Assiniboia
COOLIDGE HEARINGCARE
Aces return to diamonds for another season
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia Aces brought a lot of excitement and hometown pride to the baseball diamonds in 2024. The senior men’s team are the reigning Dunning League Baseball champions as well as the Senior Tier 3 Baseball Sask. provincial champions.
The team has set their sites on repeat success stor-
ies in their 2025 season.
Lane Jepson, team spokesperson, told the Assiniboia Times, “All of our home games will take place at 6:30 p.m. at the Assiniboia Fairgrounds on diamond #1. We look forward to what lies ahead for this year and can’t wait to get the season started.”
Eight teams make up this senior men’s baseball league and the Aces kick
off their season May 13 on the road, facing the Rockglen Rats.
The full schedule can be viewed on the league website and includes 14 games in May and June for the regular season.
Jepson also affirms that the Assiniboia Aces are excited to host Senior Provincial Championships Aug. 8-10 and encourages fans to watch their Face -
book page for all the details.
The Aces are grateful for two business sponsors who help with the team’s expenses during the season.
Assiniboia’s senior men’s baseball team has a long history in the community and fans are excited to return to the diamonds and cheer on their home town team to another season of success.
Amid the falling snow and the forecasted temperatures of spring in the air, there is the realization of promises coming to pass. The long awaited highway improvement project along First Avenue and Centre Street is set to begin. The construction signs along Highway 2 and 13 were set up April 21 announcing the length of the projected work and the date of commencement.
The continual temperature fluctuation and snowfall since the beginning of spring thaw brings to mind a humorous anecdote among Saskatchewanians about the two seasons in the province being winter and construction which is evidenced by snow on the ground and construction signs.
Tourists and local citizens will find themselves having to endure the wait times that go along with construction along a major route from point A to point B. While this may bring frustration to everyone on the road, to citizens of Assiniboia and district it will also bring a sigh of relief as the much talked about stretch of highway undergoes a major change.
In a direct quote from Mayor Schauenberg, she expressesd, “the Town of Assiniboia is excited as our five year project now becomes reality. We, along with the Government of Saskatchewan and the MInistry of Highways, anticipate the
completed resurfacing of Highways 2 and 13 along with sidewalk and streetlight replacement adding approximately an additional $8 million of infrastructure improvement in this community.”
“We thank everyone, including our business sector for their continued patience as our project gets underway, with the project to commence on April 28 and completion anticipated by October 31, 2025.”
“A long overdue major project for this community has come to fruition and our community gets a major facelift on our well travelled Centre Street,” added the Mayor.
Some information/ numbers of work being completed or has been completed already: 5.1 kms of new pavement; 37 streetlights replaced; three pedestrian crossings will now be located on Centre Street; new curb and gutter on Centre Street (Highway 2) and Highway 13; sewer lines relined as well as replacement of aged infrastructure on Centre Street; and 15 water main valves replaced on Centre Street.
Approximately $8 million dollars has added infrastructure to the community. There was a signing of a maintenance agreement with highways and the community.
More updates and information from the mayor and/or the companies involved will appear in the paper when available.
A construction sign placed on Highway 2, to remind drivers of the upcoming improvement project.
Muriel Fehr Freelance Reporter
Assiniboia and District Music Festival hosted at Alliance Church
Submitted by Karen Reisner
Assiniboia and District Music Festival
Treasurer and Scholarship Chairperson
Assiniboia and District Music Festival held its festival this year from March 25 – 28. The sessions, including piano, strings, accordian, voice and vocal, all took place at the Assiniboia Alliance Church. This event has been hosted in this wonderful facility for many years.
The festival acknowledges that they exist on traditional lands, referred to as Treaty 4 territory, the original lands of the Cree, Ojibwe, Saulteaux, Dakota, Nakota, Lakota and on the homeland of the Metis Nation.
This year we had 45 performers and many were awarded scholarships from our wonderful scholarship sponsors – businesses and organizations in the Assiniboia area. Also to put on our festival it takes many volunteers and other sponsors such as SaskLotteries, Southland Co-op and Canalta Hotel.
The Assiniboia Music Festival was established on May 1 and 2, 1933 (92 years ago). The festival had
110 entries that year. They were excited to celebrate the musical talent and hard work from all our performers.
The Adjudicator was Cherith Alexander from Weyburn. Cherith’s first festival to ever adjudicate was the Assiniboia Music Festival in 1996 – so we happily welcomed her back 29 years later. Her kindness to all performers, instructions, improvement comments and encouragement make the students feel happy about their performances and to look forward to continuing.
The Assiniboia Music Festival held their awards concert on March 30 at the Assiniboia Alliance Church with over 120 people attending. Our emcee for the evening was Teri Hanstock.
The scholarships are all chosen by the adjudicator, except the People’s Choice Award. After all the scholarship recipients performed, the scholarships were given and then our annual Ice Cream Sundae Social, sponsored by the Southland Co-op.
Provincial qualifiers
The Provincial Recommendation Qualifiers, which is from May 30 –June 2 this year in Regina. To be recommended you
Qualifications
The successful candidate will obtain, or be willing to obtain, the following: - Rural “C” Certificate as issued by the RMAA; - Certificate in Local Government Administration or equivalent; - Ability
must achieve a mark of 87 or higher.
