The Golden Garbage Can is back and southeastern Saskatchewan’s tidiest rivalry is ready for another round.
The cities of Weyburn and Estevan will once again face off in the community cleanup competition on June 17, continuing the renewed tradition after the competition made its comeback in 2025 following a 15-year hiatus.
A panel of judges will tour both cities, scoring each community using a shared rubric that highlights cleanliness, visual appeal, civic pride and overall community care. The winning city will be awarded the Golden Garbage Can, along with a fresh year of bragging rights.
Estevan claimed the trophy in 2025, marking the first win of the competition’s modern comeback.
“While only one community can take home the trophy, the real win is seeing residents, businesses, schools and community groups come together and build the kind of civic pride this competition was created to celebrate,” said Estevan City Councillor Kristen Walliser.
Judges will review a range of areas in each community, including downtown, residential streets, school properties, parks, gateways, commercial areas and public facilities. Residents and businesses are encouraged to
participate with creativity and community-led efforts, such as flower beds, beautification projects and cleanup initiatives ahead of judging day.
“Estevan and Weyburn both have a strong sense of community, and this competition gives us a chance to showcase that in a positive, good-natured way,” said Weyburn City Councillor Kellie Sidloski. “It is about more than clean streets. It is about the people who care enough to pitch in, take pride and help their community look its best.”
The Golden Garbage Can dates back to 1956, when Weyburn and Estevan first began the friendly challenge as a way to encourage community-wide cleanup efforts and showcase the value of welcoming public spaces. Over the decades, the competition became a recognizable regional tradition before pausing after the 2010 contest. Its return in 2025 brought new energy to the long-standing connection between the two cities.
The competition is light-hearted, but its purpose is meaningful: encouraging civic care, celebrating community effort and recognizing the shared commitment both cities have to keeping their communities welcoming, clean and vibrant.
The winner of the 2026 Golden Garbage Can will be announced following judging.
Little Discoveries celebrated Family Fun Day
create lasting memories together.
Submitted Little Discoveries Early Learning Cooperative hosted its annual Family Fun Day on June 5. This special event was dedicated to celebrating and giving back to the amazing families who are part of the Centre. The event was offered free of charge to all daycare families and was filled with fun, laughter and the opportunity for families to connect and
Families enjoyed a variety of entertainment and activities throughout the evening, including Seitz’s Bounce Houses, Facetastic Faces, Christan Barker Photography, and refreshing treats from Slush Sisters, who generously donated $1 from every slushie sold back to the Centre. Each classroom also created a unique
activity for children and parents to enjoy together, adding to the excitement and sense of community.
In addition to celebrating our wonderful families, Little Discoveries took the opportunity to recognize several community partners whose support has helped enhance our outdoor play space.
They acknowledged Kal Tire and the RePlay
Grant, which provided funding for the rubber surfacing installed beneath a new climbing pyramid. They also recognized the Weyburn Credit Union for their Community Grant, which contributed toward the purchase of the climbing pyramid.
Family Fun Day was a wonderful reminder of the strong partnerships between our families, staff, and community supporters.
This summer, as you enjoy the longer days and slower pace I encourage you to take time to enjoy the goodness of God.
In the book of Ecclesiastes 3:1 in the Bible we read, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”
Summer reminds us of the changing seasons and the importance of embracing each moment. I encourage you this summer to use this time to reflect on the different seasons in your life and take time to think of how God has been present in each of those seasons. Consider journa-
ling about the various seasons you’ve experienced and how they’ve shaped your faith journey.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to forget to pause and be still.
In Psalm 46:10 we are told “Be still, and know that I am God.” Summer offers a perfect opportunity to slow down and spend focused time with God. I encourage you this summer to find a peaceful spot, take a few deep breaths, and meditate on the goodness of God. Perfect for soaking up the sunlight and soaking up God’s presence!
In Matthew 11:28-29
we are told by Christ Himself, “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.” May this summer be a season of rest and rejuvenation. As you enjoy the slower pace of summer, seek to find rest for your soul in Christ. As you go through your summer days, try to make it a habit to notice and appreciate the beauty around you. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of a sunset or the laughter of children playing, let these moments draw you closer to God. As you draw close to God and enjoy the beauty of rest and nature, I encourage you to soak in the blessings of God in your life and the lives of those you love and care so deeply about
Wheatland Senior Centre activities
In Spades held on June 8, Stan Hubick placed first, Heather Carter finished second and Mildred Sandiford took third.
