Moose Jaw Express, February 12th, 2025

MOOSE JAW’S HOMEGROWN NEWSPAPER

Radiant Skin Clinic hosting Women’s Day luncheon to uplift and empower women

Radiant Skin Clinic invites you to celebrate International Women’s Day and support the Moose Jaw Transition House with a charity luncheon featuring live music, artists at work, swag bags, and a guest presentation by keynote speaker Darci Lang meant to uplift and empower women this winter.

The International Women’s Day charity luncheon will be held at The Grant Hall Hotel from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 8.

“For us at Radiant, we’re a staff of women who primarily treat women as patients. We really believe that it’s important to straighten each other’s crowns rather than tear each other down,” said Amber Cameron, owner of Radiant Skin Clinic.

In a show of this support, Radiant Skin Clinic reached out to host the upcoming luncheon.

“It’s our 15-year anniversary for Radiant Skin Clinic, and to commemorate it, we wanted to host the charity luncheon,” she said. “So, we’re sponsoring the event and giving all proceeds to the Transition House.”

The luncheon will open with time to mingle until lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Two Metis artists, Heather and Ter-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

ri Murphy, will be doing a live artwork creation onsite to be auctioned off later in the day and each attendee will receive a $100 gift certificate to Radiant Skin Clinic.

“International Women’s Day is a global event celebrating women’s achievements ,” explained Jenn Angus, executive director of the Moose Jaw Transition House. ““It’s also a call to action to raise awareness of issues that continue to impact women today, such as domestic violence and gender equalities.”

Darci Lang is a renowned Canadian motivational speaker, award-winning

entrepreneur, and best-selling author based in Regina, Sask. With over 30 years of experience encouraging individuals to concentrate on the positive aspects of their lives, Lang continues to deliver speeches, workshops, and help transform workplace cultures to boost morale, employee engagement, and profitability.

“Overall, it’s just about women globally,” Cameron explained. “It’s about women in all walks of life, and in all countries. We’ll have attendees from Ukraine, Nigeria…, and we’re trying to have a little bit of representation from around the world.

To purchase your tickets visit RadiantSkinClinic.ca, click the three lines in the top right corner, scroll down to “Shop” and select “Add to Cart.” Tickets cost $95 apiece and are available for purchase until Thursday, Feb. 20.

To learn more call 306-972-7546, visit RadiantSkinClinic.ca, or follow ‘Radiant Skin Clinic’ on Facebook. The clinic is located at 106 Athabasca Street East.

For more information about the Moose Jaw Transition House visit MJTransitionHouse.com or ‘Moose Jaw Transition House’ on Facebook.

A STONE’S THROW FROM HISTORY

New MRI breast coil brings advanced cancer detection to Moose Jaw

In a significant advancement for local health care, the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital has now installed a stateof-the-art breast coil to its existing MRI machine, a development made possible through the Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) and a generous community.

The new breast coil became operational on the week of Feb. 3, and will remain a permanent addition to Moose Jaw’s hospital.

“We’re thrilled to announce the addition of the new MRI breast coil at our hospital,” said Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF. “It will be used in conjunction with the existing mammography, imaging, and sonography services.

“Since it provides a clear picture with greater certainty for our medical professionals, it can be used to confirm a diagnosis and to aid in prognosis, treatment, and planning. It’s quite the advancement and a benefit for patients… in Moose Jaw and surrounding communities.”

The breast coil is now the third of its kind in the province, enabling Moose Jaw’s hospital to provide equivalent services to those available in Saskatoon and

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The new coil is designed to enhance the hospital’s ability to detect and diagnose breast cancer at its earliest stages. The machine offers superior imaging capabilities, allowing for more detailed and accurate assessments as compared to traditional screening methods.

As a result, physicians will be able to identify abnormalities with greater precision, leading to earlier interventions and improved patient outcomes.

“Breast cancer hits home for so many people,” McElree noted. Each year in Saskatchewan alone, approximately 750 new cases are diagnosed with an estimated 160 deaths — approximately 21.3 per cent — resulting from the disease.

noteworthy instance, the Foundation’s annual Festival of Trees event raised over $184,000 on Oct. 19, 2024, and has raised approximately $5.5 million in support of the hospital since the project’s inception. The Foundation is also supported by mail-in donations and an annual contribution by The Mosaic Company.

With the breast coil now fully operational, the next step for the MJHF is to work with the digital imaging department to further upgrade the MRI machine “so it’s capable of doing even more things,” McElree added. Further details are expected later in 2025.

year at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital.

“The patient will be able to stay in Moose Jaw and not have to travel to Regina or Saskatoon for MRI breast imaging, so that’s a relief to the patient,” he added. “A cancer diagnosis is a very difficult diagnosis, and the less travelling you have to do, and the more time you

“The numbers are very concerning… and early diagnosis is absolutely crucial when treating cancer and generally leads to a greater chance of success,” he said. “There’s no better imaging possible than (through) an MRI, so this is quite the benefit… to surgeons.”

In total, the new breast coil cost approximately $175,000.

The acquisition of the new breast coil was made possible by the MJHF’s dedicated fundraising efforts. In one

“It’s wonderful to see medical staff so excited by this new technology, because they work with these patients every single day and they want nothing but the best for them and to help them,” McElree said. “This is another tool that they have that will save many, many lives in our community.

“(I just want to say) thank you to all foundation donors for making it possible.”

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

Chamber nominates Jared Mathieson and Square One for citizen, group of the year

The Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Citizen and Group of the Year awards ceremony to celebrate the contributions of individuals and organizations to the economic and social vitality of Moose Jaw on Feb. 4.

The ceremony was held at the Moose Jaw Events Centre during the first-period intermission as the Moose Jaw Warriors hosted the Wenatchee Wild for the first time in the team’s history. Despite an 8 — 2 defeat by the Wild the night still belonged to Moose Jaw.

Jared Mathieson was named Citizen of the Year, and Square One Community Inc. was selected as the Group of the Year.

The on-ice announcement began with a warm welcome from Michael Biette, president of the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce, and Scott Greenough, director of CAE Canada Inc. who co-sponsored the event.

Mathieson credited the organizations he works with including River Street Promotions for their shared success and acknowledged the exceptional contributions made by the other nominees.

“It’s always humbling,” Mathieson said. “I’m fortunate enough to be part of three awesome organizations — River Street Promotions, the Moose Jaw Health Foundation, and the Transition House. So yeah, I’m just humbled and honoured.

“Thanks everyone for supporting the events that River Street Promotions puts on, and thanks to family and friends. It’s always a community effort. Everything we do, people from all walks of life help out. Thanks, everybody. I appreciate it.”

Maxton Eckstein spoke on behalf of Square One following the announcement.

“We are so incredibly honoured for the designation that we were presented yesterday,” he said. “One of our honoured board members and previous chairs of the board, Della Ferguson, was there to receive (the award) and we were just so delighted that the community has seen the value in the work we’re doing, and the value especially in the mission

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Jared Mathieson (centre) was named the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year on Feb. 4. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Della Ferguson (centre) accepted the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce’s Group of the Year award on behalf of Square One Community Inc. on Feb. 4. Photo by: Aaron Walker

that we’re working on.

“We know that Moose Jaw as a community is committed to ending homelessness and providing a fair and safe way for people who have experienced homelessness to start again and get a second chance.”

Ferguson, who accepted the award on Feb. 4, said, “What an extreme honour for our team to receive this recognition. It felt like a true affirmation from our community that they believe in the work we’re doing and (that they) support the work we’re doing. That makes all the difference because it is fully a community collaborative effort.

“We’re so grateful for that, and we’re just excited and inspired to drive forward, to make changes, and to offer the supports that are so needed in our community.”

Mary-Lee Booth, president of Square One, was out of town during the ceremony but also wished to share a few words. “We’re eternally grateful for the support of the generous community in

working together to address issues related to housing insecurity,” she said. “We wouldn’t be where we are without the generosity of community members, organizations, and businesses that support the work that we do.”

The awards are a time-honoured tradition in Moose Jaw. The ceremony seeks to recognize those who have significantly enhanced the city’s quality of life through volunteerism, leadership, and community engagement.

This year’s nominees for Citizen

of the Year included Bill and Lauretta Keen, Bobbi Ingalls, Crystal Harvey, Jared Mathieson, and Rachel Mullens. Group of the Year nominees included the Moose Jaw Community Players, Moose Jaw Family Services, Moose Jaw Housing Authority office staff, the Sask. Selects Football Program, Square One Community Inc., and Women For Women Hillcrest Ladies Committee. For more information call the Chamber of Commerce at 306-692-6414 or visit MJChamber.com.

JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR

Editor’s Note

What’s going on?

Well, there’s lots going on here at the Moose Jaw Express. You probably have already noticed that the size of the paper has changed. It’s a sign of the changing times, but do not fret because we are continuing to bring you the best information and stories going on in our community as we cover local events and focus on the great people that make this city what it is.

This change has been in the works for a couple of months after hearing that the press that has been printing our publication was shutting down after many years. The initial response was panic, but as life is, change is in-

evitable, and we need to keep up with the times. Through a lot of effort and gnashing of teeth, another press was located that had the potential to print our publication but in a new format. That in itself was a relief to know, but that was just scraping the surface of what was to come.

Our designer that puts the paper together has done a remarkable job as she navigated the new format requirements and put together the template for the new edition that is now on the streets. She is a rock-star, not to mention the sales team too that needed to get with the times to work out a solution to the advertisement changes. Thanks to them, It seems to be a win-win for the advertisers as their ads appear larger and somewhat clearer in the new publication.

Here in the editorial department, I must admit, I was a little frazzled trying

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

to figure out how things were going to work. Deadlines for the final copy to go to press have changed so this requires a little more effort on the team to make sure that all is said and done by the end of the weekend. The reporters are seasoned and skilled in their journalism; they tell the story as it is factually, although we try not to sensationalize a story like mainstream media that holds to the moniker, “if it bleeds, it leads.”

As always, our desire is to relay stories accurately, but if a correction needs to be made, we are happy to do so. We endeavour to continue to bring you the latest news in the neighbourhood and make it palatable and good content.

We are like the pony express, rain or shine, come hell or highwater, our Moose Jaw Express continues to make it the best publication it can be despite any hurdle that comes our way. Resiliency and stretching with the realities

of life are an asset for sure.

One thing you will notice, almost every page seems to be a feature story; it looks good. The clarity seems to be great, and the size is a little more manageable when reading it, rather like a book than a larger formatted edition that needs more space to navigate.

Well, in all of this, we are certainly ecstatic that the community has embraced the changes that were required with all of the positive comments. In this day and age, we are an anomaly here in Moose Jaw still having a local newspaper with local content that isn’t run of the mill news.

After 18 years this year in the publishing business, our success is because of your advertising and readership. Thank you to our advertisers and the community for your support; we greatly appreciate you!

Hunger in Moose Jaw offers budget-friendly fruit and vegetable boxes for residents

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

As the cost of living including grocery expenses continues to rise, Hunger in Moose Jaw is once again offering its Good Food Box program and residents may be able to save at least 40 per cent when they purchase fruit and vegetables this winter.

The ongoing program operates biweekly from September to June each year and payments are due on the Wednesday before each scheduled Tuesday pickup date.

“The Good Food Box is a bulk buying service open to all residents of Moose Jaw,” said Sharla Sept, executive director of Hunger in Moose Jaw. “Each box is carefully selected and packed fresh on the day of pickup or delivery.”

The Good Food Box program is a flexible community service with no application, subscription, or membership requirements. Anyone can participate by purchasing a box whenever they wish — whether weekly or as needed — with the option to prepay for multiple boxes in advance. The program has seen participation from a number of local busi-

Residents may be able to save at least 40 per cent on the cost of certain groceries thanks to Hunger in Moose Jaw’s Good Food Box program. Photo by: Hunger in Moose Jaw

nesses and several schools so far.

There is no limit on how many boxes can be purchased and orders of three or more boxes qualify for free delivery.

Hunger in Moose Jaw is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children and their families through educational and nutritional programs such as this.

“With the rising cost of food and the increase in food insecurity, we strive to provide the community with a lowercost option,” Sept explained.

The food box program operates on a simple yet effective model to keep costs low. By purchasing produce in bulk, Hunger in Moose Jaw can offer various box options and efficiently cater to differing household sizes and dietary requirements.

All of the previous food box sizes remain available with the addition of a fruit bag add-on this year.

A large Good Food Box retails for $25 and is ideal for families of three to five members, a small food box retails for $20 and is ideal for small families and couples, and an individual box can be purchased for $12.50.

As well, individuals can enjoy an optional selection of fresh fruits for an extra $15.

“Out of the seven types of fruit and vegetables offered, at least three to four will be standard in every box and we will be rotating through the rest to pro-

vide variety,” Sept explained.

“These standard items have been requested through our survey process (and) each box is carefully packed by volunteers and… delivered to the pack site fresh.”

Anyone can support the food box program by purchasing a box of their own, volunteering to assist with Good Food Box packaging, donating to Hunger in Moose Jaw, or simply by spreading the word about the program to those who may benefit most from it.

Payment can be made by cash, credit, debit, or e-transfer as desired. It’s important to note that credit cards are accepted until 4 p.m. on the payment due date and e-transfers are accepted until 5 p.m.

To purchase a food box, contact Hunger in Moose Jaw at 306-692-1916 or via email at GoodFoodBox.MJ@live. com.

All Good Food Box pickups take place at Zion United Church located at 423 Main Street North between the hours of noon and 4:30 p.m.

The Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMAG) is the first stop for a new provincial art exhibit that features photographic works by Canadian artists whose images present as lens-based performances.

“Storied Telling: Performativity and Narrative in Photography” opens in the MJMJAG’s Norma Lang Gallery on Friday, Feb. 7 and runs until Sunday, April 27. The six featured artists include Catherine Blackburn, Lori Blondeau, Xiao Han, Mariam Magsi, Meryl McMaster and Laura St. Pierre.

According to the show’s description, the photographs “reflect a performative nature, taken as video stills or documentation of performance art or presented as elaborate figurative compositions within settings that border on the fantastical or are imagined re-creations of historical scenarios.

“The resulting images are rife with story, reflecting diverse narratives that are poetic, political, surreal, spiritual or perhaps even mythic,” the description added. “(These are) stories that inform and speak to cultural and diaspora identities that are constantly producing and reproducing themselves anew through transformation and difference.”

Don’t miss our pre-planning seminars

Join Michael Penner for an informal 90 Minute Seminar. Your complimentary meal is courtesy of Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Learn the benefits and steps of pre-planning.

Tuesday, February 18 th

~ Houston Pizza

117 Main Street North, Moose Jaw 6:30pm (from the

Tuesday, February 25 th

~ Rodo’s Pizza Event Room 9th Avenue South & Grandview Street, Moose Jaw 6:30pm (from the menu)

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

This exhibition will be touring around the province for several years with the Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC), while the organization is letting the MJMAG open it first because it’s originating from here, explained Jennifer McRorie, the MJMAG’s curator/director.

“They’re a great partner. We’ve partnered with them for years,” she continued. “And it’s either a great way to get some of our permanent collection pieces out or just curate shows that

MON: $20 O 60/80 Minute Pedicures

TUES: $20 O 60/80 Minute Pedicures

WED: $20 O 60/80 Minute Pedicures

THURS: 25% o Relax Massage (exc. RMT) FRI: $99 - 60 Minute Facials (including dermaplaning)

we’re interested in featuring artists like from Saskatchewan (or) from Moose Jaw (and) getting the work out to broader audiences.”

Three of the Aboriginal artists are from Saskatchewan, as Blackburn is from the English River First Nation in northern Saskatchewan and now lives in Toronto, Blondeau is from Saskatoon and now lives in Winnipeg and McMaster — who is “a pretty big name” — is from Red Pheasant First Nation near North Battleford and now lives in Ottawa, McRorie continued.

Furthermore, Han is a ChineseCanadian from Saskatoon, St. Pierre is a Fransaskois artist from Saskatoon and Magsi is a Muslim artist from Toronto.

“So, all of their works basically include figures in the landscape,” the curator remarked. “It’s very performative in nature.”

McMaster includes herself in staged photographs and creates portrait shots, which sometimes depict indigenous legends and identity in Canada, McRorie said. In fact, many of the exhibit’s artwork contain elements of cultural identity.

For example, Magsi photographs women in veils, burqas and niqabs

standing in different Canadian landscapes, while St. Pierre depicts herself attempting to live sustainably with the food she grows. Also, Blackburn’s photographs depict a person performing in a landscape while wearing beaded works that she created for fashion shows.

Meanwhile, Han re-creates the history of Chinese cafés from the 1920s, when such restaurants weren’t allowed to hire white women — such a story exists at the MJMAG — and two owners from Regina and Moose Jaw challenged that prohibition at the Supreme Court of Canada.

“So (Han is) re-creating that history, to speak to sort of that racism,” said McRorie. “So, in all of this work, there’s an element of performance, which I think is really interesting.”

McRorie encouraged people to attend the exhibition since there was likely something they might enjoy. Moreover, she thought this show meshed well with Gabriela García-Luna’s exhibition — a beautiful and introspective collection — next door since they both used photography, spoke about landscapes and addressed cultural identity.

An artists’ reception for “Storied Telling” is on Friday, April 4 at 7 p.m.

Artworks by Catherine Blackburn. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

By

The World: A Family History of Humanity.

Simon Sebag Montefiore. Alfred A. Knopf, 1304 pages, hardcover, bibliography available separately. A symphony must contain the world –Gustav Mahler.

The author and the composer clearly harbor similar opinions about the scope of their work, but they share another characteristic: neither have managed to get the hang of putting things in a nutshell.

Sebag Montefiore (henceforth SSM) starts this history by telling about the earliest known traces of Homo sapiens outside Africa: the fossilized footprints of one family, probably one male and four children, on a beach near the English town of Happisburgh, left there between 950 000 and 850 000 years

ago. Families in fact form the core of very many historical events described in this book; I was surprised by how prominently dynasties were involved in changing the course of history.

The first name mentioned outside of the introduction (on page 3) is that of Enheduanna, the high priestess (circa 2300 BCE) of the moon god Nanna in the Sumerian city-state UR. More than a thousand pages later, in the conclusion (page 1262), we read a quote by the last person mentioned by name, the famous scientist Edward O. Wilson, which I have added at the end of this review because it is very descriptive of this book as a whole.

In between there are more names than in the Saskatoon telephone directory, or so it seems at times, and good luck finding a great many of them in the index.

This history is truly global. SSM naturally discusses the major power players but lesser countries such as Haiti and South Africa also featured. Long forgotten but still important and interesting figures who shaped events in some now obscure manner or corner of the world also get their fifteen minutes of fame.

The book chronicles an unending litany of violence, mayhem and man’s inhumanity to man - palace intrigues, love affairs, incest, murders, (often by strangling, poisoning or beheading), plagues, religious persecution, betray-

als and wars follow in rapid succession. Parents murdered or were murdered by their spouses and/or children, children viciously turned on siblings. There is scant mention, let alone discussion, of the growth of art and literature, science and technology or changes in systems of government.

Well, chairman Mao said that longlasting peace is unendurable to humans and “We love sailing on a sea of upheavals.” So there you have it – a chronicle of cruelty, of life and death in palaces, farms, mountains, plains and deserts and no mercy anywhere.

One of the things I appreciated in this book is that history is not seen through a Western lens – indeed, long before the rise of the West other often magnificent civilizations rose, conquered, spread and withered, some to rise again – modern China is a good example. Also, SSM clearly shows that the many evils Western civilization is so often (and rightly) accused of, is not and never was peculiar to the West. Every civilization and/or dynasty which had the ability to do so invaded, killed, raped and attempted genocide, sometimes successfully. Slavery, for exam-

ple, wasn’t a Western invention, Arabs kidnapped and transported about six million Africans between the 11th and 16th centuries alone. More often than not these unfortunate people were sold by their own rulers.

