The City of Martensville is inviting residents to help shape the priorities for the 2027 municipal budget by completing a short online survey.
Your feedback will help Council and Administration better understand community priorities as they plan for future services, programs, infrastructure, and investments. Whether it’s roads, parks, recreation, public safety, or other municipal services, your input plays an important role in the budget planning process.
The survey only takes a few minutes to complete and is open to all Martensville residents. Take the survey today by visiting: martensville.ca/pages/city_budget_2027_survey.html.
Reduce the Risk of Home Flooding and Water Damage
As seasonal storms and heavy rains become more frequent this time of year, it’s important for residents to be prepared for flooding threats around our homes and neighborhoods.
Some tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your downspouts are extended and aimed away from the foundation of your house.
- Ensure your gutters and downspouts are free of debris and blockages so that water can flow freely.
- Don’t block storm drains with any materials or items from your property
- Take caution when driving through flooded streets/alleys – Hazards may be hidden by pooled water.
For additional information on water drainage and elevations in Martensville, visit the Drainage and Elevations page at Martensville.ca
Canada Day Celebrations – Tuesday, June 30
Celebrate our great nation with a free drive-in movie, and open gym time at the MAP!
- Free drop-in gym time at the MAP from 6pm-10pm. All three courts will be open for various sports and activities
- The Bad Guys 2 will be playing as this year’s drive-in movie at the ball diamonds parking lot at Kinsmen Park. Gates for the movie will open at 7:30pm, and the movie will start around 9:30, or when the sun sets. This is a free event.
Thanks to all of our sponsors for putting on these events:
- Clark’s Supply & Service Ltd.
- North Prairie Developments and Canwest
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.
July 7– Committee of the Whole Meeting July 14 – 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.
Martensville Library – Summer Programming
Looking for ways to keep the kids reading, learning, and having fun this summer? The Martensville Library has a fantastic lineup of free programs and activities for all ages, including the TD Summer Reading Club, story times, hands-on activities, and special events throughout July and August. Whether you’re a lifelong reader or just getting started, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Check out the 2026 Library Summer Programs Newsletter at Martensville.ca to learn more and register for upcoming programs.
Upcoming Events
June 29 – Set C and D Swimming Lessons begin
June 29 – Schools Out Summer Camp Week – Ocean Exploration begins
June 29 – Wheatland Reading Club Community Challenge begins
June 30 – Canada Day Move – Under the Stars
June 30 – Free Drop-in at the MAP from 6:00pm – 8:00pm\
July 1 – MAP and City Hall closed for Canada Day
July 1 – TD Summer Reading Program begins
July 2 – MAP Summer Hours begin
July 2 – Morning Lane Swim begins
July 2 – Outdoor AquaFit begins
City of Martensville Notice
Bylaw #12-2026
Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the City of Martensville, pursuant to Section 207 of the Planning and Development Act, 2007, intends to consider a bylaw to amend Zoning Bylaw No. 1-2015, as follows:
1. The Zoning District Map referred to in Section 7 is amended by:
(a) Rezoning a portion of Parcel Y, Plan No. 62S21199 in NW ¼ Sec 27-38-5 W3, a portion of NW ¼ Sec 27-38-5 W3, and a portion of SW ¼ Sec 27-38-5 W3, from “FUD – Future Urban Development” to “R2 – Medium Density Residential” and “R3 – High-Density Residential”.
REASON: The proposed rezoning will provide for residential development in alignment with the proposed Lake Vista II Concept Plan. Rezoning will not be finalized until the Concept Plan has been formally adopted.
Editor/Ad Design: Jocelyn Ottenbreit jottenbreit@martensvillemessenger.ca To Contact Us About Advertising: advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca Want to Share News?: news@martensvillemessenger.ca
EXAMINATION OF BYLAW: This bylaw may be examined by interested persons at City Hall on any judicial day between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Printed copies of the Bylaw and Notice are available at a cost of $1.00.
