Two more names have been added to the Weyburn Walk of Fame, as Jason Bohn and James K. Hill were formally inducted during a special ceremony in front of City Hall Saturday afternoon. Both men, honoured in different fields, spoke passionately about the lasting impact of their hometown on their lives and careers.
Recognized in the Arts & Entertainment category, Jason Bohn's roots in Weyburn run deep. He got his start in the city's band and drama programs and even once wore a cape as “Captain United” for Communithon. Today, Bohn has established himself as a respected First Assistant Director in the film and television industry, with credits on major productions for Netflix, Hallmark, and Lionsgate.
"It's great. It's an honour, privilege," Bohn said after the ceremony. "I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I do and then share it with my hometown."
Despite working on high-profile sets, including the in-production film November 1963 starring John Travolta and Mandy Patinkin, Bohn has remained based in Saskatchewan and is passionate about mentoring emerging filmmakers in the province.
"Weyburn is always home," he added. "Anywhere we went... we always carried that piece of Weyburn with us."
While in town, Bohn planned to reconnect with old friends, check out the local car show, and catch the Saskatchewan Roughriders game. "It’s just nice to be around and take part in that kind of action," he said.
Honoured in the Business & Industry category, James K. Hill has spent more than 35 years in Canada’s foreign service, holding key roles including Ambassador to Costa Rica and Consul General in Atlanta. But throughout his distinguished diplomatic career, Hill has never strayed far from his Weyburn roots.
"It's a very humbling experience," Hill said of his induction. "I've always kept my roots to my hometown alive, and I've always incorporated it into an aspect of my career."
During his remarks, Hill recounted a story of discovering fellow Weyburn native Tenille Arts, now a successful singer-songwriter based in Nashville, and inviting her to perform at a gala in Atlanta celebrating the 50th anniversary of U.S.-Canada relations.
"My secretary said, 'There's a lot of talent in Nashville. There's even somebody from Weyburn,'" Hill recalled. "I said, 'I don't care about the other ones. Let's find out the Weyburn artist.'"
That decision led to what Hill described as a “magical evening” where Weyburn’s presence was felt on a global stage.
Hill still visits Weyburn regularly to see his mother and brothers.
“I have a revolving date with Weyburn every four to six weeks these days,” he said.
With their induction, Bohn and Hill join a prestigious list of past honourees whose contributions have shaped the identity and pride of Weyburn. The Weyburn Walk of Fame includes names such as former Premier and “Father of Medicare” T.C. (Tommy) Douglas, author W.O. Mitchell, NHL fan favourite David “Tiger” Williams, world-class golfer Graham DeLaet, Paralympian Curt Minard, and longtime Red Wings coach Dwight McMillan. Other inductees include Jo-Anne Bannatyne Cugnet, Kathryn Groshong, Irene Salemka, and Noel Hall, among many others.