Weyburn This Week - June 19, 2025 by Weyburn Review/ Weyburn This Week

Art meets nature: Get

Sara Parks SaskToday.ca

The innovative Get Out Gallery is back, transforming Weyburn’s River Park into an open-air art space. Now in its second year, the pop-up exhibition brings curated artwork into the heart of the community.

The brainchild of Regan Lanning, Curator and Arts Coordinator for the City of Weyburn, the Get Out Gallery is a summer-only initiative designed to break down barriers between art and everyday life.

“Our summers here are so short, so I thought it was a great way to get the art out of the gallery and into the parks full of people enjoying the beautiful summer weather,” said Lanning.

The project took years to launch due to fabrication costs, but support poured

in from organizations like Southeast District for Sport, Culture and Recreation, Prairie Sky CoOp, Weyburn Oilwomen, Young Fellows Wives, and Art Farm.

“There was also a donation made by a couple local artists who wish to remain anonymous,” she added.

Lanning credits inspiration to Amber Anderson, former curator of the Estevan Art Gallery, who pioneered similar outdoor displays.

It differs from the art in the gallery because it’s only three pieces instead of the usual 15-30 pieces required for a gallery exhibition.

“I love our gallery, and I find it to be such a safe and welcoming place, but I also recognize that the Gallery can be intimidating

to folks who don’t come regularly. This exhibition goes to the people, instead of the people coming to us. Its relaxed, and completely accessible.”

Public art is a great “gateway” gallery experience, said Lanning.

“No pressure on the viewer, no special trip to the gallery required. Plus, public art is great for the health of a community. It creates a sense of ownership amongst community members and increases civic pride.

The Get Out Gallery is part of Lanning’s broader push to bring art out of the gallery.

“COVID changed the way I saw art presentation, because we lost access to our gallery for months,” she said. “I had to pivot, and find other ways of get-

ting the art to the people. The Get Out Gallery is one aspect of this shift, the other being the mural project in Jubilee Park.”

Visitors can explore the exhibits at their own pace along River Park’s pathways.

“I am working on a public art walking tour, which will be accessible via the City of Weyburn Website, but that won’t be ready until next summer,” said Lanning.

Last year the three works were by three different artists, Rickee Lee, Brad Istace and Max Himsl. This year, River Park hosts three pieces by Saskatchewan artisit Lorena Squires, all displayed in durable, weather-resistant metal cases funded by local sponsors.

We’ve received a lot of

support for the community,” said Lanning. “Lots of positive feedback about this and the mural program.”

Lanning encourages locals to snap photos with the art, share them on social

River Park

media, and tag the Weyburn Art Gallery/Weyburn Arts Council.

“We sure love to see Weyburnites and visitors enjoying what we offer,” said Lanning.

Weyburn Comprehensive graduates Brittany Barber, Jaycelyn Goebel, Keighley Buss and Brinlee Klapak strike a pose during the annual parade, held June 14.

Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

COMMUNITY

Games and activities held at Wheatland Senior Centre

The Wheatland Senior Centre held many games and activities recently.

In Spades on June 2, Erskine Sandiford won first, Marge Schultz placed second and Ernest Lokken finished third.

In Spades on June 9, Theresa Istace won first, Janet Vanwinkoop took second and Erskine Sandiford placed third.

In Kaiser on June 3, Theresa Istace and Betty Knibbs won first, Lavine Stepp and Eva Morley placed second, and Mildred Sandiford and Coral Schindel finished third.

In Kaiser on June 10, Theresa Istace and Jean Fahlman won first, Marg Schultz and Fay Johnson placed second, and Marlene Szczecinski and Eva Morley finished third.

In Canasta on June 4, Brenda Paul won first, Cris Herlick won second, Marg Warnke took third, Pat Peterson placed fourth, and Kathy Carson was fifth.

In Canasta on June

11, Marge Warnke won first, Eveline Porte placed second, Elaine Frasz took third, Marlene Szczecinski placed fourth, and Shirley Hubbs finished fifth.

In Hi-Low Whist on June 4, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson won first, Gladys Lokken and Sharon Eggum finished second, and Brenda Paul and Dave Frayn took third place.

In Hi-Low Whist on June 11, Janet Vanwinkoop and Emily Zyla took first, Fay Johnson and Marge Schultz won second, and Yvonne Von Hagen and Willa Mae Donald finished third.

In Thursday crib on June 5, Ruth Boren and Garnet Bartlett won first, Shirley Hubbs and Theresa Istace placed second, and Garth White and Dave Frayn finished third.

In Thursday crib on June 12, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson won first, Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla placed second, and Sheila Greiner and Stan

Hubick finished third.

In Friday Bridge on June 13, Erskine Sandiford won first, Lucie Nickel placed second, and Jean Knibbs finished third.

In Friday Shuffleboard on June 13, Ron Frayn and Yvette Bauche won first, Mel Schindel and Kathryn Groshong placed second, and Bert Sanquin and Willa Mae Donald took third.

A cribbage tournament was held at the Wheatland Senior Centre on June 7. Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla won first, Dave Frayn and Garth White placed second, and Elaine Frasz and Brenda Paul finished in third place.

There were nine tables at the tournament and a record 11 door prizes, due to the generosity of three players who attended all 20 tournaments. One of the lucky door prize winners won $500 on a scratch ticket. Next tournament will be held on September 12, and the Wheatland Centre invite all new players.

City proclaims Pride Week with ‘Beyond the Rainbow’ as theme

Sara Parks SaskToday.ca

The City of Weyburn officially proclaimed June 1521 as Pride Week with this year’s theme, “Beyond the Rainbow: Education, Celebration, and Inclusion.”

The proclamation, issued by Mayor Jeff Richards on June 11, highlights the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQIA2+ individuals, both globally and locally. Hate crimes, harassment and discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender iden-

tity remain pervasive, often going unpunished in many parts of the world, said Richards.

“Even in Weyburn, fear of violence or prejudice forces some to conceal their true selves,” he said. Pride events are about human rights, the proclamation states. They empower LGBTQIA2+ individuals to celebrate their existence and perseverance in public spaces where they have historically been excluded. Visibility, the mayor emphasized, is crucial in chal-

lenging marginalization and fostering acceptance. Canada is home to more than one million who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, queer/ questioning/ intersex, asexual, or Two-Spirt. Pride Week serves as a reminder of the progress made, and the work still needed, to ensure equality and safety for all, said Richards. Events throughout the week will offer opportunities for learning, connection, and advocacy, ensuring that the message of Pride extends beyond the rainbow.

