September 10, 2020

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September 10, 2020

Locally Owned and Operated Celebrating Thirteen Years of Community

VOLUME NO. 14 - ISSUE 34

www.martensvillemessenger.ca Business as USUAL

ONLINE ORDERS ACCEPTED Re-roofs New Construction Residential Commercial

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

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Back to School Pink & Tidy Cleaning Services (306) 930-0738 15% OFF First booking

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Tuesday, September 8th was the beginning of the 2020/2021 school year.

At Martensville High School, Grades 9 & 10 attended school Tuesday & Thursday, while Grades 11 & 12 attended Wednesday and Friday.

Upon arrival for their first day, students received training on hygiene, sanitization, their schedules and movement around the school. See more about students returning to school on page 4.

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Page 2 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 - martensville messenger

Council Discusses COVID-19 Related Budget Changes and Reduced Rent For Child Care Organizations

This month’s Committee of the Whole meeting for the City of Martensville took place on Tuesday, September 8th and began with a budget variance report provided by Director of Corporate Services Leah Bloomquist. Bloomquist noted that the majority of items included on the report were related to COVID-19 restrictions, whether it was over or under budget.

Bloomquist also brought an update on the development incentive program that the City put into effect in 2019.

Parcels of land that are undeveloped, but serviced, along with show homes are eligible for abatement through this program.

North Ridge Developments has put through the first application for this program for some lots that remain undeveloped within Lake Vista. The request will be brought back to the next meeting for formal approval.

City Clerk Carla Budnick presented a Council Remuneration Policy. “Past practice has been for Council to adjust remuneration near the end of the current election term. The changes do not go into effect until after the next election with the intent that the new Council then not have influence on the policy,” Mayor Muench explained. Administration reviewed other municipalities and proposed that remuneration be based on a percentage of the current Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan – Salaries & Allowances of Members, with the Mayor receiving 50% of a current MLA’s wage and Members of Council receiving 40% of the Mayor’s current wage and providing a Deputy Mayor per diem of $150 per month.

Director of Recreation & Community Services Ted Schaeffer spoke to Council regarding rental rates for child care organizations within the community; such as Busy Fingers Pre-School and Puddle Jumpers Pre-School. Upon reopening, there are restrictions in place for these groups and therefore Schaeffer recommended that Council approve a request for a 25% reduction in rental rates for September to December 2020. From there, rental rates will be reviewed with provincial guidelines taken into consideration. This will be brought back for formal approval.

MLA Report With Nancy Heppner Investments in Infrastructure

Just recently, we celebrated 115 years since Saskatchewan officially became a province. We can be proud of our province, its place in our country, and all that we have to offer the world. While Saskatchewan has experienced many highs and lows throughout its history, we have always been able to count on the strength and resilience of our people to carry us through.

Today, Saskatchewan is a growing province and an emerging world leader in many respects. As we continue to recover from the impact of COVID-19, our government is investing in needed infrastructure to help stimulate economic recovery and encourage local job creation.

Municipal Projects: As an example, the Municipal Economic Enhancement Program is providing $150 million in provincial funding to shovel-ready infrastructure projects in municipalities across Saskatchewan. This is a key component of our government’s $7.5 billion, two-year capital stimulus plan. Major projects in our area include a major sewage lagoon expansion in Warman and a variety of recreational projects in Martensville.

Highways & Transportation: To build strong communities, we must ensure that our families have access to effective and high-performing infrastructure. These key investments show our government’s commitment to building strong families. This month our government released $437.4 million in new highway projects in the 2020 Fall Tender, which is the largest in Saskatchewan’s history.

These new highway projects will stimulate our economy, improve road safety as well as the reliability of several highways across our province. This release of the Fall Tender will allow for the industry to plan their projects effectively for the next construction season. Passing lane projects include Highway 7 from Saskatoon to the Alberta border, Highway 12 north of Martensville and Highway 5 east of Saskatoon.

In total, our government has invested $9.8 billion into our transportation infrastructure since 2008. This year, our government will improve 1,000 kilometres of highway, which is the first year of our 10-year Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 kilometres of highway.

Education Infrastructure: The past few weeks have seen the announcement of new school builds, as well as the completion of others. The new PreK-12 Rosthern Community School is officially open and welcoming students this week. More than $135 million of our stimulus spending will go towards four more new schools, two major renovations, as well as many maintenance projects for school divisions in communities across the province.

