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Running Free Lenny may have ended up a little muddy, but it was worth it for some fun playtime at Pup’s Playground - Unleashed on Sunday, April 3rd. There is a big park and a small park available for rent where you can let your furry friends run free for hour long periods.
Now Booking for Summer of 2022! • In-Floor Radiant Heating and Boiler Installations • Residential - Commercial - Farm Shops Visit www.nrgheating.ca to learn more Call Dan at 306-380-9089
Page 2 - APRIL 7, 2022 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER Box 970 37 Centennial Dr. S. Martensville, SK SOK 2TO Phone:(306) 931-2166
Visit www.martensville.ca for more information
Civic Services Under the Lifting of the Public Health Order - What You Should Know!
Saskatchewan’s current public health orders have been lifted, effective February 28, 2022. City Hall and all civic facilities are open and available for business with the public. Civic facilities are a ‘mask-friendly’ environment, meaning the City of Martensville respects all individuals’ freedom to don a mask for their own comfort and safety.
April 2022 Council Meeting Dates Please Note: Council Meetings may be attended in-person but guests must wear a mask and should practice social distancing within Council Chambers. Those still wishing to attend but would wish to do so virtually should contact the City Clerk or visit the online agenda for the link to attend. Committee of the Whole -April 12th Regular Council Meeting- April 19th
Martensville Athletic Pavilion - Opened, including drop-in programs. Contact the MAP or Martensville.ca for information or questions about programs.
The Regular Council Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers in Martensville City Hall at 37 Centennial Dr. S. All meetings commence at 5 PM.
Please do not visit City Hall or public facilities if you are feeling unwell, experiencing flulike symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who is presumptive or tested positive for COVID-19.
Those wishing to address or do a presentation to Council must be placed on the agenda. To be placed on the agenda please contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall or visit the website for details.
After Hour Water and Sewer Emergencies- should still be directed through the Emergency line at City Hall, (306) 931-2166, ext.1.
The full Council and Committee of the Whole Schedule can be obtained at martensville.ca.
Questions about Facilities or Programs? City Staff are available to work with the public via phone or email. Questions or inquiries can be directed to City Hall via phone (306931-2166) or inquiry@martensville.ca OR the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (306-6835576) or mapreception@martensville.ca.
Big Changes Coming for Water Meters
The City of Martensville is initiating a program where existing water meters will be replaced with new automated water meters. Neptune Technology Group will be installing the meters by area and will be contacting homeowners to make appointments for the change-out. This project will begin in late February and be completed city-wide by July. To learn more, please check the information piece with your water bill or visit martensville.ca
POLICE
BEAT
High-Risk Vehicle Stop Performed To Stop Suspects Near Martensville Thursday Night Five people have been arrested by the Saskatoon Police Service and face firearm charges, after trying to evade police on Thursday night. Just before midnight on March 31st, 2022, police observed a vehicle believed to be stolen, and attempted a traffic stop near the intersection of 22nd Street West and Witney Avenue. The vehicle failed to stop for officers and eventually proceeded onto Idylwyld Drive, heading northbound. Stop sticks were successfully deployed at Marquis Drive, but the vehicle continued on Highway 12, without both front tires, towards Martensville. Shortly before reaching Township Road 380, the vehicle stopped and Tactical Support Unit officers assisted in performing a high-risk vehicle stop. After approximately 30 minutes, five people left the vehicle and were safely taken into custody. Upon searching the vehicle a loaded rifle was found inside. A 45-year-old man is charged with Dangerous Driving, Evading Police, Prohibited Operation of a Vehicle, Breach of Conditions and seven firearm related charges. Four women, ages 28, 24 and 22 face multiple firearm related charges.
Traffic Stop Leads to Multiple Arrests On Sunday, April 3rd, Corman Park Police conducted a trafffic stop and the driver of the vehicle presented with signs of impairment. The driver was arrested and open alcohol was found in the vehicle. Two of the occupants in the vehicle were arrested for Warrants for Unlawfully at Large from a Correctional Facility.
City of Martensville City Hall Hours of Operation:
Lane Usage During Spring Thaw Monday to Friday
The City of Martensville encourages residents, for which their lane is a secondary means of 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM access to their property, to limit their usage during the spring thaw period. Heavy or repetitive Statutory Holidays) vehicle usage during spring thaw and(Excluding wet conditions can cause further rutting and reduce drainage. This limits the ability of crews to conduct maintenance on the lanes in a timely manner and increases time required to reshape lanes. For questions or further information please contact Public Works at 931-2166. More tips for Spring Thaw can be found on Martensville.ca under ‘Services for Residents’.
