Moose Jaw Express, April 23rd, 2025

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Volume 18, Issue 17 | Wed., Apr 23, 2025

Homegrown Farmers Market set to return to Langdon Crescent in May Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw’s Homegrown Farmers Market is set to return to Langdon Crescent to mark the start of another season of local flavour and handmade goods starting Saturday, May 31.

The outdoor market, which will run whether rain or shine from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday, is still about a month away — but organizers are already in high gear.

“We’re filling up really quickly,” said Diane Kramski, manager of the farmers’ market. “I have maybe three spots left (as of April 11).”

Returning to its regular downtown location, the market will once again host a vibrant mixture of long-time favourites and some exciting new additions. Kramski noted that some regular vendors— including Prairie Bee Meadery, the McMahon Hutterite Colony with their vegetables and beef, and a variety of crafters and bakers — will be returning.

This year will also see an influx of new faces, with some fresh products and two new musicians set to attend.

“We have a lot of new vendors coming, so that’s exciting,” she said.

While most vendor categories are well represented, Kramski said there’s still room — although limited — for those offering products such as spices, candles, eggs, and jewelry.

After a pause on the sale of farmfresh eggs at previous farmers’ markets in Saskatchewan due to proposed changes in the provincial Food Safety Regulations, market vendors are now able to sell eggs once again.

Kramski noted that market vendors wishing to sell eggs must adhere to specific requirements, including washing, properly labelling, and keeping the eggs stored at 4 C. With a cap of around 31 vendor spots

due to limited space, Kramski carefully balances the lineup to avoid too much overlap in vendor offerings.

“We only have limited space, so we don’t want to double up on (the same type of vendor)…, like (having) a lot of bakers,” she explained.

Among the list of confirmed vendors are soap and body product makers, African and Mexican food vendors, a woodworking artist, a flower grower, and sellers of preserves, crafts, honey, and fresh baking.

Musical entertainment is also returning, with two new buskers scheduled to perform throughout the season.

The Homegrown Farmers Market remains a rain-or-shine event and is set to continue drawing hundreds of visitors each weekend.

“We look forward to seeing everyone attend again this year,” Kramski added.

Those interested in applying as a vendor can visit MJHomeGrownMarket. com. Food vendors are required to fill out a public health form, also available on the website.

Once open, the market will continue every Saturday along the 400 block of Langdon Crescent, across from the Moose Jaw Public Library in the heart of downtown Moose Jaw.

PAGE A2 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Amazon Prime picks up season 1 of Moose Jaw screenwriter’s TV series Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw-based screenwriter Dustan J. Hlady was blown away when he learned that online streaming giant Amazon Prime Video had picked up the first season of his multi-episode show.

“I was pretty stoked. I didn’t expect to get a streaming service that’s so recognizable,” he said recently. “The people I was working with, they (distributor Filmhub) work with over 2,000 streamers, and so I was expecting to get on with some streaming service I’d never heard of.

“So, it was exciting in that Amazon Prime gave us the go-ahead.”

Hlady described the 19-episode show, “SIN3056843,” as a “light-hearted psychological thriller” about a documentary filmmaker who is obsessed with a late 1970s experimental cult-classic film and attempts to meet the reclusive director to understand the meaning of the convoluted film.

During her journey, the documentarian discovers there might be something paranormal about the film, while her existence is also called into question.

The series will debut in June.

The Moose Jaw filmmaker worked

legacy

A behind-the-scenes look at the TV series, “SIN3056843.” Photo contributed

Screenwriter Dustan Hlady. Photo contributed

on this project for three years, starting with the pilot episode, which he used to generate money for the first season.

He worked with a team to shoot and edit the series — the director of photography was Jeremy Ratzlaff, a well-known Moose Jaw filmographer — while he worked to find a distributor, which was “a whole other task.”

“So, it’s a lot of work along the way, but it’s starting to pay off,” he remarked.

