USask medical students training in rural communities
Submitted by
University of Sask.
More than a third of Saskatchewan residents live in a rural or remote community. Some of these individuals can face challenges accessing health care, either through limited resources or long distances to urban care centres.
To help close this gap, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Medicine offers medical students the opportunity to train in communities around the province, outside of the college’s Regina and Saskatoon campuses. These placements give medical students firsthand experience with rural health needs and learn what it’s like to provide care in
these communities.
“When you are a provider in a rural, regional or remote centre, there are unique characteristics of practicing in these places that learners may not experience when they’re training in the urban centres,” said Dr. Tara Lee (MD), associate dean rural medicine, and a family medicine physician in Swift Current.
“All of our communities are very unique, and I think it’s very beneficial for our learners to see how their colleagues live and work in rural communities.”
During their third and fourth year of the medical doctor (MD) program, students participate in clerkship and apply the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to
clinical settings. This phase of training helps them explore various disciplines, identify areas of interest and building the clinical experience needed as they prepare for residency.
Clerkship students rotate through different core specialities such as pediatrics and emergency medicine in multi-week blocks at sites throughout Saskatchewan. Students work under the supervision of experienced physicians as part of the health-care team. The USask medical doctor program requires that all clerkship students spend a minimum of four weeks in service in a rural community.
“Historically, medical students are at our two main campuses. In order
for them to get the experience of what it’s like to live and work in a rural community, they therefore must go out and experience that outside of their urban campuses,” said Lee.
Hands-on training
“We know that students that learn in an environment that provides continuity – especially with relationships with their preceptors – increase their clinical confidence,” said Lee. “Of course, it has to do with the patient that they see over and over again, but it largely has to do with the connection and the relationship they form with their preceptors. It allows the student to try things that they may not have, knowing that they’re in a trusting environment.”
In addition to building clinical confidence, SLIC students are also eager to dive in and immerse themselves in the training. Larger sites have more learners, which means clinical experiences are often shared among the group. Even though students at all sites receive priority one - on - one supervision, the number of learners at these larger centres can create the perception of having to “wait their turn.”
ures, in a smaller, supportive environment.
“They can get those exposures to things that are sometimes very uncommon, even in the city,” said Zerr. “They’ll be planning to do something in the emergency room one day, and something interesting comes in elsewhere in clinic, and a physician is calling them saying ‘come and see this.’”
The Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation received an amazing $100,000 donation from the Graham and Ruby DeLaet Foundation.
Back in 2016, the Graham and Ruby DeLaet Foundation contributed
$30,000 to the Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation (WDHF) as the city moved forward with construction of a new facility.
The Graham and Ruby DeLaet Foundation is focused on improving the health and wellness of chil-
dren, as well as supporting the development of junior golfers at all stages.
The DeLaets created their foundation in 2014.
The new hospital in Weyburn will replace the current 70-year-old facility, and is set to open later this year.
“These students are incredibly hands-on, they have one-on-one preceptorship, and they’re not waiting at the back of the line to experience things or get exposure to things,” said Dr. Geoff Zerr (MD), director of the SLIC program, and a family medicine physician in Melfort. “Students are spending a lot of time getting that direct line to patients and getting their hands involved in cases with procedures or assessments.”
He added that this helps them grow and develop quickly as a physician. Since SLIC learners are often one of only a handful of medical students in the community, they quickly gain experience in a broad range of proced-
Spending nearly a year in one community also allows SLIC students to follow patients over time, which allows them to build trust with patients and provide care over an extended period.
“It’s great for the learners to see how patients are responding to their treatments. If you make a change you get to follow that patient. You get to see them improving in real time,” said Zerr. “You also get to be there for those big moments in people’s lives for better or worse, and you really become empathetic about what they’re going through. You learn how to be better at your job, and you learn a lot more about yourself as a person too, just by being part of that journey.”
A beginner ballet group from De Tricky Feet Dance Studio performed as Pooh Bear and honey pots for ‘The Tummy Song’ during the De Feet Dance Challenge held at the Cugnet Centre on April 18.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
COMMUNITY
Ministerial: Miracle 153 large fish
Submitted by Rev. Doug Loden, Calvary Baptist Community Church.
The gospel of John chapter 21 speaks of the disciples and the miraculous catch a fish. Together, they caught 153 large fish. Simon Peter dragged the net full of fish ashore. In the passage, there is no explanation of the meaning of 153 fish.
Some of the interpretations include, this is an eyewitness report, or God is extremely generous to his people, or blessings come when people follow the guidance of Jesus. I think the meaning of the passage is clarified by the verses before.
On the evening of the resurrection of Jesus, the disciples were terrified. They were behind locked
the doors. They thought that the Jewish leaders would come and kill them, as they did Jesus. Jesus came into the room, spoke to his disciples and said, “Peace be with you,” and their hearts were filled with joy and they were touched with peace. Jesus sent his disciples out to forgive sins. Everyone has sinned before God and everyone is in need of forgiveness. The gospel of John was written that those who believed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God would have life in his name. They would have life, eternal life. John chapter 20 speaks of these three great blessings offered by Jesus, peace, forgiveness and eternal life. An important question is, “Who are these gifts in-
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF THE ASSESSMENT ROLL
R.M. OF TECUMSEH NO.
65
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the RM OF TECUMSEH #65 for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday April 17, 2026 to May 19, 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 TECUMSEH #65. 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 TECUMSEH #65, Box 300, STOUGHTON, SK S0G 4T0, 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 TECUMSEH #65, Box 300, STOUGHTON, SK S0G 4T0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100.00 appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by 4 p.m. May 19, 2026.
Dated this 16 day of April, 2026.
Kellee Slimmon, Assessor
tended for?” Peter and the other disciples caught 153 large fish.
One of the Greek naturalists studied fish. His study indicated that in the world there were 153 types of fish. Symbolically, the disciples were bringing to Jesus all the types of fish in the world. In truth, there are very many more types of fish than this number, but this was ancient thinking.
The disciples were called to bring people to Jesus. Jesus called his disciples and said, “I will make you fishers of men.”
The meaning of the 153 large fish is that God is wanting all sorts of people to come to him. The blessings offered are peace, forgiveness of sin and eternal life. Many people have no interest in in God.
Others think that they cannot be acceptable to God for some reason or other. The intent of this passage is that God wants all sorts of people, all sorts of different people to come to him to receive the great blessings of peace, forgiveness and eternal life.
All of us desire peace, all of need forgiveness and the most precious thing that we can gain is eternal life with God. The meaning of 153 fish, is that Jesus wants you, whoever you are, or whatever you have done, to come to Him and find peace.
Ryan and Rhys glued feathers to egg cartons to create
during the Easter break program at the
Wheatland Centre game results
A number of
and other activities were recently held at the Wheatland Senior Centre.
In Spades on April 6, Terry Bendickson placed
and East of Lang.
first, Sherrill Taylor won second and Marge Schultz finished third.
During Trump Whist on April 6, Marjorie McLeod and Jannette Tonn came in first place, followed by Janet van Winkoop and Gladys Lokken in second.
In Kaiser on April 7, Heather Carter and Jean Fahlman placed first, Jean Knibbs and Rose Levesque took second, and Norma Kapusanick and Melba Bent placed third.
