The Mooseltoe Times by Postmedia Saskatchewan

THE MOOSELTOE TIMES

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THE MOOSEL MOOSEL LT TOE TIMES VOLUME 19, NUMBER 1

COMPLIMENTARY

OCTOBER 2017 - JANUARY 2018

Christmas Moose Jawâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Holiday Shopping Guide

SEE INSIDE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT: Entertainment and events in Moose Jaw throughout the holiday season

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season ‘T THE MOOSELTOE TIMES

Sounds of the

While the rest of the world has to wait until December, the southern Saskatchewan city of Moose Jaw is already dressed in holiday cheer starting in October. The air is, indeed, filled with the feeling of Christmas two months early. Thanks to the annual Christmas in October, Moose Jaw residents and visitors alike can enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and, yes, even sales of the holiday season for more than two months. Santa comes early to Moose Jaw, with a wide range of events

and activities throughout the city. While many take place at various recreational and entertainment facilities, the spirit of Christmas lives in the downtown. With its historic Norman Rockwell-style heritage properties, many of them wrapped in Christmas trimmings, the downtown is the main attraction. Rob Clark, the CEO of the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce doesn’t mince words: “I love downtown, “he says. Chamber members are proud

supporters of the various Christmas and holiday events and attractions the city has become known for. “We’re going to support everything our downtown does,” he says, pointing to the annual Christmas in October and other events held downtown as well as throughout the city. “It’s a big draw,” he says of Christmas in October. “The word is out there, and I think a lot of people actually put it on their calendar,” he says. The October event is, of course, only one of the many attractions

Something for everyone in downtown Moose Jaw! BY C A R O L T O D D

When Petula Clark sang that “downtown, everything’s waiting for you” she doubtless wasn’t referring to Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Yet that prairie city of almost 34,000 inhabitants does, indeed, have something for everyone, especially during the holiday season. It’s a special time of year, as children and adults alike turn their thoughts to all the various delights of the holidays. And the Friendly City gets a head start on the season with its famous Christmas in October. Everyone pitches in, with activities and events, indoor and out, throughout the city. Moose Jaw’s historic downtown is the hub of the city and one of the biggest draws of the season, with its stores all decked out in festive lights and trimming. While there are attractions and events going on throughout the city, the focus of Christmas in October is Moose Jaw’s Rockwellian downtown. “Our downtown is beautiful and historic. There are numerous shops that attract people from all over,” says Jim Dixon, economic develop-

Moose Jaw has to offer, and Clark says that increasing numbers of people are visiting the city, whether they come for the day from areas close by or are part of bus trips from farther away. While no figures are available, Clark believes the annual Christmas in October is a big draw for those living outside of Moose Jaw, with visitors travelling from Regina and Saskatoon in particular. “There

really is a uniqueness about it. I can’t really put my finger on it, but Moose Jaw is really unique and the downtown, with all the shops and everything, really adds to that, as well as our other businesses that aren’t located downtown,” he says. Regardless of whether you are a resident or are visiting, there’s lots to see and do during the holiday season and beyond in the Friendly City of Moose Jaw.

MOOSELTOE TIMES 2017

EDITOR/ WRITER CAROL TODD DESIGNER

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FT? AL’S ODDEST XMAS GI Moose Jaw’s historic downtown gets a head start on the festive season every October, hosting its famous Christmas in October event.

ment officer for the City of Moose Jaw. Christmas in October is definitely one of the city’s major attractions. “It’s the heart and soul of the community. It is truly memorable to experience the downtown,” he says. Many downtown businesses offer specials and sales during Christmas in October and throughout the holiday season, with Christmas in October drawing visitors from far and wide. In addition to all the shopping opportunities, there are numerous attractions such as the Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa, Dixon

says, all combining to lure people to Moose Jaw. Among the many entertainment opportunities are those offered at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre and the Mosaic Place multiplex. And, the fun carries on throughout the holiday season with craft shows and other events, all culminating in the First Night Celebration at the Kinsmen Sportsplex. Kicking off with Christmas in October, and carrying on throughout the holiday season, Moose Jaw, with its historic downtown and numerous shopping and entertainment possibilities, definitely has something for everyone.

gave while in alcatraz, al for a priest sheet music te for a love song he wro lly his wife. it was fina recorded in 2009.

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n ‘Tis the season! THE MOOSELTOE TIMES

bout it. I on it, butMoose Jaw celebrates Christmas in October e and the hops andBY C A R O L T O D D the whole store. Right after Thanks- enjoy this first taste of Christmas. giving, we have all staff in for the “We welcome and congratulate all o that, as sses that Christmas comes early in Moose whole week preparing for the event. the businesses that are taking part,” ,” he says.Jaw, where Santa’s sleigh bells ring They are all very excited about the says Craigen. “They are very excited you are aout in October, inviting everyone to event,” Craigen says. Shoppers also about doing it. Those of us that have here’s lotsget a jump on the holiday season. plan for the special weekend well been around for over 20 years, we e holiday During the Friendly City’s Christ- in advance and like it so much that still get excited about it.” Friendlymas in October, hundreds of visitors many out-of-town visitors often ask Service-oriented businesses join join local residents, all anxious to when the following year’s event will in the festivities, too, with Christexplore the city’s many unique shops take place so that they can make ar- mas displays and promotions. While and attractions. They are seeking the rangements to return. the main focus is the city’s downperfect gift, wanting to catch the first Yvette Moore, artist and owner town, Christmas in October glimpse of the latest in holiday deco- of the Yvette Moore Gallery, started events take place throughout the rating, searching for a stylish new Moose Jaw’s Christmas in October city, with the annual Whistleoutfit for upcoming holiday parties event. She invited other artists and stop Craft Show at the exhibition and get-togethers and visiting one artisans to showcase their works and grounds; activities at the various of the city’s numerous attractions. capture the attention of pre-season parks and recreation locations, in“It’s a very exciting and busy time buyers. The event has grown con- cluding the Western Development of year for us,” says Liz Craigen, tinually, and now throngs of custom- Museum; and crowd-pleasing ofowner of Cranberry Rose Boutique, ers and visitors drop into the city to ferings by cultural and artistic one of the approximate 60 businesses taking part. “It’s the perfect time to shop. It helps people get in the Christmas spirit. Even if people aren’t buying, they are getting really good ideas about what they want to do for Christmas.” Christmas in October is held each year on the third weekend of October; this year’s event will be held October 26 to 29. During the four-day event, each store’s lavish decorations provide a feast for shoppers’ eyes, while the other senses are treated to the sounds, tastes and aromas of the holiday season. In addition to stunning visual displays and holiday music, many businesses offer their customers festive beverages, samples and treats to enjoy while they shop. Many participating stores extend their hours, opening evenings on Thursday and Friday, or add a shopping day on Sunday. Some offer specials with a different sale each day of the four-day event, and some offer in-store draws and give-aways. “Each store does their own unique thing,” says Craigen. The decorations are hung around the store with great care, as Cranberry Preparations for the event begin Rose prepares for Christmas in October each year. CRAN BE RRY ROS E weeks in advance. “We add ChristBOU TI QU E mas into all our displays throughout

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organizations. The City of Moose Jaw contributes to the festive atmosphere by switching on the Christmas lights on Main Street when the event begins, at approximately 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 26 this year. If you can’t make it to Moose Jaw

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in time for Christmas in October, don’t worry. Except for a pause in respect for Remembrance Day, the beautiful displays and great shopping will be around until December 25. “Christmas in October is just the beginning,” says Craigen. Santa would approve!

