A John Deere combine was busy as a farmer took a crop off a field west of Weyburn. Hot, dry weather has caused crops to mature fast, and many producers were out in the fields in the area getting the crops in the bin.
RMs urge federal government to resolve rail labour dispute
As a nationwide labour dispute looms between Canada’s two major freight railways and the union representing workers at each, the associations representing rural municipalities in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba are extremely concerned about the impacts that a rail work stoppage would have on Prairie agricultural producers, consumers and other industries crucial to rural communities.
The Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA), Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), and Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) are urging Steven MacKinnon, federal Minister of Labour, to order binding arbitration if the railways and union are unable to reach an agreement prior to Thursday, when labour disruptions would begin. Even a short-term work stoppage will have massive impacts on the agriculture sector, which already struggles to access rail cars to move harvests to market.
“Canada’s Labour Code allows the Minister
to require binding arbitration for situations just like the one looming later this week,” explained Bill Huber, SARM acting President. “Both CN and CPKC provide Prairie farmers with critical access to markets. Without trains running, the livelihoods of thousands of producers are at risk. If Minister MacKinnon does not act on requiring binding arbitration, he and his government must be willing to live with the economic and social consequences the decision will bring across the Prairies.”
The RMA, SARM and AMM represent rural municipalities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba respectively. Members of each association provide municipal guidance and services to municipalities that host the vast majority of western Canada’s agricultural production. Across the Prairie provinces, a strong, stable agriculture industry is directly linked to vibrant and sustainable rural communities. Access to rail is an essential aspect of industry and community strength, and it cannot be
undermined by labour disputes, particularly when the Government of Canada has tools available to resolve the dispute fairly through binding arbitration.
“This is not simply a labour issue; it is an economic development issue, it is a community sustainability issue, it is even a food security issue. While I understand that the Minister wants to allow the railways and union as much time as possible to negotiate, not stepping in to protect rural livelihoods and commun-
ities will escalate this from a labour dispute into a situation that puts entire rural communities and industries at risk,” commented RMA President Paul McLauchlin.
Much of the grain produced in the Prairie provinces is exported internationally, meaning that without rail access to international ports there are simply no alternative markets available for producers. This creates significant issues locally through strain on grain-handling and storage facilities, as
well as related to Canada’s international reputation as a stable and high-quality agricultural producer.
If international customers are unable to trust the reliability and timeliness of Canada’s agriculture industry, they will begin to look elsewhere, which will create a ripple effect throughout the industry and rural communities.
“Agriculture is a sophisticated, complex, and internationally connected industry based on a complex worldwide supply chain.
When one of the first ‘links’ in that chain is compromised, as would be the case if a rail work stoppage occurs, the impacts are widespread, in Canada and across the world,” explained AMM President Kam Blight. “We are very concerned that a work stoppage will not only place several municipalities at risk in the short-term but will create a significant reputational and logistical challenge that could harm local communities and across western Canada for years to come.”
Wildlife Federation to hold Family Fun Day
The Weyburn Wildlife Federation will be holding a family fun day at their clubhouse, located on Highway 35 south of Weyburn, on Saturday, Aug. 24.
There will be something for the whole family to enjoy, and activities will go from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come on out and try some wildlife-related activities, free of charge. No experience or equipment needed.
The organizers only ask that those interested
register in advance to ensure there is enough for everyone. Participants can try archery or learn more about nature and habitat, or learn fishing basics.
Activities include building your own birdhouse and participating in a nature hunt. Children who are nine and under must be accompanied by an adult for the activities.
Lunch will be available for purchase in the clubhouse.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
COMMUNITY
Giving tips on painting project
SE College appoints interim president-CEO
The Southeast College’s board of governors announced that Jody Holzmiller will fill the role of Interim President and CEO, effective immediately.
Holzmiller has been a part of Southeast College for the past 20 years. She holds master’s degrees in Leadership as well as Educational Administration. Her most recent position at the College was Vice President, Professional Training and Continuing Studies.
“Jody is a trusted leader who cares passionately about Southeast College,” said Board of Governors Chair John Williams. “She is highly respected within the College, the College
system, and the communities that we serve. Jody has built an extensive network of strong relationships during her tenure that is key to the ongoing growth and success of Southeast College.”
The Board of Governors will be undertaking work
on an extensive recruitment strategy to fill the President and CEO position on a permanent basis over the next year.
Southeast College is proud to offer innovative and flexible programming that encourages students to learn where they live.