During Canasta on April 8, Eveline Porte won first, followed by Cris Herlick in second, Sheila Wendel in third, Betty Herlick in fourth, Shirley
Hubbs in fifth and Shirley Cherpin in sixth place. In Hi-Low Whist on April 8, Fay Johnson and Marge Schultz took first, Gladys Lokken and Sharon Eggum came in second, and Jean Knibbs and Cris Herlick placed third.
During Thursday Crib on April 9, Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla placed first,
Remind your neighbours to recycle and help preserve our planet’s natural resources.
little chicks
Credit Union Spark Centre.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
808,700 assess., North of Yellow Grass
EDITORIAL
COLUMN: WE NEED MORE SKILLED WORKERS
By Dr. Larry Rosia, President & CEO of Saskatchewan Polytechnic
In every conversation I have with employers – from mining and construction to energy and manufacturing – the message is consistent: ‘We need more skilled workers, and we need them faster.’
Across Canada, hundreds of thousands of tradespeople will retire by 2028. Employers are sounding the alarm. Here in Saskatchewan, we’ll need thousands of new apprentices and journeypersons just to maintain momentum, never mind delivering the ambitious nation-building the federal government envisions.
Canada helps feed the world, powers global industries and anchors the energy and mining future. But even the strongest engine sputters if it runs out of fuel – and right now, our labour force is running dangerously low.
Robust apprenticeships are the immediate answer.
For years, pundits framed polytechnics as one option among many to address our skilled labour crisis. But as
labour needs accelerate, it’s clear that polytechnics are the model best suited for apprenticeship training – structurally, pedagogically and operationally.
Polytechnics know how to prepare learners to succeed on day one of a jobsite; support employers with mentoring and supervision; tie practical experience back to competency-based assessment and ensure workplace learning is structured, monitored and high - quality. Workplace integrated learning (WIL) isn’t an add-on – it’s a defining feature.
It’s time Canadian leaders lean into our polytechnics as the obvious solution. Every year, polytechnics graduate large cohorts in high-demand trades –electricians, HVAC technicians, welders and other critical construction and mechanical trades. But we still remain an overlooked resource.
Globally, apprenticeship systems are modernizing. The UK is shortening minimum durations and allowing more flexible, competency - based training. The U.S. is expanding apprenticeships into clean energy, IT, cybersecurity and advanced manufac-
Progress made on breast cancer diagnostic wait times in province
The Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) are continuing to take action to improve access to breast health services by extending an initiative that allows patients to receive diagnostic procedures at a medical facility in Calgary.
Since the out-of-province initiative launched in November 2023, the number of patients waiting for urgent diagnostic breast biopsies has decreased by more than 87 per cent.
“We are putting patients first by continuing to improve access to breast cancer diagnostics for Saskatchewan women,” said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “We have made significant progress in reducing wait times and increasing capacity here at home with the recruitment of an additional breast radiologist and the opening of the Regina Breast Health Centre. Extending the contract allows us to protect this progress and keep options open for patients to ensure they receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”
The contract with Canadian Surgery Solutions has been extended to March 31, 2027, as a temporary measure to ensure patients continue to have timely access to urgent breast cancer diagnostics while maintaining recent improvements in Saskatchewan’s health system.
As of March 13, 2026, a total of 831 patients have been referred to the Calgary clinic, with approximately 746 having already completed their diagnostic procedures. Up to 1,000 patients are expected to benefit from expedited care through the initiative.
Patients requiring urgent diagnostic procedures, such as mammography or breast biopsies, will continue to be assessed and triaged by health care providers. Those who are eligible and interested in travelling will be offered care in Calgary based on clinical urgency and availability, ensuring those with the most urgent needs receive priority access.
“The Out-of-Province Breast Assessment Program continues to play an important role in ensuring patients receive timely diagnostic care,” said Saskatchewan Health Authority Interim Vice President Clinical and Support Services Richard Dagenais.
This out-of-province initiative remains an option while work is ongoing to build capacity within Saskatchewan. The SHA continues to focus on recruitment and system improvements to deliver more procedures in-province, particularly in Regina.
To learn more about the out-of-province breast cancer diagnostic initiative, visit: saskatchewan.ca/medical-imaging.
turing. These are signals that applying the polytechnic apprenticeship model of training to 21st century professions is both smart and timely.
Apprenticeships require four things – and in Canada, only polytechnics deliver all four. We need to harness this strength, and now:
First, apprenticeships depend on consistent, accredited technical training tied to national and provincial standards. No individual employer can provide that. It requires curriculum oversight, quality assurance and regulated assessment. Saskatchewan Polytechnic, for example, delivers training for 20+ trades across multiple communities in partnership with the provincial apprenticeship authority.
Second, apprenticeships require broad-based learning. Workplaces are essential partners, but no employer can expose apprentices to the full range of equipment, technologies, safety scenarios and practical skills they must master. Polytechnics invest in welding labs, simulation suites, virtual mine environments, robotics facilities and technology-rich workshops – spaces that turn “job experience” into “trade readiness.”
Skills training must also include business skills like financial literacy and marketing – vital skills for apprentices who will one day hang their proverbial shingles in communities across the country.
Third, is alignment with industry – at scale. Industry partnerships are critical. Program advisory-committees, applied research collaborations, co-developed curriculum and constant
employer feedback keep training current and tied to real-world needs and at a scale that union training centres can’t match.
Finally, WIL by design is essential, including teaching models that connect classroom learning, lab practice and real-world application. Learning should flow seamlessly between campus and workplace, exactly what today’s apprenticeship landscape demands.
Polytechnics combine the strengths of employer-led training, union supports and private - sector flexibility – without the limitations of any one model. They bring rigour where workplaces cannot, and scale where unions fall short. And because they serve entire regions, apprenticeships don’t rise and fall with individual employers or sectors.
If Canada wants a modern, productive apprenticeship system capable of producing the skilled tradespeople this critical economic moment demands, it must recognize and invest in the institutions built for the job – and, indeed, already doing the work.
The skilled trades are the backbone of our economy. The institutions that train them are the backbone of the apprenticeship system itself.
If Canada wants to build homes, expand energy production, modernize infrastructure and fuel economic growth, we don’t need to reinvent apprenticeship training; we simply need to invest in the institutions that already deliver it best.
Submitted by Saskatchewan Polytechnic media relations
off 41. Fabric
42. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea
43. Defunct regional economic organization
44. Philly footballers
45. Female sibling 46. Peter Griffin’s daughter 47. Digital audiotape 48. Insecticide
49. Scientific instrument
52. Pages may be dog-__ 55. Israeli city __ Aviv
56. Type of sword
60. Middle Eastern military title
61. Wise individuals
63. French Polynesian island Bora __
64. Popular shoe type
65. One of 50
66. Divulge a secret
67. Dish of cooked meat mixed with potatoes
68. Actress Zellweger
69. Romanian city
CLUES DOWN
1. Greek cupbearer of the Gods
2. Ancient Syrian city
3. Small Eurasian deer (pl.)
4. Range of mountains
5. One thousand cubic feet (abbr.) 6. Spoke 7. City in Georgia 8. Theatrical 9. CNN’s founder 10. Icelandic poems 11. Bjorn __, tennis player 12. Bowfin genus 13. One point north of northeast 21. Political divisions in ancient Greece 23. Electroencephalograph 25. Cool! 26. Male parent 27. Where some gymnasts work 28. Capital of Vietnam 29. Sailboats 32. Shelter (Scottish) 33. Completed 34. Discharge 36. Arrest 37. Partner to cheese
38. Coffee receptacle 40. Stagnate 41. Satisfies
Crossword puzzle answers
43. Snakelike fish
44. Consume food
46. Type of school 47. Erase 49. Inform
50. Girl’s given name
51. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation
52. Every one of two or more things
53. Northern India city
54. Seventeenth stars in a constellation 57. Weapon
58. Amounts of time
59. Isodor __, American Nobel physicist
61. Soviet Socialist Republic 62. Witness
for Veterans Service Club Grant
The application period for the 2026-27 Saskatchewan Veterans Service Club Support Program has opened and runs until May 15, 2026.