PUBLIC HEARING: Council will hold a public hearing on July 14, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., in the City of Martensville Council Chambers via Zoom (link to be included in the Council Agenda), to hear from any person or group who wishes to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the City Hall before July 7, 2026
Dated at Martensville this 22nd day of June 2026.
Martensville Library Ready for a Summer of Reading, Learning and Fun
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville Library is gearing up for another exciting summer, offering a wide variety of reading challenges, educational activities, crafts, storytimes and community programs for all ages.
Registration for the library’s summer reading programs opens June 22nd, with challenges available for children, teens and adults. Young readers can take part in the TD Summer Reading Club, while teens ages 12-16 can join the Dive In Teen Summer Challenge. Adults are invited to participate in the Reading Opens Oceans of Opportunities challenge, and the entire community can help the Martensville branch reach its goal of 400,000 reading minutes through the Wheatland Reading Cup Community Challenge.
Throughout July and August, the library will host a number of free drop-in programs. Families with young children can enjoy Books & Babies, Wiggles & Giggles Toddler Story & Play Time, Storytime in the Park and Muddles’ Library Storytime. Additional family programming includes Great Outdoors Play Day and Story and Craft sessions offered in partnership with the Early Years Family Resource Centre.
School-aged children can take part in hands-on activities such as LEGO Build Day, Makedo Construction, STEM Explorers Machine Makers, Stuffie Sleepover, and weekly themed activities featuring large games, Ozobots, Bee-Bots, Keva Planks, Cubelets and more.
Several registered programs will also be offered throughout the summer. Science-minded children can explore the world around them through Sci-Fi Science Camp and a special Go! Science presentation. Creative participants can enjoy Pool Noodle Crafts, Phone Charms, Pasta Coral Garden Craft and No-Sew Appliqué Pouches. For teens and adults, the library is offering a variety of artistic opportunities, including Community Art Night and two free workshops led by Anita from ANEET Art: Textured Mountain Painting and Alcohol Inks.
In addition to the summer programming, families are encouraged to visit Veterans Square throughout the season to enjoy the Wheatland Storybook Trail, featuring a series of children’s books displayed along the walking path.
Most programs are free of charge, though some require advance registration. For more information or to register for programs, contact the Martensville Library at (306) 956-7311 or visit the library at the Martensville Civic Centre. You can also find more details through the ‘Martensville Library’ Facebook page.
Busy Fingers Grads Ready for Their Next Adventure
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Busy Fingers Preschool celebrated its Class of 2026 graduation this past week, marking the end of a fun-filled year of learning for its excited young students.
As a parent run cooperative, families play an active role in the classroom and in shaping the preschool community. This hands on involvement creates strong connections and keeps their program affordable and family focused.
Through creative activities, social interaction, and age appropriate routines, 3and 4-year-olds are provided with safe, fun and engaging space where they can explore, make friends, and build confidence. Children develop the skills they need for a smooth transition into kindergarten.
For current class times, fees, and registration details, families can contact their registrar at: registrar@busyfingerspreschool.ca.
Stuff the Trailer Another Success Despite the Weather
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The fourth annual ‘Stuff the Trailer’ BBQ fundraiser, put on by the Martensville & District Lions Club and the Martensville Food Pantry (MFP), was another great success.
Teaming up with the community to help fill the shelves at the MFP, the Lions Club, along with the MFP volunteers and everyone who donated, helped make the event another successful event.
Donations are welcome all year and can be dropped off at the Food Pantry on Wednesday mornings. Non-perishable items can also be placed in the collection bins at City Hall, the MAP, and the Martensville Co-op grocery store. Suggested donations include:
• Cereal
• Children’s snacks
• Canned fruits and vegetables
• Juice
• Rice
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
Charitable tax receipts can be issued for donations of $20 or more.
Food Pantry officials also reminded hamper recipients that there will be no hamper pickup until Thursday, July 2nd. Requests for hampers that week must be submitted by Tuesday, June 30th at 6:30pm.
