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The Hope Collective: New podcast looking to explore the province’s mental health resources Larissa Kurz

Dennarah Martin-Wilk is hoping to offer a whole new way to hear about mental health resources available in Saskatchewan with the launch of a new informational podcast called The Hope Collective. Martin-Wilk will host the biweekly audio podcast and its affiliated blog, where she will feature interviews and information about mental health-related resources, supports and programs available across the province. “The Hope Collective is a podcast and blog, centering specifically on mental health and wellness resources [that] we want to just really get out there, so people have more understanding about what they have available to them,” said Martin-Wilk. The idea for The Hope Collective came from Martin-Wilk’s experience working as a volunteer with local mental health initiatives, as well as her personal interest as a second-year psychology student. After volunteering with the Moose Jaw branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Martin-Wilk was introduced to the local non-profit advocacy organization Journey to Hope Moose Jaw, where she pitched the idea of teaching people about the mental health help available in their area. A recent survey from Journey to Hope is what really supported the pitch, said Martin-Wilk, as it asked a selection of residents if they were aware of the mental health resources in their area and where they would go if they were in need of help. “The results were astonishing. There’s really not a lot of knowledge out there,” said Martin-Wilk. “And I mean, the struggle is universal and we can see that things need to be out there, people need somewhere to go, and they need the right information for that.” The idea is to talk in detail about the many resources available in the province and how they work, said Martin-Wilk, to hopefully shed some light — and hope — on what’s available to people seeking help with their

Dennarah Martin-Wilk, creator and host of a new upcoming podcast from Journey to Hope called The Hope Collective, is hoping to spread the word about the mental health supports available in Saskatchewan. (supplied) mental health. “I want people to know that there are options. There is hope. There are people you can reach out to, and there are programs and so many things you can do,” said Martin-Wilk. “We just want everybody to have access to that.” The podcast is based in Moose Jaw, so Martin-Wilk is planning to begin by looking at the local resources in the city before expanding to feature resources located across Saskatchewan. Confirmed topics on The Hope Collective’s future schedule include an in-depth chat with the CMHA about its many programs and an interview with one of the Moose Jaw Police Service’s Police and Crisis Teams, an initiative here in Moose Jaw that pairs a counsellor with a police officer to respond to mental-health-related service calls. Martin-Wilk is also working to organize

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episodes about the University of Regina’s free Online Therapy Unit, as well as a spotlight on programs available at the Wakamow Detox Centre here in Moose Jaw, the CMHA’s Hope Learning Centre in Regina and even the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan, to name a few. “We will also be planning some special episodes to shake things up, where we’ll be kind of onsite to do our interviews,” said Martin-Wilk. The Hope Collective is similar to another initiative from Journey to Hope called Voices of Hope, a video interview series organized and hosted by Nicole Hebert that shares people’s stories about their experiences with mental health. For Martin-Wilk, she feels the two projects are complementary — one inspirational, the other informational. “We really want to differentiate between the two, because they’re both so important,” said Martin-Wilk. “Voices of Hope is the ‘who’, and [The Hope Collective] is the ‘how’.” Martin-Wilk is more than ready to get started, with three episodes already lined up and ready to release in February. The first episode of The Hope Collective will be introductory, but the following two shows will dive right into the topic at hand with guest interviews. As for the future: the sky is the limit, said Martin-Wilk, as she plans to continue producing episodes of The Hope Collective so long as there are mental health initiatives in Saskatchewan to highlight. The Hope Collective podcast will be available wherever people download their other favourite podcasts, including Apple and Spotify. The Hope Collective also has a Facebook page and Instagram account, with a website coming soon that will feature the podcast’s partner blog, episodes of Voices of Hope and Journey to Hope’s recurring Hope Summit event series.

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50 years of theatre: Peacock debuting milestone show online with performance of “Mary Poppins” Larissa Kurz

For the 50th anniversary show from the Peacock Collegiate musical theatre program, students are excited to present the classic stage musical Mary Poppins, but with a new twist on opening weekend. Due to the ongoing public health restrictions, this year’s show will be debuting online by video, which means audiences will be tuning in from home rather than from their seats in the Centennial Theatre to watch a filmed performance. “We thought that [Mary Poppins] fit our cast,” said musical director Cameron Church. “We felt it really matched the people we thought would be around to do the show and that it would be a great way to celebrate 50 years of musicals.” Mary Poppins premiered on Feb. 12, returning for repeat performance on Feb. 15 and finishing with a final show on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. Tickets — or rather, direct links to the online stream — to the show are entirely free this year, in celebration of the program’s 50th anniversary. Church was joined by director Ray Deans, choreographer Jennifer Temple and producer Dustin Swanson to make the show happen this year, as the filming process presented a whole new experience for the

The cast of Peacock Collegiate’s annual show had many public safety guidelines to follow onstage when preparing their performance of beloved classic, Mary Poppins. (supplied) theatre program. This is the first time the Peacock theatre program has delivered its show in this way, and it's just one of the many changes the cast has had to make while preparing the annual show. Students have been hard at work throughout the fall, said Church, taking extra care to adhere to the public health restrictions

in order to keep the production process as safe as possible. All of their preparations and rehearsal took place during in-class hours rather than as an after-school program, or even at home. Limits on how many people can be on stage, mandatory mask requirements and a crash course in filming live theatre also offered some big challenges. “None of us have ever made a movie before [but] we have done lots of musicals,” said Church. The show was filmed scene by scene, said Church, and cast members even pre-recorded the vocals for their musical numbers this year, to minimize the risks of performing onstage — which he felt was an interesting experience that may make its way into future years of the program. Overall, it was an interesting process to make the switch from live theatre to filmed theatre, said Church, but there were a few benefits to the new format. “In many regards, it's actually very similar [to a live show]. The students are on stage and they’re in a nice wide shot like you would see sitting in the auditorium, but the opportunity with more cameras and being able to zoom in is that now you get to really see the expression on the kids’ faces, in the eyes,” said Church. “And that’s the life of the character, is in

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Adjusting to the process of filming a live performance was a big challenge for the students, but one they were happy to take on in order to put on the annual show. (supplied) the eyes, when you see that sparkle of joy moment or the pain and frustration or sadness, whatever the emotion is — now, you can see that nice and close.” Despite the unusual process this year, Church said the cast is very excited to be able to put on a show — especially for the 50th anniversary of the program. “It's really important for these kids who identify as artists [to be able to] release some of their creative energies, and so we wanted to do something,” said Church. “This was a pretty monster idea, a huge task, and we’re so thankful for our music parents and administrators who were so supportive and helped us navigate those problems.” To watch the upcoming showing of Peacock’s Mary Poppins, audiences need to head online to ShowTix4U.com, select their preferred show date in advance and submit a ticket request to receive the show’s streaming link.

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Moose Jaw realtor Wally Meili honoured for 50 years with Sask. Realtors Association Larissa Kurz

In a small ceremony at the Grant Hall Hotel on Feb. 8, the Saskatchewan Realtors Association presented local real estate agent Wally Meili with an award commemorating his 50 years as a member of the organization. “It’s quite an honour. They’re great people to work with, the Association and the other realtors, and they’re dedicated to helping their clients,” said Meili, about the recognition. “It’s a good thing to be part of. I’ve always enjoyed it.” Presented by Gord Archibald, interim CEO of the Sask. Realtors Association, the commemorative award is an accomplishment that very few realtors in the province have received. “I would say probably less than a handful [of realtors] have ever achieved 50 years as a member of the Association, so it’s quite an accomplishment,” said Archibald. “Being a realtor is not an easy thing. You have to have a lot of loyalty and perseverance to be able to work through the ups and downs that occur, and I’m sure that [Wally] has seen a few of those bumps over the years.” Meili, who is currently an agent with Royal LePage Landmart, first began his career as a realtor in 1970. Meili has since worked as both a real estate agent and broker, while also raising a family and operating a third-generation farm in the Gravelbourg and Assiniboia area.

Gord Archibald (L), interim CEO of the Saskatchewan Realtors Association, presenting local realtor Wally Meili (R) with an award recognizing him for 50 years as a member of the organization. (photo by Larissa Kurz) Over the last several decades, he has served the Moose Jaw area with expertise, handling all types of listings including commercial, residential and farmland properties. He also held the positions of director and president of the Moose Jaw Real Estate Board, which disbanded in 2015 after more than 50 years of operation. For Meili, the highlight of the last 50 years as a realtor is seeing the trust his clients have put in him to help with such a

big life decision. “It’s really an honour, that people give you the trust to handle one of the biggest things that will happen in their lives,” said Meili. “It’s always a joy, running into people years after you’ve looked after them, and they come up and hello and thank you again.” Meili has seen plenty of changes in the industry over the years — the most notable of which, he admitted, is the increase in the paperwork now required with each

sale — and even in the past year, with the pandemic affecting how realtors do business. “It’s difficult, but it’s actually been extremely busy,” said Meili, about the past year. “Certainly there are challenges in treating the wishes of the people in their houses, to keep them as safe [from] COVID as we can.” Meili agreed that celebrating 50 years as a realtor with the Sask. Realtors Association is an exciting moment, and he is not looking at retirement on the horizon just yet — he’s planning to continue working alongside his colleagues for a while yet. “We’re very blessed in our operation. We have very good support staff, [so kudos] to them, they deserve it,” said Meili. “I’m really honoured by this presentation and appreciate the Association giving it to me. It’s a lovely gift. We’ll find a spot of honour on a wall for it.” Meili also expressed his thanks to his wife Lea and his family, for their continued patience and understanding over the years as his realty career often calls for sometimes unusual and extended working hours. Meili’s milestone accomplishment will also be celebrated by the Sask. Realtors Association during their upcoming Annual General Meeting in March, which will be held virtually over Zoom.

Intimate Partner Violence Moose Jaw’s Partners against Violence Committee brings together a number of local service agencies, as well as local RCMP and Moose Jaw Police to work towards building a safer community for all. Intimate Partner Violence (also known as domestic violence) refers to behaviour by an intimate partner or ex-partner that causes physical, sexual or psychological harm, including physical aggression, sexual coercion, psychological abuse and controlling behaviours. (World Health Organization, 2014. Violence against women fact sheet) Both women and men can be the victims of Intimate Partner Violence and it can occur in opposite-sex or same-sex partners. It involves the dynamic of power, dominance and control from the abuser to the victim. Types of Violence: 1) Physical – Examples of physical violence includes being hit, pushed, kicked, choked, slapped or being hit with an object. 2) Emotional – Examples of emotional abuse includes threats to harm victim, children or self. It can also include intimidating behaviour such as punching walls or breaking items or isolating the victim from friends and family. 3) Verbal – Examples of verbal abuse includes calling the victim names. 4) Sexual – Examples of sexual violence include forcing victim to engage in unwanted sexual activity.

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5) Financial – An example of financial violence includes withholding money from the victim. 6) Religious – An example of religious violence includes ridiculing victim for their religious beliefs. Individuals who engage in domestic violence can benefit from programming that teaches them how not to be abusive and controlling in their interpersonal relationships.

You choose to abuse, and you can choose NOT to abuse. Submitted by: The Moose Jaw Partners Against Violence Committee

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Phone: 306.694.1322 Fax: 888.241.5291 32 Manitoba St. West, Moose Jaw SK S6H 1P7 www.mjvexpress.com

Publisher: Robert Ritchie - rob@mjvexpress.com Editor: Joan Ritchie - editor@mjvexpress.com Sales: Wanda Hallborg - sales@mjvexpress.com Bob Calvert - sales@mjvexpress.com Gladys Baigent-Therens - Sales2@mjvexpress.com Steve Seida - Special Sales Thank you to all the contributing writers, without your time and support, the paper would not look the same. Send your stories, events and pictures to; Joan Ritchie Ron Walter Joyce Walter

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Jason Antonio Larissa Kurz

Randy Palmer Dr. Steven Heidinger Wanda Smith

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss

What stories the universe tells! One thing I love to do when we are sitting on the patio under the starlit skies, especially in our place of choice for holidays nearer the equator, I love to gaze into the heavens and think about the Joan Ritchie ages that have passed on beforeEDITOR hand that have gazed on the exact same formations that we see today. Even in the months up here in the frozen north where the aurora borealis aka northern lights can be seen, it is breathtaking to sit around a campfire in northerly regions and behold the magnificent patterns and colours as they swirl around revealing the living vibrancy of the skies and the stories they have to tell. No wonder Saskatchewan is known as the ‘Land of the Living Skies.’ Since the beginning of the ages, humans have looked to the heavens for signs. It’s still engrained in our culture through legends and stories in almost every demographic in the world. At the end of the day, they used the night skies to relay life lessons they learnt to pass onto future generations. Cultures throughout the generations all over the world created their own constellations to tell the stories that were important to them. They studied the skies as a took for navigation. The heavens also reveal planting times according to the phases of the moon, changes in the weather and many other mysteries that still have to be uncovered. It is an exhaustible source of knowledge used to understand the atmosphere, and also the earth in which we live. As well as learning about the heavens, the love of experiencing the world and cultures firsthand is a desire for many that is discouraged at this time. Kudos to Holy Trinity Catholic School Board for encouraging travel and learning about other cultures through reading books. What a pleasant surprise to read about a contest they are holding, modified through the annual provincial activity created around Family Literacy Day. The Battle of the Books contest focuses on the theme, “Let’s Travel the World Together.” Even tho’ the students may be unable to explore new worlds at this time, they are able to go on great adventures by getting lost in a book. What a great way to escape the winter blahs! So, whether you are young or old, seize the cold days of winter and pandemic lockdown to learn more about your topic of interest through books. Our local library is a great resource, too, still working hard to offer all aspects of society opportunities to learn and be engaged in the here and now. To register for any of the programs coming up at the Moose Jaw Public Library, you can contact them by calling 1 (306) 692-2787, reaching out via message on Facebook, using the chat feature on moosejawlibrary.ca or by emailing ask@moosejawlibrary.ca. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication. Send your letters to the editor to: letters@mjvexpress.com or 888-241-5291 All columns, letters to the editor and editorials are solely the personal opinions of the writers themselves and not necessarily the opinions of The Moose Jaw Express. The contents of this publication are the property of the 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. All ads in the Moose Jaw Express are published in good faith without verification. The Moose Jaw Express reserves the right to refuse, classify, revise or censor any ads for any reason in its sole discretion. This paper may include inaccuracies or errors. 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 damage of any nature what-so-ever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission or any other cause. All users are advised to check ad and message details carefully before entering into any agreement of any kind and before disclosing personal information. If in doubt, please take legal advice.

General population in Saskatchewan could see COVID vaccination as early as April Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The general population of Saskatchewan could start receiving a COVID-19 vaccination as early as April according to the provincial government’s Vaccination Distribution Plan released last week. That date will depend on how quickly vaccines can be distributed through Phase 1 of the plan, which focuses on high-risk populations. “Saskatchewan is working to vaccinate as many people as quickly as possible,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “The commencement of mass vaccinations will depend on the number and consistency of vaccine deliveries from the federal government. We are hopeful that mass vaccinations can start as soon as April, based on the current vaccine delivery schedule from the federal government.” Here’s how things are shaping up, past and present. The Vaccination Distribution Plan began with the Pfizer Pilot Project for healthcare workers back in mid-December. A total of 1,950 healthcare workers were immunized in Regina, with the goal of also understanding how to handle and store the Pfizer vaccine, which has to be kept in ultra-cold temperatures to remain stable. Once that plan was in place and successful - and the vaccine itself was found to be safe in initial doses - Phase 1 of the distribution plan was initiated. High-risk populations are identified as long-term care and personal care home residents and staff, priority healthcare workers, residents 70-plus in remote northern communities and residents 50-plus in remote northern communities. All told, Phase 1 covers 190,000 people in Saskatchewan, requiring 380,000 doses. As of Sunday, Feb. 7, a total of 42,987 vaccines had been administered, around 11 per cent of the total needed. This is where vaccine scarcity comes into play. The province expected to receive 124,800 doses of Pfizer and 66,500 doses of Moderna vaccine in the first quarter of 2021, but shortfalls of more than 12,600 of Pfizer and 500 Moderna are now expected. All told, continued delays will further push back the implementation of general population vaccines, but health officials remain optimistic supplies will increase as production ramps up. That brings us to Phase 2. The plan is to see priority given to age groups in 10-year increments, with that focus chosen due to COVID-19 being a greater risk in older populations. It is estimated 138,471 people will fall under the age 6069 group; 147,469 in the 50-59 group; 151,901 in the 4049 group; 183,292 in the 30-39 group and 190,043 in the 18-29 group. Each group will require two doses of their respective vaccines. Phase 2 will also include targeted vaccinations for those in select congregate living settings: • Group homes for persons with intellectual disabilities; • Emergency shelters; • People with underlying health conditions that are clinically extremely vulnerable; • Solid organ transplant recipients;

The Saskatchewan government expects mass vaccinations of the general population to begin as early as April. Getty Images • People with specific cancers; • People with severe respiratory conditions; • People with rare diseases that significantly increase the risk of infections; • People on immunosuppression therapies sufficient to significantly increase the risk of infection; • Adults with very significant developmental disabilities that increase risk; • Adults on dialysis or with chronic kidney disease. The plan also covered how vaccines will be distributed. Three categories of clinics will be available: mass immunization clinics, mobile clinics and drive-thru clinics, with the size and location of each community determining how many and what kind of each will be set up. Moose Jaw itself will receive mass immunization and drive-thru-clinics. The southern portion of the province - drawing a line from Leader in the west to Rocanville in the east - will receive a total of 53 clinics, including 28 mass immunization, three drive-through and 22 mobile clinics. Regina alone will receive 15 clinics. Those vaccinated will receive a wallet card with a record of their vaccination, and their vaccination record will be stored electronically at MySaskHealthRecord. Further details and regular updates to the Saskatchewan Immunization Delivery Plan will be available at Saskatchewan.ca/covid-19-vaccine.

Urban Highway Connector Program receives $3 million funding increase Moose Jaw Express Staff

The Urban Highway Connector Program continues to make highways around smaller communities in the province safer. And now, an additional funding boost will help things progress even further. The Government of Saskatchewan announced that an additional $3 million had been injected into the project’s coffers, bringing the total dedicated to major highway roadwork in the province to $10 million over two years. And the news is good for Moose Jaw, too: rehabilitation projects in the area have been identified as a priority in the multi-year plan, joining Prince Albert, Estevan, Meadow Lake, Lloydminster, Humboldt, North Battleford and Yorkton as communities that will see significant upgrades. It’s all part of the province’s continued target of improving more than 1,000 kilometres of provincial highways this year and upgrade 10,000 km of highways by 2031. “We committed to making the investments necessary to ensure a strong economic recovery for our province,” Premier Scott Moe said in a press release. “This funding boost will create jobs, enhance safety and support transportation infrastructure in our municipalities.” The UHCP was created in 2008 to provide stable funding and service levels on highways within city limits that connect to the provincial networks. The program provides financial assistance to urban municipalities for the

Highways around Moose Jaw could see construction work this summer under the Urban Highway Connector Program. maintenance, operation and rehabilitation of these roadways. Major work was undertaken in the 2020-21 budget year in Regina, Estevan and Yorkton, along with lighting upgrades in Lloydminster and a regional planning project in Swift Current. Since 2008, the province has invested more than $200 million into improving urban highways in Saskatchewan over and above municipal revenue sharing. During that same period, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $9.8 billion in highways infrastructure, improving more than 15,800 km of Saskatchewan highways.

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Pandemic made packing shoeboxes a ‘little different,’ organizer for Operation Christmas Child says Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

While packing shoeboxes during the 2020 Operation Christmas Child campaign was a “little different” due to the pandemic, the numbers collected were still respectable, the Moose Jaw organizer says. Moose Javians helped less fortunate children throughout the world have a joyous Christmas by packing 1,908 shoeboxes. This was part of the 20,760 boxes that Saskatchewan contributed to the campaign. Canadians as a whole packed 373,188 shoeboxes — including tens of thousands packed online — with toys, hygiene items, school supplies and other useful and fun trinkets for kids in the developing world. Worldwide, 11 countries packed 9,113,853 shoeboxes. These numbers are down slightly compared to 2019 when Moose Jaw collected 2,849 boxes, Saskatchewan produced 25,591 boxes, Canadians contributed 490,471 shoeboxes and 11 countries across the world packed 10.5 million boxes. Many residents had difficulty going shopping in-person due to the pandemic, so they filled more shoeboxes online at PackaBox.ca, said local organizer Mary Ellen Willis. While the numbers collected at Victory Church and the Moose Jaw Alliance Church were down compared to past years, the boxes received were still great. “(They were) really, really full and bulging … ,” she continued. “I had to change the location for the packing party (due to spacing restrictions), but we did over 1,000 boxes. And new people who’d never done it before came and packed boxes. As far as I’m concerned, it was really, really good.” Willis added that she made regular trips to the Dollar

ping. Furthermore, she has seniors who make headbands during the year who give them to her once finished. Participating in Operation Christmas Child is important since not only do children receive vital school supplies, it also lays the groundwork for children to follow Jesus Christ, Willis explained. “Jesus said go out and make disciples and plant the seed. And that’s what these boxes do: they plan the seed … ,” she continued. “It also opens the door so they can take The Greatest Journey, and they’re introduced to Jesus then and (how) Jesus loves you. That’s what I find is the most important part.” Receiving school supplies can also be life-changing, Willis remarked. She knows of a mother in Ecuador who rented a pencil for her child so he could go to school. When the child had no pencil, he couldn’t go to school. The generosity of millions of people worldwide helped It’s possible to pack shoeboxes year-round using the these children in Costa Rica have a merry Christmas PackaBox.ca website. While the project is mainly produring the 2020 Operation Christmas Child shoebox moted at Christmas, Willis pointed out that she has delivered shoeboxes to kids in Ecuador, Senegal and Costa campaign. Photo courtesy Samaritan’s Purse Rica in the spring and fall. “Operation Christmas Child is a very honest organizaTree to provide more boxes since customers were snap- tion. There’s nothing hidden about it,” she said. “It’s a ping them up there. good one to support.” The numbers packed in Moose Jaw during the campaign Willis added that she greatly appreciated everyone who are still something to celebrate even if there were fewer packed a box during the 2020 campaign. of them, Willis said. She hoped that residents picked up Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child has collected supplies earlier in the year since there was no certainty and delivered more than 186 million gift-filled shoeboxwhen the pandemic would end. es to children in more than 130 countries affected by For example, she noted that she purchases small trin- war, poverty, natural disaster, disease and famine. kets and school supply items whenever she goes shop-

COVID-19 precautions around household pets, livestock By Ron Walter - For Agri-Mart Express AGRIMART

EXPRESS

W h i l e C OV I D -19 infection of humans from animals is

unlikely, some species do get infected. For that reason humans should take measures to protect themselves from animal infections, says Dr. Wendy Wilkins, Saskatchewan Veterinary Manager of Disease Surveillance.

Animals susceptible to the disease include mink, cats and dogs, said the veterinarian. Mink infections have been traced to infections of two humans. Most cats are asymptomatic, showing no signs of the infection. Some dog infections have been recorded. Wilkins recommends following similar precautions around pets as around humans. Avoid close contact such as petting, snuggling, kissing or being licked by animals during their illness.

