Youths aged 13 to 19 are invited to Saskatchewan’s largest drug- and alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration as Joe’s Place announces the return of Voltage to ring in the New Year with a full lineup of entertainment.
Voltage 2024 will take place at Hillcrest Apostolic Church from 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 until 6 a.m. the following day.
“It’s an all-night party, and we have a live band that performs at the countdown to New Year’s session,” announced Joe Dueck, owner of Joe’s Place.
Prior to the announcement, Dueck was concerned that Voltage might have to be cancelled — the first time since the two-year cancellation during the pandemic in 2020 and 2021.
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“Honestly, we were wondering if it was possible,” he explained. “We’ve had a very tight year financially. We had a big electrical failure that left the building in need of very expensive repairs to replace the old (electrical) system….”
With one major bill remaining, K+S Potash Canada and River Street Promotions stepped in. Renowned for supporting youth and mental health initiatives, these two title sponsors helped turn the tide.
The final push came from the Gene Murray and Edna Forbes Foundation, who “at the last minute, came in to save the day and make sure that Voltage could happen,” Dueck said. This support extends beyond Voltage and enhances the Joe’s Place Media Alliance work skills program.
The Media Alliance program plays a pivotal role in bringing Voltage to life. Its roughly 20 members have been working diligently on what they call the “Voltage Skit,” a full-scale multimedia production produced locally under the guidance of Jeremy Ratzlaff from Lampblack Studios.
Dueck said the program has been busier than ever. “We have special effects and people running down the aisles, and various surprise cameo guests in the skit. It’s pretty amazing.”
The team created an event poster and produced more videos than ever before, including a Voltage teaser shot partially in the Tunnels of Moose Jaw that’s “getting rave reviews all over social media.”
The annual theme will shift from 2023’s medieval fantasy to 2024’s superheroes.
“There’s going to be some great photo ops with various Marvel and DC heroes, and again, the big drama during the countdown to New Year’s session,” Dueck revealed.
“The title is ‘Legacy,’ and the focus… is to really show the youth that they have gifts and talents — their superpowers, if you will,” he said, adding that he hopes to show them “that they can use (these gifts) to help others, make a difference in the world, and leave their legacy on the world.”
Voltage will feature a karaoke room, Gaga Ball, Nine Square in the Air, and a gym packed with inflatables for a gladiator tournament. Highlights also include a “huge arcade” with console, VR, and PC gaming, plus Bazooka Ball and axe throwing from Little Chicago Entertainment.
The popular “Bike in a Box” competition will return for teams to vie for a $700 Canadian Tire bike by disassembling an old bicycle and fitting it into a box. Prizes for the night include a Nintendo Switch, PS5, iPad, and a standout wearable Iron Man suit to follow last year’s suit of medieval armor.
Back by popular demand will be Manitoba-based ‘The Color,’ who will return after a memorable performance in 2023.
“We just really want Moose Jaw’s youth to attend Voltage and stay safe and sober on a night that might be known for some of the negative party options,” he said. “We hope that they would rather choose Voltage.”
Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door and can be purchased at Joe’s Place, John’s Music, Peavey Mart, Hillcrest Church, or by calling or emailing Joe’s Place. It’s advisable to purchase tickets early as the event is likely to sell out.
Joe’s Place is located at 402 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-693-5637 or by email at Info@JPYC.org. Additional sponsors are welcome to reach out and will be heavily advertised on the centre’s social and other platforms.
To learn more about Voltage, visit Voltage.SK.ca.
To watch the teaser video, visit ‘Joe’s Place Youth Centre (official)’ on Facebook. You can also check Facebook and ‘joesplaceofficial’ on Instagram for further event updates.
The Hillcrest Apostolic Church is located at 1550 Main Street North.
December Specials:
MON: $20 O 60/80 Minute Pedicures
TUES: $20 O 60/80 Minute Pedicures
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Co-op’s CEO proud to support White Ribbon Campaign against domestic violence
The Moose Jaw Co-op joined millions of individuals worldwide who’ve pledged their support for the global White Ribbon Campaign, a movement dedicated to engaging men and boys in an effort to end violence against women and promote compassionate masculinity.
For Geoff Anderson, CEO of the Moose Jaw Co-op, the decision held a personal significance.
“When I was a young kid growing up in the ‘80s, my mom, sister, and I had to flee our home many times — sometimes not even with the shoes on our feet — to seek shelter,” he shared.
The White Ribbon Campaign encourages men and boys to end gender-based violence and promote gender equity. Founded in 1991 after the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, it inspires men to speak out, challenge harmful stereotypes, and pledge never to condone or remain silent about domestic violence.
Anderson experienced this violence firsthand while still a child in Calgary, Alta. “It was a really tough time for my sister, mom, and I to go through with my biological father prior to him passing away because of the violence we all had to live through for a number of years.”
At the time, domestic violence wasn’t commonly talked about and, despite first opening in 1974, the Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter was one of the first shelters of its kind in Canada but many were unaware of the services it offered.
“You know, maybe things could have been different as far as my mom seeking some help and support…,” he said. “She tried to leave him a number of times but
Hunger in Moose Jaw’s “I Bought a Lunch” campaign has exceeded its fundraising goal, raising nearly $80,000 to support its school nutrition program and continue providing daily meals to hundreds of schoolchildren.
“It went really well. We surpassed our goal. So we’re really happy to say that we made our $75,000 (goal) that we were looking for,” said Sharla Sept,
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
couldn’t. If we’d had a transition house… life could have been a lot better for my mom, my sister, and I.”
Anderson moved to Moose Jaw in February 2019 to assume the role of general manager at the Co-op. In December 2019, he accepted an award on behalf of the Co-op for supporting the Moose Jaw Transition House.
“At that time, I really didn’t know what the Transition House did,” he admitted. “When I found out what they did for the women and children in our community who are fleeing this type of violence, it really tugged on my heartstrings.”
Anderson pledged to continue sup-
the non-profit’s executive director. “And there’s some donations that are probably coming through because of the (Canada Post) mail strike, so we’ll just wait on those.”
For 13 years, the campaign’s goal was $50,000. Rising costs forced the charity to increase that in 2022 because of significant economic pressures on lower-income families.
porting the Transition House, alongside several other community programs assisted by the co-operative.
“We want everyone in our community to be safe; we want them to live proud, productive lives, and that’s why we’re a part of it,” he said.
The Co-op contributed by offering specialty White Ribbon cupcakes and donuts to get more people talking about the campaign.
“It’s not a huge money driver or fundraiser for the Transition House, but at the same time, it’s all about awareness,” Anderson said, adding that upwards of 1,600 Co-op members shop at Moose Jaw’s store
Two years ago, the agency was serving under 300 kids, but it’s now supporting over 400 — a number that arose in October instead of around June as is typical. Therefore, its services continue to be needed.
“But then we also serve children and families in other ways through our other cooking programs and our community gardens and also our Good Food Box program, as well as our pre-school,” Sept said, noting that Hunger in Moose Jaw attempts to provide an all-around food support program to help residents as best it can with their nutrition needs.
The organization’s most prominent focus is its school lunch program, providing daily meals to numerous Moose Jaw schools so children can learn on a full stomach. Dedicated staff and volunteers make the lunches fresh, with each meal featuring a sandwich, fruit, vegetable, snack, and dairy product.
The executive director thanked the
each day.
“So, if 1,600 people stand and question what those white ribbons on those cupcakes are about, we can explain it to them and that was the intent there,” he said.
All male employees were encouraged to don a white ribbon, learn about the campaign, and help spread awareness to customers with the slogan, “Our future has no violence against women or children.”
These specialty goods are no longer restocked as of Dec. 10, yet Anderson urges residents to continue supporting the cause.
One way to show your support is by reaching out to the Transition House and donating through a link on its website. All local businesses and organizations are also welcome to partake in the campaign when it returns in 2025.
Anderson wished to thank Jenn Angus, executive director of the Transition House and Kevin Pilsworth, a member of the Moose Jaw Police Service who’s also on the Transition House board along with Anderson for being a part of the campaign.
“I’m (also) super proud of our men at the Co-op for wearing their white ribbons proudly and communicating that awareness to our members…,” he added.
“Certainly, we all have a role to play in educating men — and especially our young men — on why gender-based violence has no place in the future.”
For more information about the Moose Jaw Transition House visit MJ-TransitionHouse.com or call 306-693-6511.
You can learn more about the White Ribbon Campaign at WhiteRibbon.ca.
community for its support of this year’s “I Bought A Lunch Campaign,” noting that donations from businesses and individuals were much appreciated.
Hunger in Moose Jaw accepts donations year-round through its website at hungerinmoosejaw.org or at its office at 269 Stadacona Street West.
Community Kitchen
Hunger in Moose Jaw holds several online Zoom cooking classes a month through its Community Kitchen program, with its next one happening on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 5 p.m. Chef Heather Kaylor will help participants cook a festive chicken dinner in under an hour.
The food security organization will deliver the ingredients to the homes of participating families, who then receive step-by-step cooking instructions from Kaylor. They will also learn new recipes and acquire helpful cooking tips.
“I believe the last (online Community Kitchen class) had nine families via Zoom, so it’s a really great program to get involved with … ,” said Sept, who praised Kaylor’s efforts for developing easy meals that families can create quickly for supper.
“We think it’s a great program to offer to the community … . Heather does a really wonderful job of keeping those meals well-balanced and nutritional.”
To register, email communitykitchensHIMJ@gmail.com by Thursday, Dec. 12.
Moose Jaw Co-op employees Andrew (left) and Travis (right) stand with CEO Geoff Anderson (centre) as the Co-op announces its support for the White Ribbon Campaign on Nov. 25. Photo by: Moose Jaw Co-op/Facebook
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Jennifer Warren excited for role as new MJMAG operations manager
The Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery (MJMAG) is now managed by a new operations manager, Jennifer Warren, and she replaces Violet Tang who stepped down to pursue her dream as a fiction writer on Nov. 16.
Warren began her first day of duties at the gallery on Nov. 26 and said she’s excited for the new role.
“I am excited to work in a space where I am surrounded by beautiful things,” Warren announced. “My office view of Crescent Park and hallways lined with framed photographs make my soul happy.”
The operations manager oversees accounting, grant writing, and event organizing, but limited staffing at the gallery has seen the role expand to include exhibition planning. Former manager Tang further shaped the role by applying her art history background and love for curation.
For Warren, this expanded role will include art gallery exhibition planning, research, as well as numerous small curation projects.
“The longer I am here the more in awe I am of the people who have been at this desk before me,” she said. “This role is not a small one and, although I am still learning the ropes, I can see how this will be so rewarding.”
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Originally from out of town, Warren said the arts have played a large role in her decision to stay.
“I actually grew up in Montreal, but the charm of Moose Jaw has kept me here most of my adult life,” she said. “My husband is from Toronto and we have both worked in the arts for quite a few years.
“I have always loved music and visual art, and I worked full time as a professional photographer in the Moose Jaw area for about a decade. I know and love so many local artists and musicians and have a particular fondness for the theatre world.”
Warren describes herself as “a passionate — and nerdy — appreciator of the musical theatre genre,” and said that art needs to be shared as widely as possible for our community to thrive, for our mental stability, and “for our healthy expression as humans.”
“Art and music can help us find ourselves, our stories, and our place. Galleries get to put those stories on the wall for everyone to experience. That’s pretty incredible.”
Previously, Warren worked as the front of house manager at the Centre for Arts and Culture and said she loved both her team and the eclectic nature of the job. She handled “everything from marketing
and communication to pre-production work” and executed numerous events.
Around six months ago, Warren applied for the operations manager position and said the chance to make a difference at a sister organization in town was “an
exciting prospect.” She also admires the “professionalism and dedication to the arts” displayed by museum director Jennifer McRorie — now her boss.
Never one to turn down a challenge, she said her first priority is to learn as much as she can about her new role.
“There has been so much change in the role over the past few years,” she noted. “I hope to bring some stability in this area, find efficiencies, and see how I can help organize the flow of the administrative work here.”
As well, she’s hoping to see a few program updates along the way. “I would love to see updates to the Discover Centre and help brainstorm new ways of engaging the community in conversations about art and culture,” she added.
“As a visual artist myself, it feels like a gift to come to work every day and have access to art from near and far,” she remarked. “I look forward to working with the team here to keep expanding the programs and offerings that we do.”
The MJMAG is located at 461 Langdon Crescent. To contact the gallery, call 306-692-4471 or visit MJMAG.ca. You can also follow the MJMAG on Facebook at ‘Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery.’
Jennifer Warren began her new role as the gallery’s operations manager on Nov. 26. Photo by: Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery/Facebook
JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR
Editor’s Note
I have often thought how flippantly we speak to and about each other without realizing that words have power; it’s like a force. We all know we should speak positive words of life, words of encouragement. As the old saying goes, “if we don’t have anything good to say then don’t say anything at all.”
It’s amazing how sharp our tongues are, and it can make mincemeat out of another in just a few breaths. We don’t always agree with others on the why’s and wherefores people and organizations do what they do, but those are not grounds for tearing down or defaming them. I would venture to say that although some may feel it their duty to do so, they probably don’t even have a clue as to how decisions are made. In communication, it is in the attempt for understanding that we can truly see the situation as it really is. Although we may not always agree, we can agree there is power in words so be kind in your communication.
The Power Of Words - The Frog Story
A group of frogs were travelling through the woods, and two of them fell into a deep pit. All the other frogs gathered around the pit. When they saw how deep the pit was, they told the unfortunate frogs they would never get out. The two frogs ignored the comments and tried to jump up out of the pit. The other frogs kept telling them to stop, that they were as good as dead.
Finally, one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were saying and simply gave up. He fell down and died.
The other frog however continued to jump as hard as he could. Once again, the crowd of frogs yelled at him to stop the pain and suffering and just die. But to the surprise of one and all, he jumped even harder and finally did come out.
When he got out, the other frogs asked him, “Why did you continue jumping? Didn’t you hear us?” It was shocking for them to know that the frog was deaf and all the time he actually thought they were all encouraging him to get out. He did it not want to disappoint them and therefore did not give him up till the end.
This story teaches two lessons:
1. There is the power of life & death in the tongue. An encouraging word to someone who is down can lift them up and help them make it through the day.
2. A destructive word to someone who is down can be what it takes to kill them. Be careful of what you say. Speak life to those who cross your path.
The power of words ... it is sometimes hard to understand. An encouraging word can go such a long way. Anyone can speak words that tend to rob another of the spirit to continue in difficult times.
Special is the individual who will take the time to encourage another. Be special to others. https://www.citehr.com/279-power-words-frog-story.html The
Phone:
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
Health foundation proudly continues support for Family Resource Centre’s ‘Winter Wonderland’
The Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) is proud to announce its second year of partnering with the Early Years Family Resource Centre to host “Winter Wonderland,” a family-friendly morning of activities and holiday cheer meant for children ages five and under.
This year’s Winter Wonderland event will take place at the resource centre and is organized as a free come and go event running from 9 a.m. to noon on Friday, Dec. 13.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“Winter Wonderland at the Family Resource Centre is a fantastic way for families to come and play together… and it’s a completely free event,” announced Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF. “We are excited for parents to come out with their children and have a wonderful holiday experience.”
The Early Years Family Resource Centre provides a welcoming space for families with children from prenatal to age five. The centre offers drop-in and group programs that focus on early learning, family wellness, and caregiver education, all while connecting families to valuable resources and referrals in the community.
“They’re very excited at the Family Resource Centre and it’s one of their absolute favourite things that they do throughout the entire year,” he said. “It’s (also) a great way for families to get introduced to all the services that they offer — and it’s quite extensive… — and they’re a bit of a hidden gem.
“We like to let people in the community know about these hidden gems,” McElree added.
The Winter Wonderland tradition isn’t new, and last year the health foundation stepped up to sponsor the family resource centre’s family-friendly event as part of its mission to build a healthier community — a decision that
happily continues this December.
“The Moose Jaw Health Foundation is excited to support the great work and the services that are done at the Family Resource Centre, and just to bring smiles for those children. It’s the right thing to do this time of year,” McElree said.
McElree added that Christmas can oftentimes be financially challenging for families and noted that the free-toattend event can help alleviate some of that cost burden while also providing a memorable outing for younger guests.
The upcoming Christmas-themed event will feature a wide range of indoor and outdoor family activities including horse drawn wagon rides, a music and movement feature starting at 10:30 a.m., and children will receive a take home winter activity bag.
As well, cookies and hot chocolate will be served on location to bring a little extra holiday cheer.
McElree said the upcoming event is a great way for new parents to get more acquainted with the different types of services offered in Moose Jaw. “I wish that, when I was raising my children, I was aware of… the services offered at a place like the Family Resource Centre.
“So come out, enjoy a great cup of hot cocoa, bring your children, and have some fun.”
To learn more about the services offered by the Early Years Family Resource Centre, call 306-691-0202, email Office@MooseJawFRC.ca, or visit MooseJawFRC.ca.
You can also check for new programming options on the centre’s Facebook page, ‘Moose Jaw Early Years Family Resource Centre.’
The Early Years Family Resource Centre is located at 1250 Eleventh Avenue Northwest.
MJMAG invites you to its upcoming
‘Gala in the Gallery’ fundraiser
The Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery (MJMAG) invites you to an evening of enchantment and art as it prepares to host a special night with a live art auction, simultaneous silent auction, cash bar, catering, and live musical entertainment to set the mood as it creates what it calls a night to remember.
The MJMAG’s Gala in the Gallery fundraiser is open to the public and will take place on Saturday, Dec. 14, starting at 6:30 p.m.
“It’s open to the public, so we’re hoping that people in Moose Jaw and surrounding areas — maybe even Regina — would be interested in coming out for the event,” announced Jennifer McRorie, the MJMAG’s executive director.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Organized as a fundraiser, proceeds raised through the gala will help support the MJMAG and its wide range of programs and workshops including school-specific programming, art workshops, and numerous rotating exhibits. Proceeds are also a valuable source of revenue to maintain the museum and gallery’s day-to-day expenses.
