August 6, 2026 Digital Issue

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With assistance from Saskatoon Police Service Air 1, Corman Park Police Service officers and Saskatoon RCMP safely rescued an impaired driver after a vehicle crashed into a body of water around 3 a.m. The driver was arrested and charged with impaired operation and failure or refusal to comply with a demand. Thankfully, the incident ended without serious injury.

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Page 2 - AUGUST 6, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates 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.

August 18 – Committee of the Whole Meeting August 25 – Regular Council Meeting

Back Alley Improvement Project – 225 Main Street Rear lane improvement work has begun on the alley to the east of 2nd Avenue North, just north of Mainstreet. The work is limited to the rear lane roadway (see project map below) and will include the removal of existing material, installation of the required base materials, and asphalt paving.

The project is estimated to take 4 weeks to complete. Work will be carried out in three phases, beginning with Phase 1 and progressing west through Phases 2 and 3.

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

Each phase will consist of preparation work involving the removal of existing material and installation of required base materials. Once all phases are complete, final asphalt paving work will begin, starting with Phase 1.

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.

Construction Impacts During construction, the highlighted lane will be closed in phases as shown, to allow crews to safely complete the required roadwork.

Temporary Traffic Changes – 10th Avenue South

Garbage/recycling collection will continue as scheduled. The City is working with Loraas Disposal to ensure collection continues throughout the project.

Construction is now underway on the City’s Water & Wastewater Infrastructure Project along 10th Avenue South.

Residents whose primary vehicle access is from the lane will need to make alternate parking arrangements while work is taking place adjacent to their property.

This project is a partnership between the City of Martensville and the City of Saskatoon to install new regional water and wastewater infrastructure that will support continued growth and provide a reliable, long-term servicing solution for our community.

Construction will be staged to ensure fire and emergency response vehicles can access the lane if required.

Motorists should continue to expect single-lane alternating traffic through the construction zone, with temporary traffic signals in place to safely guide vehicles. These traffic changes are expected to remain in place for approximately two months while crews complete this phase of the work.

Temporary impacts may include limited access, noise, and increased activity in the area. Work is scheduled Monday through Friday during regular work hours.

For more information, visit the City’s website or contact City Hall at 306-931-2166.

Access to the City’s Lagoon and Yard Waste Site will remain available throughout construction. A dedicated traffic signal will assist vehicles entering and exiting the site, and oversized load restrictions will be in effect during this phase of the project.

For additional project details, construction schedules, traffic impacts, and updates, visit the Water & Wastewater Infrastructure Project page on the City’s website.

Property Tax Reminder – Due July 31 As a reminder, 2026 property taxes are due by July 31. Payments received after the deadline are subject to a 1% monthly penalty, beginning August 1, until the balance is paid in full.

The City offers several payment options including: In-person at City Hall Interac e-Transfer® Online and phone payments through your financial institution TIPPS (Tax Installment Payment Plan Service) Mail, or after-hours drop box at City Hall If you’re paying online, please allow 3-5 business days for processing to ensure your payment is received before the deadline.

For more information, visit the City’s website or contact City Hall at 306-931-2166.

Centennial Drive North Upgrade Back on Schedule as Concrete Work Begins Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Construction on the Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project continues to make steady progress, with crews reaching another significant milestone this week.

According to information updated on the City of Martensville website, the contractor has completed the required granular base work, allowing the next phase of the project, which is pouring concrete curbs and sidewalks, to begin.

Concrete crews are expected to be on site next week, starting work along the west side of Centennial Drive before moving to the east side and the medians.

Crews will take a short break over the long weekend, with no work scheduled for Saturday or Monday.

The City says the project has returned to schedule, crediting the recent stretch of hot weather for helping construction crews make strong progress.

The temporary roadway installed to maintain access throughout construction has continued to perform well, requiring only minor maintenance. The adjacent laneway is also being monitored regularly and maintained as needed to ensure safe travel.

