The Weyburn Review
Sask. government announces record-setting
Communities throughout Saskatchewan will receive record-setting Municipal Revenue Sharing (MRS) in the upcoming 202526 Provincial Budget with $361.8 million, an increase of $21.5 million or 6.3 per cent from last year.
“Our government continues to deliver reliable, predictable municipal revenue sharing to our communities and is the envy of other municipal governments throughout Canada,” Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. “More than $4.6 billion in MRS funding has been delivered through this program since 2007-08, based on the strength and growth of Saskatchewan’s economy.”
Bryson and Ethan quietly read, during a Book Club for Grade 2/3 students at Assiniboia Park Elementary on March 12.
The Weyburn Red Wings will have home ice advantage in the best-ofseven series against the Battleford Stars, as they prepare for round one of the SJHL playoffs.
Season ticket holders have until today, March 20 at 5 p.m. to secure their seats for playoffs.
Game one and two will both be held at Crescent Point Place, on Friday, March 21 and Saturday, March 22, puck dropping at 7 p.m. The series moves to Battleford for game three and game four, on Tuesday, March 25 and Wednesday, March 26.
See page 6
PRAIRIE SKY CO-OP SETS AGM DATE
The annual general meeting for Prairie Sky Co-op is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15 at the Legion, at 7 p.m. Prairie Sky Co-op Association Ltd. has three positions up for election on their board. All three positions are three-year terms. Directors Jim Linnell, Nick Coroluick and Brent Hansen are running for re-election.
MRS provides predictable, unconditional funding to Saskatchewan cities, towns, villages and rural municipalities based on three-quarters of one point of provincial sales tax revenue from two years prior. The predictable nature of the funding ensures that communities are able to make budget plans knowing what their annual allocation will be, providing stability for strategic investments at the municipal level.
The Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to affordability to all residents, agricultural land owners, businesses and corporations operating in the province will
include a reduction in Education Property Tax mill rates in the 2025-26 Budget.
“In this revaluation year, all property tax classes will see reductions in Education Property Tax mill rates, which will result in property tax savings of more than $100 million annually,” Schmalz said. “In this era of uncertainty, the Government of Saskatchewan is committed to examining the tax tools available to us, to provide relief to Saskatchewan property owners facing rising costs.”
MRS amounts by community including historical allocations will be available on saskatchewan.ca on budget day, March 19, 2025.
Qualifications of a Board Member include: must be a member for at least one year prior to the annual meeting, must be a good supporter of the Coop, and should be prepared to attend occasional training sessions and 12 regular meetings each year. Completed nomination forms can be submitted by April 1 to the Prairie Sky Co-op Administration Office. For more information, or to submit digitally, email directors@prairiesky.crs.
- Photo by Sabrina Kraft
Safety practices is key focus during Ag Safety Week
To reinforce its commitment to farm safety, the Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March 16 - 22, 2025, as Agricultural Safety Week, with a focus on protecting agricultural workers and strengthening safety practices across the province.
This year’s Agricultural Safety Week focuses on the key themes of health hazards on the farm, emergency preparedness, grain safety, mental health, road and rail safety and women in agriculture. These themes stress the importance of proactive safety measures, proper training,
safety resources and an inclusive workplace culture that recognizes the critical role women play in advancing farm safety.
Saskatchewan residents can show their support for farm safety by wearing an AgSafe ribbon, available at the ministry’s regional offices. A digital version can also be downloaded from CASA’s website.
For more information on farm safety resources, including the Farm Safety Guide, visit: saskatchewan.ca/farmsafety. To learn more about Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, visit: www.casa-asca.ca.
MP sees an era of uncertainty
“These are days of confusion and concern for those working in the agricultural industry.”
Those are the sentiments of Robert Kitchen, who has been representing the Souris-Moose Mountain riding as a member of Parliament (MP) since 2015. The riding he serves is home to many farmers and ranchers, as well as workers in the natural resources sector.
In those years as an MP, Kitchen has been a member of the opposition Conservative Party of Canada. He has been a part of various committees, including
Veteran Affairs, Health and Government Operations & Estimates (OGGO). Prior to entering the political realm, he was a chiropractor in Estevan.