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Wat’s happening in Moose Jaw OCT. 20 & 27 Medieval Nights Hopkins Dining Parlour, 65 Athabasca St. W A fun-ﬁlled feast served by wenches and monks. For more info, call 306-692-5995. OCT. 21 6th Annual Kids Help Phone Fundraiser Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Fundraiser for Kids Help Phone Free admission, open to all ages. OCT. 21 Moose Jaw’s Food Story Saskatchewan Polytechnic Moose Jaw Campus, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. Hosted by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture and Farm and Food Care Saskatchewan to create awareness of farming and locally produced food products. It will include three short presentations on GMO’s, the use of hormones and antibiotics in meat production and food security, followed by a trade fair showcasing information. OCT. 21 Paint Nite Fundraiser - WDM Short Line 101 Track Repair Western Development Museum, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Join us for a social evening of painting fun featuring the painting, Autumn Shimmer, along with an update on the $101 for the 101 campaign for the Short Line track repair project. Refreshments and snacks for purchase. No minors. Tickets only available online at www.paintnite.com/ events/-1208158

OCT. 27 AND 28 Whistlestop Craft Sale Moose Jaw Exhibition Convention Centre Oct. 27, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 and parking is free of charge. For information call 306-692-1509. OCT. 28 Cosmo Craft and Trade Show Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. There will be a unique variety of vendors to choose your Christmas gifts from. Admission is free, and the kitchen will be open. OCT. 28 RuBarb Productions Gala Fundraiser Temple Gardens Mineral Spa Tickets are $100 per person or $1000 for a table of 8. For more information, call 306-693-1771. OCT. 29 Superheroes & Princesses Mini-Cruise for Kids Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, 12:30 p.m. Presented by RuBarb Productions Tickets are $30 for children and $50 for adults; includes brunch. Call 306-6931771. NOV. 4 & 5 Marlborough House Christmas Tour Marlborough House 161 Marlborough St., various times Tour the historic Marlborough House in support of the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. For information, call 306-692-4444.

OCT. 22 Fierce Femme 5 Kiwanis Pavilion - Wakamow Valley, 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Being a Fierce Femme is all in the attitude. Join us for the most ﬁerce and fun 5KM run-walk event to ever hit Saskatchewan in support of the Canadian Cancer Society. Gather all your lady friends, of all ages, and register now for the event of the season.

NOV. 4 Double Vision Magic Act Moose Jaw Exhibition Doors open at 5; dinner at 6, followed by Magic Act, penny arcade and live and silent auctions. The annual fundraiser for the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre includes a chance to meet some of the imprinted owls and enjoy a special evening of magic. Tickets are $40 each, or a table of 8 for $300. For information, call 306-692-2723.

OCT. 25 – 29 Christmas in October Shopping extravaganza and great attractions help get an early start on the holiday season.

NOV. 18 Annual Festival of Trees Heritage Inn in Moose Jaw The Moose Jaw Health Foundation’s 26th annual Festival of Trees holiday gala at the

Heritage Inn will leave you glowing. The evening includes a gourmet dinner and dance, as well as the auction of uniquely decorated trees. Proceeds from Festival will help the Moose Jaw Health Foundation’s purchase a new portable digital x-ray unit. Festival tickets are $200. Call 306-694-0373. NOV. 18 2017 Yuletyme Trade & Craft Show Minto United Church, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. A good selection of trades and beautiful handmade crafts and tasty treats. Check out the fresh baking! NOV. 19 Festival of Trees Family Brunch Heritage Inn, doors open at 11:30 a.m. for viewing of the trees and other auction items, with brunch starting at noon. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for children. Call 306-694-0373. NOV. 25 Kids’ Secret Shopping & Shortwave To Santa Western Development Museum, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. Children 10 and under can do their Christmas shopping with help from our friendly elves. No parents allowed! Children walk out with their gifts wrapped and ready for Christmas morning. All gifts are $15 or less (cash only please). The Moose Jaw Amateur Radio Club will also be on hand to help you speak to Santa at the North Pole via Shortwave Radio. Current Museum members will have the opportunity to pre-register and shop early on Thursday, Nov. 23 between 4 and 7 p.m. For information, call 306-693-5989. NOV. 25 Breakfast with Mrs. Claus/Girl Guide Bake Sale Western Development Museum 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Start your day visiting with Mrs. Claus while you enjoy breakfast! Tickets are $5/ person (children 3 and under are free). Tickets are available at the WDM or from the Girl Guides. Stop off at the Girl Guides Bake Sale throughout the morning to stock up on delicious holiday treats.

DEC. 1 The Barra MacNeils Mae Wilson Theatre, 7:30 p.m. A presentation of the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre. Tickets are $45. For information, call 306-693-4700. DEC. 1 & 2 A Briercrest Christmas Briercrest College Dec. 1 and 2 at 7 p.m., and Dec. 2 and 3 at 2:30 p.m. Turkey Dinners take place Dec. 1 and 2 at 4:30 p.m. Presentation of the musical, Lost in the Snow, as well as the annual Christmas Craft Sale and Turkey Dinner. Tickets for the performances are $18 for adults; $12 for children; $50 family rate (two adults, two children). Tickets for the performances and turkey dinner are $42 for adults, and $35 for children. For information, call 1-888-462-2202. DEC. 7 TO 9 Elf Jr., The Musical Mae Wilson Theatre, times vary A RuBarb School of Performing Arts Production. Ticket prices vary. Call 306-693-1771.

DEC. 16 There ar Holiday Train burrowing Time and location to be announced. See www.cpr.ca/holiday-train/schedule- a healthy declared a canada. on top of Populati DEC. 19 been decli The Sultans of String 1987, the Mae Wilson Theatre, 7:30 p.m. A presentation of the Moose Jaw Cultural per cent. T Centre. Tickets are $45. For information, an endan 2014 cens call 306-693-4700. cent incre numbers w DEC. 31 reported i First Night There ar Kinsmen Sportsplex $30 for a family of four, and $5 for each additional family member until Dec. 23; ticket prices will increase to $40 beginning Dec. 27.

For an updated calendar of events, visit www.discovermoosejaw.com/community-events While every effort is made to ensure that the information Double in this listing is correct, details may be subject to change. identica act Please conﬁrm dates, times and admission fees before attending.

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No your ey you. You’re ment duo Canada’s and comed The pair urday, Nov Vision Ma fundraiser rowing Ow evening w meet some owls, part and live a course, enj Act. The iden comedy an kind stage Michael t identical t this you’ll shows tha other ben performan pation is a

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WHOOO KNEW?

Burrowing owl adoption is a thoughtful gift idea There are many reasons to support burrowing owls – they contribute to a healthy ecosystem, they have been declared an endangered species, and on top of that, they’re adorable! Populations of burrowing owls have been declining since the 1980s. Since 1987, the population dropped by 96 per cent. They were officially declared an endangered species in 1995. The 2014 census numbers show a 43 per cent increase in the Burrowing Owl numbers with 30 pairs of owls being reported in Saskatchewan. There are numerous factors that af-

fect the Burrowing Owl population: habitat loss and/or change, pesticide use, a decrease in the animals that provide burrows, human contact, and mortalities during migration and while at their U.S. winter grounds. The Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre (SBOIC) in Moose Jaw promotes conservation of the owl and its native prairie habitat through education, stewardship and eco-tourism. In-house tours and the Owls on Tour program offer the opportunity to meet one of the centre’s ambassador owls and learn more about them and their needs. This can lead to a greater understanding of how everyone can play a role in the conservation of this

endangered species. The cost of maintaining owls in captivity adds up quickly, though. Food alone costs about $300 per owl per year. To help maintain the centre, its programs, and the owls’ care, SBOIC has established an adoption program. Adoption prices vary depending upon the length of time. A six-month adoption period is available for $50; a year is $100, and $175 buys a two-year adoption. The adoption package includes: • a certificate with details about your adopted owl, including a picture, as well as a photo ready for framing. • a fact sheet on burrowing owls, and two postcards. One- and two-year adoption pack-

ages also include either a stuffed plush burrowing owl toy or a SBOIC lapel pin. If requested, the centre will send the adoption package, including a personalized letter, as a gift to the recipient. Money raised through the adoption program helps the centre care for the birds it raises, helping maintain the population. One hundred per cent of the funds raised through the Adopt an Owl program goes toward their upkeep, and contributions are all tax deductible. A gift of a Burrowing Owl adoption from the SBOIC will not only delight the recipient, it will have a much wider impact. Centre Owl Coordinator

Lori Johnson says that helping Burrowing Owls benefits us all. “They are a very significant factor in a healthy ecosystem,” she says. “So by protecting them, we are actually protecting not just the owls, but the ecosystem they live in and the other animals that depend on that eco-system, including we humans.” The program is very popular, especially around the holiday season, said Johnson. “It’s particularly successful for us around Christmastime, though it is a year-round program,” she says. Supplied by The Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre.