“Well, it’s kind of a special event because we’re actually holding it in the gallery,” McRorie said. “We’re at a point where we have our (current) exhibit coming down early, and so we thought we’d take advantage of having this beautiful space available to us.”
To best utilize space at the venue, McRorie said it’s being “transformed into an elegant event for the holiday season.”
The upcoming gala is set to feature a live auction containing a few select works from local artists including Yvette Moore, Jess Zoerb, Ward Schell, Peter Tucker, Pat Aldridge, and pottery by Parsons Dietrich.
“There’s actually a really nice variety of more traditional art forms, and then there’s examples of artwork that’s sort of tattoo-inspired works,” McRorie said. “There’s a little something for everyone here.” Catering will be provided by High Regard Artisanal Catering and Kitchen — a new business in Moose Jaw — and as well, a cash bar, silent auction, and door prizes will be on hand. Among these prizes are tickets to the Tunnels of Moose Jaw and future shows at the Mae Wilson Theatre, along with gift cards to numerous local businesses.
Ukrainian artist and musician Iryna Levchenko will also be in attendance and will be providing live musical entertainment on the traditional bandura.
“Come join us for an enchanted evening in the gallery for our annual gala fundraiser,” McRorie announced. “You can experience the gallery among some very inspiring artwork, an artisan spread from High Regard Artisanal Catering and Kitchen, and music to set the mood.
“We hope people come out and help us celebrate the holiday season, have some fun, and support the gallery,” she concluded.
Tickets are on sale now for $50 each and there are 100 available for purchase due to the limited capacity in the gallery. It’s advisable to purchase your tickets early as they are likely to sell out quickly.
To purchase your tickets, visit MJMAG.ca/GalaIn-The-Gallery-Ticket/Gala-Admission or stop by the MJMAG office or gift shop in person.
The Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and can be reached at 306-6924471. For more information, visit MJMAG.ca.
Oh Clark’s
Volunteers needed to support downtown Christmas goodwill program
Three groups are looking for help to support a downtown initiative that would see volunteers spread Christmas cheer to tourists and businesses while offering a friendly presence.
The Good Neighbours Group (GNG), Tourism Moose Jaw (TMJ) and the Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) have launched the second annual Christmas Goodwill Ambassador program, which runs on Thursdays and Fridays from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m.
The trio needs clubs, sports teams and organizations that would like to do community service by spreading Christmas cheer, distributing candy canes, opening doors for shoppers, and possibly singing some Christmas carols.
The program began on Dec. 5 and runs until Saturday, Dec. 21.
Carolyn Ross, with the Good Neighbours Group, explained that they are running this initiative again because they had such a good response last year. Tourists were “pleasantly surprised” to find people spreading Christmas cheer, handing out
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
candy canes and being willing to engage in conversations, something that society has lacked lately.
Moreover, the business community also appreciated the program.
“Everybody is just so busy in their own lives. We’re not a big city and we need to come back to that small-town vibe,” said Ross.
“Community is everything and we need to stop and smell the roses … . The community I was raised in, let’s bring it back,” she continued. “We’re not some big city that everybody rushes around and doesn’t know anybody.”
Ross agreed that community connection has dissipated over the last few years, especially during the pandemic when people kept away from each other. She believes society needs to return to pre-pandemic days when residents were more willing to engage with each other.
Engaging with people is important because a large part of Moose Jaw’s economy is built on tourism, with that being the third-largest industry that generates nearly $90 million annually, she said. She
didn’t think it was possible to find another community with similar numbers.
Connecting with people enhances the tourism experience while creating community because residents can shop downtown businesses and support friends and family that way, Ross continued. She challenged people to spend more time there and to shop locally regularly.
Business owners have told Ross that the Christmas Goodwill Ambassador pro-
gram is amazing, while the downtown association and Tourism Moose Jaw also believe the initiative is worth supporting.
Ross noted that the DMJA has a direct communication line to businesses, so she wanted to ensure it was on board, otherwise, there wouldn’t have been a reason to run the program.
Surprisingly, last year, many businesses donated boxes of candy canes, making it nearly impossible to find a box anywhere. This year, though, organizers have secured some funding and purchased the tasty red-and-white-striped candies.
“I think collaboration is definitely a way of getting the community back together … ,” Ross remarked. “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if every block downtown had a volunteer handing out candy canes?”
Ross is still looking for volunteers, and besides groups, individuals can also enlist and be paired with others. Organizers have secured a place where volunteers can warm up and use the washroom during their shifts.
To volunteer, call Carolyn Ross at 306-690-7609.
Acclaimed music icon Jeff Cohen to bring magic of ‘A Night in Nashville’
With less than a week to go, excitement is building for “A Night in Nashville,” presented by the Moose Jaw Co-op and the Co-op Ethanol Complex and hosted by River Street Promotions. This must-see songwriter’s round will be hosted by Joel Stewart and features the incredible talents of Damhnait Doyle, Jeff Cohen, and Phil Barton.
A Night in Nashville is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 14, from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Mae Wilson Theatre and doors open at 6:30 p.m.
“If you are in Moose Jaw next Saturday night, please come down. I guarantee you will have an amazing time,” announced Jeff Cohen, one of the acclaimed artists set to perform at the show.
“Phil Barton is just an absolute spectacle to see, and you will be so entertained by Phil… and Damhnait (Doyle) is just a treasure. I mean, she’s just such a talent and a legend,” he continued. “I’m really, really honoured to share the stage with them.”
Although Cohen didn’t launch his career until his 30s, his lifelong passion and undeniable talent for music was always evident.
“I mean, I always (played music) for fun,” he recalled. “As a late teen I started teaching myself, but I didn’t become a full-time songwriter until I was about 33 and a half.
“I worked for a music company called Broadcast Music Inc. (BMI) from (age) 23 to 33, and was very lucky to discover and sign a bunch of bands like Jeff Buckley, the Spin Doctors, Lisa Loeb, and Joan Osborne.”
When he got “inconveniently sick” around the age of 32, Cohen had to take time off work and seized the opportunity to channel his energy into his passion for songwriting. “I just decided I loved writing songs, and didn’t want to be 40 years
to Moose Jaw
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
old and say I never showed anyone.”
After “retiring” from the job he reflected fondly on at BMI, Cohen’s new career soon took off.
“It was strange that it didn’t feel strange,” he said about the experience. “I just love doing it, and got very, very lucky to get a theme song on The WB Television Network — a show called Jack & Jill — within the first year of being a songwriter.” Following this, Cohen signed on to television placements on several shows including Dawson’s Creek and Party of Five.
“I developed two artists, Evan and Jaron and Teitur (Lassen), and they both got record deals within the next few years. We were off to the races.”
Describing his personal style as “pretty diverse,” Cohen said he definitely leans towards being a singer-songwriter — especially when he’s alone in the evening —
but has been “very fortunate to work on pop, rock, pop opera, R&B — all kinds of genres.”
Cohen said there’s never one way to find inspiration for his next song. “A lot of times, I’ll write about real life experiences. Most of the time, I just pick the guitar up, or sit at the piano, and start playing.
“It’s almost like reading a book; I don’t even know what the plot is. I don’t know where it’s going and, as I keep playing, it’s revealed to me. Once I recognize what I want to write about, then I focus on that.”
Having already been to Moose Jaw as recently as 2022, Cohen said he’s happy to be returning for A Night in Nashville.
“I will say, to the people of Moose Jaw, that I still remember that weekend so fondly,” he said. “The people of Moose Jaw were so kind and so generous, and just awesome. And when Jared (Mathiesen) called, I said… ‘If I can be there, count me in.’”
When asked what he looks forward to most on his upcoming tour, Cohen replied: “I’m just looking forward to playing some songs and getting everyone singing along and then getting the chance to say ‘Hello’ to everyone after. (As well, I look forward to) raising money for a great cause.”
Proceeds from the show will support the River Street Promotions youth mental wellness fund.
“It’s going to be a great night of storytelling and song, and it’ll be a very special night. I really look forward to seeing all of you there.”
Tickets can be purchased from the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts & Culture at MooseJawCulture.ca, Tickets@MooseJawCulture.ca, or by calling 306-6934700.
For more information visit RiverStreetPromotions.com or ‘River Street Promotions’ on Facebook.
Candy canes. Photo courtesy Unsplash. com
Jeff Cohen is one of three acclaimed musicians scheduled to perform during “A Night in Nashville” at the Mae Wilson Theatre on Dec. 14. Photo by: JeffCohenMusic.com
Five retiring city employees honoured with awards
City hall honoured retiring employees Bill Howes, Caroline Dreger, Rhonda Penner, Randy Sutcliffe and Gary Couzens during its annual service awards luncheon on Dec. 4 at the Events Centre.
Below are brief biographies of some retirees, who collectively have 184 years of employment.
Fire department
Howes began working with the fire department in 1989, was promoted to shift captain in 2016 and to senior captain in 2020, said Fire Chief Rod Montgomery.
The 35-year firefighter received the exemplary service medal and the protective service medal, with the latter given to those who set high standards, strive for excellence and protect their community, the chief continued.
“He always had a working commitment, ensuring that his people were prepared. His equipment … he ensured that was always in a state of readiness,” Montgomery added. “And every day he showed up … . I knew I could depend on him. And he was my go-to senior captain.”
Mayor’s office
Dreger — who retires in January — began working as a stenographer in the city clerk’s office in 1982 at age 22, a year when some current directors were not born yet, joked city manager Maryse Carmichael. Dreger then became an assistant in the mayor’s office in 2001 and worked under seven mayors.
Carmichael thanked the retiree for her decades of dedication, service and loyalty, joking that she likely kept several mayors in line while working long hours to support them.
Dreger said afterward that her 43 years went by quickly while she enjoyed working for the city, meeting people and helping residents. Moreover, she enjoyed working with seven mayors, had good relationships with them and handled their
By
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eccentricities well, but felt it was time to retire.
“When I first worked in the mayor’s office, one thing I remember … is how people love their lapel pins, little things like that,” Dreger said, adding that in retirement, she’ll rest, volunteer and spend more time being active.
Operations
Penner began as a temporary employee in 1999 before being hired full-time in 2004, while she worked in several depart-
ments and held many roles, said Staci Dobrescu, manager of public works and utilities. Furthermore, she received the special achievement award in 2019, which was “well deserved.”
She retired in May.
Many people appreciated Penner’s care and compassion since she kept customers calm on the phone during stressful situations, such as water flooding into their basements after a sewer collapsed, Dobrescu said.
Furthermore, Penner annually hosted enjoyable office Christmas goodie exchanges, with Dobrescu joking that staff now had to make their own sweets, “which is very tiresome.”
The retiree also “made it a mission” to help less fortunate residents, especially at Christmas, when she adopted families through the Salvation Army, connected with them and asked what they needed. This made their Christmas “unforgettable.”
Similarly, Penner built relationships with staff and “was driven to make the grumpiest men walking smile,” Dobrescu said, which she successfully did through actions such as texting or calling employees on their birthdays.
Dobrescu also commended Penner for making the week bearable by singing a humorous tune called “The Friday Song.”
Transit
Couzens worked for the city from 1985 to 1998 and from 2004 to 2024 — a total of 33 years — and served as a paratransit driver during his second stint, said Krysti Johre, manager of transportation and procurement.
Couzens ensured that the rides were fun and exciting, especially when city crews were filling potholes, when he would drive over the potholes and have everyone chant out, “Call the mayor!” she continued. Many clients also wanted to be dropped off last to enjoy that frivolity.
The paratransit driver’s efficiency level is remarkable — junior drivers who ride with him are amazed — because he can complete trips in a timely manner, Johre said. Meanwhile, he is a fixture on the team — he is the longest-serving member and retires in December — and offers advice or assistance to others.
“And I’m not sure if he’s aware of this, but he’s earned himself a nickname in the office … (of) Captain Couzens,” she added. “Yeah, we have a lot of fun.”
for animal and plant life that call this upper topsoil level home. This in turn allows these soil organisms to continue to live during the winter months.
snow
It truly is winter when we are graced with a large snowfall! In spite of mountains of snow to shovel from our driveways and walkways and being forced to stay at home due to impassable roads, snow days are beneficial to both plants and to us! Plants are shaped by interaction with their surroundings and the environmental conditions shape the length of the growing seasons and the hardiness zones. As plants are not mobile, they are restricted to utilizing the resources that are in their area and to adapting to the various degrees of environmental harshness. Depending on where we live, the level of biotic and abiotic stress relates directly to our climatic conditions. The annual distribution and duration of snow is of great importance as it influences the variety of plants that can be grown that are considered perennial in nature.
This of course in turn affects the growth and survival of herbivores and this effect will continue up the food chain. Thus, the snow is of greater importance than just looking good as it plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy soils through the winter months.
Early winter snows act as a natural blanket, or insulator. The effectiveness of this insulated layer depends on the amount of snow that collects before the weather gets really cold. These early snows prevent heat from escaping into the atmosphere and by blocking cold air from moving into the soil. This was demonstrated very effectively as where I live, there was freezing rain that fell just prior to the heavy snowfall. The ample amount of shoveling of a couple feet or more of snow finally showed that sheer ice had become quite mushy. More importantly, the heat energy that is trapped by an early and heavy snow will result in a thinner frost area which is truly a refuge
Furthermore, this early snow is a better insulator than snow that falls in the bitter cold of winter. Nine inches of snow cover can make a 42-degree difference in temperature. A simple example of this would be that if the air temperature is -14, then the ground temperature would be -2 C. Just think of what we could grow if we received such a heavy snowfall every year prior to the ground freezing solid!
Another really important occurrence is that with little or no snow cover, those soils are more exposed to the freeze-thaw cycles which can be very damaging. This of course is due to the expansion factors that occur when water freezes. Bare soils are also defenseless, as they have no protection from wind, rain, and runoff while an early snowfall acts as an armor to protect soil from wind and water erosion.
One last thought to leave you with is for those of us that are already thinking about less than positive things, like all those creepy critters that damage our lovely plants we are growing! Do not worry as in next week’s column, we will focus on other little critters and what happens to all those other organisms when winter begins!
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?
Bill Howes (middle) is congratulated on his retirement after 35 years, flanked by Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Caroline Dreger (middle) is congratulated on her retirement after 43 years, flanked by city manager Maryse Carmichael and Mayor James Murdock.
Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Rhonda Penner (middle) is congratulated on her retirement after 25 years, flanked by Staci Dobrescu, manager of public works and utilities and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Gary Couzens (middle) is recognized for his retirement after 33 years, flanked by transportation manager Krysti Johre and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
City honours 33 employees with service awards, retirement gifts
Recognition was the day’s theme as the City of Moose Jaw honoured dozens of employees with service awards and thanked several who are retiring.
The municipality held a luncheon on Dec. 4 at the Events Centre to recognize 33 people — with 803 years of combined employment — including 28 employees for years of service, five for retirement and one for a special achievement award.
Event MC Craig Hemingway, acting director of strategic growth, joked that since the program acknowledged employees with 15 to 40 years of experience, the day should be called — in honour of musician Taylor Swift — “The Eras Tour, the City of Moose Jaw edition.”
Keeping the levity going, Hemingway said that he used an artificial intelligence (AI) program to write a joke that honoured long-serving employees.
“And so Google Gemini spit out, ‘What do you call a municipal employee who’s worked for the city for 40 years? A walking city ordinance,’” he said.
This prompted a few laughs and one hearty “boo!” from operations director Bevan Harlton, who offered his best comedic talents during the luncheon by joking that none of the long-serving finance staff was — or has — ever recognized.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Fire Chief Rod Montgomery also expressed some levity while presenting a retirement award, saying that he, too, attempted to have AI create a joke but learned that Hemingway had used up the program’s joke-making abilities.
Greetings from council Deputy Mayor Coun. Jamey Logan spoke on behalf of council, saying when he was first elected in 2020, what he only knew about the municipality was that it was “a large machine with many moving parts.” Moreover, he never understood its complexities until he received a behindthe-scenes glimpse.
“What that look afforded me was the opportunity to see how critical each and every one of you are to the success of the team, their shift, their department and the city as a whole,” he said.
Furthermore, Logan noticed that most employees were already working while many residents were “hunkered down” inside. He has also seen how staff work overtime when required and “answer the call” to address issues like the budget, broken infrastructure or blizzards.
Some employees are doing jobs they love, while others are performing work that they “may not find the most glamorous,” the deputy mayor added. Yet, he knew they would remain dedicated, would perform those tasks with pride, and would realize how integral they are to the city’s operations.
Greetings from the mayor Mayor James Murdock commended the employees for their decades of service and thought that that was an achievement to celebrate.
“Essentially, we are nothing without you, and you are greatly needed and greatly respected,” he said, while he also lauded their families for sticking with them.
Meanwhile, he congratulated the retirees, including his assistant, Caroline Dreger, who was leaving after 43 years, and said he would persevere after she departed.
15 years
Staff whom the city recognized for their 15 years include Heather St. Dennis in the city manager’s office; Sue Brabant and Aimee Bulwer (absent from the luncheon) from community services; Paul Busse (absent) with the fire department; Diane Campbell (absent) in human resources; and Jason Casemore, Winston Ennis, Shannon McConnell (absent) and Chris Rosso (absent) with operations.
20 years
Staff whom the city recognized for their 20 years included Paul Patterson (absent) in community services; Matthew
Crocker with the fire department; Melanie Padfield and Jamie Tatum in operations; and Gary Couzens in transit.
25 years
Staff whom the city recognized for their 25 years included Karla Terry (absent) from community services; Carla Wallace (absent) from finance; Rob Halsall (absent), Chris Luiten (absent) and Ryan Hopkinson with the fire department; Chasidy Guy in human resources; Kelly Anakaer in operations; and Bob Gagnon in transit.
35 years
Staff whom the city recognized for
their 35 years included Tracey Cook in community services; and Kate Goudie, Bill Howes and Montgomery with the fire department.
