May 21, 2026 Digital Issue

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Your City; Your Newspaper May 21, 2026

VOLUME NO. 20 - ISSUE 22

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ABOVE: Timbits U5 began their season on Sunday, May 17th in Martensville. This learn-to-play introductory softball program is for boys and girls put on by the Twin City Angels softball program for U5, U7, U9, U11 Boys and Girls, along with a Competitive and Recreational softball program for Girls in U11, U13, U15, U17, and U19.

The focus of the U5 program is on the basics of softball throwing and catching, hitting a ball off a tee, running to a designated base, and ending with some fun games for the kids.

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Page 2 - MAY 21, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Committee of the Whole Meeting Recap – May 12th, 2026

Development Charges Bylaw 7-2026 - Administration presented a proposed Development Charges Bylaw outlining fees for new development to help recover infrastructure and service costs related to growth. Council discussed extending the current 2-year payment timeline for developers to 5 years, with one-fifth payable annually or upon the sale of a lot. The bylaw will proceed to the next regular Council meeting for first reading.

Payment in Lieu of Parking - The property owner at 101 Centennial Drive South has submitted a request for Payment in Lieu of Required Off-Street Parking related to a proposed commercial redevelopment and building addition. Under the Zoning Bylaw, the proposed shopping centre development requires 33 parking stalls; however, the submitted site plan includes 31 stalls, resulting in a deficiency of two stalls. Administration reviewed the application in accordance with the Zoning Bylaw, which allows Council to exempt required parking spaces through a Payment in Lieu Agreement. The application will proceed to the next regular Council meeting for formal approval.

Reallocation of 2025 Capital Funding - Administration is recommending reallocating $23,000 from the 2025 Capital Budget carry-over to fund flooring upgrades at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion and the Heritage Centre. he MAP lobby flooring has been identified as slippery and reliant on loose mats that present a tripping hazard, while additional office upgrades are needed to improve functionality and acoustics. Flooring at the Heritage Centre is also in deteriorating condition, with lifting tiles creating tripping hazards and the potential for further damage to the subfloor. The request will proceed to the next regular Council meeting for formal approval.

CCBF Fund Application – Centennial Drive North Upgrade - Administration presented the Centennial Drive North Upgrade project application under the 2026 Canada CommunityBuilding Fund (CCBF) program. The CCBF provides annual funding to municipalities for local infrastructure projects and requires detailed project applications for approval. The proposed project includes upgrades to aging roadway infrastructure, modern stormwater management improvements, and enhanced pedestrian safety along this key arterial road. The total project cost is $2,187,090, with $1,341,800 requested through the CCBF program and the remaining costs funded by the City. The application will proceed to the next regular Council meeting for formal approval.

Waste Bylaw Amendment Bylaw 18-2025 - Administration presented proposed amendments to the Waste Bylaw related to upcoming changes to recycling and waste collection services.

Currently, all residential properties pay the same annual Garbage & Recycling Levy, despite differences in service levels between individual residential carts and large-bin multi-unit properties. The proposed amendments would update waste collection requirements for multiunit residential buildings using large bins and help create a more equitable cost recovery model for all users of the service. The bylaw will proceed to the next regular Council meeting for formal approval.

ATV Bylaw - Fire Chief Brooman presented Council with a proposed ATV Bylaw that would establish designated ATV routes within Martensville, introduce a local ATV plate system, and support public education and safety training for ATV operation. Council discussed concerns related to enforcement and emphasized the importance of confirming RCMP support for enforcing the bylaw. Questions were also raised regarding inconsistencies between permitting ATV use in back alleys while also referencing operation on roadways. Administration will complete additional review and revisions before bringing the proposed bylaw back to Council.

Martensville Council Discusses Multi-Million Dollar Infrastructure Projects Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville City Council tackled several major infrastructure and recreationrelated items during its final regular meeting of May on Tuesday evening.

