April 2, 2026 Digital Issue

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Your City; Your Newspaper April 2, 2026

VOLUME NO. 20 - ISSUE 14

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Future MVP in Motion

The Winter Sportball Multisport drop-off program held its last class on Wednesday, April 1st at Venture Heights School. See page 5 for how to register for their Spring Program.

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Page 2 - APRIL 2, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates

Elm Pruning Ban

City of Martensville Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public and we invite you to attend in person or virtually to see what is happening in our community.

Each year from April 1st - August 31st, provincial regulations prohibit the pruning of elm trees. This restriction is in place to help control the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED), a serious and often fatal disease that affects elm trees across Canada.

April 7 - Regular Council Meeting April 21 - Committee of the Whole Meeting May 5 - Regular Council Meeting

If you suspect a tree on your property or in your neighbourhood may be affected, or if you have questions about proper tree care, please contact the City. Additional information, including identification tips and prevention measures, is available through: www.saskatchewan.ca.

Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm

The 2026 Martensville Community Guide is out now!

If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you’d prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.

Easter Egg Geocache – April 3rd-12th

Use GPS coordinates to hunt hidden Easter eggs and be entered to win the grand prize!

• First clue drops April 3rd on the City of Martensville page • Submit your finds to bdueck@martensville.ca • Winner announced Monday, April 13th

Looking for info on businesses, programs, services, or just want to see what’s happening around the community this year? It’s all in one place.

Check it out at Martensville.ca > Discover Martensville > 2026 Community Guide Please note: hard copies will not be mailed to households this year. Hard copies are available for pickup at local businesses, City Hall, the Martensville Recreation Centre, MAP, the Library, and the Post Office while supplies last.

Take a look and see what’s happening in Martensville this year!

Get your family, friends, and adventure hats ready - it’s time to hunt, find, and win

Volunteer Appreciation Night – April 15, 5:00pm – 7:00pm |NRCCC The City of Martensville invites you to an evening of community connection and appreciation!

Meet the dedicated volunteers who make our sports, culture, and recreation programs possible, all while enjoying a free meal! Mark your calendars for Wednesday, April 15th from 5:00pm - 7:00pm. We can’t wait to see you there.

Organics / Green Bin Program & Pick-Up Schedule

The City of Martensville offers an Organics (Green Bin) Program in partnership with Loraas Organics. This program is available to residents through a subscription service.

Green Bin collection runs from May through the end of October, with bi-weekly pickups scheduled on Tuesdays. Collection alternates between North and South Martensville throughout the season. Residents can view the full collection schedule at Martensville.ca.

For more information about the program or to sign up for the Green Bin service, please contact the Utility Clerk at City Hall.

Upcoming Events Apr 2 | Toddler Time Frenzy – MAP Apr 2 | Aqua Fit begins Apr 2 | Storytime at the Library – Easter Apr 3 | NPD & Canwest Easter Geo Cache begins Apr 3 | All City Facilities closed (Good Friday) Apr 6 | I Spy at the Library begins Apr 6 | Monday Body Sculpt begins Apr 6 | Monday Forever in Motion begins Apr 6 | Evening Line Dancing begins Apr 7 | Tuesday Forever in Motion begins Apr 7 | Gentle & Yin Yoga begins Apr 7-10 | Easter Break Day Camps Apr 9 | Community Art Night at the Library Apr 9 | Thursday Body Sculpt begins Apr 9 | Thursday Forever in Motion begins

Spring Thaw and Runoff

With warmer temperatures arriving, City crews will be working to ensure streets, catch basins, drainageways, and culverts remain clear so water from the spring melt can drain properly and not back up onto roads or properties.

During the spring thaw, residents are encouraged to limit the use of back lanes, which serve as secondary access to properties. Heavy or repeated vehicle use in wet conditions can cause rutting, reduce drainage, and delay maintenance, as additional time and materials are required for crews to reshape lanes.

Residents with back lanes can also help ensure proper drainage during the spring melt by checking along rear fence lines and property boundaries and removing any debris or materials that could slow water flow or cause pooling.

A rapid melt may also lead to water seeping into basements or collecting on properties. Tips on how to protect your property during the spring thaw are available at Martensville.ca under Services for Residents > Water & Sewer > Drainage & Elevations

City of Martensville Notice Bylaw #12-2025

Notice Bylaw #12-2025

As temperatures continue to warm, potholes may begin to form. Permanent pothole repairs can only be completed when temperatures are suitable for the work. In the meantime, City crews will temporarily fill potholes with gravel.

