In the spirit of omotenashi — Japan’s renowned display of hospitality — and to bridge the cultural gap between east and west through an exciting student program, 19 Japanese elementary-level student ambassadors toured Moose Jaw from July 25 to Aug. 2.
“Every year we bring back some of our students from Spike & Ai International out of Yokohama, Japan,” explained Arron Dobrescu, the school’s founder and CEO — and former Moose Javian.
These students get the opportunity to visit Canada for one week and range from nine to 15 years of age with anywhere between 15 to 25 students participating.
“The focus is… (letting) these kids experience a different culture and a different way of living,” Dobrescu said.
Dobrescu was born in Moose Jaw and has been living in Yokohama, Japan for the past 22 years.
“I’m a teacher by trade,” he said. “Just before I started teaching, I wanted to see… the world and I moved to Japan and I started teaching there. About two years later, my wife and I started up a school.”
The school, Spike & Ai International, has been running for 17 years and has grown to around 750 students with around 12 teachers.
When the students frst arrived in Canada they did a layover in Vancouver, which is still reminiscent of home as it’s situated next to the Pacifc Ocean. This sense of familiarity changed when they passed over the Rocky Mountains and entered the vast landscape of the Canadian Prairies.
“They’re like, ‘There are no houses here!’” Dobrescu recalled. “They just can’t fathom the size of Canada, like the landmass is just amazing. You could pick up the whole country of Japan and just put it right in Saskatchewan…
“They think Moose Jaw is just so big, because everything is so spread out,” he continued. “Our roads are really wide… everything’s just so big right down to the food…”
To locals, the Prairie landscape doesn’t seem out of place but for the Japanese students, on the other hand, it’s an astonishing contrast. Yokohama has a population of
around four million (as of 2015), and nearby Tokyo has around 14 million residents (as of 2021).
“So, if you think about it, they’re looking at 25 million people (in the region) and not much green,” Dobrescu said.
After a 26-hour fight, the students met their host families for an introductory icebreaker and created souvenir scrapbooks.
The students began their visit with a walk through Crescent Park and then played their frst-ever hockey game at A.E. Peacock Collegiate.
“They’ve never seen a hockey stick and they don’t understand the game,” he said. “They love it. It was a good time.”
Culinary differences include something as unsuspecting as a bagged lunch. In Japan, the closest approximation is a Bento box, which traditionally comes decorated with peeled and sliced apples, cooked vegetables, and rice. Here, the students were amazed to fnd a raw, unpeeled apple, raw vegetables and dip, yogurt, and a sandwich in a brown paper bag.
At least one student was hesitant to try venison, but Dobrescu explained that it’s no different than horse meat (Basashi) which is a culinary option in Japan.
“(Canadian meals are) totally different in style, but there’s no complaints; they love it all.”
On July 29, the group visited the Western Development Museum. Dobrescu called them around his table after lunch where they were astonished to hear their voices come across the radio — the result of an earlier visit to a local radio station.
They later toured the Babich farm where they experienced industrial agriculture on a scale they’ve never witnessed before, and got to take some of the equipment for a quick ride.
Dobrescu included a tour of where he grew up, which is a completely different experience he said the students loved to learn about.
“I showed them my elementary school and say, ‘See? I played on that playground,’” he said.
On the fnal day, everyone sat down for a fnal sayonara (goodbye) party.
“The kids get to show their tea ceremony, some origami, and different kinds of Japanese cultural things they do and share that with their host families,” Dobrescu explained.
The program is made possible thanks to support from Tana Arnott, Peacock’s principal, and the host families who welcome one or two students into their lives each summer.
For more information about Dobrescu’s school, visit SpikeAndAi.com.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
TUES:
Soldier cycling 1,100 kms across Prairies to support veterans’ mental health program
Sgt. Rob Nederlof has cycled over 3,000 kilometres across the Prairies during the past four years to support a mental health-related veterans’ program, and this year, he will be riding through Moose Jaw.
Nederlof is a mechanic with the Canadian Armed Forces and is based at Shilo, Man. He and his wife, Marina, will launch his fourth annual “Prairie Thousand” tour from Edmonton on Sunday, Aug. 11, and ride south through Calgary before journeying into Saskatchewan.
He will arrive in Tompkins, Sask., on Friday, Aug. 16, and then cycle to Morse the next day, followed by Moose Jaw on Sunday, Aug. 18. He fnishes in Regina the next day.
This year’s endeavour — nicknamed the “Wild Roses and Living Skies Tour” to honour both provinces’ natural beauty — will see Nederlof cycle more than 1,100 kilometres, similar to the other three tours he has undertaken since 2021. His goal is to highlight mental health issues that affect veterans and EMS personnel by fundraising for the Wounded Warriors Canada’s PTSD support dog program.
Over the past three years, the soldier has raised $91,243.42 for the program. His goal this year is
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
$8,756.58, which would bring the offcial total to $100,000 — although he would not be too disappointed to raise more than that.
His original fundraising goal when he started three years was $22,000.
Nederlof told the Moose Jaw Express that he is looking forward to this year’s trip “quite a bit,” while he is excited to meet people who are also enthusiastic about the cause. Furthermore, the trip allows him to take a break from work and shut off his mind from his everyday worries.
The 25-year soldier explained that he enjoys cycling, and one day while he was on a long ride, someone asked if he was fundraising for a cause. He initially said no but later realized he could do that.
So, he and his wife brainstormed ideas and decided to support Wound Warriors’ support dog program. The
Japanese student Mahiro
Ebina celebrates her 17th birthday in Moose Jaw
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
During an international tour of Moose Jaw and the Canadian Prairies this week, one Japanese student partaking in the Spike & Ai International student program celebrated her birthday in Canada — an experience that provided a unique frsthand opportunity to experience the cultural differences that defne two separate continents.
Mahiro Ebina, who is touring from Yokohama, Japan, celebrated her 17th birthday in Moose Jaw on July 29. Here, birthday celebrations often involve cake, presents, and a party including friends, family, and classmates. The party takes place at a festively decorated venue with balloons, streamers, and birthday-themed cutlery.
In Japan, by contrast, birthdays are celebrated with far less fanfare. These celebrations typically involve a small gathering of family and a modest birthday cake. It’s not uncommon to receive a small, bite-sized Mochi cake, made with sweet rice and stuffed with red bean paste or a similar fller rather than a large, decorated cake as in Canada.
“On the day of the birthday, (the Japanese) will have some cake and just the mother, father, and the brothers and sisters (will attend),” explained Arron Dobrescu, the owner of Spike & Ai International.
During her week-long stay in Moose Jaw, Ebina experienced her frst traditional Canadian birthday party that was facilitated by her host family, Jordan and Jennifer Costa.
“Her host family is going to have a birthday party ready for her, and it’s so special for her to have that,” Dobrescu said. “We’ll (also) sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to her a little bit later.”
organization is a mental health service provider that offers programs to help veterans and frst responders — and their families — dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“It’s a cause that’s near and dear to our hearts, and we will keep saying that,” Nederlof said.
The cycling tour has been important to Nederlof, who noted that it has its ups and downs depending on the weather and temperature.
“But mostly I enjoy cycling, so I suck it up and do it,” he chuckled. “A thousand kilometres now seems easy because I’ve done it three years in a row.”
The serving soldier has PTSD after serving three tours overseas in Bosnia and Afghanistan, while he also knows people with the disorder who require support.
He pointed out that it is expensive to acquire a service dog, but having a constant canine companion that knows its owner’s health challenges makes it easier to go through life and function normally — something a friend with a service dog confrmed.
It costs $15,000 to $20,000 to train one service dog, so Nederlof’s fundraising goal of $100,000 could support the development of fve to six animals.
Nederlof thought it was “mind-blowing” and “a blessing in disguise” that he had raised $70,000 more than he had expected over the past three years.
The army mechanic’s PTSD has affected him signifcantly over the years, but cycling has helped him focus on supporting others. He has not thought of acquiring a service dog, pointing out he would need a strong reason to purchase one because of the costs.
“I’m happy that I don’t need one,” he added.
To support Nederlof’s 2024 Prairie Thousand cycling tour, email prairiethousand@gmail.com, visit prairiethousand.com, or see his Facebook page.
“She’ll get a pretty memorable birthday party tonight,” Dobrescu said earlier on July 29.
The student program, Spike & Ai International, is organized by former Moose Jaw resident Dobrescu and Tana Arnott, the principal of A.E. Peacock Collegiate. Spike & Ai aims to provide students with a broader understanding of the world through frst-hand experiences that include a yearly one-week visit to Moose Jaw.
To learn more about Spike & Ai International, visit SpikeAndAi.com.
Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu, Mahiro Ebina!
First responders join Rob Nederlof (second from right) in Winnipeg during a previous tour. Photo courtesy Facebook
Sgt. Rob Nederlof (left) and his brother in Edmonton at the start of the 2022 tour. Photo courtesy Facebook
Yuika Mikami (left) celebrates with Mahiro Ebina (right), who turned 17 on July 29 while visiting Moose Jaw from her home in Yokohama, Japan. Photo by: Jordan and Jennifer Costa
The weather never stays the same.
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Meet Sesan and Jomi, the brothers behind Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic
Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic was founded by two brothers who were originally from Nigeria. Their journey, which led them to the Civic Centre Plaza in Moose Jaw, speaks to their perseverance, dedication, and shares a love for their new home on the Prairies.
The Civic Centre Dental Clinic celebrated its grand opening on July 27 and is coowned by Dr. Sesan Banjo and his brother, Dr. Jomi Banjo.
“I’m originally from Nigeria, and I moved to Canada in 2016 with my family,” Sesan explained. “I call myself a Moose Javian now.”
Sesan had been a practicing dentist back in Nigeria for six years before moving to Canada, so the decision to continue his career path and pursue Canadian accreditation in the feld came naturally.
Regardless of an individual’s education, licensing, or experience, non-Canadian general practitioners must obtain a Canadian license and registration to practice dentistry in Canada. To obtain this license, individuals must complete an accredited dental program as accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
“I moved to Canada about 11 years ago, and I initially moved to Saskatchewan,” said Jomi, who is the younger of the two brothers. “That was when I fell in love with Saskatchewan.”
Both Sesan and Jomi completed their master’s degree in public health at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, where they continued to live for three years and
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
worked for one further year after that. The brothers then moved to Ontario to further their studies before moving to Manitoba for the last leg of their educational journey.
After graduating from the course in Ontario, the duo completed their studies at the University of Manitoba and earned their dental degrees in 2020.
“I’m a proud alumnus of that great institution, (the University of Manitoba),” Sesan
proclaimed.
When the brothers graduated as Canadian certifed dentists, their frst job landed them in Estevan, Sask., where they worked for four years. In 2022, however, they wanted to try something a bit different and started making plans to start their own practice.
It appears to be by chance that the brothers found their way to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
“Only one name came to mind: ‘Moose Jaw,’” Sesan explained. “We never thought of any other city. It was just Moose Jaw.”
After approximately one year of planning, the Banjo brothers were on the road and arrived with their families at their new home in 2023. Their practice frst opened on April 16 and saw its frst customer a few days later on April 19.
Ever since, the brothers said they’ve received overwhelmingly positive feedback from their patients.
“We haven’t made the wrong choice,” Sesan said with evident confdence. “This is a great community. We’ve got a lot of support from the locals… and we’re really happy to be here.”
“This is my home right now,” Jomi added. “And it’s probably going to be my home for the rest of my life.”
To book your next appointment, you can call the clinic, book through the easy-to-use booking platform on the clinic’s website or reach out through Facebook Messenger.
For more information about Moose Jaw’s newest dental clinic, visit CivicCentreDental.com.
The Civic Centre Dental Clinic is located at 1251 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-693-7070.
“We felt that we could do things our own way. We wanted our patients to be treated in a special and very unique way,” Sesan explained. He said this opportunity wasn’t possible while working for somebody else, and so their entrepreneurial spirit required a change.
Food bank’s plea for support generates tons of food and monetary donations
The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank’s pleas for support have been answered, as organizations have given it more food and more money to ensure it continues operating and supporting residents.
The food bank was at risk of running out of food because of a dramatic increase in client numbers and soaring grocery costs. Moreover, it needed to raise roughly $150,000 to cover operations for the next three months because donations have been lagging recently, and it has been unable to budget effectively to address the surge in clients.
The fnancial strain also forced the organization on July 18 to reduce the number of hampers it distributes from two per month to one. However, after announcing this measure, support began pouring in from across the country.
“We are pleased to announce that we will be able to continue providing our usual services without reducing the number of hampers, thanks to the generous contributions of our community,” said Jason Moore, the food bank’s executive director.
“Moose Jaw has shown incredible solidarity and generosity, ensuring that those in need continue to receive support.”
Food Banks of Saskatchewan and Food Banks Canada provided several pallets of food, while the G. Murray and Edna Forbes Foundation Fund and the MNP Community Fund — in partnership with the South Saskatchewan Community
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Foundation — each provided $10,000.
Besides community and corporate fundraisers, the food bank has raised an additional $10,000, while the provincial government has provided $40,000. This means the organization has acquired $80,000 — more than half of its $150,000 goal.
“With ongoing fundraisers and continued donations, we are confdent we will reach our goal and continue feeding our community,” Moore said.
To keep the food bank sustainable and prevent a repeat of this crisis, the organization is implementing some longterm service changes, he continued. The food bank will move to a shopping model in October, while it will work closely with its clients through a case management program to provide support to those struggling with cost-of-living challenges.
Based on a community suggestion, the charity is planning to expand the number of fundraising events it holds and offer more opportunities for the community to support it.
There are several ways the community can help the food bank keep its doors open:
• Donate funds: Monetary donations allow the organization to purchase food in bulk and maximize donors’ contributions
• Donate food: Donations of food and other household items are always ac-
cepted on site
• Host events: Businesses or groups that hold events should consider asking for donations for either entry or for placing in donation bins
• Volunteer: Residents’ time and skills can have a signifcant effect
• Spread the word: Supporters should share the food bank’s mission with their networks to increase awareness and support
“The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank remains resolute in our mission to end hunger in our community,” Moore added, “and from the bot-
tom of our hearts, we thank you for your continued support as we navigate these unprecedented times together.”
Sesan Banjo (left) and his younger brother, Jomi Banjo (right) are the co-owners of the Civic Centre Dental Clinic in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Food donations have poured into the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank recently from provincial organizations that heard about the charity’s challenges. Photo submitted
Guest Editorial
Libraries changing with times
After reading about the programs available at the Moose Jaw Public Library, it is abundantly clear that libraries are no longer places of silence, with staff members shushing anyone who dares to speak in an outdoors voice.
Libraries of the past were book-centric, the main goal to sign out books to individuals with those prized library cards. At one time dozens of years ago, rural residents were not permitted to borrow books from the Moose Jaw Library. Rural residents therefore “borrowed” library cards from friends or relatives who happened to live in the city. This meant the library’s rules were turning potential rural readers into written word criminals.
And there was severe punishment if books were not returned on or before the due date: with a no-nonsense reminder of there being no more books borrowed until the late ones were returned.
The coming events column in this newspaper reveals just how much libraries have adapted to meet the needs of the public being served. Libraries are much more than books to be held in one’s hand: library collections have emerged into the technical age and programs that match the developing times.
There are classes to teach mature adults how to manoeuvre through the technological age. The book club choice of the month is available in eBook and audiobook formats (and perhaps in regular book form?) And flms are also available too.
The summer youth reading program offers Scratch tickets for participation and for recording what has been read through the duration of the summer. Scratch tickets eh?
The Moose Jaw Library has programs available for all ages and appears to gear programs to attract patrons not only to reading but listening and observing by moving some events outside the confnes of the stacks.
But rest assured that while innovative and thought provoking programs are being made available to patrons, one thing has not changed. Readers are still welcome to sit at the tables or curl up in the armchairs to read a book, browse through a magazine or read newspapers from near and far.
And who knows: maybe shushing is still an option to be used on overly-enthusiastic book lovers. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
Send your letters to the editor to: joan@moosejawexpress.com
All columns, letters to the editor and editorials are solely the personal opinions of the writers themselves and not necessarily the opinions of The Moose Jaw Express. The contents of this publication are the property of the Moose Jaw Express. Reproduction of any of the contents of this publication, including, but without limiting the generality of the following: photographs, artwork and graphic designs, is strictly prohibited. There shall be no reproduction without the express written consent of the publisher. All ads in the Moose Jaw Express are published in good faith without verifcation. The Moose Jaw Express reserves the right to refuse, classify, revise or censor any ads for any reason in its sole discretion. This paper may include inaccuracies or errors.
