Weyburn Review - October 15, 2025

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Amelia and Julianne used a stethoscope to listen to their heartbeats during the opening gala reception for ‘The Moving Heart’, an interative display at the Weyburn Art Gallery. -

launches new chapter as local foundation

SaskToday

After over four decades of raising funds and building community, Communithon is entering a bold new chapter, launching the Weyburn Communithon Foundation Inc. to keep supporting local families and programs.

For 44 years, Communithon and United Way have been connected through a shared commitment to community. Thirty-eight of those years were as Weyburn United Way, and more recently in partnership with United Way Regina.

“Together, we have supported vital programs, strengthened local agencies, and built a tradition that has touched countless lives in Weyburn,” said Todd Sandin, director of busi-

ness strategy for the Weyburn Community Foundation Inc.

Communithon now has the opportunity to take the next step — charting a path that reflects the unique spirit of Weyburn. This year, Communithon begins a new chapter as Weyburn Communithon Foundation Inc.

“We are excited in this new evolution for Communithon as it becomes stronger and more deeply connected to the people and the various member agencies it will support right here at home,” said Sandin.

For Communithon 2025, the new foundation has secured its business licence and is in the process of acquiring charitable status with the Canada Revenue Agency. Until the charitable

number is finalized, Communithon will issue business receipts to supporters. Future events will issue charitable receipts directly from Weyburn Communithon Foundation.

Most importantly, every performance, every volunteer hour, and every dollar raised will remain in Weyburn — supporting neighbours, friends and families.

“This October 24 and 25 at the Weyburn Legion, we invite you to join us as Communithon is coming home. With your help, we can ensure that the legacy of support built alongside United Way continues to thrive in our community for generations to come,” said Sandin.

Supporters can make donations at www. communithon.com.

TWINNING PROJECT CLOSE TO FINISH

SaskToday

A $29 million project that began in February near Weyburn will see 5.8 km of twinning on Highway 39 and a roundabout at its intersection with Highway 13.

As early as later this week, a detour adjacent to the roundabout will be removed. Highway 39 traffic will then begin to flow on a portion of the roundabout. Work on nearby Highway 13 will continue but is expected to be using the roundabout by the end of October.

The twinning work on Highway 39 is anticipated to be open to traffic by month’s end. The entire project is expected to finish this fall, nearly one year ahead of schedule.

“Bridge, culvert, road and other work continues through October,” said Highways Minister David Marit said. “Please remember to slow down, obey all signs and instructions when approaching any highway work - and be sure to check the clearance heights before heading out if you are hauling oversized cargo. We want everyone to get home safely this Thanksgiving weekend.”

By using the Orange Zone Update and checking the Highway Hotline, drivers and shippers can plan more efficient routes to reach their destinations.

The Ministry of Highways continues with various work this construction season. New projects are starting, underway or ending.

Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

Community News

Weyburn4Warmth meet at Calvary Baptist Church

Submitted by Sharlene Stanley Weyburn for Warmth is group of makers who create a variety of knitted, crocheted, and stitched items of warmth from donated materials, which are then gifted to those in need in Weyburn and area. This is a new organization in Weyburn who has felt a resounding response from the community with significant donations of yarn and fabric and many makers volunteering to crochet, knit or sew items of warmth.

The group formed offi-

cially in August. Throughout the summer months, volunteers worked to the get donation barrels in place, to contact organizations and charities to act as distributors of the items of warmth, and to locate a meeting space.

The group of makers met at Calvary Baptist Church on October 8. The church offers a large meeting space with plenty of storage to allow Weyburn4Warmth to meet, sort through materials and finished projects, bag items of warmth to then be sent to the applicable charities to

Barb Hart shared a laugh with Donna Moe as she displayed a quilt she completed with a warm fleece backing. A donor who is no longer able to sew had created and donated the quilt top.

distribute.