Among the motions before Council was approval of the City’s application for funding through the 2026 Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) for Phase 1 of the Centennial Drive North upgrades. The proposed project would see approximately 425 metres of roadway replaced, along with new storm sewer infrastructure, sidewalks, and pedestrian safety improvements. The total estimated cost of the project was listed at $2,187,090, with $1,341,800 requested through the federal funding program and the remaining amount to be funded by the City.

While this work is being completed, residents will experience some road closures and temporary access routes within the area. Information about work plan details and timelines will be provided by the City of Martensville as they are available.

Council was also expected to consider a Payment in Lieu of Parking Agreement related to the proposed redevelopment and expansion of the former Mr. Mike’s building at 101 Centennial Drive South. The application requested approval for 31 parking stalls rather than the 33 required under the City’s Zoning Bylaw, with the deficiency addressed through a payment-in-lieu agreement.

Another major item on the agenda was the awarding of the Joint Water Wastewater Project contract. Administration noted that three bids had been received following the request for qualification process, with the lowest bid submitted by Marathon Underground Constructors Corp. in the amount of $17,777,026.80. Provincial and federal funding would cover $12,087,200 of the project, leaving the City responsible for approximately $5.69 million.

The Director of Recreation and Planning was also recommending approval of the 2026–2029 rental and admission rates for the Martensville Recreation Centre (MRC). The proposal included annual increases of three per cent to rental rates and four per cent increases to drop-in admission fees. Council was expected to consider the recommendation during Tuesday’s meeting.

Spring Monster Garage Sale: May 22-23 | Presented by NPD & Canwest

Turn your pre-loved items into someone else’s new favourite finds by taking part in the Monster Garage Sale!

Register your house by May 20 online, at the MAP, or at City Hall to secure your spot. Flyers featuring a map of participating houses will be available at local gas stations, the MAP, and City Hall.

Martensville Aquatic Centre – Opens July 1st

Get ready for another summer full of public swimming, recreational programs, swimming lessons, and family fun at the pool. Be sure to check out the latest pool schedules, admission information, and upcoming events at Martensville.ca.

Upcoming Events

May 21 – Disc Golf begins May 21 – Play & Learn with Mobile Early Learning at the Library May 22-23 – NPD & Canwest Spring Monster Garage Sale May 31 – Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides

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 2 – Regular Council Meeting June 9 – Committee of the Whole Meeting June 16 – 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.

Yard Waste Site

Whether you’re trimming trees, raking leaves, or cleaning up grass clippings, the City’s yard waste site is a great resource for residents to dispose of yard waste responsibly.

This site is located along 10th Ave S., south of the off-leash dog park, and is open 7 days a week. Please visit Martensville.ca for more information on accepted and not accepted items.

Please note: - The site is intended for local, residential use. It is not open to commercial contractors.

- The site is monitored to prevent the dumping of garbage. Please only dispose of accepted waste at the site.

- A pruning ban on elm wood is in effect for the province from April 1st – August 31, in response to the spread of Dutch Elm Disease (DED).

In addition to the major motions, Council’s agenda included first reading of the proposed Development Charges Bylaw, amendments to the Waste Bylaw, and amendments to rental and admission rates.

The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, June 2nd at 5:00pm in Council Chambers at City Hall. For more information, visit Martensville.ca.

ABOVE: Construction is expected to begin soon on Phase 1 of the Centennial Drive North Upgrade Project. The project includes approximately 425 metres of roadway replacement, along with new storm sewer infrastructure, sidewalks, and pedestrian safety improvements. Residents can expect temporary road closures and access changes while work is underway.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - MAY 21, 2026 - Page 3

Prairie Sky Chamber Celebrates Regional Businesses at 2026 BEXA Gala Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce celebrated business success and community leadership during the 2026 Business Excellence Awards (BEXA) Gala held May 9th at the North Ridge Community Centre in Martensville.

