Second Chances Thrift Store Off to Strong Start in Martensville
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Second Chances Thrift Store is settling into its first weeks of operation in Martensville, with strong community support helping the new business quickly establish itself as both a shopping destination and a space focused on creating opportunities for local youth.
The store, located at 301 Centennial Drive Unit #1A, opened on February 9th and is owned and operated by The Generation Love Project, a non-profit organization that provides supports, job training, and employment placement for youth facing barriers to employment, including youth with disabilities. The thrift store serves as an extension of the organization’s job training program, offering participants hands-on work experience in a retail environment while helping them develop workplace skills and confidence.
Since opening, community response has been positive, with shoppers welcoming the new business and expressing support for its long-term presence in Martensville.
While operators hope to see continued growth in customer traffic; particularly during evening hours; the first week brought a strong turnout and an overwhelming response in the form of donations.
SaskPower Warns Customers of Scam Email Requesting Banking Information
session of the season with a Glow Skate theme at the Martensville Sports Centre! Dress in bright colours, neon, or fun accessories and enjoy music and glow sticks on the ice. We’ll provide the atmosphere—you bring your skates and enjoy one last skate together before the season wraps up!
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council reviewed a number of planning, infrastructure, and community-focused items during their February 17 Regular Council Meeting, with several motions returning from previous discussions alongside new reports and departmental updates.
Among the items considered were motions previously discussed by Council, including the proposed annexation of Crown-owned lands west of Centennial Drive South and the subdivision of land within Meadows Business Park Phase II on 8th Street South. Administration brought forward the annexation proposal as part of ongoing efforts to support long-term infrastructure planning and improve municipal boundary alignment. The proposed subdivision would create eight new light industrial and service commercial lots, with servicing extended from existing municipal water and sanitary sewer infrastructure.
Council also reviewed the City’s participation in the province’s upcoming recycling program, SK Recycles, which will replace the existing Multi-Material Stewardship Western (MMSW) program by the end of 2027 as part of new Extended Producer Responsibility regulations. Municipalities across Saskatchewan are required to select a participation model in early 2026 to ensure continued recycling service.
Administration recommended the Program-Led Model, under which SK Recycles would assume responsibility for program delivery, collection, and associated financial risks beginning in 2028. The alternative Community-Led Model would see municipalities retain operational control but also carry administrative responsibilities and potential financial risks related to contamination penalties and market fluctuations.
Administration noted that while municipalities are required to make a selection, some operational details of the new provincial program have yet to be finalized.
Community engagement surrounding potential improvements to the City’s dog park also returned to Council for discussion. Following a previous delegation outlining concerns and suggested enhancements, administration sought direction on whether to proceed with broader public engagement to gather feedback on topics such as signage, safety, bicycle use, and fencing, or to maintain the current approach. The engagement process is not currently included in the 2026 work plan and could impact timelines for other planned projects.
Council also reviewed a request from the Saskatoon and Area Multiple Myeloma Support Group to light the Martensville Recreation Centre in red from March 6 to 8 as part of a national awareness initiative. While the request fell outside existing lighting policies, it was brought forward for Council’s consideration.
Departmental reports highlighted ongoing work across the organization. Infrastructure and Operations reported continued seasonal maintenance of water and sewer systems while preparing for the annual flowerpot program. Recreation and Planning reported continued growth in programming, noting that the Martensville Recreation Centre welcomed more than 100,000 visitors in 2025, alongside recent cultural programming and upcoming events including the Multi-Sport Sampler and Winter Fun Fest.
development along Centennial Drive, updates to the Economic Development Business Incentive Bylaw, and participation in an upcoming Business View Magazine feature highlighting community achievements. Planning and Bylaw Enforcement reported that 228 development permits were issued in 2025, representing nearly $71 million in construction value, along with 416 business licences issued throughout the year. Ongoing planning work includes the Trilogy Ranch and Lake Vista concept plans, with further updates expected in early spring. Council will meet again on March 3 at 5:00pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. More information can be found at Martensville.ca.
