review weyburn
Vol.114 No. 47 - Weyburn, Saskatchewan
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 - 10 Pages
By Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Residents of the RM of Weyburn brought their questions and frustrations with the proposed Enbridge wind turbine project to a public meeting on Thursday evening at Cecilia’s Hall.
The newly-elected council was present for the meeting, which was called following a petition submitted requesting that one be held on the issues around the project. A lawyer from SARM was also present, and three representatives from Enbridge were on hand to provide information.
RM resident Kim Brady told the Enbridge representatives early on they didn’t really want them there, but many of the questions that arose were aimed at the company.
The SARM lawyer, Mike Morris, explained the legal process that the RM council will have to follow if they are going to amend their zoning bylaw and Official Community Plan, and any amendments made has to have approval by the Minister of Government Relations.
He noted while this meeting was petitioned for, it does not replace an RM council meeting where votes are taken on the zoning bylaw, if amendments are proposed.
Asked if the RM will conduct an impartial and full environmental review of the proposal, residents were told the RM will do the best job they can, and that they have really good staff capable of carrying out any required work. If they need further assistance, such as legal help, they will be able to access that as well.
Pressed on this, the
residents were told if the RM staff doesn’t have the expertise to look into this, they will look to an outside party to help them out. On issues like noise levels and setbacks, the Enbridge representatives said they will endeavour to follow the RM’s bylaws.
Sam Munckhof-Swain, director, Indigenous economic partnerships for Enbridge, acknowledged that they were putting the council in a tough spot, and also gave an apology for how the news about the proposal came out, shocking and angering many residents.
He said Enbridge will be holding an open house on Dec. 11 at McKenna Hall, and they will be providing an update on the project, including adjustments that they have apparently made to the timeline and to the proposed setbacks, based on the feedback they have been getting from RM area residents, “so we have enough time to get it right.”
In a statement made by Enbridge after the meeting, the company said, “At the town hall, we plan to share a new project schedule that will allow more time for community engagement and a revised wind turbine layout that incorporates larger minimum residential setback distances, among other design considerations. In the meantime, Enbridge remains committed to having conversations with Weyburn-area residents, gathering input and working with the community to help shape what we believe will be a beneficial project for the area and the local economy.”
As the meeting went on, many questions were referred to the upcoming
Page 10
It’s Back! Christmas Cash
Former coach encourages players
Jacquie Williams gave the address at the opening ceremonies for the 5A girls championship.
The SXS Group sings in ‘Popstars – the 90s’ musical The SXS Group posed as they sang in the stage musical,“Popstars – the 90s”, to be performed Nov. 20-22 at the Comp School, along with a dessert theatre matinee on Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. The group includes Ivan Zaika, Markuss Skujins, Isa Olvera, Maryann Ejiofor and Lily Moffat.
Weyburn RM residents bring questions on turbines to newly-elected council
open house, where more details will be spelled out about the project and how they are responding to residents’ concerns.
Newly-elected Reeve Bud Grohn told the company representatives, “I don’t feel this should cost taxpayers one single dollar to bring this into the community. That’s the only reason I ran for council – I didn’t do this for fun.”
In response to what they would do if the noise levels exceed what’s in the RM bylaws, Munckhof-Swain said, “What
we’ll do is make sure we comply with your bylaw. It’ll be on us to fix it.”
Residents questioned the continued use of a health study done in 2014 on wind turbines, as Brady pointed out the study itself states it is not to be applied to any areas outside of the study area, and that the study authors felt it was inconclusive.
One resident asked if the council was willing to send this project to a referendum of the ratepayers, and they mostly nodded their assent.
Continued on page 4
The Saskatchewan Power Corporation will be appealing the convictions that they violated Occupational Health and Safety regulations, in relation to the deaths of two linemen in Weyburn in 2020, along with the fines levied in court.
The Crown corporation was fined a total of $840,000 for the convictions, with the penalty imposed in Weyburn provincial court on Oct. 18. These are among the highest fines ever imposed on a company for such charges in Saskatchewan.
SaskPower was found guilty on April 6 on three counts of violations of the Occupational Health and Safety regulations, and the Saskatchewan Employment Act, after two SaskPower linemen, Scott Bill and Cole Crooks, died in a workplace incident on Oct. 8, 2020, in Weyburn.
The two men were more than 15 feet above ground in a bucket truck that had had tilting issues, tying in power lines on Government Road South and Sixth Avenue, when the bucket tilted and both men fell to the ground, killing both workers.
Following an investigation, SaskPower was charged with four counts of violations, and were subsequently found guilty of the first three counts.
These charges stated the following: “Count 1 alleged that SPC failed to provide and maintain plant, systems of work and work environments, as reasonably practicable, to ensure the health, safety and welfare of Messrs. Bill and Crooks at work.
“Count 2 alleged that SPC failed to provide any information, instruction, training and supervision necessary to protect the workers.
“Count 3 alleged that SPC failed to require or permitted the workers to be raised on an aerial device without using a personal fall arrest system that met the requirements under the legislation.” Judge Michelle Brass fined SaskPower $300,000 on the first count plus a surcharge of $120,000, and $150,000 on each of the other two counts, along with surcharges of $60,000 on each charge, for the total of $840,000.
SaskPower confirmed they are appealing the convictions and fines, but do not have a court date set as yet.