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Martensville, according to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007, intends to consider a bylaw to amend the Official Community Plan (OCP) No. 2-2020 by: 1. Adding two policies to the Trilogy Ranch Concept Plan related to infrastructure in the R.M. of Corman Park.

REASON: This amendment will update the Trilogy Ranch Concept Plan currently before Council. The concept plan facilitates the orderly development of future commercial, park, and residential lands west of Highway 12. The full proposed concept plan is available to view on the City’s website.

EXAMINATION OF BYLAW: This bylaw may be examined by interested parties in person at City Hall on any judicial day between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Printed copies of the Bylaw and Notice are available to purchase for $1.00.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on April 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the City of Martensville Council Chambers to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the City Hall before April 14, 2026.

Dated at Martensville, this 20th day of March 2026.

Bonnie Gorelitza Planning Manager

To report a pothole, please call City Hall at (306) 931-2166, or report the issue online at Martensville.ca using the Report an Issue feature.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 2, 2026 - Page 3

5th Annual Easter Egg Hunt Returns to Warman Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Families are invited to hop into the Easter spirit as the 5th Annual Easter Egg Hunt returns to Lions Park this Friday.

Organized by the Hand Up Cupboard in partnership with Dragonfly Events, the popular community event is set to take place on Friday, April 3rd at 10:00am at Lions Park, located on 9th Avenue North in Warman.

The event has become a favourite for local families, offering children the chance to gather treats, enjoy the outdoors, and possibly even catch a glimpse of the Easter Bunny.

Organizers encourage families to arrive early, noting that the egg hunt moves quickly once it begins and encouraging those attending to arrive prior to 10:00am, as you may miss out if you arrive five to ten minutes late.

Children are invited to bring their own baskets and be ready to collect eggs and goodies spread throughout the park.

The event is hosted by the Hand Up Cupboard, a local volunteer-driven initiative that supports individuals and families in Warman and surrounding communities.

Through programs like this, the organization continues to foster community connection while supporting those who may need a helping hand.

Packed House for Senior’s Easter Ham Bingo Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The New Horizons Seniors Centre welcomed a large group of enthusiastic bingo participants on Thursday, March 26, all eager for the chance to win an Easter ham.

Bingo is hosted every second Thursday at the New Horizons Seniors Centre and welcomes participants of all ages. While regular bingo nights typically feature cash prizes, special ham or turkey bingo events are often held leading up to holidays.

The cost to participate is $15 for a full evening of games, with the option to purchase additional cards. The night also includes a 50/50 draw, a light concession, free coffee and tea, and plenty of friendly competition. Those interested in attending are encouraged to arrive early, as seats fill up quickly.

“A huge thanks to everyone who attended our Easter Ham bingo at the Centre.

It was the biggest crowd we have ever had to date. The Martensville New Horizons Seniors thank you all for your patronage,” said Ed Nowakowski of the New Horizons Seniors Centre in a social media post.

These bingo nights help fund activities and support the upkeep of the centre, benefiting the local senior community in Martensville.

The next bingo event will take place on April 9th at 7:00pm at the New Horizons Seniors, located at 106 4th Avenue North.

For more information on upcoming bingos and other activities, visit the “Martensville New Horizons Seniors” Facebook page or contact Ed Nowakowski at 306-382-2793 or 306-370-5365.

Prairie Sky Chamber to Celebrate Regional Success at 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce is preparing to host an evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements and impact of local businesses and entrepreneurs at the 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala (BEXA).

Set to take place on Saturday, May 9th, at the North Ridge Community Centre, the annual event will bring together members of the business community for a night of recognition, inspiration, and connection.

BEXA was created in 2016 to help shine a spotlight on outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals from across the WarmanMartensville region who have demonstrated innovation, leadership, and a commitment to strengthening the local economy. This year’s nominees represent a diverse range of industries, each contributing to the continued growth and success of the region through exceptional products, services, and community involvement.

The gala has become a highlight on the local business calendar, offering an opportunity not only to celebrate accomplishments, but also to foster relationships and showcase the strength of the regional business community.

Tickets and additional information for the 2026 Business Excellence Awards Gala are available through the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce. Those interested in attending or learning more can contact the Chamber at (306) 292-7066 or by email at contact@prairieskychamber.ca.

