November 11, 2021

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Your City; Your Newspaper November 11, 2021

VOLUME NO. 15 - ISSUE 43

Monday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 10-3 Closed Sundays & Holidays

17 Centennial Drive North

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Remembrance Day Celebrations Legends Centre in Warman 10:30 am Thursday, Nov. 11 In-Person (Invite only) Virtually - City of Warman Facebook page livestream SaskTel Centre Walk-Through Memorial Virtual Display Nov. 11 12-5pm Open to Public Free of Charge Proof of Vaccination for ages 12 and up or Certified Negative Test within 72 hours prior

We Remember

A home in Martensville has been getting lots of attention due to the home-made Remembrance Day display adorned on their lawn. See more on page 5.

Shanine Sealey/MM

For the brave who gave their lives so we could live ours

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Proof of Vaccination, Living with Covid-19, Testing Kits Effective October 1, 2021, a provincial requirement for proof of vaccination or negative test will be implemented for public access to a list of establishments, businesses, and event venues that bring groups of people together, including: Indoor dining at restaurants.

Nightclubs, bars, taverns, and other licensed establishments.

Event and entertainment venues, including conference centres, casinos, movie theatres, concert venues, live-music venues, museums, and indoor facilities hosting ticketed sporting events.

Indoor fitness centres, and gyms.

More detail can be found at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19 under Public Health Orders COVID-19 will continue to circulate, particularly among unvaccinated populations. Being fully vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19 and all residents will continue to be offered first and second doses through pharmacies and Saskatchewan Health Authority clinics.

Watch for vaccination clinics and opportunities for vaccinations are through pharmacies and pop-up clinics.

A list of upcoming clinics saskatchewanhealthauthority.ca

throughout

the

province

is

available

at

www.

Rapid Testing Kits

As a way to continue to monitor and prevent further spread of COVID-19 within the community and region, rapid testing kits have begun to be made available from various businesses or organizations. As of October 22nd, the Martensville Fire Department was distributing kits on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 3-5 PM. Canalta Hotel-Martensville also had kits available for distribution from 7 AM-11 PM. Distribution is available while supplies last.

A comprehensive Provincial list of where to obtain kits was not yet available but continue to follow local media for updates around availability locally and in the Province.

Recreation Program Update - Martensville Sip n’ Shop, Play & Skate with Santa Martensville Sip n’ Shop - At the North Ridge Centre on November 26th, $2 Admission, from 4:30 PM- 9:30 PM. Offering an opportunity to shop at this tradeshow while enjoying a beverage with friends after work.

Play & Skate with Santa - Play & Skate with Santa will take place on Sun., Dec. 12th at the Sports Centre. It will be an afternoon full of fun activities for kids! You can go on a sleigh ride, skate, take a picture with Santa, get a candy bag, warm up with hot chocolate, and much more!

All programs are run in compliance with current COVID-19 regulations

RCMP Provides Update to Council During Committee of the Whole

Civic Services Under the Lifting of the Public Health Order - What You Should Know!

City Hall is Open - Masks are mandatory in indoor public spaces as of September 17th.

Online and contactless payment options remain available for customer convenience, such as online banking, e-transfers, preauthorized payments or TIPPS. Cheques can also be dropped off after hours in the drop slot at City Hall.

Please do not visit City Hall if you are feeling unwell, experiencing flu-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone who is presumptive or tested positive for COVID-19.

Current Status of Public Facilities as of October 15th Masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces as of September 17th.

Martensville Athletic Pavilion - Operations completely resuming, including drop-in programs. Contact the MAP or Martensville.ca for information on upcoming programs or questions.

Aquatic Centre - Closed for the season City Hall - Open North Ridge Centre - Re-Opened for Bookings Heritage Centre - Re-Opened for Bookings Sports Centre - Open for the Season Wheatland Regional Library (located in the Civic Centre) - Open City Staff are available to work with the public via phone or email. Questions or inquiries can be directed to City Hall via phone (306-931-2166) or inquiry@martensville.ca After Hour Water and Sewer Emergencies- should still be directed through the Emergency line at City Hall, (306) 931-2166, ext.1.

