A major part of the life and community of Weyburn and area are the outlying rural communities, which are in turn supported by the farming community throughout the southeast region.

In many ways, the two areas, urban and rural, are intertwined in their economies and activities, and are interdependent to a degree: Weyburn provides the goods and services not available in smaller towns and villages, and has groups and organizations for people to be involved with, while the towns, villages and farming area provides the customer base needed at the city's gas stations, restaurants, motels, retail outlets and services. In much the same way, the Weyburn Review provides coverage to the rural areas through the input of the local correspondents.

Historically, the Review has covered a wide radius around the city, taking in many of the small towns and villages throughout the southeast. In turn, many residents of those areas are able to keep in touch with others of their region, and also with neighbouring towns and rural areas, through the reports provided by the correspondents.

In a real way, the correspondents are an important link from those rural areas to all of our readers throughout the area, and those former residents who now live elsewhere in Canada and the U.S. and want to read all about back home.

When a correspondent is no longer able to carry on his or her duties, the torch is passed on to a new generation, who in turn can continue the tradition of keeping area residents informed.

The Review and residents of the Creelman area lost a great source of information with the recent passing of Frances Tatum, who helped provide news from the area for over 30 years. Frances was tirelessly involved in the Creelman community, volunteering for many community events and organizations.

Such are all of our correspondents, people who live and work in the town area, and are a vital, involved part of that community. Through their pride and love for their community, and their knowledge of the people and events of the area, they are able to share with us their insights to what is important to that town or village.

Take a look at what the people and groups in our area are doing and saying. Are there events or special people we should know about in those areas? Let the rural correspondent know, and they in turn can help keep the southeast area informed.

A myth perpetuated in large urban centres is that the rural areas are emptying of people, and nothing goes on out here. The reality is, most of our towns and villages have a vibrant, active life and economy. Most of the residents of those regions want that continue and to grow, to keep our special rural way of life growing and vital.

There is always something happening that we should be aware of, whether it's a fund-raiser to help keep a local hall going, a project or event at the local school, or a dinner theatre involving resident volunteers in the cast and crew.

Keep your neighbours informed by passing along news to your correspondent, or if your area has no correspondent, step up and let us know what's happening. - G.N.