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Practice hand washing and avoid coughing or sneezing around animals. Try to have another member of the household care for them. Restrict animals’ contact with people and animals outside the household by keeping cats indoors and putting dogs on a leash or in privately fenced areas. Similar precautions should be taken around poultry and livestock. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

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PAGE A6 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

MeganLarissa Nash releases upbeat music video for newest single ‘Quiet’ Kurz After an enthusiastic response following her last single ‘Artifact’ earlier in the fall, Megan Nash has shared her first single of 2021, complete with an upbeat new music video with a fun twist. The video features a vague 80s vibe and a series of easyto-do workout moves demonstrated by Nash herself and friend Dalton Lam, set to the upbeat tune of Nash’s new single “Quiet,” which debuted at the end of January. Nash said that the new music video was partially inspired by a fascination with workout videos as a child, paired with the desire to put together something fun. “I grew up watching my mom do a lot of, like, Richard Simmons when I was a little kid and I thought it was so entertaining and fun. My mom would put on a workout video, and she would put the coffee table up on the couch to make room, and I would sit inside and watch her,” said Nash. “So this is a music video where people can be like me, as a child, and just watch it or they can participate and move along.” Although it is tagged as a “workout video,” Nash said that the intent behind the idea is more focused on selfcare — less calorie-burning, more fun and positivity to boost spirits. “I hope this video just brings some joy to people, right now in these kind of hard months like February,” said Nash. “The workout, it's just a suggestion. If people want to dance to this song in any way they want to, that would be so cool [but] it's not about burning calories, it's not about getting into shape. It's about moving your boy in a way that feels good, just celebrating the body you have.”

Singer and songwriter Megan Nash has dropped a music video for her newest single ‘Quiet.’ (photo: Logan Amon / artwork: Kelsey Chabot) The “Quiet” video was directed and produced by Regina-based production company Hot Tag Films, filmed last summer with the COVID-19 restrictions in mind. Nash and Lam used a few local parking lots as their backdrop, including The Exchange in Regina, to help the video live up to its alternate, unofficial title — “The Parking Lot Approved Workout.” “The backdrop of the video is in different places you

might find yourself while touring, and so we did that with the intent of, when we’re allowed to tour again, how can we incorporate movement into our routine as self-care when we’re out on the road,” said Nash. Since its release less than two weeks ago, “Quiet” has been making a splash on both Spotify and Apple Music. “It’s been really well received, so far. We got some nice placements on Spotify, a couple of playlists picked it up right off the bat, which was really nice, and with Apple too, we’ve been getting some love there,” said Nash. The single was included on the New Music Friday playlist on Spotify immediately after release, going on to make the Indie All Stars playlist. It was also featured on the New in Alternative and New Music Daily playlists on Apple, before making the top 20 on the New and Alternative playlist in Canada. As the second single from her forthcoming album, Nash described the track as “a danceable breakup song,” with sad lyrics paired with a bouncy tune. “It’s got sort of a sad party vibe to it,” said Nash. “It's a breakup song, with the Saskatchewan prairies as a backdrop. There’s a lot of references [and] for me, it takes me to the prairie landscape when I hear it.” Nash has been keeping busy while unable to tour this past year, even recently launching a new podcast titled “Pep 'n Ched with Megan Nash,” and while there’s no release date yet for the upcoming album, she is promising there’s more new music on its way. The music video for “Quiet” by Megan Nash & the Best of Intentions can be viewed on YouTube.

TRADING THOUGHTS By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

Easy path leads to belief in false conspiracy theories

by Ron Walter

Driving through Regina on the way home from an appointment, my nephew and I spotted a group of picketers on Albert Street carrying bright green signs. “What’s that about?” asked my nephew I glanced as we passed by noticing signs that said “Unmask us” and “CBC Fake News.” “Must be the anti-maskers, the

Buffalo Party,” I replied. My nephew said he couldn’t understand why people refused to wear masks to stop the spread of COVID-19 or why they would call the pandemic a hoax. The incident brought back a memory of how people mislead themselves into believing conspiracy type theories. The Times-Herald publisher came into the newsroom one morning all smiles. “I think we’re going to get a Target store,” he said. “Can you check it out?” “Sure, but why do you think Target is coming here?” “We were at the Warriors game last night. There is an ad on the boards with a big Target bulls eye on it.” “Okay, I’ll call.” I picked up the phone, thinking it wasn’t logical that Target would advertise in the rink before announcing the location or before announcing other loca-

tions in the province. That was just after American-based Target had announced plans to build a chain of stores across Canada. One phone call to the Warriors office dispelled the Target store rumour. The Target bullseye on the Civic Centre boards was advertising for a farm chemical. The publisher was crestfallen when he was told. He had been ready to spread the rumour. The publisher’s mind was predisposed to see that bullseye as the coming of a Target store. That store would have generated advertising and flyer revenue for the newspaper and encouraged other retailers to advertise to keep their share of the market. And the store would have halted some of the consumer traffic leak to Regina stores. His mind was prepared to accept any sign of Target as the truth. That mindset leads people to believing conspiracy theories, preparing them to uncritically accept outlandish ideas as the truth. It helps explain how some people hate Jews because they supposedly control world finances. Jewish people are clever at business because for centuries they weren’t allowed by Christian communities to practice ordinary occupations, so they became business owners and developed a knack for the work. Similarly the Qanon conspiracy that the world is run by Satan worshipping pedophiles was sparked by online

postings from an anonymous so-called high level military intelligence official. People whose minds might have been open to such charges had their opinions bolstered by the likes of Jeffrey Epstein, the billionaire whose parties included underage girls, or Canada’s Peter Nygard, charged with raping underage girls at parties on his yacht. The Internet gives anonymous people an opportunity to rapidly spread false rumours to gullible followers and has allowed a faster spread of false information. Forty years ago Procter & Gamble was the subject of a conspiracy theory that Satanists owned the company, which has no controlling shareholder. The company spent millions denying the accusation. Conspiracy theories have long been around and will stay with the subjects changing. We can expect more of them with the social media communications spreading them so fast. People just have to learn to be skeptical of information and choose reliable sources. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A7

Heart and Stroke fundraiser for Heart Month goes fully online in pandemic era Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

It was back in 1952 that a group of cardiologists and their families first decided to go door-todoor in Toronto to try and raise funds for heart research. That venture soon evolved into the annual Heart Month Canvass, and has since raised millions of dollars for heart and stroke research over the past 70 years. But things are different in 2021. Door-to-door canvassing isn’t a thing in the COVID-19 era, but that doesn’t mean research and development of treatment for heart disease and strokes has stopped or even let up. That’s why Heart & Stroke -- the national body leading the fight against the debilitating conditions -- has pushed their fundraising efforts for February’s Heart Month into the virtual arena. “For nearly 70 years, dedicated volunteers in communities large and small across Canada have continued this tradition and now the Canvass has gone completely virtual to meet today’s needs,” said Doug Roth, CEO of Heart & Stroke in a press release. “Pivoting to in-person fundraising events to go online and enhancing the digital experience is only one of the ways Heart & Stroke has responded to the challenging environment. For years we have focused on innovating to fund our mission, and in this climate it’s more critical than ever to look for new ways to collaborate and create partnerships to accelerate change.” Anyone interested in throwing their weight behind the canvass can do so by visiting their fundraising and donation page by visiting https://bit.ly/3b0hhUj The page includes information on how to become a virtual canvasser as well as plenty of tips and tricks on how to maximize your success. Or, you can simple click the donate button at the top of the page to make a direct donation yourself. And also know that whatever you raise or give, you’ll be donating more than just your own time and cash -- Canadian Pacific has announced that it will be tripling the donations through the month of February, up to $100,000. Heart and Stroke has been leading advances in heart and brain health for more than 60 years, leading to advancements in treatment and care that have saved and changed millions of lives. That’s on top of their community presence -- in the last year alone Heart & Stroke instructors trained more than 345,000 health care professionals across Canada to respond to cardiac emergencies and helped train 229,000 everyday Canadians in basic CPR and first aid. Even with that success Heart & Stroke’s work must continue. Heart disease, stroke and related conditions take one life every five minutes in Canada. An estimated 1.6 million more are living with various disease’s effects. For more information on Heart & Stroke, including warning signs and other information, including how to learn CPR, visit www.heartandstroke.ca.

Local construction off to slow start For Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw construction started the year slower than last year. City hall issued nine permits in January worth $340,000 compared with eight permits valued at $769,000 in January last year. No new single family residence permit values were recorded in January, with one

worth $232,000 last year. Two commercial permits during the month involved alterations at service stations with $115,000 at 1592 Ninth Ave Northwest and $130,000 at the Co-op gas bar at 414 Ninth Avenue Southwest. One demolition permit was issued.

Province to provide over $275M to communities through revenue sharing program For Moose Jaw Express

Saskatchewan’s municipalities can expect a bit of help from the provincial government. Early last week, Premier Scott Moe announced Saskatchewan municipalities will receive more than $275 million in 2021-22 under the Municipal Revenue Sharing Program. That is the second-highest amount in the program’s history. Municipalities received $278 million last year. “This unconditional provincial funding

for municipalities provides local leaders the flexibility and adaptability to invest in their community’s current key priorities,” Moe said in a news release. “This stable and predictable source of revenue is more important than ever for communities as they meet the challenges of COVID-19.” The annual provincial funding amount for this Government of Saskatchewan program is based on three quarters of one point of the provincial sales tax (PST) revenue collected from two years prior.

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PAGE A8 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Gina Jewelry International offering expert sales and service for the city’s jewelry needs Larissa Kurz

Business P rofile Owned and operated by husband and wife duo Ping Su and Wenheng Jian, Gina Jewelry International recently opened its first retail location in Moose Jaw and the new business owners are already enjoying being part of the local business community. The Su family arrived in Moose Jaw last winter, settling into the city for a few months before opening Gina Jewelry in July. Since then, they have been welcoming customers to the new jewelry store’s brightly lit showroom on High Street West, to offer their expertise as qualified jewellers and gemstone appraisers.

Owner and expert jeweller Ping Su is already happy to see his new business, Gina Jewelry International, welcomed to Moose Jaw. (photo by Larissa Kurz) Gina Jewelry’s brightly lit showroom offers a large selection of products, said son Wen Su, who spoke on behalf of his parents. All of the store’s products are sourced from quality suppliers in both Canada

The showroom at Gina Jewelry International features plenty of options for customers looking for something new. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

and the Su family’s home country of China, continued Wen, including a large variety of jewelry in gold and silver styles, and plenty of different settings featuring diamonds, pearls, amber, opal, other precious stones and even jade. The selection is vast, with an option available for all price ranges and tastes — from sparkling engagement rings to gemstone-laden necklaces and beaded bracelets, and even carved jade bracelets and pendants. “When a customer comes to us, I think they will find what they want. That’s the most important thing about us, [and the] difference from other jewelry stores,” said Wen. In addition to the large jewelry selection, Gina Jewelry carries a number of other types of products as well. An entire wall of the showroom features a display of intricately painted plates and vases, decorative jade sculptures, and other interesting pieces that Wen said are very unique to the prairies. “Those works, we brought them from China, and it's kind of like a show-off,” he laughed, before adding they are available for customers. “They are very unique things that, I believe, around Saskatchewan, no [other] stores have those.” Since both owners are certified jewellers and gemstone appraisers, Gina Jewelry is also able to offer more than just a tasteful showroom filled with a selection of merchandise. The store also features a service department right on-site, providing customers with extra services including repair and maintenance, custom setting options and jewelry cleaning — which Ping said has been very popular with customers so far. With his long experience as a jeweller, Ping is very confident that Gina Jewelry can provide the customers of Moose Jaw with a quality experience whenever they step foot in his establishment. “My parents have over 30 years of experience, so that’s why we are so confident that we can offer so many different things,” said Wen. Ping said that he saw great potential in Moose Jaw as a jeweller, and he felt the Friendly City would be a great place to open his business and provide a new jeweller option within the city. “He likes it here,” said Wen. “He likes the environment here; there are many friendly people here [and] he’s feeling happy to bring this service to our community.” Gina Jewelry International is located at 240 High Street West, open for customers to visit Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

With plenty of choices available, Gina Jewelry also offers coordinated sets for those looking for a matching necklace, earring, ring and bracelet ensemble. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

More than just sparkly rings, the new jewelry store also carries a selection of jade pieces, including pieces made out of jade sourced from B.C. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

In addition to jewelry, the store also carries a number of decorative wares. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

A feature display that shows off a stunning amethyst ring, alongside decorative pieces. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

A snapshot of the selection of precious stones available, including opals, diamonds, and peridot. (photo by Larissa Kurz)

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A9

- Moose Jaw’s Source for News! Local news,Stapleton weather and sportsafter 39 years Moose Jaw firefighter retires Your connection to the world Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

If there was any question that Rod Stapleton was destined to be a firefighter, his first day as a bus driver for the City of Moose Jaw way back in the winter of 1980 offered a quick answer. It isn’t often you’re out saving lives on the very first day on your very first route. But there Stapleton was, all those years ago, ferrying some of Moose Jaw’s most vulnerable as the Gulf Oil conflagration raged on Dec. 1, 1980. More than four decades later, including 39 years as a firefighter, Stapleton officially retired on Feb. 7 as a senior captain with the Moose Jaw Fire Department. Stapleton had been fuelling and cleaning busses in the weeks leading up to that fateful day in 1980, but finally was assigned a route as a driver when… “It was my first day driving the bus, then the manager comes on when I got downtown and says ‘get this bus up to Chateau St. Michaels and start evacuating people’, and all I could think of is ‘that’s not my bus route’,” Stapleton said. “So we were able to evacuate a lot of people and 13 months later I transferred to the fire department and I’ve been there for another 39 years after that.”

“It’s a very rewarding career at the department; it’s a second family,” - Rod Stapleton

Interestingly enough, firefighting wasn’t first on Stapleton’s list of vocations when he graduated high school. He was more focused on joining another organization designed to serve and protect. “Out of high school I wanted to be a policeman, but I’m a third-generation firefighter for the City of Moose Jaw, my great-grandfather and grandfather were firefighters over 100 years ago,” Stapleton explained. “So I had applied to the fire department and police department and had been going through different police departments hoping to get hired and waiting, but then I got the call to transfer to the Moose Jaw Fire Department and that was it.” So off Stapleton went to fire school and… actually, ‘fire school’ was a little different back in the day. “You walk in back door at the old hall; they give you some gear and you jump on the back of the truck between these two guys and they’ll teach you everything you need to know. It was kind of a ‘what have I got myself into here’,” Stapleton said humourously. “But I had great mentors, they taught me well.” Stapleton himself spent much time upgrading his skills, of course, learning the

Rod Stapleton retired on Feb. 7 after 39 years with the Moose Jaw Fire Department. ins and outs of confined space, high angle, low angle and trench rescues, and a steady stream of levelling up throughout his career. “It’s all valuable experience; we might not know if we need it tomorrow, next week or next year so you have to keep up on everything,” he said. As he spent time at the local firehouses, Stapleton rose through the ranks. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2007, Shift Captain in 2012, to Assistant Chief in 2016 and into his final position as Senior Captain on February 14, 2020. And through it all, the legendary camaraderie and closeness firefighters experience with their fellow crew members helped make it all worthwhile. “It’s a very rewarding career at the department; it’s a second family,” Stapleton said. “You spend a lot of time with the crews you’re on, and the camaraderie and the teamwork in the profession are always there. You work holidays and weekends, the fire hall is just a little bit special, we’re very close.” That especially rings true in the most dangerous of situations. And Stapleton was there for some of the worst fires in Moose Jaw’s history. He might not have been manning the hoses for the Gulf Oil blaze, but he was there for the Empress Hotel fire in 1987. And the McKarr’s Furniture fire and Bridge House Hotel fires in 1988, with the latter carrying a distinct memory. “I remember driving across the bridge the Ninth Avenue Bridge and you could see the smoke going over the bridge so we knew we had something bad,” Stapleton said. Then, of course, there’s the 2004 New Year’s Day fire, a conflagration that destroyed half a city block on Main Street and left much of what remained covered in inches of ice. Regardless of what was in front of him, Stapleton always did his best to help en-

sure the best outcome possible - something his colleagues most certainly appreciated. “Throughout Rod’s career he has been a superior role model and mentor for new employees and his peers,” said Fire Chief Rod Montgomery. “Rod’s attention to detail, easy-going demeanour and work ethic were second to none. His many years as a firefighter, then as an officer were exceptional and were evident in the respect he had from the MJFD administration and his fellow members.” For his part, Stapleton was just doing the job as he knew it. “There are so many good things and bad things… you get a call and you have to mitigate the problem when you get there, you have limited information until you arrive,” he said. “You’re starting your plan on the way there, but until you get there and see what you have, you never really know. All you can do is hope it turns out for the good and you can help people out.” It wasn’t all fires, medical emergencies and accidents, though. Being in public and working alongside the Local 553 Moose Jaw Firefighters Union with their charitable works was also a source of pride. “We fundraise not only for the provincial

burn unit, but we have our own charity fund that we have different events for the year and make donations to different causes,” Stapleton said. “Then there are things like Habitat for Humanity, they might need some drywall hauled in or something like that and we’d be happy to help. Even just the fire prevention and taking the trucks out in public, it’s always a lot of fun.” Stapleton was recognized multiple times for his craft receiving, including the 20Year Exemplary Service Medal in 2002, the Saskatchewan Protective Services Medal in 2009 and his 30-Year Exemplary Service Bar in 2013. As for his plans now that he doesn’t have to show up for work anymore? “I’m going to get out and do a little more golfing, that I haven’t done as much lately, I have two weddings coming up; both my kids are engaged. Then once COVID is over, do some travelling,” he said. “I’m just thankful for my family and friends and their support over the years. You miss a lot of birthdays, Christmases, sporting events, dance recitals. It’s good to have that family support where they understand you’re doing something you believe in.”

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PAGE A10 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures Saskatchewan, United Way webinar series to offer support for non-profits and small businesses Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

A trio of provincial and regional organizations are banding together to once again offer assistance to small businesses and non-profit organizations. Community Futures Saskatchewan, United Way Regina and the Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce will launch their new Community.Commerce. United (CCU) webinar series beginning at the end of February, offering a host of information to those who could use it the most in these trying times. “With the different challenges that non-profits have with traditional fundraising efforts and awareness and getting services to the community, the three groups had several meetings and decided to gear the webinars towards those organizations,” explained Karla Wiens, CEO of the Swift Current and District Chamber of Commerce. “The goal for all three of us is to benefit our community, whether that’s through business performance, reaching our clients and doing just anything we can, and that where this series comes in.” The webinars will begin on Feb. 24 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., with the first topic covering the 211 Saskatchewan service and offering participants a chance to learn about the resource, which can assist in helping clients navigate steps and offer support to their specific needs. The event will be presented by 211 Saskatchewan and with Feb. 11 being 211 Day nationally - will be offered free of charge by entering the code 211Day when registering on the webinar websiteccu-sk.ca The second webinar, Grant Writing and Applications, is one Wiens expects will be of special interest to their target audience. It will take place on Mar. 28 at a cost of $30 and will offer tips and tricks on writing grants from a funder’s perspective. It will be facilitated by Kristin Gushuliak of United Way Regina and Karen Henders, Director of Community and Grant Stewardship at the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.

A new webinar series featuring topics to help non-profits and small businesses thrive in these difficult times will kick off on Feb. 24. “(Grant writing) isn’t something we learn in high school or even university and knowing how to do so can be really helpful, it can increase your probability of success and that’s really important,” Wiens said. Other planned topic with dates to be announced in the future include: - Professional Development – Board of Directors and Management - The Virtual World Part I & Part II - Addressing Frontline Mental Health & Burnout - Sponsorship & Recognition - Creating Business with Social Impact. “There are eight to start with and we’ll see how it goes, hopefully all the attendees find it as helpful as we’d like it to be,” Wiens said. “Calendars fill up quick, so people can register for the whole series or pick and choose as they like and we just look forward to seeing faces on the webinars.” For more information, visit ccu-sk.ca for an in-depth look at the first two events and be sure to check back often for more on future webinars.

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The Swift Current-Moose Jaw labour region had almost 5,000 more unemployed workers at the end of January than a year ago. There were 51,100 persons employed in the region at Jan. 31 compared with 55,000 a year ago, according to the Statistics Canada monthly employment survey. There were also 2,500 fewer people in the region’s labour force with those people having stopped looking for work, moved away or retired. The unemployment rate for the region was 6.9 per cent compared with 4.2 per cent one year ago when the pandemic was just starting. Unemployment jumped sharply month over month with 1,300 more lost jobs from December 31, 2020 to the end of January 2021. The Saskatchewan unemployment rate of 7.3 per cent compared with 6.3 per cent in January 2020, with a loss of 26,000 jobs across the province during the year. The Saskatchewan labour force has declined by 16,600 persons in the last 12 months with these people no longer looking for work, retired or moved out of the province. Top five categories of job losses during the 12 months

were accommodation and food services losing 1,400 jobs and natural resources losing 900. Tied for third at 700 job losses each were wholesale, retail and finance, insurance and real estate. Tied for fourth with 500 lost jobs each were agriculture, utilities, public administration and other services. Top five categories with increased jobs were health care and social services, 2,000; education, 1,800; construction, 1,400; goods manufacturing, 1,000; and business support, 500 jobs. The Swift Current-Moose Jaw labour region has the second lowest unemployment rate of 7.2 per cent among the province’s five regions. Lowest unemployment rate is six per cent in the Yorkton-Melville region with third lowest of seven per cent in the Prince Albert northern region. Fourth goes to Regina Moose Mountain at 7.2 per cent. Highest unemployment rate is in Saskatoon-Biggar at 7.8 per cent. Third lowest is seven per cent in the Prince Albert Northern region. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Province surpasses daily natural gas usage record for eighth year in a row Larissa Kurz

SaskEnergy is reporting that the daily natural gas consumption in the province has surpassed the previous usage record, set in January of last year. Daily usage records are tracked over a 24-hour period, from 9 a.m. until 9 a.m., said a press release from the Crown, with the period from Feb. 8-9, 2021 reaching a new high for Saskatchewan. Records are showing that on Feb. 9, the province reached a new daily consumption record of 1.57 petajoules (PJ) of natural gas, an increase over the previous record of 1.55 PJ set on Jan. 15, 2020. A petajoule of natural gas is equivalent to one million gigajoules (GJ). For perspective, SaskEnergy shared that the average home in Saskatchewan consumes about 100 GJ of natural gas annually.

This is the eighth year in a row that the province’s daily usage record has been matched or succeeded during the winter, an increase SaskEnergy says is due to growth in residential, business and industrial consumers. The increase of using natural gas for power production is also playing a part in the rise, said the Crown. SaskEnergy assured customers that the pipeline system and infrastructure is designed to accommodate this level of increased growth, with additional capacity available so that the system is able to keep up with demand on peak usage days. Employees are also monitoring the system to manage peak demand situations, including winter weather conditions like the cold snap the province is currently experiencing.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A11

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St. Andrew’s hosting drive-by roast beef dinner for Palm Sunday Larissa Kurz

St. Andrew’s United Church is hosting a drivethrough roast beef dinner on March 28, to celebrate Palm Sunday while continuing to respect the current public health orders in place. The roast beef supper will be provided by Charlotte’s Catering, featuring a full meal for the cost of $20 per plate. Meals will be available for pickup between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., with guests asked to park alongside the Athabasca Street East entrance to the church where a volunteer will deliver the meal to your vehicle. The drive-by dinner is set to take place on Palm Sunday, a day celebrated in the Christian tradition with a feast to begin the holy week leading up to Easter Sunday. The meal can be purchased by contacting the church at 1 (306) 692-0533 during office hours, which is also where payment can be made in person, or by contacting Sheila Leahy at 1 (306) 694-5980 or Louise McDougall at 1 (306) 693-2312.