The sheer length of this book, as well as the unending descriptions of violence and murder, eventually wore me down a bit and to be candid, I found it difficult to read right to the end – not, let me add, because of any deficiencies in SSM’s talents as a writer, but simply because there are too many characters and too many murders, too much death, cruelty and bloodshed. I am quite willing to admit that this is my fault and not that of the author.

Whatever one may think of SSM’s books (including this one), there can be no doubt that he is extremely well read and draws on a vast knowledge and amount of research. I thoroughly enjoyed two of SSM’s many other books, his histories of Jerusalem and the Romanovs, and can wholeheartedly recommend them.

SSM is fond of using rather rare words, and here are two which I have never read before and do not know the meaning of: frizelate and naufragiologist. If any reader can help, I’d very much appreciate it.

“The real problem of humanity is we have paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions and godlike technology” EO Wilson.

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 Cover Image: Amazon.ca

1650 Stadacona St. W. Moose Jaw 306-693-4334

Hwy #1 North Service Rd. Emerald Park 306-359-1964 521 South Railway St W. Warman 306-934-3880 you

Peacock Collegiate offers yoga, crafts, games and tea during stressful finals week

Final exams can be stressful for students, so one high school recently took the approach of helping youths manage their mental health using activities such as yoga, crafts, board games, and tea time.

A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s semester 1 final exams occurred from Jan. 27 to 30, and staff from Prairie South School Division’s mental health capacity building (MHCB) program used the library to help students manage stress, stay focused and study smarter.

Students who ventured to the library received study tips and tools, stress management strategies, brain-break activities to increase their productivity, and a supportive environment in which to study.

Each day also featured a different activity, including yoga at lunch, a crafting and beading session, board games and puzzles, and tea and snacks. There were also studying supplies students could acquire, such as highlighters and pencils.

Tallissa Edwards, a mental health promoter with the MHCB program, explained that this is the first year Prairie South has run the program, so it has been exciting to support it. She and her colleague Layne Gosling will be based at the school for several years.

“Our goal is to put tools in the students’ toolbelts so they’re managing their own mental health themselves,” said Edwards. “Then we’re providing them access to the resources that are available in the community.”

The MHCB team also works with teachers to promote the program and communicates with parents to ensure the skills the students learn in school are being used at home, she continued.

The program focuses mostly on preventative care, something the provincial

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

government realized needed to be addressed because the pre-existing tools were lacking, said Edwards. So, the province took inspiration from an Albertabased program and adapted it for Saskatchewan.

The MHCB team focuses on mental health literacy, which educates youths about areas of their lives they can control, such as eating, sleeping and socializing, which are part of a sound psychological foundation, she continued. The team also teaches “grounding techniques” for when youths lack control over issues.

The division produced a mental health study guide for students to use during finals that offered tips on how to “crush their exams and stay balanced while doing it.” There are problem-solving tasks to complete, such as learning how to study — something Grade 9s are still developing — and coping strategies for tests and throughout the year.

“The big one is just helping the kids through problem-solving, so being aware that stress is normal (and) stress is a good thing,” said Edwards. “We’re helping them reframe their stress … and guiding them through what they can do to prepare.”

Overall, Edwards noted that the week went well, and more students attended activities than expected. The team had hoped to see 15 kids daily, but 20 came on the first day during one “brain break” and about 30 attended daily thereafter.

“I thought that maybe it would be just Grade 9s, but it’s been a very healthy balance across all grades, so it’s pretty exciting, actually,” she said. “And we didn’t have to bribe them with food; they kind of just came on their own, which was nice.”

Most activities kept students off their

Tallissa Edwards, a mental health promoter with Prairie South School Division’s mental health capacity building (MHCB) program, holds a study guide and bookmark that helped students at A.E. Peacock Collegiate during finals. One supportive tool during finals was board games in the library, as seen on the table. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

screens, which was important since such devices contribute to higher stress levels, Edwards continued. Many youths usually scroll on their phones at night, while studies show how harmful that can be.

Furthermore, the problems youths face today are different than 10 or 20 years ago because there is pressure to always look good on social media, which “is not feasible,” she said. Moreover, everyone is “living in an overstimulated state in general,” so it’s a lot for youths to handle.

The MHCB team is not “glorifying mental illness,” but is giving students tools to be more resilient and prevent them from self-diagnosing their problems, Edwards added. So far, the kids have accepted this help without reservation.

Partnership established between Moose Jaw Tourism and Moose Jaw Express

In appreciation of our newly established partnership, the Moose Jaw Express made a donation of $5000 to Tourism Moose Jaw. This collaboration will bring a fresh layout and expanded editorial content to better promote the city of Moose Jaw in the 2025 Tourisim Magazine.

Owners of the Moose Jaw Express, Joan and Rob Ritchie present a cheque for $5000 to Tourism of Moose Jaw Director Donna Fritzke (centre).

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Origins of recipes often difficult to remember

After years of collecting cookbooks and individual recipes on cards or scraps of paper, it has become more and more difficult to remember the origins of some of the recipes.

While recently flipping through my collection, I came across the recipes that I am featuring this week.

• • • STEW AND CHEESE DUMPLINGS

Stew:

1 cup onions, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small zucchini, thickly sliced

1 red bell pepper, julienne cut

1 lb. ground buffalo or lean ground beef

2 cups water

1/4 cup ketchup

1 tsp. rice vinegar

1/4 tsp. pepper

2 tsps. beef base or cube

3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed

In a large oven-safe pot, over medium heat, saute onions, garlic, zucchini and red pepper. Add meat and brown. Add water, ketchup, vinegar, pepper, beef base and potatoes. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

Dumplings:

1/2 lb. medium cheddar cheeese, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp. parsley

1/4 cup crumbled bacon bits

1/2 lb. butter, softened

2 cups flour

2 tsps. baking powder

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. salt

3/4 cup cold milk or as needed

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Mix grated cheese, garlic, parsley, bacon and butter in a bowl. Add flour, baking powder, pepper and salt. Mix well. Add only enough milk to form a dough.

Spoon dumpling batter over top of stew. Cover. Bake in oven for 30 minutes. A crust will form, sealing in stew.

Makes 6 servings.

• • •

SKILLET SHRIMP AND POTATOES

2 tbsps. olive oil

2 tbsps. butter

2 medium white onions, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

10 baby carrots, cut in 3 pieces each

3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2 inch chunks

1/2 tsp. dried dill weed

salt and pepper to taste

1 lb. medium shrimp, peeled and deveined juice and zest of one lemon

3 scallions, chopped fine, using green and white parts

3 slices bacon, fried crisp and finely crumbled

1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

Place the olive oil and butter in a large heavy skillet over medium low heat. When the butter has melted, add the onion, garlic and carrots. Stir until all the vegetables are well coated. Add the potatoes and stir again until potatoes are well coated.

Add the dill, salt and pepper to taste. Sauté until potatoes are almost done, covering the skillet for 3-4 minutes at first.

Lay the shrimp on top of the vegetables and cook until just done.

Remove from heat and sprinkle with lemon juice, scallions and crumbled bacon. Garnish with extra virgin olive oil. Makes 3-4 servings.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Swanee Gemmell Named January’s Notoriously Good Neighbour

The City of Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce congratulate Swanee Gemmell, our “Notoriously Good Neighbour” for January.

The City of Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce created the program to recognize the Notoriously Friendly, Notoriously Generous and Notoriously Kind-Hearted Moose Javians making a Notoriously Positive difference in our community.

Nominated by his neighbours Lindsay & Kyle Oleniuk, Gemmell is described as the best neighbour they could ask for, who is constantly offering his time and efforts to others.

“Swanee snow blows our driveway, signs for our packages, and keeps an eye on our house,” Kyle Oleniuk explained. “He is happy to share his expertise and lends a

Submitted

hand with our home improvement projects.”

He also noted that Gemmell’s generosity isn’t always physical acts of kindness; he can also be very thoughtful as well. “He is a joy to be around, goes out of his way to converse with us and our pup when we are outside, and even congratulates us on our wedding anniversary every year,” Oleniuk added.

As an official “Notoriously Good Neighbour”, Gemmell was awarded gift certificates to Tunnels of Moose Jaw, a token of appreciation for his contributions to the community.

Moose Javians can nominate their Notoriously Good Neighbour by using the Report An Issue feature on MooseJaw.ca or the free City of Moose Jaw app.

Mr. Gemmell accepts his award from Heather Bergdahl of the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce, Raghvir Gill the City’s Bylaw Enforcement Officer, and his nominator Kyle Oleniuk.

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Thoughts on Chief of staff hiring for city manager BIZWORLD

This year’s City of Moose Jaw operating budget includes a new position in administration — chief officer to the city manager.

When city manager Maryse Carmichael asked for a chief of staff to assist her management duties, first thoughts believed this to be like a military management setup.

In the RCAF, where Carmichael was trained, all commanding officers have a chief warrant officer (CW0) assisting.

15 Wing has three CWOs - the 15 Wing commander, the No. 2 Flying Training School and the Snowbirds Squadron.

The duties of a CWO vary. Basically they arc an advisor and the eyes and ears to the commanding officer so

that the person knows what’s going on.

The commander and the CWO almost seem to be joined at the hip, spending a lot of time together.

The city chief of staff will likely assume a similar job.

The idea of a chief of staff is controversial drawing criticism online and on the streets from taxpayers thinking it a waste of money.

Well, maybe not.

The city manger said she needed the position to work on open files that were started and never completed due to changing priorities.

That may also have been an issue with past city managers. In over 40 years of covering or working closely with others reporting on city hall, Yours Truly knows of at least two, maybe

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

three city managers, who left behind a stack of unfinished files when they left. Another issue: angry taxpayers feeling ignored when they never got responses to letters.

Things just didn’t get done. Files get stored and ignored as new issues arose.

Business experience shows that management works best when it can focus on one or possibly two major issues.

Everything else takes a lower priority and awaits attention.

The City of Moose Jaw is no longer a peanut and popcorn operation.

Total annual budgets run over $110 million with operating budget over $52 million and the capital budget over $62 million.

Within those budgets the city manages water, solid waste and sewage utilities, a bus system and an array of projects as well as delivering parks and recreation, police, firefighting and economic development services.

The operation has around 400 employees.

On a day-to-day basis, there must be a lot of so-called fires to put out plus regular duties and planning ahead.

It would be difficult to find a complicated $100 million business operation without a chief assistant helping the CEO.

Time will tell but the new position should develop more responsive and efficient city hall operations. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Former law enforcement officer living his retirement dream with Cornerstone Country Bar

One newly retired law enforcement officer is starting to realize his retirement dream of two decades as renovations continue at the former Cornerstone Bar on Main Street North.

“I’ve been in here seven days a week, sometimes up to 16 hours a day, just getting everything ready and perfect for the community to come and see,” said Larry Baker, owner of the Cornerstone Country Bar.

Baker is preparing for a two-night grand opening production starting on Friday, Feb. 14, with doors opening at 7 p.m., and live music following at 10 p.m.

“It was really important to me that I kept the historic value of this property… because the Cornerstone is a landmark here,” he said about the Cornerstone name.

To remain on theme, his staff will don jeans and branded Wrangler shirts, and around 30 new jobs will be created.

“(Kyle Forrest) is leasing the kitchen from me with his Paddy Wagon brand. In order to have a liquor license you’ve got to have food, right, so I found him and we had a great chat,” Baker said.

For 28 years, Baker has worked in

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

law enforcement across Saskatchewan serving as a Special Constable in Candle Lake, director of protective services for the RM of Mervin, and as a contracted fire chief in the RM of Hoodoo.

Baker has also been a professional musician for the past 30 years.

With his production team in town from Ontario, Baker is now working on the final touches and hopes to deliver an unforgettable concert-style experience by combining the energy of a large-scale show with the charm of an intimate local setting.

“My plan is to set a very unique tone in here,” he explained. “We’re installing a professional light show on stage, and we’re going to have a professional sound system in here.”

Baker’s emphasis on entertainment extends beyond the music itself. “When I go into a club, I want to see a show; I don’t just want to see three or four guys playing instruments,” he said. With choreographed performances and nonstop, two-hour shows starting at 10 p.m., the Cornerstone Country Bar is set to redefine Moose Jaw’s live music scene.

On his opening night, Baker will

Baker is transforming the venue into a community-focused space. Along with its custom décor, including a handpainted and 3D-printed logo, the bar will feature memorabilia including a plaque from Baker’s appearance on Highway Through Hell and a dedicated section honouring fire and police personnel. He also plans to support mental health awareness with several upcoming events.

showcase “When Rock and Country Collide,” his very own trademarked twoday production that blends country and rock music genres. Friday night will feature his country band, and on Saturday, the stage will transform into an electrifying tribute to Hair Nation. To complete the deal, he hired local musicians from Moose Jaw to Regina and one from Saskatoon to join his band.

In the basement, a rustic, Al Capone-inspired Western saloon will soon be available to book private functions for around 40 individuals.

“We’re both very law enforcement friendly, and… I’ve spoken to a couple (members) of the Moose Jaw Police Service. I welcome them here, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with open arms — same with the (Moose Jaw Fire Department).

“It’s going to be a very unique, welcoming, and friendly experience, yet with zero tolerance (for rowdiness),” stated Baker. “I want this to be a place where everybody can come have a great time.”

For more information call 306-6924747, visit CornerstoneCountry.ca, or visit ‘Cornerstone Bar’ on Facebook.

The Cornerstone Country Bar is located at 8 Main Street North.

Larry Baker (pictured) is realizing his dream of owning a country music bar after serving 28 years in law enforcement and as a fire chief in the province. Photo by: Aaron Walker

PRAIRIE SOUTH SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT PSSD BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, MAR. 4, 2025

Delivering students by bus is Prairie South School Division’s preferred method of transportation, but it recognizes that some circumstances may require other arrangements and is updating its policies to reflect that.

The division recently updated board policy 17 so it aligns with administrative procedure 556 and administrative procedure 557, which deal with, respectively, transportation, conveyance allowance, and allowance in lieu of bus service.

The policy deals with Prairie South’s responsibility to provide transportation for students requiring access to school while it lays out provisions for the special use of buses to enable students to participate in learning and learning-related activities.

The main change to this document is under “conveyance allowance,” which previously read, “The daily maximum limit for authorized conveyance

PSSD increases payments for parents forced to drive kids to school

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

allowance will not exceed $50. Parents and/or guardians seeking conveyance allowance exceeding $50 may submit a request for review by the board.”

The updated section now reads, “The daily maximum limit for authorized conveyance allowance is outlined in administrative procedure 556: conveyance allowance.”

In AP 556, under “eligibility for conveyance allowance,” the updated document now reads, “The daily rate of conveyance allowance will be the same mileage expense rate established at the annual board organizational meeting. The daily maximum limit for authorized conveyance allowance will not exceed $80. Parents seeking conveyance allowance exceeding $80 may submit a request for review by the board.”

Therefore, the new maximum daily limit is $80 and not $50.

Furthermore, AP 556 says the divi-

sion will calculate the actual amount of conveyance allowance — paid monthly — by multiplying the daily rate by two round trips — previously one trip — driven by the number of days in each calendar month when the student was in school.

For example, under the previous conveyance allowance procedure and calculations, parents could be eligible for up to $124.80 when driving their children to school. The updated AP 556 now says parents are eligible for up to $440.96.

Meanwhile, AP 557, allowance in lieu of bus service, section 3 focuses on situations where the school divisionoperated bus is temporarily unable to run the regular route because of mechanical problems or lack of driver. In those cases, parents would be responsible for providing or arranging transportation to and from school for their kids.

If the bus is unavailable for four or

more consecutive days, “beginning on the fifth day,” parents are eligible for two round trips — previously one — paid at the per kilometre conveyance allowance approved rate under AP 556.

Division administration presented these changes during the recent PSSD board meeting, with trustees agreeing to receive them.

Afterward, Ryan Boughen, director of education, confirmed that these changes will mostly affect parents in rural areas.

He pointed out that there are usually more spare drivers in the city who can fill in for regular operators. However, there are fewer drivers in rural communities, so it’s likely that students may be without bus service for four straight days and their parents may have to transport them to school.

The next PSSD board meeting is Tuesday, March 4

Five per cent of PSSD students face over 75-minute morning bus rides

Prairie South School Division transported nearly 3,000 students during the 2023-24 school year, with roughly five per cent being on the bus longer than 75 minutes in the mornings, a new report shows.

Division administration presented the 2023-24 transportation accountability report during the February board meeting, with the document providing data about Prairie South’s transportation activities.

The division transported 2,847 students on 106 routes in 19 communities last year, with all the buses travelling 18,214 daily, the report said. Of those students, 1,883 were rural and 964 were urban.

The average ride time for the former was 35 minutes, while the average ride time for the latter was 13 minutes, the document continued. The data shows that these times have been relatively consistent during the past five years.

The report noted that the longest

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

morning ride time was for students at Lindale School, at 107 minutes, a number that has increased from 83 minutes in 2019-20. However, the average ride time to that school was 52 minutes.

Meanwhile, division-wide in the morning, 922 students were on the bus for less than 15 minutes, 644 youths were on the bus for 16 to 30 minutes, 368 kids rode the bus for 31 to 45 minutes, 357 youths were on the bus for 46 to 60 minutes, 230 students rode the bus for 61 to 75 minutes and 146 kids — or about five per cent — rode for longer than 75 minutes.

Todd Johnson, manager of transportation, told trustees that the ride times at Lindale School were “noticeable,” but pointed out that that bus drops off kids at three other schools — two with Holy Trinity and one with PSSD — when it comes into Moose Jaw before finishing at Lindale.

Routes

Lindale School had the greatest number of bus routes for a rural school,

with 21, while Assiniboia had the second-most with 10, the report said. Meanwhile, there were 27 total routes in Moose Jaw, although staggered school start times allowed the department to accommodate double routes, where one driver provides service to two schools with separate pick-ups and drop-offs; 14 drivers do double routes.

Charter trips

The division received 1,798 charter requests during the 2023-24 school year, with 1,565 curriculum-based and 233 sport-related, while 144 were cancelled for various reasons, including Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation sanctions, the report said. In comparison, there were 1,758 total trips in 202223, 1,301 trips in 2021-22, 18 trips in 2020-21 and 958 trips in 2019-20.

The report noted that Prairie South resumed charter trips in September 2021 after the province lifted pandemic restrictions.

“I love showing the charters (as) the students are getting out and learn-

ing, and the numbers are increasing again, which is fantastic for us and for the students,” said Johnson.

Expenses

Prairie South spent $7,478,763 on bus maintenance expenses last year, which was similar to the year before, the report said.

Furthermore, the division spent $1,816,731 to purchase 10 buses, which was $498,116 more than the year before and $541,477 more than in 2019-20; the goal is to buy 10 new vehicles annually.

Of those buses, seven were 72-passenger vehicles and three were 54-passenger vehicles.

Vehicle accidents

There were 21 vehicle accidents in 2023-24 that cost the division $5,469.12, while 12 incidents were “minimal to no damage” and were not reported to SGI, the report said. Mechanics repaired the vehicles during regular maintenance, although one bus was a total loss.

PRAIRIE SOUTH SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT PSSD BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, MAR. 4, 2025

Prairie South School Division’s transportation department is facing issues attracting and retaining bus drivers because regular SGI-mandated retesting requirements are placing undue stress on existing operators — with two recently quitting.

Todd Johnson, manager of transportation, presented the 2023-24 transportation accountability report during the January board meeting. The report contained information about the division’s activities in transporting students to school, the number of routes, run times, distance travelled and other statistics.

Drivers must retest every five years and have a current satisfactory medical examination on file with SGI, while department office staff annually review drivers’ abstracts through the MySGI Online program and monthly check licences using SGI’s internet site, the report said.

Prairie South losing bus drivers over ‘troublesome’ SGI retesting criteria

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

“This year alone, we’ve had two drivers that said the process is not for them and they are stepping away because they don’t want to retest,” Johnson told the board.

