For those who say that there is nothing to do in this town, they are sadly mistaken!  Recently, I read a Letter to the Editor in the Mercury where Michel Cyrene (Director of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Estevan) who was quick to inform those that there is nothing to do in town, there is.  For those who do not know what is going on in town and would like to find out, I would highly encourage you to visit tourismestevan.com. Here you will find a large calendar full of events that are going on every month, and throughout the year in the Energy City.  This being said, there were many events and initiatives that were going on in the month of June and I think it is important that some of the people involved should be recognized for all that they do!

1. Estevan Motor Speedway – Thank you to all of the volunteers and board members who put in countless hours to provide the residents and racing enthusiasts of Estevan with some high energy entertainment.  It always amazes me at the amount of people that are out there pre and post-race to get everything ready!  Good on you all!

2. Estevan Exhibition Association – Thank you for the amount of work you put in to make sure that we are able to have a fair every year.  My father was previously the President of the is Association and I know first-hand the amount of work and dedication it takes you to put the fair on!  Another exciting attraction for our residents!  Also, a shout out to all those who continue to organize the Idol competition which allows us to showcase some of Estevan’s musical talent!

3.Estevan Art Gallery – Unfortunately, I was unable to attend this event, but heard nothing but great reviews.  The work that the Art Gallery and all those involved in the Arts Council who work tirelessly to keep Art and Culture alive in the City is appreciated!

4.Woodlawn Regional Park Board, Nathan Puffalt and Becky Howie – A fantastic day that you put on to re-open Estevan’s biggest treasure, Woodlawn.  An amazing day was planned and you should be very proud of the accomplishment.  The re-building of Woodlawn truly shows the strength of this community and how well we can all work together when tragedy strikes!  Great work!

5. To all of the Community who took part in the United Way Day of Caring and to the Executive of United Way Estevan – Thank you for all of the work you did.  At ECS we are one of the agencies who benefit through Challenge Day, an initiative to combat bullying at our School.  The work you do is greatly appreciated.

6. Maureen Ulrich and the Souris Valley Museum Group – After combatting the effects of the flood, it is good to see this large tourist attraction back and in full swing!  It is always a great experience anytime I have attended.

7.Tanis Savill and the supporters of the Gown Drive at ECS – Your kindness, gratitude and initiative is something that leaves me speechless.  Again, it shows the strength and caring nature of this community and the people who live in it! Your story has been province and country wide! 

8.Kinsmen and Kinettes July 1^st Celebration – Thank you for allowing use to celebrate this Country’s Birthday with this city event you put on every year at your park in Hillside!  Thank you to the dedicated members who continue to help out with this.

This is not an exhaustive list there are many out there!  For those who continue to believe that nothing goes on in this city, I encourage you to check out the different websites out there that continue to showcase Estevan’s great events.  Also, get involved!  All too often I hear so many negative things about what goes on in this city!  My new motto is NO PARTICIPATION, NO OPINION.  Things don’t just happen; it takes a large amount of time and dedication to make it happen.  Sure there are efficiencies that can be found, but it takes time, volunteerism and dedication to find them.  I encourage everyone to seek out different volunteer opportunities and together we will work to grow this community into a stronger more proud community!