Business Property Tax and Utility Update The City has re-implemented the suspension of interest on property taxes and utilies for commercial or industrial properties retroactive from November 2020 until July 31st, 2021.

Questions about Facilities or Programs? City Staff are available to work with the public via phone or email. Questions or inquiries can be directed to City Hall via phone (306931-2166) or inquiry@martensville.ca OR the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (306-6835576) or mapreception@martensville.ca.

November Council Meeting Dates

Please Note: With the commencement of Step 3, under the Provincial ‘Re-Opening Roadmap’ and ease of restrictions, upcoming Council Meetings are set to resume in person. Those still wishing to attend but would wish to do so virtually should contact the City Clerk.

Regular Council Meeting-November 16th The Regular Council Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers in Martensville City Hall at 37 Centennial Dr. S. All meetings commence at 5PM. 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.

Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The City of Martensville hosted their Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, November 9th. The meeting began with a delegation from the RCMP who presented some highlights from September and October. The report included items such as: - School zone patrols and an RCMP Member was added as a half-time SRO to help with schools within the community.

- COVID complaints are now being passed to the Saskatchewan Public Health Inspectors Office. Police will respond to disturb the peace and public safety calls; however, will not be issuing tickets for failure to abide with health mandates.

- Focus was on high risk driving in the North Ridge Community Centre and 3rd Street North area. In order to reduce this, members of the RCMP spoke with youth and parents at the Kyle Syrenne Skate Park regarding driving behaviors. Regular patrols through the area with high visibility marked cars and Bike Patrol members are also taking place regularly and members conducted a “surge” in the area to discourage this from happening.

- Traffic enforcement in regards to speeding was highlighted in October.

- 12 reported cases of Theft Under $5000 in October was due to “car shoppers”, which refers to individuals rummaging through unlocked cars.

Following the report from the RCMP, Director of Corporate Services Leah Bloomquist presented a Budget Variance Report to Council. In this report, Bloomquist noted several updates which included the budgeted total for street lights along three intersections on 10th Avenue being carried forward, the replacement of equipment at Andrea’s Park will be moved to next year, entrance signs budgeted under the Beautification Committee will not proceed as planned due to the design not being completed and approved, as well as other items. The full report is included in this week’s agenda and can be viewed at www.martensville.ca.

This meeting also included a report from Community Economic Development Manager Dillon Shewchuk who provided an update to Council on site inquiries, business activities, as well as marketing and communications.

Councillor Jamie Martens, who is currently serving her second term within Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), provided an update of her role and the various committees that she is appointed to within FCM.

The next Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 16th at 5pm in City Hall or can also be attended virtually.

More Ways to Pay!

The City of Martensville is now accepting Interac e-Transfer as a payment option for your Property Taxes as well as utility bill and licensing fees. E-Transfers can be provided using payments@martensville.ca. Please reference your roll number or account number when making payment.

The Deadline for 2021 was July 31st Questions about Taxation can be directed to City Hall at 931-2166.

martensville messenger - NOVEMBER 11, 2021 - Page 3

STARS Air Ambulance Were on Scene Following Highway 305 Accident Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

On Friday, November 5th, at approximately 12:30pm Warman RCMP responded to a report of a collision on the Highway 305 and Highway 11 overpass, located north of Saskatoon near Warman.

In addition to Warman RCMP, Warman Fire Rescue, Medavie Ambulance and STARS Air Ambulance were on scene.

Highway 305 was blocked in both directions as emergency crews were on scene; however, Highway 11 was open to traffic.

A total of ten people in two vehicles; a car and an SUV were involved in the accident. The car rolled down the overpass and all three individuals were transported to the hospital with injuries. No injuries were reported to police by the occupants of the SUV.

Warman Fire Rescue reported a total of seven minor injuries, with two trauma patients being taken to the hospital via Medavie Ambulance and one trauma patient transported by STARS Air Ambulance.

Highway 305 was re-opened at approximately 2pm and RCMP noted that the investigation into the incident was ongoing.

