Weyburn Review - April 30, 2025

Page 1


Review

Weyburn Pharmacies now provided medication access

Sara Parks/SaskToday

Residents of Weyburn and surrounding areas will benefit from expanded access to mental health care through an innovative pharmacy-based pilot project.

The Government of Saskatchewan officially launched the Mental Health Medication Management Pharmacy Pilot Project on April 25 in Weyburn. This is a new initiative aimed at improving access to mental health medication and support.

“The Mental Health Medication Management Pharmacy Pilot Project uses an innovative team-based and patient-centred model, allowing management of mental health medication to take place directly within the pharmacy,” said Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr. “Pharmacists are highly

trained professionals. This agreement will allow pharmacists to use their full skills, build capacity within our health care system and improve patient access to care.”

An agreement has been reached with Dr. Thomas Ofuafor, a local psychiatrist, and Pharmasave Weyburn Pharmacy managed by Laura Resler. The agreement enables patients to access medication management services directly at the pharmacy, streamlining care and improving patient outcomes.

The collaborative practice agreement allows participating pharmacists to start patients on medications, change medications or dosages to optimize therapy, or discontinue medications as necessary. This frees up time to allow Dr. Ofuafor to see patients more quickly, see those with more complex condi -

tions and add more patients to his caseload.

“The project fosters collaboration between the patient and health care providers,” said Dr. Ofuafor. “It emphasizes timely access, patient involvement in care decisions, and a more responsive system for managing medications.”

A similar arrangement is set to launch in early May with Prairie Sky Co-op Pharmacy in Weyburn, further expanding options for local residents. “We are proud to announce a meaningful partnership between Pharmasave Weyburn and Weyburn Community Mental Health,” said Resler. “This reflects our shared commitment to improving access to mental health care and highlights the evolving role of pharmacists as front-line care providers.”

Continued on page 2

Conservative candidate

Steven Bonk won the Souris–Moose Mountain riding with more than 83 per cent of the vote in Monday’s federal election.

Liberal candidate

Democrat

head

candidate

Canadian

page 3

QUEEN ST. CROSSING CLOSED

The City of Weyburn, in collaboration with the Ministry of Highways and CPKC Rail, announces the permanent closure of the Queen St. rail crossing between Hwy 39 and Regina Ave., effective May 5, 2025. This decision aligns with Transport Canada’s safety standards and facilitates the upcoming construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Highways 13 and 39. The closure will permanently eliminate northbound access to Queen St. from Hwy 39. Access to Queen St. will now be exclusively available from Hwy 13. Additionally, southbound traffic on Queen St. will be restricted at Regina Ave., terminating near the A&B Concrete property. This measure addresses longstanding safety concerns, as the Queen St. crossing has been the site of multiple vehicle-train collisions, with ten incidents reported since 2010.

- Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Bonk defeated
Aziz Mian, New
Sheena Muir-
Koops, Green Party
Remi Rheault,
Future Party candidate Lyndon Dayman and independent Travis Patron.

Community News

Concert Series to present ‘Patsy Cline Project’ and ‘Hank Lives’

Weyburn Concert Series will present an evening of much loved music by Patsy Cline and Hank Williams, as performed by Lisa Brokop and Paul Jefferson.

The concert will take place at the Cugnet Centre on Thursday, May 8 at 7:30 p.m.

“Anyone who loves traditional country music will enjoy this show as we perform many of the classic songs from these two artists. We love to tell the stories behind the songs as well,” said Brokop, who embarked on a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Patsy Cline.

Lisa skillfully renders classics like ‘Sweet Dreams’, ‘Walking After Midnight’ and ‘Crazy’. She will be joined on stage by Paul Jefferson, a celebrated country artist and accomplished songwriter for various artists including Aaron

Tippin and Keith Urban. Paul channels the spirit of Hank Williams Sr., and blends classics with capitivating tales from Hank’s life.

“It’s important to Paul and I to keep the traditional sounds of country music alive. Patsy was very influential to me as a young girl starting out and Hank was a huge inspiration to Paul especially as a songwriter, as Hank wrote most all of his own music,” said Brokop.

“So many of our legends have passed on and they aren’t played on the radio like they used to be so we are here to keep the music alive!”

“The raw emotion of these particular two artists is what really pulls us in,” added Brokop. “It’s raw and real and that’s something you don’t hear as much of in today’s music.”

This concert aims to delight audiences of all ages.

“My favourite part of the show is when Paul and I sing together at the end of the show. Patsy and Hank never actually met as they were about a decade apart from each other with their music but it’s fun to imagine what it might have been like if they had,” added Brokop.

“It’s a lot of fun to take people on a walk down memory lane. We have a screen behind us that will project images of Patsy and Hank that really adds to the feel of the show as well as an amazing four-piece band!”

Tickets to this Weyburn Concert Series event are available at Old Fashion Foods and the Weyburn Review/Weyburn This Week office.

The much anticipated 2025-2026 season will be annoumced at this concert.

Mental health medication access

expanded thorough pharmacies

Continued from front page

Patients who are interested in determining their eligibility to participate in the pilot project are encouraged to contact Dr. Ofuafor and his team.

Based on the results of an evaluation, the program may be expanded to additional pharmacies in the future.

The pilot builds on the success of the Swift Current Pharmacy Care Pilot Project, launched in December 2023, and aligns with the provincial Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions introduced last fall. It also supports the June 2023 expansion of scope for pharmacists and other frontline health care providers.

