Weyburn This Week - April 24, 2025

Spirit Singers to showcase their amazing talent in ‘Little Women’

By Sabrina Kraft

The Spirit Singers of Grace United Church will present the musical ‘Little Women’ from May 1 to 4. Tickets are available at Grace United Office. Tickets for the dinner and first performance on May 1 are priced at $50, and the May 2, May 3 and May 4 shows cost $20 for adults and $10 for students.

“Little Women is set back in 1865, so it’s an old tale. It’s about four sisters, the March sisters,” said Emerson Jack. “Jo, who’s a writer, wants to be an accomplished writer, is working her dreams to be a famous writer while her sisters kind of encourage her. It’s during wartime, during the Civil War, so they don’t have a father at the moment. He’s gone.”

“I think there’s something in it for everyone,” said Emerson. “Live theatre is something that everyone, I think, should support. This also keeps the youth going in theatre.”

“It is a very good story, while it is an old-fashioned story, it still tells a tale that a lot of people go through,” said Tauren Jack. “This is a story that everyone should see. There’s been a lot of work put into it and a lot of dedication.”

Tauren’s role is Professor Frederick Bhaer. “He’s an aging German professor. He’s kind of lonely, but he doesn’t realize it. By the time he’s realized he’s lonely, he’s done a lot with his life. But he ponders the question of life, and that’s all he really needs until he meets Jo (March).”

“People should come see Little Women because it’s a really fun musical with a lot of good music,” said Lila Anderson. “I think it’s really interesting how Jo’s stories can come to life, and it’s not something you really see in a lot of musicals.”

Her role is Amy March, the youngest sister. “She is a typical younger sister who complains, isn’t invited anywhere, and is just

so upset with how she isn’t exactly like her older sisters, but she also wishes she could be at the same time. I think that you can really see how she grows up throughout the whole musical. I’ve really liked playing her.”

“This musical is just such an emotional story, it will make you laugh, and it’ll make you cry. It’s really relatable to all the things that happen in it,” said Jyllian Payak, who plays Beth March, the second youngest of the sisters.

“Beth lays the piano, and that’s kind of a big part about it. She has a special bond with Jo, who’s her older sister. She’s just kind of nice to everyone.”

“Our group, the Spirit Singers, has been working incredibly hard on this for about a month, and we’re already ready to perform it, which is crazy,” said Brittany Barber. “The amount of work we’ve put into it is just insane, and it’s an incredible musical. And I think everyone needs to come out and see it because it’s just amazing.”

Brittany’s role is Josephine “Jo” March, the second oldest of the sisters. “She

is interesting because typically in this time period, women, their goals were to marry, and that was kind of how they had a successful life. But Jo, she’s very independent, and she doesn’t want a husband. She wants to fulfill her dreams of being a writer and to travel.”

“I think everyone should come watch Little Women because it’s a different musical from what we’ve done before. Its characters really reflect the people we are, who are acting in it,”

said Brinlee Klapak. “It’s the last musical for some of us that are graduating, so it’s extra special for us and for our families to come watch. It’s super special. This mucial follows a very fun storyline and there’s lots of fun costumes and fun sets.”

Brinlee’s role is Meg March, the oldest sister. “Looking for love is her biggest goal in life, which includes finding a husband and being a wife.”

“As the oldest, Meg leads her sisters through the

stages of life in that way.

As she is the first to experience things in life, she helps them out as a role model.”

“I just think, just from being in this musical, it’s a really incredible production,” said Calla Hrynewich. “We’ve put so much work and effort into getting this musical together.”

“I think it really showcases some of the incredible talent in our community. I think it’s a really great opportunity to come together and experience a wonder-

ful story. Every dollar of the ticket is worth it because every solo is truly incredible in and of itself,” added Hrynewich.

Her role is Marmee March, the mother of the four women. “Her biggest thing is her husband has gone off in the Civil War, as Little Women is set in the Civil War period in America. As the father has gone and is fighting in Washington, Marmee is left with her four daughters to raise them and guide them through life.”

Finalists announced for 2025 WEYBEX awards this week

The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce recently announce the finalists for the 2025 WEYBEX awards presented by Weyburn Credit Union, on May 9, 2025 at McKenna Hall. These finalists personify the excellence and success of Weyburn’s business community.

After a rigorous adjudication process, 12 finalists were selected for their excellent business strategies in five categories. The finalists were judged on their application and supporting

documents, with strong attention to unique business achievement and engagement.

In the Community Involvement Award category, sponsored by Sask Energy, the finalists are: E. Bourassa & Sons, Weyburn Red Wings, and Young Fellows Club.

In the Golden Service Award category, sponsored by MNP, the finalists are: Auntie Char’s Creationz, and Mindard’s Leisure World.

In the New or Expanded Business Award

category, sponsored by Community Futures Sunrise the finalists are: Ice & Ink Beauty Bar, StreamTech, and Zippy Mart/Mr. Sub.

In the Business Hall of Fame category, sponsored by the Doane Grant Thornton, the inductees are: John Hulbert Construction Ltd., Quality Plumbing & Heating, and Weyburn Carpet One.

In the Leadership Excellence Award category, sponsored by Saskatchewan Blue Cross, the finalist is Dawn Gutzke.

