Moose Jaw Co-op is challenging other grocery stores in the community to donate whatever they can to support the food bank, which announced last month that it was facing food shortages.
“Taking care of our community is caring for its people. And sometimes, everyone needs a little help,” the Co-op said in a news release.
So, to ensure that vulnerable people in the Moose Jaw area have access to a meal, Federated Co-operative Limited and Moose Jaw Co-op are each donating $5,000 to the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.
“Our community relies on the strength of organizations like the food bank, especially when shortages arise, and we’re stepping up to help support them in their time of need,” the news release continued.
Since the Co-op can’t handle this situation alone, it is putting out a “food store challenge” to Moose Jaw grocery businesses —the Real Canadian Superstore, Safeway, Walmart and South Hill Fine Foods — and inviting them to join it in donating what they can.
“Together, we can all make a difference,” the Co-op added. “Spread the word and let’s rally together to support those who need it most.”
Jason Moore, executive director of the food bank, commended the Co-op for supporting the food-based non-proft.
“Co-op has been a huge supporter of us — all of our local grocers have,” Moore told the Express. “Co-op stepped forward, and I know that (general manager) Geoff Anderson has been really concerned about how we’re doing, as he’s a huge supporter of the community.”
The $10,000 that the local and provincial Co-ops contributed helped kickstart the food bank’s drive to raise $150,000, while other businesses have reached out and said they would donate what they could, the executive director continued.
For example, WOW Factor Media is collecting pledges as part of a 24-hour fast. Moore noted that the business would soon announce how much money it raised but didn’t want to spoil that surprise.
“(Former CEO) Joel (Pinel) reached out to me … with some information and I was absolutely foored by it,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the food bank continues to receive signifcant support from the community after announcing in mid-July that it might have to reduce hampers from two to one per month — and temporarily close — because it was running out of food.
“In such a short period of time, I am absolutely foored by the community’s response, (but) not surprised that our community responded in the way they do,” Moore said. “Moose Jaw is known for its generosity and coming together. (However), I am a little surprised at how quickly things unfolded … .”
This support means it will be “business as usual” at the food bank, which will continue to provide clients with two hampers a month. However, one big change that will proceed — as previously announced — is, starting in October, clients can shop for the food they want.
The food bank serves 800 households a month in Moose Jaw and area, which is double from two years ago, Moore said. Unfortunately, donations did not increase in a similar way to accommodate the extra clients.
Food Banks of Saskatchewan and Food Banks Canada provided 21 pallets of food to Moose Jaw, which, while sounding impressive, would only last for a month, he continued. So, while the organization graciously accepts food donations, it would prefer money because it can stretch those dollars further than individuals can.
Moore added that the food bank is grateful for residents’ support, while he feels blessed to be part of the community.
Since that plea, the organization has received $86,000 in fnancial donations, which is more than halfway to the $150,000 goal.
Update: Jason Moore, executive director of the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, stands in front of relatively full shelves in the warehouse. Photo courtesy Jason Moore
TUES:
THURS:
Square One shifts focus to develop supportive housing complex, community advisory board
Square One Community Inc. is thankful for a recent donation because it plans to use the funds to pursue two new initiatives that focus on supportive housing and community advocacy.
Members of the three area Rotary clubs — Moose Jaw, Wakamow, and Assiniboia — presented a cheque of $8,720 to Square One at William Milne Place on Fairford Street East on Aug. 15.
The money came from surplus funds — including registration fees and private donations — that the club acquired during its district conference in May. The organizing committee decided that if there was leftover money, it would direct the funds to a non-proft group that focused on hope and mental wellness.
“Why Square One Community (Inc.)? Because we thought, in many ways, Moose Jaw is no different than the vast majority of cities across the country (because) homelessness is an issue that affects mental wellness and a sense of hope,” said Glenn Hagel, chairman of the organizing committee.
Square One collaborates with other agencies to fll in gaps where services may be missing for homeless or vulnerable people and increase their hope and mental well-being, he continued.
The non-proft is also a service delivery provider that has developed a strategic plan based on “factual information that they bring to the picture” in Moose Jaw, Hagel added.
Jim Christie, president of the Moose Jaw Club and conference fundraising chairman, said the event was unique because multiple clubs collaborated to organize it for the frst time.
He and others were told it would never work because of the district’s geographical size, while they were told to expect only 100 people. Instead, 140 attended the twoday event.
“This conference will be used as a model going forward,” Christie added.
Mary Lee Booth, president of Square One, thanked the three Rotary Clubs for their generous donation. She
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Glenn Hagel, a Wakamow Rotary member and chairman of the recent district conference (left), presents a cheque of $8,720 to Mary Lee Booth, board president of Square One Community Inc. Also pictured are Max Eckstein, Square One’s special projects co-ordinator, Leanne Pituley, Assiniboia Rotary member, and Jim Christie, Moose Jaw Rotary member and conference fundraising chairman. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
choked up briefy and said it was tough to express her appreciation.
Meanwhile, she said Square One attempts to help the community better understand the needs of the homeless by working with other groups and ensuring there is a “continuum of needs” to move vulnerable people toward independent living.
Therefore, two relatively new initiatives the organization is pursuing include:
• Developing a long-term supportive housing program for people wanting to leave shelters and helping them sustain and maintain independent living
• Assembling a social housing advisory committee comprised of like-minded organizations interested in ensuring every citizen has a safe place to live Booth added that Square One will conduct another point-in-time (PIT) count of homeless people in October to help it “learn the facts so it can fll the gaps.”
Max Eckstein, Square One’s co-ordinator of special projects, said the organization has been regularly collect-
Hunger in Moose Jaw announces upcoming Yara Community Gardens fundraiser
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Farmer’s Market for Charity hosted by Hunger in Moose Jaw and supported by its Yara Community Gardens is returning this month with the aim of reinvesting in the garden space which in turn helps feed the community.
This year’s fundraiser will take place on Saturday, Aug. 24, between 9 a.m. and noon.
“We offer a charity fundraiser every year that benefts our Yara Community Gardens,” explained Sharla Sept, the executive director of Hunger in Moose Jaw.
“So, on August 24th… at our Home Street location, we will be selling fresh produce and baking, and all funds will go right back into the Yara Community Gardens.”
The Yara Community Garden is actually a rental location, Sept explained, and individuals are able to rent an individual plot for a nominal fee paid to Hunger in Moose Jaw who oversees the garden space.
Each renter is given the freedom to do as they wish with their produce, but part of the rental agreement includes a clause where each of these individuals are asked to donate a small portion of their produce to enable farmer’s markets such as this to take place.
So far, she said these market events have seen “a really good turnout” and around $2,500 is raised each year to support the ongoing project.
Proceeds from the annual farmer’s markets are reinvested into the space and cover the cost for upkeep so that individuals in need can rent a plot at an affordable price point. In addition, a few existing sheds and tools kept on site and freely provided for renters to use are maintained from these funds.
“Our gardens rely on that community support,” explained Sept. “We appreciate each and every dollar that comes through because it helps us build, grow, and keep these gardens going with opportunities for more and more community members to be involved.”
Sept is also requesting that any visitors bring a reusable bag with them to keep with the spirit of the local green space and its focus on environmental responsibility.
For more information about Hunger in Moose Jaw, call 306-692-1916 or visit HungerInMooseJaw.org. The organization also maintains a Facebook page at ‘Hunger in Moose Jaw.’
To apply for a garden plot next spring, contact Hunger in Moose Jaw on or before March 1st when registrations typically open for the upcoming growing season.
The Farmer’s Market Fundraiser will be held at the Yara Community Gardens located along the 100 block of Home Street West.
ing data about homelessness, with the data confrming that there is a gap with supportive housing services in Moose Jaw.
“We’re focused here on providing a continuum of support, so we’re hoping that Square One’s introduction into the supportive housing industry … will help with that … and provide some long-term success for people experiencing homelessness,” he continued.
The data that the non-proft acquired focused on meeting with other agencies that deal with housing security and analyzing what happens to people when they enter the shelter system, Eckstein explained.
Square One discovered that people who don’t belong to a “targeted group” — sobriety issues, having a disability, or exiting a correctional centre — didn’t have services to meet their needs, he said. Shelters then become stopgap measures.
“We like to look at shelters as an entry into a continuum of support, and we’re hoping to be the next (piece) in the puzzle,” he stated.
Square One has spoken with Moose Jaw Housing Authority about using the William Milne Place building for long-term housing suites because the venue has 15 rooms, Eckstein said. This will not confict with the Willow Lodge shelter nearby, since that is for people who have nowhere to stay.
“And working intensively with a support worker, which, initially will be myself, somebody’s life will begin to change and recovery becomes possible,” he added.
Square One is just starting the supporting housing initiative, so it will be months — maybe next year — before it launches. Meanwhile, the non-proft expects the advisory committee to begin working in October and include reps from all three levels of government.
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Rotary Club’s pancake breakfast fundraiser nets $700 for Square One activities
Financial proceeds from homemade pancakes, homecured bacon, and 255 litres of imported Ontario syrup have helped the Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow support the community’s homeless population.
The club kicked off its month of pancake breakfast fundraisers on Aug. 10 by hosting a scrumdiddlyumptious meal at the Kiwanis River Park Pavilion & Lodge in Wakamow Valley during the regularly scheduled Farmers’ Market.
The organization served 115 plates of hot and tasty fapjacks, and those sales generated $692 to support Square One Community Inc.’s community initiatives.
The club’s other summer breakfasts will be held in the same location on Saturday, Aug. 24 and 31, from 9 a.m. to roughly noon. All the proceeds will support the club’s community-focused projects, such as literacy, health care and youth scholarships.
Club members presented Square One with a cheque on Aug. 15 at the latter’s headquarters at William Milne Place — the Old Fire Hall — on Fairford Street East.
Monty Bennett, the past president of Wakamow Rotary, said the breakfast fundraiser was a great experience even though they ran out of pancakes an hour before the grills were to cool off. He credited Square One’s social media promotions of the event for bringing out such a large crowd.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
— when Bennett is cooking the food.
“But it is an opportunity for us to be social with each other (because) so much of our lives are spent on screens,” he continued. “It’s great to get together over tables.”
Calvert noted that many people who attended the breakfast were there to support Square One and its community efforts. He added the organization’s decision to focus on long-term supportive housing is one reason why the Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow raised funds for it.
Ferguson, Square One’s secretary and fundraising chairwoman, said the group was humbled and honoured that the Rotary Club selected it as the recipient for the frst pancake breakfast.
She pointed out that she spoke at the Rotary International District 5550 Conference in May about Square One’s activities in Moose Jaw, so it was also a blessing to be invited to the Saturday morning pancake breakfast.
“It wasn’t just about the fundraising; it was the sense of community that we felt as our two teams worked together,” Ferguson said. “We were in the heart of Moose Jaw with the beautiful surroundings — it didn’t get better than that.
When asked why pancake breakfasts are important, Lorne Calvert, current club president, said it’s “part of our human condition” to join over food and breakfast. He jokingly noted that the opportunity to have breakfast is too good to pass up — it has “an attraction all on its own”
“I can’t stress enough how wonderful it is to be able to partner with a community member,” he added. “And in the Rotary Club, we are absolutely thrilled to have Della (Ferguson) and the Square One people as partners.”
Doug Morman Named July’s Notoriously Good Neighbour
Submitted
The City of Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce named Doug Morman as Moose Jaw’s “Notoriously Good Neighbour” for July.
According to his nominator, Rachell Magee, Morman is a neighbour who does it all but asks for nothing. “My neighbour Doug has been caring for my lawn and snow removal for the last few years since I’ve been unable to do it myself,” explained Magee. “He always does a thorough job and never asks or takes anything in return and says a smile and thank you is plenty.” Adding he cares for her yard as if it were his own.
Magee noted that he isn’t just blessing her with help, he offers it to everyone in their area. “He is an absolute joy to be around and is kind-hearted, caring and a loving neighbour. I am so blessed to have Doug! He helps everyone in the neighbourhood both young and old, removes snow from driveways or cars and cuts other lawns all the time.” She said Morman has another neighbour on their block over for coffee often to check in on them. Magee fnished her submission by saying Morman is a hero and everyone on the block loves him.
As an offcial “Notoriously Good Neighbour”, Morman was awarded gift certifcates to Tunnels of Moose Jaw, a token of appreciation for his contributions to the community. Moose Javians can nominate their Notoriously Good Neighbour by using the Report An Issue feature on MooseJaw.ca.
Har vest Under way in Sask .
“So to have that opportunity was a gift.”
Ferguson noted that the supportive housing initiative will take plenty of money to develop, so the organization is working hard “bit by bit” to move it forward, which is why every donation helps.
Monty Bennett, past president of the Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow (left), and current president Lorne Calvert (right) present a cheque of $692 to Square One Community Inc. reps Della Ferguson and Max Eckstein. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Editor’s Note
I always have my eyes and ears open for talking points that spark interest. I was recently listening to a tv program about anxiety and found the topic one might fnd interesting, especially in these troublesome times and fastpaced lives we live in.
Apparently, anxiety is the epidemic of the age and no doubt, concerns about another world war loom closer everyday and there are a lot of things going on around us that probably affect our mental state of being subconsciously.
Anxiety and stress are of a similar strain but not quite the same. Google says that “stress is any demand placed on your brain or physical body. Any event or scenario that makes you feel frustrated or nervous can trigger it. Anxiety is a feeling of fear, worry, or unease. While it can occur as a reaction to stress, it can also happen without any obvious trigger.”
It’s a very sad thought to know that children nowadays deal with a lot of anxiety, driven by insecurities that quite often are out of their control.
Found online at https://cps.ca/en/documents/position/anxiety-in-children-and-youth-diagnosis, The Canadian Pediatric Society says that “anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concerns affecting Canadian children and adolescents.”
The website says that within ten years of 2008, the degree of prevalence in anxiety has increased substantially in children and youth, saying that in 2018, “11% to 19% of adolescents and almost 9% of children self-reported an anxiety disorder” and “professionally diagnosed anxiety disorders in youth 12 to 24 years old doubling from 6.0% in 2011 to 12.9% in 2018.” They state that this increase may refect a true rise in prevalence or be the result of other societal factors, including greater community awareness of mental disorders and decreased stigma around them.
In Psychology Today found at today.com/ca/ blog/liking-the-child-you-love/202311/8-ways-parents-ramp-up-anxiety-in-their-children” style=”color:rgb(70,120,134)” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener noreferrer”>https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/ blog/liking-the-child-you-love/202311/8-ways-parents-ramp-up-anxiety-in-their-children, in the article 8 Ways Parents Increase Children’s Anxiety, Jeffrey Bernstein PhD says, “Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s emotional well-being, and unintentional actions or behaviors may contribute to the development of anxiety in children. He gives a number of ways parents may contribute to their child’s anxiety, including overprotection, modeling anxiety as children often learn by observing their parents, overly critical behavior, lack of emotional expression as children need to feel it’s OK to share their emotions without judgment, inconsistent parenting, micromanaging, and a transmission of excessive fear or worry about general or specifc events or situations.
The article then offers some suggestions as to helping children manage anxiety. The tips offered are as have open communication, establish routine and predictability, teach coping strategies, promote healthy lifestyle habits and lead by example.
These are trying times we live in and it’s in the children’s best interest for parents to continually monitor their children’s mental wellness and set their future in a good trajectory.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
Phone: 306.694.1322 Fax: 888.241.5291
468 High St. W., Moose Jaw SK S6H 1T3 www.mjvexpress.com
Publisher: Robert Ritchie - rob@mjvexpress.com
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Thank you to all the contributing writers, without your time and support, the paper would not look the same. Send your stories, events and pictures to: joan@moosejawexpress.com
Editor:
BennysFoodTruck making the rounds
SNAPSHOT: Krystle Hagen, the owner of Benny’s Bistro and Catering and former Moose Jaw resident, made a stop at the Tristain’s Treats parking lot on Aug. 14 to bring delicious home cooking and her passion for food to hungry Moose Javians. After a planned stop from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hagen soon found herself sold out of almost everything on the menu. The popularity of her cooking could easily be seen from the long line of guests just off Main Street eagerly waiting to try one of her signature dishes. “I’m a frm believer that if you have a passion for something, it shows in the work you put into it,” she wrote. She plans to make her next stop in Moose Jaw before the end of August in case you missed her, with a date and location to be determined. To learn more, visit BennysFoodTruck. ca or visit her Facebook page, ‘Benny’s FoodTruck breakfast/burgers/baking.’ Photo by: Aaron Walker
Four local retirement homes help support the
food bank during its time of crisis
In a heartwarming display of community spirit from Moose Jaw’s senior community, several local retirement homes partnered up to contribute a sizable donation in support of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank last week.