Across Saskatchewan,

nearly 1,300 pharmacists serve communities through more than 430 licensed pharmacies—often acting as the first or only point of care for residents. Pharmacists in

the province can also renew prescriptions, administer vaccinations, conduct travel health consultations and prescribe treatments for over 30 minor ailments.

on Friday. Courtesy Sask. Ministry of Health

Paul Jefferson channels the spirit of Hank Williams Sr., and blends classics with capitivating tales from Hank’s life.
Photo – Courtesy Lisa Brokop
Lori Carr, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors and Rural and Remote Health in Weyburn

Community News

Bonk wins Souris-Moose Mountain with over 83 per cent of the vote

Conservative candidate Steven Bonk won the Souris–Moose Mountain riding with more than 83 per cent of the vote in Monday’s federal election.

Bonk defeated Liberal candidate Aziz Mian, New Democrat Sheena Muirhead Koops, Green Party candidate Remi Rheault, Canadian Future Party can-

didate Lyndon Dayman and independent Travis Patron.

“I’m very pleased, and I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve had from the people of Souris-Moose Mountain,” Bonk said on election night, which he spent in Weyburn. “They’ve given me a very strong mandate and put their trust in me, and I will represent them to the best of my ability.”

Bonk attributed his suc-

cess to the alignment between the Conservative Party’s values and those of the residents of SourisMoose Mountain.

“In our part of the world, we have very good, pragmatic, common-sense, hard-working people that put their communities first, their families first, and they understand the value of hard work, and those are exactly the values that the Con-

servative Party shares with them,” he said.

With such a commanding win, Bonk is now preparing to take constituents’ concerns to Ottawa. He emphasized that his top priorities will be addressing affordability and the cost of living, and reducing government interference.

“Travelling around the constituency during the election campaign, I heard over and over again that the people of Souris-Moose Mountain expect their government to be there to support them with government programs, to make sure that public safety is protected, to make sure that their infrastructure is protected. But they want the government to get out of their lives when it comes to this constant meddling that we’ve seen from the Liberal government for the past 10 years.

“The people here don’t mind paying taxes, they like to put in a good hard day’s work, support their communities, but they don’t want to be constantly overburdened by silly taxes and overspending from the federal government,” Bonk explained.

Bonk also noted other

issues raised by constituents during the campaign.

“People are concerned about agriculture, and currently the tariffs that we have being imposed on us by China, for example. They’re concerned about the overregulation of the resource industry, and the bills that the Liberals have put in that have basically made it impossible for new projects to start on the resource industry side,” he said.

As he prepares to represent the riding in Ottawa, Bonk pledged to stay connected to the concerns of Souris-Moose Mountain voters.

“I’ll be out and about in the riding, making sure that I’m connecting with constituents, hearing their concerns, and being their voice in Ottawa,” he said.

Bonk also plans to maintain multiple offices within the riding, including locations in Moosomin, Estevan, Weyburn and a new one in Assiniboia, to ensure accessibility for all constituents.

“A Conservative majority is something that I was hoping for, as well as the people of Souris Mousse Mountain were definitely hoping for. It looks like we’re holding the Liberals to a minority government, which is good because a majority would have been very detrimental,” Bonk said.

Bonk’s next steps will focus on addressing the needs of his riding while also pushing for a stronger Conservative voice in the federal government.

“I hope that we can be a very, very strong voice in opposition, and hopefully hold this government to account, and if it is a minority government, to force an election very soon so that we can win a strong majority,” he added.

Bonk also thanked the people in the riding for their support.

“I would like to thank the constituents and voters of Souris-Moose Mountain for putting their faith in me. I’ll do my very best to represent them to the best of my ability.”

Despite his overwhelming victory in the riding, Bonk expressed disappointment with the national election results. Although he had hoped for a Conservative majority, he acknowledged the outcome of a Liberal minority government, as of election night.

S even Stars suppor ters are speak ing up

Supporters of Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Project in Weyburn and district are letting their voices be heard.

Construction and operation of the proposed 200-megawatt wind project southeast of Weyburn is expected to create significant and sustained economic benefits for more than 30 years within the RM of Weyburn, the RM of Griffin and the City of Weyburn—including employment, contracting and business opportunities, annual tax revenues, lease payments to landowners, sponsorship of community-driven programs and initiatives, spin-offs from spending locally, and rural road upgrading.

Enbridge plans to invest in excess of $500 million to build the project, which includes 46 turbines, an electrical substation connecting to the SaskPower grid, and a local warehouse facility that will employ up to 8 persons full time once the project is operational

At the RM of Weyburn meeting on April 4, council advised it had received more than 40 letters of support to date for the project.

Local leaders and business owners have expressed optimism about the project’s potential to invigorate the local economy, diversify income sources, and attract further investment

Among those advocates is George Siourounis, owner of the Travelodge Weyburn, who stresses the necessity of such a development in the current economic climate.

“A project of this magnitude will have a major effect on our community,” Siourounis says. “The way our economy is right now, with what’s going on in the U.S., we need ever ything we can get in terms of economic development. We have agriculture and we have oil and gas, but we need something more to counteract the tariffs and we need more diversity in our economy. ”

In a similar vein, Darcy McCormick, CEO of locally owned construction firm Jerr y Mainil Ltd., says “the economic ripple effect of this project will have lasting benefits, making our region a more attractive and competitive place for businesses, investors, and families alike.”