Since 2007, our government has committed more than $1.9 billion toward school infrastructure projects. This includes 85 major school capital projects and numerous small projects such as portable classrooms and preventative maintenance and renewal.

This fall, many schools across Saskatchewan are opening their doors for the first time to an excited group of students. I am grateful for the work and guidance of school divisions to ensure our students and faculty members are able to adapt to our current reality.

Though the school year will be different for most, we can be confident knowing that our students are in good hands. I wish all students and school staff the very best as we return to class in what has been a particularly challenging year.

martensville messenger - SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 - Page 3

September - October Council Meeting Dates

Please Note: The upcoming Council Schedule or location may be subject to change based around any potential new developments or ease of restrictions around the COVID-19 Pandemic. Anyone interested in attending is strongly encouraged to contact the City Clerk prior to planning to attend.

Regular Council Meeting- September 15th Regular Council Meeting- October 6th Committee of the Whole- October 13th Regular Council Meeting- October 20th

Still Plenty to Do! – Fall Registration Open / Monster Garage Sale/ Culture Days Events

Fall Registration is now open! There are a variety of programs to register for but limited space in each, so register as soon as you can! Visit the City or Martensville Program Registration page, or phone us at 306-683-5576 for more information!

The Regular Council Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers.

Martensville City Hall - 37 Centennial Dr. S. All meetings commence at 5PM.

We missed the spring garage sales this year, but don’t miss out on the fall Monster Garage Sale! Register your house online, over the phone, or in person at the MAP or City Hall!

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.

The City of Martensville is once again celebrating culture days this year! We have three different events taking place, Art for all Ages, Seniors Try-it Event and Handcrafts for all ages! These events take place at the end of September, they are free to anyone but registration is required!

Civic Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic- What you Should Know!

City Hall has reopened to the public, however with some guidelines currently in place.

Continue to utilize online and contactless options when possible. 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 September 4th Martensville Athletic Pavilion - Open, with occupancy limits City Hall - Open Aquatic Centre- Closed for the Season Northridge Centre - Open for Bookings with Provincial gathering guidelines Heritage Centre - Open for bookings with Provincial gathering guidelines Sports Centre - Open 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 during this time.

Residents and Customers are requested to carry out transactions electronically such as online banking, preauthorized payments or TIPPS. Cheques may also be dropped off in the drop slot at City Hall.

After Hour Water and Sewer Emergencies - should still be directed through the Emergency line at City Hall, (306) 931-2166, ext.1.

Protective Services - There are no changes in duty or status to Protective Services such as the RCMP, Martensville Fire Department, and Ambulance Service.

Water and Sewer - These services remain unimpacted and unchanged, including water quality testing. Meter reading will continue to take place under the Read/Estimate schedule; however, staff will not be doing reads of meters located inside of homes or occupied buildings. In these cases, estimates will be taken or reads can be provided into City Hall. In respect to water and sewer emergencies, city staff may not be able to enter resident homes at this time and private contractors should be considered.

Water Meter Read/Estimate Schedule - Normally the Read/Estimate Schedule that takes place from October-April would be completed and the entire City would have water meter reads completed by City of Martensville Meter Readers. However due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Water Meter Read/Estimate schedule continues to be extended into foreseeable future Garbage and Recycling - Services remain in place and on schedule with no anticipated service delays at this time. Organics collection has also commenced.

Road Maintenance - will continue as required and is not expected to change at this time.

Playgrounds and Sports Fields - Playgrounds are currently open. The Spray Park is open.

Sports Fields have reopened but users should continue to follow activity guidelines as may be provided under the Provincial Re-Open plan.

Trails and passive park spaces remain open for use, but we continue to urge residents to incorporate safe practices.

Utility and Property Tax Updates - The City has implemented a number of measures to assist property owners and businesses during the pandemic, currently in place: • • • •

Interest charges on utility bills will be suspended until November 1, 2020.

Water service will not be discontinued due to non-payment or overdue account status.

The deadline for property tax payments will be extended from July 31 to October 30, 2020.

All interest charges on property tax owing will be suspended until November 1, 2020.

Stay Informed! - The City of Martensville has created a dedicated webpage to provide information, updates and additional resources around the COVID-19 pandemic. This page is accessible through the homepage at Martensville.ca.

