A stronger inter-provincial trade in Western Canada is the positive thing that Premier Scott Moe sees as the outcome of the US’s imposition of 35 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, after the trade deadline set on Friday, Aug. 1.
Moe, last month, sent invitations to other provincial premiers to join the New West Partnership Trade Agreement, which was patterned on the Canada Free Trade Agreement. The federal government signed the CFTA with all 13 provinces and territories.
He said the NWP may not be perfect, but it aims to remove trade barriers within the country, which goes beyond establishing stronger inter-provincial trade. British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan were the first to sign, with Manitoba joining in 2017.
“It goes further in the way of trade regulation, reducing the regulatory differences that we might have, allowing people to move freely between the provinces, career professionals and otherwise,” said Moe, during a press event at the Saskatchewan Cabinet Office.
“It has lowered procurement triggers. It’s a free and open procurement space, where an Alberta company can bid in Saskatchewan, or vice versa. It hasn’t been without questions as we have gone through the years, but it also has a procedure for resolving disputes, unlike the CFTA.”
He added that the NWP is the strongest and most expansive agreement that Saskatchewan has today, finding some regulatory alignment and allowing more free movement of career professionals in the provinces and opening up
better trade relations across the country.
Moe has also urged the federal government to continue strengthening the economies of provinces, like Saskatchewan, by adopting the “Strong Saskatchewan, Strong Canada Plan” that would benefit the entire country.
He added that approving the needed economic infrastructure projects, like pipelines and rail lines, and eliminating federal regulations that prevent economic development, like the Oil and Gas Emissions Cap and the Clean Electricity Standard, would grow inter-provincial trade.
“There is much more that Canada can do to control its economic destiny, but the federal government must remove barriers to growth to achieve this. Canadians should double down on our efforts to ensure that we are advancing and providing every opportunity for our economy to enhance the value, the jobs, the opportunity that we have as Canadians in whatever industry that might be,” said Moe.
“By advancing and accelerating the projects that are under Bill C-5, as well as doing the heavy lifting and the work in improving the regulatory environment that we have to attract investment, to expand the industries that are creating value in our communities, and ultimately to provide Saskatchewan and Canadian families a greater opportunity in the years ahead. We need to control what we can control.”
Bill C-5, or the One Canadian Economy Act, has two components: facilitating trade and labour mobility across the country by removing barriers, and amending the Criminal Code and Controlled
and Substances Act.
this week
Jennie Moule applied paint to the edge of a paddle, while completing a design during the Paint and Paddle Night for the Weyburn Canoe and Kayak Club held on July 26.
COMMUNITY
Special Olympics hosts ‘Try it Day’
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
Special Olympics Saskatchewan is bringing its Active Start and FUNdamentals programs to Weyburn with a free “Try it Day” on Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the River Park Spray Pad.
The event aims to introduce young athletes with intellectual disabilities to foundational sports skills.
Tara Meier, youth and health co-ordinator for Special Olympics Saskatchewan, said that Active Start (ages 2-6) focuses on basic skills that are needed to play certain sports such as throwing, catching, kicking, and jumping, while FUNdamentals (ages 7-12) builds on those skills by introducing structured sports play.
“The main objectives are to create a love for sport at a young age to help create a life-long passion for sport,” said Meier.
The event will feature multiple activity stations where children can practice different skills at their own pace. Meier said that the program is fully adaptable to meet each child’s need.
“By giving a variety of options and no set rules for example if a child (athlete) has any sensory issues we can work with them to find equipment that they feel comfortable using. Being flexible, not having a one size fits all mentality.”
Weyburn is new to the Active Start and FUNdamentals programs, but after two volunteers completed the Coaching Young Athletes training this spring, organizers hope to launch a full program in 2025.
“This event is to help see the interest in a program such as Active Start and FUNdamentals to add to our many other Special Olympic Weyburn Programs,” said Meier.
Maddison and Scarlett offered different flavours of lemonade during a warm July afternoon. Many young entrepreneurs have set up stands around their neighbourhoods over the summer.
Charitable Gaming grants delivered to community groups across Saskatchewan
Lotteries and Gaming Saskatchewan (LGS) provided about $2.49 million in charitable gaming grants in the first quarter of 2025-26, benefiting more than 1,000 groups and organizations across the province.
“Our government is committed to delivering for Saskatchewan communities and one of the ways we do that is through
charitable gaming grants,” Minister Responsible for LGS Jeremy Harrison said.
“Proceeds from gaming in Saskatchewan support charitable organizations and activities across the province, including the arts, culture and sport, hospital foundations, service clubs and more.”
Groups from 250 Saskatchewan communities received a charitable gaming grant in the first quarter of 2025-26, with more than $19,000 was distributed to groups in Weyburn.
