All City Facilities Closed for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On September 30th, the City of Martensville will once again close all city facilities as a day of reflection, learning, and remembrance for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
We invite all Martensville residents to reflect on their truth and reconciliation journey, our nation’s history, and the lasting legacy of Residential Schools that many in Saskatchewan continue to experience today. There are numerous events throughout the province, and we encourage you to participate.
A Big Thanks for Keeping Martensville Looking Its Best!
A huge thank you to everyone who pitched in to get Martensville in tip-top shape! Over the past few weeks, we’ve all been a little busier cleaning out old junk, clearing weeds from back lanes, and sorting through items in preparation for the Monster Garage Sale this past weekend.
This has been a true collective effort, and we couldn’t be more grateful to the many residents who took the time to participate in these important annual initiatives. Your contributions help keep our community vibrant and beautiful—thank you for making a difference!
Shape the Future of Martensville
Martensville is heading to the polls on November 13th for our next municipal election. The nomination period for those looking to be elected or re-elected runs from September 24 to October 9.
Are you ready to contribute to the future of our community? Visit martensville.ca and explore the ‘Information for Candidates’ section to learn more.
Make your voice count and join the team that’s already making a positive impact in Martensville.
POLICE BEAT
Six People Arrested and Multiple Charges Laid Following Incidents in Rosthern RCMP Detachment Area
Please note the following events all occurred on September 11, 2024: In the early morning hours, Rosthern RCMP received a report of an assault that occurred and a firearm pointed at a person at a residence on Beardy’s & Okemases’ Cree Nation. A white truck was stolen from the same property by the suspect when they left. Around 4:00 a.m., another report was received involving a white truck and a firearm discharged on Beardy's & Okemasis' Cree Nation. Further reports included a white truck driving into the outside of a residence and also driving after another vehicle. One person reported minor injuries during the white truck theft.
RCMP officers responded and searched for the white truck; it was not located. The identified suspect was determined to have a warrant for arrest related to multiple previous investigations and charges laid.
Around 3:00 p.m., Rosthern RCMP received a report of a grey truck stolen
November 13th Municipal Election – Now Hiring!
Looking to make a difference and earn some extra money this fall? We’re hiring election workers for the municipal election on November 13th, including Head Deputy Returning Officer, Deputy Returning Officer, and Poll Clerks. Visit Martensville.ca/pages/ election_2024 for more details and to apply!
Fall Programs – There’s Still Time to Register!
With the weather cooling down and leaves starting to fall, it’s the perfect time to dive into new indoor activities. Visit martensville.ca > Fall 2024 Program Guide to explore a fantastic selection of programs available this season.
Whether you’re interested in cooking classes, volleyball training, or discovering a new hobby, there’s something exciting happening in Martensville. The fall programs are designed to keep you active, engaged, and connected with the community.
Sign up today and make the most of this vibrant season!
Upcoming Council Meeting Dates
Upcoming Meetings:
• October 1 – Regular Council Meeting
• October 8 – Committee of the Whole Meeting
• October 15 - Regular Council Meeting
Location:
Martensville City Hall Council Chambers
37 Centennial Drive
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you 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.
by suspects with a firearm on Mistawasis First Nation. Multiple RCMP Detachments and RCMP Warrant Enforcement and Suppression and Crime Reduction teams began investigating this report and searching for both the grey and white trucks. Around 4:00 p.m., another report was received of two trucks – the grey stolen truck and another black truck that had been reported stolen overnight and was connected to the wanted suspect - driving erratically on Mistawasis First Nation. All these incidents are believed to be related.
RCMP officers located the trucks driving together in a rural Rosthern Detachment area. Officers activated their vehicle’s emergency equipment, but both trucks fled. RCMP officers followed the black truck into a field. The black truck drove a short distance before it stalled out in the field. An adult male and adult female were arrested and the wanted suspect fled on foot. Three firearms were seized from the black truck. During the arrest of the suspects, the black truck started on fire in the dry field, which spread to two responding RCMP vehicles; all three vehicles were destroyed. Officers requested assistance from the nearest fire department while also ensuring the safety of officers at the scene and the suspects in custody. There was damage to the field as a result of the fire.
The wanted male was located and arrested by RCMP Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services officers a short while later in the same area. The male was treated for minor injuries at the scene.
The grey truck was located by responding RCMP Emergency Response Team officers in the Rosthern Detachment area and a tire deflation device was used. The grey truck got stuck in a drainage ditch and the lone occupant was arrested. A female and male were observed walking on a grid road a short distance away – the female was arrested and the male was arrested by RCMP Emergency Response Team and Police Dog Services officers a short while later in the same area after he fled on foot.