Playing Trump Whist on June 8, Marjorie McLeod and Jannette Tonn won first, Marge Schultz and Heather Carter placed second and Cindy Renas and Elaine Frasz finished third.
In Kaiser on June 2, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson won first, Alice Schneider and Lavine
Stepp placed second and Jeanne Molnar and Elaine Frasz finished third.
During Canasta on June 3, Jean Reich won first, Ione Schnell placed second, Janet van Winkoop took third, Joni McNaughton placed fourth and Bonnie Olvera finished fifth.
In Hi-Low Whist held on June 10, Cris Herlick and Elaine Frasz won first, Dave Frayn and Brenda Paul took second, Fay Johnson and Marge
Schultz placed third.
During Thursday Cribbage on June 11, Dave Frayn and Doreen Knibbs placed first, Elaine Frasz and Gerry Thompson finished second and Dot Bakusko and Cris Herlick took third.
In Contract Bridge on June 12, Erskine Sandiford won first and Jean Knibbs placed second.
The month end supper will be held June 26 and will feature a cold plate supper.
Beautiful grad dresses were worn by WCS graduates Brooke Buchanan, Lily Popescu, Brittney Honig, Zoe Kerr, Sadie Tronson, Cadence Wawro (valedictorian), Tamberly Kreger, Kabri Ozmun, Ella Schenher and Sierra Bauman during
Graduates Cam Kaufmann, Joel Benson, Austin Zackrisson, Kaleb Sheasby, Evan Guest and Parker Knoll posed on their parade float.
Graduates Lea Mae Mujar, Harper Williams and Maryann Ejiofor showed off their dresses in the WCS graduation parade. Photos Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
EDITORIAL
Travelling through the mountains
By Trudy and Dale Buxton, Publishers of The Independent
After a brief stop in Salmo, British Columbia, we continue our way north on Highway 6 towards Nelson.
Travelling through the mountains is very peaceful and the scenery is spectacular, at least for a guy who lives upon the flatlands of Saskatchewan, travelling in the mountains is always an experience.
We happened by the community of Ymir, tucked away among the Selkirk Mountains. Ymir is one of those booms to bust communities from the gold rush.
Ymir was named after the frost giant in Norse mythology and at one time Ymir was a bustling community of over 1,500 people with a hospital and several hotels that were needed for the stream of prospectors looking to find their riches in gold.
All that remains is a population of about 250 residents and some buildings that are very well preserved from days gone by.
Today Ymir relies on tourism and outdoor recreation for its income.
Welcome to Nelson, British Columbia, the capital of the cannabis culture. Long before the federal legalization there was already a movement in Nelson, with the help of the hidden valleys and laid-back culture.
Nelson was named in honour of Lieutenant-Governor Hugh Nelson when the community was founded in 1889. Today, Nelson is known as the Queen City for its scenery and arts and culture scene, the current population of Nelson is around 11,000 people.
Nelson was the place for the first hydroelectric plant in B.C., producing electricity to the growing city way back in 1896. It is home to over 350 beautifully restored heritage buildings, mostly built in the late 1800’s. A lot of these buildings are located
in the historic section of the city on Baker Street.
Nelson was the first to have a streetcar system in B.C. and in the summertime visitors and still ride a vintage 1906 streetcar along the waterfront.
Nelson has also been the home to several movie backdrops including the 1987 comedy Roxanne starring Steve Martin that was almost filmed entirely in Nelson.
NHL legend Steve Yzerman was born in Nelson along with many other NHL stars that have called the bustling city home.
Nelson is a great place for sports, especially in the winter where you will find many into snowboarding and snowmobiling into the mountains. Along with all the arts and culture activities around the city Nelson is a great place for other recreational activities including skiing, rock climbing, and bike riding. Just a short distance from Nelson is the Ainsworth Hot Springs which features a unique underground horseshoe shaped cave.
Despite Nelson’s smaller population, it has been noted that it has more restaurants per capita than any other B.C. city - or for that matter, more than San Francisco.
It was lunch time, so we found a great little lunch stop. “Waits on Nelson” served up a really good meal. The atmosphere was fantastic and the service was just as good. What a nice stop.
Nelson is definitely a place that we will have to return to and discover more hidden gems, but for this time we must move on and head north on Highway 3A, which is a route along the Kootenay Lake.
Stay tuned next week as we explore places like Balfour and Kaslo.
Nelson was named in honour of Lieutenant-Governor Hugh Nelson when the community was founded in 1889.
Ottawa moves to keep children under 16 off social media
The federal government has announced its long-awaited legislation aimed at clamping down on social media aimed at kids.