ADOPT-AN-OWL makes a great Christmas gift!

Double Vision is Canada’s only identical twin magic and comedy act. S U P P L I E D P H O T O

SEEING DOUBLE? No your eyes aren’t playing tricks on you. You’re just seeing the entertainment duo of Mitchell and Michael, Canada’s only identical twin magic and comedy act. The pair will be in Moose Jaw on Saturday, Nov. 4 to present their Double Vision Magic Act as part of the annual fundraiser for the Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre. The evening will feature an opportunity to meet some of the Centre’s imprinted owls, participate in a penny arcade and live and silent auctions, and of course, enjoy the Double Vision Magic Act. The identical twins present a clean comedy and magic act for a two-of-akind stage experience. Mitchell and Michael take full advantage of the identical twin aspect and because of this you’ll see many routines in their shows that are unique to them. Another benefit to any Double Vision performance is that audience participation is a large part of every show.

The Saskatchewan Burrowing Owl Interpretive Centre (SBOIC), is once again offering a special Adopt-an-Owl package for the holiday season. For your donation you will receive a 2018 Burrowing Owl Calendar, a certificate with a picture of your owl, an additional photograph ready for framing, fact sheet and postcard. With a donation of $100 or more, you will also receive a special gift! Most importantly you will enable us to provide top of the line care for your special owl.

Adoption Amounts: $50/6 months $100/1 year $175/2 years

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Christmas

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Traditionally

The origins of some beloved holiday traditions Christmas time is here. The presents are being purchased and wrapped. The stockings will soon be hung on the fireplace mantle. Mistletoe is pinned above the front entryway, and poinsettias add rich color to home decor. Tradition is integral come the holiday season. Throughout the month of December, traditions fill people’s days and comprise the many reasons why individuals decorate, celebrate and dine the way they do this time of year. But few may know the origins of some of the most beloved holiday traditions.

MISTLETOE

CHRISTMAS TREE

CHRISTMAS BELLS

Christmas Trees are everywhere this time of year. The use of evergreen trees predates Christmas and is associated with the pagan festival of Saturnalia, which celebrated the agricultural god Saturn with partying and gift-giving. During the winter solstice, green branches served as a reminder that spring would arrive anew. Germans are credited with first bringing evergreens into their homes and decorating them.

Church bells ring for many special services, including Christmas mass. During Christmas midnight mass in the Catholic Church, the altar bells may be rung while the priest says the “Gloria.” Bells are part of caroling, and jingling bells are associated with sleighs and Santa’s reindeer.

S A N TA C L AU S

Santa Claus’ origin story can be traced to St. Nicholas, a Christian bishop who lived during the fourth century. St. Nicholas was very generous and gave away his fortune to help the needy. He also did various other good deeds. St. Nicholas became infamous and began to be known by various names around the world. The Dutch called him Sinter Klaas, which was eventually transformed to Santa Claus. The jolly persona came later when 20th century advertisers - especially the artists responsible for Coca-Cola ads - portrayed Santa in a red suit with a big smile.

Mistletoe is hung in doorways, and couples who stand beneath are encouraged to share a kiss. The tradition of hanging it in the house goes back to the times of the ancient Druids. Mistletoe was thought to bring good luck to a household and ward off evil spirits. The custom of kissing under mistletoe can be traced to England. Originally, a berry was picked from the sprig of mistletoe before the person could be kissed. When all the berries had gone, there could be no more kissing.

CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS

The hanging of Christmas stockings is a tradition with an extensive history. Several legends attribute the hanging of stockings to different people or events. Here is a look at some of the stories that have made Christmas stockings so popular: S T. N I C H O L A S DAY

Rather than hanging stockings on Christmas, many countries celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on December 6, and this is when stockings are proudly left out for treats. The small, inexpensive trinkets are later unwrapped and enjoyed on Christmas Day.

D U T C H H E R I TAG E

One tradition says that, in 16th century Holland, children kept their clogs filled with straw in front of the hearth for Santa’s reindeer to find. They also left treats for Santa Claus. In return, Santa would leave gifts in the clogs. Over time, stockings were swapped out for clogs. M E R C H A N T ’ S FA M I LY S T O RY

A popular tale tells the story of a merchant, his wife and three daughters. After the wife falls ill and dies, the man becomes devastated and squanders all of his wealth on frivolous things to mask his sadness. When it comes time for the daughters to marry, the man does not have money for a dowry. St. Nicholas hears of the plight and knows the man would be too proud to accept charity. Therefore, St. Nicholas anonymously tosses three bags of gold coins down the chimney. The man’s daughters had done the laundry prior and left their stockings hanging by the fireplace to dry. The gold landed in the stockings, thus starting the Christmas stocking tradition. I TA L I A N G O O D W I T C H

One stocking story does not attribute the tradition to Santa, but to a kind-hearted Italian witch named “La Befana.” La Befana arrives on a broomstick the night of January 5 and fills the stockings of good children with sweet treats and toys. Bad children are awarded lumps of coal. La Befana is also credited with being the old woman who the wise men ask for directions to Christ’s manger in the Christ child’s story. After turning down an offer to accompany them, La Befana later carried gifts in search of Christ. (MNS)

The hanging of Christmas stockings is a centuries-old tradition in many European countries. P H O T O : G E T T Y I M AG E

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It’s beginning to look a lot like

BY C A R O L T O D D

The holiday season can sometimes seem to be nothing more than one long marketing extravaganza, yet the true spirit of Christmas can be n in many found everywhere – one need only look. With the city of Moose Jaw welcoming the early arrival of the holidays with its Christmas in October event, individuals and organizations throughout the Friendly City get in the spirit. There are all the sights and sounds, and sales, associated with the season as everyone pitches in for what can be one of the busiest times of the year. While the rest of the world has to wait until December, the holiday season begins early in Moose Jaw with its now-famous Christmas in October. The yearly event kicks off all the fun and excitement of

the season, with attractions downtown and throughout the city offering lots of things to see and do. Much of the activity centres on the downtown, with its array of shops, restaurants, accommodations, spas and entertainment all decked out in holiday style. Among the highpoints of the season are the festive, colourful lights that bedeck the city, especially downtown and along the route of the Santa Claus parade. The parade route traditionally ends at Fifth Avenue Collection, where the outside light displays rival the bling inside. Santa’s route hasn’t yet been finalized for this year, but Betty Butler, one of the “gang” at Fifth Avenue Collection, looks forward to his arrival again this year, as the jewelry company again decorates its outside with bling to rival that inside the store.