For more information, to make a donation, or to request a hamper, contact the Martensville Food Pantry at (306) 280-1255, email martensvillefoodpantry@gmail. com, or message the Martensville Food Pantry through social media.
Martensville Youth Chosen to Announce “Play Ball” at Berries Game
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
ABOVE: Martensville youth, Lincoln was chosen from the crowd to the ceremonial “Play Ball!” announcement before the Saskatoon Berries game on Friday, June 19th. (Submitted) BELOW: A group of excited youth gathered to celebrate the Class of 2026 Busy Fingers Preschool graduation on June 18th.
Country Night at Cairns Field became even more memorable for one young Martensville resident on Friday, June 19th, when Lincoln was selected from the crowd to deliver the ceremonial "Play Ball!" announcement before the Saskatoon Berries took on the Regina Red Sox.
Dressed for the occasion in a cowboy hat, bandana and western-inspired outfit, Lincoln took centre stage as part of the evening's festivities. His announcement was featured on the stadium's video board, earning cheers from the crowd and creating a special memory for the young baseball fan and his family.
The Country Night event featured plenty of entertainment beyond the action on the diamond, including a petting zoo, a mullet contest, countrythemed activities, and a special promotion that saw the first 500 fans receive passes to the Outskirts Music Festival.
The excitement continued on the field as the Saskatoon Berries put together an impressive performance, defeating the Regina Red Sox by a commanding 12-1 score. With a big crowd, plenty of country fun, and a decisive Berries victory, it was a night to remember, especially for Lincoln who had an exciting story to share with his friends and family.
Canada Day Celebrations Offer Plenty of Family Fun Across the Region
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Local residents looking for ways to celebrate Canada Day will have a few options to choose from, with family-friendly festivities scheduled in Martensville, Warman and Saskatoon.
Martensville Celebrates with Movie Under the Stars
The City of Martensville is kicking off the celebrations a day early with a free outdoor movie night on Monday, June 30th, at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP).
Residents are invited to enjoy free drop-in activities at the MAP from 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Families can then settle in for a screening of The Bad Guys 2, which is scheduled to begin at approximately 9:30pm or once the sun sets. Gates to view the movie will be open at 7:30pm.
The Treat Truck will be on site throughout the evening offering a variety of refreshments, including drinks, snacks and dirty sodas.
The free event is made possible through support from the City of Martensville, North Prairie Developments Ltd., Canwest Commercial & Land Corporation, and Clark's Supply & Service Ltd., which donated a trailer for the event.
Warman Plans Full Day of Entertainment
Warman's Canada Day festivities begin with a Drive-In Movie Night on June 30th before the main celebration takes over Lion's Park on July 1st.
The movie will take place in the parking lot of the Warman Home Centre Communiplex with a petting zoo, food trucks, big games and other activities available as well. The movie will begin at dusk and those attending are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs.
Activities on July 1st will run from noon until 10:00pm and include opening ceremonies and a community cake cutting at 2:00pm. Children's activities will be
available from noon until 6:00pm, featuring face painting, a gaming trailer, bouncy castles, sparkle tattoos, crafts and games.
Visitors can also browse market vendors, enjoy a variety of food trucks and food vendors, and take in live entertainment throughout the day. This year's lineup includes Freightliner Country Band, Hot Rod Hullabaloo, Prairie Country Music Association performers, SCREAMER, The Real Canadian Superband, Radical Country Band and Saskatchewan country artist Codie Prevost, who will headline the evening's entertainment.
The celebration will conclude with a fireworks display at dusk near the train monument.
Saskatoon Hosts Riverfront Canada Day Festival
Those looking for a larger celebration can head to Saskatoon, where Canada Day festivities will once again take place along the South Saskatchewan River at River Landing and Rotary Park.
The annual celebration features live music, cultural performances, family activities, children's entertainment, food vendors, community displays and interactive experiences throughout the day. The event is designed to recognize Canada's diversity and bring residents together for a day of celebration and community connection.
