A local man was given the go-ahead for release for the second time after wracking up another two charges in addition to the ones he's already facing from a drug and weapons bust that took place in Swift Current

Alexander Lindquist was out on bail after his initial arrest in September alongside several other adult individuals during a search warrant that recovered a sawed-off rifle, a significant amount of methamphetamine, and more.

The 25-year-old failed to respond when RCMP performed a curfew check at his residence and failed to report to his probation officer, receiving the two additional charges in December and pleading guilty to both.

Lindquist turned himself in to Swift Current RCMP and was held in custody until his court appearance on March 4 where he was granted bail once again.

He will serve a strict 24 hour curfew, must report to a probation officer, and is not permitted any contact with Klyrissa Johnson, who was arrested in the same incident in September.

The resident of Hazlet is also prohibited from possessing any controlled substance, firearms or weapons, or being within an establishment that sells substances, including cannabis stores and bars.

The presiding judge, Judge A.F. Jacobson, said that the defendant is starting to "take responsibility and has had to learn the hard way."

Lindquist is set to next appear in Swift Current Provincial Court on Wednesday, April 2. 

Ward 10 Coun. Clark Bezo says he wants Regina to reconsider a 2021 decision made by the previous city council to include fluoride in the city's drinking water. 

Distracted driving remains a major concern on Saskatchewan roads, with experts and advocates warning that even a few seconds of inattention can have deadly consequences.

Chief Scott Eashappie, 37, is charged with fraud, theft, money laundering and breach of trust.

Chad Bachynski and campaign manager Thomas Day did not have political experience before Regina's 2024 election. They say that was to their advantage.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe announced the province's response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods on Wednesday.

The Court of King's Bench decision details Joseph Yaremko's 25-year criminal history, noting an escalation in frequency and violence in recent years.

A southwest collaboration ended up in a nomination for Saskatchewan Music Awards Music Video of the Year.

Swift Current's Alder Irwin of Irwin Films directed a music video for Shaunavon's Hunter Brothers.

The video for Train (Station Edition) was filmed in multiple locations throughout the southwest including the old rail carts in Eastend.

"The song is kind of about coming back to really what is important at the end of the day," Irwin said. "We kind of worked together to find different locations and different ways to kind of convey that within the story and this is what we ended up landing on."

Irwin has had a good professional relationship with the Hunter Brothers.

"We started working together a few years ago on some acoustic session videos," he said. "We just kind of clicked. Those guys are just so great to collaborate with. They have such a strong drive for wanting to do things really well, but they always keep things fun and lighthearted as well."

This is a particular type of work that Irwin really enjoys.

"Music videos are probably my favourite thing I get to do," Irwin said. "I get to flex my creative muscles a little bit and try things that are a little more out of the box. It's something I wish to continue to pursue."

Irwin attended the SMA ceremony on the weekend and it was Joshua Slade who ended up winning the Video of the Year award.

"It's just an honour to be nominated," Irwin added. "Being able to sit in a room with so many awesome and amazing artists is just a privilege in itself. It was a really fun night. There were so many good performances and it was just great to be a part of it all."

You can get more information on his work by checking out the Irwin Films website. 

The trade war between the United States and Canada is expected to impact people on both sides of the border. Saskatchewan wealth of sought-after resources means it has an interesting role in the conflict.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says the province will stop purchasing and halt the sale of American booze and work to stop buying other U.S. goods.

His comments come one day after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 25 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods, along with a 10 per cent levy on Canadian energy.

Moe says government procurement will also focus on prioritizing Canadian suppliers.

He says the goal is to greatly lower or completely eliminate U.S. procurement when it comes to capital projects.

Moe says the United States is Saskatchewan's biggest trading partner and will continue to be once the dust of the trade war settles, but adds that their relationship is changing quickly.

He has said Trump’s tariffs are unnecessary and will lead to steep "self-inflicted" price increases for goods and job losses on both sides of the border.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 5, 2025.

Six teens in Regina are accused of taking part in a string of 'Catch A Predator' assaults. Regina police say the accused used a dating app and posed as a 15-year-old boy to attract their victims.

One of two individuals charged in a massive fentanyl bust that took place near Swift Current a couple of months ago has just been released from custody on over half a dozen conditions.

