Moose Jaw Express, March 12th, 2025 by Moose Jaw Express

Residents and business leaders will have the opportunity to engage in a candid discussion with Mayor James Murdock at the upcoming “Pancakes & Politics” event, hosted by the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce this month.

The open discussion breakfast will take place at the Hillcrest Golf Course from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. on Thursday, March 14.

The event offers a platform for attendees to hear updates from the mayor, ask questions, and gain insights into the city’s latest developments, priorities, and challenges.

“Pancakes & Politics” is designed to encourage direct conversation between local government and the community in a casual and engaging setting. Topics of discussion may include economic development, infrastructure projects, city planning, and other key municipal issues affecting Moose Jaw residents and businesses.

The Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce regularly organizes similar events to foster communication between civic leaders and the business community, providing a valuable opportunity to voice concerns, exchange ideas, and learn about future plans for the city.

Tickets are available through the Chamber of Commerce and cost $20 each.

For more information or to register, contact the

A STONE’S THROW FROM HISTORY

Square One’s Walk for Warmth returns March 13 to support local housing initiatives

Square One Community Inc. is making a final push for participants and support ahead of its annual Walk for Warmth fundraiser that aims to raise vital funds for the Community Supportive Housing Initiative and to “(make) homelessness history” this month.

Walk for Warmth 2025 is set to take place from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Square One Community office on Thursday, March 13.

This year’s walk will start at the William Milne Place and conclude at Zion United Church, with the peeling of church bells expected to greet participants during the evening.

As of March 2, 12 teams have registered, but organizers are hoping to see even more community involvement to help reach their ambitious fundraising goal of $20,000.

“The reason we’re doing this walk is, number one, to raise awareness about the situation of those who are unhoused and sleeping outdoors in such a cold

Funds raised through Walk for Warmth will be used to expand Square One’s supportive housing initiative at William Milne Place — its current headquarters — where the organization is actively working to transition individuals experiencing homelessness into stable housing. To expand its services further, Square One is looking to hire

four additional staff members.

Walk for Warmth is more than just a fundraiser — it’s a symbolic and physical demonstration of the community’s commitment to addressing homelessness. Participants will take a short walk through downtown Moose Jaw, including Crescent Park, experiencing firsthand, if only briefly, the challenges faced by those who endure Saskatchewan’s harsh winter nights without shelter.

Eckstein advised all participants to dress warmly and check the forecast ahead of the walk, noting that Saskatchewan’s winters can be quite difficult. “We can experience, just for a few minutes, what some people are having to experience all day,” he said.

Beyond raising awareness, events like this can make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals. “It’s an important step for someone to feel comfortable reaching out to the community for resources and to seek assistance in changing the way things are for them,” Eckstein added.

“It’s just a wonderful way for us all

to band together to show that we care,” he said. “We can’t underestimate the power of a caring and loving community, and this is just one of the ways that we do that.”

With the event just days away, Square One is encouraging last-minute registrations for individuals, teams, businesses, and community groups. Those unable to participate in the walk can still support the cause by making a pledge or becoming an event sponsor by emailing the organization.

A pledge form is available on SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com and also on its Facebook page. Participants may register on the day of the walk, but advance registration is encouraged.

To learn more about Square One, visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw. com, follow ‘Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw’ on Facebook, or email CommunitySquareOne@gmail.com.

Walk for Warmth participants will take their first steps at William Milne Place located at 138 Fairford Street West.

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FRI: $99 - 60 Minute Facials

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Heartland Hospice calls for community support as hospice wing project nears completion

Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw is preparing for a major milestone in its longanticipated palliative care project currently underway at Pioneer Lodge.

Starting the week of Monday, March 17, the organization will begin moving in equipment, furnishings, and essential supplies for the new hospice wing, bringing it one step closer to welcoming residents in need of care during their end-of-life journey.

With this final phase of the project now approaching, Heartland Hospice is reaching out to the community for support. The non-profit is calling for donations of brand-new, still-in-the-box essentials.

“We recently received a tentative date for when we can move in all the furniture, equipment, and other items that we are supplying for the hospice wing,” said Sara Bryan, chair of Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw.

“As such, we are doing a call out to the community for donations… or funds towards (the requested items) so that (on the week of March 17) we can purchase them ourselves.”

While the hospice wing is nearly complete, the official ribbon-cutting ceremony is still pending approval from the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Bryan expects an official announcement in early April.

In addition to the new hospice wing, the one existing hospice room will be renovated into a sacred space for quiet reflection. However, this transformation will only begin once the new wing is open and in use.

“The sacred space will be located in greater Pioneer Lodge, not the wing, and as it’s currently a functioning room, there is no access to it until the new rooms are open and in use,” Bryan noted.

As of March 4, Heartland Hospice is requesting the following items in brand-new condition:

• Three electric fans, preferably made by Dyson or another easy-to-clean brand

• Three 42-inch smart TVs for hos-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A look inside the new hospice care wing at Pioneer Lodge during construction on or around Jan. 27. Tentatively scheduled to begin on Monday, March 17, Heartland Hospice has been given the go-ahead to move in furnishings and equipment as the project nears completion with an official opening date yet to be determined. Photo by: Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw

pice rooms and one 50- to 55-inch smart TV for the family room

• Four TV mounting brackets to match

• A gaming system and compatible games for the family room TV

• One wireless Bluetooth headset for the family room TV

• Three electronic photograph frames, preferably Aura Frames or a similar non-subscription brand, allowing family and friends to email photos directly

• Five Bluetooth speakers

• One two-in-one coffee maker that brews both individual K-cup coffees and full pots of drip coffee

• One electric kettle

• One toaster

• Three mini fridges to fit in a threefoot (91.44 cm) by two-foot (60.96 cm) by two-foot (60.96 cm) space

• One regular fridge for the family room, preferably 30 inches wide, full height, and counter depth

• One countertop microwave for the family room

Heartland Hospice continues to rely on community involvement to bring this vision to life. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every effort contributes to a more compassionate approach to palliative care in Moose Jaw.

“Can you believe (that, on) the

week of March 17, we will start moving in all the equipment and furnishings to the new hospice wing?” Bryan emphasized. “If you can help us out by donating any of the items on this list… or would like to make a financial contribution towards them, please reach out.”

Donations can be arranged by calling 306-690-8699 or by emailing Do-

nate@HHMJ.ca.

To learn more about Heartland Hospice and its work in the community, visit HeartlandHospiceMJ.ca, ‘Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw’ on Facebook, or call 306-690-8699.

The new hospice wing is located within Pioneer Lodge at 1000 Albert Street.

Editor’s Note

JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR

As usual, my fingers and eyes are always doing the walking through pages of all kinds of reading material, this one being a quarterly magazine – the spring journal of Magnolia by Joanna Gainer.

To be honest, I really have never bought this particular magazine before but as I am actually familiar with who she is and what she does from seeing some episodes on her on the food network or wherever, I was intrigued and I skimmed through the pages to see what was inside and then ‘bit the bullet’ and bought it.

I admit, I am sort of a magazine junkie from time-to-time but the ex-

orbitant cost of them nowadays rather impedes my consumer habits except when I am travelling or have some time to just flip through pages mindlessly.

Actually, I usually just peruse through the photos but found some pages in this magazine rather insightful and encouraging, in fact, rather inspirational for the most part.

I particularly enjoyed a page titled, “Sunday, to encourage you to slow down…” And of course, this sent the wheels turning in that little ‘ole’ brain of mine to capture some meaning for my life as I try to glean in my perusing.

Sundays were always a day of rest for my family years back.

Maybe you remember the days when (that seem not that long ago to me) stores or many restaurants or venues were closed on Sunday. Did we miss going out or doing something then???…not so much because it was the norm and all I can recall is the

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

wonderful feeling after the exhilarating afternoon nap I took on those days without any anxiety about where to go or what to do.

Nowadays, we can go 100 miles an hour any day of the week and never blink an eye or take time to rejuvenate because we can almost do anything or go anywhere any time of the day.

In my thinking, we lost a lot of ourselves when this happened. We no longer took time to rest, contemplate, meditate, or even vegetate so that we could recoup from the week and rest for what was to come.

In fact, the power of a weekly rest is a biblical and practical perspective. This practice has stood the test of time restoring balance in our lives, health and gives purpose to our lives. Our bodies aren’t made to work full speed without rest so a day off allows our body to reset. Studies show that this has many benefits, including lowering

stress hormones like cortisol, reducing the risk of chronic illnesses, improving cardiovascular health by decreasing blood pressure and enhancing sleep quality, leading to better overall energy and focus.

When we are constantly on the go, our minds can become cluttered with stress, worries, and the demands of daily life. A day of rest acts as a reset button for our mental health that improves mood and helps us to get perspective.

Did you know that many of history’s great thinkers and innovators attributed their best ideas to moments of quiet allowing thoughts to take form?

Life is more than just work and responsibilities. A day set aside a week gives us a day to think about what is important in our lives and focus on those who or what brings us pleasure. Wouldn’t we all be better for it?

Sea of green and yellow to fill downtown Moose Jaw during Francophone parade

A sea of green and yellow will fill downtown Moose Jaw in late March, as the Francophone community holds an annual parade celebrating its culture and language.

The Association communautaire fransaskoise de Moose Jaw (ACFMJ) is hosting the eighth annual Tintamarre parade on Wednesday, March 26, at 10 a.m. The event starts in Crescent Park at the Athabasca Street East entrance and heads west along several streets to École Ducharme School, with the Moose Jaw Police Service providing an escort.

More than 500 participants from the Francophone community — including students, teachers and residents — will dress in bright colours and use various objects to make noise.

The five city schools that offer French-language instruction or French immersion are École Ducharme (Francophone), École Palliser Heights (immersion), École St. Margaret (immersion), Central Collegiate (immersion) and Vanier Collegiate (immersion). Students from the University of Regina’s La Cité universitaire francophone program will also attend.

Joining this throng will be members

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

of the police service, directors of Moose Jaw’s French-language schools, the director of the Association communautaire fransaskoise and other dignitaries.

Also expected to attend are native French speakers in the community and new immigrants whose first language is French.

“We are excited to let the community of Moose Jaw know that we have a big population of Francophone (people) here,” said Christian Poumeni, the ACFMJ’s community officer. “And we expect to have fun that day and promote the French culture and celebrate our (ability) to learn French and speak French.”

Tintamarre — pronounced tint-amare —means racket, uproar or noise. It is a traditional Acadian French parade that brings people together with flags, costumes and various noisemakers. Despite its Acadian origins, Tintamarre now unites all French speakers in Canada.

Canada’s Acadian Tintamarre began in 1955 during ceremonies to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the British expulsion of the Acadians. The expulsion killed thousands of people during Britain’s war against New France in 1755.

During the ceremony in 1955, the archbishop of Moncton, N.B., invited attendees to make noise with whatever they could find; a journalist then described the sound as the heartbeat of French-speaking Canada two centuries after the attempt to extinguish it.

Moose Jaw was the first community in Saskatchewan to hold a Tintamarre, although the event went by a different name for several years, said Poumeni. He could not recall what that name was or when the event first began, only that the name Tintamarre has now been used for almost a decade.

The ACFMJ’s community officer added that Tintamarre is not only for people who speak French, but also for residents interested in learning the language or who attend Francophone activities to celebrate that culture.

Sugar shack dinner

The Association communautaire fransaskoise de Moose Jaw is hosting its traditional French-Canadian Cabane à sucre (Sugar Shack) dinner and dance on Saturday, March 15, at École Ducharme School from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

The dinner will feature chicken, potatoes, soup and the always popular — and event focus — maple taffy on snow, with a snow cone machine making the ice.

Meanwhile, Quebec musician Isabelle Mercier will perform afterward.

Tickets were on sale until March 5, but residents still interested in attending the supper — or just the performance — can call École Ducharme School at 306-691-0068 to inquire about whether tickets are still available.

For more information, visit the ACFMJ’s Facebook page, https://acfmj. ca/, or email acfmoosejaw@gmail.com.

Participants in the Tintamarre parade from past years. Photo courtesy Facebook

A Saskatoon-based agriculture company plans to construct a multi-billion-dollar nitrogen fertilizer production plant east of Moose Jaw that is expected to financially benefit area farmers and municipalities.

Genesis Fertilizers Limited Partnership plans to construct a $2.3-billion nitrogen fertilizer production and distribution enterprise SuperCentre near Belle Plaine that is expected to produce 1.128 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). Construction should start in 2026, while the plant should be operational by 2029. Construction will create more than 1,500 direct jobs and 5,000 “induced” jobs, while 180 permanent full-time employees will run the plant once it’s operational. Also, the plant’s profits will return to producers.

The company — formed in 2021 — is a farmerowned initiative that allows producers to invest based on their fertilizer requirements, according to a city council report. This ownership model should secure future supply and provide financial distributions based on plant profits, which should offset fertilizer costs. Furthermore, by establishing an ammonia urea fertilizer manufacturing complex near Belle Plaine, Genesis Fertilizers aims to reduce farmers’ reliance on imports and high freight costs and ensure a consistent and affordable supply of fertilizer for Western Canadian producers, the report continued.

Genesis Fertilizers has a network of SuperCentres strategically located across the three Prairie provinces, with these venues sourcing, storing, blending and distributing fertilizer directly to producers, the document added. This distribution network also lowers the overall cost of fertilizers to make them more affordable for farmers.

Presentation

Terry Drabiuk, vice-president and chief business development officer for Genesis Fertilizers, spoke about the proposed project during city council’s recent executive committee meeting.

Western Canadian farmers pay the highest prices for urea fertilizers in the world because they farm in land-locked Prairie provinces that are far removed from major import supply routes, he said. This allows local producers to charge farmers high prices based on

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the “NOLA-plus-freight price-setting mechanism.”

NOLA stands for New Orleans, Louisiana, since that’s from where most fertilizer is produced, Drabiuk noted. Meanwhile, fertilizer manufacturers in Western Canada enjoy low costs of production and consistently high urea profits due to the abundant supply of lowcost natural gas.

“Most of the time, Western Canadian farmers pay excessively high prices for fertilizer, (while) higher input costs reduce farmers’ income,” he said.

Drabiuk added that Canada is a leader in selling natural gas and that Western Canada produces the lowest-cost natural gas, while Canada is one of the cheapest places to manufacture fertilizer.

Belle Plaine is a great location for a nitrogen urea fertilizer manufacturing complex because it’s located 28 kilometres from Moose Jaw and 40 kilometres from Regina, he said.

Moreover, both national railways have nearby rail lines, while the site has access to water, electricity and natural gas, and a solid road network.

“… the nitrogen plants in Western Canada are selling at the highest cost and they’re manufacturing at the lowest cost, so they’re cash cows,” said Drabiuk. “That’s why we’re building this plant.”

Genesis Fertilizers “lucked out” after buying land near Belle Plaine because Whitecap Resources plans to build a carbon capture hub adjacent to the site, he continued. Therefore, the latter will capture 800,000 tonnes to one million tonnes of carbon dioxide from the former and make the former “the only green nitrogen fertilizer plant in the world.”

Meanwhile, the federal government will provide $178 million because of the carboncapture aspect, while the provincial government will provide $545 million in tax-focused incentives and benefits, Drabiuk said.

The new plant will provide security for the agriculture industry since it will reduce farmers’ dependence on

markets and mitigate tariff risks and address fertilizer price volatility, he continued.

The majority of fertilizer plants in Canada

are foreign owned, which means most of the profits made from nitrogen production leave this country, even though incumbents pay royalties, taxes and hire local workers, Drabiuk said.

Drabiuk added that Genesis Fertilizers has “an army of engineers working on this project around the globe” and has attempted to de-risk the project so it is a success.

J. MARCHESSAULT

Clark’s

Reflective Moments

By Joyce Walter - for Moose Jaw Express

Paper clip a reliable replacement for Flapper chain

Back about 20 years ago, Kyle MacDonald was in the news for his astonishing ability to trade almost nothing for something.

It all started with a red paper clip and 14 trades later the adventure ended with MacDonald owning a two-storey home in Kipling, Sk. That community ended up with a giant red paper clip as a permanent memorial to being part of this extraordinary trade deal.

I had mostly forgotten this incident until one day recently when my household made its own trade of a red paper clip for a thing-a-ma-jig to ensure the continued and successful flushing of the main bathroom toilet in our home.

As soon as I encountered the flushing problem, I advised Housemate who I figured would call our friendly plumber as soon as Monday morning dawned. In the meantime, I figured if I held the flusher down carefully during each engagement, I could get through two days

of the weekend without mishap.

Then the doorbell rang and the Nephew and Niece dropped in to visit and to replace batteries in our fire and carbon monoxide alarms. But soon he was invited into the bathroom to turn his experienced gaze towards the flusher mechanism.

In just a few moments he came to the kitchen and asked if I had a paper clip he could use. I offered him one of those big ones but it was declined, because of its size.

In my search of my junk drawer for a smaller clip, I came up with a lovely, never-before-used red paper clip. The two long-time Saskatchewan residents in the house immediately laughed and told our visitors the story of the giant red paper clip.

Nephew wandered off and soon was back with a bright smile. He had used the paper clip in the innards of the facility so that it would no longer be nec-

essary to hold down the flusher for an extended time.

I jokingly asked about the warranty on this workmanship, but I was assured a trip to the hardware store to purchase an authentic piece of equipment was in the Nephew’s immediate future. But to take my mind off unfortunate circumstances, I was told the metal clip would last longer than if he had allowed the worn piece of plastic to remain in place.

A week later my family member showed up with an official toilet flapper chain, made of stainless steel and including a hook and ring. I had no idea my red paper clip could replace such a worthy item for even a short time.

My red paper clip came out and the stainless steel flapper chain went in. There were several flushes made to ensure the installation worked and the family sat around the table to laugh about our own trading expertise.

Whereas Kyle MacDonald took

14 trades to realize his goal and had to travel a considerable number of miles/ kilometers, my goal was achieved without ever leaving the house.

I thanked my Nephew profusely for coming to my aid, and offered to reimburse the $4.50 he had spent to make his Aunt happy. He declined, agreeing only to allowing me to buy him a beverage someday. I hope he likes Iced Tea!

But drat: after his departure, upon examination of the garbage can, the red paper clip was nowhere in sight. Had he flushed it or did he slide it into his pocket to use on a future bathroom repair project?

