Assiniboia
Assiniboia Chamber luncheon highlights Community Futures opportunity
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
A recent Chamber sponsored luncheon featured speaker, Crystal Payant, speaking on behalf of Community Futures, South Central Services, and the opportunities they have to offer.
This branch offers the following services free of charge:
• Assistance with the development of business plans, marketing plans, feasibility studies and cash flow forecasting.
• Business counseling to new and existing businesses.
• Assistance with bookkeeping and payroll inquiries.
Community Futures, in partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan, offeres a digital growth academy provided by MNP. Training sessions are to help increase business owners’ skills and knowledge of everything related to the online world, increase online presence and therefore become more competitive. Participants will get expert insights on cybersecurity, E-commerce, website management, social media and much more.
Payant is the Business Development Officer and says their website, www. cfsask.ca/southcentral , has great information regarding loans offered, advice and support to rural southcentral Sask.
“Our presentation held on November 13 outlined the services we offer, business planning and loan strategies,” added Payant.
Just under three dozen people were in attendance at the luncheon event to hear opportunities available through the CF program.
“Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce was the driving force for the event as they
coordinated the date, did an excellent job promoting, and hosting, and as a result, it was very successful.”
Payant feels that one of the biggest highlights of the Assiniboia Chamber in the community is that they are great at bringing businesses together.
“I think the Chamber is an excellent resource to all business owners.”
While the Business Development Officer for CF says she has worked with ACC on a smaller scale, they are collaborating on plans for more with the Chamber and the Town of Assiniboia.
Annual Rotary Carol Festival upcoming
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
In their 66th year of service club duties to the Town of Assiniboia, the Rotary Club is finalizing plans for their annual Rotary Community Carol Festival.
The annual Carol Festival is held with food and cash donations given to the local Food Bank.
Long time club member Leanne Pituley said, “The annual Rotary Community Carol Festival will be held December 7 at Messiah Lu-
theran Church. The event includes a lot of beautiful Christmas music from both individuals and choir. Admission is $5 or equivalent in food donations to be donated to the Food Bank.”
Pituley also acknowledged that this is the 66th annual Christmas Carol Festival as during COVID-19, their group organized an online concert where performers videoed their musical performance. It was then done through Facebook, still sharing the
gift of music with others.
The Assiniboia Rotary Club has offered much to the community that included, but not limited to, donations towards dugouts at the baseball diamonds, funded gazebos at Centennial Park and the Assiniboia Museum as well as playground equipment donation at Centennial Park. There have been numerous other benefits realized in Assiniboia due to the commitment of the Rotary service club.
Alas, even with a re -
markable list, in a previous Assiniboia Times story, outlining community involvement, donations and service, it seems that the club’s exposure is sometimes not enough and they still feel that the community doesn’t always know who the Rotary Club is. For anyone wanting more information on Rotary, call Jeanne Woolhouse, the current Rotary Club president, at 306-6424096. New members are always welcome.
Chamber of Commerce president, Shelly Dahlman, (at left) and guest speaker Crystal Payant attended a recent luncheon.
Wild Prairie Cattle officially launches store in Assiniboia
Kaitlynn Nordal Freelance Reporter
Growing up on a farm, Michelle Duckworth, owner of Wild Prairie Cattle Co. in Assiniboia, would not have imagined she would end up designing clothes for a living, but fate had other plans.
Duckworth grew up on a large cattle ranch and has been surrounded by animals her whole life.
“I joined 4-H when I was six and instantly fell in love with cattle,” said Duckworth. “I enjoyed showing them, but my real passion has always been in nutrition, health, and managing feeder cattle.”
“I also always had a love of horses and riding, starting with barrel racing, then moving to roping. Although these days my riding time is limited to just moving cows.”
Duckworth started drawing and designing clothing in 2020 and began selling her designs on Etsy. What became Wild Prairie Cattle Co. officially launched online in 2023.
“I had started to notice a real gap in rural Saskatchewan for people who wanted authentic western wear but didn’t have local options,” said Duckworth. “Like many others, I was tired of having to travel to the city just to find things that I loved. I started small, just marketing on social media and going to weekend markets, slowly adding more products.”
Duckworth’s designs were agriculture-based, focused mainly on cattle and ranch life.
“My designs were simple, authentic, and inspired by the western industry,” said Duckworth.
Duckworth has recently decided to focus on working with other artists.
“I’m a perfectionist, and I could easily spend 40 hours or more perfecting a single design. Between working full-time, volunteering, ranching, and running a business, something had to give. I realized I’d rather spend my free time with my family and animals than glued to my iPad,” said Duckworth.
“There are so many talented artists out there who are far more gifted than I am, so it made sense to shift my focus to supporting them instead,” continued
Duckworth Duckworth. “Partnering with other artists allows me to offer fresh designs while supporting people whose talent deserves to be seen. It also keeps the store’s collections diverse and full of personality.”
All of these collaborations are different.
Sometimes Duckworth purchases ready-made designs, and other times Duckworth brings an idea to the artist, and they make it their own.
“I look for artists whose work aligns with the Wild Prairie style. Authentic, western, and high quality. Reliability and consistency are key when selling in retail,” said Duckworth.
“I’ve been lucky to find amazing Canadian creators who fit that perfectly and have helped the store grow,” continued Duckworth.
Duckworth has been focusing on expanding their lineup of major western brands.
“Wrangler, STS Ranchwear, Cinch, Cruel Denim, and Sullivan Supply, just to name a few that are already in store or on the way. There’s a lot more coming, but for now, some things have to stay top secret,” said Duckworth.
Duckworth is grateful for all the support she has received since starting her business.
“My long-term goal is to grow Wild Prairie Cattle Co into the go-to western store, something like Lammie’s or Cowtown, but right here in small town, rural Saskatchewan,” said Duckworth.
“We’re growing steadily and sustainably, and I’m proud of that,” continued Duckworth. “Wild Prairie has always been inspired by the lifestyle I live and the industry I love. It has always been, and will always be, authentically western.”
Seniors Centre Without Walls launches campaign to keep vulnerable seniors in their homes
Aaron Walker SaskToday.ca
With a key federal funding program scheduled to conclude in December, Seniors Centre Without Walls (SCWW) is seeking community support to continue providing at-home services for more than 200 vulnerable seniors in Moose Jaw.
The nonprofit claims to have delivered more than 11,000 services to local seniors since 2024 and is now launching its 200 Sponsors for 200 Seniors –Circle of Care campaign to help maintain its at-home assistance program.
The initiative invites residents and businesses to sponsor a senior each month, helping offset the costs of services on which many low-income clients depend.
The transition follows the conclusion of the federal “Age Well at Home” initiative, which subsidized wages for outreach staff who provide housekeeping, personal care, transportation to medical appointments, yard care, companionship, and regular safety check-ins.
With that funding ending Dec. 31, SCWW said it will be unable to continue offering these supports at free or low-cost rates.
“Many of these at-risk seniors will be left alone or at risk of early institutionalization and increased hospital visits if this program closes,” said program manager Ronda Wedhorn. “Many of the seniors we help live alone, have a very low income, have no family close by, and some no supports of any kind.”
Wedhorn said the program is often the only point of connection some seniors have each week.
“We help seniors get to medical appointments, the cancer clinic in Regina,
and keep their homes clean and them safe. These seniors desperately want to remain in their own homes but without support, many will be forced out of their homes and end up in institutional care prematurely.”
SCWW plans to continue operating under a fee-forservice model based on income, but Wedhorn said it simply won’t work for the seniors who need help most.
“Our program plans to continue operating under a fee-for-service model based on seniors’ income and this may work for those that are higher income, but that approach leaves out those who need the help the most — lower income (and) at-risk seniors who simply cannot afford to pay.”
To bridge the gap, SCWW is asking residents and businesses to join the “Circle of Care” by sponsoring a senior for $35 a
month, or “any amount that fits your budget.” The goal is to raise $84,000, ensuring low-income seniors can continue receiving the at-home support that keeps them safe, healthy, and connected.
She added that sponsorship is “more than just a donation,” noting that “when you sponsor a senior, you’re helping your neighbour or someone who is totally alone with no one else to turn to.”
Wedhorn shared examples of seniors whose lives depend on the program. One man, David, was undergoing cancer treatments in Regina but couldn’t afford transportation. Without SCWW rides, he would have had to cancel life-saving appointments.