The Business of the Year Award will be selected from the winners of the following categories: Golden Service, Community Involvement and New or Expanded Business. The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce presents biennially the WEYBEX Awards to celebrate business excellence in our community. To purchase tickets for WEYBEX Awards please visit www.weyburnchamber.com or contact the Chamber office at 306-842-4738.

COMMUNITY

Fred Sandeski speaks with Keith Jorgensen, MLA for Saskatoon Churchill-Wildwood, and Cam Weber outside of the Weyburn Special Care Home on April 18. Fred and his belongings were removed from the Weyburn Care Home, where he had been staying, with friends and supporters protesting outside.

Weyburn Art Gallery:

‘A Nikkel’s Worth’ pays tribute to a

Sara Parks/ SaskToday.ca

The Weyburn Art Gallery is presenting “A Nikkel’s Worth – A Lifetime of Photos by Greg Nikkel,” a heartfelt retrospective celebrating the work of a man who spent decades capturing the heart and soul of Weyburn and its people.

The opening reception will be held on April 29 at 7 p.m., inviting the community to gather in remembrance of a photographer who saw Weyburn through every lens.

“Greg spent a lifetime capturing us, both as residents and as a community,” said staff at the Weyburn Art Gallery. “Join us in saying goodbye to a man who saw it all, and still loved us.”

going dedication to capturing our province in his photos and stories was appreciated by his community, his co-workers and his employers. He has left a legacy others should strive to emulate.”

Andrea Corrigan, publisher of The Weyburn Review/Weyburn This Week, reflected on his impact.

“Greg always had an eye for that special photo and could bring it to life, adding a sense of emotion and story. He had a way of capturing that point in time that became part of Weyburn’s history. If something was happening in the community, you would be sure to find Greg there to document the event. His passion for his job was evident in his stories and photos.

shots, and even the occasional tornado clouds. He was a master at night photography, showcasing the amazing Christmas lights and Chamber Santa parade each and every year. He was also known as a staple around the Ag Society grounds for all their rodeos. He received many photography awards during his career at the Weyburn Review/Weyburn This Week, and this art exhibit showcases his ‘eye of Weyburn’. Photography was never work for himhe was truly an artist.”

Greg Nikkel, most recently a content producer with SaskToday and a 30-year veteran of The Weyburn Review, was more than a photographer; he was a storyteller, a historian, and a fixture in the community. His images documented celebrations, storms, rodeos, and quiet moments, leaving behind a visual legacy of Weyburn.

Jayne Foster, Content Manager for SaskToday, added, “Greg’s photography and reporting were solidly representative of Saskatchewan in all its variety. His quiet but on -

“I will not only miss his presence in the office but our shared love of movies and our discussion of the characters and movies that we liked and disliked. Our version of Siskel and Ebert,” added Corrigan. “He was a staple in this community for 30 years and he will be greatly missed.”

Sabrina Kraft of The Weyburn Review shared fond memories.

“Greg was affectionately called our storm chaser in our office, as he would go out of his way to get the best lightning

This exhibit, which goes from April 29 to May 27, is organized by the Weyburn Art Gallery, with support from Tracey Nikkel and The Weyburn Review. Refreshments, courtesy of the Rotary Club of Weyburn, will be prepared by the Weyburn Arts Council. The gallery extends gratitude to SK Arts, SaskCulture, and the City of Weyburn for their support.

Greg Nikkel passed away suddenly on Feb. 22, 2025, at the age of 63. A service of remembrance will be held on April 30, 2025, at 1:30 at the Weyburn Free Methodist Church, 133 14th St. N.E. A luncheon will follow the service. Interment will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery.

EDITORIAL COLUMN: OUR HEALTH-CARE HAS CHANGED

Stephanie Zoer, Freelance Reporter

A question repeatedly asked is what has happened to our health care?

People wait for long periods of time for MRIs, CT scans, specialist appointments and surgeries.

This issue is not only felt in Saskatchewan but across the country, as I hear friends comment that they also need to wait in other provinces.

As a child growing up in rural Ontario, I had the same doctor until I got married.

When we needed to go and see him, it was not a quick visit. He office was packed with patients and everyone chatted with each other as they knew the wait was going to be hours.

Never did we go in and have a 15-minute wait, as our family doctor was also the doctor on call for the hospital during regular clinic hours. We did not go to the specialist for tonsil removal; our family doctor did that. If someone broke an arm, the family doctor set the bone and put on a cast.

The wait at times was hours in the clinic, but no one seemed to complain.

After I got married, I had my husband’s doctor. This same doctor delivered our children, he did most of my surgeries and the waiting room was always full of people.

The hospitals in these small towns growing up were used for everything, from deliveries to surgeries to emergency care. My grandma received care when she had her stroke.

Our family doctors knew us without looking at our charts. They asked how family members were doing because he knew the whole family.

We also only went to the doctor if needed, which was not very often, and our family doctor did it all, except for critical cases. We were then sent to the big cities or the specialist came to the small-town hospital.

It is not like this today, and it is frustrating not having the same doctor for issues. They all seem to have a different diagnosis of the situation.

Wait times are now short. Not once has the waiting room been filled with patients when we have gone. At most there are two other people.

Over the past six weeks, we have been to the doctors and emergency a lot as we have a very sick daughter.

The nurses have been excellent, and it is great to see the same ones when we go in. First of all, they remember who we are and ask how things are going, and second of all, it makes the visit a little more personal for the patient, especially when we are struggling with what is going on.

