Submitted by Norm Park, Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
Twenty schools in Saskatchewan have been selected to receive $20,000 in grant funds from the Mosaic Company and the Saskatchewan School Boards Association (SSBA) to celebrate the 20th year of the Mosaic Challenge.
The $400,000 in funding from Mosaic celebrates the 20th anniversary of the program that sees schools enhance facilities, increase educational opportunities and launch programs to support student health.
The projects selected include schools setting out to expand nutrition programs, promote cooking, gardening, enhancing facilities or increase educational factors and supporting projects with cultural components.
The Lampman School and Midale Central School were the two schools from
the South East Cornerstone Public School Division that made it to the top 20 List.
Lampman’s proposal is to renovate the school’s home economics lab., purchase commercial appliances to enhance that project and then implement daily breakfast and snack programs.
At Midale, the plans include the implementation of a snack and lunch program, the introduction of a commercial cooking class and the offer of take home nutrition kits.
Other entries that made the cut came from a vast spectrum of geological locations across the province that included: Chinook, Good Spirit, Greater Saskatoon Catholic Horizon, Living Sky, North East, Northwest, Prairie South, Prairie Spirit, Prairie Valley, Regina Public, Saskatoon Public as well as the South East Cornerstone Public School Division.
Sara Parks
SaskToday.ca
An open-air concert planned for June 2-4 received approval but City of Weyburn councillors made it clear that if conditions aren’t met this year, the permit won’t be renewed in the future.
The decision made at the May 25 meeting followed extensive debate and a plea from a neighbouring resident. Mayor Jeff Richards said the permit approval must be amended to require all music stop at midnight.
Michael Hatch told council that he and other residents have dealt with broken promises, blaring music past midnight, and a mess of beer bottles left behind.
“And the beer bottles everywhere, the mess that was left behind, it was quite the mess,” he added. “And I noticed you said they had to provide adequate parking on site, well the tents are taking up the whole parking lot, so they always fill up the residents’ streets.”
He said he wakes up at four o’clock in the morning to go to work, and even the concert ending at midnight is “pretty late,” adding that the noise travels.
Councillor Todd Bedore said the concerns go beyond this single event.
“It is not so much about this event,” he said. “It’s
“In past years, they went well past [midnight],” he said. “They said they would stop at a certain time, and they just kept on going and going and going.
about kind of the larger issue of having that venue there, and maybe some of the ongoing concerns about noise in that area. Maybe we have to do a better job around bylaw and making sure that it’s focused on in that area, and that it’s not so much about this specific event.”
Councillor Larry Heggs said he supports the event but puts the onus on the organizers.
“If the music stops at midnight, and somebody’s over there to check the mess, and if I can be assured of that, and residents are satisfied as they can be after the event, then the next time it rolls around, I’ll vote in favour of it again.”
Councillor John Corrigan, who lives in the
area himself, said he understands the noise levels firsthand.
“I’m very sympathetic to the residents in the area,” said Corrigan.
“With that said, I think we need to find some balance here, too. I would like to see this event go forward this year with some very strict restrictions on the noise, and enforcement of the noise to be shut down at midnight. I don’t think any, even DJs, after midnight should be allowed in this event, quite frankly.”
Corrigan agreed with Heggs about putting the onus on the organizers.
“The cleanup afterwards, if it’s not adhered to this year, I don’t think we should approve it in future years, and they can look for a different venue for this
particular event.”
Corrigan said he wished the permit approval came to council sooner so they “could have had a robust conversation” at council, and “with all the parties involved.”
‘A broken record’
Councillor Laura Morrissette said that complaints have become routine.
“Well, I’m going to be a broken record and echo my previous councillors,” she said. “In my time of being on council, these letters have come every oil show. I want to see this go ahead, but I do want to be sympathetic to the residents of the area. So, again, I can support this with the caveat that, yes, all music is turned off by midnight, and that everything is enforced after that.”
Ryan Janke, who also lives in the neighbourhood, agreed it can get loud. He said he hasn’t personally noticed garbage issues, adding “but I also haven’t looked that closely.”
Councillor Kellie Sidloski, who previously lived a block away and has three young children, said she understands the impact on daily life.
“I do sympathize with that,” she said. “I also think that the oil show is a large event in the community and an important event in the community.
“We will keep a much closer eye on it this year and ensure that those are followed,” added Sidloski. “But I will also support this with the 12 o’clock noise restriction.”
The Exhibition grounds were busy Tuesday morning as set up for the 2026 Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show was completed. Displays and tours are open June 3 and 4.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Councillor
COMMUNITY
A hub of activity at Wheatland Senior Centre
In Spades on May 18, Stan Hubick placed first, Janet van Winkoop won second and Marge Schultz finished third.
In Trump Whist on May 18, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson placed first, Janet van Winkoop and Gladys Lokken placed second and Chris Carter and Doreen finished third.
During Kaiser on May 19, Alice S. and Lavine Stepp placed first, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson took second and Norma Kapusaniuk and Melba Bent finished third.