Introduced in 201920, the program provides grants up to $30,000 to veterans organizations such as Legion branches, Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) units and more.
The grant is used to support facility upgrades, events and other activities to advance the work and help strengthen the longterm sustainability of veteran service organizations throughout the province.
kitchen renos and upgrade the fire suppression system. In previous years, the Branch received funding for flooring for the lounge and meeting room, LED lighting, painting and new chairs, in addition to minor interior and exterior renovations and a new sign for the facility.
Branch 133 in Stoughton has received more than $ 113,000 in funding through the program since 2019-20.
For 2025-26, grants totaling $1.45 million were provided to 67 Legion branches, ANAVETS units, and other registered, non-profit veterans organizations throughout the province.
Minister Ross was joined in Stoughton by representatives from Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command to see first-hand the improvements at Branch 133 that were funded through the program.
Last year, Branch 133 in Stoughton received more than $27,000 to help with
“On behalf of the branch these renovations have allowed us to put new flooring in our lounge and kitchen and bathrooms,” said Branch 133 Secretary Karen Coderre. “We have also installed a new island in the kitchen, purchased chairs for the lounge and renovated our kitchen cooking area to meet health standards with a new flat grill, new exhaust hood and a fresh air make up unit. Without the help of the service grant we would not have been able to do all these updates.”
More information about the program, guidelines, application and eligibility are available through the Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command at (306) 525-8739 (admin@sasklegion.ca).
SPORTS
Red Wings hope to advance to SJHL finals
The Weyburn Red Wings stayed alive in their playoff series against the Flin Flon Bombers with a convincing 5–1 win Monday night at Whitecap Resources Centre.
Aidan Mohan scored the only goal for Weyburn in the first period at 15:05, assisted by Josh Sale and Will Munro.
In the second period,
the Wings used a two-man advantage to pad their lead with two powerplay goals.
Sale scored the first at 7:52, assisted by Rylan Pearce and Lucas Schmid, followed by a second powerplay goal scored by Jase McNichol at 8:30, assisted by Luke Schraeder and Callas Pierce. Flin Flon potted a late goal with just 11 seconds left in the per-
iod, but that was as close as they’d get.
Sale added a pair of goals in the third to cap off the hat trick. The first was assisted by Turner McIntyre and Pearce at 8:50 and the second empty net goal was assisted by Ryder Rommelaere at 15:59.
Joey Rocha was sharp in goal, turning aside 31 of 32 shots, including a penalty
shot early in the game that helped set the tone.
Flin Flon won a convincing game five by a score of 5-1 on April 11.
The Bombers set the tone early with a powerplay goal and an unassisted goal in the first period and then extended the lead with a third goal at 16:05 of the second period.
Weyburn showed a brief
spark when Jonah Bierd scored on a powerplay with just one second left in the second period, but that was as close as the Red Wings would come.
In the third period, Flin Flon scored at 10:44 and an empty netter at 15:36 to seal the game.
Rocha was in net for the Wings, stopping 25 out of 29 shots on net.
The Red Wings won game four by a score of 5-2 at Whitecap Resources Centre on April 8.
There was no scoring in the first period, on 12 attempts by the Bombers and eight attempts by the Wings.
The Bombers got on the scoreboard first with a goal at 7:33 of the second period. Josh Sale tied up the game for Weyburn at 10:41 in the second period, assisted by Simon Martin and Luke Schraeder.
Weyburn had a very strong third period with four straight goals before Flin Flon added a late goal. Callas Pierce scored at 5:32, assisted by Rylan Pearce and Drew Molde. Lucas Schmid scored at 10:44, assisted by Turner McIntyre and Sale, fol -
lowed by Pearce scoring a powerplay goal at 13:04, assisted by Schmid and Sale. After the Flin Flon goaltender was pulled for extra manpower, Sale had an unassisted goal into the empty net for Weyburn at 17:19. The Bombers scored their second goal of the game at 17:57. Rocha was in net for the Wings, stopping 39 out of 41 shots.
The Bombers won 2-1 in game three, held at Whitecap Resources Centre on April 7.
Flin Flon scored a powerplay goal at 17:41 of the first period and added a second goal at 9:27 of the second period.
The lone Weyburn goal was scored by Aidan Mohan at 19:17 of the third period, assisted by Schmid and Pearce.
Rocha was in net for the Wings, stopping 23 out of 25 shots.
Game seven of the semi-final series will be held at the Whitney Forum in Flin Flon tonight, April 15, where Flin Flon will attempt to reach the SJHL finals for the fourth time in five years.
Nikolejsin rink finishes eighth at Masters Championship
Dave Thomas SaskToday.ca
Weyburn’s Jim Nikolejsin will be coming home with an eighth place finish in the men’s draw at the Canadian Masters Curling Championship, held April 6-11 in Grande Prairie Curling Centre, Alberta.
Nikolejsin and his rink of third Jaime Miller, second Ray Calbow and lead Darcy Cretin began their week by posting a 2-3 record in Pool B, picking up a win in their final round robin game to finish fourth and advance to the championship pool.
There, Saskatchewan picked up one more win in four games, finishing 3-6 overall.
Game Results
Saskatchewan kept their playoff hopes alive when they faced Northern Ontario’s Team Gordon and claimed a 7-5 victory on April 10. Nikolejsin picked up single points the first two ends in that contest and gave up a pair in the third before the teams exchanged single points for a 3-3 tie heading into the break. Saskatchewan took control of things with three in the sixth, and after Gordon picked up a deuce in the seventh, Nikolejsin finished things off with a single point in the eighth.
It was a tougher showing in Saskatchewan’s second
game of the day against Prince Edward Island’s Team MacAulay. Nikolejsin held a 2-1 lead through three ends when things started to turn MacAulay’s way, as they scored two in the fifth, held Saskatchewan to one in the sixth, added another deuce in the seventh and then stole two in the eighth to wrap up the win.
The Saskatchewan rink dropped a 6-3 decision to Nova Scotia’s Team Robinson.
Things were close early, as the teams exchanged single points the first two ends and Nikolejsin stole one in the fourth for a 2-1 lead. Robinson took over from there, scoring two in the fifth and stealing three in the sixth to go ahead 6-2. Nikolejsin got one back in the seventh but could get no closer.
Nikolejsin closes out his Canadian Masters appearance with a 3-6 record.
