Humane Society requests supplies in 12 Days of Donations
The Weyburn Humane Society is currently posting a ’12 Days of Donations’ on their Facebook group that features essential supplies that are required at the shelter.
The animal shelter is dealing with a confirmed case of Parvo and their team is working around the clock to keep all animals safe. The most helpful thing is to avoid visiting the shelter, unless absolutely necessary. It is critical to keep traffic low so that their staff can focus on care, cleaning and containing the outbreak.
While the dog room is closed due to the Parvo confirmation, the cat adoption room at the animal shelter will reopen today, December 10.
Items already requested included: disposable gloves (December 1), paper towels (December 2), bleach (December 3), dish soap (December 4), laundry detergent (December 5), black or white garbage bags (December 6), toilet paper (December 7), cat collars (December 8) and mop pail detergent (December 9).
Today, December 10, dryer sheets will be requested. This will be followed by spray cleaners
with bleach on December 11 and litter deodorizer on December 12.
Anyone considering donating over the holiday season is encouraged to visit the Humane Society Facebook page for information on essential supplies that are most appreciated.
Those participating in the ’12 Days of Donations ‘can drop off items outside their front door, or take the items down to the Grub Shack and General Store in the Metro Mall.
Monetary donations can be another way to show support, by either dropping off cash or cheque at the shelter when they are open, or by e-transfer to weyburnhumanesociety@outlook. com. Donors are reminded to include their name, address and phone number to receive tax receipts for donations over $25.
Another donation option is to participant in the Brick By Brick Campaign for the new animal shelter. The price of each brick is $100 and includes a choice of inscription (up to 30 characters). The Humane Society will also prepare a personalized letter that can be presented to the recipient.
JAMS Christmas Day dinner marks 22nd year
The annual JAMS Christmas Day Dinner will once again bring the community together for the 22nd time. The community supper will be held at Knox Hall on Thursday, December 25 at 1 p.m.
The tradition began in 2003, when Sandy Johnson and her girls, facing their first Christmas after the loss of her husband, Daryl, chose to turn their grief into generosity. Wanting to make a new mem -
ory that Christmas, they opened their hearts, and their table, to others who might be feeling the same emptiness.
More than two decades later that single act of courage has become a cherished family and community tradition. Sandy, her second husband Joel, and her daughters Jen, Ali, and Mikki, along with their families, now carry on the dinner together each year. What started as one family’s
way of surviving Christmas has become a beautiful legacy of connection, compassion, and shared joy.
“The spirit of the day is simple but powerful: no one should have to be alone on Christmas,” said Johnson. “The dinner is especially meant for those who have lost a loved one, are separated from family, or find themselves without plans—whether that’s due to distance, hardship, or even children spending
the day with their in-laws. Everyone is welcome at the table.”
Guests are treated to a classic Christmas feast, including turkey, ham, potatoes, dressing, and all the traditional fixings, and followed by a delicious spread of various pies for dessert. “The meal is offered by donation for those who can afford it, and completely free for those who cannot, ensuring that finances are never a barrier to belonging.”
In keeping with the true spirit of togetherness, rides are available for anyone needing transportation to the hall. There will be no food deliveries, as the goal is to gather in one place to share the meal, the conversation, and the warmth that comes from being together. Those wishing to attend are asked to call or text Sandy at 306-861-2787 to let her know they’ll be joining. For anyone who feels moved to help offset the cost of food for this community dinner, donations can be sent by e-transfer to browner64@yahoo.ca.
Luxx, Athena and Ensley shared candy canes with Santa during a photo session at the Young Fellows Tree Lot on December 6.
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
The Sandy Spencer family is once again making plans for the annual JAMS Family Christmas Day Dinner. Archive Photo
COMMUNITY
Wheatland Centre hosts card games
A number of games and activities were recently held at the Wheatland Senior Centre.
In Spades on December 1, Rose Levesque placed first, Stan Hubick won second and Sherrill Taylor finished third.
During Trump Whist on December 1, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson took first, Jannette Tonn and Heather Carter placed second and Willa Mae Donald and Ruth Boren finished third.
In Kaiser on December 2, Alice Schneider and Lavine Stepp placed first, Jean Fahlman and Heather Carter took second place and Norma Kapusaniuk and Melba Bent finished third.
In Canasta on December 3, Ione Schnell won first,
Marlene Szczecinski placed second, Marion Louce took third, Marg Warnke came in fourth, Jean Knibbs placed fifth, and Chris Carter placed sixth.
In Thursday Crib on December 4, Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla won first, Marjorie McLeod and George McLeod placed second, and Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson finished third.
During Friday Contract Bridge on December 5, Lucie Nickel placed first, Bonnie Olvera took second and Dave Frayn finished third.
Friday board gamesfour persons played Crokinole and three played Scrabble. The cost for an afternoon of fun playing board games with friends is $5.