Canasta was held on May 20. Shirley Cherpin won first, Chris Carter placed second, Marlene Szczecinski won third, Arlene Goodwin finished fourth, Lavine Stepp took fifth and Ione Schnell placed sixth.
In Hi-Low Whist on May 20, Marjorie McLeod and George McLeod won first, and three teams tied for second: Dave Frayn and Brenda Paul, Margaret Schultz and Fay Johnson, and Janet van Winkoop and Emily Zyla.
During Thursday Cribbage on May 21, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson won first, Doreen Knibbs and Shirley Hubbs took second and Elaine Frasz and Gerry Thompson finished third.
Contract Bridge was held on May 22. Lucie Nickel won first, Jean Knibbs placed second and Dave Frayn finished third.
During Fun Crib held on
May 23, Garth White won first, Emily Zyla placed second and Stan Hubick finished third.
During Spades, held on May 25, Melba Bent placed first, Ernie Lokken finished second and Janet van Winkoop took third.
Playing Trump Whist on May 25, Willa Mae Donald and Ruth Boren won first, Jannette Tonn and Marjorie McLeod placed second and Janet van Winkoop and Gladys Lokken finished third.
In Kaiser on May 26, Jeanne Molnar and Elaine Frasz won first, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson placed seocnd and Kim Jacob and Kathy Jacob finished third.
During Canasta on May 27, Lavine Stepp won first, Gladys Lokken placed second, Shirley Cherpin took third, Marion Loucks placed fourth, Janet van Winkoop finished fifth and Betty Herlick placed sixth.
In Hi-Low Whist held on May 27, Jannette Tonn and Marj McLeod won first, Dave Frayn and Brenda Paul took second, Marg Schultz and Fay Johnson placed third.
During Thursday Cribbage on May 28, Dave Frayn and Marlene Szczecinski placed first, Don Peterson and Emily Zyla finished second and Shirley Hubbs and Chris Carter took third.
In Contract Bridge on May 29, Bonnie Oleva won first and Dave Frayn placed second.
SE Cornerstone approves PMR projects
Submitted by Norm Park, Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
The $3.554 million preventive maintenance replacement program has been amended for the current 2025-26 school year said Jim Swyryda, the facilities manager for the South East Cornerstone Public School Division.
The reworked project list was forwarded to the school board members who were attending the May 21 open business portion of their day-long agenda in the division’s head office in Weyburn.
Swyryda answered queries and outlined the changes, pointing out some of the major projects. He then offered the group the proposed three-year project plan that has been forwarded to the Ministry of Education that will take the
division’s replacement and maintenance plans forward to 2030, without projecting any increase in provincial funding at this stage of the process.
The current amended projects list included several electrical and HVAC repairs along with the ever-present need for roof replacements.
The Lyndale School is receiving a $750,000 total facility refurbishment this year as the one major single school project. Swyryda reported how the school required a gymnasium overhaul, washroom upgrades and sidewalk replacements among other things.
Plumbing accessibility needs at the Estevan Comprehensive School comes with a price tag of around $85,000 Swyryda explained.
The Weyburn Comprehensive School’s track
repairs and upgrades will come with the price tag of around $100,000 while Pangman School receives shingles and cladding for $120,000. Stoughton School roofing will be around $220,000 he suggested. Midale Central School will also see, or has already undergone, an upgrade for $255,000.
The facilities manager noted that a surplus of around $250,000 is carried over from one year to the next in the event it has to be deployed to meet emergent situations such as weather related damages etc.
Over the next three years, schools in Yellow Grass, Radville and Macoun will see more immediate attention (2027-28) while major replacements and maintenance missions will be carried out in Gladmar, Weyburn Comprehensive and an anticipated expenditure at what will be the new Carlyle School.
Other expected major projects “down the road,” will include more roof replacements at Lampman and Weldon (Bienfait) Schools as well as a major facility refreshment at Alameda School.
Swyryda noted that, of course, the future projects and needs do carry a significant degree of speculation, but the overall needs and plans are pointed out in a sequence that is helpful in forging plans for the coming years.
The facilities manager also reported how roof repairs, equipment movement and fuel costs have all increased in the past few months and those factors may influence the projected programming.
There was also a brief discussion regarding ongoing accessibility issues at a few schools within the division.
The report received unanimous approval from the board members.
Grade 5 students Janie, Embry, Nalani and Berkeley learned how to CGI capture and create their own videos, during an EYES camp recently held at Assiniboia Park Elementary School.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Bauer tagged the ball at the U7 and U9 Rally Cap tournament at Haig ball diamonds on May 30. The season continues through the month of June.
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 2026
Tuesday, June 9 2026
Royal Canadian Legion (upstairs) 7:00 pm Call to Order
Prairie Sky Co-op Association Ltd. has three positions up for election. All 3 positions are for 3-year terms. Director Jim Linnell is running for re-election.
At the AGM, you’ll hear updates on the work of our Co-op and have the chance to vote on some key decisions. This year’s agenda includes a proposed amendment to Bylaw 6.01.
Everyone who attends the meeting will be entered to win 1 of 5 door prizes!