The Martensville Business Expo is Back! The Martensville Business Expo is April 29th from 5-8 PM and Saturday, April 30th from 10 AM-4 PM. Reconnect with the businesses and organizations in our community! There will be delicious food, great drinks, interactive booths, sales and local entertainment all Expo long! The Martensville Kinsmen are providing breakfast on Saturday from 8-10 AM and it is by donation! Admission to the Expo is $2, watch for updates in the coming weeks on the weekend’s activities. To Register, your business for a booth, contact the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce.
Partnership Helps Remove Impaired Drivers From Roadways Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
On April 1, MADD Canada kicked off their Report Impaired Drivers (RID) Mobile Sign Program, where every time an impaired driver is charged, a MADD volunteer will place a sign stating “Impaired Driver Caught Here” at the location they were arrested as a reminder that impaired driving continues to be an issue within the province. MADD chapters from Estevan, Meadow Lake, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Regina and Moose Jaw are teaming up with the provincial RID program for this initiative. The RID program is a reminder for people to call 911 when you suspect a driver is impaired. “This campaign reminds the public about the important role they play in helping police take impaired drivers off the roads, and reinforces the message that if you see a driver you suspect is impaired by alcohol or drugs, you can call 911 to report it,” said Tracy Crawford, MADD Canada Western Regional Manager. Police services from across the province are working with MADD and SGI to help remove impaired drivers from Saskatchewan roadways. Numerous checkstops were held in Saskatchewan this past weekend, with impaired drivers facing the consequences and sober drivers being rewarded with gift cards to local businesses. Additionally, one sober driver in each community received a $75 gift card. In 2019, nearly 87,000 criminal charges and provincial license suspensions were laid in Canada for impaired driving and 3,993 charges and suspensions were laid in Saskatchewan. “Impaired driving continues to be a serious problem that happens at all times of day and in all communities,” Ms. Crawford said. “We believe these signs send a strong deterrent message and highlight the fact that driving impaired is just never worth the risk. It’s not worth having your license suspended, it’s not worth having a criminal record, it’s not worth the fines and legal fees. Most importantly it’s not worth the risk of a crash that kills or injures you, or other people.” On Friday, April 1, Northwest Division of the Saskatoon Police Service issued seven roadside suspensions with six of those for THC and one for alcohol. Additionally, one person was charged for refusing a breath test and impaired driving. Two drivers were issued approximately 12 tickets between the two of them with charges such as no seat belt, failure to have a license and driving while suspended. Corman Park Police Service worked alongside MADD to kick off the RID program on Friday night by holding a checkstop on Grasswood Road and Highway 19. Drivers that were sober received a gift from SGI and Market Tire. In total, one person was criminally charged, and four 72-hour suspensions were issued.
First of It’s Kind Trap, Neuter, and Return Program Held to Help Tackle Cat Overpopulation Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Kristine O’Brien, the owner operator of Paws Republic Centre for Pets in Martensville, along with her team, are always looking for new ways to support our furry friends, whether it be through fostering, fundraisers, bringing awareness, hosting adoptions events and much more. Most recently, Paws Republic Centre for Pets provided space for a unique program that was held in partnership between SOS Prairie Rescue and SCAT Street Cat Rescue. This program was a Trap, Neuter and Return (TNR), which was a week-long mission to help tackle cat overpopulation within the province. The TNR was a first of its kind and according to Madelaine Fast, the Vice President of SCAT Cat Rescue, the mission involved canvassing problematic areas, informing the community, fundraising, and then trapping cats. “Once the target cats identified are trapped, they are then brought to the holding facility and await their turn for surgery. The cats are vaccinated for rabies, dewormed, given an overall wellness exam and are spayed/neutered,” Fast explained. This event was held to help prevent hundreds of kittens being born into precarious circumstances and contributing to the already (what word can I use) cat population. Both rescues struggle year after year, regularly breaking their intake records with no sign of slowing down and space, time and resources can only go so far. “TNR is the most humane and effective tool in trying to manage the cat overpopulation. SOS Prairie Rescue has been administering this type of program since their inception and work with RM’s, towns, hamlets, etc. all over Saskatchewan. SCAT had done some very smallscale programs in the City of Saskatoon before the no roaming bylaw was introduced,” Fast said.
Once cats have had enough time to heal, they are returned to their community cat caregivers and any cats that do not bode well outside are put into foster care. During the week, a total of 102 cats were taken into care, and one litter of kittens was born. Fast noted that this is all possible thanks to the contributions of people calling for help, donating and volunteering their time. The contribution of a space to use as a holding facility for these animals was a massive addition to the program. With the large number of cats coming and going, Fast stated that a central location that was easily accessible to volunteers was necessary. “We had volunteers coming twice a day for cat care, including cleaning, feeding, administering medication, etc. and vet visits every day for the cats, and of course, Paws was ready, willing, and able to take on fostering any cats that needed some extra TLC.” “This was a massive undertaking and wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our vet clinics – Affinity, Dr. Omer, Erindale Animal Hospital and City Park, Paws Republic for renting us the space to spreadout and give the cats a safe place to recover and the many volunteers who kept the week running, as well as the SOS & SCAT boards for their support,” Fast stated. Currently, the City of Saskatoon does not allow for this type of program due to their no roaming bylaw, and Fast noted that they have lobbied the City in the past to ask for an exemption to the bylaw and run a pilot TNR project, but have not been successful in their efforts. “We chose to do this mission outside of city limits so that we could gather statistics, respect the bylaws and present our findings to the City of Saskatoon once again.”
MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 7, 2022 - Page 3
ABOVE: A week-long Trap, Neuter and Return program was recently held to help tackle the cat overpopulation issue within Saskatchewan. (SCAT Street Cat Rescue)
Missing Dog Found After Being Taken For 18 days Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
After 18 gruelling days of their dog being taken away from them, 18-month-old Chiko, a French bulldog, was returned to the family. The family was lured off their property by an unknown male subject, and were told they would have their dog returned to them. The male subject did not show up at the agreed location and when they returned to their home it had been ransacked and cash, jewelry and several items were taken. However, 18 days later, the owner received a message from a burner phone saying they could pick up their dog at the Town Hall in Osler. The dog was found in a kennel outside. The owners reached out to social media thanking everyone who sent messages, and everyone who shared the post of their missing dog which helped them get Chiko home safely. Police are investigating the incident. If you have any information regarding this, please contact Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 to leave an anonymous tip or visit www.saskcrimestoppers.com. If your tip leads to an arrest or charge, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $2000.
St. Paul’s Hospital To Receive State-Of-The-Art Surgical Robotic System A new, state-of-the-art surgical robotic system soon to be deployed at St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon will allow surgeons to perform minimally invasive procedures. The new Da Vinci surgical system will be used in urology, head and neck cancer, thoracic surgery and gynecological oncology. It is anticipated that the first robot-assisted procedure will be performed in the fall of 2022. “Our government supports innovations that can improve patient care and outcomes,” Saskatoon Willowgrove MLA Ken Cheveldayoff said on behalf of Health Minister Paul Merriman. “This type of advanced robot-assisted surgery reduces complications and shortens hospital stays for patients compared to open surgery, creating more hospital capacity to perform more procedures. We value the contributions of donors, and we are grateful to St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation and title donor Merlis Belsher for their commitment to this project.” The robotic surgical system is a console of surgical instruments guided remotely by the surgeon. The movements of the surgeon are translated through the sensitive fibers of the machine with precision to perform minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. This robotic surgical system will be the first of its kind in Saskatchewan, and marks the introduction of a Robotic Surgical Program to the province. “Acquiring this surgical robotic system will enhance our ability to provide state-of-the-art surgical service to the people of Saskatchewan. We firmly believe that patients should have access to the best surgical care here at home,” Saskatchewan’s provincial head of surgery Dr. Ivar Mendez said. “We want to thank Merlis Belsher and family for their visionary and transformative contribution to the Saskatchewan Surgical Robotic Program.”
M
ARTENSVILLE
ESSENGER
“This type of equipment advances one of the key Emmanuel Health values of innovation to boldly lead the way with courage, continuously improving and advancing creative solutions,” St. Paul’s Hospital Executive Director Tracy Muggli said. “This modern technology not only supports patients with enhanced care, it will also result in quicker recovery and shorter lengths of stay in our hospital, which means more people will be able to access timely hospital care.” The cost of purchasing this robotic system is approximately $2.5 million. The Ministry of Health will contribute up to $1 million to fund the purchase, and will cover annual operational expenses estimated at $160,000 in year one and increasing to almost $800,000 by year five when the system is fully implemented. St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation has committed to raising over $1.5 million for the robot and Merlis Belsher Family is donating a remarkable $1 million and providing up to an additional $100,000 as a matched gift. The robot will be named “Daryl” after Merlis Belsher’s late son. SPH Foundation CEO Lecina Hicke says the Belsher family’s gift will have far-reaching support in patients' health care journey. "For as long as I have known Merlis, I have known him to be a man of great vision and humility,” Hicke said. “The Merlis Belsher Family’s support of our province’s first surgical robot is not only a remarkable gift to our hospital and its many dedicated health care providers, it is a truly meaningful gift to our community, promising better patient experiences and outcomes while supporting the growth and advancement of our surgical programs and specialties.” Mr. Belsher says it’s important to ensure doctors have the best technology available. “The surgical robot is a win for everybody,” Belsher said. “A less invasive surgery means a quicker recovery and less time in the hospital. It will recruit doctors who are familiar with using this machine and retain the doctors we have here. I hope others are inspired to bring more technological advances to our health care system.” Videos of the Robotic Surgical System are available at https://drive.google. com/drive/folders/1tZClb3zo9R9_h07BEYYnIxTSuH6NTYDc.
Your City; Your Newspaper Box 333, Martensville, SK S0K 2T0 Phone: 306-668-1093 advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca Deadline for submissions is MONDAY at NOON.