The series is set in Los Angeles since the fictional documentary filmmaker’s quest takes her to the southern California city. While Hlady did visit the City of Angels to acquire secondary footage, he shot 95 per cent of the series in and around Moose Jaw. Meanwhile, he worked with a cast and crew of more than 100 people, which he said was small compared to previous productions on which he’d worked.

While there was only one main actor, there were many supporting actors.

Christina Persson, an actress and producer from Regina, is the series’ main character, while she is also a singer

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with the band The Wonts.

Hlady developed the storyline himself, noting that he wrote the synopsis years ago, since it takes time for a longform project to be created. Once he’s ready to write a script, he looks back at his synopsis and attempts to determine what the most interesting idea is from his initial thoughts.

Christina Persson, the main character in The screenwriter credited Ratzlaff the series. Photo contributed with introducing him to the 1977 Ameri- down because it was too long. Morecan independent surrealist body horror over, he didn’t have the money to make film “Eraserhead,” which “mesmerized” it as long as he wanted. him and showed him that there were no “There’s still a lot more story left to rules to storytelling and that everything tell,” he added. was acceptable.

In his career, Hlady has made two “I just kind of had this really crazy full-length features and several pilots idea and I thought, ‘That’s interesting and short films, while this latest projto me. Maybe it will be interesting to ect is his first series. While he felt that somebody else,’” Hlady said. a series can be considered a disposable Hlady said he was “very proud” of medium compared to films, he found the first season, noting that people who it much more difficult to make a series have seen it have reacted in different than a film. For example, the first season ways, with not every reaction positive is just under four hours long, which is since the show “can be a bit much for equivalent to making three movies. some people.” However, he is OK with Hlady added that it’s still possible that and is glad he made something to to make feature-length films in Saswhich people are responding. katchewan and that this province is just The Moose Jaw screenwriter says as good as Hollywood. it’s unlikely that there will be a second season anytime soon, since he must finish with marketing and promotions for season 1.

Meanwhile, Hlady said season 1 was supposed to be longer, but he was forced to cut it A still frame from the series. Photo contributed

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PAGE A4 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Jaw Express Publisher Guest Editorial byRobMoose Ritchie Why I’m Voting for the Person, Not the Party I’m done voting for parties. Full stop.

Over the years, I’ve watched how party politics has taken over elections. People don’t seem to care who the actual candidate is anymore — they just vote for the party colour. But here’s the thing: a party isn’t going to call you back. A party isn’t going to fix the road in front of your house or fight for your town. A person is. Or at least they should be.

And let’s be honest — a lot of them don’t.

Once they get elected, most of them just do what their party tells them. Doesn’t matter what their voters think. They toe the line, follow orders, and keep their head down so they don’t get in trouble with party brass. That’s not leadership.

That’s just keeping a seat warm.

What bugs me more lately is this: where the

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

heck are the candidates? I remember when they used to knock on doors, introduce themselves, shake your hand, and ask for your vote. Now it’s a couple signs and a Facebook post. That’s not campaigning. That’s coasting. If you’re too lazy or too scared to show up and face the people, then you don’t deserve to represent them.

And don’t even start with the “you’ll split the vote” crap. That’s just fear talk from people who want to keep the same old system in place.

A vote isn’t wasted if it’s for someone you actually believe in. You know what’s wasted? Voting for someone just because their party might win — even if you don’t trust them or know where they stand.

Here’s the blunt truth: election day is the only day we get to hire or fire our politicians. That’s it. That’s the moment. If they’ve done a lousy job or ignored the people, this is your shot to send them packing. But if you stay home, you’re basi-

cally saying, “I’m fine with the way things are.”

Not voting doesn’t make you neutral — it makes you part of the problem. You get what you allow.

So yeah, I’m voting for the person. I want someone who shows up, speaks their mind, and isn’t afraid to go against the grain if it means doing the right thing. I want someone who works for us — not someone who’s just trying to climb the political ladder.