Hannah Rhodes – recommended for Musical Theatre Ballad Contemporary – 15 years and under. Brielle Jacobs - recommended for Voice Solo Fold/Ballad – 13 years and under; Voice Solo Recital – aclassic/Modern13 years and under.
Kady Kuntz – recommended for Musical Theatre Ballad Classic/ Modern – 17 years and under; Voice Solo Recital – 17 years and under; Canada West Musical Theatre Class.
Elizabeth Deans – recommended for Canada West Musical Theatre Class – 17 years and under Byeolha Seo - recommended for Piano Recital - 13 years and under; Piano Canadian/Saskatchewan –13 years and under; Canada West Piano Class Awards and Scholarships Presented: Family Music Award by Assiniboia and District Music Festival: Plaque - to Hanstock Family – Teri, Amelia, Ian, Elise Hanstock. Assiniboia Rotary Club Scholarship - $50 for Instrumental Deserving Competitor – to Ian Hanstock.
Assiniboia Rotary Club Scholarship - $50 for Instrumental Deserving Competitor – to Amelia Hanstock. Assiniboia Kinsmen Club Scholarship - $50 for Piano Solo, Sonata/Sonatina – to Byeolha Seo. Assiniboia Kinette Club Scholarhsip $50 for Piano – Age 9 and 10 – to Lucy Quark.
Assiniboia and District Music Festival Assoc. Scholarship - $50 for String Solo – to Elise Hanstock. Mike and Ann Benoit Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo – to Maisey Rhodes. Giselle’s ShowTyme Dance Studio Scholarship $50 for Musical Theatre –to Kady Kuntz. New Moon Café Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo – to Brielle Jacobs. Nelson GM Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo – to Brielle Jacobs.
Assiniboia and District Ministerial Association Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo – Christian Music –to Hannah Rhodes. Jason and Teri Hanstock Scholarship - $50 for Speech/ Vocal – to Kady Kuntz.
Assiniboia and District Arts Council Scholarship $50 for Musical Theatre – to Brielle Jacobs.
Continued
Provincial recommendation qualifiers, from left: Hannah Rhodes, Brielle Jacobs, Kady Kuntz and Byeolha Seo.
From left: Elise Hanstock, Amelia Hanstock, Ian Hanstock, Byeolha Seo, and Lucy Quark.
From left: Hannah Rhodes, Maisey Rhodes, Kady Kuntz, Brielle Jacobs and Amelia Jacobs.
From left: Jonathan Kenes, John Delorme, Caleb Meher, Byeolha Seo, Ria Seo, and Addison Costley.
From left: Gabriella Willis, Brielle Jacobs, Isabella Jacobs, Tinely Lemieux, Makayla Willis, and Carol Marit for Assiniboia Community Choir.
Continued from Page 3
Jason and Teri Hanstock Scholarship - $50 for Deserving Piano Solo – to Rhett Pituley. Richard and Erlinda Blanchette, Global Direct Realty Inc. Scholarhsip - $50 for Sacred Music or Sacred Reading –to Micah Mehrer.
Assiniboia and District Music Festival Association Scholarship - $50 for Duet/ Ensemble – to Ezekial McCaslin and Ethan Delorme.
New Moon Café Scholarship - $50 for Duet/Ensemble Instrumental – to Justin and Jonathan Kenes.
Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels Scholarship - $50 for Piano Solo, 8 Years and under – to Jonathan Kenes.
Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapels Scholarship - $50 for Deserving Instrumental – to Ethan Delorme.
Royal Canadian Legion Scholarship - $50 for Instrumental Solo – to John Delorme. St. John’s Masonic Lodge Scholarship $50 for Piano, Age 11 – 12 – to Caleb Mehrer. Ross Funeral Chapel Scholarship - $50 for Concert Group or Recital Class – to Byeolha Seo. Ross Funeral Chapel Scholarship - $50 for Piano Recital – 13 Years and over – to Byeolha Seo.
Southland Co-op Scholarship - $50 for Piano Recital – Age 12 Years and under – to Jonathan Kenes
and Ria Seo. Southland Co-op Scholarship - $50 for Piano Baroque Music –to Byeolha Seo.
Catholic Women’s League – Margaret Lewans Memorial Scholarship $100 for Piano Solo Canadian Music – to Ria Seo.
Dorothy Reisner Memorial Scholarship 1 - $50 for Piano Solo, RCM/CC or RCM/CC Study, Age 12 years and under – to Addison Costley.
Assiniboia and District Music Festival Association Scholarship - $50 for Piano Solo – to Gabriella Willis.Assiniboia Community Choir Scholarhsip - $50 for Vocal Solo – to Brielle Jacobs.
Assiniboia and District
Ministerial Association Scholarship - $50 for Instrumental – Christian Music –to Isabella McCaslin.
Assiniboia and District Music Festival Association Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo – to Brielle Jacobs
New Moon Café Scholarship - $50 for first time competitor – to Tinley Lemieux.
Order of Eastern Star Scholarship - $100 for Piano Age 13 – 14 – to Makayla Willis.
Town of Assiniboia Scholarship - $50 for Any Chorus – Assiniboia Community Choir.
Jared and Julie Petersen Scholarship - $100 for Piano Solo, Deserving Competitor – to Anya Willis.