From The Kitchen

S u g a r o n e i te m r at i o n e d fo r w a r t i m e h o m e m a k e rs By Joyce Walter For Moose Jaw Express

During the Second World War sugar was rationed with information showing the ration was 1 cup of sugar per adult per week. The recipes in the book, Wartime Recipes and Food Rules, are designed to “stretch your sugar ration; each recipe calls for only a moderate amount of sugar,” authors said. The book, published by Woodland Dairy in Edmonton, also offered homemakers some tips on how to save sugar: serve fresh, canned or dried fruits often for dessert; add sugar to stewed fruit after cooking and while still warm as less sugar will be required; make cakes without frosting; use a plain sugar syrup or one from canned fruit to sweeten cold drinks; or cut the sugar required in half by adding raisins to cooked cereal. This week’s recipes come from Wartime Recipes and Food Rules, a book shared by local reader Dan MacAulay. •••

Blanc Mange

4 tbsps. cornstarch 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup cold milk 2 1/2 cups hot milk 1 egg 1 tsp. vanilla Mix cornstarch, sugar and salt and blend with cold milk. Add slowly to hot milk in the top of a double boiler and stir constantly until mixture thickens. Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add well-beaten egg and cook another 3 minutes. Remove from heat and add flavouring. Chill and serve with Whipped Jelly Sauce (see next recipe.) (To make a chocolate cream, use the Blanc Mange recipe, using 1/3 cup sugar and 4 tbsps. cocoa and preparing as directed. •••

Whipped Jelly Sauce

1/2 cup pure jelly (grape, crabapple or red currant)

1 egg white, unbeaten pinch of salt Melt jelly in a bowl over hot water. Add egg white and salt and beat with rotary egg beater until stiff. Cool, then serve with chilled Blanc Mange. •••

Oatmeal Prune Pudding

1 cup quick cooking rolled oats 1/2 tsp. soda 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. cinnamon 1/3 lb. prunes, cut finely 2 eggs, well-beaten 1/3 cup light molasses 2/3 cup water 1 1/2 tbsps. lemon juice Mix rolled oats with soda, salt, cinnamon and prunes. Combine the eggs, molasses, water and lemon juice and add to the dry ingredients. Pour into a buttered pudding mould, cover and steam for three hours. Makes 8 servings. •••

Pork, beef outlook still impacted by Chinese in 2021 By Ron Walter - For Agri-Mart Express

AGRIMART

EXPRESS The impact of African Swine Fever and China’s rebuilding of the swine fever decimated hog herd will influence pork markets in 2021, says a Farm Credit Canada (FCC) economist. “Having already re-built much of their hog herd and looking to complete its recovery China will be the primary driver of livestock markets throughout the year ahead,” said Martha Roberts in an FCC market outlook report. China’s pork production fell 30 per cent to 38 million metric tonnes due to African Swine Fever, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. That production is expected to recover to 43.5 million metric tonnes this year. China increased pork and beef imports to offset meat production declines from the fever. Pork imports more than doubled to about 4,500 metric tonnes while beef imports rose about one-third to around 3,000 metric tonnes. Pork production recovery should reduce reliance on imports for China. Locally, front meat demand should stay strong with spending of the extra money consumers have saved during the pandemic by not being able to pursue usual activities. Beef demand should increase as restaurants return to normal operations when pandemic restrictions are lifted.

Disruption of supply chains in North America by shutting down processing plants with COVID-19 outbreaks left a backlog of animals to slaughter. While Canada appears to have eliminated the backlog, “further shutdowns are possible.” Roberts predicts Western Canada hog prices will be a little lower than average at $75 per hundredweight, down from the five year average of $77. That will pressure profit margins. “Profitability throughout the cattle sector will vary.” Cow-calf producer margins should be strong but feedlot operators and backgrounders may struggle to break even, especially in the first half of the year. On the cost side interest rates should stay low but labour costs could increase two to three per cent as the economy recovers from the pandemic, she said. Feed barley is expected to increase six per cent to $258 a tonne with a 3.7 per cent increase in corn prices. Pressure on feed grain prices could intensify if La Nina weather patterns continue and affect crops in South America and the United States. Chinese imports for hogs influence feed prices. Corn prices over there are almost twice as high as in the U.S. with imports estimated at100 million tonnes for soybeans and 175 million tonnes for corn, putting China just behind the European Union for import volumes. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Apple Souffle

6 tbsps. flour 1/8 tsp. salt 1 cup milk 3 egg yolks 1/3 cup brown sugar 1 cup grated apple 3 egg whites 1 tsp. lemon extract 1/4 tsp. almond extract Mix flour with a small portion of milk. Heat remaining milk and stir in flour mixture. Add salt and cook over hot water, stirring until thick and well cooked. Add sugar and cool. Add well-beaten egg yolks, flavouring and apple pulp. Lastly fold in stiffly beaten egg whites. Pour into a buttered baking dish or individual custard cups. Place in a pan of hot water and bake until firm, about one hour. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

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PAGE A12 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Board of Police Commissioners

Police chief frustrated that officers aren’t prioritized to get COVID-19 vaccine first Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw Police Chief Rick Bourassa is frustrated that police are not being prioritized to receive the COVID-19 vaccine since he believes they should be considered front-line workers. The provincial government announced recently that phase 2 of the vaccine rollout would vaccinate residents based on their age. The first group of people to receive the jab is those from ages 60 to 69, then decreasing by 10-year increments. Bourassa became fired up talking about the situation during the Board of Police Commissioners’ meeting on Feb. 11. When the state of emergency was first declared last March, the provincial government put responsibility for enforcement of public health orders squarely on police, Bourassa said. The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) took on that duty and has continued to enforce those orders ever since. The data shows that the organization has responded to many pandemic-related calls, even though not all public interactions are recorded. “Our front-line officers — every day — are responding to situations in the middle of the pandemic in which they’re exposed,” Bourassa continued. “We’ve had isolations; we’ve had quarantines. We’ve had all sorts of things that have gone on, not only here, but across the province.” The MJPS has been fortunate since there have been only a few times where officers have isolated themselves after engaging with the public. This forced the organization to call in officers to cover shifts. It also moved to its deferred readiness plan, which keeps non-exposed officers isolated so they can be brought in if necessary. The police service is concerned about its ability to provide community safety during the pandemic and respond to every situation it’s called about, the police chief said.

Since the MJPS is an enforcement arm for the provincial government during the pandemic, he was dissatisfied that phase 2 does not recognize that work and bases the qualifications strictly on age. The Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police — of which Bourassa is president — has regularly informed the rollout committee about the important work front-line officers have performed and continue to perform throughout the pandemic. The association has said community safety will erode without officers’ presence, along with the ability to enforce public health orders. “We’re doing everything we can to prevent that from happening. We believe front-line police officers should be prioritized for vaccination because of that critical function we play in containing this pandemic as much as it can be contained,” Bourassa said. “We are disappointed that that was not considered. We are disappointed that we were discussed at one point as just an interest group. We are not an interest group in this.” Bourassa pointed out that many police services are comprised of officers in younger age groups, which means these members will likely be vaccinated last. This is concerning, he continued, so the police association will continue to speak with the provincial government to help it understand what the stakes are for not prioritizing front-line officers. While few people would notice if office-bound police members disappeared for a while, many communities across the province “would notice in a flash” if their working officers suddenly vanished, he added. There have been many detachments throughout Saskatchewan that have not had the manpower during the pandemic, so ensuring police get the jab is vital. The next Board of Police Commissioners’ meeting is Thursday, March 9.

Benefits of Census of Agriculture explained AGRIMART

EXPRESS Not all farmers are happy to see the Census of Agriculture form arrive in the mail. First of all, the census comes in May when farmers are either making last minute preparations for seeding or actually seeding. Second, some farmers don't see any benefit to sharing their private personal infor-

By Ron Walter - For Agri-Mart Express mation with a government agency. munity level data that ensures the unique Sensing the reluctance of some farmers to perspectives of farmers, farm commutake part in the 2021 census, Alberta Ag- nities and agricultural operations are inriculture prepared a statement explaining cluded when making decisions that affect why the census is important to farmers them and their livelihood.” and the rest of Canada. The data is needed to defend the interests The statement describes the census as of farmers and agriculture in trade and important to help “farmers see emerging market access disputes. The data also protrends in agriculture technologies and vides facts for use in making decisions on practices,” and to make informed deci- financial supports like crop insurance and sions on their own operations. “The census is the only source of com-

farm safety net programs. When census forms arrive in early May farmers can expect an invitation letter with easy-to-follow instructions on how to complete the questionnaire online. Statistics Canada has taken steps to reduce the reporting burden by making the questionnaire quicker and easier to respond to by only asking questions relevant to each operator's farm.

BIZWORLD By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

Geothermal heat may be used locally almost a century after discovery

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It’s not surprising to see a proposal for Moose Jaw to link up with someone for development of geothermal energy to heat the new industrial park The big surprise is why it took so long. The underground hot water source has been known for more than a century when natural gas exploration discovered the geothermal water source. The natural gas explorers were trying in 1910 to replicate natural gas pools that made Medicine Hat, Alta a magnet for industry. They did find some natural gas. During a city council tour of the water well, one councillor threw away a lit cigarette, setting off a fire from the vapour but it wasn’t enough to be commercially viable. The geothermal well was harnessed for Moose Jaw when the Kinsmen Club, with a loan from the city, built the Natatorium. The Nat used hot water from the well and attracted tens of thousands of people year round to the pool for leisure and healing until 1957 when the well cribbing collapsed. That same water feeds the Temple Gardens Mineral Spa which was subject of a recent video featuring Moose Jaw Mayor Fraser Tolmie inviting everyone for a staycation at the spa. Tolmie has come under criticism for inviting guests to Moose Jaw in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic and creating the potential for a super spreader event. When city council invited proposals for the spa over 30 years ago local developer Sammy Klein presented one. His research showed that the underground geothermal water source stretches from the Lakehead at Thunder Bay to Banff, Alta. Indeed,

the town of Unity, Sask. made plans to develop a spa there, east of Saskatoon, but never followed up. So far Moose Jaw is the only community to take advantage of the geothermal layer of water across the Prairies. The idea of a district heating system using this water was floated with discussions about heating the downtown as well as the spa pool from this source. That plan was scotched when it was pointed out the water is too corrosive for a heating system. A few district homes have used geothermal heat including one near the new industrial park, but they aren’t tapping the deep source. Nor is the Grant Hall Hotel geothermal heating system using the deep water source. The proposal to heat the industrial park area with geothermal water does raise some questions. The geologist making the proposal to council suggested obtaining geothermal water from the Galilee district some 35 miles south of Moose Jaw. Would it not be more efficient and less expensive to tap the geothermal water under the industrial park and save the miles of piping, as well as not having to re-heat the water? The proposal does put Moose Jaw on the map for use of an environmentally-friendly source of energy. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A13

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Province’s ag exports rose 31Byper cent last year over 2019, data shows Moose Jaw Express staff Despite facing a pandemic, 2020 was a record year for agriculture exports in Saskatchewan, as the province led the nation in growth of overall export sales compared to 2019. Saskatchewan produced $16.9 billion in agricultural exports last year, an increase of 31 per cent from 2019 and a new high for the province, according to a news release. This represents more than 55 per cent of total provincial exports in 2020, which were valued at $30.4 billion. This brings the province closer to meeting its Growth Plan goals, which include growing agri-food exports to $20 billion and increasing agriculture value-added revenue to $10 billion by 2030, the release continued. These strong export numbers also reinforce Saskatchewan’s global reputation as a dependable source of safe,

high-quality resources, goods and products. Overall merchandise export sales last year were more than $30 billion, up 2.5 per cent over 2019, the highest percentage

REFLECTIVE MOMENTS

Parents did know something about winter layering

Friends of my childhood, those friends who knew all the details of my disdain for wearing layers of winter clothing, will no Joyce Walter doubt be laughFor Moose Jaw Express ing in their therronjoy@sasktel.net mal socks. As a know-it-all pre-teen and teenager, there was a constant battle waged in my parental home as they (parents) and I debated over how many layers it would take to ward off frost bite and internal chills during the winters that to that point were always more dangerous than any that had gone before. There is photographic evidence that the parents won all the skirmishes prior to the school bus days that took us to another community via the warmth of a heated vehicle. We were dropped off and picked up at the doors of the school, leaving only less than a moment’s walk to the warmth of the indoors. In my mind that meant it was wasting clothing and time to dress as though we had to walk up hill to and from school, climbing snow banks to get to our destinations. The walk to meet the bus did not count in my argument. The photos show this child bundled in parkas and winter over-alls, hood up, scarf around the forehead and neck, mittens in place and snow boots buckled to the top of their fur trim. I do admit that the child looked as though she were enjoying the winter outdoors, even pulling or sitting on a sled, and wearing all that gear for the family photographer. And I will admit that not once in my entire childhood did I suffer from frost bite, nor did I lose fingers and toes even though such a loss was often proclaimed as a dire result of not wearing proper amounts of winter apparel. An acknowledgement that the parents were wiser than their child has been many years in the making, but here it is: “Mom

and Dad were smarter than their children.” It is not too much to think they would have been laughing out loud if they had watched me digging through the drawers and closets in recent years. My purchases in preparation for winter temperatures have gone beyond sweaters, gloves and a parka rated for Arctic lows. Without admitting that I have become my parents, I bought some thermal long-johns. I bought a couple of packages of thermal, long-sleeved, itchy tops to wear under my normal pullovers. I bought a pair of mitts to wear over my fleece-lined gloves. And I bought a scarf. In preparation for a trip to Regina for an appointment I donned my long-johns, my support hose, my regular heavy wool trousers, my thermal long-sleeved top, my regular top, and a zip-up thermal sweater. It was such a chore putting on all those layers that I had to sit down for a rest before dragging on my parka and bending over to zip the zip and put the buttons through the holes. My scarf went into my pocket. Then I needed to rest before pushing my feet into boots with the winter studs on the bottom. Fitting behind the steering wheel was a challenge but not nearly the challenge of sitting in the backseat and being so heavily clothed that I had a difficult time making the seat belt stretch across my blimpy self. Again, I have to say the parents were correct. All those layers kept me warm and that blanket with me in the back seat would have been another layer of protection had the car failed or we slipped into a ditch. Hopefully my old friends have matured along with me, and are also dressing in layers. I won’t laugh at them and in return, I hope they won’t too loudly laugh if they see my rotund body rolling down the sidewalk. At least we all will be warm. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.

increase among the provinces. On a national basis, exports were down 12.2 per cent over the same period. Saskatchewan’s leading agriculture exports continue to be canola seed, non-durum wheat, lentils, canola oil and durum wheat. “The global COVID-19 pandemic has hit all economies hard worldwide, but these export numbers are strong signs our province is in a positive position for economic recovery in 2021,” Jeremy Harrison, minister of Trade and Export Development, said in the release. “With our world-class and growing export base, we have what the world wants and needs, (so) it will continue to drive investment and jobs for communities right across Saskatchewan.” In 2020, major increases in exports were seen in farm and intermediate food prod-

ucts; forestry products and building and packaging materials; and industrial machinery, equipment, and parts. Saskatchewan’s top international markets for 2020 were the United States, China, Japan and India. Saskatchewan agri-food export destinations are also diverse, as the province’s top agri-food exports in 2020 were United States, China, Japan, India and Mexico. “Saskatchewan producers grow safe, high-quality food that the world needs and our agriculture exporters remain committed to providing the world with these products,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said in the news release. “I want to commend our producers on their hard work and resilience, which led to a new record in agri-food exports for 2020.” Increases in primary production and a growing value-added sector contributed to the record agri-food export growth in Saskatchewan, the release continued. In 2020, value-added exports were $3.2 billion, with canola oil, canola meal and processed oats the top value-added products. Currently, the Government of Saskatchewan is working to open new trade offices in Singapore, Japan and India in 2021 to support increased export diversification, added the release. The new offices will complement the existing trade office in China, while continued access to Asian markets will benefit the province’s important economic sectors.

21024mm0

PAGE A14 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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Foot Fun!

Match the two bold words to the meaning of the new word they make when “added” together!

Have you noticed that some words are made up of 2 words put together? The meanings of the 2 words are often “added together” to mean a new thing. For example: foot + ball = football. The new words are called compound words.

1. foot + ball (sphere used in games) 2. foot + man (male human) 3. foot + note (short message) 4. foot + wear (clothing) 5. foot + stool (seat with no back) 6. foot + hold (to have in hand) 7. foot + board (flat piece of wood) 8. foot + hill (sloped area) 9. foot + bridge (built structure ) 10. foot + path (walkway)

ACROSS 1. Mobile phone 5. Actor Clark _____ 10. Engendered 14. Chalcedony 15. Hawaiian feasts 16. Back 17. Edible marine gastropod 19. Monster 20. An uncle 21. Inn 22. Senescent 23. Schemes 25. Collection of maps 27. Genus of macaws 28. Someone not present 31. Elbow room 34. A large stout nail 35. Beam 36. Mentally irregular (slang) 37. Pontiffs 38. Rant 39. Anger 40. Infractions 41. Concerns 42. Oust 44. Not wet 45. Submit

A. structure only wide enough for a person to cross B. opposite of the headboard, found at the bottom of bed C. place to rest or start on a rock climb D. narrow trail for hikers E. sneakers, boots, sandals and high-heeled shoes F. popular sport that is played on the gridiron or field G. small hill at the base of a larger mountain H. servant who waits on tables or opens doors I. note at the bottom of page that helps explain the text J. place to rest your feet at the end of a long day

46. Dampen 50. Open grassland 52. Property claims 54. Before, poetically 55. Senile 56. Plastic wrap 58. Alley 59. Glacial ridge 60. Previously owned 61. Biblical garden 62. S S S S 63. Untidyness

22. Away from the wind 24. Meal in a shell 26. Sounds of disapproval 28. Big name in computers 29. Overhang 30. Visual organs 31. Skidded 32. Minute opening 33. A colorless flammable gas 34. Silent 37. Swimming hole 38. Beams 40. Fuss 41. Crunchy 43. Concealed 44. Givers 46. Donnybrook 47. Make fun of 48. Anagram of “Sneer” 49. Requires 50. Sheltered spot 51. Quaint outburst 53. Varieties 56. C 57. Make a low continuous sound

DOWN 1. Manages 2. Foe 3. Harps 4. 61 in Roman numerals 5. A type of brain tumor 6. Parental sisters 7. Harden 8. Cradlesongs 9. East southeast 10. A thick and heavy shoe 11. Recorder 12. Acquire deservedly Daily Sudoku Puzzles by KrazyDad, February 10, 2 13. Remnant 18. What place?

S U D O K U Sudoku #5 - Challenging

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6 3

2 7

5 1 9 6

Sudoku #7 - Tough 5 7 8 3 2 1 6 2 4 1 8 9 6 7 3 6 9 7 5 4 8 9 1 6 4 7 2 5 4 3 7 5 8 9 1 8 5 2 1 6 3 4 7 8 3 9 4 5 2 6 9 5 2 1 7 3 1 2 4 6 3 8 9

7 5 8

4 9 5 3 2 1 3 8 6 2 9 7 1 6

Sudoku #5 - Challenging 9 1 5 7 3 8 6 2 8 6 7 5 4 2 1 9 4 3 2 1 6 9 7 5 1 5 9 6 7 4 3 8 2 7 4 9 8 3 5 6 8 6 2 1 5 4 7 9 1 4 2 7 8 3 4 3 8 9 6 2 1 2 8 3 5 1 9 4

3 4

6 1

5 4 7 3 9 1 5 9 7

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.

9 6 5

If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork. Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle. Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck. 1

4 3 8 2

Sudoku #8 - Super Tough 7 5 2 3 9 6 4 8 1 8 4 9 7 1 5 2 3 6 6 3 1 8 4 2 7 5 9 1 8 3 5 6 7 9 4 2 9 7 5 4 2 3 6 1 8 2 6 4 9 8 1 5 7 3 5 1 7 2 3 9 8 6 4 1 7 8 3 9 5 6 5 4 1 2 7 3

8 6

Sudoku #6 - Challenging 4 6 3 5 9 2 1 8 1 7 9 6 4 8 5 3 5 8 2 7 1 3 9 4 9 3 6 2 5 4 8 7 8 4 7 1 6 9 2 5 2 5 1 8 3 7 4 6 6 9 4 3 2 5 7 1 3 2 8 4 7 1 6 9 1 5 9 8 6 3 2 7

5 4

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MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021 – Page A17

Special Feature

A Special Pull-out Feature

Why a wealth tax in Canada is a horrible idea

We naturally tend to rationalize taxes on others. However, the arithmetic is undeniable: we can’t solve our problems by soaking the rich By Caitlin Rose Morgante, Research Associate | FRONTIER CENTRE FOR PUBLIC POLICY

Eat-the-rich rhetoric is good politics but bad policy. The wealthy minority contribute precious investment and much-needed employment, but no good deed goes unpunished. The spectre of a wealth tax, which hangs over Canada, epitomizes infantile, self-defeating governance. Last autumn, federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh introduced a motion in the House of Commons calling for a “super-wealth and an excess-profits tax on big corporations profiteering from the pandemic.” As if the ends justified the means, the NDP called for the revenue to be spent on social and health-care programs as well as “a guaranteed livable basic income.” Even though the motion was defeated on Nov. 16 by a vote of 292 to 27, future attempts at a wealth tax are likely. They’re intensifying and garnering support among middle-class Canadians who don’t foresee that this theft could one day come knocking on their doors. A strong middle class In a recent throne speech, the federal government pledged to institute a wealth tax to fund the COVID-19 spending plan. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared that rising inequality and a “hollowed-out middle class” are two of the most important issues facing our generation. Such claims obscure the reality. Data from Statistics Canada show that wealth held by the lowest three income quintiles actually increased from 27.1 per cent in 2010 to 29.5 per cent in 2019. Recent research by Philip Cross at the Fraser Institute reveals that Canada’s middle class holds proportionally more financial assets than the middle class in the United States. Cross goes on to argue that extreme inequality is a U.S. talking point that distorts Canadian policy debates. Bemoaning the evils of the millionaires and billionaires is fashionable, and this kind of economic populism has run rampant the past few years. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders exemplify top U.S. presidential contenders who have insisted the rich must “pay their fair share.” It appears to be working. A poll of 1,660 Canadians by Abacus Data revealed that 79 per cent supported a one per cent wealth tax on fortunes of $20 million and larger. As for political parties, 93 per cent of Bloc

Quebecois supporters polled, 87 per cent of NDP, 86 per cent of Liberals, and even 64 per cent of Conservatives are in favour of the tax. Such unanimous support from supporters of all parties for a tax increase is uncommon. David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, explains that “raising taxes on the rich and highly profitable corporations is one of the few ideas that both progressives and right populists agree on.”