The Moose Jaw Express does not under any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of any ads or messages in any of the publications editions. The Moose Jaw Express specifcally disclaims all and any liability to advertisers and readers of any kind for loss or damage of any nature what-so-ever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission or any other cause.
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Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow to host August pancake breakfast fundraisers
The Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow has announced that it will be hosting a pancake breakfast fundraiser throughout the month of August.
These breakfasts will take place during the regularly scheduled Wakamow Valley Farmer’s Market and will run from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kiwanis River Park Pavilion & Lodge on Saturdays.
Each breakfast will feature homemade pancakes “made from scratch,” according to an offcial release, which will be served with real maple syrup, bacon, and coffee or juice. Each meal will cost $10 for an adult and $5 for children ages 10 and under.
The Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow is renowned for its commitment to community engagement, and as a non-proft organization, the club relies on regular fundraising initiatives to provide funding for its projects.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Similar fundraising projects by the Rotary Club enabled its members to make improvements throughout the community, including the recent restoration on Tourism Moose Jaw’s gazebo, and the club has performed numerous trail and other infrastructure maintenance tasks throughout the Wakamow Valley in previous years.
Proceeds from the pancake breakfast program will help make these projects a reality.
Upcoming breakfasts will be held on the following dates at the Kiwanis River Park Pavilion & Lodge:
· Saturday, Aug. 10; outdoors
· Saturday, Aug. 17; outdoors
Regular Contributors: Jason Antonio Randy Palmer Joyce Walter Ron Walter John Kreutzwieser Patricia Hanbidge MLA North Tim McLeod Richard Dowson Nick Kossovan
· Saturday, Aug. 24; indoors
· Saturday, Aug. 31; indoors
The breakfast fundraiser on Aug. 10 will have an added beneft as it’ll be held in conjunction with Square One Community Inc. in support of its ongoing community initiatives.
Square One Community Inc. is a proud part of a strong, diverse community and the organization continues to collaborate with organizations and members of the community who provide supports for the most vulnerable, according to an offcial statement.
To learn more about Square One Community Inc. and its work in the community, visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com or email CommunitySquareOne@gmail.com.
The Wakamow Farmer’s Market runs every Saturday from May to September between the hours of 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and the event is held “come rain or shine,” according to event organizers.
To contact the market’s organizers, the number to call is 306-692-2717. The Wakamow Farmer’s Market also maintains a Facebook page with regular updates at ‘Wakamow Farmers Market.’
To learn more about the Rotary Club, visit RotaryClubOfMooseJawWakamow.org or email Info@RotaryMooseJawWakamow.ca.
The Kiwanis River Park Pavilion & Lodge is next to the skating oval and can be found by following River Drive into the Wakamow Valley.
Moose Jaw tech business helping province drive economic growth through digital storytelling
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Moose Jaw-based business memoryKPR has launched a pilot project in collaboration with the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) to help communities better tell their stories, preserve their histories and drive economic growth.
The business, which launched in 2020 and has become a provider of storytelling and digital content management solutions, is using a grant from Innovation Saskatchewan’s Made in Saskatchewan Technology (MIST) program to give 48 communities the tools and training to develop their storytelling capabilities and connect with other municipalities.
The pilot project launched recently and is already more than 50-per-cent full, although some spots are still available.
“This province is so rich with incredible stories, communities and people that have overcome great odds to support each other and come together as communities,” said founder/CEO Jessica McNaughton.
“We have so many amazing places to visit and such diversity both geographically and culturally; the projects are just starting, but I am already reminded of how great our province is and how proud I am to call Saskatchewan home.”
Connecting communities
In an era of vital digital engagement, memoryKPR’s innovative platform offers communities a seamless way to preserve and share their unique histories and narratives and engage tourists and visitors in their stories, the company said.
By participating in this pilot — Moose Jaw has already joined — communities will receive comprehensive software solutions and training designed to enhance their storytelling skills and foster a deeper sense of connection and identity.
Hearing from speakers like Andrew Hiltz, the SaskWanderer; Doug Griffth, author and Community Economic Development thought leader; Annie Charles, executive director of Indigenous Destination Saskatchewan; and other experts will help set up these communities for success.
“We are so excited to bring our city’s rich and
diverse history to life by diving deeper into storytelling,” said Jacki L’Heureux-Mason, executive director of Tourism Moose Jaw. “This will be another awesome tool in the toolbox we can use to help create an unforgettable experience in Canada’s Most Notorious City!”
Driving economic benefts
This initiative is not just about preserving the past but is also about leveraging digital content to drive future economic growth, the company said.
By enhancing their storytelling competency, communities can attract tourists, promote businesses and create new opportunities for economic development. This project aligns with memoryKPR’s vision of using digital solutions to create tangible economic benefts for Saskatchewan’s communities and tourism groups.
Innovative support
MemoryKPR said the MIST grant from Innovation Saskatchewan underscores the province’s commitment to fostering homegrown technological solutions. This funding enables the company to extend its cutting-edge digital content management solutions to communities that need them the most, supporting their journey toward digital transformation.
Join the movement
“We are thrilled to report that several communities have already joined the program … . We encourage interested communities to seize this opportunity to enhance their digital storytelling capabilities and contribute to Saskatchewan’s economic vitality,” said McNaughton.
“We have villages as small as 150 people, as well as some of our most vibrant bigger cities involved.”
A stronger Saskatchewan
“At memoryKPR, we believe in the power of stories to bring people together. This pilot program is a testament to our commitment to helping communities harness the power of their narratives to build stronger connections and drive economic growth,” McNaughton added.
“We are grateful for the support from Innovation Saskatchewan and excited to see the positive impact this initiative will have on our fabulous province, which is so rich in stories.”
Joyce WalterMoose Jaw Express
By numbers Canada not prepared for a cold or hot war
Chances of global war in the next decade are high, according to many expert observers.
That leads to the question: how prepared is this nation?
Canada has been criticized for not having a stronger military defence force.
While Canada authorized 58,500 in the three services — army, navy, and air, we are currently 16,000 shy of the goal.
So who has the biggest military forces?
Three of the largest military are Asian nations, according to the World Population Review for 2024.
China leads with 2.18 million on active duty and another 1.8 million in reserve or paramilitary.
Second is India with 1.45 million active and 3.5 million in reserve or paramilitary.
The United States ranks third with 1.32 million active and 745,000 in reserve.
Fourth is North Korea at 1.28 million active and 6.3 million in paramilitary or reserves.
Russia is ffth with 1.15 million active and 2.5 million paramilitary or in reserve.
Canada is way down in 135th place and the 2024 review overstates the numbers,
The Review indicates the Canadian military is at 67,000 strength with 3,600 paramilitary and 36,000 in reserves.
Canada has a long ways to go to develop a larger military.
Military can expand rapidly. Ukraine is listed with 209,000 and one million paramilitary or reserves.
Recent news reports place Ukraine military numbers at 900,000 as the country fghts the Russian invasion.
When the Canadian Armed Forces were unifed with one uniform for all in 1969 Canada had about 100,000 active military.
The closure of NATO military bases in Europe and budget cuts saw that number soon shrink to 75,000.
Eventually as the Peace Dividends from the end of the Cold War were taken, the Canadian military was set for 58,500 — a number not achieved for years now.
Military recruiters might need a shake-up. An organization that invited recruiters to a weekend event attracting young people was informed that recruiters don’t work on weekends.
Military numbers alone do not indicate how well equipped a nation’s defence has become.
But Canada lacks modern equipment as well as ade-
By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
quate numbers of active military and reserves.
Speaking recently to a member of the Saskatchewan Dragoons, the Army reserve unit for Moose Jaw and Swift Current, I was informed the Dragoons are well short of authorized numbers — a condition that has existed for decades.
Tiny neutral Switzerland has only 19,000 active military with 196,000 in reserve.
Given that Canada has a vast Northern territory (and may be susceptible to invasion) in a global confict, (it appears) this country is woefully unprepared for the future.
Leaders like to say Canada’s military punches beyond its strength in numbers. That appears true but still doesn’t comfort citizens should a global confict occur.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Former businessman Murray King has fond memories of working at the “iconic” clothing distribution company CanaDay’s Apparel Ltd., but he won’t be sad when the buildings and equipment are auctioned off.
“I’ll be so happy just because it’s been (an economic) burden the last seven years (after it closed in 2017). I’ll (also) be happy to get something for the machinery and the lots and the buildings,” said King, a former merchandising agent, noting he and his brother James, a former sales agent and comanager, continued to pay property taxes and utilities after the closure.
King, 84, began working at the plant at age 18, and remained there for 59 years — almost the company’s entire history.
“We tried to sell the property many times, but nobody wanted it. No, it’s just to be. It’s the nature of the business,” he continued. “It’s a costly business when you have to bring in (supplies and fabrics) from the U.S. It’s not cheap anymore.
“(However), I enjoyed it when I was working there.”
Besides the costs of supplies, the brothers also closed their business because their minimum wages were “too high” compared to manufacturing plants in countries like Bangladesh and China, which could make clothing much cheaper, said King.
The company sold its products — mainly men’s pants — across Canada to well-known businesses, such as Hudson Bay, Woodward’s and Mark’s Work Warehouse. It also sold its clothing to thousands of Canadian small towns.
“We had a good operation going, for sure,” added King.
CanaDay’s Apparel Ltd. began operating in Moose Jaw in 1954, after Day’s Tailor’d Clothing Inc. from Tacoma, Wash., decided to start servicing the entire Canadian market.
Mayor Louis (Scoop) Lewry and Premier Tommy Douglas convinced the American company to move here, while the organization realized that Moose Jaw’s
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
central location and its transportation hub made it an ideal spot. Moreover, there was the available labour pool that could be trained as cutters, spreaders, bundlers, sewers, pressers, inspectors, pickers and shippers.
At the height of CanaDay’s Apparel’s operations, it employed more than 300 people.
Day’s began constructing a plant in September 1953, with the frst pair of its Suntan Kings pants rolling off the assembly line a year later. CanaDay’s products quickly became the “best in the West by test.”
CanaDay’s also produced other brands, such as Don Parker, River Street, Outbacks Canada, Drifter, Thunder Creek, Laurie Artiss and Son of a Beach.
Burnaby, British Columbia-based DirectAuctions.ca is auctioning off everything inside the clothing company’s plant at 115 Coronation Drive and its warehouse — the Pic-a-Pant outlet — at 429 River Street West on Thursday, Aug. 22, along with the
buildings and the lots.
There are 916 items up for auction, ranging from sewing machines to pressure rollers to industrial washers to chairs to vintage exit signs.
Visit https://bid.directauctions.ca/ auctionlist.aspx for more information.
Meryll Dreyer, the Chief Operating Offcer (COO) for Direct Liquidations, which oversees DirectAuctions.ca, said CanaDay’s has an “iconic story” because of its 63-year
history and its “iconic warehouse.”
“It is like a time capsule,” she added.
Reality TV personality Jeff (The Liquidator) Schwarz explained that one of King’s daughters asked if he and Direct Liquidations could auction off the family’s business. He and Dreyer visited Moose Jaw and thought the items in the warehouse were “pretty wild.”
“To see somebody in Moose Jaw with over 300 employees, it’s quite substantial. I don’t think there are many (companies) other than a university or hospital that would have this many people,” Schwarz said
The King brothers weathered many storms in the industry, while they should be commended for keeping the “iconic” and historic plant running for as long as they did, he continued.
Similar to the oil and gas industry, clothing equipment rarely changes, so Schwarz knows other manufacturers can likely use those items in their operations. He also noted that the washing and drying equipment could easily handle all of Moose Jaw’s clothing.
If this property were in downtown Vancouver, it would sell for $40 million, while the heritage building would go for $100 million, Schwarz said. Meanwhile, if his TV show were still running, it would require two full seasons to tell the stories of every item.
“To see this, especially in the condition it is, it’s like a time warp … ,” he added. “This was a very signifcant part of Moose Jaw for many years.”
CanaDay’s Apparel’s manufacturing plant at 115 Coronation Drive. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
The warehouse at 429 River Street West where CanaDay’s Apparel used to sell its men’s clothing. The Pic-a-Pant shop used to operate in this building and sell excess pants. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Reflective Moments
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
14 years have passed and accordion still lonely in case
In my quest for a favourite recipe — which I know just has to be in one of the binders that I carefully started in order to keep clippings and columns in some sort of archival order — I found not the recipe but some musings from another decade.
In this particular column from 2010, I was eloquently describing my musical career in a local accordion band and how my parents bought me the best accordion on the market at Assiniboia Music, located in those days on the northern end and west side of Main Street.
The salesperson was knowledgeable in all things musical and when she made her recommendation, my parents got out their cheque book and the family walked out of the store with the best money could buy.
In addition to the price of the instrument, they paid for weekly lessons, drove on their gas going here and there for performances and endured hours of what must have been excruciatingly awful practices, timed to not interfere with the television news and CHAB broadcasts of the away games of the Canucks and Pla-Mors.
I surely did not fully appreciate their sacrifces and the costs associated with my obscure dream of being another Walter Ostanek who made those accordion keys steal the show wherever he performed. During his career he became known as Canada’s Polka King and won three Grammy Awards out of 21 nominations.
My world stage included the community’s Christmas concerts, an appearance with the band at Music in Colour at Zion United Church, guest performance with the band at the Verwood and Scobey, Montana fair parades and programs, regular concerts for residents of Valley View Centre, being part of the band that won the CHAB summer talent contest three years in a row, and other assorted low-key events.
I was amazed to learn recently that a professional American accordionist can take home about $157,000 in annual salary. Jumpin’ Jeepers. Wouldn’t my parents have been happy to see their offspring bring home even a few dollars to go towards some gas money. It was not to be.
Fourteen years ago, I confessed in a
column that my accordion was languishing in its case, never having seen life outside the velvet lining for more years than I cared to recount.
After reading excerpts from 14 years ago I am reminded how fast time goes by and sometimes, how little has changed.
I am shocked, frst that 14 years have gone by, and secondly that I have shamefully not done anything musical with my accordion in all those years. The closest I have come to it is wiping a bit of dust off the case and browsing through some music books and sheet music that I religiously collected, thinking that one day I would sit down and run magical fngers over the keys and chords to produce music like no one had ever heard before.
Come think of it, maybe that’s the kind of music I produced in those early years when I know neighbours groaned and then shut their windows when I took my practice time out to our back yard. The alley, I know, was soon cleared of stray cats. I know that because my Uncle once told me so.
I do feel guilty about my musical
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily refect the position of this publication.
lapse but a busy life intervened, and then semi-retirement provided me with extra hours with which to do other things unrelated to musical rehearsals.
I do look often toward the grey case, the music stand, the boxes of music, and think perhaps I should seriously get into my music again. But I would have to fnd The Palmer Hughes lesson books for the student just starting to learn the instrument to help me recollect how to fnger the chords and how to put together a simple song from the frst lesson.
So in the autumn, when it is still warm enough for windows to remain open, I hope the neighbours will forgive any noise they might hear coming through the open window of our house.
It could be Yours Truly trying to fnger my way through an unusual rendition of The Accordion Polka. Or indeed, it could be a tomcat howling in terror as it escapes the sounds of what is supposed to be The Colonel Bogey March.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
Central Butte fre dept. holds info night to unveil design of new hall
The Town of Central Butte’s fre department has outgrown its current fre hall, and after two years of planning and designing, it is unveiled a new $1.1 million building project.
The organization held an information night on July 31 at 7:30 p.m. at the town’s legion to inform residents about the project. The department discussed the building’s design, its location, the company that will construct it, the dates for when construction will start and end, the amenities the new hall will have, the fundraising model and the fundraising goal.
Before the info night started, the organization held an open house at its current fre hall from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. to discuss the building’s constraints and why it no longer meets the department’s needs.
Fire Chief Myron Fowler said that unveiling the project is “rather exciting” because he has spent plenty of time speaking with other fre departments about what they have, what they wished they had or what they could have added when they
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
constructed a new building.