40 years
Staff whom the city recognized for their 40 years included Rick Folster (absent) and Kurtis Klemenz (absent) from operations.
Retirements
Retiring staff whom the city recognized included Howes, with 35 years; Dreger, with 43 years; Rhonda Penner, with 25 years, and Randy Sutcliffe (absent), with 48 years, in operations; and Couzens, with 33 total years during two stints with the city.
Special achievement award
The city recognized Bob Gagnon with the special achievement award.
This award honours an employee who has contributed to the City of Moose Jaw or the community. The employee is to have provided exemplary service and dedication to the municipality or have extensive community involvement as a volunteer.
Speaking briefly, Gagnon said he was shocked to receive the award but nevertheless appreciated the recognition.
Heather St. Dennis (middle) is recognized for 15 years of service, flanked by city manager Maryse Carmichael and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Ryan Hopkinson (middle) is recognized for his 25 years of service, flanked by Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Chasidy Guy (middle) is recognized for her 25 years of service, flanked by HR director TJ Karwandy and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Jamie Tatum (middle) is recognized for his 20 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Sue Brabant (middle) is recognized for her 15 years of service, flanked by land administrator Marney Loney and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Kate Goudie (middle) is recognized for her 35 years of service, flanked by Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Jason Casemore (middle) is recognized for his 15 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Gary Couzens (middle) is recognized for his 20 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Tracey Cook (middle) is recognized for her 35 years of service, while flanked by operations manager Cory Oakes and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Bill Howes (middle) is recognized for his 35 years of service, flanked by Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Winston Ennis (middle) is recognized for his 15 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Bob Gagnon (middle) is recognized for his 25 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Matthew Crocker (middle) is recognized for his 20 years of service, flanked by Fire Chief Rod Montgomery and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Fire Chief Rod Montgomery (middle) is recognized for his 35 year of service, flanked by city manager Maryse Carmichael and Mayor James Murdock.
Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Melanie Padfield (middle) is recognized for her 20 years of service, flanked by operations director Bevan Harlton and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
City employee Bob Gagnon receives special achievement award
City employee Bob Gagnon was left stunned after learning that he was this year’s recipient of the City of Moose Jaw’s special achievement award.
Gagnon received the award during the annual service awards and retirement luncheon at the Events Centre on Dec. 4. Besides the special accolade, the city also recognized the transit operator and crew lead for his 25 years of service.
Gagnon learned that he was this year’s award recipient a few days before the luncheon and was shocked because he thought many other employees who work for the city were also deserving.
“The fact I was chosen, I couldn’t believe it,” he remarked.
Gagnon initially worked at 15 Wing Air Base before transitioning to Moose Jaw transit, thinking that it would be a short tenure. However, the job “kind of grows on you,” and it allowed him to help residents and develop a love for his position.
“The city has always been good to me. And in my mind, we kind of made an agreement whereby all I had to do was show up to work every day and they would pay me all the time,” Gagnon said, noting this allowed him to support his family.
“So, for that, I’m very appreciative,” he added.
When presenting the award, Krysti
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Johre, manager of transportation and procurement, said Gagnon has a “record of exemplary service and goes above and beyond on a daily basis.” This includes coming in at 6 a.m. to ensure buses are ready, shovelling snow out of the bays so buses can leave the shop, and providing emergency assistance to residents.
“I don’t get into that one, but he’s done some pretty amazing things in his time and we’re very proud of him for it,” she remarked.
Gagnon is usually willing to work overtime if transit is short-staffed — even if he’d rather not — because, as he’s told managers, he would let a disruption happen “over his dead body,” Johre said. “Albeit a small thing, this actually quietly saves the days of hundreds of citizens who rely on transit to get to work, school, appointments, that kind of thing … .
“It’s something that they wouldn’t otherwise know is happening, but he has been a hero on multiple occasions.”
Gagnon has helped with recruiting and retaining people while he has “expertly trained and mentored” many employees on safe and timely bus operation, she said. He is also “the transit history book” because he has patiently guided many supervisors in how the department works.
Johre noted that he helped her when she held that position because while she had plenty of transportation experience, she didn’t have much in transit. Yet, Gagnon ensured that she succeeded with the city.
Gagnon served nearly 20 years on the local Unifor union executive and “fiercely advocated” for staff, she said. Moreover, he advocated for the welfare of staff from other unions who worked in transit.
“Bob is humble and kind. You likely won’t see him at high-profile events … but he is a friendly and familiar face to your everyday folks who would send him a wave and a ‘hello’ as they board the bus … ,” Johre continued.
“It is people like Bob who, on the front lines of the city services, make a difference in the everyday lives of regular citizens (and) puts the interests of transit operations ahead of his own whenever necessary … ,” she added.
“Bob is the epitome of excellence … .”
Nearly 70 area groups receive almost $100K in charitable grants
Lotteries and Saskatchewan Gaming (LGS) recently distributed $2.8 million in charitable gaming grants to more than 1,400 groups across the province, with nearly $100,000 going to 68 Moose Jaw-area organizations.
The provincial government paid out grants to charitable groups and organizations in more than 280 Saskatchewan communities, with money going to groups in good standing that conduct licensed charitable gaming activities such as bingos, raffles, break-open ticket sales, Texas hold ’em poker tournaments and Monte Carlo events.
The grants are equal to 25 per cent of the net revenue that each charitable event raises, up to a maximum of $100,000 per group or organization annually.
The following nine communities in the Moose Jaw area received grants:
• Assiniboia: Eight groups received a total of $27,367.33
• Briercrest: One group received $250
• Central Butte: Six groups received a total of $2,376.69
No
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
• Chamberlain: One group received $125
• Gravelbourg: Five groups received a total of $3,499.01
• Mortlach: One group received $134.75
• Pense: One group received $267.24
• Rouleau: Two groups received a total of $751.10
• Shaunavon: Four groups received a total of $2,220.62
• Total: $36,991.74
In Moose Jaw, 39 groups received grants:
• 13U A Canucks: $618
• 15UW TCVC Lighting: $140
• 18U Men’s Golden Ticket Volleyball Team: $452.72
• 1st Girl Guides: $582.50
• Building Blocks Child Development Centre: $1,066.16
• Friends of the Forces Fellowship: $306.88
• Journey to Hope: $751.25
• 18U AA Canucks: $490
• Diversified Services: $250
• Kinsmen Club: $11,241.63
• Little League Minor AAA All-Stars: $165
• Little League Minor AAA Miller Express: $458.88
• Major AAA Miller Express: $630.54
• Minor Baseball 11U AA Canucks: $440
• Museum and Art Gallery: $143.13
• U13A Ice: $126.68
• U15A Ice: $1,105.58
• U17B Ice: $863.50
• Palliser Heights Elementary School Community Council: $425.23
• Running Wild Rescue: $2,726.89
• Square One Community Inc.: $246.50
• U11A Ice Breakers: $266.88
• Child’s View Montessori: $174
• Church of Our Lady Parish: $3,561.56
• Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital Auxiliary: $1,500
• Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 3395 Ladies’ Auxiliary: $2,278.49
• Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizen Association: $2,816.88
• Elks No. 7: $477.71
• Fraternal Order of Eagles Club No.
3395: $3,573.09
• Humane Society: $1,968.25
• Kinette Club: $875
• Shrine Club: $10,280.01
• Skating Club: $124.72
• Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) Club 252: $2,499
• WHL Warriors Booster Club: $0
• Wildlife Federation: $997.24
• Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59: $5,067.97
• Festival of Words: $13.75
• Southwest Day Care and Early Learning Centre: $91.25
• Total: $59,797.07
In all, LGS provided the Moose Jaw area with $96,788.81.
The amount of each grant that LGS pays to each charity is calculated by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority based on financial reports and other information that groups or organizations submit. Groups can apply through SLGA’s gaming licensing process by visiting www.slga.com.
Frills announces grand opening at Moose Jaw’s Civic Centre Plaza
The Civic Centre Plaza in Moose Jaw has recently expanded its range of business options with the addition of a new grocery store this month.
No Frills is now located in the northeastern portion of the plaza and proudly announced its grand opening on the morning of Dec. 5.
The new No Frills store in Moose Jaw is part of Loblaw Companies’ push to introduce small-format discount stores across the country. These compact locations aim to offer customers cost-saving opportunities, all while adapting to changing shopping habits and rising food costs.
This location, roughly one-third the size of a typical No Frills store — as is the format for each of the new store models, which average 10,000 square feet (929 square metres) or less — reflects a growing trend among Canadian grocers to lower costs and increase discounts.
The smaller store locations, for instance, are expected to cost around 10 to 20 per cent less than a regular-sized No Frills store, according to Loblaw’s presi-
dent and CEO, Per Bank.
By reducing the selection of some items — offering five brands of spaghetti instead of 10, for example — these stores are better able to maintain affordability while streamlining inventory. Loblaw’s smaller format is intended to address ris-
ing food costs, and considers that some shoppers favour discount and private-label brands — which No Frills offers exclusively.
Bank emphasized that these smaller stores allow the company to serve communities more effectively. These smaller
stores are designed to fit into more neighborhoods, thereby making them accessible to a broader range of shoppers, according to the company.
The move is part of the company’s $2 billion capital investment plan, which will see the addition of 40 new discount stores across Canada.
Loblaw Companies Limited is Canada’s largest retailer and private-sector employer, serving over one billion customers annually through its 2,500 stores and e-commerce platforms, according to an official Loblaw statement.
The company offers food, pharmacy, beauty, apparel, and financial services through popular brands including No Frills, President’s Choice, Shoppers Drug Mart, and the Real Canadian Superstore. For any questions or for further information, the store can be reached at 1-866987-6453.
No Frills is located in the Civic Centre Plaza, located at 1251 Main Street North and adjacent to the Town ‘N’ Country Mall.
Bob Gagnon (middle) is presented with the special achievement award, flanked by transportation manager Krysti Johre and Mayor James Murdock. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
No Frills opened its doors for the first time at the Civic Centre Plaza in Moose Jaw on Dec. 5. Photo by: Aaron Walker
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Homemade loaves become thoughtful, tasty presents
A popular gift for shut-ins or friends living alone at Christmas is to receive a home-baked loaf, wrapped in Christmas colours and topped with a fancy ribbon.
Loaves baked in small foil loaf tins are the perfect size to become festive gifts — that will be enjoyed right to the last crumb.
This week’s recipes from a favourite cookbook, offer ideas for three loaves.
• • • CHRISTMAS FRUIT LOAF
3 cups biscuit mix
1-28 oz. jar mincemeat
3 eggs
1/2 cup milk
3 tbsps.vegetable oil
2 cups candied fruit or cherries
1 cup chopped walnuts, optional
Glaze:
1/4 cup corn syrup
1 tbsp. hot water
Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly grease and flour two large loaf tins.
Combine biscuit mix, mincemeant, eggs, milk, oil, fruit and nuts and mix well.
Divide mixture and pour into prepared tins.
Bake about 75 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Do not overbake.
Cool in pans on racks for 15 minutes then turn out of pans and cool completely.
To prepare glaze, mix corn syrup and hot water and brush over cooled loaves. If desired, garnish with glazed cherry pieces.
Store in a cool dry cupboard or in refrigerator.
Note: smaller foil loaf tins may be used but reduce cooking time by about half.
• • • PUMPKIN LOAF
3 1/2 cups flour
2 tsps. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
2 tsps. cinnamon
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
2/3 cup water
2 cups pumpkin puree
3 cups sugar
Sift dry ingredients.
Mix pumpkin, water, oil and eggs. Pour into flour mixture and mix well.
Pour into two greased, medium-sized loaf pans and 2 smaller pans.
Bake in a 375 degrees F oven for one hour and 15 minutes. Toothpick inserted in centre should come out clean. Smaller loaves will require less
time.
Remove from heat and cool in pans on racks. When cool remove from tins and cover lightly with dish towel to ensure loaves are cooled in the centre.
Wrap with clear wrap and then foil, and freeze if necessary.
• • • MINCEMEAT LOAF
2 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp. baking soda
2 eggs, beaten
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup glazed cherries, quartered
2 cups fruit mix
3 cups mincemeat, homemade or commercial
1 cup walnut pieces, optional
Mix flour and baking soda and then stir into a mixture of fruit and nuts.
Add the beaten eggs and milk and mix well. Pour into greased and floured loaf pans. Bake at 300 degrees F for about two hours until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks.
Remove from pans and cool thoroughly.
Cakes may be iced or left plain. Store in cool dark place. Let settle several days before slicing.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net
Community Based Coalition hosts presentation on newly expanded 2-1-1 helpline
During a recent meeting of the Community Based Coalition (CBC), the local non-profit hosted a remote presentation about 211.ca, a United Way initiative that’s sponsored by the Saskatchewan Blue Cross. The platform acts as an information hub during crisis situations and is designed to address what can be an overwhelming situation when those in need don’t know where to turn for help.
The meeting was held at the Western Canada Church of God Campus on Nov. 27, and Alison Jestadt, 211’s Saskatchewan manager, introduced the newly expanded 211.ca platform which is currently available for use.
211 is a free and confidential service that’s always available to assist with the immediate and everyday needs of individuals across a multitude of demographics. With certified service navigators and more than 15 languages supported, 211 helps connect you with over 6,000 services and resources you may need.
Several of these services include: mental health and addictions support, health care concerns, community program information, seasonal assistance, homelessness, employment and job training, housing, legal matters, income support, newcomer resources, and services for children, youth, families, and older adults.
The idea behind introducing 211 stemmed from recognizing how confusing
it can be to navigate numerous programs when facing complex problems. Many individuals in need of help often face multiple challenges at once and require help from several organizations.
From concerns about paying rent to a youth who is using drugs, domestic abuse situations, or suicidal thoughts and feelings, many who seek help often deal with time consuming call transfers, limited hours of operation, and other inefficiencies — which include not knowing where to turn.
To remedy the situation, 211 “steps in to connect people to the services they need, simplifying the process,” the official presentation announced. Starting from numerous individual scenarios, callers will get in touch with 211’s resource team who then redirect them as required.
The team is also “constantly reviewing and updating information and continually adding new services to ensures accurate and current data” to improve the service over time.
211 recently launched two new specialized sites, thanks to a collaboration with the Government of Saskatchewan.
Through a partnership with the Ministry of Education, Early Years Branch, and with the support of United Way, 211 now offers Parent Central, a network with resources for childcare matters, child development concerns or information, pregnan-
The 2-1-1 helpline is available around the clock to connect those in need with available community resources. Photo by: 211 Saskatchewan (screenshot)
cy and newborns, differing abilities, early learning, family activities and family and parenting support.
Responding to reports of interpersonal violence in Saskatchewan, 211 has also developed its Interpersonal Violence Portal in partnership with Community Safety and Well-Being, Ministry of Justice, to provide accessible support services across the province. This resource is available at Abuse.SK.211.ca.
211 also maintains a service primarily intended for men but accessible by any-
one, the Re:Connect Help Line. Trained professionals provide free, non-judgemental support around the clock and this service helps with mental health, stress management, relationships, and family violence matters.
In 2023 alone, 211.ca has received 233,261 unique site visits and was reached by 253 different communities across Saskatchewan. The top needs addressed by the service that year include basic needs (20 per cent), mental health and substance abuse (19 per cent), health care (17 per cent), income support and unemployment resources (12 per cent), and abuse or violence (seven per cent), with three percent of contacts originating in Moose Jaw.
211 is available alongside several complementary phone lines including 411. ca to find phone numbers, 811 for mental health and addictions advice, 911, and 988, a federal suicide crisis helpline.
You can access 211 at any time by simply calling or texting 2-1-1.
To learn more about 211 Saskatchewan and access the platform online, visit SK.211.ca.
To contact the CBC, Rom Jukes can be reached at 306-630-2719 or at Rom. Jukes@SaskHealthAuthority.ca.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Joe’s Place continues to recover from extensive electrical upgrade project
After a malfunction revealed the urgent need for a complete electrical overhaul, Joe’s Place launched its “Project Power-Up” campaign to secure funding to upgrade the building’s 70-year-old power system this year.
Aiming to raise $100,000, Joe’s Place has completed the majority of necessary upgrades, yet approximately $37,000 remains to complete the project.
“We’ve had a very tight year financially, (because) we had a big electrical failure that left the building in need of very expensive repairs to replace the old (electrical) system with all new, up to code electrical (components),” stated Joe Dueck, owner of Joe’s Place.
“That is mostly finished now, but we still have the last big, final bill to pay,” he added.
The power failure occurred in 2022 after one of the circuit boxes melted down. Dueck was working at the time when an employee called him to the basement claiming that something smelled “odd.” When they entered the basement, Dueck found one of the electrical boxes crackling and steaming.
“It’s never a good thing to see your breaker box steaming,” he said.
Dueck then called in an electrician and notified SaskPower, who along with an independent electrical inspector, informed him that the building’s electrical system was first wired in 1957 and now required an extensive upgrade.
Project Power-Up has nearly paid off the entire cost since, with efforts including the $8,800 raised during a late May concert featuring indie band “An Unexpected End” and pop-rock headliner “The Color.” This was
further supported by event sponsors Century 21 Insight Realty and Déjà vu Café, alongside several individual donors.
Despite Project Power-Up going well, Dueck said costs have continued to rise.
“With the inflation that we’ve all been experiencing, the project came in a lot higher than we had hoped for in the final price,” he said. “And so, we’re still trying to pay that bill, but most of the work is done so that is great news.”
This work includes several new electrical components as required by modern electrical codes.
“Our building has all new, up to date main power feeds, and all of our transformers have been moved out
onto the poles in the back alley which is a huge sigh of relief,” Dueck said.
As a lingering consequence, this year’s chemical-free New Year’s Eve celebration for youths —Voltage — almost had to be cancelled.
“Our two title sponsors, K+S Potash Canada and River Street Promotions, who are of course all about youth and mental health, they came on board and were excited to get involved again,” Dueck said. “That was amazing, and we’re very thankful to them.”
