Weyburn Police officer receives provincial valour award
SaskToday
Cpl. Ryan Cherniawsky of the Weyburn Police Service (WPS) was saluted with the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police (SACP) Valour Award during the SACP Mess Dinner and Awards Night on May 13.
In a news release, the Weyburn Police Service said the Valour Award recognizes police officers throughout Saskatchewan who “demonstrate exceptional bravery and courage in the line of duty”.
Cpl. Cherniawsky was recognized for his actions during a structure fire that occurred in Weyburn on March 5, 2025
“Upon arriving at the scene, Cpl. Cherniawsky
entered the smoke-filled residence and safely removed an individual he located inside, placing himself at significant personal risk in order to save another man’s life,” the WPS said in the news release.
“The Weyburn Police Service is extremely proud of Cpl. Cherniawsky’s courageous response during this dangerous incident. His actions reflect the highest standards of policing and public service.”
The WPS added it is also proud of the professionalism and dedication Cherniawsky displayed while representing both the WPS and the City of Weyburn on the provincial stage.
Fire Department members receive service awards
The Weyburn Fire Dpartment had the privilege of recognizing a few of their members for their years of dedicated service
to the department and community. The presentations were made at the Fire Hall on May 14.
These firefighters continue to give their time, energy, and commitment to helping others, and we’re proud to celebrate their milestones and everything they do for Weyburn.
Years of
Service Awards:
• George Kerr – 40 years
• Danielle Koeslag – five years
• Bryon Shangraw – 10 years (not pictured) George’s 40 years of service is pretty incredible. He’s always the first guy willing to lend a hand anywhere and anytime. He’s the big tough guy around the hall, but also someone constantly volunteering in the community, especially helping out with the Red Wings games. Forty years of dedication like that is something truly special, and we’re lucky to have him as part of the Weyburn Fire department.
Danielle Koeslag, centre, received a five year service award from the Weyburn Fire Department. The award was presented by Fire Chief Mike Wock and City Councillor Todd Bedore.
Photos courtesy of the Weyburn Fire Department
George Kerr, centre, received a 40 year service award from the Weyburn Fire Department. The award was presented by Fire Chief Mike Wock and City Councillor Todd Bedore.
Cpl. Ryan Cherniawsky of the Weyburn Polcie Service, centre, received the Valour award from the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police. Weyburn deputy police chief Shane St. John, left, and Police Chief Brent VanDeSype attended the ceremony.
Photos courtesy of the Weyburn Police Department
COMMUNITY
Montana guests welcomed at Wheatland crib tournament
A Cribbage tournament was held on May 9, with ten tables in play and two more from Wolf Point, Montana. Elaine Frasz and Gerry Thompson placed First, Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson took second and J.R. and Norma Staples finished third.
In Spades on May 11, Gladys Lokken placed first, Mildred Sandiford won second and Marge Schultz finished third.
During Trump Whist on May 11, Willa Mae Donald and Ruth Boren came in first place, followed by Marjorie McLeod and Jannette Tonn in second and Gladys Lokken and Janet van Winkoop in third.
In Kaiser on May 12, Jean Fahlman and Heather Carter placed first, Lavine Stepp and Alice Schneider took second, and Melba Bent and Jeannie Molnar placed third.
During Canasta on May 13, Sheila Wendel won first, followed by Janet van Winkoop in second,
Shirley Cherpin in third, Chris Carter took fourth, followed by Jean Knibbs in fifth and Ione Schnell in sixth place.
In Hi-Low Whist on May 13, Gladys Lokken and Sharon Eggum took first, Dave Frayn and Brenda Paul came in second, and Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson placed third.
During Thursday Crib on May 14, Shirley Hubbs and Chris Carter placed first, Stan Hubick and Garth White took second place, and Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla came in third.
Four people played Friday Contract Bridge.
The month end supper will be held Friday, May 29 at 5:30 p.m. The menu will include lasagna roll-ups, string beans, Caesar salad, garlic toast and dessert. Please sign up in advance and pay at the supper. The price for supper is $20 for members and $22 for non-members.
ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET
10:30a.m.to8:00p.m.
MondaytoSunday
WCB shares statistics at virtual annual meeting
The Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) shared its 2025 results at its annual general meeting today, held virtually.
Members of the board and executive team pro -
vided an overview of the organization’s financial, strategic and operating highlights, including 2025 workplace injury and fatality statistics.
“At the WCB, protecting Saskatchewan’s
workers and employers is central to everything we do,” said WCB CEO Phillip Germain.
“Our strong funding position reassures workers and employers that their needs will be met.
Babies of 2025 Contest Winner
Erica Hill (along with husband Mitch, missing from photo) and baby, Liam, were the winners of Weyburn This Week’s Babies of 2025 contest. Big sister, Sydney, and big brother, Walker, helped Mom display the gifts that were presented to the Hills. Liam was born in December and was recently able to join his family at home, after spending many months in the NICU. Welcome home and congratulations!
Reporting a solid funded position and sufficiency ratio enables us to continue working alongside partners across the province to prevent injuries, restore abilities and make Saskatchewan workplaces safer every day.”
The WCB’s sufficiency policy sets a target range for the sufficiency ratio of between 100 and 140 per cent. In 2025, the WCB remained fully funded, with a sufficiency ratio of 123.5 per cent, compared to 137.5 per cent in 2024.
Financial highlights of the WCB’s 2025 results included: Claim costs were $362.7 million in 2025, up from $255.0 million in 2024. Between 11 and 15 per cent of all claims in the province continue to be serious injury claims, which make up more than 80 per cent of the costs to the Saskatchewan compensation system.
The WCB reported premium revenues of $378.6 million in 2025, up from $355.8 million in 2024.