At a news conference in Ottawa the government announced it is bringing in the Safe Social Media Act (Bill C-34). According to their news release, the legislation would make online services responsible for addressing harmful content and creating a safer online space for all Canadians, especially children.
Marc Miller, Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages, announced details of the legislation, which includes among its provisions a ban on social media use for those under 16 — although it stops short of being a full ban. “The act will establish a minimum age of 16 to have a social media account,” Miller told reporters.
“The act will require social media platforms and AI chatbot services to do more to protect children and make their platforms safe by design. Social media and AI chat platforms will have a responsibility to protect children from harmful content, including content that promotes self-harm, sexual exploitation, violence, hatred, bullying, or the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.
“Social media services will have to remove within 24 hours content that sexually victimizes a child or shares intimate content without consent, including sexually explicit deepfakes. And AI chatbot services will be required to mitigate the risk of chatbot communicating harmful content that have clear protocols in place when a user expresses an intention to harm themselves or others. They, too, will have to be safe by design. Platforms will have to be transparent and accountable to Canadians and submit publicly disclosed digital safety plans to the Digital Safety Commission.”
Miller said the measures in this bill “represent, in my view, the basic expectation that parents and Canadians are keep-
ing their kids safe online. I believe all parties should agree on the importance of these minimum safeguards.”
The act would cover seven categories of harmful content: content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor; content that induces a child to harm themselves; content used to bully a child; content that incites violence; content that foments hatred; terrorism or violent extremism content; and intimate content communicated without consent.
There would also be a duty by regulated social media services to make two categories of harmful content inaccessible to users in Canada: content that sexually victimizes a child or revictimizes a survivor; and intimate content communicated without consent, including sexualized deepfakes.
The bill calls for creation of a new independent regulator called the Digital Safety Commission of Canada that would develop regulations and guidance, assess compliance, conduct audits and inspections, and enforce obligations under the Act through compliance orders and administrative monetary penalties. The legislation will still need to be passed through the House of Commons. The government had tried to pass the Online Harms Act in the last House, but that bill died on the order paper.
As for this bill, the indication from Miller is the Safe Social Media Act is being introduced because while the government has tools to act when the harm is caused, they needed to do more to prevent harm from happening.
The issue of a social media ban had been something discussed at the provincial level including in Saskatchewan. Premier Scott Moe announced the government would be sending mailouts to households across the province seeking answers to two ‘yes or no’ questions: do you support social media limits for children under the age of 16, and if no, do you support parental consent for social media usage under age 16.
Photo courtesy of The Saskatchewan Traveller
John Cairns/SaskToday.ca
Congratulations to the 2026 Grads of Estevan Comprehensive High School
John Andrei Alvento Trestin Ashworth
Sadie Aspinall
Andrei Balbuena Kiera Barker Paxton Beam
Madison Blanchette Marvin Blue
Mason Boettcher
Alianna Boles
Hanna Borhot
Finity Bourassa
Lance Boutin Alyssa Brady
Nate Brenner
Phoebe Briz Simon Chi Truman Ciepliski
Braxtyn Colborn Riley Cole
Colton Collomb
Feby Jane Contillo Makenzie Crosby-Myers Zach Curtis
Shaya Daae Natalie Davis Miley Dawson Landry Deatherage Kora Dowhanuik Mykenna Driedger
Charlotte Waldegger Kassidy Wallington Madison Wheeler
Elliana Wiebe Memphis Wilhelm Alexis Williamson
Jaken Willock Oden Woolsey
Adrianna Wouters
Kiera Young Sadie Young
Venlina Zhou
Southeast Sask. hockey product wins the Stanley Cup with Carolina
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
For the second times in four seasons, an Estevan Minor Hockey Association alumni has won the Stanley Cup as a player.
Jordan Martinook, a forward and an alternate captain with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, won the NHL’s championship trophy June 14 when the ‘Canes defeated the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 to win the best-of-seven Stanley Cup final in six games. It’s the first Stanley Cup title for Martinook and the second for Carolina.
After Carolina won Game 6, Martinook was among the first players to celebrate with the tro -
phy. Long-time teammate Jaccob Slavin handed the trophy to Martinook - after Martinook hugged Slavinand then Martinook kissed the trophy and repeatedly hoisted it over his head. He then passed the trophy to defenceman Shayne Gostisbehere.