I could have sterilized the clip and kept it as a souvenir of a disaster averted. Or I could have used it to trade for some other required household repair the next time Nephew and Niece visited.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

PROVINCIAL COURT REPORT

Trial dates set for man accused of attempted murder with ball bat

Trial dates have been set for a Moose Jaw man who is accused of attempted murder with a baseball bat after being involved in a two-vehicle collision.

Ryan Milne, 41, appeared by video in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on March 6, where Judge David Chow announced that the accused’s trial would occur from April 28 to 30 since those dates fit the defence counsel’s schedule.

The judge then asked the Crown prosecutor whether her office had considered asking for a case management conference (CMC) to narrow down the triable issues considering the defence lawyer had only recently acquired the file.

Crown prosecutor Monique Paquin

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

replied that no such meeting had been held yet, while it appeared that there was very little time to hold a CMC between now and the trial. Moreover, holding that meeting was subject to her senior colleague’s schedule since he would be prosecuting the case. Yet, she agreed that it was a good idea to schedule a CMC.

“Yes, I am definitely in support of that,” agreed defence lawyer Ola BenAjayi.

Judge Chow then scheduled the hour-long case management conference for Monday, April 7, starting at 2:30 p.m. He also ordered that Milne appear in person for that meeting, while he remanded him back into custody until then.

According to previous information, police charged Milne with three counts of attempted murder following a motor vehicle collision on the east side of the city.

On May 30, 2024, around 6:15 p.m., the police service responded to an incident at the intersection of Thatcher Drive East and Highway 1. Once on scene, officers noticed significant damage to both pick-up trucks involved in the incident.

Through their investigation, they determined that one of the pick-up trucks was travelling at a high rate of speed and intentionally rear-ended the other pick-up truck, which had three occupants in it.

“Following the collision, the male assaulted the driver of the other vehicle with a baseball bat,” the police said. “Police also discovered that the accused and the three victims were known to one another.”

EMS later transported the three victims to the hospital, where they were treated for minor injuries.

A bail hearing was held for Milne on June 11, 2024, where Judge Brian Hendrickson chose not to release the accused because he thought the Crown had made a strong argument against that action and that Milne’s defence lawyer had not demonstrated sufficiently that he should be granted bail.

Judge imposes heavier sentence on ex-City of Moose Jaw employee

Judge David Chow rarely changes joint submissions when sentencing offenders, but his concern about a former City of Moose Jaw employee caused him to impose a heavier sentence.

The provincial court judge expressed his reservations about the proposed conditions for Kodi Steven Karmarznuk during the sentencing hearing on March 6.

The offender appeared by video from the Saskatchewan Psychiatric Hospital in North Battleford.

Karmarznuk, 29, pleaded guilty to three counts of breaking into his grandmother’s home, one count of mischief for punching and damaging a friend’s TV, one count of mischief for damaging his grandma’s couch with a knife, one count of mischief for willfully interfering with property at the city complex on High Street West after breaking in using his key fob, one count of mischief at Walker’s Towing by tipping over a steel bin and one count of possessing a weapon (butcher knife) dangerous to the public peace.

He also pleaded guilty to eight charges related to breaches or failing to

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

obey court conditions.

All his charges occurred in 2024.

As part of the joint submission, the Crown and defence recommended that Karmarznuk receive an 18-month custodial (jail) sentence, while he must provide DNA samples and is prohibited from possessing weapons for 10 years.

However, since he had spent 202 days in custody, the court credited him with 303 days served, so he has roughly 237 days remaining.

“This is a pretty significant sentence for someone who hasn’t had a criminal record prior to this,” said Crown prosecutor Monique Paquin.

In crafting the joint submission, the Crown and defence were mindful that these offences were break-ins to residences and that Karmarznuk was prohibited from having contact with his grandmother, she added. Due to these patterns, “nothing other than jail (was) appropriate at this point.”

Legal Aid lawyer Zak Anderson explained that Karmarznuk worked for the city from 2020 to 2023 but was unable to continue because of his mental illness and addiction issues.

Karmarznuk has seen a psychiatrist and has taken medication to address some of the issues, but because of his paranoia, he stops taking his pills and takes illegal drugs to remain awake since he’s afraid to sleep, Anderson said.

The Legal Aid lawyer noted that Karmarznuk was homeless last year, so he slept at the Willow Lodge shelter and sometimes stayed with his grandmother when she invited him over, although he did not have permission during these offences.

Judge Chow then asked what would happen upon Karmarznuk’s release and whether the counsels had considered probation. He noted that he had “a real concern” with releasing the man back into the community without further restrictions.

Furthermore, even if Karmarznuk progressed well in custody and continued to be assessed at the hospital, the judge wanted to know what incentive the man had upon his release to continue seeing a psychiatrist.

Anderson replied they never considered probation since they thought the

man’s father would be sufficient support. Furthermore, Karmarznuk had the incentive to remain on his medications or face returning to jail.

Paquin said they thought rehabilitation was sufficient for a first-time offender, while the Crown didn’t ask for probation since Karmarznuk had a problem complying with court orders.

“… I am loathe to interfere with joint submissions … . And it is extremely rare that I deviate from joint submissions,” said Judge Chow.

Continuing, Chow said he realized Karmarznuk had no previous record but pointed out that the offences were a “significant escalation,” numerous, serious and violent. Furthermore, he had “very serious safety concerns” about releasing the man back into the community without probation to address his mental health and addictions.

Therefore, the judge imposed 12 months of probation, with conditions including taking programming, seeing a doctor and taking medications.

The judge also agreed to waive the victim fund surcharge fine.

Moose Jaw man arrested in nationwide investigation into child porn offences

By MooseJawToday.com staff

A Moose Jaw man is one of five people accused of child pornography-related offences following a nationwide investigation that included efforts by the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit.

Between Feb. 17 and 28, Sask. ICE participated in “Project Steel,” a co-ordinated, Canada-wide initiative that targeted child sexual abuse and exploitation offenders, a news release said. The project brought together 63 law enforcement partners and led to 106 arrests nationwide.

Furthermore, police safeguarded 37 children and seized 1,132 electronic devices.

During the two-week investigation, Sask. ICE executed six search warrants across the province, and as a result, it arrested and charged five people with child exploitation offences.

None of the men’s names can be published because of publication bans.

Moose Jaw

A 36-year-old man from Moose Jaw is charged with possession of child pornography, making available child pornography and accessing child pornography. He will appear on these charges in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Monday, April 28 at 9:30 a.m.

The others charged are a 38-year-old man and a 36-year-old from Regina, , a 25-year-old man from Cando, Sask., and a 66-year-old man from Lloydminster, is charged with:

Investigations into child sexual abuse and exploitation are continuing across the country.

“Online child sexual exploitation is a priority for Canadian law enforcement. Project STEEL demonstrates the strength of working together to successfully safeguard children and identify offenders,” Matthieu Girard, an inspector with the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre, said in a news release.

“The results of this operation remind us that we all need to be aware and work together to keep children safer online,” he added. “All of us have a role to play in protecting children against offenders.”

Mike Duheme, RCMP national commissioner said, “Our most effective strategy against online child sexual exploitation is collaboration. Individual police agencies cannot cross Canada from these horrific crimes.

“These investigations are particularly demanding for all of our police personnel as they must view materials that are sensitive and graphic in nature. I want to thank them for their resilience and unwavering dedication.

“Their priority is to safeguard children and apprehend the people who commit these heinous crimes.”

The Saskatchewan ICE Unit is comprised of investigators from the Saskatchewan RCMP, Regina Police Service, Saskatoon Police Service, and Prince Albert Police Service. Their mandate is to investigate crimes involving the abuse and/or exploitation of children on the internet.

R.M. OF SARNIA NO. 221

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Rural Municipality of Sarnia No. 221 for the year of 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the assessor from 8:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Thursday inclusive.

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to le his or her notice of appeal along with the $100.00 fee per alternate number payable to the R.M. of Sarnia to: Nicolle Hoskins, Secretary, Board of Revision, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd, Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 7th day of May, 2025.

Dated this 7th day of March, 2025.

Donna Flavel, Assessor.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Rural Municipality of Redburn No.130

NOTICE OF INTENTION TO AMEND ZONING BYLAW 40/1979

Notice is hereby given by the Rural Municipality (R.M.) of Redburn No. 130, pursuant to The Planning and Development Act, 2007, that Council intends to amend Bylaw No. 40/1979, the Zoning Bylaw by amending the text as follows:

1. Section 4.A(2). Permitted Uses in the Agricultural District, is amended by repealing and replacing subsection 4.A(2)D with the following:

D) Oil, gas and CO2 wells, but excluding intensive oil, gas or CO2 processing development.

2. Section 4.A.(5), Regulations in the Agricultural District, is amended by repealing and replacing subsection 4.A.(5)G Minimum Separation with the following:

G) No dwelling shall be located with less than a minimum separation distance to an operation, other than the residence of the operation, as follows:

a) to an Intensive Livestock Operation ILO Separation Distances

Type of Development

Single family dwelling not owned by the ILO operator

Multi-Parcel Country Residential subdivision

of Rouleau, Village of Drinkwater, Village of Briercrest and Hamlet of Hearne

b) 305 metres from a licensed public or private liquid waste disposal facility; c) 457 metres from a licensed public or private solid waste disposal facility; d) 305 metres from a honey processing facility; e) 400 metres from an Aggregate Resource extraction operation; f) 1.0 kilometre from sour gas wells and 75 metres from other oil, gas or CO2 wells; g) 500 metres from an Ethanol, Fertilizer or Potash development; h) 305 metres to a non-refrigerated anhydrous ammonia facility licensed by Province of Saskatchewan; or i) 600 metres to a refrigerated anhydrous ammonia facility licensed by the Province of Saskatchewan.

3. This bylaw shall come into force on the date of nal approval by the Minister of Government Relations.

Inspection: The proposed Bylaw Amendment may be inspected at the R.M. o ce between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. from Monday through Friday, except holidays.

Public Hearing: Council will hold a public hearing to receive submissions on the proposed bylaw at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in the Council Chambers of the o ce of the R.M. of Redburn No. 130, 111 Main St., Rouleau, SK S0G 4H0 to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing (or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal o ce before the hearing). For further information, please call the Administration O ce at (306) 776-2270. Dated at the Town of Rouleau, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 21st day of February 2025.

Candice Zinn Administrator

‘Smarter Science, Better Buildings’ event showcases energy-efficient living at the WDM

The Western Development Museum (WDM) in Moose Jaw hosted the “Smarter Science, Better Buildings” open house event this past weekend, featuring an interactive showroom designed to educate visitors on energyefficient living.

“We have six different workstations, and they all talk about different ways to keep your home energy efficient,” ex-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

plained Alexis Jones, the WDM’s volunteer and program co-ordinator who led the tours.

With a mix of hands-on learning and historical context, “Smarter Science, Better Buildings” continues to be an engaging way to educate both students and the general public on the importance of sustainability and energy efficiency.

Workstations covered topics such as

water conservation, lighting and appliances, heating and cooling, retrofitting, solar energy, and net-zero homes. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with the displays, including testing heat retention through different window types and observing the impact of efficient lighting systems.

One of the unique demonstrations, Jones noted, involved a simple Frisbee.

“If you put a Frisbee out on your yard, you can turn on your water and… once it fills up, your lawn is nice and watered,” she said. “It’s a simple way to avoid overwatering.”

The initiative originally started with a net-zero home project in the parking lot of the WDM in Saskatoon before expanding into a long-term partnership with the Saskatchewan Environmental Society. The educational stations have now been running for over a decade.

While the open house welcomed visitors of all ages, the Smarter Science program is primarily designed for Grade 7 students and aligns with their curriculum.

“(Students) come in and spend about eight minutes at each station,” explained Jones. “They have a booklet to complete, and after they finish in here, they go through the museum galleries for about an hour. It’s a great way to compare how energy efficiency has changed over time.”

The Moose Jaw program runs for three weeks each year, with this year’s

final student tour set for March 14, before the exhibit moves to the WDM branch in Yorkton.

The workstations receive regular annual upgrades to reflect advances in energy efficiency and sustainability.

“Innovation is always changing when it comes to keeping your home energy efficient,” Jones said. “These stations were upgraded last year to incorporate new information and technologies.”

Visitors were also invited to participate in a survey following the tour, with the chance to win a prize draw. Meanwhile, younger guests enjoyed colouring sheets and word searches.

For more information, visit WDM. ca/Moose-Jaw or reach out to Alexis Jones, the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-693-5989 or by email at AJones@wdm.ca.

The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.

look at some of the

One of the interactive learning stations in the “Smarter Science, Better Buildings” open house event at the WDM. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Each interactive learning station at the WDM included practical tips to reduce your own expenses, as shown here with a few pointers to reduce your home heating bill. Photo by: Aaron Walker

A brief

energy efficien-

improvements made at a few heritage buildings in Moose Jaw over the years. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Pall ser Plains

Free hearing tests to offer early detection for children and youths

The Prairie South School Division (PSSD) is offering a free hearing screening clinic for children aged three to 18 years to help identify potential challenges that could impact learning and development, thanks to an ongoing community partnership.

The screening will take place at the Moose Jaw Early Learning Family Resource Centre on a drop-in basis from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, April 5. No appointment is necessary.

The initiative aims to ensure that children have access to early hearing assessments, which are essential for effective communication, social development, and academic success.

“We are excited about the partnership between the Moose Jaw Early Years Family Resource Centre, East Side Audiology, and the PSSD for a free drop-in hearing screening event…,” said Tara Schauenberg, a speech-language pathologist with PSSD.

Experts emphasize the importance of early detection in hearing health. Even mild hearing loss can make it difficult for children to follow classroom instructions, engage with peers, and fully participate in learning activities — setbacks that can be addressed once identified.

“Early detection of hearing difficulties is crucial because untreated hearing loss can affect a child’s speech, language, cognitive development, and academic performance,” Schauenberg explained.

Hearing loss is not always obvious, and some children may develop coping mechanisms to compensate. This makes it difficult for parents or teachers to notice a problem.

Some common signs of hearing difficulties in children include frequently asking for repetition or clarification,

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

difficulty following verbal instructions, speaking loudly or inappropriately adjusting their volume, complaints of ringing or muffled sounds, and struggling with speech clarity.

Children who receive early intervention for hearing issues often experience significant improvements in their ability to learn and communicate effectively.

Studies have shown that even minimal hearing loss can cause academic challenges, particularly in environments with background noise — such as the typical classroom setting. Early screening helps ensure that students receive any necessary accommodations or interventions before hearing issues impact their education.

“The goal of offering free hearing screenings for children is to identify potential hearing issues early, ensuring that any concerns are addressed promptly to support the child’s overall development and well-being,” she said.

“By offering free screenings, (we aim) to provide parents and caregivers with access to professional services without wait times for appointments or financial barriers, to promote early intervention, and ensure that children receive the support they need.”

The screening itself will be conducted by trained professionals using age-appropriate methods to assess hearing ability. If further evaluation is recommended beyond the free initial test, parents will receive guidance on what

steps to take next by East Side Audiology staff.

No registration or appointment is required for the free drop-in screening test, making it accessible for all families in Moose Jaw and the surrounding area. Each test is expected to take around 10 minutes to complete.

Tests will be held at the Moose Jaw Early Learning Family Resource Centre, located at 1250 Eleventh Avenue Northwest.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division expects student enrolment to decrease by 23 students by 2029 compared to today’s numbers, with low birth rates in 2022 and 2023 contributing to that decline.

There were 2,466 students enrolled by Sept. 30, 2024, while a new five-year projection predicts that number will be 2,491 by the same date in 2025, 2,490 in 2026, 2,496 in 2027, 2,475 in 2028 and 2,443 in 2039.

Overall, from 2024 to 2039, the division expects 218 fewer students in its schools, a decrease of 8.84 per cent.

Meanwhile, the division’s total revenues as of Sept. 30, 2024, were $30.5 million, while the five-year projection predicts revenues will increase to $34.3 million by 2029.

Holy Trinity’s total expenses as of Sept. 30, 2024, were $30.8 million, while the five-year projection predicts expenses to increase to $34.3 million by 2029.

Fewer births to cause future enrolment declines in Holy Trinity

Provincial grants are based on enrolment figures and are the division’s largest revenue source. That money is expected to increase to $28.4 million in 2029 from $24.6 million this year.

Division administration presented the five-year enrolment and financial projections report during the recent board meeting.

Enrolment decline

The school division’s enrolment projections are based on information from a software program called Baragar Demographics, which considers birth rates, immigration and capture rates and provides an enrolment projection annually, explained CFO Curt Van Parys.

The most recent projection indicates that Holy Trinity should see a slight increase of 25 more students this September, leading to a projected enrolment of 2,491 pupils, he continued. Enrolments should hold steady for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years before beginning

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

a gradual decline starting in 2028-29, reaching 2,443 students by September 2029.

The projected enrolment by that year would be 23 fewer students compared to the September 2024 enrolment of 2,466, the CFO noted.

“Of concern are birth rates, with 2022 having the fewest births of any year on record — as indicated by Baragar — and 2023 births being only marginally higher,” said Van Parys.

Enrolment, economic conditions and provincial funding support are the main drivers of school divisions’ funding, while administration projects that Holy Trinity will require a funding increase of roughly three per cent annually over the next five years to sustain current programs and operations, he added.

Students currently enrolled in prekindergarten to Grade 12 were born between 2007 and 2020, during which time the number of births per year averaged 624, the document continued. Over the past three years, however, births have averaged 540 per year, a decrease of 84 births or 13.46 per cent compared to those 18 years.

“Even if the number of births does not decrease further, and as these smaller cohorts enter and progress through school, the likely result will be a decrease in enrolment,” the report said.

The report added that based on the 2021 national census, there were significantly fewer women in the 25-to-34-age group living within the school division region compared to the 2016 census, a decrease of 233 women or a drop of 6.9 per cent.

Between 2005 and 2014, the number of births to women residing within the school division boundary averaged 15 more per year, peaking at 701 births in 2014, the report said. Since then, the number of births has trended lower at an average of 20 fewer births per year.

Delivering quality education the main risk facing Moose Jaw school division

The ability to deliver a quality education to students now and in the future is one of the main issues facing Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, a new report says.

Division administration presented an update about the organization’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program during the recent board meeting. The document explained what ERM is, what is considered risk and the top 5 risks the division faces.

