Envision hosting focus groups on violence supports and shelter needs
SaskToday staff
Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. is moving into the next phase of its regional feasibility study with a series of in-person focus groups in three southeast Saskatchewan communities.
The focus groups are designed to build on the feedback gathered through the organization’s recently launched region-wide survey and will provide deeper insight into the needs and challenges surrounding gender-based and domestic violence. The sessions will also help assess the demand for shelter and other supportive services in the region.
Focus group dates and times are as follows:
Weyburn – May 27, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Carlyle – May 28, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Estevan – May 29, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Residents, workers, students, service providers,
Sara Parks
SaskToday.ca
Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Energy Project passed a major hurdle after the Rural Municipality (RM) of Weyburn removed the 45-metre height restriction on wind turbines. During their regular meeting on May 7, council gave second and third reading to the bylaw amendment.
However, RM of Weyburn Reeve Bud Grohn told SaskToday, “The process is not finished.”
In a prepared statement on May 8, Reeve Grohn said, “I want to make it clear that I am
survivors, and community allies are invited to attend. Those interested are asked to contact the Envision office nearest to them to RSVP and receive location details:
Weyburn: 306-842-8821
Estevan: 306-637-4004
Carlyle: 306-453-2405
Feedback collected during the sessions will be anonymous and confidential, and will directly inform future programming, partnerships and funding priorities for violence prevention and response services in the region.
“These focus groups allow us to go beyond the numbers and hear real stories, concerns, and ideas from the community,” said Lynda Rideout, executive director of Envision Counselling and Support Centre.
“By working together, we can build supports that reflect the lived realities of people in this region.”
The initiative followed the launch of a five-minute online survey, which ended early in May.
not against projects such as Enbridge’s Seven Stars Wind Turbine Facility but as Reeve of the Weyburn RM, it is my duty to ensure that due process is done. Due process holds legislators to the fact that they must not be unfair to the people. As Reeve, I am required to represent the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn, not the City of Weyburn, not the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce and not the Economic Development Board. I was elected to represent and act in the best interests of the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn. I will do my best to ensure the proper
procedure and processes are completed in this proposed project regardless of opposition. It is my duty.”
Enbridge welcomed the bylaw amendment, saying it now aligns with bylaws in other Saskatchewan jurisdictions.
“Having a new bylaw in place is one step in a robust public evaluation process for the proposed Seven Stars Energy Project that includes development permit applications and provincial environmental review, both of which allow for significant public input and engagement,” Alex McNichol, director power business develop -
ment with Enbridge, said in an email on Wednesday.
“During our ongoing engagement with the community, there’s been growing recognition of the need for economic development and investment in the region to diversify the local economy and help create a more vibrant community,” said McNichol.
“As we advance the Seven Stars Project, we will work with the RMs and City of Weyburn, as well as continuing to engage in respectful dialogue with area residents with the objective of investing more than $500 million in this exciting renewable energy project.”
A local grassroots group calling itself No Weyburn Windmills voiced strong opposition to the wind turbines, citing concerns about environmental degradation, wildlife impacts, and potential health risks.
A public hearing was held on April 29 after council gave the bylaw amendments first reading on April 4.
The City of Weyburn council formally supported the $500 million Seven Stars Energy Wind Project during their regular council meeting on April 28.
The wind energy pro -
ject, set to be built in the RMs of Weyburn and Griffin, is expected to bring substantial longterm economic and social benefits to the region. The 200-megawatt (MW) development will operate over a 30-year lifespan, generating millions in annual tax revenue for local municipalities. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and wrap up in 2027. Enbridge estimates the project will employ an average of 100 workers during that period, with a strong emphasis on local hiring. Labour spending alone is projected at $75 million.
