Moose Jaw Express, October 30th, 2024

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RE-ELECT MAYOR CLIVE TOLLEY THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR MOOSE JAW

I love our city, and as your Mayor for the past 3 years, I have proven to have the strength, skill, and ability to lead the City of Moose Jaw through tough times! Action is underway to make us a better city now and in the future!

CLIVE’S REVISED DRIVE FOR FIVE

1. Continue to support River Street revitalization including the construction of a new hotel which will provide added value to the Moose Jaw Events Centre and downtown.

2. Make Downtown and Crescent Park safe and beautiful for our citizens and tourists alike, support the Moose Jaw Police Service and Downtown Moose Jaw initiatives.

3. Prioritize Pothole lling, repaving our streets, and applying dust control to our gravel roads in both commercial and residential areas – do the worst roads rst!

4. Market our Housing Incentive Policy, sell vacant city land, make use of our existing infrastructure, maintain vibrant neighbourhoods, increase our housing capacity.

5. Fix the 4th Avenue Bridge (win arbitration with CPKC), start planning for a New Bridge for Southwest South Hill, necessary with the new school and adjacent housing.

Born and raised in Moose Jaw, I have lived and worked throughout the world, but I chose to make Moose Jaw my home! I stayed to get a job, marry, raise a family, and enjoy a healthy and happy life in our notorious city. I was ready to Get a Life in Moose Jaw!

Dispute Resolution Professional - Chartered Mediator and Chartered Arbitrator This sets me apart from the other candidates because I am a professional problem solver with successful experience listening to and working with diverse populations to nd alternative solutions to their everyday problems.

Current Mayor of Moose Jaw - Elected in 2021 By-Election

I am not completely happy with everything that is going on in our city. Each day I answer your emails and your calls, and I try my best to use my mediation skills to help nd solutions to the problems you encounter within our community, at city hall or with city services. I have empathy with those among us who get ooded after a hard rain. I identify with everyone that waited to have their alley graded and the work does not improve the situation. These are pain points for me too!

As a community, working together, setting our priorities based on input from you, our citizens, we can achieve more. I have a mutually respectful relationship with our City Council, City Manager, and sta . We are listening to our community, and we are aware of the importance of communication with our citizens. There have been bumps along the way, but we are in the process of changing the culture at the City of Moose Jaw. We want excellence and common sense in our city services, and we are working towards that every day!

Actions speak louder than words!

Every day, our team is working to promote and market our city and we are seeing results in both economic development and population growth. Allow us to continue to work together to grow and sustain our city into the future.

This December, the Moose Jaw Co-op and the Co-op Ethanol Complex are thrilled to present “A Night in Nashville,” featuring a captivating songwriter’s round with the incredible talents of Damhnait Doyle, Jeff Cohen, Phil Barton, and Nice Horse sponsored by River Street Promotions (RSP).

A Night in Nashville will bring “an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling” on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Mae Wilson Theatre. Doors will open starting at 6:30 p.m.

The show will take place as a writer’s round or guitar pull, which is based on a southern tradition where a small group of musicians sit down and take turns playing songs on a guitar.

“Basically, the artists will all be on stage at the same time, and they just go down the line, taking turns performing songs, and they also tell the story of how this song came to be or what the song is about,” explained Jared Mathiesen, a RSP board member.

“So, it’s a very stripped-down acoustic version of the song,” he said. “And yeah, it’s kind of neat to see what they were thinking when they wrote it.”

The genres, he added, will likely include everything from country to pop to folk and will offer something for everyone.

Mathiesen and James Murdoch originally hosted similar events for the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. When RSP was founded, the annual Homestand concert became the promotional company’s flagship event but Mathiesen retained a show for high school students focused on mental health and continued to host the separate adult-focused writer’s round.

Proceeds raised by RSP are added to its youth mental wellness fund, which is accessible to both school divisions to use as they see fit with the goal of supporting youth mental wellness initiatives.

Returning this year will be host Joel Stewart and guests can expect plenty more of his telltale comedy routines during the show.

The overall experience, Mathiesen added, will feel like guests are directly transported to a concert hall in Nashville. “I remember, three years ago, I took some friends to Nashville and they were like, “Jared, this is exactly what you do in Moose Jaw,’” he recalled.

Guests will recognize many songs and the selection is expected to range from Gin Blossoms to the Paw Patrol theme song played by Jeff Cohen during his last Moose Jaw visit.

Damhnait Doyle “has one of the best voices in Canada,” Mathiesen said in one example. “She’s a proud Newfoundlander and she’s also the host of CBC Music (from) Monday to Friday (during) the morning show. It’s nice to have her take some time and help support the cause.”

All the artists scheduled to perform this December are friends supporting the same cause. “It’s cool too, because all four of these artists know each other in one way or another, which again, adds another element. They might play songs that they’ve

written together or they might sing them together,” he added.

“The songwriters love doing (the tour) because they love the (Mae Wilson) Theatre and they love Moose Jaw,” Mathiesen added. Each performer has been to Moose Jaw and this will be the first time an entire RSP-hosted lineup will have returning artists.

Plus, he said, guests can expect “a few surprises” and added that, in these writer’s rounds, “you never know what will happen or who will show up.” At the very least, an auction held during the show’s intermission will contain some “pretty cool stuff” — but you’ll have to attend to find out more.

For a glimpse into the show’s format, Mathiesen recommends watching a video called “Music City in Moose Jaw” available on RiverStreetPromotions.com.

Tickets are available starting at noon on Wednesday, Oct. 30, and can be purchased from the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts & Culture at Tickets@MooseJawCulture.ca or by calling 306-6934700. Mathiesen advised everyone to purchase their tickets early as last year’s show was sold out.

For more information visit RiverStreetPromotions.com or ‘River Street Promotions’ on Facebook.

Phil Barton is one of the artists set to perform during “A Night in Nashville” this coming Saturday, Dec. 14. Photo by: River Street Promotions

2024 Festival of Trees raises $184K for Moose Jaw’s hospital

The 33rd annual Festival of Trees gala, hosted by the Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF), transformed the Moose Jaw Events Centre into a Roaring ‘20’s-themed attraction for around 300 guests who helped raise funds for Moose Jaw’s hospital on Oct. 19.

At its conclusion, $184,000 was raised for new medical equipment at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital.

“Festival of Trees was absolutely amazing this year,” announced Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF. “We’re ecstatic because we know that the festival saves lives.”

This year’s festival was the creation of Kim Waldo and her volunteer team at the MJHF. “We’ll be bringing (the new bronchoscopy) service to the hospital because of the tremendous support at Festival of Trees,” McElree said.

To date, the festival has raised approximately $5.5 million for the health foundation’s Vision of Tomorrow campaign ensuring that the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital is one of the best-equipped in the Prairies.

To prepare for this year’s gala, the curling rink at the Moose Jaw Events Centre was transformed into “Moose Jaw’s biggest speakeasy event” titled “Sugar & Spice & Notoriously Nice.”

Preparations for the festival — which included a themed entrance tunnel, stylish ‘20s-era décor, and even a McLaughlin-Buick automobile — began on Oct. 16 and concluded four days later on Oct. 19. Credit for the glamourous setting is owed to Kim Waldo, her team of volunteers, the

Tunnels of Moose Jaw staff, and several businesses who volunteered their time.

“I have to say, the Moose Jaw Events Centre’s team was absolutely outstanding, and the meal they cooked was phenomenal — I’m still getting rave reviews,” McElree added. “JGL (Livestock) sponsored the beef tenderloin… (and) we’re very thankful for that.”

McElree also wished to thank emcees Dr. Nishaan Cheddie and Dr. Chun Huang, vocalist Stella Salido, and auctioneer Scott Johnstone who ran the auction alongside — for her first live auction experience — Kelly Carty, the business development officer for the Tunnels of Moose Jaw.

He also wished to thank entertainers

from Dance Images and the Regina-based band Mascara, who “closed the evening out with a very great live performance.”

Volunteers included several doctors and nurses and McElree said their role was much appreciated.

“(These medical professionals) recognized the impact that donations have on improving health care in the community,” he said. “They came out and showed tremendous support — not only volunteering their time, but they were also actively bidding all the way through the evening.”

Two of the items auctioned at this year’s festival included a quilt donated by the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild and an 18-foot (5.48 metre) Christmas tree that

will soon reside in the hospital’s lobby area.

The quilt, “A Splash of Colour,” was donated by the guild in memory of Wendy Findlay.

“It was a very touching moment,” McElree said. “(Findlay) was much loved and she passed away from lunch cancer. We’re raising funds for a bronchoscope, which is used to help people with lung cancer and COPD, so there was double meaning there.”

Dr. Thorpe won the quilt and then donated it back to the auction where Findlay’s daughter Tammy repurchased it. Together, they raised $7,150 for the campaign.

Another auctioned item was the “Light Up the Holidays Hospital Lobby Tree” that was sponsored by JGL Livestock for an impressive $25,000.

“(The) festival is a total community effort, and volunteers are the heart and soul of Moose Jaw,” McElree said. “I just want to thank everyone in the community that comes out to the Festival of Trees and the brunch…

“You know,” he continued, “for a community as big as Moose Jaw, (it) might not be the biggest city, but people in Moose Jaw have the biggest hearts.

“We at the foundation and the medical staff — and most of all the patients who benefit from people’s generosity — (wish to say) a big thank you.”

For more information about the MJHF or to donate to the Vision of Tomorrow campaign, visit MJHF.org or call 306-694-0373.

Three authors to read their newest works during meet-and-greet event

Three Moose Jaw authors are hosting a meet-and-greet on Saturday, Nov. 16, at Victory Church to discuss some of the newest projects they have been working on lately.

The event runs from 1 to 3 p.m., where Kathleen Knapp, Tamara Wanner and Heather Hancock will read and answer questions from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Their books will be available for purchase, while attendees can also enjoy some light refreshments.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Knapp released her first book “Navigating Grief: A Journey of Hope and Healing,” a 31-day devotional, earlier this year. She then released “Come To the Table: Pursuing Peace & Joy through Grace & Mercy,” a 31-day devotional with a companion journal, in August.

Both of Knapp’s books are based on blog posts she has written over the years. Meanwhile, she plans to release a memoir

next year.

For a while, Knapp has branded her ministry-type work under her name, kathleenknappwriter.com, but recently adopted the new moniker of Psalm139promises. com.

With a chuckle, Knapp said her second book is somewhat more positive than her first because the latter dealt with grief. However, she noted that there are positives to be found when dealing with emotionally challenging situations.

“There’s still the odd story in (‘Come

To the Table’) that relates to grief,” she continued. “There’s one in particular called ‘Tears drip off my chin’ that was a recent blog referring to the death of my son and finding hope in the memories, the hope of heaven and the hope we have in our faith.”

Other topics focus on faith, conquering fears, mental health, protecting one’s thoughts, trusting God and panic attacks.

“I think it’s amazing what God has done in the last three years (because) I only started writing three years ago,” Knapp said.

In that short time, she has published two books and four journals, is creating another book and is writing for four other publications — physical and virtual — including some in the United States. Furthermore, she has had more opportunities for speaking engagements.

“So I just find it fascinating the doors that God has opened (and) through my experiences being able to share some of the hope and faith with other people … ,” she said.

“He uses our pain for a purpose — I know that sounds cliché — but there is a Scripture about making beauty from ashes.

“If what I’ve been through can help someone else, then that, to me, is the most rewarding part,” Knapp added. “If something I’ve written about has helped someone in some way, then that’s been rewarding.”

Author Kathleen Knapp holds the newest devotional book she’s written, “Come to the Table,” and the accompanying journal. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The theme of the 33rd annual Festival of Trees fundraiser gala was “Sugar & Spice & Notoriously Nice.” Photo by: Aaron Walker

VOTE FROESE

MJ Votes

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Darrell Markin announced that he will be running for a position on Moose Jaw city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions on Oct. 26.

Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”

A: “I love Moose Jaw and want the city to thrive, grow, and be the best it can be,” Markin said. “I have always thought it was important to give back to the community if you thought value could be provided.”

Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”

A: Markin described himself as “a great listener who loves to learn.” “I am a candidate that will be present and take notes from others on how we can make our community safe, vibrant, and grow (it) to the best of our ability.”

Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”

A: “I sat on the Moose Jaw Warriors’ board of directors since 2012 to 2024,” Markin replied. “I was a Moose Jaw Police Commissioner from 2019 to 2023.

“Both these organizations are pillars to Moose Jaw’s community,” he said. “These positions have helped me understand the importance of bringing our community together, the value of feeling that our community is safe, and knowing we are protected from a professional police service.”

Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”

A: “I want Moose Jaw to grow and for companies to know that the city is open for business,” Markin said in his reply. “I want to see our tax base expand and for every person to be able to enjoy Moose Jaw, whether they are a resident or a visitor. I know we can get there.”

Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”

A: “I want to encourage community

much time left to get a new dump up and running.”

The third issue Markin brought up is to find a solution to the homelessness issue.

“There are many people (that are) currently homeless, and (some) families are on the verge of facing the issue themselves,” he said. “It is very important that we help find a solution — not years from now, but now.”

participation by inviting our citizens to town halls and surveys,” he said. “Listening to the community and demonstrating accountability and a commitment to representing our residents is vital to my mission.”

Q: “What are your top guiding values?”

A: “My top guiding values are transparency, an openness in the decision making process, and the sharing of information when it best serves our community,” Markin said. “I value empathy as it enables me to connect with the community and respond to their needs.”

Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”

A: Markin said that he believes a new council will deal with issues including the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) that are “very important to the fabric of our community.” “We must continue to find a fair and equitable way to assess properties — both from a business and a residential perspective.

“We need to address our city dump site,” he added, saying that “we don’t have

’24: Darrell Markin is running for Moose Jaw city council

move forward and to spread the word that Moose Jaw is open for business, look no further than Darrell Markin.”

Markin said he’s ready to help the city move forward. “I love Moose Jaw,” he declared. “We have the greatest people, and together, we can do a lot to create the best community. We have to work together and consider one another as a team.

Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”

A: “Citizens want someone that will represent them while being transparent, accountable, and who can show respect and empathy,” Markin replied. “I have the courage to make difficult decisions rather than just continue to be in the status quo.

“If you want Moose Jaw to continue to

“Let’s move Moose Jaw to be the best place to live in Canada,” Markin concluded.

You can reach out to Markin by emailing him at Darrell.Markin@gmail. com

The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Darrell Markin is running for a spot on Moose Jaw city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Darrell Markin (submitted)

Guest Editorial

C of C business survey shows growing concern

A survey recently conducted by the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce shows a growing concern among local businesses about safety, social issues and their effects on daily business operations.

Businesses indicated they have experienced increased incidents of loitering, vandalism, theft and rising concern about employee and customer safety.

The 77 business respondents highlighted the need for enhanced security measures, improved lighting, regular police patrols, community engagement such as community watch programs, infrastructure maintenance and support for unsheltered individuals to help reduce their presence around business premises.

In a period from 2021-2024, it was noted loitering and trespassing made up 82 per cent of the complaints, followed by vandalism, theft and violence each at 56 per cent. Financial losses also grew during that period in comparison to earlier years.

Calls to the Moose Jaw Police Service were made regularly by 68 per cent of the respondents. Satisfaction with the police response was generally viewed in a positive light although 60 per cent suggested prosecution efforts needed improvement, especially pertaining to repeat offenders.

The City of Moose Jaw did not fare as well with the business community. Only 23 per cent felt the city engaged effectively with businesses on the handling of social and criminal issues. Businesses emphasized the need for the city to take a more active role in addressing the root causes of crime.

The information from the survey clearly shows business frustration with the obstacles being faced. They have identified a number of steps to be taken that would improve the situation in Moose Jaw.

Forming a task force, developing an action plan, securing funding to put solutions in place, engagement of stakeholders, evaluation and promoting awareness of efforts being taken are suggestions for future discussion.

Perhaps the new city council will take time to study the survey results and then lead the way in the possible implementation of some of the recommendations. It will be easy for elected officials to suggest again that the city is not responsible for such issues as housing and mental health engagement, that other levels of government should be leading the way.

It is to be hoped this survey will have the desired outcome: all facets of the community working together to provide solutions to problems that are not unique to Moose Jaw but can be resolved in some measure by a shared goal, that of ensuring a safe environment for all elements of our society.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Warm Hearts project volunteers repair jackets to keep Moose Jaw warm this winter

The Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council (SWRC) is asking the community to donate any warm winter coats in need of minor mending so volunteers can help keep Saskatchewan’s residents warm this winter.

The SWRC is operating out of three communities including Regina and Saskatoon. In Moose Jaw, jackets can be donated to The Wandering Market from Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are launching the Warm Hearts project to mark Waste Reduction Week… and (the donation process) will continue until spring,” announced Deirdre Fritsch, the council’s project co-ordinator in an official statement.

Waste Reduction Week is held during the third week in October. Established in 2001, the goal is to inform Canadians about waste issues and to transition into a circular economy — defined as a model of production and consumption where existing products and materials are shared, leased, reused, repaired, and recycled to last as long as possible.

When coats and other warm winter items are received, project volunteers match each item containing broken zippers, torn seams, or other minor damages with the appropriate volunteer menders. Once repaired, these items are then passed on to local groups to be distributed to those most in need.

Since the inception of the Warm Hearts project in 2021, volunteers

You can help Warm Hearts project volunteers keep residents warm this winter by donating gently used winter jackets to The Wandering Market at 461 Athabasca Street East. Photo by: Saskatchewan

have repaired a total of 632 coats and other warm winterwear items — which have also been kept out of landfills.

Nadine Lee, owner of The Wandering Market, said she first got involved in the Warm Hearts project in 2022 and has received and forwarded 100 or more of those items over three years.

“We won a waste reduction award through the (SWRC) in Saskatoon,” Lee said. “So, they already knew about us through that and they approached us to do the program (in 2022).

“Our business mission is ‘Building community through local food,’” she continued. “So, any other opportunity to do that or to reduce waste is always something that we’re interested in.”

Lee said her business is open seven days a week and, with a large warehouse available to hold dona-

tions for the project, it was a natural fit.

“We just really want to be community focused, and this is something that we can do,” she said. “It’s something small that makes a big difference. (We just want to say) thank you from The Wandering Market to all the people who supported this program, either through donating jackets or the volunteers (who helped) fix the jackets.”

As an advocate for the community and the environment, the SWRC “leads in addressing the underlying causes of waste” by “identifying opportunities, creating connections, and promoting solutions,” an official statement reads.

The SWRC “strives for a wastefree Saskatchewan” and “provides accurate, balanced waste reduction information, encourages networking and partnerships, and offers input on policies that deal with solid and hazardous waste.”

“SWRC is grateful for its sewing volunteers, the groups that agree to be drop-off locations, and those who distribute the fixed items to the community,” Fritsch wrote.

For more information about the SWRC, visit SWRC.ca.

The Wandering Market, Moose Jaw’s drop-off location, is located at 461 Athabasca Street East and is open seven days of the week. For more information call 306-690-3553, visit TheWanderingMarket.com, or visit ‘The Wandering Market’ on Facebook.

Senior residents enjoy Halloween festivities at Chateau St.

Michael’s

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

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Thank you to all the

Guests who visited Chateau St. Michael’s last weekend may have been startled to find senior residents dressed like spiders, bumblebees, rabbits, and a whole host of spooky characters. There was no cause for any concern, of course, as the home was simply holding its Halloween carnival.

The carnival involved around 20 or 30 residents and took place throughout the day on Oct. 26.