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“I would like to see it a bit busier, but I think that is just a matter of the community knowing we are here and open,” Jessica Mills, owner and CEO of The Generation Love Project, stated. “Those who have come in have been excited for us to be there, welcomed us, and wished us luck hoping we will stay in the community long term and be able to expand.”
Second Chances Thrift Store focuses primarily on clothing, offering low everyday pricing alongside a small boutique section featuring new or brand-name pieces at affordable prices. A limited selection of household and miscellaneous items is also available, with the goal of creating a welcoming and enjoyable shopping experience while allowing customers to find quality items at accessible prices.
By providing affordable shopping while creating meaningful opportunities for youth, Second Chances Thrift Store fills a unique role in Martensville, serving residents from Martensville, Warman, and the surrounding area while working toward positive outcomes for both shoppers and young people preparing for future employment.
The store is currently seeking additional volunteers who are willing to take on more independent roles, including assisting with daily operations and helping support and supervise youth working in the store.
For more information, contact (306) 665-7453 or thegenerationloveproject@ gmail.com. Residents can also follow Second Chances Thrift Store on social media for updates.
SaskPower is alerting customers to a scam email currently circulating that falsely claims to be from the utility and requests banking or credit card information as part of a security update. SaskPower advises that these messages are not legitimate and reminds customers that they do not request sensitive financial information through email. Anyone who may have shared personal or financial information is encouraged to contact their bank or credit card issuer immediately. Additional information on recognizing and preventing scams can be found at saskpower.com/scams.
Martensville Residents
Embrace Family Day Fun at Annual Winter FunFest
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger Residents of all ages came together to celebrate the season during Martensville’s annual Winter FunFest, with a full day of activities encouraging the community to get outdoors and enjoy winter close to home.
The event brought the community together to take part in a variety of winter-themed activities designed to promote recreation, connection, and community spirit. Attendance remained strong throughout the day as residents took advantage of the opportunity to participate in outdoor fun and local programming.
Winter FunFest featured a range of activities aimed at all age groups, giving families the chance to spend time together while enjoying the city’s parks and recreational spaces. Activities included sleigh rides, hot chocolate, hot dogs, bounce houses, airbrush tattoos, soap carving, schlocky, and a variety of sports activities inside the facility, including basketball, pickleball, volleyball, and toddler play areas.
“Thank you to everyone that came out to celebrate Winter FunFest, and a big thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible,” Jamie McCulloch, City of Martensville Recreation Program Coordinator II, stated.
Mark Your Calendars for an
Weekend of Hockey on the Pond
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger Martensville’s Party on the Pond, one of the year’s biggest
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saskpartyonthepond.com/registration.
Party on the Pond is
SPORTS
Team McDonald Captures Title at Martensville International
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Team McDonald claimed the championship title at the Martensville International Men’s Bonspiel this weekend, closing out a competitive three days of curling at the Martensville Curling Club.
The event, held from February 13 to 16, featured ten teams competing in a round-robin pool format for a total purse of $12,500. Teams participating in this year’s event included Derksen, Gushue, Hebert, Kleiter, McDonald, McEwen, Meachem, Moser, Snow, and Tuma, bringing together strong competition from across Saskatchewan and beyond.
Games began Friday afternoon and continued throughout the weekend, with draws taking place Friday evening and throughout Saturday before playoff action wrapped up on Sunday. Fans packed the rink throughout the event, creating an energetic atmosphere as spectators took in high-level curling action.
Sunday’s playoff round opened with Team Tuma of Minnesota facing Saskatoon’s Team Kleiter, with Team Tuma advancing following the morning matchup. The noon draws saw Saskatoon’s Team McEwen take on Team Tuma, while Team Gushue of Newfoundland/ Labrador faced Winnipeg’s Team McDonald in the other semifinal.
The final came down to Team McEwen and Team McDonald in a closely contested match. In the end, Team McDonald secured the victory with a 4–3 win to take home the Martensville International title.