He has interacted deeply with those in agriculture and natural resources. In fact, Kitchen likes to use ‘chiropractic language’ in describing these fields.
“Agriculture is the backbone, keeping communities together and stable; whereas those in the natural resources are the arms and legs, much more visible than the farmers and ranchers who spend so much time in the field. Both are integral to a community’s well-being.”
But these days are in-
creasingly hard to those whose livelihood comes from agriculture. With all the talk of tariffs – the instituting of them and the subsequent withdrawal of them – farmers are increasingly uncertain of what the future holds. According to Kitchen, the confusion and concern stems from the immaturity of the leaders of the United States and Canada. Kitchen cites an example. A 25 per cent tariff has been slapped onto canola. Farmers are wondering, “Will I have a market if I go ahead and plant canola? Do I have to look for various avenues in selling my crop?” For the full story read it on SaskToday.ca
A crowded fan section for the Estevan Bruins receiveD suckers and other candy from Howie, the Weyburn Red Wings mascot, during a home game at Crescent Point Place on March 14.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Paul Kimball, Freelance Reporter
Community News
Police remind residents to stop for school buses
The Weyburn Police Service responded to 73 calls for service for the week of March 9 - March 17, 2025.
Notable incidents during the week include: Traffic Offence: Over the week, the police received a few complaints of drivers failing to stop for the stop sign arm on the school bus. On two of these occasions, there was a close call with a vehicle and children crossing the street.. Vehicles travelling in both directions MUST stop when the stop arm is out and flashing lights on the bus are activated. The fine for not stopping is $280.00, and multiple drivers were charged for this traffic offence.
Well Being/ Mental Health calls: In the past week, the police responded to eight of these type of occurrences. Police did transport one person to the hospital for further mental health care.
Domestic disturbances: The police responded to numerous domestic disturbances. All were mediated, except one. In that instance, an individual was arrested for breach of the peace and held in custody until matters calmed down.
A group of students from St. Michael School work together to form a car, using their bodies to mimic the object, during a warm-up for their musical performance practice. Students have just started to attend practices for the musical, to be staged in April.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Theft Under: On March 14, the police received a complaint of a gas drive off from a local business. The investigation is ongoing.
*Anyone with information regarding any 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).
Saskatchewan Libraries celebrating Earth Day, one tree at a time
By Kaitlynn Nordal SaskToday.ca
Those who are interested can celebrate with a free tree from their local library this Earth Day through Neighbourhood Forest – a non-profit, social venture dedicated to giving children a tree to plant for free every spring.
“We love trees. We love planting them and watching them grow. We want to give every child this joy,” said Vikas Narula, cofounder of Neighbourhood Forest
The program helps beautify neighbourhoods, remove carbon from the atmosphere, and instill a sense of magic, wonder, and love for the planet for those who participate.
Since 2010, Neighbourhood Forest has mobilized over 3,500 schools, libraries and youth groups, engaged over 500,000 vol-
unteers, and given over 197,000 children internationally the opportunity to plant trees.
“We are on track to give over 100,000 kids their very own tree this Earth Day,” said Narula. “Up from 67,000 last year.”
Neighbourhood Forest is growing at a rapid rate and is aiming to reach one million children in the next few years.
“Our dream is to reach every child in North America and eventually the world,” said Narula.
Neighbourhood Forest is one of the largest and fastest growing treeplanting initiatives in North America that is free and volunteer-driven, co-ordinated on an annual basis every spring, focused on urban and residential beautification, and involves hundreds of thousands of children and
families.
Those in the Southeast Regional Library first heard about Neighbourhood Forest in 2024 and worked with it that year.
“We saw that another regional library in the province was taking part, so we reached out to the organization,” said Morgan Kelly, the community services manager for Southeast Regional Library.
They asked for more information about how to participate and then made every branch a place to sign up for the program.
“The program took off,” said Kelly.
“We have tried to reach out with partnerships the last couple of years, but we have never done a giveaway like this,” said Kelly.
“It’s not something you think of when you think of the library,” she continued. “You don’t think of free
trees. So, it was a good way to get people who hadn’t even been to the library interested. Then we were able to offer more resources or programs and interest them now that we have them.”