The annual event brought together local businesses, community leaders, and supporters from across the region to recognize outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship, customer service, innovation, and community involvement.

Several businesses were honoured throughout the evening for their contributions to the local business community.

Taking home the New Business Award was WAG Dog Daycare & Boarding Centre, recognized for quickly establishing itself within the community and providing trusted pet care services to local families.

The Small Business Award was presented to Stu's Indoor Golf, while the Business Marketing Award went to Zak's Home Hardware Building Centre for its strong promotional efforts and community presence.

Carter's Counselling Services earned the Customer Service Award, recognizing its dedication to supporting clients and providing compassionate care.

Zak’s Home Hardware Building Centre was also recognized with the Community Involvement Award for its continued support of local initiatives, organizations, and events throughout the Prairie Sky region.

The Employer of the Year Award was presented to Jason's Auto Glass, highlighting the company’s commitment to creating a positive and supportive workplace environment for staff.

Closing out the evening, Rave BBQ Rubs was named Business of the Year, recognizing the company’s continued growth, innovation, and impact within the business community.

In announcing the winners, the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce extended congratulations to all recipients and nominees who continue to help strengthen and grow the local business community.

The BEXA Awards continue to serve as an opportunity to celebrate the entrepreneurs, organizations, and community-minded businesses that contribute to the success and vibrancy of the Prairie Sky region.

Residents Invited to Help Shape the Future of Martensville Library Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville Library is asking residents to help shape the future of library services through a new community survey now available to the public.

The survey, which launched May 15th and will remain open until June 15th, is intended to gather feedback from residents about the library’s current services, as well as ideas for future programming and growth opportunities as the community continues to expand.

The local library is seeking feedback about the library as it is now, and ideas for what it should be in the future, with feedback being sought from a wide range of residents, including regular library users, infrequent users, and even those who do not currently use the library.

“The more feedback we receive, the better we can understand and serve the needs of our community,” said Marla Skomar, Librarian at Martensville Library.

Residents who complete the survey will also have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win one of two $50 Co-op gift cards. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to enter the draw.

The survey can be completed online through SurveyMonkey by scanning the QR code on the poster or visiting https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CJ6CKS5. Paper copies are also available at the Martensville Library, City Hall, and the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP). Completed paper surveys can be returned to the Martensville Library located inside the Civic Centre at 66 Main Street.

Support the Martensville Library at Upcoming BBQ Fundraiser

ABOVE: Jason’s Auto Glass was the winner of the Employer of the Year Award at BEXA. (Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce)

The Martensville Library will also be hosting a BBQ fundraiser later this month in support of library operations and programming.

The fundraiser is scheduled to take place on Sunday, May 24th from 11:00am. to 1:00pm in the Co-op grocery store parking lot.

According to the Martensville Library Board, proceeds from the event will help support the day-to-day operation of the library, including programming, supplies, and materials.

Residents are encouraged to stop by, support the library, and enjoy lunch while helping contribute to local library services and community programming.

M

ARTENSVILLE

ESSENGER

ABOVE: Carter’s Counselling Services received the Customer Service Award at BEXA. (Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce)

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Editor/Office Manager: Shanine Sealey ssealey@martensvillemessenger.ca

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To Contact Us About Advertising: ABOVE: WAG Dog Daycare & Boarding Centre received the New Business Award at BEXA. (Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce)

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Page 4 - MAY 21, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Shop Local and Support a Good Cause at Funky Finds Market Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Residents are invited to kick off the spring outdoor market season during the Funky Finds Market taking place Saturday, May 23rd from 9:00am to 2:00pm in the Warman Home Centre Communiplex parking lot, located at 901 Centennial Boulevard in Warman.

Hosted by Dragonfly Events, the outdoor market will feature a wide variety of local vendors, makers, kidpreneurs, garage sale items, handmade goods, vintage finds, and small businesses, while also coinciding with the Warman area garage sale weekend.

Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a fun-filled day of shopping, entertainment, and local support. Visitors will also be able to check out a car show, enjoy food from the on-site concession, and meet adoptable dogs from New Hope Dog Rescue, which will be attending with several dogs that are available for adoption.

All money raised from vendor fees during the event will go toward purchasing school supplies for an upcoming clothing and school supply giveaway planned for August.

A number of local vendors and organizations are expected to attend, including the Martensville and Area Lions Club, Prairie Valley Scout Group, Kari’s Sourdough Baking, Sunset Gourmet, Avon, Collective Crystals, G-Pa’s Woodworking, Prairie Glow by MJ, Linda’s Decadent Delights, Baked by Lily, and many more.

New Hope Dog Rescue will also be accepting donations during the event.

Requested items include puppy or all-stage kibble, puppy formula, canned pumpkin or pumpkin powder, Fortiflora probiotic powder, laundry detergent, bleach, paper towel, black garbage bags, slow feeder bowls, durable dog toys, disposable pee pads, and martingale collars.

Organizers encourage residents to stop by, support local vendors, and enjoy a day filled with community spirit and springtime fun.

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Bridge City Warmth Supporting Hundreds Through Street Patrols and Community BBQs Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

What began as a small grassroots effort to support Saskatoon’s unhoused population has quickly grown into a major community-driven initiative making a significant impact across the city.

Bridge City Warmth, a volunteer organization focused on supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, continues to expand its outreach efforts through weekly street patrols, monthly community barbecues, fundraising initiatives, and donation drives.

According to the organization, each weekly street patrol now assists upwards of 200 community members, while monthly community BBQs serve more than 500 people.

The organization currently operates weekly ABOVE: Individuals recieving support from Bridge City Warmth show their gratitude to a volunteer. street patrols every (Submitted) Thursday from 6:15pm to 8:15pm, regardless of weather conditions. During the patrols, volunteers load up with food, clothing, blankets, and essential supplies before heading into Saskatoon’s core neighbourhoods to assist those in need.

Recently, Bridge ABOVE: The Street Patrol Bus was purchased thanks to City Warmth completed fundraising efforts, and the support of numerous individuals. a successful fundraiser to The addition of this bus allows BCW to transport more supplies purchase a street patrol and accommodate additional volunteers. (Submitted) bus, raising just over $15,000. Volunteers say the addition of the bus has been a “game changer” for the organization, allowing them to transport more supplies and accommodate additional volunteers during outreach efforts.

Special recognition was given to major supporters including Bud Chisholm, Terra Dionne, and the Martensville & District Kinsmen Club, which helped make the new patrol bus possible.

Bridge City Warmth currently has approximately 100 volunteers and seven donation drop-off locations, including five in Saskatoon, one in Martensville, and one in Warman. Residents interested in donating can contact bridgecitywarmth@gmail.com for drop-off information.

Among the most-needed donation items are blankets, jackets, hoodies, and snacks, although all donations are welcome. Additional requested items include toiletries, warm winter clothing, and gift cards that can be used to purchase food and necessities.

Volunteers say some of the biggest challenges currently facing Saskatoon’s unhoused population include the lack of affordable housing, along with access to food and warm clothing.

In addition to its regular outreach work, Bridge City Warmth will also be hosting a BBQ fundraiser at the Martensville Co-op on May 30th from 11:00am to 6:30pm.

Funds raised will support ongoing outreach efforts and supplies. The organization also announced plans for a Vegas Night fundraiser scheduled for October in Martensville, with additional details expected to be released in the future.

Residents looking to learn more, volunteer, or contribute can find Bridge City Warmth on social media or contact the organization directly through email.

