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Full throttle ahead: Mortlach ATV derby set for April 11
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Mortlach Recreation Board is once again turning to the trails for a community fundraiser, with its annual ATV derby set for April 11 in support of ongoing upgrades to the village rink.
The event, now a spring tradition in the area, will feature a roughly 50-kilometre ride through local terrain, including coulees and mud sections, with a shotgun start scheduled for noon from the Centennial Rink. Registration will take place the morning of the event, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
One of the event’s organizers, Cory Newsham, said participants can expect a familiar experience, with the course and format remaining largely unchanged.
“It’s another ATV rally that runs south of Mortlach, in the hills,” Newsham said. “The course and format are pretty much the same as in previous years.”
The derby is open to a range of offroad vehicles, including side-by-sides, quads, and dirt bikes, with entry set at $20 per rider and $10 for participants aged 15 and under. Registration is handled entirely on-site, with no pre-registration required.
Organizers report steady interest leading up to the event, consistent with past years that have drawn large crowds from across southern Saskatchewan.
“Interest seems to be about the same so far, based on the feedback we’re getting,” he added.
Riders kick up mud during a previous Mortlach ATV derby. The annual event returns April 11, raising funds for upgrades to the community rink. Photo by: Lindsay Newsham/Facebook
Proceeds from the derby will support the Mortlach Recreation Board, a volunteer-led group responsible for maintaining and operating the community’s Centennial Rink and organizing local events throughout the year.
“Proceeds go toward maintaining and upgrading the local Centennial Rink,” Newsham said. “Previous fundraisers helped install a new kitchen in the facility.”
While specific projects for this year’s fundraising have not yet been finalized, the funds will continue to support facility improvements and help ensure the rink remains a central gathering place for the community.
Organized as a full-day outing, the event will include a range of activities and meals throughout the day. A hot dog lunch provided by Newsham Electric Ltd.
is planned for the midway stop, while the Mortlach First Responders will serve breakfast ahead of the ride and supper afterward. Beer gardens will round out the day at the rink.
Participants can also take part in optional game cards, a 50/50 draw, and cash prize opportunities, including payouts based on the highest and lowest numbers collected during the ride.
Participants are asked to come prepared, with the event operating on a cashonly basis. Machines must be cleaned before arrival to help prevent the spread of clubroot, an invasive soil-borne disease that can impact local crops, and all riders will need to sign a waiver before taking to the course. DOT-approved helmets are required, with minors needing a parent or legal guardian’s signature.
Newsham said the derby continues to be as much about community as it is about recreation.
“It’s definitely a fun day for families and anyone who wants to take part,” he said. “It’s a great cause, and we’d love to see everyone enjoy themselves.”
Further information and updates are available on the “Mortlach ATV Derby” Facebook page. The Mortlach Centennial Rink is located at 110 Coteau Avenue on the north end of the village, just off Highway 1, approximately 40 kilometres west of Moose Jaw.
Rising demand forces Moose Jaw & District Food Bank to cut visit frequency
The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank will reduce how often clients can access its services beginning April 1, as rising demand and declining donations place increasing strain on the organization.
In a statement released March 24, executive director Jason Moore said the change reflects both local pressures and broader trends seen across the country.
“Over the past four years, the need in our community has grown at a pace we have never seen before. Visits to the food bank have increased by more than 150 per cent. We are now seeing over 1,000 visits every month, and one third of the individuals we serve are children. Each month, more than 50 new households are reaching out for support for the first time.”
Under the new model, clients will be able to access the food bank once per month instead of twice. Food quantities will also be adjusted, and basic verification steps — including confirming each client’s address and household size — will be introduced.
Moore said the decision was not
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
made lightly, but reflects a growing gap between demand and available resources.
“While the need continues to rise, the resources required to meet that need are not keeping pace. Monetary donations have decreased by approximately
20 per cent compared to last year, and food donations have remained largely unchanged. At the same time, demand has continued to grow significantly.”
The organization had previously implemented a number of measures to stabilize operations, including strengthening inventory controls, forming new partnerships, and transitioning to a client-choice shopping model. While those efforts helped stabilize operations at existing demand levels, Moore said they are no longer sufficient as demand continues to rise beyond the organization’s capacity.
“When we look at this reality clearly, we are faced with a difficult truth. We can no longer sustain our current level of service in a way that meets the growing need.”
The food bank attributes the surge in demand to ongoing economic pressures affecting households across the country, including rising costs for food, housing,
income levels that have not kept pace.
“We are seeing more seniors on fixed incomes, more working families, and more individuals who have never accessed a food bank before now needing support. For many, this is not a temporary situation, but an ongoing gap between income and the true cost of living.”
Moore emphasized that the changes are intended to preserve access for as many people as possible over the long term.
“These changes are not about limiting support, but about ensuring that we can continue to serve as many people as possible in a sustainable way.”
The statement also includes a broader call for action, urging governments to address the underlying causes of food insecurity.
“I will say this again, food banks were never meant to carry this level of responsibility, and we cannot continue to fill a growing gap that requires systemic solutions.”
Despite the challenges, Moore expressed gratitude for ongoing community support, noting the organization’s reliance on donors, volunteers, and partners.
“This organization exists because of this community. Our donors, partners, volunteers, and supporters have stood beside us through every challenge,” he said. “We will continue to do everything we can, with what we have, for as long as we can.”
The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West and can be reached at 306-6922911. For more information, visit “Moose Jaw and District Food Bank” on
The Moose Jaw & District Food Bank is adjusting its services beginning April 1, reducing client visits as rising demand and declining donations place increased strain on the organization. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Please
306-693-4430 gale toews@raymondjames ca raymondjames.ca/ GaleToewsPrivateWealthManagement
Living Sky Card Show set to level up with biggest event yet in Moose Jaw
Card collectors, hobbyists, and pop culture enthusiasts will have a chance to browse, trade, and connect later this month as the Living Sky Collectibles Card Show returns to Moose Jaw with its largest event to date.
The third edition of the show is set for April 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cosmo Centre, featuring more than 60 tables of sports cards, trading card games, and collectibles. Admission is by donation, with proceeds supporting Hunger in Moose Jaw.
Organizer Brett Behm said the event has continued to grow since its earlier shows, with strong turnout and increasing vendor interest driving this year’s expansion.
“We hosted one last March and had over 500 attendees. We’re hoping for even greater capacity this time. We’ve increased our vendor tables to 70, so we should have more than 40 vendors in total,” he said.
The show will feature a wide range of items appealing to both seasoned collectors and newcomers, including sports cards across multiple leagues and trading card games such as Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, and Yu-Gi-Oh.
In addition to traditional card vendors, this year’s event will introduce a broader mix of collectible and handmade goods, reflecting growing interest in the hobby community.
“People will be bringing Beanie Babies, and there will also be woodwork, fudge, macramé, and 3D-print-
Centre, building on the success of previous shows that reached full capacity.
“The other hall was completely full at the last show, so we decided to open up the smaller hall to increase vendor capacity as well,” Behm said.
Vendors will primarily be from Moose Jaw and across Saskatchewan, though the event also continues to attract participants from outside the province.
“I think we have someone coming from Winnipeg who has attended past shows and will be back again,
along with vendors from across the province, including Saskatoon and Moose Jaw,” Behm said.
The show reflects broader trends within the collectibles market, with certain segments experiencing renewed interest.
“Pokémon is very popular right now. It seems to be the trend that everyone is collecting Pokémon, whether they’re young or old,” he said. “Sports cards are always up and down, but we’re seeing an upward trend right now, and they’re very season-based as well.”
In addition to buying, selling, and trading opportunities, attendees can expect door prizes throughout the day, with draws taking place every hour. Prizes will include donations from local businesses as well as items provided by organizers.
With vendor tables now fully booked, the event is expected to draw a strong crowd.
“Currently, we have a short waiting list for vendors, so there may still be an opportunity for people to get in if anyone backs out,” he added.
Behm said the shift to a donation-based entry model is about giving back to the community.
“It’s a great cause, and we wanted to give back to the community. Last year we had free admission, but we decided to choose a charity that would help locals in our community,” he said.
For more information, visit “Living Sky Collectibles” on Facebook or @livingskycollectibles on Instagram. For table bookings, call 306-690-1329.
The Cosmo Centre is located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
GALE TOEWS, Financial Advisor
Living Sky Collectibles Card Show returns to Moose Jaw on April 26, featuring sports cards, trading card games, and collectibles. Photo by: Living Sky Collectibles/ Facebook
Editor’s Note
JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR
We are in the holiest of holiday seasons for Christians with the celebration of Easter this weekend.
I remember fondly the memories made as a child, and in the Ukrainian tradition they were very special. Certainly faith and food were two of the main components of the celebration. To this day, some of the same dishes grace my Easter table, especially when we are together with family.
I was thinking about how important it is to establish traditions with our families so that they feel a sense of heritage and can take those special memories and recreate them as they grow up and raise families of their own.
It’s very true that the window to shape a child is very short and what we do in those years
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has great impact in moulding the person they become. The traditions we establish and share create experiences that build consistency in a family, giving kids identity and a sense of belonging that they aren’t soon to forget.
Traditions are like anchors, whether it’s Sunday dinners, holiday rituals, or annual trips; they ground a person. Kids come to appreciate them and that helps build a sense of security. I believe a child who feels secure at home tends to carry more confidence into the world. They know who they are and where they come from. Later in life, those same traditions often get repeated, not out of obligation, but because they meant something. That’s how values get passed down without lectures—you live them.
Now add travel and shared experiences, and it goes up another level. When you take your kids out of the daily grind and put them in a new environment—whether it’s a beach, a road trip, or even a simple weekend away—you remove
distractions. No routines, no noise, just time together. That’s where real bonding happens. Kids remember moments, not things. They remember laughing in a hotel room, trying new food, getting lost and figuring it out together. Those experiences build trust and connection. You’re not just a parent in those moments— you’re part of their adventure. That changes the relationship.
There’s also a bigger payoff. Kids who grow up with strong family bonds and positive shared experiences tend to handle stress better, build stronger relationships, and carry a more grounded outlook on life.
And in it all, traditions create roots, and shared experiences build the relationship. If you do both, you’ll give your kids something that lasts—a strong identity, real connection, and memories they’ll choose to take with them through their lives.
Wishing you all a wonderful Easter season!
PROVINCIAL COURT REPORT
Woman gets nearly year in jail in connection with attempted murder
Jason G. Antonio - For the Moose Jaw Express
A Moose Jaw woman will spend nearly a year in jail for her role in an attempted murder that occurred last July at a motel on the North Service Road.
Meagan Windover, 30, appeared by video in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on March 25, where Judge David Chow sentenced her to 20 months in a provincial jail, followed by 24 months of probation.
However, because she had spent 252 days in custody after her arrest, Judge Chow credited her with 378 enhanced days, leaving her with 222 days to serve. He also tacked on another 60 days for other crimes to which she pleaded guilty, giving her a total jail time of 282 days.
The Crown had asked for three years in a federal jail, while the defence had asked for time served and
two years of probation.
Windover — whom the police initially charged with attempted murder — pleaded guilty in early March to acting as an accessory after the fact to the commission of an indictable offence, specifically, the attempted murder of a man on July 14, 2025, in the Moose Jaw Inn parking lot.
Meanwhile, her accomplice, an 18-year-old youth, pleaded guilty in January to attempted murder and was sentenced to three years — the maximum allowed — in custody under the YCJA’s Intensive Rehabilitative Custody and Supervision (IRCS) Program.
Judge Chow reviewed Windover’s criminal record, which began in 2014 and featured “a burst of criminal activity” that year and in 2015, with her last charge in 2020.
He also noted that she had a lengthy history of failing to comply with court orders.
Windover has been sober since her arrest, while she has expressed remorse toward the victim and has accepted responsibility by taking steps to improve her life, the judge said.
Judge Chow noted that a community jail sentence was inappropriate due to Windover’s reported risk to reoffend, while a federal jail sentence was “disproportionate” to Windover’s offence of being an accessory after the fact to attempted murder versus actual murder.
“Denunciation, specific and general deterrence, and rehabilitation can all be accomplished with a further period of time in a provincial correctional (centre),” Judge Chow added.
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Finalists announced for 2026 Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce has unveiled the finalists for the 2026 Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards (MJBEX), highlighting a diverse group of local businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations set to be recognized at next month’s gala.
This year’s awards gala, presented by WOW Factor Media, is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, at the Temple Gardens Centre, with festivities beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The awards program celebrates achievement across a range of sectors, with finalists representing excellence in customer service, innovation, com-
munity impact, and business leadership throughout Moose Jaw.
Among the categories announced to date is the Service Excellence Award, sponsored by the City of Moose Jaw. Finalists in that category include Bellezza Moda Moose Jaw, Panda Tire & Auto, Pro Works Painting, Rosie’s On River Street, The Blue Line Hockey Shop, and WINMAR Moose Jaw – Property Restoration Specialists.
The Young Entrepreneur Award, sponsored by South Central Community Futures, features five finalists: Beauty Avenue Co., Bellezza Moda Moose Jaw, Ink Puddle Studio, Katie Kat Modifications, and Kohl’s Yard Care. In the non-profit sector, the Impact Award, sponsored by Blue Whale Financial Solutions Inc., recognizes organizations making a meaningful difference in the community. Finalists
include Inclusion Moose Jaw, Joe’s Place Youth Centre, KidSport Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw Family Services Inc., Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership, Moose Jaw & District Seniors Association, and the Rotary Club of Moose Jaw Wakamow.
The Marketing Award, sponsored by Simpson Seeds Inc., includes three finalists: Lions Creek Moose Jaw, Murray GM Moose Jaw, and Urban Cellars Moose Jaw.
Meanwhile, the Hell Yeah Award, sponsored by Scotiabank, highlights businesses that have made a strong impression on customers through atmosphere, service, or overall experience. Finalists in that category are Against The Grain Artisan Gallery & Tattoos, Houston Pizza Moose Jaw, and Southwest Day Care & Early Learning Centre Inc.
In addition to the judged categories, this year’s event will once again feature a People’s Choice Award, sponsored by Rosie’s On River Street. The award will be decided by online public vote and recognizes a locally owned finalist business that has built a loyal customer following. Voting is expected to take place in the week leading up to the gala.
Hosted annually by the Chamber, the MJBEX Awards bring together business leaders, community partners, and
residents for an evening of recognition and networking. The program aims to spotlight organizations that not only demonstrate operational excellence, but also contribute to the broader economic, social, and cultural fabric of the city.
The April 22 event will include a cocktail hour, banquet, and formal awards presentation, followed by an opportunity for attendees to connect and celebrate with finalists and fellow community members.