In 2024, they distributed almost 1,000 trees.
“We were surprised with how well it went. That was a big thing for us. We have a lot of different resources and of course, we are always trying to get more people to use their libraries and trees seem to be a big draw. We couldn’t believe the take-up. It’s a great idea. For some reason, it clicked with people,” said Kelly.
Since it is not over for 2025, Kelly is unsure how many they have done.
“I don’t think we are there yet but I know some of the bigger branches will have 30 people signed up,”
said Kelly. “Some of our smaller ones will have anywhere from 10 to 20 signed up. It depends on the community.”
Kelly thinks this is a great addition to their Earth Day programming.
“Our branches do a bit of programming around Earth Day but this is an opportunity to provide something we would not normally be able to make happen,” said Kelly. “We are lucky to work with Neighbourhood Forest because there are a lot of donors and fundraisers that make this possible for all of North America.”
“We are trying to work on programs that get people thinking outside the four walls of the library. This is an interesting program for us; this gets people thinking about the ways the library supports their community beyond
books,” continued Kelly. Neighborhood Forest aims to provide native and/ or fruit-bearing trees in all the regions they serve.
“We mix up the species each year on a state-bystate, province-by-province basis. We will know the exact species for Saskatchewan in early April,” said Narula.
Parents had until March 15 to order a free tree. Parents and guardians can sign up their child at the local library or online.
Parents and guardians can pick up their trees from the library right around Earth Day on April 22. Parents and guardians should check updates from the library via email or social media to find out exact pick-up dates and times. If trees are not claimed by the end of April, they will be given to others on a firstcome, first-serve basis.
Agriculture, Oil & Business
The Grade 2/3 students were joined by Grade 5 students,
Saskatchewan to support municipalities in addressing derelict buildings
The Government of Saskatchewan is developing a pilot framework that would allow participating municipalities to work with volunteer fire departments to safely dispose of problem, municipal-owned structures for fire fighter training exercises.
“We are making it easier for municipalities to tackle long-standing concerns about derelict buildings, while taking into account the
safety of residents and consideration of environmental concerns,” Environment Minister Travis Keisig said. “This pilot project will be a great example of collaboration that benefits communities across the province.”
Derelict buildings pose both public safety and economic issues for municipalities, hindering redevelopment and posing safety hazards.
“Municipalities are best placed to make decisions that best serve the long-term needs of their communities,” Government Relations Minister Eric Schmalz said. “We will continue to work with our stakeholders to ensure that the provincial govern-
ment is able to support costeffective, locally-made and managed decisions.”
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) supports the changes, recognizing the potential benefits for rural municipalities. “SARM is pleased that the provincial government is initiating a pilot program to assist rural municipalities with the removal and remediation of derelict buildings they have been forced to assume title on,” said SARM President Bill Huber.
Municipalities have raised concerns about the financial burdens and safety risks of managing these structures.
“As a municipality that absorbed a village in 2017, we have experienced firsthand the financial burden accompanying the demolition of derelict buildings,” Reeve of Kellross Rural Municipality No. 247 Thad Trefiak said. “This program will help us with the ongoing challenges related to aging infrastructure.” It is anticipated that details of the pilot framework will be available to municipalities in summer 2025.
During the spring legislative session, the Government of Saskatchewan will address any regulatory or legislative changes required to support this pilot framework.
March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month
The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed March as Pharmacy Appreciation Month to celebrate the many pharmacists across the province.
The province has collaborated with pharmacists on initiatives in recent years to improve patient care in the province, including the
expansion of pharmacists’ ability to prescribe for certain conditions.
Regulated pharmacy technicians and pharmacy assistants support pharmacists by performing a variety of technical and dispensary functions, which allow pharmacists to focus on working to their highest
scope of practice. Expanding pharmacists’ scope of practice optimizes their skills, builds capacity within the health care system and brings care closer to home, allowing patients to have greater access to health services.
There are more than 2,200 practising pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in community pharmacies, hospitals and clinics across Sask.
