Moose Jaw Express March 22nd, 2023

yara awards night

Mar 25th 7pm

wins for hunger final total announced

tickets at 110 1st ave | moose jaw events centre

Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Dinner

Tickets now on sale for popular annual event taking place on Saturday, Apr. 1 at Heritage Inn Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

For 30 years, the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet has been a staple of the local sports scene, with the community doing everything in its power to make sure the fundraiser brings in plenty of cash to support the service club’s many, many ventures.

This year, they’re set to hit a milestone.

It’s expected the Sports Celebrity Banquet -- set for Saturday, Apr. 1 at the Heritage Inn -- will crack the $2 million mark in total funds raised through its three decades, with every penny of those funds helping make Canada’’s Most Notorious City the vibrant community it is today.

“It’s always a fun night that people want to be a part of,” said Banquet chair Cory Olafson. “I look at our corporate sponsors, there are a lot of guys who have been there from year one or have been there every year, so It’s fantastic to see everyone continue to support this event.”

Of course, it certainly doesn’t hurt that year in and year out the Kinsmen bring in elite athletes from past and present for patrons to rub shoulders with, and this year is no exception.

Leading the list this year is Hockey Hall of Fame member Teemu Selanne alongside former Anaheim Ducks teammate and 17-year NHL veteran Ryan Getzlaf and former Toronto Blue Jays World Series winner and broadcaster Pat Tabler.

Rod Black will return as the event’s Master of Ceremonies.

“We’re pretty happy with the line-up, as always,” Olafson said. “Getzlaf and Selanne were teammates together for a very long time and I imagine will have lots of great stories. I don’t think we’ve ever had a European-born player here and it’s the 30th

year of the Dinner, Selanne was a pretty big name back in the day and arguably had one of the best rookie seasons of anyone in history.”

Tabler is perhaps most famous for his broadcasting career alongside Buck Martinez on Sportsnet broadcasts and was also a member of the Blue Jays 1992 World Series championship team.

Then, of course, there are the many, many items up for auction. Olafson estimates that this year’s gathering of live and silent auction items is one of the best and most diverse ever, including one special item that he predicts will attract a lot of attention.

“One really interesting item we have base,” Olafson said, referring to the NATO professional pilot-training systems used out at 15 Wing. “That’s not something you can buy, so it’s pretty special and a pretty cool opportunity for whoever wins it.”

The event also sees the presentation

of a trio of awards -- the Kinsmen Sports Achievement Award, Country 100 Team of the Year and Moose Jaw Express Sports Builder Award.

All in all, Olafson expects to see another packed house and another fun night bringing in close to $100,000 for the Kinsmen’s ventures.

“There were some years where we weren’t very big, but now if we make around $50 grand, we consider that low, where last year we were over $90,000 and have made $100,000 in the past,” he said.

expecting now, and all that money stays in Moose Jaw and goes back to all the projects and groups that we sponsor.”

Tickets are available, with a table of eight going for $1,500. For more information and to buy tickets, contact Olafson at (306) 631-8893 or any Kinsmen member, and visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mjkinsmen/ for more updates closer to show time.

The Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet was a happening event in 2022 and will undoubtedly be the same when things take place on Saturday, Apr. 1 this year.

International Women’s Day focus: Computer engineering student at Sask Polytech

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

International Women’s Day was March 8, and as part of celebrating women in Moose Jaw we spoke to Harsh Saini, an international student from India in her second year of a Computer Engineering Technology Diploma at Sask Polytech.

“When I was in my senior year of high school, I asked my sister about what would be a good major to go in,” Saini explained. Her sister graduated from Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Business (Accounting) Diploma program in 2018.

“Since I was a child, I was fascinated with computers. I love computers,” Saini said. “And my sister advised me that they have a program in which they provide work terms, so even though I’m studying, I’ll still be able to get work experience … which will help me to understand what I’m studying and give me hands-on practice.”

So far, Saini said, she’s loving the Computer Engineering Technology Diploma because it teaches a broad overview of

“You learn about everything, from networking to security to normal, day-to-

day service repair stuff, and it just opens up a lot of doors for career opportunities.

“In this program, I learn enough about

both hardware and software that I can think of something, and I can see how I would create that exact similar thing from scratch. And it’s putting your imagination out into real life.”

Saini said that last semester, she came up with an idea for a remote-control car steered with hand gestures. She completed the project all on her own, from assembling the hardware to coding a software

Harsh is breaking ground at Sask Polytech because she is the only woman in her program. She believes that’s because stereotypes around computer engineering discourage girls from imagining themselves in those workplaces.

“I think whenever we talk about (information technology, or IT) stuff, the

“People always think that IT and computmore of like a male job.

“They have a stereotype of it, which I do not like.”

She is also one of only two women in her workplace. Saini is doing a co-op work term as a technical analyst with Regina Catholic School Division.

She said that even though many people don’t see her career as a “suitable profession” for a woman, she is essentially she’s even graduated.

everybody’s computers, making sure they time a problem pops up.

that’s something that’s, like, staying with me, and I love working in that kind of environment.”

Saini added that everyone in her program, in her workplace, and at businesses she has spoken with has been encouraging, open, and willing to answer questions. program.”

Sask. Polytech’s hands-on open houses give youths chance to learn about programs

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is giving high school students the opportunity to go hands-on with some programs for a few hours as part of an initiative to help youths understand what the organization offers.

The educational institution is running its annual INSIGHT program in March and April at all four campuses for students in grades 11 and 12 and recent graduates. The organization will feature 50 events across the four locations.

Some activities in which students can participate include touring labs and seeing practical demonstrations, playing games or activities that showcase a program and using equipment or materials on-site.

In Moose Jaw, Sask. Polytech is running electrical engineering events on March 16 and 30, carpentry activities on March 29, business program events on April 4, agriculture and food production activities on April 6 and civil and environ-

WEEKS FLYERS

mental engineering events on April 12.

All events run at the Moose Jaw campus’ main building at 600 Saskatchewan Street, except for carpentry, which occurs at the Town ‘n’ Country Mall. Students must register to attend the programs at saskpolytech.ca/programs-and-courses/resources/INSIGHT. aspx.

“It’s one thing to read about a program on our website or to hear about it from an advisor … , but we believe it’s really valuable to see the program space, interact with faculty members and students and participate in a hands-on activity,” said Scott Hellings, student recruitment advisor.

“Even if you’re on the fence or unsure if a program interests you, this is a reallygram for you. There’s no cost to attend, so there’s nothing to lose.”

Hellings gave an idea of what students can expect if they attend the carpentry workshop. The youths will visit the shop, see the equipment, learn about

the program, understand how to register, discover possible careers, learn about the provincial apprenticeship program and make something out of wood.

is showcasing in Moose Jaw were all chosen because those departments agreed to participate because they had the time and resources, Hellings said. However, if students are interested in learning more about a program that INSIGHT is not offering, they can contact Hellings and he can arrange a time for them to visit.

“I just think it’s a really good opportunity for students to experience the program. And here in Moose Jaw, I think it’s a good opportunity for local students because I think some students may not be aware of what we have here in our own backyard,” he continued.

“You can get a really good education here. You don’t have to worry about moving or commuting.”

Sask. Polytech’s programs offer coop work terms so students can apply their skills in real-world situations while also networking, gaining experience and being said.

There are several engineering technology programs at the Moose Jaw camor science, technology, engineering and check out the institution, he added.

For more information, contact Scott Hellings at 306-691-8385 or email moosejawrecruit@saskpolytech.ca.

Swift

Current-Moose

Jaw region creates most jobs in province

Job growth continued across Canada in February with an increase of one-tenth of one per cent.

Saskatchewan outpaced the national trend with a .4 per cent increase in jobs over February 2022.

The provincial unemployment rate of 4.3 per cent was less than the national rate

According to Statistics Canada’s monthly labour force survey, the Swift Current-Moose Jaw labour region had 5,000 more employed than last February

and knocked down the number of unemployed to 2,300 from 4,200.

The Saskatoon-Biggar region had 3,400 more employed workers while Yorkton-Melville added 1,000 employed with Prince Albert Northern region increasing employed by 3,000.

The Regina Moose Mountain region only gained 400 employees.

The provincial labour force grew by 7,400 to 605,800.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Moose

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Please call for your personal appointment to review your investment plan today.

Retired artists run technology-assisted quilting business from home

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw

Colleen and Craig Lawrence run their business, No Guilt Quilting, from the front room of their home in Moose Jaw, using a Statler-Gammill long-arm quilting machine capable of thousands of varieties of stitching patterns.

Craig retired about 15 years ago, his wife — still working at the time — decided started their business, and he began applying technical skills and artistic instincts to the new challenge.

The next quilting show in Moose Jaw, hosted by the Prairie Hearts Quilting Guild and titled Sew Full of Whimsy, will Events Centre. Colleen Lawrence is one of the organizers.

Quilts can be made for many different purposes. The Lawrences’ have made quilts for charity, to commemorate major life events such as births and marriages, as memorials for people and pets, as competitive entries into quilting shows, and, of course, purely for the sake of the art.

In similar fashion, quilts can be made many different ways. Hand-stitching is a labour-intensive, skilled trade requiring hundreds upon hundreds of hours for intricate patterns.

What Craig and Colleen do is use printed paper cutouts to create intricate the design they’ve made, they use their machine to do the stitching.

“It allows you to be very creative,” Craig explained. “The computer can do such intricate things that no person could ever accomplish on their own.

“I didn’t get good at and really learn the program for, well, a couple of years. But I could do basic edge-to-edge within weeks, and that’s where we started.” Their art requires a combination of digital graphic design, mechanical understand, and artistic choices in terms of fabric, pattern, threads, and colours.

“Usually, people bring us their quilt in three pieces,” Colleen explained. “They’re bringing us the backing, the batting, and then they decide what kind of (stitching) design they want on there. ‘I want feathers,’ or ‘I want swirls,’ or dogs, whatever it is.

“So, we go through what patterns we have in that category and then they can choose.”

Non-custom designs can take advantage of internet libraries full of patterns.

One order from a motorcycle-loving couple involved turning 40 Harley-Davidson t-shirts into a quilt. They prepared the fabric, found Harley-Davidson motorcycle and logo stitching patterns, and created a piece of art the couple can display and treasure forever.

People come from all over Saskatchewan for the Lawrences’ work, and other customers ship them material from B.C. or

Manitoba.

“We’re not looking for business or anything like that,” Colleen laughed. we like to travel. … We’re retired, so, you know, this quilt will probably take us until maybe three this afternoon, and then we’re one on, and if it only takes us an hour or two, then year, we’re done for the day. So, it’s our choice.”

Craig and Colleen will have competiquilting show. Tickets are available from Sasktix.ca or from the Events Centre Box

23034BS0

Most people, however, trust the couple to choose stitching patterns and thread choices for them.

quilt) and say, ‘Build it for me,’ Craig noted. “There’s so much you can do.”

He demonstrated the input of a cuscomputer attached to the Statler-Gammill long-arm machine.

“I use the mouse to draw it, and then put each of these in individually, and then they can be sewn as a group. These are all individual patterns. To do that one quilt takes all of these patterns, so it’s quite inmake other patterns out of it. I can change the shapes if I want to.”

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Craig and Colleen decide on a stitching pattern

The Lawrences’ estimate they have over 100 quilts in their home, many displayed on the walls

Craig and Colleen Lawrence with one of the quilts they are preparing for the Sew Full of Whimsy show in April

Colleen shows a small quilt with particularly intricate patterns that took dozens of hours to create

French association holds annual Tintamarre parade through downtown

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Starting from today, there are many notable days to celebrate in the upcoming few weeks, starting with the Spring Equithe Northern Hemisphere. It happens about this time of year around March 21st.

An equinox is when the sun is positioned directly above the Earth’s equator, which happens just twice a year on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes.

Gordon Edgar Randy Palmer

An interesting celebration around the spring and fall equinox take place in Mexico each year at the ancient ruins of the Mayan city Chichén Itzá. This celebration has taken place almost since the ancient pyramid El Castillo was built back in around 1,000 A.D. The Maya were skilled astronomers, and the pyramid is dedicated to the feathered serpent god, Quetzalcoatl. At sunset on the equinoxes, the angle of the sun creates shadows that look like a giant snake. The light-and-shadow snake appears to slither down the pyramid steps until it merges with the huge sculpted serpent’s head at the bottom.

I’m sure everyone is already surmising about a creative lie they can come up with to fool their friends and others on April Fool’s Day. I think it’s rather silly but good for a laugh if you can “pull the wool over someone’s eyes.”

Then of course, one of the most important Christian celebrations is adhered to at Easter. It’s a great time to learn about who and what this celebration is about, beyond bunny rabbits, chocolate and family festivities that seem to monopolize the conversation. It is probably considered the most holy of holy holidays. Sunday, April 9th is Easter Day.

I forgot to mention that April 4th is “Hug a Newsman Day”…so, I’ll be waiting for all those huggy expressions of kindness.

And April 10th is Golfer’s Day. All around the country, golfers are honing their skills and can’t wait to show them off, getting some good quality exercise and celebrate life at it’s best. The time spent in the bushes looking for the balls is an added bonus enjoying the great outdoors, not to mention maybe an added stressor. At least it makes good conversation on Hole 19 when the gang comes in and post evaluates the game.

Did I ever tell you about teaching our boys to make grilled cheese sandwiches when they were about six year’s old? Well, now’s the time, with Grilled Cheese Day coming up on April 12th. I thought I should teach them a few skills in the kitchen and this was one of them, alongside how to open a can of soup. Mom’s are not always around every minute of the day to alleviate the discomfort of growling bellies, so boys need to know a few basics so they don’t starve. Well, I can tell you that grilled cheese sandwiches were the rage around the house for days, not to mention weeks, and at all times of the day and evening. Now that they are adults, I don’t seem to see that they have the same desire for grilled cheese sandwiches as back then.

I will conclude with Newspaper Columnist’s Day to be celebrated on April 18th. After all these years, I admire columnists who can whip up a column from week to week. It’s a day in the life of…

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The Association communautaire fransaskoise de Moose Jaw (ACFMJ) has been holding an annual Tintamarre parade to celebrate the city’s French-speaking population, history, and culture for many years, and they turned out on March 17 to continue the tradition.

Tintamarre is a word literally meaning racket, din, uproar, and noise. It is an Acadian French traditional paand noisemakers such as pots, pans, and even musical instruments. Despite its Acadian origins, Tintamarre now unites all French speakers in Canada.

Canada’s Acadian Tintamarre began in 1955 during commemoration ceremonies for the 200th anniversary of the British Expulsion of the Acadians. The Expulsion killed thousands of people as part of the Britain’s war against New France. During the ceremony, the Archbishop of Moncton invited attendees to make noise with whatthe sound as the heartbeat of French-speaking Canada, two centuries after the attempt to extinguish it.

French or French immersion to students, including:

• École Ducharme (francophone)

• Palliser Heights (elementary school immersion)

• École St. Margaret (elementary school immersion)

• Central Collegiate (high school immersion)

• Vanier Collegiate (high school immersion)

In addition to the schools, there are also native French speakers in the community and a considerable population language.

Students, teachers, principals, community members, and newcomers marched from Crescent Park to Ecole Ducharme, making a joyful racket together. Dignitaries out for the occasion included Moose Jaw Mayor Clive Tolley, Moose Jaw Police Service Chief Rick Bourassa, and Denis Simard.

Simard is president of the Assemblée communautaire fransaskoise, the provincial parent organization representing French speakers in Saskatchewan.

“Tintamarre is an opportunity to make it known and to showcase that there’s a French community in Moose

Moose

Jaw

Jaw,” Simard explained. “It’s important for people to come out, make some noise, have a bit of a celebration. March is also le mois de la Francophonie, so it’s ‘the month celebrating the French language.’

“So, it’s an opportunity for everyone in Moose Jaw who speaks French to come out and spend some time together.”

Kinettes holding fundraising

Hal Rogers Education Fund

The Moose Jaw Kinettes are hoping to send you off for some fun in the sun while raising some money for charity in the process.

The local service group is currently holding a -

and the Hal Rogers Education Fund.

The HREF is named in honour of the Kin Canada founder and annually awards multiple $1,000 bursaries to individuals pursuing post-secondary education.

Just For Sun Travel donated the prize to the Kinettes, with a value of $1,200.

The departure date for the trip is from May 29 to

The draw date is Sunday, Mar. 26, so be sure to get your tickets fast!

Tickets are $5 each and available from any Moose Jaw Kinette or by texting / calling Rebecca at (306) 630-8194.

every $11 GDP — study

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

counting for almost nine per cent of national income.

tional gross domestic product, according to a study just released by Statistics Canada.

Urban and rural NPOs generated $303.3 billion revenues that year, an increase of 3.3 per cent from 2019. Both years involved hardships in raising funds due to the Covid 19 lockdowns.

Urban centres host the most NPOs with 104,600 with 30,350 in rural and small towns..

The urban NPOs employed 3.13 million people with one-tenth of one per cent decline in jobs from 2019.

Rural and small town NPOs employed 418,000 people, an increase of almost two per cent.

During the pandemic year of 2020, most categories of NPOs experienced a loss in revenues.

Philanthropic and volunteerism promotion NPOs lost about 40 per cent of revenues. Culture and recreation lost 15 per cent. Social services lost about 12 per cent.

Health NPOs gained about 20 per cent with environmental up nine per cent.

Urban religious NPOs gained 3.3 per cent but rural ones lost 3.4 per cent.

Almost one-quarter of NPOs are religion-based, with 17 per cent in sports and 12 per cent in social services.

Rural/small towns NPOs managed a 3.3 per cent increase in revenues in the 2020 lockdown year while urban NPOs lost three per cent.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Joan Ritchie EDITOR

The conclusion of Tintamarre took place in the gymnasium of Ecole Ducharme (photo by Gordon Edgar)

2023’s Tintamarre parade by ACFMJ (photo by Gordon Edgar)

The Moose Jaw Kinettes could be sending you to Las Vegas Images

Moose Jaw’s family-run Luby Bower Distillery opens to the public

Opening a new distillery/taproom/pub is not an easy process, but after three years of development, Moose Jaw’s Luby Bower Distillery is open to the public for tours, tastings, and drop-in hours.