The festivities will wrap up with a fireworks display over the South Saskatchewan River, providing a spectacular conclusion to the day's events.
Whether it's an outdoor movie in Martensville, a full day of entertainment and fireworks in Warman, or the large-scale riverfront celebration in Saskatoon, residents have plenty of opportunities to celebrate Canada Day with family and friends.
Local Students Earn Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Scholarships
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Several students from Martensville and Warman have been recognized for their commitment to pursuing careers in the skilled trades after receiving Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) Industry Scholarships.
The Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) recently awarded 110 scholarships to high school students from 68 communities across the province. Each scholarship is valued at $1,000 and can be redeemed once recipients meet specific apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship training requirements in Saskatchewan.
Among the local recipients was Jace Lightburn of Martensville, who received an Industry Scholarship and plans to pursue a career as a Construction Electrician. Lightburn participated in the Saskatoon Industry Education Council's 2025 Summer Program while attending Martensville High School.
Warman students were also well represented among this year's scholarship winners. Landon Redekopp, a Hague High School student, was recognized for his interest in becoming an Agricultural Equipment Technician or Heavy-Duty Equipment Technician. Warman High School students John Christian Gabby Dadula, who plans to become a Construction Electrician, Ethan Reid, who is pursuing welding, and Tye Christmann, who is interested in Instrumentation and Control Technician work, were also awarded scholarships.
The scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship participants who have demonstrated a commitment to building careers in the skilled trades. Educators known as SYA Champions nominate students who have taken meaningful steps toward entering the trades and plan to continue on that path following graduation.
"Congratulations to the deserving recipients of this year's SYA Industry Scholarships," stated Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz. "Skilled tradespeople are in high demand in Saskatchewan and essential to the growth of our province. Our government is committed to ensuring more young people pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades."
SATCC CEO Jeff Ritter said the scholarships provide an important boost for young people entering the trades workforce. "The SYA Industry Scholarship is a great bonus for youth entering the skilled trades in Saskatchewan," Ritter said. "New apprenticeship registrations are increasing, and this is a positive indicator for high school graduates looking to start their careers in the skilled trades."
Since the scholarship program launched in 2009, more than 1,500 scholarships have been awarded. The scholarship fund is supported by industry sponsors, employers, associations, unions and the Government of Saskatchewan, with a combined investment of more than $1.2 million. There are currently more than 2,500 students enrolled in the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship program.
For more information about the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship program, visit https://saskapprenticeship.ca/sask-youth-apprenticeship/.
City Offers Variety of Summer Camps for Local Youth
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Summer is almost here, and now is the time to register for summer camps that will be available through the City of Martensville.
This year’s options include; Summer Fun Programs, EPIC Sportball camps, Archery Camp, Basketball Camp, and Volleyball Camp.
School’s Out Camps will have lots of fun activities, games and crafts to name a few.
Cost: $20 per day or $100 for the week
• June 29–July 3 (no camp July 1): Ocean Exploration
• July 20–24: Fantasy Week
• July 27–31: Holiday Magic
• August 17–21: The Great Outdoors
EPIC Sportball Summer Camps will feature basketball, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, golf, baseball, frisbee and volleyball.
Cost: $20 per day or $100 for the week
• July 13–17: Football, Volleyball, Hockey, Lacrosse, and Golf
• August 10–14: Soccer, Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, and Ultimate Frisbee Program times: School’s Out and Sportball camps are half-day programs. Children ages 5–7 attend from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and children ages 8–10 attend from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Specialty Camps
• Archery Camp: August 4–6, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Basketball Camp: July 6–9
• Volleyball Camp: August 24–27
To register go to www.martensville.ca.