With each visit to emergency,

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we have had a different doctor. Our family doctor left in February. We don’t have one and they tell us we need a family doctor.

So, tell me why do we need a family doctor? They only stay for a few years and then move on. Just when you start to get comfortable with one, off they go.

With all the doctors that have left the small towns and gone to the big cities, one might think the backlog would slow down.

Each time we see a different doctor

we have to go through the whole process again of what is going on, as they do not seem to read the patient’s charts beforehand.

And why are the doctors that we have in the smaller hospitals not doing some of the surgeries? Are they not qualified, or are the hospitals not set up for such things?

I believe having our town doctors taking care of some surgeries would reduce some of the backlog.

I think we can do better, and the system could be more efficient.

Letter: No Windmills group voices concerns over Chamber support presented at RM meeting

To the Editor, How desperate is the Chamber of Commerce?

Here’s a breakdown of the so-called “support” the Chamber brought to the RM meeting on April 4th:

- 41 names signed their letter — but here’s what they don’t want you to notice:

- Only 14 of those are actual Chamber members — that’s just 7.3% of their 191 listed members.

- Six aren’t even businesses — they include individuals and public entities like the Chamber itself, the District Planning Commission, and Nickle Lake.

- 10 are directly tied to the family that has signed leases on the majority of land in the proposed project area (and NONE of those have Chamber memberships).

Remember the anonymous survey the Chamber sent with the letter? Still no word on the results. Why the silence? And here’s the kicker:

- Not a single one of the 12 Chamber Board members signed their business onto the letter.

What does that tell you?

3,582 signatures opposed to this project destroying our rural communities!!! Sincerely, No Weyburn Windmills

- Concerned, citizens, advocating for accountability, transparency, a nd fairness for those most closely affected, and with the most to lose #FollowTheMoney #TransparencyMatters #businessrepresentation #spendwisely

Southeast College announces new president and CEO

Southeast College’s Board of Govenor’s would like to welcome Jody Holzmiller to the role of permanent President/CEO.

Holzmiller has been in the Interim role since July of 2024, and will officially be the College’s permanent President/CEO on May 1, 2025.

Holzmiller has been at Southeast College since December of 2005. With almost 20 years in the Sas-

katchewan College system, Holzmiller brings with her to the President/CEO role a wealth of knowledge, experience, and relationships. She has performed a variety of roles at Southeast, the most recent being the Vice President of Professional Training and Continuing Studies. John Williams, Board Chair at Southeast says, “The stability, experience and sector knowledge Jody brings

to the role of President/ CEO is invaluable. Over the past eight months, the Board has witnessed Jody’s commitment to fostering a climate of trust, transparency, and accessibility.”

As part of her role, Holzmiller will network with First Nations, business leaders, communities, post-secondary institutions, other Saskatchewan colleges, international partners, and government

officials at all levels to strengthen the College’s position in the region and province. These partnerships will enable students to “learn where they live” by providing accessible and affordable post-secondary education in rural areas and on all First Nations in the college region. “Jody is eager to position Southeast College to play a pivotal role in the challenges our communities

Beau, Ethan and Ryan watched as their colours exploded, after pouring vinegar into trays while dying Easter eggs. The PreKindergarten students used different methods to dye Easter eggs during class time at St. Michael School.

are facing. Forging strong relationships and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration will be key elements in doing so,” says Board Chair John Williams.

Holzmiller comes to the role with a Master of Educational Administration (University of Regina) as well as a Master of Arts in Leadership and Training (Royal Roads University). Jody started her role at Southeast in 2005 as the Executive Assistant to the President/CEO and Board of Governors. With her education and experience, she quickly moved through

the ranks to a Vice President role and will now lead the institution.

“The Board is excited to work with Jody and we will support her efforts in moving the college forward during her term,” says Williams.

Southeast College would like to extend its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Advanced Education for their guidance and expertise throughout the CEO recruitment process.

Southeast College is proud to offer innovative and flexible programming that encourages students to learn where they live.

ASSESSMENT NOTICE

R.M. of Norton

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Norton #69 for the year of 2025 has been prepared and is open to in sp ec ti on in th e of fi ce of th e as se sso r by appointment on the following days: Monday to Friday, April 18th to June 16th, 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 who wishes to appeal against their assessment i s re qui re d to fi le th ei r not ic e of a ppeal wi th : We st er n Mu nicipal Consulting Ltd. Box 189 Pangman, Sk S0C 2C0.

Dated this 17th day of April, 2025

Patti Gurskey, Assessor

SPORTS

Red Wings and Mustangs tied after first two games of SJHL final

Dave Thomas SaskToday.ca

The SJHL final series is even at one win apiece for the Weyburn Red Wings and Melfort Mustangs.

The Melfort Mustangs’ were determined to defend home ice in game two of the series.

The Red Wings set a physical tone early in the game with a huge hit 15 seconds after the opening faceoff. The Red Wings would continue to assert themselves physically in the game’s opening stages, eventually forcing the Mustangs to take a penalty out of frustration at the 6:13 mark of the period.

The Red Wings’ struggling power play wouldn’t get a shot on goal thanks to relentless puck pressure by the Mustangs that didn’t allow Weyburn’s special teams to get set up.

The teams didn’t give up many scoring chances the remainder of the period, resulting in a scoreless first period.