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ABOVE: St. Paul’s Hospital will soon be able to offer patients minimally invasive procedures thanks to a new state-of-the-art surgical robot.
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Page 4 - APRIL 7, 2022 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER
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Saskatchewan to Raise Prairie Sky Chamber Gearing Awareness Around Organ and Up For Awards Gala Tissue Donation During April The Prairie Sky Chamber of Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
To celebrate April's National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Month, the Government of Saskatchewan is encouraging all Saskatchewan residents to sign up to the provincial online registry at www. givelifesask.ca, wear a green shirt on April 7 and share information online. "I'm pleased the Saskatchewan Organ and Tissue Donor Program is back up and running in full force for 2022 and will receive special focus and attention this month," Health Minister Paul Merriman said. "Since the government fulfilled its commitment to create a donor registry, nearly 18,000 Saskatchewan residents have registered online and joined the donor list. However, we want to see thousands more visit givelifesask.ca, and participate in Green Shirt Day, and Light It Green campaigns to help raise awareness for this worthwhile cause." The Government of Saskatchewan provides over $1.2 million in annual funding to support the provincial Organ and Tissue Donation program, resulting in three straight record years of donation rates. Despite temporarily pausing donations for several months in 2020-21 due to COVID-19, there were 26 organ donors which is Saskatchewan's highest on record. Donation rates decreased across Canada during the pandemic, and Saskatchewan saw a slight decrease as well to 19 donors in 2021-22. For the 2022-23 fiscal year, Saskatchewan is maintaining a health system target of 26 organ donors. The Government of Saskatchewan has launched an online provincial awareness campaign that also promotes the online registry with the messaging "Be a donor, Save a life." Saskatchewan people may also show their support for Organ and Tissue Donation on April 7 by participating in Green Shirt Day, a day recognized across Canada to honour the legacy of Logan Boulet of the Humboldt Broncos. He inspired more than 150,000 Canadians to become a registered donor and give the gift of life. It's simple to participate by wearing a green shirt, and post a photo online on your choice of social media platform. If participating through Twitter use the hashtag, #GiveLifeSask. April 7 will also feature Light it Green Day where landmark buildings across Canada, including the T.C. Douglas building in Regina, will be illuminated in green light in honour of Saskatchewan patients who have passed away while awaiting organ and tissue transplants. "We encourage people to participate in the planned activities this month to help us raise awareness, register as organ and tissue donors but be sure to have that very important discussion with their families so their wishes are known," SHA organ and tissue donation co-coordinator Kimberly Berscheid said. "In 2021, 156 Saskatchewan residents were given back the gift of sight because dozens of people made the decision to become cornea donors," SHA donation co-coordinator Jamie Robin-Partyka said. "We can all play a big role in turning lives around by making this generous decision. To find out how you can help, please visit www.givelifesask.ca." Information booths on organ and tissue donation will be located at the upcoming Saskatoon Blades game on April 8 (Saskatoon) and Saskatoon Rush game on April 9. Anyone 16 years of age and older can register as an organ and tissue donor online. After registering, it's essential to talk with your family so they understand your decision. One organ donor can save up to eight lives, and one tissue donor can help 75 people. For more information on organ and tissue donation in Saskatchewan or to register as an organ and tissue donor, visit www.givelifesask.ca
Commerce Business Excellence Awards (previously known as WMBEXA) will be taking place on Saturday, May 7th at the North Ridge Community Centre in Martensville. This year is the 7th annual gala hosted by the PSCC to celebrate businesses within the region. In 2020, the event was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic, and in 2021, the PSCC organized an online event that people could watch remotely; however, this year, everyone is ready to get together in-person once again. Nominations for the six categories opened on February 18th, and nominees were notified in early March. For the past month, judges have been busy scouring through the applications submitted. Debbie Brown, PSCC Executive Director explained that two professional organizations and a professional business person from outside of our business region were selected to judge the applicants. “The results of the evaluation submitted are reviewed by legal representation, a Chamber Executive member and the Executive Director to confirm the accuracy of the submission,” Brown explained. On Friday, April 1st, the finalists for each of the categories were announced via social media. The finalists are: Non-Profit: Martensville & District Lions Club, Martensville Farmers Market, Martensville Free Pantry and Warman Farmers Market Community Involvement: Atlas Outdoors, Legends Pharmacy, McDowell Martial Arts, Warman Home Centre and Zak’s Home Hardware Customer Service: Bo’s Pet Service, Breathe Better Specialists, Dahlia Salon, Pretty Little Pieces and Warman Home Centre
Business Marketing Award: Carter’s Counselling, Dahlia Salon, Pretty Little Pieces, Rave BBQ Rubs and Team Iron Elles
Employer of the Year: Dahlia Salon, Lakeview Insurance, Legends Pharmacy, Warman Home Centre and Zak’s Home Hardware New Business of the Year: Austin Reimer- REMAX, Darling Creations, Laserology, Rave BBQ Rubs and Reign Academy Business of the Year: Lakeview Insurance, Legend Pharmacy, Prairie ICF, Warman Home Centre and Zak’s Home Hardware “Revival” will be the theme for this year’s event, which was planned to celebrate new beginnings. The event will feature spring colours, a wine pairing experience, local entertainment and more. An afternoon reception will be held for the finalists which will include their family, friends and staff. A new addition this year is the option for rides available to the event and back to your business at the end of the evening. “This year is about celebrating the community support for local business. ‘We are Better Together’ says it all. Let’s get together with family, friends and co-workers to celebrate as a community. Good food, music and socializing! Life is good,” Brown added. For more information, or to register for this event, visit www. prairieskychamber.ca.
MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 7, 2022 - Page 5
Local Woman Grateful For Support to Help Bring Family to Canada From Ukraine Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The current situation in Ukraine has many of us glued to the news and social media to stay updated; however, for a Martensville family, this situation hits a little too close to home. Olya Vasyleha moved ABOVE: Olya Vasyleha has been to Canada from working hard to bring her family, Ukraine in 2008 including her niece Yuliia to Canada with her daughter from Ukraine. (Submitted) Stella, who was 2.5 years old at the time. Now, Vasyleha, who became a Canadian citizen in 2016; is the proud mother of five, with the oldest Stella, who is now 16, Alexei, who is 9.5, Nazar, who is 8, Nataly, who is 5 and the youngest – Sophiia, who is 3.5. With most of her family still in Ukraine, Vasyleha has spent more than a month worrying about those she loves that are currently living in a small-town north of Sumy, close to the Russian border in Northern Ukraine. Her family sleeps in their clothes in case they are forced to flee, and that is when sleep occurs, which is a rarity these days. There is tinfoil on the windows of their homes to prevent Russian military from seeing in or knowing that they are there. Moving around freely is a big problem and Vasyleha’s family rarely leave their homes as it is dangerous to go anywhere. “They are afraid of soldiers shooting into their homes. With the recent news of the deaths/murders in Buccha, they know about what the soldiers are doing to people and they are afraid,” Vasyleha said. Vasyleha’s mother, sister and niece have been waiting for a green light for travel so they can leave Sumy and go to Poland. From there, they will travel to Canada to be with Vasyleha and her children in Martensville. The “green light”, which Vasyleha explained means the humanitarian corridor, has not been opened since March 18th.
“My sister’s husband, her other daughter and grandson are staying behind. We want my niece and her son to come with the rest of the family, but they are not. The men stay behind to fight,” Vasyleha added. As soon as there is a green light, the three family members will leave. As of Monday, April 4th, the possibility for travel saw a glimmer of hope as there is a tentative plan in place to hire a driver to take them from Sumy to Poland on Saturday, April 9th. The plan is not set in stone and more will be known as the week progresses. Numerous fundraisers have been organized to help raise funds to bring Vasyleha’s family to Martensville. The ‘Local Love Saskatchewan Shopping Guide’ group on Facebook is currently hosting an online auction style fundraiser, ‘Fundraiser for Ukraine Asylum Seekers’. The purpose of this fundraiser is to help raise funds to purchase plane tickets for the three women to travel to Canada. All proceeds will go directly towards supporting the family. Already, Vasyleha noted that this fundraiser has brought in enough funds to help hire a driver (tentatively) for her family to travel to Poland rather than wait for a train. There will also be a Perogy and Sausage Night fundraiser held at the Cork and Kettle in Warman on Saturday, April 16th that will include a silent auction and door prize. Donations can also be made via a GoFundMe page created by Vasyleha’s daughter Stella, who was
ABOVE: Olya Vasyleha has been working hard to bring her family, including her mother Halyna to Canada from Ukraine. (Submitted)
22042BS4
ABOVE: Olya Vasyleha’s sister Iryna will be coming to Canada; however, her husband Igor will stay behind to fight. (Submitted)
born in Ukraine, which can be found by searching ‘Help me bring my family to Canada – Ukraine Crisis’ on GoFundMe. “I love my culture and have been showing my support through Ukrainian dance, spreading awareness on my social media platforms, and donating to fundraisers to help Ukraine. I, myself, currently have family living in Ukraine who need help. My mom and I are looking to raise money to be able to bring them here. For them to have the opportunity for a better quality of life than they have right now,” Stella states on the fundraiser. Additional support has also been provided by Affinity Credit Union in Martensville, who helped by opening an account so all funds raised can be deposited and distributed to help get Vasyleha’s family here. Once the family arrives, additional items such as clothing and hygiene items will be required, as they will only be travelling with a suitcase. “We hope to use some of the funds to help with that and to help them settle here. Donation items like that are being accepted right now in Saskatoon at Thrive Hearing Solutions, or you can contact them, and they will pick them up,” explained Vasyleha. The amount of support and compassion that has been shown to Vasyleha and her family has been incredible. Saskatchewan has strong Ukrainian roots and the people of this province have shown that this has not been forgotten. “I feel excited and can’t believe that people would help that don’t know me or my family. It makes me feel very grateful.”