“We haven’t had a carnival here for probably two years now, and this summer was either too hot or windy,” said Krista Bakken, the activity co-ordinator at Chateau St. Michael’s. “Anyways, we decided to have a Halloween (carnival).”

The carnival — including 20 games held across 22 activity stations — was made possible thanks to volunteers with the Girl Guides of Moose Jaw and a few Grade 10 students from Peacock Collegiate. These volunteers showed up at 9 a.m. to get an early start on decorating for the event.

“I had some students from Peacock (Collegiate) needing volunteer hours (for a school program)… so I

a little

thought, well, this is a good opportunity to have some teenagers come in and help,” she said. “We also have a few Girl Guides helping… and three of them are (also) my daughters.”

The Girl Guides connection came easily, she said, as Bakken also used to be a Girl Guide herself.

Chateau St. Michaels’ activity co-ordinator usually aims to have one or two big carnivals each year, and the home’s major programming also includes a Mother’s Day and Father’s Day social tea — although, with programming now available throughout the week from Monday to Friday many of these events are spread out.

Social events such as this are great ways for senior residents to improve their quality of life at the home.

“The residents… love stuff like this, and it gets them out,” she said. “Usually on Saturdays we don’t have activities, so this was a good opportunity for them to have an activity on a Saturday… and (was) just a nice, fun afternoon for them.”

The carnival involved residents going from station to station and playing games to earn tickets. Once

enough tickets were collected, they could exchange them for a number of gifts at the prize station. As well, a guessing booth included a jar of chocolates and the participant who guessed closest to the actual number got to win an additional prize.

To make sure that nobody celebrated on an empty stomach, the home’s own Chef Jason prepared an assortment of wonderfully decorated Halloween cupcakes for guests to enjoy.

It’s still too early to tell for sure, but Bakken said she’s hoping to hold the home’s next carnival next summer.

“I think this was just a fun time, and I had some help… (with) the carnival. I have two staff members that work under me and we wouldn’t have been able to it without these volunteers,” Bakken said in a message of thanks.

“I appreciate the students (and Girl Guides) that came in and yeah… that helped out a lot.”

Chateau St. Michael’s is located at 525 Seventh Avenue Southeast and can be reached at 306-6932323. For more information about the home, visit ChateauStMichaels. com or ‘Chateau St. Michael’s’ on Facebook.

Joyce WalterMoose Jaw Express
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Waste Reduction Council
Participants have
fun at the Chateau St. Michael’s Halloween photo booth on Oct. 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker
This resident — who claims to have never gone fishing before in his life — celebrated his 94th birthday in ghoulish style by fishing for miniature human skulls. Photo by: Aaron Walker
A volunteer helps a resident at one of the home’s 20 activity stations on Oct. 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker

A Vote for KIM ROBINSON for MAYOR is a Vote for:

the forgetful gardener will be able to do this because luckily the plant helps out. The large leaves growing low to the ground shade to roots and keep moisture in.

Pumpkins for the Prairies

As Hallowe’en is again upon us, it somehow seems fitting to devote some time to the pumpkin!

There was a time when home-grown pumpkins were a rare thing on the prairies as they are native to Central America and Mexico. The growing season there is lengthier than ours so pumpkins that usually need more time to reach maturity do well. Luckily for us, new varieties are coming out every year with shorter and shorter seasons needed to complete their growth. Planting and care is basically the same for all pumpkin varieties so which one you choose will depend on what plans you have for your pumpkins.

Pumpkin seeds should be started indoors in late March and planted outside when the ground has warmed and all danger of frost has passed. They need to be planted in full sun but can be pruned to be less “sprawly” in limited space. Pumpkins need to be kept moist but even

If your pumpkin plant is healthy but not producing any fruit, the problem is most likely that it is not being pollinated. Pumpkins have separate male and female flowers and are best pollinated with the help of bees. However, each individual blossom does not live long so if the weather is cool and the bees are not flying you may have to help out as the pollinator. With a small paintbrush, take some pollen from a male flower and put it on the central part of the female flower. You can tell the males from the females because the females have what looks like a tiny fuzzy green pumpkin just behind the flower.

There are many cultivars that you might like to grow so read on and try out as many as you have room for:

‘Autumn Gold’ is a classic mid-size pumpkin, with great orange colour. This is one of the first pumpkins to ripen in the season and will turn orange even before it’s fully ripe. The fruit grows about 10 inches (25.4 cm) in diameter and a foot (30.5 cm) tall, perfect for carving. They weigh between 8 (3.6 kg) and 15 pounds (6.8kg) and can be used for anything: cooking, baking and carving.

‘Spooktacular’ is a smaller variety, about 2 (.9kg) to 5 pounds (2.3kg), 6 inches (15cm) across. It’s a smooth skinned yellow-orange pumpkin that’s great for pies.

‘Big Autumn’ is the best large pumpkin for a Northern climate. It takes the same amount of time to reach maturity as the smaller short season varieties, but will grow to about 12 inches (30.5cm) and weigh anywhere from 15 (6.8kg) to 25 pounds (11.3kg).

‘Lumina’ is one of the newly developed white skinned varieties. These pumpkins have bright orange

flesh but are, honest to goodness, all white on the outside. It makes a tasty and more interesting dish because of the colour contrast but is also great for carving or just painting on. The Lumina grows to 8 inches (20.3 cm) by 12 inches (30.5 cm) tall and can weigh up to 15 pounds.

‘Jack Be Little’ is a delightful ornamental pumpkin. One plant should produce a lot of the tiny, slightly flattened looking fruit. They make great décor for Halloween as well as Thanksgiving.

Often the weather will force the harvest of the pumpkin before it is fully ripe.

Simply place your pumpkin in a warm sunlit room and rotate it if need be to ensure all sides get an equal amount of light and you’ll see your pumpkin slowly turn orange. Happy Hallowe’en!

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?

By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express

PSSD candidates meet to discuss educational issues during pre-election forum

To introduce candidates prior to the Wednesday, Nov. 13, school board election, Prairie South School Division (PSSD) No. 210 held a candidates’ forum where 10 out of the 11 total candidates were given the opportunity to discuss key education issues and introduce themselves. The candidates’ forum was held at the A.E. Peacock Collegiate auditorium on the evening of Oct. 21.

“Education is a key issue in both the provincial election and the local school board election,” declared Patty Mergel, president of the Prairie South Teachers’ Association during her introductory remarks.

“Tonight is an opportunity for us to hear from the trustee candidates in Subdivision 1 which includes the communities of Central Butte, Chaplain, Craik, Eyebrow, and Mortlach… (and from) candidates in Subdivision 6, which includes all Moose Jaw schools…,” she announced.

In Subdivision 6, which entails Moose Jaw’s schools, there are nine total candidates running for five available spots.

These nine candidates are:

·Abdul Alabi

·Kursty Bansley

·Patrick Boyle

·Ron Gorham

·Brett Hagan

·Mary Jukes

·Brian Martynook (absent)

·Tenielle McLeod

· Lew Young

The candidates’ forum was moderated by Craig Hemingway, the acting director of strategic growth for the City of Moose Jaw. His role during the forum was to regulate the discussion and keep each candidate on a time schedule.

Each candidate was allotted two minutes for an opening, closing, and for each question they are asked. Each candidate was pre-drawn through a random selection process to determine the speaking order.

Each of the candidates were then asked to answer two multi-part questions: “What are the biggest challenges in education and how will you address them,” and “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

Where to vote

For Moose Jaw residents voting in Subdivision 6, voting will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 13 at four poll locations that will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

These poll locations include:

Poll Location No. 1: Voters north of Thatcher Drive and east of Eleventh Avenue Northwest can vote at the Golden Nugget Centre, located at 250 Thatcher Drive East.

Poll Location No. 2: Voters on the northeast side of Moose Jaw can vote at the Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre, located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast.

Poll Location No. 3: Remaining voters on the north side of the city can vote at the Minto United Church, located at 1036 Seventh Avenue Northwest.

Poll Location No. 4: South Hill voters can vote at the Church of Our Lady, located at 566 Vaughan Street. Advanced polling for Subdivision 6 will take place exclusively at the Golden Nugget Centre, located at 250 Thatcher Drive East. Advanced polls will open at the following times:

Tuesday, Oct. 29: From noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30: From noon to 6 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 2: From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday, Nov. 4: From noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 5: From noon to 6 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 7: From noon to 6 p.m.

You can view a complete recording of the candidates’ forum online through the “Candidates’ Forum Recording” link at PrairieSouth.ca/Elections.

To view a list of the PSSD candidates visit PrairieSouth.ca/2024-ElectionCanddiates-Profiles.

For more information about the upcoming school board elections, visit PrairieSouth.ca/Elections.

The upcoming school board election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

PSSD candidates respond to question on budget priorities during forum

To introduce candidates prior to the Wednesday, Nov. 13, school board election, Prairie South School Division (PSSD) No. 210 held a candidates’ forum where 10 out of the 11 total candidates were given the opportunity to discuss key education issues and introduce themselves in the A.E. Peacock Collegiate auditorium on Oct. 21.

In Subdivision 6, which entails Moose Jaw’s schools, there are nine total candidates running for five available spots. Each candidate was present for the forum with the exception of Brian Martynook.

Moderated by Craig Hemingway, acting director of strategic growth for the City of Moose Jaw, each candidate was given two minutes to respond to the same two questions: “What are the biggest challenges in education and how will you address them?” and “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

For brevity, the Moose Jaw Express included summarized responses to one of those questions.

Abdul Alabi

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: Alabi’s first priority is investing in teachers and staffing. He said that teachers represent “the future of our students” and, with the right funding — including the provision of all their basic needs in the classroom — that future will be “very bright.”

His second priority is student resources and support services. “We need the funds to provide students with up to date facilities,” Alabi said.

Alabi’s third priority is facilities and buildings, which he said have largely been around for a while and many are in need of

proper maintenance.

Kursty Bansley

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: Bansley said the division already has a strategic plan for the next four years and she would base her decision off that. “Once voted in as a trustee, I would haves access to confidential business information that would allow me to be in a better position to assess what actually is a top priority to be based on the entire needs of the whole school division…,” Bansley said.

“Personally, I do agree with the strategic vision of increasing mental health and wellbeing supports and resources for our students and educators.”

Patrick Boyle

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: “The first one is innovation. We need to continue investing in innovation — that’s a budget priority,” Boyle said. He defined “innovation” as “everything from Pre-K to Pathways.”

“One of the things that Prairie South has… is that our teachers are some of the strongest…,” he said. “(W)e need to continue investing in the supports for them in the classroom” so that we can continue to create “those vibrant, contributing members of society.”

Boyle’s second priority is infrastructure. “You can’t have a good educational experience if the roof is dripping on top of you or beside your desk,” he said.

The third budget priority, he said, is “shifting ourselves back to some sort of (financial) balance.”

Ron Gorham

Q: “What are your top three budget

priorities for the school division?”

A: “It is crucial that our budgeting proprieties focus on enhancing educational outcomes, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both students and staff,” Gorham said. “My top three priorities are: staffing, programming, and maintaining our facilities.”

Gorham described these three priorities as “deeply interconnected” and said that “investing in one will yield benefits for the others.”

“To that end,” he continued, “a substantial portion of our budget should be allocated to hiring and retaining qualified staff. We must also prioritize innovative programming and stay current with economic advancements.”

Brett Hagan

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: Hagan said his first priority is classroom supports. “We know how important it is to have a low ratio of students to teachers and how well this will help with learning and classroom composition.”

His second priority is the carbon tax.

“From 2018 to 2024, Prairie South has paid over 1.6 million in carbon taxes. It is scheduled to continue to rise up until 2030, and this is a big concern for education. We are projecting for this fiscal year to be losing over $500,000,” Hagan said. “If something doesn’t change, the cost to school divisions will be significantly higher.”

Hagan’s third priority is learning enhancements. “Pre-kindergarten and Pathways are such learning enhancements,” he explained.

Mary Jukes

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: “The first (priority) is supporting classrooms. Classroom staff would be determined by class size (and I will) also address classroom complexity and mitigating it,” Jukes said.

“The second priority is enhancing opportunities for students,” she said. Jukes listed three programs she views as successful in this effort: Pre-K programming, the Pathway School for atrisk students, and the Voices to Encourage Change program.

“Number three (is) the Provincial Education Plan’s strategic ongoing mental health supports.”

Tenielle McLeod

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: “My priorities regarding budget are around getting teachers what they need,” McLeod said. “(This) might mean the division needs more funding generally; it might mean making it really clear how they… can access funds; it might mean fundraising or securing sponsorships from the community.

“My top budgeting priorities then are those that need to align with government, our own divisional strategic plan, and transparency, so we can ensure teachers are getting what they need to succeed.”

Lew Young

Q: “What are your top three budget priorities for the school division?”

A: “Number one would be supporting the classroom with resources, and those resources could be extra assistance, more teachers, and ensuring that supports are there,” Young said. “The need to reduce wait times for resources such as speech and language pathologists, councillors, and educational assistants.

“Number two: maintaining the same level of services and to work at increased levels of support,” he said, adding that the division has financial reserves that allow them to do this.

“Number three would be early childhood development and Pre-K programs within our division,” Young said. “Pre-K plays a vital role in children’s development; it provides a strong foundation for later academic, social, and emotional growth.”

You can view a complete recording of the candidate’s forum online through the “Candidates’ Forum Recording” link at PrairieSouth.ca/Elections.

To view a list of the PSSD candidates visit PrairieSouth.ca/2024-ElectionCanddiates-Profiles.

For more information about the upcoming school board elections, visit PrairieSouth.ca/Elections.

The upcoming school board election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Oh Clark’s

I couldn’t live without my grasshopper...

Reflective Moments

I wonder what happened to the bedsheet costume?

The home-carved jack-o-lantern in the window, the Halloween decoration of the olden days, does not hold a candle to the over-the-top home and yard displays that have once again popped up around the city in anticipation of visiting ghouls and goblins.

There is still a bit of time to hop in the car with the family to tour the city to see just what is percolating for Thursday’s night of fun and fears. Some of displays are creepy in their simplicity. Others are spooktacular with lights and sound effects that would surely confuse any alien visitors who happen to stop in the city.

Halloween in the country in my growing up years was much simpler. Costumes were usually homemade and had been recycled through several siblings and even friends and families. Because there were so few of us roaming the streets of our village and because are voices were known to every resident, it was not difficult to figure out the names of the cowboy, ballerina, witch, ghost and even the guy who only wore a mask, much like the Lone Ranger.

I do wonder what my mother did with the Halloween bedsheet I used several times to attend school parties as the community ghost. There were holes cut out for the eyes, nose and mouth. Eyebrows were drawn on with coloured pencils. And the mouth was designed to curl up or

down, changeable each year for variety’s sake.

That bedsheet was one-size-fits-all and saved the bother of trying to be creative each year to produce the most interesting costume. It was hardly worth the effort for such a short parade at the school and then the after-dark jaunt from house to house.

I do recall being upset one year when my Mother was one of the costume judges for the school parade and she voted to award the best costume prize to someone else. I can understand her reasoning now, but back then it was a betrayal of extraordinary proportion. I and the other losers did win a participation ribbon.

I wonder now if that bedsheet got turned into pillow cases and dish towels for my hope chest. Mom would definitely not have wasted one scrap of that ghostly bed covering.

The tiny girl loudly made her opposition known to having a needle or a “tiny poke” in her arm. She was not shy about expressing her dislike for needles and the adults nearby heard her objection loud and clear.

While we listened to her cries and pleas, the adult in us thanked her quietly for taking our attention off what was happening to our own arms: a needle in the left for flu and one in the right for the Covid booster.

The views and opinions expressed

There are few among us who don’t think back to our own childhoods when it came time for the regular shots that would stop us from catching measles and other childhood diseases.

I don’t recall the school nurses who came to the classroom ever calling the needle a “tiny poke.” In fact, I’m not sure they even spoke to us, except to ensure themselves of our identities. And they certainly didn’t offer a sticker, a fancy bandaid or a sucker to help alleviate our pain.

Then again, none among us, that I recall, ever gave in to the desire to shed a few tears over being pierced for our good health. That would have been a blemish on our heroism.

To add insult to my annual injury, the nurse would show up on our family’s doorstep to share our lunch. That might have happened because of my Dad being on the school board and he felt he had to be neighborly. Or maybe our family got paid to provide her lunch.

Upon reflection I would have to say the shot against childhood diseases wasn’t 100 per cent effective: I recall measles, mumps on one side, chicken pox, mumps on another side, and then mumps on both sides.

Maybe it was too much to expect from “a tiny poke.” Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

From The Kitchen

Oven prepared dishes suitable for pot luck sharing

A pot luck supper might be on the horizon. The burning question: what to take to impress the other guests?

This week’s recipes, received from a long-time friend, would fit in nicely on any pot luck table.

• BARLEY MUSHROOM CASSEROLE

4 tbsps. butter

1 onion, chopped

1/2 cup chopped celery

1 cup washed pearl barley

1 can sliced mushrooms, drained with juice saved

2 cups beef broth

salt and pepper to taste

Melt the butter in a large skillet. Add the chopped onion, celery, barley and mushrooms. Stir and cook in the skillet until vegetables are soft. Place in a large, greased casserole. Add mushroom juice and beef broth. Add salt and pepper. Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for about 50 minutes. Stir and if necessary, add more liquid to keep casserole moist.

• • •

LAZY PEROGY CASSEROLE

9 lasagna noodles

2 cups dry cottage cheese

1 egg

1 small onion, chopped

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 cups mashed potatoes

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. onion salt

pepper to taste

1 cup margarine

1 cup chopped onion

Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain.

Place 3 noodles on the bottom of a 9x13 inch pan.

In a medium bowl mix the cottage cheese, egg and chopped onion together. Spoon over noodles and spread to cover. Place three more noodles over the cottage cheese mixture.

Mix cheddar cheese and potatoes, onion salt and pepper. Spread over the second noodle layer. Place final three noodles over the potato layer.

Melt margarine in a frying pan and cook onion slowly until soft and clear. Pour over top noodles.

Cover pan and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with sour cream.

GARLIC SPARERIBS

1 cup white sugar

2 tbsps. soy sauce

3/4 cup white vinegar

1/4 cup water

2 tbsps. corn starch

1 tbsp. HP sauce

garlic powder to taste

Mix sauce ingredients together. Place spareribs in a roaster and drench with sauce.

Cover and bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes. Uncover and cook for another 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to coat ribs.

Serve with rice or noodles.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Duelling pianists from Calgary to headline Central Butte fundraiser

Tickets are still available for a musically humorous fundraiser that the Town of Central Butte’s fire department is holding to help support its project to build a new $1.1-million hall.

Two duelling pianists from the Aussie Rules Piano Bar in Calgary are bringing their comedic schtick and party-song repertoire to the east-central Saskatchewan community on Saturday, Nov. 9. The duo will sing songs from the 1950s to the present and from country to rock to hip hop and R&B; they will also take requests.

The event — taking place at the Centre Butte School — kicks off at 4 p.m. with cocktails, followed by supper at 5:30 p.m., a silent auction around 7 p.m., and then three hours of duelling pianos starting at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are still available, but the deadline to purchase them is Friday, Nov. 1. Tables seat six or eight people, while tickets are $100 each regardless of which seating option groups or individuals choose.

There will be 40 tables in total, while organizers expect roughly 300 people to attend.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

For tickets, call Eldon at 306-796-7896.

“(I’m) looking forward to it. We’ve had duelling pianos in the past and it went over real well,” said Fire Chief Myron Fowler. “… it was a formal evening for that event and we decided to keep that up for this year.