In total, six people were arrested – one person was released without charges.
The wanted person is identified as 26-year-old Sundance Okemaysim of Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation. Sundance and 34-year-old Regis Gamble, 20-year-old Ashton Okemaysim, 29-year-old Shynia Oxebin and 33-year-old Elliott Sutherland, all of Beardy’s & Okemasis First Nation, are all charged with:
• 1 count, robbery with a firearm, section 244(1)(a.1) of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, possession of property over $5,000.00 obtained by crime, section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, fail to stop for a peace officer, section 320.17 of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
Sundance is also charged with:
• 3 counts, uttering threats, section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, break and enter, section 348(1)(b) of the Criminal Code
• 2 counts, pointing a firearm
• 2 counts, assault, sections 348(1)(b) and 266 of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, robbery with firearm, section 344 of the Criminal Code
• 1 count, careless use of a firearm, section 86(2) of the Criminal Code
• 2 counts, pointing a firearm, section 87(1) of the Criminal Code
They all appeared in Rosthern Provincial Court on September 17. Information #90531602, 90531600, 90531601, 90531603, 90531604, 20241342791, 2024-1335906
ABOVE: On September 23rd, seven members (one missing in photo) of the Corman Park Police Service were presented with the VandeVorst Award for significant contributions in the removal of impaired drivers from the roads. The award is presented in remembrance of the VandeVorst family, who were killed by an impaired driver in January of 2016, and to recognize officers who work to remove impaired drivers from the roadways and ensure everyone can make it home safe. (Corman Park Police Service)
Martensville Summer Market Closes Season With Final Market on Sept. 28
ABOVE: The Martensville Summer Market will be holding their last market of the year on Saturday, September 28th from 10am-1pm in the parking lot of the Martensville Corner Store. Be sure to stop by for a variety of locally grown produce, baked goods, and more.
Martensville Fuel Good Day
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
Martensville Co-op Gas Bar participated in ‘Fuel Good Day’ on Tuesday, September 17th.
Each year Saskatoon Co-op celebrates ‘Fuel Good Day’ where participating Co-op gas bars donate a minimum of five cents from every litre of fuel sold to a local charity or non-profit organization in communities where they operate.
This year the recipient chosen for this event was the Martensville Food Pantry (MFP).
This all-day event was another big success with members of the Food Pantry on hand from 9-5 to answer any questions about the Pantry, and to accept any garden produce and non-perishables from anyone wanting to support the Pantry. Every donation of $20 or more was issued a tax receipt as MFP is a registered charity.
One of the requests by members of this organization is they ask to limit helping yourself to the bread and pastry on the shelves and that you take one or two items at most.
“It's extremely discouraging to have people come in and take several items! We've also had individuals come back for more after taking an armful out to their vehicle,” they stated on their FB page.
“If this continues, we will only have items in the hallway for a few hours certain days and it will be monitored by one of their volunteers which would impact alot of people.”
Thank you to everyone that came out to support this organization that gives back so much to our community and surrounding areas!
Jamie Martens Bids Farewell to Martensville City Council
Reflecting on my 12 years of service on city council, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and humility. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve this wonderful community, and I want to take a moment to share some thoughts and feelings as I bid farewell to this chapter of my life.
Twelve years ago, I stepped into this role with a vision and a passion for making our city a better place.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to witness our community grow, face challenges, and achieve remarkable milestones. What stands out most to me are the people I've had the pleasure of working alongside—my fellow council members, our dedicated city staff, and, of course, the incredible residents of this city.
Your voices, your concerns, and your dreams have been my guiding light.
Each project, each initiative, and each discussion was a step toward a brighter future, and I am immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together.
While my time on the council is coming to an end, my love for this city and its people will remain unwavering.
I am excited for the future, knowing that we have a new generation of leaders ready to carry the torch and continue the work we’ve started.
As I step away from this role, I want to extend my deepest thanks to all of you.
Thank you for your trust, your support, and your patience.
Thank you for the opportunities to grow, learn, and contribute.
And thank you for making these 12 years some of the most rewarding and fulfilling of my life.
In closing, while my official duties may be ending, my commitment to our community will not.
Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart Martensville
ABOVE: Jamie Martens and Mayor Kent Muench. (City of Martensville)
ABOVE: The Affinity Credit Union donated a cheque for $3000.00 to the New Horizons Senior Centre on Monday, September 23rd. They will be building a new 10x12’ functional storage shed. Photo submitted.