Voltage 2024 was also guaranteed with an additional donation by the G. Murray & Edna Forbes Foundation via the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation (SSCF).
Due to the Canada Post strike, this year’s Voltage sponsorship letters couldn’t get distributed. As a result, Dueck is seeking additional sponsors to help cover expenses and said each donor will receive wide promotion across the centre’s social media channels, posters, and videos.
“We’re very thankful to everyone who supported the project, but we’ve still got a little bit of a final push to go to pay that final bill,” Dueck said.
You can help support Joe’s Place at any time by donating at CanadaHelps.org and searching for ‘Joe’s Place Youth Centre — Generation Hope Youth Inc.’
Joe’s Place is located at 402 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-693-5637. For more information, visit ‘Joe’s Place Youth Centre (official)’ on Facebook or JPYC.org.
First responders in Moose Jaw collecting hygiene items for youths
Moose Jaw’s first responders and emergency services organizations are teaming up to collect hygiene items for youths to ensure they can maintain proper
while learning in school.
The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS), the Moose Jaw and District Fire Department, Moose Jaw RCMP, Medavie Health Services West and the Saskatchewan Conservation Officer’s Moose Jaw office have joined forces to acquire these necessary health items.
The hygiene drive commenced on Dec. 6 and runs until Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. Residents interested in donating unopened items can drop off the products at any
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of the five organizations’ headquarters.
The police service works closely with Prairie South and Holy Trinity Catholic school divisions and learned from them recently that some youths in The Friendly City — across all economic strata — lacked these critical health-care items, said Jay-D Haughton, the MJPS’s communications manager.
The police service and other emergency services organizations typically engage in a friendly competition during the Christmas season to collect winter clothing, socks and underwear as part of the “Fill the Squad Car” initiative, but this year, they decided to switch their focus to hygiene items, he continued.
Constables Jayme Hoffman and Kiana Perron from the police service’s community services branch are organizing this initiative.
Some health products that the five groups are accepting include deodorant, soap, body wash, shampoo, condition, face wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, razors, shaving cream, lotion, brushes, combs, cotton balls and swabs.
“We are a community police service and try to help out not only our community but the youth within it (and) getting those personal care products that they need to help them get through the day,” said Haughton.
“We’re very excited to put on this hygiene drive … and help out the youth in our community that might not have access to these personal care products.”
The police service and its partners want to collect as much as they can during this drive, so they have not set any goals compared to other initiatives they typically hold, he continued. Meanwhile, once the organizations have accumulated these personal care products, they will donate them to both school divisions and those institutions will distribute them throughout their schools.
“We really appreciate the first responders within Moose Jaw for partnering with us on this very important drive to help the youth in our community,” said Haughton. “It means a lot to us that the community is always there to support anything we do (with outreach initiatives) … .
Haughton added that residents began dropping off hygiene products at the police station only days after the announcement about the project, which he thought was heartening to see.
The police service is located at 21 Fairford Street West, the fire department has halls at 1205 Main Street North and 750 Lillooet Street West, the RCMP office is at 240 Saskatchewan Drive East, Medavie is located at 777 High Street West and the conservation office is at 206-110 Ominica Street West in the provincial court building.
Holiday Market brings vendors and crowds to Town ‘N’ Country Mall
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Town ‘N’ Country Mall hosted a two-day event on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8 with over 100 vendors — far exceeding the “50-plus” that event organizer Gail Hoffos was originally anticipating — and drew crowds back to the mall in a scene that more reminiscent of the venue in its heyday during the 80s and 90s.
Admission was by cash donation and all proceeds raised
during the market will be forwarded to support the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank.
Look for more details about the event in the next edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
The Town ‘N’ Country Mall is located at 1235 Main Street North.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Joe’s Place is located at 402 Main Street North. Photo by: Aaron Walker
The two-day Holiday Market drew crowds to the Town ‘N’ Country Mall on Dec. 7 and Dec. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Reflective Moments
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Unilingualism blamed on Scottish French language teacher
Way back several decades ago, a resident of a small town west of Moose Jaw suggested he learned as much French as he needed, not from bilingualism, but from his Corn Flakes box.
Needless to say, that comment qualified for local headlines and made more enlightened individuals shake their heads in disbelief, and embarrassment.
Since then French immersion schools are no longer novelties but accepted means to teach school students a second language.
My high school French instruction was presented in a dismal fashion, by a teacher of Scottish ancestry, who thought memorization was the perfect way to learn a second language. It wasn’t until the last few months of Grade 12 that a substitute teacher took over the class and made the lessons fun and educational.
But despite his efforts, my French capability recently received a failing grade — thanks to a young lady of perhaps fourfive years of age. She approached me with a huge smile and asked me a question.
I did not understand her, and asked her to repeat her question. She did and I
still didn’t understand.
In my dumbness I did not immediately realize she was speaking fluent French.
Her Mom was close by and suggested the little girl speak “English.” The child immediately switched her question to my only language and politely asked if she could have some hot chocolate.
Talk about feeling inadequate.
Upon receiving her hot chocolate, she said “Merci, thank you.”
At least one French word I understood as I silently chided my long-ago teacher for not doing a better job of teaching a bunch of redneck students how to converse with newcomers in our midst, individuals who move expertly from one language to another, and sometimes even a third language — two of which I cannot understand.
I do hope the youngster enjoyed her “chocolat chaud.”
A labour dispute has caused a conundrum for families who have always sent their Family Christmas letters via Canada Post.
What to do this year with those letters has forced writers to consider their options: not bother with a letter this year, hold it back until Easter or St. Patrick’s Day, or have it and Christmas cards all ready to go just in case the postal workers head back to their post offices in time to be late for Christmas.
The other option is to go digital, something I have always fought against, thinking there is a coldness to such communications. Other families have successfully adopted the practice, saying it saves them the cost of postage and their time that could be better spent doing something else, whatever that might be.
So, Housemate finished our letter and presented it for my approval. I gave it a thumbs up and added some coloured ink to show a bit of Christmas spirit in the finished product.
Now what? I guess I’d better find all the e-mail addresses for the folks who will be over-joyed to hear from us.
After the first letter came back as undeliverable, I figured this whole exercise would be a waste of my time. The letter
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
came back the second time, only with a note from the lady who had received it. She kindly noted the e-mail had been sent to her mail and even though she shared the same last name with my would-be recipient, it was the incorrect address. But she wished us Merry Christmas and I responded with the same greeting and a thank you for letting me know the address was incorrect. A new friend made indeed.
Maybe this digital Christmas mail-out isn’t so bad after all. But I will have to do something with all those extra boxes of Christmas cards bought on sale last year after Christmas.
Perhaps the strike will be over before Christmas next year so I can get back to hand-writing greetings in the cards and on the family letters.
If anyone wants an e-mailed Christmas letter from us, please share your address and our letter will be sent your way. There will be no monetary enclosures and we don’t know how to e-transfer but we will wish you Merry Christmas. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
Sask. Polytech students help shape the economic future of Moose Jaw
Students from the marketing 223 course at Sask. Polytech lent their expertise to help shape Moose Jaw’s future this semester. Through a collaborative research project with the city, these students analyzed key industries to support the city’s efforts to attract investors and position itself as a thriving investment destination.
The partnership came as a result of an earlier Discovery Kickoff meeting held in mid-September and was completed and presented to the city on Dec. 5.
“Craig Hemingway from the City (of Moose Jaw) came to our classroom and actually presented the idea (for the research project) to the students, and then students had an opportunity to ask questions to Craig,” explained Ashley Hatley, the Sask. Polytech School of Business and Entrepreneurship instructor behind the project.
The three-month class project involved 27 Sask. Polytech students who were organized into nine separate groups to conduct research and analyze their findings.
Hatley explained that the project aimed to provide insights for Moose Jaw’s strategic growth department with the aim of attracting potential future investors to the city.
The city identified five key industries — aviation, agriculture, health care, manufacturing, and transportation — as focus areas for students to gather information to help promote Moose Jaw as an investment destination.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The partnership began when Craig Hemingway, the city’s manager of communications, reached out with the request.
“They (the City of Moose Jaw) described that they had a need for some research to benefit their strategic growth department,” Hatley said. “And then, we identified a good fit with the marketing research course, which is a second year course in the marketing specialty.”
Although the City of Moose Jaw doesn’t reach out to Sask. Polytech on a regular basis, it’s not uncommon and businesses from various industries do frequently reach out to the institution.
“We have worked on projects with the city before, and (with) other businesses within the city,” Hatley said. “We’re hoping to do more of that and really kind of show the community what our students can do for them.”
To gather data for the six-phase research project, the students used a threestep approach to research. They began by collecting secondary data from credible existing source and then employed qualitative methods, such as conducting focus groups or using in-depth interviews. Lastly, the students conducted surveys to collect quantitative data for analysis.
The nine student groups delivered their presentations to the city at the school’s active learning classroom.
“One group was able to use data to support a growing interest in organic
farming in the area, so that was one of the agricultural presentations,” Hatley said.
“Another group, who is our manufacturing group, was able to find that technological innovation is a key advantage that’s helping business owners in that industry remain competitive,” she added.
“So now, we turn this data over to the City of Moose Jaw and they get to decide how to (utilize it to) best… grow the businesses here or attract new businesses.”
Hatley said the program helps teach students how they can apply their knowledge and skills to real-world projects, and described it as a win-win-win scenario.
“Students win by gaining real world applied skills that employers are demanding… the city also benefits by having students work together to gather information that helps to alleviate their resources… (and, finally) Sask. Polytech benefits by creating meaningful and engaging learning opportunities for our students….”
The Sask. Polytech Campus in Moose Jaw is located at 600 Saskatchewan Street West.
To learn more about the Sask. Polytech School of Business, visit SaskPolytech.ca/About/School-Of-Business.
YOUR #1 TIRE DEALER
WE WON’T BE BEAT ON
BRING ANY COMPETITOR PRICES TO US ON ANY MATCHING TIRES AND WE’LL MATCH OR BEAT IT!
Students from the Sask. Polytech marketing research class present their findings to the City of Moose Jaw at the school on Dec. 5. Photo by: City of Moose Jaw/ Facebook
CITY HALL
COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC. 2.
City council has renewed a contract with the company that manages the Events Centre, with the new deal moving away from a fixed-fee structure toward an incentive-focused plan.
During its Dec. 2 regular meeting, council voted unanimously to approve a five-year management agreement with Global Spectrum Facility Management L.P., more commonly known as Oak View Group (OVG360). Furthermore, the mayor and city clerk will sign the agreement for the city.
The municipality signed the initial agreement with OVG360 for management services on Sept. 3, 2019, with the current term expiring on Dec. 31.
Several sections and clauses in the agreement have been updated, a council report said.
For example, the new agreement’s proposed fee structure shifts from a fixed amount to an incentivized one, although the basic venue management fee structure remains in place at $12,587 per month. In comparison, in 2019, that was $11,000 per month.
Incentive ideas
The four incentive fee ideas that administration promoted focus on food and beverage, meetings and conventions, concerts, and improvements in the subsidy, the report said.
With food and beverage, OVG360 would be entitled to an incentive fee of 8.5 per cent of net profits from sales, which would paid out quarterly.
With meetings and conventions, the manager would be entitled to 10 per cent of the increase in gross revenue from such activities, based on the rolling average of gross revenues for the previous three operating years.
With concerts, OBG360 would be entitled to 10 per cent of net profits from those events, calculated on a per-concert basis. Concerts that lose money would lead to a reduction in this fee by 10 per cent per loss.
With subsidy improvements, the manager would be entitled to a 20-per-cent commission if the city subsidy is
New Events Centre management contract aims to reduce the venue’s subsidy
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less than required, based on the annual audited financial statements.
Reducing the subsidy
City manager Maryse Carmichael told council that the first agreement focused on the transition to a new building manager, while this second agreement aims to increase revenues and decrease the subsidy the municipality provides OVG360 to operate the venue.
During contract negotiations, administration urged the management company to increase revenues through various methods to help decrease the subsidy received, the report said.
Officials pointed out that developing an entrepreneurial culture was important to an event venue’s success since relying solely on outside bookings — especially in a smaller market — does not maximize operating results.
“Increasing the number of self-promoted annual events could add to the base activity of the arena,” the report continued.
Administration noted that the first year would be a development year and would require significant effort and planning by staff to commence such initiatives, although the first few years may not be profitable and would require management to determine whether each project should continue, the document said.
Some outdoor summer events that OVG360 could host included concerts in a park, high school sports tournaments, auto and/or recreation vehicle shows, motorsport events and rodeos, women’s hockey or other female-focused sports, the MJBEX awards, a “Taste of Moose Jaw” or powwows.
“Recently, the facility has had some success in hosting catered gatherings,” the report added. “This business segment has growth potential and should be promoted.”
Council comments
Coun. Chris Warren was pleased that the new contract incentivized OVG360 to attract more people to the Events Centre since more events and more tenants meant
the company and the city prospered. Meanwhile, he also thought it was great that capital contributions were built into the contract.
“It signifies that the company is interested in the long-term upkeep and maintenance of the building,” he added. “We know that in the past that may not always have been the case, and then years down the road, we (found) ourselves with issues.”
Coun. Patrick Boyle thought this new contract was a great approach for both parties because “everybody wins if everybody does well.” However, he thought that the city hadn’t done a good job of calculating the economic effect that the Events Centre’s activities have had on the community. So, he thought that was something they should do in the future.
Dean Clarke, general manager and regional vice-president of OVG360, told council by video that the initial contract involved plenty of “heavy lifting” to clean up the building, bring it to an acceptable administrative level, and re-acquire the trust of promoters.
“We’ve seen incredible trust come back in a hurry to the Events Centre. Obviously, there have been better tenant relations (and) great relations with the city and staff,” he said.
OVG360 was starting to manage the building when the coronavirus pandemic hit in early 2020, which caused a “big interruption” to business that made recovery difficult and long, Clarke continued.
However, he agreed that it was critical to have metrics to measure the economic impact of the venue’s activities. So, he encouraged council to conduct a study to help the venue hit its targets annually.
“I can see this incentive going up for us every year, which will mean … a win for both (parties because) it means the subsidy is going in the right direction … ,” Clarke added. “I’m excited for the future … .”
Council meetings to begin at 4:30 p.m. starting in January
The 4 p.m. start time for city council meetings has created attendance problems for some residents and councillors during the past several years, but a new time may make it easier.
Coun. Patrick Boyle introduced a motion during the Dec. 2 regular meeting to change the start time to 4:30 p.m. starting on Jan. 13, 2025, with all other meetings — such as executive and personnel — to follow.
He explained that he’s had discussions with residents about finding a balance with what would be a suitable start time, so he thought 4:30 p.m. would be good, while council could push it back even further if so desired.
“It’s more a balancing act of what is the right time for residents to attend and for councillors themselves, but mostly so residents can tune into these meetings and participate in the public discussions,” he added.
Jason
G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Coun. Dawn Luhning was OK with changing the meeting’s start time but expressed concern that council could make a habit of adjusting the time. She noted that every new council seems to change the meeting times, especially when members have work obligations.
Luhning — who thought 5 p.m. was also an acceptable hour — added that she didn’t want council to modify the time in another six to 12 months.
Coun. Carla Delaurier said that based on her conversations with residents, she thought 5 or 5:30 p.m. were better start times, especially for residents who wanted to attend meetings but worked or for younger citizens with children who may consider becoming a councillor in the future.
Coun. Heather Eby accepted the 4:30 p.m. meeting time but reminded her colleagues that city administration
must also be present to give reports and discuss matters. She noted that meetings used to start at 6:30 p.m. — the gallery was rarely full even then — and concluded around 10:30 p.m.
“We are tasked to be here to make good decisions and administration is tasked to be here to give good support,” she continued. “And after an eight-hour workday, and then (to) stick around until … it gets later and later, I don’t think great decisions are made after a certain time of day or night.”
Eby recommended that this adjustment to council’s meeting time be the only change they make for their fouryear term, while the next council can do what it wants with meeting times.
Council then voted unanimously to accept the motion.
Crews removed 18 more infected trees this year than in 2023
City crews removed 18 more trees this year than in 2023 that were infected with Dutch Elm Disease (DED), an increase partially attributed to the loss of an effective DED-fighting chemical.
Between July 1 and Sept. 30, 40 trees tested positive for the disease, while crews removed 103 infected trees compared to 85 last year, according to a third-quarter report presented during city council’s recent meeting. Many trees that crews removed were on private properties and in Wakamow Valley.
Coun. Heather Eby commented on the increase in DED-infected trees and wondered whether that would continue and how the municipality could mitigate that problem.
“It is unfortunate (that) the numbers have been climbing the last few years,” said Derek Blais, director of community services. “One of the contributing factors would be some of the proactive chemical applications we’ve done in the past — the chemical we were using — is no longer available to us, so we’ve had to eliminate that program.”
Residents can help by calling city hall when they see a DED-infected tree, which will prompt crews to go look, he continued. Furthermore, crews usually do two annual inspections across the city to determine trees’ health. “Anytime we can be proactive on catching early symptoms, it really helps contain any future spread,”
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Blais added.
Blais’ Q3 report said that his department planted eight trees in Crescent Park to replace the ones that had been removed. He also told council that his department wants to replenish the areas — particularly in older subdivisions — where crews have removed trees.
Other park issues
The Next Gen Car Club hosted its annual show in Tatawaw Park — formerly the Old Wild Animal Park — in late September, which proved to be popular, said Eby. However, it also increased traffic in that area of South Hill.
So, Eby hoped the community services department could do something next year to prevent similar issues from happening.
Meanwhile, she noted that the department had developed a plan in Q3 to replace the two stone staircases on the north side of Crescent Park to make the area more accessible, with crews to begin the work once funding is available.
She wondered if that work was scheduled in 2025 or just something the department hoped would happen. She also wondered if concrete would replace the rock stairs.