The WCB reported investment income of $205.0 million in 2025, down from $284.6 million in 2024. In 2025, the investment portfolio had a return of 8.6 per cent at market, compared to a return of 12.9 per cent in 2024. Investment income includes realized income and unrealized gains or losses on investments during the year and can fluctuate significantly year to year to reflect the change in the market value of investments.
In 2025, the WCB reported a net income of $18.7 million. This compares to net income in 2024 of $190.7 million. This includes the WCB’s Business Transformation Program costs of $46.4 million.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Mavryk
EDITORIAL
Opinion: Expanding MAiD for mental illness is a grave mistake
Submitted by Daniel Zekveld
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention announced that it will close its doors at the end of June “after more than four decades of national leadership in suicide prevention and life promotion.”
That’s a sad development, particularly in a country that is set to expand Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) to Canadians with mental illness in less than a year.
The debate around MAiD for mental illness has been ongoing since 2021, when Parliament passed legislation including a “sunset clause” that would make those with mental illness eligible for MAiD as of March 17, 2023. That expansion was later delayed to 2024, then to 2027. Now, a committee of MPs and senators is once again studying whether Canada is “ready” to euthanize the mentally ill.
But if anything has changed since 2024, it’s that there is more evidence and more opposition against MAiD for mental illness.
MP James Maloney recently highlighted the need to “get it right” as the Special Joint Committee on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) studies MAiD for mental illness alone: “It makes no difference to me whether it’s a small percentage or a large percentage. The issue we have to deal with is getting it right.” But evidence continues to pile up that getting it right means not doing it at all.
For a sense of the impact of MAiD for mental illness, consider the example of the Netherlands, which has had psychiatric euthanasia since 2002. The intent was to offer euthanasia in those situations as a last resort. And for years, the number of psychiatric euthanasia cases remained low. In 2011, there were two psychiatric euthanasia cases. In 2020, there were 88. By 2023, that number had increased to 138, and by 2024, to 219.
One recent study in Psychiatric Times suggests the Netherlands has seen a rapid increase in psychiatric euthanasia, particularly among young women, “without corresponding changes in prognostic certainty or treatment effectiveness.” This rise in cases is accompanied by shorter assessment periods, more permissive interpretations of “irremediable suffering,” and fewer physicians involved in more cases. These elements are already evident in Canada’s MAiD data.
Psychiatrist John Maher, in his testimony before the committee studying MAiD, argued that there is no such
thing as “everything has been tried” when it comes to mental illness. In fact, he has had patients whom other psychiatrists say cannot get better, but he has been able to help them do so.
Professor of psychiatry Dr. Harvey Chochinov says that at least half the people who die by MAiD for mental illness would have gotten better. Psychiatrists are concerned that once MAiD for mental illness is permitted, patients will choose MAiD rather than continue to try to get better.
Sixteen current and former chairs of psychiatry departments across the country highlight that there is no broadly accepted definition of irremediability, no clear way to distinguish between suicidality and MAiD requests, and inadequate safeguards to protect the vulnerable. Additionally, mental health care remains lacking in Canada, and cases in other jurisdictions demonstrate some of the problems with MAiD for mental illness. Ultimately, they recommend an indefinite pause on MAiD for mental illness.
Getting it right on MAiD and mental illness means refusing to reframe mental illness as something to be solved through death. Offering MAiD to people suffering from mental illness encourages them to give up hope and flies in the face of suicide prevention efforts that Canada has long promoted.
As of 2025, Canada ranks 22nd out of 28 developed countries in terms of the availability of psychiatric beds and 16th in terms of the number of psychiatrists per person. Canadians in need of psychiatric care wait nearly 25 weeks after receiving a referral. And yet MAiD can be accessed in 90 days, and often much sooner.
The prospect of MAiD for mental illness alone has been looming since 2021. But none of the problems have been resolved. Mental health care remains lacking, irremediability cannot be accurately determined, and most psychiatrists reject MAiD for mental illness.
The reconvening of the Special Joint Committee on MAiD once again gives MPs and senators the opportunity to stop the upcoming expansion of MAiD to those with mental illness. After five years of discussing the recurring problems, this time let’s get it right and ensure Canadians with mental illness are given the hope and care they need rather than the prospect of MAiD.
Daniel Zekveld is a policy analyst with the Association for Reformed Political Action (ARPA) Canada.
Frosty Balls.... Continued
By Trudy and Dale Buxton, Publishers of The Independent
Well, we have made to Blaine Lake for the next card in the poker run for the Frosty Balls Motorcycle Run 2026, the wind has been gaining strength ever since we had left Warman for the annual run. So far, though, the wind is manageable.
In Warman I had purchased two poker hands and at each stop you draw for a card with hopes that at the end of the run you have the best hand. In Warman I drew a King on one hand and a Queen on the other hand, so now I’m here in Blaine Lake to further my glory in the best hand, I draw a four of spades and a six of diamonds. Well ... so much for that dream of the best hand!
Did you know that Blaine Lake was settled by the Doukhobors way back in 1899? The area features an authentic Doukhobor Dugout House, which is a national historic site and features an underground dwelling.
Blaine Lake is also the home of Saskatchewan’s Largest Tree, a giant Cottonwood/Balsam tree boasting a girth of just over 16-feet. That’s pretty big!
The original name is said to have belonged to a Mr. Blaine who had perished in a nearby lake, that’s what the local folklore says.
Well, off we go to the next poker stop. We travel north on Highway 40, our next poker stop is going to be Prince Albert.
On our way, we pass by the community of Shellbrook which is the home of our current Premier of Saskatchewan, Scott Moe. It’s not surprising that the highways are really in good shape.
Did you know that Shellbrook is the birthplace of one of Canada’s renowned authors? That’s right ... his name was
James Sinclair Ross and most famously known for a Prairie-based novel, ‘As for Me and My House’. Shellbrook is also noted as the Town of Lakes because it is so close to many lakes in the area.
