Tourism expenditures in Saskatchewan are experiencing a significant upward trend according to the latest data from Statistics Canada. The province witnessed a notable increase in travel spending, hotel occupancy rates, and revenue compared to the previous year. The growth is attributed to various factors, including outdoor recreational attractions, hunting and fishing opportunities, and the return of festivals and events.
Camp Molly, a program that aims to increase the representation of women in the fire service, has been launched in Saskatchewan. The camp provides hands-on experience for self-identifying females, two-spirit, and non-binary people aged 15 to 18. Participants learn various aspects of firefighting, including ladder work, auto extrication, fire prevention, and investigation. Camp Molly was brought to White City, Saskatchewan, by the White City Fire Department to give participants an opportunity to explore volunteering in a rural community and encourage youth engagement in the fire service.
Residents of Lloydminster, a city on the border of Alberta and Saskatchewan, are being warned about a black bear that has been approaching people and vehicles. The RCMP issued a warning on Thursday, urging residents to take precautions. The bear was last seen near an A & W restaurant in the east end of the city at 10:35 a.m. Alberta Fish and Wildlife has been notified and is advising people to avoid approaching or feeding the bear. They also recommend keeping small children and pets indoors, securing food and garbage, and keeping fences and doors closed and locked. Anyone who sees the bear is asked to contact the Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400.
The STARS Lottery has resumed in Saskatchewan, providing vital support for the province’s critical care services. The funds raised through the lottery play a crucial role in maintaining the STARS helicopter program, which transports critically ill and injured patients to life-saving medical facilities. One beneficiary of STARS’ services was Brynleigh Yewsuk, an 11-year-old girl who suffered a severe head injury at age three. STARS airlifted Brynleigh to Saskatoon for specialized pediatric care, saving her life.
The northern Saskatchewan village of Cumberland House has declared a state of emergency due to deteriorating road conditions on Highway 123, the only road connecting it to the outside world. The highway is riddled with potholes and ruts, making it impassable for vehicles without four-wheel drive. The community is facing food insecurity as road access has been cut off, and fuel supplies are dwindling. The community is calling on the provincial government to address the long-term need for road repairs.
Seeding in Saskatchewan has progressed significantly, with over half of the crop now planted. However, rainfall has caused delays in some areas, and the province remains behind the average seeding pace. Despite the challenges, early seeded crops are emerging, and topsoil moisture levels have improved.
On Monday, May 13, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, a male driver was pulled over in a McDonald’s drive-thru and charged under the Traffic Safety Act. The driver was observed using a cellphone while operating the vehicle on a public roadway. This violation comes with a hefty fine of $580 and four demerit points.
In recognition of the ongoing struggle against sexual violence, Saskatchewan has designated May as its inaugural Sexual Violence Prevention Month. This initiative aims to amplify awareness, mobilize resources, and encourage preventive measures. Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS) and its partners will lead this month-long campaign, building on the momentum of the decade-long Sexual Violence Awareness Week. Saskatchewan’s government has committed $42.6 million over three years to support community-based organizations providing vital services to individuals affected by interpersonal violence and abuse. By empowering communities with education and resources, the province aims to create a transformative change, fostering a safer Saskatchewan for all.
The celestial event was the result of a large solar storm caused by two active regions on the sun, which ejected 16 ‘X-class’ solar X-ray flares over the past month, an occurrence not seen in over 20 years. The aurora borealis was particularly stunning in Saskatchewan, which is renowned for its exceptional stargazing and aurora viewing conditions.
India has restored diplomatic immunity to the trade representative of the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, a month after the official left India due to a diplomatic row between the two countries. The move is seen as a positive step in repairing diplomatic relations between India and Canada.
