Weyburn This Week - August 21, 2025

Page 1


Registration for hunting now open

Hunters, gear up and get ready for the 2025-26 hunting season.

“Hunting in Saskatchewan offers exceptional recreational opportunities, not only for our residents, but also for visitors across the world,” Environment Minister Travis Keisig said. “Our government values the vital role hunters play as stewards of our natural landscapes and as contributors to local economies through tourism and community engagement.”

Here are a few things you can do to prepare:

Get your copy of the Saskatchewan Hunters Guide

The Hunters Guide contains information hunters should know, including a detailed list of season dates hunters, options for licences and fees and highlights what is new for 2025, including species management plans, bovine tuberculosis and CWD updates and a new standalone regulations summary supplement.

Visit saskatchewan.

ca/hunting to download a copy of the guide or pick up a printed version at Government of Saskatchewan field offices with front counter service, select retailers and some provincial parks.

Purchase your hunting licences

Big Game Draw and regular licences are available for purchase as of August 1. You can purchase a licence:

• Online through the Hunting, Angling and Trapping Licence (HAL) system, 24 hours a day.

• In person at a Government of Saskatchewan field office with front counter service or at select provincial park offices.

• In person from any

Saskatchewan hunting licence issuer.

• By phone at 1-855848-4773 (you will require a credit card).

Hunters must provide their HAL identification number, or any other identification number previously added to their HAL account.

Get permission to hunt on private lands

Approximately 85 per cent of the land in southern Saskatchewan is privately owned or controlled. Consent from the owner is mandatory prior to entering and hunting on any private land:

• Consent can be provided in writing, orally or through signage.

• Consent can be sought and provided by any method including in person, by telephone and through email.

• For more information, download the Hunting Permission on Private Land fact sheet.

Check out the website

The Government of Saskatchewan website provides information to help plan your hunting trip:

• The 2025 Hunter Harvest Survey results (as well as results from previous years).

• The 2025-26 CWD Surveillance Program results (summary and map), along with other information about CWD testing.

• All the relevant guides and supplements posted in the Publications Centre.

Get in touch if you need more information

For information on HAL accounts, visit saskatchewanhal.ca or call 1-888-773-8450.

For more information about hunting in Saskatchewan or to download the Saskatchewan Hunters Guide, visit saskatchewan.ca/hunting.

Sara Parks SaskToday.ca

A casting call has officially been announced for SK Arts’ film Evergreen, a period drama set in 1910s Saskatchewan, written and directed by filmmaker Morgan Kelly.

The film follows the story of Louise, an aspiring artist navigating the complexities of family, ambition and hostility in the office of a small-town newspaper.

The title Evergreen holds a dual meaning for Kelly.

“Because the film partially revolves around a news office, I was looking for terms that relate to news, and ‘evergreen’ refers to a story that can be used at any time and is not necessarily time-

sensitive,” she said. “It also relates to the story of an artist trying to find balance between their creative aspirations and their personal life as a story that we see time and time again. I think many people will be able to relate to trying to find this balance.”

Set against the backdrop of prairie life, Evergreen explores Louise’s journey as she’s offered the chance to illustrate for the paper she works at—a rare opportunity for a woman of her time. As her sister prepares for marriage and her brother remains estranged, Louise must balance her creative aspirations with the emotional needs of those around her.

The main portion of production will take place

during designated shoot dates in mid to late September in Weyburn.

“There may be some additional filming for landscapes, locations, etc., without actors on later dates,” said Kelly.

The production has access to period-appropriate décor and costumes, thanks to Kelly’s local connections in Weyburn and her personal collection.

“I have many different pieces of clothing that I regularly wear that can also be used for this production. I also have several items of my own that fit the time period that we will be using.”

Doing historical films can present a problem when it comes to accuracy, but drawing on lessons

from a background in film history, Kelly said, “Because we’re not existing in the time period we’re portraying, we can never be ‘historically accurate,’ so that can take some of the pressure off. It’s important to be realistic in what items we can access, and so I’ve tried to create a story that works around what we can and cannot make use of. It’s challenging but a lot of fun.”

Once filming is complete, the lengthy process of editing will begin.

“I anticipate a 2026 or early 2027 release date of the film, depending on our crew schedules,” said Kelly.