Another senior, Sue, spent two days on the floor after a fall with no one checking in — an outcome
that’s now preventable with regular visits.
“Without the support of the community, (SCWW) will not be able to provide these services for free or low cost to those (who) need it most,” Wedhorn said. “When funding runs out at the end of December, these seniors will be left without care and may lose the ability to stay in their homes.”
SCWW is also seeking volunteers able to commit one or two hours a month to housecleaning or companionship visits. To sponsor a senior, volunteer, or learn more, call 306-6922242, email MJSSRonda@ gmail.com, or visit SCWW. ca. E-transfers can be sent to SCWWInvoices@hotmail.com, with “200 for 200” in the message line.
To inquire in person, visit the SCWW Town ‘N’
SCWW co-ordinator Akku Panchal points to the centre’s signage at its Town ‘N’ Country Mall office. The non-profit organization recently launched its “200 Sponsors for 200 Seniors” campaign, as federal funding concludes on Wednesday, December 31.
Michelle
Chantel Hannah, Owner
336 Centre St Assiniboia
Editorial & Opinions
WORD WISDOM: CARDINAL
Byline John Kreutzwieser
SaskToday.ca
Cardinal is a word that is used in various disciplines, from religion to mathematics to ornithology.
Cardinal has been used to describe important clergymen of the Roman Catholic Church since the 12th century. Cardinals, appointed by the Pope, assist him as ecclesiastical officials and members of The College of Cardinals.
In the 1800s cardinal was used to designate numbers (such as 1,2,3,4 etc.) that are used in simple counting and that indicate how many elements there are in an assemblage. This contrasts with ordinal numbers which indicate the place (as first, second, third, fourth) of an item in an ordered sequence.
Cardinals also label a crested finch of the eastern United States, Canada,
Mexico, and Belize. Both sexes of this bird have black faces and heavy red bills. The male is nearly completely red in colour. The bird Cardinalis cardinalis was so named as its red colour resembled a Roman Catholic cardinal’s robes.
As an adjective cardinal refers to things of basic or main importance, implying that the outcomes depend on them. In psychology, a cardinal rule is often cited as “what is rewarded is repeated, and what is punished is avoided”. In fitness, a cardinal rule is that protein is necessary for maintaining muscle.
Cardinal is derived from the Latin noun, cardo, meaning hinge, and the Latin adjective cardinalis, signifying serving as a hinge. From the literal meaning, a jointed or flexible device on which a door, lid, or other swinging part turns, cardo evolved to refer to a turning point, axis, or principal line.
Cardinals in the Roman Catholic Church are the Pope’s principal advisors and are the only ones who can elect a new Pope in a conclave. Governance of church activities around the world hinge on the decisions and support of this group of men so they were named cardinalis.
Essential, fundamental, vital, and cardinal all mean so important as to be indispensable.
Essential implies belonging to the very nature of a thing and therefore being incapable of removal without destroying the thing itself or its character. Conflict between actors is essential in a drama. Funny situations are essential for comedies.
Fundamental applies to something that is a foundation without which an entire system or complex would collapse. The principles of thermodynamics are based on fundamental laws.
Vital means something that is necessary to a thing’s continued existence or operation. The rebels surrounded the capital and cut it off from vital supplies.
Cardinal suggests something on
which an outcome turns or depends. A cardinal rule in buying a house is to never skip the home inspection.
In religious circles there are cardinal sins that are the root of all others sins and lead to spiritual death. In Christianity the cardinal sins are pride, greed, wrath, envy, lust, gluttony, and sloth. The cardinal prohibitions of Judaism are idolatry, sexual misconduct, and murder. These sins violate the core principles of a just and holy society. In Islam, attributing partners with Allah, unjustly taking an innocent life, and sorcery are cardinal sins.
Cardinal numbers are the chief numbers in counting things. Like cardinal numbers we have cardinal directions. North, south, east, and west are considered the primary and most important directions upon which all other directions and locations are based.
Cardinals, the birds and the religious variety, are rarely seen in Moose Jaw. But keep your eyes keen, as you never know when one may show up.
Columnist John Kreutzwieser loves to research words and writes this weekly Word Wisdom column for SaskToday/MooseJawToday.
Submitted by
Jeannette Mynett Traditional Anglican
‘Jesus, our King’
As we approach the time of preparing for Christmas, a number of honour Christ, our true King. We have spent time this summer and fall reflecting on growing in knowing our Lord and living in obedience to Him. Thus it is fitting that we take time to reflect on Jesus as our true King who rules our lives for our good and rejoice in living for Him as our King and Saviour.
When Jesus was crucified, Pilate had a sign put on the Cross, saying, Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews. This sign was in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. This was to make sure everyone could read it. Pilate unintentionally expressed an important truth about how total Jesus’s kingship really is. He is not just King of the Jews. He is the anointed messiah and king of all.
The fact that the sign was in the languages it was tells us how great is that kingship. The sign was in Hebrew. Jesus is king of our religious and faith life. We are to put Him first in all our life, giving Him the prayer and worship that is His due. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me.” We need to give Him time in prayer, in worship with the Church, to put Him first in our lives. Let
us take time to make Him the Lord of our lives in all things.
The sign was in Latin. Jesus should be the Lord of our national, community, and public life. I remember seeing a play in which people in a coffee shop were discussing how true peace could be achieved.
The play ended when all in the coffee shop affirmed that the way to peace was in the Ten Commandments. The play ended with everyone in the coffee shop reciting those commandments. Have you ever thought what life would be like if our society was shaped by the Ten Commandments and the Beatitudes?
The sign was in Greek. Jesus is King of our cultural, educational, and social life. We need Christ to inform us as to what is good and beautiful in what we do for education, the arts, in writing, in the media. It would be good if we could be rid of the trash that appears in the media and other means of communication, if Christ and His teachings were truly the standard of our cultural life, with what is done really reflected all that is true, good, and beautiful as shown in Him.
As we celebrate Christ our true King, let us see how we can make Him the Lord in our religious life, in the public life of our community, nation, and world, in our homes, and in all aspects of life in society.
Peter Kvarnstrom
Cardinalis was used to designate the main north-south street in Roman cities.
Journey of a champion from ACHS to U of S and the Vanier Cup
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The road to the Vanier Cup is paved with determination for a former Assiniboia’s Rocket football player, who was part of University of Saskatchewan roster for the Vanier Cup Assiniboia Composite High School alumnus, Derek Beaubien, is in his fifth and final year with the U of Sa Huskies football team. He competed in his home province for the coveted Vanier Cup.
Pure coincidence that after the Saskatchewan Roughriders defeated Montreal to win the Grey Cup, the U of S. Huskies took on a Montreal team, during the tournament held in Saskatchewan, at Mosaic Stadium.
The Beaubien family farms south of Assiniboia and as the oldest, and only boy, Derek is surrounded by sisters. Beaubien developed a love of football early in his life.
Tammy Beaubien, mom of the Huskies offensive-lineman, said they got to experience the excitement of the Mitchell Bowl victory in Saskatoon.
“Derek was part of the ACHS Rockets high school team, Team Saskatchewan and played in the Moose Jaw Minor Football league. This is
his fifth and final year with the Huskies. He was a part of Team Canada, playing in the international event at both U16 and U18, played in Arlington, Texas, home of the Cowboys,” said Tammy When ACHS Rockets alumnus, Beaubien, took the field in his home province for the 60th installment of the Vanier Cup, he and his teammates did so with a purpose. This was the third Vanier Cup appearance in five years, having fallen short in 2021 and 2022.
The Huskies took to the field and faced the RSEQ victor, Montreal Carabins.
The Beaubiens said they were all at their son’s games this season. Derek, in his first year as a starter played in the 2021 Vanier Cup with the Huskies as well as in 2022, and now again in his final year of eligibility in 2025.
Saskatchewan football fans are riding high with the continued success stories in 2025 including the Saskatoon Hilltops Championship win as well as the Riders recently capturing the Grey Cup.
“Football family is huge, everyone knows everybody from early years to university to professional,” says Tammy.
Tammy said it was awesome this year to have
the privilege of playing finals in Saskatchewan as other years they have experienced layovers and cancellations to get out east for these championship games.
