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.
June 24th – Special Council Meeting
July 8th – Committee of The Whole Meeting
July 15th – Regular Council Meeting
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
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.
Sanitary Sewer Flushing Maintenance
The City of Martensville began conducting sanitary sewer flushing on June 9 and will be ongoing daily for approximately 2 weeks. This maintenance will be focused on areas in the south side of the city, as well as other required locations.
This work is a regular maintenance activity that helps prevent blockages and must be conducted to ensure the sewer system is operating efficiently.
It will not affect most homeowners or cause any disruption to service, although there is a possibility that small spills, noise, and odors may occur. We recommend keeping toilet lids closed and drain plugs in all sinks and bathtubs when not in use.
Residential Fire Related Regulations
The City of Martensville currently does not have a fire ban in place – But safety precautions should always be top of mind when it comes to fire. As residents enjoy outdoor activities in their backyard and patios, the Martensville Fire Department has provided some reminders regarding regulations for Residential Outdoor Fire Pits, Barbeques, and Fireworks, to ensure the safety of themselves and others in our community.
Regulations include:
- Fires must be contained within a non-combustible fire box constructed of material such as cement, brick or metal and covered with a heavy gauge screen
- The Martensville Fire Department recommends that fire pits be situated at least 3 meters (9.8 feet) from any combustible materials (ie. fences or buildings)
- Fuel for open-air fires should only consist of charcoal or cut, seasoned wood
- Outdoor fires must be supervised and should be extinguished when finished
- Outdoor fires shouldn’t be lit when the weather conditions are conducive to creative a running fire
- Keep a garden hose or water source accessible to extinguish nearby fire
- No permit is required for private fireworks display, but those fireworks must be set off in a manner that would not create danger or nuisance to neighbors
- No person under the age of 18 shall set off fireworks
- Ensure you have the civic address of your residence prominently displayed in the event of fire or emergency; this is to ensure responders can clearly identify your home
For a complete list of regulations please visit martensville.ca or contact the Fire Department.
School’s Out Summer Camps
School’s out, and the fun is just beginning! Looking for some summer fun once school is out? Our School’s Out Summer Camps offer an exciting mix of fun and adventure! you attend for one week or join us for all four – our camps offer action-packed, hands-on experiences filled with creativity, nature, teamwork, and loads of fun. Camps are appropriate for kids aged 5-10. For more information and to register, visit ‘Program Registrations’ at martensville.ca
To Contact Us About Advertising: advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca Want to Share News?: news@martensvillemessenger.ca
Saskatchewan Pet Expo: June 21-22
The 9th annual Saskatchewan Pet Expo is returning to Martensville! Looking to expand your family? Meet adorable pets from local shelters and rescue organizations who are searching for their forever homes. You might just find your new best friend!
Explore a variety of booths showcasing the latest pet products, from gourmet treats to innovative gadgets. Discover everything you need to pamper your pets. Pets are welcome! (must be leashed)
The event will happen on June 21st & 22nd from 10am - 4pm at the MAP. For more information and ticket prices, visit facebook.com/saskatchewanpetexpo
ParticipACTION Community Challenge: Learn to Play
Join us every Monday and Wednesday in June for ParticipACTION Community Challenge Learn to Play events. Each day, individuals, friends and families can come to one of our facilities and learn about a different sport. This is a FREE program for everyone!
• June 23: Learn to Play Volleyball led by our volleyball instructor, Peyton. Located at the MAP
• June 25: Learn to Play Outdoor Soccer led by Valley United Soccer Club- Chrome Dome Field
• June 30: Canada Day Eve MAP Frenzy- all ages, all sports, all the fun before the Canada Day movie! Located at the MAP
The Community Challenge is a national physical activity and sport initiative that encourages everyone in Canada to get active throughout June in search of Canada’s Most Active Community, which will win $100,000 to support local sport and physical activity initiatives. Learn more at participaction.com
Committee of the Whole Recap June 10
Delegations
Residents from Aspen Parke Estates spoke to council sharing their deep concern on the use of dirt bikes, ATVs, and unlicensed vehicles in the area around the Aspen Parke property. Residents want immediate action taken on this subject, citing speed, dust and the disruption these activities present for area residents. They also presented safety concerns regarding the speed of the vehicles as well. The delegation suggested an immediate ban of these vehicles within Martensville.