Janice, Barrie and Melissa Carson of the Grub Shack and General Store have opened a storefront at the Metro Centre, with a variety of tasty ice cream, specialty sodas and vendor displays.
Human Resources sector covers a
Submitted by Norm Park, Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
It is not just about hiring and deployment when it comes to the tricky art form of human resources in the South East Cornerstone Public School Division’s world.
Nathan Johnson, the superintendent of HR, was in the conference room at
the division’s head office in Weyburn on November 26, to point out the various avenues that are explored by the team he heads up. He directed his presentation to the board members attending their regular monthly afternoon open business session. The portfolio includes the hiring and staffing on various levels such as
teachers, facilities and transportation personnel, dealing with employee agreements, risk management and sundry projects that arrive at his desk on a regular basis plus occupational health and safety issues that may surface.
Johnson noted that the department supports 582 teachers and 689 support staff members who work in 35 schools and facilities.
The teaching arm of the complex system includes over 32 Response to intervention teachers (RTI), 39.43 FTE learning support educators and 24 com-
lot of
ground at SE Cornerstone
plexity teachers.
Add those to the list of 44 administrative assistants, 272 educational assistants, 83 caretakers and technicians, 156 bus drivers, 25 library technicians and 16 counsellors and you have a whole roster of interesting issues arriving on the desk daily.
During his presentation, Johnson noted there were two administration retirements to address in the upcoming months. He said an information night that reveals matters involving administrators is planned every two years and is very
popular.
He also reported that the Saskatchewan Association for Safe Workplaces has completed Year 3 of the three-year project and sights have now been set on a new 3-year program to solidify the ongoing plans.
“We will start the new cycle this year,” he said.
Johnson also spoke briefly about job applications that have already been received for the next academic year for upcoming openings, as well as supervisory roles and teacher representative discussion plans that rolled
out this past summer. Recruitment for key positions continues to include administration roles, French immersion instructors, practical and applied arts educators, substitute teachers and support staffers, bus drivers, learning support and complexity teachers as well as division office leadership positions. Current special projects on the agenda include administrator recruitment, selection and support programs and the safe workplace mandates along with accessibility planning that was addressed by the board.
Paramedics With Heart to host “Frosty Fest”
Weyburn families will have a new way to celebrate the holiday season as Weyburn Paramedics With Heart present Frosty Festa festive community event taking place on Sunday, December 14, from 1 to 6 p.m. at the Weyburn Legion.
Frosty Fest promises a
packed afternoon for children and families, including a visit with Santa, hot chocolate and cookie bar, and cookie decorating. A special “Letters to Santa” corner will also be available for children to write and send their holiday wishes.
The event will feature
carnival games, face painting, and appearances from beloved holiday characters including Buddy the Elf and that Christmas-stealing Green Guy, adding extra excitement to the day.
Horse and carriage rides will also be offered for an additional fee. Families can
reserve a time slot for up to four people for $30 by messaging organizers in advance to pre-book their ride.
Admission to Frosty Fest is $10 per child, with all proceeds supporting the ongoing community efforts of Weyburn Paramedics With Heart.
Photo Leslie Coulter/Weyburn Review
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
EDITORIAL
MY OUTLOOK - WHAT GOOD CAN COME
Shelley Luedtke SaskToday.ca
The question was an interesting one. A radio station asked listeners to respond to the query “Have you ever benefitted from rejection?” Benefitted? Really?
Most people have experienced it. Being picked last in gym class. Not being allowed at the ‘cool’ table at lunch. Being dumped by someone you thought was pretty special. It feels terrible. Who would be able to say the experience of rejection could possibly have resulted in a benefit?
There have been volumes of studies done looking at the physical and emotional impact of rejection, including being excluded from a group. An interesting one caught my eye involving money. A room full of students were either included or excluded to play a game on a random basis. Those who were excluded were then offered a sum of money to compensate for the exclusion. Those who were included saw the money
being offered but weren’t given the same offer. Researchers rated the reactions and found that payments did nothing to dampen the pain of exclusion. Additionally, it was not an enticement to those who had already been included. The sense of belonging was more important than cash.
Rejection is painful. It is emotional layers involving lack of acceptance and the feeling of being unwanted in a particular relationship or social situation. It hurts to be excluded or have someone indicate you won’t be part of their life any longer.
Physiologically, the brain’s response to social rejection activates the same regions that process pain signals. In other words, emotional pain can feel just as intense as physical pain. As one researcher put it, as far as the brain is concerned, a broken heart may not be so different from a broken arm.
The pain is so real it can affect our ability to sleep, eat and process information. It leaves us feeling inadequate, vulnerable and can even
Saskatchewan introduces Response to Illicit Drugs Act
The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced ‘The Response to Illicit Drugs Act’, a new Act that strengthens accountability for drug traffickers, enhances community safety, and provides government and individuals with tools to recover costs associated with the harms caused by illicit drug activity.