EDITORIAL
Exploring the Bonners Ferry
By Trudy and Dale Buxton, Publishers of The Independent
Our day continues after a great stop in the very beautiful community of Sandpoint.
Our destination for the rest of the day is Creston, British Columbia where we stop for the night.
We continue our ride, travelling north on Highway 95, the views with the Kaniksu Forest on our right side are really quite nice - we are seeing less of the rich fertile flatlands of the farming community and headed into more mountains and forest.
We are travelling through the community of Naples, which was named after the city in Italy, which became a popular spot back in 1992 when the Weaver family of Ruby Ridge had a stand-off with federal authorities. Of course the Weaver Family thought they were right in their dispute, but the authorities didn’t see it that way. As a result, there was three deaths in the stand-off including one U.S. Marshall and two from the Weaver Family.
We have come to the City of Bonners Ferry, population of around 2,600 people.
Bonners Ferry was named after a prospector named Edwin Bonner who was looking to find a way across the Kootenai River.
Back in the mid 1800’s there was a mad dash of people who making their way into B.C. during one of many gold rushes. Mr. Bonner built a manual ferry in 1865 across this one point in the river and this ferry provided the much-needed crossing for people to get to B.C. and find their fortune in gold.
The community of Bonners Ferry is nicknamed the Nile of the North for its
rich fertile land that was created from constant flooding of the Kootenai River.
In the late 1800’s building along the river were built on stilts to protect their assets from the rising waters. It wasn’t till the early 1900’s were people were building theirs on more solid ground.
Bonners Ferry is also the home of the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho which has been in these parts for hundreds of years. Normally this tribe is a semi-nomadic tribe they have continued to thrive on these lands preserving their customs and language.
Bonners Ferry is also home to a large 2,800-acre wildlife refuge which is a resting spot for tens of thousand of migratory birds and hosts well over 200 different species of birds.
As we continue up the highway we split with the Highway 95 and continue on the Number 1 highway to the Canada-USA port of Porthill.
Way back in the year of 1860 this little port crossing was know as Ockonook which in English terms meant a grassy hillside with some rocks, which about sums that up, because that’s exactly what it looks like.
After crossing the border, we continue our way on the Creston-Rykerts highway for a short drive into Creston, this is where we stop for the night and enjoy some relaxation and do a little exploring in the area.
Stay tuned next week as we discover Creston and continue on north into British Columbia.
Opinion: survival guide for graduates
Nick Kossovan/SaskToday.ca
Congratulations. You’ve earned a degree, flipped the tassel, and are now staring down a job market that is less like a steady ladder and more like a poker game where the house is playing with a marked deck. Seeking a soft place to land? Your timing isn’t just bad; it’s paradoxically bad, yet not without hope.
The “career ladder” is officially dead. The maps your parents used to navigate the workplace are now historical artifacts. You’re entering a world where white-collar jobs are undergoing an undignified death. AI—the most significant career game changer since the assembly line—isn’t being rolled out as a friendly productivity “co-pilot.” It’s a robotic locust swarm being unleashed to monetize productivity without the financial messiness of salaries, benefits, payroll taxes, or the “headache” of managing human beings.
The following isn’t a sugary graduation bromide meant to boost your ego; it’s a condensed field manual for survival that embodies the truism that “the world doesn’t respond to wishful thinking or ‘manifesting.’ It responds to friction.”
The Myth of the Productivity Tool
Your greatest act of self-preservation? Refusing to drink the corporate Kool-Aid. AI isn’t a digital butler for your inbox; it’s a digital termite chewing through the legs of your ergonomic chair. A human-replacement tool, pure and simple. Yes, companies will always need people, but they’ll need far fewer—and they’ll vastly prefer those who don’t demand “mental health Wednesdays” as a baseline.
As AI floods workplaces with “acceptable” mediocrity, the value of human imperfection and manual skill will undergo a massive renaissance. If you want any semblance of a steady income, learn to work with your hands. Healthcare workers, plumbers, and electricians have always
been the “hard reality” professions, but now more than ever, since they fix what a computer program can’t. In the coming decade, a degree in “Strategic Management” will be worth less than the grit required to repair a burst pipe flooding a basement.
Likeability: Your Secret Weapon
In a world of automated responses, your biggest asset isn’t your GPA or your technical skills; it’s your likeability. While many careers are built in isolation through hard work, opportunities, which you should constantly be foraging for, aren’t coveted prizes handed out by the Gods equitably; rather, they’re distributed through relationships.
Work in the office: Remote work is championed by those who lack ambition. You can’t learn the nuances of an employer’s culture, develop social skills and confidence, or build meaningful professional relationships through Zoom calls. Go into the office! Observe. Ask questions. Be visible. Learn the unwritten rules about who actually holds the influential power.
Look people in the eye: In a world of constant notifications, showing genuine interest and giving someone your full attention is a powerful, meaningful gesture.
The “You” Shift: Ditch the talk about “creative needs” or your “personal brand.” Employers don’t care about your self-actualization; they’re concerned with their bottom line. If you want someone to pay you, you need to explain how you can solve their problems or help them make money.