Photo: Warman Fire Rescue

Charges Laid After Driver Clocked at 170km/h

On the night of November 5th, Corman Park Police Service spotted a vehicle that appeared to be racing another vehicle on the west side of Martensville. The driver was clocked at 170km/hr and a traffic stop was conducted.

CPPS members discovered that the driver had an outstanding warrant

with Saskatoon Police Service and was therefore arrested. During the arrest, a significant amount of cash, along with cocaine was found on the driver, who was charged with possession of a controlled substance. The driver was turned over to the Martensville RCMP pending further investigation and the vehicle was impounded due to excessive speed.

Multiple Charges Laid Following Traffic Stop Near Martensville

On November 4, Corman Park Police Service received a hit for a wanted person associated to a vehicle that had passed by and registered on the patrol unit’s automatic license plate reader.

The member attempted to turn around and execute a traffic stop; however, the vehicle fled into a residential area on the south end of Martensville.

Approximately 20 minutes later, the vehicle was spotted by CPPS driving left of centre on RR 3054 south of Martensville, where a traffic stop was executed.

The driver was arrested for outstanding warrants from Saskatoon Police Service for drug trafficking. The driver showed signs of impairment and provided a breath sample into an ASD, which resulted in a WARN and the driver was issued a 72hour license suspension and the vehicle was impounded for three days.

The driver is also facing charges of breach of conditions x2, possession of methamphetamine, cocaine and ecstasy, possession of alcohol in a motor vehicle and driving left of centre. CPPS transported the driver to SPS headquarters and was held for court to answer to the drug trafficking charges.

LEFT: STARS Air Ambulance attended a vehicle collision on Friday, November 5th at the Highway 305 and Highway 11 overpass and transported one occupant to hospital.

(Warman Fire Rescue)

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Page 4 - NOVEMBER 11, 2021 - martensville messenger

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KEEPING YOU SAFE & ON THE ROAD

SPORTS

Keep the Community up-to-date on your team scores, events, photos and tournaments. Submit material to jhayward@sasktel.net or drop it off at the Martensville Messenger Office at Bay #7 - 301 Centennial Drive North to be included in our weekly sports report.

Janine Hayward Martensville Messenger

ABOVE: The Martensville Maddogs Bantam team took on the Saskatoon Steelers for the Division Championship on Saturday, November 6th and came out victorious. This win ended an undefeated season for the team, and also marked the first Maddogs team within the organization to make it to the league final. (Shanine Sealey, MM)

Maddogs Have a Successful Weekend Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The PeeWee Maddogs kept the crowd on their feet in the KFL Bowl final on Saturday, November 6th at SMF Field. The game started with a TD called back for an illegal block, but had a good drive after that.

The offense came out strong and the first TD was scored. “You could see our confidence level go right through the roof, then they knew

that they could do it,” said Head Coach Grant Currie.

According to Currie, the team proceeded to play a good solid game right to the end when they scored what was the final touchdown to take the lead with five plays left at the three minute mark. “The defence held them and we took a knee to win the KFL Bowl.”

Thank You!

ABOVE: The PeeWee Maddogs played a great game on Saturday, November 6 at SMF field and came out as the KFL Bowl Champs.

BELOW: The MHS Royals defeated the Melville Cobras 62-25 in the Provincial Semi-Final on Nov. 6th.

Martensville SK 306-244-4950

Royals Head to Provincial Final Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

The Martensville High School Royals did it again.

The team went up against the Melville Cobras on Saturday, November 6th and came out with a 62-25 win, which now takes them into the Provincial Final on Saturday, November 13th on Wilson Field in Martensville at 1pm.

According to Coach Tyler Munday, the team was ready for the game and the energy that was radiating from the players pre-game was “off the charts”. The Royals lost the coin toss and kicked off Melville, with defence coming in strong with a quick two and out. From there, the Royals had the ball back in their hands and brought it down the field to score on their first possession of the game.

Melville came back to score shortly after, but the Royals were on a mission. A 65-yard touchdown from Brody Nelson put them back in the lead and following that play, Munday stated that the team had really settled in and defence was on a mission, not allowing their opponents to score again in the first half. At half-time, the Royals were up 42-7 after two touchdowns from Kaden Solomon, three from Brody Nelson and one from QB Latrell Brown.

