June 1, 2023 Digital Issue

Partners Celebrate Construction of the Martensville Community Recreation Centre with Sod-Turning Event

City of Martensville Council, along with Indigenous leaders and government officials, gathered today to celebrate construction, which started early in 2023, on the new Martensville Community Recreation Centre. The Recreation Centre is a $44.5 million facility that will provide space for recreation, community and cultural gatherings in the region.

The Government of Canada is investing up to $17,817,302 and the Government of Saskatchewan is investing up to $14,846,266 toward the City’s new Community Recreation Centre project. The City is responsible for the remainder and any additional project costs.

“Modern recreational infrastructure is essential to keeping our communities vibrant,” said the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities. “The Martensville Community Recreation Centre will offer residents a place to be active and create memories for generations to come. The beginning of construction on this project is great news for all community members.”

“The Government of Saskatchewan is helping make this important project become a reality for the region by investing more than $14.8 million toward the City of Martensville’s Community Recreation Centre,” said the Honourable Don McMorris, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Government Relations. “The completed facility will provide greater opportunities for sports, culture and other gatherings – events that provide economic activity and bring people together, build fond memories and ultimately strengthen the heart of a community.”

“It’s thanks for our partners in the federal and provincial government, our donors, and the volunteers at the Martensville Community Recreation Project, and all of the construction workers that we are here today watching this wonderful recreation facility unfold,” said Kent Muench, Mayor of the City of Martensville. “The Centre will provide space for people in our region to gather, will boost our economy through the ability to host large sporting events, and will bring jobs to the region during construction as well as once it is operational.”

The Centre is located within Trilogy Ranch, a new major 680-acre residential and commercial development located just west of Highway 12 and bordering the City’s current west boundary, on 6.68 acres of land donated by Canwest and North Prairie Developments in 2020.

John Williams, Canwest President and CEO, and his family donated the land for the facility, valued at $3 million.

“We have been involved with the City of Martensville for close to 30 years,” said Williams. “This donation is our way to give back to the community we have been part of, as a business partner. We certainly saw the need for a much larger scale recreation facility. Communities like Martensville thrive when everyone can work together for a common goal.”

Wright Construction and aodbt Architects are managing all aspects of the design and construction of the facility.

“Wright Construction is honored to provide construction services for the Martensville Community Recreation Centre. We are excited about the opportunities a facility like this will provide for the City of Martensville and will continue to work diligently with our design partners to finalize design and construction,” said Lorne Wright.

In December 2022, the Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP), together with the City of Martensville, launched the Lace ‘Em Up Campaign. The campaign goal of $4 million was set to complete the MCRP’s community fundraising goal.

Jesse Reis, Ahlana Ehalt, and Bartt Timms of the MCRP thanked donors for their generous contributions, and everyone who has volunteered, supported the groups’ fund-raising events, and committed funds to the project.

“The sod turning is a step closer to more opportunities for our community,” said Reis. “This journey was always about opportunity and bringing people together. We reflect on all the people and businesses that have graciously given, whether it be monetary or the gift of their time. Every dollar and every second given to this project, our group is humbled by the support.”

There is still time to donate. The MCRP continues to accept donations naming rights for various facility amenities. There are many ways to give to the campaign. Pledges can be made over five years and can include gifts of appreciated securities. For example, for a gift of only $17 per month for five years, your name can be included on the facility’s donor wall. All donations received may qualify for a charitable tax receipt.

Donations can be made at www.mcrp.ca/donate or dropped off at City Hall. For more information on the Centre, visit Martensville.ca.

Martensville Youth Connection Sees Support From Community in Fundraiser BBQ

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

This weekend a BBQ was held to help raise money to support the Martensville Youth Connection thanks to support from Element Yard Care and Fern’s Grocery & Emma Lake Pizza, which drew a big crowd to enjoy the tasty treats and raised an incredible $775.50 to support the youth programming.

“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible community we are privileged to be a part of. Martensville is truly a unique and remarkable place, as exemplified by the events that unfolded this past weekend,” MYC commented via social media, noting the various other fundraisers that also took place over the weekend.

LEFT & RIGHT: Venture Heights School hosted their annual Track & Field Day on Friday, May 26th where students participated in a variety of events.