Tickets are available through the Chamber, with seating arranged in reserved tables of eight. For more information, find the link on the “Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce” Facebook page, visit MJChamber.com, or call 306-692-6414.
The awards gala will be held at the Temple Gardens Centre, located at 110 First Avenue Northwest.
Michael Penner Purple Shield Representative
By Joyce 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.
Will my past Easter outfits meet today’s expectations? Reflective Moments
One day recently a friend posted a photograph on Facebook that showed the way it used to be, back in the olden days of Easter fashion.
The photograph could have been taken from my own family photo album. In this particular moment in time, three young girls, maybe around Grade One age, were dressed up and ready to head to church on Easter Sunday.
The caption on the photo asked: “Does this bring back memories?” Of course the answer was “yes.”
In fact, I had recently gone through some of the boxes of photos in the closet, and while looking for another photo, I saw for myself what I, as a child, wore on Easter Sunday.
In the photo, I looked prim and proper, standing there in the yard where I had likely been told to stay put, not to get my clothes and shoes dirty. Temptation was nearby for there in the yard was a sandbox, a threewheeled bicycle, some small chairs and a table where great
These youngsters had on what appeared to be new spring time dresses, with spring coats, their feet covered with one-roll socks and stuffed into brand new oxfords, flowery hats on the tiny heads. And purses over their bent arms, carried just like their mothers and grandmothers carried their own purses.
PROPERTY FOR SALE BY TENDER
The Town of Central Butte o ers for sale the following Tax Title property:
Legal Description: Lot 12 Block 3 Plan AD912
Civic Address: 82 Second Ave E
Legal Description: Lot 2 Block 14 Plan EX1295
Civic Address: 365 Saskatchewan St
Legal Description: Lot 24 Block 1 Plan AD912
Civic Address: 53 Second Ave W
All tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Property Tender” addressed to:
Town of Central Butte Box 10 Central Butte, SK S0H 0T0 281 Main St. Tenders must be received at the Central Butte Town O ce, 281 Main Street, Central Butte SK on or before Tuesday May 19th 2026 by 2:00 p.m. A cheque payable to the Town of Central Butte for the tender amount must accompany the tender.
Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Dated this 25th day of March 2026
Kyle Van Den Bosch CAO, Town of Central Butte
tea parties were often held. I resited temptation because I knew my Mother would not have been amused if one speck of dust settled on my new outfit. That outfit, if I recall, was a dusty-orange (black and white photos don’t provide those colour-related details.) It included a double-breasted coat with puffy shoulders and trim that was matched on the sleeves. The skirt was flared and the collar was buttoned nearly to the choking point. My exterior ensemble was topped off with a hat with matching detailing on the brim. I had my hands folded neatly at the waist. It appears I was wearing brown shoes with leggings instead of rolled white socks. Under the coat was a top and skirt in lighter tones, likely made by the in-house seamstress from material stored in mothballs in the trunk.
No doubt about it — I was ready to march proudly into the school house where Sunday services were held. In my pocket would have been a clean Kleenex and a dime to put into the Easter collection plate.
In another Easter-related photo I am wearing a flowered dress with puffed sleeves trimmed with ribbons. Again I wore those horrid leotards on my legs with brown oxfords. Atop my head it appears I am wearing my mother’s gardening hat but I had a huge smile on my face so maybe the hat wasn’t from the garden.
The photo box also yielded a third photo that might have been from a long-ago Easter. Again I have on a spring dress but this time I have on white socks with the required single roll-down, brown shoes and no hat. There’s a tiny purse on the
NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS VILLAGE OF TUGASKE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the o ce(s) of:
COUNCILLOR: Village of Tugaske Number to be elected: One (1)
will be received by the undersigned at the municipal o ce located at 110 Qu' Appelle Street, Tugaske, Sask., during regular business hours of 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday until Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 4:00 pm.
Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location: Municipal O ce, 110 Qu 'Appelle Street, Tugaske, Sask.
Dated this 27th day of March, 2026.
Daryl Dean Returning O
cer
ground beside me as I hold up a plaque reading “May the Lord bless you and love you.” I cannot recall the significance of the plaque nor where it might have ended up after all the years that have gone by.
Fast forward to the present day and I wonder what children — and adults too — in this decade will be wearing to Easter Sunday services. I will find out by standing at our kitchen window watching the congregation enter the church across the street.
No one of my acquaintances has been discussing Easter outfits for 2026 but I’m pretty sure no one will be wearing their Mother’s wide-brimmed gardening hat.
Joyce Walter can be reached at a ronjoy@sasktel.net
“Ocean is more ancient than the mountains, and freighted with the memories and the dreams of Time.”
-- H. P. Lovecraft
BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS REPORT
Moose Jaw Police Service budget on track in early 2026, report says
The Moose Jaw Police Service remains on track financially through the first two months of 2026, with no major concerns identified in its latest operating budget report.
The update was presented during the March 25 meeting of the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners, where administration reported that spending and revenues are aligning with projections.
Year-to-date figures show expenditures of $2.84 million against an annual budget of $17.49 million, representing roughly 16 per cent of planned spending.
On the revenue side, the service has brought in $788,641 toward a projected $2.85 million, or about 27.7 per cent of its annual target.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Chief Robert Davis told the board there was “nothing really out of the ordinary” in the report.
Financial administrator Lisa Renwick said the service has not encountered any significant issues so far in 2026.
“Everything right now is tracking very well. There’s been no red flags on anything,” Renwick said.
Among the larger expense categories, labour costs totalled $1.83 million year-to-date, with employee benefits adding another $468,778. Together, those categories account for the majority of early-year spending.
One area showing higher early spending is psychological services, which has reached $36,250 of its $60,000 annual budget, or just over 60 per cent. How-
ever, most other categories remain well below projected totals at this stage of the year.
Provincial funding remains the largest source of revenue, with $406,632 received so far out of a planned $1.77 million. The service has already received the full $330,000 contribution from the city’s traffic safety reserve for the year.
Renwick noted that some line items may appear over budget early in the year due to how funding is allocated, including cleaning costs tied to provincial funding that are offset elsewhere in the budget.
The board voted to receive and file the report without further discussion.
Police report lower February crime statistics, highlight gaps in reporting
Crime statistics in Moose Jaw showed an overall decline in February, though police officials say underreporting affects how incidents are tracked and investigated.
A monthly statistical report presented at the March 25 meeting of the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners showed both violent and property-related offences were trending downward compared to the previous year. Year-to-date figures indicate crimes against the person decreased 5.7 per cent, while crimes against property dropped 19.6 per cent. Calls for service in February also declined 13.6 per cent compared to February 2025.
Chief Robert Davis said the figures reflect broader patterns but cautioned that some increases require further analysis. Among those was a rise in assaults against police, which reached five incidents since Jan. 1.
“In the last month, three of the incidents are attributed to one individual,” Davis said. “While it looks like a significant percentage increase, don’t be too alarmed … none of the officers have been severely injured …”
Vehicle thefts also increased, rising to six incidents in February 2026 compared to none in February 2025, with year-to-date totals climbing to 13 from four the previous year. Davis said further review is needed to determine whether vehicles are being recovered and where incidents are occurring.
Drug-related incidents also rose, with year-to-date incidents increasing to four from two in 2025, a trend Davis attributed in part to enforcement activity.
“The more the officers are out there making the busts, that number is going to increase,” he said.
Cold weather linked to reduced crime
The decline in calls for service was attributed in part to seasonal conditions, with colder temperatures limiting opportunities for certain types of crime.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Police
“Based on my many years of experience, when you have those cold snaps, typically everything tends to drop. People are indoors; they don’t want to be outdoors,” Davis said. “Those crimes of opportunity that typically would happen outside, those largely just slow down.”
Reporting gaps highlighted through vandalism
While overall reported crime trends are down, police say underreporting remains a challenge, particularly for property-related offences such as vandalism. Deputy Chief Rick Johns said unreported incidents limit response times and the ability to connect related occurrences.
“By them not reporting it, it doesn’t allow us a timely response, especially as it’s happening or shortly thereafter … so we’re often reporting things after the fact,” Johns said. “If we catch, say, someone damaging a parking meter on Athabasca Street West … but there’s unreported (damages) that same night on Fair-
ford (Street) that we’re not aware of, we don’t have that linkage or any way to deal with that, right?”
Police said recent enforcement efforts have highlighted the role of public involvement. Mayor and board chair James Murdock said a recent parking meter vandalism incident on the zero block of Stadacona Street West led to an arrest after a citizen recorded the act and shared the footage with police.
“A witness … saw it happening, took a video, sent it to the police service, and that individual was arrested the next day,” Murdock said.
Police are encouraging residents to report incidents as they occur and, when safe to do so, document suspects rather than only the damage.
“The quality of photos that people are getting on their phones nowadays is unbelievable,” Davis said. “You don’t even have to put yourself into harm’s way — you can be 100 meters away and get a really clear, vivid picture. … If (residents) can get a picture of a face and what they’re wearing, that helps us.”
For emergencies or crimes in progress, call 911. Non-emergency incidents can be reported to the Moose Jaw Police Service at 306-694-7600, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
say overall crime declined in February, but underreporting remains a challenge for investigations. Photo by: Aaron Walker
By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose
Going Vertical
Spring is on the way! Now is the time to take a moment to say – where is my garden going this season?
Space in the garden is always a challenge so this spring, I encourage you to “reach for the sky and go vertical!” You might be wondering what I mean by vertical gardening which is simply exploiting the vertical space instead of relying on the horizontal which is the more traditional way to garden. Going vertical will give you more space but it is also a way to make your garden more attractive and more accessible. Imagine harvesting strawberries while standing straight up – instead of crawling along the ground.
If you are an avid garden grazer, then vertical gardening has even more advantages. The fruit or vegetables that you harvest will be cleaner as they are not in direct contact with the ground. You will also find that you are losing less fruit/vegetables to moisture and rot again due to less contact directly with the soil. Air circulation is definitely better as well as any breeze will waft through those plants that are vertical. The only drawback to going vertical is you may have to water more often. However, perhaps it is the ideal time to install a simple irrigation system that suits your personal needs!
From the perspective of one who was rural and now is urban – adjusting to a much smaller space and still managing to grow everything desired is challenging. How do you make the best use of the space you have? One solution that is definitely worth trying is to go vertical. Any plant that is a sprawled, a natural climber or needs staking can easily be grown vertically – with the suitable support.
Vertical elements can be utilized as working functions of the garden. They
work well to screen unpleasant areas in the landscape; can provide shade or shelter from the wind; can soften stark vertical surfaces; can define use areas in the garden and can provide movement. Looking outside right now to your garden space might help to encourage you to think about going vertical. If you think of the trees in your landscape, they are an element that is always visible. If you incorporate other vertical elements in your garden, then those too will always be visible in every season - from both inside and out. After all, enjoying the garden in winter, we most often enjoy the view from inside your home where it is warm. Thus, elements
need to be more prominent as they are not viewed in close quarters.
Think about incorporating some structure that has beauty itself. Ensure that the structure is suitable for the plant material it supports. Some easy plants to use for your vertical garden include: cucumbers, sweet peas, tomatoes, melons, peas, pole beans, black-eyed Susan vine, morning glory climbing snapdragons, hyacinth bean, nasturtium, passion flower, grapes, Virginia creeper, hops, and more!!! Just ensure that you supply the suitable structure and remember that some plants need to be tied to the structure while others entwine themselves to the support.
So, this season……. look ahead and plan to go vertical!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail.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…
New habitat fee introduced ahead of 2026 fishing season in southern Saskatchewan
As anglers in southern Saskatchewan prepare for the upcoming open water fishing season, a new provincial fee will be introduced alongside the annual licence renewal period, marking one of the most notable changes for 2026.
The current angling licence year expires March 31. For residents in the Moose Jaw area, which falls within the southern management zone, the fishing season opens May 5 and runs through the end of March 2027.
Beginning with the 2026–27 season, anglers purchasing a licence will also be required to obtain a new Angling Habitat Certificate. According to the Government of Saskatchewan, the certificate will cost $20 when purchasing an annual licence and $5 for one- or three-day permits.
The province stated that the additional fee aligns angling with existing hunting requirements and is intended to
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
support long-term investment in Saskatchewan’s fisheries.
“The extension of the Habitat Certificate to angling licences is expected to generate an additional $2.1 million annually,” the Ministry of Environment said in its summary of 2026–27 fee changes.
“All revenue will be deposited into the Fish and Wildlife Development Fund to support modernization and expansion at the fish hatchery and support long-term fisheries stocking and enhancement activities.”
Some exemptions will remain in place. Saskatchewan residents aged 65 and older, who are not required to hold an angling licence, will also be exempt from the new certificate requirement.
Beyond licensing changes, anglers are also being reminded to review catch limits and regulations before heading out on the water.
Provincial guidelines state that anglers may possess no more than one daily limit of each species at any time, including fish that have been eaten, stored, or transported.
For commonly targeted species in southern Saskatchewan, general limits include four walleye, with only one exceeding 55 centimetres, five northern pike, with only one exceeding 75 centimetres, and 25 perch. Several species, including bass and sturgeon, remain catch-and-release only.
Officials also caution that regulations can vary by water body, with some lakes and rivers subject to additional restrictions that must be followed.
Responsible angling practices remain a key focus heading into the new season, particularly when releasing fish.
“Even with careful handling, up to 10 per cent of released fish die after-
wards,” the provincial Anglers Guide noted, encouraging fishers to limit overall catch and avoid exceeding daily limits through catch-and-release mortality.
Anglers are also reminded to follow rules related to bait use, equipment, and the transport of fish, as well as to take steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by cleaning, draining, and drying equipment between trips.
Licences can be purchased through the province’s Hunting, Angling, and Trapping License system (HAL) at SaskatchewanHAL.ca, by phone at 1-855848-4773, or through authorized vendors.
More information, including full regulations and water-specific rules, is available through the Government of Saskatchewan’s fishing portal at Saskatchewan.ca/fishing.
Jaw Express
Sask. author explores grief and healing in ‘The Morning I Walked Her Home’
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A deeply personal story of loss, love, and healing is reaching readers across Saskatchewan, offering comfort to those navigating grief, along with a quiet reminder that no one has to carry it alone.
In The Morning I Walked Her Home, author Shelley Fraser reflects on a 44-year relationship with a teacher who became a steady source of guidance and support during a difficult childhood. While the story unfolds in the small northern Saskatchewan community of Debden, near Prince Albert, its themes of grief, resilience, and the lasting impact of meaningful relationships speak to experiences shared everywhere.
“It’s about grief and loss, in a sense,” Fraser said. “It’s also about a mentor I had growing up … when you have positive people in your life, it can certainly make a difference.”