“We want to ensure that those who profit from the production and trafficking of deadly substances face meaningful consequences here in Saskatchewan,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. “This legislation gives government and individuals clear pathways to recover costs and seek damages for harms caused by drug offenders, while ensuring we continue supporting people living with addictions through record investments in treatment and recovery.”
The Act complements existing federal drug laws by creating provincial civil measures that target the significant impacts of trafficking, producing, importing and exporting highly addictive drugs found in Schedule I to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), while excluding simple possession.
Key provisions of the Act include:
• Creating a statutory right for the province and individuals harmed by drug offenders to pursue civil action and recover costs associated with illicit drug production and trafficking; and
• Allowing certain appointments, grants, or agreements made by the Government of Saskatchewan to be declared void if an individual or entity is convicted of certain Schedule I drug offences.
The Act builds on Saskatchewan’s broader strategy to enhance public safety and expand access to recovery services. The 2025-26 budget includes a record $624 million to enhance access to mental health and addictions services in Saskatchewan. This represents about 7.7 per cent of the total health budget. Saskatchewan continues to make progress toward adding 500 new addictions treatment spaces across the province, nearly 300 of which are already operational. The province has also committed $11.9 million for approximately 100 new municipal police officers and $2.5 million over three years for the Saskatchewan Police College.
OUT OF SUCH HURT?
cause us to question our self-worth. How can any of this possibly result in any benefit?
Well, we are told there are some positive things that can come out of the experience of being rejected. Perhaps not at the moment, but with the passage of time some helpful outcomes can occur.
Rejection fosters resilience. It can be a motivator. It causes self-reflection. It teaches persistence. It leads to greater empathy for others experiencing something similar. It can also provide valuable new perspectives on difficult situations. Although it may sound rather callous, one researcher said that instead of seeing shame about rejection as a discouraging emotion, we need to see it as a sign that our brain is working exactly as it should be — and preparing us for a new step.
A few years ago I applied for a job that I believed fit me perfectly. The interview seemed to go well and the comments from the two in leadership were positive. I left feeling really good about the potential. I didn’t get the job.
Fast-forward a few months and a new opportunity presented itself. If I had gotten that other job I wouldn’t have been available for what was now in front of me. The heartache of being rejected was real. But what opened up as a result gave me wings and the
chance to do what I love — write. Go back even further. You see, there was this guy…
It was my last year of university and I had several classes in common with another sociology major who I thought was pretty great. But it was clear the interest was in one direction only. It hurt at that time, but looking back, it was such a good thing it happened. A few months later I met the man I would marry and I wouldn’t change that for anything.
Most people share similar experiences. The job they didn’t get, the promotion that never came about, the relationship that didn’t happen, the friend that turned away, the broken heart that took so long to heal, the absence of acknowledgement, and on it goes. Being excluded, overlooked or rejected hurts. But when we look back, we might see that something else took place — something that wouldn’t have had the opportunity to happen if that door hadn’t closed. As several authors and speakers have said, “Sometimes rejection is a blessing in disguise; it pushes you toward something better.”
None of us would choose to go through the anguish of rejection, but the things that wound us today may very well be setting us up for something wondrous tomorrow. That’s my outlook.
Extension announced for Early Learning and Child Care agreements
An extension was announced for the Canada-Saskatchewan Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement for another five years, starting in 2026-2027.
The announcement was made on November 28 by Education Minister Everett Hindley and Secretary of State (Rural Development) Buckley Belanger, on behalf of Canada’s Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister Responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency of Ontario, Patty Hajdu.
The newly negotiated extension reinforces Saskatchewan’s commitment to building an early learning and child care (ELCC) system guided by a shared vision with Canada focused on quality, affordability and access.
“Affordable child care is an economic tool that helps Saskatchewan grow,” said Hajdu. “When parents can find good, reliable child care, they can work, train, or build a business. That helps families earn more and helps the whole province stay competitive. In Saskatchewan, lower fees are saving families thousands of dollars and keeping more people in the workforce. We will keep working with partners to protect and expand these spaces so every child can learn,
and every family can plan for a strong future.”
“This agreement reflects the needs of Saskatchewan families and supports the flexibility of our child care landscape,” said Hindley. “Since 2021, we have created thousands of new spaces and reduced fees to $10 a day. We will continue to build on that tremendous progress to deliver affordable, highquality care and support the dedicated professionals who make it possible.”
Also extended are the Canada-Saskatchewan Bilateral Early Learning and Child Care Agreement for another five years, starting in 2026-2027, and the Infrastructure Fund for an additional year, until 2026-2027.
The extended agreements include expanded age eligibility so that children in child care who turn six while attending Kindergarten can continue to receive $10 a day until they complete the school year.