People’s Choice Award – chosen by the people at Musical Theatre Night at Festival $25 plus Trophy and Plaque – to Kady Kuntz.
Assiniboia Knights of Columbus Scholarship $150 for Piano Solo – 15 years and over – to Michelle Charafetdinova.
Town of Assiniboia Scholarship - $50 for Vocal Solo/ School Chorus – to Kady Kuntz. Sunset Acres Inc Scholarship $100 for Piano for Age 15 – 16 – to Kady Kuntz.
William Shurniak Memorial Scholarship - $200 for Most Deserving Piano Competitor (the recipient to be invited to perform at the Shurniak Art gallery at a
later date) – to Byeolha Seo.
Dorothy Reisner
Memorial Scholarship
“Dorothy Reisner studied Piano at the Regina Conservatory of Music. She received her ARCT and taught piano in Regina before returning to Limerick. She instilled her love of music to family members that she taught or coached.” - $100 for Piano Solo, RCM/CC or RCM/CC Study, Age 13 years and over – to Ezekial McCaslin.
The dates for the 2026 Festival were tentatively booked for March 16 –March 21. Exact date will be confirmed by the Music Festival committee once entries are registered.
Family Music Award, from left, Amelia, Ian, Elise and Teri Hanstock.
From left: Ethan Delorme, Ezekiel McCaslin, Rhett Pituley, Micah Meher, Jonathan Kenes, and Justin Kenes.
From left: Anya Willis, Kady Kuntz , Michelle Charafetdinova and Byeolha Seo.
Editorial & Opinions
EDITORIAL: BUYING CANADIAN
ALWAYS SHOULD BE CHOICE ONE
Calvin Daniels/Yorkton This Week
There is little to suggest the word of the year for 2025 will not ultimately end up being tariffs.
We live in a world where China is in a snit with Canada over this country’s tariffs on EVs from their country so of course they reacted with tariffs on things from Canada.
Then there is the ill-winds from the United States created by the hot air of petulant president Donald Trump.
The result is chaos on a massive scale in terms of trade.
One thing that has emerged out of the chaos is a renewed pride in Canada for all but a few who no doubt wish we were American.
The majority are happy to note Canada is not for sale and has zero interest in being the 51st state in a country that is in obvious disarray with threats to long held precepts emanating from the White House.
The tariffs also has many – it should be most hopefully -- Canadians reading labels in stores looking to buy Canadian.
One might suggest we should always have been doing that, but if one good things comes of tariffs it would be a concerted efforts by
Canadians to ‘buy Canadian’.
You often hear about communities extolling the virtues of ‘buying locally’ because it is supportive of neighbours. The idea of buying Canadian when possible really just expands that reasoning to a national level.
We know for example, Yorkton Council much prefers a successful local tender when available, over one from a firm from another city. It makes sense to spend at home.
Now Council is spending our tax dollars, so they do look to the lowest tender to be fiscally responsible.
That same thinking should of course extend to all levels of government – it is ultimately our money they are spending.
But given the aforementioned tariffs chaos the exception today is to focus on spending within Canada.
That is why it is disturbing that the Saskatchewan Party is still seemingly fine with contacting services from the United States –hardly a strong message of defiance to Trump’s disruptive efforts.
The opposition NDP recently brought to light two questionable contracts signed by the
government.
As a result,the provinces Minister of Health admitted extension of a contract to private company LifeLabs for at least another year. LifeLabs, which is now operated by Americanbased Quest, was awarded a $60-million contract by the Government of Saskatchewan in 2017.
And the province is outsourcing park reservations and hunting and fishing licenses to an American company.
The Sask. Party government pays RA Outdoors LTD, a Texas-based company operating as Aspira, approximately $2 million per year (Public Accounts, page 271).
Now $2 million might not seem all that significant in terms of the provincial budget, or the tariff war, but there is a principle at play here.
The governments across this nation need to be at the forefront of sending a message to Trump and supporting Canadian business, and sadly Premier Scott Moe and his party is failing on that count.
But, hopefully the rest of us are paying at least a bit more attention to buying Canadian these days.
Assiniboia Recreation ready to move outdoors for upcoming programs
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Multiple indoor recreation options in Assiniboia, over and above what was offered at the rink has now concluded for the season. Basketball and volleyball are complete, while two badminton sessions remained into the end of April. Pickleball wrapped up its last session on April 29.
No worries, as outdoor recreation in Assiniboia has plenty to offer.
Slo-pitch registration takes place May 1 in the town office.
Assiniboia’s Recreation and Wellness Manager, Steph VanDeSupe, said, “Kids are on the diamonds and ready to go. Practices started the week of Easter break and games will start
after May 1st.There are over 200 kids registered in Assiniboia Minor ball.”
Laurie Hawkins said the Assiniboia Golf Course met April 24 and will update the Assiniboia Times on what their season entails from there.
VanDeSype also notes that Better Together barbecues are set to start July 8, ongoing every Tuesday
of the summer. Shirts will go on sale June 7, when the pool opens, and will be available for purchase there.
Swimming lesson registration opens May 5 and swimmers will just have to wait six weeks, as the pool is slated to open June 7.
VanDeSype says the pool will be the centre of much activity with a pool party, the Better Together barbecues, a
The Misery Mountain Boys performing on May 9
The Misery Mountain Boys will be at the Prince of Wales Centre for a concert on Friday. May 9 at 7:30 p.m. This event is hosted by The Assiniboia and District Arts Council and the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC).