Invest in yourself: Join Toastmasters or take a Dale Carnegie course. Learning to coexist with people whose views are diametrically opposed to yours is a lost art. Instead of hunting for a “gotcha” moment to prove someone wrong, ask yourself: “How might they be right?” This question frees you from limiting beliefs that keep you stagnant.
Nick Kossovan is a self-described connoisseur of human psychology
Bonners Ferry was named after a prospector named Edwin Bonner who was looking to find a way across the Kootenai River.
JACK NGUYEN HILARY
SPORTS
WCBL Recap: Weyburn downs Saskatoon
Randy Palmer SaskToday.ca
Anyone who has followed the Western Canadian Baseball League for any amount of time can tell you all about how radically a team’s fortunes can change in a short amount of time.
Case in point, the Weyburn Beavers.
After taking a pair of mercy rule losses to the Saskatoon Beavers to open their campaign, the Beavers came as close as could be to finding the win column against Saskatoon on Saturday night.
Then on Sunday, they broke through.
Despite falling behind 6-0 early, the Beavers would rally in the later innings to tie the game and would score a pair in the ninth to secure a 9-8 victory in Saskatoon.
for first win
Weyburn 9, Saskatoon 8
A six-run third inning gave the Berries their early edge, but the Beavers got one back in the fourth and then put up a six-run frame of their own in the sixth to take the lead. Saskatoon then tied the game in the seventh, setting up the dramatic finish.
In a wild turn of events, both Jared Kramp and Robery Gurney were hit by pitches with the bases loaded, bringing home Hugh Montgomery and Joe Madill with the go-ahead and what would turn out to be a crucial insurance run.
A lead-off solo home run from Ethan Murdoch got the Berries back within one in their half of the ninth, and the Berries would get the tying run on base before Weyburn’s Gunner Ferguson got the next two batters to close things out.
Ferguson gave up only Murdoch’s homer in two solid innings of relief to pick up the win. Josh Pritchard started for the Beavers and allowed seven runs -- only two earned -- on eight hits while going seven innings.
Kramp finished the game 1-for-3 with a triple and two RBI, Anthony Cortese also knocked in a pair.
Murdoch had another phenomenal game for Saskatoon, going 5-for-5 with two doubles, the aforementioned homer and three runs scored. Nathan Houston was 2-for-4 with and crossed the plate once.
Michael Sall had a solid start for Saskatoon, allowing a single unearned run and one hit over five innings while striking out seven. Brody Wrench took the loss.
Weyburn improved to 3-1 on the season,
20 registered for flag football and will be returning to the school next year.
Local athletes bring home medals from pickleball provincials
Submitted
Several Weyburn athletes competed at the Saskatchewan Pickleball Championship, held at the Regina Queen City Pickleball Hub on May 28 to 31.
With 425 athletes and 75 volunteers, it was the largest pickleball provincial tournament to date.
Women’s Singles and Men’s Singles Events
Deana Mainil won silver in Women’s Full Court Singles 4.0+ (age 50+).
Jacquie Williams won bronze in Women’s Skin -
ny Singles 3.0 (age 62+).
Women’s Doubles Events
Deana Mainil won gold in Women’s Doubles 4.0+ (age 50+) with partner Nelly Helms of Saskatoon.
Jacquie Williams and Vickie Betker won bronze in Women’s Doubles 3.0 (age 64+).
Janessa Grosenick and Karen Brolly won gold in Women’s Doubles 2.5 (age 10 – 56).
Mixed Doubles Events
Deana Mainil won silver in Mixed Doubles Open 4.5+ (age 50+) with partner Dave Clarke of Regina Beach.
Jacquie Williams and Barry McKim won bronze in Mixed Doubles 3.0 (age 61 – 66).
Brenda Milatz won gold in Mixed Doubles 3.5 (age 57 -62) with partner David Reid from Regina.
Vickie Betker and Darcy Sidloski won silver in Mixed Doubles 3.0 (age 67+).
Men’s Doubles Events
Bob Maurer won gold in Men’s Doubles 3.5 (age 60 – 65) with partner Kelly Lendsay of Saskatoon. Darcy Sidloski and Barry Mckim won gold in Men’s Doubles 3.0 (age 63+).
Eagles football camp was held at the Weyburn Comp. last week. Coaches led players in several drills at the camp.
Athletes compete at districts
The Saskatchewan High School Athletic Association district track meet was held at the Weyburn Comprehensive School on May 27.
The top Weyburn athletes who will advance to provincials are:
Intermediate Boys
Ajax Longman placed second in the 1,500 m, second in the 3,000 m and second in the 800 m.
Rylan Meier won first in the 800 m, finished second in the 200 and 400 m and placed second in long jump.
Ben Sawatsky placed third in the 800 m.
Jaym Bautista placed third in high jump. Brenden Hope placed third in javelin.
Intermediate Girls
Sophie Pollock won first in the 100 m, high jump and long jump, and
placed second in the 200 m. Lily Penner placed third in the 3,000 m. Persephonee Wilson won third in the 400 m.