Presentations
The RCMP presented their report for May. The RCMP noted increased activity around traffic enforcement with additional resources being allocated toward traffic in summer
Reports from Administration
Corporate Services - Provided the list of properties subject to the Development Incentive Policy. This policy helps support the creation of development ready lots in the City of Martensville.
City Clerk - A report was provided disclosing campaign contributions and expenses from the 2024 Municipal Election.
Infrastructure and Planning - The background for an Accessibility Plan was provided. It relates to the Accessible Saskatchewan Act that is aimed to facilitate initiatives which allow the community to be welcoming and barrier free. Terms of reference for a community-based committee are being developed.
Hiebert Lane Closure - A report was provided on the inspection of the lane and the ability of emergency vehicles to respond and utilize the lane. Administration noted that there were no impediments to emergency vehicles, and no changes to the lane will be implemented.
District Official Community Plan Amendment - This was removed from the agenda. Recreation and Community Services
Great Plains College Lease - A draft lease agreement was presented space at the Civic Centre by Great Plains Regional College.
Council Members Round Table Discussion
Council discussed advocacy topics that have been presented by the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association. Council addressed specific topics that are most important to Martensville and would be sharing this with SUMA for advocacy. Some of these topics included Community Safety, Health and Provincial Funding models.
Saskatchewan Pet Expo Set to Wag Tails in Martensville
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The countdown is officially on! One of the summer’s most anticipated events is just around the corner. The Saskatchewan Pet Expo is taking over the Martensville Athletic Pavilion on June 21 and 22, and it promises to be a tail-wagging good time for the whole family, pets included.
Whether you’re a lifelong animal lover, a proud pet parent, or simply looking for a fun and memorable weekend outing, this event is for you. The expo is a vibrant celebration of pets and the people who love them, showcasing the very best of the province’s petloving community.
Step into a bustling marketplace featuring everything from handmade collars and adorable bandanas to gourmet treats that will leave your furry friend begging for more. Discover locally crafted accessories and stylish pet gear, all while supporting small businesses and talented artisans.
But the Saskatchewan Pet Expo is more than just a shopping spree. It’s an interactive experience designed to entertain, educate, and connect. Meet trusted trainers, groomers, and other pet care professionals who are ready to share advice, answer questions, and help you care for your pet from their wet noses to their wagging tails.
Expect hands-on exhibits, surprise guests, and countless photo-worthy moments. It’s the perfect chance to connect with fellow pet enthusiasts from across the province while enjoying everything we love about pets, community, and summer fun.
This event will be taking place a the Martensville Athletic Pavilion on June 21 and 22 from 10:00am – 4:00pm. Pets are welcome but must remain on leash while attending. So mark your calendars, unleash the excitement, and prepare for a weekend that’s sure to leave everyone happy, two-legged and four-legged alike.
Martensville Residents Voice Concerns Over Off-Road Vehicle
Concerns over the use of dirt bikes, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), and unlicensed vehicles have recently been brought forward to Martensville City Council by residents living near the Lake Vista area. The issues raised include excessive speed, dust, disruptive noise, trespassing, and the overall impact these activities are having on safety and community well-being.
Use Near Lake Vista
Reports have also indicated that some off-road vehicles are being operated in local park spaces, raising additional concerns about public safety and damage to shared green areas.
City officials have acknowledged the seriousness of these concerns and are committed to addressing them. “These concerns have been heard, and we understand how they negatively affect our quality of life,” the City of Martensville shared via social media. “We also understand that recreational vehicle use is a popular and valued activity for many residents, who are respectful of bylaws and ride in areas where it can be enjoyed safely and responsibly.”
In response, the City of Martensville is exploring a range of measures to balance the interests of all residents. Public engagement will play a key role in shaping any future decisions.
Details on upcoming public engagement opportunities will be announced soon. In the meantime, residents are encouraged to review the current All-Terrain Vehicle Bylaw at Martensville.ca.
