Issuu

FALL/WINTER 2026

WEYBURN & AREA

START WHERE YOU ARE with the Living Market at Old Fashion Foods

Legacy in Motion Why We Stay Shop Local

Fresh • Local • Living

This really isn’t our story,

it’s yours.

It’s the story of people who choose to keep their money local. People who choose a financial cooperative that believes success should benefit the people and communities that helped create it. With every account opened, every loan granted, and every person who chooses Weyburn Credit Union, something bigger begins. What starts as everyday banking becomes support for local projects, community spaces, and opportunities that make a lasting difference.

This isn’t really our story,

it’s yours.

Thanks for making it possible.

www.weyburncu.ca

306 842 6641

SCHUCK LAW FIRM

LEGAL SERVICES for All of Life’s Milestones

SCHUCK LAW FIRM can assist with all your legal needs including: • Residential, Business and Agriculture Real Estate. • Farm Succession Planning, Cash and Crop Share Farm Leases. • Corporate Law – Incorporation, Reorganizations, Sales, Purchases, Lease and Rental Agreements, Annual Maintenance and Record Keeping. • Wills and Estates – Wills, Powers of Attorney, Estate Administration including obtaining letters probate, Trusts, Power of Attorney, Health Care Directives and Proxies. • Adult Guardianship, Separation Agreements, Co-habitation Agreements and Pre-Nuptial Agreements, Step-Parent Adoptions. • Civil Litigation – Debt Collections, Court Actions, Small Claims. • Oil and Gas – Surface Lease Negotiation, Oil and Gas Mineral Lease Negotiation, Mineral Joint Ventures, Mineral Trusts and Holding Corporations. • Notary Public Services.

SCHUCK Steve and Armanda Schuck with their children Alexander and MacKenzie

LAW FIRM

SCHUCK LAW FIRM 21 5th Street, Weyburn | 306.842.2722 | law@schucklawfirm.ca | schucklawfirm.ca | Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

WEYBURN & AREA Volume 12 Issue 1 Fall/Winter 2026 www.refinedweyburn.com

Brooke Ward

Publisher’s Message

s I worked on this issue, I found myself thinking about what makes a community feel like home. I think it's the people we know, the businesses we support, the places where we gather and the traditions we pass down.

Cover Photography Photography by Sherry Lynn Photography Big Dog Photography, Risa Walbaum Photography Photography by Sherry Lynn Contributing Writer Brook Thalgott

Those are the stories and feelings we wanted to capture in this issue. From The Living Market at Old Fashion Foods on our cover and our generational business feature, to community members sharing what they love about Weyburn, why we shop local and a look inside some of the homes of Weyburn, these are stories about the people and places that make our community special. With Christmas just around the corner, I hope this issue inspires you to keep Weyburn and area businesses in mind as you make your holiday shopping plans. As a mom, Christmas feels especially magical to me right now. There is something so special about experiencing the excitement of the season through my kids’ eyes. The lights, the traditions, decorating the tree, baking, crafting and the anticipation of Christmas morning all feel a little more magical when you get to experience them with your children.

Editor/Writer Brook Thalgott

Graphic Design Ghislaine Moffitt

These are the years I know I’ll look back on someday and wish I could have back. So, I’m trying to slow down, soak it in and enjoy the magic. I hope this Christmas brings you plenty of time with the people you love, lots of laughter and a chance to slow down and enjoy the magic of the season.

Brooke

Marketing Executive Darryl Ward refined.darryl@gmail.com

Publisher Brooke Ward refinedweyburn@gmail.com 306.551.4789 Distribution & Subscriptions refinedweyburn@gmail.com

Brooke & Brody Ward with their children Lewynn, Brynn and Maklynn

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Refined Weyburn & Area is published by ReFINEd Lifestyles Magazine Ltd. Refined Weyburn & Area is independently owned and operated. Opinions expressed in Refined Weyburn & Area are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or advertisers. Refined Weyburn & Area does not assume liability for content. All rights reserved © ReFINEd Lifestyles Magazine Ltd. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. For permission contact the publisher.

Brooke & Brody Ward with their children Brynn, Maklynn & Lewynn

MERRY CHRISTMAS As another year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you to my clients, friends, family and everyone who has trusted me to be part of their real estate journey. Whether you were buying your first home, selling a longtime property, investing in farmland or making a move for your business, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with you. Real estate is about much more than buying and selling. It’s about the homes where memories are made, the land we build our futures on, and the places where businesses grow. I’m honoured to be a part of those decisions.

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy New Year.

Brody Ward

RE/MAX Weyburn Realty

Residential • Farmland • Commercial 136A 1st Street NE, Weyburn 306.861.7191 brodyward.realestate@gmail.com weyburnlistings.com

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

CONTENTS

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 1

SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

FINDING STRENGTH TOGETHER - WeyStrong creates connection and support for women facing cancer

DINING: TAKE THE NIGHT OFF - Dinner (or breakfast or lunch) does not need a special occasion

DEPARTMENTS 8 | BUSINESS 44

A legacy in motion - Multigenerational businesses help keep Weyburn and area working, growing and connected

28 | COMMUNITY

Why we stay - What keeps people rooted in Weyburn & area

34 | HOME

Come in - Real homes. Real people. The little things that make a house feel like a home

44 | COVER FEATURE 48

Start where you are - At The Living Market at Old Fashion Foods, wellness feels practical, welcoming and a little easier to fit into everyday life

48 | WELLNESS

Wellness in Weyburn - Your local guide to moving, feeling and living well

75 | AGRICULTURE

Rooted in gratitude, harvested with thanks Celebrating Saskatchewan food, farmers and the bounty shared around the world

80 | DINING 56

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Take the night off - Dinner (or breakfast or lunch) does not need a special occasion

WISHING YOU A VERY

Merry Christmas! The holidays are a wonderful time to slow down, gather with family and appreciate the people who have been part of our journey. We’re so thankful for our customers, friends and the relationships we’ve built along the way. Your trust and support throughout the year mean so much to our family and to everyone at Ag-Activ. From our family to yours, thank you for being part of the Ag-Activ family. We hope your Christmas is filled with good food, laughter, meaningful moments and time spent with the people who matter most. Wishing you a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season, and all the best in the year ahead. PHOTO L-R Juan-co, Larika, Karsten, Andries, Alrika, Lia and Sumone

Ag-Activ | 216 20th Avenue, Weyburn | agactiv.com Andries 306.580.7335 | Alrika 306.465.7605 | Office 306.842.0270

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A legacy in motion

MULTIGENERATIONAL BUSINESSES HELP KEEP WEYBURN AND AREA WORKING, GROWING AND CONNECTED By Brook Thalgott

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ome businesses become more than just a business. They become part of the landscape. The places people remember visiting with their parents, the employers that have provided careers for generations and the names that appear year after year on rink boards, event posters, jerseys and community fundraisers. Across Weyburn and the surrounding area, multigenerational businesses are doing more than keeping family traditions alive. They are creating jobs, supporting local organizations, adapting to changing industries and helping keep money, knowledge and opportunity close to home. Their longevity tells a story, but so does their ability to keep moving forward.

Built to last Running a business for decades takes more than doing things the way they have always been done. Markets can change quickly, sometimes even overnight. Technology moves forward. Customers expect different things in different ways. Entire industries can look dramatically different from one generation to the next. Long-standing local businesses survive because they learn how to evolve while holding onto the values that helped establish them in the first place. One generation may start with a small shop, a single piece of equipment or a handful of employees. The next may introduce new technology, expand services or reach customers far beyond southeast Saskatchewan. A third generation may bring new education, ideas and ways of doing business that were impossible to imagine when the company began. The name may stay the same, but the business keeps moving.

Generations of opportunity The impact reaches beyond the families whose names are on the door. Established businesses create places where other families can build their own futures. Long-term employees gain experience, develop specialized skills and

For Weyburn and area, these businesses offer something difficult to measure but easy to recognize: stability, opportunity and connection. pass their knowledge along to the people joining the team behind them. Some employees stay for decades. Others get their first job, learn a trade or discover a career they did not know existed. That continuity matters. When businesses can offer meaningful work close to home, people have another reason to build their lives here. Those jobs support households, other businesses and the broader economy, creating a ripple that reaches well beyond one workplace.

Showing up for the community

guaranteed. Every generation has to decide the business is worth continuing, then find its own way to contribute. That is what makes these stories more than a look back. They are about founders who took a chance, families who carried that work forward, employees who helped build alongside them and the next generation deciding what comes next. For Weyburn and area, these businesses offer something difficult to measure but easy to recognize: stability, opportunity and connection. Their histories may stretch back decades, but their stories are still being written.

The contribution of a longtime business is not measured only by payroll or years on the calendar. It can also be found in the uniforms, fundraising dinners, community projects, local events, service clubs and organizations they support. Over decades, those individual acts add up. Local businesses often know exactly who benefits because these are the communities where their owners and employees also live, raise families, volunteer and spend their own time. Supporting the community becomes less about promotion and more about participation.

Carrying it forward A family business lasting through two, three or more generations is never

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BUILT TO LAST After 54 years, John Kmita Ltd. continues to carry forward a family legacy built on hard work, strong relationships and the determination to keep going By Brook Thalgott

ome businesses measure time in years. Others measure it in generations. For John Kmita Ltd., 54 years in business tells a story about both.

patch, and one of John’s core beliefs continues to guide the business today. His philosophy was about “good men working with good iron, and treating people well.” Jonathan says that still matters just as much now.

The Weyburn company began in 1972, when John and Sandy Kmita purchased their first service rig from Natchez, Mississippi. John ran the rigs while Sandy managed the books, and together they built a business that would eventually become part of the family story for their children, grandchildren and the many employees who have worked alongside them.

Attitude and willingness to learn are more important than experience. I’m still learning after 40 years of working in the industry. - Jonathan Kmita

“This is still paramount in our philosophy, especially when the market for employees is tough,” he says. That approach shows in the people who have stayed. John Kmita Ltd. has employees who have been with the company for 15, 20 and even more than 30 years. In an industry known for long days, changing markets and demanding work, that kind of loyalty is significant. Jonathan says the reason comes down to relationships. “It’s about treating them like family,” he says. “We spend more time with them than most families get to have, so you need a good relationship and work dynamic.”

Today, the company is owned and operated by brothers Jonathan and Tyler Kmita, the second generation to carry the business forward. When Jonathan looks back at more than five decades of work, the thing he is most proud of is simple. “Continuing our parents’ legacy and building on their successes,” he says.

A philosophy that still matters John and Sandy built the company through the ups and downs of the oil

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John Kmita

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L-R Jonathan and Tyler Kmita PHOTO Big Dog Photography

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Those long-serving employees also carry something that cannot be replaced overnight: experience. Years spent working in the field build practical knowledge about equipment, safety, efficiency and how to respond when conditions change. That experience becomes even more important as younger employees join the company and learn from the people who have been doing the work for decades.

Learning never stops For Jonathan, hiring is not necessarily about finding someone who already knows everything. “Attitude and willingness to learn are more important than experience,” he says. “I’m still learning after 40 years of working in the industry.” That willingness to keep learning has been part of the company’s ability to adapt. Oilfield service work has changed dramatically over the past half-century, from equipment and safety expectations to the pace and economics of the industry itself. Through it all, the goal for customers remains straightforward.

We know how important the oil industry is to our business, but we also want to continue diversifying so the company has opportunities beyond the oil patch and can keep growing for the next generation. - Jonathan Kmita

Jonathan describes good customer service as “safe, quality work in a timely fashion with emphasis on efficiency.” That combination has helped the company build longstanding relationships in southeast Saskatchewan while maintaining the practical, hands-on approach established by John and Sandy.

Through boom and bust Few industries test perseverance quite like oil and gas. John Kmita Ltd. has seen both sides of the cycle many times over the past 54 years. Booms bring opportunity and growth. Downturns can demand difficult choices, patience and the ability to find a way through. Jonathan says the key to surviving those cycles is not complicated. “In the boom and bust of the oil patch, it comes down to perseverance and determination to survive,” he says. That determination has been tested from the company’s earliest years. The Kmitas often joked that every time another rig was purchased, the oil patch seemed ready to hit another downturn. Rig 1 served the company until 1980, followed by Rig 2 and then Rig 3 in 1985. More equipment joined the fleet in later decades, including rigs added in 2010, 2013 and 2019. Through all those changes, the company kept moving forward.

The third generation steps in

L-R John, Jonathan and Tyler Kmita

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The family story is also continuing. Jonathan’s son Dwayne and Tyler’s sons Kobe and Kegan are becoming involved in the business, bringing a third generation of Kmitas into the company their grandparents started.

L-R Jonathan, John and Tyler Kmita

For a business that began with one rig, a husband-and-wife team and plenty of hard work, seeing the next generation take an interest adds another chapter to the story. “There are very few family businesses that make it to the third generation,” Jonathan says. That makes the next stage both meaningful and important. It also creates new questions about where the company goes from here.

Looking beyond the oil patch While well servicing remains central to John Kmita Ltd., Jonathan says the family is also thinking about how to build a business that can continue to thrive in the years ahead.

John Kmita, 2009 Southeast Oilman of the Year

“We know how important the oil industry is to our business, but we also want to continue diversifying so the company has opportunities beyond the oil patch and can keep growing for the next generation,” he says.

change. Markets may rise and fall. New generations may bring different ideas. But the foundation remains familiar: treat people well, do quality work, keep learning and keep going.

That forward-looking approach is part of what has kept the company going for more than half a century. The work may

For John Kmita Ltd., the legacy is not only the company John and Sandy started. It is the team that has stayed, the family that continues to build on

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what they began and the determination to make sure there is something strong enough for the next generation to carry forward.

John Kmita Ltd. Weyburn 306.842.3536

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Be Winter Ready With BARBER MOTORS Weyburn’s locally owned and operated Dealership for 78 years

Our Family Taking Care of Your Family

Advantages of purchasing your winter tires at Barber Motors: • 30-day price match guarantee • complimentary tire rotation and tire repair • FREE tire storage for the first season (just $49.95 per season afterward) • seasonal manufacturer mail-in rebates up to $110

L-R Rod Smith, Darryl Quintyn (Parts Manager), Cameron Klippenstine, Brian Adam and Marco Dalumpines

WHY WINTER TIRES MATTER

Grip When It Counts: Stay flexible and grippy below 7°C .

Bite Into Ice: Thousands of sipes grab snow and ice for added traction.

Push Through Slush: Deep grooves clear snow, slush and water.

• winter tire FINANCING AVAILABLE with your new/pre-owned vehicle sale

Stop Sooner: Designed for more confident braking on winter roads.

Stay in Control: Better traction through turns, stops and acceleration.

Cold weather is on the way!

Your vehicle’s tires are your direct link to the pavement. Weather conditions, driving habits, types of travel, geographical location and personal preferences greatly influence your choice of winter tires. Your safety is paramount, which is why we recommend you speak with one of our tire specialists. Here at Barber Motors, our experts have more than 90 years combined knowledge and will educate you about the winter tires that best suit your circumstances. We are passionate about helping people find what’s right for their vehicles.