At the heart of the memoir is a relationship that began in a moment of vulnerability. As a young student navigating an unstable home life, Fraser found an unexpected sense of safety in a Catholic sister who became far more than a teacher.
“I was so drawn to her … because
of her caring nature, how she cared, (and) because I lacked that in my own life. She was able to provide that,” Fraser said. “My parents were divorced and she became my attachment, in a sense.”
What started in the classroom grew into a lifelong bond, one that endured years of separation before drawing them back together for a final chapter at the end of her mentor’s life.
That connection is what Fraser hopes readers will recognize in their own lives.
“Some relationships don’t fit into easy words, but they shape us forever,” she wrote on her website. “This story is about that kind of connection, and what it means to carry it forward.”
Years later, after becoming a teacher herself, Fraser was prompted to reconnect through one of her own students who knew her former mentor. When they reunited, she spent four months at her mentor’s side in a care home, a time she described as both painful and profoundly meaningful.
“It was very painful because I was the only one with her when she passed,” she said. “But it was … an amazing experience.”
The book, released in February, is Fraser’s first full-length work after previously writing short stories.
“It was hard to do because I had to
go back and relive a lot of those painful memories,” she said. “But at the same time … it was very therapeutic.”
At its core, the memoir explores grief not as a single experience, but as something deeply personal.
“Grief is different for everybody. We all process it differently,” Fraser said. “The deeper your attachment to someone, the more it’s going to hurt.”
That message carries real weight for readers, as loss, in its many forms, is something nearly everyone will face at some point in their lives.
“It doesn’t necessarily have to be the loss of someone through death,” she added. “It can be the loss of a job. It could be the loss of a career … or the loss of a relationship.”
In the book’s later chapters, Fraser shifts from reflection to guidance, offering gentle, practical ways for readers to keep moving forward while still carrying the weight of loss.
For Fraser, that sense of
remembrance took shape in a memorial bench created in honour of her mentor, offering a quiet place to remember the time they shared together.
While the memoir is already gaining traction internationally, Fraser hopes stories like hers will connect locally as well, offering comfort and perspective to readers facing similar experiences.
“We’re all going to lose somebody who is important to us,” she said, noting that the book may not feel immediately relevant to all readers, but could take on greater meaning over time. “I think the only thing I would say to people is just stay present in your life,” she added. “Cherish the relationships you have now … because life is short.”
The Morning I Walked Her Home is available through online retailers, including Amazon.ca. For more information, visit AuthorShelleyLyn. com.
Author Shelley Fraser reflects on grief, healing, and a lifelong mentor relationship in her memoir “The Morning I Walked Her Home.” Photo by: Shelley Fraser/ Submitted
Provincial budget would balance without interest expense
Just over 20 years ago the Government of Saskatchewan released its first ever budget with $1 billion of spending.
Just a few days ago the province released a budget with $22.2 billon spending — an
increase averaging one billion dollars a year.
The ballooning budget for this year is $818 million short of revenues to balance it.
The taxpayers of this province are paying $994 million in
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 15th day of April 2026, at 7:00 o'clock in the evening.
Tim Forer
Secretary treasurer
Utopia C & D
P.O. Box 366
Avonlea, Sask.
SOH OCO
THE UTOPIA CONSERVATION & DEVELOPMENT AREA AUTHORITY ASSESSMENT ROLL - 2026
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 11th day of March, 2026.
Tim Forer
Secretary treasurer
Utopia C&D P.O. Box 366
Avonlea, Sask. SOH OCO
OPINION EDITORIAL: TRADING
THOUGHTS
By Ron WalterFor Moose Jaw Express
interest this year — almost as much as the entire budget just before the Saskatchewan Party was first elected.
That pace of spending seems to be unsustainable. No question.
I think, if there were no interest payments the budget would have a tiny surplus.
The $819.4 million planned deficit is likely to be different when the books close next March 31.
Royalties from average oil prices of $62.92 a barrel will be higher even if the Iran War ends soon, The longer the war lasts, the more royalties to roll in to cut the deficit.
On the other side of the ledger, drought in the southwest, lower commodity prices, and higher farm operating costs
for fuel and fertilizer will reduce tax revenues, forcing more payments under farm safety net programs.
The government had difficult choices to make when crafting this budget. No new taxes came but many fees and crown utility bills will increase.
To raise taxes would be highly unpopular as most taxpayers believe taxes are too high now.
To cut expenses would have meant layoffs and reduction of services across the board.
The main question: how to maintain the lowest unemployment rate in Canada and remain financially sound?
With health care, education and social services taking the majority of spending, cuts
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
would have seemed draconian to those using these services.
The government chose to hold the line on taxes and maintain program services.
Increased funding for municipalities — Moose Jaw gets $698,000 more — is appreciated and removes some pressure from property taxpayers.
Virtually all of the budget reaction has been that allocations fall short. No matter what government provides the budget, spending is never enough in many eyes.
Given the country’s delicate situation in international trade chaos service users may need to adjust to fewer dollars from the public purse.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Photo Story: Antique show featured variety
by Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
The annual antiques and collectibles show by the Sukanen Ship Museum saw a healthy crowd for both days.
Plenty of items on sale left with new owners. A few people visited with hands in their pockets, saying they were under or-
ders to not buy anything. They did.
One of them said he was unable to resist buying six old screwdrivers for $1. Another woman found old Orange Crush bottles, a beverage her husband liked.
Mon: $20 Off 60/80 Minute Pedicure
Tue: $20 Off 60/80 Minute Pedicure
Wed: $20 Off 60/80 Minute Pedicure
Thu: $100 Manicure/Pedicure Combo
Fri: $99 60
The Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation (MJWF) is preparing for its largest fun draiser of the year, with proceeds set to support a wide range of conservation and education programs across the re gion.
The organization’s annual fundraising banquet is scheduled for April 18 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre, with cocktails beginning at 5:30 p.m. and supper served at 7 p.m.
“It is the money raised from this event that supports those various programs, so a lot hinges on how much we are able to raise,” said Sandra Dewald, treasurer of the MJWF.
The evening will feature a mix of live and silent auctions, raffles, and interactive games, alongside a meal prepared by Charlotte’s Catering. Among the highlights are a fishing trip giveaway, a “mystery gift” draw, and a dart game where participants are guaranteed to win a prize.
“There’s a dart game where no matter where you throw, you win a prize,” Dewald said. “There are also raffles, and we have a … fishing trip being given away.”
The banquet has become a staple community event, drawing support from residents and businesses while helping to sustain the federation’s ongoing initiatives. Those initiatives include one of the organization’s most significant long-running projects: its mobile walleye hatchery situated at Buffalo Pound Provincial Park.
“This will be our 26th year for the trailer,” Dewald said. “In that time, we’ve hatched over 36 million eggs.”
The hatchery program works in partnership with the Saskatchewan govern-
ment, with eggs primarily sourced from Buffalo Pound Lake. Once hatched, the young fish are released into lakes across southern Saskatchewan to help maintain fish populations.
In addition to fisheries work, the federation also delivers a range of handson educational programs aimed at youth.
One such initiative is the Fish in Schools program, where students raise rainbow trout from eggs before releasing them into approved water bodies.
Another program, Pheasants in the Schools, involves incubating pheasant eggs in classrooms before the birds are raised and then released in August. Events such as the Youth and Family Ice Fishing Tournament, held this year on March 7, also help connect families with outdoor recreation and draw considerable support each year.
Beyond its core programs, the MJWF also maintains a full calendar of events that support conservation, education, and community engagement.
These include the Hamilton Flats Restoration Project, the annual Trophy Night in January, a March fish fry featuring Saskatchewan-sourced pike, the Walleye Challenge in June, and a golf tournament scheduled for July. The year con-
tinue its work.
“All funds raised from this event go toward our projects,” Dewald said.
To purchase tickets, contact Doreen Dodd at 306-692-4148, Sandra Dewald at 306-692-8848, or email MJWildlife.
mation about the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation, visit “Moose Jaw Wildlife
ca. The Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre is
Oh Clark’s
Volunteers sought as Moose Jaw Festival of Dance marks 65th year, expands support for dancers
As the Moose Jaw Festival of Dance prepares to mark its 65th year this spring, Dance Inspirations, the volunteer-run organization behind the event, is turning early attention to the people and programs that continue to sustain one of the community’s longest-running arts events.
A 65-year legacy of dance
The festival, scheduled for May 6 to 10 at A.E. Peacock Collegiate, represents more than six decades of dance in the community, with roots dating back to 1959.
“There’s a long legacy before us, and we’re very proud to honour the work of the committees that came before us,” said Krysta Field, president of the Moose Jaw Festival of Dance.
Each year, the event brings together dancers from across Saskatchewan and Alberta, with approximately 450 participants expected this year, ranging in age from five to 19 years. The festival features a wide range of disciplines, including ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre, among others, offering both a competitive platform and a learning experience for young performers.
Behind the scenes, the event operates entirely as a non-profit, volunteerrun organization — a structure that has remained central to its longevity.
“We are a completely non-profit organization and registered charity run (entirely) by a volunteer membership,” Field said. “A lot of volunteer hours go into this event, which takes 12 months to plan. We never stop.”
Supporting dance education
A central part of the festival’s im-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
pact is its scholarship and funding programs, which support dancers both during and beyond the competition.
“As a registered charity and nonprofit organization, all of the funds the festival brings in are given back to the dancers,” Field said. “We will be awarding more than $50,000 in cash scholarships at this year’s event.”
Those awards are primarily determined through adjudicated performances, with professional adjudicators assessing routines and awarding scholarships based on merit.
In addition, the organization has introduced a new Advancing Dance Education bursary, designed to help offset costs associated with further training opportunities.
“Our bursaries are designed to assist teachers and dancers with the cost of programs, workshops, seminars, and training opportunities that further their dance education outside of our competition,” Field said.
The bursary is open to both current and past participants and can be used to
support experiences such as workshops, summer intensives, or specialized training programs. Applications are currently open, with a deadline of June 1.
The festival also continues to offer the Doris Sitter Memorial Scholarship, which recognizes graduating students who demonstrate both academic achievement and commitment to dance.
Together, these programs reflect a broader goal of reducing financial barriers and encouraging continued participation in the arts.
For more information on scholarships, contact Scholarships@DanceInspirations.ca.
Volunteers needed
As preparations continue, organizers say community involvement remains essential — particularly as the festival works to fill approximately 100 volunteer shifts ahead of the event.
Volunteer roles include dancer check-in, merchandise support, backstage co-ordination, and assisting with awards distribution, with most shifts lasting between two and three hours.
Field said the roles are accessible to anyone interested in contributing.
“We do need volunteers to come in and help us through the event, outside of our board, of course,” she said. “They’re all fairly simple roles.”
She noted that the continued support of volunteers, sponsors, and donors remains critical to the festival’s success, particularly as it marks a milestone year.
To inquire about volunteering, contact director of volunteers Kristy Tenetuik at 306-630-4179. For more information, visit DanceInspirations.ca.
A dancer performs during a previous Moose Jaw Festival of Dance. The 65th annual event is scheduled for May 6 to 10, with organizers now calling for volunteers and promoting scholarship opportunities.
Photo by: Dance Inspirations - Moose Jaw Festival of Dance/Facebook
Dancers take the stage at 40th annual Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival
The stage came alive at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on March 28 as dancers from across Saskatchewan gathered for the 40th annual Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival.
Now marking four decades in the community, the three-day event continues to serve as an early-season showcase for dancers of all ages and experience levels, offering a supportive environment focused on growth, performance and camaraderie.
Throughout the day, performers took part in multiple sessions featuring a range of disciplines, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theatre, and acro. From first-time competitors stepping onto the stage to more experienced dancers refining their technique, the event highlighted the depth and diversity of talent within the region’s dance community.
Organized by co-founders Barb Jackman and Denise Maisonneuve, the Carnival has grown significantly since its beginnings in 1985, when it featured roughly 50 entries in a single day. Today, it spans multiple days and continues to draw participation from studios across Saskatchewan.
Despite changes in the dance competition landscape over the years, the event has maintained its emphasis on encouragement and inclusivity. Dancers compete within age and experience categories, allowing participants to perform alongside peers at a similar stage in their training.
Adjudicators provided real-time feedback through video evaluations, offering dancers immediate insight into their performances while also recognizing standout efforts through awards presented at the end of each session.
For more information, visit “MJ Invitational Dance Carnival” on Facebook, email InvitationalDanceCarnival1985@ gmail.com, or call 306-631-0584.
THURSDAY, APRIL 16
STARTING AT 7:30PM
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION
THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. APRIL 20, 2026.
There has been “quite a significant increase” in the number of Catholic students being transported in the area, data shows, with a nearly 70-per-cent jump in Moose Jaw alone.
Administration with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division presented a transportation report at the recent board meeting, covering busing data from September 2022 to February 2026.
“(We) see quite a significant increase in the number of students that are being transported,” said Curt Van Parys, the division’s chief financial officer.
Van Parys pointed out that Prairie South School Division is transporting more Holy Trinity students in Moose Jaw this year than last year, mainly due to the closure of Sacred Heart and St. Mary elementary schools and the open-
Nearly 70% more Catholic students being bused in Moose Jaw this year
Jason G. Antonio - For the Moose Jaw Express
ing of Our Lady of Hope Elementary School.
Data showed that as of Feb. 28, Prairie South was busing 286 Catholic students in Moose Jaw, compared to 97 youths during the same time in 2025. This was an increase of 189 students or a jump of 66 per cent, which, Van Parys said, was “quite a change.”
Also, as of Feb. 28, 1,405 total Catholic students were being transported throughout Holy Trinity, compared to 1,187 youths during the same period last year, the report added. This represented an increase of 218 students or a jump of 18.4 per cent.
Meanwhile, Van Parys said the average age of the division’s total bus fleet in Moose Jaw was 9.1 years, with the regular bus fleet roughly eight years old and the spare fleet roughly 9.5 years
old.
Continuing, the CFO said there was “a slight increase” in the number of students the division was transporting in Moose Jaw North — 528 students compared to 522 last year — although, surprisingly, buses were travelling fewer kilometres per day.
The data showed that, as of Feb. 28, those buses were travelling 257.9 kilometres per day, compared to 267.6 kilometres during the same time last year. This was a three-per-cent decrease.
“A bit of a kudos to our transportation manager, who’s just a whiz with our bus routing software program and strives to be as efficient as possible,” said Van Parys.
Other data showed that buses were 94.8 per cent full on the Moose Jaw North routes, compared to 87.6 per cent
during the same time last year. Also, the average ride time in Moose Jaw was 29 minutes, the same as in 2025, while the longest one-way ride time in the city was 40 minutes, compared to 38 minutes last year.
