Minimum wage in Saskatchewan will increase to $15.35 per hour, starting effective on October 1.
Saskatchewan’s minimum wage is calculated using an indexation formula, which gives equal weight to changes to the Consumer Price Index and Average Hourly Wage for Saskatchewan.
“By raising the minimum wage, we are continuing to support workers and deliver on our commitment to affordability,” said Deputy Premier and Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Jim Reiter.
“Saskatchewan’s low personal tax rates continue to make our province a great place to live, work and raise a family.”
In 2022, the Government of Saskatchewan indicated it would make incremental increases to minimum wage which resulted in a 27 per cent increase from $11.81 per hour to $15 per hour by 2024. With that commitment having been met, the indexation formula is again in place. In addition to indexation, the 2025-26 Budget delivered on 13 affordability commitments which included reducing income taxes for every resident, family and small business in our province.
“We know the benefits that increasing the minimum wage will have for employees, but we also want to create a balance for employers,” said Reiter. “Over the next few months, we will be working together with the Chambers of Commerce and other key stakeholders to understand the implications of increasing minimum wage for the business community and the impact on Saskatchewan’s economy.”
COMMUNITY
Ministerial Message: Holidays with God
Submitted by Cam Weber
Linda
I have been thinking about holiday times this summer, and am l including God time in my summer? God created the earth and everything in it in six days Gen.1:31 and rested the seventh day. He than instructed mankind to; six days shalt thou labour and do all your work and the seventh is a day of rest unto the Lord. Exodus 20: 8-11.
Our God given gifts thrive, when we embrace rest and contemplation. As we quiet our hearts before the Lord, he cleanses our perspectives and fills us with fresh thoughts and creativity. He restores our minds and reorders our soul in divine peacefulness.
Over the years l have learned the necessity of stepping back and having quiet time to be drawn into the presence of God. We need to be intentional about cultivating time to reflect and rejuvenate our spirits. Spending time in God’s presence is the secret to deepening our re -
lationship with Him, and wait for him to speak. This brings to mind an old chorus I learned years age, but this is the senior’s edition. Jesus loves me, this l know, though my hair is white as snow. Though my sight is growing dim, still He bids me trust in Him. (Chorus) Yes, Jesus loves me… Yes, Jesus loves me…Yes Jesus loves me for the bible tells me so. Though my steps are oh so slow, With my hand in His l’ll go, On through life, let come what may, He’ll be there to lead the way. (Chorus) Though I am no longer young, I have much which He’s begun. Let me serve Christ with a smile, Go with others the extra mile. (Chorus) When the nights are dark and long, ln my heart He puts a song. Telling me in words so clear, “Have no fear, for l am near.” (Chorus) When my work on earth is done, And life’s victories! Have been won. He will take me home above, Then I”ll understand His love. (Chorus) I love Jesus, does
He know? Have l ever told Him so? Jesus loves to hear me say, That I love Him every day. (Chorus)
God longs for a relationship with us as humans that is why we were created the way we were. Here are a few recommendations I have put into my holiday (summer times). Create breathing space and restorative rest in your schedule purposefully.
Don’t crowd your holidays with activities, keep some spaces open on the schedule for God. Plan time for quiet reflection or it won’t happen, believe me, our enemy the evil one will do every thing he can to stop this from happening. Plan to go to church, bible camp on your holidays, it is a good to experience different forms of worship and services. Rest from busyness and remember all God has blessed you with and has done on your behalf.
Sort out your mental clutter. Free yourself from the opinions of others, which keep your mind from resting. Ask God to tear down mental strongholds that keep you from walking in the plans God has for your life. Loose the gift of forgiveness to those who have been critical or domineering in your life. Then breathe in deeply and exhale asking God to take the unforgiveness and fill you with His Holy Spirit.
This is Pastor Cameron Weber saying incorporate God time into your summer plans and you will not only be refreshed physically but mentally as well. Often times when we come home from holidays, we need rest and quiet time just to recover from our holidays. I would encourage you to try incorporate God into your summer plans and see the difference He can make!!
Wheatland Centre games & activities
The Weyburn Wheatland Senior Centre held many games during the week of July 7 to 12.
In Spades on July 7, Janet Van Winkoop placed first, Coral Schindel won second and Marge Schultz finished third.
In Kaiser on July 8, Kim Bent and Melba Bent won first, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson placed second and Lavine Stepp and Alice Schneider placed third.