In the second period, Melfort started the frame on the man advantage after a late penalty to Weyburn, which foreshadowed how the period would play out for Weyburn.

The Red Wings would kill the remaining time on the initial penalty, but 45 seconds after the penalty expired, Weyburn would take a pair of penalties 16 seconds apart.

Mustang would open the scoring on the resulting five-on-three opportunity.

Logan Belton’s fourth of the playoffs, a one-timer from the bottom of the right wing circle, would put the Mustangs in front 1-0.

Following another pair of Weyburn penalties, the Mustangs’ power play was all over Weyburn, but Red Wing’s goaltender Angelo Zol made some outstanding saves to keep the lead at one goal.

However, as Weyburn’s minor penalty expired, Logan Belton scored his second of the night to give Melfort a 2-0 lead. Weyburn was assessed 20 minutes in penalties in the second period, disrupting any built-up offensive momentum. The Red Wings did not register a shot in period until there was 3:32 remaining in the frame.

Shots on goal in the second period were 15-5 in favour of Melfort, and they would take the 2-0

advantage into the intermission.

In the third period, Melfort would put the game away less than three minutes into the third period when Melfort’s Bo Eisner’s screened shot found the back of the net.

Weyburn’s power play is definitely a point of concern. They are 0/11 in the series and have just one goal in their last 17 power plays.

Game One

The Weyburn Red Wings claimed first blood in the opening game of the SJHL Final with a 2-1 victory over the Mustangs.

In the opening period, the defending champion Mustangs controlled much of the play in the Red Wings’ end. Still, the only way that they could find a way to beat Weyburn netminder Angelo Zol was a Red Wings miscue at the offensive blueline. A bobbled puck by Weyburn allowed Melfort’s Zayden Sadlemeyer to use his speed to sneak in on a breakaway, where he would make no mistake to give the Mustangs a 1-0 lead.

Late in the opening frame, Weyburn got an opportunity on the man advantage. However, they

couldn’t find a way to get set up, and their league-worst postseason power play was held off the scoresheet.

Melfort would take a 1-0 advantage into the intermission. Despite the lead on the score clock, Weyburn would outshoot the Mustangs 11-9 in the opening period.

The second period started like the first period ended, with Melfort controlling the puck and pouring the pressure on. The first three minutes of the period were almost entirely in Weyburn’s end, but the Mustangs could not find a way to beat Zol.

Undiscipline started to creep into both teams’ games as players pushed for open space. Melfort would get three power-play chances in the opening 15 minutes of the second frame. The last one, however, would hurt as, while shorthanded, Weyburn’s Jerome Maharaj would read a pass at the blue line and break away to the Melfort zone, where a backhand-forehand move resulting in a shot off the tip of Melfort’s Kristian Coombs’ glove, gave Weyburn the equalizer, 1-1.

Penalties would continue to play a factor. With 2:39 left in the period, Mustangs

forward Nolan Roberts would be assessed a major penalty and game misconduct for checking to the head. Weyburn would be unable to capitalize on the power play, which would spill over to the third period.

Shots on goal in the second period were 14-5 in favour of the Mustangs, with the teams tied 1-1 heading into the dressing room.

To start the third period, the Mustangs relentlessly pressured the puck, not allowing the Red Wings to set up the power play. The Mustangs’ penalty killers were successful in killing off the major penalty. However, the Mustangs’ undisciplined play continued, as they immediately gave Weyburn another man advantage after an interference penalty.

The Mustangs would successfully kill off that penalty, thanks in part to Weyburn being assessed a handling-the-puck penalty.

During the subsequent penalty, Melfort appeared to score the go-ahead goal. Zayden Sadlemeyer stickhandled to the slot and rang the puck off the crossbar despite goal horns and celebrations by his teammates, the referee immediately

waived no-goal.

Play continued, and as Ethan Dekay exited the box for Weyburn, he took a pass at the Melfort blue line and broke in on the Melfort goal, slipping the puck between the legs of Melfort’s Coombs to give Weyburn a 2-1 lead.

After the goal, there was a brief delay for an SJHL first. The play was under video review.

Before the game, the SJHL announced it would introduce video review for the final series. In addition to determining the validity of goals, officials and coaches could investigate whether goals resulted from offside plays using six criteria. The Melfort chance was confirmed not to be a goal, and Weyburn’s lead was 2-1.

As the third period continued, the game tightened up, with neither team able to find the back of the net. Weyburn would hang on for a 2-1 game-one win, outshooting Melfort 12-5 in the third period. The shots were tied 28-28 overall in the game, and both teams were 0/4 on the powerplay. Games three and four will be in Weyburn tonight, April 23, and Thursday, April 24.

Peyton Lokken makes Team Sask

Peyton Lokken, a dedicated athlete from Airbourne Gymnastics Club, has earned a spot on Team Saskatchewan for the upcoming Western Canadian Championships. She is the second gymnast in the club’s history to achieve this exciting milestone.

Peyton began her gymnastics journey at the age of 6 after attending a gymnastics birthday party. Before that, she had participated in Tumblebugs and a beginner Acro class, but it quickly became clear that gymnastics was her passion. At the party the hosting coach recommended that she try out for a competitive team –and she’s been hooked ever since.