Any actors interested in auditioning can email morgan.jones9@hotmail. com.

Costume prizes were awarded during the Halloween in the Park at Nickle Lake on August 16. Best costume went to the Flintstones: Knox, Brianna, Indy and Frank.
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

COMMUNITY

Kingston Midstream makes major donation to Theatre Project

The future of film in Weyburn is looking brighter due to Kingston Midstream, who donated $50,000 to the fundraising campaign for the city’s new movie theatre.

This donation adds to recent support from community leaders such as the Weyburn Young Fellows, and brings the current fundraising total to $1.7 million.

“At Kingston Midstream, we are com -

mitted to building and maintaining strong relationships in the communities in which we live and operate,” said Dena Bachorcik, Public Awareness and Community Investment Coordinator for Kingston Midstream.

“We believe in supporting local non-profit organizations, charities and community initiatives through our Community Investment efforts, particularly with the generous

NOTICE

We thank ever yone who has purchased tickets on the 2025 Jeep Compass North raffle. Due to lower than anticipated ticket sales, we are extending the draw to Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. with deadline to purchase a ticket on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. The draw for the vehicle and cash prizes will be held at Weyburn Dodge on October 23. Tickets are available at Weyburn Dodge as well as at the shelter. If you have questions about your ticket, please contact the shelter at 306-848-7387.

support from our parent company, James Richardson & Sons, Ltd.”

“The Richardson Foundation funding guidelines focus on helping create sustainable futures for Canadian charitable organizations in the Visual and Performing Arts, Educa -

tion, Youth Initiatives and Environmental Issues.”

“We believe that having a theatre in Weyburn again will be an asset to the community and surrounding area as an important visual and performing arts project to support,” added Bachorcik. “Promoting the arts,

enhancing quality of life, creating opportunities for social connection and increasing economic activity in the community.”

The project organizers hope the community will follow suit.

“Every dollar counts, and every gift takes us

one step closer to bringing movies back to Weyburn,” said Sean Purdue, Treasurer of the Theatre Board.

“We can’t do this without supporters like Kingston Midstream and we are honoured they chose to donate to such an important project for this community.”

Kingston Midstream donated $50,000 to the fundraising campaign for Weyburn’s new movie theatre. Pictured, l to r, Nolan Treble, Laila Bader, Trevor Hughes, Sean Purdue, Ryan Janke, Chris Hollingshead, Kevin Armstrong, Darren Istace and Dena Bachorcik.

Photo Submitted

MY OUTLOOK- INTERACTING WITH SOMEONE WHO ISN’T THERE EDITORIAL

The reaction was fast and furious, which wasn’t surprising. It’s hard not to react to something that sparks so much emotion.

You’ve likely seen it. A journalist, formerly employed on a cable news show, released the video of an interview he did with 17-year Joaquin Oliver. The teenager answers questions about gun violence, sports and movies, and asks questions of the host in return, in a conversation that goes on for five minutes. Fairly typical interview except for one major thing. Joaquin is gone. He died in the Parkland school shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida in February, 2018. On what would have been his 25th birthday, the artificially intelligent and interactive Joaquin, created by his parents, gave his first interview. According to Joaquin’s father, it was made with things their son wrote, said

and posted online, general information gleaned from the internet on various topics, and all animated from a real photograph using generative AI.

Joaquin’s dad assures viewers he has no illusions about reviving his son. He had previously created a one-man show about grief that he performed across the country. He is honest about his sorrow and understands this is AI. Joaquin’s mom spends hours asking him questions just so she can hear his voice again. But they say this isn’t about trying to bring their son back. Instead it’s about a national conversation.

Joaquin’s parents launched this project so their son, who lost his life in a shooting, could speak about gun safety. They will keep creating content so Joaquin can build a following and have a voice in these discussions. Dad said, “This is just the beginning” and plans to have artificially created Joaquin “on stage in the middle of a debate.”

This interview occurred one year

Celebrating the contributions of non-profit organizations

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

National Nonprofit Day, recognized on August 17, is a time to acknowledge and celebrate the ongoing efforts of nonprofit organizations to serve their communities and improve the lives of those who live in them.

A non-profit organization is an association or corporation committed to operating “exclusively for social welfare, civic improvement, pleasure, recreation, or any other purpose except profit”. Some examples of nonprofits include churches or church associations, schools, volunteer service organisations, medical providers, and research institutes.