In Canasta on July 9, Sheila Wendel won first, Brenda Paul and Pat Peterson tied for second, Lavine Stepp took third, Coral Schindel placed fourth, and Janet Van Winkoop finished fifth.
During Hi-Low Whist on July 9, Elaine Franz and Jeanne Molnar won first, Marj McLeod and Marge Schultz placed second, and
Cris Herlick and Phyllis Lindskog finished third.
In Thursday Crib on July 10, Joni McNaughton and Marlene Szczecinski won first, Della Schultz and Marg Schultz placed second, and Justin Paul and Brenda Paul finished third. In Friday Bridge on July 11, Mildred Sandiford won first, Millie Nimegeers placed second and Dave Frayn finished third.
In Friday Shuffleboard on July 11, first place was won by Mel Schindel and Jannette Tonn, second was earned by June Irvine and Janet Van Winkoop, and third was placed by Ron Frayn and Marj McLeod.
In Fun Cribbage on July 12, Sheila Greiner won first, Cheryl Vogel placed second, Jean Vogel placed third and Rose Levesque finished third.
garry dugan (seated), with granddaughter Kelsie druck, great grandson, beckett renas, and son, Paul Dugan.
Photo taken at gull lake, alberta during a family visit
EDITORIAL
FROM THE SIDELINES: THE TWO-PROVINCE CHECKLIST
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
Alberta vs. Saskatchewan, how’s it goin’ so far?
Actually, it’s a well-known fact Saskatchewan never challenges Alberta on any front, especially in the worlds of politics and business, and why would we?
We are two peas in a pod, with Alberta taking the upper part of the pod. Saskatchewanians have learned to accept that reality.
After all, Alberta is zeroing in on a population of six million. Saskatchewan got over the one million mark a few years ago. That’s for starters.
Alberta has two major cities, Edmonton, with a population of 1.59 million, and Calgary, with a population of 1.69 million. Saskatchewan has Regina at 236K and Saskatoon at 352K.
Alberta has Banff and Jasper national parks. We have Waskesiu. They have a mountain range. We have Qu’Appelle Valley. They have all kinds of four-lane highways. We have occasional passing lanes except for that Regina to Saskatoon run.
Alberta boasts of two NHL
franchises, two CFL teams, four major stadiums, one to be replaced soon with a new edifice. Saskatchewan has the Roughriders and Mosaic Stadium, and that other place in Saskatoon that is not quite big enough to attract A-list entertainers or events.
Alberta has lots of oil and natural gas. Saskatchewan has some oil and not a lot of natural gas.
Saskatchewan may grow more canola and mustard than Alberta, but Alberta has more cattle.
Alberta has a host of head offices. Saskatchewan has a habit of losing head offices.
The two provinces seem to be on the same page when it comes to politics, and Saskatchewan has to remain in the “me too” file when it comes to that topic as well. Both provinces have pretty well stuck to conservative, bending governments with occasional forays into democratic socialism, and then back to the original.
Alberta is now discussing, with some degree of seriousness, I understand, the possibility of cutting ties with the rest of Canada. Perhaps their government and Premier do wish to invite the possibility of becoming
Province expandes TMEI program to support mining sector growth
The Government of Saskatchewan is expanding the Targeted Mineral Exploration Incentive (TMEI) to include more earlystage exploration activities to support mining sector growth and investment.
Launched in 2018, the TMEI program provides financial assistance in the form of a grant to exploration companies that undertake eligible drilling activities. The TMEI program is being expanded to cover a wider range of exploration activities, such as ground-based and borehole geophysical surveys and important pre-sampling tasks like core logging. These changes aim to increase program uptake and enable more exploration for critical and emerging minerals. Specifically, the changes are expected to improve the ability of smaller companies to raise private sector capital to undertake exploration activities.
“TMEI has been key to diversifying Saskatchewan’s mining sector by promoting drilling on hard rock mineral exploration projects,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “These changes will help us achieve our goals set out in Saskatchewan’s Critical Minerals Strategy, specifically, increasing Saskatchewan’s share of Canadian mineral exploration spending to 15 per cent and doubling the number of critical minerals produced in Saskatchewan, all by 2030.”
By recognizing a broader scope of the
exploration process, this expansion is supporting new mineral discoveries and the diversification of our mining sector. With continuing advancements in helium, lithium, copper and zinc, and record production in uranium and potash, Saskatchewan is responding to growing global demand for critical minerals.