Despite ongoing construction, businesses and services along Centennial Drive remain open and accessible. Residents are encouraged to continue supporting local businesses by using the temporary roadway while work is underway.

The City is also continuing to work with the RCMP on traffic monitoring and enforcement along the designated detour routes to help maintain safety during construction.

City officials thanked residents, businesses and commuters for their continued patience as work progresses on the important infrastructure project.

For the latest updates on the Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project, residents can visit the City of Martensville's website under Services for Residents – Current Roadwork Projects.

Upcoming Events August 7 | Wiggles & Giggles at the Library August 9 | Special Swim Sunday – Retro Seniors Swim August 10 | VSA Summer Camp begins at the MRC August 10 | Fall Program Registration opens August 10 | Sportball Epic Summer Camp begins August 12 | Grow & Go Outdoor Club at the MAP August 14 | Martensville Slo-Pitch Year End Tournament begins

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MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - AUGUST 6, 2026 - Page 3

Splash, Pedal & Run Kids Triathlon Gives Young Athletes a Fun First Race Experience While Supporting Martensville, Warman & Area KidSport Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

Young athletes will have the chance to swim, bike, and run in a friendly community setting at the Splash, Pedal & Run Kids Triathlon on Sunday, August 30, 2026. Hosted by Craven SPORT Services, the event is designed to introduce children to triathlons in a positive, low-pressure way.

The race begins at Mocon Fields and finishes at Kinsmen Park near Cones in Martensville. Check-in opens at 9:30 a.m., with the race starting at 10:00 a.m.

The triathlon is open to children ages 3 to 12, with age groups for 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. Course distances are adjusted to suit each age group, making the event approachable for both new and returning participants.

Participants will complete up to a 500 m run, a 25 m swim, and a 600 m bike ride. Parents may accompany children on the course if extra support is needed, especially for younger athletes or first-time racers.

Rather than focusing on competition, the event emphasizes participation, confidence, and fun. Each child will have the opportunity to experience the excitement of race day while being cheered on by family, volunteers, and the community.

Registration is $15 per child and includes a finisher’s medal, race bib, and postrace snacks. All proceeds go to Warman, Martensville & Area KidSport.

Families are encouraged to arrive prepared with the basic gear their child will need for each part of the race. Participants should bring a swimsuit, towel, running shoes, a properly fitting bicycle, a CSA-approved bike helmet, and a water bottle. Comfortable shorts and a T-shirt can be worn after the swim or over a swimsuit, and sunscreen or a hat may be helpful before and after the event.

Race morning will begin with check-in and bib pickup. Families should plan to arrive around 9:30 a.m. so there is enough time to get settled, organize equipment, and review the race instructions before the 10:00 a.m. start.

Children will set up an area with their bike, helmet, shoes, towel, and water bottle. For first-time participants, this is often the best time to walk through what will happen during the race and remind them that the goal is to enjoy the experience.

To prepare for the event, no formal training is needed. A few short, playful practice sessions can help children feel more comfortable before race day. Families may want to practice a short bike ride, a brief run afterward, or one pool length for older children.

Parents may accompany younger children, run beside them, or help in the transition area when needed. That extra support can make a first triathlon feel less intimidating and more enjoyable.

For many families, the most memorable moment will be watching each child cross the finish line and receive a finisher’s medal. More than a race, the Splash, Pedal & Run Kids Triathlon is a chance for children to build confidence, try something new, and celebrate being active in their community.

Jamie McCulloch, Program Coordinator I stated that “Craven Sport Services is our title sponsor; Carter's Counselling is our Snack Sponsor, and Atlas Outdoors Cycle and Recreation is our Race Package sponsor” “If anyone is interested, we will have a vendor village for business to attend and promote tier products/services. They can email me at jmcculloch@martensville.ca.”

To register, visit martensville.ca under Community Events or by calling 306683-5576 ext 0.