Examples of items of warmth commonly requested and created are scarves, mittens, toques, slippers, quilted or knitted or crocheted lap covers, blankets for Babies, cribs, and single beds. Many of these items were sorted and sent to those in need in our community recently. As temperatures drop, the group predicts an increase in requests for toques, mitts and scarves.

Yarn and fabric drop-off locations are at Weyburn Public Library, Collabartive Studios, and Southeast Advocates. Local residents who would like to volunteer by quilting, sewing, knitting, or crocheting, or want more information, can contact them at Weyburn4Warmth@ gmail.com. Follow them on Facebook “Weyburn4Warmth”.

The Weyburn Police Service responded to 89 calls for service during the week of October 5 through October 12, 2025. The following is a summary of notable incidents from this period:

Uttering Threats

Police received a complaint on October 5, involving an adult male making repeated phone calls, during which he allegedly

The Weyburn Fire Department held an open house on October 8 during Fire Prevention Week. Hot dogs, chips, pop and popcorn were served to those who attended. The fire crew answered questions and gave tours of the station and the equipment.

made threats to harm another individual and damage their property. The suspect was located, arrested, and charged. He was later released on conditions.

Traffic Collision

Police responded to a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 39 and Third Street on October 6. While no injuries were reported, both vehicles sustained significant damage and were towed from the scene. There were no independent witnesses, and both drivers believed they had the right of way. No tickets were issued as a result.

Driving Complaints

Throughout the week, police received an above-average number of complaints regarding erratic driving, speeding, and loud vehicles. In several cases, drivers were issued warnings. In others, charges were laid for speeding or excessive noise.

Police remind the public that if a witness can provide a statement, license plate, and can identify the driver, charges will be laid directly against the driver. If the

driver cannot be identified, the registered owner of the vehicle will be charged with the offence.

Conditions Checks

Police conducted several checks on individuals who were subject to court-ordered conditions. Two individuals were found to be non-compliant and were charged accordingly.

Mental Health/Wellbeing Calls

Officers responded to eight mental health or wellbeing-related calls throughout the week. All situations were resolved peacefully without further incident.

Seasonal Reminder

With winter weather arriving early and icy road conditions reported, the Weyburn Police Service reminds all motorists to slow down, drive to conditions, and ensure they have adequate time and space to arrive at their destinations safely.

*Anyone with information regarding any one of these matters, or any other matter of a criminal nature, is encouraged to contact the Weyburn Po -

lice Service at (306) 8483250, the local RCMP Detachment at 310-RCMP (7267), or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Fall Suppers

Creelman Memorial Hall Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Weyburn Comprehensive School

Fowl Supper Thursday, October 16, 2025

Calvary Baptist Church Saturday, October 25, 2025

Grace United Church Monday, October 27, 2025

Photo Leslie Coulter/Weyburn Review
Photo courtesy Sharlene Stanley

Applications now open for 2026 Agriculture Student Scholarship

The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan announced that applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Agriculture Student Scholarship. There are four awards available: a grand prize scholarship valued at $6,000 and three runner up scholarships at $3,000 each.

“Young people are the future of Canadian agriculture, and their passion and fresh

ideas are essential to its longterm success,” said Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald. “That is why I am so pleased to support initiatives like the Agriculture Student Scholarship, which will encourage innovation and help prepare the next generation to lead our sector forward.”

“Each year, we are proud of the passion and drive our

young leaders continue to display,” said Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison. “The Agriculture Student Scholarship celebrates young talent and encourages future leaders in our world-class agriculture sector.”

This year’s theme is solutions to challenges in agriculture. Scholarship applicants are encouraged to

explore innovative farming practices, new technologies and creative ways industry can solve current and future challenges facing the industry. The scholarship encourages applicants to share their personal perspectives on the future of agriculture in Saskatchewan.

“There are so many careers and opportunities in agriculture and I want to bring more awareness to them,” 2025 Agriculture Student Scholarship grand-prize winner Abbey Norek said. “Trying to get more young people involved in spreading awareness about agriculture and improving public per-

ception is important.”