McCormick shared concerns about the broader economy, given the current uncertainty of Canada-U.S trade “It’s apparent to many in the community how important it is for the future of Weyburn that we open the door to projects that will diversify and build our local economy like the Seven Stars Project.”

Echoing and amplifying such sentiments are several business associations, including Weyburn Regional Economic Development, the Weyburn District Planning Commission (WDPC), and the Weyburn and Saskatchewan chambers of

commerce – all of whom are solidly behind the Enbridge project.

“Weyburn has a proud histor y of pioneering transformative projects, often overcoming initial resistance,” says Nick Coroluick, WDPC chairperson. “This project will move forward somewhere— let’s ensure Weyburn is the beneficiar y rather than turning investment away.”

“The influx of workers and contractors means more customers for coffee shops, restaurants, and retail stores, driving additional sales and foot traffic,” explains Monica Osborn, executive director of the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce “More economic activity can also lead to increased wages for employees, further supporting the financial well-being of residents and families in our region.”

Meanwhile, the Province of Sas-

katchewan has communicated its views in recent correspondence to the RM of Weyburn and RM of Griffin. “The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to ensuring an affordable, reliable and secure supply of electricity for Saskatchewan,” Minister of Crown Investments Corporation Jeremy Harrison writes. While emphasizing that “ultimately the RM of Weyburn, RM of Griffin and Enbridge hold the decision-making power on how the Seven Stars Project proceeds, Harrison notes, “we will continue to work with municipalities and associations such as [Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities] and [Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association] to support responsible energy developments that we believe are in the best interest of the people of Saskatchewan.”

From left, Moosomin–Montmartre MLA Kevin Weedmark, newly elected Souris–Moose Mountain MP Steven Bonk, and Weyburn–Bengough MLA Mike Weger were in Weyburn watching as the federal election results came in on Monday.
Photo by Paper Moon Photography
Approximately 25 Weyburn residents showed their support for the project at the RM of Weyburn council meeting in April.
Conceptual look at Seven Stars’ wind turbine layout, simulated image from Range Road 2132, south of Township Road 82, facing south.

Agriculture, Oil & Business

U of R, SE College and Techhub to sign innovation agreement

SaskToday staff

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was formally signed between Southeast Techhub (SETH), Southeast College and the University of Regina on April 23 during the CRIT (Critical Resources, Innovation and Technology) Con-

ference in Estevan. The agreement marks the official launch of a new collaborative initiative—the Innovation Centre for Energy Development (ICED)—focused on supporting regional economic diversification, applied research and job creation in southeast Saskatchewan and Coronach.

The MOU outlines a five-year commitment to collaborate on opportunities in energy generation and storage, the small modular reactor (SMR) supply chain, battery supply chains and advanced manufacturing.

The partnership will also focus on attracting investment, supporting startups and building a workforce equipped with hands-on, industry-relevant skills.

“This partnership is about creating space for new ideas and new businesses to take root in

the CRIT (Critical Resources, Innovation and Technology) Conference in Estevan.

FIRSTEVERALL

southeast Saskatchewan,” said Gordon More, executive director of Southeast Techhub. “We’re bringing together industry, education and research in a way that’s focused on real outcomes— jobs, innovation and longterm economic growth.”

The ICED initiative is designed to bridge academic research with business and industry needs. It will provide pathways for students to participate in applied research projects while supporting the development of new technologies through collaboration with the private sector.

“We see this as a natural extension of our role in the region,” said Jody Holzmiller, president and CEO of Southeast College.

“Through enhanced trades training and innovation, Southeast College is committed to helping grow the skills and talent needed to support a changing energy landscape.

“The partnership will strengthen Southeast’s participation in applied re-

search, giving rural students an opportunity to solve specific, practical problems as well as improve existing practices, products or services.”

The University of Regina will contribute research expertise and help connect regional efforts to national and international networks.

“This is a meaningful step toward strengthening innovation in Saskatchewan,” said Dr. Jeff Keshen, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Regina. “We’re pleased to be part of a partnership that will support applied research, regional development, and opportunities for students and faculty alike.”

The signing took place during the lunch session of the CRIT Conference, hosted at Southeast College’s Estevan campus on April 23. The event will bring together more than 125 delegates from across North America, including representatives from academia, industry and government.

WPS deal with assault at local business

The Weyburn Police Service (WPS) responded to 78 calls for service during the period of April 21 through April 27, resulting in a total of 24 charges. Of the charges, 18 were laid under the Criminal Code, five under the Traffic Safety Act and one under the Summary Offences and Procedures Act.

During the week officers responded to several wellbeing checks. On Monday April 21, officers responded to a wellbeing check for an individual who had not been heard from for several days. Officers eventually located the individual in their home in critical condition. EMS attended the scene and subsequently transported the individual to Weyburn General Hospital.

On Tuesday April 22 an individual reported a very concerning matter to police. The individual reported that in the early hours of April 20, they had entered a business in the city. Upon entering the business they were punched in the face a number of times and knocked to the ground. Once on the ground, the victim’s hands and feet were bound with zipties. The victim was then placed in a chair and further assaulted by two males, being punched in the head and struck in the leg with a sledgehammer. The victim was eventually able to escape and flee with minor injuries.