One interesting fact about Shellbrook is that between 1937 and 1946 a local resident named Olga Proctor helped bring 400 babies into the world at the maternity wing of the local nursing home.
Next up on our travels is Prince Albert and hopefully my card draws are better.
Did you know that Prince Albert claimed three Prime Ministers for the federal government? Sir Wilfred Laurier, William Mackenzie King and John Diefenbaker! No other Canadian city can claim that.
Prince Albert was named after Queen Victoria’s husband and is the third largest city in Saskatchewan. It has been known as the great meeting place for many of our First Nations people’s.
Well, the card picks ended up being a two of spades and a nine of clubs, ending all hope of any respectable hand.
As we continue down Highway 11, we hang a right at Rosthern and head over to Laird for our final piece of the journey.
The barbecue is put on by the Laird Volunteer Fire Department, and as always, the hamburgers and fixings are welcome after a day travelling in the gruelling wind conditions.
Lots of stories are told, and before we call it a day and head home, we do reflect on what the day was all about and that is raising important monies to a worthwhile cause and fighting prostate cancer.
Next week we continue our British Columbia trip.
The Frosty Balls Motorcycle Run stopped in Laird for their final piece of the journey.
Second annual BLOOM brings more than 135 women together
SaskToday
Weyburn’s second annual BLOOM event blossomed this past weekend with approximately 135 women in the area. It included participants, presenters, and committee members to gathered throughout the city for a full day dedicated to connection, creativity, wellness, and supporting each other and local businesses.
Designed to encourage women to try something new, build friendships, and strengthen community connections, BLOOM featured 21 unique sessions hosted at local businesses and community spaces across Weyburn, as well as at location sponsor Southeast College.
“The idea is that if you can get through the door, women commit 110 per cent to new hobbies, and activities,” said committee member Krista Hubic. “This way we can support local AND build lasting connections through new hobbies and activities.”
Participants customized their own experience by selecting two morning sessions and two afternoon sessions from a wide range of activities and workshops.
Fashion and design sessions included opportunities to connect with local style experts at businesses like at Evelyn Lane with Pam Molde and Felicia Watson, Expressions Ladies Wear with Chantel Borys, and Heidi’s Design House with Heidi Bousfield.
At the Spark Centre, participants could learn pickleball with Brenda Milatz, Jacquie Williams, and Vickie Betker, or create clay soap dishes in the pottery studio with Rini Hoffman.
Fitness and recreation sessions encouraged participants to get active and
have fun, with offerings including Barre at Barre Star Fitness with Whitney Johnson and Denille Schroeder, golf instruction at Another Round Golf Simulators with Finny, axe throwing at The Slice, and yoga and Pilates at The Studio with Melissa Dubasov.
Green thumbs also found opportunities to grow their skills through hanging basket workshops with Jon Michaud of Roughbark Greenhouse hosted at the Co-op Home Centre, as well as a vertical farming session led by Angie Hastings.
Confidence-focused sessions included makeup techniques hosted at Ice and Ink with Patrice Altwasser of Bent Beauty, and a hair and confidence session with Lindsee Michel of Misfitz Hair Studio hosted at Southeast College.Creative participants explored hobbies and arts through watercolour painting with Molly Douglas of Molly Jean Watercolour, stamp jewelry making with Krista Klemmer at the Weyburn Public Library, and photography with Jessica Hunter Photography at her studio.
Food and beverage enthusiasts also had plenty to enjoy, including charcuterie board building with Vicki Leas of Field and Flour and a mixology session at the LB Liquor Store.
Mental and physical wellness remained an important focus throughout the day with sessions such as Menopause is HOT led by Nurse Practitioner Raquel Carlson and Cash Confidence with stress management coach Pam Horne.
Participants also received swag bags filled with generous contributions from local businesses
and supporters, including jewelry from Shelly Lueck and Bloom energy drinks on behalf of the BLOOM Committee, lip balm from the Weyburn Credit Union, makeup from Bent Beauty, Arbonne fizz drinks from Tara Hartley-Ortman, meal gift certificates from the Weyburn Golf Club, discounts from Heidi’s Design House and Evelyn Lane, hair products from Missfitz Hair Studio, treats from Pam Horne, and custom BLOOM dishes donated by the committee and 3D printed by Ryan Janke.
Completely Branded helped contribute the tote bags, and Knix also provided tote bags and a special QR code offer for each participant, helping make the event feel even more welcoming and celebratory.
The day’s delicious luncheon, held at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 47, brought all participants together to reflect on the experience, connect with one another, and celebrate community. Completely Branded was onsite creating Bloom swag for participants to take home while Nicole Scott Photography captured the empowering essence of the day. There were many winners as well with 9 prize donations from Hotshot Oilfield Services, Prairie Skies CoOp, Knix Wear, Weyburn Ladies Golf, Weyburn Chamber of Commerce, Misfitz Hair Salon and Rob Jordens Century 21 Hometown. Guests were honoured to welcome Her Honour Bernadette McIntyre as keynote speaker.
During her remarks, Her Honour shared insight into the responsibilities of her role while emphasizing the importance of volunteerism. Getting involved is not only a way to strength-
High HIV infection raised as concern
John
Cairns SaskToday.ca
High HIV infection rates were a concern raised this week at the Legislature after news that Manitoba had declared a public health emergency over the issue.
During question period on May 13, the NDP’s Nathaniel Teed noted Manitoba declared the emergency due to its HIV [human immunodeficiency virus] rates rising to 19.5 patients per 100,000, the highest in Canada.
“It caused the Government of Manitoba significant alarm to discover they were the worst in Canada for HIV rates,” Teed said, as recorded in Hansard.
“But it never seemed to bother the Sask Party. Every single year prior, Saskatchewan has always been the worst in Canada. We have a crisis, and it’s killing people.”
Teed called for “a bipartisan working committee to work on solutions to this crisis” and asked if the Sask Party would work with
them on “solutions to this public health emergency.”
