Moose Jaw Express December 14, 2022

The Real Canadian Superstore has launched its Holiday Food Drive to support the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, with the food collected expected to keep the shelves full until summer.

The food drive runs until December 24 and residents are encouraged to make food or monetary donations to support the initiative. All donations go directly to the community agency to help residents in need.

Statistics show that food banks across Canada have experienced record highs for usage this year, with 1.5 million people visiting a food bank in March alone. In Saskatchewan, there has been an increase in food bank visits of 21 per cent since 2019.

While it has been a challenging time for many people in Moose Jaw, children and seniors have been most adversely affected, while they make up 40 per cent and five per cent of food bank users, respectively.

“It’s absolutely wonderful,” Terri Smith, the food bank’s operations manager, said on Dec. 8 about the return of Superstore’s annual Holiday Food Drive. “This time of the year is when we try to get as many donations — and as many monetary donations — as possible because this carries us through right until next year.”

The organization’s food supply decreases substantially during the spring and summer months, so this initiative provides a positive boost to keep the shelves stocked, she continued.

Shelves are currently full thanks to the Better Together Food Drive in October. That brought in more than 43,000 pounds of food, which will help the organization survive the winter.

This extra food is vitally needed because the food bank’s hampers numbers are climbing back to where they were pre-pandemic, “which is a little scary,” said Smith. Many more people—including homeless residents— required the food bank’s services this year.

“2019 was a very busy year. And then 2020 hit and our numbers dropped 75 per cent because everyone was getting CERB payments,” she continued.

“So it was enough money to sustain where they didn’t need our help. And then once CERB stopped, that’s when I really noticed our numbers really climbing — and they’ve been climbing ever since.”

Data from the food bank shows it distributed 4,834 hampers in 2019. That dropped to 3,067 in 2020 and then jumped to 3,757 last year.

This year, excluding December, the organization has distributed 4,651 hampers.

From 2001 to 2015, the food bank distributed an average of 3,733 hampers, with the lowest year being 3,462 and the highest being 3,926. Numbers jumped into the 4,000 range in 2016.

The food bank needs basic staples, including canned foods — such as pork and beans, soup, vegetables or fruit — and Kraft Dinner, macaroni, rice, cereal, and children-focused items for the Mighty Munchies program that supports kids after school.

“(We’re) just very thankful that Superstore is such great supporters of our food

bank,” added Smith. “Moose Jaw is a very supportive and giving community, so I think we’re very fortunate to be where we are.”

Lesslie Ross, store manager of Superstore, said the company enjoys supporting the food bank, while the community is very giving and always supports the business’ fundraising events.

“It’s a little disappointing to hear (about) the (food plight) situation that Moose Jaw is in, but hopefully, we can do what we can to support and help the community with our food bank drives,” he said.

Superstore recently started a program called “Second Harvest” that aims to divert food from the landfill to the food bank, Ross said. He believes that will significantly help the organization.

“(I’m) just really proud of the community here because they really go all out in Moose Jaw,” he added. “The amount of support our food bank drives get is just incredible.”

Terri Smith, operations manager with the food bank, and Lesslie Ross, store manager of Superstore, gather at the store to kick off the annual Holiday Food Drive. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Trusting Hands Inclusive Center preparing to launch host

There might be a few final touches to put in place in the weeks leading up to their first programs, but things are rapidly coming together for the Trusting Hands Inclusive Center.

The new facility -- located in the old Rainbow Retro and Moose Jaw Pride building at 345 Main St. North -- aims to offer a wide range of programs for children with disabilities in addition to evening programs for youngsters of all ages.

Plans are in place, too, with the Center holding their grand opening on Sunday afternoon, offering a first look at the space they have to offer and an idea of what’s to come in the near future.

Trusting Hands was put together by Susan Kellock, who has over 30 years of experience working with children with disabilities and found that Moose Jaw was lacking some of the programming one would find in other communities of similar size.

“I took some time to think and research and look at what the kids need, because I love these guys, I’m very passionate about working with kids with dis-

and felt we needed something like that here. The kids need space, they don’t need small areas, they need to be able to burn that energy. They’re smart, they’re energetic and this gives them that room to do all that.”

The facility itself offers a huge playroom that will be filled with fun toys and educational items, as well as a quieter reading nook and a place for youngsters to relax if they need to. Special game and music rooms are also available, as is a fully stocked kitchen. While things are still coming together as different parts of the building are filled out, the basics are already in place.

The heart of THIC surrounds their before-school, respite and after-school programs, which run every day from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and offer families an alternative to being stay-at-home parents.

“In doing my research, I found we need a before- and after-school program, we need daytime respite since sometimes these guys only get to go to school one or two hours a day,” Kellock said. “Add that to the fact that some families won’t be able to have two incomes, because one of them has to stay home and look after the kids, and that’s where we can step in and help.”

The Inclusive Centre will also be offering several evening programs beginning in the new year, each with a different focus and age group.

Positively Me will run Monday nights beginning early January and is designed for girls 9-12 and 13-17, with the eightweek program focussing on friendships, self-esteem, defeating bullying, nutrition and exercise.

Aboriginal Shield will be a 10-week program for youngsters in Grade 5-7 and 7-8 and will focus on mental health issues as well as additions issues.

All About Me will run Wednesdays for youth 12 to 17 and will feature discussions on social skills and mental health in an open and safe environment.

Teen Nights will take place Thursday nights and will offer youngsters a place to play games, create art and even develop their cooking and baking skills.

Let’s Talk will run Friday evenings and will offer youngsters a chance to chat about life and anything else, once again in a positive environment.

THIC will also be offering special holiday events, beginning with their first as an organization, the Christmas Break Camp beginning Dec. 22 and running through Jan. 3, open to youngsters with disabilities from age 5 to 1 and featuring all sorts of fun activities to keep kids busy over the holidays.

With things rapidly rounding ito form, Kellock hopes to see Trusting Hands only grow and expand in the new year.

“I want to be full capacity and I want the kids to have fun,” she said. “I hope Moose Jaw enjoys this. I love it, I love working with the kids and we need to have a good experience with these guys.”

For more information, including costs and any other questions, stop by the Center during the day, send an e-mail to thicmj@ gmail.com or call (306) 316-9111. For the latest info on THIC, visit their Facebook page at www.bit.ly/3uNqaL3.

abilities,” Kellock said Sunday afternoon shortly after giving a tour of the expansive facility. “I saw what was happening back in Nova Scotia and in Ontario and B.C.

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Susan Kellock, owner and consultant with Trusting Hands Inclusive Center shows off their new space in the former Rainbow Retro store.

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

Gale Toews, Financial Advisor

Gale Toews Private Wealth Management of Raymond James Ltd. 602 – 1st Ave NW, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 3M6 306-693-4430 | gale.toews@raymondjames.ca www.raymondjames.ca/GaleToewsPrivateWealthManagement

Stores to stay open late Dec. 16 for ‘#NotoriouslyCharming Christmas After Dark’ event

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

The Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) will continue an event started last year as more than 20 downtown businesses keep their doors open late on Friday, Dec. 16 for shoppers to do some local Christmas shopping.

The event is to be called Moose Jaw’s #NotoriouslyCharming Christmas After Dark. Most participating businesses will keep their doors open until 9 p.m.

“Last year, it was The Perfect Find and a couple of other businesses that organized the late-night shopping event in downtown Moose Jaw,” explained Craig Hemingway, “and that event went over quite well!”

Hemingway is the City of Moose Jaw’s manager of communications/stakeholder relations and works with the city’s Economic Development Team to handle marketing duties at the DMJA.

He explained that the DMJA has agreed to take over organizing and advertising for Christmas After Dark on behalf of the downtown core.

“The Downtown Moose Jaw Association has been incorporated for a couple of years now, and we’re really just starting to gain some momentum and engage more with downtown businesses,” Hemingway said. “We really thank (the original organizers) for their co-operation and participation in getting this event off the ground, and we’re excited to continue with it.”

Downtown Moose Jaw is largely decorated for the holidays at this point, with

businesses jumping enthusiastically on board with the City’s efforts. The lights are best seen after dark, of course.

“We’d like this whole season to be called ‘Christmas in Moose Jaw,’ starting in October,” Hemingway said. “Our downtown businesses have already done a marvelous job of decorating for Christmas.

“Some of them are providing little treats for Christmas After Dark, so you

City and SGI team up to offer free transportation for New Year’s Eve

By MooseJawToday.com Staff - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

The City of Moose Jaw and Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) are once again partnering to provide safe transportation on New Year’s Eve, including additional bus stops at popular downtown locations.

This will be the 33rd year for the “Find a Safe Ride” program, which offers free Moose Jaw Transit service from 7:55 p.m. on Dec. 1 through 3:15 a.m. on Jan. 1.

“The New Year is a time to celebrate with friends and family, and getting home safe from those celebrations is paramount,” City of Moose Jaw Mayor Clive Tolley said in a press release. “We thank SGI and all of our partners for helping Moose Javians ‘Find a Safe Ride’ to and from your New Year’s celebration destination.”

Moose Jaw Transit regular fixed-route service will run between the designated hours from New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day. The entire schedule is available online at moosejaw.ca/streetsroads/transit/fixed-route-service/.

Paratransit transportation is included in the “Find a Safe Ride” campaign, but must be booked by calling Moose Jaw Transit at 306-694-4488 or by email at transit@moosejaw.ca.

Most restaurants and lounges are within easy walking distance of a bus stop. However, additional bus stops have been added at popular destinations such as Brown’s Social House, The Crushed Can Rec Room & Bar/Cask 82, Chillers Brew Pub, and Dooly’s Billiards & Lounge.

The program is also sponsored by the Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com.

might be able to find some cookies and candy and hot chocolate at some stores. It’s up to the individual stores, but everybody is encouraged to really get in the spirit of the season.”

The Moose Jaw Warriors are hosting the Regina Pats on Dec. 16. Fans driving in from Regina for the game are anticipated to add to the number of downtown shoppers. Restaurants, in particular, should see crowds before the game starts, Hemingway said, and certainly the DMJA is encouraging visitors to grab a bite to eat before heading to the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

The list of participating businesses includes (but is not limited to):

• Whiskey & Pearls Hair Salon - 6:30 p.m.

• Cranberry Collective – 9 p.m.

• Cranberry Consignment – 9 p.m.

• The Perfect Find – 9 p.m.

• Past Times Antique Style Photography & Gifts – 9 p.m.

• Lions Creek – 9 p.m.

• Sweet Treats Candy Company – 10 p.m.

• Celtic Heart Day Spa – 7 p.m.

• Kabayan Sari-Sari Store – 9 p.m.

• Taste Patisserie by Katrina – 9 p.m.

• Pita Pit – 10 p.m.

• Jillian’s Design Elements – 8 p.m.

• Twenty Eight Décor – 9 p.m.

• Evolve Coffee – 9 p.m.

• With These Hands – 9 p.m.

Investor Protection Fund.

A Moose Jaw transit bus drives past city hall on Main Street.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

The Perfect Find on Main St. began a downtown Moose Jaw event last year to help shoppers finish off their Christmas list by staying open late for a night (staff file photo)

Facebook group co-ordinates help for Ukrainians resettling in Moose Jaw

Phone: 306.694.1322 Fax: 888.241.5291

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Send your stories, events and pictures to: jritchie@moosejawtoday.com

Joan Ritchie Joyce Walter Ron Walter John Kreutzwieser

Gordon Edgar Randy Palmer Jason G. Antonio April Meersman Eugenie Officer – Ag Journalist

I found this poem on facebook and it’s a great depiction of what winter in Saskatchewan is all about…let the truth be known, but the stubble-jumpers’ love of our province runs deep. Your blood needs to run thick and those that are here are not thin-skinned and do not run from adversity; we stand up to the elements and whatever may come.

SASKATCHEWAN POEM ♥�

Author unknown

It’s winter in Saskatchewan

And the gentle breezes blow Seventy miles an hour

At thirty-five below.

Oh, how I love Saskatchewan

When the snow’s up to your butt

You take a breath of winter

And your nose gets frozen shut.

Yes, the weather here is wonderful So I guess I’ll hang around I could never leave Saskatchewan ‘Cause I’m frozen to the ground!

Joan Ritchie EDITOR

No matter what season, there is so much to do, see and experience in our beautiful winter wonderland. We are the creatures of invention and our towns and cities here on the prairies can reinvent themselves to be whatever we want them to be, whatever time of the year, no matter where we live.

Saskatchewan is know as the Land of the Living Skies where the skies overtake the landscape, a land of lakes that pebble the province, and wilderness and wide-open prairies to explore. You don’t have to venture far to find somewhere remarkable to enjoy a weekend or a few days.

The Resort at Cypress Hills

Cypress Hills in the winter months could be the destination of your dreams; the Resort at Cypress Hills offers cabins with outdoor fire pits and townhouses with gas fireplaces. You can cross-country ski, ice skate, snowshoe, toboggan, ice fish, fat bike, hike and snowmobile in the area.

The resort has skis and snowshoes for rent, but all other gear should be brought by travellers. There are usually special meals and fun events held at the onsite restaurant for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

Of course, the Cypress Hills Dark Sky Preserve offers up an incredible opportunity to spend time seeing some of the clearest night skies that you can imagine.

Historic Reesor Ranch

For 113 years and six generations, the Reesor family has been preserving the legacy of ranching in western Canada, located near Cypress Hills Provincial Park. Spend some time horseback riding in the snow, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, or tobogganing.

There is self-contained lodging available including a 1906 bunkhouse and log cabins. The on-site restaurant offers cozy dinners, or you can take away ingredients to prepare yourself in your lodgings.

Enjoy a Staycation in Moose Jaw

Even in winter, Moose Jaw has some fun activities to partake in, such as a walking tour of the more than 50 murals in town, taking a walk down in Wakamow Valley and enjoying the great outdoors or playing a game of snow golf. This is also the second year to experience the Valley of Lights in Wakamow. Mac the Moose stands stately guarding the eastern gateway to the community ready to have a selfie with anyone wishing to do so.

The mineral spa at Temple Gardens is always a year-round attraction to get a unique experience in their geothermal pool, part of which is open to the winter sky.

In Moose Jaw, the coffee is always on and the hospitality is friendly. There are so many great restaurants to experience, you won’t want to leave… Waskesiu and Prince Albert National Park

This park covers 3,874 square kilometres in total. The Park has 120 kilometers of trails to explore on snowshoe or cross-country skis and Waskesiu Lake offers ice fishing opportunities. Sundog Excursions in Waskesiu offer guided adventures like dogsledding, snowshoe wanders and puppy camps for families with young children. Because this is a National Park, park fees are in effect.

You can read more about what Saskatchewan has to offer in winter at https://www.todocanada.ca/15-christmas-and-winter-holiday-getaways-in-saskatchewan/

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

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw

A Facebook group started by several Moose Javians is helping to co-ordinate aid for Ukrainians choosing to resettle in Moose Jaw due to the ongoing war in their native country.

Although they are not refugees, many Ukrainian immigrants are fleeing violence from cities being indiscriminately and brutally bombarded by Russian forces. Mariupol, for example, has lost more than three quarters of its pre-war population of over 400,000 people. Russia’s siege of the city resulted in its almost total destruction.

As a result of that aggression, families such as the Shyshko family from Kherson left Ukraine with almost nothing.

The Facebook group Ukraine help and exchange in Moose Jaw is a growing community of people who want to help these newcomers settle into their lives here with everything they might need.

“I kind of jumped on board around September,” explained Christy Schweiger. Schweiger is the education co-ordinator at the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery and is very involved in the community. “I was kind of wondering in the community, what was going on? How many Ukrainian people are here? And nobody really seemed to know.”

Schweiger reached out to the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council and its Newcomer Welcome Centre division. However, those organizations are focused on aiding government-sponsored refugees rather than immigrants.

“I started asking more questions and still, I was confused by the process. I thought, well, I’ve got the skills to start a Facebook page, so why don’t I start there and see who I can muster up?”

That page has quickly grown to be the hub for information about new Ukrainian families and what they need. Schweiger discovered that there are Ukrainians in Moose Jaw, and there are people helping them.

Glenda James, for example, started hosting a Ukrainian family in July after a chance meeting with a

friend at the grocery store. She has hosted exchange students in the past and had a basement suite the family used until they found their own place.

The family staying with James needed clothing, kitchen supplies, furniture, and more. With the help of friends including Linda Law and Gail Reader, James found these essentials.

James, Law, and Reader are now among the nearly 350 members of Ukraine help and exchange in Moose Jaw.

Together with Schweiger and other community-minded volunteers, the group co-ordinates rides, connects newcomers to employment resources, arranges donation pickup and drop-off, finds trucks and strong backs for moving days, and helps with house- and apartment-hunting.

It’s a place to meet, help, and participate.

In a letter drafted co-peratively by the group, they point out that the city wants to increase its population and would benefit from pulling together for Ukrainians.

“Many young Ukrainians with valuable work skills to offer are seeking a new home in Moose Jaw,” the letter states. “We are building a community of support for them. We want to keep them in Moose Jaw.”

Suggestions of ways to help range from hosting a family in a spare room or basement — the most pressing need, group organizers agree — to donating furniture in good condition, to creating laundry, linen, bathroom, or kitchen baskets filled with essentials.

“These people had jobs, homes, and were entirely self-sufficient until the war,” the letter says. “They are eager to rebuild.”

The best way to help is to join the Facebook group and ask about current needs.

“This is what Moose Jaw does well,” James said. “As a city, we come together, we know each other, we tap each other on the shoulder to help. And that happens all the time, not just in this situation. I think that’s something to celebrate about our city.”

MJM&AG selling limited-edition García-Luna prints for holiday season

By MooseJawToday.com Staff - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery (MJM&AG) is selling limited-edition prints of Breeze by Saskatchewan artist Gabriela García-Luna this holiday season, which MJM&AG curator Jennifer McRorie says are a perfect gift for art lovers.

All proceeds of the limited-edition run of 100 prints — signed by the artist — will go towards the purchase of Peggy by Joe Fafard. They cost $103.77 — an even $110 after taxes.

“We’ve been fundraising for Peggy since 2016, when renowned Saskatchewan artist Joe Fafard first delivered her to MJM&AG for his exhibition ‘Sunny Ways,’” McRorie explained. “We’ve already raised $60,000 of the total $100,000 that Joe agreed to sell her at, even though she was valued at $150,000 at that time and is probably worth more than $200,000 now.”

García-Luna is a Mexican-born artist who now lives in Saskatoon after completing her Master of Fine Arts degree at the University of Saskatchewan. Prior to that, she was based in Moose Jaw for over 10 years.

“Artist Gabriela García-Luna has graciously licensed the MJM&AG to print smaller photographic prints of her work Breeze,” McRorie said, “which is part of the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection.”

The original artwork is currently on display alongside an artist proof of the print in the MJM&AG’s lobby.

The limited-edition print run was agreed to by García-Luna because Fafard was a dear friend of hers and

a big influence on her as a new artist in Saskatchewan, McRorie added.

Breeze (2021) is an example of García-Luna’s exploration of digitally altered photo images as a connection between artificial and natural aspects of human experience. The artist creates abstracted layers from landscape photographs, resulting in traces of the organic that appear to be drawings.

Emerald Custom Creations in Moose Jaw offered a 15 per cent discount to anyone who has one of the limited-edition prints of Breeze framed by Feb. 1, 2023. They will donate five per cent of such framing costs to the Peggy fundraising efforts.

The MJM&AG is committed to acquiring Peggy for the Permanent Collection and displaying her as a public art work on behalf of the City of Moose Jaw.

Peggy is a bronze sculpture of a filly, or young female horse, that Fafard created not-to-scale. At seven feet tall, the sculpture plays with scale and is intended to show the filly so that adults will view her from the relative height of a toddler — inspiring awe and appreciation.

“Public art contributes to the cultural life and vitality of a community,” McRorie said. “Peggy is a stunning example of Joe Fafard’s work and is a beautiful addition to our city.”

Breeze prints are 10 by 10 inches and unframed. They can be purchased in person at the MJM&AG gift shop or online at mjmag.ca/print-fundraiser.

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

The contents of this publication are the property of the Moose Jaw Express. Reproduction of any of the contents of this publication, including, but without limiting the generality of the following: photographs, artwork and graphic designs, is strictly prohibited.

There shall be no reproduction without the express written consent of the publisher. All ads in the Moose Jaw Express are published in good faith without verification. The Moose Jaw Express reserves the right to refuse, classify, revise or censor any ads for any reason in its sole discretion. This paper may include inaccuracies or errors.

The Moose Jaw Express does not under any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of any ads or messages in any of the publications editions. The Moose Jaw Express specifically disclaims all and any liability to advertisers and readers of any kind for loss or damage of any nature what-so-ever and however arising, whether due to inaccuracy, error, omission or any other cause.

All users are advised to check ad and message details carefully before entering into any agreement of any kind and before disclosing personal information. If in doubt, please take legal advice.

The banner of the ‘Ukraine help and exchange in Moose Jaw’ Facebook page (art by Alina Zimohliad)

“Breeze” by Gabriela García-Luna (MJM&AG)

EMS piloting Blue Tape program to prevent repeat calls to same incident

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Medavie Health Services West, which operates Emergency Medical Services (EMS) ambulance response in Saskatchewan, is piloting a program which will put blue tape on vehicles that have already had an emergency response — hopefully preventing repeat calls.

“With our increased call volumes and demands on paramedics, responding to false calls, or calls that don’t require an ambulance had an impact on our ability to respond to actual emergency calls,” said Troy Davies, spokesperson for MHS West, in a release announcing the program. “Our colleagues in Nova Scotia launched a similar program like this in 2018 and we have adopted this for our EMS services in Saskatoon, Moose Jaw, and Lloydminster.”

Kyle Sereda, Chief of Moose Jaw & District EMS Paramedic Services, explained that paramedics often visit the same incident scene several times, wasting valuable resources.

“We’ve gone out to the same accidents five, six times, because when someone calls 911 … we don’t know anything more than that the caller drove by and saw a car in the ditch,” he said. “The blue tape program is the attempt, when we leave that scene, to wrap tape visibly on the out-

side.”

Each ambulance in Moose Jaw now carries the blue tape. If responders have time, they can mark the scene and indicate that emergency services have been on site and have already transported any patients involved.