Southeast District seeks leaders for fitness program
The Southeast Sport Culture and Recreation District is seeking local leaders for the Forever … in motion program for seniors, and will hold a training session on Sept. 6-8 in Midale.
Anyone can become a Forever … in motion local leader. You can be of any age with no previous experience.
Forever … in motion is an initiative that helps older adults become physically active through volunteer led physical activity groups. Forever … in motion was developed by the Saskatchewan Health Authority (former Saskatoon Health Region) and is provincially implemented by the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association.
Toy Run to be held for Salvation Army
The Weyburn Independent Riders will again be collecting toys for the Salvation Army, with their annual Toy Run on Saturday, Sept. 7. Last year, the group opted to collect food donations instead of toys as the need was greater.
This year, the Riders will return to collecting toys for
the Salvation Army to distribute through Christmas hampers this holiday season.
The Riders will have their Santa sleigh parked at the Wal-Mart store on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 5 and 6, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., collecting toy or monetary donations.
The parade of motor-
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cycles will be held on Sept. 7, leaving from the Legacy School bus lot at 1 p.m.
The Riders route will take them through the city down Third Street through the downtown area, across Highway 39 and end at River Park. The donations of toys and cash will then be delivered to the Salvation Army.
The training workshop will be held on Sept. 6 from 1-5 p.m., and on Sept. 7 and 8 fro 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Harry O. Memorial Arena in Midale. The deadline to register is Aug. 23, and the cost is $50, which includes the training manual.
Role of Local Leaders:
• To lead a safe and appropriate exercise program for older adults
• To promote healthy physical activity among older adults
• To provide an opportunity for socialization for participants
The preferred qualifications for those wanting to become a Forever … in motion Local Leader include being willing to participate in a 20-hour Forever … in motion Leader Training Workshop; a sincere interest in being a peer leader for other
older adults; being willing to lead Forever … in motion classes; good listening, communication and leadership skills; enthusiastic and able to motivate others; demonstrates a personal commitment to an active lifestyle.
Training in First Aid and CPR, while not a requirement, is recommended.
The Forever … in motion - Leader Training Workshop will include the following:
• Potential leaders will be required to attend a 20 hour Forever … in motion Leader Training
• Workshop before they begin leading classes. This workshop will be led by an approved Forever … in motion trainer.
• There is a workshop fee of $50 to cover the costs of leader resources. This fee may be covered by the host community.
Leaders will be provided with information including the Forever … in motion Leader Training Manual with illustrations and written instructions for all of the approved exercises; the Forever … in motion Leader Training DVD, which demonstrates how to perform each of the approved exercises along with verbal instruction; a handout on chronic conditions and exercise; other relevant resources at the discretion of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association (SPRA) and the Forever … in motion trainer.
There will also be a quarterly Forever … in motion newsletter which includes a special Leaders section.
Adding
colours
to a tie-dye project
Siblings Sofia and Erik worked on adding their own variety of colours to a white shirt, as part of a class on making a tie-dye shirt at the Weyburn Public Library on Saturday afternoon.
Instructor Krystal Glowatski helped out Andrea Bayona, with Christina Mantei (foreground), Alexis Jack and program coordinator Maria Escobar working on their projects on Wednesday.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Jody Holzmiller
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
BUILDING A CULTURE OF COLLABORATION
Sabrina Kraft skraft@glaciermedia.ca
I recently have starting listening to Midst, a Podcast featuring collaborative story-telling. I am enjoying hearing the three different narrators add their own flavour, creativity and plot into the fictional world that they have built together.
No matter how you do it, collaborative storytelling is a great way to learn and grow as a writer. There are many times in my column writing career where I have struggled to find a new topic to cover, or question if what I find interesting would be welcomed by our readers.
While there is a saying that it is bad to have too many cooks in the kitchen, I feel the opposite is true for writing, as more than one mind can help create and generate ideas to flesh out a story.
Published authors can go through quite an extensive process to get their books on the shelves, including getting input from editors and publishers, and even joining an online writer’s platform like NaNoWriMo (national novel writing month).
Listening to a collaborative story, like Midst, where each narrator is saying ‘yes, and...’ to build the story and the world is quite engaging. The narrators are still able to have their own flavor and creative ideas, but by working together they are building a strong foundation for their world and their story.
Recently, Midst joined the creative team of Critical Role (promoted as a bunch of nerdy voice actors who like playing table-top role-playing games), and added two more narrators to their world. I was quite interested to watch the recent
‘Moonward’ series, and see how together, by playing their characters, each narrator was adding to the story.