#1 Government Road, Weyburn 306.842.6531 | 888.291.3921 www.barbermotors.com Open Monday - Friday 8:00am-6:00pm Saturdays 8:00am-5:00pm

FRONT ROW L-R Marc Henderson (Senior Manager), Kurtis Schwindt (Partner), Melissa Swayze (Partner), Reed Anderson (Partner), Melanie Dammann (Senior Manager) BACK ROW L-R Maeghan Hutchings, Lynette Moore, Mara Baudria (Manager), Ashley Kopp, Shae Johnston, Jaxon Robertson, Merrick Baht, Belinda Mehmal, Melanie Jackson, Chandler Dickie, Deana Carter-Keller (Manager), Franki Nault (Manager)

We wish you a wonderful Christmas filled with time spent with the people who matter most, and a bright and successful year ahead. To our clients and our community, thank you for the trust you place in our team throughout the year. We’re proud to work alongside the people and businesses of Weyburn and area, helping you navigate opportunities, challenges and everything in between. We’re grateful to be part of this community and to build lasting relationships with the people we serve.

SERVICES OFFERED: • Accounting, consulting, tax • Special tax services • Succession/transition planning • Insurance services • HR consulting • External financial accounting services

117 3rd St NE Ste 301, Weyburn, SK | 306.842.8915

GROWING TOGETHER Ag-Activ brings three generations together around family, farming and a business built in Weyburn

By Brook Thalgott

usy season at Ag-Activ can mean manufacturing products, making deliveries, scouting crops and heading out for drone spraying. This year, it also meant welcoming a new baby and putting visiting grandparents to work. For co-owner Andries Van Der Meulen, that mix of business and family is part of what makes Ag-Activ special. Andries owns the Weyburn business with his wife, Alrika. His interest in soil health began while helping on the family farm in South Africa, eventually leading to a career in plant nutrition and an interest in how carbon-based products could become part of practical crop nutrition programs. What began as an interest has grown into a business where the next generation is now bringing its own knowledge and ideas to the table.

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Putting down roots Weyburn became more than a place to build Ag-Activ. It became home for the Van Der Meulen family. “Agriculture is part of the community, and we’ve been able to get to know the farmers we work with,” Andries says. “Those relationships mean a lot to us.” That personal connection remains an important part of the business. A customer stopping in for a product can just as easily end up staying for a conversation. Over time, Andries and Alrika’s children have found their own places within AgActiv. Their daughter Lia, an agronomist, scouts crops and works with customers. Their oldest daughter, Larika, has also worked in the business and returns this fall after she and her husband welcomed a son in June.

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In a family business, everyone steps in where they’re needed. - Andries Van Der Meulen

His mom kept the crew fed, made homemade jam and pitched in with jobs around the blending facility. There were a few laughs too when customers arrived and Andries’ parents did their best to help in English, their third language. “Having them there made the busy days feel a little more like home,” Andries says. The family is also quick to recognize employees Danylo and Carolyn. Danylo handled a record number of deliveries this season, while Carolyn kept the office running and up to date. PHOTO L-R Juan-co, Larika, Karsten, Andries, Alrika, Lia and Sumone

Son-in-law Juan-co takes on a little of everything, with his main responsibility overseeing manufacturing. During busy season, that can also mean deliveries and drone spraying. Their youngest daughter, Sumone, now in Grade 10, steps in wherever there is a gap to fill. “In a family business, everyone steps in where they’re needed,” Andries says.

Bringing something of their own While Andries says parents naturally hope to share something meaningful with their children, he and Alrika wanted their daughters to choose their own paths. Seeing those paths lead back to AgActiv has been rewarding. “They aren’t

just following what we started, they’re helping decide what it can become,” Andries says. The younger generation brings new knowledge, energy and ideas to the business, while also developing relationships of its own with customers. “We’re very proud of them,” Andries says. “It’s rewarding to see them take responsibility, solve problems and build relationships with customers. We learn from them too.”

Three generations pitch in This summer brought another generation into the mix when Andries’ parents visited during one of Ag-Activ’s busiest stretches. It did not take long before they were helping. His dad joined the manufacturing side, assisting with product mixes and custom blends.

Andries’ parents, Johan and Pikkie Van Der Meulen.

Growing the next chapter For Andries, the best part of building Ag-Activ with family is knowing everyone can count on one another when things get busy. He hopes his children eventually remember this time not simply as working in the family business, but as having the opportunity to shape it themselves. “I hope they remember that they had a place here to bring their ideas, work hard and make something their own,” Andries says. And in a season that includes grandparents helping in the blending facility and the arrival of a new grandson, Ag-Activ’s next generation is already part of the story.

PHOTO L-R Lia, Larika, Sumone, Alrika and Andries Van Der Meulen

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Ag-Activ 216 20th Avenue, Weyburn Andries 306.580.7335 Alrika 306.465.7605 Office 306.842.0270 agactiv.com

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BACK ROW L-R Dr. Andrea Clarke, Karla Hadlow (RVT), Dr. Jena Thue, Crystal Ruckaber, Kristin Caldwell (RVT), Lisa Mallory (RVT), Janelle Evans (RVT) and Dr. Jeremy Ross FRONT ROW L-R Dr. Carol Ross, Brooke Herlick (RVT), Mollie Hastings (RVT), Julie Chinski (RVT) and Dr. Karly Lanz MISSING FROM PHOTO Dr. Greg Douglas OUR TEAM HAS GROWN, MISSING FROM PHOTO Melissa Carson, Katryna Lindsay, Macy Cugnet, Ashley Clute

Wishing You a Merry Christmas As another year comes to a close, we’re feeling especially grateful for the community we’re so proud to be a part of.

building may be new, the heart of what we do remains the same: caring for the animals who mean so much to you.

This year brought an exciting new chapter for Prairie Animal Health Centre as we welcomed our patients, clients and their families into our new home in Weyburn. While our

From our team to your family, we wish you a Christmas filled with warmth, joy and plenty of time with the ones you love, including the fourlegged members of your family.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at Prairie Animal Health Centre!

Prairie Animal Health Centre 327 5th Street W, Weyburn 306.910.7242 prairieanimalhealthweyburn.com

www.terrysyamaha.com

Weyburn, SK

Terry’s was selected as a Yamaha Elite Dealership FOR THE FIFTH STRAIGHT YEAR! - Yamaha Canada’s Highest Recognition for their Dealers

Terry’s was One of only 16 Dealers that were selected Five Straight Years and One of only Four from Western Canada! We’re a 3rd Generation Small Family owned Dealership that opened in April of 1968!

We thank our family of great customers for their support!

Yamaha and Our Service, You Can’t Do Better! Terry's Cycle Ltd. | Weyburn SK | 306.842.2711 | www.terrysyamaha.com

L-R Chris & Jayme Payak with their children Jyllian, Logan & Cole. Dustin & Jodie Bell with their children Jack, Brooklyn, Tyler & Natalie. Don & Cindy Bell. Mike & Erin Bell with their children Shelby, Ayla, Bryce, Lydia & Heidi. Luk & Kelsey Bell with their children Emerson & Payton.

BUILT HERE, BUILT TO GROW From five people to more than 70, Souris Valley Industries has grown into a Prairie precast manufacturer while keeping family, opportunity and Weyburn at its foundation By Brook Thalgott

here is a good chance someone has driven past Souris Valley Industries on Highway 39 without realizing just how much is happening inside. Concrete pipe, manholes, bridge components, tanks and pieces of major infrastructure projects all begin taking shape at the Weyburn plant before heading to job sites across Saskatchewan and beyond. For company president Dustin Bell, that is a long way from where his family’s chapter with the company began. Founded by Barry and Gloria Allen in 1977, Souris Valley Industries was purchased by Dustin and his dad in 2005, when it was the two of them and

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three employees. Today, more than 70 people work at SVI. “Sometimes it is hard to believe,” Dustin says. “My family and I have been so fortunate to have such a great group of employees over the years.”

Growing through change Dustin admits what SVI has become was difficult to imagine when he and his dad first took over. “Not in my wildest dreams,” Dustin says. “I did joke a lot about how cool it would be to produce so many product lines thinking we would never get a chance, then it seems like a few years later it becomes reality.”

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The climb has not been smooth, and Dustin does not pretend otherwise. The business has continually adapted its model, added product lines and invested in equipment and technology, sometimes before knowing whether a particular job would be secured. Those risks have come with lessons and helped shape the company’s ability to respond when new opportunities appeared. “There is nothing smooth about the climb we have had, but I would not have it any other way,” Dustin says. “All the issues we have come across have taught us something that has helped for the next speed bump we encounter.”

We are a family owned and operated business that is proud to be from Weyburn, and we will continue to grow and invest here. - Dustin Bell

Through that change, Dustin says two things have consistently helped SVI move forward: service and quality. That includes doing what the company says it will do and building relationships strong enough that customers are willing to give SVI an opportunity. One of the biggest examples came with Mosaic Stadium. SVI was not originally in the running to supply the precast concrete, but when the original arrangement fell through, an existing relationship opened the door. “Our team accomplished what many in the industry thought was out of our reach because of that determination to

produce a high-quality product on time,” Dustin says.

Careers taking shape As SVI has grown, so have the opportunities inside the company. In the early days, a handful of people ran production and one or two employees drove truck. Today there are roles in production, welding, maintenance, engineering, quality, sales, finance, logistics and other areas. For Dustin, watching employees grow into those positions has been one of the most rewarding parts of building the company.

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“A lot of our employee growth has come from within our organization, seeing opportunity in employees that are ready to move up and take on a lot more responsibility,” Dustin says. A department that once needed one welder now has four, creating opportunities to hire students and apprentices and help them work toward becoming journeypersons. Similar career paths continue to emerge elsewhere as SVI grows. “What I am finding is that as we grow, we develop more departments that require many different abilities and offer more opportunities for employees to

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“When we bought the company, a lot of products we now build were coming in from outside the province. We are very proud to say that has changed significantly over the past 20 years, and a large percentage of those products are now built here in Saskatchewan.” - Dustin Bell

grow their careers,” Dustin says. “We are a small-town business with big aspirations for the future.”

Keeping the culture Growth also brings the challenge of holding onto the culture that helped get a business there. For Dustin and his family, that matters.

With employees from a variety of cultures and backgrounds working together, Dustin says that sense of team remains one of the company’s strengths. “We understand that our culture is the cornerstone to our success,” Dustin says.

Made in Weyburn

SVI continues traditions including its annual golf tournament and Christmas party, along with smaller team-building events throughout the year. The company also puts personality at the centre of its hiring decisions, with Dustin saying it is important to build a team that gets along and enjoys coming to work.

So, what exactly happens inside SVI? Precast concrete is manufactured indoors in a controlled environment rather than poured and cured entirely at the construction site. Products are built to engineered specifications, go through quality assurance processes and can then be transported to where they are needed.

“Our belief is we can train skills and knowledge, but not personality,” Dustin says.

SVI’s current product range includes concrete pipe, manholes, catch basins, septic and holding tanks, water cisterns,

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box structures, barriers, hollow-core products and bridge components. The company’s catalogue also identifies SVI as a certified quality-assurance plant for bridge, commercial structural and drainage products. Much of that work eventually disappears underground, which is one reason people may not recognize just how far SVI’s products travel. The company ships throughout Saskatchewan and into Manitoba and Alberta, while Dustin says its furthest delivery has reached Norman Wells in the Northwest Territories. There are more visible projects too. SVI supplied walls and bleacher components for Mosaic Stadium and has manufactured bridge girders for projects including bridges over Wascana Creek on Regina’s Ring Road.

For Dustin, there is particular pride in knowing more of that work is now being done at home.

the family business forward while continuing to invest in its people, products and home community.

“When we bought the company, a lot of products we now build were coming in from outside the province,” Dustin says. “We are very proud to say that has changed significantly over the past 20 years, and a large percentage of those products are now built here in Saskatchewan.”

“We are a family owned and operated business that is proud to be from Weyburn,” Dustin says, “and we will continue to grow and invest here.”

Proudly from Weyburn Nearly two decades after his family purchased SVI, Dustin says he is proud of the reputation the company has built for reliability and quality, along with its support for charities and organizations around Saskatchewan.

From a five-person operation to a company sending Weyburn-made products across the Prairies, SVI’s story is still one of growth. The scale may be different now, but family, people and the community it calls home remain at its foundation.

ROOM TO GROW As SVI grows, new roles and career paths continue to open up across the company. From production and welding to engineering, quality, sales and logistics, employees have opportunities to learn, take on more responsibility and build a career without leaving Weyburn.

Intersection 13 & 39 Range Road 2150 on Highway 39, Weyburn 306.842.5854 Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

SVI is now owned and operated by Dustin and his two brothers Mike and Luk, carrying

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THE ADVANTAGE OF STARTING NOW

Ten years earlier. $186,000 further. THE ADVANTAGE OF STARTING Same starting amount. Same monthly habit.NOW More time to grow.

Ten years earlier. $186,000 further. Same starting amount. Same monthly habit. More time to grow.

LEFT TO RIGHT

Back: Desiree Rainey, Rhonda Porter, Curtis Robertson, Kyle Paterson, Jennifer Benning, Teresa Boyla. THEOnstad, ADVANTAGE STARTING NOW Front: Chris Michel, Adrian Miller, Mike MichaelOFHoffman

Ten years earlier. $186,000 further.

$10,000 to startBack: + $100 monthly until age 65 LEFT TO RIGHT Desiree Rainey, Rhonda Porter, Curtis Robertson, Kyle Paterson, Jennifer Benning, Teresa Boyla. START AT 20 $400k

$400,000

Front: Chris Michel, Adrian Miller, amount. Mike Onstad, Michael Hoffman Same starting Same monthly habit. More time to grow.

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START AT 30

$10,000 to start + $100 monthly until age 65 $200k

$214,000 $400,000 START AT 20

$100k $400k $0 $300k $200k

Age

$214,000

$100k

A small habit. A 30meaningful40head start.50 20

START AT 30

Building wealth doesn’t have to start with a large amount. Age Sometimes the biggest advantage is simply starting sooner.