Non-profits touch on issues in the social, health, community development and advocacy sectors, which are known to have gaps in services. In 2022, the total economic activity contributed by non-profit entities in Canada was $216.5 billion, or 8.2 per cent of the GDP (Statistics Canada, 2024).

Sports and recreation accounted for the greatest percentage of non-profit organizations in 2023 (33.3 per cent), followed by religious organizations (19.8 per cent), grant-making, fundraising and promotion (8.8 per cent), and social services (8.5 per cent). The lowest percentage of organizations was involved in health (1.0 per cent) and environmental activities (0.4 per cent) (Statistics Canada, 2024).

According to recent surveys, non-profit

organizations are facing increased demand for their services and more complex community needs, all while trying to make ends meet in the present economic environment with limited resources.

One of the most impactful ways to celebrate National Nonprofit Day is by volunteering your time and skills. Nonprofits often rely on volunteers to carry out their missions effectively. Consider spending a few hours at a local food bank, helping at an animal shelter, or offering your professional skills to a nonprofit that aligns with your expertise.

Donations, whether big or small, play a crucial role in supporting nonprofits. Whether you choose to make a one-time donation or set up a recurring contribution, your financial support can make a real difference.

In the digital age, social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness. Use your social media platforms to highlight the work of nonprofits on National Nonprofit Day.

Organizing a fundraising event in your community can have a significant impact. It’s an opportunity to bring people together for a common cause. You could host a charity run, a bake sale, a garage sale, or even a virtual event. The funds raised can be directed toward a nonprofit that you believe in.

National Nonprofit Day is a time to honour the tireless efforts of nonprofit organizations and the positive changes they bring to our world. Remember, even the smallest gesture can have a ripple effect that creates lasting change.

after the voices of other Parkland shooting victims were released to federal lawmakers to enact new legislation on gun reform. The AIgenerated voices of six victims placed robocalls to members of Congress urging action and asks at the end of the call, “How many dead voices will you hear before you finally listen?”

The use of AI to recreate deceased people has been used in other places including courtrooms where videos serve as victim impact statements. One judge in a road rage case said, “I loved that AI, thank you for that. I feel that that was genuine.”

Should this not cause immense concern? It does for me. Many experts continue to raise red flags and warn this can lead to misinformation, identity misuse and blurred lines between real and artificial experiences.

Back in 2018 I talked about Michael Jackson’s performance at the Billboard Music Awards - six years after he died. Years before that, fans were stunned to watch rapper Tupac - who had been dead for 17 years at the time - sing at a festival that hadn’t yet been launched when he was alive. We can now attend concerts where there are no actual singers or musicians on stage. The fact that the performer is no longer alive shouldn’t stop us? Or should it?

Opera legend Maria Callas went out on tour, decades after her death. A preview concert impressed many fans and music critics, some even admitting to being unnerved because she seemed

so real. Her digital creators say they could generate songs for her that she never actually sang so it is possible for one of the world’s most famous sopranos to sing rap or hip-hop, or any other genre of music with sound and lyrics she has no control over.

One wonders what her reaction might be. If any artist can be back at work thanks to the tech available, there may be those who control their estates that see great potential. Sending their dearly departed loved ones on the road again could be profitable.

As I listened to the father of Joaquin explain his mindset in all this, I heard him insist this is not about trying to bring his son back. But I can’t help but wonder if this is as much about the anguish as it is the advocacy. They lost their child. The most devastating loss. They are embracing the chance to see and hear him again. None of us have any right to comment on how someone else grieves. But we can question where this all might be going.

Requiescat in pace may not be possible for those whose impact on issues or potential economic gain is seen as useful. As this technology is put to use in everything from entertainment to advocacy; commerce to court room proceedings, it is something we need to grapple with. What we need to come to terms with is how we are going to deal with it in present day, and also when it comes to us from beyond the grave. That’s my outlook.

Ontario is taking a step toward planning new pipelines to bring Alberta oil and gas to the province for refining, issuing a request for proposals today for a feasibility study.