The mirage of a wealth tax The problem with a wealth tax, as Cross argues, is that it is an illusory pot of gold. The proposed wealth tax would raise “0.2 per cent of GDP, a drop in the bucket compared with this year’s deficit of over 16 per cent.” A wealth tax of one per cent may seem insignificant but Alan Viard, an economist at the American Enterprise Institute, explains the compounding deleterious effects. Unlike income taxes, which apply to income flows, wealth taxes compound over time. For instance, a household with constant wealth over a decade would end up paying 10 per cent. So you can count on families and firms looking for ways to shift capital assets out of Canada to avoid a long-term drain. Research from the Cato Institute has found that targeting wealth for higher taxation is often counterproductive. In Europe, for example, imposing a wealth tax was expensive to implement, generated little revenue,

and encouraged avoidance, evasion and brain drain. The negative implications were so large that the number of European countries with annual wealth taxes has decreased from 12 in 1990 to three today. Ireland, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Germany, France and the Netherlands have all repealed their wealth taxes. It is worth remembering that the income tax in Canada was introduced only as a temporary measure to deal with government debt incurred from the First World War. Over 100 years later, the government appetite for the income tax has only grown and little could be more decidedly permanent. Does anyone believe a new wealth tax would be a once-only shakedown? If its revenue fell short of the funding needed for social and health-care programs, would the rate not get bumped up to two or three per cent of wealth? Would politicians not target those with net worth of $1 million or less? Given human nature, we naturally tend to rationalize taxes on others. However, the arithmetic is undeniable: we can’t solve our problems by soaking the rich. Besides, Canadians would be wise to ponder a question posed by the economist Thomas Sowell: “What exactly is your ‘fair share’ of what someone else has worked for?” The trajectory of any kind of wealth tax is certain to parallel the history of our income tax – a permanent and increasing one. The result would inevitably be a distressed economy and a hollowed-out middle class becoming more real than imagined. Though inconsequential in the voting booth, their impact on the Canadian economy is all-important. No one will rush to defend this loathed minority. However, their number includes some of our brightest and best, innovators, wealth creators and job creators vital to our economy. These people and corporations, if so inclined, can easily move their talents and their capital out of Canada to friendlier jurisdictions. You do not make a poor man rich by making a rich man poor. Caitlin Rose Morgante is a research associate with the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, a Boston University economics student, and currently enrolled in an internship at Econ Americas.

PageA16 – MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021

Special Feature

Three key elements to succeed in sales By David Fuller

Treat others the way you would like to be treated, know why you’re selling and put together a good plan that you’re willing and able to follow. Like many entrepreneurs and sales professionals, I’ve been selling since I was a teenager. Over the years, I’ve hawked worms, newspapers, pins, chocolate bars and books door to door, knives and lamps on street corners, vitamins and herbs in retail and online, and, eventually, advertising, as well as coaching services and training to companies. I think I’ve been pretty good at it. I love to sell because if I can get a transaction right, I’m matching a product or service with someone who’s pleased to make a welltimed, suitable purchase. While not everyone feels comfortable in sales, a career in sales can be very rewarding. Not only can you make a great living and provide for your family, the execution of successful sale can bring a sense of personal accomplishment and increased self-confidence. So what are the keys to being successful in sales? Treat others the way you would like to be treated There’s a sense of satisfaction when you develop a relationship with your customers by dealing honestly with them. In this way, we garner respect and people trust us. When there’s trust in a sales relationship, closing the sale is just a natural progression of respecting others and treating them just as we wish to be treated. Unfortunately, sales people have acquired a bad rap because of the odd disrespectful and inconsiderate sales individual.

my expenses and keep a roof over my head and that of my family. Having clarity about what you want is paramount to being successful in sales.

Know why you’re selling Without well-informed motivation, sales can be a struggle. My probabilities of success were best achieved when I clearly understood why I was in sales. Perhaps it was a goal I had set for myself for the use of the money. Many times, I had to sell goods or services to cover

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Plan or fail Many sales professionals fail because they don’t plan, or if they do plan, they don’t follow through on their plans. Making sales and hitting targets relies on having a plan and understanding the key tasks that determine success. Successful sales people should know the exact profit on an average sale and the necessary number of sales needed to hit their targets. This will determine the amount of activity necessary for success. If you think you need to make 100 calls a week to hit your targets that means you will have to do a minimum of 20 calls a day. Blocking time as well as being prepared and organized are keys to successful sales. A career in sales can be fun and rewarding, but it takes a positive mindset and the ability to enjoy challenges and create solutions. When we understand our reasons for selling, have a plan for success, and are ready and willing to treat others the way we would like to be treated, our sales career will take off. Dave Fuller, MBA, is an award winning business coach and a partner in the firm Pivotleader Inc.; Email dave@pivotleader.com

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MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021 – Page A17

Special Feature

Three things you can do to accomplish more in less time By David Fuller

Life’s too short to occupy most of it with frustration and busyness. Tackle the stress by prioritizing, delegating and meditating. Many of us feel crunched for time.

We think we could gain control if only we could get more done in less time. The good news is that there are strategies to help you feel in control and get more done in less time. Here are three things you can do: Plan with lists and priorities It might seem silly but many people don’t have a plan when they have to accomplish a large amount of work. This is why they feel overwhelmed. Analyzing the situation and developing a plan to get through your workload starts with listing all the tasks you need to do, putting a time estimate on them and prioritizing them. Once this is done, it’s much easier to come up with a strategy to get the most important tasks accomplished in a timely fashion. Brian Tracy, in his book Eat That Frog, talks about doing the most difficult tasks first. “If you eat a frog first thing in the morning, everything else seems easy.”

We have a variety of activities and tasks that seem to need our attention on a regular basis. Whether it’s getting kids to school, managing family activities, preparing meals, as well as getting our jobs done, sitting in on video meetings, or dealing with an ever-growing stream of emails and social media notifications. Just when we feel we’ve climbed one hill of work, another mountain range of tasks seems to face us. People feel overwhelmed and frustrated. They feel unable to control their daily affairs. It seems like we need to be working 20 hours a day. They just get to sleep, then wake up at 2 a.m. with their minds spinning, worrying about all they need to do the next day.

Delegate more As leaders, we often don’t delegate as much as we should and as a result we struggle to get work finished in a timely manner. We have a variety of reasons for this attitude, including: • a belief that no one does it as well as we do; • we don’t want to bother our staff with undesirable jobs; • we think it will take more time to train someone than to do it ourselves. Unfortunately, we can continue to come up with these excuses for years before we realize that our lives would be much easier if we trained someone to do these tasks. That would allow us to get more of the important jobs

done in less time. Take time to meditate While it might seem counterintuitive, taking time to think and meditate has been proven to help leaders be more productive. Henry Ford took regular breaks during the day where he would stop and think. Surprisingly, blocking time for this in your schedule will help you accomplish more in less time. Life’s too short and precious to occupy most of it in frustration and busyness. However, if we treat our tasks less haphazardly, with the intention of getting the important jobs done, we

will be less stressed. Setting priorities and avoiding distractions such as social media notifications and interruptions that waste our valuable time will help us to better acknowledge ourselves and our accomplishments. It’s possible to get more done in less time, but it takes concentration and disciplined leadership skills. Dave Fuller, MBA, is an award winning business coach; Email dave@pivotleader.com

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PageA18– MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021

Special Feature

COVID-19 - How taxes have changed! Article supplied by TaxTeam

COVID-19. The word that brings up so many different emotions, thoughts and perspectives. However, what many people may not know is that it also brings several new considerations when it comes to your personal tax return. Taxes this year will be significantly different for a large majority of Canadians, from new tax credits introduced, taxable CERB and various payments, and new ways to save significant amounts of tax. While a large majority of Canadians may be surprised to find out they owe taxes this year due to CERB, CRB and other government payments, there is something you can still do to reduce these taxes if you act quick and utilize all the potential new tax credits you are eligible for. Did you receive CERB, CRB, or similar payments in 2020? Here is what you NEED TO KNOW: CERB (Canada Emergency Response Benefit) recipients: The CERB payments will be reported as taxable income on your tax return, but there was NO tax deducted from these payments. So if your total income (not including CERB) is above $13,000 you may be required to pay back around 25% of the amount you received (or $500 for every $2,000 CERB payment received). If your total income for the year is above 48,500 this tax increases to approx. 33% (or $660 for every $2,000 CERB payment received). CRB (Canada Recovery Benefit) recipients: TIME SENSITIVE INFO for massive tax savings! If you received the $500/week CRB payments between Sept 27 to Dec 31, 2020 and your total income is above $38,000, you may be required to pay back SOME or ALL of the amount you received from CRB, plus you will be charged tax on whatever portion is not paid back. This is the equivalent of a tax rate between 63-67%-which is 15 - 20% higher than those in the highest tax bracket!!! However, many may not realize that this high tax rate/payback can be reduced or eliminated with the strategic use of RRSP’s. For example, if a CRB recipient received $4,000 of CRB payments (8 weeks) and has an additional $38,000 of income from other sources, they would be required to pay back ½ of their CRB payment ($2,000) plus $510 tax on the remaining CRB income for a total tax of $2,510 on the $4,000 received (63% tax). However, if this same individual used some savings (or got a short term loan) to purchase an RRSP of $4,000 before March 1, 2021, they would

save the 63% tax on their 2020 tax return. They could then withdraw the $4,000 RRSP in Mid-March to repay their savings/loan. This RRSP withdraw would be included in income on their 2021 tax return, which at the same level of income would result in approx. 25% tax ($1,000). This strategy results in a total tax savings of approx. 37-42% (or $1,510 in our example)!! Seek advice from a professional accountant or financial advisor to see if these strategies would be effective or appropriate in your situation. Did you WORK FROM HOME in 2020? Approx. 40% of Canadians found themselves working from home for a period of time during the pandemic. New in 2020, there is an easy way to calculate and claim home office expenses on your tax return. If you were an employee (receive a T4) and were required to work from home for at least 4 consecutive weeks (either part time or full time), you may be eligible to claim a tax credit of $2/day to a maximum of $400 total to help offset your home office expenses – and you don’t need to produce any receipts! There are two other methods to claim expenses this year: 1) a simplified employment expense form T777S – this requires your employer to sign a T2200S form to allow you to claim both home office expenses as well as other employment expenses you may have incurred (not including vehicle). You will be required to produce receipts for this claim, and is typically more beneficial for those who rent their house. 2) a full regular employment expense claim – which requires receipts for all expenses and a signed T2200 form by your employer. See a professional accountant to determine which home office expense claim is applicable and most beneficial for your situation.

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Did the isolation time result in some Home Renovation Projects? If you did any renovations on your home starting Oct 1, 2020, or are thinking of doing some renovations, you need to be aware of the NEW Saskatchewan Home Renovation tax credit and start gathering your receipts now. Although there is nothing to claim right now on your 2020 taxes, you will want to start setting aside your home renovation receipts from October 1, 2020 to Dec 31, 2022. The total amount spent from Oct 1, 2020 to Dec 31, 2021 must exceed $1,000 up to a maximum of $12,000 and will be claimed on your 2021 tax return. Home renovations between Jan 1, 2022 to Dec 31, 2022 must be between $1,000 - $10,000 and will be claimed on your 2022 tax return. These expenses can save you up to 10.5% on your tax return, and will require receipts as proof. Our family situation has changed – now what? This past year has seen a significant increase in marital breakdowns. If you have children this can result in some complicated tax filings. The provincial child amount can only be claimed by one parent per child, and is typically claimed by the parent where the child resided as of Dec 31st. The eligible dependant credit can save you up to $3,031 if you are eligible to claim it for one of your children. Canada Child Benefit can be split between both parents in joint custody arrangements and your payment will be recalculated based on your individual income. There are also other things to consider, like who will claim which child for the carbon tax rebate, etc. Child tax credits claimed by single parents are one of the most commonly reviewed items by CRA. Make sure you have a tax professional helping you maximize these claims. Money’s tight, should I just do my own taxes? Should I use a tax professional or prepare my own taxes? One of the biggest considerations when people consider doing their own tax return is the perceived initial savings. Although the cost of a tax program from a big box store initially appears cheaper than going to a tax professional – the tax credits and strategies missed by the average person can cost you several hundred, and possibly even thousands of dollars in potential refund. For example, the average tax refund from a TaxTeam client in 2020 was over $320 higher than the national average. If you are looking for a tax professional to work for you and ensure you are not paying the government more than your fair share – speak to Mike and the team of tax experts at TaxTeam in Moose Jaw or any other reputable tax firm. We work hard to make sure you pay the least amount of tax by utilizing all the many tax credits available. Plus, we provide full support with CRA if they have any questions about your return.

MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021 – Page A19

Special Feature

How to take financial control in the months ahead Several regions of Canada are in another COVID-19 lockdown situation amid the recent pandemic wave, meaning more economic hardship for many of us. Almost 40% of Canadians have already said that their bank accounts cannot handle a financial emergency, so this round of lockdowns has been particularly frightening. Nonetheless, Canada has authorized the use of a COVID-19 vaccine, meaning there’s light at the end of the pandemic tunnel in 2021. As we approach the new year, here are a few ways you can plan for the year ahead, according to Certified Financial Planner® professionals across Canada: • Prepare a budget and stick to it • Build up your emergency savings • Contribute to your RRSP • Be prepared for the worst

An easy tip is to jot down in a notebook, or log on your phone, every purchase you make, as it happens. Then use a spreadsheet to track your spending — there are lots of online offerings — and sort them into two categories: fixed costs like rent and your heating bill, and discretionary costs like clothing and restaurant meals. Even log what you do with the cash you take out of the bank machine. It will probably take several weeks to really know how much is being spent in every category, and then you can figure out where to find savings.

Review your spending, establish a monthly budget and stick to it If you’re living paycheque-to-paycheque, it’s time to figure out where your money’s going and what’s eating up your income. Eliminate whatever you can — maybe it’s your cable subscription, or too many takeout orders — so that you’re not financially strapped every month. Take those savings and put them in your emergency fund.

Continue to put money into your retirement savings Consider increasing your RRSP contributions. That way, if you face a possible layoff, you’ll at least have some money put aside that will help boost your retirement savings and potentially provide you with a tax refund this spring. That could be used to pay down any debt you’ve accumulated — or you could use it to immediately fund your RRSP for next year. Sit down with someone with a Certified Financial

Increase your emergency fund savings Save as much as possible in case of an impending layoff or closing at your employer during the pandemic and until vaccinations are widely available. With the holiday season just behind us, which means giving serious consideration to how much money you’ve spent on gifts this year. Ideally, such a fund should cover a minimum of three to six months of your personal expenses, but every little bit helps right now. The goal is to set up automatic withdrawals on pay day so that the money immediately gets transferred. This way you’re not tempted to spend it in other ways.

Planner certification or Qualified Associate Financial Planner™ certification to figure out the best way to do so. Diversifying your portfolio can help avoid severe losses in the event of a market crash, and if you’re carrying credit card balances forward each month — paying your debt off will increase your ability to save. Instead of paying interest and monthly credit card payments, use the additional money to put money in your emergency fund. Be financially prepared If the pandemic has had one silver lining in terms of household finances, it’s that Canadians are paying much closer attention to their bank accounts now, FP Canada research has shown. That’s a positive trend that Canadians should sustain in the coming year. As 2021 begins, preparing for the unknown when it comes to your finances is a smart thing to do. With a financial plan in place, the unexpected is built into your outlook, and you can better manage issues that may come your way. Keep your financial goals top of mind and stick to the plans you set out for yourself to meet them. Finances are a huge source of stress for Canadians even in the best of times, so taking control of them during crises like the enduring COVID-19 pandemic will be beneficial on multiple fronts. Working with a professional to get your financial house in order will also help you head into this year with more confidence in your ability to withstand financial stresses in the years ahead. *https://www.financialplanningforcanadians.ca/ articles/looking-towards-2021

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Because your children deserve every advantage Canadian Scholarship Trust Plan is only sold by Prospectus. Please see the Prospectus for more detailed information. Copies may be obtained from www.cst.org or by calling 1 Minimum contribution is the greater of $9.50 per month or 1/10th of a unit. 2 2020 Canadian Scholarship Trust Plans Audited Financial Statements.3 Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation, 2020. TM CST is a trademark of the Canadian Scholarship Trust Foundation. MH1135 ( 2021-02)

PageA20 – MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021

Special Feature

10 ways to put your tax refund to work Article supplied by Gale Toews Private Wealth Management of Raymond James

The annual spring ritual is already underway - the mailout of tax-refund cheques to millions of Canadians. The average refund for 2018 was $1,740*-not a huge windfall, but still a sum that would be a shame to fritter away. As you know, your tax refund is not found money-it was your money all along that you lent Ottawa interest-free for the year. It’s money that could go back to work for you. Here are some suggestions: 1. Contribute to your Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) Make a lump sum payment contribution for the current tax year. Not only will it ease the pressure when next RRSP season rolls around, but the sooner you make your annual contribution, the sooner it starts compounding in a tax-sheltered environment. Or, depending on your situation, you may opt to “top up” and make the maximum annual contribution possible or “catch up” by using up any carryforward room. If you borrowed money to make an RRSP contribution last year, use your refund to help pay down the loan. You will save on interest charges (which are not tax deductible) and free up the money that would otherwise go to your monthly loan payments. Use those funds instead to make monthly contributions to your RRSP for the current tax year. If you are in a higher marginal tax rate than your spouse, another option is to contribute to a spousal RRSP. You receive an immediate tax deduction on the contribution and can potentially reduce future income taxes in retirement if your spouse withdraws the funds at a lower marginal tax rate. 2. Pay down your mortgage Whether it’s best to contribute to your RRSP or pay down your mortgage depends on a number of factors, including the remaining mortgage term, years to retirement, future rate of investment return and your marginal tax rate. Sometimes it just “feels right” to pay down your mortgage. Do it often enough and your mortgage payments will be reduced, making it easier to fund regular RRSP contributions. 3. Pay down debt If you have consumer debt and other non-deductible loans, now is a good time to pay them off. Start with the highest cost first, such as credit cards with double-digit interest rates. 4. Top up an RESP A Registered Education Savings Plan is a great way to save for your child or grandchild’s post-secondary education and realize potential tax savings. You can also take advantage of the Canadian Education Savings Grant, which matches 20% on up to $2,500 of your annual RESP contributions, subject to a maximum CESG of $7,200. 5. Invest outside your RRSP If your RRSPs and RESPs are maxed out, now could be a good time to consider alternative investment strategies, such as a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) contribution, that will allow you to accumulate additional tax-sheltered savings. 6. Beef up your emergency fund Every household should have an emergency fund that’s sufficient to cover three to six months’ worth of expenses in an easily accessible, liquid investment such as a money market fund. If yours doesn’t measure up, your tax refund can give it a needed boost.

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7. Avoid the splurge urge Unless you really need to, avoid the urge to “invest” in depreciable assets such as a new car or some other toy. Even small amounts invested over the long term can help you achieve your financial goals. 8. Give to charity Share your windfall by making a charitable donation. It’s a win-win situation. You not only contribute to a good cause, but also receive an income tax credit that can be used to offset your personal taxes. 9. Buy some peace of mind While no one likes to think about being stricken by a serious disease or injury, the best time to protect yourself against the potentially devastating financial effect that a critical illness could have upon your investment portfolio is while you’re still healthy. You may want to investigate using your refund to purchase critical illness insurance and avoid the possibility of having to dip into your RRSP or liquidate some holdings should the unthinkable happen. 10. Don’t let it happen again A tax refund is actually a repayment of an interest-free loan that you made to the government by overpaying your taxes. That’s not the best financial planning strategy. Resolve not to receive a tax refund next year by starting year-round tax planning today. For example, if you make regular RRSP contributions, or if you make your entire contribution early in the year, you can apply to the CRA via your employer to have your withholding tax reduced. This will improve your monthly cash flow so you can get your money working in your best interest sooner and more effectively. Remember, your personal finances are unique to you. Only a properly laid out financial plan can help you figure out what may be the best avenue. Contact your financial advisor today to ask about comprehensive financial planning. If you would like more information please contact Gale Toews, Financial Advisor, at Gale Toews Private Wealth Management of Raymond James Ltd. at (306)6934430. *Source: CRA.Individual income tax return statistics for the 2019 tax-filing season Raymond James advisors are not tax advisors and we recommend that clients seek independent advice from a professional advisor on tax-related matters. Securitiesrelated products and services are offered through Raymond James Ltd., Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Raymond James Financial Planning Ltd., which is not a Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

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MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021 – Page A21

Special Feature

Consider working with a financial advisor Article supplied by Leipert Financial

Humans are hard-wired to make emotional money decisions. Often, your choices don’t align with your best interests. Have you ever spent too much money during a sale? Or, have you sold investments during a market downturn? If so, you are not alone.

in your family’s financial position. By setting mutually-agreed upon goals, together you can focus on which areas to improve. You will agree on who handles what and revisit your goals often. One of the biggest benefits of having a financial plan is being able to make changes over time. Once you have a feel for your family’s cash flow, you can look at bigger financial goals. Buying a home, saving for college and retirement, or investing. These are steps you do not have to tackle alone. Contacting a professional financial advisor is a great step. We are here to help. What your financial plan may include Now that you know the benefits of having a financial plan, you may be curious what yours may include.

Consider working with a financial advisor. The benefits of financial planning may include more confidence, stability, and peace of mind. If you’re eager to learn more about the benefits of having a financial plan — at Leipert Financial Group, we’ve got you covered.

Every financial plan looks different. Depending on your family’s needs, you may be looking for advice in only a few areas. Or, you may prefer a comprehensive financial plan for all areas of your financial life.

What are the benefits of having a financial plan? Financial planning isn’t only for affluent families or couples nearing retirement. You are never “too young” or “too broke” for financial advice. There are many benefits of financial planning for people at all levels of income and savings. There is value in the process for everyone. Creating a plan will help highlight gaps and strengths

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A comprehensive plan may include — but isn’t limited to — analysis and advice in these areas:

• • • • • • • •

Cash flow and budgeting Education planning Insurance and risk management Employee benefits Investing Tax planning Retirement planning Estate planning

For details on how to get started, or to book an introductory call, contact Leipert Financial Group at 306-693-6588.

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PageA22 – MOOSE JAW EXPRESS.COM – Financial Guide 2021

Special Feature

What’s your number? Taking a different look at retirement Article supplied by Gale Toews Private Wealth Management of Raymond James

In past years, much has been made of retirement savings plans designed to generate a high percentage – as much as 80 percent – of an investor’s pre-retirement working income. This assumes that your retirement spending will be a slightly lesser version of your peak earning years. But will that be the case? Given a severe market decline, like the lows of 2008, that figure may be too high, either as an attainable target or as a realistic goal. More importantly, it may not be necessary. Recent surveys indicate that boomers are now looking for a simpler, less expensive retirement lifestyle than the previous generation. As a result, some investors are considering another costing approach for their retirement planning, in which they establish a realistic budget of how much they will need to retire comfortably. This figure is then used to design an appropriate investment and savings plan. This new approach changes the focus from simply replacing past income to anticipating your future expenses and the costs of living in a comfortable retirement lifestyle. This approach also helps retirees identify expenditures that will be eliminated or reduced in the retirement years. Where Does the Money Go? Now and Then Making a list of current living expenses is a good way to begin the planning process. Assume that basic monthly household and living costs will be roughly the same in retirement. Inflation is a long-term factor to consider, and at 2.5 percent, most household costs will double within 30 years. This can be offset by investments that keep pace with inflation as well as indexed retirement income from the Canada Pension Plan. A spending forecast should anticipate new costs. These include medical expenses no longer covered by the employer, travel and vacation plans, and other lifestyle considerations. Also, this exercise should reveal areas where living costs and expenses will come down. A mortgage-free retirement alone can substantially reduce the cost of living in retirement. Your spending budget will also be free of many family savings and investment contributions that will decline or disappear as household expenses after retirement.