Page 4 - APRIL 2, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Smokehaus Meats Announces Second Location in Saskatoon Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A f t e r more than two decades serving the Martensville c o m m u n i t y , Smokehaus Meats is preparing to expand, with plans underway to open a second retail location in Saskatoon this spring.

Owner Trent Ens shared the news in a recent announcement, marking a major milestone for the locally grown business.

“After just 20 short years of operation in Martensville and 8 years at our plant just north of town, we’ll be opening our second store this spring,” said Ens. The new location will be situated in Evergreen Crossing in Saskatoon and is expected to open sometime in May or June, though an official opening date has not yet been confirmed. The second store will be slightly larger than the original Martensville shop and will offer full service, featuring the same selection and experience customers have come to expect.

“Our new store will be slightly larger and full serve with all of the awesomeness you love about our Martensville store,” Ens said, adding that the Saskatoon location will include “two tills for those extremely busy days.”

Growth at Smokehaus Meats has extended beyond just physical expansion.

The business has also seen its team evolve, with longtime employees Daniel and Amelia joining ownership last year, followed by the addition of suppliers Rob and Janice of Speckle Park Reserve and INC Cattle Co. as partners.

The expansion is also expected to bring new employment opportunities, with the current staff of 22 projected to grow to approximately 30 employees by the summer months.

Reflecting on the journey, Ens expressed gratitude to those who have supported the business over the years. “To my amazing wife and life/business partner Tanya, wonderful daughters, awesome partners, dedicated past and present staff members, excellent local suppliers and contractors and unbelievable patient customers I give my heartfelt thanks for joining me on this lifelong business journey,” Ens said.

More details are expected in the coming weeks.

April Programming at Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre Offers Something for Every Family Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Families in Martensville and Warman will have plenty of opportunities to connect, learn, and play this April as the Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre rolls out a full calendar of programming designed to support early childhood development and caregiver connection.

Throughout the month, the centre will offer a wide range of programs tailored to children from newborn to age five, along with supportive resources for parents and caregivers. Regular favourites like Bonding through Play continue to provide a welcoming space for families to gather, while a variety of specialized programs bring added learning and engagement.

Among the returning programs is Foundations Learning: Learn & Soar, running April 1, 8, and 15. Designed for children aged three to five and their caregivers, the program focuses on literacy through activities, rhymes, and storytelling, while also offering a parent session following each class. Younger children can benefit from Tummy Explorers on April 7, 14, and 21, which supports physical development for infants through guided activities and expert input from professionals such as nutritionists and physiotherapists.

Toddlers will have the chance to build communication skills during Lil’ Communicators on April 6 and 20, while older preschoolers can take part in Practical Life Skills and Lil’ Scientists, offering hands-on learning experiences that build confidence and curiosity.

The centre also continues to support family wellness through programs like Sip & Chat, held multiple times throughout the month. These sessions provide a relaxed environment for caregivers to connect while accessing guidance from visiting professionals, including a dietitian, lactation consultant, physiotherapist, and occupational therapist.

April also features a number of special events and one-day programs. Families can take part in Crafty Afty on April 13, explore hands-on fun during Water Sensory Play on April 15, or contribute to a collaborative Family Art Piece on April 16 in partnership with the Warman Arts Centre. A Culture Day on April 21 will provide opportunities to learn about and celebrate the diverse cultures within the community.

Health and wellness remain a focus with an Immunization Clinic scheduled for April 9, offering walk-in services for children aged 0–5. Additional programming includes Yoga for Kids on April 22, supporting both physical and emotional development, and Lil’ Readers on April 23, encouraging early literacy through storytime and crafts.

Families looking to refresh their children’s wardrobes can take advantage of the centre’s Clothing Swap on April 27, while local childcare providers are invited to participate in a Dayhome Drop-In on April 28.

While the centre will be closed on select dates, including April 2 for changeover and April 3 for Good Friday, the overall schedule reflects a strong commitment to supporting young families through accessible, inclusive, and engaging programming.

With a mix of educational opportunities, social connection, and family-focused events, the Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre continues to be a valuable hub for early years development in the region.