With the car show issue, Blais said he spoke with his recreation team and they plan to contact the car club and Moose Jaw Police Service to attempt to contain those disturbances next year.
Regarding the Crescent Park matter, he said that the department doesn’t have a final design yet and will “budget appropriately” once cost estimates are known. Furthermore, community services would work with the in-house grant writer to find funding and talk with the Crescent Park Foundation about partnering on this.
Blais added that the proposed design would see concrete stairs installed so they are safer and easier to maintain, while the department is considering installing pedestrian ramps on the Athabasca Street side for accessibility.
Merging departments
Eby inquired about the planning and development department and the parks and recreation department, which merged into the department of community services during Q3. Although it was still early, she wondered whether the merger was meeting administration’s expectations.
“It’s definitely added a lot more (work). We have a number of vacancies in that area that we need to fill to really see some of the benefits,” said Blais, who noted that staff will be less overburdened once a manager of planning and development is in place.
Meanwhile, the integration of staff from both departments has gone well, and he has found it to be a pleasure to work with employees in planning and development.
“We’re looking forward to some big changes happening here in 2025,” Blais added.
CITY HALL
COUNCIL
NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC. 2.
City council has officially cleared the way for Moose Jaw’s Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59 to move into its new, more accessible home on Fairford Street West.
During its Dec. 2 regular meeting, council voted 6-0 to approve the Legion’s discretionary use application for a “private club” at 693 Fairford Street West. The veterans’ organization — which currently operates at 268 High Street West — intends to use the existing building on the site as an office and meeting space for its members.
As part of this process, city administration rezoned the property from M2f2 heavy industrial and flood fringe 2 overlay districts to M1f2 light industrial and flood fringe 2 overlay districts.
Coun. Jamey Logan declined to vote because he owns the building.
The zoning bylaw lays out criteria that council must consider when reviewing discretionary use applications, such as ensuring that the project conforms with the Official Community Plan (OCP) and detailed land use, servic-
Legion gets council’s OK to move into new Fairford Street home
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
ing or renewal studies, a council report said.
Furthermore, “private clubs” are discretionary in the M1 light-industrial district, M3 mixed-used business park industrial district, C2 high-density commercial district and C3 vehicle-oriented commercial district, while they are prohibited in all other districts.
“The city does not currently have a zoning district that allows private clubs as a permitted use, therefore, any proposal of a private club would require city council approval,” the report said. “(Meanwhile), there are no records within the last nine years of a private club proposal.”
City administration did not expect the Legion’s new home to have much of an effect on the existing infrastructure, pointing out that the site has two access points from Seventh Avenue Northwest and entry to the west side and rear for on-site parking. Moreover, the existing parking exceeds the required six standard and one accessible parking stalls for a building of this size and use.
The parking lot will remain gravel, but if the Legion wants to pave it, it must submit a grading plan that identifies on-site drainage patterns, the report said. Meanwhile, the organization does not propose landscaping the area but will renovate the interior and must acquire a developing/building permit for that activity.
The Legion’s new home isn’t expected to affect adjacent land uses or increase traffic too much since Fairford Street West already hosts various businesses, the document continued. Most area land uses are for warehouses, storage and contractor offices and yards, so those aren’t expected to conflict with a “private club.”
City hall issued public notices to property owners within 90 metres about the proposed venue and zoning changes while it also advertised the announcement on its website and in the Moose Jaw Express, the report added. However, the city received only two comments, and none of them were negative.
City hall admits that app needs fixing to better address concerns
It took city hall nearly 40 days during the third quarter to resolve certain issues it received through its app, although some resolution times may have been “skewed” because of technical difficulties.
City administration presented a report during the Dec. 2 regular city council meeting about city hall’s activities from July 1 to Sept. 30. Councillors inquired about some information, including the average time it took staff to resolve concerns.
The report showed that, on average, it took city hall one day to address transit issues, 12 days for sewer problems, 16 days for street signs and traffic lights, 29 days for streets and roads, 30 days for capital projects, 37 days for sidewalks and 39 for trees.
Meanwhile, the top five issues were streets and roads (608 tickets), garbage (441), bylaw enforcement (272), trees (265) and recycling.
Coun. Dawn Luhning wondered if those resolution-time numbers were “skewed slightly” because of the situation where residents submitted ticket complaints and were informed the situations had been resolved when they hadn’t.
“I hope we can have a conversation around how we’re going to fix that piece of it. But my guess is those resolution times are skewed because … I know even a handful of them I had last week weren’t resolved when they’re saying they are,” she said.
Most departments do not indicate that a ticket issue has been resolved until staff finish addressing it, although
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there are some instances where complaints about issues like sidewalks are shown as resolved but were put on a work list, said city manager Maryse Carmichael.
“But I understand absolutely for the residents (that) it is not resolved, although the (request for service) indicates that,” she added. “So we are in the process of making a change.”
With those complaints and the average resolution times, the one piece that’s missing is a metric to measure residents’ satisfaction afterward, said Coun. Patrick Boyle.
Council may have to review that at budget time since there is a difference between how city hall resolves matters and what citizens see on the streets, he continued. While municipal officials may consider issues closed, residents may disagree.
Carmichael replied that city hall does not measure residents’ satisfaction other than through direct feedback that people provide afterward.
Requests for service
The Q3 report featured statistics about residents’ requests for service (RFS), with the category of “streets and roads” seeing 608 inquiries, Coun. Chris Warren said. By quarter’s end, crews had resolved 221 complaints and left 387 unresolved — a completion rate of roughly 36 per cent.
He then pointed back to the average resolution time stats, which showed that five categories required an average of 29 days or more to conclude. The councillor won-
dered whether such times were to fix the problem or to respond to citizens.
Most outstanding service requests are about road maintenance, and during the second and third quarters, city hall left those requests unresolved until crews completed them, said Bevan Harlton, director of operations. Many issues are about potholes and sidewalk deficiencies that crews have inspected but not rectified.
Warren said he understood that it might take an entire construction season to fill potholes since resources were limited. However, he wondered whether city hall had service-level standards for responding to residents’ concerns or informing them that the work had been completed.
Warren added that he experienced a situation where he submitted a service request and then waited several months to hear back, wondering whether his submission had been received and whether it was in a work queue.
City hall has 48 hours to confirm that it has received the inquiry after looking at it, while it is working to communicate about whether crews have done the work, responded Harlton. However, that is one limit to the current system.
City manager Maryse Carmichael said that changes could be coming in 2025 with how the city communicates with residents about their service requests, while the next goal is to develop metrics that analyze the service the city provides citizens.
Metrics would say if city is meeting project targets, councillor says
Coun. Chris Warren appreciated the information about city hall’s activities during this year’s third quarter but believed that metrics were required to judge whether the city was meeting its targets.
City administration presented the Q3 report during city council’s recent meeting, with the document summarizing departments’ activities from July 1 to Sept. 30.
While reviewing the report, Warren asked directors whether they had “key performance indicators” (KPI) that they applied to areas — such as building permits — or standards or targets that they wanted to achieve with initiatives, such as the number of crosswalks painted or sidewalks rebuilt.
The report showed that during Q3, city hall issued 161 building permits worth $4.9 million, whereas in Q3 2023, those numbers were 125 and $58.1 million.
Furthermore, the operations department completed 997 square metres of sidewalks, 163 linear metres of curbs and gutters, 64 pedestrian ramps, 51,535 square metres of asphalt restoration and 1,374 square metres of concrete work.
Also, crews painted 274 crosswalks and 47,881 metres of lane lines.
Warren thought it was great that crews painted 274 crosswalks but wondered how many the city had in total and whether it had painted them all this year. Having that information would keep him better informed about whether the city was on track with completing its initiatives.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Meanwhile, he understood that there were many complexities with projects but knew from other experiences how well KPIs worked. Such indicators helped tell the community’s story, identified gaps, demonstrated what employees achieved, and added or reprioritized resources.
City hall doesn’t have any KPIs with the building permit process, although that’s something staff are reviewing, said Derek Blais, director of community services. The problem, however, is that staff need time to work on permits but regularly receive inquiries from realtors and contractors, so permits aren’t approved.
“We have a few things we’ll be looking to implement here early next year, but until then, it will be a work in progress,” he added.
With infrastructure projects, the operations department relies on a condition assessment report to guide its work with repairing sidewalks or installing gutters, said Bevan Harlton, director of operations. To apply KPIs to projects, the department would have to rely on an asset management-type plan, which would be useful in advocating for the necessary infrastructure upgrades.
An assessment report that staff completed this year showed that 56 per cent of roads are in fair or below-fair condition, while the work crews perform on below-fair roads will keep those streets going for only a brief time, he continued.
Meanwhile, the operations department expects to upgrade sidewalks — either piecemeal or part of a full
block replacement — based on 150- to 200-year replacement cycles, which makes it tough to keep up, the director added.
Thunderbird bridge
During Q3, city crews used 137.16 tonnes of asphalt to repair the Thunderbird Viaduct, a fact that Coun. Heather Eby appreciated since she and many others were excited about the work happening and the bridge reopening.
However, she noticed over the summer — and heard from residents — that the asphalt didn’t stick in place or do the job many thought it would. She understood people’s frustrations but pointed out that the city is limited in the equipment it can use on the bridge.
Crews applied that 137 tonnes by hand while working on a 93-year-old structure that has a 10-ton limit, so city administration appreciated the work they did with the resources they had, said Harlton.
Scouts Hall building
City hall had a structural assessment performed on the Scouts Hall building in West End Park to determine if it was safe enough in which to work, as it expects demolition to occur in mid-2025.
When asked about the report, Blais said it was needed to ensure contractors could enter the building to remove hazardous materials before demolition occurred, as department staff were unsure whether the structure was safe. However, the assessment says people can enter so that demolition will proceed.
Some taxpayers question size of city’s reserves
The new city council will face questions from taxpayers about the city’s $110 million in reserves.
Two lines of thought exist about these reserves. One wants to spend them to complete needed infrastructure upgrades like water and sewer lines.
Another group would like the reserve system to stay intact, thus reducing the property tax load and giving the city options for big projects.
The money in the reserves belongs to the taxpayers but much of it wasn’t raised by taxation.
The city’s main capital reserves date back to the 1950s when the city sold franchise rights for electric power to the new SaskPower Corporation.
From that amount, the capital reserves have grown to $36 million, according to the 2023 financial statements.
The reserves grew from the practice of only spending the annual return above the rate of inflation. If the return on investments of reserves is four per cent and inflation is two per cent the city only takes two per cent for city use.
The plan is intended to maintain the reserves’ purchasing power in the future.
Most of the major projects in this city have been funded by the reserves — the first Buffalo Pound water plant, the city yards, city hall, Kinsmen and Pla-Mor Palace arenas and the swimming pool, library and art museum, Events centre, Yara centre, cultural centre — to
name some.
Along the way money from the reserves has financed other street and road projects
Aside from the $36 million capital funds, the city has a number of reserves that have been built setting aside property taxes for future needs so taxes don’t jump over the moon and borrowing can be limited.
The largest are the equipment reserve, $30.7 million; solid waste, $13.9 million; and the land reserves of $16.8 million. The land reserve comes from sale of lands for commercial and residential projects.
Without the cash spun off from reserves taxpayers would be digging for an extra 19 per cent every year. Our home taxes would jump from about $3,000 to about $3,600.
And the city wouldn’t have most of the amenities it enjoys.
The city could spend the reserves by giving taxpayers a three year tax holiday, leaving them with much higher taxes in the fourth year.
And the city would no longer have the flexibility to complete public projects without borrowing or stiff tax increases.
City policy was to invest the reserves in quality bonds. When those returns were barely higher than inflation rates the city changed the investment policy.
By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
In 2019 the city invested reserves in two stock portfolios — one long run currently worth $82.6 million and one short-term worth $26.4 million.
To the end of September those portfolios had generated almost $35 million, about equal to one year’s property tax revenues. A nice chunk of that money was used for projects and kept property taxes from increasing further.
The city still has about $40 million cash on hand for day-to-day needs.
The decision to move from safe investments to the stock market was risky. So far it has succeeded beyond hope.
But a 30 per cent decline in the market as many analysts forecast would cut deeply into the nest egg, even though the blue chip stocks in the portfolios would likely not fall as far as the market in general.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Keon’s hold first-ever market to support Humane Society and support local vendors
With the goal of helping the Moose Jaw Humane Society and to encourage residents to shop local, Keon Garden Centre held its first-ever Maker’s Market on site with table rental fees going to support the local animal shelter.
The market involved approximately 23 vendors and ran from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 7.
“At this time of year, our greenhouses are full of Christmas trees, but we knew that this weekend we’d be almost sold out and have a nice empty greenhouse,” announced Marcy Duffey, owner of Keon Garden Centre.
With the ongoing Canada Post strike and a limited courier availability, Duffey added that her mission was to also encourage more people to shop local.
“People need to shop local. When they buy things, they need to touch them, feel them, and it’s much easier to make a purchase that way,” she said. “So, what a better way (to achieve this) than through local vendors.”
The extra space was available because of a successful year of Christmas tree sales. “We had over 200 (trees available) and now we’re down to about 10,” she said about the northern Saskatchewan-sourced evergreens.
The Maker’s Market included a visit from Santa Claus, who was on hand to take photos with several dogs who attended with their human companions. Additionally, the U17 girl’s volleyball team ran an onsite canteen featuring baked goods with proceeds supporting their upcoming nationals tournament.
The garden centre’s fundraiser was set up in support of the Humane Society due to the shelter’s close proximity and Duffey said the two businesses often work together. “We’re good neighbours; we help each other out all the time.”
This sentiment was shared by Donna Fritzke, the fundraising co-ordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society.
“We are so thankful for Keon Garden Centre,” Fritzke said. “They (Keon’s) do a
lot of amazing things to help out the shelter with its parking lot and they’re always there for us if we need a hand.”
One of the event’s vendors, Kaelyn Baylis with Bliss, said she was kept quite busy and noted that most other vendors she spoke with seemed to be doing fairly well.
“We (at Bliss) offer all kinds of sublimation items, so it could be tumblers or mugs. We specialize in wind spinners as well, and we do a lot of customization — like, we can put pretty much anything you want on a mug or a spinner,” Baylis announced.
Baylis said that she decided to partake in the market because of her support for both the greenhouse and the Humane Society. “Well, I love Keon’s, so it’s a perfect place for a market,” she said. “(There are) great people at Keon’s… and it’s been a really good day.”
Another vendor, Brianna, was attending to sell a few of her homemade arts and crafts — all of which made excellent stocking stuffer ideas.
After witnessing a successful run, Duffey hopes to expand the market into two greenhouses next year. The smaller inaugural run, she explained, was to test the waters.
“We are always overwhelmed by the community and by the support that they have for the shelter,” Fritzke said. “Our Christmas hoodies (were re-ordered) four times and we sell out within a couple of days, so that’s phenomenal.
“We’re just so blessed that people support the shelter. Every hoodie and every crew neck is a walking billboard for us, and if we can bring attention to the needs of the pets at the shelter, then we’re just so excited to work with everyone.”
Keon’s will remain open until Monday, Dec. 23 with a wide assortment of Christmas gift ideas on hand including porch pots and greenery. After that, the greenhouse will remain closed until a date to be determined in March 2025.
Keon Garden Centre is located at 1645 Stadacona Street West and can be reached at 306-693-6771. For more information visit KeonGardenCentre.ca or follow ‘Keon Garden Centre’ on Facebook.
Donna Fritzke (left) is joined by a staff member at the Moose Jaw Humane Society at Keon Garden Centre on Dec. 7. The animal shelter was the beneficiary of the market fundraiser. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Kandy, an employee at Keon Garden Centre, showcased some of her hand stitched quilts at the inaugural Maker’s Market on Dec. 7. These quilts remain available for sale throughout the year at the greenhouse. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Chris Zumstein with Zumstein’s Apiary Ltd. attended the Maker’s Market to showcase his range of locally sourced honey and beeswax products.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Brianne attended the Keon’s Maker’s Market to offer a wide selection of arts and crafts that were perfect for stocking stuffer ideas. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Kaelyn Baylis with Bliss attended the Maker’s Market at Keon’s on Dec. 7. Photo by: Aaron Walker
three these amusing little booklets can easily be read in one afternoon. I assume that the authors felt a need to convey important messages in a manner more accessible than in niche periodicals or academic journals.
On Indignation.
Don Watson.
Melbourne University Press. 83 pages, 14.9 x 11cm
disgruntlement that the phenomenon unlocks. This creates the urgency, the imagined smell of sweat, aggression and stale rations and, above all, the noise of democracy on its original war footing.”
Watson’s lively and humorous style is a pleasure to read, but by and large the booklet does not much explore the phenomenon and I doubt that readers will learn much about indignation as such, and little about the stimuli which elicit it.
On Bullshit.
Harry G. Frankfurt. Princeton University Press, 67 pages, 16 x 10.5 cm.
There is a difference between lying and bullshitting, also between bullshit and humbug, and Frankfurt spends a number of somewhat opaque pages on these differences.
As an attempt to get away with something, lying is a deliberate, conscious attempt to convey a falsehood to the listener, whereas bullshitting is not concerned with the truth – it may be true, but if so, it is purely coincidental and Frankfurt describes it as largely not lying.
The New Philistines.
Sohrab Ahmari. Biteback Publishing Ltd.
An introduction of XVII plus 107 pages. 18.4 x 12 cm.
Ahmari examines aspects of the modern art scene, starting with a production of Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream, clearly directed by a follower of regietheater – a school of thought which can hardly be described as a crowning achievement of Western art.
“Indignation is the ground bass of the Old Testament.” The indignation of Yahweh, of the wicked and of the good, of God’s people on his behalf and on their own, all get their turn, as do TV newsreaders and politicians. Nobody escapes Watson’s amusing and often scathing pen: “What does it profit a man to throw his custard at the wall?” he asks, and I must admit to a giggle at this sentence: “… caricatures of manic power, passing judgement much as horses pass wind and with as much resort to reason or proportion.”