Where Will the Money Come from? Knowing what it’s going to cost to live in retirement is a helpful guide that shows approximately what cash requirements you’ll need when you get there (in aftertax dollars) and how much should be saved and invested to generate the income necessary to meet that financial goal. In that regard, would-be retirees can produce an income stream by combining a variety of retirement resources: Canada Pension Plan and Old Age Security Most working Canadians are already saving for their retirement through their payroll deductions to these government programs. The standard age for beginning to receive CPP is the month after your 65th birthday. However, you can take a reduced pension as early as age 60 or begin receiving an increased pension after 65. At age 65 individuals can apply for as much as $1,175.83 (2020) in monthly income from the CPP and up to an additional $613.53 (2020) in monthly OAS payments. This retirement income is taxable and inflation adjusted. Registered Retirement Savings Plans After the age of 71, your RRSP is usually rolled over into an annuity or a registered retirement income fund (RRIF). An annual withdrawal from the fund is mandatory and fully taxable. A RRIF can be managed like any investment portfolio throughout retirement to replace a portion of the withdrawn funds and keep ahead of inflation. Non-Registered Savings and Investments Interest income, dividend income, and capital gains are all taxed at the same rate, although capital gains are subject to 50% inclusion rates, and Canadian dividends are grossed up and receive a tax credit based on whether they are eligible or ineligible dividends. Tax-Free Savings Accounts The $6,000-a-year savings and investment account can be used to invest in a variety of eligible securities. Principal and investment returns can accumulate and grow and be withdrawn without tax. Annuities Annuities now offer flexible withdrawal rates, some access to capital, and will guarantee either a set or variable income for life depending on the plan. Some have investment growth features and tax-efficient advantages. Think Ahead: Get Professional Planning Advice For many people planning for their retirement, the big question is “How much will I need?” That is where your savings and investment planning start to take shape. And there are a variety of savings and investment options to choose from. Your financial advisor can become a valuable person to talk with about putting in place a retirement plan that can add security and peace-of-mind to your future. If you would like more information, please contact Financial Advisor Gale Toews at Gale Toews Private Wealth Management of Raymond James Ltd. at (306)693-4430.

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Statistics and factual data and other information are from source Raymond James Ltd. (RJL) believes to be reliable, but their accuracy cannot be guaranteed. Information is furnished on the basis and understanding that RJL is to be under no liability whatsoever in respect thereof. It is provided as a general source of information and should not be construed as an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any product and should not be considered tax advice. Raymond James advisors are not tax advisors and we recommend that clients seek independent advice from a professional advisor on taxrelated matters. Securities-related products and services are offered through Raymond James Ltd., Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Insurance products and services are offered through Raymond James Financial Planning Ltd., which is not a Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A23

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PAGE A24 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

SaskPower shares tips on reducing energy consumption during frigid weather Larissa Kurz

The recent cold snap in Saskatchewan has brought frigid temperatures to SaskPower customers across the province, and likely made a lot of people wonder what their electricity bills may look like after the cold temperatures warm up. Electricity use has increased by 119 megawatts (MW) since the temperatures first dropped last week, said a SaskPower press release. During this time, provincial usage has reached as high as 3,692 MW — very close to the province’s record peak usage of 3,792 MW reached on Dec. 29, 2017. Because of the continued cold snap dominating the upcoming forecast, SaskPower offered a few tips to customers that may help them reduce power consumption during this kind of weather. The largest power consumers in a home are typically large appliances like ovens, washing machines and clothes dryers, for example. SaskPower recommends using these appliances as efficiently as possible — running full loads of laundry, hanging clothes to dry if possible,

and avoiding opening the oven when cooking to keep the set temperature high. For those thinking ahead to future power-savings, SaskPower also noted that appliances with the Energy Star logo are more efficient and can also reduce electricity usage for a household. Heating and cooling efforts actually make up about 22 per cent of an average household’s power consumption, said SaskPower, which means adjusting the thermostat can play a big role in how much electricity is being used throughout the day. Using a programmable thermostat is the most efficient way to ensure you’re heating your home at optimal times, but even just lowering the thermostat as little as two to four degrees at night can make a difference. Ensuring all doors and windows are sealed tight against drafts can also go a long way in maximizing your heating system’s efficiency. Another 20 per cent of a household’s power consumption can be attributed to electronic devices that are plugged in but not necessarily always in use. Unplugging things like

game consoles, phone chargers or even turning off computers or stereos when not in use can reduce that power usage. Even changing some simple habits can reduce power usage — like turning lights off when not in use, said SaskPower. Changing lightbulbs to LEB bulbs can also make a big impact, as LED bulbs use 80 per cent less electricity and last much longer than incandescent bulbs. Lastly, with temperatures dipping so extremely low, it's likely that everyone is plugging their vehicles in much more often than usual — and rightly so. However, the block heater in a vehicle actually only needs to be plugged in for about four hours before use to be beneficial, so SaskPower recommends installing a block heater timer. This device can reduce unnecessary electricity use and save a household roughly $30 per year, while still allowing drivers to still avoid both the cold and the dreaded no-start. For more tips from SaskPower on saving electricity, visit saskpower.com/efficiency-programs-and-tips.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A25

LETTERS TO THE

EDITOR

Re: Canine Distemper Virus Richard Dowson wrote a very interesting welcome article about the Canine Distemper Virus being the cause of MS and possibly several horrid diseases. Because of the nature of my work, I was made aware of the Canine Distemper Virus being a possibility (a strong one) as the cause of MS; now we know it is; Hallelujah! But Richard says under the subtitled “The Old Way of Vaccine Development”… “In very simplistic terms, Dr. Edward Jenner, known for developing the Smallpox Vaccine, found a survivor of smallpox who donated antigen rich blood (serum) that was diluted, purified and injected into another person giving that person antibodies, making them immune to smallpox. Of course it is more complex that that, but you get the idea.” …this is quite a different story than the one I was taught. I was taught the cowpox version (see excerpt from the Encyclopedia Britannica) below p. 133 Macropedia Vol 10 15th edition. “The story of the great breakthrough is well-known. In May, 1796 Jenner found a young dairymaid, Sarah Nelmes, who had fresh cowpox lesions on her finger. On May 14, using matter from Sarah’s lesions, he inoculated an eight-year-old boy, James Phipps, who promptly developed a slight fever and a low grade lesion. On July 1 Jenner inoculated the boy again, this time with smallpox matter. No disease developed; protection was complete. “Jenner, in 1978, having added further cases, published privately a slender book entitled An Inquiry into the Causes and Effects of the Variolae Vaccinae, a Disease… Know by the Name of Cow Pox. “The reaction to the publication was not immediately favourable. Jenner went to London seeking volunteers for vaccination but, in a stay of three months, was not successful. In London, inoculation became popularized through the activities of others, particularly the surgeon Henry Cline,

Send your letters to the editor to: letters@mjvexpress.com or 888-241-5291

All columns, letters to the editor and editorials are solely the personal opinions of the writers themselves and not necessarily the opinions of The Moose Jaw Express.

to whom Jenner had given some of the inoculant, and doctors George Pearson and William Woodville. Difficulties arose, some of them quite unpleasant: Pearson tried to take credit away from Jenner; and Woodville, a physician in a smallpox hospital, contaminated the cowpox matter with smallpox virus. “But the procedure rapidly proved its value, and Jenner became intensely active, promoting the cause of vaccination. The procedure spread rapidly to the Continent, then to America, and soon was carried around the world. “Complications were many. Vaccination seemed simple, but the vast number of persons who practiced it did not necessarily follow the procedure that Jenner had recommended, and deliberate or unconscious innovations often impaired the effectiveness. Pure cowpox vaccine was not always easy to obtain, not was it easy to preserve or transmit. Furthermore, the biological factors that produce immunity were not yet understood; much information had to be gathered, and a great many mistakes made before a fully effective procedure could be developed, even on an empirical basis. “Despite errors and occasional chicanery, the process of vaccination spread rapidly and the death rate from smallpox plunged. Jenner, although he received world-wide recognition and many honours, made no attempt to enrich himself through his discovery and actually devoted so much time to the cause of vaccination that his private practice and his personal affairs suffered severely. In 1802, Parliament voted him a sum of 10,000 pounds and in 1806 a further sum of 20,000 pounds. “Jenner not only received honours bur also aroused opposition and found himself subjected to attacks and calumny.” My question: Has new historical research proven the milkmaid, cowpox version wrong? Kind regards, Stewart Godfrey

Re: MooseJawExpress.com January 20/21. Page A13 – “Local resident harassed over American flag licence plate” I was shocked and alarmed to read about the incident reported in the above article. The narrow-minded, big-mouthed, bigoted, bullying jerk (who seems to be afflicted with “TDS” – “Trump Derangement Syndrome”) who accosted Mr. Schick over his license plate (simply an American flag) is fortunate that Mr. Schick is the mild-mannered gentleman he is. A “lesser gentleman” may have reacted by forcing the ignorant bully to swallow his words – and his teeth and his tongue! What if the diminutive Mrs. Schick had been driving the car? How “big” is this bully? I’m concerned. Did the City Police question

Re: CUSTOMER SERVICE:

Safeway Corporate Headquarters regarding local Safeway Store in Moose Jaw, Sk. I recently visited the [Safeway store] in Moose Jaw. When I entered I was told I have to push a cart around even if I go to the pharmacy or for a coffee. I asked ‘why?’ and was told this was policy. After taking the cart in and leaving it inside, I proceeded to pharmacy. Shortly after, an employee began shouting and running for me to stop and use the cart. Once again, I asked ‘why?’ and was told this is regulations. I explained this is crazy. She said I must take the cart or leave the store. Without a meaningful reason, I will not push an empty grocery cart around. Feeling shaken and uneasy, I decided I must leave this Safeway Store. I am 74 years old and live in an Old Folks’ Home. This is a very challenging time for all seniors and elderly. As I left the till with a small counter purchase, another employee with a clip board and pen waited for me and said I must take a cart and push it out the door. Once again, I asked ‘why?’ Answer: It is policy. She then says I should speak to the manager. Waiting at the entrance, I noticed someone staring at me. I approached him and he began speaking very loud in an intimidating tone and manner. He became very rude and disrespectful. He says, you speak to me and no one else because I am the owner. Some seniors are unable to push a cart. Sone have mobility problems. Some come to the store for pharmacy or to have a coffee. The owner now says I need a cart so he could count how many people are in the store. He

this “fine” individual over his actions and at least caution him about what constitutes “common assault” and “threatening” under Canada’s Criminal Code? If not, why not? If this shameful incident had involved a member of one of a couple of the tiny but perpetually-victimized special-interest groups in your “Friendly City” does anyone doubt that a “hate crime” charge would have been laid and the case taken to the Supreme court, if necessary, to get justice and “closure” for the victim (at taxpayers’ expense, of course!)? Shouldn’t he apologize, at the very least? Shame! Moose Jaw, “the Holey City,” in which “holes” of many kinds abound and too many Moose Javians don’t seem to care. What a pity! Yours sincerely, E. Scheller says, “We count carts not customers.” I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. I stated, ‘this is crazy!’ He says, “I am the owner and I run my own store.” I felt threatened, as he continued in a loud tone and his very large stature. (I am at least 100 lbs smaller and a foot shorter than the owner.) I have limited function and movement. He continued shouting and told me to get out of the store. He followed me to the exit and I left. By now, I was terrified. I couldn’t believe his conduct and behavior. This owner acted more as a bouncer – enforcer than a responsible intelligent person. I felt I was dealing with a cult; the way the owner and employees spoke was unbelievable! No other store that I know of counts shopping carts instead of customers. Safeways values carts more than customers! It is ridiculous for anyone to push an empty shopping cart around a store. What is going on? It was disgraceful for Safeway and this owner to pick on a senior. There are many elderly people in the area. You should be ashamed of yourself! The [Moose Jaw Safeway store] owner tried to bait me into a confrontation! I would like to know the following: 1. This policy of counting carts and not customers. Is this a Safeway corporate policy, province wide or even country wide? 2. If this owner acted on his own policy, does Safeway agree with counting carts instead of customers? 3. Does Safeway agree that everyone must push a shopping cart even if they are only going to pharmacy or for coffee? I await your reply. Yours truly, James Danners, Moose Jaw, Sk.

Working in extreme cold presents challenges to city’s emergency personnel Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

This streak of cold weather is making life difficult for most people, but for Moose Jaw’s three emergency services departments, they must respond to calls no matter how frigid the temperature. Moose Jaw Fire Department The Moose Jaw Fire Department has been fortunate recently since it has not responded to many “calls of significance,” said Fire Chief Rod Montgomery. However, the situation changes when firefighters are forced to attend to an incident. “Once you’re on scene, because we carry water, we have to be mindful of that. You may have to circulate your pumps to keep your water moving,” he continued. “If you’re running handlines and that, the big thing is to continue to make sure the water is flowing, so you can’t ever really shut anything down.” Most gear can withstand extreme temperatures, he noted. However, an “igloo effect” occurs because firefighters ice up when they get wet. It turns into a problem when they become soaked and cold underneath their gear. “Kind of during the heat of the moment — no pun intended — it can still form a barrier for you … it’s after you get out of the fire or the cold that it starts to create those issues,” Montgomery added. Since the cold can be “problematic” on-scene, the department will bring in an extra crew so that teams rotate quickly. It might also mean calling in a command vehicle

or city bus so firefighters can warm up or sending crews back to the fire hall to thaw. Firefighters must be mindful when opening and closing hydrants since those can freeze up, continued Montgomery. Sometimes those connections can crack, which forces the municipality to dig up an entire water line to replace the hydrant. Besides the on-scene issues, driving to an emergency can also be challenging. “Just taking the time and strive to arrive,” Montgomery said. “There’s no sense going too fast where you create a hazard that way.” Moose Jaw EMS Moose Jaw EMS doesn’t usually respond to many calls when people stay inside on cold days, but the organization has been busier than normal attending to sick residents or residents who think they have COVID-19 symptoms, said EMS Chief Kyle Sereda. The extreme cold makes responding challenging because personnel have to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) over their winter clothing, equipment that wasn’t meant to be worn on top of big snowsuits or ski pants, he continued. However, the crews have adapted well. “We try to expedite our time in the elements as well,” Sereda said. “We higher prioritize people who might be found outside, whereas under normal circumstances, someone who falls outside isn’t the highest priority, but

in this weather, it becomes the highest priority because of obviously the elements.” Sereda offered some tips to stay safe in extreme cold, such as re-evaluating whether you need to go out; ensuring your vehicle’s fuel tank is full; limiting the skin’s exposure to the cold; wearing layers; taking several warm-up breaks if working outside; having a charged cellphone; and telling people where you’re going. Moose Jaw Police Service The Moose Jaw Police Service understands that homelessness is a problem, so it works to support the health and safety of these less fortunate persons — especially in the winter — since this issue affects people regardless of race, colour or sex, said Staff Sgt. Randy Jesse. The police service also supports groups such as Riverside Mission in their efforts to help homeless residents. “Public safety is a huge concern for us, and we will never leave anyone out in the cold and will provide support when necessary,” he continued. In pre-pandemic times, the MJPS housed people in cells and let residents use the lobby as a warm-up shelter during cold weather when other space was unavailable. However, that has been impossible due to COVID-19. “During our regular patrols in extreme cold, we are always vigilant to watch for citizens (who) may need our assistance,” Jesse added, “and (so we) do our best to ensure their safety.”

PAGE A26 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

City Hall Council Notes NOT HAPPY - MAKE A COMPLAINT

If you have a viable complaint against the City of Moose Jaw, please make your voices known to the Ombudsman’s office in Saskatchewan. Ombudsman Saskatchewan promotes and protects fairness and integrity in the design and delivery of government services.

They take complaints about provincial government ministries, agencies, Crown corporations and many health entities. They also take complaints about municipal entities. Ombudsman Saskatchewan offices are located at 150 – 2401 Saskatchewan Drive Regina Sask. S4P 4H8. Back in July the

Ombudsman was Mary McFadyen; she can be reached by phone at the Regina office at (306)787-6211, Fax 306.7879090 or e-mail ombreg@ombudsman.sk.ca. Let them know how you feel and get them to investigate.

First three months on council have been interesting, challenging for new members Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

It’s been three months since the 2020 municipal election and Moose Jaw’s three new city councillors have learned more about the city’s inner workings than they even realized existed. Coun. Jamey Logan, Coun. Kim R. Robinson and Coun. Doug Blanc were elected during the Nov. 9 municipal election after 5,814 total voters cast their ballots. Logan received the most votes with 3,858 votes, followed by Robinson with 2,195 votes and Blanc with 2,132 votes. The Moose Jaw Express spoke with each councillor to get his opinion on how the first 90 days have gone. The first three months “It’s a heckuva lot more than I thought going in,” Logan said. “I knew it was a big job, but it’s a lot. There’s a lot to it and a lot more irons in the fire than I anticipated. But I’m getting my head around it now.” Being a new councillor has been a learning curve, but it’s been a good experience, said Blanc. He hopes that he has offered constructive comments during council’s discussions. “It has been a little more intense. We crammed a bunch of orientation in a little bit, so it was pretty busy,” echoed Robinson. “I think it’s good that they spend that much time orienting the new people.” Robinson added that he is settling into his role nicely since he listened more than he spoke during the first few meetings. A challenging financial task All three men agreed that approving the 2021 budget was challenging since it came right after the November election and was an almost overwhelming process. However, approving the 2022 budget should be easier since they now know more. “It’s a bit of an eye-opener, in that I wanted to hold the line (in 2021),” said Robinson, “but when you see the whole picture, it’s very difficult to be able to do that without looking forward to future infra-

Coun. Jamey Logan

Coun. Doug Blanc

Coun. Kim Robinson

structure needs.” Since the budget, Logan has enjoyed everything he has experienced, including the council team, speaking with residents, and learning more about the city’s inner workings. “I think a lot of people sit back and assume (that) you see the city, but you don’t realize how big it is and how many working parts there are to it,” he added. “So, just when I got to have a look at how broad that scope is, it was really surprising. I had no idea how big the machine was.” Blanc has also appreciated speaking with residents and with how quickly city hall has dealt with some concerns. Similarly, he has enjoyed learning about what each department does at city hall. Being on the ground and learning what’s happening in the city is enjoyable, including understanding how city hall works and the size of employee groups, said Robinson. He also thought this council has worked well together and has good camaraderie. A bridge over troubled waters Handling the Seventh Avenue Southwest bridge situation was interesting, especially since it has been a divisive issue and hit a nerve throughout the community, the

three councillors agreed. Blanc thought the structure needs to be addressed, even though it should have been fixed years ago. “Initially, I thought, ‘Well, this is an easy fix. Let’s just go in there and fix the bridge,’” said Robinson. “But once we got engineering involved — and there’s certainly a lot of feelings (where) residents have a vested interest — some of the costs involved were a bit of a surprise to me …” Other issues that have stood out for the councillors include snow removal, managing infrastructure, roads, maintaining city-own buildings, and the communications methods — print, digital, or radio — that council and city hall use to reach residents. “The more citizens are informed of what’s happening in the city, the better they can relate to the city council and the direction they would like us to see,” said Blanc. “It’s an improvement all the way around.” Future objectives Navigating the coronavirus pandemic — including supporting struggling residents — is the most pressing issue the community faces, the three councillors said, along with maintaining existing buildings and structures. For Robinson, he is looking forward to

helping the municipality with its economic recovery. This includes working with tourism and the downtown business association on an economic development strategy. “(There are) a number of interesting things that, if they come to fruition in Moose Jaw, would be great for us here,” he said, pointing to the geothermal project as one example. An enjoyable experience Working as a councillor has been enjoyable, said Logan, especially since he likes to have his “finger on the pulse” of what’s happening and can do that at the council table. Blanc has reached out to former councillors to ask them questions about past decisions to better understand those situations. Meanwhile, he believes the current council co-operates well. “It’s a little more difficult (to be a councillor) than I thought, but somebody said that it doesn’t matter what decision you make, half the residents will think you’re a genius and the other half think you’re an idiot,” Robinson said. “So you can’t please everybody. “But the entire mayor and council are there because we all think we can make a difference and that’s why we’re doing it.”

City starts new ticketing business to manage live events Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The City of Moose Jaw has launched a new ticketing business called SaskTix. ca that, in partnership with an American-based company, will manage every event at all entertainment and recreation venues here and potentially across the province. Paciolan, an Irvine, Calif.-based business that provides ticketing and marketing solutions for live entertainment, has teamed up with the municipality to power SaskTix.ca, according to a news release. The company provides comprehensive digital ticketing and marketing solutions for all events at Mosaic Place, the Moose Jaw Ford Curling Centre, the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre, the Mae Wilson Theatre and the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company. SaskTix.ca will take advantage of advanced mobile ticketing experiences that Paciolan will power, the release continued. Fans can purchase mobile tickets, have them delivered via text message, scan them upon entry with their phone,

or seamlessly transfer or exchange tickets for events they cannot attend. This contactless technology also enables fans to enter a venue safely without printing or touching paper-based tickets. The ability to print out tickets will likely be still available. This new ticketing system replaces Ticket Rocket, the New Zealand-based company that handled ticketing for Moose Jaw before it stopped making payments to the municipality and was summarily fired. The exhibition company does not hold many events that require tickets, but will attempt to work with Paciolan to use SaskTix.ca for any future activities, general manager George Fowler told the Moose Jaw Express. The annual fair is the one event where the Midway operator produc-

es — and requires — physical tickets. “Going forward — I don’t know if there will be a fair this year or not — it would be something we could look at, that maybe we could use the tickets that could be produced out of that (SaskTix.ca) system, rather than (the Midway operator’s) tickets,” Fowler said. The general manager added that the exhibition company will work through the new kinks of the system and attempt to support it as much as possible. Spectra Venue Management Services, which oversees Mosaic Place, is excited to bring online the new ticketing business to serve Moose and the surrounding area, Ryan MacIvor, general manager of Spectra Venue Management Services and SaskTix.ca, said in the news release. Pa-

ciolan is a great fit for Spectra’s business model, while fans will enjoy this advanced ticketing and marketing technology. The California company has a proven track record with many venues across Canada and North America, so the city looks forward to using this technology to provide a state-of-the-art experience for fans, the news release said. The municipality could also share this ticketing and marketing software throughout Saskatchewan, including with sports groups, festivals, theatres and any events that require a safe, secure and locally-backed platform to assist their ticketing functions. Paciolan is excited to work with Moose Jaw and Spectra to offer a higher experience for fans, said president/CEO Kim Damron. The company looks forward to working closely with the SaskTix.ca team to re-engage the community through customized ticketing and marketing solutions for years to come.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A27

Police seize cocaine worth $42K during drug bust on South Hill Moose Jaw Express staff

The Moose Jaw Police Service conducted a drug bust recently that ensured that a small amount of cocaine wouldn’t reach the community’s streets. According to a news release, the police service executed a search warrant on Feb. 6 at a residence on South Hill in relation to an ongoing drug bust. Police located about 15

ounces of cocaine with a street value of $42,000. They also seized more than $83,000 in Canadian currency. Police arrested Moose Jaw resident Mitch Schoffer, 38, without incident during the investigation. They charged him with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and proceeds of crime over $5,000.

Schoffer appeared in Moose Jaw provincial court on Feb. 9, where he was released on $5,000 bail and was ordered to appear again in court in early March. Police continue to investigate.