And getting started can be easy. A pre-authorized contribution plan lets you invest a set amount automatically each month, helping you build your savings consistently without having to In this example, investing $10,000 at age 20 and adding $100 think about it. each month grows to approximately $400,000 by age 65. Building wealth doesn’t have to start with a large amount. And getting started can be easy. A pre-authorized contribution Starting the same plan at age 30 grows to about $214,000. Our local CFP professionals can help you decide how much to Sometimes the biggest advantage is simply starting sooner. plan lets you invest a set amount automatically each month, save, choose investments that fit your goals, and make sure helping you build your savings consistently without having to That ten-year head start means contributing only $12,000 In this example, investing $10,000 at age 20 and adding $100 your investments work alongside the rest of your financial think about it. Benning, Teresa Boyla. more LEFT over ending up approximately $186,000 TO time, RIGHT butBack: Desiree Rainey,$400,000 Rhonda Porter, Curtis Paterson, Jennifer each month grows to approximately by age 65.Robertson, Kyleplan. further ahead. The reason is simple: the longer your money is Front: Adrian Onstad, Michael Hoffman Starting the same plan atChris age Michel, 30 grows to Miller, aboutMike $214,000. Our local CFP professionals can help you decide how much to invested, the more time it has to grow. Whether you’re just getting started or already investing, a save, choose investments that fit your goals, and make sure That ten-year head start means contributing only $12,000 second opinion can help make sure you’re on the right track. your investments work alongside the rest of your financial $10,000 to start + $100 monthly until age 65 START AT 20 more over time, but ending up approximately $186,000 plan. $400k further a ahead. reason opinion. is simple: the longer your money is Book freeThe second $400,000 invested, the more time it has to grow. Whether you’re just getting started or already investing, a $300k weyburnsecurity.ca START AT second opinion can help make sure you’re on30the right track.

A small habit. A meaningful head start.

$200k

$214,000

Hypothetical 6% effective annual return, compounded monthly; month-end deposits. Values rounded to nearest $1,000. Before fees, taxes and inflation. Returns vary; losses are $100k possible. Regular investing does not guarantee profit. Mutual funds distributed through PEAK Investment Services. Insurance through Weyburn Security.

Book a free second opinion. $0

weyburnsecurity.ca 20

11130 2nd Street NE, Weyburn, SK 40 | 306-842-2841

50 60 65 Age Hypothetical 6% effective annual return, compounded monthly; month-end deposits. Values rounded to nearest $1,000. Before fees, taxes and inflation. Returns vary; losses are possible. Regular investing does not guarantee profit. Mutual funds distributed through PEAK Investment Services. Insurance through Weyburn Security.

A small habit. A meaningful head start.

MARKET PERSPECTIVE, WITH SOMEONE IN YOUR CORNER

Stay invested. Stay on track. A financial plan helps keep short-term market noise from disrupting long-term goals.

17 of 20

calendar years were positive for the S&P 500 from 2006-2025.*

S&P 500 annual total returns, 2006-2025

Total return, including reinvested dividends

-4.4% -18.1%

25 20

24 20

22 20

20 20

18 20

16 20

14 20

12 20

10 20

08 20

-37.0%

Why the plan matters

Keep the long term in view

Markets move every day, and headlines change constantly. Long-term investing is rarely about reacting to this week's news or predicting what happens next. From 2006 through 2025, the S&P 500 produced a negative total return in only three calendar years - a period that included the Global Financial Crisis, a global pandemic, rising rates and inflation. Investors who stayed invested participated in the recoveries and growth that followed.

Past performance does not guarantee future results, and markets will decline from time to time. That is why a financial plan matters. A good plan considers your retirement goals, income needs, time horizon and comfort with market fluctuations. It provides a framework for making decisions when markets become uncertain - so short-term volatility is less likely to pull a long-term plan off course. ADVISORS / LEFT TO RIGHT

Chris Michel, CFP, CPA Financial Advisor

Adrian Miller, CFP Financial Advisor Assistant Manager

Mike Onstad, CFP Financial Advisor Managing Director

Michael Hoffman, CFP Financial Advisor

Let's make sure your plan is still on track. Book a free second opinion with our local CFP professionals.

weyburnsecurity.ca

111 2nd Street NE, Weyburn, SK | 306-842-2841

*S&P 500 total-return data, 2006-2025. Total return includes reinvested dividends. Past performance does not guarantee future results. This material is general information and is not individual investment advice. Mutual funds distributed through PEAK Investment Services. Insurance through Weyburn Security.

L-R Tom and Steve Schuck PHOTO Photography By Sherry Lynn

BUILT ON EXAMPLE

At Schuck Law Firm, family influence, community roots and a commitment to doing things properly continue across generations By Brook Thalgott

ome lessons make more sense with time. For Schuck Law Firm’s Steve Schuck, understanding the example set by his father came gradually. As a child, he remembers seeing him work at the dining room table, preparing documents, reviewing materials and making edits. Only later did Steve understand the care and responsibility behind that work. “Looking back, what stands out is how dedicated he was to his practice and to his clients,” Steve says. “He wanted things done properly, but he was also always looking for ways to make the practice more efficient, faster and more accurate.”

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That example eventually became part of Steve’s own approach to law.

Finding his own way Steve grew up in a family where education and hard work were strongly encouraged, but not everyone followed the same path. His sister Anne-Marie became a civil engineer, his brother Matt became a doctor, and his brother Paul became both a chartered professional accountant and chartered financial analyst. Brothers Joe and Mark, like Steve and their father, graduated from the University of Saskatchewan College of Law.

BUSINESS

For Steve, the path toward law became clearer during his final years at Weyburn Comprehensive High School, where teacher Kelly Glaspey coached the debate club. “That was where I really discovered how much I enjoyed persuasive argument, developing a position, supporting it with evidence and trying to convince someone of your point of view,” Steve says. His father’s influence was always there too, as Steve watched how seriously he took his work and his commitment to his clients.

Relationships that last Weyburn has also shaped Steve into a practical, relationship-focused lawyer. “In a smaller community, your clients are your neighbours, people you serve with on boards, people you see at extra-curriculars for your kids, at community events or around town,” he says. Those relationships can stretch across years and generations. Steve may help someone buy a first home, later incorporate a business, prepare an estate plan and eventually assist the family with an estate. L-R Joe, Steve, Mark and Tom Schuck — all graduates of the University of Saskatchewan College of Law

Lessons carried forward

Choosing home

Two qualities from his father continue to stand out — his work ethic and conscientiousness. “Dad has always taken his responsibilities seriously and believed that if something was worth doing, it was worth doing properly,” Steve says.

After law school, Steve considered other options, including Calgary, where his brother Joe was working at the time. In the end, family, friends and the opportunity to work alongside his father brought him back to Weyburn.

There was another lesson too. “He also lives and dies by checklists,” Steve says. “Legal work often involves a number of small but important steps, and a good system helps ensure that nothing gets missed.” That practical mindset has stayed with Steve throughout his own career.

“It was the right decision because I got to work closely with my dad before he retired, an experience I wouldn’t trade away for a lifestyle in a bigger centre,” Steve says. Today, that decision feels even more rooted. Steve is married with two young sons of his own, and his wife Armanda works alongside him in the practice.

Steve also stays involved through organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, Weyburn Group Home Society and Weyburn MMA Club. “Weyburn has given me a lot, both personally and professionally, and I have always felt a responsibility to contribute to the community in return,” Steve says. For the Schuck family, the legacy is not simply about sharing a profession. It is about the values passed from one generation to the next. Serving clients Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at schucklawfirm.ca and follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

SCHUCK LAW FIRM

Schuck Law Firm 21 5th Street Weyburn 306.842.2722 schucklawfirm.ca

Steve and Armanda Schuck with their children Alexander and MacKenzie PHOTO Big Dog Photography

BUSINESS

*The legal information provided herein is general in nature and may not be applicable to your specific circumstances. Always contact a lawyer prior to signing a contract for the purchase or sale of land. This is a commercial solicitation.

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COMMUNITY

WHY WE STAY What keeps people rooted in Weyburn & area By Brook Thalgott

eyburn has plenty to be proud of, but sometimes the best way to understand what makes a community special is to ask the people who choose to build their lives here.

For some, Weyburn is home because it always has been. For others, it is a place they returned to after time away. And for a few, it is a place they discovered almost by accident, only to realize they had found exactly what they were looking for. Lindsee and Olivia Michel on growing up, giving back and finding home in Weyburn For Lindsee Michel, Weyburn is more than the place she lives. It is the community that has supported her through business ownership, volunteering, raising a family and every unexpected turn along the way. Lindsee moved to Weyburn from Manitoba as a child, left briefly for postsecondary education and eventually

returned to build a life with her husband, Chris. Together, they raised Olivia and Ben, built businesses and spent countless hours volunteering in the community. “I love this community from the depths of my innards,” Lindsee says. “Weyburn has given me incredible opportunities, and it has supported me in pursuing them.” That support became even more meaningful as a parent. Lindsee watched her children try different activities, learn from coaches and mentors and eventually pursue opportunities beyond Weyburn. She and Chris always encouraged their kids to leave, see more of the world and make their own choices about where home might eventually be. “This community helped me raise my kids,” Lindsee says. “It supported their dreams, celebrated their successes and continues to support them as they now return and share their own passions with the community that helped shape them.” For Olivia, coming back has brought that lesson full circle. “They say it takes a village to raise great people, and Weyburn has been that village for me,” Olivia says. “After moving away, coming back felt like coming home.” Lindsee knows Weyburn is not perfect. “But it is my kind of imperfect,” Lindsee says. And after all these years, that is exactly why she stays. Dora Ho on choosing a slower pace, finding community and building something new in Weyburn Dora Ho did not grow up in Weyburn. In fact, before 2023, she had never even heard of it. Born in Ontario and raised mostly in Vancouver, Dora built a career around food, from catering and baking to teaching culinary arts. But after a 2022 visit to southeast Saskatchewan with her daughter, Milly, something shifted. Small-town life felt simpler, quieter and full of possibility.

Lindsee and Olivia Michel

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On the drive back to Vancouver, Dora found herself thinking about what she would miss if she left the West Coast, but also what she would not.

COMMUNITY

Dora and Milly Ho

A few months later, while looking at a map of Saskatchewan, her finger landed on Weyburn. That chance moment led to new connections, including Gina Bowler, who invited Dora and Milly to visit. Prairie hospitality quickly became real, and by spring 2023 Dora had traded her onebedroom Vancouver condo for a heritage home in Weyburn. “There are so many things I love about Weyburn,” Dora says. “I love the sunshine here, especially in the winter. I love that everything in Weyburn is so close. There are days on end that I don’t need to get into my car.” The move also gave Dora the chance to homeschool Milly, slow down and build a different kind of life together. That life eventually inspired M & D Mercantile, an artisan organic sourdough bakery and handcrafted goods business that brings together Dora’s years of catering, baking and teaching with Milly’s growing passion for watercolour art. When people warned Dora that leaving Vancouver’s housing market might make it hard to return, her answer was simple. “That’s perfect because I don’t want back in,” Dora says. For Dora, staying in Weyburn is about more than leaving something behind. It is about what she and Milly have been able to build here. Whether someone has deep roots here or finds Weyburn later in life, the reasons to stay often come back to the same things: connection, opportunity, community and the feeling that this is a place where a good life can take shape.

THE CELTIC TENORS: A CELTIC CHRISTMAS

elebrate the magic of the season with one of the world’s most beloved vocal groups as The Celtic Tenors bring A Celtic Christmas to the Cugnet Centre on Wednesday, November 25, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. As part of their highly anticipated Canadian tour, international stars Matthew Gilsenan, Daryl Simpson, and George Hutton will deliver an unforgettable evening of music that seamlessly blends Irish heritage, festive traditions, and world-class vocal artistry. Renowned for their captivating stage presence and extraordinary harmonies, The Celtic Tenors have delighted audiences around the globe with performances that are as entertaining as they are impressive. This special Christmas program promises something for everyone. Audiences will be transported through a rich repertoire of beloved holiday

classics, traditional Celtic ballads, and contemporary favourites, all performed with the trio’s signature warmth and elegance. Whether rekindling treasured memories or creating new ones, the music is sure to inspire the spirit of the season. What truly sets The Celtic Tenors apart is their remarkable ability to connect with audiences. Often described as a “high-wire act of charm,” the trio combines technical excellence with infectious humour, engaging storytelling, and genuine camaraderie. Their performances are more than concerts, they are shared experiences filled with laughter, reflection, and joy. Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to embrace the wonder of Christmas, A Celtic Christmas is a heartwarming celebration of culture, tradition, and song. Start your holiday season with an evening of exceptional entertainment and timeless music that will leave you feeling uplifted long after the final note.

COMMUNITY

November 25, 2026 | 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.celtic-tenors.com

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: www.showpass.com or scan QR code below TICKET INFORMATION: Nancy: 306.861.5124 Judy: 306.861.3241 FIND OUT MORE AT: www.weyburnconcertseries.ca Weyburn Concert Series or call Judy: 306.861.3241

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OKTOPUS

xperience a musical journey unlike any other when Oktopus takes the stage at the Cugnet Centre on Monday, January 25, 2027, at 7:30 p.m. As the celebrated ensemble marks its 15th anniversary and showcases music from its latest release, Brahms, Balkans & Bagels, audiences are invited to discover the fascinating connections between folklore and the great works of classical music. Recognized as one of Canada’s leading world music ensembles, Oktopus has captivated audiences with more than 300 performances across Canada and around the world. The award-winning group is rooted in klezmer, the rich musical heritage of Eastern European Jewish culture, while drawing inspiration from a wide variety of influences. Their distinctive sound weaves together classical masterworks, Quebecois traditions, jazz improvisation, and vibrant

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Balkan rhythms into a performance that is both innovative and deeply moving. Comprised of eight exceptional musicians, Oktopus delivers a concert experience that is as technically impressive as it is emotionally engaging. Their music effortlessly shifts between lively celebrations and poignant reflections, creating a performance filled with contrast, energy, and heart. Along the way, audiences are treated to entertaining stories, humour, and insights that bring the music to life and deepen the connection to its cultural roots. Brahms, Balkans & Bagels explores how folk traditions have inspired composers for generations, revealing the timeless power of music to transcend borders and bring people together. Whether you are a fan of classical music, world music, or simply enjoy discovering something new, this unique performance promises an evening of artistry, passion, and unforgettable entertainment.

COMMUNITY

January 25, 2027 | 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.oktopus.ca

THE ARROGANT WORMS

et ready for an evening of laughter, music, and pure Canadian comedy when The Arrogant Worms take the stage on Saturday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. This legendary trio has spent more than three decades entertaining audiences by finding humour in everyday life and turning it into unforgettable songs that have become Canadian classics. What began at Queen’s University in 1991 as a side project for members of the student cabaret group The Queen’s Players quickly evolved into one of Canada’s most beloved comedy acts. Since then, Chris Patterson, Mike McCormick, and Trevor Strong have toured tirelessly across Canada and around the world, building a devoted fan base and releasing an impressive 14 albums along the way. The Arrogant Worms have earned a reputation for their clever songwriting, sharp wit, and uniquely Canadian perspective. Their music has been heard

on radio stations, across the internet, and even beyond Earth itself, with songs broadcast aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. Few performers can claim to have reached audiences both around the globe and in outer space. Fans can look forward to hearing many of the group’s best-known songs, including the iconic “The Last Saskatchewan Pirate,” a crowd favourite that has been covered by numerous artists and continues to delight audiences wherever it is performed. Blending comedy, storytelling, and catchy melodies, The Arrogant Worms create a live experience that keeps audiences laughing from beginning to end. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, this family-friendly performance promises an entertaining evening filled with humour, nostalgia, and unforgettable music. Don’t miss the chance to see one of Canada’s most enduring and celebrated comedy acts live on stage.