Calgary's Swati Narula has been in the midst of an ongoing court case after her arrest on January 28 when Saskatchewan RCMP's Roving Traffic Unit and Saskatchewan Highway Patrol located 17 and a half pounds of fentanyl during a traffic stop.

The 26-year-old faces charges of possession and trafficking a controlled substance, she was given the green light to be released from custody on March 4 on a $10,000 bond to be paid by cash deposit.

Narula was also ordered to surrender her passports to Immigration Services, will be under a strict curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and is not permitted any contact with co-defendant, Kunwardeep Singh or allowed in any establishments that sell controlled substances, including bars or cannabis shops.

Additionally, she must stay at her sister's residence, is not permitted beyond 100 km of the residence, and is prohibited from being in possession of any weapons, electronics, or controlled substances.

Singh was previously granted bail on February 20 on a $25,000 bond and has since been released.

Narula's matters are ongoing and she is next scheduled to appear at the Swift Current King's Bench on Wednesday, April 2 for a preliminary inquiry.

The prairie gets ready to meet the sea in the Village of Abbey. 

The 10th Annual  Abbey Steak and Lobster Fundraiser is set to run on March 15. This event usually sells out in advance, so anyone interested in helping support the Abbey Business & Community Centre can get their individual rush seating icket for $80 each, or reserve an entire table for $800, seating eight. 

Last year, this event saw a stampede of support flood the ABC Centre with $60,000 of funding. 

Jenn Biensch, economic development officer for the Village of Abbey, is thrilled to announce that this year will not only feature a live auction, but some unique entertainment as well. 

"Dueling pianos!" announced Biensch. "So that's something a little bit different than what we've done in the past. It should be a good time!"

The live auction will feature an auctioneer, with a silent auction also open for the evening. 

Biensch hopes that anyone who has missed out in years past calls soon because the tickets are already starting to dwindle. 

"We've still got a few tickets left," said Biensch. "But we're looking to fill the place and celebrate having our best year yet!"

The event will begin with cocktails at 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., with supper to follow until 7:30 p.m., which will then open the live auction and duelling pianos afterwards. 

Anyone interested can call Chad, or fire him a text, at 306-587-7552. 

A traffic stop 14 kilometres west of Swift Current on February 18 led to the police recovering 7.5 million unstamped cigarettes.

The Saskatchewan Highway Patrol called in the Swift Current Rural RCMP to help search a tractor and trailer unit, they'd pulled over on the Trans-Canada Highway, which was travelling from Toronto to British Columbia. The search resulted in a massive finding.

“Our officers – while working in conjunction with our partnering agency – prevented over 7,000,000 cigarettes from entering the illegal market,” says Supt. Murray Chamberlin, Deputy Criminal Operations Officer for the Saskatchewan RCMP. “This is yet another example of the dedicated work of our officers and our province, who work together to keep Saskatchewan communities safe.”

Delta B.C.'s Sherry Kavukattu was arrested at the scene and faces three charges. 

• one count, sell, offer for sale, transport, deliver, distribute, or have in his possession for the purpose of sale a tobacco product, or a raw leaf tobacco that is unstamped, Section 121.1(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, sell, offer for sale of have in his possession a tobacco product unstamped, Section 32(1), Excise Act; and
• one count, possess, store, transport or sell tobacco that is not marked in a prescribed manner, Section 11(8), Saskatchewan Tobacco Tax Act.

He's scheduled to appear in Swift Current Provincial Court on April 2.

“Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers continue to prove their dedication to public safety, and this operation is yet another example of their ongoing efforts to prevent illicit substances from reaching our communities,” Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety Tim McLeod said. “This type of criminal activity can have widespread repercussions on our communities by creating opportunities for further trafficking crime and negatively affecting our economy and small businesses. We applaud the work being done by our policing agencies for the benefit of our province.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrapped up a call with his U.S. counterpart midday Wednesday, and there are expected to be more discussions between the two leaders' teams throughout the afternoon.

Congratulations to the organizers of the 2025 Evening in Greece fundraiser for the Hospitals of Regina Foundation. 2025 is again a SELL OUT and takes place this Saturday at the Delta Hotel. When 2026 rolls around, jump on getting your tickets to a fun filled evening of Greek cuisine, plate breaking, music and silent auction. This event celebrates it’s 31st year of giving back to the community and the Hospitals of Regina Foundation. Sat

Maddox Schultz and the Regina Pat Canadians are on the ice tonight in Prince Albert for the Sask Male Under 18 AAA Hockey League quarter. The Pat Canadians won the first game 3-2 vs the Prince Albert Mintos. Game 3 of the Best of 5 quarter-finals will be in Regina on Friday at 7:45 at the Co-operators Centre.