Students are invited to submit a creative threeminute video or 1,000-word essay discussing solutions to challenges in agriculture. Scholarships will be awarded to Saskatchewan students in Grade 12 and/or recent high school/GED graduates entering agriculture-related post-secondary studies in fall 2026.

The deadline for applications is March 1, 2026. For more information on the Agriculture Student Scholarship Program, visit: Saskatchewan.ca/ag-scholarship.

This award is funded

through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year (April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2028), $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agrifood, and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Council greenlights Traveland RV

SaskToday

Weyburn city council voted unanimously to give first reading to two proposed amendments to the city’s official community plan (OCP) and zoning bylaw that could pave the way for Traveland RV’s expansion.

vote saying, “We’re voting on first reading to change the official community plan and not for the rezoning.”

Lee Malcolm presented the proposal to council during their regular meeting on September 22.

A grand opening celebration was held at Field & Flour Fine Foods on October 7. A ribbon cutting marked the opening of the gourmet food store, which features international cheeses, chocolate and giftware. Pictured, l-r, Mayor Jeff Richards, Weyburn Chamber of Commerce representative, Ashton Lorieau, store owners Vicki and Dan Leas, and Weyburn-Bengough MLA, Mike Weger. Field & Flour is located at 405 Souris Avenue, adjacent to the Welsh Kitchen and Bakery.

The amendments will allow for highway commercial development on proprieties currently designated as parks and open space and urban holding.

Mayor Jeff Richards clarified the scope of the

Co-op Fuel Good Day sets new record

More than $795,000 was raised as part of Fuel Good Day 2025, according to Federated Co-op Ltd.

This marks a new record for the annual event, surpassing the previous record of $704,000 raised last year.

At the Prairie Sky Co-op Gas Bars in Weyburn, Milestone, Lang and Beaubier, ten cents per litre was collected, resulting in nearly 50,000 litres of fuel being purchased, raising $5,000 on September 16.

According to General Manager, Kevin Arther, the funds will go to three local organizations - the Weyburn Young Fellows Park for its new location at the site of the old Haig School, the Milestone Student Council and the Prairie Hills First Responders.

Federated Co-op added that all funds raised go directly back to communities across Western Canada, .

Fuel Good Day is a celebrated event that is held each year in September. For every litre of fuel sold, participating Co-ops donated a minimum of five cents to a local charity or non-profit organization. Since 2017, more than $5.6 million has been raised, supporting over 1,000 local organizations.

“On behalf of Co-op, we sincerely appreciate your support of this year’s event, and for helping make a difference in communities across Western Canada,” the organization added.

Weyburn Young Fellows representatives, l-r, Warren Douglas, Todd Bedore and Reed Anderson are presented with a $3500 cheque from Prairie Sky Co-op Member Relations Manager, Danielle Wahl. The funds were proceeds from Fuel Good Day held September 16 and will go towards the construction of a new park at the site of the old Haig School.

Milestone School

SCC president, Marie Keys is presented with a cheque from Milestone Prairie Sky Co-op C-store Manager, Charlene Parker. The monies were a result of proceeds from Fuel Good Day held September 16.

The amendments, requested by Keith Epp of Traveland RV, seeks to rezone portions of of 921 Government RD SW and a parcel identified as Seventh Ave. SW. All would be rezoned to highway commercial under the proposal. This would allow expansion on all three properties they purchased.

Planning and Development Co-ordinator Shara-

“We have to do the first reading now,” said Malcolm, adding that they would then do their advertisements, and at the October 14 meeting would do second and third reading.

The bylaws will now be sent to the Weyburn District Planning Commission for input. Final approval of the OCP amendment will require sign-off from the province.