This week, Martensville Youth Connection has a busy week with conversations taking place around consent, selfcare and self-esteem, flag football, a visit to Paws Republic, playing games, and much more.

Learn more about MYC and the incredible programing they provide for youth in the community by visiting them on Facebook or going to https:// possibilitiesrecovery.ca/ myc-youth-program.

ABOVE: A sod-turning ceremony, originally planned to take place at the construction site of the Martensville Community Recreation Centre was instead held at the North Ridge Community Centre in Martensville on Wednesday, May 24th. From Left to Right: Mary Lee, Vickie MatchapSutherland - One Arrow First Nation Director of Operations, Bartt Timms - MCRP member, John Williams - Canwest Developments CEO, Martensville Mayor Kent Muench, Saskatchewan Minister of Government Relations Don McMorris, Darren McDonald - Martensville City Councillor, Jesse Reis - MCRP Chair, Martensville-Warman MLA Terry Jenson, Ahlana EhaltMCRP member. (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)

ABOVE: Students at Venture Heights School in Martensville now have a new set of basketball hoops at the Junior end to enjoy. (Facebook)

Reminder to Clean-Up after Our Pets

Please be reminded to clean-up after our pets on the pathways and the off-leash dog park. The mess can be potentially harmful to other pets, exposing them to parvovirus and these public spaces are for everyone to enjoy. Remember to bring along a baggy or use one of the baggy stations located along the pathways and dispose of the mess properly

Residential Fire Related Regulations

Martensville Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone to take care and be mindful of the 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 and be at least 3m form combustible materials (fences, buildings etc)

- The burning of rubbish, leaves or clippings is prohibited

- Outdoor fires must be supervised and should be extinguished when finished

- Keep a garden hose, pails of water or a source to extinguish a fire nearby

- 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.

Organics/Green Bin Program and Pick-ups

The City of Martensville offers a Green Bin program through Loraas Organics. This service is by subscription.

Pick-up of the Green Bins will have regular scheduled bi-weekly collection alternating between North/South Martensville and commenced in May and runs until the end of October Pick-up takes place on Tuesdays. The pick-up schedule can be viewed at Martensville.ca

For information or to sign up for this program contact the Utility Clerk at City Hall.

POLICE BEAT

Multiple Charges Laid Following Arrests in Drug Trafficking Investigation

The Saskatoon Police Service Guns and Gangs Unit has concluded a drug trafficking investigation that involved firearms.

Investigators became aware of a suspect believed to be trafficking illicit drugs who was also in possession of various guns. Officers conducted surveillance in Saskatoon and Martensville, observing the suspect driving a white, 2017 GMC Sierra Denali making frequent, quick stops, consistent with drug trafficking activity

On May 12, 2023, at approximately 9:00 p.m., a search warrant was executed at a residence in the 100 block of Chaparral Boulevard in Martensville. The suspect attempted to flee, but was apprehended a short distance away with the help of the Canine Unit. Prior to being taken to SPS Detention, he was transported to hospital for treatment of his minor injuries caused by canine contact. On his person, officers located and seized a large amount of methamphetamine and cash. Around that time, a related female suspect was arrested in the 2100 block of Faithfull Avenue in Saskatoon and found in possession of cocaine.

At the residence, Police found; Three shotguns (1 of them sawed-off), One rifle, Rifle and shotgun ammunition, 463 grams of methamphetamine, 12.46 grams of cocaine, 8.62 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, 99 Xanax pills, 68 hydromorphone pills, $2,376 CAD, Machete, folding knife and expandable baton, 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali and a 2007 Lexus IS350.

A 37-year-old Saskatoon man is facing 10 drug trafficking and possession-related charges. He is also charged with 17 firearms-related offences and Possession of the Proceeds of Crime.

A 33-year-old Martensville woman is facing 10 drug trafficking and possession-related charges and one charge of Possession of the Proceeds of Crime.

RIGHT: Multiple drugs and weapons were seized following an investigation by the Saskatoon Police Service Guns and Gangs Unit.

Buster Days 2023, June 9th, 10th and 11th

Activities include a Slo-pitch Tournament, Beer Gardens, Inflatables, Fireworks, Parade, Pancake Breakfast, Strongman Provincial Qualifier Competition, Corgi Races, and so much more!

