Explore Moose Jaw Fall Edition 2023

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Residents & Visitors EVENTS Guide DINING

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SHOPPING ACCOMMODATION MAPS SERVICE REAL ESTATE AUTOMOTIVE EVERYTHING MOOSE JAW & DISTRICT

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MOOSE JAW SASKATCHEWAN

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GIFTS GALORE FROM CEILING TO FLOOR! When walking through historical Downtown Moose Jaw take a stop at Past Times, You won’t regret it! We have a wide range of stock from home décor, vintage candy, Moose Jaw’s official supplier of chocolate Moose Candy, refurbished home decor and one of a kind gifts! We have Moose Jaw souvenirs, mugs for all occasions. The store shelves are filled with products and treasures for Customers to stumble across like a scavenger hunt with always changing products!

OUR FRIENDLY SERVICE MATCHES THE WONDERFUL ATMOSPHERE.

Antique Style Photography

Easy as 1,2,3, costumes in all sizes. Themes in 20’s, Western or Victorian.

These make not only great gifts but great memories!

Shop

from one of our Professionally Decorated Christmas Trees and Décor!

26 MAIN STREET N. MOOSE JAW 306.692.9955 2 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

fALL edition

Residents & Visitors EVENTS Guide DINING

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SHOPPING ACCOMMODATION MAPS SERVICE REAL ESTATE AUTOMOTIVE EVERYTHING MOOSE JAW & DISTRICT

RY TA EN OU BY LIM HT TOEYJAWES P G M U S S

MOOSE JAW SASKATCHEWAN

MOOSE JAW & DISTRICT

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468 High St W Moose Jaw, SK. S6H 1T3 306-694-1322 Fax: 888-241-5291 jritchie@moosejawtoday.com

Special Thanks to all who contributed their time, effort and knowledge to this project:

Editorial: Joan Ritchie, Gordon Edgar, Jason Antonio, Randy Palmer, April Meersman Sales: Wanda Hallborg, Gladys Baigent-Therens, Kevin Ogle, David Klatt, Rob Ritchie Design: Sandra Stewart The contents of this publication are the property of Moose Jaw Express. Reproduction of any of the contents of this publication including, but without limiting the generality of the following: photographs, artwork and graphic designs, is strictly prohibited. There shall be no reproduction without the Express written consent of the publisher. (rob@mjvexpress.com) All ads are published in good faith without verification, and the Moose Jaw Express does not under any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of any ads or messages in any of the publications editions. The Moose Jaw Express specifically disclaims all and any liability to advertisers and readers of any kind for loss or damages of any nature what so ever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission of any other cause.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE EMAIL: SALES@MJVEXPRESS.COM

Joan Ritchie

Editor’s Note

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.” – Aristotle As sure as the sun shines and the stars come out at night, winter on the prairies is inevitable this time of year. There are many reasons to love winter.

We turn our focus internally to spend more time indoors, although who doesn’t enjoy some outdoor activities during the upcoming glistening and frosty days of winter.

This publication focuses on the activities of the season that are happening around town and within the province that may be of interest to you.

As usual, Moose Jaw lacks nothing in providing opportunities for all ages to enjoy at this time of the year.

There are art exhibitions to view, musical entertainment to enjoy, art and craft shows, programming for all ages at the Moose Jaw Public Library and Western Development Museum, and much more.

Take in the spectacular Winter Wonderland Valley of Lights down in Wakamow Valley this Christmas season or become a regular Moose Jaw Warrior fan.

Expand your horizons within the province of Saskatchewan and take a few days to visit one of the many amazing parks that are open during the winter. Get motivated to do some snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, or if you’d rather, just lounge by a blazing fireplace with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate, and your special someone.

The air outside may be frosty, but the warmth inside is sure to keep the chill off.

“We cannot stop the winter or the summer from coming. We cannot stop the spring or the fall or make them other than they are. They are gifts from the universe that we cannot refuse. But we can choose what we will contribute to life when each arrives.” ~ Gary Zukhav Joan Ritchie

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Editor’s Note What’s Inside?

Visitors Information Eat in Moose Jaw Bevies Moose Jaw

CHURCHES 8.

Church Listings 10.

The Salvation Army in Moose Jaw 11.

Service Clubs

What’s inside?

EXPLORING MOOSE JAW OVER THE SEASON 12.

Wakamow Valley has many things to see and do during the winter 14.

From country to flamenco, Cultural Centre will be musically jumpin’ in the coming months 15.

Standing as a symbol of strength and cultural significance, life size buffalo sculpture completed at Moose Jaw Tourism site 16.

Moose Jaw’s Cultural Centre books multi-platinum Saskatchewan rock band ‘The Sheepdogs” to play January 24, 2024 17.

Christmas shopping starts early at the annual Whistlestop Craft Sale 18.

Dogs, horses and crafts: Exhibition grounds a busy place in coming months 19.

Moose Jaw Community Players provide welcoming, fun outlet for performing arts enthusiasts 20.

Don’t miss the WDM’s upcoming fall and winter programming 22.

The Western Development Museum will hold blacksmithing courses this fall and winter 23.

Hope, help and compassion for the needy in the community of Moose Jaw 24.

Festival of Trees hospital fundraiser brings Christmas Magic for more than 30 years 26.

Moose Jaw Warriors: NHL stars of tomorrow playing here today for 40 years 28.

Get artsy through the winter months with MJ Museum & Art Gallery 29.

Where to find the best tobogganing hills in Moose Jaw

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PEOPLE’S CHOICE

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Moostletoe Tour growing in 11th annual tour in 2023 Red Seal Horticulturalist Leslie Cornell offers winter garden tips Heartland Hospice welcomes new board members, reveals timeline through 2024 Kinsmen Santa Clause Parade always a big hit in the lead-up to Christmas Moose Jaw Events Centre remains one of the jewels of southern Saskatchewan Kinsmen Sportsplex a happening place during winter months Stay active this fall and winter at the Yara Centre’s indoor facility The Moose Jaw Public Library has a wide selection of programs this winter Rotary Carol Festival organizers need more choirs to create successful event Christmas festivities begin in Moose Jaw with Christmas in October Stonger Together: Square One’s campaign tree now at Circle Medical Centre Carousel Riders offers therapeutic, co-operative environment to learn horse riding

EXPLORE SOME MORE 52.

Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa 53.

Saskatchewan Winter- a pick-and-go playground for everyone 58.

Assiniboia - a vibrant community 59.

Winter fun in Gravelbourg 61.

A little somethin’-somethin’ special to sip on during a cold winter’s eve

MISCELLANEOUS 63.

Stay safe with winter driving tips from the Combined Traffic Services Unit

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Visitors

CLIMATE DATA

Information BANKS BMO Bank of Montreal

39 Manitoba St. E (306) 694-8130

CIBC

CONEXUS High Street Branch 80 High St. W (306) 691-4800 RBC Royal Bank 1251 Main St. N (306) 691-4100 Scotiabank

303 Main St. N (306) 693-3691

TD Canada Trust Branch 145 Main St. N (306) 691-4610

EMERGENCIES 911

RCMP

310-RCMP-7267

Police

(306) 694-7600

Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital

(306) 694-0200

Moose Jaw Express Publications

(306) 694-1322

Moose Jaw’s Community Newspaper

Locally Owned & Operated 32 Manitoba St. W • www.mjvexpress.com (306) 694-1322

Online Daily

32 Manitoba St. W www.moosejawtoday.com

COMMUNITY/BUSINESS City of Moose Jaw

(306) 694-4400

Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce

(306) 692-6414

CLUBS Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Moose Jaw Lions Club

Average Low oC/oF

Precipitation mm/inches

Mean monthly sunshine hours

Jan

-6.9/19.6

−17.7/0.1

16.8/ 0.66

106.1

Feb

−4.0/24.8

−14.2/6.4

11.1/0.44

141.4

Mar

2.7/36.9

−7.9/17.8

19.7/0.78

164.4

Apr

12.1/53.8

−1.7/28.9

17.6/0.69

229.5

May

19.0/66.2

5.1/41.2

48.0/1.89

262.6

Jun

23.9/75.0

10.4/50.7

58.8/2.31

289.1

Jul

26.2/79.2

12.3/54.1

63.0/2.48

331.8

Aug

26.1/79.0

11.6/52.9

39.1/1.54

301.2

Sep

19.2/66.6

5.6/42.1

37.7/1.48

194.0

Oct

12.0/53.6

−0.8/30.6

19.6/0.77

168.8

Nov

0.7/33.3

−9.4/15.1

17.3/0.68

102.0

Dec

−6.3/20.7

−16.6/2.1

16.5/0.65

86.2

Year

10.4/50.7

−1.9/28.6

365.3/14.38

2,377

AIRLINES Air Canada

1-888-247-2262

West Jet Airlines

1-888-937-8538

Regina has the closest International airport

NEWS/PUBLICATIONS

Moose Jaw Today

Average High oC/oF

Month

204 Main St. N (306) 691-4444

Ambulance/Fire/Police

Moose Jaw’s climate is transitional between semiarid and humid continental Moose Jaw’s winters are long, cold and dry, while its summers are short, but very warm and relatively wet. The coldest month is January, with a mean temperature of −12 °C (10 °F), while the warmest is July, with a mean temperature of 19.3 °C (66.7 °F). The driest month is February, in which an average of 11 millimetres (0.43 in) of precipitation falls, while the wettest month is July, which brings an average of 63 millimetres (2.5 in).

Annual average precipitation is 365 millimetres (14.4 in).

www.clubrunner.ca (306) 693-9529

AIRPORTS Provincial Airways Municipal Airport

(306) 692-7335

Regina Airport Authority

(306) 761-7555

CAR RENTALS Avis Car & Truck Rental

(306) 694-1355

Budget Car & Truck Rental

(306) 692-4111

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

(306) 694-0910

TAXIS Amils/Diamond Taxi

(306) 693-3999

Capones

(306) 972-5050

Universal Cab

(306) 690-6820

Yes Taxi

(306) 690-9481

6 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

EAT IN MOOSE JAW

23 High St E 306-692-6066 /dejavucafemj

Open Daily 7am - 8:30pm

BOOK US FOR ALL YOUR CATERING NEEDS! Hwy #1 - 820 North Service Rd 306-692-9300

www.dejavucafe.ca

BEVIES MOOSE JAW

BEER • WINE • SPIRITS

450 Lillooet St W For Delivery Call 306-692-7457 7 DAYS A WEEK 10AM-10PM

Located in our Food Store, One Stop Shopping for You! 500 1st Ave NW, Moose Jaw Open 7 days a week 8am-8pm

510 Home St W 306-694-5112

In Store Shopping as well as our new Online order site @moosejawliquour.com. Free delivery with all online orders 7 days a week 11am-10pm 7 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Visit one of our Churches this Sunday!

UNITED YOUR Name

Blood

Worship Services Sunday Mornings 10:30am Sunday School is held from September to June

We proudly accept persons from all walks of life We have halls to rent!

60 Athabasca Street East Phone: 306-692-0533

­

­ ­ DON’T WAIT Stripes

For Tomorrow may be too late...

DON’T HESITATE

Word

st.andrews.mj@sasktel.net www.standrewsmoosejaw.ca

UNITED

Zion United Church 423 Main St. N. 306-692-3842

www.mjzionuc.ca

Minister: Rev. Tim Ellis Music Director: Bruce Learmonth Sunday Service/Sunday School 10:30 a.m.

Online at: ! zionunitedchurch

PENTECOSTAL CHRISTIAN

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Visit one of our Churches this Sunday!

ROMAN CATHOLIC

CHRISTIAN

Church of Our Lady 566 Vaughan St 306-692-2950 Masses: Saturdays 7pm Sundays 10am

Salvation Army Moose Jaw Community Church Worship Services: Sundays 11am 2 Wintergreen Drive or Facebook live stream @thesalvationarmyinmoosejaw Sundays 6pm 175 1st Ave NE 306-694-0045

Pastors - Majors Clarence and Karen Ingram

APOSTOLIC

9 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

THE SALVATION ARMY IN MOOSE JAW The Salvation Army has been at work in Moose Jaw for more than 135 years and is known for its work through the church, community and family services in the city. The Salvation Army exists to share hope wherever there is hardship, building communities, and know the love of Jesus. Important program priorities include disaster and relief services, Community Care Ministry in personal care homes, financial trustee services for vulnerable adults, and emergency family services. These programs, operated in Moose Jaw and Assiniboia, are directed

by Major Clarence and Karen Ingram, who are the pastors appointed by The Salvation Army. They are supported by roughly 25 employees and countless volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that the Army is committed to “Giving Hope Today”!

The Army has been best known for the operation of its Thrift Stores in Moose Jaw and Assiniboia. This is associated with the Donation and Sorting Centre, where donations of good used items are received from generous citizens of the city and surrounding areas. Profits from the sale of these goods go toward developing and maintaining programs within the Moose Jaw and Assiniboia region. These funds provide food, clothing and practical assistance to individuals who may require assistance. In addition, hundreds of children are sponsored to attend vacation camps at Beaver Creek Camp each year near Saskatoon.

Within the church, there are opportunities for Christian worship weekly through Sunday worship services, weekly Bible study programs, children and youth ministries and community service opportunities.

Contact us: Community and Family Services; Emergency and Disaster Services: 175 – 1st Ave. NE, Moose Jaw, S6H 0Y9 Telephone 306-692-5899 Director of Community and Family Services / Corps Officer Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

(Closed statutory holidays) The Salvation Army Thrift Store 175 – 1st Ave. NE, Moose Jaw, S6H 0Y9 Telephone 306-692-8858 Hours: Monday thru Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

(Closed statutory holidays) The Salvation Army Community Church Sunday services: 11 a.m.

2 Wintergreen Drive, Moose Jaw, S6J 1M9 Telephone 306-694-0045 Corps Officer / Community and Family Services Officer www.salvationarmymoosejaw.ca or www.facebook.com/TheSalvationArmyInMooseJaw The Donation & Sorting Centre 670 High Street West, Moose Jaw, S6H 1T6 Telephone 306-693-0814 Donations of good used items accepted Monday thru Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Assiniboia Thrift Store / Food Bank 204 Centre Street, S0H 0B0 Telephone 306-642-3833 Hours: Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Closed statutory holidays)

10 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

serviceClubs

Many people in Moose Jaw belong to various service clubs and offer up their time to make Moose Jaw a great place to live. Consider joining one of the many clubs and get involved in your community.

Army, Navy, & Air Force Veterans

(306) 692-4412

Beta Sigma Phi

(306) 692-5947

Citizens All

(306) 693-6066

Elks Lodge No. 7

(306) 692-7474

Fraternal Order of Eagles

(306) 693-1496

Moose Jaw Kinette Club

moosejawkinetteclub@gmail.com

Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club

mjkinsmen@outlook.com

Knights of Columbus

(306) 692-8911

Lions International (Early Bird)

(306) 694-5951

Moose Jaw Masonic Temple

(306) 692-3924

Moose Jaw Shrine Club

(306) 693-5788

The Friendly City Optimist Club

(306) 694-4121

Rotary Club of Moose Jaw

portal.clubrunner.ca/1005

Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow

portal.clubrunner.ca/997

Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59

(306) 692-5453

Moose Jaw Trap And Skeet Club

(306) 631-1152

Automotive Maintenance, Diagnostics, & Repair

888 Main Street

(306)691-0080 PandaAutoService.ca

Family owned and operated for over 30 years in the Heart of Downtown.

11 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Wakamow Valley has many things to see and do during the winter Wakamow Valley covers 200 hectares (500 acres) of land south of Moose Jaw within a few minutes drive and has enough space and activities to keep people occupied throughout the winter.

Visitors will rarely go very long wandering around the many trails without coming across someone doing the same. Or cross-country skiing. Or skating laps on the Wakamow Oval. Or feeding the birds in Kinsmen Wellesley Park. Or even playing disc golf.