For the third year in a row, the top five risks the division faces are the same, including:

• A cybersecurity breach or internal leak resulting in the loss of private or confidential information, leading to reputational damage, loss of credibility and possible legal action, with a score of 14.4 out of 25. The likelihood of this happening was 3.6 out of five, while the negative effect

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

is four out of five

• The Ministry of Education could compromise or take the division’s surplus/reserve money due to economic or political pressure, with a score of 13.68, a likelihood of 3.8 and an effect of 3.6

• The Roman Catholic Church “may challenge the ethos” of Holy Trinity, leaving many families to believe that the division shares the same beliefs and “does not have an inclusive environment.” Families could also believe that the Church’s response to truth and reconciliation is insufficient and would deter them from enrolling their kids. The risk score is 13.6, the likelihood is four and the effect is 3.4

• Holy Trinity might not adequately support students and families around mental health, with the risk being 12.24, the likelihood being 3.6

and the effect being 3.4

The division may not be able to deliver a quality education because of factors such as the growth and change in composition of the student population (diversity, EAL, French immersion, special needs), leading to risks such as building capacity, busing, class size, front-line staff being unequipped to teach diverse pupils, and parental and social expectations. The risk score is 12.16, the likelihood is 3.2 and the effect is 3.8

The next five risks included succession planning and recruitment and retention, bus/vehicle collisions or incidents, funding continuity/stability, government funding and labour disruptions.

Risk is anything that prevents or impedes an organization from achieving its goals and objectives, the report said. Furthermore, it’s not just about uncertainty surrounding future events but the

possibility of adverse outcomes. Moreover, there are five steps an organization can take to manage its risk profile.

In an email, Ward Strueby, director of education, said that of the five top issues, the “overarching primary risk” is the delivery of quality education.

“Given that enrolment, economic conditions and provincial financial support strongly influence the school division’s ability to provide a quality Catholic education, the school division needs to continually assess, influence and adhere to the provincial education strategic plan while, at the same time, addressing local needs,” he said.

“The enterprise risk management program is essential in that it assists in managing risk so that available financial resources can be directed to supporting the needs of the students that the school division services,” Strueby added.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. MAR 17.

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division has amended its budget for this year after receiving nearly $12,000 extra from several sources to support various programs.

During a recent board meeting, trustees voted to update the 2024-25 budget to $47,320,640 from $47,309,230, to account for the extra $11,410 that the organization received recently.

The Ministry of Education provided the division with $3,500 to support the parent-teacher home visits initiative at All Saints in Swift Current. Staff there are in their second year of visits and work with roughly 17 families.

This initiative began in November 2021 as a pilot project at All Saints and École St. Margaret School in Moose Jaw.

This project was modelled on the Parent-Teacher Home Visits Project Organization in the United States. Research results from there show that

Catholic division gets $12K for projects, loses $90K due to enrolment issues

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

schools that systematically implemented this project experienced decreased rates of chronic absenteeism in students and increased rates of student proficiency in English and math.

The home visits connect to the Ministry of Education’s provincial education plan framework for 2020-30, including the goals of fostering connections and relationships between educators, students and their families and creating inclusive, safe and welcoming school environments.

Meanwhile, the ministry — via the federal government — provided $4,910 for speech-language pathology therapy and educational psychological assessment services through the Jordan’s Principle program.

This is the second time that the division has received funds from this program, which ensures that First Nations children can access needed products, supports and services.

Two Moose Jaw Catholic schools to continue offering French immersion in 2025-26

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Two Moose Jaw Catholic schools will continue offering French immersion programming for the 2025-26 school year, with French used to instruct pupils in classrooms 50 to 90 per cent of the time.

All school divisions are required to submit forms to the Ministry of Education about which schools will offer French immersion for the coming year.

The form lists each school seeking designation, the grades involved and the percentage of time French is used as the language of instruction for each grade. This process applies to new grade-level designation applications and renewals of previously approved programming.

For the 2025-26 year, Holy Trinity Catholic School Division plans to resubmit École St. Margaret School and Vanier Collegiate for approval as sites of French immersion education.

At St. Margaret, 90 per cent of instruction in kindergarten to Grade 2 is in

French, 70 per cent in grades 3 to 5 is in French and 68 per cent in grades 6 to 8 is in French. The division anticipates that staffing levels will remain “status quo” next year.

Meanwhile, at least 50 per cent of instruction in all grades at Vanier will be in French. However, some classes may have more instruction in that language depending upon what they are.

Division administration presented the designation form during a recent board meeting for trustees’ approval. Administration told trustees that the percentages of classes taught in French will be similar to last year and in the past.

In an email, administration said the division has roughly the same number of French immersion students year over year, and while the percentage of classes taught in French hasn’t changed, it hopes to see growth of French language students in kindergarten

Between July 2016 — when the program began — and December 2024, the program has approved more than 8.7 million products, services and supports for children to use, from speech therapy to educational supports to medical equipment to mental health services. The initiative has also spent $8.8 billion to provide this support.

Lastly, SaskTel has provided Holy Trinity with $3,000 to support the school division’s new Esports initiative. This amount represents the first year of a three-year commitment from the Crown corporation for this project.

Grant-funding reduction

Holy Trinity may have received money for three initiatives, but it also lost money recently after the provincial government clawed back nearly $90,000 because of enrolment issues.

The division received its 2024-25 final grant information from the ministry recently and learned the province was

reducing its funding by $89,570 — or 0.3 per cent — compared to the preliminary grant information that the division had received from the provincial budget.

In an email, division administration explained that Holy Trinity’s enrolment for this year did not meet the ministry’s projections, while the ministry did not change overall funding even though the total provincial student population increased by roughly one per cent.

This clawback occurred even though Holy Trinity was up 27 students or 1.1 per cent this year over the 202324 year and has its highest enrolment in the past 10 years, the email continued.

Holy Trinity plans to address this funding reduction using cost savings after an employee at the division office unexpectedly resigned, while the division will not replace that person for the rest of this fiscal year, administration added. Savings will also come through higherthan-anticipated interest revenue.

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Happy Belly Food Group finds path to growth BIZWORLD

Fifteen years ago Happy Belly Food Group started in Vancouver in the food business and expanded in recent years by franchising outlets in fast food restaurants.

Franchising offers companies a quick way to expand and build market share. The major drawback of franchising stems from revenue restrictions.

The company selling the franchise gets a one-time franchise fee, ongoing royalties on revenues, usually between two and five per cent, and any revenues from products or materials sold to the individual units.

The time from startup to profit can take years. In Happy Belly’s case the company is still not profitable after 15 years of operation.

The elusive profits may just be around the corner.

Revenues for the nine months ended September last were about $5.3 million, double the $1.85 million in 2023.

During that period Happy Belly went from 23 to 55 restaurants.

Loss was $936,000, half of the previous year. Unfortunately, debt of $4.3 million is twice the equity of shareholders.

The company has recently announced signing multi-unit franchise agreements that should help achieve profit, finally.

Happy Belly operates in two segments with consumer products producing breakfast foods under the Holy Crap label and snack foods produced under the Lumberjack brand

The restaurant franchise started major development two years ago by acquisition of five brands with 13 restaurants.

The Well Healness chain of plantbased foods has 48 units in Ontario with units in Calgary and Edmonton.

The Rosie’s Smash Burgers is based in Ontario with a recent 20-unit

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

agreement signed and 10 units in Manitoba. Rosie’s is not to be confused with the Moose Jaw outlet that was named for a famous madam on River Street.

Smile Roaster Coffee recently signed a 20-unit expansion in B.C. Yolk’s Breakfast did a 25 unit expansion in B.C.

IQ Foods has a 20 unit expansion under way in Alberta.

Ten-unit master franchise agreements have been signed in the Maritimes and Saskatchewan.

If and when these new franchises all open Happy Belly will have over 200 outlets streaming cash from royalties.

A significant risk comes from the competitive nature of the restaurant business and reliance by some Happy Belly chains on plant-based food.

Sysco Foods, the gorilla of food distributors, now carries Happy Belly products.

Happy Belly shares trade around $1.02 on the Canadian Stock Exchange, up from a low of 31 cents last summer and less than the recent high price of $1.54.

Directors own 15.8 million of the 127 million shares. A $3.6 convertible debenture could trigger massive dilution when and if the holders convert debt to shares. Conversion would also reduce debt by three-quarters.

Happy Belly Food Group presents an interesting story explaining development of a business operation and could one day be an attractive investment.

CAUTION: Remember when investing, consult your adviser and do your homework before buying any security. Bizworld does not recommend investments.

Ron Walter can be reached atronjoy@ sasktel.net

Sask. Polytech hosting event for adults looking at a second career

For over a decade, Robyn Dutertre worked 18-hour days seven days a week to pay the bills but desired a change and made the “scary” decision to return to school.

Dutertre, 42, spent 21 years as a professional chef at a child-care centre in Saskatoon, while she also worked as a server/bartender at a sports venue for 13 years. Her schedule included working from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the daycare and then 4:30 p.m. to roughly 2 a.m. at the sports centre.

The motivation to switch careers occurred when the federal government introduced $10-a-day daycare, which saw child-care staff receive a pay raise but not for support staff like Dutertre.

“There wasn’t going to be any growth for me, and I was tired of working two jobs, and it didn’t look like there would be an end to that if I were to stay at my current position,” she said.

“So then I just re-evaluated what I wanted to do and I wanted to have a work-life balance … .”

Jason G. Antonio - Moose Jaw Today.com

Robyn

Dutertre is an adult student at Saskatchewan Polytechnic who is studying the sport management specialization within the two-year business diploma program.

Photo courtesy Sask. Polytech

Dutertre quit work to determine what she wanted and whether continuing in the food industry was a good fit.

She realized she wanted to do something different since cooking no longer brought her joy.

So, driven by her passion for professional sports, she applied to be a game-day entertainment director with the Saskatoon Entertainment Group.

However, she did not receive the position since she lacked the qualifications. This prompted her to research the skills she needed, where she discovered the sport management specialization within Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s twoyear business diploma program.

Dutertre began studying in January 2024 through Sask. Polytech’s Continuing Education online stream, then transferred to the Moose Jaw campus for the in-person courses. She is now in year two and expects to graduate in June.

Dutertre will be one of several students to discuss the decision to return to school as an adult during Sask. Polytech’s “Return to Learning: Alumni Panel and Info Night” on Tuesday, March 11, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Besides the panel, attendees will also learn about programs and in-demand careers, connect with graduates

to hear how the institute changed their lives and discover why it’s never too late to start.

To attend, visit https://saskpolytech. ca/events/returning-to-learning.aspx to register.

Dutertre said it was “a shock and an honour” to be asked to speak, while she thought it would be good for other adults to hear her story.

She noted that she was apprehensive to return to school…and she said she wanted to work in a professional sports league — “I want to go big, so go big or go home” — but didn’t think the tourism recreation program could help her achieve that. However, taking the sport management specialization has prepared her for those future pursuits, including learning about partnerships, sponsorships and forming connections.

Duterte said it’s easy to become too comfortable in life, so this good decision helped change her life trajectory. Moreover, the program has given her many opportunities in the sports world.

Invitational Dance Carnival welcomes nearly 600 dancers for four-day showcase

The stage is set for the 39th annual Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival, which will bring together nearly 600 dancers from 15 studios across Saskatchewan for a four-day showcase of talent, teamwork, and artistry later this month.

The carnival will take place at A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s auditorium, and will run throughout the day from Thursday, March 27, until Sunday, March 30.

Sessions begin on Thursday, March 27 at 6 p.m., followed by multiple sessions on Friday and Saturday at 9 a.m., 1 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. The carnival concludes on Sunday, March 30, with 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. sessions.

Barb Jackman, one of the carnival’s two directors, said this year’s event is larger than 2024’s, with 15 studios participating, up from 12 last year.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

styles, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theatre, and acro, with continuous performances throughout each session.

The carnival is structured to accommodate dancers at various skill levels in three categories: beginner, novice, and open.

“This setup ensures that a dancer who is just starting out doesn’t have to compete against someone with years of experience,” Jackman explained. “It creates a more inclusive and positive experience for everyone.”

A unique feature is the video adjudication system by Protec Studios, giving dancers immediate and detailed feedback from judges.

The competition will feature two judges from Calgary, who will also present Spirit Awards at the end of each session. These awards, sponsored by Sahara Spa, recognize dancers who stand out — not necessarily for winning first place, but for their dedication, passion, and stage presence.

While the carnival may not be the biggest competition on every studio’s calendar, it holds special significance as an early-season event.

port young dancers, this year’s carnival will introduce a daily 50/50 draw at the door, with proceeds going toward a scholarship fund hosted by the Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival.

The event will also feature an onsite concession run by Dance Images, with proceeds helping raise funds for the studio’s parent committee. Local vendors are invited to reach out.

“We just hope that (residents) will come out and support the dance community,” Jackman said.

VILLAGE OF DILKE – 2025 ASSESSMENT ROLL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Dilke for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the Assessor from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days, Tuesday, March 11, 2025 to May 12, 2025.

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

The event is open to the public and tickets will be available at the door, with daily admission priced at $5 per session. A full weekend pass includes a program and access to all events over the weekend for $30.

For more information, visit ‘MJ Invitational Dance Carnival’ on Facebook or email InvitationalDanceCarnival1985@gmail.com.

A.E. Peacock Collegiate is located at 145 Ross Street East.

THE

UTOPIA CONSERVATION

&

DEVELOPMENT

AREA AUTHORITY ASSESSMENT ROLL - 2025

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Utopia Conservation and Development Area Authority has been prepared and is now open to inspection at the o ce of the secretary-treasurer, until the time for giving notice of complaints has expired, from 10 o'clock in the forenoon until 4 o'clock in the afternoon on every judicial day except Saturday.

A person who desires to complain against an assessment or non- assessment may, within twenty days after the date on this notice, notify the secretary-treasurer in writing of their complaint in accordance with section 62 of the Conservation and Development Act.

Dated this 12th day of March, 2025.

“We’re up by three more studios this year, which is great,” Jackman said. “There are a lot of competition choices out there, so we’re happy (residents) continue to support us at the Invitational Dance Carnival.”

With the 2025 BKT World Men’s Curling Championships also in town, the dance event will help boost the local economy by attracting an additional influx of dancers and their families to fill hotels, restaurants, and support other businesses.

Dancers perform in a variety of

“For a lot of these dancers, this is their first time performing their choreography on stage in full costume,” Jackman said. “That brings an added level of excitement and energy.”

Jackman said camaraderie and team support are key elements, with a strong emphasis on sportsmanship on and off the stage.

“We work hard to make sure everyone feels comfortable, supported, and respected,” she said. “It’s all about coming together as a dance community.”

As part of ongoing efforts to sup-

Any person who wishes to appeal against their assessment to the Board of Revision is required to le their notice of appeal in writing, accompanied by a $100.00 fee [payable to the Village of Dilke] for each assessment being appealed, with: The Assessor, Village of Dilke, Box 100, Dilke, SK S0G 1C0 by the 12th day of May, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. The Notice of Appeal must also be sent to the: Secretary Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, Western Municipal Consulting, Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0 before the 12th day of May, 2025.

Dated this 11th day of March 2025.

Donna Flavel Assessor

Tim Forer

Secretary treasurer

Utopia C & D P.O. Box 366 Avonlea, Sask.

SOH OCO

NOTICE ANNUAL MEETING THE UTOPIA CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT AREA AUTHORITY

Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of The Utopia Conservation and Development Area will be held in the Briercrest Community Centre at Briercrest, Saskatchewan on Wednesday, the 16th day of April 2025, at 7:00 o'clock in the evening.

Tim Forer

Secretary treasurer

Utopia C & D P.O. Box 366 Avonlea, Sask. SOH OCO

A look at one of the performances during the Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival in 2024. Photo by: Submitted photo

By Patricia

Terrariums –a landscape within

It is a wonderful time of year to explore another gardening alternative – after all with winter still keeping us indoors, why not get growing! A terrarium is really just a self-contained landscape –complete with a variety of living plants and even a critter or two if you choose. First and foremost, it is important to select a container for the terrarium that is attractive to you – be a bit adventurous here and choose something that is unique. It can be as small as a brandy snifter or as large as a huge aquarium. Spend a bit of time browsing to find any type of vessel that will hold both soil and water.

A terrarium is a beautiful, selfcontained, self-sustaining environment – one which emulates a greenhouse on

a smaller scale. They operate on the same principle as the whole earth runs on. The rain falls, then evaporates into the air, gathers in the clouds and then once again falls to the earth. It is an example of the beautiful cycle of nature. They are great choices for those who live with pets that like to chew up plants; for those looking for a beautiful living area; and for those looking for the absolute perfect gift for a gardener.

The terrarium began as a rather happy accident of pollution. In 1827, a doctor in London who was a bit of a plant fancier found his fern garden was being choked by the heavy pollution in London during the industrial age. At the same time, he was studying caterpillar cocoons in glass jars. One day, he noticed a tiny fern growing quite happily in one of the jars. Needless to say, he made the connection between safely growing his garden ferns in jars thus protecting them from the harsh realities of life in London at that time.

The lure of terrariums quickly spread as they proved to be a solution to keeping some of the more exotic tropical plants alive and well in the colder, less hospitable climate of England. Ideally, the best terrariums are filled with plants that need less light – or what we

would typically call “shade plants”. Choosing the right plants is essential as in an enclosed environment, it is necessary to ensure that all plants have similar cultural needs. Other than that, your imagination is really the only limiting factor!

races and hollows.

If you are planning to include a critter or two, ensure you are also creating an environment that will be conducive to the survival of the critter of choice. Consult a knowledgeable pet person or veterinarian to ensure the environment will fit!

Begin by lining the bottom of the terrarium with a drainage layer that is needed to help keep the roots from rotting in a very humid environment. Next, layer crushed charcoal lightly covered with a thin layer of pebbles or gravel. Following next is a layer of sphagnum moss whose purpose is to prevent the soil from sifting into the bottom drainage layer. The top is a layer of soil or media – ideally a potting soil mix laced with sand. To make your own media use two parts soil to one-part coarse sand and one-part compost. This soil layer is typically where you create your landscape by creating hills, ter-

Next is the step where you add the plants. Place them in such a way that they will be attractive from all sides that are to be viewed. Plant and ensure the soil is firmly placed around the roots. Keep an eye on the terrarium to ensure all needs are being met. Be careful not to overwater! A well-planned terrarium will ensure years of “green” happiness! Good luck!