To compile the donation, staff, residents, and their families from four local retirement homes — Atria Mulberry Estates, Aspira Retirement Living, Points West Living, and The Bentley by Venvi — came together to raise $4,810.00 in support of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank on Aug. 15.
“We’re all just really happy to be helping out the community of Moose Jaw with our donation to the food bank from the retirement communities in Moose Jaw,” announced Carol Bachiu, the resident engagement manager at Aspira West Park Crossing. “We’re so happy to be able to do this donation.”
The presentation came in part from donations that each participating retirement community collected on behalf of the food bank throughout the frst part of August. The Aug. 15 presentation involved a group of residents who opted to attend thanks to transportation buses provided by each of the respective homes.
“We (had both) food and cash donations that each community (has taken) down (to the food bank) …,” explained Tricia Oblander, the community sales and marketing manager at Atria Mulberry Estates. These non-perishable food items were presented alongside the cheque during the morning’s food bank visit.
Following the donation, everyone was invited to take a
tour of the food bank and meet the hardworking volunteers who work behind the scenes to help feed the community.
The donation came at a crucial moment for the local food bank as it still claims to be recovering from a possible temporary closure due to rising costs and a shortage of donations this summer. As of Aug. 16, the food bank’s executive director Jason Moore said the non-proft has so far achieved “just over half” of its $150,000 goal that was frst announced on July 18.
Venvi The Bentley Moose Jaw is located at 425 Fourth Avenue Northwest and can be reached at 306-692-7161.
Atria Mulberry Estates is located at 220 Mulberry Lane and can be reached at 306-694-5020.
Points West Living Moose Jaw is located at 917 Bradley Street and can be reached at 306-693-3777.
Aspira Retirement Living is located at 1801 Meier Drive and can be reached at 306-694-4744.
The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West and can be reached at 306-692-2911 during its regular business hours or by email at EndHunger@MJFoodBank.org.
Harvesting gets a modest start
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Two district farmers at the Miller Express ball game were talking about the unharvested crop.
“I think it is going to vary,’’ said one.What do you think?”
“I don’t want to think it, but I don’t think there’s anything in the heads,” replied the other.
Farmers began to fnd out what the yields are like with six per cent in the bin, according to the Saskatchewan Agriculture weekly crop report.
Sixteen per cent in the southwest is done with 11 per cent in the southeast where Moose Jaw is located.
Crop variability is wide. A farmer northwest of Moose Jaw had a 25 bushel per acre durum crop. A farmer in the Rockglen district took off 400 pounds an acre of lentils, — about one-third of the provincial fve year average.
Soil moisture continues to diminish with 23 percent of cropland rated adequate and the rest short or very short.
In pastures the situation is worse with 16 per cent adequate and 84 percent short or very short.
Kreutzwieser
Regular Contributors: Jason Antonio
Fifty-fve per cent of winter wheat harvest is complete with 42 per cent of fall rye.
Among larger acreage crops 28 percent of lentils and
JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
From left to right: Carol Bachiu, the resident engagement manager with Aspira West Park Crossing; Tricia Oblander, the community sales and marketing manager with Atria Mulberry Estates; Patty Johnston, Venvi The Bentley’s activity director; and Jennifer Montgomery, the general manager at Points West Living Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Residents and staff of four local retirement homes stopped by the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank to donate $4,810.00 plus non-perishable goods on the morning of Aug. 15. Photo by: Aaron Walker
26 percent of peas were off by by Aug. 12
Durum harvest was eight percent done with spring wheat at two per cent.
Canola and mustard only saw one per cent harvested.
Moderate water shortages are being experienced in 34 per cent of pastures in the southwest and southeast.
in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
By Maxton Eckstein Square One Community Inc. Coordinator
the community around us. It’s the city or town we live in, it’s the parks and the community centers. It’s our friends and the people we went to school with, it’s our downtown entertainment and festivals, cheering for our local sports teams. It’s the smile and warm hello we give to someone we pass by on the street.
Like an extended family, we are tied to our communities around us in an undeniable way. Even when our lives and backgrounds look different, we all experience a shared community. Our city around us is as much of a home as the residences we live in.
Club 55+ Registration Day
unhoused citizens have built a life here, enjoyed friendship and family connections.
Home. What makes a home. A Home is something most of us enjoy, a safe place to kick up our feet at the end of a long day. A place where families grow and make memories. A home, though, is more then the residence we live in. It’s also
As part of the ongoing “Meet Me in Mortlach” initiative, Mortlach residents Mike Beaudoin and Terry Bittles are showcasing the true hospitality of small town Saskatchewan by launching a silent auction to help support the distressed Moose Jaw & District Food Bank this month.
The silent auction will be managed by Jason Moore, the executive director of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. It’s planned to begin on the week of Aug. 5 and will conclude at the end of August.
“This is a silent auction,” Beaudoin said. “We’ll be announcing the big winner on the 31st of August, and then Darren Jones after that will be coming out and carving the base of it with (the winner’s) name, company logo, or design.”
The idea behind the silent auction comes from an ongoing dream to transform the village of Mortlach into a renewed tourist destination through the “Meet Me in Mortlach” initiative.
As of the Bohemian Market’s grand opening on July 20, Beaudoin said the village has received between 75 and 110 extra vehicles every day and said The Pit Stop Diner is “busy as hell.”
“We’ve got our food truck set up and we’re getting more vendors coming all the time,” he added. “A lot of them just come and go (but someone is always onsite).”
The sculpture is the work of Darren Jones, who is returning after his earlier creation of the Don Cherry statue now on permanent display as a landmark at the market’s entrance.
The auction of Jones’ latest sculpture will also run in tandem with regular auctions held at the venue, which have two
We have all seen the increases in people experiencing homelessness. Even though someone may lack a permanent address, they remain a civic citizen in a community. They remain tied to shared social and cultural experiences the community has to offer. They remain entitled to enjoy the public spaces and amenities, just like the rest of us. Many
Not having a physical home is life shattering, but losing a sense of belonging in a community devastates someone’s recovery journey and creates a “Double Homelessnes”. What happens to someone when instead of that friendly hello and smile, you see faces flled with fear and disgust. You see people cross the road to get away from you. You see people laughing. You hear untrue and cruel things said about you in public forums, from politicians and media outlets. You are told to relocate from public spaces you have frequented all your life. You start to believe you don’t belong, you start to believe your community is no longer, a place to call your home.
Diminishing someone’s civic citizenship can come in many forms. At a micro level, it manifests in the direct way we treat the unhoused population. From
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
retired auctioneers hired to oversee the process. Almost anything is accepted and anyone can reach out to donate.
Mortlach’s auction is distinguished by the rate it charges for commissions.
“The cheapest (average auction) rate right now is a 30 per cent commission,” Beaudoin said earlier. “So, by the time people go in and sell their stuff… they’ve already lost 45 per cent of whatever they’re selling (due to taxes plus commission).
“We’re 10 per cent. Out of that 10 per cent we’re paying our staff, and the rest is being set up where we can do things in the community (and maintain operations).”
“People get 90 per cent of the money for whatever they sell, or they can donate it to the community,” he added.
A portion of the proceeds from the Bohemian Market will be donated to charity, and this year’s primary focus will be the food bank in Moose Jaw.
For this month’s silent auction, by comparison, half of the proceeds will help support the food bank during one of its most challenging summers, and half will be reinvested to grow the Bohemian Market venue.
In addition to the auctions, Beaudoin also plans to set up a food truck so locals and visitors can buy a meal for themselves and, optionally, a meal (or two) to donate.
“A portion of (proceeds from each donated meal) goes to the food bank,” Beaudoin confrmed. “The more people (we can help) right now the better it’s going to be.”
Jason Moore, the executive director of Moose Jaw’s food bank, said the silent auction is now open with a starting bid of $4,500.
“It’s a Facebook silent auction, so people can go on (our page). The post is right at the top of our (Moose Jaw & District Food Bank) page and it’s a simple comment bid,” Moore said. “You can keep an eye on it as well by checking the comments frequently.
“We’re not out of the woods yet,” Moore said. “October 31 is still a ways away and we need to keep our donations coming in.”
To participate in the silent auction, visit the food bank’s Facebook page, ‘Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.’
The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West and Jason Moore can be reached at 306-3132757.
obvious avoidance, unkind words, and jeering to misusing emergency services to move people out of public spaces. At a macro level it can be as simple as requiring an address to speak at public meetings, or referring to people only as “taxpayers” instead of citizens, eluding to the idea that you don’t belong if you don’t contribute fnancially.
Sometimes when we pass by an unhoused person, we don’t have the resources, time or knowledge to assist. Helping someone feel like they belong costs nothing. A smile and a hello, mentioning lasts nights game, or even a comment about the weather reminds someone that they share something with you, a local commonality. In those moments someone goes from an “other” to a valued citizen. Valued citizens feel like they belong, and people who belong fnd the hope to recover. Our small acts of kindness can change a life.
To contact Mike Beaudoin, call 1-306861-0001.
As a reminder, the auction is set
Darren Jones completed his latest sculpture last week and now it’ll be sold through a silent auction to help support Mortlach’s Bohemian Market and the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. Photo by: Mike Beaudoin
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Potato harvest much like a family treasure hunt
With garden fork in hand, the family gathers around the frst plant and anticipation grows as the fork is carefully inserted into the ground.
Will there be potatoes to harvest as the plant is removed from the soil?
Harvesting potatoes is like a treasure hunt: some plants will yield more than others, and loud cheers might ensue if the fork hasn’t penetrated the largest potato on the vine.
This week’s recipes offer ideas in which freshly-harvested spuds are in the spotlight.
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WARM GERMAN POTATO SALAD
6 cups cooked new potatoes, cubed or sliced
6 bacon slices
1 small onion, chopped
3/4 cup water
1 tsp. dried parsley
2 tbsps. four
1/4 cup vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
Boil potatoes but do not overcook. Fry bacon, crumble and set aside.
Fry onion in bacon fat until soft and clear. Stir in four. Add water and vinegar. Stir until thick. Stir in parsley, salt and pepper and bacon.
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Add hot potatoes and stir until covered evenly. Serve immediately.
Herb Roasted Baby Potatoes
2 lbs. baby potatoes, quartered 1/4 tbsp. or more Dijon mustard
2 tbsps. olive oil
1 clove garlic, chopped
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
Par-boil potatoes for 10-15 minutes. Mix all other ingredients in a large bowl. Add boiled potatoes and toss to evenly coat.
Place potatos on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 425 degrees F for 15-25 minutes. Serve hot.
•
POTATO CASSEROLE
Small new potatoes, with peel
1-10 oz. can cream of chicken soup
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1 small onion, minced
salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup grated cheddar cheese
Arrange potatoes in a single layer in an ungreased casserole.
Mix soup, onions, garlic powder and salt and pepper and stir to mix well.
Spoon over potatoes.
Sprinkle the cheese on top.
Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes. Cover the casserole and bake another 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Makes about 4 servings.
• • •
POTATO VEGETABLE SALAD
4 cups cubed potatoes, cooked and chilled
5 hard boiled eggs, chopped
1/2 cup grated carrot
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup salad dressing or mayonnaise
2 tbsps. sweet green relish
salt and pepper to taste
3 tbsps. milk
5-6 tiny tomatoes, quartered
1 tbsp. reserved dressing
Combine potatoes, eggs, carrot, celery and onion in a large bowl.
In a small bowl mix salad dressing, relish, salt and pepper and milk. Remove 1 tbsp. of the dressing mixture and set aside.
Add remaining mixture to potatoes and toss well.
Spread tomato pieces over potato mixture and then drizzle with the reserved dressing. Chill until ready to serve.
Note: tiny broccoli pieces may also be added to the salad.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net
Mosaic Community Food Farm organizers help spread awareness at the public library
With the aim of introducing the art of agriculture to the next generation and to spread awareness for the lesser known Mosaic Community Food Farm, a few farm organizers held a children’s workshop at the Moose Jaw Public Library on the afternoon of Aug. 13.
The farm-based event, Fun with Food and Farming, came about as a collaboration between the public library and the Mosaic Community Food Farm in Moose Jaw.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“It’s really great for kids to get their hands in the dirt and understand where the food that we eat comes from and what it means to farm,” explained Allison Taylor, the food farm co-ordinator for the Mosaic Community Food Farm.
The event, which is the frst such outreach project that Taylor recalled in recent years, is part of an effort to do more community outreach for the local food farm.
“So why we wanted to do this event today is to kind of build on that and get more people to know about the farm,” she said.
The event also aimed to be educational, as evidenced by a number of vegetables that attendees had an opportunity to sample, a plant potting station, and a newly planted seed that each guest could take home with them afterwards.
Attendance was above expectations for the food farm’s frst public outreach program at the library, and Taylor said there were over 20 people in attendance which “was awesome.”
“There were kids from all different backgrounds, and they all seemed very eager to learn, smell, and taste the different herbs and vegetables that we brought in today.”
The future of the food farm depends on volunteers, and part of the educational message at the library was a tie-back to this reality. Without enough helping hands, Taylor explained, the farm simply won’t be able to operate at the level it’s intended to.
Spanning one acre, the Mosaic Com-
Morning’s work
Boys from the Baildon Hutterite Colony take a short break after a morning’s work picking weeds and cucumbers in the garden. Ron Walter Photo
munity Food Farm is part of an effort to help feed local families in need.
“All of the food that we grow at the farm gets donated to fve different organizations in town,” she said.
“It’s a community farm, the food is for the community, so any support at all by the community makes it what it is.
“We’re kind of hidden away around some houses, but we’re there and we exist,” she added.
No agricultural experience is required to volunteer and Donna MacQuarrie-Bye, the general manager of the Wakamow Valley Authority that oversees the farm, said a few helpers with horticultural knowledge would be greatly appreciated as well.
“(Volunteering with the Food Farm) gives an opportunity to connect with the environment, build new relationships, and give back to the community,” MacQuarrie-Bye added. The experience, she said, is naturally fulflling for mind, body, and soul.
Volunteer opportunities are open for individuals, businesses, non-proft organizations, and school groups. Normal volunteer hours run from Monday to Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each respective day.
For more information or to volunteer, you can contact the Wakamow Valley Authority offce at 306-692-2717 or by email at Wakamow.Events@sasktel.net. You can also visit the garden’s website at Wakamow.ca/Mosaic-Community-Food-Farm.
The Mosaic Community Food Farm is located in Wellesley Park just off Bank Street.
Patty Saba showcases her newly potted spinach plant at the public library on Aug. 13. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Eliana (left) and Avery (right) show their new plants following the Fun with Food and Farming event on Aug. 13.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
David (left) and Mathew Shindo (right) enjoyed the Aug. 13 farming event at the public library and David brought a newly planted lettuce seed home with him. Photo by: Aaron Walker
By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
Letting It Happen –Self-Seeding Annuals
This time of year any plants growing in the garden are welcome! Those plants that come back year after year are especially welcome! Enjoying annuals that will set their own seed and come back year after year have a special appeal, although they need a bit different culture than the other more regular “perennials”.
Self-seeding annuals are exactly what is needed in some areas in the garden. They are also a huge beneft if you are planting a pollinator garden. Not all annuals are self-seeding, but if the seed packet says “self-sows freely” or “Hardy Annual”, chances are that it will. Soil conditions and climate determine what will self-seed. For example, late-blooming annuals such as zinnias may not have time to set seed and mature prior to frost. Furthermore, not all annuals will grow true from seed or in
other words, look exactly like their parents. To get exact replicas, you need open-pollinated or heirloom seed. If the annual in question is one of the many hybrids now available, the offspring revert to the original parent colours. In my garden, the mauves, blues and whites, of the original packet of bachelor buttons have almost entirely gone back to the “cornflower blue” of the original plant. When I plant new annuals in my garden I sometimes plant them after the frst hard frost in late fall but more often don’t remember to plant them until spring, usually several weeks before the last frost date. It is obvious, but in order to self-seed, there must be seed. So don’t deadhead right up to frost. Mid-august usually allows enough time for the last flowers to set seed and mature. And while plants are designed to seed themselves, I sometimes shake poppy seed heads in new corners of the garden, or sprinkle a handful of bachelor button seed heads where I feel more colour is needed.
