What’s keeping Assiniboians talking as summer ends?

ASSINIBOIA — You don’t need AI to tell you there has been lots on the topic table in Assiniboia as summer comes to a close.

The recent re-opening of Main Street Assiniboia resulted in dozens of residents sharing their appreciation of the upgrades. A suggestion to revive an event like the Black Top Hop was put forward, as this was last held when Main Street was previously paved. Trevor Hay commented on the announcement post, “What a fantastic achievement for the community. The new street and sidewalk are a huge improvement.”

The major infrastructure investment in the community came with some progress pains. Assiniboians and businesses have been commended for their patience and flexibility throughout the process.

Who would have predicted Assiniboia would have a Dairy Queen franchise? Residents say it was worth the wait, and Wanita Flaman Kyle noted on social media that her dad wanted to be the first customer — and he was. The newest business has been a popular addition to the summer.

Rider Pride has never been greater. Assiniboia fans are revelling with the rest of the province in the remarkable season their team is having. Green is the colour all around town, and fans without Labour Day Classic tickets will have the chance to cheer at the Banjo Bowl tailgate party Sept. 5-7 at Southland Co-op Centre. The event will feature a big screen for the game, held in conjunction with other weekend activities.

Did Assiniboia really get nine inches (about 150 mls) of rain in August? After fears of another drought season, the rain did not seem to stop.

Saskatchewan’s weekly crop report shows Assiniboia received between 40 and 50 millimetres of rain in the week of Aug. 5-11 — usually the predicted total for the entire month. The same report shows cumulative rainfall from April 1 to Aug. 1 at 250 to 275 mm.

Will the weather calm down to allow harvest operations to continue relatively uninterrupted? Stay tuned.

Assiniboia’s ball teams enjoyed continued success in 2025. The senior men’s Aces once again dominated both league and provincials, adding another pair of titles. The 13UAA Aces baseball team won both their league championship in Regina and a provincial championship, earning them a spot at Western Canadians. Softball players were part of extended runs in provincials, Western Canadians and national championships, with Bengough’s Toni Giraudier capturing a third straight Canadian title with her team, the Southeast Steelers.

The senior men’s team hosted a highly successful provincial men’s championship, showcasing recent upgrades to the diamonds. They also presented the 13U Southern Aces with $1,000 to help with travel expenses for Western Canadians, and the Rotary Club with $1,700 in thanks for managing the gate at the event. Teamwork, as they say, makes the dream work.

With the ice already in, Southland Co-op Centre is gearing up for another exciting season. The Jr. Rebels training camp will run Sept. 5-7, including an intersquad game. A tailgate party featuring the Banjo Bowl will be part of the weekend, along with a WHL exhibition game. Residents are encouraged to follow the Assiniboia Recreation Facebook page for the latest updates.

Curling fans across the province are also talking about Assiniboia, as the community prepares to host its first-ever Canadian Curling Championship in November. Mixed teams from across the country will compete for a national title, while the Assiniboia Curling Club celebrates its 90th anniversary — a milestone recognizing founders and countless volunteers who have kept curling at the heart of the community.