ABOVE: Bridge City Warmth volunteers gather on Thursdays from 6:15pm to 8:15pm for their Street Patrol, where they assist upwards of 200 individuals each week. (Submitted)

Great Plains College Announces New Full-Time Primary Care Paramedic Program in Warman Great Plains College is pleased to announce the addition of a new full-time Primary Care Paramedic (PCP) program at its Warman Campus, beginning in December 2026. This marks the first time the College has offered the PCP program in Warman, expanding access to in-demand emergency medical training in the region.

The one-year certificate program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, judgment and hands-on skills required to provide pre-hospital emergency medical care in high-pressure situations. The program includes classroom instruction, extensive practical training, and hospital and ambulance practicums completed in the Saskatoon region.

“Primary Care Paramedics play an integral role in our healthcare system and are often the first point of contact during medical emergencies,” said Keleah Ostrander, vice president, programs and students at Great Plains College. “By offering this training in Warman for the first time, we are responding to work-force needs in our communities while creating a local pathway for students to enter a high-demand, rewarding career in healthcare.”

Upon graduation, students will be eligible to write the provincial licensing exam for registration with the Saskatchewan College of Paramedics and begin their careers as Primary Care Paramedics, supporting emergency medical services in communities across Saskatchewan.

Applications are now open for the December 2026 intake. Due to strong interest in the program, pro-spective students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Applications received by October 31, 2026 will be automatically considered for an Entrance Scholarship of $500 to $3,000.

To learn more about the Primary Care Paramedic program or to apply, visit greatplainscollege.ca/pcp.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - MAY 21, 2026 - Page 5

Residents Reminded to Use Caution Following Coyote Sightings in Kinsmen Park

Residents in Martensville are being reminded to remain cautious around wildlife following recent coyote sightings in Kinsmen Park.

Coyotes are commonly seen throughout the region, particularly during the spring and summer months, and City officials are encouraging residents to take precautions to help keep both people and animals safe.

Residents are advised not to approach or feed coyotes and to ensure pets are supervised at all times. The City is also reminding residents to keep dogs leashed and avoid allowing pets to roam freely in parks or neighbourhoods where wildlife may be present.

Officials are also asking residents not to leave out open garbage, litter, pet food, or other materials that may attract wildlife into residential or recreational areas.

While coyote sightings are not uncommon, the City says residents should be alert for any unusual behaviour. Coyotes approaching people, limping, staggering, or appearing confused should not be approached.

Anyone who observes a coyote acting abnormally is asked to contact the RCMP Office at 306-975-1610 or Martensville Bylaw Enforcement at 306-229-6859.

SAS Home & Floral Boutique Announces End of an Era Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger SAS Home & Floral Boutique has held a special place in the Martensville business community for many years, offering home décor, gifts, and floral arrangements to local residents and beyond. Owned by sisters Teresa Helperl and Joelle Sweitzer, the boutique is more than a flower and gift shop—it is a reflection of family, love, and their deep connection to the community they cherish.

Over the years, SAS has grown into a beautiful inviting store offering both florals and home décor including candles, bath and body products, handbags, and trends that help customers create a home they love. Its floral services have included everyday arrangements, weddings, memorials, and special-event designs. The walk-in cooler is regularly stocked with fresh grab-and-go options, and the team is always ready to create custom orders for a wide range of occasions with delivery to Martensville and area.

They recently shared on their FB page that, “What began as a dream and a leap of faith grew into something far more meaningful than they ever could have imagined,” and after 15 unforgettable years, the sisters have made the tough decision to sell SAS Home and Floral.

Part of the dream and reason this venture was so meaningful to them was because of the mother that they lost and why it was so important to name it after her.

“Naming the shop after our mom made this more than a business to us – It make it deeply personal. In so many of the joyful moments, and even in the hardest ones, we felt her presence with us. SAS became a place filled with love, memory and a sense of home we will always treasure.

“Our families have been our steady support through every season They were there for the everyday tasks – unpacking boxes, sweeping floors, making deliveries – but also for the moments that mattered most, offering encouragement, understanding and love when we needed it most.

