ESTEVAN — February in Estevan was marked by community spirit, cultural celebrations and noteworthy accomplishments across various domains.
The month kicked off with updates as the Estevan Police Service (EPS) concluded an investigation into a July 2023 fire on Fourth Street, determining it was arson and charging a youth.
Young figure skaters from southeast and east-central Saskatchewan showcased their talents at Affinity Place during the Region 1 and 6 Regional/Invitational Competition, with 79 athletes participating, including 13 from the host Estevan club.
The Estevan Wildlife Federation honoured local hunters, anglers and photographers during its annual awards banquet at the Estevan Exhibition Hall.
The Town of Redvers received a Corporate Vision Canadian Business Award for Rural Community Excellence for Saskatchewan, thanks to the town's ability to pivot during a challenging time.
A snowstorm on Feb. 7-8 brought challenging weather conditions to the region. Residents were digging out from snow, strong winds and freezing rain.
Cultural events took centre stage as the Estevan Art Gallery and Museum unveiled two water-themed exhibitions: Currents by Regina artist Holly Fay and Light from Water by Hanna Yokozawa Farquharson of Saltcoats.
The Souris Valley Museum complemented these displays by introducing the Adrian Paton Photo Collection Travelling Exhibit, celebrating the historical photographs of the Arcola man.
Estevan Comprehensive School (ECS) Elecs cheerleaders secured second place at the Best of the West competition in Moose Jaw on Feb. 10. And the ECS junior mixed curling team claimed victory at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ East District Junior Curling Playdowns in Radville on Feb. 9 and 10.
The annual McLeod Series basketball tournament saw the ECS Elecs senior boys' and girls' basketball teams' triumph over the Weyburn Comprehensive School Eagles in the best-of-four competition.
Lampman novelist Maureen Ulrich released the second book in her new series called Gabrielle Rouge, Winds of Change Book 2.
Hillcrest School revived its Kindness Club under the guidance of teacher Shannon Brown, encouraging students to embrace acts of kindness.
The Whiskers and Wine Gala brought together 170 attendees in support of the Estevan Humane Society. Guests enjoyed a memorable evening featuring music by Weyburn's American Idol participant Brayden King and his band.
Hill View Manor residents crowned their Valentine's King and Queen, celebrating Pauline Benko and Ken Geisel.
The Carnduff and Area Beef 4-H Club won the provincial junior 4-H curling championship in Prince Albert.
Music lovers flocked to the Orpheum Theatre on Feb. 17 for a special tribute concert by Saskatchewan musician Jack Semple, honouring Canadian legend Gordon Lightfoot.
Over the Family Day long weekend, the Estevan Basketballers organized winter basketball and volleyball tournaments, providing lively entertainment for the community.
Community celebrations extended to Oxbow, where residents enjoyed the Family Day Winter Fest.
After four years of a break, the Estevan Arts Council brought its winter arts camp back to the delight of many local families.
The Estevan Great North U18 AAA Bears reached a historic milestone, advancing to the playoffs for the first time in franchise history.
The Coldest Night of the Year Walk for Choose Life Ministry saw increased participation and fundraising.
Longtime Estevan Taekwon-do Club members Don Dechief and Wayne Brown demonstrated their expertise and dedication to the martial art by testing for their seventh-degree black belts, a rank signifying mastery.
Estevan Kinettes members contributed to the 48th TeleMiracle fundraiser in Regina, helping raise an impressive $6,112,717 for Saskatchewan residents.
On Feb. 26, Estevan city council approved $250,000 in funding for upgrades to the spectator area and boards at the Power Dodge Arena, ensuring improved facilities for local athletes and fans. Council also decided to remove the 1400-block of Seventh Street from its inventory of snow dump sites.
Envision Counselling and Support Centre Inc. launched a new Connected Families program to assist parents and caregivers in managing family dynamics, running weekly sessions in Estevan and Weyburn throughout 2024.
As part of Saskatchewan Aboriginal Storytelling Month, Estevan Public Library hosted storyteller Heather O'Watch on Feb. 27. O'Watch shared her journey and insights from her children's book, Auntie's Rez Surprise.