“Doing a fre hall is a little different than doing a garage or a farm shop … . It just has different requirements and things we need,” he continued. “So, learning all those things and fguring out what we didn’t want to miss out on or things that weren’t worth it was a big part.
“We’re very happy with the design we got and hoping that it will serve us well for the next 40, 50 (or) 60 years.”
The biggest advantage of the new building is it will provide more space for the fre department to train and hold gear, as the current venue “is jam-packed” and
has grown too small to accommodate the organization’s equipment and practice needs, Fowler said.
The old hall was built to hold two trucks, but the department has four units that it packs inside. The organization was forced to remove its meeting area 10 years ago to accommodate a fourth truck.
The new venue will be 540 square metres (6,000 square feet) in size and will have fve vehicle bays. Furthermore, it will have a new training space and meeting area that will allow the department to set up equipment and leave it out over several days.
This additional space will ensure frefghters can train and learn throughout the week instead of on specifc nights that may not ft their schedules. It will also ensure frefghters can access all
the equipment easily and quickly when responding to calls.
“The training will be much better, plus, the last couple of years we’ve added an extensive amount of equipment, with extra Jaws (of Life) equipment,” Fowler said. “We now have ice rescue equipment we store in the hall … . We will (also) be looking at purchasing grain entrapment equipment, which takes a whole lot of space.”
He added that this extra space would allow the department to expand the hall if necessary.
River Grove Homes from Outlook will construct the new hall, which will be located on Highway 19 south of the Co-op. The company plans to start construction in September and hand over the building keys by next spring.
The building will cost $1.1 million to build, with the fre department aiming to raise roughly $300,000 from the community. Fundraising activities will begin in September, with a duelling pianos event scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 9 at the school.
*Selected Areas means only
were chosen by the business or agency (please call
Fowler added that the remaining money is expected to come from other area communities that have fre-related
An artist’s rendition of what the new fre hall will look like. Photo submitted
SERVING MOOSE JAW
By
Soil – the Heart of Life in the Garden –
Part II
Last issue, the focus of the column was all about soil –and what soil is. This week I would like to continue the discussion as soils are very important in determining the best use of the land. The pH of the soil is important. Nutrient levels of the soil are important. The major components of the soil are of major importance. It is essential to determine the porosity, water holding capacity and general physical quality of the soil in order to truly understand how to work in the best possible way with your soil. We can lump these characteristics under the general term of soil texture and soil structure.
Soil texture is the relative proportion of sand, silt and clay that make up a soil. Most of our soils will contain more than one type of mineral particle. This evolution happened over a very long time and was infuenced by many different conditions. The relative proportion of
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each of these particle types determines the soil texture. When looking at soils from a horticultural perspective determining the soil texture is a very important tool in determining the capacity of that soil to provide the necessary elements for plants to grow.
Healthy soils should be made up of at least half its composition being pore spaces. In order to determine the amount of pore space in a soil will also help to determine its suitability for supporting growth. Remember that soil needs to contain minerals, air and water in order to be suitable for horticultural purposes. The soil structure is all of these components all together as well as a healthy amount of organic matter.
Organic matter is a wonderful amendment that can greatly improve the existing mineral faction of soils. Organic matter is defned as some type of live matter which is now dead and decaying. It can be plant or animal based and is considered an addition or amendment to soils which can actually improve the soil greatly and is commonly used to amend poor soils adding structure and nutrition as well as increase the water holding capacity
of that soil. Organic matter can be compost, well-rotten manure, peat, crushed bark or any other organic matter that can easily and economically used to amend the soil.
When amending a soil, incorporate fully your organic matter that hopefully does not contain any weed seeds or other less than desirable things that commonly make up the soil in our gardens. The topsoil or the frst soil horizon is where most of the plant action will take place. However, trees, shrubs and other deep rooted vegetative plants will also access the next soil layer which is the subsoil. Ideally, you should amend both the topsoil and the subsoil to ensure you are providing good structure, nutrients, water and air to all roots that are growing in your garden. This amendment of the soil is the single, most important aspect of building a healthy soil. Adding lots of organic matter will also aid the multitude of other fora and fauna that also contribute to a healthy soil that will provide a great growing environment for all of the plants that grow there.
My current garden that originally was of poor quality and made up mostly of clay was not a good healthy soil for plants – or for the gardener. I spent much time incorporating a lot of organic matter to ensure the soil was of the utmost health. Now, twenty years later – it is still of superior quality and the resulting maintenance that I need to do continues to be minimal.
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?
Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Never fear: the zucchini crop will soon be here
While some garden plots are behind in producing an abundance of vegetables so far this year, it is never too late to plot/plan how to use what will possibly be an over-abundance of zucchini.
This week’s recipes feature the versatile zucchini.
• •
• BAKED ZUCCHINI AND CHEESE
3-4 small zucchini, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 large tomato, sliced salt and pepper to taste grated garlic to taste sprinkle of thyme and oregano to taste Butter a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer zucchini, onion and tomato. Add seasonings. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes. Serves 4-6.
• • • FRENCH FRIED ZUCCHINI
4 small zucchini
1/3 cup four
1 tsp. salt
2 eggs
2 tbsps. water
1 cup four
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Trim ends of zucchini and cut into strips like large French fries.
Combine 1/3 cup four and salt. Beat eggs with water. Combine 1 cup of four with the grated cheese. Roll zucchini pieces in four and salt mixture, dip in eggs then roll in four and cheese mixture.
Deep fry at 375 degrees F until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve with a favourite dip. Serves 4-6.
• • • ZUCCHINI CHOCOLATE CAKE
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups grated zucchini
2 1/4 cups four
4 tbsps. cocoa
1 tsp. each baking powder and soda
1/2 tsp. each cinnmon and cloves
1 tsp. salt
1/2 cup sour milk
1 1/2 tsps. vinegar
Beat together the butter, oil, sugar and eggs. Peel and grate the zucchini and add to the butter mixture.
Sift together all the dry ingredients. Add the vinegar to regular milk and stir to make sour milk.
Mix the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, alternately with the sour milk.
Grease and four a 9x13 inch cake pan. Pour cake batter into pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45-60 minutes.
Remove from oven, cool then frost with a favourite icing.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net
SCRAPS Moose Jaw invites you to attend its Thursday night markets
Every Thursday night, SCRAPS (Stray Cat Rescue and Protection Society) Moose Jaw brings new life to the parking lot behind the Church of God as it unites cat-loving residents in a weekly hub of activity supporting its ongoing programming for stray cats in the community.
The market runs each Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is planned to run until Sept. 26.
“The Thursday night markets are… just another way that we’re looking to raise awareness about our program…,” explained Gail Duchak, the fundraising co-ordinator for SCRAPS Moose Jaw.
“(It’s an) optimum location; it has shade and it’s protected in a cozy little parking long that’s newly paved…,” she said. “It’s clean and easy to access right off Main Street.”
SCRAPS is a local non-proft organization run entirely by volunteers with the goal of monitoring and limiting the feral cat population in the city.
“We’ve been involved in various markets (that were) coordinated by other parties,” she said. “This is the frst year we’ve coordinated our own.”
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The market includes some of the merchandise sold at the 9 Lives Boutique in the Town ‘N’ Country Mall, as well as volunteer handcrafted items and numerous donations.
“It’s a little selection of things we normally would carry, like we always have our honeysuckle and our catnip mice,” explained Duchak.
All proceeds raised through the market helps support SCRAPS during one of its busiest seasons.
“Right now, we’re really active in our TNR (trap, neuter, release) season,” Duchak said. “We’re doing lots of (cat rescues) … managing colonies, and putting money towards food.
“This time of the year is quite intense for our veterinary costs,” she continued. Her explanation included a mention of several new kittens taken into the organization’s care, along with medical bills and maintaining the regular TNR program.
To help in the effort, SCRAPS is inviting any interested vendors to join the current average of around nine who attend as weather permits. A wide variety of vendors are now being sought out to help grow the market and anyone interested is invited to call in to inquire.
“People are invited to come, and other vendors have an opportunity to join us. It’s a way for them to showcase their products,” Duchak said.
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Due to possible weather concerns — initially the market faced cool and wet conditions, and now the city has experienced an ongoing heat wave — it should be pointed out that SCRAPS does not bring any of its animals to the outdoor market.
In addition to the Thursday night markets, SCRAPS Moose Jaw is also active at the Wakamow Valley Farmer’s Market that takes place on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We always want to send out a gracious thank you to our community,” Duchak said. “(This extends to) all the businesses and individuals in Moose Jaw and beyond (who) support us fnancially and (through) sharing our message.”
SCRAPS Moose Jaw has also hinted that a few exciting announcements are in store in the near future — so keep an eye out for updates.
For more information or to apply as a vendor, SCRAPS Moose Jaw can be reached at 306-684-9048 or by email at Scraps-MJ@hotmail.com. The table fee is $15 per vendor.
The SCRAPS Thursday night markets are currently held in the parking lot behind the Church of God and St. Andrew’s United Church and will run until Thurs-
The views and opinions expressed 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
“Everyone is Laughing at Me” Media Saturation and Homelessness
We have all seen it, a news article with a photo of someone experiencing homelessness to catch your attention.
Maybe a friend posted a “funny” clip on a social media of a person who is struggling with mental health doing something we might fnd bizarre or unexplainable.
Maybe your favourite content creator is publishing their opinions on homelessness and has been taking footage of people living on public streets as their background.
It is no secret to any community in Canada right now, rates of people experiencing homelessness is at an all time high for a variety of reasons. What has also increased is the media saturation on the topic.
From news coverage to people’s private social media feeds, we are seeing more and more of the day-to-day struggles of unhoused individuals, along with the entire community’s opinions of them. Sometimes this is done with best intentions, to raise awareness and bring change, other times for exploitative or negative purposes. What is consistent, however, is the impact it has on people experiencing homelessness.
I had someone I worked with give me
permission to share a story that impacted their life signifcantly. During one very cold winter, he had found a warm vent by a building to sleep next to consistently. One night, a group of younger revellers exited a local bar and passed by his spot. Someone saw him, and they began to laugh. Phones came out, and they were snapping pictures and videos of him. He became upset and shouted at them to leave, which they did after more camera fashes. He explained to me that every night new people came to fnd him at his spot and began calling him “the crazy bad air freshener”. He shouted many times; “why wont you people leave me alone!” He was told he was going viral across Snap Chat feeds, making him a public spectacle. He said to me, with tears in his eyes, “Everyone is laughing at me, nobody understands how hard I have been trying”.
And of course they did not, his story
was being told by people that didn’t know him or understand him. He, a struggling individual, was receiving the brunt of our collective judgement, at no fault of his own.
The Right to privacy is something we in Canada have come to expect and enjoy. We can close our door and selectively share the contents of our lives through flters and edits. Someone who is experiencing homelessness rarely enjoys this Right. Everything someone does when they don’t have a home to call their own, is done in public, or in a group setting. This lack of privacy increases peoples stress levels and deteriorates their mental health.
Giving someone the privacy and dignity all people deserve is something we as a community can easily grant. Seeking permission and consent for content creation is an essential component to doing so.
Saskatchewan’s Integrated Youth Services program announces launch of its brand identity
Saskatchewan’s Integrated Youth Services (IYS) program, which has selected Moose Jaw to host one of its initial four locations, has announced the launch of a new brand to distinguish all its sites across the province on July 30.
After a collaborative project involving the IYS and the province, “HOMEBASE” has been selected as the new name for the organization. Its affliated slogan is “For Youth — By Youth.”
“Integrated youth services make it easier for our young people to access the supports and services they need in one location,” announced Tim McLeod, minister of mental health and addictions.
“The new brand ensures young people ages 12 to 25 and their caregivers can easily identify IYS sites,” he said. The IYS program is both a national and international movement that comes as part of a $3.4 million investment in 2023-2024. The program aims to re-imagine how youths between the ages of 12 and 25, along with their caregivers, can locate and access the resources, services, and supports they need.
Among the services typically offered through IYS are mental health and addictions services, peer supports, physical health programs, education, employment and employee training supports, cultural and traditional supports, as well as various social and community services. This program is implemented by the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan, a non-proft organization assisting at-risk individuals or those otherwise involved in the criminal justice process.
• Sat, Aug 10
• Sat, Aug 17
• Sat, Aug 24
• Sat, Sept 21
• Thurs, Oct 3
- B & T Johnson Estate Sale, plus more
- Regular Saturday Morning Sale
- Sheep & Goat Sale
- Sheep & Goat Sale
- Regular Horse Sale
Check our website for details or call for updates.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“HOMEBASE” and the slogan “For Youth — By Youth” have been selected as the brand identity to represent the new Saskatchewan Integrated Youth Services program set to launch this fall. Photo by: Saskatchewan Integrated Youth Services
John Howard’s mission is to ensure that “Communities have effective, just, humane practices that support positive social outcomes” according to its website, and the organization helps provide consistent implementation of the program.
In the provincial model for IYS, these young residents will be provided rapid access to youth-targeted supports and the program’s focus is on prevention and early intervention.
On Jan. 30, the Government of Saskatchewan an-
nounced that Moose Jaw will be one of the frst four locations chosen to host the new IYS hubs in the province. The three additional locations are in Regina, Humboldt, and the Sturgeon Lake First Nation with further locations to be announced in the near future.
“HOMEBASE is so excited to launch our identity as we move forward on our journey to open sites to meet the needs of young people throughout our province,” announced Paim Reimer, the HOMEBASE director.
“We are grateful for the youth on our co-design team who spearheaded this process and did the heavy lifting as we enact our vision of how HOMEBASE will be shaped.”
The inter-sectoral IYS initiative is supported by leadership from several provincial ministries including the ministries of Health, Education, Social Services, Justice and Attorney General, Corrections, and others.
The staff onboarding and site development process is nearly complete as of July 30, and it’s expected that these sites will become operational this fall with a date to be determined.
More information about the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan and its programming can be found at Sk. JohnHoward.ca/About.
To learn more about the IYS initiative, visit its new website at HomeBaseSask.ca.
Stats Canada stops ranking crime severity rates among Canadian municipalities
Moose Jaw ranked 41st nationally in 2022 for its crime rate, but recent changes by Statistics Canada mean it’s no longer possible to determine how the community ranks compared to other municipalities.
On July 25, Statistics Canada’s Canadian Centre for Justice Studies (CCJS) released its report on crime statistics in 2023, which examined municipalities’ Crime Severity Index (CSI).
A crime rate is calculated using the number of police-reported offences per population size, while the CSI weighs the seriousness of each crime.
The data show that Moose Jaw’s CSI rating last year was 116.61, a decline from 120.98 or a 3.55-per-cent drop from 2022.
Furthermore, its violent CSI rating was 103.54, an increase from 101.94 or a 1.2-per-cent increase from 2022.
Also, the municipality’s non-violent CSI rating was 122.82, a decrease from 129.61 or a 5.05-per-cent decline from 2022.
A review of the online data tables for 2023 for overall CSI ratings shows that:
• North Battleford: 598.48, an increase of 6.58 percentage points from 2022
• Prince Albert: 333.97, an increase of 13.93 percentage points over 2022
• Yorkton: 181.11, an increase of 8.72 percentage points over 2022
• Saskatoon: 131.02, an increase of 1.17 percentage points from 2022
• Regina: 117.36, an increase of 2.23
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
A table showing the overall crime severity index, the violent CSI and the non-violent CSI for the City of Moose Jaw in 2023 and the increases or decreases compared to 2022.
percentage points over 2022
• Swift Current: 112.12, an increase of 20.24 percentage points from 2022
• Weyburn: 83.09, an increase of 6.2 percentage points over 2022
• Estevan: 115.48, an increase of 32.36 percentage points from 2022
• Warman: 21.51, a decrease of 38.47 percentage points compared to 2022
• Martensville: 34.48, an increase of 21.92 percentage points over 2022
Overall, Saskatchewan’s CSI rating was 160.2 last year, an increase of two percentage points compared to 2022.
Normally, the CCJS produces an information spreadsheet that compares CSI values for 330 police services in communities with a population of over 10,000 people and ranks those municipalities from 1 to 330. The data comes from the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) survey.
North Battleford placed frst nationally in 2022 with an overall CSI rating of 557.1.
The other Saskatchewan communities on the list last year included Prince Albert in ffth spot, Yorkton in 23rd place, Saskatoon in 39th spot, Moose Jaw in 41st
spot, Regina in 51st place, Swift Current in 73rd spot, Weyburn in 99th spot, Estevan in 107th place, Warman in 297th spot, and Martensville in 316th place.