Located at 1300 Lakeview Road, the family-run micro-distillery produces a signature line of gin with carean authentic Canadian Luby Bower whisky.

The business is currently closed on Mondays and Sundays, open for reservations and tours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and open to the public from 4 to 8 p.m. on Fridays and 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

Information on booking reservations and tours is available by emailing info@lubybower.ca.

The Luby Bower Distillery is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Brennan and Tamara Hilbig. Brennan’s brother Evan Hilbig and cousin Jim Smith are also co-owners.

The name comes from the owners’ grandmothers.

Tamara’s grandmother, she talked about her dad, Sidney com during a tour. “She said that he actually used to make moonshine, and there’s pictures of him with barrels and bottles and whatnot. So, I found that really interesting.”

Luby is Hilbig’s grandmother’s maiden name. He, Evan, and Jimmy trace their Luby heritage back through Newfoundland to Ireland — and the name was realized.

“The name really just seemed right, it was like, ‘Yep, that’s it, that’s the name,’” Hilbig said.

But the idea for a distillery started before the name

was discovered. Brennan and Tamara, a physician, took a trip to Ireland and Scotland and toured many of the fapoints of tasting whisky (Scottish and Canadian spelling) and whiskey (Irish and American spelling), and Brennan realized he wanted to look further into the possibility of

opening their own distillery.

“It’s a big learning curve coming from what I used to do,” he admitted wryly. Hilbig’s career for close to 20 days on, four days off, commuting back and forth from Moose Jaw.

“It all kind of worked out,” he said. “I was getting daughter, and I thought, ‘I’m not going to be travelling like the right time.”

Learning to make the product has been easy, Hilbig said. Distilling, bottling, and labeling are no problem — began the process as far back as 2019.

Hilbig said that while everyone he’s worked with federal, provincial, and municipal levels still took long enough for him to renovate the building all by himself. He has tiled and drywalled and painted, built a beautisnug’-themed dart room.

“It’s been a lot of fun,” he added. “Right now, our signature product would be our gin, and the one we have right now is our Hibiscus Lavender. It’s strong and bold, and it’s very popular.”

Hilbig will soon begin working to produce Luby the future and looking forward to building relationships, reputation in the province, the country, and beyond.

The Luby Bower family. (l-r) Evan Hilbig, Jimmy Smith, Tamara Hilbig, and Brennan Hilbig (holding daughter Davie Ann). Seated is Gladys Webster (Bower) (used by permission, photo credit Stacia Whelan)

Luby Bower Distillery front room 2

Luby Bower Distillery bar

Luby Bower Distillery front room

Moose Jaw-Assiniboia area receives $40K to support learning of rural kids

The KidsFirst Regional Program in the Moose Jaw-Assiniboia area will receive an extra $40,000 to offer mobile early learning opportunities to rural children as part of a joint provincial-federal agreement on child care.

There are 10 KidsFirst Regional areas across the province that will receive funding through this enhanced initiative. Besides the Moose Jaw-Assiniboia area, the other areas to receive $40,000 include Kindersley, Tisdale, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, southwest Saskatchewan, Regina, Yorkton and southeast Saskatchewan.

The Lloydminster-Meadow Lake-the Battlefords area received $45,000 since it is a larger service area.

The two levels of government are providing this additional money to KidsFirst Regional programming under the Canada-Saskatchewan Bilateral Early Learning and Child Care Agreement, 2021-26. KidsFirst received $823,500 in funding in 2022-23, so the additional funding increases total program support to $1.2 million.

KidsFirst Regional travels to communities across the province, bringing unique learning opportunities to chil-

acy kits, story walks and pop-up preschool events.

This increase in funding will allow KidsFirst Regional to reach more children in their communities with learning initiatives that focus on child development, literacy, nutrition, health and well-being.

“Providing KidsFirst Regional with more funding will ensure that regardless of where children live, they can have access to high-quality early learning opportunities,” said Education Minister Dustin Duncan.

“The variety of programs KidsFirst Regional offers will continue to support early childhood development, school readiness goals and positive social engagement in communities across Saskatchewan.”

KidsFirst Regional community developers work with local partners and families such as public health, Early Childhood Intervention Program (ECIP), family resource centres and libraries within smaller urban and rural communities.

They provide activities, events and access to inforthat spark creativity, ignite imagination and allow every

moment to be a teachable one.

Last year KidsFirst Regional supported almost 16,000 parents and young children in 343 communities. The program also distributed 8,600 early learning kits and backpacks across the province, including activities tomotor skills.

“Every child deserves the best start in life,” Canada’s Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Karina Gould, said. “The additional funding to KidsFirst programs will help ensure that all families in Saskatcheinclusive early learning opportunities no matter where they live.”ing opportunity near you, visit saskatchewan.ca/residents/family-and-social-support/community-pro -

This year’s Moose Jaw Music Festival started last week on Wednesday March 15, with the Choral Performances section at Zion United Church.

The General Festival, with categories including Vocal, Musical Theatre, Spoken Word, Piano, Strings, and Band is scheduled for Saturday, March 25 through Thursday, March 30.

The last day of the General Festival on March 30 will see a major scholarship competition held at Zion United at 7 p.m.

The Final Awards Concert of the Moose Jaw Music Festival will take place Sunday, April 2 at 2 p.m., also at Zion United Church.

The full schedule is available on the Music Festival website at events.solarislive.com/Moose-Jaw-Music-Festival. Updates are also frequently posted on the Moose Jaw Music Festival Facebook page at facebook.com/ moosejawmusicfestival/.

All performances are open to the public. Admission to Moose Jaw Music Festivals is by donation. The festival asks that patrons respect accepted etiquette by coming and going only between performances to avoid distracting

the performers.

Attendees should note that that festival operates in accordance with the Rules & Regulations of the Saskatchewan Music Festival Association (SMFA). Due to SMFA rules and general copyright laws, all forms of audio and

video recording are strictly prohibited.

Organizers were thrilled to announce that 2023’s Music Festival is a fully live event, although they admit that holding live events require a large volunteer commitment that hasn’t always worked out.

The Festival website notes that “Previous live events have been cancelled due to low volunteer commitment,” and admonishes potential volunteers not to let that happen again. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Festival at moosejawmusicfestival@hotmail.com.

Registration has now closed for 2023. All competition classes have been fully scheduled and performers are

Although major events are being held at Zion United, other venues will see some action too, including Peacock Centennial Auditorium and the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery’s Performing Arts Theatre.

The festival website FAQ section notes that teachers, performers and parents are expected to read the General Competition Regulations in the current syllabus at smfa. ca/syllabus-regulations/.

Saskatchewan singer/songwriter

Saskatchewan’s own Jeffery Straker, the singer/songwriter pianist from Punnichy with a sound reminiscent of Elton John, Billy Joel, and Rufus Wainwright, will return to the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre’s Mae Wilson Theatre on April 14.

“Well, what to say about the Mae Wilson? I love getting back there,” Straker said in an interview with MooseJawToday.com. “It’s been a couple of years since I’ve performed there, and it is hands down my favourite room to perform in in Saskatchewan.

think I was the one who nicknamed it the ‘Carnegie Hall’ of the Prairies — and I stand by that. It’s magical, it’s majestic, it’s got a mood and a vibe to it that I think probably gives it the biggest personality in the province.”

Straker ought to know, as the now-Regina-based art-

bum in 2006. He’s roamed Europe, South America, North America, and even Ghana in Africa.

“I’ve been lucky to perform lots of places,” he said. “I’d say the brunt of my touring is across Canada, but I also go into the UK, and the States. I’m just back from a run of shows in Florida, and in November I did a run of shows across the United Kingdom.”

Straker said that even when his audience doesn’t know where Saskatchewan is, his Saskatchewan inspirahe said, that all people can relate to.

“I have a song, ‘One Foot on Main Street,’ that’s literally about growing up in a small town, and leaving it, but being cognizant that your roots are there.

across England, or in Florida, I was kind of curious, like, is this going to connect? And it did.”

It works, he explained, because there’s a greater

theme there about spreading your wings and taking off from the place you started, while always having that reference point to look back at.

Straker’s latest album is Just Before Sunrise (2021). It helped him win Roots/Folk Artist of the Year at the Saskatchewan Music Awards two years in a row. He’s also won a Western Canadian Music Award, and in 2014 he gained a following across Latin American when his song “Hypnotized” won the prestigious Vina del Mar International Song Festival. Winning the Vina del Mar is notoaudience ‘the Monster.’

He is also known for adapting genres to perform sold-out concerts with symphony orchestras. As a classically trained pianist who can trace his teaching lineage back to Beethoven and Chopin, he is perfectly positioned to manage that fusion.

“I’ve always just wanted to tell stories through my songs,” Straker said. “I want to bring to life characters, places, and spaces through song. … So, to me, it’s never been about, you know, how big can the audience be, or what award might I win?

“What I thrive off is feeling a connection with listeners, and that can be in a house concert, to 30 people in a living room, or to a festival stage of 3,000 people, or (the Mae Wilson) in Moose Jaw, where there might be a couple of hundred people. That’s the payoff, and that’s what keeps me motivated.”

Straker is currently working on his next album, which he said is his most ‘roots’ yet. He plans to debut a song from that album in Moose Jaw. Called “Two-byFours and Timber,” it is ostensibly about Saskatchewan’s shrinking population of grain elevators, but Straker said that to many people it’s about the nostalgia of looking back at a way of life.

Don’t miss Jeffery Straker’s performance at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, April 14 at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre. Tickets are available from Sasktix.ca or at the Cultural

The Central Concert Choir performs as part of the Moose Jaw Music Festival at Zion United Church in

Resignation of Lyle Stewart from Legislature ends 25 years of service to constituents

The last one of six original Saskatchewan Party MLAs this month.

Lyle Stewart of Pense resigned after 25 years as MLA for the rural riding of Thunder Creek, later redesigned as Lumsden-Morse, but including the rural Moose Jaw region.

An executive assistant to Colin Thatcher in the Progressive Conservative cabinet, Stewart tried for the Thunder Creek nomination after Thatcher went to prison for murder of his ex-wife.

Twice Stewart lost the PC nomination to Rick Swenson of Moose Jaw and won only by six votes in 1999. He unseated Liberal incumbent Gerard Aldridge in that election, winning over 50 per cent of the vote then and in the next next four elections.

In his early days Stewart was the consummate polithat he could attend. — be it a fowl supper or local public meeting.

He wasn’t that comfortable mingling with voters at

with media throughout.

Stewart overcame that shyness.

Once he was appointed minister of agriculture and became the farmers’ advocate in cabinet he didn’t have the time to attend everywhere. He piloted farmer-friendly legislation with a focus on crop insurance.

The rancher made the headlines in the fall of 2009 for a non-political event.

On his way home from Regina he saw a vehicle stopped on the road with a man walking toward him.

The ag minister stopped to give the fellow a lift out of the cold October day.

The man approached with a pen in hand and stabbed Stewart in the hand seven times as they struggled for 30 minutes. The six-foot plus rancher won the struggle and overcame the man, holding him until the RCMP arrived.

Stewart resigned as ag minister in 2012 after contracting cancer.

He also served as minister of enterprise and innovation, minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation and was interim party leader when Brad Wall resigned.

TRADING THOUGHTS

By Ron Walter For

Moose Jaw

Express

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necespublication.

In 2022 Stewart invited friend Colin Thatcher to the Legislature — an invitation that became controversial as voters were outraged that a convicted murderer was invited.

Stewart apologized and was stripped of remaining non-MLA posts.

Obviously Stewart believed in the judicial system goals – once a criminal has served time and become a good citizen they should be treated like others. Others made this a political issue.

Lyle Stewart was one of that rare breed of politician who never let political success and power change who he was.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Sask Polytech announces new diploma specialty in Municipal Administration

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has announced the launch of a new specialty for its Business Diploma program — graduates with the new specialty will have the training to successfully manage the day-to-day operations of a town or municipality.

Sask. Polytech’s School of Business offers its twoyear diploma program throughout the province, including in Moose Jaw. The other specialties available to businesssources, insurance, management, and marketing.

The new municipal administration specialty will be offered exclusively online.

“Thank you to our partners for their invaluable input into the new municipal administration curriculum for Sask Polytech’s Business diploma students,” said Kirsten Downey, academic chair of the School of Business.

The partners with whom Sask Polytech worked to develop the specialty include the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), the Saskatchewan Association for Rural Municipalities (SARM), the Urban Municipal Administrators’ Association of Saskatchewan (UMAAS), the Rural Municipal Administrators’ Association (RMAA), the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators (CAMA), New North - Saskatchewan Association of Northern Communities (SANC), Northern Administrators Association, and the Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations.

“(These) contributions have greatly enhanced the quality and effectiveness of the new program,” Downey continued. “This specialty will help prepare graduates for a rewarding and empowering role in local government. Graduates of this program will play a crucial role in ensuring essential services such as water, sanitation, and infrastructure are provided and maintained in municipalities across Canada.”

Key learning outcomes of this specialty include the management of human resources and labour relations in a municipality, applying municipal laws, ordinances, and protocols, developing strategic communications, public utility management, and municipal accounting and risk management.

“Effective rural municipal administration is what keeps Saskatchewan RMs going strong,” said Ray Orb, president of SARM. “The opportunity to provide input for this new municipal administration specialty within the Business diploma program is one we are appreciative of. living in, and running, a rural municipality and how this program will bolster the future growth of leaders in rural

Saskatchewan.”

Town of Mossbank, said that the skills required of successful municipal administrators have been increasing.

“Well-prepared administrators are more likely to stay in the profession,” Costley added, “and I’m hopeful this new educational opportunity will help address the administrator shortage, for the good of our communities.”

addressing the job needs of senior government managersipal administrators in Saskatchewan need a Rural ‘Class Current Business Diploma students are eligible to start the municipal administration specialty in fall 2023. Business Diploma students who have completed year one start the specialty in fall 2023.

Learn more about Sask Polytech’s Business Diploma at saskpolytech.ca/programs-and-courses/programs/ Business-Diploma.aspx

Humane Society

Pet of the Month Cricket

Cricket is a 6 month old male. Cricket was very scared when he rst arrived. But the sta love a challenge and pick him up, cuddle him and carry him around everyday. He is really starting to come out of his shell.

Cricket would do best in a home that is willing to give him a couple of days to settle in and learn that he can trust them.

Cricket's adoption fee is $75, he is neutered, started on his vaccination schedule and micro-chipped. If you are interested in meeting Cricket, please go to our website at www.mjhs.ca and click the Adopt tab, then Adoptable Animals and scroll to his adorable little face to submit your application. Once your application has been approved we will contact you to book a time to come meet Cricket and spend a little time with him to be sure he will be the right t for you. We look forward to hearing from you! Can't adopt Cricket yourself but still want to help? You can make a donation toward his care by clicking the following link. Thank you for your support! https://checkout.shelterluv.com/donate/mjaw

For more info contact the Humane Society (306)692-1517 | www.mjhs.ca Bring

Reflective Moments

By Joyce Walter - Moose Jaw Express

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and dosition of this publication.

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

A look at some of the sights from the Thunder Creek Model Train Show this past weekend at the Western Development Museum.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Oh Clark’s

I love your range of rental equipment!

you are always there whenever i call... you meet all my needs!

A visit to the Western Development Museum (WDM) helped elementary school students learn more about whatrials residents used to stay warm decades ago.

About 60 students in grades 7 and 8 from École Connaught Community School in Regina participated in the 10th annual Smarter Science Better Buildings event at the WDM on March 14.

The youths answered questions related to six interac-

ro home and lighting and appliances.

trolley coach and a weather module.

the types of furnaces used since 1880 and their respective

Duncan was also surprised by how old some of the artifacts were.

stand them better.

brought his class because he wanted to give his pupils the opportunity to be more hands-on with their science unit and lessons.

he could show only so many YouTube-related videos before the pupils lost interest.

that experiential learning around all of the heat and tem-

He added that the displays were well-researched and kept the students engaged.

Grade 8 student Walker Duncan thought the museum was “a really cool place” and enjoyed seeing all the vindisplayed. He also found it interesting to learn about the old materials — wood and straw — that pioneers used to construct buildings and the sources of power — such as coal — they used.

Duncan added that it has been interesting to learn by using triple-paned windows to conserve energy. Answering questions about the six interactive displays excited and interested Grade 8 student Nova Fenrick. She especially enjoyed the display about lighting and appliances because she learned how lightbulbs have evolved over the years.

Being hands-on helped her learn more since she could touch the exhibits and move items around to under-

no purple shield plan yet? HOST your OWN

PRE-PLANNING SEMINAR

With Your Friends – Other People Have!

Michael Penner’s seminar + you and your friends + a great meal .

1. You select a suitable date with Michael and choose a local restaurant with a meeting room.

2. Moose Jaw Funeral Home will make the reservation and pick up the tab for the meal.

3. You invite your interested friends to hear about the (minimum 5 people to maximum 20 people; we will even print the flyers)

Do your friends a favour: you become the host and have a great meal.

Upcoming public seminars

Wednesday, March 22 nd

~ Houston Pizza 117 Main Street North 6:30pm (from the menu)

Thursday, March 30 th

~ Rodos Pizza 9th Avenue South 6:30pm (from the menu)

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Nova Fenrick answers questions about water usage

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - Moose Jaw Express

Chili recipes can be as diverse as the prep cooks

Chili recipes may be as diverse as the cooks preparing their favourite chili meal.

Some recipes call for a variety of beans, from pork and beans to kidney beans and every bean in between. Mushrooms are a favoured ingredient for some cooks while others tend towards corn and celery and tomatoes.

Other recipes could include bacon bits and ground coffee or brown sugar and beer, or maybe some cinnamon and brown sugar with a dash of hot sauce. Or how about substituting ground moose or deer for the ground beef, or even using chicken instead of the ground beef.

meal.