Young athletes learn soccer skills and drills at the Weyburn Spark Centre, during a camp taught by coaches from the University of Regina Cougars.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
COMMUNITY
Legacy Jr. Performing Arts Club presented “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” at the Legacy Gymnasium Stage last Wednesday night. The Jr. Performing Arts Extra Curricular Club involves Grade 3 and 4 students. Music Teacher/Director, Holly Butz, along with teachers Kelsey Silljer, Angela McKnight, Mellissa Weiss, Tara Wagner, Kim Wiens, Dara Uhren, and Jayda Messer have been working with the students for their first experience in the performing arts.
Ministerial Message: Impact of a Faith Filled Mother
Submitted by Pastor Cherian Poonnoose
Lighthouse Church Mother’s Day has just passed but I don’t want to miss the opportunity to pay a tribute and encouragement to all mothers. Motherhood is not always easy! It comes with plenty of challenges, but you were never meant to do it without God’s help. He has equipped you to raise your children to be happy and successful. Experience joy and satisfaction as a parent by applying these 5 tools to have an Impact of a Faith -Filled Mom.
Tool number #1 - Unwavering Love for God
The most important characteristic of a faith-filled mother is an unwavering love for God. Your love for God is based on the love God has for you. First John 4:16 says, “We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust
in his love.” How do you develop in the love God has for you? That’s simple. Spend time with Him in His Word- the Bible and in prayer. Daily take time to read your Bible and fellowship with God, your Father, in prayer. Prayer is simply talking to God and communing with Him. As you spend time with God, your faith will grow. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). When you read the Word and speak it, you are growing in faith. You are becoming a faith-filled mother!
Knowing God’s love produces an unwavering love for God.Let this be your declaration: “I love God, and God loves me. Every day, I am forgiven and I have another opportunity to be a faith filled mother”
Tool number # 2– Unconditional Love for Your Children
“These older women
ASSESSMENT NOTICE 2025
Village of Heward
Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the Village of Heward for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the
and
to 3 P.M. on the following days: Tuesday to Thursday, May 15, 2025 to July 16, 2025. A Bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of the Municipalities Act has been passed and The Assessment Notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal his or her assessment is required to file his or her Notice of Appeal with Nicole Hoskins, The Secretary of The Board of Revision, Box 149, Meota, SK. SOM 1XO by the 16th day of July 2025.
Dated this 7th day of May, 2025.
Z. Slater, Assessor
must train the younger women to love their husbands and their children.” –Titus 2:4 Of course, every mother loves her children. But having unconditional love for your children is having an attitude that doesn’t give up, no matter the circumstances, and that kind of determination comes from the Lord. As a mother, there are times when the stress of the moment can cause you to resent your child’s constant requirements, especially if you are a single mother and/or working a job. The crying, screaming or emphatic “No!” can easily cause you to feel frustrated. At these times, a faith-filled mother turns to God and His promises that are found in His Word. Take the initiative to believe God— that will help you cope with unnerving tantrums and everything else life throws at you. He promised He would never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 11:5). At each stage of
a child’s development, you will need to regroup in the way you interact with your child to express your love for them appropriately. As they grow, you must also grow in grace as you navigate each new season.
Tool number #3 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people - Colossians 3:23. Whether you spent time planning to be a mother, or you were surprised to learn you were pregnant, God knew you would be a mother. And He put within you the love and wisdom to be the mother He called you to be. Just like any other job you would do, you can work unto the Lord, pleasing Him in every part of motherhood. Psalm 37:5 says, “Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you.”When you feed your infant or change their diaper, you can appreciate the privilege God gave you of being a mother. When you
bathe them or rock them to sleep, you can remember that this child was given to you by the Lord. As they get older, and you prepare their lunches or take them to sports practice, you can remember that you are doing everything unto the Lord.
Tool number #4 Inspiration begins at home : When you look back at history,many famous personalities have been inspired by their mothers. When asked who inspired them, many of today’s most famous business leaders credit their mothers. It makes sense. A leader is someone who, by definition, guides or directs a group. An “inspiring” leader makes the people around her better, giving them the confidence to reach their full potential. And nobody can recognize potential like a mother. In a rare personal interview ,Bill Gates once said that on his wedding day his mother wrote in a card, “From those to whom much is given, much is expected.” His mother died six months later and Gates
still cherishes the card. Mothers, your inspiration has a lifelong impact, so please keep at it.