One of the best things about the park is there are many spots for people to explore. Visitors can go from Ninth Avenue Southwest down to Plaxton Lake in the southeast and criss-cross many paths along the way or simply make a snowman in a field.

The park’s third annual Winter Wonderland Valley of Lights kicks off on Friday, Dec. 1 and runs until Sunday, Dec. 31. This popular event features more than 200,000 lights wrapped around trees in colourful and creative displays, which is a nice touch during Christmas.

The event takes place every evening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a $10 entrance fee. The public can take a magical drive through the campground to enjoy the one kilometre of brightly decorated trees.

Moose Jaw’s community choir usually spends an evening singing traditional Christmas carols, much to the delight of visitors. Check the park’s website for when the choir sings.

Another fun event is Winterfest, which occurs in February. There are many activities in which to participate, ranging from toasting marshmallows, snowshoeing, wagon rides, skating on the oval, tossing Christmas trees and throwing axes.

Check the park’s website for when the event occurs.

Disc golf is a year-round sport that has exploded in popularity due to its low cost, gentle learning curve, and ease of course construction.

Wakamow’s course started small and is now a fullsized, 18-hole course that sees use from discing enthusiasts year-round, no matter the weather. The course is completely accessible even with snow, although there might be some trudging if you go too far off course.

A group called the Moose Jaw Huckers is a hardy bunch who play during the winter, regardless of temperature, while the Moose Jaw Disc Golf Association recently began operations and helps coordinate leagues. They would likely enjoy having more people join their ranks.

Email mjdgleague@gmail.com to contact the as-

sociation or visit https://udisc.com/courses/wakamow-disc-golf-UsbV for more information about Wakamow Valley’s disc golf course. To reserve a set of disc golf discs — or other winter gear like snowshoes — call the office at 306-692-2717.

A sure sign that people are using the park regularly is how often the Wakamow office loans out snowshoes. The demand is usually steady and regular, meaning plenty of people go off the beaten path and do their own thing.

Those more interested in an unencumbered walking experience can tour the kilometres of trails, which the park’s maintenance staff regularly clear.

Then, there’s the wildly popular speed-skating oval. The city regularly maintains the 400-metre track, and if it’s a really nice day, be ready to rub shoulders with plenty of fellow skaters.

Cross-country skiing is also growing in popularity, especially with a new club aiming to improve and expand the trail system already in place.

There are plenty of people who participate in the leisurely activity, while Wakamow Valley Authority is excited to work with the city and the group to groom new trails and provide another option for some fresh air.

If wildlife is your thing, well, take your pick. Birdwatchers can have critters literally eating out of their hand in the bird-feeding area in Wellesley Park, and with so many deer in the area, odds are visitors come across a four-legged herd at some point. That is on top of the multitude of smaller animals that make Wakamow Valley their home.

For more information on what Wakamow Valley offers, visit www.wakamow.ca.

Wakamow Valley Winter Wonderland Valley of Lights

12 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Wakamow Winterfest Activities – checkers/hay rides/sliding/roasting marshmallows/skating/snowshoeing/disc golf.

The Moose Jaw Huckers, a local crew of hardy disc golfers, have played rounds in windchill temperatures as low as minus-42 degrees Celsius.

13 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

From country to flamenco, Cultural Centre will be musically jumpin’ in the coming months The Moose Jaw Cultural Centre will be a happening place during the next nine months, as it hosts many performances ranging from opera to country to ballet to flamenco.

All performances occur in the Mae Wilson Theatre at 7:30 p.m.

Christmas with the Ennis Sisters The Ennis Sisters grace the stage on Friday, Dec. 1.

Maureen, Karen and Teresa have captivated audiences for years with their highly woven sibling harmonies and endearing humour. With a mix of original songs, Christmas classics, humorous recitations and a little Irish step-dancing, the evening will ignite one’s holiday spirit.

ballet. This creation is made possible through the assistance of the heirs of author Lucy Maud Montgomery.

A full-sized symphonic ballet score has been created as an extended orchestration of the Anne of Green Gables — The Musical, made possible through a partnership with Avonlea Productions Ltd. and Erinsharn Productions Ltd. The Bromantics The Bromantics perform on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024.

From Louis Prima to Ben E. King and everyone in between, these boys pay tribute to the bands that started it all.

The Bromantics are a youthful revitalization of the 1950s, with brilliant brass tones and doo-wop harmonies that keep the audience screaming for more.

The group is a cross between nostalgia and modern trends, attracting people of all ages. The songs are timeless and the dances are contagious.

The Bromantics’ animated performances have also proven to fill any size dance floor.

Piano Heist Piano Heist occurs on Friday, March 8, 2024.

Lifelong friends Nico Rhodes and Patrick Courtin are on a mission to redeem the piano and prove its status as the greatest instrument ever.

The Ennis sisters will perform in Moose Jaw on Friday, Dec. 1.

With the music of great composers, songwriters, Anne of Green Gables and performers and the use of technology, they Ballet Jorgen’s Anne of Green Gables performance present everything from classical piano pieces to occurs on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024. boogie woogie and romantic ballads. The performance combines theatre, comedy, audience participation, stories, history, and musical madness to create a world of musical wonder.

Jack Garton Musician Jack Garton performs on Tuesday, March 19 and displays a breadth of music that spans the intimate, bombastic, funny, skillful and profound.

Garton, a sometime gravedigger, tells stories from this unusual day job between catchy original folk and blues songs known to make audiences laugh, dream and dance. A lifetime musician, proficient on many instruments, his repertoire includes dazzling combinations of trumpet and accordion, Ballet Jorgen will perform Anne of Green Gables at the backed by a sensitive and groovy rhythm section.

Cultural Centre on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024.

Like an old-time showman, Garton leaves viewers The creation of this performance is monumen- humming his tunes, tired from dancing and in love tal for the company and enables it to present this with the mystery of life. uniquely Canadian story to communities across Jake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys the country. Ballet Jörgen’s Anne of Green GaJake Vaadeland & The Sturgeon River Boys perbles — The Ballet will be the first time the story form on Saturday, April 20, 2024. has been authorized for creation as a full-length Vaadeland is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist 14 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

and songwriter from Saskatchewan with a traditional sound and unique style that blends Bluegrass and ‘50s Rockabilly. He specializes in guitar and banjo and focuses on storytelling and relatable messages in his music and performances with The Sturgeon River Boys.

He has received multiple awards, including Roots/ Folk Artist of the Year and Album of the Year at the Saskatchewan Music Awards in 2022, and Fans’ Choice Entertainer of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Alternative Country Album of the Year and Emerging Artist of the Year at the Saskatchewan Country Music Awards in 2022.

His album Retro Man also finished No. 2 in fan voting for Album of the Year at the Saskatchewan Music Awards in 2021.

Flamenco Borealis Flamenco Borealis performs on Saturday, May 4, 2024.

QADAR: A Date with Fate is a live flamenco music and dance theatre show presented by Flamenco Borealis.

This production tells the story of one’s struggle with fate. Elaborate textures of world music and intricate choreographies woven in a rich tale help raise questions about the nature of destiny and fate.

It explores the role of companionship in finding strength, purpose and control in life.

Flamenco Borealis is an internationally recognized flamenco music and dance company based in Saskatoon. Its work has been supported by SK Arts, Creative SK and the Canada Council for the Arts.

Flamenco Borealis artists are joined by talented local and international guest artists for this performance.

For tickets, visit sasktix.ca. To learn more about OSAC and its 2023-24 season, visit osac.ca.

Standing as a symbol of strength and cultural significance, life size buffalo sculpture completed at Moose Jaw Tourism site

Submitted photo

The completion of a buffalo sculpture created by local metal artist Bill Keen was made official in early October with the final installation of a plaque at Moose Jaw Tourism site.

Previously, the life-sized steel bison sculpture was officially installed in late July 2023, and the site’s landscaping and pathway work were completed in August.

In October of 2022, The City of Moose Jaw Public Art Committee, with approval from City Council acquired the buffalo sculpture covering material cost totalling $8,295.00 to honour

the millions of bison that once roamed the Prairies — and their importance as a symbol of strength, resilience and cultural significance reflecting the region’s heritage.

After hundreds of hours of labour donated by Bill and Laurette Keen, the buffalo sculpture — welded in layers of steel and roughly six feet high and eight feet long brought this vision to life.

“The bison sculpture portrays the iconic American Bison in a powerful stance, symbolizing strength, unity, and protection,” stated the press release.

15 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

“It serves as a tribute to the vast herds that once roamed North America’s plains, highlighting their cultural and environmental importance …and also stands as a testament to the City’s commitment to preserving its unique history and the stunning landscapes that define our region.”

The creative process began with a skeletal structure of steel rods, followed by the meticulous application of six to eight layers of weld to achieve the desired finish. A remarkable 450 pounds of MIG .035 welding wire was used. To give the sculpture its natural appearance, it received two coats of oil[1]based primer for sealing and three coats of colored paint.

Moose Jaw Cultural Centre books multi-platinum Saskatchewan rock band ‘The Sheepdogs” to play January 24, 2024

The Moose Jaw Cultural Centre announced in September that the Sheepdogs, formed in Saskatoon in 2004, are coming to the Mae Wilson stage on January 24, 2024, with tickets available for purchase online and at the Cultural Centre box office.

The Sheepdogs’ founders all met while attending the University of Saskatchewan. After deciding to form a band, they released three albums essentially alone, using artwork and equipment from friends and family, doing their own mixing, and remaining without a long-term major label contract.

That all changed, famously, in 2011, when they won a contest and became the first unsigned act to make the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine. Since then, their popularity has skyrocketed, and their beards, long hair, stage presence, and musicianship have become known worldwide, winning them millions of fans. They have had two platinum- and one gold-certified album, made multiple television appearances, and have won four Juno Awards, among many award nominations and wins.

Some of the band’s biggest singles include “I Don’t Know”, “Who?”, “The Way It Is”, and “Feeling Good”.

Current band members include: • Ewan Currie – lead vocals, guitars, keys, primary songwriter (2004–present) • Ryan Gullen – bass, backing vocals (2004– present) • Sam Corbett – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2004–present) • Shamus Currie – keys, trombone, guitars, backing vocals (2012–present) • Ricky Paquette – guitars, backing vocals (2022–present)

The Sheepdogs on stage (The Sheepdogs/Facebook)

The band will come to Saskatchewan fresh off a massive European tour, playing festivals and venues in Copenhagen, Stockholm, Hamburg, Paris, London, Berlin, Wien, Milan, and Madrid, to name just a few.

Find out more about the band and follow them online at thesheepdogs.com, and get tickets early from the Cultural Centre box office or online through Sasktix.ca.

Come be Inspired.... with the latest design trends for you and your home. From purses and jewellery to wine glasses and vases to custom furniture and wall art, this store has it all.

Store Hours Monday to Saturday 10:30am to 5:30pm 16 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Christmas shopping starts early at the annual Whistlestop Craft Sale

An artist displays an artwork during a past Whistlestop Craft Sale at the Exhibition Centre. File photo

The jingle of Christmas bells will soon fill the air, signifying the festive season’s arrival, so what better way to prepare for it than by attending one of Moose Jaw’s largest craft shows.

The annual Whistlestop Christmas Craft Sale is usually a two-day event at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre. This year it occurred on Friday, Oct. 21 and 22.

The craft sale is highly anticipated and attended by both vendors promoting various art, crafts and food and attendees hoping to find that special something for themselves or maybe a unique Christmas gift. It is usually a favourite way for most people to kick off the fall and winter seasons.

The event was started in 1995 by Shelley Bader, who died in May 2021. Shelley loved craft shows and travelled to as many as she could, often inviting vendors she liked to visit Moose Jaw for Whistlestop. She also had a hand in other craft shows and kept very busy with this passion.

Shelley’s son Matthew and his wife Kimber now run the craft show, which makes Whistlestop a generational family tradition.

“I started helping out at the show in 2008, and Matthew grew up helping out with Whistlestop and

going to craft sales with his mom,” Kimber Bader told the Moose Jaw Express in a previous interview. “We love it, and we’re happy to keep doing it.”

The name comes from the event’s first location at the old CPR train station. A “whistle stop” is a small town where the train wasn’t regularly scheduled, only stopping when signalled or whistled.

Whistlestop focuses on handmade, home-crafted goods. Most of the craftsmen at the show are from Saskatchewan, while some are coming from Alberta and Manitoba to participate.

“Shelley really loved the handmade goods,” Bader said.

The Baders have kept the event’s focus on that handmade goods aspect and attempt to have a good representation of all crafts, from knitted items and personalized wood carvings to Christmas ornaments and sweets and baked goods.

Many vendors also return every year because of how successful and well-attended the event is and in 2023 there were over 50 vendors attending.

The craft show took a brief break during the pandemic, but Bader said the past couple of years have had good turnouts despite public health restrictions in place. She noted that that showed organizers how important a tradition Whistlestop has become in Moose Jaw — it’s part of how many people begin the Christmas season.

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Dogs, horses and crafts: Exhibition grounds a busy place in coming months The Moose Jaw Exhibition Company’s grounds will be a jumpin’ place in the coming months, as its venues will host many dog and horse shows and several exciting craft sales.

The organization has been an entity since 1884 when its pre-cursor was established to run the Moose Jaw Hometown Fair. Through the decades, the Exhibition Company has become the primary host for various agricultural, community-wide, and social events, both private and public.

Almost 140 years after its creation, the company manages an extensive property of riding arenas, fairgrounds and convention space at 250 Thatcher Drive East. Its annual calendar of events includes about 35 livestock and equine shows.

Among them are events highlighting dressage, barrel racing, hunter/jumper shows, cutting shows and other types of agricultural gatherings.

All tallied, the Exhibition Company attracts up to 90,000 visitors per year, a large portion of that coming throughout southern Saskatchewan for equestrian association events.

The organization’s complex of buildings meets the needs of almost any celebration or attraction.

Equine and livestock events are held in three arenas. The Golden Mile Arena is set indoors, while the West Ring and Bill Gomersall arenas provide outdoor venues through the temperate seasons.

The other amenities include convention and meeting rooms. The Convention Centre sits at the south end of the property and provides 20,000 square feet of floor space, enough room for a capacity of 1,000 patrons and on-site catering services.

The Golden Nugget Centre sits adjacent to the convention centre and holds up to 230 people. This venue includes a dance floor and a bar. Both rooms are available for celebrations, from private social gatherings such as reunions, weddings and parties to larger functions like the South Saskatchewan Wildlife Association’s annual gun show in March.

The Exhibition Company also regularly books a variety of craft, antique and collectibles shows.

Finally, the grounds are home to the Moose Jaw Dog Club, which provides members with a gated

Photo MJ Exhibition/Facebook

dog run, dog training facilities and service, and competition through the Agility Association of Canada.

Upcoming events on the exhibition grounds include: • • • • •

Nov. 4-5: Dog club agility competition Nov. 17-18: TLC Art and Craft Show Nov. 18-19: Dog club agility competition Jan. 13, 2024: Ranch-roping competition, where riders cut out a cow from a herd and capture it Feb. 3-4, 2024: An introductory hunterjumper show for less experienced riders

Contact the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company for more information on events, facility rental availability and other services. The organization can be reached at 306-692-2723, by email at moosejawexh@sasktel.net, on Facebook and online at moosejawex.ca.

18 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Moose Jaw Community Players provide welcoming, fun outlet for performing arts enthusiasts

Moose Jaw Comand costume demunity Players sign, sound and provide a welcomlighting, makeup, ing, fun outlet for props, and stage performing arts management. enthusiasts The Community The name has Players have a gone through a dedicated team of few revisions, but volunteers who the non-profit work behind the amateur theatre scenes to make company now each show a succalled the Moose cess. They also Jaw Community collaborate with Players has been local businesses entertaining the and organizations local community, to secure venues, the surrounding equipment, and district, and com- The Moose Jaw Community Players hold their first cast read-through materials for their petitive theatre for Notoriously Moose Jaw, an original production that went on to sellproductions. festival audiences out the Mae Wilson in April 2023 (MJCP/Facebook) The MJCP have reacross southern Saskatchewan for nearly six dec- cently found a permanent home in the Moose Jaw ades.