The family was excited to experience a big stage at home. There is a proud Sask. football legacy with Daniel Wiebe U of S to CF, Logan Ferland with Grey Cup winning Riders who was once a Hilltop player and Mitchell Picton with the Rams.
“There is some interesting history with players for sure as in 2021,
the Huskies played the U-Tech Bowl against the Carabins., who was coached by famed Montreal Alouettes quarterback, Anthony Calvillo.
The Huskies were coached by Scott Flory, who was once an O-Lineman who protected Calvillo,” added Beubien.
The Assiniboia Times reached out to former Rockets coaches but were unable to get a response for press deadline.
Tammy added, “Fifth year players are strong in academics, ensuring an education can help them
in their future once football aspirations are over. There is not always longevity for a CFL player.”
Derrek Beaubien is in the Edwards School of Business and will convocate in 2026.
Asked how this mom felt going to her son’s last game, she responded, “It was sad, but what a way to end it. We can’t ask for anything better. Derek has played football since he was ten years old and he has put everything he had into the sport.”
Huskies player, Beaubien, has been
coaching with a spring league team in Saskatoon and he will be involved again.
“Derek loves the game and he loves what you get out of it, the connection, the memories. There is no other sport like it as people of all sizes play together. Nobody stands out, it is a true team sport,” added the proud player’s mom.
The big game might be over but the memories, lessons learned, and experiences realized by both the player, and his family, will remain forever.
FOR SALE BY TENDER
AGER TENDER
Located in RM of POPLAR VALLEY No 12
SE06-01-30W2; NE06-01-30W2 SW08-01-30W2; SW05-01-30W2 NW05-1-30W2; PT SW06-01-30W2
- 350 acres broke - Fenced and cross fenced, 2 spring fed dugouts. One with water line to trough.
Prospective bidders must rely on their own research of property to determine acreage, condition, improvements and assessments. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Please submit a certified cheque for 5% of the bid with tender, payable to Lewans & Ford in Trust and in a clearly marked envelope “AGER TENDER”.
Tenders will close December 5, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
To view or for details call (306)642-8344
Forward Tenders to: LEWANS & FORD Barrister & Solicitors Box 759, 228 Centre Street Assiniboia SK SOH 0B0 306-642-4520 or fax: 306-642-5777 office@lewansford.ca
Derek Beaubien
Our Town
Pitch perfect, Assiniboia Community Choir keeps singing
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reproter
Forty-one years and still going strong. Assiniboia’s Community Choir harmonizes for the holidays and special occasions.
A heartfelt arrangement of Flanders Fields was performed by the ACC at the community Remembrance Day Service November 11.
The choral group added beautiful music to the poignant service as part of the annual Lights of Love tribute in the community. Singing, ‘Light a Candle’, composed by Carol Marit, added some peaceful mo-
ments to the ceremony.
The ‘O Holy Night’ Nativity Exhibit at the Catholic Church, to be held on Friday, November 28, will be blessed with beautiful music as the choir will be carolling there.
The choir will perform at the Wood River Ministerial Advent Festival in Gravelbourg on November 30, with the theme of “Bring Us Hope’, an anthem for Advent and Calypso Christmas.
The choir is also a feature at the upcoming Rotary Community Carol Festival, which will take
place on December 7.
ACC is also part of the Blue Christmas event, sponsored and hosted by Piche Hawkins Grondin Funeral Chapel, taking place on December 8.
Communities like Assiniboia that have a community choir benefit from stronger social connections as people come for a sense of belonging and provides a way for people to connect across different generations and cultures.
Without their performances at any of these activities, the event would feel entirely different.
The choral group added beautiful music to the poignant service as part of the annual Lights of Love tribute in the community.
Christmas is not far away when local residents see the Holiday Train roll through their area once again. This year the Christmas train is scheduled to be in Moose Jaw on Saturday, December 20 from 8 to 8:30 p.m. at the Train Station. Everyone is welcome to join the fun and entertainment.
to enter afl oa ti nt his yea r’sp ar ade ,c all 306-642-5553 or email: assiniboiadistrictchamber.sk@gmail.com.
CALLING ALL ORGANIZATIONS–EVENTS CALENDAR
Calling all organizations to submit their events to our onlinecalendar The TownofAssiniboia’seasyonline events calendar isavailableonour website just hit the‘SUBMIT MYEVENT’button. We ha ve grea t Hometown Holiday Season
PROPERTY TAXES
Reminderletters forproperty taxes have been sent out early November.Please check yourbalance as outstanding balances are subject to interest charges, 1% onDec. 1st and10% on Jan.1st. Call us today for balanceupdates or pop in to see us to save some money! Did youknow? If payingvia online banking, it takes 2-3business days to get tothe Town Office. Therefore, if you don’t allowenough timefor the funds to be received in office, you may be subject to the automatic interest charge.
COUNCIL MEETINGS: Council meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. in CouncilChambers in the Asaskan Complex, 131 3rd Ave West. NextCouncil meeting of 2025 will be December 16, 2025. Ever yoneiswelcome to attend. events in ourAmazing Assiniboia,let us help you get the word out! It’safree& easy way to advertise and agreat placefor our residents/visitors to seethe upcoming holiday seasons events. Events get posted on social media too!
Senior Rebels win one, loss one
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Assiniboia Senior Rebels incurred a 3-1 loss, during a road game against the Coronach Meerchatns on November 21. Riley Malone netted the lone Assiniboia goal.
The Senior Rebels earned more penalties than goals in the Friday night loss, taking two each in the first and third periods.
Travis Marit continues to lead the league in scoring with ten goals, as of November 21. Of note, eight of those goals were scored in a single game. He also has
six assists rounding up to 16 points in the Notekeu Hockey League stats.
The Assiniboia Sr. Rebels hosted Radville on November 22 in an 8 p.m. game which resulted in a decided 8-1 victory.
Eric Duran scored with two goals in the first, one of them being on the power play, along with Marit’s single put the senior squad up 3-1 after the first. Zack Evans, assisted by Brayden Delorme made it 4-1 after two complete periods.
Duran picked up a hat trick, scoring his third goal in the third period. Dakota
Helland, Zacj Evans and Travis Marit sealed the deal with three more goals for an 8-1 final. Landon Marit took the only two Assiniboia penalties, both assessed in the third.
The Assiniboia Sr. Rebels have a dozen days off until their next game, at home, when they take on the Rouleau Ramblers on Friday, December 5.
The December schedule wraps up the first half of the regular season and will include five more games with the last December game hosted at home on December 20.
By Gillian Couttie
The end of the volleyball season marks the end of the fall sports schedule for the Assiniboia Compositie High school and the beginning of the winter
sports season.
ACHS basketball and curling programs have been putting plans into motion for their seasons.
Both the senior boys’ and girls’ basketball teams will compete in the MJHSAA (Moose Jaw High School Athletics Association) junior varsity leagues, with the season beginning on December 1.
Additionally, there will be a bantam boys team, which will compete in the rural league this year.
Unfortunately, there were not enough Grade 9 girls to form our own Rocket team, so the girls form a co-op team with stu-
Rocket Report: volleyball season has ended, basketball starts
dents from the AES.
Both AES and ACHS are looking for basketball referees. If you are interested in officiating or are interested in becoming an official for any basketball games this season, please contact Matthew Lothian at lothian.matthew@prairiesouth.ca for more information.
ACHS is also busy with the start of the curling season, coming up with an amazing student turnout of about 19 curlers this year.
ACHS Drama Club is also looking forward to preparing for the 2026 spring production, with more news coming soon.
Gwendolyn Meshka of Assiniboia was the lucky winner of a blanket from the Assiniboia Curling Club raffle. She also managed to get all the autographs from every team during the national curling tournament.
Photo courtesy of Blair Heagy
Freelance Reporter
Established in 1950 by John Moneo, Peak Dot Ranch has become a growing family agriculture business.
Grandsons, Carson, Clay and Mia now run the southern Saskatchewan cattle ranch. They operate the family ranch in honor and in the legacy of their grandparents, as well as parents Terry and Barbara.
Peak Dot Ranch includes owner, Carson Moneo, and his wife Lana along with their two boys, Koen and Riley. Koen and his wife Gen, have two children, Brixlyn and Knoxton. Riley and his wife Danielle also have two children, Ozzy and Motley.
Clay Moneo is also an owner and he and his wife Shannon have children, Matt, Madison, Merit, Mavryk, and Olivia.