However, Stats Canada explained in an email to the Moose Jaw Express that it has stopped producing those rankings based on “signifcant … feedback” it has received from communities.
“Concerns were expressed about the use of CSI rankings without an appropriate consideration of local communities and the broader social context, which sometimes resulted in misinterpretation and misunderstandings,” the organization said.
Statistics Canada has made “new products” available to accompany the latest crime data to help Canadians understand and “appropriately use” the CSI data, it continued. One new product includes information about the importance of considering critical contextual data when interpreting and analyzing crime data.
However, Statistics Canada’s crime data remain unchanged, while the CSI value and other important crime data will continue to be available for all police services reporting to the UCR, the email added. The information can be found in online data tables on the Statistics Canada website at statcan.gc.ca under “Policereported crime in Canada, 2023.”
Moose Jaw safer now than 20 years ago, new data suggests
Residents may think that crime is rampant and out of control, but new data suggests the community is safer now than it was 20 years ago.
The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) and Board of Police Commissioners held a news conference on July 29 to discuss Statistics Canada’s recent release of the 2023 crime severity index (CIS) data.
The data show that in 2003, Moose Jaw’s overall CSI rating was 152, its violent CSI rating was 103 and its non-violent CSI rating was 171.
In comparison, in 2022, those numbers were, respectively, 117, 104 and 123.
“So over the past 20 years, public safety has increased, and the crime severity has decreased in our community, (so) that is heartening news,” police Chief Rick Bourassa said. “Until those numbers come to zero — which is really aspirational — we won’t be satisfed, but we are pleased to see that the numbers are down from what they were.
“So if we just look at these data, what we can say is Moose Jaw is a safer city than it was 20 years ago … ,” he added. “Even just something as a more visible presence (in the community has helped).”
The chief also presented other data showing the 2023 CSI ratings for six major Saskatchewan cities and the province as a whole.
Weyburn’s CSI rating was 83, Estevan’s was 115, Moose Jaw’s was 117, Regina’s was 117, Saskatoon’s was 131 and Prince Albert’s was 334; Saskatche-
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
wan’s overall rating was 160.
Moose Jaw’s rating last year was a decline from its 2022 fgure of 120.98 or a 3.55-percentage-point drop.
Meanwhile, the violent — people-related — CSI ratings for those six cities were 71 for Weyburn, 104 for Moose Jaw, 150 for Regina, 157 for Saskatoon, 164 for Estevan and 496 for Prince Albert; Saskatchewan’s rating was 201.
Moose Jaw’s rating last year was an increase from its 2022 fgure of 101.94 or a 1.2-percentage-point increase.
Furthermore, the non-violent — property-related — ratings for those six cities were 88.6 for Weyburn, 97.1 for Estevan, 105.22 for Regina, 121.84 for Saskatoon, 122.82 for Moose Jaw and 271.9 for Prince Albert; Saskatchewan’s rating was 145.04.
Moose Jaw’s rating last year was a decrease from its 2022 rating of 129.61 or a 5.05-percentage-point decline.
Also, the weighted clearance rates — which assess how well police services solve violent crimes
— for the six cities last year were 74 for Moose Jaw, 62 for Regina, 61 for Weyburn, 57 for Estevan, 44 for Saskatoon and 43 for Prince Albert; Saskatchewan’s rating was 54.
“… our police service — our members — are doing an exceptional (and phenomenal) job of solving those crimes and holding those people accountable who committed them,” Bourassa said.
Statistics Canada’s data is based on police-reported crimes and what’s reported to police, and according to a recent community survey, “the vast majority” of residents report crimes, the chief continued. The small minority who don’t report crimes say they didn’t call because the incident was minor.
There has been a “steady, steady increase” in calls for service since 2019, with the organization receiving 15,626 calls that year and 19,813 last year, Bourassa remarked. Roughly 25 per cent of calls are about crime, while about 75 per cent are non-crime-related; stress from the pandemic has been the biggest contributor.
“So we very clearly are responding
to just about everything people call us about so we can problem-solve and keep things from developing into something far (more) serious than they already were,” the chief stated.
The MJPS developed Police and Crisis Team (PACT) units to support people facing mental health crises, while it has been working with Social Services staff to address family abuse, he said.
To address “the really problematic” issues of internet child exploitation (ICE) and child pornography, the MJPS launched a unit because it saw that those issues were a concern here, the chief continued. That unit has generated tons of data that has helped the organization fnd and charge the people responsible for those crimes. Furthermore, the MJPS has increased its investigative capacity to address gun and drug problems and hold those people accountable.
“We’re happy to help people, and we encourage people (to) call us … if you need us (or) you’re seeing things that shouldn’t be happening,” Bourassa added.
Photo courtesy Statistics Canada
Chief Rick Bourassa discusses CSI data from 2003 and 2023, with the data showing that most numbers have declined during the past 20 years. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
A table showing the number of calls police have received during the past fve years. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
The overall crime severity index (CSI) data from Statistics Canada. Moose Jaw’s rating last year was 117. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
A table showing violent CSI data ratings. Moose Jaw’s rating last year was 104. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Moose Jaw’s Brian Marytnook appointed to WDM board of directors
Lt.-Gov. Russ Merasty recently made two appointments to the Western Development Museum’s board of directors, with one appointee calling Moose Jaw home.
The WDM welcomes Rodney Andrews (Saskatoon) and Brian Martynook (Moose Jaw) to the board. Both Andrews and Martynook bring diverse experience and community leadership to the organization.
Since his retirement, Andrews has been volunteering at the WDM in Saskatoon.
“As an arts student at the University of Saskatchewan, I chose Canadian history as my major, with a special interest in western Canadian history,” he said. “When I am at the Western Development Museum, I feel I am
By Moose Jaw Express staf
walking in that history. I enjoy being a museum guide. WDM has a special place in my life. I am glad to be a director.”
Martynook is a staunch advocate for community development and has served on numerous boards and committees. He brings leadership experience from diverse industries to the WDM.
“I believe that embracing our heritage is essential for every community. It is particularly pleasurable to take children to the WDM exhibits and interactive displays where they can uncover the past in a hands-on way,” he said.
“Watching their excitement and curiosity as they
Provincial Court Report
explore and learn about the past is a true joy,” Martynook added. “I am honored to be appointed as a Director on the WDM Board and look forward to playing a role in its continued growth and long-term success.”
Reappointed for a second term as chair is Orlanda Drebit (Saskatoon). Robert Linn (Saskatoon) and Bernie Broughton (Saskatoon) have also been re-appointed for a second term with Anita Fuller (Saskatoon) continuing on the board.
The board of directors serve as trustees for the WDM on behalf of the people of Saskatchewan and are responsible for ensuring the WDM fulfls its mandate with a strong vision for the future.
Legal Aid reviewing whether to help Assiniboia man accused of sexual ofences against kids
Assiniboia resident Richard Dyke, who is accused of 60 counts of sexual offences against minors, will continue to remain in custody as the courts fnd him a lawyer.
Dyke, 47, appeared in Moose Jaw Provincial Court by video on July 31, with defence counsel Estes Fonkalsrud acting on his behalf.
The lawyer told Judge Brian Hendrickson that he has spoken with the Legal Aid of Saskatchewan head offce about this situation, with the organization reviewing the fle to determine whether it should appoint a Legal Aid lawyer or have Fonkalsrud handle it because of new charges.
Fonkalsrud asked that the matter be adjourned until
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Wednesday, Aug. 28, with the judge agreeing to the request.
According to previous information, Dyke was initially arrested in November 2023 after the RCMP received a report of sexual assaults involving three boys under the age of 12 around 2015. When frst arrested, Dyke was charged with 13 sex-related offences.
Dyke is now facing 60 charges including 14 counts of sexual assault, 14 counts of sexual interference, nine counts of voyeurism, and 23 counts of making child pornography under the Criminal Code. The RCMP said 32 children — some as young as 18 months old — have been identifed in an ongoing investigation on the Assiniboia
resident.
Police say that Dyke was living at home and his partner was operating a registered daycare at the address when the offences took place.
The General Investigation Section and Internet Child Exploitation units of the RCMP continue to investigate the case to determine whether there are additional victims that have not yet been identifed.
People with information pertaining to the case should contact the Moose Jaw RCMP at 306-691-4670 or their nearest detachment. People can also contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at SaskCrimeStoppers.com.
MLA Greg Lawrence unable to fnd new counsel, wants former lawyer to represent him
Moose Jaw lawyer Estes Fonkalsrud had withdrawn as defence counsel for outgoing MLA Greg Lawrence because of an alleged confict of interest, but the latter still wants the former to represent him.
Fonkalsrud appeared in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on July 31 on behalf of the retiring politician, where he told Judge Brian Hendrickson that Lawrence wants confrmation about whether the lawyer truly has a confict of interest with one Crown witness.
It is that alleged confict that prompted the defence lawyer to withdraw as Lawrence’s counsel on July 16.
Meanwhile, Fonkalsrud said that Lawrence has reached out to other defence lawyers in the community to represent him, but none is available for the scheduled trial on Monday, Nov. 18. Yet, the Moose Jaw-Wakamow MLA will continue to look for legal representation.
Fonkalsrud added that he would continue to act as an agent for Lawrence until the latter found a lawyer.
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Crown prosecutor Rob Parker encouraged the court to keep the Nov. 18 trial date for Lawrence’s matters regardless of whether or when he fnds a lawyer since it is tough to secure timely dates for trials; Judge Brian Hendrickson agreed to the request.
Lawerence will next appear in court on Tuesday, Aug. 13.
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.
Specifcally, police charged Lawrence with assault, contrary to section 266 of the Criminal Code, and choking, contrary to section 267 of the Criminal Code.
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 investi-
gation.
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.
Man sent to federal jail for invading mother’s home and assaulting her
Cameron Dayne St. Laurent is pleased that he will spend the next two years in a federal jail because he will have access to programming to help him quit his drug addiction.
That addiction to meth — which he began using to numb his pain over the deaths of several relatives — is what caused him to attack his mother, assault a stranger, damage the siding of a home and squat in an abandoned building, Moose Jaw Provincial Court heard recently.
St. Laurent illegally entered his mother’s home on June 10 by opening the back door using a key he had taken without permission, where he encountered the woman and began fghting with her, explained Crown prosecutor Rob Parker.
The 38-year-old knocked a phone out of his mother’s hand that she was using to call police and then pushed her to the foor, where she hit her head on a freplace, the Crown continued.
St. Laurent then wrapped his arm around his mother, but she freed herself and fell and lost her glasses and phone. He grabbed her again and pushed her out the front door, where she yelled at a neighbour to call police. The man then left, but not before taking $10 worth of
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lottery tickets and his mother’s phone.
Parker summarized St. Laurent’s other offences, including one incident in June where the man took a rock and damaged the siding of a home on Caribou Street West and a second incident where he illegally entered a vacant home on Fairford Street East and squatted in it because he was homeless.
A third incident last December saw St. Laurent have a verbal disagreement with an 81-year-old man at Riverside Mission during breakfast and then shove the senior to the ground, injuring him.
St. Laurent had been on remand for 48 days when he appeared by video in court, so as part of a joint submission, the Crown credited him with 72 days served. Moreover, for every crime but the home invasion and assault, those 72 days counted as time served.
However, for the home invasion and attack, he was given two years in a federal prison.
He must also provide a DNA sample and is prohibited from owning or using weapons for 10 years.
As part of the joint submission, St. Laurent pleaded guilty to failing to attend court, assaulting the senior, mischief over $5,000, breaking and entering, and attacking his mother.
The Crown stayed several other charges.
“He is extremely remorseful. He is showing his remorse with these pleas,” said Legal Aid lawyer Merv Shaw.
All these incidents occurred because St. Laurent’s life was collapsing around him, as he experienced the deaths of several family members, which caused him to sink about as low as one can in life, the lawyer continued. This is when he began using meth to cope.
“His actions suggest someone who is on meth and not in his right mind,” Shaw noted, adding St. Laurent asked to be sent to a federal penitentiary because it has more resources to help him recover.
Judge Brian Hendrickson accepted the joint submission, saying it was appropriate and within the range for a home invasion.
“… a home invasion is aggravating. You broke into your mother’s home. You assaulted her,” the judge remarked. “A person is allowed to be safe in their own home.” Hendrickson also agreed to waive the victim fne surcharge.
Residents pack the Events Centre for city’s July 29 open public safety meeting
A packed room, civil discourse, and perhaps unexpected decorum marked the public safety meeting held at the Moose Jaw Events Centre on July 29.
After a petition to discuss the location of the planned Souls Harbour Rescue Mission failed to get the required minimum number of signatures earlier, city council was convinced of the need for a public discussion to address homeless shelters in general, along with addiction services and safety concerns in downtown Moose Jaw.
Beginning at 6 p.m., 41 registered speakers — with a few absentees — were allotted fve minutes each to speak their mind on any relevant topic of their choosing. These topics ranged from downtown safety issues to personal experiences and an exploration of the root causes of the problem.
Defning the problem
“We care about our city’s future, otherwise we wouldn’t be here,” announced Patty Yuzek, who was the thirteenth speaker on July 29. “The fact is that people care. They care about fnding solutions to our current problem.”
Whether each speaker agreed or disagreed with the shelter’s location, a seemingly unanimous position viewed Moose Jaw’s homeless issue as being largely a mental health and addictions issue.
“I’ve said before, I don’t believe our city has a homeless problem; we have an addiction problem,” she added.
Donna Boyer, who works with Journey to Hope, pointed out that many problematic behaviours — unintentionally alluding to earlier experiences shared by Sandra Nickson and Cynthia Watson in downtown Moose Jaw — are largely caused by a person living in survival mode.
“Our human survival needs are food, water, clothing, sleep, and shelter,” Boyer said, referencing the Canadian Observatory on Homelessness. Many who commit risky behaviours are doing so out of survival — a position which was backed by other speakers including Megan Jasper, who was once addicted and homeless but is now seven years clean.
“I was that girl,” she said. “I was that girl that went
through your garbage, went through your back alley, and I was also the girl that broke into your car. I didn’t do those things to hurt you.
“I did those things because I didn’t have a place to sleep and my stomach was hungry.”
Jasper believes the proposed downtown shelter can help provide a solution for the core reasons for these behaviours.
“So, if you want to take people like me and segregate us and throw us outside of town… far from our core support system, (success) stories like mine won’t happen,” she said.
A few things to consider
Connie Conrad and her family have lived in Moose Jaw for over 20 years and helped donate around half a million dollars to the Riverside Mission. She said she’s in support of the shelter’s downtown location and gave a few suggestions for the audience to think about.
Imagine if there’s no Riverside Mission, she said in her example, and winter is coming.
“Homeless people may be sleeping in doorways, under cardboard boxes, on park benches, or in garbage bins,” she said. “This may result in increased visits to emergency at the hospital due to illnesses from living rough.”
She said there would also be tent encampments in Crescent Park and down in the Wakamow Valley, where folks would be “living in unsafe conditions with the risk of fres.”
“We have seen these encampments in Victoria Park in Regina, and in other cities as well,” she added.
“Now imagine the second scenario: There’s a new (mission) and a safe place with a warm bath, hot meals, a laundry facility, a caring hand, and a listening ear,” she continued. “What scenario would we like for Moose Jaw?”
Her statement was reinforced by Maxton Eckstein, who — based on around 10 years of experience as team lead for a Regina-based homeless program — noted that people tend to stay close to the resources and social connections available to them.
Rom Jukes, who spoke after Eckstein, suggested everyone “avoid the very tempting, very human tendency to pick a side” on the matter, adding that “We are a community together.”
Crystal Peterson, who manages the Willow Lodge shelter, said the best indication of success is to have a strong support network.
The Willow Lodge, she said, has provided a warm bed 1,934 times, served over 3,000 meals, and has created “countless non-judgmental relationships.”
“Our guests are much like you and I,” she said. “They are our neighbours, our parents, our classmates, and our coworkers. Noone ever chooses this path.
“Sometimes we are born into it. Sometimes it’s a slow spiral. And sometimes we are just one missed paycheck away,” she continued. “Every person that stays in our shelter has a story.
“If we don’t have people in our lives that support us, love us, and wholeheartedly want the best for us, none of us would succeed,” she said.