Sonia’s School of Dance Celebrate Ukrainian Culture Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Sonia's School of Ukrainian Dance (SSUD), based out of Warman, is celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, and with the current situation taking place in Ukraine, they feel as though celebrating the Ukrainian culture is more important now than ever. Dancers from ages three to adult will be showcasing their talents on Saturday, May 7th at the Legends Theatre in Warman at 1pm and are inviting anyone from the area to come out and take part in this celebration. This event will feature a collection of all of the dances from the different groups showcasing various regions, dances and costumes. “We are a small club with big hearts ABOVE: Dancers from Sonia’s School of Ukrainian Dance. and have pridefully worked hard to share our Ukrainian culture over the past 40 years. If you aren’t Ukrainian, or don’t know much about the culture, it is very, very diverse. When it comes to dance, there are different regions of very specific dance moves and costuming and music,” SSOD Treasurer Erin Duff explained. The costumes worn by dancers all come straight from Ukraine and Duff, who is not only Treasurer, but also a dancer and a mom of dancers, noted that they are absolutely beautiful. This year, SSOD consists of approximately 30 dancers; however, Duff stated that there has already been an increase in interest for the next dance season, which runs from September to May. “Unfortunately, I think it is because of what is happening in Ukraine, but I think one of the silver linings is that people are looking for a way to reconnect to their roots and grab onto that culture again.” Registration for the next season will begin in June and dancers do not need to be Ukrainian to join. “Having a dance recital may seem trivial, but really, what we are doing is preserving the culture and passing it onto future generations. I do think that others are looking for that and they are starting to realize the importance of continuing these cultural traditions,” said Duff. SSOD has been working with two organizations to help those in Ukraine – Streams of Hope and The Ukrainian Patriot and Duff stated that those are good options for anyone looking to donate to the humanitarian efforts taking place. More information can be found by visiting the SSOD website at www.ssud. weebly.com, or by visiting them on Facebook.
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MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - APRIL 7, 2022 - Page 7
MLA Terry Jenson’s Report from the Legislature Budget Shows Saskatchewan Losing to Alberta
Saskatchewan’s most recent budget has quickly become a reminder of long-standing, hard-to-accept reality for this province: We are not as well off as Alberta. This envy of our 1905 confederation twin has largely been dormant for the past decade and a half in which Saskatchewan was growing at a pace similar to what Alberta has always experienced for roughly the same reason; Oil and other natural resource wealth, but after seeing Saskatchewan grow by more than 100,000 people in the early 2000s - a rate of growth unseen in this province in 90 years - Saskatchewan is suddenly falling into an all-too-familiar pattern. Recent Statistics Canada numbers show Saskatchewan to be dead last in growth (Prince Edward Island is now attracting more people than this province) while Alberta continues to grow. Worse, Saskatchewan is again losing people to Alberta (as it always seems to have done) at a time when numbers suggest we should be doing okay. After all, while Saskatchewan has taken a significant economic hit in the past couple years of the pandemic, moredependent-on-oil Alberta took an even bigger hit. One might think the two provinces would be about in the same position as we move back into a period of $100-plus-US per barrel oil … or that Saskatchewan should be in an even better position than Alberta. We have a lot more farmland and the Farm Credit Canada is reporting a 7.4-per-cent increase in its value of Saskatchewan farmland in 2021 - more than even 5.4-per-cent increase in 2020 and the 6.2-per-cent increase in 2019. With the war in Ukraine, the value of wheat production, oilseeds and pulse crops are also likely to rise dramatically this year. And the spate of canola crushing plants and other agriculture-related projects will add to our economy. This is great news for provincial budgets that have clearly floundered during the pandemic. We can already expect a $500-million increase in non-renewable resource revenue to $2.9 billion in 2022-23 compared with what was forecasted for the fiscal year that just ended. The most recent budget also shows that potash revenues alone —something that Alberta doesn’t have — will nearly quadruple to $1.5 billion in 2022-23 compared with $420 million in 2021-22. Yet the big story emerging from the Saskatchewan budget seems to be tax increases — specifically, the Saskatchewan Party decision to apply this province’s six-per-cent provincial sales tax (a PST that Alberta still doesn’t have) to everything from concert and football and hockey game tickets to gym and fitness club membership fees. In explaining her choices, Finance Minister Donna Harpauer said the Saskatchewan Party government used the list of to which the federal goods and services tax GST already applies "solely for simplicity instead of massive confusion"; however, Saskatchewan’s Finance Minister emphasized taxes on concerts, football games, gyms or anything else would not be her first preference. "I would love to remove the PST entirely and be Alberta, quite frankly," Harpauer said. "Unfortunately, in Saskatchewan, one dollar a barrel of oil (increase) is $14 million (in budget revenue). In Alberta, one barrel of oil is $500 million. "So we are more reliant on taxes than Alberta is." In a nutshell, Harpauer neatly summed up both Saskatchewan’s current budgeting problem … and its longstanding one in relationship to losing people to Alberta. "We have to stabilize our budget," she said. "We've seen in the past when resource revenues plummet and you've become too reliant on those revenues, then you are looking at scrambling and (dipping into) savings or cuts which truly doesn't serve us well." One can argue that poor spending choices are also a big part of the problem, but the bottom line very much seems to be as it’s always been - we are not as fortunate as Alberta because of oil. This is still the biggest difference between the two provinces.