Meanwhile, Holy Trinity was “reasonably well-positioned” compared to other school divisions in possessing a sufficient number of bus drivers, said Van Parys. However, that advantage would disappear soon as drivers begin to retire, while the organization currently has few spares to cover for absent drivers. This forces managers to take over “in those rare situations.”
Van Parys’ report noted that the division must rebuild its substitute driver list, while it recently interviewed several people who were willing to train to acquire their S-licence endorsement.
New data show that this year’s kindergarten students in Holy Trinity Catholic School Division performed slightly better on an evaluation than students who took the test last year.
Division administration presented an early learning accountability report during the March board meeting, which provided information about prekindergarten and kindergarten programs and data from evaluations.
Kindergarten educators administer the early years evaluation teacher assessment (EYE-TA) in the fall, as the Ministry of Education mandates, and then reassess select students in the spring.
The evaluation looks at self-aware-
ness and environmental awareness, social skills and approaches to learning, cognitive skills, language and communication, fine motor physical development, and gross motor physical development.
Data showed that, in the fall of 2024, 148 kindergarten students took the EYE-TA, with 91 pupils falling into the tier 1 category — this represents 62 per cent of all students assessed.
In comparison, provincially, 41 per cent of all kindergarten students tested fell into the tier 1 category.
Meanwhile, in the fall of 2025, which is part of this school year, Holy Trinity tested 170 kindergarten students, with 113 pupils falling into the tier 1 cat-
egory — this represents 66.5 per cent of all students assessed. Therefore, the division’s evaluation scores increased by 4.5 per cent year over year.
In comparison, provincially, 56.9 per cent of all kindergarten students tested fell into the tier 1 category.
Tier 1 means students need very little additional support, whereas kids in tier 3 require significantly more help.
Laura Adrian, the division’s early years learning facilitator, told trustees that 10-year data trends show that over 80 per cent of kindergarten students typically fall into tier 1 by the spring. Moreover, even when fewer kids are in that category, the division still has a higher average than the province.
“We did have a really high amount of children in tier 1 this year, which was interesting … . Only once in the last decade have we had (a percentage around 66.5 per cent) on a pre-assessment,” she said.
Continuing, Adrian said this percentage “is exceptional,” especially since these kindergartners are “true COVID babies” — born during the pandemic — and she was curious to know how they would test; the results posi-
tively surprised her. She also hoped to see more students improve on the spring assessments.
Adrian noted that the number of students in tier 2 has grown recently, but those children have also improved in their development — many have moved into tier 1 — during the second assessment. Also, research shows 78.3 per cent of kids in tiers 2 and 3 will likely grow in their development.
“That’s a testament to what our educators are doing, and that’s what we really like to focus on … . We are welcoming and excited to have whoever walks in our door,” she said. “And our goal is to have high-quality, developmentally responsive practices, which will result in growth.”
Meanwhile, Adrian said the division is facing challenges, as many children have fewer social and emotional literacy skills and oral language skills, which require more intensive support. Also, many kids are not toilet-trained, possibly due to the pandemic fallout or cultural differences, while the division is facing a high turnover of educational assistants.
48-5TH AVE NE
Peacock students represent Moose Jaw at Skills Canada provincial competition in Regina
A group of students from A.E. Peacock Collegiate represented Moose Jaw late last week at the 2026 Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition in Regina.
The annual event, which brought together hundreds of high school, postsecondary, and apprentice competitors from across the province, was held March 27 at Campus Regina Public and Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Regina campus.
Among those who competed were six Peacock students who had been training in skilled trades and technical disciplines throughout the school year. Local competitors included Ciara Schollar and Ethan Durrant in autobody repair, Xavier Walz, Tanner Kivol, and Memphis Wilderman in car paint, and Owen McLeod in job task demonstration.
The competition featured more than 40 categories, ranging from trades such as welding and carpentry to technologyfocused fields like graphic design and photography. Competitors were evalu-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
ated on practical, hands-on tasks that reflected real-world industry standards.
According to the Government of Saskatchewan, nearly 300 participants took part in this year’s provincial competition, which also included a public career fair showcasing opportunities in skilled trades and technology sectors.
“Congratulations to everyone competing at this year’s Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said in a provincial news release. “There is a bright future for the skilled trades and technology sectors in our province. We are thrilled so many young people are honing their skills in these high-demand career pathways.”
Medal winners at the provincial level may advance to represent Team Saskatchewan at the Skills Canada National Competition, scheduled for May 28 and 29 in Toronto.
Organizers said the event played an important role in promoting careers in the skilled trades, particularly as de-
mand for workers continues to grow.
“Skilled trade employers tell us they’re recruiting,” Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission CEO Jeff Ritter said. “They are looking for people who like to solve problems and work with their hands. The competitors today have a head start already — they are demonstrating their commitment to being the best they can be in their chosen trades.”
Provincial data showed there were
nearly 7,800 registered apprentices in Saskatchewan as of the end of 2025, the highest number in close to a decade.
The Skills Canada competition is part of a broader national and international program, with top competitors advancing through regional and national levels to the WorldSkills competition, set for September in Shanghai.
Look for further details on these local student competitors in an upcoming edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
Students from A.E. Peacock Collegiate competing at the 2026 Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition in Regina include Ciara Schollar (autobody repair), Xavier Walz, Tanner Kivol, and Memphis Wilderman (car paint), Ethan Durrant (autobody repair), and Owen McLeod (job task demonstration). Photo by: A. E. Peacock Collegiate/Facebook
CITY HALL
COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. MAR 24, 2026
City council has approved the next step in financing a major wastewater infrastructure project, authorizing administration to seek proposals for up to $30
million in borrowing to support construction of the Crescent View Headworks Facility.
The decision came during council’s March 24 regular
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL VILLAGE OF BELLE PLAINE
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Village of Belle Plaine for the year of 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the assessor Tuesdays 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, March 23rd, 2026 –April 22nd, 2026
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 notice of appeal with: Western Municipal Consulting Box 149, Meota, SK S0M1X0
Dated this 23rd day of March 2026.
Leane Johnston, Assessor
For inquiries about your assessment contact SAMA Regina Region at 1-800- 498-0578 or regina.region@sama.sk.ca
R.M. OF TERRELL NO. 101 BOX 60 SPRING VALLEY, SK S0H 3X0
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Terrell No. 101 for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the assessor, during open o ce hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Thursday, March 24 to April 30, 2026.
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 with: The Secretary, Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins of Western Municipal Consulting Ltd. Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 30th day of April, 2026, accompanied by a $30 fee for each property or parcel of land being appealed, which will be returned if the appeal is successful.
Dated this 24th day of March, 2026.
Kimberly Sippola
Assessor
City to seek $30M in financing for key wastewater infrastructure upgrade
Aaron
meeting, where members voted unanimously to allow the Department of Financial Services to issue a request for proposals (RFP) for a 15-year borrowing term.
The borrowing forms part of a broader funding plan for the project, which was identified as a priority in both the 2025 and 2026 municipal budgets. The facility is intended to address capacity and aging infrastructure issues within the city’s wastewater system.
Director of Financial Services Jaime Ansell told council the RFP process is intended to ensure transparency and secure competitive financing options.
“Our financing plan includes $9.75 million in committed Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF) … funding, and a potential drawdown of approximately $26.66 million from investments,” Ansell said. “With these contributions, borrowing is required to complete the project without overextend-
Walker - Moose Jaw Express
ing reserves or limiting future investment earnings.”
Although municipal policy does not require a competitive process for borrowing, administration recommended proceeding with an RFP to access favourable interest rates and flexible financing structures.
If council proceeds, administration will return with a recommended lender and the required borrowing bylaw. The RFP was scheduled to be posted March 25, with a closing date of April 8.
Council heard that the city’s debt position remains within its approved limits. The Saskatchewan Municipal Board recently increased Moose Jaw’s borrowing capacity from $95 million to $135 million, allowing room for major capital investments such as Crescent View.
Ansell said the city’s total debt stood at approximately $69.7 million at the end of 2025. With the additional borrowing, that figure would rise
VILLAGE OF CARONPORT
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that a vote will be held for the election of:
COUNCILLOR (1 POSITION): Village of Caronport
The Advance Poll will take place on:
Friday April 10, 2026 from 10:00am – 2:00pm at 201 Valleyview Drive, Caronport SK (the Municipal O ce)
Election Day will take place on: Wednesday April 22, 2026 from 9:00am – 8:00pm at 201 Valleyview Drive, Caronport, SK (the Municipal O ce)
I will declare the results of the election at 201 Valleyview Drive being the Village O ce on the 23rd day of April, 2026, at the hour of 10:00am.
Dated at Caronport, this 23rd day of March, 2026.
Ashley Chase, Returning O cer
to about $99.7 million before planned repayments are expected to reduce it again by the end of 2026.
Members of council acknowledged the financial impact but said the project was necessary.
“This is probably the single most important piece of infrastructure within the city of Moose Jaw as it stands,” Coun. Jamey Logan said during debate, noting the system’s role in supporting daily services for residents.
The project is moving ahead after the city was unsuccessful in securing Community Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) funding, with administration also indicating another infrastructure application tied to Crescent View had been denied.
Despite that, council pointed to a combination of reserves and borrowing as a viable path forward. Approximately $26.66 million will be drawn from municipal funds, while the remaining amount will be financed through debt.
Mayor James Murdock also raised questions about how the borrowing would affect future costs. Administration indicated that debt servicing would be incorporated into utility rate planning in future budgets.
The Crescent View Headworks Facility is expected to replace aging and capacity-limited components of the current system. Administration noted that while parts of the existing infrastructure remain operational, the system is increasingly strained during moderate rainfall events and is approaching its functional limits. Construction is anticipated to begin as early as summer 2026, with completion projected for May 2029.
School Division Votes On Sale Of Shuttered Schools
By Robert Thomas
After a longer than normal in-camera session the Prairie South School Division (PSSD) board of trustees made decisions regarding two surplus properties the division owns. The decisions were made March 20 at a special meeting of the trustees.
One property - the former Westmount School - sale was approved for $605,000.
The other property - the former Empire School - had an offer of $550,000. The board voted to receive and file the report.
There was no public discussion by the board on the proposed sales.
The two former schools became surplus after the opening of the new South Hill Joint Use School in September 2025.
The students who had been attending the Empire and Westmount schools now attend the South Hill Joint Use School - PSSD’s school is called Coteau Hills Elementary School.
The two offers came from Royal LePage Realty on behalf of an unnamed buyer. There was no information what the prospective buyer(s) planned to do with the properties.
Westmount School
Trustees voted in favour to accept
The move to sell the property has been approved by the sale and the use of a realtor on July 24, 2025.
The sale was recommended by Administration.
Empire School
a $605,000 offer so long certain conditions are met.
Those conditions are conditional on satisfactory building, mechanical and electrical, roof and sewer inspections, environmental site analysis, a satisfactory building condition report and approval of satisfactory rezoning from the City of Moose Jaw.
The possession date is June 12, 2026.
A report outlining a proposed sale of the former Empire School was received and filed on a motion put forward by Trustee Patrick Boyle.
Administration had recommended to the board that they accept the offer.
The sale was contingent on the exact same sale conditions as Westmount School.
“The offer is conditional on satisfactory building and sewer inspections, gas line report, building appraisal, a Phase 1 environmental site analysis and
Report to the board of trustees outlining the offer and conditions for the sale of Empire School
approval of satisfactory rezoning from the City of Moose Jaw,” the report read. The reports for both properties do not indicate what zoning the proposed buyer is looking for from the City of Moose Jaw.
Report to the board of trustees outlining the offer and conditions for the sale of Westmount School
The former Empire School now sits vacant - MJ Independent photo
From ideas to reality: Sask Polytech entrepreneurs share ‘Startup Challenge’ journeys
For a group of emerging entrepreneurs, Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s new Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre is already making a realworld impact.
Two participants in the Sask Polytech Startup Challenge shared their experiences during the centre’s March 26 launch at the Moose Jaw campus, offering a glimpse into how the program is helping turn ideas into viable businesses.
The 10-week mentorship and pitch competition, launched as the new centre’s first major initiative, brings together students and community entrepreneurs from across the province, providing guidance, training, and networking opportunities.
Jenna Aulie, a graphic communications student at Sask Polytech’s Regina campus and founder of Jenna Aulie Cre-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
ations, said the program helped her take concrete steps toward building her business.
“The Startup Challenge has introduced me to my mentors, Angela and Andrew Hunter. They’re two amazing people
PUBLIC NOTICE
R.M. OF RODGERS NO. 133
NOTICE OF DISCRETIONARY USE APPLICATION
Pursuant to Section 55 of the Planning and Development Act 2007, the Council of the R.M. of Rodgers No. 133 gives notice that discretionary use applications have been received and the details are as follows:
Discretionary Use Permit DU 1-2026:
Description: Gravel Pit Excavation
Location: SW 32-13-3-W3– Block A, Plan #101095871, Ext 25
The applicant would like to expand existing Gravel Pit.
Public Hearing: Council will discuss the above noted Discretionary Use Permit at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in Board Room #2, 1410 Caribou St W, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. For further information please call Colleen Ferguson, Administrator at 306-693-1329.
Dated at the City of Moose Jaw in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 1st day of April, 2026.
Colleen Ferguson
Administrator
who have given me great tips and advice and connected me to other entrepreneurs,” she said.
Aulie, who grew up near Redvers, Sask., said her entrepreneurial goals stem from a desire to work across multiple creative disciplines, including photography, graphic design, and videography.
“When I was in high school, I knew what I wanted to do after I graduated. I had so many different hobbies and interests that I couldn’t really narrow down … most of my hobbies were creative and artistic, so I decided to take visual arts classes at the University of Regina,” she shared. “But after two years of that, I decided that that wasn’t the kind of schedule or learning style that worked for me. That’s how I ended up at Sask Polytech. I really thrive in work environments that allow me to be creative and work through problems hands-on, and I always look forward to seeing what I’ve made in its final form.”
Her business concept aims to offer multiple services in one place, allowing clients to access photography, design, and print-
ing in one place.
“I enjoy getting to know the people I’ll be working with before I go do the work for them,” she said.
For Crystal Fatteicher, a Sask Polytech alumna and founder of Ponderosa Connection, the program has provided practical tools and a sense of community.
“What I found inside this program has exceeded all of my expectations,” she said.
Fatteicher said the workshops and mentorship opportunities have helped refine her business approach, particularly in understanding market needs, with sessions covering topics such as value proposition, market validation, and the business development cycle.
“The most transformative part was the client discovery conversation … learning to listen to what the market actually needs, not on my assumptions,” she said.
She added that the program has also created a strong support network among participants.
