Letter of support
Parkland College Counsellor, Sophia Thomas and Parkland College Program Coordinator, Gwen Machnee made a presentation to the Kamsack Town Council regarding their efforts to prepare a grant application through the Saskatchewan Health and Research Foundation Solutions Program. After hearing the intention, details, and scope of the proposed project, town council agreed to offer an official letter of support to include with the grant application.
Virtual Kairos Blanket Exercise
Kairos Canada will be hosting a virtual Kairos Blanket Exercise on November 17, on the Zoom platform, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Attendance is free. However, there are limited spots and pre-registration is required by: November 12, 2021. To register, visit: www.parklandvalley.ca/workshops/
Workshop Description: An Online Workshop in Reconciliation. Developed in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers and educators, the KAIROS Blanket Exercise (KBE) is an interactive and experiential teaching tool that explores the historic and contemporary relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the land we now know as Canada.
4 Seasons of Reconciliation
Mayor Nancy Brunt, as well as town councillors and department heads, have announced that they are looking forward to participating in the 4 Seasons of Reconciliation training program.
4 Seasons of Reconciliation is a multi-media teaching unit that promotes a renewed relationship between Indigenous Peoples and Canadians, through transformative learning. Its objective is to provide the basic foundational knowledge about truth and reconciliation.
4 Seasons of Reconciliation is produced by Productions Cazabon, an award-winning media and online publishing company in collaboration with the First Nations University of Canada and the ‘4 Seasons of Reconciliation Indigenous Circle’.
Changes in landscape
Kamsack’s Andrychuk Funeral Home has requested that an area of grass that surrounds the funeral home (and is owned by the town) be removed and replaced with stone. The reason stated was that the sloped lawn was difficult to mow and keep healthy. The request was approved.
Masks and Proof of Vaccines/Negative Test
Concern has been expressed by various residents on what the Town of Kamsack will be mandating regarding masks, proof of vaccine, or proof of a negative COVID-19 test. At this time, town council has decided to follow the lead of the provincial government and NOT mandate masks, proof of vaccine, or a negative proof test in order for resident to enjoy indoor public spaces.
Letter to Premier Scott Moe
In letters drafted to the Saskatchewan Premier, Scott Moe, Health Minister, Paul Merriman, Minister Responsible for Rural and Remote Health, Everett Hindley, and the Sunrise Health Authority, MP Cathay Wagantall, and MLA Terry Dennis, The Town of Kamsack has expressed serious concern regarding the reduction of beds, nursing and health care staff at the Kamsack Hospital.
The current bed count has been reduced from 20 beds to 5 beds. Mayor Nancy Brunt reported that, at one time, the Town of Kamsack had as many as 53 beds. While acknowledging that it is a very stressful time, Mayor Brunt says beds and staff are desperately needed as the hospital is central resource in the community which serves residents from within town, three reserves, two rural municipalities, as well as the population at Madge Lake.
Concerned residents are encouraged to write their own letters to all levels of elected leadership and have their voices heard.
Handibus Service Delay
The Kamsack Handibus is currently in need of maintenance. Although it is still operational and running, when the time comes, the Handibus can be expected to be out of service for an estimated two weeks or less.
RCMP Report
The town has acknowledged receipt of a police report from RCMP Acting District Commander, Srg. Cathy Walter. The report detailed data and analytics regarding local criminal activity and traffic violations.
Invitation from Yorkton
Yorkton Mayor, Mitch Hippsley, and Health Foundation Executive Director, Ross Fisher, have extended an invitation to all municipalities in east central Saskatchewan to attend a meeting in Yorkton regarding local health care. Kamsack mayor and council have been invited to offer input at the meeting, set for February of 2022, which will focus on the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s plans for a NEW Regional Hospital in Yorkton.
New doctor
The Town of Kamsack would like express their gratitude and offer best wishes to Dr. Kumar and family as they move on to new adventures. Dr. Kumar’s replacement has been determined and is expected to begin serving the community in January of 2022.