“Expanding TMEI funding to include additional generative, early-stage exploration activities will help identify more drill targets, attracting greater investor interest and capital to Saskatchewan,” Saskatchewan Mining Association President Pam Schwann said. “The collaborative partnership between government and industry exemplifies why Saskatchewan is a premier exploration and mining destination.”
In 2024-25, 27 exploration projects were approved for $1.9 million in TMEI funding with companies spending a total of $76.5 million on these projects. Since 2018, 96 projects have received $5.9 million in TMEI funding, resulting in 926 exploration drill holes and $172.5 million in total project expenditures.
Saskatchewan has 27 of the 34 critical minerals on Canada’s list and is the largest primary producer of critical minerals in Canada. Clear and stable supports like the TMEI program help build the resource sector and strengthen the provincial economy which benefits all Saskatchewan people.
a 51st state of the U.S.A. It’s hard to tell. I mean, they have to belong to some sort of pact or they’ll essentially drift to and from on misty flats.
So will Saskatchewan join them, looking for 52nd state status? Just because, well, just because that’s what we usually do? We tend to follow the Alberta script as the poor country cousin. If they join America, we may have no other options in our government’s eyes.
In the early 1900’s the brain trusts in the federal government that had settled on Ottawa as their choice for lording over the masses glanced askance at the unfolding of the western part of the country. B.C. was already in place, as was Manitoba, but there was still that huge tract of land, I think they called it Buffalo territory or vast wasteland or something of that ilk. But they still feared that vastness. They didn’t want a single provincial landmass that would supersede the breadth of Ontario, for sure. They were concerned that if this huge land mass was actually capable of producing something more than grass, it could pose a real threat to their balance of power.
So the big boss politicians that were in place then decided to carve out two provinces, and give them their titles at the same time (1905), and that’s how Saskatchewan got drawn up with those straight lines composed by some office worker in Ottawa who happened to have a pencil in his desk drawer when the idea of forging two provinces hit the floor for discussion. This way,
the two new provinces could be kept under control by both political and geographical means.
So here we are, decades later, growing more than grass, so Ottawa’s leaders back then had their fears verified. Now Alberta wants out, or so Danielle says. After all, Alberta sends billions of dollars to Ottawa and Ottawa sends those billions over to Quebec, so they can keep Quebec in the can, and it’s getting a little tiring. But Ottawa, i.e. Ontario, has the population, and in our democratic system, population counts when it comes to exercising power because it’s people who vote, not corporations or think tanks or social service agencies.
So Ontario, where there are lots and lots of people, gets to rule the roost by convincing a few scattered constituencies in other provinces that it’s all good and the equalization payments, courtesy of Alberta and to a lesser degree (of course) of Saskatchewan, will keep on coming as long as they (Quebec and a few others) continue to claim poverty, not prove it, just claim it, and it shall be bequeathed on to them.
Next week, we can maybe explore what the new world would look like in Alberta if it expressed desires to be the 51st state and whether Saskatchewan, the province with the straight boundary lines, might like to follow.
Elbows up, take the penalty and maybe still win the game? Or skate away and take the franchise into a new arena? Our two provinces still get to decide that scenario … I think.
Rural Ambassador Program supports women entrepreneurs
SaskToday Staff
Support of rural women entrepreneurs continues through the Rural Ambassador Program coordinated by Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan (WESK).
Funding support from Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) has been improved, ensuring a second cohort of regional ambassadors will serve as connection points for women entrepreneurs in rural communities across the province.
According to WESK, the Rural Ambassador Program is designed to close the gender entrepreneurship
gap by bringing support, resources and connection directly to where women live and work. In its first year, the program reached hundreds of women through local WESK Connect events, peer mentorship, tailored business advising and loans.
“Women entrepreneurs are driving change and building economic momentum in rural communities, but their access to resources often lags behind that of urban centres,” said Miriam Johnson, CEO of WESK.
“This program ensures that women outside major cities have the same op -
portunities to succeed, by meeting them where they are and connecting them to an inclusive, provincewide network of support.”
Each ambassador is a business owner herself, rooted in the rural community she serves. From agriculture to finance, health care to digital marketing, these leaders understand the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship in Saskatchewan’s smaller centres, WESK says. Over the next year, they will continue to help women business owners access WESK services, such as loans, learning and one-to-one
Dayton carefully carved a Teddy Bear out of a soap bar, by following a template created by the Weyburn Carvers Niche. Members of the Carvers Club worked with teens to teach carving skills, during this program held at the Weyburn Public Library.
advisory support, while fostering meaningful connections through events, local outreach, and peer mentorship.