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Agriculture, Oil & Business

Producers finish combining, start fall field work in southeast region

Harvest is starting to wrap up in much of the southeast region as lots of producers have finished combining. According to the weekly crop report for the period of September 30 to October 6, producers that have finished are starting their fall field work such as hauling bales, drying grain, harrowing and moving livestock.

Harvest in the southeast is 92 per cent complete. All

winter cereal, field pea and lentil crops have been harvested. Additionally, most spring cereal crops have been harvested as progress sits at 99 per cent for durum and barley, 98 per cent for oats, 97 per cent for spring wheat and 81 per cent for canary seed. Producers still harvesting are mainly combining oilseed crops as 89 per cent of canola, 94 per cent of mustard, 73 per cent of flax and 66 per cent of

soybeans are in the bin. Crop yields in the southeast are slightly higher than the provincial average for all crop types this year. Spring cereals are yielding 53 bushels per acre for hard red spring wheat, 78 bushels per acre for barley, 49 bushels per acre for durum and 97 bushels per acre for oats. Pulses yielded 45 bushels per acre for field peas, 1,846 pounds per acre for lentils and 2,205

pounds per acre for chickpeas. Finally, oilseed crops yielded 53 bushels per acre for canola, 1,555 pounds per acre for mustard, 40 bushels per acre for soybeans and 27 bushels per acre for flax.

Hard red spring wheat grain quality in the southeast is better than the provincial average this year. Reporters indicate that 70 per cent of hard red spring wheat graded 1 Canada Western (CW), 18 per cent 2 CW, six per cent 3 CW and six per cent CW Feed.

Peavey

There was limited rainfall last week which allowed producers to get lots of combining and field work done. Most rain fell around Wapella with 25 millimetres (mm), followed by the Carnduff area with 16 mm and Holdfast area with 12 mm.

Topsoil moisture levels didn’t change much from last week. Currently, cropland topsoil moisture is two per cent surplus, 69 per cent adequate, 24 per cent short and five per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture

is 65 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and six per cent very short. Pasture topsoil moisture is 64 per cent adequate, 30 per cent short and six per cent very short. There was minimal crop damage last week, but wildlife and migratory birds continue to feed on crops still in the field. Wind also blew some swaths around which will complicate harvest, and some reporters are noting that some of their spring cereals are sprouting which is causing minor losses.

Mart plans a return to Sask.

Peavey Mart is planning a comeback and could open again in a Saskatchewan location near you.

The Red Deer-based ag-related company, which had been in business from 1967 until earlier this year, confirmed on its website on September 30 that Peavey Mart will relaunch in late fall 2025 in Alberta, with stores in Spruce Grove, Westlock, Camrose and Lacombe.

first four relaunched stores are just the first wave. The company says in a release that as the second tranche of investors is onboarded, the ownership group will target openings in other previously held markets, including Saskatchewan.

of their Peavey Mart locations across Canada.

The Souris Valley Sharpshooter Photography Club partnered with the Weyburn Credit Union to create their 2026 calendars, featuring stunning local images that celebrate the community. The club was presented with a $500 honourarium, and were provided copies of the finished calendar. Back row, l-r, Marianne Robillard, Karen Dunham, Pat Maloney, Yvonne Kerr, Lorena Squires and Joshua Hoffart. Middle row, Shelley Hoffart, Kent Barrett and Sharlene Stanley. Front row, Mary Jacobs, Krista Klemmer, Weyburn Credit Union VP of Marketing, Tana Torkelson, and Marilyn McCutcheon.

The new Peavey Mart stores will be owned by investment group 2707162 Alberta Ltd., which secured rights in April to the Peavey Mart name from Peavey Industries LP.

The indication is these

At this point there are no specifics about where those Saskatchewan stores might be located or when they might launch. The company says it has a goal of opening a total of seven to 12 locations overall.