School bus drivers possess an S-endorsed licence, which means every five years, they must retake a medical exam, re-take a written test, re-perform the bus circle test and re-do the driving test, he continued. This retesting costs PSSD $46,000 every half-decade.

People with this licence are the only ones in Saskatchewan who must do this, which is “a real hindrance” since semidrivers with 1A licences only require a medical exam, the transportation manager noted. Transit bus drivers in Moose Jaw, Saskatoon and Regina do not face these rigorous requirements, either.

Forcing school bus drivers to retake these tests every half-decade is also

“troublesome” because those operators experience “extreme worry” over several days, said Johnson. It’s also difficult for the department to reassure those drivers that they can pass those tests and that they can succeed.

“But some of them are just stepping away saying, ‘I don’t want the stress of trying to re-write this test again,’” he remarked. “So that’s the bad part. … This is a Saskatchewan theme.”

In comparison, other provinces want bus operators to have updated medical checks when renewing their licences, although anyone who has not driven in five years must re-take the driving exam, he added.

Johnson noted that attracting and retaining drivers is the biggest obstacle the department faces, a problem that he sees in every community that Prairie South serves. His report indicated that while the

division has hovered around 106 regular bus drivers for several years, the number of casual drivers has decreased to 44 from 76 in 2019-20.

To address this problem, he thought the board should lobby the provincial government to make changes since many residents who may be interested in driving don’t know about the need to retest every five years. Meanwhile, he and other school division transportation managers have been in talks with SGI about adjusting the requirements.

“It seems discriminatory,” said trustee Mary Jukes.

Trustee Brett Hagan said it was good to be aware of the requirements that SGI was imposing on school bus drivers and how Saskatchewan was an outlier compared to other provinces. Moreover, he thought this showed a need for the board to advocate for changes.

Staples Canada gets $2M contract for cleaning supplies at Coteau Hills school

Prairie South School Division has given Staples Canada a $2 million contract to provide cleaning and janitorial supplies for the new Coteau Hills Elementary School over the next five years.

The division awarded the company the contract in January after posting a tender on SaskTenders looking for custodial supplies and bathroom dispensers, with the half-decade contract having an estimated value of $400,000 annually, according to a report presented during the recent board of education meeting.

“This (tender) was a little bit earlier than we would have done otherwise, but

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

we needed to have our dispensers and stuff for the new school,” Ron Purdy, superintendent of finance, told trustees.

“So, we did this now.”

When division administration awarded the contract, it also “evaluated the basket of goods” that it would be receiving and determined that the value of the supplies is actually around $205,000 per year, even though the contract is worth roughly $400,000 annually, he continued.

“This is our first contract with Staples, so we’ll see how that goes,” Purdy added.

When asked whether administration had considered awarding the contract to a local company, Purdy said everyone could apply for the contract on SaskTenders since it’s a provincial website. However, no one locally applied for the tender.

Also, in January, the division office needed to replace a planer for Central Collegiate’s practical and applied arts program, so it purchased that tool from Busy Bee Tools for $15,373.

Administrative procedure 513 deals with issuing contracts and says the board has delegated responsibility for the

awarding of tenders to division administration, except where bids received for capital projects exceed budget, the board report said. In that case, the board can accept or reject those tenders. Meanwhile, competitive bids are required for the purchase, lease or acquisition of an interest in real or personal property, for the purchase of building materials, for the provision of transportation services and for other services exceeding $75,000, and for the construction, renovation or alteration of a building and other capital works exceeding $200,000, the report added.

Greek mixed-media artist Antonis Tzanidakis is returning to Moose Jaw

The artistic community in Moose Jaw is about to experience a cultural renaissance as internationally acclaimed Greek mixed-media artist Antonis Tzanidakis is returning for his third visit to teach a series of art classes this spring.

Tzanidakis will be instructing at the Moose Jaw Union Centre from Friday, April 11, until Sunday, April 13.

“His experience is nothing but love

and acceptance for the mixed-media community. He works for (Budapestbased Stamperia International Kft.) where he teaches various techniques and methods all over the world,” said Denise Helland, a local artist and hairstylist who will be hosting Tzanidakis for the second time this year.

“The last (visit) was supposed to be his last tour to Canada, but he loves it

Gong Xi Fa Cai!

Happy Chinese New Year!

On behalf of the Moose Jaw Chinese Communitv Network, we would like to thank the following local businesses and individuals for making our Moose Jaw Chinese community's January 27th Chinese New Year Celebration a success:

Grant Hall Hotel

Homeland Village Operation

Royal Bank of Canada

Donald’s Fine Food

Kozy Home Kitchenware

e Quon Family

Jade Garden Restaurant

Landscape Restaurant

Ms. Josie Qiao (Realty Executives)

Hopkins Dining Parlour

Gina Jewelry International

Maple Leaf Bakery

Murray’s Signs Moose Jaw

Mr. Leo Li

Tuxedo Place Moose Jaw

UniqueSK Auto

Town N Country Mall Laosen

teractive, combining hands-on practice with demonstrations from Tzanidakis. Guests can explore techniques such as layering textures, integrating found objects, and experimenting with colour to create striking multi-dimensional pieces.

Local art enthusiasts and those simply curious about mixed media creations are also encouraged to attend, as the sessions are tailored to accommodate everyone from beginners to wellseasoned artists looking for some fresh inspiration.

here and he wants to come back,” she said.

Having made a name for himself across Europe and North America, Tzanidakis has gained a following thanks to his unique ability to merge classical Greek artistic traditions with contemporary techniques. His work frequently explores the themes of identity, history, and nature using diverse media such as acrylic, plaster, and recycled materials.

The upcoming visit goes well beyond just another set of art classes and provides a rare opportunity to learn from what has been described as one of the world’s most innovative creators. To date, he’s taught in over 50 countries and more than 300 cities around the world.

Helland first met Tzanidakis while attending one of his earlier classes in Winnipeg, Man., and was inspired by his creative process. When she asked if he’d visit Moose Jaw he simply asked her to reach out with details on when and where.

“When he teaches, he’s very positive and makes the experience lots of fun. He’s got a theory that there’s too much negativity in work,” she said, adding that he acknowledges individual creative differences and views something new as a creative expression rather than a mistake.

Tzanidakis’ five classes will be spread over three days, giving participants plenty of opportunities to dive deep into different aspects of mixedmedia art during each five-hour session.

The upcoming classes will be called “Exotic Garden,” “Believe Your Heart,” “The Art of Travel,” “Dreams,” and “Steampunk Balloon.”

Each session is designed to be in-

Everything will be supplied except for some personal tools including a paintbrush, pencil, and maybe a pair of scissors. If you want to purchase a few additional supplies, Helland recommends Scrappin’ With T, a local scrapbooking store located at 26B Main Street North. The store’s owner, Teresa Fellinger, also helps her organize some of the visiting artists’ classes.

To add to the excitement, Tzanidakis will be unveiling a new collection on his Facebook and Instagram pages on Wednesday, Feb. 12. In April, he’ll bring some of these works along with him.

Although Tzanidakis’ class prices have since gone up, he will honour the earlier price of $125 per class. To register, contact Helland by email at DHelland@Sasktel.net.

Helland is advising guests to register well in advance as limited spots are expected to fill up quickly.

To learn more visit ‘Handmade Fantasy’ on Facebook or view Tzanidakis’ collection at StamperiaB2B.com/ Shop-By-Category.

The Moose Jaw Union Centre is located at 1402 Caribou Street West.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Greek mixed-media artist Antonis Tzanidakis will be visiting Moose Jaw from Friday, April 11, until Sunday, April 13. Photo by: Submitted photo

A mixed-media piece by Antonis Tzanidakis titled “Believe in Your Heart.” Photo by: Submitted photo

Moose Jaw Kinettes reflect on eight decades of community service

The historic Grant Hall Hotel was filled with nostalgia, laugher, and heartfelt memories as members of the Moose Jaw Kinette Club celebrated 80 years with a come and go event reflecting on eight decades of service this Feb. 8.

The milestone brought together past, present, and prospective members, alongside local dignitaries including MLA for Moose Jaw Wakamow Megan Patterson and around nine individuals from other Kinette Club locations in the province.

“The Kin is about service and volunteering, but fellowship is also a huge part of it,” said Michelle Duckworth, president of the Moose Jaw Kinette Club. “Getting to just visit and have fun is also a huge part of our organization, so being able to have that be our vibe today is really awesome.”

Duckworth said around 40 individuals attended throughout the day with a relaxed, casual tone.

“We’ve had members of the general public come, which is awesome, and just check us out… Then we’ve had lots of past… ladies who have been in the club back in the ‘60s (to the) ‘90s…,” she noted.

Members explored the history of the Kinette Club in Moose Jaw — a fitting gesture for the anniversary celebration

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

War. In response to a radio appeal, founder Harold A. Rogers rallied Kinsmen and Kinettes across Canada to raise funds to purchase powdered milk. By its conclusion, the campaign raised close to $3 million and sent approximately 50 million quarts of milk to Britain.

Duckworth reminisced about a time not that long ago when membership was exclusively open to wives of Kinsmen Club members and the club was limited to an auxiliary role. One of these roles — discovered through the archives — was a time when the Kinettes sold wood flooring to be installed at the Natatorium in Crescent Park.

By the ‘80s, the Kinette Club was a full part of Kin Canada and no longer held the auxiliary designation. Ever since, Kinette Clubs took on an independent role with memberships open to anyone interested in sharing the club’s mission.

— by sharing several decades’ worth of newspaper clippings, club minutes, and other records from the Moose Jaw Public Library archives.

“We actually have different news articles… all over the tables and yeah, that was really cool that they had all of that,” Duckworth said. “As we were looking through (the archive materi-

als)… it was like, ‘Oh, I had no idea that the Kinettes were part of this.’”

In addition to the Kinette Club founding Meals on Wheels in Moose Jaw and sponsoring several sports teams and other community events, Duckworth shared a few lesser known past projects highlighted by the archives.

“Originally the club started because, across the country, Kinsmen and Kinette Clubs in the ‘40s were doing what they called the ‘Milk for Britain’ campaign because children in Britain had a milk shortage during the war…,” she shared.

The “Milk for Britain” campaign was a significant wartime initiative led by Kin Canada during the Second World

The Kinette Club’s 80-year milestone would not be possible without a supportive community. From new memberships to its community fundraising projects, this involvement has been essential, Duckworth noted.

If you’re interested in joining the Moose Jaw Kinette Club, you can reach out at MooseJawKinetteClub@gmail. com, by phone at 306-631-1403, or through any of the club’s active social media channels including ‘Moose Jaw Kinette Club’ on Facebook.

All regular club meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at the Comfort Inn’s meeting room at 155 Thatcher Drive.

One person hurt after two-vehicle collision briefly closes bridge

By MooseJawToday.com staff

The Moose Jaw Police Service briefly closed the southbound lane of the Ninth Avenue bridge over lunch on Feb. 4 to deal with a two-vehicle collision.

In a brief statement, the police service said it responded to a collision

involving two automobiles, which resulted in one injury to an occupant, two tickets to the at-fault driver, and roughly $5,000 in damages to the vehicles.

The police reopened the southbound lane of the bridge around 1 p.m.

Past and present members of the Moose Jaw Kinettes celebrate the club’s 80year milestone at the Grant Hall Hotel on Feb. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Members of Kinette Clubs in Moose Jaw and across the province met to celebrate eight decades of community service at the Grant Hall Hotel on Feb. 8.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

Moose Jaw working to kill cockroaches at Sportsplex pool, city says

City hall has advised users of the Kinsmen Sportsplex that it has detected cockroaches in the pool area and is taking

An inspection report from the Saskatchewan Health Authority from December 2024 into the cleanliness at the Kinsmen Sportsplex, particularly around the concession area. Photo courtesy SHA website

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

measures to exterminate the bugs.

Derek Blais, director of community services, issued a letter on Jan. 29 addressing the issue. He wrote that the City of Moose Jaw was committed to providing “safe, clean and welcoming recreational facilities” for residents, but that venue staff had spotted cockroaches in various locations around the pool.

The director noted that city hall had taken steps to address the issue, including:

• Consulting with public health and hosting a site visit to ensure adherence to best practices for sanitation and pest control

• Engaging a local pest control company to carry out fumigation treatments in the affected areas

• Collaborating with building staff and the concession contractor to ensure thorough cleaning of all affected areas

“While sightings have been isolated, we continue to work closely with pest

A screenshot from a video shows a cockroach on the floor of the Kinsmen Sportsplex pool area.

control professionals to carry out treatments following any reported sighting,” Blais said.

“We kindly ask that any sighting be reported to the front desk staff so that prompt action can be taken,” he continued. “To date, there is no evidence of an infestation and we remain committed to closely monitoring and addressing any further occurrences.”

Blais added that city hall was working to resolve this matter and it would continue to collaborate with public health and pest control professionals to monitor and manage the situation while maintaining its “rigorous cleaning protocols” to ensure the venue remained safe and enjoyable for everyone.

‘Good dog!’: Sask. Polytech purchases quadrupedal

Post-secondary students and local businesses might soon witness the transformational power of cutting-edge technology, thanks to Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s latest acquisition: a quadruped robotic “dog” designed to tackle complex, critical tasks for applied research and fee-for-service projects.

Officially named Vision 60 Quadrupedal Unmanned Ground Vehicle (Q-UGV) and built by Ghost Robotics, this new robotic dog offers advanced capabilities including inspections at mine sites, surveillance, and mapping across difficult terrain. Plus, true to its canine appearance, the robot is fully capable of rolling over and fetching objects — with the help of a built-in robotic arm.

Situated at Sask. Polytech’s Digital Integration Centre of Excellence (DICE) in Saskatoon, the robot could prove invaluable for field testing in hazardous environments and will help local sectors explore digital solutions without significant upfront costs.

“The quadruped is an autonomous digital sensor/manipulator platform that

A user of the venue shared a video with the Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com of a cockroach in or near the pool area. The user recorded the video on her cellphone while swimming there a few weeks ago.

Meanwhile, based on a complaint, the Saskatchewan Health Authority inspected the Kinsmen Sportsplex on Dec. 17, 2024, and allegedly found the concession area to be in non-compliance with public health rules. Further, the venue had allegedly failed to maintain the area, which supposedly harboured cockroaches.

However, a follow-up on Jan. 28, 2025, found no infractions.

The city has not provided an estimated time when it expects to eliminate the cockroaches.

The Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com reached out to city hall to comment on the SHA inspections but has not received a response as of publication time.

robot to assist with cutting-edge research

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Officially named Vision 60 Q-UGV, this robotic “dog” was recently purchased by Sask. Polytech to assist with cutting-edge applied research projects in the province. Photo by: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

allows DICE to assist with inspections and mapping, the initial stages of product development, and subsequent testing in a variety of unique situations and environments,” said Dr. Terry Peckham, the DICE director and research chair.

Dr. Peckham emphasized that the robot could play an important role in Saskatchewan’s digital landscape in fields such as agriculture, energy, and

mining.

“The quadruped is a game-changer for businesses hesitant to invest in expensive digital platforms,” he said, adding that “Our quadruped will help Saskatchewan’s agriculture, mining, and potentially many other industries with digital transformation.”

The robot is equipped with a variety of sensors and radios on a relatively simple platform. This straightforward approach to the base design easily allows students to adapt to a wide range of research projects and different field applications.

“The quadruped is our eyes and ears on the ground. We will be able to view exactly what the quadruped detects through its mobile cameras and sensor platforms,” explained Kelvin Boechler, the DICE research manager.

Having access to the DICE quadruped will allow businesses to conduct proof-of-concept and field trials without the need to invest in unfamiliar — and costly — alternative technologies.

According to Boechler, the quadru-

ped can work in tandem with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), autonomous vehicles, and digital sensors, and includes the ability to operate in GPS-denied or limited environments such as underground mines, tunnels, and building interiors.

DICE’s innovative projects with the quadruped robot offers students and recent graduates the unique opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, thereby allowing them to gain practical experience using advanced technology.

As Saskatchewan’s first Technology Access Centre (TAC), supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) and Innovation Saskatchewan, DICE specializes in applied research related to data analysis, storage, and display — positioning itself as a valuable hub for collaboration and innovation in the province.

For more information visit SaskPolytech.ca/DICE.

Sask. Polytech students meet potential employers during annual career fair

Saskatchewan Polytechnic welcomed hundreds of students and soon-to-be graduates to its annual career fair hosted by the school’s Student Employment Services and sponsored by the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) and Viterra on Feb. 5.

“We hosted a career fair because it’s an excellent opportunity for students to practice their networking skills, meet with professionals in their field, and really just learn more about potential career paths and opportunities…,” explained Laura Sperlie, director of strategic enrolment management at Sask. Polytech.

“Our Sask. Polytechnic has a 96 per cent employment rate (after graduation), so we also view (this career fair) as a really exciting opportunity for employers to meet some potential employees down the road.”

The career fair, held in February or March across all four campuses, follows fall workshops and webinars designed to enhance students’ job-readiness skills.

The career fair is exclusive to Sask. Polytech students and Sperlie described this as “one of the perks of being a student with us,” adding that it helps students gain confidence. Additionally, the school hosts mini career fairs, virtual presentations, and lunchtime learning opportunities throughout the semester to help students connect with a career.

“I would say that, for every program that we offer here, there’s some potential employers here today that students can connect with,” she said.

Another perk is educating students on a wide range of employment opportunities that may have been overlooked. “If you think about health care, they

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

in the sector — are also hiring marketing managers, human resource workers, and other roles outside of agriculture.

One employer was Green Infrastructure Partners (GIP) represented by survey manager Tyler Wilson and quality control manager Kyle Fallon. Returning for the second year, GIP is a civic contractor specializing in roadway and heavy civil contracts. Both representatives spoke well about the Sask. Polytech job placement program.

“Last year we hired a bachelor construction management student out of the Regina (Sask. Polytech) campus and she was absolutely excellent,” Fallon said. “We do quite a few of these career fairs, and Sask. Polytech puts on one of the best ones… (Students) come and talk to the employers (and) they have very good questions; they’re very well prepared.”

One of the event’s sponsors, RBC, was represented by Leighton Smith, community manager of the Moose Jaw region.

“This is a testament to the great work that Sask. Polytech does,” he said. “The students that are coming here are ready for the workforce. You see a lot of institutions where, okay, you have the education, but maybe you don’t have the actual soft skills… (that an) employer would be looking for... With these folks, a lot of them have that.”

To learn more about Sask. Polytech and its range of programs or to reach out as an employer for future career fair opportunities visit SaskPolytech.ca.

The Sask. Polytech Campus in Moose Jaw is located at 600 Saskatchewan Street West.

might need health care students, but they also might need cooks or disability youth workers,” Sperlie explained.

This realization was one of the main lessons that business diploma students Gurleen Sandhu and Krutika Jadha received during the fair.

“In my mind it was just SaskPower, SGI, and all those (common) compa-

nies that I was focusing on,” Jadha said. “But, looking here…, I can move towards other companies as well, and not just those two or three companies that I (originally) knew about.”

The two students pointed to a nearby booth representing Nutrien. Despite being an agriculture-based employer, they learned that Nutrien — and others

Green Infrastructure Partners (GIP) was one of the nearly 90 employers at the Sask. Polytech career fair represented by survey manager Tyler Wilson (left) and quality control manager Kyle Fallon (right). Photo by: Aaron Walker

One of the career fair’s two main sponsors, the Royal Bank of Canada, was represented by Brayden Fehr (left), Yashika Sharma (centre), and Leighton Smith (right). Photo by: Aaron Walker

Flyer Electric was one of the vendors at the Sask. Polytech career fair and included a visit by president and CEO Terry Tessier (left). Photo by: Aaron Walker

Human resources business advisor Madison Carle represents Rocky Mountain Equipment at Sask. Polytech on Feb. 5. Photo by: Aaron Walker

GAX returns for a three-day gaming expo at the Centre for Arts and Culture

Board game, fantasy, and role play hobbyists attended the returning Gamers Association eXpo (GAX) hosted by Moose Jaw Gamers Association that has become a cornerstone for gaming enthusiasts in the community earlier this month.