It follows a memorandum of understanding last month between Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan to build new pipelines as well as rail lines to take Ontario critical minerals to ports in Western Canada, and other infrastructure that they say will help Canada achieve greater energy security.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Canada can no longer rely on energy infrastructure outside its borders and

new pipelines and rail lines are needed both to ensure stability in Canadians’ access to energy and create jobs.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said an Alberta–Ontario energy corridor would help Alberta’s oil and gas get to markets across the country and around the world.

The feasibility study is also set to explore a new port outlet on James Bay, Hudson Bay and the Great Lakes, and look at the possibility of a new or expanded refinery along the pipeline route.

As well, Ontario wants the study to consider the benefits of establishing an emergency stockpile of petroleum.

in the fields close to Weyburn.

Iconic water tank on display in Carlyle

An iconic redwood water tank can be seen on display in Carlyle.

The first redwood water tank was built in 1892 by Black, Sivalls & Bryson (BS&B) to be used in the Pennsylvania oil fields. This was not the only place these large tanks were used. They were also placed on top of tall buildings in New York to allow upper levels to have water.

These tanks measured 16 feet across and eight feet deep. They worked on gravity to ensure that everyone on the top floors had water, as often the water from below could not reach higher levels.

BS&B’s capabilities rapidly expanded into the engineering and construction of metal tanks, separators and other leading oil and gas processing equipment. In 1927, they began to market their equipment in Western Canada. The redwood water tank in the photo was located northwest of Alida, where it was used as a pop tank for the treater. Woodland Development Corp took the idle tank and placed it by their shop in Carlyle, where it will be on display.

A plaque will be mounted on the tank, and it will read, “BS&B started manufacturing wooden tanks for the oil industry in 1892 in Pennsylvania. They opened their first plant in Canada in 1939 at Hartnell, Alberta. This tank was likely constructed in the mid to late 1950s and was located at 8-23-61W2M northwest of Alida. It appears as though it was in use until 2002 as a pop tank for the treater. Few of these tanks remain intact in Southeast Saskatchewan today, so Woodland decided to move it into Carlyle to preserve it for the public to see.”

OILFIELD DIRECTORY

This rare redwood water tank has not been used since the early years of 2000 and was constructed in the 1950s by BS&B. Its new home will be at Woodland Development Corp.

Trucking group report: fuel tax on refrigerated trailers adds to grocery costs

The Saskatchewan Trucking Association (STA) is calling on the provincial government to remove a road tax applied to fuel used in truck trailer refrigeration units, arguing the cost is unfair and contributes to rising food prices.

Currently, trucking companies in Saskatchewan are not permitted to use tax-reduced dyed diesel to power refrigeration units on trailers. While other sectors such as agriculture and forestry are allowed to use the lower-tax fuel for equipment that does not touch public highways, the same exemption is not extended to the

trucking industry.

George Henderson, director of operations and member services for the STA, said the 12-cent per litre road tax applied to these units is unjustified because the units are not used to drive on public roads.

“This extra road tax on diesel fuel used for refrigeration units on truck trailers is not only unfair

PETROLEUM LOCATIONS

Crossroads Convenience Hwy 13 &39, Weyburn •306-848-3689

Phone: (306) 842-4604 Fax: (306) 842-0535

Cardlock, Bulk Fuel, Propane,Trucker’sLounge Sud City Convenience 1794 -1st Ave, Weyburn •306-842-4199 Expanded Groc ery &Food Lines ,Propane, Twin BayTouchless CarWash,Lott ery

Lang Branch

301 Main St,Lang •306-464-2008

Bulk Fuel &Oil, Pump Gas ,Hardware,Agro Supplies ,S ervice Shop, Tires/Oil Changes Milestone Convenience

30 Carrington St,Milestone•306-436-2020

Pump Gas, Bulk Fuel &Oil, Cardlock, Convenience St ore, Lottery,Propane BeaubierBranch RailwayAve,Beaubier •306-447-4613

Grocery,Cardlock, Bulk Fuel,Farm Supplies Hardware,Hi-Hog Eq uipment, Livest ock Feed www.prairieskycoop.crs

because of these refrigeration units never touching the road, but because of how these additional taxes from the government are driving up the price of food in the province,” Henderson said.

The STA says each unit costs an additional $24,000 to fuel annually due to the tax. As these refrigeration units are used to transport both food and critical medications across the province, the association argues that the increased fuel costs are ultimately being passed on to consumers.