Ayza, Maleah, Maddie and Stella share their favourite parts of the story, as Abby reads to them during a Book Club held at Assiniboia Park Elementary School.
who faciliated the book club.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Editorial & Opinion
OPINION: CARNEY’S VICTORY WILL AT LEAST ADD ELECTION INTRIGUE
David Willberg/SaskToday.ca
Nobody should be surprised that the federal Liberal Party selected Mark Carney as the party’s next leader and, in the process, Canada’s next prime minister.
It was clear in recent weeks that, barring something completely unforeseen, Carney was going to win the race. It was just a matter of the margin of victory. With 86 per cent of the vote against three other candidates, it was a landslide.
And his win changes the complexion of the next election.
Let’s be clear: Mark Carney is not Justin Trudeau. He’s a much stronger leader and a brighter individual. It seems he wants to take the party back toward the political centre, where the Liberals have typically governed. He might not be as charismatic or as engaging as Trudeau, but Canadians have clearly had enough of Trudeau’s bumbling.
His commitment to ditch the capital gains tax changes and his pledge to eliminate the consumer carbon tax on families, farmers and small- and medium-sized businesses flies in the face of Trudeau’s stubbornness to keep the punitive measure.
You have to wonder what was going through Trudeau’s mind when Carney publicly took aim at his policies early in Carney’s victory speech.
The expectation is that Carney will call a snap election within days of being sworn in as prime minister. It’s a tricky strategy. It allows him to strike while riding the wave of momentum from such a convincing election victory, but it doesn’t give him much time to build his profile with Canadians.
As an economist, Carney was as good as anyone in the world. His stewardship of the Bank of Canada, particularly during the Great Recession in 2008 and 2009, allowed him to take on the head job at the Bank of England, a highly sought-after role. But there’s a difference between being a great economist and a great head of state. His political experience is lacking. If he calls a snap election, he won’t have much time to prove to Canadians that he’s the guy to guide our country.
If he does call an election, it also means Parliament won’t be sitting at a time of great economic uncertainty due to the chaos brought about by U.S. President Donald Trump and his economic policies, tariff threats, and repeated insane calls for Canada to be the 51st U.S. state.
Carney’s win will also force a change in approach from Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre.
Since becoming leader, Poilievre has been able to target an increasingly unpopular prime minister in Trudeau. He had carte blanche to say almost anything he wanted. People might not be as supportive of Poilievre’s barbs when it comes to Carney.
Under normal circumstances, Poilievre would be able to hammer the Liberals for being a tired, 9 1/2-year-old government. They might have a new leader, but the caucus is the same.
With Trump’s leadership of the U.S. early in his term, Poilievre isn’t just up against Carney and a Liberal government past its best-before date. Poilievre and Carney also have to campaign against Trump and his policies. In the case of Poilievre and the Tories, they have to distance themselves from the ardent Trump supporters within the
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The Weyburn Review
party. They have a lot more to lose than gain with Trump’s backers in their ranks, thanks to the growing disdain that most Canadians now have for the U.S. president and his brand of political chaos.
Poilievre should be able to win the next election, but it’s not the slam dunk that it seemed to be three months ago. The Liberals under Trudeau were going to be dusted off quickly in the next election. Canadians in the large
urban markets finally realized what those of us in rural ridings have known almost from the outset: Trudeau wasn’t cut out for the job, and he never was going to be good enough to be our PM.
Now it’s Poilievre vs. Carney in the party leader showdown.
This next election, whenever it is called, just became a lot more interesting.
Enbridge responds to letter that raised ‘questions about wind project’
To the Editor,
This is a response to a letter to the editor that appeared online at SaskToday on Feb. 27 under the headline “Questions remain about Enbridge wind project in Weyburn.”
It’s a privilege for Enbridge to be developing the Seven Stars Energy Project in the Weyburn area of southern Saskatchewan, where we have deep roots as a responsible operator of energy infrastructure going back 75 years. We look forward to becoming great neighbours to the community, like we are to so many across North America.
The letter in question from Faith McDonald makes claims pertaining to impacts to the environment, wildlife and to people that aren’t supported by facts and that in certain cases are refuted by scientific studies.