In the second half, the Royals once again came out strong, receiving the kickoff and scoring another TD on the ground, giving them a 49-7 lead. Melville came back slightly trying to close the gap; however, it was too little, too late, and the Royals came out with the win.

This weekend’s game against Delisle will be the third time the Royals have taken them on this season. “The two teams are very familiar with each other. The head coach of Delisle was our offensive coordinator in 2019 when we won the silver medal in provincials,” Munday said.

The team will be focusing on film and practice this week, as Munday noted they are expecting it to be a very physical game on the 13th. “We need to work on planning disciplined football. In the last two games, we have been penalized more than we’d like and we can’t make mental mistakes against Delisle. They are a well-coached team with some very good football players.”

With 16 seniors on the team this year, Munday stated that he couldn’t think of a better way for these players to finish off their High School careers than with a Provincial title, so be sure to head out on Saturday to cheer on our hometown team.

“Our team would like to congratulate the KFL champion Maddogs on their great season and can’t wait to have those players come join the squad next and continue with the success our program has had over the last few seasons,” Munday stated.

“Thanks again to the community for all the support this season and hope we can get a huge crowd out for this Saturday. I'd like to thank Myles Loeffler for all the work he has put in this year to keep Wilson Field looking good, we really appreciate all the hours he has put in. Go Royals!!”

We are grateful for the past and present supporters of the Great Plains College Scholarship program as we celebrate National Philanthropy Day on November 15, 2021.

Giving the gift of education is a contribution that lasts a lifetime in the form of learning, opportunity and success. Thank you for making a difference as donors, sponsors and volunteers.

Junior Girls Get the Silver

2020-21 Donors: • City of Warman

• SGEU Education Sector

• Community Futures Mid-Sask

• Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA)

• Great Plains College President & Staff • Kessler Insurance

• Warman Community Association

LEARN MORE AT

greatplainscollege.ca / 1.866.296.2472

ABOVE: The Martensville High School Junior Girls Volleyball came in second to bring home the silver at the CVAC Conferences that were held in Melfort this past weekend.

martensville messenger - NOVEMBER 11, 2021 - Page 5

How to Attend Remembrance Day Ceremonies This Year Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

A Remembrance Day Ceremony will be taking place on Thursday, November 11th at the Legends Centre in Warman at 10:30am. This event will be offered both virtually and by invitation for in-person. In-person invites were provided to veterans, current personnel, and immediate household family members of those that have died.

The virtual ceremony will be available via the City of Warman YouTube Channel which can be found by visiting www.warman.ca, or through the City of Warman Facebook page livestream beginning at 10:30am.

Additionally, a ‘Walk-Through Memorial Virtual Display’ will be available at SaskTel Centre on November 11th from 12pm-5pm. This is open to the public and is free of charge to attend. This display consists of approximately 50 large format visuals that are located throughout the main concourse which represent reminders of the service and sacrifice of all veterans, both past and present, as well as the commitment and dedication of current Canadian Armed Forces and Emergency Personnel. To attend this display, proof of vaccination will be required for those ages 12 and up, or a certified negative test from no more than 72 hours prior is also acceptable.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, the traditional Remembrance Day Ceremonies at SaskTel Centre will not be held, and instead, a virtual service will be broadcast via Shaw Cable at 10:15am, or by visiting saskatoonremembers.ca.

ABOVE: Jan Diehl plans to include an additional 102 tributes to fallen soldiers for next year.

Martensville Resident Creates Display to Honour Fallen Soldiers Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Martensville resident Jan Diehl began creating a Remembrance Day display in her yard eight years ago, which initially began with one piece, and has since grown in size each year.

Every item in the display has been hand-made, as Diehl said she is unable to find Remembrance Day items to purchase. This year, the display includes poppies, flags, as well as a tribute to those who lost their lives in Afghanistan.

“This year, with what happened in Afghanistan, I knew I wanted to make a tribute to all our fallen soldiers.

I started at the end of August and it proved to be a much bigger undertaking than I had anticipated only getting 56 of the 158 soldier tributes done,” Diehl said.