26034JJ0

M

ARTENSVILLE

ESSENGER

Your City; Your Newspaper Box 333, Martensville, SK S0K 2T0 Phone: 306-270-6156/306-361-3040 advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca

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Editor/Office Manager: Shanine Sealey ssealey@martensvillemessenger.ca

Editor/Ad Design: Jocelyn Ottenbreit

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To Contact Us About Advertising: advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca

Want to Share News?: news@martensvillemessenger.ca

SPORTS

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 2, 2026 - Page 5

VSA Outdoor Soccer Season Registration Now Open Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

ABOVE: The Martensville Marauder U11 C Bandits won first in their league for the 2025/26 season. Congratulations on a successful season! (Submitted)

Martensville Curling Club Welcomes Mike Steckler as President for 2026–27 Season Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Curling Club is gearing up for another exciting season following its recent AGM, where the 2026–27 board was confirmed and Mike Steckler was welcomed as President of the Board.

Several board members were acclaimed during the AGM, continuing their roles and providing stability and experience as the club looks ahead to another busy season on and off the ice.

The 2026–27 board includes Don Miller (Vice President), Karen Gruza (Secretary/Lounge Manager), Catlan Dallaire (Treasurer), Travis Gardewine (Monday Night Open Rep), Dave Zukewich (Tuesday Modified Mixed Rep), Travis David (Wednesday Men’s Rep), Rob Lesser (Thursday Open Rep), Lynn Remeshylo (Tuesday & Wednesday Daytime Rep), Scott Remeshylo (Draw Master), Michael Steckler (Junior League Rep), Lorrie Sorowski (Tuesday Social Leage Rep), Cara Zukewich (Social Media & Website) and Members at Large Derek Tarasoff, Jessica Nause, Evan McDonah, Brayden Grindheim, Clint Dieno and Amanda Holeha.

While much of the board has been filled, the club is still seeking a volunteer to take on the role of Monday Doubles representative. Club officials are encouraging members of the community to consider stepping forward to help support programming and league organization.

Looking ahead, the Martensville Curling Club has plans to introduce several exciting events throughout the season, continuing its tradition of offering both competitive play and a welcoming social atmosphere.

Residents are invited to take in the action at the club and enjoy the fun atmosphere in the Sheet 5 Lounge.

For more information, including board contact details, visit martensvillecurlingclub.com or email martensvillecurlingclub@gmail.com.

Families can begin getting ready for another exciting outdoor soccer season, as Valley Soccer Association (VSA) registration is now open.

The upcoming VSA Outdoor Soccer League will run from late April through July and is open to children throughout the Valley area. With programming available for a wide range of age groups, the association continues to provide opportunities for young athletes of all skill levels to get involved in the sport.

VSA is made up of 13 communities and clubs, all working together under a shared philosophy that emphasizes inclusion and accessibility.

Programming is organized by age division, with suggested play nights designed to help families plan their schedules. Kinder participants are slated for Wednesdays, while U7 players will take the field on Tuesdays. U9 boys and girls are scheduled for Mondays, U11 divisions on Fridays, and U13 boys along with U13/15 girls on Thursdays. Older divisions, including U15 boys and U15/18 girls, will play on Wednesdays, while U18 boys are scheduled for Tuesdays and Sundays.

Registration is now open, and families are encouraged to sign up early as spots fill quickly.

For adults that are looking for a fun way to stay active, the VSA Adult League is now accepting registration as well.

The season runs from May-August and games take place on Saturdays at 7:00pm, 8:00pm or 9:00pm at the Martensville Recreation Centre.

For more information or to register, visit valleysoccer.ca or contact vsainfo@valleysoccer.ca.

Notice Bylaw #3-2026

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Martensville, according to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007, intends to consider a bylaw to amend the Official Community Plan (OCP) No. 2-2020 by: 1.

Adopting the Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan into the OCP. REASON: This amendment will adopt the Lake Vista 2 Concept Plan as a schedule to the OCP. The concept plan facilitates the orderly development of future park and residential lands east of 10th Avenue North. The full concept plan is available on the City website.

EXAMINATION OF BYLAW: This bylaw may be examined by interested parties at City Hall on any judicial day between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Copies of the Bylaw and Notice are available for $1.00.

PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on May 5th 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at the City of Martensville Council Chambers to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the City Hall before April 24th, 2026.

Dated at Martensville, this 2nd day of April 2026.

Bonnie Gorelitza Planning Manager

Sportball Ends Winter Season Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The Winter Sportball Multisport drop-off program held its last class on Wednesday, April 1st.