Congratulations to the Martensville High School Class of 2025
Rhyan Ballard Krihschen Banach
Roger Andreas Jayden Baldwin
Dylan Bekkatla Danyka Biggs
Sophie Barkway
Chloe Bartel
Kaleb Braun Wayne Brown
Halle Block Emerson Bloomquist
Preston Busby Rianne Reizel Cajuguiran
Jilayna Carter Gracie Cawley
Noah Campbell Chase Camsell
Grae Chillog Keria Choponis
Ava Cross Keira Cross
Colton Christianson Gracie Coon
Graeme Culham
Ethan Dean Kolby Desrosiers Hudson Doerksen
Mary Denis Blake Derksen
Jessie Dopko Natalie Elder Autumn Raine Gagnon
Simon Garchinski
Peter Fehr Benjamin Franson
Matthew Hirsekorn Shelby Holowenko
Caton Harrison Carrie Hingston
Logan Isaac Hunter Jaeb
Camryn Hupaelo Kidane Awet Isaac
Kalyn Jungman Taiya Kachur
McKenzie Kobelsky Brooke Kortmeyer
Kate Klassen Cameron Kliewer
Nikya Kuchler Hannah Lamontagne
Jace Lightburn
Kylyssa Lang
Ava McNeil
Robert Mellesmoen
Madison McIntyre
Alia McLeod
Sophie Millard Dion Moerike
Sabahat Mian
Laekyn Michaud
Karson Mueller
Ainsley Murfin
Julian Moldon Sharon Morrison
Ava Murray
Jaxsen Neault
Joshua Olson
Riley Palmer
Kaci Nichols
Sienna Olmstead
Brody Peters
Kohen Pierce
Bowen Protz
Hudson Pilling
Brady Pitka
Isaac Mazza
Taylor Loewen
Aidan Low
Kelsie MacDougald
Noah Marcotte
Kazden Mathies
Ryder Markewich
Ayvee Pozniak Alexis Randall
Deagan Reister
Alexis Samms
Matthew Sawatsky
Briyanna Remenda Kloey Rosciski
Kaden Scott Jaxx Sewell
Kenzie Schachtel Aiden Scott
Alexis Simonot
Erin Simonot
Kaden Shumay
Dennis Slater
Brayden Skene Ethan Skinner-Melling
Rachael Sobchishin
Greyson Sorowski
Rylee Taggart
Grady Stoddart-Reis Zuleha Sulaimaan
Zuhkayda Tarala
Wade Tatchell
Seth Thiessen Rhea Tillmanns
Isabelle Shirran
Evan Skoronski
Katherine Lee Swallow
Braden Toth
POLICE BEAT
Two Charged Following Serious Assault at Martensville Business
An altercation at a business on Centennial Drive North in Martensville has led to multiple arrests and serious charges following an RCMP investigation.
On June 13, 2025, at approximately 9:55 p.m., Warman RCMP responded to a report of an assault with a weapon at a business in the 200 block of Centennial Drive North. Upon arrival, officers located an adult male victim suffering from injuries consistent with stab wounds. Officers administered first aid on scene before EMS transported the victim to hospital with injuries described as serious but non-lifethreatening.
A second victim, a male youth, had also been physically assaulted, though not stabbed, and had already been taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
According to the initial investigation, the incident was not random. Two suspects, an adult male and a male youth, allegedly entered the business and a physical altercation occurred between them and the two victims.
The male youth suspect was arrested by RCMP at the hospital, where he was receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the altercation. The adult male suspect was later arrested at a residence in Martensville.
A third male youth was arrested at a separate gathering in Martensville in connection with the incident, but has since been released without charges.
As a result of the ongoing investigation, a 17-year-old male from Martensville has been charged with the following offences:
• Two counts of aggravated assault (Section 268(2), Criminal Code)
• Two counts of assault with a weapon (Section 267(a), Criminal Code)
• One count of assault causing bodily harm (Section 267(b), Criminal Code)
• One count of carrying a weapon for a dangerous purpose (Section 88(1), Criminal Code)
• One count of mischief under $5,000 (Section 430(4), Criminal Code)
Due to the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, the accused cannot be publicly identified. He is scheduled to appear in Saskatoon Provincial Court on June 16, 2025 (Information #Y409114).