In connection with the matter, a 33-year-old male and 27-year-old male have been arrested and charged. The pair was charged with assault, assault with a weapon and forcible confinement. Both males were remanded in custody. The 27-year-old male will be appearing in Weyburn Provincial Court on April 29 on the matter and the 33 -year-old male will be appearing in Estevan Provincial Court on May 1. In the early morning hours of Friday, April 25, police received a report of a theft in progress. The victims reported a male stole a surveillance camera from their residence and they were pursuing the thief. The victims followed and confronted the thief who returned the stolen camera, then fled the area. After a brief search by police, a 37-year-old male was located at a nearby residence and arrested for theft under $5000. The accused was released on an Officer’s Undertaking and will appear in Weyburn Provincial Court on June 10.

Officers were also kept busy with calls of traffic enforcement, suspicious persons, frauds, mischiefs, thefts and offender management compliance checks. Officers were also in attendance at Weyburn Red Wings games and the Weyburn Wildlife Federation Gun and Outdoor show noting no infractions.

A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was formally signed between Southeast Techhub (SETH), Southeast College and the University of Regina on April 23 during

Editorial & Opinion

Letter: City Council voices support for Seven Stars Energy Wind Project

To the Editor,

As Mayor and Council of the City of Weyburn, we wish to share our support—both with our own residents and with our neighbouring municipalities—for the Seven Stars Energy Wind Project.

We recognize that decisions like this one are not made lightly. As local leaders, we are all too familiar with the pressure of navigating diverse opinions and the weight of decisions that impact our communities today and for generations to come. That’s why we believe it’s important to speak openly and clearly about the long-term benefits this project can bring—not only to one area, but to our entire region.

At a time when infrastructure dollars are stretched thin and the needs of our growing communities continue to mount, we believe it is critical to welcome responsible, forward-thinking investment. Like any major infrastructure, this project represents a long-term investment in our future. Turning it away could mean turning down opportunities we may not see again for years.

The Seven Stars Energy Wind Project is a $500 million investment in southeast Saskatchewan—a scale of investment that is both rare and transformative. It brings the promise of construction and operational jobs, long-term economic activity, and the kind of momentum that signals our region is open for business, ready to grow, and prepared to lead.

Beyond the immediate economic impact, this project strengthens our energy landscape with greater diversity and resilience. It positions our region as a hub for innovation and sustainability, and it helps attract the skilled talent and additional investment that drive progress in today’s energy economy.

We understand that no project of this magnitude is without challenges. But we also know that through collaboration, respectful dialogue, and shared vision, our region can rise to meet those challenges together. The success of this project will depend on open communication, community engagement, and a commitment to making sure the development reflects the values and priorities of those who call this region home.

The City of Weyburn is proud to stand in support of the Seven Stars Energy Wind Project. We look forward to working alongside our neighbouring RMs and municipal partners to ensure this opportunity brings lasting, shared benefit to the southeast Saskatchewan region.

On behalf of Weyburn City Council, Mayor Jeff Richards City of Weyburn

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The Weyburn Review

When it comes to government there are three levels which impact our lives, and we might expect the three see each others as equals, at least when dealing with one another.

Certainly their responsibilities are different; the federal government dealing with other world governments, or local municipal governments worrying about the condition of the local main street as examples.

All three play their important role.

But, they also play by different rules.

At some point it was determined that the people we elect federally and provincially can collectively manage those levels of government going deep into red ink, somehow being wise enough to deal with debt and the payments associated with that.

But, it was at some point determined if you are on a local municipal government dealing with debt is somehow beyond the realm of local management, so by legislation they cannot budget with a deficit.

It seems somewhat patronizing of higher levels of government to be frank, although that isn’t particularly surprising.

Higher levels of government have a variety of tax tools available to raise money, and can create more as needed – the much maligned federal carbon tax a more recent incarnation as an example.

Local municipalities have property taxes, and then turn to higher levels of government asking for a better share of the pie in terms of dollars.

Long-time Yorkton Councillor Randy Goulden

who was recently re-elected president of the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association explained only nine cents of every tax dollar ends up in municipal coffers, yet it is the local level of government responsible for 60 per cent of the infrastructure we rely on.

It seems askew to be sure.

But the higher levels of government seem quite happy dictating what local municipal government do, how they do many things, and how they pay for it, rather than levelling the playing field somewhat.

“We need a new revenue structure,” said Goulden, adding they need a dialogue with the other levels of government regarding what a new structure might look like and how it might be implemented.

The current system dates back to confederation in 1867 and simply no longer fits current needs, said Goulden.

“We’re still using Queen Victoria’s hand me downs,” she said, adding nothing from more than a century ago is the same today including municipal funding needs.

That’s a massive case of understatement, and clearly more tools are needed at the local council table to do what needs to be done outside our collective front doors.

Change is needed.

Is the recently re-elected Scott Moe provincial government, and whoever we elect federally ready to negotiate change?

One would hope so, but the long history of the status quo system suggests it’s unlikely.

Sports & Leisure

Red Wings end playoff series with Mustangs, prepare for ID camp

The Red Wings finished their playoff run against Melfort, after the Mustangs won the final series in game 5 to claim the Canterra Seeds Cup for the second year in a row.

The Red Wings will host a draft ID camp on Friday, May 2 through Sunday, May 4, where they will start to consider players for the next year.