The public safety meeting concluded after approximately four hours. Although insightful, the meeting was not a city council meeting which means no motions, debates, or decisions were made by city council, who was in attendance during the meeting.
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Norma Lafonte speaks during the public safety meeting at the Moose Jaw Events Centre on July 29. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Downtown safety meeting: Concerned residents ofer a few solutions
During the public meeting on July 29, city council opened a forum for concerned residents to speak their minds for fve minutes on the topic of safety in downtown Moose Jaw.
This article is part of a three-part series and focuses on some of the solutions brought up by concerned residents at that meeting.
Building therapeutic relationships
Maxton Eckstein is the co-ordinator at Square One Community Inc. He has a decade of experience working with the chronically homeless through a Regina Housing First program.
“What works? What turns a life around?” he began. “The answer is relationships.
“Studies have shown that up to 70 per cent of someone’s rehabilitation comes from their relationship with their key worker — not the size of the program, funding, facilities, (or) the specifc programming offered.”
Building healthy relationships involves boundaries and clear expectations of behaviour. Crystal Harvey, who described herself as a single mom and passionate volunteer, said she’s witnessed the successes of this attitude when volunteering with St. Aidan Anglican Church’s meal program.
Crystal Peterson, who manages the Willow Lodge shelter, said many of her clients — who oftentimes start out as being slow to trust and slow to learn — soon improve by “leaps and bounds” once they receive a listening, non-judgemental ear.
Building a sense of belonging is something any citizen can do, as Megan Nash pointed out. After she found herself feeling uncomfortable around one particular homeless gentleman, she said “Hello” and started to build report.
“He’s actually such a sweetheart… And for me, that’s Moose Jaw right there,” she added.
Donna Boyer, who works with Journey to Hope, said this sense of belonging can be achieved through something as simple as a Christmas care package and a positive message.
Accessibility of services
Advocates of the downtown location for the shelter
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say the site is crucial because it’s where affected individuals currently live, and Eckstein said individuals will stay where their social connections are.
Connie Conrad added that the location is “a pretty good ft” as it’s only a few blocks from the Riverside Mission, is close to downtown services, is outside of a residential area, and the police station is only three blocks away if needed.
“Attempting to restrict or relocate services will not only isolate people but will create a self-fulflling prophecy of creating the high risk behaviours a plan like this purports to eliminate…,” Eckstein said.
“Our shelters are not a stopgap for someone to get stuck in,” he continued. “They are a gateway into the support system that will change somebody’s life and they need to be located where people are.”
Wrap-around supports
The causes of homelessness, mental health struggles, and addictions stem from complex and highly individual roots, but the majority of the criminal behaviours exhibited by certain individuals often boils down to survival instincts.
Boyer said human survival needs include food, water, clothing, sleep, and shelter, and core human needs entail love, connections, signifcant personal growth, and contributing to society.
“To support people’s mental wellness, they need their survival and core needs met frst,” she said.
A continuum of social supports, Mary Lee Booth explained, involves an emergency shelter as a frst step, but also rapid rehousing with a focus on independent living, barrier-free access to health, community outreach, and social services to aid in recovery.
“Once someone is housed with actual wraparound supports, that is when real change occurs,” Eckstein said. “In practice, I have found that over 90 per cent of the clients I have worked with personally chose to deal with an addiction after they were housed...”
Square One’s social housing advisory committee, Booth said, is currently being assembled to facilitate this wraparound support and addresses a point brought up by Rom Jukes, who said one key to a working solution is
removing the silo effect keeping separate organizations from communicating and cooperating.
Megan Jasper, who is seven years clean after facing a period of addiction and homelessness, said the key to her recovery was through a shelter such as the one proposed for Moose Jaw that focuses on long-term solutions.
Housing and ongoing supports are important, and Jasper pointed out that many on the streets are at a serious disadvantage due to the lack of important resources.
“People tell you, ‘Go get a job,’” she said. “Would you hire me… if I hadn’t slept in seven days? If I stunk, would you hire me?
“I know that there are people on the streets right now that are willing and able to work,” she said. “I was willing.”
Carolyn Ross, a Good Neighbours Group member, said the community “needs to focus on the reality of a long-term recovery plan” and suggests utilizing the Five Stream Process. This process entails an examination of the problem, its solution, as well as relevant politics, processes, and proposed programmes.
“The ultimate goal is a recovery community for everyone,” Ross said. “I’ve been in contact with an organization that supports the Five Stream Process and is currently in a southern Saskatchewan Community. The success rate is high.”
She said there’s at least one not-for-proft currently located in a Moose Jaw residential area that operates on this framework and is a model others should consider.
“We don’t have any concerns from any of the residents in that area,” she said. “The organization is operating on a smaller scale and provides all the wraparound services any individuals may require.”
Harvey said one attribute of a successful recovery program is a place anyone can feel comfortable when they’re having a mental health crisis, and nobody should be left to struggle alone. Businesses or residents targeted by certain individuals should also have access to an outreach worker who can assist in person when needed.
“We have the opportunity before us to be leaders in the care and support of those less fortunate,” Conrad concluded, perhaps summarizing the spirit of the evening.
Downtown safety meeting: Concerned residents, business owners share their experiences
During the public meeting on July 29, city council opened a forum for concerned residents to speak their minds for fve minutes on the topic of safety in downtown Moose Jaw.
This article is part of a three-part series and focuses on the perspective of concerned business owners, residents, and the perspective of citizens who support the aims of the shelter but recommend a location outside of the downtown core.
Cynthia Watson is the owner of Sole Connection Therapeutic & Prenatal Massage.
“For 15 years I’ve been a massage therapist…,” Watson said. “But (in) the past fve years it has become… a death by a thousand cuts.
“(W)hile renovating for two years at 1011 Main (Street North), we were robbed 37 times. Teams of petty thieves have cased (targeted for future burglary) our houses by walking up the front street and down the alley.
“Down the alley there’s a band of bicycle thieves,” she added.
During the pandemic, Watson was able to keep her business afoat by offering her business space as an Airbnb. She said the venture was successful — except for a number of unexpected interruptions which resulted in her decision to close the Airbnb two years later.
When a neighboring care home had to close its doors, the property became an unoffcial sober living facility with fve to seven residents.
“Suddenly there was more action in the back alley than I had (ever) seen,” she said.
Among the incidents she reported were thieves routinely sorting stolen goods in the driveway, a naked man running out of a second-foor doorway, a man yelling for two days non-stop because his medication wore off, and during the night trespassers routinely tap on her windows.
“I got paintballed trying to rescue someone’s bike,” she added.
“I just wanted to shield my guests from the carnage of someone else’s bad choices,” she explained. “(My guests) came to visit and their cars (got) vandalized… And every time someone cancels, you’re penalized (as the Airbnb owner).
“And if what I had observed with an unoffcial, sober living facility next to my property is indicative of what would happen with a mission downtown next to our tourist centres that we’ve spent two decades creating, then we are in trouble,” she warned. She said the key to healing is to get away from the down-
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town urban hustle, including the bars and peer groups that keep individuals locked in a negative lifestyle.
Another resident, Sandi Nixon, shared her banking experiences at a downtown ATM (she did not specify if this was the Bank of Montreal or at another location).
“I’ve been accosted twice,” Nixon said. “One was a fairly large man, and I gave him $5 — rather than the $20 he had demanded,” she recalled. “The second time (that I was accosted) it was (by) three of them…”
She said a woman approached her during the second incident and similarly demanded $20, all while a male was seen observing just out of plain view.
“As I was speaking to her, I could see another man running across from the mission. On that note, I got into my car, locked the doors… and the three of them were giving me that friendly one-fnger wave.”
She noted that her ATM is secluded and said certain homeless individuals lurk in the area once the banks close.
“The bank has to be locked as there have been previous issues with the homeless making a mess inside. It’s unnerving to be accosted… I don’t know if they have weapons or not.”
Norma Lafonte said she’s sympathetic to the need to address homelessness and addictions, and suggested that the shelter should be close to downtown, but not within the core itself
“We care about our city’s future, otherwise we wouldn’t be here,” she said. “Talking with business owners and residents downtown and listening to their stories have only made it more obvious to me that we are at a crossroads in our city.
“As I was walking my dog early yesterday morning, I noticed every garbage can and recycling bin in the three blocks I walked had been gone through (during) the night.
“Some may not see this as an issue,” she continued, “but the problem is the absolutely disgusting mess that was left behind… for the home and business owners to clean up. Where’s the accountability?
“The (residents) and business owners that work hard to keep their homes, yards, and businesses clean and beautiful to make our city look amazing don’t deserve to have to pick up a mess left behind by others,” she said.
Lafonte noted that Souls Harbour is moving from its original request to build a three-storey, 22,750 square foot building with 24 portable housing units, addiction services, and a job skills training program to a simplifed 12 bed accommodation “and a dining room.”
“How many… currently on the streets will be allowed in the (new) shelter…? Many of them are actively using and do not meet the criteria for being able to access the services at the shelter,” she said.
She then pointed to similar shelter projects in Nanaimo, Lethbridge, Prince Albert, and Medicine Hat which she said have seemingly “made the problem worse by destroying the downtown of (these) cities.”
The solution, she suggested, is to focus on the creation of a wraparound recovery community and moving individuals in its care away from the pressures that could undo any positive advances made at the planned shelter.
Letters to the EDITOR
for MJ Express
RE CITY TOWN HALL MEETING
OF JULY 29, 2024
I am the same Vivian who a few weeks ago wrote the letter of concern when the location of Souls Harbour was put in jeopardy by a proposed petition from the Good Neighbours Group.
Just a few days ago, I attended the Council Meeting Town Hall on this issue. I was impressed with the number of citizens who attended and all who spoke voiced their opinions honestly. Unfortunately, citizens immediately involved – those that are unhoused or who may in the future use a shelter, could not register to speak because they had no fxed addresses. In other words, they do not have homes. So it was the privileged who spoke at this meeting.
Very soon, the absolute polarization of viewpoints among citizens who attended became very clear. I was thankful that many speakers pointed to this imbalance and articulated how our city is home for everyone and that everyone should be respected and cared for no
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: MOOSE JAW IS HOME. LET US MOVE FORWARD AS A COMMUNITY
Note: I was registered to speak at the Events Center meeting held on July 29th. I could not make it but this is what I would have said: Moose Jaw is my home even though I may be homeless.
Blessed and cursed, I am not alone, yet like a ghost, unnoticed.
Dead, for the most part, to the rest of society. Decidedly, why is helping others so divisive?
No matter where the shelter is placed, we know people won’t like it.
Because money does not like being reminded...*COUGH COUGH*
Excuse me, many do not like to be reminded
That it might get worse, even for those who only view us as a “minus”.
In other words: Negatively. Are we burdens or are we people?
Will we be a deterrent to business because money is the root of all...happiness, correct?
Yet, when the two intersect it’s like a rarity to inspect! Life is priceless, yes? Unless the price is a slight drop in profts, I guess?
And on this topic let’s make some progress and get honest, I bet that’s why they stress the worse while dismissing any positives.
I understand that the probabilities of success are not a give
But if we truly create our future, let’s use this as a step to move forward
To create a better world where helping others is normal. When we see those in need and don’t shun them or run from them
Guidelines for Submitting Letters to the Editor:
Due to space allotment in Moose Jaw Express for free letters to the editor, we fnd it necessary to establish some guidelines in submissions that will be in effect.
• All letters to the editor submitted to the Moose Jaw Express newspaper should not exceed 900 words. In this case, we reserve the right to edit them accordingly.
• Please do not write letters of personal attack or are condescending.
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matter who they are or what their histories have been. Both sides must come together around this theme of Moose Jaw being our home, which was fnely articulated by some. It will be easier for one side of the polarized viewpoints to come together than the other, I suspect. For example, more than once, particular speakers mentioned that ‘a sandwich and a bed’ is not a solution to the problem Moose Jaw faces. However, a sandwich is not just a sandwich; nor is a bed just a bed. It is offered with respect and kindness to those who are hungry and for those who may have nowhere to sleep and, more signifcantly, to those who may need the dignity of acknowledgement and relationship in that moment with someone who is not prejudiced against them.
A number of persons from one side of this polarized issue spoke of being uncomfortable and full of fear around those on the street and said many they knew are afraid to venture downtown. To me, this showed a lack of sensitivity to what may be under the surface appearance of anyone ––privileged or not––whom we
Here’s where I emancipate this debate and contextualize it historically so we can relate.
For the sake of argument let’s equate poverty to race And look back at what took place when segregation was the case,
In Canada, yeah, when a perverse mindset couldn’t be escaped.
What did those for it say? The very same words that I’m hearing today
By those who oppose these shelters, they would say, I quote, “Integrating them here will not make their lives any better,”
AND, “Businesses will be ruined, our community gone forever!”
AND, “We would not really mind it if it were done somewhere else,”
AND, “It will bring our property values down and who does that help?”
AND, “It will bring violence and chaos! Look at how they behave!!!
Let everyone be judged according to their deeds...BUT THESE PEOPLE ARE ALL THE SAME!”
Now think about what I just said, think about those quotes...
Are they from 1950 or from now? Sadly, the answer is both.
Some stated that, “It’s a diferent world now, postCOVID”
Seems like they didn’t notice that things only take a turn for the worst when all support closes!
Like we were afraid to catch something....ATCHOO! Poverty is a societal disease, not being poor. Distinguish between the battle and the war; the content and the form.
Retro Rainbow and Sweet Treat Candy Company are excellent examples
Of what happens when supports leave, downtown goes to shambles.
Mayor Clive Tolley visited both those places which were safe spaces, a true oasis,
In a landscape of angry faces and hatred because too many believe the unhoused are all wasted
And high as they walk by with their nose turned up high (Hi!)
each submission for verifcation.
• Only the name will be included in publication with the letter as the contributor.
• We Reserve The Right to Edit.
Send your letters to the editor to: joan@moosejawexpress.com
All columns, letters to the editor and editorials are solely the personal opinions of the writers themselves and not necessarily the opinions of The Moose Jaw Express
may encounter. Police Chief Bourassa presented data to show our city is doing very well compared with other cities on the crime index. I am sorry there is such fear from one group of citizens toward another group of citizens. Yes, we can move the unwell and unhoused away as is wanted by some. However, there always will be more unwell and unhoused. What is the source of this fear? I will not speculate.
May the needed “collaboration” that was spoken of by many be creative and useful for this complex problem and may the collaborations include those in our city who need help and who do use shelters and who have experience of being on the street. And may we remember that life takes many unexpected turns and who is not to say that any one of us in our city may not one day become unwell and unhoused.
Sincerely,
Vivian Darroch-Lozowski
Just another way of saying we’re better in this together
If we ever want to truly escape this lunacy!
Of cyclical misfortune and misunderstandings which will never be resolved ruthlessly!
What’s needed is compassion. What we need is forgiveness.
Not fngers pointed at each other yelling, “YOU DID THIS!”
What we need is the opposite of fear and have courage when problems do appear.
Here is my solution: We take it day-by-day.
As issues arise we’ll work in tandem to make them okay. No project is ever prefect but I think this one is certainly worth it.
I mean, its SOLE purpose is to help the needy... I can’t believe we even need this meeting this evening all because of a fear of the unknown...
It makes me wonder, if I were to ever become unhoused, would Moose Jaw still be my home?
If the answer is “No!” Where would you tell me to go?
To Hell? Well, wouldn’t that already be the existence I know?
So people can help or at the very least get out of the way
Of the helpers trying to help those trying to help themselves make it to the next day.
We’re at a veritable precipice we’re about to fall if we don’t get over this.
RICK MCKEOWN
With over 36 years of Experience in our Industry
Let’s face it, their basic premise is this:
Building this building will build new problems - so they
But building this building will build up our community. It will build hope in the hopeless and be a focus point
Don’t you know that hope persists while fear makes us jump over clifs!?!?
Frank Zappa said minds are like parachutes: they only work when open,
So I’m hoping moving ahead we don’t get closed in By those opposing a simple Rule that was said to be Golden.
However, what I’m beholding is not the case.
In case you missed the whole point of this poem, allow me to reiterate:
People are our neighbors even when they do not have a roof to call their own
Therefore let us be good to all our neighbors, regardless, because this City of Moose Jaw is not just a “city,” it’s home.