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?

Public Notice is hereby given that at the regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday March 18, 2025 commencing at 9:00 am local time at the Rouleau Community Hall 111 Main St, Rouleau, Saskatchewan. Council will be considering the following:

For the RM of Redburn No. 130 to make application to the Local Government Committee, Saskatchewan Municipal Board for borrowing by way of bank loan or debenture as per section 162 and 163 of The Municipalities Act with proposed plans to purchase aggregate resources to prepare for future municipal needs.

Dated this 5th day of March 2025 at the Town of Rouleau in the Province of Saskatchewan.

Candice Zinn

Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express

CITY HALL

COUNCIL

NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, MARCH 10.

Beach volleyball courts in Crescent Park, more student housing for Saskatchewan Polytechnic and a new vegetable garden are some ideas that city hall’s youth advisory committee want to see implemented.

During its Feb. 24 regular meeting, city council received the committee’s minutes from its February meeting. Mayor James Murdock, council’s representative on the youth group, highlighted some of the group’s discussions.

“That was my first meeting with the youth advisory group. (They were) very young, knowledgeable individuals (who were) full of questions and (who were) very sharp,” he said. “So it was good that I could partake in that. And I learned a few things, so it was good.”

The group “really focused on Cres-

There were 11 active CUPE grievances against the City of Moose Jaw by the end of the fourth quarter, which was an increase of eight from the previous quarter, data show.

City administration presented the fourth-quarter reports during the recent regular city council meeting, with the documents showing the activities of city hall’s departments between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31.

In the human resources department report, the document showed that with labour relations, CUPE submitted 10 new grievances while the fire department’s Local 553 Union submitted one complaint during the quarter. However, one CUPE grievance and one fire grievance were resolved, while CUPE withdrew one grievance.

Therefore, by Dec. 31, 2024, there were 11 active CUPE grievances, which was an increase of eight from the third quarter.

When asked how concerning those new grievances were, city manager Maryse Carmichael said that

City hall’s youth advisory group wants to enhance Crescent Park

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

cent Park,” which was great since council is also interested in enhancing that greenspace, he continued. The youths want to see the city install a beach volleyball court there, add another vegetable garden to complement the two existing beds and hold a trade show in the amphitheatre.

According to the minutes, administration told the committee that the municipality lacks the money to construct beach volleyball courts, while such a venue would require a partnership with a third party. Members brainstormed ways to bring this project to fruition and agreed to discuss it at a future meeting.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE OF DONNA GALE FONKALSRUD, late of the City of Moose Jaw, in the Province of Saskatchewan, deceased.

ALL claims against the above estate, duly veri ed by Statutory Declaration with the particulars and valuation of security held, if any, may be sent to the undersigned before the 26th day of March, 2025.

Advocate Law Firm

Barristers and Solicitors

Suite 125-361 Main Street North Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan S6H 0W2

Attention: Estes B. Fonkalsrud Solicitors for the Executor

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE ESTATE OF AVID WISTE FONKALSRUD, late of the City of Moose Jaw, in the Province of Saskatchewan, deceased.

Advocate Law Firm

Barristers and Solicitors

Suite 125-361 Main Street North Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

S6H 0W2

Attention: Estes B. Fonkalsrud Solicitors for the Executor

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE

NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, MARCH 10.

City hall plans to distribute over $152,000 to 30 groups this year through the Saskatchewan Lotteries Community Grant Program, which focuses on developing recreation, sport and culture programs.

During its recent regular meeting, council voted unanimously to approve the grant program allocations and authorize the parks and recreation department to administer and re-allocate the program funds on a caseby-case basis using approved policy guidelines.

Saskatchewan Lotteries is making $152,588.13 available for 30 groups and 51 programs in Moose Jaw for the 2025-26 grant year. Programs must occur from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, to be eligible for funding.

All organizations receiving money must submit a follow-up report from their event or activity to receive 100 per cent of the funding.

The funding is divided into three branches to assist

Sask. Lotteries

to provide over $152K in grants to 30 local groups

Jason G. Antonio

- MooseJawToday.com

different groups: $14,644.30 for special events hosting, $43,932.90 for target populations (seniors, women, Aboriginal People, people with disabilities and single parents) and $94,010.93 for base grants.

Special events

The following groups received funding for special events:

• Minor Hockey Association, bid to host international tournament, $3,000

• Saskatchewan Shuffleboard Association Inc., individual floor tournament in July, $200

• Saskatchewan Shuffleboard Association Inc., mixed doubles floor tournament in September, $544,30

• Saskatchewan Shuffleboard Association Inc., team floor tournament in May, $200

• Band and Choral Festival’s May festival, $1,000

• Control Jiu Jitsu Inc., autumn wrestling event, $1,000

• Gymtastiks of Moose Jaw, provincial competition, $800

• Senior Ladies Fastball Association Inc., provincials in July, $800

• Festival of Dance Association, competition in early May, $800

• Kinsmen Flying Fins, junior provincials next February and March, $800

• Kinsmen Flying Fins, summer swim meet in June, $800

• Koseikan Judo Club, provincials in April, $800

• Tennis Club, seniors’ provincials in July, $800

• Thunder Creek Volleyball Club Inc., tournaments in December, January, February and March, $800

• Festival of Words’s July festival, $800

• Kinsmen Sidewalk Days festival in July, $500

• Music Festival’s April festival, $500

• Pickleball Moose Jaw, indoor tournament in May, $500

Target populations (seniors)

The following seniors’ groups received funding for being target populations:

• Moose Jaw and District Seniors Association Inc., general activities, $20,000

• Cosmo Senior Citizens Centre Inc., general activities, $9,288.60

Target populations (others)

The following groups received funding for being target populations:

• Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Regina and Area Inc., big group activities, $2,500

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, multicultural swimming and water safety, $1,044.30

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, 55-plus fitness programming, $1,200

• Families For Change Inc., imagine inclusion program, $3,500

• Ladies Slo-Pitch Inc., a fun day, $400

• Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery, CreateABILITIES, $2,500

• Special Olympics Saskatchewan Inc., Special Olympics, $3,500

Base grants

The following groups received funding as part of base grants:

• Hillcrest Sports Centre Inc., learn to golf at school, $2,000

• Hillcrest Sports Centre Inc., junior gold program, $1,300

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, free swim, skates and turf times, $25,000

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, summer youth programs, $26,000

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, notoriously active marketing, $2,500

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, Skate Vault, $1,200

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, outdoor winter programs, $1,700

• Moose Jaw Community Association Directorate, school break activity club, $1,010.93

• Minor ice arena organizations, winter extension program, $12,000

• Wakamow Valley Authority, Winterfest, $2,500

• Wakamow Valley Authority, Children’s Festival, $2,000

• Wakamow Valley Authority, youth disc golf summer camp, $800

• Wakamow Valley Authority, winter wagon rides, $600

• Hamilton Flats mixed slo-pitch league, instructional umpire clinic, $1,300

• Tennis Club, progressive youth tennis program, $1,300

• Thunder Creek Volleyball Club Inc., development camps, $1,300

• Golden Ticket Sports, minor basketball, $1,100

• Golden Ticket Sports, volleyball club, $1,500

• Kinsmen Flying Fins, development camps and swim programs, $3,500

• Mini rugby club, mini rugby, $1,100

• Adult rugby club, indoor co-ed recreational flag rugby, $1,100

• Pickleball Moose Jaw, skill rating clinic, $1,000

• Festival of Words, LitCon, $1,100

• Festival of Words, writers in schools, $1,100

CITY HALL

COUNCIL

NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, MARCH 10.

With semi-trucks regularly hitting the Main Street North bridge over Highway 1 because of their tall loads, the province has decided to upgrade that structure to prevent those incidents from happening.

The Ministry of Highways recently tendered a project with an estimated cost of $33.7 million to rebuild and raise the two overpasses on Highway 2 over the Trans-Canada Highway, a ministry spokesman said by email.

PCL Construction Management was the successful bidder of the tender and plans to start construction this April, with a completion goal of the fall of 2026, weather permitting.

“During construction, drivers can expect delays and disruptions. We urge them to slow down and obey all signs in the work zone to protect themselves and our workers,” the spokesman said. “We thank drivers in advance for their patience as we work to improve safety and capacity at this important intersection.”

Meanwhile, officials from city hall said after the

Province to spend $34M to raise height of Main Street North bridge

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

recent city council meeting that they were waiting to receive more updates about the project from the ministry. Once they acquired that information, city hall would pass it along to residents.

Officials noted that the ministry was expected to raise the bridge by one metre to a new height of 5.5 metres.

Meanwhile, city administration said it had not heard or received any new information from the ministry about potentially enhancing the safety at the intersection of Highway 1 and Ninth Avenue Northwest.

In the email, the ministry spokesman said the province continues to review public and stakeholder feedback as it works toward a long-term plan for the Highway 1 corridor through Moose Jaw. However, he did not indicate when — or if — the ministry might decide to enhance safety at this intersection.

The City of Moose Jaw held a town hall at the Events Centre on Dec. 1, 2022, to hear from residents about their concerns with the intersection of Ninth Av-

Eleven groups to get over $43K through city’s capital grant program

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Eleven community groups will receive over $43,000 in municipal funding as part of an annual capital grant program to help them upgrade the city-owned buildings or lands they use.

The community services department established an annual initiative in 2004 called the community capital grant program to fund capital development or renovation projects at municipal-owned venues or on municipal-owned land. The program contributes up to 50 per cent of a project’s total cost to a maximum of 50 per cent of available funding.

The project’s focus must be to improve parks or venues that offer recreation, sports, arts or cultural opportunities in the community. Furthermore, all projects must have a five-year lifespan, while the City of Moose Jaw must own the buildings or lands.

During its recent regular meeting, city council voted unanimously to approve $43,521 through the community projects capital grant program. It also authorized the community services department to consider applications received after the deadline using approved policy guidelines.

The department’s total budget for this year’s community projects capital grant program is $40,000, plus $3,521 in carry-forward funding from previous years,

totalling $43,521. Jan. 31 was the deadline for community groups to submit their applications.

The following groups will receive money through the program:

• Golden Ticket Sports Centre, infrastructure and cosmetic improvements, $3,250

• Hamilton Flats Slo-pitch League Inc., outfield reconstruction, $7,300

• Hillcrest Sports Centre Inc., irrigation consulting, $3,250

• Lynbrook Golf and Country Club, clubhouse washroom upgrades, $3,250

• Ladies Slo-pitch Inc., Memorial Field upgrades, $7,300

• Minor Baseball Association Inc., Blackwell Diamond batting cage upgrades, $3,250

• Lawn Bowling Club Inc., water heater project, $1,000

• Tennis Club Inc., LED light installation, $3,350

• Northwest Community Association, Spring Creek enhancements, $7,300

• Pickleball Moose Jaw Inc., wind screens, $2,171

• Ross Wells Baseball Inc., batting cage upgrades, $2,100

enue Northwest and Highway 1. Furthermore, the community’s three emergency services branches discussed their perspective about that area.

In February 2023, the ministry announced that it was planning a corridor study for Highway 1 through Moose Jaw that would focus on four main intersections and wanted public feedback about the proposed upgrades.

The study was supposed to address safety concerns along the Trans-Canada Highway where it intersected with 32nd Avenue Northwest, Ninth Avenue Northwest, Highway 2 and Thatcher Drive East.

The project’s goals included developing a plan to improve safety and traffic flow, identifying solutions at the main intersections and determining how to reconfigure the Highway 2 interchange.

Since then, however, the province has not said anything about either the survey results or what safetyfocused approach it might take.

R.M. of Elmsthorpe No. 100 ASSESSMENT ROLL 2025

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Rural Municipality of Elmsthorpe No. 100 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is now open to inspection at the office of the assessor from 8:30am to 12:30pm and 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., on the following days: Monday to Friday, inclusive, March 7th to May 6th, 2025.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal, accompanied by a $500.00 appeal fee per parcel which will be returned if the appeal is successful, with:

The Secretary of the Centralized Board of Revision, Box 328, Nokomis, Sask., S0G 3R0 by the 6th day of May, 2025.

Dated at Avonlea, Saskatchewan this 7th day of March, 2025.

Jaimie Paranuik, Assessor. Box 240 Avonlea, Sask. S0H 0C0 (306)868-2221 rm.100@sasktel.net

Beck criticizes Sask. Party’s

response to U.S.

tariffs; government defends

measures

Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck is calling out the Saskatchewan Party government for what she described as a weak and inadequate response to the latest U.S. trade tariff proposals, while the province pushes back with new measures aimed at protecting Saskatchewan industries from the ongoing threat of tariffs from the Trump administration.

Beck criticizes Sask. Party’s tariff response

Speaking at the Moose Jaw Refinery Partnership on March 6, Beck said Premier Scott Moe and the Sask. Party government have not acted with enough urgency in addressing the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

“The response yesterday that I saw from our premier was weak — a weak response to a trade war that we didn’t start, but (that) we have no intention of backing down from,” Beck said.

Beck argued that the tariffs pose a serious economic threat to the province and called for an emergency session of the legislature to develop a plan to protect Saskatchewan jobs and industries.

“We have people who are worried about their jobs at a time when people are already struggling (with) the cost of living, (and) people (are) concerned about their communities,” she said. “And nowhere to be found was our premier.”

She also called on the two Sask. Party MLAs in Moose Jaw, MLA Tim McLeod and MLA Megan Patterson, to hold a public town hall to address the issue.

“This is a time for action. The Sask. NDP has been proposing action and doing the work for months, both to fight back but also to plan to secure our economic future,” she said.

Sask. Party defends government measures

In response, Tim McLeod, MLA for Moose Jaw North and Minister of Justice and Attorney General, and Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety, dismissed Beck’s criticism and outlined the steps the Sask. Party government has already taken to counteract the impact of tariffs.

“The Saskatchewan government’s response is consistent and aligned with that of all other Canadian provinces,” McLeod said. “These actions will prioritize local and Canadian suppliers in procurement, with the goal of reducing or eliminating U.S. procurement and protecting Saskatchewan jobs, residents, and economic growth.”

McLeod pointed to several key measures announced by the province on March 5, including:

• Pausing all future government capital projects until tender documents can be revised to ensure companies disclose the jurisdiction of their suppliers

• Directing Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) to stop purchasing U.S.-produced alcohol and prioritizing Canadian suppliers for government procurement

• Shifting the $43 million procurement of VLT and slot machines away from U.S. suppliers to other jurisdictions

• Encouraging school divisions, municipalities, and post-secondary institutions to adopt similar policies that prioritize Canadian goods and services

McLeod also accused the NDP of hypocrisy, citing their past opposition to pipeline projects and trade expansion efforts.

“The sudden about-face from Ms. Beck and her NDP caucus is nothing short of hypocritical,” he said. “Unlike the NDP, the Sask. Party government didn’t come to these positions as a result of threats from Don-

ald Trump. These have always been our positions, as they represent what is best for Saskatchewan’s economy, jobs, and families.”

Trade relations and economic diversification

Beck emphasized that Saskatchewan must reduce its reliance on trade with the United States and called for major infrastructure investments to diversify economic ties.

“We cannot be overly reliant on trade with the U.S.,” she said. “I hope things go back to the way that they were, but we can’t be caught in this position again.”

McLeod countered that the province has already been working to expand trade relationships beyond the U.S.

“In February 2025, Premier Scot Moe travelled on two trade missions to engage with Saskatchewan’s counterparts in the United States and Mexico,” he said. “Minister Warren Kaeding also led a delegation to Vietnam and Singapore, and Minister Daryl Harrison travelled to India and the UAE.”

McLeod also highlighted Saskatchewan’s $47.2 billion investment in infrastructure since forming government, including new schools, hospitals, long-term care facilities, and highways.

Ukrainian refugees

Beck also took aim at Trump’s proposal to deport nearly 240,000 Ukrainian refugees from the U.S., urging the Moe government to take a stand and welcome them to the province.

“Saskatchewan has a special relationship… with Ukraine,” she said. “Now is the time to stand up and do what’s right — to be willing to make room in this beautiful province for those who are being treated so terribly by Donald Trump.”

McLeod said the province is open to accepting Ukrainian refugees but noted that immigration policy is a federal responsibility.

“On March 7, 2025, Saskatchewan’s Minister of Immigration and Career Training wrote to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to request that, should the U.S. government decide to revoke the status of Ukrainian refugees residing in the United States, that Canada would consider reopening applications for Canada Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) visas,” he said.

“Saskatchewan is prepared to welcome Ukrainian refugees, as we have throughout this tragic conflict, should Canada allow them access to apply for a CUAET visa.”

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Sask. NDP Leader Carla Beck speaks at the Moose Jaw Refinery on the morning of March 6. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Tim McLeod

‘Chill out in Moose Jaw’: Tariff-inspired video entices American tourists north

The City of Moose Jaw has taken advantage of the economic uncertainties with tariffs by producing a humorous video featuring Mayor James Murdock encouraging Americans to visit the community.

Appearing in his office wearing a “Get a Life” Tshirt, with O Canada playing in the background, Murdock introduces himself and says that his message isn’t a provocation but “an invitation for you, our American friends, to take some time and chill out in Canada’s Most Notorious City.”

The mayor then pitches Moose Jaw’s “legendary underground tunnels,” “incredible hotels and spas,” the “notoriously charming downtown and beyond,” with images of the Tunnels’ Al Capone tour and the Temple Gardens Mineral Spa flashing on screen.

“We’re one of Canada’s top tourism destinations,” Murdock remarked.

The mayor next pitches the community’s affordability, pointing out that the American greenback “is severely trumping” — Trumping? — the Canadian dollar, with an image of the Loonie and a woman holding 18 $1 U.S. bills. This means, he continued, that American tourists can do more shopping in the community’s “wonderful array of unique shops and restaurants.”

The scene cuts to the mayor standing next to a table with munchies such as Old Dutch chips, Kraft Peanut Butter, Hawkins Cheezies and other Canadian-made products. He notes that American tourists would likely have money left over “to splurge on the delicacies you

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

will only find north of what we still call the border.”

“So, if you’re from the Big Apple (New York City), come check out our big moose,” the mayor continued, with the scene showing Murdock standing next to Mac at the tourism office.