The tape serves two functions. First, during the 911 call itself operators can ask if EMS blue tape is visible. This helps when callers may not be educated on what the blue tape means.

Second, as the public becomes more familiar with

the program, potential 911 callers may see the tape first and realize a 911 call isn’t necessary.

“If an individual knows about our blue tape program, they’ll drive by and see that and go, ‘OK, no problem, someone’s been there, no need to call 911,’” Sereda said. “Many times our challenges are in really bad weather, and emergency services are taking risks way out in these situations, especially more than once and especially if it’s unnecessary.

“Because we can’t decline. If somebody phones 911, we don’t say, ‘No, we think that’s the same accident.’ Because sometimes it is and sometimes it isn’t. So, unless we know for sure, we still respond.”

Sereda said that although the Blue Tape Program is labelled as a pilot, it will almost certainly continue indefinitely. The program pilot is intended as an introductory period to educate the public and help raise awareness.

MHS West stated in its release that when in doubt about whether to call emergency services, members of the public should do the safe thing and call.

“Knowing when to call an ambulance can help our current call volumes,” Davies said, “but if in doubt on whether you should call or not, always make the call!”

Annual Compound Interest – Annual Inflation And The Rule of 72

Here’s a quick and dirty way for estimating the annual compound interest on an investment. It can also be used to estimate doubling costs due to Inflation which is the same as losing half your money.

It’s called, the Rule of 72. Spreadsheet have the proper calculator.

Always consult an Investment Advisor before investing.

Here is how the Rule of 72 works:

1 Enter 72 in your calculator

2 Divide it by the annual Interest Rate (IR) (If it is between 6 and 10%)

By Richard Dowson

3 The result is the number of years it takes to double your investment.

4 EXAMPLE: 72 divided by 6 (the IR of 6%) Equals 12 and 12 years, the number of years it takes to double your investment.

Inflation – The Reduction of the Value of Money

Inflation means it takes more money to buy something. Here’s what happens when the Rule of 72 is applied to annual Inflation Rate.

Canada – September 2022 Rates of Inflation

The Overall Annual Inflation Rate is 6.9%. Estimation: (72/6.9 = 10.4) Prices of everything will double in

10.4 years

Food Inflation Annual Rate: 10.28 – Estimation: (72/10.28 = 7.0) Prices double in 7 years

Energy Annual Rate is 14.01 – We now use the Rule of 74 (you don’t need the details) The Result: (74/14.01 = 5.3) Price Doubles in 5.3 years

Transportation Annual Rate is 8.68 (72/8.68 = 8.3) Cost Doubles in 8.3 years

Inflation reduces the value of your money pretty quickly. Inflation must be reduced – or you need a huge raise.

Medavie Health Services West blue tape marks a vehicle that EMS has already responded to (Medavie Health Services West)

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - Moose Jaw Express

Side dishes to complement Tom Turkey or Henry Ham

The side dishes prepared for the Christmas Eve or Christmas Day dinner could be considered just as important as the turkey, ham or roast traditionally served for the occasion.

The Christmas Cookbook, published in 1969, contains many traditional and non-traditional recipes with which to celebrate Christmas meals enjoyed in the company of family and good friends.

This week’s side-dish ideas come from The Christmas Cookbook, which ideally could be used at any other time of the year.

• •

•

TURNIP PUFF

1 large turnip peeled, cooked and mashed

2 tbsps. butter

2 eggs, beaten

3 tbsps. all-purpose flour

1 tbsp. brown sugar

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp. or more black pepper

1 tsp. ground nutmeg

1 tbsp. melted butter

1/4 cup dry bread crumbs

Grease a 1 1/2 quart casserole with butter. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Peel and cook turnip then mash to make 3

•

cups. Pour mashed turnips into a food processor or blender.

Add the flour, sugar, baking power, salt, pepper and nutmeg and mix until well-blended and smooth. Turn into the prepared casserole.

Combine the melted butter and bread crumbs and sprinkle evenly on top of turnip mixture. Bake for about 25 minutes until lightly browned. Makes 6-8 servings.

• •

BRANDIED CRANBERRIES

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup brandy

1/2 cup water

1/2 cup orange juice

2 1/4 tbsps. orange rind

4 cups fresh cranberries

2 tbsps. red currant jelly

1 tsp. ground ginger

Combine the sugar, brandy, water, orange juice and rind in a large heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar is dissolved.

Add the cranberries and bring to boil. Continue boiling, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes, or until the skins pop.

Remove from the heat and add the currant jelly and ginger. Mix well. Pour into a container and

refrigerate.

Serve cold with roast turkey, duck or goose. Makes about 4 cups.

Leftover sauce may be added to yogurt and milk and whipped in a blender for a tart drink.

•

•

•

GINGER GLAZED CARROTS

1 lb. carrots

1/4 cup butter

2 tbsps. brown sugar

1 tsp. ground ginger salt and pepper to taste

Peel the carrots and cut into matchstickshaped pieces.

In a heavy skillet, melt the butter and add the carrots. Cover with a lid fitted with a buttered round of wax paper.

Steam over low heat for 10-12 minutes or until just tender. Remove lid and paper.

Sprinkle the carrots with the brown sugar, ginger, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes longer or until glazed. Keep warm until ready to serve. Makes 6 servings.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net

Prairie South School Division signs memorandum with Métis Local 160

During their Dec. 6 school board meeting, Prairie South School Division (PSSD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the New Southern Plains Métis Local 160 to increase co-operation between the two organizations.

“This is our third (MOU), we’ve signed one with Sask Polytech and Holy Trinity (Catholic School Division),” said Darrell Hawman, president of the Métis Local 160. “It’s an opportunity to be able to go and work with the school boards on good outcomes for Métis students and for all students.”

Métis Local 160 and Sask Polytech form partnership - MooseJawToday.com

· Catholic division, Métis group sign agreement to support students and culture - MooseJawToday.com PSSD school board chair Giselle Wilson signed the MOU on behalf of the board. She thanked Hawman for his role in bringing the MOU to fruition and noted that the agreement would help Prairie South fulfill its Truth and

Reconciliation goals.

As part of the signing, Hawman presented PSSD Director of Education Ryan Boughen with an honorary Métis sash.

Hawman told media afterward that working with Prairie South, the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, and Sask Polytech would advance skills training and educational outcomes for Métis people in Moose Jaw.

“In the last census, there were 1,500 people that self-identified as Métis in the community (of Moose Jaw). I’m guessing that number is probably closer to 3,000 if everybody who knew (their ancestry) … was able to register.”

Two topics highlighted by the agreement are the teaching of the Michif language and of Métis history in Moose Jaw and surrounding area.

Michif is a mixed language formed from French and Cree. It is widely spoken by Métis peoples throughout Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia. Sask Polytech has begun helping to revive the language, offering Métis students the chance to learn the basics on campus.

Hawman said that forming closer connections with Métis students in PSSD was important to help those students access resources for higher education and trade schools, such as Gabriel Dumont Institute’s Pathways program for Métis entrepreneurs.

New Southern Plains Metis Local 160 President Darrell Hawman shakes hands with Giselle Wilson, chair of the PSSD board, after signing the MOU (photo by Gordon Edgar)

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Darrell Hawman shakes PSSD Director of Education Ryan Boughen’s hand after presenting him with an honorary Metis sash (photo by Gordon Edgar)

Emergency Act hearing on Freedom Convoy opinions will vary on politics

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Sometime in the New Year Canadians will get a ruling from the judge at the “Freedom Convoy” hearings in Ottawa.

Mr. Justice Rouleau will decide whether the federal Liberal government’s use of authoritarian powers in the Emergencies Act last February was warranted and reasonable.

Testimony from 230 witnesses has included much wrangling about the interpretations of the Act.

Testimony has also revealed an Ottawa police chief who apparently feared co-operation with other police agencies and didn’t pay attention to warnings, or didn’t receive them.

The Ottawa police were prepared for a “normal” three days of protests with trucks leaving after making a point.

Instead, they got a large number of trucks with blaring horns, diesel fumes and parties taking over part of downtown Ottawa for three weeks.

The Ottawa police leadership was so iffy that Ontario Provincial Police and the RCMP were loathe to work with them, believing there was no plan to get the protesters to leave.

While the protests were relatively peaceful, protesters were breaking local traffic and noise bylaws and interfering with life by residents and businesses in the area.

Another incredible piece of testimony came from

RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki, who seems to have believed police could end the protest but failed to tell that to cabinet in a meeting. Why?

The lack of communication contributed to the confusion.

The situation reminds one of the bungling in the Keystone Cops movies.

Added to the information, Ottawa had - information that some convoy members possibly planned attacks on government - was the fact there were no leaders speaking for all convoy participants.

The convoy was a mixture of anti-vaccine protesters, anti-Trudeau voters and a few persons who wanted to have the governor-general throw out the Liberals to form a new government with the Senate and the governor-general.

That seems to show an obvious understanding on how the Canadian system works.

When the RCMP seized a weapons cache at the Coutts border convoy and arrested four men, ears perked up. Was this the start of a nation-wide conflict to overturn the government?

One black cloud hanging over the hearing was the government’s refusal to present the legal advice used to make the final decision.

In the end, most observers will decide their opinion based on personal politics. Conservatives will probably

By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

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

point to early consideration of the Act by cabinet ministers saying they planned it all along.

Others will probably say early consideration was just being prepared.

People should ask themselves what would they have done?

In the face of three weeks of continued protests interfering with the lives and work of Ottawa residents, no end in sight, and with police unable to handle the situation, what would you have done?

Did the discovery of weapons at Coutts and the possible link to a militant group called Diagalon, push the feds over the brink?

It seems, the Jan. 6 Washington riots were still fresh in the minds.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Square One releases list of warm-up spaces and emergency shelters

[Editorial note: This article originally mis-attributed the compiled list to the Community-Based Coalition. The list was compiled by Square One Community, Inc.]

Square One Community Inc., an organization working to ensure everyone has access to safe, secure housing, has compiled a list of warm-up spaces and emergency shelter support operations in Moose Jaw.

Square One is asking that members of the public share any suggested updates and requests for additions to the list of warming spaces to communitysquareone@ gmail.com.

The list will be maintained and updated on Moose Jaw Multicultural Council website at: mjmcinc.ca/news/ city-of-moose-jaw-cold-weather-strategy.

The Community-Based Coalition of Moose Jaw South Central Region, an organization that works to co-ordinate with and stay aware of the activities of community-based organizations (CBOs) in Moose Jaw and surrounding areas, assisted Square One in distributing this list in Moose Jaw as part of the city’s Cold Weather Strategy.

The list includes contact numbers and advice for concerned citizens on who to call if a person who is unhoused or housing-insecure is in danger from the weather.

In frigid temperatures, frostbite can occur in minutes. Frostbite is a dangerous and sometimes underestimated condition that can cause permanent damage and increase the onset of hypothermia.

Exposed skin is most at risk, but long-term exposure can also endanger skin that is only lightly covered. Tingling, numbness, and pain are followed by skin discoloration as the water in the skin freezes, killing the cells.

If you notice signs of frostbite, make every effort to get out of the cold. Do not rub the area or apply too much heat. Gentle warmth is best.

The public is reminded that if you see an un-housed person in distress, 911 is always an option. Emergency services including the Moose Jaw Police Service will work with the individual to connect them to services and see they are safe.

Warm-up Spaces/Food

• Sweet Treats

14 River Street East 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat

Community-donated snacks and washroom available

• Moose Jaw Public Library 461 Langdon Crescent

9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mon-Thurs 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fri/Sat 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sun Washrooms, water, and a warm space

• John Howard Society

15 Hochelaga Street West 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mon-Fri

Warm space, soup or sandwich lunch daily, washrooms, warm clothing

• Riverside Mission — contact Rachel Mullens, rmullens@shrmsk.com

40 Manitoba Street East Lunch meal program: Soup and sandwich meal MonFri, in-house dining, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Supper meal program: Hot plated meal Mon-Fri, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

• Zion United Church 423 Main Street North Mondays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Warm space, soup and sandwich lunch

• St. Andrews United Church 60 Athabasca Street West Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Warm space, soup and sandwich lunch

• St. Aidan’s Anglican Church — office@staidan.ca 124 1st Avenue North-East Saturday lunches, 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday lunches, 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

• Salvation Army Community and Family Services 175 First Avenue Northeast

Brown bag breakfast and hot coffee Monday to Friday, 9 to 11 a.m.

Emergency Shelter Support Options

• Social Services Intake 1-866-221-5200 or Moose Jaw branch: 306-694-3647 (24/7)

• Police and Crisis Team (PACT) 306-694-7600 (daytime)

• My Place program at John Howard Nica, 306-630-3890 (daytime) Meagan, 306-630-7081 (daytime) Jodie, 306-690-9384 (24/7)

• Alliance Wellness Centre Patti, 306-201-5352

Taylor, 306-631-5489 (life coach) Tasha, 306-630-3807 (addictions worker) coo.alliancehealth@sasktel.net

• Community Paramedics (Medavie Health Services West) 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Contact through referral agencies such as Social Services, John Howard, SHA

• Riverside Mission/Souls Harbour

40 Manitoba Street East

Intake 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day

Rachel Mullens, rmullens@shrmsk.com Men only

A person without housing sleeps on a snow-covered park bench (Ladanifer/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Reflective Moments

By Joyce Walter - Moose Jaw Express

Discarding loyal friends is a disconcerting task

I don’t take it personally anymore when friends and family members, subtly or not so subtly, suggest I should start parting with some of the possessions that pre-date the middle of the 20th century.

If they only knew they would be more shocked to learn that I can easily list a remarkable number of items that are even older. Some consider them junk, suitable only for a garage sale table. Others with my mindset regard these items as heirlooms, collectibles, antiques, memorabilia that suggests an affection for the past and for the individuals who allowed me to be the caretaker of these treasures.

I am not ashamed to admit that I believe that change for the sake of change is usually unnecessary, costly and certainly frustrating for the person who has to make the changes.

There is no doubt that I am partial to the set of Wedgewood dishes collected for me prior to me setting up housekeeping in my Ominica Street apartment. Over the years some pieces have been broken and now the remainder of the set is tucked safely away after continuous complaints from Housemate that the plates in the set were too heavy for regular use. So off to a safe place they went, replaced by a more modern style and design. Soon they too

will be old and someone will encourage me to call the auctioneer.

Similarly, I was distraught when the reliable repairman told me he could no longer fix what ailed the stove that was pushing 40 years. If we hadn’t needed an oven for certain foods, I could have managed with four working burners, with the oven being relegated to storage.

I did not dance with delight when the original refrigerator from the beginning of our marriage kept things warm instead of cold. We had to replace it with one not meant for a homemaker that likes to have considerable space available for leftovers and foodstuffs that might be required for unexpected dinner guests. The replacement fridge lasted five years and its current replacement is even more disappointing. The squeaky freezer compartment door allows me to know when ice cream is likely being removed from cold storage.

Despite the cracks, I absolutely will not consider turning my back on the set of three plastic mixing bowls I bought for my apartment. None of the new bowls in their midst come close to being so pleasing.

The radio in the clock-radio no longer works but the clock has never failed me so no, it will not be advertised for sale. And ditto for the radio-cassette player. The ra-

dio works just fine on AM but will have nothing to do with FM. And the cassette player tends to unravel the tape in the cassettes. One out of three still deserves some loyalty.

And then there is the electric tea kettle, one of those round ones with a sturdy handle and a mirror-like exterior. That kettle came to this house with us in 1978 and has been loyal ever since.

Lately though it made some unusual sounds as it boiled the water and we humans predicted that one day soon we might have to send it to the tea kettle heaven. “No, it works just fine,” I told myself, and Housemate who had that doubting look.

And then it happened: I filled the kettle and plugged it in. There was a pop like a loaded cap gun going off. Another pop, and silence. I know a watched kettle never boils but I watched, I carefully touched the exterior and found it chilly, unplugged it and then returned the plug to the outlet. Missy tea kettle sat there, unmoving and un-boiling.

The water was poured out and I turned the kettle upside down to see some rusty-looking screw and another blackish mark — proof that the appliance was beyond our mechanical capabilities.

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Housemate was advised of the death that had taken place upstairs and his mourning period lasted all of two seconds before he started researching a replacement. I, with more empathy, polished the exterior to a brilliant shine and swished out the insides as a thank you for such long service.

Off we went in search of a new kettle, one that simply boiled water when it was plugged in and stopped boiling when the cord is pulled out. Kettles are much more sophisticated these days, some with remote controls and others with the ability to be set to start boiling at a certain time. We picked the least complicated, paid a hefty price and took our new possession home. The old one sits there close by, like it is eyeing up the new interloper and waiting for it to get itself into trouble.

Maybe someday I will package “old faithful” for disposal in the place that wellloved kettles go for disposal.

We will have to figure out which relative will inherit the new kettle for it is certain that we won’t be around if it should work for at least 40 years. I’m sure there will be a family competition to see which youngster will win the bequest.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

The Moose Jaw Community Players have a plan to return to their pre-pandemic production schedule of two plays a year and are starting with an original work depicting the pivotal events of Moose Jaw’s history.

Director Debbie Burgher said that what the Community Players really need going into the new year are some fresh faces with interest in theatre.

“We’re always, always looking for people to be involved in all aspects,” she said. “And this is a large play! I would like to see, you know, 25 to 30 people involved in this show. It would be wonderful if we could have a large cast.”

The Moose Jaw Community Players (MJCP) want to hold the play at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre (MJCC), on the Mae Wilson stage.

An open house at the MJCC was held on Saturday, Dec. 3 for community members to stop by and chat and see what it’s like to be involved in a live production.

“We need an infusion of enthusiastic, community-minded people who want to help us do something fun and creative and

awesome,” said Crystal Milburn, MJCP president. “Some stations were set up with our members who have taken the lead on doing certain roles, like directing and stage managing and the technical stuff, sound and lights.

“People could wander around and see what it takes to put together a show.”

For those who are interested but couldn’t make it to the open house, the best place for MJCP info is their Facebook page.

Notoriously Moose Jaw will come to the stage after several years of development. Burgher was pleased to report that the script itself is nearly complete.

“I would say the skeleton is done, and most of the meat is on the bones,” she laughed. “Not quite all the way there, but close.”

Burgher noted that the play has been written collaboratively. MCJP member Tara Gish, who died in 2021, was part of the original writing group, and Joan Stumborg is also heavily involved.

“I’m not working on this alone, that’s for sure. Joan Stumborg is quite the cat-

alyst and quite the talented writer. She’s written a goodly portion of this play.”

In addition, a Theatre Saskatchewan program enabled the MJCP to bring in dramaturge Gordon Portman to provide feedback.

“Through Theatre Saskatchewan, they had a program that allowed playwrights to access (Portman). And he read our play, and then we met via Zoom. … And then the last time, Theatre Saskatchewan arranged to have some readers, and

we did an around-the-table read so we could hear it out loud, which makes a huge difference.”

Notoriously Moose Jaw is a series of vignettes covering events such as the 1918 ‘Spanish’ flu pandemic, the 1954 deaths of 37 people resulting from the collision of two planes in the skies above Moose Jaw, and the disastrous flood of 1974.

“We’ve presented them in all different styles of theatre,” Burgher said. “You have your regular scenes, with dialogue. Then we have musical numbers, we have story theatre, we have reader’s theatre in there, just different ways of storytelling.”

While it is impossible to stick to the facts with complete faithfulness — nobody was jotting down every word on a napkin during the events, Burgher pointed out — the play will preserve the historical details.

Milburn said that if everything works out as planned, Notoriously Moose Jaw will have two showings at the Mae Wilson in the first week of May.

“We’re excited to get back out there and make art again.”

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

By Patricia Hanbidge

Growing Food Indoors in Winter –Part II

Last week our column focused on the importance of growing food indoors in the winter – especially with our produce costs projected to rise 6 to 8% in 2023. We talked about plants needing light, water, warmth, oxygen and food to grow but we need to focus a bit more on how to ensure we supply enough light to be successful in this venture. As we are in the Northern Hemisphere, the sun is a long way away from us in winter so supplemental light is necessary in order to get good growth indoors. Thus, if we choose to grow anything other than sprouts, we will need to invest in a grow light.

There are many choices in grow lights but I personally like the SunBlaster T5 fluorescent full spectrum lights that are 48 inches in length. They are reasonably priced and are fairly energy efficient. If you wish to spend a bit more, they also sell, LED’s if they are in your

price bracket.

Light is one of the most important factors to consider when growing plants indoors. When choosing plants to grow this time of year to supplement your diet, think about the light that they need to thrive and ensure the plants are appropriately situated under your grow light. Lettuce, just as an example, needs light to germinate so when planting tiny seeds that need light, I simply sprinkle the seeds on the top of the media, and gently press them into the media. Misting the planted areas will also ensure that the seeds have good contact with the media but still get that needed light for germination. Follow the directions that are found on the seed packet and remember that generally a seed is planted to the depth of the diameter of the seed. It is important to keep the media moist to ensure even germination so covering the pot with a plastic wrap or tray cover until most of the seeds germinate is a good idea.

Once the seeds have mostly germinated, they will need to be put directly under the grow light to ensure the seedlings develop into strong, healthy plants. If you notice that your seedlings are tall and spindly, it is likely because they are not getting enough light. As the seedlings grow, gradually raise the light to coincide with their rate of growth. Gradually reduce the humidity over a day or so to ensure that the tiny plants are not subjected to undue stress while ensuring the media is still kept moist

but not wet.

Growing your own plants from seed is not just fun, but allows us freedom to grow almost anything we desire! There is an amazing selection of different varieties and cultivars of plants that sometimes makes it rather difficult for us to decide what we should grow. It is easy to get carried away and grow too much as this time of year we are craving green growth and those tiny little packets don’t seem to hold that much! It is only once those plants get growing, we see how a few seeds can easily grow into way too many plants! Instead of planting all the seeds in the package, only plant as many as you will need. Share the leftovers or store them in a cool, dry place.

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

Watch for future columns after the holiday season that help you to successfully grow some food indoors in winter. Orchid Horticulture and Horticulturist, Patricia Hanbidge is offering an online course on growing food indoors on January 14th 2023. Check out this offering under Community Learning on our website at www.orchidhort.com

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?