Consider helping out as a volunteer and be part of Martensville’s main annual community event.

Visit busterdays.com for more information and schedule of the weekend’s events. Thank you to all volunteers and sponsors!

Landscaping or Working on your Property this Summer? - Things You Should Know

To eliminate damages to public properties, the City has created the Access to Private Property Through Open Spaces Bylaw.

Permit required - Any person or business that will be driving a vehicle or equipment over city open space to access private property are now required to apply for a permit before gaining access. A permit is also required if the work will require storage of material or equipment in an open area.

If you require access to your property through a public space, buffer or park, please contact City Hall before doing so.

Please consult the Bylaw for more information or contact City Hall if you have questions before starting your project.

June Council Meeting Dates

Please Note: Council Meetings may be attended in-person, guests may wear a mask if desired within Council Chambers. Those still wishing to attend but would wish to do so virtually should contact the City Clerk or visit the online agenda for the link to attend.

June 6th - Regular Council Meeting

June 13th - Committee of the Whole Meeting

June 20th - Regular Council Meeting

All Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers. Martensville City Hall

37 Centennial Dr. S

All meetings commence at 5 PM.

Those wishing to address or do a presentation to Council must be placed on the agenda. To be placed on the agenda please contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall or visit the website for details.The full Council and Committee of the Whole Schedule can be obtained at martensville.ca

Rosthern RCMP Investigate Theft of Firearms and Request the Public To Report Sightings of Individual(s) Involved

On May 23, 2023, at approximately 10:34 a.m., Rosthern RCMP received the report of a break-and-enter into a warehouse located on the 1000th block of Saskatchewan Street in Rosthern, SK.

Rosthern RCMP responded immediately, but the individual(s) involved were not located on scene. Police have conducted interviews and continue to follow-up on information provided to them.

Initial information gathered by police determined an individual broke into the warehouse and stole multiple firearms, body armour, an after-market carrier vest, tools and cameras. Police are working to determine the origin of the body armour

Based on surveillance footage obtained by police, the suspect is believed to be a male, approximately 5’8” in height with a medium build. He was seen wearing a plaid jacket, jeans and a white hat.

At this time, police believe the individual(s) departed the scene in a vehicle and are working to gather more information on the make and model. It is unknown whether there was more than one individual involved in the theft.

Rosthern RCMP have engaged officers from the Saskatoon RCMP Forensic Identification Section to assist with processing the scene and examining evidence. If you have information about this incident or the individuals involved, please contact Rosthern RCMP by calling 306-232-6400 or your local police service. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

The investigation is ongoing and an update will be provided as soon as more information is available.

Martensville Library Prepares for a Busy Summer of Reading Challenges, Activities and Programs

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A crowd of hungry people could be seen outside the Martensville Co-op Grocery Store on Saturday, May 27th as the Martensville Library Board hosted a fundraising BBQ. Funds raised through this event will be used to help support library programs, purchase library materials and other supplies.

“It was a lovely day and it was a great success. The library board would like to say thank you to the community and the Co-op for their support,” Librarian Marla Skomar stated.

With summer almost here, the local library has wrapped up some of the regular programs such as Books ‘n’ Babies, Story Time and Wiggles & Giggles until the fall; however, there is still an assortment of activities planned for the summer.

Once again, the Martensville Library will be participating in the TD Summer Reading Program, which is in place to help encourage kids 0-12 to continue reading during the summer months. Registration can be done at the local library beginning June 12th and children can track their reading minutes throughout the summer, earning the chance to win some amazing prizes. “This helps kids maintain their reading skills as they prepare to enter their new grades when returning to school in the fall,” Skomar explained. There will also be a summer reading program in place for teens and adults to track their reading minutes and enter to win prizes.

Buster

Days

Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

Wheatland Regional Library will be hosting a Reading Challenge Cup this year, and the goal that the Martensville Library has in place is for the community to read 120,000 minutes this summer. “Kids, teens and adult reading minutes all go towards the library trying to reach this goal. The branch earns points towards the cup for reaching its reading minutes goal, programming and other activities as it tries to get more points than other Wheatland branches. The winning branch and community will win a celebration party from the Wheatland head office,” Skomar stated.