“Minot (North Dakota), say why not,” he says, with a map showing the driving distances — about 425.6 kilometres — between the two cities. “Las Vegas? You’ll love what happens here,” he remarks, with a scene showing Casino Moose Jaw, “and you may even want to stay.”

The video then concludes with Murdock sitting in a bathrobe at a spa having a manicure and saying, “So forget about annexation, come for relaxation. Chill out, in Moose Jaw.”

In a news release, the mayor acknowledged that the tariffs that the U.S. is imposing on Canadian goods will likely increase the cost of living across North America. With everyday expenses increasing, he was inviting “our American friends” to visit Moose Jaw where costs were less.

“We’re very concerned about the impact these tariffs will have on Moose Jaw businesses,” he continued. “Tourism contributed $134 million to our economy in 2024, so we produced this video to support one of our biggest sectors.”

Moose Jaw is a “notoriously welcoming” place, while residents and businesses looked forward to showcasing how warm and friendly the community is to visitors, no matter what country they called home, Murdock added.

The city encouraged people to visit www.tourismmoosejaw.com for more information about the community’s attractions, shops and restaurants.

Filming humorous tourism video a new experience for Moose Jaw mayor

Creating a promotional video to encourage tourists — particularly from the United States — to visit Moose Jaw was a new experience for Mayor James Murdock, who joked that acting is not his forte.

“We put some good thought into it, and we thought that, ‘Let’s promote the city in a way that we’re welcoming our American friends that are just south of us across the border (in Montana and North Dakota),’” Murdock said.

“And, at the same time, (we wanted to promote) the city even for residents of the province, just letting everyone know we’re here and everyone is welcome and make Moose Jaw your tourist destination.”

The mayor said it was a “very interesting” experience to stand in front of the camera, as he had never done anything like that before. However, he enjoyed watching the project come together and appreciated the collaboration between city hall and Nebulus Entertainment.

Craig Hemingway, director of strategic growth, developed the video’s concept and worked with filmmaker Jared Robinson to bring it to life, Murdock recalled. It took all three men about six hours to film the video, with most of it shot in the mayor’s office and a

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

couple of scenes in the community.

Other scenes were shot but were left on the cutting room floor.

There is plenty of economic uncertainty happening because of the tariffs that U.S. President Donald Trump is imposing on Canada, so Murdock said he was relying on elected officials at the provincial and federal levels to navigate this situation. Still, this challenge also presented an opportunity to profile the city.

“Communities still have to carry on, and we realized that tourism impacts our local economy quite greatly, and we thought this might be a way to … expand on that even more,” he continued.

“That really is the sole message, (is) come to Moose Jaw,” the mayor stated. “We’re here to show off what we have … for the people who want to make a weekend getaway or extended stays.”

Murdock pointed to the brief period during the coronavirus pandemic when Canadians were forced to travel inside the country since the borders were closed. That time saw an influx of tourists from Saskatchewan and other provinces visit here.

Now, the city and its tourism industry want Americans to come north because of the strong U.S. dollar,

while they also want Canadians to visit because of the weak loonie.

In 2024, the tourism industry in Moose Jaw generated $134 million in revenue, with $18 million coming from outside the country, the mayor said. He expected those numbers to increase this summer with all the activities happening to promote the community.

Asked whether he was worried that the video might antagonize some people because of humorous jokes about the border and annexation, Murdock replied that people “can read into it how they want.”

However, regardless of whether comments are positive or negative, he respects them both and hoped the video made people feel good.

Most feedback has been positive, whether it’s from interviewers or residents saying they appreciate the promotion, he continued. Of note, the City of Minot in North Dakota reached out to discuss the video.

“They are completely ecstatic about what we achieved with that, to the point that they are going to incorporate a message like that to their Canadian friends,” Murdock said, adding that Canadians can be patriotic but should also be welcoming of other citizens.

A screenshot from a YouTube video featuring Mayor James Murdock encouraging American tourists to visit the community. Photo courtesy YouTube

Taxpayers fork over $2 million “hidden taxes’’ to city

Most city taxpayers don’t realize they are paying $2.1 million in what amounts to hidden taxes on their utility bills.

The City of Moose Jaw budget for this year estimates that amount will be collected from the water utility, solid waste utility and the new waste water utility.

The waste water tax will rake in $516,000.

These near secret taxes come from franchise fees charged to taxpayer bills four times a year.

The first two per cent franchise fee in the 1990s on the water utility was expected to collect about $150,000

The city has collected millions over the years.

In private industry franchise fees are common, charged by companies as royalties to a franchise owner for the

right to use the business unit, name and process.

Moose Jaw owns the water utility, so why charge a franchise fee to the taxpayers? Tax grab is why.

Well this is one way of hiding the amount of cash sucked out of taxpayers’ thin wallets.

Not only do these franchise fees hide the actual tax bill, according to the principle of public finances, placing a tax on a tax is no-no. It just doesn’t make sense.

If the franchise fee revenues became property taxes instead of being squirrelled away, property taxes would be 5.4 per cent higher.

Utility bills would fall by two per cent.

The arguments can and should be made to have this amount on the prop-

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.

erty tax bill so taxpayers have a better idea of how much money the city is taking from them.

For various reasons from inflation to past councils’ lack of reserves creation, the city needs the funds it collects.

This year’s tax increases include 3.66 per cent on property, 2.46 per cent on waste water utility, 1.51 per cent for policing, four per cent on water and keeping a $100 infrastructure levy

That amount adds $167 a year for the average household plus the levy which was to end.

The average household is finding the city tax/utility fee burden amounts to a second mortgage payment for many

owners struggling with inflated costs and fixed incomes.

The municipal organizations representing us seem to have given up on the idea of lobbying senior governments for more funding.

An alternate solution to the overtaxing could be establishment of a municipal lottery to raise funds.

In the 1960s a lottery proposal by then Mayor Scoop Lewry was shot down by the courts as the Criminal Code listed lotteries as illegal. Times, the law and public attitudes have changed.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Rising young musicians to take centre stage at upcoming Junior Select concert

Talented young musicians from across the city will take centre stage at the returning Junior Select concert, hosted by the Moose Jaw Band and Choral Boosters this month.

The event will run for approximately 45 minutes starting at 1 p.m. in the Peacock Auditorium on Saturday, March 15.

The concert is free and open to the public, with a silver collection option at the door for residents who wish to donate to the program.

According to Kurt Gillett, chair of the Moose Jaw Band and Choral Boosters, the Junior Select concert is a unique opportunity for young musicians to develop their skills in a collaborative environment.

“The group that’s performing in this year’s Junior Select Band are Grade 7 and Grade 8 students from all over Moose Jaw who were nominated by their band directors…,” Gillett explained.

The Junior Select program is designed to foster leadership and musical growth among students, similar to an honour band experience. Unlike audition-based honour bands, this program allows band directors to nominate stu-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

dents who have demonstrated strong musicianship and leadership potential in their own school ensembles.

“It’s (meant) to help them develop a little bit more, get excited about being in band, and bring that excitement back to their groups,” Gillett said.

This year, students will be led by husband-and-wife duo Tom and Lauren Hearn, two retired band teachers from the Yorkton-Melville area.

“They’re going to come in and do full band rehearsals and co-ordinate some sectional practices, which is

where they split up into their instrument groups,” Gillett explained. “They’re starting on Thursday evening… and they are also meeting all day Friday, and then they have a practice on Saturday morning.”

With only a few rehearsals to prepare — and no previous experience working together as a single group — students will perform a set of five to six songs during the Saturday afternoon concert. The intensity of the short practice schedule is part of what makes the experience both challenging and rewarding.

“Some of these kids got their music maybe in February, (others)… got it near the end of February or in the beginning of March, so they don’t have a ton of time to practice,” Gillett said. “It’s a really intense time that they have together, and then they’re going to put this concert on, (which) puts the pressure on them a little bit.”

In addition to rehearsals, students will have the opportunity to socialize and bond outside of practice. Activities such as bowling and group breaks are included to make the experience enjoyable while also reinforcing teamwork.

“It’s kind of a social thing, but it’s also a learning experience (for these students),” Gillett noted.

This year’s Junior Select program remains largely the same as in previous years, with the notable addition of a Thursday evening rehearsal to provide extra preparation time. Gillett also highlighted the continued support of local sponsors and band directors, who each play a crucial role in making the event possible.

“We’ve had some awesome support for it, and lots of interest with the kids who were nominated. The band directors too, they’re a lot of help and they’re really excited about this event,” he said.

For those interested in supporting future initiatives by the Moose Jaw Band and Choral Boosters, Gillett encourages community involvement and welcomes inquiries. It is through this community support that the program remains open for aspiring young musicians.

To learn more about the program, contact MJBandChoralBoosters@ gmail.com.

A.E. Peacock Collegiate is located at 145 Ross Street East.

Students perform at the 2024 Junior Select concert, led by guest director Mr. Brent Pittman from Saskatoon. Photo by: Submitted photo

Upcoming games

Moose Jaw Warriors get late goal from Brady Ness, go on to win over Regina Pats

Warriors earn second-straight win with 3-2 victory at Moose Jaw Events Centre

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors were on a bit of a roll as of late,against the Regina Pats when Brady Ness scored the eventual game-winning goal with 8:48 to play in the third period and the Warriors rode a solid showing from goaltender Matthew Hutchison to a 3-2 victory at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

The win gives Moose Jaw five of six points in their last three games and see the Warriors improve to 13-41-5-2 and move within five points of Regina for 10th in the Eastern Conference. Regina fell to 15-38-5-3 with their fifth-straight loss.

Max Finley watches as his shot floats into the Regina net for Moose Jaw’s second goal on Friday night.

Moose Jaw improved to 5-0-2 on the season against the Pats with the victory, with the season series wrapping up on Saturday in Regina. That contest takes place at 6 p.m. at the Brandt Centre.

Moose Jaw Warriors turn in commanding performance for win over Regina Pats

Warriors score five straight to take 7-1 victory in Regina for third-straight victory

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors suddenly found themselves playing some of their best hockey of the season, and that turned into a commanding win over the Regina Pats on Saturday night in Regina.

The Warriors had seven different goal scorers and gave the Pats little room to find momentum on their way to a 7-1 victory in Western Hockey League action.

Moose Jaw improved to 14-42-5-2 with their third-straight victory and have closed to within three points of the 10th place Pats in the Eastern Conference. Regina lost their sixth straight and are now 15-38-5-3 on the campaign.

the Regina Pats in Regina on Saturday. Nick Pettigrew

Moose Jaw is back in action Tuesday when they host the Red Deer Rebels, with puck drop at 7 p.m. at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors stay alive in playoffs with win in Game 4

Warriors take 7-1 win over Estevan Great North Bears in Estevan to even series at game apiece

With their season on the line, the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors were able to come through with one of their biggest wins of the campaign on Saturday night in Estevan.

The Warriors scored three goals in each of the first and second periods and would go on to a 7-2 victory over the Estevan Great North Bears in Game 4 of the Sask Male AAA Hockey League quarter-final series.

As a result, the best-of-five series was tied at two games apiece, with the fifth and deciding game taking place

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Monday at the Moose Jaw Events Centre.

The Warriors took a 3-2 victory in the series opener on Mar. 2 in Moose Jaw, but the Bears came back to win 6-1 on Mar. 4 in Estevan before taking the series lead with a 4-3 win back in Moose Jaw on Thursday, setting up Saturday’s contest.

Things were close in the opening period of Game 4, as Marek McIvor, Ryan Gibbs and Keaton Lesperance all scored for the Warriors in the opening frame, with the latter two goals coming

on the power play 1:09 apart late in the period.

Estevan had goals from Brendan Jones and Boston Schmidt, though, and Moose Jaw would take a 3-2 lead out of the opening frame.

The rest of the game was all Warriors, beginning with a three-goal second period that saw Gibbs score his second of the game to go along with single markers from Noah Thul and Kierin Osberg.

Max Fuessel then scored the lone goal of the third period, and the Warriors

had their crucial 7-2 win.

Fuessel, Lesperance and Gibbs all had three points in the contest, while Jonah Pinel and Maxon Johnston added two assists each.

Luke McKechnie stopped 20 shots in the Moose Jaw net to earn the win, while Brady Carr had 24 saves for Estevan.

Game 5 was prior to this week’s Moose Jaw Express deadline, but you can check out SportsCage.com and MooseJawToday.com for up to day results!

The Moose Jaw Warriors scored five straight goals and would go on to a 7-1 victory over

Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet announces line-up, tickets selling quickly

Fundraising event to feature former Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender Grant Fuhr, former Toronto Blue Jays standout Lloyd Moseby, legendary goaltender Curtis Joseph and Saskatchewan Roughriders head coach Corey Mace as special guests Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

After enjoying a record-setting crowd and seeing another wildly successful event in 2024, the Moose Jaw Kinsmen are hoping for an even bigger and better show during their 32nd annual Sports Celebrity Banquet in a little under a month’s time.

The organization recently announced their celebrity line-up for the 2025 event, which will take place on Saturday, April 5 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre -- and it’s once again as starstudded a group as one could hope for.

Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender Grant Fuhr, former Toronto Blue Jays standout Lloyd Moseby, legendary netminder Curtis Joseph and Saskatchewan Roughriders head coach Corey Mace will all act as special guests for this year’s edition of the event.

“We’re really excited about the lineup this year,” said Scott Paquin with the Moose Jaw Kinsmen. “There’s some

The Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet moved to the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre in 2024 and will be returning to the facility after rave reviews.

great players that have done some pretty amazing things back in their day. So it’s great to have a good group of guys coming in.”

Having a line-up of elite former and current athletes and coaches year in and year out isn’t a coincidence, as the Kinsmen work with organizations to find entertaining guests every year.

“We work with some pretty great

event companies,” Paquin said. “One in particular out of Toronto, we have a long-term relationship with them, and they know what our dinner is all about.

“The other thing that we’ve seen over the last couple of years is past guys kind of vouching for our dinner and saying, ‘hey, this is pretty legit’,” Paquin added. “So we’re starting to see a little bit of that spin off as well, where previous celebrities are telling their friends to check us out.”

As is well known, the Banquet acts as the major fundraiser for the Kinsmen and their vast array of support given to local sports organizations. The community has definitely taken note, with the event selling out almost every year and -- most importantly -- bringing in over $100,000 for the local service organization.

“That support is always amazing, and we can’t say enough about how

much we appreciate it,” Paquin said.

The 2025 edition of the event will mark the second year in the Exhibition Centre, and with more than 500 tickets sold last year -- a Banquet record -- the Kinsmen are hoping for a similar number this time around.

Patrons will find a similar format to recent events, including a hot stove conversation with the guests and the always popular live and silent auctions featuring a host of unique items.

Tickets are currently on sale, with two tickets going for $400, a regular table of eight for $1,500 and a corporate table -- featuring a few extra perks and on-site advertising -- runs $2,500.

Cocktails will be a 5 p.m., the program starts at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 6:30 p.m.

Contact Paquin at (306) 314-9108 or Cory Olafson at (306) 631-8893 to order tickets.

Prairie Hockey Academy reaches CSSHL U17 Prep final for second-straight year

Despite entering playoff tournament as 12th seed, PHA advance to championship game before falling to Rink Academy Kelowna Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

It’s become rather apparent over the last couple of seasons that taking Prairie Hockey Academy lightly in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League U17 Prep league championship tournament is something you do at your own peril.

For the second straight season, the Cougars entered the Division I playoffs as one of the tournament’s lowest seeds, and for the second straight season, they advanced all the way to the championship final before falling in the gold medal game.

This time, PHA entered the event ranked 12th overall -- lowest of all Division I teams -- after putting together a 19-15-2 record in the regular season.

Prairie Hockey got off to a great start in round robin action, though, taking a 3-1 win over sixth-seed South Alberta Hockey

Academy and then pulling off a huge upset in their second contest with a 5-1 win over top seed Okanagan Hockey Academy -- a team that had lost only three times in 33 regular-season games.

Things didn’t go as well in their final preliminary round game, where they’d fall 8-2 to Edge School and finish second in their pool.

That was still enough to land PHA in the semifinal, where they’d stun OHA Edmonton with a 5-4 shootout win.

Three straight second period goals gave Edmonton a 3-1 lead midway through the game, but Nixon Friesen would make it a one-goal contest with a power play goal with 5:12 to play in the frame.

Edmonton restored their two-goal lead 24 seconds into third, only for Kade Kah-

ovec to get PHA back within one at the 9:34 mark before Ethan Unger scored the tying goal with 5:11 remaining in regulation.

Overtime solved nothing, and Luke

Pratte and Jamie Kirwan would score in the shootout while PHA goaltender Drake Mooney stopped both shooters he faced, securing the upset win.

Hogan Hickman had PHA’s other goal in the first period.

Unger finished with three points in the game, while Seamus Dillon had two assists.

Things didn’t go as well in the final, as Rink Academy Kelowna took a 1-0 edge out of the first period and held that lead until the third, when they scored two goals in the first 4:09 to go up 3-0.

Dillon got one back with 10:45 to play, but that’s as close as Prairie Hockey would get, and Kelowna would add an empty netter with 1:40 to play.

Mooney stopped 46 shots in the loss.

Former Moose Jaw competitor Ackerman wins second-straight provincial mixed curling championship

Defending champs take 8-4 win over Garrett Springer in gold medal game Sunday in Melville Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Former Moose Jaw competitor Ackerman wins second-straight provincial mixed curling championship

Defending champs take 8-4 win over Garrett Springer in gold medal game Sunday in Melville

Regina’s Jason Ackerman foursome are once again provincial mixed curling champions.

Ackerman and his Regina Highland foursome of third Robyn Silvernagle, second Samuel Wills and lead Colleen Ackerman took an 8-4 win over Regina’s Garrett Springer in the championship final on Sunday afternoon in Melville. It’s the fifth title for the two Ackermans, who also won in 2010, 2012, 2019 and 2024. Silvernagle and Wills both win their second mixed championship after also winning alongside Jason and Colleen last season.

Ackerman began his winning ways as part of a pair of provincial junior men’s champions out of the Hillcrest Sports Centre in the late 90’s, playing third for Joel Jordison’s Saskatchewan champs in 1996 and winning again with Steven Scott in 1999. Ackerman went unbeaten on his

The Central Butte U11 Flyers Win League Championship

Submitted

way to the A final of the triple-knockout draw, but would run into Springer for the first of three times on the weekend, dropping a 6-4 decision.

