Sewer line back ups can cause a major inconvenience in the home, and can be timeconsuming and costly to find and remedy. Here are some things we can do right in our own homes to help prevent back-ups.
• Do not pour grease or cooking oil down the drain. Instead, scrape out or pour cooking oil and grease into a container or plastic bag and dispose of it in your kitchen garbage.
• Do not dispose of large absorbent items like paper towels, diapers, baby wipes or feminine products, down the toilet, these are not items that disintegrate like toilet paper will, including “flushable” wipes. These products should be disposed of in your garbage.
• Kitchen garburators increase the amount of organic material in the service lines. Depending on the condition of the service line, organic material can stick to the lines and over time cause blockages. Compost your organic material instead.
To help prevent a sewer backup, be mindful of what goes down the drain. Your pipes are not built to handle most food items and will almost always cause a blockage in the short or long term. When in doubt, properly dispose of these items by throwing them away.
Switch to E-Bills and Enter to Win
Switching to e-bills is quick and easy, and Martensville residents who make the switch before December 31, 2024 will be entered to win one of 20 $50 gift cards. It only takes a few minutes to go paperless—visit martensville.ca > My Account.
Martensville Municipal Election- Get Ready to Vote!
Every vote matters, and this is your chance to make your voice heard. Election Day is November 13th , from 8AM-8PM at the North Ridge Centennial Community Centre. Advanced Polls are at City Hall Council Chambers on:
-Saturday November 2nd 2024 from 1:00 pm to 5:00pm
-Wednesday November 6th 2024 from 3:00 pm to 8:00pm
-Saturday November 9th 2024 from 1:00 pm to 5:00pm
Council Candidates Take the Stage at Forum
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce hosted an All-Candidates Forum for the Martensville municipal election on Wednesday, October 23rd at the North Ridge Community Centre.
The event included a Q&A for candidates running for Martensville City Council, as well as the two individuals that are seeking the position of Mayor, including incumbent Kent Muench and candidate Travis Sorenson.
There are 14 candidates looking for a seat on Martensville City Council, and all but two candidates attended the forum. Derek Reddekopp and Shawn Sampson were unable to attend the event; however, 12 of the candidates were in attendance, including incumbents Darren MacDonald and Spencer Nikkel and new candidates Mark Knox, Krista McCann, Stephen Ioannou, Logan McCorriston, Katharine Carter, Douglas O’Hara, Brad Blixt, Bren Hannay, Tracy Cox and Matthew Stavenow.
The forum was moderated by PSCC Board of Director Jaycee Turtle, who presented candidates with a variety of questions that were prepared in advance, with some questions submitted by the public.
Candidates were split into two groups of six by alphabetical order to take the stage, and given a minute and a half to introduce themselves before being presented with questions. Questions were alternated between each group, which gave candidates a chance to answer a variety of questions relevant to the community.
Questions included what candidates see as fiscal challenges in the community and the best ways to address them, how candidates are involved in the community and how that has helped prepare them for a role on Council, what kind of improvements are needed in Martensville infrastructure and how that could be funded, what candidates would do to advocate economic development in Martensville and why, what candidate felt were the biggest opportunities and challenges for business growth and expansion in Martensville, and more.
Mayoral candidates were the last to take the stage and were given the opportunity to answer two pre-planned questions, as well as questions that were not provided ahead of time.
For those that were unable to attend the All-Candidates Forum, there will be information about each candidate, as well as their platforms for the election will be provided in the November 7th issue of the Martensville Messenger to help ensure residents of Martensville make an informed decision when they cast their votes for who they want to represent them for the next four years.
The Martensville election will take place on Wednesday, November 13th at the North Ridge Community Centre from 8:00am-8:00pm. Three advanced polls will be held at City Hall on November 2 from 1:00pm-5:00pm, Wednesday, November 6 from 3:00pm-8:00pm and Saturday, November 9 from 1:00pm-5:00pm. Information about each candidate is available online at www.martensville.ca and clicking the three lines in the top right corner, City Hall, Election 2024, and clicking 2024 Candidates on the left of the screen.