In spring, watch for the new seedlings poking their heads up from the ground. And watch that spade because it is easy to wipe out the new flowers along with the ubiquitous weeds. However, you may also quickly discover that there are far more seedlings than you want or they are about to strangle out something else. The simple remedy is to thin them out. Choose the largest, sturdiest seedlings and remove the rest, sometimes transplanting to new chosen spots. It is
easy to do with small seedlings - a trowel-full of dirt with the seedling in the middle and most of them don’t notice they’ve been moved. Shirley poppies (Papaver rhoeas) self-seed profusely and they come in many shades of pink and red, singles and doubles. Calendula offcinalis or pot marigolds have daisy shaped flowers of orange, rust, yellow, cream, apricot. They love the sun and good drainage. Expect them to revert, over time, to simpler forms and fewer colours. Sunflowers will pop up in places you didn’t expect and sometimes leaving one or two in an unlikely spot creates a relaxing informality. California poppies (Eschscholzia californica), Oriental poppies (Papaver orientale), johnny jump-ups (Viola cornuta), sweet William (Dianthus barbatus), love-in-a-mist (Nigella damascena), forget-me- nots (Myosotis sylvatica) will all weave their way through your garden without consultation.
Self-seeding annuals are undemanding and reliable. The problem is that you have little idea and less control over where they will turn up. Depending on your point of view, they help to create an unfussy, relaxed, cottage garden with new surprises each spring. Or they create disasters which need immediate help. If you are ready to let go of some (or most) of the control in your garden, then welcome to the world of self-seeding annuals.
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?
Moose Jaw-Wakamow MLA Gregory Samuel Lawrence will represent himself during his November trial, and because of potential conficts of interest with the regular judges, a non-local judge will handle the proceedings.
Defence lawyer Estes Fonkalsrud appeared on behalf of the retiring politician in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Aug. 13, saying Lawrence was prepared to proceed with the planned one-day trial on Monday, Nov. 18 and would be self-represented. Therefore, the court should hold a case management conference (CMC) to narrow down the triable issues.
Lawrence has pleaded not guilty to charges of assault, contrary to section 266 of the Criminal Code, and choking, contrary to section 267 of the Criminal Code. Fonkalsrud was unsure if a judge from Moose Jaw or outside the community would manage the CMC but noted that Lawrence wasn’t concerned about any conficts of interest with a local judge overseeing that gathering.
Federal Crown prosecutor Suzanne Young agreed with having a CMC but thought a court-appointed counsel (CAC) would be required for the trial so that person could cross-examine the complainant on Lawrence’s behalf.
“I know Mr. Lawrence’s position … is that he’s going to oppose that (CAC),” Fonkalsrud replied. “It’s a
Provincial Court Report
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
case where he’s indicated that the complainant is an adult and has had numerous contacts with Mr. Lawrence since the alleged offence.
“So, he doesn’t feel it’s a case that he shouldn’t be allowed to run his own trial. But that can be discussed (during) case management.”
Judge Brian Hendrickson agreed that having a case-management conference was important but said he would not hear it since he would feel conficted. Moreover, since Judge David Chow was also unlikely to oversee the CMC, a relief judge from elsewhere would be required.
Hendrickson then set the case management conference — held for unrepresented accused people — for Tuesday, Aug. 20 at 1:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, Judge Hendrickson said that during the CMC, the Crown and Lawrence would need to discuss the application for court-appointed counsel for cross-examination purposes. However, he didn’t think there was any need to contact the Ministry of Justice’s court services for assistance — nor would it become involved — if the CMC judge ordered a court-appointed counsel for the trial.
According to previous information, the Moose Jaw Police Service charged Lawrence with assault on Jan.
31, after it began an investigation on June 27, 2023, into complaints of assault during an interaction between two people.
Lawrence had announced on Jan. 30 that he was resigning from the Saskatchewan Party caucus after it became known that he was the subject of a police investigation.
Lawrence, who had previously announced he would not seek re-election following a single-vehicle motorcycle collision in August 2023, now sits as an independent Member of the Legislative Assembly for the remainder of the term.
He has been the MLA for the Moose Jaw Wakamow constituency since 2011, winning by 201 votes over NDP incumbent Deb Higgins. Lawrence then won by 695 votes over NDP candidate Karen Purdy during the 2016 election and won by 822 over NDP candidate Melissa Patterson in 2020.
The next provincial election must occur on or before Monday, Oct. 28, according to election rules. In the Wakamow constituency, Sask. Party candidate Megan Patterson will face off against NDP candidate Melissa Patterson; neither is related.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Animal Protection Offcer (APO) Kimberley Doig and two colleagues visited a Craik-area farm in May 2023 after receiving an anonymous call that there were allegedly dead cattle on the property.
Upon arriving on May 8, the three offcers with Animal Protection Services of Saskatchewan (APSS) saw one dead animal in a pasture and a second deceased bovine in a slough. Moreover, they saw other cattle in “thin condition” — their hips, ribs and spine bones protruded — while there appeared to be minimal pasture growth and no supplemental food.
Doig — the lead investigator — called Thomas (Tom) Henry Miller, the owner of the cattle and 36-hectare (90-acre) property, but there was no answer. Miller wasn’t at home when the three APOs visited his residence in Craik, so they returned to the farmyard and left notices for him to call.
“On May 9, I did call him back (after missing his call the night before) to discuss concerns with the cattle, identifying that we did see some deceased cattle as well as minimal pasture growth … ,” Doig said in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Aug. 13, the frst witness of Miller’s six-day trial.
The Crown has charged the cattleman with breaching The Animal Protection Act and the Criminal Code. The act’s section 4 prohibits people from causing animals to be in distress, and section 23 accuses people of failing to comply with a protection order. The code’s section 445(1)(a) accuses people of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal.
None of the allegations have yet been proven in court.
During the conversation, Miller told Doig that one cow died after falling through ice on the slough, a second died from complications during calving, and a third — elsewhere in the yard — likely died of pneumonia.
The APO then issued a corrective action order demanding that he contact a feed extension specialist and a veterinarian and ensure appropriate sources of food and water were available.
Doig and two colleagues returned on May 12 to determine whether Miller had followed the order. He told her that he hadn’t contacted the specialist or veterinarian, although he had removed the cow carcass from the slough. He also showed her bins containing barley while he flled several troughs with feed.
Doig observed more pasture growth, although there was still minimal on-site water. She learned that there was anoth-
er large dugout on the property, but obstacles prevented the animals from reaching it.
Miller contacted the feed extension specialist, who told him to add more supplemental feed, give the cows rolled barley, increase the volume of grain they were receiving and provide extra hay.
The APO contacted the cattleman on May 18 about whether he provided the extra hay but received no response.
After acquiring a search warrant, on May 24, Doig, other APOs, a licensed veterinarian, a group of cowboys and an RCMP offcer visited Miller’s yard intent on removing the animals.
Miller declined to come out to see the seizure.
Doig and the APOs began documenting the yard, noting that in one area, there were no hay bales, mineral supplements, salt licks, recent grain feeds, or pasture growth. In another area, they found feed troughs with some minerals and supplemental food, but it was spoiled.
Meanwhile, in a large shelter, they found a fourth dead cow.
“There was a vast accumulation of feces in this (shelter). No signs of bedding, but numerous feet worth of feces,” Doig recalled.
Doig seized the 55 animals and put them in protective custody because of their condition and because Miller had failed to comply with the order. Meanwhile, Miller eventually came and took photos of his animals and property.
The next day, Doig told Miller that he had to follow more requirements before she released his animals. He agreed to comply, texting her over several days to say he had made the changes.
On May 31, Doig and Don Ferguson, APSS’s executive director, met with Miller, who gave them $27,000 to reacquire his animals and pay the shipping fees. She also gave him a new corrective action order to follow.
A day later, Doig visited Miller’s property and saw suffcient feed, including eight hay bales and plenty of rolled barley.
During cross-examination, Doig said that the anonymous call came from Dennis Muirhead, a fellow APO. She said she took the lead investigating the situation since it was in her area.
Miller’s trial concludes on Monday, Aug. 19.
Next Gen Car Show
Blue truck with wings, Austin, Tonka truck, Ron Walter photos
Reflective Moments
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Smooth sailing along a few blocks here and there
Some thoughts on a variety of topics:
I have developed an affnity for a three or four block stretch of Hall Street West, the area leading up to and ending at Ninth Avenue Northwest.
Those are the blocks that earlier this summer were repaired and resurfaced to provide bump-free travel for residents of the city who regularly use that stretch of infrastructure.
Talk about smooth sailing!
I told Housemate the delight I felt at not having to dodge those increasingly-large pot holes on that street that I use at least twice a week heading to an appointment. I think he suspected some exaggeration. And then I took him with me for a special fact-fnding journey.
His appreciation for the excellent roadway was immediate, quickly agreeing with me that instead of bumping along other popular streets, we should do our summer-time cruising along the repaired blocks of Hall Street.
I wonder if residents of those blocks have noticed us hanging out in their neighborhood, going up and down and back and
forth during a sunny, summer evening? We mean no harm and the Neighborhood Watch should not be concerned.
Now might I suggest similar repairs to 13th Avenue Northwest between Grace and Caribou, and Fifth Avenue Northwest from Oxford to Caribou? After all, we’d like to expand our travelling horizons where we don’t have to fear losing a hubcap in one of those street-wide holes. •
There were no fridges or stoves or dresses and lingerie for sale on Aug. 11 at the site of what used to be Sears Department Store.
Instead, guests could amble through the old store site to take in the variety of cars and trucks displayed there at the Next Gen indoor car show.
Indoor car shows are regular events in other large communities and we were anxious to see the vehicles and how they were arranged and what space was available for other show-related events. In other words I was on a fact-fnding mission, what some might call “snooping.”
I saw several vehicles that appealed to me, suggesting to my inner self that I
could happily drive one of them to the highway for a true test drive of what special elements might have been added under the hood.
While some armchair organizers were dissing the club for charging admission and offering other unhelpful suggestions, we were more than happy with what we saw, heard and learned during the afternoon.
Some friends don’t understand why I would spend a Sunday afternoon looking at cars and trucks that I would never ever expect to purchase. Who says I might not someday have that vehicle with the wingdoors or that black truck that would require me to carry a step ladder to gain entrance. I might not know much about what’s under the hood, but I defnitely know what I like. The wings have it this time.
Thanks to the Next Gen Car Club for offering another way to spend a summer Sunday afternoon. Drive on!
•
Congratulations to John Hall, currently the sixth Command Chief Warrant Offcer of the RCAF, who will retire later this month from the regular force after 37
Homeowner Tasha Dobni is frustrated with how city hall handled her four calls about a Dutch Elm Disease-infected tree and believes the original contractor — and not city workers — should have removed it.
Dobni called the parks and recreation department on July 19 about an elm tree that a private company was removing two doors away, where she learned that the company had received a removal permit.
However, a day later, she discovered that the company had left the stump, prompting her to call city hall again. She informed an employee that stumps must be removed and ground down during the cutting ban season. The employee, who worked in the cemetery division, allegedly promised to pass along Dobni’s concerns.
Meanwhile, Dobni took pictures of the three-foot-high stump and contacted the Ministry of Environment, which gave her the contact info of city hall offcials.
On July 23, Dobni contacted parks director Derek Blais and explained the situation. She learned the municipality only handles elms on city land — like boulevards — and not on private property.
“I question(ed) this, as the City of Moose Jaw issued the permit. So, if you don’t regulate this, then who does?” she said, noting she could hypothetically eliminate an elm from her backyard at any time.
Furthermore, Dobni thought the original contractor was responsible for fully removing the tree. Another concern she shared was that this company was likely performing similar work elsewhere, but there was no follow-up or potential consequences.
Blais allegedly “changed his attitude” and said he would review the situation, including potentially fning the company under legislation. Dobni said she left her number so he could call her with an update.
The Express was unable to reach Blais for comment by press time.
Several days passed, prompting Dob-
ni to call Blais on July 26 to ask whether the city would address the stump. His receptionist answered and said the company had allegedly resolved the issue by removing the stump’s bark and pouring a diesel fuel mixture/24D ester on it.
“I got the feeling that (the receptionist was also) writing (this) off as resolved,” added Dobni.
The homeowner checked the yard and found that the company had neither removed the stump’s bark nor the stump. She contacted another tree company, which called city hall to determine what was happening. This time, Blais’ receptionist allegedly said that city staff would remove the stump.
Two city workers arrived at 4 p.m. and, three hours later, had the stump eliminated.
Dobni pointed out that taxpayers paid for the stump’s removal — a $500 cost — since city crews were required, even though the frst tree removal company should have done it. Meanwhile, she wondered how many phone calls one citizen
had to make to city hall before anything was resolved.
“I raised my concerns as I have two large, healthy elm trees in my backyard. Therefore, I want nothing more than to preserve their health and the rest of the neighbouring elms … ,” she said. “I felt the City of Moose Jaw has no care or concern or knowledge of regulating any bylaws or enforcing them. In addition, they should (be) regulating their permits and tree companies.”
Dobni thought that when issuing a permit, city hall should demand photographic evidence of a project’s completion.
City’s response
City hall told the Express by email that all tree service companies must abide by provincial Dutch Elm Disease regulations, including using chemical treatments to kill stumps.
Meanwhile, the city typically removes stumps on city property using inhouse resources and only contracts out removals when crews or equipment are unavailable.
“We can say that when our parks and recreation department (is) made aware of a tree with Dutch Elm Disease, (the) normal procedure is to remove the tree/stump in a timely fashion, so no chemical mix is typically required,” the email said.
After receiving Dutch elm wood permits from city hall, contractors must remove the tree and dispose of it in the landfll and then remove or treat the sump within a “reasonable timeframe,” the email continued.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
years of dedicated service and commitment. He served as the Wing Chief Warrant Offcer at 15 Wing Moose Jaw from 2017 to 2019.
His depart with dignity ceremony was scheduled for Aug. 20 in Ottawa.
After his offcial retirement, Hall will assume the role of RCAF Senior Non-Commisioned Member succession planner. He also plans to spend more time with his family: wife Therese, children Brandon, Elora and Emily, and his grandchildren.
Best wishes John from all your friends in Moose Jaw.
•
•
•
Welcome to the Moose Jaw and 15 Wing communities to Micheline Bertrand, the new Chief Warrant Offcer of the 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, affectionately known as the Big 2. She replaces CWO Erik Keur who is retiring after 34 years in the military.
Bertrand has been here for a month now and has already become involved in community events.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
If the city becomes aware that the company did not comply with the legislation, it will give specifc directions about what is required to comply.
“If proper procedures or timelines are not followed and our municipal inspectors feel there is a threat to our urban forest, we are sometimes forced to step in and
complete the work ourselves,” the email said.
The city added that there have been 46 known cases of Dutch Elm Disease this year, and if residents have concerns about possibly infected trees, they should contact the parks and rec department.
The east end backyard where the diseased tree was located. Photo courtesy Tasha Dobni
The tree stump that private contractors failed to remove. Photo courtesy Tasha Dobni
By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Outlook for helium investors not as rosy as in 2022 BIZWORLD
The helium mining revolution attracting government funds seems to have fzzled in the three years since $500 million in provincial funds was announced as an incentive to explore.
Helium companies are struggling with fnances to get into production after three years.
While most helium explorers will develop producing wells and make a good proft, investors must be patient, no longer having hopes of obscene profts.
Helium prices soared when the United States stopped selling from reserves in 2013. Prices soared to a high of $73.75 US per thousand cubic feet in 2022, more recently settling under $10 a thousand cubic feet. Less proft to be made now.
Another drain on helium prices is the worldwide expansion of exploration and increased production in the Middle East.