Please continue to follow us, media sources and information from the Province of Saskatchewan for the most current information around updates or new measures for the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.

Fall Back Lane and General Clean-up Schedule

This service aims at limiting the amount of trash and debris that is dumped in back lanes, at the City yard waste depot, and business/contractor dumpsters. This program is intended for residential household yard cleanup waste, and not intended for commercial and industrial business waste. It is the responsibility of residents to ensure that their waste is disposed of properly.

Residents that live South of Main Street will have their items picked up the week of September 28th-October 2nd. All items will need to be out by September 28th - 8:00 AM. Residents that live North of Main Street will have their items picked up the week of October 5th-9th. All items will need to be out by October 5th - 8:00 AM. Items should not be placed out prior to one week for scheduled pick-up. There also will only make ‘one-pass’ so please have your items out in time.

Visit Martensville.ca for a list of Accepted and Non-Accepted Items.

How Can You Help Prevent a Sewer Line Backup?

• 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.

Page 4 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 - martensville messenger

The City of Martensville still has room in a variety of classes starting up soon.

Register on-line, by phone, or at the MAP at (306) 683-5577 or www.martensville.ca Program

Age

Day & Time

2

Wed. 5:00pm - 5:30pm

3

Wed. 5:45pm - 6:15pm

4

Wed. 6:30pm - 7:00pm

3

Thurs.

5:00pm - 5:45pm

4

Thurs.

6:00pm - 6:45pm

Sportball for Toddlers

2-3.5

Thurs.

5:15pm - 6:00pm

Sportball for Pre-School

3.5-5

Thurs.

6:15pm - 7:15pm

6-8

Sun. 2:00pm - 2:50pm

9-13+

Sun. 3:10pm - 4:00pm

Youth (6+) & Adults

Sun. 4:20pm - 5:10pm

5-7

Mon. 6:00pm - 6:45pm

8-10

Mon. 7:00pm - 7:45pm

Elementary Volleyball

9-12

I Wanna Walk

Mini Moves

Rhythmic Gym.

Art Classes Beginner Art Classes Sculpting

Ball Hockey

Rhythmic Gym. Sportball for Big Kids

Sept. 23- Dec. 2 (No class Nov. 11)

Sept. 24 - Dec. 3 (No classes Oct. 8) Jan. 7 - Mar. 25 (No class Feb. 18, Mar. 4) Oct. 1 - Dec. 3

# of Classes

Cost

Location

Instructor

10

$65

Valley Manor

Kayla

20

$175

Valley Manor

Bailey

Lake Vista

Nolan & Julianne

10

$140 $150

Oct. 18 - Dec 6

8

$85

Heritage Centre

Tracy

Oct. 18 - Dec 6

8

$85

Heritage Centre

Tracy

Sept. 21 - Dec. 14 (No classes Oct. 12, 26 Nov. 9)

10

$80

Valley Manor

Randy

Tues.

6:00pm-7:00pm

Oct. 6-Dec. 1

8

$100

Venture Heights

5+

Sat. 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Sept. 19

1

$20

MAP

Susan

5-6

Mon. 5:30pm - 6:00pm

Sept. 14 - Dec. 10 (no classes Oct. 12, Nov. 9)

Mon. & Thurs.

6:15pm - 7:15pm

Jan. 4 - Apr. 22 (no classes Feb. 15, 17, Mar 8, Apr. 5, 8)

Venture Heights

Bryce

7-13 Beg. & Intermediate 10-16

Tues.

6:00pm - 7:00pm

Sept. 22 – Dec. 8 (no drop-ins Oct. 27, Nov. 10)

5-7

Thurs.

7:00pm-8:00pm

8+

Thurs.

8:15pm-9:15pm

Sept. 24 - Dec. 3 (No classes Oct. 8) Jan. 7 - Mar. 25 (No class Feb. 18, Mar. 4)

5-7

Thurs.

7:30pm-8:30pm

Oct. 1 - Dec. 3

Tues.

10:00am – 10:45am

Sept. 15

Thurs.

7:15pm - 8:00pm

Sept. 17

Karate

Pickleball Jr.

Starts & Ends

$225 25 $490

10

$3/drop in

Lake Vista Large Gym

Bob

20

$225

Valley Manor

Bailey

10

$150

Lake Vista

Nolan & Julianne

MAP

Val K.