COMMUNITY

March 20, 2027 | 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www.arrogantworms.com

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THE JOHNER BROTHERS

ountry music fans are in for a special evening when The Johner Brothers return to the stage at the Cugnet Centre on Saturday, April 10, 2027, at 7:30 p.m. After more than two decades apart, one of Canada’s most celebrated country music duos is reuniting to bring audiences the music, energy, and exceptional showmanship that made them household names across the country. When brothers Brad and Ken Johner burst onto the Canadian country music scene in 1991, they quickly captured the hearts of fans and critics alike. Named Duo of the Year by the Canadian Country Music Association, they launched an extraordinary career that produced six hit albums, 26 charting singles, and a remarkable collection of industry awards. Their success culminated with the prestigious title of Entertainer of the Decade, cementing their place among Canada’s country music legends.

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Although Ken retired from the music industry in 2002, Brad continued to build an impressive solo career of his own, releasing six acclaimed albums and earning recognition as Male Artist of the Year. Now, for the first time in twenty years, the brothers are once again sharing the stage, bringing together decades of musical experience and the chemistry that made them such a beloved act.

April 10, 2027 | 7:30 p.m.

Backed by two of Brad’s sons, this new chapter for The Johner Brothers offers a fresh take on the sound and style fans have always appreciated. Audiences can expect outstanding musicianship, heartfelt performances, and the engaging stage presence that has long defined these consummate professionals and true gentlemen of country music.

TICKET INFORMATION: Nancy: 306.861.5124 Judy: 306.861.3241

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering their music for the first time, this reunion concert promises an unforgettable evening celebrating some of the very best in Canadian country music.

COMMUNITY

For more information visit www.johnerbrothers.com

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT: www.showpass.com or scan QR code below

FIND OUT MORE AT: www.weyburnconcertseries.ca Weyburn Concert Series or call Judy: 306.861.3241

Custom Windows & Doors Built in Weyburn Sask

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HOME

Come In Real homes. Real people. The little things that make a house feel like a home By Brook Thalgott

home can be beautifully designed, carefully decorated and full of thoughtful details. But the things people remember most are often less polished. They are the blankets on the couch, the coffee by the window, the laughter around the table and the view that lets a parent keep an eye on kids playing outside. Those are the details that turn rooms into something more.

Where everyday life happens

Lisa Webb

History and hospitality For Colleen Roettger, home is found in spaces that feel connected to both the people who gather there today and the history of the house itself. Her dining room is one of those places.

“I love my dining room. There’s something about this space that feels like home,” Colleen says. “It’s where many of our family memories were made.” Celebrations bring everyone around the table to share stories, connection

For Lisa Webb, that place is the living room. “My favourite room in our house will always be the living room,” Lisa says. “It’s the heart of our home and where so much of our everyday life happens.” That everyday life includes toys, little voices, laughter, blankets piled on the couch and pillow forts taking over the floor. “It’s not always tidy, and it definitely isn’t always quiet, but it’s ours. It’s where we spend time together and where some of my favourite moments happen without us even realizing it.” There is something familiar in that. The room does not have to be magazineperfect to be the one everyone gravitates toward.

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Colleen Roettger

HOME

“My porch is where I greet new visitors to my house. I love that it’s warm and welcoming. I hope it feels like a big smile from the street.” - Colleen Roettger and laughter, adding new memories to a room that already carries plenty. “I love the history in this space, from my family and from the families before me,” Colleen says. That appreciation for the past continues onto her porch, the first space visitors encounter when they arrive. “My porch is where I greet new visitors to my house. I love that it’s warm and welcoming. I hope it feels like a big smile from the street.” For Colleen, part of the porch’s charm is that it feels true to the character of the home. “The space feels authentic to the house,” she says. “I can visualize someone in 1930 sitting on this porch enjoying a cup of coffee.” Together, the two spaces tell much the same story: home is about welcoming people in, gathering together and adding your own memories to the ones already there.

Brooke Ward

“The island is where we gather to snack, bake, craft and visit. It has become the heart of our home when we have friends and family over.” - Brooke Ward

The heart of the home For Brooke Ward, the kitchen brings together light, warmth and the rhythms of family life. Large windows fill the room with natural light and offer a view of nearly the entire yard. A wood ceiling and hammered copper sink add warmth and character, while the deck just outside makes it easy to watch her daughters play. “The island is where we gather to snack, bake, craft and visit,” Brooke says. “It has become the heart of our home when we have friends and family over.” There is also a small seating area with a couch in front of one of the windows. “I love sitting there with a coffee, snuggling with my girls or chatting with my husband,” Brooke says.

HOME

What makes it home The favourite room is different for everyone, but the reason tends to be the same. It is not simply the furniture, finishes or layout. It is what happens there. A house begins to feel like home when the spaces inside it collect stories, routines, celebrations and ordinary moments. The rooms people love most are often the ones that are most lived in. And that may be the best kind of decorating there is.

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Start with the conversation DSI Contracting helps clients turn early ideas, rough budgets and big plans into practical next steps By Brook Thalgott

project does not need to be fully figured out before the first conversation begins. Whether someone has a piece of land, a rough budget or simply an idea of what they want to build, DSI Contracting co-owner Kristen Iversen says that is often enough to get started. “Having a starting point, whether it is your goal budget or your goal design, is key to knowing the next steps,” Kristen says. For residential and commercial clients alike, those early conversations can help shape what is possible before too much time or money is invested in the wrong direction.

Start with the big picture Before deciding on finishes, layouts or construction details, Kristen says clients should first understand what they are comfortable spending and what they want the finished project to accomplish. That can mean speaking with a financial institution, looking closely at long-term goals and deciding where the comfortable budget really sits. “A bank’s green light doesn’t always match a homeowner’s long-term vision,” Kristen says. From there, DSI can help clients work through questions about where to build, what to build and how location may affect cost. Building in a rural municipality, city or resort community can come with different considerations. The team can also walk clients through previously completed homes or commercial spaces and talk through wish lists to better understand the end goal. Kristen says investing in preliminary

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HOME

Prairie Animal Health Centre

drawings is also an important part of the process. “AI and social media platforms have opened up incredible creative possibilities,” Kristen says. “We take those inspirations and ground them in practical, real-world execution that guarantees the final result perfectly matches both their vision and their budget.”

Budget belongs at the beginning Being open about budget early can save time and money later. “Transparency on budget and timeline, and wants versus needs, are imperative to the success of a project and the builder-client relationship,” Kristen says. If those conversations happen before design work begins, DSI can help shape the project around what the client can realistically afford instead of creating plans that later need to be redrawn. “Getting drawings completed is an investment, and if there is no talk on budget before those start, that could result in a lot of extra revisions or even having to start over,” Kristen says. DSI’s experience across residential and commercial construction also allows the team to draw on lessons from previous builds, including construction

techniques, materials and approaches that may help keep a project aligned with its goals.

One team, one process DSI can manage 100 per cent of your project, including drawings, engineering, permits, utility applications, civil construction, site layout, construction, interior design, customer support and warranties. That full-service approach can mean a faster moving project that reduces gaps between design and construction.

The New Weyburn Theatre

their collaboration is what helps keep things moving forward. “We always have the client’s budget and goals at top of mind,” Kristen says. “Our company is built on relationships, honesty and good workmanship.” The first step may simply be knowing where you want to end up. From there, DSI can help figure out the path forward.

For commercial clients, DSI possesses the capacity to deliver diverse projects, including municipal buildings, commercial shops, office tenant improvements, and largescale renovations, and much more. DSI successfully leads projects from inception or collaborates seamlessly with architects and design firms. “We partner with numerous design firms to execute a broad spectrum of projects, offering the flexibility to integrate into your process at any stage.” Kristen says.

Bring the idea

Justin and Kristen with their daughters

A client does not need all the answers before reaching out. DSI is accustomed to stepping in at different stages, and

DSI Contracting 1530 1st Avenue NW, Weyburn 306.842.0145 Dsicontracting.ca

HOME

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Celebrating the Season & Saying Thank You

he holiday season is a time

about new beginnings, growing families,

to reflect on the people and

changing seasons of life and finding a

moments that make our

place that feels like home. We are grateful

community special. As we look

for every opportunity to be part of those

back on another year, we want to take a moment to say thank you to the clients, families, friends and neighbours who have trusted us to be part of their real estate journeys.

moments. From all of us at RE/MAX Weyburn Realty, thank you for your continued support and confidence in our team. We are proud to call Weyburn and area home and even

Buying or selling a property is about

prouder to serve the people who make this

so much more than a transaction. It’s

community so special.

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year.

RESIDENTIAL | FARMLAND | COMMERCIAL

Wherever Life Takes You, We’re Here to Help When the time comes to make your next real estate move, experience matters. Our team brings knowledge of the Weyburn and area market, along with the experience and personal service to help guide you through every step.

Winston Bailey Broker/Owner 306.861.2463

Bree Patterson Associate Broker 306.861.7478

Whether you’re searching for your dream home, buying or selling farmland or looking for a commercial property, our team is here to listen, answer your questions and help you navigate the process with confidence. With a team of experienced REALTORS® working together, we’re able to bring different perspectives, local knowledge and a commitment to our clients to every transaction.

Chad Bailey Associate Broker 306.861.5163

Brody Ward 306.861.7191

Renée Johner 306.861.3528

Lisa Dennis 306.861.3194

Whatever your real estate goals may be, we’re here to help you find the right opportunity — and the right place to call home.

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Laura Nieviadomy 306.861.0464

Zoe Buchanan 306.861.1616

RE/MAX Weyburn Realty 2011 136A 1st Street NE Weyburn 306.848.1000 weyburnlistings.com

EXPERIENCE | LOCAL KNOWLEDGE | HERE FOR YOU

BUILD ON SOLID GROUND Legal planning can help protect your business as it changes By Brook Thalgott

rowth can look different from one business to the next. It might mean incorporating a sole proprietorship, buying a company, moving into a commercial property, adding a shareholder or taking on financing to make the next step possible. Whatever form it takes, Steve Schuck of Schuck Law Firm says legal planning helps business owners understand what they’re agreeing to before decisions become difficult or expensive to unwind.

KNOW WHEN THE STRUCTURE NEEDS TO CHANGE

“Business deals can involve a lot of moving parts,” says Steve. “The goal is to make sure the structure, documents and expectations are clear from the beginning.”

“There isn’t one magic point where every business should incorporate,” says Steve. “It depends on the business, the risks involved and what the owner wants to do next.”

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Many businesses start as sole proprietorships, but that structure may not always suit where the business is headed. As a business grows, an owner may want to consider whether incorporating makes sense. A corporation is a separate legal entity, which can affect liability, taxation, financing, ownership and succession. It also brings additional record-keeping and filing responsibilities.

HOME

Because incorporation can have both legal and tax implications, Steve recommends discussing the decision with both a lawyer and an accountant before making the change.

KNOW WHAT COMES WITH THE DEAL When a business changes hands, the purchase price is only one part of the conversation. A lawyer can help review contracts, leases, corporate records and other documents while identifying what is actually being purchased. A deal involving company shares can carry different considerations than one involving specific business assets. For a seller, keeping corporate records and the company minute book current

how major situations will be handled before they happen.

“Business deals can involve a lot of moving parts. The goal is to make sure the structure, documents and expectations are clear from the beginning.” - Steve Schuck

A unanimous shareholders agreement can set out what happens when a shareholder wants to leave, dies, wants to sell shares or disagrees with other owners about a major business decision. “It gives everyone a framework to work from,” says Steve. “Having those conversations while people are getting along can prevent a lot of uncertainty later.” The same thinking applies when a new partner or shareholder joins an established business. Roles, responsibilities, ownership expectations and possible exit arrangements are easier to sort out at the beginning than after a disagreement develops.

GIVE COMMERCIAL PROPERTY A CLOSER LOOK can also make the transaction easier to navigate. “You want both sides to understand exactly what is included and what obligations may continue after the sale,” says Steve.

READ BEFORE YOU BORROW Business growth often requires financing. Loan agreements may come with guarantees, security documents and other obligations that deserve more than a quick signature. A legal review can help a borrower understand what the lender requires, what assets may be used as security and what responsibilities continue throughout the loan. “Financing documents can be detailed,” says Steve. “It is important to understand what you are committing to before you sign.”

PLAN FOR MORE THAN THE GOOD DAYS When a company has multiple shareholders, it is important to decide

Purchasing a building, storefront, office or other commercial property can give a business more control over its future, but the property itself needs careful review. That can include checking title, zoning, registered interests and other issues that may affect how the property can be used. “A property may look like the right fit, but the legal review helps determine whether there are restrictions or concerns that need to be addressed before closing,” says Steve. Whether a business is incorporating, changing hands, financing its next stage, adding or removing owners, or purchasing property, Schuck Law Firm can help put the legal pieces in place.

Steve Schuck PHOTO Photography By Sherry Lynn

Serving clients Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more at schucklawfirm.ca and follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.

SCHUCK LAW FIRM

Schuck Law Firm 21 5th Street Weyburn 306.842.2722 schucklawfirm.ca

Let’s Talk Contact Steve Schuck and the team to discuss the next move for your business.

HOME

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MOVE-IN READY. THE KEYS ARE READY WHEN YOU ARE.

161 DELEAT DRIVE WEYBURN, SK

BEAUTIFULLY FINISHED. THOUGHTFULLY BUILT. READY TO CALL HOME.

NOW FOR SALE

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REALTOR FOR DETAILS.

Thank You

TO OUR CLIENTS & COMMUNITY From our family to yours, thank you for your continued support. We are incredibly grateful to our clients for choosing us, trusting us, and allowing us to be part of your lives. We are equally thankful for the support we receive from our community. Every recommendation, kind word, referral, and show of support means more to us than you know. We are proud to be part of such a wonderful community and truly appreciate everyone who has supported our family and our business along the way.

UCTION A Special Thank You TO OUR CREW

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our hardworking crew. Your dedication, long hours, and commitment to doing things right do not go unnoticed. We truly appreciate everything you do and are grateful to have such an incredible team behind us. Thank you for all your hard work and for helping make it all possible!

BOOKING FOR SPRING, IF INTERESTED SEND US AN EMAIL.