George Steven
With over 36 years of experience in our industry, Rick welcomes all past and future friends & clients to see him for all your promotional requirements!
Contact Rick for all your Promotional • Print • Signage Needs 468 High Street West • 306-694-1322
• Callaway
• Cutter & Buck and more...
Moose Jaw Ice pick up frst win at Softball Canada U19 Canadian Championship
Ice take 14-5 win over Southern Alberta before falling 7-0 to Smitty’s Terminators during round robin action Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Moose Jaw Ice put together a 1-2 record through their frst three games at the Softball Canada U19 Canadian Championship in Saskatoon last week.
After dropping their opener 10-1 to the Ontario champion Aurora Diggers, the Ice closed out the frst day of play on Wednesday, July 31 with a 14-5 win over Alberta’s Southern Revolution but couldn’t keep the momentum going, falling 7-0 to the Manitoba provincial champion Smitty’s Terminators in their frst game Thursday.
Aurora 10, Moose Jaw 1
The Diggers scored four runs in the third inning and another fve in the seventh to take a 10-1 victory as the Ice made their debut at the 21-team tournament.
Despite the lopsided fnal score, things were relatively close throughout the contest, as Moose Jaw trailed by four much of the game before Aurora put together their big fnal inning to pull away once and for all.
Ava Unser got the start in the circle for the Ice and allowed four runs on seven hits over three innings, walking three and striking out a pair. Katelyn Zukewich took over in the fourth and was bit by a handful of defensive miscues -- Moose Jaw had fve errors in the game -- and would allow six unearned runs on fve hits the rest of the way.
The Ice had eight hits, with Macy Litzenberger going 2-for-3. Rayelle Cooley scored their lone run in the ffth inning.
Tanya Limbani went 3-for-4 for the
Diggers with a double, run scored and two runs batted in, while Natasha Limbani, Logan Forman and Jacqueline Vona all crossed the plate twice.
Jayde McGahan started for Ontario and held Moose Jaw scoreless through four innings while scattering fve hits; Grace Churchill gave up the single run but allowed only three hits the rest of the way. Moose Jaw 14, Southern Alberta 5 It was as good a start as the Ice could have asked for in their second game of the day on July 31, as fve runs in the frst inning and four in second gave the local crew a quick 9-2 lead. They’d tack on two more in each of the third and fourth innings before invoking the mercy rule after scoring their fnal run in the ffth.
Alexa Edmands led the way at the plate with a 2-for-2 showing that included
a double, two runs scored and four runs batted in while Cooley was 2-for-3 with two runs scored and two RBI. Makena Simmons scored four runs despite not getting a hit, while Zukewich and Litzenberger also crossed the plate twice each.
While Moose Jaw had only seven hits, control issues plagued the Southern Alberta pitchers as they gave up 12 walks in the contest.
Katie Newberry got the start for Moose Jaw and allowed two runs, one earned, in two innings of work before giving way to Jamison Langlois, who gave up three runs, one earned, on four hits over the next two innings. Zukewich then closed things out with a scoreless ffth.
Ava Fougere led Alberta’s offence with a pair of runs scored and two RBI.
Macy Pickett started for the Revolu-
tion and allowed four runs while getting a single out in the frst inning. Jada Kezema took over and went the rest of the way, giving up nine runs, fve earned, on three hits and 10 walks.
Smitty’s 7, Moose Jaw 0
The Ice ran into Team Canada pitcher Danika Nell in their frst contest Thursday, and it’s safe to say she had a pretty decent game in the circle.
Nell struck out 13 of the 15 Moose Jaw batters she faced through the fve-inning contest and would fnish with a perfect game when the mercy rule brought things to an early end.
Only two Ice batters made meaningful contact -- Litzenbeger on a ground out to short in the frst and Edmands on a pop fy to Neil in the ffth.
The Terminators did all their damage in two innings, scoring four runs in the second and another three in the ffth, fnishing with nine hits total.
Janaya Watt led the Smitty’s offence with a 2-for-4 game that included a run scored and three runs batted in, while Laura Ransome was 2-for-3 and also crossed the plate.
Ava Unser got the start for Moose Jaw and allowed four runs on six hits over four innings of work; Zukewich gave up three runs on three hits in the ffth.
The Ice were back on the feld late Thursday against the B.C. Cloverdale Fury before taking on Vaughn, Ont. Vikings and Fraser Valley, B.C. Fusion in their fnal two round robin games Friday.
Moose Jaw’s Zheng turns in solid showing at Canadian Swimming Championship
Kinsmen Flying Fins competitor picks up handful of wins in S6 para division during national championship event
Moose Jaw’s Leo Zheng picked up a handful of frst-place fnishes at the Speedo Canadian Swimming Championship in Toronto this past week, continuing what has been a stellar season for the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Flying Fins competitor.
Competing in the Para swimming S6 division, Zheng posted the top fnish in three of his six races while duelling Marian Barbu from St-Eustache, Que.
Zheng, 17, put together his best showing of the meet in his fnal event, touching the wall in 1:30.06 in the 100m backstroke to record 605 points and fnish fourth out
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Moose Jaw Kinsmen Flying Fins competitor Leo Zheng competed at the 2024 Canadian
Championship in Toronto this past week.
of all swimmers. Para events at nationals featured different classes in the pool together, making Zheng’s fourth-overall fnish even more impressive.
Zheng also took frst place in S6 in the 400m freestyle, with his time of 6:18.74 good enough for 571 points and 10th overall, while his 200m individual medley time of 3:49.43 also bested Barbu with 410 points, 15th overall.
Zheng was also second in the 100m breast (2:01.62, 355 points, 15th overall), 50m free (37.37, 566 points, 17th overall) and 100m free (1:23.93, 529 points, 21st overall).
Barbu had an outstanding showing in the 100m free, touching the wall in 1:15.58 to set a new national record in the S6 class. Zheng himself is the Canadian Para swimming record holder in the 400m individual medley, having set the national mark of 8:44.19 at the Michelle Moore Invitational in Regina during the May 10 weekend.
Zheng also lit up the pool at the Man Sask Championship last month, winning seven gold medalist and the Philip Clark Award as the top male para swimmer.
Summer Showcase
Warriors standout picks up assist as Canada falls 3-2 in fnal game for World Junior vets
Brayden Yager and Canada Red skated to a 3-2 shootout loss to Sweden in Windsor, Ont. on Wednesday night.
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The Moose Jaw Warriors forward picked up an assist on Canada’s frst goal by Carson Rehkopf midway through the second period, which tied the game 1-1. Sweden took a 2-1 lead early in the third, but Rehkopf’s second of the game with 1:47 to go tied the game back up.
The two sides went to a shootout with Canada missing on its four attempts, including one by Yager, to fall to Sweden.
Yager, along with fellow returnees from last year’s World Junior team — Rehkopf, Easton Cowan, Matthew Wood,
Oliver Bonk and Tanner Molendyk — will now head home from the camp. The rest of Team Canada will travel to Plymouth, Mich. to face off with Finland on Friday and the United States on Saturday.
The Moose Jaw U19A Ice were in action at the Softball Canada U19 national championship in Saskatoon this past week.
Swimming
Pitchers Albers, Molleken join umpire Scheurwater as inductees into Sask Baseball Hall of Fame
Total of 13 individuals and teams to be enshrined during induction banquet on Aug. 17 in Battleford
The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Battleford recently announced its induction class for 2024, and if you’ve been a fan of Major League Baseball over the last decade, you’ll most certainly recognize the three headline inductees.
Leading the class of 13 during the ceremony on Aug. 17 in Battleford will be North Battleford pitcher Andrew Albers, Regina pitcher Dustin Molleken and Regina umpire Stu Scherwater, all of whom have recently played or are currently in action with MLB.
Joining the trio as inductees are Eugene “Buck” Gerbig of Maidstone, Regan L’Heureux of Unity, Harry Luhning of Lumsden, Norman McInnis of Saskatoon, Rodney Pelaniuk of Regina, Sever Rose of Turtleford, Larry Schrader of Regina, Lee Taves of Mervin, Stacy Walker of Lloydminster and Team Saskatchewan from 1994 Canada Cup.
Andrew Albers
Albers, 38, grew up in North Battleford and played his entire standout minor baseball career in the city, eventually being selected in the 12th round, 134th overall by the Milwaukee Brewers.
After opting not to sign with his frst MLB club, Albers suited up for the NCAA Division I University of Kentucky, where he pitched 81 games, recorded 20 wins and 12 saves, ranking in the top fve in Wildcats history in all three categories.
The San Diego Padres selected Albers in the 10th round, 315th overall in the 2008 MLB Draft, kicking off a long journey through professional baseball.
After receiving Tommy John surgery in 2008 and being released by the Padres, Albers pitched with the Quebec Capitals in the Can Am Association in 2010 campaign, racking up 17 saves and a 1.40 ERA. That led to him being signed by the Minnesota Twins out of spring training in 2011, beginning his pro career in earnest.
After moving up to AA ball that season, Albers joined Team Canada for the Baseball World Cup, going on to win the bronze medal and subsequently being named Saskatchewan’s male athlete of the year in 2012.
Albers lit up the AAA International League the following season, posting a 2.86 ERA and recording 116 strikeouts, leading to his Major League debut with the Twins on Aug. 6, 2013 -- and what a debut it was, as Albers went 8 ⅓ scoreless innings while giving up four hits against Kansas City. His next start was even better, as he tossed a complete game shutout, taking a 3-0 win over Cleveland while allowing just two hits.
After posting a 6-13 record with a 5.89 ERA that season, Albers was released and played the following season in the Korea Baseball Organization before signing a minor-league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2014. He played one game for Toronto in the 2014 campaign and later signed a minor league deal with Minnesota in 2016.
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Albers bounced around the minors from there and played two seasons in Japan before joining Team Canada for the World Baseball Classic in 2023.
Albers retired as an active player following the 2023 season and is now a coach with the Saskatoon Berries of the Western Canadian Baseball League.
All told, Albers spent fve seasons in Major League Baseball with three teams, recording an 8-8 record and 4.58 earned run average, striking out 91 and putting together 1.38 walks and hits per inning pitched.
Dustin Molleken
Molleken, 39, was born in Regina and played minor baseball in the Queen City throughout his youth. A solid run in 18U AAA led to Molleken being drafted in the 15th round, 435th overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2003, kicking off a seven year career that saw him reach the AA ranks before declaring free agency in 2010.
That led to Molleken being signed to a minor-league deal by the Colorado Rockies, where he spent two seasons in AAA and AA before being given his release to play in Japan in 2011.
That same year, Molleken pitched for Team Canada at the World Baseball Classic alongside Albers and helped them to a bronze medal.
Molleken signed with the Milwaukee Brewers for the 2013 season and was a spring training invite before spending the campaign in AAA Nashville. He spent the following year in the Cleveland Indians organization, again pitching at the AAA level and recording a 3.25 ERA in 40 appearances.
That led to the best season of his career in 2016. Molleken signed a minor-league deal with the Detroit Tigers for the 2015 season, and after a solid showing in AAA, was called up to the Tigers and made his MLB debut on July 4, 2016. All told, Molleken would make four appearances for Detroit, recording a 4.32 ERA.
After being released following the 2017 season, Molleken played three seasons of professional ball before retiring
following the 2020 season.
Molleken is now a pitching coach with the Moose Jaw Miller Express of the Western Canadian Baseball League.
Stu Scheurwater
Scheurwater, 41, got his start behind the plate as an umpire in Regina when he was only 11 years old, beginning what would become an impressive career as an on-feld offcial.
Scheurwater attended clinics and quickly advanced in the provincial umpiring levels, working numerous provincial tournament including the Saskatchewan Summer Games. It all led to Schuerwater catching on with Baseball Canada’s national program, with whom he’d work his frst national tournament at the 2005 Canada Cup in Medicine Hat.
After attending the elite Harry Wendelstedt Umpire School in Daytona Beach, Fla. Scheurwater joined the ranks of professional baseball in 2007 and began working in the minor leagues in the Arizona League, where he’d hone his calls until the 2013 season.
That’s when Major League Baseball came calling, with Scheurwater frst assigned to spring training in 2013 and then appearing in 268 games as a call-up
Schuerwater was hired as full-time MLB umpire in 2018 and continued to work games -- including a host of special assignments in 2023 that included the All Star Game, League Championship Series and World Baseball Classic.
Norm McInnis, Builder McInnis coached Regina Red Sox for seven years and was president for six years. He was with the Saskatchewan Baseball Association for six years and was executive director of the Canadian Federation of Amateur Baseball for four years and was a director for Sask. Sport for seven years.
Larry Luhning, Player/Builder Luhning played with many teams throughout the years, but mostly with the Lumsden Cubs. As a player, Luhning was
on two Canadian Masters championship teams, two Western Canadian championship teams and 10 provincial championship teams and earned six league championships. Luhning served 19 years as a coach to his son and daughter on league, provincial, Western and Canadian championship teams.
In 1992, Luhning was a member of the Lumsden Cubs, the Senior Team of the Year. He was a director of Zone 5, Sask Baseball from 2003-17.
Larry Schrader, Umpire Schrader had a long and distinguished career as a baseball umpire since 1971. A wide range of experiences included more than 25 provincial age group championships and two international championships. In 1994 he umpired for the North Central Baseball League and 1995-96 for the Prairie League of Professional Baseball.
Regan L’Heureux, Player/Builder
As a catcher and player/coach, L’Heureux was instrumental and successful in getting the Unity Senior Cardinals back on the feld in 2003. Under his leadership, they hosted senior provincials in 2008 and again in 2013 when they lost to the Wilkie Brewers in the fnal game.
L’Heureux was committed to the programs and kept building the game of baseball in Unity.
As president of the Unity Minor Baseball for more than fve years, he was successful in getting batter cages and mounds for the ball diamonds and an indoor batting cage. He played senior baseball for the Unity senior team for 11 years, winning the 2013 Senior A1 Championship.
L’Heureux is also a certifed umpire. He was named Canada’s 2022 Volunteer of the Year.
Eugene “Buck” Gerbig, Player/ Builder
Gerbig was born into a ball family. His father, Lloyd, lived, loved, played and coached baseball teams for many years. The family would play ball for hours. After seeding all day, Lloyd would his sons outside and hit fy balls and grounders.
Buck became a pitcher for the Standard Hill Lakers. A diamond was built north of the Gully Bridge, only one mile from home, then later at Silver Lake, changing their name from Standard Hill Pats to Standard Hill Lakers. The team played many games and tournaments at Lloydminster, Hillmond, North Bend, Turtleford, St. Walburg, Rabbit Lake, Paradise Hill, Two Hills, Provost and Dewberry, bringing home ‘the money’ from the majority of them.
Gerbig coached minor ball from Mosquito through Senior. He was the builder of the Standard Hill Laker Baseball organization.
Rodney Palaniuk, Builder
Rodney Palaniuk is the current president of the Regina Optimist Baseball Association. He has served in this capacity for more than 28 years along with coaching. He was also president of the Regina Optimist Baseball Association/Park for 19 years. Palaniuk served on the board in various capacities for 25 years, hosting many major Saskatchewan Baseball midget and junior championships and national championships and Baseball Canada Cup. His work contributed to dramatically improved facilities in Regina Optimist Park.
He was supportive of Qu’Appelle Valley Senior League. Palaniuk eceived the 2015 Joe McDonald Special Award of Merit and the 2021 National Outstanding Volunteer Award for National Philanthropy.
Pitchers Albers, Molleken join umpire Scheurwater as inductees into Sask Baseball Hall of Fame, con’t
Sever Rose, Player
Sever Rose joined his frst baseball team in Mervin in 1977. In 1978 he pitched for the Fairholme Mosquito team, which had a winning record. Sever’s ability to pitch, hit and catch garnered him his frst of numerous most valuable player awards. He was picked up by many teams to join them in their quest for provincial Beaver championship titles.
Sever was invited to the Cincinnati Reds tryout camp in Regina. Joining the North Battleford Midget “A” for the Western Canadian Baseball Congress in Brandon, Man., Sever won the tournament MVP award.
In 1987, Sever again was a member of Team Saskatchewan. In 1989-90, he played with North Battleford Beavers. In 1993 played with the Mervin Flyers, winning the North Saskatchewan River Baseball League title. Sever continued to play in that league for the next 20 years then as an “old timer” with Provost, Alta. playing fve to six tournaments yearly, often taking the mound.