“It is crucial that government put the priorities of Saskatchewan people first and commit to stop raising the price of food and critical medications,” Henderson said.

The association is urging the province to allow the immediate use of dyed diesel in refrigerated trailers.

The STA says supporting the trucking industry in this way is one step toward addressing affordability concerns and keeping essential goods accessible for Saskatchewan families.

in Carlyle.
Photo courtesy Dennis Bartolf

August oil and gas public offering the best in over a decade

SaskToday staff

The Government of Saskatchewan’s latest Crown oil and natural gas public offering, held Aug. 5, has generated more than $24 million in revenue, the largest amount earned from such offerings in more than a decade. In total, bids for oil and natural gas leases and exploration licences generated $24,312,738. The last time a public offering for oil and natural gas rights

reached or exceeded that amount was in August 2014, when bids generated $48.4 million.

Saturn Oil & Gas Inc.’s $15,002,913 bid was the largest in this public offering. The bid was for a

prairie landscape.

3,998.250-hectare exploration licence for a parcel prospective for light oil in the southeast near Creelman. Overall, the southeast generated the most revenue, $23,407,574, driven by bids on three exploration licences and 23 leases for a total of 8,997.897 hectares. The Lloydminster area was next, with $545,033 generated, followed by the Kindersley area at $360,130.

Prairie Land & Investment Services Ltd. made the highest bid on a lease, offering $1,700,954 for a 129.289-hectare parcel southeast of Lampman in the southeast. Prairie Land’s bid works out to $13,156.22 per hectare.

This offering saw 40 parcels in the province receive acceptable bids, covering a total area of 12,037.530 hectares. It was the third of six such offerings for the 2025-26 fiscal year, over which time the Government of

Saskatchewan has raised $45,423,984. Leases are offered with five-year terms and are issued to drill for and produce oil or natural gas. Exploration licences have terms of two to five years and are issued in less developed areas for exploration and production.

Several factors affect public offering activity, including oil and gas prices, land availability, various market conditions, and geological and technological constraints.

“I am pleased to see

this strong uptake in the Ministry of Energy and Resource’s bi-monthly public offering process for Crown oil and gas land,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “The oil and gas sector is a pillar of our province’s economy and it continues to generate exploration interest. As Saskatchewan’s resources generate more investment, it helps to grow the economy and ultimately benefits everyone in the province.

• Morethan $100 millioninlocal economic benefits, including municipal taxrevenues, over the project’s expected life.

• Approximately 200construction jobs will provide significantspin-offbenefits to local businesses, likehotels, restaurants, shops and services.

• A communit ybenefitfund supporting localneeds throughout construction andoperation.

• Road repair and upgrades thatwillenhance local infrastructure—Enbridge-paid.

Formorethan 75 years, Enbridgehas been more than justpipelines in Saskatchewan. We’reyour neighbour, dedicatedtothe communities whereweliveand work Learn moreat enbridge.com/sevenstars

A service rig stands quiet in the southeast
Service rig crews are essential to maintaining oil and gas production in Saskatchewan.
Photo courtesy Bill Allen Photography

City council approves renaming football field in honour of Allin

Sara Parks SaskToday.ca

In a tribute to a local legend, Weyburn city council unanimously voted to rename the Weyburn Minor Football Field to Brent Allin Field during their regular meeting on Aug. 11. The decision came after the Weyburn Minor

Football Association submitted an application with the request, highlighting Allin’s decades of dedication to the sport and the community.

“Brent had a huge impact on Weyburn Minor Football as a parent, as a coach, as a board member, and just a builder of our facility and our association,”

Ryan Maloney, president of Weyburn Minor Football told council, adding that Allin helped shape the growth and strategic direction of the association.

City councillors echoed that sentiment, with Coun. Laura Morrisette saying Allin “inspired volunteering in this community.”

Coun. John Corrigan

said Allin’s contributions extended beyond football.

“They can’t obviously be named here because it would take too long to recognize those contributions he has made to our community.”

Allin’s nomination detailed his tireless volunteer work with Weyburn Minor Football over the past two

Natalie, Blakey, Eberly, Zoey and Lela learned a new hula-hoop relay race game, during an ‘Under the Sea’ Fun Camp held at De Tricky Feet on August 14.

decades, where he served in multiple roles, as broadcaster, coach, board member, builder, construction supervisor, and mentor. His efforts were instrumental in the development of the new Weyburn Minor Football Field, which opened in September 2017.