“This does not diminish the great loss of Scott Bill and Cole Crooks, and we reiterate our deepest condolences to their family and friends,” said a statement from SaskPower media relations.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Chatting after the RM meeting on turbines
Sam Munckhof-Swain, director, Indigenous economic partnerships for Enbridge, along with Alex McNichol, director power business development Canada, chatted with Kim Brady following the public information meeting hosted by the RM of Weyburn at Cecilia’s Hall on Thursday evening.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Weyburn Comp to present ‘Popstars – the 90s’ musical
The Weyburn Comp’s Senior Musical group have been hard at work rehearsing and will be performing “Popstars –The 90s” musical at the Cugnet Centre this week.
The first performance of “Popstars” was on Tuesday afternoon, and the remainder will be evening productions and a matinee dessert theatre on Sunday afternoon.
The musical will be held on Nov. 20, 21 and 22 at 7 p.m., and Nov. 24 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are $20 for adults, seniors and students are $15, and children five and under can get in for free with an adult ticket. Tickets for the dessert theatre are $25 each, and all tickets can be purchased at the Weyburn Comp School’s main office.
The story is set in a school in the 1990’s where Mark is head over heels in love with his girlfriend, Shannon Van de Witt. Mark is played by Jonas Burdan, and Shannon is played by Harper Williams.
When Shannon learns that pop-band impresario Simon Austin (Logan Caddick) is the surprise judge at the State Talent Show, she dumps him for her chance at showbiz stardom.
Mark rapidly goes from high school hero to high
school zero. His garage band buddies rally around him and soon a plan for revenge is hatched to change their grunge band to a boy-band and snatch the Talent Show title from Shannon’s Candy Girls, who include Tina (Jyllian Payak) and Steffi (Brinlee Klapak).
There’s just one small problem... the boys can’t dance. Mark enlists the help of the ultra-talented new girl, Ella (Kailynn McFadden) to help with their boy band make over and sparks soon fly.
Other cast members include Max Kilback as Patrick; Jayden Stang as Shane; Alex Paszkiewicz as Vinne; Cara Johnson as Charlie; Keira Mahnke as Carrie; Ella Leko as the host; Lily Moffat as the school principal; Ivan Zaika as the coach; Markuss Skujins as Pete; Beth Hamel as Amber Shue, and as a personal assistant.
The musical is packed with pop smash hits from the hyper-coloured 1990’s by artists such as The Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys, N*SYNC, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, MC Hammer and many more.
The musical director is Brayden Jensen, and the pit orchestra includes Jeff Lunde, Isaiah Perdis, Niomi Mile, Haroun Mathew and Davin Cascagnette.
Cast and orchestra ready for ‘Popstars’ musical
The entire cast, along with the pit orchestra, gathered on Sunday prior to their final dress rehearsal for “Popstars – the 90s” musical at the Weyburn Comp. Performance will run from Nov. 20-22 at 7 p.m., plus a dessert matinee on Sunday, Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at the Comp School’s main office.
Richards wins mayoral seat, overwhelming support
By Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
“The work starts now.”
Newly-elected mayor Jeff Richards stated this after learning the results of the City of Weyburn’s municipal election.
The final vote tallies showed Richards defeated incumbent Marcel Roy 1,755 to 855, with 21 votes for Bruce Croft. These numbers include the advance polls, mail-in ballots and special polls.
For council, Kellie Sidloski had the most votes with 2,052, including 705 in the advance poll, followed by Todd Bedore (1,861),
Larry Heggs (1,846), Laura Morrissette (1,808), Ryan Janke (1,783), and John Corrigan (1,574), with Dana Pretzer (1,125) and Lorrie Wiberg (1,056).
A total of 2,693 ballots were cast in this election, so with 8,264 eligible voters, there was a 32.6 per cent voter turnout.
“I’m very excited, and I’m gratified to have people who have put their foot forward to run in this election,” said Richards.
He added he is very grateful to out-going mayor Marcel Roy. “He was the first call I made, and I thanked him for working with a good campaign. We were very fortunate to have good people to run the city,” said Richards, noting he had a conversation with Marcel at the start of the campaign, and they agreed to run a good, positive campaign for the citizens of Weyburn.
Looking ahead, Richards said the first Number 1 job for the new council will be to put together the budget for 2025, and get council members onto the various committees and boards of the city.
“The campaign was one thing, but the work starts
now. I’ve talked to all the council members, and they agree. We’re here to work,” said Richards.
The good numbers of voters meant people were engaged in this election, and that is a good thing for the city, he said.
For his part, Roy was accepting of the vote results. “The people wanted a change. Running for a third term is always tough,” he said, noting he will help Richards in the transition to having a new mayor in the chair.
“Reflecting back over the past eight years I was there, we want the new council to come in and work together. There was a huge change in the provincial election, and we’ll see what new opportunities there will be as things change,” said Roy. “There’s always movement in politics. It was a good campaign.” Larry Heggs is back for a full term, after he first got on council via a byelection, and he said he’s satisfied with the results.
“I certainly look forward to working together with the new council,” he said, adding he was happy with how his campaign went,
Jeff Richards
and making sure people were encouraged to get out and vote.