Upcoming Council 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.
* Please note due to the upcoming municipal election, the Council Meeting Schedule may be subject to change. Please contact City Hall to confirm meeting dates and times before planning on attending in November.
Upcoming Meetings:
• Regular Council Meeting – November 5 Committee of the Whole Meeting – November 12
• *Note: Martensville Municipal Election is November 13
• Regular Council Meeting – November 19
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 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.
Join Us at the Martensville Sip N Shop
The Martensville Sip N Shop is returning on November 14 from 4-8 pm at the Northridge Community Centre. There is a $2 admission with all proceeds going to SCAT and New Hope Dog Rescue. We have some amazing businesses coming out so you’ll be able to get all the niche gifts for your loved ones while enjoying a beverage!
Visit our Events on Facebook for more information and vendors that are attending.
ABOVE: Incumbent Kent Muench is seeking his fourth term as Mayor of Martensville.
ABOVE: Mayoral candidate Travis Sorenson. .
ABOVE & BELOW: Candidates seeking a position on Martensville City Council took to the stage on October 23rd for the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce All-Candidates Forum.
TOP PHOTO: (L to R) Brad Blixt, Katharine Carter, Tracy Cox, Bren Hannay, Stephen Ioannou and Mark Knox. BOTTOM: (L to R) Darren MacDonald, Krista McCann, Logan McCorriston, Spencer Nikkel, Douglas O’Hara and Matthew Stavenow.
SPORTS Royals Fall Short in NSFL League Final Against Crusaders
Submitted by Coach Tyler Munday
MHS Senior Girls Soccer Provincial Champs Grateful for Coach Berk’s Contributions over Past Decade
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville High School (MHS) Senior Girls Soccer team hosted the 2024 SHSAA 4A Girls Provincials this past weekend winning the first Provincial Gold Medal for soccer in the school’s history.
MHS was ranked second going into the weekend with games beginning Friday, October 24th at noon. Yorkton beat North Battleford 3-2 in a very close match that was down to the final whistle. The 2pm game saw Martensville Royals beat Regina Luther 2-0 thanks to goals from Chloe Bartel and Rachel Hubbard.
The semifinal games were played between North Battleford John Paul II and Yorkton Sacred Heart and Martensville Royals and Regina Luther.
In the bronze medal game on Saturday, Regina beat North Battleford 2-1. In the gold medal game Martensville beat Yorkton 1-0 with a penalty kick in the first half by Chloe Bartel.
Coach Carryn Berk has been a very dedicated coach for this team for the past ten years.
“I feel incredibly privileged to have been part of the 2024 Martensville High School Girls Soccer Team's success. Coaching this team has been a dream come true. The journey from the challenging seasons of 2021 to 2023; when we had minimal senior players; has been transformative. It’s rare to have so many players receive consistent playing time over four years, and this opportunity allowed us to build remarkable chemistry and enhance our skills significantly.”
“We began with many Grade 9 players who were new to the game, and by the time they reached Grade 12, they had blossomed into a team of true superstars! The 2024 roster included 16 Grade 12’s, two Grade 11’s, eight Grade 10’s, and five Grade 9’s. While we’ll be saying goodbye to many talented graduates this year, there’s still a wealth of skill and potential remaining in the program.”
“For the past decade, I’ve had the honor of coaching both the girls’ and boys’ teams alongside Ms. Cooper and Ms. McKinnon. Their dedication and hard work have been instrumental in our success, and I’m deeply grateful for the collaboration we’ve shared. This past season has been especially meaningful as I’ve had the joy of coaching alongside my son, Jaymin Berk. Few parents have the chance to share a passion like this with their child.”
“As I hang up my whistle, I do so on a high note, thanks to the hard work and commitment of the 2024 team. Congratulations on winning Provincial Gold! Your achievements will always hold a special place in my heart,” said Coach Carryn Berk.
As this is the last year Berk will be coaching, some of the captains of the team had some special words to share about their Coach.