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division Contest encourages students to travel the world through reading Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express While it’s currently not possible to travel the world due to the pandemic, that hasn’t stopped some students from learning about new places at home through exciting and informative books. Not only are the students in Holy Trinity Catholic School Division taking imaginary rides through the pages and building their literacy skills, but they are also competing for prizes, as part of this year’s Battle of the Books. The division has used this yearly event to bring together its readers to celebrate great books with family and friends. The pandemic challenged division administration to find new and innovative ways to engage students and families and build their excitement about reading, explained learning consultant Stacey Moser. Schools recently celebrated Family Literacy Day, which had the theme of “Travel The World Together!” Holy Trinity launched its adapted multi-week Battle of the Books contest during this provincial activity. “Even though we may not be doing a lot of travelling this year, we are still able to explore new worlds, meet new characters and go on exciting adventures by getting lost in a great book,” she said. “We know the love of reading begins at home, so this year, HTCSD’s reading initiative wanted to invite families to snuggle up with a great book.” There are dozens of books that students can read as part

of the contest. The division office added extra copies to school libraries, while families were also encouraged to access them on digital platforms Libby and Hoopla or through the public libraries in Moose Jaw and Swift Current. As part of the reading challenge, kids have been encouraged to read a book, love it, complete an online activity about what they read, and then submit a secret code to then receive a stamp in their digital passport, Moser

explained. Thanks to the SaskTel Pioneers’ efforts to support young readers, each stamp enters students into a draw to win more books at home. This includes books that are autographed by Bill Nye the Science Guy. On the web page of the division’s reading initiative — aptly named Let’s Travel The World Together — there is a link to each book’s online activity, as well as a QR code in the back of the books in the libraries. “We hope students and families will have fun reading the (books) and completing the activities together. Our hope is that, through this project, families and students may find a new favourite book, author or series,” said Moser. The division has received great responses about this contest since it launched the initiative a few weeks ago, and it has been exciting to see how quickly the secret codes are coming in, Moser continued. She pre-delivered some prizes to the schools — with support from the Pioneers and the Moose Jaw Literacy Network — while she then sends updates to those schools about who the weekly winners are. “The kids are having fun reading and completing the online activities … so we will keep this up all year if need be,” Moser added. “I told the schools that I will collect the books at the end of June, so hopefully everyone will get a chance to read any book they want. When our kids get excited about reading, everyone wins.”

Pandemic restrictions make training staff in First Aid difficult, Catholic division finds Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

While the inability to meet face-to-face has prevented some Catholic school division employees from renewing their CPR/First Aid licence, the organization is looking for ways to overcome that hurdle. Twelve school administrators, four teachers and five support staff throughout Holy Trinity Catholic School Division are trained to handle emergencies that require First Aid or Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Each school must have a minimum of two employees trained to deal with such issues. After three years, the employees’ licences expire, which means they must renew their skills and training sometime this school year. “The COVID and not being able to be face-to-face — or not (being sure of) what we can do in terms of the training — has caused our numbers not to be where they need,” explained Superintendent Ward Strueby. However, the division office has two employees whose licences are up-to-date — they trained with municipal staff last year — and who will conduct some training in March. “Having trained trainers within our division … allows us to be a lot more flexible,” he added. Besides physical First Aid, the division also plans to train school administrators this March in a new course called Mental Health First Aid, Strueby told the board of education during its February meeting. The division used grant funding from the Ministry of Education to train an employee in this area. That employee can use that knowledge to train others who interact with students regularly and who can assist youths if they are

struggling psychologically. Holy Trinity plans to train four school administrators, 16 teachers and 18 support staff in Mental Health First Aid. This information was part of a report that Strueby presented about the activities in the Student Services department. The report reviewed community partnerships, professional development and the supports available to students to address their needs. It also highlighted the work of the division’s psychologists, counsellors and speech-language pathologists. Student supports Students with learning or behaviour needs require support, which usually leads to the creation of an intervention and inclusion plan to address these concerns, Strueby said. In 2018-19, 69 students or 3.1 per cent of division enrolment, throughout Holy Trinity required intensive support plans. In 2019-20, 71 students, or three per cent of division enrolment, required an intensive support plan. In 2020-21, 68 students, or 2.9 per cent of division enrolment, require an intensive needs plan. Interestingly, Strueby continued, is that twice as many male students require an intensive needs plan compared to female students. For example, this year, 46 male students from pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 require a plan compared to 22 female students. This ratio has remained roughly the same for the past three school years, according to the data. Day programs Holy Trinity has partnered with Moose Jaw Families

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for Change for the past two years to have special needs Grade 12 students work at the Kinsmen Inclusion Centre to keep them connected or transition them into the community. “It has been wonderful, from our perspective, to see students interacting,” Strueby said. Last year, graduated special needs students from Vanier Collegiate attended the centre three days a week before the division increased that attendance to full-time, he continued. The centre currently supports five students with intellectual disabilities. However, the day program shut down in November and students now engage in virtual programming one to two days a week. Some activities include crafts, yoga, dance and book talks. English as an Additional Language (ESL) About 10 per cent of students from grades 1 to 12 have required extra support to develop their English skills during the past three school years, the report showed. This year, 10.6 per cent of students — or 249 youths — require some English help. The data also shows that more students from grades 1 to 7 require EAL help than high school students. This latter statistic worried Strueby, he explained, since he thought that high schools would be overwhelmed with youths who need EAL support. However, he discovered that students’ comprehension skills eventually catch up to their grade level, while the instructional strategies used to support EAL students were identical to those used with native English speakers.

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PAGE A28 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division Building relationships with MLAs the best way to advocate for schools, trustees hear Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The best way for Catholic school trustees to advocate for their division’s needs provincially is to continue to maintain contact with their area MLAs and build those relationships. That was the message that the board of education with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division received on Feb. 8 during an online Q&A forum with the MLAs whose constituencies are within the division boundaries. All four MLAs were present, including MLA Greg Lawrence with Moose Jaw Wakamow, MLA Tim McLeod with Moose Jaw North, MLA Everett Hindley in Swift Current and MLA Doug Steele from Shaunavon. Hindley is also the minister of rural and remote health. Advocacy efforts One question posed to the MLAs focused on how trustees could best advocate for their division’s infrastructure needs. “Through methods like this, or it doesn’t even have to be this formal,” said Hindley. “… we’re open and available to feedback, pretty much any time.” Hindley has been an MLA for a few years and has worked closely with Holy Trinity and the public division in Swift Current, he added. Sometimes the best thing to do is phone or email to remain updated and build that relationship. “I’ve been fortunate enough to have had a relationship with most of you in the past, and those that I haven’t met — there’s a couple of you — I would encourage you to reach out and bend my ear any time,” said McLeod, who was the board chair and a trustee for Prairie South School Division. “I quite enjoy having conversations with folks like yourself and hearing just what your perspectives are, what your needs are, what your thoughts are.” Trustees have already done a good job of advocating for

their division’s needs, said Lawrence. As examples, he pointed to the new joint-use school in Swift Current, the partnership with Prairie South to build a new joint-use school on South Hill, the continued push to renovate St. Margaret School in Moose Jaw and the continued efforts to build a new St. Michael School in West Park. Education funding A second question pertained to funding. MLAs heard that Holy Trinity received $1 million in pandemic funding, while its operational funding for this year was maintained at the same level as last year. However, next year, more money will be needed to help students who missed classes or experienced trauma during the pandemic. The provincial government is creating its next budget and will present the document on April 6 when the spring sitting begins, said Hindley. He noted that the pandemic has affected every ministry and agency equally, with education likely the second-most affected area after health care. “It’s going to be a different budget year and school year … . We’d be foolish to think that it’s going to be completely, exactly the same once we slowly get out of this thing,” he added. “There will be some lessons learned from this and some things that will have to be changed.” Importance of local boards A third question pertained to the importance of having locally elected school boards. It was noted that the governance line in Holy Trinity’s budget has amounted to 0.6 per cent and 0.5 per cent during the past two years. McLeod said that he was involved in this issue as a trustee and remains a firm advocate for locally elected boards. He pointed out that these groups “are a good pulse control” and better understand what is happening in their schools and communities. Having locally elected boards also connects well with

the Sask. Party’s ideology of smaller, less intrusive government, he added. Steele, Hindley and Lawrence all agreed that such groups are important and effective. Hindley noted that the province let school divisions develop their own backto-school plans for September, with many appreciating the ability to give input. Vaccines for educators Another question focused on whether the education sector would be given priority to receive vaccines. The province will give an update soon about the next phase of vaccinations since the plan has changed recently due to a lack of supply, said Hindley. He acknowledged that all four of them have received calls, texts and messages from people about when more vaccines are arriving. “It is tough coming up with a fair vaccination schedule,” said Steele. “But they have put a lot of effort into making this as far as possible.” Catholic education A fifth question pertained to the MLAs’ thoughts on Catholic education and its distinctiveness. It’s important to remember that Saskatchewan is one of the few places in Canada that recognizes this dual Catholic-Protestant (public) education system, so it should be continued, said McLeod. He pointed out that completing the joint-use school in Swift Current shows that the Catholic and public divisions can collaboratively accomplish things for students. Education is important since it helps build strong communities, said Steele. It doesn’t matter what type of education system it is since all it takes are strong leaders to meet students’ needs and accomplish initiatives. The next Holy Trinity board meeting is on March 15.

Holy Trinity competing against 27 other school divisions for project funding Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

With 27 school divisions in Saskatchewan, it could be difficult for Moose Jaw’s Catholic division to acquire the proper funding to pursue two major capital projects in the coming years. Holy Trinity Catholic School Division needs at least $3 million to renovate the exterior of St. Margaret School and replace six portable classrooms with either new units or one larger building with six classrooms, it also requires more than $20 million to build a new St. Michael School in the West Park neighbourhood. The deadline to submit the 2022-23 capital projects application is on Feb. 26. The division office has indicated to the Ministry of Education that the St. Margaret project is the main priority while a new St. Michael building is secondary. Trustees with the Catholic board of education discussed the projects during their February meeting. “They have been on record for a number of years (since about 2013),” Sandy Gessner, chief financial officer, said during the online meeting. “As we know, we received a capital project for Moose Jaw — the joint-use school on South Hill with Prairie South — and that kept the other two projects (delayed for years) … .” While St. Margaret requires exterior renovations, alNOTICE TO CREDITORS

Take notice that a Certificate of Intent to Dissolve the Moose Jaw Downtown and Soccer/Field-House Facilities, Inc. (“Corporation”) was issued on January 15, 2021; and that, 1. All claims against the assets of the Corporation must be duly verified by statutory declaration, and with particulars including the claim amount, basis and origination date, and valuation of security held, if any. 2. The deadline for submitting claims is February 23, 2021. 3. Any claims that are not received by the Corporation prior to the date set forth above will not be recognized. 4. Debtors are requested to pay all outstanding obligations no later than 30 days from the date of this notice. Payment should be made to the City of Moose Jaw. 5. All claims and payments must be sent to City of Moose Jaw, Office of the City Clerk, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 228 Main Street North, Moose Jaw, SK, S6H 3J8. Dated the 27th day of January 2021. Tracy Wittke Assistant City Clerk

most five acres of land is needed for a new St. Michael School, she continued. The division could renovate, but that would cost around $13 million, so “it would be more feasible” to replace the school instead. Trustee Alison Bradish wondered if the division office was confident about receiving the funding it requested, while she also inquired about what type of new addition St. Margaret required. It’s impossible to say what Holy Trinity could receive for either project since the ministry has to prioritize the hundreds of applications it receives from other divisions every year, answered Gessner, who noted the South Hill project was on the list for years before it was approved. Holy Trinity’s proposed projects will go into a queue, while the ministry will then use a formula to determine which project from which division should be No. 1. “We are not proceeding as if we have approval, but we hope to get approval,” she said. As for St. Margaret School, Gessner added that the school would be better served with six new classrooms inside one larger building versus installing six new portables. The board shouldn’t hold its breath for a new St. Michael building considering a new joint-use school is coming in 2024, echoed trustee Derek Hassen. The ministry will

likely eliminate the request quickly and prioritize other provincial projects. As for St. Margaret, however, time is against the continued use of those portables, he continued. The former board chair wondered if Moose Jaw’s two MLAs understood this project’s importance and lobbying the ministry for it. “This application is not frivolous, in any way, shape or form. This, very soon, will have to be a priority (and will become) an emergent need in this division,” Hassen added. The board office has done everything it can to make Moose Jaw’s MLAs aware of the issues there, replied Gessner. Division administration has spoken for several years about this project, while it has also addressed the urgency in the application process. “I think our advocacy has hit the limit of what we can do right now,” said education director Sean Chase. In the meantime, the division’s buildings team is looking at “some creative solutions” to address the issues at St. Margaret. Chase added that the division would drag ministry officials to that school to review it the next time they are in Moose Jaw for the South Hill project.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A29

Share your Team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Warriors trade goaltender Gould to Portland Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw Warriors general manager Alan Millar has made numerous trades over the years, but none have come with the kind of circumstances surrounding the team’s most recent deal. The Warriors announced last week that they had traded goaltender Brock Gould to the Portland Winterhawks in exchange for a conditional 2023 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft pick. The move was purely for altruistic reasons, as Gould is currently at home in Colorado Springs, Col. and would have gone through a 14-day quarantine on top of other precautions if he were to cross the border to play in Canada - and that’s if clearance was granted at all. As the Winterhawks play in the U.S. Division and there are few restrictions for travel between states, Gould will easily be able to report to Winterhawks training camp in preparation for their Mar. 19 start date. “This is all about the challenges we’ve had with the season, the restrictions at the border,” Millar said. “We would have been carrying three goaltenders with Gould, (Boston) Bilous and (Brett) Mirwald, so this made a lot of sense for us to get him to the U.S. Division and give

The Moose Jaw Warriors traded goaltender Brock Gould to the Portland Winterhawks on Wednesday morning. him the opportunity to play this season. That’s what the priority was, in the best interest of the player. Now we’ll see how the year goes and how things look when we head

into next year.” Gould, 19, joined the Warriors in the blockbuster deadline deal last January that sent Brayden Tracey and Adam Evanoff to the Victoria Royals. In 16 games with the rebuilding Warriors, Gould had a 5.75 goals against average and .876 save percentage. The deal leaves the Warriors with 19-year-old Boston Bilous and 17-year-old Brett Mirwald currently on their roster. Bilous is expected to emerge as the de facto starter for the squad when things get going on the 24-game season with Mirwald serving as his back-up. And that’s something Millar expects will lead to good news for the young prospect. “It’s certainly going to have an impact on the development of Brett Mirwald,” Millar said. “So he can come in, he’s a real good young 17-year-old goaltender and he can come in and play with a quality goalie and a quality person in Bilous and his development will be helped by getting as many games as he can. “(The trade) worked for Brock Gould with the U.S. matter and it worked for the development of a young goaltender with our club.”

Miller Express sign on Division I shortstop Conroy Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

lege baseball, too boot. The Western Canadian Baseball League squad recently announced the signing of Colin Conroy, an infielder and shortstop specialist out of Towson University, who play in the Division I Colonial Athletic Association. The 5-foot-8, 155-pound Orange, Ca. product served as the Tigers’ starting shortstop the past two seasons and has proven to be pretty decent with the leather. He put together a .926 fielding percentage in both his junior and senior seasons, committing only five errors on 68 chances in 2019 -- a season cut short due to injury after 16 games -- before throwing down the exact same numbers before the 2020 campaign was cancelled after 14 games due to the pandemic. At the plate, Conroy led Towson with a .288 average in 2019, scoring eight runs, hitting a double and recording a pair of runs batted in through 52 at bats. A season later, he hit .204, crossing the plate 11 times and knocking in seven. That included a six-game hitting streak

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Colin Conroy in action with the NCAA Division I Towson University Tigers. Towson University photo. The Moose Jaw Miller Express have added another NCAA Division I calibre player to their line-up -- and he brings plenty of experience at the highest level of col-

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from Feb. 22 to Mar. 4 that ended up being the Tigers’ longest of the season. Conroy was also second on the team with four stolen bases.

The Miller Express open the 2021 WCBL campaign on May 28 when they host the Medicine Hat Mavericks at Ross Wells Park.

PAGE A30 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Share your Team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

GAME ON! Warriors, East Division set to begin play on Mar. 12 Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express The news the Moose Jaw Warriors and the entire Western Hockey League East Division had been waiting for has finally come. After weeks of rumours, the WHL announced on Friday morning that an agreement had been reached with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health that will allow the five WHL teams in the province - the Warriors, Prince Albert Raiders, Regina Pats, Saskatoon Blades, Swift Current Broncos - to be joined by the Winnipeg Ice and Brandon Wheat Kings out of Manitoba for a 24-game schedule based out of a bubble format in Regina. “It’s a great day for the Western Hockey League and the teams in the East Division and most importantly it’s an exciting day for our players,” said Warriors general manager Alan Millar on a media Zoom call shortly after the announcement. “It’s been a long 10-plus months for our players and I know that with the Zoom call we had with our players at noon today to update them, there were a lot of smiles and a lot of excitement.” The schedule will begin on Mar. 12, with the slate of games to be determined. All games will take place in the Brandt Centre in Regina, with teams practicing at the Co-Operator’s Centre adjacent to

the arena and teams being housed in the University of Regina and Luther College dormitories. The league said in a press release it “has developed an extensive set of protocols and believe the protective Hub environment will provide a high standard of safety, for not only players and staff, but the Regina community at large”. Players and staff will begin self-quarantining on Saturday, Feb. 20 and will report to the WHL hub on Feb. 27, where they will undergo COVID-19 testing fol-

lowed by an additional quarantine period. Players and staff will then undergo a second COVID test before engaging in team activities. Teams will be monitored and screened on a daily basis, as well as monitored through a similar system used by Team Canada at the World Juniors last month in Edmonton. As expected, no fans will be allowed in the WHL facilities, but a brand-new live-streaming service will be launched in time for the first games.

There will be a lot of precautions and things will be wildly different, but that’s all fine and well in Warriors head coach Mark O’Leary’s eyes if it means players get back on the ice. “From the coach’s perspective, I think the biggest thing is the excitement of being able to do what we do,” O’Leary said. “We’re going to be back on the ice, and from a coach’s side, we want to help the players in terms of developing, I think they’re getting sick and tired of being in the gym and the practice atmosphere, so we just want to get back to competing.” The Warriors have stayed in contact with their players throughout the last 11 months, something O’Leary felt was important in building relationships and setting goals, but that only goes so far when it comes to working with a hockey team. “At some point you have to get back to it, and we’re really excited for the players and the unique opportunity to be surrounded by hockey for 60 days,” he said. "I feel a little bit like a kid heading away to a weekend tournament, it just happens to be a whole bunch of weekends.” Be sure to check MooseJawToday.com for an in-depth look with plenty of further information from Friday’s Zoom conference.

South Sask Hockey Academy soldiering along through first season Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

If everything had gone according to plan for the South Sask Hockey Academy in their inaugural season, their players would have found themselves going through a unique hockey experience. Not only would their crew of Under-11 and under Under-9 players have seen a ton of ice time and focussed practices, they would also have taken the ice in tournaments in neighbouring province and the United States, gaining more and more exposure to the game at a young age. Unfortunately, the pandemic put all of that on hold. But it didn’t stop the SSA an unsanctioned academy program developed by coaches Dayle Wilcox and Evan Schwabe - from putting their charges through their paces, developing their skills through regular practices and plenty of on-ice skill-focussed drills. That went even further in-depth when the provincial government instituted the current public health order limiting teams to eight players and two coaches on the ice at any one time. “It took a little bit of juggling to adapt to it, but we’ve been able to keep everyone involved since then,” said Wilcox, who came up with the idea for the SSA a couple of years ago, modelling it after similar programs in Alberta and the Prairie Hockey Academy in Caronport. “It’s been a challenge sometimes with certain aspects of it, but we still have all the kids out there and they’re all working hard.” In fact, having only eight players out there has helped when it comes to skill development, with many of their youngsters improving in leaps and bounds. “We’ve seen a lot of individual skill and

Players with the South Sask Hockey Academy have been on the ice throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. skating development, just because of the numbers,” Wilcox explained. “We used to be two coaches for 14, 15 kids, now we’re two coaches for eight kids. So there’s a little bit of a positive for that, the kids are seeing some pretty good development. “They’re missing the games and things like that, but with the cards we were dealt and everything that’s happened, we’re really happy with how they’ve managed to stick with it and keep at it.” All told, the academy has 56 kids for their inaugural season, with the SSA able to use their ice time efficiently enough to spread out practice sessions and balance ice time.

The program has already been planning for the future, too -- the aforementioned tournaments might not have happened this year, but it’s expected things will be in full gear next fall. And that has preparations for the 2021-22 season already moving forward. “We’re looking at doing some ID skates and tryout skates sometime in the springtime, just to get a rough idea for a number for what we’re going to have next year, that’s going to give us a bit of a head start compared to last year,” Wilcox said. “We didn’t get started until July, August, so we’ll have a better idea of where we’re at and whether we need more or to stay the

same.” And if prospective players are concerned about a lack of league competition… “I think a lot of people think we’re on an island here and don’t have anyone to play, but that’s not really the case,” Wilcox said. “It might not be a normal league, but a lot of these private type programs are looking for options also so we’d have no problem getting games here.” As an example the Hockey Super League in Alberta is a program that isn’t sanctioned by Hockey Alberta or Hockey Canada and partially owned by Warriors legend Ryan Smyth. The Super League has grown into an 80-team behemoth covering over 1,000 players ranging in age from the 2004 to 2011 groups. “This year if we were able to travel into Alberta, we would have been heading that way for the odd showcase, there was a lot of interest out of there and a few places in the States that would have been coming this way to play us too,” Wilcox said. “And we wouldn’t be travelling four or five hours for one game, it would be an exhibition series or a full tournament, so if you lump all your games together, everything in between is development time and practice time and that can be really rewarding.” Through it all, the SSA has received plenty of positive feedback and the potential for further growth is most certainly there. “So we’d like to get the word out and show there’s another option for parents out there,” Wilcox said. For more information on the South Sask Hockey Academy, be sure to check out their website at southsaskacademy.ca.

SportS HigHligHtS d

BASKETBALL

6:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Montreal Canadiens at Ottawa Senators.

HOCKEY

Thursday

6:30 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball Toronto Raptors at Milwaukee Bucks. 9:00 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball Brooklyn Nets at Los Angeles Lakers.

6:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey New Jersey Devils at Boston Bruins. 9:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Minnesota Wild at Anaheim Ducks.

Saturday

Friday

7:30 p.m. WXYZ NBA Basketball Miami Heat at Los Angeles Lakers.

Sunday 6:00 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball Philadelphia 76ers at Toronto Raptors.

Wednesday 9:30 p.m. NET NBA Basketball Los Angeles Lakers at Utah Jazz.

THURSDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

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Tuesday 6:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Pittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals. 9:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Vancouver Canucks.

6:00 p.m. CBKT CTYS NET NHL Hockey Toronto Maple Leafs at Montreal Canadiens. 9:00 p.m. CBKT NET NHL Hockey Calgary Flames at Edmonton Oilers.

6:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Calgary Flames at Toronto Maple Leafs.