Like Megan Markle, liars try to convince listeners about “their truth,” while bullshitters are mostly concerned with the impressions they create on the listener(s).
Watson sums up his thesis as follows:
“What matters [in indignation] is the general venting, the release of social steam, and the atmosphere of general
According to Frankfurt, bullshit is a greater danger to truth than lies, because bullshitters ignore or hide truth. I must admit that this distinction escapes me.
The next question Frankfurt asks is: why is there so much bullshit? He devotes a considerable number of words to discussing this seemingly difficult problem. The glaringly obvious answer seems to have entirely escaped his attention: politicians, bureaucrats, advertisers and businessmen, to name just a few, are enthusiastic practitioners of this art form because they need it for survival. Anyone who can benefit from bullshit will practise it.
While the subject is interesting, the book isn’t very well written. As far as I know this is the first printed examination of the subject and as such may be a stimulus for those whishing to examine this subject further. He did not inspire me to do so.
Drawing on articles published in the leading British journal Artforum, he shows that modern art is more concerned with identity politics than art itself. Artists have made liberal use of the freedom granted by Western civilization – inasmuch as there is such a beast – but, ironically, this artistic freedom, as far as viewers are concerned, has been reversed.
The demand for freedom (and the desire to shock) is still there, but is overshadowed by the imposition of a worldview which forces theories of social justice and critical theory on the viewer – in fact, the modern art world has become deeply conventional and governed by trendy politics, focussing on identity politics instead of beauty, which Ahmari unfortunately does not attempt to describe. It is now engaged in a Foucaldian enterprise to overthrow perceived oppression in all its real or imagined shapes.
The problem of course lies deeper than just art - the personal is political, as Carol Hanisch said way back in the 1960’s, and so art has also become political. By itself not necessarily a bad thing since art should among other things focus on injustice, as many artists have in the past. But that was then and this is now; the rise of identity politics and Foucaldian power struggles have changed the scene, perhaps irrevocably.
I found this booklet an absorbing read, with well thought out arguments. It will be well worth another visit a few years from now.
Keon’s first Maker’s Market sees $700 donation to local animal shelter
With the goal of supporting the local animal shelter, Keon Garden Centre held its first-ever Maker’s Market on site at the greenhouse and owner Marcy Duffey was proud to hand over a check from the event’s proceeds to Donna Fritzke on behalf of the Moose Jaw Humane Society.
The cheque was made out to the Humane Society in the amount of $700 and delivered near the end of the Maker’s Market on Dec. 7.
“We are so thankful for Keon Garden
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Centre,” announced Donna Fritzke, the fundraising co-ordinator for the Moose Jaw Humane Society. “They (Keon’s) have planned this entire (Maker’s Market) event and it’s so much fun.”
The Maker’s Market featured around 23 vendors whose contributions ranged from beeswax candles and honey to custom-designed mugs and spinners, and included a range of other arts and crafts.
The market also saw a special visit from Santa Claus, who was on hand to
take photos with pets who accompanied their owners to the venue, and the U17 girl’s volleyball team ran an onsite canteen to help raise funds for their upcoming nationals tournament.
The garden centre’s fundraiser was set up in support of the Humane Society due to the shelter’s close proximity and Duffey said the two businesses often work together. “We’re good neighbours; we help each other out all the time.”
Keon’s will remain open until Monday, Dec. 23 with a wide assortment of Christmas gift ideas on hand including
porch pots and greenery. After that, the greenhouse will remain closed until a date to be determined in March 2025.
Keon Garden Centre is located at 1645 Stadacona Street West and can be reached at 306-693-6771. For more information visit KeonGardenCentre.ca or follow ‘Keon Garden Centre’ on Facebook.
The Moose Jaw Humane Society is located at 1755 Stadacona Street West and can be reached at 306-692-1517. For more information visit MJHS.ca or follow ‘Moose Jaw Humane Society’ on Facebook.
Two Humane Society staff members (left) and Santa Claus attend the official $700 donation from Keon’s owner, Marcy Duffey (second from right with child), which was presented to Donna Fritzke (right) on behalf of the shelter on Dec. 7. Photo by: Aaron Walker
All
By Leon Retief
Leon Retief is a retired physician with clinical and research experience. He likes drinking wine, listening to music and reading.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Book Image: Amazon.ca
Book Image: Amazon.ca
Book Image: Amazon.ca
Swift Current Broncos
score pair in second to take win over Moose Jaw Warriors
Thorpe scores Teddy Bear Toss goal for Moose Jaw as Warriors drop 3-2 decision
You can add Riley Thorpe to the list of Moose Jaw Warriors who have scored the Teddy Bear Toss goal for the local Western Hockey League squad.
The 16-year-old forward sent the bears flying with 6:28 to play in the second period on Friday night at the Moose Jaw Events Centre after scoring his second goal of the season.
Unfortunately for the local squad, the final result wouldn’t be in their favour as they dropped another close decision, this time 3-2 to the Swift Current Broncos.
Moose Jaw fell to 6-17-3-1 with the loss and remain in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, while Swift Current improved to 15-11-0-1 and moved into sole possession of third place.
While the result wasn’t what they wanted, it was still a great moment for Thorpe, who is in his rookie season with the Warriors.
“It was definitely special,” he said. “It was a nice three-on-two coming down and Hughy (Ethan Hughes) made a play over to Fads (Landen McFadden) and he sent me a nice pass backdoor, then everyone started jumping and it was a really special moment.
“I actually didn’t even realize I’d scored until the lights started going off and everything, and then I was ecstatic. It was pretty sweet that it happened.”
Of course, falling a goal short on the scoreboard dampened that moment, with the team continuing to search for ways to get the big goals that help win games.
“We’re not completely happy with how that one turned out,” Thorpe said.
Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.cm
The Moose Jaw Warriors gather for the traditional team photo after Riley Thorpe scored the Teddy Bear Toss goal,
“We’re still hoping to continue to get better and win some more games as the season goes on… we just have to have more effort and more compete, and we have to be first on races and battles and not fall short.”
Swift Current received the first power play of the game 4:15 into the contest, and they’d make it count, with Rylan Gould perfectly tipping a point shot from Brady Birnie into the corner of the net. The game’s opening goal came with 5:27 gone in the frame.
The Broncos had the lion’s share of chances through the remainder of the period, but Warriors goaltender Brady Smith -- making his debut in front of Moose Jaw fans -- made a handful of big saves in close to keep it a one-goal game.
The second period was largely uneventful for the first 10 minutes, with the
Warriors’ Lynden Lakovic having one of the best chances on a goalmouth scramble, only for Broncos goaltender Joey Rocha to successfully spawl and keep the teddy bears in the stands.
Teddy Bear Toss goal scorer Riley Thorpe (right) and set-up man Landen McFadden pause for a photo while clearing the ice.
Swift Current would extend their lead with 8:27 to play in the period. Gould scored his second of the game on the power play, finding the puck in a goalmouth scramble and stuffing it home for the 2-0 lead.
Two minutes after that goal, it was time for the bears to fly.
The 3,198 fans in attendance ended up filling the beds of three pick-up trucks, with many more stuffed inside the cab.
The bears, toques and mittens will all go to the Salvation Army in support of their annual toy drive to help ensure every child has toys under the tree on Christmas.
The good times didn’t last long, though, as Swift Current increased their lead to 3-1, as Dawson Gerwing scored with 2:17 to play in the frame.
There things remained until 6:09 remaining in the third period, when Rilen Kovacevic jumped on the rebound off a Connor Schmidt shot in close and ripped the puck top shelf glove side.
The goal continued the overage forward’s ongoing hot streak, as he now has nine goals in the Warriors’ last seven games.
Moose Jaw would pull Smith for the extra attacker with 2:14 to play, but it would be for naught, and they’d have another one-goal loss on their ledger.
Smith finished with 36 saves, while Rocha turned aside 28.
The Warriors are back in action Tuesday when they travel to Prince Albert, while Swift Current is back on the ice Saturday when they host the Red Deer Rebels.
Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors post back-to-back wins over Mintos in Prince Albert
Warriors take 7-4 win Saturday and 4-1 win Sunday to continue hunt for top spot in SMAAAAHL
Another weekend, another two wins for the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors.
Only this time, it was on the road against an opponent right behind them at the top of the Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League standings.
The Warriors took a 7-4 victory over the Prince Albert Mintos in Prince Albert on Saturday and followed up with a 4-1 win on Sunday, improving to 17-4-2 on the season and continuing to hold down a tie for second place with the Swift Current Legionnaires, a point back of the Regina Pat Canadians.
Prince Albert dropped to 14-8-2 and are in fourth place, now six points back of the Warriors after sitting two back heading into the weekend.
Warriors 7, Mintos 4
Moose Jaw couldn’t have asked for a better start in the weekend opener, as they built a 5-0 lead heading into the third period before staving off a late-game comeback by the Mintos.
Carson Deichert, Ryan Gibbs and Ki-
Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
erin Osberg all scored in the first period to give the Warriors a 3-0 lead before Osberg and Park scored in the second to make it a five-goal margin.
The Mintos weren’t about to go away quietly, though, and three goals in the first six minutes of the third made things interesting. Simon Garchinsky got Prince Albert on the board before Kelan Simmonds and Lincoln Rogers scored to suddenly make it a two-goal game.
Gibbs and Wade Franks scored with 5:10 and 3:25 to play to restore a comfortable cushion coming home, and Luke Senick would close out scoring for the Mintos with 47 seconds to play.
Gibbs racked up four points in the game and now has moved into second in SMAAAHL scoring with 20 goals and 37 points. Osberg (15-17-32) and Deichert (17-15-32) are tied for sixth.
Regina’s Maddox Schultz -- widely projected as the WHL’s next exceptional status player for the 2025-26 season -- leads the league with 22 goals and 45
points at 14 years old.
Luke McKechnie had 25 saves in the win, Jayden Blanchette stopped 35 in the loss.
Warriors 4, Prince Albert 1
Things were far closer in the early going of Sunday’s rematch.
The Warriors’ Keaton Lesperance and Minto’s Simmonds exchanged goals in the first period, and that’s where things stood until Osberg gave the Warriors the lead with 7:29 to play in the second.
The WINMAR Warriors continued their winning ways with a sweep in Prince Albert over the weekend.
Moose Jaw’s power play went to work in the third, with Park and Gage Nagel each scoring with the man advantage in the first 11 minutes to put the game away.
Osberg and Park each finished the game with two points.
Kaleb Page had a solid showing for the Warriors with 21 saves, Joshua Henry
stopped 35 for Prince Albert.
Next action for the WINMAR Warriors sill see another first-place showdown with the Regina Pat Canadians, with the contest taking place on Wednesday in Regina.
Prince Albert is back on the ice Wednesday when they host the Prince Albert Mintos.
Dec 13 Next Game:
The Moose Jaw Warriors have traded captain Brayden Yager and goaltender Jackson Unger to the Lethbridge Hurricanes in exchange for three players and six WHL Prospect Draft picks.
Joining the Warriors are 2005-born goaltender Brady Smith, 2006-born forward Landen Ward and 2009-born defenceman Colt Carter
The Warriors also recoup a host of draft picks lost in the build toward the 2024 WHL Championship, including a first round in 2025, third round in 2026, fourth round in 2026, fifth round in 2026, first round in 2028 and second round in 2028.
The trade was naturally difficult for Moose Jaw Warriors general manager Jason Ripplinger to make, but it’s also one that solves many issues as the team looked to rebuild its list of draft picks.
“These are never easy deals, but where we were with our picks and where we were last year, all the picks that we used, you knew eventually you were probably going to have to do this,” Ripplinger said. “You don’t want to, but for the franchise moving forward to be where we were last year again, this is something we have to do.”
It’s hard to describe the impact the two players had on the Warriors in their time with the team, especially last season as key cogs of the WHL Championship run.
“They were a big part of the team from when we drafted them and when they came into the (Regina COVID) bubble as 15-year-olds,” Ripplinger said. “They grew up in Moose Jaw, and they’re leaving as young men now, but everything in the world comes to an end, and you know what, they’ll go down in history as two of the best players to ever play in Moose Jaw.”
Ripplinger made sure to let the duo know about their importance to the team when he told them about the trade.
“I asked them when we have the alumni weekend golf tournament to come back, they’re alumni forever, and I said eventually one day you guys will be in the (Warriors and Legends) Hall of Fame.”
Yager had an absolutely incredible career in Moose Jaw, playing in 232 career WHL regular season games and recording 280 points, including 115 goals and a plus31 rating.
The 19-year-old forward and twotime winner of the Brad Hornung Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player was well on his way to another stellar season, as he led Moose Jaw in scoring with 11 goals and 30 points in 21 games.
It was a momentous day for the Saskatoon product, as he was also named to the World Junior selection camp for Team Canada earlier on Monday.
“We’re very excited to be able to add Brayden to our group,” Lethbridge general manager Peter Anholt said on WHL. ca. “He is one of the premier players in junior hockey, he’s a World Junior guy and knows what it takes to win at our level. He
is going to be a great addition and is going to help our team in every way.”
Unger owns a career record of 62-493-3 with a 3.64 goals-against average and was a WHL East Division First Team AllStar in 2023-24, going 35-15-0-2 with a 3.08 goals against average, .908 save percentage, and three shutouts.
He saved his best for the post-season though, going 16-1-2-0 with a 2.90 GAA and .910 save percentage as the Warriors won their title.
“Jackson is a championship goaltender and him being in the deal was a big part of us making this trade,” Anholt said.
“He’s proven himself as one of the top-end goaltenders in our league, was a first-team all-star last year and we think he is going to steady our goaltending while also being able to help [Koen] Cleaver develop.”
One of the key pieces coming back to Moose Jaw will be Smith, with the 19-year-old netminder having played in 16 of the Hurricanes’ 24 games and going 8-4-1-1 with a 3.31 GAA.
“He’s coming in as a 19-year-old starter, Pete wanted to go with a goalie that had lots of playoff experience it was a good fit for us,” Ripplinger said. “I think Jackson was ready to move on, and this will be a good fresh start for him. Smith can for sure be our starter and help us win some games.”
At 6-foot-3 and 214 pounds, the 18-year-old Ward is expected to bring a physical game to the Warriors line-up and is described on eliteprospects.com as a ‘violent, aggressive winger who creates space with his body’. He has a goal and two points to go along with 39 penalty minutes in 22 games thus far this season and had eight points and 120 penalty minutes in 63 games last season.
“He’s a big, heavy presence,” Ripplinger said. “He’s a guy you don’t like to play against. So he’ll be on our left wing and we’ll be expecting big things from him to create room for our players.”
Carter is a 15-year-old prospect currently playing for the St. Albert Raiders in the Alberta Elite U18 Hockey League, where he has five goals and 18 points in 15 games. The 5-foot-7, 137-pound rear-
guard suited up for Team Alberta in the WHL Cup this fall, and had 25 goals and 55 points in 34 games playing U15 last season.
“He’s a very highly touted defenseman who maybe was keeping his options open last year until the NCAA opened up,” Ripplinger said. “I believe he’ll be a player that has a bright future with the Warriors here.”
While receiving current on-ice talent for Yager and Unger was all fine and well, it was the future that was a major part of the deal.
With the six draft picks combined with selections made in trades earlier this season, the Warriors are starting to look
much improved in the WHL Prospects Draft picture after emptying the tank in their championship quest.
“We’re still missing a couple of firsts in a couple of years, ‘26 and ‘27, but we’ve got multiple seconds, we’ve got multiple thirds, multiple fourths in those drafts so we’re in better shape than what we were, and if we have a chance to fill in other openings, we’ll look at it,” Ripplinger said.
“As a general manager, you look ahead in years to come where you are with your draft picks. We didn’t have a first last year, and I wanted to make sure that we had a first going into the draft this year. Now we have two fourths, two thirds, a second and a first, so it’s looking a lot better.”
Now the Warriors will look toward the rest of the season, with Ripplinger taking a wait-and-see approach to any further deals.
“If anybody comes to me and offers me something, I can’t refuse to look at it,” he said. “But right now, we’ll just hopefully start winning some games here and see where it goes.”
As fate would have it, the two teams and all their new players faced each other only one night later, with the Hurricanes taking a 5-3 victory in Lethbridge.
Yager was the only one of the three skaters to hit the scoresheet with an empty net goal. Smith had 34 saves against his old club, Unger had 18. -- with files from www.whl.ca
November High School Athletes of the Month
The Moose Jaw High Schools Athletic Association announced their Purposed Financial Corp. Athletes of the Month recently, with eight volleyball players receiving honours from their respective schools.
Yager file
Winners include Chantal Howe (Peacock girls), Jakson McAuley (Peacock girls), Emily Mohr (Central girls), Riley Nancarrow (Central boys), Carter Biccum (Riverview boys), Lexus Schoffer (Riverview girls), Waverly Demassi (Vanier girls), Matthew Lazurko (Vanier boys), Drew Biette (Cornerstone Christian School boys), Aislyn Chamberlain (Cornerstone Christian School girls), Caleb Chan (Briercrest Christian Academy boys), Emma Johnson (Briercrest Christian Academy girls).
Toilers Senior Girls Looking For Gritty Play This Season
Despite suffering a loss in their home opener to the Vanier Spirits there is a lot of optimism when it comes to this season’s edition of the Peacock Toilers senior girls basketball team.
The team has a major number of returnees mixed in with some talented newcomers.
“This team is going to be good. We have a lot of vets coming back and on our team we have six grade twelves back and we have two grade tens back with us and a grade eleven. We have two new girls so it is good,” Toilers co-coach Micaela Williams said.
The Toilers will field eleven players on the bench this season.
It is no problem for Williams and actually an advantage.
“We would rather run eleven players than twelve; it gives the girls more reps.” Williams said the whole team stands out this year. “There is not one person on my team that stands out compared to the others.”