Local residents might hear the tunes of The Misery Mountain Boys drifting from behind a rotating bookcase of a 1930’s speakeasy. Harkening back to a simpler time, the MMB’s music is infused with tongue in cheek wit, playfulness, and nostalgia. With a mix of catchy originals and contemporary songs reimagined in driving swing, the band’s per -
formance delivers as both classic and fresh.
The band offers a generous variety of sweaty jazz numbers, velvety love songs, and swingin’ jump-blues, with plenty of lighthearted stories and laughs along the way. Find out more at https:// miserymountainboys. com.
Tickets to The Misery Mountain Boys are $40 in advance, $45 at the door for adults, and $10 in advance, $12 at the door for students. Tickets are available at the Shurniak Art Gallery, Prince of Wales Office, Assiniboia and District Public Library, and from Marni at 306-642-7711.
The Misery Mountain
Boys performance is part of the OSAC 2024/2025 Stars for Saskatchewan Concert Series. OSAC presents over 300 live community and school performances annually, attended by a total audience of approximately 75,000.
This is possible thanks to a dedicated network of volunteers committed to making culture an integral part of Saskatchewan community life, and vital funding from Saskatchewan Lotteries administered by SaskCulture and Canadian Heritage.
Proceeds from Saskatchewan Lotteries benefit more than 12,000 non-profit sport, culture and recreation groups
around the province. For further information, please visit https://www. assiniboiaartscouncil.ca/ and www.osac.ca.
huge Canada Day event as well as movie in the park.
Families and visitors to Assiniboia will also have benefit of the Splash Park opening June 7, and will be open the same hours as the swimming pool.
The summer playground activity will once again take place at the Kin Hut, running from July 2 – Aug. 15. Registration opens for this summer camp activity on May 5.
The Assiniboia Museum is now open from 10 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 Mondays through Fridays. Upcoming May 15 is Gayle M. Smith, author reading. Check with the museum and follow their Facebook
page for the latest news and updates on what’s on tap for mini golf and the museum. The tennis courts are another option for outdoor recreation, as is the former Civic Centre ice pad. This location offers basketball, floor hockey and a skate park for additional outdoor recreation options available. These recreation opportunities are in addition to other pop-up events and activities that come with spring and summer hosted by other groups and organizations, places and spaces. The Assiniboia Recreation Facebook page is a good resource for finding out what is on tap this spring and summer in Assiniboia.
Seed Directory
The Misery Mountan Boys will be at the Prince of Wales Centre on Friday, May 9.
Assiniboia Museum still going strong with garage sale
Muriel Fehr
Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia and District Historical Museum opened their doors for the new season on April 10. With new beginnings comes new ideas to add to some older, but successful ventures.
The garage sale is an idea that has been run before and is the kick off for the 2025 summer. As grants are applied for
and donations are sought out, income must be earmarked for certain needs depending on where the money came from so the garage sale creates a fund for those unexpected needs that crop up without warning but must be dealt with quickly.
The Museum has been open five days a week running a garage sale with many tables overflowing with goods as
well as a multitude of items under and around all the tables. It was difficult to really see what all was available on the opening day of the season earlier in April. Items were sorted and organized fairly meticulously with Christmas, Halloween, fall, kitchen, knick knacks, puzzles, movies, storage and the like grouped together in their separate areas. Every
few days some items would be moved a bit to make them noticeable.
Facebook posts alerted the public to the sale. Regular updates brought attention to certain items or other groupings. Sales were posted online to draw in customers. A steady trickle of deal seekers kept items moving off the tables.
Fast forward a few weeks and the sale has
continued to run on a daily basis Monday to Friday though closed over lunch hour. With only one person running the operation until summer students are available, the hours are fairly open with small limitations. At this point at least one hundred people have come through the doors and the multitude of items has dropped to about half what it was.
The sale will continue until the end of the month. At that time a few tables will be moved to another area. May will be a new theme with a few events. Once those events are run the garage sale will be brought to the front again to continue until everything or most everything is sold. While a lot has sold there are still a lot of interesting items available.
Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce hosts AGM with a Fireside Chat
Muriel Fehr
Freelance Report
Wyleen Hantelman, executive director, introduced the head table of chamber members present.
Shelly Dahlman, chairperson handled the busi -
The Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce annual general meeting took place at the Canalta meeting room during lunch hour on April 23. The Chamber hosted the meeting with lunch consisting of pizza and pop.
ness section of the meeting which saw the nomination and acceptance of new member Shay Hunter as well as a thank you from the chamber to Jordan Godson for his many years of dedicated service. Along with
the change of members there was the decision of the new financial reviewer to be made. The business section of the meeting took only ten minutes as the annual report for 2024 was available at each seat placement.
The fireside chat section of the meeting featured five key people including Jill Zahariuk as Early Childhood Coalition member, Sharon Schauenberg as Mayor, Steph VanDeSype as Recreation and Community Wellness manager, Laurie Stianson as Chamber of Commerce member and Wendy Zahariuk as Prince
of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre manager.