Congratulations to Martensville High School Award and Scholarship Recipients
Honour Roll
Gian Aggabao
Joy Aigberua
Clara Akister
Hayden Baessler
Ashlyn Baldwin
Kerrigan Bloomquist
Caelen Bridgette
Blake Carlson
Brody Collins
Hannah Daniels
Tearsa Daniels
Felix Danyluk
Hawkley Dereniwski
Ruby Driedger
Ashlyn Emms
Blake Fontaine
Alexa Gillett
Danica Haeusler
Brooklyn Hamborg
Logan Hannay
Saxon Hind
Haley Houle
Nixson Howlett
Reis Jamieson
Jordyn Johnson
Daniel Jones
Jakob Jungwirth
Hailey Kelf
Ava Koroscil
Carly L'heureux
Emilya Larson-Maslow
Mishka Lawson
Wyley Loewen
Dash Loiselle
Kasey Marshall
Ava McConnell
Ryland McConnell
Kinley McGaughey
Jadzia Miller
Lindsay Miller
Jessica Morrison
Avery Mueller
Chase Ogden
Aubree Ohryn
Tanyka Osam
Tatum Pearson
Regan Peters
Ava-Rose Pocha
Derek Roberts
Emerson Romanow
Maddox Saccucci
Mataya Sader
Denver Schira
Kaspar Sheard
Harnoor Singh
Dalton Sommerfeld
Gabby Strelau
Max Teskey
Cameron Tiessen
Nolan Webb
Kye Webster
Corben Wegman
Kael Zelisko
A&W Scholarship
Abe Reddekopp Scholarship
Distinction
Rylee Anderson
Teysen Baschuk
Kash Berg
Danika Bjarnarson
Makayla Boisvert
Newri Castro
Jade Chabot
Leah Driedger
Hunter Dumont
Axel Elliott
Ashley Ewert
Fiza Farooq
Gavin Fraser
Emily Funk
Dawson Gaudreau
Megan Hubbard
Emma Hurley
Blake Husnik
Piper Landry
Karissa Mason
Emery Murfin
Ashlyn Nygaard
Cooper Ogden
Kennedi Paquette
Kennedy Pastushok
Jakov Pecik
Ana Raicevic
Avica Riley
Autumn Robson
Sierra Schmaltz
Keegan Scott
Alyssa Mikaela Tungcab
Hayley Van Loon
Zoe Winchester
Marleigh Woloshyn
Nicholas Zimmerman
Award Recipients
Athletic Award
Hunter Dumont & Megan
Hubbard
Athletic Spirit Award in Memory of Roger Wilgenbusch
Jakob Jungwirth, Lindsay Miller, & Marleigh Woloshyn
2026 Update on the Dutch Elm Disease situation in Saskatchewan
By Jill Thomson
In June 2024, I wrote an article on the status of Dutch Elm Disease (DED) in Saskatchewan (Pinned to top of our Facebook page www.facebook.com/saskperennial). Since then, there have been significant changes in the disease progression, with more damage to our trees occurring. A few weeks ago I was sitting outside a house on Eastlake Avenue, in the Broadway area of Saskatoon, and it struck me how bare and exposed that street would be if all the elms were removed. Elm trees are an ideal shade tree for city streets and were used extensively in North American cities for a hundred years and more, until civic planners realized about 30 -40 years ago that these trees were very vulnerable to the deadly DED. Since then, a number of different types of trees have been planted in urban streets and parks , unfortunately many of these seem to have significant disease or insect problems and do not do well in urban environments. On the street where I live, developed in the 1960’s, a variety of trees have been planted, as well as the stately elm, which certainly would lessen the impact of destruction of the elms. However, I was horrified a few weeks ago when a city crew began cutting down a large elm at the end of our block. I rushed down to see what was happening and was very relieved when the manager of the crew explained the main trunk of the tree was splitting, making it structurally unsound and a possible danger to houses and people. I counted the rings on the remaining stump and there were at least 50, so that elm was likely planted just after the houses were built on our street.
The Saskatchewan Crop Protection Lab (CPL), based in Regina, has been identifying wood infected with DED, testing samples at no charge for several years. This means the status of the disease prevalence can be monitored in the cities that submit samples. The majority of the city samples have been from Regina, Moose Jaw and Saskatoon. Following are the findings for the last year of testing.