For more details on Pride Week activities, visit the City of Weyburn’s official website of local LGBTQIA2+ organizations.

A Pride-themed table was set up at Weyburn City Hall on June 16, during the flag raising ceremony to kick off Pride Week. A number of activities will be held this week, celebrating the Pride Week theme: ‘Beyond the Rainbow: Education, Celebration, and Inclusion’.

Photo – Leslie Coulter/Weyburn Review

St. Michael’s School students and Red Wing mascot, Howie, promote new Ag. Safety Day t-shirts, while attending this year’s event, hosted by the Weyburn Agricultural Society on June 10. From left are Maci Stainbrook, Emily Eramus, Tatum Purdue and Lyla Bartlett.

This year,we’rechanginghow we distribute equity cheques. Instead of handing them out in person, they’ll be maileddirectly to your home.Noneed to line up—just keep an eyeonyour mailbox!

Additionally, we will NOTbehosting traditional Equity Week BBQs this year.Instead, we’re excited to announce Customer Appreciation Events coming at various dates at our branch locations andamajor eventplanned for Weyburn laterthisyear. Stay tuned—moredetailswill be shared soon!

We arealso committed to continuouslyimprovingour facilities. In the last2 years, weinvested $9.1 million to upgrade our infrastructure,ensuring we can better serve our customers now and into the future. All equity cheques shouldbe receivedinthe mail by July31, 2025. Based on 2024 purchases, Prairie Sky Co-opallocated $1.1 million back to itsmembers. Just over $766,000 totalcashwill be paid outtomembers, making the totalcashbeing paid out since incorporationover $61million

FROM THE SIDELINES: IS THERE ANY SUBSTANCE TO THE ROYALTY REACH?

Norm Park/SaskToday.ca

Pomp and circumstance? Naw, not so much.

But, maybe we can explore the world of monarchy versus democracy via diplomacy?

As some have noted in the past, symbolism is sometimes elevated to substance levels and it’s here where we can maybe find some acceptance as Canadians who still acknowledge the British monarchy for what it is. Then maybe we can discuss what it can be and what we, as Canadian citizens can be and maybe want to be.

We don’t have any constitutional monarchy holding us down, but when the royals come for a visit or make their presence felt, we may generally embrace the moments and recognize what they can bring to the table.

The U.K’s style of monarchy now backs us up. It doesn’t fiddle with our democracy, but rather chooses to add to it, when requested. And that is one major difference. Britain’s royalty knows when it’s not wanted or needed, but is happy to step into the light, when invited but is very reluctant to enter into any democratically induced fray we might have subjected ourselves to within the 10 provinces and three territories.

I mean hey, we don’t have to love the royals and they no longer expect us to. We’ve both learned lessons over the decades and centuries.

What I’m suggesting then is that while people like me are genuinely not Monarchists in nature and bearing, we maybe do see that the positives often outweigh the negatives when it comes to the royals.

Yes, when they arrive, we pay for the visit in terms of security and public functions or when we pay a salary to the Governor General and Lieut. Governors and staff, we are paying a price to still be involved. So, is it worth it?

I maintain yes. We’ve spent millions on lots of useless

items and people and at least the royals try to do the right thing while delivering positive messages.

Mock the monarchs if you wish, but they can still tell us something and help us advance democracy and we don’t need to go overboard on that aforementioned pomp and circumstance thing.

For me, I’d rather invest in a royal carriage or a cleaned-up RCMP uniform, a polished military airplane or a King Charles coin than a $60 MAGA baseball cap, and a painful crypto coin paying tribute and direct cash to the wanna-be autocrat next door.

And yes, we’ve experienced good royalty and bad royalty over the generations but overall the crown has stood firm with a steady message of symbolism and support.

Autocrats don’t like that sort of thing and when they get traction their populations begin to disappear rather than thrive. And yep, under the early monarchies, it was much the same, but along the trail, as the years and educational forays exploded, the royals learned the lessons that democracy demanded of them. That’s why Canada was able to embrace democracy without a major fight as did a whole bunch of other nations large and small. There was a backup plan crafted by knowledgeable leaders. We were able to embrace the game-changers, not the game-breakers.

So, I suggest we continue to embrace the positives of royalty, even if it costs us a few toonies and loonies. They represent alliance, acceptance, tensile strength on the world stage and good governance.

When we request the services of a Lieut Governor or Governor General, they are genuinely agreeable to step up or step in and help in a significant manner without taking over. The help is there if we want it and ask for it to resolve any issue that deals with Canadianism and democracy. That’s a positive in my mind.

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All we have to do is look at other countries that are not blessed with this kind of backup. When they hit a hard road they resort to making stuff up to fill their gaps in governance and that leads to disasters of their own making. I need not point out the obvious examples.

These are countries that end up moving backwards. They engage in movements that are sketchy and baseless. They have no democratic mentorships so their selfselected governments and agencies and armies struggle to serve the masses because there are no options, no history to rely on for corrections because the leadership ignores those elements. They are their own muses and geniuses.

Autocrats serve themselves rather than react to a higher calling of serving the general populations. That would require positive, clear thinking and the autocrats don’t want to think about genuine leadership, they just want to serve themselves and their immediate family of acolytes and minions. They have no governance agenda, just yachts, private jets and hidden mansions (hello Mr. Putin). They cling to the old ruse of “me” not “we” and when they can’t be check-mated into a corner, they thrive, untested and out for perceived revenge.

The British royalty learned long ago that was a fateful path. They found the right path, and sans a few glitches along the way (hello Prince Andrew), have provided their former colonies with a spirited hell ya, we can help, but only if you want us!

After all, our national anthem is O’ Canada, not God Save the King. We have our own flag, and have saluted it for over 70 years, but we still like to show up and cheer a little bit when a royal representative arrives on our land to applaud us. I guess we might call it a mutual admiration society and just leave it at that.

It’s much better than the alternative I would think.

Native Prairie Appreciation week celebrated in Saskatchewan

The province of Saskatchewan will celebrate the beauty, biodiversity and cultural importance of native prairie ecosystems, as the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture recognizes June 15 to 21 as Native Prairie Appreciation Week in Saskatchewan.