Shelly Dahlman posed a set of six questions asking each of the five to respond as the questions were presented. Topics of the queries included: what do you cherish the most about our community, In what ways can we enhance our support for one another, what upcoming events do you have planned, how do you promote or highlight our community, what’s something you take pride in that your group or organization provides, what are you most proud of? The responses provided an over-
view of what each of these groups provide in Assiniboia. It was a fast paced hour providing a lot of informative content.
A good sized group of approximately 20 attendees of business people, chamber members, press and Mossbank citizens including Town Administrator, Anna Finlay, were on hand to take in the information that was generously presented. A power point presentation of the meeting introduced “how to search and redeem chamber perks from the app” including searching perks of other locations.
2025 ASSESSMENT ROLL
RM OF HART BUTTE NO. 11
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM OF HART BUTTE NO.11 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, May 2nd, 2025 to July 2nd, 2025.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the RM OF HART BUTTE NO.11. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to RM OF HART BUTTE NO.11, Box 210, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision. Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the RM OF HART BUTTE NO.11, Box 210, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0.
A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100.00 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 2nd day of July, 2025.
Dated at Coronach, Saskatchewan this 2nd day of May, 2025. Gwen Johnston Assessor.
ATTENTION ASSINIBOIA RESIDENTS
The Town of Assiniboia Parksn’Recreation crew has been busy cleaning up our green spaces anticipating abusy spring/summerseason with ball, and allthings summer fun. We have found many areas of townthathavebeen littered with bags of dogfeces. Although we commend pet ownersfor pickingup after their dogs, the bagshave been thrown in various areas around Assiniboia on private property. On the west side,more than 12 bags were tossed along6th street west. On theEast side, bags have been tossed along 1st avenueand we havecleaned up 40-50 bags out of the hedge lineofatax title property.Inpreparation of grass trimmingand tidying atthe cemetery, several bags have been tossed into the porta-potty. Dogs are not allowed in Mount Hope Cemetery
Please find an appropriate trash receptacle toplace your pet waste. Anyone who witnesses an act such as this, is asked tocall theTown Office at 306-642-3382 so we can educate our pet owners.Thank you for your attention tothis matter.
FREE LANDFILL TIPPING
The TownofAssiniboia is offering FreeLandfilltippingfor Assiniboia Residentsfrom Saturday,May 10th to Saturday, May 17th. YOUWILL BE REQUIREDTOGET AFREE TIPPING TICKET TO VERIFY YOUR ADDRESS, available nowinthe Town Office. Residential &Commercial Waste,excludescontractor&demolition waste Landfill Hours –located West on Highway 13, North onRangeRd3015
2025 ASSESSMENT ROLL RM OF HAPPY VALLEY NO. 10
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM OF HAPPY VALLEY NO.10 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m on the following days: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday, May 2nd, 2025 to July 2nd, 2025.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the RM OF HAPPY VALLEY NO.10, Box 39, Big Beaver, SK S0H 0G0.
All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to RM OF HAPPY VALLEY NO.10, Box 39, Big Beaver SK S0H 0G0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision and must be submitted by the 2nd day of July, 2025. Dated at Big Beaver Saskatchewan this 2nd day of May, 2025. Gwen Johnston Assessor.
8:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m. |1:00 p.m. –4:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday Pleasereport to theoperatorbefore dumping, ensure allloads arecovered to prevent littering.
Please note: Compost &Branches are acceptedyear-round forfreeatthe Landfill. There will be no curbside compost pick-up by the Town.
Did youknow?
CompostBin &RainBarrelrebatepolicy#835 is away for residents to aid in the reductionofpressure on theAssiniboia WaterTreatment Plantand the Assiniboia Landfill. This rebate programoffer is available to residentsofAssiniboia who:1.Have autility account in good standing, 2. Purchase arain barrel and/orcompostbin fromalocal retailer,3.Provide proof of installationattheir residence. For more information, visit our website at https://www.assiniboia.net/town_office/rebate_program_compost_bin_rain_barrel_.html or stop by theTownOffice!!
Approximately 20 people attended the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce AGM.
Benefitsofvolunteering
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Four ideas for spoiling a new mom
Has someone close to you recently welcomed a new baby? Do you want to offer a helping hand to simplify her daily life? This Mother’s Day, take meaningful action to give her a much-needed break. Here are four winning ideas.
Do household chores: The first few weeks with a newborn can be intense. Keeping up with household tasks can quickly become daunting for a new mom, whether she has a partner or not. Offer to do the laundry, wash the dishes, take out the garbage, mow the lawn, clean the pool or wash the car.
Deliver ready-to-eat meals: Surprise her with a homemade meal or takeout from her favourite spot. Nutritious frozen meals that just need to be reheated in the oven
or microwave are especially practical and much appreciated during this busy time.
Offer to take care of her other children: If she has older kids who need attention, spend quality time with them. You could play at home or take them on an outing to the park, movie theatre or amusement centre. If she has a dog, offer to take it for a walk to help burn off some energy.
Babysit: If she’s comfortable being away from her newborn, offer to babysit for an hour or two. This will give her a chance to recharge—she might enjoy a relaxing bath, a trip to the hairdresser or dinner with a friend. When you offer to help, make sure you respect the mom’s schedule. Avoid waking up the baby or interrupting a feeding, and refrain from calling or showing up unannounced. Instead, send her a text or email so she can respond when it’s convenient for her.
