Estevan

The Assembly of First Nations' annual general meeting next week in Winnipeg will set the stage — and the tone — for engaging with governments on major infrastructure projects.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says politicians will be paying close attention to the resolutions chiefs pass related to the federal major projects legislation. The bill, which passed in June, has seen strong opposition from some First Nations leaders and community members who fear it won't respect their rights.

Estevan’s dance community is gearing up for an exciting weekend as the Estevan Recreational Dance Club (ERDC) opens its doors to the public for a special Open House. The event is set for Saturday, August 30, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the club’s new location on 13027 3rd Street.

The Labour Day Long Weekend is here, officially heralding the end of summer and the return to fall for many. As the seasons shift, the summer heat is holding on for a few more days, with the current 30-degree temperatures sticking around.

Environment and Climate Change Canada Meteorologist Crawford Luke gives the forecast for the extended end-of-August weekend.

With the final long weekend of summer here and students preparing to head back to school, Estevan Police Chief Jamie Blunden is reminding residents to prioritize safety, both on the roads and online.

He encouraged drivers to plan for a safe ride home over the long weekend, whether through a designated driver, taxi, or arranging a responsible ride with friends or family. “We want everybody to have a good weekend, a safe weekend, and get home safe,” he said.

Residents of the Village of Macoun are being urged not to drink or cook with tap water following a serious advisory issued by the Water Security Agency (WSA) in consultation with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Effective immediately at 4:15 PM on Thursday, August 28, the entire village has been placed under a Do Not Drink Notice due to potential contamination of the community’s well. The advisory upgrades a previously issued Precautionary Drinking Water Advisory and will remain in effect until further notice.

Farmers are working on bringing in the harvest as the weather cooperates.

Last week's hot, dry weather also brought its share of thunderstorm activity with strong winds and hail which caused some lodging in crops. The Nipawin area had the most rainfall, with 42 mm, followed by the North Battleford and Consul areas with 30 mm and 28 mm, respectively. A number of other areas around the province are also seeing some scattered showers.

Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson has announced an increase in the lending limit on the Feeder Associations Loan Guarantee Program (FALGP).

Locally owned feeder associations utilize the program for low-interest financing backed by a government guarantee. Through the program feeder associations help livestock producers get financing to buy animals and grow their herds.

Producer, Dustin Lamb says the program played a huge part in his decision to return to the family farm and will be instrumental in keeping it going.

The City of Estevan welcomed residents to Citywide Registration this week, giving families a chance to explore programs and activities available this fall. City representatives shared information on registration, schedules, and opportunities for all ages, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of participating in local events. The event highlighted the variety of options available, from sports and arts to wellness and education, helping residents plan a fun and active fall season in Estevan.

Esteven Comprehensive School students, both those entering Grade 9 and the school for the first time, and those returning in other grades, got to step back into the school before classes started to load up their lockers. 

Craig Palmer, Vice Principal at ECS, lays out the night for any kids new to the school.

Ocean Man First Nation and Southeast College came together this week to celebrate the success of students who recently completed a computer skills program, a partnership that community leaders say highlights both education and the spirit of the treaty.

Newly elected councillor Justin Holeness, who carries the justice and youth, and recreation portfolios, said the collaboration reflects the values of sharing and building opportunities that are rooted in history.