Drop in Fee to the MAP

Equipment Orientation

16+

First Aid & CPR

14+

Sat & Sun 8:00am - 5:00pm

Oct. 24 & 25

2

$130

MAP

Bruce

First Aid & CPR Recertification

14+

Sun. 8:00am - 5:00pm

Oct. 17

1

$80

MAP

Bruce

Floor Hockey

16+

Tues.

7:30pm - 9:00pm

Oct. 6 - Dec. 8

10

$3/ drop in

Venture Heights

No Instructor

Pickleball

16+

Tues.

7:00pm – 9:00pm

Oct. 6 - Dec. 8

10

$3/ drop in

High School

No Instructor

Volleyball Non Spiking

14+

Oct. 15 - Mar. 18

20

$425

MAP

No games Dec. 24, Dec 31 March 11

Mon. 6:00pm - 10:00pm

Oct. 19 - Mar. 15

20

$575

MAP

Mon. 6:15pm - 7:15pm

Sept. 14 - Dec. 7 (no class Oct. 12)

Mon. 7:30pm - 8:30pm

Sept. 14 - Dec. 7 (no class Oct. 12)

Mon. 7:15pm - 8:15pm

Sept. 14 - Dec. 7 (no class Oct. 12)

Wed. 6:00pm - 7:00pm

Sept. 16 - Dec. 9 (no class Nov. 11)

Volleyball Rec. Spiking

Ball & Mat Class

16+

16+

Thurs.

6:00pm - 10:00pm

ABOVE: Students at Valley Manor Elementary School walk single file into the school after their lunch break on their first day back.

1

ABOVE: Lauryn Moyer and Emma Low don their masks before heading back into Martensville High School on their first day back.

No Games Dec. 28, Feb. 15 Charlotte

12

$100

MAP

12

$100

Heritage Centre

Val K. Cindy

Flow Yoga

16+

Learn to Jog

16+

Tues.

7:00pm - 8:00pm

Sept. 15 - Dec 1

12

$100

MAP

Charlotte

Yin Yoga

16+

Wed. 7:15pm - 8:15pm

Sept. 16 - Dec. 9 (no class Nov. 11)

12

$100

Heritage Centre

Jodie

Zumba

16+

Thurs.

7:15pm - 8:15pm

Sept. 17 - Dec. 3

12

$100

MAP

Anita

FREE of charge with your admission into the MAP

Jodie

ABOVE: Students at Venture Heights Elementary School stand in their designated spaces as they prepare to enter the school.

ble, ble, e,able, , s., s.re, ds. lso lso also o

Online Organ And Tissue Donor Registry Officially Launched

www.givelifesask.ca Now Available to all Saskatchewan Residents 16 Years or Older

The Government of Saskatchewan has officially launched an organ and tissue donor registry at www. givelifesask.ca.

The registry allows Saskatchewan residents to make a formal declaration of their decision to become an organ and tissue donor. The registry has been a key part of government’s plan to modernize the province’s organ and tissue donation system and improve donation rates while reducing transplant waitlists.

“This is an important day for our government in fulfilling a key commitment to improve organ and tissue donation rates in Saskatchewan,” Health Minister Jim Reiter said. “I encourage all Saskatchewan residents to join me in registering their intent to donate and potentially one day save lives.

Organ donations save lives. One tissue donor can help 75 people, and one organ donor can save eight lives.

Registering as a donor is the only secure and guaranteed way to make your decision known and any Saskatchewan resident sixteen years or older is eligible to register.

“With this organ and tissue donor registry, we have another way to support grieving families by confirming the intentions of their loved ones,” Saskatchewan Health Authority Medical Director for Donation Dr. Joann Kawchuk said. “Every person who registers increases the chance of a longer, better life for people waiting for a transplant.”

Blaine Pho is a strong advocate for an organ donation registry as another way of increasing Saskatchewan’s donor rates.

“My wife Michelle was an amazing wife and mother and when we needed her she was always there, that is what we miss the most,” Blaine said. “Michelle was diagnosed with lupus, and after 10 years of fighting this disease it left her with irreversible kidney damage. There just aren’t that many donors and it’s very difficult knowing the person you love needs a kidney and there is nothing you can do.