Impaired Driver Rescued After Vehicle Crashes into Water Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A potentially tragic impaired driving incident ended without serious injury after emergency responders rescued a driver whose vehicle had entered a body of water in the early morning hours of July 31st.

At approximately 3:00am, Corman Park Police Service (CPPS) responded to a report of a vehicle that had crashed into the water, with the driver sitting in waist-deep water nearby.

With assistance from Saskatoon Police Service Air 1, officers quickly located the vehicle and the driver. Working alongside the Saskatoon RCMP, police safely directed the individual to walk back to shore, where they were taken into custody without incident.

According to CPPS, the driver displayed obvious signs of impairment and was arrested at the scene. Emergency Medical Services assessed the individual, who was found to be in good condition.

The driver has since been charged with Impaired Operation and Failure or Refusal to Comply with a Demand.

Police say the incident serves as another reminder of the serious risks associated with impaired driving. While the outcome could have been far worse, the quick response from emergency crews helped prevent what may have become a fatal incident.

"Thankfully, this event did not result in serious injury or loss of life," CPPS said in a statement.

Roadwork to Temporarily Close City Hall Parking Lot August 5th and 6th Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Residents visiting Martensville City Hall and several nearby facilities are being advised of upcoming roadwork that will temporarily impact parking in the area.

Construction work is scheduled to take place on 1st Street South, near the City Hall entrance, on Wednesday, August 5th and Thursday, August 6th.

During the work, the parking lot serving City Hall, the Martensville Library, Civic Centre and Food Pantry will be temporarily closed. Those planning to visit any of these facilities are asked to use available street parking nearby.

While vehicle access to the parking lot will be unavailable, sidewalk access and the main entrance to City Hall will remain open throughout the construction. All affected facilities will continue to be accessible to pedestrians.

Motorists and pedestrians travelling through the area are encouraged to watch for construction activity and follow any posted signage.

Page 4 - AUGUST 6, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Boats are Not Exempt: Saskatchewan RCMP Reminds the Public About Impaired Operation Laws

Over 100 containers of alcohol were dumped, and seven tickets were issued by Saskatchewan RCMP during boat patrols on Last Mountain Lake.

On July 25, 2026, Lumsden RCMP and Saskatchewan RCMP’s Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan conducted proactive boat patrols on Last Mountain Lake.

During the six hours officers spent patrolling the water, police: • dumped over 100 containers of alcohol; • issued four tickets for open alcohol on a boat; • issued one ticket for operating a boat without a license; • issued two tickets for open alcohol on shore; and • issued several warnings for lack of life jacket use.

Officers also conducted 20 Mandatory Alcohol Screenings (MAS), with multiple boaters coming close to the provincial suspension limit. Officers remind watercraft operators that impairment – whether it be from alcohol, cannabis, or other intoxicants – is punishable under the Criminal Code. Furthermore, it is prohibited to have open alcohol on a watercraft.

“A day on the lake may feel more relaxed than a drive on the road, but your responsibility to be safe – and abide by the law – is the same,” says Supt. Grant St. Germaine, officer in charge of Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services. “On any given day, there are families out fishing and kids tubing or wake-surfing on the lake. These are the people – along with yourself and your loved ones – that you are putting in harm’s way if you ignore the law.”

As people continue to enjoy Saskatchewan’s lakes and waterways this summer, Saskatchewan RCMP encourages everyone to abide by the following safety tips to help have a safe experience: • Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.

• Ensure you do not have open alcohol on board.

• Never operate a watercraft while impaired.

• Follow safe boating guidelines and speed limits.

• Always wear a life jacket and use safety equipment properly. Every watercraft must have at least one life jacket per person on it.

• Ensure your water vessel has operable lights. These must be used when travelling on the water after sunset.

• Stay off your cell phone – don’t be a distracted driver.

• Be prepared with safety equipment and a first aid kit.

• Have your Pleasure Craft Operators Card with you on the water. This is mandatory for all watercraft operators.

