Over the past two years and eight months, I have been blessed to work as a reporter and photographer at the Assiniboia Times.
Living in South Central Saskatchewan has often been a challenge and a privilege in numerous ways.
During the time I’ve resided here, the issues experienced by the province’s agricultural industry have become more perceptible … at least to a fraction. Moreover, I have gained a slightly better understanding of the struggles encountered by small businesses in rural Saskatchewan – many of whom are trying to subsist in the remote communities within the newspaper’s coverage area, such as Big Beaver, Coronach and Willow Bunch.
Accessible health care likewise remains another concern for many in rural Saskatchewan. However, the Red Coat Clinic and the Assiniboia Union Hospital should be commended for their diligence and loyalty to this community, especially through a worldwide pandemic.
There are many qualities about this town which I will never forget. Assiniboia’s restaurants are friendly, affordable and serve great food. The garages in Assiniboia are staffed with knowledgeable mechanics – many of them have assisted in keeping my car running along the rural byways surrounding this town – but admittedly, most of these roads are better-suited for large-wheeled pick-ups and Land Rovers than tiny Ford Fusions.
Even though the Assiniboia Ministerial Association have faced an unending list of obstacles this year because of COVID and the accompanying public health orders, the pastors in this community are to be praised for standing strong in their faith during unparalleled times. Some of their Pass the Salt submissions have been inspirational – particularly in 2020. Also, the people of the St. George’s RC Parish Centre won’t be forgotten for being welcoming, supportive and faithful throughout my stay in Assiniboia.
For such a small town, Assiniboia’s recreation facilities are amazing. The POW hosted a myriad of programs for people of all ages, which I was privileged to attend as a reporter. Whenever I was stumped for information about this region, the Assiniboia and District Public Library provided an astonishing quantity of resources for this outsider from Alberta/British Columbia. Even during COVID, Assiniboia Recreation and Community Wellness continued to organize a series of events for the community in 2020 – whether these were live happenings or situated on social media.
The Assiniboia and District Museum provided a surplus of stories, useful contacts and photographic opportunities. Additionally, the Shurniak Gallery functioned as a resource for articles.
On the subject of arts, the Assiniboia and District Arts Council were terrific on multiple levels for providing me with material and artistic motivation. I have especially enjoyed interviewing and discussing art with the artists in Assiniboia and the surrounding communities.
The Assiniboia RCMP are a dedicated and trustworthy force – they have assisted me each week with providing information on crimes and related statistics in this region. Assiniboia’s RCMP must be acknowledged for being forthcoming, communicative and helpful.
Finally, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 17 should be mentioned for their energy, kindness and enduring support to the Assiniboia Times.