This multi-year federal investment of $1.6 billion will continue improving access and affordability to early learning programs and child care for children and families in Saskatchewan. Base funding for early learning and child care programs will increase by three per cent (via an escalator) per year for four years starting in 2027-2028. Saskatchewan has created more than 91 per cent of the 28,000 additional child
The WCS Senior Choir practiced for their winter concert, which was held December 10. Back row, l-r, Chrisleigh, Dave, Ben, Zaniyah, Sydney and Aaralea. Third row, l-r, Chris, Haroun, Rowan, Lily, Meisha and Morgyn. Second row, l-r, Timothy, Haylee Mackenzie and Alice. Front row, l-r, Nicole, Ellie, Rayne, Avryelle and Deaja.
care spaces targeted in the initial agreement with the federal government in 2021 and was the third province to reduce child care fees to $10 a day.
Saskatchewan is also committed to attracting, retaining and growing a strong and skilled workforce of Early Childhood Education (ECE) professionals. From April 2021 to September 2025, over $171 million in provincial and federal funding has supported a made-inSaskatchewan approach, including:
• Wage enhancements of up to $8.85 per hour for
certified ECEs working in regulated child care;
• Workforce enhancement grants for recruitment and retention initiatives;
• Tuition-free training and professional development for ECEs; and
• Bursaries and grants to support individuals to take training.
The extension of the Canada-Saskatchewan Early Learning and Child Care Agreements is an important step in Canada and Saskatchewan’s continued work together to ensure accessible, affordable and high-quality child care.
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
SPORTS
Red Wings split home games vs. North Stars
The Weyburn Red Wings split two home games against the Battlefords North Stars over the weekend. Weyburn still leads the SJHL Bunge division by one point lead over the Estevan Bruins.
The North Stars won 5-3 over the Red Wings on December 6. Battlefords scored a powerplay goal in the first period and added another goal in the second period, and early in the third before Weyburn answered with goals from Callas Pierce and Will Munro just 31 seconds apart.
Turner McIntyre and Josh Sale assisted on the Pierce goal, with Jonah Bierd assisting on the Munro goal. Battlefords regained their lead at the 15:34 mark.
The Red Wings kept on the heels of the North Stars when Sale scored a goal at 18:15, off assists by Aidan Mohan and Jaxson Doyle. The North Stars sealed the victory with an empty net goal just 11 seconds remaining in the game.
Preston Patenaude started in net for Wey -
burn, stopping 10 out of 12 shots. Nate Stevens was called in as a replacement in the second period, stopping 13 out of 14 shots.
The Red Wings took game two with a 5-2 win on December 7.
Weyburn started the first period with a power play goal scored by Luke Dekay, assisted by Josh Karman.
The North Stars responded with two goals in the second period. Weyburn tied the game when Munro scored at 11:08, assisted by Drew Molde and Bryson Carlyle.
The Red Wings dominated the third period with a power play goal by Dekay at 8:10, assisted by Simon Martin and Molde. Callas Pierce scored back-to-back unassisted empty net goals, to seal the win.
Stevens was in net for Weyburn, stopping 36 out of 38 shots.
The Red Wings will play on the road in Nipawin tonight, December 10 and will play twice in Warman on Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13.
Weyburn Red Wings players, Drew Molde and Turner McIntyre, held teddy bears that were collected for the Salvation Army, during the recent annual Teddy Bear Toss.
Gold Wings drop road games to Saskatoon
The Weyburn U18 AAA Gold Wings lost twice to the Saskatoon Stars during road games held on December 6 and 7.
The Stars captured a 7-5 victory on December 6. Saskatoon started with a goal just 56 seconds into the game. Harper Danchilla replied 17 seconds later for Weyburn with an assist by Julia Durr. Saskatoon added two more goals to make the score 3-1 at the end of the first period.
In the second period, Weyburn’s Liv Peck scored the only goal of the
period, assisted by Presley Nimegeers, tightening the score to 3-2. Goals were back-andforth in the third period, as both teams were hoping to come out on top. Saskatoon scored at 15:12 and 10:42. Tristan Todosichuk scored for Weyburn at the 14:31 mark, with assists by Skyla McNichol and Chelsea Madsen. Madsen then scored a goal of her own at the 10:17 mark, assisted by McNichol. The Gold Wings tied the score when McNichol scored at the 7:15 mark, assisted by Julia Durr.
The Weyburn Wrestling Club hosted their annual Barber Motors Tournament at the Weyburn Comp Eagles gymnasium on December 6. They had 12 wrestlers compete, with 10 wrestlers winning medals.
Five athletes won first place in their weight category, including Conner Pocha in peewee male, Cassius Henning and Owen Pulfer in Novice, Hayz Thompson in freshie and Chris Dayaan in cadet/ juvenile male.
Saskatoon scored two goals in the last three minutes of action, one into an empty net, to take home the victory.
Tila Boyd was in net for the Gold Wings, stopping 36 out of 42 shots.
