Get ready to tap your toes to music from ABBA and enjoy some Greek culture as Vanier Collegiate’s theatre troupe prepares to entertain audiences with the musical comedy Mamma Mia!
The production is at the Mae Wilson Theatre from Thursday, Nov. 21 to Saturday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. and at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24. Adult tickets are $25 each and student tickets are $20 each.
For tickets, visit www.moosejawculture.ca.
The show’s synopsis reads: “Welcome to a Greek island paradise where (this) heartwarming story of a mother, a daughter, and their search for identity unfolds. On the eve of her wedding, Sophie’s quest to discover who her father is brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.
“The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter, and friendship. Non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make Mamma Mia! a show to remember.”
Student Kallie New portrays the character of Ali, who is one of Sophie’s best friends and a bridesmaid. Ali is also like the mother of the group since she’s uptight and concerned about her friends’ safety and well-being.
“Which fits my role in real life because I’m always the mother of every group I’m in,” New laughed.
The Grade 10 student has been singing since she was 12, but this is her first acting gig, and so far, it has been great. She joined the troupe because she took a drama class from teacher Kelsey Warren — a co-leader of the drama club — and was convinced to participate.
I’ve had so much fun in drama class that I wanted to join the musical, and I’m so happy I did it,” New remarked.
New’s favourite parts have been working with new people since they share many laughs on and off set. Moreover, she likes how everyone supports and accepts each other, while she also enjoys how talented the actors are.
The first-year actor hasn’t experienced any nervousness so far but joked that that
may happen closer to showtime and could “kick me in the stomach.” However, she is confident in her skills because of how much the group practises and because she is with her friends.
Student Arlyn Dequina is the stage manager on “Mamma Mia!,” a role she held last year on the production of “Elf.”
As stage manager, she oversees the
“Sophie,” as portrayed by Charley Lemcke (right), speaks to three men who could be her father. From left are “Harry” (Maia Boyer), “Bill” (Rowynn Anderson) and “Sam” (Griffin Hender). Photo by Jason G. Antonio
cast and crew and manages logistics. Her main responsibilities include reminders about rehearsal dates, the practising of lines and choreography, and due dates for set construction.
This year’s cast and crew are exceptional since everyone works hard on stage or behind the scenes, while managing the 40 members is relatively easy since directors like Mrs. Warren keep everyone in line, said Dequina. That makes her role much less hectic, while the play is also less technical compared to last year.
“I think Vanier’s cast and crew are just all so talented and there’s just something about them,” the Grade 12 student continued. “Their dedication, they’re (willingness) to do everything that’s presented to them, all of that is just cool to see.”
Dequina is in Grade 12 this year, which means this will be her final show at Vanier.
“My relationships with the cast and crew have definitely developed and it’s really sad to see that this is my last production,” she added, “but because it’s a really good one, I think it will end my high school experience on a very good note.”
“Money,
surrounds “Donna” (Natalie Warren) during
G. Antonio
15 Wing honours five residents who exhibit upstanding behaviour
15 Wing Air Base has honoured five residents with a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) centennial coin for the values and behaviours they exhibit that align with the Canadian Armed Forces Ethos.
The base handed out the coins to Donna Fritzke, John Thomson, LJ Tyson, Lucille Gilliand and Alexis Epp during a traditional military honours and awards ceremony on Oct. 30. The residents are now part of the 100 Coins to 100 Canadians centennial initiative that the RCAF is promoting to recognize people who demonstrate RCAF values.
The specific values that individuals must exhibit include loyalty, integrity, courage, excellence, inclusion and/ or accountability. Furthermore, people considered worthy of recognition must have a positive effect within their communities.
Col. D. S. Coutts, 15 Wing Base Commander, and Chief Warrant Officer R.I. Fox handed out the coins to the recipients.
Coin recipients
Donna Fritzke
Donna Fritzke is a fundraising coordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society and has enhanced the shelter’s care for abandoned pets through innovative fundraising.
Scott Moe has announced his new cabinet and has named Moose Jaw North MLA Tim McLeod as attorney general and minister of justice, corrections and public safety.
Furthermore, Moe also named McLeod as the government house leader in the government caucus.
Before this appointment, the Moose Jaw North MLA had served as the minister of mental health and addictions, seniors and rural and remote health.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Her bookstore initiatives, including a partnership with Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, have raised nearly $2,000 monthly and totalled $26,000 in 2023. With community support and volunteer dedication, her efforts address book excess and strengthen community backing for the shelter’s mission.
John Thomson
John Thomson is a dedicated volunteer at the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank who has demonstrated exceptional leadership during a crisis caused by a water leak. He launched a successful sixday GoFundMe campaign, raising nearly $24,000 to cover repair costs and enabling the food bank to reopen quickly.
Supported by businesses and a compassionate community, Thomson’s initiative highlighted the resilience and solidarity of Moose Jaw and showcased the powerful effect of community action in times of need.
LJ Tyson
LJ Tyson, a Cree/Metis folkpop artist, has turned his journey as a queer Indigenous person into a source of inspiration through his music. His heartfelt song, “Home on a Rainbow,” reflects the challenges he faced growing up in rural Saskatchewan and serves as a beacon of hope for others navigating similar struggles.
Recognized with a special distinction award from the SOCAN Foundation’s TD Indigenous Songwriter Award, Tyson aims to connect diverse audiences and deliver powerful messages of acceptance and resilience. By sharing his story, he not only celebrates his identity but also fosters understanding and encourages others to embrace their true selves.
Lucille Gilliand
Lucille Gilliland, executive director of the Southwest Day Care and Early Learning Centre, has been pivotal in leading a critical fundraising campaign to prevent the venue’s closure due to unexpected renovation costs exceeding $200,000.
By MooseJawToday.com staff
“This is a new beginning — a new government with a new mandate from Saskatchewan voters, and today we have a new cabinet,” Moe said in a news release.
“I know every minister is looking forward to taking on their new responsibilities, addressing the opportunities and challenges that face Saskatchewan.
“In the recent election, many people voted to re-elect our government to ensure a strong economy and a bright future, while many others voted for change,” he
continued. “Our new government will deliver both.
“We will ensure Saskatchewan’s economy remains strong and growing, while addressing the challenges of a growing province like timely access to health care and improved learning opportunities for children in our schools.”
The government’s longest-serving minister, Jim Reiter, becomes the new deputy premier and minister of finance. Reiter has been a minister since 2009. He will also serve as minister of labour relations and workplace safety and minister of immigration and career training.
Four ministers are entering cabinet for the first time:
• Alana Ross as minister of Parks, Culture and Sport and minister responsible for the Status of Women, Tourism Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
• Daryl Harrison as minister of Agriculture
• Travis Keisig as minister of Environment
• Eric Schmalz as minister of Government Relations, Minister responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs
Two former ministers will re-enter cabinet:
• Ken Cheveldayoff as minister of Advanced Education
• Warren Kaeding as minister of Trade and Export Development
Under her leadership, the centre has organized several fundraisers to rally community support. A respected educator, Gilliland received the Prime Minister’s Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education in 2013 for her innovative teaching methods.
Since 1975, the daycare has cared for over 2,000 children, providing welcoming and safe early learning experiences, particularly for those with special needs. Her commitment to preserving this vital resource highlights the effect of dedicated leadership in challenging times.
Alexis Epp
At just 22, Alexis Epp transformed her struggles with mental illness into a powerful initiative to help young people. She co-created “Mental Wellness 30,” a groundbreaking course for high school and university students in Saskatchewan, designed to equip them with tools to manage anxiety and depression.
Launched by the Sun West Distance Learning Centre, the course emphasizes prevention and self-care, fostering a supportive environment for students. Epp’s dedication to improving mental health education ensures that young people do not feel alone in their struggles, while she continues to have a lasting effect on her community.
Current ministers taking on new responsibilities are:
• Everett Hindley becomes minister of Education
• Jeremy Cockrill becomes minister of Health
• Lori Carr becomes minister of Mental Health and Addictions, Seniors and Rural and Remote Health
• David Marit becomes minister of Highways, Minister of SaskBuilds and Procurement
• Jeremy Harrison becomes minister of Crown Investments Corporation and all of its commercial Crown Corporations, and minister responsible for the Public Service Commission
• Terry Jenson becomes minister of Social Services
• Colleen Young becomes minister of Energy and Resources
The new 16-member cabinet is two ministers smaller than the previous cabinet.
Premier Moe also named the new House leadership positions for the government caucus. They are:
• Deputy House Leader, Lori Carr
• Government Whip, Todd Goudy
• Deputy Whip, Sean Wilson
Jamie Martens becomes the new provincial secretary.
Premier Moe also said the government is planning to hold a fall sitting of the Legislature and a date for the Throne Speech will be announced soon.
15 Wing Commander Col. Dan Coutts (left) and Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox present an RCAF 100 Coin to Lucille Gilliand (centre). Photo by 15 Wing Imaging
15 Wing Commander Col. Dan Coutts (left) and Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox present an RCAF 100 Coin to Alexis Epp (centre). Photo by 15 Wing Imaging
15 Wing Commander Col. Dan Coutts (left) and Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox present an RCAF 100 Coin to John Thomson (centre). Photo by 15 Wing Imaging
15 Wing Commander Col. Dan Coutts (left) and Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox present an RCAF 100 Coin to LJ Tyson (centre). Photo by 15 Wing Imaging
15 Wing Commander Col. Dan Coutts (left) and Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox present an RCAF 100 Coin to Donna Fritzke (centre). Photo by 15 Wing Imaging
Premier
Flying down south for the winter? Fly in for an investment plan first!
Please call for your personal appointment to review your investment plan today.
Raymond James Ltd., Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
Sask. Polytech offering new financial awards thanks to big donation
Students who take electrical engineering technology at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Moose Jaw campus and are in the final year of their program are now eligible for a new financial award.
The Samit and Reshma Sharma Foundation recently donated $200,004 to establish an endowment for student awards that recognizes outstanding graduating students in programs for which each campus is historically renowned.
Samit Sharma believes in the importance of post-secondary education, the power of knowledge and the value of excellence. Those key values led Sharma, an engineer and entrepreneur, to invest in Sask. Polytech and its students. He attended graduate school in Saskatchewan and met many accomplished alumni throughout his career.
“Our goal with the foundation is to celebrate excellence —excellence in education and in student achievement,” Sharma said.
“By establishing this endowment, we want to recognize the high quality of Sask. Polytech programming and reward students who have excelled academically and demonstrated exceptional leadership and community involvement.”
The newly established Samit and
By MooseJawToday.com staff
Reshma Sharma Excellence Awards are available for eligible students who are enrolled full-time in their final year in:
• Regina campus: Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing
• Saskatoon campus: Combined Laboratory and X-Ray Technology
• Prince Albert campus: Integrated Resource Management
To be considered for these awards, students must exhibit strong academic performance, leadership skills and community engagement. While each award is worth $2,500 initially, the value will increase over time as the endowment grows. The inaugural student awards — $10,000 in total — will be granted next spring through a nomination process within the four programs.
“In Canada, I find that people are shy talking about what they excel at. With these awards, I want to put a spotlight on some of Sask. Polytech’s excellent programs. We can achieve great heights when we talk about our success,” said Sharma. “Sharing what we excel at can become a lightning rod for others to follow suit.”
Samit and Reshma Sharma, through their foundation, have donated $200,004 to Saskatchewan Polytechnic to establish an award endowment fund. Photo courtesy Sask. Polytechnic
Erin Werner, director of development at Sask. Polytech, thanked the Samit and Reshma Sharma Foundation “for its generous and enduring support” of the educational institution’s students and their pursuit of excellence.
“Excellence is also one of Sask. Polytech’s values. This gift from the Samit and Reshma Sharma Foundation
highlights this important value we have in common and will provide financial assistance to students for many years to come,” Werner added.
Sharma recognizes education’s critical role in generating new knowledge to benefit people and communities. His positive experiences in post-secondary education inspired him to support universities, colleges, polytechnics and high schools through his foundation.
The Samit and Reshma Sharma Foundation is committed to have a meaningful effect in Saskatchewan and Canada by empowering students to reach their full potential. Through its generous donation, the foundation aims to inspire students to strive for excellence and contribute to their respective fields.
Endowments play a vital role in providing ongoing financial support to students, as award endowments offer longterm financial support for student awards, Sask. Polytech said. The principal amount is invested and the earnings generated are used to fund the ongoing awards.
Anyone interested in giving to Sask. Polytech students or investing in an endowment can visit alumni.saskpolytech. ca.
Editor’s Note
During Truth and Reconciliation Week awhile back, I heard a statement on the news made by an Indigenous individual that I thought was very thoughtfully reflective.
To paraphrase as to what this person said, I believe she said something to the effect that during Truth and Reconciliation day, does what we do honour our ancestors who came before us and does this serve our descendants coming after us?
I thought it was a very poignant statement, and it made me dig deep inside myself to see how I feel about this in my own life.
I reflected on what influence my descendants and my heritage had on my life, and I can honestly say that I have been very grateful to have the roots that I was born into. I do believe that for most individuals, the ‘stock’ we come from has had a large bearing on who we are and how we reflect and respect our ancestry. There is a certain pride and integrity one upholds, when we consider that we indeed are a reflection of our past and also have a duty to relay these ideals to future generations.
I came from parents who were born to immigrants from different countries. My Ukrainian grandparents homesteaded in Saskatchewan, while my Finnish grandparents met on the boat coming to Canada and immigrated to Ontario.
Their offspring, my parents, met in the bush camps in Ontario and that is the beginning of my story. I grew up with both of those heritages intermingling to colour my world in the culture I represent and of which I am proud of.
My husband came from two different heritages, so with his heritage and mine we represent a multicultural family in one household, not to mention that our sons are married with wives of different heritages as well. Of course, this is the story for most families.
Now to reflect on my responsibility to represent my heritage to our offspring. This is something that I believe is very important, as well. We have a responsibility to give them a sense of identity so that they can be proud of their heritage too. Both of my parents were bilingual with the language of their heritage, but unfortunately in this ever-changing world and living in different communities than my relatives, English became the language of choice in our household. Therefore, I have tried in many other ways to give our sons and their families an appreciation of their heritage and culture through food and in my communicating how blessed we are to have come from the heritage we were born into, and for them to know and be proud of.
As the world turns, over the years, the country of Canada has become a melting pot of heritages that have formed a beautiful mosaic of culture for all to appreciate.
In all of this I would like to say, we need to value and appreciate others of different ethnicities and see them as a product and reflection of their heritage. We should appreciate individuals for who they are and what they have to offer, and pass on what we can of ourselves, too, to a culture that is ever-changing.
Rob Danylchuk Named October’s
Notoriously Good Neighbour
Submitted
Congratulations to Rob Danylchuk, October’s “Notorious Good Neighbour!”
The City of Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce created the program to recognize the Notoriously Friendly, Notoriously Generous and Notoriously Kind Hearted Moose Javians making a Notoriously Positive difference in our community.
Ryan Lawrence nominated Danylchuk long before it became official. He says, “He always makes time to chat…and brings the neighbourhood together (by) offering a visit.
“Rob is eager to help out, lend a hand and give advice when needed. Rob visits and helps all his neighbours and many of us appreciate having him around the neighbourhood.”
As an official “Notoriously Good Neighbour”, Danylchuk was awarded gift certificates to Tunnels of Moose Jaw, a token of appreciation for his contributions to the community.
Moose Javians can nominate their Notoriously Good Neighbour by using the Report An Issue feature on MooseJaw.ca or the free City of Moose Jaw app.
Operation Christmas Child organizer pleased to dedicate 15 years to program
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Mary Ellen Willis has been supporting Operation Christmas Child for 15 years and knows how effective the shoeboxes are in lifting the spirits of children and families in third-world countries.
“Kids are grown up now and they got a box when they were two or three (years old) and they can still remember that when they’re 25 years old,” said the program’s Moose Jaw co-ordinator.
“It’s a simple thing … . Our kids take for granted toys and stuff, but a child (in a developing country) maybe never had a real toy,” she continued. “They make themselves something out of rocks and branches and have fun that way. But … to have a real stuffy (thrills them) … .”
Many children also enjoy receiving school supplies, which are vital since they can’t attend classes without the appropriate materials, noted Willis, who has travelled overseas several times to distribute boxes. Furthermore, she once saw a child jump with excitement after receiving two toothbrushes since she had never had a personal one and had to share one at the orphanage.
Based on these experiences, the program coordinator says supporting Operation Christmas Child is a worthwhile activity.
Collection week for this year’s Operation Christmas Child occurs from Monday, Nov. 18 to Sunday, Nov. 24, with Moose Jaw Alliance Church and Victory Church as the two locations where people can drop off boxes.
Furthermore, a “packing party” will take place at Twin Lakes Ranch Ministries from Wednesday, Nov. 13 to Sunday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Volunteers are needed to pack the shoeboxes, while they don’t need to bring anything aside from their work ethic.
“In the past, we’ve packed well over 1,000 boxes, so we just need lots of hands to pack these boxes for
these kids,” Willis said, noting anyone who needs more information or a ride to the ranch can call her at 306-6302581.
During the packing party, volunteers are encouraged to stuff boxes “as God leads you,” to fill the containers as full as possible and have fun doing it. Willis noted that people will be packing school supplies, toys, clothing, hygiene items, stuffies and other items.
“It’s always a dream to get over 1,000 boxes, but it’s more important to get full boxes,” she added.
Twin Lakes Ranch has hosted the packing party for the past five years after Operation Christmas Child outgrew the room it was using at Victory Church, Willis said. The church was a great partner for years and supported the program year-round, but unloading all the supplies proved to be a challenge since volunteers needed five days to pack the shoeboxes.
That is why, she pointed out, having more hands makes the packing process go quickly.
The most important aspect of the program that Willis enjoys is the fact the shoeboxes open the door for children to learn about Jesus Christ and His life through a 12-week Vacation Bible School-like program. The program coordinator knows that the program makes a difference in children’s lives based on her trips to developing countries. Willis encouraged residents to either physically pack a box or go online and pack that way. She also encouraged people to come fill the boxes during the packing parties.
Twin Lakes Ranch Ministries is located north of the Trans-Canada Highway and about one kilometre east of the Battle Creek Adventure Park, or about 20 kilometres (15 minutes) east of Moose Jaw.
For more information on Samaritan’s Purse, visit SamaritansPurse.ca.
$1.7 million development in plaza
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
October building permits were led by a $1.7 million development of a retail/wholesale complex in the Civic Centre Plaza on Main Street.
Speculation says this is a discount grocery store.
Other major commercial permits were $230,000 for a retail outlet in the Civic Centre Plaza; $200,000 improvements to a restaurant at 345 Main Street North; $175,000 for an office building at 145 Main Street North; and $170,000 for expansion at Western Dodge.
Phone: 306.694.1322 Fax: 888.241.5291 468 High St. W., Moose
www.mjvexpress.com
Publisher: Robert Ritchie - rob@mjvexpress.com
Editor: Joan Ritchie -joan@moosejawexpress.com
Sales: Wanda Hallborg - mjexpress7@sasktel.net
David Klatt - david@moosejawexpress.com Kevin Ogle - kevin@saskpromo.com
Thank you to all the contributing writers, without your time and support, the paper would not look the same. Send your stories, events and pictures to: joan@moosejawexpress.com
Editor:
Regular Contributors:
Kreutzwieser
Value of building permits for October was $4.3 million, a 162 per cent increase over last October.
Three new dwellings were permitted worth $1.56 million, compared with one worth $241,000 last year.
Year to date 32 housing structures with 60 units worth $13.5 million have been started versus 13 dwellings worth $4 million last year.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
One person dead, two injured after single-vehicle rollover on Main Street North By MooseJawToday.com staff
One person is dead and another person is in hospital after a single-vehicle rollover occurred in the 1300 block of Main Street North after an alleged chase by police.
On Nov. 7 at around 11:49 p.m. a single vehicle crashed and rolled, causing one occupant of the vehicle to suffer fatal injuries. Two other occupants were transported to the hospital, with one remaining there with serious but non-life-threatening injuries while the other was released after being treated for minor injuries.
Due to police involvement before the collision, the Saskatchewan Serious Incident Response Team (SIRT)
has been notified and is investigating the circumstances of the injuries to the occupants. The Moose Jaw Police Service is co-operating fully with SIRT but will have no further comment regarding their investigation.
Both north and southbound lanes continue to be blocked as the Moose Jaw Police Service continues to investigate the cause of the motor vehicle collision.
Anyone with further information please contact CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-222-8477 or the Moose Jaw Police Service at 306-694-7600
JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR
l-r: Two representatives of City’s Bylaw Enforcement division, Rob Danylchuk and Rob Clarke, CEO at Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce.
Caronport renews contract with safety officer for nearly four years
The Village of Caronport has renewed a policing contract with its community safety office for almost another four years due to the “fantastic” work the special constable is doing to address crime.
The community safety office (CSO) announced on Oct. 30 that the municipality had extended the contract for an extra 40 months, which it said was a validation of its ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Caronport residents.
“We are pleased to report that during the previous contract period (from September 2021 to now), crime and other offences in our community have seen a significant decline,” Special Const. Randy Jesse said. “This positive trend reflects the effectiveness of our comprehensive safety measures and the co-operative effects of the residents and law enforcement.”
The renewed contract — for roughly $60,000 annually — will enable the CSO to continue providing essential services, including regular patrols, outreach programs and safety education workshops, he continued. The office aims to foster a secure and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
Caronport’s community safety office works closely with the RCMP and other provincial agencies to ensure that comprehensive and co-ordinated safety measures are implemented, Jesse noted. These relationships have been important
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
“This extension empowers us to enhance our efforts in building a safer Caronport for everyone.”
Ashley Chase, the Village of Caronport administrator, said the service that Jesse and the CSO have provided has “been fantastic.”
“We really enjoy having him here. It’s been great. The amount of crime has gone down a lot in Caronport … ,” she remarked. “Just the presence alone is so helpful.”
Chase appreciated how closely Jesse works with the RCMP, noting that officers from the provincial agency are rarely in the community because of the good job the special constable does. She added that the village is pleased with Jesse’s efforts to grow the program.
Municipal election
in the CSO’s efforts to maintain public safety and address concerns effectively. Furthermore, the agency is exploring opportunities to work with neighbouring municipalities to expand its reach and enhance safety initiatives, he added. These expansions will enable the office to share resources, knowledge and best practices while strengthening the safety net for all communities involved.
Some tactics the CSO uses to keep the village safe include high-visibility patrols,
community engagement, “common sense,” and modern law enforcement methods. These strategies, Jesse noted, have proven effective in creating a safer environment.
Besides policing, Jesse also helps co-ordinate the village’s Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) to ensure the community is prepared for emergencies or disasters.