Now training approximately 12 hours per week, Peyton’s schedule includes regular trips to Regina to practice advanced skills into the foam pit and train alongside other high level gymnasts from across the province. Her favorite event is floor. “I love floor because I get to mix tumbling with artistic choreography – and I get to create my own routines!” she shared

When asked what she’s most looking forward to heading into Westerns, Peyton said, “Qualifying for Westerns was a huge goal of mine. I’m super excited

to have the chance to compete with Team Sask at this level. I’m really looking forward to meeting new people, doing my best and enjoying everything that comes with this opportunity. It’s something I’ve worked really hard for, so I just want to take it all in and have fun!”

This year’s Western Canadian Championships will be held in Saskatoon, giving Peyton the opportunity to compete in front of some familiar faces.

Peyton’s achievement is a reflection of her dedication and passion, and a proud moment for the Airbourne Gymnastics Club.

Six candidates vying for MP seat in Souris-Moose Mountain

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

Voters will have six candidates to choose from in the Souris-Moose Mountain constituency in the April 28 federal election. SourisMoose Mountain covers southeast and south-central portions of the province.

Steven Bonk, Conservative Party

Steven Bonk is the Conservative candidate for Souris-Moose Mountain.

Greg Nikkel

Of the six candidates, Steven Bonk, who lives in the Wolseley area, has the most political experience. He was the MLA for the Moosomin constituency for the Saskatchewan Party from 2016-2024, and was to represent the party in the 2024 provincial election, but instead shifted his attention to federal politics. He won a contested nomination to be the Tories’ candidate last summer. He was also the Saskatchewan co-captain for federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s successful leadership bid.

During a meet and greet in Estevan, Bonk covered a number of different topics, including what the party would do on taxes, gun control and support for the energy sector. He has also promoted the Tories’ campaign values to “axe the [carbon] tax, control the budget and stop the crime.”

Lyndon Dayman, Canadian Future Party

Lyndon Dayman, who farms in the Windthorst area, is a longtime Conservative Party supporter who even ran to be the Tor-

ies’ candidate for the 2015 election, but was defeated by Kitchen. He was also involved with the local electoral district association and the party’s policy and constitution committee.

But Dayman publicly criticized the process that resulted in Bonk winning the Conservatives’ nomination last year, and decided to run for the new Canadian Future Party in this election.

According to the party’s website, Dayman is one of 19 candidates from across the country. He said he likes the party’s grassroots approach and its tough stance on crime. He also believes the party has a better approach to handling tariffs from U.S. President Donald Trump than the governing Liberals.

Aziz Mian, Liberal Party of Canada Aziz Mian is the Liberal candidate for Souris-Moose Mountain. Photo sourced from liberal.ca Aziz Mian is running in Souris-Moose Mountain for the first time. The Liberals have not responded to SaskToday’s requests for an interview with Mian, and the party did not have a biography for him on its website as of April 17.

Sheena Muirhead Koops, New Democratic Party

Sheena Muirhead Koops, who resides near Macoun, says she has always had a keen interest in politics and her philosophies have always been aligned with the New Democratic Party. She is running for elected office for the first time.

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Stephen Schury Assessor

After reading through the NDP policy manual, she saw the language around which she has built her life. She read about the economic hope of people working collaboratively, putting each other first and thinking about rural revitalization. She believes universal health care is one of Canada’s greatest sources of pride, but it needs to be re-imagined to be brought into modern times.

Muirhead Koops decided to run after listening to U.S. President Donald Trump, and thinking she could challenge Trump’s fear-based approach by bringing love, care and hope.

Travis Patron, independent

Travis Patron is back on the ballot in Souris-Moose Mountain. Patron, who was the founder of the nowdefunct Canadian Nationalist Party (CNP), ran for the party in Souris-Moose Mountain in the 2019 federal election, finishing last in the six-candidate field.

He is running as an independent this time around, but he has publicly identified himself as the leader of the CNP even though the party has been deregistered by Elections Canada.

In a post on his website, Patron accused the federal government of facilitating a radical demographic change in Canada’s population.

“This hypocrisy of biblical proportions aims at reducing Canadians to a dwindled minority in

their own country in order to transition us into ‘the world’s first post-national country’ as communicated by the Liberal government shortly after their election to the Prime Minister’s office in 2015,” Patron wrote.

Remi Rheault, Green Party of Canada

Grenfell resident Remi Rheault is running for the party for the first time in Saskatchewan and the second time overall. He was the Greens’ candidate in 2021 while he was residing in Kenora, Ont.

He has had Liberal, Conservative and New Democratic Party memberships in the past, but now sides with the Greens. He decided to run for the party because of its political structure, which he believes would allow him to properly represent the people of Souris-Moose Mountain, since he is not required to tow the party line. He compared the structure of the Green Party to that of a co-operative, and he has 18 co-op memberships.

He hopes to see a strong voter turnout for the election, which he believes would be needed to win the riding.

Riding history

The constituency has long been a stronghold for right-of-centre political parties. It was formed in 1987 by bringing together the Qu’Appelle–Moose Mountain and portions of the Assiniboia ridings.

Lenard Gustafson, who was first elected as an MP

in 1976 for the Progressive Conservatives in the Assiniboia constituency, won the first election for Souris–Moose Mountain in 1988. Gustafson did not seek re-election in 1993, as he had been appointed to the Senate.

Bernie Collins was elected in 1993 for the Liberal Party – the only time a non-right-of-centre party has been represented in the riding. He was defeated in 1997 by Roy Bailey of the Reform Party. Bailey was re-elected in 2000 for the Canadian Alliance and did not seek re-election in 2004.

