ESTEVAN — April 2024 was a month of activities and some achievements for Estevan and its surrounding communities. From thrilling sports victories to cultural celebrations and impactful fundraising events, the region once again demonstrated its dynamic spirit.
The Moosomin Rangers captured the Big Six Hockey League championship for the first time in two decades, sweeping the Redvers Rockets in the final.
Estevan city council approved a tender for the rehabilitation of parts of First Street and Eighth Avenue.
The Estevan Wildlife Federation hosted its 38th annual fundraising dinner and auction, raising $30,000 to support programs and activities.
The 10th annual Charity Classic brought the community together to benefit the Broken Arrow Youth Ranch, an organization helping young individuals in need.
The Estevan Strippers' Molson Spring Bust Tournament, held from April 3-7, drew 36 teams to compete at local arenas, showcasing the region's love for recreational hockey.
Firefighters faced their first grass fire of the season on April 4, caused by fireworks along Valley Street. In the same week, Southeast College awarded $30,000 in scholarships to students in heavy equipment and industrial mechanic programs, with funding from the Mining Industry Human Resources Council.
The provincial government announced $530K investments into short line rail infrastructure. Representatives of the short line rail sector, along with local farmers and southeast RM reps, joined government officials at the Long Creek Railroad Company Inc. facility west of Estevan.
Eighteen charges were laid after the EPS arrested one person following a chain of thefts and other crimes.
On April 9 and 10, Estevan youth Carter Yunick served as an ambassador for STARS Air Ambulance, sharing his story during the Critical Care on the Air Radiothon, while local entrepreneur Daralee Kittelson released her first children's book.
Charges were stayed in the case of Estevan's Joshua Regis LeBlanc, nearly two years after he was arrested on sex-related charges.
The East Side Story – a 1950s murder mystery party – took guests on an exciting adventure, helping raise funds for the Souris Valley Theatre.
The weekend of April 13 was packed with events. Estevan honoured the 107th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge with commemorations by the South East Military Museum and the Estevan branch of the Royal Canadian Legion. The Midale Organization for Recreational Expansion (MORE) fundraising auction set a new record, raising $120,000 to benefit the Midale rink. Estevan's archery talent shone as 14 athletes and two coaches represented the Estevan Archery Club at provincials in Prince Albert.
Michael Gordon Jackson from Carievale was convicted of one count of abduction in contravention of a custody order.
Estevan city council approved the construction of a new sidewalk on Perkins Street; the project was completed later in the year.
Estevan's hockey heritage was celebrated on April 13, with the Estevan Bruins' annual Sportsman's Dinner featuring Hockey Hall of Famer Chris Chelios and former NHL player Mike Commodore.
The Rotary Club of Estevan marked its centennial on April 19 with a gala at the TS&M Woodlawn Golf Course, featuring speeches, entertainment and a celebration of its legacy. That same evening, the Estevan Recreational Dance Club concluded its eighth season with two sold-out recitals, highlighting local talent.
The Estevan Art Gallery and Museum introduced two new exhibits with artists Monique Martin and Jaynie Himsl with the Fibre Art Network.
Food, an auction, comedy and music all helped raise funds for the Creighton Lodge Trust Committee at their largest fundraiser to date at the Power Dodge Curling Centre.
The Estevan Mermaids' artistic swimming club wrapped up its season by competing at the Canadian Prairie Championships in Regina.
Community events continued with the Outram-Madigan 4-H Beef Club's steak supper and auction on April 27. The Estevan Public Youth Centre hosted its annual cornhole tournament the same day, engaging participants and supporters.
On April 28, the United Mine Workers of America and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers commemorated the Day of Mourning at the Estevan Coal Car, honouring those who lost their lives or were injured in workplace incidents.
Estevan residents witnessed a nostalgic moment as the 2816 Steam Train, known as the Empress, rolled through the region during the CPKC Last Spike Tour on April 29. Meanwhile, Deep Earth Energy Production announced a partnership with Vancouver-based Oppy to establish a greenhouse integrated with DEEP's geothermal project in Torquay, promising job creation and sustainable growth.