“These all created some-
thing I did not anticipate, which is an entrepreneurial family,” she said.
The Startup Challenge will conclude with a final pitch event on April 16 at the Town ’N’ Country Mall, where more than 20 participants from across the province will compete for up to $25,000 in prizes.
For Aulie and Fatteicher, the experience has helped build confidence and clarity moving forward.
“Entrepreneurship might not be an easy path,” Fatteicher said, “but it does become possible when you surround yourself by people who believe in what you’re building, even before you fully believe it yourself.”
To learn more about Jenna Aulie Creations, visit JennaAulieCreations.ca, and for more information on Ponderosa Connection, visit PonderosaConnection.com.
For more information on the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre at Sask Polytech’s Moose Jaw campus, visit SaskPolytech.ca or email BIEC@SaskPolytech. ca.
Jenna Aulie, a Sask Polytech student and founder of Jenna Aulie Creations, speaks about her experience in the Startup Challenge during the March 26 launch of the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Crystal Fatteicher, founder of Ponderosa Connection and a Sask Polytech alumna, shares her experience in the Startup Challenge during the March 26 launch of the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Sask Polytech launches new entrepreneurship centre to drive innovation across province
Saskatchewan Polytechnic officially launched its new Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre on March 26, positioning the Moose Jaw campus as a provincial hub for applied learning, mentorship, and business development.
The centre, located on campus, is designed to support students, entrepreneurs, and industry partners through hands-on programming, applied research, and collaborative projects aimed at turning ideas into viable businesses. Through workshops, one-on-one support, and applied research collaborations, the centre aims to help participants develop and scale new ventures.
Speaking during the launch event, Sask Polytech president and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia said the initiative is already generating momentum across the province.
“It’s absolutely my pleasure … to help officially launch the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre, an initiative that’s already sparking ideas … and generating excitement across the campus and across our province,” Rosia said.
The centre builds on Sask Polytech’s applied research strengths, bringing education, industry, and innovation together. Rosia said it will expand the institution’s nationally recognized work and support industry-driven innovation.
“At its core, the centre’s purpose is to grow innovation, advance applied research, and nurture entrepreneurial talent,” he said.
Kristen Craig, dean of the Faculty
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
of Business and Management, said the centre will address a key gap for aspiring entrepreneurs across Saskatchewan.
“What I’ve seen as I’ve been going out to the communities … is that there’s a lot of people within our province that have really, really great ideas, but they don’t have access … to mentorship,” Craig said. “The Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre exists to help close that gap.”
A tour of the space highlighted a professional, well-equipped environment, with modern technology in place to support virtual meetings and remote participation. The centre is open to students, alumni, and community entrepreneurs, reinforcing its provincewide focus.
Spencer Nikkel, director of the centre within Sask Polytech’s Faculty of Business and Management, said programming is already underway, including its first major initiative — the Sask Polytech Startup Challenge.
“This is a 10-week mentorship and pitch competition with over 20 participants from across the province,” Nikkel said. “They get the chance to learn alongside each other and build community.”
The challenge will culminate in a final pitch event on April 16 at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall, where participants will compete for up to $25,000 in prizes.
The launch drew several representatives, including Moose Jaw Mayor James Murdock, Moose Jaw-Wakamow MLA Megan Patterson, and Moose Jaw Police Service Chief Rick Davis. Addressing attendees, Minister of Advanced Education Ken Cheveldayoff
highlighted the broader economic impact of the initiative, noting it comes at a time when the province continues to look at ways to support entrepreneurship and retain talent.
“Today marks an important milestone … which will support Saskatchewan entrepreneurs and strengthen our province’s economy,” Cheveldayoff said.
He added the centre builds on Sask Polytech’s role in delivering careerready education and supporting workforce development, while noting the sector has faced challenges, including layoffs he said his government is working to address.
“Entrepreneurship and innovation are critical to Saskatchewan’s future,” he said.
Local business leaders welcomed the initiative as a boost to the city’s economic ecosystem, including Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce president Doug Young, who said the centre will help fill longstanding gaps for entrepreneurs seeking guidance and
connections. While positioned as a provincial resource, the Moose Jaw location reinforces the campus’s role in regional economic development.
“When innovators launch here in Moose Jaw, the benefits extend far beyond the individual,” Young said. “New businesses create jobs … and bring fresh energy into our economy.”
To learn more, visit SaskPolytech. ca or email BIEC@SaskPolytech.ca.
THIS WEEKS FLYERS
*Full Circulation means every home & paper should have this yer. If you are missing call us @306-694-1322. *Selected Areas means only selected areas were chosen by the business or agency (please call the business).
Sask. Minister of Advanced Education Ken Cheveldayoff speaks during the March 26 launch, highlighting its role in supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening the provincial economy. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech, addresses attendees during the March 26 launch of the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre at the Moose Jaw campus. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Spencer Nikkel, director of the Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre at Sask Polytech, outlines new programming during the centre’s official launch in Moose Jaw on March 26. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Warriors close season, honour top performers at YARA Awards Night
The Moose Jaw Warriors wrapped up their 2025–26 campaign on March 21, marking the occasion with their annual YARA Awards Night and reflecting on a season defined by narrow margins.
Despite remaining in the playoff hunt until the final stretch, Moose Jaw missed the postseason for a second straight year. According to a report on the team’s website by Elizabeth Black, the Warriors played in 22 one-goal games over the course of the 68-game schedule.
“It hurts, there’s no question,” head coach Mark O’Leary said in a postgame interview published by the team. “It’s going to be a long summer going through the moments throughout 68 games.”
The same report noted the team had eight wins in those one-goal contests, alongside seven overtime or shootout losses and seven regulation defeats, results that ultimately shaped their postseason outcome.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“It’s a long season, but those competitive moments, they matter, and they add up over time,” O’Leary said in the team’s published interview. “You fight all season long to have an opportunity to play in the playoffs, and for it to be in our hands (on Saturday) and come up short, it’s (tough).”
Injuries throughout the year opened the door for younger players and affili-
ates to take on expanded roles, contributing to what the organization described as steady improvement over time.
“The goal going into any season is to be better today than you were yesterday, and I think we did that over the course of the year,” O’Leary said.
“We’re a better team now than we were earlier in the year.”
Against that backdrop, the Warriors
recognized individual achievements from across the roster.
Goaltender Chase Wutzke headlined the awards, earning Player of the Year honours and Three Stars recognition. Colt Carter was named Rookie of the Year and Scholastic Achievement winner, while Landen McFadden claimed Top Scorer and Aiden Ziprick was named Top Defenceman.
Connor Schmidt received the Unsung Hero award, Casey Brown was named Most Sportsmanlike, and Cohen Williams earned Most Improved Player.
Brady Ness was recognized as the Hustle and Hardest Working Warrior and shared Humanitarian of the Year honours with Ethan Semeniuk. Pavel McKenzie rounded out the list as the Fans’ Choice award winner.
The organization now turns its attention to the WHL Prospects Draft, scheduled for May 6 and 7.
For more information, visit CHL. ca/whl-warriors.
Photos by: Moose Jaw Warriors Hockey Club/Facebook
Three pillars of sport recognized at Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet
A familiar face in Moose Jaw’s amateur sports community was recognized for more than two decades of dedication on March 28, as Darryl Pisio was presented with the Sports Builder Award during the annual Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet.
The award, sponsored by SaskPromo.com and presented on behalf of the Moose Jaw Express, celebrates individuals who have made lasting contributions to sport at the grassroots level.
Presenter Pete Iatridis highlighted a long list of accomplishments, spanning baseball, hockey, and community leadership.
Pisio’s involvement in baseball alone stretches more than 20 years, including roles with the Moose Jaw Miller Express organization, where he has served in executive capacities and helped lead youth development initiatives, including the team’s summer camps. He has also coached at multiple levels, including Little League and Moose Jaw Minor Baseball, and was named Coach of the Year in 2019.
His contributions extend beyond baseball, with coaching experience in minor hockey and service on the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce board.
“I personally have had the pleasure of working with this person for eight years when I sat on the board for the Miller Express, and I was always inspired by this person’s contributions, hard work, and dedication to amateur sports in the community,” Iatridis said during the presentation.
Taking the stage, Pisio reflected on what has motivated his decades-long involvement in sport, pointing to friendships, family, and community as the driving forces behind his commitment.
“There are probably three things that come to mind when it comes to being involved in sport … I think the first thing is you want to hang out with your friends and have some fun with it … I think the second reason we get involved
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Golden West Radio after a dominant 2025 season.
The Cyclones went undefeated through the regular season and playoffs, capturing the provincial championship on home turf with a 51–8 victory.
“They went undefeated in the regular season and carried that momentum straight into the playoffs … they didn’t just win, they dominated,” the presenter noted.
In accepting the award, team representatives credited the broader community and emphasized the role sport plays in developing leadership beyond the field.
“It’s not just about winning games … what we want to do is make our athletes … leaders in the community,” a team spokesperson said.
Kelly Busch claims Sports
Achievement Award
The evening also included the presentation of the Sports Achievement Award, delivered by Cory Olafson of the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club, recognizing individual excellence and long-standing commitment to athletic development.
This year’s honour went to Kelly Busch, whose involvement in wrestling dates back to the late 1970s and spans both competitive achievement and mentorship within the sport.
In his remarks, Olafson reflected on the broader impact of Busch’s career, highlighting the values fostered through years of dedication to wrestling. He pointed to lessons such as “responsibility, accountability, honesty, resilience” as key takeaways from the sport, as well as the lasting importance of mentorship in shaping future athletes.
in sport is because of our kids, and we just want to teach them something and help them develop,” Pisio said.
Pisio added that, above all, sport is about building connections within the community.
“We do it because it’s about the people and the community that we’re involved in … it’s amazing, the people that come to the ball games … at the end of the season, they’ve met new friends, and they’ve bonded with other people and so forth,” he said.
He also took time to thank those closest to him, including his family and the organizations that have supported his work over the years.
“I just want to say thank you to Moose Jaw Express and SaskPromo … I want to thank the Kinsmen for this platform … and, probably last but most important, to my amazing wife, partner, teammate … thank you for everything that you’ve done,” Pisio said.
Central Cyclones claim Team of the Year
Following Pisio’s nomination, the Central Cyclones senior boys football team was named Team of the Year by
Darryl Pisio accepts the Sports Builder Award during the Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Banquet on March 28 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre. Also honoured during the evening were the Central Cyclones senior boys football team (Team of the Year) and Kelly Busch (Sports Achievement Award). Photo by: Aaron Walker
Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors dominate Game 4 against Regina Pat Canadians to send SMAAAHL final to deciding game
Warriors take 5-1 victory at Temple Gardens Centre to force fifth game on Saturday afternoon in Regina Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
After seeing their first three games of their Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League championship final series with the Regina Pat Canadians go to overtime, the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors left nothing to doubt on Friday night.
And now the two teams will play one more game on Saturday afternoon in Regina to decide it all.
The Warriors scored three in the first period and never looked back in Game 4 at Temple Gardens Centre in Moose Jaw, going on to a 5-1 victory to tie the series at two games apiece.
Regina won the first two games 3-2
on Saturday and 4-3 on Monday before the Warriors rallied for a 3-2 win on Wednesday.
It was a far different situation in Game 4, as the Warriors came out firing right out of the gate. Tyler Hudec opened scoring with his first of the playoffs at the 3:58 mark, Ryder Gilroy made it 2-0 three minutes later and Ryan Gibbs made it a three-goal lead by scoring his seventh of the postseason with 39 seconds left in the opening frame.
Nathan Gardiner got one back for Regina with a power play goal at 8:07 of the second period, but that would be
as close as the Pat Cs would get on the night.
Carson Deichert restored Moose Jaw’s three-goal lead with 6:50 to play in the period and Hudson Sayers added an insurance marker with 1:20 remaining to cap scoring.
Steven Wawryk stopped 26 shots to earn the victory in goal for the Warriors, Ben Meyers had 21 stops for Regina.
As one might expect from a game with so much at stake, it was a remarkably clean contest, with Moose Jaw taking two minor penalties in the second period and Regina one in the third.
Regina Pat Canadians defeat Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors in Game 5 to win Sask Male AAA Hockey League championship
Regina takes early lead, go on to 5-1 victory to claim second-straight SMAAAHL title Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Regina Pat Canadians are the Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League champions for the second year in a row.
The Pat Canadians took an early lead over the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors in Game 5 of the championship final on Saturday afternoon and never looked back, going on to a 5-1 victory in front of a standing-room only crowd at Co-operators Arena in Regina.
Regina had won the first two games of the series in overtime before Moose Jaw rallied to win Games 3 and 4 to force the deciding contest.
It didn’t take long for Regina to get on the board in Game 5, and it was exactly who you’d expect to get the job done. Maddox Schultz hit the back of the net only 26 seconds after the puck dropped, and the Pat Cs were in business.
Kai Lanigan made it a 2-0 Regina lead with 8:54 gone in the second period, but the Warriors would get one back before the frame was out, with Riley
The Regina Pat Canadians are the 2025-26 Saskatchewan Male AAA Hockey League champions.
Brown finding the back of the net with 2:50 to play.
That would be the last good news for Moose Jaw, though, as the Pat C’s Ryker Doka scored the lone goal of the
second period on the power play with 7:21 to play and Regina then finished things off in the third.
Malakai Martin scored his 10th of the postseason with 4:11 gone to make it
all but academic, and after the Warriors pulled goaltender Steven Wawryk for the extra attacker with 5:15 remaining, Mahlon Wiley scored into the empty net for the final goal of the SMAAAHL season.
Ethan Young had three assists for Regina, Liam Pue picked up a pair of helpers.
Adam Muntain turned aside 28 shots to pick up the win in Regina’s net, Wawryk had 24 stops for the Warriors. Moose Jaw had plenty of opportunity to get back into the game with their power play but went scoreless on six chances on the man advantage. Regina was 1-for-3.
The Pat Canadians will have a few days to celebrate before they join Moose Jaw in the Telus Cup Western Regional national championship qualifier tournament beginning April 2. You can follow all the action on The SportsCage throughout the event.
WINMAR Warriors logo
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 wraps curling season with strong turnout
The 2025–26 curling season at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 has come to a close, with a full slate of league awards recognizing a six-month campaign marked by steady participation and continued growth.
Running from Oct. 5, 2025, to March 22, the Sunday league schedule featured 17 games and a total of 12 teams, reflecting what organizers described as another successful year on the ice at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre.
Leading the way were this year’s league champions, sponsored by York Engine Services, with Chris Schon, Sue Knox, Chad Hall, and Mike Langevin earning top honours in a competition that dates back to 1965.