Sever brought skill and determination and led by example. He was most proud of his time playing with Team Saskatchewan. Stacey Walker, Player/Builder Walker grew up in Colonsay. His
grandfather, Johnny Folk, played for the Colonsay Monarchs. Players would come from the United States to play semi-pro baseball in Saskatchewan. Walker moved to Lloydminster in 1995 and joined the Lloydminster Meridian Twins as the centrefelder. He soon became head coach and manager. In 2000 Walker led his team to their frst North Saskatchewan River Baseball League title, the frst Lloydminster men’s team to win a championship in 50 years.
Under Walker’s leadership as player/coach the Twins won the title in 2002, 2003 and 2004. Walker remained as centrefeld through the 2007 season then for the next decade helped the team in any way he could until he again joined the Meridians in 2017. He started centrefelder for the Twins at the provincial championships in Unity.
Walker had speed, caused havoc on the basepaths and was among the league leaders in stolen bases, stealing home on several occasions. His teammates voted him to represent the Twins at the NSRBL All-star game multiple times.
In 2004, Walker started coaching his sons, and from 2008 to 2012 Stacy helped guide their team to six provincial championship titles. They represented Saskatche-
wan at nationals in 2012. In 2010, Walker also made time to help the Cadogan Nighthawks win the 35+ Division at the Canadian National Oldtimer Championships as their centrefelder.
Walker resides in Calgary and remains an avid baseball fan.
Lee Taves, Player/Builder
Lee Taves attended Turtleford High School. His love of baseball started at an early age, following his dad’s [Bob Taves’] footsteps, displaying an impressive talent and array of skills. In 1974 he joined the Mervin Flyers baseball team, the start-up year of the North Saskatchewan Baseball League. Mervin joined the league. This was the frst of 25 years that Taves would put on the Mervin Flyers uniform and run out to centrefeld.
Taves was respected for his ability to run down the ball and get the out. He was a role model for his teammates as he posted impressive stats in all categories. In 1984 he had a batting average of.447 in 46 atbats. The magnitude of his bat propelled the Mervin Flyers to win the 1993 NSRBL championship. Taves’ dream to play with his sons Ryan and Trevor, with the Flyers, came true from 1995-98.
After playing 25 years, Taves took over coaching the Flyers and was an inte-
gral part of the provincial teams that were contenders in the Provincial Intermediate “C” and “D” divisions throughout the years.
Taves joined the Mervin Flyers Twilight [35 and over] and played another 15 years. At the 2000 Provincial Midget “A2” tournament in Mervin, Taves was honoured for his contribution and immeasurable impact on the development of youth through sport in the community. Baseball lost a beloved member of its community, but his legacy lives on through his children and grandchildren in the love of the game of baseball he instilled in them. Lee passed away after a battle with ALS [Lou Gehrig’s Disease] Aug. 15, 2022 at the age of 66 years.
Team Category
Team Saskatchewan Midget 1994 Provincial Champions
The 2019 season marks the 25th anniversary of Team Saskatchewan Midgets winning gold at the Canada Cup held in Moncton, N.B. Team Saskatchewan played Team Quebec in the fnal, with Craig Flanagan pitching, winning 9- 8. Many players from this team have been inducted into the individual category.
Trio of Moose Jaw athletes set to compete at Legion Canadian Track and Field championship
Provincial standouts Adewumi, Anderson, Roney to compete for national titles in Calgary Aug. 9-11
A season flled with success in track and feld is about to come to a national championship conclusion for a trio of Moose Jaw Rotary Track Club athletes.
Central’s Zayden Anderson, Cornerstone Christian School’s Ademide Adewumi and Vanier’s Hailey Roney will all be in action during the Legion Canadian Track and Field Championship from Aug. 9-11 in Calgary.
Adewumi could be medal favourite in both the shot put and discus after winning bronze in the shot put in the Under-16 age class last year, but moving up to the U18 division will make the competition that much tougher.
Adewumi, 16, currently has the seventh-best U18 women’s shot put mark in Canada for the 2024 season, having put together a 13.10 effort at the Western Canada Team Challenge in mid-July. Her discus mark of 35.47 metres -- set at the Sask
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Outdoor Championship in June -- is eighth best in the nation.
Most recently, Adewumi picked up a pair of gold medal in the Saskatchewan Summer Games with a 12.75m effort in the shot put and 33.65 metres in the discus.
Anderson, 17, has put together a dominant season in the 110m hurdles provincially and will compete in that event as well as the 100m and the relays.
Anderson’s 16.69 in the 110m hurdles heats at the Saskatchewan Summer Games just over a week ago gives him the 63rd best time in Canada in the discipline for the U18 division. He also took top spot in the junior boys 100m hurdles at the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association provincials, crossing the line in 14.09.
Roney, 15, will see action in the U16 girls high jump at nationals after a solid
season of her own provincially. Roney picked up a bronze medal with a jump of 1.40 metres at the Sask Summer Games and just missed doing the same at the SHSAA intermediate division at provincials, where she fnished fourth by countback after clearing 1.45 metres.
Team Saskatchewan is flled with athletes who had success at the Sask Games, including Swift Current triple-gold medalist sprinter and jumper Kyler Duclos and Dilke middle-distance double-gold medalist Haillee Woodhouse. Duclos will compete in the U16 division, Woodhouse in the U18.
Team Saskatchewan was selected during the Sask Legion Camp in Regina at the beginning of July.
Results from Legion
nationals can be found at www.legion.ca by clicking the Communities and Youth tab and be sure to keep an eye on www. moosejawtoday.com for updates.
Moose Jaw’s Ademide Adewumi will look to contend for a medal at the Canadian Legion track and feld championship beginning Aug. 9 in Calgary.
Moose Jaw’s Zayden Anderson -- here on his way to winning gold at the Saskatchewan Summer Games -- will look to contend for a medal at the Canadian Legion Track and Field Championship next week. Brenda Mitchell
Roadtrippin’: Umpiring a four-hour baseball game when ya gotta pee ain’t easy
The seventh inning of the boys’ bronze medal baseball game at the Saskatchewan Summer Games had just fnished in a tie, meaning the game was going into extra innings — which, unfortunately, posed a problem because I had to pee badly.
That pressure in the bladder started to build sometime in the sixth inning, likely because I had been drinking more water between innings than necessary. It was an honest mistake, as I had expected hot temperatures for the Games — and instead, it was cold, windy and rainy.
That weather made umpiring somewhat diffcult because the wind and rain were blowing from the west — right into my face as the frst base umpire. When I was stationed beside frst base, I need-
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
ed miniature wipers to clean my glasses; when I was positioned near second base, the wind caused one eye to shut.
As you can imagine, umpiring a baseball game with one eye closed is hazardous to one’s health since a guy needs to be watching for line drives.
Several times, I had to borrow a rag from a team to clean my glasses. This cloth was meant for pitchers to dry their hands, but I had no problem using it for my glasses — I mean, it’s not like I was going to lick them afterward or anything.
That cold and rain also made it tough to concentrate going into the eighth inning because of their effect on that bladder issue … .
Normally, it would be easy to ignore
the urges of nature by the seventh inning since most minor ball games fnish by then and are done after 90 to 120 minutes. However, this was the Saskatchewan Summer Games and these were some of the best ball players in the province — and they were talented enough to just keep hitting the ball.
The game’s frst three innings took one hour and 40 minutes to complete, while the score was 12-11 at the start of the fourth inning. A combination of things like tired pitchers walking guys and guys connecting with the ball — and maybe the home plate umpire’s strike zone — contributed to the game’s score and length.
Both teams scored more runs in the fourth and ffth innings, but the hit parade quieted down in the sixth and seventh innings, which led to a tie game and more innings.
I’m positive that it was close to noon — we started at 9 a.m. — when we reached the eighth inning, which meant we had been playing for three hours. Neither side scored in that inning, but the bats came alive in the ninth and the teams put up nearly 10 runs.
The game ended in the 10th inning after the visitors struck out, grounded out and struck out again, leading the home team to earn the 20-19 win and the bronze medal.
At exactly 1 p.m. — four hours after we started — my crew and I walked off the diamond as the feld maintenance team began preparing for the gold medal game that should have started at noon.
I can now say I have umpired a Major League Baseball-length game and can add that to my sports resumé.
As for that pesky problem of needing to pee, I had asked my plate umpire if I could run to the biffy at the bottom of the seventh, but he said there wasn’t time.
Once the eighth inning concluded with no scoring, I indicated to him that I was going and sprinted like Donovan Bailey to the nearest portable toilet — and boy, what a relief it was to empty the tank. I then raced back to the diamond like Andre De Grasse and continued working.
Jason G. Antonio, a reporter with the Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday. com, was one of 12 umpires from across the province who participated in the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games.
Photo submitted
The bronze medal-winning team poses with their medals after the game. Photo courtesy Sask. Summer Games Baseball action from
Games. Photo courtesy Facebook
Moose Jaw Ice split frst two games at U13 Western Canadian Softball Championship
Local squad open tournament with 10-0 win over Tri-City Titans, drop 8-1 decision to Ridge Meadows Pride at inaugural event in Brandon
It was a bit of the good and a bit of the bad for the Moose Jaw Ice through their frst two games at the U13 Western Canadian Softball Championship in Brandon.
The Ice got off to a great start with a 10-0 win over the B.C.’s Tri-City Titans on Thursday morning before dropping an 8-1 decision to the B.C.’s Ridge Meadows Pride on Thursday afternoon, giving the local squad a 1-1 record after the frst day of competition.
The Western Canadian U13 tournament is being played for the frst time in the Wheat City, featuring nine teams from Saskatchewan, Alberta and B.C. Moose Jaw 10, Tri-City 0 Things didn’t take long in the opening game for the Ice, as they scored one in the frst, four in the second and fve more in the third to invoke the mercy rule after three innings.
Evelyn Stokes led the way for Moose Jaw at the plate, going 2-for-2 with a double, triple and four runs batted in. Riley Ziffe took advantage of two walks and a hit to score three runs, while Kamdyn Chute crossed the plate twice. Ava Waldenberger-Evans had hits in both of her trips to the plate and scored a run.
Lily Kwasnicki started in the circle and turned in a solid performance, allowing a single hit and striking out eight over the four innings.
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Lead-off hitter Karis Fulmer had the lone hit for Tri-City and was one of only four baserunners they had in the game.
Scarlett Irving was the starting pitcher for the Titans and allowed fve runs on fve hits in two innings, Zoe Malcolm gave up two hits in an inning of relief.
Ridge Meadows 8, Moose Jaw 1
The two teams ended up in a pitching duel early, as both Moose Jaw starter Ziffe and Ridge Meadows’ Rylee Christie held the opposition scoreless through the frst two innings.
The Pride got things going off reliev-
er Kaleigh Winslow in the third, though, scoring three runs in the inning and adding another two in the fourth. Ziffe returned to the mound in the ffth but was unable to shut Ridge Meadows down, with the Pride putting up another three runs to invoke the mercy rule.
All told, Ziffe would allow three runs on four hits over 2 ⅔, Winslow fve runs on six hits over two innings.
Moose Jaw scored their lone run in the ffth when Chloe Beliveau hit a leadoff single and eventually came around to score on a base hit by Ziffe.
Christie ended up allowing only two hits over four innings of work while striking out nine to earn the win; Maddy Domaas pitched the ffth and gave up the lone Moose Jaw run.
Devyn Botero led the Ridge Meadows offence with a 3-for-4 game that included a pair of runs scored and two runs batted in.
Round robin play for the Ice continued Friday against B.C’s Langley XTreme and Manitoba’s Interlake Phillies before wrapping up Saturday against Manitoba’s Eastman Wildcats and the host Westman Magic.
The top four teams after tiebreakers advanced to the semifnals Sunday morning, with the gold medal game Sunday afternoon.
Miller Express fall to Saskatoon to remain in fourth place in WCBL East Division
Berries take 5-3 win over Moose Jaw in Saskatoon as regular season heads into fnal weekend
The Moose Jaw Miller Express had a chance to move into a tie for third place in the Western Canadian Baseball League’s East Division last Wednesday night, but a loss to the Saskatoon Berries saw them lose ground instead.
The Berries took a 5-0 lead out of the fourth inning and held on for a 5-3 victory over the Express in Saskatoon, moving two games up on Moose Jaw for third place in the East.
The Express dropped a game below .500 with the loss and are now 25-26 on the season, while Saskatoon is now 26-24. Thanks to a four-game winning streak, the Medicine Hat Mavericks have pulled away in second place and will likely fnish there, while the Regina Red Sox have a 3 ½ game lead on Medicine Hat at the top of the division.
In one other game early last week, the Regina Red Sox took a 17-13 win over the Express at Ross Wells Park.
Saskatoon got a great start on the mound from Michael Singleton and made the most of it. Singleton held the Express scoreless while scattering six hits over 5 ⅓ innings, and by the time he left the game, he had a comfortable lead thanks to a three-run frst inning and two more runs in the ffth.
Moose Jaw got things going against Jacob Hadden in seventh, scoring three runs on two hits, but Hadden would escape without any further damage. Cory Lawson then clinched the win with a scoreless ninth.
Matt Vasquez got the start for the Miller Express and allowed fve runs on seven hits over six innings, striking out fve. Drew Sorrentino gave up a single hit in the seventh and Jacob Canelli struck out the side in the eighth.
Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
Nate Mensik hit two home runs in Moose Jaw’s
The two teams had only eight hits apiece, with all of Moose Jaw’s offence coming on one swing of the bat. Ryan Gouldin hit a three-run home run to score Nate Mensik and Elijah Bear with the Express’ only runs of the night in the seventh.
Gouldin was 2-for-4 and the only Moose Jaw player with more than one hit.
Bailyn Sorenson led Saskatoon with a three-run home run in the frst before capping the night 3-for-4 with two runs scored and three runs batted in.
Regina 17, Moose Jaw 13
As one might expect from a game that put 30 runs on the board, there were plenty of freworks -- Regina hit no less than fve home runs on the night and the Express weren’t too far behind with four of their own.
Mensik led the way for Moose Jaw
on Wednesday, July 31.
with a 3-for-6 night that included a threerun home run in the eighth inning and tworun shot in the ninth. Joe Osborn hit a solo round tripper to lead off the seventh, and Marcerio Allen hit a two-run homer -- his frst with the Express -- in the eighth.
Danny Gonzalez put together a 3-for-
4 showing with a home run, three runs scored and three RBI, while Justin Carinci, Jalen Meyers, Kody Hanna and Jackson Romero each had round trippers of their own. Carinci capped his night by going 4-for-6 at the plate with two runs and three RBI.
Declan O’Hare started on the mound for the Express and allowed fve runs on seven hits over four innings. Cameron Dunn pitched the ffth and allowed a run before Aaron Knuutilla gave up six runs on seven hits over the next three innings. Takeo Cookson attempted to shut things down in the ninth but was bit by an untimely error and ended up allowing fve unearned runs while getting two outs; Julian Gonzalez fnished things off.
Kade Douglas gave up six runs on 11 hits over 6 ⅔ for Regina, Zander Oudie-Senger only picked up two outs in the eighth while giving up fve runs and Ty Fortin earned the save despite giving up two runs in the ninth.
It was a busy long weekend for the Express as they closed out their regular season, as they hosted Saskatoon Thursday, Weyburn Friday and Saturday, travelled to Swift Current Sunday and fnished off the campaign Monday in Saskatoon.
Lynbrook Golf Course sees another hole-in-one on August 1, 2024
Submitted
Congratulations to Fred Tremblay who scored a hole-in-one on Thursday, August 1 at the Lynbrook Golf Course. He used his driver from the red tee box on Hole #8 to accomplish the feat. The shot was witnessed by Al Davey.