“It was a lot of positive feedback (we received). People actually enjoyed getting out dressed up a little bit and having a nice evening out,” he continued.

The Aussie Rules pianists were in Central Butte seven years ago for a fundraiser. Fowler noted that they were great then and they should be great again this time.

This event is the fire department’s largest fundraiser in its quest to build a bigger new fire hall that can accommodate its equipment and vehicles and provide more meeting spaces.

This additional space will ensure firefighters can train and learn throughout the week instead of on specific nights that may not fit their schedules. It will also ensure firefighters can access all the equipment easily and quickly when responding to calls.

The building will cost $1.1 million to build, with the fire department aiming to raise roughly $300,000 from the community.

River Grove Homes from Outlook is constructing the new hall, which will be located on Highway 19 south of the Co-op. The company started construction in September and expects to hand over the building keys by next spring.

“So we gotta try to have all the money raised and ready for construction finalization in the spring so we can move in and start utilizing the new building,” said Fowler.

The fire department has so far received cash donations from donors, while it is also acquiring door prizes and silent auction items for the musical fundraiser, he added. After the event concludes, organizers will see how much money they have raised and how much more they have left to acquire.

Duelling pianists from the Aussie Rules Piano Bar in Calgary. Photo courtesy Facebook

Have insurance when travelling outside Canada

A business commentator recently pointed out that Canadians have cut back on spending but are still travelling. But travellers have cut back on buying travel insurance.

A recent survey by TD Bank found only one-third of travellers plan to buy emergency travel insurance and cancellation insurance.

Forty per cent did not feel they could afford travel insurance.

That reduction in travel insurance brings to mind the old proverb: Penny wise and pound foolish: translating into small savings may well cost much more later.

Unless people are living under a rock they have all heard of the horror stories by some travellers who did not have travel insurance, or believed they were covered.

Running up a $100,000 health care tab from a heart attack, stroke or other serious ailment is easily done in the U.S.A. That kind of unexpected bill can financially ruin a couple.

Just being flown home by air while sick can equal the cost of a medium-sized car.

Terms and conditions of various travel insurance

policies vary.

One of the more serious involves loss of benefits if a prescription – any prescription – was changed in the six months before the trip. Or denial for a pre-trip medical condition that gets worse while away.

A number of years ago a friend travelling in the U.S.A. fell and required stitches. Cost was $800 plus US dollars.

Sask. Health only covered a small portion.

The older one gets, the more insurance may be needed and the more it costs.

And the rates are up in the stratosphere.

Looking at rates by one of the highly-touted companies, endorsed by several large organizations, fees show the age difference is notable.

The standard policy rates for a healthy person for a one to three day visit, $1,000 US deductible; for ages 5660 is $99.

For someone aged 80-85 that rate is $358.

The company offers a discount of up to 20 per cent putting the rate at $286.40. Add GST and PST and the rate is $317.9 —or $206 per day for a three day trip.

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

For a 21-24 day trip the 56-60 aged person would pay $297, with $2,493 for 80-85 years

That seems an outrageous fee. Without travel insurance the financial risks are immense.

Someone aged in their mid-80s found a travel insurance rate of $58 for 15 days.

Be sure you know exactly what coverage you have and the terms and conditions in the policy that must be followed to avoid denial of benefits.

Canadians took 21.5 million visits to the U.S.A. in 2018. The travel insurance business must be lucrative.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

City managers from across Sask. attend first manager’s meeting held in Moose Jaw

As part of her regular duties, city manager Maryse Carmichael attended a recent city manager’s meeting but with a first — because of the ongoing civic and provincial elections, the forum was held in Moose Jaw.

The Saskatchewan City Managers Forum took place at city hall on Oct. 25 and included Carmichael along with around 13 other city managers from across the province.

“Quite often we see the similarities of every city and every municipality across the province,” said Dion Pollard, the city manager of Lloydminster, Sask. “(We all have) different issues, but (we) also have a lot of the same issues, and so it’s an opportunity for us to share how we handle them, and what that might look like in every municipality.”

The role of city manager entails a responsibility for most day-to-day municipal administrative operations. These duties include technical advising on governmental operations, public relations, oversight of all recruitment, dismissal, and disciplinary

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

tasks, and overseeing the city budget.

The purpose of the forum is to allow city managers from across the province to share and discuss ideas, talk about potential solutions to common problems, and just to “help each other out.” The meetings are not meant to result in policy decisions and topics can range from council administration to budgets.

“It’s nice to know what’s happening in Weyburn and Estevan and Lloydminster,” Pollard said. “We don’t always communicate with (each other) on a regular basis, so it’s always good to see what’s happening across Saskatchewan.”

The meetings, he explained, usually involve both a mayor’s caucus followed by a manager’s meeting and happen twice annually in either Saskatoon or Regina.

With civic and provincial elections now on the horizon, one key topic of discussion at this meeting was how to orient the new council members to their roles and what best practices would look like.

“An example brought up today is (the question of what if) one council, or one

city, does a mock council meeting as a training tool for newly elected officials,” Pollard said. This training tool, he added, would demonstrate “not only what the orientation looks like, but what the first three to six months might look like in terms of how we help our councillors get oriented to the job.”

Pollard said this manager’s meeting involved experienced chief administrative officers (CAOs) — municipal administrators whose job is to advise council on its operations and to manage the city’s daily administrative functions — as well as some that are new and was therefore “a great opportunity” for them to learn more about the role.

Such meetings often feature guest speakers, and this year was no different. A

representative from the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) was in attendance and spoke about an update on its role in the ongoing elections along with “half a dozen” other topics.

“We’re also in budget season, so you know, (we will also share) ideas (about) what some of the factors that municipalities are experiencing across the province — lots of different things like that,” Pollard added.

Although no policy outcomes will result from the meeting, Pollard said Moose Jaw is in “a reasonably central” location for most participants. The meeting may even — it could be argued — draw more attention to Moose Jaw as a possible destination to host these and similar events in future.

NOTICE

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Resort Village of South Lake intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 27-15, known as the Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT:

The proposed bylaw will amend the Zoning District Map:

1. By rezoning from R-Residential to C-Commercial all of Lot 5-Blk/Par 41-Plan 81MJ10924 Ext O as shown within the bold dashed line on the map below:

REASON:

The reason for the bylaw amendment is to accommodate a request to run a commercial business in a residential district.

PUBLIC INSPECTION:

Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Resort Village of South Lake office between 9:00 am and 3:30 pm Mondays to Wednesdays excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available at cost at the Municipal Office.

PUBLIC HEARING:

Council will hold a public hearing to receive submissions on the proposed bylaw on the 19th day of November 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Regional Municipal Plaza, Municipal Office Boardroom #2. Council will also consider written submissions received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing. For further information, please contact the municipal office at 306-692-7399.

Issued at the Resort Village of South Lake on this 30th day of October 2024.

Signed

Administrator

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE NEW CITY COUNCIL IS MONDAY, NOV. 18, WHILE THE FIRST REGULAR MEETING IS MONDAY, NOV. 25.

After being used very little for a decade, a city-owned building that was once used as a music venue and to store sports equipment has been sold to a private company.

During its Oct. 21 regular meeting, city council unanimously accepted a tender for the sale of 441 Fairford Street West from R.L. McLauchlan Holdings Ltd. for $241,050. It also authorized the mayor and city clerk to sign the sales agreement and any other documents.

Council was required to authorize the purchase because the price exceeded the city manager’s approving authority of $100,000 under the city administration bylaw.

The City of Moose Jaw owns the property and building, which was most recently used as the city’s sports equipment library, as storage for the playground program and by the engineering and facilities division, a council report said. However, the city has not made any significant investments in the venue during the past 10 years.

City sells former Lions’ band hall building to private business

Before the city purchased the building, the structure was commonly known as the Moose Jaw Lions Junior Band Hall.

The city obtained quotes in 2023 to partially restore the building by replacing exterior doors and windows, adding an overhead door for vehicle access, completing washroom renovations, upgrading the furnace and HVAC systems, enhancing lighting and painting the exterior, the report said.

The estimated cost for those upgrades was $135,000.

City administration had the property assessed recently by a third-party appraiser, who determined the estimated fair market value was $230,000, the document continued.

The department of community services issued a tender in September for the property, with a reserve bid of $230,000. It also contacted parties that had previously expressed interest in the building to let them know about the tender, but none responded.

R.L. McLauchlan Holdings Ltd. was the only group to submit a bid and offered a deposit of $24,105, which represented 10 per cent of the total bid.

“This (tender submission of $241,050) is considered a fair value given the property’s current condition and the ongoing costs to maintain the building and property,” the report said.

With this sale, the city could receive a minimum of $4,091.84 annually in tax revenue, although that could increase depending on the type of business that the new owner starts and assessments on commercial properties, the report added.

Mayor Clive Tolley commended city administration for keeping track of a property that the municipality was not using fully, that was not bringing in tax revenue and that could be sold. He pointed out that the proponent submitted a bid that met the minimum amount, while that company will improve the building for business purposes, which would mean more taxation for city hall.

“So I think it’s a win-win for the city,” he added.

Selling this building and the property is a good move, while the city is receiving fair value for it, said Coun. Jamey Logan. He thought the people taking ownership would “do a bang-up job” of renovating the structure, while he also appreciated that the property would generate tax revenue.

Coun. Crystal Froese said the building needed some tender loving care, while she was excited to see how the new company used it. However, she was saddened that the Lions’ logo would no longer be on the front of the building, a move that symbolized “the end of that era” since the organization has a significant history in Moose Jaw.

City administration told council — in response to a question from Coun. Doug Blanc — that the property may need to be rezoned based on how the company uses the building.

Downtown security cams could better protect area, Luhning says

Recent incidents of graffiti and property damage downtown have prompted city council to consider funding the installation of security cameras to potentially better protect the area.

Coun. Dawn Luhning introduced a motion during the Oct. 21 regular meeting to have city administration prepare a report for the 2025 budget discussions about possibly working with the Moose Jaw Po-

lice Service to install cameras on some of the city’s traffic and roadway infrastructure around the area.

Luhning explained that she saw a social media post from a business owner saying vandals had damaged his property. That prompted her to reflect on the fact that some residential properties have doorbell cameras or other security devices to catch “porch pirates” or the odd stray cat.

Furthermore, while reading the post, she saw someone’s comment saying the business owner should install security cameras to deter future incidents.

“I thought that was a very good piece of advice, and so it got me thinking that maybe it’s something the city can do to participate with helping with … things going around downtown,” Luhning said. “But it might also be a benefit for the police service and possibly for the city as well if there is any damage done to our property.

Luhning said she understood that this was a complicated situation since the downtown was a wide area. However, she pointed out that all she wants is for the administration to bring a report with options about whether the city could install security cameras on infrastructure like traffic signals or city-owned buildings like city hall.

Council then voted 6-1 to accept the motion; Coun. Kim Robinson was opposed.

After the meeting, Mayor Clive Tolley said that adding cameras could make people feel more secure since the devices can record who comes to the property.

Moreover, he thought adding cameras to more locations was a “good idea” since they could support existing cameras and contribute to better surveillance should an incident happen. This would create a digital record and help “find the bad guys” so the police can prosecute them.

Tolley said he wasn’t concerned that more security cameras downtown would infringe on residents’ privacy rights, considering people are already on a public street and someone could take their picture or video.

“What I’m concerned about is somebody’s been tagging a lot of the buildings downtown this last few months, and then we as a city have to issue an order for the property owner to paint over that mess that people put on building … ,” he continued.

“Maybe we can catch some of these graffiti artists and stop the willful damage that’s taking place, prosecute people, and keep our downtown core clean the way it should be in a historical look that everybody appreciates,” the mayor remarked.

Tolley added that people tell him daily that they enjoy coming to Moose Jaw to see the historical buildings, so if cameras can stop vandals or graffiti artists from ruining such surfaces, then so much the better.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

The Development Appeals Board (DAB) has allowed two individuals to proceed with their construction projects even though the initiatives contravene the zoning bylaw.

The board met on Oct. 15 to hear from homeowner Gordon Ross at 712 Fairford Street East and businessman Brad Panko with Harvard Developments Corporation at 325 Thatcher Drive East after city hall denied their respective requests to build a detached garage and building addition.

712 Fairford Street East

Ross wants to construct a detached garage that is 87.33 square metres (940 square feet) in size and five metres (16.42 feet) in height, with the structure in the R1 large-lot low-density residential district, the board’s report said.

However, the zoning bylaw says that the proposed floor area of the accessory building exceeds the prescribed requirements of 83.61 square metres (900 square feet) for that district. Moreover, its height exceeds the maximum allowed height of 4.5 metres (14.76 feet) when the principal structure is under six metres (19.69 feet) in the R1 district.

Ross told the board that this proposed development plan and floor area are identical to a project that the board approved in May 2022.

Meanwhile, a city hall planner said that while the municipality was aware of Ross’ development submis-

Appeals board approves two building projects that conflict with zoning bylaw

sion, refusal and subsequent appeal approval in 2022, he pointed out that this appeal was necessary because the variances that the board granted on the development two years ago had expired.

After considering the proposal, the board approved the appeal because:

• It would not be a special privilege since the board would grant a similar appeal in the same district

• It would not relax the zoning bylaw since it would not hinder the health, safety or general welfare of the community

• It would not injuriously affect the neighbouring properties because no one within 75 metres complained about it and there was no evidence that it would result in an unreasonable interference or cause damage or harm

325 Thatcher Drive East

Panko wants to construct an addition to an existing building on an “irregular commercial lot” that is roughly 80.86 metres by 108.20 metres (65 feet by 355 feet) in size in the C3 vehicle-oriented commercial district, the report said. The proposed development would be 336 square metres (3,616.67 square feet) in size and would be built on the south side.

However, in 2019, city hall made “sweeping changes” to all zoning districts that condensed the development standards in each district into one set for all future permitted and discretionary uses, the document contin-

Council appoints new Peacock student to youth advisory board after classmate resigns

City council has appointed a new A.E. Peacock Collegiate student to sit on this year’s youth advisory committee after the previously appointed candidate resigned before the group had its first meeting.

Council unanimously approved Micky Peebles to the advisory board during its Oct. 21 regular meeting. The teen’s term begins immediately and concludes on Monday, June 30, 2025, or until a successor is appointed.

Council also accepted the resignation of former committee member Lucas Kastning, who also attends Peacock Collegiate.

On Sept. 24, the city clerk’s office received an email from Kastning — whom council had appointed on Aug. 12, along with 12 other youths — saying he was resigning from the youth advisory committee, a council report said. Meanwhile, on Sept. 30, the school’s principal provided an alternate nomination to fill the vacancy that Kastning’s resignation left.

Included in the council package was the email Kastning sent to the city clerk’s office announcing that he had to “withdraw (his) participation on this committee.” However, the clerk’s office blacked out the reason why the high school student was withdrawing.

The youth advisory committee accepted Kastning’s resignation during its first meeting on Oct. 2, the report added.

Peebles will join the following students on this year’s youth advisory committee:

• A.E. Peacock Collegiate: Kaylee Hogeboom

• Vanier Collegiate: Arlyn Dequina and Maria Pouteaux

• Central Collegiate: Drew Amel and Nathan Pisio

• Cornerstone Christian School: Drew Biette and Mateah Purdy

• Riverview Collegiate: Emma Russell and Lexus Schoffer

• Saskatchewan Polytechnic: Altaf Iqbal Mansuri and Nandinee Barot

• École Ducharme: None

The advisory committee has several responsibilities,

such as:

• Endeavour to increase positive public awareness and understanding by youths of local government and assist in developing new outreach and/or communication policies, strategies and programs

• To network with peers and community leaders and to participate in a forum that is open, welcoming and fun

• To provide communication between youths of Moose Jaw and city council that will enhance the quality of life, health and well-being of those youths

• Make recommendations on youth recreational opportunities and community activism

• To identify things in the City of Moose Jaw that are valued by youths, including the things that are considered assets, strengths and opportunities in our community

• To act as a positive advocate and provide leadership experience for youths

• To network with student councils and other youth organizations.

Meanwhile, the group’s expectations include:

• Recognize that the chief role of the City of Moose Jaw is to provide exceptional customer service to customers, citizens, visitors of Moose Jaw and each other

• To create a city of communities, a city that cares about its people, the environment and the opportunities to live, work and prosper

• Recognize the importance of teamwork to provide the best possible service to internal and external customers Meanwhile, city hall is looking for residents to sit on the Board of Police Commissioners, Development Appeals Board, public library board, Palliser Regional Library board and Wakamow Valley Authority board. The deadline to apply is Friday, Nov. 1, so for more information or to apply, email cclerk@moosejaw.ca or call 306-694-4424.

ued. These changes included increasing the side-yard setback to three metres (9.84 feet) from 1.2 metres (3.94 feet).

The report noted that city hall denied Panko’s project because the proposed side-yard setback of 1.2 metres contravenes the required setback of three metres in a C3 district.

Panko told the board that the existing building was constructed in 2016 under the former setback requirement of 1.2 metres, while the structure lies 1.7 metres (5.58 feet) off the west property line and 1.64 metres (5.38 feet) off the southwest property line.

The 2019 bylaw changes now mean the building no longer meets the prescribed setbacks, while adhering to them would require Harvard Developments Corporation to construct an “irregular-shaped floor plan and (would) create a hardship to lease the property,” the report said. The proposed development plan “is presented as the best design for the property.”

After considering the proposal, the board approved the appeal for reasons similar to Ross’ decision.

The board presented its report during the Oct. 21 regular city council meeting, with council voting unanimously to receive and file the document.

The inaugural meeting of the new city council is Monday, Nov. 18, while the first regular meeting is Monday, Nov. 25.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE NEW CITY COUNCIL IS MONDAY, NOV. 18, WHILE THE FIRST REGULAR MEETING IS MONDAY, NOV. 25.

Gravel roads can sometimes cause problems for residential and commercial properties, so to address that, city council will consider enhancing those streets in its upcoming budget.

Coun. Crystal Froese introduced a motion during the Oct. 21 regular meeting to have council prioritize increasing funding for gravel road maintenance, repair and dust control and discuss this situation during its 2025 budget discussions.

Her initial motion focused on grid roads, but city administration suggested she change that to gravel to ensure the recommendation included all city streets.

Froese explained that she developed this motion because there are two areas where gravel roads negatively affect people. One location is Stadacona Street West from 16th Avenue Northwest across Thatcher Drive and further west. This is a commercial area dealing with deteriorating road conditions and dust problems.

A second location is Caribou Street East from 11th Avenue Northeast, which runs from residential to commercial properties and finishes at the paved Highway 1.

“Both of these … have inconsistent road conditions and create ongoing challenges for the businesses, residents and the commuters,” said Froese.

“Dust control is also another critical issue. It impacts not just nearby residents, but also employees and customers in these commercial zones,” she continued. “And our

Council to consider enhancing gravel roads in upcoming budget

poor dust control affects their air quality, working conditions and the customer experience.”

Addressing these roads during the budget process is crucial to ensure that Moose Jaw’s infrastructure encourages residential well-being and supports the growth of businesses, Froese said. While there are dust-control products the municipality can apply, these streets require extra attention.

Froese noted that her short-term goal is to see these roads enhanced, although it is also important to include them in future paving plans, especially Stadacona Street West, which has never been paved west of Thatcher Drive.

She added that some streets off Ninth Avenue Southwest have been gravel for years, although some area homeowners have rejected having the city pave them since such projects fall under local improvement programs.