• Know what to do in an emergency.

Saskatchewan RCMP advise that if you see or experience an emergency on the water, call 911 immediately. In a non-emergency, contact your local RCMP by calling 310-RCMP.

In 2025, Saskatchewan RCMP Responded to the Highest Number of Collisions Involving Impairment in the Last 10 Years

In 2025, Saskatchewan RCMP responded to 113 serious and fatal motor-vehicle collisions involving impairment by alcohol and/or drugs.

“This is the highest number recorded in the past ten years. There has been a steady upward trend since 2016, when Saskatchewan RCMP responded to 58 serious and fatal motor-vehicle collisions involving impairment,” says Superintendent Grant St. Germaine, officer in charge of Saskatchewan RCMP Traffic Services. Saskatchewan RCMP will continue working to remove impaired drivers from our roads, but we also need people to start making safer choices.”

Saskatchewan RCMP officers have been working to reduce impaired driving across the province by conducting motor vehicle check stops, leading proactive road safety initiatives, carrying out daily patrols, and organizing educational events.

In 2025, Saskatchewan RCMP laid a total of 1,650 criminal code charges for impaired driving and suspended the licences of 2,270 drivers for having consumed alcohol or drugs prior to driving.

“This is the final release in the Saskatchewan RCMP’s 2025 statistics series – and the timing couldn’t be better,” says Superintendent St. Germaine. “It’s an important safety reminder at a time when Saskatchewan RCMP has responded to an increase in fatal collisions – and as we head into a long weekend when many people will be on the roads. Please – for your safety, the safety of your loved ones, and the safety of all road users – drive safely this long weekend. We all have a role to play to reverse these devastating trends.”

Saskatchewan RCMP officers across the province will be patrolling throughout the province this weekend. They remind motorists of the following: • Give yourself time to get where you are going. This prevents speeding and ensures you are focused on road safety. Posted speed limits are maximum speeds during ideal conditions (dry roads, clear visibility). Vehicle type, condition, and whether or not you are towing anything can affect the speed at which you can safely travel.

• Always ensure everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seatbelt.

• Keep your phone out of reach. In Saskatchewan, using a hand-held cellphone while driving is prohibited for making or receiving phone calls; sending, receiving or reading text messages and emails; surfing the internet; and using “push-to-talk” technology. Also be mindful that other things, such as eating/drinking, conversations with passengers and pets, can be distracting. Give your full attention to the task at hand: driving safely.

• If you - or your guests - will be consuming products which result in impairment, such as alcohol or cannabis, have a designated driver assigned, or plan to take a cab or transit.

If no safe ride is available, stay the night and drive only when sober. Don’t take a chance.

If you question whether you’re “too impaired to drive or not”, you likely are.

• If you see a suspected impaired driver, pull over and immediately call 911. Signs of a possible impaired driver include: lane drifting; driving too fast, slow or at an inconsistent speed; not using proper signals; making very wide turns; approaching and leaving intersections too slowly or quickly; driving without headlights; and leaving high beams or turn signals on.

Please note that the above statistics do not include collisions that occurred in other police service jurisdictions, on private properties, off roads, or that are the result of medical emergencies.

Saskatchewan RCMP Remind Residents to Continue to be Vigilant About Text Message Scams

Saskatchewan RCMP continues to receive reports of scam text messages, including recent clusters of reports in the Carnduff and Indian Head areas.

The messages claim that recipients have an outstanding traffic citation, and direct individuals to click a link and submit payment online, falsely identifying the sender as the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan.

Officers have noted the messages originated from a phone number using a “+21” area code. Please note that these messages are not legitimate. Saskatchewan RCMP advise the public not to click on any links provided in these messages and not to send payment or personal information.

Police encourage the public to take the following steps if they receive text messages from a scammer; don’t text the scammer back, block their phone number immediately, don’t send them any money or gift cards and keep records of the texts.

Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate.