One major factor in reducing the
outlook for helium stocks was the stock market crash in January 2022. Once the market fell investors shunned companies with no revenue.
The only way helium explorers could stay afoat was to sell new shares. Without investor support stock prices fell into the penny range.
Just as an example, Royal Helium shares high price was March 2021 at 84 cents. Today the stock trades at seven cents.
In the interim Royal Helium and others diluted shareholders interests by selling large amounts of cheap shares to stay in business.
Most helium companies started with about 50 million shares. Today Royal Helium has 357 million shares out.
That increase in shares severely reduced proft possibilities for early investors.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MON, AUG 26.
City hall’s human resources department plans to run a four-month pilot project to determine whether a temporary support position can reduce the time supervisors spend on paperwork.
During its July 22 personnel meeting, city council unanimously authorized HR services to hire a term position in the department, with funding to come from budgetary savings from reduced recruitment costs in HR and administrative savings from the operations department. Council then unanimously approved the meeting minutes during its Aug. 12 regular meeting.
TJ Karwandy, director of HR services, told the Express that this initiative will focus on supporting supervisors in the operations department’s public works area. Typically, such supervisors have 30 to 40 ongoing reports,
Some companies are further along in development.
Royal Helium was one of the frst to actually produce helium from two wells in Alberta.
The company has drilled eight other wells on four properties and has a fvewell joint venture with an Indigenous band.
If the business plan works out Royal could be quite proftable in three years.
First Helium, fve cents and 153 million shares, thanks to two oil wells that have produced cash fow, has drilled two helium wells.
The company is looking for cash to build a processing plant.
Desert Mountain Energy, 27.5 cents with 90 million shares, was all set to produce helium in Arizona in 2023 when a permitting authority shut operations down.
The company moved to a New Mexico gas feld planning production late this year.
Avanti Helium, 15.5 cents with 93 million shares, has drilled three wells with production planned this year.
Global Helium, six cents with about 48 million shares, has two Alberta wells, no production yet.
A number of other explorers have entered the helium exploration feld. Among them are Pulsar Helium, Total Helium and Helium Evolution.
Helium Evolution has a different business plan allowing others to drill property for a share of production, This plan conserves funds for the company.
Don’t forget. Apple Pie day in Mossbank goes from 1 p.m to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 21.
New HR position at city hall aims to reduce supervisors’ paperwork load
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
so their day-to-day activities — such as staffng, orientation, or training — “can eat away a lot of their time” and distract them from pursuing customer service-focused initiatives.
So, the pilot project will determine if this term position can handle those day-to-day, “procedural HR-type” activities and free up time for supervisors to focus on high-value, front-line operations.
“If you’ve got someone who’s a supervisor for streets and roads, well, they’ve got expertise in that that we’d like (them) to spend more time on that,” the HR director remarked.
The project will run from roughly September until the end of December, and if it goes well, then the HR department will bring a proposal to the 2025 budget dis-
cussions and ask council to hire a permanent, full-time support position, said Karwandy.
The term position is expected to pay up to $25,000, but that depends on how quickly the department can fnd someone and when the successful applicant can start, he continued.
Karwandy added that the money for this position arose because HR services budget certain costs annually, such as relocation expenses when bringing in candidates for interviews or recruitment costs when using the services of a professional headhunter. The department hasn’t spent as much money this year in those areas, so that is how it built up a small cushion of savings.
Mural artist to repair fve pieces that have a combined age of 119 years
Mural artist Grant McLaughlin will soon begin repairing several artworks — and fully restoring one — that have a combined age of 119 years, including one from when the community’s mural initiative frst began. McLaughlin and Derek Blais, director of parks and recreation, visited every mural last summer and fagged ones that he could update in 2024. Furthermore, some deteriorated over the winter, so he added those to the list. The artist presented fve murals to the public art committee during its July meeting, where members reviewed the maintenance and restoration list and approved the initiatives for $5,000.
This year’s murals include:
• Veterinarian Mural (2007, by Noella Cotnam) on the 0 block of Hochelaga Street West; touch-ups required on faded areas
• A Tribute to the Métis Community (2007, by Ray Renooy) on the 0 block of Hochelaga Street West; touch-ups required on faded areas
• Centennial Mural (1992, by Grant McLaughlin) in the Crescent Park Amphitheatre; graffti damage and other repairs required
• Hopes and Dreams (1991, by Grant McLaughlin) at 21 Fairford Street West wall; requires cleaning and
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
waxing
• History of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company (2004, Grant McLaughlin) at 250 Thatcher Drive south wall; the mural requires a full restoration, so the artist will replicate the artwork on dibond panels McLaughlin will spend $500 repairing the frst four murals and $4,500 to fully replicate the ffth artwork.
McLaughlin acknowledged that three of his murals that he’s repairing are “pretty old” — one is 33 years old, which is how long the City of Moose Jaw has had such artwork. Meanwhile, repair work is usually required for murals that are over 10 years old, while only “tiny touchups” are possible for south-facing pieces.
“It’s expected, but most of the murals I’ve gotten into fairly good shape, but somebody’s going to have to take over that someday,” he added. “So I’m trying to get ones that maybe need a little bit more work done fnished now so they won’t need work for a while.”
The fve murals are all important in their own way, McLaughlin said.
A group of artists from outside Moose Jaw created the Métis and veterinarian pieces for separate conferences. However, they took paint that was meant for brick and applied those liquids to metal backings.
Meanwhile, the Crescent Park mural “is certainly more important” since it was done for the community’s centennial, while Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh,
helped unveil it, said McLaughlin. It usually requires work annually because of its age, the type of wall it’s on, and the fact it’s a magnet for graffti.
Furthermore, he created the Hopes and Dreams mural during the program’s frst year, where he donated the work and the city covered the cost of supplies.
“It’s weathered pretty good for 33 years, so I’m going to have to spend a little bit more time on that one,” the artist said, noting it honours early homesteaders and is based on a photograph from that time.
Also, the History of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company mural honours that organization’s 100th anniversary and contains images celebrating the community’s history.
McLaughlin says it will take roughly four weeks to update all fve murals, but that’s based on the weather and his energy levels. He will start with the Exhibition mural frst — he’ll begin around Aug. 19 — since that’s the largest project and “long overdue.”
He expects to fnish that in two weeks.
“I just hope that someone else is willing at some point to take over. You have to learn to paint everybody else’s style as well as your own. And that’s not something everyone can do … ,” McLaughlin added.
“I’ve enjoyed all my time spent doing murals and (it’s) just something I hope I keep doing for a while yet.”
The Veterinarian Mural. Photo by City of Moose Jaw
The History of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company mural. Photo by City of Moose Jaw
The Hopes and Dreams mural. Photo by City of Moose Jaw
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MON, AUG 26.
Royal Canadian Air Force planes, sacred First Nations teachings and birds connected to Moose Jaw are three subjects that artists plan to carve or paint into dead trees in Crescent Park.
City hall and the Crescent Park Foundation — with support from the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery — announced recently that Karen Watson, Sadi Rose Vaxvick and Carly Jaye Smith were selected for this year’s Crescent Park Tree Art Project.
This initiative, which began in 2016, seeks to give artists the chance to create art from recycled tree stumps. This year, 11 trees in Crescent Park have been cut down into workable stumps.
During its Aug. 12 regular meeting, city council unanimously approved the foundation’s 2024 Tree Art Project request to install the three artworks in the park. Further, council agreed that the foundation would fund all the costs for the artworks, city administration would draft an installation and maintenance agreement and the mayor and city clerk would sign the agreement.
The overall request came from the public art committee, which recommended that council accept the project.
RCAF 100th birthday
Watson — who has contributed to the tree project before — plans to celebrate the Royal Canadian Air Force’s (RCAF) 100th birthday with her project, a coun-
Newest Crescent Park tree artworks to focus on RCAF, First Nations, local birds
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cil report said. The project committee chose her project because it paid homage to 431 (Snowbirds) Air Demonstration Squadron, which is familiar to Moose Javians.
“In Karen’s vision, she will capture two Snowbirds in a spiral formation with human silhouettes underneath and a Snowbird logo carved into the trunk,” the document stated.
Watson, a resident of Moose Jaw, is a self-taught artist with a passion for sculpting realistic forms in wood and clay. She performed her frst carving in 2017 while working with her father and her passion grew from there.
Over the past few years, she has carved several projects on residential properties, such as a soldier, eagle, horse head and peacock. Her frst carving in Crescent Park was in 2021, titled “The History of the Band Festival.”
Sacred animals
Vaxvick submitted two proposals to the committee that conveyed “the spirit of Moose Jaw’s diverse past, present and future,” while they also marked the 150th anniversary of the signing of Treat Four, the report said.
The committee selected Vaxvick’s seven sacred grandfather teachings initiative, which connects to her Aboriginal heritage since she is Nehiyaw and Saulteaux and is registered with Ochapowace reserve.
The seven sacred grandfather teachings include love, respect, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility and
truth, with animals representing each characteristic — eagle, bison, bear, raven, beaver, wolf and turtle, respectively — carved into the tree.
“(Vaxvick) has chosen to wrap a continuous long braided sweetgrass around the tree to separate the animals that have a connection to the land,” the report said. “Sweetgrass has three strands that represent mind, body and spirit.”
The artist also plans to add coloured stains to complete the artwork, which will bring out the natural wood grains and protect them long-term.
Birds of the park
Smith, a self-taught artist from Moose Jaw, has created most of her work downtown and contributed to that area’s walking art project, the report said. She has painted works on benches, garbage bins, glass windows and clothing, while she has also created murals that grace buildings such as Palliser Regional Library and the Chamber of Commerce.
Smith’s works are colourful, while she will paint her tree in pop-art style that will make a great addition to the park, the document continued. She submitted two proposals, with the committee choosing one that focused on the various bird species in Crescent Park.
The artists have already begun carving their projects and should be completed by September, the report added.
Council appoints 12 students to this year’s youth advisory board
City council has appointed 12 students to sit on this year’s youth advisory committee, with the group expected to begin its activities in September.
Council unanimously approved the 12 individuals to the advisory board during its Aug. 12 regular meeting. The youths’ terms begin on Sunday, Sept. 1 and conclude on Monday, June 30, 2025, or until a successor is appointed.
The dozen youths include:
• A.E. Peacock Collegiate: Kaylee Hogeboom and Lucas Kastning
• Vanier Collegiate: Arlyn Dequina and Maria Pouteaux
• Central Collegiate: Drew Amel and Ben Ansell
• Cornerstone Christian School: Drew Biette and Mateah Purdy
• Riverview Collegiate: Emma Russell and Lexus Schoffer
• Saskatchewan Polytechnic: Altaf Iqbal Mansuri and Nandinee Barot
• École Ducharme: None
The city clerk’s offce contacted each school during the previous school year and encouraged them to forward recommendations of two youths who were interested in joining the advisory committee and who could
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represent the school, a council report said.
The city clerk’s offce received the applications and consent forms from the schools between April and June.
The youth advisory committee consists of 19 voting members, including one council member, two members from each school, two youths at large between 18 and 25 years of age, one youth from an accredited distance-learning school, and one home-school student.
The council report noted that the advisory committee has several responsibilities, such as:
• Endeavour to increase positive public awareness and understanding by youths of local government and assist in developing new outreach and/or communication policies, strategies and programs
• To network with peers and community leaders and to participate in a forum that is open, welcoming and fun
• To provide communication between youths of Moose Jaw and city council that will enhance the quality of life, health and well-being of those youths
• Make recommendations on youth recreational opportunities and community activism
• To identify things in the City of Moose Jaw that are valued by youths, including the things that are considered assets, strengths and opportunities in our
Former Fairford Street East café
being re-converted
to residential use
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A building that once functioned as a residence before being converted into a restaurant is now being re-converted into a residence after the business closed several years ago.
During its Aug. 12 regular meeting, city council unanimously approved a discretionary use application for a oneunit dwelling at 360 Fairford Street East. This property is in the R4 core-mixed residential district, where one-unit dwellings are considered discretionary uses.
City administration received a discretionary use application from the owner on July 16 to change the building’s use from a café to a one-unit dwelling, a council report explained.
The same structure previously functioned as a one-unit dwelling until 2020, when the owner converted it into a restaurant. City hall issued a permit for this change on Sept. 30, 2020, with occupancy granted on Dec. 7, 2020.
“City administration does not have any prior record of a discretionary use approval for a one-unit dwelling on the site prior to 2020,” the report said. “However, even if such an approval had existed, it would have expired after one year of the use no longer being present.”
The zoning bylaw says that if an approved discretionary
use or form of development “ceases to operate for a period of one year or more,” the discretionary use approval is no longer valid, the document continued. Therefore, a new discretionary use approval is required for this proposed change of use.
The surrounding residential area includes R4 and R3 districts intended for higher-intensity uses, although one-unit dwellings are also common, the report said. East of Fourth Avenue Northeast, the neighbourhood is mainly comprised of similar dwellings in the R1 district.
City administration did not expect the developer to make too many exterior changes to the building since it was constructed as a home, while any changes would not be noticeable from the outside. Also, since the building was no longer a restaurant, it would have fewer vehicle trips, noise, and related activities.
Michelle Sanson, director of planning and development, told council that city administration had no issues with this project, while the building should have fewer negative effects on the neighbours. Also, that area had been zoned R4 since 1979, so — based on the building originally being a one-unit dwelling — she didn’t know when the city changed that zoning designation.
community
• To act as a positive advocate and provide leadership experience for youths
• To network with student councils and other youth organizations. Meanwhile, the group’s expectations include:
• Recognize that the chief role of the City of Moose Jaw is to provide exceptional customer service to customers, citizens, visitors of Moose Jaw and each other
• To create a city of communities, a city that cares about its people, the environment and the opportunities to live, work and prosper
• Recognize the importance of teamwork to provide the best possible service to internal and external customers
Calgary pilots thankful for Moose Jaw’s hospitality after plane has engine trouble
Calgary businessmen Charlie Pastuszka and Josh Fong recently experienced some of Moose Jaw’s friendly hospitality after their airplane developed engine trouble and they were forced to land at the municipal airport.
Pastuszka and Fong purchased a second-hand 1965-era Citabria plane in Winnipeg on May 5 and, after fuelling up, began what they thought would be an uneventful fight to Cowtown, with a visit to Regina for their only fuel stop.
“I should have clued in then by the small drips of oil from the drain tube that something might be amiss,” Pastuszka told the Express by email. “However, the aircraft had not fown much in the last year, which sometimes produces some drips, so I thought nothing of it.
“Unfortunately for us, this was a telltale sale of bigger problems to come.”
The duo had a tailwind leaving Regina, which helped them reach and pass the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport quickly. However, they noticed that the plane’s engine oil temperature was rising and the oil pressure was dropping. This indicated either an internal engine problem or a lack of engine oil.
Pastuszka and Fong reviewed a map and discussed whether they should continue fying to Swift Current or divert back to Moose Jaw; they chose the latter option.
After what seemed like an eternity since the men were more than 100 kilometres from the airport and fying into a ferce headwind, they landed uneventfully.
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“The next sequence of events that unfolded was a true testament to the kindness and generosity of the community of Moose Jaw,” said Pastuszka.
He recalled that since it was Sunday, Provincial Airways’ maintenance shop was closed, forcing them to call the after-hours phone line. They reached one of Airways’ mechanics, who was enjoying the afternoon with his family at Buffalo Pound. However, he offered to help while driving back into Moose Jaw.
The mechanic spent an hour fxing the plane’s problem, an oil drain plug issue. Thanking the man, Pastuszka and Fong took to the Prairie skies, but the same problem reared its head, and they decided — based on their combined 26 years of fying — to return to Moose Jaw.
They returned and parked their plane just as the sun was setting, which dashed their hopes of reaching Calgary that day. Pastuszka also connected with John Humbert, an aircraft mechanic with decades of experience working on civilian and military machines. The mechanic agreed to help them.
The airport had a courtesy car available, which the two businessmen appreciated since they drove to a hotel for the night “and enjoyed a much-needed debriefng beer.”
The next day, a windy and rainy day, Humbert met the businessmen at the airport, where he had organized a hangar spot for their plane for repairs. Scott Anicknap, a hangar tenant, allowed some planes to be moved into his hangar and offered the
Calgarians a fair rental rate.