Peavey Mart stores had been a familiar sight in numerous Saskatchewan communities, including Regina and Saskatoon, until earlier this year when they announced they would be liquidating all 90

“We’re bringing back the Peavey Mart that people know and love, a Peavey Mart focused on the needs of the farmer, rancher, acreage owner, homeowner and homesteader with a strong emphasis on providing value for dollars spent in our stores,” said Kurt Schultz, lead merchant and a member of the operations leadership team, in a statement.

The newly reorganized company says in a release that customers can expect many of their favourite brands back on store shelves, including Harvest Goodness, Rolling Acres, Scotts, Dickies, Pitt Boss, Shell and others.

Buy Canadian should fund Canadian jobs and news, not U.S. Big Tech

A Message from Canada’s news publishers

To the Government of Canada,

We applaud the Government of Canada’s ambition to build Canada strong, and commitment in the forthcoming Budget to Buy Canadian.

Last year, the federal government including agencies and Crown corporations spent over $100 million on advertising. Most of it went to U.S. Big Tech.1

Why are we funding American tech monopolies that extract tens of billions a year out of Canada -- largely untaxed -- at the expense of local journalism and culture, and whose platforms have become vectors for division and disinformation?

Let’s reinvest our ad dollars in Canada. In Budget 2025, the Government of Canada should follow Ontario’s lead and set aside a minimum of 25% of its advertising budgets for Canadian news media.

At no additional cost to taxpayers, the government can support local jobs while getting its message out in a brand safe environment. Far fewer Canadians trust ads on Facebook and Instagram than those published by Canadian news media. 2

Buying Canadian advertising in Canadian news media is both the right and smart thing to do.

Respectfully, Canada’s news publishers

John Cairns SaskToday.ca

Opinion

FROM THE SIDELINES: Prepping for public pronouncements

Norm Park/SaskToday.ca

Let’s start with a couple of community programs that many have embraced over the years, not only because of their overall programming, but also due to the fact they include and encourage the art of public speaking.

I know the Canadian Air Cadet program involves public speaking. I’m not certain about the other military cadet programs. I’m expecting, though, they too offer some similar programs.

The 4-H program also entails a wonderful public speaking element that has produced some youthful, elegant speech creators and speakers.

Kudos to the programmers who include this skill set.

As for some of us, well, let’s just say, personally speaking, the road has been rocky on occasion — starting with a Grade 3 performance of the poem Winkin’, Blinkin’ and Nod.

I was one of the contestants in an annual Grade 3–4 oratorical contest.

About one-third of the way through my supposedly memorized version of this poem, my mind went blank. There I was on stage at the legion hall, staring out at a crowd of parents, guests and judges. Blank it was for about 15 excruciating seconds before I spotted my teacher, Miss Biggs, attracting my attention and mouthing the next line.

Bingo — I got back on track and finished my first public speaking ordeal. I believe the judges ranked me seventh in a field of five participants.

The next year, my sister represented our household much more positively. She was a middle-years participant in the same contest and claimed the only trophy

of her life (outside of her two kids, of course). I remember her bombastic opening line: “We’ve found the elephant!”

And with that, she went on to describe how early geologists and miners discovered uranium in northern Saskatchewan and how that led to the rapid rise of Uranium City and our northern mining community.

So what about this public speaking game? How can we approach it? Most of us fear the prospect of having to get up in front of the public and do some fancy talking to maintain attention.

Some take it on with aplomb and handle the nervousness well because they become used to it — just like professional athletes, priests and pastors, musicians or vocalists.

So maybe the idea is to start simple, like saying grace at a public dinner or supper.

That can grow into an opportunity to perhaps introduce a main speaker or speakers. In that role, all you require is a couple of bad dad jokes and the ability to pronounce the next speaker’s name and why she or he is there, and what they are supposed to talk about. In other words, you are not the centre of attention.

Later on, you can take on a topic and relate an experience, keeping it short and sweet.

Fledgling public speakers can work on eliminating so-called bridge words we often use too often in presentations. You know, like the phrase “you know.” Or how about the continual throwing out of other words like “well” or “like” or “ummmm” or “right?”