In addition to reading, there will also be lots of activities and programs at the library throughout the summer for all ages to participate in. The library is currently finalizing details, but will have a full lineup of activities available by June 15th, with registration for programs opening on that day.

Skomar dropped a sneak peek by stating activities will include weekly Take & Make crafts, I Spy in the Park, Story Time in the Park, Storybook Trails, weekly drop-in activities/programs, as well as registered science and craft programs.

“We are partnering with Regional Kids First for an Outdoors Playday in July and will have a visit from the SK Science Centre Go Science program on August 1. Check out the library Instagram and Facebook pages for the details or drop in to grab a summer newsletter with all the activities.”

As of Thursday, June 1, the Martensville Library hours will be changing, now operating 9:30am6:00pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:30am8:00pm Tuesday and Thursday, 9:30am-2:00pm on Saturdays and closed on Sundays.

LEFT and ABOVE LEFT: A fundraiser BBQ was hosted by the Martensville Library Board on Saturday, May 27th, with all funds raised going to support the local library. (Submitted)

Returns

Since 1985, Buster Days has been a part of Martensville, initially starting out as a small town get together with a ball tournament and since growing into the huge event we all look forward to every year to help kick-off the summer celebrations.

Buster Days will be starting off with a splash on Friday, June 9th with Family Swim at 5pm and running until 7:00pm, followed by youth swim night from 7:30pm9:30pm. Once again, the ball diamonds will be a hub of activity with the annual tournament beginning at 6pm that night, along with the beer gardens. New this year, is Club 55 which starts at 6pm on Friday with Sign Making and Wood Carving, both of which require pre-registration to participate in that can be done at www.martensville. ca. The ever-popular fireworks display will end the night at Kinsmen Park, starting at 10:15pm.

The fun continues on Saturday morning with a Pancake Breakfast at the Curling Rink, with the fluffy hotcakes served up by the Martensville Fire Department and admission by donation. There will also be a Rocky Ridge Model Railroad Display set up at the curling rink from 8am-4pm.

There will also be Fitness in the Park along with a Free Healthy Breakfast which starts at 9:30am at Kinsmen Park. To participate you must bring your own yoga mat.

The streets will be lined with excited spectators with the parade beginning

June 9, 10 & 11

at 11am, taking place on the south side of Martensville this year along 8th Avenue South, 4th Street South, 1st Avenue South and Main Street.

The afternoon will be filled with entertainment with road hockey, strong man competition, inflatables, laser tag, airbrush tattoos, skateboarding and lots of food trucks that will be set up at the MAP parking lot. Some of the food trucks available will be Smokes Poutine, Smokehaus Deli and Meats, Hawaiian Shaved Ice, Alpha Dog Waffles, Hectors Grub Hub, and Chow Queen to name a few.

The fun continues Sunday with ball, soccer jamboree, bingo, petting zoo, money pit and so much more.

“Don’t miss out on this spectacular event where committee members work very hard every year to make it a great weekend of entertainment,” Angie Reddekkopp, Recreation Program Supervisor with the City of Martensville, stated.

“Special thanks to our sponsors, City of Martensville, Sask Lotteries, Kinsmen Club, 2Web Design, Freeway Delivery Services Ltd., North Prairie Developments, NorthRidge, AOBDT, Offroad Exteriors, Lakeview Insurance, Poly Plus, Central Liquor, Canadian Tire, Sask Energy, Sasktel and Affinity Credit Union,” Reddekopp added.

To find out all the details about the event, go to busterdays.com.

Registration for Annual 3 on 3 Tournament Opens June 1

Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Community Recreation Project (MCRP) will once again be hosting the ever popular 3 on 3 Hockey Tournament this year. This tournament has been a major fundraiser for the past several years where a group of volunteers have been working hard to raise funds to help with building the new multi-purpose facility that has started construction in Martensville.

Not only does the tournament see support from the community when it comes to participants, but the MCRP also receives massive support from the business community.

The 3 on 3 tournament will run from August 27th until September 17th at the Martensville Sports Centre with each participant getting a guaranteed seven games to compete in for $195/player. If you register before June 30, you will receive $20 off registration. Every participant will receive a T-shirt at the end of the tournament.