In an interview with Estevan Mercury that ran in July 2012, shortly after he was selected in the second round of the NHL Entry Draft by the Arizona Coyotes, Martinook said his family moved to Estevan when he was two years old, and then relocated to Leduc, Alta., when he was eight.
Martinook said he played three years of minor
hockey in Estevan and one in Bienfait.
A post on the Bienfait Memorial Arena’s Facebook page on May 21 paid tribute to Martinook, noting he once wore the Bienfait Avalanche jersey before making his way to the big leagues.
“From small-town rinks come big dreams,” the post said.
Martinook was born in Brandon, Man.
He made his NHL debut in the 2014-15 season with the Coyotes. In the 201819 season, he joined Carolina, and has been with the team ever since. He has recorded 107 goals and 155 assists for 262 points in 797 regular-season NHL
Fundraiser for Estevan’s hospital
The St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation once again received outstanding support through the annual Radiothon for Life fundraiser. “Because of the overwhelming generosity of our donors, volunteers, sponsors and community members, we are proud to announce that the 2026 Radiothon for Life raised $198,410 in support of chemotherapy services at St. Joseph’s Hospital,” the foundation said in a Facebook post after the event.
“Once again, our community has shown what is possible when we come together for a cause that impacts so many families right here at home.”
The post thanked every person who made a donation, shared a story, answered phones, prepared meals, volunteered their time and supported behind the scenes. The foundation also lauded the “incredible” hospital staff who provide compassionate cancer care every day.
“Your kindness and dedication make a real differ-
Hey Dads! The nice weather is here. Are your kids doing any summer sports? I’ve talked to a few dads this spring that are running full tilt into soccer, baseball, and even summer hockey for the serious dads… I mean kids. Our own kids dusted off the summer bins in the shed and unloaded them in piles all over the yard and driveway. Bikes, bats and balls strewn about and hopefully not behind our van. Now that I think about it, there could be a few extra dents and scratches on the van already. It’s hard to tell with all the rust but I wonder how they got there?
Soccer balls and volleyballs seem to have a short life span around our place. There’s either a lot of bad lawn mower drivers in our family or a lot of forgetful children that leave their sports balls all over the yard. Or maybe both. I may have seen the soccer ball in the grass and tried to mow around it instead of getting off to move it. If you think professional soccer players can make a ball move fast, you should see
ence,” the foundation said.
The foundation said it continues to be amazed by the support of this community and the commitment to ensuring patients can receive their chemotherapy treatments close to home, surrounded by the people and places they love.
The Radiothon for Life opened at 6 a.m. and continued until 6 p.m. The fundraiser aired on Golden West Broadcasting’s three radio stations in Estevan.
The Southern Plains Co-op served a barbecue lunch during the event.
Dusting off for summer
what happens when it gets sucked into a 7-foot finishing mower.
I was talking to another dad this week who was doing his best to coach his young son on the soccer field. In the net to be exact. But some kids just don’t want to listen (You probably never experienced that but some parents have). So, this dad was advising his son, the soccer goalie, to move out of the net to try to cut off the angle of the shooters so they have less net to shoot at. Pro tips from dad. Did the son listen? He did not. The other team began to approach and dad kept yelling, I mean, telling, him, “Get out of the net! Get out of the net!” The son must have finally decided to listen because he quickly started moving out towards the shooters. But he got caught up in the net, tripped, and fell flat on his face in the grass. In the net to be exact. Like literally, he was caught in the net! Chalk one up for the other team. But aren’t some of the best lessons learned from failure?
games, while adding 360 penalty minutes.
In this year’s Stanley Cup playoffs, he had two goals and three assists in 19 games. The first goal was a big one, as it was the double-overtime winner in Game 2 of the Hurricanes’ first-round series against the Ottawa Senators.
When Vegas won the Stanley Cup in 2023, they had two southeast hockey products in their organization. Estevan’s Brayden Pachal, a defenceman, became the first player born, raised and developed in Estevan to win the Stanley Cup. Carlyle’s Jim McKenzie, who also
won the Stanley Cup as a player with the New Jersey Devils in 2003, was a member of the Knights’ scouting staff. McKenzie is currently the head of pro scouting in Vegas. Both Pachal and McKenzie brought the Stanley Cup to Estevan in 2023.
And sometimes some kids just aren’t cut out for athletics. I coached my son’s soccer team a few years ago. “Coach” may be an exaggeration. It was mostly trying to get a bunch of 6 year-olds to kick the ball. But my son was less interested in the soccer and more interested in one of the other boys’ new digital watch It was painful to observe the boys out there pushing buttons on the watch as the other team strolled on by to score. Well, that’s not totally true because the other kids were also distracted by snacks and birds and their own watches and such.