New councillor Kellie Sidloski was a little bit surprised that she ended up with the most votes of anyone. “I’m looking so forward to getting going, and getting up to speed and getting right in there,” she said. Sidloski had started her campaign early by making a point of sitting down with key people in the community, including current and past members of council, to pick their brains on what they thought the top issues were. “I think I learned an awful lot to approach it that way. It was nice to sit down and get to know people, and hear further in-depth about how they’re feeling. I think it was a fantastic way to get to know people,” she said. Knowing that the budget will be on the agenda for the new council, she said that might’ve been intimidating, but there are seasoned experienced councillors who are also part of the team, and they will help her and the other new councillors learn what they have to do. The first meeting for the new council will be on Monday, Nov. 25 in the council chambers. Meantime, mayor-elect Richards was in City Hall on Thursday to meet with administration and get the ball rolling on the new council.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Mrs. Claus smiles in the snow
Mrs. Claus had smiles for everyone along the route for the Santa Parade in Midale on Saturday, as Santa drove the Town of Midale truck instead of riding in the back. The day was marked with wet, slushy snow, but everyone gathered afterward indoors in the 39ers Clubhouse on Main Street for hot dogs, treats and a photo with Santa.
Festival of Trees back to in-person auction for Family Place
The 25th anniversary of the Festival of Trees is returning to an in-person auction for the decorated Christmas trees, in support of the Family Place’s Early Years Family Resource Centre, along with a silent auction and raffles.
The set up of the trees took place on Monday and Tuesday, and the viewing of the decorated trees and silent auction items opens today, Nov. 20, at the Great Plains Ford auction building, located at 285 First Ave. SW.
Viewing of the trees will be open from Nov. 2023, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The viewing will be closed on Nov. 24, and open again on Monday,
Nov. 25 from 1-7 p.m., and on Tuesday, Nov. 26 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Those interested in bidding for the silent auction items can go to the tree auction’s Facebook page from Nov. 20-25. November 26 is also when pickup of the silent auction items will be held.
The evening for the tree auction, on Wednesday, Nov. 27, will be a ticketed event, at a cost of $20 for individuals or $150 for a table of eight. Tickets are available by calling the Family Place at 306-842-7477.
The final evening will begin with cocktails at 6 p.m., a presentation at 6:30 p.m. followed by the tree auction.
Weyburn police investigate B&E, theft from a storage bay
The Weyburn Police Service received 80 calls for service during the period of Nov. 11 to 17. Eleven charges were laid during this period – all related to Traffic Safety Act offences.
Police received a report of a break and enter to a storage bay on Nov. 12. Several items were reported stolen. Police believed the break and enter and theft occurred sometime over the previous weekend. The incident remains under investigation.
Also on Nov. 12, police received a report of a motor vehicle collision at a downtown business parking lot. The driver of the offending vehicle failed to report the collision to the other vehicle owner. A witness was able to ob-
WCS grad has successful fundraiser
The Weyburn Comp Grad 2025 fundraising crew is led by two Grade 12 students, Marin Kurtz and Falon Jordens. They are already busy at work with fundraising for their June Grade 12 gradua -
tion. Their first fundraiser was Growing Smiles, selling Christmas plants, which was a huge success, selling over 450 plants. Plant pick up will on Wednesday, Nov. 27 from 4-7 p.m. at 1975 First Av-
enue NE, , which is the Weyburn Dodge storage building, located beside Souris Family Dental. There are student volunteers helping with this as well as the Red Wings, who will unload trucks.
tain a license plate of the offending vehicle. The matter remains under investigation.
Officers observed a vehicle being operated erratically in the southwest area of the city late in the evening on Nov. 11. Police conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle, and the driver was found to be a suspended driver. The driver was charged with driving while suspended, and the vehicle was also impounded for 30 days.
Police were dispatched to residence in the northwest area of the city during the early morning hours of Nov. 17. The homeowners reported numerous people were on the property for unknown reasons. Upon police arrival, several youth were located. The youth were warned about trespassing and returned to their homes.
Police conducted focused traffic enforcement in and around school zones throughout the week.
Additionally, police conducted numerous compliance checks on individuals on release conditions. The compliance checks did not result in any charges.
*Anyone with information regarding one of these matters, or any other matter of a criminal nature, is encouraged to contact the Weyburn Police Service at (306) 848-3250, the local RCMP Detachment at 310-RCMP (7267), or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
4 agriculture, oil &business
Wind turbines issue to come up at SARM
mid-term convention
Delegates from Rural Municipalities will gather in Saskatoon today, Nov. 20 and Thursday, Nov. 21 for the annual mid-term convention, where one of the resolutions will relate to the wind turbine issue in the RM of Weyburn.
There will be a number of addresses, break-out sessions and debate on resolutions at the two-day fall gathering, held just one week after the municipal elections were held across the province.
Out-going SARM president Ray Orb will be sharing his views in a fireside chat, along with the incoming executive, and a session will be held for newly-elected RM councillors on public sector procurement.
There will also be information on the new Saskatchewan Marshals program, a review of the Municipal-
ities Act, and a peer group discussion session that will cover topics like irrigation, RMs bordering urban areas, and oil and gas tax arrears.
Among the resolutions to come up for votes on Wednesday will be one from the RM of Weyburn in relation to wind turbine projects.
As there are no regulations in place for wind turbine design constraints, the RM is asking that if the government is not willing to put regulations in place, then a moratorium needs to be implemented on wind projects until there are regulations for municipalities to follow.
“The RM of Weyburn has faced opposition from ratepayers and community members on this project. Provincial standards in place would assist council with a bylaw amendment and not make a decision based on personal opinion,” states the background supplied with the resolution.
Other resolutions to come up will include topics ranging from ditch mowing, construction delays, SaskPower rates for municipal rinks, to the federal capital gains tax and a request to reinstate strychnine for the control of gophers.
The sessions on Thursday will include a SARM legal question-and-answer session, preparing for revaluation in 2025, agricultural water drainage, a panel discussion on choosing rural Saskatchewan, and a presentation by STARS air ambulance.