The Legacy Park Ele -
mentary School School Community Council received $2,473. The Little Discoveries Early Learning Co-operative received $3,184.
The Royal canadian Legion Weyburn Branch received $1,741. The Southeast U15AA Whitecap Resources Gold Wings Hockey Club received $2,598. The U11AA Panther Drilling Wings received $329. The Weyburn U18 AAA Gold Wings received $458. The Weyburn and District Junior Hockey As-
sociation received $6,146. The Senior Beavers Baseball Club received $339. The Weyburn Soccer Association received $573. The Weyburn Wildlife Federation received $277. The WeyStrong group received $353. The YF Wives received $588.
The amount of each grant paid by LGS to each charity is calculated by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) based on financial reports and other information submitted by the group or organization.
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
EDITORIAL
THE RUTTLE REPORT - THE TIMES, THEY ARE A-SPEEDING BY
Derek
Ruttle SaskToday.ca
It’s amazing what a good rainfall can do to you.
And frankly, what it can also do *for* you.
A few nights ago, I found myself staying up very late (what else is new?) and watching some TV. Nothing was particularly interesting on the ole boob tube on this evening and so my head wandered. I happened to catch a glimpse out my bedroom window down the hall and noticed droplets of water.
‘It’s raining?’, I thought to myself.
I hadn’t even noticed it. With it being nighttime, as well as the onetwo combination of the balcony doors being closed and a fan always on in the summertime, I hadn’t really bothered to look or listen outside to see or hear what was going on.
When I opened the door, I was pleasantly surprised to see a nice hearty downpour taking place, washing over the town of Outlook.
I didn’t even remember rain being in
the forecast that night, but that’s kind of the beauty or the mystery of summer weather in Saskatchewan, isn’t it? It might be calling for sunshine, and then you’ll see the storm clouds rolling in, and vice versa.
Something about this particular rainfall on this particular night just spoke to me in some fashion, so I kept the balcony door open, turned off the TV, and just sat in my living room, now clouded in complete darkness and listened to the consistent pattern of rain dropping down and soaking the streets, alleys, avenues, and everywhere else around town.
There was just something soothing about it, to the point of being almost hypnotic.
Soon enough, my mind started to wander, and I don’t even know why I was drawn to the subject, but I started to think about moments in my life that are now nothing but faded memories. I was then reminded of how it seems that life is jetting by all of us too damn fast.
Care for an example? Well, here’s
Ministerial: Slowing Down
By Pastor Brian Hopfe
Generations Pastor Weyburn Free Methodist Church
Some of us look forward to slowing down in the summer - spending time with family and friends at barbecues, lounging by the pool, taking a trip or two, and sleeping in. For other people, it means cramming as much as possible into the short season: a summer job, classes, athletic training, trips, an impossible bucket list, but goes much better when all topped off with ice cream.
As summer is happening, I hope you are able to take some time to rest. In the first book of the Bible we read in Genesis 2:2-3, “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done”. If the God takes a rest, how much more should we! Doctors tell us that rest keeps our bodies and minds healthy.
I can assure you that rest is easier said than done. Suddenly pausing after a busy time, for some, can feel strange and uncomfortable. It feels a lot like putting aside your phone for a few hours, which can initially cause anxiety or restlessness. Author Bob Goff says, “God isn’t going to try
to shout over all of the noise in our lives.” Filling our days with meaningful activity is good, but if we don’t purposefully create moments to slow down, we may miss God’s voice.”
There are several verses in the Bible that talk about rest and slowing down. Here are a few”
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him…” (Psalm 37:7a).
“In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15). “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
“Because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, [Jesus] said to [his disciples], ‘Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.’ So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place” (Mark 6:31-32).
I encourage you to accept God’s gift of rest for you and listen for His voice. This is not to say don’t work hard but it is to say allow yourself time to be still. Don’t overcommit yourself, try praying and spending some of your time thinking about God.
one for ya.
Remember that glorious year of 2020 and the whole ‘COVID Era’ we all had to endure and make the most out of?
Any kids who were born that year will now be starting Kindergarten this fall.
Yep, the ‘COVID Generation’ is growing up and now heading off to school.
I actually had to look at my hand and count to five to remind myself that, yes sir, it’s been five years since the world was turned upside down and we all had to make the best of it. And evidently, some of you, well.... decided to boost the local population numbers in the process.
Hope your kids enjoy their debut in their local schools!
Indeed, life goes by quick.