306.861.9287 Weyburn SK office@dcconstructionweyburn.com www.dcconstructionweyburn.com

CONSTRUCTION

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“We live here, we’re raising our kids here, and the people who walk through our doors are our neighbours, friends and people we see in the community every day. We genuinely care about what we bring into the store and about helping people find things that work for them.” - Stefanie Kilberg Dave and Stefanie with their children, Finley and Tommy

START WHERE YOU ARE

At The Living Market at Old Fashion Foods, wellness feels practical, welcoming and a little easier to fit into everyday life By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography by Sherry Lynn

ealth and wellness can feel complicated fast. One scroll through social media can bring a dozen different opinions about what to eat, what to avoid, what supplement to take and which habit is suddenly the key to feeling better. At The Living Market at Old Fashion Foods in Weyburn, owner Stefanie Kilberg wants the experience to feel a lot simpler. “I never want someone to feel like they aren’t ‘healthy enough’ to shop here or that they need to know everything before they come in,” Stefanie says. “Come as you are. Ask questions. Look around.”

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find everyday groceries, snacks, baking ingredients, teas, natural body care and options for a variety of dietary needs. “You don’t have to follow a particular diet or lifestyle to find something you’ll love,” Stefanie says. There is also the Nourish Bar, where customers can grab a smoothie or coffee while they shop. The idea grew from a simple need to make healthier options convenient too. “Sometimes people want to make a better choice but simply don’t have time to go home and prepare something,” Stefanie says.

That welcoming approach is especially important to Stefanie because the business is family owned and operated. “We live here, we’re raising our kids here, and the people who walk through our doors are our neighbours, friends and people we see in the community every day,” Stefanie says. “We genuinely care about what we bring into the store and about helping people find things that work for them.”

More than a health food store For anyone who has not been in for a while, The Living Market may hold a few surprises. Along with supplements and specialty products, shoppers can

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Stefanie Kilberg, owner

Popular smoothies include Apple Pie, Pumpkin Pie, Daily Defender, Raspberry Sunshine, Peachy Greens, Peanut Butter and Chocolate, and Let It Glow, with seasonal flavours joining the mix throughout the year. “It’s another way for us to show people that making a healthier choice doesn’t have to feel like you’re giving something up,” Stefanie says.

That philosophy also shapes her growing interest in healthy aging. “I’m especially interested in the idea that taking care of yourself isn’t about chasing perfection or a number on the scale,” Stefanie says. “The goal is about supporting strength, energy and the ability to enjoy everyday life as the years go by.”

Small changes still count Stefanie is especially passionate about reminding people that wellness does not have to begin with a complete lifestyle overhaul. “It’s never too late to start,” Stefanie says. “And starting doesn’t have to mean changing your entire life tomorrow.”

Meg Duff, natural health consultant

A first step might be drinking more water, adding more vegetables or protein to meals, going for a walk, putting the phone away before bed or swapping one regularly used product for another option. Once that feels manageable, another habit can follow. “I think we can put so much pressure on ourselves to do everything perfectly that we end up doing nothing at all,” Stefanie says. “Just start somewhere.”

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Ask the questions With so much wellness information available online, knowing what applies to one individual can be difficult. Stefanie and her staff continue learning through suppliers, product representatives, training, research and the health practitioners working within the shop. That becomes particularly important with supplements. Magnesium, glycine, omega-3s, saffron and fibre are among the nutrients Stefanie thinks people may want to learn more about heading into a new year. Each plays a different role in the body, but she stresses that supplements are not one-size-fits-all.

is no requirement to arrive with all the answers, follow a certain diet or change everything at once. Someone might come in for groceries, ask a question about an ingredient, pick up a smoothie or simply learn something new. “Healthy doesn’t have to mean perfect,” Stefanie says. Sometimes, it simply means choosing one realistic place to begin. Ready to make one small change? Stop by, ask a question, browse the shelves or grab something from the Nourish Bar.

Find The Living Market at Old Fashion Foods at 122 3rd Street in Weyburn and online at livingmarket.ca.

Medications, pregnancy and health conditions can all affect what is appropriate, so some questions are best discussed with a pharmacist, doctor or other qualified health-care professional. “We try to bring things back to the individual,” Stefanie says. “What is the person trying to accomplish? What are their dietary needs? What are they already taking?”

Wellness without perfection That individual approach may be the clearest way to describe what Stefanie wants The Living Market to offer. There

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Old Fashion Foods 122 3rd St NE, Weyburn 306.842.3003 livingmarket.ca

EXPERT ADVICE

A SWEETER SWAP Cutting back on added sugar doesn’t mean giving up everything sweet

ugar can sneak into more places than the cookie jar. Soft drinks, flavoured yogurt, cereals, sauces, baked goods and other processed foods can all contribute added sugar to the day. Experts advise that eating too much added sugar is associated with higher risks of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. High intakes may also contribute to inflammation, higher blood pressure and fatty liver disease. That doesn’t mean every kind of sugar needs to disappear. Naturally occurring sugars in foods such as fruit, vegetables and unsweetened dairy come packaged with nutrients including fibre, vitamins and minerals.

Sweeten things differently For someone who adds white sugar to coffee or tea, stevia is one option to try. Purified stevia extract is approved for use as a sweetener in Canada and provides sweetness without the same amount of sugar. Because it is much sweeter than table sugar, a little can go a long way. Other ways to reduce added sugar include sweetening oatmeal or baking with fruit, gradually using less sugar and adding flavour with cinnamon, nutmeg

or vanilla. Health Canada recommends these approaches as ways to become accustomed to less sweetness overall.

options, read ingredient lists and find products that work for coffee, cooking or baking.

Sweet swap cheat sheet White versus brown sugar: Brown sugar may look less refined, but nutritionally it is very similar to white sugar. Its molasses mainly changes the flavour, colour and texture. For coffee or tea: Try stevia or simply start reducing the amount of sugar a little at a time. For baking: Depending on the recipe, options can include stevia baking blends, mashed banana or applesauce. Stevia behaves differently from sugar in baking, so following the package directions is important.

Stefanie Kilberg, owner

Old Fashion Foods 122 3rd St NE Weyburn 306.842.3003

For extra flavour: Cinnamon, vanilla and nutmeg can make foods taste sweeter without adding more sugar. Old Fashion Foods in Weyburn carries a variety of sweeteners and sugar alternatives. Staff can help you compare

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Wellness

WELLNESS

In Weyburn

YOUR LOCAL GUIDE TO MOVING, FEELING & LIVING WELL By Brook Thalgott

ellness looks different for everyone. For some, it means building strength, getting moving and making time for a class that leaves you feeling energized. For others, it is a relaxing massage, a fresh haircut, nourishing food or a quiet moment to reset. It can also mean giving yourself space to be creative, trying something new or exploring practices that help you feel more grounded and connected. The good news is you do not have to go far to find those options. Around Weyburn, local businesses are helping people care for themselves in ways that feel practical, personal and enjoyable. You can stop in for health-focused foods or a smoothie, book a head spa treatment or salon appointment, make time for a massage or acupuncture, refresh your look with a new cut or colour or find a gym and fitness classes that fit your routine. Wellness can also be creative. Making art, learning a new skill or simply doing something with your hands can be a welcome break from a busy week. There is no single checklist for feeling your best. Maybe this season is about moving more. Maybe it is about slowing down. Maybe it is about trying a new style, finding a creative outlet or making space for something that simply makes you feel good.

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Find your version of wellness The best place to start is with whatever feels doable right now. Pick one small thing, make the appointment, try the class or stop somewhere new. Wellness does not have to be complicated to make a difference. And in Weyburn, there are plenty of local places ready to help you feel a little more like yourself.

LOCAL WELLNESS STOPS • The Living Market At Old Fashion Foods • The Athletic Club • CollaborARTive Studios • Dynamic Wellness • The Head Shop • Iron + Mane • Olympia in Depth Performance • Weyburn Wholistics Acupuncture & Massage

WELLNESS

HEALTH GUIDE

Helping you move, recover and feel your best. Book online. Dynamic Wellness , RMT 1733 Railway Ave. | 306.861.2331 | vagaro.com/dynamicwellness1

Meet the team behind your best look! Book online. IRON + MANE | Hair • Nails • Lashes 125 2nd St NE | 306.842.2850 | vagaro.com/ironmanesalon

CREATE A LITTLE CHRISTMAS MAGIC This season, may your days be filled with colour, creativity, laughter and the people who make life brighter. Christmas is better when it’s shared, with good friends, great memories and a little creativity along the way. Gather your crew and celebrate with a Christmas party at CollabARTive Studios!

CHRISTMAS PARTY BOOKINGS ARE NOW OPEN!

Krystal Glowatski, Owner

CollabARTive Studios 104 3rd Street NE, Weyburn 306.891.6567 collabartivestudios@gmail.com collabartivestudios.com

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from CollabARTive Studios

Gather. Create. Celebrate.

WEYBURN POLICE SERVICE 400 Coteau Ave. N.E. 306.848.3250 weyburnpolice.ca

With Pride we Serve

Some of the Senior Strength & Stretch members. BACK ROW L-R Patti Hewitt, Juanita Nasby, Kathy Jess, Laurie Tracey, Tanice Abramson & Kelly Anderson FRONT ROW L-R Deborah Acton, Ruth Boren, Faye Altwasser & Donna Johnstone

STRONGER TOGETHER By Brook Thalgott Photo Photography by Sherry Lynn

alking into a gym for the first time can feel intimidating. Walking into one where people know your name, cheer you on and help you adapt a workout when needed feels very different. That sense of support is at the heart of The Athletic Club in Weyburn. Owner and coach Tricia Boren built the club around functional fitness, athletic development and the idea that everyone has a place to start. FIND YOUR FIT Classes include Senior Strength & Stretch with workouts designed to be modified depending on the person. “I enjoy the group environment, made some new friends and have become stronger in the process,” says Deborah Acton. “It’s a great feeling when you have completed a workout session and look forward to attending the next class.” Donna Johnstone says the coaching helped remove some of the hesitation she felt about starting. “Just going to a gym can be intimidating, especially

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for an older person,” she says. “The Athletic Club not only provides excellent instruction, but also close supervision to lessen the chance of any injuries.” KEEP MOVING Patti Hewitt had already been gaining strength, energy and mobility when a hip injury changed what she could comfortably do. “I thought that was going to be the end of my exercises,” Patti says. “But with Tricia’s help, modifications to her program and encouragement, I have been able to continue.” Whether the goal is strength, mobility, sport performance or simply feeling better, The Athletic Club is built to meet people where they are. “I’m new to The Athletic Club community and absolutely love it. Tricia offers a variety of classes that are always different, fun, and challenging— it’s like a surprise with every workout,” says Juanita Nasby. “I’m so happy to be part of such a welcoming and motivating community!”

WELLNESS

L-R Jayda Boren and Tricia Boren

Connect with Tricia about classes or Jayda about Southside PEMF Therapy and take the first step toward finding what works for you. The Athletic Club 39 12 St., Weyburn 306.861.6350

Southside PEMF Therapy 306.891.9002

The more people understand their own bodies and health, the more confident they can feel about the choices they make. L-R Taka Iida and Ramona Iida

More than treatment at

- Ramona lida

Weyburn Wholistics Acupuncture & Massage By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography by Sherry Lynn

or Ramona and Taka Iida, wellness is about more than treating what hurts today. At Weyburn Wholistics Acupuncture & Massage, their approach is rooted in their belief that God created us connected in body, mind, soul and spirit, and that wellness means looking at the bigger picture. With more than 27 years of experience each, Registered Massage Therapist Ramona and Licensed Japanese Acupuncturist Taka bring a holistic approach to care. Ramona’s additional training in holistic nutrition and fitness, perimenopause and menopause, preand postnatal health and GLP-1 lifestyle integration has shaped a particular focus on women’s wellness. LOOK BEYOND THE SYMPTOM “We really care about the person in front of us,” Ramona says. “We want to understand what they’re experiencing, look at the bigger picture and help them find practical, holistic ways to support their health rather than focusing on one symptom in isolation.” Care is individualized and may include massage, acupuncture, mobility and flexibility work, women’s holistic nutrition and fitness coaching, infant massage education or self-care tools. Ramona also draws from techniques

including myofascial cupping, Graston Technique, hot stone massage, stretching, heated bamboo and RockTape kinesiology taping. LEARN, THEN SHARE Education is an important part of Ramona’s approach. “The more people understand their own bodies and health, the more confident they can feel about the choices they make,” Ramona says. “I keep studying to teach people practical ways to support their health.” Her mobility and flexibility classes teach techniques using foam rollers, massage balls and stretching. Her holistic nutrition and fitness coaching considers nutrition, movement, hormones, energy, stress, sleep, mindset and daily habits — helping women understand how these areas are connected and influence how they feel. Rather than looking for a quick fix, Ramona focuses on realistic, sustainable habits women can build over time. CARE THAT GOES DEEPER For Ramona and Taka, Weyburn Wholistics is more than a business. “It’s about helping people feel heard, supported and cared for,” Ramona says. “Everyone walks through the door with a different story, and we want to meet them where they are.”

WELLNESS

Ready to learn more? Call or text Weyburn Wholistics to start the conversation. Weyburn Wholistics Acupuncture & Massage 388 18th Street, Weyburn Ramona, B. Ed, RMT | 306.861.9546 Taka, Dr. Ac. | 306.861.9545

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EXPERT ADVICE

WHEN INFLAMMATION FLIES UNDER THE RADAR What to know about chronic inflammation and everyday ways to support your health

sore ankle after a misstep is easy to notice. Chronic inflammation can be much quieter.

Unlike acute inflammation, which is part of the body’s normal response to injury or illness, chronic inflammation can continue for months or years. Its signs may be subtle, including fatigue, trouble sleeping, joint or muscle pain, digestive concerns, skin problems and frequent infections. Chronic inflammation is also associated with conditions including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and autoimmune diseases.

Start with everyday habits There isn’t one quick fix for chronic inflammation. Instead, everyday choices can play a role. Focus on whole, minimally processed foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. Regular movement, restful sleep and managing stress are also part of the picture.

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Some supplements may be worth discussing, too. Supplements including omega-3s, turmeric, serrapeptase and certain vitamins may help reduce inflammation in some circumstances, although anyone considering a new supplement should first discuss it with a health-care provider.

Ask before adding Not sure where to begin? Old Fashion Foods in Weyburn offers a wide selection of vitamins, minerals, omega-3 products and other supplements, along with knowledgeable staff who can help you compare products, understand labels and find options that suit your needs. Stop in, ask questions and make informed choices. When it comes to supporting long-term health, small everyday steps can be a good place to start.

WELLNESS

Stefanie Kilberg, owner

Old Fashion Foods 122 3rd St NE Weyburn 306.842.3003

Find your place at

OLYMPIA Olympia In Depth Performance brings together training, fitness, recovery and a community that welcomes all levels By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography by Sherry Lynn

alking into a gym can feel intimidating, like walking into the unknown. When you walk through Olympia In Depth Performance’s doors in Weyburn, you get a feeling of familiarity, a feeling like, “home.” Co-owner Lydia Sanders says, “I want people to feel welcome, accepted, at ease, but also excited and motivated when they walk into Olympia.” Olympia welcomes people of all ages and fitness levels, from those rehabilitating injuries or preparing for a sporting event to people working toward physical or mental goals or simply maintaining where they are in life.