‘Guitar Lessons’ movie by Aaron James gets special screening at Cultural Centre

Guitar Lessons is a new movie from filmmaker Aaron James starring Corb Lund, Kaden Noskiye, and Conway Kootenay. MooseJawToday.com spoke with James about filming in a small town in Alberta, representing the Cree language, and exporting Prairie culture to the world.

Gordon Edgar - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

most of the last 15 years. The pandemic forced him to stay in Canada for a while. He had some time, he said, but no project to spend it on — until an Alberta town contacted him with an idea.

“A community in northern Alberta, High Level, Alberta, they were fans of my first film, Hank Williams First Nation. And they got it in their head, ‘Wouldn’t it be fun to make a movie up here? We hear Aaron’s kicking around in Calgary without much to do, why don’t we invite him to make a movie?’

“So, they did, and they raised some money and asked me if I had a story.”

The story was written from an experience James had while working as a substitute teacher in Wabasca, Alberta. Wabasca is a small Cree community that became short of teachers early in the pandemic. A friend remembered that James had an education degree and invited him to teach for a couple of months.

on film before, and maybe four professional actors. Everybody else, all the cast and crew, are local folks who just wanted to come and intern and be part of the movie.

important place in the film, brought out especially by Cree comedian and actor Conway Kootenay. Kootenay plays the outrageous Ernie.

“I grew up among Cree, and I’ve lived with them and worked with them all my life,” James said. He is a self-described farm boy from Peace River, Alberta. “I love the language and the culture and the people, and I feel at home there. So, it’s just the most natural thing for me.

“Many of us who live in northern Alberta, even if we’re not Cree, it’s still part of the culture.”

James said that representing that northern prairie culture with its combination of Indigenous and settler influences is an important part of the experience he’d like audiences to have with his films.

Guitar Lessons is about a 15-year-old Métis boy — played by Kaden Noskiye — who inherits a guitar from a father he never knew. He seeks out a prickly local oilfield contractor — played by Corb Lund — rumoured to have a rock-star past, and asks him for lessons.

A special screening of the film showed at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre on Dec. 7.

“It’s a wonderful film, I love it,” said James.

James has been working in the US for

A mischievous student found out James was a musician and started carrying a guitar and asking him for lessons.

“So I wrote a little story about this random kid asking for guitar lessons, and that’s what turned into the movie,” James laughed.

High Level turned out to be a great community to shoot a film. The whole town pitched in — more than half of the cast and crew were enthusiastic amateurs from the community, making it a Prairie movie by Prairie people.

“It was just fun,” James said. “We had about four crew people who had worked

“You know, we had a pharmacist holding the boom mic and truckers and ranchers filling in here and there. Some communities have good, active theatre groups that put on ambitious plays like Hamlet — well, we had an ambitious community that came together to make a film.”

James said the community was thrilled to have them and lined up to provide whatever they needed.

“‘You need an old car? A barn? You need a snowmobile? You need some cute kids, or an ugly one-eyed dog? We’ll have it there in the morning,’” James recounted. “People just wanted to come and participate.”

Cree language and culture have an

He described being in High Prairie, Alberta 15 years ago for a showing of Hank Williams First Nation and having a Cree woman express her gratitude for representing her people.

“A kookum, that’s the Cree word for grandmother, came up to me and lifted me right up off the ground in a big old bear hug,” James remembered. “And she said, ‘I’m 78 years old, and that’s the first time in my life I’ve seen my language, my people, my land up on the big screen.’

“And she thanked me for that, and that’s the experience people are having with Guitar Lessons. I mean, it’s a good film, but what makes it special beyond that is just that it’s us. We recognize ourselves and our kids and our land and our language up on the screen.”

Kaden Noskiye (left) plays Leland Parenteau opposite country star Corb Lund as Ray Mitchel. Image courtesy Route 504 PR

Director Aaron James. Image courtesy Route 504 PR

Guitar Lessons film poster, Image courtesy Route 504 PR

By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

City Council forgets obligation when discussing municipal budget

City managers told council the tax boost in this 2023 budget still gives a good deal to the taxpayers.

Supposedly, taxes on a so-called average house will still be less than combined cable and power bills.

Those $1,500 average taxes for city coffers missed a key piece. The property owners must still pay the hefty education tax levied by the province.

In the case of my partner and I, our municipal taxes last year were $1,611.09 plus a $30 infrastructure levy. But we also, paid $936 in education taxes to the province.

The city seems to have forgotten homeowners still have a pretty substantial tax burden from education taxes on property.

Our total taxes last year amounted to $2,522 on a not so substantial house.

The 4.75 per cent increase on the municipal portion will add $76.52 to the bill.

But the added $100 parks and recreation flat tax — to replace the outdoor swimming pool— adds another

Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Notes

The next Board of Police Commissioners meeting is Thursday, Jan 12, 2023

The Victim Services Unit at police headquarters has been without a trauma dog since Kane the yellow Labrador retriever retired 15 months ago, but a new pooch has finally walked onto the scene.

Terri Roney, victim services co-ordinator, showed off three-year-old Sven the black Labrador retriever during the Board of Police Commissioners’ Dec. 8 meeting.

Roney — who replaced former co-ordinator Donna Blondeau when she and Kane retired in August 2021 — has been actively working to acquire a replacement since Kane left. Through discussions and meetings with the Pacific Assistance Dog Society (PADS) in Burnaby, British Columbia, society staff helped Roney identify a suitable accredited facility dog candidate.

“He’s worked quite hard since he was about eight weeks old to make it to this level as a facility dog. To make it to the judicial level takes a lot of work, so we’re very lucky to have him at this placement,” Roney said.

Sven will work with victims of crime and comfort them in court when necessary, support those in crisis, help those affected by sexual assaults or interpersonal violence, people giving forensic interviews or residents who need comfort after facing traumatic experiences or events.

After Kane’s retirement, Victim Services realized a trauma/facility dog was a valuable tool and one that was missed, she said. Sven arrived on Nov. 27 and passed his judicial field and access test, and since Nov. 30, has al-

6.2 per cent to the bill for a 10.95 per cent increase to city taxes.

That nearly double-digit increases doesn’t count the increases in water and sewer rates of four per cent for water and 2.4 per cent for sewer. Based on the past year’s usage that bill came to about $1,550 and will jump about $55, depending on how much water I use to grow the garden that might help offset inflation

Odd thing, I still get charged for sewage fees for the water put on the lawn and garden as if that flowed into the sewer system.

When all is accounted for, we will be paying over $4,300 property taxes and water/sewage fees.

Last year the same services cost us just over $4,127 for a 5.5 per cent increase.

The percentage increases is even less for larger newer homes. It would be immensely more fair if that $100 infrastructure levy was spread out in percentage increases to all property owners.

Doing that would make the tax load less burdensome on the “average” and below average homeowner and small business owner.

The really sad aspect about the municipal budget is that the possibility of spreading the tax load more fairly on those who can afford it was never discussed — unless it was in a closed door session.

The individuals we elected to council just went with the city management’s proposal. At this pace the city will need to find more public housing for people forced out of their homes.

What’s interesting is the mayor’s response to a question about the budget. Although the mayor said he was unable to review the document in advance, he said he took city administrator’s word on the matter.

Except for Dawn Luhning council has forgotten its obligation to protect the taxpayer from unfair treatment.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Police HQ’s Victim Services Unit welcomes new trauma dog to the team

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Sven brings a sense of calm when he works — he puts his nose or paws on people to comfort them — while he reduces the overwhelming feeling people have when they must speak with officers, she continued. The unit is excited that the dog brings a trauma-informed approach while he is another layer of support for Victim Services.

Sven will have to pass his judicial field and public access test yearly, while he requires regular training. According to one police service executive member, the dog is even better trained than a typical police canine and knows more commands.

Sven is named after a character in the children’s movie Frozen, Roney said. Since he loves kids, he gravitates toward them first when offering support. However, his handlers can direct him to adults first if they require emotional comfort.

Roney acknowledged that not everyone wants a dog touching them, so those people could hold his leash while he sits nearby.

“We’re pretty excited because so far, he’s been pretty good,” she added.

ready supported five people.

“So he hit the ground runnin’,” Roney chuckled. “We’re pretty excited about the support that we can give the community.”

Police Chief Rick Bourassa expressed his appreciation for Sven and joked that the organization is thrilled that the dog is black because officers used an enormous amount of lint rollers to remove the blonde hairs that Kane left behind.

Assaults involving weapons now more common, says police chief

Police are seeing a change in the type and severity of violence being used against people, with officers responding to more incidents of assault that include weapons, the chief says.

The Moose Jaw Police Service responded to 293 incidents of assault from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30, an increase from 287 incidents during the same period last year, the November statistics show. This is an increase of six incidents or 2.1 per cent.

The statistics list different types of assaults, including sexual, common, assault with a weapon/cause bodily harm, aggravated and against police.

Aggravated assault is where someone intends to wound, maim or disfigure another person, Chief Rick Bourassa explained during the Board of Police Commissioners’ Dec. 8 meeting. This category sits at seven incidents versus four last year, a jump of three or 75 per cent.

“We investigate all of those, and in most of these cas-

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

es, we are able to lay charges because the person is identified,” he added. “Overall, we are never pleased to see any incidents of violence against the person.”

Year-to-date, the number of crimes against people is 417, compared to 435 last year, a decrease of 4.1 per cent.

Data comparing this year to last shows:

Homicide: 1 / 0

· Attempted murder: 2 / 2

Assaults (all): 293 / 287

Robbery: 8 / 5

Threats under section 810: 75 / 52

Domestic disputes: 91 / 159

Total: 417 / 435

Meanwhile, Bourassa said crimes against property have been “relatively stable” year over year with a slight 1.4-per-cent increase, although business break-ins remain a problem. Year-to-date, there have been 67 such incidents compared to 42 last year, a jump of 59.5 per cent.

Data on property crimes this year versus last year show:

Break-ins (business, residence, other): 262 / 300

· Motor vehicle theft: 61 / 55

Theft over $5,000: 20 / 17

Theft under $5,000: 801 / 673

Arson: 8 / 29

· Mischief over $5,000: 309 / 358

· Total: 1,898 / 1,872

Other data comparing this year to last year shows:

Impaired driving: 118 / 121

Failing to comply with court orders: 772 / 807

Vehicle collisions over $1,000: 250 / 204

Provincial liquor infractions: 141 / 161

Summary offence tickets: 1,285 / 1,653

Drugs (cocaine, marijuana, meth, other): 33 / 65

The next Board of Police Commissioners meeting is Thursday, Jan. 12.

Sven, a three-year-old black Labrador retriever, spent time visiting with the Board of Police Commissioners during their recent meeting. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Police seized 1,765 grams of drugs, over $13K in cash during recent operations

The Moose Jaw Police Service seized thousands of grams of drugs, several firearms and thousands of dollars in cash during two major operations within the past couple of months.

During an operation on Oct. 21, the police seized a restricted handgun — which accused Jirard Saddleback fired at them before his arrest — with a prohibited, extended magazine holding 30 rounds of ammunition. Saddleback allegedly did not possess a valid firearm licence to have this handgun.

After further investigations, police confirmed that the handgun had been stolen. Besides the gun, officers also seized 855 grams of methamphetamine and $6,620 in cash.

The police service’s tactical response team (TRT) worked with the Regina Police Service SWAT unit to

Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Notes

The next Board of Police Commissioners meeting is Thursday, Jan 12, 2023

Many police officers have racked up significant overtime during the past three months as they have helped support two high-profile investigations that nabbed several offenders and quantities of drugs and guns.

As of Nov. 30, the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) had spent $7,428,562.09 on salaries, which represented 84.17 per cent of what it budgeted this year.

That amount also included overtime paid to members for supporting two major operations: one on Oct. 21 that led to the arrest of Jirard Saddleback — who shot at police — and another on Nov. 30 that led to the arrest of Zackery Marckoski — the main focus — along with Jessica Proulx, Michael Joel McKechnie, and Nicole Belsher.

“People don’t realize this: we don’t work Monday to Friday. We work 24/7/365. Our police service never closes its doors,” Chief Rick Bourassa said during the Board of Police Commissioners’ Dec. 8 meeting while discussing the agency’s monthly budget.

Many members — including executives — were working either behind the scenes or on the front lines to

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

ensure the community’s safety, the MJPS said on its Facebook page. Both groups also had help from patrol members, the K-9 unit, the criminal investigation section (CIS), dispatchers, administration members, negotiators and a drone pilot.

The police service released a photo from the drone on its Facebook page showing officers arresting Saddleback. While this photo was new to local media, the organization had provided it to Regina media in October.

Meanwhile, the police completed a planned operation on Nov. 30 that involved patrol members, the K-9 unit, CIS, and the TRT. This operation resulted in police seizing:

320 grams of methamphetamine

· 50 grams of cocaine

153 grams of fentanyl

387 grams of an unknown powder · $6,835.25 in cash

Two sawed-off shotguns

One rifle

Multiple rounds of ammunition

Police arrested Zackery Marckoski — their main focus — along with Jessica Proulx, 21, Michael Joel McKechnie, 39, and Nicole Belsher, 37.

Police service racked up major overtime during two recent investigations

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

support the Oct. 21 operation, while they also had very little sleep that weekend because it was a significant incident, he continued.

“Sometimes when people are comparing our demands to other demands, there are very few places that are open every day of the week, night, weekends, holidays — we never get to take a break and close the doors,” Bourassa said, possibly referring to city council’s decision to reject the agency’s 2023 budget because of its costs.

If the police service wanted to put one officer on the street for 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, it would need five officers to accomplish that because of holidays and leaves, he continued. This is a significant cost that he thought was lost during budgetary discussions.

“Because of that (reality of) never being able to stop everything and close the doors, our costs will always be higher,” Bourassa added. “It never stops for us; we never have any downtime.”

Besides overtime, other expenses that continue to

put pressure on the police budget include vehicle maintenance and fuel costs, along with challenges of acquiring new cruisers, the chief said.

The budget showed that as of Nov. 30, the police service had spent $272,076.91 on vehicle repairs, which was $52,076.91 — or 123.67 per cent — over budget.

Meanwhile, the MJPS received $809,000 from the provincial government for six police positions for the 2022-23 fiscal year. Bourassa pointed out those positions are not new; instead, the funding simply supports existing officers working in traffic services or with the Police and Crisis Team (PACT) unit.

Since the province operates on a fiscal year — and the MJPS operates on a calendar year — some funding will be used in 2023.

“It’s (the funding) is up about $2,000 per member or $12,000 in total from last year. (So) it’s better than nothing,” Bourassa added. “It doesn’t cover the full cost of those positions, but it does cover the lion’s share.”

Officers facing more stress due to increase in call volume, chief says

Police are experiencing more stress because of increased call volumes of nearly 20 per cent, but the police chief believes that pressure should lessen once the agency is fully staffed by late 2023.

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) responded to 17,630 calls for service from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30, compared to 14,851 calls during the same period last year, the November statistics report shows. This is an increase of 2,779 calls year-over-year or 18.7 per cent.

About 25 per cent of calls are crime-related, while 75 per cent is for other disruptions, Police Chief Rick Bourassa explained during the Board of Police Commissioners’ Dec. 8 meeting.

The organization expects by Dec. 31 to see call volumes about 20 per cent higher over last year, which is already evident in the nearly 3,000 extra calls received, he continued.

Calls have risen because most people stayed home during the pandemic, so there was less to which officers responded, Bourassa pointed out. Now that people are active again, cops are pursuing more incidents.

“We’re also a little more diligent in making sure those calls are included in our system. There were times when we caught some things not being captured … ,” he said, noting this year could be the highest in a decade.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Commissioner Mary Lee Booth expressed concern about the increase. She noted that it is also layered with some of the most difficult situations police face involving guns, gangs and drugs.

“We need to … make sure that we are resourcing enough to our police service to ensure our officers are feeling safe and healthy and supported,” she said, pointing to the “severe shortage” of health-care workers as an example. “I’m feeling a little bit alarmed that we don’t want to go there in our police service here.”

When asked what the average time was that police spend on a call, Bourassa said it’s difficult to track, while that number wouldn’t provide much detail anyway.

One incident could take 20 minutes, while another — such as a major investigation — could take weeks and months. The number of officers working on the same case or incident would also have to be included.

“It tells us some things about workload and about demand, but there would have to be a different level of analysis, which I’m hoping, when we move to our new recording system and computer system … we will be able to run some of those reports and get some clear answers,” he added.

It’s evident that police have a heavier workload considering there have been nearly 3,000 extra calls this year,

said commissioner Darrell Markin. He thought the agency needed an extra officer to handle that.

Members are facing extra pressure with the higher call volume, which is equal to about eight more calls per day, Bourassa replied. Those calls add up over time, as do the related investigations and overall stress.

The chief added that the agency should be fully staffed by December 2023, which should take off pressure from front-line officers.

The other issue is that the data doesn’t reflect officers being proactive — such as leading parades — or pursuing enforcement-driven activities, such as setting up radar or delivering documents, said Supt. Devon Oleniuk. Other daily activities are not logged either.

The public has a misconception about how police operate, he continued.

About 20 to 30 years ago, people thought police were “driving around” if their lights and sirens were not activated. But that approach has changed because of amendments to The Traffic Safety Act, which means cops must be cautious about using those tools.

“Quite often, we are attending to complaints and calls for service,” Oleniuk added, “but we don’t go with lights and sirens in the fashion it used to be decades ago.”

Province provides $809K to support policing projects in Moose Jaw

The provincial government is providing the Moose Jaw Police Service $809,000 for policing initiatives, including supporting four existing officer positions and adding two new traffic-related positions.

The Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety announced on Dec. 7 that it would provide $449,000 to the City of Moose Jaw through the municipal police grants program in 2022-23. This grant will fund four existing police positions in the community.

The money enhances the continuous delivery of targeted policing initiatives, such as the Police and Crisis Team (PACT). This unit comprises police officers and mental health workers who provide an integrated and co-ordinated response to people experiencing a mental

By Moose Jaw Express staff

health crisis in the community.

Meanwhile, Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) is providing $360,000 to support two new positions with the Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan initiative.

This brings the total funding to $809,000 for six positions during 2022-23.

The province is pleased to support the Moose Jaw Police Service on its important law enforcement initiatives, MLA Greg Lawrence said on behalf of Minister Christine Tell. This funding ensures that the MJPS has the necessary resources to provide safety solutions for the community.

“By enhancing traffic safety and mental health sup-

ports across our city and region, the resources provided through this provincial funding enable the Moose Jaw Police Service to continue advancing our shared vision of safe, harmonious and inclusive communities,” said Police Chief Rick Bourassa.

Mayor Clive Tolley thanked the provincial government for its continued support of the municipal police grant program, noting the MJPS uses the money to keep residents safe.

Since 1998, the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety has provided funds to police services across the province through the municipal police grants program. The program supports 141 municipal police positions and targeted law enforcement initiatives.

Drugs that police seized during an October operation. Photo courtesy Facebook

CITY HALL BUDGET TALKS

The Events Centre will spend more than $700,000 next year through its capital budget to address some long-outstanding issues, such as installing steel rigging so it can attract more musicians and bands.

The venue — which first opened in 2010 — presented its 2023 capital budget during city council’s Dec. 5 budget meeting, with the original goal of spending over $800,000 to address sound system upgrades, phase 2 of its LED lighting retrofit, various building upgrades and installation of steel rigging.

However, after discussing the projects, council instead voted:

· 5-2 in favour of the venue spending $45,000 on building upgrades instead of $90,200; Councillors Jamey Logan and Kim Robinson were opposed · 4-3 in favour of pushing the LED retrofits into 2024 and 2025; Councillors Heather Eby, Crystal Froese and Robinson were opposed

Unanimously in favour of taking $145,000 from the Mosaic Place and Yara Centre Reserve Fund to upgrade the sound system, with an equal amount being drawn down from the moderate-term portfolio investment

6-1 in favour of the venue spending $514,839 to install the steel rigging, with the total cost over two years being $1,029,678; Logan was opposed

“The sound system and rigging need to be looked at right away … ,” said Coun. Dawn Luhning.

She urged council to speak with the community’s two MLAs about the province’s imposition of PST on tickets because that has discouraged shows from coming

Budget 2023: Event Centre to install steel rigging as part of $700K in capital projects

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

here. She also noted that Saskatchewan is the only province to do this.

Sound system

The building has an original integrated sound system with components in the main arena, the curling rink and the conference centre, although the latter two are standalone systems, explained Ryan MacIvor, OVG360 general manager.

All three systems are failing while the components are past their life, parts are becoming unavailable and the speakers don’t work cohesively, he continued. Furthermore, the Warriors installed a system that sometimes conflicts with the original.

The total upgrade cost is $265,000, including $145,000 next year and $120,000 in 2024.

Upgrading the system’s “brain” is the No. 1 priority, MacIvor continued. The speakers will remain because they are in good condition and still at industry standards. However, they will be tuned since each is at a different volume, balance and level.

“This will provide a longevity for no failure (and) this will increase or make the sound better,” he stated.

MacIvor added that musicians and bands bring their own speakers and mix their own music, which is why it sounds better.

Steel rigging

The Multiplex was designed to have rigging steel, but it was cut to save money, MacIvor continued. The building is one of the last centres in Saskatchewan and Western Canada without this equipment, while its absence hinders more events from coming and makes set-

ting up longer.

Proper rigging would ensure a show can be set up within two to four hours and torn down within 1.5 to three hours, he said. Without the steel, it takes six to eight hours to set up, while the venue must rent multiple 80foot boom lifts to support shows.

It costs about $2,500 per boom lift over two days. On average, a show needs three boom lifts, which equals $7,500 per show or $60,000 per year with an average of eight shows.

MacIvor noted that these lengthy tear-downs delay artists from reaching their next location quickly, while the venue has lost at least four shows because of no steel rigging and lost revenue because it had to rent boom lifts.

The venue will start installing the rigging in May 2024, while it expects to finish that August.

Venue upgrades

The venue upgrades include adding two security gates on the concourse for $11,500 to ensure people can’t access the suite level on non-game days; installing new kitchen range hoods for $25,000 to address deficiencies, mismatched equipment and safety issues; and upgrading shower floors in six dressing rooms for $8,500.

The accordion-like security gates are particularly important because thieves have stolen equipment that belongs to the building and on-site contractors, while employee safety also needs to be addressed, said MacIvor.