Native Prairie Appreciation Week raises awareness about the significance of these vital ecosystems that provide environmental, economic and cultural benefits to our province and beyond.

“Native prairie plays a key role in conserving Saskatchewan’s rich biodiversity and offers essential ecological services such as carbon storage, soil protection and species diversity,” said Environment Minister Travis Keisig. “This year, we also celebrate a major achievement - the completion of the Prairie Landscape Inventory, which maps the full extent of native grassland across Saskatchewan’s Prairie Ecozone.”

A product of seven years of dedication, the Prairie Landscape Inventory will support programs, policy and decisionmaking to drive strategic conservation and restoration initiatives across the Sas-

katchewan prairie. Our mapping estimates that the Prairie Ecozone contains about 16 per cent native grassland which provides habitat for wildlife, birds and pollinators; forage for livestock; carbon sequestration; nutrient cycling; and natural water filtration and retention. The ecoregions with the highest amounts of native prairie are the Mixed Grassland and the Cypress Upland Ecoregions, with each ecoregion having about 35 per cent native prairie.

“Healthy, thriving grasslands are an essential natural resource for us all, and they have special importance and meaning for our agriculture sector,” said Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison. “Our livestock producers take pride in being stewards of the land, and that relationship inspires their continued commitment to good management to help safeguard our native prairie.”

“Native Prairie Appreciation Week is a great opportunity to educate and engage with people with diverse backgrounds about native prairie, which is one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world,” said Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan (SK PCAP) Manager Carolyn Gaudet.

The City of Weyburn Walk of Fame committee revealed a special plaque in honour of the late Councillor Dick Michel, recognizing his many years of dedicated service as Chair of the Walk of Fame Committee. This tribute celebrated not only his dedication to uplifting the achievements of others, but also the lasting impact he made on a community he held close to his heart. From left are Jerry Ponto, Mayor Jeff Richards, Karla Kennedy, Councillor Morrissette, Audrey Michel (wife of Dick Michel), Kathy Coroluick and Dale Renz. Missing from the photo was Paige Tenbult.

A shriek in the cemetery: Loggerhead Shrikes, a macabre songbird

Spring has sprung! With the return of the warmer weather our favourite birds have also arrived; ready to start their breeding season on the prairies. One of these species to return is our favourite gruesome little songbird, the Loggerhead Shrike. This predatory songbird, well known for their habit of impaling their prey on thorns or barbs, is on the lookout for ideal habitat; with pairs building nests and getting ready to lay eggs. Late May to early June is a great time to spot returning shrikes, as they are very active finding their perfect spots! What is the ideal habitat for a predatory songbird? One of the best places to see shrikes while you are out and about may surprise youor not, as it is quite fitting for a bird with such spooky habitats. Shrikes can readily be found in prairie cemeteries across Southern Saskatchewan, nesting in the old growth trees and shrubs that usually border the fenceline of these areas.

“If you are visiting a loved one this summer in such a place, keep an eye out for these striking black, white, and grey birds!” Emily Putz, Shrubs for Shrikes coordinator with Nature Saskatchewan explains, “They have a distinct shrieking alarm call to keep an ear out for as well.”

Loggerhead Shrikes prefer cemeteries not just because flitting among gravestones fits their reputation, but because of the habitat cemeteries provide. “Prairie cemeteries are usually surrounded by pasture or crop, and the grass within them is usually mowed short, all ideal hunting areas to catch mice and insects,” Putz further explains,”

Paired with older growth shelterbelts, these areas really do form oases of habitat on our changing landscape. For these reasons shrikes also prefer and can be found in abandoned yard sites, golf courses, and ball diamonds as well!”

The Loggerhead Shrike has been listed as a threatened species since the

1980s, with their range, once spanning the entirety of the prairie provinces, contracting to be mainly focused in Southern Saskatchewan and parts of SE Alberta. Habitat loss is

the main driver of their decline, with the loss of both native prairie, and their adapted habitat of shelterbelts, disappearing.

Nature Saskatchewan runs a voluntary steward-

ship program, Shrubs for Shrikes, that works with rural landholders to conserve and monitor this species at risk. If you see a Loggerhead Shrike, or impaled prey, call the toll free

HOOTline at 1-800-6674668 or email outreach@ naturesask.ca. Personal information is never shared without permission and every sighting helps this species’ recovery!

Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review

SPORTS

Beavers rally in eighth to defeat Regina, lose twice to Saskatoon

Randy Palmer SaskToday.ca

The Beavers and Red Sox found themselves in a pitching duel on June 13 and were tied 1-1 through the first six innings before Weyburn took the lead with a pair in the seventh. Regina rallied with three in the top of the eighth for a 4-3 edge, but Weyburn would come right back with four in their half of the inning and go on to secure the victory.

Owen McConnell continued his stellar start to the campaign for the Beavers with a quality start that saw him give up a single run on six hits over six innings while striking out seven. He now has the third-best earned run average among WCBL starters at 1.29.

Logan Kinter would end up with the win after allowing only two hits over the final one and twothird innings.

As good as McConnell has been, Blake Johnson has been even better for Regina and had an impressive showing of his own on Thursday, giving up a single run on four hits over six innings and striking out eight. That run was the first Johnson has given up in three starts this season, with his WCBL secondbest ERA now sitting at 0.56.

Nicolas Yard was the losing pitcher after giving up four runs on three hits while pitching the seventh and eighth.

Ryan Dauphinee led Weyburn at the plate with a 3-for-5 effort that included a triple, run and four RBI.

Jaden Collura went 2-for-3 with a triple, run and two RBI for Regina. Weyburn improved to 4-7 and are fifth in the East

Division, Regina fell to 6-5 and are in third place.

Saskatoon 12, Weyburn 5

After a close start, the Berries pulled away with four runs in the fourth and tacked on another four in the seven to win their fifth straight and league-best 12th of the season.

Ethan Menard went 3-for-5 with a pair of doubles, crossing the plate three times and knocking in a pair. Nate Houston and Cory Wouters were each 3-for-4 with a pair of runs scored.

Noah Brooks and Brayden Mayencourt each hit balls out of Cairns Field for Weyburn, with Brooks going 3-for-5 with two runs and three RBI while Mayencourt was 2-for-5. Ian Heck also had three hits.