Tool number #5 : Wisdom is the key to build a home: In the Bible, the book of Proverbs 14: 1 says - The wise woman builds the house, but the foolish pulls it down with her hands.
Mothers you need God’s wisdom to fulfill your calling to be impactful. If you lack wisdom in any area of life, God encourages you to ask. James 1; 5 - If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. Mothers, when you teach your children the “fear of the Lord” that starts them up in life for success. Proverbs 1:7 states - The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. All of heaven’s resources are available for a mother who fears the Lord. God bless you richly Mothers. We honor and salute you for the tremendous impact you have on society.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
EDITORIAL
MY OUTLOOK: SOUNDS OF THE PAST NEEDED TO MOVE US FORWARD
Shelley Luedtke/SaskToday.ca
The blindfold drawing challenge. The try not to laugh challenge. Five items in five minutes decluttering challenge. There are all kinds of challenges you can take on with friends or by yourself to try something new or tackle a necessary task. Might I suggest another challenge to add to your list: The Jane Austen Reading Challenge.
This year marks the 250th birthday of Jane Austen—an author whose works continues to find new generations of readers. She is considered one of England’s foremost novelists, yet like so many in the fields of music, art and literature, did not receive the public acknowledgement during her lifetime that was to come later. Additionally, she is not without her critics—especially those who describe her work as quaint and dated.
It is often noted that the rich social tapestry depicted in her books ran in stark contrast to her own quiet, simple life in rural Hampshire. Yet as an observer of life, she benefited from the stories of different family members who provided a wealth of experience upon which she could draw.
Her father was an orphan who worked his way out of poverty. Her mother was related to a duke but lived a life of struggle. Her aunt undertook a trip to India with the sole purpose of finding a husband. She had a cousin whose husband died in the guillotine. Her youngest brothers entered the navy and lived lives of excitement and danger. Other brothers introduced her to the theatre, art exhibitions, social events, and the lives of the landed gentry which her audience knows is widely reflected in all her books.
She started writing comic tales as a child, and then began forming the stories that would become the six novels fans know and love: Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice, Mansfield Park, Emma, Northanger Abbey, and Persuasion. But before turning 40, Austen became ill and at the age of 41 passed away and was buried in Winchester Cathedral.
Enthusiastic admirers of Austen’s work are sometimes referred to as being a ‘Janeite’ or ‘Janite’, a term coined in the 1890s. I wouldn’t put myself in that ardent category but she does rank among my favorite authors. There is a flow to the sentence structure and a depth of vocabulary contained in the dialogue that is so rich and full. Her writings overflow with words and phrasing no longer in use and maybe that’s why I enjoy reading it so much. There is a turn of phrase that is pleasing to the ear; “I think it rather unnecessary in you to be advising me”, “mine of felicity”, ”in the most delightful manner” or “one and twenty.” It also recalls an era of civility and decorum that we might feel has gone the way of the passenger pigeon or woolly mammoth.
As you picture the gentlemen characters in their tailored tailcoats, waistcoats and cravats; and the women in their high-waisted gowns, flowing skirts and long sleeves, there is something that matches the sight and sound of the wardrobe with the well-spoken and refined dialogue. It’s similar to when people dress up for a fancy event. There is a difference in how they converse with one another. Perhaps it’s just being more careful with words and wanting to ensure their speech is reflective of how they are dressed.
I was intrigued by an article last fall detailing how broadcast journalists were planning to dress for their on-air coverage the night of the American election, revealing how fashion and style were used to “convey trust, urgency and relatability.” Colours chosen were said to play a vital role in influencing viewer’s feelings and emotions during election coverage. For example, tailored blue blazers were said to create a grounding effect, even as numbers onscreen were shifting.