The facility, primarily used by Weyburn Minor Football, was first proposed to the city in 2010. The association has since funded and maintained key infrastructure, including field lighting, stands, washrooms, buildings, fences, and irrigation.

The city’s Naming Advisory Committee reviewed the application and recommended approval with two conditions. Brent Allin Field must be used in all facility-related print materials and programming advertisements and that Weyburn Minor Football cover the costs in connection with the modification, replacement, relocation or reproduction of any signs.

According to his obituary, Allin passed away in November 2024, at 59. Born in Moose Jaw in 1965, he lived with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease but demonstrated remarkable resilience, inspiring those around him. Known

for his outgoing personality, curiosity, compassion, and conversational skills, he formed lasting connections across the community.

In his youth, Allin was active in Cubs, intramural sports, music, and student council. He developed a passion for electronics, becoming the sound technician for the high school rock band, Stryder, and contributing to school productions and telethons.

Professionally, Allin worked in community television with Weyburn’s local station and Access Communications, advocating for public programming that highlighted local events, politics, and interviews. He also volunteered with the Access Communications Children’s Fund, supporting at-risk youth. His dedication earned him numerous accolades, including Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association’s Junior Citizen of the Year (1982), Weyburn Chamber of Commerce Golden Spike Award (2016), and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (2022).

Forced into early retirement due to his illness, Allin devoted more time to volunteering, sports, and his beloved dogs, Diefenbaker and The Pug.

Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

Ministerial Message: preparing our move to Heaven

This last month we have been preparing to have a garage sale and get rid of some of the stuff we have accumulated over our lifetime. This was partially brought on by a friend of ours whose husband had passed away recently, and my wife was helping her sort through their life’s accumulated stuff.

In conversation with our children, who said they don’t want to deal with our lifetime accumulation of things either, and in consideration of what scripture says we decided it is time to start preparing our move towards heaven.

1 Timothy 6:7 says “For we brought nothing into this

world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” Job 1:21 “Naked came I, out of my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return thither: The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” All the things we accumulate during our lifetime we can take nothing with us when we die. In other cultures, and times, they used to bury the people’s earthly treasures with the pharaohs etc. and years later as archeologist dig up the graves, they find the “treasures” there not the people, reaffirming the truth of scripture. As we get older and wiser we realize that what we thought we owned, all these things house, car, etc. actually own us. What do I mean? The more things you own the more things re-

quire your time and energy to maintain, and look after, even money and investments. Matt. 6:19-21 “Lay not up for yourselves treasure upon the earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and thieves break through and steal; rather lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Jesus was telling us the things we value we accumulate and hold onto we put our time and effort into.

As my wife and I are going through these things we have come to realize, these things might have sedimental value to us, but

mean nothing to anyone else, therefore will be of no value to the next generation, for the most part. We have come to realize our heavenly hope is much more valuable to us, than these earthly things. Our earthly treasure only lasts our lifetime Psa. 90:10, 12 “The days of our years are three score and ten (60+10) years; and if reason of strength they be four score years (80) yet is there strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. So, teach us to number our days.”

A quote I heard during my life that has always stuck with me is,” It has been said that if you want to plant something that will last a year, plant a flower; if you want to plant some-

Farms & Ranches

thing that will last a lifetime, plant a tree; if you want to plant something that will last forever, plant the good news of the gospel in the heart of a lost family member or person.”

This is Pastor Cameron Weber saying don’t put all your time and energy into accumulating material things, for you can’t take nothing with you when you die, rather put your time and energy into people and seeing them come to know God, and have a relation-

ship with Jesus Christ. That way when you, your family and friends pass away, they will join you in heaven for eternity which is a lot longer than 70 or 80 years. We never know how long we have, we could have an accident or heart attack and die today, so would you be ready for heaven, or are you accumulating things in this life that have no value? As for my wife and I we are selling off or giving away our accumulated stuff and getting ready to move to heaven!!

Saskatchewan exceeds the national average in licensed nurses

Over the last decade, Saskatchewan’s supply of nurses has grown by more than 2,700 (an increase of 18.3 per cent since 2015), enhancing care to communities throughout the province.