Cultural Centre. They have their own workshop The troupe competes in regional and provincial space, storage, and rehearsal area, and are focussed play festivals, performs dinner theatres, and offers on expanding their membership to continue puta variety of shows throughout the year. They have ting on ambitious performances. put on over 100 performances during a 57-year In 2023, the MJCP held an open house that saw history, and more than 1,000 people have been indozens of prospective members come to investivolved in those productions. Whatever the name, gate; sold out the Mae Wilson Theatre for several the troupe has created solid productions, both acclaimed performances of Notoriously Moose licensed and original, and won many provincial Jaw, an original work by Burgher, Joan Stumborg, awards. and the late Tara Gish; and held well-attended castThe troupe also provides opportunities for new ing calls for their fall performances and a murder/ theatre enthusiasts to learn and grow in the permystery acting workshop series. forming arts, and for the seasoned to stretch and Their fall performances were held in October, with exercise their performing muscles. The Moose Jaw three two-in-one shows consisting of back-to-back Community Players (MJCP) offer acting work- plays (for a single ticket): shops suitable for beginners and experienced ac- • “Cut” by Ed Monk — A group of actors retors alike, covering topics such as improvisation, hearses a play within a play within a play character development, voice projection, and stage • “The Whole Shebang” by Rich Orloff — presence. The workshops are led by seasoned di“What if the entire universe was just some rectors such as writer-director/teacher Debbie nerd’s science project?”

Burgher, who spent a career as a high school draThe Community Players are always looking for ma teacher and has led multiple award-winning new members to join their friendly and supporttheatre seasons with the MJCP, and performers ive group. Whether you want to act on stage, work like local business owner Crystal Milburn, whose backstage or simply enjoy watching live theatre, passion for the arts has fueled her years-long inyou can find your place in the troupe. The Comvolvement with and support of the troupe. munity Players are open to people of all ages, backIn addition, the troupe actively seeks out and grounds, and skill levels. welcomes anyone who wants to get involved in The best way to contact the MJCP is to find them other aspects of theatre production, such as set on Facebook.

19 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Don’t miss the WDM’s upcoming fall and winter programming

From equestrian transportation to Halloween to a settler’s Christmas, the WDM has something for everybody

The Western Development Museum is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive. Photo by: Aaron Walker

The Moose Jaw branch of the Western Development Museum (WDM) has a busy schedule for the upcoming fall and winter season that you don’t want to miss.

The WDM will remain open throughout the year for self-guided visits, and in addition to this, the museum holds regular programming to support its mission of sharing Saskatchewan’s history and bringing new life to the people who helped shape our province.

Halloween Each year, the WDM hosts a Halloween event designed for a younger crowd and provides some added entertainment during the fall season. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 28, and gives room for children to trick-or-treat without having to decide between two options.

Children will love the opportunity to conduct a scavenger hunt throughout the museum, and with

a little decorating the venue provides an eerie yet fascinating atmosphere perfect for the spooky spirit of the season.

Guests are welcome to dress up in their best Halloween costumes and everyone is invited to attend.

The details of the event are still being planned, and the starting time will be announced shortly.

For updated information, visit the museum’s website at wdm.ca or contact Alexis Jones.

A Christmas Long Ago For the holiday season, the WDM is planning a Christmas-themed event called “A Christmas Long Ago.” The theme for the event is “an early settler’s Christmas” according to Jones, and it shows what life would have been like during the early days of prairie settlement. Guests will have the opportunity to compare the traditions and lifestyles of our early pioneers to what life is like today.

“For A Christmas Long Ago we will set up the Sask. Hall like a settler’s house, (and it will be) kind of like grandma’s house. We will talk about the traditions of long ago,” Jones explained.

There won’t be any of grandma’s home cooking, but the exhibit will focus on traditions, artifacts, and will bring old-fashioned toys to show what children from this point in time would be looking forward to on Christmas day.

The Christmas event will be held at the WDM’s Saskatchewan Hall and will take place on Dec. 9 and again on Dec. 16. On both dates, the event is scheduled for 10 a.m. and will repeat at 2 p.m.

The exhibit is still being planned. For the latest information, check the museum’s website at wdm.ca.

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Gitty Up and Whoa The WDM is also partnering with Senior’s Centre Without Walls (SCWW) for an upcoming educational presentation on equestrian history.

“I’m partnering with Seniors Without Walls, and I’m doing a talk about horses and transportation,” Jones said. Her presentation will be called “Gitty Up and Whoa.”

The talk will take place over the phone and is focused on the history of transportation along with equestrian body language and similar topics.

Phone-based seminars are scheduled for Oct. 25, Nov. 22, and Dec. 20. On each respective date, the call will take place at 10:30 a.m.

SCWW is a telephone-based service that provides seniors the opportunity to socialize, learn, and stay connected from the comforts of home. The organization’s programming ranges from wellness seminars to educational lectures and gives participants the opportunity to join discussions and meet new people over the phone.

Virtual Coffee Club Throughout the year, the WDM hosts the Virtual Coffee Club on Zoom. In the presentations, a guest speaker will discuss a given topic for around 45 minutes and this will be followed by an open floor where the digital audience can ask questions.

The purpose of the club is to help seniors in the community feel less isolated, and the virtual format allows the museum to offer programming that is more accessible and inclusive.

All presentations will be held at 10 a.m. on the respective dates.

On Thursday, Sept. 28, Annie Battiste from the Office of the Treaty Commissioner will discuss the basics of treaty land acknowledgement, as well as some of the history behind current treaties.

On Thursday, Oct. 26, Karin Steuber from the Saskatchewan Archaeological Society will discuss Indigenous projectile points known as arrowheads and will fuse archaeological research with Indigenous perspectives.

On Thursday, Nov. 23, Julie Jackson with the WDM’s collections department will discuss behind-the-scenes work at the museum, and participants will learn about accessioning and de-accessioning the museum’s collection of artifacts.

On Thursday, Dec. 21, Diana Savage with the WDM’s exhibits department will discuss museum exhibits and talk about the process behind setting up an exhibit and how exhibits are created.

Programming for the virtual coffee club is expected to continue through to June 2024, with further presentations to be announced around January 2024.

There is no cost for the presentation, but pre-registration on the WDM’s website is required.

The WDM is the largest human history museum in Saskatchewan and features a collection of over 75,000 artifacts across four locations. The Moose Jaw branch specializes in the history of transportation.

The museum is open five days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is closed on stat holidays. During the winter months, the museum is closed on Mondays from January to March.

Further details on these and other upcoming events will be posted on the museum’s website, wdm.ca.

For more information, Alex Jones can be reached at 306-693-5989 or at ajones@wdm.ca.

The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.

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The Western Development Museum will hold blacksmithing courses this fall and winter The blacksmithing course will have four intakes

The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive. Photo by: Aaron Walker

The Western Development Museum’s (WDM) blacksmithing course has returned, and curious guests can explore the trade and learn a few basics in the field of metal working.

This year’s course will be held at the WDM Corporate Office in Saskatoon, Sask.

“The blacksmithing course is a three-day course,” said museum programs coordinator Alexis Jones.

“It’s an instruction to forge work, blacksmith tools, shaping hot metals, heat treating, and forge welding,” she explained.

Instruction will be provided by three experienced blacksmiths who are volunteers at the WDM. These blacksmiths are Rick Dixon, Murray Stachura, and Mont Wilkins.

Anyone interested in taking the course is asked to book well in advance, as there are a limited number of spots available.

According to Jones, each blacksmithing course will have 10 spots available, and this is to provide better hands-on instruction and helps accommodate limited space for the active learning portion of the course.

To accommodate the limited course intake, there are four iterations of the same course to provide more opportunity to enrol.

Course dates will be as follows: • Friday, Dec. 8 – Sunday, Dec. 10, 2023 • Friday, Jan. 12 – Sunday, Jan. 14, 2024 • Friday, Feb. 9 – Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024 • Friday, Mar. 1 – Sunday, Mar. 3, 2024 The course fee is $525 per ticket. Included in the registration fee are all necessary course materials and two lunches that will be provided.

“If you are a WDM volunteer or a member, you will receive a 10 per cent discount,” said Jones.

Tickets can be purchased online by visiting wdm. ca/for_adult/blacksmithing.

WDM members in good standing and volunteers can apply the 10 per cent discount by entering the promotional code “WDMMemberVolunteer” at the checkout screen.

Tickets are on sale.

The WDM Corporate Office is located at 2935 Lorne Avenue in Saskatoon and can be reached at 306-934-1400.

Due to the nature of the course, enrolment is intended for those over the age of 18.

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Hope, help, and compassion for the needy in the community of Moose Jaw Moose Jaw is not just a city, but a community that cares about its residents — especially those who are experiencing insecure access to food and housing.

Charitable, non-profit organizations in Moose Jaw offer a range of resources and services to help unhoused and hungry people find support, food, and shelter.

Square One Community, Inc. was founded in 2021 to advocate for the unhoused. They are currently working to establish a permanent, dedicated warming space and women’s shelter.

In addition to their constant advocacy work and holding awareness- and fund-raising events throughout the year, Square One regularly updates a list of resources officially called the City of Moose Jaw Extreme Weather and Food Strategy.

• The Extreme Weather and Food Strategy is available on the Square One website at www. squareonehousingmoosejaw.com.

• The resources are maintained in partnership with fellow charitable agencies and show meal and shelter times: • The Salvation Army in Moose Jaw operates a thrift store, charitable dropoff centre, and community church in the city. The Salvation Army provides weekday breakfasts from 9 to 11 a.m. from their location at 175 1st Avenue North East.

• The John Howard Society in Moose Jaw is a non-profit whose mission is to support, advocate for, intervene on behalf of, and provide resources to individuals at risk of or currently involved in the criminal justice system. John Howard Society provides sandwiches and snacks to the needy on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from their office at 15 Hochelaga Street West.

• Moose Jaw Food Bank is a community supported food bank that provides food bags on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from their location at 270 Fairford Street West. The food bags are available from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and are followed by a food surplus giveaway at 1 p.m. after the Food Bank has completed its family hamper distribution for the day.

• Riverside Mission, owned by Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, which provides an emergency shelter for men

A crowd gathers on the steps of Zion United Church on Main Street in Moose Jaw to support the Square One ‘Walk for Warmth’, a fundraising rally for the unhoused

and meals, clothing, and personal hygiene items for the unhoused and for low-income individuals and families. Riverside Mission offers takeout lunches on weekdays from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. from their shelter location at 40 Manitoba Street East.

• Riverside Mission also supplies supper each weekday evening from 5 to 6 p.m.

• On weekends, a bagged lunch is distributed to the needy on the steps of St. Aidan Anglican Church at 124 1st Avenue North East. Volunteers hand out lunches from 10 to 10:30 a.m.

Other agencies providing compassionate and welcoming aid to Moose Jaw’s unhoused population include the Moose Jaw Housing Authority, which manages subsidized housing units for seniors, families, and individuals with disabilities or special needs; the Moose Jaw Transition House, which provides safe haven for women and children fleeing domestic violence or abuse, temporary shelter, counselling, crisis intervention, and support groups to help women and children heal and rebuild their lives; and the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council, a non-profit organization that promotes diversity and inclusion in the city, most notably assisting government agencies with settlement services, language classes, employment assistance, and cultural events for newcomers and immigrants. The Multicultural Council also supports the unhoused who are newcomers or immigrants by connecting them with appropriate resources and services.

Whether you are visiting or living in Moose Jaw, you can find help and hope in this community.

23 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Festival of Trees hospital fundraiser brings Christmas magic for more than 30 years

Guests admire the spectacular displays at the annual Festival of Trees (Randy Palmer)

The Moose Jaw Health Foundation’s Festival of Trees has been combining Christmas holiday magic with fundraising chops for more than 30 years in support of the city’s regional hospital.

In that time, the festival has raised nearly $5 million for what is now the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, making it one of the most well-equipped facilities in Saskatchewan.

Past festivals have helped purchase anything from ultrasound wands to high-tech intensive-care beds, from dialysis equipment to neo-natal incubators.

The 2022 Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) Festival of Words, for example, raised $173,000 for lab and surgery equipment.

In 2023, the festival’s focus has turned pink — funds this year will contribute to the purchase of specialized MRI and surgical equipment that will increase breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

That’s why the 2023 Festival of Trees was held on October 21 rather than the usual date in November. October is recognized internationally as the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The main attractions at the MJHF Festival of Trees are always the lavishly decorated Christmas trees that give the event its name. Businesses in the community generously give their support to Moose Jaw’s hospital annually by sponsoring a tree, which is then auctioned off during the event itself.

Highlights each year include the so-called “Rockefeller Tree”, named after the famous tree in New York. The tree is 18 feet high, covered in nearly 3,000 LED lights, and installed in the lobby of the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital to brighten the hearts of patients, their families, and the staff.

For almost a decade, the tree has been sponsored

by Murray GM in Moose Jaw — raising $140,000 so far.

Other trees are themed on Christmas scenes like the traditional Nativity, or children playing in their yards or sledding, or on holiday traditions such as eating plenty of delicious food.

The Festival of Trees includes a spectacular meal each year. This year will feature a prime rib buffet and seafood tower, with ingredients sourced as locally as possible.

The UnCoolas, a local group with decades of musicianship and a rock-solid reputation for making the party hop, played the nite away following the dinner and auction at this year’s event.

Moose Jaw Express entry for the 2023 Festival of Trees.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

Another Festival of Trees tradition is the Sunday brunch, held at noon the next day, sponsored by the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary is an all-volunteer non-profit group that operates the hospital’s gift shop.

All in all, the Festival of Trees is a classic Moose Jaw holiday event and an unmissable charity party.

Festival organizers are fond of noting that no other event quite compares, and no charitable event has done more for the local hospital.

24 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Elk Lodge’s entry for the 2023 Festival of Trees. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Evans Florist’s entry for the 2023 Festival of Trees.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

Moose Jaw Express is a proud supporter of the Festival of Trees fundraiser event.

Murray GM’s entry for the 2023 Festival of Trees. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Sask. Water’s entry for the 2023 Festival of Trees. Photo by: Aaron Walker

The “Tuscany Culinary Escape” by Winspire donated by the Moose Jaw Health Foundation and “Go Warriors Go” experience donated by the Moose Jaw Warriors (2023).

25 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Moose Jaw Warriors: NHL stars of tomorrow playing here today for 40 years For the past 40 years, the Moose Jaw Warriors have remained one of the hottest tickets in town during the winter months.

And for good reason.

Fans of the Western Hockey League club revel in the opportunity to catch future stars of the National Hockey League in action as they develop into top-flight prospects and eventually make their way to the big leagues.

That’s not taking into account the quality of hockey, either, as some of the best 20-and-under players in the country take the ice on 11 teams across western Canada and the northwestern United States. Teams play a 68-game schedule, with 34 dates taking place at the home of the Warriors, the 4,500-seat Moose Jaw Events Centre.

While the Warriors haven’t won a WHL championship in their long history, they’ve come as close as can be, reaching the league final in 2006 before falling to the Vancouver Giants. The team also has a Scotty Munro Trophy as the top regular season team in the WHL, a record they achieved during their 52-win campaign during the 2017-18 season.

And those future NHLers? There have been a lot of them.

More than 50 players from the Warriors have cracked the NHL over the last four decades, with the first to do so remaining one of the most famous players in team history -- none other than Calgary Flames star Theoren Fleury, who went on to put up 1,088 points over 16 NHL seasons after setting team points records in his time in Moose Jaw. Fleury’s number nine is one of four retired by the Warriors, including former Edmonton Oilers standouts Ryan Smyth (28) and Kelly Buchberger (24) along with multiple Stanley Cup winner Mike Keane (25).