• • •

SIMPLE CHILI AND BEANS

1 1/2 lbs. ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 tsp. salt

1-16 oz. can kidney beans

1 1/2 quarts tomato juice

1 tbsp. beef extract

1 tbsp. chili powder

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/2 oz. baking chocolate

Saute the hamburger, chopped onions and salt in a large skillet until meat is browned.

Add all other ingredients, stir, cover and

The winners of the annual Elks chili cook-off were both so thrilled they jumped up and down when the winning entries were announced.

“Oh, my God!” exclaimed Tracy Lichacz when she was announced winner from the 10 entries sampled by the three judges.

“I’ve entered every year. Up until now I didn’t win,” she said.

She declined to share the ingredients calling them “an ancient secret.”

She thanked her husband Mike and her co-workers who taste-tested versions of her chili and told her what they liked and didn’t like.

Winner of the peoples’ choice award, Kelsi Gieni,was also excited.

She has made her chili from the same recipe for years but also declined to share the secret ingredients that won her the plaque.

“Corn maybe,’’ she offered. “Mine was, I think, the only one with corn.”

“They are all different,” said Greg Lawrence.

simmer for 1 1/2 hours. Stir occasionally. Serve with shredded cheese, sour cream and crackers. Serves 6.

• • •

MEXICAN CHILI

3 lbs. hamburger

1 cup chopped onions

3/4 tbsps. cooking fat

2-6 oz. cans tomato paste

4-6 oz. cans water

2 garlic cloves, mashed

8 crushed dried red peppers

1 tbsp. chili powder

1 tsp. cumin seed

1/2 oz. unsweetened cooking chocolate

Brown the hamburger and onions in the cooking fat.

Add other ingredients and simmer for three hours. Add more water if necessary. Skim oil from top before serving.

Best when served over cooked spaghetti. If eating alone, top with shredded cheese and have sour cream and buns on the side. Serves 8.

• • •

CHICKEN CHILI

8 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 small can diced tomatoes

1 can white beans, drained and rinsed

1/3 cup tomato paste

2 tbsps. worcestershire sauce

2 tbsps. chili powder

1 tbsp. maple syrup

2 tsps. apple cider vinegar

2 bay leaves

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. dried oregano

salt and pepper to taste

1 onion, chopped

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

1 cup shredded cheese

2 green onions, thinly chopped

Place all ingredients, except chicken, corn, cheese and green onions in a large slow cooker and stir to mix. Place chicken breasts over top of mixture and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours until chicken is tender.

Removed cooked chicken and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to slow cooker and stir well. Add corn, stir and cook 10-15 minutes until corn is heated through.

Spoon into bowls and top with cheese and green onion. Serves 8.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

About 30 people braved the snow-clogged roads and took part in the chili eating, 50-50 draw and a silent auction at the Legion.

Everybody got a taste of each chili entry and then could have as much of any they wanted.

Several persons planning to attend were snowed in at home.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

If you’ve ever been interested in how the Moose Jaw Poindoor range — then an upcoming education program is for you.

The agency will give residents an inside look at the organization by holding a series of lectures and demonstrations in April as part of a Citizens’ Policy Academy. The course will run one day per week for four weeks, and along.

The topics on which the course will focus include the K-9 unit, the criminal investigation section, the tactical response team (TRT), the Police and Crisis Team (PACT),

Applicants must be at least 19 years old and must submit a criminal record check. This event will be free to all residents who are selected as participants.

Residents interested in the academy should contact Staff Sgt. Taylor Elder at telder@mjpolice.ca before Friday, March 31.

The Moose Jaw Police Service held these citizen-focused police academies in the past — and people enjoyed them greatly — but the pandemic put a pause on the ac-

“This is hard to determine,” said Kelly McElree. “All of them were good,” said Ron Walter. Ingredients they were able to isolate by taste included wild game meat and chicken.

Last year’s winner Duane Deis of Regina just made Moose Jaw in time, having been delayed by the snowstorm and a semi accident at Belle Plaine.

tivities, Elder told the Express. However, the organization believes it’s now safe to restart the initiative.

“It’s always good to show our citizens what we do. And then that way they can have insights into what the police are doing when they’re doing and why they’re doing it,” he stated.

Elder was born in Moose Jaw and participated in a citizens’ police academy when he was younger, which

although if there is more interest, the agency could hold another course in the fall. Therefore, this spring session will be a test run since it will also allow the agency to gauge participants’ interest in the six topics.

If people are uninterested in some areas or more interested in others, the police service will change the program in the future.

what works for people,” said Elder.

Anyone can apply to attend, from people who have no interest in policing as a job but just want an inside look to people who have their hearts set on becoming a cop, he continued. Meanwhile, the organization usually school students.

“We’re always looking to hire good people. We’re in the middle of a hiring process right now, so it might be a good chance for somebody who might be looking at policing as a career to come in and get a behind-the-scenes look at what policing looks like,” Elder added. For more information, email Elder or call 306-6947600.

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Elks member Sam Morrison serves chili samples: Ron Walter photos

Kelsi Gieni, left, Tracy Lichacz, right, with winning plaques

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Notes

The next Board of Police Commissioners meeting is Thursday, Apr 6, 2023

It’s still early in 2023, but the Moose Jaw Police Service is noticing some potential trends in certain crime categories, including an increase in the severity of offences.

“This is something we have seen. This is something that’s been happening for quite some time, not just here, but across the country,” Police Chief Rick Bourassa said during the March meeting of the Board of Police Commissioners while discussing the crime statistics report.

For example, he pointed to common assaults, with 34 incidents occurring from January to February 2022 compared to 10 incidents during the same period this year, a drop of 70.6 per cent.

However, the number of incidents of assault with a weapon — a more serious offence — has skyrocketed by 450 per cent. There were six incidents from January to February 2022 and 33 occurrences during the same period this year.

“What this tells us is we’re not seeing an increase in assaults, we’re seeing an increase in severity, which we have known for a few years,” said Bourassa. “Things really seemed to change for us and for a lot of people during the years of (pandemic) restrictions.”

The YTD data for crimes against the person for the years 2021, 2022 and 2023 show:

Homicide: 0 / 0 / 0

Attempted murder: 1 / 0 / 0

Assaults (sexual, common, with a weapon, aggravated, against police): 43 / 51 / 51

Robbery: 0 / 2 / 0

Total: 62 / 72 / 69; a 4.2-per-cent drop year-over-year

The overall goal should be to prevent crime instead of catching criminals because if police stop crime before it occurs, there is no need to punish offenders or suppress

Police seeing more severe crimes committed in the city, chief says

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

their rights, said Commissioner Doug Blanc while quoting from the board’s training handbook.

“An effective police department doesn’t have high arrest stats,” he added, “it is a community that has a low crime rate.”

Property crime

With crimes against property, there has been a YTD decrease of 21.6 per cent in all break-in categories, Bourassa said. The police will continue to track this category, especially since business break-ins — especially

The YTD crime statistics for break-ins — business, residence and other — in 2021, 2022 and 2023 show there were 49, 37 and 29 incidences, respectively.

YTD, the number of thefts over $5,000 have jumped to seven incidents from two last year. Furthermore, there have been 137 thefts under $5,000 YTD compared to 91 incidents last year.

The police are watching those categories, especially since many were for shoplifting or theft from homeowners’ yards, said Bourassa.

With motor vehicle thefts, the YTD data for 2021, 2022 and 2023 show 10, 12 and eight incidents, respectively.

With arson, the YTD data shows there were one, three and zero incidents, respectively.

With mischief under $5,000 (property damage), the YTD data shows there were 48, 30 and 42 incidents, respectively.

Total YTD crimes against property for 2021, 2022 and 2023 were 267, 230 and 284, respectively. Calls for service

Police service to use nearly $400K surplus for contract-related backpay

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Police Service is sitting on nearly $400,000 in total accumulated surplus money, most of which it expects to spend this year on collective agreement-related backpay.

The police service recorded a surplus of $229,202.20 last year, the result of under-spending in salaries and benreport presented during the recent Board of Police Commissioners meeting. The surplus could have been greater but was offset by higher costs for fuel, vehicle maintenance, equipment and information technology maintenance.

Besides this surplus, the organization carried over a surplus from 2021 of $170,275.01. After subtracting $4,341.52 in losses from investments, the total accumulated surplus the police service has is $395,135.69.

The organization plans to spend “much” of that monservice and the union reached a new collective bargaining agreement in December 2022, the report added.

It is city council that technically controls this surplustorically directed the money into reserves, Police Chief Rick Bourassa said during the meeting. While the police service wants to use the money for contract-related backpay, council could say no to that decision.cil about this surplus since that department manages the police service’s money, he continued. Council then usu-

ally makes a motion to direct that funding into reserves to

“What I’m worried about is all of a sudden it (the surplus) gets lost and in two years from now, we’re saying, ‘What about that surplus from 2021?’” said Commissioner Doug Blanc. “I just want to make sure that it’s (informing council) done properly … and done correctly.”

After the meeting, Bourassa told the media that the police service carried over the 2021 surplus because the organization did not use the money in 2022. Since it wasn’t spent, the money will go into the reserve until needed.

Neither the organization nor the board is concerned that council could direct that total accumulated surplus funding into reserves instead of toward backpay to mempolice agency will work with whatever decision those members make.

The police service began providing the board with a monthly update of its operating revenues and expenses late last year.

However, the organization has not provided a monthly update since February and likely won’t until April a new system that has prevented it from generating the monthly documents.

Police warn residents about phone scam involving money fraud

Police are warning residents to be aware of a phone scam where the caller claims to need money and then tells the victim to take cash and wait for more instructions.

The Moose Jaw Police Service announced on March 16 that it had been made aware of the scam af-one called them pretending to be a grandchild in need of support.

The caller indicates he or she needs money immediately and says the police will call the victim. Once information is obtained from the initial call, a

second call is placed to the victim from someone imwithdraw a large amount of money and await further directions.

“The Moose Jaw Police Service would like to remind the public not to provide personal information over the phone. If you ever question if you’re speakthe agency said.

For more information on fraud attempts, visit Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.

months of this year, which is 637 more than last year and 612 more than in 2021, Bourassa said.

“When we see an increase in calls without corresponding increases in the crimes report, it just speaks to related to crime,” he added. “The rest is related to other issues going on in the community … .”

These numbers shouldn’t be surprising since the police service “foreshadowed” that this would happen after pandemic restrictions ended and society reopened, said Commissioner Darrell Markin.

The pandemic added an extra dimension to policinging to more social issues, which also stresses existing resources, said board chair Mary Lee Booth.

“It’s (still) early in the year. We aren’t running around screaming with our hands in the air (that) the sky is falling,” chuckled Bourassa.

Other crimes

The YTD data for other types of crimes also show:

Impaired driving: 9 / 17 / 13

Failing to comply with a court order: 124 / 152/ 69

Threats: 7 / 14 / 7

· Domestic disputes: 31 / 16 / 9

Vehicle collisions over $1,000: 46 / 57 / 39

Drugs (cocaine, marijuana, meth, other): 11 / 7 / 6

VILLAGE OF CARONPORT NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL 2023

Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the Village of Caronport for the year 2023 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00am to 4:00pm on Monday to Friday, March 20th to April 28th, 2023.

A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against their assessment is required to file their notice of appeal in writing accompanied by a $300.00 fee for each assessment being appealed which will be returned if the appeal is successful, with: Kristen Tokaryk, Secretary of the Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd, Box 149, Meota, SK, S0M 1X0 by the 28th of April 2023.

Dated this 20th day of March, 2023

Gina Hallborg Assessor Village of Caronport 201 Valleyview Drive Box 550 Caronport, SK S0H 0S0

spectrum of investment portfolios — growth, dividend, conservative or speculative.

The Vancouver-based miner with a producing gold types. The company owns and operates the Fruta Del Norte gold mine in southeastern Peru with a large land package along a 90-mile long geological trend known for gold and copper deposits.

The mine with a remaining 13-year life has expanded production every year since startup in 2021, produc-

Last year gold production was 430,000 ounces. Expansion plans will increase that to between 430,000 and 460,000 ounces in 2024 with 465,000 ounces to 515,000 the following year.

New gold reserves last year were triple production

Total mining costs are among the lowest in the gold

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

After nearly four years of attempting to install a $2-million software program, city hall has made solid progressish.

City hall purchased a program in 2019 called Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), which allows organizations to manage day-to-day business activities such as accounting, procurement, project management, risk management and compliance, and supply chain operations.

Since then, the municipality has been working out

Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997, Notice is hereby given that 102072960 Saskatchewan Ltd has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) for a Special Use - General Salon/Spa permit to sell alcohol in the premises known as Tommy Guns Original Barbershop Unit #50 - 450 B Thatcher Dr E Moose Jaw SK S6H 6M3 Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with SLGA not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this notice.

Every person filing a written objection with SLGA shall state their name, address and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objection(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number. Frivolous, vexatious or competition-based objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing.

Write to:

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority

Box 5054

Regina Sk S4P 3M3

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF CARON NO. 162

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nomination of candidates for the office of:

Councillor for Division No. 2 will be received by the undersigned at the municipal office during normal office hours and on Wednesday April 26, 2023, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm local time.

Nomination forms may be obtained from the municipal office. Dated this 21st day of March, 2023.

John Morris

By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

sector at $870 US per ounce.

Lundin is one of the highest dividend payers in the gold mining sector at 26 cents annually yielding just over two per cent on current share price of $13.78 on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Shares are also listed in Stockholm and the U.S. over-the-counter market

Three deposits near the underground mine are being prepared for production. Another six potential targets are being explored by drills. This just represents a fraction of the land under Lundin control.

Management is a crucial factor in evaluation of any company for investment.

Lundin Gold is controlled by the Lundin family ofing and operating mines all across the world base metals miners, one diamond operation and Lundin Gold.

Lundin founder Adolph Lundin, known for his Midas touch in mining circles, has died but family and ex-

perienced management operates the group.

At year-end Lundin has $336 million cash to fund

Debt at $667.9 million was reduced by $73 million during the year. and have plenty of room to grow.

Operating in a Latin American country may involve political issues but Peru is a friendly mining jurisdiction with export of mineral production only exceeded by oil and bananas.

Lundin claims a strong environmental policy with low emissions and most of the power requirements generated by hydro plants.

This is a stock to watch for long-term growth as well as a pop in gold prices.

CAUTION: Remember when investing, consult your adviser and do your homework before buying any security. Bizworld does not recommend investments. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

the bugs and attempting to meld the previous system with the new one.

However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, based on information city administration presented during the March 13 regular city council meeting as part of the 2022 fourth-quarter update.

Taxation system

Implementing the taxation system has gone well, with the city focusing on cleaning up the database before Acker said. The system was supposed to launch on Feb. 1, but the service provider — Central Square — could not work discounts into the new system, so the go-live date was pushed to April 1.

However, the service provider still has several soft-counts, duplicate tax base issues, phase-in, and several reports and forms, including assessment and tax notices.

Another complicating factor is that the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) has not provided the municipality with the 2023 preliminary assessment roll, which will delay the assessment notice and tax notice processes.

“At this point, the plan is to complete the assessment notices in the old system and potentially go live with the new system for tax notices, but this will be dependent on Acker said.

Virtual City Hall

The city rolled out a Virtual City Hall program in which allowed them to use the system and uncover is-

Those modules include:

Purchasing/accounts payable is functional, but staff needed to address how purchase orders and standing purchase orders are completed

Inventory is functional; everything is now fully digital

· Accounts receivable has been tested, but the city isable jobs

Job costing is functional, although the module is complex and staff are spending considerable time ironing out processes

Fixed assets: Implementation is still ongoing Cash management: Implementation is underway, with the module consisting of Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) for supplier payments and bank reconciliations -

roll) and Central Square are still in development

Meanwhile, since August, the city has installed roughly 1,700 smart water meters as part of its $7 million program, which is providing the municipality withduce monthly utility billings.

The city has made good progress with the project overall, while it has been transformational for the City of Moose Jaw, he continued. Once the new system is fully operational, everything will be electronic and very little will be done with paper.

lowed by council and the public. Business Central implementation

“(Overall), a tremendous transformation from where we were to where we are now. However, there is still a will be working to maximize that system to make it as

Jason G. Antonio - Moose

Milne Place, clearing the way for the warming centre to

After city council approved a motion during its Feb. 27 meeting to terminate its lease agreements with the

tension, GDR — city administration began working with

to the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. Meanwhile, GDR advised city hall on March 3 that it would vacate the premises by March 31 since it had se-

ment, the municipality can continue the process for the

Jaw Express

a supported transition housing location with an after-hours

City administration presented an update about the lease agreements and warming centre during the March 13 regular council meeting.

The Downtown Moose Jaw Association has questions about the new warming centre and wants to further discuss the project, Coun. Heather Eby said, so it plans to meet with Square One on March 16 to acquire answers to address its concerns.

Although the warming centre will

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

Many business owners had hoped SAMA would conduct a secondary audit of its property assessment practices, but the organization has denied the request because there is allegedly no need for one.

The Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) recently sent city manager Jim Puffalt two letters explaining why it wouldn’t pursue the request. One reason is that the agency’s board decided not to undertake a secondary audit.

Furthermore, SAMA’s preliminary investigation of the income model reviewed the data and calculations for errors and to ensure it correctly followed the market value handbook. Both inquiries determined there were no issues requiring a secondary audit.

Instead, SAMA said Moose Jaw’s main concern is with how separate capitalization (cap) rates were applied to commercial properties, so a secondary audit would not handle that issue — the municipality must appeal to the Saskatchewan Municipal Board.

The letter added that the secondary audit is not another level of review that ratepayers, municipalities or SAMA assessment services can access when their appeals are unsuccessful.

SAMA denies council’s request for secondary audit of property assessment practices

The other letter indicated SAMA would present during the March 27 executive committee meeting to discuss changes to the assessment model and provide an analysis of additional property sales data.

SAMA also plans to review the 2022 appeal results to determine if changes are required to the 2023 valuation models.

City council received both letters during its March 13 regular meeting. report; councillors Jamey Logan and Kim Robinson were opposed.

Council also gave three unanimous readings to the assessment preparation extension bylaw, giving city hall until May 1 to produce the 2023 property assessment roll. SAMA is supposed to submit the roll by Jan. 31, but because of delays in incorporating new sales data into the assessments, the agency submitted the roll on March 10.