A recent report released by the Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI), Nursing in Canada 2024, shows that the province continues to rank higher than both national and Western Canadian averages in several key supply and workforce measures.

“Not only does this

latest data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information show that the province’s nursing workforce is growing, it also confirms it is one of the country’s largest on a per capita basis for both urban and rural areas,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “We recognize that these are not just numbers, but a team of dedicated healthcare professionals helping patients, and their families. This is why our government has focused our efforts to boost and strengthen our nursing

workforce so we can deliver strong results and benefit residents and communities across the province.”

Nearly 17,500 nurses were licensed to work in Saskatchewan in 2024, with 1,411 nurses per 100,000 population, the highest per capita supply among all Western Canadian provinces, and higher than the Canadian average of 1,207. For the same year, Saskatchewan had the highest per 100,000 population of Registered Nurses (1,009) and Nurse Practitioners (23) and the

Axel, Susan and Augusta showed off their muscles, as they danced during a sing-along held at the Lighthouse Church Vacation Bible School, August 12 to 14.

second highest for Licensed Practical Nurses (315) and Registered Psychiatric Nurses (64) in Western Canada. Saskatchewan continues to make robust investments through the province’s HHR Action Plan to further enhance staffing and support nursing teams so they can provide the care people need, and has seen key successes as a result of these efforts:

• Almost 2,300 nursing graduates were hired by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) between April 2023 and June 2025;

• Nearly 400 Filipino RNs were recruited and are working in communities across the province;

• Over the past fiscal year (2024-25), the SHA hired more than 1,420 new RNs/RPNs and saw a net gain of more than 900 new nurses;

• As part of 315 new and enhanced permanent full-

time positions added in high priority health occupations since 2022 to stabilize staffing in rural and northern areas, 250 new full-time permanent nursing positions were filled and another 65 permanent full-time RN positions were added in 30 rural and northern locations, with 60 now filled; and

• The SHA recently announced the addition of 77 new and enhanced permanent full-time positions to benefit 30 rural and remote communities, which will include RNs, LPNs and RPNs, along with other health professionals in high demand.

• Over 340 first-year nursing seats have been added in Registered Nursing, Registered Psychiatric Nursing, Licensed Practical Nursing and Nurse Practitioner programs at post-secondary institutions across the province.

A Rural and Remote

Recruitment Incentive of up to $50,000 is available to high priority health care professionals, including nurses (RNs, RPNs, NPs and LPNs), who receive a permanent full-time job offer from the SHA or its affiliates to work in a rural and remote area of the province. A relocation grant of up to $40,000 paid over five years is available to support NPs who are willing to relocate to rural or northern communities with a population of 10,000 or less. The province offers up to $20,000 in Saskatchewan student loan forgiveness to nursing graduates who choose to work in designated rural and mid-sized communities across the province, and the Graduate Retention Program was recently increased to provide up to $24,000 in tax credits to post-secondary graduates who build their careers and lives in Saskatchewan.

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF FILLMORE NO. 96 TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land described in the following list are fully paid before October 24, 2025, a tax lien will be registered against the land.

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

Dated this 14th day of August, 2025.

Vernna Wiggins, Administrator

Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

Estevan police receive 12% raise over three years in new CBA

The Estevan Police Association (EPA) and the Estevan board of police commissioners have signed off on a new threeyear collective bargaining agreement (CBA).

Mayor Tony Sernick, who is also the chairman of the police board, said the deal is retroactive to Jan. 1, 2025, and will expire at the end of 2027. He added it includes a four per cent wage increase each year, with this year’s pay hike again retroactive to the start of 2025.

The new deal, which was signed Aug. 14, also includes tweaks for benefits.

Sernick noted a consultant was brought in for this latest negotiation because some of the wording in the old CBA was dated. The terms in the new contract were brought up to date, with approval from the board and the EPA.

“We brought the whole document up to 2025 standards,” said Sernick, who believes half of the negotiating time was dedicated to wording.

This marked the first time Sernick was part of negotiations with the police board. The previous CBA was negotiated before Sernick joined the police board in 2023 as a councillor.

“There was a few of us in the room like that, so that’s another reason why we felt it was nice to have a consultant there just to run the show, and she had a lot of experience in this stuff. It helped a lot,” said Sernick.