The Stars took game two on December 7 with a 4-2 victory. Saskatoon had another strong start with two goals. McNichol responded for Weyburn with assists by Callie Tomilin and Todosichuk in the first period.
Saskatoon scored an unassisted goal in the second period to add to
their lead. An early third period goal for Weyburn was scored by Danchilla, off assists by Durr and Anniston Nimegeers to bring the score to 3-2. The game stayed close until Saskatoon scored an empty net goal in the last 35 seconds of the period. Maci Patterson was in net for the Gold Wings, stopping 34 out of 37 shots. The Gold Wings hosted Regina on December 9 and will have two more games in December as they host Swift Current on Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, December 21.
Two athletes took second place in their weight category: Meagan Kerr in novice and Ephraim Henning in cadet/juvenile male. Three athletes placed third in their weight category: Griffin Weikum in freshie, Jep Furgason in bantam male and Raeford Pirlot in freshie. The Wrestling Club will be attending the Regina Ascendants Wrestling Club’s tournament on January 10, 2026. They are also preparing for a Winnipeg tournament to be held in January.
Photo courtesy Highway 39 Photography
Calder readied his rock at a Junior Bonspiel held at the Weyburn Curling Rink on December 6.
Olympia In Depth Performance powerlifting athlete, Charlene Cossar of Weyburn, attended the IPF Open Equipped World Championships in Romania from November 10-16, with coach Ryan Fowler. Charlene competed in the equipped powerlifting division 76 kg open class, with the following results, placing eighth overall. Her results were: squat - 205 kg, bench115 kg and deadlift - 205 kg, for a total of 525 kg.
Senior WCS basketball boys and girls teams busy with tournaments
The WCS senior girls and boys basketball teams attended a tournament in Swift Current on December 5 and 6. For the girls, this was their third tournament of the year. Weyburn faced Estevan first and like true form between the two programs, a physical and intense game to start the tournament. WCS had a narrow lead at half 31-30 and the second half would see many lead changes but in the end, the Elecs came out on top with a narrow 50-49 victory.
The girls lost to the host, Swift Current Ardens, in
their next game, who are probably the top ranked team in their category. They faced Yorkton Regional to close out the tournament in the last game. The Eagles and Raiders kept it tight until the third quarter where the Eagles went on a run and maintained the difference for a 47-33 victory.
The senior boys played their first game against the host Swift Current Colts in front of the school crowd for their first game of the year. Weyburn showed promise for the season but came up short in the end. Next, they played Yorkton Regional and mounted a
fourth quarter comeback to tie the game in the late stages. Yorkton would squeak past with the final basket handing the boys their second loss of the event. WCS got into the win column when they faced Shounavon as the scoring came alive and the boys cruised to their first victory of the season.
The WCS senior girls will be hosting their annual “Christmas giving tree” tournament on December 12 and December 13. The girls play their first game at 3:45 p.m. in the Eagle gym on Friday. There will be an entry fee at the door of $5
per day or $7 for the weekend, They are also encouraging spectators to donate food and winter clothing items to our local food bank for the holiday season in lieu of a cash entry.
The SevenStars Energy Projectwill bring many benefits to the Weyburn and Griffin region.
• 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
Photo Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
25122MM2
Local firefighters and RCMP collect toys in annual drive
SaskToday staff
Emergency vehicles were out December 6 at the Canadian Tire in Estevan, but it wasn’t due to a fire.
The annual toy drive for the Estevan Fire Rescue Service and the Estevan RCMP happened that day. In an email, Estevan Fire Chief Rick Davies said that in speaking to members involved, they did not have a total number of toys collected.
The Estevan Community Hamper Association’s Angel Tree project.said three pick-up trucks and a police cruiser’s box were filled with toys.
“The Estevan Fire Rescue and Estevan Firefighters Association would like to offer a big thank
you to all in the community and surrounding area who may have donated to supporting the toy drive,” Davies said in the email.
In other recent fire department news, on December 3, the Estevan Fire Rescue was dispatched to a two-vehicle collision along the Highway 39 truck bypass. Crews responded and determined the incident was minor in nature.
The EFRS’s assistance not required. The EFRS said no injuries or damages were reported from the incident.
The following day, Estevan Fire Rescue members were dispatched for a residential fire alarm in the northeast area. Crews
Oxbow moves ahead with replacement of aging ice plant
Paul Kimball, Freelance Reporter
Decades ago, Oxbow’s rec board installed a new state-of-the-art icemaking plant in the arena. At the time, they were told to expect 25 years out of it.
That was 39 years ago — and the plant is more than showing its age.
In late 2023, it became clear that action was needed. The recreation board’s Chase the Ace game jumpstarted the project by raising $100,000 toward the new ice plant. A grant application was submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Pathway Study to help cover the cost of the required feasibility study.
The portfolio of the study consisted of the arena, the local swimming pool, the water plant and Memorial Hall.