Organizers extended thanks to the teams, volunteers, spectators, and event organizers who contributed to the success of the weekend, helping make the Martensville International another well-attended and competitive event.
Martensville Junior Boys Capture Gold in Hard-Fought Final
The Martensville High School junior boys basketball team brought home gold on Thursday, February 12, following a hard-fought 61–44 victory in a back-andforth championship game.
Both teams battled throughout the contest, with momentum shifting multiple times as players pushed the pace on both ends of the court. The game remained competitive into the later stages, with Martensville pulling ahead down the stretch to secure the win.
The championship matchup drew a packed gymnasium, with strong support from students, families, and community members creating an energetic atmosphere for the final. The crowd’s energy helped fuel both teams as they competed for the gold medal.
RIGHT & BELOW: The Martensville High School Jr Boys Basketball team won the gold medal on Thursday, Feb. 12.
Robot Assisted Surgeries Strengthening Patient Care
"With
patients will have access to minimally invasive surgical procedures that result in quicker recoveries close to home," Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. "I
a sincere thank you to our surgeons and health care teams for continuing to work together to help expand surgical access in our province.”
Since the fourth robotic system was launched in December 2025, nearly 20 surgeries have been performed at RUH in Saskatoon using the da Vinci Surgical System, including colorectal (partial or full removal of the colon) and hepatobiliary (affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts and pancreas) surgeries.
"The surgical robot at Royal University Hospital represents a major advancement in surgical innovation for Saskatchewan, enabling safer, more precise procedures and faster, more effective recovery for certain patients," Saskatchewan Health Authority Provincial Head of Surgery Dr. Michael Kelly said. "Robotic-assisted surgery strengthens surgical capacity, expands access across the province and reinforces Saskatchewan's leadership in advanced surgical care. With four robotic systems now in operation, three in Saskatoon and one in Regina, this cutting-edge technology is helping attract and recruit highly skilled surgeons and other team members. This will reinforce the province's surgical workforce and ability to deliver cutting-edge care."
In the past 12 months, 438 robot-assisted procedures have been performed in Saskatoon and 58 in Regina, which includes everything from common general surgeries, such as hernia repair, to specialized cancer treatment procedures for both male and female reproductive organs, such as proctectomies (prostate removal) and hysterectomies (uterus removal).
The Royal University Hospital Foundation contributed $150,000 to purchase the specialized patient bed required for the new surgical system at RUH.
"We would like to thank the Royal University Hospital Foundation (RUHF) and donors for purchasing advanced medical equipment to support our new surgical system," Cockrill said. "The RUHF is a valued partner in our shared mission to deliver high-quality care to patients in our province."
Since 2025, Saskatchewan has invested $2 million annually in ongoing funding to continue expanding the provincial surgical robotics program.
"Health care is collaborative, and we are excited to partner with the SHA and Ministry of Health on this initiative," RUH Foundation CEO Jennifer Molloy said. "Our donors have given the RUH surgical team access to this innovative tool, and we are so grateful to them for supporting this advanced technology that raises health care standards for the people of Saskatchewan."
Government Provides $1.46 Million for Gender Based Violence Programming
Government Provides $1.46 Million for Gender-Based Violence Programming
On February 17th, government is announcing approximately $1.46 million in additional funding through the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence. This new funding will support 10 organizations and programs across the province.
"The participating agencies are guiding and fostering change as they build tools and programs to proactively address gender-based violence," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod, K.C. said. "I am grateful to all these partner organizations for collaborating with us on this important project and for the work they do to create a safe future for women and girls in Saskatchewan."
The funding is being provided based on each organization's alignment with the five pillars of the National Action Plan: foundational knowledge; support for survivors and their families; prevention; responsive justice system; and Indigenous-led approaches; and social infrastructure and enabling environment.
“Addressing gender-based violence requires sustained action, strong partnerships, and targeted investments such as the one we are announcing today,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Alana Ross said. "The funding will support prevention programs that help stop violence before it starts and expand services for people who experience violence. This is practical support that helps women, children and families live safe, healthy, and prosperous lives."