“We are deeply grateful for the community’s trust and support,” he added.
When Caronport residents head to the polls on Wednesday, Nov. 13, they will be voting for two new councillors for council. Two councillor positions have already been acclaimed, while incumbent mayor Dan Buck has also been acclaimed.
The five candidates running for council include Clint Gibbons, Jay Dunbar, Lee Trudgeon, Sheila Webster and Randolph Wheaton.
Gibbons is a driver and business owner, Dunbar is an instructor, Trudgeon is an electrician, Webster is a therapist/ coach and Wheaton is retired.
The Village of Caronport has extended the policing contract with Special Const. Randy Jesse for almost four years. Here Jesse poses with community safety mascot K9 Boo, which helps with interactions in the community and schools and reduces trauma and anxiety. Photo submitted
Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Notes
The Moose Jaw Police Service will ask city council for a budget funding increase of more than seven per cent for 2025, while it also wants over $340,000 for capital upgrades.
The Board of Police Commissioners approved the police service’s operating and capital budget requests during a special meeting on Nov. 7.
In its 2025 operating budget, the police service is proposing expenses of $16,066,981 and revenues of $2,911,207, for a net operating budget request from council of $13,155,774. In comparison, those numbers in 2024 were, respectively, $14,159,410, $1,913,507 and $12,245,903.
This means the police service is asking for a net operating budget increase of 7.43 per cent.
One reason the police service’s revenues are increasing by $997,700 is because the provincial and federal governments are providing more funding for new positions, with $747,700 and $250,000, respectively.
Meanwhile, the expense categories with the largest increases are salaries (a jump of $924,157), telecommunications/911 (a rise of $231,800), employee benefits (an increase of $205,914) and computer software (a jump of $110,000).
In next year’s operating budget, the police service plans to focus on technological and communication upgrades and operational strategies and enhancements.
With the first initiative:
• In-car reporting and enhanced computer-aided dispatch (CAD) will keep officers in the community instead of at headquarters, which should increase interactions and visibility, reduce response times,
The province is forcing the Moose Jaw Police Service to pay nearly $232,000 to fund the provincial 911 service, which is adding to its 2025 budget and angering the police board chairwoman.
During a special Board of Police Commissioners’ meeting on Nov. 7 to discuss the MJPS’s proposed 2025 budget, chairwoman Crystal Froese expressed disappointment that Moose Jaw had to pay $231,800 next year to fund the provincial emergency service, which represents a two-per-cent increase to the police budget.
“Everybody has a cell phone and we all pay a fee … for the 911 service. And that should be paying for this 911 service,” she said. “But instead, the province is keeping that money and downloading that cost onto us … . And I just don’t think that’s acceptable.”
Police Chief Rick Bourassa has been working to acquire an answer about this issue, but because the province has not responded, the police service had to include that expense in its budget, which is unfair, Froese continued. The province should not be downloading this cost onto communities.
enhance investigative capacity and have more effective and efficient policing
“Annual licensing costs for this initiative have been introduced in the 2025 budget to support this initiative on an annual basis,” a police board report said.
• Enhanced risk management and prisoner safety will see the agency install bio-metric sensors in cells to monitor high-risk prisoners and alert staff to possible medical emergencies
• Upgrades to the communications centre’s technology will see new answering systems that will allow the centre to receive calls by text, picture and possible GPS locations
• Phase 1 of the body-worn cameras project will start enhancing officers’ audio-visual capabilities and evidence management by laying the groundwork for future deployment of such technology
With the second initiative, the MJPS will focus on:
• Serious crime: The MJPS and RCMP have formed an eight-person integrated crime reduction team to address issues such as guns, gangs and drugs
• Public safety: The budget will support ongoing initiatives and newly developed plans to enhance police presence in parks and public spaces; officers will patrol regularly on new e-bikes
• Recruiting strategy: The agency has developed a plan to attract candidates to fill vacancies and newly funded positions
• Professional standards: A full-time non-civilian professional standards officer is required to address the demands for timely and thorough investigations of complaints, to promote enhanced accountability and
“I am frustrated, as you can tell,” she added with a chuckle.
Bourassa said his conversations with the province were paused because of the election in October. However, with the election over, he plans to contact the new minister of policing and corrections — Moose Jaw North MLA Tim McLeod — and the deputy minister.
“I’m hopeful that that funding will not go through the police budget … (and) hopefully it won’t be our responsibility to pay for that,” he said.
There is still time for the province to remove this cost, while the police service has not yet presented its proposed budget to city council, said Froese. The $231,800 is a significant amount that could be reallocated to other areas.
Meanwhile, she highlighted some positives things about the police service, such as its Victim Services’ Branch and the eight new officers hitting the streets next year.
The MJPS will send three new members to the Saskatchewan Police College in January and six in the summer. Its full authorized strength is 72 members, but that number is currently under 60 because of retirements and departures.
“We do have a very robust recruiting strategy … . (But) we have to be competitive in how we recruit because we have to highlight everything Moose Jaw has to offer” and show how it’s a great place for families and to start a career, said Froese.
Furthermore, the police service must highlight its modernization of technology and equipment since
to regularly review and update policies; an officer is currently handling this file as a secondary task
• Community response: The agency is developing a strategy to further enhance its community presence and the response times of victim services’ staff
Furthermore, in its proposed 2025-29 capital budget, the agency wants total funding of $734,000. This includes $344,000 next year, $90,000 in two years, $95,000 in three years, $100,000 in four years and $105,000 in five years.
Next year’s proposed capital budget includes:
• $50,000 for an elevator replacement
• $10,000 for firearms range maintenance
• $149,000 for renovations to work areas
• $40,000 for security upgrades to the detention centre
• $10,000 for a sidewalk replacement
• $85,000 for “unanticipated infrastructure demands” to address an aging and deteriorating headquarters building
Deputy Chief Rick Johns said the MJPS’s budget request represented about 23 per cent of council’s operating budget, a number that has remained constant for a decade.
Meanwhile, he challenged “misconceptions” that the costs of policing “were going through the roof” and driving increases in the city’s budget. While certain expenses like technology continued to rise, the MJPS’s budget remained stable. Therefore, the 7.43-per-cent budget increase request maintained the agency’s existing resources.
Comments from police board members about the budget will appear in a second story.
“everybody wants to work at a place with the best toys and the best tools,” she added.
Commissioner Clive Tolley said he wasn’t pleased with the proposed 7.43-per-cent increase request since it was too high for his liking. However, the new council can review the proposed budget and decide to either receive it or send it back for revisions.
Meanwhile, he thought it was imperative that the police board submit this document to city administration quickly so it can work the proposed percentage increase into the overall budget document.
Capital budget
With the capital budget proposals, Deputy Chief Rick Johns said the agency estimated the costs for each project. For example, the $50,000 allocation for the elevator replacement — expected to cost $250,000 — ensures the organization has money available for the future upgrade.
Furthermore, the agency will spend $10,000 to upgrade a rifle training range it is renting in a rural area by installing safety berms.
Moreover, $149,000 will turn the second-floor classroom into office space for the new officers and members of the joint MJPS-RCMP crime reduction team.
Also, $40,000 will upgrade the detention centre with new bio-metric sensors to monitor prisoners and create better sightlines so officers can see everyone.
Furthermore, $10,000 will replace a sidewalk adjacent to the building where members park their vehicles.
Lastly, the $85,000 for “unanticipated infrastructure demands” will help modernize the MJPS building since it’s nearly 40 years old.
Bourassa said that if the agency experienced a major infrastructure problem — a broken air conditioner, for example — and didn’t have the money to fix it, it would approach the police board and have it ask council for funding.
Oh Clark’s
Moose Jaw pro-life group concerned about new ‘unfair’ federal legislation
The president of Moose Jaw’s pro-life organization is concerned that new federal legislation could negatively affect the group’s ability to support new mothers and their babies with services and household goods.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government announced on Oct. 29 that the Department of Finance planned to introduce new legislation to amend the Income Tax Act and Income Tax Regulations to protect “reproductive freedom by preventing abuse of charitable status.”
The finance department said the new law would “require registered charities that provide services, advice, or information in respect of the prevention, preservation, or termination of pregnancy” to disclose where they “do not provide specific services, including abortions or birth control.”
“Under this legislation, a registered charity that provides reproductive health services would need to disclose if, at a minimum, it does not provide the contact information for an abortion services provider and a birth control service provider,” the finance department continued.
Essentially, the bill would mandate that registered charities — such as pro-life pregnancy centres — disclose whether they offer abortion or birth control services or if they provide contact information to those who do.
The Department of Finance clarified that where “a charity fails to meet the requirements specified in the legislation, the Minister of National Revenue would be permitted to revoke its registration.”
Jean Landry, president of Moose Jaw Right to Life (MJRTL), said the proposed legislation could harm the
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organization considering its focus is providing moms, babies and families with clothing and other infant-related items.
“Are we worried at all? Absolutely. Yeah. Because it just seems like such an unfair thing when you’re helping people and then to be shut down,” she said.
If MJRTL lost its charitable tax status, that would negatively affect donors because many people appreciate receiving a tax receipt, she pointed out. However, people donate most items for free, so hopefully, it could continue distributing those materials.
The organization also engages in yearly fundraising activities, so it could acquire some money to pay expenses, but donations are always a big help, Landry noted.
“It’s just so sad … that someone would pick on
groups that are helping others. It just doesn’t make sense,” she said.
The federal government only recently introduced this proposed legislation, so the Moose Jaw pro-life group board has not yet met to discuss this further, Landry continued. However, she pointed out that there was a rumour several years ago that the federal Liberals wanted to eliminate charitable receipts for churches and pregnancy crisis centres.
“So, I guess it’s slowly coming to be that way,” she added.
Jeff Gunnarson, national president of Campaign Life Coalition (CLC), told the media that stripping pro-life charities of their charitable status jeopardized “the very existence of these crucial organizations.”
“They would be forced to close, leaving the women and babies they serve without the support they need,” he stated.
Most pro-life pregnancy centres already disclose that they “don’t commit or refer for abortions,” so this proposed legislation puts them under “unfair scrutiny and perpetuates misinformation from abortion-activist organizations, which falsely claim that they aren’t transparent,” he continued.
Gunnarson noted that with the proposed legislation, “the Liberal party is once again reaffirming that it is not the party of ‘choice’ but the party of abortion as the only choice.
“We call on opposition parties to unite to oppose this legislation,” he added. “It must not pass. Lives depend on it.”
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Since a complimentary meal will be provided, we would request hearing of your plans to attend by calling Moose Jaw Funeral Home 306.693.4550
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The Moose Jaw Right to Life Centre is in the basement of First Baptist Church on Main Street North. File photo
By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
Forcing Bulbs for Winter
One way to ensure that your winter on the prairies is more enjoyable is to pot up a selection of spring bulbs to be enjoyed inside while the temperatures drop dismally outside. This is an annual autumn chore for me that is truly worth all the effort it entails…especially when I did not get all the spring flowering bulbs planted in the garden!
However, if you too have been caught with some extra bulbs – do not fret - many of the hardy spring-blooming bulbs can be coaxed to bloom by a process called “forcing”. Tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, crocus, scilla and miniature iris are all easily convinced to bloom as long as a simple process is followed.
When choosing bulbs to “force” bigger is truly better. Ensure that large, healthy bulbs, free of blemishes are chosen. I prefer to use selections that will not grow very tall to ensure that little or no staking is required during growth. Use any clean container with good drainage for
potting up your treasures. Allow about 5 centimetres or 2 inches of soil below the bulb. The top of the bulb should be placed approximately even with the rim of the container. Use a loose potting mix that will drain easily. (Bulbs whether inside or out do not like “wet feet”.) Position the bulbs with the pointed end facing up. If you are planting tulips, place the flattened side of the bulb towards the outside of the pot. It is not necessary to add fertilizer as the nutrition needed for bulbs to grow typically comes from the bulb itself. Bulbs should be planted very closely together for forcing in order to give a more attractive display. Add enough soil to fill the pot, leaving the very tips of the bulbs exposed if you are planting daffodils or the smaller bulbs like iris, scilla or crocus. Plant tulips deep in the pot as they seem to push up in the pot quite strongly. Water thoroughly. Label the pot with the type of bulb planted and the planting date.
The next step in the process is to give these hardy bulbs a period of exposure to cold or stratification. This is an essential step to ensure your bulbs will bloom. A root cellar is ideal for this purpose, but any area that remains just above freezing works very well. If you do not have any area suitable for this cold period, a chilling period in the refrigerator will also work. Ensure you do not store
bulbs in the crisper with fruits or vegetables, as they produce ethylene gas that will damage the immature flower buds. You’ll need to maintain a temperature between 2 and 10 degrees C (35-48F) for approximately 12 to 15 weeks depending on the type of bulb planted. Each type of bulb will have different requirements for both the cooling period and the growing period. A good rule of thumb is that the growing period is shorter for the smaller, shorter bulbs. Crocus, hyacinth and daffodils all require about a 12 to 14-week chilling period. Tulips and miniature iris need about 15 weeks of chilling to get good bloom. The single, early flowering, short stature tulips will show the most success.
Once removed from the cold, place your containers in a cool, sunny location away from heating vents and drafts. When the stem tips begin to colour, they should be moved out of direct light and placed wherever they are to be displayed. Prolong the bloom period by moving pots to a cool location each night, even into the refrigerator if space permits.
Best yet, when the bulbs have finished blooming, cut off the blooming stems and move the containers to an unused basement corner to let the foliage die back naturally and “feed the bulb”. These can then be planted outside to enhance your outdoor landscape next year!
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?
City sells former Caribou Street autobody location for $100K
During one of its final executive committee meetings in October, city council awarded a property that the municipality had acquired through tax arrears to three businessmen for a value below the original asking price.
During that meeting, council awarded a tender for the sale of 246 Caribou Street West — formerly Caribou Auto Body — to Mike Chowns, Christopher Milani and David Crompton for $100,000, while it authorized the mayor and city clerk to sign the sale agreement and any related documents for the city.
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In an email, city hall said that council’s approval of this sale was required because the sale price was below the previously approved amount; any sale below market value or the pre-approved price required council’s authorization.
The municipality acquired this property as a tax title property in September 2022, although city hall was unwilling to publicly disclose the appraised value of the lot until both parties had finalized the sale agreement. Moreover, the city was unwilling to provide additional details
Report highlights efficiencies Catholic division with bus fleet in ’23-24
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Catholic school buses transported 10.7-per-cent more students during the 2023-24 school year than in 2020-21, while proficient routing methods reduced the number of daily kilometres the fleet travelled by 31.9 per cent.
According to a transportation accountability report that trustees with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division received during their recent meeting, the organization transported 1,177 students from September 2023 to February 2024 and 1,189 pupils from March 2024 to June 2024.
These numbers included students in Moose Jaw, rural and urban students in Prairie South, students in Swift Current and students in Shaunavon.
In comparison, Holy Trinity transported 1,071 students from September 2020 to February 2021 and 1,061 pupils from March 2021 to June 2021.
Therefore, by June 30 of this year, the division transported 128 more students than in June 2021, an increase
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of roughly 10.7 per cent.
Meanwhile, the average daily distance school buses travelled from September 2023 to February 2024 was 222 kilometres and 226.7 kilometres from March 2024 to June 2024.
In comparison, from September 2020 to June 2021, that average daily number was 332.8 kilometres.
Therefore, by June 30, 2024, the bus fleet travelled 106.1 kilometres fewer than in June 2021, a decrease of roughly 31.9 per cent.
“(That decrease) speaks volumes to the work of our transportation manager for efficiently routing buses to schools using the routing software we acquired a number of years ago,” CFO Curt Van Parys told the board.
“That really goes a long way to keeping our operational costs reasonable for transporting kids in Moose Jaw and within the school division as well.”
Meanwhile, buses in Moose Jaw North were full an average of 86.95 per cent of the time from September 2023 to June 2024 compared to 63.2 per cent from September 2020 to June 2021, he continued. The fact school
about the trio who bought the property until the agreement had concluded.
The city spokeswoman added that it’s unknown whether the property requires remediation, while utilities are available for the new owners.
The 2024 municipal election is Wednesday, Nov. 13.
The inaugural meeting of the new city council is Monday, Nov. 18, while the first regular meeting is Monday, Nov. 25.
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION
THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MONDAY, NOV 18.
buses were full nearly 87 per cent of the time throughout the year shows how effective the division used its fleet.
However, “the fly in the ointment” is that the average ride time in Moose Jaw jumped to 28 minutes by June 2024 compared to 24 minutes by June 2021, the CFO added. Yet, that is reasonable in terms of the other efficiencies the division is seeing.
Van Parys highlighted how Holy Trinity has a full complement of bus drivers and has been successful with recruiting and retaining them, which is atypical since other divisions province-wide are struggling to find drivers and having to reduce services.
“So we have a good relationship with our bus drivers,” he said.
Holy Trinity has also been engaging in more community-focused initiatives during the past few years, including co-hosting the Touch-a-Truck event and providing services to the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council office and Sask. Polytechnic daycare.
“We are just dipping a toe in the winter. We realize this is on our nickel, but by being a community partner with other agencies and being well-represented at community events, we think this is a reasonable use of school division resources,” the CFO remarked.
When asked about parent complaints about busing, Van Parys said the division has received a few calls but nothing significant. Conversely, when he worked in Regina, he dreaded the first month of the school year because his phone “rang off the hook with bus complaints.”
“I’ve been here three-and-a-half years and … I’ve taken one call. So, it’s materially different here than in other centres,” he added.
Is it good times?
An old-timer once told me: Governments don’t lose elections when times are good.
Times must be okay in Saskatchewan for the Saskatchewan Party to have won its fifth term in office. The party campaign was based on the government’s (perceived) record.
The campaign was a one-man affair with Premier Scott Moe almost the only spokesperson for the party.
Moe and company lost an amazing 17 seats to the NDP, still keeping a safe majority margin — 34 to 27 — in the legislature.
The NDP campaign, relentlessly pounding away at shortfalls in health care and education, brought the party closer to victory than many observers had believed.
The NDP campaign results were awesome given that earlier this year few candidates had been nominated, leaving the organization to the last minute in the election.
The NDP and supporters likely think: Next time.
Don’t be so sure. Given the results of this election a sixth Sask. Party term is probable, unless the government makes some spectacular goofs in the next four years.
While the NDP is four seats from a majority, the depth of NDP wins leaves a lot to be desired,
The party is not competitive enough outside Regina and Saskatoon. In the seats outside the two big cities, the NDP was only close in three ridings won by the Sask. Party.
The Sask. Party won Moose Jaw Wakamow by 922
votes and one Prince Albert seat by by 439 votes, losing one Prince Albert seat by 139 ballots.
The NDP was way behind in other rural seats, often by three to one.
Even in the near sweep of Regina and Saskatoon, the NDP won three seats by 850 votes or less.
The NDP can be proud of its showing, but has a long road to hoe for victory.
Moe (brought up the fact that) the NDP (had made) closures of hospitals in the 1990s, almost 30 years ago. It seemed a strange tactic to go back so far.
Rural residents don’t live the fast paced life of city dwellers, allowing memories to go past last week’s news cycle.
Rural residents worry about keeping the health care services they have, given the frequent temporary closures of service. Moe’s message resonated with them, raising the spectre of another round of hospital closures.
Attracting farm votes to a leftist party is extremely difficult when the average 1,800 acres farm land is valued north of $4 million and annual family income is near $300,000.
Farming has become big business with plenty of money. Once people accumulate assets and money they seem to have less empathy for those less fortunate, and are less willing to pay taxes for government services.
The smaller farmers who used to form the base for the NDP in the north and northeast have left with farm con-
Catholic student enrolment at highest level in 12 years, report says
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New data show that student enrolment this year in Holy Trinity Catholic School Division is at its highest level in 12 years, although the numbers are slightly below what the division projected.
As of the end of September, the division’s enrolment was 2,467 students, which is 16 students — or 0.64 per cent — below projections of 2,483, but 23 students — or 0.94 per cent — above the Sept. 30, 2023, number of 2,444, according to a report presented during the recent board meeting.
Enrolment data stretching back to 2012 show:
• 2024: 2,467
• 2023: 2,444
• 2022: 2,345
• 2021: 2,274
• 2020: 2,301
• 2019: 2,399
• 2018: 2,321
• 2017: 2,248
• 2016: 2,186
• 2015: 2,133 (lowest year)
• 2014: 2,199
• 2013: 2,189
• 2012: 2,252
Christ the King in Shaunavon is seven students (eight per cent) more than projected, Phoenix Academy is 13 youths (24.1 per cent) more than expected and École St. Margaret School is 16 students (eight per cent) more than projected, the report said.
Meanwhile, home-based students dropped by three
or 8.8 per cent, distance learning students declined from five to two or 60 per cent, Vanier Collegiate dropped by 21 youths or 4.7 per cent and St. Michael School fell by 12 students or 3.6 per cent.
The board report noted that the Ministry of Education typically adjusts operating grants in December based on the Sept. 30 enrolment.
CFO Curt Van Parys told the board that this year’s enrolment number is the highest since 2012, which is good news since it shows that the division is seeing “solid growth.” He noted that enrolment figures before 2012 could be higher, but he was unable to find that information to confirm or deny.
Meanwhile, he said there were some financial complications comparing enrolment this year with last year.
In 2023-24, enrolment included 18 unfunded pre-kindergarten spots in Swift Current, which meant the province provided funding for 2,426 students instead of 2,444 pupils.
However, because there are 41 more students overall this year than last year, and because the projections included those 18 unfunded pre-k positions, the end result is Holy Trinity should receive more net funding from the province.
“I don’t recall this ever happening in my career,” said Van Parys. “But with 2,467 (students), we are right where we should be … from a financial perspective.”
Ward Strueby, director of education, also thought it was “crazy” how the division nearly hit its projections “on the nose” even with unfunded pre-k spots. Mean-
solidation.
By Ron Walter For Moose
NDP farm support in the northeast around Yorkton was so strong opponents once called the region Red Square
The saddest part about the Saskatchewan election is the low voter turnout of 53.5 per cent.
When just over half of voters come out, something is wrong.
The Sask Party won 52.5 per cent of the turnout but that only represents 29 per cent of eligible voters.
Voter apathy must be combated with measures from more civic emphasis in schools, Sask. Elections campaigns and possibly a tax on non-voters.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION
while, he noted that Holy Trinity’s kindergarten program is booming compared to other school divisions, which are seeing declines.
The division had 185 kindergarten students at the end of September, compared to 168 such youths by Sept. 30, 2023 — a jump of 17.
Strueby added that more students are entering the division’s French immersion program, which is also exciting news.