By May 7, Humbert, Fong and Pastuszka had removed the airplane’s engine and put it on a pallet to ship to an engine shop in Calgary. The two businessmen then received a ride from a Provincial Airways employee to Regina and few home commercially.
A few weeks later, the plane was partially disassembled and shipped to Alberta, where it received a new engine. Mechanics discovered that the original engine had a catastrophic failure and would have completely failed with a few more hours of operation.
“Refecting on these events over the last few months, I can’t help but think that it wasn’t ‘Will anyone help us?,’ (but) it was ‘Who wouldn’t help us?’” said Pastuszka.
“Everyone that we spoke to or dealt with at the Moose Jaw (Municipal) Airport was empathetic to our situation and wanted to do what they could to make sure that the two of us — three if you count our airplane! — were taken care of.”
Pastuszka thanked Moose Jaw for its hospitality, which was comforting during a stressful time. Even before the men began removing the engine, other hangar tenants were inviting them for “hangar chats” — sharing stories and forming relationships with other pilots.
“You all made a bad situation have a bright side and attested to the kindness of your community, which I will never forget,” he added.
Student-led fundraiser aims to help families cover school supplies this fall
As summer holidays draw to a close, one student is hoping to make the transition into a new school year more navigable for Moose Jaw families with a fundraiser to help alleviate the cost burden of fall school supply purchases.
Austin Harvey, now a third-year University of Regina student, launched the Back to School Supplies Fundraiser on Aug. 8 with this goal in mind.
“The fundraiser is meant to help families who are in need, because it’s kind of hard to pay for things now, especially groceries and back to school (supplies),” Harvey said.
“I imagine it’s a lot of stress for families — I know it was for me when I was going to (elementary and high) school.”
The Back to School Supply Fundraiser is now accepting donations. Harvey will accept anything from gently used or new backpacks, indoor shoes, and painting shirts to pencils, markers, and white erasers. A full list is available on the affliated graphic.
Harvey’s running the fundraiser himself and Kat Owens, his mother, is helping him manage the administrative side of things.
Harvey isn’t new to helping others in need. Back in high school, he organized a bake sale fundraiser in support of TeleMiracle with a teacher mentor and a few classmates that ran for three successful years.
“I have pretty long hair, and back then
I had even longer hair,” he said. “So, we did a shave my head (event) at the school to raise money, and we were pretty successful doing that.”
This summer Harvey wanted to do something new to help out.
“I wanted to do something for the community, because I just wanted to do something, and I thought this was something that would be doable and nice,” he said. “When I went to school, I knew that
would have been really appreciated.”
To ensure all donations make it into the hands of students who need them most, Harvey is reaching out to school principals to help with distribution.
“The hope is to get enough (supplies) to help a couple schools for what they need specifcally,” he said, adding that his ability to help will depend on how many donations he receives.
Harvey now plans to visit several lo-
cal businesses to inquire about donations, and he’s open to the idea of forming a charitable partnership with anyone who’s interested.
“For the long term, I hope to do this every year and kind of make it a thing,” he said. “I think that would help. And when it gets a name for itself, (I aim to) get a lot more donations and help out the schools in bigger ways.
“Let’s help children succeed by alleviating the burden of purchasing these supplies for their (families), (and) ensuring a more productive and less hectic back-to-school year,” he wrote.
To donate, Harvey is planning a pickup and drop-off system that will depend on the level of interest he receives. If successful, his goal is to pick up supplies during a batched run on Sundays.
You can also make an e-transfer donation by reaching out, and Harvey said 100 per cent of these proceeds will be used to purchase additional school supplies.
To contact Austin Harvey, text or call 306-631-4419.
You can also email him at Harvey. Austin2004@gmail.com or visit ‘MJ Talks!’ on Facebook and reply to the Aug. 8 post by Kat Owens. Both Harvey and Owens will accept direct messages through Facebook.
The Back to School Supply Fundraiser is expected to last until the start of the 2024-2025 school year.
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Calgary businessmen Charlie Pastuszka and Josh Fong were forced to divert to the Moose Jaw Municipal Airport on May 5 after their plane experienced major engine trouble. Photo submitted
RED HOT DEALS
First Rider program introduces young students to school bus safety
Excitement and perhaps a little nervous energy was in the air as soon-to-be kindergarteners and Pre K students gathered at Lindale Elementary School on the afternoon of Aug. 15 to learn about school bus safety and ride aboard a school bus for the very frst time.
The program took place in the afternoon and was also repeated at 6 p.m. and, one day earlier, two similar programs took place at St. Margaret Elementary School.
“The purpose of this event is for your children to understand what it’s like getting on the bus,” explained Ward Strueby, Holy Trinity’s director of education.
“We want that frst day of school to be about the magic of the frst day of school, and not about the anxiety of getting on the bus,” he said.
In a nod to the shared topic of safety, Mayor Clive Tolley added a few remarks on the topic during his opening address.
“I remember when we were kids in and around this environment,” he said. “We were always told: ‘Look both ways before going anywhere or crossing the street.’ I think in today’s world (you’ve got to) look 360 (degrees) basically.”
Photo
Cornerstone
Mayor Tolley spoke about the need to teach young students not only about bus safety, but also addressed safety concerns around the use of cellphones, headphones, or any other gadgets on the way to and from school.
“I really like the fact that it’s a fun learning experience, and bus safety is number one,” he added.
Following the address, students boarded three separate school buses with their caregivers and were given an approximately 10 minute trip with stops at St. Michael Elementary School and Ecole Palliser Heights School before returning to Lindale.
Most students seemed to enjoy the trip
Christian School going through a facelift
Cornerstone Christian School’s maintenance crew has been hard at work this summer to beautify the school’s outward appearance in preparation for a new academic year this fall. Funding for the project was made available through the Launch to Legacy fundraiser and the work — including a new paint job and newly featured “CCS” lettering on the western wall of the building — was carried out by Brian, Steve, April, Kathy, and their crew. To learn more about the fundraising campaign, visit CCSMJ.ca/ FromLaunchToLegacy. Photo by: Aaron Walker
and one girl from outside of Moose Jaw described her frst ride as “exciting.”
Ryan Bauer, the director of education, picked up on the spirit of these young soonto-be students as preparations were being made for the introductory remarks.
“(As) I was walking along the side of the school and by the parents, a little person who was walking along was really excited,” Bauer said. “I thought, ‘This is fantastic.’ It’s a great way to start the school year…”
Parents who attended the First Rider program were given a pamphlet with updated information on bus routes and rules that pertain to school bus etiquette.
One new policy introduced this school year is a rule where busses will be cancelled if the temperature — including the windchill factor — reaches minus 40 Celsius or colder.
Furrows and Faith Retirement Villa
To determine this, the school’s transportation department will keep an eye on the temperature throughout the winter from four information sources: the Weather Network, Environment Canada, the Weather Channel, and AccuWeather. Temperatures will be recorded at 5:30 a.m. and bus drivers, social media channels, and BusPlanner Web administrators will be notifed at 5:55 a.m.
To register for transportation or to make changes to your currently established service, you are asked to contact your child’s school to complete the associated application form. Parents are asked to contact their school if their child will be changing schools, moving to a new address, or changing daycares well in advance to avoid interruptions.
The parent portal is available online at BusPlanner.PrairieSouth.ca or at Bus. HTCSD.ca.
For more information, Prairie South School Division can be reached by phone at 306-694-8750 or by email at Transportation@PrairieSouth.ca. The division’s online form can be found at PrairieSouth.ca.
The Holy Trinity Catholic School Division can be reached by phone at 306-6945333, Ext. 7, or by email at Transportation@ HTCSD.ca. The division’s online form can be found at HTCSD.ca.
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Students gather for pre-trip safety briefng before embarking on their frst-ever ride on a school bus on the afternoon of Aug.15 at Lindale Elementary School. Photo by: Aaron Walker
One young student from outside of Moose Jaw described her frst bus ride as “exciting.” Photo by: Aaron Walker
Driver Denny Nikolic was one of the three drivers who took students for their frst bus ride on Aug. 15. Here, he briefs students during a stop at St. Michael Elementary on the proper way to exit the bus when they arrive at school.
by: Aaron Walker
Fun Friday Quilters showcases some of its fnest works in support of the Timothy Eaton Gardens
To display some of their fnest works and in an effort to help raise funds in support of the Timothy Eaton Gardens centre, the Fun Friday Quilters group met up on Aug. 14 and put 95 unique pieces on display for everyone to come and see.
“There’s only nine of us, and we just decided to put a show on,” said Linda Drysdale, a member of the Fun Friday Quilters group.
The Fun Friday Quilters have been meeting at the Timothy Eaton Gardens for the past two years as of this coming December, and many the group’s nine members are also part of the larger Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild in Moose Jaw.
The group meets at the Timothy Eaton Gardens on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for “a stitch and a visit,” Drysdale explained.
This recent show was intended as a fundraiser to help support the centre where the group regularly meets, and although none of the quilts were specifcally up for sale, a silver collection plate was placed at the door for any voluntary donations. A raffe basket was also available to be won with proceeds being added to this total.
The quilts entered in Wednesday’s show weren’t up for judging so they weren’t held to the usual limitations expected at quilting shows such as this. Because there was no jury involved, many of the creations were simply a display of each quilter’s talents and had no set time limitations.
Every quilt, however, was exclusively the creation of a Fun Friday quilter and many of them had previously been entered
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in one or more of the group’s bi-annual quilt shows.
The show proved to be quite popular, Drysdale said, and with only one hour to go there had been around 100 unique visitors.
One of the quilts, titled the “Mystery Quilt” and created by Brenda Boos this year, displayed some of the unique, creative attributes that spoke volumes about the many hours of dedication behind the show’s displays.
This piece was created by hand when Boos found an old cardboard suitcase that was previously owned by Jean (1918 –2004) and Charlie (1916 – 2015) Patience.
Boos never learned who originally made or donated the pieces, but in the spirit of Jean’s memory, the quilt was meticulously put together and given a new backing to help preserve it.
Because of the material’s age, Boos employed a unique twist to the fnal product.
Another quilt, which was the creation of Drysdale herself and titled “Bicycle Quilt,” incorporated material she fell in love with and purchased back in 2017. At the time, she had no idea what would come of it.
In September 2019, she cut the pieces and in 2020 she started to work on it during a quilting retreat. She continued with this until she found her inspiration in early 2021.
“While on a road trip to Yorkton in June 2021, I found the perfect pink fannel backing at Colette’s Sewing,” she wrote.
“I decided I loved this quilt so much that I could not give it away.”
The Fun Friday Quilters group meets at the Timothy Eaton Gardens on Fridays. Anyone interested in learning more about the group is free to stop by during one of their meetings and for more information you can contact the centre at 306-6944223.
The Timothy Eaton Gardens building is located at 510 Main Street North.
In what appears to be a number of unassuming tied threads throughout the quilt, Boos had actually hand-tied them to secure a fresh backing to help preserve the overall quilt. If she attempted to hand sew each square, Drysdale explained during a tour she offered to give, the material could’ve been compromised beyond recovery.
A patchwork of memories: One local quilter’s crazy quilt ofers something to remember grandma by
Last week, the Fun Friday Quilters group met up at the Timothy Eaton Gardens to host a quilt show with the intention of helping to raise funds in support of the centre where it regularly meets for a Friday “stitch and a visit.”
One of the pieces displayed on Aug. 14 was a crazy quilt created by Moose Jaw resident and Fun Friday Quilters group member Heather Grover.
Grover started quilting back in the ‘80s when she took up the hobby of scrap quilting made from spare clothing. She soon expanded into higher quality fabrics that she purchased from quilting stores, and has since discovered something new that’s attracted her attention.
“I’ve since gone back and I discovered crazy quilting, which I really, really like because it uses so much fabric that’s just sitting around,” she said.
“It’s a way of recycling and taking something that somebody else would dismiss and (doing something useful with it).”
One of her favourite attributes of the crazy quilt method is its unique ability to create a nostalgic piece that speaks to an individual at a personal level.
The quilt Grover brought to Wednesday’s show was also a way to remember her grandmother by.
“A lot of (the material was) … bits and pieces from my grandmother. She was
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a fabulous quilter, as well as doing crocheting, knitting — she did everything,” Grover said.
When her grandmother died, Grover was out of town and returned to fnd only a shoe box flled with bits and pieces of fabric, gloves, doilies, and similar items that were going to be simply disposed of.
“I took them and turned them into crazy quilt and used all the pieces that she
had,” Grover said.
Now, despite initially only having a few scraps to remember her grandmother by, Grover has something far greater — a unique quilt that both honours her grandmother’s passion for the craft and is a way to incorporate a few personal items that she’d regularly use.
Her grandmother, who she said, “never needed a pattern” and who could “just
look at a doily and then sit down and make it,” would certainly be proud of the masterpiece.
Grover said she’ll do the occasional quilt on request, but she clarifed that — due to limited time and a part-time commitment — it has to be something she’s interested in doing. Her hand stitched quilts involve a lot of time and doubtless require a certain level of passion to create.
To Grover, the quilting process transcends the simple act of sewing and becomes a way to elicit fond memories.
“When you can turn around and take… pieces of fabric and bits of lace and stuff, and then put it into something that’s new and innovative… a lot of people love looking at it because it brings back memories for them,” Grover explained.
“They remember those doilies, and they remember that type of love (from a grandparent or parent), and they remember some of the lace and even some of the fabrics they can identify with. And so, it becomes almost a time capsule of fabrics.”
To learn more about the Fun Fridays Quilters group, you can visit them during a regular Friday meeting at the Timothy Eaton Gardens from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. To confrm their attendance, the centre’s receptionist can be reached at 306-694-4223.
The Timothy Eaton Gardens building is located at 510 Main Street North.
A look at some of the quilts at the Fun Friday Quilters show on Aug. 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker
A close look at the hand-sewn details of “The Seasons of My Life” by Susan Noren. Photo by: Aaron Walker
“Bicycle Quilt” by Linda Drysdale. Photo by: Aaron Walker
One of the quilts at the Fun Friday Quilters show at the Timothy Eaton Gardens quilt show on Aug. 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker
“Mystery Quilt” by Brenda Boos. Photo by: Aaron Walker
An example of the stitch work that helped preserve the “Mystery Quilt” created by Brenda Boos. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Heather Grover (pictured) stands next to her crazy quilt displayed at the Timothy Eaton Gardens on Aug. 14. The quilt, which incorporates fabric, doilies, and other items from her grandmother, has become the perfect way to remember her by.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Authentic Nigerian favour will soon spice up Moose Jaw’s culinary scene
Anyone who has had the opportunity to try Adeola Afolayan’s jollof rice sauce — sold under the brand name “DeeBesties Food Range” — will be delighted to hear that the Nigerian-born resident is now opening a new restaurant with much more of the same culturally rich cuisine.
DeeBesties Nigerian Restaurant & Bar is set to hold its grand opening event on Saturday, Aug. 31, and everyone’s invited to come down and try Moose Jaw’s newest food option.
“Its going to be a Nigerian restaurant and bar, and we’re going to be serving basically Nigerian food,” explained Afolayan, owner of the new venture and a Moose Jaw resident for the past two years.
“From selling my Jollof rice sauce, people were like, ‘Tell me more about Nigeria,’” she said. “And I thought, ‘Okay, we need to start a restaurant.’”
After living in the United Kingdom for a decade, Afolayan and her husband Ademola moved to Canada and one year later moved to Moose Jaw. She described Moose Jaw as being reminiscent to her previous home in the UK as it’s similarly a small, closely knit community.
The restaurant’s name, DeeBesties, is a portmanteau combining Afolayan and her husband’s nicknames together.
“Before I got married to my husband, he was my best friend,” she said. “So, I always called him ‘Bestie.’” Similarly, her name, Adeola, is commonly simplifed to “Dee.” The rest is history.
In the new venture, Afolayan is the cook and her husband — who is also an instructor at Sask. Polytech in Moose Jaw — will handle quality control and similar logistics.
“We talked about how Nigeria is this kind of place where everybody close from
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work (goes to) a bar or a restaurant where we can just sit down, relax, have a whiskey or a beer and watch football (soccer),” she reminisced.