They’d rebound quickly after dropping to the B final, where Ackerman would take a 5-4 win over Fox Valley’s Carl deConinck Smith to advance to the playoff round.

There, Ackerman would face Springer, third Jill Springer, second Drew Springer and lead Chantel Martin in the Page Playoff 1-2 game and would again come up short, giving up three in the sixth and another in the seventh on their way to a 9-4 loss.

That dropped Ackerman into the semifinal against Regina’s Tyler Hartung, where they’d build a 6-1 lead

through four ends and go on to a 7-3 win to advance to the gold medal game against Springer.

As it turns out, the third time was the charm for the defending champs, as after giving up one in the first, Ackerman would score three in the second, steal two in the third and another in the fourth to build a 6-1 lead. Springer got two back in the fifth, but Ackerman replied with a deuce of his own in the sixth, and after Springer was held to one in the seventh, the teams shook hands.

Ackerman -- who won the national title in 2012 and was the runner up in 2024 -- will now represent Saskatchewan at the Curling Canada championship in Assiniboia beginning Nov. 2.

The Central Butte Flyers won the FVHL League Championship on Saturday, March 1st in Central Butte.

Regina’s Jason Ackerman foursome picked up their second straight Curl Sask provincial mixed championship on Sunday afternoon in Melville.

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Letters to the EDITOR

for MJ Express

Re: Signed, Sealed and Delivered

On the 6th day of November 2024, I sent a complaint letter to Moose Jaw Housing Authority stating that I have the following complaint/concerns: Physical Intimidation, Verbal Intimidation, and behavior expressed by one tenant.

In the letter I said, “To resolve my concerns, I would like you to do the following: This individual must be removed from Regal Villa, a Moose Jaw Housing complex. The residents have endured this unacceptable burden for several years. I am sending this complaint letter on behalf of the residents who feel unsafe and very frightened. I emailed the complaint letter to the attention of the Chief Ex-

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.

ecutive Officer.”

The afternoon of November 6th, 2024, I received a reply note from the Chief Executive Officer stating that, unfortunately they needed more information to proceed and they require that to do an investigation.

They said, “I would suggest that anyone who has felt unsafe to individually call in to make a complaint. I cannot take secondhand information/ hearsay.

I need to stress that if anyone has felt any physical or verbal intimidation or behavior that they call Moose Jaw City police immediately and then contact Moose Jaw Housing Authority to file a complaint. As you know, we do have a process

• 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

that we follow when we receive complaints, and to the best of our ability, we rectify any situations.”

November 2024 and December 2024 passed, and on January 13, 2025, after this behavior had continued, five women who are all physically disabled, some from birth, with ages ranging from 50 to 79, wrote out their complaint letter, some 4 pages long, each signed their complaint letter and placed it in a white envelope, sealed it with their name and apartment number. These five letters were then placed in a large brown envelope and hand-delivered to Moose Jaw Housing Authority. There was no HEARSAY, EACH WOMAN TOLD THEIR OWN STORY.

Today is March 5, 2025, and to this date, not one of their letters has received a reply. So today, I am HERE TO SAY Regal Villa has a beautiful setting outside, but when you come through the doors, it i(seems to be) a living NIGHTMARE

In closing, here is a quote from Gandhi: YOU MUST BE THE CHANGE YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD.

These five women are standing together; they must be the change they wish to see in the changes that Moose Jaw Housing must make to make them safe in their home.

SIGNED, SEALED, AND DELIVERED

Linda Morgan

Newcomer Welcome Centre offers affordable driver education program for new residents

The Moose Jaw Newcomer Welcome Centre is launching its annual Newcomer Driver Education Funding (NDEF) program, aimed at helping new residents gain essential driving skills and improving their employability.

The program is open to newcomer residents within certain household income parameters. The first classroom session is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, followed by a police and SGI information session on Wednesday, April 30. Following the course, in-car training sessions have to be individually booked.

Applications are open until Friday, March 21, and require a $150 fee to participate.

Melissa Mitchell, manager of the Newcomer Welcome Centre, said the program provides financial assistance for newcomers looking to obtain a Saskatchewan driver’s license, which can often be a costly process.

“We’ve been running this Newcomer Driver Education Funding program

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

— we call it NDEF — for quite a few years now,” Mitchell said. “We receive funding through the province of Saskatchewan, through our regular program funding, and sometimes we (also) get grants from, say, SGI as well.”

The program covers the cost of a mandatory six-hour in-class and sixhour in-car driving course.

“The program is there to help educate newcomers to make them more employable,” Mitchell said. “Once they cross that barrier of getting a driver’s license, it can be quite expensive (to fully earn your licence) — over $800 or so.”

The number of available openings varies each year based on the amount of funding received by the Newcomer Welcome Centre.

“There is an application process, and then we have spots anywhere from eight to 12 participants, depending on funding,” she said. “We’re looking at eight to 10 (openings) this year.”

In addition to driving instruction,

the program includes partnerships with the Moose Jaw Police Service and SGI to offer presentations on road rules, insurance, and accident procedures.

“We want (our drivers) to be as educated as possible and understand all as-

pects of driving when they go through this program,” she said.

A new addition to this year’s program is a vehicle maintenance course in partnership with Moose Jaw Toyota, aimed at educating participants on vehicle maintenance in Saskatchewan’s climate. Given that many newcomers arrive from warmer climates, Mitchell said any differences in routine maintenance planning will be addressed.

“We’re happy to partner with additional dealerships or auto body shops (for this program in the future),” she said, noting that any interested businesses can simply reach out for more information.

Interested applicants can visit the Newcomer Welcome Centre to pick up an application form and will receive assistance with the registration process if needed.

The Newcomer Welcome Centre is located at 432 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-692-6892.

Serving Moose Jaw and Surrounding area for over 15 years

Survey Says Charity Challenge raises funds, awareness for local non-profits

The Survey Says Charity Challenge fundraiser at Casino Regina’s Show Lounge brought an evening of fun, friendly competition, and significant support for non-profits, including the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank, Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. (MJFS), and four Reginabased organizations.

The event, held on March 4, featured six charities competing in a Family Feud-style game show, with more than $30,000 in prizes awarded to participants. While Moose Jaw’s representatives may not have taken home the grand prize, both organizations walked away with $2,500.

MJFS Executive Director Tara Jones was eager to take part, viewing it as a valuable opportunity to both fundraise and connect with the community.

“We just want people to know who we are, what we do, and how we can support them,” Jones said. “This was really great. Getting to be on the game show and winning $2,500 means that we can continue our mission.”

Jones represented MJFS on stage while staff member Rebecca Lesaux attended an information booth to engage with attendees.

Proceeds will enhance MJFS’s range of community programs, including counselling, family supports, diversion programs, parenting resources, independent living skills training, and recently added sand tray and play-based therapy options.

Proceeds will also contribute to MJFS’s new capital campaign aimed at securing a larger, more functional space to accommodate clients as the demand for services continues to grow.

fare as well as we had hoped…,” Moore admitted. “But, even (then), the casino was very generous, and the consolation prize was still $2,500, which will help us throughout this year.”

Despite the outcome, proceeds will support the food bank’s upcoming food delivery service for individuals with mobility issues, set to launch around the end of March. “The casino already gave us $25,000 for that, so this additional $2,500 will go towards that project as well,” Moore said, adding that “We’ve applied for a grant to purchase an additional vehicle to help us out with deliveries and pickups” as well.

The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank also competed with representation from Toni Aquino, its marketing specialist and event planner, and volunteer Cheantelle Fisher, a former food bank employee.

“We had representatives from our food bank down there, and we had a table set up outside so we could interact with guests,” explained Jason Moore, executive director of Moose Jaw’s food bank.

Moore emphasized the ongoing support from Casinos Regina and Moose Jaw, which have made a significant difference in the food bank’s ability to serve the community.

“The casino has been a longtime supporter of the food bank (since around) 2019,” Moore noted. “Every year, they’ve supported us with a generous donation, but this year, they really upped the game.

“In the past, we were looking at around $5,000 donations, and some-

times $10,000,” he said. “This year, they came to us after they heard about our situation this past summer with the number of food bank visits rising. They said, ‘What more can we do?’ So we sat down and chatted, and Jamie Slawson and I hashed out the details.” Slawson is the community relations manager for SaskGaming.

Each charity was paired with randomly selected audience members to compete in the game. “Our team didn’t

Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. is located at 200 Main Street South and can be reached at 306-694-8133. For more information visit MJFamilyServices.ca or ‘Moose Jaw Family Services Inc.’ on Facebook.

The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West and can be reached at 306-6922911. For more information, visit MJFoodBank.org or ‘Moose Jaw and District Food Bank’ on Facebook.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Toni Aquino, the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank’s marketing specialist and event planner, accepts the $2,500 prize following the Survey Says Charity Challenge fundraiser at Casino Regina on March 4.

Photo by: Moose Jaw and District Food Bank

Tara Jones (right), executive director of Moose Jaw Family Services Inc., and her game show team accept the $2,500 prize following the Survey Says Charity Challenge fundraiser on March 4. Photo by: Casinos Regina & Moose Jaw

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Ingredients come together to make salads for sharing

Homemakers invited to contribute salads or special dishes for a pot luck buffet dinner are often befuddled over what would make a suitable salad or casserole for sharing.

A cookbook published 25 years ago with proceeds going to Rotary International offers a wide variety of recipes suitable for sharing among friends and strangers. Two of those salad recipes are featured this week.

•

PEA SALAD

6 cups Sweetlets tiny peas

6 eggs, hard boiled and sliced

1 large purple onion, thinly sliced and chopped

Dressing:

1 1/4 cups sour cream

1 1/4 cups mayonnaise

1 tbsp. dill weed

1 1/2 tbsps. chives

1 tbsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. curry powder

3 tbsps. lemon juice

salt and pepper to taste

Blanch peas by pouring boiling water over them in a medium bowl. Let set for a minute to two minutes. Drain and set aside. When cool, add chopped eggs and chopped onion.

To make dressing, combine all ingredients and refrigerate for 2 hours.

At least two hours before serving, add dressing ingredients to the pea and egg mixture and carefully blend. Refrigerate again until serving time. Salad may be decorated with sliced hard boiled eggs and tiny tomatoes. This makes a salad suitable for a buffet table or pot luck dinner.

• • •

CRAB MACARONI SALAD

3 cups cooked and cooled macaroni shells

4 green onions, chopped 4 eggs, hard boiled, chilled and chopped 1/2 cup shredded carrots

Salad Dressing:

3 tbsps French dressing

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

2 cans crab meat

1 can small shrimp

1/4 tsp. garlic powder

3/4 cup salad dressing

1 tsp. salt

1 cup finely diced celery

1/2 tsp. pepper

In a large bowl place cooked macaroni, chopped onions, eggs and carrots.

Mix all dressings and spices together. Toss into macaroni mixture. Mix in crab and shrimp and diced celery.

Place in refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving. This makes a large salad suitable for a pot luck event.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel. net

Moose Jaw’s food bank braces for a tough year as economic pressures mount

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is bracing for a challenging year ahead as demand for its services continues to rise alongside the national trend of increased food bank usage — and an added uncertainty about the economic ramifications of U.S. tariff policies.

According to Food Banks Canada, January and February have already shown higher-than-average numbers for food bank visits across the country — a trend that Jason Moore, executive director of the Moose Jaw Food Bank, expects to impact the local economy in the coming months.

“I know that this year is going to be really challenging — maybe even more so than past years,” Moore said. “We are seeing our food depleting rapidly (and) faster than last year, as numbers continue to rise… Food Banks Canada is preparing for (the) worst and is suggesting that our numbers are going to go up even higher than expected.”

Moore pointed to the rising cost of groceries and housing as two key factors driving the increased need for food assistance, and recent tariffs on imported and exported goods are expected to add

further pressure.

“Housing issues play a big part in that too, because if your rent is higher, then you’re picking, ‘Do I have a place to live, or do I have food to eat?’ And usually, a roof over your head will win… so pressure is then put on food banks to meet that demand.”

While the full impact of recent tariffs has yet to hit the economy, Moore explained that the food bank has seen an unusual, short-term benefit — an influx of donations from local grocery stores as they pull American goods from their shelves.

“The only thing we have noticed (so far)… is that we’ve started to receive more donations from our grocery stores… rather than garbage (food items), they’re donating them to the food bank,” he said.

However, Moore emphasized that this unexpected boost will not last long.

“That will be short-lived, because once those products are off the shelves, (these retailers) won’t be purchasing more American products until… new trade deals are put in place, or until tariffs are lifted,” he said.

In addition to rising demand, the

an uncertain year as economic pressures continue to mount in

food bank could also face decreased donations if the anticipated economic downturn affects those who typically support the organization most.

“Our community has been exceptional at supporting this… food bank for 40 years,” Moore said. “That said, when the economy is in crisis, it affects everybody, and so those who are able to donate a lot may find themselves in a situation where they can’t donate as much.

“As visits increase and donations drop, then we have to find some way to pick up that slack, so that we’re still able

to provide a service to people in need,” he added.

To address the anticipated challenges, Moore said the food bank is exploring creative solutions and is working closely with Food Banks Canada and government partners to secure additional resources.

Despite the uncertainty ahead, Moore remains hopeful that a solution will be found.

“There are nights where I’m not sleeping great,” he admitted, adding that “we may be struggling to (continue helping those in need)… but it’s also a challenge, and I’m up for it.”

One plan he currently has in the works is the addition of a summertime fundraising campaign to support the food bank during its slowest time of the year for donations.

“We’re hoping for the best but preparing for the worst,” he said.

For more information, including how to donate or access services, visit MJFoodBank.org or call 306-692-2911.

The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West.

Jason Moore, executive director of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank, said he’s preparing to face

2025. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Moose Jaw Family Services plans expansion to meet growing client needs

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. (MJFS) is seeking to expand into a larger facility as the non-profit organization experiences a growing demand for its services in the community.

The organization, which has operated from its current location at 200 Main Street South for approximately three decades, is now in the early stages of launching its capital campaign to fund the move. This search is driven by the need to provide a more efficient and comfortable environment for both staff and clients.

Tara Jones, executive director of MJFS, said the organization’s increased workload has outgrown its current facility.

“Our building has served us very well for a really long time, but we’re just outgrowing our space,” Jones said. “We’re at a point where we’re sharing offices, and it’s kind of like playing musical chairs a lot of the time… It’s hard to assign spaces because there isn’t enough anymore.”

The non-profit currently has approximately 17 family support workers who share a single office space, with up to six staff members working in the same room at any given time. While the collaborative environment does have its advantages, Jones acknowledged that the lack of dedicated space presents challenges.

“There are some positives — our workers are able to work together, bounce ideas off each other, and support each other — but it can be pretty distracting sometimes and hard to get things done the way they need to,” she said.

“A bigger space would allow everyone to have their own dedicated work area, and that will translate to our clients knowing which room they’ll be coming to and feeling more comfortable in that space.”

Proceeds from recent fundraisers, including a $2,500 prize from the Survey Says Charity Challenge hosted by Casinos Moose Jaw and Regina on March 4, are being directed towards this capital campaign.

The organization is also planning an

Inc. has been located in its current location at 200 Main Street South for around three decades, and is now looking to expand to a larger facility to accommodate a growing number of clients. Photo by: Aaron Walker

upcoming “All Amped Up” concert fundraiser on Saturday, April 12 at the Mae Wilson Theatre.

“’All Amped Up’ is going to be a super fun evening,” Jones said. “We have two really amazing bands — The Montagues and The Bromantics — bringing lots of energy. It’s just going to be a really great time.”

Jones emphasized that raising awareness about the services offered by MJFS is equally important as securing additional funding.

“For us, getting out and letting people know who MJFS is and about the services that we provide, (notably through events like the recent Survey Says Charity Challenge and ‘All Amped Up’) — that’s a win for us,” she said. “We just want people to know who we are, what we do, and how we can support them.”

MJFS provides a wide range of support services to individuals and families, including a team of professional counsellors, family support programs, and community outreach initiatives aimed at enhancing overall well-being.

Tickets for “All Amped Up” are available now and can be purchased at the Mae Wilson Theatre box office at 217 Main Street South or MooseJawCulture.ca.

For more information about Moose Jaw Family Services Inc., its capital campaign, and how to help out through donations, partnerships, or sponsorships, visit MJFamilyServices.ca or call 306-694-8133.

Moose Jaw Family Services

Public Library announces program options and events for March

The Moose Jaw Public Library has announced its upcoming program options for readers, gamers, and lovers of a good read throughout the month of March.

Movie club

The library’s movie club meets twice monthly to watch a film and engage in short discussion starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.

• Black Orpheus: Showed on March 3.

• Viewer’s Choice: Viewers are called to vote for a movie of their choosing with voting opening up on March 3 and closing on Monday, March 10. Show date: Monday, March 17.

• Snowpiercer: This English-language debut of Korean filmmaker Bong Joon-ho’s film is described as “an intense and incisive thriller on dystopian class struggle.” Show date: Monday, March 31.

The library’s Documentary Night showcases documentary films that rarely hit theatres and takes place on the last Thursday of each month starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.

• Four Daughters: Kaouther Ben Hania’s Four Daughters is described as “a boldly experimental record of a family tragedy, the social structures around it, and the basis of radicalization.” Show date: Thursday, March 27.

A few movie matinees will be shown for audiences of all ages in the library’s theatre starting at 2:30 p.m. Admittance is free and everyone’s welcome.

• Piece by Piece: Saturday, March 8 (rated PG).

• The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy: Saturday, March 22 (rated PG).

Maker nights

Maker nights provide an evening dedicated to learning and creating with others. Register by calling 306-6928210. The program runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room for ages 13 and up.

• Maker night: Guests will learn about needle felting on Monday, March 17. Advance registration is required.

• Teen Makers: Guests will create LEGO Spike Prime projects on Wednesday, March 5.

• Maker Saturdays: Guests made cardboard loom bracelets on March 1, and will make little bits and snap circuits on Saturday, March 15, and will do scratch programming on Saturday, March 29. Advance registration is required. Children’s programming

LEGO Weekends: Are open for ages four and up during the library’s regular business hours on Saturdays and Sundays. In this self-guided activity in the Children’s Department, children can have fun building wild LEGO creations that they’re invited to put on display. Children’s Storytime programs run on separate days in the Children’s Program Room starting at 10:30 a.m. Here, young readers can enjoy a short story, rhymes, and songs as caregivers learn ways to improve early childhood literacy.