“Coach Carryn never failed to show up to every single practice and game with new knowledge and great passion for the sport. She shared to us girls what it’s like to have a great role model. She made every practice competitive but always made sure we had fun. Carryn’s free time was spent creating new drills, writing in her notebook, and sharing to us her motivational speeches. She made us into the girls we are today, and we couldn’t have done it without her. We will forever be grateful for Carryn and the time and knowledge she shared with us.”
Coach Ms. Cooper also shared her appreciation of some of the qualities Berk instilled in her players.
“As the season comes to a close, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for Carryn's incredible dedication and leadership over the past decade at Martensville High School. Watching the growth of our team over the last four years has truly been exceptional, and so much of that is thanks to Carryn's unwavering commitment and passion for the game.”
In a highly anticipated NSFL league final, the Royals football team faced off against the unbeaten P.A. Carlton Crusaders, ultimately falling 40-22. This marked the Royals' first-ever appearance in the league final, and despite their best efforts, they were unable to secure a victory against a formidable opponent.
The game began with the Royals winning the coin toss and deferring their choice to the second half. The Crusaders quickly took advantage, launching an impressive scoring drive that put them ahead early. The Royals' offense, though able to move the ball, struggled to find the end zone, resulting in an early punt. The Crusaders continued to press, scoring again and missing the extra point, bringing the score to 13-0.
As the first half progressed, Carlton's offense demonstrated their dominance, extending their lead to 20-0. However, Royals quarterback Aidan Low connected with Dylan Sawisky on an electrifying 80-yard catch and run, bringing the score to 20-7. Unfortunately for the Royals, the Crusaders responded quickly, adding two more scores to increase their lead to 34-7 before the end of the half.
Despite the challenging first half, the Royals regrouped and made significant adjustments. Their defense came out strong in the second half, limiting the Crusaders to just 6 points. However, trailing by 20 points, the Royals knew they needed to take risks offensively. While this led to another score, it also resulted in three crucial turnovers that kept the Royals from closing the gap further, ending the game at 40-22.
Reflecting on the season, the Royals finished with a commendable 5-2 record, highlighting their growth and potential. Head Coach expressed pride in the team's commitment and resilience throughout the season, noting that while losing is never easy, there are many positives to take into the future.
As the season wraps up, the Royals will hold an awards night in early December to celebrate their achievements. The team extends heartfelt thanks to the communities of Martensville and Warman for their unwavering support both at home and on the road. The Royals look forward to building on this season's successes and wish their graduating players all the best in their future endeavors.
“Carryn shaped a team full of multi-sports athletes who juggle various responsibilities, yet you’ve always encouraged them to strive for excellence both on and off the field. The girls’ goal of playing in the Provincial Final and their triumph as champions in front of family and friends was a perfect testament to the hard work and determination you instilled in them.”
“As we graduate 16 outstanding players this year, I want to acknowledge the leadership and commitment they’ve shown; qualities that Carryn nurtured throughout their time with our team. Her ability to connect with each athlete as an individual has made a lasting impact, fostering not just skilled players, but well-rounded individuals.”
“This season will always be one to remember, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to coach alongside Carryn and learn from her example. Carryn's legacy at MHS will continue through the athletes she inspired. Thank you for everything, Carryn. You will be greatly missed!”
In the last three years this team has won three provincial banners (the first three in our history); Silver in 2022 and 2023, and now Gold in 2024.
BELOW: The 2024 MHS Girls Soccer team made school history this year with the first ever Provincial Gold Medal in soccer. The team consists of sixteen Grade 12’s, two Grade 11’s, eight Grade 10’s, and five Grade 9’s. Congratulations on a successful season! (Submitted)
LEFT: Coaches of the MHS Girls Soccer team; (L to R) Jaymin Berk, Carryn Berk, Breanne Cooper, and Kayla Kurmey. This year marks Carryn Berk’s final year coaching the team, after helping contribute to the team’s success for the past decade. (Submitted)
POLICE BEAT
Two Suspects Arrested Following Shooting North of Prince Albert Fundraiser Created to Support Shooting Victim During Recovery
An alert was issued on Thursday, October 24 following an incident that occurred at approximately 7:30am north of Prince Albert. Prince Albert RCMP responded to a report of a vehicle robbery and shooting that took place near White Star Road, after a lone adult male was approached by multiple suspects in a black SUV. The adult male was shot by the suspects and had his truck and cellphone stolen. According to the report, the victim did not know the suspects.