But I sat there listening to the pitter patter of that rainfall and thought about some of the memories of my own childhood. Again, I don’t really know why, but it made me think of these same kind of rainy nights when I was growing up in Conquest; it’d be raining outside, but my brothers and I didn’t care because we’d be downstairs, covered in blankets on the floor, with the big box fan blowing, and we’d be getting ready to watch Kids in the Hall and the Golden Girls on CBC, also known as their “Friday Late Night lineup”.
I’m finding that I miss those simple times from when we were kids more and more as I get older. I was a Conquest kid who lived in a
protective bubble, just the same as many other kids who grew up in other smaller towns like Dinsmore, Milden, Macrorie, Birsay, Lucky Lake, and Beechy. All I ever had to worry about was getting my homework done, making sure that allowance money kept rolling in, and coming up with ways for my friends and I to spend our Friday and Saturday nights.
That old saying is right on the money; it truly was a simpler time.
There weren’t things like heartache and depression just yet, or trying to find your footing in this crazy world that seems to get bigger and more confusing and unforgiving, or the cold reality that comes with thinking about this time in your life while knowing that so much has changed, so much has gone away, so many family members have passed, and the world has transformed itself upside down since that much simpler time in your life from literally decades ago.
Your parents are gone. Your childhood home has been sold. Your cherished memories are just simply that - memories. Your life is wholly different from the time when you were growing up and surrounded by family and friends.
I just find that I sometimes miss the world I lived in when I was 9 years old.
I mean, doesn’t everyone...?
Sometimes, we could all use one of those rainy nights where we just sit back and remember.
For this week, that’s been the Ruttle Report.
Post your Summer Activity photos on theThisWeek/Review Facebook page.You could win a gift certificate courtesy of MEOK JA & WeyburnThisWeek!!
THINGS TO EXPERIENCE THIS AUGUST
Sometimes it’s easy to take for granted what you have in your own backyard.
After all, you’re so used to seeing it, you just always expect that it will always be there – but it can also become easy to miss.
Some attractions are a community’s “best-kept secret”, as they are things everybody should know about but don’t, when it should be a pretty big deal.
This is not just a phenomenon in Weyburn, nor is it a Saskatchewan thing. People in all communities don’t give themselves enough credit for having all sorts of things others would genuinely like to see or experience.
Sometimes here in Weyburn, we seem to forget how much we have going for us.
A note for the rest of the country: there are a lot more attractions and activities to do than just work and stare at endlessly flat spaces. Those flat, wide-open spaces yield some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets on the planet in the “Land of the Living Skies”, along with a lot of rolling hills and valleys for us to enjoy.
Take a look at Weyburn and the surrounding area. You’ll find all sorts of great things to do in all directions.
Head southeast of Weyburn and you’ll find Nickle Lake Regional Park, one of the best regional parks in the province. It’s beautiful and well-maintained, with terrific campsites, along with a beach, boat docks, a new paddling pool and minigolf to enjoy.
Go further southeast, you’ll find Mainprize Regional Park
on the Rafferty Dam, with its boat launch, beach and golf course.
Nearer the city you can take in the Weyburn Golf Course, a beautiful 18-hole golf course and clubhouse, with a practice putting green and driving range.
Life is just as much fun when you come into the city. The Weyburn Leisure Centre is home to the city’s outdoor swimming pool next door along with the Credit Union Spark Centre.
In addition, Weyburn has two spray park facilities, at River Park and at the Young Fellows/Don Mitchell Tot Lot, including a paddling pool and playground at the latter location.
The Tatagwa Parkway trail system offers trails all around the city, connecting with the picturesque River Park and campground, which features disc golf and a gazebo, and a kayak/canoe launch onto the Souris River.
Another park area is Jubilee Park, which has pathways along with ball diamonds for minor ball and softball teams, and sports fields for soccer and lacrosse.
You can go for a meal at one of our great restaurants, some of which have patios to enjoy on warm summer evenings. If you’re from out of town, you might want to spend overnight at one of the city’s hotels or motels, and visit one of the shopping areas the following day.
Weyburn is blessed with a number of cultural experiences as well that will allow you to further your artistic skills, or admire the abilities of others.
You don’t have to look very far to find something to do in Weyburn this August.
SPORTS
Rick Hallberg: a senior golf legend at 61 with six provincial titles
The Weyburn Silver Seals participated in the South Sask. Semis swim meet in Estevan on July 19 with 37 Weyburn athletes participating. Swimmers finishing sixth or better included:
Nine-10 year-old male division: Alexander Hambley - fifth 100 back, sixth 50 back; Daniel Nikulin - fourth 100 back, sixth 50 breast, fifth 100 free, sixth 100 breast; Ishanne Kir Subnaen - sixth 100 free; Zane Warrenthird 25 fly, first 100 free, third 50
fly, first 50 free, second 100 IM.