If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a text message or believe you are the victim of a fraud, please contact your local RCMP detachment at 310-RCMP. If you receive a text message that you believe to be a scam or fraudulent, you can report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. You can report by phone (Toll free: 1-888-495-8501) or online here: https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/report-signalez-eng. htm.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - AUGUST 6, 2026 - Page 5

Martensville Collective Health & Wellness Expands Team-Based Care with New Nurse Practitioner Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville Collective Health & Wellness (MCHW) is growing its team with the addition of Nurse Practitioner Erin Boyce, a move clinic owner Dr. Allison Adamus says will bring greater stability, improved access to care and a stronger team-based approach for patients.

Boyce recently joined the clinic through Saskatchewan's Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Contract Program, part of the Government of Saskatchewan's Patients First Health Care Plan. The initiative is designed to improve access to primary care by expanding opportunities for nurse practitioners to provide publicly funded services throughout the province.

The timing couldn’t have been better. According to Adamus, Boyce contacted the clinic just days after one of the physicians announced she would be leaving the clinic.

"It all came together for a reason," Adamus said. "She has been exactly what we needed."

Boyce was already a familiar face to the MCHW team. Through the Seniors First program, she had spent years working alongside the clinic, providing home visits for housebound, elderly and palliative patients. That longstanding relationship meant the physicians already knew her clinical skills, professionalism and commitment to patient care.

"She's passionate about caring for this community and believes in team-based care," Adamus said. "She's brought an excitement that helped relight the fire for our team. She's been such a stabilizing force."

Although some patients may be unfamiliar with the role of a nurse practitioner, Adamus emphasized that Boyce provides the same comprehensive primary care services as the rest of her team. The primary difference, she explained, is that nurse practitioners follow a different educational pathway.

NPs can assess, diagnose, order and interpret tests, prescribe medications and provide ongoing patient care.

"With all of us working alongside one another, it gives us the opportunity to consult each other and continue building experience," Adamus said. “There are areas where someone may have more experience than another, and that is why we are constantly shoulder tapping our colleagues.”

That collaborative approach benefits both patients and providers. "Our philosophy at the clinic is that working together benefits patients," Adamus said. "Erin brings years of experience with her, and there are times that she is the one that we are going to for advice."

“When someone has a question or wants another opinion, we’re only a door away,” she added. “That’s how experience grows, and that’s how we make each other better.”

For Adamus, Boyce’s arrival also represents something the clinic has struggled to achieve in recent years; continuity, because, like many Saskatchewan communities, Martensville qualifies for return-of-service physicians, meaning many newly graduated doctors establish practices locally before moving elsewhere once their contractual commitments are complete.

“It’s hard on our team and it’s hard on patients,” Adamus said. “By the time physicians are fully settled into independent practice, they’re often moving on and we’re starting over.”

Boyce’s decision to build her career in Martensville offers a different kind of stability.

Gussied Up Drinks & Treats Brings Sweet Sips and Local Jobs to Martensville

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A new family-owned business is bringing colourful drinks, sweet treats and a little extra charm to Martensville.

Owned by Gabrielle Laviolette, Gussied Up Drinks & Treats is a mobile drink and treat trailer located in the parking lot at 301 Centennial Drive North (Martensville Corner Store). The business specializes in customizable drinks, including dirty sodas, fair-style lemonades and dirty Alani energy drinks.

The idea behind Gussied Up is to take familiar beverages and turn them into something a little more exciting. Customers can customize their favourite pop with cream, flavoured syrups, and other mix-ins to create combinations ranging from creamy and sweet to fruity and tropical.

That local focus extends beyond what is being served from the trailer. When developing the business, Laviolette also wanted Gussied Up Drinks & Treats to provide employment opportunities for teenagers in the community, giving local youth a chance to gain work experience close to home.

The mobile format also gives the family-owned business the flexibility to serve Martensville and surrounding communities while bringing its drinks and treats to different locations and events.