In response, Minister for Rural and Remote Health Lori Carr acknowledged that “Saskatchewan’s HIV rates are too high, Mr. Speaker, and our government is committed to addressing this issue.”
She said the government had been receiving regular updates through coordinated calls with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Indigenous Services Canada and the Northern Inter-Tribal Health Authority in response to increased HIV transmission in the province.
She also said new positions have been funded and filled to strengthen local capacity, and that the government is focused on efforts to improve awareness, expand access to testing, offer medication and support timely initiation of treatment.
“In Saskatchewan we listen to the advice of our medical professionals to make informed decisions, not political reactions that
en communities, but also as a way for women to nurture personal passions, build meaningful relationships, and maintain strong identities beyond their daily responsibilities.
The event concluded with approximately 50 participants and committee members gathering for an informal supper at Another Round, where conversations, laughter, and new friendships continued long after the sessions had ended.
Proceeds from the event will continue to bloom forward, as the BLOOM Committee committed to donating taxi chits for chil
dren in Pre-K programs within the South East Cornerstone Public School Division and Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division.
“This was a natural fit for the committee,” said BLOOM committee member Lindsay MankoBauche. “As women, we can all understand the challenge of balancing life and finances at times, and helping fill a gap to ensure every child in Weyburn has access to valuable supports and programming felt like a wonderful way for this day
Organizers say the continued growth of BLOOM reflects the incredible support of local businesses, presenters, volunteers, and women eager to invest in themselves and their community.
“BLOOM is really about creating space for women to connect, learn, laugh, and support one another,” said organizer Lindsee Michel. “The energy throughout the day was incredible, and we are so grateful to every presenter, participant, sponsor, and volunteer who helped make
risk further stigmatizing those who actually need the support, Mr. Speaker,” Carr said.
Following Question Period, Saskatchewan Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab spoke to reporters on what Saskatchewan had been doing.
He noted that in June 2025, the province published a refreshed STBBI (sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections) testing policy, and in October 2025 they published a multi-year action plan for sexually transmitted infections and blood-borne pathogens.
Dr. Shahab said that over the last 15 years, “we had great success with many STIs,” including effective treatments and a marked reduction in hepatitis C.
Up until around 2020, Dr. Shahab said Saskatchewan saw stable HIV rates and low rates of syphilis, and high rates of more common STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea.
Participants took part in a “Build a Board” session at Field and Flour with Photos courtesy of Lindsay Manko-Bauche
SPORTS
Speedway delivered excitement at program
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The engines roared again at the Estevan Motor Speedway for a regular program May 16.
Seventy-five entries were received between the track’s five different classes. Estevan driver Kody Scholpp won the feature race in the IMCA modified division for the
second straight race program, finishing ahead of Tyson Turnbull. Kyler Jeffrey was third and Marcus Tomlinson came in fourth.
Kyle Scholpp of Lampman picked up his second straight feature win in the stock car class, finishing ahead of Trent Guest, Keenan Glasser and Brock Beeter. Brandon Beeter of
Minot, N.D., took top spot in the hobby stock division. Cash Saxon was second, Kyler Sartran was third and Diezel Raynard came fourth.
Stan Mayer of Frobisher was the victor in the IMCA sport modified class, his first career feature win at the speedway. Stan Tomlinson was second, Keenan Glasser was third and Lee-
vi Runge came in fourth.
Eli Turnbull of Estevan won the slingshot feature. Turnbulls took three of the top four spots in the entrylevel race, as Halle Turnbull was second and Lucy Turnbull was fourth. Dane Skjerdal came in third.
The next program at the track will be May 30, which is First Responders’ Night.
Karate athletes advance to represent Canada at Worlds
Submitted
Three Weyburn competitors finished with bronze medals at the World Karate Commission (WKC) Nationals in Ottawa.
They will be advancing to compete at Worlds, this fall which will be in Spain. They all worked and trained so hard just to represent Saskatchewan and competed to make the Canadian Team.
To represent Canada is one the greatest honours
one will ever achieve. Robyn Vilcu, Brenden Hope, and Chase Furgason from Vilcu’s Karate Klub all placed third. Robyn in 18+ Chinese softstyle, Brenden and Chase in 14 years and 15 years continuous sparring Brenden was in over 70 kg and Chase was in a division of under 70 kg.
Caramia Hope also competed in 18+ Chinese soft style and placed as first alternate to fourth place for Worlds qualifications.
Saskota Baseball League made return to ball diamonds for season
David Willberg
SaskToday.ca
Southeast Saskatchewan’s boys of summer are about to make their return to ball diamonds throughout the region.
Opening day for the Saskota senior baseball league held May 19. The circuit will once again have 10 teams, providing entertaining action for fans in the area. And teams will once again aim to knock the Carlyle Cardinals from their perch.
The Cardinals are seeking their seventh straight Harborne Cup title as the league champions. Joining them will be the Estevan Tower Wolves, the Estevan-based Southeast Diamondbacks, the Arcola Threshers, Carnduff Astros, Kenosee Cubs, Moosomin Badgers, Oxbow Chiefs, Redvers As and Weyburn Sun Devils.
The number of games in the regular season has increased from 14 to 16, said president Riley Singleton. Teams will play twice against seven other clubs, and once against the other two teams.
“There’s been a little bit of shuffling around [with rosters], but teams are looking good and everybody is eager to get going,” said Singleton. The season will wrap up with the Harbourne Memorial Tournament at Woodlawn Regional Park. The Diamondbacks will be the host team.
“There was some other interest, but quite often when one team has strong interest [in hosting], the other teams allow them to have the rights to host it for a couple of years, and then move it on in two years’ time,” said Singleton. The Diamondbacks
were keen on hosting the tournament this year, Singleton said, and a lot of the umpires for the league are from the Estevan area. He added teams enjoy playing at Woodlawn. Joe Lingelbach Field at Mets Stadium will be the host venue.