Initially, Diehl was worried that it would be disrespectful to the families if not all of the tributes were

included; however, she decided to put the completed ones up for this year, with plans to finish the rest for next year.

“It was so hard having to take these huge stories and only being able to give such a tiny amount of detail for each of them,” Diehl added.

Diehl sets up a display for each holiday; however, for her, Remembrance Day is the most important to her. “Last Saturday, a veteran came here to see it and it was so heartbreaking to hear his stories. He thanked me for doing this and said that he is scared that soon they will all be forgotten. I hope that by putting my display up, it opens up the conversation with families to talk to their kids about the importance of Remembrance Day.”

The display can be found on the corner of Rockhill Lane and 9th Avenue South in Martensville.

Lest We Forget REMEMBRANCE DAY - NOVEMBER 11, 2021

Remembering those who have given so much for our freedom.

ABOVE: Each year, Jan Diehl adds more items to her Remembrance Day display. (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)

Terry Jenson, MLA Martensville-Warman 306-242-2111 office@terryjenson.ca

11105_Jenson_Martensville-Msnger_Remembrance-day_3x3.indd 1

2021-11-04 11:34:29 AM

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Improved Ambulance Service For Communities North of Saskatoon To Be Based in Martensville

The Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) are pleased to announce enhanced ambulance service for communities immediately north of Saskatoon beginning this month. The ambulance service will be based in the community of Martensville.

“Our government is following through on this spring’s budget commitment of $6.57 million to enhance emergency medical services in Saskatchewan,” MartensvilleWarman MLA Terry Jenson said on behalf of Minister of Health Paul Merriman. “As part of this commitment, we are providing $1.16 million in annual funding to the SHA to support enhanced ambulance services, address growing demand and improve response times for Martensville, Warman and other communities north of Saskatoon.”

“This funding will support the addition of one staffed ambulance for the area,” SHA Provincial Programs Executive Director Rod MacKenzie said. “Since provincial funding was announced in April, the SHA has been studying historical need and growing demands for ambulance services, response times to and from various communities just north of Saskatoon, and demographics and growth patterns for communities in the area to identify the response base for the new service.

“This enhancement will provide improved EMS service to supplement first responder services to the area and communities such as Warman, Martensville, Borden, Dalmeny, Hepburn, Langham, and Osler. We appreciate that our medical first responders will continue to provide their valuable services to the entire area.”

“We thank all of the communities and rural municipalities who participated in our consultations. We identified through those consultations that both Martensville and Warman would be excellent communities in which to base this service. “Martensville was chosen because it is more central to a slightly higher population of the area, decreasing the response distance and response times to a greater number of residents.”

Stick It To Covid: 80 Per Cent Of Eligible Saskatchewan Residents Fully Vaccinated

As of November 8, 80 per cent of eligible Saskatchewan residents have received at least two doses of COVID-19 vaccine.

As vaccination rates have increased, the number of new cases in Saskatchewan has gone down. The seven-day average of new cases is now 149, 70 per cent lower than its peak in late September, shortly after the proof of vaccination policy was introduced.

“Saskatchewan’s proof of vaccination policy has increased our COVID-19 vaccination rates the last few weeks, and I appreciate every person who made the choice to protect themselves and their loved ones against serious COVID-19 illness, particularly those under twelve who are unable to be vaccinated at this time,” Saskatchewan Health Minister Paul Merriman said.

“COVID-19 vaccines have proven to be safe, effective, and the best tool available to us to drive transmission rates down in the province.”

COVID-19 vaccinations need to continue, achieving the highest possible rates province-wide in order to reduce community transmission. This will protect children who cannot currently be vaccinated and those at highest risk for serious illness, as well as preserve health care capacity with planning for service resumption underway.

Public health officials continue to recommend all eligible residents be immunized, as there is variance in regional vaccination rates which will continue to contribute to community transmission of COVID-19. Information on vaccination rates by geographic zones is available daily at the COVID-19 dashboard.

Know Your Booster Eligibility - Many Saskatchewan residents are now eligible

for booster and third doses. If you are 65 and older, 50 years and older in northern and First Nations communities, a health care worker or have a significant health condition, check when you received your second dose. Learn more about eligibility for booster and third doses at Saskatchewan. ca/covid-19.