Matt Whitney had another quality start for the Berries, giving up two runs on six hits over six innings to secure the win.

Dylan Parton took the loss but was victimized by untimely errors, allowing seven runs, three earned, on nine hits over four innings.

Saskatoon is now 12-2 on the campaign and first in the East, Medicine Hat is right behind them at 11-5 and in second.

WCBL action continues Sunday with Weyburn at Saskatoon (1 p.m.), Medicine Hat at Regina (2 p.m.) and Swift Current at Moose Jaw (2:05 p.m.). Saskatoon 13, Weyburn 4

The Berries fell behind 4-2 in the third inning but took the lead for good with three in fourth before tacking on another four runs in the fifth as they pulled away.

Ethan Menard had another solid outing for

Saskatoon, going 4-for5 with two runs and two runs batted in to boost his batting average .456, second best in the WCBL.

Mason Roell had a single hit but knocked in four runs, while Ethan Mur -

doch was 2-for-2 with two runs and two RBI.

Brayden Mayencourt led Weyburn with a 2-for4 effort that included a run scored and an RBI.

Robert Bonilla was the winning pitcher even with

some bad luck with errors, allowing four runs, none earned on five hits over five innings while striking out four.

Gram Middleton took the loss, giving up five runs on six hits over 3 ⅓ innings and striking out six.

Saskatoon improves to 13-2 with their sixth straight win and are first in the East, Weyburn falls to 4-10 and are fifth in the East.

Mryglod/Hallberg take Crocus Open

The Crocus Men’s Open golf tournament was held June 14 and 15 at the Weyburn Golf Course with 42 golfers attending. Saturday started off at

10:00 a.m. with a shotgun start. Tyler Mryglod carded a 68 on opening day, followed by Landon Emberley with a 71 and Brad Piero with a 73.

In the senior division, Rick Hallberg finished the day with a 76, followed by Tony Heath with a 77 and Pat Murphy with a 79.

two-day total of

Following the first round of play, a horserace took place with the top 10 players facing off. Nolan Rohatyn came out on top, followed by Darien Herlick in second and Carter Hilkewich in third.

On day two of the competition, Mryglod continued his fine play, shooting a 70 to capture the tournament with a two-day total of 138 (-6). Second place went to Landon Emberley with 146, followed in third by Brad Piero with a 148. Gerhard Groenewald 150, Darien Herlick 152, Brandon Morrice 153, Carter Hilkewich 154, Tyler Hollar 155, Chad Bailey 156 and Richie Lee 158 rounded out the top ten.

In the senior division, Hallberg upped the ante on day two, shooting a 71 to take top honours with a 147. Mike Ross took second place with 159, followed by Tony Heath with a 160. Greg Nixon 161, Pat Murphy 163, Stacy Barnes 169, Terry Rohatyn 171, Jim Linnell 171, Darren Miller 175 and Kelly Hilkewich 178 rounded out the 10 ten spots.

Weyburn Beavers outfielder, Noah Brooks, slid into second base, during a home game against the Regina Red Sox on June 10.

Tyler Mryglod, left, finished in first place shooting a two-day total six under, 138, to take the Crocus Men’s Open golf tournament over the weekend. Rick Hallberg took the senior division with a

147.

Photo – Courtesy Hiighway

Pitcher, Keaton Husband, and catcher, Ryker Smith, from the Weyburn Beavers of the WCBL stopped by a practice to share their expertise in pitching and catching. The young athletes were all ears, and all smiles, as they picked up tips from the pros.

‘Winning

the Grey Cup’:

Riders’ Campbell wants to add CFL championship to his resume

Allan Ly SaskToday.ca

Saskatchewan Roughriders’ defensive back Tevaughn Campbell believes the Green and White can win a championship and cross that item off his bucket list.

“My main focus is on winning the Grey Cup. I spent so long not getting to the big game that I’m more focused on winning this Grey Cup, getting a ring and having the hardware to show for it,” Campbell told the Rider Broadcast Network. “It wasn’t too much about the [contract] numbers, it was coming back and winning.”

“This team is as capable as anyone else and to be honest, we have a great shot at getting it this year,” Campbell said about contending for the 2025 Grey Cup. “We’re gonna go to it this year, so wait until November and see us there.”

The 31-year-old Campbell gives credit to Riders’ head coach Corey Mace and his coaching staff for why the team has cham -

pionship confidence.

“The coaches instill it in you from day one of camp,” Campbell recalled. “If you look at our coaches and our coaching staff, it’s people who play, people who know the game, people who have been in our positions that are setting us up for success.”

Campbell pointed out why Mace has a winning record as the Saskatchewan’s bench boss.

“He doesn’t treat you like you’re playing on a team that I coach. He treats you like an individual that is equal to everyone in that room, in that building,” Campbell said.

“You’re not just a player; you’re a person, first and foremost, so you have a lot of say in what goes on behind the camera. It’s not a hierarchy, he doesn’t stand at the top and say: ‘These are the rules; listen to what I say.’ He lets you play free

and be who you are.”

Campbell explained how he maintains his elite speed and athleticism as a professional athlete.

“Good sleep, water, good diet, good food and believing you can do it,” Campbell said. “At one point I sat back and said: ‘Is this the peak of my athleticism?’ That was probably like five years ago -- it wasn’t.”

Campbell spent time in the NFL from 2019 through 2024 and could not decide on what he considered to be his favourite moment.

“Being around great people, I know it sounds cliché,” Campbell said. “The connections you make with people... I made a lot of great friends, a lot of brothers and being able to hold those relationships near and dear to my heart means a lot.”

The Roughriders travel to Toronto to face the Argonauts on Friday.

Saskatchewan Farms & Ranches

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• GRENFELL: 319 ACRES: 260 cult., rented for 25/26, 416,100 assesslk 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

The Seven Stars Energy Project will bring many beneﬁts to the Weyburn and Griffin region.

• 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

Southeast Saskatchewan Oil Industry Update

Photo – Courtesy Bill Allen Photography

Opinion: Canada treats energy as a liability, the world sees it as power

By Marco Navarro-Genie

As Prime Minister Mark Carney met with U.S. President Donald Trump recently, energy should have been the issue behind every headline, whether mentioned or not. Canada’s future as a sovereign, economically resilient country will depend in no small part on whether the country seizes this moment or stalls out again in a fog of regulatory inertia and political ambivalence.