Singleton added it helped that Woodlawn hosted the final game of the season last year. Rain delayed the 2025 championship game between the Diamondbacks and the Cardinals by a day, and the final was played at Mets Stadium instead of the designated host site in Carnduff.
“Coming down to watch that game, it was a pretty cool atmosphere down there. I think the biggest thing is that the ball diamond down there is a really good ball diamond. Teams really like playing there. To
have the tournament there for the weekend, with the park, the golf course and everything [Woodlawn] has to offer, it’s a ... real-
ly good spot for it,” said Singleton.
The tournament also carries a good economic boost for the host com -
munity, he said, and he predicted it should be beneficial for restaurants, the park and other attractions in the area.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn This Week
Agriculture committee wants federal research cuts reversed
Karen Briere SaskToday.ca
The House of Commons agriculture committee said Ottawa should “pause and reverse” its decision to close research centres and begin immediate consultation with all involved to understand the scientific and economic impacts.
The committee, during a study, heard from more than two dozen witnesses and received 15 written briefs, none of which supported the cuts announced in January.
On May 6, it released 20 recommendations, including one asking the government to reconsider canceling the organic and regenerative program at the Swift Current Research and Development Centre.
That program was the only government-led organic and low-input program in the country, and the committee heard public funding is critical to maintain research in sectors like it.
Seven organic organizations submitted a brief calling for the program headed by Myriam Fernandez to be saved.
“This program should be understood as part of Canada’s core public agricultural research infrastructure,” the brief said.
“Long-term organically managed field trials and regionally adapted systems research are national scientific assets that cannot be recreated once lost.”
Local leaders told the committee their communities will suffer without the jobs available to their residents.
Deputy agriculture minister Lawrence Hanson said about $90 million of the $300 million spent annually on research and development goes to maintenance and utilities at the centres.
The department said it would save $86 million this year, $41 million in 2027-28, $111 million in 2028-29 and $115 million the year after for total savings of $394 million.
The closures would save
$233 million over 10 years and $87 million in deferred maintenance costs.
However, the study notes that amount does not include the costs of relocation, divestiture and decommissioning, nor potential site remediation costs.
One recommendation calls for site-specific costbenefit analysis to justify the proposed closures.
The report said agriculture should be recognized as a strategic sector and an economic powerhouse.
Committee members urged the government to explore new collaborative models and better incentives for private sector companies to partner with public institutions, thereby increasing total funding for agricultural research.
However, the study also notes that some sectors lend themselves better to collaboration, while others, such as Fernandez’s program, rely on public funding and research.
Tyler McCann, managing director of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute, told the committee Canada has to do a better job of thinking about research investment from a national perspective.
Budget constraints have put the agriculture research system on the verge of crisis, the study noted.
Alison Sunstrum, from NYA Ventures, an ag tech venture fund, said chronic underfunding has already caused problems, and it’s time to revitalize research to capitalize on new technology.
“Without modern infrastructure, opportunity becomes aspiration. Public research builds the foundation. Private capital scales it,” she said.
“If public investment weakens, private capital moves elsewhere and it rarely returns.”
Protein Industries Canada chief executive officer Tyler Groeneveld said Canada is fifth behind the United Kingdom, United States, Germany and Australia in global food in -
Wind storm results in an influx of calls to SGI
SaskToday
SGI has already received dozens of calls due to the wind storm that slammed into Saskatchewan on May 13 and 14. According to an email from SGI media relations on May 15 at 2:43 p.m., SGI has received 27 wind-related auto claims in southern Saskatchewan.
The Crown corporation added this includes vehicles that were damaged by the wind or by objects blown into/onto them.
SGI Canada has received another 140 windrelated property claims from southern Saskatchewan, media relations said. Reported damage includes
novation and risks falling further behind if all players, including government, aren’t involved.
The report was tabled in the House of Commons and the government has 120 days to respond.
Also recently tabled was the committee’s report on its study of beef
and pork supply chain challenges and pricing.
The committee offered seven recommendations, including that Canada implement mandatory price reporting similar to that in the United States.
The committee recommended a transparent way to identify Canadian and
previously frozen foreign meat in the Canadian supply without jeopardizing trade obligations, and a protocol to allow provincial meat processing plants to sell interprovincially.
Government should support provincial plants to meet federal standards
but adapted to their operational scale so they don’t face such a high administrative burden and cost.
The committee also asked for regulatory amendments to harmonize specified risk material regulations with those of Canada’s main trading partners.
during a Mother’s Day themed program
We are seeking permanent Newspaper Carriers for
shingles tearing off buildings, trees falling onto property, and grain bins overturning. These figures do not include claims submitted to other insurers.
“It’s too early to tell the significance of this storm, as these are preliminary numbers and will likely grow once people have had a chance to assess the damage and file a claim,” SGI said in the email to SaskToday.
Customers can submit an auto or property claim online at mysgi.ca or contact SGI at 1-844-8552744. They can also get in touch with their local insurance broker or claims centre.
ROUTE 8 - 120 PAPERS
Mergens St., Lorraine St., Water St., Coteau Ave W. Hill Ave., Government Rd (203-445)
ROUTE 9A - 155 PAPERS
Government Rd., 1st St., 2nd St., Coteau Ave., Bison Ave., Foster St
ROUTE 15 - 145 PAPERS
Eaglesham Ave., Tom Hart Dr., Warren Ave., Dieppe Drive
Krista Klemmer created a bouquet of pipecleaner tulips
held recently at the Weyburn Public Library.
Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Rad for the Sad concert at skate park will provide EPYC support
Operation Clean Sweep helps beautification
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
City beautification efforts will be the focus of the annual Operation Clean Sweep campaign.