It was determined, to no one’s surprise, that one of the recommendations of the study was to replace the freon-based icemaking plant with an ammonia-
responded and determined the alarm was due to a cooking incident. EFRS assistance was not needed.
The EFRS was dispatched December 7 for a commercial fire alarm in northeast Estevan.
Crews responded and investigated. They confirmed an emergency wasn’t occurring, as it was
a maintenance issue with the sprinkler system. Estevan Fire Rescue assistance was not needed.
based one. It would not be cheap, however. It would cost $950,000 to make that change.
Since the study, further grants have been applied for, sponsorships and donations have been sought out, and fundraising has occurred. By this past October, $710,000 had been raised — sufficient to get the project going.
As a result, the new icemaking plant has been ordered, and the town is doing everything possible to safely get one more year out of the old system. This includes shortening the ice season to lessen the workload on the aging plant and staggering the curling and skating ice production.
But come spring, when the arena is cleared out after another hockey season, the old plant will come out as well. The new one will be installed — all in time for a normal 2026-27 winter of ice fun.
Fundraising and grant applications are continuing in a goal to raise the remaining $240,000.
Elvis tribute artist helped raise funds for Broken Arrow Youth Ranch
Stephanie Zoer Freelance Reporter
Arcola Prairie Place
Hall had a special guest on November 22, and fans cheered like in the old days. Rory Allen, an Elvis Presley tribute artist, came to Arcola to entertain a crowd of 75 people through the Broken Arrow Youth Ranch as a fundraiser.
Allen is from Regina and has performed all over the world. His voice is so similar to Elvis that if a person closed their
eyes, they might think Elvis was on stage.
The Broken Arrow Youth Ranch is located near Wood Mountain, south of Assiniboia. Established in 2008, it has helped young people and their families ever since.
Lara Moroz is the administrator director, and she said the organization does not receive government funding and relies entirely on fundraisers and donations to keep the program going.
They have children and youth from families who come and live on the ranch for extended periods to help them heal and grow. The 10-bedroom care home is where the kids stay under the guidance of ranch parents and support staff.
Issues can be different for each child, whether peer pressure or negative choices made in life. The ranch offers them guidance and the opportunity to learn chores and other
skills.
They have helped 50 students over the years from Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Nunavut. Moroz said that friends of the family or the family themselves usually reach out to the program. They fill out an application and later a video chat is done. Through this, they decide if the ranch is a good fit.
The ranch is not limited to Saskatchewan. Over the years families have reached out from as far away as Ontario and Quebec.
Recently, they moved a character home onto the property. It is their hope to expand the ministry to also work with teen moms and their babies. Presently, they only take in girls.
The fundraiser in Arcola was to help with ranch expenses. The evening began with a meal catered by Weir’s Catering. Moroz said the meal of smoked beef, marinated chicken, salads and two desserts was excellent.
It was Rory Allen’s turn to turn up the heat and entertain the crowd. He sang many of the hits well known to Elvis fans throughout the night. He even serenaded a young lady in the crowd. Although the crowd was small, everyone had a good time.
A toy drive was held at Canadian Tire on December 6.
Photo courtesy of Kyle Luc
Rory Allen has been entertaining crowds for a long time by paying tribute to the late Elvis Presley.
Photo Courtesy Chrystal Nichole Pelletier
Downtown Estevan decorated with Christmas trees
The Garden Park on Fourth in downtown Estevan is all decked out for Christmas, thanks to the efforts of an Estevan woman and other volunteers.
Gale Tytlandsvik said the decorating wrapped up December 5 after seven full days of work for her and a team of volunteers.
“My fingers are raw,” she said with a laugh. “We have to wire each ornament on, not just hang it, we have to wire it, because they’ll blow off. That’s a huge job, bigger than when you do your tree inside, because you have to
wire every ornament.”
She noted three new Christmas trees were added this year, bringing the total to 15 in the park, which is located in the 1100-block of Fourth Street. Tytlandsvik’s daughter donated a new white tree and Tytlandsvik supplied the candy ornaments. Also new is a green and white tree, replacing one with similar colours that she said was beat up and rusted through.
A gold and purple tree has been added as well with donated ornaments.
“We just did a lot of work
Hospital foundation shares teas with seniors
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation delivered Christmas cheer and socializing to seniors and others through its annual tea parties.
The teas started November 26 at Estevan Diversified Services (EDS) and wrapped up December 5. Other stops included the Estevan Regional Nursing Home, the St. Joseph’s Hospital special care home, Midale’s Mainprize Manor facility, Hill View Manor and Creighton Lodge.
Hospital Foundation executive director Lori Gervais said the teas used to be part of the Festival of Trees. But due to the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors, the foundation now goes out to care homes.
“We started with diversified ... they’re always our kick off because they are a dance party like no
other, so we started out there. And we bring in some sponsored gifts and some dainties, and we have tea, and just bring them some music and celebrate Christmas,” said Gervais, who noted EDS’s participants love to dance.