If you’re looking for former Warriors to cheer for in the NHL today, the team has you covered on that front as well.

The Moose Jaw Warriors are one of the hottest tickets in town during the winter months as they feature the NHL stars of tomorrow playing here today.

Two-time Stanley Cup champion Brayden Point of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Toronto Maple Leafs all-star defenceman Morgan Rielly both starred in Moose Jaw before they starred in the NHL and continue to thrill fans nightly.

The current Warriors have no shortage of potential future stars, either, led by defenceman and team captain Denton Mateychuk. The slick puckmoving defenceman was selected 12th overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets and is one of three players selected in the Draft on the team.

Jagger Firkus joined Mateychuk with his selection in 2022, going 35th overall to the Seatle Kraken, while Brayden Yager was selected 14th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the 2023 NHL Draft.

For more information on the Moose Jaw Warriors, including how to purchase tickets, be sure to visit their website at www.mjwarriors.ca.

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Get artsy through the winter months with the MJ Museum & Art Gallery

The MJMAG in winter, on Langdon Crescent in the City of Moose Jaw’s Crescent Park (staff file photo)

The Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery (MJMAG) is one of the city’s cultural centres and hosts a permanent Heritage Gallery along with regular exhibitions rotated through the Norma Lang Art Gallery.

The MJMAG also hosts art classes year-round for all ages, featuring a wide range of instructors teaching everything from basket-weaving to watercolours, from clay sculpting and pottery to Indigenous beadwork.

In the 2023 fall season, the MJMAG is hosting Wakšúpi: Lakota Beadwork, curated by Dr. Claire Thomson, paired with “How the Sky Carries the Sun” by Métis art professor and artist Katherine Boyer.

The twinned exhibitions are up and will run until Dec. 31, 2023.

Wakšúpi: Lakota Beadwork is a fresh look at wakšúpi (Lakota for beadwork) from the MJMAG permanent collection. Dr. Claire Thomson had worked with the MJMAG during her Ph.D research and was asked to curate an exhibition following her successful thesis defence.

Dr. Thomson is Lakota and examines the history, craft, symbolism, and significance of Lakota beadwork through the lens of the Lakota themselves.

This is a contrast with most available histories, which place Lakota artifacts in Western contexts.

“How the Sky Carries the Sun” is Katherine Boyer’s examination of her own dual identities as a white Settler and as a Métis person. Boyer grew up in Regina and spent considerable time at her grandparent’s farm in Grenfell, but did discover her Métis heritage until later in life. She also integrates aspects of her identity as a Queer person, giving

An intricate beadwork vest by Katherine Boyer for her exhibition “How the Sky Carries the Sun” (MJMAG/ Facebook)

her yet another personal layer to interweave and explore in her art.

Boyer expresses these relationships and their possible and realized dichotomies as a contrast between the sun and the sky, and created all-new work for this latest show.

Another attraction featured at the MJMAG in the 2023/24 season is the annual Moose Jaw Art Guild lobby show. The Art Guild’s theme this year is ‘Sparkle’ — contributing artists are free to interpret that theme how they wish, in whatever medium they wish.

Sparkle will open with a reception at the MJMAG on Nov. 9 from 5 to 7 p.m. The community exhibition is a long-standing relationship between the guild and the MJMAG, and the veterans and amateurs who together form the guild’s membership always create diverse, interesting, skilled variations on the year’s theme.

Art classes at the MJMAG will include a still life drawing program with artist Charles Buchanan on Sundays from Oct. 1 to 22; CREATEabilities in October and November, a special program for individuals with special needs and learning differences; and two ‘Autumn Hues’ acrylic painting workshops in late November with artist Edie Marshall.

Classes tend to fill up quickly. Information on the current offerings, program costs, how to register, and upcoming guest artists can be found online at www.mjmag.ca/artclasses.

The MJMAG will rotate their regular gallery exhibitions in January 2024.

28 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Where to find the best tobogganing hills in Moose Jaw

Tobogganing, hot chocolate and marshmallows after make a fun winter’s day for kids Not every fun outing has to incur an expense, and some of the fondest memories from life on the Canadian prairies are made by children racing down the tobogganing hills.

The tobogganing hill near Vanier is located just west of Fourth Avenue Northwest. Photo by: Aaron Walker (Google Maps screenshot)

Photo by: Aaron Walker (Google Maps screenshot)

Three of Moose Jaw’s best tobogganing sites are: Buzzy’s Hill By far, the most renowned tobogganing hill in Moose Jaw is Buzzy’s Hill. The South Hill site is located on Valleyview Drive along the rim of the Wakamow Valley.

To access the hill, turn off Ninth Avenue West onto Valleyview Drive and parking is available along the top rim of the hill. Alternatively, you can approach the location by driving down Seventh Avenue Southwest.

Buzzy’s Hill is arguably the most popular tobogganing site in town. Photo by: Aaron Walker (Google Maps screenshot)

Most tobogganers find the portion of the hill closer to Seventh Avenue Southwest to be ideal, as there is a suitable clearing in the trees and the river is a fair distance away.

Younger tobogganers are advised to keep to the east where the hill is less steep, and more seasoned thrill seekers will usually find a small jump or two that has been set up.

Vanier ball diamonds A second good tobogganing location is located

near Vanier Collegiate Institute, located along Macdonald Street. The ball diamonds are located at the intersection of Macdonald Street and Fourth Avenue Northwest.

To access the ski hill from the top, drivers can take the back alley running north off Macdonald Street or south off Laurier Street West.

There is a flat site at the top of the hill that’s suitable for parking, and the run is a safe distance from roadways or other hazards.

Happy Valley Happy Valley is another well-known venue and is located east of the Town ‘N’ Country Mall.

To access the tobogganing hill, take Saskatchewan Street East and then turn north on Wolfe Avenue.

From here, take a right-hand turn on Oak Street and the road will take you down into the valley.

The valley has a few hilly sites that are free of trees, and being in a valley it provides a bit more shelter on a day with gusting winds.

No matter which site you choose, remember to dress warm and find a site that isn’t too steep for you or your child’s level of confidence.

And after, a cup of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows makes a wonderful finale to a fun winter’s day.

The hill at Happy Valley is located just off Oak Street.

Photo by: Aaron Walker (Google Maps screenshot)

29 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Moostletoe Tour growing in 11th annual tour in 2023

This is the 11th annual Moostletoe Tour; a highlight in local artistry

The Moostletoe Artists Studio Tour — which celebrates local talents’ creativity and vibrant artwork every year — welcomed four new groups in 2023, including those who focus on photography, pottery and paintings.

The 11th annual tour saw artists open their studios and offer visitors up-close and informal interactions. This popular annual tour also lets residents do some early Christmas shopping.

This year’s event occurred on Saturday, Nov. 4. As usual, visitors can pick up a tour passport, acquire a stamp at each stop and then leave it at the last studio visit for a chance to win a gift basket.

This multi-stop event is open to all ages, and admission is free. A map can usually be found on the group’s Facebook page or at the Yvette Moore Gallery.

The four new groups this year included Nissa Gieni-Wareham, Dorothy Yakiwchuk and Kathy Verbeke, Ron Dormer, and Dave Pelletier.

Gieni-Wareham operates artisaNGrounds out of the Hammond Building and creates paintings and

pottery. She also hosts public classes and leads private parties.

“She’s fun and spunky and full of lots of new ideas, which is nice because we have to keep it (the tour) fresh,” said organizer Laura Hamilton.

Pelletier is the board chair of the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMAG) and showcases his artwork.

Yakiwchuk and Verbeke operate the Mud Pie Girls’ pottery studio at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre and have been business partners and friends for six years.

Faithe Sovdi — one of four members of the River Street Potters, which joined last year — invited the Mud Pie Girls to participate this year since both groups operate in the same building, said Hamilton.

Hamilton also noted that during the organizing committee’s first meeting, they discussed the need to add another artist who created different artwork, so someone suggested Dormer. He operates a photography business out of his house, but the Cultural Centre hosted him in the lobby this year.

“I think it’s good (to add him). We need to have new artwork, and so, [additions like him are] going to complement the show,” Hamilton added.

Some individuals who showcased in 2022 but are not in this year include Bill and Laurette Keen, Erin Zimmerman, Beth Crabb and Jazenta Saultier.

During that kickoff meeting, members also expressed disbelief at how the Moostletoe Tour was in its 11th year while acknowledging that it was still surviving even after a pandemic, Hamilton said.

She recalled that Monica De Campo developed the tour idea after seeing it elsewhere. She approached

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several artists about starting something here, with many agreeing to join.

Some founding members were Wendy Parsons and Zach Dietrich of Parsons Dietrich Pottery, the Keens, Yvette Moore, Grant McLaughlin and the MJMAG. Hamilton joined during the tour’s fourth year and eventually became the main organizer. She thought she had done a good job leading since she understood the founders’ vision.

“I don’t want to stray away from (that foundation).

I want to keep it to its roots,” she said. “The newer people that are coming in, they have wonderful ideas and I want to use their ideas. But I don’t want to move away from what (the founders) created in that first year.”

Balancing tradition and new ideas has gone well for Hamilton because she describes herself as easygoing. Moreover, she thoughtfully reflects on what exists and what can be added so the tour remains current with trends.

“We’re in a rhythm. We’ve got it down pat,” added Hamilton. “It’s a well-oiled machine now.”

If you were unable to attend this year’s event, plan for next year. The event usually takes place in early November each year.

Follow the Moostletoe Tour on Facebook.

2023 Moostletoe Tour artists The Laura Hamilton Art studio is at 128 Blue Sage Drive. She paints nostalgic and whimsical oil paintings, while her signature collection includes limited edition reproductions, pillows, bags, notebooks, cards and the ever-popular calendars.

The Yvette Moore Gallery features the exclusive art collection of artist Yvette Moore. It carries an extensive collection of handcrafted pottery and jewelry in Saskatchewan.

Artist Jess Zoerb is at The Art House on 720 Second Avenue Northeast.

The Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMAG) is hosting Jude Radwanski of Firefly Art Jewellery and board chairman Dave Pelletier.

Nissa Gieni-Wareham of artisaNGrounds is in suite 423 of the Hammond Building.

Beth Barrett of One Sweet Dream Pottery is at 1211 Fifth Avenue Northwest. She creates functional stoneware that is dishwasher and microwave-safe.

The Moose Jaw Cultural Centre is hosting three groups, including Melanie McFarlane, Shannan Taylor, Faithe Sovdi and Dianne Newman with River Street Potters, Dorothy Yakiwchuk and Kathy Verbeke with Mud Pie Girls and Ron Dormer Photography.

38 High St. West Moose Jaw | 306-692-7888 | Hours: Monday - Saturday 9am - 5:30pm

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Red Seal horticulturalist Leslie Cornell offers winter garden tips

Leslie Cornell is the owner of Cornell Design & Landscaping, located 11 km south of Moose Jaw As the weather cools, gardeners are faced with together to prevent this contortion. some of the biggest challenges of the season.

Another issue is sun scalding, which occurs when Leslie Cornell, owner of Cornell Design & Landtemperatures rise during the winter and results in scaping, is here to provide a few tips and tricks to exposed bark freezing. This can severely damage help gardeners ensure the survival of their plants the tree. this winter.

Anything that reflects sun from the exposed porFall cleanup tion of the plant is helpful.

Cornell Design & Landscaping has a yard care ser- When planting a new tree, it’s good practice to vice to help with tedious fall chores. face low branches to the south in order to provide Fall is a good time to trim plants and clean up shade during the winter months. flower beds. Some annuals can be left until they die Roses should not be pruned in the fall, as this can back, but it’s good practice to remove a few each trigger new growth and cause severe damage as the week and avoid a single last-minute effort. cold sets in. A fresh cut can trigger growth and inThe company’s snow removal service is perfect for terrupts the plant from going dormant. homeowners and small businesses alike. It oper- Create a microclimate ates on an as-needed basis and is a good considera“Some people like to push another zone… Sometion after the next snowstorm.

“Some people can call us for a one-time service, and yet if you book for the season, you get a discounted rate,” Cornell said. There is also a 15 per cent labour discount for adults over the age of 55.

Insulation The foremost challenge in winter is to adequately insulate outdoor plants.

Cornell said that any ground cover is a good idea, and many seasoned gardeners including herself like to apply leaves from the fall cleanup. Once applied, leaves should be watered and allowed to freeze, which keeps them in place and the ice helps insulate the roots.

If you don’t want to use leaves, peat moss is an ideal substitute.

Any exposed branches can be covered with burlap or Styrofoam. Roses are one example, and plants from higher zones are also a concern.

Overwintering trees and shrubs With trees, the best practice is to wait for the first Leslie Cornell, owner of Cornell Design & Landscapfrost and then thoroughly water the base of the ing. Photo by: Leslie Cornell tree.

“Usually, a frost is not going to be terribly cold, like minus one or two. Even minus five is fine, because times we have a good microclimate in the yard, then it warms up again. As long as your ground is and you can push zone four and have no problem moist, it can freeze closed and not let air in (to the doing it. I’ve seen people push a zone five reliably, root system),” Cornell said. and they do it every year because they have a great Evergreens can bend under the weight of wet microclimate,” said Cornell. and heavy snow causing distorted branches. On To set up a microclimate, it’s mostly about selecta warmer day, branches can bend, and when the ing the right location. temperature plummets the branches are frozen Factors involved in microclimate design include into a new shape. temperature, light, wind speed, and moisture levWith a burlap cover or netting, the tree can be held els. If you can establish a local enclave separate 32 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

from the surrounding environment, then you’re likely to see a greater success rate in the survival of your plants.

Houseplants Houseplants need more water as the furnace runs, because conditions grow dryer and warmer indoors.

“It’s all related to how much the furnace is running and making the air dry, and how much light they are getting,” explained Cornell. “If you have a grow light, then you can water as per normal.”

Fertilizing typically follows a watering schedule, and this is also affected by the season.

Succulents rest between October and early January, so watering can be cut back. Fertilizer should be applied at half of the typical dosage. When the plants spring back to life in January (or as per the plant), you can resume normal dosages.

Many people assume a south-facing window is the best location. This isn’t always true, Cornell warns.

Certain plants thrive in shady conditions, and providing too much sunlight can cause sunburn.

The ideal location keeps the plant clear of heat vents and away from outside doorways. Cornell advises not to let the plants physically touch a window, as this will cause the plant to freeze.

Grow lights are an important consideration. Cornell advises eight to 12 hours during the winter and

noted that plants tend to get around 16 hours in the summer. Don’t leave the lights running nonstop though, as plants require a daily period of rest.

Cutting arrangements Late in the season, Cornell switches her focus to greenery pots designed to adorn the front step or walkway to your house, and they make the perfect gift idea.

The arrangements are made from fresh cuttings.

These cuttings typically last from December through to early March when the weather starts to warm up, thanks to a latex polymer coating.

Cornell Design & Landscaping is open throughout the year. The greenhouse closes as weather turns cool around the end of September. In the spring, summer, and fall, the company maintains a Monday to Friday yard care service, and during the winter months snow removal is available as needed.

Yard care services are available until weather conditions change and is also based on demand.

The greenhouse is expected to re-open around Monday, April 1, 2024.

For confirmation on business hours, Cornell Design & Landscaping can be reached at 306-6938733.

More information can be found on the company’s website at CornellTrees.com.

The Perfect Find is a unique gift store located in the heart of downtown Moose Jaw We carry a variety of your favourite gifting brands including Jellycat, Thymes, Capri Blue, Gourmet Village, April Cornell, Wrendale, along with a variety of other products ranging from jewellery and accessories, garden items, clothing, and children’s gifts and books.

Stop in and let us help you find the “perfect” gift for yourself or someone else.