Coun. Jamey Logan agreed with the motion because when he sat on the Humane Society board, members complained about how dust negatively affected the animals kept outside. He argued that while that road requires extra attention, the very least the city could do was manage the dust for the animals’ sake.

The condition of gravel roads has been a problem for years, so council should attempt to address this concern in the upcoming budget, said Coun. Dawn Luhning.

Furthermore, she hoped that the new council would

give homeowners and business owners the opportunity to participate in local improvement programs to upgrade their gravel roads, while her long-term hope was that the city eliminated all such streets within its boundaries.

Council has received many complaints about various dusty gravel roads, such as the 900 and 1000 blocks of Hochelaga Street East, said Coun. Doug Blanc. He understood that council couldn’t afford to pave all gravel streets but thought it should make them a priority to help the business community.

Once developers finish road projects and return them to the municipality, city hall always wants them to pave those roads as part of the contract, city administration told council. Also, homeowners and businesses adjacent to gravel roads must pursue local improvement programs — a 51-per-cent buy-in is required — if they want those streets converted to paved ones.

“Normally, paving for any area would be part of the initial lot sale price (but) a number of these areas didn’t ever participate in that, so that’s where they become local improvements,” said finance director Brian Acker. “Certainly council in their prerogative could decide, ‘We want to pave this road,’ and pave it.”

Council then voted unanimously to accept the motion.

Free downtown washrooms could support homeless, businesses, council says

Finding accessible washrooms downtown can be difficult for some homeless and low-income residents, while some may disturb businesses looking for such venues, so city council may consider building a standalone facility to alleviate those pressures.

Coun. Heather Eby introduced a motion during the Oct. 21 regular meeting to have city administration prepare a report for the 2025 budget discussions about constructing washrooms in the downtown , along with the costs and the sources of funding to support such a project.

Residents suggested the idea of installing a downtown washroom during a public meeting in late July, although that idea never arrived at council’s table until now, Eby said, apologizing for not bringing the concept sooner.

“It’s really become apparent in these last months that there is definitely a need in the downtown core for public washrooms. Many businesses have got signs up that their washrooms are for patrons only, which I totally understand,” she continued.

“There are people who have abused the privilege of public washrooms, and I do not blame businesses one iota for closing those to anybody who’s not doing business there.”

However, everyone requires a washroom to perform

bodily functions, while people who are homeless also require such venues, Eby said. It is likely “absolutely … humiliating” for such residents to do their bodily business outside wherever they can find a spot, while it’s also “absolutely disgusting” for property owners to find that mess and “is very distasteful” for the public.

Eby said she wanted administration to present the next council with options for how this issue could be addressed, pointing out that Saskatoon recently did something similar. However, if she is re-elected, she would not want a “comfort station” standalone building similar to what’s in Crescent Park since that could cause more problems.

“But at the very least, porta potties in some location that would not be an eyesore would be beneficial. This would give some relief to businesses downtown and for people who are in need,” she added. “This is not a pleasant conversation and no one wants to talk about it, but it is something that is happening and we are all aware of it.”

Coun. Crytal Froese said she would be interested in the location options that city administration presented, while she hoped the new council would consult with downtown businesses about it.

She also acknowledged that this issue has burdened

some shops and some have hung up signs prohibiting non-paying customers from using bathrooms, although she pointed out that other cities have open public washrooms in the downtown “for obvious reasons.”

There are public washrooms on the main floor of the Moose Jaw Police Service’s headquarters building, but some people may not want to use that venue “for a variety of reasons,” said Coun. Doug Blanc.

Meanwhile, he wondered if the bathrooms on the main floor of city hall were open to the public, to which city administration replied that they were.

“So we do have some, but I’m not opposed to having other options, maybe in other locations to help the people,” Blanc added.

Coun. Kim Robinson said he wanted the report to contain information about the ongoing maintenance costs of a standalone washroom building since, based on reports from other communities, such facilities usually come with problems.

“Sometimes we receive reports that only contain the sunny side, but I want to see the worst-case scenarios,” he added.

Council then voted unanimously to accept the motion.

Business owner wants Lillooet Street property re-converted to residential use

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

A building on Lillooet Street West that was once a residence before being converted into a business is being de-converted to its original purpose because the business is experiencing financial challenges.

During its Oct. 21 regular meeting, city council voted unanimously to approve a discretionary use application from MS Technology Solutions Corp., to turn 453 Lillooet Street West from a retail store into a one-unit dwelling.

The property is in the C2 high-density commercial district where such dwellings are considered a discretionary use. Furthermore, the block is divided between the C1 and R1 districts, with this property near the boundary line.

The owner of the business has been operating his electronic appliance store at this location since April 2020 but has decided to explore other options for the property because he has been unable to find another commercial tenant or buyer.

“Due to the rapid development of the market and network technology, traditional electronics appliance stores have become very difficult,” the owner said in his discretionary use application.

Since the existing structure was originally designed

as a one-unit dwelling, the changes required to return it to that purpose will be small and may not be noticeable from the outside, while there will likely be little to no observable differences in appearance, a council report said.

Meanwhile, the dwelling will likely create fewer vehicle trips, noise and related activity and have minimal effects on the area compared to when it was a retail store, while the surrounding residential uses will likely not pose a conflict, the document continued.

However, some of the nearby commercial properties may have a moderately negative effect on the proposed one-unit dwelling, especially the automotive service centre at the east end of the block, the report added.

During the meeting, city administration told city council — in response to a question from Coun. Heather Eby — that the property adjacent to this one had been rezoned to C2 several years ago. This is why the business in that dwelling is allowed to put advertisements in the windows.

Meanwhile, Coun. Crystal Froese pointed out that the dwelling is in a good location because it is across the street from the South Hill Grocery Store and other useful amenities.

Buying or Selling? Call us to guide you every step of the

The Moose Jaw Exhibition Company has convention and meeting facilities for up to 1,000 people, onsite catering, air-conditioned facilities, and various sized spaces for meetings, training sessions, graduations and weddings.

If you are interested in booking an event/show, please phone for availability, details, or to book a walk-through. We are open year round. We are home to approximately 35 equine and livestock events per year. Prior to the unloading of horses/livestock onto the grounds proof of insurance must be provided to the administration o ce.

· Horse Shows

· Livestock Events

· Stabling Daily or Long Term

· Heated Indoor Arena

· Outdoor Arenas

· Wedding & Banquet Facilities

· Meeting Facilities

· On-site Catering

· Hometown Fair

· Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre

· On-site Free Parking (for events)

· Spacious Grounds

We are a member-based organization which elect a board of Directors and have an active volunteer base which was established in 1884. 250 Thatcher Dr E Moose Jaw 306-692-2723

The Owl Centre is now closed for the season. Phone 306-692-8710 for the Owl Outreach Program.

Six financial principles to strengthen your plan

With the basics in place, financial planning can be both easier and more successful. Here are six financial principles that can serve as a firm foundation for the financial planning work you do with your Raymond James advisor.

1. Budget your way to wealth

Budgeting is simply a way to define what’s left over after you pay your expenses from your income. But, as basic as it is, most Canadians don’t have a household budget. Set yourself apart by taking the time to add up your monthly income, add up your monthly expenses and subtract your expenses from your income. Budgeting can help you identify cost-saving opportunities and plan to use any surplus to meet financial goals such as paying off debt, creating an emergency fund, building a plan to protect income and paying yourself first to accumulate long-term savings.

2. Understand how different investments are taxed

Taxes can take a huge bite out of investment returns without appropriate planning. Understanding the taxation of interest, capital gains, Canadian dividends, foreign non-business income and return of capital makes it possible to implement tax planning strategies. These may include sheltering investments associated with a higher tax liability inside registered plans, pursuing a buy-and-hold strategy that reduces turnover, and gifting publicly traded shares instead of cash to charity.

3. Be strategic with borrowing

Borrowing can be a powerful financial tool, providing leverage to achieve some of your goals today. However, the interest charged on loans can also be a drag on a financial plan, delaying the date at which people are able to meet their long-term objectives. No matter how much or how little debt you are carrying, it’s important to know what you owe and develop a plan to repay it as efficiently as possible. Then you’ll have the opportunity to redirect money that would have gone towards interest to much more satisfying goals.

4. Let your plan guide investing decisions

When you make investing decisions informed by your financial plan,

you can more easily sidestep some of the biases that commonly affect investment decision-making. Your comprehensive plan should include strategies related to financial management, investment planning, insurance and risk management, tax planning, retirement planning and estate planning. Letting it guide you when you’re considering buying or selling an investment can help you achieve your goals more efficiently

5. Invest to achieve specific goals

What if, instead of assessing investment performance against market benchmarks, you tied success to specific goals with a separate mini-portfolio designed to meet each one? A goals-based approach starts by identifying as precisely as possible what you’re saving for, then planning to make it happen based on the time horizon and risk tolerance associated with each goal. Finally, you can measure your progress towards the results that matter to you.

6. Maximize your legacy through estate planning

One consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic is that it has pushed many Canadians to start addressing their estate planning needs. Three essentials that should be in every estate plan are a will, powers of attorney for property and for healthcare, and a plan to minimize costs. Optional extras that can make a big difference include pre-paid funeral expenses, insurance to cover costs and leave a legacy and advanced strategies such as trusts.

“Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act. There is no other route to success.”

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

www.raymondjames.ca/GaleToewsPrivateWealthManagement

Chamber business impact survey reports growing trend in safety concerns

A recent business impact survey conducted by the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce highlights the growing concerns of local business owners about safety, social issues, and the effects of these issues on daily operations.

The survey took approximately two months to complete and included voluntary participation from among the Chamber’s roughly 600 registered members.

“There are so many things that are happening for the businesses here — not only the economy, but the social issues and the cost of… graffiti, theft, etc.,” said Rob Clarke, CEO of the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce. “We want to keep (these businesses) fully aware of what’s happening and what the police are doing.

“We gathered what (questions) we thought were essential and… we had (almost) 80 respondents out of the membership,” he said. “We had enough to do (the survey) and (obtain) some… concrete data.”

Survey details

The survey included 77 total respondents. The majority of these businesses are located within city limits (73 out of 77 or 94.81 per cent) and participants were primarily located in the northwest (67 per cent) and downtown core (30 per cent). Businesses within the downtown core included a two-block area east and west of Main Street North.

Many businesses in the survey have been operating for several years with 45.4 per cent reporting that they were in business for 30 years or more. Key sectors include agriculture (10.39 per cent), business and professional services (11.69 per cent), and health care (3.9 per cent).

The majority of these businesses employ between one and 10 workers (53 per cent) and 11 to 25 workers (18 per cent).

Concern for safety

From 2021 to 2024, 54 per cent of respondents reported an increased concern about the safety of their employees. Of these, 55 per cent of business owners reported hearing similar concerns from customers.

Based on the region, business owners reported the following safety concerns:

• Northwest: Safety concerns include increased incidents of theft and vandalism, especially during late hours.

• Northeast: Safety concerns include aggressive behaviour from individuals loitering around businesses and some employees report feeling threatened.

• Downtown: Safety concerns include inadequate lighting and the presence of unsheltered individuals.

• Southwest: Safety concerns include a rise in reported break-ins and a lack of visible security measures. Employees report feeling vulnerable.

• Southeast: Safety concerns include poor infrastructure including broken sidewalks and poorly maintained parking lots which pose hazards.

• Outside city limits: Employees reported the lack of regular police patrols and slow incident response times as leading safety concerns.

Between 2021 and 2024, respondents were asked to report specific impacts experienced by themselves or their employees. The most commonly reported issues include:

• Loitering and trespassing (82.46 per cent)

• Vandalism (56 per cent)

• Theft (56 per cent)

• Harassing actions and/or violence (56 per cent)

• Needles and other hazardous waste (49 per cent)

In an unsettling twist, nine businesses reported human defecation in the 2017 to 2020 period with one reporting this in “seven to nine” instances. From 2021 to 2024, 35.09 per cent of 20 respondents report discovering human excrement.

Financial losses

Survey respondents were asked to estimate their financial losses due to “criminality and social issues.” The range indicates that different businesses and business types have been affected unequally and incidents range from minor damages to substantial financial setbacks.

Out of 21 businesses that reported a specific financial loss in the 2017 to 2020 period, the average reported loss was $19,047, with a median value of $5,000 and $500 reported most frequently (three instances). The minimum reported loss was $150 and the maximum loss was $200,000.

Out of 34 businesses that reported a specific financial loss in the 2021 to 2024 period, the average reported loss was $30,545, with a median value of $3,250 and both $500 and $10,000 were reported most frequently (four instances each). The minimum reported loss was $100 and

the maximum loss was $300,000.

Survey results indicate that business owners now face a growing trend in safety and financial sustainability concerns.

Law enforcement feedback

Survey results indicate that a stronger level of engagement is needed between business owners, law enforcement, and the City of Moose Jaw. A majority of businesses (approximately 68 per cent within the past 12 months) report regularly interacting with the police (60 per cent on a monthly basis).

Satisfaction with the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) was generally positive. Of the total, 83 per cent indicated that officers were professional and 76 per cent said reports were followed up on effectively.

One anonymous comment summarized a few similar opinions: “I believe they (MJPS) are doing the best they can within a broken system.”

There were still calls for improvements related to response times and prosecution outcomes (60 per cent) with a focus on deterring repeat offenders, however.

Regarding the City of Moose Jaw, 23 per cent of respondents felt the city engaged effectively with businesses on these specific issues while 42 per cent expressed that more needs to be done. Business owners emphasized the need for the city to take a more active role in addressing the root causes of crime, increasing police patrols in vulnerable areas, and addressing homelessness and safety concerns in high-traffic areas.

A few anonymous comments asked for the city to “Work with organizations to approve and move shelter and homelessness programs forward more quickly,” “Engage with the provincial government to provide more resources,” and to have city employees clean up streets, garbage cans, and sidewalks more frequently.

Now that the results are in, Clarke said the Chamber is sharing the survey results with the MJPS, City of Moose Jaw, its business members, and any like-minded organizations that are interested in helping to find solutions.

The Chamber’s communications committee is planning to provide regular advice on key topics from the survey and also plans a follow-up survey sometime in 2025. For more information and to view the survey results online, visit MJChamber.com or call 306-692-6414.

Chamber business impact survey respondents offer safety solutions

When respondents from among roughly 600 registered business members were asked to provide insights for its business impact survey, the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce received valuable feedback from 77 local businesses and these results have now been published.

Among the survey’s results — which were compiled last week and took approximately two months to complete — were a few suggestions that could help provide a safer business environment in Moose Jaw.

Suggestions for improvement

A meaningful solution, the survey indicated, may require the formation of a task force dedicated to overseeing the implementation of each recommendation. Such a task force would be comprised of representatives from local businesses and must include law enforcement and relevant community organizations.

The task force would be required to develop an action plan with details outlining specific steps that need to be taken, timelines with measurable goals, and the responsibilities associated with each task. With this plan in mind, sources of funding would then be explored to enable specific actions.

The task force would be responsible for engaging regularly with stakeholders through regularly scheduled meetings that include business owners, employees, customers, and community members. At each meeting, individuals would provide feedback, address any existing concerns, and the process helps ensure the implemented measures are effective and well-received by the community.

As measures are implement over time, an ongoing monitoring and evaluation framework will be required to track progress, regularly assess project impacts, and to make any necessary adjustments based on feedback and real-world data. This evaluation framework will take place alongside one or several public awareness campaigns including workshops, information sessions, and promotional materials with the goal of maintaining a safe environment.

A few suggestions indicated through survey results include:

• Improved lighting for businesses premises and parking lots

• Increasing the frequency of police patrols, namely in areas with higher reported incidents

• Community engagement through community watch programs and regular police meetings

• Improved maintenance of infrastructure including parking lots and sidewalks to remove hazards

• Providing resources and supports for unsheltered individuals

When asked to report what business owners felt were among the top five priorities to address social issues, a few responses from 61 of the participants included:

• Depression and mental health issues (73.77 per cent)

• Substance abuse and addictions (73.77 per cent)

• Homelessness (62.3 per cent)

• Affordable housing (57.38 per cent)

• Meeting basic needs which are currently unmet (34.43 per cent)

Implemented changes

Several businesses have already implemented a range of security measures in response to heightened security concerns.

Some of the changes that were reported include:

• Improved locks (65 per cent)

• Improved lighting (51 per cent)

• Adding or improving fences, gates, and barriers (30 per cent)

• Hiring onsite (32 per cent) and offsite (eight per cent) security services

• Security training for staff (59 per cent)

• Participation in local initiatives including the MJ Trespass Prevention Program offered by the Moose Jaw Police Service (53 per cent)

• Adjusting business security protocols between 2021 and 2024 (75 per cent)

Costs associated with these security measures range from $500 to $300,000. Many respondents indicated that the financial burden of these improved measures poses yet another challenge faced by Moose Jaw’s business community.

Potential funding sources

To implement any increased safety measures, additional sources of funding will be required and survey participants offered a few valuable suggestions.

Government grants: Each level of government — municipal, provincial, and federal — often provides grants for community safety and infrastructure improvement projects. Many of these same grants can be used to pro-

vide “a significant source of funding” for enhanced safety measures and to maintain infrastructure as is necessary.

Business Improvement Districts (BIDs): BIDs comprise a set area where included businesses are asked to pay an additional tax or fee in order to fund improvements within its boundaries. Funds raised through this method can then be used to enhance security, improve lighting and visibility, and to maintain infrastructure.

Public-private partnerships: Through collaborating with private sector companies, additional funding and resources can be made available if the right businesses are willing and able to invest in safety measures that benefit their employees and customers.

Community fundraising: By engaging with the community through fundraising events and campaigns, funds can be raised for public safety initiatives. As well, this approach “helps raise awareness and foster(s) a sense of community involvement.”

Corporate sponsorships: Businesses and corporations in the community may be interested in sponsoring specific safety projects in exchange for recognition and positive publicity. Examples of these projects can include the provision of additional security personnel, surveillance cameras, and similar measures.

Non-profit organizations: Non-profits that are focused on community safety and development may be able to offer grants or other funding opportunities. By partnering with these organizations, businesses within a given area may be able to access additional resources and relevant supports.

For more information and to view the survey results online, visit MJChamber.com or call 306-692-6414.

Community partners re-sign agreement that aims to make Moose Jaw safer

Several community partners have resigned an agreement that aims to make Moose Jaw safer by identifying behaviours that may pose a risk for violence against students, school employees and residents.

Several partners gathered at Holy Trinity Catholic School Division’s board office on Oct. 24 to sign the updated document and recommit their organizations to supporting the Community Threat Assessment and Support Protocol (COMTAST).

Present were Prairie South School Division, Holy Trinity, the Moose Jaw Police Service, Saskatchewan Polytechnic and the Ministry of Social Services. Absent were Briercrest College and Seminary, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the Ministry of Policing and Corrections.

The partners first signed the document in February 2012, revised it in February 2014 and last updated it in February 2018. The coronavirus pandemic prevented them from updating the document until now.

COMTAST is a collaborative re sponse to assessing the violence potential of youths in schools and the community, while it supports collaborative interactions

behaviours and when they should be concerned if those baseline actions elevate, he continued.

The protocol and the training allow employees to understand the support the person needs to reduce the concerning baseline behaviours and keep others safe.

“If things are already at an elevated level, where we’re concerned about safety, it is 100-per-cent a 911 call,” Moser said, adding the protocol does not encourage school employees to restrain students physically but teaches them to be aware of behaviours and whether outside supports are required.