11-12 year-old female division: Milly Ho - sixth 200 free, sixth 50 fly, fifth 50 free; Alexandra Jose - fourth 200 free, sixth 100 breast; Kassandra Madriaga - second 200 free, second 50 breast, first 100 breast, fourth 50 free; Rehaam Manzoor - fifth 25 fly, fifth 100 free, fourth 50 back, second 50 free; Elin Min - fourth 50 fly; Shay Warren - second 100 back, second 25 fly, third 100 free, second 50 fly, second 200 IM. 11-12 year-old male division: Josh Gill - third 200 free, fifth 50 breast, fifth 50 back, sixth 100 breast, third 50 free; Bentley McKinney - fifth 100 back; Cody Wig - third 100 back, fourth 100 free, third 50 back, fourth 50 free; Topher Wilkinson - first 25 fly, first 50 breast, first 100 breast, second 50 free, second 200 IM.
13-14 year-old female division: Ava Donison - third 50 fly, fifth 100 free, first 100 fly, third 50 free, third 200 IM; Daisy Popescu - third 100 breast, third 100
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
At 61, Rick Hallberg remains a force in senior golf, having won six of the last eight provincial championships. Now he will lead Team Saskatchewan at the Canadian Men’s Senior Golf Championship in New Minas, Nova Scotia from Sept. 9 to 12.
His secret? No magic formula, just decades of dedication and a love for competition.
“Oh, I don’t know,” said Hallberg when asked about his consistency. “I just play lots of golf and try to play a lot of tournaments.”
There was no single turning point in his recent victories, just steady, disciplined play.
“Not really,” he said. “I just tried to avoid making bogeys and keep the ball in play.”
free, second 100 back, second 200 breast, fourth 50 free; Sakoda Seitz - third 200 free, sixth 50 fly, second 100 fly, fifth 200 IM; Brenna Torkelson - sixth 100 back, sixth 200 breast, fifth 50 breast.
13-14 year-old male division: Nikolas Nikulin - second 100 breast, third 50 back, third 100 back, first 50 free, first 50 breast; Nash Warren - fifth 200 free, third 200 back.
15-17 year-old female division: Avryelle Molnar - sixth 50 fly, third 100 free, fifth 100 fly, third 50 free, fourth 50 breast. 1517 year-old male division: Jacob Gill - second 50 fly, first 100 breast, second 50 back, first 100 fly, second 50 breast.
18 & over male division: Dalton Molnar - first 50 fly; first 100 breast, first 100 fly, second 50 free, first 50 breast.
Sask. Summer Swim Provincials were held in Watrous on July 26 and 27 with 26 Weyburn athletes participating.
A lifetime on the course
Hallberg’s golf journey began almost as soon as he could walk, swinging a club by age four or five. While his game has evolved over the decades, experience has sharpened his strategy.
“I probably play a little smarter golf than when I was younger,” he said. “I play a lot of golf with my buddies at the lake and I play a lot of tournaments.”
His mindset in competition has also shifted.
“I would say I approach it a little bit different now, just focus on not making bogeys and not making mistakes, try to play smart golf.”
Staying tournament tough
With nine or 10 events already played this year, Hallberg believes his mental edge comes from constant competition.
Nine-10 year-old male division: Alexander Hambleyeighth 100 back, tenth 50 back; Daniel Nikulin - seventh 100 back, seventh 50 breast, ninth 100 free, sixth 100 breast; Ishanne Kir Subna-en - eleventh 100 free; Zane Warren - third 25 fly, first 100 free, third 50 fly, first 50 free, first 100 IM.
11-12 year-old female division: Milly Ho - seventh 200 free, eleventh 25 fly, eighth 50 fly, seventh 50 free, eighth 200 IM; Alexandra Jose - fifth 200 free, eighth
the amount of competitive rounds that I play in a year. That helps. I think I’ve played about nine or 10 tournaments already this year.”
He is excited to be leading Team Saskatchewan at the Canadian Senior Championships. Joining him will be Brad Phelps (Saskatoon) and Martin Green (Prince Albert). “I’m looking forward to it,” said Hallberg.
The real reward:
The golf family
What fuels his fire after all these years? For Hallberg, it’s the friendships forged on fairways across the country.
It’s all the great guys he meets at these tournaments, he said. He has been to the nationals many times and developed friendships over the years.