But that’s okay! We’re here for a good time, not a long time, right dad? Maybe put your phone down, head outside with the kids and kick the ball around for a bit. Time flies! Make every moment count. Especially the almost athletic ones.
Jason Weening kicks balls to his 10 kids and one formerly athletic wife. Read more in his book, “Yes, Dear…I’m Watching Them” on Amazon.
Jordan Martinook celebrates after winning the Stanley Cup.
Photo courtesy of Carolina Hurricanes’ Facebook page
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
SPORTS
WCBL recap:
Randy Palmer SaskToday.ca
Moose Jaw rolled to a 19-6 victory over the Beavers in Weyburn on Sunday, knocking them down to fourth place in the east division of the Western Canadian Baseball League.
Moose Jaw 19, Weyburn 6 June 14
After taking back-toback final-inning wins over the Beavers in a doubleheader on Saturday, the Express left nothing to doubt this time around.
Leading 3-1 after two, Moose Jaw scored five in the third and added another six in the fifth.
Gary Swann had a solid night at the plate for the Express, going 3-for-4 with two doubles and four runs scored, while Will Edwards was 2-for-3 with two runs and three RBI. Jacob Mraz had a pair of hits and crossed the plate four times, Ben Waliczek went 3-for6 with two runs and three RBI, Cade Ransom 2-for-4 with three RBI and Thomas Soto 2-for-6 with three runs and two RBI.
That was plenty of of-
Registration open for Chamber’s Linked on Links
Tee up for one of the Weyburn Chamber’s most anticipated events of the year.
The Linked on the Links Golf Tournament will be held Friday, August 7. This is a signature Chamber experience that brings together business leaders, professionals, and community members for an unforgettable day on the course.
This high-energy tournament combines friendly competition, top - notch networking, and a relaxed summer atmosphere, making it the perfect setting
to build new connections, strengthen existing relationships, and enjoy a great day of golf.
Registration is open to Chamber members and non-members, giving even more local businesses the chance to get involved, make connections, and experience a Chamber event firsthand.
Team spots fill up fast. Gather a team, grab the clubs, and join the Chamber for an incredible day on the links. Registration forms are available on the Chamber of Commerce website.
Moose Jaw scores 19 runs in win over Weyburn
fence for Moose Jaw starter and game winner Jacob Glazener, who allowed three runs on seven hit over five innings and had an impressive 12 strikeouts on the day.
Joe Madill led Weyburn’s offence with a 2-for-4 outing that included a home run and two runs scored, Gunner Ferguson knocked in a pair, Ryan Weaver finished with a pair of hits.
Weyburn’s defence did their pitching staff no favours on the day, committing a total of seven errors. Josh Pritchard got the start and took the loss after allowing eight runs, six earned, on six hits over three innings.
Moose Jaw 12, Weyburn 11 June 13
Everything went Moose Jaw’s way in their final at bat, beginning when Chris Franks led off with his first double of the inning and was followed by the next two batters being hit by pitches and the next two after that reaching on errors.
The Express had scored four runs in the frame and were down to their final out when Franks came up
ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET
10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday to Sunday
for the second time, and his double off the centrefield wall would bring home Pacey Phillips, Will Edwards and Ben Waliczek with the winning runs.
Weyburn had built their lead by scoring six in the second inning, adding another three in the fifth and two more in the sixth for an 11-2 edge at the time. Moose Jaw began their comeback with three in the sixth before their improbable surge in the seventh.
Franks ended up going 4-for-5 with two runs and three RBI and the two final inning doubles, Phillips scored three runs and knocked in four, Brayden Bunnell went 2-for-3 and scored two runs, Jacob Mraz also crossed the plate twice.
Austin Boylan finished
a home run away from the cycle for Weyburn, finishing 3-for-5 with a double, triple, two runs and two RBI. Brayden Mayencourt was 2-for-3 with three runs, Robert Gurney went 2-for-2 with a double and two runs.
Jordan Bauer was Moose Jaw’s most effective pitcher, allowing three runs on three hits after taking over in the second inning.
Zach Raichel started for Weyburn and allowed two runs on five hits over four innings. Bill Hosegood was saddled with the loss after giving up the final two runs in the seventh.
Moose Jaw 10, Weyburn 9 June 13
A four-run inning in the top of the sixth gave Weyburn an 8-5 lead in the
nightcap, but Moose Jaw scored one in their half of the sixth and added two more in the seventh to tie things up.