In addition to its yearly dazzling outdoor displays, a Devotion Tree will once again be the star of the show. The idea of company employee Chhoeut Chhoun, the tree made its debut in 2016, and features decorations hung by anyone wishes to remember a special person or event in their lives, from births, to anniversaries, to the passing of a loved one. “We’re excited to do it again this year,” says Butler. The company has been putting on its dazzling displays for more than 20 years and Butler says it’s another way for the company, which has helped fund numerous Moose Jaw initiatives over the years, back to the community. “Moose Jaw is our home town. The people of this city and province have been good to Fifth Avenue Collection over the years. We have expanded to many countries

since then, but this is our roots. We have always felt our good fortune should be the good fortune of others, and are thankful for our humble beginnings and the people who helped us get started. Giving back to the community is our way

of saying thanks,” she says. “For all of this, is the reason we decorate for Christmas.” “To the city we love, we wish everyone happiness, health and a happy future,” says Butler. So say we all.

Moose Jaw Parks & Recreation 22NDANNUAL

FIRST NIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE FAMILY CELEBRATION

December 31, 2017 7:00 pm - 12:30 am AT THE KINSMEN SPORTSPLEX

Swimming, Skating, Games and Fun for the whole family December 1ST - 23RD Tickets $30 (per family of four) December 27TH - 31ST Tickets $40 (per family of four) Additional family members $5 each

Call 306-694-4483 for more information REG00260775_1_1

Moose Jaw businesses and attractions are getting all decked out in holiday style.

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BY C A R O

DIVE INTO WINTER FUN!

Enjoy swimming and skating at no charge on Free Family Fridays! Free skating is available at the Wally Boschuck Arena and free swimming is offered at the Kinsmen Sportsplex. SUP P LIED P HOT O BY C A R O L T O D D

There’s lots to do for young and old in Moose Jaw over the holiday season and, indeed, throughout the winter months. Take the fun indoors at one of Moose Jaw’s parks and recreation facilities. Barb Fysh, recreation services manager for the City of Moose Jaw, says there are lots of things for residents and visitors to enjoy over the winter, and especially during the Christmas season. “We have all the facilities open for extended swimming and skating hours over the holiday season. This is especially nice for all the children who are out of school over the holidays,” she says, advising anyone interested to check out the hours and prices online. An ongoing service offered by Moose Jaw Parks and Recreation is Free Family Fridays — swimming and skating times at no charge for the public. Free skating is available at the Wally Boshuck Arena every Friday during the ice season from 6:45 to 8:15 p.m., and free swimming is offered Friday at the Kinsmen Sportsplex from 6 to 7:15 p.m. for families only, and from 7:30 to 9:15 p.m. for the entire public. Free Teen Swim is on Saturday‘s for ages 12 to 18, from 9:15 to 11 p.m. With all the events and activities taking place indoors and out at Moose Jaw’s numerous rinks

and other facilities, the Friendly City pulls out all the stops for New Year’s Eve. Shelly Howe, recreation program supervisor says while most bars and restaurants offer special events to mark the celebration, nothing can compare to the fun of ringing in a new year with family and friends at the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Sportsplex during First Night festivities. She states that family is what it’s all about, with door prizes and a host of activities. Not only will the rink be open for skating and the pool for swimming and water games, but there will also be Wii video games, table games, billiards, air hockey and music, along with numerous other things to see and do. The concession will also be open for food and nonalcoholic beverages. The traditional midnight countdown will feature a huge balloon drop as everyone dons their New Year’s Eve hats and fires

up their noisemakers. The local celebrations and winter delights are not just for residents of Moose Jaw to enjoy. Howe points out that families from surrounding communities have participated in the First Night event in past years, and she invites everyone to join in for this year’s 22nd annual event. “It’s a whole lot of fun, and good for the whole family,” she says. First Night will be held on Dec. 31 from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Tickets are available at the Kinsmen Sportsplex beginning Dec. 1 and will cost $30 for a family of four, and $5 for each additional family member until Dec. 23. The facility will be closed Dec. 24, 25, and 26 for holidays and preparation, and the ticket prices will increase to $40 beginning Dec. 27. More information is available at http://moosejaw.ca/parks/recreation/swimming.

ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS YOU!

Moose Ja again ge season w to delight The Cen Coast Ch MacNeils up with Dec. 19. A mus tional M gleaned f midnight festive fro holiday se the spirit vocals, di extraordi Barra Ma

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A cultural

BY C A R O L T O D D

Moose Jaw’s Cultural Centre once again gets into the spirit of the season with musical productions to delight the entire family. The Centre kicks off with an East Coast Christmas with the Barra MacNeils on Dec. 1 and follows up with the Sultans of String on Dec. 19. A musical potpourri of traditional MacNeil family favourites gleaned from Christmas ceilidhs, midnight masses and the general festive frolic that accompanies each holiday season will get everyone in the spirit. With their captivating vocals, distinctive harmonies and extraordinary musicianship, The Barra MacNeils inject new life and

energy into the sights and sounds of Christmas. The five MacNeil siblings — Lucy, Boyd, Stewart, Kyle and Sheumas — combine a vast array of instruments including accordion, guitar, piano, fiddle, bodhran, mandolin, banjo, Celtic harp, tin whistles, bouzouki, flute, all underpinned by the nimble-fingered Jamie Gatti on bass. The result is a sound that is unmistakably The Barra MacNeils: one moment a rousing chorus, then a hauntingly beautiful Gaelic ballad leading into a flurry of footstomping instrumentals. Then, celebrate the season with an adventurous musical trip around the world with the Sultans of String. The award-winning

group delivers an exuberant performance featuring band originals, world-music inspired classics and seasonal favourites. From fiery fiddle tunes to a Caribbean sleigh ride, this holiday musical presentation heats up when the Sultans bring their signature sound to Christmas classics. Featured songs included The Huron Carol, with Indigenous lyrics, a djembe-driven Little Drummer Boy, a Feliz Navidad ska party, a Turkish twist on Greensleeves, a Gypsy-jazz inspired Django Christmas and a rumba flamenco-fuelled Jingle Bells. From around the world, to the east coast, to the prairies, the sounds of Christmas come alive at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre.

PRESENTS...

THE BARRA MACNEILS An East Coast Christmas Friday, December 1st, 2017 at 8:00pm

SULTANS OF STRING

presents Christmas Caravan Tuesday, December 19th, 2017 at 7:30pm

The Barra MacNeils bring an East Coast flavour to the holiday season. S U PPL I E D PH OTO

Mae Wilson Theatre 217 MAIN STREET N. MOOSE JAW 306-693-4700 • moosejawculture.ca REG00260708_1_1

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

REGINA LEADERPOST

Experience the

Magic of Christmas

he Hammond Building on Main Street in Moose Jaw was built in 1910 and is one of the city’s historic landmarks. The building still displays much of its antique glamour and insignia, and retains its handsome, historic finish. The main doors of the building are framed by antique rosettes and pillars, and the lobby displays chandeliers and more. Many successful businesses have resided in the Hammond Building over the years and it has become a shopping hot spot.

Gingerbread Square and Cranberry Rose offer an array of elegant selections for those shopping for the women in their lives. Of course, shopping is hungry work. To satisfy your hunger, head over to Saigon 75 for excellent Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese cuisine. The Hammond Building was originally designed to be six storeys, but the last two floors were never completed. The fourth floor was sealed with an ornate cornice and elaborate brickwork around the windows.

If you’re looking to mix some history with the excitement of If you’re shopping for someone who has everything, the holiday season, be sure to visit the Hammond Building, Ellen’s on Main offers unique festive home décor, gifts 310 Main St and fresh flowers. Dash Leather, a former business, left its insignia in the current Ellen’s on Main by signing the wall, dated in the 1950s.