While power suits and ties were in abundance— good decorum and civil dialogue was not; at least not at times throughout the evening. Then again, we are seeing it in other places too. Politicians, coaches, and titans used to reserve their outbursts for the back room, locker room or board room, but now they are on full display for everyone and it seems to matter little to them who and what they are representing. It’s what makes it so jarring to hear foul language, inappropriate comments or tantrums come out of the mouths of people who are smartly dressed. And the more this type of behavior occurs, the more it seems to normalize it all. The bar keeps getting lowered and any calls to raise it don’t seem loud enough to make a difference.
Jane Austen’s gravesite at Winchester Cathedral is visited by admirers every year. While honoring her body of work, there may also be a tinge of nostalgia for an environment where conversation was classy and dialogue was dominated by decorum. It is the furthest thing from quaint or dated. It just might be the most important reality challenge we can undertake. That’s my outlook.
Celebrating Economic Development: Building
a stronger Weyburn together
Economic Development Week in Saskatchewan is observed May 12 to 17, and Weyburn Regional Economic Development (WRED) is proud to highlight the important role economic development plays in growing a resilient and vibrant community.
Economic development is more than attracting new businesses—it’s about supporting entrepreneurship, encouraging innovation, helping existing businesses expand, and making Weyburn an attractive place to live, work, invest, and visit. It means creating the conditions for sustainable growth, high-quality jobs, and a strong quality of life for all residents.
As part of our commitment to supporting the region’s prosperity, WRED offers a variety of resources for:
• Investors and entrepreneurs seeking data, incentives, and opportunities;
• New residents looking for services and community information;
• Organizations and businesses interested in hosting conferences or special events in Weyburn.
Key resources available through our office include:
• The 2025 Community Profile, offering insight into the region’s economy, industries, and infrastructure;
• The Host Your Event in Weyburn guide, showcasing venues, services, and accommodations for events of all sizes;
• The New Resident’s Guide, designed to help individuals and families settle in the community with ease. These materials are available online at www.weyburneconomicdevelopment.com or in hard copy at our office at 11 Third Street NE, Weyburn.
They invite the public to follow us on social media for updates, stories, and economic insights:
• Facebook: @WeyburnEconomicDevelopment
• LinkedIn: Weyburn Regional Economic Development
This week is an opportunity to celebrate the people, partnerships, and potential that drive economic success in our region. Let’s keep moving forward—together.
National Nursing Week 2025 celebrates the Power of Nurses
The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) proudly celebrates National Nursing Week, May 12–18, 2025, with the theme The Power of Nurses to Transform Health. This theme honours the expertise, compassion, and impact of the 478,000+ nurses across Canada who are shaping the future of care in every health system and beyond.
Nurses continue to lead health transformation efforts, including care system redesign across the continuum of care and other sectors, and drive bold policy and evidence-informed advocacy.
Nurses also hold untapped economic potential. In 2024, wait times cost Canada’s GDP an estimated $5.2 billion according to the Fraser Institute, reflecting only hours lost during the average workweek for those waiting for care. By fully leveraging nurses’ knowledge and skills, such as expanding prescribing authority for registered nurses and scaling up nurse practitioner-led clinics, Canada can not only improve access to care but also mitigate these economic losses and unlock billions in potential savings.
“In every community and every sector, nurses are making measurable impacts on the health of Canadians,” said Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, CNA president. “This week, we celebrate the impact of nurses across Canada and their collective power to transform
health for today and tomorrow.”
CNA urges the federal government to maintain strong engagement with the nursing profession and take concrete steps to implement its platform promises. From pan-Canadian strategies and workforce optimization to mental health supports and workforce retention, nurses bring the evidence, expertise, and proven solutions Canada needs.
“As the largest group of regulated health professionals in Canada, nurses are uniquely positioned to lead system transformation and support governments across the nation to better meet the needs of the people we serve,” said Dr. Valerie Grdisa, CNA CEO. “I encourage all Canadians to join the celebration and to show their appreciation for nurses through social media, community recognition, and by supporting initiatives that strengthen the nursing profession.”