Donation of $22,500 Helps Get Valley Manor SCC Closer to Goal of Creating Inclusive Playground
Submitted by VMS
The Valley Manor School Community Council is fundraising to build an inclusive and accessible playground for all children in Martensville to enjoy. Martensville Affinity Credit Union has granted the SCC with an amazing $22,500 toward making the project a reality! On behalf of the SCC and Valley Manor, we thank them for this generous donation!
Our school and community population are made up of individuals with varying needs and abilities that are not adequately provided for on our current playground. Our end goal is to modify and add to our K-2 and 3-5 playgrounds so that each member of our school and community can play and enjoy together! We plan to have the first playground additions and modifications completed this calendar year
Playgrounds are a place for fun and learning that support a child's cognitive, emotional, physical, and social development. The play that happens on a playground is transformative for both the brain and the body teaching us how to interact with one another, how our bodies move and figuring out how to master new skills. An inclusive playground design includes a balance of play experiences that are beneficial to children of all abilities, at all stages of development and at all levels of sensory engagement. When playgrounds are built with everyone in mind, it sends the message to the community that everyone is meant to be there, that everyone matters, and everyone is meant to play
Valley Manor’s SCC continues to work towards our fundraising goal. If your family or business is interested in investing towards an inclusive play environment that will benefit all children and families in Martensville, please contact Valley Manor School to learn more about this exciting project.
Form H [Section 66 of the Act]
Notice of Call for Nominations School Division Elections
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of:
Board Member: Prairie Spirit School Division No. 206 All Subdivisions
will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Prairie Spirit School Division Office, and during regular business hours on September 16, 2024, to October 8, 2024, at the Prairie Spirit School Division Office.
Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location(s):
• Prairie Spirit School Division website: www.spiritsd.ca
• Schools in the school division
• City, Town and Village offices in the school division
• Prairie Spirit School Division Office
Nomination forms shall be submitted by the nomination deadline either in person by the candidate or their agent or via fax, mail or email:
• In person by the candidate or their agent: Prairie Spirit School Division, 121 Collins Street, Warman, SK
• Fax: (306) 934 8221
• Mail: Prairie Spirit School Division, Box 809, Warman, SK S0K 4S0
• Email: elections@spiritsd.ca
Dated this 13th day of September, 2024. Ron Walter, Returning Officer
Notice of Call for Nominations
School Division Elections
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the office of:
BOARD MEMBER: ST. PAUL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC SEPARATE SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 20, SUBDIVISION NO. 1
will be received by the undersigned on the 9th day of October 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Board Office, 420 - 22nd Street East, Saskatoon, SK and during regular business hours on September 23rd, 2024 to October 8th, 2024 at the Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Board Office, 420 - 22nd Street East, Saskatoon, SK.
Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location(s):
• Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools Board Office 420 - 22nd Street East, Saskatoon, SK
ABOVE: Valley Manor School participated in the annual Terry Fox Walk on Thursday, September 19th. Despite it being a rainy morning, students, staff and parents made their way from the school to Kinsmen Park and back. (Shanine Sealey/MM)
ABOVE: The Venture Heights School Grade 8 Arts AdVenture went on a field trip to Canadian Tire where artist Rachel Goodman was working on a mural that depicts the four seasons in Saskatchewan. Goodman shared with students how she has used her love of art and perseverance to achieve her dream of being a full time artist. (Venture Heights Elementary School)
RIGHT: Ron Gurski (Front Right) of the Affinity Credit Union North Member Council visited Valley Manor Elementary School on Thursday, September 19th to present a cheque for $22,500 which will go towards the VMS School Community Council’s goal to create an inclusive playground for the childen of Martensville.
(Shanine Sealey/MM)
Maddogs Football Hosts Community Day
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville Maddogs football teams hosted their annual ‘Community Day,’ previously known as their ‘Homecoming’, on Saturday, September 21st.
The day started out with the Maddog Hilltops playing against the Prince Albert River Riders at 11am at the Maddogs football field. The River Riders came out on top with a score of 38-25.
Following that game the Huskies took to the field against the Clavet Cougars with a score of 30-14 in favor of the Cougars.
The Maddogs football field was filled with orange with fans and players, and the weather co-operated with a mini carnival throughout the day, concession, raffle and silent auction, 50/50 draws, entertainment from Hawk’s Nest Studios, and former Maddogs and Royals that came out to cheer on the teams.
For a schedule of upcoming games go to saskatoonminorfootball.com.
season. All ages and skill levels are welcome and the season runs from October - March. To register your team, visit https://martensvillecurlingclub.com/registration.