They also expressed their gratitude to the customers and what they meant to them over the years.

“We have cherished every visit, every conversation, and every opportunity to help mark life’s meaningful moments. Whether you came to celebrate, to comfort, or simply to browse, it has been an honor to be welcomed into your lives in ways we will never forget.”

Looking ahead, they believe SAS Home & Floral still has so much beauty and potential. Their hope is that someone new will carry the dream forward and pour their heart into it to make it their own.

Moving forward everything at the store will remain the same until they reach an agreement with a new buyer or, come to the end of their lease (December 2026).

“We’ve had quite a bit of interest and have some meetings set up with prospective buyers so that’s really exciting for us! Any weddings that we have booked will be done by us, even if the store is sold to someone else, but we aren’t taking any new bookings for special events or weddings.”

Flower availability will remain unchanged and they will still be taking online and phone orders as well as having the cooler full with grab-and-go options.

“We are really counting on the community to give us full support during this transition time!”

SAS Home & Floral Boutique is located at 239 Centennial Drive S #5 in Martensville. You can visit in person, shop online at https://sashomeandfloral.square. site/, or follow the business on social media for any updates.

BELOW: Owners Teresa & Joelle celebrate the end of an era at SAS Home & Floral Boutique.

MWEYLC Has Short Week Ahead

Martensville Warman Early Years Learning Centre has a short week ahead, beginning with the immunization clinic on Wednesday, May 20. Prairie Hope Wellness will present on Behavior Management during Sip and Chat on Thursday, and Delany will lead an afternoon Language and Literacy workshop. To support children’s cognitive development, they will wrap up the week with Kindermusik and water sensory play on Friday.

Page 6 - MAY 21, 2026 - MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER

Tips and Tricks to Avoid SHA Increases Frequency of Ticks Emergency Service Disruption S p r i n g weather and warmer Updates temperatures increase

As of May 19th, emergency service disruption information is publicly reported twice daily, at 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. You can view these updates by visiting https:// www.saskhealthauthority.ca/news-events/service-disruptions.

This page provides updates twice-daily on current and upcoming (within 24 hours) temporary disruptions of emergency services at Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) facilities across the province. Disruptions to emergency services of any length are posted on this page and are also reflected on individual Facility & Location pages.

The SHA makes every effort to maintain emergency services by securing staff and physician coverage wherever possible. Temporary disruptions are only implemented as a last resort and may be caused by staff or physician vacancies, unplanned absences, scheduled vacations, or facility and equipment upgrades.

As changes to service availability can occur on short notice, not all disruptions may appear immediately. When this happens, signage is posted at the affected facility, and the information will be reflected in the next scheduled update.

Patients and families are encouraged to call Healthline 811 toll-free, 24 hours a day, for advice regarding service availability or to access health guidance from Registered Nurses and other qualified health professionals.

The SHA is committed to providing patients, families, and communities with clear and timely information about emergency care. To strengthen emergency services in rural and remote areas, the SHA has implemented several initiatives, including the Virtual Physician Program, Point-of-Care Testing, and ongoing health-care human resource strategies.

In any life-threatening emergency, always call 9-1-1. Paramedics will assess, treat, and transport patients to the nearest available site for further medical attention.

Expansion of Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine Residents to benefit as options for addiction treatment expands to more communities

The Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine (VAAM) program is expanding to additional communities and surrounding areas, including Arborfield, Carrot River, Choiceland, Esterhazy, Hudson Bay, Kahkewistahaw First Nation, La Ronge, Melville, Pinehouse, Porcupine Plain, Tisdale and Yorkton.

The VAAM program provides Saskatchewan residents with substance use disorder access to physicians, nurses and counsellors who specialize in addiction medicine. The goal is to make treatment easier to reach, especially for people in rural and remote areas who may not have a local prescriber.

"This program reduces transportation barriers and improves access to life saving addiction medicine for individuals with substance use disorder," Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr said. "Expanding this program will help more residents across our province on their recovery journey."