To learn more about National Nursing Week, to participate in the series of events organized, and download the National Nursing Week toolkit, please visit https://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/news-events/ national-nursing-week. Use the National Nursing Week hashtags to share your involvement in the week. #CNA2025 #NursingWeek2025 #NationalNursingWeek #IND2025 #Nurses2025 #NursingTheme2025 #ThePowerofNurses
New
As the Liberal Party of Canada secures a renewed mandate following the April 28 federal election, the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is calling on Prime Minister Mark Carney to move swiftly on key health and health workforce commitments.
“Nurses across the country are ready to work with the federal government to strengthen our health system and improve access to care,” said CNA president Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc. “With a renewed mandate, Canadians expect action on the priorities that matter most—starting with health system transformation.”
CNA released its federal election platform earlier this year—A Healthier Canada, Powered by Nurses: A Vision for 2025 and Beyond—calling for bold, evidence-informed reforms that optimize the nursing workforce and improve health outcomes.
Several commitments in the Liberal platform strongly align with CNA’s priorities, including:
• Creating a national licence for nurses and physicians to improve mobility and better optimize the nursing workforce where they are needed most;
• Streamlining credential recognition for internationally educated health
professionals;
• Investing in nursing education, continuing education, and leadership development;
• Expanding support for Indigenous health and mental health services;
• Launching a Task Force for Public Health Care Innovation to improve access, data quality, and accountability.
“With over $340 billion spent annually on health care, Canadians deserve a system that delivers better value, better access, and better outcomes,” said CNA CEO Dr. Valerie Grdisa. “Nurses— Canada’s largest group of regulated health pro -
fessionals—are essential partners in achieving that vision.”
CNA urges the federal government to begin early engagement with the nursing profession and take concrete steps to implement its platform promises. From national licensure and nurse practitioner integration to mental health supports and workforce retention, nurses bring the evidence, expertise, and solutions Canada needs.
Together, we can build a healthier Canada—by unleashing nurses’ true value and delivering on the commitments made to voters.
SPORTS
Weyburn Soccer Association players, Amilee Waelchli, Gabriella Friesen and Maddy Dewitt, joined the Prince Albert Celtic U15 Girls PSL team this spring. The girls proudly represent Weyburn Soccer on the field with the Prince Albert team. They began the pre-season with a gold medal win at the Lakewood Soccer Association “Just Kick It Cup” last weekend in Saskatoon. They team won all four of their games, 1-0 vs. Lakewood Wild, 5-1 vs. Hollandia U17/19 Girls, 4-0 vs. Eastlake United Thorns, and 3-0 vs. Hollandia in the finals to bring home gold. Friesen was in goal, posting two shut-outs over the weekend.
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
For wrestling legend “Cowboy” James Storm, the ring was his salvation.
“It was either that or go to jail,” he said with a laugh during a phone interview with SaskToday from his home in Tennessee. Though he won’t elaborate further, saying, “It’s something I would rather not talk about.”
Now the hard-hitting southern brawler brings his wild antics to Weyburn on May 27, as part of the Western Canadian Point To Prove Tour. Storm headlines a chaotic Canadian Wrestling’s Elite (CWE) card, featuring a Loser Eats a Can of Wet Dog Food Match, plus appearances by CWE Champion “Chizzled” Chad Daniels, “The Crazy MoFo” CAM!!ikaze, and “The Zombie Killer” MENTALLO, among others.
“Canada is like a second home to me,” said Storm.
The 47-year-old wrestler, whose real name is
James Allen Cox, is instantly recognizable with his cowboy hat and persona.
“It was something that was bestowed on me when I was really young,” he said.
“My grandmother gave me that nickname and it stuck with me, so I try to honour her in my wrestling career.”
Storm, known for his charisma, uses humour in his matches as he is portrayed as a beer-drinking, tough-talking southern cowboy.
“If you leave people with a feeling, they will remember that more than anything you do,” he said.
Over the years he has suffered serious injuries.
“I had a compound fracture in my right shoulder and had to have emergency surgery to repair that,” he said.
His signature moves are Last Call (superkick) and Eye of the Storm (spinning sidewalk slam). To stay in shape, he hits the gym six days a week. He also credits his children with keeping him active.