Sarah Phipps, superintendent of learning, said Holy Trinity does not have waiting lists for its pre-kindergarten spots since most such classes are not full in September. However, they usually fill up through the year as more families come to Moose Jaw.
November is usually the first month when the division sees an increase in students because that is when employers bring in immigrants as employees, with those people also bringing their families, she continued. Furthermore, many Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs usually start in January, so the division will likely see an influx of pre-k applications in November and December since some college students have families.
Catholic division spent less on utilities last year due to mild winter
Last year’s mild winter was good news for Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, as it spent nearly $8,000 less on utility costs than it had budgeted.
Utility expenses — including electrical, heating fuel, and water and sewer — totalled $676,933 for the 2023-24 school year, according to a recent facilities accountability report.
Of that amount, the division spent $402,015 on electricity, $203,743 on heating fuel and $71,175 on water and sewer.
In comparison, it spent $684,521 in total during the 2022-23 school year on utilities, a difference of $7,588.
This dip was surprising — but positive — considering Holy Trinity also faced an increase in the carbon tax last year, CFO Curt Van Parys said during the recent board meeting. He attributed the decline in costs to a milder winter, which meant the division did not use as much natural gas as expected.
The CFO noted that utility expenses should decline once the new joint-use school opens since the division will have two fewer schools to operate.
Building usage rate
Holy Trinity had an enrolment of 2,408 students among its nine schools during the 2023-24 year, with the usage of each building — how full it is — fluctuating from 56 per cent to 123 per cent, the report said. Vanier Collegiate had the lowest usage rate while St. Agnes School had the highest.
The Ministry of Education calculates the usage rates,
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but “it’s a complicated process and formula” that is difficult to understand, said Van Parys. Typically, the ministry will add portables to schools only if they’re over 120 per cent capacity. However, Holy Trinity is limited at St. Agnes because of site restrictions.
“… so we do have a challenge with St. Agnes moving forward,” he added.
Operational budget management
The buildings department’s amended operational budget — excluding Preventative Maintenance and Renewal (PMR) funding that’s used to upgrade schools — saw expenses of $2,736,140 last year, which was $218,711 or eight per cent under budget, Van Parys said. However, what he was most pleased about was the department’s financial performance during the past four years, where, on average, it was 99.6 per cent on budget.
The only outstanding expense variation was in 202021 when the department was $503,654 over budget, which the CFO attributed to the pandemic, “pure and simple.”
PMR expenses
The department’s PMR expenses were $296,683 — or 45.2 per cent — under budget last year, which was purposeful because the division needed that money to offset the funding shortfalls in 2024-25 and 2025-26 for the École St. Margaret School minor capital program, the report said.
While the division spent 54.8 per cent of PMR funding last year, its four-year average is 70.7 per cent, the document continued.
The Ministry of Education initially approved $4 mil-
lion for the renovation project, which would have rightsized the building and updated the interior and exterior. The ministry increased the project cost to $5 million and then to $5.5 million.
The winning company for the tender was C&S Builders, which bid $6,103,846, although the total estimated cost became $6.75 million, the report said. This left an estimated shortfall of $1.25 million that Holy Trinity had to cover with PMR funding.
The completion date is November 2025.
Beside the St. Margaret project, the division is also responsible for purchasing furniture and equipment for its half of the new joint-use school, Our Lady of Hope, and providing financial support for a new playground, said Van Parys. So, it may have to make further decisions about holding back funds.
The cost to purchase furniture could be $885,000, based on 2019 data, while a new playground could be around $500,000, he noted.
The joint-school’s total cost is roughly $67 million, with Holy Trinity responsible for $29.5 million; so far, it’s paid $13,979,958.
The new school is expected to open in October 2025. Total department budget
The buildings department’s 2023-24 total operating budget was $3.2 million, although it spent roughly 84.5 per cent of that, the report said. Meanwhile, the four-year average for total expenses has been 94.5 per cent of budget.
Most PSSD schools focused on reading, relationship-building last year, report shows
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All schools in Prairie South School Division annually create a learning improvement plan (LIP) that focuses on goals around student learning and well-being that they then ensure are measurable and timely.
According to the organization’s 2023-24 school and division improvement accountability report, presented during the board’s November meeting, for the learning goal:
• 28 schools focused on reading
• 10 schools focused on writing
• 12 school focused on math
Some schools had multiple goals, which is why these numbers don’t add up to the 40 total schools in the division. Also, these numbers were the same as during the 2022-23 school year.
Meanwhile, for the student well-being goal: 21 schools focused on belonging, relationships or engagement
• Two schools focused on mental health
• Eight schools focused on other, such as credit attainment or attendance
These numbers were also the same as during the 2022-23 school year.
The report noted that while most LIPs showed
growth in 2023-24, only 31 of 81 school plans met their targeted goal — an increase of one from the previous year — while one school LIP did not report because it had multi-year goals.
“We asked them to create a SMART goal, where it’s measurable, attainable (and) reliable, and most of them set their goals a little high,” superintendent Derrick Hus chi told trustees during the meeting.
“So we are working on trying to get them (to identi fy) students’ name, strength and need to try and make sure our goals are a little bit more attainable,” he continued.
SOUTH SCHOOL DIVISION
Public school trustees have updated an important board policy to align it with their new 2024-28 strategic plan, which also aligns with the provincial education plan.
The board of education with Prairie South School Division (PSSD) adopted the updated board policy No. 1 during its November meeting.
The old board policy No. 1 lists the division’s foundational statements, including its mission and vision, core values and commitments.
The mission and vision is “Learning together for our future.”
The core values are development of the whole child, community involvement and engagement, division transparency, and a collective common-sense approach.
The policy says that Prairie South is committed to quality learning through students and families as the building blocks for learning, learning environments as placings of learning, inclusive communities are partners in learning, and “our people” are champions of learning.
Meanwhile, the updated division foundational statements focus on the organization’s “hope and dream,” its mission, its four-year vision and its values.
The “hope and dream” is that “education is valued in society and people are empowered to achieve their goals” and contributes to a thriving Saskatchewan.
The mission is that PSSD “serves students and fam-
aiming to become Moose Jaw’s next mayor instead.
“But we have seen that … half the schools reported that they didn’t quite achieve the goals they wanted to achieve this past school year.”
Staff at each school developed their LIP goals using data they acquired from their students and attempted to align the plans with the provincial education plan, the report said. Moreover, they worked to ensure that their plans were responsive to students’ needs, which meant the LIPs varied and were based on “local context.”
Schools regularly review the progress of their LIPs, analyze and evaluate the outcomes of the work plans, and modify them throughout the year. Schools may also access support from the division office for learning support
THE FIRST OPERATIONAL MEETING OF THE NEW BOARD IS ON TUESDAY, NOV. 26.
update the documents to include input from those leaders. Schools also review their plans with their superintendents four times a year and communicate the goals and results publicly at least three times a year.
The report noted that during the 2023-24 school year, the division held three SCC networking sessions in Rouleau, Gravelbourg and William Grayson in Moose Jaw, with SCC members from all schools invited to attend. The division then posted any “innovative ideas” from those gatherings on its website.
Division administration also created a Prairie South School Community Facebook page to bring people together, with 135 people joining the page.
ilies by understanding their needs and focusing on operational excellence, benefitting urban and rural communities in southern Saskatchewan.”
Furthermore, the division aims to “provide leadership and empowerment to schools through strategic direction and prioritization, resource allocation, and supports to deliver high-quality education” that is aligned with the provincial mandate.
PSSD’s four-year vision is to equip and inspire students through education “to become happy, thriving, contributing members of their communities,” with learners and team members feeling a sense of belonging in their schools. This should lead to results-based achievements that exceed the provincial average.
“As a top employer in the province, Prairie South Schools empowers leaders in the organization to make decisions in alignment with our strategy and fosters continued growth and evolution to meet the needs of our changing environment,” the vision statement adds.
The five new division values are inclusion, quality, accountability, resilience and positivity.
Meanwhile, trustees developed a three-pronged strategic direction and decision-making model.
The first area focuses on the provincial priorities of early learning, First Nations and Metis outcomes, on-time graduation rates, reading, writing and math literacy, and
sector-wide efficiencies.
The second area focuses on the board’s values, including development of the whole child, community involvement and engagement, division transparency and collective common-sense approaches.
The third area is the four division commitments.
To achieve the vision, the board’s objectives in its four-year strategic plan focus on skills and knowledge, mental health and well-being, connections and relationships, and being inclusive, safe and welcoming.
Furthermore, its operational goals include communications and public relations, capacity and catchment planning, infrastructure and buildings, and data collection and analysis.
Also, its organizational goals are building a culture of inclusion, improving recruitment and retention, building skills and capacity, and good governance.
Future board meetings
The first organizational meeting of the new board of education is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 26, which will be followed by a special board meeting to approve the audited financial statements (AFS) and annual report. Trustees must approve those two documents before Friday, Nov. 29, as per provincial regulations.
During the meeting, she noted that the board had experienced many changes and learned many new things during the past four years, from the coronavirus pandemic to late-night meetings to making tough decision to creating a new strategic plan.
“We just accomplished a lot around this table and I’m just really grateful to have come to these meetings and take part in that,” Froese said.
Trustees have “incredible leadership” at the table, while they also have opportunities to meet with school community councils (SCCs) and families and learn more about them, she continued. She also commended the division’s employees for their work.
“It doesn’t surprise me that we were in Forbes’ Top 100, really, because we worked so well together,” the outgoing trustee remarked. “I’ve enjoyed the debates we’ve had … . We’ve all done it so respectfully; we really are an example of what democracy should look like.”
The school board is an “underestimated” level of local government, especially since PSSD educates students from Craik in the north down to the Canada-United States border, Froese said. Prairie South is also a large division that has a large budget, with trustees being accountable and responsible in managing that money.
“We’re accomplishing things around this table that I think other divisions in our province could replicate,” she added. “I’ve really enjoyed this and I’m going to miss it.”
Board chairwoman Giselle Wilson thanked Froese for her time and service to PSSD. She commended the
outgoing member for being an excellent trustee who represented the City of Moose Jaw (subdivision 6) well.
“And there is no doubt in my mind, when I think of Moose Jaw, you love it,” Wilson said. “You love your city. That is for sure. And so I am thankful for what you have contributed.”
Education director Ryan Boughen also thanked the trustees for their service, especially Froese. He said he enjoyed working with her, thought she was a great trustee, and wished her well.
He also commended the other trustees for defining the division’s identity and setting direction.
“We are a very fortunate school division to have you govern our school division. We have done amazing things together,” Boughen said.
He congratulated the trustees who had been acclaimed — Robert Bachmann, John Bumbac, Wilson and Shawn Davidson — and looked forward to working with them again. He also offered best wishes to those seeking re-election, including Darcy Pryor, Brett Hagan, Patrick Boyle, Mary Jukes and Lew Young.
“You have set a really high bar and standard for how a school division should operate, so (I’m) super proud of that … ,” Boughen added. “It’s been a pleasure.”
Other candidates running in the upcoming board election include Jan Pogorzelec (née Rice), who is facing off against Pryor in subdivision 1, and Kursty Bansley, Brian Martynook, Ron Gorham, Abdul Alabi and Tenielle McLeod, who are running in subdivision 6/Moose Jaw.
Trustees with Prairie South School Division held their last board meeting of this term on Nov. 5, with some saying goodbye and all thanking each other for the past four years.
Trustee Crystal Froese is the only board member not running again in the Nov. 13 municipal election because she is
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Never too early to bake and store Christmas cakes
Despite those turned up noses when Christmas cakes are discussed, the tradition lives on in many households.
Pioneer and community cookbooks always featured a variety of recipes for homemakers to use to prepare fruit cakes especially to serve in the Christmas season. The favourites of those recipes were handed down from generation to generation and today’s young homemakers might indeed find recipes used by great grandmothers in the family recipe books.
This week’s recipes, received from a long-time friend, offer two ideas for easy, but tasty Christmas cakes.
• • •
ICELANDIC CHRISTMAS CAKE
1 cup white sugar
3/4 cup cold butter
2 eggs
2 1/2 cups flour
2 tsps. baking powder
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 tsp. lemon extract
1/2 tsp. cardamom flavoured extract
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease an 11 inch loaf pan and set aside.
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each one.
Stir in milk and flavourings. Sift together flour and baking powder and then stir into milk mixture.
Sift a little flour over the raisins and stir into batter. Mix well.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 55-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted in centre should come out clean.
Cool cake on rack in pan. Remove from pan and cover fully with a clean cloth and cool completely overnight. Store in cool, dry place for at least a week before slicing.
• • • MODERN BUT CLASSIC CHRISTMAS CAKE
1-8 oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 1/2 tsps. vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsps. cinnamon
2 1/4 cups sifted cake flour
1 1/2 tsps. baking powder
1-8 oz. jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
1 cup chopped pecans, optional
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
4 eggs 2 tbsps. milk
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, sugar, vanilla and spices.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each egg.
In a small bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Gradually add two cups of the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Add the cherries and 1/2 cup of the pecans. Fold into the batter.
Grease a 10 inch bundt or tube pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of pecans that have been dusted with 1/4 cup of flour onto the bottom of the pan. Pour batter over the pecans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Cool in pan on a wire rack for five minutes. Loosen edges and remove pan. Cool completely on wire rack.
In a small bowl, beat powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Spoon icing over cake. Garnish with chopped pecans and candied cherries.
Store in cool place in a sealed container.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net
Reflective Moments
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Did my cousins forget to tell me about the celebration?
Sometimes one just has to wonder how we ever survived in the worldwide world without the astonishing abilities of the worldwide web and associated informational platforms.
Just the other day, via a posting on a friend’s Facebook page, I learned that November is a Cousin’s Month. Prior to that I didn’t realize cousins had a month and wondered if my cousins knew but forgot to let me know, or didn’t know.
In my quest for more information, I Googled Cousin’s Month and came up instead with “National Cousins’ Day” that was celebrated on July 24. Once again, this was a celebration that escaped my attention, and obviously my cousins were also unaware, or simply didn’t want to include me in the party.
With further research on the Cousin’s Month declaration, I became aware of the fact that it might be a delightful marketing campaign waged by something called “Positive Energy Quotes” and has absolutely nothing to do with the July 24 event — or in fact any actual party.
But the message attached to this never-before-heard-of-Cousin’s Month made me think happy thoughts about at least some of the cousins in my family closet: The message says: “My cousins are so important to me. I love them and wish them all a happy, healthy, wealthy and joyful month. Big Hugs.”
That’s generic enough to send in a greeting card to cousins without making them wonder why I’m being a bit mushy toward these particular relatives.
One of my cousins would likely call my Sister to find out what’s reallly going on with me before contacting me directly with a special message of her own, or an audio clip on Facebook of an accordionist performing the Bluebell Polka.
I can visualize another cousin turning to his wife and suggesting she’d better phone to find out if I’m sick in hospital again and whether they should visit. If he did visit, he would no doubt remind me of the time he caught me coming out of the men’s bathroom (I misread the notation on the door and backed out quickly only to
find him standing at the door laughing at me.) He’s indeed a special cousin!
With the death of the entire clan of aunts and uncles, the connection to many cousins has seemed to diminish and only occasionally do I hear of events in the lives of my “first cousins.” That generation of cousins has produced the next generation and that generation has done the same so at this point I have lost track of the number of “cousins” out there who contain a bit of the same blood line. Imagine the size of the gathering if we were to have a family party. Name tags and family trees would be required.
So, who knows. Maybe this month I will hear from a few cousins or maybe the contact will be delayed and show up in a Christmas card or even an e-mailed greeting with a special message.
I’m always in the market for uplifting thoughts and sometimes come across messages worthy of being shared with friends and family, and with cousins.
For instance there’s this bit of encouragement with which to face a confusing
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
day: “Be a pineapple. Stand tall, wear a crown and stay sweet on the inside.” That message comes from Positive Energy Quotes, the wordsmith group responsible for the month devoted to cousins.
And this one: “An Aunt’s treasures are her nieces and nephews and she always keep them with her — on her mind, in her prayers and in her heart.” I like that one and just hope those nieces and nephews assume our long-term care with as much devotion.
Another: “Be strong enough to stand alone, smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.” That includes asking for directions to the ladies room!
Finally: “To the persons reading this: I’m wishing you a lovely week filled with hope, happiness, lots of smiles, delicious food and many moments to be grateful.”
And that includes being grateful for a passel of cousins.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
Sanctuary Games expands into Moose Jaw’s newest gaming business
When former Salmon Arm, B.C. residents Aaron Soltys and Anup Hazuria were travelling across the Prairies and stopping at gaming stores along the way something got their attention — a drive around Moose Jaw revealed that there was no shop fitting the description.
The couple quickly remedied that gap in the marketplace with Sanctuary Games, which opened on Oct. 5.
“We were just on a road trip,” Soltys
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“We drove around for like an hour looking for the game store,” he said.
“Moose Jaw is twice as big as Salmon Arm so we figured it had to have one, and it didn’t — so we decided to open one.”
Soltys described Sanctuary Games as being “a bit different than a normal game store” and said he and his partner like to “keep it really diverse.” The store sells not only board games but also manga, puzzles, models, art supplies, plushies,
tournaments and around 15 guests have so far been in regular attendance.
“It’s a much smaller store than we’re used to, so we just built everything on wheels so we can bring out tables in the evening,” he explained. “We close the store first and then we can host events.”
Everyone’s welcome to join and all you have to do is drop by on any given Friday.
Along with rare and hard-tofind wares including Hello Kitty desk clocks and unique Sanrio luggage bags
“that you’ll probably never see again,” Sanctuary Games is an official Adventure League store for Dungeons and Dragons. “We have the alternate cover Dungeon Master’s Guide that only got printed once and only goes to game stores,” he added.
The latest development at Sanctuary Games has been the introduction of a reward points system where adults get five per cent cash back and students gain 10 per cent back.
Sanctuary Games Moose Jaw is located at 11B River Street West and can be reached at 306-691-2025. For more information visit SanctuaryGames.ca or follow ‘Sanctuary Games Moose Jaw’ on Facebook.
Owner Aaron Soltys (left) stands with Veronica (centre) and Andrew (right) at Sanctuary Games on Nov. 2. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Two Convenient Ways To Renew: ONLINE OR PHONE
Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild aims for yet another industry first with virtual day project
The Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild has already achieved what could be an industry first by twinning with another out-of-province guild in Newfoundland last year, and now these crafty quilters are at it again with plans to expand this connection by hosting a virtual day project.
“A couple of years ago we reached out to a group (of quilters) in Newfoundland. They’re called the Pigeon Inlet Quilting Guild,” explained Ann Richey, president of the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild.
“We’re (now) having a lot of fun with our twinning group in Newfoundland.”
As far as Richey is aware, the concept of twinning with another guild from across the country is an industry first and could even be quite impactful.
“We’ve done some trading. We’ve done little gifts back and forth and a Christmas exchange, and we’re learning about each other’s communities. (This) is really important because, sadly, it’s desperately needed in Canada to help dissolve some of the divisions that have come up over the years,” she said.
“And yeah, we’re having a good time learning about each other, sharing things, and sharing each other’s websites (and social media pages).”
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Newfoundland as though everyone were together on a retreat.
“We’re going to try to do it (virtually) through Zoom. We’re still (working on) the details… (but we’ll) get together for a day of quilting. (Because) we’re virtually connected… we can share (tips and stories with) each other, joke around, and share stuff like that,” Richey said. “I think we’re going to title it ‘Quilt ‘Till You Wilt.’”
If the concept of twining isn’t new, the idea of hosting a virtual meeting between guilds over such a vast distance certainly must be. “I know it’s been done between guilds like, say, Regina and Belle Plaine, because that’s where we got (the idea) that it would be really good to do with the group from Newfoundland,” Richey said.
“We’re (organizing) little competitions… between each other,” Richey said in an earlier interview. “Maybe (they’ll) send something from their local area, and we’ll send something from our local area and just get to know each other.”
One of those friendly competitions is called “UFOs,” which stands for — contrary to common parlance — “unfinished objects.”
“A lot of times, quilters have several
The partnership involves an exchange of ideas, the formation of new friendships, and some members even share a few tips and tricks of the trade. It’s also a great way to have a little fun.
quilts or projects that they’ve kind of put on the shelf and forgotten about,” Richey explained. “So, we have a little competition with (the Pigeon Inlet quilters) to see which guild can finish the most unfinished objects. It’s not intense, but it’s fun.”
Richey admitted that she doesn’t yet have a prize in mind for the winner, but said it’s a great way to complete some unfinished projects regardless of what that reward will be.
Sometime in early 2025, the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild is planning a new virtual quilt day project with its partner in
The meeting details have yet to be ironed out, but Richey said “screeching in” is a must.
“I think this is kind of a nice little way to maybe start something new for everybody,” Richey concluded.
For more information about the Pigeon Inlet guild visit ‘Pigeon Inlet Quilters’ Guild’ on Facebook.
To learn more about the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild visit PrairieHeartsQuilters. com, email PrairieHeartsQuilters@yahoo. com, or follow ‘Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild’ on Facebook.
Prairie Hearts quilters stay busy spreading a little Christmas cheer
A record 97 members now attend regular meetings with the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild and, with regular meetings back in order for the season, guild president Ann Richey has provided a brief update on what these crafty quilters are up to.
The guild has now changed venues. Instead of meeting regularly at the Shriner’s clubhouse, members will now be meeting at the social hall of St. Andrews United Church.
These meetings have also moved to the first and third Wednesday of each month.
“St. Andrews is fairly central for everybody, and the venue is bigger,” Richey explained. “It was great when we started at the Shriner’s because… we had 45 or 50 people. But over the years we’ve grown. St. Andrews… has quite a bit more room so we can spread out… (and) have a few more demonstrations… without everything being crowded.”
Despite these changes, the guild will continue to hold its classes and quilting workshops at Vanier Collegiate as per usual.
Each fall the guild works on several new and traditional projects to give back to the community.
Hospital outreach
Richey confirmed that the guild will continue is annual pillowcase campaign for the hospital’s pediatric ward. “That’s… where we make and donate pillowcases to the kids. They can pick whichever one they like, and then they’re able to take it home with them when they leave.”
These pillowcases come in a wide assortment of colours, designs, and feature a number of cartoon and superhero characters intended for their young recipients.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Hearts Quilter’s Guild members work on Christmas placemats at Vanier Collegiate during the previous placemat campaign on Nov. 18, 2023.
To date, just over 1,800 have been donated with more on the way.
“It kind of makes staying in the hospital a lot less scary for them.”
Dialysis patients can also look forward to receiving their own quilts later this year in one of the guilds main outreach projects.
Spreading Christmas cheer
“Right now, everyone’s busy getting the placemats ready for our placemat campaign,” Richey said. “We try to provide a new placemat for Christmas dinner for people who can’t get out for Christmas.”