Mia Turner, sister to Carson and Clay is also an owner along with her hus-
band Scott have one son, Luke.
The Moneos told the Assiniboia Times, “This is eight years of drought for our area. We have had to source outside feed. Drought has been very hard on pastures, not leaving cows in the same pasture for as long as we would normally; supplementing with mineral because there is not much nutrition in the grass, feeding earlier in the year instead of utilizing pastures, so we are going through more feed.”
There are benefits to family cattle ranches such as a lifestyle connected to nature and self-sufficiency. Ranchers develop a wide range of skills from equipment maintenance to animal care. Past interviews with families that farm and ranch together say their work creates lasting memories while working together with pride and purpose.
It also provides for income and family employment. Family agriculture operations also provide families with a strong work ethic, valuable life skills and a source of highquality food.
The Moneo family says they hold two bull/female sales a year on their ranch. One is always the first Saturday in December, this year falling on December 6. The second sale runs the first Wednesday in April, and this year will fall on April. 1.
“We also have an online frozen genetic sale (embryos and semen) December 23 and 25.”
The family operation also plants approximately 3000 acres of crop, but strictly for feed for their cattle. Peak Dot Ranch consists of 13,000 acres which includes several thousand acres of tame hay.
Their website outlines this Moneo Ranch is made up of rolling hills
and trees with creeks that run all winter, and spring fed dams. There is a lot of history in the Wood Mountain Hills, and it is one of the elite ranching areas in the province.
Wood Mountain ranch country refers to the area around the village of Wood Mountain, Sask., a region known for its rich history of ranching, the Wood Mountain Stampede (Canada’s oldest continuous rodeo), and the Wood Mountain Rodeo Ranch Museum. The area is characterized by its rolling hills and native grasslands near the Montana border.
Wood Mountain has a deep history in ranching, dating as far back as the 1880’s when the North West Mounted Police and Metis people were among the first to raise livestock. This legacy is celebrated in the Wood Mountain Rodeo Ranch Museum which features exhibits
on local ranching families and world champion cowboys and cowgirls.
Peak Dot Ranch has been in the purebred business for over 60 years, and is now one of the larger purebred Angus outfits in Canada, with approximately 1000 cows, states their Ag business website.
In fact, this ranch’s website, offers much detail about the cattle they care for, the herd they continue to build and the family behind Peak Dot Ranch story.
Clay and Carson Moneo were featured on the cover of an October 2009 issue of Saskatchewan Beef magazine, with a story that leads back to when their land was fist homesteaded by the Moneos in 1911, in the heart of short grass cattle country.
While Clay handles the marketing, advertising, website updates and sales catalogs, it’s Carson who fields the bulk of the cus -
tomer calls.
Mia and her husband Scott are an integral part of the growth of the ranch. In 2014, the website also showcased that Peak Dot Ranch was named Saskatchewan Angus Purebred Breeder of the Year award.
The company website says, “The name Peak Dot Ranch was taken from a Zane Grey novel that Grandpa John Moneo had read.”
Local residents can read all about this family ranch on their website at www.peakdotranch.com/ and on Facebook.
Their upcoming bull sale program states, “You can count on the cattle you purchase from this fourthgeneration family-owned ranching operation. After 60 years of doing business with ranchers and commercial cattlemen and women, we have earned the reputation we are proud of.”
Sherri Solomko
Agribition 2025 will entertain visitors near and far
Ryan Young SaskAgToday.com
The wait is over. The Canadian Western Agribition officially kicked off at the REAL District in Regina on Monday.
Every inch of the venue is being utilized for competitions, sales, and a trade show which is held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.
CEO of Agribition Shaun Kindopp encourages people to make the most of their experience.
“You can expect Agribition to be bigger and better than it’s ever been,” said Kindopp. “We really being able to bring people together Christmas, so we’re ready to open the doors to the world and we’re ready to open the doors to the province and ready to have some fun.”
Admission to the Canadian Western Agribition is $30 for adults, $8 for youth between the ages of 13 and 17, and children 12 and under get in for free. A three-day show pass is $65.
While the doors will be open early in the morning, the start of Agribition was officially marked with the burning of the brand on
Monday. Lieutenant Governor Bernadette McIntyre had the honours this year. Also on hand for the brand burning was Federal Agriculture Minister Heath McDonald, Provincial Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison, and members of the Agribition Executive. Kevin Hursh said Agribition is really where city meets country.
“Agribition is really aimed at the general public with the education component and certainly a very large entertainment component,” Hursh said. “But also good for some of the smaller agricultural commodities - sheep, goats, llamas, draft horses - the things that don’t get as much attention on a regular basis, and of course still the basis is a huge pure-bred cattle show.”
Canadian Western Agribition (CWA), is a premier event renowned for being the best beef show on the continent and the largest livestock show in Canada. Highlights include Bison Day, the Maple Leaf Finals Rodeo, the crowning of the new Miss Rodeo Agribition, and much more.
CEO of Agribition Shaun Kindopp spoke to reporters after the burning of the brand at Canadian Western Agribition on Monday morning. Ryan Young/SaskAgToday.ca
Many government initiatives to help producers reduce waste
Producers face significant challenges in managing residual materials and waste. Fortunately, an increasing number of government and regional initiatives are making the task easier. Here’s a look at how producers can effectively recycle their agricultural waste.
Establishing a clear legal framework
In recent years, many governments have launched programs that require companies to take back the waste from specific products, such as feed bags and pesticide containers. Farmers can use collection points to safely dispose of these materials, or they may be able to request a convenient pick-up service. These strategies effectively reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Saskatchewan farmers can reduce waste through provincial programs that facilitate recycling and responsible disposal of agricultural materials like grain bags and containers, with organizations like Cleanfarms providing collection sites and programs. The province’s regulations, funding, and various waste
management initiatives are key to these efforts.
Recycling programs
Grain bags: The recycling program for agricultural plastics is the first of its kind in Canada. The program provides a responsible option for producers to return plastic grain bags for recycling. All sellers of grain bags are required to join an approved program.
The grain bag recycling program is operated by Cleanfarms on behalf of regulated retailers and manufacturers. Cleanfarms, an organization committed to environmental responsibility through the proper management of agricultural waste, currently operates 47 collection sites around the province.
Over 10 million kilograms of grain bags have been recycled from the Saskatchewan through this program since 2018.
Cleanfarms’ grain bag recycling program is an approved Product Stewardship Program under The Agricultural Packaging Product Waste Stewardship Regulation. This means that grain bag first sellers
can meet their regulatory obligations through membership in Cleanfarms.
Pesticide and fertilizer containers: Cleanfarms runs a voluntary program for empty pesticide, fertilizer, and seed treatment containers. Farmers can drop them off for free at participating retail locations across the province.
Baler twine: Clean -
farms has launched pilot programs for baler twine to establish a permanent recycling program and create a circular economy for this waste.
Other agricultural plastics: Pilot programs are also underway or are being developed to collect other agricultural plastics, such as seed, pesticide, and inoculant bags.
Constantly innovating
The old adage is a fact: one person’s trash is another person’s treasure. This rings especially true in agriculture. When producers intelligently manage their waste, they can supply raw materials to companies that recycle these materials. For instance, manufacturers can transform plastic
pesticide containers into agricultural drains. Additionally, used sugar bush tubing can be convert ed into vehicle mats. Farmers can now maximize their recycling efforts with the help of government and regional incentives. By choosing local products, it can support these innovative en trepreneurs in the community.
Canada
Cereals Canada issues annual report on 2025 wheat crop
Doug Falconer SaskAgToday.com
Cereals Canada has released its annual New Wheat Crop Report to global and domestic customers of Canadian wheat.
The report includes information on milling performance, flour/semolina quality, and end-product functionality for Canada’s 2025 wheat crop.
“Canada has produced another high-quality wheat crop with good functionality,” said Dean Dias, chief executive officer. “Canada is on track to be the third largest wheat exporter and number one exporter of high quality, high-protein wheat. In 2025-2026, 27.4 million tonnes of wheat is expected to reach over eighty international markets, with the quality and protein content that customers expect.”
In 2025, Canadian farmers grew 36.6 million tonnes of wheat, with the majority graded No. 1
or No. 2. Despite variable growing conditions across the Prairies, timely midsummer rains supported higher-than-average yields. In Eastern Canada, favourable weather throughout the growing season for winter wheat resulted in strong yields and good quality.