Intake, assessment and treatment are provided by videoconferencing or telephone in collaboration with existing local supports such as labs for urine drug screening, mental health and addiction outpatient services for counselling and pharmacists for dispensing medication.

"Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine is continuing to bring care closer to home for the people across Saskatchewan," Mental Health and Addictions Services SHA Executive Director Zoe Teed McKay said. "By offering timely, virtual access to physicians, nurses and counsellors, we are reducing barriers and meeting people where they are. This patients-first approach supports people navigating challenges with substance use in accessing compassionate, respectful care and connecting to the services they need on their well-being and recovery journey."

The Government of Saskatchewan has provided $3.6M to increase access to addictions medicine, which includes the VAAM program and additional supports for existing Opioid Agonist Therapy programs.

VAAM was initially launched in January in Lloydminster, Nipawin and Cumberland House - Cree Nation and Northern Village, along with all detox and treatment centres across the province.

Virtual Access to Addiction Medicine is open to individuals who: • live in the participating communities and/or are attending a detox or recovery treatment centre in the province; • are 18 years or older; • want help with substance use (eg. opioid, alcohol, stimulant or benzodiazepine use); • are open to discussing treatment options, including medication; and • don't currently have a prescriber.

For more details, visit the VAAM program at the SHA website.

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.

tick activity across the province. Saskatchewan residents are being reminded to take precautions to reduce their risk of exposure to ticks.

Tick bites occur most often from early spring to fall. In Saskatchewan, the most common tick species in spring and early summer are Dermacentor species—namely the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. These ticks typically become active at this time of year, with peak activity occurring in May and June. The risks are higher in areas with tall grass, brush, and wooded areas, and during activities with longer-term exposure in these environments like camping, hiking, or hunting. As temperatures rise in July and August, their activity declines as they retreat underground.

“You can take simple steps to prevent and manage tick bites before and after going outdoors. While most tick bites don’t cause diseases, blacklegged ticks may cause Lyme and other tick-borne diseases and are showing up in places they haven’t before,” said Dr. Simon Kapaj, a SHA Medical Health Officer. “You can protect yourself and your family against tick and insect bites by following simple measures when you spend time in an area where ticks may live.”

People with pets who are active in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas should be especially aware to monitor for ticks. Here are simple things you can do to reduce your exposure to ticks: • Wear pants, long-sleeved shirts, and shoes that don’t show your bare feet.

• Tuck your pant legs into your socks to prevent ticks from crawling up your legs.

• Wear light-coloured clothes so ticks can be easily seen.

• Put on bug spray with DEET or Icaridin. Re-apply as directed on the product • Stay on paths and avoid contact with tall grass and overgrown brush when hiking.

• Check yourself, children, and pets for ticks after being outside.

• Shower or bathe as soon as possible after being outside to wash off loose ticks.

• Regularly check household pets which go into tall grass and wooded areas.

• Remove any ticks you find using tweezers. Take a photo of it and send it to eTick.ca. (www.etick.ca) Lyme Disease Risk - In Saskatchewan, the chance of people being exposed to Lyme disease from a tick bite is very low, but it is not zero. Most ticks in Saskatchewan are American dog ticks or wood ticks and do not transmit Lyme disease which is spread by the blacklegged tick. Migrating birds and animals are the suspected source of blacklegged ticks found in the province. No reproducing populations of blacklegged ticks have been detected in the province since active field surveys began in 2008.

Between 2019 and 2025, there have been 18 cases of Lyme disease reported in the province. All cases were associated with travel outside the province or Canada to areas where blacklegged ticks are more common. Case numbers include preliminary data for 2025 and are subject to change.