Alyssa Kerr took first in the 80 m hurdles and javelin. Lauryn Chicoine won first in shot put and second in javelin. Eliza Gall placed third in the 80 m hurdles and triple jump.
Junior Boys
Malley Sterling won first in the 100 and 200 m.
Judah Sawatsky won first in the 100 m hurdles.
Easton Spragrud won first in 400 and 800 m, and placed second in the 1,500 m.
Cole Payak won second in javelin and long jump. Cody Goski placed third in javelin.
Junior Girls
Maggie Bryant won first in 1,500 m and second in the 3,000 m.
Senior Boys
Aeryk Benning won first in the 100 and 200 m. Ross Gill placed second in the 200 m and third in the 100 m.
Andrew Hatch won third in the 100 m hurdles.
Camden Husband placed first in the 1,500 m and second in the 3,000 m.
Tace Odima won first in the 400 and 800 m, and finished second in long jump.
Jack Bell won second in discus.
Senior Girls
Peyton Lokken placed first in high jump, second in the 100 m and triple jump.
Zaniyah Odima won first in the 400 m, second in the 200 m and third in high jump.
Lilly Connery won second and Bailey Roy finished third in discus.
Weyburn pickleball athletes gathered with provincial medals at the city’s pickleball court, located behind the Spark Centre. Back row, l-r, Jacquie Williams, Bob Maurer, Vickie Betker and Janessa Grosenick. Front row, Deanna Mainil, Karen Brolly and Darcy Sidloski.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Flag football athletes competed in a scrimmage at the Weyburn Comp. School recently. The new program had roughly
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Supporters raise thousands in Estevan to help make CF history
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
A tradition of coming together to fight cystic fibrosis (CF) continued May 31 with Estevan’s annual Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History.
More than 40 people gathered at the Woodlawn Regional Park for the walk. The park’s binzebo served
as the start-finish line, and participants had the option of walking two or four kilometres through the park.
Kasey McIntyre, whose son Liam has CF, organizes the fundraiser each year. She noted that last year Cystic Fibrosis Canada celebrated 65 years of progress.
“Progress made possible
by a community that has never accepted the status quo. A community that shows up, speaks up, fundraises and walks year after year and changes what’s possible for people living with cystic fibrosis. And here’s the exciting part: we’re not slowing down,” said McIntyre.
Estevan’s walked had
Estevan was one of more than 40 communities in the province to host a walk and fight cystic fibrosis.
Photo by David Willberg/SaskToday.ca
raised $111,000 since its inception, she said, and that number will be higher after this year.
Thanks to support shown for events like the Walk to Make CF History, more people with CF are living into adulthood.
“Because of you, more people have access to lifechanging medications, and because of you, Cystic Fibrosis Canada is looking ahead, investing in breakthrough medications, expanding care and support, and addressing the needs of those ... in our ever-growing CF population,” said McIntyre.
Fundraising leads to Canadian research, geneediting therapies, access to improved care, important support programs for those with CF like mental health initiatives, among other initiatives, she said.
Sarah Wright from the Estevan Kinette Club, which is a long-time sup-
porter of the walk, highlighted the partnership between Kin Canada and Cystic Fibrosis Canada. Through events like the walk, Kin members help raise money for CF research and support.
“What makes this partnership so powerful is simple: every step you take today, every dollar that is raised, every bit of encouragement truly makes a difference,” Wright said.
The Kinettes raised over $2,800 for this year’s walk through such campaigns as an elimination draw.
McIntyre also saluted some of the top fundraisers of the year. Walk organizers are surrounded by so many loving people, and they are “beyond happy” to have team captains, fundraisers, family, friends and community involvement.
The No. 2 fundraiser was Leona McIntyre, whose efforts this year were a beautiful tribute to her husband, who died last fall.
“He was a part of our team, he helped support finding a cure for his grandson Liam,” said Kasey McIntyre, noting there was a tribute to him on display.
Ron Dunville was the top fundraiser with his annual bottle drive campaign, which brought in over $3,000 this year, McIntyre said.
Brady Johnson from Encompass Fitness led a warm up before the walk began. After the walk, participants gathered at the binzebo for a barbecue lunch, socializing and draws.
An online silent auction, fundraisers in the community and other efforts helped raise money for the walk. Various sponsors helped make the walk a success, McIntyre said.
Estevan was one of more than 40 walks happening across the country, McIntyre said.
Dozens of students graduate from SE College in Estevan
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Southeast College celebrated the achievements of dozens of students at its Estevan campus during a graduation ceremony held May 29.
Fifteen students graduated from the Adult Grade 12 program. Students also graduated from early childhood education, electrician applied certificate, heavy equipment operator, heavy equipment truck and transport, industrial mechanic, mental health addictions counselling, plumbing and pipefitting, power engineering and welding programs.
Cody Klyne was the valedictorian of the Adult Grade 12 class. He told the crowd none of the grads made it to this point alone. He noted his parents never gave up on him, and their support and belief carried him further than he thought possible.