Introducing kids ages 3-4 to a variety of popular sports, it also builds independence, teamwork and confidence. The class is led by certified coaches and is all about fun movement and skill-building.

To register for their Spring program starting in May, check the Spring Program Guide, as well as martensville.ca.

Page 6 - APRIL 2, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Celebrating a Saskatchewan First: Royal University Hospital Completes First Stereotactic Robotic Epilepsy Surgery

The Saskatchewan Health Authority and Royal University Hospital (RUH) Foundation are proud to announce a historic milestone: Saskatchewan’s first stereotactic robotic epilepsy surgery has been successfully completed at RUH on March 23, 2026 using the newly installed ROSA (Robotic Stereotactic Assistance).

The installation of the ROSA robot, named Erin in honour of donor Merlis Belsher’s granddaughter, was made possible through the generosity of donors from across the province. The RUH Foundation led the $1.2-million fundraising campaign, including a gift of $700,000 from the Belsher Family.

“Our government is committed to putting patients first and ensuring access to high-quality care is available for everyone in Saskatchewan, including the over 10,000 people living with epilepsy,” Minister of Health Jeremy Cockrill said. “This neurosurgical robot will improve outcomes for patients living with epilepsy who can now access safer, shorter and more precise surgeries, with quicker recovery times, closer to home. We are incredibly grateful for the contributions of Merlis Belsher and Family, all of the donors and the Royal University Hospital Foundation for the funding they have provided for this technology.”

Epilepsy affects approximately 12,000 people in Saskatchewan. For roughly one third of those who live with drug resistant epilepsy, the condition can place major limits on independence, employment, driving and daily life. Until now, patients requiring this advanced diagnostic procedure needed to travel out of province for assessment.

Manual placement of depth electrodes, which are essential for understanding where seizures begin in the brain, allowed surgeons to place only three to five electrodes during procedures that could take eight to nine hours. This meant that many patients did not receive enough diagnostic information to determine whether surgical treatment could help them.

"The introduction of the ROSA robotic system, Erin, is an exciting advancement that reflects what is possible when clinical expertise, innovation, and community support come together," said Andrew Will, Chief Executive Officer of the Saskatchewan Health Authority. "This technology advances epilepsy care in our province and strengthens our ability to provide comprehensive treatment close to home. We are deeply grateful to RUH Foundation and the many donors whose support made this possible."

"The stereotactic robot is a key component of any centre offering comprehensive epilepsy care — and now it's in use at the RUH. With this new technology and the support and expertise of our epilepsy team, we can perform these important diagnostic procedures with greater efficiency and detail than ever before. I have seen firsthand what this can mean for people: patients who went from daily seizures to finishing university degrees, starting careers, getting their driver's licenses back. I am so proud to offer that level of care right here in Saskatchewan, and grateful for the support of the donors who made it possible." said Dr. Amit Persad, Neurosurgeon, RUH. The introduction of the ROSA robotic system at RUH represents a significant turning point for epilepsy care in Saskatchewan. With ROSA, neurosurgeons can now place 16 to 22 electrodes in a single three-hour session with remarkable precision, dramatically reducing procedure time while greatly increasing diagnostic capacity.

This richer and more detailed seizure mapping helps clinicians make clearer decisions for patients who previously could not be fully assessed. This technology now brings advanced surgical investigation and treatment options to Saskatchewan patients in their home province, reducing the need for travel and strengthening RUH as a provincial centre of excellence in epilepsy care.

“The ability to offer advanced epilepsy assessment and treatment within the province is transformative for patients and families. This achievement underscores our commitment to delivering high‑quality surgical care across Saskatchewan, said Dr. Mike Kelly Provincial Department Head of Surgery. “This moment would not be possible without the support of the Royal University Hospital Foundation. Their collective vision and generosity are directly improving the lives of patients and shaping the future of surgical care in Saskatchewan.”

“We are so grateful to Merlis Belsher and Family for their inspiring matching gift and to all the donors from across Saskatchewan who stepped up to fund this technology,” shared Jennifer Molloy, Chief Executive Officer of RUH Foundation. “It is incredible to see the impact of that generosity today, with the completion of the first robotic epilepsy surgery in Saskatchewan at RUH, the epicentre for medical care in our province. I am so grateful and encouraged to know that patients and their families from across Saskatchewan will benefit from this investment.”

The announcement coincides with Purple Day, a global day of epilepsy awareness that shines a spotlight on the 12,000 Saskatchewan residents living with epilepsy and celebrating a major step forward in provincial care.