The Regina Pats will celebrate International Women’s Day Saturday night at the Brandt Centre. Game time is 6pm. Moose Jaw Warriors will host the Pats on Friday night in this home and home series. The Pats regular season is winding down with a limited number of home games on the schedule.

Saturday is International Women’s Day. The Sask Music International Women’s Day concert will be held at the Grand Theatre, Indian Head. Saskatchewan artists Eileen Laverty, Fiyin Obayan, Nafsi Rose and Annette Campagne will perform with the Qu’Appelle Safe Haven Shelter being the benefactor of the show. Tickets are limited and $25 per person. International Women’s Day Concert/Benefit – Indian Head – The Grand Theatre – Indian Head – Mar 7, 2025 · Showpass

Southwest residents and motorists are being given a friendly reminder of the costs and consequences that come with driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

SGI's Traffic Safety Spotlight for the month of March highlights safe ways home including walking, planning a ride, public transit, or calling a cab.

Jeremy Pilon, spokesperson for SGI, noted that statistics show that around 32 Saskatchewan residents are fatally injured in impaired driving incidents.

"This month, we're reminding drivers that they always have a choice when it comes to driving and impairment, and just encouraging everyone to make the right choice," said Pilon. 

Impaired driving can result in drastic consequences including vehicle impoundment, license suspensions, mandatory ignition interlock, participation in alcohol and drug education courses, demerit points, and possibly even a criminal record.

"There are quite a number of penalties and it depends on if you're impaired by drugs or alcohol, if you're a new driver or not, and things like that," he shared. "Of course there's fines and prison time, and if you've hurt or killed someone while driving impaired those fines and prison time can be quite severe."

 Pilon highlighted that it's always easier to plan a safe ride home ahead of time.

"Before you go to the bar or maybe light up, just know how you're going to get home safe at the end of the day," he concluded. 

Swift Current has a number of safe ride options such as City Transit, Phantom Cabs at (306) 773 - 8887, United Taxi at (306) 773 - 2084, and Legendary Cabs at (306) 741 - 4310.

Anyone interested in more information about impaired driving penalties for each driver class can head to SGI's website. 

The year's rash of potholes has begun to pock and pit the streets of Swift Current. 

Big ones, small ones, ones that you swear were only tiny just yesterday. They are all on the City of Swift Current's radar. On Monday, city councillor Ryan Plewis asked the general manager of infrastructure and operations, Greg Parsons, how the work was going on filling in and repairing the holes. 

Parsons assured council that his crews were already fast at work, doing what they could while the weather is still flirting with winter conditions. 

"It's pretty tough conditions right now," said Parsons. "because of all the water. We try to do the best we can, but as people are driving through them, it just pounds out the gravel."

Until the temperatures are stable in the warmer degrees, the road crews are unable to fully patch the potholes. Hot mix is no fan of water or frost, and filling the potholes with gravel is susceptible to erosion from the very vehicles that drive on the roads. 

The cold mix currently in use doesn't stick around very long, leading to the reoccurring potholes that seem to resist the attempts to fix them. 

"But we're trying to fix them and stay a little bit ahead of it," said Parsons. 

Swift Current Mayor, al Bridal, not that he had already seen crews out attempting to fix the potholes. Unfortunately, he was also able to confirm all the issues Parsons adressed, as one pot hole he had seen filled in the morning was already back to a pit by the time he returned later inthe day. 

"About three hours later for lunch and it was already pounded out," said Bridal. 
 

With the weather cooperating for the time being, the Swift Current Fire Department isn't expecting any immediate flooding of the Swift Current Creek. 

The forecast has been playing nice, and allowing for single-digit temperatures most days with overnight freezing. This has allowed the large snowpack to melt at a moderate rate, if not still slightly above moderate. 

Ryan Hunter, Fire Chief for the City of Swift Current, is confident that the advance planning they have been partaking in has set them up for success in the event any flooding does occur. 