“Everything I achieve today started with you,” he told the crowd.
He also thanked his siblings and his teachers, and congratulated his fellow grads. “As we move forward here, we’re all going in different directions, chasing different dreams, but the lessons we’ve learned, the people who helped us along the way, will stay with us forever,” Klyne said.
William (Blake) Attridge and Bradley Kiesman, students in the mental health addictions counselling program, were co-valedictorians for the skills training programs. Attridge noted they were part of the first cohort for the counselling program.
“We faced several challenges and moments of uncertainty in the beginning,” Attridge said. “But as things progressed, despite our fears, we realized an important lesson: sometimes we just need to trust the process, focus on one day at a time, and not ... worry.”
Graduation was a chance to celebrate friends, family and supporters who helped, Attridge said.
Kiesman came to college anticipating a competitive environment and believing success would be an individual achievement, but he said that wasn’t the case.
“The people who I expected to be my competitors were the ones who were showing up every day, encouraging each other as well as me, supporting each other and cheering me on,” Kiesman said.
He also overheard other people talking about what they admire in others, and that’s when he knew he was in the right place.
He added he anticipated instructors would be unapproachable and intimidating, but they were some of the kindest and most genuine people he has encountered.
“Most people are fighting this battle nobody else can see, and it’s this battle of self-doubt. Am I smart enough? Am I strong enough? Do I belong here? Do I deserve this?” said Kiesman.
Indigenous music group The Red Island Singers performed as the students made their way into the room and as the grads exited.
Knowledge keeper Calvin Racette delivered a blessing for the grads. He noted he was at the ceremony last year and enjoyed his time, so he was happy to return this year.
“I was a school teacher for 34 years, and every year, when those young folks went across the stage, it meant so much to me, but it meant more to the families because the families had invested so much in those young folks.”
In Indigenous families, the grad was often the first to complete Grade 12. He recalled that during his first year in education in Regina, 22 Indigenous students graduated from high school across the city. Now the number is 500 to 1,000 — a statement that drew applause from the audience.
He added it’s important for students to remember
they are now alumni.
College board member Judy Okanee said the ceremony marked the culmination of hard work, perseverance and commitment for both the grads and their supporters.
“Through your studies, you gained valuable knowledge and practical skills, and you’ve demonstrated the resilience, the adaptability and the integrity we value so highly. You leave here ready to thrive in a changing world,” Okanee said.
President and CEO Jody Holzmiller noted it was the third and final graduation ceremony for the college this week, and by far its largest crowd was in Estevan.
“The classes of 2026 have learned in a time of constant change,” she said.
“You have studied, adapted, solved problems and
kept going, even when the path was unclear. You have discovered success is not about having the perfect plan. It’s about showing up and learning as you go and moving forward with purpose, even when life seems uncertain.”
In classrooms, labs and late-night study sessions, grads found people who challenged and supported them, Holzmiller said, and she reminded them nobody succeeds alone. Their journey has been shaped by teachers, instructors, mentors, friends, families and Southeast College itself.
“You do not need to have every answer today, you do not need a flawless five-year plan. What you need is curiosity, integrity and the willingness to take the next step, even if it’s imperfect,” said Holzmiller.
Bursaries and awards were also handed out. Scholarship recipients included Shielo Placer, Brittney Westman, Rochelle Huriet, Bradley Kiesman, Dakota Himmelspach, Tanner Fidler-Meays and Jackson Hollinger, who received the Southeast College post-secondary opportunity scholarship; Justin Folbar, who received the Government of Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan opportunity scholarship; and Gerardo Cabasa, who received the Redhead Equipment scholarship. Southeast College student recognition awards went to Joyce Espina and January Legault, who received the Board of Governors Award for Academic Excellence, and Nicole Wright, who received the Southeast College Award for Contributions to the Community.
Diplomas, certificates, scholarships and awards were presented in a ceremony at the Estevan campus.
SASKATCHEWAN MINING WEEK
MAY 31 - JUNE 6, 2026
Mining Week recognizs vital contributions made across province
The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed May 31 to June 6, 2026, as Saskatchewan Mining Week, recognizing the vital contributions of the province’s mining sector and the people who support it.
Energy and Resources Minister Chris Beaudry joined industry leaders, students and stakeholders
at the Saskatchewan Mining Week launch event, hosted by the Saskatchewan Mining Association (SMA) at the University of Saskatchewan, marking the start of celebrations across the province.
The event highlighted the strength of Saskatchewan’s mining sector and its critical role in the prov-
incial economy and future workforce development.
“Saskatchewan’s mining industry drives economic growth and is a strong supporter of communities across our province,” said Energy and Resources Minister Chris Beaudry.
“Our world-class potash and uranium industries
continue to deliver strong results, while growth in emerging minerals is helping position Saskatchewan as a global critical minerals powerhouse.”
Mining Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the people, partnerships and innovation that continue to drive the sector forward. It also high-
Saskatchewan Mining Week: May 31 - June 6, 2026
lights career opportunities in mining, as the industry works to attract the next generation of skilled workers in areas such as trades, engineering, environmental sciences and technology.