We will seek to minimize potential impacts to the environment through every stage of the project. New wind projects undergo rigorous environmental studies before they can proceed. Data from these studies will
be used to assess potential impacts and inform detailed mitigation plans, which will be submitted to various environmental agencies for review.
We encourage all your readers to go to Enbridge.com/sevenstars to learn more about the project, and we’re happy to respond to calls and emails about our project with factual, helpful information. Our team can be reached at power.operations@enbridge.com We are also often in the community, so we’re happy to sit down and discuss the project.
The noted letter also distracts from the advantages the project offers and from the economic benefits it will provide. Construction and operation of the proposed 200-megawatt project will create sustained economic benefits for more than 30 years within the RM of Weyburn, the RM of Griffin and the City of Weyburn. The project will create employment – more than 200 jobs at peak construction and approximately four to eight full and part-time jobs during its operating life.
There will be contracting and business opportunities, local road improvements, and estimated tax income as well as provincial education tax revenue estimated at $25 million to $30 million ($800,000 annually). This is on top of community-driven programs and initiatives Enbridge will support – as any good neighbour would. These are dollars that go towards creating a more vibrant and prosperous community.
We look forward to continuing to work with the community, government representatives and with municipal staff as we move forward with a project destined to be an important part of the energy supply mix in Saskatchewan for many years to come.
As our engagement with the community continues, we appreciate the significant support we’re receiving and the valuable conversations we’re having.
Sincerely,
Alex McNichol, Director, Power Business Development, Enbridge
Sports & Leisure
Red Wings to have home ice advantage vs Battleford Stars
The Weyburn Red Wings will have home ice advantage in the best-ofseven series against the Battleford Stars, as they prepare for round one of the SJHL playoffs.
Season ticket holders have until today, March 20 at 5 p.m. to secure their seats for playoffs.
Game one and two will both be held at Crescent Point Place, on Friday, March 21 and Saturday, March 22, puck dropping at 7 p.m. The series moves to Battleford for game three and game four, on Tuesday, March 25 and Wednesday, March 26. If needed, game five will be back in Weyburn on Saturday, March 29, game six will be in Battleford on Monday, March 31, and game seven will be held in Weyburn on Wednesday, April 2.
Highway 39 Cup
The Red Wings ended their regular season by splitting a home-and-home series against the Estevan Bruins on March 14 and March 15. Based on all the games these two Highway 39 rivals faced during the year, the Red Wings won the most games and
claimed the Highway 39 Cup over the Bruins.
Everyday Hero award
Prestone Patenaude received the Everyday Hero award for the month of February.
Preston was nominated for this award because of his enthusiasm, and eagerness to help outside of the game of hockey. His billet mom, Kaitlyn Mysko said: “Preston is always enthusiastic when it comes to his volunteering especially when it is with future goalies. He has volunteered his time to help out with both his billet brothers hockey teams as well as help with the Grassroots Goalie sessions that happen. He shovels, helps out when people need it and it is always with a smile!”
Preston was also nominated within the organization for the energy he brings to the team: “All year Preston has been a great guy that is always willing to offer help wherever. Whether it’s cleaning the room or volunteering he is always willing to help, he shows up to the rink with a smile, and brings energy everyday to the rink,” said Wings captain Blake Betson
Vilcu Karate Klub to host tournament,
45th anniversary
The Vilcu Karate Klub will host over 160 competitors during the 40th annual International Martial Arts Champship, hosted on Saturday, March 22.
The tournament will take place at the Eagles gymnasium at the Weyburn Comprehensive School.
A special opening ceremonies will be held at 9 a.m., with a welcome greeting offered by Mayor Jeff Richards.
Spectator fee to attend the karate tournament is $10 per person, with ages six and under free to attend. Throughout the day, there will be a can -
teen available, offering burgers, hot dogs, chips, juice, donated baking, and candy bags.
After the tournament is completed, the 45th anniversary of the Vilcu’s Karate Club will be held at Cecilia’s Banquet Hall, from 8 p.m. to midnight.
Vilcu’s Karate Klub was founded in 1980 under Grand Master Harold Vilcu and their current dojos are located in Weyburn and Estevan Saskatchewan. They are members of the SMAA and the WKC. Their students compete across Western Canada and the Northern States.