“Goods for you home, gifts for your friends”

321 Main St N | 306-692-6806 Store Hours: Jan - May 31 Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5pm June - December 31 Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm

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710H Main St. N. • 306.693.4455 LOCATED IN SHOPPERS DRUGMART STRIP MALL, Moose Jaw 34 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

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Offers one of the City’s largest convention facilities • The buildings ranging in capacity up to 1000 people • With trade show space up to 20,000 sq ft • Banquet seating up to 1000 guest.

• Spacious grounds for parking • Liquor allowed with an obtained permit.

• Full wheelchair access Golden Nugget Center • Seating capacity up to 220 with approximately 4,400 sq ft in the hall.

• Onsite catering.

• Call for Availability and pricing Livestock facilities • Golden Mile Arena (Corral Room) Heated riding arena.

• Golden Mile Arena Show Barn has 175 show stalls • Jack Duncan Barn- Indoor Arena • Outdoor Arenas • Day Riding and Stabling available-phone for availability • Long-term Horse Boarding Watch for details next spring for the Hometown Fair.

For listings of events visit www.moosejawex.com

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Heartland Hospice welcomes new board members, reveals timeline through 2024 A Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw board meeting held in late September welcomed two additional board members, several more donations to their $1 million Capital Campaign, and the timeline of events into 2024.

Heartland Hospice was founded in 2014 to increase the number of dedicated hospice beds at Pioneer Lodge on Albert St. They have built one bed so far, and have received approval from the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) to move ahead with a complete hospice wing renovation at Pioneer Lodge: • Three dedicated hospice-palliative bedrooms; • A family resource centre with reading materials and activities for children; • A sacred space for the use of the whole facility; • A dedicated family entrance separate from the long-term care section; • A serenity garden, upon which much work has already been completed, and; • Essential palliative care training for hospice staff.

sponsor, whom we will announce in November.

We also were blessed to receive donations in loving memory of Tammy Crone and Dolores Exner, and a donation from Grant Hall Hotel from the proceeds of their art exhibit and sale during Sidewalk Days.”

Bryan said the organization’s capital campaign fund is now sitting at approximately $750,000.

Even more exciting, the hospice wing renovation project went out for tender and has recently closed — the board are now awaiting SHA selection of a contractor and an update on a timeline for construction.

Two new members added to Heartland Hospice board The two new board members at Heartland Hospice are Connie Paul and Cari Evenson-Carleton.

Paul is a retired registered nurse who spent 37 years in that career. She joined the board in memory of family and friends lost to cancer and is a cancer survivor herself.

Evenson-Carleton is an Advanced Care Paramedic with a Community Paramedic endorsement. She brings 17 years of experience in health care and a strong commitment to patient safety and advocacy.

Evenson-Carleton was inspired to join by the loss of her father to cancer in 2022. Having helped her father fulfill his wish of passing at home by providing his end-of-life care, she has a deep appreciation of the importance of hospice and palliative care.

Two HHMJ board members attended the SHA Foundation Forum on Sept. 30.

Other summer activities in support of hospice care “We also presented Jim, Sandi, and Cailean ConAngela Sereda, chair of HHMJ; Jim and Sandi Connolnolly with their limited edition giclee reproduction ly and their giclee reproduction of Yvette Moore’s ‘Petals of Hope’; Glenny Eberts, a longtime family friend of Yvette Moore’s ‘Petals of Hope’ in recognition of the Connolly’s whose hospice advocacy was a major of their $25,684 donation to the Family Room,” factor in the family’s donation (courtesy Sara Bryan) Bryan said.

Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw (HHMJ) launched The Connolly family’s name will be hung in a their Capital Campaign for $1 million to complete stained-glass piece made by a local artisan in the the renovations during their annual Gala in May hospice Family Room once it is built.

2022.

HHMJ is currently seeking bids from local arti“We scaled back our activities in the summer and sans to create donor recognition signage for the took two months off from scheduled board meet- hospice. Interested artisans are invited to contact ings, but it was still a very busy and exciting few CapitalCampaign@hhmj.ca. months for Heartland Hospice,” said Sara Bryan, “A wonderful group of community volunteers vice-chair of the non-profit’s board. worked on our Serenity Garden from late May “Over the summer we received two large dona- through early October,” Bryan said, “and without tions — an anonymous donation of $30,000 from them, the beautiful tranquil space where both paOntario, and $25,000 from a new Family Room tients and their families can enjoy nature’s thera36 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

peutic effects would not be possible. We also want to thank Marcy Duffey of Keon Garden Centre for the donation of so Petals of Hope is an original work by renowned local artist Yvette Moore, many wondercreated and donated to help HHMJ ful flowers and thank its donors (courtesy Sara shrubs. And, Bryan) of course, the Serenity Garden’s sponsors, Rob and Margaret Rigetti.”

HHMJ held its second annual Heartlights Memorial on Aug. 30, National Grief Awareness Day, in the Serenity Garden at Pioneer Lodge. The occasion is a solemn, spiritual gathering to honour the memories of those served to date in the Heartland Hospice Room, those who worked as caregivers for their needs, and their grieving family members. It is also a safe space for anyone to attend who is experiencing grief and loss.

Upcoming HHMJ events for 2023/24 November 2023 — A ‘Giving Tuesday’ online 50/50 raffle will run from November 13 to 28.

Tickets will be available at www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/

givingtuesday.

• November 25, 2023 — SK Hospice Palliative Care Associaton free seminar to encourage hospice palliative care discussions, education, and resource sharing with rural communities in Saskatchewan.

• December 2023 — Light Up The Lodge Xmas fundraising drive.

• February 8, 2024 — Trivia Night (tentative).

• March 6, 2024 — Mad Greek Rib Night Fundraiser.

• April 12, 2024 — 4th Annual Fundraising Gala, with a theme of ‘Spurs and Stilettos’.

• Summer 2024 — Hospice Grand Opening!

Date dependent on construction.

• August 29, 2024 — Heartlights 3rd Annual Memorial Ceremony.

“We are extremely grateful for all the individuals and businesses within the community of Moose Jaw who continue to support our efforts,” Bryan said. “We cannot change the outcome, but together we can affect the journey.”

Learn more about HHMJ, donate to their campaign, and access their hospice, palliative, grief, and other resources on their website at www.heartlandhospicemj.ca.

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Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade always a big hit in the lead-up to Christmas

With close to 100 entries every year, annual event draws huge crowds to Main Street parade route — and even features Santa and Mrs. Claus!

Every year, without fail, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus find a way to make an early stop in Canada’s Most Notorious City., simply because Saint Nick is more than aware that a Santa Claus Parade without him just isn’t the same. They are busy folks once the snow begins to fly.

greet the Clauses, even having a chat and taking pictures!

Plans are already coming together for the 2023 edition of the parade, with some participants even putting together ideas for their floats months in advance of the show itself.

The event traditionally takes place during the first week of December, so be sure to watch for news when Santa and Mrs. Claus will be coming back to Moose Jaw!

Some sights and scenes from the 2022 Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade.

When COVID was keeping people from gathering, Santa even hopped in the back of a truck and joined the Moose Jaw Kinsmen in a tour of the city, gathering donations for the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.

But last December, it was all systems go, and Moose Jaw made sure that not only did Santa feel welcome, he had a ton of company.

The 2022 edition of the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade — the first since the end of the pandemic -was one of the largest in recent memory, with close to 100 floats taking part and thrilling thousands upon thousands of folks young and old alike who lined Main Street to take in the festivities.

They were treated to all sorts of floats covering just about every Christmas theme, a range of parade participants handing out treats and even a few appearances by the Grinch himself.

It all led to the final float of the show, the one everyone came to see. Wide-eyed youngsters cheered as Santa and Mrs. Claus rode in their sleigh, waving to everyone they could and spreading Christmas cheer.

It all led to the Moose Jaw Events Centre, where the Kinsmen Christmas Tree was turned on for the first time and everyone had a chance to meet and 38 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Moose Jaw Events Centre remains one of the jewels of southern Saskatchewan

Home of the Moose Jaw Warriors and elite curlers continues to wow visitors more than a decade after first opening When the Moose Jaw Events Centre first opened back in the fall of 2011, visitors called it one of the jewels of southern Saskatchewan and one of the best places to take in a game in the province.

Now, more than a decade later, little has changed.

The 4,500-seat arena is the home of the Moose Jaw Warriors of the Western Hockey League, who have developed into one of the league’s top mid-market franchises thanks to the world-class facility’s presence in downtown Moose Jaw.

the ice in elementary and high school loops, a range of semi-competitive leagues during the week and the centrepiece of their schedule, the Original 16 Cash League every Wednesday night.

All those options have seen much success come out of the rink, most recently with Penny Barker winning the provincial Scotties Tournament of Hearts in 2022.

The Moose Jaw Ford Curling Centre is also a provincial hotbed of wheelchair curling, with two members of Team Canada — Marie Wright and Gil Dash — curling out of the local rink in addition to Moose Jaw hosting the Canadian Wheelchair Curling Championship in 2023 and again in the spring of 2024.

The Moose Jaw Events Centre is the home of the Moose Jaw Warriors and remains one of the best arenas in Saskatchewan.

The Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors of the Sask Male AAA Hockey League also call the place home, with local minor hockey teams of all ages The Moose Jaw Ford Curling Centre is busy every day considering it an event when they have a chance of the week with a wide variety of leagues for every age. to play there.

Outside organizations have cast an eye toward the Development of the sport is also a priority, with a arena, too, with the World Para Hockey Chamrange of learn-to-curl options offered throughout pionships having taken place at the Moose Jaw the season, often featuring current and former proEvents Centre this past spring, along with the vincial champion curlers as instructors.

Scotties Tournament of Hearts national women’s curling championship having made a pair of visits, most recently in 2020.

The facility — formerly known as Mosaic Place — has also become a popular concert venue over the years, with luminaries such as Carrie Underwood, Alice Cooper, Motley Crue and the Backstreet Boys having all played there during the past decade. And that’s not including the wide range of other shows that have stopped by, offering Moose Jaw residents experiences not available in the com- Fans of the history of sports in the local area can munity before the Events Centre opened its doors. also check out the Moose Jaw and District Sports Right next to the arena is the Moose Jaw Curling Hall of Fame, located on the second floor conCentre, another wildly popular facility that rarely course. finds itself without something going on.

For more information on the Moose Jaw Events A wide range of leagues offer lots of options for Centre, including all the upcoming events and acplayers, with older folks able to curl in the after- tivities, be sure to visit their website at www.monoon and evening senior leagues, youngsters on saicplace.ca 39 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Kinsmen Sportsplex a happening place during winter months

Arena hosts all sorts of hockey, figure skating and speedskating, swimming pool a respite from chilly weather as facility sees lots of activity Drop by the Kinsmen Sportsplex any time during the winter, and odds are you’ll find something going on.

afternoon and evening. The Sportsplex also offers a free swim every Friday night, and a free public swim every Wednesday morning.

Swim lessons and lifeguard training are also common on the calendar at various times during the

It isn’t often that there isn’t something happening the Kinsmen Sportsplex once the weather turns colder.

Be it a minor hockey game, folks enjoying a dip in the pool or just holding a meeting, you’d be hardpressed to find a time when the local recreational facility isn’t in use, and that’s for good reason.

When you have a place that can act as a hub for so many activities at once, it’s always going to be busy.

The centrepiece of the Sportsplex — located at the corner of MacDonald St W and Ninth Avenue — is the 25-metre swimming pool and related amenities, which include a leisure pool, 200-foot waterslide, hot tub and steam room.

The Kinsmen Sportsplex pool is a happening place during the winter months.

The pool hosts regular swim times throughout the day, with older folks able to swim laps in the morning or take part in adult swim every day at noon to go along with regular public swim times in the

The ice in the Kinsmen Sportsplex might be clean and pristine at the moment, but there are all sorts of activities happening throughout the season.

winter months, and you can find the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Flying Fins working on their speed in the early evenings.

The Sportsplex ice rink is equally as busy once the snow starts start to fly, with Moose Jaw Miinor Hockey making sure the ice is put to use on a nearconstant basis when things start up. You can also find the Moose Jaw Skating Club working on their routines and the Kinsmen Speed Skating Club honing their short-track abilities.

Noon hour public skates take place on Tuesdays, with weekly free public skates and drop in shinny games also a popular occurrence.

The Sportsplex also has you covered if you’re looking for something a bit different to do outdoors, with a crokicurl rink located right next to the swimming pool.

For more information on the Kinsmen Sportsplex and all they have to offer or to book facilities, visit the City of Moose Jaw website, click on the Parks and Recreation tab and find the Sportsplex link or give them a shout at (306) 694-4483.

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Stay active this fall and winter at the Yara Centre’s indoor facility

The Yara Centre provides an ideal space for you and your family to stay active The Yara Centre is a local sporting venue that was built in 2011 alongside the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

The Yara Centre is located at 1220 High Street West and is open year-round. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Built with a spacious 120,000 square foot modern indoor turf field, the Yara Centre gives residents the opportunity to stay active year-round and especially throughout the winter months.

The field can be divided into four quadrants, and each separate space can be rented out or divided up as needed to provide room for a wide selection of activities. Guests will regularly witness soccer in one corner, ultimate Frisbee in another, and any number of family activities in the remaining spaces.

A look at the Yara Centre’s 120,000 square foot modern indoor turf. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Everybody is invited to come use the facility, and aside from a spacious turf area there’s a four-lane walking track at ground level, modern gym, and two multi-purpose rooms on the upper level.

The gym is located on the upper level, and features a clean, open space for your workout. There is plenty of cardio equipment available including exercise bikes, stair climbers, and treadmills.

Strength training equipment covers a full-body workout including a chest press, leg press, and more.

Fitness classes vary from season to season.

Mondays include 55-plus activities ranging from SOUL Strength Gritty to cycle and cardio, yoga, Transform, and Cycle X classes. These classes run throughout the day between 6:05 a.m. and 7 p.m.

WINMAR Toddler Turf runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day of the week, and free toddler turf time is available on Monday and Wednesday from 10 – 11 a.m.

Tuesdays have Morning Blast classes starting at 6:05 a.m., Beats, Bands, & Ride starting at 9 a.m., 55-plus strength training, and chair yoga. The afternoon includes M.T. Step & Strength, intermediate Pilates, and Soul Strength Offbeat beginning at 6:10 p.m.

Wednesdays include FUNdamentals with Suzanne starting at 6:05 a.m., followed by 55-plus Silver Stretch, Balance, & Mobility with Gail starting at 10 a.m. In the afternoon, beginner Pilates starts at 1:10 p.m., Transform starts at 5:10 p.m., and the PWR!Moves group exercise class runs from 6:10 p.m. until 7 p.m.

Thursdays begin with Early Morning Step at 6:05 a.m., followed by 55-pus Boxing, Strength, & Stretch with Gail beginning at 10 a.m. Pilates Joint Mobility with Lauren starts at 11 a.m., and M.T. Fitness and Cycle X take place later in the day.

Fridays include 55-plus Stretch with Rita from 10 until 10:50 a.m. Free family turf time is available from 4 – 5 p.m.

Indoor golf is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday on the turf from 1 – 4 p.m., and on weekends from 8 – 9 a.m. Wednesdays are reserved for lawn bowling that takes place from 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m.

Turf space is also available to be rented out, and the policy operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

The facility is also a regular venue for sporting programs like the Moose Jaw Soccer Association and the Saskatchewan Selects all-star football program.

Fall hours for the Yara Centre are Monday to Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and weekends from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information regarding upcoming programming, classes, or for questions about rental costs, the Yara Centre can be reached at 306-6944560.

The Yara Centre is located at 1120 High Street West.

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The Moose Jaw Public Library has a wide selection of programs this winter For book lovers of all ages, the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) offers a wide range of interesting books and other programs to help keep you occupied this winter.

For the best winter reading ideas, the library’s website features a list of upcoming new releases that are sure to be a hit in the upcoming month. To ensure a shorter wait time, you can visit the library’s website to pre-order your reading selection.

The library also has an archive of digital books and other materials.

Digital books • Hoopla: gives access to hundreds of thousands of movies, TV series, eAudiobooks, and more.