The victim was located by a passerby at approximately 8:30am and police were contacted. The shooting victim was taken to the hospital with serious injuries; however, police stated in a release that they will not be providing updates on his condition or identifying the male to maintain his privacy.
The suspects were described as three or four males wearing black bandanas or balaclavas and the public was warned that the suspects were believed to be armed with a gun and considered dangerous. A photo of a white 2020 Dodge Ram that was stolen was provided.
Suspects were believed to be travelling near the intersection of Highways #55 and #123 east of Nipawin. At approximately 10:00am, the stolen truck was seen driving on Highway #123 heading north towards Cumberland House.
At approximately10:30am, the white Dodge Ram collided with a heavy equipment vehicle on Highway #123 in the Thunder Rapids area, and responding officers saw the suspects exit the vehicle and enter the surrounding bush. Two firearms were located and seized from the stolen truck.
Two suspects were located by Saskatoon Police Services Air Support Unit running along the bank of the Saskatchewan River, approximately three kilometers from where they were seen entering the bush. The suspects were arrested and as a result of the investigation, they have been identified as 18-year-old Melissa McCallum from La Ronge and 33-year-old Angus Heathen from Prince Albert. Charges include aggravated assault, robbery with a firearm, careless use of a firearm, possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, discharging a firearm with intent, unlawfully causing bodily harm, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, pointing a firearm.
McCallum was treated for injuries from the collision between the Dodge Ram and a heavy equipment vehicle by EMS and released into police custody.
The two outstanding suspects were not located overnight in the area of Highway #123 despite extensive police ground and air searches in dense, thick bush with swampland and mossy/boggy terrain.
Numerous RCMP detachments responded from Nipawin, Melfort, Carrot River, Cumberland House and Waskesiu Detachments, Melfort Traffic Services, Prince Albert Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team, Prince Albert Police Dog Services, and the Critical Incident Response Team. Officers worked in coordination with Saskatchewan Highway Patrol officers and conservation officers from the Provincial Protective Services Branch, and received air support from the Saskatoon Police Service.
In a news release, RCMP asked residents and businesses between Holbein and past Nipawin up to the Thunder Rapids area, especially along Highway #355/55 to check video surveillance for signs of a black Honda CRV with three to four suspects dressed in black with bandanas over their faces between October 23 and the morning of October 24. Tips can be reported by calling 310-RCMP (7267). RCMP is also asking residents within that area to check on their neighbors to ensure everyone’s safety.
A friend of the shooting victim’s family created a fundraising page to help support the victim, Orlan Peterson, and his family following the October 24th incident.
According to the fundraiser, organized by Brad Grolla, Peterson was working alone at a rural construction site north of Prince Albert on the morning of October 24th when two unknown vehicles entered the property.
“One of the persons approached him masked and ordered him around at gunpoint while assaulting him with the firearm. His phone and keys stolen. Instead of just leaving with his truck, he was ordered into a trailer where he was shot and left for dead,” Grollo wrote.
ABOVE: Orlan Peterson was the victim of an incident north of Prince Albert on the morning of October 24th when armed suspects entered the area Peterson was working, shot him, stole his phone and truck and left him for dead.
(Brad Grolla/GoFundMe)
Peterson managed to get to a nearby road for help and was flown by STARS Air Ambulance to a Saskatoon hospital where he remains.
“As a result of the gunshot wound, Orlan’s life will never be the same. It is unknown at this time how physically incapacitated he will be as a result of the lifealtering injury.”
The fundraising page also noted that Peterson will likely require more surgeries, rehab, physio, medical appointments and more and may also never work again due to the injuries sustained in the shooting.
As of Monday, October 28th at 4pm, the fundraiser had reached $77,680, which will go towards assisting Peterson and his family with expenses that will arise during Orlan’s recovery, as well as lost wages.