The expo ran from Feb. 7 to 9 at the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture (MJCAC) and organizers hoped to spread word of the group and perhaps bring on a few additional members.

“The easiest way to know if you’re a good fit (for the Moose Jaw Gamers) is to come out to one of the events, because it shows exactly what we’re about — having fun and raising money for a good cause,” said Brooks Nancarrow, president of the Moose Jaw Gamers.

The Gamers choose a children’s charity to support at each yearly expo,

Hopfe

represents Weyburn-based Stranger Danger Candy Co. at GAX ’25 on Feb. 8. The company imports rare candies from 17 countries and Hopfe plans to make a return for Sidewalk Days this summer. To learn more visit StrangerDangerCandyCo.ca.

Aaron

and Hunger in Moose Jaw was chosen in 2025.

“Hunger in Moose Jaw is important because they do all the lunch programs for the elementary schools in town, and that is definitely (crucial) with the rising costs of everything. Having kids be able to access a lunch consistently is definitely something important,” he said.

The annual expo is typically held in early February. Following the post-pandemic reopening, scheduling challenges and increased summer travel led to the cancellation of the summer counterpart that was held previously.

“(We) started off as a bunch of guys just getting together back before the internet was good enough to play online… consistently,” Nancarrow reminisced. “We would get together… for a Local Area Network (LAN) party and gradually kept growing. More and more people showed up until (we) realized we don’t have enough room in one person’s house.”

From there, the group began renting halls with financial support from its members.

“After that first time, they realized they had a bunch of money left over. So, they were like, ‘Well, we don’t feel right keeping this money for ourselves because everyone is pitching in.’ So, they decided, ‘Let’s donate.’ That’s where the Gamers Association started, and the

“We currently play out of the basement of the Lumsden Legion Hall, which is an amazing place to play a war game based on World War Two,” said Matt Valgardson, a member of FOW Regina Rifles.

Despite no major changes to the expo’s format, Nancarrow said the event saw more vendors than previously with seven attending to provide snacks, gaming dice, and 3D printed goodies.

“Other than that, I would like to give a shout out to Déjà vu Café, because they donated our door prize, which is the Barad-dûr Lego set,” Nancarrow said.

yearly event turned into what GAX is now.”

The recent expo featured a Super Smash Bros. tournament, a Flames of War tournament, Settlers of Catan boardgames and more, with vendors attending over three days. Among these vendors were Weyburn-based Stranger Danger Candy specializing in rare candy imported from 17 countries, Foxx Design, Samurai Sam 3D Printing, and The Three Creators Collective.

In the basement of the MJCAC amidst role playing and Pokémon card games, Flames of War tournaments were held including Flames of War (FOW) Regina Rifles, a tabletop gaming team with naming permission granted by the Royal Regina Rifles.

The Moose Jaw Gamers are currently seeking a few additional board members and are recruiting new members in general. With a few more in its ranks, the group hopes to bring back its “Sunday Fun Days” on the third Sunday of each month where members meet at a given local restaurant to play board games during the afternoon.

For more information visit MJGA. ca or ‘Moose Jaw Gamers’ on Facebook.

more information contact Voss at SamuraiSam3D@hotmail.com.

Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Gamers attend a LAN party in the basement of the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture during GAX ’25 on Feb. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Flames of War (FOW) Regina Rifles member Matt Valgardson (right, off camera) plans his next attack demonstrating the required precision during GAX 2025 on Feb. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Delea

(pictured)

Photo by: Aaron Walker

Kristy Lavallee (pictured) represents the Three Creators Collective, a local enterprise that creates custom 3D printed works. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Darci Voss (pictured), owner of Samurai Sam 3D, sells custom 3D printed wares from game pieces and dice towers to custom commercial products in Moose Jaw. For

Photo by: Aaron Walker

A Sith lord was spotted with lightsaber at the ready during GAX 2025 on Feb. 8. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Charity pitches differ in style and success

The line-up at the department store checkout was short but the young woman with a cart full of items offered to let me in with one item and go first.

I declined, thinking how polite she is.

She placed her items on the counter with a lot of snacks explaining to no one in particular that she was assembling a care package for her fiancee who was sick at home.

How sweet, I thought.

She talked with pride about her twoyear-old toddler at home.

As she unloaded her cart I noticed (some personal items) were on top of the pile.

Hmm, I wondered, part of the care package? but kept my thoughts to myself.

Her colourful hair with brown roots suited her. I was about to tease her by asking how much it cost to get brown roots but decided not to do so.

As the cashier finished ringing in her items she asked if the young woman wanted to donate to the Food Bank.

“Sure,” she replied. I know what it’s like to go without.”

And she gave $10.

How nice, I thought. How inspiring. We hear so often how the younger generation is self-centred. How wrong in this instance

“Bless you,” said the cashier, “Can I give you a hug?‘‘

She agreed and they hugged.

The young woman inspired me to make a $10 donation.

No hug for this old geezer though.

Donations to good causes make a difference in people’s lives. Some pitches for donations discourage one from helping.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, FEB. 10

OPINION

EDITORIAL: TRADING THOUGHTS

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.

Recently I’ve had a few condescending phone calls with friendly yet high pressure tactics.

The first from a well-known organization started with the phrase “It’s so nice to hear a friendly voice” once I said Hello.

Then he went rambling on from a script about how the charity did work and how it needed funds.

After trying to interrupt his spiel three times by saying I wasn’t in a position at this time to help, but hearing him continue talking I hung up.

The second incident was also a phone call from an organization I had never heard about.

“How nice to hear a friendly voice. Would you believe I haven’t had one an-

swer in half an hour?’’

She wanted a donation of $80 a month.

“I’m a senior. I’m on a fixed income, I can’t help.‘‘ was my response.

“I know times are tough. We need your help,’’ she said, continuing to read from a script. She wasn’t a good reader either.

Finally I hung up.

This is on top of scams like the security breach on the Visa card we don’t have, or the software problems with the Microsoft computer we don’t have.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

To enhance efficiency and improve community service efforts, city hall plans to create two new positions to support activities with planning and development, bylaws, and building inspections.

During the 2025 budget discussions, city council unanimously authorized the community services department to redirect $18,092 from the vacant bylaw officer position toward a new supervisor position for the just-created community standards division.

This supervisor will offer enhanced oversight of two bylaw officers and two building officials and address gaps in supervision, a budget report said. This money will cover the salary difference between the bylaw enforcement officer and supervisor positions, including overhead costs.

The new division brings together building standards officials and bylaw enforcement officers.

Council also authorized the department to spend $16,141 to hire a seasonal summer student to support the planning and development branch during the peak construction months of May to August.

The student will help speed up per-

New city hall staff to enhance efficiency, improve customer service

mit approvals and enhance service delivery to residents and contractors, while focusing primarily on administrative tasks and responding to public inquiries, the report said. This will allow the branch’s two planners to focus on their main responsibilities, such as managing the Official Community Plan and zoning bylaw.

Supervisory role

The primary focus of the manager of planning and development is on development activities, leaving the enforcement and building areas without adequate oversight, direction or supervision, Derek Blais, director of community services, said during a budget meeting.

This lack of oversight limits the ability of these areas to engage in long-term planning or implement major improvements, leaving staff without consistent guidance and support, he continued.

City hall had envisioned using a third bylaw enforcement officer to generate revenue through increased fines, but it has since shifted its stance and recognized that “relying on fines is not a sustainable revenue source,” Blais remarked. The municipality has also en-

Jason G. Antonio

countered challenges with this approach since court time is limited and there are inefficiencies in the ticketing process.

So, having a supervisor provide additional support to the two bylaw officers will enhance service delivery and hopefully reduce the frustration of “dissatisfied individuals,” he said. Meanwhile, the two bylaw officers are sufficient to manage the current workload.

Blais added that a major priority for this division will be addressing derelict properties, particularly through updating the property maintenance standards bylaw.

Asked whether there was grant funding available to offset the summer student cost, Blais replied that his department relies on federal grant funding annually to support the summer playgrounds program. However, the city did not receive that money last year, similar to other third-party community groups such as Tourism Moose Jaw and the Festival of Words.

“We have applied again this year, and we will see where things go,” he said. “If we apply for this position, it would just mean another position would

not (be funded).”

Blais added that city hall has enough space to accommodate the two new positions — some configuration of offices will occur — while he would wait for the new online permitting software program to go live before deciding whether to eliminate the summer student position in the future.

Coun. Dawn Luhning appreciated knowing that city hall would approve permits faster but wanted city administration to provide a future update about whether the additional staff were increasing customer service.

“We need to know if it’s working because if it’s not helping anything or the average citizen is not seeing the benefit of it with these initiatives, then we as a council need to know that,” she said, noting that council wants residents to receive better customer service.

Luhning added that before the 2026 budget discussions occurred, she wanted administration to provide a summary report of all the initiatives and positions council had approved this year and how they were doing.

- MooseJawToday.com

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, FEB. 10

During her nearly two years as city manager, Maryse Carmichael has come to understand the issues facing Moose Jaw and the need to enhance customer service and develop ways to measure projects’ successes.

However, with all the other work coming across her desk and regular demands from city council, she is unable to fully dedicate her time to implementing these two initiatives.

This is why she wants to hire a chief of staff (COS) who can support her, the mayor and executive leadership with research, project leadership, co-ordination of initiatives, communication with stakeholders, meeting strategic goals and enhancing operational efficiency.

This position would allow senior leadership to focus on high-level strategic initiatives, manage critical tasks effectively, meet priorities and drive the organization forward.

Council agreed that Carmichael requires extra support because, during a 2025 budget meeting, it voted 6-1 to approve the chief of staff position for $124,552. This money is not the full salary but includes costs for other things like furniture and benefits.

Mayor James Murdock was opposed.

A good investment

Carmichael said having a COS would help prevent files or projects from remaining open-ended and uncompleted. She has come across many old files — like land disputes or contract negotia-

tions — that are decades old and have never been concluded.

She noted that, that sometimes happens with different administrations, where staff work on a large file, it fades away unexpectedly, and then someone else finds it and attempts to resolve it.

“I’ve worked diligently to get those files fully resolved and closed, but it takes a lot of time,” Carmichael said.

A chief of staff could handle that work — especially contract negotiations — and conduct research and provide that information to the city manager, she continued. The COS could also take some work from directors so they can focus on meeting objectives.

“I fully understand that every time administration makes a request (for money), it comes from our residents. I’m fully conscious of that,” Carmichael said.

“(But) I think in this case, it is a good investment for our administration and for our city because it will (not only) be … a resource for my office but (will) really be for the benefit of the community.”

This position would likely require someone who is a generalist since the person would manage or lead certain projects, such as negotiating contracts or implementing initiatives, she stated.

Carmichael noted that the COS — who would be her right hand — would let her focus on “being the best partner to council,” making its objectives a reality, focusing on the next decade, and

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

addressing the municipality’s financial situation.

“Maybe I can go back to my military days and bark a couple of orders and the person could do it,” she chuckled. “Perhaps I could give the person my vision and they could execute it.”

Council comments

Murdock said that when he was campaigning to be mayor, many people told him that he needed to “make city hall accountable.” Since starting in his role, he has seen the many things Carmichael does but needed more time to fully understand the COS role before voting for it.

The mayor added that he was “fearful” about approving this position since it “may look bad” to some city employees who are currently in bargaining situations.

This request is “a big ask,” but the city manager’s tasks are large as well, said Coun. Jamey Logan. He initially thought hiring a COS was “nuts,” but he realized the amount of time, effort, and work that administration dedicates to running the city.

“They can only juggle so many things, and eventually, some things fall through the cracks … ,” he continued. “And it’s not for lack of effort, for sure, (but) it’s a lack of team power pulling the rope in the right direction.”

Logan added that the city manager does too much reacting to daily incidents and “putting out fires,” instead of being proactive and helping the city suc-

ceed and grow.

Coun. Dawn Luhning said she was pleased that council hired Carmichael because the latter has kept members informed about situations that past city managers never did. That has been important, especially if residents mention topics during a public forum, while it has allowed her to be a better councillor.

The councillor added that council is slightly to blame for overburdening the city manager since she is their only employee and it would be inappropriate to send duties to directors.

Council hired Carmichael because it was displeased with how city hall was operating and members wanted someone to think “outside the box” to address issues, which is what she has done, said Coun. Heather Eby.

Furthermore, the COS position will make Carmichael and council “more accountable in a big way” to residents because the person will ensure files are being addressed and closed, she added.

Since being elected, Coun. Carla Delaurier said she had been educated “right quick” about the work the city manager and city clerk’s office do and the hours they work. She admitted to being “a cheapskate” and struggled to support this position, especially with budget challenges, but realized a COS was needed.

“I’m a former finger shaker of city hall, so I stand corrected on so many levels,” she added.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, FEB. 10

The Events Centre will require a subsidy this year that is $42,000 less than last year, a result of more live events, greater food and beverage sales and higher ticket sales.

In 2025, building manager OVG360 is projecting revenues of $2,562,866 and expenses of $3,560,002, resulting in a deficit of $997,136, and after including the management fee of $156,726, the overall subsidy will be $1,153,860, a budget report said.

In comparison, in 2024, revenues were $2,330,124, expenses were $3,310,169, the deficit was $980,045 and the management fee was $193,238, leading to a subsidy of $1,196,016, the document continued.

Therefore, the sports and entertainment venue requires a subsidy this year that is $42,156 less than last year, while this year’s cost recovery is 69 per cent versus 67 per cent in 2024.

These budget estimates are based on 175 events that attract 163,540 people who pay an average ticket price of $30.10.

During the 2025 budget discussions, city council unanimously approved the Events Centre’s operating budget and the subsidy of $1,153,860.

With the end of the coronavirus

Budget25: Events Centre to require smaller subsidy this year

pandemic, the Events Centre has been working to attract more events, concerts and activities, said city manager Maryse Carmichael. For example, the building hosted the World Para Hockey Championship in 2023, while it will host the World Men’s Curling Championship this year.

Shaunna Fritzler, the Events Centre’s general manager, agreed, pointing out that the availability of activities fluctuates annually. Therefore, the venue’s budget is predicated on these activities happening.

Furthermore, the building’s two pivotal revenue streams are food and beverage sales and the SaskTix.ca ticketing platform, which have grown during the last few years, she said.

“Multi-day events are key for the financial health of the Events Centre, and not only for that, but also for our community and just the economic impact it can bring,” Fritzler continued, noting OVG360 wants to build awareness throughout Saskatchewan about the Events Centre’s hosting capabilities.

However, it’s sometimes difficult for people to visualize how the curling centre — “a big concrete space” — could host a banquet, wedding or graduation, the GM said. So, OVG360 plans

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

to increase its marketing efforts to promote the building’s spaces and increase meeting and conference revenues.

Fritzler added that janitorial supply expenses usually increase during major events, such as the World Men’s Curling Championship, where nearly 8,000 people will attend over 10 days.

Council comments

Coun. Chris Warren liked that the Events Centre’s cost recovery would be higher this year and its subsidy would be lower, while he recalled the first few years when council implemented the subsidy model and provided around $800,000 annually in funding.

He noted that the amount council now gives is trending downward despite being higher than when the building opened.

Meanwhile, Warren wondered how much extra revenue the Events Centre generated during the Moose Jaw Warriors’ 2023-24 playoff run and how that additional funding would be used, as he thought any surplus could help decrease the subsidy.

“In the past, we haven’t had that luxury of excess revenues,” said finance director Brian Acker, noting that any extra revenue would go toward retained earnings for additional cash flow.

“My recommendation is to leave it with them.”

Coun. Heather Eby said the curling championship would generate “a lot of toilet paper,” with nearly 8,000 people using the venue over 10 days. She noted that those higher janitorial expenses are not something residents consider when the Events Centre hosts activities.

Meanwhile, she pointed out that the budget lacks revenue from a naming rights sponsor, so she hoped to hear positive news about that this year. Also, she wondered if the Events Centre had enough staff since she noticed the same people working in the morning and evening during two different events.

Fritzler replied that the venue has 21 full-time employees compared to 26 when the building first opened. She acknowledged that staff are experiencing burnout because of how busy the Events Centre has been over the past two years. Some employees have been forced to work 12- to 16-hour days during concerts and bonspiels, but only for a few days.

So, Fritzler added, OVG360 could hire more people once the number of meetings and banquets in the building increases.

New bus charter fees address in-town and out-of-town trips

Groups that charter a city bus for in-town or out-of-town events will pay more this year as city hall is simplifying the prices and accounting for increased costs.

During the 2025 budget discussions about transit and paratransit charter rates, city council voted unanimously to charge $150 per hour for intown services within a 25-kilometre radius, $200 per hour for in-town weekends, after hours between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., and holidays, and the same hourly rates for out-of-town charter

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

requests up to 100 kilometres outside of Moose Jaw.

The new rates took effect Feb. 1.

“This adjustment is necessary to ensure the continued provision of reliable and efficient transportation options for our community,” a budget report said. “By aligning the rates with current operational costs and market standards, we aim to maintain high-quality service and support the sustainability of our transit system.”

The revisions simplify the pricing structure and account for increases in labour, equip-

ment, fuel and support costs, the report continued. Most surrounding and similarly sized transit systems that offer charter services use standard hourly rates, while Moose Jaw has different rates for drive times and standby times based on the service types and day of the week.

The report noted that Regina charges $150 per hour for non-peak times and $240 per hour for late nights and statutory holidays, while Moose Jaw’s prices fluctuate for regular services, weekend and late-night services, and holiday services. Meanwhile, in 2024, tran-

sit operating revenues were $13,835 and $5,137.50 came from SGI for the New Year’s Eve Safe Ride Home service, the document said. This year, regular transit revenues are pegged at $25,000, and paratransit revenues are projected to be $2,000.

Bevan Harlton, director of operations, told council that bus operators will return to the yards if an event is within the 25-kilometre radius, while the city won’t charge the client that standby fee. However, drivers will remain at the event if it is beyond 25 kilometres and the city will bill for that time. “We had confusion for our clients and confusion for our staff managing the standby grey areas … ,” he continued. “If we can bring the staff member back and put them to work on our fleet or in our garage, then that time won’t be billed. But if the person is out there on-site, that is time is billed.”

Harlton added that 150 people used the New Year’s Eve bus service in December, while city hall had not reviewed these in-town/out-of-town charter rates since 2015.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, FEB. 10

With Moose Jaw’s stormwater infrastructure crumbling and city hall needing nearly $7 million over five years for repairs, city council has made “a hard decision” to create a new revenue-generating utility.

During a 2025 budget meeting, council voted unanimously to approve the creation of a stormwater utility to generate additional taxes to upgrade the minor and major stormwater systems. Further, council authorized city administration to bring forward a report with possible fees that properties would pay and a bylaw that establishes the stormwater utility.

City hall expects to implement the utility starting Tuesday, July 1.

The city’s stormwater system is valued at $210,730,000 and includes pieces such as 79.8 kilometres of pipes, 1,950 catch basins, 1,025 manholes, 65 outfalls and 77 culverts, a budget report said. Of note, Spring Creek alone requires

New utility to generate revenue for stormwater infrastructure repairs

$20 million worth of upgrades, excluding enhancements to Crescent Park’s Serpentine Creek, which it feeds.

Administration told council that repairs to aboveground and belowground stormwater infrastructure are required because they are in poor condition — many culverts are at risk of collapsing — and lack capacity. The goal is to enable pipes to handle major one-infive-year storms.

The hard, but right decision

The sewer system is mostly hidden underground, but when it fails, it negatively affects the community, while the stormwater system can also cause sewer backups through excess precipitation, Coun. Chris Warren said.

The stormwater system is “extremely important” and designed to mitigate flooding and drainage issues, while it’s important to protect the health of areas like Spring Creek and the

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Serpentine, he continued.