Cranberry Rose Ladies Boutique & Home Decor

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At The Historical

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Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

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312 Main St N • 306-692-4444 • ellensonmain.com REG00260782_1_1

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Baking Baking shortcuts shortcuts for for time-pressed time-pressed entertainers entertainers

‘Tis the season for baking cookies, ‘Tis season bakingHowever, cookies, cakestheand otherfortreats. cakes other treats. However, during and the holiday rush, it’s easy to during the holiday rush,and it’sperhaps easy to get side-tracked or tired, get side-tracked or tired, and perhaps even a little bit overwhelmed by even little to bitdooverwhelmed by all theathings in such a short all the things to doHoliday in such abaking short period of time. period Holiday baking doesn’t of havetime. to add to seasonal doesn’t have to tips addand to shortcuts, seasonal stress. With these stress. Withbethese tipsofand shortcuts, there will plenty sweet treats there be plenty of sweet treats for thewill family. for the family.

originally made to test oven temperoriginally made tohistorians test oven say temperatures? Culinary that atures? say ifthat cookies Culinary were firsthistorians made to test an cookies were made testother if an oven was hotfirst enough toto bake oven hotcookies enoughcan to be bake other goods.was Today, whipped goods. Today, cookiesMake can beawhipped up in mere minutes. batch of up in mere Make a batch of dough and minutes. then freeze or refrigerate dough and then freeze refrigerate it, thawing it when theortime comes it, thawing whenabout the time comes to bake. Also,itthink baking one to Also, thinkthe about baking one daybake. and decorating next if pressed day and decorating the next if pressed for time. for time.

recipes. Eggs can be brought to room recipes. Eggs by canallowing be brought to room temperature them to sit temperature by allowing them tothat sit in a bowl of warm water. Ensure in a bowl of warm Ensure thata brown sugar stayswater. soft by putting brown soft piece ofsugar slicedstays bread in by theputting contain-a piece of sliced in the container. Don’t forgetbread to stock up on other er. Don’t forgetsuch to stock up onand other baking staples, as vanilla albaking staples, such as vanilla and almond extracts, baking powder/soda, mond extracts, baking powder/soda, molasses, and confectioner’s sugar. molasses, and confectioner’s sugar.

STICK WITH TESTED S WSI T H T E S T E D RT EICCIK PE RE C I PE S holiday bakers may want Although

E M B R AC E C O L O U R E D E MNBDY R AC OS LOURED CA MEE C LT CA N DYcan M be E LT S to master. SimIcing tricky

Notscratch. all recipes to be can made from Boxedneed cake mixes be from scratch.and Boxed cakeinto mixes can be embellished turned delicious embellished and turned desserts without muchinto fuss.delicious Substidesserts without Substitute melted buttermuch for oil,fuss. buttermilk tute melted butter oil, buttermilk for water, and add for an extra egg for a for an extra egg forora richwater, cake. and Mix add in chocolate chips rich Mix in chocolate chipsfor or nuts cake. or experiment with garnishes nuts or experiment with garnishes for a festive look. a festive look.

holiday bakers want toAlthough branch out a bit with theirmay culinary to branch recipes out a bitthat with their culinary creativity, have previously creativity, recipes that havesuccess previously been prepared with great can been prepared with great can take some of the work outsuccess of holiday take some of the work out of baking. Preparing recipes youholiday recall baking. Preparing recipes you easier recall preparing in the past is much preparing the past isnew. muchIf easier than tryinginsomething you’d than trying something new. If you’d like, add sparkle to old standards, such like, add sparkleoatmeal to old standards, such as decorating or chocolate as decorating oatmeal or chocolate chip cookies with coloured sprinkles. chip cookies with coloured sprinkles. C O O K I E S A R E FA S T - B A K I N G CO O Kyou I E Sknow A R E that FA S cookies T - B A K Iwere NG Did

Did you know that cookies were

cancoloured be trickycandy to master. plyIcing heating meltsSimand ply heating coloured candy meltsonto and pouring over cakes or painting pouring over cakes or painting cookies can add festive appeal toonto descookies can add festive appealintomany desserts. Candy melts even come serts. Candy melts even in many different colors and cancome be combined different anddesired. can be combined to achievecolors the tint to achieve the tint desired. KEEP INGREDIENTS IN TOP K ER EP FO MI N G R E D I E N T S I N T O P FO R M let poorly performing ingrediDon’t

Don’t poorly performing ingredients or aletlack of supplies be your unents orButter a lack can of supplies be your undoing. be softened quickly doing. can bewhen softened quickly in the Butter microwave needed for in the microwave when needed for

D O N ’ T BA K E F RO M S C R AT C H DO N ’ TallBA K E F RO M to S Cbe R AT CH Not recipes need made

Line cookie sheets with parchment paperor forcake easypans deswith parchment paper for easy dessert release and quick clean-up. Parchsert release Parchment paperand andquick even clean-up. foil can help lift ment and even help lift cakes paper or cookie bars foil outcan of pans so cakes or neat cookie outstick. of pans so they look andbars do not (MNS) they look neat and do not stick. (MNS)

Celebrating Celebrating 30 30 years years of of creativity! creativity!

A true gem in the heart of A true gem the heart of Moose Jaw, in Emerald CusMoose Jaw, Emerald Custom Creations is a hidden tom Creations a hidden treasure trove ofis Christmas treasure of Christmas magic. Fortrove residents and visimagic. For residents visitors alike, this is a and definite tors alike, on thisyour is a destinadefinite must-stop must-stop your destination list. At on Emerald Custom tion list. Atyou’re Emerald Creations, sureCustom to find Creations, you’re sure to find the best selection of heartfelt the of heartfelt giftsbest andselection unique home décor. gifts unique home décor. Theirand gift-giving specialists Their gift-givingalmost specialists will customize any will customize any gift you can thinkalmost of, as there gift canto think as there is noyou limit theirof,imaginais no limit to their imagination! tion! This year, Emerald Custom This year, Emerald30 Custom Creations celebrates years Creations celebrates 30family years as a second-generation as a second-generation family business. The store, located business. The store, at 476 Fairford Streetlocated West, at Fairford Street into West,a has476 been transformed has been transformed into10a winter wonderland with winter wonderland with 10

Santa’s

GONE GREEN!

PA RC H M E N T PA PE R I S K EY PA RC Hcookie MENT PA PE I S Kpans EY Line sheets orRcake

Emerald Custom Creations has created a display Emerald Custom Creations has SU created PPL I EaD display PH OTO of 10 dazzling Christmas trees. of 10 dazzling Christmas trees. SU PPL I E D PH OTO

dazzling trees. Each tree is dazzling trees. Each is custom-designed withtree handcustom-designed with handpicked themed ornaments is picked themed ornaments is mixed with a magical twist mixed with a tradition. magical twist on Christmas You on You willChristmas also find tradition. a wide selecwill also find aartwork wide selection of creative and tion of creative artwork and holiday home décor that is holiday home décoron that is sure to put a smile your sure put face. a smile on your lovedtoone’s loved face. Let one’s your imagination run Letand yourstart imagination run wild your holiday wild and start holiday shopping withyour a stop at shopping with aCreations. stop at Emerald Custom Emerald Custom Duane, Lana and Creations. their aweDuane, Lana their some staff areand excited to awehelp some staffthe areperfect excitedinspirato help you find you the perfect inspiration find for your gift giving. Foltion your giving. Follow for them ongift Facebook for low them on Facebookand for upcoming promotions upcoming promotions and events. events. - Supplied by Emerald Custom - Supplied by Emerald Custom Creations. Creations.