• Baby Storytime: Tuesday, March (4), 11, 18, and 25.

• Preschool Storytime: Wednesday, March 5, 12, 19, and 26.

• Daycare Storytime: Thursday, March 6, 13, 20, and 27. Be sure to check out Tumblebooks for Kids featuring an online collection of animated, talking picture books to teach children the joys of reading in the Digital Library.

Stand alone events

• Freedom to Read Week: The library encouraged Canadians to think about and reaffirm their commitment to intellectual freedom with a display of several banned books from Feb. 23 until March 1. Look for further details in a separate article in this edition of the Express

• St. Patrick’s I Spy Bottles: Explore and develop literacy skills with your child through a St. Patrick’s Day-themed event in the Children’s Program Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 8.

• Rainbow in a jar: Guests will make a rainbow salt jar in the Children’s Program Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 22. This is intended for ages two and up.

• Kids Collection: Talk to the library’s staff about digital resources available to children of all ages at the MJPL.

Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. in the South Meeting Room.

• Upcoming chess games: Sunday, March (2), 16, and 30.

Magic the Gathering is held on Saturdays at 2 p.m. in the Reading Room. No registration is required, and all experience levels are welcome.

• Magic the Gathering: Saturday, March (1), 8, 15, 22, and 29.

Youth programming

The library’s Teen Anime+ Club meets every fourth Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 to watch anime, read manga, draw, chat, and eat Asian snacks. Anyone ages 12 to 19 is welcome to attend in the library’s theatre and yes — cosplay is welcome.

• Next Anime+ meeting: Featuring “Seirei Gensouki: Spirit Chronicles” on Wednesday, March 26.

The Teen Arts & Crafts program takes place once a month for youth ages 12 to 19 and runs 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room. The program features art, crafts, snacks, and the chance to meet new friends.

• Pony bead pets: Wednesday, March 19.

The Teen Gamers program provides an evening of video, card, and board games for youths ages 12 to 19. The program is held once a month in the Herb Taylor room with snacks provided from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and no registration is required.

• Next Teen Gamers meeting: Wednesday, March 12. Kanopy

You’re invited to celebrate global cinema with “Around the World: A Celebration of World Cinema” available on the Kanopy app. Hoopla

Patrons are invited to discover new skills and spark imaginations with the “Craft and Create” collection, available on the Hoopla app with a valid library card.

Regular events

The Moose Jaw Chess Club provides bi-weekly chess games every second

Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is typically played from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Archives Room and players ages 12 to 16 across all experience levels are invited.

• Digital D&D: Will take place Fridays on the youth Discord channel for ages 16 to 25 from 4 to 6 p.m. Email Youth@MJLibrary.ca to inquire.

• D&D: Rise of the Elements: Group one will meet on Tuesdays from Feb. 4 to Mar. 25 starting at 7 p.m., and group two will meet on Thursdays from Feb. 6 to Mar. 27 starting at 7 p.m. Registration is required. Tech Time: Classes provide one-on-one instruction for modern-day electronic devices and are available by calling the library.

Library of Things

The MJPL offers more than just books, including a telescope kit, radon testing kit, SaskBats bat detector kit, C-PEN Readers for patrons with varying abilities in reading print, and more through its Library of Things collection. Ask a staff member at the front desk for more information.

French-language programs

L’heure du conte is a French-language program for children ages five and under with their caregivers. The program is held in the Children’s Room starting at 10:30 a.m.

• L’heure du conte: Took place on March 1.

The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and can be reached online at MooseJawLibrary.ca, by calling 306-692-2787, or by emailing Ask@ MJLibrary.ca. It’s advisable to check the library’s Facebook page for updates as programs are subject to possible cancellations or rescheduling.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The view from the second floor of the Moose Jaw Public Library’s rotunda.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

Western Development Museum announces March program options

Moose Jaw’s branch of the Western Development Museum (WDM) has announced its lineup of programs for March as regular programming resumes. Upcoming events

• Thunder Creek Model Train Show: The returning train show features various displays from hobbyists across the Prairies and includes a cash-only onsite concession. Regular museum admission fees apply. This will take place on Saturday, March 22, and Sunday, March 23, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the museum. Seek and find

The museum regularly holds seek and find events to encourage interactive learning. The program includes an activity sheet, and visitors search the galleries for clues on interpretive signs or display cases. Check the museum’s website for updates.

• Women in History seek and find: Guests can explore 100 years of local history and learn about some of the contributions women made to Saskatchewan’s past from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 1 to 31.

• Diamond seek and find: The WDM celebrated 75 years of operation on April 2, 2024. Guests can now search the museum for 12 hidden diamond images to commemorate this milestone, as diamonds traditionally symbolize 75-year anniversaries. This will run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

March 1 to 31.

Courses and workshops

The museum offers seasonal educational courses that teach skills ranging from blacksmithing to steam traction engine operation, with certificates typically awarded upon completion.

• Upcoming courses: An introductory blacksmithing course is being offered at the corporate office in Saskatoon for $525 for participants aged 16 and over. The course is fully booked but you can join a cancellation waiting list by contacting the museum. There will be one final intake for the waiting list on Friday, March 7.

K+S Short Line 101

To showcase the raw power of steam energy, the WDM showcases its fully operational K+S Potash Canada Short Line 101 steam train each summer and guests can catch a ride on a piece of Saskatchewan’s history. Operating since 1978, this is Saskatchewan’s only operational steam locomotive.

• Upcoming train schedule: The Short Line 101 has concluded its runs for the winter season.

Reminiscence Kits

The museum’s Reminiscence Kits are meant to bring generations together and ignite new friendships through the sharing of memories. These kits, containing everyday artifacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, can be rented by care homes and other organizations

for two weeks at a cost of $75, with an additional $25 fee for a one-week extension. Visit WDM.ca/Reminiscence to book your kit.

Teacher resources

Teachers can access a variety of resources, including information packages and field trip arrangements at the WDM. Visit WDM.ca/MooseJaw/Learn/For-Teachers for more information.

History album

The museum’s history album tells Saskatchewan’s story through the experiences of families, small towns, and community organizations across the province. To view the album, visit SaskHistory.ca.

Birthday parties

The museum may just be the perfect venue for your child’s upcoming birthday party. For a fee of only $200, children ages five to eight can experience

a two-hour transportation-themed party and up to seven friends are included in the price. You can book by calling the museum.

Volunteering

The WDM is always looking for volunteers to help make programming, summer events, and numerous specialized roles at the museum possible. During regular volunteer intakes, volunteer co-ordinator Alexis Jones will give a facility tour, review safety protocols, and match opportunities to volunteers’ skills and interests.

• Next volunteer orientations: Contact Alexis Jones at 306-6935989 for more information.

The WDM is the largest human history museum in Saskatchewan and features a collection of over 75,000 artifacts across four locations. The Moose Jaw branch specializes in the history of transportation.

The museum’s winter hours are in effect and the museum and gift shop will remain open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. excluding Mondays and statutory holidays when the WDM will be closed. For more information, visit WDM.ca/ Moose-Jaw or reach out to Alexis Jones, the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-693-5989 or by email at AJones@wdm.ca

The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.

The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Ag companies join forces to diversify supply chains and grow Prairie economy

A Saskatoon-based agriculture company that plans to construct a nitrogen fertilizer production plant near Moose Jaw has joined forces with another ag business to diversify supply chains and reduce transportation expenses.

Agricultural producers on the Prairies will likely benefit from a collaboration between Genesis Fertilizers Limited Partnership (GF) and Arctic Gateway Group (AGG), which announced recently that they will focus on cutting fertilizer import and export costs, improve supply chain reliability and expand market reach.

The companies said they signed a letter of intent to establish a framework of co-operation to enhance business opportunities and facilitate the development of efficient logistical and supply chain issues. The letter also said that they intend to “seek mutually beneficial new import and export shipments in 2025 and beyond.”

Furthermore, Genesis Fertilizers and AGG said they will co-operate to find and import phosphate and ammonium sulphate supplies from international vendors to use as feedstock — current

By MooseJawToday.com staff

feedstock supplies come from the United States — for the products that GF plans to produce at its proposed nitrogen fertilizer plant at Belle Plaine.

Moreover, the two businesses plan to distribute such supply domestically through the Port of Churchill in Manitoba and GF’s planned SuperCentre distribution network across Western Canada.

“This new collaboration with AGG is a significant step forward for Genesis Fertilizers and is made possible by the substantial work AGG has done to strengthen the efficiency and reliability of the Hudson Bay Railway and grow the capabilities of the Port of Churchill,” said Jason Mann, president/CEO of Genesis Fertilizers.

“With AGG’s reliable port and rail infrastructure, along with the shorter route to world markets offered by Canada’s Arctic trade corridor, we can reduce transportation costs and improve supply chains for both domestic and international markets,” he continued.

“This initiative is further supported by Genesis Fertilizers’ extensive network of global partners … who provide expertise in finance, engineering, and

infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency and strategic growth.”

Chris Avery, CEO of AGG, said, “This collaboration with Genesis Fertilizers speaks to the value AGG can provide to Western Canada’s agricultural and resource industries, which we need more than ever given trade uncertainty with the United States.

“Working together, we can diversify Western Canadian trade routes via the shorter route AGG provides to world markets, and continue to step up and serve Canadian businesses and families with northern import and export optionality,” he added.

AGG said it aims to use Genesis Fertilizers’ transportation and storage abilities to expand its logistical capabilities and grow operations. Moreover, by collaborating on best practices for storage, shipping, distribution, and supply chain management, AGG aims to create operational efficiencies to benefit both organizations.

The companies said this collaboration will increase shipping and rail traffic, optimize the use of AGG’s rebuilt infrastructure, and enable them to es-

tablish a strong new relationship. Both companies also said they are committed to increasing jobs and training for Aboriginal and northern communities through increased economic activity.

Meanwhile, Genesis Fertilizers said it seeks to leverage AGG’s port and rail infrastructure to efficiently link its fertilizer products to important markets and reduce lead times and costs.

“By tapping into new and emerging markets that AGG’s network provides access to, Genesis Fertilizers aims to enhance the growth potential for the plant’s production,” GF said. “The collaboration with AGG will also foster timely delivery and optimized supply chains for fertilizer distribution to both domestic and international markets.”

This collaboration underscores the benefits of farm producers partnering with northern communities and First Nation groups to strengthen Canada’s agricultural resilience, the companies added. By fostering these relationships, producers can contribute to a more stable and sustainable food supply chain, ensuring long-term benefits for all Canadians.

February a gloomy month for home sales in Moose Jaw, data show

February was a gloomy month for home sales in Moose Jaw, as most sales-related categories declined by double-digit percentages, although benchmark home prices jumped by almost 10 per cent, new data show.

There were 28 home sales in The Friendly City last month, compared to 39 units — a drop of 38 per cent — in February 2024, the Saskatchewan Realtors Association (SRA) said.

There were 47 new listings last month, compared to 56 — a drop of 19 per cent — in February 2024. Furthermore, there were 112 units in inventory, compared to 115 — a decrease of three per cent — from the year before. Also, there were four months of supply, compared to 1.8 months — a jump of 55 per cent — and homes spent 49 days on the market.

The benchmark price was $255,100, an increase from $234,692 — a jump of eight per cent — year-over-year. Meanwhile, the average home price was $241,046, which was a decrease from

By MooseJawToday.com staff

$272,382 — a drop of 13 per cent — in February 2024.

“Benchmark price reflects the price of a typical or average home for a specific location. Average and median prices are easily swayed by what is sold in that time frame,” the SRA explained.

“As a benchmark price is based on a typical home, price changes more accurately represent true price changes in the market as it is an apples-to-apples comparison.”

The 10-year averages for February show there are usually 32 home sales, 68 new listings, 208 units in inventory, 7.14 months of supply, 67 days of homes on the market, a benchmark price of $208,800 and an average price of $227,777.

Furthermore, year-to-date (Jan. 1 to Feb. 28), there have been 54 home sales, 93 new listings, 112 units in inventory, 4.13 months of supply, 60 days on the market, a benchmark price of $255,550 and an average price of $234,317.

Meanwhile, 10-year averages for year-to-date data show there are usu-

ally 57 home sales, 132 new listings, 202 units in inventory, 7.56 months of supply, 69 days on the market, a benchmark price of $208,055 and an average price of $223,434.

Provincial data

Saskatchewan reported 986 sales in February, down one per cent yearover-year but above 10-year averages, the SRA said. Despite the slight decline, sales levels remained on pace with 2024.

New listings decreased by nearly 14 per cent year-over-year and were down 29 per cent compared to the 10-year average, the association continued. When paired with near-record demand in 2024 and a strong start to 2025, inventory challenges were worsening in many markets.

“Saskatchewan’s housing market continues to exceed expectations, as February marks 20 consecutive months of above-average sales in our province,” said CEO Chris Guérette. “These figures are even more impressive when you consider how dire the inventory situation has been over this stretch, what we’re seeing right now is unprecedented.”

With just 3,851 units available across the province at month’s end, inventory levels declined by 21 per cent year-over-year and remained nearly 50 per cent below levels seen in the first quarter, the SRA said.

Home prices continue to rise across Saskatchewan, as the province reported a residential benchmark price of $344,700 in February, up from $342,600 in January and nearly five-per-cent higher than February 2024.

“While several external factors are causing economic uncertainty across our nation right now, Saskatchewan’s housing market continues to experience strong demand through the first two months of 2025,” said Guérette.

“Our market has demonstrated resilience through persistent supply challenges, and now we’re adding tariffs to the mix,” she added. “A lot is being thrown at us, but we’re cautiously optimistic that our market will continue to weather this storm.”

accessories on sale now!

Floral demonstration brings springtime cheer to Chateau St. Michael’s residents

As winter gives way to spring, seniors at Chateau St. Michael’s have been enjoying a variety of activities that foster social connection, engagement, and a sense of community.

One such event was a floral demonstration led by Evans Florist owner Tina Cousens, who visited the home for National Florist Day. Her visit brought colour, conversation, and a bit of creativity to residents eager for a taste of spring.

“(Chateau St. Michael’s) usually (has) about 25 or 30 people in there, and they enjoy it,” Cousens said. “They’re always amazed at how fast I can put something together. I talked to them about plants, and I know a lot of them… They’re all the parents of the people you grew up with, or the grandparents of the people you grew up with.”

During her demonstration, Cousens shared insights on floral design, selected different blooms, and discussed the unique varieties available today. For many residents, the event sparked

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

senior homes, including previous visits to Chateau St. Michael’s, as well as Providence Place, West Park Crossing, and Pioneer Lodge. She noted that these visits offer a meaningful break from routine, providing both mental stimulation and social interaction.

“Seniors are always amazed at the variety and colours of flowers now and the different things that we get in, compared to what we used to get when they were buying flowers themselves,” she said.

“I usually bring flowers that they’ve never seen before, so they can see some of the weird stuff that we get in (nowadays).”

Cousens said she is willing to do demonstrations if a venue reaches out

and helps co-ordinate the activity. She mentioned that if someone is interested, they can contact her for more information.

Evans Florist is located at 17 High Street West and can be reached at 306692-1881.

As the weather grows warmer, Chateau St. Michael’s residents will soon be able to enjoy more time outdoors, but for now, these community-led activities continue to provide a warm and engaging way to stay connected.

Chateau St. Michael’s is located at 525 Seventh Avenue Southeast and can be reached at 306-693-2323. For more information about the home, visit ChateauStMichaels.com or find ‘Chateau St. Michael’s’ on Facebook.

memories of their own gardening experiences.

“They like flowers; they like gardens. They have all gardened. We talked about what kind of flowers they grew in their gardens and stuff like that,” she said.

The staff at Chateau St. Michael’s organizes year-round activities for its senior residents.

In February, residents at the home enjoyed a variety of activities aimed at fostering social interaction and engagement as part of regular programming. Notable events included a Feb. 26 Bingo game led by students from Briercrest Christian Academy, and earlier in the month, on Feb. 20, Carousel Riders visited with live goats to give seniors a chance to reminisce about their past experiences on the farm.

Cousens has done similar floral demonstrations at several Moose Jaw

A century of memories: Resident Vern celebrates his 100th birthday at The Bentley

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Family and friends gathered from near and far at Venvi The Bentley in Moose Jaw on March 6 to attend the remarkable 100th birthday celebration for Vern, a resident of the retirement living home.

“What an incredible milestone. Here’s to many more years of love, laughter, and cherished memories,” an official statement from The Bentley reads.

From everyone at the Moose Jaw Express, happy 100th birthday, Vern!

Vern

his

A Chateau St. Michael’s resident meets a goat brought in by Carousel Riders to celebrate National Love Your Pet Day on Feb. 20. Photo by: Chateau St. Michael’s

Tina Cousens (front, left), owner of Evans Florist, visits residents at Chateau St. Michael’s to demonstrate how floral arrangements are made. Photo by: Chateau St. Michael’s

celebrates

100th birthday with a customized cake and a celebration with family and friends at The Bentley on March 6. Photo by: Venvi The Bentley Moose Jaw

Daily Sudoku Puzzles by KrazyDad, March 5, 2025

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

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

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

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

If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.