Saskatchewan RCMP SERT Lays Charges After Human Trafficking Investigation
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU), part of the Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT), and Saskatoon RCMP Detachment has laid multiple charges against an adult male following a human trafficking investigation that began in Dundurn, SK.
On October 23, 2024 at approximately 5:15 a.m., Saskatoon RCMP were called to a business in Dundurn for a report of kidnapping.
Officers responded and located an adult female from Ontario at the business. Initial investigation determined she was being held against her will. Officers contacted HTCEU investigators, who began a human trafficking investigation. HTCEU investigators determined the woman had been forcibly taken from Toronto and that human trafficking had occurred in various locations in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
As a result of investigation, 51-year-old Pierre Andre Bouchard of Chambly, QC, is charged with:
• one count, trafficking in persons, Section 279.01, Criminal Code;
• one count, trafficking in persons – material benefit, Section 279.02(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, forcible confinement, Section 279(2), Criminal Code;
• one count, sexual assault, Section 271, Criminal Code;
• one count, sexual assault with other weapon, Section 272(1) (a), Criminal Code;
• one count, material benefit from sexual services, Section 286.2(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, obtaining sexual services for consideration, Section 286.1(1), Criminal Code;
• two counts, procuring, Section 286.3(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, uttering threats against a person, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code;
• one count, assault with weapon, Section 267(a), Criminal Code;
• one count, fail to comply probation order, Section 733.1(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, identity theft, 402.2(1), Criminal Code; and
• one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.
Bouchard was arrested by Saskatoon Police Service on October 23, 2024. He appeared in Saskatoon Provincial Court on October 24, 2024 and made his second court appearance in Saskatoon on October 28, 2024. Bouchard was remanded into custody for his next court appearance in Saskatoon on November 5, 2024 (Information #90529912).
Saskatchewan RCMP's Saskatoon Detachment, Yorkton Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team, Saskatoon General Investigation Section, Saskatoon Police Services’ VICE Unit and Victim Services, Regina Police Service’s VICE Unit, Toronto Police Service and Brandon Police Service assisted in this continuing investigation, along with additional community partners.
If you have information about this or any other incident of human trafficking, or if you or someone you know may be a victim of it, call 310-RCMP.
How to recognize and report human trafficking
“Human trafficking affects communities of all sizes, not just urban centres. It’s a reality that exists in
big cities and small towns, including those here at home in Saskatchewan,” says Insp. Jeff Smoliak, RCMP's Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) senior investigative officer.
“It’s also a crime that has no borders, which is why the Saskatchewan RCMP works interjurisdictionally to investigate these complex files and works closely with municipal police agencies and partners across the country.”
Saskatchewan RCMP reminds the public that anyone can be a target for human trafficking. Victims may be trafficked by someone they know: a former or current partner, family member, friend, or trustworthy person. Recruiting tactics can be subtle; often victims don’t even know they’re being trafficked.
Traffickers may approach potential victims by:
• pretending to be a potential love interest, friend or support person;
• connecting over social media or in person;
• offering gifts or money;
• introducing drugs or alcohol; or
• threatening potential victims’ loved ones if they don’t comply.
In addition to contacting the RCMP, the public can also contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010. This hotline is confidential, available 24/7 and offers services in more than 200 languages. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www. saskcrimestoppers.com.
RIGHT: On Thursday, October 24th, RCMP released a photo of the vehicle suspects were believed to have stolen. (RCMP)
Warman couple can buy home after LOTTO MAX win!
Joseph Ollenberger and Ryan Kennedy won $293,334.10 on LOTTO MAX on the September 17 draw!
The Warman couple said they noticed there had been a winner in Saskatchewan and had to double check their ticket.
“Ryan scanned it on the Lotto Spot app because I didn’t believe it!” Ollenberger said. “He was in shock when he saw the amount!”
“I told my sister right away,” Kennedy said. “Joseph is being pretty hush-hush about it.”
KEEPING YOU SAFE & ON THE ROAD
The duo said their plan is to pay their mortgage and officially own their home.