In the aggregate category, awarded to the team with the most wins in the first half of the round-robin, Barry Silk, Chris Hibbin, Joan Buckmaster, and Aspen Hall were recognized as winners of the Nola Belisle Memorial, established in 1983.
The B Side championship, part of the Dede and Stan Wheatley Memorial that was established in 2000, went to Brent Wilderman, Alexander Yaskowich, Jean Doyon, and Mary Ann Langevin, while the A Side runner-up honours were claimed by Mike Gardner, Jay Bekar, Corrine Cobbe, and Shane Hogeboom under the Ron and Doris Wilkinson Plaque, established in 2011.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Members of the York Engine Servicessponsored rink are shown following their League Championship win during the 2025-26 Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 curling season. Team members include Chris Schon, Sue Knox, Chad Hall, and Mike Langevin. Photo by: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw
Also recognized were the B Side runners-up, Jason Langton, George Chow, Heather Pearson, and Bruce Youngson, rounding out the season’s award recipients.
The league maintained its 12-team format for a second straight year, supported by a steady group of spare players who contributed throughout the season.
“We once again had a great year of curling at the Moose Jaw Curling Centre,” the organizing committee shared in a season-end update. “It was our second year with 12 teams and several reliable spares. Thank you to all participants.”
The update also highlighted the league’s standing within the broader curling community.
“We are indeed the most success-
Members of the B Side championship rink are shown following their win in the Dede and Stan Wheatley Memorial. Team members include Brent Wilderman, Alexander Yaskowich, Jean Doyon, and Mary Ann Langevin. Photo by: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw
ful Legion league in the entire province of Saskatchewan and most likely all of Canada. We are proud to have a thriving league and hopefully this trend will continue for years to come.”
Beyond competition results, the committee expressed appreciation for those who supported the league behind the scenes, including championship sponsor Ritchie York, Legion office manager Diane Bourgeois, bar staff, and Branch 59 President Chris Simpson and the executive.
Looking ahead, the league continues to position itself as an accessible and social entry point for curlers of all experience levels, from high school students to senior stick curlers.
“We are always looking for new participants to join us, including high (school students), new curlers, senior stick curlers, or casual curlers looking for a relaxed, fun league,” the committee stated, noting that Legion membership is encouraged but not required.
The league has the capacity to grow to 16 teams heading into the
of the A Side runner-up rink are shown after earning honours for the Ron and Doris Wilkinson Plaque. Team members include Mike Gardner, Jay Bekar, Corrine Cobbe, and Shane Hogeboom.
by: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw
2026–27 season, with team selection generally completed ahead of a midSeptember registration deadline.
Each year, Branch 59 also sends multiple teams to the Saskatchewan Command’s provincial Legion curling championship bonspiel, held in January at rotating locations across the province.
For more information, stop by the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 at 693 Fairford Street West or call 306692-5453.
Members
Photo
Members of the B Side runner-up rink are shown after earning honours for the Ron and Doris Wilkinson Plaque. Team members include Jason Langton, George Chow, Heather Pearson, and Bruce Youngson. Photo by: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw
Members of the Aggregate-winning rink are shown after capturing the Nola Belisle Memorial. Team members include Barry Silk, Chris Hibbin, Joan Buckmaster, and Aspen Hall. Photo by: Royal Canadian Legion Branch 59 Moose Jaw
Cyclones Senior Boys Win Record Sixth Straight 4A Provincial Title
by Robert Thomas
A quick start and strong defence has led the Central Cyclones senior boys basketball team to a record sixth straight 4A provincial championship.
The Cyclones dominated the hardwood from start to finish going on to defeat Regina’s Harvest City Reapers 93 - 56.
It was the game, the finish the Cyclones had practiced and prepared for.
“I can’t be happier you know we worked all week in practice on a plan we felt we would be playing Harvest City in the final and the boys just came out and executed it perfectly. I’m so happy for that,” Central Cyclones head coach Kris Temple said.
The Cyclones had been preparing and practicing hard in the week before the HOOPLA tournament.
“When we play well defensively when we are switching streams when we are rotating defensively, we are a very hard team to beat. And that’s a lot of what we worked on in practice this week,” Temple said.
Emotions ran hard as the Central Cyclones senior girls basketball team lost the provincial bronze medal championship game 48 - 37 to the Melville Cobras on Saturday.
It was a game that saw both teams come out equal in the first quarter at which time the Cyclones took the lead in the second quarter.
A fast play to a Melville player deep behind Central’s defence ended up in a basket which seemingly swung the momentum to the Cobras’ favour.
The Cyclones worked hard but the Cobras pulled away.
“It was a tough one,” Central Cyclones head coach Tanya MacLean said.
Despite the loss the Cyclones had proven the many neigh sayers wrong she said.
“I don’t think anyone expected us
to be at HOOPLA at all. We got fourth. We were super competitive. I’m super proud of them. It’s an accomplishment to be here.”
Modern kitchen managers know they do not have to conform to long-held traditions in order to serve a delicious meal, whether at Easter, Christmas or while entertaining friends.
Today’s hostesses are willing to step over the line to put together a meal they enjoy preparing and know their guests will also be happy to try every dish.
This week’s recipes offer some ideas for foods that could be served with any chosen main course — and have guests eagerly enjoying seconds or asking for the recipes.
Happy Easter weekend dining.
• • •
FRUIT SALAD
1 cup pineapple juice
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsps. corn starch
1 egg, beaten
2 tsps. lemon juice
1 large container Cool Whip
1-19 oz. can pineapple chunks, drained. Reserve syrup.
2 oranges, peeled and cubed
2 apples, peeled and cubed
2 bananas, sliced green and red graps, chilled
In a saucepan stir together corn starch, sugar and pineapple juice. Add the beaten eggs. Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Chill.
Combine Cool Whip with the chilled starch mixture and add in prepared fruit. Toss lightly and serve.
Non-traditional food prepared for holiday dining
SWEET CARROTS
6-7 medium-sized carrots
2 tbsps. butter
2 tsps. brown sugar pinch of salt, to taste
Scrub and peel carrots and cut into rounds of equal size. Place in a saucepan and add water to cover. Cook until just tender, but not mushy.
Drain and add butter, salt and sugar. Stir over low heat until all carrots are evenly coated with the sauce. Serves 4. May be served warm or cold. •
WHIPPED POTATO CASSEROLE
10-12 medium potatoes
1/4 cup butter
1-8 oz. pkg. cream cheese
1 cup commercial sour cream
1/2 cup fine, dry bread crumbs
1 tsp. salt
pepper to taste
1/2 tsp. onion powder
3 tbsps. melted butter
Cook potatoes in salted boiling water until tender. Drain then return to stove top briefly to dry up some moisture in the pot.
Mash potatoes well with butter then add cream cheese, sour cream and seasonings. Beat until creamy and smooth. Transfer to a greased two quart casserole. Combine the melted butter with the crumbs and sprinkle over the top.
Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees F for 30-35
minutes. Makes about 10 servings. •
MOUSSE DESSERT
2 eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup white sugar
1 cup cholocate chips
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder, sifted
1 tsp. baking powder
1/8 tsp. salt
1-8 oz, pkg, cream cheese
1/2 cup whipping cream
2 tsps. icing sugar
1/2 tsp. almond flavouring
To make the base, beat together the eggs, oil and sugar until fluffy.
Stir dry ingredients together and add to egg mixture. Stir in chocolate chips.
Pour into a greased 9 inch springform pan. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes. Cool then remove from pan.
For the topping, combine the whipping cream, icing sugar and flavouring and whip until thickened. Set aside.
Beat cream cheese thoroughly and stir in whipping cream mixture. Spread over the base.
Garnnish with chocolate curls if desired. Refrigerate for several hours. Serves about 10 diners.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Central Cyclones mascot Bobo sweeps the court. Robert Thomas photo.
Melville Cobras coach. Robert Thomas photo.
Cowboy watches the 5A boys final. Robert Thomas photo.
Melville Cobras’ fans bleed purple. Robert Thomas photo.
PA Carlton wore a sea of red at the 5A boys final. Robert Thomas photo.
BIZWORLD
By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
It has been some time since the phrase “his ship came in’’ was popular.
The phrase, meaning that someone has suddenly come into wealth, has been replaced by “hit the jackpot,” a reflection of modern life that winning the lottery is the only way to get wealthy.
The live-on-the-phone generation may have come with a different description of new wealth.
The term, my ship came in, owes its existence to the first markets trading stocks in 1602 at Amsterdam.
Shipping investments at the time were in vogue and lucrative.
To finance a ship sailing to the West Indies for rum or sugar, took a lot of money and risk. Atlantic storms could sink the ship. Pirates could loot the cargo and steal the ship. Investors spread the risk by pooling money to finance the ship. Each owned a share of
Has your ship come in? — origins explained
That’s how the words shares and stock came to describe ownership.
That early Amsterdam Stock Exchange traded in commodities from silk, rum, spices, sugar to tulip bulbs.
By the late 1700s - early 1800s, the stock exchange system had expanded to London, England and New York.
A securities trading system taken for granted today slowly evolved from the need to trade commodities and set prices.
Once a ship had set sail the cargo investors worried about the prospects of return and making a profit.
It became natural to hedge the investment by selling some of the shares for future delivery, thus offsetting risk.
Trading of shares of cargo stock occurred when investors found the need for immediate cash.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
on future price of undelivered cargo started commodity futures trading.
Those with high risk tolerance bought their share of cargo on margin, putting down a deposit and borrowing the rest, leading to margin buying.
Early trading developed some interesting bubbles.
A financial bubble describes the situation where speculation has pushed the price of a commodity so far out of proportion that the bubble will burst and prices will come tumbling down.
Two of the more interesting bubbles were the Tulip mania Bubble and the South Seas Bubble of 1720 in England.
During the Tulip mania bubble of the 1630s investors drove the price of one tulip bulb higher than the price of a house in Amsterdam.
The South Sea Bubble was a Ponzi
company at ever higher prices and paying early investors with money from recent sales.
Books on both make interesting reads and offer insight to human greed when fear of missing out hysteria strikes.
The history of our financial system is not boring but rife with rascals, schemes and some saints.
More recent bubbles took in the collapse of technology stocks in 2000. Anybody with a business plan and no revenue could float a company and raise millions from greedy investors.
Even more recent was the 2008 financial crisis when the global system came within a hair of collapsing.
Collapse was averted when central banks and governments took action to prop up the major currencies. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@
Farmland values increase 9.5 per cent in Sask.
Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Canadian farmland values increased almost four times the rate of inflation in 2025.
The average value of farmland was up 9.3 per cent, according to the Farm Credit Canada annual land value survey.
Inflation rate was 2.4 per cent last year.
FCC vice-president J.P. Gervais said the value defied expectations of slower growth in value.
Demand seemed stronger for land with expectation of more production growth.
The trade war seemed to have some impact on land values. Values were up six per cent in the first half of the year.
The long-term outlook is bright, said Gervais.
The FCC report noted land value growth varied with crop conditions.
Saskatchewan farmland averaged a 9.5 per cent gain, above the national average but less than Alberta, Manitoba and Nova Scotia.
Within Saskatchewan, farmland prices varied from limited crops and different quality crops.
The northwest and northeast had value gains at 12.4 per cent and 12.1 per cent respectively.
Cultivated land in the northwest averaged $3,900 an acre with prices from $2,200 to $6,200 an acre. In the northeast, land averaged $4,700 an acre with variation between $2,200 and $6,000.
West central land averaged $3,700 an acre with variation from $3,200 to $6,000.
East central prices averaged $3,600 ranging between $2,000 and $5,500.
Southeast farmland averaged $3,500 an acre from $1,900 to $7,000.
In the southwest drought region farmland averaged $2,800 an acre between $1,500 and $4,500.
Irrigation land in the two main regions averaged $9,800 an acre from $7,300 to $11,700.
Pasture land values were highest in the northwest and northeast by 12.8 per cent and 11.5 per cent respectively.
West central pasture was up a mere one per cent while east central pasture was up 2.4 per cent.
Southeast pasture land was up 10.2 per cent, running between $800 and $2,000 an acre.
Pasture land in the southwest was up 3.3 per cent with the lowest range in value — $700 to $1,000.
Land values in Alberta averaged an 11.4 per cent gain with Manitoba gaining 12.2 per cent.
The potato growing provinces did well. Nova Scotia was up 9.1 per cent; New Brunswick was up 11.6 per cent; and Prince Edward Island was up 8.5 pr cent
Ontario and Quebec farmland gained 4.8 per cent
British Columbia experienced the only decline by one per cent in land values.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Sudoku #5 - Challenging
What lies behind you and what lies in front of you, pales in comparison to what lies inside of you. 3 5 8 4 6 9 3 2 4 7 4 6 9 8 3 2 3 5 7 6 9 7 5 4 7 6 1 2
ACROSS
1. Manila hemp
49. Type of cereal grass
11. Lengthwise
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.
6. A bushy hairdo
50. For fear that
12. Female ruff
13. Terminated
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.
14. Army rank
15. Neophyte, in modern slang
54. Engendered
56. Sticky substances
57. Tree gardens
21. Music disc
25. Carbohydrate
26. Soft greasy substances
27. Twice-baked bread
16. Beasts of burden
Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle. Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck.
17. Absurd
18. “Oh dear!”
19. Told an untruth
20. Epinephrine
22. Wash
23. Seaweed
24. Climbed
26. Worry
30. Plead
31. Seated oneself
32. Car
33. Utiliser
35. Review
39. Destructive sea wave
41. Offense
43. Where clouds are
44. Skin disease
46. Gulf port
47. Women’s ___
63. L L L L
64. Bantu language
65. Last
66. Type of fastener
67. Anagram of “Need”
68. Muse of poetry
69. “Iliad” city
70. Geek
71. Employ again
DOWN
1. Dogfish
2. Orchestra
3. Partially open
4. Funnel shape
5. Sporting venue
6. Painlessness
7. Greenery
8. Horse color
9. Preoccupy
10. Incidental
28. Decorative case
29. In a monotone
34. Play boisterously
36. An abandoned calf or lamb
37. Long, long time
38. Confined
40. Largest continent
42. Metric unit of length
45. Shoemaker
48. Bold
51. Go-between
52. Frigid
53. Infantile paralysis
55. Postpone
58. Uncouth
59. Rubber wheel
60. Sloth
61. Thick padding
62. Blackthorn
205 WANTED
Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-313-3439.
Local buyer looking for sport card collections, retro video games, and systems, toys from the 80’s, 90’s and earlier. Basement estate and clean outs welcome. Cash paid. Call or text 306-527-7786.