In game five of the SJHL final series, Melfort blanked Weyburn 3-0, winning the championship on their home ice. The first goal was scored in the second period, while the two other goals were scored in the third.

Angelo Zol was in net for the Red WIngs, and stopped 32 out of 34 attempts.

Melfort had also won 5-1 in game four of the series. The lone goal for the Red Wings was scored by Max Chakrabarti in the first period. Melfort scored once in the first period, once in the second, and three times in the third period.

Zol was in net for the Red Wings, and stopped 29 out of 32 attempts.

The Mustangs won 1-0 in game three of the series. The lone goal of the game was scored in the second period. Zol was in net for the Red Wings, and stopped 24 out of 25 attempts.

Melfort will now advance to the 2025 Centennial Cup National Junior A Championship in Calgary, Alta., which is set to begin May 8.

An electrifying win on Lightning Lotto for Weyburn woman

The Weyburn winner said she only plays Lightning Lotto occasionally, but this particular occasion took Samantha Thompson by storm!

“My coworker was with me [when I bought a ticket] and was the one to tell me I had won,” she said. “I just said, ‘I’ve gotta run home!’”

“It was very shocking,” she continued. “I’ve never won this much money in my life!”

Thompson has already been busy making plans on how to enjoy her new windfall.

“My husband and I are going to fix up the house and do some renovations,” she explained. “We’re planning a fishing trip up to Clear Lake as well!”

“It just feels surreal,” she admitted. “I don’t think it has sunk in yet!”

Thompson purchased her winning Lightning Lotto ticket from Prairie Sky Co-

op at 215 2 St. NE in Weyburn. She won her prize instantly by matching all five numbers selected in the April 7 draw: 7, 20, 31, 36, and 45.

For more than 50 years Sask Lotteries has been the main fundraiser for more than 12,000 sport, culture and recreation groups in communities across the province! Since 1974, through an agreement with the Government of Saskatchewan, lottery sales in Saskatchewan have been used to provide more than $1.4 billion to support athletes from the grassroots level to the international stage, connect youth to artistic experiences, help residents experience the beauty of the parks that cover the province and so much more. Learn more about lottery beneficiaries, as well as games, jackpots, winning numbers and more at sasklotteries.ca.

Weyburn Red Wings defenceman Josh Karman (No. 20) hugs goaltender Angelo Zol (No. 33) following the club’s 3-0 loss to the Melfort Mustangs in Game 5 of the SJHL final.
Photo – Courtesy Jason Kerr/Daily Herald
Representatives from the Town of Assiniboia attended a Red Wings home game, during their SJHL final series against Melfort. Assiniboia had provided access to the Southland Co-op Centre to the Red Wings, when Crescent Point Place had to be closed during the season.
Photo – Courtesy Steph VandeSype

DeFeet Dance Challenge

Many dancers showcased their skills during the DeFeet Dance Challenge, held at the Cugnet Centre from April 24 to 26.

Photos – Sabrina Kraft/ Weyburn Review

Community News

repair a tear in her dress. The

ed Church will present the musical ‘Little Women’ from May 1 to 4.

Community members voice strong support for the Seven Stars Energy Project.

“A project of this magnitude will have a major effect on our community The way our economy is right now, with what’s going on in the U.S., we need everything we can get in terms of economic development We have agriculture and we have oil and gas, but we need something more to counteract the tariffs and we need more diversity in our economy.”

George Siourounis, Owner, Travelodge Weyburn

“Weyburn has a proud history of pioneering transformative projects…This project will move forward somewhere—let’s ensure Weyburn is the beneficiary rather than turning investment away.”

Nick Coroluick, Chairperson, Weyburn District Planning Commission

“The influx of workers and contractors means more customers for coffee shops, restaurants, and retail stores, driving additional sales and foot traffic. More economic activity can also lead to increased wages for employees, further supporting the financial well-being of residents and families in our region.”

Monica Osborn, Executive Director, Weyburn Chamber of Commerce

“The economic ripple effect of this project will have lasting benefits, making our region a more attractive and competitive place for businesses, investors, and families alike.”

Darcy McCormick, CEO, Jerry Mainil Ltd.

Transportation appeal approved at meeting by SE Cornerstone

Submitted by Norm Park, Contracted Reporter for SECPSD

The South East Cornerstone Public School Division (SECPSD) held a relatively brief open business session on April 16.

The board approved a transportation appeal for a student that involved school bus accessibility.

A brief round table discussion at the opening brought forth a number of comments from board members and Education Director Keith Keating. They attended school-based events and educational promotions and projects they were willing to share with

other board members and the public.

While the April agenda, just prior to an Easter season break was fairly light, it appears as if the May calendar is relatively full with various events that will engage the board members.

For instance, on May 6 the board has planned a strategic planning meeting that will be immediately followed by an annual session with their southeast Saskatchewan educational partners, the Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division’s board. That will lead to additional information that will require responses and decisions.

Weyburn-based company honoured for commitment to safe digging practices

A Weyburn-based company has been recognized for its dedication to safety and damage prevention in excavation work. Jerry Mainil Limited was recently awarded the SaskEnergy Safe Digging Excellence Award, acknowledging its outstanding commitment to safe digging practices in Saskatchewan.

The award, presented at the Dig Safe Awareness Breakfast in Weyburn on April 24, honours organizations that prioritize community safety by ensuring proper line locates are completed before any digging begins.