The Nikolejsin rink picked up their biggest win of the tournament on April 9, rolling to a 9-2 victory over New Brunswick’s Team Stewart in their final preliminary round game to advance to the championship pool.
New Brunswick had a 2-1 lead after the first two ends, but Nikolejsin came all the way back and then some with four in the fourth. Stewart opted to blank the
fifth, but Saskatchewan stole another four in the sixth, and the teams shook hands.
Unfortunately for Nikolejsin, things didn’t go as well in their first championship pool contest as they fell 8-5 to Ontario’s Team Cochrane.
Saskatchewan got off to a good start in that one, as after the teams exchanged forces, Nikolejsin picked up one in the third and another two in the fourth for a 4-1 edge. Ontario took control of things with five in the fifth, though, and after holding Saskatchewan to one in the sixth, added another deuce in the seventh and ran Nikolejsin out of rocks in the final end for the win.
The Saskatchewan rink picked up their first win the the men’s draw on April 8, defeating Newfoundland’s Team Matthews 7-5 in the morning before dropping a 6-2 decision to Manitoba’s Team Neufeld in the evening.
Things were close in the early going against Matthews, as Newfoundland held a 2-1 lead heading into the fifth end break. Nikolejsin appeared to take control of things with three in the sixth and a steal in the seventh for a 5-2 edge, but Matthews would come all the way back to tie things up in the eighth. Saskatchewan put the hammer to perfect use in
the final end, though, scoring a pair for the win.
The evening draw saw Manitoba get off to a fast start with single points in each of the first four ends. Saskatchewan got back within striking distance with a pair in the fifth, but those would be the only points they’d put on the board, as Neufeld blanked the sixth, scored two more in the seventh and ran Nikolejsin out of rocks in the eighth.
Nikolejsin came up empty on Day 1 of the tournament on April 7, dropping decisions to British Columbia and Alberta. In their opener game, the rink fell 4-2 to B.C.
After B.C. was held to one in the first, they stole singles in the third and fourth ends to take a 3-0 lead at the halfway mark.
Nikolejsin got on the board with one in the fifth, but B.C. answered with a single in the sixth to restore its three-point cushion. Saskatchewan managed one in the seventh, but B.C. closed it out with a steal in the eighth.
The evening draw against Alberta proved equally challenging. Alberta jumped out to a huge lead with five in the opening end, but Nikolejsin responded immediately with four in the second before stealing one in the third to tie
the game 5-5.
Alberta regained the lead with one in the fourth, and the teams exchanged singles in the fifth and sixth ends.
The game slipped away late, however, as Alberta stole one in the seventh and two more in the eighth to hand Nikolejsin an 8-4 loss.
Weyburn Red Wings forward Callas Pierce, right, battled the Flin Flon defense during game six of the semi-final series, held at Whitecap Resources Centre Monday night.
Weyburn’s Jim Nikolejsin finished in eighth place in the men’s draw at the Canadian Masters Curling Championship, April 6-11 at the Grande Prairie Curling Centre. The Nikolejsin rink included third Jaime Miller, second Ray Calbow and lead Darcy Cretin.
Photo courtesy of Deanna Pierce-Colbow
Photo by Kim Wilkes
SaskPower sheds light on timeline, cost for coal life extension
SaskToday staff
SaskPower says the process of extending the life of its coal-fired generating stations will be lengthy and costly, but still less than building new plants to meet incoming federal regulations.
In a submission to the Saskatchewan Rate Review Panel, the Crown corporation said it is embarking on a life extension of the coal-fired generation facilities for 25 years.
According to SaskPower, the assessment is complete for Estevan’s Boundary Dam Power Station Unit 6 (BD6) and Unit 0. An assessment for Coronach’s Poplar River Power Station Units 2 (PR2) and 0 at Poplar River Power Station near Coronach is 60 per cent finished and scheduled to wrap up in April, while the assessment for Unit 1 at Poplar River is at 15 per cent and slated to be done in September.
As for the other units, SaskPower says the assessment for Shand is at five per cent complete and is to wrap up in December, while units 3-5 at Boundary Dam have not started and are to wrap up in April 2027. Order-of-magnitude estimates were developed in January 2025, drawing on data from BD3 and PR1 life extensions, completed in 2014 and 2008, respectively.
BD0 and PR0 refer to the common systems for the power stations. These are the parts of the facility that support the operation of all the units.
SaskPower reports the BD6 life extension and unit
rebuild are scheduled for 2028-30, followed by PR2 (2031), Shand (2032), PR1 (2033), BD3 (2034), BD5 (Phase 1 in late 2027 and early 2028, and Phase 2 in 2035) and BD4 (2035).
“Some life extension work is being advanced and/or staged outside of these dates to ensure unit reliability, optimize construction, and manage execution risks,” SaskPower said.
Since BD3 was redesigned in 2013-14, SaskPower said there will be less work required than the other units, but there will still likely be partial replacement of some of the equipment.
SaskPower noted that based on the direction to extend the life of coal rather than follow the Clean Electricity Regulations, the Crown corporation has reduced projected capital expenditures by more than $21 billion to 2050.
“This was achieved by avoiding the construction of new natural gas generation power plants equipped with carbon capture, and avoiding the construction of new transmission and distribution infrastructure associated with additional renewable generation,” SaskPower wrote.
“External consultants have estimated the cost of refurbishing SaskPower’s 1,500 megawatts of existing coal facilities at $2.6 billion, while the cost of a new 370-megawatt combined cycle gas-generating plant is currently $1.7 billion.”
The projected cost for each plant is BD3 ($228 million), BD4 ($501 million), BD5 ($189 million), BD6 ($327 million), Shand
($346 million), PR1 ($356 million) and PR2 ($336 million).
Also, there is a $254 million price tag for the CCS facility, $56 million for BD0 and $38 million for PR0.
“The decision to extend the life of existing coalfired generation assets was not driven by a determination that coal life extension represents the lowest-cost generation option. Rather, the decision reflects a strategic policy choice grounded in the principles of energy security, system reliability, affordability and the need to ensure sufficient electricity supply to support economic growth in Saskatchewan,” SaskPower said.
“The provincial Energy Security Strategy sought to strengthen and expand the reliability and capacity of Saskatchewan’s electricity system through a diversified, all-of-the-above approach to generation investment.”
Saskatchewan’s electricity system faces unique structural and transitional challenges, including limited legacy hydro resources, increasing demand associated with economic development, and the requirement to maintain reliability while transitioning to a loweremissions grid, the Crown corporation said.
“In this context, coal life extension provides dependable baseload capacity that supports system adequacy, operational flexibility, and diversity of supply, while reducing exposure to fuel, technology and supplychain risks during a period of significant change.”
New uranium mines will power economic growth in province
With two new mines advancing toward construction after receiving federal approval, Saskatchewan’s growing uranium sector is creating new jobs and economic opportunities for northern Saskatchewan.
Denison Mines Corp.’s (Denison) was approved to construct its Wheeler River Project on February 19 by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). NexGen Energy Ltd. (NexGen) received CNSC approval to build its Rook I Project on March 5. These are the first Canadian uranium mines to be approved for construction since 2004.