The Moose Jaw Ice are currently in action at the U13 Western Canadian Softball Championship in Brandon.
loss to Regina
WORDSEARCH
Can you fnd the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
59. Ancient Roman magistrate 60. Found on rotary phones 61. G G G 62. Discourage 63. Pretentious DOWN 1. Jargon 2. Work hard 3. Battery terminal 4. Jewel 5. Any malignant growth
Honor 7. Restrain 8. Brewery
“I agree”
Ravel classic 11. Impossible to hear 12. Garb 13. Being 18. Put out 22. Absorbed
24. Unit of land
26. Coastal raptor
28. Cherish
29. Oceans
30. They come from hens
31. Blackthorn
32. Anthracite
33. Pleasant
34. Area of the burial plot
37. In the center of
38. Wingless bloodsucking insect
40. “Smallest” particle
41. Young lady
43. A crucial stage
44. Not shorter
46. Army brass instrument
47. Low point
48. Swindle
49. Not late
50. Drink quickly
51. Racing sled
53. Make a sweater
56. Crimson
57. American Dental Association
Moose Jaw Truck Shop
WANTED
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
MISCELLANEOUS
Sears 10” Direct Drive Band Saw model #113.244513C asking $110.00. Delta 10”
Compound Miter Saw model #36-075C Asking $125.00. Aproximately 75 dolls, assorted sizes, most are of different countries, asking $200. Call 306-693-3129.
For Sale, Sunset Cemetery Last Supper Cremation Plot #2, Asking $1600.00 Call 306-6932003
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 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
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.
Open Farm Days happens this weekend
Almost 45 farms and ag-related operations across the province have signed up for Saskatchewan’s frst ever Open Farm Days this weekend, Aug 10 and 11.
Visitors are encouraged to visit these farms on the weekend to tour them and access on-farm products from vegetables to meat honey and even meals
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Not many of the Moose Jaw region farms have signed up.
The nearest is the Prairie Bee Meadery near Caron, displaying and selling more than a dozen varieties of mead made from honey and offering educational bee tours
In Moose Jaw the Western Development Museum offers an experience making butter the way pioneers did 100 years ago on Saturday and on Sunday how to make ice cream the pioneer way.
Both days have a milking Bessie program with a steam traction engine on Saturday.
Near McCord in the South Country, Gavelin Farms is open on the weekend. The farm raises Red Angus beef cattle and grows grain. Meat should be on sale.
West of McCord near Mankota, Hi Horse Adventures offers a free experience horseback riding grooming and handling.
Near Hodgeville, southwest of Moose Jaw, the Hodgeville Hutterite Colony will showcase farming operations with free tours of the orchard, vegetable garden and a guided dairy barn tour on Saturday only
In Lumdsen and region two operators have signed up.
Over the Hill Orchard and Winery has liquor products and food to sell.
The nearby J & J White Farm is an organic operation with cattle, hogs, horse, sheep, goats, a donkey, hens, geese and bees.
Visitors can book ahead by going to the website skopenfarmdays. ca.
George Custer – The Sioux, American Politics and the 100th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Canadians have been treated to endless news of the shenanigans in American politics.
Nothing new. Just like June 1876, the 100th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
The spring and early summer of 1876 was a tumultuous time.
Democratic President Ulysses S. Grant was fnishing his second term and had no stomach for more of the same. Challenges, corruption and back stabbing seemed to be the order of the day and Grant was stepping down at the end of his second term.
This opened the possibility that the June 27-29, 1876 Democratic Convention in St. Louis would nominate a new, self-centred, arrogant man named George
Armstrong Custer.
By Richard Dowson
As Historian H.W. Brands writes, “Custer had a following on his own. Members of Congress would invite him to come speak and he would persuade them. In some ways, he had political clout that Grant and Sherman didn’t. They outranked him but Custer had a following.”
There was no clear front runner to replace Grant. Lieutenant Colonel Custer believed that if he had one major victory against the Indigenous People of the West, he would be nominated ‘from the foor’.
On June 26, 1876 hubris blinded Custer. Without proper reconnoitring or understanding his adversary, Custer led his troops blindly into the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Visions of a Presidential nomination probably shaped his battle
plan.
The Lakota (Sioux), Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho had a different vision of Custer’s presidential aspirations and ended them at the Battle of the Little Big Horn. Lieutenant Colonel Custer and his 7th Cavalry were all killed.
Many of the Sioux (Lakota) who fought Custer moved on and settled in the Wood Mountain area that would later become Saskatchewan.
As a sad postscript, the November 1876 U.S. election had no clear winner. It took months to resolve. On March 2, 1877 there was a compromise. Democrat Rutherford B. Hayes was named the 19th President. He had agreed to serve one term. MJ Story Custer and American Politics 20240604 01
Obituaries / Memorials
NEWANS, GORDON
Gord Newans passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Friday, July 12th, 2024, at the age of 79. Gord is survived by wife Dixie; sons Ron (Shonna) and Bob (Robin); daughter Penny (Chad); grandchildren, Jesse, Kass, Meagan, Ben, Tanner, Brennan, Paige, Jett, Savannah and Spencer; 10 great-grandchildren; brother Ken; and sisters Darlene and Bev.
Gord retired a member of International Association of Iron Workers, Local 771 in 2000. Gord was a worker, something he instilled in us all and a gift we will be forever grateful for.
A private family gathering was held on Sunday, July 14th per Gordon’s request.
The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to the ICU staff at Dr. F. H. Wigmore Regional Hospital and the CSU staff at Regina General Hospital for the care they provided during Gord’s fnal days.
Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan to help your community for generations to come.
Please contact us for more information Moose Jaw Health Foundation 55 Diefenbaker Drive Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2 Phone (306) 694-0373 www mjhf.org
TRINITY UNITED CHURCH
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.
Sanctimonious
Some people suspect all religious leaders of sanctimonious preaching. On one hand I agree with this sentiment, while on the other hand I believe it is patently false.
Sanctimonious means hypocritically pious or devout. Those spouting a strict moralist code are often sanctimonious censors as they too have their own moral failures and issues to deal with in life, often trying to keep them hidden from public view. When their sins come to light it often justifes their sanctimonious description.
Sanctimonious comes from the Latin word sanctimonia, meaning holiness. In the early 1600s, when sanctimonious entered the English language, it was used to describe someone who is truly holy or pious. Of all the bishops in the country, the archbishop was truly a sanctimonious leader. The local councilman, who acted as judge for the ward, was considered a sanctimonious man, as he fairly considered all circumstances before issuing a ruling.
However, it was not long before sanctimonious developed an opposite connotation. William Shakespeare (1564-1616) used both senses of the word. In The Tempest Shakespeare refers to the sanctimonious ceremonies of marriage, implying the rites are a holy, sacred ritual. In Measure for Measure he writes, “Thou concludest like the sanctimonious pirate, that went to sea with the Ten Commandments, but scraped one out of the table.” In this instance Shakespeare implies the pirate has a ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude, as he seemed to have viewed the commandment on stealing inconvenient to follow while
promoting the Ten Commandments as a moral code by which to live.
Today sanctimonious is used only in the hypocritical sense. We do not need sanctimonious political leaders to decide what is best for us. Fairytales were always a bit of a scam, enticing us with happy endings to accept their sanctimonious morality. Jordan›s childhood chum, Bobby, is a sanctimonious prude who likes to lecture Jordan about how he should live his life.
Sanctimoniousness has often been associated with religious preachers. In fact, a synonym of the word is ‘churchy.’ The dictionary defnes churchy as marked by strict conformity or zealous adherence to the forms or beliefs of a church. However, if someone uses the term, it usually implies a negative connotation of preachers or religious beliefs. The main speaker at the conference had a churchy tone when presenting views of ethical behaviour. So, I do agree that many preachers have sanctimonious sermons. If the word is used in the original sense, it is an attribute that is important to possess for any pastor. Sadly, I must admit that many preachers orate sanctimonious homilies. In other words, they preach a ‘holier than thou’ attitude without keeping a pious lifestyle themselves.
The Bible lists the important qualities of a preacher as “above reproach, not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination, not a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, and disciplined.” (Titus 1:6-8)
It is true that no one can live up to that standard perfectly, for all have sinned and fallen short. But preachers must keep a check on their personal lives to avoid the negative connotation of sanctimonious and be known as holy and pious, the initial implication of the word.
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.
Can’t wait for Cypress Hills train trip at Eastend
Nestled along the Frenchman River Valley under the oversight of huge eroded hills, well-treed Eastend is one of this province’s prettiest towns.
Around since a Hudson Bay trading post was built in 1871, soon followed by a Metis settlement, the town is also one of the oldest in southwestern Saskatchewan.
Since Scotty the T-Rex dinosaur was discovered and the town built a dinosaur centre to displays Scotty, Yours Truly has been to Eastend several times.
What drew Gord Johnson and I this time was the tourist passenger train planned to ride through the scenic Cypress Hills to Consul.
After a nice veal cutlet lunch at Joe’s Place, we were too full to even think of
Ron Walter - For MooseJaw Express
pie. Joe’s still has the historical mural on the wall, showing the changes since 1871.
We headed for the tracks on the south side of town by the elevator.
To our surprise we saw no people
there, two lines of cars on the side track and a caboose all by itself.
Almost two years ago the tourist passenger train was announced with expected
operation this year.
Enquiries to the town and the marketing agency and the train Facebook page are met with two words: Stay tuned.
The tourist train will be a big boost to this town of 600 people.
The Eastend Museum is located in an arched building once used as the town’s movie theatre.
The museum has a large display of dinosaur bones from the Corky Jones collection. Jones was an amateur paleontologist who brought this fossil-rich area to national attention.
Displays contained are musical history, wildlife taxidermy, two log cabins side by side, an old house and a display dedicated to a local ornithologist.
One wall display catching our attention was a letter written by Louis Riel from Big River, Sask.
An old telescope from the nearby observatory recognizes that Eastend has some of the best dark skies for stargazing in the province.
The remnants of an old jail cell were interesting too.
Upcoming Events in Moose Jaw
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at:joan@ moosejawexpress.com
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 coffee or juice. Cost $10 adults/$5 for children ages 10 and under. Upcoming breakfasts: Saturdays – Aug. 10/Aug. 17/Aug. 24/ Aug. 31. The breakfast fundraiser on Aug. 10 will have an added beneft as it’ll be held in conjunction with Square One Community Inc. in support of its ongoing community initiatives.
Women “Fore” Women Golf Tournament will be held on August 10 at Hilcrest Golf Club. Register your 2-person teams at the Hillcrest Golf Course, Moose Jaw or call 306 693-1921. Payment due upon registration
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 Coffee League). Other days and times can be scheduled. Website is moosejawlawnbowling.com; Text 306690-8739 for more info.
The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will not be meeting over the summer. The next meeting will be in September.
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 offering 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 affected 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. 7 & 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 off 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 offers 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
SPECIAL PROGRAMMING:
Saturday, Aug. 10: Coding workshop for children 8-13yrs hosted by the Nanan STEM Academy featuring hands-on fun with Snap Circuits, Minecraft, and robots. Guests will have an opportunity to learn about electronics, programming robots, and the workshop is perfect for aspiring scientists and engineers. Registration required in advance.
Sunday, Aug. 11: Wild About Moose Jaw invites all ages to join at the library for a one hour Nature Walk in Crescent Park from 2-3pm. Learn about local plants and urban wildlife. Meet in front of the library shortly before 2 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 13: Collaborative workshop event for children ages 4+ with the Mosaic Community Food Farm in the Children’s Program Room at the library and will run from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The program allows children to experience frsthand the taste and smell of locally grown seasonal vegetables — plus they will get to plant some seeds of their own. Activities will include vegetable crafts, planting cold season crops for fall including lettuce and radishes, tasting and smelling a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, and all guests will learn about local food and farming. Registration is required for each child.
Thursday, Aug. 22: First ever Smash Bros. tournament for youth ages 13+ starting at 1 p.m. in the library’s Reading Room. Snacks will be provided for all guests and prizes will be available for the top four players, including a trophy and $15 3D printer voucher for frst place. Registration required.
These and all upcoming events are outlined in the library’s newsletter, which is available online at MooseJawLibrary.ca or by inquiring at the reception desk.
ADULT PROGRAMMING:
TECH TIME Available by appointment/ Time: Open hours/Location: Main Li-
brary/Ages: Adults
By appointment only - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.
HOOPLA BOOK CLUB July 1 to August 31/Check out hoopla’s spotlight title for July & 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 : SUMMER READING CLUB FOR CHILDREN UP T0 12 YRS. 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
CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pmPlease sign-in by 1pm MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACESaturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Legion Money Raffe 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 offce 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 Mon-Fri, 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.
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 Shuffeboard/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.
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
In partnership with Skills Canada Saskatchewan and the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, the Nanan STEM Academy hosted a recent educational summer camp to teach young students about life skills through the hands-on application of science and gaming.
The program began on July 29 and concluded Aug. 2, but organizers plan to host another iteration of the educational camp next summer following its success.
“We use tools such as coding, robotics, e-sports, and 3D printing to make learning fun,” explained Shaun Nanan, the academic director of Nanan STEM Academy Inc.
The purpose of the Nanan STEM Academy is to teach essential skills for the future workforce and provide students with a pathway to success in education. By utilizing tools that range from computer coding to video games such as Minecraft, the program also aims to make learning enjoyable.
One unique approach described by Nanan is the academy’s approach to failure.
Instead of focusing on a student’s grade on a given project or written assessment, he said the academy views failure as
of kitchen cupboards* Main oor laundry washer & dryer (included)* Four piece Bathroom* Stove, Double door fridge, Dishwasher and Microwave (included)* Central air & Central vac* New ooring in bathroom & kitchen
SEPARATE ENTRANCE TO BASEMENT SUITE
Four piece bath* Separate laundry area washer & dryer (included)* One bedroom with Den* Large Egress windows* Stove & Fridge (included)* Lots of storage space* Forced air gas furnace* Gas water heater* All outside doors are new.
Freshly painted top to bottom* House insulated and Vinyl sided* 24 x 16 detached garage insulated* Vinyl sided and sheeted, Electric heat* Newer garage door with new remote door opener* Large garden area* Backyard totally fenced* Parking pad* Front yard has underground sprinklers* O street parking
a necessary step to learning and it doesn’t penalize mistakes. These failures, he added, are evaluated based on the approach the student takes toward making improvements based on real-world feedback.
To help students develop the tools needed to thrive in today’s rapidly changing economy — and to facilitate students learning from feedback and failures — Nanan STEM Academy has organized its instruction around 10 essential life skills:
• Leadership: involves decision-making, confict resolution, and delegation
• Character: involves integrity, empathy, and accountability
• Collaboration: involves adaptability, active listening, and communication
• Creativity: includes idea generation, problem identifcation, and risk-taking
• Communication: involves clear expression, active questioning, and feedback delivery
• Critical thinking: involves analysis, evaluation of evidence, and logical reasoning
• Metacognition: involves self-assessment, goal setting, and developing a learning strategy
Students learn about scientifc principles — and life skills — during the 2024 Nanan STEM Academy summer camp program. Photo by: Nanan STEM Academy Inc.
and non-judgmental awareness
• Growth mindset: involves embracing challenges, persistence, and learning from feedback
• Fortitude: involves the development of resilience, patience, and courage
One Grade 8 student who helped as a teacher’s assistant, Joshua Overby, said he accepted the role because he learned the program’s administrators needed some help.
“I want to learn teaching skills,” he said, noting that the best way to develop the skill is through real-world feedback offered by instructing his peers and learning where he needs to focus to improve.
“I’m (also) planning to go into robotics and become a robotics engineer, so I found the course while searching because I was interested in coding. I found this and it was really useful,” he said.
The academy, he explained, helps set
up students to learn valuable life skills not taught elsewhere and the earliest steps to personal growth are best learned in a safe environment such as that offered by the academy.
Gabrielle (Bri) is a student from St. Michael Elementary and will be going into Grade 5 this fall. She attended the camp with her friend Clara, who attends Ecole St. Margaret and will be going to Grade 6.
“(The camp is) a lot about growth mindset and leadership skills,” Bri said. “We played esports and then we played Minecraft. If someone died (in the game) we ask why and we try to get better at it each time.
“Right now, we’re making balloon-powered cars,” she said. “So, you have to design the car so the balloon will ft in it (to power the car).”
Both Bri and Clara said they had a lot of fun at the academy, and both girls hope to one day pursue a science-related career that was doubtless inspired by their experiences.
Although concluded, the Nanan STEM Academy’s summer camp was held at the Phoenix Academy, located at 278 Fourth Avenue Northeast.
For more information about the program, visit NananAcademy.com or contact Shaun Nanan by email at Shaun@ NananAcademy.com.
To see a full agenda of this year’s programs, visit NananAcademy.com/ All-Courses/FutureCamp.
To learn more, an April 29 TED Talk presented by Nanan is available at TEDx Talks by searching for “How to use