Ed Komarnicki was elected for the Conservative Party of Canada in 2004. The riding was thrust into the national spotlight that year, as Grant Devine – who represented the Estevan constituency provincially when he was Saskatchewan’s premier from 1982–91 – ran as an independent. Devine had entered the race to be the Conservative candidate, along with Komarnicki and two other hopefuls, but the party blocked Devine’s nomination.

Komarnicki was reelected convincingly in 2006, 2008 and 2011. He opted not to run in 2015, and Robert Kitchen was elected as the riding’s MP for the first time, also decisively. Kitchen won again in 2019 and 2021.

Redistribution impact:

REMEMBERING ALL WORKERS INJURED OR KILLED ON THE JOB

Memorial Ceremony

TC Douglas Calvary Centre, Weyburn Monday, April 28 at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Economics: Souris–Moose Mountain is a resource-rich constituency. Agriculture plays a pivotal role in the lives of people in the riding, as it does in other ridings in the province, but mining and the oil and gas sector are also present.

The oil industry is prevalent throughout much of the riding. The southeast often leads the province in the sale of Crown natural gas rights. There are also potash mines in the northeast corner, and the region has drawn considerable interest due to the presence of critical minerals. Issues related to oil and gas and electricity are of primary importance in this riding — including the industrial carbon tax and electricity regulations. With the riding bordering the U.S., border-related issues and border security are also more prominent, including the impact of tariffs on cross-border traffic.

Souris–Moose Mountain was a vast constituency before the redistribution took effect for this election. The riding’s boundaries have been expanded to the west to include the Assiniboia area. According to Elections Canada, the riding’s population now stands at more than 80,000 people. Estevan and Weyburn are both cities, while Moosomin and Assiniboia are towns with more than 2,000 people. There are several towns above the 1,000 mark, and the riding has many other towns, villages and rural municipalities.

NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING

Proclamation

WHEREAS: Every year, more than 1,000 Canadian workers are killed on the job. AND WHEREAS: Thousands more are permanently disabled. AND WHEREAS: Hundreds of thousands are injured. AND WHEREAS: Thousands of others die from cancer, lung disease, and other ailments caused by exposure to toxic substances at their workplaces

AND WHEREAS: April 28 of each year has been chosen by the Canadian Labour Congress as:

• a Day of Mourning for these victims of workplace accidents and disease;

• a day to remember the maximum sacrifice they have been forced to make in order to earn a living;

• a day to renew approaches to governments for tougher occupational health and safety standards, and more effective Compensation; a day to rededicate ourselves to the goal of making Canada’s workplaces safer. AND WHEREAS: April 28th was proclaimed a “Day of Mourning” by an Act of Parliament on February 1, 1991.

Meeting offers more discussion on potential Estevan rec facility

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

Interest remains in the effort to bring a new, multi-use recreation facility in Estevan.

The second meeting for the project was held April 16 at the Days Inn. Kevin Mortenson, who is among the people involved with the project, said 13 people were in attendance.

One new organization was represented at the discussions; the others present were people who attended the first meeting in March or different delegates for groups who attended the first meeting. Scheduling conflicts prevented some people from attending.

“With a bunch of new faces, there’s different ideas and opinions,” said Mortenson in an interview with SaskToday.

It became difficult to come to a consensus on some matters, he said.

Mortenson has been hoping to see a field house, at least one ice surface and

hard-court surfaces for basketball and volleyball constructed. Some at the meeting suggested building something smaller.

“I’m hoping we can get some sort of endorsements from the clubs, and start with that, get some sort of a committee filled, find out what something like this is going to cost,

and get the city behind us. Then we have to sell it to the taxpayers,” said Mortenson.

Reports from the different user groups would explain how the facility would affect the sport, the ways it would enhance the community and what kinds of events they would host.

Mortenson has stressed that this concept is in its preliminary stages, and it isn’t a guarantee to proceed. They don’t have anything from the engineers or the architects. And he doesn’t know how much it would cost, but if the full facility that he envisions were to go ahead, it might have a $50 million price tag.

He vowed he wants to keep the burden on the local taxpayers to a minimum through fundraising efforts and seeking government grants.

“For us to raise money for something like that, there’s going to be some potholes along the way.”

A date for the next meeting has not been set.

He recognizes it will be tough to get everyone together with baseball and soccer starting soon. And he hopes he can have some continuity from the organizations and who attends the meetings.

The vast majority of the feedback has been positive thus far, and Mortenson said he is still very encouraged.

City of Estevan’s motion on mental health approved at SUMA

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

The City of Estevan’s motion for increased mental health supports for communities was approved April 14 by delegates attending the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association’s (SUMA) convention in Saskatoon.

The motion notes mental health and social service needs in Saskatchewan communities continue to increase, placing a significant strain on local resources. It also says the Government of Saskatchewan is increasingly downloading responsibil -

ities for mental health and social services to municipalities, without providing adequate funding.

It goes on to say municipal governments are not equipped with the financial capacity or specialized expertise to manage these essential services, and insufficient support for mental health and social services contributes to worsening social issues, including homelessness, addiction, crime and strain on public safety resources.

The motion asked for SUMA to advocate the provincial government to increase provincial funding

for these supports to alleviate the downloaded burden on local resources, and for SUMA to advocate the government to commit to ongoing collaboration with municipalities on the deployment of mental health and social services resources in communities, to ensure the delivery of these services is both sustainable and effective in addressing community needs.