Gussied Up Drinks & Treats is currently open at 301 Centennial Drive North in Martensville. Customers can also contact the business at gussiedupdrinkstreats@gmail. com or follow them on social media for regular updates.

"She's local, she's passionate about full-service family medicine, and she's here because she wants to be, not because she's fulfilling a requirement," Adamus said. "That brings a completely different energy."

The clinic currently includes physicians Dr. Allison Adamus, Dr. Amanda Walker, Dr. Jamil Sawaya and Dr. Khadija Dulymamode, physiotherapist Trevor Adamus and Nurse Practitioner Erin Boyce, as well as two Medical Office Assistants.

Through funding provided by the Innovation Fund, MCHW also plans to continue expanding its multidisciplinary team by hiring an additional administrative staff member, a registered nurse and, eventually, a social worker.

The Innovation Fund, a partnership between the Saskatchewan Medical Association and the Government of Saskatchewan, has provided $10 million to help physician-led clinics across the province expand their teams, improve patient access and strengthen collaborative models of care. MCHW is one of 28 clinics selected to receive funding.

The Province announced that 26 new Primary Care Nurse Practitioner contracts have been awarded during the program's second intake, including Boyce's position in Martensville. Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said the expansion will improve access to care for Saskatchewan residents.

"Providing Saskatchewan families with increased access to primary health care services continues to be an important part of our Patients First Health Care Plan by ensuring the right care is available in the right place and as close to home as possible," Cockrill said. "In Martensville, the new Nurse Practitioner will provide primary care access to at least 800 patients."

Looking ahead, Adamus hopes to eventually expand the clinic itself, but says her immediate focus is building a stable, collaborative team that can continue providing high-quality care close to home.

"I just love this community," she said. "We're excited about what this means for our patients and for the future of our clinic."

Page 6 - AUGUST 6, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Saskatchewan Invests $160,000 To Sustain Human Trafficking Responder Program In Saskatoon On World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, which took place on Thursday, July 30th, the Government of Saskatchewan is investing $160,000 to help the Saskatoon Police Service sustain its Human Trafficking Responder/Liaison positions. These specialized roles provide coordinated crisis support, advocacy and court navigation for victims and survivors of human trafficking.

"Human trafficking is a serious crime that can leave lasting impacts on victims, survivors and their families," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. "This funding will strengthen frontline supports for victims and survivors, improve coordination among service providers and help prevent further exploitation as we continue working to create safer communities across Saskatchewan."

The Human Trafficking Responder/Liaison positions advance prevention through education, training and awareness activities across communities. Having specialized responders within Victim Services connects victims quickly with traumainformed support and enhances coordination among investigators and community agencies. The focus is both public safety and the safety, dignity and long-term wellbeing of victims.

Community partners welcomed the investment and its role in strengthening supports for victims and survivors of human trafficking.

"At the Saskatoon Police Service, we have seen the critical advantage that support for victims of human trafficking can have," Saskatoon Police Chief Cameron McBride said. "Our team provides specialized support to survivors and works alongside our community partners to develop and deliver trauma-informed training to prosecutors and first responders. This funding announced by the Government of Saskatchewan is going to allow us to continue to have a full response team in place to combat human trafficking."

"It is important to note that these positions, previously funded by the federal government, are invaluable to the work that industry, law enforcement, health care and support services depend on when trying to assist those most vulnerable and exploited by trafficking," Hospitality Saskatchewan President and CEO Jim Bence said. "We commend the provincial governments commitment to sustain the two Human Trafficking Responder/Liaison positions at Saskatoon Police Service. The work they do is an invaluable conduit between those trying to escape their terrible situations and those trying to assist them on their journey to freedom."