More than a workout One of the biggest misconceptions about joining a gym is thinking that you don’t belong, or that others are watching you while you work out. “Everyone is focused on what they are doing with the minimal time they have to get their sweat on or some sort of movement in,” Lydia says. “Generally, members don’t have the capacity to worry about what anyone else is doing, so you might as well get started and put your work in.” That shared focus can also create an unexpected sense of community.

“You become familiar with the people who come at the same time as you. Quietly, or not, you become peers with people you may have never met otherwise, and that is quite special on a human level.”

Something for every goal Olympia hosts and trains many Weyburn athletic teams and organizations and is home to the Olympia Powerlifting Club. Personal training is available through Vigour 365 and Corrie Schultz, while fitness class options include Fit with Franki, Express Lift, Toned with Tilly and powerlifting classes. Team coaching and training are also offered through Randi Paulhus and OID Athletics. Flawless Nutrition and Dynamic Wellness R.M.T. are also located in the facility as well, adding more support under one roof.

Take L-R theJayda firstBoren stepand Tricia Boren For anyone who keeps putting off joining, Lydia keeps the advice simple. “Walking through the front door is the hardest part and the biggest step,” Lydia says. “Ten minutes is better than zero minutes, and you won’t regret exercising your mind and body.” Stop by Olympia In Depth Performance, experience the big open space and the vibe that the community members have created for yourself. New and returning members are always welcome! Olympia In Depth Performance 1733 Railway Avenue, Weyburn 306.842.5111 Olympiafitness.ca

WELLNESS

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Amanda Hodgkin, owner

Your hair called.

It wants a spa day

The Hair Shop brings a relaxing new head spa experience to Weyburn By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography By Sherry Lynn

There is a new way to relax in Weyburn, and it starts at the scalp.

Clean roots, happy hair

he Hair Shop, owned by Amanda Hodgkin, is now offering head spa treatments designed to give both hair and scalp a fresh start while creating a calming, luxurious experience.

The treatment helps remove product buildup, excess oil and dead skin that can clog follicles. It also helps regulate oil, reduce flakes, dryness and itchiness and leave the scalp feeling cleaner and refreshed.

A head spa combines deep scalp cleansing, exfoliation, massage and a luxury hair treatment in one appointment.

“I can’t recommend this scalp spa enough! From the moment the service starts, the attention to detail is amazing. The heated eye mask and cozy blanket set the tone and helps you relax and unplug, but the scalp massage and customized treatments are the real magic. My hair always feels incredible afterward, but honestly, the mental break and stress relief are just as valuable. You don’t need to have specific scalp issues or hair concerns to go. If you have a head and even the smallest amount of stress in your life, you will love it.” - Jeri Fleck

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WELLNESS

A little luxury goes a long way High-quality products featuring ingredients such as amaranth protein, babassu oil and peptides help moisturize, add shine, reduce frizz and support stronger, healthier-looking hair. The massage portion helps boost circulation while easing tension and encouraging deep relaxation. It may also help lower stress hormones, making the experience feel like a reset from root to tip.

Make time for the reset Whether the goal is healthier-looking hair, a cleaner scalp or simply some wellearned relaxation, the head spa at The Hair Shop offers a little bit of everything. Sometimes a good hair day starts with giving the scalp a little attention too. Book now at 306.861.3054. Trust us, you’ll love it. The Hair Shop 33 5th Street, Weyburn 306.861.3054 Instagram @the.hair.shop.ah.

Mark and Laura Missal with their boys, Nash, Nate and Mack

Merry Christmas from Protouch Signs As we celebrate our first Christmas as the new owners of Protouch Signs, we want to take a moment to say thank you. Thank you to all of our wonderful clients who trusted us, worked with us, and supported us throughout this past year. It has been such a privilege to carry on the Protouch tradition and to become part of so many local businesses, projects and celebrations. We are incredibly grateful for the warm welcome we have received and look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come.

From our family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year! Mark & Laura Missal

1280 Railway Avenue, Weyburn 306.842.3667 | protouchsigns.com |

SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

Keep it close to home This holiday season, shopping local means more than finding the right gift. By Brook Thalgott

The holiday season has a way of bringing everything closer. We gather around tables, make plans with friends, hunt for the right gifts and spend a little more time thinking about the people and places that make home feel like home. In Weyburn, many of those places are local businesses.

hey are the shops where someone knows your name, the restaurants that become part of family traditions and the businesses that show up year after year for fundraisers, sports teams and community events.

More than a transaction For Michelle Roemer, the best part of shopping locally is the connection that grows around it. “My favourite thing about shopping local is the personal connections that come with it,” she says. She thinks about grabbing a bubble tea from Gale at Meok Ja, finding cheese and seasonings with Vicki at Field & Flour, choosing something special with her son from Ingrid and Jean-Michel at Geek Boutique or trusting Al and his family at York Jewellers with family heirlooms. “They have all become part of our family memories,” Michelle says. “Walking into a store and being addressed by your first name feels especially meaningful.” That familiarity is one of the quiet advantages of living in a smaller community. “Supporting local isn’t just about where we spend our money,” Michelle says. “It’s about the memories, relationships and sense of belonging.”

Building the community you want For Jayda Boren, local spending is also about shaping the kind of community people want to live in. “We shop local because we want to see our community grow,” she says. “We want thriving businesses, great places to eat and shop, and spaces to gather, have fun and make memories with friends and family.” Every purchase may feel small on its own, but together those choices help local businesses keep their doors open, employ people and continue giving back. “Every local purchase helps build the kind of community we all want to live in,” Jayda says.

Weyburn already has, from clothing and hardware stores to gift shops, health food store and gourmet food shop. She also sees how often those businesses support the community in return. “Their generosity in supporting local charities, sports teams and nonprofits is amazing,” Lisa says. “They then turn around and spend their own money supporting many of these same initiatives.” Winston Bailey shares that same philosophy. “When we shop local, sponsor local events or support a community group, that support stays close to home,” Winston says. “It helps our neighbours, our friends and the people we see every day.” For him, it is a simple cycle. “I’ve always believed that if a community supports you, you should do your best to support it right back,” Winston says.

Give a little local this Christmas There is a practical side too. “Weyburn has everything I need and it’s handy for me to get to,” Ruth Boren says. “It’s comfortable and easy to shop here, and I don’t have to travel.” This holiday season, there are plenty of ways to keep a little more of your shopping close to home. Maybe a gift comes from a local boutique. Maybe dinner comes from a favourite restaurant on a busy December night. Maybe someone hard to buy for gets a gift card to somewhere they already love. Each choice is small, but the impact adds up. So while making the list and checking it twice, consider keeping a little more of it close to home.

The gift may end up under someone’s tree, but the support stays right here in Weyburn.

Support that stays close to home

PHOTOS TOP TO BOTTOM Michelle Roemer, Ruth Boren & Jayda Boren, Lisa Cugnet, Winston Bailey

Lisa Cugnet sees that impact in the variety of independent businesses

SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

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Why we love Cedar & Vine Real women. Well-loved pieces. A little Cedar & Vine inspiration. There’s something special about finding a piece of clothing that feels like it was made for you. Something comfortable, beautiful and easy to wear that becomes a favourite without you even realizing it. From thoughtfully designed linen pieces to custom-fit garments made just for you, Cedar & Vine creates clothing that feels personal, comfortable and beautifully suited to everyday life. We asked a few local women to share the Cedar & Vine pieces they love most and what makes them favourites. L-R Kayt-Lynn Johnston, Heidi Bousfield, Emily Bousfield, Jo Beach, Rae Wimmer and Faith McDonald

“The clothes from Cedar & Vine are elegant yet they also have a down-to-earth sensibility and are excellent quality. These are the pieces that I consistently wear in every season all year long. These are also the clothes I bring when I travel as they go from day to night easily with just the switch of footwear. It’s amazing to feel so comfortable when traveling while at the same time feeling put together in fashion forward styles. My top two favourite pieces are the Linen Blazer and the Legacy Trouser.”

feel effortlessly refined, modern, and timeless is truly something special.

“I feel so grateful to have Cedar & Vine right here in our town. There’s something so special about being able to step into a beautiful local space, experience the pieces in person, and take the time to truly find the ones that feel just right. Jo has such an incredible eye for design. The way she transforms linen into pieces that

- Emily Bousfield

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SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

And the new romper… I am OBSESSED. It’s the kind of piece that makes getting dressed feel effortless — beautifully polished for a more formal occasion, yet just as chic styled casually. One-piece, endless possibilities. I love having a local destination that makes fashion feel this inspiring, effortless, and fun.” - Heidi Bousfield

SPORTY

CLASSIC

ELEVATED

“I was introduced to Cedar & Vine by my dear friend Melanie. At first, I wasn’t sure it was something I would get a lot of wear from, which is rather funny now as the everyday tee and court side skort are wardrobe staples for me. Another favourite is the voyage short which I wear daily for garden and yard work. I have some jumpers, too. They are all pieces that I reach for time and time again and I never tire of wearing them. Quality clothing, beautiful colour and design and most of all interacting with Jo and the entire Cedar & Vine team keeps me coming back for more. In fact, I already have a few pieces from the fall release on my list to purchase.” - Faith McDonald

“The moment you step into the Cedar & Vine studio, you can feel the energy is warm, welcoming, and genuinely uplifting. The team creates an environment where you feel instantly comfortable and supported. The handmade linen pieces are incredible. They effortlessly blend timeless style with ease and wearability, resulting in gorgeous silhouettes, rich colours and beautiful natural textures that look just as stunning in person as they do online. The clothing is perfect for everyday wear or a night out. Cedar & Vine doesn’t just make gorgeous, high-quality clothing. They cultivate a community and a feeling that stays with you.” - Caylea Preston

“I adore Jo’s people-first approach, which has shone through from the moment I met her. Not only is she a talented designer, but a grounded thoughtful person who is a joy to be around. Her eye for detail, paired with a strong foundation in what Cedar & Vine means to her and the people who loyally follow along, translates into truly spectacular pieces. Each collection feels thoughtfully curated, with pieces that layer beautifully and complement one another season after season. I’m drawn to their colour palettes, the expertly considered details (like complementary seams that add shape and draw the eye in all the right places), and the quality materials that stand the test of time. There’s so much thought behind every piece, and you can feel it in the way everything comes together. What I love most is how effortlessly Cedar & Vine works for every style, shape, and age. These are pieces that feel special but are still so wearable, making it easy to build a wardrobe you’ll reach for again and again. You can tell there’s a whole lot of heart behind this brand, and it shows in every collection. I highly recommend it! If you haven’t tried anything yet, I’d recommend a Vienna Jacket to start. Perfect for fall, styled with jeans, boots, and dress, it’s perfect over everything!” - Charmaine Wudrick

424 10TH AVE SE WEYBURN, SASKATCHEWAN

CEDARANDVINE.NET

Vicki Leas, owner

GATHER, GRAZE & GIVE Field & Flour celebrates one year while Welsh Kitchen marks 17 years of serving Weyburn favourites By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography By Sherry Lynn

he holiday season has a way of bringing food to the centre of everything. From a cheese board shared with friends to a gift basket headed to a client or a warm lunch with someone you have not seen in a while, good food has a way of turning an ordinary stop into something more memorable. For owner Vicki Leas, that connection is at the heart of both Field & Flour Fine Foods and Welsh Kitchen. Field & Flour is celebrating its first anniversary, while Welsh Kitchen continues into its 17th year in business. “We’re so thankful for the way the community has embraced Field & Flour,” Vicki says. “To celebrate one year while also looking at 17 years of Welsh Kitchen really means a lot to us.”

Set the table As holiday entertaining picks up, Field & Flour offers plenty of ways to make hosting a little easier. The cheese counter remains a favourite stop, with a rotating selection that can help build everything from a simple snack board to a full charcuterie spread. Seasonal imports also arrive throughout the holidays, giving customers a chance to find specialty foods, sweets and pantry items that feel a little different from the everyday. “We want people to be able to come in, find something special and put together food they’re excited to share,” Vicki says. “Sometimes that’s a beautiful cheese or a seasonal treat, and sometimes it’s everything you need for the whole board.” Field & Flour also offers a charcuterie menu for corporate events, weddings and holiday gatherings.

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Wrap up something delicious

We’re just very thankful people continue to walk through the doors and support us. That support is what lets us keep doing what we love. - Vicki Leas

For people searching for a gift that feels thoughtful without being complicated, Field & Flour offers custom holiday gift baskets. Each basket can be tailored to suit the recipient, occasion or budget, with gourmet foods and specialty items selected from the shop. “Gift baskets are a really nice way to make something feel personal,” Vicki says. “We can help put together something that works for a client, a staff member, a host or someone who can be hard to shop for.” Gift cards are another easy option for food lovers who would rather choose their own favourites.

Tanner Jensen

Seventeen years and still gathering Next door, Welsh Kitchen continues doing what it has done for nearly two decades, giving people a comfortable place to meet over delicious drinks and incredible food. The kitchen serves lunches, coffee and all-day breakfast, with fresh in-house baking made daily. “Welsh Kitchen has always been about community,” Vicki says. “People come in for breakfast or lunch, but they also come in to visit, catch up and spend time together.” That same connection now carries over to Field & Flour, where customers can also find a full range of Welsh Kitchen frozen meals to take home. For Vicki, the two businesses complement each other naturally. “One gives people a place to sit down and enjoy a meal, and the other gives them something special to take home, serve or give,” Vicki says. “At the end of every day, both are really about bringing people together around good food.”

Giving thanks As one business celebrates its first year and the other marks 17, Vicki says the gratitude behind both milestones is the same. “We’re just very thankful people continue to walk through the doors and support us,” Vicki says. “That support is what lets us keep doing what we love.” Visit Field & Flour Fine Foods and Welsh Kitchen at 405 Souris Avenue in Weyburn. Your tastebuds will thank you!

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Field & Flour Fine Foods Welsh Kitchen 405 Souris Ave., Weyburn 306.842.7687

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The best things in life are made with love Find thoughtful gifts, beautifully put together at Crafty Corner Owners, Andries & Alrika Van Der Meulen

By Refined Staff

ustom holiday gift baskets, handmade treasures, South African favourites and unique finds—all under one roof in Weyburn. Finding the perfect gift doesn’t always mean finding one particular item. Sometimes, it’s about putting together a collection of little things that make someone feel thought of. That’s exactly where Crafty Corner’s custom holiday gift baskets shine. Located at 216 20th Avenue in Weyburn’s Ag-Activ building, Crafty Corner creates personalized gift baskets for just about anyone on your list — from clients and employees to friends, family and those people who are notoriously difficult to shop for. Each basket is carefully curated with products from throughout the store, creating a personal and unique gift. Whether you’re looking for something cozy, indulgent, practical or unexpected, baskets can be tailored to suit the recipient. Custom corporate baskets are also available — a thoughtful way to show appreciation to clients, employees, teachers, hosts and more.