Coun. Kirsten Walliser spoke to the motion at the convention. She said the city acknowledges the funding from the Ministry of Social Services and the Ministry of Mental Health

and Addictions, and the impact of the Saskatchewan Health and Human Resources Action Plan.

“Despite this, the daily lived experience of our own community members indicates that as a province, we have not yet found the solution. As individual communities, we are still picking up the pieces of a broken system, trying to bridge the gaps, and support those we love,” she said.

“Municipal leaders understand the complexities that accompany ongoing exposure to insecure housing, life with chronic

EWF hosts fundraising supper, celebrates 80

Anastasiia Bykhovskaia SaskToday.ca

The Estevan Wildlife Federation (EWF) hosted its 39th annual fundraising supper on April 13, drawing strong community support to mark not only the fundraiser but also the organization’s 80th anniversary.

“It was fantastic. Everybody had a really good

time, and we raised some good funds to help us with our projects, so we’re very pleased,” said Wanda Michel, president of the local federation.

Held at the Power Dodge Curling Centre, the evening began with a supper, prepared by Spilchuk Meats and Catering.

“They did an amazing job. Everybody really

enjoyed the meal,” Michel said.

Following dinner, the program honoured four longstanding members for their years of volunteer service and contributions to the federation.

“We recognized four individuals for their volunteer contribution to our organization over the years. One was Gord Thompson,

another one was Harvey Hackney, Lionel Bender and Murray Mosley,” Michel said. “Murray Mosley, we also gave him a lifetime membership for 55 years of service on our executive.”

Thompson was recognized for “his many years of dedication to continued maintenance of our gun range.” Hackney received

health concerns, the impact of intergenerational trauma, poverty, unmet mental health needs and insufficient support for those struggling with addictions.”

The city sees potential for improvement, she said. Where opportunities for change exist, she said the beauty of people is embraced and supported by their community and people walk through life’s challenges.

“We provide the parks and paths that support physical and mental wellbeing, we ensure clean drinking water and sani -

tary services. We design the physical layout of our communities that will foster safety and well-being, and we deserve a seat at each and every table where the implementation of these provincial services within our communities is being debated, allocated, implemented and evaluated.”

After she spoke, nobody voiced opposition to the motion, and it was ratified.

The approved resolutions guide SUMA’s advocacy efforts over the next three years.

The convention ended up April 16.

years of conservation

acknowledgement for “his many years of dedication and contributions to habitat development.” Bender was honoured for “his continued dedication and service, holding many executive positions since 1979.” And Mosley received recognition “for his incredible knowledge of wildlife and aquatic life both in southeast Saskatchewan and around the province as well as his involvement on a number of boards and holding many positions over the last 55 years.”

The evening also featured a high-spirited auction.

“We were extremely pleased to have Jason LeBlanc back as our auctioneer. He always makes it so much fun, and everybody really had a good time,”

Michel said. “And the audience, they really made sure that they were supporting our organization.”

Raffles and silent auctions rounded out the evening, giving attendees the chance to go home with an array of prizes while supporting conservation and community initiatives.

“We keep them very busy and send them home with a lot of good items,” Michel said. Despite a slower economy, the federation continues to receive strong backing from the Estevan community.

“Quite honestly, this community does such an incredible job of coming together to support our organization,” Michel said.

Find the entire story on SaskToday.ca

Government expands Legislation to target street weapons and illicit drugs

The Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan introduced House amendments to The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act that will expand the Act to include fentanyl, hypodermic needles and methamphetamine.

Including fentanyl, methamphetamine and hypodermic needles as categories of street weapons recognizes the significant risks these items present to public safety. These amendments follow the government’s prior commitment to implement a comprehensive plan to protect communities from illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine production, transportation, trafficking and street use in the province.

“We are dedicated to creating safer communities for all Saskatchewan residents,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. “This legislation represents a pivotal step in ensuring that public spaces remain places of enjoyment and comfort, free from intimidation, violence caused by street weapons and illicit drugs.”

The government recognizes that many items used as street weapons have legitimate, legal

The Act is expected to be passed during the spring sitting of the Legislative Assembly and come into force this summer after regulations have been finalized. Once in force, the Act will enable municipalities and First Nations to opt in to new rules to regulate the possession, transportation and storage of items potentially used as street weapons, such as large knives, machetes, hypodermic needles and bear spray.

purposes. The legislation contains appropriate exemptions to ensure these items can continue to be used for their lawful purposes, such as medical treatment, food preparation and protection from wildlife threats.

These new rules form part of the government’s multi-ministry approach to safer communities and neighbourhoods, which also includes $11.9 million for approximately 100 new municipal police officers, $2.7 million for 14 new Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) personnel to target nuisance properties, $2.5 million for the Saskatchewan Police College over the next three years, and updating The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act to provide additional options to address nuisance properties.

WSA announces funding for Agricultural Water Management

The Water Security Agency (WSA) announced the Agricultural Water Management Fund is open for applications in 2025. The fund supports agricultural producers and local governments to develop water management projects.

Since 2022, the fund has provided over $2 million to help 93 projects across the province to obtain drainage approvals that support environmental stewardship and agricultural growth in Saskatchewan.