Saskatchewan Protecting Progress Made On Breast Cancer Diagnostics Wait Times

Additional Year for Out-of-Province Initiative Ensures Continued Access While Maintaining Protecting Gains in Local Wait Times and Capacity

The Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) are continuing to take action to improve access to breast health services by extending an initiative that allows patients to receive diagnostic procedures at a medical facility in Calgary.

Since the out-of-province initiative launched in November 2023, the number of patients waiting for urgent diagnostic breast biopsies has decreased by more than 87 per cent.

"We are putting patients first by continuing to improve access to breast cancer diagnostics for Saskatchewan women," Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. "We have made significant progress in reducing wait times and increasing capacity here at home with the recruitment of an additional breast radiologist and the opening of the Regina Breast Health Centre. Extending the contract allows us to protect this progress and keep options open for patients to ensure they receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time."

The contract with Canadian Surgery Solutions has been extended to March 31, 2027, as a temporary measure to ensure patients continue to have timely access to urgent breast cancer diagnostics while maintaining recent improvements in Saskatchewan's health system.

As of March 13, 2026, a total of 831 patients have been referred to the Calgary clinic, with approximately 746 having already completed their diagnostic procedures.

Letter to the Editor The Martensville Messenger welcomes letters to the editor for publication. Letters must be signed and a phone number and/or email address included so the writer’s identity can be verified. ALL letters are the opinion of the writer and NOT the Martensville Messenger. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with the current standards of public taste. Submit your letter to news@martensvillemessenger.ca or mail to Box 333 - Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.

Up to 1,000 patients are expected to benefit from expedited care through the initiative.

Patients requiring urgent diagnostic procedures, such as mammography or breast biopsies, will continue to be assessed and triaged by health care providers. Those who are eligible and interested in travelling will be offered care in Calgary based on clinical urgency and availability, ensuring those with the most urgent needs receive priority access.

"The Out-of-Province Breast Assessment Program continues to play an important role in ensuring patients receive timely diagnostic care," Saskatchewan Health Authority Interim Vice President Clinical and Support Services Richard Dagenais said.

"Patients can be confident that Saskatchewan is taking all necessary steps to ensure their care is not delayed, while we continue to strengthen capacity within the province."

This out-of-province initiative remains an option while work is ongoing to build capacity within Saskatchewan. The SHA continues to focus on recruitment and system improvements to deliver more procedures in-province, particularly in Regina.

Improving breast health services for women continues to be a priority for Saskatchewan. Additional measures to improve access and reduce wait times include: • Since 2023, biopsy wait times in Regina have decreased, with a substantial reduction in the number of urgent patients waiting for care, supported by increased specialist capacity; • Additional volumes in Saskatoon and Moose Jaw, providing more than 315 longwaiting and urgent patients with timely access to breast diagnostic procedures; • The opening of a Regina Breast Health Centre in April 2025, which co-locates services to improve access to timely diagnosis and treatment and support better patient outcomes; • Expanded screening eligibility, with women aged 43 to 49 now able to receive a screening mammogram without a referral, supported by additional staffing and two new mammography machines; and • A new, modern mobile mammography unit was introduced in January 2026. The new mobile mammography unit is now providing enhanced breast cancer screening services across Saskatchewan, serving 42 rural and northern communities. A second mammography unit will be introduced this spring.

To learn more about the out-of-province breast cancer diagnostic initiative, please visit: saskatchewan.ca/medical-imaging.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 2, 2026 - Page 7

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Charges Laid Following Multiple Overpass Strikes in Saskatoon

POLICE

Charges have been laid in connection with three separate incidents earlier this month in which overpasses in Saskatoon were struck by vehicles hauling heavy equipment.

According to the Saskatoon Police Service (SPS), the incidents occurred on March 5th, March 11th, and March 22th, and all remain under investigation by the SPS Traffic Unit. The Saskatchewan Highway Patrol (SHP) has assisted in each case, providing specialized expertise in inspecting commercial vehicles and oversized loads.

Because the charges were issued as summary offence tickets, court information numbers are not available.

The first incident was reported on March 5th, when a semi-trailer hauling an excavator struck the Circle Drive overpass while travelling northbound on Highway 11.

While the investigation is ongoing, SHP officers laid several charges, including damage to public infrastructure, driving without due care and attention, operating a vehicle with a major defect, brakes out of adjustment, exceeding maximum height restrictions, and failing to comply with permit conditions.