“It’s crazy because it’s more than we need to pay it off!” Kennedy said. “It’s a great feeling.”
“It really hasn’t set in yet,” admitted Ollenberger. “Once we pay it all off, it’s a sigh of relief knowing we have that freedom.”
The winners purchased their LOTTO MAX ticket from Railway Gas at 225 Ave. B N in Saskatoon. They won their prize by correctly matching six out of seven numbers selected plus the Bonus number in the September 17 LOTTO MAX draw: 2, 4, 11, 16, 25, 29, and 47, and Bonus 34. They split the prize with a winning ticket that also correctly matched the same numbers in B.C. and one in Ontario.
Resource Centre Has Lots to Offer in Martensville
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville-Warman Early Years Family Resource Centre (MWEYFRC) opened its doors at their new location this month. They are now located at 7 Centennial Drive North, where the old Affinity Credit Union used to be.
This government-funded Resource Centre, which is operated by the YMCA of Saskatoon, offers free programming, services and resources for all families with young children, prenatal to age five. There are a variety of drop-in play times multiple times a week in the morning or afternoon, or both.
This is a busy week at the Centre starting with Halloween cookie decorating on Tuesday, pumpkin painting on Wednesday, and a Halloween costume party on Thursday.
Drop-in Play is perfect for families to play together, do crafts, and to connect, explore, and learn with others.
Program Facilitators and Co-Ordinator’s drop by during play time and in the coming months there will be certain professionals popping in as well.
There will be a grand opening on November 22nd so watch for upcoming posts as well as weekly and monthly schedules that will be posted on their Facebook page.
Two Candidates Seeking Trustee Position for Martensville/Warman Catholic School Board
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools (GSCS) Board of Education consists of ten elected trustees, with seven at-large trustees representing Saskatoon and one trustee representing each of the three subdivisions, which include Subdivision 1 – rural areas around Saskatoon, including Martensville and Warman, Subdivision 2 - Humboldt and Subdivision 3 - Biggar.
There are 23 trustee candidates vying for positions in Saskatoon, and two candidates seeking the trustee position in Subdivision 1. Positions in subdivision 2 and 3 were acclaimed.
A nomination period for these positions took place from September 23 to October 9, with the election scheduled for November 13th.
There are two candidates running for the trustee position in Martensville/ Warman, which include incumbent Wayne Strus and candidate Michael Raney. Stus has been the GSCS Board of Education trustee for Subdivision 1 for numerous years, and according to his biography, served during construction of the schools in Martensville and Warman. Stus, who is married with four adult children and nine grandchildren, is a member of the Knights of Columbus and a parishioner at the Cathedral of the Holy Family and has a background in construction.
Raney is married with four children and served as Director of Music at St. Paul’s Co-Cathedral for over three years. Prior to that, Raney worked in construction project planning and supervision. Raney also serves on the Knights of Columbus Council 1517 as Financial Secretary and on the board of the George Mackie Foundation.
More information about each candidate can be found on the GSCS website at www.gscs.ca.
Advance polls will take place at Martensville City Hall on November 2 from 1pm5pm, November 6 from 3pm-8pm and November 9 from 1pm-5pm. Voting in Martensville for the Subdivision 1 trustee will take place on Wednesday, November 13th from 9am-8pm at the North Ridge Community Centre.
Notice of Poll
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a poll has been granted for the election of:
BOARD MEMBER:
ST. PAUL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC SEPARATE SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 20, SUBDIVISION NO. 1
Voting will take place on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:
Warman: Brian King Centre, 202 8th Avenue North
Martensville: North Ridge Centennial Community Centre, 901 - 3rd Street North
Aberdeen: Aberdeen Town Office, 401C Main Street North
Viscount: Viscount Village Office, 220 Amherst Avenue
Clavet: Clavet Community Hall, #2 Second Avenue
South Corman Park: South Corman Park School, 1760 Baker Road, Casa Rio, SK
Vonda: Vonda Town Office, 204 Main Street
Dated this 11th day of October, 2024
Ron Walter Returning Officer
ABOVE: Michael Raney ABOVE: Wayne Strus
Letter to the Editor From Sask Cancer Agency
To the Editor:
Cancer is a word that strikes fear in most people. Almost all of us have been impacted by it – whether personally, within our family or within our network of friends and colleagues – and all of us should expect timely and effective diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care.