He noted that administration had presented several reports during the budget discussions that identified work that was going to cost millions of dollars.

Meanwhile, Warren recalled having discussions on council around 2015 about the cast iron replacement program and pointed out that it took one budget increase to start that snowball rolling, which turned into “a huge snowball.”

“Now we’ve got some dedicated funding sources many years later (for) that critical infrastructure, and now we’re seeing great news stories when it comes to our water breaks and the condition of our water pipes,” he said.

Warren added that creating a stormwater utility was “a hard decision, but the right decision.”

Baby steps

Coun. Jamey Logan was hesitant to add another tax onto property and landowners but thought approving this utility

was something council must do. He didn’t think it was appropriate to kick this infrastructure problem into the future, as past councils had done with the Fourth Avenue bridge and Crescent View Lift Station.

“Let’s tackle this now and take baby steps and see where we get,” he said.

Collapsing culverts

Coun. Patrick Boyle said that old pieces of two-by-four wood are literally holding up or holding together stormwater infrastructure pieces across the city — based on pictures council has seen — and is a problem residents should know.

Meanwhile, he, too, recalled the conversations around 2015 about cast iron replacement and pointed out that before that project began, there were about 150 water pipe breaks annually that required almost $3 million in repair costs. Now, though, those breaks are down to about 40 annually.

Boyle added that council can address this problem over

time if it starts now, while he didn’t want to wait until that infrastructure — usually out of sight, out of mind — collapsed and flooded people’s homes.

Transparency and accountability

Transparency and accountability were the buzzwords during the 2024 municipal election, so council must be transparent in telling residents that this critical infrastructure needs repairing, said Coun. Heather Eby. Moreover, council is being accountable by telling taxpayers it is creating a utility to pay for this maintenance.

“If we have to start small, it would be better than not starting at all,” she continued, noting that upstream repairs are required before the city can upgrade the Serpentine Creek.

Eby added that city hall should post pictures online showing the crumbling stormwater infrastructure when communicating with the public about this utility.

“There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.” -- Jane Austen --

By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express

Valentine’s Day and Flowers

The art of floral design is a very proud form of art that has been around for thousands of years. The diversity of style is amazing and will reflect a variety of social, religious and cultural trends. It is a part of social interactions, of interior design and is very important in relationships and for enhancing the overall quality of our lives. Working with flowers is fun but also brings a dimension to our life that is purely pleasing. Having a bad day – then make a bouquet! Feeling sad – bring some joy to your life by working with a bunch of flowers that smile for you!

Flowers are both beautiful and functional. We enjoy their colour, their scent and often forget that the real sig-

nificance of a flower from the plants’ perspective is to provide a means of reproduction. Flowers have played a role in many cultures throughout the years, symbolizing an identity, a goal or aspiration and even may have special religious significance.

We also mark special days with flowers – births, deaths, weddings and a host of other special occasions to give thanks, to say “I love you” or to just say I am thinking about you. In fact, individual types of flowers have been given special meanings which you may consider when you are giving flowers as a gift.

The floral industry itself is huge. It is a multibillion dollar industry that brightens our lives at every special holiday and event in our lives. It does make a great contribution to our economy and provides a host of employment opportunities. Valentine’s Day which is February 14th is one of the busiest days for florists, candy shops, lingerie shops and restaurants. It is “expected” to give and receive flowers, chocolate, to go for a romantic date and more!

During Victorian times, flowers were given special meanings and small bouquets would be given to sweethearts

to demonstrate love. The rose has been forever a symbol of love, beauty and peace and evidence of cultivation of roses dates back to over 5000 years ago. Over Valentines over 250 million roses will be harvested and bring in over two billion dollars in sales!

If you received cut flowers from your valentine, then here are a few tips to prolong their life and beauty. Begin with a clean vase. If your container was previously used, then wash it with hot, soapy water to remove any debris and destroy bacteria and fungi that might shorten the life of your cut flowers. Cut off the bottom half inch of your flowers to aid in water uptake. Ensure all foliage is removed beneath the water line. When your flowers begin to wilt, just give them a quick recut to ensure the stems are able to take water up to the

blooms and rewash and refill the vase with clean water as well as more of the floral preservative if you have some.

Cut flowers are not the only option as there are also many potted plants now available everywhere. It is impossible to walk into any grocer without being greeted by flowering potted plants of every colour and type. Remember that our homes are not really welcoming to plants that would normally live in areas with brighter light and higher humidity. Our plants in our houses are stressed during our long winter months so ensure you are giving them the care they deserve for brightening up our lives!

Hope your February is going well and your heart is full with all of what gives us joy during our winter!

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?

Eaton Centre hosts Valentine’s event to connect seniors and combat isolation

With Valentine’s Day soon approaching, older adults are invited to bring a friend and attend the Moose Jaw & District Senior Citizens Association’s (MJDSCA) open house to socialize, meet new people, and see what The Eaton Centre has to offer.

The free upcoming event, “Let No One Be Alone,” is open to everyone over the age of 50 and will take place at the Eaton Centre from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13.

Working in conjunction with Age Friendly Moose Jaw, the Centre is inviting members to help combat the effects of social isolation — a shared mandate for both organizations.

“That’s why we decided Valentine’s Day might be the best day to have our members bring in a friend who might not be a member and introduce them to the Centre, because the solution to social isolation is… friends, a place to go that’s affordable…, and exercise in whatever

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

form you like,” said Candace Thorne, vice president of the board of directors for the Timothy Eaton Gardens Centre.

Throughout the day everyone can take a free tour, sample a few regular activities, and enjoy a free slice of cake and coffee.

“We’re going to be really well staffed that day,” Thorne said, noting that it will be “all hands on deck.”

Any prospective members can stop by throughout the year and freely try any activities up to three times “to find a niche that’s right for you” before purchasing a membership. Activities range from card games and an art room to pickleball matches and an exclusive fitness centre in the basement. Guests will have the exclusive chance to try these out for free — and without limit — on Feb. 13.

Memberships cost $50 per year, and an enhanced membership rate of $75 includes free access to the fitness centre with activities discounted at $2 per play.

Membership is open to adults over 50 and the oldest active member just celebrated her 100th birthday.

A common misconception is that the building is an exclusive senior living home, but the main floor and basement host the MJDSCA and Age Friendly Moose Jaw as tenants.

The push to combat social isolation in seniors, Thorne clarified, was initially suggested by Age Friendly who relocated to the building in 2024.

“What’s happening is, seniors are going to their doctors and they’re saying (that they) generally feel unwell…,” she explained. “(Doctors) are finding that those (patients) aren’t medically unwell, but they’re lonely. And, because social isolation is as bad for your health as smoking, they’re now doing something called ‘social prescribing.’

“In other words, what they’re prescribing is a more social environment for these seniors.”

Thorne addressed this mission by inviting Moose Jaw’s older adults to “Come to Eaton’s and see what we have to offer” this Valentine’s Day. As an added bonus, she said the first 26 guests through the door will receive a surprise Valentine’s gift.

The Eaton Centre is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed on weekends and statutory holidays.

The onsite café is open to the public Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with lunch running from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you miss the café’s opening hours, coffee and snacks are available until 4 p.m. on weekdays. On Feb. 13, the special will include an ever-popular tater tot casserole.

For more information call 306-6944223 or visit MooseJawSeniors.ca.

The Eaton Centre is located at 510 Main Street North.

Valentine’s Day, a celebration of love and affection, has evolved over centuries into a global phenomenon marked by the exchange of gifts, with chocolate reigning supreme as the quintessential symbol of love and sweetness.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

The tradition of Valentine’s Day dates back to ancient Roman times with the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February. This pagan festival, which included rituals for fertility and matchmaking, was later Christianized and associated with St. Valentine, a martyr of the early Christian church. The exact origins and identity of St. Valentine remain shrouded in mystery, with several legends attributing different heroic acts of love to him.

As centuries passed, the day gradually transformed into a celebration of romantic love. By the 14th and 15th centuries, it became common in Europe to express love and affection through poems, songs, and letters. This era also witnessed the emergence of the concept of courtly love, where chivalrous acts and romantic gestures were idealized.

The Introduction of Chocolate to Europe

Chocolate, as we know it, began its journey in the New World, primarily

among the Aztecs and Mayans who consumed it as a bitter, frothy drink mixed with spices. The Spanish conquistadors brought chocolate back to Europe in the 16th century. Initially, it was a luxury item enjoyed by the elite in the form of a drink, believed to have aphrodisiac properties and medicinal benefits.

Over time, chocolate became more accessible, and by the 19th century, it was widely consumed by people of different social strata. The Industrial Revolution played a pivotal role in this transformation, as technological advancements made it possible to produce chocolate in solid form, which was easier to package and distribute. Chocolate and Valentine’s Day

The association of chocolate with Valentine’s Day can be traced back to the Victorian era. During this period, there was a resurgence of interest in Valentine’s Day in England, with elaborate cards and gifts exchanged among lovers and friends. It was also

a time when the culture of gift-giving and expressing love through material objects was gaining popularity.

Enter Richard Cadbury, a member of the famous Cadbury chocolate manufacturing family in England. In the mid-19th century, Cadbury recognized the potential of combining the romantic appeal of Valentine’s Day with the growing popularity of chocolate. He began producing beautifully decorated boxes of chocolates, specifically designed for Valentine’s Day. These boxes, adorned with cupids and roses, were not just containers for chocolate but were also treasured as keepsakes. This innovation marked a significant turning point in the commercialization of Valentine’s Day and established chocolate as a popular gift for the occasion. The trend quickly caught on, and other chocolate manufacturers around the world followed suit, creating their own Valentine’s Day-themed chocolate products.

The Universal Appeal of Chocolate

a sensory appeal that is hard to resist. The taste, texture, and aroma of chocolate can evoke feelings of pleasure and comfort, making it a perfect expression of love and affection. Secondly, chocolate is versatile. It can be molded into various shapes and combined with a range of flavors, allowing for endless creativity and personalization. From heart-shaped boxes to artisanal truffles, there’s a chocolate gift to suit every taste and budget.

Furthermore, chocolate has a symbolic meaning. Along with red roses, it’s often associated with love, passion, and indulgence, which aligns perfectly with the sentiments of Valentine’s Day. Gifting chocolate is seen as a gesture of sharing something delightful and intimate, enhancing its appeal as a romantic gift.

We are 100% Locally owned & operated, offering over 25 years of trusted experience.

The reasons behind the enduring appeal of chocolate as a Valentine’s Day gift are manifold. Firstly, chocolate has

https://www.eternityrose.ca/blog/TheHistory-of-How-Chocolate-Became-aValentines-Day-Gift?srsltid=AfmBOorwycNpPvbsMffejCznNgEUeqDi_ MNX7B0Y8Depny6A4Ei0aWj

The Most Romantic Ideas for Celebrating Valentine’s Day at Home

Whether it’s a candlelit dinner, curated music, or a fun game night, spending Valentine’s Day at home can be a luxury—even if kids are home. Try these romantic ideas to make your at-home date extraordinary and special.

• Make Plans for the Kids – Feed the kids early and put them to be so you can enjoy a romantic dinner alone together.

• Create Ambience – Flowers, romantic music, scented candle, dim lights… make the most of a nice evening together.

• Prepare a special meal – Take into consideration your significant other’s favourite choice for food

• Mix Up Specialty Cocktails – Whether it is a special cocktail or a non-alcoholic option, there are a number of drinks that can refresh the palate during the evening

• Play Some Music and Dance – There’s nothing quite as special as listening to your favourite love songs and dancing

• Watch Romantic Movies by the Fire – Everyone has a movie that gives you that “warm and fuzzy’ feeling

• Get Nostalgic – Reminiscing about the past can create a wonderful bond. Get out your photo albums and walk back in time to your wedding day or special moments in your lives

• Share a Thoughtful Gift – Cost is not the issue, whether handmade or purchased as long as it has sentimental value

Source: https://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/valentines-day/ valentines-day-celebration-at-home

Valentine’s Day Is Not Only For Lovers

Anyone and everyone can celebrate Valentine’s Day. But, one should not forget that it is not only for lovers, it is a day when you should share your love with your loved ones. If you are not in love, but love your family, friends, and cousins, this is your day to celebrate it differently and make it special for you and for everyone around you.

Here are some tips to make Valentine’s Day memorable:

Appreciate those who care for you: It is a good day to appreciate the love and care of all those for whom you matter a lot. Be thankful to all those who are always with you and who you care for you a lot. Send a special gift to your parents: It is a nice thing to do on Valentine’s day. Send a nice card to your parents telling them that how much you love them and how important they are in your life?

Make yourself happy and pamper yourself: Don’t feel sad or lonely on Valentine’s day. Do something nice for yourself. Do all such things which make you happy. Pamper yourself, treat yourself, buy a gift for yourself, order your favorite food. Hey, it’s your day, love yourself and enjoy the day! Go for an outing with your friends: Every friend is really important and this is the perfect day to show your love to them. Plan an outing or get-

together on that day. Ask all your friends to join you and have fun with them. Friends are the best gift of God. Value them, tell them how happy you are in their company. Do something nice for someone: If you believe a small gesture can bring a smile to someone’s face, do something nice for someone. It could be as small as offering a seat to someone in need. Talk to someone with whom you have not talked to for awhile: Make a call to your friend or relative. Call him/her and enjoy a nice chit-chat session and recall some of the good memories.

Thank God for everything: Don’t feel sad over anything, you should feel happy that God has gifted you a very beautiful life, loving parents, a caring family and some really good friends and strength to achieve your dream.

https://lovevivah.com/matrimony/blog/ relationships/valentines-day-is-not-onlyfor-lovers-celebrate-is-differently/

Valentine’s Pickup Lines That are Sweeter Than Chocolate

By Sarah Vincent

While pick-up lines may not work with a stranger, they can be cute to remind your loved ones how crazy you are about them. These are PG so you can share them as a silly Valentine’s Day message for friends and loved ones. Again, we don’t recommend using these on strangers — nobody wants to be cornered somewhere — but these pickup lines can get you a fond eye roll or even a blush from your loved one this V-Day.

❤ Are you wifi? Because I’m feeling a connection!

❤ Are you a charger? Because I’m dying without you.

❤ I’m no photographer, but I can picture us together.

❤ Do you have a name, or can I call you mine?

❤ Your hand looks heavy, can I hold it for you?

❤ Quick question: Are you sunburned, or are you just always this hot?

❤ Are you a campfire? ’Cause you’re hot, and I want s’more.

❤ Are you a loan? Because you definitely have my interest.

❤ Is your name Google? Because you’ve got everything I’m searching for this V-Day.

❤ I don’t have a library card, but do you mind if I check you out?

❤ You should sign up for a marathon, ’cause you’ve been running

through my mind all day.

❤ Are you my wisdom teeth? Because I have a feeling that I should take you out as soon as possible.

❤ You know what you would really look beautiful in this Valentine’s Day? My arms.

❤ If I could rearrange the alphabet, I would put U and I together.

❤ Didn’t we take a class together? I could’ve sworn we had chemistry.

❤ Did you get your license suspended for driving all these guys crazy?

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/ holidays/valentines-day-ideas/a63361913/ valentines-day-pickup-lines/?utm_ source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_ campaign=mgu_ga_ghk_md_pmx_hybd_ mix_ca_20310565167&gad_source=1& gclid=Cj0KCQiAkoe9BhDYARIsAH85cD PhDXlDJCF9Q6334S-CEBPQJawlX9Q D__7fL7GhXGTZ0jSvCUQjUwoaAgszEA Lw_wcB

Gina Jewelry International

New MJMAG exhibit focuses on appreciating nature’s beauty

The South Saskatchewan River and its ecosystems provided some inspiration for Gabriela García-Luna’s latest art exhibition, which focuses on the beauty of nature and appreciation of the land where people live.

“Land-Water-Passages” is the latest exhibit in the Norma Lang Gallery at the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMAG), which runs from Friday, Feb. 7 to Sunday, April 27.

García-Luna uses a blend of digital collages, drawings, mark makings and sculptures to layer together photographic images of plants from places like Mexico and Saskatchewan. The works highlight the intangible, impermanent and fragile parts of the human experience — the places where existence becomes meaningful.

She has also created long, hanging tapestries depicting rivers and other bodies of water.

“I’m super excited for this show,” García-Luna said, noting her last exhibition here was in 2014.

Taking inspiration from nature was less a decision and more of a response to the surrounding environment for GarcíaLuna, who is from Mexico but has lived in India, Moose Jaw — for 10 years — and now in Saskatoon.

“Nature is a place where I find myself in a very good place in contempla-

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Artist Gabriela García-Luna stands near one of her paintings, which is part of the “Land-Water-Passages” exhibit in the Norma Lang Gallery at the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

tion of nature and in the company of nature (and) in the reflection of nature,” García-Luna said.

“… nature can teach us about life cycles, about beauty, about the very little things that seem unimportant, but then you are mesmerized by them (and) their perfection or their architecture or their meaning,” she continued.

“And that’s when I respond to nature. I find it’s like a reflection of intelligence beyond my own understanding.”

García-Luna’s experiences have embedded themselves in her artwork since some pieces are semi-abstract, while others are more explicit — rocks,

trees, branches and flowers— in what they show. She noted that she is not strictly a photographer but is like a painter or musician who brings together different elements to create a whole.

Thus, viewers will see compositions of images that contain natural and botanical elements, with flora from Mexico and Saskatchewan. One artwork looks like a tiger lily from this province, although the artist said that was unintentional and viewers will see whatever comes to their minds.

“It’s more interesting to me how the viewer can relate to the work, even though it might be something that is coming from a different place,” said García-Luna. “I think there’s a commonality in the response we have in nature in a way.”

When viewers look at her work, García-Luna hopes they understand that they must appreciate the land where they live since it’s not something we own but a place from where we come. She noted that humans are similar to plants since the latter are rooted in the ground but don’t own it.

“So we are privileged to live off the land, but (we must) also … pay attention to it (and) to have a relationship with it,” she continued. “So, these are pieces that are not specifically prescribed. I don’t want to prescribe what people think or

feel in the work.”

García-Luna highlighted how the South Saskatchewan River inspired several artworks since it runs through Saskatoon and is important to the community’s life. People can access the river — she lives several blocks away from it — throughout the Meewasin Valley, while few private properties block that access.

Furthermore, the river starts in the Rockies, crosses Saskatchewan, and exists in the Hudson Bay waterbody. Something García-Luna also discovered is the Saskatchewan River is the largest inland delta in North America, stretching from Mexico to the North Pole, making it “a hidden treasure.”

García-Luna travelled the river delta, researching and photographing as she went while she learned that those ecosystems are fragile but intelligent in how they adapt and shift to survive. Those characteristics informed the work she created.

“Every aspect of the (creativity) process is very engaging and interesting because it’s a whole journey of discovering for me,” she added. “I don’t come ever with the idea (that) I’m going to make this thing that is going to look this way. Never, I cannot do it … like that.”

The artist reception and talk are on Friday, April 4, at 7 p.m.

Letters to the EDITOR for MJ Express

RE: SPECIAL VALENTINE’S DAY EVENT: “BRING A BUDDY TO LUNCH” AT T. EATONS ON FEB. 13

Exciting news! The Eaton’s Seniors’ Activity Centre is coordinating with Age Friendly Moose Jaw to present a special event for Valentine’s Day. In keeping with the Eaton Centre’s mission to combat social isolation

RE: OUR REAL HERITAGE

Mayor Murdock has mentioned the value of tourism, but not much detail was given. There is, however, a longoverdue need to chronicle the overall story of one of the most significant historic area sites in Saskatchewan.

The effort may be challenging, but the results will be very valuable immediately and for years to come.

The historic chronicle must proceed forth because project objectives and designs come first, and the effect on the sites comes last, “to be done with as little effect as possible.” The problem is that the “little effect” from each project adds up to the point where destruction becomes the norm and irreplaceable historic sites are lost forever.