"On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, we are deeply grateful to the Government of Saskatchewan for their historic and ongoing leadership," #NotInMyCity Founder Paul Brandt said. "This new investment in specialized Human Trafficking Responder/Liaison positions with the Saskatoon Police Service builds on their earlier support for The Maddison Sessions, airport training and awareness programs and specialized law enforcement training through our alliance with the International Association of Human Trafficking Investigators. Saskatchewan continues to lead with practical, survivor-centred action. #NotInMyCity is honoured to stand with them."

This investment is funded through Saskatchewan's implementation of the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. To date, the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General has committed more than $8 million to programs and initiatives under the Action Plan.

"Through the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, the Government of Canada is supporting Saskatchewan's ongoing efforts to strengthen its response to gender-based violence and human trafficking," The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism) said. "Everyone deserves to know that when they come forward, they will be met with compassion, understanding and the support they need. By investing in comprehensive, trauma-informed services, we are helping victims and survivors of human trafficking navigate their path to safety, healing and justice with dignity."

Saskatchewan invests more than $70 million annually in programs, services and initiatives that address interpersonal violence and abuse. These investments support victims and survivors, expand housing options, raise awareness of human trafficking and improve access to legal and court-based resources across the province.

Organizations across Saskatchewan are seeing the impact of these investments firsthand.

"The support Hope Restored Canada has received through NAP funding, combined with government awareness campaigns, has been transformative," Hope Restored Canada Executive Director Kendra Mazer said. "These investments have helped us expand services, reach more survivors, strengthen community partnerships and increase public understanding of exploitation and trafficking. Together, they are creating pathways to safety, healing, hope and lasting change for families and communities."

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.

Gear Up And Get Ready For Hunting Season!

As we get ready for another hunting season, the Government of Saskatchewan wants to remind hunters that there are a number of ways you can prepare for another season of world-class hunting opportunities across the province.

"Saskatchewan continues to offer outstanding hunting experiences for residents and visitors alike," Environment Minister Darlene Rowden said. "Whether you are a seasoned hunter or heading into the field for the first time, we encourage everyone to plan ahead, know the rules and help conserve Saskatchewan's wildlife for future generations."

Before heading into the field, hunters are encouraged to take the following steps.

Get your copy of the Saskatchewan Hunters Guide - The 2026-27 Saskatchewan Hunters Guide contains important information hunters need before the season begins, including season dates, licence options and fees, wildlife management updates and changes for the upcoming hunting season.

The guide is available for download at saskatchewan.ca/hunting or in print at Government of Saskatchewan field offices with front counter service, select retailers and some provincial parks.

Purchase your hunting licence - Big Game Draw and regular hunting licences are available for purchase beginning August 1.

Licences can be purchased: • Online through the Hunting, Angling and Trapping Licence (HAL) system, 24 hours a day.

• In person at Government of Saskatchewan field offices with front counter service or select provincial park offices.

• In person from any Saskatchewan hunting licence issuer.

• By phone at 1-855-848-4773 (credit card required).

Hunters will need their HAL identification number or another identification number previously added to their HAL account.

With approximately 85 percent of land in southern Saskatchewan privately owned or controlled, hunters are also reminded to obtain permission from the landowner or occupant before entering and hunting on any private land. Permission may be provided in writing, verbally or through signage, and can be requested and granted in person, by telephone or electronically, including by email. Hunters are also encouraged to review the Hunting Permission on Private Land fact sheet before the season.

Hunters can also plan ahead by visiting saskatchewan.ca/hunting, where they will find resources to help prepare for the season, including Hunter Harvest Survey information, Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) surveillance information and testing resources, as well as hunting publications, guides and regulatory information.

Need more information? - For assistance with HAL accounts, visit saskatchewanhal.ca or call 1-888-773-8450.

For more information about hunting in Saskatchewan or to download the 202627 Saskatchewan Hunters Guide, visit saskatchewan.ca/hunting.

Questions about hunting regulations or licensing can be directed to the Ministry of Environment's Inquiry Centre at 1-800-567-4224 or centre.inquiry@gov.sk.ca.