The Beavers scored one in the extra inning, but the Express picked up a pair in the bottom of the eighth to take the win.
Waliczek had the walkoff hit, lacing a single to right centre to bring home Bunnell from third with the game-winning run.
Caden Ransom hit a three-run home run in the second inning and scored two runs for Moose Jaw; Bunnell and Michael Rago each crossed the plate twice. Waliczek, Edwards and Garryn Plummer each knocked in a pair.
Boylan went 2-for-4 with a three-run home run
in the sixth and finished with five RBI. Brayden Mayencourt had a three-run home run in the fifth, while Daxtyn Brown and Hugh Montgomery each crossed the plate twice.
Rowan Robinson had a solid start for Moose Jaw, allowing a single run on five hits over four innings. Will Sevier started for the Beavers and allowed five runs on four hits in 3 ⅓, Hosegood had the ignoble honor of giving up the two runs in the eighth to take the loss in back-to-back games. Upcoming games
The Weyburn will travel to Saskatoon to play the Berries on June 18, then host the Regina Red Sox on June 20. The weekend closes with a doubleheader in Regina on June 21.
Weyburn Beavers infielder Ryan Weaver read to students at Assiniboia Park Elementary School during team visits held last week.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn
Kim Thorson
Kim Thorson was born on the 2nd of March, 1932 at Mrs. Billy’s Maternity Home in Macoun, Saskatchewan. He died peacefully at the Pasqua Hospital in Regina on January 7, 2026. Kim is survived by his son Eric (Suzanne) and their children Viktor, Arianna and Anton; his daughter Janet (Frank Abramovic) and their children Tom and Katie; his daughter Vanessa and her children Loughran, Lily and Sarah; sister Ann Rose (Dave Baillie), brother-in-law George Lipsett and sister-in-law Norma Kuchinka, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. Kim was predeceased by his loving wife of 63 years, Myrt; his father, Miles Thorson; his mother Ethel (Sinclair) and step-father Barney Kuckinka, Sr.; his brother Barney Kuckinka, Jr. and his wife Dodie; and brother Darryl Kuchinka. His father Miles Thorson died tragically on May 28, 1932. After his mother remarried in 1933, Kim was raised at Macoun on the family farm by his mother, Ethel and step-father Barney Kuchinka along with his stepbrother Barney, half-brother Darryl and half-sister Ann. Along with his nuclear family, Kim was surrounded by cousins, aunts and uncles who all came from one of three families who had settled in Macoun around the turn of the last century: the Sinclairs, the Thorsons and the Kuchinkas. It is impossible to state how important his family was to Kim, and how he valued the love and support that he received from them as he grew up, and for the rest of this life. Kim completed his schooling at Macoun, and in 1950 entered the University of Saskatchewan where he completed a Bachelor of Agricultural Economics degree. In 1954 Kim won a scholarship which allowed him to spend four months in Africa, an amazing adventure for a young man. He returned to the U of S and began to work on a Master’s degree in Economics, but fate had other plans in store. In 1956 Kim was asked by Tommy Douglas to run as the CCF candidate for the constituency of Souris Estevan. To Kim’s great surprise, he won and became (at that time) the youngest legislator in Canada. By the election of 1960, Dad had acquired a wife and two children, so when he lost the election that year, Kim and his wife Myrt decided that law school was their best option. He completed his LLB and BA (Arts) in 1963 at the University of Saskatchewan. After articling in Saskatoon, Kim and family returned to Estevan where he partnered with well-known local lawyer W.W. Lynd. In Estevan they built a house on Alice Road overlooking the valley. Kim served on the Estevan School Board and joined the local Masonic Lodge. Politics were never far away. Just 6 months after the June general election, which elected the NDP to government under Allan Blakeney, the MLA for Souris-Estevan died. On December 1, 1971, Kim won the byelection and not long after was appointed Minister of Industry & Commerce, eventually holding a number of cabinet positions. In 1972 the family, now with three children, moved to Regina. In the 1975 general election, Kim was defeated but not daunted. He joined the firm Griffin and Beke where he was made a partner, and the firm was renamed Griffin, Beke, and Thorson. Kim was also made a Q.C. (Queen’s Council) the same year. He