“The strength of this
program lies in the real-life experience and leadership of our Rural Ambassadors,” added Johnson.
“They are role models who not only under-
2025 Quad Pulls
SPORTS
Weyburn Silver Seals, along with other swimmers, dove into the pool to compete in the 50m breaststroke, during a swim meet held at the Weyburn Leisure Centre on July 19. Weyburn swimmers included Oleksii Vlasenko at far left, and Topher Wilkinson, second from right.
Gord Hulbert makes history with perfect 100-6V at 1,000 yards
Sara Park SaskToday.ca
In an unprecedented feat of marksmanship, Gord Hulbert set a new Saskatchewan Provincial Rifle Association (SPRA) FTR range record at the North Star Range, achieving a perfect 100-6V score at 1,000 yards, the first-ever 20 perfect shot score at that distance in FTR competition.
During the competition, Hulbert showed nerves of steel. When asked how he stayed focused, he simply said, “I’m 81. I don’t get excited.”
The SPRA celebrated the milestone on social
media, saying, “For those who’ve shot at North Star range, you know how tough it is to pull off a score like that. Truly an inspiring performance and a reminder that precision and perseverance never age.”
Hulbert himself was humbled by the achievement. “Well, it’s never been done before. Kind of made my shooting career, I guess. It’s pretty cool.”
The biggest challenge?
The wind.
“You set your sights for what you think the wind is, and then as the wind changes, you keep changing your sights following the wind.”
How did he manage it?
“Lucky,” he chuckled.
Using a trusty .308, Hulbert’s decades of experience paid off. He began shooting in 1978 and maintains a disciplined routine.
“I practice quite a bit.
I’ve got a range at my farm.”
His advice to fellow shooters is, “Never give up.”
The Saskatchewan Provincial Rifle Association (SPRA) was created in 1885 at Prince Albert and as the Territorial Rifle Association in 1891 in Edmonton. In Nokomis the SPRA currently operates at the North Star Range, located six miles east of Nokomis.
Weyburn Wildlife Federation to host annual 3D Archery Shoot
Sara Parks
SaskToday.ca
The Weyburn Wildlife Federation is gearing up for its annual 3D Archery Shoot, set to take place on July 26 and 27. The event,
which began in 2013, attracts archery enthusiasts from across southern Saskatchewan for a weekend of skill and camaraderie.
Participants will test their marksmanship on a
Farms & Ranches
ABERNETHY: 10 ACRES: 2284 sq ft. stone home, detached double garage, shop, barn, large garden area, includes appliances, South of Abernethy.
GRENFELL: 319 ACRES: 260 cult., rented for 25/26, 416,100 assess., numerous outbuildings, private yard w/1570 sq ft. bungalow, NE of Grenfell.
KRONAU: 80 ACRES: approx 40 acres cult., 52,800 assess., soil class ‘E’; South of Kronau.
WHITEWOOD: 320 ACRES: 189 cult (65 hay), 80 acres pasture, 2 Dugouts, Well, Shop, Barn, Workshop, Cattle Shelter, room to build, between Whitewood and Wapella
course featuring 3D targets in various sizes, strategically placed at different distances.
“We have them set out along the course at different stations to shoot at from different distances,” said organizer John Tilley.
The event typically draws around 25 participants per day, with funds raised supporting the club’s operations. Last year’s shoot brought in $1,000, and organizers hope to match that success this year. “It just depends on the weather and how many people show up,” said Tilley.
The event will be at the Goodwater Golf Course and there will be a concession on site. Registration is from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily. For more details, contact the Weyburn Wildlife Federation. Call John at 403-421-9244, Jason at 306-861-0548, or Chris at 306-861-3832.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Gord Hulbert
Weyburn Silver Seals host swim meet
The Weyburn Silver Seals held their annual invitational swim meet on July 12 with 54 Weyburn athletes participating.
Seven-eight yearold male division: Silas Barker - sixth 50 back; Jake Wig - second 50 back, third 50 free, second 25 back, third 25 free; Keir Wilkinson - fourth 50 free, third 25 back, fifth 25 free.
Nine-10 year-old female division: Aria Bernard - sixth 100 breast; Everly Graham - third 100 back; Sophie Kruit - fifth 100 back; Presley
Logel - fourth 100 back; Rayya Ness - second 100 back, fifth 100 breast; Elizabeth Wig - fifth 100 free, third 50 fly, fourth 50 free.