“We are (also) experiencing an increased traffic of people using the bathrooms, but not necessarily for the use of bathrooms,” he added.

Budget 2023: Council votes down police budget due to its pricey request

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) and Board of Police Commissioners will have to amend the organization’s budget after city council shot it down because members thought it was too pricey.

During the Dec. 7 budget meeting, council voted 4-3 against the MJPS’s net operating budget request of $11,781,059, of transferring $110,000 from the city’s traffic safety reserve to the organization for 2022 and 2023 for traffic safety initiatives, and its capital budget request of $235,000.

In favour were Councillors Doug Blanc, Heather Eby and Dawn Luhning, while opposed were Mayor Clive Tolley and councillors Jamey Logan, Crystal Froese and Kim Robinson.

Instead, council voted unanimously to refer the budget back to the police board for further review and to consider using funding from the automated speed enforcement reserve and leaving vacant positions unfilled.

“Now what? In my 19 years here I have never had it happen so I’m not sure what the process is because this crew did not send it back to the (Moose Jaw) Police Service,” said Luhning, also the chair of the police board.

The police want an extra $612,933 in net operating funding next year, which equals a 1.84-per-cent increase in municipal property taxes, she pointed out.

One percentage point equals $330,701 in municipal taxation.

The police are facing many pressures that never re-

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

ally stop, she continued. The organization is “looking to simply maintain” its services and needs the requested funding.

Council could use the traffic safety reserve to fund the police budget because that account is for community safety, she added. Considering there will be roughly $450,000 in there by December 2023, council could apply $335,000 and lower the proposed tax hike to 0.84 per cent.

That is possible, but the police board would have to amend the budget because it controls that, said finance director Brian Acker. The board would then have to resubmit the document for approval.

“The only caution with using those funds is that we (don’t) have that money available every year. There are certainly other demands on that traffic safety reserve … ,” he added.

Any unused police money — including unspent salaries — goes into the organization’s accumulated surplus account.

The police service has an authorized strength of 64 officers, but some positions are vacant — 59 officers are working — and those salaries aren’t being paid, said Froese. Furthermore, it takes a year to train a new member — or longer based on police school spaces — while the organization is still budgeting for those empty positions.

“I’m a strong proponent of them … but I’m also kind of concerned because of the issues Chief (Rick) Bourassa talked about with getting officers into police school and

up to speed,” she continued.

While council doesn’t have the power to allocate the police service’s money, Froese thought the organization could put the money into other resources until it reached its full complement. It could then ask for funding next year.

The police are responding to more incidents involving firearms today than 15 years ago, said Blanc, a police commissioner. He pointed out that recent police statistics show there have been 11 assaults on officers this year.

“I wish we wouldn’t have that (weapons) in our city. I remember growing up in our city and never having to worry about that … ,” he continued. “Now it seems to be more and more and more.”

It’s alarming to hear during monthly board meetings about what police face daily, Blanc added, while he wished the public knew more of their struggles.

Logan fully supported the police and agreed that more officers are needed — “the more, the merrier” — including in Crescent Park. However, since the organization completed its budget in October, he thought it could find further savings, especially since not all recruits were training yet.

Eby wished the organization’s requested increase was 1.5 per cent because she would feel more comfortable. Meanwhile, she thought if council asked the police to reduce its budget, then the fire department should do the same thing.

“I don’t think we can ask one department and not the other,” she added. “… I don’t see anything glaring in the police budget.”

The next budget meeting has yet to be determined.

NOTICE OF ABANDONMENT OF POLL VILLAGE OF TUXFORD

Whereas a poll is not required pursuant to The Local Government Election Act For the offices of: Councillor: Village of Tuxford

I hereby give notice that no voting for the offices will take place and that the following persons are elected by acclamation:

Todd Schoenroth – Councillor

Dated at Moose Jaw, this 9th day of December, 2022.

Raena Wilk-Morhart

Returning Officer

The next budget meeting was WEDNESDAY, DEC 7 The next regular council meeting is MONDAY, DEC 12.

CITY HALL BUDGET TALKS

The next budget meeting was WEDNESDAY, DEC 7 The next regular council meeting is MONDAY, DEC 12.

Taxpayers will fork out an extra seven per cent on their water and sewer utility bills next year, after city council narrowly approved hiking the utility costs.

During a special budget meeting on Dec. 5, council voted 4-3 to increase the waterworks utility rate by four per cent effective Feb. 1, 2023; voted 4-3 to increase the sanitary sewer utility rate by three per cent effective Feb. 1, 2023; and voted unanimously to increase the interest rate for payments made by annual instalments to seven per cent from four per cent.

Councillors Kim Robinson, Crystal Froese and Dawn Luhning were opposed to the first two motions.

The waterworks increase would add an extra $2.86 per month or $34.32 per year to bills, while the sanitary sewer increase would add an extra $1.72 per month or $20.64 per year to bills.

That would be an extra $4.58 per month or $54.96 per year for both utilities.

Taxpayers will pay a new annual infrastructure levy next year of $100 to support

parks and recreation upgrades, which means most annual utility bills will increase by $154.96. Since homeowners continue to pay the annual $100 infrastructure levy for the cast iron replacement program, those bills could increase to $254.96.

Future water needs

Both utilities face over $86 million in capital renewal costs during the next five years, including over $20 million to replace the Crescent View lift station and roughly $29 million to continue replacing cast iron pipes, explained finance director Brian Acker.

The utility must also pay over $30 million in debt from past infrastructure renewal.

One reason the water hike is one-percent higher than sanitary sewer is because of the higher cost of water from the Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Plant due to its plant renewal project, he pointed out.

Meanwhile, increasing interest rates for the instalment payment rate program is because the current rate is four per cent, lower

than current national interest rates, Acker said. Since the current prime lending rate is 5.95 per cent — and is expected to increase — city administration believes hiking the city’s instalment rate to seven per cent is appropriate.

Council discussion

“It would be nice one year if we didn’t need water and sewer rate increases, but I understand why we do,” said Coun. Heather Eby. “I remember in the past doing nine per cent (increases), so four per cent feels a little easier but not easier at all.”

While these increases will support ongoing and future underground work, many people don’t understand that they are not just paying for water to wash their dishes or make iced tea, she added. Instead, they are also paying for the accompanying infrastructure work, which is expensive.

City administration hopes to reach a point where it doesn’t have to increase utility rates yearly, said Acker. While there always seems to be a major project upcoming, city hall hopes to eventually freeze rates for

a few years.

“We’re living in really challenging times too, just for average taxpayers. That is one of my concerns as it was last year, and it’s even tighter this year,” said Coun. Crystal Froese.

Many residents are struggling to pay the bills, which won’t be helped with council adding an extra $154.96, she added. While she understood how important improving infrastructure was — cast iron is the community’s biggest renewal project ever— she wanted council to remember that not everyone could afford the increases.

“It is a tough time for everyone, but the city’s not immune to that. We, unfortunately, have to pay the same increase as everyone else has to pay,” said Coun. Jamey Logan. “Our water supply is going up, (the) power supply is going up (and) energy (is increasing). We are not sitting here looking to harm homeowners.”

It’s important to fund these projects, otherwise, they face future financial shortfalls, he added.

The live events industry may slowly be returning to pre-pandemic levels, but the Events Centre still needs additional financial support to keep the lights on and pay its employees.

During its 2023 budget meeting on Dec. 5, city council voted 5-2 to provide the venue — formerly Mosaic Place — with a subsidy of $985,000 and use $50,000 from the food and beverage loan repayment to reduce the subsidy amount.

Furthermore, it agreed to establish a line of credit (LOC) of $500,000 from the municipality’s own funds so the Multiplex could address chronic cash flow issues — like payroll and paying vendors — and repay when no longer required, while the venue must pay interest on the outstanding monthly balance at Scotiabank prime interest rate less 1.60 per cent.

Councillors Dawn Luhning and Jamey Logan were opposed.

Budget projections

The Events Centre projects revenues to be $2.3 million and expenses over $3 million, leaving a net operating loss of $727,336, a council report said. Including the management incentive and fees for food and venue increases the deficit — and required subsidy — to $985,000.

In comparison, the subsidy this year was $918,294. Therefore, next year’s subsidy is increasing by seven per cent.

Council discussion

By providing a LOC, Luhning was concerned that that would embolden other organizations — like the Cultural Centre — to ask for something similar. She thought it was appropriate for the Events Centre to ask council for extra cash flow-related money so residents knew about it.

Coun. Crystal Froese understood the need for the LOC, while she noted that this wasn’t the first time council had financially supported an organization, pointing to the municipal airport with its runway project.

The Multiplex has regularly asked council at the 11th hour for extra cash flow-related funding, so the LOC ensures it doesn’t have to do that and can manage the financial ebbs and flows, she continued. Meanwhile, there is already transparency and accountability since council approves the venue’s budget.

“The Moose Jaw Events Centre is a completely different animal than any other organization we deal with,” Froese added. Revenues and expenses

Management company OVG360 expects revenues to increase in four areas, explained general manager Ryan MacIvor, including:

Ice rental rates by a minimum of three per cent

Ticketing fees from changes to the ticketing model

· Food and beverage net revenues of $294,905

· More partners using the SaskTix.ca program and more ticketing system advertising

Meanwhile, the venue expects costs to increase in 14 areas, such as:

Utility increases due to higher ice plant use from August to April Increases to CPP and EI employer contributions

· Wage increases by two per cent Inflation on materials and supplies

Loss of $125,000 from no naming rights partner; if a partner is found, that money will reduce the subsidy to $860,000

Overhaul of the ice plant compressors — which are from the former Crushed Can rink

Training and meetings/conferences being re-added to department budgets after two pandemic years

Staffing increases in several departments

PST on event tickets

Since the Events Centre doesn’t have a capital replacement reserve fund, OVG360 recommends that council create a 20-year capital plan to replace items such as the roof, ice plant, chillers and HVAC units, MacIvor said.

Meanwhile, cash flow issues continue to challenge the venue, considering there is no naming rights partner who can provide $125,000 per year, while unfunded Ticket Rocket gift card redemptions are also affecting operations, he continued.

“The Moose Jaw Events Centre remains in a recovery phase, but (we) are encouraged that the business will grow in 2023 … ,” MacIvor added. “We are excited for the next several years for the MJEC, as we see a positive future ahead of us.”

Administration’s view

Finance director Brian Acker explained that since the city owns the building, the line of credit will not financially affect the municipality’s debt limit or operating budget. Instead, the municipality

is simply extending money and charging interest based on what its bank accounts earn.

However, if the venue cannot repay the LOC, that money becomes an extra subsidy payment.

Meanwhile, once the Multiplex starts having surpluses, it can put that money into retained earnings to address cash flow problems. This ensures it won’t run out of money before its quarterly payments arrive.

It makes sense for the Events Cen-

tre to have a LOC because it won’t have to continually ask council — sometimes at the 11th hour — for additional money, Acker said. The LOC allows the venue to build retained earnings, so it won’t need the LOC later.

“My only caution is if that’s not the case and it runs into difficulties and further deficits, that could eat up the line of credit and be gone,” he continued. “The reality is the City of Moose Jaw would pay the subsidy anyway to keep the Events Centre operating.”

Jason

Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

CITY HALL BUDGET TALKS

The next budget meeting was WEDNESDAY, DEC 7 The next regular council meeting is MONDAY, DEC 12.

City administration intends to draw down $2,035,716 next year from the city’s investment portfolios to help fund capital projects that focus on areas such as roads and green spaces.

From the long-term portfolio, administration plans to withdraw $1,158,187 from the capital expenditure fund equity, $658,465 from the land development fund, $495 from the Snowbirds’ scholarship fund and $113,000 from the perpetual care fund for cemetery maintenance.

From the moderate-term portfolio, administration will withdraw $87,637 from the land development fund and $17,932 from other funds held in trust.

City hall will direct $1.904 million of earnings to the general capital budget to support capital projects in transportation and parks and recreation, a budget report explained.

If any shortfalls arise from next year’s drawdowns, city administration will adjust the portfolios by reducing future years’ drawdown requests to maintain the original principal investment over the long term, the report continued. To preserve the portfolios’ equity component, all drawdowns in 2023 will come from maturing GICs.

As of Oct. 31, RBC Dominion Securities managed $93,929,661 in municipal investments, including $74,347,567 in long-term portfolios and $21,979,940 in moderate-term portfolios.

Meanwhile, the city is holding $2,715,995 of longterm portfolio money in its operating account because the account has a rate of return at 4.35 per cent, which brings the total amount invested to $96,645,656, the report said.

In comparison, year-to-date, the long-term portfolio has returned minus-10.53 per cent and the moderate-term portfolio has returned minus-5.84 per cent.

During its Dec. 5 budget meeting, council unanimously voted to approve the drawdown of $2,035,716 for next year.

“The drawdown in 2022 is significantly less than it was in 2021 — over $600,000 (less) if my calculator worked correctly,” said Coun. Heather Eby. “So that just says to me that we have less money to spend, so we need to spend less money. And we need to be aware that there is a finite amount of money coming off those reserves, even though it’s great to have it.

“Hopefully, we’ll see those markets rebound in the next few years and get the money back up there.”

Finance director Brian Acker showed two slides with information about the money the municipality had invested in 27 categories. The total amount at the end of 2021 was $126,726,082, versus $116,371,445 at the end of 2020.

For example, the Moose Jaw Police Service has an accumulated surplus account where its excess reve-

nues go. At the end of 2021, there was $170,275 versus $380,787 at the end of 2020.

Other notable accounts included (2021 vs. 2020): Landfill closure and post-closure: $5.6 million /$5.2 million

Snow removal: $906,943 / $906,943

Traffic safety reserve: $2.2 million / $1.5 million

Parking reserve: $2.07 million / $1.87 million

The money for the parking reserve has come from the sale of city parking lots during the last 20 years, Acker said.

There is also an Employees Disability and Death Benefit Fund, which had $1.3 million at the end of 2021 versus $1.2 million at the end of 2020.

The city uses this to support firefighters either injured or killed on the job, said Acker. The municipality pays 70 per cent of an employee’s benefits over 20 years for an injury or to the family should a firefighter die on duty.

Most money is invested in medium- or long-term funds, with the long-term money held “pretty much indefinitely” and medium-term funds invested for five to 10 years before being withdrawn, he continued.

City administration is being “quite conservative” next year with how much investment money it is withdrawing, Acker added.

The engineering department will soon issue tenders for constructing a new $26.6-million Crescent View wastewater lift station, an important piece of infrastructure that will enable the community to continue growing.

During its Dec. 5 budget meeting, city council voted unanimously to authorize engineering services to issue and award a tender for the construction of the lift station and associated infrastructure, with funding of $7,455,000, $9.6 million and $9.6 million phased in from 2023, 2024 and 2025.

“Certainly, it is a big project … . The beauty of what we’re proposing here is that this replacement will take us up to a population of 45,000,” said city manager Jim Puffalt. “And as you know, we’re very much in a growth spurt right now.”

This project is “desperately needed” to ensure Moose Jaw can continue to grow and prosper, he added. Without it, the municipality is asking for trouble with potential floods and constriction on growth.

“It (the project cost) is a big number,” observed Coun. Jamey Logan.

“This is one of those things that is absolutely essential to our city,” said Coun. Crystal Froese.

“I have toured this lift station and it is past its due date. It kind of reminds me of when I first toured the reservoir, and I was kind of nervous when I was in that building as well,” she added. “So now we have a much more updated, modern facility that will last us years and years.”

City hall retained engineering firm AECOM Canada Ltd. in August 2021 to help replace the wastewater lift station, located at the east end of Manitoba Street East adjacent to the Moose Jaw Creek, the budget report explained. The city built the life station in 1961 and last upgraded it in 1991.

“The city-wide wastewater collection system is conveyed to this station and then pumped to a grit building at the headworks of the city’s wastewater treatment plant (WWTP),” the report noted.

The lift station is below the required capacity to handle water surcharges, which leads to flooding of the grinder room during major rainstorms while it is past its life expectancy, requires extensive and expensive repairs, is incorrectly configured for grit removal after pumping and is restricting the city’s growth, continued the report.

AECOM has recommended replacing the lift station

to function as a WWTP headworks building by providing full-flow screening and grit removal. The main factors influencing design are pumping capacity, screening, grit removal and sewage receiving location, practical considerations with retrofitting an existing building or constructing a new one, and regulatory requirements.

The engineering department will issue the tender next year and start construction immediately because the design is ready, said director Bevan Harlton. It will also award the tender regardless of whether it has federal funding; the project should be finished by 2026.

Pre-pandemic, the federal government usually informed city hall within three to six months about whether its funding applications were successful, Harlton continued. The department is still waiting to hear back about a submission submitted in July, so there is a risk with the project’s funding.

City hall hopes Ottawa will contribute at least $23 million to the project.

The new lift station will be constructed at the same location as the old one, while the old one will be decommissioned and demolished, he added.

Transit users will fork out more money come the new year because bus fares are increasing to keep pace with inflation and repair costs and to remain competitive with other municipal transit services.

Effective Feb. 1, 2023, city hall plans to increase regular transit fares to $3.25 per trip from $2.25 per trip.

It also plans to increase paratransit fares to $2.50 per trip from $1.50 per trip effective Feb. 1, 2023, and then hike it again to $3.25 per trip from $2.50 per trip effective Jan. 1, 2024.

This increase in 2023 is expected to generate an additional $80,000 in revenue, while an extra $10,000 will likely be generated in 2024 after the second paratransit increase.

Bus pass costs will remain unchanged, with student rates at $65 per month, adult rates at $80 per month, seniors’ rate at $44 per month and the discounted rate at $25 per month.

During its Dec. 7 budget meeting, council voted 6-1 to implement these changes, with Coun. Crystal Froese opposed.

Council discussion

Many residents who use the bus tend to be low-income people who use cash, so spending $80 per month on a pass could be a stretch for them, said Froese.

“I know people are feeling things financially in all kinds of places. We are upping the water rates (and) we’re

upping the sewer rates,” she added. “People who ride the bus don’t normally have other modes of transportation.”

Many people have asked for Saturday transit service — especially in the winter — but council is already heavily subsidizing the week-day service, said Mayor Clive Tolley. Since a bus pass is more economical than cash, he thought it could attract more riders.

“And in this weather, it should be used a lot. It’s something that is underused in the community,” he continued. “… when so few people are riding it at certain times, it alarms citizens to see three people on the bus.”

The lack of use is concerning and more people should use it, agreed Coun. Heather Eby. She thought it was “crazy” how much the municipality is subsidizing this program, while if council didn’t increase transit costs, it would have to pass them onto everyday taxpayers via a tax increase.

“Maybe we’re between a rock and a hard place, but it’s the cost of doing business,” Eby added. “And transit is an expensive business and we’re committed to it. So, I feel it’s the right thing to do.”

Reasons for increases

Fares are below 2017 levels and an increase would address higher costs for fuel, maintenance and fleet replacement, explained Darrin Stephanson, director of public works. Equipment replacement costs have also risen between 25 per cent and 33 per cent during the last

three years.

City hall estimates that it will subsidize bus service this year by 73 per cent and 64 per cent next year, he added.

A budget report highlighted that of six municipalities, Yorkton charges $4 for fares, while Moose Jaw is the lowest at $2.25.

A viable bus service would help promote Moose Jaw when attracting labour, said city manager Jim Puffalt. Several large businesses want to expand, so there could be opportunities for higher cost recovery with more users.

City hall believes the price hike’s effect on paratransit customers will be minimal because most riders purchase passes, said Stephanson. Meanwhile, administration expects to see an increase in pass sales because of these changes.

“There is a chance this may reduce our ridership numbers, but that’s really anyone’s best guess about what that impact might be. But by a wide margin, we are the least expensive option for transportation,” he continued.

City administration will bring more data about 2023’s revenues and ridership to the 2024 budget meetings next December, Stephanson added. With the city heavily subsidizing the service, he also recommended that an annual fare review occur.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

CITY HALL BUDGET TALKS

The next budget meeting was WEDNESDAY, DEC 7 The next regular council meeting is MONDAY, DEC 12.

The 2023 budget proposes adding over $175 to taxpayers’ bills for the municipal tax hike, but if other utility and infrastructure levies are included, that number jumps to nearly $250.

City hall is proposing to increase municipal property taxes in 2023by 4.75 per cent or adding $6.32 per month or $75.84 per year for the “average homeowner,” the budget report says.

Furthermore, taxpayers are also facing a new infrastructure levy to support the parks and recreation department’s efforts to maintain its many venues. This would add an extra $8.33 per month or $100 per year to bills.

This levy is on top of the $100 per year infrastructure levy homeowners continue to pay to support the cast iron replacement program.

The proposed municipal tax hike and parks and rec levy add $14.64 per month or $175.84 per year to property bills.

“Even with these increases … the

average house in Moose Jaw would pay $1,773.77 on an annual basis (or) $147.81 per month in municipal property taxes, exclusive of (the) Moose Jaw Police Service 2023 increase, (which is) one of the lowest rates in Saskatchewan,” the budget document said.

All the services that residents expect and enjoy — such as fire, police, snow removal, pools, arenas, concerts, soccer pitches, ball diamonds, pathways, parks, recreation, economic development, and upgrades to parks and rec venues — will still cost less per month than what people pay for cable, cell phones, or the internet, the report continued.

“Truly the best deal in the city,” the document added.

Meanwhile, the Moose Jaw Police Service is asking for an operating budget increase of 5.49 per cent. This would increase municipal taxes by 1.84 per cent, or an extra $2.45 per month or $29.40 per year.

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

The budget also proposes increasing waterworks utility rates by four per cent and sanitary sewer utility rates by three per cent, a total of seven per cent.

The waterworks increase would add an extra $2.86 per month or $34.32 per year to taxpayers’ bills, while the sanitary sewer increase would add an extra $1.72 per month or $20.64 per year to bills.

That would be an extra $4.58 per month or $54.96 per year for both utilities.

However, homeowners will have some reprieve with recycling costs because the city recently signed a new contract that reduces taxes by 0.74 per cent, or $0.98 per month or $11.81 per year.

Combining the proposed municipal tax hike, the police service request, the water and sewer utility increases, and the parks and rec infrastructure levy, the total increase homeowners could face next year would be $21.68 per month or $260.16.

If the existing cast iron infrastructure levy is included, the annual property tax

G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

hike will increase to $360.16.