“Over the next decade, Saskatchewan’s growing mining industry will need 15,000 new employees in rewarding careers like trades and engineering,”
Saskatchewan Mining Association President Pam Schwann said. “To increase the mining labour pool, we are working closely with government and industry to promote career opportunities in mining; and collaborating with post-secondary institutions for training that will attract the new generation of talented employees that underpin the success of Saskatchewan’s mining sector.”
Saskatchewan’s mining sector continues to show strong momentum, generating more than $12.8
Delivering Premium Value
billion in mineral sales in 2025, up 19 per cent from 2024, driven by gains in potash ($9.3 billion) and record uranium sales ($3.2 billion).
The industry is a major economic driver, supporting thousands of jobs and leading Canada in mineral development investment at $6.7 billion, while exceeding exploration targets under the Critical Minerals Strategy. With continued growth in exploration and emerging resources such as helium, lithium, copper, zinc and gold, Saskatchewan is strengthening its position as a top mining destination and a reliable global supplier of critical minerals.
Mining Week highlights the strength of Saskatchewan’s mining sector and its importance to the province’s future. With continued growth and opportunity, the industry will play a key role in supporting Saskatchewan’s economy for years to come.
Committed to our communities, devoted to our employees and responsible stewards of the environment.
Today, tomorrow, always.
For over 150 years, Westmoreland has been part of the fabric of the energy industry, navigating significant challenges and continually emerging as an industry leader. We provide jobs for hard working folks, invest in local schools and community enhancements, and provide a valued resource to generate power for homes and businesses. Westmoreland has demonstrated a commitment to sound safety and environmental stewardship practices at our mines, and continues to position itself to be an integral part of the multi-faceted energy future.
www.westmoreland.com
Nutrien pilot plant offers technical support to mining sites
Jon Perez SaskToday.ca
Having Nutrien’s pilot plant in the city, in a centralized location, is strategic for the company, as it allows the facility’s research operations to better support its potash mining operations across the province.
Pilot plant director Mark Buchinski, during a media event after a plant tour on Tuesday, May 26, said the facility supports six potash mining sites through innovation, collaboration and rapid response, adding that it plays a key role in improving production efficiency.
“One of the benefits of having this facility here in Saskatoon is that we have great geographic proximity to each of our operating sites. When there is an issue, we can get in a car and go out to the sites to see them, help support them and bring work back here if needed,” said Buchinski.
Nutrien has potash mining sites in Allan, Lanigan, Rocanville, Vanscoy, Cory and Patience Lake near Saskatoon. Cory is 27 kilometres west of Saskatoon, while Patience Lake is 27 minutes east of the city.
Buchinski, who started as a chemical engineering intern at the pilot plant in 2009, said the Saskatoon-
based facility focuses on conducting research and testing technologies before they are introduced at active mining operations.
“This facility is focused on doing the innovation and research ahead of time before it actually needs to be installed at the sites,” said Buchinski, who previously worked at several of Nutrien’s potash mining sites, including Vanscoy, Cory and Lanigan.
“When the sites are ready to introduce new technology, we understand what the best available technology is and can implement that in a very sustainable, low-risk way.
A large part of the work we do here is focused on improving the sites’ recovery.”
He added that improvements in flotation and crystallization performance have enabled operations to extract more usable potash from every tonne of ore mined underground, without increasing the amount mined.
“If we improve our flotation performance or crystallization performance, we’re actually making more potash with the same amount of ore. That creates significant efficiencies in the operation,” said Buchinski.
He said that while each mining site maintains ana-
lytical facilities, the pilot plant in the city has more advanced, specialized equipment for compiling data that all six sites can use, making it more practical to centralize innovation efforts.
Buchinski also highlighted the importance of collaboration across Nutrien’s potash operations, noting that the centralized structure enables successful practices developed at one site to be quickly shared company-wide.
“One part of the role this group helps build is taking the best practices and innovations from one site and bringing them to the other five potash assets that we have. We can all learn together from each other’s ideas, successes and failures,” he added.
He said that collaboration strengthens Nutrien’s capabilities in the potash mining industry, enabling innovation and improving the company’s operational efficiency, with the six sites across the province working together for efficient production.
Pilot plant manager Courtney Rohachuk said their primary role is to support the company’s six mining sites by testing and optimizing processes without disrupting operations, adding that their facility allows teams to experiment
with flotation systems, recovery methods and new technologies in a controlled environment, helping sites improve efficiency, reliability and product quality.
She said potash process-
ing is highly specialized because flotation occurs in saturated brine rather than water, which requires the unique expertise the pilot plant provides, and she also highlighted the collabora-
tive relationship between the pilot plant and the mining sites, as the pilot plant has a multidisciplinary staff composed of engineers, metallurgical technicians, welders and student interns.
CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE
is proven technology that advances using coal as an energy source to the forefront of today's power needs on a global scale. Boundary Dam Unit 3 was the first of its kind filling the gap between transitioning between renewable energy and reliable base load electricity. It is proven, successful technology.