“Running around with them and doing stuff with them I have to give them credit for keeping me going.”
Like wrestlers before him, such as The Rock, Storm is transitioning into an acting career.
“That’s how I pay my bills,” he said.
Storm was part of the legendary tag team America’s Most Wanted (AMW) with Chris Harris. He later formed Beer Money, Inc. with Bobby Roode, becoming one of TNA’s most successful tag teams and is a multiple tag team champion in the TNA. He is a two-time NWA World Heavyweight Champion and a TNA World Heavyweight Champion.
“It’s good to be recognized by your peers and they think highly of you so I must have done something right somewhere,” he said.
Storm’s iconic career spans decades—but his greatest pride...
“Just that I was able to provide for my kids.”
Southern wrestling brawler brings wild antics to Weyburn Gymnasts shine at competition in Moose Jaw, April 25
The Moose Jaw Competition that was held on April 25 was a showcase of talent and dedication, with athletes from various age groups and levels competing. The Airbourne Gymnastics team delivered great performances, making Weyburn proud.
One athlete, in particular, stood out with the performance of her exceptional skills. Mackenzie Pulfer, a 16 year old gymnast, placed 1st overall in her age category competing as an Xcel Platinum athlete. Her performance was a testament to her hard work and discipline. The Airbourne Gymnastics Club is incredibly proud of her achievements.
Mackenzie received a gold medal on bars and floor, silver medal on vault, 4th on beam and took the all around title.
In addition to Mackenzie’s success, other team members also received medals for their outstanding performances.
• Sienna Walkeden –competing in the 12 year old Gold category received a gold medal on beam, silver medal on bars and floor, and placed second overall.
• Shay Warren – competing in the 12 year old
Gold category received a bronze medal on vault and placed fifth overall.
• Aubree Lawrence –competing in the 12 year old Gold category received a silver medal on beam and placed eighth overall.
• Kamryn Dammann –competing the in 12 year old and older Gold category received a silver medal on bars and placed
fifth all around.
• Lexi Heimlick placed ninth all around in the 12 year old and older Gold category
The overall team effort was also noteworthy, with every athlete giving their best. It is not just about winning medals; its about the journey, the growth and the camaraderie among the gymnasts.
A barrel racer competed in the High School Rodeo, held at the Weyburn Exhibition Grounds on May 9 and 10.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Mackenzie Pulfer
Decorated WWII veteran dies at age 99 on the way to the Netherlands
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
Jim Spenst, who was one of Estevan’s last Second World War veterans, died May 7 in Toronto at the age of 99.
Craig Bird, who is the founder of the South East Military Museum, said Spenst was supposed to be in the Netherlands on May 5 for the 80th anniversary celebrations of the liberation of that country, but due to some health issues, Spenst only made it to Toronto before
being hospitalized.
“Rest in peace Jim, we have it from here. Condolences to his family on his loss,” Bird wrote.
Spenst served in the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps after enlisting on Nov. 11, 1943.
In an interview with the Estevan Mercury in 2018, Spenst recalled he was 17 years old and lied about his age to enlist in North Battleford. He was discharged in March 1946 and eventually settled in Estevan.
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On Remembrance Day in 2022, Spenst was presented with the rank of knight with the National Order of the Legion of Honour in France – the highest French order of merit, military or civil.
France’s ambassador to Canada Michel Miraillet travelled to Estevan in December 2023 to personally thank, recognize and honour Spenst. Both presentations happened at the Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, where Spenst was a member for 73 years.
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Last year, Spenst was among the Canadian Second World War veterans who were selected for a delegation with Veterans Affairs Canada to attend the 80th anniversary celebrations of the D-Day invasion in Normandy, France. He was photographed at the event holding an Estevan flag, proudly promoting where he lived most of his life.