A one percentage point increase in the municipal mill rate next year is valued at $330,701, according to city administration.

During the first 2023 budget discussion meeting, all these potential increases caught the eye of Coun. Dawn Luhning, who pointed out that the overall municipal tax increase won’t be 4.75 per cent, but higher.

“There are some hefty, hefty expense asks in here. We really need to take a closer look … ,” she said.

“I think we need to keep this in perspective … . The parks and recreation levy is a steep ask,” she continued. I understand that facilities need to be maintained, but we are in a really high inflation period right now and costs are going up.”

Luhning added that there could be some projects council pushes into 2024 to ease the economic burden taxpayers face next year.

With a possible 4.18-per-cent property tax hike looming, city council has asked city administration to find “low-hanging fruit” in the 2023 budget to reduce that increase by one per cent.

During its Dec. 7 budget meeting, council voted 4-3 to have city administration bring a report to the next budget meeting — yet to be determined — with options to reduce the mill rate by one percentage point.

Councillors Jamey Logan, Doug Blanc, Heather Eby and Dawn Luhning were in favour, while Mayor Clive Tolley and councillors Crystal Froese and Kim Robinson were opposed.

Furthermore, council voted 6-1 to approve all third-party funding requests at the levels requested. The total operating funding request is $14,226,010, an increase of $680,544 from this year.

Tolley was opposed.

Also, council voted 6-1 to approve the Moose Jaw Public Library’s 2023 operating budget request of $1,259,441.

Luhning was opposed.

Also, council voted 4-3 against the Moose Jaw Police Service’s net operating budget request of $11,781,059, of transferring $110,000 from the city’s traffic safety reserve to the organization for 2022 and 2023 — a total of $220,000 — for traffic safety initiatives, and its capital budget request of $235,000.

In favour were Blanc, Eby and Luhning, while Tolley, Logan, Froese and Robinson were opposed.

Instead, council voted unanimously to refer the budget back to the Board of Police Commissions for further review and to consider using funding from the automated speed enforcement camera reserve and leaving vacant positions unfilled. Cutting programs and services

Eby understood that city hall would have to eliminate programs and services to reduce spending by $330,701 — equal to one percentage point of taxation — while she realized inflation was increasing expenses.

However, she noted that residents are pushing council to do better.

“People that don’t read these reports or hear the conversations, they think there is some magic cuts that can be made. But I’m totally aware that it’s programs and services,” Eby said. “There is not one program or one service I think we should get rid of. But I think we need to show the

community what it would look like.”

Being fiscally conservative

Luhning agreed that it’s either raise taxes or cut programs and services. She noted that proposed expenses next year will be 2.9 per cent higher than revenues, which is why council is in this situation.

She pointed out that the $100 parks and recreation infrastructure levy would hike taxes to five per cent, while the updated police budget could lead to a 10-percent tax hike.

“We need to be better at being a little more conservative in these times … ,” she said. “I think we should consider taking a closer look at this budget, and I think it would be helpful if administration came back with options for reductions in areas so we can come in at a reasonable spot for the citizens of Moose Jaw.”

Council can’t keep asking residents to pay more, considering wages are not growing and people are cutting spending, Luhning remarked. Moreover, businesses are still struggling and the global economy is in trouble.

“There may be a little bit of fat in (the budget); I believe there is,” she added.

Using reserve money

People will struggle with just the water and sewer utility increases, Froese said. Another option council has is to pull money from reserves. While she knew that was unpopular, she thought past and present councils had managed that money well.

That option exists, but the money is for specific areas, said finance director Brian Acker. Furthermore, reserves can only be spent once — they are one-time expenses — and wouldn’t be available next year to subsidize the operating budget, while council would be in the same position as now.

“From my professional background and experience, I would be very cautious as a council to start that process because once you start that process of spending those reserves, there’s no stopping it,” he added.

“The City of Moose Jaw is in such a favourable position compared to 99.9 per cent of the (other) municipalities in Canada … . We have the lowest taxation rate in Canada. The reason we do is because we have those reserves.”

Council’s responsibility

Tolley didn’t support city administration finding savings because council

should do that. While he wasn’t comfortable with the proposed tax hike, he was satisfied that Moose Jaw had the lowest taxation in Canada.

“We do need to improve our rec facilities and we need fire and police,” he added. “I don’t see where cuts can be made, other than potentially we have a few less positions with the police department.” Low-hanging fruit

Logan agreed with Eby and Luhning, while he wasn’t interested in touching the reserves.

“I agree with Mayor Tolley saying it’s not fair to go back to administration, but all we are asking is for administration to take one last look for low-hanging fruit if something has been overlooked … ,” he said. “Let’s have one more kick at the can here.”

Jason

City hall honours 26 employees with service awards, retirement gifts

Recognition was the day’s theme as the City of Moose Jaw honoured dozens of employees with service awards and thanked several retiring this year.

The municipality held a luncheon on Dec. 7 at the Events Centre to recognize 26 people — with over 400 years of combined employment — with awards, including 20 employees for years of service, five for retirement and one for a special achievement award.

15 years

Staff whom the city recognized for their 15 years included Julie Fitzpatrick and Ryan Nelson with the information technology department; Lisa Eritz with parks and recreation; James Smith and Dayle Wilcox with the fire department (absent from the luncheon); Ryan Milne with public works and utilities (absent); and Terry Overs and Stevo Suzic (absent) with transit.

20 years

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Express

Staff the city recognized for their 20 years included Rod Ansell, Dustin Duzan, Craig Flanagan, Sterling Macdiarmid and Jeremy Sanderson with the fire department (all absent); Maxine Patterson with parks and recreation; and Jason Trzaskowski with public works and utilities (absent).

25 years

Staff whom the city recognized for their 25 years of service included Cathie Bassett and Kayne Hemsing with the fire department and Les Keays with public works and utilities.

30 years

Staff the city recognized for their 30 years included Kevin Englesman with parks and recreation (absent).

40 years

Staff whom the city recognized for their 40 years of service included Caroline Dreger in the mayor’s office. Dreger has served six mayors and four city managers since joining that department in 2001. She

started working at city hall in 1982 in the social services office on the fourth floor.

Retirements

Staff the city recognized because they are retiring included Brenda Hanson in engineering after 10 years; Hemsing with the fire department after 25 years; Miles Henrikson and Val St. Dennis with parks and recreation (both absent); and Suzi Watson with public works and utilities (absent).

Special achievement award

The city recognized Eritz with the special achievement award.

This award honours an employee who has contributed to the City of Moose Jaw or the community. The employee is to have provided exemplary service and dedication to the municipality or have extensive community involvement as a volunteer.

Eritz joined the parks and rec department in the fall of 2021 after coming over from the planning and development department, city hall explained. She played

a crucial role in helping deliver a record number of capital projects this past summer. She also took ownership of the successful delivery of the projects.

Some projects she shepherded included upgrades to the Moose Square playground, new pickleball courts, resurfacing of Crescent Park tennis courts, pathway upgrades in Crescent Park, installation of solar panels on three municipal buildings, new stand for the historic town bell, LED lights upgrades at Yara Centre, mechanical upgrades at the city complex, new air conditioning at city hall, a new boiler at Golden Ticket Sports Centre, roof replacements on several recreation arenas and venues, and others projects.

“No matter what the challenges in front of her, she always takes it on with a positive attitude (and) a smile on her face,” said parks director Derek Blais. “She’s an exceptional asset to the city and deserves to be recognized for this.”

Retail development boosts November building values

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Five commercial projects accounted for about one-third of November’s building permit values in Moose Jaw.

Leading the $840,000 commercial developments was a $390,000 alteration at Walmart followed by a $250,000 alteration for retail space at the Civic Cen-

tre Plaza on Main Street North.

Another $150,000 was for a retail/ wholesale outlet on the Canadian Tire complex with $30,000 for engineering at 551 Thatcher Drive East and $20,000 for improvements by a distillery at 1300 Lakeview Road.

Building permit values of $1.65 million in November were almost $4.5 million less than in November 2020.

Permits included three single-family residences worth $1.54 million.

Construction values to the end of November were up $1.54 million to

$64.45 million.

To date 25 residential units have been permitted worth $11.6 million compared with 37 units last year worth $13.46 million.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Cathie Bassett with the fire department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for her 25 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Ryan Nelson with the IT department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for his 15 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, HR director TJ Karwandy and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Kayne Hemsing with the fire department (second from right) receives a certificate and award because he is retiring this year after 25 years. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Firefighter Kayne Hemsing (second from right) receives a certificate and award for his 25 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Julie Fitzpatrick with the IT department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for her 15 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, IT colleague Ryan Nelson and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Brenda Hanson with the engineering department (second from right) receives a certificate and award because she is retiring this year after 10 years. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, engineering director Bevan Harlton and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Terry Overs with the transit department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for his 15 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, public works director Darrin Stephanson and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Lisa Eritz with the parks and recreation department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for her 15 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, parks and rec director Derek Blais and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Lisa Eritz (second from right) receives a special achievement award for her work with the city and in the community. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, parks and rec director Derek Blais and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Les Keays with the public works and utilities department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for his 25 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, public works director Darrin Stephanson and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Maxine Patterson with the parks and rec department (second from right) receives a certificate and award for her 20 years with the city. Presenters included, from left, city manager Jim Puffalt, parks and rec director Derek Blais and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Caroline Dreger with the mayor’s office (middle) receives a certificate and award for her 40 years with the city. Presenters included city manager Jim Puffalt and Mayor Clive Tolley. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

CP Holiday Train visits on a cold Moose Jaw evening

The Canada Pacific (CP) Holiday Train finally returned on December 6thas part of their cross-continent tour, after a threeyear hiatus due to the pandemic.

The holiday train continues to raise

WDM hosted their winter activity A Christmas Long Ago with lots of interactive learning experiences in their museum on Dec. 10th.

“This morning, we hosted our first public program A Christmas Long Ago, which is a program we have had here at our museum for about the last six years. This one is open to the general public,” WDM education programs coordinator Karla Rasmussen said.

She says lots of different age groups and demographics with several children, some middle-aged folks as well as some seniors came to attend the program. Through this program, she wants diverse groups of people to understand the traditions and celebrations of Saskatchewan known – past and present. She believes a lot can be learned from these kinds of events. “I really like to see the eyes light up when someone recognizes something, or they understand why we do things a certain way,” Rasmussen said.

She also said the Chamber of Com-

donations of food, money, and awareness for local food banks within communities throughout the CP network.

The train rolled into Moose Jaw’s CP Rail Yard around 4:30 p.m. highlighting its Christmas LED decorations and giving off a festive vibe.

Residents of Moose Jaw were delighted to see local Canadian musicians, award-winning Tenille Townes from Grand Prairie Alberta and Oji-Cree Toronto-based songwriter-singer Aysanabee.

These two musicians brought heartfelt performances, bringing joy to the residents of Moose Jaw on a freezing cold evening. Aysanabee performed with a Santa beard and Townes lifted everyone’s mood with her spectacular guitar-playing and hand-waving motions.

The Good-Buy to Hunger Campaign received a 10K dollar donation made to the Operations Manager of Moose Jaw Food Bank Terri Smith on behalf of the organizers, Grocery Manager of Moose Jaw

Co-op Timothy Wonsiak, Gabrielle Belanger Supervisor of CP Rail Moose Jaw and Mayor Clive Tolley.

Residents gathered around CP Rail Yard with their families and wrapped themselves in warm winter clothing, as CP

Representatives

merce was instrumental in bringing lots of new folks within the community of Moose Jaw to this program and this could them learn about Canadian traditions from the late 1800s all the way to the early 1900s.

“It’s quite a nostalgic program for many of them who did not grow up in 1910 but

heard stories from their parents or grandparents about those times.”

The program started with a story at grandmother’s house with lots of interactive Christmas gift box openings that contains wooden toy cars for children, long sock leggings for girls, mittens from

the early 1900s, and a razor sharpener for shaving beard which are still being used this day. The program then follows to the toy station where many old toys are displayed - wooden toys of various kinds like the chickens that peck grain, cup n’ ball and Jacob’s Ladder with a series of bricks held together with ribbons that flip-flap back and forth. The program ends with an interactive session of Christmas gift card making with buttons and yarns at the craft station. The attendees were able to take their gift cards home when they finished making them.

Rasmussen thought this was a neat little way for everyone to work on craft projects together and have a lot of fun.

WDM will host this activity again on Dec. 17 with their first session at 10 a.m. and the second session at 2 p.m. A virtual session will also be held on Dec. 23 at 7 p.m. Anyone who missed today’s session can join on the following dates.

“I really like the reactions from the varied audience,” Rasmussen said.

Rail welcomed guests with a token gift in appreciation of their attendance.

of the Food Bank were also there to receive any further donations to the Food Bank

The Canada Pacific (CP) Holiday Train entertained Moose Javians with a heart-warming performance Saddman Zaman - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw residents came out to enjoy the CP Holiday Train.

Tenille Townes entertains, playing her guitar on CP Holiday Train.

Gabrielle Belanger Supervisor of CP Rail Moose Jaw (left), Grocery Manager of Moose Jaw Co-op Timothy Wonsiak (center-left), Operations Manager of Moose Jaw Food Bank Terri Smith (center-right), and Mayor Clive Tolley (right).

Toronto-based Oji-Cree Songwriter-singer Aysanabee performing

Saddman Zaman - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Karla Rasmussen is talking about elements that can be found in a grandmother’s house in the 1800s and 1900s.

Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. is breaking boundaries in the AgTech world

Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. a start-up company is trying to break boundaries in the AgTech world with their innovation for measuring yield quality for farmers’ yield production.

“I grew up in a grain farming family. I have been exposed to the Agri. world for my entire life. I also had a start-up company that I grew and sold prior to this one, it was also an AgTech company,” CEO and Founder of Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. Kyle Folk said.

Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. officially launched in Nov. 2021, building a system able to grade the grain quality on the combine in real-time.

Their AgTech goal is to have information at-hand when the farmer needs it to make better marketing and precision agriculture decisions. The information on grain quality puts some power back into a farmer’s hands to make better decisions on marketing and precision agriculture. “Giving them the information of grain quality puts some power back into their hands, so they have information to be able to make decisions that otherwise they don’t have access to”.

He says the project is still in the development phase, although some real-life testing has already been done on his father’s farm. “We did some field trials on my dad’s farm on his two combines, and we will be doing field trials again in the upcoming harvest season,” he said.

Last year, the team had a successful field trial run for gaining information during harvest season, which only comes once a year. He stated that the tests must be made every year.

Folk says they are going to interact with farmers at trade shows and in many

other ways. “By advertising in any way that we can get in front of the farmers to start building up the interest, you are marketing a product; you ultimately hope that the farmers or your customers come to you, but there is always work that you have to do to get in front of them.”

Farmers make their decisions based on yield because yield is something that can be measured. What Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. is interested in is measuring the quality of that yield. Their process is to take a small sample from a very large volume and send those sample data to the prospective buyers to have them graded.

“If farmers could know the quality per acre the same way they know their yield per acre, they could start making decisions that benefit both of those factors and not

just the yield,” Folk concluded. Background

Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. made their early announcement of their start-up seed funding of about $4 million in investments for their agriculture technology which was funded by Conexus Venture Capital and their AgTech-focused Emmertech fund on Nov. 29.

Although Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. is still in their beta-testing phase, their AgTech is going to generate more data and confidence for farmers across the Prairies to market their grain products when they are trying to sell their crops. The development of this technology will give lab-quality, real-time grain quality analysis feedback right off their combine. This AgTech will provide a piece of more detailed in-

formation on the outcome of their farming and precision agriculture practices, ultimately created through their efforts which will help inform them on new ways where they can best think about changes; they want the input to allow them to optimize for the best quality of their grain crop.

“Kyle is truly the type of person that we seek out and to work with. We believe what they are building, which is a solution that helps the farmer understand grain quality at the combine level, directly within their precision mapping systems. I will say that he is the whole reason this is happening and certainly we are thrilled to be working with them and the whole team,” Managing Director of Conexus Capital inc. and Emmertech Sean O’Connor said.

He said Ground Truth Agriculture Inc.’s technology is the missing solution in precision agriculture where the farmers are doing a lot of different new practices around variable inputs and precision agriculture to optimize their yields around their cost base. It is fundamental to have grain-quality information which is critical to understand the quality of their crops for grain marketing purposes.

“Saskatchewan is poised to become a global leader in the AgTech space,” O’Conner said.

He believes Saskatchewan has the potential to become dominant in agriculture and for that, more investments are required for future agriculture innovation. “Our belief is the future of agriculture is going to see autonomous equipment become far more prevalent in a cultural space that we are going to see precision agricultural practices become more robust, and that we are going to arm the farmers across Canada.”

Ground Truth Agriculture Inc. a start-up company with latest innovation for measuring yield quality for farmers’ yield production Saddman Zaman - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Photograph provided by Conexus Venture Capital

7pm vs NEXT GAME FRIDAY, DEC 16TH

Warriors split weekend set with huge win on Teddy Bear Toss night, loss in Medicine Hat

Bear goal for 2022, as the 17-year-old forward finished off a run of pressure in the Hitmen zone by finding the puck in the slot, spinning and putting a shot on net that redirected and eluded Calgary goaltender Brayden Peters at the 7:59 mark of the first period.

The goal was the beginning of an offensive onslaught for the Warriors, as they’d take a 3-1 lead out of the first period, pour in six unanswered in the second and go on to a 9-2 victory in their highest offensive output of the season.

“I brought it in and around and passed out to Dents (captain Denton Mateychuk) who made the play in front. He took the shot, it bounced and came to me and I just turned around and fired ‘er and it went in,” Lolacher said in describing his goal.

“It feels good, it’s good for the community and everyone gets to celebrate throwing teddy bears on the ice, it’s just good for everyone and a lot of fun.”

While Lolacher had the most important goal of the night, no one had a bigger game than Martin Rysavy. The 19-year-old Czech forward scored his first two goals of the season and finished with five points in his best showing as a Warrior.

“It was incredible,” Rysavy said of his big night. “The last couple games I started building to the game I want to play, be really strong on the puck and get to the net. Tonight the whole game came together, and maybe the goals were a bit lucky off rebounds, but that’s kind of my game. This is a night I really needed to build momentum and I’m really happy it finally happened.”

The Warriors were able to get the job done with balance, as 14 players had at least one point on the night. That’s something Rysavy was quick to point out.

“It’s not just me, it’s all the guys,” Rysavy said emphatically. “We were battling for pucks, we were skating, we were trying to do all the good things. I was the guy with five points, but you look in that locker room, everyone helped me.”

Firkus and Josh Hoekstra scored the other first-period goals before Hoekstra, Brayden Yager, Eric Alarie and Lucas Brenton joined Rysavy in scoring in the second.

Korczak, Denton Mateychuk and

Sean Tschigerl and Carter Yakemchuk scored for Calgary, Peters had 13 saves in 28:40 and Ethan Buenaventura 15 saves in 31:20.

The following night, the shoe was on the other foot.

Despite a furious run of pressure in the opening seven minutes that saw Medicine Hat goaltender Beckett Langkow make a host of huge saves, it was the Tigers who did all the damage as the period progressed.

Shane Smith, Brendan Lee and Pavel Bocharov gave Medicine Hat a 3-0 lead thanks to three goals in just over three minutes midway through the first. Brayden Boehm then made it 4-0 4:35 into the second period.

Atley Calvert got one back before the second was out, but the Tigers had a response to everything the Warriors threw at them in the third.

Lee made it 5-1 26 seconds into the period before Firkus and Tomas Mrsic exchanged goals five minutes apart. Yager closed out scoring with 1:34 to play.

Ungar had 22 saves in goal, Langkow 25 stops for the Tigers.

Moose Jaw is now 18-10-0-0 on the season and sit four points back of Saskatoon for third in the Eastern Conference, one point up on Lethbridge.

The Warriors are back in action on Tuesday, Dec. 13 when they host the Spokane Chiefs before closing out their pre-Christmas schedule on Friday, Dec. 16 when they host the Regina Pats. Game times are 7 p.m. at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

Lochlacher scores Teddy Bear Toss goal for 2022 as Warriors go on to 9-2 win over Calgary Friday; Tigers score three in first, go on to 6-3 win in Medicine Hat Saturday Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Warriors gather for a team photo as the teddy bears are gathered for the Salvation Army.

The puck finds the back of the net early in the first period for the 2022 Teddy Bear Toss goal.

Teddy bears, toques and mittens rain down on the ice after the Warriors scored their first goal of the game Friday night.

Warriors newcomer Logan Dowhaniuk turned in a solid showing in his first game since the trade with Edmonton.

Harper Lolacher (centre) celebrates with teammates after scoring the Teddy Bear Toss goal for 2022.

Harper Lolacher is interviewed on ice by Marc Smith after scoring the 2022 Teddy Bear Toss goal.

Warriors overagers Logan Dowhaniuk, Ryder Korczak and Connor Ungar with a few of the donated critters.

Jagger Firkus nearly brought the circus to town with this scoring chance, but Brayden Peters would be able to make the save.

Warriors lose Jordan to season-ending injury, add defenceman Dowhaniuk in trade with Oil Kings

When Moose Jaw Warriors defenceman Cole Jordan suffered a knee injury during a game against the Prince Albert Raiders back on Nov. 15, there was a bit of waitand-see to figure out just how bad things actually were.

As time went on, the team went about their business, which included a trade to send 20-year-old forward Riley Ginnell to the Regina Pats shortly after overager Ryder Korczak was returned to the Warriors by the New York Rangers.

At the time, the team hoped to have their 20-year-old situation set, with Jordan, Korczak and standout netminder Connor Ungar taking up the Warriors’ three available spots.

A week later came the worst news possible.

Jordan -- who had played every game of his career with Moose Jaw since the 2019-20 season -- was going to be out for the season and would soon be having knee surgery.

The loss was a tough one for the team, especially given Jordan’s status as a defensive stalwart who had been drafted by the Calgary Flames and how he had fought through illness the previous season before successfully returning to the lineup.

“It’s almost a carbon copy of last year with (then Warriors 20-year-old) Logan Doust,” said Warriors head coach Mark O’Leary, referring to the Warriors forward who suffered a season-ending injury just before Christmas. “He’s a guy who’s a popular teammate and who really cares, and for things to end for him, it’s real tough. He battled through what happened

last year to get himself back and how he has this huge setback… Cole will handle this the right way, he’ll come back stronger for it and we certainly appreciate what he’s done for the Moose Jaw Warriors.”