The quality and availability of this care was a topic in provincial news recently, based on a briefing note prepared by the Saskatchewan Government and General Employees’ Union (SGEU) regarding challenges at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA). SGEU represents hundreds of employees at the SCA in Regina and Saskatoon, including technologists, nurses, pharmacists, support staff and more.
The briefing note contained information gathered in a survey of SCA employees in August and was created in preparation for meetings SGEU requested with the Minister of Health and the Opposition Health Critic. These meetings took place in late August and early September, at which time SGEU representatives from the SCA and I laid out a number of urgent concerns that have been impacting staff and patients. Patient volumes and acuity have increased dramatically in the past few years. Cancer screening programs have increased and evening treatment clinics have been implemented. We applaud the government for improving early detection efforts and providing more hours for treatment.
However, staffing levels have not kept up with the demand in workload, and facilities are growing more crowded. This compromises patient care, patient privacy and the ability for staff to provide top-notch care. Both the critic and the minister seemed concerned by what they heard.
In addition to laying out the critical situation at the SCA, we proposed a number of solutions to the minister and the critic. We advised both that we are prepared to work together on solving the problems at the SCA to help ensure patients and their families can receive the high level of care they need and deserve.
The solutions we proposed at the meetings included immediate, mid-term and long-term actions. We expected immediate action or at least confirmation that action is being taken. However, we have yet to hear anything from the minister or his representatives.
Despite that, I can guarantee that SGEU members employed at the Cancer Agency will continue doing everything they can to support cancer patients and their families. That means working through breaks and meal periods, working extra shifts, working overtime – sometimes without compensation, showing care and concern even on the hardest of days. And, as SGEU president, I will continue to put pressure on whoever forms the next government to ensure staff health and safety and patient care are a priority.
Election Day in Saskatchewan is near. Be sure to ask your local candidates if they care about those facing cancer. Find out if they are committed to taking immediate action to address the issues at the Cancer Agency. And, once the election is over, hold your MLA to account. Our lives depend on it.
Tracey Sauer, SGEU President (306-775-7219 or 306-775-7230)
Sask Party Wins Majority Government for Fifth Consective Term
Monday nights provincial election ended with the Saskatchewan Party securing its fifth straight majority government win after coming out on top in 35 out of 61 seats throughout the province.
The NDP gave the Sask Party a tight race compared to the previous election, winning 26 seats compared to the 2020 election where they only had 13 seats. The last time the NDP saw more than 20 seats in government was in 2007.
The newly formed Martensville-Blarimore constituency saw Sask Party’s Jamie Martens elected with a total of 4,424 votes as of Tuesday, October 29th. NDPs Tammy Pike came in with 2,717 votes and Brittney Ricottone of the Green Party had 156 votes. These number may change slightly following the mail-in ballot count.
Letter to the Editor
Terry Jenson, the former MLA for the Martensville-Warman constituency was re-elected in the Warman constituency for Sask Party with 5,709 votes, with NDPs Erica Baerwald coming in second at 2,145 votes.
Sask Party leader Scott Moe won in his constituency of Shellbrook-Rosthern with 5,083 votes with Mark Thunderchild of the NDP placing second with 1,741 votes.
There was a clear divide once again between the rural and urban voting, as NDP was the prominent vote throughout Saskatoon and Regina.
In total, there were 439,771 total votes, with 829,884 eligible voters and 810,816 registered voters. There were 32,476 mail ballots issued and 20,417 pending count.
According to Elections Sask, the Saskatchewan Party received 53% of ballots cast in this election, for a total of 232,760 total votes.
NDP saw 39.5&% of ballots cast with 173,285 total votes.
The Saskatchewan United Party had 4.1% of ballots cast with 17,658 total votes. The Saskatchewan Green Party had 1.8% of ballots cast with 7,726 total votes. The Progressive Conservative Party of Sask had 1% of ballots cast with 4,300 votes. Buffalo Party of Saskatchewan had 0.8% of ballots cast with 3,201 votes.