Royals Suffer Tough Loss to P.A. Carlton Crusaders
Submitted by Coach Tyler Munday
In a hard-fought battle on Friday, the Royals fell to the P.A. Carlton Crusaders with a final score of 240. Despite a strong defensive effort, the Royals struggled offensively, unable to find their rhythm and capitalize on key opportunities.
The game started with both teams trading possessions, but it quickly became clear that the Royals’ offence was out of sync. While there were a few explosive plays that hinted at potential, the team consistently failed to maintain drives and put points on the board. The Crusaders, on the other hand, took advantage of costly penalties that stalled the Royals' momentum and allowed them to score during crucial moments.
Defensively, the Royals showed resilience, managing to force turnovers from the Crusaders. However, with their defense on the field for the majority of the game, fatigue began to set in. Despite their best efforts to hold the line, the constant pressure took its toll, and the Crusaders capitalized on the Royals' mistakes.
“The score doesn’t truly reflect the effort we put in,” said coach Munday. “Our defence played valiantly, but we need to find a way to sustain drives and put points on the board. We can’t rely solely on our defense, and that’s something we’ll be addressing in practice this week.”
As the Royals prepare to face the Evan Hardy Souls this Friday, September 27th, at 4:00 PM on Martensville Field, they are determined to bounce back from this setback. The team is focusing on improving offensive cohesion and minimizing penalties to reclaim their momentum.
“We’re looking to learn from this loss and come out stronger,” coach Munday added. “We know what we’re capable of, and it’s time to show it.”
Fans are encouraged to come out and support the Royals as they aim for redemption in their upcoming matchup against the Souls.
ABOVE: The Martensville U16AA Marauders practiced their shooting during a Wednesday night practice session. (Submitted)
ABOVE: The Martensville U16AA Marauders played some mini stick games during the Martensville Minor Hockey BBQ fundraiser on September 9th. (Submitted)
ABOVE: The Martensville High School Royals football team hosted the Prince Albert Carlton Crusaders on Friday, September 20th where they succumbed to a 24-0 loss . (Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM)
ABOVE: There is under two weeks left to register for the Martensville Curling Club’s 2024/25
ABOVE & BELOW: The Maddogs football field was filled with the color orange as they hosted their annual ‘Community Days’ on Saturday, September 21st. Spectators were able to enjoy a mini carnival, concession, raffle and Maddog clothing sale, and Marty the Maddog came out to hang out with the crowd. Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM
Saskatchewan Inflation Rate Remains Lowest In Nation
Carbon Tax Removal Keeps Consumer Price Index Consistently Low Among Provinces
The most recent Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers indicate that in August 2024, Saskatchewan's CPI saw an increase of just 1.1 per cent over August 2023. This is the lowest year-over-year inflation increase among the provinces and well below the national average of 2 per cent.
"Saskatchewan has the lowest inflation rate in Canada as a direct result of our government's refusal to collect and remit the carbon tax," Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "We will continue to provide necessary relief for Saskatchewan families, while fighting back against the Trudeau/NDP coalition government as they threaten to have the Canada Revenue Agency unconstitutionally garnish money from our province's taxpayers. Our government will always stand up for Saskatchewan people."
The CPI measures changes in the price of goods and services over time. Inflation is indicated by the growth of CPI, which helps assess changes to the cost of living. An individual's ability to buy goods and services is affected by changes in income and prices.
Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2023 real GDP reached an all-time high of $77.9 billion, increasing by $1.2 billion, or 1.6 per cent. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth, and above the national average of 1.2 per cent.
Private capital investment is projected to reach $14.2 billion in 2024, an increase of 14.4 per cent over 2023. This is the highest anticipated percentage increase in Canada.
The province recently released "Securing the Next Decade of Growth: Saskatchewan's Investment Attraction Strategy," in conjunction with the launch of the investSK.ca website. These initiatives are positioned to amplify growth in Saskatchewan, serving as pivotal instruments in driving further development.
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.
Province Partners with Rick Hansen Foundation for Accessibility Training
The Government of Saskatchewan is partnering with the Rick Hansen Foundation to deliver education and training on accessibility to public sector bodies and government employees, investing up to $160,000 as announced in the 2024-25 provincial budget.
"Our government is dedicated to fostering strong, inclusive communities and securing a brighter future by removing barriers that limit the full participation of individuals with disabilities," Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said. "Through our partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation, we will raise awareness in the public sector and work to identify and address accessibility challenges."
The Accessible Saskatchewan Act and regulations, which came into effect on December 3, 2023, designate certain organizations as public sector bodies. Public sector bodies are organizations funded by the Government of Saskatchewan that provide or oversee services for citizens. Under the Act, government is also moving forward with its accessibility plan, which will be publicly posted by December 3, 2024.