“The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to see Denison and NexGen reach this significant stage with their projects,” said Energy and Resources Minister Chris Beaudry. “At each step of the approval process, these
companies have advanced their projects responsibly by building relationships with local communities and through their commitment to environmental stewardship. Wheeler River and Rook I will provide generational economic opportunities for Saskatchewan people, particularly the Indigenous and Métis communities in the north, and strengthen our position in becoming the world leader in uranium production.”
“Well over a decade ago, we made a strategic decision to exit our international operations and to make significant long-term investments in the uranium mining sector in northern Saskatchewan,” said Denison President and CEO David Cates. “Today, we have a diverse portfolio of projects including our flagship Wheeler River project – which consists of the Phoenix In-Situ Recovery
(ISR) uranium mine, and a potential future underground mine at the nearby Gryphon deposit. Phoenix will be the first ISR uranium mine to be built in Canada and reflects the best of Canadian mining ingenuity and determination.
“Further to this, I am pleased to announce that site preparation and initial construction activities have already commenced at Phoenix, and that we are preparing to transition into full-scale construction. The support and encouragement of the Saskatchewan government have meaningfully contributed to the successful advancement of the project – providing us with a rigorous and stable regulatory environment that results in the predictability and confidence needed for a largescale investment like a
new mine.”
“Our final approval of the Rook I Project on March 5, 2026, represents the beginning of construction of this generational project, which the NexGen team have been preparing for since the Arrow discovery 12 years ago,” said NexGen Founder and CEO Leigh Curyer. “As a world-class project in a leading mining jurisdiction, Rook I will create opportunities in employment, local procurement, and community infrastructure, while generating an initial estimated $32.5 billion in total economic impact for Saskatchewan over its construction and initial operations phases. This will mean generational careers and investments available for infrastructure in the North and across the province.”
“In collaboration with
our Indigenous Nation partners and with the support of Premier Scott Moe and the Government of Saskatchewan, together we are transitioning mining into a new era. Backed by our team’s proven capability and focus, NexGen is ready to successfully deliver this project for the benefit of all Saskatchewan residents. We thank Premier Moe and this Saskatchewan Government for its steadfast support of the project and commend its vision for a strong, prosperous future for Saskatchewan.”
Both Wheeler River and Rook I are located in northern Saskatchewan’s Athabasca Basin, which holds the world’s largest high grade uranium reserves. Combined, the projects will create over 1,600 jobs during construction, employ over 700 people during
operation, and represent a total estimated investment of $2.8 billion.
Demand for Saskatchewan’s responsibly produced uranium continues to increase as Canada and its allies around the world look for stable and reliable sources of low-emissions energy. With a strong regulatory framework, the world’s richest uranium reserves, and strong exploration incentive programs, Saskatchewan can meet this demand now and into the future.
Saskatchewan’s existing uranium sector is responsible for over 3,300 jobs including direct employees and contractors. The uranium industry is a major employer of northern and Indigenous workers, with 43 per cent of mine site workers being residents of Saskatchewan’s north.
Torrent Energy Services is the sponsor for Toque, the opening band for the Young Fellows Club of Weyburn’s Kick Off to Summer Concert on June 25. Pictured, l-r, Young Fellow members Mason Richaud, Reed Anderson, Rob Stephanson Jr., Torrent Energy staff Jordan Cote, Brandon Cote and Courtney Cote, Young Fellow members Chad Knoll, Duane Walkeden and Ross Weiss. Photo submitted
Attendee registration opens for Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show
Submitted
The Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show announced that attendee registration is now officially open for the 2026 event on June 2 to 4 in Weyburn.
This year’s show promises three days of industry celebration, innovation, and community, featuring a strong lineup of speakers, signature events and awards that highlight the achievements of Saskatch-
ewan’s energy sector.
General admission is $20, and attendees can conveniently purchase luncheon and supper tickets during registration.
The Show will welcome three engaging voices who bring insight, leadership and humour:
• Quick Dick McDick, a Canadian farmer, and comedian joins the Show on Wednesday, June 3 after the awards ceremony
Swing for Scholarships set for September 18
Submitted
Save the date! Planning for the 2026 Swing for Scholarships golf tournament is underway, with this year’s fundraiser scheduled for September 18 at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Club in Estevan.
In combination with matching funds through the Ministry of Advanced Education’s Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship program, the event has generated over $109,000 for student scholarships in the last five years.
“Proceeds from this event have proven invaluable to our students since the tournament’s inception, and we are extremely grateful for the community support we have received over the years that has al-
lowed Swing for Scholarships to remain viable,” said College President and CEO Jody Holzmiller.
The first Swing for Scholarships tournament was held in 1999. Since inception, the tournament has been held at different courses throughout the college region with a variety of themes that make for a day filled with fun, golf, camaraderie and networking. The City of Estevan team has carded the lowest score in each of the last three events.
Registration and sponsorship opportunities will soon be available on the website.
Southeast College is proud to offer innovative and flexible programming that encourages students to learn where they live.
around 8:30 p.m.
• Jeremy Evans “The Grizzly Dude”, a survivor, storyteller and a speaker who transforms adversity into inspiration will headline the Safety Stand Down Breakfast on June 4 at 8 a.m.
• W.Brett Wilson, a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist and former star of Dragon’s Den appear during the Industry Luncheon on June 4.
Event Schedule:
Tuesday, June 2
7 p.m. - Kick-Off Supper, sponsored by Gilliss Casing Services will feature a steak or lobster entrée. Tickets are $75 + taxes. Wednesday, June 3
9:45 a.m. - Chain Cutting Ceremony in front of Whitecap Resources Centre
10: a.m. - Show Opens
12 noon - awards luncheon sponsored by Stampede Drilling. One of the Show’s cornerstone celebrations as we honor the Saskatchewan Hall of Fame and Southeast Saskatchewan Legend inductees. Tickets are $50 + taxes.
5:30 p.m. - Show Closes
6:30 p.m. - Awards Supper sponsored by First Line Pressure Works will feature prime rib entrée. Tickets are $75 + taxes. The evening will recognize outstanding contributions through the
presentations of the:
• Saskatchewan Oil Person of the Year
• ‘Laurence M. Woodard’ Southeast Saskatchewan Oil Person of the Year
• Southeast Saskatchewan Keystone Award
• ‘Ron Jeffery’ Friend of the Show Award
Following the awards, Quick Dick McDick will take the stage at approximately 8:30 p.m.
Thursday, June 4
7:30 a.m. - Safety Stand Down Breakfast. This is a complimentary event but requires advance registration.
9 a.m. - Show Opens
12 p.m. - Industry
Luncheon, sponsored by IntelliDrill Solutions. Tickets are $50 + taxes
3 p.m. - Show Closes Attendees can now register for admission, and meals through the official Saskatchewan Oil & Gas Show registration portal. Early registration is encouraged, as several events reach capacity quickly. The 2026 Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show is held biennially at the Weyburn Exhibition Grounds, including Whitecap Resources Centre, and Tom Zandee Sports Arena. All meals are served buffet style inside Exhibition Hall.
The Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show will be held in Weyburn from June 2 to 4.
University of Regina exports carbon capture technology
A new international collaboration between the University of Regina and the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) is helping to advance Thailand’s energy transition to lower-carbon emissions using U of Rdesigned technology.
Cement production is
responsible for roughly seven per cent of global CO emissions, making it one of the largest industrial sources of CO worldwide—and one of the most challenging industrial sectors to decarbonize.
