Combines making their first passes through the field, race cars circling the track at Flatlanders Speedway, and a few great "people" stories headline this week's look at the local news.
Check out the most recent wrap-up of local news from around West Central below:
"Always in harvest mode": Crop specialist talks when to break out the combine
Harvest season is approaching in West Central Saskatchewan, but for now, farmers remain in scouting mode — checking crops for maturity and moisture levels. While winter cereals like fall rye and winter wheat are expected to be harvested first, other crops such as lentils, peas, and later-seeded canola are still filling out. Equipment prep is underway as producers wait for the right moment to begin combining in earnest.
GALLERY: August races at Flatlanders Speedway
Flatlanders Speedway hosted a weekend of action-packed racing west of Kindersley, with the Prairie Dirt Racing Association boosting entries in several divisions. Saturday’s feature winners included Leland Gale (Kid Mod), Bobby Fries (Hobbystock), Murray Koethler (Streetstock), and Dilon Smith (Modifieds). DJ Park took the Truckstock race, Jolan Hanna won Mini Sprints, and Jason Hankewich claimed the Legends feature. Sunday results and full race replays are available on the Flatlanders and P.D.R.A. Facebook pages.
Kindersley coach Marley Ervine honored with BFL Women in Coaching award
Marley Ervine, co-coach of the Western Prairie U15 AA hockey team, has earned the BFL Women in Coaching award for her nearly 10 years of work developing young athletes in Saskatchewan. A former university player, Ervine has led the Western Prairie program alongside Amber Grolla, helping prepare players for U18 AAA. While stepping back from head coaching this season, Ervine says the award reflects the efforts of the entire coaching team. Western Prairie Female Hockey praised her passion and leadership, calling her an invaluable part of the program.
Artists gather in Eston for a weekend of creativity and community
Plein Air Saskatchewan is returning for its fourth year, bringing nearly 40 artists to Eston from August 21–24 to paint the prairie landscape. The event, founded by Saskatoon’s Paul Trottier, offers a non-instructional space for artists of all skill levels to connect, create, and showcase their work. After a weekend of painting outdoors, the gathering will wrap up with a public show and sale on Sunday. This year’s host location was selected by local artist Christine Code, as the event continues to move around the province to highlight Saskatchewan’s natural beauty.
Macklin EMS to leap 7,500 feet for sick kids in 'Jump for Charity'
Macklin EMS members Jenn Arlitt and Terri Murrell will be among eight participants skydiving in Moose Jaw on September 6 for Jump for Charity 2025, a fundraiser supporting Teddy Bears Anonymous. The Saskatchewan-based charity donates teddy bears to children in hospitals and ambulances across the province. Each $5 raised funds one bear, with teams from EMS and police services competing to collect the most donations.