Details regarding charges against the adult male suspect have not yet been released, as court information has not been sworn at this time.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Warman RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267). Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Warman RCMP Seek Public’s Help in Returning Recovered Jewellery and Coin Collection
Do you recognize these items? They may be someone’s souvenirs from their travels, part of someone’s prized collection, or even heirlooms passed down from generation to generation. Whatever they may be, they hold value to someone, and Warman RCMP is looking for help in getting these recovered items returned to their rightful owner.
During a December 2023 investigation, Warman RCMP seized a number of items, including drug paraphernalia and some unique collectables. The collectable items include:
• A collection of Canadian and foreign coins, including 100th anniversary and special edition coins. Some coins appear to date back as far as 1910.
• A gold pocket watch, which appears to be antique.
• An insect brooch.
• A variety of different rings of different shapes, sizes, and materials. Some of the rings include gemstones.
“Some of the rings have an inscription on them, allowing us to confirm ownership when someone comes forward to claim them,” says Warman RCMP S/Sgt. Jason Teniuk.
Warman RCMP have tried to find the owner or owners as part of the investigation and are now asking members of the public for assistance. Investigators believe the items likely originated in central Saskatchewan.
“We all have possessions that mean a lot to us, and for someone, these items might hold that same significance,” S/Sgt. Teniuk says. “Please take a moment to look at the photos, and if you recognize anything, let us know. If you see this on social media, please share it.”
If you recognize the items in the photo, please contact Warman RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers. com.
BELOW & RIGHT: Items seized by Warman RCMP during a December 2023 investigation. (RCMP)
Saskatchewan RCMP: Wanted Persons
The following offenders are wanted by the Saskatchewan RCMP. These are individuals with active warrants who were last known to be living in Saskatchewan: These offenders 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 persons wanted by the Saskatchewan RCMP.
Offenders 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 are not considered in the scoring process. The intent of releasing this list of wanted offenders is to encourage tips and information from the public to support RCMP investigations and lead to the arrest of these individuals. This list will be updated and distributed monthly.
Two wanted offenders from this list have been arrested in the last month:
• Donnie Benjamin Sewap was arrested by Warman RCMP on June 6. He appeared in Saskatoon Provincial Court on June 9 (Information #90515529).
• As previously reported, Coutts RCMP arrested Matthew Heidt in Coutts, Alberta.
The Saskatchewan RCMP routinely reviews and evaluates offenders included on this wanted list. As a result of a review at the beginning of June, five offenders have been added to the list based on their current Crime Severity Index scores. Do not attempt to contact, approach or apprehend these individuals on your own. If you recognize any of these offenders and have information regarding their whereabouts, activities or associations, call 310-RCMP (7257) or 911 in an emergency.
LEFT: A member of the Corman Park
captured the moment they made a traffic stop after observing a vehicle heading eastbound on Highway 16 between Boychuk Drive and Zimmerman Road traveling at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was recorded at 199km/hr on Laser. The officer conducted a traffic stop and the driver was issued a $1459 citation, a 30-day impound and a 7-day license suspension. The photo was shared via social media, with CPPS noting that this driver was “lucky to be alive” after driving so fast. Please drive responsibly and ensure that everyone gets home safe. (Corman Park Police Service)
Police Service
Saskatchewan's Surgical Investment Delivers More Surgeries and Reduces Wait Times
There were 100,406 surgeries and procedures performed between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. The health system also exceeded its target of completing 90 per cent of surgeries within eight months, with nearly 92 per cent completed within that timeframe.
“Saskatchewan’s health care system is delivering on the commitment to improve access to surgical care through investments and setting aggressive targets,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Annual budget investments have helped to stabilize system capacity and lay the groundwork for even greater progress in the years ahead. The surgical program is now well-positioned to achieve a six-month wait time target for most surgeries set for 2025–26. We are thankful to our surgical teams for their hard work and dedication to benefit patients.”