Spenst attended the local Remembrance Day service each year. In recent years he lifted a torch during the reading of Flanders Field and placed a wreath at the cenotaph
French Ambassador Michel Miraillet presented Second World War veteran Jim Spenst with the Rank of Knight with the National Order of the Legion of Honour in France, the highest French order of merit, both military and civil.
on behalf of war veterans.
Bird said Spenst was excited about travelling to the Netherlands this month for the 80th-anniversary celebrations, and he would have been extremely disappointed that he was not able to go.
“He will be missed by all that knew him as he was quite a character in the legion,” Bird said.
Estevan legion president Jim (Frosty) Forrest said Spenst held a variety of positions in the legion.
“At the time he was president of the legion here, I was a member of another branch, but I’ve heard all kinds of stories.
Jim got a lot of stuff done here. He was a go-getter, let’s get it done type, and from what I understand he ran a pretty tight ship. He’s been, in a way, a bit of a mentor to me when I took on this position. Jim knew the presidency of the legion inside out.”
They had many conversations over the years, and Forrest said it was always a pleasure to talk to Spenst thanks in part to Spenst’s good sense of humour.
Forrest noted Spenst was excited to be in France last year for the D-Day celebration, and Forrest is sad that Spenst
didn’t get to the Netherlands.
“We miss him and we certainly honour his service, as we do with all veterans. We honour his service not only in the military and wartime but also his service in the community. Jim was involved in the legion, but he was involved in a lot of other things over the years, and he contributed a lot to this community.”
The legion is looking to do something for Spenst but nothing has been finalized. A date for a funeral service has not been announced.
Photo Anastasiia Bykhovskaia
Public health nurses: caring for communities
National Nursing Week is celebrated from May 12 to May 18, 2025. This year’s theme is The Power of Nurses to Transform Health. It’s the perfect time to recognize the invaluable contributions of nurses, especially public health nurses (PHNs). Here’s an overview of their vital role.
An all-encompassing profession
Nursing is a diverse field with various specialties. Many nurses focus on individual patient care, but PHNs operate on a broader scale, working diligently to enhance the health and safety of entire communities.
• They provide education. PHNs play a crucial role in educating communities about health issues, promoting well-being and ensuring individuals have access to necessary care. They work in various settings, including underserved areas like First Nations and remote communities, reaching those who might otherwise have
limited access to health care.
• They provide care. Public health nurses deliver essential direct care services to individuals. They administer vaccines and immunizations to protect against preventable diseases, conduct health screenings and perform assessments to identify potential health risks within the population.
• They focus on advocacy. PHNs design and implement health education campaigns to raise awareness about critical health issues, such as mental health, maternal and child health and infectious diseases. Their advocacy efforts play a vital role in shaping a healthier environment for everyone in the community.
This National Nursing Week, take a moment to appreciate the dedication and hard work of public health nurses as they strive to keep communities safe and healthy.
Travel nursing: nationwide care
As National Nurses Week approaches, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate the dedicated professionals who make a difference in the healthcare system, including travel nurses. Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) who take on temporary assignments at healthcare facilities across the United States. They bring specialized skills to hospitals and clinics in need. What do they do?
Travel nurses play a vital role in addressing nursing shortages, particularly in areas experiencing high demand. Whether due to seasonal fluctuations, unexpected healthcare crises or regional staffing challenges, travel nurses step in to ensure that patients receive the highquality care they deserve. What are the benefits?
Travel nurses can choose where they work and often benefit from housing sti-
pends and travel reimbursement. Additionally, travel nurses often receive higher pay rates than their permanently employed counterparts. This makes travel nursing a fulfilling and financially rewarding career choice.
Where do they work?
Travel nurses can work in various specialties and settings, including emergency rooms, intensive care units (ICUs), labor and delivery wards and medical-surgical units. Hospitals and healthcare facilities frequently seek travel nurses in high-demand areas, such as the ER, where their advanced skills and quick adaptability are crucial.
This National Nurses Week, celebrated from May 12 to 18, take a moment to appreciate travel nurses and their invaluable role in keeping healthcare facilities running smoothly and providing essential care to communities across the country.