Police Chief Rick Bourassa said the agreement has been a valuable tool since it allows the police service to use its investigative abilities to support its partners. He noted that the initiative is “at its best, an early warning system.”

among the partners to reflect safe, caring and restorative approaches, the document explains. It also fosters timely sharing of information and promotes supportive and preventive plans.

The report should be updated every two years to include current practices

from the Canadian Centre for Threat Assessment and Trauma Response; the protocol is based on the centre’s Canadian Model of Violence Threat/Risk Assessment (V-TRA).

The partnership’s strength lies in the multidisciplinary composition of the Community Threat Assessment Team (CTAT), the document said.

The school and CTAT members strive to share and review relevant student information, while CTAT aims to share the details of a threatening situation or evidence appropriately and promptly, to collaborate effectively, and to use a broad range of expertise.

“The main partners in this are the schools, so it’s just consistent protocols for our schools to follow and our supports — mental health, social services (and) the police service — that we’re all working together to make sure everybody’s safe in our day-to-day business,” said Brad Moser, chairman of the protocol team.

The protocol is based on partner employees assessing levels of concern with someone — a student or a resident — and using the level 1 VTRA training they’ve received to understand baseline

“… but there are those times when it’s a sudden incident that happens. (That is) very, very rare that those happen, but that’s when we take a primary role in maintaining safety immediately,” he added.

“And then, going back into the process to deal with the resources that need to be put in place to prevent future things like that from happening.”

Ward Strueby, Holy Trinity’s education director, said re-signing the document is important since it helps the public understand how the organizations reduce risk while the partners also learn about what’s happening with each other.

All principals and vice-principals receive level 1 and 2 threat assessment training, while they receive updated training during regular administrator meetings and participate in mock scenarios, he continued. For example, they practice how to respond to a student bringing a weapon to school, how to reduce the risk and how to include the other partners.

“We just want to make sure that we take everything seriously, (that) we’re listening to what our kids are saying, and we provide the supports that are required,” Strueby added.

TIRES FOR SAFE WINTER MOTORING

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Warriors continue recent struggles with weekend losses to Kelowna, Kamloops

Rockets take 6-0 win over Moose Jaw on Friday, Kamloops battles to 6-4 win Saturday as winless streak hits seven Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors’ string of tough losses in the early part of the Westearn Hockey League season continued with their two games this past weekend.

The Warriors dropped a 6-0 decision to the Kelowna Rockets on Friday night before falling 6-4 to the Kamloops Blazers on Saturday as they opened their fivegame swing through the B.C. Division.

Moose Jaw fell to 3-9-2-0 with their seventh-straight defeat and remain in a tie for 10th in the Eastern Conference, while Kamloops picked up their fourth straight win and improved to 6-6-1-0.

Kamloops 6, Moose Jaw 0

The Blazers had little go wrong in their match-up in Kamloops, as they took a 1-0 lead out of the first period and led 4-0 through two before tacking on two more goals in the final period.

Tij Iginla led the Kamloops offence with three goals and four points, while linemate Andrew Cristall picked up a goal and four points. Jackson Gillespie and Brett Calhoon had their other markers.

Jackson Unger started and had 32 saves over 40 minutes before Dimitri Fortin took over in the third and stopped 12 shots the rest of the way.

Warriors forward Ethan Hughes sends a pass cross ice against Kamloops on Saturday night. Brian Johnson

Jake Pilon was far less busy in the Blazers net, facing only 17 shots, includ-

ing a mere three in the third period, as he went on to secure the shutout.

Kelowna 6, Moose Jaw 4

While the Warriors haven’t been finding success in their ongoing skid, most nights it hasn’t been for a lack of effort, and Saturday was an example.

Despite trailing 5-2 heading into the second period, the Warriors would get goals from Owen Berge and Lynden Lakovic in the final frame -- the latter scoring with 46 seconds left with the goaltender pulled -- but an empty netter by Emmitt Finnie would put the game away.

Both Lakovic and Brayden Yager had a goal and three points on the night, while Nolan Paquette scored the first of his WHL career in the opening frame.

John Szabo had a hat trick for Kamloops, Nathan Behm had a goal and four points and Max Sullivan scored their other marker.

Unger played 43:19 of the game and stopped 27 shots, Josh Banini played 15:46 and stopped three shots before leaving the game with an injury. Dylan Ernst had 27 saves for the Blazers.

The Warriors were back in action Tuesday in Prince George and continue their road trip in Victoria on Friday, Nov. 1.

Nine players from Saskatchewan-based teams, six players from province named in Prelminary Watch List for 2025 NHL Draft Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

If the first set of Central Scouting rankings for the 2025 NHL Draft are any indication, there will be all sorts of players with Saskatchewan ties hearing their names called this summer.

A total of 15 players from Western Hockey League teams in Saskatchewan and seven who hail from the province were among 55 players from the league listed in NHL Central Scouting’s Preliminary Players to Watch List for the Draft this June.

Two players from the province were named ‘A’ rated prospects, indicating they’ll likely be selected in the first round.

Saskatoon’s Roger McQueen, who led the league in scoring with the Brandon Wheat Kings before going down with an upper-body injury, joined Macklin’s Cole Reschny of the Victoria Royals in earning the top rank.

McQueen had eight goals and 11

stages of the season.

Reschny, who is ranked anywhere from 13th to 27th among the various league onlookers, has three goals and 15 points in 10 games to sit tied for ninth in league scoring.

Joining the duo as ‘A’ rated prospects is Lynden Lakovic of the Moose Jaw Warriors. The West Kelowna, B.C. product is off to a great start with six goals and 16 points in 12 games to sit tied for sixth in WHL scoring. He’s projected to go anywhere from ninth to 39th overall.

Lakovic and Reschny will both be in action during the CHL USA Prospects Challenge series, which will see the top first-year NHL Draft-eligible prospects from the CHL faceoff against USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program Under-18 Team. McQueen was also selected to play in the game but will miss due to his long-term injury.

Warriors forward Lynden Lakovic celebrates after his overtime winner against Brandon during the 2024 WHL Playoffs.

or third round selection.

nipeg both received the second-highest rank.

Regina Pats defenceman Kolten Bridgman, who also hails from Regina, joins Victoria Royals goaltender and Prince Albert product goaltender Jayden Kraus as ‘C’ rated prospects, meaning a fourth or fifth-round selection.

Two players from the province received W ratings, with Saskatoon forward Kash Andreson (Lethbridge Hurricanes) and Wilcox right winger Joby Baumuller (Brandon Wheat Kings) expected to go in the sixth or seventh round.

Two defencemen with Sask ties received ‘B’ ratings, which means a second

Whitewood’s Reese Hamilton of the Calgary Hitmen and Swift Current Broncos rearguard Peyton Kettles from Win-

Six players from Saskatchewan teams were rated W, including Winnipeg’s Ethan Bibeau (Prince Albert), North Vancouver’s Ty Coupland (Swift Current), Calgary’s William James (Saskatoon), Dusseldorf, Ger.’s David Lewandowski (Saskatoon), Sturgeon County, Alta.’s Connor Schmidt (Moose Jaw) and Brandon’s Cole Temple (Regina) all projected as late-round picks.

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS: Central Cyclones defeat Balgonie Greenall Griffins to

claim SRFL title

Cyclones battle to 32-7 victory at Leibel Field to win first league championship since 2007; advance to provincial semifinal in Saskatoon next weekend

The Central Cyclones have won the South Rural Football League championship.

The Cyclones put together one of their most complete performances of the season to take a 32-7 victory over the Balgonie Greenall Griffins at Leibel Field in Regina on Saturday afternoon.

The victory gives Central their first

Randall Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

SRFL title since 2007 and sees the local squad now advance to face Saskatoon 5A champion Saskatoon Bishop Mahoney next Saturday in Saskatoon.

“It was a massive team win, everyone was playing for everybody,” said Central head coach Colin Belsher. “I’d be lying if I said we didn’t have better teams in the past, but this team has a different feel to it. They’re playing for each other and know that everyone has to contribute to find success and they’ve bought into that lunch-

pail-type attitude where everyone has to work to be successful… When that stuff happens, the results happen that you’re looking for.”

Central scored all their points through the air as Grade 9 quarterback Traeten Potvin had another stellar game behind centre. Standout receiver Keaton Belsher was his target for the first two majors in the first half, with Sidney Nancarrow and Donovan Harkness adding receiving touchdowns in the second half. Ciaran

McCulloch tacked on a field goal late in the first half as Central took a 17-7 lead into the break.

Now the attention turns to Saskatoon Bishop Mahoney, with the teams meeting in the SHSAA provincial semifinal on Saturday afternoon in Saskatoon. A win there will see Central host the provincial final against either Prince Albert Carlton or Regina Johnson on Saturday Nov. 12 at Gutheridge Field.

“That would be huge,” Belsher said. “We’ll exchange film with Bishop Mahoney and go over some things and look for weaknesses and they’ll do the same, and hopefully we can come away with the win next weekend.”

Bishop Mahoney advanced to the semifinal with a 42-6 win in the Saskatoon 5A city final, while Carlton downed Martensville 40-22 in the North Saskatchewan League title game and Johnson took a 44-3 win over Thom in the Regina 5A city final.

WHL Cup: Saskatchewan claims bronze in offensive battle with B.C.

Teams combine for 13 goals as Team Sask claims third place with 8-5 victory in Red Deer

Saskatchewan is coming home with bronze from the Western Hockey League Cup.

Saskatoon’s Kayden Stroeder (Edmonton Oil Kings) had a hat trick to lead Team Sask to an 8-5 victory over B.C. in the third-place game in Red Deer on Sunday afternoon.

The annual tournament features the top 2009-born (15-year-old) players in western Canada, with most either drafted or listed by WHL clubs. Each province sends an all-star team, with the event acting as the first step in the Hockey Canada Program of Excellence.

Saskatchewan couldn’t have asked for a better start, as Stroeder and Saskatoon’s Cash Arcand-Vandale (Red Deer Rebels) scored the only goals of the first period to give their team a 2-0 lead out of the opening frame.

B.C. had a reply in the second, though, as Ryan Sadovia (Edmonton Oil Kings) got them on the board 2:09 into the period. Stroeder scored his second of the game just over a minute later to make it 3-1 before B.C. rallied to tie things up..

Friday evening saw the Moose Jaw Bulldogs were a machine perfectly firing on all cylinders.

No matter what they did to get going the Bulldogs opponent the defending champions Moose Jaw Lions tried to do it.

In the end - led by three second half defensive touchdowns by Andrew Lazurko - the Bulldogs defeated the Lions 66 to 20 to claim the U12 championship trophy in the Kinsmen Moose Jaw Minor Football League.

The Lions would score in the first quarter to initially take the early lead but by the halftime break the score was tied at 14 - 14.

But in the second half the Bulldogs would take over.

“(Andrew) Lazurko getting three picks for touchdowns is really huge for us. He is just phenomenal player. He definitely set the pace for our whole team tonight,”

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Cohen Williams (Moose Jaw Warriors) scored at 6:15 and Eddy Spytz (Everett Silvertips) picked up B.C.’s third goal 2:39 later to make it 3-3.

Team Sask struck right back, with Yorkton’s Trae Peterson (Tri-City Americans) scoring 1:04 after Spytz’s goal and Martensville’s Dade Wotherspoon

(Prince George Cougars) making a twogoal game 53 seconds after that marker.

Carter Bylycia (Tri-City Americans) briefly got B.C. back to within one with 12:51 gone in the period, but Saskatoon’s Jake Evans (Lethbridge Hurricanes) scored what would stand as the game-winner 1:29 later and Stroed-

Bulldogs Capture U12 Crown

Story and photos by Robert Thomas

Bulldogs head coach Jodi Throssell said.

“That hasn’t happened all season. But he (Andrew Lazurko) came to play today. I think the whole team came to play and it just showed,” he said.

“Honestly I thought the game was going to be a lot closer than it was. At half time it was close. It was tied at halftime. For us to pull ahead the way we did it was a little bit unexpected. But we knew our team had it in them to do it. They came. They showed up today. That’s exactly what they did.”

Looking back at the season - even without the championship win - Throssell typified it as a fun season.

“We were nervous coming into this game obviously. This victory was a little bit unexpected for going the way it was but our kids didn’t lay off the gas pedal and they kept grinding. I’m so proud of them.”

“This one the Bulldogs and went out

and they earned it tonight. They fought really hard. They have some amazing players on defence and they made it very hard for us to move the ball,” Lions head coach Kellyn Bollinger said. The struggle was intense Bollinger said.

er finished off his hat trick with 2:26 to play in the frame.

Peterson then made it an 8-4 game 2:08 into the third, and Cohen Handby (Regina Pats) replied for B.C. late in the game with the final goal of the contest. Wotherspoon finished with a goal and four points, while Nipawin’s Blake Chorney (Vancouver Giants) had four assists. Estevan’s Boston Tait (Wenatchee Wild) and Lucky Lake’s Jake Hargrave (Kelowna Rockets) each had two assists.

Gull Lake’s Cade Mitchell (Moose Jaw Warriors) got the start in goal for Saskatchewan and turned aside 39 shots for the win; Oscar Hicik (Portland Winterhawks) stopped 18 shots in 33:20 of work while Cash Christie (Medicine Hat Tigers) had eight stops the rest of the way.

Saskatchewan reached the bronze medal game after going 2-1 in the round robin, defeating Alberta 5-2, falling to B.C 6-3 and downing Manitoba 5-0. They then dropped a 9-5 decision to Alberta in the semifinal.

“We came to a point where we were struggling to get the ball moving and credit to them they moved the ball great on both sides of the ball. They played amazingly both defensively and offensively,” Bollinger said.

The Lions had no response for the Bulldogs quarterback Jax Throssell.

“I think the scoreboard showed that.” Bollinger said he was happy with how the season turned out.

“I’m very proud of the Lions. I’m very proud they fought hard all season. All night even when things went bad they were still fighting.”

The team has improved immensely from the first practice to the final game.

“This age it’s always amazing to see the growth.”

https://www.mjindependent.com/

Saskatchewan gathers for a team photo after winning bronze at the WHL Cup on Sunday in Red Deer.
The Central Cyclones gather for a team photo after winning the South Rural Football League championship on Saturday afternoon in Regina. Merrill Dyck
The Central Cyclones celebrate with the SRFL championship trophy on Saturday afternoon at Leibel Field in Regina. Merrill Dyck
THE BULLDOGS HOIST THE U12 CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY

PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONS AGAIN: Moose Jaw Central defeats Yorkton to claim 4A boys soccer title

Cyclones take 3-1 victory over storied rivals in gold medal game to win third provincial title in last four years

The Central Cyclones are back at the top of the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association 4A boys soccer mountain.

And even though it was once again by the closest of margins, the perennial provincial championship contenders were able to find a way to get the job done.

The Cyclones took a 3-2 win on penalty kicks over Chief John Keenatch in the semifinal before downing Yorkton Sacred Heart 3-1 in the gold medal game to claim their third provincial gold medal in the last four seasons in Yorkton.

The provincial tournament started with a semifinal game that was as close as could be, with the teams tied after regulation. Central would outscore Keenatch 3-2 in the penalty shootout, though, finding an all-important win in a situation that was a bit of an Achilles’ heel last season.

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

“That was pretty nervewracking,” said Cyclones head coach Holly McCorriston. “We practiced shootouts a lot this season because last year we went to shootouts and didn’t do well, so that worked out as planned.”

Then came the title game against an extremely familiar foe in Sacred Heart. The teams had played in two championship games over the previous two weeks, with Central winning the city championship 3-2 and Yorkton taking a 2-1 win in the regional final.

“The players all know each other, they play year-round in different leagues and some of them even play on the same teams,” McCorriston said. “There are often similar habits and styles so coming up with ideas

when you see that team and having to adjust as you go, it’s important. I’m sure that’s what did it, if we hadn’t changed what we were doing then we could have been in the other boat.”

Hunter Therrien scored for Central in the first half and the game was tied 1-1 at the break. Jean-Francois Mendes gave the Cyclones the lead for good in the second half and Patrick Pryadko added an insurance marker on a penalty kick late to finish things off.

The halftime adjustment saw Central

Peacock Tornadoes score late touchdown to defeat Swift Current in SRFL Tier II final

Moose Jaw squad takes 14-7 victory over Colts at Gutheridge Field in low-scoring battle Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

And while the Peacock Tornadoes might not have been in the last game they hoped to be playing in, they’ll take the victory in the South Rural Football League Tier II final all the same.

The Tornadoes scored the only points in the fourth quarter and went on to a 14-7 victory over the Swift Current Colts in the contest Saturday afternoon at Gutheridge Field.

As the score would indicate, it was a close battle from start to finish.

Peacock took the lead out of the first half, with Kam Lopston hauling in a 14yard pass from Owen Varjassy for a Peacock touchdown in the first quarter.

The 7-0 lead stood until Kyle Griffin hit the end zone for Swift Current in

It was the powerhouse against the underdog with powerhouse winning as the Moose Jaw Raiders defeated the Weyburn Falcons 35 - 6 to claim the U12 championship title in the Kinsmen Moose Jaw Minor Football League on Friday evening.

The evening turned into a humid and chilly affair weather wise but the Raiders remained red hot and focused.

Playing in front of by far the largest crowd of the season, the Raiders managed to first contain the Falcons and then take control of the game.

“It was very good. We came out and we knew what we were suppose to do and we knew if we would do that we would win the game,” said Moose Jaw Raiders head coach Zac Klyne.

Despite the Raiders dominating the second half Klyne said the Falcons were no easy pushover.

the third, setting up a dramatic final 12 minutes.

Kingston Potosme-Usher would come up with the biggest play of the game in the final frame, hauling in a pass from Varjassy and going the distance for a 54-yard touchdown and the winning points.

Potosme-Usher ended up with eight catches for 170 yards -- including 116 yards in the first half. Nate Measner also had a solid game receiving with four catches for 94 yards.

Varjassy ended up 14-for-32 passing for 283 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions.

Rayan Yuhas-Gebhardt led the Tornadoes ground game with 13 carries for 74 yards.

All told, Peacock had 395 yards of offence on the day.

Nate Siemans led Swift Current with three catches for 43 yards, while Jake Woods had eight carries for 31 yards on the ground.

Colts quarterback Owen Sletten was

Raiders Storm Past Falcons

“Yeah they put up a fight today. The first half was close. We weren’t sure what happened. They came out tough and we didn’t know what to do at first,” he said.

Klyne gave a shout out to Ryder Seiferling.

“Give him the ball and Ryder Seiferling is going to make plays for us.”

move more to their strengths in the face of what Sacred Heart was showing them.

With another provincial championship in Central’s trophy case, the Cyclones now turn their attention to next season. While there’s the potential they could move up to 5A if the school population grows enough, the team is keeping a ‘if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it’ plan at this point.

“Having that training squad helps with the year-to-year turnover because we have bigger bench coming up,” McCorriston said. “So it’s not ‘all the Grade 12s are gone, what are we going to do’ each year, we already know who our starting line will basically be next year, because they’ve trained all year. I think that has something to do with (the continued success), we’re consciously training and building our team from year-to-year and that can make a big difference.”

Central has now advanced to provincials in six straight seasons, not including the COVID-cancelled 2020 campaign. They won the provincial title in 2022 and 2021.

Another standout for the Raiders was Lucas Lind.

“He (Lind) has done a lot for us this year. Either on the offence or defence. He’s going to be a name to watch the rest of his final year and whatever he does after that,” Klyne said.

The team was ecstatic with the championship win.

The Falcons were in fifth place at the end of the regular season with a 2 - 4 record.