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Assiniboia Emerald Park/Regina Montmartre 306.642.3266 306.721.5050 306.424.2212 Moose Jaw Mossbank Raymore 306.692.2371 306.354.2411 306.746.2110 Southey Weyburn 306.726.2155 306.842.4686 REG00260774_1_1

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Chugging along to fight hunger The Holiday Train on its way outside of Regina. P H OTO COU RTE SY CANAD I AN PACI F I C RAI L BY C A R O L T O D D

Canadian Pacific Railway’s (CP) Holiday Train is once again on track to raise awareness – and funds – for food banks across Canada and the United States. Since 1999, two special trains – one in Canada and one in the U.S. – have travelled the tracks during the holiday season. The Holiday Train program began as an employee initiative, and last year thousands of people celebrated with the Holiday Train, raising more than $1.2 million and 250,000 pounds of food for food banks along its route. The trains chug across Canada and the United States raising money and food for local food banks and helping increase awareness of hunger issues. They travel roughly 10,000 kilometres each year, last year visiting 180 communities. This year, the Holiday Trains will stop in Moose Jaw on Sat., Dec. 16, with the time and location to be announced. Last year, the train stopped at 3 Manitoba St. W., just west of the CP station. Jeremy Berry, CP spokesperson, says this year the Holiday Train is a fitting way to wrap up Canada’s 150 celebrations. “It is with great anticipation that we look forward to the 19th version of the CP Holiday Train. Since 1999, the Holiday Train

program has raised more than $13 million and four million pounds of food for local food banks. We look forward to seeing everyone out in December, as we conclude our Canada 150 celebrations while raising important funds for food banks this holiday season,” Berry says. Each Holiday Train is about 1,000 feet long, and is made up of 14 rail cars decorated with hundreds of thousands of technology-leading LED lights and holiday designs. Each has one modified boxcar that has been transformed into a travelling stage for performers. The concerts are free, but attendees are encouraged to make a donation to the food bank — either a nonperishable food item or a cash donation. Information on this year’s performers, as well as other details, will be available at www.cpr.ca/en/ community/holiday-train, and through Facebook and Twitter later this month. Everything raised in each community stays in that community, and CP also makes donations at each stop. Moose Jaw, with its long history as a railway centre, is still a major hub for CP, and the Holiday Train is an important contributor to the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank. Last year’s Holiday Train stop netted a total of 5,500 pounds of food, as well as cash donations,

including $10,000 from CP. Manager Terri Smith says it really is the thought that counts. “I get a lot of people coming in with one or two items and they say, ‘Sorry, I don’t have any more,’ but it’s one or two cans more than we had a couple of minutes ago. That’s a meal right there,” she said. The attention the Holiday Train brings to the issue of hunger and the needs of food banks is almost as valuable as the money and food. “I can’t thank CP enough for them to be aware [of the issue]. In Canada, no kid should go hungry; no adult should go hungry, but they do,” Smith said. The arrival of the Holiday Train is eagerly awaited by everyone, including the Food Bank staff, volunteers and clients. “It’s something we look forward to every year – bundling up and going down to the Holiday Train. It’s a sense of togetherness; a sense of teamwork, when everybody can get together and help your fellow neighbour or your fellow co-worker,” Smith said. “It’s nice to know that we have each other’s back.” It’s the Christmas spirit and the Saskatchewan sense of community all wrapped up into a heart-warming bundle of Yuletide joy. Santa may have to trade in his reindeer and take the train!

We would love to be part of your Christmas shopping experience.

Enjoy Christmas treats and get your shopping underway!

Chrrisstmass in Octoberr Hourss Thursday, Oct. 26 10 AM - 9 PM

Saturday, Oct. 28 10 AM - 5 PM

Friday, Oct.27

Sunday, Oct. 29

10 AM - 9 PM

12 PM - 4 PM

Artist Laura Hamilton will be unveiling and signing her 2018 calendars on…. OCTOBER 26 7PM - 9PM 321 Main St. N. Moose Jaw 306-692-6806 REG00260766_1_1

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Oh! Christmas Tree

THE MOOSELTOE TIMES

People have visited forests to select their Christmas trees for centuries. While tree sellers conveniently stationed in store parking lots and artificial trees displayed in various retailers have led fewer people to venture into the wilderness, the Christmas tree is still an important component of holiday celebrations. Long before the spread of Christianity, evergreen plants and trees held special meaning for people during the winter. Boughs and garlands were hung in homes and over doors and windows to repel evil spirits and illnesses. On the winter solstice, the greenery would represent that spring would once again arrive and banish winter’s dreariness. Germans who decorated trees inside of their homes are credited with starting Christian Christmas tree traditions during the 16th century. Early Americans were late to

adopt Christmas trees because early Puritan settlers thought the tradition - as well as carols and other concepts - were Pagan influences. It took the popularity of England’s Queen Victoria and her German Prince Albert appearing around a decorated Christmas tree to eventually win over much of Europe, Canada and the United States. Trees are very popular today. According to StatisticsBrain, 10 million artificial trees are sold in the United States each year, while 34.5 million real trees are sold annually. Such trees require decorating, and the following secrets and tips can help celebrants do just that. • For added safety, anchor a tree to a wall or ceiling, so it will not tumble over onto children or curious pets. • In homage of the first German Christmas trees, decorate

with natural ingredients, such as berries and pinecones. Also, use apples, nuts and marzipan candies. •To free up more space for presents, place a narrow tree stand inside of a waterproof planting container. Place the tree inside. This will provide a more streamlined look that’s neater than a tree skirt. • The more lights the better, especially on dense trees. • For a whimsical approach, match the tree decor to home decor and the color of furniture. • Make handcrafted ornaments with the whole family. • Hang the most delicate pieces toward the top where they won’t be disturbed. Step back and enjoy your handiwork, which will also give you a chance to find any blank spots that need filling in. (MNS)

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THE MOOSELTOE TIMES

Festival Festival of Trees Trees shines shines

s, such asas nts, such s,Also, suchuse as Christmas spirit ofof giving conThe Christmas spirit giving cons. Also, use The The Christmas spirit of giving conAlso, use tinues on Sat., Nov. 18, as the Moose nan candies. candies.tinues on Sat., Nov. 18, as the Moose tinues on Sat., Nov. 18, as the Moose nce candies. Jaw Foundation’s 26th Anfor presJawHealth Health Foundation’s 26th Anfor presJaw Health Foundation’s 26th for presnual Festival of Trees holiday gala ee stand gala tree standnual Festival of Trees holidayAnFestival ofat Trees holiday gala eeplanting standnual gets under way Inn planting gets under way atthe theHeritage Heritage Inn of gets under way at the Heritage Inn planting ee inside. in Moose Jaw. This year’s theme, tree inside.in Moose Jaw. This year’s theme, ee inside. in Moose Jaw. This year’s theme, Luminous will inspire a aglamore streamLuminous will inspire glamorore streamLuminous will inspire a glamore streamous,brilliant brilliantholiday holidayseason seasonthat that than a tree ous, han a tree brilliant holiday season that han a treeous, will leave you glowing. will leave you glowing. will leave you glowing. The Festival’s volunteer commitbetter, The Festival’s volunteer commitehe better, The Festival’s volunteer commites. better,teetee once again led the talented is is once again led byby the talented tee is once again ledincredible by the talented Laurie Kosior. Her incredible team approach, Laurie Kosior. Her team pproach, Laurie Kosior. Her incredible team pproach, volunteers alreadyhard hard rtotohome home ofofvolunteers isisalready atat volunteers isan already hard at to homeof work creating incredible event furniture. work creating an incredible event rniture. work creating an incredible event rniture. ornaments the community.Their Theirtireless tireless namentsforfor the community. namentsfor theincommunity. Their tireless effort inorganizing organizing every detail effort every detail effort in organizing every detail this event directly benefits pacate pieces ofof this event directly benefits pate pieces of thisand event directly benefits pate pieces tients andcitizens citizens MooseJaw Jaw they won’t tients ofof Moose hey won’t and citizens of Moose who Jaw hey won’ttients and Southern Saskatchewan who and Southern Saskatchewan and Southern Saskatchewan who your handiutilize our hospital. ur handiutilize our hospital. ur handiour hospital. Proceeds fromthe thefestival festivalwill will give youautilize aProceeds from ve you Proceeds from Jaw the festival will ve you a helpthe theMoose Moose JawHealth HealthFounFounk spots that help spots that the purchase Moose Jaw Health Founspots thathelp dation’s purchase newportable portable dation’s a anew dation’s purchase a new portable

digital digitalx-ray x-rayunit unitthat thatwill willprovide provide digital x-ray unit that will provide state-of-the-art equipment state-of-the-art equipmenttotoaapapastate-of-the-art equipment to a the patient’s tient’sbedside. bedside.This Thiswill willreplace replace the tient’s bedside. replace the current system that isisover 1010years current systemThis thatwill over years current system that is over 10 years old. old. old.