U18AA Gold Wings off to provincials
The SE Female U18AA Apex Distribution Gold Wings ended the regular season placing second in the south division. Due to the great finish, the girls had a bye in the first round of playoffs.
In the second round of playoffs, the team played Swift Current with each team winning one game in a best of three series. In game three, the Gold Wings captured the series in a thrilling 3-2 double OT win.
The next series saw the
girls come up against the Regina Rebels, who placed first in the south league during the regular season. This was also a best of three series. The Gold Wings took game one 5-4 in Regina with another double OT game winner. Goals were scored by Bostyn Runge, Ella Schenher, Samara Seghers, Hadley Gerle, with the OT winner coming off the stick of Tyra Kmita. Myra Field was in net for the win.
Game two was held in Midale with the girls sweep-
ing the series by a score of 4-2. Goals were scored by Schenher (2), Kaylin Wilhelm and Alex Reid, with Barker in net.
The next series is provincial championships taking place against the Warmen Wildcats, who placed second in the North division regular season but were deemed North Champions in a two game sweep against PA.
Game one is set for Friday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at the Harry O Arena in Midale. Game two will be
held Sunday, March 23 in Warman with game 3 (if necessary) back in Midale at 1:30 on Sunday, March 30. The team has eight seniors who will be graduating this year. The girls are from Grade 10-12 (ages 15-18). This AA team came into existence in 2018 and is based out of Midale. All practices and home games are played there. This is the first time the Gold Wings made it past the Regina Rebels and captured the “South Champs” title and banner.
Members of the SE Female U18AA Apex Distribution Gold Wings are, back row, L-R: Payton Roth, Brooke McKinnon, Elizabeth Gill, Bostyn Runge, Charlotte Kosior, Talyn Johnston, Natalie Molde, Samara Seghers, Araya Lasko, Ella Schenher and Hadley Gerle. Middle row: Reegan Chicoine, Brooke Allan, Alex Reid, Tyra Kmita, Kaylin Wilhelm and Emma Holzer. Front row: Kiera Barker and Myra Field. The team is coached by Rodney Reid. Assistant coaches include Presliegh Runge, Jesse Doud and Nicole Stobart.
Photo – Submitted
Red Wings forward Ashtyn Shields keeps the puck away from several Estevan Bruins defensemen, during the last regular season home game held on March 14.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Inspirations of Dance
Dancers from Marley’s Dance Effex and De Tricky Feet were among many dance groups that performed during the weekend.
Community News
Federal government looks to counteract U.S. and Chinese tariffs
Ryan Young SaskToday.ca
The federal government recently announced financial support for producers to get through the current tariff situation with the United States, and now China.
Farm Credit Canada is providing $1 billion in new lending to alleviate financial challenges.
“We know that agriculture and food producers across Canada are bracing for uncertainty,” said Justine Hendricks, FCC president and CEO, in a news release. “Agribusinesses, farm operations and food processors are key drivers of our economy and FCC is ready to provide meaningful and immediate support to keep the industry moving forward at this critical time.”
Hendricks says the initial focus “is on assisting the industry in addressing cash flow challenges so that businesses can adjust to a new operating environment.”
Existing customers and non-customers need to meet criteria, including “access to an additional credit line up to $500,000 and new term loans” and are advised to
contact their local FCC office to discuss their situations and to see if they qualify. FCC also says existing customers have the option to “defer principal payments for up to 12 months on existing loans.”
Meanwhile, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada announced the interest-free portion of the Advance Payments Program is increasing for this year to $250,000 from $100,000.
The program provides marketing flexibility by allowing the farmer to sell his or her agricultural products based on market conditions rather than the need for cash.
Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lawrence MacAulay says in a news release that raising the interestfree amount will give farmers extra cash flow and savings amid trade uncertainty and different challenges.
The Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) is one of the organizations that administers the Advance Payments Program on behalf of the federal government.
Dave Gallant, the
vice-president of Finance and APP Operations with the CCGA, says they’ve processed just under 2,000 cash advances from farmers to date and will be applying the change moving forward. Gallant says they’ll be looking “at every advance that we’ve processed to determine if the farmers have to do anything. If they have to do something, we’ll contact them directly.”