• Library 2 Go: contains downloadable eBooks and eAudiobooks.

• Press Reader: gives unlimited access to over 5,000 newspapers and magazines worldwide.

• Tumblebooks: includes an online collection of animated, talking picture books for children.

The library also has a series of recurring programs that are held throughout the year. It’s a good idea to check in with the library often for an updated list of programs and special events.

Programs for all ages • Moose Jaw Chess Club: the club meets on Sundays in the South Meeting Room from 1 – 4 p.m. All ages and levels of experience are welcome.

• Tabletop Tuesdays: one Tuesday of each month, guests of all ages are invited to attend the library’s Tabletop Tuesdays. The event includes board, card, and dice games and is held 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room.

• ‘How Do I Do That?’: these workshops feature one-on-one instruction that covers everything from scholarships to resume writing to budgeting tips. The workshops are intended for those aged 15 – 25, and times and dates vary.

Programs for adults • Tech Time: one of the more popular programs, Tech Time features one-on-one assistance that helps adults learn to use newer technology. Classes are usually planned for 10 participants to provide a better learning experience.

• Needlework Night: these nights are held once a month and are focused on providing

The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and is open seven days a week. Photo by: Aaron Walker

a social outing for those who love knitting, sewing, and embroidery.

• Magic: The Gathering: participants meet every second Saturday in the library’s Reading Room. The game starts at 2 p.m., and new and experienced players are both welcome.

• Movie Club: the movie club meets up once a month to watch a film in the library’s theatre, followed by a short discussion. Movies are scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

• Space movies: the library plays a spacethemed movie on the last Thursday of each month.

• Book Club: the book club at the MJPL meets once every four weeks to discuss a different book announced in advance. The meetings are held in the Herb Taylor Room and start at 7 p.m.

Programs for youths • Teen Dungeons and Dragons: takes place on Thursdays from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Guests can meet at the library archives room and everyone aged 12 – 16 is welcome to attend.

• Teen Gamers Game Night: involves board games, card games, and a variety of video games. Game nights are held on the second Wednesday of each month and take place at 6:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room. Everyone aged 13 – 19 is welcome. No registration is required, and snacks are provided.

• Teen Art Program: takes place on the third Wednesday of every month in the Herb Taylor Room. The program is intended for ages 13 – 19.

• Teen Anime Club: takes place on Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. in the library’s theatre.

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•

BOLT (Board of Library Teens): this new initiative seeks to build a youth advisory group at the library, and teens aged 13 – 19 have the opportunity to help make the library more youth-friendly and give suggestions for upcoming programming. A registration form is available on the library’s website.

• Children’s programming: programs specific to younger children include storytime, preschool storytime, and LEGO weekends. Contact the library for more information and for specific dates and times.

Other library services • Library Archives: the library’s archives department allows you to step back in time and access historical records, newspaper articles, and photos from Moose Jaw’s past.

• Ancestry Database: for family heritage research, Ancestry.com can be expensive. The MJPL offers a free account that patrons can use to conduct research. Patrons must be physically present at the library and staff are on hand to help with any questions.

• 3-D Printing Service: the library has a 3-D

•

printer that can be utilized for public use.

More information is available at MooseJawLibrary.ca/3dprinting.

Room rentals: the MJPL has several rooms that are ideal to rent out for a variety of programming and meeting events. Call ahead to inquire about availability and note that there is a discounted rental rate for non-profit organizations.

The MJPL also hosts adult classes covering a variety of other topics, but the schedule changes frequently due to instructor availability and public interest. Your best bet is to call the library and inquire about upcoming courses.

The library is open to program suggestions and any feedback you have is always appreciated.

The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and is open seven days a week: Monday through Thursday from 9:30am – 9:00pm; Friday and Saturday from 9:30am – 6:00pm; and, on Sunday from 1:00pm – 5:00pm.

The library can be reached through their website at MooseJawLibrary.ca or by calling 306-692-2787.

Rotary Carol Festival organizers need more choirs to create successful event The Rotary Clubs of Moose Jaw are appealing for choirs to sign up for the annual Rotary Carol Festival, an ongoing holiday tradition in the city and widely seen as an important cultural event to start off the Christmas season. This is the 77th year for this much-loved tradition as the Festival has been a fixture of the holiday season in Moose Jaw for many decades. Schools and churches typically provide many of the choirs.

“Our annual Rotary Carol Festival is happening on December 4 and 5, and we would like to extend it to the 6th, but we are very short on choirs so far,” explained Susan Hanna, one of the festival’s main organizers. “This is the 77th year for the Carol Festival, and its something that the community really looks forward to at the start of the Christmas season.

“Last year, we had 16 choirs perform, and that was for two nights. Each choir prepares a couple of holiday songs, and then we have community sing-alongs between each group so they have time to prepare, and it’s just a really nice way of getting into the Christmas spirit, so we’re hoping we can get a few more groups to make this year successful.”

The Carol Festival is held at Zion United Church on Main Street, starting at 7 p.m. each night, with

The annual Rotary Carol Festival, with the dome and extensive seating of Zion United Church’s sanctuary, famous for its performance-friendly acoustics (file photo)

the event lasting about an hour and a half.

Interested choirs from Moose Jaw and surrounding region should contact Susan Hanna at 306631-8714 or by email at s.hanna@sasktel.net.

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Christmas festivities begin in Moose Jaw with Christmas in October Looking back on a story written in 2010 with the history of the event unfolding below, Christmas in October celebrated 20 years then, making this year’s 2023 version the 33rd edition to the kick-off to the Christmas season in Moose Jaw. This past October 25, 2023 The Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) featured over 30 downtown Moose Jaw businesses so that residents and visitors from all over the province could discover local gifts, decorations and other options for the upcoming holiday season. The idea of Christmas in October in Moose Jaw continues to be about focusing on buying local and supporting the businesses within the community.

According to the DMJA, they created their organization in 2019 to focus on the downtown shopping core and keeping it clean, beautifying it and promoting regular events and attractions that draw customers from all over.

Festive holiday decorations are out and participating businesses get into the celebrations by holding special sales events and making the season extra special for shoppers with special deals and gift ideas.

The history of Christmas in October goes back many years to a time when a local Moose Javian had a dream that started in her heritage home in 1989. Yvette Moore is renowned for her realistic artistic style and has been recognized with numerous awards and honours for her art and studio. With a passion for detail and a creative mind, Yvette captured the heart and spirit of prairie life in her detailed and precise paintings. Her ingenuity launched an idea that has since become a widespread and anticipated affair that has spread throughout Moose Jaw to this day—Christmas in October.

Yvette moved into her heritage home in 1989, which would house the first Christmas in October. With every room decorated with her artwork, Christmas crafts of local artisans and complete with daughters dressed as elves, the first Christmas in October was celebrated in 1990. From her home acting as her studio and gallery, Yvette reminisces about the humble beginnings of what has become an extravagant affair. Yvette enjoyed

the quaintness and comments that “it was so nice to showcase art inside a home.” And local artisans agreed. Bringing quilts, wreaths, teddy bears, and many other hand-crafted pieces, local artists were getting in the Christmas spirit early—and so were the people.

As the event grew in popularity, so did the need to house the occasion in a larger venue. The opportunity arose with the opening of Cranberry Rose on Langdon Avenue, with friend and local business owner, Liz Craigen. The tradition would carry on in the charming heritage home with even more Christmas treasures and holiday glitz. In 1999, Yvette’s dream of her own art gallery would be realized with the purchase of the Land Titles Building on Fairford Street.

The Yvette Moore Gallery has welcomed thousands upon thousands of guests—especially with the Christmas celebrations beginning every October. Throughout the years, Yvette’s signature event has welcomed the season in grand style with Christmas shopping and spirit, which has spread throughout Moose Jaw. Local businesses have embraced this memorable start to the holiday season and have come together to host events capturing the essence of the time that carries through to Christmas Day. With exquisite shopping, unique style, holiday treats and spas to indulge, it’s no wonder Moose Jaw is the place to begin your holiday experience.

Decked out and sparkled up, people anticipate the opening evening to Christmas in October as Main Street guides your way as the City of Moose Jaw gets into the spirit to trim the lights for the occasion. Yvette believes “that the reason it works so well is because of the wonderful historic downtown.” Dressed up and dazzled to host, Moose Jaw businesses echo the spirit in fine decor and enthusiasm.

Every year Moose Jaw welcomes all to come share in what the years and a whole city have created.

Depending on the year, there may not be snow, but the spirit will always be in full swing.

If you were unable to come to Christmas in October this year, there’s always next year so mark Christmas in October in Moose Jaw on your calendar.

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Celebrating

25

YEARS IN BUSINESS!

We are profoundly grateful to the wonderful community of Moose Jaw and surrounding area for the unwavering support you've shown our local business. Your enthusiasm and patronage have been pivotal in fueling the passions of our dedicated team, turning dreams into tangible realities for many among us. Serving you has not just been an opportunity, but an honor and a delightful journey we cherish. Thank you from the depths of our hearts.

Vicki Watson WWW.WRAPTURESPA.CA IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN

BOOK, SHOP + GIFT CARDS NOW ONLINE

Stronger Together: Square One’s campaign tree now at Circle Medical Centre

The tree’s first stop is the Circle Medical Centre, where Dr. Brabant is a wholehearted campaign supporter When local metal artists Bill and Laurette Keen saw a problem in the community regarding housing insecurity and mental health issues, they wanted to do something to help.

The ‘Better Together’ campaign tree was hand-crafted by local artists Laurette (left) and Bill Keen (right).

Photo by: Facebook/Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw

Doing what they do best, the Keens took the time to craft a beautiful pair of trees out of metal.

“They had this idea and put together this beautiful work of art. They had it on their heart to help those who are struggling around addictions and mental health issues,” said Della Ferguson, chairperson for Square One Community Inc, “and so they knew that those (people who are unhoused) are struggling with many issues and they really felt this would be the best fit for this program.”

The result of their effort has been the Stronger To-

gether campaign.

A new chapter for the initiative has now begun.

The metal trees and leaves containing donor names will be displayed in a variety of buildings in Moose Jaw and set up as a travelling art exhibition. The goal of the rotational display is to provide inspiration and get the conversation started.

“It’s a talking point, and it draws people into a conversation that we all need to have in the community,” Ferguson explained.

The first stop for the artwork is Circle Medical Centre located at the Civic Centre Mall Plaza. Dr. Brabant with Circle Medical is a supporter of the campaign, and the artwork is featured prominently at the front entrance of the building. To facilitate learning more about the campaign, Circle Medical Centre has added a plaque with a QR code.

“I do a lot of work with patients who struggle with addictions and homelessness. Square One has done a lot of work in helping my patient population. (In) the Stronger Together campaign, we were actually approached early (on)… to sponsor a leaf, and it was something I agreed with wholeheartedly…,” said Dr. Brabant.

The campaign operates by having volunteers sponsor a leaf on the tree. By choosing one of three categories, they can help contribute toward a solution to homelessness in Moose Jaw. The categories are bronze, silver, and gold. Bronze leaves can be sponsored for $100, silver for $200, and gold leaves for $300.

Proceeds go to the John Howard Society to support its ‘My Place’ program.

The Keens found inspiration to act when they learned about a recent death in Regina.

“The news was highlighting people who are very challenged with mental health and addiction issues. The fellow who died while being in emergency in Regina … was the story that really hurt their hearts and they said, ‘I want to be part of the solution so this doesn’t happen again,’” said Ferguson.

“I know that’s when they approached me … and they knew I am very involved in the mental health and wellness support in the community. Awareness-raising is my passion, so folks know how to reach out,” she explained.

To make the campaign idea a reality, the Keens

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Bronze leaves can be sponsored for $100, silver for $200, and gold leaves for $300. Photo by: Facebook/ Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw

partnered with Square One Community Inc. The objective of the Stronger Together campaign is to raise funds ‘to give help, hope, and heart’ to those struggling with mental health issues and housing insecurity. The aim is to allow people to achieve a meaningful independence.

To date, the Stronger Together campaign has raised $35,000 for the John Howard Society’s ‘My Place’ program.

“We are really grateful to (Bill and Laurette) for that community spirit, and for seeing a problem and wanting to be part of the solution,” Ferguson said.

To sponsor a leaf, three easy steps are required.

The first step is to choose the amount and donations are represented in gold, silver, and bronze categories.

The second step is to make a payment. E-transfer payments can be made by using “Stronger Togeth-

The ‘Stronger Together’ tree is now located at the Circle Medical Centre. Left to right: Della Ferguson and Dr. Karissa Brabant. Photo by: Facebook/Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw

er” along with your name, physical address, and email address to CommunitySquareOne@gmail. com.

Cheques can be made payable to Square One Community Inc., and the mailing address is P.O. Box 1616, Moose Jaw, SK., S6H 7K7. Be sure to write “Square One – Stronger Together” in the memo line.

The third step is to email CommunitySquareOne@ gmail.com for leaf engraving instructions. The leaves can display donations made in your own name, a business name, or in memory of a loved one.

All donors will receive a tax receipt issued by Square One Community Inc. Circle Medical Centre is located at Unit 2B, 1251 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-6933737.

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Carousel Riders offers therapeutic, co-operative environment to learn horse riding

Laura Williams, owner and head coach at Carousel Riders, is a lifelong teacher and animal lover who has created a co-operative, community-fuelled horse riding centre where ethics, hard work, friendship, and animal husbandry are just as important as riding skills.

Carousel Riders is about 10 to 15 minutes outside of Moose Jaw, on 32nd Avenue Southwest. A huge barn provides the arena where Williams teaches, along with space for tack, helmets, riding boots, and other necessary accessories, and a few stalls.

Many other corrals fill the property, providing space for boarded horses, rescued horses, retired horses, friendly farm cats, dogs, sheep, and chickens, and, currently, a baby cow needing bottle feeding (dozens of children and adults have now fallen in love with the well-cared-for little creature).

Williams started teaching as part of a program for children with special needs in 1982, at Prairie South School Division. She taught Grade 3 at Westmount, where her first son was born, at Palliser and Prince Arthur, went back to Westmount, and more. She spent a 28-year career as a teacher in many different classrooms, and says being a teacher is now an inescapable part of who she is — which is why her love of riding eventually led to teaching riding.

Laura Williams at the Moose Jaw Hometown Parade

by Jode Kivol Photography

basis, and eventually bought a teaching horse.

Then, she bought another, and another. She doesn’t believe in abandoning animals once their usefulness is over, so her working horses tend to stay with her right through retirement to the end of their lives.

Williams and her husband began building Carousel Riders just before she retired. From the start, they had the help of a community who want to be part of her vision.

“One thing that’s kind of neat about my place, and something that I’m incredibly grateful for, is that the people who have ridden here, both the kids and the adults, have often contributed a lot to building it over the years,” she said. “One student’s dad

A Carousel Riders schooling show by Jode Kivol Photography

Creating Carousel Riders “When I finally got my first horse, it was two years after I started teaching, because I needed to save up, and so I started riding. And I showed and travelled around the province with a good friend, and it was a lot of fun,” Williams explained. “And at some point, I thought, if I could teach a few kids, it could help pay for some of my horse expenses.”

She began teaching at a pony club on a volunteer

A Carousel Riders schooling show by Jode Kivol Photography

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helped weld my corral, another dad of a student helped when we were building the arena, and another friend of mine helped to build sections of the barn.

A horse’s major muscle groups illustrated by a student for a Halloween-themed educational activity (Carousel Riders Facebook) A Carousel Riders schooling show by Jode Kivol Photography

“That’s always been true, that the whole thing has not just been our work, but the work of people who have lent a hand, and in that way we’re incredibly lucky to have such wonderful people in our lives. They’ve made it possible for us to keep going, because we aren’t wealthy people, and it’s expensive and we don’t have unlimited funds. But, with the support of parents, kids, and others that have helped us, we’ve been able to expand and continue.”