These mats are hand-stitched and delivered to care homes, hospitals, and Meals on Wheels recipients who may spend Christmas alone.
In last year’s campaign, the guild produced and distributed 525 placemats and hopes to “either meet or break that record again this year.” A full tally won’t be available until Dec. 4 when the campaign launches.
The guild is also planning a novel
Christmas craft for a little fun — and to help some of the guild sisters get better acquainted with modern technology.
“Everybody will bring their phone (and watch) a YouTube video,” Richey explained. Members will then hit play and follow an instructional video while they create a themed project together.
The guild is also busy preparing for its 16th biennial quilting show set to take place at the Moose Jaw Events Centre on April 21 and 22, 2025. The guild’s oldest member, Marj Nicolle, is still busily quilting and celebrated her 94th birthday this year.
Quilting Angels
“We have an outreach program for organizations that are in need of quilts to help raise funds,” Richey said about the Quilting Angels. “These ladies are in
charge of it. They’re doing a really good job and we’re really busy.”
This charitable committee oversees the guild’s outreach projects each year and — to provide a few examples — quilts have so far been distributed to Square One, the bird sanctuary in Chaplain, Sask., and for a project or two in Assiniboia, Sask.
Anyone can apply to receive support for their charitable cause. Each decision, however, is at the discretion of the Quilting Angels and their aim is to focus on causes that receive very little support otherwise.
To learn more visit PrairieHeartsQuilters.com, follow ‘Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild’ on Facebook, or email PrairieHeartsQuilters@yahoo.ca. St. Andrew’s United Church is located at 60 Athabasca Street West.
Prairie
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Several members of the Pigeon Inlet Quilters’ Guild come together for a photo back in 2022. Photo by: Pigeon Inlet Quilters’ Guild/Facebook
City of Moose Jaw to offer free transit service on election day
The City of Moose Jaw will provide free transit on Election Day on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
City transit regular routes provide service to the four polling locations — Golden Nugget Centre, Church of Our Lady, Cosmo Senior Centre, and Minto United Church — with the routes are as follows:
Sunningdale route No. 2 will provide service to polling station No. 1 at the Golden Nugget on the Exhibition Grounds. This will slightly delay stop times along
By MooseJawToday.com staff
Wood Lily Drive. Westmount route No. 4 will provide service to polling station No. 2 at Church of Our Lady. To accommodate this route, the bus will detour onto Keith Crescent and the stop at the corner of Duffield Street West and Seventh Avenue Southwest will be temporarily closed.
Athabasca East route No. 1 will provide service to polling station No. 3 at the Cosmo Senior Centre. This route will run as normal and those wishing to vote here should use the bus stop on the corner
of Fairford Street East and Third Avenue Northeast.
Athabasca West-Thatcher route No. 3 will provide service to polling station No. 4 at Minto United Church. This route will run as normal and those wishing to vote here should use the bus stop on the corner of Oxford Street West and Seventh Avenue Northwest.
See the entire Election Day Transit schedule at https://moosejaw.ca/streetsroads/transit.
Polling stations are open from 9
a.m. to 8 p.m. on Nov. 13 and the city recommends downloading and printing your voter registration form to make voting more efficient. However, do not sign the form until you arrive at the polling station.
To find the form, our interactive map that shows you where to vote, and all other 2024 election details, visit the City’s Election page at moosejaw.ca or use the election button on the free City of Moose Jaw app.
MJVotes24: Coun. Crystal Froese lays out vision for Moose Jaw in candidacy for Mayor
Editor’s Note: This article has been edited for space issues. The full article can be read online at MooseJawToday. com
Incumbent councillor Crystal Froese has announced thats he is running in the Nov. 13 municipal election to be mayor. Presented below are Froese’s answers to questions from the Moose Jaw Express/ MooseJawToday.com. Some answers have been edited for length. Why are you running for mayor/what prompted you to run?
I’m an entrepreneur with over 15 years in communications and marketing, helping businesses grow. My education is in Public Relations and Local Government Administration from the University of Regina, focusing on municipal finance and legislation. I have served as your city councillor for 8 years, school board trustee for 4 and as your Chair of the Moose Jaw Police Service Board.
I believe my education and experience have prepared me to take Moose Jaw forward as your next Mayor. I believe we have missed opportunities for growth.
As your Mayor, I will drive economic development by supporting our local business and seek out new opportunities, like value-added agriculture, that align with Moose Jaw’s strengths. I’ll create an economic advisory group to make sure City Hall is business-ready to support the growth we need for our community. What do you hope to accomplish if elected?
I aim to drive economic growth by leveraging Moose Jaw’s unique position
By Jason Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
in Saskatchewan’s agricultural landscape. Having supported the Baildon agreement to provide irrigation to family farms south of us, I’m committed to building on that success by attracting value-added agricultural businesses. With SASK Polytech’s Agriculture Diploma Program here in town, I’ll push for a Food Centre annex where entrepreneurs can create Saskatchewan-made food products. This will create new business opportunities and connect Moose Jaw’s economy to our region’s farm-to-table potential, boosting tourism and local commerce.
What would be your top area(s) of focus?
As your Mayor, my job will be to chase opportunities that actively drive economic development and bring jobs into our community. To work with our Provincial and RM Partners on a landfill location, funding for our Crescent View Sewer Station. The Mayors roll is to promote our city.
I have a plan that includes collaboration with our business community, local MLA’s to attract industry to our city. I will work in partnership with our new council to tackle our budget and ensure we live within our means. I have the experience to lead us through this next challenging budget process.
What issues do you think need to be addressed in Moose Jaw?
Public safety has been my priority. I’ve advocated for more officers, funding for Police and Crisis Team, Internet Child Exploitation Units, and more patrols in our city, we’ve implemented a Trespassing
role?
With 8 years on council, 4 years as school board trustee and serving on 10 boards and committees, I’ve taken on roles that keep me connected to our families and citizens of our city. From the Police Commission to the Youth Advisory Committee, I’ve stayed engaged with the community to bring your concerns directly to the council table.
Program, connected businesses with the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design, and created a community resource webpage.
The Province has agreed to fund 8 additional officers and we need to ensure they are working in the priority areas. We will also be looking to hire for a new Police Chief, we need people at the table with experience to ensure we choose the next chief that fits our community. Also if we receive funding from Sask Govt we will be working on the Community Safety Strategy which includes collaboration throughout our city to address issues to make Moose Jaw safer for everyone.
What is your long-term vision for the community 10 to 20 years down the road? How would you bring that to fruition?
Moose Jaw is my hometown. Moose Jaw Values are my Values! My long-term vision is a thriving Moose Jaw with robust infrastructure, a diversified economy, and a strong sense of safety and community. I would like a complete road renewal. New outdoor pool and adding new recreational facilities. I would like a vibrant downtown with River Street completed. By focusing on sustainable growth, infrastructure investment, and collaborative leadership, we can continue to make Moose Jaw a vibrant place to live for generations. Buidling strong collaboration with our School Boards, Provincial Government and local RM so that we are all working together. I think we all want the same quality of life here in a city we love. Why are you the best person for this
People know that when they come to me with issues about roads, safety, or services, or any concern I listen, I act and I follow up. I have a plan to do the work of the Mayor to promote our city and work on economic development that fits Moose Jaw. I won’t waste anytime; I will hit the ground running from day one to work for the citizens of Moose Jaw. What are your top skills/qualities/? My strengths include collaborative leadership, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a genuine commitment to public service. I bring a proactive, results-oriented approach to problem-solving, with a deep understanding of our community’s needs. I’ve had the honour of serving as your City Councillor for the past eight years, as a Prairie South School Division Trustee for four years, and Chair of the Police Commission
I’m an entrepreneur with over 15 years in communications and marketing, helping businesses grow. My education is in Public Relations and Local Government Administration from the University of Regina, focusing on municipal finance and legislation.
I’ve taken on roles that keep me connected to our families and citizens of our city, serving on 10 boards and committees. From the Police Commission to the Youth Advisory Committee, I’ve stayed engaged with the community to bring your concerns directly to the council table, people know when they call on me, I answer and follow up. I will continue to work hard for the concerns and needs of Moose Jaw. Why should people vote for you?
Moose Jaw is at a tipping point. I’ve listened to the concerns of our citizens and I’m here to take action. Our Mayor should be out from behind their desk actively doing the work of promoting our city and engaging in the concerns of our city. I have stayed connected to the needs of Moose Jaw through my experience, education and dedication.
I have an action plan , and the experience to lead. I believe we need a Mayor who will roll up her sleeves and start working from day one. Moose Jaw’s Values are My Values! I ask for your vote so we can work together for a better Moose Jaw for Everyone
Coun. Crystal Froese is running to be the next mayor of Moose Jaw in this year’s municipal election. Photo courtesy city hall
MJVotes24: James Murdock is running to be Moose Jaw’s next mayor
James Murdock is running for mayor of Moose Jaw in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I believe Moose Jaw is at a pivotal moment with the opportunity to shape its future for generations to come,” Murdock replied.
“Public service is a natural progression for me, shaped by the values of hard work, family, and community that I learned growing up in… Central Butte.
“With the unwavering support of my family, these values, my dedication to serving others, decades of business experience, and a longstanding commitment to community service have brought me to this moment. These past few years of retirement have allowed me the time and energy to focus even more on our community.
“I want to lead our city into a future we can all be proud of — a place that brings together residents and their families, businesses, and welcomes newcomers and visitors alike.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “As an individual, what you see is what you get. I am deeply devoted to my wonderful family — my wife of 24 years, Bev, and our daughters, Sydney and Jenna, with whom I’ve shared amazing memories from school events to coaching them in soccer and Moose Jaw Minor Fastball.
“I’m also grateful that my mom and two sisters have joined me in making Moose Jaw their home, further strengthening our family’s roots in the city we love. Serving others has always been a driving force in my life, whether through coaching, volunteering on boards and organizations, or co-founding River Street Promotions (RSP).
“As a candidate, I believe in leading by example and staying true to my values.
“Over the past weeks, I’ve had the privilege of meeting with residents, business owners, and organizations across Moose Jaw, listening to their hopes,
concerns, and visions for our city’s future. I hold deep respect for those who have served in our council and mayor’s office, and I am confident that I am ready to build on their work.
“I am dedicated to bringing my experience, energy, and passion to lead Moose Jaw toward a future we can all be proud of.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: With over 30 years in the funeral profession — starting in various roles, advancing into management, and ultimately founding and running my own funeral home locally for over half my career — I’ve gained valuable experience.
“I recently retired from the funeral profession and was able to refocus on something that has always been close to my heart: community. I have no preconceived notions — just a passion for building a better future for Moose Jaw and the drive to turn talk into action, digging in, and getting it done.
“My focus is on growing the economy, boosting tourism, and building a community where both families and businesses can succeed.”
Murdock hosts regular “Coffee &
Conversations” forums at rotating local businesses where residents can freely speak with him. Details are available on his Facebook page.
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “My vision for Moose Jaw is a proud, welcoming city that fosters growth, opportunity, and community. We will build a resilient economy by stimulating economic growth, attracting new business and development retaining young talent and supporting local entrepreneurs.
“By improving and modernizing our infrastructure we will ensure Moose Jaw is prepared for future growth and remains a city of opportunity.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “I will ensure accountability and transparency by improving communication, providing regular public updates, having accessible meetings, and setting measurable goals and timelines.
“We will improve response times and follow through on reported issues, ensuring residents’ voices are heard and valued. Together, we will build a proud community rooted in trust and accountability.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “My top guiding values are rooted in family, communication, teamwork, and a deep passion for community.
“My years in the funeral profession taught me the importance of active listening, transparency, and empathy — qualities that will ensure residents feel heard and understood at city hall.
“Through my dedication to our community, I have come to appreciate the power of collaboration and teamwork, knowing that real progress is achieved when we work together toward common goals.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: Murdock said his top three concerns include a strengthening of community engagement, stimulating economic growth, and prioritizing infrastructure
improvements with smart spending.
“First, we must foster better communication and collaboration between our city’s leadership, residents, businesses, and community organizations. Transparency and accountability in decision making, along with regular updates, will build trust and unity.
“Second, supporting economic growth is vital to Moose Jaw’s future. We can stimulate a thriving economy that benefits everyone by supporting local businesses and attractions, attracting new business and development, and creating an inviting environment for young talent.
“Finally, we must be smarter with our spending. We need to balance the need to ensure our roads, sidewalks, and public spaces are safe, functional, and ready for the future with the major projects we have on the horizon.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “A vote for me is a vote for change, a fresh start, and leadership without preconceived notions.
“It’s a choice to leave the past behind and focus on a brighter future for Moose Jaw. I bring a strong foundation in communication, teamwork, and passion to our city.
“My years in the funeral profession have taught me the importance of active listening, transparency, and empathy — skills that would ensure every resident feels heard and understood at city hall.
“Through my community service, I’ve learned the value of collaboration and teamwork, understanding that progress happens when we work together.
“Above all, I love the city of Moose Jaw, and I am dedicated to leading by example to bring us back to being ‘The Friendly City,’ where everyone feels welcome, connected, and proud to call our community home.”
James Murdock maintains a campaign website at MurdockForMayor.ca and a Facebook page at ‘James Murdock for Moose Jaw Mayor.’ He can be reached at James@MurdockForMayor.ca.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
MJVotes24: Jeff Goodnough is running for Moose Jaw city council
Jeff Goodnough is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I’m running for city council because I believe in Moose Jaw’s potential and want to contribute to a community that supports families, businesses, and future generations. My motivation stems from a desire to bring new energy to the council and work towards a Moose Jaw where everyone can thrive.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I am a dedicated community advocate and business entrepreneur with leadership experience and a strong commitment to positive change,” he said. “As a candidate, I bring a balance of experience and fresh perspective rooted in a practical, people-first approach to problem solving.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: Goodnough said he stays connected “Through my work with charity, health care, and people locally. I’ve engaged with diverse cultures and gained insights into
their needs. I stay connected to families and seniors (and participate) to create a positive outcome that benefits everyone.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “My vision for Moose Jaw is a respectable, diverse community that grows strong and healthy, values fair representation, affordable living, and support for family and local businesses to succeed,” Goodnough replied. “I aim to create a stronger, more transparent city government that prioritizes the needs of our residents — not just revenue and red tape — making life more affordable in Moose Jaw. Let’s get the moose movin’!”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “I believe that politics should serve the people,” he said. “My approach is to maintain open communication, actively engage with community feedback, and prioritize transparency in decision making processes.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “I am guided by integrity, respect, and a commitment to the democratic rights and freedoms of Moose Jaw’s residents. I believe in fairness, community wellbeing, and practical solutions that benefit
everyone to be healthier in every way.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: “The three top issues I aim to address are fair and equitable representation for homeowners with real solutions to lowering taxes by proper assessments, and the need for better support and revitalization incentives for local businesses. Third — and not least — is health and safety,” he said.
“Moose Jaw can have the world’s best health and wellness initiatives for everyone and be a safe and friendly city. I believe these priorities are essential to our city’s growth and success.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “People should vote for me because I’m sincerely optimistic in Moose Jaw’s future and bring both experience and a fresh perspective to the council,” Goodnough said.
“As a third generation resident, innovative businessperson, and advocate, I’m committed to working hard to represent everyone’s interests and make Moose Jaw a safe and affordable place we’re all proud to call home.
“I believe Moose Jaw has incredible potential,” he said in his concluding remarks. “By working together, we can create a positive, progressive community that attracts businesses, provides opportunities, and supports the dreams of our residents.
“My goal is to be part of a city council that builds a Moose Jaw where future generations can thrive.”
Jeff Goodnough can be reached by email at Jeff@MJVitalityTeam.ca.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Jeff Goodnough is running for a spot on Moose Jaw city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Jeff Goodnough (submitted)
James Murdock is running to be the next mayor of Moose Jaw in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: James Murdock
MJVotes24: Scott Montgomery is running for Moose Jaw city council
Scott Montgomery is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “My motivation… is a natural progression from years of coaching in the city, combined with wanting to step up and be more involved, stay connected, and contribute on a larger scale,” he said. “I want to bring the same dedication and teamwork to council that I have always applied in coaching Moose Jaw’s athletes.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “As an individual, I’m a family man with a good sense of humour. I’m known for sharing some laughs and being a joker when the time is right — but also for being able to switch gears and focus when needed,” he said. “As a coach myself, and a parent of an elite athlete, I’ve always emphasized teamwork and the commitment to details needed from everyone for the success of the team.
“This mindset will be critical for the new city council and mayor. As a candidate, I’ll bring this collaborative spirit ensuring we strive to work together for the benefit of the community.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “I stay connected to the community every day,” Montgomery said. “Those that know me would say I like to chat. I aways enjoy the interactions (I have) with locals and the rural people that come into the Co-op Agro and teach me a thing or two daily (as I learn) about their experiences and concerns.
“I have a long history as a coach here in town, so attending sporting events and just being out in the community helps me stay connected. People have never been
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
afraid to tell me what’s going on and what needs to be fixed in their opinions, but it’s always good for a chat and a laugh.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “My vision… includes a strong emphasis on safety and bringing back that community pride,” Montgomery said. “We have incredible and unique businesses and buildings throughout Moose Jaw and in our downtown core, and we need to support them and listen to their concerns.
“We need to create a mentality that Moose Jaw is going to be the place that’s open for business, encourages growth and expansion, and fosters collaboration between all parties,” he said. “We need less red tape and holdups, and more practical solutions inside the city.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “It’s important for council to prioritize regular communication with residents,” he said. “In today’s world, social media, newsletters, and other various channels of communication are effective.
“Encouraging a good ol’ fashioned open door policy allowing residents to share their concerns and ideas directly, or (via) coffee with a councillor isn’t going to hurt. By being transparent in decision making and ensuring responsible budgeting and spending, we can build and foster trust with the community.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “My top guiding values are deeply rooted in community, commitment, and commonsense,” he said.
“I believe in fostering a strong sense of community where everyone feels safe, connected, and involved. Commitment is dedication to council duties and responsibilities, as well as working diligently with the citizens on a daily
level. Everyone will know when they talk to me that I am truly listening to them and not just hearing them.
“Commonsense is about practical, straightforward decision making ensuring our actions benefit the entire community to the best of our ability.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: “Firstly, (I would like to address) the challenges in our downtown areas such as vagrancy, crime, loitering, etc., which impact both businesses and residents. I believe we need to find compassionate and effective solutions to support those in need while ensuring the safety of our residents…
“Secondly, we need to cut the red tape and timely holdups that hinder business growth and development.
“Lastly, the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) taxation
system needs reform or elimination to ensure fair taxation practices are utilized in the city. By addressing these concerns, we can create a more prosperous and welcoming community for us all.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I bring a blend of life experience, dedication, and commonsense to the table,” Montgomery replied. “With over 30 years of experience coaching in Moose Jaw — from girls fastball, minor boys baseball, AAA Canucks, and Moose Jaw Minor Football — I understand and preach the principles of teamwork.
“I believe in giving back to our community and I’m committed to addressing our city’s most pressing issues — from revitalizing downtown to reforming taxation to encouraging growth and development. My approach is grounded in practical solutions and a genuine desire to make Moose Jaw an even better place to live.
“If we can create and form a (municipal government) that has a new positive outlook on the city, is focused on addressing its needs and concerns, and can show residents that they are working hard to move forward and grow, then it will create a ripple effect in the city,” he said in his concluding remarks.
“Moose Jaw always steps up; Moose Jaw is full of so many people that want to see it be great and are willing to help — it’s inevitable with the right leadership. Leaders lead from the front. I want to be on that team.
“Good luck to all the candidates,” Montgomery concluded.
Scott Montgomery can be reached by email at Montgomery4Council2024@ gmail.com
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
MJVotes24: Perry Haug is running for a spot on city council
Perry Haug announced that he will be running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I am motivated by a deep sense of responsibility to make a positive impact on our community,” Haug replied. “I’m driven by a desire to address challenges deep within our city hall starting with the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA), road construction, and infrastructure for future developers. (I also want to see investment) into affordable housing.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “Growing up in Moose Jaw and being a family man (and) a part of our local church, I appreciate the strong sense of community and slower pace of life that smaller towns provide,” he said. “(I was) Taught the value of relationships, connection, and supporting one another, whether it’s through helping hands at church events, family gatherings, or just being a part of people’s lives.
“As a candidate, my strengths lie in my ability to process and provide information without bias and offer suggestions or solutions based on previous work experience and public experience. (This is supported by) having businesses and property in (Moose Jaw) (and) learning new concepts across many fields. I am reliable, adaptable, and ready to serve you, the public, on council.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to
the community?”
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A: Haug said that he fosters a strong sense of community connection by “Attending functions of the city, Sidewalk Days, the hometown fair,” as well as “supporting local garage sales, fireworks, hockey games and ball games.” Haug also forms a connection through mentoring at his local church.
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “(My vision is) To stimulate better economic growth,” he said. “Moose Jaw could focus on attracting new businesses (such as, in one example area), tourism. Supporting local entrepreneurs with grants or tax incentives for startups could also create jobs and foster innovation.
“Most of all, I would like to contend with SAMA (regarding) the taxes in our city, (as well as) improving infrastructure and road construction.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: Haug said that he will achieve this by “open communication.” “I would regularly share updates on decisions, ongoing projects, and any changes in the policy or direction (of city council). This could include clear written reports, public meetings, or accessible online platforms where residents can track progress and outcomes.
“Transparency means listening to the people I represent. I would maintain open channels for feedback — whether through town hall meetings, online forums, or direct contact — ensuring that community concerns are heard and addressed,” he said.
“(I) Would ensure that all decisions made are explained will full content outlining the reasoning behind actions taken, the expected impacts, and any alternatives (we) considered.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “I prioritize clear communication to ensure that ideas and information are easily understood, avoiding confusion wherever possible. I will strive to consider the needs and perspectives of those I interact with, offering support and responding with respect, compassion, and understanding.”
Q: “What would you say are the
top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: Haug said three of his leading concerns include infrastructure costs and related taxation, addressing SAMA, and ensuring affordable housing options.
“Infrastructure costs and taxes (to) build and maintain roads require substantial public investment, which is often funded through local taxes,” Haug replied. “Prioritizing expenses on road construction can be beneficial to the public most (noticeably in) high traffic areas.
“SAMA needs to be addressed in Moose Jaw. Business tax, along with homeowner taxes, is also high. (I will) Revisit SAMA policies (and) investigate how and why they are so off from other estimators.
“Affordable housing for young people and elderly tax incentives to offer tax breaks or credits for developers who build affordable housing, such as lowincome housing tax credits (is a priority).”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I would encourage people to vote for me because my approach is rooted in thoughtfully based decisions.