There are many times in our lives when we need help and assistance to add to our own story, when there is a need for collaboration.
Communication and collaboration are a strong benefit to many organizations and non-profits in our community. In our community, there are many nonprofit arts organizations who have boards of volunteers who collaborate with stakeholders to develop initiatives that engage and inspire residents. One way non-profits can collaborate together is by sharing office space or by hosting a community program. Collaboration requires more of a commitment of time and resources from non-profit who take part, but that usually results in greater rewards.
Collaborations don’t happen overnight. The best fit for a group of non-profits to work together is to have shared values and care and feeding to build trust. They also require real engagement and investment of time by the members. There is a potential for shared staff, or even collaborating volunteers (and we have many passionate members of our community who wear multiple volunteer hats).
A good example of a collaborative event in our community is Communithon, which is organized by a board of community agencies. For those who might not be aware of the history of Communithon, this event was created as a fundraising event for several local non-profit groups. The representatives of several community
agencies work together with the general public to host a fun event, while raising funds for their programs.
Even in the political world, most democratic societies should have a collaborative relationship, where different parties decide on issues important to their municipality, province or country. It is frustrating some times when political leaders act more like bickering children in the classroom, and forget to respect and listen to other voices and ideas.
Political burnout happens just as quickly as volunteer burnout does, because there are times when you do not feel respected, or that your opinion does not matter. It is tough to feel like a team player, when there are members of the team who make negative comments about your work or your ideas. I find it especially hard during an election year, when some political candidates resort to deception and distraction, or aggressively attack another candidate’s character. It is possible to belong to a different party, and have different ways of approaching a problem, while still remaining respectful.
Human beings are one of the most social creatures on our planet. Cooperation lies at the heart of human lives and society — from day-to-day interactions to some of our greatest endeavours. True cooperation lies in the ability to listen, to trust, and to be open to change.
Hopefully for those who are looking to be part of a team, or collaborate on a new project, they keep an open heart and mind. Remember to act respectful and listen to the ideas of other volunteers at the table.
Helping teens overcome mental health issues
By Stan Popovich
Do you worry about how your son or daughter can handle today’s mental health issues such as bullying, peer pressure, depression, and addiction?
It can be challenging for your child to deal with various mental health situations and not know where to turn for assistance.
As a result, here are six suggestions a parent should follow in helping their children overcome the pressures of being a teenager.
1. One of the most important things a parent can do is to talk to their children about the current issues that they may be dealing with. Do not bombard your son or daughter with endless questions and do not get argumentative. Establish some kind of dialogue between you and your children so they will be willing to talk with you.
2. Education is key: Both parents should be familiar on the issues of bullying, suicide, addiction, and other mental health issues. Every teenager should be aware of the resources that are out there to help them, and they should be aware of where to go for help.
3. Watch out for any red flags and do not assume anything: If you notice any changes in your teenager’s moods or behaviors, do something about it by discussing these chan-
ges with your son or daughter. If things get serious, then talk to a counselor for some advice. Do not assume that your teenager is going through some kind of phase or that they will snap out of it.
4. Many teenagers are reluctant to talk to their parents because they are afraid their parents will get angry and take it out on them. Some teenagers may think their parents won’t be able to understand their situation. With this in mind, try to establish a sense of trust with your teenager and encourage them to come to you when they are struggling.
5. Get advice from other parents: If you have trouble getting your teenager to open up to you, try talking to other parents to see how they talk to their sons and daughters. You may get some helpful insights on how you can successfully engage your children.
6. See things from your children’s perspective: Many parents engage their children from their own point of view. Another helpful suggestion is to try to see things from your teenager’s perspective when dealing with their problems. Once you see things from your teenager’s point of view, you will be better able to get your teenager to open up to you.
Local programs receive support from Community Initiatives Fund
The Community Initiatives Fund (CIF) has approved 416 grants totaling $5,300,476 through its latest grant application intake. These grants will support innovative local initiatives, build vibrant communities and enrich the quality of life in 151 communities, including a number of programs in the Weyburn region. Under the community grant program, a number of Weyburn programs re-
ceived funding, including the Canadian Mental Health Association, which received $30,000 for a mental health program and activities.
The Color My World day care received $3,000 for their Movement and Wellness program; Tatagwa View long-term care home received $4,304 for seniors programming; and the Tatagwa Kidz Care day care received $3,000 for their Mindful Minis and YogaFit
programs.