According to a release from the University of Regina, under a decarbonization of cement and concrete
initiative in Thailand, and funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) commissioned researchers at the University’s Clean Energy Technologies Research Institute (CETRI) to design and build a carbon capture pilot unit.
The unit is being prepared for shipment to Thailand in early April, where it will be used in collaboration with TCMA to demonstrate carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology in real-world conditions, and to help support emissions reduction efforts in Thailand’s cement sector, which is working toward net zero emissions by 2050.
This project marks a key milestone in a growing partnership focused on low-carbon innovation, states the release.
Dr. Hussameldin Ibrahim, director of CETRI, said his centre was selected by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization
to carry out this project in recognition of CETRI’s long-standing expertise in developing advanced carbon capture technologies.
“This project will support the decarbonization of Thailand’s cement sector and demonstrates how research at the University of Regina is delivering realworld climate solutions with global impact,” said Ibrahim.
A memorandum of understanding signed last fall between the Government of Saskatchewan and the TCMA, led by Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding, commits both parties to strengthening technical expertise, capacity building, and knowledge sharing,
with a particular focus on the energy sector and lowcarbon technologies.
“This project reflects the strength of our international collaborations in addressing the global challenge of energy transitions,” says Dr. Jeff Keshen, University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor. “It also highlights the University of Regina’s expertise in developing practical, exportable, clean energy solutions that benefit not only Saskatchewan, but the world.”
Keshen recently met with TCMA representatives in Thailand where the project was highlighted as an example of successful international research and innovation collaboration.
As road bans continue, activity remains quiet in the oilfields in southeastern Saskatchewan.
SaskToday
Photo courtesy of Bill Allen Photography
Battle of Vimy Ridge to be commemorated in Estevan April 18
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The South East Military Museum and the Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion are once again going to mark the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
Museum founder Craig Bird will host his Vimy Remembered presentation April 18 at the Estevan legion. A two-hour interactive presentation will begin at 10 a.m. Lunch will be served at the branch, and then there will be a brief ceremony at Estevan’s cenotaph. Bird will lay a wreath to honour all those from the Estevan area who died while serving their country in the First World War.
Bird said his address is going to be Part 3 of his map presentation.
“It just dives a little bit more into the Vimy experience, some of the offshoots of Vimy and what had occurred,” said Bird.
He said he has received a lot of positive feedback about the interactive nature of the presentations and the use of the Vimy map.
The presentation in Estevan is for the public to attend. Area cadets will be among those present. Bird hopes to see people come out and learn a little bit about
Vimy history.
The legion branch will have its annual Vimy Night supper and awards program April 18 at the legion hall. Bird hopes people will attend and show support for the legion.
Bird also held a Vimy Remembered presentation April 11 in Saskatoon. It was the second time he has brought Vimy Remembered to Saskatoon. The Saskatoon speech, which attracted cadets from northern Saskatchewan and members of the public, was similar to the one he did last year in Estevan.
“One of the reasons that we’re doing it up in Saskatoon now is because of the positive feedback [from Estevan],” said Bird. Approximately 250 people attend the presentations between Estevan and Saskatoon, he said.
The Battle of Vimy Ridge took place from April 9-12, 1917, in northern France. For the first time, all four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together in a co-ordinated attack, capturing a strategic position from the Germans after the French and British forces had failed. Nearly 3,600 Canadian soldiers were killed and more than 7,000 were injured.
75-year-old wins award at tournament
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Ron Robb is not only the winning of the Frank John Oldest Player Award at this year’s Estevan Strippers Molson Spring Bust Tournament, he’s also one of the most familiar faces.
Robb, a forward with the Fort Qu’Appelle Combines, who compete in the over-45 division, was recognized for his longevity and love of the game dur-
ing a presentation at the tournament, which is the largest recreation hockey competition in the province with 38 teams. Robb received a special Strippers’ jersey.
According to the Strippers, Robb has played in the tournament 39 times in its 42-year history. A player can only win the oldest player award once.
The honour is named after John, a long-time member of the Strippers who spent more than seven decades playing hockey. He won the tournament’s oldest player award in 1992 in the second year the distinction was presented.
Ron Robb sports his new Estevan Strippers’ jersey.
The Bienfait Swimming Pool is the latest organization to benefit from the Richardson Foundation. Pictured, l-r, Kingston Midstream representative Dena Bachorcik, Bienfait Mayor Ken Bonokoski, Kingston representatives Mike Grobbink, Michael Hengen, Tundra Oil & Gas representative Jonathan Kowal, Bienfait recreation director Sarah Yoner, Bienfait Pool president Taybrey Horton, and Tundra Oil & Gas representative Ed McMillian.
Richardson Foundation donates $50,000 to help with upgrades to Bienfait’s pool
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The Bienfait Swimming Pool is the latest organization to benefit from support from the Richardson Foundation.
Total support was $50,000, as representatives from Kingston Midstream and Tundra Oil & Gas each presented cheques for $25,000 recently to help with maintenance at the recreation facility.
“For over a decade, our pool has been a vital part of the community, providing a safe, welcoming
space for families, children and visitors,” the Bienfait swimming pool said in a Facebook post. “These upcoming repairs are essential to maintaining the pool’s structure and ensuring it can continue serving our community for years to come.”
Recreation director Sarah Yoner said she hopes the pool can be open in June.
“We’re hoping that these repairs come in the fall of this year, and if anything ... needs to be finished, it would come next spring,” she said.
Total cost of the up -
grades is more than $160,000. The biggest expense is a PVC membrane replacement that she said comes with a $122,500 price tag, while wall panel repairs will cost $26,800. A controller will be $11,538. The Bienfait Swimming Pool has approached other donors for support.
“We are asking the community for financial support. If any businesses or any donors want to be part of this project, we would be more than happy to give that recognition where it’s deserved,” she said.
Dena Bachorcik, the the public awareness and community investment co-ordinator for Kingston Midstream, said the companies are proud to support upgrades to the Bienfait Swimming Pool to help maintain the facility.
“Our combined $50,000 contribution ($25,000 each) will help fund vital repairs, including a new liner and wall panel work, extending the life of the facility and supporting ongoing swim lessons, public swims, and other community programs,” she said.
Estevan council approves use of curling club
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The Estevan Exhibition Association will be able to use the Power Dodge Curling Centre rent-free for an agriculture pavilion during the upcoming Energy City Ex.
President Crystal Ross and second vice-president Christa Kurtz appeared before Estevan city council during the April 7 meeting to ask for $5,000 in support and promote the pavilion, which will be open from June 11-14. Ross noted the pavilion has grown considerably since it was introduced for the Energy City Ex in 2024.
Kurtz added the pavilion is used to showcase agriculture in Saskatchewan to students and the community. She added the first day has an emphasis on safety and the second is used for school tours, with hundreds of students
attending each day.
The exhibition started the pavilion to teach students about where their food comes from, but Kurtz said it’s about more than just students. New Canadians have also visited to learn about the Canadian agriculture sector.
The first two years of the pavilion were in the Wylie-Mitchell, but Ross and Kurz noted space was tight and the curling club has much more room.
Council approved a motion to allow the EEA to use the curling club free of charge, which would have amounted to $6,240, but if association uses drapes, the stage or podium, there would be a charge.