Wheat protein content was comparable to average. All wheat classes from the 2025 crop had good test weights and higher than average thousand kernel weights were seen for all Western composites.
This year, as part of its New Crop outreach, Cereals Canada will engage with twenty-nine countries that purchased $8.2 billion of Canadian wheat in 2024.
Cereals Canada generated the data for the 2025 New Wheat Crop Report through its Harvest Assessment Program, which has traditionally only included wheat from Western Canada.
COLTON KNUDSEN
•25BRED HEIFERS • BRED BLACKANGUS
• BULL OUT JUN. 1—PULLEDAUG.1
ARGUES
•10HEREFORD COWS
• BREDRED BULL • BULLOUT JUN. 20
• 5-6 YEAROLDS DOUG MANN GENETICS
ARCHIE GANNON
•20COWS
WANDAOLFERT
•10RED COWS • BRED RED
TRAVIS &TREVORPLATT
•50BRED HEIFERS • BRED BLACK KNOSSBROS
•110 COWS •BRED BLACKANGUS
• BULLOUT JUL. 6— 90 DAYEXPOSURE.
MJM RANCH
•24BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
• BRED BLACK BULL • JUN. 18 TURN OUT
DWIGHTDOKKEN
•36BLACK AND BFFBRED HEIFERS
• BULL OUT JUN. 18
GREG MCKYTIAK
•65BLACK HEIFERS • BRED RED ANGUS
• BULL OUT JUN. 26 —PULLEDAUG.18
CLINT DESJARDINS
•50BLACKS• BULL OUT JUN. 20
• APR. 5CALVING
TY HICKS
•85BLACK BREDHEIFERS• BRED TO VALLEY BLOSSOM HEIFER BULLS • BULLOUT JUN. 20 —PULLED AUG.5
KEVINTAYLOR
• 40 REDBREDHEIFERS• BRED REDANGUS JR BULL W/ LOW BIRTH WEIGHT •BULL OUT JUN. 15 •FULL HEALTH PROGRAM SOUTHWEST FARMS
•25BREDHEIFERS
JCA FARMS
•10 BLACKBRED HEIFERS • BRED BERGER BLACK •65REDS
• BRED COLBURN’S RED •20BBF • BRED HANLEN RED
NEHAMAS
•6BREDHEIFERS
DEREK DEORKSON
•40BBF • BRED BLACK ANGUSFROM HICKORYCORNER FARMS
TREVOR BROOM
•20 BRED COWS &HEIFERS• BRED BLACK ANGUS
• JUL. 3TURNOUT
BARR WATER BARRYOLNEY
•75BBF HEIFERS• BRED BLACK LOW BIRTHWEIGHT HEIFER BULLS FROM BURNETTANGUS •45DAY EXPOSURE BULL OUT JUN. 25
TREVORMCBURNEY
•MAJOR HERDREDUCTION •100 BLACKCOWS
• BRED BLACK ANGUS
• 5-8YEARCOWS LOADEDW/PERFORMANCE • BULLS OUT JUN.5
AMOS ABRAHAMSON
•40BREDHEIFERS• BRED BLACK ANGUSHAWKEY BULL
• BULLS OUT JUN. 12
LA REATARANCH
•70 BLACKCOWS BREDBLACK ANGUS
• Bulls out June 25
• Dispersal
is on track to be the third largest wheat exporter and the top exporter of high-quality, highprotein wheat.
SPRA awards Mossbank for Farm It Forward project
Sherri
Solomko
Freelance Reporter
Assistant Administrator for Mossbank, Taysha Siebeneich, sent in a nomination for the community fundraiser known as Farm it Forward.
It was recently announced that the Sask. Parks and Recreation Association chose this project for the Community Wellbeing Award, recognizing the incredible work these efforts are for the community.
The Sask. Recreation awards pay tribute to the
outstanding contributions of individuals, organizations, communities and agencies who have improved the quality of life for others through recreation in the province.
Award winners came from across the province and their impact ensures everyone has an opportunity to be active, get involved in programs, enjoy parks and connect with nature.
The release, outlining the finalists, said the winners receive recognition from SPRA across social
media, in e-newsletters, the organizations’ website and more. As well, a promotional video celebrates the award recipient. Winners receive a custom-made trophy showcasing their achievement.
Last but not least, award winners get a legacy incentive in the amount of $1,000 to be applied towards a local recreational program or service of their choosing.
The winning announcement for Mossbank’s project stated,
“Farm it Forward is a charitable non-profit organization established in 2017 and run by local farmers with a mission to enhance community wellbeing through collective efforts.”
Over the years, Farm it Forward has donated over $300,000 to Mossbank and surrounding areas, funding essential facility repairs, supporting educational, cultural and recreational initiatives like the creation of a three-km walking trail in Mossbank to
encourage active living.
SPRA said that the Community Wellbeing Award honours any community or municipality in Saskatchewan for an innovative and successful recreation or parks project that contributed to improved social wellbeing for people in their community. This can include anything from addressing inclusion and access to environmental stewardship, supporting active living policies and programs, or improving tourism or economic de-
velopment opportunities.
In May of 2025, the Assiniboia Times included a story on this community project, which also won a BASF $5,000 grant, earmarked for the rink’s ice plant. The Farm It Forward initiative was one of 12 winners to receive the grant. For more information, check out this organization’s Facebook page as they have helped with other important aspects of Mossbank, including a July 2024 mower purchase for the golf course.
Leading with Purpose in Rural Saskatchewan
WE ARE HIRING
General Manager
Are you avalues driven leader who believes in thepower of community? Lafleche Credit Union is seeking anew General Manager to lead our team into the future.
With branches in Lafleche andGlentworthand over $100 Million in assets, we’re proud to be Saskatchewan’sfirst rural credit union –deeply rooted in agriculture, cooperationand local decision-making
If you’re ready to help shape thefutureof ourcredit union while honouring its legacy, we’d love to hear from you.
Learn more about this opportunitybyvisiting www.laflechecu.com
Pest Control Contractor
The Rural Municipality of Willow Bunch No. 42 is seeking proposals for the appointed contract position of Weed Inspector for 2026. The successful proponent will provide ser vices as requested by the RM to control vegetation including regulated weeds (noxious and prohibited noxious weeds), nuisance weeds and other weeds of agronomic concern on lands owned, leased or managed by the RM or on private lands to enforce the Weed Control Act.
Tender submissions will include supply and application of pre-approved herbicides.
Proposals marked "Weed Management RFP-01-2026" will be received until 3:00 P.M. (Saskatchewan time)
Monday, Februar y 9th, 2026 at the office of The Rural Municipality of Willow Bunch No. 42 Box 220, Willow Bunch, SK, S0H 4K0. Proposals will be accepted by email or fax (306) 473-2312
E-mail proposals to: Rmwb42@gmail.com
Please contact the RM for a detailed description of the role of weed inspector.
Foreman – R.M. of Willow Bunch No. 42
The RM of Willow Bunch No. 42 is currently recruiting for a Foreman. This position will commence on January 15th, 2026.
Summary of Position:
The Town of Coronach is hiring an experienced pest control contractor on an as-needed-basis The successful contractor will be responsible for identifying, trapping and removing various types of pests, as well as preventing future infestations
Job responsibilities:
• Inspect town buildings town owned lands and the Transfer Site for unwanted pest activity and infestation as the need arises
• Identify types of insects, animals, and other pests
• Measure dimensions of the area needing treatment
• Recommend pest treatment and elimination options
• Set traps and baits in the infested area and surrounding areas
• Mix pesticides according to area and pest type requirements
• Physically remove trapped or exterminated pests
• Prevent pest re-entry with materials like wood and foam
• Follow basic health and safety procedures, including use of PPE
• Follow pesticide safety instructions and procedures
• Accurately log billable hours on an invoice and provide to the Town Office for payment Qualifications and skills:
• High school diploma or GED
• Pest control license that allows work within the Province of Saskatchewan
• 2+ years of experience as a pest control contractor (preferred)
• Valid driver’s license clean driving record and reliable transportation
• Knowledge of pest control tools and techniques
• Able to perform basic mathematical calculations and convert measurements
• Able to sit, stand, kneel, crawl, and climb ladders in all weather conditions
• Strong planning, organizational, multi-tasking, and problem-solving skills
• Great attention to detail, positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Able to follow written and verbal instructions
• Able to safely apply pesticides and chemicals
• General Liability Insurance
• Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB) Coverage Compensation:
• Based on experience
Please submit a resume with references and your proposed hourly wage to: Town of Coronach, PO Box 90, Coronach, SK S0H 0Z0 or email to office@townofcoronach.ca.