The Family Place received a grant of $15,840, to go towards their Mini-Go preschool program. These programs offer opportunities for children and youth to gain knowledge, skills, and supports to promote positive mental health, self-esteem, and healthy lifestyle behaviours, and to ensure families have access to supports and resources to create healthy
Weyburn woman faces arson charges
A Weyburn woman, Charmaine Friesen, appeared in court on arson charges on Aug. 14 in Estevan, and was released on conditions.
Initially the Weyburn
police investigated a fire and determined it was an arson, and after further investigation, charged Friesen with arson with disregard for human life, remanding her in custody on Aug. 11.
Police then connected her with an arson from six months ago at a house, and from 2021, also at a house. She will next appear in provincial court in Weyburn on Sept. 10.
APAS voices worries over possible CP/ CPKC rail strike
Following the recent decision from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) continues to urge Canadian National Railway (CN), Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) and Teamsters Canada to reach a prompt resolution and avert any disruptions in rail service.
APAS also calls on the federal government to explore all options to prevent simultaneous work stoppages at both railways, to avoid financial damage to Saskatchewan’s agricultural producers, and to safeguard trading relationships with international customers.
The CIRB decision opens the door for workers at both CN and CPKC to take strike action as soon as Aug. 22, threatening billions of dollars in agricultural exports across the country.
Canadian grain exports
totaled $36.2 billion in 2023, with Saskatchewan making up over half of those exports, and 94 per cent of Canadian grain shipped by rail. In Saskatchewan, farmers rely heavily on the timely transportation of grain to ports, with an average distance of 1,850 kilometres by rail to market destinations.
As harvest season ap -
and caring environments.
Another 238 Summer Grant programs were approved, including the City of Weyburn’s Day Camp, which received $6,000 grant funding; Inclusion Weyburn received $5,000 for their inclusive summer camp program; the Southeast Regional Library’s Weyburn branch received $6,000 for the summer reading program; and the
proaches, a rail disruption could see farmers face delayed payments, as well as impact storage of on-farm inventory, jeopardizing producers’ cash flow and financial obligations.
The ability of Saskatchewan farmers to market their grain is also vital to the Canadian economy and to maintaining our nation’s reputation as a dependable trading partner.
Family Place received $6,000 for the Sunny Scholars summer program.
In the region, the Town of Stoughton received $6,000 for a summer day camp; the Ceylon Regional Park Authority received $1,900 for their Sunshine and Summertime Day Camp.
In Midale, the library received $2,000 for their summer reading program, and the Town of Midale
received $6,000 for their Keeping Cool in the Pool program. The Milestone branch of the library received $6,000 for their summer reading program.
The Ogema Regional Park Authority received $4,140 for a summer program, and in Radville, the Radville Laurier Regional Park received $6,000 for their Summer Adventures program.
Sunset time at Nickle Lake
The beautiful colours of sunset were captured overlooking Nickle Lake last weekend.
Photo – courtesy Arlett Ameerbeg
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Summertime is synonymous with outdoor fun, but along with the season’s joys come some common ailments. From sunburns and insect bites to seasonal allergies, treating these summertime booboos is essential for enjoying the warm months.
Sunburn
To treat a sunburn, apply cool compresses, aloe vera gel and moisturizers. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if you’re experiencing discomfort. Staying hydrated and avoiding further sun exposure until the burn heals is crucial.
Insect bites
To alleviate itching and swelling, apply an antihistamine cream or take an oral antihistamine. Refrain from scratching the affected area to prevent further irritation and potential infection. Use insect repellent when outdoors to avoid future bites.
Allergies
Ragweed and seasonal allergies can flare up during summer, causing sneezing, itchy eyes and congestion. Over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays can help manage symptoms. Limiting outdoor activities during peak pollen times and keeping your windows closed can also reduce exposure.
Heatstroke
Stay hydrated, seek shade and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to prevent heatstroke in hot weather. Additionally, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Dehydration
Signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, headache and fatigue. Drink plenty of fluids to combat dehydration and avoid alcoholic, sugary or caffeinated drinks.
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Whether you’re stocking up on sunburn relief, insect repellent, allergy medications or hydration solutions, your local pharmacy has everything you need to stay healthy and enjoy your summer to the fullest.