Her goal is to now transform the space into a nostalgic step onto another continent.
“There’s this culture shock for any international person moving to a new country where they don’t have food (or a space
where) they can feel at home,” she said.
Unlike some North American restaurants that alter the original culinary preparation, Afolayan wants to keep the experience authentic.
“It’s exactly the same taste. We’re not substituting anything,” she confrmed. “We’re using all authentic ingredients that will make you feel at home away from home.”
To ensure this authenticity, she’s following the same recipes she grew up with including cooking instructions passed down from her mother and ingredients sourced from the same providers that serve Nigerian restaurants and markets.
A few of the culinary options planned for the restaurant include gizzards and plantains cooked together in a traditional sauce, samosas, peppered chicken, roasted goat meat, shawarmas, and unrefned traditional rice. Every morning, she plans to bake a fresh batch of Nigerian Agege bread.
“We (want)… the people of Moose Jaw (to) see something different from burgers... and from the regular fries or pizza that everyone is used to,” she said.
One feature that sets DeeBesties apart is the ability for all guests to have a say in the music played during their meal. This, she said, will help set the vibe when you’re eating, and on occasion an experienced DJ will be called in so everyone can slide the chairs aside and dance.
To celebrate the restaurant’s grand opening, the frst 20 guests will receive a 20 per cent discount and Afolayan said all the items on her menu will be available from day one.
“I want the people of Moose Jaw to keep an open mind and come try the new food,” Afolyan said. “Come and try the vibes of Nigeria in Moose Jaw and you won’t be disappointed.”
You can follow DeeBesties on Facebook at ‘DeeBesties Food Range’ for additional updates.
DeeBesties Nigerian Restaurant & Bar is located at 20 Main Street North in the former National Café building and will celebrate its grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Saturday, Aug. 31 at noon.
EAST DIVISION CHAMPS: Miller Express defeat Saskatoon, advance to WCBL Final
Moose Jaw takes 17-6 win at home in Game 2 of best-of-three series before advancing to championship with 5-3 win in Saskatoon Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Moose Jaw Miller Express picked up back-to-back wins over the Saskatoon Berries early last week to advance to the Western Canadian Baseball League championship fnal.
After losing the opening game 14-1 in Saskatoon, the Express rolled to a 17-6 win in Game 2 at home before fnishing off the series with a 5-3 win in the deciding contest on Tuesday, Aug. 13.
The wins gave Moose Jaw a twogames-to-one victory in the best-of-three series and saw the Express take on the Okotoks Dawgs in the WCBL Final beginning Thursday in Okotoks (see related story).
Moose Jaw 5, Saskatoon 3
The Express put together an early lead thanks to the bat of Joe Osborn and rode the arm of Westin Walls the rest of the way to take the win in Game 3 of East Division Final on Tuesday night.
The Express got off to another fast start on Tuesday, this time putting up three runs in the second inning to take a crucial early lead.
After Nathan Houston and Ethan Bear hit back-to-back singles to lead off the frame, Osborn took a 3-2 offering from Saskatoon starter Carter Kopp over the outfeld fence for a three-run home run, giving Moose Jaw the early edge.
Saskatoon got two runs back in the
fourth, with Ethan Menard scoring on an error and Jaden Lamothe knocking home Jalen Freeman one batter later to make it a one-run game.
The two teams exchanged runs in the ffth, and it remained a two-run game until the seventh when Houston hit a one-out triple and came around to score on a Bear fy-out one batter later.
While it wasn’t the offensive freworks the Express had put together in their 17-6 win over Saskatoon in Game 2, the fve runs proved to be more than enough
for Walls to get the job done on the mound.
The Terrell, Texas product went coast-to-coast with one of the best pitching performances of the season for the Express, giving up only three runs, two earned, while scattering nine hits, striking out 11 and walking only one for the complete-game win.
Osborn ended up going 2-for-4 with a run and four runs batted in, while Houston was 4-for-4 with two runs scored, boosting his playoffs batting average to .500. Robert Estrada also had a solid game at the plate, going 3-for-5.
Moose Jaw 17, Saskatoon 6
The Express pounded out seven runs in the frst inning against the Berries and never looked back on their way to tying the series at a game apiece.
The Express got things going quickly in the opening inning and would end up sending 12 batters to the plate, scoring their seven runs on fve hits and a pair of errors.
Houston had one of the big hits in the inning, knocking home Nate Mensik and Austin Gurney with a double to make it 3-0, and Thomas Soto plated another two runs on a bases-loaded error that brought Elijah Bear and Ryan Gouldin.
The Express didn’t let up in the second inning, with a two-run home run off the bat of Bear making it a 9-0 game, and
they’d extend the lead to 11-0 when Gouldin hit another two-run round tripper in the fourth.
Saskatoon briefy made things interesting when they put up fve runs on four hits in the ffth, but Moose Jaw got one back in the bottom of the frame and tacked on two more runs in the sixth on a two-run single by Robert Estrada.
There things remained until the eighth, when Mensik hit a three-run home run to close out scoring for the Express on the night.
Mensik capped the game with a rather strange scoreline, going 1-for-2 with four runs scored and three runs batted in, thanks to his three walks on the night. Bear was 2-for-2 with two runs and two RBI, while Gouldin fnished up 2-for-3 with three runs and two RBI. Bobby Pokorney also took advantage of Saskatoon’s 10 walks on the night, going 1-for-3 with three runs scored after drawing a pair of free passes.
All that offence gave Moose Jaw starting pitcher Ethan Merk plenty of room to work with, and he’d pitch four scoreless before giving up the fve runs on nine hits in the ffth. Jacob Quiles fnished off that inning before giving way to Jaden Canelli, who turned in a solid relief showing by scattering fve hits over the next 3 ⅓. Julian Gonzalez fnished things off, giving up the single run in the ninth.
The Moose Jaw Miller Express needed a win at home on Friday night to stay alive in the Western Canadian Baseball League championship fnal.
The Okotoks Dawgs scored six runs in the second inning and held off a Miller Express comeback on their way to taking a 7-4 victory in the best-of-three series Thursday in Okotoks.
The win gave Okotoks a chance to claim the WCBL title on Friday when Game 2 of the best-of-three series took place at Ross Wells Park. The score from that contest was unavailable as of press time.
Jaw’s bullpen after the second, Okotoks’ relievers were even more effective. Aaron Hammer took over in the third inning and gave up fve hits but no runs over 2 ⅓ before Zane Morrison, Gavin Wuschke and Cade Herman combined to limit the Express to a single hit heading into the ninth.
Moose Jaw made things interesting by getting the tying run to the plate in the fnal inning, but Ashton Luera would escape the frame to earn the save.
Through it all, Moose Jaw did have their chances, getting runners in scoring position in all but three innings and cranking out 13 hits on the night.
While it looked at that point that Okotoks might be in for a romp, the Express got right back into the game with four runs of their own the very next inning.
It was a tough start for Moose Jaw, as the Dawgs sent 11 batters to the plate in their big inning, taking advantage of three hits, three walks and an error to take their 6-0 lead. Aidan Rose had the big hit in the frame with a two-run double, with all three of Okotoks hits in the inning going for extra bases.
Austin Gurney knocked home Bobby Pokorney with a base hit to get things started, and one batter later, Nate Menisk would clear the bases with a double, scoring Gurney and Robert Estrada to make it a 6-3 game. Mensik himself then scored on a double by Ryan Gouldin, and all of a sudden Moose Jaw was right back in it.
Mensik capped his night with a 3-for5 showing that included his run and two RBI in the third, while Pokorney was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Gouldin and Nate Houston each added a pair of base hits.
For all the early offence, the rest of the night turned into a pitching duel.
Cameron Dunn took over on the mound for the Express in the second inning and ended up going 4 ⅔, allowing a single run in the seventh inning while scattering three hits, striking out two and walking fve. Matt Vasquez then pitched the fnal 1 ⅔, holding the Dawgs hitless the rest of the way.
As well as things went for Moose
Rose was 2-for-3 with a run and three RBI to lead Okotoks’ offence.
Garrett Maloney started for the Dawgs and gave up four runs on six hits over 2 ⅔ to earn the win.
Takeo Cookson was the losing pitcher, allowing fve runs, three earned, on two hits in the second inning after tossing a scoreless frst. Drew Sorrentino allowed a run while getting two outs in the second before Dunn took over.
Warriors set to open training camp on Aug. 28 as defence of WHL title begins
Rookie camp to take place Aug. 29 and 30, Black and White Intrasquad game set for Sept. 1 at Moose Jaw Events Centre Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Moose Jaw Warriors will be in a bit of a different frame of mind when training camp for the 2024-25 season begins in just under two weeks time.
There had always been a sense of ‘maybe this year’ when it came to winning a Western Hockey League championship, with hopes and dreams of claiming a title always part of the proceedings.
Now, those dreams have been realized, and the Warriors are fnally the ones being chased after winning their frst WHL Championship in their 40-year franchise history last spring.
The Warriors will begin the defence of their title on Wednesday, Aug. 28 when players go through the annual crucible known as ftness testing. The event features a host of tests designed to give team staff an idea of where players are with regards to their strength and aerobic conditioning, with steady improvement from year-to-year always the goal.
On-ice sessions begin on Thursday, Aug. 29 at the Moose Jaw Events Centre, with rookie camp taking centre stage frst. Players will take part in three practices from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. before the frst scrimmage at 11:30 a.m.
Moose
Jaw Ice
Veterans of the 2023-24 WHL champions will return to the ice at 1:15 p.m. for the frst main camp practice.
Rookie camp continues throughout the day Friday, Aug. 30 before the frst scrimmage of main camp takes place at 6:30 p.m., leading into a full day of scrimmages on Saturday, Aug. 31.
in
contention heading into fnal round robin game at Canadians
Wins over Westman and Newfoundland saw Moose Jaw holding 3-2 record with chance to advance to championship round Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
Thanks to a pair of commanding wins heading into their fnal round robin game, the Moose Jaw Ice found themselves in contention for a playoff spot in the championship round at the Softball Canada U15 Canadian Championship.
The Ice rolled to a 9-1 win over the Westman Magic in their late game Thursday before putting up a 9-2 win over the Newfoundland Selects in their early contest Friday.
As a result, Moose Jaw had a 3-2 record and the inside track on fnishing in the top 12, which would send them into the championship round.
Earlier, the Ice won 10-5 over B.C.’s Fraser Valley Fusion and lost 6-0 to host Equipe du Quebec before falling 6-4 to the Brantford Bobcats.
Results from the fnal round robin game and the playoffs were unavailable as of press time.
Training camp will then wrap up on Sunday, Sept. 1 at 12 p.m. with the Black / White Intrasquad Game. Admission is by a donation to the Canadian Mental Health Association.
All on-ice sessions throughout the week are open to the public, and you can check out the complete schedule below.
12 p.m. -- Rookie Camp scrimmage 2 vs. 3 2:30 p.m. -- Rookie Camp scrimmage 3 vs. 1
6:30 p.m. -- Main Camp scrimmage
Saturday, Aug. 31
9 a.m. -- Main camp scrimmage
12:30 p.m. -- Main Camp scrimmage
4 p.m. -- Main Camp scrimmage
Sunday, Sept 1 12 p.m. -- Black / White Intrasquad Game
The Moose Jaw Warriors begin the defence of their Western Hockey League championship on Aug. 28 when training camp opens for the 2024-25 campaign.
The Moose Jaw Ice were in contention for a spot in the championship round heading into their fnal round robin game Friday afternoon.
Ontario woman hires investigative frm to review aunt’s death at Moose Jaw care home
An Ontario woman whose aunt died in Moose Jaw two years ago after allegedly receiving poor health-care treatment still wants justice for her relative and hopes an investigative frm can help.
Natalia da Costa-Cox and her husband, Alan Cox, were in Canada’s Most Notorious City in 2021 from the end of June to mid-July, visiting Alan’s aunt, Jean Shankoff. Shankoff, 81, had been in the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital since early June after falling at home.
Shankoff — who was diagnosed with breast cancer and early dementia — spent a month in the hospital before she was transferred to Marcie Private Care Home at 1301 Princess Street on June 29. She spent two weeks there before she died on July 10.
Da Costa-Cox contacted the Moose Jaw Express in 2022 to express her concerns about the care her aunt received and to raise awareness of the poor care seniors receive.
Meanwhile, she also contacted the Ministry of Health with concerns about Marcie Private Care Home. After investigating the situation, the ministry told the Ontario couple that the investigator was unable to substantiate the complaints, which the report also confrmed.
The ministry also allegedly told her that it couldn’t intervene because the care
home was privately operated.
The couple emailed the care home consultant who wrote the report and refuted the fndings by discussing what they saw. The consultant replied and explained that just because something is unfounded does not mean the issue did not happen. Instead, it means she could not fnd conclusive evidence that the care home was at
fault or guilty.
She also pointed out that this issue is similar to a “he said, she said” situation.
Da Costa-Cox then appealed the consultant’s fndings to the provincial ombudsman, who investigated the matter and responded this past spring. Da Costa provided the Express with a chain of emails involving conversations she had with the assistant ombudsman of investigations.
The assistant ombudsman told da Costa-Cox that the offce was closing her complaint after working with the Ministry of Health’s community care branch to identify areas it thought were lacking in the branch’s investigations.
The ombudsman’s offce presented and explained its best practices for handling complaints and asked the branch to send apologies that recognized the defciencies in the branch’s complaint investigations.
“The apologies received were not satisfactory to any of the complainants and our offce,” the assistant ombudsman said, noting two other families — one at the same care home in Moose Jaw — also came forward with similar concerns.
The ombudsman’s offce contacted the branch’s executive director and expressed concerns that the latter’s email communications with the three complainant families were unsatisfactory and
took a minimalist, unempathetic approach that didn’t use details or language expressing understanding for the families’ experiences.
The assistant ombudsman thanked da Costa-Cox for bringing forward her complaint, noting that the offce could not do its work without individuals speaking up with concerns about the system.
“I know that our intervention may not have completely resolved all of your concerns, but hopefully we have helped some,” the woman added.
Da Costa-Cox told the Express that it has been frustrating to receive the runaround from the ministry and ombudsman’s offce, while she and her husband don’t know who to turn to and believe there is no closure to this issue.
“Innocent, helpful folks will continue to die at the hands of these private care homes that seem to be well protected and are somehow immune to any laws governing them,” she said.
“I feel there’s no justice in this system and I feel there are some serious issues with the hospital system as well … ,” she continued. “Maybe this (situation) will help prevent other families from going through (the same issue) in the future.”
The Ontario couple has hired Veritas Solutions to review the situation further.
RCMP identifes human remains found within RM of Moose Jaw
An offcial update has been provided by the Moose Jaw RCMP that follows up on an earlier investigation launched on April 28 when unidentifed human remains were discovered at an undisclosed location within the RM of Moose Jaw.
The RCMP’s Historical Case Unit — who has been assigned to investigate the case since April — has now learned the identity of the deceased individual.
“As a result of DNA analysis, the deceased individual’s identity was confrmed to be an adult male from Saskatchewan. His family has been notifed by investigators,” the offcial release stated.
There have been no missing persons reports associated with the individual and police have determined that his death is not considered to be suspicious.
Due to these considerations and at the request of the man’s family, who “has asked for privacy during this diffcult time,” the RCMP will not be releasing the man’s name.
The human remains were frst discovered by the private landowner who told police he was conducting repairs on
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
barbed wire fence along his property. This fence ran close to the site where the deceased appears to have been temporarily camping. Following the discovery, the
property owner immediately contacted police.
Initially following the call, the Major Crimes Unit of the RCMP confrmed that
the death was not criminal in nature, and with foul play ruled out, the matter was reassigned to the Historical Case Unit who continued to investigate.
From earlier evidence gathered at the site, results suggested that the remains were 10 to 12 years old and associated articles of clothing were in a state indicative of that timespan.
A ground search of the area conducted by police and investigators located several papers that “were stuck together and unreadable,” and experts with the RCMP’s Forensic Identifcation Services re-hydrated these papers to yield a possible identifcation and name of the individual.
This fnding, supported by results from a DNA analysis confrmed the man’s identity and the investigation has now concluded.