Canada holds an underleveraged strategic card: the potential to be the world’s most reliable democratic energy supplier. Recent trade figures show Chinese imports of Canadian crude hit a record 7.3 million barrels in March, a direct result of newly expanded access to the Pacific via the

Trans Mountain Expansion (TMX), a federally owned pipeline project that now connects Alberta crude to global markets through British Columbia’s coast. But one pipeline does not make a national strategy.

Demand in Asia is growing fast. India is among the hungriest, but Canada’s infrastructure is nowhere near meeting that demand. This matters not just for Canada, but for the United States as well. In a world where energy markets are weaponized and strategic reserves manipulated by authoritarian regimes, the case for a coordinated North American energy alliance is stronger than ever. Such an alliance should not erode national sovereignty. It should reinforce it, allowing Canada, the U.S. and Mexico to insu-

late themselves collectively from supply shocks and geopolitical blackmail while projecting democratic strength abroad.

But for that alliance to work, Canada must be a credible partner, not merely a junior supplier shackled by self-inflicted internal bottlenecks. While the U.S. has leveraged its shale revolution, LNG capacity and permitting reforms to pursue energy dominance, Canada dithers. Projects languish. Investment flees. And meanwhile, Canadian oil continues to flow south at a steep discount, only to be refined and resold, often back to us or our trading partners, at full global prices.

Yes, you read that right. Canada’s oil and gas is sold at a discount to U.S. customers, and that dis -

count costs Canada more than $70 million every single day. The Frontier Centre for Public Policy has developed a real-time tracker to monitor these losses. This pricing gap exists because Canada lacks sufficient pipeline infrastructure to access overseas buyers directly, forcing producers to sell to the U.S., often at belowmarket rates.

Such massive losses should be unacceptable to any government serious about economic growth, geopolitical influence or environmental integrity. Yet Ottawa continues to speak the language of ambition while legislating the mechanics of paralysis. Stephen Guilbault’s statement that Canada already has enough pipelines speaks to more paralysis.

Canada’s energy infrastructure challenges are not just economic; they are matters of national defence. No country can claim to be secure while relying on another’s pipelines to transport its energy across its own territory. No country can afford to leave its wealth-producing regions boxed in by regulatory choke points or political resistance dressed as environmental virtue.

Our energy economy is fragmented. Western hydrocarbons are stuck inland and must pass through the U.S. to reach Eastern Canada or global markets eastward. This weakens national unity and leaves us exposed to foreign leverage. It also creates strategic vulnerabilities for our allies. American industries depend on Canadian crude.

Napa Weyburn hosted a tool and equipment event and fundraising barbecue on June 13. The Weyburn Young Fellows volunteered by manning the barbecue. A donation from the event went to Mending Little Hearts on behalf of Napa staff member, Brasen Sim. Pictureed left to right, Ray Jarvis, Allyson Van Roon, Joni Schweitzer, Brasen Sim and Aaron Cugnet.

So do U.S. Gulf Coast refineries. And while American officials continue to treat energy as a tool of diplomacy and economic leverage, using energy exports to build alliances and reduce reliance on unstable regimes, Canada treats it as a domestic liability. We need to shift the frame. Infrastructure isn’t just about steel in the ground; it’s the backbone of strategic autonomy. Pipelines, export terminals and utility corridors would allow Canada to claim its place in the emerging geopolitical order. They would also signal to global investors that Canada is open for business and capable of delivering returns without political obstruction.

The U.S. wants a stable, competent partner to help meet global energy needs. Increasingly, so does the rest of the world. But until we address our internal dysfunction and build, we’re stuck. Stuck watching global opportunities pass us by. Stuck selling low while others sell high. Stuck in a conversation about sovereignty we’re not structurally equipped to address, let alone win.

When Carney meets with Trump again, he would do well to remember that economic independence, not rhetorical unity, is the bedrock of sovereignty. Without infrastructure, Canada brings only words to a hard-power conversation.

Paraphrasing Thomas Hobbes, energy covenants without infrastructure are but words. It’s time to stop posturing and start building. Marco is the vice-president of research at the Frontier Centre for Public Policy

Highways Minister kicks off province-wide Summer Road Tour

Highways Minister David Marit is going on a province-wide tour to drive the Saskatchewan road network and meet with communities to hear their highways priorities.

Marit has already visited the communities and surrounding areas of Norquay, Tisdale, Davidson, Cudworth, Elfros, Prince Albert and multiple rural municipalities.

“Discussions with the communities so far have been great for hearing about what the people in the area are seeing and what their priorities are,” Marit said.

“I look forward to continuing this tour throughout the summer months, driving on the highways I am hearing about and meeting with as many people as I can on how we can best deliver the road infrastructure they need and deserve.”

The road tour will continue through the summer months with plans to head

to all areas of the province including the northern and the western regions.

The Ministry of Highways 2025-26 Budget of $777 million is a road map to enhance driver safety and invest in strategic infrastructure to sustain Saskatchewan’s exportbased economy.

With this year’s budget, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $13.8 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 21,800 km of highways across the province.

Highways ministers from Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba have met to talk about improving shared transportation systems between the three provinces, one year after the provinces signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) pledging to work together to strengthen economic corridors supporting the country’s supply chains.

Youth Apprenticeship Industry Scholarship awarded to local students

One hundred graduating high school students from across the province have been awarded the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) Industry Scholarship. The scholarships, presented by the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC), recognize students committed to pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

“Congratulations to this year’s scholarship recipients,” Deputy Premier

and Immigration and Career Training Minister Jim Reiter said. “The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to support your path to a successful career in the skilled trades. Our government understands how critical skilled trades are to the success and growth of Saskatchewan and is committed to ensuring everyone in the province has the opportunity to pursue these important and rewarding careers.”

Promotional poster

for the 2024-2025 SYA Industry Scholarships. Highlights include: 100 scholarships for high school graduates entering skilled trades, each worth $1,000; funded by 59 sponsors; awarded to students in 71 communities across Saskatchewan. Includes icons for students, money, sponsors, and communities, with a web link at the bottom.