“Jerry Mainil Limited does not do any excavating without having line locates completed prior to commencing any project,” said Darcy McCormick, CEO of Jerry Mainil Limited.

“The time it takes to request line locates is neg-

ligible and the peace of mind that this gives to the customer, the equipment operator and the contractor is invaluable.”

Operating throughout southeast Saskatchewan, Jerry Mainil Limited provides a range of services, including civil construction, pipeline integrity inspections, maintenance, and reclamation work.

Award celebrates safety leaders

The Safe Digging Excellence Award, now in its first year, recognizes contractors who help prevent damage to underground infrastructure. SaskEnergy highlighted Jerry Mainil Limited’s perfect safety record—zero contacts with buried infrastructure—along with its consistent adherence to locating requirements.

“The Safe Digging Excellence Award was created to recognize and celebrate contractors, like Jerry Mainil Limited, who reduce the risk

of damage to underground infrastructure,” said Kevin Adair, executive vice president of customer service operations at SaskEnergy.

“Thanks to the conscientiousness of the digging community, SaskEnergy has had record low contacts with our buried infrastructure over the past three years. Jerry Mainil Limited is an example for other contractors in the province when it comes to their work around buried infrastructure and this award is about highlighting their practices.”

Protecting Saskatchewan’s infrastructure

With nearly 90,000 kilometres of gas lines serving more than 400,000 urban and rural customers across the province, SaskEnergy emphasizes the importance of damage prevention. Safe digging practices reduce risks to public safety, prevent service disruptions, and avoid costly repairs.

Along with Jerry Mainil Limited, two other Saskatchewan businesses were honoured this year including Yaremy Screw Piles (Melfort) – Awarded on April 3 in Tisdale, and Parkland Contracting and Vac Services (Yorkton) –Awarded on April 16 in Yorkton.

All recipients have completed at least 25 line locates annually over the past three years with no infrastructure contacts.

The awards were presented as part of Dig Safe Month, an initiative led by the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA).

For more information on safe digging practices, visit saskenergy.com/digsafe.

Amy March (Lila Anderson) teases her sister Josephine (Brittany Barber), while Meg (Brinlee Klapak ) and Beth (Jyllian Payak) help
Spirit Singers of Grace Unit-
Photo –
Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Sara Parks SaskToday
Darcy McCormick, CEO of Jerry Mainil Limited.

Community News

Wey-Clean Week to be held May 5-9

Wey-Clean Week is back from May 5–9, and we’re calling on local businesses, clubs, and organizations to roll up their sleeves and help keep Weyburn beautiful!

The City of Weyburn is committed to creating a cleaner, safer, and more inviting community. Tackling litter and properly disposing of waste are small actions that make a big impact.

What’s New for 2025?

This year, clean-up days align with garbage collection zones—making it easier and more efficient for everyone. Note: There will be no roll-off bins around the city.

Here’s the updated schedule: May 5 – Citywide + Area 4; May 6 –Area 5; May 7 – Area 1; May 8 – Area 2; and May 9 – Area 3 + Downtown.

We’re simplifying this year’s Wey-Clean Week: Use your household bins for garbage and recycling. Toss small items in public garbage cans while cleaning parks or cityowned spaces. Team up with a neighbour to share bin space. Sort and recycle when you can. Planning a big cleanup? Contact us and we’ll help coordinate garbage pickup! Together, let’s make Weyburn cleaner, greener, and even more beautiful!

Souris-Moose Mountain candidates react to election defeats

Most of the candidates who were defeated in Souris-Moose Mountain in Monday night’s federal election weren’t surprised with the results.

With 210 of the riding’s 211 polling stations reporting as of Tuesday morning, Steven Bonk of the Conservative Party was elected to a first term as the riding’s MP, garnering 34,630 of the 41,294 votes cast, or 83.9 per cent of the popular vote.

Aziz Mian of the Liberal Party was second with 3,982 votes (4.5 per cent), followed by Sheena Muirhead Koops of the New Democratic Party with 1,860 votes (4.5 per cent), Remi Rheault of the Green Party with 364 votes (0.9 per cent), Lyndon Dayman of the Canadian Future Party with 303 votes (.7 per cent), and independent candidate Travis Patron with 155 votes (.4 per cent).

Sheena Muirhead Koops was running in an election for the first time. Everything on election night came as a surprise to her.

“I’m really proud of the team that came together on pretty short notice,” said Muirhead Koops. She hadn’t heard much about Mian and people she

talked to didn’t know anything about him, either. But Muirhead Koops didn’t come into the election with much in the way of expectations.

“There’ll be lots of time afterwards to listen to commentary, but I certainly know I had a lot of fun meeting new people, and just getting to places [I had been to] two, three or four times in my life,” she said.

Muirhead Koops said she would like to run again for the NDP, and she is already thinking about what the next term could look like as the party is rebuilt in the southeast, where the party and universal health care began.

She spent the past few weeks talking with small and medium-sized businesses about what it will take to revitalize these communities.

And while the NDP struggled on election night, finishing with its lowest number of seats since 1993, Muirhead Koops said she was proud of the campaign outgoing leader Jagmeet Singh run and how Singh was talking with people and standing with people in all circumstances.

The campaign was a lot of fun, and Koops Muirhead is proud she was able to visit

all eight Indigenous reserves in the riding.