Williams is an Equine Canada certified coach in both English and Western disciplines. She has done horse therapy with seniors and people with special needs and disabilities, put on special classes with other educators, ridden in the Hometown Parade for many years (because its fun for the kids), and her students have shown and competed at events across the prairies.

She partners with a certified Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) coach for several programs, which she said has been amazing for many struggling people, and often does fun, themed activities, such as encouraging students to dress up for holidays and playing games to everyone’s ability level.

Holistic learning philosophy “In some ways, I don’t see this so much as a business,” Williams explained. “It’s more a place where kids come and learn about animals, develop friendships and connections, they learn ethics in terms of working and caring for the horses, because horses take so much more work than just the riding, and their needs come first before you look after yourself in most cases.

“For example, if the kids have been riding and it’s chilly, they put a blanket on the horse before they go and warm up themselves. It’s the idea that you

learn to look after others. You learn to go and help, you know, when you see a need, and on the way you meet people and bond and now you have a new friend.”

From the first lesson at Carousel Riders, students help take care of their mount, from currying and brushing to cleaning tack and equipment, from monitoring the health of the horse to mucking out stalls. Williams does not give them responsibilities they can’t handle at their age and maturity level, but students always know they and their horse are a team — the animal is never just a means to an end.

In most sports, Williams pointed out, the athlete’s partner is a tennis racket, or a swimming suit, or a firearm and skis.

“Your equipment isn’t breathing, it doesn’t have a mind of its own. And when your partner is an 1100- or 1200-pound animal, or even 600 pounds, there’s a lot of it that’s hard. Horses don’t speak English, so it’s a different kind of communication.”

Williams believes people of all ages need a place they can go that is both purposeful and safe. That’s why she also accepts volunteers who just want to come out and help care for the animals, many of whom are rescues (all the cats were throwaways.)

“Life is just tough, and you want to give them a safe spot, because you can see some of them are struggling. And that immediately supercedes making the money. It makes running a business very tough. If you don’t make the money, you can’t pay for the hay, you can’t pay for the horses, the vet, this and that, but it is what it is.

“But there’s such a need for people to have something that recharges them and contributes to their wellness.”

Carousel Riders is on Facebook, and on the web at carouselriders.ca. Text or call Laura Williams at 306-684-1289 for more information.

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20 Caribou St E. , Moose Jaw, SK | (306) 972-9797

Come visit Moose Jaw’s best Import Candy Store!

Monday to Wednesday 11am - 6pm Thursday to Saturday 11am - 7pm Sunday 11am - 4pm

50 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Event Funding Available

155 Thatcher Dr W Moose Jaw, SK S6J 1M1 (306) 692-2100

401 Main St N Moose Jaw, SK S6H 0W5 (306) 691-2113

250 Thatcher Dr E Moose Jaw, SK S6J 1L7 (306) 692-2723

110 1st Ave NW Moose Jaw, SK S6H 0Y8 (306) 624-2040

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24 Fairford St E Moose Jaw, SK S6H 0C7 (306) 694-5055

Event Funding Available at www.visitmoosejaw.ca Ph: 306.631.0059 E: visitmoosejaw@gmail.com 51 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa “I’m spent!” Ice skating, trail hikes, and crosscountry skiing are wonderful ways to spend the cold winter days in Saskatchewan, but when you want to chill out and relax sometimes a hot bath and a body massage is the way to go. “Canada’s Dead Sea” as it’s called, is at Manitou Springs Resort and Mineral Spa. With a lovely hotel accommodating from single occupancy to large groups, this spa will pamper even the most winter-worn body. From face massage to full body wraps, this is the space to relax and rejuvenate. The pool has natural minerals to help the body heal naturally so take the day outdoors but let your evening float in the therapeutic mineral oasis.

“I’m hungry!” From Italian to Asian to North American, the Water’s Edge Restaurant can do it all. For menu options follow the link: https://manitousprings.ca/waters-edge/ And for a lighter option, the Watercrest Cafe, looking over the pool, includes: https://manitousprings.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Watercrest-Menu-2023.pdf

“I’m floating” When the meal is done and before you have had a massage, it is time for a long soak in the pool. The high concentration of natural minerals will help you float in peace and comfort. Release stress, while absorbing the healing properties of the mineral pool as it enters the body through the skin to help rebuild the body and release toxins. What a wonderful way to unwind after a long day of outdoor activities. Please note: The pool will be closed but reopen on December 8th.

“I’m breathing!” Give up your stress and all that will be needed is for you to breathe. The spa includes face and body massage, salt exfoliation, mud wraps, Herbal hot wrap massage, and aromatherapy but don’t forget the nail and hair removal options as well. For bookings contact the spa at: 800-667-7672 or 306-946-2233 ext 214. Find yourself whole again to start a new day at play.

From gliding on ice and snow to ending in an oil and mud treatment, take time this winter to visit the Manitou Springs and Mineral Spa for an unquestioned experience of fun and luxury at: Winter activities: https://manitousprings.ca/winter/ Call: 1-800-667-7672 Email: manitousprings@sasktel.net Spa treatments: https://manitousprings.ca/wpcontent/uploads/2022/12/SPA-BROCHURE-1.pdf Accomidations: https://reservations.manitousprings.ca/ Contact Watrous Tourism: https://watrousmanitou.com/

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Saskatchewan Winter - a pick-and-go playground for everyone As it seems like there is more winter than summer in the prairie provinces, there is only one way to get through the long cool days of fall and winter.

As they say, “If you can’t beat them, join them!”

With so many outdoor activities across the province from heart-pounding snowmobile trail rides to a quiet tour of twinkling Christmas lights and then relaxing with steaming hot cocoa to warm toes and noses, Saskatchewan is the facilitator of adventure, experience, and memories, you just have to pick and go. https://www.todocanada.ca/15-christmas-andwinter-holiday-getaways-in-saskatchewan/ Seasonal park passes are $82, weekly passes are $42 and daily passes are $11. Over 65 years old can receive free park entry.

Website: http://www.saskparks.com Reservations: https://parks.saskatchewan.ca/ Buffalo Pound Provincial Park Located about 30 kilometers northeast of Moose Jaw and 86 kilometers northwest of the city of Regina, Buffalo Pound offers cross-country skiing, fat bike trail riding, winter camping, Bison watching, outdoor campfires, and more. The old chalet offers a warm place to explore with its interpretive display, while the newly renovated visitor’s center is home to Travelling Bakery with warm delights and hot coffee.

Take part in their New to Nordic program on Saturdays at 1 p.m.

And if you’re looking for wildlife, check out the Showshoe to Bison with park interpreters on Saturday at 4 p.m.

Then, of course, there’s ice fishing. Find some space and drill a hole and haul in your limit of walleye and northern pike! www.tourismsaskatchewan.com

year-round yurts. After September 30th, there is no sewer or water but still electrical sites online booking for Lakeside (trailers up to 40 ft but only 7 sites) and Elmview (tents/trailers less than 12 ft).

Email: buffalopound@gov.sk.ca Duck Mountain Provincial Park A stunning park located on the SaskatchewanManitoba border. At the lowest tip of the boreal forest, this park showcases a diverse landscape from forests to wetlands and into rolling hills.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife including moose, white-tailed deer, black bears, birds, and more.

How to get there: 3 hours, 37 minutes east on Highway 10 from Regina, near Kamsack Get started by checking out Madge Lake Retreats, which includes modern cabins and townhouses and camp-easy yurts so you can be comfortable when you’re not checking out the outdoors.

Madge Lake Retreat is open year-round. Snowmobile rentals are available from Madge Lake Retreat.

Laser tag in the snow maze or kick sledding is a great way to experience the park with rentals available from Prairie Rentals. Campfires and a manmade snow maze are just a call away.

Madge Lake Retreat: https://madgelake.info/or call: 306-542-3922 Prairie Rentals: http://www.prairie-rentals.com/ or call: 306-737-1488

Photo credit: Government of Sask

Photo credit: Drew Harder

Sleep, eat, and explore the park all year round by booking in for a weekend (or longer) in the two

Ice fishing for pike, walleye and perch on Madge Lake is naturally a popular activity, as is the opportunity to hike through the woods after renting

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some snowshoes from the lodge. You can also find groomed snowmobile trails in the area and can rent a snow machine to head out on a tour. And don’t forget to take a crack at the always-funs snow maze or hop on a fat bike and check out the many trails in the area! www.tourismsaskatchewan.com Reesor Ranch Reesor Ranch in the Cypress Hills offers a rustic experience for those looking for a different kind of vacation.

How to get there: 3 hours, 50 minutes west on Trans Canada Highway, in Cypress Hills Provincial Park Steeped rich in history, the Reesor Ranch has been an ongoing active ranch for over 113 years and six generations. Preserving the family ranch and legacy while hosting guests year-round, the ranch is a must-see-to-believe experience. Humbly nestled near the Cypress Hills Provincial Park, the ranch reconnects us to the earth and our southern country roots.

Photo credit: Reesor Ranch

Offering “Cowboy comfort with history and hospitality”, Saskatchewan’s first provincially designated heritage ranch and operated for decades by the Reesor family, the ranch features beautiful lodging facilities in their cozy rental cabins or in their historic ranchhouse, complete with delicious meals served up by the Ranch Hall Grill.

Weather permitting, feel the joy of a horseback ride in the snow, or release your inner child on an ATV tour, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, or tobogganing. Whatever you decide, this ranch is a prairie oasis of fun and adventure.

ATV Tours are wildly popular in the winter months, with visitors able to check out all the beautiful scenery the Cypress Hills have to offer.

Stop by in the summer months, and horseback riding will get your Yellowstone fix taken care of.

Adventure packages are also available, including the two-night Cowboy Comfort Romance Package all year round. www.reesorranch.com Lodgings like The Old Log Barn, Log Cabin, Cowboy’s Cabin, Bunkhouse, and more are available

year-round. The Ranch Hall Grill will prepare you a feast or for a more intimate dining experience you can take it to your room. If you are feeling creative and want to cook for yourself, you can take away ingredients to prepare in your lodging.

For a family country getaway, a themed wedding, or a corporate retreat, this ranch can handle it all.

Experience winter ranch-style in all its splendor!

Gather your loved ones and head off for a quiet adventure at the Reesor Ranch. https://www.reesorranch.com/ or call 306-6623498 Cypress Hills Provincial Park The park is located in the southern portion of the province on the Alberta-Saskatchewan border.

Cypress Hills are 600 meters above the prairie, the plateau supports grasslands while the steep northfacing escarpment is forested by lodgepole pine, white spruce, and aspen. The network of trails can be accessed by foot or cross-country skiing and will keep you in awe of the gorgeous landscape.

How to get there: 3 hours, 50 minutes west on Trans Canada Highway, near Medicine Hat Head to the Centre Block of the park and you’ll find all sorts of amenities to get your winter adventure started, including a full-service lodge that includes a dry sauna and hot tub, both new additions for 2023.

There are usually special meals and fun events held at the onsite restaurant for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Call ahead or visit the website for more information and reservations.

Photo credit: Sask Parks

Once outdoors, you’ll find a wilderness wonderland filled with towering hills and a lush forest, with cross-country skiing and hiking trails throughout. Winter camping is also available, as is pretty much every amenity if you’re into a glamping experience.

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The Resort has ski and snowshoe rental but be sure to bring the rest of the gear you will need to have a day of fun and entertainment. The Resort offers unique accommodations such as cabins with outdoor fire pits and townhouses with gas fireplaces.

You can cross-country ski, ice skate, snowshoe, toboggan, ice fish, fat bike, hike, and snowmobile in the area.

Park interpreters offer a range of snowshoe hikes on Saturdays - four different variations of snowshoe hikes— “If These Hills Could Talk” (History), “The Abominable Walk” (Ice Age), “Bird Detective” (Seek and Find, birds and bird adaptations), “Frosted Forest Hike” (The forest in winter) (Saturdays at 2 p.m.), and if you head out at night you can experience one of the largest Dark Sky Preserves in the world, perfect for stargazing on a crisp evening.

It’s a special place to spend some time this winter, the Resort, along with the area of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, gives opportunities for guests to explore this lovely area. https://www.tourismsaskatchewan.com/provincialpark/3033/cypress-hills-interprovincialpark#sort=relevancy

exercise on their cross-country ski trails.

Located on the outskirts of Nipawin, the resort also has all the amenities of a regular community, and if you want to get in some downhill skiing, Northern Greens visitors get a 20 per cent discount at Wapiti Ski Valley, located 30 minutes away. www.northerngreens.sk.ca Waskesiu Town and Lake in Prince Albert National Park Waskesiu and Prince Albert National Park are accessible by Highways 2 and 264 approximately 90km north of Prince Albert with a scenic route on Highway 263, all of which are paved, year-round roads.

Northern Greens Resort-Nipawin Located just two and a half hours from Saskatoon or three and a half hours from Regina, this fourseason resort is within reach of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, ice fishing, curling, downhill skiing, and snowboarding.

Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan

Photo credit: Northern Greens Resort

How to get there: 4 hours, 25 minutes north on CanAm Highway and Highway 6, in Nipawin.

If staying in a beautiful modern resort during your outdoor vacation is more your thing, Northern Greens Resort has you covered.

The centrepiece of the park is the Northern Greens Resort Hotel, offering executive-class accommodations across their 43 rooms in a facility built in 2001. The hotel features all the modern amenities, including conference rooms and a fitness centre.

Step outside, hop on a snow machine and head out on the Trans Canada Snowmobile Trail or get some

This park covers 3,874 square km with breathtaking frozen landscapes from lakes to rivers and the majestic boreal forest. There are endless outdoor opportunities in the Park, with 120 kilometers of trails to explore on snowshoes or cross-country skis, and Waskesiu Lake, which offers ice fishing opportunities. The small town of Waskesiu is the hub of the park having hotels and resorts, this is a great place to get away and spend a quiet Christmas or New Year’s Eve with the ones you love.

Accommodations are plentiful. For a variety of options Waskesiu offers: The Hawood Inn(https:// hawood.com/), Lost Creek Resort (https://www. lostcreekresort.com/), Elk Ridge on the Lake (https://www.elkridgeresort.com/), Kapasiwin Bungalows (https://www.kapasiwin.com/), The Suites at Waskesiu (https://www.thesuitesatwaskesiu.com/) and Cedar Village (https://www.waskesiuresorts. ca/).

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Sundogs Excursions (https://www.sundogs.sk.ca/ Sundogs_Excursions/Home.html) offers guided adventures like dog sledding, snowshoe wanders, and puppy camps for families with young children.

Contact the Visitor Centre at 306-663-4522 or email panp.info@pc.gc.ca if you require information regarding routes to backcountry trailheads and canoe launching points on the western or northern boundaries.

Email: info@waskesiu.org for any Waskesiu inquiries.

things to do in the winter. A skating trail through the park offers beautiful views of the area, and a vast array of cross-country skiing and hiking trails are also available for anyone looking to get plenty of exercise. There’s even a rustic curling sheet and crokicurl rink available for those looking to stick closer to the resort.

That’s not even touching on the wide range of activities that can be found throughout the year both in and around the resort itself, so be sure to check out all they have to offer!

The resort offers free equipment, so do not worry if you want to participate, you can. Add curling, dog sledding, ice fishing, winter walks, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling to the list of activities you will certainly enjoy.

Photo credit: Elk Ridge

Website: https://www.waskesiu.org/ Plan your visit to The Prince Albert National Park at: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/sk/princealbert/ visit For accommodations please check out: https:// www.waskesiuresorts.ca/ Elk Ridge Resort If you would like to experience a great resort but not stay within Prince Albert National Park, Elk Ridge Resort is the perfect place to be for the holiday season or for a winter retreat.

How to get there: 4 hours, 22 minutes north on Highway 2, 50 minutes north of Prince Albert Considered Saskatchewan’s premier destination resort, Elk Ridge offers just about anything you could want in your winter adventures.