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A store full of things worth discovering Owned by Alrika and Andries Van Der Meulen, Crafty Corner is much more than a traditional gift shop. Alrika, a lifelong baker, created the boutique as a place where local creativity and her South African heritage could come together. The result is a warm, eclectic shopping experience filled with products you won’t find anywhere else. Shelves are filled with handcrafted treasures including bath products, pillows, jewellery, linens, artwork and home décor. Many of the pieces are created by talented local artisans, making them an especially meaningful choice when shopping for someone who appreciates something made with care.

A taste of South Africa One of the things that makes Crafty Corner unique is its collection of South African-inspired food and products. Visitors can pick up small-batch coffee beans, honey and soothing tea blends, along with some of Alrika’s favourite South African treats. Traditional rusks, crisp cookies made for dunking into

SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

coffee or tea, are a customer favourite, along with homemade cookies and other imported goodies.

Make a stop, stay a while Crafty Corner is the kind of place where you can come in looking for one thing and leave inspired by something completely different. Customers are invited to enjoy a complimentary coffee while they browse, making it a welcoming place to slow down and enjoy the experience of holiday shopping. And there’s even more to explore at Crafty Corner’s second location in Wilder Place downtown, next to Pharmasave. Each location offers its own unique selection of products, décor, and prepared gift baskets for your convenience — making both locations worth a visit. Whether you’re building a custom basket or searching for that one perfect find, Crafty Corner is ready to help you make someone’s Christmas special. Crafty Corner 216 20th Avenue, Weyburn 306.842.0270 |

L-R Jeff Tosczak and James Bell, owners

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM WEYBURN DODGE! Thank you for trusting Weyburn Dodge with your vehicle needs and for supporting our local dealership. We truly appreciate your business and the opportunity to serve our customers, friends and neighbours throughout Weyburn and the surrounding area. Your continued support means so much to our team, and we look forward to being here for you for many years to come.

THINKING ABOUT A NEW VEHICLE? Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle, upgrading your current ride or simply ready for something new, come see our team and discover why more drivers are choosing Weyburn Dodge. With a great selection, great service and deals worth driving home, we’re ready to help you find the right vehicle at the right price.

From our Weyburn Dodge family to yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

Weyburn Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Ltd. 1627 1st Ave NE, Weyburn 306.842.7333 weyburndodge.ca Locally owned and operated

THE BEST DEAL IS A WEYBURN DODGE DEAL

Expressions Ladies Wear celebrates one year under owner Chantel Borys with fresh styles, personal service and a shopping experience designed for every generation. By Brook Thalgott Photos Photography by Sherry Lynn

along with a strong sense that she is where she is meant to be. “The first year has been incredibly challenging, but also incredibly rewarding,” Chantel says. “Expressions has given me a sense of purpose that I don’t think I had ever felt before.”

Something for everyone

L-R Amanda Hodgkin, Lindsay Knoll, Wendy Altwasser, Chantel Borys, Tammy Dion and Toni Wick

inding clothes you love is about more than grabbing something off a rack. Sometimes it means feeling the fabric, trying on a few options and discovering the piece you almost did not pick. At Expressions

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Ladies Wear in Weyburn, owner Chantel Borys wants that process to feel welcoming, personal and fun. October 1 marks one year since Chantel took ownership of the store, a milestone she says has brought plenty of learning

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Chantel worked at Expressions for about two years before buying the business, so she already knew the store and its customers well. Today, her goal is to make sure women of different ages and styles can all find something they love. “I really do want Expressions to be a store where everyone feels like there is something for them, whether you’re 15 or 100,” Chantel says. That means bringing in younger brands and current styles while continuing to carry the pieces longtime customers enjoy. Newer additions include DEX, Molly Bracken and Shannon Passero, alongside familiar favourites. When

“Whether you’ve been shopping at Expressions for years or you’ve never walked through our doors before, we want you to feel like you belong here.” - Chantel Borys

Chantel attends buying shows, she often has specific customers in mind. “I’ll see something and immediately think, ‘Judy would look so cute in this,’ or ‘Barb would love that,’” Chantel says.

Chantel with her children, Crue, Remi & Lux

Try something new That personal approach continues once customers come into the store. Some arrive looking for an outfit for a wedding, business event or special occasion. Others simply want to see what is new. Either way, Chantel wants shopping to feel relaxed. “We’re there along the way to suggest a size, grab another colour or say, ‘You have to try this with that,’” Chantel says. She especially enjoys encouraging customers to try something they may not have chosen on their own. “That’s probably my favourite part, the moment our ladies come out of the fitting room to show us what they have on,” Chantel says. That experience also goes beyond regular store hours. Expressions offers private shopping parties, giving groups the chance to book the store for birthdays, wedding parties, girls’ nights or simply a night out together. The store also takes clothing to nursing homes in Weyburn and Estevan, giving women who may not be able to visit the store a chance to shop where they live. Longtime staff member Wendy also helps create that familiar boutique feel by knowing many customers by name.

“We aren’t a big box store where you’re just another transaction,” Chantel says. “We know our customers.”

walked through our doors before, we want you to feel like you belong here,” Chantel says.

Rediscover Expressions

Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5.30 pm, visit Expressions Ladies Wear and find the styles that work for you today and all year round.

October gives shoppers another reason to visit. Expressions will celebrate Chantel’s first anniversary throughout the month with a buy one, get one 50 per cent off sale and a shopping spree giveaway. Fall fashion will also continue arriving regularly. “Whether you’ve been shopping at Expressions for years or you’ve never

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Expressions Ladies Wear 64 3rd St NE Weyburn 306.848.3684

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WE’RE SO CLOSE, WEYBURN! Credit Union Spark Cinema is taking shape, with a targeted opening of December 2026. The exterior is complete, interior work is well underway, and food vendors have been selected. The board has also welcomed Laura Morrissette as Theatre Manager, marking another exciting step toward opening. Sparkz, the theatre’s star mascot, is helping celebrate milestones along the way. Follow @weyburntheatre on social media for updates. This progress reflects the generosity and dedication of Weyburn and the surrounding area. Through donations, volunteer hours and ongoing encouragement, the community has helped bring movie nights closer to home. Thank You.

(306) 870-3456

weyburntheatre.com

$2.7 2.7 MILLION MILLION RAISED RAISED $

$300,000

MORE TO GO!!

HELP US REACH THE FINAL SCENE We’re so close to our fundraising goal, but we still need your help! If you’ve been waiting to give, now’s the time. Donate at weyburntheatre.com, scan the QR code, or make a cheque payable to Saskatchewan Community Foundation. Drop it in our mailbox or mail it to 138 3rd St NE, Weyburn, SK S4H 0W2. Help us bring movie nights home! Visit our website to learn how your name could be recognized in the theatre. .

YOUR DONATION DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT AND A TAX RECEIPT!

@weyburntheatre

GIVE THE GIFT THAT SPARKLES

Sud City Touchless Car Wash

UNWRAP THE SEASON’S

Entertaining

54 95

62 45

72 45

84 95

1794 1st Ave, Weyburn 306.842.4199

PRAIRIE SKY CO-OP

cheese boxes deli platters nut trays custom gift baskets

spirits PRAIRIE SKY CO-OP LIQUOR STORE

SHOP LOCAL

Your Holiday Dollars Make a Difference By Andria Brady

s the holiday season approaches, it is the perfect time to think local when checking items off your shopping list. From unique gifts and locally made products to restaurants, services and family-owned shops, southeast Saskatchewan is home to an incredible variety of entrepreneurs who pour their time, creativity and passion into our communities. When you shop local, your dollars do more than purchase a gift. They help support local jobs, strengthen our regional economy and contribute to the communities we all call home. Every purchase can make a difference.

At Community Futures Sunrise, we see firsthand the impact that local entrepreneurs have on southeast Saskatchewan. Our organization is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth throughout the region through business loans, advice, training and a variety of support programs. We work with entrepreneurs at every stage - from those with an idea for a new business to established businesses looking to grow to those passing the business on to the next generation. We believe that strong communities and strong businesses go hand in hand. Supporting local businesses helps create vibrant communities where people can work, shop, gather and build their futures.

Leanne Porter Business Development Officer

This holiday season, consider looking a little closer to home before heading online or out of town. Visit a local store, order from a local maker, book a local service or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. SHOP LOCAL. GIVE LOCAL. CELEBRATE LOCAL. Together, our everyday choices can help keep southeast Saskatchewan communities thriving - this holiday season and all year long.

Andria Brady, General Manager

Community Futures Sunrise — supporting local business, strengthening local communities.

Loans - Advice - Support

Community Futures Sunrise 119 3rd Street NE, Weyburn 306.842.8803 info@cfsunrise.ca https://cfsask.ca/sunrise Find us on

Serving Business in Southeast Sask

SHOP LOCAL FEATURE

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MAKE A BOLD IMPRESSION Indoors or

Out

Aluminum Prints: 3mm High-Resolution Lightweight. Durable. Weather-resistant. Perfect for office walls, boardrooms, farms, ranches, or your weekend getaway cabin. Every sign is fully customizable—designed to reflect your style, your brand, or your story.

Strong enough for the elements. Sleek enough for the boardroom. For pricing, sizes and to order, email info@aspireprinting.ca

Ask about our: stretched canvases and calendars! Check out www.aspireprinting.ca for all your printing needs.

Merry Christmas from Souris Family Dental!

L-R Dr. Chess, Dr. Satre, Dr. Galante and Dr. Hoium As the Christmas season approaches, we want to take a moment to say thank you to all of our wonderful patients for your continued trust and support throughout the year. It is a privilege to care for you and your families, and we are grateful to be part of our community.

1905 1 Avenue NE, Weyburn 306.842.8111 www.sourisdental.com

Wishing you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

BACK ROW L-R Deana Peterson, Lisa Vick, Dianna Endicott FRONT ROW L-R Peggy Henderson, Dawn Haines, Krystal Browatzke

Finding strength together WeyStrong creates connection and support for women facing cancer By Brook Thalgott

cancer diagnosis can bring fear, uncertainty and plenty of questions. WeyStrong is helping women in Weyburn and southeast Saskatchewan face those challenges with something just as important: community. The local non-profit provides support for women who have received a cancer diagnosis, creating opportunities to connect with others who understand the experience firsthand. Its focus includes peer support, education and advocacy, along with events that bring women together in a welcoming setting. Founded by Weyburn cancer survivor and patient advocate Lisa Vick, WeyStrong grew from Lisa’s own experience navigating the diagnosis process. After finding a lump in her breast in September, Lisa was not able to get in for a mammogram until December because of a shortage of radiologists and mammogram technicians. During that wait, she found online groups and support options in Regina, but what she wanted most was someone nearby who understood what the process felt like. “During those months of waiting, I just wanted someone who had been through the diagnosis process to talk to,” Lisa says. “There were Facebook groups and groups in Regina, but I wanted something in person in my own community.”

That experience helped shape WeyStrong’s peer-based approach. By sharing their own experiences, women can support one another through diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer. “We want women to feel connection, comfort and compassion when they reach out to us and attend our events,” Lisa says. “Sharing our experiences has been very helpful for women managing a diagnosis, treatment and life after a diagnosis.” The organization has since hosted survivor retreats, community fundraisers and awareness initiatives while also supporting local cancer care. That support is also creating practical change close to home. WeyStrong has been able to purchase items for Weyburn’s Community Oncology Program of Saskatchewan, an important local resource for women receiving cancer care. Through connection, advocacy and shared experience, WeyStrong continues to give women across the southeast a place to find information, encouragement and strength in one another.

For updates, upcoming events and more information about WeyStrong, visit the WeyStrong Facebook group.

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Warm Wishes Ardell with her sons Avery and Coltan

from Ardell Small Business Solutions Christmas reminds us that life isn’t just about getting through the days, but about embracing the magic in every moment. Treasure the little things, share your joy freely, and let gratitude guide your heart. May the warmth of the season carry you into a new year filled with hope, happiness, and peace.

306.861.4000 ardellbookkeeping@sasktel.net

HOTSHOT OILFIELD SERVICE would like to thank their customers. We appreciate your business and want to wish you and your family happy holidays!

Hotshot Oilfield Service

Weyburn, SK | 306.861.9434

STAY PLAY

& DINE 7.5” x 4.875”

PRAIRIE APPLE CRISP A little taste of the harvest, made for sharing. Warm apples, cinnamon and a buttery oat crumble come together in this simple, comforting dessert. It’s the kind of recipe that feels familiar from the first bite — easy to make, generous enough to share and just right for gathering around the table.

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INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

FOR THE APPLES

1. Prepare the apples

•

6–7 medium apples, peeled, cored and sliced

•

2 tbsp brown sugar

•

1 tbsp all-purpose flour

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, vanilla and lemon juice. Spread evenly in the prepared dish.

•

1 tsp cinnamon

•

1/2 tsp vanilla

•

1 tbsp lemon juice

FOR THE CRUMBLE

2. Make the crumble In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work it into the mixture until coarse crumbs form. Stir in the nuts, if using.

3. Bake

•

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

•

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

•

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the apples. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling around the edges.

•

1/2 tsp cinnamon

4. Serve

•

1/4 tsp salt

•

1/2 cup cold butter, cubed

Let cool for 10–15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.

•

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, optional

Serves 8

AGRICULTURE

Rooted in gratitude, harvested with thanks

Celebrating Saskatchewan food, farmers and the bounty shared around the world By Refined Staff

he holidays have a way of bringing everyone back to the table. There are favourite recipes, familiar flavours and plates piled a little higher than usual. In Saskatchewan, there’s also a good chance that something on that table started its journey surprisingly close to home. From wheat and lentils to canola, peas, beef and other farmgrown favourites, Saskatchewan agriculture helps fill kitchens here at home and far beyond the province’s borders.

Homegrown for the holidays Take a closer look at a holiday meal and Saskatchewan agriculture can show up in plenty of places. Flour for fresh-baked buns, lentils and pulses in soups and side dishes, canola oil used for cooking, and beef or poultry at the centre of a family feast all connect the table to the land. That connection is worth celebrating.

From Saskatchewan to the world The food grown and raised here doesn’t stay here. Saskatchewan producers are part of an agricultural sector that helps supply customers around the world. Canadian-grown grains, pulses, oilseeds and meat are enjoyed in homes and communities far beyond the Prairies.

Across Saskatchewan, farmers and ranchers spend their year planting, tending, harvesting and caring for livestock. Behind every ingredient is work that continues through early mornings, long days, changing weather and seasons that rarely follow the plan. It means the work happening on Saskatchewan farms can become part of a meal thousands of kilometres away, connecting local producers with dinner tables around the globe. That’s something pretty special to think about while passing the potatoes. This holiday season, Refined gives thanks to Saskatchewan’s farmers, ranchers, farm families and everyone who helps move food from the field to the table. Thank you for growing it, raising it and sharing it with Saskatchewan and the world.

Now, let’s eat!