Record Capital Investment in Saskatchewan Budget Helps Province Get Back on Track Ensuring a strong and growing economy, the Government of Saskatchewan announced our 2022-23 budget that bolsters our commitment to meet the needs of communities across the province. A record $3.2 billion in capital investments will focus on needed infrastructure like hospitals, schools, municipal and Crown projects, along with improving highways. Our roadways are key to getting Saskatchewan products to market. This budget includes $846 million to operate, maintain, build and improve over 1,100 kilometres of roads and highways. We are on track to meet our Growth Plan commitments to upgrade and build 10,000 kilometres of the provincial highway network by 2030. We will continue with our plan to design and construct passing lanes and twinning projects to increase safety. Other project include repairing or rebuilding 15 bridges and replacing 100 culverts around the province. Since 2007, our Saskatchewan Party government has invested over $2 billion to support the maintenance and construction of new health care facilities. Over the next four years, we will invest another $1 billion. Capital projects for this year include the redevelopment of the Prince Albert Victoria Hospital, the replacement of the Weyburn General Hospital, new Urgent Care Centres in Regina and Saskatoon, and long-term care centres throughout Saskatchewan. Rather than closing schools like the NDP did, our government is investing in them. We have committed well over $2 billion towards 57 new or replacement schools, as well as another 30 renovation projects since 2007. With this budget, $170 million will go towards ongoing capital projects including 15 new schools and renovations to five existing schools. Over $55 million has been set aside for preventative and emergency maintenance. Additionally, we have created a new $4.5 million Minor Capital Renewal Program to allow school divisions to prolong the life of schools across Saskatchewan. School divisions have been invited to submit applications for the 2023-24 Minor Capital Renewal Program, with the greatest priority being placed on health and safety. Approved projects will be announced on Budget Day next year. Our government is committed to ensuring safe, reliable, high-quality services are available for the people of Saskatchewan. Over the next five years, our Crown Corporations will invest more than $8 billion to make capital infrastructure improvements. This year, SaskPower will invest a record $1.1 billion into upgrading the province’s electrical system. The funding will improve reliability, replace aging infrastructure and meet customer demand. Similar work will be carried out by SaskEnergy, SaskTel and SaskWater to ensure customers have enhanced infrastructure while supporting economic growth. This year's budget invests nearly $292 million in government services infrastructure, including funding for dam and water supply projects, court and correctional capital projects, funding to modernize Saskatchewan's aerial wildfire suppression fleet and replace obsolete aircraft. We are also funding capital improvements in Provincial Parks like Duck Mountain, Saskatchewan Landing, Candle Lake, Meadow Lake, Echo Valley, Douglas and Battlefords Provincial Park. The work planned will improve the visitor experience. And municipalities will see more support with this budget. Budget 2022-23 provides $269 million in transfers to municipalities to support infrastructure projects through a variety of programs including the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, Canada Community-Building Fund and the New Building Canada Fund. These are just some of the larger projects for this year thanks to a record amount of capital investment. Almost $3.2 billion, combined with close to $12 billion projected for the next four years, will be invested into capital projects. That is a significant step toward meeting our Growth Plan commitment to invest $30 billion in infrastructure by 2030. While other regions are just starting to venture down the road to recuperating after a challenging two years, Saskatchewan is already leading the way. We have enjoyed an increasing population, record private investment, record job numbers and expanded global interest in our products and services the world needs. Investing in new and existing infrastructure is key to getting Saskatchewan back on track, and supporting long-term growth.
SGI Warns of Scam Many people across Saskatchewan have received a phony text from scammers urging them to click a link to “apply” for their SGI rebates. If you receive the text, don’t click that link! While $100 rebates are being issued to vehicle owners later this spring, customers do not have to apply for them. Anyone who is eligible will be mailed a cheque, as long as their mailing address is up-to-date. For accurate information about the upcoming SGI rebates, please visit SGI’s actual website: https://www.sgi.sk.ca/ news?title=2022-rebates
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.