Council discussion

“I can’t say I didn’t see this (denial bit arrogant that they have answered us by saying, ‘There was no valid appeal, so we (SAMA) must be right,’” said Robinson. “But I can talk to anybody — including several people at this table right now — who say there is something wrong.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

“So to keep peeing on my leg and telling me it’s raining is not working for me.”

SAMA provides a contract service, but since council and city hall are unhappy with that service, Robinson wondered why they continued to use the agency. He also the situation.

“If the legislation says we can’t demand an audit, why is this so wonky? the legislation,” he added. “If I had my druthers, I’d tell these guys to get it straight-

While it’s standard practice for the agency to review its previous year’s appeal results and potentially change the current year’s valuation models, Coun. Doug Blanc wondered whether SAMA would also change the property assessment results of businesses that didn’t appeal.

“Because if they don’t look at them all, that leaves a number of businesses and residential (homeowners) out,” he added.

Based on the letter, cap rates are the real problem, which means the agency -

Froese said.

“Even other cities don’t have this many. I understand they can validate

that, but one of the key issues that’s been brought before us is the use of multiple cap rates that is causing confusion in our community,” she continued.

“I’m not sure how they can answer that. But somewhere along the way, we need to hear back from them because it just doesn’t seem to be satisfying this process.”

Coun. Dawn Luhning, a SAMA board member, told council that she recused herself from that denial vote because she was Froese’s number and said there are nine Saskatchewan municipalities also have multiple rates.

“I urge my colleagues to be careful about what you say about things that maybe you don’t know all the information on … ,” said Luhning. “They (SAMA) are trying to get to council and get the information to us. … they are doing their best to get here.”

The actual number of property cap rates in Moose Jaw is 17, according to previous data supplied by business owners Bernie Dombowsky and Kristy Van Slyck. In comparison, Regina has one cap rate for all property types.

City honours winners of 2022 municipal heritage awards program

City council has acknowledged the winners of the 2022 Moose Jaw Municipal Heritage Awards program and commended them for their work conserving the heritage value of their properties.

Mayor Clive Tolley and Coun. Crystal Froese presented the recipients with their awards during the March 13 meeting. The heritage advisory committee collected the nominations of citizens and heritage properties and voted on the award nominees.

“We’re happy to present our heritage awards today,” Froese said.

This year’s award winners are:

“The Ten Commandments Block” of homes on the east side of the 1000 block of Connaught Avenue for collection of distinction (a new category)

Rene and Rosalie Marcil at 24 Main Street North (MAD 24 Restaurant, formerly National Café) for stewardship

· Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Moose Jaw campus building at 600 Saskatch-

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

ewan Street for stewardship

The Catholic Women’s League at St. Joseph’s Parish for advocacy/heritage education

Brent Boechler at 44 Fairford Street West (Gold Key Investments Inc.) for restoration

The Ten Commandments Block was built in the 1930s and received its moniker because 10 homes are identical single-family dwellings, a council report explained.

have provided affordable housing for decades.

Homeowners have put their mark on each house over the years through renovations and remodelling, but all 10 units retain a similar front façade.

When the Marcils closed the National Café several years ago, an out-of-province antique dealer inquired about purchasing the sign, but they declined since they thought it belonged in Moose Jaw, the re-

port said. They plan to keep the sign even working again.

The couple is committed to maintaining the business’ heritage aspect since the sign adds to the downtown’s unique look.

In 1959, the Saskatchewan Technical Institute acquired possession of the former teacher’s college in Moose Jaw. Then on Sept. 5, 1959, the institute opened the building with 26 employees and 526 students enrolled in technology, industrial, apprenticeship, unemployed training and upgrading programs, the report continued.

While the organization has changed its name and expanded its mandate over the decades, the building and its services have remained a constant presence.

Last year marked the centennial of St. Joseph’s Catholic Women’s League (CWL), and to celebrate its past, the group hosted a tea on June 11, 2022, featuring over 80 items that included wedding dress-

gowns — including one from Mae Wilson — and other items dating back to 1895, the report said.

The league also hosted a fashion show of wedding gowns from every decade dating back to 1935, with an accompanying slide show that gave a brief history of the gowns, the church and how weddings have changed since the 1920s. All the brides connected to the gowns were married in the Moose Jaw area or had ties to the community.

The former Moose Jaw Times-Herald building was built in 1953, and 69 years later, businessman Boechler purchased the building and constructed a new marquis sign that resembles the original one, the council report said.

While the interior has undergone extensive renovations, the engineering of a new entrance on the east side — which affected the decades-old mural — has left the façade untouched, ensuring the building’s heritage value remains.

The next REGULAR council meeting is MONDAY, MAR 27.

Coun. Crystal Froese (left) and Mayor Clive Tolley present a plaque to the building owner of MAD 24 Restaurant (formerly National Café) as part of the 2022 municipal heritage awards program. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Coun. Crystal Froese (left) and Mayor Clive Tolley present a plaque to a representative from Saskatchewan Polytechnic Moose Jaw campus as part of the 2022 municipal heritage awards program. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Coun. Crystal Froese (left) and Mayor Clive Tolley present a plaque to a representative from St. Joseph Parish’s Catholic Women’s League as part of the 2022 municipal heritage awards program.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Coun. Crystal Froese (left) and Mayor Clive Tolley present a plaque to a representative from Gold Key Investments Inc. as part of the 2022 municipal heritage awards program.

by Jason G. Antonio

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

The next REGULAR council meeting is MONDAY, MAR 27.

The Moose Jaw and District Fire Department was busier last year compared to the previous two years, while its call volume has now returned to almost pre-pandemic levels.

ter report presented during the recent city council meeting. The emergency organization successfully hosted two days of open houses that saw eight schools — comprised through safety education or public events from October to December last year. In comparison, that number was the same time in 2020. through safety education or public events last year, the

Fire dept. call volumes in 2022 returned to pre-pandemic levels, report says

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

report said.

presentations at school assemblies/preschools/daycares.

for the entire year.

included:

Hazmat response: 6

· Electrical: 65 -

the federal department says this is the last allowable extension.

Water main breaks in 2022 were similar to 2021, data shows

Replacing cast iron water mains is paying dividends for the City of Moose Jaw, as the number of water main to previous years.

ed phase VII of the cast iron water main replacement pro“This year has been very good so far,” city manager progress.”

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

because city hall is still waiting for the frost to leave the ground.

Coun. Crystal Froese expressed appreciation for how well the cast iron water main replacement program was

a relief as we carry on with that project.” HotSpot parking app app for nearly two years, giving motorists an alternative

launching the app for transit users last September, the city

months.

With data now available, Froese wondered if city administration could compare how much money the city meters.

Meanwhile, he did not have similar transit data since the app was still a new service.

have signed onto the transit app, which is pretty promising,” said Froese.

Those numbers are promising, and while the app for transit is still relatively new, city hall hopes to see it grow, replied Stephanson.

Most union grievances against city relate to discipline issues, report shows

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

relate to discipline that city hall issued against employees; discipline is based on thorough investigations of concerns.

said.

during the same period, a report shows.

Of the grievances that CUPE initiated between Octopresented during the recent city council meeting. Meantwo grievances that were already active. active grievances, which is an increase of six from the

The fact most grievances relate to discipline “is not completely unsurprising” because those issues come in waves, HR director T.J. Karwandy explained in response

low when disciplinary sanctions are handed out to staff. Software pilot project

ipating in a “diversity software” pilot project in partnership with local company Vize Labs, the report showed. A group of city staff is trialling a software program focused on “diversity and inclusion” in communications.

This software is an add-on to Microsoft Teams and if their terminology is not inclusive and suggests alternative wording, Karwandy said in response to another

Karwandy thought this pilot project was a “win-win” for both parties because the city could test it and the com-

Workforce demographics

The top three departments with the most staff in-

Meanwhile, demographic numbers show that: with the city

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

Complaints about garbage were the No. 1 issue the public works and utilities department handled during the fourth quarter of last year, followed by winter maintenance and general upkeep of streets and roads.

The department received 439 requests for garbage service issues from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, of which it addressed 435 issues for a 99.1-per-cent resolution rate, the data show.

Meanwhile, public works received 412 calls about winter maintenance and addressed 408 issues for a 99-per-cent completion rate, while it received 317 calls about streets and roads and addressed 306 issues for a 96.5-per-cent resolution rate.

The department received a total of 1,530 calls for service — about animal control, garbage, parking meters, recycling, sewers, sidewalks, streets and roads, transit,

City resolved 99% of garbage complaints in Q4

2022, says report

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

water and winter maintenance — during Q4 and resolved 1,504 of them, for a 98.3-per-cent success rate.

The data was part of a report that city administration presented during the recent city council meeting.

Water and sewer

The department treated 237.7 million imperial gallons of wastewater from October to December 2022, while it treated 226.71 million imperial gallons of [potable] water during the same period, the data showed.

In comparison, those numbers in 2021 were 226.78 million imperial gallons and 229.77 million imperial gallons, respectively.

One imperial gallon is 4.5 litres.

Solid waste

The city diverted 16.1 per cent of all materials from

year, compared to 17.3 per cent of all materials diverted during Q4 2021, the report said.

Between bulk intake and curbside pickup, Moose Jaw recycled a total of 328,468 kilograms during the fourth quarter, of which 316,444 kgs were allowed.

In comparison, during the same period in 2021, 345,921 kgs were recycled and 334,357 kgs were allowed. garbage from commercial, private and residential customers during Q4 2022, compared to 14,571.81 tonnes during Q4 2021.

The report indicated that the Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Plant sent 3,832 fewer tonnes of sludge during the quarter as part of its plant upgrades, the report said. have been up 26.5 per cent quarter over quarter.

Number of cremation burials tripled traditional burials in 2022, data says

Cremation burials continue to be more popular in Moose Jaw than regular casket burials, as there were nearly three times as many cremations last year as there were regular funerals, data shows.

The number of traditional burials has hovered around the same for the last few years, with 52 such events in 2019, 46 in 2020, 37 in 2021 and 59 last year.

In comparison, with cremation burials, there were 125 such events in 2019, 101 in 2020, 136 in 2021 and 173 last year.

The data was part of a report about city department’s fourth-quarter activities that city council received during its recent meeting. Information about burials was part of the overall activities of the parks and recreation department.

Requests for service

The number of city employees injured on the job or who experienced motor vehicle incidents last year increased compared to 2021, although the number of property damage incidents decreased.

From Oct. 1 to Dec. 31, 2022, eight city workers were injured on the job, whether for a slip, trip or fall; overexertion; being caught in, by or between something; allergens; sprains; or environmental, according to a fourth-quarter report presented during the March 13 city council meeting.

There were also four employees who required medical aid and six who had lost-time incidents, while there was a total of 45 days lost.

In comparison, 16 municipal employees injured required medical aid. However, there were zero lost-time incidents or days lost.

For all of 2022 (year-to-date, YTD), there were 56 injuries, 19 instances of medical aid, 12 lost-time inci

Jason G. Antonio -

Parks and rec received 1,402 total requests for service last year and resolved 1,066 incidents for a 76-percent success rate. The two biggest areas of concern for residents were forestry problems (899 requests) and parks and green spaces (244).

In comparison, the department received 1,013 total service requests in 2021 and resolved 925 for a 91-percent success rate.

Attendance numbers

The fourth-quarter report showed 106,908 people attended the Kinsmen Sportsplex pool last year, compared to 78,111 two years ago, 51,441 in 2020 and 125,146 in 2019.

The total number of aquatic memberships last year was 343, compared to 343 two years ago, 112 in 2020 and 140 in 2019.

Furthermore, there were 864 total recreation pass memberships last year, compared to 656 two years ago, 527 in 2020 and 682 in 2019.

Also, there were 1,081 Yara Centre memberships taken out last year, compared to 941 in 2021, 613 in 2020 and 1,442 in 2019.

Hockey teams booked a total of 4,327.25 hours across all three arenas — Bert Hunt, Wally Boschuk and Kinsmen — last year, compared to 2,921.50 hours in 2021, 3,200.50 in 2020 and 4,051 in 2019, the report said. Also, teams and groups booked a total of 4,253 hours for the Yara Centre turf, compared to 891 hours two years ago, 1,295 three years ago and 2,782 hours in 2019.

Meanwhile, the total drop-in attendance at Yara Centre last year was 52,095, compared to 48,249 two years ago, 17,476 three years ago and 17,332 people in 2019.

2021, those numbers were 42, 14, zero, and zero, respectively.

Meanwhile, for 2022 YTD, there were 36 total motor vehicle incidents involving city workers, along with six collisions, six incidents of the public being at fault, four reversing issues, and three environmental incidents (poor roads).

In comparison, in 2021, those numbers were, respec-

Also, there were 39 total incidents of property damage last year compared to 44 in 2021, while there were 10 dangerous occurrences last year versus eight in 2021, the report added.

reduce such incidents, but it seems the data has substantially increased, Coun. Jamey Logan said. He wondered if that was simply due to more reporting versus an actual increase in safety problems.

Municipal employees are reporting more incidents, but there has also been an increase in disciplinary issues

— especially with vehicles backing into things — that city administration is handling, said city manager Jim Puffalt. -

tors and managers continue to work on addressing preventable issues, he added.

Several factors contribute to these higher safety numbers, said human resources director T.J. Karwandy. For example, safety becomes top of mind for staff the more they are on the job site. This leads to more reporting, which — while counterintuitive — is positive since managers want employees to bring forward those issues.

“There are some culpable incidents happening. There doesn’t seem to be a particular trend or driver in that,” he continued. “We hope to address those … (with) safety talks and targeted policy updates (and) education sessions that will hopefully raise awareness that.

“So we’re addressing them (safety incidents) as they come up. It’s a multifaceted problem.”

Moose Jaw Express

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

shelves at Food Bank

for Moose Jaw and District Food Bank

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The small mountain of food on display when walking up to the Centennial Auditorium at Peacock Collegiate on Sunday night said all one needed to know about the success of the 2023 edition of the Dance for Hunger Showcase.

Once again, performers and supporters of Dance Images by BJ had come through, once again donating over a ton of non-perishable food items for the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.

If it starts to sound like a broken record at any point, that’s for good reason -- the event has been a season-opening highlight for the local dance studio for many years now and offers an excellent chance for their youngsters to build their community spirit while helping those in need.

“It’s such a way for our kids to be on the stage and performing, kicking off our competition season and giving back to the community,” said Shauna Bzdel with Dance Images. “I think that’s something that’s really important, instilling those values into our kids and helping them appreciate what they have. It’s such an easy thing to do but it makes such a big difference.”

The support from the dancers and event patrons alike helps make Dance for Hunger

what it is. Performers spend the weekend rehearsing and preparing for the Showcase, gathering food at the same time. Then patrons on the night of the show add to the massive stock of items, creating a huge donation that is always appreciated.

“We’ve had another great turnout from the community and a lot of donations, and while we like to think we don’t have that need in the community, it’s actually growing,” Bzdel said. “To see so much support

from our dance families and everybody else is amazing.”

Of course, there’s the Showcase portion of the whole thing, with hundreds of fans at what Dance Images has to offer this season.

“The kids have been working hard, it was a great weekend for our group rehearsals and tonight we get to wrap it all up and show everyone what we can do on stage,” Bzdel said.

The Showcase also had a new wrinkle this year, as members of the Moose Jaw chapter of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets showed up to help load the donated items into the Food Bank’s van. Needless to say, the help was much appreciated.

“It’s nice to have those kids involved, and involved in different things,” Bzdel said. “Whether it’s dancing or cadets, having them become active commuto help the community and give back is always great to see.”

Now, it’s time for the competition season proper to begin.

Dance Images by BJ will host their 37th annual Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival this coming weekend, with the three-day event featuring 11 province this season.

Action kicks off on Friday, Mar. 24 and runs through Sunday, Mar. 26 at the Peacock auditorium, with sessions running at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Fans are welcome, and be sure to search for Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival on Facebook for the latest information.

Southwest Saskatchewan home to Earth’s largest glacial push hills

The Dirt Hills and neighbouring Cactus Hills are the largest glacial push slopes in the world and formed more than 10,000 years ago as the glaciers moved north.

The advancing ice sheet acted like a bulldozer, pushing, moving, and uplifting earth until it ran into the upward slope of the escarpment. The Dirt Hills are composed mostly of bedrock and drift and were stacked to form a single block 215 metres (705 ft) thick.

The moraine is almost 1,000 square kilometres (390 square miles) in size with a height of 880 metres (2,890 ft) above sea level, while both major hills form an amphitheatre-shaped landform.

These hills run from the Village of Avonlea’s Blue Hills west to the Cactus Hills near the Village of Briercrest and south to the Dirt Hills around the Hamlet of Spring Valley.

The Dirt Hills region is covered with interesting sights, from the ridges and hills to deep coulees and wildlife.

There are also the Wood Mountain and Fort Qu’Appelle Trails, Oro Lake — saltier than the Dead Sea — and the routes the North West Mounted Police (NWMP) took in 1874 while travelling to their head-

quarters in Fort McLeod, North-West Territories (now southern Alberta).

Federal surveyors in the 1880s iden-

a line between Cypress Hills and the hills in Ontario.

In 1886, Moose Jaw-area homesteader Thomas McWilliams discovered clay northeast of Dirt Hills while berry picking and looking for lost cattle. Recognizing the value of this clay, he laid claim to the land and moved his family there to a new

homestead.

McWilliams also began mining the reClaybank clay. In 1914, a brick plant was built and began selling bricks throughout Canada and the United States. This location is now the Claybank Brick Plant National Historic Site.

Several years ago, residents of Dirt and importance of connecting nature and culture. They developed the Spring Valley and District Interpretive Centre and located it in the hamlet’s historic Artesian School.

The centre welcomes tourists and conducts guided tours of the area while explaining the region’s many features. The tours include panoramic views, a trip to Oro Lake, and visits to a bison jump and pioneer’s stone home.

Visitors should also view the over 100-year-old Roman Catholic Church in the hamlet with its unique plaster Stations of the Cross.