Nine-10 year-old male division: Oscar Khorolets - fifth 50 back; Daniel Nikulinthird 50 breast, fifth 100 free, fifth 100 breast, fourth 50 free; Ishanne Kir Subna-en - fourth 50 breast, sixth 100 free, sixth 50 back, fifth 50 free; Zane Warren - first 25 fly, first 100 free, first 50 fly, first 50 free, first 100 IM.
11-12 year-old female division: Milly Ho - fifth 200 free, fifth 50 fly, sixth 200 IM; Alexandra Jose - sixth 100 back, fourth 100 breast; Kassandra Madriaga - first 200 free, third 100 back, first 50 breast, first 100 breast, third 50 free; Rehaam Manzoor - second
100 free, fourth 50 back, second 50 free; Elin Min - fourth 50 fly; Shay Warre n - first 100 back, second 25 fly, first 100 free, first 50 fly, first 200 IM.
11-12 year-old male division: Russell Brock - first 100 back, third 50 breast, first 100 free, first 50 back, second 50 free; Bentley McKinneythird 100 back, sixth 100 free, fourth 50 back, sixth 50 free; Oleksii Vlasenko - sixth 50 back, sixth 100 breast; Cody Wigsecond 200 free, second 50 back, third 50 free; Topher Wilkinson - first 25 fly, first 50 breast, first 100 breast, first 50 free, second 200 IM.
13-14 year-old female division: Ava Donisonthird 50 fly, second 100 free, first 100 fly, first 50 free, third 200 IM; Daisy Popescu - third 100 breast, fourth 100
Southeast crops look promising
Crops in the southeast look promising in many areas and producers would like to see additional timely rains to continue supporting crop development. Parts of the southeast continue to receive modest rainfall that is causing producers to spray fungicides to certain pulse, cereal, and oilseed crops. Other areas in the southeast have been experiencing dry conditions for the past two weeks and fungicides haven’t been needed yet.
Topsoil moisture levels fell slightly from last week in the southeast as there wasn’t enough rain
to replenish moisture loss.
Cropland topsoil moisture is 69 per cent adequate, 30 per cent short, and one per cent very short.
Timely rainfall is needed to accompany hot weather for crops to advance consistently.
• Two per cent of winter cereals are in stem elongation, two per cent are at the flag leaf stage, 50 per cent are heading, 40 per cent are in dough stages, and six per cent are ripe.
• Seven per cent of spring cereals are tillering, 18 per cent are in stem elongation, 31 per cent are at flag leaf stage, 42 per cent
are heading, and two per cent are at dough stages.
• Three per cent of flax remain in seedling stages, 67 per cent are in stem elongation, 23 per cent are flowering, two per cent are at the boll stage, and 5 per cent are ripe.
• Three per cent of canola and mustard are in the seedling stage, 19 per cent are in the rosette stage, 27 per cent are bolting, and 51 per cent are flowering.
• Three per cent of pulse crops are still seedlings, 22 per cent are in vegetative stages, 69 per cent are flowering, and six per cent have podded.
free, second 100 back, second 200 breast, second 50 free; Sakoda Seitzthird 200 free, fourth 50 fly, second 100 fly, sixth 50 free, fifth 200 IM; Brenna Torkelson - fifth 200 free, sixth 100 back, third 200 breast, sixth 200 IM; Persephonee Wilson - sixth 50 breast.
13-14 year-old male division: Nikolas Nikulin - first 200 back, first 100 breast, first 50 back, first 50 free, first 50 breast; Nash Warrensecond 200 free, third 200 back, fifth 100 free, fifth 100 back.
15-17 year-old female division: Avryelle Molnar - fourth 50 fly, second 100 free, second 100 fly, third 50 free, third 50 breast.
18 & over male division: Dalton Molnarfirst 50 fly; first 100 free, first 100 fly, first 50 free, first 50 breast.
The Weyburn Leisure Centre was filled with swimmers looking to beat the heat, during a free swim afternoon.
The Seven Stars Energy Project will bring
• More than $100 million in local economic benefits, including municipal tax revenues, over the project’s expected life.
• Approximately 200 construction jobs will provide significant spin-off benefits to local businesses, like hotels, restaurants, shops and services.
• A communit y benefit fund supporting local needs throughout construction and operation.