The Rick Hansen Foundation is committed to improving accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities by raising awareness, dismantling barriers, and promoting universal access. Through accessibility ratings, educational initiatives, and advocacy, the Foundation strives to create a society where people of all ages and abilities can fully participate.
"We are pleased to partner with the Government of Saskatchewan's Ministry of Social Services and grateful for their continued leadership and commitment to improving accessibility in the province through accessibility training," Rick Hansen Foundation CEO Doramy Ehling said. "With almost 30 per cent of people in Saskatchewan identifying as having a disability and our aging population, the need to ensure our communities are barrier-free is more important than ever. Education is key to changing design culture and this funding will go a long way toward empowering change."
For more information about The Accessible Saskatchewan Act and related regulations, visit the Accessible Saskatchewan website.
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Members of the 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron Out of Martensville Get Once in a Lifetime Opportunities
Cadet William Sawyer of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (RCACS) is presented the Cadet of the Week Award for the Drill and Ceremonial Instructor course by Captain Paul McKee at Cold Lake Cadet Training Centre (CTC) in Cold Lake, Alberta on August 22, 2024.
Sawyer was one of seven cadets from 574 RCACS who were selected to attend a CTC. These cadets developed selfconfidence, self-discipline, and leadership skills through activities designed to challenge them. The cadets participated in the following courses: Drill and Ceremonial Instructor, Aviation Technology and Aerospace, Air Rifle Marksmanship Instructor, and Survival Instructor.
Sergeant Issac Howe of 574 RCACS attended the Survival Instructor course at Cold Lake CTC and said, “I found it to be more challenging than what I expected. I learned how to build a shelter, a fire and independently take care of myself over night during the solo part of the course. I am really looking forward to teaching the cadets what I have learned at our next Field Training Exercise.”
“The staff and cadets of 574 RCACS take pride in serving the MartensvilleWarman communities and offering youth the opportunities to learn about aviation and citizenship,” said Captain Darwin Hodges, Commanding Officer of 574 RCACS. Activities promote environments where cadets can “make new friends in a dynamic setting.”
The Cadet Program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 and provides youth opportunities to develop skills that will last a lifetime including teamwork and communication. Youth who are interested in joining the Cadet Program can do so by visiting Join the Cadet Program - Canada.ca or emailing 574cadets.gc.ca.
Becoming part of the Cadet Program as an adult leader is a choice to serve both your country and your local community. It is easier than you may think and is filled with rewarding opportunities to gain new skills valued not only within the Canadian Armed Forces, but within your existing workplace. No previous military or cadet experience is required.
Cadet Paul Lessard of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron located in Martensville, Saskatchewan met the Honourable Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Yukon Territory in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory on August 23, 2024.
Lessard attended a four-week Drill and Ceremonial Instructor course at Whitehorse Cadet Training Centre this summer. The course provided them the opportunity to develop as a drill specialist and included instructional techniques and leadership training.
“This summer I learned more drill and made a lot of new friends,” said Lessard. Lessard is a third-year cadet who joined the Cadet Program to meet new people, to make new friends, and to have new experiences. Since joining, Lessard has participated in an effective speaking competition and local summer training.
“I think other people should join the Cadet Program, not only for the summer training, but for the many other opportunities that are available to them like clubs and the drill team. If you do what you love you can get promoted and work your way through the rank,” says Lessard.
The Cadet Program is open to all youth between the ages of 12-18 and provides opportunities to develop skills that will last a lifetime including teamwork and communication. Youth who are interested in joining the Cadet Program can do so by visiting Join the Cadet Program - Canada.ca or emailing 574air@cadets.gc.ca.
Becoming part of the Cadet Program as an adult leader is a choice to serve both your country and your local community. It is easier than you may think and is filled with rewarding opportunities to gain new skills valued not only within the Canadian Armed Forces, but within your existing workplace. No previous military or cadet experience is required.
Written by: Captain Lisa Long, Unit Public Affairs Representative, Regional Cadet Support Unit Northwest
ABOVE: Cadet William Sawyer of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron (RCACS) is presented the Cadet of the Week Award for the Drill and Ceremonial Instructor course
Written by: Flight Sergeant Hailey Nagtalon, Cadet Correspondent, Whitehorse Cadet Training Centre
ABOVE: Cadet Paul Lessard (Right) of 574 Dakota, Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron located in Martensville, Saskatchewan meets the Honourable Ranj Pillai, Premier of the Yukon Territory in Whitehorse, Yukon Territory on August 23, 2024.