In Regina 111 of 236 samples were infected with DED (positive) , in Moose Jaw 53 of 91 samples were positive, and in Saskatoon 43 of 245 samples were positive, resulting in the removal of 62 trees.
An article posted by Phil Tank, on CBC news , February 9, 2026 outlines the progress of the disease in Saskatoon:
2015 – first case of DED
2021 – 2 cases
2023 – 4 cases
2024 – 11 cases, 18 mature elms removed 2025 – 41 cases (reported as 43 cases by CPL, I do not know why these values are different!), 62 trees removed.
It is obvious that the disease is becoming more prevalent each year and the number of trees removed is also increasing. Saskatoon City Hall has stated they anticipate an increasing surge in the number of infected trees. It is important for the public to recognize possible symptoms of DED: in late June to mid-July, sudden yellowing and flagging of one or more branches at the top of the tree; the leaves wilt, turn yellow (later brown), but stay on the branch. If you notice these symptoms, City management should be informed so that samples can be taken and the tree removed if it is infected with DED. There are other reasons why a tree may look infected, and a laboratory test is required to confirm the diagnosis.
Another important way that disease spread can be reduced is by stopping storage and movement of possibly infected wood. Signs warning the public not to transport firewood around the province have been posted along highways for a number of years. Storage of elm firewood in the city may also help spread transmission of the disease by elm bark beetles. City crews have been looking for, removing and disposing of elm firewood on private properties. The City has also waived the landfill fees for public disposal of elm wood, which helps remove infected wood from the disease cycle. We all need to be vigilant, to help protect the elm trees that contribute so much to the comfort of our city lives.
For more information, or to get a tree inspected contact - Dutch Elm Disease | City of Saskatoon
This column is provided courtesy of the Saskatchewan Perennial Society (SPS; saskperennial@hotmail.com). Check our website (www.saskperennial.ca) or Facebook page (www.facebook.com/saskperennial) for a list of upcoming gardening events.
Health Card Renewal Stickers Coming This Fall, Is Your Address Up To Date?
With health cards set to expire at the end of 2026, eHealth is reminding Saskatchewan residents to make sure their address and family information on file is upto-date to ensure they receive their new health card stickers this fall.
2026 is a health card renewal year and preparations are underway. eHealth will begin mailing out renewal stickers to anyone currently eligible for Saskatchewan health coverage starting mid-September.
If your address or other personal information has changed, Health Registries needs to know. It is easy to provide updates online at ehealthsask.ca.
Let eHealth know if you have had any changes in the last three years, such as:
• new address
• changes in your family (e.g. marriage, divorce, addition or removal of dependents)
If you have moved and already used Express Address and chose to update your health card, no action is required.
Renewal stickers will extend your current health card and service coverage until Dec. 31, 2029; put them on your card as soon as they arrive. If your health card expires, you could be billed for medical services.
Letter to the Editor
Cellphone Transaction Turns Violent
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) are investigating an incident involving a stabbing and the discharge of a firearm that occurred during an attempted cellphone sale on the evening of June 21st.
At approximately 10:20pm, SPS were called to the 400 block of Marlatte Crescent following reports that a firearm had been discharged. Shortly afterward, officers were dispatched to the 3800 block of Kochar Avenue for an injured person call involving a man who had reportedly been stabbed. Police quickly determined the two incidents were connected.
When officers arrived on Kochar Avenue, they located a 35-year-old woman and a 28-year-old man inside a vehicle. The man was transported to hospital with injuries believed to be consistent with a stabbing. His injuries were reported to be nonlife-threatening.
According to investigators, the victims had arranged to meet two individuals in the 400 block of Marlatte Crescent to sell a cellphone. During the meeting, a male and female suspect entered the victims’ vehicle. A short time later, a third male approached the driver’s side window carrying what appeared to be a firearm.