Guidelines for Submitting Letters to the Editor:

Due to space allotment in Moose Jaw Express for free letters to the editor, we find it necessary to establish some guidelines in submissions that will be in effect.

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

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

• A full name and contact information will need to be included with each submission for verification.

and Age Friendly’s policy to “Let No One Be Alone”, we are hosting a “Bring A Buddy To Lunch” event for seniors aged 50 and over on Thursday, February 13, at the Timothy Eaton Cafe located in the Timothy Eaton Gardens building at 510 Main Street here in Moose Jaw. Buy one meal for yourself and get one free for

With the 9th Ave S.W. project, we are apparently witnessing the destruction of one “historic site” to cover up another “historic site.” You cannot destroy and preserve at the same time.

RE: MJ U13 A WARRIORS BLACK, MOOSE JAW SK.

Dear Business Owner of the friendly City of Moose Jaw, and Potential U13A Warriors Supporter!

This 9th Ave S.W. repair was designed and presented at an “open house” one-on-one format rather than having “town hall” meetings before designing the repairs so that citizens can come together to discuss their thoughts and contribute ideas. The process must ensure that all citizens can be informed about the overall reasons for the 9th Ave S.W. repairs and the present to long-term consequences.

Were other repair options considered? Why was the “curve” there in the first place?

Valleyview Dr. slumping is much more complex to stabilize, but it was stabilized without ripping the area apart. The engineer for that project is employed by the city. Was he contacted? What are shear keys?

The archaeologist was excited by the findings at the 9th Ave S.W. repair site. Did they check the

The Moose Jaw Warriors U13A Black team is comprised of aspiring “elite” players born in 2012 and 2013 from all over Canada, but mostly from the Moose Jaw area. At this time, we would like to ask for your generosity and support of this very worthwhile program. Your

• Only the name will be included in publication with the letter as the contributor.

• We Reserve The Right to Edit.

Send your letters to the editor to: joan@moosejawexpress.com

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

your Buddy! The lunch hours at the Cafe are 11:30 to 1:00. While you are visiting our facility, take a tour and discover all the exciting activities we offer! You are welcome to join any of the activities ongoing that day at no charge. Speak to one of our volunteers, staff or board members to find out how to take out a mem-

Wakamow Master Plan, Kit Krozier’s months of findings, the public library, the conservation study, Connor Park, and many other sources of information?

We must understand that First Nations Peoples found a place to live. Their dwellings were the homes of the times, and historic artifacts are part of those homes.

The location of buried First Nations children raises questions about burial sites. The 9th Ave S.W. project’s comments state that no gravesites, despite allegations, have been found. Perhaps these allegations are correct because other roadbuilding may have destroyed gravesites?

Apparently, a First Nations-approved person is not in place as an empowered overseer to guide and keep the historical facts up front during the 9th Ave S.W. repairs.

There are more projects being floated, slopes to be slumped, and

kind donation or sponsorship will be used to offset the expenditures for our players concerning tournaments, tier fees, end of season wind-downs, and specialized training, helping our children develop as players and good human beings.

Your donation or sponsorship is not only a charitable contribution, but also an advertising opportunity. We support everyone who supports us by advertising your business on all our social media accounts. Without

bership and uncover a new world of friendship, fun and opportunity! Coffee and cake are free all day. The first 26 people in the door will receive a Valentine’s treat! It’s cold out there! Come to Eaton’s and share the warmth of our community.

Candace Thorne

The Eaton Centre

historical evidence to be erased—it must be stopped!

To compile the story of this area, the following list may assist: Mesozoic to Paleocene, Inland Sea, Wyoming Volcanic Action, Bear Paw Shale, Plesiosaurs, Ammonites, Cretaceans, Glaciations, Moraine, Last Glaciation Runoff and Results, Human Habitation, Ancient Trails, Peace and Trade, Little Big Horn and witness Wanbil Sunpagewin, Wood Mountain – Wakamow Lakota, Snowdy Spring and Nearby Occupation, Tee Pee Rings, Buffalo Jump, Wakamow Master Plan, Kit Krozier, Leith Knight, Don Mitchell re. Gravesites, detrimental activity, Susan Richard Study, 538.06-meter elevation, records in books and articles. The historic facts of this area are beyond expectation; it is here, and it must be completed for all to see.

Percy Hill

the support of people like you, we would not be able to reach our goals. Thank you for your consideration to support our team. We look forward to hearing from you.

Moose Jaw U13 A Warriors Black

Head Coach Rob Wagner 306-6304407

Lead Parent Fundraising Rep Katerina Daniele Porter 613-849-7688

Moose Jaw Warriors turn in spirited effort but fall short against Edmonton Oil Kings

Warriors tie game three times, but three Edmonton goals in final seven minutes leads to 6-3 win for Oil Kings

The Moose Jaw Warriors have had more than their share of games this season where they showed plenty of heart but didn’t end up with the final result they wanted, and Saturday night in Edmonton offered another case.

After tying the game three times by the midway point of the third period, the Warriors would give up three goals in the final seven minutes and go on to a 6-3 defeat in Western Hockey League action.

The Warriors fall to 11-35-4-2 with their fifth-straight loss and remain in 11th in the Eastern Conference, the Oil Kings improved to 27-19-2-2 and sit in sixth place, two points back of Saskatoon.

It didn’t take any time at all for Edmonton to opening scoring on Saturday, as Ethan MacKenzie got the Oil Kings on the board only 1:46 into the contest, blasting home a one-timer from the top of the face-off circle.

The Oil Kings would take that 1-0 lead out of the period, but Krzysztof Macias would get that one back for Moose Jaw with 7:31 to play in the sec-

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw Warriors goaltender Josh Banini keeps an eye on the puck in the Warriors zone during Saturday’s contest in Edmonton. Edmonton Oil Kings

ond. The Warriors overager carried the puck up his wing on a three-on-two and would get off a backhand in close that would elude Edmonton goaltender Alex Worthington.

Cole Miller restored Edmonton’s lead only 11 seconds later when he tipped in Marshall Finnie’s shot from the point.

The Warriors’ power play would

strike to tie the game before the period was out, as Pavel McKenzie took a cross-zone pass from Ethan Hughes and hammered a one-timer home with 8:01 to play in the period.

After Miroslav Holinka gave Edmonton a 3-2 lead 1:15 into the third, Ethan Semeniuk tied the game for the third time, taking a feed from the point from McKenzie into the slot before spinning and firing a shot home at the 11:22 mark.

That would be the last good news for Moose Jaw, though, as Rylen Roersma made it a 4-3 game 2:07 later, Adam Jecho added an insurance marker with 4:01 to play and Jecho would score again into the empty net with 33 seconds remaining.

Warriors goaltender Josh Banini finished with 37 saves in the loss, Worthington had 15 saves to secure the victory.

The Warriors will now have the week off before hosting the Brandon Wheat Kings on Friday night. Game time is 7 p.m. at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

Early special teams the difference as Red Deer Rebels defeat Moose Jaw Warriors

Rebels build 3-0 lead in first period with pair of power play goals, go on to 4-2 victory in Red Deer

The Moose Jaw Warriors would go scoreless on four opportunities in the opening frame of last week’s game against the Red Deer Rebels, while the Rebels built a three-goal lead, with Red Deer going on to a 4-2 victory in Western Hockey League action.

Moose Jaw falls to 11-34-4-2 with their fourth-straight loss and remain in 11th place in the Eastern Conference, Red Deer improved to 19-25-4-1 and are in ninth place, eight points back of Swift Current for the final playoff spot.

The Warriors picked up the first power play of the game six minutes into the first period, but it would be the Rebels who hit the scoresheet first.

Samuel Drancak forced a turnover in the Red Deer zone and broke down his wing on a two-on-one before putting a shot from the right faceoff circle top shelf glove side. The goal came 6:44 into the contest.

Warriors goaltender Matthew Huchison turned in a solid showing in goal on Friday night, but it wouldn’t be enough to find the win column in Red Deer. Nick Pettigrew

The Rebels then extended their lead to 2-0 just over six minutes later, with Jack Bousquet flipping a pass into the Moose Jaw zone that eluded all the Warriors defenders but found Gleb Semenov in front of the net. His quick shot would hit home, and Red Deer had their twogoal edge.

Red Deer ran into more penalty trouble as the period progressed, and the Warriors would end up with a twoman advantage for 54 seconds late in the frame.

The Warriors appeared to have scored as the first penalty expired when Ethan Semeniuk batted home the rebound off his own shot in close, but it

Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors back in win column after victory in Swift Current

Warriors score goal in each period, go on to 3-1 win over Legionnaires on Friday night Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors found themselves in a low-scoring battle on Friday night in Swift Current, but were still able to return to the win column.

The Warriors scored a goal in each period and would go on to a 3-1 victory over the Legionnaires in Sask Male AAA Hockey League action.

Moose Jaw improved to 28-7-3 with the win and sit three points back of the Regina Pat Canadians for first place, while Swift Current fell to 27-11-0 and

are five points back of the Warriors in third.

Ryan Gibbs continued his stellar campaign with the game’s opening goal 3:19 into the proceedings. The marker was the Tri-City Americans prospect’s 33rd of the season, with his 66 points trailing only Regina’s Maddox Schultz in the league scoring race.

Warriors captain Brennan Brown made it 2-0 with a shorthanded goal 1:50 into the third, but Swift Current would get that back on the same power play

when Wesley Olson scored 1:20 later.

Moose Jaw maintained the one-goal lead until the final minutes of the third period, when Keaton Lesperance would give his squad some breathing room with 5:25 to play in the contest.

Wade Franks picked up two assists for the Warriors.

Luke McKechnie turned aside 20 shots for his league-leading 19th win of the season, with Berney Weston making 32 saves for Swift Current.

The WINMAR Warriors are back

was ruled he’d knocked the puck in with a high stick.

The Rebels received their second power play of the period with 36 seconds to play, and they’d strike again, with Kalan Lind tucking home his own rebound in front with 12 seconds remaining in the first.

Ethan Hughes got the Warriors on the board 2:22 into the second, picking up a turnover along the boards and breaking into the slot before using a nifty little toe-drag to put a shot low glove side.

Moose Jaw’s power play went back to work at the 10:55 mark of the period, and this time they’d get things done. Pavel McKenzie found Krzysztof Macias in the slot with a pass from the boards, and Macias would have plenty of time to put a shot top shelf and make it a one-goal game with 8:36 remaining.

Nothing would change in the third period until the final second of the game, when Ollie Josephson scored an empty netter to finish off the two-goal win.

Matthew Hutchison finished with 36 saves in the loss, while Peyton Shore turned aside 18 shots.

WINMAR Warriors logo

in action with a marquee match-up on Tuesday night, as they host Schultz and the Pat Canadians at the Moose Jaw Events Centre. Puck drop is 7 p.m.

Moose Jaw and District Sports Hall of Fame calls for nominations, announces new category

New Legacy category created for nominees from 50 years prior to nomination year

The Moose Jaw and District Sports Hall of Fame has put out their annual call for nominations while announcing a pair of changes -- including a brand new nomination category.

Beginning this year, the Hall of Fame will be accepting nominations in the Legacy category, which will include athletes, builders and teams who were active more than 50 years prior to the current nomination year. For 2025, that will include nominees who were last active prior to 1975.

While there have been athletes and teams inducted in previous years from older eras, the Legacy category will establish a division all their own, with a maximum of two nominees a year.

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Hall of Fame also announced a change to the eligibility criteria. In past years, an athlete must have been retired from competing beyond the provincial level for the last three years, with the switch now adding an age cut-off as well. Now, once an athlete reaches their 50th birthday, they may be eligible for nomination without any waiting period even if they are still active as a competitor.

The 2025 induction class will be the 11th for the MJDSHF, and will also include nominations in the athlete, team and builder categories.

Nominated athletes can be anyone living or deceased from Moose Jaw and area who has ‘demonstrated character,

sportsmanship and integrity as well as outstanding ability in his/her particular activity, having brought honour to themselves and Moose Jaw and District.’

Nominated builders can be anyone ‘whose service other than that of an athlete has made an exceptional contribution to a particular sport or sports’, which includes coaches, officials, administrators, volunteers, media and sports medicine.

Nominated teams can be two or more people who have won a provincial, regional, national, Olympic or World Championship, with special consideration given to local teams who have reached the maximum level of excellence beyond the District. The team must

have been based in the Moose Jaw area at the time of their accomplishments.

Nomination forms can be found at www.mjdshf.com, by emailing info@ mjdsf or by calling (306) 692-2211.

The nomination deadline is Apr. 30, 2025.

Those selected will be introduced at a special event this summer, with the official induction taking place in the fall.

For a look at all the previous nominees, be sure to check out the Moose Jaw and District Sports Hall of Fame on the second floor mezzanine in the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

For more information and the latest news, keep an eye on www.mjdshf.com/

Sports Hall of Fame file

Cyclones Defeat Feisty South Hill

Photos and story by Robert Thomas

The meet up last Tuesday, Feb. 4, between the Central Cyclones and South Hill Royal Eagles is a tale of two games.

The first quarter saw South Hill take a surprising 24 - 20 after 10 minutes.

South Hill would seemingly pound in field goal after field goal led by five three pointers by Wyatt Craik in the first quarter.

But the short benched Royal Falcons - who only dressed eight players due to illness - ran out of gas midway through the second quarter as the full roster Cyclones took over lead and never looked back.

The First Quarter saw the Central Cyclones off to a slow start with the team failing to put their hands up allowing South Hill to score six field goals.

The score at the end of the quarter was South Hill 24 and Central 20.

The Second Quarter leaned in the Cyclones favour after a pep talk between quarters and the short benched Royal Falcons noticeably at the 6:30 mark start to run out of steam.

The Cyclones would respond with a 14 point second half by Garrit Gulutzan who would not only battle and break for the basket but also show his prowess from three point land.

The score at the half was Central 55 and South Hill 35.

The Third Quarter saw the Cyclones continue to control the game.

There were some bright moments for the Royal Falcons as their defence kept the Cyclones from increasing their lead even more.

The Fourth Quarter saw Central’s S Suliman score 12 points.

Despite the loss there were a lot of smiles on the South Hill bench including Royal Falcons head coach Kalen Sene-

cially Wyatt Craig’s seemingly uncanny ability to make three pointers.

Asked how it felt to turn in a strong game against the reigning provincial 4A champions - Central Cyclones - Senecal said he was happy.

For Central Cyclones head coach Barry Seaborn the team had a slow start and shooting allowed the Royal Falcons to lead for the opening ten minutes.

Shooting was key for South Hill Seaborn said.

The longer bench for Central allowed the team to get more players onto the court.

Overall the Cyclones put in a good effort, he said.

The Cyclones’ win combined with the Peacock Toilers loss to Swift Current earlier in the evening has created a log jam for first place in Moose Jaw senior boys league play.

Swift Current, Central and Peacock are now all tied for first place with 5 - 1 records.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2025/2/5/qsz5s4vlaxinv2fmwe -

Vandals continue to strike VVC and pilfer pounds of profitable copper

Thieves and trespassers continue to vandalize the former Valley View Centre, a complex that has been unused for more than five years and shows few signs of new life.

The MooseJawToday.com previously reported on the regular vandalism of the 80-hectare (200-acre) venue in June 2024 and August 2023, although not much has changed since then. This activity prompted the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) to create an online post recently reminding residents to stay away from the venue.

“We were experiencing a number of calls for trespassing and theft in that (venue), so we just wanted to remind the community that it is private property, and if they are found trespassing and dismembering anything from that building, they could be charged accordingly,” Jay-D Haughton, the MJPS’s communications manager, told the Express.

Valley View Centre shuttered in September 2019, and in September 2020, Richmond, British Columbiabased Carpere Canada acquired the site from the provincial government.

“We try to patrol as much as we can, but obviously, when our officers are having a busy night, it’s hard to sometimes make time to go up there,” the communications manager continued.

The MJPS received several calls in January about the illegal activity, while there was “an uptick” in calls in December, Haughton said. Police also learned that individuals continue to steal items from buildings, including copper wire, copper pipe and “anything they could get their hands on.”

According to the website Scrap Metal Prices in Canada, copper is going for $5.85 per pound.

The police service has spoken with Carpere and the company said it planned to board up several of the buildings’ entrances to prevent access since vandals had smashed many to get inside, said Haughton.

One important reason people should not enter the buildings is that the structures contain asbestos from the 1950s

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

and can contribute to negative long-term health effects, he added. Also, the police don’t want people to hurt themselves.

When asked about the situation, Terry Tian, regional manager for Carpere, pointed back to comments he made during an interview in August 2023 but did not say anything new, nor did he say if the company was proceeding with its redevelopment plan.

Security upgrades

The B.C.-based company has taken some steps to address site security.

It installed a locked gate at the Seventh Avenue Southwest entrance — adjacent to the Old Wild Animal Park — in

2023, but because the area is secluded, vandals broke it off its hinges.

Emails — acquired through a freedom of information (FOI) request — show a city hall official contacted Tian on Jan. 8, 2024, about the gate. He thanked her for the photo since it would help him create a repair plan.

Another city hall official emailed on June 13, 2024, saying he was aware that Valley View continued to face vandalism based on a news story. The official asked whether the city should be aware of anything, but Tian did not respond since he was in China.

City manager Maryse Carmichael

emailed on July 3, 2024, and asked whether Tian had received an order to comply from the city’s legal counsel to address the safety issues. He replied that he would meet with a building official to do that.

On July 11, 2024, the building official summarized the meeting and said Carpere should have secure perimeter fencing, maintain locked gates to prevent vehicle access and disconnect the power. Further, Valley View could be eligible for the MJPS’s vacant property program, but Tian would have to enrol.

“If these efforts do not mitigate the unwanted entry into buildings, you must be prepared to secure them by boarding compromised doors and windows,” the official added.

Tian asked the building official on July 17, 2024, when the city would install concrete roadblocks at the Seventh Avenue Southwest entrance, with the official replying that the municipality “will not move forward” with those barriers.

A day later, Tian said he would install concrete barriers and install a fence to prevent walk-ins.

Interestingly, on April 25, 2024, Tian emailed former mayor Clive Tolley about the vandalism and security issues. He asked how the city planned to deal with those issues and wanted a reduction in property taxes since he wasn’t using the buildings, nor where they connected to water or sewer.

Tolley replied on May 7, 2024, saying he could not meet Tian’s demands since those decisions were up to city council. Further, he said he believed that Carpere failed to understand the problems it would encounter in securing and maintaining the property or the associated costs when it purchased the land from the province.

“Certainly, I have empathy and want to do all I can to help make this development become a reality, but, ultimately, Carpere is responsible for all the lands and buildings formerly known as Valley View Centre, and all that entails,” Tolley added.

A photo of the first type of gate that Carpere Canada installed in 2022 at the Seventh Avenue Southwest entrance, but that vandals continued to damage and destroy. Photo courtesy City of Moose Jaw

In 2024, property owner Carpere Canada installed concrete barriers and another fence further up the road to prevent vehicle access. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Holy Trinity places first as ‘Name That Tune’ surpasses youth fundraising goal

This year’s “Name That Tune” fundraiser, hosted by The Friendly City Optimist Club, wrapped up with Cherie and Stu Esson claiming victory on behalf of the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division (HTCSD) — and earning all the bragging rights that came with it.

The third annual fundraiser was held at the Moose Jaw Public Library’s theatre and featured six communitybased teams of two who competed to identify songs played live on the piano by Optimist Club member Greg Gower on Jan. 21.

“It was a fun evening and everybody left feeling quite happy about the entertainment as well as doing (this) for a good cause like Hunger in Moose Jaw,” said Gayle Jones, an Optimist Club member and event organizer.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The fundraiser focused on addressing food insecurity among Moose Jaw’s younger residents. All proceeds from the event will support both Hunger in Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank.

“Our goal was (to raise) $2,000, but we’ve earned more than that,” Jones said. “That is great. Thanks to… all the support from the community and the different local businesses that participated.”