“It is such a gift to be able to give life. If this decision is right for you and you decide to be an organ donor, be sure to let those close to you know so your family will support your final wishes.”

To learn more about the registry, or to register to become an organ and tissue donor, visit www.givelifesask.ca.

martensville messenger - SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 - Page 5

Local Karate Instructor Faces Long Recovery Following Motorcycle Accident

On August 24th, City of Martensville Parks & Facilities Manager & local karate instructor, Donald Crowe was involved in a motorcycle accident on his way home from work.

Crowe was operating a motorcycle when it collided with a pickup truck and he was sent to the hospital by ambulance with serious, but non-life threatening injuries.

The driver of the truck was not injured in the collision.

According to Saskatoon Police Service, the accident occurred at 71st Street and Idylwyld Drive North at approximately 4:40pm. Traffic restrictions were in place as police investigated the scene.

A Go Fund Me page was created

by Barrett and Dawn Kenke, friends of ABOVE: Donald Crowe, his wife Jessica and their two children. (GoFundMe) the family, who stated on the page that, “Returning home from the hospital will involve a long road of rehabilitation and recovery.”

They explain that “Donald is a loving, tentative husband and father of two handsome, busy boys, aged 2 and 5 months. He is a great friend to many and a selfless individual.”

Funds raised through the page will be used to help renovate, equip and help to make things a little easier for a safe and comfortable return home for Don and his family. “All the concern, love, and support streaming in from friends, family and acquaintances is very much appreciated,” the page also states.

As of Tuesday, September 8th, the current total raised is approximately $13,500, surpassing the goal set of $10,000.

Only 9 Units Left Open House Sunday 1:30-3pm 131 135Beaudry BeaudryCrescent Crescent Martensville Martensville

Martensville Custom Finishing

Exclusively Sold Through

Rob Friesen 306-221-9350 www.realestatesk.ca rbfriesen1@gmail.com

Heated Grade Level Parkade Elevator - 9' Ceilings Concrete Floors for Superior Sound and Fire Proofing 2 & 3 Bedroom Units Available

Business & Professional

Directory Dental

CALL 306-668-1093

or email advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca

Government

ABOVE: Blaine Pho

Building

601 Centennial Dr. S. 601 Centennial Dr. Martensville, SK S. Martensville, Phone: 306-934-6610 601 Centennial Dr.SK S. Phone: 306-934-6610 Fax: 306-934-6602 Martensville, SK 601 Centennial Dr. S. 306-934-6602 601 Centennial Dr. S. E-Mail: Phone: 306-934-6610 Martensville, SKFax:mbhs@sasktel.net Custom Window Packages available, Martensville, SK E-Mail: mbhs@sasktel.net Phone: 306-934-6610 Fax: 306-934-6602 Labour Included!

Phone: 306-934-6610 Custom Window Packages available, Fax: 306-934-6602 Fax: 306-934-6602 Labour E-Mail: mbhs@sasktel.net Come see us forIncluded! your hardware, Custom Window Packages available.E-Mail: mbhs@sasktel.net Store Hours:

601 Centennial Dr. S. Martensville, SK 601 Centennial Dr. S. Phone: 306-934-6610 Martensville, SK Fax: 306-934-6602 601Phone: Centennial Dr. S. 306-934-6610 E-Mail: mbhs@sasktel.net Martensville, SK Fax: 306-934-6602 Phone: E-Mail: 306-934-6610 mbhs@sasktel.net Store Hours: Fax: 306-934-6602 Mondaymbhs@sasktel.net - Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm E-Mail:

ENSVILLE RT ENSVILLE T MA R BLDG AEN Monday am - 6:00 pm Store 8:00 Hours: M E V T ISaturday S L--LFriday VN BLDG T R I& LS R L A E A E 9:00 am - 5:00 pm pmFree Local Delivery!

Monday Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 Store Hours: MM BLDG BLDG & MondaySaturday Closed Sundays 9:00 am pmpm Free Local Delivery!

- Friday 8:00 am- 5:00 - 6:00 E-Mail: mbhs@sasktel.net Custom Window available, building, andPackages paint supply needs.

Included!

Custom Window Packages available, ComeLabour see usIncluded! for your hardware, Labour Labour Included! Garage, building, and&paint needs.