This funding will be provided in 2026 and 2027 to the following communitybased partners and agencies to develop tools to support outreach, programming and advocacy: Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) ($280,000); Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) ($250,000); Anchor & Thread Community Services Inc. ($100,000); Regina Transition House ($100,000); United Way of Regina ($50,000); Coalition of Regional Sexual Assault Centres Inc. ($50,000); Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) ($248,000); Rapport Clinical Consulting Group ($140,000); Buffalo Narrows Friendship Centre ($192,000); and Muskoday First Nation ($47,000).
“A variety of innovative initiatives have been implemented in Saskatchewan as a result of the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence," Provincial Association of Transition Houses and Services of Saskatchewan (PATHS) Dr. Crystal Giesbrecht said. "This funding has increased the capacity of essential services and enabled the development of new strategies to address GBV. PATHS and our member agencies are proud to deliver several of these projects and look forward to continued partnership and progress to end GBV.”
This year, the Government of Saskatchewan is dedicating approximately $33.5 million to partners that facilitate interpersonal violence programs and services through the justice system. This includes $14.2 million for community-based partners, annualized funding for second-stage shelters, and additional funding for Victims Services and other important supports.
“Preventing and addressing gender-based violence requires a collective effort to build safe, inclusive communities where everyone can thrive," Federal Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism) Rechie Valdez said. "Through the National Action Plan to End Gender-based Violence, the federal government is working with Saskatchewan community partners, and local organizations to provide tailored support that reflects the unique needs of the province and the service providers working on the ground. By joining forces and supporting prevention-focused, community-led initiatives, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of people across Saskatchewan and help build a stronger, more resilient country for all.”
In total, Saskatchewan has invested approximately $7 million dollars of National Action plan funding into gender-based violence programming and supports through the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General.
Saskatoon Police Warn
The Saskatoon Police Service Economic Crime Section is alerting the public to a series of reports regarding fraudulent calls otherwise known as the Family/Grandparent Emergency Scam.
In recent days, police have received reports of fraudsters actively targeting victims in Saskatoon through the Family/Grandparent Emergency Scam. During these scams fraudsters contact the victims by telephone and claim to be a family member, often a grandchild, in an emergency as a result of a traffic collision or drug possession. Payment is then demanded in cash or cryptocurrency for bail and legal fees.
Remember! Any legitimate authority would never demand payment as cash or cryptocurrency over the phone. - The fraudsters often instruct the victims to lie to their financial institution to withdraw funds. They may also falsely state that a nondissemination order (gag order) is in place preventing discussing the matter with anyone else.
Don’t panic! Always call family, friends, and/or the authority in question directly to verify the information and fact check the call. -Police are encouraging families and friend groups that consist of older and/or vulnerable adults to openly discuss the Family/Grandparent Emergency Scam to prevent continued victimization in the community. If you have received a suspicious call and suspect fraud but have not been victimized, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. If you have become the victim of fraud, contact your local police or report it to the Saskatoon Police Service by calling 306-975-8300; in an emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Background: The Family/Grandparent Emergency Scam involves a potential victim, often an older and/or vulnerable adult, receiving a phone call from someone claiming to be a family member in an emergency and requiring money for various purposes. The fraudsters may also work in tandem and connect the victim to another person claiming to be a police officer, lawyer, doctor, or representative of another profession. The payment is often requested as cash, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. This is a scam! Any legitimate authority would never make such requests.
If you receive a suspicious phone call, ask important questions of the caller to verify their identity but refrain from offering additional details yourself. Alternatively, hang up and call that family member directly to verify their location and well-being and/ or connect with other relatives to fact check the call. If the caller is claiming to be law enforcement or a representative of another profession, hang up and call that authority directly to verify the information. Fraudsters leverage urgency and panic to coerce the victim into complying with their requests and demands. Always use extreme caution, especially when being asked to send any form of currency.