The age categories for the tournament are U9, U11, U13, U15 and 15+ divisions. “Thirty-two teams of ten players will be competing for a total of 320 kids, plus additional spare players as always,” said Joe Garchinski, 3 on 3 Tournament Director.

Registration opens on June 1 and people are encouraged to register soon to avoid disappointment as this tournament sells out fast. To register for the tournament, you can sign up are mcrp.ca (under fundraisers) or visit the Facebook page for more information about the tournament.

Community Rallies Together to Celebrate the Life of Mike Smith

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

On Saturday, May 27th people from Martensville, Warman and surrounding areas all rallied together to show their support and love for Mike Smith, who recently passed away following a battle with cancer, and the entire Smith family.

A ball tournament, dubbed ‘Hit Mike Home’ was organized to raise funds to help with expenses to bring Mike back to his home in Martensville from the hospital; however, plans changed to instead celebrate the life of Smith, who, judging by the turnout, made a huge impact in countless lives.

Through a silent auction, raffle prizes, 50/50, tournament entry fees, donations, sponsorships and more an incredible total of approximately $73,000 was raised, which will go to the Smith family to help with various medical expenses incurred. According to event organizer Angie Reddekopp, this is a preliminary total. A portion of this amount was donated by Warman Fire Rescue, who held a pancake breakfast over the weekend, with donations going towards supporting the Smith family. In addition to this, the winner of the 50/50 draw, who won a total of $1890, donated their winnings back.

“It was an amazing day celebrating a very community-minded individual. It was great to see everyone come together to celebrate the life of Mike and to honour his life and support the family. It is events like this that make me feel so proud to call Martensville home. The way this community came together was incredible,” Reddekopp said.

A total of 16 teams participated in the tournament, with all teams playing three games, and the teams that made it to the final playing four.

There are plans to host an annual memorial tournament in honour of Mike, with proceeds going towards supporting a different charity or individual in need each year.

“As we were setting up on Friday, Mike’s son suggested that we do this every year and give the money to different charities or families in need because Mike was so involved in the community, that’s something he would have liked to see happen. The fact his son came up with the idea is such an amazing thing and goes to show the kind of person that Mike was and the traits that he passed on,” Reddekopp stated.

ABOVE: The winners of the ‘Hit Mike Home’ tournament along with Kristen, and her sons Drew and Desmond (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)

Congratulations to the Slam Summit U15 team on winning the gold medal this past weekend at the Basketball Saskatchewan Provincial Championship U15 Gold Division. The team is comprised of players from various communities, including two hailing from Martensville –Jakob Jungwirth and Shakeel David. (Back Row L to R) Coach Dan Codling, Coach Jared Harvey, Shakeel David, Jacob Codling, Griffin Blanch, Luke Walde, Tyson Pringle, Jakob Jungwirth, Gavin Sasko, Jordon Brown, Coach Brad Smith and Coach Efren Linantud. (Front Row L to R) Jack Tuck, Fidel Linantud, Kendall Harvey, Nathan Manaligog and Campbell Smith Ford. (Submitted)

Sound Bite Political Debates Unhelpful

If only we could reallocate all time and energy that’s spent in politics thinking and selling popular things to actually solving the problems at hand. Consider all that time and energy exerted in the last 10 years in the political fight over manmade climate change.

Let’s accept that manmade climate change is reality - an issue that’s taken up far too much time and energy as it is. Then the issue becomes how much a vast, sparsely populated country like Canada representing a fraction of the world’s population should have to contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs), knowing that most anything we do requires difficult change and that’s expensive and will likely cost jobs in the natural resources sector.

National goals are set that, at first glance, might seem modest because they measured in decades, like the federal government “goal” to reduce electricity produced by fossil fuels by 2035. With options like hydroelectric and nuclear production along with the increase in wind and solar, it might seem attainable. And it is a more reasonable option to burning coal, but what if you are a jurisdiction like Saskatchewan where electricity has meant burning lignite coal for 94 years of SaskPower’s existence because this province has never had easy access to hydroelectric power? In fact, coal still accounts for 25 per cent of SaskPower’s annual 5,437 megawatts production with another 40 per cent from natural gas.