The centre is open by appointment from Monday, May 15 to Friday, Sept. 15. To arrange a tour, call 306-475-2542 or 306-630-6060 or email gmbeitel@hotmail.com.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Spring Valley’s Sugar Loaf Hill. Photo courtesy Tourism Saskatchewan

Landscape around Spring Valley. Photo courtesy Tourism Saskatchewan Spring Valley and District Interpretive Centre and Area. Photo courtesy Tourism Saskatchewan

Dance Images by BJ performers are joined by members of the Moose Jaw branch of the Royal Canadian Army Cadets for a photo during the Dance for Hunger Showcase.

New music from local band Highwind focuses on life, death, grief

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

It’s been seven years since the band Highwind released new music, but the longtime veterans of Moose Jaw’s music scene have released a new extended play (EP) record with six catchy tracks.

group has produced since 2016 when it released the full-length album “Cellar Door.” After that, the group took a four-year break — focusing on school and life — before reconnecting in 2020.

The members wrote the songs and recorded the EP in 2022 and released it this past February.

The new album sees the group — an alternative rock-emo-pop-punk quartet — explore topics of life and death. The theme that runs through the six-song, 18-minute EP is about losing a loved one, experiencing grief, and the sick person comforting the grieving lover.

The group is composed of Troy Waggoner (drummer), Chase Rysavy (vocals and guitar), Eric Taylor (bass) and new member Ehren Pfeifer (lead guitar). Visit https://linktr.ee/highwindmusic to listen to the songs.

“We’re really proud of (the new EP),” Taylor told the Express.

“Really excited, really proud (and we’ve ever made,” said Rysavy. “Probably the best thing I’ve ever been a part of. All of us are pretty jacked up on the whole thing.”

This is the best music they’ve ever produced because of the subject matter and how everything ties together, Rysavy continued. The group has been a trio since starting in 2014, but adding Toronto-based

Farmland prices increases beat high

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Cultivated farmland values across Canada kept pace increase.

The annual Farm Credit Canada farmland values report notes the increase came “amid strong farm income, elevated input prices and rising interest rates.

“The demand for farmland remained robust and the supply of farmland available for sale continued to be strong.”

The report says farmland values usually take time to adjust to economic changes but record prices for

Saskatchewan farmland prices averaged 14.2 per cent increase last year with variation by region up to 50 per cent.

Farmland values in this province have increased almost one-third in three years.

Leading the increase was the northeast region at 24.2 per cent with prices ranging from $1,400 to $4,200 an acre.

Second largest increase was in the west-central region at 17.2 per cent ranging from $1,400 an acre to $4,200. Limited parcels were sold with heavy clay fetching the most.

The east-central region saw a 13.4 per cent increase with ranges from $1,300 to $3,600 an acre from limited parcels for sale.

The southeast region which includes Moose Jaw averaged a 13.3 per cent increase to $2,500, ranging from $1,300 to $5,200.

The southwest region averaged $2,200 with a range of $1,300 to $5,200. The highest prices were near the U.S. border.

Irrigated land, located mostly in the west-central and southwest regions, increased 26 per cent with prices ranging from $5,700 an acre to $8,000.

Pasture land averaged a 2.8 per cent increase with the southeast running 11.9 per cent to $1,000 an acre. Across most of Saskatchewan pasture land averaged $700 to $800 an acre.

The survey includes about 90 per cent of sales. The are excluded to ensure typical prices. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Pfeifer helped enhance their sound since he wrote some of the EP’s “coolest stuff.”

The six songs include “Weighing you down,” “At what cost,” “I’m making amends,” “I feel helpless,” “In hospice” song is played acoustically and explains the story’s ending. The group has released its music on several platforms, including Spotify. Taylor noted that that platform has an app to tell bands from where people are listening to their music. They have discovered that they have more listeners in the United Kingdom and the United States than Canada.

The band worked on many songs during the pandemic and plans to release those when they put out a full-length album, said Rysavy. The members focused on cleaning up these six songs after identifying them as the ones for the EP.

“There was one song on this EP that we wrote that I was ready to throw in the the lyrics for,” he continued. “But it all worked out and it’s our most played song, which is kind of funny.”

Rysavy added, “I think we write stuff that’s pretty darn heckin’ good.”

Highwind has already released one music video for “Weighing you down.” Well-known Moose Jaw director Dustan Bootleg Barbers and South Hill Bowling Centre.

Meanwhile, the group recently spenteos, with a dancer from the Doris Sitter School of Dance participating in one video and the band members dressing up in “Lord of the Rings” costumes and having fun at the Comic Book Guy Pop Culture Shop.

The group has “lucked out” because it has caught the attention of Toronto music executive Eric Alper, who has a Sirius XM channel and has started working with the group, said Taylor.

“He’s a publicist, so he’s going to try and shop our name and get our sound take the next step in getting our name out there,” the bassist remarked.

“Gotta sell yourself a little bit. That’s why I started wearing lower-cut shirts,” laughed Rysavy. “(Have to show) a little ankle.”

Members of the band Highwind include Eric Taylor, Chase Rysavy, Troy Waggoner and Ehren Pfeifer. Photo courtesy Highwind

The cover of Highwind’s new EP, “Final Words.” Photo courtesy Highwind

By Patricia Hanbidge

Sustainable Food P roduction

There is a growing trend of people who want to grow at least some of the food they consume. There is a huge spin off to this trend as if we access a more local food supply chain this will in turn help to make our world a more sustainable place to live. Governments, businesses and societies together with the United Nations are in the process of achieving the objectives of the Sustainable and indivisible agenda calls for action to end poverty, protect the planet and improve the lives and prospects of everyone, everywhere.

One of the goals of this agenda is to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. As spring is just around the corner, it might just be the perfect time to make an individual effort thinking about what you could grow this spring and if there is anyone you can take along on your journey. Remember, that it is not necessary to have a large space or expensive equipment in order to achieve

your goal.

For all of us growing our own fruits and vegetables has many advantages. We have close access to fresh and local food that is raised in most cases without any pesticides and tastes insanely good! It is also true that fruits and vegetables that were grown decades ago were richer in vitamins and minerals, than most of what we consume today. This disturbing trend is due in part to soil depletion, as modern, intensive cropping has stripped increasing amounts of nutrient from the soil which in turn produces less nutrient rich food. In a smaller garden, that is tended and cherished by a home gardener, produce tastes better than that which is produced more quickly in

a large grow operation. -

also offer us is other compounds that prevent a number of life threatening diseases which cannot be substituted with dietary supplements. So…as spring is just around the corner, let’s address what we can plan to grow this growing season.

My suggestion is to be innovative in what you wish to grow. Some good ideas include a variety of types of lettuce. They germinate quite quickly and can be harvested before too long, ensuring that you and those who are close to you can enjoy fresh home grown lettuce rather quickly. Other ideas will depend on your palette but arugula, corn salad, greens like amaranth, atriplex, beet, chard, choho, claytonia, cress, mibuna, mustard and kale are all fun to grow and great to eat!

Hippocrates proclaimed almost 2500 years ago: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” We love the idea that food can be the answer to our health and that if we eat nutritious food, we will not need professionals also concur that if we heap our plates with fresh fruits and vegetables, we will be closer to optimum health. May your garden be a plentiful provider!

Watch for the next series of articles devoted to growing good, healthy food in containers, on balconies and some fruit trees and shrubs that grow well in our climate.

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort.com; on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort. Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?

Veterans’ groups excited for banner project that will help enhance remembrance

Veterans’ groups are thrilled with a new city project that will see banners featuring the faces of soldiers, sailors and airmen hanging from streetlights to help promote and enhance remembrance.

The heritage advisory committee recently launched the Veterans Banner Program, an initiative that allows residents to recognize veterans past and present who served Canada — and, in some cases, gave their lives — so citizens could enjoy the rights and freedoms accorded to them in a democracy.

A maximum of 40 banners will be placed on streetlights along Main Street and downtown for November. The visual reminders are expected to promote remembrance, educate students and citizens and ensure remembrance for future generations.

More info can be found at www.moosejaw.ca/veteranbanners.

“It’s a great thing … especially during Remembrance Week,” said Bob Travale, president of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59. “That’s quite an initiative … . I’m just really pleased.”

Several committee members approached the orga-

nization a year ago to discuss the project and suggested some examples of pictures for the downtown banners, he continued. The legion wholeheartedly supported the idea and agreed to purchase a banner.

Travale thought the banners would help promote remembrance, while the faces of military personnel would emotionally affect residents.

He pointed out that many municipalities in Ontario and British Columbia run similar programs to make their residents there have enthusiastically accepted those initiatives.

Some communities in Saskatchewan that already hang banners to honour veterans include Weyburn, the Battlefords, Carlyle, Estevan, Norquay, Yorkton, Kamsack and St. Walburg.

This project also has “quite a lot” of meaning for the legion president since he is a veteran and served many years in the military.

“You’re always proud when somebody takes up the initiative to remember the veterans of years ago who also, people that served in the military.”

While November is the “perfect” time to hang the banners, the legion president also thought the city should month. That event sees veterans’ groups placing Canadianeteries and then holding a ceremony at Rosedale.

This banner depicts Pte. Lee Crane of Weyburn, who died in the First World War. Moose Jaw will soon have its own veterans’ banners hanging from streetlight poles. Photo courtesy Weyburn Review

“Remembrance Week would be right for now, but if they wanted to keep them up longer, oh yeah, that’s a positive,” Travale added.

Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) Club No. 252, has been pushing his members to become involved in sponsoring banners, including families who have lost sons in the wars.

“I really love that banner project. It will bring awareness … . I say, let’s get them up a month or two before Rehe said. “We should honour our guys every day.”

Purington thought hanging banners with the faces of young men and boys who fought and — sometimes — died in war would be great. He recalled participating in and noticing that many boys were only 20 when they died.

“And that really hit home with me. And that really set me straight to what these guys really stood for,” he continued. “A lot of these families lose their children very young … . We don’t recognize these guys enough.”

The ANAVETS president added that he and his organization are 100-per-cent in favour of the initiative.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Warriors are undoubtedly happy to see Connor Bedard and the Regina Pats in their rearview mirror.

To a certain extent.

Sure, having to deal with the high-scoring phenom isn’t a pleasant experience -- especially when Bedard is going like he was this past weekend -- but one look in the stands on Saturday and the Warriors might wish they could play the Pats every night.

More than 4,900 fans packed the Moose Jaw Events Centre to see Bedard went on to a 7-3 victory. One night earlier in Regina, the shoe was on the other foot, as the Warriors rolled to a 9-5 victory in front of a capacity crowd of 6,500.

The common theme through both games was the number of chances the Warriors generated. While a lot of them turned into goals on Friday, Moose Jawiad opportunities in the rematch.

“I think when we go back and look at the chances both for an against we’ll be a little bit disappointed in the ones we didn’t capitalize on,” Warriors assistant coach Gord Burnett said in the Ultimate Fan Zone postgame interview with James Gallo. “We worked hard to create the chances, and to work that hard and miss the net, it’s always tough to watch. Then the chances we gave up, they weren’t terrible, when we look back they won’t be as bad as we think.”

One thing that’s for certain is Bedard had himself another incredible weekend.

All told, it would add up to six goals and 10 points in two games -- including back-to-back hat tricks -- for the defacto

“We played a solid game, that’s a good team over there and yesterday we made a few too many mistakes and gave them a lot of scoring chances,” Bedard said after Saturday’s contest. ”So today it was good to get back out there and have a good game and help the team win.”

Martin Rysavy, Tate Schofer and Jag-

ger Firkus scored for the Warriors, who and trailed 5-3 through two periods.

Braxton Whitehead, Zack Stringer, Parker Berge and former Warrior Riley Ginnell also scored for the Pats Saturday.

aside 45 shots in the win, while Jackson Unger had 16 saves for the Warriors.

With Bedard having likely played his last game at the Moose Jaw Events Centre, he looked back at the rivalry between the two teams with a bit of fondness.

“They’ve always been good games,

we’ve had some fun and it’s obviously been a pretty big rivalry,” Bedard said. “And you never know, we might even see them in the playoffs.”

One night earlier, it looked at points like the Warriors just couldn’t miss.

After falling behind early, Moose Jaw scored six straight goals to build a 6-1 lead and then answered any response the Pats had to maintain their comfortable edge.

Firkus had a hat trick and four points to lead the assault, while the rest of the offence was balanced through the line-up -- Ryder Korczak and Atley Calvert each had a goal and two assists while Eric AlaMartin Rysavy had their other markers. Mateychuk had a pair of helpers. way.

playoffs. Moose Jaw needs a single point remaining games.

The Warriors are back in action on Wednesday night when they travel to Win-

nale when they host the Saskatoon Blades.

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Events Centre was at maximum capacity for Connor Bedard’s

The Moose Jaw Carpet One Mavericks 2 are off to the Saskatchewan Female Hock-ries.

Madeline Hopkinson scored the game-winning goal at the 8:59 mark of the second overtime period to give the Mavericks a 4-3 victory over the Western Prairie Unity in the third and deciding game of the Red Knight Arena.

The win gave the Mavericks the SFHL West Division Championship and came on the heels of a 4-3 overtime loss in the series opener in Unity on Wednesday, Mar. 15 and a 5-2 victory in Game 2 at the Bert Hunt on Thursday, Mar. 16.

As the score would indicate, things were plenty interesting in Game 3.

Western Prairie scored the lone goal Allora Smith and Brooklyn Loney scored for Moose Jaw in the second as the two pair each.

Prairie would tie things up to send the proceedings to overtime and set up Hopkinson’s heroics.

Blair Bennett was in goal for the win, Ashlyn Brown took the loss.

Taryn Pernitsky scored twice for Unity, Ayla Sperle had their other goal.

With their league championship hopes on the line in Game 2, the Mavericks wasted little time getting things going, as Loney scored a pair of goals to go

along with single markers from Willow

Western Prairie had goals from Per-

things off.

Game 1 saw Western Prairie tie the game up midway through the third perithe second overtime to give her crew the victory.

Hawkins had a pair of goals for Moose Jaw, Hopkinson their other marker. Dean’s OT goal was her third of the contest, Emersyn Brown also scored for Unity.

If everything goes according to plan, -

than the Moose Jaw Carpet One Mavericks 1, who trail their East Division chamParkland Fire at the Bert Hunt on Thursday.

scored for the Fire in the second period to Leila Olfert and Korolek exchanged goals in the second period.

Lily Whitney was the winning goaltender, Charolette McKee took the loss for Moose Jaw.

with the third and deciding game on Tues-

Construction foursome throughout the Original 16 Cash League playoffs had on Wednesday night.

In playing for a title, any advantage a World Wheelchair Curling Champion-

Marie Wright fresh off their silver-medal showing with Team Canada at the Worlds in Richmond, B.C., and the foursome would go on to a 7-3 victory over Protec Studios and Tyler Krupski at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

had things in hand. He’d score one in theing Krupski to one in the fourth, picked up

another deuce to go up 7-2. Krupski got it a night.

Krupski took the ice with skip Wade Gray, third Brian Mohns and second Candace Newkirk, and there was an additional

take it easy on his dad despite the milestone.

Other consolation results on the night saw BTN Chartered Accountants (Penny Barker) score four in the second end and go on to a 8-5 win over John’s Music (Ryan Wenarchuk), Pro-Tec Electric (Stan an 8-4 win over EMJ Marketing (Joe Gunnis), KalTire (Dustin Woloschuk) score over Pups Parlour (Jaedon Miller), Foun-nal end for a 4-3 win over Matt Froehlich and Rod Montgomery take a 6-4 win over R.K. Sunview Farms (Dayne Heisler).

Spring Rebates - ALL TIRE BRANDS

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Carpet One Mavericks 2 booked their spot in Sask Female Hockey

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

KMS Construction came away with the Original 16 Cash League championship on

The hardy walk among us, their smiling faces in ours only to be recognized in the harshest of conditions. Some say they are crazy, but those who know the secrets of playing disc golf in the dark, depths of a Saskatchewan winter understand each other as if members of an exclusive club of dedicated survivalists.

The sport of disc golf is exploding across Canada, particularly in the Prairie provinces where the playing season is purely dependent on Mother Nature’s whim. In Moose Jaw, Sask., a small group of weather-beaten players will not be stopped regardless of Her temperament.

About a dozen players, most of them in their 30s and 40s, have vowed to play a few rounds of golf every week of the year, including the torturously frigid months of November through March. They call themselves the Moose Jaw Huckers and they have proven to be among the hardest-core disc golfers on the windswept, snow-packed Arctic Prairie landscape.

“We’ve played winter golf in many different conditions, but I think the toughest day was two rounds in minus-35 (degrees Celsius) with a windchill hovering below minus-42,” says Dustin Usher, a busy tradesman and hockey dad who prioritizes time to join the other MJ Huckers on their weekly rounds.

Many of the club’s members are hockey dads. If they’re not at the rink on the weekend, they are at the local Wakamow Valley Disc Golf Course or a longer, more adventurous, lesser-known track they have created just up the Moose Jaw River. Both are in the southern portion of

Moose Jaw, a city of about 35,000 located along the Trans Canada Highway an hour west of Regina, Sask.

and actually never stopped,” says Dustin, alongside his son. Many of the other Huckers have been playing about two years after the course was installed in 2019.

which the club members have committed to playing weekly.

“If the day ends in ‘Y’, it’s very likely that a few of the Huckers are up for a round,” Dustin says.

“There are a handful of reasons why we play golf in the winter, but I think the main one would be for the sport of it.

There’s nothing like nailing a 25-foot putt to take the low score on the card in any weather… I can guarantee we’ll be out again next winter.”

Tripp Sevs, a bachelor who doesn’t have to chase kids across the province through the winter, is a Hucker for different, less competitive reasons.

“I play to get the hell off of the couch, and to just keep moving,” Tripp says.

“It’s also fun to develop your skills and see them improve over time. You surprise yourself by being able to do certain throws or techniques that you didn’t think you could do before.”

Tripp created a text message board for club members to coordinate tee times. around the course after a heavy snowfall with it coming up to just below our knees on one particular day,” Tripp says.