Public of Family/Grandparent Emergency Scam Saskatchewan RCMP: Wanted Persons
The following individuals are wanted by the Saskatchewan RCMP. They are people with active warrants who were last known to be living in Saskatchewan. They have been selected to appear on this list based on a review of their current criminal charges and the potential harm they present to communities in Saskatchewan.
This is not a complete list of all individuals wanted by the Saskatchewan RCMP. Those appearing on this list are determined by a data-driven scoring system using the Crime Severity Index, a Statistics Canada measurement that looks at both the number and the relative severity of crimes. Factors such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, sexuality or disability of an offender are not considered in the scoring process.
The intent of releasing this list is to encourage tips and information from the public to support Saskatchewan RCMP investigations and to lead to the arrest of these individuals. This list is updated and distributed monthly.
Do not attempt to contact, approach or apprehend any wanted persons on your own. If you recognize any of these individuals and have information regarding their whereabouts, activities or associations, call 310-RCMP (310-7257) or 911 in an emergency.
For more information about these individuals, visit https://rcmp.ca/en/ saskatchewan/news/2026/02/4343801.
POLICE BEAT
Saskatoon
Police Issue Public
Advisory Following Release of Man with Prior Voyeurism Convictions
The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) is advising the public of the upcoming release of a man previously convicted of multiple voyeurism-related offences.
Kyle Ronald Hameluck, born November 12, 1988, is scheduled to be released from the Saskatoon Provincial Correctional Centre on February 14, 2026, and is expected to reside in Saskatoon. Police say court-imposed conditions will be in place upon his release.
According to SPS, the public advisory has been issued out of concern for the potential risk of reoffending. Hameluck was previously convicted in relation to 70 incidents involving voyeurism, indecent acts, and trespassing at night.
Hameluck is described as approximately 5’10” tall, weighing 155 pounds, with brown hair that is balding and green eyes. Police note he has several tattoos of mushrooms and one depicting railroad tracks. Court-imposed conditions include remaining inside an approved residence between the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., abstaining from the possession of non-prescribed drugs, and having no direct or indirect contact with past victims. He is also prohibited from possessing or using cell phones or digital devices capable of taking photographs or videos. Police advise that anyone who becomes aware of potential breaches of these conditions should not approach the individual and instead contact the Saskatoon Police Service at 306-975-8300. In an emergency, call 911.
Saskatchewan RCMP Warn Residents of Email Ticket Scam
Saskatchewan RCMP are warning the public of an ongoing email scam with incidents reported across the province.
On February 13, 2026, Saskatchewan RCMP received multiple reports of individuals receiving an email containing a fraudulent ticket. The scammer represents themselves as the Saskatchewan Fine Collection Branch and indicates that the recipient has received a Provincial Violation Ticket. The fraudulent tickets include:
• a ticket number
• fine amount to pay
• due date
• payment instructions
• a link to unsubscribe from emails
• contact information
• Provincial Court Services copyright
The contact information listed is the accurate information for the Saskatchewan Fine Collection Branch, however the ticket information and payment link are fraudulent. Do not click the link or provide payment.
The Saskatchewan RCMP encourages the public to protect themselves from email scams by:
• checking the sender for misspellings or unusual email addresses
• never clicking on links from unknown senders
• looking for red flags such as urgent language or generic greetings
If you receive an email similar to this, report it to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Saskatchewan RCMP can be contacted by calling 310RCMP. 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/
Watrous Man Charged
Following Saskatchewan ICE Unit Investigation
A 68-year-old Watrous man is facing child exploitation-related charges following an investigation by the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit.
On December 10, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at a residence in Watrous, Saskatchewan. Electronic devices were examined at the scene and seized for further investigation.
As a result of the investigation, Myles Deitner, 68, was charged on February 10, 2026 with two counts of possession of child sexual abuse and exploitation material. Deitner was released on court-imposed conditions. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. in Saskatoon Provincial Court.
The Saskatchewan ICE Unit is comprised of investigators from the RCMP, Regina Police Service, and Saskatoon Police Service. The unit’s mandate is to investigate crimes involving the online abuse and exploitation of children.