Taking the picket to the streets
A group of postal workers on strike marched with their signs around Weyburn’s downtown area on Monday, seen here at the corner of Third Street and Railway Avenue. The Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) went out on strike on Friday, and as of Tuesday morning said the union and government were “far apart” from reaching any agreement.
RM residents raise concerns to council, Enbridge
Continued from front page Council members were asked if any of them had done any research into the whole issue of turbines and their effects on neighbouring properties and residents.
Josh Mainil noted he had, and had visited both the Assiniboia and Kipling sites of turbines as well as being in touch with those and other municipalities about the wind farms.
“I’ve been doing as much as I can to learn about them,” he said.
Mainil was asked by a resident if he stood by a
For more than 75 years, Enbridge has been more than pipelines in Saskatchewan. We’re a neighbour, committed to the places we live and work.
We create local jobs, support local businesses, and invest in what strengthens the community. In 2023 alone, we contributed over $500 million to Saskatchewan’s economy.
From powering homes and vehicles to fuelling local businesses, Enbridge is proud to be part of Saskatchewan’s growth.
Learn more at enbridge.com/saskatchewan.
statement said during the recent election campaign, that he doesn’t agree with delaying the turbine project at the risk of legal ramifications to the RM.
“I don’t think I said that. I don’t know why there would be legal ramifications to myself or the RM,” he said.
Resident Don Bourassa said he’s lived in the RM for 32 years, and he will have between 18 and 21 wind turbines within a five-mile radius of his home and he won’t receive one cent in compensation for that because none of these turbines will be on his land.
“You think that’s okay? All of a sudden I’ve got these things beside me, and that’s okay?”
Munckhof-Swain said if residents want to know
how they’ve adjusted the distances from residences and property lines, they need to come to the open house and see what the new updated plans are.
“We believe we can build this project responsibly, and it is going to provide a lot of value to the RM of Weyburn and RM of Griffin,” he said.
One resident pointed out there is land near Estevan that has no one living on it and is relatively near to transmission lines.
The Enbridge officials were asked point-blank if they will pull out of this area if the RM council votes against it, and MunckhofSwain said there is no easy answer to that, as they have to see what the costs are and what the bylaws of the RM say, if they will be able to go ahead with the
project or not.
A resident commented that the provincial government may force them to accept this project whether the RM wants it or not, and MunckhofSwain answered, “That’s not what we’re saying. It’s a process and we have to go through it.”
“Would you consider just going away?” asked Brady.
“Our commitment is to work with this project. We think this is a good project for the RM. There’s a lot of people in the room who share the same view as you, but there are a lot of people not in this room who don’t share that view,” said Munckhof-Swain. “It’s up to the council how this is going to proceed. We’re not going away.”
Results for city election are released
The official results for the 2024 Weyburn municipal election on Nov. 13 were confirmed by returning officer Tina Clay. Jeff Richards was elected as mayor of Weyburn, and the six city councillor positions will be filled by Todd Bedore, John Corrigan, Larry Heggs, Ryan Janke, Laura Morrissette and Kellie Sidloski.
A total of 2,655 ballots were cast in the election, reflecting participating in the advance polls, special polls, the regular poll and mail-in ballots. The strong turnout underscores Weyburn’s commitment to an engaged and vibrant democratic process. For the Holy Family school division, Bruno Tuchscherer and Jerome Sidloski were acclaimed as trustees, while for the Southeast Cornerstone School Division, Megan Schick and Norma HewittLendrum were also acclaimed.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
&
weyburn
editorial opinion review
Now the real work begins for governments
Barring the fall of the Liberal-NDP federal government, election season is over, for now, and the real work must now begin for both the provincial and municipal governments in Saskatchewan.
Provincially, the Scott Moe government was re-elected to a majority government, but they are now facing a stronger NDP opposition in the Legislature.
Moe admitted that voters have indicated by this result that they want changes made to how the government runs things across the province, and they now have the next four years to show residents that they are going to take this message seriously.
The issues that many people were mentioning in the campaigns included health care, infrastructure, education and tax levels. How will the government respond to the perennial problems of education funding, and staffing of health care facilities, just as two of the issues many people have been raising?
If the Sask Party fails to make any serious attempts to address these concerns, the NDP will be sure to raise their voices and let people know about the shortfalls, as they have a stronger shadow cabinet than they’ve had for several years.
The appetite for change was reflected somewhat in some of the municipal election results, including a new mayor for Weyburn in Jeff Richards, and a new reeve for the RM of Weyburn in Bud Grohn.
For the RM, the municipality hosted a meeting in regard to the wind turbine proposal from Enbridge the day after the election, and a lot of questions and concerns were raised there.
Enbridge has promised to modify their proposal, with the details to come out at a town hall set for Dec. 11 at McKenna Hall.
For the City of Weyburn, the new councillors and mayor and veteran council members will be thrown right into the deep end, as the first thing they are going to tackle is the 2025 budget, including what to do with the indoor swimming pool at the Weyburn Leisure Centre.
The budget by itself is a tough task to deal with, and this work will begin with some rookies around the council table who will need to be brought up to speed on what the city is dealing with for the next year.
The issues with the pool will certainly impact that process, as any solution is going to cost money, possibly a very significant amount, depending on what the recommendations will be for the repair or replacement of the pool.