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GreekPizza Grilled chicken,Feta cheese, Black Olives,Green Pepper, Red Onion, Tomatoes andMozzarella Cheese. Donair Choice of Beef or Chicken, FreshRed Onion,Tomato, Mozzarella Cheesewith OutVer yOwn
CLASSIC CHOICES
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Plan a memorable Mother’s Day getaway
This Mother’s Day, create lasting memories by spending quality one-on-one time with your mom.
Sure, enjoying a meal together is a wonderful idea, but why not take it a step further this year by treating her to a memorable getaway?
Start by discussing her preferences. Does your mom love shopping for bargains, tasting wines or craft beers, exploring art galleries, visiting historical landmarks or recharging in the great outdoors? Choose a destination that aligns with her passions—and appeals to you, too, of course.
Browse tourism websites and work together to plan the details of your adventure, including transportation, activities and accommodations. This planning process will build excitement and make the experience even more enjoyable.
Whether you choose to speed-run a bustling city, relax at a mountain spa or go on a culinary journey to tantalize your taste buds, you’ll share some great moments of togetherness.
Make memories: call your darling mom today and invite her to plan a getaway with you!
“Mom, I’m taking you out for breakfast!”
This Mother’s Day, treat your mom to a gourmet breakfast experience at a local restaurant. Restaurants that serve breakfast have it all. As soon as you walk in, you’ll be greeted with the mouthwatering smell of crispy bacon, freshly brewed coffee, fried golden potatoes and toasted bread. The friendly and inviting atmosphere creates the perfect setting for enjoying quality time together and hav ing those heartfelt conversations without the rush. Dishes for every taste: Specialized breakfast restaurants offer an incredible selection to satisfy every craving. If your mom has a sweet tooth, she’ll love the chocolate crepes, French toast drizzled with maple syrup or crispy waffles topped with fruit. If she’s more of a savoury person, she can try the eggs Benedict, a breakfast skillet or a hearty omelette. You can often even find dishes that combine both sweet and savoury options. Your mother is sure to find the breakfast of her dreams!
Take advantage of the many restaurants in your area that serve scrumptious breakfasts. Why not explore a new spot you haven’t tried yet? You might discover a hidden gem and create a wonderful new tradition with your mom.
Deadline: Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. the week
Les Coldwell
Les Coldwell, of Assiniboia, SK , passed away April 5, 2025 with family at his side Les was born July 9th, 1936 at the family farm near Readlyn He attended Hepworth School until he completed grade 8 He then worked for various farmers in the area In 1955, he started work at the R M Lake of the Rivers as patrol operator, a job he held for 19 years, the last four as foreman In 1966, Les married Bev BeBeau In 1972 son Jason was born followed by Darren in 1973 In 1975 daughter Dana arrived and his family was complete He worked hard but always had time for the family He attended their hockey games, ball games and dance recitals In 1974 he began work at the local John Deere as Service Manager where he worked for 25 years After that retirement he worked at many jobs, farming for Larry Dennison, working at PMP for Clayton Pinfold carpentry for Leeville Construction and Les Wyber farming with Kelly and Jaret Ruzicka His last job was back at the R M Lake of the Rivers mowing ditches His final retirement was in 2019 Les enjoyed gardening curling playing cards ice fishing and watching hockey He belonged to the Elks Club minor hockey and served 10 years as chairman of the Assiniboia Housing Authority Les loved his family He was a proud father grandfather and uncle He was so happy when grandson Mason was born followed by Jordyn and Kaden He enjoyed the visits but especially when they came to stay in the summer without parents Darren and Karla He was so proud of his children and grandchildren s accomplishments Les was a very positive person living life to the fullest He always said he loved to work and that is what he did but still finding time for family friends and ice fishing Les is survived by his wife Beverley (nee BeBeau) sons Jason Darren (Karla); daughter Dana Coldwell; grandchildren Mason Jordyn Kaden Also surviving are sister Christine Stasiuk and brother Lloyd sisters-in-law Noella Coldwell Jean Coldwell Yvonne Fender Joan BeBeau Denyce Coldwell Verna BeBeau Brenda (Mike) Newman and brotherin-law Blaine (Yvonne) BeBeau numerous nieces and nephews Predeceased by his parents Hannah and George sisters Edith (Mel) Noess brothers Clarence and Don sister Evelyn (Lorne) Domes brother-in-law Mike Stasiuk and sister-in-law Geraldine Coldwell brothers-in-law Wilfrid (Kay) BeBeau Harvey Fender LaVerne BeBeau Edmund Coldwell and Brian BeBeau parentsin-law Marion and Buck BeBeau nephews Mike BeBeau and Nolan Coldwell Celebration of Les life was held Friday April 11 2025 in St George s Roman Catholic Church Assiniboia SK with nephew The Reverend Jeffery BeBeau officiating Meaningful tributes delivered by great-nephews Mitch Pituley and Nick Pituley and a family power point presentation Interment at Mount Hope Cemetery Donations in Memory of Les may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society (April Daffodil Campaign) Fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Coldwell family may be shared at www rossfuneralservice com Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service Assiniboia SK