Saskatchewan Progress Party had 0.2% of ballots cast with 510 votes and Independent had 0.1% of ballots cast with 331 votes.
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.
ABOVE: Saskatchewan Party’s Terry Jenson (Left) was elected in the Warman constituency, Sask Party Leader Scott Moe (Middle) was elected in the Shellbrook-Rosthern constituency and Jamie Martens (Right) was elected for the Martensville-Blairmore constituency.
Kinsmen Club Hosts Fundraiser to Support Local Cadets
The Martensville & District Kinsmen Club is currently hosting a fundraiser to help support the 574 "Dakota" Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron.
The local Kinsmen Club is offering a Fall Meat Sale, which has a variety of options available for people to purchase; including, burgers, hot dogs, Ukrainian sausage, chicken wings, steak, roast, chicken fingers, pork dry ribs, shrimp, bacon wrapped scallops, ribs, bacon, chicken breast, souvlaki skewers and more.
There is also a meat pack available for $150, which includes 10x each pork and chicken souvlaki, 6 x 4oz burgers, 1 whole roasting chicken, 2lbs bacon, 2lbs ground beef, 9 x 5oz chicken apple sausages, and 4 x 8oz strip loins.
The order deadline is November 3rd at 5:00pm. Pick-up and delivery will take place November 7th from 5:00pm-6:00pm at the Martensville Curling Rink.
Visit the ‘Martensville & District Kinsmen’ on Facebook to find the link for the order form, or contact martensvillekinsmen@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Friends Gather to Spread Awareness of Rett Syndrome
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
A group of women meet regularly at the local Tim Hortons and on Wednesday, October 23rd, they all showed up wearing the same outfit, all in support Rett Syndrome Awareness month, which takes place each October.
The ladies wore matching purple shirts in honour of their friend Kathy Lengyel’s granddaughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome when she was a child.
According to the Mayo Clinic website, “Rett syndrome is a rare genetic neurological and developmental disorder that affects the way the brain develops. This disorder causes a progressive loss of motor skills and language. Rett syndrome primarily affects females.”
Initially, babies will develop as expected and then within 6-18 months, they begin to lose skills they previously had such as crawling, walking, communicating or using their hands. It affects 1 in 10,000 females, and even more rarely in males.
ABOVE: T-shirts were provided for free to those interested in helping spread awareness about Rett Syndrome through the Saskatchewan Rett Syndrome Association.
Kathy Lengyel’s granddaughter Brooklyn, who is now 24 years old, has helped her family and friends learn more about Rett Syndrome and in turn, they are taking that knowledge to help spread awareness.
The coffee crew received their free purple Rett Syndrome Awareness shirts through a campaign organized by the Saskatchewan Rett Syndrome Association.
“By wearing this pRETTy awesome t-shirt, you can help spark conversations about #RettSyndrome and encouraging everyone to truly see, hear and celebrate those living with Rett by honouring their unique qualities, aspirations, struggles and triumphs,” the Saskatchewan Rett Syndrome Association stated via social media.
Two mothers of the Manitoba Rett Syndrome Association were the creative minds behind the t-shirt initiative, and Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc. Canada sponsored the campaign.
“It takes a lot of support and we are so grateful to everyone that wears a shirt to help bring awareness. If we can help reach more people each October through wearing these shirts, and there might be someone out there that doesn’t know what is going on with their child, maybe it can help them get the correct diagnosis. A lot of kids with Rett Syndrome get misdiagnosed, so if we can help spread awareness, it might help a family get the supports they need that much sooner,” Kathy Lengyel stated.
ABOVE LEFT: A group of friends that meets regularly all donned their purple Rett Syndrome Awareness t-shirts on Wednesday, October 23rd in support of their friend
Kathy Lengyel’s granddaughter Brooklyn, who was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome as a child. Rett Syndrome is a debilitating neurological/movement disorder that primarily affects females, causing them to have inability to speak, walk or use their hands.