A second strike occurred on March 11th on Circle Drive near 108th Street. In that case, members of the SPS Traffic Unit laid charges that included failing to comply with permit conditions, failing to complete a daily vehicle inspection, exceeding maximum permitted dimensions, including height and width, and driving without due care and attention.

The third incident, reported on March 22th, involved the CPKC rail overpass near 108th Street and Circle Drive. The driver involved left the scene but was later located by RCMP in Martensville.

Following an inspection of the vehicle on March 23rd, SHP officers issued multiple charges, including exceeding regulated gross vehicle weight, damaging public infrastructure, exceeding axle weight limits, exceeding maximum permitted dimensions, failing to complete a daily inspection, and failing to comply with permit conditions.

During the investigation, the City of Saskatoon also confirmed damage to the McKercher Drive overpass following a report submitted through its online portal. Police have since determined that a separate, unknown semi driver hauling heavy equipment also struck the McKercher overpass on March 22nd. Members of the SPS Traffic Unit’s Hit and Run unit are continuing to investigate that incident.

Due to the damage to city-owned infrastructure, SPS indicated that once investigations are complete, files will be forwarded to the City of Saskatoon Solicitor’s Office to determine any further legal action.

Authorities are reminding commercial vehicle operators of the importance of adhering to all height, weight, and transport regulations, as well as conducting proper load inspections before travelling, to help protect infrastructure and ensure public safety.

Additional details regarding tickets and charges are expected to be released as they become available.

Your City; Your Newspaper Support Local 306.361.3040/306.270.6156 advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca

BEAT

Saskatchewan RCMP Warns Residents of Lottery Mail Scam

Saskatchewan RCMP are warning the public of an increase in reports of fraudulent letters being delivered by mail to residents in communities across the province.

In these incidents, individuals report receiving a letter in the mail claiming they have won a “Set for Life” lottery prize. The letter arrives in a handwritten envelope addressed to the recipient. The scammer identifies themselves as the President of Operations of “Set for Life” lottery organization, states that the recipient has won a lump sum of money and includes contact information for collection. The letters typically include: • the recipient’s mailing address • “Set for Life Lottery” letterhead • a return address • a subject line and file number • a set of “winning” lottery numbers • the lump sum of money allegedly won • instructions to call a phone number to collect the prize • a guarantee of “safety and security” The return address and phone number are not associated with a legitimate lottery company. Do not respond to the letter, call the number, or provide personal information over the phone.

The Saskatchewan RCMP encourages the public to remain aware and protect themselves from fraudulent mail by: • being cautious of unexpected mail claiming you’ve won a prize or owe urgent fees • never sharing personal or financial information with unverified senders • avoiding calling numbers or visiting websites listed in suspicious letters Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate. If you receive a similar letter, report it to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Saskatchewan RCMP can be contacted by calling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.

To make a report to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, find tips and for more information visit: https://reportcyberandfraud.canada.ca/

Police Increase Presence in Saskatoon Retail Areas During March Initiative The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) recently wrapped up a four-day high visibility initiative aimed at deterring crime and improving safety in several of the city’s busiest retail areas.

Led by the SPS Community Mobilization Unit (CMU), with support from Alternative Response Officers (ARO), the initiative focused on proactive enforcement and community engagement. Officers maintained an overt presence in key locations, including the 200 block of 1st Avenue South, the 300 and 400 blocks of Confederation Drive, 8th Street East, and the 2400 block of 22nd Street.

The initiative was designed to address a growing concern around retail crime, particularly incidents involving prolific shoplifters. Police noted that these offenders are increasingly displaying aggressive behaviour, at times concealing or producing weapons during thefts.

Throughout the four-day effort, officers worked to deter criminal activity while also connecting with businesses and the public. The approach combined enforcement of the Criminal Code, the Traffic Safety Act, local bylaws, and the Safe Public Spaces Act, alongside education and partnership-building with retailers.

Police say the goal of the initiative was to enhance safety in Saskatoon’s retail spaces by maintaining a strong, visible presence and addressing issues before they escalate.

SPS expressed appreciation to retail partners and community members who supported the initiative and continue to play a role in reporting suspicious activity.

Residents are encouraged to report non-emergency incidents or concerns by calling 306-975-8300, or 9-1-1 in emergency situations.

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