Submissions must be postmarked or dropped off at the Town Office by December 3, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
Dated this 18th day of November 2025 Renea Paridaen Chief Administrative Officer Town of Coronach Box 90, Coronach, SK S0H0Z0
This position is a year-round, full time position. The Foreman is directly responsible to the council through the Reeve and/or Administrator. It is expected that the foreman will be a working foreman with a good working knowledge of municipal/road construction and maintenance experience. The successful applicant must have a valid 1A drivers license, be competent in running large construction equipment, self-motivated with a strong work ethic prepared to perform various duties as required or assigned by the RM Council with strong values rooted in health and safety. Must be willing to receive training and acquire certificates as needed.
Hours of work in construction season start at 6:30 a.m.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to;
• responsible for maintenance personnel (organizing and preparing work schedules and tasks),
• providing monthly reports to council,
• equipment maintenance and record keeping (equipment logs/maintenance forms),
• inventory
• operator supervision,
• maintaining proper occupational health and safety requirements,
• operation of all equipment
• ensure proper training of employees on all equipment
• maintaining all road networks in the RM (grading, surveying, snow removal, culvert and sign installation)
• responsible for hygienic H2O systems
• any and all duties as assigned by Council or as provided in the RM of Willow Bunch No. 42 policy book
• road construction
Qualifications:
• Proven experience within a supervisory role
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to stay organized when dealing with competing priorities and deadlines
• Ability to motivate and engage others to complete shared set of goals
• Strong interpersonal skills with an ability to engage with individuals across all levels of the organization
• Previous experience operating heavy duty equipment including (but not limited to): graders, payloaders, gravel trucks and scrapers (considered an asset)
• Previous experience with road construction is considered an asset
• First aid and CPR, Pesticide Applicator’s License, Ground Disturbance, Powered Mobile Equipment training and WHMIS certificates are required or candidate must be willing to obtain the same (please provide copies of all certifications)
RM of Willow Bunch will offer a competitive wage based on previous work experience. Employment includes benefits package and enrollment in the Municipal Employees Pension Plan. Applications will be received until January 7th, 2026 via email to rmwb42@gmail.com
Or by mail to
RM of Willow Bunch No. 42, Box 220, Willow Bunch, SK S0H 4K0
Or by fax to 306-473-2312
Or in person to #16 Edouard Beaupre St., Willow Bunch, SK
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
The Richardson Pioneer Southern Rebels Jr. Hockey Club were looking to stay on track during a two road game held on November 22 and 23
The team headed north, playing two games from the other Prairie Junior Hockey League Division. The Rebels were in Carrot River against the Outback November 22, and they found themselves down a goal after the first period.
While Easton Lee got an early quick goal in the second, it was quickly matched by another opposition goal. Evan Fisher tied up the game at the tenminute mark of the second.
One could say the Rebels exploded in the second period adding three more
goals to the two on the board. Samuel Tolsma, Evan Fisher and Evhan Allan Allen all hit the scoreboard before the conclusion of the second period, making for a 5-2 score heading to the third.
A sixth goal was scored by Zach Svenson, a power play goal, with league stats showing as his eighth of the season.
No Rebels penalties were taken in the first, with only a single penalty assessed in the second demonstrating the resolve of the Assiniboia team to stay relatively disciplined. In the third period two minor Rebels penalties followed. The final score had the Rebels doubling Carrot River 6-3.
The team announced November 18 that goaltender Keane Reid, was called
up by the SJHL’s Weyburn Red Wings, but he was back to play with the team on the road weekend.
Tthe Rebels took on the Prince Albert Timberjaks in an afternoon game on November 23. The Rebels incurred the loss, 6-2, after being outshot 46-39.
The Timberjaks scored three goals in the first, putting the Rebels in a deficit right off the bat. Nikolas Smolinski was the lone goal scorer in the second on a power play, but Assiniboia still had work to do to come back. The Rebels only other goal from Dylan Hallborg, with assists from Easton Lee and Kaden Costley in the third. Prince Albert secured the win by scoring three goals.
Assiniboia took six of 16 penalties in the game.
The team’s Facebook page said, “Back south we go with one win for the books, and a few too many injuries.”
The remainder of November regular season includes a November 27 game at home, playing Regina Silver Foxes and on the road November 29 in Regina, playing Extreme Hockey Regina Capitals. December is a little quieter of a schedule for the last half of the regular season, which includes six games.
In the team’s continued community engagement actions, the RPSR took part in some school skating November 19 with Mrs. McNutt’s class. Players helped tie skates as well as took part in races and obstacle courses with students, enlisting smiles all around.
Léo Rivard
It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of Léo Rivard of Fir Mountain, who left us peacefully on November 13, 2025, with his family by his side He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Thérèse (née Lagassé); his children Johanne (Chuck) Rust, Mariette (Ross) Anderson, Hélène (Randy) Ray, Maurice Rivard, Adèle (Will) Breen, and René (Kara) Rivard; his grandchildren Dominique (Chris) Kimberly (Michael) Nathan (Jessie) Mark (Kristen) Thomas (Emma) Meghan Isaac and Violet; and his greatgrandchildren Daxton Landry, Ronan, Vincent, Oliver, and Theo He is also survived by his sisters Cécile Gauthier, Juliette Nogue, and by his sister-in-law Lorraine (Heiberg) Rivard Léo was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Léonie Rivard; his sisters Alice (Slim) Hill, Antoinette (Omer) Lagassé, Thérèse (Réné) Lorrain, Gisèle (Émile) Lagassé; his brother Jules; and his brothers-in-law Raymond Gauthier, Louis Nogue, and Émile Lagassé Born on February 23, 1934, on the family farm near Fir Mountain, Saskatchewan, Léo was the fourth child of Arthur and Léonie (née Dumont) He attended Plessis School near the farm and fondly remembered riding his horse Nellie to school On October 3 1963 Léo married the love of his life Thérèse Lagassé They began their married life on the Rivard homestead In 1966 on the drive home from church Léo stopped and pointed to a small knoll marked only by a fivegallon pail He told Thérèse “This is where we will build our home ” From that simple marker grew the home where they would raise their six children Johanne, Mariette, Hélène, Maurice, Adèle, and René and build a life filled with purpose, warmth, and community Dedicated to providing for his family, Léo worked tirelessly throughout his life As grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived, he welcomed each one with joy, eager to play, share stories, and create memories In 2019, Léo and Thérèse moved to Assiniboia, making their new home at East Side Court After a short illness, Léo was admitted to Assiniboia Long-Term Care in November 2023, where his gentle spirit quickly won the hearts of the staff who soon felt like family to him Léo was a lifelong learner and creator, blessed with an engineer s mind He was so proud to complete his GED and then to further complete the requirements of the Electrical program at SIAST in 1994 He loved to tinker invent and build especially farm-related creations and was constantly learning new skills He shared his knowledge freely Skilled in countless trades he was a ham radio operator air-conditioning technician and an electrician He was also fondly known for his beloved orange truck A man of great adaptability and resourcefulness, Léo met life’s changes with determination and a steady spirit He was a quiet but strong community leader, involved in the church, the Knights of Columbus, and many volunteer efforts Humble and generous, he was someone neighbours could always count on for help strong, steady, and dependable Léo’s warm sense of humour was one of his trademarks He loved a good dad joke both hearing them and telling them A devoted Catholic, he carried a deep faith that shaped his life and guided his actions Above all, he cherished his family He was a wealth of knowledge, a gifted storyteller, and a man who always placed the needs of others before his own Léo will be deeply missed but forever loved There is a time to work and a time to rest His time for rest has come The family would like to thank the staff at the Assiniboia Hospital Longterm Care for all you did for Dad A Funeral Mass will be held for Léo on December 6 2025 at 1:00 p m at St Georges Catholic Church in Assiniboia Online condolences can be shared at www pichehawkinsfuneralchapels ca