We often don’t realize how frequently we use these tiny phrases that become

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The Weyburn Review

negatives in an overall presentation because of repetition.

I know the Toastmasters Club has some fun concepts that can be used. I have never been a member, but as a reporter in southern Ontario many years ago, I was invited to attend one of their sessions at a nearby RCAF base, where the impromptu challenge for the postluncheon exercise was to pick members from the gathering and have them come to the front and start talking.

Easy enough for Toastmasters, I thought. But then the challenge came.

Who among them could talk for the longest stretch of time without using the word “I”?

It led to a lot of banter and crazy remarks, coming from folks who knew what they were doing on the stage. The exercise led to a lot of laughs. I think the so-called winner managed to pontificate for about two minutes before the inevitable slip-up.

Professional speakers also know when to quit — unlike a certain American president we have come to know all too well.

The pros make their points, bringing out the negatives, the positives, then end with a good catch line or plea or … well, whatever they’re supposed to be bringing to the moment.

It may be a preacher, stand-up comedian, politician or news analyst. The trick is to leave them wanting more, not wish-

ing they had stayed home.

After my Winkin’, Blinkin’ and Nod fiasco, I believe I managed to make amends to some degree, but as a public speaker … well … be kind. Let’s just say the jury is still out.

But I do recall a few instances when I was called upon to issue public statements on an impromptu scale — one of them being a toast to the bride, a woman I had never met!

She was a cousin to the girl I was escorting to the reception, and when she was told that the person who was tagged to give the toast had become unavailable, my date offered me up as the fillin. Why? I’m still not sure. She did have a good sense of humour, though, and laughed later, saying that what the heck — I worked with words, it should have been easy!

I learned the bride’s name, and provided a toast to her. It was the shortest toast to a bride ever given in all of Canada that year. But hey — duty done. We can leave the “I’ve been to the mountaintop” addresses for those who are classically trained to talk about figurative mountains, or real ones. I’m from Saskatchewan. We talk about scaling occasional hills.

Some of us can really dig into a crop report — but only if it’s delivered by somebody who knows something about canola and a little bit about public speaking.

To the Editor,

Across Southeast Saskatchewan, people are telling me the same thing — they don’t feel safe anymore. Crime is up in our towns and cities, and rural crime is on the rise too. Farmers are dealing with stolen tools, fuel theft, and property damage. People are locking their doors in communities where they never had to before.

This isn’t the Canada we grew up in. Before 2015, Canada was one of the safest countries in the world. But the Liberals changed that with Bill C-75, their socalled “bail reform.” It instructs judges to release accused criminals under the “least onerous conditions” possible — meaning the easiest terms they can justify. Even repeat and violent offenders are being put right back on our streets.

Police officers call it what it is — “catch and release.” And it’s destroying confidence in our justice system.

That’s why Conservatives brought for-

ward Bill C-242, the Jail, Not Bail Act. This bill will finally stop the revolving door of repeat offenders. It will make sure violent criminals and career offenders stay behind bars where they belong — protecting our families, our businesses, and our farms.

Law enforcement agrees. Weyburn Police Chief Brent VanDeSype, Estevan Police Chief Jaimie Blunden, and members of the RCMP have all voiced strong support for this bill. They’re the ones on the front lines, and they know what needs to change.

Canadians deserve real consequences for crime — not excuses. It is time to scrap Liberal bail. We had a safe, secure country before 2015, and after the Liberals are gone, we’ll bring that safety back to every community, every main street, and every farmyard in this country.

Hon Steven Bonk, MP ECS Member of Parliament Souris–Moose Mountain

Sports & Leisure

Deana Mainil won three medals, gold, silver and bronze at the Queen City Pickleball Hub held earlier this month.

Pickleball athletes win medals at

Regina tournament

Several Weyburn athletes won medals while attending the Queen City Pickleball Hub in Regina, held October 3 to 5.