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) focused on meeting the needs of longest-waiting patients. The list for patients waiting longer than 24 months for their procedures is nearly eliminated. The number of people waiting longer than 12 months has decreased by 24 per cent over the past year.
As part of the 2025-26 Provincial Budget, the Government of Saskatchewan is investing an additional $15.1 million in surgical services to help expand capacity, encourage innovation and reduce wait times for patients.
This includes:
• $12.9 million to increase surgical volumes and capacity in 2025-26;
• $2 million in Saskatchewan’s robot-assisted surgery program to support expansion to Regina Pasqua Hospital and perform up to 600 more robot-assisted procedures; and
• $1 million for surgical service enhancements to support coordination of care for back surgery and pain management for hospitalized patients.
The plan to increase surgical volumes will span the next four years with the province committed to delivering 450,000 surgeries to significantly reduce the number of patients waiting for surgery. The number of procedures now include surgical interventions performed outside of operating rooms, such as cardiac catheterization or interventional radiology which are done in specially equipped treatment rooms and better reflects the actual number of surgical procedures being performed in the province.
“As we continue to advance surgical care in Saskatchewan, we are focused on improving access and reducing wait times, all while maintaining the highest standards of quality,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Provincial Head of Surgery Dr. Michael Kelly said. “This progress is made possible by the exceptional commitment of our health care providers and physicians who work tirelessly every day to provide timely, high-quality care to patients across the province.”
Expanding services for back surgery and pain management presents a valuable opportunity to reduce wait times. Strategic investment in these high-demand areas will boost capacity, improve access and lead to better health outcomes for patients.
Surgical demand continues to rise, with bookings increasing by four per cent annually since 2022–23, up from 1.5 per cent before the pandemic. Initiatives like the new Breast Health Centre are helping to improve coordination and speed up access to cancer care.
"By streamlining processes and focusing on patient-centered care, we have improved access and reduced the length of time all patients must wait for surgery,” SHA Chief Operating Officer Derek Miller said. “These enhancements are helping patients get the care they need sooner and strengthening the surgical system for the future."
Recruitment and retention efforts continue to be a priority. The government is actively investing in Saskatchewan’s dedicated surgical teams and working to attract additional health professionals to support the growing surgical program. Surgical leaders continue to explore all possible opportunities to recruit anesthesiologists, with recent success from efforts both locally and internationally.
To learn more about Saskatchewan's Surgical Performance and Wait Times, visit: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/surgery/ surgical-performance-and-wait-times.
Saskatchewan Housing Starts to See Remarkable 108.6 Per Cent Growth
Figures Show Strong Gains, Ranking Province First in the Nation
On Monday, June 16th, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation released new data showing urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 108.6 per cent in the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This places the province 1st in the nation for growth in this area.
"Saskatchewan's economy continues to show positive momentum and investor confidence," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "More homes are being built, and more people are living and working across the province than ever before."
In May 2025, urban housing starts across the province increased by 205.9 per cent over May 2024, placing Saskatchewan 2nd among the provinces for year-over-year growth.
Within that total, housing starts on single family homes were up 63.7 per cent, while multi-unit residential construction increased by 617.9 per cent compared to May 2024.
Housing starts refers to the number of housing projects that started that month. The provincial economy continues to see substantial growth. Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2024 real GDP reached an all-time high of $80.5 billion, increasing by $2.6 billion, or 3.4 per cent. This ranks Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth, and above the national average of 1.6 per cent. Private capital investment in Saskatchewan increased last year by 17.3 per cent to $14.7 billion, ranking first among provinces. Private capital investment is projected to reach $16.2 billion in 2025, an increase of 10.1 per cent over 2024. This is the second highest anticipated percentage increase among the provinces.
Last year, the Government of Saskatchewan unveiled its new Securing the Next Decade of Growth - Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy. This strategy, combined with Saskatchewan's trade and investment website, InvestSK.ca, contains helpful information for potential markets and solidifies the province as the best place to do business in Canada.
For more information, visit: InvestSK.ca.
Provincial Fire Ban Lifted
Due to recent rainfall and cooler weather, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is rescinding the provincial fire ban effective at 5 p.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025.