“There’s probably about 20 guys that pretty much go to all the same tournaments I
100 breast; Kassandra Madriaga - fourth 200 free, third 50 breast, second 100 breast, fifth 50 free; Rehaam Manzoor - eighth 25 fly, sixth 100 free, eleventh 50 fly, sixth 50 free; Elin Min - fifh 50 fly; Shay Warren - third 100 back, third 25 fly, third 100 free, first 50 fly. 11-12 year-old male division: Josh Gill - fourth 200 free, third 50 breast, sixth 100 breast, third 50 free; Cody Wig - third 100 back, fourth 100 free, fourth 50 back, fourth 50 free; Topher Wilkinson - first 25 fly, first 50 breast, first 100 breast, second 50 free, third 200 IM.
go to. I have made so many good friends through the years.”
He said he has made buddies with guys at the nationals from just about every province and he looks forward to seeing them at the upcoming Canadian tournament in Nova Scotia in September.
“It’s nice to get back out there and see all those guys and hang out with them for a week while you’re participating in a championship.” Advice for next generation For young golfers eyeing similar success, Hallberg keeps it simple.
“The best advice I can give a young golfer is get some good instruction,” he said, adding they should start young.
“Get them out on the golf course and having fun and it will progress from there.”
15-17 year-old male division: Jacob Gill - second 50 fly, first 100 breast, second 50 back, first 100 fly, second 50 breast. 18 & over male division: Dalton Molnar - third 50 fly; second 100 breast, second 100 fly, fourth 50 free, second 50 breast.
Gladmar Braves bring home gold medals
The Gladmar Braves went into their pool at the U13AA Tier 6 provincials, as an undefeated team and came away with gold medals. Provincials took place from July 25-27 at Geoff Hughes Park in Saskatoon.
In the semi finals, against the Saskatoon Cannon Blue Jays, the Braves
were down 4-6 until Jax Fellner came to bat in the fifth inning and hit an over the fence grand slam securing the 10-6 win. In the finals, Gladmar played the undefeated Saskatoon Royals 64’s, walking away as provincial champs with a convincing 12-2 win.
Rick Hallberg with his most recent provincial tournament trophy.
Photo courtesy Golf Saskatchewan
The Gladmar Braves won the U13 AA Tier 6 provincials. Pictured back row, l-r: Head Coach Mike Floer, Shane Anderson, Kordell Morrison, Jax Fellner, Eli Beres, Owen Abtosway, Ayson Young, coach Jason Vermeulen, coach Jana Floer and Rylan Bourassa. In the front row: Dax Floer, Tanner Vermeulen, Jett Ridgway and Jace Benaschak.
Woodlawn’s horse race golf showdown was one to remember
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The annual Dave Price Memorial Horse Race, held Aug. 4 at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course, proved to be one to remember, and not just for a dramatic finish.
Carson Harcourt won the annual event, defeating Landon Emberley in the sixth playoff hole. The horse race featured the 12 golfers from the men’s championship flight at Woodlawn’s FrameTech Classic in an elimination event on the course’s back nine. Hundreds of people turned out to watch.
The horse race is named in memory of Price, who loved watching the horse race each year. Members of the Price family made a presentation to all of the golfers entered, and then in an emotional ceremony on the 14th hole, they presented a cheque for $10,000 to the junior golf program
Wheeler wins fourth straight women’s title
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Paige Wheeler continues to reign atop the women’s division at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Club’s FrameTech Classic.
Wheeler captured the women’s championship flight for the fourth consecutive year. She had an 82 in the first round Aug. 2, and shot an 83 in the second the following day to finish with a two-round
score of 165.
Berndette Wright was second with a two-round total of 172 (85-87). Joyce Kuchinka (91-88) and Rebecca Fedyk (89-90) were tied for third at 179, and Kuchinka took third on a count-back.
Taylor Gallais won the first fight with a two-round total of 191 (96-95).
A total of 14 golfers were entered in the women’s division.
The second round is complete in the men’s and the senior men’s division as well. Carson Harcourt of Kipling has a two-stroke lead over Nolan Rohatyn in the men’s championship flight. Harcourt shot a 67 in each of the first two rounds to sit at 10-under-par 134, while Rohatyn is at 136 (69-67).
Shawn McNall (68-71, 139) is third and Jason Klemenz (71-70, 141) is
fourth.
Ron Swan (69-72, 141) has the lead in the senior men’s division at 3-underpar, one stroke ahead of Rick Hallberg (72-70, 142), who has won the senior men’s competition the past four years.
The men’s divisions are three-day tournaments.
A total of 124 golfers are entered this year between the three different division.
at Woodlawn in memory of Dave.
His son Tyson thanked everyone who came out for the horse race.
“Everybody here, coming to support and watch the golfers and the great golf, it’s the best thing ever and it’s the best thing for me,” said Tyson.
Since he was a child, Tyson dreamed of being in the horse race. He loves to see everybody come together, mingle, watch the golf and have a good time.