was a member of both the Interprovincial Pipe and Steel Company (IPSCO) Board and the Cameco Board. Kim loved to plan and build things like tables and chairs and also houses. He built three. He designed a house for a lot he and Myrt bought on South Albert Street in Regina. It was a fine two-story house completed in 1982. Kim built the fences and designed the gates, did the landscaping, and planted the trees that spring with the help of his Uncle Colin Sinclair. This was the house that was our final and most beloved home as a family. Eventually, Kim and Myrt looked to downsize and in 1991 Kim decided to move to Weyburn where he partnered with George Hardy. When George Hardy retired, Kim was on his own for a short while. Eventually he and Don Horner joined forces. Kim retired in 2012, and he and Myrt enjoyed a happy and full retirement. In Weyburn, Kim was eventually president of the Rotary Club, served on the board of the Humane Society, and was instrumental in fund raising for the new hospital. He renovated a house rather than building one. Kim and Myrt loved to garden and created a little spot under some elm trees in the garden called “Kids Korner”, marked with a wooden sign Kim created with his router and that Myrt painted. This was for Kim and Myrt’s eight grandchildren, who filled the later years of their life with an abundance of lore and laughter. During the years they lived in Weyburn, they traveled extensively – as far away as Egypt and as close to home as Assiniboia. They loved going to Yukon to see Vanessa’s family, and to visit Eric’s family, wherever the Army stationed him. Tom and Katie were frequent visitors to the house in Weyburn, seeing it as a second home. Myrt passed away on December 16, 2020, and Kim felt he needed to give up his house in Weyburn to be closer to Janet and her family. He began a journey to find a retirement community where he could feel at home and in March of 2023, he found Harvest Haven at Broadway Terrace. Parkinson’s Disease took a terrible toll, eventually robbing Kim of his ability to speak and to walk. Despite this, he remained engaged, reading extensively, following politics, writing histories of his beloved pioneer family and often working on poetry. This was quite appropriate, as he loved poetry and had a poem for every occasion. The staff of Harvest Haven all deserve nothing but lavish praise and thanks for their loving care of Dad. He loved them and was grateful for their continuing kindness, which lasted until two days before his death. We are grateful to the staff of Pasqua Hospital who provided comfort and care to Kim, during the last two days of his life. Eric, Janet, Frank, Tom and Katie were with him at the end of his life. Throughout his life, he worked to support his family and community. Even as his health failed, he worked hard to use the strength he had to care and provide for others, and make plans for the future, even to the end. A Service of Remembrance will be held on Saturday, June 20th, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. from the Grace United Church, 210 - 3rd Street N.E., Weyburn, SK with Sharon Elliott officiating. Luncheon will follow at the Upper Grace Hall, Weyburn, SK. In lieu of flowers, for family and friends so wishing, charitable donations in Kim’s memory may be made to the Weyburn & District Hospital Foundation, Box 1416, Weyburn, SK or a charity of your choice are welcome. Arrangements are entrusted to RD Family Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, Weyburn, SK (848-0333 - 1-888-848-0333). Expressions of sympathy to the family may be sent to our website at www.rdfuneralchapel.com “Honoring Life and Celebrating Memories”.
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(403) 543-0927
Obituaries
Obituaries
Weyburn Concert Series announces 2026-2027 line-up
Weyburn Concert Series is looking forward to bringing six shows to the Cugnet Centre this upcoming season.
Kicking off the new season of Weyburn Concert Series performances on September 30 is Simply Queen - a world class act! This tribute band performs all the iconic songs that made Queen one of the most legendary rock bands of all time.
They faithfully recreate the grand scope of Queen’s live shows – musically and visually capturing the amazing live experience, that has filled stadiums around the world.
The band is fronted by Freddie Mercury impersonator extraordinaire, Rick Rock (vocal, piano, guitar), CC Lambrick (guitar/keyboards/vocal), Mitch Taylor (bass/vocal) & Phil Charrette (drums/ vocals).
Based in Windsor, Ontario, they are veteran musicians who have preformed in festivals, theatres and arenas across North America and beyond. This show is “guaranteed to blow your mind!”
Next up on October 20 is Kellie Loder, a gifted storyteller and entertainer with a voice that radiates both warmth and power. Their songs are built on honest, vulnerable lyrics that feel deeply personal, resonating through heartfelt ballads, playful charm, and exhilarating live performances.
Described as “a multigenre marvel,” Loder blends Americana, folk and indie pop, crafting a sound that reflects both the rugged spirit and emotional depth of their Newfoundland and Labrador roots.
Loder’s latest album Transitions and the hit single “When it Comes to You”, has propelled their artistry to new heights, earning a 2025 JUNO Award nomination, two East Coast Music Awards and multiple other awards. Their impressive career continues to flourish, with extensive touring across Canada and abroad, showcasing a dynamic performer whose music connects across cultures and continents. Kelly Loder’s show is sure to both entertain and move the audience.