Residents will need to have some patience as they await the outcome of this work, and it remains to be seen what the financial challenges will be as they wrestle with this important document for the city. — Greg Nikkel
MEET THE STAFF
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As we headed into the weekend, a Big Switch upstairs was turned on, and suddenly we witnessed the arrival of wintery weather.
As I write this on Tuesday morning, yet more wintery weather is here, causing all sorts of difficulties, accidents and general mayhem on the streets and highways of the province.
We knew it was coming, since we do live in Canada after all. We were spoiled by some very nice mild weather all the way into midNovember, but Old Man Winter got impatient and said, ‘Enough of this nonsense, let’s get down to the real weather ...’
I watched these huge flakes of snow fall on Saturday morning as I ate breakfast, and then drove south on slushy highways to Midale for the annual Santa Parade.
Those who are superstitious may feel they could blame the parade for the onset of this weather, but really the snow would have come anyway, with or without a parade.
The drive was a little scary at first, as slushy snow can be extremely slippery, but at a reduced speed and four-wheel drive engaged, I was able to make it down to about Ralph, and the roads were suddenly just wet
By Greg Nikkel
and not really very slushy at all.
It was only later that I heard there had been an accident on that stretch of highway only a few kilometres from Weyburn. I could certainly see exactly how such an accident could occur, as the roads were really not in very good condition.
As area motorists will know, this is only the start of our winter. There will be many, many more days, nights and snowfall warning between now and next spring when all of this white stuff will melt away again.
Clearly we need to acclimatize to the weather and get used to driving with caution again, but in the meantime, there are bound to be slips through intersections and on icy streets and highways after being spoiled by the nice fall weather for so long.
There is no magic to it, no real hints or tips that would make much of a difference, other than slowing down and being cautious if you do have to drive on a highway or street.
For those able, changing to snow tires would also be a good idea, or at the very least, take extra time and don’t be in such a hurry.
A WRITER’S ODYSSEY
By Sabrina Kraft Email: skraft@glaciermedia.ca
Weyburn voted in a new mayor for the city, and a new reeve for the RM, during the municipal election on November 13.
Mayor-elect Jeff Richards will lead a city council that consist of two new faces (Kellie Sidloski and Todd Bedore), in addition to the four incumbents. The first priority for the new council will be to finalize the budget for 2025, and to work together to strengthen the community and promote economic growth.
A total of 2,693 ballots were cast in this election, so with 8,264 eligible voters, there was a 32.6 per cent voter turnout.That number seems low, especially after reports of many people standing in line throughout the day.
Low voter turnout in municipal elections is not unique to Saskatchewan. However there seems to be a disconnect with the number of people who are eligible to vote and just don’t. The question is how to engage these voters?
One of the factors in less engagement could be voter fatigue, as there were only a few weeks separating the provincial and municipal elections. As both currently are set
in the fall every four years, both SUMA and SARM are pushing the government to have more separation between the election periods, with municipal elections occurring in the following spring.
There is also an increase number of candidates to select from, and to vote into office for a municipal election, which means voters have to do more work to research and understand candidates’ views and policies. It was very difficult to help my 19-year-old son, a new voter, understand how to use a municipal ballot.
Voter turnout can play a significant role in election results. We are missing the voice of roughly 70 per cent of eligible voters in the city. Perhaps we have less voters who feel engaged in politics.
The issues behind voter apathy is something that should be addressed at every level, with newly elected provincial and municipals officials doing their part to make stronger connections with the many different sectors and groups in their community.
6 sports
WCS Eagles senior girls compete in 5A provincials
The Weyburn Comp Eagles senior girls team competed as the host team in the SHSAA 5A Girls Provincial Volleyball Championships on Friday and Saturday.
The girls first faced the Swift Current Ardens on Friday afternoon, and the Ardens went on to be the eventual provincial champions, beating out Balgonie in the gold medal finals.
The Eagles lost by scores of 25-19 and 25-10, then faced Regina Campbell, losting by scores of
25-17 and 25-21. On Saturday, Weyburn played Saskatoon St. Joseph and lost by scores of 25-15 and 25-11, and finally played Prince Albert Carlton, losing by scores of 25-11 and 25-21.
In the finals, Swift Current beat Balgonie by scores of 25-15 and 2523 to take the provincial championship.
Altogether there were 10 teams on hand for the two-day tournament, including 175 players and coaches.
Former coach encourages volleyball players in address
By Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
A former Weyburn Comp teacher and coach, Jacquie Williams, gave words of encouragement to the 10 teams gathered for the 5A Girls Provincial Volleyball Championships in Weyburn, at the opening ceremonies held on Friday morning in the Eagle gym.
There were also representatives of the school and Southeast Cornerstone board, and MLA Mike Weger and newly-elected Mayor Jeff Richards brought greetings to the 175 athletes and coaches, including the host Comp Eagles senior girls team.
Williams, who retired from teaching in 2018, told the girls that 45 years ago she was in the same position they were, attending the 5A Girls Volleyball provincials, playing for Carlton Comprehensive then.
“We are women in sport, we are female athletes,” said Williams. “It’s hard being a female athlete. When I graduated from high school, I was told ‘don’t let sport define you – use your brain, get a job, get married, have kids’.”
She told the players they have a place to play sports after high school, and pointed to WNBA star Caitlyn Clark as an example – but also showed how challenging it is for her. She noted Clark earns a salary of $78,000, but pointed out that in the NBA, even new players there earn an average of $1.1 million.
“I certainly don’t want to insult any men, or your dads, brothers, uncles. I must say with utmost confidence that everything I’ve ever succeeded at as a female athlete was cause of the challenges I faced. It’s a skill that each and every one of you earns,” said Williams.