Hunger in Moose Jaw was selected as the primary recipient as it closely matched the mission of the Optimist Club.

“Our goal is to support youth in our community, and we thought this was an extremely good way to (achieve this),” she said. The food bank, she added, was

included because of its complementary work in the community. “Of course, they do such a good job, especially with the rising cost of food for families. It’s just another way to support children.”

Six teams sought to name a series of tunes while Optimist Club member Glenn Hagel kept the audience engaged with music trivia and commentary throughout. These teams included the HTCSD, Prairie South School Division, Hunger in Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture, Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow,

and the Hillcrest Dental Clinic.

Jones said the competition was close. “As usual, any team could have won. It was competitive,” she noted. The runners-up included Fiorina Hauck and Donna Winterton, representing the Hillcrest Dental Clinic.

Despite no planned changes this year, the audience added a little touch of their own.

“This year we had a little bit of audience participation, so we added that to the lineup,” she recalled. “Greg Gower played some songs, and audience members would stand up and guess the tunes. That sort of added a little bit more fun to the evening and let the audience participate a bit.”

The Optimist Club is now preparing to host several summer barbecue events and its next big project will be the returning Greeting Card Lane along Langdon Crescent later in the fall.

“(Name That Tune) was a great success, so we’ll probably do it again (next year),” Jones added.

“(I want to say) thanks to the Moose Jaw Express and the Moose Jaw Co-op as our sponsors, all the teams that par-

ticipated, (and all) the people that came (out to the event). It was a team success…,” she concluded.

The Friendly City Optimist Club focuses on “Bringing out the best in kids” and is a youth-centred organization involved in several community service projects throughout the year. For more information visit MooseJawOptimistClub.Wordpress.com or ‘Friendly City Optimist Club of Moose Jaw’ on Facebook.

To learn more about Hunger in Moose Jaw call 306-692-1916 or visit HungerInMooseJaw.org or ‘Hunger in Moose Jaw’ on Facebook.

Cherie Esson (centre) and Stu Esson (right) accept first place during the “Name That Tune” fundraiser at the public library on Jan. 21. Photo by: Holy Trinity Catholic School Division

Left to right: Gayle Jones (left) representing the Friendly City Optimist Club and first place winners Cherie Esson and Stu Esson (right). Photo by: Submitted photo

Left to right: Second place winner Donna Winterton (left), Fiorina Hauck representing Hillcrest Dental, Gayle Jones representing the Friendly City Optimist Club, first place winners Cherie Esson and Stu Esson representing the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division’s school board (right).

Photo by: Submitted photo

Photo by: The Friendly City Optimist Club

Photo by: The Friendly City Optimist Club

Rob and Joan Ritchie are pleased to welcome Rick McKeown to our team.

Rick McKeown

I welcome everyone to reach out—whether by phone or email—and I look forward to working with you again. After battling an illness, Kathy and I made the decision to sell our company, but I’m thrilled to be back in the industry with the support of SaskPromo and Moose Jaw Express.

As the Manager of SaskPromo, I’m thrilled to be working with a fantastic team:

Kevin Ogle

Kevin Ogle joins me in Sales, and we’re proud to now offer In-House Embroidery services.

Matt Hebert

Production Manager

On the Print, Wide Format, Production and Design side, Matt Hebert leads the department, supported by two dedicated team members.

Wanda Hallborg

Sales Manager

Over at the Moose Jaw Express, Wanda Hallborg manages the newspaper and Publications side of the business.

Being back in this profession has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m truly enjoying every moment. If you see me at an event or around town, don’t hesitate to stop and say hello. I look forward to catching up with all my existing clients and building new connections along the way.

Rick McKeown

Pig spleen prognosticator returns, predicts temperature swings, rain ‘at strange times’

Saskatchewan’s pig spleen prognosticator has returned after a one-year absence with his weather predictions, with the fatty spleens suggesting above-average precipitation from January to March and below-normal temperatures from April to June.

Jeff Woodward, one of the more well-known pig spleen prognosticators, has been predicting the weather by analyzing pig spleens for 16 years. He took over from his late uncle Gus Wickstrom, who had been well-known as the pig spleen weather forecaster for decades.

Surrounded by family and friends, Woodward conducted his preliminary prognostications for 2025 in late December — the event was set for Nov. 23, but a blizzard prevented the gathering — in Regina and finalized his predictions on the Collier farm south of Gull Lake.

Woodward based his forecast on spleens from several locations around Tompkins, including the

When a pig is slaughtered in the

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

A screenshot from a Facebook video shows Jeff Woodward working with the pig spleens to make his 2025 predictions. Photo courtesy Facebook

fall, the spleen is set aside to examine. To make predictions, the spleen is divided into six equal parts representing the months of the year from January through June.

The theory is that the pig has an innate sense of what the upcoming winter will be like and a skilled prognosticator can look at the spleen of a mature pig and determine what the pig was anticipating between January and June.

2025 predictions

The prognosticator noticed “a lot of

fat” on the 11 spleens this year, with one band of fat representing above-average precipitation and average winter temperatures during the first half of winter and a second band of fat representing below-normal temperatures and average precipitation from early spring to early summer.

There was also an anomaly on a spleen late in the forecast, like near the end of May or early June, which Woodward believed indicated “a significant event” would occur around that time.

“With the above-average snowfall during the first part of the winter, the province should be prepared for some localized flooding when there is a rapid warming in the spring,” he added. “Large swings in temperature will be common, and there will be rain at strange times during the winter.”

February

February will start with mild weather with some rain and snow, with the peak of winter happening near the end

Youth are invited to share their stories of

Journey to Hope Moose Jaw is preparing to host its fourth annual open mic night at The Hive where local youth are invited to share their personal experiences on the themes of hope, healing, and honouring this month.

The open mic event will take place starting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13.

“Our Journey to Hope youth chapter hosts (what has become) an annual event where folks are invited to share on the themes of hope, healing, and honouring, and it’s a way of offering people positive coping strategies in life,” said Della Ferguson, chairperson for Journey to Hope and a liaison to the organization’s youth chapter.

Around those themes, youth are invited to share their thoughts, expressions, or perhaps personally empower themselves through the opportunity to speak their truth in these areas.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for the students to express themselves and for folks to hear the students’ expres-

of the month and snow persisting into March. The spleens suggested that major rain and snow events will happen around Feb. 9 and 15.

March/April

March will be an average month, but since Saskatchewan has not had an average March for many years, it might seem colder than usual. People should expect some significant rain and snow around March 21, although the southwest corner of Saskatchewan near Maple Creek and Tompkins will see the water disappear quickly.

April will be different from March, as it will become progressively colder around April 7, with rain around the 20th and 28.

May/June

May will remain cool until the 10th when it begins to warm up, while rain is expected on the 20th. Meanwhile, June will see more normal temperatures, although a cold and wet spell is likely to happen around the 17th to 20th.

healing at Journey to Hope’s

open mic night

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

sions, but also for community members — we welcome that as well and (they can) share with us (too).”

Each presentation is expected to run for three to five minutes, cover the given topics, and Ferguson is asking that all speakers keep their expression family friendly given the public nature of the event. In total, the event is expected to run for around an hour and a half.

One youth will be designated as the MC for the evening, and then each speaker will take their turn talking about what they wish to share. The designated MC will likely be from A.E. Peacock Collegiate, Central Collegiate, or Riverview Collegiate, where Journey to Hope hosts its youth chapter.

“We’ll just kind of let it organically flow from there and we’ll pace it out,” Ferguson said.

The speaking event is once again being held at The Hive, which Ferguson described as “a very artsy atmosphere and… a safe space for folks to share.”

“It feels cozy and warm and welcoming, and that really makes a difference in making it the right experience for folks,” she said.

In return, all she asks is for guests to

consider purchasing a coffee or bakery item during their stay to help support the hosting local business.

“I just really believe that, so often when we share something that is from our heart…, there’s somebody out there who needed to hear that.

“It always ends up just being magical,” Ferguson shared. “I find I always walk away inspired by people.”

Journey to Hope’s open mic night is part of an ongoing yearly program. If you are interested in attending the next event, you can contact the organization or follow its Facebook page, ‘Journey to Hope Moose Jaw Inc’ for upcoming announcements.

To contact Journey to Hope for more information email Info@HopeSummit.ca. As well, everyone wishing to speak at the event is asked to register as far in advance as possible through email at the same address.

The Hive is located at 23 Main Street North.

Chamberlain honours retiring councillor’s 44 years of service

Two important elections happened in November 1980: Ronald Reagan was elected United States president and Lyle Bennett was elected a councillor in the Village of Chamberlain.

While Reagan was limited to two terms — or eight years — in office, Bennett’s political career was more than five times longer than The Gipper’s. However, like all careers, Bennett’s time serving his community has come to an end.

The village council, administration and townspeople honoured Bennett’s 44 years in office with a celebration at the village hall on Jan. 30. Bennett had decided last year not to run in the November municipal election because of health issues.

During the ceremony, Mayor Herman Zentner praised Bennett for his “impressive length of service” and for achieving such a historic milestone. The new mayor noted that the outgoing councillor was first elected on Nov. 3, 1980 — a day before Reagan’s win — and held that position for 11 consecutive terms.

Bennett’s last day was Nov. 20, 2024.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

“To put that in another perspective, Lyle had been a councillor for as long as I am old,” Zentner chuckled. “It is rare to come across a person that shows the dedication to hold a position for as long as Lyle had.”

The mayor then presented Bennett with a plaque featuring a picture of the community.

“I got 44 years of taking on this council job and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” Bennett said. “We’ve had some tough times and some good times and some bad times and some rough times, but we had a good time, and that’s what the main thing is all about.”

The retiring councillor noted that, if it weren’t for his poor health, he would have run again in the municipal election last fall. Meanwhile, he thanked the taxpayers for “putting up with (him) all these years,” while he congratulated the new three-man council for stepping forward with new ideas.

Bennett jokingly added that he hoped the new council could “(make) Chamberlain great again.”

The retiring village councillor later said that he appreciated the community’s

and several town administrators while he attended over 500 council meetings and many more special meetings.

When he first started, the threeperson council and administrator held its meetings in a small room. Since smoking inside was still permissible in the 1980s, Bennett noted that when the meetings ended, he couldn’t see anyone across the table because of the thick smoke cloud.

One big issue council faced regularly was the landfill, a topic that consumed the first half-hour of every meeting because residents complained that other residents weren’t following the rules when dumping their refuse, he recalled.

Being a councillor was plenty of fun, although there were always issues with keeping the water flowing and sewer infrastructure maintained, said Bennett.

“nice gesture” with the ceremony, but he didn’t take on the job for this type of recognition. Instead, he was “pleased and proud” to represent Chamberlain for over four decades.

W E D O AL L

COMME R CIA L

“I’m Mr. Chamberlain in all sense of the words. I (do) a lot of Chamberlain stuff and it means a lot to me,” the 69-year-old said, noting that his father was a councillor in the 1950s and helped bring water, sewer and power to the community.

& PERS O NA

On one occasion, Bennett recalled having to use dynamite to unplug the lagoon. He and another village employee were in a boat on the sewage pond, with the latter dropping sticks of explosives around the mound. They then retreated to shore before detonating the dynamite.

L SHREDDIN G

“It blew the mound of stuff all up in the water, and it got opened up, and it was good for 20 years … . You don’t do that today,” he chuckled.

C on dential & S e cur e

We can destroy your old tax documents, bank statements, medical records and many other types of documents.

$20.00 for first 25 lbs - .75¢ per lb after

Bennett was 25 when he first became a councillor, and over the next 44 years, he went through seven mayors

PICK UP IN CITY $25.00 per load

Bennett added that keeping taxes low, producing drinkable water, ensuring the sewer system worked and staying current on water treatment plant regulations were the main tasks he focused on during his 44 years.

B LU E PRIN T S S C ANN I N G & PRINTIN G

• We can scan and print up to 36” wide

• We can print technical documents, blueprints, posters, banners, signage, designs, maps, infographics AND MORE

A picture of Lyle Bennett from the mid-1980s when he was the Chamberlain Elks club’s grand exalted ruler. The picture hangs in the village hall with other pictures of former Elks’ leaders. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Lyle Bennett (left) accepts a plaque of recognition from Chamberlain Mayor Herman Zentner for his 44 years of service as a village councillor. Bennett retired in November because of health issues. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Capilano Court tenant evicted over his service dog

Vernon, 50, has lived with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-concussion syndrome since 2008, and has owned Maverick, a Doberman pincher, for the past six years. The dog has been his psychiatrist-approved support animal since June 2024.

Vernon had a two-hour interview with officials from Capilano Court — an assisted living care home under the PSRV banner — in August 2024 to determine whether he and his support dog were acceptable, he said during a recent interview. Officials called him several months later and agreed to accept him and Maverick, so they moved in on Dec. 4, 2024.

Then, unexpectedly, on Jan. 6, the man received a formal eviction letter from the organization giving him 30 days’ notice.

“The reason for this eviction notice is some complications with having a canine in our facility,” Wendy Lake, the on-site manager, wrote.

Vernon’s tenancy at Capilano Court ended on Thursday, Feb. 6, so he had to vacate the property on or before that date, Lake continued. She encouraged him to find help to remove his belongings and return his keys by that time.

“Failure to vacate the premises by the specified date may result in legal action to regain possession of the property. Please take this notice seriously to avoid further complications,” she added.

The MooseJawToday.com called Lake about the letter, but she declined to comment.

Vernon pointed out that the eviction

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

letter is vague and doesn’t offer much information about the situation.

Meanwhile, after receiving the document, he went to the Saskatchewan Ombudsman and was told to contact the Ministry of Health’s community care branch to have one of its standards consultants for personal care homes investigate the situation. The consultant’s findings would then enable the ombudsman to review the issue officially.

Vernon expected the ministry consultant to begin her investigation soon, which would include speaking with Capilano Court staff and reviewing security videos. If the consultant’s report is against Vernon, he could apply to the Court of Appeal to overturn it.

The Ombudsman’s comment

The Ombudsman’s office said by email that it couldn’t comment on specific files or who had contacted it. Instead, it said that it valued everyone who contacted the office, listened to each person to determine whether the office could play a role and directed people to the best resources.

Meanwhile, the office said it had no jurisdiction over personal care homes, while anyone with concerns about such places should contact the Ministry of Health, which licenses and oversees those homes. However, the ministry was within the office’s jurisdiction and it could receive concerns about that agency.

Finding a lawyer

The resident said it was difficult to find a lawyer in Moose Jaw who would take on his case because many have a

Michael Vernon and Maverick, his emotional support animal, days before they were evicted from Capilano Court. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

conflict of interest since they have connections to Capilano Court’s multinational ownership. Although the lawyers “had a heart” for Maverick, they encouraged him to look to Regina or Saskatoon for legal support.

“I did find a lawyer. He’s extremely interested … (because) this is a precedent-setting case,” he continued. “It has never been seen on the books, as the ombudsman said, and neither has the Ministry of Health (seen something like this) … nor has the (provincial Office of Residential Tenancies).”

Vernon recalled his lawyer, Michael Scott, with KMP Law in Regina, telling him that Capilano Court allegedly had “one foot in the toilet here” because a manager had vetted and accepted him

and Maverick, and then suddenly, he was being evicted even though his dog hadn’t bitten anyone.

MooseJawToday.com contacted Scott’s office but did not receive a reply.

The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC) says that emotional support animals have “extremely high status” as service animals for people who face undue stress, Vernon said.

Maverick helps him with his emotional regulation and daily structured routine, as his physician, Dr. Om Prabha Moorti, wrote in a letter on Aug. 22, 2024. Vernon also received a similar letter from the Broad Street Clinic in Regina on June 4, 2024.

Besides acquiring a lawyer, Vernon has submitted a complaint to the SHRC requesting that it review his case and award him damages of about $300,000.

SHRC’s comments

The SHRC said by email that it is a neutral organization mandated to serve the public interest, while its focus on mediation and restorative justice outcomes requires that its complaint process remains confidential. Therefore, it didn’t discuss or disclose details about complaints.

The commission pointed to its website for information about the complaint process, service animal policy and emotional support animal policy.

“Emotional support animals (or therapy animals) provide emotional support and therapeutic benefits but do not have specialized training to provide services for a person with a disability,” the SHRC added.

Capilano Court tenant now living on the cold streets after eviction

Michael Vernon is now homeless after Capilano Court evicted him and his emotional support animal, Maverick, leaving the pair to survive on the streets during a cold and snowy winter.

The assisted living care home, which operates under the Prairie Skies Retirement Villa (PSRV) banner, told the man on Jan. 6 that it was evicting him because there were “some complications with having a canine” in the building, but never said what those complications were.

It gave him until Feb. 6 to leave, but the resident vacated his suite on Feb. 4.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Vernon, 50, has lived with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and post-concussion syndrome since 2008 and has owned Maverick, a Doberman pincher, for six years. The dog has been his psychiatrist-approved support animal since June 2024.

Vernon told MooseJawToday.com that he was unable to find alternative housing before his eviction, so he is sleeping at the Willow Lodge shelter and is on the streets during the day.

He said he suffered frostbite on his right hand because of that exposure, while he alleged that police officers

had stopped him twice to conduct wellness checks on Maverick because of the weather.

“So, they’re keeping a very close eye on Maverick to see if there is any distress, which is obviously happening,” Vernon said.

Furthermore, Vernon alleges officers told him that if the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC) determined that Capilano Court’s actions constituted an illegal eviction, they would open a file and investigate the care home for abuse and neglect of an emotional support animal.

“So this keeps morphing into something bigger than just the eviction. So, it’s precedent-setting (because) no one has seen anything like this (situation) before in the courts,” Vernon alleged.

The man also alleges that someone from the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation is attempting to secure housing for him from the Moose Jaw Housing Authority, using medical documentation from his doctors saying he requires Maverick for his mental health.

A fast-moving situation

Before Vernon and Maverick hit the

Continued on next page

Capilano Court tenant now living on the cold streets after eviction, con’t

streets, he told MooseJawToday.com that his lawyer, Michael Scott, had decided that they would pursue mediation through the SHRC.

Vernon had originally contacted the Ministry of Health’s community care branch to have one of its consultants for personal care homes investigate; the consultant did and initially sided with Capilano Court.

Vernon noted that the consultant reviewed a medical certificate that his physician wrote last August saying that Maverick, “which is a pet dog,” should be considered an emotional support animal. The alleges that the consultant focused on the word “pet” and used that to uphold Capilano Court’s eviction.

Vernon said he believes the consultant focused on “pet” because pets have no rights, whereas an emotional support or service animal does.

Vernon’s physician, Dr. Om Prabha Moorti, learned about the consultant’s decision and sent “a scathing letter to the ministry saying you’re going to be breaking serious laws here,” he recalled.

commodation for the maintenance of the patient’s mental health stability,” wrote Moorti, who also wrote a comprehensive explanation of how the dog supports Vernon.

Another physician, psychiatrist Dr. Gift Kariko from Regina’s Broad Street Clinic, also wrote a letter saying Maverick was an emotional support animal and “is not a pet.”

Vernon also alleged that his psychiatrist spoke with the ministry and “told them, ‘Don’t screw around on this because you’re dealing with disability law and emotional support animal law.’” So, the ministry allegedly “flip-flopped” and decided to support Vernon instead of Capilano Court.

Furthermore, Moorti allegedly wrote “a pretty strongly worded emotional support letter” to Capilano Court, but the assisted living care home has failed to comply, Vernon alleged.

Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw’s board members recently toured the site of the new hospice wing at Pioneer Lodge and shared news of the latest construction progress with the community.

Although an exact time and date have yet to be confirmed and will depend on the progress of renovations, construction is expected to be completed by the first week of March with a ribbon cutting anticipated for April.

“You can really see that we’re getting close to the finish line on the main wing part. That was super exciting,” said Sara Bryan, chair of the Heartland Hospice board.