“When it all melts in the spring, we put on rubber boots and walk around in the large puddles in the fairways. Some holes

(year-round). In deep snow, the trick is tohind.”

Mangy Coyote Media is a multi-media venture covering disc golf, its culture and community in Canada. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and at mangycoyotemedia.blogspot.com. Mangy Coyote seeks submissions from creators wanting to write about disc golf in Canada. DM us on FB or IG for more information.

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

city championship win

The Peacock Toilers senior boys basketball team might have come across a winning strategy for pretty much any team out there -- pour in a historic number of points your win.

Jaw High School Athletic Association city championship. Facing the Central Cyclones in the ti-

the Peacock offence was in the opening opening stanza.

able to make any meaningful comeback

the Peacock faithful into hysterics.

18.

The Toilers’ Lance Geddes attempts to drive around Central’s Tommy Vincent.

the night. “I thought it was going to be a

Setter was happy with what his “The guys bought into our game plan

clones host a three-team event beginning

Be sure visit www.shsaa.com for up-

Peacock only let up a bit when the teams

Vanier puts on defensive clinic on way to high school girls city basketball championship

The Vanier Spirits knew that to have a School Athletic Association senior girls highest scoring teams in the league.

The Spirits gave the Peacock Toilers up.

trying to get to Hoopla… But I have no

crack for Peacock all night.

get back into the game.

seven.

play a regional tournament beginning Fri-

play on top of it all. is what they were preparing for.

Christa Lapointe.

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Vanier Spirits are the 2023 Moose Jaw High School Athletic Association senior girls basketball champions.

The Vanier Spirits celebrate as they hoist the city championship trophy.

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Peacock Toilers are the 2023 Moose Jaw High School Athletic Association boys basketball champions.

Over the years, the Central Cyclones girls basketball team has had a rather storied history when facing the Melfort Comets.

Time and again, the Cyclones would be the lower-ranked team heading into the regional championship tournament and off the upset.

Things apparently haven’t changed in that regard, and now the Cyclones are among four Moose Jaw teams off to Hoopla in Prince Albert next weekend.

The Cyclones pulled off the biggest surprise out of all the local victories this past weekend, as they went into their 4A girls regional as the tournament’s sixth seed. They opened with a 70-39 win over 11-seed Yorkton Sacred Heart in their opener and faced the third-seed Comets for a spot in Hoopla.

There, Central would get the job done in style, battling to a 60-47 victory the province.

They’ll be facing a familiar foe in their Hoopla opener on Friday night -none other than the Vanier Spirits.

The city champions are ranked second in the province and made no mistake as regional tournament hosts, posting a couple of utterly commanding victories. The Spirits opened with a 74-14 win over

after regional victories

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Sakaskohc from Onion Lake before rolling to a 78-28 win over Regina Johnson in their regional gold medal game.

Kate Waldenberger led the Spirits Demassi scored 15, Callie Klemenz added 12 and Ireland Guillaume 10.

The Peacock Toilers didn’t have as much luck in the 5A girls regional in Lloydminster, as after winning their opener 70-60 over Yorkton, they’d drop a 7034 decision to top-seeded Swift Current and go on to fall to Prince Albert Carlton 73-57 in the third-place game.

The city champion Toilers boys saw the shoe on the other foot in their regional run, and ended up with a dramatic win in the 5A boys third-place game at Peacock.

Facing Lloydminster with a spot in Hoopla on the line, the Toilers trailed by 10 with four minutes to play and looked as if their season was about to come to a close.

they can put up a lot of points right quick and that’s exactly what Peacock would do -- a 14-0 run to close out the game would give the Toilers an 80-73 victory and send them to the provincial championship.

Mukungu Mutabazi led Peacock with 20 points, while Josh Johnson put up 14 to go along with 10 each from Tegan Tollefson and Tegan Gagnon.

Peacock opened their regional with an 85-80 win over Yorkton Regional before

and regional champion Prince Albert Carlton.

Things were all but anticlimactic for the defending 4A boys provincial champion and top-seeded Central Cyclones, as they rolled to a 100-74 win over Regina Scott in their lone regional game.

Mason Muchowski led the way with 29 points and Gerritt Gulutzan added 20 while Tommy Vincent scored 18 before going down with an apparent ankle injury late in the game.

vance to provincials beginning Friday in Prince Albert.

If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: jritchie@moosejawtoday.com

Mulberry Estates Basketball and Bites event on March 23rd at 2pm. Come enjoy some fun and rebound with snacks and refreshments. Call Tricia @ 306.684.0202 to reserve your spot today.

Timothy Eaton Gardens

Fundraiser for the Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens’ Association with Roast Beef Banquet featuring Tina’s famous Yorkshire Puddings on Saturday, March 25. Doors open at 5 pm along with the bar. Viewing for the Auction and the Penny Parade will be between 5 and 6 pm with dinner at 6. The Auction will start at 7:30. Tickets are $25 and include a draw for the Door Prize. Also, if you have a New item that they would like to donate to our fundraising cause, please contact the administrator at 306 694-4223.

Moose Jaw Town and Country Singles Dance on Saturday March 25, 2023 at Church of Our Lady Community Center 566 Vaughan St. W. from 7:30 to 11:00pm. Band is Two for the Show. Come on out for an evening of fun! Married couples are welcome! Cost is $15 per person. For more information call 306-691-6634.

Living Springs Church –Open House Thursday, March 30 at 6:00 PM. Living Springs Church recently purchased the old church building at 303 Coteau Street. The pubic is invited to a community open house and supper that will take place on Thursday, March 30 at 6:00 pm. There’s no cost to this evening – it’s an opportunity for people in the community to come and have a time of food and fellowship and see some of the things that were done to the building to spruce it up a little. Pastor Rob Reimer will share a bit of his personal testimony and maybe a hockey story or two from the time he played with the Warriors. There will also be a short video that explores the meaning of life. There will be something for the kids during the short program after supper so the whole family is welcome! If you’d like to join the evening, please contact charlene@livingsprings.life.

Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters Next Meeting April 06 & 20/May 04 & 18 (last mtg until Sept) in the Masonic Temple at 1775 Main Street North. Membership Fee is $50 per year. For more information write Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters’ Guild Inc., Box 484, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 4P1 or email prairieheartsquilters@yahoo. ca

Minto United Church and Alliance Church 13-week Grief Recovery Support Groups in Moose Jaw – in person or online - using the GriefShare program which can be viewed at GriefShare.org. Leone Townend has been leading the Grief support ministry at Minto United for several years/Ralph Magnus recently moved to Moose Jaw and brings to the Alliance Church his experience of leading a Griefshare ministry from the Edmonton area. Anyone is

Upcoming Events in Moose Jaw

welcome from any faith background as well as those who GriefShare provides three opportunities for participants; 1. video teaching by pastors and counsellors, 2. a weekly group discussion and 3. individualtion exercises for participants to complete during between meetings. Anyone continuing to struggle with grief weeks, months or even years after the -

ipating in a GriefShare group. Please contact either or both for more information. Minto United Church Online groupLeone Townend, Co-ordinator @ 306-631-9044 or Moose Jaw Alliance Church (MJAC) In-person group meetings at MJAC- Ralph Magnus, GriefShare coordinator @ 780-4566487 (cell). Meetings have already started and are 13week groups, but new participants are welcome to join at any time.

Lawn Bowls at Yara Centre for the winter. Lawn Bowling is an activity for everyone from competitive elements for the competitive athlete, yet is an inclusive activity for the strictly recreation players. It has been described as a cross between curling and billiards.

Admission to Yara centre & no outdoor footwear are the only requirements. Join in Monday night@7:00, Tues am@9:30, Wed. & Thurs @1:30. For more info call or text 306 690 8739. Drop in EVERYONE WELCOME. www.moosejawlawnbowling.com

Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw

Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relasomeone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors –Meeting in Rm 103. You Are Not Alone! Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.

Toastmasters clubs utilize communication skill components to create the smorgashave potential to provide.

Big Country Toastmasters club meets on Wednesdays at 7pm. Regular training opportunities have resumed with in-person @saskpolytech in addition to virtual experience. For more information text 306-690-8739 or email officers-3418@toastmastersclubs.org

TAP Toastmasters (TAP) meet every Tuesday at 7 pm. Email cathymorrell@gmail.com

Church of Our Lady Bingo tales place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m.

The Moose Jaw Stamp Club Meetings are the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 6:30pm at the 1322 11th Ave. NW (north entrance). Call 306-693-5705 for information.

Moose Jaw Camera Club

For more information: Wanda - 306-693-7440 or Len - 306693-7685. themoosejawcameraclub.com

Line Dancing every Tuesday from 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. at St. Andrews Church. Call 306.692.7365 for more information.

Moose Jaw Public Library, 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787; visit their website at https://www.moosejawlibrary.ca/

Moose Jaw Public Library

adult programming in March

Tech Time By appointment only, call 306-692-2787 to book a personalized one-onone session with a tech wizard who can help clients learn how to use their devices and apps

Magic the Gathering All experience levels welcome, come and learn how to play one of the most popular and intricate deck-building games of all time - Saturdays, Mar. 25 from 2 to 5 p.m.

Night Stitchers Tuesday, Mar. 28 at 7 p.m. in the South Meeting Room

Moose Jaw Public Library

youth programming in March

New Adult Digital D&D Every Friday, online, from 4 to 6 p.m., for ages 15 to 22. Register by emailing youth@moosejawlibrary.ca

Teen D&D Thursdays in the MJPL Archives, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., for ages 12 to 16. Register by email at youth@ moosejawlibrary.ca

Teen “I Made This” Art Program Wednesday, Mar. 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room, for ages 12 to 19. This month’s project is duck tape pencil cases, wallets, and bags, with snacks provided Movie Matinee – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022) Saturday, Mar. 25 at 2:30 p.m. in the MJPL theatre, all ages welcome

Movie Night: The Emperor’s New Groove (2000) Wednesday, Mar 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the MJPL theatre, all ages welcome

The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw; Contact: 306-692-5453. Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw. Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59. SHA restricevents.

Bingo every Monday evening in the Lounge. Play starts at 6pm, Paper goes on sale at 5pm. Playing ten regular games with 2 parts each and 3 extra games, all games are cash prizes. Please invite your friends for a fun night out.

Dart League every Thursday starting at 6pm. $25 to enter for the season. No membership required.

Cribbage every Tuesday at 1:30pm. Registration at 1pm. Cost $2 and please pre-register your team by calling 306.693.9688.

every Friday at 7:00pm. Chase the Ace/Meat Draw every Saturday. To see the total check out Facebook page on Wednesday and Fridays for the upcoming Saturdays numbers.

For current listing of events online visit: Monthly Calendar | Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59- Moose Jaw (royalcanadianlegion-

branch59moosejaw.ca)

Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca

Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Friday’s 8am -4pm Wood working area – Monday to Friday 8 am – 4 pm

Timothy Eaton Cafe open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cinnamon Buns are on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Kitchen is open Monday to Friday. Everyone is welcomed.

Billiards open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. as well as Monday & Thursday evenings from 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 10 a.m./Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m./Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m./

Wednesday @ 6pm

Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Mondays & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1

p.m. Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30

am.

Mah Jong – Wednesday @1

p.m. 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

Intro to Line Dancing –

Wednesday’s @ 11am

Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm

Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm

Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities Weekly Activities for March

Monday: 9:30 Pickleball/1:00 -

era Club – only on the 1st

Monday of each month

Tuesday: 9:30 Jam Session/1:00 Pickleball/7:00

Friendship Bridge/7:00 Beginners Only – Pickleball

Wednesday: 8:30 TOPS/9:30

Pickleball/1:00 PONYTAIL -

board/7:00 Lessons Only for Pickleball

Thursday: 10:00 Line

Dance/1:00 Pickleball

Friday: 10:00 Beginner Pickleball/1:00 Regular Pickleball

March 22 and March 29 SOUP & SANDWICH LUNCH from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. C0st

$8pp and incudes soup, sand-

Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans

Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net

Thursday at 1:30 pm Crib -

board

Friday Evening Fun Pool and Darts at 7pm

Saturday At 4:30 pm is our Meat Draw, 50/50, Gift Card Everyone is welcome to join the fun!

Saturday meat draw @ 4:30pm - 50/50, Gift Card Everyone is welcome to join the fun! For More Information on any-

thing Happening at the ANAVETS #252 Call or Text 306681-5998 or 306-692-4412 email anaf252@sasktel.net

Everyone Including NonMembers are Welcome to all our events!!

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395

MONDAY EVENINGS: (to April, 2023): Drop in Cribbage – registration 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm – play starts at 7:00 pm. $2.00 per person – two person teams. Bring a partner or spare. Prizes depend on number of persons registered. Everyone Welcome.

WEDNESDAY EVENINGS: (to April 2023) - Drop in Darts –play starts at 7:00 pm – draw for partners. $2.00 per person, per night. Everyone Welcome

EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace”

EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace”

MONDAY THRU SATURDAY –DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play.

FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY –Aerie meeting – 11:30 am

MARCH 17, 2023 – 8:00 PM –– Live band – Too Easy Come out and dance away to great music

MARCH 18, 2023 – 8:00 pmLive Band playing in the Eagles Club Lounge – 8:00 pm to closing – come out and enjoy your evening – dance to the music of RUNAWAY TRAIN - Appie Platters available starting at noon (pickle chips, onion rings or fries, mushrooms, chicken strips) for $10.00, Mexi Fry Deluxe $8.00, Bacon Poutine (large) $9.50. No supper specials available.

APRIL 14 & 15, 2023 – Live Band – Original Covers – playing in the lounge at 8:00 pm Come out and enjoy the music and dance.

APRIL 21 & 22, 2023 – Live Band – Brandon & Company – playing in the lounge at 8:00 pm Friday – Jam on Saturday at 4:pm to 6:00 pm – then again at 8:00 pm. Come out and enjoy some really great music

Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. Please call for more information (306) 6935989.

You can read more about the upcoming sessions and how to sign up for the free Virtual

Annual Thunder Creek Model Train Show that will be taking place on Saturday & Sunday, Mar. 18 & 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This event has no age limit and is free to attend for all WDM members. Regular admission applies for non-members. Regular admission applies to non-members. There is an on-site concession (cash only) that will be available for all visitors. For more information, visit https://wdm.ca/moose-jaw/ visit/location/.

FLU & VACCINE CLINICS AT

Location: Moose Jaw Family Wellness Centre, 1000B Albert St. East, Moose Jaw, SK. Contact Phone: 1-833-727-

The views and opinions

By Leon Retief

The Code Breaker. Jennifer Doudna, Gene Editing, and the Future of the Human Race

Walter Isaacson. Simon & Schuster, 536 pages. 749 words

The discovery in 1953 that DNA is a double helix set off a cascade of research into this molecule. As the bearer of heredity, it carries the instructions for making proteins while the various forms of RNA are involved in actual synthesis of proteins.

The realization that genes play a role in many diseases quite naturally inspired the desire to manipulate these genes in order to treat or prevent the diseases involved.

The big question, quite obviously, was: how?

Humble bacteria had already solved that problem eons ago because they, just like every other living being on the planet, are attacked by viruses. They evolved a defense system known as CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Palindromic Repeats) which is, as the acronym indicates, a regular series of repeated bases in DNA. This

mi Ishino, but he didn’t know what to make of it and left the matter there.

repeated sequences was Francisco Mojica, who began working on the problem in 1990. This was sterling work, carried out with very little funding. It was he, too, who came up with the acronym.

In the meantime, the international yogurt and cheese industry faced a problem: their starter cultures, (mostly bacteria), were attacked by viruses. Rodolphe Barringou and Philippe Horvath, two French scientists who worked for the Danish food company Danisco, set to work on this.

They realized that the CRISPR sequences in bacteria resistant to viruses exactly matched the sequences in the viruses to which they were resistant. This was a huge breakthrough and the concept was quickly followed by other researchers outside the

One of them was the Lithuanian biochemist Virginijus Šikšnys, but his work was rejected by leading

Doudna was one of the scientists (which included a few shady characters) who took up CRISPR research, assembling a team of top scientists, all of whom made important contributions to her future discoveries.

patetic French scientist Emmanuelle Charpentier, who much preferred working alone or in a smaller group.

The discovery of CRISPR and its associated en-

NDP’s Wakamow riding association hosting budget forum this weekend

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The Saskatchewan NDP’s Moose Jaw-Wakamow Constituency Association plans to hold an event this weekend fea-ic Trent Wotherspoon speaking about the provincial government’s 2023-24 budget.

The budget forum occurs Sunday, Union Centre’s main hall at 1402 Caribou Street West.

Wotherspoon, the MLA for Regina Rosemont, will go into detail about the provincial budget — to be released on March 22 — while he and Beck will answer questions from attendees afterward.

The constituency association has historically hosted this event every year after the budget but hasn’t held one during the past few years because of the pandemic, said constituency spokeswoman Stacey Landin. However, the organization is bringing back the forum because the pandemic is mostly over.

Wotherspoon and Beck will focus on

the big changes in the budget, while they will also focus on smaller aspects that don’t receive as much attention — or are made public — in government news releases, she continued.

“Obviously, what they put into the media through the government is not always the stuff that hits home for folks and so we want to make sure they realize the entire effects of the provincial budget,” Landin said.

of-living issues, which the government doesn’t usually mention in a “good news” speech on budget day. So, the NDP’s goal is to ensure people understand how their pocketbooks will be affected by the province’s budgetary decisions.

“We’re excited to have an in-person event. It’s open to everyone,” Landin added. “And it will be a nice time to talk about pocketbook issues because that’s what’s most important to the working people and the people on pensions.”

cine and although much more work remains to be done, at least one successful application was announced recently, see link (2).

Doudna and Charpentier shared the Nobel prize for chemistry in 2020 for “for the development of a method for genome editing.”

The rules of this award stipulate that a prize in any people at a time, and I am sure that more than just a few researchers must feel just a little hard done by, but that is an unfortunate feature of many discoveries: people who have made major breakthroughs are overlooked or forgotten. -

required to understand the concepts.