Vaccinations and Children Five to 11 Years - With the approval of vaccines for children ages five to 11 years, this population will be included in the provincial vaccination rate calculations. Following Health Canada’s approval and distribution of child vaccines to Saskatchewan, details on vaccination clinics will be announced.

Children can contract and transmit COVID-19. While the risk of serious illness and death due to COVID-19 appears lower in younger age groups, serious illness can still occur including symptoms associated with long COVID.

If you are a parent and unsure about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccine, please contact your family physician or primary health care provider. Billions of people have received COVID-19 vaccines worldwide; they are safe, effective and provide better protection against the most serious health effects of COVID-19 than the immune response generated by contracting COVID-19.

Stick it to COVID - Get Your Vaccination - The Saskatchewan Health Authority is holding vaccination clinics throughout the province. Watch for details on clinic locations and times are listed on the SHA website. Any changes to clinic hours and location will be updated online.

A map of pharmacies participating in COVID-19 vaccinations is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19pharmacies.

General COVID-19 Information General public inquiries may be directed to COVID19@health.gov.sk.ca.

The SHA will take a phased approach and start providing services 12 hours/ day in November and an additional 12 hours/day will begin in March 2022. Medavie Health Services West is the EMS area service provider who will set up and staff the Martensville response base.

“We look forward to getting to work with the City of Martensville as quickly as possible to put the resources in place to begin operations and improve ambulance service to all of the communities in this area,” Medavie EMS Chief Gerry Schriemer said.

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Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

martensville messenger - NOVEMBER 11, 2021 - Page 7

MLA Terry Jenson’s Report from the Legislature Gov’t COVID-19 Policies Lacking Clarity

That struggle of Premier Scott Moe and his Saskatchewan Party government with COVID-19 goes well beyond tough outcomes in this fourth wave. Right now, the problem is also a lack of clarity in the message it’s been sending out.

Sure, outwardly the government tells us COVID-19 is now a disease of the unvaccinated and that everyone should get vaccinated, but there’s been just enough ambiguity in the government message - messaging that’s often sounded more political than it really needs to be under the circumstances of a global pandemic - for some people to believe that it’s not essential that they be vaccinated. This inconsistent approach sure doesn’t seem to be doing the Sask. Party government many political favours.

A recent September-October Angus Reid poll showed a massive 29-percentage point drop in public confidence in its handling of COVID-19. This was likely driven by Saskatchewan’s recent horrific numbers - the worst or near the worst in the nation.

In, October Saskatchewan saw 156 COVID-19related deaths reported - a sharp rise from 96 in September.

It was the worst month, surpassing 151 COVID-19-related deaths in January before vaccines were widely available.

What is clear to most is that the government strategy wasn’t working in October that also saw sick ICU patients shipped to Ontario because ICU beds in Saskatchewan were all filled.

What’s less clear, however, is what the government has in mind to deal with this problem and why it hasn’t been more adamant in its get-people-vaccinated strategy.

In response to questions as how it intends to deal with this fourth wave, the government has said that it is confident that it can do it without further restrictions beyond what’s already been imposed. To the government’s point, COVID-19 daily case counts are going down. In fact, they are significantly down from their peak at more than 500 per day. The problem, however, is testing for COVID-19 is also significantly down, meaning cases may be going undetected and doctors attribute our case numbers and deaths to our lowest-in-the-nation vaccination rate.

As of this writing, less than 80 per cent of the eligible Saskatchewan population has been fully vaccinated.

Coincidentally, numbers show about 80 per cent of the cases are unvaccinated. Doctors say far too many people are arriving sick in hospitals not only unvaccinated, but also with no idea or suspicion that they are sick with COVID-19.

While a small percentage are anti-vaxxers or COVID-19deniers, most are simply uninformed or unaware, doctors tell us.

Medical professionals suspect this might be the outcome of ambiguity in government messaging - perhaps why it’s been so tough to get that last 15 to 20 per-cent of those eligible vaccinated.