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Au suivant (N) Prière de ne pas envoyer Galas ComediHa! 2020 Le téléjournal (N) MacGyver (N) The Blacklist (N) Border Border Global News at 10 (N) Shark Tank (N) Magnum P.I. (N) Blue Bloods Big Bang etalk (N) (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network The Blacklist (N) Dateline NBC “The Widower: Episode 2” (N) News J. Fallon Coronation Coronation marketplace Anyone The Nature of Things (N) The National (N) MacGyver (N) Magnum P.I. (N) Blue Bloods Two Men Late-Colbert Shark Tank (N) (:01) 20/20 (N) News J. Kimmel “Two for the Win” (2021) Charlotte Sullivan. Hudson & Rex Mobile MD Mobile MD Top 50 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 1. (N) SportsCent. Soul on Ice Central NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames. (N) Sportsnet Primetime Cash Cab Big Bang etalk (N) ››› “Men in Black” (1997) Tommy Lee Jones. Law & Order: SVU Mom Mom The Office The Office Bull (6:40) “Martha Marcy May Marlene” (:25) ›› “From Paris With Love” Black Sails “XXIII.” The Office The Office Raymond Raymond King of Hill King of Hill Frasier Frasier 90 Day Fiancé Mike and Natalie try therapy. (N) 90 Day Sister Wives 90 Day Reclaimed “Seeking Ore” Aussie Gold Hunters Aussie Gold Hunters (N) Mud Mountain Haulers Big Bang Big Bang Goldbergs Fresh-Boat Seinfeld Seinfeld Goldbergs Sheldon ››› “Gun Crazy” (1950) John Dall (:45) ››› “Thelma & Louise” (1991) Susan Sarandon. › “Gone in 60 Seconds” (2000) Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie. ›› “Road House” (1989) Kelly Lynch NASCAR Truck Series NASCAR Truck Series (6:10) ›› “Wendy” (:10) ›› “The Aftermath” (2019) Keira Knightley. “Assassination Nation” (6:10) ››› “Shazam!” (2019, Action) RuPaul’s Drag Race UK (:35) RuPaul’s Drag Race Flight “Wish Upon a Unicorn” ››› “Us” (2019) Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke. The Chi Say Her Name (:15) The Soul of America (:35) Between the World and Me

SATURDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

8:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames.

Monday 6:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Calgary Flames at Toronto Maple Leafs. 9:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Colorado Avalanche.

District 31 Infoman (N) 1res fois (N) Enquête (N) Le téléjournal (N) Call-Mother Neighbor Neighbor The Unicorn Clarice (N) Global News at 10 (N) Sheldon B Positive Call Me Kat Big Bang Law & Order: SVU Big Bang etalk (N) (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network Mr. Mayor Young Rock Law & Order: SVU Dateline NBC (N) News J. Fallon Coronation Family Feud Burden of Truth (N) The Fifth Estate (N) The National (N) Sheldon B Positive (:01) Mom The Unicorn Clarice (N) Two Men Late-Colbert Celebrity Wheel The Chase (N) The Hustler (N) News J. Kimmel Hell’s Kitchen (N) (:01) Mom Mom Mom Mom Paramedics: Paramedics: NBA Basketball Toronto Raptors at Milwaukee Bucks. NBA Basketball: Nets at Lakers NHL Hockey: Devils at Bruins NHL’s Best NHL Hockey Minnesota Wild at Anaheim Ducks. (N) Primetime Cash Cab Big Bang etalk (N) Pandora “Pay in Blood” Goldbergs Seinfeld Law & Order: SVU Mom Mom The Office The Office “Bridget Jones’s Baby” (6:35) ›››› “Children of Men” ›› “Career Opportunities” (1991) ››› “House Party” The Office The Office Raymond Raymond King of Hill King of Hill Frasier Frasier I Love a Mama’s Boy I Love a Mama’s Boy I Love a Mama’s Boy I Love a Mama’s Boy Bitchin’ Rides (N) Street Outlaws (N) Street Outlaws: Mega Cash Days (N) Big Bang Big Bang Goldbergs Fresh-Boat Seinfeld Seinfeld Seinfeld Seinfeld ››› “The Tender Trap” (1955) Debbie Reynolds. ›››› “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952) Gene Kelly. ›››› “Forrest Gump” (1994, Comedy-Drama) Tom Hanks, Robin Wright. ››› “Star Trek” (2009) NASCAR Camping World Truck Series NextEra Energy 250. Cross: Rise Search Search Search Search Search Love Life Letterkenny “New Corporation: Unfortunately Necessary Sequel” “Made in Italy” (2020) Liam Neeson. Extra Ordi (6:50) “Extra Ordinary” (2019, Comedy) ›› “The Addams Family” (2019) The Chi “40 Years a Prisoner” (:05) ››› “Bessie” (2015) Queen Latifah. I May I May

FRIDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A31

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En direct de l’univers (N) Deuxième chance (N) Belgravia Téléjour. Humanité The New Security Crime Beat (N) Departure “Endgame” News SNL W5 (N) “Willie” (2019) Willie O’Ree. (:45) etalk Heavy Rescue: 401 (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network Ellen’s Game of Games Weakest Link Saturday Night Live (N) News SNL NHL Hockey: Maple Leafs at Canadiens NHL Hockey Calgary Flames at Edmonton Oilers. (N) NCIS: Los Angeles 48 Hours 48 Hours Paid Prog. Two Men NBA NBA Basketball Miami Heat at Los Angeles Lakers. (N) News ThisMinute NHL Hockey: Maple Leafs at Canadiens Hudson & Rex Paramedics: Paramedics: SC 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 4. (N) SportsCent. NHL Hockey: Maple Leafs at Canadiens NHL Hockey Calgary Flames at Edmonton Oilers. (N) Corner Gas Pop Life MasterChef Canada Hellfire Heroes Flashpoint “Good Cop” “Love on the Slopes” (2018) Katrina Bowden. “The Secret Ingredient” (2020) Erin Cahill. (6:35) ›› “Big Fat Liar” (:05) ›› “Crooklyn” (1994, Drama) Alfre Woodard. “Do the Right Thing” 3’s Comp. 3’s Comp. Frasier Frasier Frasier Frasier The Office The Office My 600-Lb. Life Krystal shields herself from abuse. 1000-Lb. Sisters (N) My 600-Lb. Life North Woods Law North Woods Law North Woods Law North Woods Law Big Bang Big Bang Friends Friends Friends Friends Friends Friends ››› “Lilies of the Field” (1963) Sidney Poitier. ››› “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967) ›››› “Forrest Gump” (1994, Comedy-Drama) Tom Hanks, Robin Wright. ›› “Bad Boys” (1995) NASCAR Truck Series Drag Racing (5:30) › “The Goldfinch” (:05) ›› “Bombshell” (2019) Charlize Theron. ›› “Destroyer” (2018) (:15) “Before You Know It” (2019) Jen Tullock. ›› “Motherless Brooklyn” (2019) Edward Norton. (6:15) ››› “Green Book” (2018) ›› “Downhill” (2020) Will Ferrell. The Chi “Foe ’Nem” Fahrenheit (:35) ›› “Sometimes in April” (2005) Idris Elba, Debra Winger. Lovecraft Country

SUNDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

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District 31 La facture Toute la vie (N) 5e rang (N) Le téléjournal (N) NCIS (:01) Prodigal Son FBI: Most Wanted Global News at 10 (N) The Resident This Is Us To Be Announced Big Bang etalk (N) (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network Young Rock Kenan (N) This Is Us (:01) Nurses (N) News J. Fallon Coronation Family Feud Kim 22 Minutes Moms TallBoyz The National (N) NCIS FBI FBI: Most Wanted Two Men Late-Colbert To Tell the Truth (N) black-ish (N) mixed-ish To Tell the Truth (N) News J. Kimmel Young Rock Kenan (N) Hudson & Rex Mom Mom Brainfood Brainfood Top 100 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 12. (N) SportsCent. NHL Hockey: Penguins at Capitals NHL’s Best NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Vancouver Canucks. Primetime Cash Cab Big Bang etalk (N) Goldbergs Seinfeld Goldbergs Seinfeld Law & Order: SVU Mom Mom The Office The Office › “The Back-up Plan” “Standing-Mtwn” (7:55) ›› “It’s Complicated” (2009) Meryl Streep. “(500) Days of Summer” The Office The Office Raymond Raymond King of Hill King of Hill Frasier Frasier Outdaughtered Quarantine restrictions are lifted. (:02) Unpolished (N) (:02) Sister Wives Gold Rush: Pay Dirt (N) Gold Rush (N) Heavy Rescue: 401 (N) Homestead Rescue Big Bang Big Bang Goldbergs Fresh-Boat Friends Friends Friends Friends ››› “Pride of the Marines” (1945) John Garfield. (:15) ››› “Destination Tokyo” (1943) Cary Grant. ››› “The Bourne Identity” (2002) Matt Damon, Franka Potente. ››› “The Bourne Supremacy” NHRA Drag Racing Gainesville. Drag Racing “Swan Princess” (7:55) ›› “Destroyer” (2018) Nicole Kidman. “Assassination Nation” (:15) ›› “Ma” (2019, Suspense) Octavia Spencer. Teddy Pendergrass: If You Don’t Know Me Arab Blues (:40) “Target Number One” (2020) Antoine Olivier Pilon. The Chi “Gangway” (:10) The Soul of America Tiger Tiger

WEDNESDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

SPORTS

9:00

District 31 Trop (N) Une autre histoire (N) Faits divers (N) Le téléjournal (N) 9-1-1 “Jinx” (N) (:01) The Wall Bull (N) Global News at 10 (N) Big Bang Bob Heart (:01) 9-1-1: Lone Star (N) The Good Doctor (N) All Rise “Safe to Fall” (N) (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network Ellen’s Game of Games Ellen’s Game of Games The Wall (N) News J. Fallon Coronation Family Feud Murdoch Mysteries (N) Frankie Drake Mysteries The National (N) Neighbor Bob Heart All Rise “Safe to Fall” (N) Bull (N) Two Men Late-Colbert The Bachelor (N) The Good Doctor (N) News J. Kimmel The Bachelor (N) VeraCity: In Their Own Brainfood Brainfood January 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 9. (N) SportsCent. NHL Hockey: Flames at Maple Leafs Sportsnet NHL Hockey Sportsnet Primetime Cash Cab Big Bang etalk (N) “Garage Sale Mystery: A Case of Murder” (2017) Law & Order: SVU Mom Mom The Office The Office “Little Italy” (2018) (6:20) “Brown Sugar” ››› “Soul Food” (1997) Vanessa L. Williams. Little Birds The Office The Office Raymond Raymond King of Hill King of Hill Frasier Frasier My Feet Are Killing Me My Feet Are Killing Me 1000-Lb. Sisters (N) (:02) 1000-Lb. Sisters Gold Rush: White Water Gold Rush: White Water Mud Mountain Haulers (N) Homestead Rescue Big Bang Big Bang Goldbergs Fresh-Boat Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang ›››› “Rain Man” (1988) Dustin Hoffman, Tom Cruise. ›››› “East of Eden” (1955, Drama) ›››› “Pulp Fiction” (1994, Crime Drama) John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson. ›› “Escape Plan” NASCAR Truck Series NASCAR Truck Series Extra Ordi (:35) ›› “Shaft” (2019, Action) Samuel L. Jackson. The Circus “Sit-In: Harry Belafonte” Basketball (:20) “Snatchers” (2019) Mary Nepi. Funny Tweets (:10) “Blood Quantum” (6:15) ›› “Tolkien” (:10) “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” The Chi “Buss Down” (:15) “Equal Justice” (1990, Drama) George DiCenzo. Real Time With Bill Maher Beartown

TUESDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

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Découverte Pharmac Tout le monde en parle (N) Téléjour. The Equalizer (N) NCIS: Los Angeles (N) NCIS: New Orleans (N) News Block Holmes Family Effect (N) MasterChef Canada (N) The Rookie “Revelations” Big Bang Big Bang (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network The Wall Dateline NBC “The Widower: Episode 3” (N) News Sports Final Heartland (N) Baking Show Belgravia (N) The National (N) The Equalizer (N) NCIS: Los Angeles (N) NCIS: New Orleans (N) Joel Osteen The World’s American Idol Auditions across California continue. The Rookie “Revelations” News ThisMinute American Idol Auditions across California continue. Burgers Family Guy Shadow of Dumont Basketball 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 7. (N) SportsCent. NHL Hockey: Canadiens at Senators Sportsnet Central (N) NHL Hockey: Flyers vs Bruins Corner Gas etalk Corner Gas Corner Gas “Concrete Evidence: A Fixer Upper Mystery” (2017) “Cooking With Love” (2018) Ali Liebert, Brett Dalton. “Love Unleashed” (2019, Romance) Jen Lilley. Secret (:25) ››› “The Color Purple” (1985, Drama) Whoopi Goldberg. ››› “Cold Mountain” Man-Plan Man-Plan Raymond Raymond Raymond Raymond The Unicorn The Unicorn 90 Day Fiancé “Three’s a Party” (N) (:02) Sister Wives (N) (:02) 90 Day Fiancé (N) BattleBots “Qualify! Or Wave Goodbye!” (N) Undercover Billionaire (N) Lone Star Law Cold As Cold As Cold As Cold As Cold As Cold As Cold As Cold As ››› “Bombshell” (1933) Jean Harlow, Lee Tracy. ››› “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” (1931, Horror) (5:00) “Forrest Gump” The Walking Dead (N) ›› “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life” Drag Racing NASCAR Truck Series NASCAR Truck Series Dragonheart (:45) “Fast Color” (2018) Gugu Mbatha-Raw. The Circus Shameless (N) (:05) ›› “The Good Liar” (2019) Helen Mirren. “Birds of Prey (Fantabulous Emancipation)” Like a Girl (:45) “The Man Who Killed Don Quixote” (2018) Adam Driver. The Chi “Brewfurd” Axios (N) (:35) Fauve (7:55) “Charm City Kings” (2020) Jahi Di’Allo Winston. Eliza (Series Premiere) (N)

MONDAY EVENING 3 CBKFT 5 CFRE 6 CKCK 7 WEATH 8 WDIV 9 CBKT 11 WWJ 12 WXYZ 13 CTYS 19 TSN 20 NET 25 EDACC 26 W 29 ENCAV2 33 CMT 35 TLC 38 DISC 41 COM 42 TCM 47 AMC 48 FSR 55 CRV1 56 CRV2 57 CRV3 58 HBO

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District 31 L’épicerie Les enfants de la télé (N) La Maison Les mecs Le téléjournal (N) Tough as Nails (N) SEAL Team S.W.A.T. “Stakeout” Global News at 10 (N) Goldbergs Big Bang Conners Call Me Kat For Life “Andy Josiah” Big Bang etalk (N) (6:00) Evenings on The Weather Network Evenings on The Weather Network Black History Chicago Fire Chicago P.D. News J. Fallon Coronation Family Feud Coroner “Eyes Up” (N) Pretty Hard Cases (N) The National (N) Tough as Nails (N) SEAL Team S.W.A.T. “Stakeout” Two Men Late-Colbert Goldbergs Housewife Conners Call-Mother For Life “Andy Josiah” News J. Kimmel Chicago Med Chicago Fire Chicago P.D. Brainfood Brainfood Top 50 2021 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Curling Pool Play: Draw 15. (N) SportsCent. NHL Hockey: Flames at Maple Leafs Sportsnet Central (N) NBA Basketball: Lakers at Jazz Primetime Cash Cab Big Bang etalk (N) Goldbergs Seinfeld Seinfeld Housewife Law & Order: SVU Mom Mom The Office The Office Bull (6:20) ››› “Enemy” (7:55) ››› “A River Runs Through It” (1992) “The Devil’s Own” (1997) The Office The Office Raymond Raymond King of Hill King of Hill Frasier Frasier My 600-Lb. Life (N) My Feet Are Killing Me Half-Ton Killer? Mysteries of the Deep Expedition X (N) Moonshiners (N) Moonshiners (N) Big Bang Big Bang Goldbergs Fresh-Boat Friends Friends Friends Friends ›› “Take a Giant Step” (1959) Johnny Nash. ››› “A Soldier’s Story” (1984) Adolph Caesar (6:00) ››› “The Bourne Ultimatum” ›› “Bad Boys” (1995, Action) Martin Lawrence, Will Smith. Drone Racing Drone Racing Drone Racing Drone Racing (5:45) Grace The Circus ››› “Us” (2019) Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke. “Cave Rescue” (2019) (6:20) ››› “Dark Waters” (2019) The Circus Shameless Supervillain (6:30) › “Cats” (2019) Taylor Swift. (:25) ›› “Good Boys” (2019, Comedy) The Chi “Terror Town” (6:40) ››› “4 Little Girls” (1997) (:25) “Baltimore Rising” (2017) Jerrod Carmichael: 8

PAGE A32 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

OBITUARIES SHELLEY MELINDA NEUDECK OCT 4,1969 – FEB 5, 2021 Shelley Melinda Neudeck passed away peacefully in her home on the morning of Feb 5, 2021, with her best friend and loving husband of 27 years, Corey by her side. Shelley lived with a pre-existing condition, and her passing was unrelated to Covid19. She was born in Rockglen, Saskatchewan and grew up on the family farm. Later she moved to Moose Jaw where she met the love of her life, started her family and was a fixture at the local Co-op where she touched the lives of many people in her community and made several lifelong connections. Shelley, Mom or Grammy was bigger than life itself and was always a call or text away if you needed her. Shelley loved kids and was always sure to get her visits in with all of her friends and family’s children. In October 2020 just three days after her own birthday, her son Braden and Shelbey blessed her with her first granddaughter, her pride and joy, Lexi Lynn! She always had a picture or story to share about her grandbaby, and her heart was overflowing with joy in the time she spent with her. Beloved daughter of Eunice Siggelkow and the late Gerald Siggelkow (2019), sister to Debbie (Darryl), Clint (Tina), Ryan (Lori), and Pam (Scott). She loved to socialize like her father Gerald and she always felt “A person is only a stranger once.” She had a natural ability to make everyone and anyone feel like family and loved her time at the cabin with her family and friends by her side. Shelley touched the lives of far more people than she ever realized and will be deeply missed. A funeral will not be held at this time, but a Celebration of Life will be held this summer, just how Shelley would want it! In living memory of Shelley, a memorial planting will be made by Jones-Parkview Funeral Services. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson. com or www.parkviewfuneralchapel.ca (Obituaries). Kelly Scott, Funeral Director.

SGT. ‘ANDY’ ANDERSON, LAWRENCE ELWOOD SEPTEMBER 18, 1930 – JANUARY 28, 2021 Sergeant Elwood (Andy) Anderson was our hero. He fought the good fight for 90 years, having his best friend, our mother, at his side for more than 65 of those years. As is with most heroes, he simply tried his best! In our eyes he was incredible, almost invincible and we were truly proud of him. So, it is with great sadness that we must notify both family and friends of our father’s passing. Elwood is survived by his seven children, Jane (Barry) of Duncan BC, Cindy (Graham) of Moose Jaw SK, Trent (Susie) of Townsville AU, Kevin (Jo-Anne Landine) of Comox BC, Cheryl (Kirby – deceased) of Moose Jaw SK, Derrick of Olds AB, Kimberley of Calgary AB; eleven grandchildren and six great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, a large extended family and many close friends. He was predeceased by his parents Salder and Vera Anderson, his sister Betty (Bob – not deceased), and his two brothers Jimmy (Willa – not deceased), and Raymond (Norma – not deceased). Dad was born in Ceylon, Saskatchewan in 1930 into a farming family, a mother (nee McNaught) from Ontario and a father who hailed from Wisconsin. He began his life at the beginning of the Dirty Thirties and like most children, adapted to his environment, never really understanding that he was poor. A positive attitude, belief in oneself and a plan in your back pocket was all that was needed for a successful life. Unfortunately, he lost his father from tuberculosis at a very young age, so he, his mom and three siblings worked hard to make the most of a tough prairie life. Dad joined the Air Force in early 1951 and trained as a fitter (aero engine technician) in Ontario. In 1952, dad was serving in Grostenquin, France with 430 Squadron; where he worked on the new Canadian built F – 86 Sabre. Also, at this time, mom and dad had decided they were going to get married. The following year mom made the big transatlantic flight from Regina, to Glasgow, Scotland, and the two were soon married in North Luffenham, England on November 14, 1953. They travelled extensively throughout Europe during dad’s tour of duty, returning to Canada in 1955. Once home, dad took his release from the Air Force and put his entrepreneurial skills to use for a few years.

Our parents at this time had a growing family of three children and one more on the way. Dad re-enlisted in 1958 after working at Currie Barracks in Calgary with the Lord Strathcona’s Horse. Happy to be back in the Air Force, the family found themselves at RCAF Base Greenwood, Nova Scotia. Dad was assigned to 404 Squadron, working on both the Neptune and the new Canadair CP – 107 (Sub Searching) Argus. In 1965 we were transferred to RCAF Base Comox, where dad would spend another 10 years servicing and flying on his beloved Argus aircraft. He was now with the 407 Maritime Patrol Squadron. In 1966, our parents had their last child, making us a family of nine. Our parents being stubble jumpers from Saskatchewan, decided it would be a valuable experience for their seven children to grow up in a similar setting, and soon bought a small farm on Little River Road, in the Comox Valley. In 1975 we were again transferred, this time to CFB Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. During his time in Moose Jaw, dad helped resolve the problem of buckling tailpipes in the CT – 114 Tutor jet trainers, designing and building tools to easily align the tailpipe in the aft section of this plane. Our father is a time capsule, at one point parading in front of Princess Elizabeth before she became the Queen of England, and also Air Marshal Billy Bishop during his training at Camp Borden, Ontario. In addition, he had the opportunity to head up the first ground crew for the RCAF Sky Lancers Aerobatic Display Team in Grostenquin, France. So, we have all lost another link to our history with his passing. Our father always said he was lucky in life, but he was also not one to stand around waiting for life’s riches to fall into his lap. He was a husband, father and teacher, who instilled the value of a dollar into all of us. Our dad has gone AWOL … and his children have lovingly dropped all charges! We know you and mom are together and will continue to watch over us. We miss you and love you both! X0X0 Jane, Cindy, Trent, Kevin, Cheryl, Derrick and Kimberley The family would like to thank all the hardworking Strathmore Hospital staff for the care and love shown to our father during his short stay. The thoughtful words shared at end of life by Dr. Bernhardt were very much appreciated. Our father will be peacefully laid to rest beside our mother in Maxim, Saskatchewan. To send condolences, please visit Elwood’s obituary at www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca.