210 SERVICES
Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268
Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, finishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofing/siding- no job too big or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver any appliances, tvs, furniture, or anything large in and around Moose Jaw, $45 and
CLASSIFIED ADS
up. Junk to the dump $60/load. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $25 each. 1000 Litre plastic totes - $50. 45-gallon metal barrels, $15 each. 306681-8749
Seniors ... need help with cleaning, decluttering, organizing, or small chores? Reasonable rates. Please call 306-313-8122.
I will do your taxes. Many years of experience. Personal and business. Please call Vienna at 250-308-9201.
Offering pet cleaning services. I can clean your litter boxes, back yard, and more. Call 306-9900214
145 REAL ESTATE
1500 Square foot condo, located at 149 Hoch. St. W. Single at tached garage, large deck at rear and off master bedroom, HEAT
ED OUTDOOR POOL, new steel exterior wall, new roofing on flat roof, new white vinyl fence, newer A/C, large tub in master. Please call 306-631-0525.
188 HEALTH & BEAUTY SUPPLIES
Mobility Scooter for Sale: The Express Element –
Range 50 km, tubeless tires, LED lights, horn, speed up to 25/km, rear basket, under seat storage, and bag hook. BRAND NEW $3995.00. Call 306-694-1322 for more information.
LOST CAT - $1000 REWARD for information proving her location, confidentiality guaranteed. Missing from West Park area. Believed to be stolen and living in West Park. Answers to June. Please call 306-313-7771.
Refreshing Moments A Devotional
by Alex Allan
Printed with Permission
Pastor Alex Allan is a Moose Jaw retired credentialed minister in the Church of God in Western Canada and has served as a hospital chaplain and is an experienced pastoral counsellor. He has an extensive background in communications, having worked in radio, television and print media.
God is Our Father
God is the One who created us and He knows our every need.
When Jesus taught us to pray the Lord’s Prayer He began with the words, Our Father.
It is important we recognize God as our Father. It gives us the assurance we are His children and have a special relationship with Him through Jesus Christ.
Children are dependent upon their fathers for many things. And God, our Father, wants us to know that we can depend on Him to supply our needs,
comfort us, and always be present with us.
Those in Christ are all God’s children. Not His step children. I am part of a blended family and Dad Woolvett referred to all the boys as son – never step son. What a sense of belonging he created for each member of our family.
One of the great lessons I have learned in life is that I can always go to my heavenly Father in the good times and in the challenging moments of life.
Acknowledging God as my father comforted me when I was diagnosed with cancer. Some days were difficult, but when I turned to God my father, He brought a peace to my being that
sustained me through the challenging time. I knew I was not alone. His presence brought com- fort and reassurance to my heart and peace to my mind that gave me the strength to carry on.
As a father, God through the presence of Holy Spirit and His Word encourages me every day. Just knowing He is with me gives me a constant source of strength to draw on.
We need to realize that through the Bible, He teaches us right from wrong. He shares the tools we need to live a disciplined life and to discover the joy that comes from walking with Him.
When we acknowledge our heavenly Father daily, we discover how
much He loves us and provides for us. When we take time to talk with Him, He speaks to us in comforting and encour- aging ways.
We don’t have to imagine the wonders of our Heavenly Father’s care in our lives. We can ex- perience them!
The excerpt above was extracted from a devotional book that was written to encourage individuals in their daily walk with Christ to provide practical guidance and encouragement. If you are interested in purchasing the book, please email RefreshingMoments@ outlook.com
Shriners look to build on momentum ahead of annual Children’s Festival
With summer on the horizon, the Moose Jaw Shrine Club is preparing for the return of its annual Children’s Festival, turning its focus toward building community partnerships to support the event.
An informal kickoff event held March 27 at the Shrine Club brought together returning sponsors and invited new partners to get involved in the free, family-focused festival, scheduled for June 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Wakamow Valley.
Shrine Club president Chuck Cole said the festival continues to grow each year, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and creating a positive experience for children.
“It’s been growing by leaps and bounds every year. The children love it. It’s all about the kids, so we can raise money to help children with afflictions and burns, and send them to hospitals to get the care they need,” Cole said, reflecting on the club’s mission to help children access specialized medical care.
The event has evolved from the former Shrine Circus into its current format over the past two decades, reflecting a shift toward a more accessible, com-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
munity-focused experience. Organizers say rising costs associated with traditional circus events created barriers for families, prompting the move to a free outdoor festival where children can take part without added expense. Today, the Children’s Festival is designed to keep the focus on participation and enjoyment, offering a full day of activities without financial pressure.
The festival will once again be held at the Wakamow Valley skating oval, a location Cole described as well-suited to the occasion.
“(The venue is) easily controlled from all ends, and they’re great people to work with. (Wakamow Valley Authority) is a good organization, and we’re proud to work with them,” he said.
While the full program is still being finalized, organizers confirmed that several popular attractions are expected to return, including games, bouncy castles, a petting zoo, and the returning Thomas the Tank Engine train rides. Additional features are also in development, with announcements expected in the coming weeks.
Aaron Ruston, who is assisting with
sponsorship outreach, said interest is building.
“Our hope is to have many more children attend than ever before … it’ll be an exciting day,” Ruston said. “We’re having more people come on board all the time, which is a good thing. It’s going to be a lot of fun, with a lot of work leading up to it, but it’s great to have the whole team involved.”
Members of the Moose Jaw Shrine Club gather for a group photo during a March 27 kickoff event for the upcoming Children’s Festival. Businesses that contribute $200 or more are recognized on the event’s growing sponsorship wall in the background. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Organizers emphasized that community support will play a key role in delivering the event, noting that contributions of all sizes are welcome.
“There are varying levels of support, (which) are being set up right now,” Ruston said. “Every penny is important and contributes to what we’re doing for children on that day.”
Organizers are continuing to seek support from the community to help bring this year’s festival to life. Businesses that contribute $200 or more will
be recognized on the event’s growing sponsorship wall, while residents are encouraged to donate at any level, as every contribution helps support a full day of activities for local children.
Those interested in sponsoring or making a donation can contact the club at MooseJawShrineClub@gmail.com. More details about the event are expected in the weeks leading up to June 13, with additional information available at MooseJawShrineClub.WildApricot.org.
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.
Incidence
The incidence of the incident is illustrated by the instance. This might seem a bit confusing but it is not an April Fool’s conundrum. In other words, the rate of occurrence of jokes on April Fool’s Day is illustrated by the numerous examples that occur. Incidence, incident, and instance are similar but applied in different ways. Incidence and incident are derived from the Latin word incidere, meaning to fall upon, to happen to. Incident refers to a particular event. Incidence implies the rate of occurrence of the event. The sighting of a cougar in Moose Jaw is an incident. However, there are really very few incidences of cougar sightings in the Moose Jaw area.
The word incidence was first used in 1626 to mean the angle that a line of a ray of light or shadow makes on a surface perpendicular to the surface at the point of contact. This expanded to suggest the arrival of the ray at the surface. Then, incidence became the act or manner of falling upon or affecting something. Eventually, it was used for the rate of occurrence or influence. In many cities there is a high incidence of crime in the downtown area compared to the suburbs. Instance comes from the Latin word instare meaning to be present, to press upon. Originally, in Middle English, instance implied an urgent entreaty.
The duke was called to the palace at the instance of the king. By the late 1550s instance was used to denote a particular thing cited to disprove a statement, derived from the medieval Latin use of instantia as an example to the contrary. It was not long before instance came to mean a single happening.
So, on April Fool’s Day ( April 1), there are many instances of incidents of practical jokes. The incidence of the pranks varies from year to year.
There is no clear cut origin for April Fool’s Day. Although, some reference the French adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1564. The start of the year was moved from April 1 to January 1. Communication of the change was slow, plus there were many who resisted the change. Those traditionalists who continued to celebrate the New Year on April 1 were ridiculed and deemed ‘April Fools.’
Many cultures around the world have festivals near the Spring equinox (March 20-21) featuring mischief and pranks, which may have influenced a special day for such things on April 1. Ancient Rome celebrated Hilaria (joyful) around the end of March when people dressed in disguises and pranked neighbours and, especially, magistrates.
Occurrence, episode, circumstance, and incident all mean something that happens or takes place.
Occurrence applies to a happening without intent, volition, or plan. Running into my neighbour at the grocery store was a chance occurrence.
Episode implies the distinctiveness of an event. He had a brief episode of depression in his well-ordered life.
Circumstance means a specific detail concerning an event as part of its setting. She could not recall the exact circumstances that led to her slipping on the ice. Incident suggests an event of brief duration or secondary importance. There was a minor incident among the fans at the hockey game between the rivals. Instance, illustration, and example denote something that exhibits distinguishing characteristics. Instance pertains to any person, act, or thing that may be offered to explain the event. The military conflict in the Middle East is an instance of history repeating itself.
Illustration applies to an event offered as a means
of clarifying. Trying to put together a baby crib is a telling illustration of Murphy’s Law, ‘Nothing is as easy as it looks.’
Example pertains to a typical, representative case. End of fiscal year government spending is a typical example of bureaucratic waste.
Here is an April Fool’s prank that has a low incidence in my world but might be a good incident to try but only for one instance. Fill a mayonnaise jar with vanilla pudding and casually eat spoonful after spoonful of the container, then offer some to your friend.
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.
TRINITY UNITED CHURCH
Iroquois St W Moose Jaw, SK
Next Service: Apr 5th, 2026 10:30am
Doug Shepherd
Jaw Health Foundation
Jaw, SK S6J 0C2
TOPOLINSKY, TINA EILEEN
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tina Eileen Topolinsky (née: Metin) on Monday, January 5th, 2026. Tina was born on August 24th, 1945, in Carman, Manitoba. Tina was a loyal, passionate, and vibrant person who truly lived life to the fullest. She touched many lives throughout her years with her warmth, humour, and unforgettable spirit. If you were on Tina’s good side, you had a
She was known for her great sense of humour, her ability to listen, and her many hobbies and talents. Tina was an amazing cook who loved bringing people together with her food. She also loved music and good company — no jam session was ever complete without Tina singing her
Above all, Tina was a loving, passionate, and caring mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and will forever remain in our hearts.
She was predeceased by her parents, John and Florence Metin; daughter, Denise Topolinsky; siblings: William (Bill) Metin, Sherri Hoffos, and Gordon (Bud) Metin; and her beloved cat, Katie, who she adored deeply. Tina will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Sheila (Dell) Bellrose; grandchildren; Nathan and his daughter Grey, Dylan (Samantha), Nicole, and Cordell, Jessica (Corey) and their daughters Chloe and Emily; and siblings: Linda Archer, Walter Metin, and Terri
and sister-in-law Penny Donald. She is also survived by her special dog Jasper and several nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins.
The family owes a heartfelt thank you to Dr. K. Hagel, nurse Sarah and the oncology care staff at the Allen Blair Cancer Centre, to the staffs on Units 3A, 4B and 5 at the Pasqua Hospital, to Laura and Jamie with the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and as well, to the Rochester Mayo Clinic and the Princess Margaret Cancer Clinic.
Funeral service will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 4825 Dewdney Avenue, Regina on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 3pm with Pastor Dennis Hendricksen officiating. The service will also be live streamed at www.clcregina.ca. Immediately after the funeral, the family welcomes everyone to the Royal Regina Golf Club at 5401 11th Ave.
Arrangements, messages and condolences can be submitted in care of Speers Funeral & Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Allen Blair Cancer Centre in Regina, Pancreatic Cancer Canada or a medical foundation of your choice.
A Celebration of Tina’s Life will be held on Saturday, May 30th, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at The Union Centre, 1402 Caribou St W, Moose Jaw, SK. Understanding this is not the end of it or the beginning the process of life and poetry is greater than the words used to describe them
damaged souls and sunsets can only be understood with the heart — Terri Bosner
As an expression of sympathy, donations in Tina’s name may be made to the Moose Jaw Humane Society, Box 1658 Station Main, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7K7. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Shirese Noble Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
Snow Mold –Is It Real?
By Richard Dowson, Moose Jaw
Friends told me there was Snow Mold. I didn’t believe them. Well, turns out snow mold is real!
Snow mold is a lawn fungus. It grows on your grass, under heavy snow and loves cold and dampness. In my case it loves the lawn under the snow piles I create with the blower-blower.
Snow mold can be pink and gray. It’s gray on my lawn. It appears when the snow melts. I get little ugly patches of white crap, which is gray snow mold fungus.
From what I read, the best way to deal with it, is to rake the gray patches so the mold is thinned out and air can get in and dry it. If the patch persists you might have to reseed.
Be safe! Wear a mask when you rake the mold because it releases little spores.
Allergies
As the snow melts and exposes snow mold, it releases nasty spores that effect people with allergies. Individuals get the usual symptoms –congestion, itchy eyes and sneezing.
Ask your Physician or Pharmacists for recommendations on how to deal with the allergic reaction.
Fungal Nats
Gerry Hukaluk of Moose Jaw lived and worked in the Arctic for decades. He told me he’d seen tiny, little flies eat the snow mold in the Arctic. I checked it out.
From what I read the flies are probably ‘fungal gnats
“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you.” -- Jesus Christ --
THE SALVATION ARMY MAJOR MARGARET FOLEY, RETIRED PROMOTED TO GLORY
“Summoned home, the call has sounded, Bidding a soldier her warfare cease …”
On Sunday, 22 nd March 2026 at 5:18 p.m. Major Margaret Foley was Promoted to Glory and began to worship Jesus face to face. She had spent her life in service to God and The Salvation Army, and she knew exactly where she would go and what she would see when she got there.
Margaret was born January 9 th , 1944 in Neepawa, Manitoba to parents Jim and Sylvia Foley. Her father, Jim, worked for the Canadian National Railway and the first years of Margaret’s life were spent in various CN water stops in rural Manitoba and Saskatchewan. In about 1950, Jim’s posting took him to Yorkton, SK where contact was made with The Salvation Army and Marg became an enthusiastic Sunday School child. At the age of seven, she committed her life to Jesus and promised to love and serve Him for the rest of her life. Promise Kept! She became a Junior Soldier of The Army, and at age 14 in Portage La Prairie she became a Senior Soldier and her lifelong journey of service began.
By the age of 21 Margaret was commissioned a Lieutenant of The Salvation Army and the next 40 years saw her serve in appointments from British Columbia to New Brunswick that included Church pastoring, Seniors’ Residences, services to vulnerable new mothers, homeless women’s shelter, and Executive Director of The Salvation Army Agape Hospice in Calgary. In every appointment, whether serving sandwiches to homeless persons, or meeting with wealthy donors, Marg always served everyone as if they were the most important person to enter her life that day.