The facilities are pleased to have Christmas music provided by local volunteers, along with refreshments, snacks and sponsored gifts from people in the community.
“It’s nice to show them that they’re appreciated and that we think about them at Christmas,” said Gervais.
The festival of trees is a great way to bring awareness to the foundation each year, to thank the community for all it does, and have something for seniors through the tea.
“By us going to them, we ensure that everybody gets to participate,” said Gervais.
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF TECUMSEH NO 65 PUBLIC TENDER NOTICE LEASE OF MINES AND MINERALS
The RM of Tecumseh No 65 is accepting tenders for the Lease of the following mines and minerals located in the RM of Tecumseh No 65: All mines and minerals within, upon or under the South West Quarter of Section 9, Township 7, Range 9, West of the Second Meridian, SK, below the base of the Midale Formation
Conditions of Lease:
The lease form shall be the CAPL 1988 lease or 1991 lease subject to the standard deletions and amendments of the McGeough Zepick Law Office in Estevan, SK.
Copies of the amendments and deletions may be requested by email at the following email: ATTENTION: Susan Gervais sgervais@mzlaw.ca Tender Submission: Tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope or by email, clearly marked with “Mines and Minerals Lease Tender” and must be received by the McGeough Zepick Law Office at the following address and email on or before January 10, 2026: McGeough Zepick Law Office 1222-5th Street
Estevan, SK S4A 0Z6 sgervais@mzlaw.ca
The RM of Tecumseh No 65 reserves the right to reject all bids and to accept any bid it considers advantageous The highest bid may not necessarily be accepted.
Bids will be received by the McGeough Zepick Law Office on behalf of the RM of Tecumseh No 65 on or before January 10, 2026 at 5:00pm at: McGeough Zepick Law Office 1222-5th Street
Estevan, SK S4A 0Z6
ATTENTION: SUSAN GERVAIS sgervais@mzlaw.ca
in there with what we had for the most part,” said Tytlandsvik.
She noted that when Dolly Sue’s Marketplace in Estevan closed, the business donated a lot of ornaments, so Tytlandsvik didn’t have to issue a call for decorations this year. Tytlandsvik said they didn’t have the chance to use the ornaments last year because most of the trees were already finished, but the items were incorporated this year.
“They’re quite beautiful, so that was pretty exciting,”
said Tytlandsvik. Candy canes at the park are for people to take.
The park does not have electricity so lights are not on the trees, and she said she wouldn’t need them anyways because the neighbouring SaskTel building has security lights and “they’re quite bright”, said Tytlandsvik.
“Even if I had lights, they wouldn’t show up, because of their lights,” said Tytlandsvik, adding the park has at least 1,000 ornaments.
The park also compli-
ments the lights and decorations that are now set up in the 1100 and 1200 blocks of Fourth Street, she said.
“Yesterday [December 4] was beautiful,” she said. “I was outside yesterday from 2 until about 6 working in the garden [park] outside.”
Tytlandsvik said she had a good crew of volunteers once again this year to help the park look good for Christmas. Four people installed the trees by lifting them above the planters and sliding them down on and wiring them to rebar. She
didn’t have as many volunteers for decorating this year, but a few people still helped out at various stages.
“It doesn’t seem like a lot, but they get beat up when you move them ... up and down the stairs, and the wind beats them up, and ornaments break and fall off.”
While she will continue to dedicate hours to the park in the summer months, Tytlandsvik said this will be her last year decorating the park before Christmas. She hopes someone else will step forward for Christmas next year.
The Garden Park on Fourth Street in Estevan is well-decorated for Christmas.
Make This Christmas Merrier With More Money
We are seeking permanent or relief newspaper carriers for the
ROUTE 8 - 120 PAPERS
Mergens St., Lorraine St., Water St., Government Rd., Hill Ave., Coteau Ave.
ROUTE 9A - 155 PAPERS
Government Rd., 1st St., 2nd St., Coteau Ave., Bison Ave., Foster St
ROUTE 12B - 90 PAPERS
9th St., 10th St., 11th St., McGillivray Bay, Hartney Ave., 1st Ave NE
ROUTE 13A - 80 PAPERS Park Ave., 14th St., McKinnon Bay, Coteau Ave.
Apply even if you can only commit to a week or two!
courtesy of The Garden on Fourth Facebook page
12
Larry Makelki
It is with heavy hearts and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Larry Makelki on Friday, November 14, 2025 Larry was born in Weyburn, SK on October 19, 1946 to Mark and Ruth Makelki and was raised in Goodwater, SK with his five siblings Throughout his 79 years Larry always proved himself to be a kind and steady presence As a young man Larry was a hard worker and enjoyed sports He played hockey and baseball and was a force on both the rink and baseball diamond When his sister Irene was born a girl, he was upset!