Safe Removal - Find instructions for safe tick removal and a video demonstration at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/diseases-and-conditions/lyme-disease If you are bitten by a tick, carefully remove the tick (if possible) and clean the area with soap and water. Monitor for signs of Lyme disease by checking for a “bullseye” rash which often develops at the bite site. Other symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. It is recommended that people consult a physician immediately if they develop symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease after a tick bite. If untreated, Lyme disease may affect the joints, the heart, and nervous system.

MARTENSVILLE MESSENGER - MAY 21, 2026 - Page 7

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Public Assistance Required To Identify Man In Luring Incidents

The Saskatoon Police are currently requesting assistance from the public in identifying a male that has been the subject of two complaints from customers at two separate retail businesses on the east side of the city.

On March 7, 2026 just before 10:00 a.m., in the car seat section of a large department store in the 1700 block of Preston Ave. N., the male was reported to have approached a six year old girl and motioned for her to step away from her family and approach him.

On April 9, 2026 at 12:45 p.m.., in the children’s section of a retail store in the 3100 block of 8th St. E., the male was reported to have motioned for a four year old girl to approach him.

Surveillance video from both stores has been reviewed and it is believed that the male involved in both incidents is the same person.

The male is described as being in his 50’s, Caucasian in appearance and clean shaven. The male wore a black Under Armour ball cap in both instances. Worn in the Preston Ave. incident was a black jacket with grey shoulders, blue jeans and black runners. Worn in the 8th St. E. incident was a black jacket, tan pants and black runners.

To further investigate the actions and intentions of the male involved, the police are requesting that anyone who may be able to assist in identifying the male contact police at 306-975-8300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

ABOVE: Police provided an image captured from surveillance footage of the suspect involved in the luring incidents.

(Saskatoon Police)

Saskatchewan RCMP: Wanted Persons

The Saskatchewan RCMP has released its monthly list of wanted individuals believed to be residing in communities throughout the province.

According to RCMP, the individuals included on the list have active warrants and were last known to be living in Saskatchewan. Police say those selected to appear on the list were identified based on a review of their current criminal charges and the potential harm they may present to communities across the province.

RCMP noted that the list is not a complete list of all wanted individuals in Saskatchewan. Those featured are selected through a data-driven scoring system using the Crime Severity Index, a Statistics Canada measurement that considers both the number and relative severity of crimes. RCMP stated that factors such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, religion, sexuality, or disability are not considered in the scoring process.

The May 2026 list includes 10 individuals wanted on a variety of charges, including assault, robbery, firearm offences, forcible confinement, sexual assault, trafficking in persons, and failing to comply with court orders. The individuals named on the list are Pierre Bouchard, Jonathan Bear, Stephan Littlepine, Jonesy Cote, Brenden Taylor, Barry Merasty, Charnelle Swiftwolfe, Summer Durocher, Ava Michel, and Jonas Sewap.

RCMP says the purpose of publicly releasing the list is to encourage tips and information from the public that may assist investigations and help lead to arrests.

The list is updated and distributed monthly. To view the list, visit https://rcmp.ca/en/ saskatchewan/news/2026/05/4343801 Police are reminding residents not to attempt to contact, approach, or apprehend any wanted individuals on their own. Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts, activities, or associations of a wanted person is asked to contact RCMP by calling 310-RCMP (7267) or 911 in an emergency.

Hate Crime Unit Assisting in Investigation After Church Incident

Saskatoon Police patrol members are investigating a complaint regarding damage to property on the weekend.

At approximately 10:00 a.m., May 16, 2026, a man was witnessed striking a gas line with an axe, outside a church in the 3400 block of Fairlight Drive.

When officers arrived at the scene the man had fled. Fortunately attempts to sever the line were not successful and no one was injured.

The male is described as 25-35 years of age with a dark goatee. He was wearing a black jacket with a hood, grey sweatpants and black running shoes with white socks.

Members of the SPS Hate Crime Unit are assisting due to the fact the incident occurred at a religious gathering place.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the SPS at 306-975-8300 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477.

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