“You already faced challenges by being here. For some of you, the challenge was making this team, for others it was
Jacquie Williams
getting through a long season,” she said. “These challenges are no different than what each of you are going to face in your life, the challenges of getting your first job, getting a higher-paying job, getting your first apartment.”
Williams said the first thing to do in facing a challenge is make a plan of how to meet the challenge, then it’s how to execute that plan.
“It’s hard work, but as you do the hard work, you do so with positivity and enthusiasm. Female athletes tend to bring people up around them as they go through their plan,” she said, adding that as “true female athletes” they will do it with grace and dignity.
“Do you know how you’re going to feel when you meet those challenges?
You’ll feel fantastic, it’s the greatest feeling you’ll ever have,” said Williams. “Do you know how you’ll feel if you don’t succeed? In the moment, you’ll look around at your teammates, at your family, and you’re going to feel you did your absolute best.”
She added their team may not win because the other team was just a little bit better than they were on that day – “and that’s okay.”
“I’ve told this to every team I’ve ever coached, and to my own four kids, as they were going through challenges. After the game is over and the challenge is past, the sun will go down and will rise again the next day, and you will still be here,” said Williams, wishing all of the players good luck in the tournament.
Team reps take oath of sportsmanship
WCS Eagles player Katherine Balog, with the mike, had team representatives introduce themselves before they all took an oath of sportsmanship, during the opening ceremonies for the 5A Girls Provincial Volleyball Championships on Friday morning. There were 10 teams represented for the two-day tournament.
beating Balgonie in the gold medal game.
Hitting the ball past the blockers
Weyburn Comp Eagles player Whitney Lanz-McIntyre jumped up to hit the ball over the waiting hands of blockers from the Swift Current Ardens, in their first game at the 5A provincials on Friday in the Cugnet Centre. The Eagles lost 25-19 and 25-10 to the Ardens, who went on to win the overall provincial championship.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Tipping the ball over the net WCS Eagles player Zoe Kerr reached up to tip the ball over the net, during Weyburn’s first game at the provincials against Swift Current in the Cugnet Centre. The Ardens went on to win the provincial championship,
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
sports
Weyburn Red Wings point streak ended by Battlefords North Stars
The Weyburn Red Wings had their point streak of games ended at 14, after dropping back-toback games to the Battlefords North Stars over the weekend. The Red Wings were edged out 4-3 in both games, on Friday and Saturday at Crescent Point Place.
On Saturday night, the two teams were tied at 2-2 after the first period, and after no scoring in the second period, the North Stars scored twice and Weyburn once.
After the Battlefords scored twice, including one on the power play, the Red Wings responded with two power play goals.
Cyprus Smith-Davis scored, with assists by
Jerome Maharaj and Max Chakrabarti, then Chakrabarti scored, assisted by Maharaj and Jaxson Ruthven. The final goal for Weyburn was by Ethan Dekay, assisted by Chakrabarti and Ruthven, and also came on the power play.
Dazza Mitchell was the goaltender, and stopped 30 out of 34 shots on net. He was pulled briefly for an extra attacker late in the game.
In Friday night’s game, each team scored once in the first period, with Weyburn’s goal coming from Liam Fitzgerald, unassisted.
The North Stars scored twice in the second period, along with Weyburn’s Chad Lebeau,
Gold Wings win pair of exhibition games
The Weyburn U18 Gold Wings won both exhibition games they hosted over the weekend with Dakota College from Bottineau, N.D.
The Gold Wings won by scores of 7-1 and 7-2, with a couple of players recording hattricks along the way.
On Saturday, it was Hallie Parada with the hattrick, including scoring the first goal of the game in the first period, assisted by Julia Durr.
Durr then scored, assisted by Parada and Peyton Halayka, and Nola Exner scored from Kaitlyn Mah and Kiah Shields.
There was no scoring in the second period, and Parada scored six minutes into the third period, assisted by Durr and Scarlett Lindsay.
Liv Peck got on the scoreboard, assisted by Makenna Sumners and Shields, then Parada finished her hattrick, assisted by Halayka and Durr.
Weyburn’s last goal was by Sumners, unassisted, with two minutes left in the game.
Amy Swayze was in net for the game, but there was no record of saves or shots on goal.
For Sunday’s game, it was Julia Durr’s turn for a hattrick, and she scored the first two goals of the game in the first period. She was assisted by Halayka on the first goal, and by Halayka and Lindsay for the second goal.
Ayla Klus got on the scoreboard, assisted by Exner and Jade Olszewski, then Kadence Dansereau scored unassisted. Parada rounded out the scoring in the first period, assisted by Lindsay and Durr. Durr then completed her hattrick early in the second period, assisted by Halayka, and Olszewski scored the last goal from Exner and Klus. Tila Boyd was in goal for this game, and made 24 saves on 26 shots on net.
The Gold Wings will have a bit of a break from league action until the Nov. 30-Dec. 1 weekend, when they will host the Swift Current Wildcats, at 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
assisted by Fitzgerald and Josh Karman.
Each team scored once in the third period, with Weyburn’s goal coming with just under three minutes to go in the game,
from Smith-Davis, assisted by Maharaj. Angelo Zol was in net for the full game other than when he was pulled for an extra attacker, and he stopped 34 of 38 shots
on net. The Red Wings were in Melville on Tuesday night, past press deadlines, and their next game will be a home match against Yorkton on Tuesday, Nov. 26.