Canada’s police system
Did you know that Canada has a policing system that’s unique in the world? There are three distinct policing levels: municipal, provincial and federal. Each level is crucial in maintaining law and order within the country.
Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
At the federal level, the RCMP serves as Canada’s national police force. The RCMP is unique in its jurisdiction, operating at the international, federal, provincial and municipal levels. Federal police officers are responsible for enforcing federal laws, investigating crimes of national significance and providing specialized services such as border security, counterterrorism and organized crime investigations.
Provincial police
Provincial police services operate at the regional level, providing law enforcement in specific provinces or territories. While some provinces have
dedicated police forces, such as the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) or the Sûreté du Québec in Quebec, others rely on contract policing with the RCMP. Provincial police officers enforce both provincial laws and regulations, as well as federal laws within their jurisdiction.
Municipal police
At the municipal level, police services are provided by local law enforcement agencies. These agencies are responsible for policing within specific cities, towns or municipalities. Officers at this level handle various duties, including responding to emergency calls, conducting investigations and patrolling neighbourhoods to ensure public safety.
During National Police Week, from May 11 to 17, educate yourself on how the police operate in your area and how they work collaboratively to ensure the safety and security of Canadians across the country.
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Weyburn Legion present service pins, appreciation awards
The Weyburn Royal Canadian Legion Branch #47 held their annual awards night on May 5.
This year they had 23 members presented with service pins for long time Legion membership; 13 individuals and businesses acknowledged with Certificates of Appreciation for continued Legion support and four members who were given Certificates of Merit for long time branch service and volunteer support.
Without individuals and organizations like these, Weyburn would not have a Legion. Those honoured during the awards night were:
2025 Pin Recipients
15 Year Pin
Lynnel
Bukowsky-Ling
Steven Hermann
Gerald Ponto
Anna Ross
20 Year Pin
Kathleen McFadden
Doris Meckum
Grant Simpson
30 Year Pin
Victor Messer
William Millar
40 Year Pin
Norman Affie
Joanne Babiarz
Bernice Jaster
Keith Martin
Gladys Paulhus
45 Year Pin
Lauren Kater
Marion MacDonald
Edna
Darcy
Kenneth Ferguson
William
Barry Dixon
Connie
Protouch Signs
Jean
Marion MacDonald and Lauren Kater each received a 45 year service pin, presented by Brian Glass.
Harold Whiteoak
Representatives of Pharmasave Weyburn were one of many businesses that received Certificates of Appreciation.
Harold Whiteoak, left, was one of four members who received a Certificate of Merit award from the Weyburn Legion, presented by Brian Glass.
Why did you choose your career?
I chose to become a police officer because I wanted to make a real difference in my community. Growing up, I saw how officers could be a force for good—helping people in crisis, protecting the vulnerable, and building trust where it was needed most. I was drawn to the idea of serving others, even on the tough days, and being part of something bigger than myself.
What do you view as the most important day-to-day responsibilities?
Day to day, ensuring public safety and building trust with the community. That means responding to calls with professionalism, whether it’s a minor dispute or a serious incident, and treating everyone with respect and fairness. Patrolling neighborhoods, engaging with residents, and being a visible, approachable presence is very important.
Who in the industry inspires you?
I’m inspired by officers like Sgt. Riley Ross and Cpl. Gord Gateman. Both have been members for many years and have this incredible ability to stay calm under pres-
sure while showing genuine compassion. They have taught me that policing isn’t just about enforcing laws—it’s about understanding people’s stories and helping them through their worst moments. Their dedication to fairness and community outreach, even after all these years, pushes me to be a better officer every day.
What do you feel is one way that people can show their appreciation during Police Week?
One meaningful way to show appreciation during Police Week is by simply saying “thank you” or writing a note to your local police service. It might sound small, but those gestures go a long way, especially when we’re often dealing with challenging situations. If you want to go further, consider attending a Police Week event in your community or supporting programs that promote positive police-community partnerships, like youth outreach or mental health initiatives. Knowing the community sees us as partners, not just enforcers, means the world.