Learning how to pass the ball
Skylar Kreger, one of the coaches for the Little Ballers program, had this group of preschoolers learn how to pass the ball back and forth, during a fun session on Sunday afternoon at the Credit Union Spark Centre. The Little Ballers program is aiming to start up for a number of young age groups in mid-September, teaching youngsters the basics of basketball.
Weyburn Red Wings preparing for new season
The Weyburn Red Wings are making preparations for the upcoming 2024-25 season, with the fall training camp set for the long weekend of Aug. 30 to Sept. 2.
A total of 60 players will take part in the camp, with a mix of veterans, prospects and walk-ons, with sessions for the de -
fence, offence and goaltenders.
There will be scrimmages through the weekend, and the camp will culminate with the Red-andWhite game on Sept. 2.
The first preseason game will follow soon after, as the Red Wings will host the Melville Millionaires on Friday, Sept. 6 at
7 p.m., as part of a homeand-home series.
The Notre Dame Hounds visit on Tuesday, Sept. 10, then Weyburn will have a home-andhome series with their Highway 39 rivals, the Estevan Bruins, hosting Estevan on Friday, Sept. 13 and visiting Estevan on Sept. 14.
Meanwhile, the board positions have been set for the Red Wings, with Lori McIntosh as the new president, Pat Grunert as vice-president, treasurer Anne Phair, secretary Natascha Jasper, governor Lee Moen, and directors Jean Hobbs, Tyler Istace, Chad Ror and Cory Pompu.
Football players pick up equipment
Players with Weyburn Minor Football’s three teams lined up to be sized and fitted for their equipment on Monday evening at the Weyburn Minor Football field. This was the opening day for the 2024 season, and practices for the U10, U12 and U14 teams began on Tuesday and was held every night this week.
SPORTS SERVICE DIRECTORY
Weyburn Soccer to hold annual meeting Sept. 10
The Weyburn Soccer Association will be holding their annual general meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 7 p.m. in the RM of Weyburn community meeting room.
Weyburn Soccer will be seeking volunteer positions for the upcoming soccer seasons for two-year and one-year positions.
WSA is limited to 12 directors on the board. See the available positions in the link provided at https:// forms.gle/yW3YQZPowcBhaBVTA
Space is provided on the form to include a bio and commitment. This information will be required if a vote for members is needed.
Positions up for election include treasurer, registrar, fields and equipment, sponsorship, and sub-positions including a referee-inchief, female development coordinator, grassroots coordinator and the adult soccer coordinator. No experience is necessary for any of these positions.
‘Arm Wars’ tournament to be held at Legion Hall
An arm-wrestling tournament will be held at the Weyburn Legion Hall on Saturday, Aug. 24, with a variety of age and weight classes.
Weigh-ins for competitors will be from 10 a.m. to noon, and the “Arm Wars” double-elimination tournament will get underway at 1 p.m.
There will be early weigh-ins on Aug. 23 from 7 to 9 p.m.
Weight classes include, for women, 70 kg and 70-plus kg, and for men, 70, 80, 90, 100 and 100-plus kg categories.
There will also be categories for youth, including a nine-and-under mixed category; 13-andunder mixed, 14-18 boys, and 14-18 girls. The cost to enter is $10 per youth, and $30 entry per arm for adults. There will be no charge for spectators to attend the tournament. If you are interested in competing, give Mike Gass a call at 306-541-7310. For this Saturday only, the Weyburn Legion will be opening at 11 a.m. and selling build-a-burgers, hot dogs and French fries from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Southeast College is changing up their annual “Swing for Scholarships” golf tournament, with one tourney set for the area.
The tournament will be held at the White Bear Lake Golf Course on Friday, Sept. 13, with a shotgun start at noon.
With the date of the event, the theme for the tournament is “Friday the 13th”, and entries are $150 per golfer, which includes 18 holes of golf and a steak dinner, and $45 per plate for those who only want to attend the dinner. Proceeds from the tournament will go to support post-secondary education, and towards funding scholarships for students attending Southeast College.
For those who are unable to participate in the tournament, they can visit the college’s website for other ways to support the scholarship fund. The college is seeking sponsorships for various aspects of the tournament, such meal sponsors, hole sponsors, safe ride sponsors, skills hole sponsors and the Drive for Education sponsorship, along with prizes, and the presenting sponsor. To sponsor the tournament, or to register for the event, call or text 306891-6662, or call 306-8482530. Those interested can also visit https://portal4484. wixsite.com/southeast-college-fo.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
DINO-RIFIC ACTIVITIES for fans of the Jurassic era!