The project originally began in May 2024 and aims to add three fully furnished hospice palliative care rooms to Pioneer Lodge. These rooms will be complemented by a fully renovated family room equipped with library services and a kitchenette to provide a comfortable space for families during challenging times.

Additionally, the adjacent outdoor Serenity Garden is undergoing seasonal enhancements to offer a tranquil outdoor

Moorti also submitted an updated medical certificate on Jan. 20, saying Maverick has emotional support animal status, has provided that service since June 27, 2024, and has a lawful certificate to back that claim.

“And Maverick is not a pet. And hence the patient should be allowed to have the emotional support animal by law and should be allowed this as an ac-

MooseJawToday.com reached out to the Ministry of Health and Moose Jaw Police Service for comment but did not hear back by publication time.

Heartland Hospice’s palliative care wing at Pioneer Lodge on track to open this spring

Aaron

Walker - Moose Jaw Express

environment for patients and their loved ones — although this project is on hold for the winter season.

This initiative has been driven by Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw, a nonprofit organization established in November 2014 to improve and expand palliative care options in the city. Over the years, Heartland Hospice has collaborated with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the Ministry of Health, and various community partners to bring its vision to fruition.

In recent weeks, renovations at Pioneer Lodge have included the installation of flooring, millwork, ceiling lights,

sprinklers, and interior doors. Furniture and equipment have already started to arrive including specialized “cuddle beds” designed to allow a second person to lie comfortably beside a loved one — an update that staff consider essential for resident’s care.

The project is being led by C&S Builders in Moose Jaw, who are responsible for construction and project management duties. Local suppliers including Budget Blinds have contributed furnishings and other elements, with Jillian’s Design Elements sponsoring all furnishings in the family room.

Once completed, all major donors who have contributed to the Capital Campaign will be represented in an onsite plaque and Saskatchewan-based artist Kayla Hanson is contributing a lily mosaic in the space. There will also be one additional surprise that hasn’t been revealed yet.

Fundraising efforts have been pivotal in advancing the project. As of January 2025, the Capital Campaign has raised around $809,000 out of its $1 million target thanks to community support

and events like the Spurs and Stilettos Cabaret.

Bryan wished to point out that, due to the Canada Post strike action in late 2024, the CRA has extended its charitable donation period for contributions to organizations such as Heartland Hospice. If you still wish to donate, you’ll now have the option to write it off on either your 2024 or 2025 tax return.

On Wednesday, Feb. 26, and on Thursday, Feb. 27, Heartland Hospice will be holding a rib night fundraiser to raise more funds toward the project at The Mad Greek restaurant featuring boneless Greek ribs, Caesar salad, and garlic toast. Tickets are selling for $25 apiece and can be purchased through a link on Heartland Hospices’ Facebook page, ‘Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw,’ or by emailing Event@HHMJ.ca. Pioneer Lodge is located at 1000 Albert Street and the home can be reached at 306-693-4616.

To learn more about Heartland Hospice and its work in the community, visit HeartlandHospiceMJ.ca or call 306690-8699.

A letter from Michael Vernon’s doctor from January, which was an update on the first letter from August 2024.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

A letter from Michael Vernon’s psychiatrist. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

The new palliative hospice care wing is expected to open at Pioneer Lodge this spring.

Photo by: Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

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

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. © 2025 KrazyDad.com

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

ADULT, ADVISE, AFFECT, AGAIN, AGENT, ANNIHILATE, BARGE BEERS, CHANGE, CHECK, COLOR, CRUISE, DETERMINE DEVELOPMENT, DISPARAGE, ENGINE, ENTIRE, EVERY, HASP, INVENT, LEASE, MONTH, NIGHT, NOSE, PALE, PASTE, PHONE, RUMOR, SNORE, STOCKPILE, TANGIBLE, THERE, TRAIN, TRIAL, VASE, VOWEL

ACROSS

1. Seaweed

6. They come from hens

10. Actors

14. Stories

No man is offended by another man's admiration of the woman he loves; it is the woman only who can make it a torment.

15. Fluid escape

16. Completed

17. Rewrites

18. Sole

19. Connecting point

20. Twice per year

22. Portent or omen

23. Cartoon bear

24. Put up with

26. Passed with flying colors

30. Hurried on foot

31. Partially opened flower

32. Memo

33. Ragout

35. Become calm

39. Legal guardian

41. Fill with apprehension

43. Downhill racer

44. Cicatrix

46. Ages

47. Type of umpire

49. Not new

50. Blowgun missile

51. Cunning

54. Abound

56. Was a passenger

57. Drunk

63. Ardent

64. Adopted son of Claudius

65. Tally

66. Tumbled

67. Acquire

68. Not those

69. 3

70. Type of sword

71. Affirmatives DOWN

1. Scottish affirmatives

2. Stow, as cargo

3. Filled with gloom

4. Against

5. English exam finale, often

6. Lengthens

7. Authentic

8. Big bash

9. 1st American space station

10. Analyzed

11. Evade

12. Marsh plant

13. Vogue

21. Scandinavian

25. Prickle

26. Picnic insects

27. Seals a champagne bottle

28. Decorative case

29. Well-earned

34. Ribs in corsets

36. Former Italian currency

37. At a distance

38. Long and open portico

40. Tall woody plant

42. Command

45. Clique

48. Periphery

51. Vessel

52. Devotee

53. Ancient Roman magistrate

55. Foggy

58. Half-moon tide

59. Dull pain

60. Foot digits

61. Celtic language

62. D D D

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)

I pay cash for unwanted firearms,

CLASSIFIED ADS

ammunition, and other firearm related items. Also, free pick up of unwanted yard, garden, and acreage equipment, chainsaws, ATV’s, snowmobiles, etc. Call of text 306-641-4447.

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

306-990-0387

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. 306-681-8749

160 MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE - Sunset Cemetery

Last Supper Cremation Plot #212. Asking $1600, open to reasonable offers. Please call 306693-2003. Fur rugs for sale, 2 bears, fox, coyote, skunk. 9 grandfather clocks. Queen Ann Chesterfield with 3 chairs in good shape. Oak table with 6 chairs. 2 oak China cabinets. Please call 306-6920825.

10 small black ornaments, oak hope chest, 2 antique lamps, 6 totem poles, carving on ostrich egg, oak Italian liquor cabinet, hair art, 3-foot buffalo medicine man, 8 grandfather clocks. Please call for more info, 306-692-0825

135 TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

6 metal poles 14’ x 3” heavy wall steel only $100. each, it’s a steal of a deal. Call 306-694-1322.

105

AUTOS

2011 Jeep Liberty 4x4, 245,000 kms, 3.7L, remote start, many new parts, well maintained. Asking $5200 OBO. Call 306-6308118

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

Acronym

An acronym is a word formed from the initial letters of each of the successive parts or major parts of a compound term. English acronyms have been around since the 1940s. Early acronyms were NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), radar (radio detection and ranging), and laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation).

The English word acronym was probably borrowed from the German word akronym. Akronym was derived from the Greek word akros, meaning topmost or highest, combined with the Greek word onyma, meaning name or word. Germans started using akronyms in the early 1900s. GESTAPO (Geheime Staatspolizei) is a familiar example to many English speakers.

An acronym is a kind of abbreviation that is pronounced as a word. ASAP is an abbreviation of as soon as possible. It qualifies as an acronym if it is said as a word, but if A-S-A-P is spelled out it is an initialism. FBI is an abbreviation of Federal Bureau of Investigation. FBI is not an acronym but an initialism because it is not said as a word. However, many use the term acronym to mean initialism.

Abbreviations have multiplied in recent years because of text messaging. Until 2017, one text could include no more than 140 characters and 20 characters for a username. Abbreviations are still the trend today as people want to save their efforts and message on the go.

OK is technically an acronym, as it is used today. It seems to have originated around Boston as part of a fad of abbreviating misspellings in the late 1830s. OK was originally an initialism of ‘oll korrect’ as a misspelling of ‘all correct’. This origin was first described by linguist Allen Walker Read in the 1960s.

As an adjective, OK means adequate or acceptable as a contrast to bad. The boss approved this, so it is OK to send it out. However, OK can also refer to mediocre in contrast with good. The French fries were great, but the hot dog was just OK OK as an adverb means not bad.

You did OK for your first time curling. It can also be used as an interjection to denote compliance. OK, I will do that. OK, that is fine.

When used as a noun OK implies assent. She gave her the OK to purchase whatever candy she wanted from the store. Sometimes OK functions as a verb indicating agreement. He OKed the draft copy of the document.

OK can also be used with appropriate intonation to indicate doubt (OK?) or seek confirmation (Is that OK?)

As an initialism, OK was popularized by the 8th President of the United States. In 1840 Martin Van Buren’s campaign used the slogan ‘Vote for OK’. Martin Van Buren was given the nickname ‘Old Kinderhook’ because of his hometown of Kinderhook, NY. His followers join OK Clubs around the country. That campaign popularized the word and perhaps hijacked the story of its origin. There are still those who believe that ‘Old Kinderhook’ is the original meaning of OK

Other theories about the origin of OK, indicate that it may have come from the Greek phrase ola kala, which can be translated as all good. Others claim OK may have come from a communion token that meant Old Kirk. Some maintain OK came from bakers stamping their initials on biscuits.

CCRAP was originally used for the

accessories on sale now!

Canadian Conservative Reform Alliance Party, but the party later changed its name (for obvious reasons).

I still get confused by abbreviations in text messages. IMHO means ‘in my humble opinion.’ FWIW means ‘for what it’s worth.’ FOMO stands for ‘fear of missing out.’ SSDD means ‘same stuff, different day.’ TLDR means ‘too long; didn’t read.’

Grandma entered the texting era when she received a new smartphone. After a few days of experimenting with texting and using acronyms and initialisms, she sent a text to the family about her sister in Nova Scotia. “Your great aunt just passed away. LOL.” One brave youngster replied, “Why is that funny, Grandma?” “It’s not funny! Wht do you mean?” “Grandma, LOL means ‘laughing out loud!’” “OMG! I thought it meant ‘lots of love.’ Now I’ll have to call everyone.”

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.

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.

Obituaries / Memorials

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Ruth Janel Elsworth (née Ringdal), age 66, of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, on January 18, 2025. Ruth was born on June 22, 1958, in Plentywood, MT, to Pastor Palmer Ringdal and Marion Ringdal (nee Laird).

Ruth was predeceased by her parents, Marion and Rev. Palmer Ringdal. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Robert Elsworth; her sons, Warren Curtis Ringdal of Regina, SK, and Samuel Robert Elsworth of Hague, SK; and her grandson, Joel Ringdal of Regina, SK. She also leaves behind her siblings: Connie (Allan) Engh of Minot, ND; Wendy (Allen) Wood of Grand Forks, ND; Paul Ringdal of Hawarden, SK; Pam Mathson of Grand Forks, ND; and Kathy Ringdal of Indian Head, SK. Ruth will be deeply missed by her beloved aunt, Mabel (Walter) Wall, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A private committal will take place at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Hawarden, SK. The family warmly invites you to join them in celebrating Ruth’s remarkable life. The Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 601 Ash Street, Outlook, SK. For those unable to attend, the service will be live-streamed.

Please visit https://www.youtube.com/@BethlehemOutlook to view the live stream. Donations may be directed to Wellspring Ministries of Alaska, www.akwellspring.com/donate. The family is being cared for by Outlook Funeral Chapel (306.867.8255). To share memories or leave condolences, please visit outlookfuneralchapel.com or call (306) 867-8255.

Burrowing Owl Passes Away

By Robert Thomas

“At 11 (years old) Chip (a burrowing owl) lived a good long life,” George Fowler general manager of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company told the group’s monthly board of directors meeting.

Fowler said on average burrowing oils in captivity have a lifespan of eight years.

The Centre is set to attempt to breed owls this spring.

The Centre is hoping to have two owls hatched for themselves

ONE OF THE SASKATCHEWAN BURROWING OWLS CENTRE OWLS - MJ INDEPENDENT FILE PHOTO

with owl centres in Manitoba, Alberta and BC looking for a single owl each.

In order to meet the numbers of owls needed the Centre would need to hatch five birds.

Last year the owls had eggs but they were infertile and did not hatch.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ lifestyles/2025/1/28/burrowingowl-passes-away

Postal Strike Negatively Impacts Adopt An Owl Christmas Fundraiser

The recent Canada Post strike hit the bottom line of a major fundraiser for the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Centre.

Each year at Christmas time the Centre runs an adopt a burrowing owl fundraiser. With Canada Post not functioning the fundraiser was not successful and cost the Centre an estimated loss of $10,000.

“The postal strike had a big impact,” George Fowler general manager of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company said.

The fundraiser works by people adopting owls to mail in an

By Robert Thomas

application and payment with the Centre mailing back the adoption package.

“A number of the adopt an owl applications have come in since Christmas however we hope that the postal disruption does not fall at Christmas another year,” a report to the Exhibition board of governors read.

The adopt an owl program helps to pay for the care of the captive owls which are an endangered species.

The Centre is not the only charity or non-profit group financially impacted by the postal strike.

Media reports have many charities and non-profit groups across Canada financially impacted as Christmas time is when they receive the most money from fundraising.

For anyone interested you can still adopt an owl. The cost is $50 for six months, $100 for a year or $175 for two years.

For more information about adopting an owl or purchasing call (306) 692-2723.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ lifestyles/2025/1/28/djel5a5tl0z04mzhu6wvo57sce55v5

TRINITY UNITED CHURCH

277 Iroquois St W Moose Jaw, SK

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 is holding an art Show and Sale in the Town N Country Mall on February 12th through to the 15th. The show will be open during mall hours with guild members displaying and selling original art as well as cards and prints. Members will also be demonstrating live painting for your enjoyment. This is a great opportunity to get that special someone in your life a unique Valentine’s gift. Square One Community Inc Walk For Warmth will be held on Thursday, March 13 from 7-9pm - Start at Square One Community 138 Fairford St. W. Walk as an Individual. Walk as a Team. Raise pledges as an Individual. Raise pledges as a Team. To register and receive your pledge forms and walk information, please visit: https://www.squareonehousingmoosejaw.com/walkfor

The Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF) third annual “Healthcare Rocks!” fundraiser will be held at the Mae Wilson Theatre on Saturday, March 15. Doors open for 7pm and free hors d’oeuvres will be provided courtesy of the Grant Hall Hotel. Elton John-themed merchandise will be available in a silent auction and a specialty drink called “Rocket Man” will be offered at the bar. There’ll also be “a few surprises” in store for guests.

Tickets are $50pp plus applicable taxes and fees, and can be purchased online at MooseJawCulture.ca or at the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture box office at 217 Main Street North. For more information call 306-693-4700. Superannuated Teachers of Sask. Moose Jaw Branch Future Meetings: Wed. March 19, 2025/Wed. May 21, 2025

Lawn Bowling is a sport for all levels of ability. During winter, Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling club invites everyone to try it on the turf at Yara Centre now at @10am - Instruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-630-8160 or visit www.moosejawlawnbowling.com

Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: February, March, April and May. No meeting in December. Call or text 306 756 2819.

he 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 meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord. Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.

TOASTMASTERS organization provides communication and leadership skill training that fosters confidence building, personal and professional development in a supportive environment. Moose Jaw is home to 2 clubs: TAP and Big Country.

TAP meets on line on Tuesdays@7. TAP club is transitioning to a resource for building environmental awareness.

BIG COUNTRY meets Wednesdays@7 at Saskpolytech & on zoom(hybrid). For information text 306-690-8739

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am. Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds. Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787. Visit their website at https://www.moosejawlibrary.ca or visit ASK@MOOSEJAWLIBRARY.CA

Some library programs require registration by calling 306-692-8210 or emailing nsetter@ moosejawlibrary.ca

CHILDREN’S PRGRAMMING:

BABY STORYTIME Tuesdays 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room Ages: 0 to 2 and their caring adults! Drop-in Program. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room Ages 2 to 5 and their caring adults! Drop-in Program.

DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room Ages: 2 to 5 and their caring daycare providers! Drop-in Program.

LEGO WEEKENDS! Every Saturday and Sunday Open hours in Children’s Department Ages: 4 to 12 self-guided activity.

CSA TOOLKITS & ACTIVITIES Available in the Digital Library Check out toolkits and curriculum linked learning activities for youth and

educators like OBJECTIVE: Moon. Learn about the moon from an Indigenous perspective, command a rover in a simulated environment and more!

YOUTH PROGRAMMING:

DIGITAL D&D Fridays Time: 4-6pm at MJPL Youth Discord Channel Ages 16-25 Registration required Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire.4

HOOPLA Retro Crush BingePass - Relive the golden age of anime with the RetroCrush BingePass on hoopla digital. Whether you’re nostalgic for Astro Boy or seeking out Martian Successor Nadesico, stream your favorites and discover something new!

ADULT PRORAMMING:

TECH TIME Available by appointment Time: Open hours Location: Main Library Ages: Adults By appointment only - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment. MAGIC

GET INSPIRED WITH KANOPY Films for New Year’s Resolutions! Explore inspiring documentaries and instructional videos on Kanopy that will ignite your passion and elevate your spirits as we head into 2025! Access this collection with your library card today.

The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453

Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59

BINGO – Monday @ 6pm

CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm

MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open Mon-Thurs 8am – 8pm.

Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open M-Thurs 8am-8pm and on Fri 8am-4pm Wood working area – Mon- Fri 8am – 4pm

Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cinnamon Buns on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed.

Billiards daily 8a.m. – 4p.m.; Monday & Thursday evenings 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 9a.m/Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m./Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m./ Weds pickleball @5pm Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Tuesdays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.; Whist –Tuesday @ 9:30am; Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.; Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm; 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m; Spades – Tuesday and Fridays 1pm ON HOLD

Full Body work out – Monday’s 10am

Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm

Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

Intro to Line Dancing – Wednesday’s @ 11am

Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Circle Dancing – Thursday 2:15pm

Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm

Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm

Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm

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/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball

Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard

Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball

Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pmRegular Pickleball

February 15 - SOCIAL DANCE/Cabaret - FOG/Steel Toed Booty from 7:30pm - 11:00pm. Cost: $15.00 per 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

Starting February 3rd, new hours will be added, Monday and Tuesday from 1 pm to 6:30 pm.

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!

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.

Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/MooseJaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@ wdm.ca

Canadian farmers dependent on strong American dollar

Agriculture faces a challenging year in 2025, according to Farm Credit Canada.

The agriculture and agri-food lender points to major trends to watch closely this year — economic growth, tariffs, trade, the Canadian dollar value, Chinese barriers to canola exports, hog export barriers, and no cow herd rebuilding.

FCC expects high imposed tariffs are a negotiating tactic and will be removed.

Lower population growth will add to a 1.77 per cent Bank of Canada estimated GDP growth. Two to three per cent growth is more usual.

Where the Canadian dollar goes is crucial. Resting at 70 cents in January, now at 69 cents US it was75 cents in 2023. The lower dollar boosts farm income.

What FCC didn’t point out was agriculture’s dependence on a low Canadian dollar value.

About $4.32 of that $13.40 a bushel canola price comes from exchange. About $1.77 of that $5.40 a pound steer price comes from exchange.

The exchange gain on $8 a bushel wheat amounts to $2.43. That represents a lot of profit even expense recovery from exchange on the US dollar.

Trump’s tariffs have provided slightly better commodity prices, as long as there is an export market.

American farmers are voicing concerns that their outlook is bleak but all other countries do well due to lower valued currencies. The US farmers want action on this file.

First month building up

Express

Building permits issued in January by city hall were up 45 per cent from last January. Permit values were $1.25 million compared with $857,000 in 2024.

Commercial construction included $925,000 for a utility building on a vacant lot on the southeast corner of the block, $78,000 for renovations to Gold Key Investments at 44 Fairford Street West, the former Times-Herald building. and $35,000 for an addition at Watch Tower Glass, 420 High Street West

No permits were issued for new residences, Last January one permit for $435,00 was issued for a single family residence.

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express