"We are talking with the Water Security Agency every single Thursday," detailed Hunter. "We meet with them and our other resources. We have already talked with the Saskatchewan Provincial Safety Agency, and if we need more Hesco barriers, they're available."

The City has not begun putting up sang bags at this time. According to Hunter, they are ready to deploy the sandbags immediately should they need to. Those preparations are ready to go. 

Individual households that are at risk can approach the City for sandbags that they can set up themselves. More information on that equipment and supply can be accessed by either calling the City or stopping by city hall to ask questions. 

The Water Security Agency is keep the Fire Department and the City up to date on sattelite imagery and readings from key sources like the Duncairn Dam, which allows officials to track how the water is rising. 

Hunter assured that for right now, the City is ready, and there is no immediate fear of a flood happening. The emergency plan is in place, and partner agencies are waiting to help. 

"The City's plan is the exact same as it's always," said Hunter. "The same people agencies that were available for assistance (during the last flood) are being notified to see if they're still actively willing to participate in helping with sandbagging. That's all in our Swift Current emergency plan and conversations have been had with all those agencies to prepare them." 

Gull Lake families and residents can now order a tree free of charge to plant this spring as a part of Gull Lake's annual Boulevard Tree Planting Program.

Community members who are interested have until the beginning of May to order their trees, although they're encouraged to get orders in early as availability can be unpredictable. 

Emella Waiser, assistant administrator for the Town of Gull Lake, highlighted that not only are trees nice to look at, they help improve air quality and increase property value by up to 20 per cent.

"It's a program where people are able to take advantage of putting up new trees in the boulevard," she said. "They're responsible for planting them, watering them, and making them flourish."

Waiser noted that the trees are offered for free because they'll be planted in the town's boulevard and that they'll benefit both the community and environment.

"Every year we do the program in the springtime, we order from Jefrries Nurseries," she added. 

To get involved with this year's Boulevard Tree Planting Program, contact the town office at (306) 672 - 3361 or visit the Town of Gull Lake on social media. 

Prince Albert Police along with other law enforcement units have seized a significant quantity of illicit drugs, firearms, and drug trafficking paraphernalia after a months-long investigation. 

The next Liberal leader is scheduled to be announced on March 9. Behind the scenes, work to prepare the transition has already begun.

Saskatchewan's Minister of Education has issued a statement responding to the Arbitration Board's report on the new collective bargaining agreement between the provincial government and the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation.

"We would like to thank the arbitrator for his work and are pleased that the report was largely in line with what was offered in the previous tentative agreement," said Minister of Education and Swift Current MLA Everett Hindley. "We are looking forward to getting the agreement ratified and moving forward to working on common goals that create the best possible learning environment for Saskatchewan students such as improving k-3 literacy in Saskatchewan schools."

The Ministry of Education's communication department noted they were not planning any media availability on the report at this time.

In a media release end ensuing media availability, the STF stated the issue of class complexity will now be a part of the collective bargaining agreement. That's something the government-trustee bargaining committee (GTBC) had consistently opposed. The STF noted the two bargaining committees will have to decide what language will address that issue in the agreement or they may be back before the arbitration board again for a final decision.

The Arbitration Board also awarded the STF a nine per cent wage increase over three years. That includes retroactive increases for 2023 and 2024, and another increase this year.  

The agreement expires August 31, 2026.

The City of Swift Current has had to rescind and redo the rates for the Chinook Golf Course. 

Initially, Council Resolution No. 34 - 2025 set out to mark up the annual rate increase by five per cent. However, upon further review, the City discovered that some of the rates were set higher than then limit of five per cent. 

In order to amend this, Monday's city council meeting was forced to first rescind Council Resolution No. 34 - 2025 and approve the rates again with the amended appendix C. 

The adjusted rates include the cart trackage and driving range rates.  Like all the rates, they are rounded to the nearest dollar or are adjusted to market equivalents. These rates do not include tax. 

Interested individuals can find the full report in the council documentation on the City of Swift Current website. 

Personal approaches to the perfect pre-dawn meal — plus how to make them.

A man who died in a Pelican Narrows jail cell took a lethal amount of cocaine while in custody, according to a report from the province's Serious Incident Response Team, which cleared RCMP of any wrongdoing in the 2023 death.

The City of Regina is proposing to raise the mill rate by 8.5 per cent and utility rate by 5.8 per cent, the largest increases in several years.