Take a detour

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decorated decoratedtrees treesand andother otherfantastic fantastic decorated trees and other fantastic live items, with a gourmet live items, with a gourmetdinner dinner live a gourmet and dance included in festive anditems, dancewith included inthe thedinner festive and dance included thewill festive annual event. Barry Vice MC annual event. Barryin Vice will MC annual event. Barry Vice will MC the event and music will be provided the event and music will be provided the event by Hot Lix. by Hotand Lix.music will be provided byTickets Hot Lix. Ticketsare are available available by by callcallTickets are at available by calling Sherryn at 306-694-0373. 306-694-0373. ing Sherryn ing Sherryn at 306-694-0373. Theprice priceofoftickets tickets $200each. each. The isis$200 The price of tickets istickets $200early. each. Pleasereserve reserveyour yourtickets early. Please Please your tickets Thereserve Annual Festival Trees The Annual Festival ofofearly. Trees The Annual Festival of at Trees Familybrunch brunchwill willbe beheld held atthe the Family Family brunch will be held the Heritage Innon on Sun., Nov.at 19th. Heritage Inn Sun., Nov. 19th. Heritage Innataton Sun., Nov. 19th. Doorsopen open 11:30 a.m. forviewviewDoors 11:30 a.m. for Doors open at 11:30 a.m. for viewingofofthe thetrees treesand andother otherauction auction ing ing of the trees and other auction items with brunch starting at items with brunch starting at items with brunch starting at noon.Tickets Ticketsfor forthis thisevent eventare are noon. noon. Tickets by for this event are alsoavailable available bycalling calling Sherryn also Sherryn also available by calling Sherryn theHealth HealthFoundation Foundationoffice officeat at atatthe at the Health Foundation at 306-694-0373. Ticketsare areoffice $25for for 306-694-0373. Tickets $25 306-694-0373. Tickets are $25 for Adultsand and$10 $10 forchildren. children. Adults for Adults and $10 for children. Submittedby bythe theMoose MooseJaw JawHealth Health Eachyear, year,the theevening’s evening’shighlight highlight Submitted Each Submitted by the Moose Jaw Health Each year, the evening’s thegala’s gala’s auction uniquely Foundation. Foundation. isis the auction ofofhighlight uniquely is the gala’s auction of uniquely Foundation.

The TheChristmas Christmasseason seasonisisaabusy busy The Christmas season is a take busy time, but a perfect time, but a perfecttime timeto to take aa time, but aenjoy perfect time to take a detour detourto to enjoythe theholidays holidayswith with detour to enjoy the holidays with the theMarlborough MarlboroughHouse HouseChristmas Christmas the Marlborough House Christmas Tour Tourand andhelp helpsupport supportthe theMoose Moose Tour and help support the Moose Jaw Health Foundation. Jaw Health Foundation. Jaw Health Foundation. Sponsored by Sponsored byEllen’s Ellen’son onMain, Main, Sponsored by Ellen’s on Main, Ellen is decorating her historic Ellen is decorating her historic Ellen is decorating her historic brownstone and ititup brownstone andopening opening upto to the the brownstone and opening upthe to the community communityto toraise raisefunds fundsitfor for the community to raise funds forMoose the Women’sHealth Health Unit ofthe the Moose Women’s Unit of Women’s Health Unit of the Moose JawHealth HealthFoundation. Foundation. Jaw Jaw Health Foundation. Marlborough House,built builtin in 1912, 1912, Marlborough House, Marlborough House, 1912, will bedecorated decorated insidebuilt andin out will be inside and out will decorated and holiday out withbe festive decorinside andfresh fresh holiday with festive decor and with festive decor and fresh holiday greenson onNov. Nov.44and and5. 5.The Theevent event greens greens on Nov. 4 and Thebrownevent willinspire inspire visitors to5. this brownwill visitors to this will inspire visitors to this brownstonecharacter characterhome homewith withdazzling dazzling stone stone character home with dazzling ideason onhow howto todecorate decorate their home ideas their home ideas onholidays. how to decorate their items home forthe the holidays. Manyholiday holiday items for Many for holidays. Many items andthe wellness mats willholiday alsobe be on on and wellness mats will also and wellness mats will also be on display.All Allfunds fundsraised raisedwill willhelp help the the display. display. All funds raised will help the

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Foundation Foundation purchase purchase a new stateFoundation purchase used a newduring stateof-the art ultrasound of-the art ultrasound of-the art ultrasound used during pregnancy. pregnancy. pregnancy. In In aa news news release, James MurIn achairman news release, James Murdock, dock, chairman of the Foundation dock, chairman of the Foundation stated, stated,“The “The Foundation greatly stated, “The Foundation greatly appreciates up appreciates Ellen for opening appreciates Ellen for opening up her home to raise funds for the her home to her home to raise funds for the Women’s Women’s Health Health Unit. Thank you to Women’s Unit. Thank youto to Ellen’s Main truly helping Ellen’s on onHealth Main for Ellen’s on Main for truly helping to bring the the true true spirit of the holiday bring bring the spirit of the holiday season totrue our community.” season to our season to our community.” Tickets are are $25 each and include Tickets Tickets are samplings $25 each and free gourmet free gourmet andinclude a free gourmet samplings and a chance to to win win door prizes. chance Tickets chance to win door prizes. Tickets are available available at Ellen’s on Main or at are are at Health Ellen’s Foundation on Main or at the available Moose Jaw Jaw the Moose the Moose Jaw Health Foundation office at at the the hospital. office office at the hospital.

306-692-4341

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Wistlestop Craft Sale offers one-stop shopping The Whistlestop Craft Sale could be the only stop you will need to make to satisfy everyone on your Christmas list. Offering everything from jewelry to children’s items, Whistlestop helps you to fast-track your Christmas shopping and avoid last minute stress. Whistlestop is Moose Jaw’s largest Christmas craft sale, showcasing the work of 65 crafters and artists from Alberta to Quebec, including some of Saskatchewan’s very best crafters. The crafters come together at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Convention Centre on Oct. 27 and 28 as one of the unique events of Moose Jaw’s Christmas in October weekend. You can expect to discover special handmade crafts, art, and food items that offer plenty of unique Christmas gift ideas. With both new and returning vendors, every visitor is bound to fall in love with at least one artist or product. Jewelry is always a big seller at Whistlestop and this year has some of the finest jewelry makers in Western Canada. Some exhibitors create their own glass beads, some use leather and different metals and some use sparkle balls for each unique creation. Customers will enjoy the many food booths this year. There will be preserves, baking, dips, seasonings, mustards and perogies— perfect for the Christmas season. Add to that soup, honey, fudge and a specialty coffee as you browse through the booths. A Christmas sale wouldn’t be complete without beautiful Christmas decorations and Whistlestop has an unending supply. Colourful signs, wreaths, repurposed items, yard ornaments, snowmen and Santas will be found throughout the Moose Jaw Exhibition Building. Whistlestop is pleased to welcome Moose Jaw’s own Laura Hamilton and her beautiful art work and Darlene Young’s designer pillows. Prairie Fire Photography of Swift Current will have award-winning