The fire ban will be lifted on all Crown lands, provincial parks, and provincial recreation sites located north of the provincial forest boundary up to the Churchill River, along with the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District.
The public is reminded that provincial parks, municipalities and R.M.s may still have their own local fire ban, restriction or advisory in place. A list of fire restrictions in provincial parks and recreation sites can be found here and the SPSA interactive fire ban map can be found here.
Municipalities and provincial parks should continue to monitor local conditions and implement fire bans or burning restrictions as required.
The latest fire risk maps, fire prevention tips, an interactive fire ban map and frequently asked questions can be found at saskpublicsafety.ca.
Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660 or dial 9-1-1.
Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board Crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety.
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.
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) is a proud tradition that marks the culmination of a year’s hard work, dedication, and achievement for local Air Cadets. Held each June, the ACR serves as the final parade of the training year, offering cadets the chance to demonstrate their skills, celebrate their progress, and be recognized for outstanding performance. For the youth involved, it’s not just a ceremony, it’s a meaningful moment that brings a deep sense of accomplishment.
“Our Annual Ceremonial Review is our final parade of our training year, which runs from early September to approximately mid-June. It is a culmination of all our training and allows us to recognize some of our outstanding performers with individual awards,” Colin Kunkel, Civilian Instructor with 574 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron, explained. “I believe it gives the cadets a sense of accomplishment after a year filled with learning various things throughout the year, including drill, aviation related subjects and citizenship opportunities in the community.
The ACR isn’t just for the cadets, it’s also a celebration shared with families, friends, and the broader community. This year’s Reviewing Officer was Martensville Fire Chief Dean Brooman, whose participation highlighted the strong community support behind the program.
The Air Cadet program is open to youth ages 12 to 18 and is designed to promote leadership, citizenship, and an interest in aviation and the Canadian Forces. Throughout the year, cadets participate in a variety of hands-on activities, including Air Skills Day, where they learn how airports operate, fly mini-drones, and build bottle rockets.
Cadets are also actively involved in the community, marching in the Buster Days Parade and volunteering their time by packing Christmas hampers with the Martensville Fire Department. They even get the chance to fly in single-engine aircraft and gliders, gaining real-world aviation experience not often available to youth.
Kunkel noted that the Familiarization Flying Day that was held in May was one of the main highlights from the past season. “Not only did the cadets get to go flying, but they also had the opportunity to get some hands-on experience with airport fire trucks at the Saskatoon Airport, along with other aviation related tours.”
Another highlight was participating in a Survival Weekend with two other Air Cadet squadrons, where cadets learned how to make shelters and other skills they might need if they became lost in the woods.
This year, the 574 Dakota Squadron had nearly 50 cadets, with participation steadily increasing year over year. Youth from Martensville, Warman, and surrounding areas including Borden are all represented, reflecting the broad appeal and reach of the program.
“There are so many benefits to the program, namely learning about yourself and what you can accomplish through hard work,” Kunkel said. “Cadets learn about responsibility when it comes to their uniform and when they advance in rank. They learn time management and leadership skills throughout the year, and they just learn how to be good citizens.”
Kunkel also stated that the experience within the Cadet program is beneficial to include on a resume, as the skills learned can serve them well out in the real world, and participants often make lasting friendships through the program.
The program is free to join and welcomes all youth aged 12 to 18. Those interested can find more information and apply through the squadron’s website at www.574dakota.ca.
“The Cadet program is a hidden gem and by far the best youth organization in Canada,” Kunkel said, adding that many notable Canadians such as Chris Hadfield, current Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen, the first female Snowbird pilot Maryse Carmichael, and former Saskatchewan Lt. Governor Gordon Barnhart, all participated in the Air Cadet Program.
“I have many friends who have and still serve in the RCAF and they always say they wouldn’t be where they are without their experience in the Cadet program.”
With a legacy of producing confident, capable, and community-minded young people, the Air Cadet program continues to make a powerful difference in the lives of Saskatchewan youth.
ABOVE: Martensville Fire Chief Dean Brooman attended