The last section of the book deals with the inevitable moral questions raised by such discoveries, and there are many. Isaacson lays these problems out in a clear and thoughtful manner and that by itself makes the book worth reading.

I have only one quibble. On page 270 we read: “… RNA can be transcribed into DNA, thus modifying the central dogma of biology, which states that genetic information travels in only one direction, from DNA to RNA.”

This is incorrect. The “central dogma” (a term coined by Francis Crick, who soon regretted his choice of words) states that once information was transferred from back to nucleic acids.

Isaacson is a biographer of note and his biographies of Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein and Leonardo da Vinci are also well worth reading.

A brief video explaining CRISPR can be seen at

1) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKbrwPL3wXE and an example of the potential for the application of CRISPR in genetic disease can be read at

2) : https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/feb/15/ girl-with-deadly-inherited-condition-mld-curedgene-therapy-libmeldy-nhs

Image: Amazon.ca

THANK YOU for choosing our INDEPENDENT LOCAL BUSINESSES

Leon Retief is a retired physician with clinical and research experience. He likes drinking wine, listening to music and reading.

expressed in this article are those of the au-

ATTEMPT, CART, CYCLONE, DELAY, DIARY, DIRE, DOMAIN, ESCALATE, FEDERAL, GOLDEN, GUITAR, INNER, INQUEST, INVESTIGATOR, MAIN, MAJOR, MEDAL, METHOD, MIRROR, MORAL, PLANET, POLICY, PRIME, QUOIN, REALM, RIDDLE, SEAS, SEQUEL, SLED, SOUND, STAMP, TARDY, TEMPORARY, TITLE, TOILET

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

9.

user

47. Not solids nor liquids

50. A Great Lake 51. Typewriter type 52. Neat 53. Detail 54. Smack

“I realize that every picture isn’t a work of art.” -- Conrad Hall --

Moose

AUTOS

For Sale or Trade 2015

Cadillac Platinum, Senior driven. Has approximately 40,000 miles, excellent shape. Looking for a SUV. Call 306-690-6002

FOR SALE-1998- 6.5

Chevy Diesel Half-Ton Truck. Good Rubber, Fair Condition, High Mileage. 4-Wheel Drive. Call 1-306-5702714 between 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. and let it ring until answered.

AUTO PARTS

Good condition tires-Nitto Trail Grappler, 6/32 tread, 285/75/16 mounted on Dodge Ram 1500 rims. $400 OBO, Call 306-631-9853

For Sale; 2019 Dodge Ram Low Rider, Black. Asking $350. 306690-9433

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Tools for sale- floor drill press $100.00, 10” radial saw $50.00,120v wire welder $50.00, 3” sears planer $20.00, counter top edger $10.00, socket set $10.00, floor jack $15.00, 2 hydraulic jacks $5.00 each, kitchen aid stand mixer with food grinder attached $150.00, many hand tools, saws, etc. Call to see if I have what you need.

George 306-693-7935

Tools for sale- craftsman scroller saw $25., 4 1/2” palm sander $20., craftsman 40cc chainsaw 16” + case $75.,4 1/2’ RYOBI orbit sander $30., craftsman 1/4 sht pad sander $25., dewalt RCIP saw & case $60., 10” electric pole saw $35., 10” car polisher $8., 4” angle grinder $10., laser pro level & case

$40. call George 306693-7935

MISCELLANEOUS

For Sale: 6 drawer dresser with mirror 40.00, Desk/ secretary with drawers 40.00, Metal 5 drawer o ce desk 40.00, Metal 5 ft. utility table 20.00, Corner computer desk with tray 100.00,White colored 4 shelf storage cabinet 25.00, 4 drawer wooden filing cabinet 25.00, Near new futon 175.00, Tan fabric recliner 175.00, Reebok deluxe tread mill 175.00,Heavy duty air compressor 40.00, Shop tool cabinet : 36x36x28 “ 40.00, Shop tool cabinet : 46x42x24 “ 40.00, Work bench : 44x33x30 “, Heavy duty insulated men’s skidoo suit – barely used 75.00, Men’s bicycle 20.00, Call (306) 631-0084

4 cemetery plots in Garden of Devotion at Sunset Cemetery 9th Ave. SW. Moose Jaw Sask. For more

information, call or text

John at 306-537-7759.

I received a Mosaic Gift card as a refund for a cancelled show due to COVID. I no longer reside in Moose Jaw so I can’t use it. Value $268.55 asking $240.00 OBO. Call

306-690-2675

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

For Sale- dark blue recliner (fair condition) $50.00, dark green swivel rocker (good condition) $100.00, dark blue Skylar Peppler love seat (very good condition) $150.00. Contact 306631-8330

Chesterfield and matching chair, glasstop co ee and end tables. Asking $300 for full set. 306-990-0808

LOST & FOUND

LOST- Three ring diamond wedding set. Phone 306-630-5676. Reward o ered

BLASH, DEBORAH (DEBBIE) 1950-2023

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Debbie Blash on Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, surrounded by her family and in the arms of her husband. She was an amazing woman, wife, mother and “grammie”. Debbie was a caring, strong, resilient and supporter of her family. She deeply and unconditionally loved her husband, children, their spouses and treasured grandchildren. Debbie was loved beyond words and will be always missed and remembered by many. Deb’s joy of life, personality, smile and sparkling eyes were infectious and brightened any room and peoples’ hearts, making everybody feel welcome, safe and comfortable. Debbie contributions throughout her years that positively impacted her family, friends and the lives of many children, colleagues and people in many communities. Certainly, her priority and focus in life was her family and her absolute pride in them. “Grammie” particularly treasured and looked forward to spending time with her precious grandchildren, Jordyn, Kennedy, Avery and Boston, enjoying playing games, doing arts and crafts, reading, telling original oral stories, doing lego and puzzles, cooking, going for walks, and playing at the cottage and beach. Debbie also enthusiastically pursued her passions: Traveling, including every province in Canada, 21 U.S. states, Mexico, various Caribbean Island countries, and eleven European countries; The pursuit of being the best educator she could be; Engaging her creativity and love for art and becoming a talented amateur artist; Being an active volunteer with various organizations, programs and events at the community, provincial, national and international levels; Enjoying the cottage and social life at Diefenbaker Lake; Enjoying the comradery and challenge of golf and curling; and last but not least enjoying great parties. Debbie was born and raised in Regina, SK and received her Bachelor of Education (special education major) and Masters of Education (curriculum development) Degrees from the University of Regina. She was an educator and administrator during her 35 years with the Prairie South School Division in Moose Jaw. She was also a Faculty Advisor at the Faculty of Education, University of Regina, working with the student teacher placement program. Her goal was always to strive to provide the best possible opportunities for her students and support for her colleagues, which earned their respect and admiration. Her family, friends and colleagues refer to her abounding energy, love of life, wonderful sense of humor, creativity, dedication, compassion, understanding, warmth, and most of all her immeasurable inner strength and faith against all odds. She was recognized as a leader, mentor, an inspiration, master educator, a problem solver, a mediator an organizer and – a Champion in so many ways. Debbie is survived by her beloved husband Vern, cherished children, daughter and son-in-law Lori and Jamie Stushnoff, son and daughter-in-law Chad and Nadine (Immel) Blash, adored grandchildren, Jordyn, Kennedy and Avery Blash and Boston Stushnoff, loved sister and brother-in law Marianne and Jim Holt, dear brother Danny Eaglestone, loving brother-in-law Siegfried Bierer, nephews Jason (Jen) Connery and Sandro (Katie) Bierer and grand

nephews and nieces. Debbie was predeceased by her parents, Tom and Isabelle Eaglestone, mother-in-law, Kate “Pete” Blash and sister-in-law and “bestie” Monica Bierer. In 2017 Debbie suffered a severe stroke and while she lived at home, it was with the tremendous support from four wonderful health facilities. The family would like to acknowledge and thank Dr. Hunter, medical staff, nurses, therapists, and professional support staff of the Neuro Ward at Royal University Hospital, Saskatoon, and the Rau and the ICU staff and the medical, nursing, therapy and professional support staff of the 6f ward, Regina General Hospital; and her friend and long term physio, Melanie of Nomad therapies in Saskatoon. Their expertise, support, dedication, caring and compassion for Debbie and the family after Debbie’s stroke in 2017, along with her personal inner strength, resilience and determination enabled her to live at home to enjoy a meaningful life, and the skills to meet and overcome the challenges she faced over the past 6 years. A special thank you to Dr. Bortolotti, Dr. Howe, all of the medical staff, RN Debbie Flegel and all the nursing staff, and support staff and professional the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital for their support and dedicated efforts on different occasions over the past few months. Your professionalism, expertise, standards of care excellence, support, caring, kindnesses, compassion, warmth, understanding and love given to Debbie, her husband and family are so very much appreciated and hard to praise in mere words. Thank You to all of you and to all the health care front line workers who helped Debbie immensely, you are amazing and are second to none. Be proud of yourselves. The family is grateful for and thank all the friends and colleagues who have supported Debbie and the Family in so many ways over the past six years. You are dear to our hearts and special people. In particular, the family wants to thank Brent and Linda Boechler and family, for their ongoing extraordinary support, understanding, love, kindness and always being there for us for any of our needs. To Randy Magno and Melinde Millama – Thank you for who you are. For being there to help care for Deb on an ongoing basis, for your genuine compassion, support and love. We are blessed to have Brent and Linda and the Boechler family, Randy and Melinde as a real part of the extended Blash Family. You are exceptional. Everybody has made the last six years joyful, meaningful and hopeful for Debbie and gave her the added strength, resilience and faith to meet her ongoing challenges. God Bless. Deb was a gift from God. Now, after a full life of 72 years, it is now time to return the their wings to your sweet rest in heaven with the Lord God and his son Jesus Christ. We carry you with us always- in our hearts, souls and memories forever. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 1st, 2023 at Church of Our Lady, 566 Vaughan Street, Moose Jaw, SK. Interment to follow at Rosedale Cemetery. A Celebration of Life Reception will follow at the Grant Hall Hotel, Banquet Room, 401 Main Street N, Moose Jaw, commencing at 2:30 p.m. on April 1st 2023. Debbie we love you “to the moon and back in a rocket ship a billion times”- you are loved and remembered forever. We will be together forever. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth, Intern Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com

SPANKO, DENNIS

Dennis Joseph Spanko passed away on March 10, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Gravelbourg, SK. Over the last years Dennis struggled with numerous health issues, but always maintained his smile and sense of humour. Dennis was born June 13, 1945 at this same hospital. He was a lifelong resident of Mazenod, SK. Besides farming he spent a lot of time with his favourite hobbies: constructing small versions of Mazenod businesses, refurbishing old trucks and machinery, and welding art pieces.

On December 19, 1981 he married Patricia “Pat” Mulhern. Together they lived on the farm bordering the south side of Mazenod. They were always active in Mazenod activities; helping organize the reunions over the years, maintaining the Sacred Heart Cemetery, and visiting with friends and neighbours. Dennis and I have been truly blessed to have Scott Heatcoat, Cheri Rotheisler and baby Joey as part of our family, especially during Dennis’ end of life journey. They are dear friends who have given us great comfort and joy.

Dennis was predeceased by his parents Tony (1969) and Annie (2003)(née Kesslar ) Spanko; father-in-law, Mike (1977) and mother-in-law, Mary (2005) (née Clutchey) Mulhern.

He is survived by his wife Pat Spanko and his precious companion little dog Cheeko; sister, Shirley Ann (Larry Way dec’d 2017); brother, Roy Anthony (Teena Roberts); sister, Marilyn Bertha (Monty Needham, Bob Reesor (dec’d 2009), Ed Krieser); many nieces and nephews.

Dennis lived a full and fulling life in 77 years but still left us way too soon. He will be laid to rest at the Scared Heart Cemetery in Mazenod at a later date.

Lemieux or St. Joseph Hospital Foundation would be welcomed.

A heartfelt thank you to the Doctors, Nurses and Staff at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Hospital, Assiniboia Palliative Care and St. Joseph Hospital for the exceptional care and support.

Better water brings out the best in your family

/ Memorials

ANAKA, SHIRLEY

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley Anaka at the age of 84 years on Friday, March 10th, 2023 in Moose Jaw, SK.

Shirley was born in Moose Jaw on April 22nd, 1938. She was predeceased by her parents, Lawrence and Gladys Clark; brother, Billy Clark; sisters, Doreen VanBuskirk and Eileen Smith; brothers-in-law, Charles VanBuskirk and Brian Smith; nephews, Brian (Bud) Smith and David Clark; and long time partner, Al Drysdale. Shirley is survived by her son, Kelly (Shelley) Anaka; granddaughter, Kristen (Ryan) Englot and great-grandson, Mason; niece, Gerry (Dean) Rusnak, great-niece, Nicole (Jeff) Weekes, great-great-niece, Hanna (JJ) Ferreira; greatnephew, Jonathon (Ashley) Rusnak and family; niece, family; Larry (Shirley) Clark and family; sister-in-law, Jean Clark; and Al’s children and their families.

Shirley worked alongside her sisters at Prairie News in Moose Jaw until it closed. It was at that time that Shirl moved to Regina, SK with her sister Eileen (lovingly called Bubsy) to work at Regina News until her retirement at age 63. Shortly after retirement Shirl moved back to Moose Jaw to be closer to family.

Shirley had a special bond with her niece Gerry Rusnak and her great-great-niece Hanna. Shirley and Gerry spent many hours talking and Shirl especially enjoyed their drives to nowhere. No one could make Shirley laugh like Hanna could so it was always a special occasion when Hanna and JJ were in town for a visit. Shirley was also extremely proud to be a greatgrandmother to Mason and showcased many pictures of him in her apartment.

In keeping with Shirley’s wishes, a Private Family Service will be held. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Shirley’s name may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www. moosejawfuneralhome.com

Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not this publication.

Soon

I ordered a new computer online the other day. The initial information listed a delivery date two weeks from the order day. However, just before the two weeks mark, I received an email indicating that the order was delayed, and it would be shipped soon. Four weeks after the order date the computer had not even been built yet, according to the order status on the website. Then I received an email informing me that the computer has been built and shipped and it will arrive soon. What did the company mean by using the word soon? I found it frustrating toer. The dictionary describes soon as without undue time lapse, in a prompt manner. I’m not sure what soon really means when waiting for an item to be shipped to you.

Before the 12th century the English term soon implied immediately or at once. It seems soon was equivalent to the Anglo-Saxon word now. Today the dictionary lists that meaning as obsolete. My guess would be that after hundreds of years of people saying, “I’ll do that soon,” the word lost that understanding and acquired a sense of ‘a short time after now.’

Soon is a vague answer we often use to avoid ofscore on my credit card straightened out soon and solve my credit history. Children frequently use with the word “soon,” when responding to the request to clean up their room. Job candidates are often told during the hiring process that they’ll receive a response soon. What does soon really mean?

When someone says, “We’ll talk soon,” what do they insinuate? Tomorrow? In 10 minutes? If you can see them their body language can sometimes indicate a clue to a time frame. Are they standing with their arms crossed in

on the end of a pen? Physical actions may mean a longer soon, or not at all.

Many people use soon to express a reluctance to accomplish something. “I will do that soon.” The confusion happens when the hearer takes this literally and expects a result in a short time after now. The speaker may perceive soon as a variable timeframe and understand its meaning as not yet. It is not always clear what people mean by soon. It depends on the situation and understanding of who is talking and who is receiving the word.

There are some instances when it’s better to avoid giving people the chance to use the word soon. If you have an appointment with your doctor and want to know when you’ll get your test results, don’t ask, “When will I get my results?” as the answer may well be soon, and that indicates nothing. Instead, ask, “Can you tell me how long I’ll have to wait?” If you’re worried about meeting deadlines don’t say, “I need that soon.” Instead, use phrases like “I need this by Tuesday” or “I need this by noon on Wednesday.”

Requests that include “as soon as possible” (or the acronym ASAP) can come across as rude. In fact, Forbes magazine named emails with ASAP in the subject header as US Army slang. Which may be why we sometimes associate it with the mental image of a drill sergeant barking orders. ASAP can be a communication shortcut when it’sly for people who work together frequently. If both the requester and the requestee understand that ASAP means “whenever you get around to it,” there’s less chance for misunderstandings. However, ASAP does nothing to help tended to by the end of the day, the end of the week, or whenever the recipient gets a little spare time? “As soon as possible” doesn’t convey any sort of time frame. When overused, it becomes meaningless. When everything needs to be delivered ASAP, nothing is. In fact, ASAP can signify a lack of planning. If you don’t really know when you need your request attended to, by using “as soon as possible,” you’re leaving it to the discretion of the person who is asked to complete the task.

Perhaps we should stay away from using the word soon will help everyone get on the same page.

Columnist John Kreutzwieser loves to research words and writes this weekly Word Wisdom column for Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com. He has an interest in the usage, origin, and relevance of words for society today. Greek and Latin form the basis of many words, with ancient Hebrew shedding light on word usage.

John would like to know if anyone has a sincere interest in a relevant word that he could possibly research for an upcoming column. If so, please send your requests to word-

ANDERSON, SHARON

Sharon L. Anderson aged 75 years of Moose Jaw, SK, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Saturday, March 11th, 2023. Sharon was born October 13th, 1947 in Moose Jaw. She grew up in and around Moose Jaw where she married her husband, Gordon. Sharon and Gordon lived and farmed in the RM of Caron with their family until Gordon’s retirement in 2011. Aside from farming she worked at RBC until her retirement. Sharon loved camping and travelling, spending winters in Arizona with her husband, and then many more adventures with her sister Darlene after Gordon’s passing. She loved her friends and her beloved dog Marley. She was predeceased by her parents, Vern and Zella Ronning; and husband, Gordon. Sharon is survived by her children, Derrick and Melinda; grandchildren, Kelsey and Jordon; and sister, Darlene. Thank you to the staff at Pioneer Lodge and all those who helped Sharon throughout this time.

A Private Family Service will be held to honour Sharon. made to The Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com

a BASEBALL

Friday 4:00 p.m. NET MLB Preseason Baseball Philadelphia Phillies at Toronto Blue Jays.

d

Thursday

TBA.