Lynn Wood Lynn Wood (Frostad) born Oct 14, 1948, passed away peacefully at home with her sons at her side March 15, 2025 She was 76 years old She is survived by her sons, Scott (Angie), Chad (Denise), her grandchildren, Keely Madden and Parker She is also survived by her sisters, Janice Giroux, Velda Alleyne (Fernando), Nadine Corman (Guy) , her brother Tim Frostad and a dear cousin, Tamie LeBlanc Lynn was predeceased by her husband Barclay, father Lawrence Frostad, mother Millie Bishop, brother Glenn and stepfather Keith Bishop Lynn and Barclay raised two amazing sons who were very loving, kind and respectful to their parents Lynn had a very special bond with her oldest granddaughter Keely and cherished Madden and Parker as well She was so proud of them and their individual accomplishments You could see from her posts on Facebook that she was a very proud Grandma She was also a special Auntie to her nieces and nephews and the best sister you could hope to have Lynn was born and raised in Assiniboia and kept ties with lifelong friends She kept up with many of her friends through Facebook She had an amazing memory for people and events Lynn married Barclay Wood in January 1967 when she was 18 and he was 23 Their son Scott was born in 1968 and Chad in 1969 They took up residence in Assiniboia for a short while, then moved to Estevan and in Sept 1969 they moved to Victoria, B C Lynn began working at the Gorge Road Health Centre in long term care Later, one of her managers, seeing Lynn s potential, hired her to go with her to Oak Bay Lodge as Director of Activities at a beautiful senior care facility The residents loved Lynn, her caring ways, personalized approach and sense of humour Lynn stayed there til her retirement Lynn retired early to care for her husband who had been diagnosed with IPF and required a lung transplant They moved to Abbotsford, BC to be close to the Vancouver hospital Lynn showed incredible strength and resiliency in caring for Barclay Barclay passed away in April 2009 They had been married 42 years Lynn moved to Mission, BC in 2015 and had many travel adventures with Carlos Avila and friends from Mission She enjoyed ATVing, going to Mexico and Portugal among other trips Lynn was diagnosed with IPF a few years ago and more recently with lung cancer She tackled these diagnoses with grace and courage Saskatchewan Prairie girls are a hardy group No complaining, no self pity, just live the best life you can given what is happening Lynn was sweet and kind and tough as nails She loved us all unconditionally It was her wish to spend the end of the her life in her own home and that wish was fulfilled by her loving and caring sons, Scott and Chad and incredible daughter in law, Angie They enabled the rest of the family to be able to Facetime with Lynn a few days before she passed to tell her how much she meant to all of us and how much we loved her Thanks to family and friends for your love and support Please go to YouTube to see a memorial video called Our Beautiful Lynn
NOW HIRING:
Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy (road) construction camp this upcoming season. Current location is near Saskatoon, SK. Must have valid driver’s license and safe food handling ticket. Experience in camp setting with 20-30 crew, an asset. Send resume with two work references to: Bryden Construction, Box 100, Aroborfield, SK., S0E 0A0 brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844 www.bryden constructionand transport.ca
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS
Motor scrapers, dozers, excavators, rock trucks, packers; wide range of machines.
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FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc Star City, SK Birch Rose Acres Ltd 306-921-9942
Lots of work all season. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca
Exercise can help improve flexibility, muscle strength
Exercise is a necessary component of good health. Physical activity improves overall well-being and can help a person maintain a healthy weight and bone density while improving flexibility and muscle strength. It is essential that people continue to exercise into their golden years for all of the reasons mentioned above. But adults age 50 and older should find an exercise program that won’t make them vulnerable to injury. Poor form when exercising can be worse for an older adult than doing no exercise at all, particularly for people with arthritis or preexisting conditions. Older adults can keep these tips in mind to avoid exerciserelated injuries.
• Ease into exercise: It is good to be excited about exercise, but jumping in too quickly or intensely is a recipe for injury. This is particularly true in strength training when lifting too much weight can cause injuries like rotator cuff tears and lower back strain.
• Stretch regularly: as a body ages, tendons get thicker and less elastic. Stretching can help counter this occurrence and help prevent injuries at age 50 or older. Stretching should be done slowly and smoothly.
• Incorporate strength training: It is important to prevent muscle atrophy as you age, and strength training can help achieve that. Strength training also helps reduce the risk of bone fractures later in life.
However, start slowly at minimal weight and low repetitions, and gradually build up. Try 10 to 12 repetitions to start.
• Warm up before exercise: use slow motions to acclimate the body to exercise. As opposed to stretching, a warm-up involves movements similar to the workout but done more slowly. Warm-ups increase blood flow to the muscles and improve tissue elasticity.
• Vary your activities: Switch up the exercises you do so that you focus on different muscle groups on alternating days. This can help avoid overuse injuries that occur from working one part of the body or muscle group too frequently.
Volunteering can keep seniors active, engaged
Volunteering is a great way for seniors to stay active and engaged with their community. It can also provide physical, mental and social benefits.
Physical benefits: Many volunteer opportunities involve physical activity, such as serving meals at a soup kitchen, walking dogs at a shelter or gardening at a community park. This can help seniors maintain their physical fitness and reduce their risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Mental benefits: Volunteering can help keep seniors mentally active and engaged. It can provide them with a sense of purpose and meaning, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Volunteering can also help improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of developing dementia.