prairie photography and Nature’s Touch Frames will showcase their barn-wood frames and antique tin and metal designs. Handmade crafts dominate the sale with items like pottery and stained glass from two local artisans. There will be a variety of crocheted, knitted and sewn articles available, and each booth offers its own style. Just in time for winter, SLM Alpacas has warm alpaca products and Calgary’s Lucy Designs will be showcasing her purses and poncho wraps. Custom-made belts and buckles will also be available at this year’s sale. If you have a new baby in the family, there will be several booths with baby items, including returning exhibitor Fairy Godmother’s Creations, which specializes in blankets, children’s clothing and toys. Whistlestop will also be the place to purchase designer doll clothing, children’s hats and mitts, and children’s spe-

cialty items such as growth charts and quilts. Two booths that you will want to see are the woodworking booths of Harvey Parkinson and Peter Wollf. Their creations include park benches, trunks, scrollwork clocks and music boxes. There is so much to experience at the 18th Whistlestop Craft Sale: Christmas ornaments, knitting, stained glass, jewelry, woodwork, baking, specialty coffees, art, health and beauty products — a multitude of crafts, food and art. Shelley Bader, owner and director of Whistlestop is pleased to present this year’s amazing and talented group of exhibitors. Whistlestop will open Fri., Oct. 27 from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Sat., Oct. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 and parking is free of charge. For more information, contact Whistlestop at 306-692-1509. Submitted by the Whistlestop Craft Sale.

Moose Jaw Exhibition Convention Centre Friday: 2:00 - 9:00 p.m. Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Admission $5.00

H OURLY D OORPRIZE D RAWS

P H O T O S C O U RT E SY W H I S T L E S T O P C R A F T S A L E

FOR MORE INFORMATION 306-692-1509

PRINTED BY QUICK PRINTING - MOOSE JAW

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The colour of

CHRISTMAS Hey Kids! Colour this moose and his packages to help make them beautiful for delivery on Christmas Eve!

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An angel ascends over the stage during the climactic Nativity scene in Briercrest College’s 2016 production of A Christmas Prodigal. S U P P L I E D P H O T O

A Briercrest Christmas Retrieving the Lost Sheep in

BY M I C H A E L K I N G

The parable of the lost sheep vividly unfolds in a small turn-of-the-century town in A Briercrest Christmas presents Lost in the Snow, an original dramatic musical presented by Briercrest College and Seminary in Caronport, Saskatchewan. Kick off the Christmas season on Dec. 1 to 3 in Briercrest College’s historic Hildebrand Chapel and witness the story of a man who would give everything to recover that which is most precious to him. A small town in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains bustles with anticipation for the Christmas season. A travelling nurse arrives and discovers the town, and its colourful residents, in the throes of preparations for the annual bake sale and a fundraiser for a new church bell. A young couple in love who are separated by class, a little girl who loses her cherished pet and a father who cannot find it in his heart to forgive, struggle to make sense of the circumstances surrounding each of them. Despite a devastating snow

storm, the town draws together in a spirit of unity and Christmas charity, and one man is forced to choose between his own prejudice and the welfare of his family. Lost in the Snow is a story of hope, forgiveness and reconciliation that will warm your heart and prepare you for the Christmas season. “When someone loses something that’s precious to them,” explains artistic director Ron de Jager, “they’ll go to incredible lengths to get it back. We see that in this story on a few levels, and we’re reminded of how much more God sacrificed to save us.” This year’s production is a family-friendly show that’s fun for all ages and filled with exciting sights, sounds, and music. A Briercrest Christmas is the largest and most spectacular production of its kind in Saskatchewan. The production features a full cast and mass choir of close to one hundred singers, orchestra, expansive sets, beautiful costumes, and music that will bring audiences to the heart of Christmas in the Rocky Mountains. The dramatic produc-

tion is interspersed with traditional Christmas carols and characteristic tunes of the mountain region. In addition to the musical, A Briercrest Christmas will host the annual Christmas Craft Sale and Turkey Dinner. The craft sale runs each day of the performances, featuring booths from local artists and craftspeople where musical attendees can complete their Christmas shopping with beautifully unique gifts. The Turkey Dinner will run before each evening performance; seating is limited for the dinner, so be sure to get your tickets today! Lost in the Snow will be presented Dec. 1 and 2 at 7 p.m., and Dec. 2 and 3 at 2:30 p.m. Turkey Dinners take place Dec. 1 and 2 at 4:30 p.m. Tickets for the performances are $18 for adults; $12 for children; $50 family rate (two adults, two children). Tickets for the performances and turkey dinner are $42 for adults, and $35 for children. To purchase your tickets, call 1-888-462-2202 or visit www.Briercrest.ca/Christmas.

A BRIERCREST CHRISTMAS PRESENTS

A CHRISTMAS PARABLE

An Original Dramatic Musical ARTISTIC DIRECTOR :

Ron de Jager

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Briercrest College & Seminary, Caronport SK Musical Performance | Turkey Dinner | Christmas Craft Sale For more information call or visit: 1.888.462.2202

BRIERCREST.CA/CHRISTMAS

This article was submitted by Briercrest College and Seminary. REG00260706_1_1

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Ahoy! The fun is about to set sail with holiday offerings from Moose Jaw’s own RuBarb Productions. With the sights and sounds of Christmas in October permeating the atmosphere in and around Moose Jaw, RuBarb Productions gets in the spirit with events that will definitely float your boat. The sails unfurl on Oct. 28 with a Gala Fundraiser at Temple Gardens Mineral Spa. Dine with the captain and enjoy the floor show in the 1920’s murder mystery cruise. It’s an elegant evening of dinner and theatre to raise funds for Moose Jaw’s premiere professional theatre company. The evening will include prizes for best costumes, as well as silent and live auctions. Tax receipts are provided for a portion of the ticket price as well as any dona-

tions made that evening. The youngsters set sail the next day with a Superheroes and Princesses Mini-cruise for Kids. The event will feature costumes, brunch, show and boatfuls of fun. As the actual holiday season nears, the RuBarb School of Performing Arts will get ready to help Santa with Elf Jr. - The Musical on Dec. 7 to 9 at the Mae Wilson Theatre. Based on the beloved holiday film written by David Berenbaum, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Based on the book by Thomas Meehan and Bob Martin; music by Matthew Sklar; lyrics by Chad Beguelin. Young and old, no one will be left out to sea with all the great offerings by RuBarb Productions this holiday season.

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PROFESSIONAL & YOUTH THEATRE IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN MOOSE JAW

8 2017-201N

SEASOTS

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LE ON SA W NO 2017 | 2018 SEASON

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SUPERHEROES & PRINCESSES

MINI-CRUISE FOR KIDS

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RUBARB SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS SERIES

pm , 2017 • 6:00 OCTOBER 28 A MINER AL SP

ELF THE MUSICAL JR. December 7-9, 2017

NOT INCLUDED in Season Subscription

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You can also Give Someone the Gift of Musical Education!

BOX OFFICE Visit our New Location at the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre! Lower Level, 217 Main Street North, Moose Jaw, SK Phone 306.693.1771 Email tickets@rubarb.ca

The RuBarb elves get ready for the season. RU BA R B P ROD UCT IONS REG00260705_1_1

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

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OCTOBER

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