AGRICULTURE

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Read the soil, not just the numbers Ag-Activ helps producers look beyond a fertilizer recommendation to understand what their soil is really saying By Brook Thalgott

soil test can look like a page full of numbers, percentages and abbreviations. For Ag-Activ co-owner Andries Van Der Meulen, the real value comes from understanding how those numbers work together and what they reveal about the soil. “A soil test is much more than a fertilizer shopping list,” Andries says. “We want to understand the soil as a system, including how much nutrient is present, how well the soil can hold those nutrients and whether things like salts or pH are limiting availability.” That means resisting the urge to focus on one number, one nutrient or one ratio. Crop type, yield goal, soil texture, moisture, organic matter, rooting depth, pH, salinity, Cation Exchange Capacity and the actual quantity of each nutrient all have a role in the bigger picture.

Start with a good sample The sample itself has to represent the field. Avoid unusual areas such as saline patches, sloughs, severely eroded knolls or old yard sites when collecting a representative sample. If those areas need attention, they should be sampled separately.

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Consistency matters too. Sampling at similar depths, locations and times of year makes it easier to compare results from one season to the next. Over time, that can turn soil testing into more than a snapshot. It becomes a record of whether soil conditions are improving, declining or simply changing.

Read the environment first Ag-Activ starts by looking at the soil environment before moving into individual nutrients. pH is one of the first pieces because it influences nutrient chemistry and availability. Electrical conductivity, or EC, also matters because it indicates soluble salts. A soil can contain plenty of nutrients and still struggle if salt levels make it difficult for plants to take up water. Organic matter and soil organic carbon help tell another part of the story. They are closely connected to structure, water-holding capacity, aggregation, nutrient retention and biological nutrient cycling. CEC can then help show the soil’s ability to hold positively charged nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, potassium

AGRICULTURE

“Andries, his staff and family are great people to work with. He is always willing to help us with our soil health and nutrition. Over the last few years, his products have increased our crop yields. It is great to stop by his office and discuss my concerns about our soil management over a cup of coffee!” - Cindy & Blaine Lohse

and ammonium. Andries describes it as the size of the soil’s nutrient-holding tank but cautions that capacity does not automatically equal fertility.

Use ratios as clues Base saturation and nutrient ratios can be useful tools, but Ag-Activ does not treat them as stand-alone prescriptions. Once the soil environment is understood, Ag-Activ looks at the actual levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur, calcium and magnesium, followed by micronutrients such as zinc, manganese, copper, boron and others. A low percentage may catch attention, but it does not automatically mean a nutrient needs to be added. The crop, field conditions and actual nutrient quantity all need to support that decision.

Ask the right questions For Andries, interpreting a soil test comes down to three practical questions. The first is: what is the biggest limiting factor? Sometimes the answer is not fertilizer. Salinity, poor drainage, compaction, limited moisture or shallow rooting can all restrict yield before a minor nutrient imbalance does. The second question is whether the nutrient is actually deficient. The third is what the smallest justified correction might be and how it can be measured. That is where check strips, crop scouting and, when appropriate, tissue or sap testing can help. Repeating soil tests with the same sampling method adds another layer of information and gives producers a clearer way to track what is happening over time.

Andries Van Der Meulen

Turn numbers into decisions At Ag-Activ, the goal is not to chase perfect soil-test numbers. It is to use the information to make better field decisions. A soil test can point producers toward the right questions, but the field still has the final say.

AGRICULTURE

Ag-Activ 216 20th Avenue, Weyburn Andries 306.580.7335 Alrika 306.465.7605 Office 306.842.0270 agactiv.com

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EXPERT ADVICE

MORE WAYS TO HELP THEM FEEL BETTER Dr. Karly Lanz brings acupuncture, massage, herbal medicine and veterinary medical manipulation to Prairie Animal Health Centre

hen a pet is hurting, recovering from surgery or simply slowing down with age, having more than one way to help can make a real difference. For Dr. Karly Lanz, veterinarian at Prairie Animal Health Centre, that means combining traditional veterinary medicine with a range of alternative therapies often described as veterinary “body work.” Her approach can include acupuncture, herbal medicines, massage and veterinary medical manipulation, which she describes as the animal form of human chiropractic therapy. These therapies may be used preventatively or to help relieve pain, restore function, support healing or improve quality of life.

More tools for different needs Karly says these options are especially useful for pain management, senior pets, recovery from surgery or injury, neurological intervertebral disc disease and cases where other treatments have not achieved the desired result. Senior pets are a particularly important group because underlying health conditions

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can sometimes limit the use of traditional medications. “As pets get older, sometimes our options become more limited because traditional medications may not be appropriate due to underlying disease,” Karly says. “Having these other tools can give us more ways to support comfort and quality of life.”

Building experience over time Karly began training in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Acupuncture and herbal medicine in 2011, followed by Chinese massage, or Tui-na, in 2016 and veterinary medical manipulation in 2025. Her interest began with her own experience receiving acupuncture and herbal treatments. “I had experienced significant benefits myself and became very interested in what these options could offer the animal patients I care for,” Karly says. Depending on the case, she may recommend these therapies alongside Western medicine or use them when other options are limited.

“As pets get older, sometimes our options become more limited because traditional medications may not be appropriate due to underlying disease. Having these other tools can give us more ways to support comfort and quality of life.” - Dr. Karly Lanz

Start with a conversation Book a consultation with Dr. Karly Lanz at Prairie Animal Health Centre to talk through your pet’s condition and build a treatment plan that fits their needs.

What treatment looks like Karly says most pets handle acupuncture better than owners might expect. The needles are very small and thin, and treatment may include traditional acupuncture or electroacupuncture. For pets that do not tolerate needles, other options may still be available. Prairie Animal Health Centre also offers therapeutic laser treatment, which can be useful in many cases.

AGRICULTURE

Dr. Karly Lanz Prairie Animal Health Centre 327 5th Street NW, Weyburn 306.910.7242 prairieanimalhealthweyburn.com

THE ONE STOP TIRE SHOP Brakes, Shocks, Wheel Alignments and More. We want to be your one stop shop and give you the quality that you deserve. With top of the line equipment as added insurance — every move is as efficient as possible and has the safety of your property as a #1 priority.

1764 1st Ave., N.E. Weyburn 306.848.2020 www.i-zantire.ca |

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from GRABBING GEARS

This holiday season, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our students, partners, and community. Your trust and support allow us to do what we love—helping future drivers take the wheel toward new opportunities. At Grabbing Gears, we’re proud to play a part in shaping careers and building futures in the trucking industry. As we look ahead to a new year, we remain committed to providing the training and guidance that keep success moving forward.

Dave McLeod

CALL TODAY AND BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

we’re ready to serve you.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful Christmas and a New Year filled with happiness, opportunity, and many miles of new adventures.

DINING

Take the night off Dinner (or breakfast or lunch) does not need a special occasion

Not every meal needs a plan, a grocery list and a sink full of dishes. Sometimes going out to eat is about celebrating a birthday or anniversary. Sometimes it is catching up with a friend, taking the family out after a busy week or saying yes to a spontaneous night out. And sometimes, it is simply because nobody feels like cooking. Trust us, that is reason enough. A meal out can turn an ordinary evening into something to look forward to. It gives everyone a chance to sit down together without worrying about prep or cleanup, and it can be an easy way to reconnect when schedules have been pulling everyone in different directions. Takeout counts too. Pick up a favourite meal on the way home, make movie night a little easier or let someone else handle dinner when the day or the week has already been long enough. There is no rule that says dining out has to be saved for milestones. Invite someone you have been meaning to catch up with. Let the kids choose dinner. Try somewhere different. Order the dessert.

NEED A LITTLE INSPIRATION? Check out the Refined dining guide and see what sounds good tonight. Whether you are planning a celebration, meeting friends or just taking a break from the kitchen, your next meal might be closer than you think.

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DINING

Unleash your inner athlete

at Another Round Sports Bar & Grill

Experience the best simulator technology in the world. See our new multi-sport sims with 30+ sports! Suitable for all ages, we're offering real-life sports action.

Minors welcome until 9PM every night!* Bring the whole family for an evening of fun.

Party, play, and spread thecheer. BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH US! And don’t forget to pick up gift cards for everyone on your list!

Justin & Kayla McDonald with their children Kaynen & Finley

Join us for any occasion:

Team building events, sports windups, birthday parties & more!

Step up to the plate and dive into our indoor baseball simulator for an authentic baseball experience. It's perfect for training, socializing, and an unforgettable night out!

Call 306-842-1999 to book today! *Minors allowed until 9 PM. Must be accompanied by an adult.

Another Round Sports Bar & Grill 2 3rd St NE, Weyburn 306.842.1999

Hey Bestea! Meok Ja Milk Tea Bar keeps things fresh, fun and full of reasons to come back By Brook Thalgott

here is always something new waiting at Meok Ja Milk Tea Bar. Owner Gale Regines has built the Weyburn shop around more than drinks and desserts. She wants it to be a place where young people can hang out, feel included and make memories. “Meok Ja is a safe and welcoming space where young people can hang out, feel included and create memories,” Gale says. That sense of fun carries through the whole experience, from the 2D café design and games to the familiar “Hey Bestea!” greeting from the team.

TRY SOMETHING NEW The menu is always changing, with new flavours introduced monthly along with seasonal drinks and rotating creations. Customers can choose from bubble tea, specialty coffee, trompe l’oeil desserts, Meokies and other treats throughout the year. Meokies are the shop’s signature eggless stuffed cookies, with flavours changing regularly.

We love experimenting and giving our customers something new to look forward to every season. - Gale Regines

“We love experimenting and giving our customers something new to look forward to every season,” Gale says. Holidays bring even more reasons to stop in, with seasonal décor, themed drinks and desserts and occasional activities for local youth. STAY FOR THE EXPERIENCE Gift cards and gift certificates are also available, making it easy to share the experience with someone else. Gale says Meok Ja is proudly rooted in Weyburn, and customers have travelled from other towns, cities and even across the border to visit. “We may be in a small city, but we want to show that something unique and worth travelling for can be built right here in Saskatchewan,” Gale says.

Gale Regines, owner

82 ReFined WEYBURN & AREA

Come for the drinks and desserts, try something new, play a game, bring your friends or simply hang out.

DINING

Where else bestea?

Only at Meok Ja.

Meok Ja Milk Tea Bar 409 Railway Avenue, Weyburn 306.842.0174 | Winter hours are noon to 7 p.m.

PUMPJACKS. SALOON & STEAKHOUSE 596 18 Street, Weyburn | 306.842.3838

* Gift Cards Available

Fresh Eats, Sweet Treats & Local Finds

HOURS: Monday-Friday 11 AM Saturday & Sunday 9:30 AM SPORTS TEAMS in groups of four or more – remember to ask your server about our team specials.

aloo

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Pumpjacks. We look forward to serving you in the New Year!

n & Steakhou

Eat, Drink & Be Merry!

P JA C K S PUM

Come check out our new location in Regina.

Pumpjacks. Cathedral: 2062 Albert Street

Taco in a Bag Foothills Creamery soft & hard ice cream Dirty Sodas Rotating soups Chili Sandwiches Slush puppies Espresso Local Vendors Giftware

Grub Shack & General Store | 64 3rd St NE downtown Weyburn | 306.870.0444

DINING GUIDE

Authentic Indian, Nepales & Hakka Cuisine Barbeque Nation | Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery. 132 3rd St NE, Weyburn | 306.842.7482

Hey Bestea! Where Else? Meok Ja 409 Railway Ave | 306.842.0174 | Meokjaweyburn.com

Crispy, juicy chicken tenders, popcorn chicken and more! Ophabie 411 Railway Ave, Weyburn | 306.842.4111 | Ophabie.ca

Your Go-To Spot for Good Times & Great Company! Dempsey’s Restaurant & Lounge 154 Sims Ave, Weyburn | 306.848.8008 | dempseysrestaurant.ca

Great for breakfast, coffee and lunch. Welsh Kitchen & Bakery 405 Souris Ave | 306.842.7687 | wkweyburn@gmail.com

Here for every moment. Join us daily for lunch and dinner. Cecilia’s Banquet Hall and Restaurant 122 4th Street, Weyburn | 306.842.3312 | ceciliasbanquethall@gmail.com

84 ReFined WEYBURN & AREA

DINING

Merry Christmas from N.M. MCMAHON

s another year comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on the people and relationships that make our work so meaningful. We are incredibly grateful for the relationships we have built with

our clients and for the opportunity to be part of your lives and businesses throughout the year. From helping navigate the everyday to being there for the important decisions, it is a privilege to work alongside so many wonderful individuals,

families, farmers and businesses in our community. As you gather with the people who matter most this Christmas, we hope your holidays are filled with good company, meaningful moments and time to slow down and enjoy the season.

From all of us at N.M. McMahon, Merry Christmas and best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year. We look forward to continuing to be part of your journey in 2027.

L-R Nancy McMahon, Missy and Shikrie

604 Government Road South, Weyburn

306.842.5344

Drop-in.

Explore.

2026-27 Fall & Winter Leisure • Recreation • Arts • Culture

weyburn.ca

WWW.WEYBURNTOURISM.COM 11 - 3RD STREET | WEYBURN, SK 306.842.4738

CHRISTMAS KEY QUEST

RIVER PARK SPARKLES FAMILY FUN DAY

November 16-30, 2026 Various stores throughout Weyburn, visit our website for details!

December 7, 2026 - January 3, 2027 Lights turn on at dusk River Park Campground (403 Confederation Drive)

February 15, 2027 Credit Union Spark Centre (540 5th Street) Enjoy the spirit of our community with family & friends!

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What’s Up Weyburn

2027-28

Full-Time Post-Secondary Programs

Digital Marketing Diploma Continuing Care Assistant Weyburn | Live-On-Line Weyburn | Whitewood

Bachelor of Science in Practical Nursing Weyburn

Welding Estevan

Electrician Estevan

Heavy Equipment Operator Estevan

Power Engineering Estevan

Heavy Equipment & Truck & Transport Technician Estevan

APPLY TODAY

LEARN HERE. WORK HERE. STAY HERE.

1-866-999-7372 SOUTHEASTCOLLEGE.ORG

Everything

starts in the

KITCHEN

CABINETS

Custom cabinets from Kitchen Craft. Oak cabinetry with Canvas finish.

MICROWAVE

Frigidaire Gallery Series. 30 Inch Over-The-Range Microwave

BACKSPLASH

Ken Helfrick

Tierra Sol - Tiempo Shadow 3" X 12"

Kitchen & bath expert with 21 years of experience.

RANGE

Frigidaire Gallery Induction Range

HARDWARE

COUNTERTOPS

Richelieu- Modern Metal Pull- Matte Black

Irah Quartz

DESIGN

S U P P LY

I N STA L L

The Prairie Sky Co-op Home Centre team is here to help you every step of the way. From inspiration to installation, we make it easy to create a space you’ll love for years to come. 15 Courtlin Rd

306.848.3691