Despite the initial home opener loss, Williams sees a lot of potential for the team in the city league.
She said she expected the five team senior girls city league to be highly competitive this year with a lot of close battles.
“I’m fully expecting them to make a run for the money in our city league. We
Photos and story by Robert Thomas
know that both Central and Vanier have short benches, so I think it is going to be fun games against Vanier and Central in the city. And then Lumsden recently gave Central a run for their money so we’re exited to play Lumsden. And of course, we have powerhouse Swift Current so that will be a good game too,” Williams said.
Asked what the Toilers shortfall is this season she said it was the size of the team members.
“We are small. We are a small team; we don’t have a true big post so we are going to have to learn how to defensively and offensively rebound and learn how to box out,” Williams said is the solution for the team’s short stature.
“We are definitely the shortest on av-
erage (sized team).”
She said despite the team’s small size, the problem can be overcome.
“(We can overcome this); it’s all about grit.”
The six grade twelves returning this season have a good rapport, she said, adding “they have been playing together since grade nine.”
Williams said the reason the team is short one player on the roster is because of many girls playing other sports at the club level.
“At the end of the day, we know women’s basketball is going down now we are competing with the volleyball world. But me, (co-coach) Brendon (Fedoski) and
coach Deanna are happy just to take eleven.”
Other female teams may have problems with players showing up due to other extracurricular activities, but the female senior Toilers have not run into that problem.
“We have everybody showing up but we do have dual athletes who play volleyball and curling but we make sure we can schedule accordingly. But our athletes show up.”
Thursday practices the team is short because two of the players are involved in high school curling practices on the same day.
“So we make sure (they can play both sports). We support dual athletes at the end so that is OK.”
Williams said the games in the city senior girls league are going to be exciting for the team as well as the fans. Their home opener had just over 50 percent of the bleachers at Peacock Collegiate filled.
“I think it is super exciting to see the Moose Jaw League back in that super competition being neck and neck and you know having a competitive night. It will be fun for the fans, the players, coaches and referees.”
This season the Peacock Toilers senior boys basketball team sports a lot of talent.
The Toilers are running a team with six returnees and six new players joining the team.
“We don’t really look at the grades our guys are in when tryouts come out; we just see who came out and pick our team from there,” Toilers head coach Troy Setter said.
Setter said he doesn’t go out and recruit players but selects his team from the guys who show up for tryouts.
The bench is full this season. The fuller bench helps build the team for next season.
“We kept 13 (players) this year which is more than usual. We usually keep about 11 (players). We know we have six or seven players graduating so we wanted to keep a couple of grade elevens around so they can get some reps in so they will be ready to go for next year,” he said.
The senior boys Toilers has something the senior girls teams do not have and that is an abundance of people trying to make the team. All three senior city senior girls teams find themselves with short benches of only ten girls on the team.
“We had 24 kids come out this year so there was lot of kids out. It was tough to make some of the cuts we made. But it was good to see the number of kids that came out,” Setter said.
It has been a tradition that may of the
Photos and story by Robert Thomas
players who do not make the senior boys team end up on the school’s Junior Varsity or JV team. But this year there is no boys JV team at Peacock. Players who did not make the cut have no team to play on.
The Toilers sport likely the best player in the league - as well as top ten rated player provincially - in the extremely talented Makungu Mutabazi.
Setter said that there is a bit of a change in Mutabazi’s game this season as he moves into a different emphasis in his game.
“Makungu he is a special kid; he works hard on the court and off court. He obviously has got a lot of skills but you can’t just have one guy to do things. And he is got the right attitude where he knows he has got to use his teammates, and they have to use him well. They are playing well together. He is looking to get more
assists than he is getting points ad he is doing a great job with it this year.”
During last Thursday afternoon’s scrimmage, Mutabazi made several successful plays to set up teammates to make a basket.
On defence during the scrimmage Mutabazi made many plays blocking opponents, as well as successfully grabbing rebounds.
“He should be (good on defence); he is long and he is lengthy and he is athletic so he had better be there on defence,” he said.
But Mutabazi is not the only player on the Toilers with many returnees and new
The top three teams in the Original 16 Cash League have begun to pull away from the pack.
All three of the league leaders were victorious on Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre, with the trio moving at least two wins clear of the fourth-place team.
Fountain Tire (Chris Schon, 8-1) continued to roll along, taking a commanding 9-0 win over EMJ Marketing (Joe Gunnis 2-6). After picking up one in the first, Schon proceeded to steal two in the third
and another two in the fifth to go ahead 5-0. They then finished things off in the sixth, stealing four more for the shutout win.
KMS Construction (Ben Gamble, 7-1) got off to a slow start against Young & Young Automotive (Stan Barnsley, 1-8), but one big end changed the outcome of the game. Barnsley picked up two in the first end and stole another in the second for a quick 3-0 lead, but Gamble would get that all back and more with five in the third. Gamble then stole two in the fifth
and another in the sixth to secure an 8-3 win.
BTN Chartered Accountants (Penny Barker, 7-2) kept pace with the two one-loss teams thanks to an 8-3 win over Leeville Construction (Dustin Woloschuk, 5-4). The teams exchanged deuces over the first three ends, with Barker taking a 4-2 lead, but things went the former provincial Scotties champion’s way from there. A steal of one in the fourth and another three in the fifth made it 8-2, and after Woloschuk got one back in the sixth, the teams
players expected to excel on the court.
The Toilers have the same goals every season.
“We are just looking for them to lead. Our goals is always the same. It doesn’t matter what we have or who we have our goal is always to be in the city final game. And our goals are to make Hoopla.”
Hoopla is the annual provincial high school basketball championship tournament.
What the Toilers coaching staff is looking for out of their players can be summed up to one word.
“What are we looking for in our players. Effort. They have to be willing to come out and play hard,” Setter said.
The Toilers find themselves in 5A from 4A last season due to increased enrolment at Peacock Collegiate. The level of play is determined by the size of the student body and is seen as way of equalizing the drawing power teams have with a large student body.
Setter is philosophical when it comes to the move to 5A this season.
“There is a lot of big problems in 5A. It’s a challenge though; it is good.
The Toilers have a lot of work ahead of them as only two rural teams make it into Hoopla.
The Toilers senior boys are considered a city league favourite this season https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2024/12/5/toilers-senior-boys-1
called it a night.
R.K. Sunview Farms (Dayne Heisler, 4-5) moved another game closer to .500 thanks to a 7-2 win over HK Henderson (Wade Gray, 3-6). The game was tied after three ends when Heisler took a pair in the fourth to take a 3-1 lead. Gray got one back in the fifth, but Heisler responded with another four in the sixth, bringing the contest to an end.
Action in the Original 16 Cash League takes place every Wednesday night at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.
Trevor Harris will never, ever, ever take for granted’ being starting QB for Riders
Trevor Harris is once again officially a member of the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
The Canadian Football League club announced Friday that the veteran quarterback had signed a one-year contract for the 2025 season, meaning he’ll be back behind centre when the new season kicks off in a few month’s time.
The signing takes care of the biggest question for the team heading into the off-season, with Harris actually feeling it was pretty much a foregone conclusion at the end of the 2024 campaign.
“I think based on the exit meetings that I had and how I felt toward the end of the season, I think it was pretty much a no-brainer,” Harris said in a press conference announcing his signing Friday morning. “I feel like I’m playing some of the best football of my career.
“I think some of the best football that I’m going to play is right in front of me, and I think that’s a credit to this organization, to (offensive coordinator) Marc Mueller, (head coach Corey) Mace, the teammates I have and the budding stars that we have in the receiving room with Sam Emulis and (Kian Schaffer-Baker) and KeeSean (Johnson) and Dohnte Meyers and Jerreth Sterns and (Shawn) Bane. And we’ve got guys up front that really excite me in terms of what the next year could look like with this club… I knew that I felt like I had multiple years left in the tank. I was like ‘this is where I want to be’.”
Getting the deal done in December as opposed to waiting until the new year to figure things out was a positive for Harris, especially knowing that the Riders were more than interested in keeping him around.
“The big relief to me was this team didn’t have to think very long who they wanted to be their guy. That means a lot to me personally,” Harris said. “I don’t like to talk about myself personally very often, but that means a lot to me, knowing that they knew that they didn’t need to fish around and see what else is out there. They knew that they wanted me to be their guy. So that was something that meant a lot to me and I think it sets a direction for your team.”
Asked what the next step was now that
he’s signed, Harris let nothing to doubt: win the Grey Cup. He also expanded on what he thought it would take to get that job done from his perspective.
“That’s something that I’ve already started putting my mind together, started brainstorming,” Harris said, adding that he was able to evaluate his own game and find areas to tinker with in the off-season and going forward. Add that to the familiarity with the team and systems, and that’s already a head start heading into 2025.
“This is my first time since 2018 going into an offseason where I’m with the same coordinator in the same system,” Harris said. “That’s a tremendous advantage that I’m going to be able to hit the ground running with. We can talk about 301-level ball stuff in an offseason as opposed to trying to introduce me to what each formation needs.”
That comes with higher expectations and bigger goals, and Harris wasn’t taking a light approach to what he hopes to see from the team next season.
“Going undefeated at home is something that I think is important for us to provide the fan base what they deserve,” he said. “I know that they’re going to be packing the stands next year, making it difficult for teams, and getting that home playoff game in the West Finals as opposed
to the West Semi is going to be a big thing in our mind.
“We have a ton of guys back. I think it’s time if you’re somebody that’s been a Rider fan your whole life, I think it’s time to start getting those expectations and that that hope meter a little bit higher in terms of what to expect from this team.”
Of course, Harris is just one piece of a much larger puzzle, and he spoke at length about how important it will be to have a team filled with skilled veterans returning to the team.
“I think really what it starts with is really the knitting together of the brotherhood,” he said. “To me, the best teams are the closest teams and as long as we can start there knowing that we’re building something special together and knitting together the brotherhood, that’s where it starts. Then we can start building on the schematic things, the bigger goals, the process of each week, and those sorts of things.”
Interestingly enough, Harris knows what it’s like to see a team stick together and what can happen if they do -- after a tough, injury-filled season with the Ottawa Redblacks in 2017, he saw their management keep all the pieces together in the off-season, with the end result being a Grey Cup appearance in 2018.
“This team has that feel to me and I think we were ahead of schedule in terms of maybe how long people thought we were going to take to build something special,” he said. “I think the continuity, there’s more to that than what people realize. It’s how can we keep this group together. And when you start getting things together for a long period of time, that’s when I feel like the best teams start to perform and even overperform.”
As for the deal itself, Harris felt it was equally fair to the team and himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league. In 2024, Harris started 12 games for the Riders and led the league with a 108.4 quarterback rating. He completed 72.4 percent of his passes for 3,264 yards with 20 touchdowns and nine interceptions.
“I think it’s a correct deal for, both sides,” he said. “I think it allows a team to build the proper team but also it compensates myself as a starting quarterback and somebody that has played a long time in this league. So I thought it was a fair deal, but depending on where you’d slot me in the quarterback rankings, that would probably be in the eye of the beholder.”
Harris also touched on signing for a single season, pointing out that if he can’t perform at the needed level in a year’s time, the Roughriders will deserve to move on.
“I want to make sure that this organization is in the best hands it possibly can in the quarterback position,” he said. “And if I’m not that in a year, I shouldn’t be here and I don’t want to be here, because I want what’s best for this organization and they deserve the top-of-the-line quarterback play.”
Now, with the business side of things taken care of, it’s on to the rest of the off-season and getting ready to live up to all the expectations.
“It’s a privilege and an honour to be able to put on the green and white first and foremost, and to be to be the quarterback for this franchise is something I will never, ever, ever take for granted,” he said.”It’s a Christmas present to me that I get to be back in front of this fan base… and the fact that they’ve chosen me again, it means a great deal.”
The Saskatchewan Roughriders officially welcomed Trevor Harris back to the fold on Friday morning after the veteran quarterback signed a one-year deal.
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. Muscle malady 6. Pack down 10. Norse god 14. Associated with the moon 15. Winglike 16. Vagabond 17. Love intensely 18. Sit for a photo 19. Lamented
62. Declare untrue 63. Otherwise 64. Door DOWN 1. Talon 2. Uncouth 3. Dwarf buffalo 4. Crumbling earthy deposit 5. Make-believe 6. Snouted animal 7. Balm ingredient 8. A body of matter
Made attractive
Menaced
24 in a day
Overweight 13. Was a passenger
25. Type of tree
26. Wise men
27. Portent
28. Sell
29. From the inside
30. Spectacles
31. Not we
33. Coastal raptor
34. Finger jewelry
35. Anagram of “Care”
36. Dregs
38. Chaste
41. US spy agency
42. Strangle
44. Offer
45. Embankment
46. Anagram of “Naira”
47. Marsh bird
48. A group of cattle
50. By mouth
51. Not yours
52. Smile
53. Encircle or bind
54. Lascivious look
55. Countercurrent
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) Ice fishing partner wanted. Please call 306692-0800.
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 135 TOOLS & EQUIPMENT
6 metal poles 14’ x 3” heavy wall steel only $100. each, it’s a steal of a deal. Call 306-6941322.
160
MISCELLANEOUS
FOR SALE - Sunset Cemetery Last Supper Cremation Plot #212. Asking $1600, open to reasonable offers. Please call 306-693-2003. Collectibles For Sale – NASCAR 1:24 scale stock car models, plus hockey and football figurines. Call 306-631-7698.
190 PETS Weimaraner puppies for sale. Call 306-641-
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.
Looking for running or rebuildable Volkswagen air cooled 1300, 1500, or 1600 engine, must have dual port heads. Please call 306-5260016
Aerospace group buys planes for new training program at 15 Wing
A month after purchasing new helicopters to support a futuristic training program for the Royal Canadian Air Force, that same company has purchased new planes that will be stationed in Moose Jaw.
SkyAlyne, which is comprised of aviation companies CAE Inc. and KF Aerospace, announced recently that it signed a purchase agreement with Switzerland-based Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. to purchase 19 PC-21 training aircraft for the RCAF’s Future Aircrew Training Program (FAcT).
The contract, which British Columbia-based KF Aerospace signed as the major subcontractor for SkyAlyne, guarantees production slots for aircraft that should start arriving in mid-2026, the company said in a news release. The contract will also see Pilatus supplying supporting equipment, including mission planning and briefing systems and training materials.
SkyAlyne bought 19 H135 helicopters in early November from Airbus Helicopters.
“The Pilatus PC-21 is the ideal advanced trainer for the Royal Canadian Air Force, and SkyAlyne is excited to deploy it as part of the FAcT program,” said Kevin Lemke, SkyAlyne’s general manager.
“The aircraft is state-of-the-art and (used) by several other militaries, and it will undoubtedly serve Canada well in the years ahead.”
SkyAlyne was grateful for the diligent work that KF Aerospace and Pilatus put into negotiating the contract, while the company would continue its work to ensure the RCAF had the best-trained pilots in the world, Lemke added.
Pilatus has already supplied around 250 PC-21s to air forces in Switzerland, Spain, Australia and elsewhere. The ver-
satile, two-seat planes boast top-of-theline equipment, including avionics, fuel efficiency, performance and training capabilities. These attributes make the plan an ideal platform to buttress advanced fixedwing flying training for RCAF pilots in the FAcT program.
“We’re very much looking forward to working with our partners SkyAlyne, KF Aerospace and CAE. We can assure everyone of our commitment to providing Canada with the best training system and the best possible customer service,” said Markus Bucher, CEO of Pilatus.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their confidence in Pilatus and the PC-21, our next-generation trainer made in Switzerland.”
The $11.2-billion, 25-year FAcT program is in a five-year transition period as it works to become the sole pilot and aircrew training program for the RCAF while the other three separate training programs conclude, the company said.
SkyAlyne’s joint management office is overseeing the program from its head-
quarters in Ottawa, while the operational bases will be at 15 Wing in Moose Jaw, Southport, Man., and Winnipeg.
When operational, Canada’s PC-21 fleet will be housed in Moose Jaw and operated with the RCAF.
“The PC-21 is one of the world’s most capable and reliable training aircraft, expertly built and supported by Pilatus,” said Tracy Medve, board chair of SkyAlyne and president/CEO of KF Aerospace.
The plane’s versatility allows it to serve as a general advanced live flying
trainer and in advanced jet training, which gives Canada excellent value and offers a special advantage for the FAcT program, she continued.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Pilatus to deliver this exceptional platform for Canada’s next generation of aircrew training,” Medve added.
SkyAlyne will lead all instruction activities for aircraft fleets in Moose Jaw in partnership with the RCAF, while CAE will deliver the activities as the other major subcontractor, the company added.
Obituaries / Memorials
GLENN WAYNE WATSON
January 23rd, 1948November 30th, 2024
It is with sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Glenn Wayne Watson, who passed away at home with his wife by his side on Saturday, November 30th, 2024. He was predeceased by his mother, Vicki Kerr; mother-in-law, Elsie Langhorne; and stepson, Kelly Churko. Glenn is survived by his wife, Bonnie; son, Wayne Watson (Cindy); daughter, Marlain Watson (Paul); stepdaughter, Kim Churko; stepsons: Kevin Churko (Kemnay), Cory Churko (Jody), and Casey Churko (Jennifer); and grandchildren: Shannon Watson, Alison Watson, Jackson Watson-Jennings, Ryker WatsonJennings, Tréa Stafford, Alethia Stafford, Kane Churko (MeShawn), and Khloe Churko. Glenn is also survived by his brothers, Mike and Mark Watson; brothers-in-law, Denny Stevenson (Gina) and Russ Stevenson (Ranie); along with several nephews and nieces.
Glenn was born in Hamilton, ON. After he finished school, he worked as a truck driver. He moved to Prince Albert, SK and then spent a short time in British Columbia, where he developed a love for the ocean while working on a fishing boat. He settled in Moose Jaw, SK in 1988, where he married his wife Bonnie in 1989 and helped her with the company Bonnie’s Cleaning.