ANNOUNCE, BLOCK, BOARD, CATALOG, CHAOS, CHEAT CORPORATION, DELL, DETAIL, EARLY, ELECTRIC, FIELD, FLIGHT, FORCE, GIVEN, GRIND, IMPACT, LEVEL, LIBERATE LIVELIHOOD, MERGE, NEEDY, OPPOSITE, PLANE, PLAY, SLEEP, STRUCTURE, TEAR, TREES, VALID, WART, WHEEL, WHIP, WHIRL

ACROSS

1. Roil

5. Inscribed pillar

10. A bushy hairdo

14. Hindu princess

15. Aphorism

16. Sticking point

17. Acculturate

19. Pitch

20. Compete

21. Lacquer ingredient

22. Male monarchs

23. Lands and wealth

25. Sparkle

27. “I agree”

28. Follow too closely 31. Music genre

34. Moon of Saturn

35. Roam

36. Broadcasts

37. Juryman

38. Sell

39. Supersonic transport

40. Discourage

41. Pantywaist

42. Parts of a series

44. Amazement

45. Polite

46. Beer makers

50. Astound

52. Sky-blue

54. Ignited

55. Fern clusters

56. Frenetic

58. Hurt

59. Trifling

60. Bobbin

61. Male deer

62. Twisty turns

63. Rear end DOWN

1. Courageous 2. Haven

3. A picture-in-picture

4. Fifty-two in Roman numerals 5. Grins 6. Fables 7. Test

8. Trial lawyer 9. An uncle 10. Temporary 11. The front of buildings 12. Sounded a bell

13. Is endebted to

18. Distributes

22. Pottery oven

24. Affirmatives

26. Teller of untruths

28. Rubber wheels

29. Sunbathes

30. Countercurrent

31. Bottom

32. A speech defect

33. Nettle rash

34. Tutorships

37. Star Wars knight

38. Scene

40. Peace bird

41. Sugary

43. Fabric stiffener

44. Sets out

46. Mesa

47. Patriarch

48. Angers

49. Flair

50. Snakes

51. Castle defense

53. Pimples

56. Type of primate

57. Chapter in history

CLASSIFIED ADS

205 WANTED

Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-684-1084.

I pay cash for unwanted firearms, 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. Looking for unwanted media records, video games, VHS tapes, CD’s, and stereo equipment. Will pick up, 306-527-7786 or 306631-8399.

work, 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

135 TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

6 metal poles

14’ x 3” heavy wall steel only $100. each, it’s a steal of a deal. Call 306694-1322

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 306-6302268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, form-

Carley’s Cleaning Services for residential, commercial, move outs/ins, insured and bonded, affordable rates, reliable services, discounts for seniors, free quotes call 306-5139999

165 HOUSEHOLD LIKE NEW!! ELEGANT

Selling due to decline in health. Paid $500, looking for reasonable offers. Please call 902840-3202 or email carmankerrannapolis@ gmail.com

160 MISCELLANEOUS

Large number of puzzles, 1000 pcs, like new condition with no pieces missing, $8 each. Heat massage seat pad, $25. Two 2’x4’ decorative drop-in leaded glass, $25/each. Text or call 306-631-3777.

DESIGNER cream-color center table with thick glass top. In perfect condition! Originally bought for $599. Now selling for $150 obo BRAND NEW, NEVER USED! Black 3-seater sofa. Missing one arm. Originally bought for $250. Now selling for $100 obo. CASH ONLY Must pick up! Location: Lynbrook, Moose Jaw S6H 7A9 Call Fatima at 587-438-8558 *with photo*

185 SPORTS

Two weekend passes with 2 tickets for the BTK Men’s World Curling draws 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 beginning April 4th at 9 am, Gold Medal match on April 6th at 3 pm. They are in Section 116, Row 14, seats 12 & 13.

Venvi The Bentley residents help raise over $1K for the food bank

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Residents and staff at Venvi The Bentley in Moose Jaw came together to raise $1,452.25 for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank as part of a Canada-wide donation campaign by Cogir Real Estate, the retirement community’s parent company, on March 3.

“We have, of course, given to the food bank, the Salvation Army, the Shriners, and (other organizations) like that,” said Rodney Bearchell, sales manager at The Bentley. “It was just (another) chance (to support the community) and the residents and I thought it would be a nice thing to do.”

With 107 suites at The Bentley, the contribution was a significant effort for a smaller home and showcased the generosity of its residents.

“(Our) residents, staff, and management team are always ready to step up when it comes to supporting families and people in need in our community,” Bearchell said.

Residents at Venvi The Bentley Moose Jaw hand over a donation of $1,452.25 to Jason Moore, the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank’s executive director on March 3. Photo by: Submitted photo

Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.

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

Intrepid

I have to admit that I am a Star Trek fan. I watched from the beginning in 1966 when Captain Kirk began a five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before. Over the decades the Star Trek universe used the word intrepid to designate starships and classes of space vehicles.

Intrepid was derived from the Latin word intrepidus, meaning fearless. The word was formed by adding the prefix in (meaning not) to trepidus (meaning alarmed). Intrepid has been used in English as a name for sea and space vessels and also describes anyone who ventures bravely into unknown territory. In 1650 the word trepid was used in the English language for fearful. This predates the antonym intrepid by 30 years.

The adjective intrepid is characterized by resolute fearlessness, fortitude, and endurance. Intrepid explorers set out to discover new places and adventures across the seas and mountains of every continent throughout the ages. Despite tariffs being leveled some intrepid Canadians are determined to make the best of it.

The HMS Intrepid was a 64-gun two decker ship of the line in the English navy. Previously she was the French ship Sérieux, captured in 1747, and eventually broken up in 1765.

Intrepid was first used by the United States Navy

in 1798.

The USS Intrepid (CV-11) was an aircraft carrier launched in April 1943. The ship was decommissioned in 1974 and opened as a museum in New York City in 1982, designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Intrepid was the name of the Lunar Module on Apollo 12, landing on the moon in November 1969.

Sir William Samuel Stephenson (1897-1989) was a Canadian soldier, fighter pilot, and spymaster who service as the senior representative of the British Security Coordination for the Western Allies during World War II. His intelligence code name was Intrepid He is considered to be one of the real-life inspiration for James Bond. Ian Fleming once wrote, “James Bond is a highly romanticised version of a true spy. The real thing is... William Stephenson.”

In 1979 Peter Carter directed a three part television mini-series entitled A Man Called Intrepid, starring David Niven, Michael York, and Barbara Hershey.

The premise of the movie is that when Hitler came to power in post-Weimar Germany, a wealthy Canadian industrialist Sir William Stephenson, was approached by the British Prime Minister with an unusual request. Stephenson was asked to use his own money to secretly organize a spy network.

In the Star Trek universe, the Intrepid was constructed and placed into service in 2153 under the command of Captain Carlos Ramirez. The USS Intrepid (NCC-1631) was a Federation Constitution Class starship. The USS Intrepid (NCC-38907) was an Excelsior Class Federation starship that was in service during the mid-24th century, under the command of Captain Drew Deighan.

In the Star Trek: Voyager series the starship was an Intrepid Class commanded by Captain Kathryn Janeway. The Intrepid Class in 2371 represented a departure away from large, complicated vessels toward smaller and more efficient starships.

Synonyms include bold, courageous, dauntless, gutsy, stalwart, and valiant.

TRINITY UNITED CHURCH

Bold means fearless before danger. Canadian politicians presented a bold plan in the face of Trump’s tariffs.

Courageous is having or characterized by mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and to withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. The board made the courageous decision to lead the organization on a new path.

Dauntless implies being incapable of being intimidated or subdued. Many books have been written about dauntless heroes throughout the centuries.

Gutsy suggests marked by courage, pluck, or determination. Although he was small, he was a gutsy fighter.

Stalwart means marked by outstanding strength and vigor of body, mind, or spirit. The third verse of O Canada uses the phrase, “May stalwart sons and gentle maidens rise.”

Valiant is marked by, exhibiting, or carried out with courage or determination. She died last year after a valiant battle with cancer.

Let us hope Canada can be an intrepid nation in the face of rising pressure from Donald Trump.

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.

Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan to help your community for generations to come.

Obituaries /Memorials

Tourism Moose Jaw, DMJA invite community to upcoming Greek Night fundraiser

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Tourism Moose Jaw (TMJ) and the Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) invite the community to indulge in a night of culture and celebration at the upcoming Greek Night Fundraiser on May 10.

Cory Brown

MAY 31ST, 1961 – MARCH 15TH, 2020

Thinking of you on

�e Day You Went Away

Today, like many other days

Brings special thoughts of you

Of happy times we shared And caring things you used to do

And once more, it’s a reminder

That life’s road is sometimes rough

Because the time we shared

Just wasn’t long enough

For you were someone special

Who was thought so highly of

Who’ll always be remembered

With aﬀection, warmth, and love

So, sending thoughts to heaven

On the day you went away

And hope you know you’re missed

More than words could ever say

Loved by, Eldon, Rob, Calder, Kaylee, Dave & Winslow

The annual event is a collaborative fundraiser between the two organizations and is sponsored by the Moose Jaw Funeral Home this year, with proceeds directed toward beautifying Moose Jaw’s downtown core and promoting tourism initiatives within the city.

The fourth annual event will take place at the Moose Jaw Events Centre with cocktails beginning at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m., and Greek dancing at 8 p.m. This will be followed by a dance presentation featuring Wonderland, described as “Saskatchewan’s party band.”

Donna Fritzke, executive director of TMJ, said the event is a chance for the community to enjoy a lively evening while supporting efforts to enhance the city’s charm.

“The funds that are raised are used to beautify our city, and it’s so fun because the money from this celebration and supper helps us do little special things to improve the downtown and promote tourism,” Fritzke said. “Everyone tells me it’s a fabulous time with good food, dancing, and even plate breaking.”

One highlight of the annual event is the return of the traditional Greek custom of breaking plates — one feature that Fritzke said isn’t going anywhere.

“We were trying to find a cost-effective and fun way to include plate breaking, so I started making the plates (myself) at home,” she said, explaining that she’s hand-crafting the plates from plaster of Paris. “It’s been a great creative outlet for me — I’m making 350 plates, so there will be plenty to go around.”

Greek Night will feature a full-course gourmet Greek meal, Greek-themed cocktails at an

onsite cash bar, and live entertainment from Greek band Arkadia and affiliated dancers. The event has drawn significant community interest so far, with only six tables remaining as of March 7.

For the DMJA, previous funds were used to install new Christmas lights in Moose Jaw’s downtown core, along with similar beautification efforts, Fritzke noted.

“We’re looking forward to seeing everyone,” Fritzke said. “It’s a great (way to) to raise extra funds that we can use to promote our beautiful city… it’s a lot of fun, and we’re looking forward to being with everyone and celebrating.”

To purchase tickets, visit TourismMooseJaw.com/GreekNight, or stop by the Tourism Moose Jaw kiosk at 450 Diefenbaker Drive. Each ticket will be entered for a chance to win a grand prize draw for a $7,500 travel voucher to Greece — but act fast, as tickets are selling quickly.

The fundraiser will be held at the Moose Jaw Events Centre, located at 110 First Avenue Northwest.

For more information, contact Tourism Moose Jaw at 306-693-8097.

The Pelican Lake Cowboys wish to thank the following sponsors who helped make our 2024 Trail Ride last fall a great success:

Cowtown Moose Jaw Favel Transport

Parish & Heimbecker

Palliser Plains Co-op

Shand Creek Photography West Star Tack

A special thanks to Bonnie’s Catering for a great meal and to Joly Blu for Saturday nights entertainment.

Thank you as well to all the volunteers who helped make the weekend possible.

Thanks to all for your support and we hope to see you in 2025.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW

If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com

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

STEW SUPPER at Trinity United Church (277 Iroquois St. W) on Saturday, March 15 @ 5pm. For tickets call Gail @ 306-694-0051.

THE SASKATCHEWAN BASEBALL HALL OF FAME, BATTLEORD SK WILL BE CELEBRATING THEIR 40TH ANNUAL INDUCTION IN BATTLEFORD ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 16, 2025. IF YOU KNOW ANYONE IN YOUR AREA THAT YOU FEEL SHOULD BE CONSIDERED, PLEASE SEND IN A NOMINATION. NOMINATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL MARCH 15, 2025. PLEASE CONTACT THE SASKATCHEWAN BASEBALL HALL OF FAME AT 306 446 1983 OR saskbaseballmuseum@ sasktel.net for more information.

Moose Jaw Motorcycle Swap Meet will be held on Saturday March 15 @12noon-5pm At the Convention Centre South - Exhibition Grounds. Admission $5.

March 15th from 9am-4pm in the Community Hall featuring collectibles, tools, records, jewelry, baking, and more! Contact Buck @ 306-681-94f42 for more information or table rental. Homemade lunch and coffee available

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 306693-4700.

Superannuated Teachers of Sask. Moose Jaw Branch (STSMJ) Meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 19 Luncheon from10:30 – 11:00 Coffee Chat - circulate and connect with past colleagues/11:00 –11:30 Program: STS Provincial President Sue Amundrud/11:40 – 12:30 Dinner: Roast Beef, Caterer: Charlotte’s 12:35 -1:15 Meeting, for those of you who wish to stay. Cost: $15per STS member and spouse. $25.00 for non-members. Please RSVP to Rosalie by Friday, March 14, 2025, @ 306-691-0696, email stsmoosejaw@gmail.com, or click on the link in your latest STSMJ Newsletter. (If you haven’t received your newsletter please check your junk/spam mail or, follow the directions on www.stsmoosejaw.com The Moose Jaw Art Guild business meeting will be held on Thursday, March 20, at 3pm at the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery. For information call 306-6926667.

Fellowship Musical Revue will take place Sunday, March 23 at Timothy Eaton Gardens at 510 Main St. N. Doors open at 12:30 p.m. and the variety concert will begin at 1 p.m. Admission is $8 at the door. The concert is sponsored by Friends of the Forces Fellowship and will feature eight acts from the city and 15 Wing. The program will include Capt. Rich MacDougall, Cornerstone Vocal Jazz Choir, Cadet Joaquin Tyrie, Roger Blager, Doug and Heather Shepherd, Metis dancer Wayne Fisher, Dr. Norvin Tangjerd and Kelly Sapergia. Refreshments will be included in the price of admission. There will also be a 50-50 draw and penny parade. Further information is available by calling 306-692-7357. Cosmo’s Crafts and Trade Fair at the corner of 3rd Ave NE and Fairford St will be held on Saturday, April 5 th from 9am-3pm. Vendors will be selling jewellery, candles, homemade cards, pictures & paintings, books, towels, stuffies, toys, scrapbooking, knitted and

crocheted crafts and delicious homemade baked items. Mary Kay, Fifth Avenue Jewellery, Watkins and Avon representatives will be at the Fair. For those looking for Easter Baskets there will be some for kids which will have toys and along with other baskets with chocolates. As we cannot forget the adults, there will be coffee and tea baskets as well to purchase. The Concession will be open and 50/50 tickets will also be sold.

1975 AE Peacock High School 50th Reunion June 13 &14, 2025 - 1975 AE Peacock 50th Reunion: Alumni and Friends. We are looking for former classmates and friends from 1975, and the years surrounding our time at Peacock High School. Email our celebration committee for more information, peacock1975reunion@gmail. com Please include your name and email address. 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.

The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 7 pm at St Andrews Church until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects.

New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw “The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@hotmail.com

The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will resume meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The first meeting will be at 6:30pm, in Lindale School staff room, 1322 11th Avenue NW (north entrance). Phone 306693-5705 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 oncea-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 online 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

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) offers meetings every Wednesday evening too in the Alliance Church located at the corner of 9th Ave NE and Thatcher Dr. Use the West side entrance and you’ll find us down the hall in room 107. Weigh ins are 6:30-7 followed by a half hour meeting. Scale weighs up to 500lbs. Join us as we support each other on our weight loss journeys. Visit www. tops.org for more information.

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:

DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring daycare providers!

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring adults!

LEGO WEEKENDS! Every Saturday and Sunday Open hours in Children’s Department for ages 4-12 selfguided activity

TUMBLEBOOKS FOR KIDS Available in the Digital Library; TumbleBook Library online collection of animated, talking picture books which teach young children the joys of reading in a format they’ll love. The site also includes chapter books, non-fiction books, graphics novels & more!

OUTH PROGRAMMING:

DIGITAL D&D Fridays 4-6pm - MJPL Youth Discord Channel for ages 16-25. Registration required Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire

TEEN D&D: RISE OF THE ELEMENTS Group 1 until Mar 25 at 7pm. Group 3 - Thursdays, until Mar 27 at 7pm…for ages 12-16. Registration required ADULT PROGRAMMING:

TECH TIME Available by appointment during Open hours in Main Library for adults - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.

The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453

Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw

Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59

BINGO – Monday @ 6pm

CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm

MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pmEveryone 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

Check

on Facebook.

: Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am/Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 3:45

: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pm-Pickleball/7pmFriendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30am-Pickleball/1pmFloor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking - 11:30am/Art Drop In - 1:00pm/Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pm-Regular Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball - 9:30am and Pickleball - 1:00pm

Social Dance with Leon Ochs, Saturday, March 15 @7:30pm - 11:00pm

Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net

Open Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to closing. Closed on Sundays and stat holidays.

Upcoming: March 20th Rib Night at the Crushed Can. Tickets are $25 each. We will also have a 50/50 draw. For tickets, please contact 306-692-4412. Hiring part time bartenders. Please drop your resume off at 279 High St. W.

Every Saturday Meat Draws. Draws start at 4:30 pm with 10 meat draws, gift cards and 50/50. Everyone is welcome.

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/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca

Derek McRitchie

(306) 631-1161

E.G. (Bub) Hill

(306) 631-9966

Bill McLean

(306) 630-5409

Tanya Minchin

(306) 630-6231

Cassie Nichol

(306) 631-0691

Justin Hammer

(306)684-4266

‘Step

For Her’ event raises over $20K for the Moose Jaw Transition House

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The community came together in a big way during the “Step Up For Her” fundraiser, with 25 dedicated men walking to support the Moose Jaw Transition House — and raising over $20,000 in the process.

Two new commercial storage buildings worth $8.2 million lifted building permit values to new heights for the first two months of the year.

City hall issued two permits worth $4.1 million each for 369C Thatcher Drive East, vacant land next to Canadian Tire.

441 Fairford Street West — site of the former Lions Band hall; $150,000 for the new Legion building at 693 Fairford Street West. and $63,000 to convert a multiple family unit to single family house at 331 Oxford Street West.

A single family house permit issued for $299,000 was the only one in two months.

Participants in the 2025 “Step Up For Her” fundraiser gather for a group photo at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 7. Photo by: John Iatridis/Facebook

The event was made possible through the support of several individuals and organizations. Jennilee Novak, assistant property manager at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall, provided the group with a place to walk, and Michala Turner, community and employee engagement manager with the Moose Jaw Co-op, provided snacks and drinks. Jenn Angus, executive director of the Moose Jaw Transition House, handled online pledges, and Olivia Howe, coaching assistant with the Moose Jaw Warriors Hockey Club, got everyone set up at the hockey game.

Look for further details about the event in the next edition of the Moose Jaw Express paper.

The permits took total building for the month to $8.7 million from $1.57 million last February.

Other major permits included $175,000 for an office building at

One demolition permit was issued.