He added the Price family has received so much support from the club, and in particular, from head pro Amanda Minchin, who battled cancer this year but was at the horse race and at the Woodlawn Classic. He led a toast to Minchin for all she has done for the course and for the Price family.
When Tyson was growing up, the junior golf program was a big part of his life.
“We want to make a donation to the junior golf program on behalf of my dad, because he loved it, he loved supporting it and he wanted everyone to get out. I know it’s tough for some people to get out,” said Tyson, before leading a toast to his father.
In the horse race, the two golfers with the highest scores on each of the 10th and 11th holes were eliminated, bringing the field down to eight. Then one golfer was knocked out on each subsequent hole. Harcourt and Emberley were remaining after the 17th hole. They were tied after their one-hole showdown on 18, so they went to the playoff.
The other golfers entered were Nolan Rohatyn, Shawn McNall, Jason Klemenz, Daryl Donovan, Brycen Odgers, Ryan Stovin, Mark Spencer, Dallas Lequyer, Brett Blackstock and Dustin Stepp.
Upcoming book will celebrate cherished doctor’s life and legacy
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
A new book on the life and service of Dr. William Graham Mainprize serves as a companion for the new documentary on the beloved Midale physician.
Remembering Mainprize:The Legacy of a Country Doctor, his People and his Park by Mary Lou Rosengren is expected to be released in the fall. But there has been excitement for the book already, due to the premiere in Midale of the new Mainprize documentary held on the Saskatchewan Day long weekend.
Rosengren said the idea for the book started when Jack Hilkewich, a co-producer and the director of the Mainprize documentary, reached out to her in the fall of 2022 to say he always wanted to have a book to go with the film. He wanted to know if Rosengren would be interested in putting the book together.
She had to do some research, but much of her time was spent compiling details, thanks to transcripts from the 77 people he inter-
viewed.
“First, I had to go through all of the transcripts and pull out what I felt was the theme of what I wanted to write about, and then save all those and put them together,” she said in an interview with SaskToday. “It came together pretty clear in my mind what I wanted.”
Some of Hilkewich’s interviews were 20-30 minutes long and included information on the subjects’ roots, their reasons for settling in the Midale area and their relationship to Mainprize. Those involved with the documentary also wanted to know about their remembrances of the old Dr. Mainprize Park, which was named after the physician and which he took ownership of, and the new Mainprize Regional Park.
“It brought back a lot of memories for me, because I came to Midale when I was 15, so I was very familiar with the old park,” said Rosengren.
Love letter to Doc and to his people Rosengren recalled that Hilkewich said the docu-
mentary was a “love letter to Doc and to his people, the people he served for over 50 years.” It’s also a tribute to having a sense of place, connections to other people, the importance of community and how Mainprize served the Midale area for so long.
Mainprize came to the community in 1911 and continued his practice into the 1970s.
“Thinking that Doc came to Midale when he was 22 years old, I believe, in 1911, things were vastly different back then. It’s quite a story, actually, so I tried to tie it together, to tie all those themes together, and then pulled pieces from all those interviews.”
The people who were interviewed play a central role in the book, she said. Rosengren said there will also be many photos supplied by the people Hilkewich filmed. “They brought their photo albums and they went through them. He kept any that were pertinent. I think a lot of them are going to be in the documentary, too,” said Rosengren.
She added she was look-
ing forward to watching the Mainprize documentary during its debut, and she said she was curious to see how it aligned with the book.
Mainprize died shortly before Rosengren moved to Midale, so she never had the opportunity to meet him. But she heard a lot about him and knew he had a “larger than life” presence in the community, since he delivered over 5,000 babies during his decades-long practice, and most of the people she met in Midale had some form of a connection to him.
“Of course, I spent a lot of time down at Mainprize park. So, I don’t think I understood the significance of it until I got older,” said Rosengren. She believes she has a greater appreciation for him, the people back then and what they did to make sure he reached his appointments.
Community supported their doctor
“This man worked 24 hours a day, seven days a week, through winter, summer, blizzards. They didn’t have power … and he invented his own vehicles to
get him to where he needed to go. I’m in awe of what they accomplished, and realized if it wasn’t for the community – and he served many communities in this area – but without the support of the people, it wouldn’t have happened and he wouldn’t have stayed,” said Rosengren. Now it’s hard for a community to keep a physician for more than two years, she said.
The interviews also brought forward a lot of new information for her. Rosengren said she learned that in Mainprize’s first year, a female patient died while giving birth. It really shook the deeply religious physician, and he went into the U.S. for a few months to work on a farm with a plan to never return. “But the townspeople and the community came together and found him, and talked him into coming back,” she said.