7:30 p.m. WWJ 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Sem ifinal: TBA.

Friday

5:00 p.m. WWJ 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Semifinal: TBA.

5:30 p.m. TSN 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Semifinals.

7:30 p.m. WWJ 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Semifinal: TBA.

Saturday 4:00 p.m. TSN 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Finals.

Sunday

6:30 p.m. NET NBA Basketball Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden State Warriors.

Tuesday

5:30 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball Miami Heat at Toronto Raptors.

8:00 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball New Orleans Pelicans at Golden State Warriors.

Wednesday

5:30 p.m. TSN NBA Basketball Dallas Mavericks at Philadelphia 76ers.

k HOCKEY

Thursday

7:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames.

Saturday

5:00 p.m. CBKT NET NHL Hockey Toronto Maple Leafs at Carolina Hurricanes.

CTYS NHL Hockey Columbus Blue Jackets at Montreal Canadiens.

6:00 p.m. WXYZ NHL Hockey Washington Capitals at Pittsburgh Penguins.

8:00 p.m. CBKT NET NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Edmonton Oilers.

Monday

5:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Montreal Canadiens at Buffalo Sabres.

8:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Arizona Coyotes.

Tuesday

7:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Los Angeles Kings at Calgary Flames.

9:45 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Edmonton Oilers at Vegas Golden Knights.

Wednesday

5:30 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Florida Panthers at Toronto Maple Leafs.

9:00 p.m. NET NHL Hockey Minnesota Wild at Colorado Avalanche.

(4:30) 2023

Men’s Basketball Tournament Regional Semifinals. Whip-around coverage. SC With Jay

NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Calgary Flames. (N) Sportsnet Blue Jays Misplays

Big Bang

(N) Rookie Blue “Monster” Next Level Chef (N) Rookie Blue

Raymond Raymond The Office The Office Frasier Frasier Cheers Cheers

35 TLC (6:00) My 600-Lb. Life (N) My 600-Lb. Life Sneaking food is Doug’s last vice. My 600-Lb. Life

38 DISC King Tut: A Century of Lego Masters Australia King Tut: A Century of

41 COM Sheldon ’Til Death Friends Friends Friends Friends Big Bang Big Bang

42 TCM (6:00) “The Yearling” (:15) ››› “Splendor in the Grass” (1961, Drama) Natalie Wood. 400 Blows

47 AMC (6:00) ››› “The Fugitive” (1993) Harrison Ford. ››› “Clear and Present Danger” (1994)

48 FSR Motorcycle Race Motorcycle Race Motorcycle Race Dangerous Drives

55 CRV1 (6:50) ›› “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” (2021) Pretty Little Liars: Original Pretty Little Liars: Original

56 CRV2 Free Guy (:20) ›› “See How They Run” (2022) Drag Race Belgique (N)

Catherine Zeta-Jones. Corner Gas

Law & Order: SVU Will & Grace Will & Grace Mystery 101 An attempt is made on Travis’ life.

ENCAV2 (6:45) ››› “The Perfect Storm” (2000, Suspense) ››› “Friday” (1995) Ice Cube. Maps

CMT Raymond Raymond The Office The Office Frasier Frasier Cheers Cheers

TLC 90 Day: Other 90 Day Darcey & Stacey 90 Day 90 Day: Other

DISC (6:00) Street Outlaws: Fastest in America (N) Homestead Rescue Homestead Rescue

41 COM Sheldon ’Til Death Wipeout Goldbergs Goldbergs Big Bang Big Bang

42 TCM Dr Strange (:45) ›››› “Network” (1976) Faye Dunaway, Peter Finch. “The Great Dictator”

47 AMC (6:00) › “Gone in 60 Seconds” (2000) (:45) ›› “Now You See Me” (2013) Jesse Eisenberg.

48 FSR NASCAR Drag Racing NHRA Sportsman Series NASCAR Dangerous Drives

55 CRV1 (:10) ››› “Ron’s Gone Wrong” (2021, Children’s) “Delia’s Gone” (2022) Stephan James. Many Saints

56 CRV2 (6:10) “Moonshot” (2022) Starstruck Starstruck RuPaul’s Drag Race (N) “Worst Person”

57 CRV3 The Batman Doyle (:10) Friday Night Lights Bosch (9:50) City on a Hill

58 HBO (5:30) Tina Andre the Giant Jerrod Carmichael Real Time With Bill Maher

SATURDAY EVENING 7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30

3 CBKFT En direct de l’univers (N) Professeur T Le porteur (N) Téléjournal Humanité

5 CFRE New Reality Border Family Law Nurses News Private Eyes

6 CKCK W5 “Darrow & Darrow: In the Key of Murder” (2018) A Cut Above (N)

7 WEATH Nature Candid Heading Out Candid Heading Out Candid Heading Out Candid

8 WDIV Figure Skating Saturday Night Live (N) News (:29) Saturday Night Live

9 CBKT NHL Hockey NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Edmonton Oilers. (N)

11 WWJ NCIS: Hawai’i “Nurture” 48 Hours SEAL Team “Reckoning” Magnum P.I.

12 WXYZ NHL Hockey: Capitals at Penguins News The Rookie Nashville

13 CTYS NHL Hockey Food Food Hudson & Rex Paramedics: Paramedics:

19 TSN 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament SportsCentre (N) NFL Plays

20 NET NHL Hockey NHL Hockey Vegas Golden Knights at Edmonton Oilers. (N)

25 EDACC Rookie Blue “I Never” Highway Thru Hell Fear Thy Neighbor Fear Thy Neighbor

26 W “Caribbean Summer” (2022) Heather Hemmens. “A Picture of Her” (2023) Rhiannon Fish, Tyler Hynes.

29 ENCAV2 (:05) ›› “Tolkien” (2019, Biography) Nicholas Hoult. ››› “The Lost Boys” (1987, Horror) White Men

CMT Cheers Cheers Man-Plan Man-Plan Man-Plan Man-Plan Frasier Frasier

TCM (6:00)

“Patton” (1970) George C. Scott. ›››› “The Last Emperor” (1987) John Lone.

AMC (6:00) ››› “Star Trek Beyond” (:45) ››› “The Perfect Storm” (2000) George Clooney.

FSR Drag Racing DRL Drone Racing DRL Drone Racing

CRV1 (6:15) ››› “Dune” (2021) Timothée Chalamet. ›› “House Party” (2023) Tosin Cole. Barbarian

CRV2 (5:30) “King Richard”

(2007) Tobey Maguire. “Bullet Proof” (2022) Vinnie Jones. Death Proof

33 CMT Raymond Raymond The Office The Office Frasier Frasier Cheers Cheers

35 TLC Darcey & Stacey (N) (:02) Extreme Sisters (N) (:02) Extreme Sisters (N) Darcey & Stacey

38 DISC Homestead Rescue “Black Hills Hope” (N) Homestead Rescue Homestead Rescue

41 COM Sheldon ’Til Death Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang Big Bang

42 TCM “Goodbye, Mr. Chips” ››› “The Paper Chase” (1973) Timothy Bottoms. “Prime-Brodie”

47 AMC (6:00) ››› “Cujo” ››› “Under Siege” (1992) Steven Seagal, Tommy Lee Jones. Total Recall

48 FSR Superbike Superbike British Superbike Champ. Dangerous Drives

55 CRV1 Curious (:20) “On the Record” (2020) “And Still I Sing” (2022,

(1930) Wallace Beery. ››› “Papillon” (1973)

47 AMC (6:00) ››› “Tombstone” (1993) Kurt Russell. ››› “Sicario” (2015) Emily Blunt, Benicio del Toro.

48 FSR Drag Racing Motorcycle Race Motorcycle Race Dangerous Drives

55 CRV1 ››› “Free Guy” (2021, Action) Ryan Reynolds. ››› “The Black Phone” (2021) Ethan Hawke.

56 CRV2 (6:15) “Queen Bees” ››› “Belfast” (2021) Caitriona Balfe. (:40) “The Many Saints of Newark”

57 CRV3 Starstruck Doyle (:10) Friday Night Lights Bosch (9:50) City on a Hill

58 HBO Dancing (:25) “Running With Beto” (2019) 100-Foot Wave 100-Foot Wave

WEDNESDAY EVENING

7:00 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:00 9:30 10:00 10:30

3 CBKFT Stat (N) L’épicerie Les enfants de la télé (N) Trahison ultime (N) Le téléjournal (N)

5 CFRE Survivor “The Third Turd” Big Brother Canada (N) Accused (N) Global News at 10 (N)

6 CKCK The Masked Singer (N) Lingo “Episode 10” (N) True Lies (N) Big Bang etalk (N)

7 WEATH Nature This World This World This World This World This

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OPINION/COMMENTARY

Why is the Internet Important?

Because Isaac Newton said so. Newton is the Dude who Neanderthal times, people knew if you dropped something it fell down, not up. (Some conspiracy folk may believe things ‘fall up’ but they don’t.) Newton explained why stuff fell down and gave human-kind the formula and logic behind Gravity. Newton’s stuff still confuses the heck out of me, but space scientists use it all the time.

Isaac made the Internet Important when, in 1675, he wrote to his buddy and fellow genius Robert Hooke saying, “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.”

A VERY BIG DEAL!!!!!

What old Isaac was saying is, “This discovery leads to that discovery and that discovery leads to …”. You get the picture. New ideas do not spring forth in a vacuum.

Along with all the crap and nonsense on the Internet, it is the greatest place to share academic and scienor similar sites. For example, a Scientist writes a research paper on a topic – the Abstract (summary) is posted on

By Richard Dowson

the Internet for other Scientists to read and incorporate in their research.

You pose the right Internet search question; things get sorted and boom, there you are. If you are a famer curious about a plant disease, you pose a question and read the research. I’ve often read research from Korea, New Zealand, Italy and Sweden on one narrow topic.

Yesterday I researched the intricacies of the 1930s Menasco Pirate airplane engine.

When you watch the YouTube video on how to build a raised garden bed, you are doing what Newton said, building on the ideas of others. (Pun intended)

Like Newton said, “If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” Who Invented the Internet?

Glad you asked. It was Tim Berners-Lee. He took ideas and built on them.

Tim Berners-Lee was born in Britain in 1955. His parents were ‘into’ computers. He graduated from university in 1976 and went to work as a Software Designer.

Later he moved to Switzerland and went to work at

The Family Dog – Who’s Really in Charge?

By Richard Dowson

When I was a kid our family had a dog named Luke –something of a stoic Biblical character. He was the family pet – along with two white rats. My brother John brought him home. Neither Luke nor us had a choice in the matter.

Luke the dog was smarter than all of us kids combined. We never walked him. We’d hook him to the clothesline and he had the run of the whole back yard. He was almost independent.

We were seven badly behaved wild kids living in a 700 square foot, two-bedroom house in north Toronto. Luke spent his nights in the damp, dark cellar (basement), along with the broken toys, bicycles, dirty laundry and homemade grape jam our Mom made.

Luke had an old iron frame bed he slept on – as long as none of our friends were hiding down there. In those frame bed.

If the door was left open a crack, Luke would run away and only returned when there was nothing more

to do. Our Mom said she would do the same thing if she had the chance.

My children brought home dogs. Both still have dogs. The last dog they brought home was Bob the Dog, an independent, aloof and small black dog; not as tough as he thought he was. He was a cross between a poodle and a New York City Gangster. Bob had attitude. You knew pretty quickly what Bob didn’t like.

Bob could go to a power pole, sniff around it, growl and tear the ground up with his claws. He could rip up enough dirt that the next dog to stop at the power pole would think a Black Bear had been there.

He liked Sunny Southern Alberta. Bob hated Northern Alberta. He got lucky and retired to Lethbridge, for the climate. It was good for his arthritic hip that he got as

The really big question is, does the family own the dog, or does the dog own family?

The answer: “Who picks up after whom?”

CERN (European Organization for Nuclear Research). While there, he designed Hypertext to be used to link “on-line” information across different computers. It just grew and grew.

Encyclopedia Britannica writes, “His goal was to provide researchers with the ability to share their results, techniques, and practices without having to exchange emails constantly.”

Isaac Newton would be happy!

Tim Berners-Lee Credit: Encyclopedia Britannica

New CEO at RCMP Heritage Centre as Tara Robinson ends two-year stint

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Tara Robinson has announced her resigof the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Heritage Centre, taking effect March 31, 2023 — Sam Karikas, the Centre’s current Director of Strategic Initiatives, has been appointed by the board as interim CEO.

Robinson was appointed in July 2021 to oversee the Heritage Centre’s transition to a National Museum.

“It is with deep regret, but with respect and gratitude that the Board accepts Tara’s resignation. We value her leadership, commitment, and dedication to the Centre’s success,” said Kevin Doherty, board chair of the RCMP Heritage Centre. “The Board is excited that Sam will assume the role of Interim CEO. Her experience on the project has proven invaluable, ensuring continuity and a rich understanding of the market, landscape, sector, and federal process to become a National Museum.”

A press release announcing the change in CEOs noted that:

“Over the last 21 months, (Robinson) has built a dynamic team to implement transformational change and develop a new vision to become Canada’s newest National Museum. Under her leadership, the RCMP Heritage Centre is well positioned for excellence in Canada’s cultural landscape and as a tourist destination.”

Robinson has overseen the creation and implementation of new programming

and guest experiences for the Centre, including a virtual educational series whose participation has grown from a few hundred to more than 11,000 students across Canada.

The Centre has also seen a pivot to focus on Truth and Reconciliation. Strong

relationships with Indigenous community partners have helped to establish exhibits such as The Witness Blanket, which was open to the public from Feb. 17 to Mar. 15. The blanket is a large-scale work of art by Carey Newman which contains 880 art items items reclaimed from residential

Remembering the Fallen

Buried at Rosedale Cemetery, Moose Jaw

By Richard Dowson

schools, churches, government buildings, and traditional and cultural structures from communities across Canada.

“It has been a great privilege to help build the vision for a National RCMP Museum,” Robinson said in the release. “I am so proud to have been part of this important and historic journey.

“I am thrilled for Sam to take the that with her commitment and passion, she will take the Centre to the next exciting level.”

Karikas has been working on the RCMP Heritage Museum National Status project for nearly three years, including as a consultant prior to joining the Centre’s executive team.

She led key projects such as the National Status Canada-wide engagement survey, the development of the 2023-26 strategic and corporate plans, and has fulimplementation of organizational and operational transformations.

“I’m so grateful to have been part of the Centre’s Executive team setting a bold, new vision as we look toward the future,” Karikas said. “This is a great honour for me. I’m excited to lead the Centre, and this incredible, passionate team as continue toward National Status. We’re doing great things every day here and I can’t wait to show the world what we’ve got going on.”

During World War Two men came from around the world to train as aircrew at Saskatchewan air bases. Some came from Czechoslovakia. Two Czechoslovakian airmen never made it back home. They were killed on July 8, 1943 in a training accident at #32 Service Flying Training School (Moose Jaw), and are buried in the Rosedale Cemetery. The men died during pilot training when two, twin engine Oxford Airspeeds crashed into each other.

What is today the 15 Wing Base (RCAF), south of Moose Jaw, was, in 1943, a Royal Air Force Service Flying Training School. The primary role of all such schools was advanced pilot training. in pilot training at an Elementary Training Flying School. There they learned to

After eight to twelve hours of dual control training the student Pilot would solo. Completing Elementary Training took approxiTiger Moth or similar small airplane. The trainee pilot then advanced to a Service larger, more powerful aircraft.

Number 32 SFTS at Moose Jaw provided pilot training on the famous yellow, North American Harvard and also, on twin-engine aircraft. At Moose Jaw, the most common twin engine training aircraft was the Oxford Airspeed.

July 8, 1943 – 80 years ago, a tragic day. Four airmen were killed.

On July 9, 1943 the Moose Jaw Times Herald reported, “Two Royal Air Force instructors and two pupil pilots of Number 32, Service Flight Training School (RAF) at Moose Jaw, were instantly killed Thursday noon when two training planes crashed in the air eight miles south of the station…”. In terms of lives lost, this was #32 S.F.T.S.

It is believed services were held at the Anglican Church on High Street East. The -

The accident involved Oxford Airspeed aircraft # AS 625 and Oxford AS #229.

Killed in Oxford AS 625 were:

B. Blanty, DFM, RAFVR S/N 118740, (Czechoslovakia Air Force # 787448), born Born March 21, 1914 at Lovcice (Velke Lovcice) u Kyjova CZ.

Instructor:

George Moffat Urwin, Age 22, RAFVR, # 134153, son of Alexander Birkbeck Urwin and Eleanor Lily Urwin, of Fawdon, Newcastle-on-Tyne, England

Student: LAC Alfred Charles Channon, Age 21, RAFVR, # 1339156, son of William and Emily Channon, of Durrington, Wiltshire, England

The men are buried at the Moose Jaw Rosedale Cemetery in sequential graves at Lot 8, Block 10, Graves 236, 237, 196 and 197.

Possible Cause of Accident

It is not clear exactly what caused the accident. The accident occurred at noon and both aircraft were preparing to land when they collided.

The twin-engine Oxford Airspeed monoplane was developed during the 1930s as an eight seat commercial aircraft. In 1937, the Royal Air Force selected it as a great little general purpose trainer that could be used to train for several aircrew positions. At #32 SFTS Moose Jaw its primary use was Pilot training.

Based on the aircraft serial number this photo was probably taken over Moose Jaw.

The “Ox-Bow” (Oxford Airspeed) had some interesting features. The propellers were solid wood, not variable pitch, but the cockpit had a ‘dummy’ ‘coarse’

peller that the trainee pilot had to use for landing and takeoff.

Visibility from the cockpit was outstanding – except for the large engine cowlings. As can be seen in the photo of a nose-down Oxford Airspeed, the cowling can easily mask another aircraft below, at an angle and moving at about the same

-

speed. This, combined with possible problems from a bright sun may have been the main factors in the crash.

Example of Obscured Vision

This crashed Oxford AS was NOT involved in the crash. The photo shows how the engine cowlings obscure vision from the cockpit side window, looking down to the port or starboard.

kas (Tara Robinson/Facebook)