Deana Mainil won gold in mixed doubles 4.5, ages 50 and over, with partner Dave Clarke from Regina Beach, a silver in women’s doubles 4.0, ages 45 and over, with sister Angie Chatlain from Saskatoon, and a bronze in women’s singles 4.0 to 4.9, all ages.

Darcy Sidloski and Dwight Achen, both of Weyburn, won bronze

medals in men’s mixed doubles 3.0, age 50 and over, Darcy Sidloski and Carmen Sterling, both of Weyburn, won bronze medals in mixed doubles 3.5, ages 50 and over.

Bob Maurer of Weyburn, with partner Janece Gaudry of Regina, won gold medals in mixed doubles 3.5, ages 50 and over.

Other Weyburn athletes who competed included Brenda Milatz, Janessa Grosenick and Stephanie Schmidt.

Eagles, Elecs raise funds for Salvation Army during Co-op Challenge

The Co-op Challenge between the Weyburn Eagles and the Estevan Elecs senior volleyball teams, kicked off in Weyburn on October 8.

The Co-op Challenge is a spirited and friendly competition between the two cities, bringing together athletic rivalry and community generosity. More than just a match on the court, the event aims to raise funds and awareness for the Salvation Army, supporting local families in need. Fans from both com -

munities come together to cheer on their teams while contributing to a meaningful cause, making the challenge a highlight of the season.

The girls played first, with the Estevan Elecs coming out on top, winning three sets to none, setting the tone for the boy’s game. The WCS boys’ team had some work to do but unfortunately fell in three sets as well, giving the Estevan Elecs a commanding lead for when the series returns to Estevan on Wednesday, October 22.

Para-athlete Shaw honoured by University of Saskatchewan alumni

Calvin Daniels SaskToday.ca

Dr. Keely Shaw is an elite Para athlete who has demonstrated excellence in her academic and athletic pursuits.

Shaw is also a scientist.

That rather unique combination recently led to Shaw being announced as the recipient of a University of Saskatchewan alumni One to Watch Award.

Shaw said the award came as a complete surprise.

“Honestly the first one (reaction) was surprise,” she said in a recent interview.

The “award recognizes a young alumnus/alumna who is making significant personal and professional contributions in society, resulting in a demonstrable betterment of their community, and setting an example for fellow and future alumni to follow,” details alumni.usask.ca

Shaw, who hails from Midale, Sask., said there are so many U of S graduates who contribute so much locally, provincially, nationally and beyond so her thoughts were not on being selected from such a large pool.

As for her own successes,

Shaw said simply “I’ve been very fortunate.”

That is particularly true in regards to her successes as an athlete where she is an award-winning Paralympian and six-time World Championship medallist.

Academically “Shaw is a postdoctoral scholar in the Faculty of Kinesiology and the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary. Her research is at the intersection of kinesiology, nutrition, and agriculture, focusing on exercise physiology and nutrition, particularly examining iron levels in female athletes. She has published more than 20 peer-reviewed papers on this and other topics related to exercise physiology. As a female Paralympic athlete, she brings a unique perspective and understanding to her academic work. Shaw’s research has the potential to have a significant impact on human health, while her resilience, dedication, and commitment to excellence continue to inspire many in both the academic and athletic worlds,” details the alumni page.

While there have been numerous awards – athletic

medals aplenty – Shaw said this one is different.

“It’s kind of unique as a combination of the two, (athletics and academics),” she said, adding it feels like it fully respects both aspects of her life over recent years –which she called “that duality of my life.”

As a Para athlete Shaw said the award is also another chance to champion sport for all.

“I do think this is an amazing opportunity to showcase Para sport,” she said.