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60 Athabasca Street East 306-692-0533 Minister: Rev. Jim Tenford

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A33

OBITUARIES DONALD PETER SAUER 1951-2021 Donald Peter Sauer passed away on February 7, 2021 at the Dr. F. H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, at 69 years old. He was born in Kelvington, SK on July 31, 1951. He resided in Lintlaw, SK from 1953 to 1960 and then the family moved to Moose Jaw in July 1960. He is predeceased by his parents John and Jean, siblings Joanne, Karen, Kenny, Garry, Alan and nephews Michael Sauer and John Probert. Donald is survived by his sisters Linda and Lorraine, all of Moose Jaw; niece Kathy Probert-Quinn (Allan) of Charlottetown, PEI, niece Amanda Vantassel of Dartmouth, NS, nephews Alexander, Shaun & family, all of Moose Jaw, nephew Dylan of Charlottetown, PEI, and cousin Dianne Kelly (Rick) & family. The family extends their thanks to Diversified Services, CNIB, and MJ Transit. Thank you to the ICU nurses and doctors at Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, EMS, Dr Kevin Dautremont, Dr. Waldner and all the staff at Extendicare. Thanks very much to all of the caregivers who made his life more enjoyable. As an expression of sympathy donations in Donald’s name may be made to the Extendicare Moose Jaw or Charity of Choice. When the current restrictions of Covid19 are lifted, we will gather for a Celebration of Donald’s life with the date to be announced. In living memory of Donald, a memorial planting will be made by JonesParkview Funeral Services. Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com or www. parkviewfuneralchapel.ca (Obituaries). Dayna Chamberlain - Funeral Director

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CHERYL EILEEN ZIPPER DECEMBER 25, 1950 – DECEMBER 12, 2020 Cheryl Eileen Zipper (née Stirton) passed away on December 12, 2020, surrounded by family in her home. A Christmas baby, she passed away just shy of her 70th birthday. Cheryl grew up a farm kid in Petrolia, Saskatchewan, running happily under the big sky, along the dirt roads, over the winter snowbanks, and in the springtime puddles. She often spoke with reverence of the hard work her parents, Bernice and Alan Stirton, put into making a happy, safe, and prosperous life for her and her three sisters, Dianne, Dorenda, and Charlene. She rode horses and played games with her cousins on both the Boyle and Stirton side, and delighted in the fun and sense of belonging of the Petrolia community. Cheryl and her sister Dorenda drove the truck and the combine during the harvest. In high school in Moose Jaw, Cheryl played the clarinet and excelled in academics, graduating at the top of her class. Cheryl rose to fame along with her sister Dorenda when they made Canadian sports history as the youngest team ever to win the Ladies Canadian Curling championship in 1970. Not even old enough to have a drink at the celebratory dinner, Cheryl ordered milk, like a true farm girl! She went on to win the Canadian Mixed Curling Championship in 1974, on a team skipped by her good friend Rick Folk. Cheryl had a keen interest in both design and the great outdoors, which led to her pursuing a Masters in Landscape Architecture from Guelph University. She began working in Edmonton as a Landscape Architect for Alberta Parks, and a few years later, signed up for flying lessons, her father having been an RCAF pilot. It was there that she met her flying instructor, Peter, a young man from Vienna, Austria who was running a flying school in Wetaskiwin, Alberta. Cheryl and Peter married in 1980, had Sterling in 1981, and Dominique in 1985. They moved to Vienna in 1989, where she applied her intelligence and immense discipline to learning German and completing both an MBA and Masters in Management from Webster University, again graduating as the gold medal winner at the top of her class. Bringing her Canadian sensibilities with her, Cheryl and Peter spent their summers taking the kids on camping trips from Egypt to Switzerland to Italy, in their trusty old Volvo. The ability to speak German opened up a deep, lifelong friendship with her mother-in-law, Gisela (known to others as ‘Oma’). Cheryl learned how to cook Schnitzel and enjoy red wine at the vineyards outside of the city, and loved hearing the violinists play in the

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cobblestone streets downtown. Viennese culture got into her blood, as she would tell you. She returned to Vienna every summer with Peter and Dominique, until 2018. The family moved to North Vancouver in 1995, and she took a job working for the Parks department in Port Coquitlam, where she was instrumental in protecting land from deforestation and creating natural spaces for the citizens to enjoy, often despite the objections of developers and city council. Cheryl retired in 2005, after being gifted the miracle of beating stage four cancer in 2003. An avid outdoors person, she filled her retirement by absorbing as much of the West Coast nature as she could, kayaking with her childhood friend Deidre in Deep Cove, and hiking, cycling, and snowshoeing on the North Shore with her good friends in the Trail Trekkers group, the Nordic Walking group, and the Tyrol Club out of Whistler. Inspired by her son, Cheryl devoted herself tirelessly to the cause of advocating on behalf of the mentally ill and was an active member of the North Shore Schizophrenia Society (now Pathways), from the late 2000s until her death. As President of this organization for several years, she championed community efforts to increase awareness of the needs of the seriously mentally ill. Many young people across North and West Vancouver would recognize her as the woman who stood in their grade 10 and 11 classes and taught them about bipolar and schizophrenia. Her sense of civic duty was innate, and she never considered her work to be done. Her principles were unwavering, and paired with her kindness, made her one of the most selfless people many of us ever knew. She had a deep intuition, and her intellect was spotless. Inherently, she was a creative person, whose dream it was, following her undergraduate degree in Fine Art, to devote her energy to drawing. Her son, Sterling, inherited this gift from her. While the grief of a life cut short stings those left behind, the question of potential unanswered stretches onward, with no abating force. Thankfully, we can live in the legacy of those we loved, by pursuing our own dreams in their honour. Cheryl was warm. Her smile was arresting. To catch her laugh, especially at herself, was simply unavoidable. Like her father Alan, she had a twinkle in her eye. While we can’t know where her spirit is now, we imagine she is laughing with her dad, chatting with Oma, and floating around in the skies on a “beautiful, gorgeous day”, counting seals in Deep Cove and keeping an eye out for blue herons. Cheryl is survived by her husband Peter, her son Sterling, her daughter Dominique (Frederick), her three sisters Dianne, Dorenda, and Charlene, and her mother, Bernice. Her father, Alan, passed away in 2009, and her mother-in-law, Gisela, passed away in 2018. Cheryl is fiercely loved, and deeply missed. A celebration of life will be held for Cheryl in the summer of 2021. Donations can be made in Cheryl’s name to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

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PAGE A34 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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TOOLS & EQUIPMENT For sale: 7-1/2 F.T. Shute front mount snow blower - 540 RPM. Phone 690-7227 or 693-4321 For sale: Done renovations project have left over materials for sale, 15lbs of #6 - 1-1/4 “drywall screws, $15. Pail of drywall compound about 1/3 full, $12. New in package hinge pin door stops (keeps door knob from going through drywall), $4 each. New in box recessed lighting 6 pack asking $50. New in box 1/2 hp Craftsman garage door opener, $120. Large Taylor Professional step on weight scale, large numbers, $70. For more details please call 306692-2393. FOR RENT Adult’s only 2 bedroom 780 sq ft apartment recently painted and up graded. Oak cupboards, new bathroom fixture, carpets in bedrooms. Has stove, fridge & microwave $750 per month plus $750damage deposit. Must have references. No pets, smoking or parties. Utilities in-

cluded except power. Close to bus stop. South hill location. Contact306-693-3727. Rosewood Co-op housing has a 2 bedroom suite available for couples 50 years and older, rent $785/month,#140 High St E. Moose Jaw. Call 306-6922200 or 692-0179 or email rosewoodhousing @sasktel.net. Check our facebook page. For rent: Clean, 1200 sq ft home NE area. 3 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, fridge, stove, washer, dryer $1250 per month (includes lot rental) plus utilities. References and damage deposit required. No pets, no smoking. Contact 306-6926844. 3 bedroom house near Co-op store downtown for rent. For more information Call 306692-8456 2 bedroom & 1 bedroom suites for rent. Near South hill Shopping Centre. Call 306-6928456 MISCELLANEOUS MOVING AND MUST SELL - 2

queen size beds: one slat style headboard ($350) & one with padded leatherette headboard ($250). Round antique dining table (fruitwood), 1 leaf ($350). 2 antique, hand carved French Country dining chairs ($40). 2 piece china cabinet, lighted glass top cabinet, dark rosewood finish ($800). Assorted Waterford and Rosenthal crystal. 6 place setting dinner set: Wedgewood “Oberon” plus open veg bowl & platter ($500) NO INDIVIDUAL PIECES. Parsons table (desk) - 72”L, 18”W $40. Entertainment centre: 54”L x 18.5”W x 29”H, 6 drawers & centre shelving $140. Call 306-513-8713 - Moose Jaw. HOUSEHOLD ITEMS For sale: 12 cu. Ft. Frigidaire refrigerator, energy guide 443 KWH per year, asking $300.00. 14 inch electric chain saw $15.00; 5ft folding table $10.00; double size box spring mattress and bed frame made by Guardian Golden sleep asking $200.00. 306-693-3992

CLOTHING For sale: Two like new men’s long sleeve shirts, one is a Denver-Hayes Brand, XL/TG - 34 sleeves, blue/grey, $15. The over is a top of the line English Laundry Brand, 17-1/2 - 36/37 sleeve, purple/square pattern, $20. For more details please call 306-692-2393. SPORTS Sears free spirit treadmill (gently used) Inclining deck with 5 programs. Speed, time, distance, calories and pulse functions. Foldable deck. Call (306)692-8517 or (306)7562453 leave message. 3 sets of cross country skis (one set new) poles and bindings. Ski boots sizes 6-9. Call (306)692-8517 or (306)7562453. Please leave a message. For sale: 2 sets cross country skis $40 & $60. 1 manual ice auger $25. 1 - 12volt Minnkota Trolling motor - $75. Phone 693-1936 WANTED Looking for Typewriter:

Senior not computer literate requires an old typewriter for use and not for decoration, free if possible. Call Jennie at 306.693.4497. Looking for square patio umbrellas, preferably 6 foot 306681-8749 Looking for 10 pound and up dumb bell weights, in pairs only 306-681-8749 Wanted to buy: Looking to buy a clean 54 inch double bed, mattress and box spring. Must be in good condition. Also looking for a larger good working microwave. Give me a call with what you have, 306-692-2393 SERVICES Junk to the dump in and around Moose Jaw - $40 and up 306681-8749 Kayla’s Custom Coaching is now taking on personal training and nutrition clients. Text 3066902488 to get started today HELP WANTED Local senior requires visitor 3 times a week. Conversation,

television viewing, computer assistance, and walks when weather allows. No housekeeping, cleaning or personal care required. References requested. Payment discussion. Please contact Robin (306) 692-9727 leave message.

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Juditta Built-In-Space wheel chair model B-30. Paid $450000, in good condition.

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Covid-19 south central 2 sub-zone - Moose Jaw A look at COVID numbers from Feb. 6 to 12 in Moose Jaw – South Central 2 Sub-Zone: As of Friday, Feb. 12, there are 31 active cases in the South Central 2 sub-zone. There are 1,900 active cases in the province overall. Saturday, Feb. 6: 264 cases reported in the province, 6 in the South Central (4 in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Four deaths reported in SK, 145 recoveries. Sunday, Feb. 7: 194 cases reported in the province, 4 in the South Central (all of which were in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Three deaths reported in SK, 241 recoveries. Monday, Feb. 8: 171 cases reported in the province, 1 in the South Central (located in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Two deaths reported in SK, 328 recoveries. Tuesday, Feb. 9: 80 cases reported in the province, 1 in the South Central (located in

the South Central 2 sub-zone). Five deaths reported in SK, 253 recoveries. Wednesday, Feb. 10: 180 cases reported in the province, 1 in the South Central (located in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Two deaths reported in SK, 245 recoveries. Thursday, Feb. 11: 114 cases reported in the province, 4 in the South Central (all located in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Zero deaths reported in SK, 147 recoveries. Friday, Feb. 12: 195 cases reported in the province, 5 in the South Central (all located in the South Central 2 sub-zone). Two deaths reported in SK, 256 recoveries. Vaccine delivery: 46,788 total. As of Feb. 12, zero doses have been administered in the South Central.

COVID-19 restrictions & Upcoming Events in Moose Jaw The following is a running list of groups, businesses, and organizations that have implemented COVID-19 precautions due to concerns about COVID-19. Moose Jaw Express staff will be updating this list as needed. If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at editor@mjvexpress.com. For information about the status of COVID-19 in Saskatchewan, or for more information on symptoms and preventative measures, visit saskatchewan.ca/ COVID19. Current Public Health Orders: The Saskatchewan Health Authority is currently recommending: - residents maintain a minimum of three meters distance when in public; - adhere to hand-washing protocols and sanitation measures in public spaces; - self-monitor for the development of COVID-19 symptoms and contact HealthLine 811 if any appear; - maintain a close household bubble to help reduce the spread of the virus and aid with contact tracing procedures. Face masks are now mandatory in all indoor spaces across the province, including fitness facilities and workplace areas not accessible to the public. Indoor private gatherings are now limited to household members only, no visitors. Single individuals who live alone may be in contact with one consistent household of less than five individuals. Outdoor gatherings are now limited to a maximum of 10 people, with physical distancing in place. Nonessential interprovincial or international travel is strongly discouraged. Public venues are limited to a max of 30 people and all sports activities are cancelled for all age groups. Retail stores and personal services like salons must limit their capacity to 50 per cent. Large stores must limit capacity to 25 per cent. Visitors are also currently not allowed at SHA-operated facilities in the province, with the exception of

compassionate care reasons, and masks are required in all areas of SHA facilities. Vaccine delivery has begun, with Phase One for vulnerable priority populations underway and Phase Two for the general public proceeding in April using an age-based priority list. Changes in Businesses & Organizations: Please be sure to check with individual businesses, organizations and public spaces about specific COVID-19 precautions that they may have in place. Casinos and bingo halls are closed by the mandate of public health. The Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre and Timothy Eaton Gardens are closed until further notice. Upcoming Events: Grief Support groups from Jones-Parkview Funeral Services are moving to Zoom for the time being. For the link to attend any of these groups, contact Della Ferguson at dferguson@sasktel.net. The Moose Jaw Public Library: is still offering virtual programming to the public. Teen events are hosted on Discord and adult events on Zoom, and the links to join events can be found on the library’s website. Upcoming events include: - Digital Dungeons & Dragons on Feb. 16 and Feb. 23 at 7 p.m.; - I Make Canadian Stories! Week events on Feb. 16 until Feb. 21; - Teen Virtual eBook Club on Feb. 23 at 4 p.m.; - Festival of Words Book Club on Feb. 25 at 2:30 p.m. Moose Jaw Legion: The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw lounge hours are now listed as Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from noon to 6 p.m. Face masks are mandatory. Upcoming activities at the Legion include: - Veteran’s morning coffee: Monday to Friday at 10 a.m.; - curling, darts and shuffleboard currently suspended; - next meat draw fundraiser: Feb. 19 at 3 p.m.; - Chase the Ace: Feb. 19 at 3 p.m.

Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery: - the new Virtual Travel Series, an adaptation of the Noon Hour Slides program will be held over Zoom every Wednesday at noon until March. - MJMAG staff are putting together a Pandemic Time Capsule and seeking photo submissions from residents showing interesting and creative ways the community adapted to COVID-19 this year. Photos will be included in both the capsule and a spring exhibition at the gallery. Contact the MJMAG for more information. - new exhibition Fire in the Belly: SK Women in Art, featuring a collection of work from many different female prairie artists, is now on display in the gallery until May 2. Western Development Museum: is hosting a familyfriendly scavenger hunt event in the Moose Jaw and Yorkton locations for Heritage Week. The activity is available for visitors to participate in from Feb. 13 until Feb. 28, free with museum admission and suitable for ages 2+. Heritage-themed prizes for all ages available. Big Country Toastmasters: is hosting an educational and informational open house meeting on how to use Zoom and how to practice public speaking skills on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. Those interested can join by entering the meeting ID #994 4476 4964 in Zoom, followed by the meeting password: D42TM20Z5. Peacock Collegiate: The musical theatre program’s final showing of Mary Poppins will be on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. available as an online video performance. Tickets for the show are free and available by requesting a stream link online at ShowTix4U.com. St. Andrew’s United Church: The church is hosting a drive-through dinner fundraiser on Palm Sunday, featuring a roast beef dinner from Charlotte’s Catering for $20 a plate. Meals will be available to pick up between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on March 28 at the church. Contact the St. Andrew’s office, Sheila Leahy at 1 (306) 694-5980 or Louise McDougall at 1 (306) 693-2312 to pre-order.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021 • PAGE A35

of moose jaw

140 Main St N | 306-694-5766

Beautiful location, large private treed and fenced yard in Prairie Oasis Trailer Court. Over 1100sqft of living space, open concept with vaulted ceiling. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths. Ensuite off primary bedroom. Kitchen features ample cabinets, lots of counter space. Move in ready!

NEW NEW NEW!! Extensive renovations have been done in this 2 bedroom bungalow. Large welcoming foyer, large kitchen, eat up snack counter, spacious dining room. New bathroom! New flooring carpeting, lighting, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical, siding and more!

Lori Keeler REALTOR® 631-8069

Katie Keeler REALTOR® 690-4333

Beth Vance REALTOR® 631-0886

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South Hill, townhouse condo. Direct entry to attached garage. Open concept kitchen, dining and living room. Kitchen features abundance of cabinets, pantry, granite counters and working island. Appliances included. 2 bedrooms, bath, and laundry upstairs.

Affordable starter home featuring sunny cozy living room, eat in kitchen with access to fenced private back yard. Basement finished with family room, good sized den and bathroom. Laundry/utility area. Single garage. Off street parking.

Extensively renovated 2 storey home with 4 bedrooms. Large foyer, huge living room/dining room. Good size kitchen with new cabinets, appliances included. Basement developed with family room, storage, den and laundry.

Charming character home on Alder Avenue. Large glassed in front veranda, original woodwork. Spacious living room, large dining room with patio doors to new deck. Cozy den with fireplace. Beautiful oak kitchen, s/s appliances. Finished basement. Garage.

Market Place REAL ESTATE

McHolm Farm, Baildon

1203 Athabasca St W

1035 Lillooet ST W

1017 Coteau St W

306-694-4747 324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK

Derek McRitchie

REALTOR ®

Amber Tangjerd

REALTOR ®

E.G. (Bub) Hill

REALTOR ®

Bill McLean

REALTOR ®

(306) 631-1161 (306) 681-9424 (306) 631-9966 (306) 630-5409

$460,000 15 minutes of Moose Jaw - 1/4 section 3 bedroom house double attached garage. There is a 26’ x 36’ heated shop, a 24’ x 60’ shed with half the floor concrete and a newer 40’ x 64’ pole shed. The farm land is currently rented and the tenant has expressed an interest in continuing to Lease the farm land. The property is located 12 miles south of Moose Jaw on the #2 highway, one mile west.

$219,900

1040 sq ft, 3 Bed home Kitchen with attached Dining Rm area, full 4pc Bath and spacious Living. Lower Level, Family Room area with a Bar and Den Area. Plenty of Storage in the Utility/Laundry Area. Newer updated HI EFF Furnace Water Heater replaced New 100 Amp Electrical Service, Central Air. Has some updated windows, fixtures, flooring have been updated. Oversized Dbl Det. Garage fully Landscaped, Newer Fencing and Deck off the back entry.

$139,900 Affordably priced Bungalow 2 spacious bedrooms on the main floor, ample sized Living Rm, Kitchen / Dining Area....Lower Level is developed with a Family Rm Area, Utility Area with Plenty of Storage Space. High Efficient Furnace, Newer Water Heater, Appliances included. Property would make a great potential revenue property or for a first time home buyer looking for a Home.

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into your life!

$154,900

Large Lot 50' wide and 165' deep,. Kitchen, Countertops, Flooring, Plumbing, HI Furnace and Water Heater, Newer 100 amp Electrical Service Panel, Shingles....Main Floor features a Bright Kitchen and Dining area combined, updated 4 Piece Bath, Living Room and 2 Bedrooms. Lower Level is neat and clean but open for development. 1 1/2 Car Garage is Heated and Insulated.

www.moosejawrealestate.net

On the Front Porch

by Wanda Smith

New Normal There are no lockdowns or restrictions in God. You may be struggling with the control that has been exercised over our province and nation; so I release His peace, His joy and His love over you. Regardless of the chaos that may be going around you, I declare that you are moving forward in freedom by the Spirit of the Living God. This is not the end. This is only the beginning of what God wants to do in our lives. He is asking us to go deeper in Him and trust Him in these difficult days. In this journey of finding out who we are and how we are known in heaven, we are on an amazing treasure hunt to recognize and even uncover and unearth our own personal destiny. There are aspects of who we are that

have been buried from hurt, pain, and even manipulation on the enemy’s part. Satan does not want us to discover who we are and whose we are because we then become untouchable by him. In Micah 4:13, God says, “I am making you into a people invincible, into God’s juggernaut to crush the godless peoples. You’ll bring plunder as holy offerings to God, their wealth to the Master of the earth.” Juggernaut means a massive, unstoppable, force, campaign, movement or object that crushes whatever is in its path. This is one of the identifiers of who we are! We are juggernauts! We are invincible! We are God’s force that is moving forward to bring righteousness and justice to this earth! Today, I was reading an article about ‘collectivism’; a word I have never heard of until now. According to www. vocabulary.com, “it is a political theory associated with communism. It is the idea that people should prioritize the good of society over the welfare of the individual. It is the opposite of individualism.” In theory, this all sounds good and well-meaning however, I am deeply troubled by this ideology that is creeping into society. The enemy’s plan is to divide and conquer. He is sly and covert. He poses as “an angel of light” with catch phrases that appeal to the masses and begins to create a division amongst those who have been friends or connected in one way or

another. It is troubling to see the deception that is covering many eyes and minds to his tricky and cunning ways. Yet, God is shaking and exposing the darkness. God has never been about the masses. He has always been about the “one”. There are countless true historical accounts of when He cared about the widow, the orphan, the lost one, the prodigal and the beggar. He even cares about the sparrow. “Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Matthew 6:26. In the parable of the lost sheep, He is determined to find the one lost sheep; leaving the 99 behind. He cares about the one. He cares about you. In fact, “even the very hairs on your head are all numbered.” Genesis 1:27 says, “God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” He has given us His DNA, creating us to be his sons and daughters. He says we are royalty, His chosen ones and His creation. How deep the Father’s love is for us; for me, for you. Let’s renew our minds to the “new normal” He has planned for us! The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.

Sask. waterways free of invasive mussels in 2020 For Moose Jaw Express

Travel restrictions played in a role in ensuring Saskatchewan waterways were free of invasive mussels in 2020. The Ministry of Environment’s aquatic invasive species (AIS) monitoring program detected no invasive mussels in the 125 waterbodies sampled throughout the province last year. “Once again, our surveys have shown the effectiveness of prevention activities in protecting Saskatchewan’s lakes and rivers from invasive species threats,” Environment Minister Warren Kaeding said in a press release. “Our comprehensive provincial strategy includes monitoring, public awareness and education, as well as roadside watercraft inspections and decontamination, all important components of the program.”

AIS, such as zebra and quagga mussels, pose a serious threat to lakes and rivers in Western Canada. They can severely affect aquatic habitat, fisheries, valuable recreational resources and important infrastructure for irrigation, power generation, and municipal water supplies. Last year the ministry inspected 911 watercraft. A total of 630 were identified as high risk for AIS, requiring further inspection. In total, nine watercraft were found to be contaminated with invasive species and 164 watercrafts were decontaminated. The ministry says that travel restrictions prevented movement across the international border. As a result, most inspections took place near the Saskatchewan/ Manitoba border.

Boaters are reminded to do their part in AIS prevention by diligently following clean-drain-dry protocols for watercraft and equipment, and by complying with provincial regulations. Anyone transporting watercraft in Saskatchewan must remove the boat plug and stop at watercraft inspection stations to be checked, or risk a $500 fine. It is illegal to bring prohibited AIS into Saskatchewan. The province is surrounded by invasive mussels, which are currently found in Ontario, Manitoba, Quebec, as well as in 34 states, including Montana, North Dakota and Minnesota. For more information about AIS and fishing, check the Saskatchewan Anglers Guide, available online at saskatchewan.ca/fishing.

PAGE A36 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, February 17, 2021

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