• Road repair and upgrades that will enhance local infrastructure—Enbridge-paid.
For more than 75 years, Enbridge has been more than just pipelines in Saskatchewan. We’re your neighbour, dedicated to the communities where we live and work Learn more at enbridge.com/sevenstars
Biggest Little Fair in Creelman to offer
The Creelman Fair, known as the “Biggest Little Fair in Saskatchewan”, will celebrate its 121st anniversary on Saturday, July 19, with an extensive list of attractions and activities.
The day kicks off with a pancake breakfast from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Memorial Hall, followed by the parade at 10 a.m. down Main Street. On the fairgrounds, yearly favourites will include the pig scramble, a craft and trade show, horse and cattle shows, a dog show, a children’s midway and concession booths.
Admission to the fairgrounds is $5 per person, and children aged six and under can get in for free.
There will be a beach volleyball tournament and a slo-pitch tournament.
Providing live music will be Brett Down (3 - 4 p.m.), Emily Dubois (4:30 - 5:30 p.m.), Winsome Kind (6 - 7 p.m.) , and the headliner, Justin Labrash & True North, playing at 7:30 p.m.
Other attractions include displays of animals and exhibits, beer gardens, and in the evening, there will be a beef-on-a-bun catered meal, with salads, served from 6-7 p.m. while quantities last. The cost will be $20 a plate.
Children had to be fast on their feet to catch little piglets in the first part of the pig scramble at the Creelman Fair held last year.
CREELMAN
These girls ran as hard as they could to try and catch little piglets at the pig scramble event, one of the most popular attractions at the Creelman Fair in 2024. The 30-degree heat and humidity helped limit the number of scramble events held, for which the piglets were very glad.
Participants in the horse show rode around the ring in the Western Pleasure class, at the Creelman Fair in 2024, before being judged.
Children ran up for a high five or hug from Sparky, the Fire Department mascot, at the end of the Creelman Fair parade in 2024.
The Creelman Fair parade begins at 10 a.m. on July 19. It travels northwest on the Service Road, southwest on Main Street, and southeast through the Fair Grounds.
Line up for the parade begins at 8 a.m. Awards will be presented at 9:15 a.m.
A wide variety of exhibits were on display at the rink as part of the 120th edition of the Creelman Fair in 2024. The rink will once again host vendors for a trade show, and a cold plate lunch will be available.
Young Guns win Woodlawn Memorial in dramatic fashion
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
For the fourth straight year, the Young Guns have won the Woodlawn Memorial Tournament at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course.
The Young Guns defeated the Old Boys 16-15 in Woodlawn’s annual battle of the generations, held July 12 and 13. The tournament is fashioned after professional golf’s Ryder Cup tournament between Europe and the U.S.; at the Woodlawn version, teams square off in better ball and alternate shot contests on the first day, and singles matches on the second. Games are decided by match play rather than stroke games.
The Old Boys came out strong and led 5-2 after the better ball rounds.
But the Young Guns re -
covered to win 6-2 in alternate shot, leaving the Young Guns up 8-7 following the opening day.
Each team won seven matches in the singles games; the other two were tied, leaving the Young Guns up by one. Chris Hoffos recorded the winning point in the final match.
The other members of the Young Guns were captain Anthony Melle, assistant captain Marcus Friess, and players Ryan Stovin, Scott Sykes, Erik McKersie, Reegan Robinson, Kyle McLaughlin, Landon audit, Ethan Veroba, Kristian Kallis, Brad Wilhelm, Ryan Larter, Drew Fenwick, Preston Erickson and Winston Grayson.
The tournament is held in memory of those who played in the tournament in the past.
Estevan police respond to mischief incidents and other complaints
SaskToday staff
The Estevan Police Service responded to a variety of calls on the weekend.
EPS members attended to a local restaurant July 11 to assist an individual who needed to be connected to community services. The Police and Crisis Team transported the individual to the police station for assistance.
Police received a call through the Report Impaired Drivers line from a concerned motorist. A traffic stop with the subject vehicle was conducted and the driver was found to not be impaired. He was cautioned regarding the ob -
served driving actions.
The EPS received a request to check a residence as the owner thought that someone might be inside.
Members checked the residence and did not locate anyone inside.
Police received a report of individuals trespassing on a residential property. An investigation determined that the individuals were tenants and were not trespassing.
The EPS received a report of individuals fighting in the Pleasantdale area. The words “don’t shoot” were heard by the caller.