While we are all again wearing masks and while we do need proof of vaccination to walk into restaurants, bars, concerts, sporting events and now even liquor stores (things this government earlier stated it was reluctant to impose), the government is willing to only go so far.

Proof of vaccination is not required at most places we shop. It’s not even required to sit in the Saskatchewan legislature, as we found in the saga of now independent Nadine Wilson removed from her former Sask. Party caucus after misleading in on her vaccination status.

Yet the Sask. Party shot down an NDP Opposition’s motion requiring all members to show vaccination proof, meaning Wilson only requires showing a negative COVID-19 test to take her seat.

Couple this with the government’s reluctance to follow recommendations in a letter signed by all its medical health officers to limit household gatherings (especially, for the unvaccinated) or to require vaccination proof for vaccine-eligible children to attend class.

It has made for a muddled government message as to what it deems acceptable and what it doesn’t and it is this lack of clarity that now may be the problem.

Debate Continues on Speech from the Throne

This week the Saskatchewan Legislature saw the continuation of the 2021 Speech from the Throne debate, which sets out our government's priorities for the future. Over the past year, we have worked together to do what was needed during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are now seeing the case numbers decrease, thanks to the actions you are taking.

Our government will continue to provide opportunities to receive vaccines and support our healthcare workers. In the past year, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $530 million to support the efforts to address COVID-19. While there is still more to do, our government will continue to invest in our province to build a stronger, safer, healthier, better educated and a more independent Saskatchewan.

Investments in Early Childhood Education

Our commitment to building a better educated Saskatchewan is reflected in our commitment to invest and support Early Childhood Educators (ECEs). To this end, we are investing $9.6 million to fund a wage increase of up to $3 per hour for qualified ECEs in the province. This investment recognizes the dedication of ECEs while creating an incentive for people to consider becoming ECEs themselves.

The wage increase is retroactive to July 1, 2021. It is anticipated that centres will be able to access the funds for distribution by December 2021. The increased amount will vary according to ECE certification levels with up to $1 per hour, $2 per hour, and $3 per hour for ECE certification level I, II, and III. The remaining amount from the $17 million investment will go toward funding accelerated ECE certificate or diploma training and supporting ECEs who participate in continuous professional learning and skills enhancement.

Supporting Investments at the Municipal Level

Our government is continuing to support municipalities with the Targeted Sector Support Initiative. This grant is open to municipalities partnering to strengthen their core responsibilities through projects focused on regional co-operation, capacity building and good governance.

Now accepting new applications, this program provides cost-sharing grants up to 75 per cent to municipalities.

Applicants must be a municipal government and partner with at least one other community, such as other municipalities, regional committees, First Nations and parks. Since 2020, 56 grants totaling more than $1.9 million have been approved by the Targeted Sector Support Initiative. Applications for this intake will be accepted from November 1, 2021, to February 1, 2022. Interested municipalities can learn more and apply at https://www. saskatchewan.ca or email info@targetedsector.ca for more information.

Agriculture Student Scholarship Program If you know a student in Grade 12 or recent graduates entering agriculture-related post-secondary studies in 2022, tell them about the 2022 Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship Program. Applications consisting of a creative three-minute video or 1,000-word essay discussing this year's theme of transparency in agriculture are now being accepted. The awards consist of one winning scholarship of $4,000 and three runner-up scholarships of $2,000. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2022. For more information on the Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship Program, visit Saskatchewan.ca/ag-scholarship.

Supporting Mental Health

An important issue for all of us is that of supporting mental health in our communities. In Regina, our government is partnering with Phoenix Residential Society to provide 25 new mental health beds to support people transitioning from hospital stays back into their communities. These beds will help those experiencing severe and persistent mental health needs, in turn, reducing the use of emergency rooms, police calls, homeless shelters and mental health beds in hospitals. This is a part of the measures announced in the 2019-20 Provincial Budget commitment to deliver approximately 75 residential mental health beds across the province, with $6 million of annualized funding beginning in 2020-21.

These enhanced residential supports are a key recommendation under Saskatchewan's Mental Health Addictions Action Plan. Further announcements will be made in the near future for another new 50 mental health treatment beds. This year, the province has invested a record $458 million in mental health and addictions supports and services, accounting for 7.5 per cent of the overall Health budget.