“The Agricultural Water Management Fund supports responsible and sustainable water management in Saskatchewan,” Minister Responsible for the Water Security Agency Daryl Harrison said. “Saskatchewan producers are great stewards of the land, and we know supporting our agricultural sector with programs like this leads to a growing and vibrant province.”

Applicants can receive up to $95,000 per project based on a cost-sharing approach. It can be used for qualified persons support, technical and engineering costs, and mitigation and rehabilitation works for agricultural water management projects.

This program is part of WSA’s ongoing commitment to supporting the agricultural community in developing and maintaining responsible agricultural water management projects in Saskatchewan.

Eligible recipients include:

• Individuals or corporations registered in Saskatchewan who own, lease, or rent property for agricultural production purposes;

• First Nations in Saskatchewan;

• Saskatchewan rural municipalities;

• Conservation and Development Area Au -

thorities;

• Watershed Association Boards; and

• Irrigation Districts. For more information about the Agricultural Water Management Fund, or to apply, please visit: wsask.ca.

In LovingMemory of Greg Nikkel

who passed away on February 22nd, 2025 Age63years

ServiceofRemembrance

Wednesday,April 30, 2025 –1:30pm WeyburnFreeMethodist Church 133 14thSt. N.E

Luncheon to follow the service Interment-H illcrest Cemetery

Email obituaries to: [email protected]

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Ministerial Message: Good Friday and Easter Sunday

Rev. Doug

Loden,

Calvary Baptist Church

The most important events in all history, from the beginning of time, until the present, are the death of Jesus on Good Friday, and the resurrection of Jesus on Easter Sunday. The reason this is so important is because it is God‘s offer of forgiveness of sin. It opens the possibility of being washed clean of all sin and living for eternity in God‘s heaven. No matter how terrible your sin, it can all be washed white as snow. God prepared for this special day through the centuries. Animal sacrifice was the way to find forgiveness from God. Noah offered

sacrifices of clean animals, when he came out of the ark. Abraham often sacrificed to God.Moses had Aaron and the priests offer sacrifices. Prophets and priests offered sacrifices for King David. The animal sacrifices of the Old Testament preparedpeople to understand that forgiveness of sins could come through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross.

The most important decision every person makes in life is about Jesus. The death of Jesus, and the resurrection of Jesus, did this truly happen? Did Jesus take your sin upon himself, and die with your sin so that you could be forgiven? And did Jesus rise

from the dead, so that you might live with the hope of rising from the dead? Every person makes a decision, conscious or unconscious, to believe in Jesus or not believe in Jesus. Your eternity, which is a long time, depends on this decision.

A most important task. So many people don’t knowwhat the Bible says. They don’t know and understand God’s plan for this world. For several years now, I’ve been working on a task. I call it, ‘God’s Message of Hope’.

I’m preparing 10 lessons explaining God’s plan in the Old Testament and 10 lessons explainingGod’s plan in the New Testament.

I tell the story with pictures in a way that is easy to follow, and understand. I want each lesson to be interesting and yet clearly tell God’s wonderful message. I’m going through these messages each Sunday, at Calvary Baptist Church, and it’s my intent to publish these messages in the hope that God would touch some people and call them to believe.

The most important days in the church year are Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Very many people don’t attend a church. Why not make an effort and attend some church this Good Friday? And, why not attend an Easter Sunday service at the church of your choos-

SERVICE DIRECTORY

ing? The Spirit of God is present in the fellowship of his people. Perhaps God might touch you with the truth of the death of Jesus to forgive your sin, and the truth of the resurrection of Jesus to give you hope. The world is full of trouble, and hope is so important.

The most important events in all history, from

the beginning of time, until today are the death of Jesus, for the forgiveness of your sin, and the resurrection of Jesus to give you hope. Everyone need forgiveness, and everyone needs hope. Editor’s note: this Ministerial Message was intended for the April 18th issue, but was delayed due to an email error.

Weyburn Rotary Club hosted container gardening talk

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Learn more at enbridge.com/s askatchewan.

Story by Sharlene Stanley

The Weyburn Rotary Club hosted Jon Michaud of Rough Bark Acres Greenhouse at the Weyburn Legion on April 17. Jill Thorn, Rotary Past-President, welcomed the anxious-for-spring gardeners and provided information on the many ways that the Weyburn Rotary Club helps the Weyburn community.

Gwen Wright introduced Michaud by inviting him to tell his story how his business got started. Quite simply, by accident was his answer! Jon provided a humorous tale of starting with one greenhouse; soon to have another greenhouse to grow for friends and then the idea hit “why not sell some?” And they have been expanding regularly ever since. Rough Bark Greenhouse plants are available this spring at the Prairie Sky Home Center.

Jon Michaud described the proper soil mix, fertilizer requirements and suggested plant varieties that he had success with. Rough Bark staff members, Hunter and Jackie demonstrated the correct way to plant a flower container while Michaud entertained the large crowd of gardeners with stories of his own successes and failures with growing containers on their acreage. A question-andanswer period followed the presentation with many great questions from the crowd.

Raffle tickets were sold on the containers from the demonstration and gift certificates from the Prairie Sky Co-op Home Center and Rough Bark Acres Greenhouse. The winners went home excited to start the spring planting season. Refreshments and wings were served finishing the evening.

Watch for similar future presentations by the Weyburn Rotary Club. Follow Rotary Club of Weyburn on Facebook.