“I am deeply committed to listening to the needs of the community and working collaboratively to find practical solutions. I believe in transparency, integrity, and accountability, ensuring that every decision I make is in the best interest of the people I represent,” he concluded.
Perry Haug can be reached by email at Perry@MJVitalityTeam.ca.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Scott Montgomery is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Scott Montgomery (submitted)
Perry Haug is running for a spot on Moose Jaw city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Perry Haug (submitted)
MJVotes24: Ashlea Street is running for Moose Jaw city council
Ashlea Street announced that she’ll be running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following her announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I am motivated by this city and the people, (as well as) my family, my kids, and for so many more reasons,” Street replied. “This city has so much potential (and) we are missing out.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I am a loyal person with ethics and morals who works hard and holds myself accountable,” Street said. “I am very passionate, but those who know me (know that) I wear my heart on my sleeve and when I commit to something I am all in!
“I am also very optimistic and always looking to find solutions. My mind needs to be stimulated and I like to be informed, so I spend my time gaining knowledge as I believe knowledge is power and this is what has prepared me for life — which is something I am able to provide the city if elected.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “I stay connected through recreation, family, my kids, my business, and sponsoring and supporting many organizations throughout the community. We always support local. We live and pay taxes in this community and want to stay in this community for generations to come.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A: “I would describe my vision as providing solutions, working together, building relations, and growing the economy for better jobs, housing, and business,” she replied. “I would like to see Moose Jaw catch up to other cities on the maintenance side to show we have stability.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “I have morals, integrity, and values,” she said. “I believe this ensures the citizens that they are voting for a candidate that holds the true values for what a city councillor should be. I will hold myself and those (around me) accountable and have transparency.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: Street said that her top guiding
values include loyalty, accountability, integrity, transparency, and building relationships through cooperation. She values hard work, commitment, the pursuit of knowledge, and follows a strong sense of ethics in her decision-making process.
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: Street said her top three concerns include better support for local businesses, reviewing property assessments, and managing the city budget better.
“We need to be open for business and build new relationships, as well as maintaining the relationships we already have.
“We need to look at digging into property assessments along with the processes and procedures of how they are being done for the betterment of our
citizens.
“We need to learn to budget and manage the budget properly and spend and cut (as required) for the (betterment) of this city, (in order) to gain revenue.
“Citizens need to have an understanding. They need to see where their property taxes are being spent; when they see this they (develop) trust. We need to make the city more accessible for the citizens — this is called transparency.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I don’t like to waste time or money, and I like to get to work to get things done. I am about improving this city and I am about all citizens of this city. I will work for this city,” she replied.
“Now, I am not saying I will always do things the right way necessarily, but I will own it, and will always do my very best to work towards making the right decisions that are brought forth by the citizens of this city.”
Street concluded with a message for residents to consider ahead of the upcoming election.
“We can all have ideas, but we also have to know that the citizens are relying on us as candidates to make change for the better and to make them proud,” she said. “To simplify it, we need to show citizens (that) their money is being well spent and that they are seeing change.”
Ashlea Street maintains a Facebook campaign page at ‘Ashlea Street for City Council,’ as well as a website at Beacons. ai/AshleaStreet. She can be reached at AshleaForCityCouncil@gmail.com
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
MJVotes24: Steven White is running for Moose Jaw city council
Steven White is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “My family,” White replied. “They are my world and I want to make sure they have a city that is safe, clean, and thriving so that when (my children) finish university this is a place they want to call home.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I am an extremely hardworking and passionate individual,” he said. “I don’t believe in taking ‘No’ for an answer just because it’s the easy way out. If we need a solution to a problem, let’s dig in and find out the best one.
“My family always comes first and I’ve travelled this country to make sure my daughters get to their events and can perform at the highest levels.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “I try to be involved in as many of my family’s activities as possible. I’m coach of the St. Agnes girls basketball team, and I attend all the volleyball, basketball, and archery events that I possibly can. I’m involved with the Filipino community and recently sat on two City of Moose Jaw advisory boards as well as the St. Agness SCC for over a decade,” White said.
“I’m one of those people who smiles and talks to anyone…,” he added.
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “My vision for the city is to see a vibrant, safe, and welcoming community that attracts business, tourists, and families that not only want to visit, but also to stay and grow this community,” White said. “We have long been The Friendly City and we need to bring back that ‘feel’ to the community again.”
Q: “How will you ensure
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “Accountability will be met by starting with city council holding the city employees accountable for their job titles. First and foremost, we are employed and elected to serve the citizens of Moose Jaw. Some seemed to forget that.
“There is no excuse to hear stories of how citizens’ (concerns) have fallen on deaf ears at city hall when they needed our help the most. (I’ve seen it take) two months to answer emails, (I’ve heard residents) being told they can’t speak to council without council knowing about their issue, and (have seen) work being done in front of their businesses without consultation to find a way to make sure customers can still get to their business.
“These things are unacceptable; the culture needs to change.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: White said his top guiding values are family, morality, hard work, and commonsense.
“My guidance will always come back to how something will affect my family. Is it morally the right thing to do? Does it make sense to do this? Then, nothing else matters because I will work as hard as necessary to accomplish the goal.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: White said the top three issues he sees are crime, infrastructure, and growth.
“If we don’t fix the first two, we will never get the last one to fall in place,” he explained.
“If tourists and businesses come to our city and see that it is unsafe and then (they) leave with $1,000 auto repair bills, no one will want to come back. Tourism Moose Jaw has done an amazing job attracting people to our city; we now must put into place the things that make (visitors) want to return and, more importantly, stay.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I believe people should vote for
me because they will always get an honest answer to their questions,” White replied.
“I’m not afraid to tackle the tough issues (and will not) back away from finding a solution. If you want to see change going forward and someone who will listen to
your issues, I’m the right person for the job.”
In his concluding remarks, White referenced the recent mayoral forum. “As was stated at the mayoral forum… with five people running for mayor and 24 for council, the citizens have stated they are looking for change. Between now and Nov. 13, citizens have the opportunity to make that change. The power is in their hands.
“I believe all hope is not lost and we can turn this ship around before it’s too late — but we need to act now. I am truly honoured and thankful for all the words of support I have received and look forward to serving the community as one of your next city councillors. Thank you,” White concluded.
Steven White can be reached at ReptiMania@yahoo.com or by phone at 306-690-7136. You can follow his campaign on Facebook at ‘Steven J. White for Moose Jaw City Council.’
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Steven White is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Steven White (submitted)
Ashlea Street is running for a spot on Moose Jaw city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Ashlea Street/Facebook
MJVotes24: Jana Horsnall is running for city council in upcoming civic election
Jana Horsnall announced that she’s running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following her announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “Growing up on a farm near Moose Jaw and raising my family there, I’ve always felt a strong connection to our community. This city has given me so much and, as I approach retirement, I feel a deep sense of responsibility to give back.
“I want to help build a future where Moose Jaw is not only a place to live but a place to thrive — one that prioritizes safety, economic growth, and inclusivity.
“My 35-year career in personal development and mental health has taught me the importance of supporting people from all walks of life, and I want to bring that same commitment to city council.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I’m someone with a strong moral foundation guided by values, compassion, and truth. I believe in doing the right thing — not just in words, but in action. My empathy allows me to truly listen and understand others, making me approachable and dedicated to supporting those around me. My passion drives me to pursue meaningful change, especially when it means standing up for others and addressing difficult issues.
“I’m not one to tolerate injustice or allow others to be undermined. I’m willing to stand up against unfairness and advocate for those who might feel unheard. This strength has always been at the core of who I am, both in my career and in my personal life.
“As a candidate, (this means) that I will empower our community, work hard to make sure everyone feels valued, and fight for the changes that will make Moose Jaw a better, safer place for all….
“I’m committed to strengthening the safety of our neighbourhoods, revitalizing our downtown so it can thrive as both a
business hub and a family-friendly space, and working to ensure everyone has the resources and support they need to succeed.
“I’ve built my career on empowering others and believe strongly in the potential of every individual and community. As a candidate, I’m determined, results-driven, and committed to implementing practical solutions that address the needs of Moose Jaw’s residents. I want to bring fresh ideas backed by a wealth of experience to help shape a Moose Jaw that works for everyone.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “I stay connected to Moose Jaw through both personal and professional avenues. Operating my wellness business and working directly with local organizations has kept me close to the pulse of Moose Jaw’s needs.
“Additionally, I actively engage with people to understand their experiences, perspectives, and hopes for the future. This direct involvement in the community helps me stay grounded and informed, ensuring that I’m always listening to the people I hope to serve.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “My vision is for Moose Jaw to be a vibrant, safe, and business-friendly city that offers opportunities for all ages. I want to see our local economy grow through support for entrepreneurs, improved infrastructure, and streamlined regulations.
“At the same time, I envision Moose Jaw as a place where families, seniors, and youth feel safe and supported with access to quality recreational facilities and cultural spaces. I also believe in fostering a community that addresses homelessness, addiction, and mental health with compassion and actionable solutions.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “I believe in open communication, frequent updates, and active listening. I would make it a priority to keep residents informed about council decisions and the reasons behind them. By creating opportunities for public input and keeping regular office hours for discussions, I aim to be accessible and responsive.
“Additionally, I’m committed to measuring outcomes — especially on key initiatives — to ensure that progress is both visible and meaningful.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “My guiding vales are compassion, integrity, and community.
“I believe in treating everyone with respect and empathy, advocating for what’s right, and working collaboratively toward shared goals. These values have guided my work in personal development and mental health and they will continue to drive me as a public servant dedicated to making Moose Jaw a stronger, safer, and more inclusive community.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: Horsnall said her top three issues include business development and retention, public safety and community wellness, and the revitalization of recreational and cultural infrastructure.
“I want to create a more supportive environment for local entrepreneurs by simplifying regulations, improving infrastructure, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for business growth.
“Addressing homelessness, addiction, and mental health is essential for fostering a safe, supportive community. I believe in holistic, action-oriented solutions that provide affordable housing, treatments, and job opportunities.
“Enhancing Moose Jaw’s recreational facilities, cultural spaces, and natural assets like Crescent Park and the Wakamow Valley will enrich residents’ lives and attract visitors.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “People should vote for me because I bring a clear, actionable vision for Moose Jaw’s future and a strong commitment to implementing real solutions. My career has been dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering supportive communities, and I want to use that experience to create a thriving, inclusive city for all.
“I am committed to listening to residents’ needs and working with fellow council members to address critical issues with compassion and determination. My priority is to move beyond meetings and take concrete action that makes Moose Jaw safer, more vibrant, and economically sound.
“Thank you for considering me as a candidate for city council,” she said in her concluding remarks.
“I am committed to building a Moose Jaw where every resident feels valued, supported, and hopeful for the future. I look forward to working with our community to bring meaningful change and I believe that, together, we can make Moose Jaw an even better place to call home.”
Jana Horsnall can be reached at Jana@MJVitalityTeam.ca.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
CMJVotes24: Dave Stevenson is running for city council
Dave Stevenson is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following his announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I am retiring on Nov. 8 and a number of individuals have encouraged me over a number of years to put my name forward,” Stevenson replied. “I also have not been pleased with some things that our current council has done in the past.
“Now that I will have time to dedicate the time and effort needed to represent the citizens of Moose Jaw, I decided to put my name in the race.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I am honest and believe that I have a lot of integrity. I believe in being transparent. I stand up for what my principles are and believe that everyone deserves a chance,” he said. “I would say that I am — and always have been — a person that believes in helping everyone that I can no matter where you are from. Pay it forward is what I believe in.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “I attend many functions in the community; I have been a very active member of the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club. I volunteer where I can with different
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
groups, as well, I am a member of the South Hill Community Association.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “I would like to see it be more inclusive (and) promote business (better). (The city) definitely need(s) to have a long term sustainable plan for infrastructure (and to) ensure there is accountability on how we spend tax dollars.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “I believe that we can ensure accountability by making sure that we have all the information needed to (inform the) citizens of Moose Jaw as we need to involve stakeholders on certain issues that affect them.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: “My top guiding values have to be honesty, integrity, treating everyone with dignity and respect, listening before you speak, working to find solutions, and (not being) part of the problem.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: “(First is a) long term plan for infrastructure and (looking) at this inhouse. (We should) not always contract out projects that don’t need to be.
“(Second is to) work with all those involved in addressing and finding
solutions that will work to address the homelessness issue we face in this city.
“(Third is to) make sure that we do things in the city that make sense, and will make living in Moose Jaw (better) for (its residents) and helps our city grow as a community.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I hope people will vote for me as I am honest, have integrity, and am a hard worker,” Stevenson said. “I worked with all types of people through my work as a national rep for CUPE. I have no hidden agenda as I believe that I have put my name forward for all the right reasons, which is to represent all people who live in Moose Jaw. I genuinely believe that I can make a difference in improving (their) lives…. (so that) people can be as proud of the City of Moose Jaw as I am.
“I have been approached by many people over the years to put my name forward to run for either a councillor position or for mayor and now I believe that I am ready to represent the citizens of our beautiful city.
“With my upcoming retirement on Nov. 8 I will have the time to dedicate and represent Moose Jaw should the people… put their trust in me to represent all walks of life. I wish all other candidates well in their campaigns and hopefully on Nov. 13 the City of Moose Jaw will elect me to represent them proudly,” he concluded. Dave Stevenson can be reached by email at DaveForCouncil2024@gmail. com or by phone at 306-513-7887.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Jana Horsnall is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Jana Horsnall (submitted)
Dave Stevenson is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Dave Stevenson (submitted)
MJVotes24: Michelle Christie is running for a spot on city council
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Michelle Christie is running for city council in the upcoming civic election. Following her announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I’m running because I feel like there are a lot of issues that aren’t being addressed, and I feel like there’s a need for better communication… regarding infrastructure, economic development, (and safety),” Christie said.
“One critical reason why I’m running is safety,” she continued. Christie brought up a recent disturbing encounter while shopping at a local drugstore. There, a homeless individual — presumably under the influence — placed his hands on her car in an aggressive manner and demanded $10. When she asked him to step back and said he was scaring her one-year-old and three-year-old children who were in the back seat he refused.
“I felt like this incident was emblematic of the dramatic decline that our city has experienced, and I just want to restore pride in Moose Jaw and make it a safe place for families and everyone to live.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I would describe myself as being straightforward and I like to ask a lot of questions,” she replied. “I’m (also) a strong believer in doing the job right and doing your homework.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “I think there’s a lot of potential for growth and opportunity in Moose Jaw, and I think it’s time to capitalize on it.”
Christie described Main Street and Moose Jaw’s tourism sector as “incredible” and said the city needs to focus on developing these assets further. “If we can aggressively look for industry to come (to the southeast industrial park in particular), it’s going to create jobs… It’s going to bring families here. They’re going to buy houses.
“Rather than waiting for the answers to come to us, we need to do the work to get it.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: “Accountability and transparency obviously go hand in hand. I think providing clear information about council’s decision making process and being clear about budgets, policies, and bylaws is very important,” she said. One step in this direction is the creation of a town hall forum.
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: Christie said her top values are honesty and, as a mother of two small children, family. “Taking care of these two (children) is very important to me and (so is) feeling that families are supported (and knowing that you can) have… nice, clean parks, playgrounds and… sports facilities
A: Christie has volunteered on boards including educational boards, the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) of Saskatchewan’s board, and said she’s experienced as a treasurer. She acknowledged that residents have a lot of questions and these need to be answered by city council. The best way to do this, she suggested, is through the creation of a town hall community forum supported by a strong social media presence.
for the kids so they can have nice, happy childhood memories.
“I believe that, if you can be honest, there’s always going to be a good outcome,” she continued. “When you try and hide (something), everything festers. I really feel that speaking the truth — even when it’s difficult — (will always yield) a solution at the end. So, I would like to build the community based on trust and respect.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: Christie said her first issue is safety. “We need to make sure that people feel safe, can walk to their cars, can go use the park, and that people can go to the store without having people on their cars,” she said in reference to her own recent experience.
Her third concern is the Crescent View Wastewater Lift Station (CVWLS). “Council has talked about it being $66 million and (they said or implied that) it could stop working at any time. If this is something that could put the city in a crisis mode, I don’t understand why they haven’t made that a priority.” For reference, CVWLS is the bottleneck for all 12 lift stations (plus itself) around Moose Jaw and carries 100 per cent of the city’s sewage to the wastewater treatment plant.
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “I have 11 years of experience as a successful operations manager at Moose Jaw RV and Marine,” she said. “That’s backed with a business administration degree.
“I’m strongly committed to transparency and having information out to the public. I think improving safety and cleaning up downtown Main Street, Crescent Park, and supporting our local businesses is very important. (I want to help restore) pride in Moose Jaw.
“I just really love living in Moose Jaw,” she concluded. “I think that we have so much opportunity and I just want to do the best with what we have.”
You can reach Christie by email at MichelleChristieMooseJaw@gmail.com.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Her second concern is clarity regarding Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA). “They (council) have to get to the bottom of whether SAMA was renewed or not. These property assessments need to be clarified and that needs to be communicated to the taxpayers… to let them know what has happened, because we need to have fair, transparent assessments.”
MJVotes24: Tracy Zimmerman is running for Moose Jaw city council
Tracy Zimmerman is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Following her announcement, the Moose Jaw Express reached out with a few questions but, as Zimmerman wasn’t able to reply before press deadline, her answers have been included from responses she posted officially as part of her campaign to ensure fair and balanced coverage. These were originally posted on MJVitality.ca.
Q: “What motivated you to enter public service?”
A: “I’m Tracy Zimmerman, a passionate advocate for Moose Jaw (who is) dedicated to building a city where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
“My campaign is rooted in creating a Moose Jaw where every resident feels safe, supported, and empowered.
“My campaign focuses on practical solutions for mental health, homelessness, youth empowerment, senior support, and economic development. I’m ready to collaborate with community leaders to bring meaningful change to Moose Jaw.”
Q: “How would you describe yourself as both an individual and as a candidate?”
A: “I am a compassionate, dedicated resident of Moose Jaw (who is) running for city council to amplify the voices of our community and ensure that no one is left behind.
“From mental health advocacy to supporting individuals in recovery, I’ve devoted my life to helping others. My journey as a caregiver, mother, and community supporter has shaped my commitment to making Moose Jaw a more inclusive and supportive place.”
Q: “How do you stay connected to the community?”
A: “Since moving here in 2023, I’ve been embraced by this vibrant community, and I’m eager to give back. With a background in community mental health, I bring insights to address our city’s pressing social issues, and as a mother, former foster parent, and adoptive parent, I understand the importance of creating supportive systems for all.”
Q: “How would you describe your vision for the city?”
A: “I envision a Moose Jaw where everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, has the resources and opportunities to succeed. Our city has the potential to lead with compassionate, effective solutions for homelessness, addiction, and mental health, creating a community where everyone can live with dignity.
“Supporting local businesses, investing in community facilities, and enhancing public spaces like Crescent Park are essential to building a strong, inclusive Moose Jaw.
“I’m also passionate about revitalizing our downtown area, making Moose Jaw a more vibrant and appealing destination for all.”
Q: “How will you ensure accountability and transparency in your role?”
A: As a mother with a background in community mental health who has devoted her life to helping others, Zimmerman understands the value of both accountability and transparency in her role.
“From mental health advocacy
to supporting individuals in recovery, I’ve devoted my life to helping others. My journey as a caregiver, mother, and community supporter has shaped my commitment to making Moose Jaw a more inclusive and supportive place.”
Q: “What are your top guiding values?”
A: Zimmerman’s top guiding values include compassion, dignity, family, and ensuring nobody is left behind. She seeks to allow residents to feel valued and heard, businesses to feel supported, and to foster sustainable growth within the community.
“For over 12 years, I’ve also served as a live-in caregiver for my aging mother, which has deepened my commitment to senior support and reinforced my dedication to helping vulnerable
populations. My experience as a small business owner for over 17 years has given me valuable insights into the needs of local businesses, and I’m committed to helping them thrive.”
Q: “What would you say are the top three issues or concerns that you would like to address?”
A: According to her post on MJVitality.ca, Zimmerman’s top concerns are ensuring that the community feels safe and empowered, championing mental health and homelessness supports, and advocating for business growth.
“I’m committed to working with local organizations, listening to residents’ concerns, and implementing solutions that meet our community’s needs. By championing mental health support, addressing homelessness compassionately, and advocating for local business growth, I believe we can create a resilient, thriving Moose Jaw.”
Q: “In your own words, why should people vote for you?”
A: “Vote for me because I bring both a fresh perspective and a deep commitment to making Moose Jaw a place where all residents feel valued and heard. I am ready to work collaboratively with council members and community leaders to drive positive change, tackle pressing issues, and foster sustainable growth.
“Together, we can make Moose Jaw an even better place to call home.”
Tracy Zimmerman can be reached at Tracy@MJVitalityTeam.ca.
The upcoming civic election will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 13.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Tracy Zimmerman is running for a spot on city council in the upcoming civic election. Photo by: Tracy Zimmerman/ MJVitality.ca
The Canadian farmer mentioned on a gravestone in Sussex, U.K.
Editor’s note: Historian Kevin Gordon in Eastbourne, Sussex, U.K. has allowed the Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday. com to run this article he wrote about a Canadian soldier from the First World War. This article has been slightly edited.
David James McCurdy was born in Winnipeg on Dec. 5, 1886. His father was a farmer and he became a farmer too.
His name is recorded on two graves — one in Canada and another thousands of miles away in Sussex.
On Aug. 14, 1914, soon after the First World War was declared, David enrolled in the Canadian Expeditionary Force at Swift Current and became a private, No. 51885, in Lord Strathcona’s Horse (The Royal Canadians). This regiment was formed by Donald Smith, (Lord Strathcona), a Scottish-born Canadian businessman, and it was the last regiment in the British Empire to be raised by a private individual.
David sailed for England on Oct. 3, 1914, and on May 4, 1915 had received enough training to be sent to the trenches of northern France. He was not to be on the front line for long.
On June 21, 1915 David was in the trenches near Givenchy-en-Gohelle when he was struck in the left thigh by a rifle bullet, which broke his femur and left a large ‘exit wound.’ He was evacuated to a dressing station in Boulogne where he
By Kevin Gordon
The grave of Martha and her son at Ocklynge Cemetery, Eastbourne, U.K. David McCurdy’s name is also on the gravestone since he was Martha’s husband. Photo courtesy Kevin Gordon
stayed for three days before crossing the channel to Newhaven, Sussex.
He was then taken to London and admitted to the King George Hospital, Stamford Street (near London Bridge Station) on June 27. On Aug. 1, he received a ‘radiogram examination’ (X-ray) and it was found that he had fragments of metal around his fracture.