Deck Fencesupply packages also

Store Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm see us hardware, Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Come seefor us your for your hardware, building Come see us forCome your hardware, available Deck &supply Fence packages Closed Sundays and paint needs. also building, and paint supply Garage, needs.

Store Saturday 9:00Hours: am - 5:00 pm Monday -Closed Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Sundays Saturday am - 5:00 pm Store 9:00 Hours: Closed Monday - Friday 8:00Sundays am - 6:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Sundays

HOME & &SUPPLY HOME SUPPLYFree Local Delivery!

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HOME SUPPLY Closed Sundays Phone 306-934-6610 HOME SUPPLY FREE Local Local Delivery Hardware Free Delivery!

FREE Local Delivery FREE Local Delivery Hardware Phone 934-6610 Hardware Free Local Delivery!

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Phone Phone 934-6610934-6610 Store Hours: building, and paint supply needs.

Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm available Garage, Deck & Fence packages also Garage, Fence packages Garage, Deck &&Fence packages also also Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00Deck pm Closed available Sundays (2006) LTD. Saturday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm available available Closed Sundays (2006) LTD.

(2006) LTD.

(2006) LTD.

FREE Local Local Delivery Hardware Free Delivery!

Phone 934-6610

601 CENTENNIAL DRIVE SOUTH

COMPLETE LINE OF HARDWARE

BUILDING PRODUCTS & PAINT 601 CENTENNIAL DRIVE SOUTH COMPLETE LINE OF HARDWARE COMPLETE LINE OF HARDWARE FREE ESTIMATES PRODUCTS & PAINT DRIVEBUILDING SOUTH BUILDING PRODUCTS & PAINT 601 CENTENNIAL DRIVE SOUTH FREE ESTIMATES

Ph:CENTENNIAL (306) 934-6610 601 DRIVE SOUTH 601 CENTENNIAL DRIVE SOUTH Fax: (306) 934-6602 601 CENTENNIAL Ph: (306) 934-6610 Ph: (306) (306) 934-6610 Fax: 934-6602

Fax: (306) 934-6602 601 CENTENNIAL DRIVE SOUTH 601 CENTENNIAL Ph: (306) 934-6610 Fax: (306) 934-6602

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Nancy Heppner MLA Martensville-Warman

mail@nancyheppner.com www.nancyheppner.com 306-975-0284

Page 6 - SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 - martensville messenger

Provincial Politics with

Murray Mandryk

Big Sask. Party Lead Bodes Poorly for Scrutiny

A 32-percentage point lead less than two months before an election should mean that the Saskatchewan Party has little to worry about. As for the rest of us, that might be another matter. This is in not necessarily a condemnation of the government’ performance and it is in way meant to suggest voters are ever wrongheaded in their choice.

Voters in a democracy are always right and the Saskatchewan voters don’t exactly dish out four-term mandates easily. Should Premier Scott Moe and the Sask.

Party win on Oct. 26, it will be only the fourth time we have seen a four-term government in this province’s 115-year history.

But we need to keep in mind that the collective voter choice is always about who is best to run government - not necessarily the perfect choice for government and Saskatchewan’s political history has been defined by longserving administration who benefitted from no viable alternative at the time; evidently, the situation we are now seeing with a weak NDP alternative.

After this province joined confederation in 1905, it was all about the Liberal government that was not threatened by one single viable alternative for the first 25 to 30 years.

That was followed by the rise of the Tommy Douglas and the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) that benefit from Conservatives and Liberals splitting the centre-right vote.

The CCF’s NDP successors led by Allan Blakeney then Roy Romanow and Lorne Calvert then enjoyed this benefit right up until the rise of the Sask. Party in 2007.

That leads us to today where the Sask. Party under Brad Wall and now Moe have secured large majority governments and record general election popular votes because the NDP have largely been in political shambles and seemingly incapable of offering policies voters here can trust.

It’s a problem with our first-past-the-post system; that means that when you can only muster about a third of the electorate’s support; the current situation for now Ryan Meili-led NDP; it translates into only getting a quarter to a fifth of the seats in the legislature.

That leaves the government with a big mandate to do pretty much anything it wants, which brings us to Finance Minister Donna Harpauer’s recent admission her government is unlikely to provide a balanced budget until 2024-25 when the next four-year term of office comes to an end.