Celebrate the Christmas season with international stars The Celtic Tenors on November 25. This highly anticipated stop on their Canadian tour promises an evening of vocal brilliance, blending Irish heritage with festive spirit.
Audiences will be swept away by a repertoire featuring timeless Christmas classics, traditional Celtic ballads, and contemporary hits. Known for their “highwire act of charm,” Matthew, Daryl, and George pair technical excellence with infectious humour and heartwarming stories.
Don’t miss this mesmerizing celebration of culture and song that will
Farms & Ranches
TOWN OF MIDALE
Property for Sale by Public Tender
Under the provisions of the Tax Enforcement Act, the Town of Midale offers for sale the following property in the Town of Midale.
Lot 13, Block 11, Plan ET994, Ext 0. - 414 Eisenhower St.
The property will be sold as is.
Tender requirements:
• Bidders are required to review the complete Public Tender Documents for information regarding the conditions of sale and purchaser’s responsibilities regarding the property condition.
• Public Tender Documents are available at townofmidale. com/news/updates or by contacting the Town Office by email at townofmidaleadmin@sasktel.net
• Tenders must be submitted in prescribed form and must be accompanied by a deposit of at least 20% of the tender amount
• The deposit shall be made by way of certified cheque, bank draft or money order payable to the Town of Midale.
• The successful bidder(s) will have 30 days to provide payment in full to complete the purchase.
• The deposit will be forfeited if the successful bidder does not finalize the agreement within 30 days.
•
• The highest or any tender will not necessarily be
leave listeners filled with holiday spirit.
The first concert of 2027 will be held January 25, featuring Oktopus.
Celebrating 15 years and releasing their newest project, Brahms, Balkans & Bagels, Oktopus presents a concert that explores the elements of folklore that inspired great classical composers.
In a virtuosic, moving and unique performance, Oktopus brilliantly blends classical and folk music from Eastern Europe. A recipient of numerous awards, Oktopus is a prominent figure on the Canadian world music scene, with over 300 performances both nationally and internationally.
The group is primarily dedicated to klezmer, the music heritage of Eastern European Jews. They offer a fresh approach that incorporates various elements
of the classical and Québécois repertoire, with some jazz and Balkan accents.
The eight virtuosic musicians deliver a show that is as festive and lively as it is melancholic and profound, adding a sprinkling of stories and humour. This unique experience is sure to be enjoyed by all.
The Arrogant Worms will hit the Cugnet Centre stage on March 20. They have spent over three decades making fun of a big, dumb world. Their songs have been played on the radio, the internet, and even in outer space (on the space shuttle Endeavour).
The Worms began at Queen’s University in 1991 when some members of the student cabaret group, The Queen’s Players, started writing songs and sketches for the campus radio station CFRC.
Soon the group became The Arrogant Worms
(Chris Patterson, Mike McCormick, and Trevor Strong), who have since toured ceaselessly across Canada and abroad.
They have released 14 albums, and are generously supported by their fervent, and occasionally feverish, fanbase.
Their song, “The Last Saskatchewan Pirate”, has been covered by many bands, and is always a crowd pleaser. This show will be sure to keep everyone entertained.
Wrapping up the 20262027 season on April 10, will be The Johner Brothers, a local fan favourite.
In 1991, The Johner Brothers took the Canadian country music audience by storm. Brad and Ken were named “Duo of the Year” by the Canadian Country Music Association, kicking off a string of awards.
After being crowned “Entertainer of the Dec -
ade” and releasing a remarkable 26 singles from six hit albums, Ken retired from the music business in 2022.
Brad continued with a hugely successful solo career, recording six highly praised albums and awarded “Male Artist of the Year” by the CCMS.
The Johner Brothers are back together and looking forward to a busy year playing shows across western Canada.
Backed by two of Brad’s sons, the show is a fresh version of what Johner fans have come to expect from these astute professionals and true gentlemen of the stage.
All concerts are held at the Cugnet Centre and begin at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets go on sale July 1, 2026. To purchase tickets, visit www.weyburnconcertseries.ca or www. showpass.com.
OILFIELD DIRECTORY
Legacy Park Elementary School students Keston, Emerson, Dre, Aurora and Lexi learned what should go into a first aid kit from paramedic Joel Rogers, right. The first aid booth was one of many demonstrations held during the Ag. Society’s Safety Day on June 10.