Each year, SYA Champions - the educators who oversee the SYA program

in their schools - are invited to nominate at least one graduating student enrolled in the program who is pursuing a career in the skilled trades after high school. A selection committee of SATCC staff members chooses the winners based on students’ responses in the nomination form. Students outline how SYA has benefitted them; their current experiences with the skilled trades; and their education and career plans following graduation.

SYA Industry Scholarships are unique - students redeem them for $1,000 within two years of graduation by actively embarking on a career in the skilled trades, either by registering as an apprentice and completing Level 1 technical training or by completing a preemployment course in a trade designated in Saskatchewan.

One of the recipients, Tia Kingdon, is graduating from Rocanville School this year. Kingdon discov-

ered her passion for the skilled trades through a career and work exploration class through her high school and plans to apprentice as a Construction Electrician.

Student receives SYA Industry Scholarship certificate in front of a trophy display.

“In Grade 11, I did a career and work exploration credit [with an electrical company], and it was such a great experience,” she said. “[It] proved that entering the workforce in an apprenticeship program is how I would like to begin my career.”

To complete SYA, students work through 12 challenges - everything from interviewing a journeyperson to researching and writing a report on a designated trade to outlining the steps to journeyperson certification. All students who complete SYA and register as apprentices in Saskatchewan within five years receive significant benefits: 300 trade hours, plus the

waiver of their apprenticeship registration fee and Level 1 technical training tuition.

“Graduates of the SYA program learn about the benefits and opportunities that come with careers in the skilled trades, as well as gain valuable benefits when they register as apprentices,” SATCC CEO Jeff Ritter said. “The SYA Industry Scholarship recipients have worked hard to demonstrate they are committed to pursuing apprenticeship and the skilled trades after graduation.”

Since the scholarship’s launch in 2009, more than 1,400 awards have been issued. Funding has been provided by 59 industry sponsors, including employers, industry associations and unions, alongside the Government of Saskatchewan. To date, $1.2 million has been invested in the SYA Industry Scholarship fund.

More than 3,100 students are currently enrolled in the SYA program province-wide.

A service rig is still during road bans, accented by a cotton candy sky.

Photo – Courtesy Bill Allen Photography

Saskatchewan program sees success in cleaning up inactive oil wells

For the second straight year, the number of inactive oil wells in Saskatchewan has been reduced through the Inactive Liability Reduction Program (ILRP), which is administered by the Ministry of Energy and Resources. As of January 2025, there were 1,083 fewer inactive wells compared to when the ILRP was first launched in 2023.

“In addition to responsibly developing Saskatchewan’s natural resources, our ministry is the provincial oil and gas regulator, a role we take extremely seriously,” Energy and Resources

Minister Colleen Young

said. “The ILRP shows how we regulate the sector in a way that shields taxpayers from liability risks, protects the environment and facilitates growth. We are fortunate to have reliable oil producers in our province who ensure they are investing in responsible and sustainable resource development.”

The ILRP sets spending targets for oil producers to manage and decommission inactive facilities in a timely and responsible manner. In 2024, oil producers spent more than $228 million on these costs, nearly doubling the ministry target of $116 million.

“Saskatchewan’s oil and natural gas producers continuously strive to lower the environmental footprint of their operations and the ILRP enables industry to manage facilities through the final stage of the project lifecycle,” Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers President and CEO Lisa Baiton said. “Reducing the number of inactive wells and facilities in the province is an incredibly important responsibility for oil and gas producers, and their commitment to the program was demonstrated by the industry nearly doubling the ministry’s funding

target. The success of the ILRP in its first two years is an example of how the best solutions come when industry and government work together.”

The Ministry of Energy and Resources has a successful track record of developing and administering several different clean-up programs for the oil and gas sector. Since 2010, the Saskatchewan oil and gas orphan fund secures contractors using industry funding to properly decommission orphaned oil facilities. Additionally, the Accelerated Site Clos-

ure Program, which closed in 2023, allocated $400 million in federal funding to properly decommission 9,823 oil wells in the province, along with thousands of other related facilities and sites. For more information about the Government of Saskatchewan’s liability management programs, please visit saskatchewan.ca.

The sun sets behind a drilling rig, in a picturesque iconic southeast Saskatchewan scene.

ECS valedictorian reminds grads of great

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

Emmalee Ursu used her valedictorian’s speech at the Estevan Comprehensive School’s graduation ceremony to reflect on her experiences and thank those who helped her over the years.

Ursu, who had a 97.54 average, reminded the students during the June 14 convocation at Affinity Place that they had a “unique” start to their high school experience in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. They endured the three-hour classes that they hated and even went through online learning.

But they also had fun times, such as a dunk tank, an ice cream truck, board games, “chaotic” musical chairs and taping principal James Jones to

a wall during their Grade 10 talent show.

“There’s something cool about the memories we get to share that future grades won’t understand in the same way,” said Ursu. “That’s a way that our high school experience will stay with us.”

So many people have helped her reach this point. Her parents always encouraged her to do her best, reminded her of what she needed to do, proofread her assignments and helped with projects when she was younger.

“We all have some sort of parent figure in our lives that we’re able to count on throughout these past four years, but also before that,” said Ursu.

Friends pushed her out of her comfort zone, motivated her and were

great to be around for high school. Teachers and coaches wanted to see the youths succeed, not only as students but also as people.

“There are teachers and coaches who have made a positive impact on our experiences here, and they will be missed.”

Ursu also thanked God for the traits she has, and Ursu said each student was created uniquely with different passions and callings. She predicted her peers would do different things to contribute to society.

“I would be lost in almost any of shops, which many of you here do [well]. Some of us have no idea what to do next year, and even though they used to tell us we have to have it all figured out by now, it’s all right not to,” she said.

90-minute, 150-lap Estevan Enduro race decided by 21 secs

SaskToday staff

Twenty-four cars were entered in the Estevan Motor Speedway’s spring Enduro race June 15.

Greg Miller was the winner, as he completed the 150 laps in one hour, 27 minutes and 17 seconds.

Cory Stepp was just 21 seconds back, completing his 150 laps in 1:27.38.

Travis Holma was the first car out with zero laps completed, and Dylan Coffey had the nicest car.

The speedway has been holding a year-end Enduro in the fall for more than 20 years, but this marks one of the first times it has organized a spring version of the race.

The next racing at the speedway will be a regular program June 21, starting at 7 p.m.