They will end November with a home game versus the Humboldt Broncos on Nov. 29, and a road game in Estevan on Nov. 30, for the second game in the Highway 39 Series.
A close call at the net
Watching the puck go in Red Wings player Cyprus Smith-Davis watched as the puck went in behind the Battlefords goalie, in SJHL action on Saturday night at Crescent Point Place. The Wings had their point streak ended, as they took two 4-3 losses to the North Stars on Friday and Saturday.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Red Wings player Lucas Schmid watched as his shot just went wide of the net, during Weyburn’s game versus the Battlefords North Stars on Saturday night at Crescent Point Place.
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Sawyer; brother-in-law Lorne Cook; sister-in-law Bridget (Trevor) Fillion as well as numerous aunts uncles nieces nephews, great nieces and nephews, relatives and friends A Private Family Service will be held at a later date with
In Loving Memory of Yvonne Marie Hall (neé Vigoureux) 1925 2024 Yvonne Marie Hall, aged 99, passed away peacefully on November 10 2024 in Weyburn SK Born on October 18 1925 in Marolles-en-Brie France to Marie Francoise Cotbreil and Paul Alfred Vigoureux Yvonne immigrated to Canada with her parents and younger sister Paulette in 1930 They stayed with her mother ’s sister Philomene Porte and uncle Jean-Claude after arriving in Canada and later moved to a farm northwest of Gladmar SK that her father homesteaded She became a naturalized citizen of Canada on January 27 1938 She attended school at North Gladmar and in November 1943 during World War II driven by a sense of duty and patriotism she enlisted with the Canadian Women’s Army Corps She took her training in Vermillion AB and then on to Prince Albert SK for three months spending the remaining service days in Regina until her discharge in July 1946 as a Sergeant In 1948 Yvonne met her husband Wallace Daniel Hall (born June 7, 1916 to Wallace Edgar Hall and Anna Marie O’Connell) In 1949 they married on her 24th birthday at St Colette Catholic Church The wedding went ahead despite a horrific snowstorm that day that produced snow drifts of four to five feet in parts, blocking roads and highways Yvonne and Wally settled on the Hall family farm 20 miles southeast of Radville in the Neptune area, where they built a life together, raising their three children Yvonne and Wally were also there for their three nieces whose parents had died when the girls were young Yvonne always made delicious meals drawing on her mother s French cooking traditions using fresh vegetables from her garden though despite those
and Wally began spending their winters in Arizona, and in 1982 they became some of the very first snowbirds to settle at the Mesa Regal Resort where they spent quality time with old and new friends alike They shared 43 years of loving marriage before Wally s passing in 1993 And while Yvonne never remarried, she did continue wintering in Mesa for many more years In 2017 Yvonne moved from the farm into her own apartment in Weyburn SK At the age of 93 she impressed her grandchildren when she became the proud owner of an iPad, learning how to email check Facebook and Facetime video-call Later in the spring of 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic she became the anchor of a weekly Facebook Messenger video call that took place every single Sunday for years with the women in her family This new tradition brought her great joy as it allowed her to stay in touch with her daughters granddaughters cousin nieces and daughter-in-law despite their physical distance Yvonne lived independently in her apartment until shortly after her 98th birthday at which time she suffered a fractured hip Post-surgery she transitioned to Hill Top Manor in Weyburn for 24-hour care and quickly made many new friends there, who enriched her life with laughter and companionship Yvonne was often described as sharp as a tack , maintaining her cognitive health to the very end and it is believed that Yvonne s secret to such a long and well-lived life was her daily emphasis on social connection (and perhaps the occasional whiskey glass of wine golf game, and slot machine)! In addition to her husband Wallace Yvonne is preceded in death by her parents Paul and Francoise Vigoureux; her brother Andre Vigoureux; her daughter-in-law Lynne Hall; and her son-in-law Boyd Vilness and niece Catherine DeAtley She is survived by her daughter Diane Doucet (Gerald) of Kingston ON and their three children Genevieve (Johnson) Lorenne (Sam) and Marc-Andre; her daughter Linda Vilness of Prince Albert SK and her three sons Donald (Eileen) Trevor (Crystal) and William; and her son John Hall (Heather) of Radville SK, and his two children, Sarah and Adam Yvonne also leaves behind eight great grandchildren her sister, Paulette Bert, and her nieces Pat Davis (Tom) and Margaret Jones; several other nieces and nephews from the Bert, Hall and Doud families as well as many friends A Catholic Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Roman Catholic Church, Radville, Saskatchewan at a later date and the Interment will take place at Radville Laurier Cemetery Radville, Saskatchewan The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers donations be made in Yvonne s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society at 500-55 Street Clair Avenue West Toronto Ontario M4V 2Y7 or Stars Air Ambulance at 2640 Airport Road Regina Saskatchewan S4W 1A4 Yvonne
of
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9 community lifestyles &
Centenarian has party with family Weyburn’s newest centenarian, Susan Mailhiot (front, centre) gathered with several family members for her 100th birthday party on Nov. 10 at the Wheatland Sr. Centre. From left to right are Byron Shangraw, Sig Shangraw (great great grandson), Denni Shangraw (great granddaughter), Cory Abel (grandson), Darren Abel (grandson), Piper Abel (great granddaughter), Raquel Shangraw (great great granddaughter), Doug Abel (son), Gabriella Shangraw (great great granddaughter),Tatum Tily (great granddaughter), and Dallas Tily.