Laurie Turgeon Laurie was born September 5 1941 in Kincaid Saskatchewan He was the fifth of six children born to Ernie and Jean Turgeon who established the Turgeon family farm three miles north of Kincaid On November 12, 1966, Laurie married Trudy Goodmanson of Girvin, Saskatchewan At the time they resided in Regina and shortly thereafter moved to Kincaid where they raised three children Michelle Yvonne and Ed Laurie a journeyman carpenter built homes proudly under the name Turgeon Construction He took over the family farm on the passing of his father and continued to farm the land that was so dear to him until the land was sold in 2013 His craftsmanship as a carpenter is seen in so many homes and businesses throughout the south Each of his buildings were like his children and he became like family to those he worked for We question if he ever did retire from construction work To say he was a proud and dedicated member of the Kincaid community would be an understatement He proudly served as councillor, board member and volunteer for his community, church, service clubs and sports associations Laurie was an athlete in every sense of the word; hockey baseball curling and later in life golf He enjoyed life in southern Saskatchewan especially spending quiet summer days at Thomson Lake He was always there with a helping hand or strong shoulder happy to sit for a coffee or a beer and tell a story with a twinkle in his eye He cherished his extended family and would light up during visits from his brothers and then later in life by nieces and nephews who always brought out stories and laughter His family will work to honour his legacy of hardwork, commitment to family and community, strong faith and love Laurie was loved and will be missed by many Laurie was predeceased by his parents, Ernie and Jean Turgeon; parentsin-law, Arni and Jane Goodmanson; brothers, Don, Ray, Gerald and half-brother Cliff (Ruth) Harker; brothers-in-law Jim Corcoran, André Brodeur, Bill Goodmanson and Ken Goodmanson; sister-in-law Nancy Redekop; nephews Brian Corcoran and Blaine Miller; and niece Susan Redekop Laurie is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Trudy; daughter, Michelle (Paul), grandson Mark (Megan) and great grandson Griffin, granddaughter Kelsey; daughter Yvonne (Dan); son Ed (Chandra) and grandchildren Adam and Isla; sister Eréne (Jim����) (André����) Corcoran; brother Dennis (Yvonne) Turgeon; sisters-in-laws Helen (Don����) Turgeon Elmerene (Ray����) Turgeon Rolande (Gerald����) Turgeon Doreen (Bill����) Goodmanson Joyce (Russell) Keeler brother-in-law Ron (Connie) Goodmanson; and several nieces and nephews Laurie’s family would like to recognize and give thanks to the staff of St Joseph’s Hospital in Gravelbourg, especially Drs Pillay and Ramlakhan for their friendship and care over the years Thanks to the Cardiac Unit of the Regina General Hospital and their staff for their special care of Laurie in his last weeks A special thanks to his niece Carmela who has been a Godsend to Trudy and neighbour Carmen who was always there when needed The family is also thankful and appreciative of the staff at Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapel for their kindness and support Funeral Mass was celebrated at Ste Radegonde Roman Catholic Church, Lafleche, Saskatchewan, on Friday November 21 2025 at 1:00 p m Lunch and fellowship followed in the Parish Hall Interment took place at Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery Meyronne Saskatchewan Memorial donations in Laurie’s memory may be given to the Heart and Stroke Foundation PO Box 460 Station K Toronto Ontario M4P 9Z9
Evelyn Clara Karasinski (Anderson) November 13, 1927 to October 31, 2025 With sadness but gratitude for a long life, well-lived, the family of Evelyn Clara Karasinski (Anderson) wishes to announce the peaceful passing of their cherished Mother Grandmother and Great-Grandmother and Aunt on October 31st 2025 Evelyn was born on the family farm just west of Congress, Saskatchewan on November 13, 1927 to Carl and Inga Anderson She joined older brothers Clarence and Herman and was joined by baby sister Lois six years later Evelyn loved music, beautiful clothes and looking after others as a nurse,
school functions bridal showers Rebekah meetings church and just about any public function where music was needed Evelyn graduated as a Registered Nurse from Moose Jaw Union Hospital in 1950 where she made lifelong friends She spent ten years travelling with friends and stopping in different communities across western Canada to work at the local hospital They would jump in the car and take a drive If they liked the look of a town they would check in with the Matron at the hospital and usually start working almost immediately She returned to Assiniboia around 1960 and did some public health nursing She recalled driving unmarked gravel roads in the south and one time accidentally ending up on the U S side of the border with a trunk full of vaccines and a mild panic In August 1960 Evelyn married Ralph James Karasinski, a teacher in Limerick, and they were fortunate to celebrate more than 50 years of marriage They settled on the family farm just east of town Joan Grant and Valerie followed and their family was complete Evelyn was a devoted Mother and was blessed with a close-knit family and good friends Evelyn was predeceased by her parents Carl and Inga Anderson brothers Clarence and Herman sister Lois cherished grandson Evan Humen and sonin-law Ron Petrie She leaves to mourn her children and grandchildren; Joan (Spencer, Stuart and Courtney, Hayley, Andrew and great grandchildren Grayson and Harper) Grant (Daryl and Ross) Valerie and Randy Humen, nieces and nephews The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to staff at the Assiniboia Villa and Ross Payant Nursing home for their compassionate care over the last several years The funeral service will be at the Limerick United Church on November 12, 2025 at 1:30 pm with Reverand Janelle Shaw officiating Fellowship to follow at the Limerick Hall Memorial donations are not necessary but those wishing may choose Limerick United Church or a charity important to them
Saving for retirement can be very important
Saving for retirement is vital to long-term financial health and can ensure retired adults have enough money to meet both their needs and wants.
Insufficient retirement savings can compromise retirees’ ability to pay medical expenses and make it hard for them to realize dreams often associated with retirement, such as travel and additional leisure activities. The good news about saving for retirement is there are many ways for those who have fallen behind to catch up.
• Find ways to cut back on spending: One of the more direct yet still challenging ways to begin catching up on retirement savings is to cut back on
spending in other areas so funds can be redirected to retirement accounts and additional investments. Start by documenting daily, weekly and monthly expenses in a spending journal. Examine your spending habits to identify areas where cutbacks can be made so funds can be redirected to retirement contributions.
• Take advantage of alternative income streams: Another direct way to begin saving more for retirement is to begin earning more. That’s easier said than done, but it’s not necessarily impossible to find a side hustle to generate sufficient funds for retirement. Earnings from a second job like a freelancing gig can be set aside exclusively for retirement contributions.
Spiritual growth can help bring inner peace
In retirement, many older adults find themselves drawn to deeper questions of purpose, connection and peace. Beyond traditional, organized religion, many seniors are exploring broader spiritual practices to support their emotional well-being. Here’s an overview.
Mindfulness and meditation: These practices have gained popularity among seniors as powerful tools to reduce stress, improve mental clarity and help with emotional balance. Focusing on the present moment can also support better sleep, encourage emotional resilience and offer relief from anxiety and chronic pain.
Nature as a spiritual path: The natural world has long been a source of inspiration and healing. Many older adults are rediscovering the therapeutic power of the outdoors, engaging in activities such as gardening, forest walks or simply sitting by a lake or in a park. These experiences can nourish the spirit and foster a renewed sense of purpose.
Alternative spiritual practices: Many older adults are exploring diverse spiritual paths that resonate with their personal beliefs and interests, such as yoga, tai chi and qigong. These practices use gentle, mindful movements to promote physical health while encouraging inner calm and balance.
• Downsize and redirect funds into retirement investment: Downsizing a home can be a great way for empty nesters to save money, but there are additional ways to downsize. Adults paying for more streaming subscriptions than they can name can trim the fat by canceling little-used services and redirecting monthly fees into retirement investment vehicles. Adults can downsize their social lives, resolving to dine in more often and even host less frequently or shift toward styles of hosting like potluck affairs that encourage hosts and guests to share the costs of throwing a get-together.
These are just some of the unique ways working adults can catch up with their retirement savings.
Stay cool, Rockglen firefighting fundraiser brings the heat
Sherri Solomko Freelance Reporter
Bringing the spark to a new conversation, the Rockglen Fire Department announced a new initiative to spread smiles, not smoke. This community group of volunteer firefighters needed a way to hose down a problem, the need for new and updated rescue equipment.
This refreshing, unique fundraising initiative has RFD team members doing the stop, drop and pose as they have created a firefighting calendar to help with their ambitious fundraising goal.