“The RCMP would like to extend a thank-you to our news partners for sharing information about this investigation,” the report stated.
No further details have been provided by law enforcement agencies.
Jean Shankoff at Marcie Private Care Home in 2021. Photo courtesy Natalia da Costa-Cox
It was here that the human remains were frst discovered within the RM of Moose Jaw on April 28. Photo by: Aaron Walker
The Wakamow Rotary Club holds a pancake breakfast every Saturday morning in August at the Kiwanis pavilion near the speed skating oval in Wakamow from 9 a.m, to noon at the same time as the Wakamow Farmer’s Market. Ron Walter Photo.
The views and opinions expressed in this
By
are those of the
A Heretic’s Manifesto: Essays on the Unsayable.
Brendan O’Neill. Spiked, 172 pages
Brendan O’Neill is a widely published journalist who has written for, believe it or not, Catholic Herald as well as Abortion Review. Interestingly enough, in 2019 he declared himself a Marxist libertarian.
Like the late great Christopher Hitchens he enjoys stirring the pot with clearly reasoned opinions and I suspect that many people, especially those in academia, will fnd at least parts of this book heretical.
In ten essays subjects such as trans activism run amok, censorship/freedom of speech, racism, whiteness, pride and “hate” are addressed.
Most of the theories foundational to the above originated in institutions of censorship and indoctrination North American universities, and it is clear that the trees bearing
the fruit of, um, academic scholarship are in dire need of a vigorous shaking. In this O’Neill succeeds admirably. Many of the essays touch on the impact of identity theory: “… the Floyd fallout represented the entrenchment and even globalisation of something very different… identity politics. This forever racialism, this religion that demands ceaseless white atonement for unending black pain, is one of the central planks of today’s culture of intolerance. You question it at your own risk.”
Museum exhibits have been removed to prevent “harm”, for the same reason students of English literature graduate without opening a book on Shakespeare, modern science is “white and racist” as is Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.
O’Neill discusses how treating people according to their supposed group identity has resurrected hateful concepts from the past: racism, class hatred, lists of prohibited speech, forced speech, censorship and, most of all intolerance. He fnds parallels with Orwell’s Newspeak: the phrase “sex assigned at birth” has infltrated language. That is to say, we cannot really know the biological sex of a neonate, and therefore we should not attempt to “assign” one. Biology is bigotry. “… when we are incited to be unsure of our own identities, uncertain even about the meaning of our own births, and always obedient in our thought and speech, we are less free beings than malleable beasts…” It is therefore quite possible to say that a woman can have a penis and expect to be taken seriously.
The most pernicious result of political correctness, we are told, is its effect on our inner life, as well as how it changes language and internalizes “correct thought.” I am reminded of the nurse who is being investigated by the thought police health regulator for supporting JK Rowling.
The Covid pandemic was real and vaccinations were defnitely necessary, but as O’Neill points out, government and bureaucratic overreach eroded much of public trust. Mainstream media enthusiastically cooperated with bureaucracy, see the link at the end. (Full disclosure: I was wholly in favor of masks at the time.)
O’Neill sees a link between overreach on the one hand and censorship by technocrats on the other. “Lockdown has copper-fastened the vision of the individual as a pestilent creature, a plague not only on the Earth, but on other people, too.” Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion come to mind.
A valuable aspect of what may or may not be called Western Civilization is freedom of speech – the right to criticize, to offend and, of course, vice versa.
“Words do wound… Words hurt people, they hurt institutions, they hurt belief systems. Words make churches tremble and ideologies quake. Words infict pain on priests and princes and ideologues. Words upend the social order. Words rip away the comforting ideas people and communities might have wrapped themselves in… Words cause discord, angst, even confict. Isn’t every revolution in history the offspring of words? Of ideas?... “
Two authors are looking for information about former resident Lorne Thomas Pritchard, a Second World War airman who participated in the famous Dambusters Raid and was later shot down and captured in France.
Ten years ago, in the village churchyard of Leulinghem, France, researcher Dr. Trevor Kerry found three graves of airmen who had fown during the war from a base near his home in Lincolnshire, United Kingdom.
These men were from 617 Dambusters Squadron and had been on a bombing mission to drop a 5,400-kilogram (12,000-pound) Tallboy bomb on a V-bomb launch site at Wizernes in northern France.
Buried in Leulinghem were pilot John Edward and gunners Sam Isherwood and Tom Price, while in nearby St. Omer were the graves of fight engineer Bill King and gunner Ian Johnston; three others survived.
memorative event, while he and Kerry agreed to collaborate and write a book about the crew’s story.
“We are now flling in gaps in the research. Bomber Command Museum of Canada has provided information about three Canadians: Price from Moncton (N.B.), Johnston from Englehart (Ont.), and Pritchard,” Kerry told the Express by email. “(However), the records on Lorne Thomas Pritchard are sparse.”
The authors know that Pritchard was from Moose Jaw, enlisted in Calgary, was a nursing orderly, transferred to aircrew training, and became a navigator. He had a distinguished career with the same crew members in 50 Squadron before joining 617 Squadron.
Pritchard’s navigation skills also earned him a Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC), the third-highest military medal that the United Kingdom and Canada issued.
When the aircrew’s Lancaster DV403 bomber crashed in late June 1944, the Germans immediately captured Pritchard and transferred him to prisoner-of-war camp Stalag Luft 1; he returned home in 1945.
According to Pritchard’s after-action report, his crew was fying at 18,000 feet when their bomber was hit in the port wing, causing a fre in the inner port engine.
Pritchard checked on his crewmates, fnding the fight engineer dead and the air bomber slightly wounded.
“After the chute opened, I saw the aircraft spinning below and also saw the port wing buckle and bend upwards,” the Moose Javian recalled. “(I) was picked up by 11 Germans as soon as I landed because they followed me along until I hit the deck.”
The Germans also picked up the bomb aimer, who had landed in St. Omer, while they captured the bombardier, who had a broken right leg, right arm and left hand and burns to his face. The bombardier had no information about the other crewmen except that he thought the pilot’s seat had been empty when he jumped.
The Germans later told Pritchard that they had found Edward’s identity tag in the wreckage.
“From (after his return) we have no record of him except a small reference saying he died in 1966,” said Kerry. “We
would like to fll in the gap (years of) 1945-66 (including) where he lived, his job, photographs of him, anything to bring his story to life.”
The authors have attempted to contact the crew’s families and gather information from people who knew the crew members. They want to hear from anyone else in Moose Jaw who can tell them about Pritchard’s life after he returned home from the war. They will give credit for the information they receive.
Anyone with information can email Kerry at tk.consultancy@ntlworld.com.
Trevor Kerry is an English educationist who was branch secretary of the Royal Aeronautical Society RAF Cranwell, while Gaetan Sago is a French historian. They are writing for Pen and Sword Books.
In
Pilot Edward attempted to keep the plane fying but eventually ordered everyone to evacuate; the bomb aimer and Pritchard cleared the plane safely.
The crash in northern France occurred on June 24, 1944, 18 days after Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy during D-Day.
Leulinghem, historian Gaetan Sagot developed an 80th-anniversary com-
Leon Retief
Leon Retief is a retired physician with clinical and research experience. He likes drinking wine, listening to music and reading.
article
author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
Book Image: Amazon.ca
Moose Javian Lorne Thomas Pritchard (standing behind bride) attends a friend’s wedding during the Second World War. Photo submitted
Can you fnd the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
Seeking Born Again Christian Business partner with potential ownership in Second Hand and Flea- Market business. Male, female or family must be interested in Salvation, Healing and Deliverance Outreach Ministry . Serious enquiries only please. 306-684-1084, 5 pm- 8pm ONLY (because of scam calls)
Wanted to buy, Volkswagen Beetle, air cooled rear engine. Please call 306-526-0016.
SERVICES
Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268
Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, fnishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofng/ siding- no job too big or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. Cleaner with 20 years experience, professional and bondable, please call Rebecca at 306-9900348
AUTOS
1994 Crown Victoria, 216,000 miles, 4 door, bench seats, power windows and steering. NEW: fuel pump/flter, spark plugs, all-season tires with balance and wheel alignment, inner
Every four years in Saskatchewan, all municipalities are required by the provincial government to hold an election to determine who will hold civil administration positions and Moose Jaw’s next election is coming up this November.
The upcoming municipal election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13, and will determine who holds the positions of mayor and the city’s six councillors for the next four-year term.
The upcoming election will also include a vote to elect school board trustees for both the Prairie South School Division and the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division in Moose Jaw.
Polling stations
There will be four regular polling stations that will run from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Nov. 13.
Poll 1: Moose Jaw Golden Nugget Centre located at 250 Thatcher Drive East
Poll 2: Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast
Poll 3: Minto United Church located at 1036 Seventh Avenue Northwest
Poll 4: Church of Our Lady located at 566 Vaughan Street
As well, an online voter registration form will be available starting Monday, Oct. 21 at MooseJaw.ca/Election.
Hiring election workers
Residents interested in applying as a municipal election workers can do so now with an application deadline of Wednesday, Sept. 11.
Open positions include poll clerks, deputy returning offcers, and supervisors. The job requirements include basic literacy and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to perform repetitive tasks.
Past election experience is an asset but is not required for the position and training will be provided. For more information visit MooseJaw.ca/Election.
Free transit options
On the day of the election, the City of Moose Jaw will provide free transit for residents requiring access to any of the four polling stations.
If you require the use of the city’s para transit service, all residents are required to book in advance and reservations must be made before 4:30 p.m. on
and outer tie rod ends, windshield, wipers, wiper motor, heater, blower, and resistor. Asking $4000, please call 306-631-5206
HOUSEHOLD
Meat chopper, good condition $50. King Size foam clean and good condition $35. White mirror 29” by 19” $30. Call 306-692-5091
MISCELLANEOUS
For Sale, Sunset Cemetery Last Supper Cremation Plot #212, Asking $1600.00 Call 306693-2003
LOST & FOUND
Senior has lost remote start and my only mailbox key on Saturday, June 29th. Could be at Co-op, Superstore, Peavey Mart, Wal-Mart, either in the stores or the parking lot. First digit of mailbox key is 8. Phone 306-526-0016.
AUTO PARTS
Four tires for sale. 245 x 75 R 16”. $175. Please call, 306-630-5281.
RV’S & TRAILERS
TRAVEL TRAILER FOR SALE - 40 ft. Jayco Eagle, 3 slides, freplace, washer/dryer, air conditioning, queen bed, premium condition. 306631-8356
Wednesday, Nov. 6. The number to call is 306-694-4488.
For more information about city transit, visit MooseJaw.ca/Streets-Roads/Transit.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Who is eligible to vote?
A: To vote, you must meet the following requirements: Be a Canadian Citizen on the day of the election (Nov. 13, 2024)
Be 18 years of age or older on Nov. 13
Be a Moose Jaw resident or own assessable land within city limits for at least three consecutive months immediately preceding the election day
Be a Saskatchewan resident for at least six consecutive months immediately preceding the election day
To vote for the public school board, you must have resided in the school division or on land it now includes for at least three consecutive months before election day
To vote for the separate school board, you must have resided in the school division or on land it now includes for at least three consecutive months before election day and be of the Roman Catholic faith
Q: How do I vote if I’m homebound?
A: Qualifed voters who are homebound may apply now to have election offcials attend their home to vote on Saturday, Nov. 2, in the following circumstances:
The voter is unable to attend an established polling place because of a disability or limited mobility
The voter is a resident caregiver of a voter who is unable to attend because of their duties
Q: What identifcation do I need to bring?
A: All qualifed voters are required to bring one of two forms of identifcation:
One government-issued identifcation containing a photograph of the elector and their name and address.
One example is your Saskatchewan driver’s license. Two pieces of identifcation that both show the name of the elector; at least one of these must also establish their address
For a detailed list of accepted identifcation visit MooseJaw.ca/Election.
Important dates
Election day: Wednesday, Nov. 13, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Call for nominations for the general election: Monday,
Sept. 16
Nomination day deadline: Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 4 p.m.
Candidate withdrawal deadline: Thursday, Oct. 10, at 4 p.m.
Advance polls: all advanced voting polls will be held at the Golden Nugget Centre, located at 250 Thatcher Drive East.
Tuesday, Oct. 29: noon to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 30: noon to 6 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 2: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 4: noon to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov. 5: noon to 6 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 7: noon to 6 p.m.
Mail-in ballot application deadlines: the deadline for mail applications is Tuesday, Oct. 29 and the deadline for applications made in person is Tuesday, Nov. 12 at 3:45 p.m.
All ballots must be received by the returning offcer at city hall by Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 8 p.m.
Homebound (formerly Mobile Poll) voting application deadline: Thursday, Oct. 29, at 4 p.m.
Declaration of offcial election results: the winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 15, at 11 a.m.
For more information and to access voting forms visit MooseJaw.ca/Election.
If you still have a question that hasn’t been addressed, the election offce can be reached by phone at 306-694-4426 or by email at Elections@MooseJaw.ca
Obituaries / Memorials
DUTCHAK
Elsie Dutchak (née: Scholpp) passed away on Saturday, May 25th, 2024. A Memorial Tea will be held on Saturday, August 24th, 2024 from 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. in the Harvey Room at Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.
Michelle Ellis, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www. moosejawfuneralhome.com
David Antonenko 1947 – 2024
David Paul Antonenko was born on March 20, 1946, in Verwood, Saskatchewan to Paul and Dora (nee Gaftonyk) Antonenko and passed away suddenly on January 13, 2024 at the age of 76 in Weyburn, Saskatchewan.
A celebration of David’s life will be held on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 1:30 – 4:00 p.m. at the Eagles Club (small hall), 561 Home Street W., Moose Jaw, Sask.
Hall Funeral Services in Estevan is caring for David’s family – Dustin Hall, Funeral Director.
In Loving Memory of Drago Petrovic
December 9, 1953 - August 26, 2015
Nine years have passed since that sad day...We will always remember you as a selfless and loving person, devoted husband and family man and exemplary father.
“You always had a smile to share, time to give and time to care... A loving nature, kind and true is the way we’ll remember you”.
Forever missed, Forever loved, Forever in our hearts Aida and family
TRINITY UNITED CHURCH
Henry Lyte’s (1793-187) famous hymn Abide with Me. “Abide with me, fast falls the eventide. . . . In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.” In fact, in the six verses of the hymn, the word abide occurs 8 times. In the lyrics the word abide refers to bear patiently, to wait for, to accept, to remain stable, to continue in place, or to sojourn.
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 necessarily refect the position of this publication.
Abide
We are in the process of replacing the fence in our backyard. It is a project we think we can do ourselves. Since the 3 foot metal poles are frmly implanted in the ground with cement, we are keeping them in place and building new sections with pressure treated 2x4s. Patti had some defnite ideas about the design of the sections and a colour to repaint the metal poles. I decided to abide by her assessment. Probably a wise thing to do in any case.
In this use of the word, abide means to accept without objection. Since its frst known usage in the English language in the 11th century, abide has had several meanings, some of which are no longer in use. One of the former meanings was to stop. The band of ruffans proposed to abide him in the feld on his way home later that night. I was so intent on my quest that I would not abide, no matter what the consequences.
In the 12th century abide was used to indicate waiting for someone or something. The Wessex Gospels recorded, “Eart þu þe to cumenne eart oððe we oþres sceolon abidan.” (Matthew 11:3) The King James Version (1611) has, “Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?” English Poet Laureate Lord Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892) penned in Geraint And Enid, “And Enid pondered in her heart and said, ‘I will abide the coming of my lord, And I will tell him all their villainy.”
Abide can also mean to continue in a place or sojourn. The traditional Gospel Reading for Christmas is from St. Luke chapter 2, “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the feld, keeping watch over their fock by night.” (Luke 2:8) “Lord, Who shall abide in thy tabernacle? Who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1)
A number of the meanings of abide are refected in
The expression ‘abide by’ implies to accept and be guided by something. I will abide by your decision in the matter. It can also imply conforming, as in abiding by the rules. I will abide by the rules of golf, no matter where the ball may lie.
Abiding can be used in the sense of continuing for a long time. My high school friend and I have an abiding friendship. Abiding can also imply not changing. I have an abiding love for my wife and family.