Back to the alumni page it explains “Shaw experienced a life-changing horse-riding accident on the family farm at the age of 15 that resulted in partial paralysis on her left side. Prior to the accident, Shaw was a high-level hockey player who aspired to compete in the Olympics; after the accident, she struggled with the realization that her body had changed. Shaw’s Paralympic career began when she was working out at the Physical Activity Complex on the University of Saskatchewan campus and a classmate connected her with a sports scientist, who told Shaw that she would be

a classifiable Para athlete and to “pick a sport.””

Shaw said that is the great thing about Para sport, it is not just about those in wheelchairs, or with artificial limbs – something many immediately assume. She said it is a diverse enough area that it encompasses so many athletes with a broad range of limitations based on varied disabilities.

For Shaw it was Para cycling. She competed at her first National Championship in August 2017 and at her first World Championship in March 2018.

Since then, Shaw has medaled at multiple world competitions, including earning two Paralympic bronze medals at the 2020 Tokyo Games and at the 2024 Paris Games.

Shaw said Para sport is for all, adding it’s a case of “finding that community. Finding what makes you happy.”

That is one thing Shaw said she hopes the award will help convey, adding if one person finds that happiness discovering Para sport after reading about the award it will be huge positive she would be proud of.

Members of the WCS Eagles volleyball teams partnered with Prairie Sky Co-op to donate $1,055 and non-perishable food items to the Weyburn Salvation Army. The Eagles volleyball teams hosted the first half of the annual Co-op Series against Estevan on October 8. Pictured, l-r, Kingston Cox, Isabelle Cugnet, Maya Jordens, Zoe Kerr, Danielle Wahl (Member Relations Manager, Prairie Sky Co-op), Joanne Winters (Weyburn Salvation Army), Cadence Wawro, Katie Swayze, Karis Gerle, Sophie Pollock, and Max Murray.

Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

Book your fall immunization appointment now

Immunization against respiratory illness is a safe and effective way to help stay healthy, prevent illness and save lives. Saskatchewan residents can book appointments to receive this year’s respiratory illness vaccinations. Both Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines will be available at public health clinics, participating local pharmacies and some physician and nurse practitioner offices.

Remind your neighbours to recycle and help preserve our planet’s natural resources.

“As we head into the fall season, getting immunized is one of the best ways we can keep each other safe,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “By protecting yourself, you are also protecting your family, friends, and community from respiratory illness.”

Seniors, people with chronic health conditions or compromised immune systems, children under the age of five and pregnant women are among those considered most at risk of contracting a respiratory illness. Highrisk groups are encour -

aged to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“Enhanced influenza vaccines remain available at no cost to all Saskatchewan residents 65 years and older,” said Cockrill. “I encourage everyone, particularly older adults and those with existing health conditions, to consider immunization as soon as they are eligible.”

Influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations are available, free of charge, to any eligible resident of the province aged six months and older. Children aged six months to five years can only be immunized at a Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) public health clinic, public health office or by a physician or nurse practitioner.

“Getting immunized early this fall is vital to protecting not only yourself, but your loved ones as well,” said SHA Senior Medical Health Officer Dr. Julie Kryzanowski. “We encourage everyone to receive their vaccines

as soon as possible to aid in the fight against respiratory illness.”

Residents will have the convenience to book and receive both their influenza and COVID-19 vaccines either in a single appointment or separately. They may choose to receive one, the other, or both vaccines.

Residents can locate a walk-in clinic or book immunizations for themselves or the entire family in one appointment through the SHA’s online booking tool available at www.4flu.ca at any time or by calling 1-833-7275829 Monday to Friday.

If you have a preferred pharmacy, please contact them to ensure they are offering COVID-19 vaccinations.

All vaccinations are voluntary. For further information on influenza and COVID-19 symptoms and when to seek care, call HealthLine 811 or visit www.4flu.ca.

Let’s keep each other safe and healthy this season.

A collaborative mural was revealed by Weyburn Arts Council members Olha Martiusheva, Regan Lanning and Rini Hoffman during Culturepalooza, held October 4.
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

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