Police say that as the driver attempted to pull away, the male suspect seated in the back of the vehicle stabbed the man in the front seat. The male and female suspects then exited the vehicle before the third suspect reportedly discharged the firearm. All three suspects subsequently fled the scene in a vehicle.
The incident serves as a reminder for residents to take precautions when meeting strangers to buy or sell items through online marketplaces. Police recommend conducting transactions in public, well-lit locations and, when possible, bringing another person along. In Saskatoon, designated Buy and Sell Exchange Zones are available in the parking lot of Saskatoon Police Service Headquarters, providing a monitored location for completing online transactions safely. Residents are encouraged to consider using these designated areas when arranging sales with individuals they do not know.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is asked to contact the Saskatoon Police Service at 306-975-8300 or provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
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Search Continues After
Jet Ski Rider Goes Over Saskatoon Weir
Emergency crews continue to search the South Saskatchewan River after a jet ski rider went over the Saskatoon weir on the afternoon of June 20th.
At approximately 4:45pm, Saskatoon Police Service and Saskatoon Fire Department responded to numerous reports of a jet ski operator in distress near the weir at 33rd Street East and Spadina Crescent. Witnesses reported seeing the rider go over the weir and disappear beneath the water.
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Saskatoon Fire Department water rescue crews immediately launched a rescue operation using a specialized vessel designed for weir rescue situations. Members of the Saskatoon Police Service Aerial Support Unit, Missing Persons Unit, Forensic Identification Section and Tactical Support Unit also assisted in the response. Drones, aircraft and watercraft were deployed to search the river and surrounding shoreline. By the following day, officials announced that the operation had transitioned from a rescue mission to a recovery effort. The jet ski was recovered from the river and turned over to police investigators, while crews continued searching downstream and along both riverbanks. Sonar-equipped watercraft were later deployed to assist in the search.
On June 23, Saskatoon Police identified the missing rider as 32-year-old Adan Vargas Salvador, who was visiting Saskatoon from Mexico. Police said they remain in contact with his family as the search for his body continues. The family requested that his name and photograph be released publicly.
The incident occurred during a period of unusually high river flows. City officials noted that water levels and current speeds are significantly higher than normal, creating hazardous conditions on the river. The City of Saskatoon also reported that a safety boom normally installed upstream of the weir had recently been damaged by the fast-moving water and will be replaced when conditions allow.
Police and fire officials are reminding residents that the Saskatoon weir is extremely dangerous and should only be viewed from designated areas along Spadina Crescent. They caution that changing river conditions can create additional hazards and urge people to exercise caution while enjoying the river this summer.
Melville Man Charged After Two RCMP Officers Seriously Injured in Shooting
A Melville man is facing multiple charges after two RCMP officers were seriously injured during a shooting incident in the city on June 21st.
Following an ongoing investigation by Saskatchewan RCMP, 55-year-old Markus Dodge of Melville has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of aggravated assault, two counts of discharging a firearm with intent, two counts of pointing a firearm, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm.
Dodge also faces one count of uttering threats and one count of assault with a weapon in connection with an earlier altercation that police say led to the incident.
According to RCMP, officers were called to a residence on 8th Avenue West in Melville at approximately 9:35pm on June 21st following a report of an assault. Investigators determined an altercation had occurred between two individuals, during which Dodge allegedly threatened and assaulted another person. The victim did not report any physical injuries to police.
As responding officers arrived at the residence, a firearm was discharged and two Melville RCMP officers were struck. Both officers were transported to hospital by EMS with injuries described as serious in nature.
The armed suspect remained inside the residence following the shooting, prompting a large-scale police response. Members of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Critical Incident Response Team, including the Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services and Crisis Negotiation Team, were deployed to the scene. Officers from the Serious Crimes Unit, Saskatchewan’s Protection and Response Team, and Regina Police Service’s SWAT team also assisted.
RCMP assessed the need for a dangerous person alert throughout the incident but ultimately determined one was not required because the suspect was contained within the residence and there was no elevated risk to the public.