He slowly recovered and on Dec. 1, 1915, Dr A.H.Todd wrote on his record, ‘I am of the opinion that this man’s femur is soundly united and that he is fit to ride a horse again.’ He was then discharged to the Canadian Convalescent Hospital in Bromley, Kent.
During 1916 David was based at Shorncliffe Barracks at Folkestone. According to his army record he was not transferred to Sussex (St Leonards on Sea) until July 3, 1917. Later that month, on July 23, he was transferred again, this time to the Canadian Military Hospital at All Saints, Meads, Eastbourne.
David’s military record states that from Jan. 1, 1917 his wife was Martha Mirian and she was living at 25 Silverland Road, Silverhill, St Leonards on Sea. This is probably the date of their marriage although there is no record of this. It’s likely that her maiden name was Williams — this name is mentioned in David’s army records but crossed out.
Shortly afterwards the family (or at least Martha) were in Montgomery, Wales.
On July 26, 1917 David and Martha had a son, Jack Williams McCurdy (note his middle name). He was christened at Forden, near Welshpool, Montgomery, Wales on Oct. 7, 1917. David’s occupation is shown as a ‘soldier.’ It is probable that Martha was Welsh and Montgomery was her home town.
Martha returned to Eastbourne, but on March 23, 1918 little Jack died aged just seven months. Two weeks later, on April
7, 1918, Martha died age 27 years. It is probable that both died of influenza. They were buried at Ocklynge Cemetery and a large gravestone was erected, which can still be seen today
On Feb. 1, 1919 William David McCurdy was born. The father was David James (now based at Cooden Camp) but the mother is shown as ‘Rosa Lilian.’ The baby was baptized a month later at St Andrews (Norway) Church in Seaside, Eastbourne and the couple are shown as living at 45 Sidley Road.
On June 8, 1919, David married again, not to Rosa but a girl called Elizabeth who lived at 16 Rutland Gardens, Harringay, North London.
Later that year on Sept. 3, 1919, David embarked on the SS Adriatic to return to Canada, arriving in Halifax on Sept. 19. Did Elizabeth travel with him?
During the Second World War, David served again when he joined the ‘Veterans Guard,’ the Canadian equivalent of the British ‘Home Guard.’
David died at Moose Jaw on April 17, 1959. Terry Miller of Moose Jaw has kindly traced his grave, which shows his wife, who pre-deceased him by two years, was Elizabeth or ‘Bess,’ so yes, Elizabeth did travel back to Canada where they lived out their days together.
The grave is at St Catharines (Victoria Lawn) Cemetery.
Today the magnificent Canadian Memorial at Vimy Ridge stands just a short distance from where David was shot. Despite his injury he was one of the lucky ones as the area is dotted with thousands of Canadian graves.
It is interesting how two graves, one in Sussex and one in Saskatchewan, thousands of miles distant have a connection.
Editor’s Note: Veteran Banner War Heroes’ Profiles continued from last issue.
Veterans who fought in muddy trenches and enemy-filled skies honoured with banners
Fighting in rat-infested trenches was no fun for soldiers during the First World War while facing deadly anti-air flack was likely just as miserable for airmen in the Second World War.
Sidney T. Hampson, James Burleigh Hill and Sir Arthur Charles Edward Ramshaw are three men who faced such horrors of war and are now commemorated on banners in downtown Moose Jaw. Their biographies appear below, with information taken from the City of Moose Jaw website.
This is part 6 of 8 in a series.
Sidney T. Hampson Born in 1893, Sidney was 11 when he immigrated to Canada with his widowed mother and seven siblings, homesteading near Morse in a “Soddie” before moving to Moose Jaw. At 13, he helped build the Cecil Hotel on Manitoba Street West and did odd jobs before becoming an apprentice machinist at the Canadian Pacific Railway at age 15. At age 21, the First World War broke out and Sid joined Moose Jaw’s 46th Battalion in January 1915. Shortly after, he was eastbound by rail in July, sailing to England and transferred to the 10th Battalion, which was in desperate need of replacements.
He was in the muddy, rat-filled trenches by September 1915. A good soldier, Sid was promoted and saw action at the Somme, Vimy Ridge, Hill 70 and Passchendaele, losing many friends. He was wounded in July 1918. After recuperating, he returned to Moose Jaw at war’s end and
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started working again with CPR.
Bullet fragments remained in his right shoulder his whole life.
Sid married Moose Jaw nurse Mae Sealy in 1928, and they raised two sons, John and Garth, residing on Ominica Street East while he travelled with the CPR. He gave back as CPR fire chief, safety chair, social club president, union president, and chairman of the school board and city parks and recreation board, while he loved sports.
In 1936, Sid returned to France for the unveiling of the Vimy Memorial. He retired from the CPR after 50 years and died two months later at age 71.
The medals he received were the 1914-15 Star, the British War Medal, the Victory Medal and the King George V Silver Jubilee Medal.
James Burleigh Hill
James Burleigh Hill was born on Nov. 17, 1922, to John A Leroy Hill and Vina Peral Hill of Boharm. He was raised on the family farm with four brothers and one sister.
Burleigh enlisted with the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) on Sept. 17, 1943, and was declared missing in action on Oct. 26, 1944, while flying a mine-laying operation in Heligoland Bight; the aircraft and crew were presumed lost at sea. His squadron number was 166.
James Burleigh Hill is commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, Surrey, United Kingdom.
Burleigh’s brothers, Don and Doug, applied to the Government of Saskatchewan
to have a hill formation south of Boharm named after him. However, they learned that an island in northwest Saskatchewan had already been named after him. So, Don and Doug flew to the island and erected a plaque in his memory.
Even though Burleigh had a short life, he served his country of Canada honorably and the family is very proud of him. The medals he received were the 1939-1945 Star, the France & Germany Star, the Defence Medal, the Canada Volunteer Service Medal and the War Medal 19391945.
Sir Arthur Charles Edward Ramshaw Arthur Ramshaw was born on Feb. 18, 1918, in Nokomis, although he resided in Moose Jaw from 194852.
Art worked on the Canadian Pacific Railway, with Western Ice Service and with Robin Hood Mills. He farmed in Nokomis and is currently living on the Ramshaw Homestead in that community.
Sir Arthur Ramshaw is a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion. He served Canada in the Second World War with the 8th Reconnaissance Regiment from 1939-45. The medals he received were the Volunteer War Service Medal WWII, the 1939-1945 Star, the 1939 France & Germany Star, the Canadian War Medal, the Knight
of the
the
and was awarded
for the liberation of France.
of the French National Order
Legion Honour,
Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal
the rank of knight
Sidney T. Hampson. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
James Burleigh Hill. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
Sir Arthur Charles Edward Ramshaw. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
David James McCurdy’s attestation paper from the First World War. Photo courtesy Kevin Gordon
David McCurdy’s headstone in the Resthaven Memorial Gardens, now known as Sunset Cemetery in Moose Jaw. Photo courtesy Kevin Gordon
Banners feature vets who defended Canada, parachuted into Germany
Twenty-five new banners featuring Moose Jaw veterans now hang from downtown light poles as part of the second annual project that city hall has pursued to honour those who served in war and peace.
Below are the biographies of William (Bill) Wetaski, George Markewich and Spiros (Sam) Marinos, who appear on the flags. The information comes from the City of Moose Jaw website.
This is part 7 of 8 in a series.
William (Bill) Wetaski
Bill Wetaski was born in Moose Jaw on Feb. 7, 1917, and attended Westmount School. He worked for the C.P.R. from June 1940 until he enlisted in the Canadian Army on Nov. 6, 1941, in Moosomin.
Bill’s unit was the Light 101st Anti-Aircraft Battery, where he was trained as a gunner. He was deployed overseas to France, where he was wounded in action. Dr. Arthur Young from Moose Jaw saved Bill’s life and sent him to England, where he spent 13 months in hospital recovering from his wounds.
After being honourably discharged on Feb. 21, 1946, he started working again for the C.P.R. in Moose Jaw in September 1946 until his retirement on July 10, 1978. Bill met and married Olga Keveryga in November 1947 and raised three children.
Bill belonged to the Elks Club, Canadian Legion, Local 502 U.T.U., Cosmos Club and the Army and Navy Veterans. He died on March 5, 1987, and is resting in Rosedale Cemetery.
The medals he earned were the 1939-1945 Star, the France and Germany Star, the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal, the War Medal 1939-1945 and the Defence Medal.
George Markewich
George (L108544) was born on Jan. 24, 1923, and was raised and lived in Moose Jaw until his death on May 24, 1995.
George enlisted at age 21 as a mechanist helper in Regina on March 23, 1944. He completed his basic training on June 9 in Shilo, Man., and his secondary training on Aug. 29. He then completed his Canadian parachute training on Sept. 13, 1944.
George then volunteered for the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion and was sent to Ringway, Manchester, England. On March 24, 1945, his battalion parachuted across the Rhine River in the largest airborne concentration of the war during Operation Varsity Drop.
It was then that Winston Churchill ordered the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion and the Royal Scot Greys (British Army) to march across Germany to secure the port town of Wismar on the Baltic Sea just hours ahead of the Russian troops, stopping them from taking over the Baltic Sea ports.
At the end of the war, George’s battalion returned to Canada in June after being royally inspected by Princess Elizabeth. The battalion disbanded on Sept. 30, 1945.
Upon George’s return to Moose Jaw, he married Catherine Stephen, and they raised four children. There is a mountain dedicated to the 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion, the Ex Coelis Mountain monument, which is located near Siffleur Falls north of Banff National Park. Ex Coelis means “above the clouds,” which is fitting for the paratroopers.
The medals he earned were the France and Germany Star and the Canadian Volunteer Service.
Spiros (Sam) Marinos
Spiros Marinos was born in 1891 in Yeleni, Peloponnese, Greece. At age 18, Spiros travelled to Canada with his dad. The two headed west to Moose Jaw and its large Greek community.
After two years in Canada, Spiros’ dad returned to Greece. Spiros chose to stay, much to the dismay of his mother, Ibios, saying she would never see her son again, a prediction that sadly came true.
Between 1920 and 1940, Spiros owned and operated three businesses in Moose Jaw: the Modern Grocerteria Store, the Union Fruit Store, and Sam’s Inn.
On July 18, 1923, Spiros married Margaret Fraser Houston, and they raised two sons, Gavin and Grant. At age 93, Grant is the last surviving immediate family member.
In 1938, Spiros was elected president of the Moose Jaw Chapter of the AHEPA (Anglo-Hellenic Educational Progressive Society). AHEPA’s mission promotes the ancient Hellenic ideals of education, philanthropy, civic responsibility, family and individual excellence through community service and volunteerism.
In 1939, Spiros joined the King’s Own Rifles of Canada (KORC) militia as a cook. The KORC was a primary reserve armoured regiment of the Canadian Army, whose obligation was to assist the regular force in meeting its military commitments.
Spiros was a corporal in the KORC when he died on Nov. 16, 1945, at age 54. Spiros was buried in the military section of the Moose Jaw Rosedale Cemetery, which was designated for those who served in the KORC.
Veterans who fought in high-profile battles in Europe, Asia, Middle East featured on banners
The veterans’ banners throughout the downtown feature men who had interesting lives, including one who fought in three high-profile battles and one who helped end a conflict in Egypt.
Below are the biographies of four men who appear on the new flags. The information comes from the City of Moose Jaw website.
This is part 8 of 8 in a series.
Anthony (Tony) Olden Thomlinson
Anthony (Tony) Olden Thomlinson was born in Rideau Ferry, Ont., and began his military service in the active militia — The Edmonton Fusiliers — from 1936-39, then enlisted with the South Saskatchewan Regiment (SSR) in 1939 and completed his training in army bases across Canada before he joined the Second World War in January 1940.
He was a veteran of the famed Raid on Dieppe in August 1942 and was shot in his right shoulder on that occasion, being reported missing for some time.
On July 8, 1944, his SSR unit landed in France and jumped into the Battle of Normandy, he was severely injured on Aug. 8, 1944, from a grenade to the chest and suffered severe chest and lung injuries.
He was involved with the liberation of the Netherlands in 1945, and all the veterans involved received a “Thank you Canada Medal” from the Dutch people, who are grateful to this day.
The war ended for Tony on June 26, 1945, when he was honourably discharged.
He was called up to serve in the Korean War and
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was made a sergeant of the 2nd Battalion of the Princess Patricias Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), which fought in the Battle of Kapyong. The unit was awarded the Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation for its extraordinary heroism and outstanding performance of combat duties, the first time a Canadian unit had been so honoured.
Dad bravely and selflessly served his country and was honourably released on March 4, 1952, and returned to Moose Jaw to raise his family.
The medals he earned were the 19391945 Star, France and Germany Star, Defence Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service, Canadian Medal with Overseas Service Bar & Dieppe Bar, War Medal 19391945, Canadian Korea Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal for Korea, United Nations Service Medal (Korea), Netherlands Liberation Thank You Medal 1945, and the United States Presidential Unit Citation (Blue Flash) Korea 1951.
Donald Nathan Edward Stockton
Donald Nathan Edward Stockton was born on Nov. 25, 1923, in Radville, Sask.
Donald joined the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and was called into service on Nov. 11, 1943. He served
in India with the 358 Squadron Royal Air Force (RAF) in the bomber and special duties squadron as a tail gunner. He was in Bombay, India when the bomb was dropped on Hiroshima, Japan, which signalled the end of the Second World War. He was released from the military at the end of the war.
Donald re-enrolled in the RCAF in 1949 as an air frame technician and retired in November 1973. During his years in service, he was stationed at Calgary (194953), Claresholm (1953-55), Cold Lake (1955-62), Ottawa (CFB Uplands 1962-68) and Moose Jaw (1968-73).
Donald participated in a UN Tour in 1966-67 in the United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF), which was a military and peacekeeping operation established to secure an end to the Suez Crisis of 1956. While on this assignment, he was stationed in El-Arish in the Gaza Strip. He retired while stationed in Moose Jaw, where he resided until dying at age 100 on Aug. 8, 2024.
The medals he earned were the CF Decoration CD1, the UN Emergency Force (UNEF), the War Medal 1939-1945, the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and the Canadian Peacekeeping Service Medal (CPSM).
Harold (Seebee) Seabrook
Harold (Seebee) Seabrook was born in 1919 in Aiktow, Sask., and in 1942, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy and served on the HMCS Prince David. The ship saw active duty in the Atlantic, the Pacific, and the medium and the northwestern European zones.
Harold was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion No. 59 for 40 years, right up to his death in 2004. Harold still has much of his artwork displayed in the hall today.
The medals he earned were the 1939-1945 Star of Italy and the Star of France.
Douglas (Scottie) B. Dunlop
There was no information about Douglas (Scottie) B. Dunlop on the web page, aside from the fact he served with the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War from 1939 to 1945.
A little more about war hero AB Norman Price of Moose Jaw
Submitted by Kelsey Lonie, Collections Manager, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 001 Museum
Thank you to Kelsey Lonie, Military Historian and the collections manager of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 001 Museum in Regina, Saskatchewan for submitting this photo and information regarding war hero AB Norman Price.
“Last week I came across a black and white photograph from the Second World War labeled ‘AB Norman Price, Moose Jaw, with PO Wren ‘Cordite.’ The man and pup pose for the camera aboard the HMCS Uganda, a ship with a remarkable story.
“The HMCS Uganda was the only Canadian ship to fight against Japan for any length of time during the Second World War and was unique in voting itself out of the war!
“In May 1945, war in Europe was winding down but the HMCS Uganda was still attacking Japanese airfields and defending the fleet from air raids in the Pacific, surviving a kamikaze strike and receiving battle honours for operations during the Battle of Okinawa. When Victory in Europe was declared, Prime Minister Mackenzie King stated that only volunteers would be sent to the Pacific theatre to help finish the
war over there. However, what did this mean for those serving on the HMCS Uganda? They were already over there! Would they volunteer again?
“A vote was held on board, and almost two-thirds chose not to volunteer for more service. Many were married and had already been away from home for four to five years. The HMCS Uganda had no choice but to return to Canada. The ship left for Canada at the end of July 1945 and arrived on 10 August 1945, the same day Japan proposed a conditional surrender.
“Norman Price, pictured in this image, served on the HMCS Uganda during the Second World War.” Lonie says she also looked into “Cordite” the loyal pup in the photograph. “Cordite served as the ship’s pet in the Pacific theatre. According to an article in the Ottawa Evening Citizen on 14 June 1945, the “mongrel walked aboard the cruiser at a British port… She discovered that the air-conditioned operations room was the most comfortable spot in the ship and spent a good deal of her time there.”
Anthony (Tony) Olden Thomlinson. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
Donald Nathan Edward Stockton. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
Harold (Seebee) Seabrook. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
Douglas (Scottie) B. Dunlop. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw
Square One announces upcoming premier of local film addressing homelessness in Moose Jaw
In a collaboration between Square One Community Inc. and the John Howard Society, and in partnership with Rogers TV and the Moose Jaw Public Library, Square One is announcing an upcoming film that explores homelessness from a fresh perspective.
The film, “A Home to Call My Own,” was directed by Eric Steiner and will be shown as an invitation-only premier event at the public library and also streamed online for everyone to view starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 17.
“‘A Home to Call My Own’ is focused on homelessness in Moose Jaw, although this is a salient issue across the entire country. We really wanted to have a local look at what homelessness in Moose Jaw is looking like currently, and to tackle some of those myths in the community about homelessness that are, in fact, perpetuating the problem,” announced Max Eckstein, the co-ordinator of Square One.
“(The film) looks from a human perspective (to see) what strategies have worked to bring (about) these tremendous recovery stories.”
The film seeks to revisit many of the myths that surround the topic. Eckstein said he’s also hoping to see politicians and other community leaders be inspired to affect positive changes.
One key myth is the belief that home-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
less individuals are coming in from other communities, and some believe they are even being bussed in. “In fact, we see over 90 per cent of people receiving services here in the city are local,” Eckstein said. “They have either lived here all their lives, or they’ve returned… after a short time away. This is a local problem, and it needs local solutions.
“It’s very important to address these myths and dispel them in some circumstances,” he said. “When these issues become the dominant narrative in the community, we start to see a drive to limit and remove services to people who need it the most.
“When that happens, it actually exasperates all the problems that the community is concerned about,” he added.
“Addressing these myths isn’t just the compassionate thing to do — it’s… going to give us a better and brighter community.”
Eckstein said a number of local individuals will be featured in the film and two play a starring role. He said people usually hear about the issue from community leaders and rarely those who are experiencing it themselves.
One of these individuals is named Frankie, a man who has received extensive services through the John Howard Society. The second man, Trevor, was
born and raised in Moose Jaw and came to suffer from both addictions and homelessness, Eckstein said.
“What’s really interesting about Trevor’s situation — which he’s going to share quite a bit about — is where we think homelessness comes from,” he explained. “Trevor came from a family that was a middle-class family here in the city, just like any other family you would expect (to see day-to-day), and addiction and homelessness hit that family as well. So, we’re going to see his tremendous story of recovery for both addictions and being unhoused.”
Trevor’s story is part of an eye-opening realization — that homelessness can
happen to anyone. “That’s one thing from the film we will really highlight, is that everyone is really only one small tragedy, or one small step away from facing a situation of homelessness themselves.”
The reason for the private showing, Eckstein explained, is primarily because of limited room at the public library’s theatre, but also because organizers are looking to create a forum where those who found solutions can speak directly with those currently unhoused or suffering with addictions.
“I hope the viewer takes away that the solution isn’t barriers, it’s connection,” Eckstein said.
“The more someone feels connected to their community, cared about, loved, and supported, the more recovery stories you’re going to hear. The more we isolate people, the more we create stigma around them, or buy into myths that really don’t have a founding.”
To learn more visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com or call 306-631-9340.
The film can be accessed at YouTube. com/watch?v=YjkH3TphZEU, which is hosted on the ‘Rogers tv Community Shorts’ YouTube channel. You may also be able to find a link on Square One’s Facebook page, ‘Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw.’
Stunning Global News Article – By Katie Dangerfield
I had a wonderful Edmonton neighbour who died from Lung Cancer. He never smoked, nor had anyone in his family. He worked researching Environment Issues. The job never put him in harm’s way.
It was a situation that always intrigued me. How Come?
From my readings on MS and messengerRNA I was aware that BioNTech had been looking at messengerRNA as a cancer therapeutic, prior to COVID-19. What they had learned about messengerRNA from working on cancer, was used to develop the COVID-19 ‘vaccine’.
Well – check this out!
On August 25, 2024, Katie Dangerfield of Global News reported:
“The mRNA vaccine, known as BTN116, developed by the German biotechnology company BioNTech, is the first of its kind and has entered
By Richard Dowson
phase 1 clinical trials in seven countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. This vaccine is designed to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the most common form of the disease.”
Katie continues:
“About the mRNA vaccine
“The development of the lung cancer vaccine began four years ago, following the successful creation of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccine by BioNTech-Pfizer and Moderna …”.
Clinical Trials is wonderful news.
Viruses and Cancer
Knowing some cancers are caused by a virus began in 1910, 114 years ago.
The discovery was made in 1910 by American Microbiologist Francis ‘Peyton’ Rous – a discovery ‘trashed’ by the field of microbiology and cancer research for decades. Turns out about
20% or more of cancers are caused by a virus. Since messengerRNA has a proven track record it makes sense to utilize the technology for dealing with certain cancers.
In February 1911 Rous published his Paper, “A Sarcoma of the Fowl Transmissible by an Agent Separable from the Tumor Cells.” The Paper was published in The Journal of Experimental Medicine, April 1, 1911; 13(4): 397–411.
His Lab critters of choice were Barred Plymouth Rock Chickens.
His Abstract: “A transmissible sarcoma of the chicken has been under observation in this laboratory for the past fourteen months and has assumed of late a special interest because of its extreme malignancy and a tendency to widespread metastasis.”
His experimental objective was, “… to determine whether it can be transmitted
by a filtrate free of the tumour cells.”
His work was eventually recognized. Francis Peyton Rous shared the 1966 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine. The Motivation for the Prize was: “For his discovery of tumor-inducing viruses.”
The Global News Article Can Be Found at: 1st lung cancer vaccine trials launch, powered by COVID mRNA technology - National | Globalnews.ca
Barred Plymouth Rock Chicken
Moose Jaw’s Heisler picks up curling tournament win at U18 Sask Cup #2
Local rink come all the way back from ‘C’ side to claim top spot in Prince Albert Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
Don’t look now, but Moose Jaw’s Dayne Heisler has suddenly become a favourite to win the Curl Sask U18 boys provincial championship in a few months time.
Heisler and his rink of third Blake Montgomery, second Riley Cushway and lead Laine Burnham came all the way back from the ‘C’ side to win the U18 Sask Cup #2 in Prince Albert, staking their claim as one of the top rinks in the age group in the province.