After three boys in a row, the family had been on track for a built-in baseball team He took his strong work ethic into the world where he worked various jobs on farms, in construction and in heavy machinery Eventually, he began working in the oilfield and it wasn t long before that he began working for Cardwell Supply in Weyburn In October 1969, he married Helen McAlpine They moved to Swift Current and then to Edmonton once Larry began working for Axelson Canada Before long, they moved again This time to Lloydminster where Larry and Ron Christie started BMW PC Pump and BMW Monarch These were just a few of the many business ventures Larry was involved in during his life BMW quickly grew its reputation as the best and largest supply store chain in the country Larry and Helen raised three children; Carrie Shana and Ryan In October 1981, they bought a small acreage outside Lloydminster Larry has always loved his horses, including team roping, sleigh rides and of course, The Lea Park Rodeo He was always willing to lend a hand to neighbors, especially during branding season The family spent summers at their cabin at Loon Lake where they enjoyed boating, fishing, riding Sea-Doo s and relaxing at the beach In 1998, Larry sold the companies to Weatherford and found something new to occupy himself, the Edmonton Oilers The hockey team was on the brink of being sold and moved to a new market but Larry and a group of investors intervened to keep the team in the city Not just an investor but a fan, Larry enjoyed many games from the Skybox in Rexall Place and had a whole room devoted to Oilers memorabilia that included a favorite framed Gretzky jersey In December 2008 Larry married Katie Clarke in Cabo San Lucas Mexico This is also where they spent many winters soaking in the warm weather watching whales fishing golfing and enjoying the company of many visiting friends and family members In that same year they built a new cabin at Loon Lake and started the build on their house south of Blackfoot Larry is survived by: his partner, Katie; daughters, Trinity Dorsey (Troy), Carrie and Shana; son, Ryan; grandchildren, Kayla (Matt), Dayle, Allix, Ryker, Dylan and Devin; great-grandchildren, Rayna and Jackson; Katie’s children and grandchildren; brother, Lee Makelki (Pam); sisters, Jeanette Boyce, Irene Von Sprecken (Gary) and Sherry Brucks; sister-in-law, Terri Makelki; Janet Benson, who worked on the ranch for 25 years; his sidekick, Snickers; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless wonderful friends Larry was predeceased by: his parents, Mark and Ruth Makelki; brother, Keith Makelki (May 2021); brother-in-law Neal Boyce (March 2021); and many cousins and friends Larry will be remembered for making others feel seen valued and welcomed He had a quiet strength gentle heart and a big laugh His memory stays with us forever especially in a drink raised to friends and family a great goal or home run or with reins in hand and boots in stirrups We are grateful for every moment and know his kind heart lives on in countless lives he touched A Celebration of Life will be conducted from Alberta Building, Lloydminster, SK on Monday, December 15, 2025 at 1:00 P M If you are unable to attend in person, you may view the live streaming of the service posted on McCaw Funeral Service website under Larry's obituary McCaw Funeral Service Ltd , of Lloydminster, Alberta administered the funeral arrangements Card of Thanks The Makelki family would like to thank all those who showed their support
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Card of Thanks
Sincere thanks to all that supported the CWL Christmas Raffle and to the CWL ladies and the Knights of Columbus men for helping to make this a great event Thank you to all the businesses who sponsored the raffle with their generous donations Winners of the raffle: - Shirley Mondor$1,000 00 cheque from Barber Motors; Rosaline Levesque - $500 00 gift card from Weyburn Dodge; Janet Schiller - $300 00 gift card from anonymous donor to York Jewellers; Ester Sturgeon - $300 00 gift card from Prairie Sky Co-op; Deana Mainil - $200 00 gift card from RCWC; Doreen Guilleman - $100 00 gift card from Maurer ’s Meats ST VINCENT DE PAUL CWL
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LEGAL NOTICE- TAKE NOTICE T AT; any one with a pr ior equal or super ior r ight interest CONDUCT treat y or Convention in/to/for/of the NAME and proper t y of: NIKOLAI MARTENS and/or MARTENS, NIKOLAI Estate, or : MARGARET E MARTENS and/or MARTENS, MARGARET E Estate, or NICK LUK AS MARTENS and/or MARTENS, NICK LUK AS Estate, or JAN JONAS MARTENS and/or MARTENS, JAN JONAS Estate; in any st yle or var iation thereof capable to confuse, suspend or clog said NAME, Title and/or Estate is hereby WARRANTED to present their said claim to Witness: Dmitr i, Fast c/o: 10913 Mar tin RD South, Bur ns Lake Br itish Columbia, V0J1E2 before expiration of t went y-eight (28) days of the first publishing of this Notice
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Book classifieds in Weyburn Review/ Weyburn This Week by calling 306-842-7487. Please recycle this
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!
Christmas Market at Signal Hill.
Variations choir at the library’s Jingle and Mingle.