Deadline for classified submissions is Monday at 12 Noon
Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome, Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.
Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www swna com or call 306-649-1405 to find out how! PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS 44 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities Call 306-649 1405 or visit www swna com for details
Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association
Midway between northeast and east 14. A place to shop 15. Minneapolis suburb 16. Single lens reflex 17. NY Mets great Tommie
18. Informal loan clubs
20. Habitual twitching 21. Holm oak
22. Willing to consent or submit
25. In an early way
30. Made possible
31. Language in Ghana
32. Relating to one’s birth
33. Deep-bodied fishes
38. Defunct European currency
41. Small American songbird
43. One from L.A.
45. After tenth 47. Hillside
49. Red deer
50. Partner to “oohed”
55. Indian musical pattern
56. Israeli city __ Aviv
57. Golden peas plant 59. Breezed through 60. Midway between east and southeast 61. Frameworks
62. Danish krone 63. Fall back 64. Influential Korean leader CLUES DOWN
1. Bridge building degree 2. Expression of sorrow or pity
3. Large, stocky lizard
4. Turkish leader title 5. Nag
6. Blank 7. Closely woven cotton fabric
8. A nice shot in golf 9. Away from wind
10. Evergreen shrub genus 12. Large African antelope 14. Something you receive 19. Satisfy 23. Wet dirt
24. No longer here
25. Writing utensil
26. Ribonucleic acid
27. Consume food
28. Licensed for Wall Street
29. Alternative forms of a gene
34. Buddy
35. We all do it
36. Chicken
37. No seats available
39. Yearned to possess
40. Ineffectual
41. Explosive
42. Turkish title
44. Worn near the foot
45. Impatient
46. Set an example for others
47. Actor Pitt
48. Instrument of torture
51. Swiss river
52. Grayish white
53. A way to print
54. Storied college hoops program
58. Midway between south and southeast
May 28.
Pedestrian crossing improvement
A new pedestrian crossing is now in place at the corner of 16th Street and Fifth Avenue North, supporting safer travel for pedestrians in a busy area of the community.
The City of Weyburn recently installed two poles with flashing pedestrian lights and audible crossing signals at the intersection with support from the Government of Saskatchewan’s Provincial Traffic Safety Fund, administered through
Make
Contact Leslie or Andrea at 306-842-7487
acorrigan@glaciermedia.ca
SGI. The program funded $10,936 for the project.
The crossing was identified as a priority location due to its connection to Tatagwa Trails, proximity to a school zone, higherspeed traffic in the area and significant traffic volumes.
Between May 29 and June 6, more than 11,000 vehicles were recorded travelling through the area.
“When we look at ped-
estrian safety, we consider how people are using the area every day and where additional visibility can make a meaningful difference,” said Jenna Borys, City of Weyburn municipal engineer. “The new flashing lights and audible signals give both drivers and pedestrians clearer cues at the crossing, which supports safer movement through this corridor.”
Caden painted a flower pot at the Weyburn Public Library’s KidVentures program on
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
A Safety Patrol Appreciation assembly was held at Assiniboia Park Elementary School on June 1, with Constable Philip Clark, the WPS school liaison. Keyanna Kloth and Ben Hillstead received the CAA Medal of Pride and Honour for outstanding volunteerism and commitment to safety.
Safety campaign aims for responsible trail stewardship
Submitted
The Canadian Motorcycle Association (CMA), the Canadian Quad Council (CQC), and Moto Canada will recognize June as OffRoad Safety Month, bringing together riders and trail users across Canada around a shared commitment to safer riding and responsible trail stewardship.
This year’s campaign marks a stronger, more collaborative national effort. For the first time, CMA, CQC, Moto Canada, and fourteen provincial partner organizations are working together coast to coast to amplify one clear message: Stay Safe. Respect the Trails.
The campaign reflects the realities of off-road riding and the importance of being prepared before heading out. Whether riding an off-road motorcycle, ATV, or side-byside, participants are reminded to wear proper protective gear, inspect their vehicles, ride within their skill level, stay on designated trails, and remain alert to changing terrain, wildlife, and other trail users.
“Off-road riding is built on preparation, awareness, and respect,”
said Landon French, CEO and President of Moto Canada. “This year’s campaign brings partners together behind a common message that speaks directly to riders and the trail systems they value. When we work collectively, we can make a stronger impact and help protect the future of offroad riding in Canada.”
“ATV riders and sideby-side users understand how important it is to ride responsibly,” said Peter Mellish, President of the Canadian Quad Council.
The national campaign is supported by social media messaging tailored to both off-road motorcycles and ATVs, with practical reminders focused on machine readiness, protective gear, skill development, trail conditions, and responsible riding behaviour.
For motorcycle riders, the campaign highlights the importance of matching terrain to experience and staying alert to changing conditions. For ATV and side-byside users, it emphasizes understanding vehicle limits, following manufacturer guidance, and riding with safety in mind.
Photo courtesy of Assiniboia Park Elementary School