Brett Spencer was third with 145 laps in 1:29.51, while Logan Piper had 140 laps in the same time to finish fourth. Brandy Janke was fifth with 139 laps in 1:29.29.

Greg Miller, left, received congratulations from Estevan Motor Speedway board member, Tim Pippus.

times from past 4 years

Ursu asked ECS music teacher Kyle Whitehead to introduce her. He reflected on his experiences with her, noting that he knew Ursu long before she came to ECS, through their involvement with the Estevan Recreational Dance Club. Whitehead was at the dance recitals, running the music and the lights.

“There was always this one student that Miss Brooke (owner Brooke Wilson) had helping her out, and doing anything that she can,” Whitehead said of Ursu. “She was always there, working as a

class helper. She was always Miss Brooke’s right hand, and eventually became one of the teachers of the students,” Whitehead said of Ursu.

When Ursu reached high school, Whitehead always asked her if she would join band. She said no, opting for choir instead. The next year, Whitehead started teaching choral students, and he was able to know Ursu even more.

Whitehead said Ursu’s teachers used words like dependable, responsible, passionate, meticulous, stoic, humble, diligent,

kind, helpful, organized, caring, talented and amazing to describe her.

“Those are only some of the traits that Emmalee possesses and shares with us every day, and I know when she’s off to British Columbia next year, a whole new group of people will have the privilege, as we all have, of getting to know, work with and love this utterly amazing human being,” said Whitehead. People in Estevan will miss her greatly, he said, but it is time for her to make the world a better place.

Firefighters respond to vehicle fires

David Willberg SaskToday.ca

Members of the Estevan Fire Rescue Service were busy with scene calls and community events during the past week.

Firefighters were called to a vehicle fire June 9 in northeast Estevan. Fire Chief Rick Davies said crews responded and located a minor electrical fire. Crews helped extinguish the flames, and he said minor damage was reported.

The following day, firefighters were dispatched

to a commercial fire alarm in northwest Estevan. Crews responded, investigated and determined the alarm was due to maintenance work on the HVAC system. An emergency wasn’t occurring.

On June 13, members were dispatched to a vehicle fire on Highway 47 north near Benson. Crews responded and extinguished it without incident. The vehicle sustained major damage, he said, but no injuries were reported.

The EFRS was dis -

patched to a possible structure fire in northeast Estevan on June 14. Crews responded and confirmed an emergency wasn’t occurring. Davies said a smoke alarm went off for unknown reasons. The EFRS returned to the building later in the day to investigate an active gas detector.

“Again, crews arrived and confirmed no emergency was occurring, and talked with the homeowner about having the HVAC system further investigated by a contractor to locate any issues,” said Davies.

In the community, firefighters sprayed down students at Pleasantdale School during their annual track and field meet, and the EFRS participated in the SMILE Services Estevan Parade on June 13.

Davies said they have additional spray downs scheduled at local schools and they have some tours booked at the fire hall in the final days of the school year.

Southeast College celebrates Estevan campus graduates

David

Willberg SaskToday.ca

The Southeast College’s Estevan campus saluted graduates from its Estevan campus during a June 6 ceremony.

Certificates were presented to more than 70 students, including those in the adult Grade 12, essential skills for the workplace, Grade 12 academic upgrade, continuing care assistant, early childhood education, electrical applied, industrial mechanic applied technician, and heavy equipment truck and transport technician and programs.

Drummers from the Ocean Man First Nations performed as the grads entered the auditorium to start the ceremony and exited to end the celebration. Knowledge keeper Calvin Racette, also from Ocean Man, presented ceremonial tobacco and delivered the opening prayer.

Guest speakers included Estevan-Big Muddy MLA Lori Carr, who is the minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors, and Rural and Remote Health; college board vice-chairwoman Heather Vermeersch; and

college president and CEO Jody Holzmiller.

Vermeersch said graduation day marked the culmination of hard work, perseverance and commitment for students and their support networks.

“Through your studies, you’ve not only gained knowledge and skills, but also show resilience, adaptability and integrity that reflect the values we hold dearly,” said Vermeersch. “You are now well-equipped to thrive in a changing world.”

Holzmiller added she felt an “overwhelming sense of pride and admiration” as she looked at the crowd. The college has the privilege of watching them grow, learn and overcome challenges along the way.

“While I look at the sea of bright, hopeful faces, I’m reminded of countless achievements, challenges and moments of growth that have defined your time here. Each of you has contributed to the rich atmosphere of our college community,” said Holzmiller.

Students have excelled in academics and leader-

ship roles, demonstrating the true spirit of resilience, she said.

When the students walked through the doors of Southeast College, Holzmiller said they were eager but nervous about what the future held. Now they are confident, resilient and capable individuals who worked tirelessly to get to this moment.

“It hasn’t always been easy, but you have navigated the complexities of being an adult student, for some raising a family and working, all while studying; for others, travelling to a brand-new country to receive your education, and you have all persevered. You’ve learned, adapted and emerged stronger for it.”

She encouraged grads to remember the support system they have had throughout the education process.

The college had two valedictorians: Janessa Kolenz for the Adult 12 program and Rochelle Krahn for skills training.

Kolenz noted that when she dropped out of high school, she never thought she would return to school. Everyone at the

college helped her change her mind about education, and helped her realize she could accomplish great things if she was determined and had a good support system.

“Although I was only here for a couple of months, my teachers and classmates made an impact on my life that I will always be grateful for. They were right there beside me, pushing me to be a better person, and I couldn’t thank them enough for all of the support and kindness.”

She has been accepted into the primary care paramedic program in Weyburn this fall.

Krahn noted that 13 years ago, she wanted to enter the early childhood education field, but backed out at the last minute. Now she’s a graduate of the college’s early childhood education program.

“After gaining some life experience and growing as a person and as a mother, I am now more passionate than ever about learning alongside children and deepening my understanding about child development.”

Early childhood asks

her to show up as an educator, guide, encourager, protector and lifelong learner, she said.

She offered a hearty “Congratulations!” to the grads, which garnered plenty of applause.

“We have all grown so much, not just with what we know, but who we are. We laughed together, we cried together, likely more than we’d like to admit, and supported each other.”