Is it fair that \the Saskatchewan public is already, paying among the highest electrical bills in the nation - and should absorb the costs of abandoned massive infrastructures before we get maximum value out of them? Can we afford this?

Is it fair, given that Canada contributes a small fraction to global GHG emissions and Saskatchewan; albeit, having one of the highest per capita GHG emissions in the country; still only adds a small fraction to our country’s GHGs?

These are difficult questions. So what is the answer? Well, we all know there seldom are easy answers to tough problems; however, most of us facing complicated dilemmas affecting others, try and sit down and have a rational conversation, weighing the pros and cons, but in combative politics; especially in today’s world when the Internet and social media puts even more emphasis on sound bites; complicated matters now boil down to who can provide the best short quote.

Sometimes, three-word catchphrases are what now pass for debate, like Saskatchewan Premier’s Moe’s recent from comment: “Come get me.”

In fairness to Moe, his entire response to federal Environment and Climate Change Canada Minister Steven Guilbeault's suggestion that jurisdictions like Saskatchewan could be criminally prosecuted for violating the Criminal Code if they were still running coal-fired electricity after 2030, was more nuanced and profound.

"If where we've come to in this country is when individuals in this province, or any other province, flick their lights on or their furnace fan kicks in and that's deemed illegal and cause for someone to go to jail, come get me," Moe said. And in fairness to Guilbeault answering a similar question asked by a reporter in Ottawa, his answer was similarly more complex:

“We've regulated the ban on coal through CEPA (the Canadian Environmental Protection Act), which is a criminal tool that the federal government has," Guilbeault said. "So not complying with this regulation would be a violation of Canada's Criminal Code."

Guilbault further qualified that “we have to decarbonize our grid” that “it's about jobs” and “of course, we want to do that in a way that is affordable for Canadians."

Admittedly, the media did the politicians few favours, but today’s politicians favour these terse, combative quotes because it’s all that voters demand.

Sadly, it’s what now happens instead of sitting down and actually discussing a problem. We all need to do better.

Warman Fire Rescue Shows Support to Family of Fellow Firefighter

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Warman Fire Rescue hosted their annual Open House and BBQ on Saturday, May 27th, and this year, the event helped support a Martensville family. Mike Smith, a former firefighter with the Martensville Fire Department passed away recently following a hard fought battle with cancer and as their way of showing support to a fellow firefighter, WFR made the unanimous decision to donate

all money raised at this event to the Smith family in memory of their Brother Firefighter. A total of over $6400 was raised, which WFR will be adding to themselves as well.

“Firefighters are a close community and we always have each other’s backs. In this case, we just wanted to do something for a great firefighter and his family. Mike and the MFD firefighters would do the same for us,” WFR Chief Russ Austin stated.

ABOVE: Warman Fire Rescue held their annual Open House and BBQ on Saturday, May 27th, which raised over $6400 that will be donated to the family of fellow firefighter Mike Smith, who recently passed away following a battle with cancer. (Warman Fire Rescue)

Saskatchewan to Strengthen Relationship with Germany During Economic Mission

Building on Saskatchewan’s relationship with the European Union (EU), Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison will lead a trade delegation from Saskatchewan to Germany this week. The delegation will also officially open Saskatchewan’s international office in Berlin.

“Germany is a manufacturing powerhouse and the fourth largest economy in the world,” Harrison said. “Setting up this office will provide exporters and investors with increased support to further navigate business opportunities and increase trade. Saskatchewan’s economy relies on trade, exporting approximately 65 per cent of everything we produce. By enhancing our international presence, we are increasing exports and attracting new investment, which is creating jobs and strengthening Saskatchewan communities.”

With the addition of Germany to the international trade network, Saskatchewan will have nine offices located in China, India, Japan, Mexico, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and Vietnam.

Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP), along with a delegation of Saskatchewan commodity and agrifood exporters, will join the upcoming mission to explore opportunities with German and EU buyers looking for high quality food ingredients, grains, pulses and oilseeds.

“Saskatchewan exporters shipped $1.25 billion in agricultural products to the EU in 2022,” STEP CEO Chris Dekker said. “STEP members are looking to maximize their profile and increase sales while taking full advantage of the new opportunities provided by Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the new international offices.”