O’Leary pointed to the value of players like Jordan, who as an overager was one of the team’s leaders both on and off the ice.

“You look at any good team, they’re built around the 19- and 20-year-olds, they’re so important,” he said. “Not only when things are going well, but when they aren’t. You lose a guy like Cole Jordan, it hurts, especially when he’s been here his whole WHL career, it’s heartbreaking for him and a tough pill to swallow for sure.”

Warriors general manager Jason Ripplinger carried a similar tone when talking about a player who grew into his game in the Warriors’ system.

“It’s disappointing for Cole, it’s disappointing for us as an organization,” Ripplinger said. “He’s had some bad luck, but he’s been a soldier for us, he’s come up the ranks here. They come in here as young boys and they leave as young men, and it’s nice when you can have a homegrown kid and not make moves and develop what we have.”

Jordan leaves the Warriors having played 114 games over four seasons, scoring eight goals and 35 points in that span.

“He’s disappointed, obviously, I feel for him and it’s a tough situation, but hopefully his surgery goes well and he recovers and he can get on with his career,” Ripplinger said.

Things are always moving forward in

the WHL, though, and on the morning of Dec. 7, Ripplinger found Jordan’s replacement.

The Warriors acquired overage defenceman Logan Dowhaniuk from the Edmonton Oil Kings in exchange for 18-year-old forward Nathan Pilling and a third-round pick in the 2025 WHL Prospects Draft.

“The whole thing with Logan is experience,” Ripplinger said. “He’s coming into our dressing room to be a leader, he wore a letter in Edmonton and he has that WHL playoff experience, obviously having won a league championship. So he knows what it takes to win, we’ll be looking for him to bring his winning culture

and how he does things to our organization.”

While losing Jordan came a tough time shortly after the Ginnell trade, it didn’t take Ripplinger long to formulate a plan.

“We kind of thought this could happen, and when we got Korczak back I felt we had enough depth up front that we didn’t need a 20-year-old forward,” Ripplinger said. “I wasn’t going to trade (Ungar) and losing Cole, our defence is our strength and I felt a 20-year-old d-man would be a better fit for us.”

Dowhaniuk, 5-foot-11 and 203 pounds, has been part of the Oil Kings since the 2017-18 campaign, having played 208 games and put up 17 goals and 83 points in that span. That includes eight goals and 36 points in 62 regular season games last season, followed by three goals and 11 points in 19 games during Edmonton’s championship run. This season, Dowhaniuk has a goal and 10 points.

Acquiring a player of Dowhaniuk’s calibre comes with a cost, and Ripplinger admitted it was hard to see Pilling go.

“(Dohwaniuk) is a guy we’ve seen play for a long time, and I reached out to Edmonton to see if they’d move him. They said they’d look at it if it was the right deal and they felt Nathan Pilling should be part of that deal,” Ripplinger said. “I wasn’t shopping him around, he was a listed guy, we recruited him and developed him and it was tough talking to him this morning, but we have to do what’s best for the organization.”

Winmar Warriors split weekend set with win over Notre Dame, lose to Regina

The Moose Jaw Winmar Warriors have been going through a stretch where you just don’t know what’s going to happen from game to game.

Win a game, lose a couple, win three, lose two, and so on.

And it doesn’t matter the calibre of their opponent, either -- one day they’re taking points off of the first-place Saskatoon Blazers, the next losing to the lastplace Tisdale Trojans.

This past weekend offered yet another example in that direction, as the Warriors dropped a 2-0 decision to the Regina Pat Canadians on Saturday night before rebounding with a 7-4 win over the Notre Dame Hounds less than a day later.

In a word, it comes down to consistency. And it’s something the Warriors continue to search for now that they’ve passed the midpoint of the season.

“Sometimes it’s tough, and with this group it seems like we’re getting the hang of it and then we have a tough one,” said Warriors head coach Trevor Weisgerber after the win over the Hounds. “Last night, we were happy with our effort, but we just have to capitalize on our chances. The consistency thing definitely has to be there. We’re just over halfway through the season now, so we have to get on a roll here and put some wins together and move up in the standings.”

In Regina, Koen Senft scored for the Pat Canadians in the first period, Noah Asmundson in the second, and that would be it for the offence on the night.

John Macpherson stopped all 27 shots he faced for the shutout, while Ryan Hicks turned in a solid game of his own with 30

saves.

Around 15 hours after that contest ended, it was a different story.

Moose Jaw scored four goals in the second period, building a 6-2 lead before settling for their three-goal win.

Liam Fitzpatrick had a pair of goals and three points on the night to move up to sixth in league scoring, while Austin Woodley, Jake Briltz, Wyatt LaCoste, Grady Hoffman and Connor Miller had their other markers. Ryder Knutson picked up three assists.

“I thought for the most part we played a pretty good 60 minutes,” Weisgerber said. “We put a lot of pressure on their D and I felt as a group we competed, where last night I thought we had some guys who had a rough game or took a night off. I was really happy with our effort, it was a quick turnaround from last night to this afternoon, the guys competed and battled and obviously, it paid off.”

One positive sign was how the Warriors generated chances once they had the lead, with the third period featuring all

sorts of scoring opportunities that they were able to cash in on.

“I think they were just trying to push to get back in the game, so it created some odd-man rushes for us and we capitalized on a couple of them, so it was good,” Weisgerber said. “We work on that stuff in practice, we’re trying to make plays and score some goals when we get those opportunities and at the end of the day it’s guys reading what they’re giving them and doing their job.”

Hicks had another solid game in goal, stopping 27 shots, while the Warriors had 35 shots on Mariko Bercier.

Moose Jaw is now 9-11-0-3 on the season, good enough for seventh place in the Sask Male AAA Hockey League, four points back of Prince Albert and a point up on Warman.

Next action for the Winmar Warriors is Tuesday, Dec. 13 when they travel to Saskatoon to face the Blazers.

Moose Jaw rolls to 7-4 win over Hounds on Sunday afternoon after losing close 2-0 decision to Pat Canadians Saturday Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Cole Jordan celebrates his first Western Hockey League goal during the 2019-20 season.

Knee injury ends overage defenceman’s final WHL season; Pilling sent to Edmonton in exchange for championship-winning rearguard Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Warriors goaltender Ryan Hicks finds the puck in traffic to make one of his 27 saves on the afternoon.

Jake Briltz tried to go five-hole on this breakaway, but Mariko Bercier would make the save.

Liam Fitzpatrick (centre) celebrates his second goal of the game with Grady Hoffman (17) and Connor Miller.

Toilers Net Victory Against Vikings In Senior Boys Basketball Season Opener

Photos and Story By Robert Thomas

Central Defeats Vanier In High School Junior Girls Basketball Season Opener

There was a large crowd that came out Monday night to see the Central Cyclones defeat the Vanier Spirits 46 - 32 in high school junior girls basketball action.

The game saw the Cyclones carry the lead in all four quarters against the Spirits with the scores being 14 Central - 10 Vanier after the first quarter, 23 Central18 Vanier after the second quarter and 32 Central - 28 Vanier after the third quarter.

Vanier Spirits Defeat Visiting Peacock Toilers In Junior Girls Basketball Action

To a loud and obviously largely pro home team crowd the Vanier Spirits defeated the visiting Peacock Toilers 42 - 29 in high school junior girls basketball action on Wednesday evening.

Junior High School Basketball Brief For Week One

In a hotly contested and highly emotional game the Peacock Toilers defeated the visiting Vanier Vikings 72 - 65 in the opening game of the high school senior boys basketball season.

The game saw the Toilers hold the lead in all three quarters.

The score was 19 Peacock - 12 Vanier after the first quarter, 42 Peacock - 34 Vanier at the half and 60 Peacock - 47 Vanier at the end of the third quarter.

The Toilers victory was led by 14 points by Mac Simpson. Other high scorers for the Toilers were 13 points each for Kal Houghton and Makungu Mutabazi.

The next senior boys basketball game is Tuesday December 13th at 7:30 pm when Peacock tips off against Central. The game will be at Central Collegiate.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2022/12/7/22x4i0p1d5npo2fo8vrjeiqzi6b69j

Although the final score does not show it the Spirits played a very strong third quarter and after a series of unanswered baskets at one time briefly trailed the Cyclones by a single point.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2022/12/5/central-defeats-vanierin-high-school-basketball-season-opener

Led by 15 points by Kensington Demassi the Spirits won a hard fought battle against the Toilers.

The top point getter for the Toilers was Nevaen Toupin with nine points.

The Peacock Toilers junior girls team was in action on Thursday night versus the Central Cyclones.

Up to then, the win gave the Vanier Spirits a 1 - 1 record while the loss gave the Peacock Toilers an identical 1 - 1 record.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2022/12/8/hctw3n0p2ptmvd16f9ts2b4azqg6jt

A summary of the games for high school junior basketball received but were unable to attend.

Monday December 5th - Junior Boys

Vanier 40 at Central Cyclones Red 101

Leading scorers Central: Chase Seaborn 28

Elijah Juan 20 Keaton Belsher

Josh Sazon 9

Leading scorers Vanier: Marky Salva 9 Zayden Anderson 6

Monday December 5th - Junior Girls

Peacock Toilers - 51 at Cornerstone Falcons - 46 If you attend a tournament and want to send back the results and photos please e-mail them to MJT News <news@moosejawtoday. com> or jritchie@moosejawtoday.com or moosejawnews@gmail.com with the words Junior basketball - pictures as attached jpegs are best and ordinary text is fine.

I hope it helps create more attention to the league and the sport so more people get out to watch, cheer or even just talk about it over a friendly cup of coffee.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2022/12/9/junior-high-school-basketball-brief-for-week-one

Peacock boys, Central girls win season openers as high school basketball season underway

Toilers take 72-65 win over Vanier to tip off boys campaign, Cyclones roll to 55-26 win over Assiniboia in first girls contest

If the way things went in the first game of the Moose Jaw High School Athletic Association high school basketball season is any indication of how the rest of the season is going to go, all three teams are in for a host of close games.

The Peacock Toilers and Vanier Vikings went toe-to-toe in their season-opener on Tuesday, Dec. 6, with the Toilers eventually taking a 72-65 victory at Peacock.

The Toilers -- 4A boys provincial silver medalists in 2021-22 -- took a 19-12 lead out of the first quarter before both teams put on an offensive show heading into the half, with Peacock outscoring Vanier 23-22 in the quarter and leading 42-34 at the break.

Peacock extended their lead to 6047 in the third before Vanier staged a late-game comeback, winning the fourth quarter 18-12 and pulling back with seven points before falling short.

A balanced offence was the key for the Toilers, who were led by Mac Simpson with 14 points, while Kai Houghton and Makungu Mutabazi had 13 points each.

Things weren’t as close in the first girls’ contest of the season in Assiniboia on Wednesday, Dec. 7, as the defending city champion and 4A girls provincial

Central held Assiniboia to only 10 points in the first half -- six in the first quarter, four in the second -- while build-

ing a 28-10 lead in the process. The Cyclones extended their edge to 41-18 heading into the final quarter before settling for their 29-point win.

Ellah Flanagan had a 12-point outing. Jenna Gronsdahl

win

led Assinbioia with eight points.

Girls league action continues in earnest on Tuesday, Dec. 13, with the Lumsden Angels at Central at 5:50 p.m. and Vanier at Peacock at 6:20 p.m. The Toilers and Cyclones face off for the first time in the boys league at 7:30 p.m.

Winmar

Hockey

game

bronze medalist Central Cyclones put on a defensive clinic on their way to a 55-26 victory.

Ava Nichols led all scorers with 18 points for Central, while

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Peacock’s Mac Simpson put up 14 points for the Peacock Toilers in their season-opening win over the Vanier Vikings.

Peacock Toilers Callista McQueen is blocked out by Vanier Spirits Kensinton Demassi at the top of the key - MJ Independent photo

Central Cyclones Leiah Delizo attempts to stop the ball from going out of bounds. Delizo was the top point getter on both teams with 13 for the night. - MJ Independent photo

Vanier Vikings attempt to hem in Peacock Toilers Kal Houghton - MJ Independent photo

17 Wing Winnipeg defeat 15 Wing Moose Jaw for Canadian Forces curling championship

It doesn’t matter what level you play at, curling is one of those sports where anything can happen at any given time, like a team with a losing record knocking off a first-place team in the playoffs or a close game suddenly becoming a blowout because of one end.

Both situations were on tap during the Canadian Forces Canada West Curling Championship at the Moose Jaw Events Centre on Thursday, as 17 Wing Winnipeg would go on to claim the title with a 10-2 win over 15 Wing Moose Jaw.

“It was a good game, the score definitely doesn’t reflect the level of play we saw out there today,” said 17 Wing skip Mathew Lazaruk shortly after their sixend win. “I’m quite happy with the week; it was a great group of teams here. I’ve been to this championship six times representing 17 Wing, and it was a brand new team this year so it was nice for them to come out here and get this experience and get the win.”

Winnipeg had put together a 3-1 record through the round robin and advanced to the title game with an 8-5 win over 4 Wing Cold Lake’s 2nd Lieut. Kyle Walker in their semifinal.

Lazaruk would end up facing a surprise opponent for gold, as 15 Wing’s Cpl. Jonathan Benson pulled off the upset of the tournament in his semifinal.

Benson, third Cpl. Jay McLellan, second Capt. Greg Heffern and lead Capt. Jean Doyon lost their final round robin game to 7-2 to Winnipeg on Wednesday night to finish with a 1-3 record and sneak into the playoffs as the fourth seed.

There, they’d rally for a 7-2 win over Comox’s Master Cpl. Joey Beaudin, who had put together a 3-1 record of their own and were part of the three-way tie with Cold Lake for first place in the round robin.

“We were just on our game, we were making our shots and that’s the nature of curling,” Benson said. “We could have played the same game 20 times and had 20 different results.”

The title game was close in the early

going, with Lazaruk -- who took the ice with third Capt. Paul Neilands, second Sgt. Frank Charest and lead Capt. Ian Aastrom -- holding a two-point lead heading into the fifth end. That’s where the game

would change, though, thanks to a massively cluttered house and a single shot that went awry for Benson.

The Snowbirds technician would attempt a raise takeout on his first shot of the end, but would instead remove one of his own counters in the four foot and set up Lazaruk for a four-ender and a 7-2 lead.

“It was a lot of clutter in the house, and it was a game of tic tac toe,” Lazaruk said. “I’m very happy that we were able to

make the shots that were called, especially in that end, I have a great team in front of me and it made my life a lot easier.”

Benson had hoped to keep things clean, but with every rock played except for one in the house when he went down the ice for his first shot, that certainly wasn’t the case.

“The fifth end got junked up and I had to take a desperation shot, for the lack of a better word… it was like quicksand, the harder I fought the faster I sunk,” Benson said with a good-natured laugh. “We just got away from our game a bit and that’s what happens.”

Benson was forced to play aggressively to try and get back into things in the sixth end, but would give up three more before shaking hands early.

Reaching the title game was naturally a positive for 15 Wing, especially after a less-than-satisfying round robin that saw a handful of close losses that could have gone either way.

“It was very unexpected, but I’m happy with the way it ended up and I’m happy with how we curled,” Benson said. “Sometimes things didn’t go our way, and that’s how it goes. All in all it was a great week… we were essentially professional athletes because we got paid to curl this week and hey, a bad day curling is better than a good day at work.”

The championship wasn’t all that surprising to Lazaruk, who has seen his crew around the medals every year the Canada West tournament has been played.

“This year still feels extra special since we haven’t won it since our first year,” he said. “So to come back with a new team and take it against a great group of opponents is a great feeling.”

The Canadian Forces Canada West tournament will be back at the Moose Jaw Events Centre in 2023, and Benson is already looking forward to taking another crack at winning a medal.

“This was awesome and a lot of fun and we’ll be looking forward to it next year, and like I said to Winnipeg, we’ll get you next year,” Benson said with a grin.

Tickets on sale for Canadian Wheelchair Curling Championship

The host teams are picked, early plans are in place and now tickets are officially on sale for the 2023 Canadian Wheelchair Curling championship.

After seeing the tournament cancelled due to the pandemic the last three years -including when Moose Jaw was first supposed to host in 2021 and again in 2022 -- it’s a relief for organizing committee chair Moose Gibson to see things moving along toward the Mar. 19-25 weekend at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.

“It’s getting real now,” Gibson said with a laugh shortly after the ticket sales announcement. “We’ve been looking forward to this for a long time and I’m just excited that it’s finally going to happen.”

Day passes for the tournament are $20 each and cover two draws a day, with a package covering the whole championship running $75. Tickets are available as of Dec. 1 at the Moose Jaw Events Centre and through SaskTix.ca.

“This makes it a perfect opportunity for all the curlers to get a Christmas package under the tree,” Gibson said. “You get a chance to see some of the best wheelchair curlers not only in Canada but in the world playing in our own rink, so it’s go-

ing to be huge.”

There will be no shortage of local curlers to cheer on, either. Canadian Paralympic bronze medalist Marie Wright will join fellow Team Canada player Gil Dash, Team Sask veteran Darwin Bender and

Gibson on one foursome, while Rod Pederson, Cheryl Pederson, Russell Whitsitt and former Canadian track and basketball Paralympian Stewart McKeown will make up another Team Saskatchewan crew. Those teams have been working

alongside coach Lorraine Arguin to prepare and will be doing so on a regular basis in the lead-up to nationals. Off the ice, various sub-committees are also starting to ramp up preparations, with Curl Canada making an official site visit early in the new year.

The call for volunteers will be going out soon, with notices on Facebook and sign-up sheets at the rink, and anyone who wants to get a jump on that side of things can contact the Moose Jaw Curling Centre office at (306) 624-2048 or send an e-mail to rwenarchuk@mjec.ca.

“It’s all a huge undertaking, this is the first time we’ve gotten this far with the ticket launch, so we’re looking forward to it all as the date gets closer and closer,” Gibson said.

“We really want to do a great job, so everyone who plays here will say ‘wow, I had a great time, I want to go back to Moose Jaw’ and maybe that’ll lead to even more big events in the future.”

Be sure to visit the Moose Jaw Curling Centre Facebook at www.facebook. com/MJCurlingCentre for plenty of updates as the national championship tournament gets closer.

Winnipeg uses big fifth end to take 10-2 win over Moose Jaw in gold medal game at Moose Jaw Curling Centre

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

National event set for Mar. 19-25 at Moose Jaw Curling Centre, tickets available on SaskTix.ca Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Cheryl Pederson delivers a shot as Moose Gibson (left), Darwin Bender and Gil Dash look on during a practice session last spring. All four players will be representing Saskatchewan at the 2023 Canadian Wheelchair Curling Championship in March.

Action from the gold medal final of the Canadian Forces Canada West Curling Championship on Thursday afternoon.

Members of 17 Wing Winnipeg with the championship plaque from the 2022 Canadian Forces Canada West Curling Championship: third Capt. Paul Neilands, lead Capt. Ian Aastrom, skip Capt. Matthew Lazaruk, second Sgt. Frank Charest. Saddman Zaman

Sweden’s Nyman comes away with Moose Jaw SCT championship

Fredrik Nyman travelled a long way to take part in the Moose Jaw Sask Curling Tour stop this past weekend, so why not just go out and win the whole thing?

Nyman and his rink from Solleftea, Sweden dropped a single game during the 14-team tournament at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre, eventually taking a 6-5 win over former Tankard champion Scott Manners in the title game Sunday evening.

The final actually looked as if things were going to be over early -- Nyman put up a four-spot in the third end to take a 5-1 edge and would lead 6-2 heading into the break. Manners didn’t go easily, though, picking up single points in the sixth and seventh ends and forcing Nyman to throw his final rock to pick up the win.

“(The third) was a big end for us, but they played a really good game,” said Nyman, who took the ice with third Patric Mabergs, second Simon Olofsson and lead Johannes Patz. “They were pressuring us in every end we had last rock except the one where we scored four, so the scoreboard doesn’t reflect the game, I think. They’re a tough team, but it just worked out good for us and not so good for them.”

Nyman opened with a 6-4 loss to

Saskatoon’s

There, it was a 5-1 win over Canora’’s Brandon Zuravloff -- who included Moose Jaw’s Brett Behm at third -- followed by a 6-5 victory over Saskatoon’s Michael Carss in the semifinal.

Manners and his Lloydminster rink of Ryan Deis, Kalin Deis and Carter Babij went unbeaten through to the final, taking a 5-3 win over Swift Current’s Brendan

Ross -- with Moose Jaw’s Daniel Mutlow at second -- before downing Moose Jaw’s Ben Gamble 7-5 and Zuravloff 8-4 in the A final. A 6-4 win over Saskatoon Jason Jacobson sent Manners into the championship game.

The Moose Jaw SCT stop was the final tournament in a cross-Canada tour for Nyman, who the weekend prior posted a 1-2 record in the heavyweight-filled DeKalb Superspiel in Morris, Man.

“It was the first time for us in Saskatchewan and I’d never heard of Moose Jaw before, so we didn’t know what to ex-

pect,” Nyman said.

“Actually, I guess we knew about the Tunnels, those were great. And the arena is awesome, there’s nothing close to this in Sweden. So it was a lot of fun, friendly teams and we had some fun at the casino, too,” he added with a laugh.

The foursome are flying home back to Sweden on Monday and will have a good chunk of the $6,000 on the line this weekend in their pockets.

The whole idea of the tour was to gain experience against Canadian teams, something Nyman was more than happy with.

“It’s way better than home, we’re not used to playing these good teams, so it was a really good weekend and a good trip,” he said.

Perennial Moose Jaw SCT contender Brent Gedak, who included Moose Jaw’s Derek Owens at third, reached the B final before being eliminated with an 8-1 loss to Jacobson.

Gamble lost 7-6in the B semifinal to Gedak to end his tournament.

Moose Jaw’s Jaedon Miller reached the C qualifier after a 6-5 win over Woloschuk, but dropped a 6-4 decision to Regina’s Josh Bryden.

League leaders all post wins in Original 16 Cash League

The wins just keep adding up for the top teams in the Original 16 Cash League, with the two unbeaten rinks remaining so after the most recent night of action at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.