In his retirement years, Glenn enjoyed spending time with his friends in the garage, which they called “The Daycare”, and working on classic cars. He had a soft spot for animals of all kinds. He loved listening to Bonnie perform music or practice around the kitchen table with her friends and family and was always present for any event.
A Celebration of Glenn’s Life was held on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Pastor Marvin Seaborg officiated and a private family interment will take place at Sunset Cemetery at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in Glenn’s name may be made to either The Moose Jaw Humane Society, PO Box 1658 Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7 https://mjhs.ca/ or Inclusion Moose Jaw, 75 Ross St W, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 2M2 (supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities) – etransfers to payments@ inclusionmoosejaw.org. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Michelle Ellis, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
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.
Luminaria
People who live in the area of Albuquerque, New Mexico have a Christmas tradition of using luminaria on nights before December 25. Luminarias are a votive candle set inside a paper bag weighed down with sand. In 2022 Kate Nelson wrote in New Mexico Magazine, “The 2,000 luminarias, set and lit by hand, line the road up the mesa to Acoma Pueblo’s 370-foot-high Sky City. Inside the 1629 San Esteban del Rey Mission Church, tribal dancers pound their feet onto the dirt floor, commemorating the birth of the Savior. It’s a cherished Christmas Eve tradition in New Mexico, one that kicks off four days of celebrations at the pueblo.” Using luminarias is a ritual dating back to colonial Spain.
English publications about Christmas traditions in the southwest United States began using the term luminaria in the 1930s, which was appropriated from the American Spanish word luminaria, meaning a light placed in a window, balcony, or street, in recognition of a festival or holiday. The Spanish word was derived from the Latin luminare, an opening to let in light or a source of light. Luminaria was also used by Spanish speakers to indicate the light placed before the Communion Host in a church.
Today luminaria is used more broadly to refer to any candle lanterns lit for many occasions, such as memorials and weddings. Luminarias, purchased at many retailers, are used to light homes, sidewalks, stages, and pavements. Although luminarias are a lot more labour intensive than setting up solar lights, the effect is wonderous.
The use of luminarias and other types of candles has long been associated with Christmas celebrations. In Sweden, St. Lucia’s Day, December 13, marks the beginning of the Christmas celebrations. On that day the eldest daughter of the family traditionally dresses in a white robe and wears an evergreen wreath crown studded
with candles. The festival is meant to bring hope and light during the darkest time of the year. Schools often close around noon on the day of the festival so that families can prepare for St. Lucia’s Day. Baked goods, such as lussekatter (saffron bread) and ginger biscuits are given out. Many Swedes would find it sacrilege to eat lussekatter at any other time than on the pre-Christmas days starting with December 13. To drink, you’ll sip little cups of glögg (mulled wine), served with almonds and raisins.
St. Lucia (died 304 AD) was a martyr who was one of the earliest Christian saints to achieve popularity. She fell victim to the wave of persecution of Christians that occurred late in the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian.
In Sweden there are “Luciatåg” processions telecast on national TV, in schools, care homes, churches, and offices across the country. The defining feature is a lit-up wreath on the top of the head of the one portraying St. Lucia. Traditionally, real candles were used, but for safety reasons they’ve been replaced by battery-powered ones. And the same goes for those carried by the handmaidens, who typically wear glitter or a wreath in their hair and a decorative red ribbon around the waist. Star boys wear white – just like Lucia and the handmaidens – with conelike hats and star-adorned sticks. The lantern-carrying gingerbread men sport full gingerbread costumes, complete with white icing.
One of the many Lucia concerts this year will be broadcast online via SVT Play and you can follow the celebrations from abroad. The national Lucia concert will take place at Sala Silvergruva. You can stream the Lucia concert on 13 December 2024 (Sweden is 7 hours ahead of Saskatchewan time zone).
Another Lucia concert, held at the Unesco World Heritage Site of Grimeton Radio Station, will be shown as a live event on Facebook on 13 December.
During this darkest time of the year, festivals of light and luminaria bring a sense of hope and joy. The celebrations of the coming of the Christ Child are illuminated with candles to inspire faith for the year ahead and joy in the eternal life He comes to bring.
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.
More than 20 health-care workers picketed outside the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital on Dec. 3 to express their frustration over not having a contract for nearly two years.
The SEIU-West members — from the hospital, from home care, and Pioneer Lodge — braved brisk, cold winds as they walked along Diefenbaker Drive during their two-hour “information picket” trying to educate the public about how they haven’t had a contract for nearly two years.
According to the union, many health-care workers have been without a collective agreement for more than 21 months, while the two sides — the other being the Sas-
katchewan Association of Health Organizations (SAHO) — remain “very far apart” in reaching a deal. The union hoped the pickets educated the public about the issues members faced and the state of the system.
Health workers walk along Diefenbaker Drive. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade runs as planned despite rain
Santa Claus has come to town and headlined the 14th annual Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade alongside Mrs. Claus to spread a little Christmas cheer for children of all ages.
Despite several cancellations and a much reduced gathering of spectators due to safety concerns during freezing rain, a steady wind and thickly falling snow, the parade returned to Main Street on Dec. 8.
All participants met at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall with the parade following at 6 p.m. Afterwards, guests had the chance to meet Old Kris Kringle and Mrs. Claus at the Moose Jaw Events Centre around 6:30 p.m.
“(The Santa Claus Parade) is an annual event that the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club puts on,” announced Robert Lane, the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club’s Christmas Parade chair earlier.
“It brings cheer and joy to the city (and) it’s for young and for old,” he said.
“It’s just something we’ve always done and we‘ve always led the way in doing it for the community.”
The Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club wished to thank all who attended and participated, as well as Tim Hortons for donating hot chocolate and the Moose Jaw Co-op for donating cookies for children to eat with Santa.
The club also mentioned the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Wrestling Club, Kinsmen Moose Jaw Minor Football, and the Moose Jaw Events Centre “for their amazing support and contributions,” as stated on an official social media post.
To learn more about the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club visit ‘Moose Jaw Kinsmen’ on Facebook or email MJKinsmen@ outlook.com.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Despite rain, cold wind, and thickly falling snow which thinned out the crowd considerably, the Kinsmen Santa Claus parade went on as planned on Dec. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Mrs. Claus (left) and Santa Claus follow the parade to the Moose Jaw Events Centre on Dec. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Children dress smartly for the weather as a steady wind and blowing snow marks the 14th annual Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade on Dec. 9. Photo by: Aaron Walker
MLA Tim McLeod waves to spectators during the Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade on Dec. 9. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@ moosejawexpress.com
The Moose Jaw Art Guild Annual Art Show has officially opened at the MJMAG and will run until the first week of January. For information call 306-631-3148 or 306692-6667.
Superannuated Teachers of Sask. Moose Jaw Branch LUNCHEON Meetings to Come at the Masonic Hall, Main Street @ 10:30 AM: Wed. Jan 15, 2025/Wed. March 19, 2025/Wed. May 21, 2025
78TH ROTARY CAROL FESTIVAL
Monday and Tuesday, December 9 and 10th at 7 p.m. at Zion on Main. The Moose Jaw Rotary Club with assistance from the Salvation Army are asking those desiring to participate in this year’s event to register. Please use email at rmontgomery39@ outlook.com before the deadline of November 15. Previous duos to choirs have brought joy to many. Let us work together to continue celebrating the season with song.
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: 306693-4644
HOLDEN FINE ART CHRISTMAS
ORIGINAL ART SALE will be held at the Town N’ Country Mall on December 13, Friday thru Sunday December 15. Great prices on original art just in time for Christmas.
Write for Rights - Amnesty International: Volunteers from the Moose Jaw group of Amnesty International will have an Information table (and there will be petitions & letters available to sign) in appreciation of the United Nations HUMAN RIGHTS DAY - Friday Dec 13 from 2-4 in the Newcomers Welcome Centre 432 Main St N. For more information phone 306-6908739
Moose Jaw Town and Country Singles
Christmas Dance will be held on Saturday December 14 at Church of Our Lady Community Center at 566 Vaughan StW. Come out for an evening of fun. Married couples welcome! Cost is $15 for nonmembers/$13 for members. Band is Len Gadicia. For more information contact Marion at 306-630-1492.
Carols With Kelly - Sing along with Kelly Sapergia . Holiday music and Christmas carols at Minto United Church 1036 7th Ave NW at 7pm Sunday Dec 17. Everyone welcome.
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 @10amInstruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-630-8160 or visit www.moosejawlawnbowling.com
Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: January, February, March, April and May. No meeting in December. 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 until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects.
New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw
“The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@ hotmail.com
The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will resume meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The first meeting will be at 6:30pm, in Lindale School staff room, 1322 11th Avenue NW (north entrance). Phone 306-693-5705 for information.
Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. Winter 2024 Program on Monday nights from 7-9pm at St. Mary’s School, 720 – 5th Ave. SW. Dance in a square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles or doubles welcome!
Scottish Country Dance Classes for all ages on Thursdays at 7pm at 510 Main St. N (T. Eaton Bldg). No partner required. Call Val @306.630.5790.
Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month basis to take place on the third Friday of each month
Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m.
Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well:-Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/Prayer meetingsWednesday 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). 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
DECEMBER 24, 25 & 26 – CLOSED; DECEMBER 31 - OPEN 9:30 AM TO 1 PM; JANUARY 1 – CLOSED
ADULT PROGRAMMING:
MJPL MOVIE CLUB Drop-in program on Monday, December 16 @6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults Movie: Viewer’s Choice DOCUMENTARY NIGHT Drop-in program on Thursday, December 19 @6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Movie: Mayor TECH TIME Available by appointment during open hours in Main Library for adults by appointment only - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.
MAGIC THE GATHERING Drop-in program on Saturdays, Dec 14, 21 & 28 @2pm in Reading Room for ages 13+
MAKER NIGHT Monday, December 16 @6:30pm in South Meeting Room for 13+.
Cinematic works for the season Snuggle up by Kanopy’s Festive Fireplace this December and enjoy some jolly cinematic works. To access the merry movies all you need is your library card!
YOUTH PROGRAMMING:
DIGITAL D&D Fridays Time: 4:00 to 6:00
pm Location: MJPL Youth Discord Channel Ages: 16 to 25 Registration required Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire.
TEEN D&D: SPELL THIEVES Tuesdays OR Thursdays until Dec 19 @6:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for 12-16yrs. Registration required. HOOPLA Offbeat Christmas Looking for something different this holiday season? Check out hoopla’s Offbeat Christmas collection featuring quirky, scary, and unexpected stories.
TEEN GAMERS Drop-in program on Wednesday, December 11 @6:30pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19yrs. Snacks provided MOVIE MATINEE Drop-in program on Saturday, December 14 @2:30pm in MJPL Theatre Ages for all ages. Movie: Rise of the Guardians (G)
TEEN ARTS & CRAFTS Drop-in program on Wednesday, December 18 @6:30pm in Herb Taylor Room for 12-19yrs. Project: Melty Beads
MOVIE MATINEE Drop-in program on Saturday, December 28 @6:30pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Movie: Die Hard (14A)
CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING : L’HEURE DU CONTE (FRENCH STORYTIME) Lundi, 16 décembre 10h30 à la chambre des enfants pour les 0-5 ans et leurs soignants All levels of French language are welcome.
DAYCARE STORYTIME Drop-in program on Thursdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for 2-5 yrs and their caring daycare providers! No Storytime Dec 26 & Jan 2
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Drop-in program Wednesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for 2-5yrs. No Storytime Dec 25 & Jan 1
LITERACY CALENDARS Download December Early Literacy Calendar for infants and pre-school children Download December Children’s Literacy Calendar for elementary-aged children
BABY STORYTIME Drop-in program on Tuesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for babies up to 2yrs and their caring adults! No Storytime Dec 24 & 31
ELF ON THE LIBRARY SHELF Self-Guided Activity until December 31 during open hours in Children’s Department for ages up to 12yrs.
UGLY SWEATER COLOURING CONTEST
Self-Guided Activity until December 15 during open hours in the Children’s Department for ages 4-12 yrs.
MAKER SATURDAYS on Saturdays, until December 21 @2pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 8-12 yrs. Registration required. Dec 21 - LEGO Spike Prime GINGERBREAD PLAYDOUGH on Saturday, December 14 @10:30am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2+. Registration required.
POPSICLE STICK ORNAMENTS SelfGuided Activity Available December 15 during open hours at Children’s Circulation Desk for ages 4+. This Take ‘n’ Make kit will be available while supplies last.
The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453 Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59 BINGO – Monday @ 6pm
CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm
MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACESaturday @ 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.
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 8am4pm
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. Billiards daily 8a.m. – 4p.m.; Monday & Thursday evenings 4:30 – 8 p.m.
Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm 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
Wednesday, December 11 - Cosmo Christmas Banquet, 5:30pm. Tickets$20 adult, $10 child (10 and under). Meal catered by the UPTOWN CAFE - Chinese Food. Advanced Tickets ONLY to be purchased by noon on Monday, December 9. I’ve attached a poster for clarification of above mentioned information. Saturday, December 21 - Cosmo Social Dance - Len Gadica, 7:30pm - 11:00pm. Cost - $15.00/ person includes lunch.
Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net
Every Wednesday, open 12-6 pm, Smear –Starts at 1 pm Every Thursday, open 12-7 pm, Smear – Starts at 1 pm, Crib starts Sept. 5th; registration at 1 pm; Crib starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a partner or sign up as a spare. Every Friday, open 1-10 pm, drop in shuffleboard. Register at 1 pm. Play starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a partner. Drop in pool and darts. Register by 6:30 pm. Play starts at 7 pm. Bring a partner. Every Saturday, open 1-7 pm. Meat draw starts at 4:30 pm, 10 meat draws, 4 free draws, gift card and 50/50. Everyone welcome.
Hall rentals available – book now! Available now! 6th Annual 50/50 Tickets. $10/ticket. Only 1000 tickets sold. Could win up to $5000 if all tickets are sold. Draw date will be in December.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395
EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace”
EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” –ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play.
FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am
FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm DROP IN DARTS - Every Wednesday evening and continues until April, 2025$2.00 per person, draw for partners, starts at 7:00 pm.
DROP IN CRIBBAGE - Every Monday evening and continues until April, 2025$2.00 per person, registration between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm – play starts at 7:00 pm. 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/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca
Moose Jaw’s Ukrainian diaspora is looking for support from the community — particularly from businesses — to help establish a restaurant where they can eat ethnic food and socialize at a central hub.
Christy Schweiger, co-ordinator of the Facebook group “Ukraine help and exchange in Moose Jaw,” recently posted a message online saying she was looking to help Ukrainian entrepreneurs open a restaurant and wondered if anyone had a space to rent.
Her comment received 83 likes, while 108 people left comments.
Schweiger said that a Ukrainian family in Manitoba sent her a message on Facebook inquiring about opening an ethnic restaurant here, which prompted her to post a query online seeking input from the community.
need a kick-start” to launch a business.
The Facebook page co-ordinator said there are no Ukrainian restaurants in The Friendly City, which is odd considering the community has a long history of Ukrainians living here — especially on South Hill, which was dubbed “garlic hill” because that was the food people ate regularly.
Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMAG) knows of a family who recently welcomed a set of parents, while she has been working to bring immigrants from other provinces such as Quebec, Ontario, Alberta and Manitoba. She believes Saskatchewan offers better opportunities and a lower cost of living.
“So, cross our fingers that they consider Moose Jaw as a possibility to move to … . They want to start small and find something that would work.”
Many Ukrainian immigrants also dream of opening a cultural restaurant in Moose Jaw, but they lack the money, resources or sponsors to pursue that objective, said Schweiger. Many newcomers are pastry chefs or enjoy cooking, but “they
“There are several locations that I have presented to the newcomer family that is inquiring about moving to Moose Jaw, but so far, we haven’t heard anymore,” she said. “I messaged them and they said … they’re going to be busy over the Christmas season, so they’re going to investigate that in the new year.
Housing construction grows in 2024
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Housing continued to support nearly half of city building in November. By December the city hall had issued 33 permits for 60 housing units worth $13.5 million compared with 11 permits for 13 units worth just over $4 million last year.
All permits issued in the first 11 months were worth $29.4 million — a decline from $73.8 million in 2023
Last month one dwelling permit worth $39,000 was issued compared to one for $241,000 in November 023.
Major commercial permits in November were $193,000 for a manufacturing plant at 2125 Omineca Street West, $33,000 for a retail space at 361 Main Street North in the old Sears mall, and $600,000 for a retail complex at 369B Thatcher Drive West on the south side.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
“And we don’t have a place for Ukrainian newcomers — or oldcomers — to gather and meet,” she said, whereas Regina and Saskatoon both have well-established Ukrainian communities. “Everybody’s so busy that they don’t get a chance to meet and see who’s in the community.”
Schweiger suggested that if residents have ideas about where Ukrainian immigrants could meet to socialize or host activities, they should contact her. She noted that some residents donated money previously so the local diaspora could rent a space for Christmas get-togethers.
Schweiger was unable to say how many Ukrainian immigrants had come here during the past two years, but she knew most of them since she had supported their settlement.
“I’ve noticed in the past six months (that) there’s family members coming and living with some of the people who just arrived here a year ago,” she said.
The education co-ordinator at the
However, fewer Ukrainians are coming from Europe because the Canadian government has cut funding for a program that welcomed them on an emergency basis, she continued. This means a newcomer must now rely on family and friends for support upon arrival.
Schweiger has also heard that Ottawa may make more changes in April, where it may issue fewer work permits and educational opportunities. This may also change how immigrant organizations support newcomers.
“A lot of these people coming here, they realize the war is not going to end and they want better opportunities for their kids,” she said. “So they want to stay here, and they don’t want to go back, even though they miss their families … . The older folks in Ukraine won’t come here because it’s too difficult to adjust.”
To offer support, contact Christy Schweiger through the Facebook group “Ukraine help and exchange in Moose Jaw.”