Now the heat is on Rockglen and area residents to stand behind them, as the ultimate hot squad posed for photos to be included in their fundraising calendar. With alarming creativity, the partnership of RFD members and the photographer, 12 months of poses were captured for this calendar creation.
It’s no secret that our community volunteer fire departments are always in need of up-to-date equipment to service in their role as emergency protective services.
Just in time for holiday giving, their efforts are aiming to help fundraise for brand new Jaws of Life rescue equipment. These
efforts bring to light the need of local departments for funding to ensure their teams have the most up-todate equipment ready for when the alarm bell rings.
A recent Facebook post by the RFD stated, “Our current rescue tools are older than half the guys in these photos — and trust us, that’s saying something.”
These volunteer firefighters say they need to raise between $60,000 to $70,000 to purchase this invaluable equipment, and their spicy, but respectful calendar is their first big push.
Potentially once Rockglen and area residents realize the equipment needs these men and women are working for, there is hope that additional donations outside of calendar sales could be seen.
With a sense of humor, the announcement outlined the calendar includes, “Tasteful(ish) poses, questionable flexing, zero actual modeling experience with 100 per cent of the proceeds going to life-saving equipment in our community.”
Pre-orders are being taken so the team know how many calendars to print and RFD will accept cash, cheque or e-transfer, to rockglenfire@gmail.com, with orders being accepted to November 30, to receive
LAND FOR CASH RENT
Located in RM of Lake of the Rivers #72
• SE 24-7-28-W2
• NE 13-7-28-W2
• NW 15-7-28-W2
• NW 22-7-28-W2
• SW 22-7-28-W2
• NE 22-7-28-W2
• SE 27-7-28-W2
in time for Christmas.
“Thank you for supporting your local volunteers — and for letting us embarrass ourselves publicly for a good cause, with a special thanks to Breanna Sleightholm Photography,” adds the RFD team members.
A spokesperson for RFD told the Assiniboia
Times, “The idea had been floating around for a few years and always kind of got pushed aside, until we started talking to some community members about fundraising ideas and almost every one of them said to do a firefighter calendar, so we had no choice but to go through with it “
For the most part, RFD said all members were onboard, although some were a little reluctant but eventually agreed knowing it’s for a good cause.
Although the Jaws of Life was listed, the RFD spokesperson said their team is trying to upgrade all of their old hydraulic
tools, cutters, spreaders and rams.
“We missed our opportunity for the funding through SGI, which gave us this idea to start fundraising. The response has been overwhelming. I don’t think any of us thought we would have this much attention so far.”
Box 1281 • Assiniboia, Sask. • S0H 0B0 for more information call 306-642-5701 OR 306-640-8695
Located in RM of STONEHENGE No 73
NW21-06-01W3
SW29-06-01W3 approx 156 acres NE21-06-01 W3 approx 150 acres
Prosp ect ive bid der s mu st re ly on th ei r own re se arch of property to determine acreage, condition, improvements and assessments.
Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Please submit a certified cheque for 5% of the bid with tender, payable to Lewans & Ford in Trust and in a clearly marked envelope "VALLEY VIEW TENDER".
Te nde rs wi ll cl os e De ce mb er 12 20 25 at 2: 30 p. m. Closing date to be negotiated
Forward Tenders to: LEWANS & FORD Barrister & Solicitors Box 759, 228 Centre Street
FOR SALE BY TENDER
BRIERE TENDER
Located in RM of Wood River #74 SE 08-08-05W3 SW 08-08-05W3
Prospective bidders must rely on their own research of property to determine acreage, condition, improvements and assessments. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Please submit a certified cheque for 5% of the bid with tender, payable to Lewans & Ford in Trust and in a clearly marked envelope “BRIERE TENDER”
Te nders will close Dec emb er 12, 2 025 at 3:00 p.m.
Forward Tenders to: LEWANS & FORD Barrister & Solicitors Box 759, 228 Centre Street Assiniboia SK SOH 0B0 306-642-4520 or fax:
Assiniboia SK SOH 0B0 306-642-4520 or fax: 306-642-5777 office@lewansford.ca CASH RENT BY TENDER 7 Quarters north of Assiniboia R.M. of Lake Johnston #102 NW 6-10-28 W2, SE 6-10-28 W2, SW 6-10-28 W2 NE 1-10-29 W2 and SE 1-10-29 W2
R.M. of Lake of the Rivers #72 NW31-9-28 W2 SW31-9-28 W2 - does not include yard site and buildings or use of bins - lease to be for a 3 year term with rent to be payable one half May 1 and one half November 1 each year with GST added.
- Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.
- Bidders must rely on their own research and inspection of the property to determine farmland, acreage, conditions, improvements and assessments.
- Tenders to be received on any or all of the above property until December 10, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
- For further information please contact Keith Reitan at 306-640-6606
SEND OR DELIVER TENDERS TO: MOUNTAIN & MOUNTAIN LAW FIRM 101-4th Ave. West Box 459, Assiniboia, Sask S0H 0B0 Please mark envelope “Reitan Tender”
Firefighter jackets at the Rockglen Fire Department.
Kal Tire in Assiniobia has once again kept the wheels turning for the Gravelbourg Cares Shuttle bus with the donation of four new tires for the unit. Pictured, l-r, Umesh Patel, Niko Nicolson, Dianne Vandenbosch and Al Sutherland (Gravelbourg Cares Shuttle Inc. Kneeling at front is Randy LaRochelle.
Assiniboia Festival of Trees to celebrate a Golden Prairie Christmas
Sherri Solomko
Freelance Reporter
December brings another opportunity to step into a holiday wonderland that comes with the Assiniboia Festival of Trees celebration. This enchanting annual Christmas event brings the magic of the season, both from those who support it and those organizations that benefit from it.
A steadfast, dedicated group of volunteers in Assiniboia continue their efforts for fundraising for South Country Health Care Foundation and Prince of Wales Cultural Recreation Centre.
Committee chair, Joanna Croissant, told Assiniboia Times, “This is the 26th annual Festival of Trees in Assiniboia, being hosted on December 6. Since 1999, this yearly holiday event has raised $1,060.099 to benefit the two organizations we fundraise for.”
“This fundraiser was started in 1999 by community supporters to raise money for the facility that is a hub of activity and a central gathering place for people in the community of Assiniboia and surrounding area, the Prince of Wales Cultural and Recreation Centre. The committee added the South Country Health Care Foundation as a beneficiary recognizing the local healthcare
needs of the communities that SCHCF serves,” adds Croissant.
The committee acknowledged that over the years, funds have been used for improvement at the POW Cultural and Recreation Centre, as well as has supported purchases for the health care and wellness needs of facilities in Rockglen, Lafleche, Mossbank and Assiniboia.
Equipment purchases have been for: Heart monitors, blood pressure machines, oxygen concentrators, medication carts;
• Commode chairs, specialty tubs, bariatric bed/ equipment, high-low beds, lift machines; Palliative care areas designed for patients and families: and fitness equipment.
“This year’s theme is A Golden Prairie Christmas. The theme gives a nod to the agricultural industry that fuels the economy in southern Saskatchewan and to the efforts of ag producers and the supporters in the communities that bring in and benefit from the harvest. It’s a way to celebrate and give thanks.”
The Jolly Giant Pub and Motel will cater the festive meal, followed by a Grand Auction with entertainment by The Otherz Band to complete the gala event.
FOT chair adds, “I would describe the value of the fundraiser as meeting the needs of the com-
munity and surrounding area rather than its value to tourism in the area. This event is really about the people, local communities and businesses in the area coming together to support local services that are near and dear to residents. Most of the attendees live, work and serve in the community and surrounding area.”
Twelve people make up the FOT committee and they affirm that their efforts are supported by an amazing team of volunteers and the generous business community in the area, all who collaborate on hosting this tradition each year.
The Assiniboia Festival of Trees benefits the community by raising funds for local benefactors, strengthening community connection, and providing a festive holiday experience for families. The event fosters unity, celebrates creativity through decorated trees, and supports local businesses through the economic activity it generates.
This annual shared holiday celebration is a much-anticipated activity year after year. This yearly celebration gives community members a way to give back through attending, donations, volunteering and supporting the fundraiser overall.
Tickets went on sale November 4 and can be purchased online at www. sasktix.ca.
The Festival of Trees will mark a Golden Prairie Christmas this year.