The Moose Jaw Curling Centre foursome opened with a win 9-4 win over Saskatoon’s Jacob Parker in their first ‘A’ side game, but would lose their next two to fall to the ‘C’ side.
Heisler first ran into defending provincial champion Tyler Derksen from Martensville in their ‘A’ semi and dropped a 9-7 decision before falling 8-3 to Saskatoon’s Joel Kitsch in their first ‘B’ side contest.
As it turns out, that would be their last loss on the weekend.
Heisler rematched Parker in their ‘C’
lead Laine Burnham won the U18 Sask Cup #2 over the weekend in Prince Albert.
qualifier and put up back-to-back threeenders in the third and fourth before going on to an 8-4 victory and booking their spot the playoffs.
There, they faced Saskatoon’s Brandon Weiss in the semifinal and found themselves in a battle from start to finish.
After exchanging points in the first two ends, Heisler took the lead with a steal of two in the third, but promptly gave up two the next end and a steal in the fifth to trail 4-3. Heisler would tie the game in the sixth, though, and get a steal of two in the seventh to regain the lead before running Weiss out of rocks in the eighth, taking a 6-4 win.
That sent Heisler into the championship final where they’d once again run into Kitsch -- and this time, get a far different result.
Deuces in the third and fifth ends gave Kitsch a 4-2 lead, but Heilser tied the game in the sixth, stole two more in the seventh and added a steal in the eighth to take a 7-4 victory.
Jerry Serviss was inducted into the Windsor/Essex County Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his remarkable hockey career on Oct. 5.
Outstanding hockey career of Moose Jaw native Jerry Serviss honoured in Hall of Fame induction Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A former Moose Jaw resident and native to the Friendly City, Gerald (Jerry) Serviss, has now been inducted into the Windsor/Essex County Sports Hall of Fame (WECSHOF) for the class of 2024 in recognition of his outstanding hockey career.
The 42nd WECSHOF induction ceremony took place on Oct. 5 at the Ciociaro Club in Windsor, Ont., which is where Serviss spent much of his career and is the place he now calls home.
“You know, it’s pretty special seeing that he helped win a national championship with the senior team in the Allan Cup. And then, to follow up on that, he won a national championship at the college level which was a big part of the hockey community here in Windsor,” said Jerry’s son and former Ontario Hockey League (OHL) player Robb Serviss.
“Being recognized as a Hall of Famer is pretty special.”
Serviss began his hockey career in the 1956 — 57 season with the Humboldt-Melfort Indians in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey Leage (SJHL). His career would go on to span seven leagues including the Western Hockey League (WHL) and he played for nine teams including the Estevan Bruins and the Windsor Bulldogs.
In 1975 he arrived in Windsor, Ont. where he began coaching the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) men’s
league at St. Clair College.
In his first year as head coach, the Windsor St. Clair Saints topped off a perfect regular season (20 — 0) and won their second consecutive OCAA championship.
At nationals that same year, the Saints took home the OCAA’s first-ever Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) championship gold medal.
In his second season, Serviss led the team to their third consecutive OCAA gold medal.
The next five years under Serviss brought the Saints one additional gold medal and two silvers. Over the course of his career, Serviss produced an outstanding 100 — 24 regular season record. This led to his recognition in 1975 — 76 as CCAA Coach of the Year.
“I would say, with my dad, he had a great understanding of the game and I think that probably came from him (playing as) a defenseman in the SJHL,” Robb said.
“He had a good understanding of both forward and defense, and he was a real, I’d say, educator. He really knew how to teach kids the game of hockey,” Robb continued.
“He just loved sharing his knowledge of the game. I’d say, along with that, he could get people excited. That was probably the biggest thing.”
When Serviss learned about his induction earlier this year he was honoured.
many people knew my dad and knew what a positive impact he had… both as a player and a coach,” Robb added.
Serviss remains connected to Moose Jaw and is part of its hockey legacy that includes names like Banting and Swarbrick.
“He’s got his sister (Bona Smith) still there (in Moose Jaw) and a few friends,” Robb said. “He’s 87, but I drove him out there two years ago… so he was back and got to see old family and friends.”
“How can anyone ask for anything better than that,” he said in an earlier statement.
Much to his surprise — and demonstrating the lasting bond created by winning a national championship together — eight of his former college players showed up to support him.
Serviss’ legacy will be remembered by a successful 25-year career in Windsor and for the impact he’s had on the game and the community.
“He truly put St. Clair (College) on the national map by winning a national championship, and that team actually went undefeated,” Robb said. “They are, I think, one of the only — if not only — programs to ever go undefeated in college hockey.
“I’d say, as his son, that I had a pretty special upbringing in Windsor because so
His younger brothers Tom Serviss — who played for the Moose Jaw Canucks in 1964 — 65 — and Bob Serviss — who played for the Moose Jaw Canucks in 1954 — 55 and the Moose Jaw Pla-Mors for three seasons are also proudly connected to the community.
“He’s very proud to be from Moose Jaw. He grew up there and left at 20 years of age to pursue a hockey career,” Robb said. “That hockey career brought him eventually to Windsor, and that’s where he got married. Actually, my mom is also from Moose Jaw.
“(Moose Jaw has) always been kind of our second home. (We live in) Windsor, but all our family is in Moose Jaw,” he said. “It’s a nice little town, and for me, it’s my family roots.”
For more information about the 2024 Hall of Fame induction visit WECSHOF. com.
Finalists set in Moose Jaw high school senior volleyball, city championship Wednesday
Central to face Vanier for boys title, Spirits to take on Cornerstone in girls final Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The finals are set in the Moose Jaw High Schools Athletic Association senior boys and girls volleyball leagues.
And both gold medal games will feature a team looking to repeat as city champions.
The Central Cyclones advanced to the boys final thanks to a 25-21, 25-21, 2523 sweep over the Cornerstone Christian School Falcons at Central.
Central will face the Vanier Vikings for the title after Vanier defeated the Peacock Toilers 25-22, 25-20, 24-26, 2521 in their semifinal.
The Cyclones will be the favourites after posting an undefeated 8-0 record and dropping only five sets all season. Central defeated Vanier (7-2) in four sets to open the regular season back on Sept. 17 and followed up with a sweep when the teams rematched on Oct. 10.
The boys final will take place on Wednesday at 8 p.m. at Sask Polytech.
The Vanier Spirits will look to win their second-straight league title after downing Briercrest Christian Academy in three games 25-13, 25-22, 25-22 in their semifinal.
The opposition in the city final will be
the Cornerstone Christian School Falcons, who took a 25-20, 25-11, 25-14 win over the Peacock Toilers at Cornerstone. Vanier had the better record in the regular season, going 9-1 and finishing in first place in the Tier I division, but Cornerstone was right on their heels and finished at 9-2. In fact, the only loss Vanier had in the campaign was to the Falcons, and recently at that -- a five-set barnburner back on Oct. 22. The Spirits won the other meeting in four games on Oct. 10.
The girls final is set for 5:50 p.m. Wednesday at Sask Polytech.
Photo by: DAX MELMER /Windsor Star (with permission)
The Moose Jaw Curling Centre team of coach Rod Montgomery, skip Dayne Heisler, third Blake Montgomery, second Riley Cushway and
The day Regina Pats forward Braxton Whitehead has been waiting for has finally come.
The NCAA announced on Thursday that beginning the 2025-26 season, players from the Canadian Hockey League will be eligible to play in their leagues, eliminating a long-standing barrier to CHL players joining U.S. colleges and universities.
Whitehead, 20, became a pioneer earlier this season when he announced a verbal commitment to join the Arizona State University Sun Devils, not long after a lawsuit was announced to challenge the NCAA rules.
Back then, It was felt it was only a matter of time before the NCAA went down the CHL route, largely due to the new Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) rules that see NCAA players now being paid for their services.
Last Thursday, that all became reality.
“It’s pretty exciting, I’m not going to lie,” Whitehead said on CKRM SportsCage shortly after practice with the Pats. “I was on the ice when the decision went through so I didn’t know right off the bat, but I kind of had some good intel it was going to go though. I’m just really excited, I’m looking forward to finishing this year in the WHL and then making that transition.”
Whitehead is in his fifth season with Regina and has two goals and eight points in 14 games after putting up 52 points in 52 games last season.
While the whole situation is still in its
earliest stages, the Palmer, Alaska product is looking forward to what’s ahead soon.
“I assume sometime soon I’ll sign my NIL and go from there,” he said. “Obviously this just happened so this is pretty foreign information to me, too. I don’t know how the whole college commitment thing works because everyone I’ve known here in Canada are always signing AHL and NHL deals… so I’m excited to be going through the process.”
Given his pioneer status, Whitehead has already started to field queries from friends and teammates regarding how to get signed themselves. Naturally, he’s
more than happy to help out as much as he can.
“Like ‘hey, how should I go about this, should I send my letters to coaches, should I send them to the team where they have someone to look through the letters for them’, stuff like that,” Whitehead explained. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with sticking your foot out there and that’s what I’ve been telling my buddies to do, get your name out there.”
No sooner was the deal announced than did a few concerns pop up, especially when it comes to how it’ll affect Junior A players, once the staple of NCAA college
programs.
The wins just keep adding up for Chris Schon and his Fountain Tire foursome in the Original 16 Cash League.
Schon improved to 5-0 on the campaign and remain the lone unbeaten rink after taking an 8-2 win over HK Henderson (Wade Gray, 3-2) on Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.
Gray got off to a good start and led 2-1 through three ends, but Schon took control with three in the fourth and followed up with steals the next two ends, including
R.K. Sunview Farms (Dayne Heisler, 2-4) followed up on their win in the U18 Sask Cup #2 tournament over the weekend in style, rolling to a 13-3 victory over M&T Feedlot (Ryan Wenarchuk, 1-4).
Heisler picked up a deuce in the fourth end to take a 4-2 lead and after Wenarchuk got one back in the fifth, things couldn’t have gone better for the young rink the rest of the way. A three-spot in the sixth made it a 7-3 game and Heisler then put up one of the biggest ends of the season, stealing six in the seventh for the 10-point win.
Barnsley, 1-5) picked up their first win of the season with a 5-3 victory over EMJ Marketing (Joe Gunnis, 1-5).
As the score would indicate, it was close throughout. Gunnis took a 2-0 lead out of the fourth end, but Barnsley picked up a deuce in the fifth to tie things up. A steal in the sixth gave Barnsley a one-point lead, and the teams would exchange points over the final two ends.
Young and Young Automotive (Stan
The closest game of the night was between a pair of perennial league title contenders, as KMS Construction (Ben Gamble, 4-1) took an 8-7 win over BTN
Now, every school in NCAA DIvision I will be on the hunt for the borderline NHL-adjacent players the CHL produces, taking away some opportunities for the lower leagues.
“For me, everything has been straightup positive, but I can see both sides,” Whitehead admitted. “There will be some leagues that will be hurt by this decision, but that’s kind of how things go. Hockey is an evolving sport and this is one of the changes that I think has to be made to make it a complete sport.”
Whitehead plans to take an international flavour with his educational pursuits and is looking at taking the combination of International Business and Geography as his majors at ASU.
“I think those two would pair well. Striking some trade deals in the future between two foreign countries I think sounds pretty exciting,” Whitehead said. “If that doesn’t work out I’m also looking at an aviation path, so I think that could be cool.”
Then, of course, there are the perks.
Potentially playing golf in the middle of winter -- Whitehead estimates he’s a seven-handicap -- and taking the ice at the state-of the art Mullet Arena are just some of the extra things he’s looking forward to.
“It’s a great opportunity and I’m excited to see what it’s all going to be like down there, for sure.”
You can catch Braxton’s full interview on www.sportscage.com
Chartered Accountants (Penny Barker, 3-2). Gamble struck first with three in the second end for a 3-1 lead, but Barker would get all of that back the next end and would steal two in the fourth to go up 6-3. Gamble got back within one with two in the fifth, and after the teams exchanged singles, he’d get a steal of two in the eighth to take the one-point victory.
Leeville Construction (Dustin Woloschuk, 4-1) had the bye.
Action in the Original 16 Cash League takes place every Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre. “It’s pretty
Pats forward Braxton Whitehead will be playing at Arizona State University next season after the NCAA announced CHL players could join their ranks for the 2025-26 season.
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
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.
ACROSS 1. Mend 5. House 10. Gorillas 14. Decorative case 15. Hiker’s path 16. Ripped 17. Incidental
US spy agency 36. Not yours 37. Sommelier’s specialty
Scream 39. Superior limb
Poker holdings
Evanesces
Championship games
Prisoner of war
Triangular formation
46. Lost one’s footing 50. In an unfriendly way 52. Jottings 54. Beer 55. Lounge around 56. Having superior positions
58. Kilogram 59. Blood pump 60. Type of gesture 61. At low speed 62. Laneway 63. Cultural doings DOWN
1. Interior layout and furnishings 2. Expiate 3. Dominates
Zero
Wait on
It comes in a loaf 7. Paddles
Fulminations
Addition
Affix
Plastered 12. Coastal raptor
13. Notices
18. Companionless 22. Information 24. Buddies
26. Makes a mistake
28. Curves
29. Egyptian river
30. Ladies
31. A cleansing agent
32. Ringlet
33. Nocturnal armored mammal
34. Dry fruity red wine
37. Drift
38. Make a raucous noise
40. Sacred
41. Impose by trickery
43. Color of the midday sun
44. More than enough
46. Fixed gaze
47. Cell alternative
48. Select by voting
49. Writing tables
50. Anagram of “Silk”
51. Helix
53. Egg-shaped
56. Revelation response 57. Goat hair fabric
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 306-527-7786.
210 SERVICES
Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268
Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, 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, tvs, furniture, or anything large in and around Moose Jaw, $45 and up. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $20 each. 1000 Litre plastic totes - $60. Dry cut up firewood 10 - 14”
lengths - Split wood - $50/row, Not Split - $35/ row, one row across truck box. 306-681-8749
160 MISCELLANEOUS
FOR SALE - Sunset Cemetery Last Supper Cremation Plot #212. Asking $1600, open to reasonable offers. Please call 306-693-2003.
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 306-692-3282.
Set of 4 snow tires 225/50 R 17 mounted on aluminum wheels with sensors. From a 2019 Fusion. Less then 10,000 km’s. Also front and rear
Ford Fusion custom rubber floors mats. All for $440. 306-692-5078.
225 GARAGE SALES
MASSIVE MOVING SALE - 1437 Vaughan St. Nov. 15th from 5 pm - 8 pm and Nov. 16th 9 am to 3 pm. Variety of household and outdoor items: couches, beds, chairs, indoor and outdoor seasonal items, tools, tables, ect. Boxes are available to carry smaller items. Please park on street and walk through front gate to garage
190 PETS
Weimaraner puppies for sale. Call 306-6414315.
Obituaries / Memorials
STARK, Beverly Ann (nee Porter)
November 3, 1941 - October 26, 2024
Beverly Stark passed away peacefully at Central Haven Care Home in Saskatoon following a long illness. Bev was born to Cecil and Florence Porter of Stony Beach and lived on the farm until she moved to go to high school in Moose Jaw. Beverly was predeceased by her husband Harvey Stark in 2011. She is survived by her daughter Dawn Milligan , son Darren Read and grandson Travis Read. Also surviving are her sisters Shirley Spence of Saskatoon ,Betty Read of Spruce Grove AB and special cousin Wayne Lersbak of Tuscon AZ as well as many nieces and nephews. Also mourning her passing are Harvey’s children Corinne Symonds Calgary and Danny Stark Penticton BC and their children and Harvey’s sister Sharon Naus Colorado.
Beverly worked in Moose Jaw after high school until she moved to Calgary where she worked as a bookkeeper for an accounting firm and where she met Harvey. When Harvey was transferred from Calgary they moved to Moose Jaw where Bev worked as a book keeper and office manager.
When Harvey retired they sold their house and took to living in RV’s living in Moose Jaw in summer and Yuma AZ in winter. During the summer they lived on the property at Deer Ridge Golf Course . After Harvey’s passing Bev moved to an apartment but continued working and playing golf at the course.
Special mention must be made of two special friends who have been a big part of Bev’s life , Irene Mantel of Moose Jaw and Marcie Pickhartz in California. The family is especially grateful for the caring and support they have been.
As per Bev’s wishes there will be no funeral but a family memorial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations to a charity of the donors’ choice would be welcome or to the Canadian Cancer Society.
TRINITY UNITED CHURCH
277 Iroquois St W Moose Jaw, SK
Next Service: Nov 17th, 2024 10:30am Rev. Walter Engel
Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan to help your community for generations to come.
Diefenbaker Drive
Jaw, SK S6J 0C2 Phone (306) 694-0373 www.mjhf.org
twixt and between
Among is similar but there are differences betwixt between and among. There is a continuing but unfounded idea that between is to be used only of two items and that among must be used for more than two. However, Old English usage indicates that between had been used when comparing more than two items.
Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Betwixt, Between, and Among
As I pondered the election of the President of the United States I was glad I did not have to cast a vote. The two candidates would have left me betwixt and between a rock and a hard place. I could see some merit in each of the contenders but I had more reservations about each of them than positive thoughts. Among the concerns with both are what it might mean for world events and social impact. I am unsure of what direction Donald Trump might go with many issues. I believe Kamala Harris is more readable but not sure her positions on several matters are those with which I may agree. Now that President Trump has won, the world waits in anticipation of how he may respond to various issues.
A common 17th century nursery rhyme used betwixt “Jack Sprat could eat no fat, his wife could eat no lean; and so betwixt the two of them, they licked the platter clean.” Many people know the rhyme as “so between the two of them.” However the earliest versions use betwixt Betwixt and between both come from a combination of ‘be’ as a prefix to related Old English roots. The prefix ‘be’ is an unstressed form of ‘by’ meaning at, on, near, around, about. Twixt was used in Old English with reference to position or location, as in the cow was twixt the sheep. Also, with reference to association or relationship, as in the baby came into being twixt Joseph and Mary. And with reference to similarity or difference, as in red hair is twixt all the siblings in the Smith family. In the Old English tween was a preposition to indicate a position between two extremes. Both betwixt and between appeared before the 12th century, but use of betwixt dropped off toward the end of the 1600s. It only survived in the phrase ‘betwixt and between’ (neither one thing nor the other), which became popular in the 18th century. Now betwixt is uncommon but pops up now and then in the phrase be-
Between is especially appropriate to denote a oneto-one relationship, regardless of the number of items. Among is usually used with plurals. Many word experts agree that people should feel entirely comfortable following their own guidelines for when to use between and when to use among
Between means in the time, space, or interval that separates. I told them to arrive between 5 and 6 o’clock. Among signifies in the midst of or surrounded by. They had little success hunting this year as the deer remained hidden among the trees.
Between suggests from one to another. WestJet flies frequently between Regina and Calgary. Among purports in company or association with others. Mother Teresa left the safety of the convent and lived among the poor.
Between implies sharing in common. The money in the estate was divided between her four grandchildren. Among denotes in giving portions to each. The pie was distributed among the guests requesting dessert. Between connotes setting apart. His writings blur the line between fact and fiction. Among indicates by or through a mass of units or parts somewhat loosely associated with one another. The new provincial program provoked discontent among the students.
Both between and among infer common and joint action. They met in Belgium for talks between the three leaders. The shared lottery ticket purchases made a fortune among them.
Both between and among signify a point of comparison in a number or class of things. She chose the vehicle that was a year older because there was little difference between the two cars. Among other things he was president of the Lions Club.
Now I am a bit confused. If I have four cookies to give to the granddaughters, do I distribute them between the girls or among the girls? I guess it is my choice, as long as betwixt them, each gets two.
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.
Letters to the EDITOR for MJ Express
RE: COLLECTIVE WEST USING UKRAINE AS A ‘PAWN’ TO PROVOKE HAVOC ON RUSSIA
Disclaimer: At the time of writing the author serves as the Reeve of the RM 76 and is seeking re-election; the following are his own personal views and opinions and not that of council.
I would like to expand upon a statement I made in a September 23rd letter to the Editor in the Gravelbourg Tribune which Daryl Sproule replied to in the October 28th edition. Mr. Sproule writes “I don’t understand your reasoning “that the collective west of which Canada is a part of is using Ukraine as a “pawn” to provoke and deliver havoc and terror on the Russian nation””.
To explain the statement, I will draw your attention to a lengthy (354 page) document titled “Extending Russia- Competing from Advantageous Ground” written by the Rand Corporation in 2019. Please consider the following excerpts from the document. Credit to geopolitical commentator Brian Berletic of the New Atlas YouTube channel for repeatedly referencing the document and associated details.
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Summary Geopolitical Measures:
So in essence the document is a US federally funded report looking at ways to cause Russia to be overextended militarily or economically causing the regime to lose domestic and/or international prestige and influence in general “wreak havoc”. The document includes chapters on using Economic, Geopolitical, Ideological and Information, Air and Space, Maritime, Land and Multidomain measures for the US to compete on advantageous ground against Russia. There is also a disclaimer saying that views do not represent the “official policy or position” of the U.S government, but there is that saying “actions speak louder than words”.
More to the point of Ukraine being used as a pawn in geopolitical chess match to provoke Russia consider the following excerpts from the Summary on Geopolitical Measures and the Chapter 4 Geopolitical Measure Recommendations.
From the Preface: ....... The purpose of the project was to examine a range of possible means to extend Russia. By this, we mean nonviolent measures that could stress Russia’s military or economy or the regime’s political standing at home and abroad. The steps we posit would not have either defense or deterrence as their prime purpose, although they might contribute to both. Rather, these steps are conceived of as measures that would lead Russia to compete in domains or regions where the United States has a competitive advantage, causing Russia to overextend itself militarily or economically or causing the regime to lose domestic and/or international prestige and influence. .... RAND Arroyo Center, part of the RAND Corporation, is a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC) sponsored by the U.S. Army...... The views of sources utilized in this study are solely their own and do not represent the official policy or position of the Department of Defense or the U.S.government.
The Ukrainian military already is bleeding Russia in the Donbass region (and vice versa). Providing more U.S. military equipment and advice could lead Russia to increase its direct involvement in the conflict and the price it pays for it. Russia might respond by mounting a new offensive and seizing more Ukrainian territory. While this might increase Russia’s costs, it would also represent a setback for the United States, as well as for Ukraine........ Most of these measures—whether in Europe or the Middle East—risk provoking Russian reaction that could impose large military costs on U.S. allies and large political costs on the United States itself. Increasing military advice and arms supplies to Ukraine is the most feasible of these options with the largest impact, but any such initiative would have to be calibrated very carefully to avoid a widely expanded conflict.