Police attended to the area and located a group
of teenagers who took responsibility, but they were adamant they were just playing a game and had not been fighting.
Two males were reported to be fighting at a residence in the Hillcrest area. The complainant reported hearing what was believed to be a gunshot. EPS members attended, located the two males and determined that no gunfire had occurred. Both individuals were not co-operative with police and neither wanted anything done regarding the fight. The individuals were cautioned about their behaviour and were sent on their separate ways.
The EPS received a report July 12 of a stolen motor vehicle, which upon investigation was determined to be a civil dispute. The complainant was provided guidance on options available to resolve the matter.
Police received a report of a party in the Trojan subdivision and vehicles being driven erratically to and from the party. EPS members attended, warned a number of youths in attendance and monitored traffic in the area, with no
offences being observed.
The EPS received a report of a second party in the north end, but the complainant couldn’t identify the location of the party. Members patrolled the area but were unable to locate the source of the noise. No further complaints were received.
Police completed condition checks on several individuals bound by court-ordered conditions. Those that were checked were found to be compliant with their conditions.
The EPS received a request to keep the peace July 13 during a property exchange. Members attended and ensured that all parties were civil to each other.
A report of mischief to property at a residence in east Estevan was received. The matter is still under investigation.
Members responded to 26 calls for service over the weekend, and conducted vehicle and bicycle patrols throughout the city.
Estevan legion selling tickets for truck raffle
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion has been busy selling tickets for its annual truck raffle – the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year.
Estevan branch president Jim (Frosty) Forrest said they have been at events and businesses to promote the truck.
“It’s going well. I think we’re going to have a pretty successful year for it,” Forrest said in an interview with SaskToday.
The truck raffle raises funds that the legion uses to support veterans and make donations to community groups, such as the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and the Estevan Regional Nursing Home.
The truck is a 2025 Ford F-150 from Senchuk Ford, and Forrest said it’s a very nice vehicle. Ticket sales are going well, and Forrest believes they are ahead of last year’s pace. “Almost any event that we can find, and if we have enough volunteers, we’ll be there to
try to make this a great success again,” said Forrest. The winner of the truck will be drawn during the legion’s annual New Year’s Eve party on Dec. 31. The winner has the choice of the truck or $50,000 cash. The legion pays the taxes on the truck as well. The secondplace prize is $10,000 and third is $5,000. Five earlybird draws for $1,000 each will be drawn Oct. 4. Tickets are also available at the legion, or by e-transfer to truck.raffle@ sasktel.net.
The Young Guns gather for a group photo after winning the Woodlawn Memorial.
Photo courtesy Ron Dunville
White Bear FN artist creates visual land acknowledgment
Kaitlynn Nordal SaskToday.ca
Emilee Steffensen, a self-taught digital and traditional artist from White Bear First Nation and the owner of Moonemis Creeations, has recently been commissioned by Envision Counselling & Support Centre Inc. to make a visual land acknowledgment for their offices.
“My passion for art was passed down through my family,” said Steffensen. “My Grandma Dale Boutin inspired me to draw and paint when I was young, and when she passed, I lost that spark for a while. Later in life, when my Kookum Shirley Sparvier, adopted me as her own, came into my life and started teaching me cultural knowledge, I reconnected with my art in a new way through my identity as an Indigenous woman.”
“Art became not only healing for me but also a way to reclaim and share culture, teachings, and stories. One of the things I’ve come to specialize in is visual land acknowledgments. I’ve created several now, and it’s something I take great pride and passion in. Each one is a reflection of both cultural teachings and community connection,” continued Steffensen.
Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. contacted Steffensen about doing a visual land acknowledgment.
“I have worked with them in the past by selling my artwork that they
have hung up in their locations,” said Steffensen.
“Linda Rideout had seen my visual land acknowledgements through others that I have done and wanted one, something that represented Indigenous teachings and values while being unique to our shared Treaty Four and Two territory and what they do for the community. It was a respectful and collaborative approach, and from the very beginning, they trusted me to bring my voice and vision into the piece.”
Steffensen said yes because visual land acknowledgments are a powerful step beyond just words.
“They create lasting impact and visibility. Growing up, I didn’t see a lot of Indigenous representation in certain spaces, especially in professional or service-oriented organizations. So, to be asked to create something that permanently reflects Indigenous presence, teachings, and truth was meaningful,” said Steffensen.