BTN Chartered Accountants (Penny Barker) improved to 7-0 on the campaign with an 8-1 five-end win over Fountain Tire (Barry Silk, 3-6). Barker wasted little time getting things going, scoring three in the first end and stealing another in the second for the quick 4-0 lead. Silk got one back in the third, but Barker would make it 5-1 the next end and would steal three in the fifth to bring things to an end.

KMS Construction (Ben Gamble) had to work a little bit longer to improve to 6-0 in their match-up with EMJ Marketing (Joe Gunnis, 2-6). The two teams exchanged single points over the first four ends to sit tied 2-2, but Gamble would steal a pair in the fifth and add another steal of two in the sixth to take a 6-2 win.

Matt Froehlich (6-2) kept pace with the leaders thanks to a late-game surge against John’s Music (Ryan Wenarchuk, 4-5). Froehlich led 3-2 through five ends but put up a pair in the sixth and stole two in the seventh to pick up a 7-2 victory.

Pro-Tec Electric (Stan Barnsley, 5-4) stayed in the top half of the leaderboard thanks to an 8-3 victory over RK Sunview Farms (Dayne Heisler, 0-9). Barnsley got off to a fast start with a single point in the first end followed by steals of two in the second and third, but Heisler got right back in the hunt with a three spot in the fourth to make it a 5-3 game. Barnsley got all those back the next end, though, and the teams shook hands.

KalTire (Dustin Woloschuk, 3-6) used back-to-back big ends to take a 9-3 win over Rod Montgomery (5-4). The teams exchanged deuces in the first two ends, but Woloschuk made it 5-2 in the third end and stole three the next frame to take an 8-2 lead. The teams scored single points

High School Athletes of the Month for November

each the next two ends before calling it a night.

The other game saw Protec Studios (Tyler Krupski, 6-3) make it a three-way tie at six wins thanks to a 6-3 victory over Paws N Play (Jaedon Miller, 3-5). Krupski got off to a great start with three in the second and a steal in the third for a 4-0 lead.

The teams exchanged singles the next two ends before Miller made things interesting with a pair in the sixth, but a Krupski single in the seventh would bring things to a close.

Original 16 Cash League action continues every Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Ford Curling Centre.

Standout pitcher Voggesser to return to Miller Express for 2023 campaign

Doane University junior coming off all-star showing in first Western Canadian Baseball League season

Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Miller Express are still six months away from returning to the field in the Western Canadian Baseball League, but they already have a key piece of their pitching staff set to make their return to the team in 2023.

All-Star pitcher Kellan Voggesser is the first player signing announcement by the Miller Express for the upcoming campaign, with the Doane University standout aiming to build on his rookie season this past summer.

November

ah Rozell (back left, Riverview volleyball),

Behrns (Cornerstone Christian

lor

Voggesser put together an outstanding campaign for Moose Jaw, right from the first outing of the season, too. The Fort Collins, Col. product had quality starts -three runs or less over six inning pitched -- in four of his first five starts. All told, Voggesser would have nine such outings in 13 of his starts on the season, and would finish with a 3.90 earned run average and 1.39 walks and hits per inning pitched.

As well as his regular season went, Voggesser saved some of his best work for the Miller Express playoff run.

That included allowing two runs on six hits while striking out 10 in a Game 1 win over Swift Current in the East Division semifinal before coming through with his most important win of the season in his next outing. Voggesser held the Medicine Hat Mavericks to two unearned runs on six hits over six innings in Game

The Moose Jaw Miller Express will have one of their top pitchers from last season back in the line-up in 2023 with the return of Kellan Voggesser.

2 of the East Final, pacing the Express to a 7-2 victory and sending the series back to Moose Jaw.

Voggesser also stepped up on short rest to toss 1 ⅓ innings of relief in Moose Jaw’s heartstopping 3-1 win over the Okotoks Dawgs in Game 2 of the WCBL final.

Voggesser and the Doane University Tigers -- who also include Express all-star Nate Mensik as well as key offensive producers Luke LaChance and Joe Osborn in their line-up -- have yet to release their full schedule, with the NAIA Great Plains Athletic Conference season traditionally beginning in February.

You can follow along with all the scores from the spring leading up to the WCBL season at www.doaneathletics. com and www.gpacsports.com.

Logan Ede but went on a tear from there. He defeated Moose Jaw’s Dustin Woloschuk in the B semifinal and followed up with a 7-2 win over Langenburg’s Jeff Hartung to qualify for the playoff round.

BTN Accountants, KMS Construction remain undefeated with wins on Wednesday night Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Rink from Solleftea, Swe. drop single game on way to tournament title, defeat former Tankard champion Manners in final Randy Palmer - Moose Jaw Express

Curling file

Winners of the ProTec Electric Moose Jaw High School Athletic Association High School Athletes of the Month for

are Sar-

Tanner

volleyball), Tay-

Rosenau (Central volleyball), Klyde Andres (Vanier volleyball), Josiah Thiessen (Briercrest Christian volleyball), Janaya Beisal (Briercrest Christian volleyball), Makena Simmons (front left, Peacock volleyball), Rohan Porto (Riverview volleyball), Madison Smith (Cornerstone Christian volleyball), Feona Tolentino (Vanier volleyball), Kamryn Luiten (Peacock volleyball). Missing is Eric Woodley (Central volleyball).

Team Nyman are your 2022 Moose Jaw Sask Curling Tour champions.

Sweden’s Fredrik Nyman delivers his final shot in the sixth end.

Upcoming Events in Moose Jaw

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

Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan Moose Jaw Branch Future meeting dates: Wed. Jan. 18/23, Wed. March 15/23, and Wed. May 17/23.

Lawn Bowling at the Yara Centre: Drop in Tuesdays @9:30 am & Thursdays @1:30pm. Yara fees/memberships apply. For beginners Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling members plan to be available to demonstrate. If you have bowls, please bring your own.

Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters meet in the Masonic Temple at 1775 Main Street North. Membership Fee is $50 per year. For more information write Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters’ Guild Inc., Box 484, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 4P1 or email prairieheartsquilters@yahoo.ca Meeting Schedule December 17 and 2023 schedule: January 05 & 19/February 02 & 16/March 02 & 16/April 06 & 20/ May 04 & 18 (last mtg until Sept)

Mulberry Estates is hosting a Vintage Holiday party on December 15th at 2pm. Please join our residents at 220 Mulberry Lane for Christmas carols while enjoying sweet festive treats and a visit from Santa Claus. Limited space available. Please call Tricia at 306-684-0202 to reserve your spot.

TRY DANCING Monday Nights starting January 9, 2023 to February 20, 2023; costing $55.00 per person to be paid January 9 at St. Margaret’s School - 495 5th Ave. N. E., Moose Jaw. Time – 7:00pm to 9:00 pm; For more Information call: Valerie 306691-0579

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

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

The Moose Jaw Community Choir regular choir practices are on Mondays @ 700-830PM at First Free Methodist Church. Performances in the community may also take place on alternate evenings. New members are always welcome and encouraged (especially tenors and basses) and no audition is required. New members who are interested should contact the Choir Director Diane Rhodes at 306-640-8098 or message us through Facebook @ Moose Jaw Community Choir.

Moose Jaw Camera Club has resumed monthly Club Meetings. Interested photographers are welcome and invited to join and Be Focused With Us! For more information: Wanda - 306-693-7440 or Len - 306-6937685. themoosejawcameraclub.com

Toastmasters Big Country Club provides a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop oral communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth. For more information email secretary-3418@toastmastersclubs.org or text 306 690-8739

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

information.

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

Youth Programming IN PERSON & VIRTUAL PROGRAMS

Teen Dungeons & Dragons Thursdays until December 15 at 6:30-8:30 pm in MJPL Archives for ages 12-16. New and seasoned players welcome. Registration required. For more information or to register, email youth@ moosejawlibrary.ca.

Adult programming

Regular programming: Tech Time — by appointment only, get help with all your technology frustrations. To book, call the MJPL at 306692-2787.

Magic the Gathering December 17 at 2:00 pm. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out, there’s room at our table. Play commander with the group or one-on-one if that’s more your speed. Bring your own deck if you have one or if you’re new to the game, we have decks to spare. Location: South Meeting Room

Youth programming

Adult Digital D&D is a new MJPL club for ages 15 to 22. Members meet every Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. on Discord and all experience levels are welcome. To register, email youth@moosejawlibrary.ca.

Regular programming:

Teen D&D — ages 12 to 16, every Thursday until Dec. 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Registration is required by emailing youth@moosejawlibrary.ca.

Children’s programming

Regular programs:

Lego Weekends! — for ages 4+, every Saturday and Sunday in the children’s department. Creations will be displayed in the library window.

Children’s Take ‘n Make Series — For ages 4+, pick up a kit at the library circulation desk.

Children’s Take ‘n’ Make Series goes to December 31: Popsicle Stick Ornament! Come to the Library’s Circulation Desk and pick up a craft kit to take and make at home. Book suggestions and extensions activity ideas included with all Take ‘n’ Make kits. For ages 4+

The Royal Canadian Legion –Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw; Contact: 306-6925453. Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw. Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59. SHA restrictions in effect at all Legion events.

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

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

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

Drop-in Shuffleboard league every Friday at 7:00pm.

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

For current listing of events online visit: Monthly Calendar | Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59- Moose Jaw (royalcanadianlegionbranch59moosejaw. ca)

Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-6944223 or Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track

open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Wood working area – Monday to Friday 8 am – 4 pm

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

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

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 10 a.m.

- Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m. - Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m.

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

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am. Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m. One Move Dominos – cancelled for now.

Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm Carpet bowling – Has moved to the outdoors for the summer Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

Intro to Line Dancing – Wednesday’s @ 11am

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

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m. Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities WEEKLY EVENTS

Monday: 9:30am Pickle Ball; 1pm Floor Shuffleboard Tuesday: 9:30am Jam Session; 1pm Pickle Ball; 7pm Friendship Bridge Wednesday: 8:30am TOPS; 9:30am Pickle Ball; 1pm Floor Shuffleboard; 1pm Hand & Food Canasta Thursday: 10am Line Dance; 1pm Pickle Ball Friday: 10am Beginner Pickle Ball; 1pm Pickle Ball

Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or 306.681.5998 anaf252@sasktel.net Thursday at 1:30 pm Crib Friday at 1:30 is Fun Shuffleboard Friday Evening Fun Pool and Darts at 7pm

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

Saturday meat draw @ 4:30pm50/50, Gift Card Everyone is welcome to join the fun!

For More Information on anything Happening at the ANAVETS #252 Call or Text 306-681-5998 or 306-6924412 email anaf252@sasktel.net

Everyone Including Non- Members are Welcome to all our events!!

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES

#3395

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

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

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

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

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

FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm

NOW – New Year’s Eve Tickets on sale – available at the Eagles Club Bar – Early Bird price of $25.00 per person in effect to December 25, 2022 then goes to the regular price of $30.00 per person. Get your tickets early.

NOW - If you have any winter coats, etc. your donation of used winter clothing – jackets, mitts, socks, hats , will be gratefully accepted. Please put your donations in the donation box outside our Ladies Auxiliary Secretary’s door in the Eagles Club Games Room (in back of the lounge). All donations will go to help Moose Jaw’s Homeless.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: 2022 – Doors open at 7:00 pm – Dance to the music of a superb band - BRANDON and COMPANY – Luncheon Served at 11:00 pm. Tickets available at the Eagles Club Bar… Early Bird price of $25.00 per person in effect to December 25, 2022 then goes to the regular price of $30.00 per person.

Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. Please call for more information (306) 693-5989.

You can read more about the upcoming sessions and how to sign up for the free Virtual Coffee Club talks here: https://wdm.ca/coffeeclub/ We are excited to return to this popular program, especially because we will have some special guest speakers at two of the sessions. Topics this fall and early winter include: December 20 - “Holiday Traditions” WDM is once again hosting A Christmas Long Ago on Dec. 17. – This is an interactive presentation where attendees would engage with real-life archives from the museum. The session has an in-person and a virtual presentation. In-person sessions will be hosted on Dec. 10 & 17 from 10.00 a.m. and another at 2.00 p.m. Virtual session will be on Dec. 23 at 7.00 p.m. Tickets are required to purchase to attend the in-person sessions but the virtual presentation is completely free. Tickets for WDM members cost around $12.69 for adults and $9.51 for youths (5-18). For non-members, $15.86 for adults and $12.69 for youths (5-18). Participation is limited to 25 people per session. Pre-registration is required for participation. To register for this program please go to wdm.ca/winter. For more information contact 306-693-5989.

Snowflake Seek and Find activity for youngsters where nine images of different snowflakes have been hidden within the museum galleries. Young visitors will try and locate these images and record where they were found. At the end of the hunt, there will be an announcement with a great big prize basket for the holidays.

WDM will also be handing out a Christmas at the WDM booklet containing guided questions about winter and holiday traditions, and artifacts archived in the museum galleries. There will also be short films from the National Film Board screening in their Saskatchewan Theatre throughout the month.

Orange

Orange Door Collective Wellness (ODCW) is a strong advocate for mental health and body positivity. Their mission is to empower women by providing accessible wellness classes for mothers and all women.

“The journey of becoming a mother is often heavily baby-focused within our community and mothers are often forgotten, said Katie Bookout, owner of Orange Door Collective Wellness. “I hope to continue growing the wellness community for mothers to access Orange Door Collective.”

Bookout is a Certified Pregnancy and Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES). She did her Bachelor of Kinesiology and Health Studies program at the University of Regina with a Human Kinetics major.

She started this unique business right after she became a mother. As a wellness professional for 9 years, she identified the lack of support and exercise for mothers within the community. “I acknowledged the overall lack of inclusion for women in all stages of womanhood through exercise in our community,” Bookout said.

“I wanted to create a wellness platform that is easily accessible for women with demanding schedules, shift workers, mothers and women alike who find it challenging to access a gym.”

She says time management has been critical for many women who simply do not participate in wellness and fitness training. She created both weekly live classes via Zoom and in-person sessions for flexibility purposes. To manage time, she is offering 30 minutes, 20 minutes, and even 10 minutes sessions to meet demanding schedules and activity levels.

Right now, ODCW is offering a variety of classes focused on the wellness of mothers and women who are entering motherhood.

Mamababe: Sweat class is a 60-minute class within their MamaBabe Program featuring total body strength workouts, cardio and a mobility component. This is an in-person program.

The Cardio & Core class is a 20-minute class suitable for individuals of all activity levels and featuring low-impact cardio and core exercises. This class is formatted on a weekly basis on Tuesday evenings via Zoom.

The Core & Restore class is also formatted weekly on Wednesdays via Zoom. The class is a 30-minute session featuring regressive core work and mobility exercises to help improve overall core strength and function.

Total Body Sweat class is currently offered on Thursday evenings via Zoom. This is a 20-minute class and is suitable for individuals of all activity levels and features low-impact strength, cardio, and core exercises. This class is also available through ODCW’s on-demand class library.

The Strength & Stretch class is a 30-minute class offered weekly on Mondays via Zoom. This is a strengthbased and muscular endurance exercise followed by a mobility component. This class is also available through our on-demand class library.

Bookout says the only offerings that cannot be accessed virtually are their MamaBabe Program and the Private Sessions. She mentions that her classes have motivated many mothers who had nothing but appreciation

for the classes.

Here are some comments from Bookout’s clients within the Moose Jaw community of mothers: “Kate is knowledgeable and genuine, and I know I am in good hands in my postpartum exercise journey!”

“I have really enjoyed this class and actually look forward to coming! It’s a great excuse to get out of the house with the baby and meet other moms. Katie is a fantastic teacher and has done a great job at creating a welcoming, inclusive and non-judgmental environment.”

“Excellent atmosphere for mommas who are re-learning how to move and strengthen our bodies after having babies.”

Bookout says running a business has its challenges, as the classes are primarily held online. Her main challenge is to motivate her clients to stay focused and encourages them to attend every class.

“I think that a major challenge with this is empowering women to be accountable and make their wellness a priority by “showing up” to Live or On-demand classes.”

She wants to thank Jessie and Mei-Ling of The Light Yoga & Wholeness Studio for welcoming her with open arms and helping her to grow ODCW.

Bookout wants to connect with other wellness pro-

fessionals and physicians to provide education on both the importance and benefits of specialized pregnancy/ postpartum exercise. She also wants to spread awareness and education about pelvic floor health and assist women with issues such as, poor posture, diastasis, bladder incontinence, and prolapse which are within her scope of practice.

“Through appropriate education and interventions,

I hope to connect with more women and assist them in these issues which are often frustrating, embarrassing, painful and often have an effect on women’s mental health,” she said.

Under the provisions of The Alcohol and Gaming Regulations Act, 1997,

Notice is hereby given that Renmark Hospitality Corporation has applied to the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) for a Restaurant and Tavern permit to sell alcohol in the premises known as Smitty’s Family Restaurant and Bugsy’s Irish Pub at 1235 Main St. N. Moose Jaw, SK S6H 6M4

Written objections to the granting of the permit may be filed with SLGA not more than two weeks from the date of publication of this notice.

ODCW offers both online and in-person programs. They also provide private 1-on-1 sessions. For their Live/ on-demand memberships, class schedules are posted one month at a time through their official website which also uses Arketa for scheduling and class streaming. Those who obtain either a Motherhood Collective or Woman Collective Membership have unlimited access to both weekly Live and on-demand classes. Their monthly MamaBabe Collective Monthly membership is about $75.57 and a 3-month saving membership would cost around $70.75 with unlimited access. A Motherhood and Woman Collective package is about $49.99 with unlimited monthly access.

To purchase a membership or book private sessions call 306-630-5264 or email katebookoutwellness@gmail. com. For more information check their website orangedoorcollective.ca.

Every person filing a written objection with SLGA shall state their name, address and telephone number in printed form, as well as the grounds for the objection(s). Petitions must name a contact person, state grounds and be legible. Each signatory to the petition and the contact person must provide an address and telephone number.

Frivolous, vexatious or competition-based objections within the beverage alcohol industry may not be considered and may be rejected by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Licensing Commission, who may refuse to hold a hearing. Write to: Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Box

Katie Bookout is the owner and sole operator of Orange Door Collective Wellness.

MamaBabe

Katie Bookout’s daughter, Cedar (18 months) in attendance for MamaBabe class.

going to go through tough times - that’s life. But I say, ‘Nothing happens to you, it happens for you.’ See the positive in negative events. -- Joel Osteen --

AUTO PARTS

scrabble who wants to be a millionaire, Rumoli smart ass. Games $20.00 each or all games $320.00. 3 radial tires half worn. Call 306-693-1877

Golds Gym Treadmill, 120 volt- 60HZ, 50”long, 18” wide. Used by seniors. $575.00 or best offer. Call 306-692-1064 anytime.

Good condition tires- Nitto Trail Grappler, 6/32 tread, 285/75/16 mounted on Dodge Ram 1500 rims. $400 obo, 306-6319853

4 steel studded tires, like new. Size 225 65 R17. $300. Ph. 306-694-4631 Truck cap or tunnel cover for a 1993 Ford ranger truck reasonably priced. Call 306-313-4772

Looking for any vehicle non working batteries 306681-8749

Looking for a pair of factory tail lights and front spoiler under front bumper for a 2017 Ford F-250 super duty truck 306-681-8749

WINTER TIRES used only one winter- sumitomo ice edge 195/60R 15, on 4 bolt rims. Used only one winter on a 2006 Gobara $400.00 firm. 306-684-6080

Weatherman 15” all season tire – R195/165R1591T- like new, got 3361 miles or 5400km on. New cost was $160.00 sell for $39.00, FRAM cabin air filter, new in box, CF11173 – fits Nissan & other vehicles. 306-5869263

MOTORBIKES & SNOWMOBILES

1990 Artic Cat 650cc skidoo. $800 OBO, to view call Terry 306-630-2566

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

Campbell hausfeld air compressor with hose, 8 gal; 125p, like new, $175.00.   1” Irwin drill bit, $1.00.  Glass cutter (diameter)-made in Germany $1.00.  T-square$3.00. Utility work light (bulb included), with 30” cord, $4.00. Austin craft, 4 size socket tool, $1.00. Fuller long nose pliers, with cushion grip handles, $2.00. 306-586-9263

FOR RENT

Two rooms for rent, $150.00 each room plus utilities. Use of kitchen, bathroom, living room. 99 Spruce St, Caronport, Sk.17 minutes to Moose JawTrans Canada highway. For more information call 1-306-684-6080

COMPUTERS & TECHNOLOGY

2- IPhone 6’s for sale $150.00 each. Call or text 306-631-6688

MISCELLANEOUS

Canadian Editions 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6 Genus Trivial Pursuit, trivial pursuit digital edition, Moose Jaw monopoly (new), Monopoly Deluxe edition, Monopoly scrabble deluxe edition,

Bike repairs starting at $10, Kids bikes tune ups 20in and smaller $25-$35, Adult bikes 24in and larger regular tune up $55, Premium tune up $90. Pick up and delivery available in Moose Jaw. I have 35+ years experience with all makes and models. Please call or text 306 690 2611

Large assortment of clean containers including ice cream pails with lids - $3 for all 306-681-8749

Wanted John Deere LA tractor, John Deere 316,317, or 318 or equivalent lawn tractor, and older truck with no rust. Call or text 306641-4447

Looking for the vintage bubble lights in working condition (Christmas lights) 306-681-8749

I’ll pick up for free unwanted snow blowers, chainsaws, garden tillers, lawn tractors, and other lawn, garden and acreage equipment. Call or text 306-6414447

For Sale Hydraulic bathtub lift for more info call 306690-7227 or 306-693-4321

Assorted electronic cables, selling all together - $2. 306-681-8749

FOR SALE: Gold-tipped arrows (6-pack). No arrow heads, just shaft and end. Still in packaging, never used. $50. 306-313-4643.

Antique collectible stubby beer bottle, great condition - $2. Call 306-681-8749

Large assortment of clean containers including ice cream pails with lids - $3 for all. 306-681-8749

I am a licensed gun owner paying cash for unwanted firearms, parts and ammunition in the Moose Jaw, Regina and surrounding area. Call or text 306-6414447

18” necklace from Hawaii, shell/beads- $4.00.   Firewood – 5 boxes of firewood for stove camping, fireplace/pit etc. $16.00 all.