As for the park, she’s more familiar with the new Mainprize park, but she believes it doesn’t have the same connection for people as the older one, which became quite apparent in the
interviews about how people were upset by the flooding of the old attraction.
“Anybody that’s in this area is definitely going to have a real appreciation for this, but I think even from a historical standpoint of Saskatchewan history, it’s an important story to tell. For those of us who are aware of Doc and know who Doc was, he was larger than life and a hero to people in this area, and that became very apparent in the interviews,” said Rosengren.
“There was never a bad word said about the man. He was gentle and had a lot of faith and very devoted to his calling as a physician. And smart. Very smart.” The documentary had its debut Aug. 2 at the Midale Central School. Further showings happened later that day and on Aug. 3. Anyone interested in purchasing a copy of the book can email mlrosengren@outlook.com. She will need a name, and a contact email or phone number of the purchaser. She will let them know when books are available.
Hannah Battersby, left, presented the championship trophy to Paige Wheeler.
A cheque presentation was made to the junior golf program. From left, Aaron Turnbull, Taunia Turnbull, Amanda Minchin, Tyson Price, Laureen Price and Mary Price. Photo courtesy of Taunia Turnbull
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Heritage Village Days returns to Weyburn with pioneer celebration
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
The Weyburn and Area Heritage Village will come alive with history and family fun during Heritage Village Days on Aug. 8-9 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The annual event is a celebration of prairie life, featuring live music, historical demonstrations, and activities for all ages.
“It’s mostly pioneer life and Weyburn history,”
said Paige Tenbult, communications co-ordinator for the City of Weyburn.
“It’s a hands on celebration of prairie life, fun for all ages.”
Attendees can enjoy performances by Eli Barsi, a poet, painter and singer from Kennedy, De Trickey Feet Dance Studio, Marley’s Dance Studio, Kelly Gill and the Hired Guns, and Lachlan Neville, a songwriter and performer
from Rocanville. Kids can participate in the Fun in the Sun Mobile Play Park, a scavenger hunt, and face painting courtesy of the Weyburn Arts Council.
Visitors will step back in time with interactive demonstrations, including rope making, blacksmithing, butter churning, and bread making in an outdoor oven. Additional highlights include fire truck rides, a steam engine display, and a printing
press demonstration.
The event stays true to its roots, mirroring past events with its focus on pioneer life and Weyburn’s rich history. While the Wheat Festival, which once included Heritage Village activities, is no longer held, the City of Weyburn and the Heritage Village volunteer board continue the tradition with this engaging community gathering.
Free summer fitness classes were offered students from Grade 7 to Grade 12, registered at the Southeast Cornerstone Public School Division, through Foundational Fitness. This initiative was created in partnership with Mental Health Capacity Building, Olympia in Depth Performance and funded by Jumpstart. The classes were held every Thursday in July and while continue the same time during August. Instructor Lonee Cochrane guided them on how to exercise different muscles.
Government fulfills $2M commitment to Food Banks of Saskatchewan
As announced in the 2025-26 Provincial Budget, the Government of Saskatchewan is providing $1 million to Food Banks of Saskatchewan in August 2025 to distribute to agencies across the province.
“This funding fulfills our government’s commitment to provide $2 million over two years to help Saskatchewan families and food banks with rising food costs,” Social Services Minister Terry Jenson said. “By partnering with Food Banks of Saskatchewan once again this year, we are providing additional support to communities across our province.”
The $2 million commitment was first announced in July 2024, with the first $1 million installment provided to Food Banks of Saskatchewan in August 2024. The Ministry of Social Services will work with Food Banks of Saskatchewan to distribute the second $1 million installment in August 2025 to agencies based on the population and average food bank usage of the communities they serve.
“Saskatchewan Food Banks are experiencing an unprecedented year of demand, making it increasingly difficult to stock adequate food supplies,” Food Banks of Saskatchewan Executive Director
Michael Kincade said. “The relentless rise in inflation is taking a toll on hunger and food insecurity, affecting not just low-income families but also those with higher incomes. As the need grows while donations dwindle, this support arrives at a vital moment for us to nourish our friends, neighbors, and loved ones.”
This investment is part of the affordability initiatives introduced in Saskatchewan’s 2025-26 Provincial Budget to benefit Saskatchewan people
and families, including:
• Increasing monthly income assistance benefits by two per cent for Saskatchewan Income Support (SIS) and Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) clients;
• Increasing the Personal Care Home Benefit by up to $1,000 per month, helping make the cost of living in a licensed personal care home more affordable for Saskatchewan seniors;
• Increasing the Saskatchewan Low-Income Tax Credit by five per cent annu-
ally for the next four years;
• Doubling the Active Families Benefit to make it more affordable for families to access children’s sports, arts, cultural and recreational activities; and
• Enhancing basic tax credits including the basic exemption, spousal, equivalent-to-spouse, seniors supplement and dependent child tax credits.