Envision Counselling launches gift card drive
Envision Counselling and Support Centre is launching its annual Gift Card Drive, with their kickoff sponsor, Purechem Services.
Giving Tuesday is just around the corner. “Giving Tuesday is an International day of giving,” said Envision Counselling’s executive director, Lynda Rideout. “This is a day to celebrate the communities in which we live by coming together and encouraging charitable giving.” Rideout shared, “At Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc., we recognize that many of our clients are currently struggling to make ends meet within our communities. The annual Gift Card Campaign is an incredible way to offer a helping hand.”
She added, “We are so fortunate to have our Gift Card Drive kicked off and sponsored by the generous team at PureChem Services. Their support is paving
the way for this year’s campaign, and with their help, we are hopeful to bring much-needed relief to those currently living in abusive situations, those who have recently left, and those working toward a healthier future for themselves and their families.”
The overall goal of Envision’s campaign is to offer support and hope during the holidays to the individuals and families we serve and have identified as being unable to meet their basic needs. Whether it be food, warm clothes, gifts for the children, or even gas for the car, gift cards help to fill the gaps that these families may experience during this colder holiday season.
Envision also uses gift cards from various businesses to disburse to people who need emergency help, based on their situation. Clients may be going without items such as baby supplies or clothing if they flee
a relationship without time to properly pack up. They might need gas cards, specifically to attend counselling sessions, when they are isolated in a rural location. And particularly this year, they may be unable to purchase gifts for the holidays.
“Imagine if every person who was able, donated just one gift card, whether it be gas or grocery,” said Rideout. “We would be able to help an incredibly wide number of individuals and families throughout the holiday season, as well as ongoing throughout the year.”
By donating gift cards, Envision is able to provide support to as many clients in need as possible. This campaign gives individuals more choices and an added sense of empowerment, or autonomy, which is really important to the agency. The preferred stores are those with gas or grocery options, such as Walmart, Co-op, No Frills or Wholesale Club,
for their bags.
Dollarama or Esso.
Director of Operations, Laura Melle added, “When we are sitting with someone in our office who has just left an abusive relationship with nothing but the clothes they are wearing, it is incredibly powerful to be able to hand them a gift card to purchase the items they need for themselves and their children. Things like clothing, toiletries, food, diapers, etc. sometimes even gas cards to have the means to travel to where their supports are, where they can feel safe and supported.”
She also mentioned, “Whatever their situation or unique needs may be, being able to have these gift cards available to those we support is extremely impactful. To see their face lift with a little hope. Together, this is what our community provides.”
There are three ways to participate in the Gift Card Drive: Gift cards can be dropped off at Envision Counselling offices in Weyburn, Estevan or Carlyle. Call the location ahead to make arrangements.
• Put your donation of gift cards in the mail to: Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc., Box 511, Estevan, SK, S4A 2A5.
• Make a monetary donation at www.envisioncounsellingcentre.com. Choose Gift Card on the menu option, and Envision will purchase cards to distribute during the holidays.
All donations over $25 are able to receive a charitable receipt. “We are looking forward to another successful Gift Card Campaign with the incredible support of generous and dedicated individuals within our communities,” Rideout said. “We truly couldn’t do it without you and the support of our sponsors.”
Dance practitioner to conduct South Asian dance workshop
Internationally acclaimed dance practitioner Vrunda Upadhyay, a celebrated Bharatanatyam (or Indian classical dance) expert, is set to lead a South Asian dance workshop, an event not to be missed by art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
With over 20 years of teaching and performing experience, Upadhyay will bring her expertise to the workshop, which will delve into the beauty of South Asian dance traditions, particularly focusing on Bharatanatyam techniques, cultural storytelling, and the nuances of classical expressions.
The event will be held on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23 at the Weyburn Public Library.
The times for the workshop are on Friday from
5-6:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. This workshop offers participants a unique chance to learn directly from one of the foremost figures in the field, known for her deep knowledge and dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Indian classical dance.
Whether you are an aspiring dancer or an admirer of cultural arts, this event promises to be a captivating journey into the rhythms and expressions of South Asia.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Upadhyay’s artistry and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Indian classical dance. For further details and registration, email to mdminstitute20@ gmail.com or WhatsApp 9055986411.
(ESTEVAN) is now hiring a WAREHOUSEMAN AND A DELIVERY DRIVER Oilfield experience and tickets are an asset. Class 5 DL and clean abstract, pre-employment drug & alcohol screening is required. Excellent wages and benefits. Email resume to: todd.senft@dorfketal.com NOTICE
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANG WEST CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT AREA NO 175
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE LANG WEST CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT AREA WILL BE HELD IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICE IN YELLOW GRASS ON FRIDAY THE 6TH DAY OF DECEMBER, 2024 AT 10:30 IN THE MORNING
Shelly Verbeurgt SECRETARY-TREASURER
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SOURIS CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT AREA NO 1
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SOURIS CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT AREA WILL BE HELD IN THE MUNICIPAL OFFICE IN YELLOW GRASS ON THURSDAY THE 5th DAY OF DECEMBER, 2024 AT 1:00 IN THE AFTERNOON
Shelly Verbeurgt SECRETARY-TREASURER
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Braving the snow at the Santa parade
These representatives from Mainprize Regional Park rode on the float at Midale’s Santa Parade on Saturday, in spite of wet, slushy snow falling. The conditions were so slushy, most of the candies were brought inside to the 39ers Clubhouse, where kids could meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and get lots of candies
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca
Photo – Greg Nikkel, SaskToday.ca