Emcee Dean Loberg, the college’s vice-president of academic, teaching and learning, said each graduate took a unique path to the college, but wherever their journey leads next, the college was truly honoured to have them in the college, and the college is “tremendously proud” of what they have accomplished.

“What makes today so special is we’re all gathered here to recognize that variety of achievements, to honour the hard work and growth and the incredible dedication that brought each student to where they are today.”

Each graduate showed determination, perseverance and the courage to

take “bold” steps to a better future, he said. Scholarships were also presented. Recipients were:

• Government of Saskatchewan Opportunity Scholarship: Talan Trail and Rowan Erickson;

• Southeast College Post-Secondary Opportunity Scholarship: Joel Macalalad, Rochelle Krahn, Rowan Erickson, Kaiden Duke, Lydia Bruyere Hanson and Kaden Cooper;

• Vermillion Energy Scholarship: Alexander Churchill, Hunter Andrews and Brody Hadley;

• Board of Governors’ Award for Academic Excellence: Laura O’Hanlon, Serena Liesch and Joel Macalalad.

• President’s Award for Outstanding Student Leadership: Vincent Otoo and Kaiden Duke.

• Southeast College Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Community: Marc Relucio.

Loberg noted that during the college’s different grad ceremonies and the February bursary ceremonies, the college will have provided $75,000 to student support this year, thanks to donors.

The Estevan campus graduates gather for a group photo.

Photo – David Willberg/SaskToday.ca

Thank you to everyone for the condolences in the passing of our mom, Ione Ernst She was a special lady It's a very busy time and we appreciate all who attended the funeral service and luncheon Auntie Patsy, Karla, Auntie Bernice, Charlie and Frankie your participation was greatly appreciated and forever will be remembered Special thank you to everyone who donated on mom's behalf to The Parkinson's Society

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The downtown core was filled with hundreds of vehicles and attendees for the annual event.

Sask. ends U.S. trade countermeasures

John Cairns SaskToday.ca

The Sask Party government is ending the procurement countermeasures that favoured Canadian suppliers and bidders over American ones.

The province had brought in the countermeasures as a retaliatory measure after the sweeping 25 per cent tariffs against Canada imposed by President Donald Trump in March.

Now, the province will return to the process it used before. The government provided this statement to SaskToday: “The Government of Saskatchewan is returning to its standard procurement processes and documentation. This change was made to allow Saskatchewan people the option to choose whether they want to buy these products or consider alternatives.

“The Government of Saskatchewan has demonstrated its commitment to purchasing from Saskatchewan and Canadian suppliers and continues to encourage supporting Saskatchewan and Canadian products whenever there is an option to do so.”

The statement also noted that over the past five

year period, the government had “awarded nearly 90 per cent of all procurements to Saskatchewan companies with more than 99 per cent of procurements awarded to Canadian companies, and less than one per cent awarded to US companies.”

When the province had brought in the procurement changes in March, Premier Scott Moe told reporters that goods and services procured by Government of Saskatchewan Ministries as well as Crown Corporations were “going to make every effort to prioritize Canadian suppliers.” A temporary pause was also placed on capital projects to “reassess how they are moving through the Sask Builds procedure.”

The decision to return to the previous procurement policy comes on the heels of the federal government quietly dropping a number of its own retaliatory tariffs against the USA, amid rumours of a potential trade deal being negotiated. It also comes on the heels of the decision this week by Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority to allow U.S.-made liquor to return to the shelves for sale in the province.

Opposition New Demo-

crats have made known their dismay with the latest announcements. NDP Leader Carla Beck had this to say in a statement issued Thursday morning:

“It’s hard to believe — at a time when Donald Trump is doubling down on tariffs and attacking Canadian industries — that Scott Moe’s response is to sell out Saskatchewan workers and businesses.

“This is a complete reversal of what the Premier promised just months ago. He said he would stand up for Canadian workers.

He said he would put Saskatchewan and Canadian businesses first. And now, he has broken his promise and is siding with Donald Trump, a man who constantly threatens to force us to become the 51st American state.

“This decision by the Sask. Party will send Saskatchewan jobs and Saskatchewan tax dollars south of the border — at the exact moment our steel industry is being hammered by 50 per cent tariffs. Scott Moe had a chance to show leadership, and he folded.”

Crossword Answers

SaskTel announced it recently began launching SaskTel infiNET service to another 38 rural communities. These communities include Aberdeen, Arcola, Asquith, Avonlea, Balcarres, Cabri, Churchbridge, Craik, Cupar, Eastend, Elrose, Eston, Gravelbourg, Grenfell, Hepburn, Herbert, Île-à-la-Crosse, Kenosee Lake, Kerrobert, La Loche, Langenburg, Lanigan, Leroy, Manitou Beach, Marshall, McLean, Milestone, Muenster, Nokomis, Ponteix, Qu’Appelle, Rouleau, Spiritwood, Stoughton, Strasbourg, Vonda, Wadena, and Wilkie.

Delivering ultra-fast internet speeds, SaskTel’s infiNET network will revolutionize the way residents in these communities work, learn, and connect for years to come.

SaskTel infiNET service delivers internet speeds of up to a Gigabit per second (Gbps), allowing subscribers to browse, stream, and share content faster than ever before. Additionally, SaskTel will be able to increase the capacity of the infiNET network to meet the evolving needs of customers.

This latest expansion of the infiNET network is part of SaskTel’s Rural Fibre Initiative. The Rural Fibre Initiative is a multi-

phase program that will see SaskTel invest $280 million to bring infiNET service to nearly 200 rural communities by the end of 2027. Once the announced phases of the Rural Fibre Initiative are complete, SaskTel’s infiNET network will reach nearly 85% of all Saskatchewan households and businesses. Due to their diverse needs and varying complexities, it will take several months before all business customers and multi-dwelling units will be able to convert to infiNET service. Customers are encouraged to use SaskTel’s Service Availability Tool to check if they are ready to be upgraded to infiNET service.

Since first launching infiNET service in 2011, SaskTel has invested nearly $1 billion to connect thousands of Saskatchewan homes and businesses. The continued expansion of the infiNET network is a direct result of SaskTel’s commitment to invest nearly $466 million of capital throughout Saskatchewan in 2025/26. These investments will help ensure Saskatchewan remains one of the most well-connected province’s in the country. To learn more about infiNET service, please visit www.sasktel.com/infinet.