The deal was reached after two days of talks in June that lasted six or seven hours each day. The wage increase was the final piece of the puzzle, he said.

“The two sides weren’t that far apart. There were compromises on both sides, and we came together with those numbers, and everybody seems to be happy with it.”

He was pleased with how the negotiations progressed this time. The EPA was professional throughout the process, he said, and Sernick is happy to have a deal reached before the negotiations drag out, which has happened

in the past.

“It’s good that the city and the association can put all of this on the backburner for three years, and get ready for the end of

2027,” said Sernick.

He said he hopes the two sides can reach their next agreement prior to the next civic election in 2028.

The Estevan Police Association could not be reached for comment.

The city’s agreement with the Canadian Union of Public Employees Lo -

cal 726, which represents the city’s unionized staff members, expires at the end of this year, and Sernick expects negotiations will begin in the fall.

Laughter, music and good crowds for the SV Theatre this summer

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

The main-stage musicals offered by Estevan’s Souris Valley Theatre attracted more people this year.

Two productions were staged at the theatre’s Frehlick Hall this year.

Yellowstone: A Wild West Musical was performed in July, while Golden Gals: Vacation took place in August; the final show for the latter was Aug. 14. Both shows were written by long-time playwright Randy Apostle.

Theatre board president Allison Holzer said 1,774 people attended Yellowstone’s 10 evening showings and one matinee, while Golden Gals drew 1,665 for its 11 performances. Frehlick Hall seats 244 spectators, she said. The afternoon show for Golden Gals was particularly well attended, she said, which is nice because the matinees don’t always draw well.

“From last year, our first show was up about 200 [people] and our second show was just about bang on, exactly the same as last year,” said Holzer.

She believes the attendance boost for the first show might be because the Yellowstone TV show just wrapped up last winter and it remains a

very popular program. As for Golden Gals, ti was based on the Golden Girls sitcom, which ran in the 1980s and 1990s but still has a strong following in syndication.

Holzer believes the weather might have contributed to this year’s attendance increase. The theatre didn’t have to cancel any shows for either production because of heat or other adverse conditions. The theatre had extra fans for the audience and stage areas to help keep everyone cool.

“They had some really hot weather during rehearsals, but they managed to push through that,” said Holzer.

Concession sales were good this year as well, she said. The actors were happy and she said they want to come back next year.

“They keep saying they’re spoiled,” said Holzer. “They love it. They all want to keep coming back. They say it’s like summer camp.”

The theatre is in the process of upgrading its accommodations for the cast. It will bring in a third mobile home, which might allow it to have a larger cast. Two of the fifth-wheel units will be removed.

Holzer expects the theatre will continue to bring

in two musicals each year. People seem to like them. They’ve tried a mix with musicals and plays in the past, but musicals tend to do better.

“They want it lighter, fluffier, happier, funnier, a little dancing and singing. I think people want to go away just happy, and not have to do a lot of deep thinking,” said Holzer.

She noted Apostle has opened a dinner theatre in Winnipeg, and had already staged both shows.

The theatre season kicked off in June with a concert by Saskatchewan musician Jeffrey Straker. Holzer said it likely attracted about 150 people, and it was a great show.

The season will wrap up Aug. 21 with a con -

cert by the Johner Brothers and the Johner Boys; as of the evening of Aug. 16, Holzer said there were just 10 tickets remaining.

The theatre also had several weeks of camps for youths, and those wrapped up Aug. 15.

Holzer commended theatre manager Shirley Hildebrand, bookkeeper Denise Olsen, marketer

Breanne Lees, the three summer students, Woodlawn Regional Park staff and the volunteers for making this season a success.

“It’s thanks to everybody pulling together that we have that makes the season go really nicely, when you have people pulling together,” said Holzer.

Yellowstone: A Wild West Musical was performed in July at Estevan’s Souris Valley Theatre. It was one of two productions at the Frehlick Hall.
Photo David Willberg/SaskToday.ca
Members of the Estevan Police Association, Estevan Police Service administration and Estevan board of police commissioners gathered for a group photo.
Photo sourced from the Estevan Police Service’s Facebook page

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
Weyburn This Week - August 21, 2025 by Weyburn Review/ Weyburn This Week - Issuu