The initiative starts May 19 with City of Estevan crews cleaning the entrances and the outlying areas. The following day, they will clean all cityowned properties, including such green spaces as boulevards, medians, parks and natural areas.
City crews will pick up contained organic waste materials on May 21, such as twigs, leaves and yard refuse from front driveways in north Estevan. Branches must be bundled in three-foot lengths and leaves and yard refuse must be bagged.
The following day, city crews will pick up contained organic waste in the south end of the city.
According to information on the city’s website,
all items to be picked up May 21 and 22 must be on the driveway before 8 a.m. each day. Callbacks will not happen, the city said.
The city will also host a free landfill weekend from May 22-24 for city residents and their residential waste only. ID will be required.
Commercial properties will not be included in the free landfill weekend, the city said. Items that can be dropped off for free in-
clude furniture, grass clippings, tree branches and regular household garbage, including most appliances. Refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners and mattresses/box springs are not included in the free drop-off.
All hazardous materials will not be accepted and any waste from rural customers will not be accepted for free.
Councillor Kirstten Walliser described the campaign as a good opportunity for people in the community, because some people don’t have access to a truck or a trailer.
SaskToday
The Estevan Public Youth Centre (EPYC) is organizing Rad for the Sad, an outdoor, all-ages community concert to be held June 6 at the Estevan skatepark.
The event will begin at noon and features live music from southeast band the Sad Dads, with an opening performance by Porphyrios, comprised of Daniel Espelien and his son Mavrik. The music is slated to begin at 1 p.m.
Family-friendly activities will include bouncy castles, ice cream, youth activities, and safe driving awareness initiatives. Young people are encouraged to bring and use their skateboards, BMX bikes and scooters at the skatepark.
A press release from EPYC said Rad for the Sad was created to bring the community together in support of local youth programming, while also promoting positive choices and impaired driving prevention awareness in southeast Saskatchewan. Admission to the event is free for youths ages 17 and under and $5 for adults.
“This event is about more than music,” said EPYC executive director Lindsey Bigsky.
“It’s about creating safe, positive experiences for youth and families while bringing awareness to important conversations around safe choices, community connection and prevention.”
EPYC said it continues to play a critical role in the community by providing young people with a safe, welcoming environment where they can connect, participate in activities, build relationships and feel supported. Programs offered through EPYC help create opportunities for youth engagement, mentorship, recreation and personal growth.
EPYC noted events like Rad for the Sad help ensure the youth centre can continue offering impactful programming for local youths while also creating affordable, inclusive experiences for families in the community. Community members are encouraged to attend, support local youth initiatives and enjoy an afternoon of music, activities and connection. EPYC added sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses and organizations looking to support youth programming and prevention initiatives in the community.
Former Estevan Bear wins national junior A hockey title
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
A former member of the Estevan U18 AAA Bears is a national junior A hockey champion.
She added Clean Sweep is a chance for people to clean up their yard and the community before the Golden Garbage Can competition with Weyburn. Judging is slated to occur June 17. Estevan won the resurrected showdown last year.
Also, a household hazardous waste collection event is slated for May 26 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the parking lot where the Civic Auditorium was located. City manager Jeff Ward said a third-party contractor will come, assess the waste and properly dispose of it if they can.
Flammable liquids, physically hazardous products, aerosols, toxic liquids, pesticides and corrosive items will be accepted. Some items won’t be accepted.
More information can be found on the City of Estevan’s website.
Defenceman Jase Konecsni helped the Niverville Nighthawks win the Centennial Cup tournament in Summerside, P.E.I. The Nighthawks, who won the Manitoba Junior Hockey League title to reach nationals, defeated the host Summerside Western Capitals 4-1 in the national final May 17.
Originally from Southey, Konecsni played for the Bears in the club’s first two full seasons in the Saskatchewan Male U18 AAA Hockey League. He recorded seven goals and 20 points in 87 games during those two campaigns.
Konecsni started his junior hockey career with the Melville Millionaires of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League in 202324, but was dealt to Niverville after playing 11 games with Melville. He played 2
1/2 seasons with Niverville, which is located just outside of Winnipeg. This season, his last in junior hockey, Konecsni recorded one goal and 10 assists for 11 points in 56 games, and added two assists in 13 playoff games as the Nighthawks won their first MJHL title in their four-season franchise history. In six games at the Centennial Cup, Konecsni had three assists, including a helper on Niverville’s third goal.
Candice Englot, Mike Grobbink, Michael Hengen (Kingston Midstream) Blake Fornwald (Lampman Recreation), Jonathan Kowal & Ed McMillen (Tundra)
The Sad Dads will perform live music, as family activities and more will take place June 6 at an event organized by the Estevan Public Youth Centre.
Photo courtesy Photo sourced the Sad Dads’ Facebook page
JASE KONECSNI
Estevan police notice difference from child interview room
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The Estevan Police Service (EPS) said its new child and youth interview room has proven to be beneficial when interviewing young people who are connected to an investigation.
The room, which the EPS has previously described as a “safe space”, was made possible through $56,500 in funding from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund. The area was completed in January and has been used by a few different agencies since that time. The civil forfeiture fund covered the bulk of the cost, Police Chief Jamie Blunden said, and the city’s budget accounted for the rest of the expense.
Blunden said the room has been used a handful of times, and he doesn’t want to see it used frequently. It has been well received by young people and the different agencies. He added Southeast Regional Victim Services and young people have been pleased with their experience.
He compared the room to “a little den”, with sitting spaces that allow a child to be comfortable in the chairs. They can enjoy reading, colouring and other activities. Bean-bag cushions are available for the
older teens. A padded tree provides children a place to read and an area is designated for the interview.
“The room itself is set up with both microphones and video to capture every spot within that room, so that way any sort of interaction with the child or the youth is captured and is accessible for the courts to be able to view,” said Blunden.
Children 17 years of age and under can access the room.
