Media Release For Immediate Release
January 28, 2025
Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) is pleased to announce its upcoming Semi-Annual Meeting, to be held on February 7, 2025, at the Dakota Dunes Resort in White Cap, Saskatchewan. The event will begin with the meeting at 2 p.m. CST, followed by a celebratory banquet in the evening.
Following the meeting, SSGA will be holding a special banquet where five outstanding individuals will be honoured with Honour Scrolls for their exceptional contributions to the livestock industry, their community and to the province of Saskatchewan. The 2025 recipients of the awards are Matthew Flaman of Vibank, SK; Wayne and Linda Libke of Hanley, SK; and Lloyd and Jean Thompson of Estevan, SK.
“We take pride in upholding the tradition of the Saskatchewan Livestock Association Honour Scroll program, which began in 1927 to recognize the dedication, leadership, and hard work these individuals have shown in advancing the Saskatchewan livestock industry,” said SSGA President Jeff Yorga.
After the meeting and a delicious dinner, attendees are invited to stick around for a night of laughter and inspiration with Big Daddy Tazz! With more than 30 years of experience performing at fundraisers, corporate events, festivals, and on television, Tazz has become a beloved figure in the comedy world. Known as the “Bi-Polar Buddha,” he blends humour with powerful messages of mental health advocacy. His ability to enlighten, educate, and inspire has earned him rave reviews and standing ovations from audiences across the country.
Event Date: February 7, 2025
Event Location: Dakota Dunes Resort, White Cap, Saskatchewan
Event Schedule:
5:30 PM: Cocktails
6:30 PM: Banquet Dinner
8:30 PM: Entertainment
Registration Information:
Individual Banquet Ticket: $60 (GST included)
Table of Eight Banquet Tickets: $450 (GST included)
Reserve Your Spot: Pre-register online to secure your place at this exclusive event.
We encourage all members, partners, and guests to join us for this significant event, as we celebrate the achievements of our great membership and look forward to the opportunities ahead. Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating excellence!
For more information, please contact the SSGA office at (306) 757-8527.
A brief overview of the 2025 Honour Scroll recipients:
Matthew Flaman, Matthew grew up on a family farm in Vibank, SK, that has been in operation since 1932, where he was actively involved in 4-H and various sports, and later returned to the farm after graduating from Vibank School in 1991. A pioneer in the dairy industry, Matthew helped transition the family farm to a purebred Holstein operation and was an early adopter of artificial insemination in his community. He has contributed to numerous agricultural organizations, serving as a director, vice chair, and chair for entities like Saskatchewan Holstein Branch, CanWest DHI, and Lactanet Canada. Additionally, Matthew dedicated more than 20 years to coaching minor hockey and remains deeply committed to local volunteer activities. His work at national tables through SaskMilk and other agricultural organizations has had a lasting impact on the Canadian dairy industry.
Wayne and Linda Libke of Sunny Valley Simmentals, located in Hanley, SK, are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to the agricultural and livestock industries. Married in 1986, they have dedicated their lives to breeding and showing Purebred Simmental cattle, continuing the legacy of Linda’s parents who founded Sunny Valley Simmentals in 1970. With a strong family involvement, including their children Tyler and Amanda, as well as grandchildren, the Libkes have significantly impacted the Simmental cattle industry through successful showings, sales, and breeding programs. They have received numerous accolades, including selling the high-selling Simmental bull in Canada in 2013. Wayne has served as a director on the Saskatchewan Simmental Association Board, while Linda has been a committed 4-H leader. Their contributions extend beyond farming, having also hosted Hanley 4-H Achievement Days and participated in various agricultural committees. Together, they continue to foster a deep passion for agriculture and cattle breeding, involving the next generation in their family-operated business.
Lloyd & Jean Thompson, along with their family operated the T Four Ranch at Carnduff, SK consisting of a feedlot and 1200 cow-calf operation. Lloyd & Jean’s passion for agriculture extended beyond the ranch, as they made significant contributions to Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector through their leadership in various agricultural associations, including the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and the Grazing and Pasture Technology Program. Lloyd & Jean have mentored youth through local 4-H Clubs and the Agricultural Society, and their commitment to ranching and land stewardship was reflected in his successful participation in ranch rodeos, culminating in winning the Agribition Ranch Rodeo in 2011. Lloyd & Jean’s impact on their community, province, and the agricultural sector is immeasurable, leaving a lasting legacy as a volunteers, mentors, and livestock industry leaders.