For more information about Food Banks of Saskatchewan, visit: www. foodbankssk.ca or contact your local food bank.
SaskMusic sponsors live performances and door prizes are provided by Prairie Sky Co-op and Higher Conscious Connections.
Heritage Days boosts the local economy, said Tenbult.
“It attracts both residents and visitors to our community, encouraging them to explore not only the Heritage Village but also nearby businesses, restaurants, and accommodations. The event creates opportunities for local performers to showcase their talents. By celebrating our local history in such an engaging way, we strengthen community pride and support the broader goal of positioning Weyburn as a vibrant destination for cultural tourism.”
Heritage Days kicks off on Aug. 8 with opening ceremonies starting at 11 a.m. Sheep herder Russell Roome will be on hand to do a demonstration.
Admission is free, though a bake sale, barbecue, and concessions will be available for purchase.
Parking is accessible in front of the Heritage gate off 10th Street and while the grounds are wheelchair friendly, some vintage buildings may pose accessibility challenges due to their historic design.
Performance schedule:
August 8
11 a.m.
Opening ceremonies
11:30 a.m.
Russell Roome sheep herding demonstration
1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Fits Mobile Play Park
1:30 p.m.
Eli Barsi
2:45 p.m.
De Tricky Feet Dance Studio August 9 11 a.m.
Ivy Ling 11 a.m.
Scavenger hunt (meet at office)
11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fits Mobile Play Park 12 noon
Marley’s Dance Studio 1 p.m.
Kelly Gill and the Hired Guns 4 p.m. Lachlan Neville
Topsoil moisture in SE area declines despite recent rain
Producers are hoping for continued rain throughout the region to help lessen the impact of the coming heat on their crop yields, aid hayland regrowth and improve their pasture lands currently supporting livestock.
Rainfall was mostly in the southeast part of the region this week. The Alida area received the highest amount at 46 mm while the Carnduff and Oxbow areas received 41 and 38 mm respectively. The Bienfait area received 33 mm. Most other areas within the region received smaller amounts or no rainfall over the past week.
Despite the precipitation received in the region, topsoil moisture conditions declined this week, according to the weekly crop report for the period of July 22 to 28. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 73 per cent adequate, 23 per cent short and four per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is rated as 69 per cent adequate, 26 per cent short and five per cent very short. Similarly, pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 69 per cent adequate, 27 per cent short and four per cent very short.
Crop conditions in the region have remained relatively steady since last reported.
Most of the cereal crops are rated to be in good to excellent condition, while flax and canola are mostly rated as fair to good and mustard as good to excellent. Pulse crops are rated as mostly good to excellent with some rated as fair.
Haying progressed throughout the region this past week with 80 per cent of the crop now cut and 58 per cent baled or put up as silage. Hay quality remains relatively high with a rating of five per cent excellent, 70 per cent good, 23 per cent fair and only two per cent poor. Operations have been slowed due to the recent rains, but some are moving on to a second cut where conditions allow.
Minor damage is also being reported from hail, gophers, grasshoppers, flea beetles, pea leaf weevil and aphids. Producers have or will be close to completing fungicide applications as the window for application has closed for many crops.
As producers prepare for harvest, they are reminded to take safety precautions and preventative fire measures when they can. The Farm Stress Line is available to provide support to producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.
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Club Come and Try rowing event hosted during Nickle Lake Days
Weyburn Rowing Club held their Come and Try on August 1 and 2. Individuals had the opportunity to try the sport on and off the water. This was possible to community grants.
The event was well attended by individuals from Weyburn, Estevan, Regina and Saskatoon. The club had different types of equipment available to try. There was an oarboard, erg machines, single coastal boat and a double coastal boat. Participants were able to try one or all of the pieces of equipment.
Sheila Leach said that it was well attended by individuals that want to know know more about the sport. Leach stated that participants came off the water with smiles on their faces. They would like to thank Nickle Lake Regional Park for allowing to be part of the Nickle Lake Days and the community for the grants. They appreciate the individuals from Regina and Saskatoon, who assisted with the coaching for the day.
Luba and her son, Max, tried out rowing equipment during a Come and Try rowing event hosted at Nickle Lake on August 1 and 2.
Photo Submitted
Two kayak crews explored Nickle Lake, after participating in a Paint and Paddle Night for the Weyburn Canoe and Kayak Club. From left, Kelly Kievits, Lauren Kater, Lisa Robertson and Jordyne Robertson.