Hunters are reminded to hunt safely, respect landowners and help ensure Saskatchewan's hunting traditions continue for generations to come.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - AUGUST 6, 2026 - Page 7

Seasons Family Medicine Kindergarten Prep Program Preparing to Open in Martensville Helps Young Students Get This Fall Ready for School

Page 8 - AUGUST 6, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

With the start of a new school year just around the corner, the M a r t e n s v i l l e - Wa r m a n Early Years Family Resource Centre is offering a special program aimed at helping children prepare for their first days of kindergarten.

The Kindergarten Prep Program will take place on Thursday, August 13th and Thursday, August 20th, from 9:30am to 11:30am at the M a r t e n s v i l l e - Wa r m a n Early Years Family Resource Centre.

Designed for children heading into kindergarten this fall, the two-day program will give participants an opportunity to practice a variety of skills that can help make the transition into the classroom a little easier.

Each session will begin with parent-and-child paper activities focusing on areas such as the alphabet, numbers, colours, shapes and personal information. The second portion will feature group activities designed to build movement, spatial awareness and independent skills.

The August 13th session will place an emphasis on fine and gross motor skills. Children will practice skills such as holding a pencil and scissors, cutting along lines, completing puzzles, jumping, hopping, skipping and balancing.

On August 20th, activities will focus on language, communication and independence. Children will work on recognizing the alphabet, counting, identifying colours and shapes, classroom manners and learning to spell and write their first and last names.

Participants will also practice everyday school routines, including putting on shoes and jackets, packing a backpack, washing their hands and opening containers.

Families will receive take-home activities so children can continue practicing their new skills outside of the program. Each registered participant will also receive a free backpack containing age-appropriate books and a school-readiness checklist for parents.

Spaces are limited. Families interested in registering can contact the Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre at 639-398-7609 or mweyfrc@ymcasaskatoon.org.

After welcoming her newest addition to the family this spring, Dr. Kira Schaab is preparing to begin an exciting new chapter in her medical career.

Rather than returning to Martensville Collective Health & Wellness (MCHW) following her maternity leave, Dr. Schaab will be opening her own family medicine clinic, Seasons Family Medicine, in Martensville this fall.

Martensville Collective Health & Wellness recently expressed both gratitude and support for Dr. Schaab as she begins her new venture.

“While we are certainly sad to see Dr. Schaab move on, we are grateful for the compassionate care, dedication and kindness she has shared with her patients and our team over the years,” MCHW said in a statement. “We are excited for her as she embarks on this new adventure and know she will continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she cares for.”

Current patients of Dr. Schaab will remain under her care as she transitions to Seasons Family Medicine, and no action is required on their behalf.

Patient medical records have also been transferred to the new clinic.

Beginning August 4th, existing patients will be able to book virtual appointments with Dr. Schaab while preparations continue for the physical clinic to open.

Virtual appointments will be available Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays for mental health concerns, chronic disease follow-ups for stable conditions without new symptoms, medication refills, and lab and imaging reviews.

Appointments can be booked by calling (306) 270-0654 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Virtual appointments will continue to be offered until the clinic opens to the public.

Seasons Family Medicine is expected to officially open in Fall 2026, although an opening date has not yet been announced.

Once the clinic opens, Seasons Family Medicine is also planning to accept approximately 200 to 400 new patients.

According to information provided by the clinic, details regarding the new patient intake will be posted on the Seasons Family Medicine Facebook page several days to a week before the phone lines open for registrations.

New patients will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis and will be able to contact the clinic by phone or visit in person once intake begins.

In an effort to keep the process as fair as possible, Seasons Family Medicine will not maintain a waiting or interest list ahead of the intake period.

Those who are already patients of Dr. Schaab do not need to participate in the new patient intake process and will continue to be her patients unless they choose to find another physician.

The opening of Seasons Family Medicine will provide another healthcare option for residents as Martensville continues to grow and demand for access to primary care remains high.

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