“I’ve made it a part of my work to bring Indigenous visibility into public spaces, and this type of work is something I’ve found I truly excel at. It’s more than just art, it’s storytelling, education, and healing combined,” continued Steffensen.
Steffensen says she decided to make the Seven Grandfather Teachings the core of the visual land acknowledgement.
“The Seven Grandfather Teachings: Love, Respect, Bravery, Truth, Honesty, Humility, and Wisdom, are foundational teachings
in many Indigenous communities, including mine. I chose to include them because they represent a way of life, a moral compass that guides how we treat each other and the land,” said Steffensen.
“I placed them in a circular form around the medicine wheel because they are interconnected, and like the wheel itself, they reflect balance, direction, and the cycles of life,” continued Steffensen. “It was important to ground the piece in teachings that speak to both Indigenous identity and shared human values.”
Steffensen then put Prairie Lilies and wheat around the Seven Grandfather Teachings.
“Prairie Lilies are Saskatchewan’s provincial flower (my grandmother Dale also loved Prairie lilies so, I’ve been adding them to all of my land acknowledgement, to honour her) and wheat is a symbol of the prairie landscape,” said Steffensen. “Including them was my way of honouring the land we share, Treaty 4 territory, and bringing visual harmony between Indigenous knowledge and the natural beauty of the area.”
“These elements also represent growth and resilience,” continued Steffensen. “I placed them around the teachings to show that cultural teachings can root and blossom within the land we live on, and that reconciliation can grow from that same soil.”
All of this then branches off the medicine wheel,
which is a sacred symbol that represents balance, harmony, and the interconnection of all things: mind, body, spirit, and emotions.
“Everything in the piece branches out from the wheel because all aspects of life and teachings begin there,” said Steffensen. “The wheel is not just a symbol, it’s a way of understanding life. By allowing everything—
flowers, teachings, symbols—to grow outward from the wheel, I wanted to show how our worldview is expansive and deeply rooted, and how we carry those teachings into everything we do.”
From initial concept to final touches, this piece took Steffensen roughly four weeks.
“I spent a lot of time
reflecting. I didn’t want to just create something beautiful; I wanted every element to have purpose. Once I started designing, it evolved naturally,” said Steffensen. “I kept revisiting it until it felt like it told the story it needed to tell. The final moment, when I looked at it and felt peace, was powerful. That’s when I knew it was complete.”
As a cornerstone of the region, Southeast College transforms lives through the power of education. By fostering strong communities and driving economic growth in an ever-evolving world, the College plays a vital role in shaping a prosperous future
The College is governed by a dedicated seven-person Board of Governors. With three vacancies arising due to upcoming retirements, the Board is seeking expressions of interest from individuals eager to contribute as Board members. Candidates will be assessed with preference given to those who meet the following criteria:
Geographic representation
Based on Southeast College’s operational footprint:
• 1 representative for ‘rural west communities’
• 1 representative for ‘rural north communities’
• 1 representative from Weyburn or immediately adjacent communities
Skills/experience
Ideal candidates will have expertise in at least one of the following (not in order of importance): Government, Education systems, Indigenous relations, Legal, Leadership experience, Southeast College’s operating environment, Energy, Health, Trades, Small Business & Labor Relations, Management, Finance, Risk Management, Communications, and Marketing
Diversity
Southeast College embraces diversity and inclusivity, actively encouraging
• Inclusion of individuals with disabilities
• Equal gender representation
• Representation of visible minorities
• Participation of women in non-traditional roles
Submission
Southeast College Board of Governors invites interested parties to apply, in writing or email, before 1st August 2025 to:
CJ Johns, Board Liaison
Southeast College
Box 1565, Weyburn, SK S4H 0T1
Email: CJohns@southeastcollege.org
Please include a resume with your professional background, previous board experience, if any,and describe your interest/aims in serving on the Board of Southeast College All submissions willbe treated with the utmost confidentiality. The board will review applications before making arecommendation to the Ministry of Advanced Education for Ministerial approval.
For further information contact CJ at cjohns@southeastcollege.org or (306) 861-5751
Lynda Rideout of Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. (left) and Emilee Steffensen pose for a photo at the unveiling of Steffensen’s Visual Land Acknowledgement.
Mandated by provincial legislation, Southeast College proudly provides academic, and skills training opportunities tailored to meet the regional and industry needs of southeast Saskatchewan Situated on Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 Territory and the homeland of the Métis, the College is deeply rooted in its commitment to reconciliation and community engagement
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