Credit Harpauer for at least being forthright about this. Politicians aren’t exactly known to be completely honest with the voters about such matters. One might even agree this is the right approach, given the collapse of job growth and resource revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It does seem to make sense to more slowly dig our way out of this mess rather than impose tax hikes like in 2017. “We fully recognize that we’re going to, yes, have austerity budgets, but that doesn’t mean cutting,” Harpauer said when she presented the first-quarter update of the 202021 budget. “That just means minding spending. So can we have any large grandiose announcement, probably, for the next couple of years.”

While this all sounds good, it glosses over the fact that the Sask. Party government was running record public debt before the pandemic hit. It can also be argued the Sask.

Party has been rather stingy of late in its operational spending.

So why can it so easily get away with adding more debt? Well, it’s because voters don’t have an alternative championing balanced budgets and debt reduction.

Essentially, Moe, Harpauer and company can get away with not balancing the books because the NDP; the only real alternative; is suggesting it would spend even more and run up even more debt.

It shows that success in politics is largely based on whom you are running against.

The SGI Study Guide for Safe #SchoolZones

School zones could be especially busy this year, as it’s expected more parents will opt for transporting their kids to school, rather than relying on busing.

Some school divisions around the province are asking parents not to drop off their children directly in front of the school, with active transportation (walking, cycling, skateboarding, etc.) being encouraged.

“Keeping our kids safe is top of mind for everyone right now,” said Penny McCune, Chief Operating Officer of the Auto Fund.

“We expect more traffic – both vehicular and pedestrian -- near school zones so we’re giving drivers a refresher on what to do to help them navigate those bustling school zones safely.”

Slow down to the posted speed limit - The most common school zone offence is speeding. Most school zones have reduced speed limits (you can tell by the big reflective signs) and the penalties for exceeding them are tougher than regular tickets. For example, going 20 km/h over the limit in a school zone will result in a $310 ticket and three demerit points. The faster you’re going, the more the ticket will cost.

More importantly, though, slowing down keeps kids in school zones safe, because it gives drivers more time to react if something unexpected happens. The faster a car is going, the less time a driver has to stop and avoid a collision.

If a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist does occur, the chances of serious injury or death increases significantly if the vehicle is travelling at higher speeds.

Watch out for jaywalkers - School zones are full of kids, and kids don’t always pay attention to crossing when and where they are supposed to. This year, they are going to be extra excited to see their friends and teachers in a school setting for the first time since March.

Be careful around school buses that are unloading and loading - Passing motorists are the single biggest threat to children as they enter or leave a school bus. Avoid bus loading zones whenever possible. If you must drive in those areas, obey all signs and signals and watch for kids crossing the street to get to or from their bus.

Slow down as you approach a bus. If a bus is slowing, or is stopped with its amber lights flashing, motorists should reduce their speed and ensure it is safe before proceeding.

If a bus is stopped with its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, motorists following or approaching the bus must come to a complete stop and wait until the red lights stop flashing and the stop arm is pulled in before proceeding.

Drivers not obeying school bus safety lights can be issued a $360 ticket, and four demerits.

Obey crossing guards and pedestrian lights - Obeying the crossing guard is not optional. All school crossing guards are legally permitted to stop traffic (with their stop sign) and assist school children crossing the street. Vehicles must come to a complete stop and remain stopped until the children, and the crossing guard, are safely off the road (watch out for stragglers). Failure to do so results in a $230 ticket.

Avoid distractions - During drop-off and pick-up times school zones can become extremely congested and it may be difficult to identify hazards. Put down the coffee or cell phone, place your hands on the wheel and keep your eyes on the road. Need any more motivation to take this lesson to heart? Tickets for distracted driving cost $580 for a first offence, plus four demerit points.

Don’t park in “No Stopping” zones - No, not even for “just a minute.” Keeping these areas free of vehicles is the best way to maintain visibility for other motorists.

Drop your kids off on the same side of the street as the school - This will reduce the chances of being struck by a passing vehicle.

No U-turns - Many communities have by-laws prohibiting U-turns in school zones. In any event, it’s best to avoid it. Drive around the block if you need to come back to where you just were.

ABOVE: TR Petroleum is temporarily closed as they are tearing down the old building and replacing it with a new building and equipment. It will be bigger than before and they will be offering premium fuel as well. They are hoping to be open again in October but no official date is set at this time. Watch for updates in the Martensville Messenger and on our FB page. (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)

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.