They defeated 1st place Estevan Oilers 20 - 7 to advance to the championship game.

The Final Score was Raiders 35 and Falcons 6.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2024/10/26/raiders-storm-past-falcons

8-for-17 passing for 91 yards. Swift Current finished with 103 yards offence total.
Kingston Potosme-Usher scored a fourth-quarter touchdown to give the Peacock Tornadoes the win over Swift Current in the SRFL Tier II final on Saturday afternoon.
The Central Cyclones are the 2024 SHSAA 4A boys provincial soccer champions.
THE MOOSE JAW RAIDERS CAPTAINS RAISE THE U14 CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY
Story and Photos by Robert Thomas
MOOSE JAW RAIDERS EVAN AUDETTE CARRIES THE BALL RIGHT UP THE GUT

Logjam at top of Original 16 Cash League standings as four teams sit with three wins

League leaders all victorious on fourth draw of round robin at Moose Jaw Curling Centre

With four draws in the books in the Original 16 Cash League, it’s shaping up to be a very interesting season at the top of the standings.

Four teams are currently tied for first place with three wins apiece, with each of the league leaders finding wins on Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

Defending champion KMS Construction (Ben Gamble, 3-0) was one of those, taking a 9-5 win over Wade Gray (2-1). Gamble did almost all his damage in the fourth end, when with the game tied at a pair apiece he put up a four-ender to take a 6-2 lead. A steal the next end made it a five-point game, and after Gray picked

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

up three in the sixth, Gamble scored two more in the seventh to bring things to an early end.

BTN Chartered Accountants (Penny Barker, 3-1) kept pace thanks to a 7-3 win over Young and Young Automotive (Stan Barnsley, 0-4). Barker scored a pair in the third end to take a 3-1 lead, and after Barnsley picked up single points the next two frames to tie things up, added three in the sixth for a 6-3 edge. Barker then added a steal in the seventh for the four-point win.

A big end was the difference for Leeville Construction (Dustin Woloschuk, 3-1) as they went on to an 8-3 win over RK Sunview Farms (Dayne Heisler, 0-4).

Woloschuk had built a 3-1 lead through

four ends when he stole four in the fifth to take control of the game. Heisler picked up a pair in the sixth to get back within four, but another Woloschuk point in the seventh would end the game early.

The closest game of the night was between EMJ Marketing (Joe Gunnis,

1-3) and M&T Feedlot (Ryan Wenarchuk, 1-2). Wenarchuk scored a pair in the first and added single points in the second and fourth ends, with Gunnis replying with a pair in the third to trail 4-2. The teams exchanged single points the next two frames before Gunnis took the lead with three in the seventh. Wenarchuk tied the game in the eighth, and Gunnis would put the hammer to good use in the extra end for a 7-6 win and his first victory of the season.

Fountain Tire (Barry Silk, 3-0) had the bye.

Original 16 Cash League action continues every Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.

Legion kicks off poppy campaign with presentation to the mayor

Mayor Clive Tolley was somewhat emotional receiving the first poppy of this year’s poppy campaign as he reflected on the fact that several relatives served in — and survived — both world wars.

Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59 held a small ceremony on Oct. 25 to kick off the poppy initiative, with campaign chairwoman Sue Knox pinning the red flower on the left lapel of Tolley’s three-piece suit.

This act signifies that everyone may now start wearing the remembrance-focused poppy that originated on the Belgian battlefields of the First World War and was inspired by Lt.-Col. John McCrae’s epic poem, “In Flanders Fields.”

“It’s a privilege and an honour to be asked by the Legion to receive the poppy … . Each year, it has significance for me (because) my dad was a Second World War veteran and a 50-year member of the Legion,” Tolley said.

“So when I get around the Legion, I get around the veterans, and when the poppy campaign starts, I think of (my dad and) I get a little emotional,” he continued, his voice wavering.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

the ultimate sacrifice and the ones who came home,” he added. “And it’s just an opportunity for us as Canadians to show our appreciation and wear our poppy proudly from now until Nov. 11.”

Issuing the campaign’s first poppy signals to the community that the remembrance period has begun and that Legion members will begin canvassing the city offering poppies in exchange for donations, said Knox.

Presenting the poppy to the mayor shows that the organization is serious about the initiative and that it is of great importance to veterans that local leadership receives it first, especially since the Governor General and lieutenant-governor have already received theirs, she continued.

ion command, Branch No. 59 wants to do a better job of informing the community of how it uses the poppy campaign funds, she noted. While it won’t divulge which veterans receive support, it wants to discuss the programs it’s promoting.

“They’re public funds, so the public certainly has a right to know where that money is going to … ,” Knox added. “I’m trying to bring that back and get that community camaraderie again and keeping it focal to the public.”

The Legion will be at the Moose Jaw Warriors’ game on Friday, Nov. 8, handing out poppies to fans and collecting donations.

Tolley’s grandfathers served in the First World War, while his father and uncles served in the Second. While all came home, one grandfather suffered from poor health after being gassed in the trenches and died young from lung cancer.

“So it’s a time for families to think about the people who served and gave

“It’s not something that we did a lot in the past. I think the one we did last year was probably the first in a number of years … ,” Knox said. “It’s something a lot of the other cities do as well, so I wanted to bring that to Moose Jaw as well and get that camaraderie and community going … .”

Following in the footsteps of Domin-

Meanwhile, it will need volunteer help on Sunday, Nov. 10, from 10 p.m. to midnight to cover the rink with sheets in preparation for the Remembrance Day ceremony the next day. It will also require volunteers to tear down the rink after the ceremony, with that work beginning around noon.

Anyone interested in helping can contact ceremony chairwoman Christine Simpson at 306-681-3835.

Cadets help distribute poppies in support of Canada’s military veterans

After the traditional first poppy was given to Moose Jaw’s mayor, Clive Tolley, on Friday, Oct. 25, the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59 is now making poppies available to the general public through its yearly Poppy Campaign.

To help in this year’s campaign, members of all three cadet elements — including volunteers with the 99 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Assiniboine and the 33 Moose Jaw Navy League — have returned and were posted at venues across Moose Jaw including the South Hill Fine Foods on Oct. 26.

“I came out because I wanted to support my great uncle because he was a veteran of war,” said Evaley Gall, a leading cadet with the 33 Moose Jaw Navy League. Gall was stationed at the entrance to South Hill Fine Foods along with four other cadets for the first day of the poppy campaign.

The poppy campaign runs from the last Friday in October until Remembrance Day. Each year, tens of millions of Canadians wear a poppy in a visual pledge to honour Canada’s military veterans and to remember those who made sacrifices serving the country.

Poppies are not offered for sale, but

vere injuries and the Poppy Fund can help them have a better life because of their injuries. (Knowing this) makes me feel better.

“We also have a huge homelessness issue with veterans and there’s a lot of traumatic brain injury (cases) and so (the campaign) is significant. (The issues our veterans face is) more than what people realize.”

are free to take with a voluntary donation of each individual’s own choosing. All proceeds are added to the Legion’s Poppy Fund.

The Poppy Trust Funds maintained by the Legion are locally run campaigns and all proceeds remain in the community where they were raised. The fund may be used for housing accommodations, food, prescription medication, medical needs, transportation costs, or other financial needs faced by Canada’s veterans.

Cynthia Starchuk is a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and now volun-

teers her time to support the cadet corps.

“I served in the Canadian Air Force here in Moose Jaw... and I volunteer my time with the cadet corps. We’ve got not only the Navy League Cadet Corps, but our Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, and there’s the Army Cadets and Air Cadets… (who are) part of the kickoff to the Poppy Campaign.

“I am not what people think of a veteran, because I’m not a World War II veteran,” she said. “But we have friends, and lost friends, who have been in Afghanistan or who are suffering from se-

Stefan Norman was one of the Navy League cadets attending the poppy campaign at Fine Foods. Norman said he originally signed up for the campaign because his dad told him to do something useful over the weekend and the experience succeeded — it had him reflecting on his family’s military experience. “Most of my family served during World War II,” he said.

To get your poppy in honour of Canada’s military veterans, stop by the Royal Canadian Legion or look for poppy sale boxes at participating local businesses.

For more information on the annual Poppy Campaign, visit Legion.ca/Remembrance/The-Poppy-Campaign. The Poppy Campaign will continue until Nov. 11.

Legion president Robert (Bob) Travale (left) watches as Mayor Clive Tolley receives the first poppy of the campaign from chairwoman Sue Knox. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Volunteers with the 99 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Assiniboine and the 33 Moose Jaw Navy League helped kickstart this year’s Poppy Campaign at South Hill Fine Foods on Oct. 26.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Volunteers with the 99 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps Assiniboine and the 33 Moose Jaw Navy League were also stationed at the South Hill Shopper’s Drug Mart on Oct. 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Curling file

Letters to the EDITOR for MJ Express

LETTER TO THE EDITOR RE: SQUARE ONE AND THE GOOD NEIGHBOURS GROUP

Square One and The Good Neighbors Group can represent a path forward for Moose Jaw where voices are heard, and leadership is focused on the practical needs of the community without being compromised by differences. Let us focus on what really matters and build a stronger, united community.

I have attended meetings and volunteered with both groups. I know that each group wants what is best for Moose Jaw, but they have different approaches. I will work with both groups to find a solution.

City Council needs to support these groups’ efforts and extend leadership for an Advisory Council where the community can meet in a town hall setting and find workable practical solutions that meets the needs of our unhoused and addresses the loitering, panhandling and downtown criminal behaviors. These undesirable behaviors cannot be entirely attributed to the homeless population. I believe that there is some overlap, but blaming one group is dividing our city.

My understanding of both groups is that Souls Harbour and Square One have their first purpose in supplying the immediate needs of our homeless population. Secondly, it is to advocate and expand that assistance to longer term housing and more consistent support. There has been a lot of behind-the-scenes work done by many in our community. Moose Jaw can be proud of the many volunteers and organizations that have fed and provided comfort during this trying time.

The Good Neighbors Group’s primary purpose is to advocate on behalf of the citizens for greater access to city hall, for the city to address through proper and legal means, the growing criminal activity in the downtown core as well as loitering and sleeping in the city’s shared spaces. The negative effects of litter, harassment, and graffiti have cost businesses lost revenues and have threatened people’s safety. The Good Neighbors Group also wants longer term housing and support/treatment options for those in need, a 5 Stream Process. They just don’t want it to start and end with a sandwich and a bed.

Both groups want to address homelessness. Both groups want a safe and prosperous downtown, and both groups have passion and great resolve in finding solu-

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.

• All letters to the editor submitted to the Moose Jaw Express newspaper should not exceed 900 words. In this case, we reserve the right to edit them accordingly.

• Please do not write letters of personal attack or are condescending.

• A full name and contact information will need to be included with

tions.

Some in our community blame The Good Neighbors for shutting down Soul’s Harbour’s location on Manitoba St. and halting the construction of a new facility.

The Manitoba St. location had many issues. The condition and limitations of the building were not conducive to growing the program or even maintaining the current one. It did not have a long lifespan. The new facility location had many challenges as well. The permits, environmental land studies, lack of construction companies able to provide services and the proximity to the Downtown Tourism businesses.

I personally had issue with the 10 bed, male only facility as it was to cost over 4 million dollars; $400,000 a bed. I have questions about the feasibility of spending this amount of money on so few people and maintaining the operation of the facility with only 10 beds to receive funding for. There is a question about Soul’s Harbour having the financial resources in place to proceed. Did they have the funding to move forward?

I was disappointed that the facility did not extend its services to women. Unhoused women face incredible threats and vulnerability. The shelter was to be located in a city hot zone, where we entertain our tourists. This is an area that Moose Jaw has worked hard at restoring and providing an enjoyable experience for locals and tourists. Tourism dollars greatly impact our job market with many spin off benefits.

I believe that the shelter should be in a neighborhood that is safe and secure, not in a downtown business hub. Areas with high crime rates can increase stress for shelter residents, who are often already vulnerable. Safety should be a priority both inside the shelter and in the surrounding neighborhood.

Soul’s Harbour bought land downtown with the hope and desire to serve the homeless and food-insecure people of Moose Jaw. They fundraised and attempted to build a supportive facility. They had several roadblocks from different unlinked issues and decided to leave.

Instead of blaming a Citizen-led watchdog group that wants to hold the city accountable for how it serves its people, you can look at the different factors that led up to the decision for Soul’s Harbour to leave. It is easy

Town ‘N’ Country Mall welcomes trick-ortreaters with Halloween-themed events

Young ghouls and goblins are invited to the Town ‘N’ Country Mall to celebrate Halloween this year in a safe, warm, indoor space that will be set up to accommodate a large influx of trick-or-treaters.

The mall’s Spooktacular Trick-or-Treat event will take place with mini games and activities from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and a mall-wide trick-or-treat excursion will then run from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31.

“There’s events for all ages, and we’re trying to start a little bit earlier in the day for the younger ones,” announced Jennilee Novak, the mall’s assistant property manager.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Town ‘N’ Country Mall has been a popular hangout spot with a heyday during the ‘80s and ‘90s. It continues to serve as Moose Jaw’s primary mall despite a recent trend toward plaza-type developments including the adjacent Civic Centre Plaza.

On Jan. 12, the mall’s ownership was transferred to the Pioneer Thinking Capital Corporation. The new owners have invested time and energy into revitalizing the venue with plans to return the mall to the space it once used to be and initiatives such as this are part of that campaign.

Novak said the mall’s participating retailers — of which 25 out of 31 stores have indicated that they will be trick-or-treating — are going to be handing out Halloween candy and each participant will clearly denote their inclusion with balloons outside their storefront.

“We’ve always had a really good number of participants,” Novak said. “Of course, the ministry (of social

each submission for verification.

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to blame a group, but I think if there is any blame it should be directed at the city for its lack of leadership and clear processes, and the drastic change in the facility plans.

The new facility was approved in 2020 with wrap around services and 22 units. It changed, dramatically.

The lack of city leadership, support, or mediation between all of these helping agencies, the process in which the city approves zoning and building permits, and the lack of transparency throughout the process, could have been mitigated with a city led Advisory Committee. This project should have had more community input, and an Advisory Committee could have addressed these issues.

The city is looking to amend a bylaw. Supportive housing zoning is being proposed to have 150-meter distance between schools and shelters. The current shelter is within that distance from a Prairie South School. William Milne Place/ Square One, is also within this proposed boundary. We need to address this.

Many issues remain that need to be mitigated to ensure the care and safety of our people. Bylaws need to be written that can be enforced fairly and with compassion. We need a 24 hour shelter that does not displace its clients during the day to fend for themselves without adequate washroom facilities or cover. We need a plan to assist people in regaining independence and to receive appropriate care. We cannot say that this is a mental health, addiction, policing and provincial government issue alone. This is in Moose Jaw and Moose Jaw can address this successfully.

We do not have to be aligned with any one group to want what is best for the people of Moose Jaw. We each have our own way of sharing our message. We can work together on common goals. Moose Jaw can be a leader in sustaining a healthy downtown core and serving the needs of our hungry and homeless population. Its time to come together. If you want to see improved collaboration and communication within our citizenry, vote for change on November 13th.

Regards, Carla Delaurier City Council Candidate

services) may not be participating because they have security doors… but pretty much everyone will be participating.”

In past years, Novak said the mall has seen upwards of 1,000 kids attending the trick-or-treat event.

The day will include a lineup of fun Halloween activities hosted by the Moose Jaw Girl Guides and the Monkey Bars Indoor Playcentre. To continue his traditional, seasonally themed photoshoot, Rob Hoskins, owner of Rob Hoskins Photography and the Comic Book Guy Pop Culture Shop will be doing free family Halloween pictures with a new Halloween backdrop that he’s added for the occasion.

As well, the mall’s Shock House — which has returned after a several-year absence — is now open and will continue to run on Oct. 24, 25, 26, 27, 30, and for one last day on Oct. 31. Admission for the haunted house feature is $25 per person or $35 for a speed pass and is payable in cash at the door.

The mall’s other Halloween activities remain free to attend including the trick-or-treat event.

“We’re excited for another great turnout this year,” Novak concluded, wishing everyone a safe and happy Halloween.

For more information about upcoming activities at the mall, visit TownNCountryMJ.com or ‘Town N Country Mall’ on Facebook. If you have any questions, the mall’s administration can be reached at 306-693-1711.

The Town ‘N’ Country Mall is located at 1235 Main Street North.

Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

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

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

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

AFTERWARD, AMPLE, BEAUTIFUL, BOTANY, BRAID, BUNCH CHASM, CRATER, FARE, GIDDY, GRIPE, HONEST, HOUSE INFECTION, JUMPS, LAUGHTER, LICE, MASCOT, MERIT, MODEL, MORAL, NERVE, NIGHT, PARAGON, PLUCK, RINSE, RUFFIAN, SILLY, SOUND, SWELL, THIEF, TRACE, WORTH, YEARN

ACROSS 1. Tall woody plant 5. Pace 10. Fella 14. Lion sound 15. Hawaiian greeting 16. Ready 17. Explorer 19. Apart from this 20. Observe

Aquatic mammal

Runs in neutral

Belligerent

Haven

East southeast

Extracting metals by heating

Nonchalantly unconcerned

Tally

D

Absorbed

Keyboard instrument

Welt

Night before

Category

Beats

Guarantee

Expected

45. Flavor 46. Convention opener 50. Veracity 52. Lift

54. Fourteen in Roman numerals

55. Mongol dwelling 56. Coldest part of the year 58. Rind 59. Go inside

Gulf port

Being

Cast out

Flippant DOWN

Garbage

Cowboy sport 3. Roof overhangs 4. Before, in poetry

Blab

Wash out with a solvent

Extra

An ectohormone

Paddle

Bank line

Braes

Abbey area

13. P P P

18. Sound of any kind 22. Small island 24. Exam

26. Pertaining to flight

28. Alarming 29. Uncluttered

30. Colloids

31. Beer

32. Molten rock

33. Openings

34. Melding of powdery metals

37. Confined

38. Imagine (archaic)

40. Deep cut

41. Purchaser

43. Faze

44. Wasteland

46. Flying toys

47. Any compound of oxygen

48. Countdown clock

49. Occurrence

50. Sort

51. Regrets

53. Anagram of “Neat”

56. Tiny 57. Faucet

Moose Jaw Truck Shop

205 WANTED

Seeking Born Again Christian Business partner with potential ownership in Second Hand and Flea- Market business. Male, Female or Family must be interested in Salvation, Healing and Deliverance Outreach Ministry . Serious enquiries only please. 306-684-1084, 5 pm- 8pm ONLY (because of scam calls)

WANTED - Will pay cash for your Gold and Silver coins. Call 306-5277786.

210 SERVICES

Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a

Rachel Mullens and a core team of partners have been working diligently at forming a new Moose Jaw based Non-Profit, Hope Ministries, to address the city’s emerging food insecurity crisis. With winter close at hand, and the numbers of unhoused and food insecure individuals on the rise, action is urgently needed to create permanent solutions. With the withdrawal of Soul’s Harbour’s extensive meal services from the community during the summer, Square One Community formed a temporary committee to fill the gap while permanent solutions could be developed. While this collaborative coalition of churches and organizations has managed to maintain continuous meal offerings since the closure, a single, permanent meal program has always been the ultimate objective. A single program tackling meal offerings will allow meal services and resources to be streamlined into one lo-

load. 306-630-2268

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. Cleaner with 20 years experience, professional and bondable, please call Rebecca at 306-9900387

Junk to the dump in and around Moose Jaw, $60 and up. Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver any appliances and where in and around Moose Jaw, $45 and up. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $20 each. Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver TV’s and BBQ’s, $20 and up. Looking for body parts for 2017 F250. 306-681-8749.

cation, providing predictable services for the vulnerable individuals, seniors, and family’s increasingly relying on the vital supports.