Remi Rheault offered his congratulations to Bonk on the election victory. He believes it was time for some change politically, and will be monitoring the political landscape during this term.

This was his first time running in Souris-Moose Mountain, since he is new to the area. He ran for the federal Greens in Ontario in 2021 and provincially for the party in the 2024 Saskatchewan election.

“It was such an important vote, and it’s my first time running in this constituency, being a new resident in the area. I’m happy with whatever people put their faith in me, and I will continue working towards earning their respect and earning their vote for the next time.”

He vowed he would run in Souris-Moose Mountain again, and he is pleased to have settled down in Grenfell.

Rheault said people need to keep a close watch on the

federal political scene. He’s glad to see people turning out as much as possible.

“It seems that people have found an opportunity to go out and voice [their opinions] through their vote, and I’m very, very happy with that,” said Rheault.

Lyndon Dayman says he is disappointed after finishing fifth, but even more so he is upset to see federal results. “I’m not very happy with the results. The last thing I wanted to see was another Liberal government,” Dayman said.

Dayman said his campaign was hindered by the snap election call, leaving little time for the party and candidates to get organized or raise funds.

Despite receiving supportive messages, Dayman said many voters ultimately stuck with the federal Conservatives to avoid splitting the right-leaning vote.

He urged his supporters to stay involved and “keep the faith, keep fighting.”

“We’re a grassroots com-

will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.

* Penalty is calculated to the date of the Notice and will continue to accrue as applicable.

munity,” he said. “You got to vote, you got to vote your conscience, and don’t give up. We have a Liberal government, but we just can’t give up here.”

Looking ahead, Dayman said he was uncertain whether he would continue in politics, citing the personal toll of campaigning.

Travis Patron said the riding has long been a conservative riding, so the size of Bonk’s victory wasn’t surprising. He believes he would have captured more votes if he would have been able to run under the Canadian Nationalist Party (CNP) banner, which he had listed on his nomination paper. The party, which he founded, was deregistered by Elections Canada in 2022.

“I continue to maintain our party was wrongfully deregistered, so I think that has had an effect on the publicity of my cam -

paign,” said Patron. When he ran federally in Souris-Moose Mountain in 2019 for the CNP, he finished last in the six-person field with 168 votes.

In his previous campaign in 2019, there were candidate forums in Estevan, Weyburn and Moosomin. Patron said they were a good opportunity to introduce the candidates to the local area, and have people come out and talk face to face with the candidates on the ballot.

“We didn’t have that this time around,” said Patron.

“I think that took something away from the election in this district. I was a bit disappointed there were no candidate forums this time around. If the chambers of commerce aren’t able to host forums, then Patron suggested Elections Canada should step in and organize them. He doesn’t know if he will run again in a future election.

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Rural Municipality of Weyburn No 67 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection by contacting the office of the Assessor of the municipality at (306) 842-2314 or by email at rm.67@sasktel.net, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the following days, Monday to Friday, April 30 to June 30, 2025.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the RM OF WEYBURN NO 67. All appeals must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to RM OF WEYBURN NO 67, 1633 1st Avenue NE, WEYBURN, SK S4H 3E7, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.

Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the RM OF WEYBURN NO 67, 1633 1st Avenue NE, WEYBURN, SK S4H 3E7. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100.00 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the 30th of June, 2025.

Dated this 30th day of April, 2025.

Jenna Smolinski, Assessor

Logan and Catherine play a ballooon-balancing game, while attending the Easter Break camp held at the Free Methodist Church.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

Classifieds

TO

In the estate of EVELYN JEAN PRETTY, late of Weyburn Saskatchewan, deceased. All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 30th day of May, 2025.

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Communithon group outlines path toward independence

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The Weyburn Communithon held its annual general meeting earlier this month and charted the organization’s future direction as it prepares for an independent transition from United Way Regina.

Chairperson Lindsay Manko-Bauche led the meeting, where attendees discussed a range of updates, including financial planning, future organizational structure, and upcoming event logistics.

A key development shared at the meeting was the Communithon executive’s work with United Way Regina to develop a memorandum of understanding. This document will formally outline the separation process and the steps needed to move forward as an independent non-profit organization.

tee meeting is scheduled for May 12 at 7 p.m. at Southeast College.

Attendees at the AGM included Lynda Rideout, Lindsay Manko-Bauche, Tasha Collins, Raven Daer, Yvonne Jones, Carley Istace, Krista Hubic, Dominika Krzeminska, Corey Morrissette, Laura Morissette, Natalie Morrissette, Darren Abel, Robyn Edwards Bentz (UW Regina), Helen Crocombe, Lori Wolstenholme, Nanette Ermel, Marna McManus, and Ang Bedore.

Those unable to attend included Dallen Hodgkin, Lindsee Michel, Laura Eddy, Allyson Wright, and Korryn Kubashek.

The annual Communithon is aired by Access Communications and held at the Weyburn Legion. The first annual Communithon was held in 1981. They raise funds to help many organizations in Weyburn and area. More than $4 million raised has been invested back into community agencies.

“We have submitted a letter with conditions we need to outline, in terms of logistics,” said MankoBauche. “We have spoken to a lawyer and he is going to help us set up our non-profit. We have obtained board members.”

United Way Regina has committed to providing seed funding for the 2025 Communithon, as a loan that the organization plans to repay.

Member agencies are encouraged to participate on subcommittees and as volunteers during the event.