26 bath towels & 2 face cloths, $20.00 all. Framed mirror (like new) 371/4” x 44” x 11/1” d. $25.00.  Photo album- new $4.00.   COMFORTER, BEDSKIRT & 2 pillow covers, double/queen size, multi-colored, $20.00.

Double size fitted & flat sheets (mushroom color) & 2 pillow covers, $12.00.   1 chocolate brown toss cushion (new), $7.00.  Navy polar fleece blanket 50” x 60” for household, camping etc. $6.00. 12 double sided drape/shower curtain hooks, chrome color, new in pkg. $5.00.   11 egg cartoons .25cents all.    Drapes, dk. brown pleated drape, 96” x 84”,

blackout, polyester, pocket rod with back tab panel, new $22.00.   Solid grommet panel drapes, polyester, mushroom color, 50” x 63”, new, 2 for $15.00. Brown grommet panel drape, polyester, 52” x 84” – $10.00.     Dk. brown pleated drapes, polyester with back tab panel, insulated foam back 48” x 45” – $14.00. 306-586-9263

Men’s snowmobile boots, size 11 asking $15.00.New venation blind, white, still in box $10.00. Oil painting supplies a plastic container full of paints, 18 paint brushes, 4 painting books, canvasses, 2 scalpels. Asking $100.00 or will sell separately. Call 306-692-1365

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS

Wooden China Cabinet and Hutch, medium brown in color and in excellent condition, beautiful piece of furniture. Measures 82”Hx58”W, 2 glass shelves in cabinet with finger touch tri-light. $1500. 8 piece rectangular wooden dining room set, includes table measuring 57”Lx43”W, leaf measuring 18” and 6 chairs. Matches very well with the China Cabinet and Hutch. Asking $1000.00 but would sell China cabinet, hutch and dining set for $2300. Gorgeous 8 piece queen size bedroom suite, queen size pillow top 18” mattress, wooden headboard and footboard with 2 drawers. Dresser with 7 drawers, 2 night stands with 2 drawers and mirror. All in like new condition, currents sells at the Brick for over $6000, asking $2500 for the set. Metal wall hanging, 30”Lx22”H, brown, rust, yellow and oranges hues, $30. Metal wine rack, 54”Hx24”W, holds 39 bottles, could easily be spray painted to match your decor, $30. 3 dark brown wicker baskets, 15”x11”x8, never used, $15. White-washed glass sided box, used for cards at wedding and as Xmas decor, $15. Asst table clothes that fit the aforementioned dining table, 68”Lx57”W to 100”Lx60”W, $5 ea. or all for $25. 9 Keurig 2.0 filters, $5. All items come from pet free and smoke free home and all located in Moose Jaw. For more information or pictures, please contact Gale at 306-421-7459. For sale: GE electric fry pan, 12 in. square, quality made. $25. Call 972-2257

SET-Comes with 1 fitted sheet, 1 flat sheet and 2 King size pillow cases. Easy care and wrinkle resistant. Brand new still in PKG. Would make a nice gift paid $39.99 asking $20.00 OBO. Plz. call 6923061.

Antique fish net, would be nice wall decor - $2 call 306-681-8749

Red leather look arm chair (like new), at brick is $1600.00, plus taxes, sell for $399.00.  teakwood entertainment unit, or for office etc. on 4 roller casters, adjustable shelves & 1 shelve is pullout for printer, record player etc. & 1 side pullout drawer for tapes, cd’s etc. 51”h x 181/4”d x 32”w. $99.00.    Bedroom – brass headboard (double/full size) has been lacquered, so no need to polish $125.00. Steel bedframe on 4 roller casters, adjusts from twin/double or queen size. &17.00. 306586-9263

CHILDRENS ITEMS

Kids hoola-hoop - $2. Call 306-681-8749

CLOTHING

Male beige London fog coat (new tags still on), zip-out lining, size 42/44. never worn $24.00.  Male, rubber/water /mud boots, size 10 (Vulcan), like new, 13”h- $10.00. Male Wayne Gretsky top/sweater, #99, navy, 1/2 zip at front neck, l sleeve, size 2xl, new $15.00.  Male hagaar, top shirt/sweater, wine color, l. sleeve, poly/cotton, size XXL new $12.00. Black male dress slacks, 36w, 34l and can be longer is extra hem, like new$17.00. Female navy dress, cotton/spandex, sleeveless, crochet at front yolk, size med. $5.00. Female dk. green poly coat /rain, size XL, back pleat, attached hood, like new $7.00.   female pantyhose, assorted sizes & colors, navy, white, black, blue, spice etc. new in pkgs. price range from .50cents to $3.50 pr. female poly spandex navy coat, mesh lined, attached hood, size xl, washable, $12.00.  Female navy cotton/spandex slacks, size medium .wider leg, $6.00.  Female aqua color dress, with collar, sleeveless, V-neck, polyester, size 1x, $7.00.   306-586-9263

LAWN & GARDEN

306-681-8749

Concrete back splash (for under eaves), so water drains away from. Bldg. 29”l x 11”w x 31/2”h. like new $7.00.    2 –20kg. Bags of rocks (natural stone color), for yard garden, etc. $2.00 all. 6 smaller plant pots, includes 1 with drain tray, and pkg. miracle grow, plant food spikes $1.00 all.   5 ft. vinyl scalloped edging, for trees, flower beds, garden etc. includes spikes and connector. $2.00.  Bulbar/digger garden tool with wood handle, for flowers, garden, plants etc. $1.00.  306-586-9263

WANTED

ANTIQUES Wanted: signs, toys, sports cards, gold & silver coins & jewellery, firearms, single items to full estates. Call 1-306-5398363

Help Needed! Did you know Moose Jaw has 2 of the oldest trains, one CPR and one CNR, they are located in Wakamow Park? They are in need of serious repair, I have repaired them twice and I am 89 years old and unable to do it. Hoping someone will take over the repaired. Please call Cec at 306-692-1339

SERVICES

Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268. Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, finishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofing/ siding- no job too big or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. This is to all the people who are looking for someone to do work for them.

(1) Get three estimates, ask if they charge FOR ESTIMATES if they do, don’t use them. (2) do a written contract, with how long to do the job, and the total cost. (3) DO NOT PAY BEFORE WORK IS DONE. (4) DO NOT PAY FOR BUILDING MATERIAL UNLESS YOU ARE A SUPPLIER AND IT IS BEING DELIVERED TO YOUR RESIDENTS. (5) It should not take 5 months to shingle a 1200 sq. foot home. (6) Get names of people your contractor has worked for and make sure they are not his friends. (7)

If you are not comfortable when first meeting your contractor, chances are you are right, don’t deal with him. (8) If you’re looking for a contractor, check with your building supplier, they sometime have names of good reliable people that do the work you are looking for. (9) THE MAIN POINT IS DO NOT GIVE MONEY UP FRONT FOR ANY TYPE OF WORK. IF THEY SAY THEY NEED THE MONEY TO GET SUPPLIES FORGET IT, TROUBLE COULD BE BREWING. (10) Hope this helps all you people looking for a contractor.

Will pick up, move, haul and deliver furniture anywhere in and around Moose Jaw$40 and up. 306-681-8749

Will pick up, move, haul and deliver any size of TVs in and around Moose Jaw$30 and up. 306-681-8749

Will pick up, move, haul and deliver appliances in and around Moose Jaw$45 and up. 306-681-8749

Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-6302268

Will pick up, deliver or haul away BBQ’s in and around Moose Jaw- $40 and up. 306-681-8749

Junk to the dump in and around Moose Jaw - $60/ load and up. 306-681-8749

Semi-Retired Contractor – 47 years in business, residential and commercial. Enjoys small or large projects involving plaster, drywall, concrete, painting, taping, texturing, stucco repair, tile and T bar. I work for the Heritage Society and enjoy beautification projects. Quality work. Free estimates. Discount for seniors. Phone Bob Huston 1-587-889-1000.

Small Home Repairs. Plumbing, decks, windows, kitchens, bathrooms etc. No job too small. Phone 306-313-5151

Newly built raised garden beds - $40.00. Call 306681-8749

45 gallon blue plastic barrels, food grade great for rainwater save water rather than pay for it, or raised garden beds - $20 each.

WILSON, KAREN

It is with heavy hearts we announce the sudden passing of Karen Wilson (née: Fitzpatrick), our cherished wife, mom, grandma, GiGi and friend after a very brief and unexpected courageous battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday, December 1st, 2022. Karen was born in Barrie, ON on September 23rd, 1960.

She was predeceased by her parents, Peter and Norma Fitzpatrick; sister, Gail Caplan; and father-in-law, Basil Wilson. Karen is survived by her husband of 42 years, Jim; daughter, Kristen (Ryan) and grandson Maxton of Canmore, AB; son, Michael (Jamie) and granddaughter Ayla of Nashwaak Bridge, NB; brother, Michael (Sheila) of Newburgh, ON; sister, Colleen (Barry) of Breckenridge, QC; mother-in-law, June Wilson; as well as many aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, and friends. Karen is also survived by her friend of 50 years, Debby Dombowsky.

Karen started her professional career in 1995 as an LPN. She shared her caregiving between Pioneer Lodge, Moose Jaw Union Hospital, and the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, that led to earning her 25year nursing pin. Karen offered compassion and care in her professional and everyday life. She touched the lives of many and made everyone she met feel special.

Karen enjoyed her cottage at Buffalo Pound Lake, family vacations, as well as hiking, walking, and biking. Her unconditional love for her family grew even more when two little sweet lights came into her life – Ayla and Maxton.

Karen will be sadly missed by all. Her beautiful spirit and kindness will live on.

In keeping with Karen’s wishes, a Private Family Gathering will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Karen’s name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 1910 McIntyre St, Regina, SK S4P 2R3 or Moose Jaw Health Foundation, 55 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2.

Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Cara Ashworth - Intern Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome. com.

~ EDWIN FRIEDT~ 1935-2022 Edwin (Ed) Friedt passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 1, 2022 at the age of 87 years. He is survived by his loving wife, Eileen of 62 years. Ed is also lovingly remembered by his children, Michelle (Jim), Robert (Jill), Daniel (Pam); grandchildren, Jay, Ian, Tiana, Jenelle (Rob), Tamara (Kelly), Dustin, Joseph (Sarah); great-grandchildren, Miller, Mia, William; sisters, Fran, and Loretta; as well as many nieces & nephews. Ed was predeceased by his parents, Anton & Catherine; brothers, Tony and Tom; sisters, Anne and Eleanor. Ed was a former Administrator at the Providence Hospital in Moose Jaw. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed visiting with family and friends, playing cards and had a passion for reading western books. Prayers were held at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, #1 DUNMORE ROAD SE, MEDICINE HAT AB on Friday, December 9th, 2022 at 7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass was held at Holy Family Church,1451 Strachan Rd SE, Medicine Hat, AB on Saturday, December 10th, 2022 at 11:00 am. A private Interment followed at SAAMIS PRAIRIE VIEW CEMETERY. Condolences for the family may be sent to www.saamis.com subject heading Edwin Friedt. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL AND CREMATORIUM, “The Chapel in the Park”, Medicine Hat, Alberta. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone 1-800-317-2647.

HORNBROOK, MARSHALL DOUGLAS

December 12, 1990December 2, 2022

A great loss for his family, he is finally at peace. He came home one last time to see his Mom and was gone in the morning to the terrible crisis of addiction. Left to mourn his passing, his Mom Debbie Gaetz, Mike Gaetz; sisters Desiree Blohm and Brittany Hornbrook; brother Matthew Hornbrook; daughter Lexxi Dixon and sons Leame Hornbrook and Blaze Dixon-Hornbrook. He will be truly missed. His suffering has ended. To express condolences and share memories, please visit: www.mountainviewmemorial.ca.

Warmest

ANDERSON, EMMA

Emma Edna Isabel Anderson, daughter of Henry and Mary Anderson was born October 28, 1925, becoming one of five siblings: Ida E. Anderson, William H. Anderson, Donald R. Anderson and Graham B. Anderson. Emma left the farmstead to work for the government of Saskatchewan in Regina where, after numerous years of service, she retired. She possessed a very outgoing personality with a great sense of humour along with a passion for music, theatre, curling, attending Saskatchewan Roughrider football games, travel and golf.

Emma Anderson was the last surviving family member, passing on December 7, 2022 at the age of 97 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan after a short illness. While Emma did not marry, she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins and will be sorely missed.

A celebration of life for family and friends will be held at a future date.

VERBOOM, MERILYN

JOAN

July 4th, 1937December 7th, 2022 Merilyn Verboom passed away on December 7th, 2022, at the age of 85 years. She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Roderick Verboom; daughters, Loretta Verboom and Rhonda Zee (Murray Willford); grandchildren, Ryan (Jasmine) Verboom, Rachel (John) Third, Amanda (Vaughn) Hutchison, Danielle Green, Wyatt Parker (Candice), Branson Zee and Savannah Zee; brother, Glenn Montgomery; sister, Victoria Sisetsky; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Merilyn was predeceased by her brothers, Billy Montgomery, Stan Montgomery and Wayne Montgomery; sister, Lorraine (Rudy) Nordin. Merilyn was born in Davidson, SK, on July 4th, 1937, and raised in places all over Saskatchewan. She attended school in Drinkwater, SK. Merilyn married her husband in Moose Jaw, SK in 1954.

She loved The Blue Jays, curling, owls and most of all, loved her family. Merilyn was a mom/grandma to everyone. She also loved country music and dancing. A private family Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 17th at Grace Memorial. Donations in Merilyn’s memory may be made to STARS Air Ambulance by visiting www.star.ca, Diabetes Society by visiting www.diabetes.ca or World Vision. Condolences may be made at www.gracememorial. com. Arrangements are made by GRACE MEMORIAL AFFORDABLE BURIAL & CREMATION 1924 10th Ave NW, Medicine Hat, Alberta T1C 1T5 403-9050440 info@gracememorial.com.

Dayna Chamberlain General Manager

Wishes from our Families to Yours

RE: TIMOTHY EATON’S CENTRE (MOOSE JAW & DISTRICT SENIORS’ ASSOCIATION) HAS ROOMS TO RENT FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES OR OTHER FUNCTIONS

Dear Editor,

With the holidays and the New Year fast approaching, your readers might be interested to know that Timothy Eaton’s (The Moose Jaw and District Seniors’ Association) has available venues for every occasion, function and workshop! We also have the experience to make that special event seamless and memorable! Our XYZ auditorium, with a bar and a sound stage, rents for $80/ hour or $600/day with set up and clean up included in the price. Bonus! Our smaller card and craft rooms rent for $50/hour or $350/day. Set up and clean up included. A discount is offered for multiple

Guidelines for Submitting Letters to the Editor:

Due to space allotment in Moose Jaw Express for free letters to the editor, we find it necessary to establish some guidelines in submissions that will be in effect as of March 15, 2021.

• All letters to the editor submitted to the Moose Jaw Express newspaper should not exceed 800 words, although they can be much longer to be included in our online daily MooseJawToday.com . In this case, we reserve the right to edit them accordingly.

• A full name and contact information will need to be included with each submission for verification.

days. We have a PA system with a projector and a screen, various table shapes and sizes depending on the required arrangement and, of course, catering and a liquor licence. The catering menu includes mouth watering Roast Beef, Turkey or Roast Chicken Dinners with all the fixings at $22/ person. Consider us your go-to location for your next big event!

Finally, we also have a 500 square foot office space to rent in the best location in Moose Jawright on Main Street! The cost is $1150 a month and that includes a half bath and all utilities. Picture yourself and your new business here! Contact Tanya Legare, our administrator, for more information at 306 694-4223 or email at <mjsenior@shaw.ca>

Candace Thorne

“The voice of one crying in the wilderness: Prepare the way of the Lord; make his paths straight.” (Matthew 3:3) There is much to prepare in the weeks of Advent for the celebration of the coming of the Christ Child.

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he.” (Zechariah 9:9) All the busyness of Advent needs to be kept in the perspective that we are entering into a season of rejoicing at Christmas. Don’t get consumed by the hustle and bustle of things that the real meaning gets lost in the shuffle.

• Only the name will be included in publication with the letter as the contributor.

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

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

RE: TAX ON SMALL BUSINESS PROPERTIES VS LARGER BUSINESS PROPERTIES

We-a retired education teacher and a musician have become aware of MJ institutional prejudicial taxation against small business properties favouring larger business properties and businesses.. We have seen comparisons and are VERY concerned that inappropriate influence is MOST likely at hand here…. And that so-called expertise (hired or otherwise) has unfairly motivated negative appeals versus this unfairness.

Whether you may be ignorant or not of the detrimental effect this will have in Moose Jaw morale and eventual deterioration of business retention and business climate in Moose Jaw, it’s time to re-examine your dealings with this shameful issue.

Lyle and Marilyn Hansen

has light shined.” (Isaiah 9:2) “In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. . . . And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John1:4-5,14)

Have a blessed Advent in your watching, preparing, rejoicing, and beholding!

SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.

Words of Advent

Advent is the time before the celebration of Christmas. Some traditions calculate the beginning of Advent as the Sunday closest to St. Andrew’s Day (November 30). Others count back four Sundays before December 25th, and that Sunday begins the Advent Season. By any calculations this year is the earliest date Advent can start, November 27.

Whether you follow the Christian Year or not, the weeks before Christmas are a time of waiting and readiness. The Season of Advent is a corporate journey getting ready for Christmas with all the decorations and baking and purchasing presents. We see the activity all around us as we wait for December 25 to arrive. All this activity is meant to intensify the joy of the Christmas Season.

There are traditional Words of Advent that go along with the season. In many churches and homes a candle is lit each week, often in an Advent wreath or circle. The words Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love are the traditional names of each candle. The thematic words associated with each of the 4 Sundays in Advent are Watch, Prepare, Rejoice, and Behold.

“Endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts.” (Romans 5:4-5) No matter the circumstances of life Advent calls us to live in hope, the hopefulness of the Christmas season.

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” (Colossians 3:15) The message of the Christmas angels is one of peace among men. The Advent candle of peace directs us to the Babe of Bethlehem who brings peace through an encounter with the living God.

“A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” (Proverbs 17:22) The third candle of Advent is traditionally a pink colour to indicate the anticipated joy of Christmas in the Christ Child who has come to heal our wounded lives.

“Faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13) As Christmas nears, we anticipate the love which comes to us, and which fills us with love for one another.

“Watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and care of this life.” (Luke 21:34) In the Advent season we are called to watch carefully how we live our lives so that the time of Christ’s coming can be a meaningful eternal event.

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel.” (Matthew 1:23) The culmination of Advent is the coming of the Saviour. Behold, his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Whatever situations you find yourself in, the lights of Advent call to you of hope, peace, love, and joy. “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of deep darkness, on them

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 confirm that all words will be used.

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

Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw,

d BASKETBALL

Friday

6:30 p.m. TSN NBA Brooklyn Nets at Toronto Raptors.

Tuesday

6:30 p.m. TSN NBA Golden State Warriors at New York Knicks.

9:00 p.m. TSN NBA Memphis Grizzlies at Denver Nuggets.

Wednesday

6:30 p.m. TSN NBA Toronto Raptors at New York Knicks.

9:00 p.m. TSN NBA Los Angeles Lakers at Sacramento Kings.

e FOOTBALL

Thursday

7:15 p.m. TSN EDACC NFL San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks.

Saturday

9:30 p.m. TSN NFL Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills.

Sunday

7:15 p.m. WDIV TSN EDACC NFL New York Giants at Washington Commanders.

Monday

7:00 p.m. WXYZ NFL Los Angeles Rams at Green Bay Packers.

k HOCKEY

Thursday

8:00 p.m. NET NHL St. Louis Blues at Edmonton Oilers.

Friday

8:00 p.m. NET NHL St. Louis Blues at Calgary Flames.

Saturday

6:00 p.m. CBKT NET NHL Toronto Maple Leafs at Washington Capitals.

CTYS NHL Tampa Bay Lightning at Montreal Canadiens.

9:00 p.m. CBKT NET NHL Winnipeg Jets at Vancouver Canucks.

Sunday

9:00 p.m. NET NHL Calgary Flames at San Jose Sharks.

Monday

7:00 p.m. NET NHL Edmonton Oilers at Nashville Predators.

Tuesday

6:00 p.m. NET NHL New York Rangers at Pittsburgh Penguins.

9:30 p.m. NET NHL Calgary Flames at San Jose Sharks.

Wednesday

7:00 p.m. NET NHL Montreal Canadiens at Colorado Avalanche.

9:45 p.m. NET NHL Edmonton Oilers at Dallas Stars.

Moose Jaw Rotary Club celebrated their annual 76th Carol Festival at Zion United Church on Dec. 5th.

“It’s doing really well; last night we had a full house, so, it’s good,” Rotary Club Chairperson Susan Hanna said.

She said that it’s hard to find choirs to perform since schools are not focusing on music like they used to.

She had to call every school in town and also advertised to solicit choir groups for the festival. Eventually, she was able to manage to get about thirteen choirs: six

choirs for the opening day on Dec. 6 and seven choirs for the closing day.

Master of ceremonies on Monday, Dec. 5 was Rotarian Jack Ross; the Master of Ceremonies on the following day was Rotarian Les Ward. Pianists were Pam Ludwar and Lorne Jackson.

Chorale De l’Ecole Ducharme, Palliser heights Choir, Caronport Elementary School, Cornerstone Concert Choir, Desperate for Haggis and Moose Jaw Community Choir performed on opening night; St. Michael School Choir, Vanier Colle-

giate Choir, Sun Valley Singers, Heritage Singers, Holy Trinity Staff Choir, Central Collegiate Oxford St Singers and Central Collegiate Concert Choir performed on the following evening.

Many Christmas carols were sung and enjoyed throughout the festival.

The Rotary Club acknowledges and thanks everyone especially Prairie South School Division and Holy Trinity School Division, the directors, the accompanists and every participant who participated, helped and contributed to making this 76th Carol Festival a success.

celebrated their annual 76th Carol Festival at Zion United Church on Dec. 5th Saddman Zaman - Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com

Vanier Collegiate Choir performing with their director David Selensky.

Sun Valley Singers choir.

Rotarian Les Ward is the master of ceremonies of the night.

Heritage Singers choir performs with director Brenda Johnson.

Lorne Jackson - pianist for all the choir groups of the night.

Everyone enjoyed the festival immensely.