In addition to meal services, Hope Ministries plans on launching a day space program for individuals who have no shelter during the winter months. While the Willow Lodge shelter provides overnight stays to unhoused community members, there is currently no designated day space for individuals to warm up from the cold. Having a dedicated day space and meal program in one location would allow the provision of not only those immediate services, but also the opportunity to build relationships with guests, facilitating connections with other vital services including housing, addictions supports and other community resources. “By offering nourishing meals and a safe day space, we not only address immediate needs but also create opportunities for individuals to engage with essential support services,” said Mullens. She states the program is intended to “foster a sense of dignity and empowerment, helping individuals take steps toward stability and self-sufficiency.”

Rachel has a breadth of experience working with both the food and housing insecure as she was previously the director of emergency services at Riverside Mission. With over 10 years with the organization, she has seen what works and doesn’t work, and is confident that the

Hair service needs for seniors in your own home. Having a problem getting out... call for more info: 306-690-1865

160 MISCELLANEOUS

FOR SALE - Sunset Cemetery Last Supper Cremation Plot #212. Asking $1600, open to reasonable offers. Please call 306-693-2003.

165 HOUSEHOLD

Leather Couch, mint shape, no bugs. Please call 306-692-0800.

110 AUTO PARTS

Get ready for winter! Four Cooper Weather Master tires on rims. 235/55 R18. Rims are from 2013 Taurus. Asking $300 for all 4. Please call 306-692-3382

new program she is launching will be a success. Another asset Rachel brings to the table is a close working relationship with other community organizations, churches, and businesses.

A permanent meal program and day space will fill two large gaps in the continuum of supports in the city of Moose Jaw and provides much needed alleviation of strain for other locations acting as a makeshift day space such as the Public Library. While Hope Ministries is currently in the development phase as they seek incorporation and charitable status, they are working diligently to make permanent services available to the public as soon as possible. In the interim, meal services remain available to those in need. Rachel states: “Currently, we are providing lunch and supper services Monday through Friday to address the immediate needs of our community.”

Community donations have been vital to maintaining steady meal offerings, and will be pivotal in Hope Ministries formation. Rachel is incredibly thankful for Moose Jaw’s support for these initiatives, and recognizes that partnership with the entire community is what is needed to see programming continue.

Rachel is also very grateful to Square One Community for organizing meal programming in the interim while Hope Ministries is forming. “I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Square One Community for their remarkable support in addressing the food insecurity needs of our community. Their commitment to this mission has been invaluable, and we truly couldn’t have achieved this without them. Together we are making a meaningful difference in our community.”

While Hope Ministries formally establishes, Square One Community Inc. continues to steward and receive donations towards both the temporary meal program and the new permanent program. Tax receiptable donations can be made to communitysquareone@gmail.com, marked “Hope Ministries”.

Questions and comments about Hope Ministries can be directed to: Rachel Mullens at hopeministriesmj@gmail.com.

Maxton Eckstein Square One Community Inc. General Manager
Community volunteers serve supper at St. Aidan’s Anglican Church as part of the temporary initiative to fill meal gaps while Hope Ministries continues to form.
Rachel Mullens, the founder and director of Hope Ministries
Square One is located at the William Milne building at 138 Fairford

Obituaries / Memorials

FLORENCE JOCELYN WOOD (née: Dilworth)

It is with deep sorrow and hearts full of memories that we announce the passing of beloved wife and mother, Florence Jocelyn Wood, who left us peacefully on October 17th, 2024, at the age of 80 years. Born on December 20th, 1943, in Herbert, Saskatchewan, she was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength to all who knew her. Florence was a devoted wife to Gerald who married January 27th, 1962, and a cherished mother to son, Kim; son, Darcy (Kathy) and their son McKenzie; daughter, Kallie and her sons Justin (Caty) and their children Deklan and Paige, Lane, and Keegan; and a special friend whom she considered another son, Chris McKee, who has been a rock of support in these past years, which Florence was so thankful for. Her family was her greatest joy, and she dedicated her life to nurturing and supporting them. Her warmth and generosity extended beyond her family, touching the lives of friends, neighbors, and anyone fortunate enough to cross her path. Florence is also survived by her brother, Allen Dilworth of Herbert, Saskatchewan and Bev (Larry) Ellerman of Medicine Hat, Alberta; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

Florence had a passion for cooking, canning, and baking, and everyone that was fortunate enough to taste this goodness will have fond memories of her welcoming home and love for all, which she pursued with enthusiasm and skill. She had an exceptional skill with ceramics and for many years taught many students the art of ceramics, and adorned the family home with many beautiful pieces which we will cherish. Whether she was cooking, hosting friends and family, sewing, knitting, or taking in stray animals and loving neighborhood children like her own, her creativity and zest for life were evident in everything she did. Her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the delicious aroma of her many famous recipes. She was an avid swimmer and with the family pool, many children learned how to swim while making incredible memories. Florence drove school bus for 34 years, which she thoroughly enjoyed, and had fond memories of the many children that passed through those bus doors. She and Gerald were blessed to enjoy winters in Arizona for 29 years and many holidays with family and friends. She was also a pillar of her community, actively involved throughout the years in volunteering in Caron, where Gerald and Florence raised their family and resided for 48 years until moving to Moose Jaw in 2013. Florence was a committed member of the Red Hats, where she gained many friends/ sisters and had endless fun and laughter. Her selflessness and dedication to helping others were an inspiration to all. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering love.

In keeping with Florence’s wishes, a private family celebration will be held graveside at a later date. Rest in peace, Florence, Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma. Your love and light will never fade, and your countless friends will miss you dearly. Your memory will forever be cherished in our hearts, and your spirit will continue to guide us.

Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Michelle Ellis, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com

Please

In loving memory of my husband Douglas John Buchholz

Nov 4, 1933 – Nov 5, 2002

Trying to explain how much I love and miss you and our dear parents, Fred and Elsie Mochnowed and Fred and Mary Buchholz, Is like trying to count all the stars in the sky. Thanks for your unconditional love and for all the wonderful memories.

Be at peace my darlings and let your souls fly free. I will one day join your glorious flight for all of eternity.

Louise

on while letting go."

Tyson Bilawchuk

Dec. 27, 1981 - Nov. 3, 2019

In Memory of a Special Son

It’s sometimes hard to know Why some things happen as they do For so much joy and happiness Was centred around you

It seems so hard to comprehend That you’re no longer here But all the happy memories Will help to keep you near

You’re thought about with pride, son With each mention of your name Death cannot change a single thing The love will still remain

With love from Mom, Dad, Lyndon and family

Sally Korneychuk (née Gawletz)

December 27, 1946October 4, 2024

*A Life of Love, Determination and Family*

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Sally Korneychuk, a deeply loved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who left us on October 4, 2024, in Mission, BC. She was born in Linz, Austria on December 27, 1946.

Sally’s life was a testament to her deep love for her family, and incredible determination. Gramma Sally’s family was her greatest joy, and she cherished them wholeheartedly.

Sally’s passions were numerous: dining out as she was a huge foodie; cherishing time with, pictures, and memories of her family; baking birthday cakes; cooking up a Ukrainian feast; crafting and crocheting groups; creating beautiful crochet pieces; and mastering diamond painting.

She had a special fondness for Eagles, Hummingbirds, Lilac, and Lavender. Sally was a proud fan of the Vancouver Canucks and Saskatchewan Roughriders. Sally especially enjoyed gathering around a bonfire and sharing special moments and laughter with loved ones.

In celebration of Sally’s life, we remember her beautiful smile, her deep love of her family and community , especially her Grandchildren and Great-Grandchildren. Her legacy of a Grandma’s love, determination, and inner strength will continue to inspire her family and friends. Her living memory will be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

Rest in His Peace, dear Sally, Auntie, Mom, Gramma & Great Gramma Sally. We find Peace knowing we will see you again.

*In Lieu of Flowers* Donations may be made to: The Kidney Foundation of Canada, and the Heart and Stroke foundation of Canada.

Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying.”- John 11:25

Fiddling Around

Champion fiddler Scott Woods and his band performed his Ye Haw show at the Moose Jaw Seniors Centre. The show, partially modelled on the Hee Haw hit TV show, also featured trick fiddling by Woods — using a coat hanger or toilet plunger as a bow, somersaulting while fiddling, playing the bow between his legs and fiddling while on a rolling barrel. Nine of the 59 shows on tour were in Saskatchewan. Ron Walter photos.

" Memories are God's way of allowing us to hold

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

Whimsical

Soon children will be ringing our doorbell and shouting, “Trick or treat.” They arrive dressed up in various costumes, some whimsical in nature. Whimsical outfits imply playful and mostly impractical. Our son wanted to go out for Halloween one year in a tractor costume. So, Patti made use of a box painted blue like the Ford tractor Joel’s grandpa used on the farm. The box fitted over his head, and he was the farmer driving the tractor. It looked very good. But it was hard to hold a bag for candy as his arms stuck way out to the sides. Playful, but impractical for receiving lots of candy.

Whimsical costumes trend away from the scary and “death and mayhem’ themes. Whimsical outfits are usually humorous and eccentric.

Whimsical means full of or characterised by whims, which are odd ideas that usually occur to you very suddenly. Whimsical Halloween outfits pose a challenge to the parents, finding or making something that usually requires a lot of thoughtful preparation.

The origin of whimsical lies in the obscure noun, whim-wham. In the 16th century this referred to an ornamental object or trinket. Eventually it came to describe any eccentric impulse or interest, what we call today, a whim. Whim-wham is in a class of words known as reduplications, that is, words formed by repeating a word or a word that sounds similar. Examples are dilly-dally, ping-pong, knick-knack, zig-zag, flip-flop, okey-dokey, itsy-bitsy, teenie-weenie, super-duper, etc.

Whimsical first described those who tend towards whimsy, that is, fanciful or fantastic. Today whimsical describes things that are unusual in a playful or amusing way. The children were charmed by the book’s whimsical illustrations. When they suggested we join them at the last minute on their trip to Mexico, it struck me as a whimsical idea.

At Hillcrest Golf Course there is an updated master plan for future changes. A solid master plan helps prevent whimsical changes being made by whatever committee is in charge at the time.

Synonyms for whimsical include impulsive, capricious, freakish, and quirky.

Impulsive means arising from a sudden spontaneous inclination or incitement to some usually unpremeditated action. She is often impulsive and does things that she later regrets.

Capricious suggests actions governed or characterised by sudden usually unpredictable conditions, change,

or series of changes. He is capricious and is said to take bribes and wantonly peddle his influence from time to time.

Freakish implies markedly strange or abnormal. He ran into his long-lost friend at the concert due to a freakish twist of fate.

Quirky means having many abrupt twists or curves. It is unusual in an especially interesting or appealing way. She has a quirky sense of humour.

Claire Hoppe recently wrote in Better Homes & Gardens (October 2024), “This Halloween, expect to see traditional and whimsical takes on home aesthetics, ghoulish twists on classic party foods, and costumes with nods to your favorite fall movies and TV shows.”

It seems that more and more homes are purchasing elaborate yard decorations for Halloween. Take a walk around your neighbourhood and you’ll find many front lawns filled with things of the season. Some put up traditional spooky items and characters while others display humourous, eccentric, and even whimsical items.

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.

Returning home: Linda (Laughlin) Jay’s life celebrated in Moose Jaw

Linda Mae (Laughlin) Jay, remembered for her caring nature and strong love of family, died earlier this year and was commemorated on the weekend of Oct. 12.

“My mother was raised in Moose Jaw and met my father at the Temple Gardens Dance Hall,” wrote Jay’s daughter, Sheri Jay. “He (my father) was there for pilot training with the military. They married at the chapel on the base and held their reception at the Grant Hall in the mezzanine.

“In a full circle event, we decided to hold her celebration of life at Grant Hall 61 years later.”

Jay was born in Moose Jaw. Aside from moving around the province on account of her husband’s military service, Jay and her daughter spent much of their time in Moose Jaw and on the family farm near Swift Current.

Jay said that, even as she and her family often had to move, Moose Jaw always represented home.

“As the child of a military father who moved every one to three years, this (city) was my home base,” Jay said. “(It was) the one place I came back to and everything was the same. (It was) my foundation.

“(I remember) going to the corner store (called) Blackie’s for milk and bread, and Rodos Pizza. Everything about it is home.”

The pilgrimage was marked by both

fond memories and a sad sense of change.

“When we floated the idea of this family pilgrimage, some said there is nothing there,” wrote Jay, who noted the claims were backed by a few Google Images searches.

The group visited the family homesteads and old stomping grounds — or what remained — where they lived before the Dirty Thirties drove them to the city in search of better prospects. The tour included Trewdale, Sask., the Trew and Jackson homesteads, Shamrock, Sask., the Bethlehem Cemetery, “and, finally, a tavern in Coderre where my gramps would have spent time lifting a glass and telling lies with his friends.”

“Trewdale was once a bustling small town with a grain elevator, a post office, and a railway,” Jay recalled. “It sprouted up around my great, great grandmother Trew’s farmhouse where she… helped others in childbirth and was the social butterfly of homesteading times.

“Safe to say, this trait has continued down the line with my sister and I, and many cousins also share this sense of

community building,” she added.

Despite moving across what is now a changing Prairie landscape, Jay always remained connected to Moose Jaw and requested to be buried in the city she called home.

“With my mother’s passing earlier this year, we knew we would honour her wishes to be buried alongside her parents and siblings and (allow her to be) surrounded by other family members such as her grandparents and aunts in other parts of the graveyard,” Jay said.

After processing the news, the time felt right and Jay’s family and close friends gathered to combine her internment with a family reunion. Family members soon arrived from Quebec, Alberta, B.C., all over Saskatchewan, and from as far away as Texas to celebrate her life and lay her to rest.

“It was a picture perfect Prairie day

with full sun and high wind as we laid my mother to rest with her living family around her and the deceased family below us.

“Childhood friends and family (stood) in a circle… We all laid a fresh flower atop the grave,” Jay said. “Her grandson Justin made a beautiful toast about her love of family, caring nature, and their common bond around the Andromeda Galaxy.”

The Grant Hall memorial included “a slideshow of almost every picture ever taken of my mother,” Jay said, adding that her father “spent weeks and months scanning every picture he had in photo albums to create this (slideshow).

“(It was) a healing journey for him, I think. Many stories were told, laughter and tears (were shared). She would have loved it.”

When the gathering drew to a close, Jay reflected on the day and on her mother’s memory.

“I walked away with Prairie dust on my boots and knowing she was where she wanted to be — as hard as it was to leave her there.

“It was hard to leave her behind in Moose Jaw, but it’s where she wanted to come home to and rest and I know one day I will also do the same,” Jay concluded. “Her family, Moose Jaw, and Rosedale Cemetery meant so much to her.”

A memorial board for Linda Jay is available online at KudoBoard.com/ Boards/DcZaD4Ss.

Iver Main Dinner & Live Auction

Nov. 23, 2024 Central Butte School

Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“It was a picture perfect Prairie day with full sun and high wind as we laid my mother to rest with her living family around her and the deceased family below us.” Photo by: Sheri Jay
A photo of Jay’s husband Ed Jay (left) and herself (right) on their wedding day. Photo by: Sheri Jay
Linda (Laughlin) Jay now rests at the Rosedale Cemetery among loved ones in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Sheri Jay
An earlier photo of Linda (Laughlin) Jay.
Photo by: Sheri Jay
Ed Jay (left) and Linda (Laughlin) Jay (right) at the Grant Hall Hotel.
Photo by: Sheri Jay

Provincial Court Report

Assiniboia man’s defence needs time to review ‘voluminous’ child-related sexual offences files

The provincial Crown has amassed such a “voluminous” number of files on Assiniboia resident Richard Dyke for his alleged offences against minors that his defence requires more time to review the paperwork.

Defence counsel Estes Fonkalsrud appeared in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Oct. 21, where he told Judge David Chow that this file includes such a “substantial amount of disclosure — we’re talking about thousands of pages of documents” — that he may require more information from the Crown.

Crown prosecutor Monique Paquin said she wasn’t sure what disclosure Fonkalsrud needed but acknowledged that this was a “voluminous file” because of the 60

counts of sexual offences alleged against Dyke.

“It’s a situation where due to the severity … and volume of the charges, there is some additional work we need to get to counsel to determine where we go from here,” she added.

The judge then agreed to adjourn the matter to 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 25.

According to previous information, Dyke was initially arrested in November 2023 after the RCMP received a report of sexual assaults involving three boys under the age of 12 around 2015. When first arrested, Dyke was charged with 13 sex-related offences.

Dyke now faces 60 charges, including 14 counts

of sexual assault, 14 counts of sexual interference, nine counts of voyeurism, and 23 counts of making child pornography under the Criminal Code. The RCMP said 32 children — some as young as 18 months old — have been identified in an ongoing investigation on the Assiniboia resident.

Police said Dyke was living at home and his partner was operating a registered daycare at the address when the offences took place.

The General Investigation Section and Internet Child Exploitation units of the RCMP continue to investigate the case to determine whether there are additional victims that have not yet been identified.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE

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

COSMO CENTRE CRAFTS & PRODUCTS

FAIR will be held from 9am-3pm on Saturday, November 2 at the Cosmo Centre. Come and pick up some early Christmas gifts or simply pamper yourself! Concession open. $2 Donation to enter for a surprise draw.

For more information contact Anita (306) 6301256.

Moose Jaw Camera Club meeting November 4 at 7:00 pm at Cosmo Sr. Citizen’s Centre will begin with a Critique on “Nature” themed images and then be dedicated to the new emerging cell/ smart phone photography, with a workshop by cell phone photographer Colleen Raes, followed by a viewing of members’ cell/smart phone images. Attend this meeting if you want to learn to take better cell phone pictures. Guests are welcome for a small fee. For more information: Rachel 306-693-0159 or Betty 306-371-5220. Lawn Bowling is a sport for all levels of ability. During winter, Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling club invites everyone to try it on the turf at Yara Centre starting Nov 5@10am Instruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-630-8160 or visit www. moosejawlawnbowling.com

Square One Community 3rd Annual Empty Bowls Fundraising Event will be held on Nov. 15 at Zion United Church Lower Hall. Doors Open at 11am. Soups served at 11:30-1pm. Delicious Soups/Bowls to keep/Program/Silent auction/ Staycation Raffle. All funds go toward Square One Supportive Housing wrap around services initiative for those who are housing insecure. For Tickets ($20pp) : email communitysquareone@ gmail.com

Or call: 306-630-6121 and leave a message. Branch 59 Royal Canadian Legion Moose Jaw Special General Meeting will be held on November 16 at 1 pm in the Main Lounge of the Legion, 268 High Street West, to discuss our move and funding for renovations. All voting members are encouraged to attend. Superannuated Teachers of Sask. Moose Jaw Branch Luncheon will be held on November 20 at the Masonic Temple Hall, 1755 Main St. N. S6J 1L6, Moose Jaw, Sask.