International missions are crucial for connecting Saskatchewan companies with new markets, ensuring the province’s economy can continue to thrive. Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO Prabha Ramaswamy will also be joining the delegation.

"Our member businesses benefit from access to markets beyond Canada, boosting their profits, and enhancing job creation,” Ramaswamy said. “By engaging in global trade, Saskatchewan can stimulate economic activity and growth, leveraging our abundant resources to generate export revenue and attract foreign investments. With its strong manufacturing sector, emphasis on agri-food, agri-technology, and technology in general, Germany has the potential to be a very lucrative market for Saskatchewan businesses.”

Germany is a key member of the EU hosting many major trade fairs and exhibitions like Agritechnica, a signature sales-focused event for Saskatchewan’s agriculture manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, Saskatchewan is home to German investments such as K+S, who recently announced a long-term growth plan for a sustained increase of potash production at its Bethune mine.

“Saskatchewan is in a unique position for foreign investment geologically with its access to critical minerals and politically with a strong drive toward economic development,” K+S Potash Canada President Sam Farris said. “The Germany based mining company K+S Group has already recognized the opportunity, becoming the first new greenfield potash mine in the province in 50 years and recently announcing intentions to increase production to nearly double the Bethune Mine’s current capacity over the next couple of decades. As the business community works toward increasing Saskatchewan’s place in global markets, continued cooperation of the province will be a key factor in our collective success in the coming years.”

Saskatchewan’s merchandise exports to the EU increased by nearly 47 per cent from $1.8 billion in 2021 to $2.6 billion in 2022. Last year, the top three export products to the EU were potash ($760.4 million), wheat ($587.5 million), and uranium ($409.2 million).

The provincial government’s international offices play a pivotal role in helping achieve Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan goals. These include increasing the value of exports by 50 per cent, growing private capital investment to $16 billion annually by 2030, creating 100,000 new jobs, growing the number of international markets to which the province exports more than $1 billion, and others.

Dog Guides Fundraiser Huge Success

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A group of over 100 people and over 40 dogs gathered in Lions Park in Martensville on Sunday, May 28th to participate in the 9th annual Lions Foundation of Canada Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides in Martensville.

This incredible fundraiser takes place throughout the country and helps to raise funds and awareness for Dog Guides. Funds raised through this event help the Lions Foundation of Canada provide dog guides to families in need at no cost.

In Martensville, the walk has been gaining ground each year; however the Covid pandemic took its toll and according to Project Chairperson/Martensville & District Lions Club member Doug Ward, “you almost had to start over” following the pandemic.

This event was made possible thanks to contributions from numerous local businesses such as Martensville Pet Valu, Martensville Veterinary Clinic, Paws Republic, Canalta Inn, Canadian Tire, Pharmasave, Phobia Auto Care, Edmond Joseph Salon, Affinity Credit Union, Martensville Coop, A&W, Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, Doctors Vision Care, Lakeview Insurance, Warman Pet Valu, Norsask Veterinary Clinic, Market Mall Pet Valu, Kensington Pet Valu, Life Line Brokers, North Prairie Developments, Early's Garden Centre, The Cave Restaurant, Fuddruckers and of course our local Lions Club.

“It is very important to have support from local businesses in the community to be successful in every project and Martensville is a great community. I would like to say a very special thank you to all of the businesses and our citizens who supported the Walk for Dog Guides and help make it a success. I love this community we live in,” Ward stated.

With the money raised through this Canada-wide event, dog guides will receive training in one of seven programs available which include hearing, seizure response, service, autism assistance, diabetic alert, facility support and canine vision and then be provided to a family at no cost. Typically, the entire training process costs $35,000 which includes follow-up support while the dog is working.

The local Lions Club has been working hard within the community and surrounding area for the past 40 years and this event is just one of many ways they help to support the area. Currently they are in the process of replacing the playground at Lions Park, with construction planned to be completed this summer.

“The mobility playground will be wheelchair accessible for all to play and the surface will be made of recycled tires and running shoes. Come and check it out beside the Spray Park,” Ward added.

ABOVE: Participants of the Lions Foundation of Canada Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides gather for a picture on Sunday, May 28th. (Shanine Sealey)