The next subcommit -

The funds raised during the Weyburn Communithon are distributed among eight local member agencies, including Big Brothers & Big Sisters, Canadian Mental Health Association, Weyburn Care-a-Van, CNIB Foundation, Envision Counselling and Support Centre, Inclusion Weyburn, Southeast Advocates, and Spinal Cord Injury Saskatchewan.

Community News

Weyburn Library celebrates spring by opening seed and tool lending libraries

Seed and tool lending libraries will open at the Weyburn Public Library in May, in addition to regular programming for children, teens and adults.

The seed library allows residents to pick up seed packets from the Library, with the intent to return any harvest seeds from plants in the fall. The tool library includes a cabinet full of tools to get started on a gardening journey or to do some yardwork. Stop by the Weyburn Public Library to find out more about these programs.

A Caring Saturday for Newscomers Program (adults only) will be held on Saturday, May 3 at 2 p.m. Any Newcomer children are welcome to join the ‘Lego Masters’ program occuring at the same time.

A Mother’s Day matinee, ‘The Wild Robot’, will be shown at the Library on Saturday, May 10 at 2 p.m. Chess club meets on Saturday, May 10 and Saturday, May 24 at 2:30 p.m. Residents are welcome to learn about chess with Daniel Waterfall.

Toddler and Me programs in May include the ‘Bat Tempered Ladybird’ on Thursday, May 8, ‘Butterflies’ on Tuesday, May 20 and ‘Hummingbirds’ on Thursday, May 29. All Toddler and Me programs are open to ages two and three, accompanied by a caregiver, and start at 10 a.m.

Baby and Me programs include a special ‘Hummingbirds’ craft program on Monday, May 5 and ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ on Monday,

May 26. This program is open to ages newborn to two years, accompanied by a caregiver, at 10 a.m.

Kids Korner programs include a Mother’s Day Craft on Tuesday, May 6, Toddler Muffins on Thursday, May 15 and ‘Bugs, Bugs, Bugs’ on Tuesday, May 27. Kids Korner is open to ages four and five, accompanied by a caregiver, and start at 10 a.m.

Junior Programs in May include Squishy Circuits on Thursday, May 1, Chef it Up on Wednesday, May 14, Yoga with the Helpful Hippy on Thursday, May 22, and ‘Bugs, Bugs, Bugs’ on Thursday, May 29. Junior programs are available for ages six through eight and start at 4 p.m.

A special paint night craft with Malia will be held for the junior program on Wednesday, May 7 at 4:30 p.m.

Tween programs in May include Squishy Circuits on

Monday, May 5, Yoga with the Helpful Hippy on Tuesday, May 13, and Chef it Up on Monday, May 26. These Tween programs are available for ages nine through 12, and start at 4 p.m.

A special paint night craft with Malia for Tweens will be held on Wednesday, May 21 at 4:30 p.m.

Teen arts and crafts programs include a Kindess Rocks session on Tuesday, May 6 at 6 p.m., Affirmation Paint Splatter program on Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m. and a DIY Glamorous Glittery Objects on Tuesday, May 20 at 6 p.m. Teen food and drink programs include Myths and Munchies on Wednesday, May 7 at 6 p.m., a chocolate pizza on Tuesday, May 13 at 4 p.m., and fruit pizza cookies on Wednesday, May 28 at 6 p.m.

Teen fun and games programs include After Hours hide and seek on Friday, May 16 at 6:30 p.m., Anime

club on Tuesday, May 13 at 6 p.m., and a comic book coasters and magnets session at Skies the Limit on Saturday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Other Teen programs include a Hot Tools Bootcamp with Brenna Sellstead on Wednesday, May 21 at 5 p.m., a Volunteens session to create pet portraits for the Humane Society on Tuesday, May 6 and Tuesday, May 20 at 4 p.m., and a parent and teen woskshop on Thursday, May 22 at 6 p.m.

Adult arts and craft programs include Pet Portratis on Monday, May 12 at 6:30 p.m., a Maker’s Nook on Tuesday, May 13 from 1 to 3 p.m., and a Jam Session with RD Jones on Saturday, May 24 at 2:30 p.m.

There will be a book club, to read and discusss ‘The Wangs vs the World’ by Jade Chang on Thursday, May 8 at 6:30 p.m. Dungeons and Dragons is held

very Monday at the Library at 6 p.m., and welcomes new adult and teen players to join the games.

For adult food and drink programs, there will be a Sip, Snack and Chat on Thursday, May 15 at 6:30 p.m., and a No Bake Protein Balls program on Tuesday, May 20 at 6:30 p.m.

Mindful Mingle, a special presentation relating to dementia and memory loss, followed by support conversations from the Alzheimer Society, will be held Wednesday, May 21 at 10 a.m.

The Southeast College will host an information night for teens and young adults to come learn about their courses on Thursday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m.

The Social Circle for Southeast Advocates will be held on Thursday, May 1 at 2:30 p.m. This is an opportunity for newcomers to practice English, meet new people and chat.

Regan Lanning sets up ‘Nikkel’s Worth – A Lifetime of Photos by Greg Nikkel” exhibit, a heartfelt retrospective celebrating the work of a man who spent decades capturing the heart and soul of Weyburn and its people. The exhibit is on display at the Weyburn Art Gallery in the Credit Union Spark Centre.

Photo – Sabrina Kraft/ Weyburn Review

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