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Chamber Hosting Annual Awards Gala Virtually Due to COVID-19 Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

This March, the Prairie Sky Chamber of Commerce was preparing to announce the finalists for this year’s Warman, Martensville & Region Business Excellence Awards (WMBEXA), when they were forced to pause planning the event due to an economic shutdown because of COVID-19. “At that time, we felt that we played a better role by being there to assist businesses through the COVID challenges. Businesses weren’t in the mindset to celebrate and instead were in survival mode,” Jaimie Malmgren, PSCC Executive Director explained.

Now, six months later with businesses re-opened, the PSCC decided that it was time to focus on some positive news and announced the finalists on Thursday, September 3rd virtually. “I think now, it is even more of a time to celebrate being a business owner. We have seen businesses adapt to stay alive and there have been some really inspiring stories that we have seen from our local businesses, so we felt that they were ready for us to move forward with this,” Malmgren added.

Due to restrictions that are currently in place regarding mass gatherings, the winners of the awards will be announced during a virtual WMBEXA gala, taking place on October 29th at 7pm. The event was originally scheduled for May 2, 2020.

The thought of cancelling the event all-together was definitely on the table; however, Malmgren noted that the WMBEXA organizing committee felt that they needed to recognize the businesses that put so much time and effort into their applications. “We are not alone in this. There are Chambers across North America going through the same challenges and have found ways to move forward. We hope that next year, we can return to the in-person gala, but this is the next best thing.”

The PSCC partnered with Aspen Films for WMBEXA, who will be handling the videography and logistics for the event. “It won’t be your typical Zoom call, but rather a production. We are encouraging businesses to have home parties and gather their staff and family to come together to celebrate this event,” Malmgren said.

Those interested in participating can purchase at home party packs, which will include an assortment of appetizers, desserts, wine and more. You can also purchase individual tickets in order to receive the access code to view the event.

Although some changes were necessary, Malmgren stated that they are still going to keep things as similar as possible with video vignettes of all the finalists and have the presenting sponsors announcing the winners. “It is going to be different, but we are really excited about this. We are hoping that people still embrace it as they did before, because we have always had such a strong turnout.”

Congratulations to the 2020 WMBEXA Finalists Non-Profit of the Year – sponsored by The Wireless Age Martensville Lions Prairie Spirit Schools Foundation Route 11 Creative Arts Centre Warman Childcare Centre Warman Collective Garden Community Involvement – sponsored by SaskTel Legends Pharmacy PAWS Republic Pharmasave Soul Power Fitness Upstage Dance Studio Customer Service - sponsored by Kessler Insurance Aqua Temp Plumbing & Heating Solutions Pharmasave The Medicine Shoppe Warman Small Animal Hospital Zak’s Home Hardware - Warman New Business - sponsored by Warman Small Animal Hospital Awasis Boutique Tammy’s Training Canine Services Upstage Dance Studio Employer of the Year - sponsored by WorkSafe Saskatchewan Aqua Temp Plumbing & Heating Solutions Canalta Hotel Lakeview Insurance Laskowski & Wright LLP Martensville Plumbing & Heating Micro Enterprise of the Year - sponsored by bdc Evermore Homes Hawk’s Nest Studio McDowell Martial Arts Nourish Natural Health Food Store Team Iron Elles Personal Training Business of the Year - sponsored by Martensville Plumbing & Heating Laskowski & Wright LLP Lakeview Insurance Shercom Industries Warman Physiotherapy & Wellness Warman Small Animal Hospital

While we have all seen changes in our lives since COVID-19, events such as this one prove what can be done when people come together. Malmgren noted that none of their sponsors backed out for WMEBXA and that without them, this event would not be possible. “Even though things were up in the air, all of our sponsors have been accommodating to what we have had to do to pivot this year’s awards gala. We are so incredibly grateful.”

If you are interested in purchasing a party basket, or a ticket to watch the virtual WMBEXA gala, visit www.prairieskychamber.ca for more information.

ABOVE: The Martensville & District Lions Club received a $500 donation from the Saskatoon CO-OP gas bar location in Martensville, which will be used towards their Dog Guide Sponsorship Program. Geoff Passy, President of the local Lions Club was on hand to accept the generous donation. (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)