At approximately 2:00am on June 22nd, the suspect exited the residence and was taken into custody without further incident. Another occupant who left the residence at the same time was initially detained but later released and has since been cleared of any involvement.
Investigators recovered a firearm from the residence as part of the ongoing investigation.
The two injured officers remain in hospital in stable condition. RCMP said their injuries are serious and potentially life-altering. The force has thanked the public for its support while asking that the officers’ privacy be respected during their recovery.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Serious Crimes Unit continues to investigate. Anyone with information related to the incident is asked to contact RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267).
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
ABOVE: The missing rider has been identified as Adan Vargas Salvador, who was visiting Saskatoon from Mexio. (SPS)
574 Dakota Air Cadets Celebrate Another Successful Year at Annual Ceremonial Review
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The 574 Dakota Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron held their Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR) on Thursday, June 18th, marking the end of another successful training year while celebrating the achievements of its cadets and the squadron's continued growth in the community.
The Annual Ceremonial Review serves as the squadron's year-end showcase, featuring a formal parade, inspections, promotions in rank, and the presentation of awards and medals to deserving cadets. The ceremony is traditionally overseen by a Reviewing Officer, often a respected member of the local community.
This year's Reviewing Officer held special significance for the squadron. Mr. Harvey Thibault, the former Commanding Officer of 574 Air Cadet Squadron when it was based in Choiceland, returned to inspect the squadron during its milestone year.
The visit marked a full-circle moment for both Thibault and the squadron, as 2026 represents the 10th anniversary of 574 Dakota RCACS relocating to Martensville. The move from Choiceland was made due to declining cadet numbers, and over the past decade the program has flourished in its new home.
Squadron staff also took the opportunity to recognize the support of the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club, which has been a major sponsor since the squadron first established itself in Martensville.
"We wouldn't be where we are today without their support," said Civilian Instructor Colin Kunkel.
Today, the squadron boasts more than 50 cadets from Martensville, Warman, Saskatoon, and communities as far away as Borden.
Throughout the year, cadets participate in a wide range of activities designed to develop leadership, citizenship, and aviation knowledge. Training opportunities include aviation-focused classes, bush survival training, citizenship activities, and hands-on experiences related to flight and aerospace.
One of the highlights of this year's program was a familiarization flight aboard a Beechcraft King Air aircraft, organized through the Department of National Defence. Aviation remains a key focus of the Air Cadet program, with cadets also participating in airport tours, glider flights, and powered aircraft experiences.
Beyond aviation, the squadron places a strong emphasis on community service. Cadets regularly participate in local fundraising and volunteer initiatives, including Tag Day campaigns, poppy sales on behalf of the Duck Lake Legion, and community events such as Buster Days. Each year, cadets also assist the Martensville Fire Department with packing Christmas hampers for local families.
"We're showing them what it takes to be a good citizen and contribute to their local community," Kunkel said.
The squadron's continued success is reflected in its growing membership, with new cadets joining each year through recruitment efforts, community visibility, and positive word-of-mouth from current members.
An important aspect of the program's accessibility is that participation is completely free. Cadets are provided with uniforms at no cost, ensuring youth from all backgrounds can take advantage of the opportunities available.
"The Cadet Program offers so many different opportunities, from going to summer camps, to becoming a great public speaker, to earning your glider pilot wings, to making lifelong friends," Kunkel added.
For staff members, one of the most rewarding experiences is watching young people develop over their years in the program.
"It's satisfying to watch a shy kid at 12 years of age walk in the front door and then watch them walk out the door at 18 as a confident, mature young Canadian who knows that the hard work they put into being a cadet will serve them their entire life."
As 574 Dakota RCACS celebrates a decade in Martensville, squadron leaders say the continued growth and strong community support demonstrate the positive impact the program has had on local youth.
"I've said it numerous times, and that is the cadet program is the best youth program going in all of Canada," declared Kunkel.