The cash advance will start being issued on April 1, but farmers can apply now so their application is already in the queue.
The interest-bearing part of the advance is the prime rate minus 0.25 per cent. As an example, Gallant says if a farmer borrowed $500,000 under the program, the first $250,000 is interest-free and the farmer would only have to pay 4.95 per cent interest on the other $250,000.
“Compared to a loan at $500,000 at prime, you’re almost saving $14,000, and at prime plus one, that’s almost $19,000, and of course the more you borrow under those rates, the more you’re going to save,” said Gallant.
SHRA highlight strategies to support Health Care Professionals
The Saskatchewan Health care Recruitment Agency (SHRA) recently released a Health care Practitioner Community Support Tool kit aimed at supporting commun -
ities engaged or interested in local efforts to retain health care practitioners.
“Part of the SHRA’s mandate is to contribute to a positive experience for health practitioners,
NOTICE OF ADVANCE POLL
The Rural Municipality of Weyburn No 67 Municipal Election 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that provision has been made for an advance poll.
Advance Poll will take place on:
Thursday April 3rd, 2025 between the hours of 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Located at the RM Office 1633 1st Avenue NE, Weyburn, Saskatchewan for the election of:
Councillor for Division 1
Dated at 4:00 p.m. this 13th day of March, 2024.
Jenna Smolinski Returning Officer
NOTE: VOTER IDENTIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED IN ORDER TO VOTE
especially those new to our province or country, by working with all stakeholders on settlement and retention strategies,”
SHRA Chief Executive Officer Terri Strunk said.
“During our outreach to communities across Saskatchewan over the last year, we heard so many great examples of what they are doing to assist our health system with re-
NOTICE OF POLL
The Rural Municipality of Weyburn No 67 Municipal Election 2025
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that: A vote will be held for the election of
Councillor for Division 1 for the Rural Municipality of Weyburn No 67
The vote will take place on the 16th day of April 2025 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. at the RM Office - 1633 1st Avenue NE, Weyburn, Saskatchewan
I will declare the result of the voting at the Municipal Office on the 17th day of April 2025 at the hour of 9:00 a.m.
Dated at 4:00 p.m. this 13th day of March, 2024.
Jenna Smolinski Returning Officer
NOTE: VOTER IDENTIFICATION WILL BE REQUIRED IN ORDER TO VOTE
tention and we wanted to find a way to share those ideas with others.”
The toolkit is designed for communities welcoming new health care providers arriving from within the province, the country or internationally. It shares the activities of other Saskatchewan communities who have had success with retention of local practitioners and offers guidance on essential aspects of relocationfrom finding housing and child care to identifying spousal employment opportunities and creating recreation and cultural connections. This comprehensive support can ease the transition and promote long-term retention of these valuable health care professionals.
SHRA is committed to providing support to communities to initiate these activities and will continue engagement efforts with health practitioners
and community leaders, to build on the toolkit, adding new initiatives in the future.
“As health care providers set up practice in Saskatchewan, the SHRA’s toolkit will be a great reference for communities to ensure they feel welcome and experience a smooth and successful transition,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “Building strong relationships with providers and their families can be encouraging when making the choice to put down roots and build a life here. This tool helps to address an important part of our Health Human Resource Action Plan by offering health care stability and improving access for residents.”
For more information and to download a copy of the Health care Practitioner Community Support Toolkit, please visit: saskhealthrecruitment.ca.
Yvonne McNeil and Jessica Jack play along with some familiar music, during a ‘Jam Session with RD Jones’ held at the Weyburn Public Library on March 15. A number of musicians and vocalists attended the jam session, sharing their love of music.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Reiview
Community News
The Young Fellows Club of Weyburn received the March Spirit of Inclusion award, presented by Inclusion
The
have been a huge support to Inclusion Weyburn over the last few years, helping them to purchase specialized equipment for their sensory rooms. These sensory rooms are crucial in running the Inclusive
Above normal runoff expected
The Water Security Agency (WSA) recently released the Spring Runoff Report for 2025.