Councillor Dave Elliott, who was the lone member of council to vote against the motion, said council has had a number of groups ask for free rentals, but council has said
no. He was willing to grant the EEA free use for the first two days.
Métis Nation request
Council expressed support for a request from the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan to have a housing development in Estevan.
Land development services manager Richard Neufeld said the application to Build Canada Homes is still in its initial stages, and the Métis Nation is not asking for any incentives at this time.
“Though the focus for occupants of their homes is people of Métis heritage, the completed buildings would be available to others as well,” he said.
Council will also asked the community economic development officer to create a letter supporting the request.
Garding Lard request
Council also approved a crouple of requests regarding land at a 44.1-acre
parcel near Howard Street in southeast Estevan.
Neufeld noted the property has a significant amount of equipment left from a previous leaseholder. The city is working with contractors to remove the equipment in early spring.
A 1.24-acre parcel will be sold to a company using part of the parcel since before 2009.
Another local company is looking to lease a 1.98-acre area for aggregate storage purposes.
The sale price is $25,000 per acre, Neufeld said, while the lease rate is $1,130 per acre a year.
Councillor Brian Johnson voiced concern with the state of one of the properties and wants to see it properly maintained. Neufeld replied some materials have been there multiple decades. Anything salvageable will be hauled away for metal recycling.
Photo submitted
Estevan-born goalie wins national NCAA title with Denver
Randy Palmer SaskToday.ca
A hockey player with connections to Estevan helped the University of Denver Pioneers capture the NCAA Division 1 men’s hockey national championship.
Goaltender Paxton Geisel, who was born in Estevan but has played developmental hockey in the U.S. for years, saw action in six games this season with the Pioneers and posted a 2.60 goals against average and .909 save percentage.
Geisel played behind freshman sensation Johnny Hicks, who was named the Frozen Four MVP after his stellar performances in both games.
Denver defeated Wisconsin 2-1 in the national title game April 11 in Las Vegas.
Also on the team were defenceman Boston Buckberger, a third-year player who served as an assistant captain with the Pioneers this season, and freshman Clarke Caswell, who emerged as a key performer after a stellar WHL career with the Swift Current Broncos.
For Buckberger, it’s his second NCAA title with Denver after first winning in 2024, and it’s safe to say he had a major impact in the victory.
The former Saskatoon Blazers standout capped off a series of chances in the Wisconsin zone by getting off a one-timer from the point on a pass from Garrett Brown, and Kyle Chyzowski would get the tip in front for the gamewinning goal with 6:52 remaining in the third period.
It was a fortuitous turn of events for Buckberger and the Pioneers, especially after there was some question whether or not he’d even suit up in the final after suffering a nasty gash to his pinky finger during the double overtime semifinal win over Michigan.
“Pretty scary,” Buckberger told Joe Smith from The Athletic, “but what I was thinking was ‘I don’t want to go down for my teammates.”
Instead, he’d have the finger numbed, wrap it tightly in black tape, and go on to set up one of the biggest goals in recent Pi-
oneers history.
All told, Buckberger finished the 2025-26 NCAA campaign with 10 goals and 29 assists across 43 games.
Buckberger was part of the Brooks Bandits team that won a Centennial Cup national junior A hockey
championship in Estevan in 2022.
While Caswell didn’t have any points in the final, he was a crucial contributor to fourth-seed Denver’s upset 5-4 win over top-seed Michigan in the semifinal. The former Swift Current captain drew
an assist on Cale Ashcroft’s goal in the second period and then scored the game-tying goal with 2:46 remaining in the third, eventually sending the game to overtime.
All told, the former 80-point WHLer had a stellar freshman season,
putting up eight goals and 34 points in 42 games.
The Land of the Living Skies connection continues with assistant coach Tavis McMillan, who played 10 games with the SJHL’s Weyburn Red Wings during the 1989-90 season and was a point-a-game player.
Adam Growe eager to bring laughs, Quiz Show to Estevan
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Fans of Canada’s Cash Cab television series who live in the Estevan area will soon have the chance to interact with the show’s star.
Adam Growe, the comedian and radio personality who hosted Cash Cab for all eight of its seasons, and now appears on the Cash Cab Music program, will be at Estevan’s Orpheum Theatre on April 17. The show will start at 9 p.m. In an interview with
SaskToday, Growe said he hasn’t been to Estevan before and is looking forward to meeting the people of the community. He is also eager to perform in the 112-year-old Orpheum.
“It’s one of the iconic locations for arts and culture, gathering and community building in Estevan and surrounding area,” said Growe.
When owners Alan and Jocelyn Dougherty reached out to him about a performance, Growe said
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF THE ASSESSMENT ROLL
R.M. OF BENSON NO. 35
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Benson No. 35 for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., on the following days: Monday to Friday, April 17,2026, to May 19, 2026, excluding holidays.
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the R.M. of Benson No.35, Box 69, Benson, SK S0C 0L0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $50 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with The Secretary of the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 19th day of May, 2026.
Dated this 15th day of April, 2026.
Chantel Walsh Assessor
he jumped at the chance.
“They’re a lovely family operation,” Growe said. “I love movies. I love arts and culture. I love bringing people together, especially for comedy and for shows. My quiz show is a really unique, hilarious and engaging opportunity to bring people from Estevan and the surrounding area together for a night of fun.”
Many of his appearances are for corporate engagements, conferences or awards nights, he said. Since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, he has been doing more public shows in different parts of the country, including places he hadn’t visited previously.
“To come to a community like Estevan is just really interesting, and it was the right time for me to be really warm to the idea and to the vibe and the energy that the Orpheum brought,” he said.
He recalled that when he was in broadcasting school, he was told he would have to pay his dues and he might wind up in a small city like Estevan.
“I just love that I’m coming to Estevan at this point in my career, and we’re all excited. Not that I wouldn’t have been excited for my first job in radio. I absolutely would have loved it,” he said.
The Adam Growe Quiz
Show will have trivia questions for cash prizes, just like the Cash Cab series, and he’ll also have fun with people, like he did in the series. Stand-up comedy will also be part of the show.
“I bring up volunteers from the audience who want to be contestants in my quiz show, and I play multiple quiz games throughout the show. It’s not like playing Trivial Pursuit on stage. It’s not a pub trivia night. It’s very much a comedy show with lots of fun.”
As part of the game, contestants might have to do some fun things to prove they know the answer, like dance, create a pose or cite a movie quote.
People can use a web app on their phone to vote on the category of trivia for the contestants, he said, and he has trivia questions people can play on their phone before the show for the chance to win prizes.
After the show, he has more opportunities for rapid-fire trivia questions.
Cash Cab was on the air from 2008 to 2015, and since then, episodes have remained on the air through syndication. Earlier this year, it started streaming on Crave.
“People kept on seeing the show, so when I was getting booked for private corporate events or comedy clubs or theatre events,
there was still a recognition factor that people felt as if they were still making the show,” he said.
Two years ago, Cash Cab Music debuted with music questions. Instead of the video bonus finale, a double-or-nothing karaoke segment was introduced. This season marks a return to general knowledge for the series, but karaoke still finishes contestants’
“People love singing for money,” Growe said.
Sometimes he receives surprising answers to questions. He finds it equally enjoyable when the contestants in the cab seemingly don’t know the answer but pull out a random, accurate guess.