The beautiful Elk Ridge Lodge is the centrepiece of the resort and features a wide range of first-class accommodations and amenities, including an indoor pool complete with waterslide and two exceptional restaurants on-site. Visitors can also rent cabins, cottages and townhouses, all with immediate access to the wilderness area.

While the resort is most famous for the worldclass Waskesiu Golf Course, there is no shortage of

Photo credit: Greg Huszar

For reservations: reservations@elkridgeresort.com Echo Valley Provincial Park How to get there: 52 minutes east on Highway 10 from Regina, near Fort Qu’Appelle.

A paradise for ice fishing with Echo Lake and Pasqua Lake nearby, there are also many activities to take part in when you’re not on the lake.

One of the highlights is an ice-skating trail that winds throughout the park, with families easily able to spend a day touring around the beautiful scenery before warming up in the lodge. There’s also a Snowshoe Safari on Saturday afternoons and the Illuminated Snowshoe Stroll that features a lighted trail leading to a scenic point perfect for looking at the stars.

And for the more adventurous types, check out the Ninja Warrior course, featuring a slackline, zipline and an obstacle course, all made even more challenging in the winter months! www.tourismsaskatchewan.com Ski in Saskatchewan Mission Ridge Ski Hill by Yorkton

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https://www.missionridge.ca/ Located in the town of Fort Qu’Appelle and nestled in the beautiful Qu’Appelle Valley, Mission Ridge Winter Park is Southern Saskatchewan’s premier Skiing, Snowboarding, and Snow-Tubing resort.

Passes to the park can be purchased at https:// www.missionridge.ca/day-passes/ Local: 306-332-5479 Toll-Free: 1-800-550-6857 Email: daylodge@missionridge.ca Local accommodations include: Braeburn Inn 750 Bay Avenue South in Fort Qu’Appelle for bookings https://book.webrez.com/ v31/#/property/2472/location/0/search Freshe View is located at 807 Sioux Avenue South in Fort Qu’Appelle for more information email: info@freshevue.ca Hillcrest Motel and Outfitters located just north of Fort Qu’Appelle at the junction of highways 56 & 35 call:306-332-5634 Valley Cabin Rentals: https://www.valleycabinrentals.com/ B-Say-Tah Point Bed and Breakfast: https://bsaytahpointbandb.com/ Katepwa Beach Hotel: https://www.katepwahotel. com/

Box 1673 Kamsack, SK – S0A 1S0 Local accommodations include: Madge Lake Developments: https://madgelake. info/cabins/ or call: 306-542-3922 Duck Mountain Motel: https://www.duckmountainmotel.com/ or call: (306)542-2656 Table Mountain Table Mountain is located 16km west of Battleford or 29km east of Cut Knife on Highway 40, then 9.5km north and west on the grid road. Table Mountain can also be reached by turning off Highway 16 at Delmas and traveling 14.5km south.

Table Mountain Regional Park has something for every level of skier & rider. The 45 acres offer a wide variety of terrain from well-groomed runs, to a challenging mogul run or the ever-popular terrain park. With the state-of-the-art snowmaking system, Table Mountain is able to provide excellent conditions from early December to the end of March.

Photo credit: Table Mountain

Photo credit: Tourism Saskatchewan

Duck Mountain Ski area https://skitheduck.com/ 22 runs from easy to expert on skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing, The Duck is a great place for families and groups to gather and enjoy this great country.

Have some fun at the Tube Park or on the freestyle runs. With affordable rates, this makes a great destination for the whole family to enjoy this winter season.

Email: skitheduck@gmail.com Call: 306-542-411 Duck Mountain Ski Resort

Night skiing/boarding is Fridays from 6:30 pm 9:30 pm. Rentals are open from 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm. Riding will be canceled if the temperature gets below –20 degrees Celsius. Always check before driving out: https://www.facebook.com/TableMtn Website:https://www.tablemountain.ca/ General Inquiries: admin@tablemountain.ca Snow School/Lessons: admin@tablemountain.ca Table Mountain Ski Club: https://www.tablemountainskiclub.ca/ Riders Snowboard Program: https://sasksnowboard.ca/clubs/riders-snowboard-clubs/ Flatland FreeStylers: https://freestylesaskatchewan.ski/

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Assiniboia – a vibrant community Located 105 km south of Moose Jaw on SK-2 S, Assiniboia was originally a traditional meeting place.

With CP rail and 22 lots sold, the community began in 1912 and has since continued to be the south central Saskatchewan trade and meeting place.

The community continues the tradition through its community events. So join them this season at: Halloween Party, October 29 Lights of Love, November 15 Light up the trees in Centennial Park with a $10 donation in memory of a loved one. A small ceremony will held prior to the lighting of the trees.

Photo: Assiniboine Park & Zoo Facebook page

Twinkle Lane: $50/site Come decorate a campsite with friends, family, or coworkers. The display will be from Dec11th - Jan 5th

Twinkle Tour, December 13 Kids shopping event, December 20 Weekly activities include: Climbing walls and walking track @ Teen Centre Monday: Pickleball 7:15 pm @ Prince of Wales free Tuesday: Gentle Yoga 55+ 10:30-11:15 @ Stride Studio - $5.00 Youth Fitness ages 4-8 4 pm @ Multi-Room - $5.00 Family Badminton 7 pm @ Prince of Wales - Free Adult Fitness Class 7 pm @ Multi-Room - $5.00

Wednesday: Pickleball 10 am @ Prince of Wales - free Thursday: Adult Basketball 7 pm @ 7th Ave school - free Country Heat Fitness 7 pm @ Multi-Room - $5.00

Sunday: Adult Volleyball @7 pm @ Archs - Free For more information: https://www.assiniboia.net/ 58 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

Winter fun in Gravelbourg Gravelbourg is steeped in history and innovation.

Multi-cultural from the beginning, Gravelbourg has retained its heritage through education, architecture, and community.

Located 117km SouthWest of Moose Jaw down Highway 2 to 43 or south from Chaplin on the 58, take a tour around town or stop in to visit at one of the town’s events.

Gravelbourg: Saturday, November 4 Gravelbourg Artisan Co-op MUMA (Meet Up Make Art) Art House, 212 5th Ave Let’s Meet up and Make Art! MUMA! Explore your creative side, learn a new craft or technique, or just hang out in a friendly, welcoming space. Art is for everyone!

November Project: Refurbished Picture Frames All supplies included. Ages 14+. Suggested donation $10.

Visit the GAC Facebook page for updates!

November 17-18 Bon Ami Garage Sale and Trade Show IPI - 405 1st Avenue East Friday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Bag Sale Day!

Saturday, November 18 Styles for Home Garden & Living Customer Appreciation Day 300 Main St 10 am – 9 PM TBC 20% off everything in store, free refreshments Saturday, November 25 Gravelbourg Artisan Co-operative Happy Handmade Christmas Market

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Ecole Mathieu Auditorium, 306 1st Ave E Over 20 artisans from all over southwest Saskatchewan. Crafts, Christmas baking, original artwork, and more! Featured Artist: Beth Stobbs. Musical Guest: Daniel Sutherland Visit the Gravelbourg Artisan Co-op Facebook page for details and updates.

Saturday, December 2 Santa Day @Renaissance Gaiety Theatre (Sponsored by the Gravelbourg Lions) TBC. Photos with Santa, kids’ activities Other possible town events: Parade/Twinkle Tour, Free Public Skating at the Palestre Rink, sleigh rides Contact the town office for more information at 306-648-3301

Saturday, December 9 St Joseph’s Hospital Foundation Fundraiser Gala Details: TBC Ecole Mathieu Auditorium, 306 1st Ave E

Saturday, December 9 Gravelbourg Gift Fair Paris Hall, 114 1st Ave W Mixed trade and craft fair with canteen.

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A little somethin’-somethin’ special to sip on during a cold winter’s eve

BAH RUMBUG! CELEBRATE THE SEASON AND THE CHRISTMAS CAROL WITH THIS SWEET & CREAMY SALTED CARAMEL EGGNOG! “This is a Christmas themed Literary Libation thanks to Bah Rumbug! Celebrate the season and The Christmas Carol with this Salted Caramel Eggnog Recipe.

“It’s the perfect drink to make on a cold night for watching a holiday movie – like one of the many versions of The Christmas Carol. Plus, you can make a large pitcher for a party so people can pour their own and add toppings. You will surprise everyone with how tasty eggnog can really be!”

Bah Rumbug! - Salted Caramel Egg Nog Recipe Ingredients 2 oz Daily’s Salted Caramel 3 oz Eggnog 1 oz spiced rum 1 tsp nutmeg Whipped Topping and caramel topping to taste Instructions Add Daily’s Salted Caramel, eggnog, spiced rum, and nutmeg together.

Top with whipped cream and a yummy drizzle of caramel. https://thelovenerds.com/bah-rumbug-salted-caramel-eggnog-recipe/

Kosher salt 2 large eggs 1/4 cup sugar Brandy or rum, for flavoring (optional) Grated nutmeg, to garnish In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 1/2 cups of the milk with the cinnamon, vanilla bean, cloves, peppercorns, ginger, cardamom pods and a hefty pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then turn off the heat and let it stand for 15 minutes.

Strain the mixture through a sieve, discarding all of the solids except for the vanilla bean. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean into the milk; discard the vanilla pod.

Wipe out the saucepan and return the milk to the pan over medium heat.

Meanwhile, in a medium bowl beat the eggs with the sugar for 2 minutes, or until they are light and lemon colored. Add the heated milk in a stream, whisking gently. Return the egg-milk mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until it thickens and coats the back of the spoon, about 4 to 6 minutes. Do not let the mixture come to a simmer or the eggs will scramble.

Quickly add the remaining 1/2 cup of milk to the pan to stop the cooking. Transfer the mixture to a pitcher and chill for at least 2 hours or until very cold.

Chai Eggnog 2 cups 2-percent milk, divided 3 1/2-inch stick cinnamon, smashed using the side of a knife 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise 10 whole cloves 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns, coarsely crushed 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 4 cardamom pods, crushed (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom) 61 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com

To serve, divide the eggnog among 4 chilled glasses, stir in a dash of brandy or rum, if desired, and top with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.

Christmas Sangria 1 750-milliliter bottle fruity red wine 1/2 cup fresh clementine or orange juice 1/2 cup unsweetened pomegranate juice 1/2 cup Grand Marnier liqueur 1 firm pear with the skin, cored and cut into 1/2inch cubes (about 2 cups) 2 clementines or 1 orange, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise Seeds from 1 pomegranate 2 tablespoons superfine sugar In a large bowl combine all ingredients and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Chill, tightly covered, at least 8 hours before serving. https://sentinelcolorado.com/colorado-table/ mixology-a-couple-of-light-libations-to-set-theholiday-mood/

as close to enjoying the mix as possible so the bubbles don’t go flat!

Most white wines work well for sangria; however, you do not want to use an oaked wine.

Holiday fruit can include citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges, stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, cherries, and plums, pome fruits like apples and pears, tropical fruit like pineapple and mango, and berries.

If you’re adding anything with bubbles, such as club soda, it is best to add right before serving to maintain the fizz it gives. This is the same for sparkling wine.

Ingredients 1 bottle white wine, (I normally use pinot grigio) 1 bottle Riondo Prosecco 1.5 cup apple cider 1 pear, (chopped) 1 red apple, (chopped) 1 green apple, (chopped) 1 cup cranberries 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds Instructions Add all ingredients except the Prosecco to the pitcher and allow fruit to soak for at least a few hours.

When ready to serve, add in the Prosecco and enjoy! https://thelovenerds.com/white-christmas-sangria-recipe/

White Christmas Sangria Here is a recipe for White Christmas Sangria, filled with tasty red and green fruit for a festive holiday cocktail! Just fill up the sangria pitcher with red and green apples, pears, cranberries and pomegranates, and some white wine and Prosecco, too, of course! Lightly sweet and tangy fruit makes for a Christmas Sangria Recipe your guests will love!

For champagne cocktail recipes or in this case Prosecco cocktail recipes, add the sparkling ingredient

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Stay safe with winter driving tips from the Combined Traffic Services Unit

Const. Ryan Lundquist shares a few tips to help keep you safe on the road this winter To help stay safe on the roads this winter, Const.

Ryan Lundquist with the Combined Traffic Services of Saskatchewan (CTSS) Unit has provided a few winter driving tips.

Const. Lundquist said one of the biggest factors with winter driving is speed. “Basically, in two words, slow down,” he said.

The posted speed limit is for ideal driving conditions and needs to be lowered when conditions deteriorate.

“Slowing down, giving yourself more time, and giving yourself more space are probably the… three biggest things you can do to keep yourself safe in the winter,” he said.

City driving “In adverse weather conditions, you want to double your following distance to at least six seconds,” Const. Lundquist said.

This extra room allows more time to react, and the key is to remain calm to make better decisions.

“You want to decelerate and brake gradually. If your vehicle does start skidding, you want to remain calm and just take your foot off the accelerator and brake steadily. Steer where you want to go,” he advised.

It’s important to avoid locking the brakes so your wheels continue to turn.

“If you lock up and start skidding, you’re not going to be able to steer; you’re just going to go straight or whatever direction you were going when that happened.”

Intersections are frequently icy, and this is caused by melt and thaw cycles, freezing rain, and motorists spinning their tires. Ice buildup is also caused by drivers locking up their brakes and sliding.

Vehicles that slide through intersections can generally blame excessive speed for the road conditions.

“If you can’t stop safely in time for that red light… then you’re driving too fast for road conditions,” Const. Lundquist said.

Make sure headlights, taillights, and license plates are visible. Driving a vehicle with an obstructed view of the road can land you with a ticket.

Highway driving Always check road conditions before starting your trip. Non-essential travel should be postponed until the roads are in good shape. When you do head

out, ensure the gas tank is full.

The Highway Hotline can be found at hotline.gov. sk.ca.

If visibility deteriorates, never stop in a drive lane.

Find a grid road and pull over off the highway until conditions improve.

When safe, you can test road conditions periodically by slowing down and applying brakes to get a feel for the road.

“Drive where you’re comfortable at,” Const. Lundquist said. “If that means you’re going 20 km under the speed limit, then that is what it is. The thing to do is make sure you’re keeping yourself safe and in control as much as possible.”

It’s fine to match the speed of other traffic, but if you’re the sole vehicle travelling slower than others around you, it’s best to turn on your hazard lights.

If you get stranded, always stay inside your vehicle.

“People wouldn’t believe how many calls the RCMP and CTSS members deal with where people have left their vehicle because they are so close to home… and they think they can (make it), (or) it’s less than a mile to get to their house, and then they (go) missing and end up not making it,” said Const. Lundquist.

The only time it’s advisable to step out is to periodically confirm your exhaust pipe is clear so carbon monoxide doesn’t build up in the vehicle.

Winter kits Const. Lundquist said the impact of driving with winter tires is significant.

“We run winter tires on all our police vehicles.

There’s a significant difference in rubber with a winter tire; it’s softer, so it provides better traction… on winter roads in general,” he explained.

There’s no provincial law currently requiring motorists use winter tires, but they are still advisable.

Each vehicle you drive should also have a winter preparedness kit.

Const. Lundquist advises some useful tools like a shovel, snow brush with an ice scraper, flashlight with spare batteries, flares, and booster cables.

To stay warm, you need warm blankets and extra clothing. You can also bring candles.

In case emergency crews are delayed, spare food, water, and a First Aid kit are important.

Additional winter driving tips can be found online at sgi.sk.ca/handbook.

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• Flatdeck & Enclosed Trailers • Light Industrial Equipment • Bale Handling Equipment • PTO Generators • Mulchers & Brush Mowers • Stump Grinders & Tree Spades • Log Splitters and Shredders • Skidsteer Attachments • Excavator Attachments • 3 Point Attachments • Landscaping Equipment • Farm Equipment • Shocker Hitch (Air Ride Towing Hitches) 64 2023 ExploreMooseJaw.com