Social benefits: Volunteering is a great way for seniors to meet new people and socialize with others. It can help them build friendships and feel connected to their community. Volunteering can also help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
How to get involved: If you’re a senior looking for a way to get involved, there are a few resources that can help you find opportunities: a volunteer centre, a library or community centre, a place of worship or online volunteer matching websites.
Wood River Search and Rescue to celebrate 25 years of their work
Sherri Solomk Freelance Reporter
Tracey LaGasse, a member of Wood River Search and Rescue since inception, says the organization will celebrate their 25th anniversary during the May 2 weekend.
LaGasse told the Assiniboia Times, “On Oct. 31 1999, Tony Reid from Moose Jaw drowned at Thomson Lake during a sudden freak storm. The Gravelbourg and Lafleche Fire Departments did well to search the shoreline at the time, but they decided they wanted more training. This resulted in contacting SARSAV (Search and Rescue Saskatchewan Association of Volunteers). The first training locally was held on April 1 of 2000.”
The 25th anniversary will be celebrated in conjunction with the end of Missing Persons Week in Saskatchewan, observed during April 27 to May3.
“Marking this milestone will include two events. First, we are holding a vir-
tual Window Display contest which is open to anyone interested, regardless of location. We encourage individuals and businesses to decorate a window or create a display marking Missing Persons Week with a focus on this year’s theme, ‘Coming Together For Hope,’ and email the photo to woodriversar@gmail.com by Saturday, May 3,” added the local Search and Rescue group.
The Wood River SAR will also hold a public Walk of Remembrance in the Town of Gravelbourg on May 4, starting at the Fire Hall at noon and progressing to the courthouse and back.
“We invite everyone to attend and walk with us. For those with missing family members, we encourage them to bring pictures of their loved ones and carry on the walk - and to dress in orange (our SAR colour provincially).
Anniversary cake will follow,” said LaGasse.
Initially the membership was mostly from the two
fire departments, but recognizing those two groups have huge training commitments already, they had to eventually back away.
“We did go through some years with very low membership, but have been steadily increasing in strength over the last 15 years,” affirms LaGasse.
Wood River Search and Rescue includes 25 dedicated volunteers
This southern Saskatchewan Search and Rescue Operation currently includes 25 members. Of this 25, two are search managers, two are team leaders, there are 19 searchers and two members in training. Members say this chapter is always evolving
The Wood River SAR notes that with recreation areas becoming busier each year, many visitors are unaware of specific hazards of some of these areas, such as lack of cell coverage or GPD signal, or vast distances between isolated communities, along with the lack of access to services.
“The primary area that we serve is southwest and south-central Saskatchewan; however, some of the searches become province-wide callouts and that means we could be called to go anywhere in the province. We also have an agreement for mutual aid with SAR groups in southeast Alberta,” said LaGasse.
The Wood River SAR has members in Gull Lake, Shaunavon, Admiral, Ponteix, Vanguard, Melaval, Shamrock, Coderre, Moose Jaw, Regina, and Gravelbourg. “We are very spread out, but when you consider that we are one of the few chapters in the southern part of the province, we do our best to ensure getting response to where it is needed.”
Training is important
The SAR organization says they usually run one searcher course per year, which includes a minimum of 40 hours of in-class and field study. In addition to that session, they try to run a short training session every month to six weeks throughout the year, except during summer and the Christmas season. “There are also a number of provincial training courses that our members participate in, such as Incident Command System (ICS) and Disaster Assistance Response Training (DART).”
Wood River SAR was
activated on three searches in 2024, and the group said they are thankful they have not had any calls yet in 2025. “2022 was, by far, our busiest year with eight callouts, including three in our immediate area. It was also our busiest year provincially, with many largescale searches including the search for a 5- year- old on Red Earth Cree Nation.”
LaGasse added their organization is funded entirely through donations and fundraising efforts.
“We have put monies to use for training and equipment, including a command post trailer and Ranger to utilize on searches. A portion of our newest equipment, including PPE, compasses, and GPS units, were purchased through our provincial organization thanks to us being awarded funds from the Proceeds of Crime fund. We also have a GPS-enabled communications equipment that was provided to SARSAV by a federal SAR New Initiatives Fund (NIF) grant,” said LaGasse.
“One of the things that brings many of us joy is what we do when we are not active on calloutsthat is, prevention work. This is done through the AdventureSmart suite of programs designed to get people informed before they undertake outdoor activities. Paying attention
to the three Ts - Trip Planning, Training, and Taking the Essentials - can mean the difference between an unplanned camping trip and a search emergency. Our most popular program is the Hug-a-Tree and Survive program, and several of our members are extremely active as Outdoor Educators for these programs.”
Anyone who would like to know more about Search and Rescue, including how to get involved, can contact this southern Sask. search and rescue group via their Facebook page or by emailing woodriversar@gmail. com. Further questions can be addressed with the chapter’s President, Corey Ellis, at 306-472-7994
A founder of this organization, LaGasse said her SAR has been rewarding, even amidst its challenges.
“Searching, while physically exhausting and mentally taxing, also has its rewards - particularly when our teams (who all join together when called upon by our Authorities Having Jurisdiction) can bring someone home. Of course, the best possible outcome - that the subject is found alive and well - is always our greatest hope and reward. Even bringing closure to the loved ones of someone who is located deceased is a success in and of itself,’ said LaGasse.
Members of the Wood River Search and Rescue plan to celebrate their 25th anniversary.