You may hear the phrase ‘can’t abide.’ She could not abide such bigots as would divide people based on race. He can’t abide anyone paying for his meal, no matter the circumstances. In these cases, abide implies tolerance or acceptance.
Abidance means the act or process of doing what you have been asked or ordered to do. The babysitter presumed there would be abidance when the time for bed was announced.
Abide can mean to endure with yielding. The general urged the frontlines to abide the onrush of the enemy.
When it comes to spousal decisions, abide can mean acquiesce. Even though I may disagree with my wife, it is for my beneft to abide by her decisions in various things.
In the Bible Jesus calls upon his followers to ‘abide in him’ (John 15:4-7) In the movie The Big Lebowski, Jeffrey Lebowski (The Dude) proclaims that ‘The Dude abides.’ The movie and the Bible have done much to keep abide in general usage and move people to check the dictionary to discern what the sayings might imply. Abide in both these cases suggests remaining stable and fxed in a state. There is a notion of constancy involved.
Abide also suggests acceptance without resistance or protest. She will abide by the decision of the court.
Patti and I have a love that abides through nearly 40 years of marriage. For this I am extremely grateful.
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 wordwisdom2021@gmail.com . Words will be selected according to relevance and research criteria. We cannot confrm that all words will be used.
July was a bone dry month around here
Heavy spring rains developed awesome crop stands but low or no rainfall in the critical month of July has cut crop yields.
The question is just how dry was July?
It was dry, real dry.
Rainfall records for 15 rural municipalities within the Moose Jaw trading area from Saskatchewan Agriculture show how dry the weather turned.
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
In the three week period from July 16 to August 5, seven of those RMs received no rain at all, except for an odd isolated shower.
RMs not getting any rain in that period were Sarnia at Central Butte, Redburn at Rouleau, Huron at Tugaske, Marquis, Terrell at Spring Valley and Wood River at Lafeche.
Several RMs received nice rains in the two weeks from June 25 to July 9
Wood River had 86 millimetres (over three inches) with 61mm (two inches) at Sarnia, 35 mm at Caron (1.5 inches) , 51 mm at Elmsthorpe, Avonlea ( two inches) and 29 mm at Moose Jaw (1.2 inches).
Given all the rain before the three week dry spell, crops had shallow roots and were unable to beneft from deeper water reserves, if they existed.
Nine of the 15 RMs have had more than 200 mm (eight inches) rain since April 1 — Elmsthorpe, Stonehenge at Assiniboia, Lake Johnstone at Mossbank, Dufferin at Bethune, Marquis, Caron, Eyebrow, Terrell, and Sarnia, Least rainfall since April 1 was 141 mm (5.5 inches) at Redburn.
Moose Jaw RM had 195 mm, close to eight inches. Moose Jaw averages 236 mm (9.3 inches) rain in a year.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
I would be honoured to assist and support you in creating a Pre-Plan for your end of
wishes.
Clouds but no rain. Ron Walter photo
Upcoming Events in Moose Jaw
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@ moosejawexpress.com
APPLE PIE DAY in Mossbank will be held on Wednesday, August 21st from 1-4pm at the Mossbank Community Hall. Free will ofering will be taken.
The Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow pancake breakfast fundraiser throughout the month of August during Wakamow Valley Farmer’s Market from 9am-12noon at the Kiwanis River Park Pavilion & Lodge on Saturdays. Breakfast includes homemade pancakes with real maple syrup, bacon, and cofee or juice. Cost $10 adults/$5 for children ages 10 and under. Upcoming breakfasts: Saturdays – Aug. 24/ Aug. 31.
Emmanuel Lutheran Church:15 Paul Drive (just of 9th Ave North)
Community Garage Sale on Saturday, August 24 from 9AM – 3PM. Inside, air-conditioned space, wheelchair accessible. Hotdog & Drink Lunch- $5 (all food sales to Moose Jase Food Bank); Kids Activitie;Table Rental - $10. Call 306-692-9078 or visit elcmj.ca/ sale to book your table.
Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan: Moose Jaw Branch: Superannuated Teachers (STS) Moose Jaw, our newsletters go to your email account twice a month. Check your junk folder if you are not receiving them. Or go to our website STSmoosejaw.com, click About then Newsletter, and add your current email.
Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan: Moose Jaw Branch: HELL with the BELL Breakfast at the MJ Wildlife Federation. New and Old STS members are invited to celebrate the start of the school year on Tuesday, September 3 at 9AM Program: Introduction and Welcome to new members. Eating and Visiting. Cost: $5pp (Newly Superannuated Teachers and partners are free) UPCOMING EVENTS: Mark your calendars!
2. LUNCHEON Meetings: All Meetings are at Masonic Hall, Main Street @ 10:30 AM Wed. Sept 18, 2024/Wed. Nov 20, 2024/ Wed. Jan 15, 2025/Wed. March 19, 2025/Wed. May 21, 2025
United Nations International Day of Older Persons: Theme “OUR PLACE” Recognizing the People and Places Important to Us Older Persons Symposium will be held on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 @ T. Eaton Center. Check website and newsletter for more information or Rosalie Marcil at 306.691.0696 or email stsmoosejaw@ gmail.com
The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild starting Wednesday, Sept. 4thrd Wednesday held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 7 pm at St Andrews Church from September until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects.
Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling - The sport for ages 6-106. Often referred to as curling on grass. Regular scheduled play on Mon thru Thurs @ 6:30 pm. On Extremely hot days the time will be later. Tuesday and Thursday @9:30am (The Cofee League). Other days and times can be scheduled. Website is moosejawlawnbowling.com; Text 306-690-8739 for more info.
Moose Jaw Camera Club Meeting on Monday, September 9 at 7pm at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre Everyone is welcome to come and see what the club is about. Meeting details will be announced shortly. Meanwhile, photographic work of club members may be viewed at Carol’s Catering & Cafe Moose Jaw Camera Club Gallery at 820 N Service Road. “Be Focused With Us!” For more club information: Rachel 306-693-0159 or Betty 306-371-5220.
New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw “The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@hotmail.com
Scottish Country Dance Classes for all ages on Thursdays at 7pm at 510 Main St. N (T. Eaton Bldg). No partner required. Call Val @306.630.5790. Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month basis to take place on the third Friday of each month.
Church of Our Lady Bingo takes 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.
Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be ofering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email frmfoundationministries.inc@gmail. com Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well:-Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/ Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord.
Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends afected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.
Toastmasters is an internationally recognized education program providing experiential communication and leadership training. For better listening, thinking & speaking skills Toastmasters myriad of programs can be utilized to facilitate your goals. Moose Jaw has 2 clubs.
Summer programing will be: BIG COUNTRY club will meet in person Aug. 28; zoom meeting Aug 14. TAP club meets each Tuesday @7pm on Zoom. Contact 306-630-7015 or email lorna.e.arnold@gmail.com for more info
TOPS (Take of Pounds Sensibly) weight loss support group meets every Wednesday evening at the Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. (Corner of Thatcher Drive W. & 9th Ave.W.) Please enter through the west-facing door, turn right and go to end of the hallway by the library, to room 105. Weigh-in takes place from 6:30-7:00 pm. Meeting to follow. TOPS can help you reach your weight loss goal by providing you with tools, information and support to be successful. The group shares friendship, weight loss tips and ofers encouragement to one another. New members are very welcome. Scale weighs up to 500 lbs.
Wednesday Night Ladies Business League (9 Hole) at Lynbrook Golf Course at (306) 692-2838 for more information or if interested in joining. Hours of play have to cross over within time frame of 4-6pm. Registration fee: $25.00 (cash or cheque) to be paid at Pro Shop; Sign-up sheet on bulletin board by Ladies bathroom.
Aug 14 – Fun Night Tournament- 5:30 pm - Shotgun (sign up sheet will be posted prior week)
Sept 11 – Year End Tournament –5:00pm - Shotgun (sign up sheet will be posted prior week)
Sept 18 – Year End Banquet (cocktails 6:00 pm- supper 6:30 pm)
Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787. Visit their website at https://www. moosejawlibrary.ca or visit ASK@ MOOSEJAWLIBRARY.CA
Some library programs require registration by calling 306-692-8210 or emailing nsetter@moosejawlibrary.ca
MJPL BOOK CLUB Tuesday, July 30/ Time: 7:00 pm/Location: South Meeting Room/Ages: Adults Drop-in program/
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
ADULT PROGRAMMING:
TECH TIME Available by appointment/ Time: Open hours/Location: Main Library/Ages: Adults By appointment only - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.
HOOPLA BOOK CLUB until August 31/ Check out hoopla’s spotlight title for August Grey Dog by Elliott Gish. This title is available in eBook and audiobook formats.
DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH ON KANOPY. Kanopy has curated a collection of thoughtful documentaries and narrative flms featuring those living with disabilities. You can access the collection for free with your Library card.
SUMMER READING CLUB FOR ADULTS 18 AND UP Read books… Audiobooks count too! Earn ballots towards weekly $10 gift card prizes for every book read (maximum 1 book/ballot per day). Earn an additional ballot for the weekly draw by completing a brief book review for our wall! Each ballot will also earn participants a chance to win the grand prize draw (valued at approx. $150). You can pick up your book review forms at the Library or download and print at home.
TEEN PROGRAMMING:
TEEN D&D: CAMP GOODBERRY Tue/ Thu in August/Time: 6:30 pm/Location: MJPL Archives/Ages: 12 to 16/Registration required
DIGITAL D&D Fridays/Time: 4:00 to 6:00 pm/Location: MJPL Youth/Discord Channel/Ages: 16 to 25. Registration required/Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire.
SUMMER READING CLUB FOR YOUTH AGES 12-19. Pick up your Summer Reading Club brochure at the Circulation desk in the Library. Participate in challenges, track your reading, attend Teen programs at the Library, and more. Receive scratch tickets for your participation and win prizes!
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING :
BABY STORYTIME! Tues, until Aug 27/ Time: 10:30 am/Location: Children’s rogram Room/Ages: 0 to 2 and their caring adults! Drop-in Program STORYTIME IN THE PARK! Weds until Aug 28/Time: 10:30 am/Location: Children’s Program Room/Ages: 2 to 5 and their caring adults! Drop-in Program SUMMER READING CLUB FOR CHILDREN 0-12. Visit the Library to register at the Circulation desk. Use your clock bookmarks to track the number of minutes you spend reading or listening to stories over the summer! You can pick up your instructions and bookmarks at the Library or download them and print at home from the website. You can pick up your brochure and reading logs at the Library or download the brochure and print it at home.
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
MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACESaturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Legion Money Rafe Draw – Final Draw Dec 21 @1:30pm 3 Early Bird Draws Oct 5 @1:30pm for $1000each. 200 tickets available @$20each. 19+ to purchase tickets. Total retail prize $23,000. Tickets available at Legion. Call ofce at 306.692.5453 or 306.693.9688 to pay Visa or Mastercard.
Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca The centre is now open Mon-Thurs 8am – 8pm.
Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open M-T and Friday’s 8am-8pm/ Lounge – Friday’s from 8am-4pm. Wood working area – Mon- Fri 8am
– 4pm/Timothy Eaton Cafe open MonFri, 8am – 4pm. Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cinnamon Buns on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed.
Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.; Whist – Tuesday @ 1pm; Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.; Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm; 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m.; Spades –Tuesday and Fridays 1pm Full Body work out – Monday’s 10am & Wednesday 9:30am 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. Floor Shufeboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.
Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.
Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.; New to the Centre is BINGO every Monday at 1:30pm
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 Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm
Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net Check them out on Facebook. Monday: 9:30am-Pickleball/1pm-Floor Shufeboard/7pm-Camera Club – only on the 2nd Monday of the month Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pmBeginners Only Pickleball
Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net
Every Wednesday – open 12-6 pm: Smear
Every Thursday – open 12-7 pm: Regular Crib (ends June 13th) and Smear Every Friday – open 1-10 pm, 7 pm: Darts and Pool Every Saturday – open 1-7 pm: Meat Draw starts at 4:30 pm. 10 meat draws, 4 free draws, gift card and 50/50. Everyone welcome.
ANAVETS DANCE on August 23 at 8pm until closing. Put your dancing shoes on for Brandon + Company playing. No cover charge.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395
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 FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm
Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm. ca
Frustrated with the reported lack of action on behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan following an earlier request to have a local senior’s and low-income housing unit sprayed for cockroaches last November, a group of High Park Towers residents have decided to reach out for answers.
Their voices were heard by Carla Beck, the leader of the Saskatchewan NDP and offcial opposition to the ruling Sask. Party government, who — along with two Moose Jaw NDP representatives — visited the High Park Towers on the morning of Aug. 14.
“We’re joined behind us here by some seniors who live in High Park Towers here in Moose Jaw,” Beck announced. She was joined by Melissa Patterson, the Sask. NDP candidate for Moose Jaw Wakamow and Cheantelle Fisher, the NDP nominee for Moose Jaw North.
“These towers, of course, are owned, they’re operated, (and) they’re overseen by the Government of Saskatchewan.”
Beck described the plight of these same residents who traveled to the Saskatchewan Legislature building in Regina to initially report the infestation issue last
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
November. Since then, she said, the cockroach issue has gotten worse.
“It’s so bad in the building behind us that public spaces have been taken over by cockroaches… and in many private apartments, seniors told us they can no longer store food or enjoy a meal without fear of cockroaches being in their meal,” she said.
“These are conditions that are simply unacceptable, especially for seniors,” she then added.
One High Park Towers resident, Patrick Overs, said he’s been living in the building for seven months after moving there from another cockroach infested apartment in Moose Jaw which he was hoping to
fnally put behind him.
“I know we’re low income… but we still pay our rent, and the rent money is supposed to be going into pest control,” he said. The rental agreement, he explained, clearly includes a clause where renters must agree to allow any pest control measures to take place — and is something they would have all agreed to.
Current pest control measures, Overs and his fellow tenants explained, appears to be focused on band-aid fxes rather than a comprehensive solution. Instead of doing a comprehensive top-to-bottom spray of the entire building, management follows a “zigzagging” strategy that addresses only one location at a time. Later that day, for instance, the plan was to spray only the front entranceway near recycling bins and a limited run to the back entrance.
Many of these calls, Overs said, rely on tenants checking traps and reporting any bugs they fnd.
“You have elderly people that live here, and they can’t get on their hands and knees to check the traps. How are they supposed to check their traps?
“Get the situation dealt with. That’s all were asking,” Overs said. “We’re not asking you guys to give us the moon. We just want… a safe, pest free area to live.”
Until the situation has been resolved, residents claim to feel trapped in deplorable living conditions with no option but
‘We feel trapped’: High Park Towers residents frustrated with ongoing cockroach infestation
to ride it out.
“As my friend Brent (Patterson) was saying to the cameras… most places won’t take you if they know you have (cockroaches),” Overs said. “You have to be clean of cockroaches for six months before they will even think about taking you so, even if you had an alternative, you’re stuck here for six months.
“If you’re low income, you’re trapped. You have no alternative,” he added. “It’s extremely frustrating.”
Brent Patterson, a senior resident of the High Park Towers who has had cockroaches in his suite since last November, also shares this feeling of frustration. He claims to see around 10 cockroaches on average each day and said he constantly feels exhausted and tired.
“I have four kids and 13 grandchildren,” he said. “My kids don’t come and visit, nor do my grandkids… That’s my home, but yet (I was told to) have my grandkids meet me somewhere else… That plays hell on a person.
“I don’t know what else to do except for sit and wait for these two guys to come and spray my place,” Patterson said.
The Moose Jaw Express has reached out to the offce of Moose Jaw North MLA Tim McLeod, the minster for mental health and addictions, seniors and rural and remote health for comments on behalf of the Saskatchewan Party. Due to a medical leave, McLeod was unavailable for comments on short notice but if possible will be included in the next edition of the Moose Jaw Express if a response is received.
Residents of High Park Towers met with Sask. NDP representatives recently after reaching out for answers. Photo by: Aaron Walker
The cockroach infestation has been ongoing since at least November 2023, High Park Towers residents claim. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Brent Patterson (pictured) said he’s been living with cockroaches since last November and his family no longer visits him because of the ongoing infestation. Photo by: Aaron Walker