NEW LUNCHEON FORMAT - 10:30 – 11:00

Coffee Chat -circulate and connect with past colleagues/11:00 – 11:30 Speaker or Entertainment/11:40 – 12:30 Dinner/12:35 -1:15 Meeting, for those of you who wish to stay. Program: STS Provincial President Sue Amundrud/Noon Luncheon: Turkey Dinner, Caterer: Charlotte’s Cost: $15 per STS member and spouse. $25 for non-members. Please RSVP to Rosalie by Sunday, Nov. 17/24, @ 306-691-0696, or email stsmoosejaw@gmail. com, or click on the link in your latest STSMJ Newsletter. (If you haven’t received your newsletter please check your junk/spam mail or, follow the directions on www.stsmoosejaw.com ***Coming Soon: Info on our Christmas Social. LUNCHEON Meetings: Masonic Hall, Main Street @ 10:30 AM - Wed. Nov 20, 2024/Wed. Jan 15, 2025/Wed. March 19, 2025/Wed. May 21, 2025 78TH ROTARY CAROL FESTIVAL—Monday and Tuesday, December 9 and 10th at 7 p.m. at Zion on Main. The Moose Jaw Rotary Club with assistance from the Salvation Army are asking those desiring to participate in this year’s event to register. Please use email at rmontgomery39@ outlook.com before the deadline of November 15. Previous duos to choirs have brought joy to many. Let us work together to continue celebrating the season with song. BRIDGE LESSONS - It’s fun, social and a great game! Thursday evenings 7:00-9:00 pm Oct. 3 – Nov. 28 (9 sessions for $45) For more information or to register call Anita (306) 6301256 Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: November, January, February, March, April and May. Call or text 306 756 2819. The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 7 pm at St Andrews Church from September until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects. New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw “The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further

information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@hotmail.com

The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will resume meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The first meeting will be at 6:30pm, in Lindale School staff room, 1322 11th Avenue NW (north entrance). Phone 306-693-5705 for information.

Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. Winter 2024 Program on Monday nights from 7-9pm at St. Mary’s School, 720 –5th Ave. SW. Dance in a square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles or doubles welcome! Scottish Country Dance Classes for all ages on Thursdays at 7pm at 510 Main St. N (T. Eaton Bldg). No partner required. Call Val @306.630.5790. Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month basis to take place on the third Friday of each month Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questionsCall or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well:-Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord. Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded. Toastmasters Celebrating 100 Years of providing communications skill education. The Moose Jaw Clubs invite guests to all meetings. TAP Toastmasters meet Tuesdays @7pm on zoom. Big Country Club meet Wed @ 7 in person @Saskpolytech. Big Country Toastmasters invites everyone including former members, people who are new residents to Canada to visit. For more information email officers-3418@toastmastersclubs.org or text 306-690-8739. For more Information text 306-690-8739 or email officers-3418@toastmastersclubs.org

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group meets at The Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E., Moose Jaw. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8:00 – 8:45 am. Meeting to follow. Scale weighs to 350 lbs. Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops. org Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787. Visit their website at https://www.moosejawlibrary.ca or visit ASK@MOOSEJAWLIBRARY.CA

Some library programs require registration by calling 306-692-8210 or emailing nsetter@ moosejawlibrary.ca

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING:

TECH TIME available by appointment during open hours in the main library for adults by appointment only - please call the library at 306692-2787 to schedule an appointment.

ADULT PROGRAMMING:

DOCUMENTARY NIGHT Thursday, October 31 @ 6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults Drop-in program Movie: Room 237 FRIGHT FEST ON KANOPY All month long from horror classics to thrilling adventures, Fright Fest celebrates horror and fascination during this spooky season. Get your flashlight ready and start streaming, only on Kanopy with your library card.

YOUTH PROGRAMS:

DIGITAL D&D Fridays from 4:00-6:00 pm at the MJPL Youth Discord Channel for ages 16-25. No

D&D Oct 25

Registration required - Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire.

BEETLEJUICE MOVIE NIGHT Wednesday, October 30 @6:30 pm in MJPL Theatre Ages for all ages Drop-in program

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMS : PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays @10:30 am in the Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their adults! Drop-in Program LITERACY CALENDARS

Download October Early Literacy Calendar DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays @ 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring daycare providers! Drop-in Program.

BABY STORYTIME on Tuesdays in the Children’s Program Room for ages up to 2 and their caring adults!

LEGO WEEKENDS! Saturdays & Sundays during open hours in the Children’s department for ages 4+ as a self-guided activity.

The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453

Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59 BINGO – Monday @ 6pm

CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Legion Money Raffle Draw – Final Draw Dec 21 @1:30pm 3 Early Bird Draws Oct 5 @1:30pm for $1000each. 200 tickets available @$20each. 19+ to purchase tickets. Total retail prize $23,000. Tickets available at Legion. Call office at 306.692.5453 or 306.693.9688 to pay Visa or Mastercard.

Branch 59 Royal Canadian Legion Moose Jaw Special General Meeting will be held on the 16 of November, 2024 at 1 pm in the Main Lounge of the Legion, 268 High Street West, to discuss our move and funding for renovations. All voting members are encouraged to attend. Mulberry Estates – 220 Mulberry Ln, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 1N1. Call Sales and Marketing Tricia Oblander at (306) 694-5020 Mulberry Estates Flannels and Flapjacks event at 9 a.m. on Thursday November 7th Come show off your favourite flannels while you enjoy some delicious flapjacks made just for you by our Chef›s. Who doesn›t love a pancake breakfast?! Join at 220 Mulberry Lane. Limited spots available! Please call Tricia at 306.694.5020 to reserve your spot today!

Mulberry Estates Open House Tradeshow at 220 Mulberry Lane on Saturday, November 16th from 11a.m. - 4p.m. Come help spread joy like confetti without all the mess! Many vendors booked and you will have the opportunity to come see our refresh. Mulberry Estates has new flooring, paint, decor, furniture and a new kitchen. See all the updates while you shop for that special someone! Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open Mon-Thurs 8am – 8pm. Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open M-T and Friday’s 8am-8pm/ Lounge – Friday’s from 8am-4pm. Wood working area – Mon- Fri 8am – 4pm/ Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri, 8am –4pm. Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cinnamon Buns on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed. Billiards daily 8a.m. – 4p.m.; Monday & Thursday evenings 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 10 a.m/Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m./Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m./ Wednesday pickleball @ 5pm Cancelled for the summer months Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Mondays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m. Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.; Whist –Tuesday @ 1pm; Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.; Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm; 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m.; Spades – Tuesday and Fridays 1pm Full Body work out – Monday’s 10am & Wednesday 9:30am Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

JAW

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.

Check them out on

: 9:30am-Pickleball/1pm-Floor

on the

of the

Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pmBeginners Only Pickleball Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pmRegular Pickleball Saturday, November 2, 9:00 - 3:00 Craft Fair, Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Center Saturday, November 16, 7:30pm - 11:00pm Social Dance - Sugar Top (Diane Humble) Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net

Every Wednesday, open 12-6 pm, Smear –Starts at 1 pm Every Thursday, open 12-7 pm, Smear – Starts at 1 pm, Crib starts Sept. 5th; registration at 1 pm; Crib starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a partner or sign up as a spare.

Every Friday, open 1-10 pm, drop in shuffleboard. Register at 1 pm. Play starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a partner. Drop in pool and darts. Register by 6:30 pm. Play starts at 7 pm. Bring a partner. Every Saturday, open 1-7 pm. Meat draw starts at 4:30 pm, 10 meat draws, 4 free draws, gift card and 50/50. Everyone welcome. Hall rentals available – book now! Available now! 6th Annual 50/50 Tickets. $10/ ticket. Only 1000 tickets sold. Could win up to $5000 if all tickets are sold. Draw date will be in December.

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395 EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play.

FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm DROP IN DARTS - Every Wednesday evening -starts September 4, 2024– continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, draw for partners, starts at 7:00 pm. DROP IN CRIBBAGE - Every Monday evening -starts September 9, 2024– continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, registration between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm – play starts at 7:00 pm.

Saturday, November 16, 2024 - Runaway Train will be playing in the Eagles Club Lounge – 8:30 pm start – come out and enjoy the music, dancing and fellowship. Saturday, November 30, 2024 - The Eagles club Lounge is pleased to have “Two Easy” playing – come out and dance the night away to some really great music.

NEW YEARS EVE - Great Party time going on in the Eagles Club Lounge with Brandon & Company – bring in the new year right…Watch for more details.

Christmas shoppers and curious guests attend another successful Whistlestop craft show

Early Christmas shoppers and residents who turned out for Christmas in October were delighted to attend a second craft show at Whistlestop 2024 where a packed hall and unique gift ideas marked the return of the annual show this month.

Whistlestop ‘24 was held at the Exhibition Grounds for a one-day event on Oct. 26.

“Me and my wife organize the whole (Whistlestop) sale,” announced Matthew Bader, a co-organizer of the event.

“We get all these crafters in from wherever they want to come from, and we try to get as many different types of crafters as we can,” he said. Many of the goods sold at Whistlestop, he added, would make a great Christmas present.

“We’re matching up with Christmas in October in downtown Moose Jaw… (and we hope to) help bring people in for that, and then they’ll (bring in people for us) and vice versa.”

The purpose of continuing the annual Whistlestop event, as Bader sees it, is to continue the 20-plus year legacy started by his mom, Shelley Bader. The event changed hands back in 2021 when Shelley died and passed on the torch to her son.

“We’re not out to make a huge profit off of it,” he explained. “We’re just getting people in, getting people to buy their (homemade crafts and other products), and it’s more of a legacy for us.”

This year, Bader estimated that around 60 vendors were in attendance and sold everything from food to jewellery and from paintings to candles. He said that around half of these vendors are returning from last year or previous years, and something like half of them are attending for the first time.

Nissa Giene-Wareham, owner of artisaNGrounds, was one of the vendors at Whistlestop ’24 and was attending her fourth year at the annual event.

“I love Whistlestop. It’s one of my favourite markets,” she said. “I like, first of all, that it’s indoors and I’m not battling with the weather, because most of my markets are outdoors. And then, it’s just got such a big following… that keep(s) coming back and it’s nice to see those (familiar) faces.”

Another vendor, Mama Charlotte’s Pastries, featured African dishes and a mixture of Canadian and African foods including cookies, pies, and scones. Traditional dishes included Ghana pastries — which were confirmed to be quite delicious as she offered a few free samples — mini donuts, and other snacks.

For Charlotte, it was her first time at Whistlestop. “It’s really good, and I’m going to continue to come every year,” she said. “(I have) a lot of people coming (and getting) to know my business.”

Patti Lewis, who owns Patti Lewis Art, attended Whistlestop and sold artwork including many of her original watercolours. Lewis has been painting for over

30 years and said the show has been “exciting.”

“This is my second time here, and yeah, it’s been a good experience,” she said. “The people hosting it are great, and customers are (receiving) lots of complements and (getting) lots of sales.” Lewis said she’s noticed a marked uptick in sales each time she attended Whistlestop.

“We’re just happy to have a thing for Moose Jaw people to come out to — and people in the surrounding areas — and it kind of gets them in the Christmas spirit to start off the (new) year and then go from there,” Bader concluded.

To learn more about artisaNGrounds, visit ArtisanGrounds.net.

To learn more about Patti Lewis Art, visit PattiLewisArt.com.

To contact Mama Charlotte’s Pastries, call 306313-8334.

The next Whistlestop event is expected to take place at the same venue in October 2025.

n a rare natural occurrence, residents of Moose Jaw were able to witness the passage of Comet Tsuchinshan-Atlas as it flew by the earth this month. The comet’s closest approach to earth took place on Oct. 12 at a distance of 0.47 AU (Astronomical Units). For reference, one Astronomical Unit is the approximate distance between the earth and the sun, or just over 149 billion metres. Comets are not usually this bright which makes Tsuchinshan-Atlas exceptionally

155 Veterans Drive - Briercrest
752 Tatanka Dr – South Lake
Patti Lewis, owner of Patti Lewis Art, was one of the approximately 60 vendors at Whistlestop 2024. Photo by: Aaron Walker
These “moody mugs” adorned the wall of Nissa Giene-Wareham’s artisaNGrounds booth at Whistlestop. Photo by: Aaron Walker
rare. Photo by: Michael St. Laurent

Humane Society showcases its fun, festive Halloween-themed hoodies

To help the non-profit Moose Jaw Humane Society raise funds to maintain its daily operations, the design team at the Moose Jaw Express has partnered with the shelter to create a fun line of Halloween-themed hoodies which are now available for sale.

The shelter’s lineup of fundraising merchandise includes a festively decorated Halloween-themed hoodie for children and adults and a crewneck option as well.

“I’ve worked with Skye Mercier and the Moose Jaw Express, and Kevin (Ogle) at SaskPromo.com has helped us create a Halloween-edition hoodie and crewneck (line) and it has gone over amazingly,” announced Donna Fritzke, the fundraising co-ordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society.

Proceeds from the sale of these hoodies — and all the shelter’s books and other merchandise — goes toward supporting its day-to-day operations and helps each of the pets in its care. “It’s an amazing fundraising (option) for sure,” Fritzke confirmed.

Fritzke said the feedback she typically receives is that the hoodies are “so cute” and said a lot of people want one for Halloween. “A lot of adults said they’re going to wear them the day of Halloween as their Halloween costume,” she said. “We’ve seen them at the schools and hockey games, and even here at the Whistlestop craft show (where the Humane Society held a vendor’s booth).

“We’ve had nurses come in and buy them, and (they said) that they’re wearing them at the hospital,” she added.

What Fritzke appreciates most is the sheer amount of support from the community. In a two-week period, Fritzke said the shelter has sold 175 items including kids’ hoodies, adult hoodies, and crewneck sweaters.

“It’s just amazing. It’s so much fun to come up with an idea that people actually love, and it’s raising money for the shelter,” she said. “We’ve done exceptionally well — so far beyond my expectations.”

Each design is drafted by staff at the

have another whole new look. It’s really fun.”

Fritzke wished to thank everyone who helped in the project including Mercier, herself a tattoo artist by trade who works at The Amber Room.

“I would like to mention a very special thank you to Starla and her staff at the Starlight Handmade Market for selling our merchandise,” Fritzke added. “One hundred per cent of the proceeds go towards helping our furry friends which is absolutely amazing.

“From all the pets at the shelter, Happy Halloween!” she concluded.

Humane Society and then taken to Mercier, who comes up with a final draft to be approved by the shelter. “We just give her a ballpark idea of what we’re looking for, and she comes up with the idea. She nails it on the head all the time.”

Fritzke said the shelter now plans to add a Christmas-themed design. “So, within the next couple of weeks, we’ll

The Humane Society’s merchandise can be purchased at the shelter or at the Starlight Handmade Market at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall.

The Moose Jaw Humane Society is located at 1755 Stadacona Street West and can be reached at 306-692-1517. For more information visit MJHS.ca or follow ‘Moose Jaw Humane Society’ on Facebook.

WDM celebrates all things spooky with this year’s ‘Halloween Hurrah’ event

The Western Development Museum (WDM) in Moose Jaw celebrated the spooky festivities of the season this past weekend with the return of its annual “Halloween Hurrah” family event.

Halloween Hurrah took place throughout the museum’s galleries on the afternoon of Oct. 26.

“When you come to the museum (during the event), you pick up an activity card and then you get to do each activity to get a stamp,” explained Alexis Jones, the museum’s programs and volunteer co-ordinator.

“Once you collect all of your stamps, you get a goodie bag,” she said. These goodie bags came with a selection of candies, a pencil and notebook, and other trinkets intended for younger guests

Bob’s

After the conclusion of their first year of business, Aubrey and Dwayne Shpaiuk, co-owners of Bob’s Ice Cream, are looking back on what they’re calling a successful year of selling delicious frozen ice cream treats in Moose Jaw.

Bob’s Ice Cream first opened on June 1 and the last day for sales at the window along Caribou Street West was Sept. 29. The shop’s remaining ice cream was then packaged and sold as pints until inventory was completely sold out on Oct. 4.

“Our first year was really good. Everything ran pretty seamlessly and was even better than we expected,” Aubrey said. She described support from the community as “fantastic” and even a bit “overwhelming” at times, but added that she was happy to receive lots of support, great feedback, and several repeat customers.

The most popular ice cream flavours

courtesy of the museum.

This year’s Halloween-themed event saw a fairly steady influx of guests and Jones said her earliest estimate was “at least 100 visitors.” Halloween Hurrah contained six stations including a photo booth, web walker maze, a scarecrow craft station, “pin the nose on the pumpkin,” an eyeball bounce, and a witches’ hat ring toss.

This year’s lineup was double the size of last year’s Halloween event, Jones said, noting that last year only saw three event stations but the trend is heading in the right direction.

Jones is asking all guests who attended this year’s Halloween Hurrah event to leave feedback — in case they missed the feedback table near the entrance and exit

to the event — to help the museum improve its activities for next year.

“We are happy to see everybody out in their costumes,” Jones said near the end of the program. “We had one kid who came as an elephant and he’s like, “I know there are no animals allowed, but you’ve got to make an exception.’ So, that was fun.”

For more information about the WDM and its ongoing program options, visit WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Alexis Jones can be reached by phone at 306-6935989 or by email at AJones@wdm.ca. The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.

Cream wraps up its first successful season with plans to return in 2025

in year one included chocolate peanut butter cup, chocolate caramel cup, and cherry cheesecake.

The inspiration behind Bob’s Ice Cream came from an idea to commemorate co-owner Dwayne Shpaiuk’s father, Bob Shpaiuk, who died four years earlier. His passion was ice cream and now the family wanted to carry on his legacy.

“It was a tradition — Bob would always be the first one to introduce ice cream to any of the grandkids,” Aubrey said at the start of the season. “So, it was just special.

she said. “Everyone did so good — they caught on quickly, were friendly, courteous, and just amazing. We couldn’t have asked for better staff.”

When asked if the couple plans to reopen next year, Aubrey replied “100 per cent” with confidence and said they’re both “very excited” for the return to business as usual.

-ing to come up with a name for the place, he was just kind of joking about ‘Bob’s Ice Cream,’ and we were like, ‘Oh, why

The Shpaiuks also founded Bob’s Ice Cream with the vision of giving back to

the community. To achieve this, they provide valuable entry-level work for Moose Jaw’s younger residents.

In 2025 the business is set to include the same delicious ice cream and high level of service and, with 30 flavours now available, Aubrey said she isn’t looking to expand on this anytime soon. There was one secret that she was willing to reveal, however.

“We have four teenage kids and it’s just really hard for them to find jobs right now,” Aubrey said. “So, we (opened the business) to create opportunities for them (and) others in Moose Jaw because not many people will hire a 14-year-old.”

In its first year, the business hired nine students and their roles included opening procedures, closing duties, cashing out, and each youth gained experience in cus-

“The students that we hired were… from 14 to 19 (years of age) and we had a couple of the students acting in a senior role when the younger kids came in,”

“We are going to serve soft serve (ice cream) next year, so we’ll be able to make milkshakes and we might even get into (our own version) of Blizzard (frozen treats),” she said.

“We’re super thankful and grateful for all the support the community has shown,” Aubrey concluded. “Whether they stopped by to buy ice cream, shared a post, brought a friend… it was just really good. We’re very appreciative.”

Bob’s Ice Cream is now closed for the winter but is scheduled to reopen during May long weekend in 2025.

The ice cream business is located at 50 Caribou Street West. For more information and possible announcements visit ‘Bob’s Ice Cream’ on Facebook.

- Moose Jaw Express
A girl tosses rings onto an assortment of witch hats during “Halloween Hurrah” at the WDM on Oct. 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Donna Fritzke showcases the Humane Society’s new lineup of Halloween-themed hoodies on Oct. 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Ice
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Bob’s Ice Cream co-owners Aubrey Shpaiuk (left) and Dwayne Shpaiuk (right). Photo by: Aaron Walker

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