The students determined that 10 per cent of their final profits would be donated to the five elementary schools in Weyburn. They donated a total of $696.19, which was divided up and given to Haig, Souris, Queen Elizabeth, Assiniboia Park and St. Michael Schools, with the funds to be used for purchasing food for children who may not be able to afford their food all of the time. In the company’s final report, they explained they wanted to donate the funds to the schools “because the majority of our company members attended these schools growing up and we wanted to give back to the schools that shaped us into who we are today.”
The most recent recipient of the Golden Spike was Winston Bailey, for 2019. “We encourage you to think of a person who exemplifies such qualities as leadership and innovation. The award is open to those of all ages and experience and is not limited to those nearing the end of their work career. Each year, we have many excellent nominations to choose from and we look forward to reviewing those nominated in 2021,” added Walkeden. The award recognizes individuals in five categories, including community involvement (such as volunteer work); leadership, in helping others to learn and grow; professional involvement, such as the effort of an individual to their industry; longevity; and stewardship, which refers to the individual’s commitment to the use management and use of resources.
Southeast College welcomed its first cohort of in-class students to its Powerline Technician Training facility in early January. The students started their Level Two Apprenticeship training in October 2020 with the online portion of their program and finished their two weeks of in-class practical studies on Jan. 15, 2021. “The feedback we have received from this cohort of students has been nothing short of tremendous. The students appreciated the flexibility of the online classroom portal that was used and were able to apply the practical knowledge they learned in the training facility,”said Jody Holzmiller, vice-president of Education and Training. article continues below
One of the highlights of the year for the Weyburn Chamber was how businesses had worked together to withstand the headwinds of the pandemic. “Many collaborated in innovative ways to access personal protective equipment in order to save money. Others focused on their business so they could provide curbside and touchless pickup for their customers,” said Walkeden. It was also great to see members of the general public finding ways to support those who were on the front lines. “A great example was the support that Melissa Carson gave, who provided much-needed meals for truckers going through Weyburn who were unable to access restaurants. Over a span of weeks, Melissa served over 900 meals and was recognized provincially for her dedication through the Saskatchewan Chamber and Conexus Credit Union.”
“The impacts of COVID-19 have been felt by many private sector businesses that have had to deal with laying off staff, adjust to revenue losses or having to close altogether. It’s clear that a community support effort to keep them operating is needed.” “Returning to a widespread, large-scale lockdown would be catastrophic to Saskatchewan jobs, Saskatchewan families, and on the viability of Saskatchewan businesses even with new and extensive government intervention.” “The societal, and economic harm would have lasting, irreversible impacts. Focused and strategic regulations that will curb the spread of COVID-19, while allowing businesses that are operating safely to keep their doors open, must be followed.”