Even when the show first debuted in Canada and nobody knew what it was, Growe said most who entered the cab remained because he assured passengers they were safe and they could win money.
“Of the small portion of people that were reluctant, I was able to convince most of them to play, and they were grateful. But there was a handful that weren’t prepared to do it.”
As the series went along, Growe said people were more likely to know what was happening when the cab’s lighting triggered.
“The dynamic of the show is very much a group
effort, and that’s the vibe people love about it,” he said.
He believes people love Cash Cab because regardless of where they live in the country, they see themselves in the contestants – personalities just like their own, their co-workers or people they grew up with.
“That’s the kind of Canadian sentiment and vibe that is captured in a game show ... but it’s also a really good reflection of the joy, of fun, that is Canada. So I always like to mention that, because as much fun as it looks, that’s how much fun we’re all having when we make the show.
Tickets are still available. They can be purchased at Henders Drugs and the Orpheum Theatre, or through the theatre’s website. A cash bar will also be part of the event.
The University of Denver Pioneers gather for the traditional team photo after winning the NCAA men’s hockey championship on April 11.
Photo courtesy of University of Denver
ADAM GROWE Photo courtesy of Adam Growe
Matiusheva’s ‘Gossy Wisteria’
Province announces Next Gen agriculture mentorship program
The Saskatchewan Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program announced the mentor - mentee pairings for cohort seven in Regina.
This 18-month program provides emerging agricultural leaders with hands-on leadership development and opportunities to participate
in decision-making that shapes the future of Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry.
“Programs like this are crucial in supporting the next generation and helping build a bright future for Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector,” said Federal
THE LANG WEST CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT AREA AUTHORITY ASSESSMENT ROLL 2026
Notice is hereby given that the assessment of the Lang West Conservation and Development area authority has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Secretary-Treasurer, until the time for giving notice of complaints has expired, from ten o’clock in the forenoon until four o’clock in the afternoon on every juridical day except Saturday.
A person who desires to complain against an assessment or non-assessment may, within twenty days after the date of this notice, notify the Secretary-Treasurer in writing of his complaint in accordance with section 62 of the Conservation and Development Act.
Dated this 16th day of April, 2026.
Shelly Verbeurgt
Secretary-Treasurer
Box 210 Yellow Grass, Sask.
S0G 5J0
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL VILLAGE OF CEYLON
NOTICE is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Ceylon for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days:
Monday to Friday, April 17th, 2026 to May 18th, 2026
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the Village of Ceylon, 107 Main Street, P.O. Box 188, Ceylon, SK S0C 0T0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Nicolle Hoskins, P.O. Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 20th day of May, 2025.
Dated this 6th day of April, 2026. Leah Ward, Assessor
Agriculture and Agri-Food
Minister Heath MacDonald.
“Connecting young people with experienced mentors gives them the opportunity to learn and succeed in their careers, strengthening the agricultural industry as a whole.”
“The Next Gen Agriculture Mentorship Program has been influential in developing the next generation of agriculture leadership in our province,” said Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit.
Participants of the program gain experience in agricultural boards and their governance, agriculture advocacy, business development, networking, media management and financial management.
“Cohort 7 represents the next wave of leadership in Canadian agriculture,” said Shaun Kindopp, Canadian Western Agribition CEO. “Through mentorship and shared learning, Agribition is proud to support this group of emerging leaders as they continue to grow, challenge perspectives, and strengthen their leadership skills. Their drive, curiosity, and commitment to the industry will help shape the future of agriculture in Canada.”
This year’s mentees and mentors are:
• Alexa Berezowski, paired with mentor Cody McNernie;
• Cheyenne Quam, paired with mentor Krystal Tendler;
• Holly Sparrow, paired
with mentor Nicole Jones;
• Jessica Davey, paired with mentor Alan Jackson;
• Kaitlyn Kochanowski, paired with mentor Blake MacMillan;
• Mark McMurphy, paired with mentor Todd Andries;
• Kennedy MacNeil, paired with mentor Tom Harrison; and
• Cassidy Ross, paired with mentor Kelly Cruise. Mentees are selected by the Canadian Western Agribition Advisory Committee based on their application and letters of reference. Applicants must demonstrate clear strategic goals, strong leadership potential and a commitment to contributing to the agriculture community. Preference is given to in-
dividuals without access to similar leadership development opportunities.
This program 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 the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, and agribased 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.
Volunteers needed for Spring Book Sale
The Weyburn Public Library is looking for volunteers to help sort books leading up to and after the Spring Book Sale.
Volunteer times include Wednesday, April 15; Thursday, April 16; Friday, April 17; Saturday, April 18; Monday, April 20; Tuesday, April
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL
R.M. OF THE GAP NO. 39
NOTICE is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of The Gap No. 39 for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days:
Monday to Friday, April 17th, 2026 to May 18th, 2026
A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.
Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the R.M of The Gap No. 39, 107 Main Street, P.O. Box 188, Ceylon, SK S0C 0T0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $100 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Nicolle Hoskins, P.O. Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 18th day of May 2026.
Dated this 6th day of April, 2026.
Leah Ward, Assessor
21; Wednesday, April 22; and Saturday, April 22. Weekday sorting will start at 4 p.m., and Saturdays at 3:30 p.m.
Volunteers are also need during the sale, and can register by calling the Weyburn Public Library at 306842-4352.
THE SOURIS CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT AREA AUTHORITY ASSESSMENT ROLL 2026
Notice is hereby given that the assessment of the Souris Conservation and Development area authority has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Secretary-Treasurer, until the time for giving notice of complaints has expired, from ten o’clock in the forenoon until four o’clock in the afternoon on every juridical day except Saturday.
A person who desires to complain against an assessment or non-assessment may, within twenty days after the date of this notice, notify the Secretary-Treasurer in writing of his complaint in accordance with section 62 of the Conservation and Development Act.
Dated this 16th day of April, 2026.
Shelly Verbeurgt
Secretary-Treasurer Box 210 Yellow Grass, Sask. S0G 5J0
Sheila Roncin and her ‘3 Amigos’ needle-felt wool art won third place in the James Weir People’s Choice awards.
Olha
seed bead statue won first place at the James Weir People’s Choice awards.
Pauline Leippi’s acrylic painting ‘March Thaw’ won second place at the James Weir People’s Choice awards.
Deadline for classified submissions is Monday at 12 Noon
The Kamsack Times is hiring a Local Journalism Initiative (LJI) Reporter to produce original civic journalism for Kamsack; Cote, Keeseekoose and The Key First Nations; and surrounding towns. Job is a term position until March 31, 2027. Apply with cover letter and three writing samples to Devan Tasa at dtasa@tasamedia.ca. Your West Central Voice (Kindersley) is hiring an LJI Reporter for west central Saskatchewan and east central Alberta. The job is a contract position until March 2027 with the possibility for continuing employment. Full description at jeffgaulin.com. Apply with resume and writing samples to kate@yourwestcentral.com
Feed & Seed
FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
For Sale - Misc
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www.swna.com or call 306-649-1405 to find out how!
PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS
44 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details. Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association's Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.
De Feet Dance Challenge - April 9 to
Photos by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Over 700 dancers performed in Weyburn over the weekend.