New Highway Signage Will Mark Treaty Territory Boundaries

In the future, as you travel on our highways you will see official Treaty boundary signage delineate the two largest Treaty Territories in Saskatchewan, Treaty 4 and Treaty 6. This new initiative will help to bring awareness to the Treaty Territories in Saskatchewan. In support of the application put forward by the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, our government is working to further Treaty education and to work towards reconciliation.

We will work with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner to determine the exact location and composition of signs and ensure that the proper protocols and ceremonies are observed prior to any installation. This will make Saskatchewan the first province in Canada to mark Treaty Boundaries along major provincial highways.

As always, if you have questions, comments, concerns, or require assistance with provincial government programs or services, please get in touch with our constituency office.

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.

Martensville High School Remembers

Page 8 - NOVEMBER 11, 2021 - martensville messenger 2112BS3

Submitted by MHS Teacher Mr. Kaweski

Last week, Martensville High School held a Remembrance Day ceremony for all of the students. During the ceremony, Spencer Gerwing played “The Last Post” and “The Rouse” on the trombone. Principal Marty Johnson and Cadets Elan Gorelitza and Jacob Cromwell placed wreaths on behalf of MHS students and staff.

The MHS Choir, under the direction of Mrs. Mary Lou Beck, and accompanied on piano by Mrs. Teresa Koop-Hunter sang “In Flanders Fields”. Following this, students Megan Epp and Zuhkayda Tarala read poems reflective of the spirit of remembrance.

This ceremony was coordinated under the capable direction of Mr. Sheldon Mojelski.

ABOVE: Cadets Elan Gorelitza and Jacob Cromwell with Spencer Gerwing on trombone.

(Submitted)

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COVID-19 Vaccination and Breakthrough Information for October Released

Based on the COVID-19 Vaccination and Breakthrough Infections report for the month of October, the rate of hospitalization was 85/100,000 cases for those who were unvaccinated versus 15/100,000 for those fully vaccinated. The rate for ICU admissions was 21/100,000 for the unvaccinated versus 2/100,000 for the fully vaccinated. The rate for COVID-19 deaths was 13/100,000 for the unvaccinated versus 3/100,000 for the fully vaccinated.

The COVID-19 vaccine is not a cure. It will not prevent every COVID-19 transmission. It will reduce the risk of transmission and, when transmission occurs, reduce the risk of serious illness and death.

The Ministry of Health has updated the COVID-19 vaccination and breakthrough information for October 1-31. Highlights include:

Of the 10,018 cases reported in October, 7,370 (73.6 per cent) were unvaccinated or tested positive within three weeks of receiving their first vaccination.

Five hundred and eighty cases (5.8 per cent) were partially vaccinated with one dose, while 2,648 cases (26.4 per cent) were fully vaccinated. Of the 2,648 cases with a second dose, 22.8 per cent (604) had comorbid conditions and 22.5 per cent (595) were 65 years and older.

Of the 461 individuals hospitalized with COVID-19, 352 (76.4 per cent) were unvaccinated or tested positive within three weeks of receiving their first vaccination. Thirty-three cases (7.2 per cent) were partially vaccinated with one dose, while 109 cases (23.6 per cent) were fully vaccinated.

Of the 461 individuals hospitalized in October, six were 12-19 years and 17 were 11 years and younger.

Of the 98 individuals admitted to ICU, 85 (86.7 per cent) were unvaccinated or tested positive within three weeks of receiving their first vaccination. Six cases (6.1 per cent) were partially vaccinated with one dose, while 13 cases (13.3 per cent) were fully vaccinated.

Of the 98 individuals admitted to ICU, three were 12-19 years and four were 11 years and younger.

Among the cases reported in October, 78 individuals passed away; 53 were unvaccinated or less than three weeks after their first vaccination.

All vaccination and breakthrough data reports are available in the COVID-19 vaccination information at Saskatchewan.ca.

Note that this vaccination and breakthrough analysis for October is based on cases that were reported in October. This methodology has consistently been utilized for all monthly vaccination and breakthrough reports.