A normal to above normal runoff is forecast for most of central and southern Saskatchewan due to an above normal snowpack.
Runoff across most of the north and parts of the southeast is expected to be below normal due to dry fall conditions and a below normal snowpack in these areas.
Most major water reservoirs in southern Saskatchewan are at or above normal levels for this time of year and are expected to be near normal levels following the spring runoff.
Snowfall throughout the remainder of the spring, and the melt rate, can significantly impact spring runoff. Long-range forecasts predict normal precipi -
tation and near normal temperatures across Saskatchewan from March to May.
WSA will continue to monitor conditions and report on them as they develop.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local ice and water conditions and take precautions as they can change rapidly during the spring melt, leading to weakening ice and rapidly moving water.
Your neighbour in energy and communit y
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 loc al jobs, support loc al business es, 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 business es, Enbridge is proud to be part of Saskatchewan’s grow th.
Learn more at enbridge.com/s askatchewan.
Weyburn.
Young Fellows
Weyburn summer camps. Photo
Classifieds
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PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS 48 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities Reach over 550,000 readers weekly Call 306649 1405 or visit www swna com for details
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Check out the "Battle of the
Club Visit our website; Draggins com
NOW HIRING: Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy (road) construction camp this upcoming season. Current location is near Saskatoon, SK. Must have valid driver’s license and safe food handling ticket. Experience in camp setting with 20-30 crew, an asset. Send resume with two work references to: Bryden Construction, Box 100, Aroborfield, SK., S0E 0A0 brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844 www.bryden constructionand transport.ca
jjtrucking@sasktel.net Fax: 306-455-2433 ViSit our webSite: www.jjtruckingltd.com
Bryden Construction & Transport Co. requires SHOP LABORERS
Duties involve cleaning the shop and equipment, assisting in the service/ maintenance area, and general laborer duties. Clean driver’s abstract required. Job location is Arborfield, Sask. Room and board provided. Send resume with work references to: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca or fax 306-769-8844
DRAGGINS CAR SHOW
April 18 & 19 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon
Automotive Technicians"! Draggins Rod & Custom Car
Community News
The King Charles III Coronation Medal was presented to southeast individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities, professions, or public service. In the back row, from left, are Ken Turner - Midale; Albert Petrash - Estevan; Peter Piper - Stoughton; Robert Jordens - Weyburn; Robert Rooks - Estevan; Troy LeBlanc - Estevan; Don DechiefEstevan; Ross Apperley - Carnduff; and Harold Whiteoak – Weyburn. In the front row, from left, are Dr. Robert Kitchen MP; Alice Abrahamson - Moosomin; Debbie Hagel - Estevan; Jordan Ethier - Wawota; John Wilson - Carlyle; and Dr. Edward Tsoi - Estevan. Missing from the photo were Patricia Anderson – Carlyle; Pat Jackson – Kipling; William Baryluk – Estevan; and Mona Lynn Stender – Kipling. Photos – Submitted
Jennifer Elias-White, Weyburn: Jennifer’s commitment to her community and to the advancement of Emergency Medical Services in Saskatchewan is exemplary. She has been a paramedic for 25 years and has influenced, and continues to influence, the evolving quality of care provided in the province.
Peter Broccolo, Weyburn: Peter is a retired RCMP officer who served from 1975 to 2010. He is an RCMP Honour Guard member, Safety Presenter, and Tour Guide. Active in his community, he volunteers with the 306 Legion of Oungre, Weyburn Heritage Village, Weyburn Agricultural Society, and Weyburn Minor Hockey. Additionally, he participates in the Crocus 80 Theatre in various roles, including actor, director, and technical crew. He also supports seniors and individuals with disabilities, offering transportation to medical appointments in Regina, Estevan, and Moose Jaw.
Direct to Smelter –PreciousMetals
Roadshowreturns to Weyburn
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Ursa Go ld al so as se ss es an dp urch as es Ba nk No te s( Pa pe rM on ey )f ro ma ll co untr ie s. Th ey have ex te ns iveexp er ie nc e wo rk in gw it he states ,exe cu to rs ,w id ow s an dw id ow ersi na re sp ec tf ul an dc ar in g ma nne r.