Page 8 - APRIL 7, 2022 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER
First Annual ATV Show & Shine Comes to Martensville
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
On Saturday, April 9th, Good Times Recreation Daryl Brandrick, Owner-Operator of Checkered service and parts for all ATV’s/UTV’s. Good Times will be hosting their first ever ATV/UTV Show & Shine Recreation can supply you with anything from Flag Automotive in Martensville, has been in business in Martensville. There will be local suppliers present as since April of 2016, and since then has continued to provide suspension and steering parts, rebuild/repair kits, winter well as the most impressive icons in the ATV world. accessories, axles, tires and rims, and so much more quality service in the automotive repair industry. They “When talking about doing a Show and Shine, on any make and model whether it has 2, 3 or 4 wheels have seen several changes since initially initially the goal was myself and a few close taking over a portion of the building and friends showing off some of the ATV and expanding to the other side a short time UTV’s and bringing recognition to the sport, later. In 2020, the building was refaced, but it really snowballed fast in the last two and another addition was added on, as weeks and now we have 30 – 40 machines well as paving the parking lot which registered to come.” helped give them a better curb appeal. There will be several ATV clubs, Over the years, many customers a social media announcer, and Boom Box who brought their vehicles in for repairs Chicken will be serving lunch and snacks. were asking if they could service ATV’s “Some really big names in the industry will as well as they had no one to provide that be here bringing their machines. People that service, so Brandrick felt there was a are watched on youtube who provide their demand for it. offroading skills and ATV videos, those “When the other two bays guys are gonna be here and available for became available, I decided to take those autographs, like David ‘OstaCruiser’ Ostapiw, over and make it into an ATV repair who has a large Youtube channel and will be shop, since I have been in the ATV sport bringing his Russian Sherp. Jarett from Mud forever. I set up a separate bay for selling ABOVE: Daryl Brandrick, Owner-Operator of Checkered Flag and Good Times Recreation ‘N Wheels who builds upgraded differentials parts and accessories and maintenance and power trains will also be here, as well as and or tracks. They also sell aftermarket parts and strictly for ATV’s, UTV’s and side by sides, and that is representation from UTV.” accessories for all types of recreation and riding such how Good Times Recreation started,” said Brandrick. They will be selling tickets for the many door In the summer of 2021, the sign officially went as hunting, wet, dry and mud trails. They provide pick prizes available and once the event is over, they will up and drop off of machines if you don’t have a trailer, up and has been going strong ever since. Their goal is to pick a local charity to support. try to be able to accommodate everyone when it comes to and if you are local, there is no charge for this service. Brandrick’s main goal for this event is to bring awareness to the sport of ATV’s, what these machines can do, how far they have come, where it is going, and the size of the sport. “UTV side by sides have progressed immensely and people don’t understand what goes into them - they are a very high-end toy. They resemble vehicles more and more with seatbelts, four wheel disc brakes, and have better suspension than most vehicles. Lots of communities and smaller centres allow them to be used as vehicles if they are registered and insured properly. People don’t realize that young kids can enjoy them as well, as they fit car seats, so you can strap them in and take them with you to enjoy the many trails in Saskatchewan. There’s thousands and thousands of trails in Saskatchewan that go unexplored every summer because people just don’t Karen Parmar, AACI, P.App, BComm (Dist.) know how to access them.” Partner & Senior Appraiser - Warman, SK D The Show & Shine will be in front of Checkered karen@dynamicappraisals.ca Flag at Bay #3, 109 Centennial Drive North from 10am 306-220-9082 - 4pm Saturday, April 9th, with many intense builds on www.dynamicappraisals.ca display. Come on down and enter for a chance to win a OUR EXPERIENCE SHINES!! door prize and meet some of the BIG names in the ATV/ UTV world! For more information on Good Times Recreation, you can visit their website at FREE courtesy cars available 306.975.2140 Goodtimesrecreation.com or atvrepair.ca, as well as on Message us on FB Facebook and Instagram. You can also call them at 306227-3888.
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Plumbing Good Times Recreation is proud to be hosting the first ever ATV Show & Shine right here in Martensville! From local suppliers to the most impressive icons in the ATV world, you are NOT going to want to miss out on this!
DR. BRIAN MEYER DR. DACRE HAMILTON
306-934-4446
#12 - 2nd St S. Martensville www.martensvilledental.ca
CREATING SMILES IN MARTENSVILLE & AREA SINCE 2001
First Annual ATV/UTV Show & Shine
Roofing
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Residential/Commercial Re-roofs/New construction
scottlandru61@gmail.com scottroofingsask.com (306) 384-7663(roof)
Come on down between 10am - 4pm Saturday, April 9th, 2022 and see all the intense builds on display, your chance to win a prize & meet some of the BIG names in the ATV world! Stay tuned for more announcements on who you can expect to meet!
Bay #3, 109 Centennial Drive North