Chapter 4 Geopolitical Measures
Recommendations:
So in essence this US government funded document written at least two years prior to the Russian Special Military Operation in Ukraine acknowledges that most of the geopolitical measures may provoke reaction, Russia has military superiority and escalation dominance with respect to Ukraine and if not carefully managed Russia might seize more Ukraine territory. Hopefully you can see the analogy of chess game between the US and its allies vs. Russia and Ukraine being used as “pawn” to upset or provoke Russia. Ukraine is the pawn because the US and its western allies which include Canada are willing to risk Ukraine loosing territory and human resources so they “might” destabilize or wreak havoc and terror on Russia and the Russian people.
As an aside for consideration, if the above was known or ought to be known by elected representatives prior to Russia’s military entering Ukraine in 2022: Does repeating slogans like “stand with Ukraine”, “uphold democracy” and “Slava Ukraini” or the wearing of a Ukraine flag lapel pin indicate elected representatives and officials are a) disingenuous, b) buffoons c) just evil d) carefully calibrated or e)_____? What are the implications of your answer for Canadian citizens?
Respectfully, Richard Marleau
“Russia’s commitment in Eastern Ukraine is its greatest point of external vulnerability; local opposition is active, and Ukraine is a larger and more capable adversary than any of the other states where Russian troops are committed. Even here, however, Russia possesses local military superiority and thus controls the possibility of escalation dominance. Any increase in U.S. military arms and advice to Ukraine would need to be carefully calibrated to increase the costs to Russia of sustaining its existing commitment without provoking a much wider and even more violent conflict.
Aerospace group buys new helicopters for training program at 15 Wing
The company that plans to train Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) pilots at 15 Wing Air Base under a futuristic new program has just purchased aircraft to support the initiative.
SkyAlyne, which is comprised of aviation companies CAE Inc. and KF Aerospace, recently signed a major contract with Airbus Helicopters — formerly Eurocopter — to purchase 19 H135 helicopters for the 25-year, $11.2-billion Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) program.
This marks the first time that Airbus helicopters will operate in the Canadian Armed Forces.
The FAcT Program will, over the next five years, unify the RCAF’s three current pilot training programs that are nearing their contractual end date. Ottawa will oversee the program, which will operate from bases in Moose Jaw, Southport, Man., and Winnipeg.
Once operational, the Canadian fleet of H135s will be based at the 3rd Flight Training School at the Southport Aerospace Centre.
Airbus Helicopters plans to assemble the twin-engine aircraft at its industrial plant in Fort Erie, Ont., and then deliver them to the southern Manitoba air base. The company will retrofit the helicopters with domestically developed supplemental-type certificates, which include avionics, communication systems upgrades and cockpit customization.
The H135 variant has a maximum takeoff weight of 3,000 kilograms and can carry six passengers in addition to two pilots. Its engines have a power of roughly
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
492 kilowatts each, with a digital engine control system and a maximum cruise speed of 254 kilometres per hour.
Also, its fuel tank allows for covering 632 kilometres or staying airborne for three hours and 36 minutes.
Airbus plans to start making deliveries in the first half of 2026. Meanwhile, Canada will become the 12th country to use the training variant of the H135 helicopters.
“SkyAlyne is excited at the successful conclusion of negotiations between our partners at KF Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters in Canada and we extend our congratulations to everyone involved,” said Kevin Lemke, SkyAlyne’s senior executive.
“Securing the Airbus H135 fleet for the RCAF is an important milestone for SkyAlyne and the FAcT Program, as it solidifies a core element of the program schedule,” he continued.
“The selection of the state-of-the-art H135 from Airbus Helicopters contributes meaningfully to the Canadian economy and SkyAlyne is proud to be building a world-leading pilot and aircrew training program for the RCAF while supporting Canadian jobs.”
Dwayne Charette, president of Airbus Helicopters in Canada, said entering into a partnership with SkyAlyne and the Department of National Defence is a historic moment for the company. He also thanked the RCAF for putting its trust in Airbus and its H135.
“This contract marks Airbus Helicopters’ successful entry into the Canadian military market. As we celebrate
An example of an H135 Airbus helicopter. Photo courtesy Airbus Helicopters
40 years of serving Canadian customers locally, we are honoured to contribute to the safety of Canadians for many years to come,” he added.
Tracy Medve, CEO of KF Aerospace, said the company recognized the
It is with great sadness the family of Freddie Smith announces his passing on October 21, 2024
A celebration of life was held on October 28
importance that choosing the right aircraft would have in ensuring the long-term success of the FAcT program.
“With the Airbus H135, we’re confident in a choice that meets both the RCAF’s stringent training requirements for rotary-wing pilot training and our commitment to operational excellence,” Medve continued.
Partnering with Airbus Helicopters allows KF Aerospace to not only deliver a modern training solution but also to bolster the Canadian industry with local manufacturing and assembly, the CEO added.
The agreement between SkyAlyne and Airbus also includes a support and services package, development of a ground-training solution and advanced engineering support for in-service certification.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to those who attended Freddie's service and for the expressions of condolences, cards, food, flowers and to the ladies who served the lunch.
Also, a big thank you to the ICU unit at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Hospital for your care and concern for Freddie as well as our family.
Thank you to the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company for use of the facilities and to the friends who took care of the horses, to Andrew Pratt for his assistance from the Moose Jaw Funeral Home, and to ministers Morris Grovum and Colin Brodie for a lovely service.
We are forever grateful.
Donna, Roy, Ross (Karin), Savanah (Tanner, Ryle, Paul, Xemeera), David (Wanda) Katelyn and Keely
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress. com
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 now at @10am - Instruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-6308160 or visit www.moosejawlawnbowling.com
The Moose Jaw Art Guild will hold a business meeting on November 14, 3:00 pm at the MJMAG. The opening of the Annual Art Guild Show is November 15, 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the MJMAG. The public is invited. For information call 306-631-3148 or 306-692-6667.
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. Friends of the Library Jigsaw Puzzle Sale will be held at the Moose Jaw Public Library South Meeting Room on Saturday, November 16 from 10 am to 12:30 pm. *cash only*
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
Moostletoe
Christmas Sale – Sat, Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Zion on Main Street is collecting good quality used Christmas decorations and jigsaw puzzles for the sale. Items can be dropped off during office hours. There will also be a bake sale. The event has wheelchair access and no admission charge.
K of C Father Gilpin Council #9760 Ham & Turkey Bingo will take place on Dec. 1 at Church of our Lady Community Centre –566 Vaughan St. Early Bird starts at 6:50pm. FAMILY FUN and concession.
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.
W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home Mourning Star 2024-“Heartstrings” will be held on December 12 at 7-7:30pm Gathering Music and 7:30 Ceremony at 474 Hochelaga St. W. Mourning Star Ceremony for those experiencing Grief this Christmas in the serenity of the chapel, where we will gather with others who understand the challenge of saying “Merry” Christmas. Through music, message, mementos and the gentle afterglow of love’s light, we will gather to honor the ache in your heart and the fact that there is an amplified sense of “missing” your precious loved one(s) this season. Joya Johnston will offer the gift of her musical talents to set the atmosphere of serenity.
IF YOU NEED A RIDE, PLEASE CALL: 306-6934644
BRIDGE LESSONS - It’s fun, social and a great game! Thursday evenings 7:00-9:00 pm until 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. Fur-
ther 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 questions - Call or text Cory at 306-6841464 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 organization provides communication and leadership skill training that fosters confidence building, personal and professional development in a supportive environment. Moose Jaw is home to 2 clubs: TAP and Big Country.
TAP meets on line on Tuesdays@7. TAP club is transitioning to a resource for building environmental awareness.
BIG COUNTRY meets Wednesdays@7 at Saskpolytech & on zoom(hybrid). Themes for Nov will be : Nov 13 Critiquing/Evaluation workshop, Nov 20 Ed Sullivan Show, Nov. 27 In the Neighborhood For information text 306-690-8739
TOPS SK 2149 Weight Loss Support Group meets on Wednesday evenings at the Alliance Church located on the corner of Thatcher Drive W. & 9th Ave.W. Please enter through the west facing door and turn right down the hallway. Weigh-in takes place from 6:30-7:00 pm. Half-hour meeting to follow. Are you looking for a weight loss support group and also to meet new friends? We are here for you and would love to have you join our group. Come try us out. Your first meeting is free. For more information: 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
Veteran Banner Display at the Library - A Smaller version of this display can be found in the main stacks of the Adult Library.
ADULT PROGRAMMING:
MJPL MOVIE CLUB Monday, November 18
@6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program Movie: Decision to Leave DOCUMENTARY NIGHT Thursday, Nov 28
@6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program Movie: Fire of Love
TECH TIME Available by appointment during open yours in main library for adults by appointment only. Pls call Library at 306-6922787 to schedule an appointment.
MAGIC THE GATHERING Saturdays, Nov 16, 23 & 30 @2pm in Reading Room for ages 13+.
Drop-in program
MJ CHESS CLUB AT MJPL Sundays, November 24 from 1-4pm in South Meeting Room for all ages. Drop-in program
MAKER NIGHT Monday, November 18
@6:30pm in South Meeting Room for ages 13+. Registration required Project: Bottle Cap Magnets
NOIRVEMBER ON KANOPY A month-long film noir festival Explore the gripping world of film noir this Noirvember with our carefully curated collection on Kanopy. Uncover the shadowy tales of noir cinema while recognizing its influence on storytelling and culture.
YOUTH PROGRAMMING:
TEEN D&D: SPELL
THIEVES Tuesdays OR Thursdays, Nov 5 to Dec 19 @6:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for ages 12-16 yrs. Registration
required.
DIGITAL D&D Fridays from 4-6pm at MJPL
Youth Discord Channel for ages 16-25yrs. Registration required Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire.
TEEN ANIME+ CLUB Wednesday, Nov 27
@6:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for ages 12-19yrs. Drop-in program Feature: Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.
TEEN GAMERS Wednesday, November 13
@6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 1219yrs. Snacks provided. Drop-in program.
MOVIE MATINEE Saturday, November 16
@2:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Drop-in program Movie: Barbie (PG)
TEEN ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesday, November 20 @6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19 Drop-in program Project: Friendship Bracelets
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING :
L’HEURE DU CONTE (FRENCH STORYTIME)
Lundi, 4 et 18 novembre 10h30 à la chambre des enfants pour les 0-5 ans et leurs soignants All levels of French language are welcome.
DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays Time: 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their care providers. Drop-in Program PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their care providers. Drop-in Program LITERACY CALENDARS Download November
Early Literacy Calendar for infants and preschool children Download November Children’s Literacy Calendar for elementary-aged children
BABY STORYTIME Tuesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 0-2 and caring adults. Drop-in Program
LEGO WEEKENDS! Saturdays & Sundays during open hours in Children’s Department for ages 4+; a self-guided activity.
MAKER SATURDAYS Saturdays, November 23 @2pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 8-12yrs. Registration required. Nov 23: Origami CINNAMON-SCENTED
SLIME! Saturday, November 16 @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2+. Registration required.
SNOW GLOBES Saturday, November 30 @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2+. Registration required. NEW COMICS FOR YOUNG READERS available on hoopla with your library card- Discover new arrivals from Scholastic, Disney, and more favourite comic titles on hoopla!
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 signin 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 at 1pm 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 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-Thurs 8am-8pm and on Fri 8am-4pm
Wood working area – 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.
Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.
Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm
Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm
Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm Girls Night out – November 23 at 6pm. Door prize, cash bar, crafts and appetizers. Tickets available at the front desk. Limited Tickets!!!! Christmas Craft Fair – November 30 at 9am to 3:00pm New to the Centre is BINGO every Monday at 1:30pm
Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net Check them out on Facebook.
Monday: 9:30am-Pickleball/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard/7pm-Camera Club – only on the 2nd Monday of the month
Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pmBeginners Only Pickleball
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.
Celebration of Life for Bev Stark will be held on Nov. 15th from 2 – 4 pm at the Anavets. 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.
Friday and Saturday, November 15 & 16, 2024 - “ORIGINAL COVERS” will be playing in the Eagles Club Lounge – 8:00 pm start – come out and enjoy the music, dancing and fellowship. Saturday, November 16, 2024 – President’s Charity Steak Night - $25.00 – advance tickets available at the Eagles Club Bar until Friday, November 15th – all proceeds to Cancer. 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.
Sunday, December 1, 2024 – 10:00 am to 2:30 pm – Ladies Auxiliary Bake Sale in the Eagles Club Lounge Sunday, December 1, 2024 – 4:30 to 6:00 pm – Ladies Auxiliary Roast Beef Supper - $15.00 – Advance tickets available at the Eagles Club Bar until Friday, November 29th.
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.
Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/MooseJaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm. ca
This October, Tourism Moose Jaw hosted its first Halloween pub crawl and organizers are calling the inaugural experience a success.
The first-ever spooky pub crawl took place across five participating businesses including Bugsy’s, Cask 82, Little Chicago Entertainment, Hopkins Dining Parlour, and the Canadian Brewhouse on Oct. 25.
“We’ve been doing the Prohibition Days Pub Crawl for a few years now but, unfortunately, we weren’t able to have one at the end of September like we normally do,” explained Everley Reid, the sales and creativity co-ordinator for Tourism Moose Jaw.
“So, we thought, since Halloween was coming up and people seemed excited — but there wasn’t a ton (of things) to do in town for Halloween — we decided we would try a Halloween pub crawl for the first time.”
Each pub crawl hosted by Tourism Moose Jaw helps raise funds to maintain its two trolleys. It’s also a great way to promote local business and gives residents an additional outlet for a little fun.
The night began with the purchase of an event pass — either a drinking or a non-drinking pass — and guests then visited each participating drinking establishment.
“The drinking passes got you on the trolley, and they also got you two free drinks at a surprise location,” Reid explained. Alternatively, non-drinking passes were ideal for designated drivers.
Previous Prohibition Days pub crawls were routinely held over two days and at least one of those days would be sold out.
By comparison, the Halloween edition included only one night and its 100 drinking and 50 non-drinking passes were quickly sold out.
“(The whole event) was sold out completely,” she confirmed. “Because we sold out of the drinking passes, people started buying the non-drinking passes as well.” Non-drinking passes held the same features — excluding the two free drinks, of course.
Reid said many participants dressed up and Tourism Moose Jaw held a costume contest throughout the evening. “There was some hot competition for the top spot. Lots of people wore really great group
costumes and the restaurants all seemed to enjoy it. It was busy. Everywhere I went people seemed happy.”
Contest winners have been posted on Tourism Moose Jaw’s Facebook page and
earned themselves a gift card to one of the participating bars. This, Reid said, was a way to give back to everyone who participated.
Owing to its success this year, Tourism Moose Jaw is now considering two annual pub crawl events starting in 2025. “We’ve been talking about maybe doing… Prohibition Days in the spring and the Halloween one in the fall. No definite decisions have been made yet or anything, but I would love to be able to keep doing it.
“As long as there’s interest, I would be happy to do it again next year,” she reiterated.
Now that Halloween has concluded, Tourism Moose Jaw is delaying its next big announcement — pertaining to its yearly Twinkle Tour — out of respect for those who served and continue to serve Canada and will release more details shortly after Remembrance Day.
To confirm your interest in an additional pub crawl tour or for more information, Tourism Moose Jaw can be reached at 306-693-8097 or at 450 Diefenbaker Drive. To learn more visit TourismMooseJaw.com or ‘Tourism Moose Jaw’ on Facebook.
Moose Jaw’s
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
One of the five costume contest winners in Tourism Moose Jaw’s first-ever Halloween Pub Crawl event on Oct. 25. Photo by: Tourism Moose Jaw/Facebook
One
Moose Jaw’s
25. Photo by: Tourism Moose Jaw/Facebook
One of the five costume contest winners in Tourism Moose Jaw’s first-ever Halloween Pub Crawl event on Oct. 25. Photo by: Tourism Moose Jaw/Facebook
’24: Artist Tanya MacKay to showcase hyper-realist works and launch of her new business
This year’s Moostletoe Artists Spotlight is fast approaching and eight local artists will have an opportunity to showcase their finest creations, spread awareness of Moose Jaw’s artistic community, and perhaps a few early bird shoppers can also find the perfect Christmas gift.
Moostletoe will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.
Tanya MacKay is one of the eight confirmed artists and will also be announcing the launch of her new business, Tanya MacKay Fine Art, which is set to launch on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
“Well, it’s my first time doing this (Moostletoe), so I’m excited to see who’s going to come, what people are interested in, and what they’ll buy,” she said. “Hopefully they enjoy my work….”
Moostletoe is a traditional fall event where local artists showcase some of their finest works, promote the artistic community, and guests are invited to meet the people behind these creations. The works range each year from paintings to pottery, jewelry, and photography.
Whereas the event normally includes a tour of each artists’ studio, organizers are trying something new this year by hold-
ing Moostletoe at only two locations — the artisaNGrounds studio and the nearby Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery.
Originally from Saskatoon, MacKay, her husband, and children have made Moose Jaw home for the past 10 years and she said they love their new home.
MacKay has always had a love for art.
“(For) most of my life I’ve just been doing pictures, paintings for friends and family as a hobby, and it’s been a passion of mine my whole life.”
MacKay’s business will feature an online experience and she doesn’t currently have plans to host studio tours — which works well with Moostletoe’s new format this year.
Her current focus is on the creation of convincing, hyper-realist works. “Well, right now I’m primarily working with co-
loured pencils on paper, and I enjoy doing still life objects,” she said. “I’m primarily doing hyper realism projects as well.”
Her works are quite masterful. “My kids have looked at my pictures and tried to pick up the object off the piece of paper because they felt like it looked that real,” she said.
What’s impressive is that MacKay is almost completely self taught. “I’ve had a couple of classes in my life, literally,” she confirmed. “I took an online coloured pencil course (a couple years ago) with hyper realism, and I loved it. So that’s what I’ve been doing for the last two or three years.”
To create her works, MacKay simply goes about her day until she encounters objects that catch her attention and appeal to her creative instinct. “I’m like, ‘I would love to draw that. I love the way the light is reflecting off that, or I love the edges, or I love the shadows and the shapes.’”
For MacKay, it’s usually something like autumn leaves or reflective surfaces that stand out the most. “I really enjoy capturing that (moment).”
For Moostletoe, MacKay plans to have some of her coloured pencil prints
available for purchase along with a line of Christmas cards she’s been working on. She’ll also be participating in the hourly demonstrations and will guide curious onlookers through her creative process as she continues to work on one of her current hyper realism creations.
“I think (Moostletoe) is going to be a great event for people to come out and purchase some Christmas gifts,” MacKay concluded. “And I think… it’s an important cultural event.”
MacKay doesn’t yet have an online presence or other contact details for Tanya MacKay Fine Art, but once these channels have been created her plan is to create a Facebook page called ‘Tanya MacKay Fine Art’ and ‘tanyamackayfineart’ on Instagram.
The artisaNGrounds studio is located at 262 Athabasca Street East and the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery is located at 461 Langdon Crescent.
Moostletoe ’24: Meet Beth Crabb, owner of Beth’s Handmade Basketry
The Moostletoe Artists Spotlight is almost here and residents can soon meet eight local artists, learn about their creative processes, watch live demonstrations, and maybe return home with an early Christmas present or two.
Moostletoe will take place at the artisaNGrounds studio and the nearby Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 23.
Beth Crabb is one of those artists and will be attending her third Moostletoe experience.
“I’ll have a variety of works there,” she announced. “I try and find something for everyone’s price point, from Christmas ornaments up to larger abstract wall weavings. There’ll be baskets of all different shapes, sizes, and colours.”
Moostletoe is a yearly tradition in Moose Jaw’s artistic community and includes artwork ranging from paintings to pottery, jewelry, and photography.
Crabb is well known for her basket weaving but she’s also an experienced watercolour painter with over a decade of experience. Her artistic journey began in 1991 while attending a week-long program in Crete, Nebraska.
“I went down there and learned (about)… weaving baskets, and (then I) just started ordering supplies and books,” she recalled. “I’ve done most of my learning on my own, other than that week at the beginning.”
Back in Moose Jaw, Crabb attended a few courses by a willow weaver named Dennis Tkachuk. Sadly, Tkachuk has since died but his legacy lives on through his students.
“He was quite lovely. In fact, … he
stayed with us so it was a chance to get to know him a bit better,” she said. “He actually contacted some First Nations people and learned how to weave from them. He then went around harvesting willow by hand and teaching workshops all over the province. He was quite the fellow.”
There are two primary materials used for basket weaving. Whereas Tkachuk worked with willow — which is typically hand harvested, steamed, and worked piece by piece by hand into long fibres involving a physical process — Crabb prefers rattan. Working with rattan is far less physical and requires soaking to soften the fibres.
Rattan grows as a tropical climbing palm in southeast Asia. When the raw material arrives it’s already machined into reeds of standardized widths and thicknesses. They also come in one colour — tan.
A combination of experience in basket weaving, watercolours, and pottery has given Crabb a unique perspective. “Sometimes I’ll add some seashells or maybe antique buttons… whatever kind of adds to the composition,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll find a piece of wood, like
from a beaver’s dam once they’ve gnawed all the bark off it. If I love the shape of it, and it’s just right for a basket, then I’ll utilize that too.”
Her creations are ripe with symbolism and incorporating outside elements only adds to this depth of meaning. One of these works is called “Connections.”
“Many of the hoops and swirls that I created in it intersect with each other. I was thinking more about all the connections between all of us when I did that one.”
Crabb plans to deliver a live demonstration of her weaving technique at Moostletoe and she’s excited to spend the day with other artists and meet curious guests.
“It’s always fun to get to know whoever is interested in what you’re doing,” she said.
Crabb is the owner of Beth’s Handmade Basketry and can be reached at BethCrabb@icloud.com.
The artisaNGrounds studio is located at 262 Athabasca Street East and the Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery is located at 461 Langdon Crescent.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Artist Tanya MacKay works on one of her hyper-realist creations in her home studio. Photo by: Tanya MacKay
A look at a few Christmas cards from MacKay’s line. These cards will be available for purchase at Moostletoe ’24. Photo by: Tanya MacKay
A few of MacKay’s hyper realism prints. Photo by: Tanya MacKay
A sneak peak at one of MacKay’s hyper-realist creations. Photo by: Tanya MacKay
Artist Beth Crabb. Photo by: Beth Crabb
One of Beth Crabb’s abstract wall weaving creations. She routinely incorporates objects for texture and composition, such as yarn or the stick enclosed in the centre of this piece. Photo by: Beth Crabb
A look inside Beth Crabb’s home studio. Photo by: Beth Crabb
A few baskets handmade by Beth Crabb. The raw material only comes in a standard tan-brown, so each splash of colour had to applied using high-tech, permanent cold water dyes. Photo by: Beth Crabb