“It’s geared towards kids that are younger ... but teenagers that are 16 or 17 can come in and relax in the chairs at the far end and still be comfortable in that room,” said Blunden.
Donations have come in so a child can take home a toy or a gift once the interview is finished. It could be mittens or a scarf for the winter, or a stuffed animal.
“It’s very well set up for those kids to be able to come, be a child,” said Blunden. “We get the information that we need to get and make sure they’re supported throughout the time.”
The EPS has been given the green light to eventually have young people testify remotely from the room for court proceedings.
Term limits could be coming for Estevan police board members
Term limits could soon be in place for members at large of the Estevan board of police commissioners.
During the May 11 meeting, Estevan city council approved a report that would limit at-large members to four consecutive two-year terms. Council will still need to give an amended police board bylaw three readings before the change is official.
In a report to council, city clerk Josh Shitta-Bey said the current bylaw speaks to term limits for members of council appointed to the police board. Each of the six councillors is eligible for appointment to the board for a two-year period during their term.
Members at large are appointed for two years, but there isn’t a term limit.
Councillor Kirsten Walliser pointed out the member-at-large role has a lot of responsibility and information, so having the ability to renew a term is important, but after four consecutive two-year terms, there is an opportunity for someone new to step in.
Request denied Council denied a request from Explore Inc. to
upgrade its existing telecommunications tower at the Souris Valley Museum.
Councillor Shelly Veroba noted the current tower is a 12-metre wooden pole with a security fence east of the main building. The request, she said, is to replace it with a 45-metre tower, a shed and a back-up generator. The city, as the landowner, can say no to the project, she said.
According to Veroba, the Souris Valley Museum has concerns about the proposal.
“The museum views the proposal as ... incompatible with the goals of the museum and their outdoor displays. Long-term, it is also noted that the museum has a tight building area, so the proposed tower would add constraints to future building expansions and outdoor displays.”
Development permit Council approved a development permit request on Milne Crescent to allow for a garage with a secondary suite.
Land development services manager Richard Neufeld said his office didn’t receive any opposition to the project.
He received a phone inquiry from someone
who said they’re okay with the project.
Veroba added council has received opposition to such proposals in the past, but with the demand for housing in Estevan, a secondary suite would be welcome.
Albert Street lot
Council also approved a report to divide an existing lot on Albert Street so that each existing home can be on its own title.
Neufeld noted that a house was originally constructed on the property in the early 1960s, and in 2013 a second dwelling was built with a breezeway that connected the two homes. A fire destroyed the breezeway, he said, the property changed ownership a couple times and now the current landowner wants to subdivide so each dwelling has its own property.
It’s not a situation the city wants to endorse, he said, but the city wants to make the best of the situation and he believes the alternative was worse.
A neighbour is opposed to the project, Veroba said, for multiple reasons, including use of taxpayer dollars to separate the two homes. Neufeld said the
work would be at the cost of the developer.
Council approved the request. Walliser declared a conflict of interest due to friendship with the developers.
Utilities and infrastrucutre report
The April report from utilities and infrastructure director Matt Angell showed the water treatment plant processed a total of 109,461,000 litres. Of this, 100,195,100 litres were distributed into the municipal water system. Additionally, the bulk water fill station dispensed 685,070 litres.
No operational upsets occurred at the plant, he said, and all regulatory parameters for drinking water
quality were met in full compliance with provincial standards.
Painting Project
The sandblasting and painting project for walls and beams at the Power Dodge Arena will not proceed this year, Angell said, as the two tenders came in well above the budgeted amount of $80,000. The lower of the two bids was for $227,500. The city is looking at alternatives to clean up paint that is starting to chip off the beams while beautifying the facility.
Walliser wanted to know if there would be safety concerns or impacts for users. Angell noted the maintenance crew has already removed a lot of the
paint to keep it from falling on the ice.
Veroba asked if the city would be able to find something in the desired price range for next year. Angell said the city is now looking at some different options beyond sandblasting and repainting, and the city will reach out to other communities to look at what they have done.
Deputy Mayor Councillor Dave Elliott, who has been the deputy mayor, chaired the open portion of the meeting as Mayor Tony Sernick was unable to attend. Sernick was present for the committee portion of the meeting.
Councillor Tom Mauss was also not at the meeting.
The new child and youth interview room at the Estevan police station Photos courtesy of Estevan Police Chief Jamie Blunden
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
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spring clean up was held at the Weyburn
on May 16. The animals will arrive at the end of
opening on June 6.
Time to solve the crossword puzzle
CLUES ACROSS 1. Streetcar
5. Take __ of it!
10. SW Asia peninsula
12. Beating wings to escape from a perch
14. One who revitalizes
16. Indicates position
18. Dishonorable man
19. Singer King Cole
20. Short-tailed marten
22. One point east (clockwise) of due north
23. The god of the underworld in ancient mythology
25. Dirt
26. Superconducting super collider
27. Not good
28. A way to sink
30. Unwell
31. Follow orders
33. Deep ravine
35. Perfumery practice
37. Indian film director Sultan
38. Member of U.S. Navy
40. Wing-like
41. Very fast airplane
42. Slang for cigarette
44. Most cars still need it
45. Political war chest
48. Cools down 50. Diminish toward one end
52. Indigenous person of Thailand
53. Combined 55. Container
56. Expression of satisfaction
57. Thou
58. Return a favor
63. Go over once more
65. Removed
66. “Silence of the __”
67. Comedian Rogen CLUES DOWN
1. Children’s game 2. Relative biological effectiveness (abbr.)
3. Own (Scottish) 4. Female follower of Bacchus
5. Subsides
6. Protects from weather
7. Spanish municipality
8. Supermarket chain 9. Domain name
Crossword puzzle answers
10. Semitic peoples
11. Designs anew 13. City associated with Jesus 15. Cool! 17. Bank employee 18. Central nervous system
21. Standardized piece of text
23. A type of fever 24. Baglike structure in a plant or animal 27. Threaten persistently
29. Aspirations
32. Baby’s eating accessory
34. Actress Thurman
35. Turn into bone
36. One who saves you 39. Consume
40. Swiss river
43. A part of a river where the current is very fast
44. Categories
46. Expressed amazement
47. It’s important in respiration (abbr.)
49. Greek war dance 51. Bland, semi-liquid food
54. Regard in a specified way
59. Taxi 60. Naturally occurring solid material
61. Feline
62. Post-burning residue 64. Elevated railroad
Weyburn4Warmth wraps season
Submitted by Sharlene Stanley Weyburn4Warmth held their last monthly meeting on May 13, and will not meet again until September.