Marg was blessed with two sisters, Elizabeth (Ned, deceased) and Sharon (Stretch, deceased), and three brothers: James Douglas (deceased), John (Carol), and David (Diane) – although it was never clear that she always thought it was a blessing. Marg was always the substitute parent and had the responsibility of caring for her siblings after her mother went to work. The family lived for several years in Winnipeg where there were cousins from the Leech, Scott and Hedley Foley families to provide instant friends and lots of love and laughter. She always regretted not having that same close connection with the Foreman cousins because they lived in Ontario.
In 2004 Marg retired to Moose Jaw, SK to be close to some of her family. Here she found post retirement employment and fellowship at the local Salvation Army church. She made friends instantly with almost everyone and “many called her blessed”. Even in recent years, she made lots of friends when living in places like Athabasca Tower, Fairview Apartments, and Mulberry Retirement Centre, and she enjoyed lots of fellowship with walking buddies in The Mall. When she realized that her time on earth was coming to a close, she looked forward with great anticipation to her new life in Heaven with her Saviour and loved ones gone before.
“Well done thou good and faithful servant … enter now into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:23)
The Funeral Service was held on Friday, March 27 th , 2026 at 1:30 p.m. at Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Major Byron Kean and Lieutenant Linda Kean co-officiated, and interment has taken place in the Moose Jaw Funeral Home Columbarium. In lieu of flowers, donations in Marg’s name may be made to the Salvation Army Church, 2 Wintergreen Drive, Moose Jaw, SK S6J 1M9. Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane. Andrew Pratt, Funeral Director 306-693-4550 www.moosejawfuneralhome.com
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress. com
Town ‘N Country Mall
50+ coffee club Meet & Greet every Monday @2pm at Engage Cafe
Saturday April 4 - 1pm to 4pm: Face Painting, Cookie Decorating, Easter Crafts and Egg Hunt 1pm to 5pm. Easter Bunny Photos Only $10 Tuesday April 7 Green Shirt Day with information on Organ Donations posted on the walls.
Thursday April 9 Vimy Ridge Day with trivia questions posted on the wall at centre court.
Saturday April 11 Sunflower Planting Event. Come plant sunflowers and take them home to look after. There will be a prize for the largest sunflower.
Thursday April 16 @ 4pm Sask Polytech Startup Challenge Final Pitch Event. Entrepreneurs compete for $25,000 in prizes.
Friday April 24 - 11am to 5pm and Saturday April 25 9am to 2pm there will be a Second Chance Community Sale. A bunch of sellers with their used goods all in 1 space. If interested in more information email gail@ptccyvr.com
Drinkwater Spring Trade Show will be held on April 11th from 9am-5pm. $2 admission, enter for for prizes. Come out and enjoy the day shopping for treasures, amazing hand-crafted products and homemade goodies! Watch for the signs on the highway and town. Homemade lunch available. Vendors will be featured on Facebook page. For more information call Buck @ 306-681-9442
Dr Wigmore Hospital Auxiliary Spring used book and puzzle sale Monday, April 13 to Saturday, April 25th, Hospital Lobby from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. All book/puzzle donations greatly appreciated
Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation 29th Annual Fundraising Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 18 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre, 250 Thatcher Drive East. Doors Open at 5:30 pm Roast Beef Supper @ 7:00 p.m./Tickets - $50.00. Contact- Doreen @ 306-692-4148/ Sandra @ 306-692-8848
Email:mjwildlife.federation@gmail.com. All proceeds raised go towards supporting our many projects within the community.
National Association of Federal Retirees Branch 23 Annual General Meeting will be April 16 (Thursday) at 2 pm in the card room in Tim Eaton’s, 510 Main Street North (handicapped accessible building). All available members please attend. Last meeting not enough showed up to have a quorum. Currently we only have 2 executives left and they have served over 10 years each and wish to step down. So, members must either elect new executive officers...4 are needed, or we need to discuss dissolution and join Regina Branch. To dissolve we must vote on this and notify the National Board we wish to join the Regina branch
We rely on our membership so Please attend and vote while having coffee.
South Saskatchewan Wildlife Association annual awards night and banquet April 18. Tickets available, contact Gregg 306-692-9822. Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum Inc Annual General Meeting on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum, 292 - 22nd Street Battleford SK. Phone: 306 446 1983. Bridge Lessons until April 23 for 9 wks. – Every Thursday from 7 pm to 9 pm. Cost $40/person at the Cosmo Centre, 235 3rd Ave NE. More info: Anita – 306-630-1256 anitadunkz@gmail.com or Gail – 306-630-9430
Scottish Country Dancing has resumed at 7 pm on Thursdays @Timothy Eaton’s Centre, 510 Main St. N. No partner required. Ages 8 and up including grandparents. Contact: Val, 306-6305790
White Heather Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw looking for new players ages eight and older. New players will have the opportunity to try out drum sticks on pads and practice chanters with the instructors and will be introduced to some of the children already members of the band. Contact Michelle Carline at <mcarline@hotmail.com>
The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. At Zion church from Sept to May.
The Moose Jaw Stamp Club has resumed meeting the second and fourth Wednesday nights of the month at 7:00pm at the Lindale School staff room. For information call 306-693-5705.
Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: February, March, April and May.
Meetings are held at Hillcrest Apostolic Church, Moose Jaw. Call or text 306 756 2819
Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. 2025-2026 Program on Monday nights from 7-9 pm at St. Margaret’s School, 449 5Th Ave NE. Dance in square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles, or doubles welcome!
Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month status 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 twelvestep 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.
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) 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.
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and can be reached at MooseJawLibrary.ca, by calling 306-6922787, or by emailing Ask@MJLibrary.ca. Check the library’s Facebook page for updates, as programs may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 693 Fairford St W. Contact: 306-692-5453
Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Friday 9:30am4:00pm
Consignment Area – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-3pm, Wednesdays 10am12pm
Cosmo Centre Activities - cosmoseniorcentre.com; 235 - 3rd Ave NE, (306) 692-6072, cosmo@sasktel. netCosmo Coffee Shoppe - open daily from 9:00a - 3:00p Lunch Special - $10/ person Tuesdays 11:30a Pie Special - $4.50/ person Thursdays 10:00a - 3:00p Fitness
Room - 8:15a - 3:00p Indoor Walking - various times Pickleball - various times Beginner Line Dance - Monday 10:45a Floor ShuffleboardMonday & Wednesday 1:00p Weekly DanceTuesdays 9:30a Fitness Class - Wednesday 10:45a Line Dance - Thursday 10:00a CanastaThursday 1:30p Euchre - Thursday 10:30a Cornhole - Friday 10:45a Crib - Friday 1:00p
Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@ sasktel.net
• Every Monday and Tuesday 1 – 6:30 pm
• Wednesday 12 – 6:30 pm/Smear starts at 12:30 pm
• Thursday 12 – 6:30 pm/Crib starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a friend or sign up for spare
• Friday 1 – 10:00 pm/Shuffleboard starts at 1 pm. Bring a friend and join in!/Pool and darts start at 7 pm.
• Saturday 1 – 6:30 pm/Drop in pool in afternoon. Meat draws start at 4:30 pm - 10 draws, 4 free draws, drink tickets, gift card, 50/50. Everyone 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”. Everyone welcome – non-members just make sure that you have “signed in” as a guest in order to participate.
EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace”. Everyone welcome – non-members just make sure that you have “signed in” as a guest in order to participate. MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles.
EVERY MONDAY EVENING – DROP IN CRIBBAGE – Registration 6:00 t 6:30 pm – play starts 7:00 pm – bring a partner - $2.00 each to play. September thru to April.
EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING – DROP IN DARTS – Draw for Partners, Play starts at 7:00 pm - $2.00 per person. September thru to April. EVERY THURSDAY EVENING – DROP IN SHUFFLEBOARD – Draw for Teams - Play starts at 7:00 pm - $2.00 per person.
FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting –11:30 am FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm
SATURDAY, APRIL 25 - CABARET Eagles Club Hall - Music by Stray Dogs - Advance Tickets available at the Eagles Club bar - $20.00 - $25.00 at the door. Doors open at 7:30, Music starts at 8:30.
SATURDAY, JUNE 27 - EAGLES LOT PARTY!!!! Bands, Dancing, Bar, Food….watch for upcoming posts for more details.
SUNDAY, JUNE 28 - EAGLES LOT FUN DAY …. Pancake Breakfast, Games…..watch for upcoming posts for more details. Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca
Treaty Timeline: The treaty timeline exhibit has now moved from Moose Jaw to the North Battleford branch of the WDM and will remain on view until April 10.
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.
306-694-4747
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E.G. (Bub) Hill REALTOR® (306) 631-9966
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Cassie Nichol REALTOR® (306) 631-0691
Justin Hammer REALTOR® (306)684-4266
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Highway 2 overpass construction shifts traffic ahead of next phase in Moose Jaw
Traffic patterns at the Highway 2 overpass are set to change in the coming weeks as construction resumes on a major infrastructure project north of the city.
According to an update released March 26 by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways, the $33.7-million project to raise Highway 2 over the Trans-Canada Highway is entering its next phase, with new restrictions expected to begin as early as April 9.
At that time, the existing southbound bridge on Highway 2 will be closed, with two-way traffic shifting
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
onto the newly constructed northbound bridge. The change will allow crews to demolish the aging structure and begin work on its replacement.
The ministry noted that Highway 1 traffic passing underneath the overpass will also be reduced from four lanes to two throughout the construction season.
The current phase builds on progress made last year when the new northbound bridge was completed and opened to traffic in October 2025. During the winter shutdown, motorists continued to use that structure alongside the original southbound bridge, while traffic on Highway 1 remained fully open beneath the overpass.
The project aims to replace both bridges with higher structures to improve clearance and reduce the risk of collisions involving oversized vehicles. The existing clearance at the site remains 4.5 metres and will stay unchanged
until the full project is completed.
The southbound bridge being removed is approximately 64 years old. Its replacement, along with upgrades to the affiliated on- and off-ramps, represents a significant portion of the remaining work.
Construction is expected to continue through the 2026 season, with completion anticipated by the end of the year, pending weather conditions. PCL
Construction is the contractor for the project.
Motorists travelling through the area can expect delays and changing traffic patterns as work progresses.
“Motorists are reminded to slow down, be alert in the area, and obey all signage — the Ministry of Highways
wants everyone to get home safely,” the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways said.
The overpass project was launched to address ongoing safety concerns at the site, where transport trucks have repeatedly struck the structure due to limited clearance. Once complete, the new design is expected to improve safety and traffic flow along this key transportation corridor.
The Government of Saskatchewan says it has invested more than $13 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 20,700 kilometres of highways across the province.
Motorists are reminded to check the Highway Hotline at Hotline.gov.sk.ca for real-time updates.
‘Celebrate Spring’ event cancelled in Wakamow Valley
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Wakamow Valley Authority cancelled its planned “Celebrate Spring” event, which had been scheduled for March 28 at Kiwanis River Park.
In a brief public notice shared online, organizers cited “unforeseen circumstances” as the reason for the cancellation.
The family-focused gathering had been planned as a replacement for this year’s Winterfest celebration, which was also cancelled earlier in the season due to warm weather and a lack of snow.
No further details about the cancellation were released.
Construction is seen on the Highway 2 overpass north of Moose Jaw during the 2025 season. The next phase of the project is set to begin as early as April 9, when the southbound bridge will close and traffic shifts to the new northbound structure. Photo by: Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways/Submitted
‘Classrooms on Ice’ wraps up another season of hands-on environmental education
The Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation (MJWF) has wrapped up another season of its long-running “Classrooms on Ice” program, giving hundreds of local students a hands-on introduction to environmental science and conservation.
The program concluded around March 13, following approximately two weeks of sessions held at Buffalo Pound Lake.
“They have approximately 400 kids each year,” said Sandra Dewald, treasurer of the MJWF.
The initiative, which has been running for decades, is designed to immerse students in real-world learning through outdoor, interactive experiences.
“They teach students about water quality and how to test it. The kids also take part in ice fishing, have lunch on site, and explore animal tracks while looking for wildlife,” Dewald said.
The program primarily serves Grade 5 and 6 students from Moose Jaw,
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
with demand often exceeding available space.
Classes are structured as half-day sessions lasting four to five hours, with students rotating through learning stations. These include lessons on fish physiology, water ecosystems, and responsible angling practices.
According to information provided by organizers, students conduct water quality tests measuring oxygen levels, pH, and other indicators, and examine aquatic life using tools such as underwater cameras and sediment samplers. They also observe fish anatomy through guided demonstrations and learn about the life cycle of fish species found in Saskatchewan lakes.
A key goal of the program is to foster environmental awareness at an early age by connecting classroom concepts with real-world applications.
on Ice” program at Buffalo Pound Lake, hosted by the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation. Photo by: Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation
“The purpose of the ‘Classrooms on Ice’ program is to provide the facilities, equipment, and instructors so students … can learn about healthy ecosystems, conservation, biology, plus many other natural sciences through hands-on, interactive exercises and observations,” said Jim Austin, chair of Classrooms on Ice.
In addition to scientific learning, students are introduced to responsible outdoor recreation, including the principles of catch-and-release fishing and sustainable resource management.
The program is delivered using a
combination of heated on-ice and shoreline classrooms, allowing students to safely engage with the winter environment while gaining practical experience.
Despite its local focus, the initiative has built a strong reputation over the years, with positive feedback from educators and participants alike.
“The wide-eyed looks, oohs and aahs, smiles and questions from the students are the real yardstick,” Austin noted.
The MJWF views the learning experience as a long-term investment in conservation, emphasizing the importance of educating future generations.
“As for the benefit to wildlife … the only way to ensure the continued legacy of conservation … is through planting the seeds of education and understanding in our youth,” Austin said.
With another successful season complete, the organization is already looking ahead to next year’s program, which is expected to once again draw strong interest from local schools.
For more information about the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation and its conservation efforts, visit “Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation” on Facebook or visit MJWildlife.ca.
Grand opening for Warp VR moved to April 4
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The grand opening event for Warp VR in downtown Moose Jaw has been rescheduled, with organizers shifting the event to Saturday, April 4, to better align with the Good Friday holiday.
The locally owned virtual reality entertainment centre, located at 57 High Street West, will host its official grand opening at 2 p.m., featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony and opportunities for visitors to experience the venue firsthand.
Owned and operated by Heidi Tiller and Justin Johnson, Warp VR recently opened its doors following
a soft launch earlier in March, offering free-roam virtual reality arenas, an interactive gaming wall, and party spaces for groups and events. Community members are invited to attend the April 4 event to mark the official opening and explore the new downtown attraction. For more information or to book a visit, contact 306-6905509 or visit WarpVRCenter.com.
Look for further details on Page A31 of the Wednesday, March 25, 2026, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
A student holds up a fish caught during last year’s “Classrooms
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