The group has had a very successful start to this new initiative providing Weyburn with items of warmth and comfort made from donated materials. Nearly 20 makers attended this meeting submitting their completed projects. The makers also sorted through several bags of donated yarn and fabric and finished items that had been donated in the donation barrels.
The makers reviewed the first months of making and donating. The total count of items of warmth donated to the community of Weyburn and area is almost 2000. That is many, many hours of donated time to create these lovely items. The group tried to predict items that will be needed in the fall.
Weyburn4Warmth was formed officially in August 2025 with a handful of interested women. From that small group they have grown to approximately 45 people on the email list. About 25 makers usually attend meetings. Some makers live outside the im-
mediate area residing in the southeast part of Saskatchewan, specifically Gainsborough and Carnduff.
Some items are returned to the area through Sunset Haven Care Home at Carnduff.
Items are distributed through facilities such as:
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Calvary Baptist Church
Canadian Mental Health Association
Envision Counselling Family Place
Legacy Park School
Midtown Care Home
Salvation Army
Southeast Advocates
Southeast Victim Services
St. Michael School
Sunset Haven
Tatagwa View
Weyburn General Hospital, Cancer Ward
Weyburn Comprehensive School
Weyburn Public Library
Weyburn Special Care Home
Weyburn Youth Center
Yellow Grass School
Commonly requested items are toques, mittens, scarves, and slippers. Crocheted and quilted blankets are also very appreciated. The makers have diversified to fill requests for
other items such as fiddle mats for dementia patients, tote bags for the libraries, shirt savers made from men’s shirts and chemo caps for the cancer ward at Weyburn General Hospital. It is truly amazing what this group can create from donated materials.
Weyburn4Warmth will be taking a break from meetings through the summer, but many makers will continue to knit, sew, and crochet. This shows the need that donations of materials are needed throughout the year for this wonderful charity to continue. Donation barrels are located at the Weyburn Public Library and Collabartive Studios. Any continued support is appreciated. Weyburn4Warmth would like to thank Calvary Baptist Church for the use of their basement for storage and meetings.
Weyburn4Warmth is the type of charity that can be easily worked into anyone’s schedule.
Weyburn4Warmth will meet again Wednesday, September 9 at the Calvary Batist Church. Everyone welcome.
Bonnie Honig displayed her latest colourful crocheted blanket during a Weyburn4Warmth meeting.
Photo courtesy of Sharlene Stanley
Celebrating Paramedics who serve Weyburn
Four local paramedics shared why they are proud to be working in southeast Saskatchewan.
Celebrate paramedics in your community during the annual Paramedic Services Week.
Cassondra Haider
Years: Four as a Primary Care Paramedic Community/Volunteer involvement: Weyburn Paramedics With Heart and Race Creator/Director for Hearts On The Run.
Why are you proud to be serving Weyburn?
My family is from the area, so it’s meaningful to be close to where my roots are. I want to provide the same level of care to my patients that I would want for my own family and friends. This community has become home to me, and I’m proud to be part of it. Serving here means caring for neighbours, friends, and families - and that makes this role even more meaningful.
Kaitlyn Fraser
Years: Nine as an Advanced Care Paramedic Community involvement: Weyburn Paramedics with Heart, Community Paramedicine.
Why are you proud to be serving Weyburn?
This is my hometown. I want to provide the community I grew up with and the people I love with the exceptional care that I would want to receive.
Pam Rowland
Years: 16 years in EMS.
In 2010, I began working as an EMR for Pangman EMS
and shortly afterwards began my career working as a Paramedic for Weyburn EMS. I’m able to volunteer some of my free time to Weyburn Paramedics of Hearts. We have many local fundraising events where we can give back to our community! I also have a passion for working with Medical First Responders on an instruction level in our area. They make a huge impact on rural calls, always first on scene, and we are always extremely impressed with their knowledge and professionalism. Thank you to all our Medical First Responders! I’ve met so many wonderful people in this community.
Community/Volunteer involvement: With my involvement in education, sports, work and volunteering, I am fortunate to call them all family! I’m so proud of all the EMS practitioners who absolutely go beyond what is expected of them. Working long hours, shift work, weekends, holidays, overtime or just working a bad call, through all that they are still able to give their patients the best care they deserve and need.
Why are you proud to be serving Weyburn?
I am super proud of this community for allowing us to step into their lives when they need us, regardless of the seriousness of their concerns we will always show them compassion, and make sure they get the best possible care. Thank you to my EMS family for years of friendships, laughs and support!
Jola Erb
Years: Three, started my EMS journey in 2023
Community/Volunteer involvement: I stay involved in the community in a variety of ways and with different groups. I enjoy keeping busy and being part of initiatives that help bring people together. Whether it’s volunteering, supporting local events, or helping organize community activities, I really enjoy giving back and helping create a positive environment for others.
Why are you proud to be serving Weyburn? I’m proud to serve Weyburn because it’s such a supportive community filled with great people. Being able to help others during difficult moments and make a positive difference in someone’s day is incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful to work alongside amazing coworkers while serving a community that always supports one another.