Don’t ask me what party they’re with. I couldn’t care less. I want to know if they’ve got a backbone. I want to know if they’ve earned the vote — not just expected it.

Because I’m not voting for a colour, a logo, or a slogan.

I’m voting for someone who’ll actually show up and fight for the people who put them there.

So get off your butt and vote. Let’s make this the highest voter turnout in Canada. Election Day is April 28th. Make it count.

One family, one bond: Indigenous-inspired family support workshop coming to Moose Jaw Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. (MJFS) is teaming up with The Evermore Centre from Saskatoon to host a free Family Gathering event aimed at supporting families formed through non-traditional means on Saturday, April 26.

The event is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and will take place at HOMEBASE Youth Services, located at 52 High Street West.

The day will feature separate sessions for caregivers and children in the morning, followed by a shared family activity in the afternoon. It is designed for foster and adoptive parents, kinship and Person of Sufficient Interest (PSI) caregivers, and their families.

“So this is an event being put on by The Evermore Centre… and they connected with us to run it here in Moose Jaw,” said Tara Jones, executive director of MJFS. “They try and connect with a local organization to make (the gathering) relevant for the community (where it’s being held).”

The morning sessions will provide caregivers with trauma-informed content to support their parenting journey,

while children will engage in developmentally appropriate activities focused on expressing feelings.

After lunch, families will come together for a session on supporting Indigenous culture, concluding with an Indigenous-inspired craft activity.

“The goal is to support families who have grown through non-traditional means, and also to bring families together so that they can build their own support networks and meet other families who may have some shared similarities,” Jones explained.

“There will be a trauma-informed focus, and we really want caregivers to receive some meaningful content that supports them in their parenting journey.”

The Evermore Centre, formerly known as the Adoption Support Centre of Saskatchewan, provides support and education services to those impacted by permanency, including legal guardianship, PSI, kinship care, and adoption.

The centre has hosted similar Family Gathering events in various communities across the province in recent years, including a Traditional Adoption and Kinship Panel offered virtually on April 12.

This gathering will include a strong Indigenous component, welcoming Knowledge Keepers and representatives from the New Southern Plains Metis Local No. 160.

The Plains Cree name for the event, peyakôskân, translates as “one family, one bond, one tribe, one nation.” This term is meant to embody the concepts of unity, kinship, and collective identity within Cree culture. It remains a powerful Cree term, encapsulating the es-

sence of unity and serving as a reminder of the strength found in community and similar collective bonds.

“This is (intended) for all families,” Jones clarified. “There is a bit of a focus on bringing Indigenous teachings in, but in no way is it a requirement that anyone have an Indigenous heritage.

The teachings are going to be relevant regardless (of your background).”

The Family Gathering event is free to attend, with lunch provided at no additional cost. However, families must register in advance.

Families who are interested in attending are encouraged to register well ahead of time to ensure adequate planning for space and food. To register, visit EvermoreCentre.ca, call 306-6657272, or call 1-866-869-2727 toll-free.

To learn more about The Evermore Centre, visit EvermoreCentre.ca.

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

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A5

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MOOSE JAW BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS NOTES THE NEXT POLICE BOARD MEETING IS WEDNESDAY, MAY 21

New funding to help MJPS focus on supporting child abuse victims Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Police Service’s (MJPS) acting chief is excited that the provincial government is providing extra funding so the agency can better address child exploitation cases and support traumatized youths.

“It’s fantastic news. The application process was started about a year ago and we were delighted to find out that we were approved for this,” Acting Chief Rick Johns told reporters on April 11, following the funding announcement at police headquarters.

Tim McLeod, the MLA for Moose Jaw North and the province’s justice minister and attorney general, revealed during the news conference that the province was distributing $1.1 million from the criminal property forfeiture fund to police agencies, the provincial Victims’ Fund and other community programs.

Of that money, policing agencies in Moose Jaw, Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and File Hills (Fort Qu’Appelle), along with Regina Search and Rescue, will receive over $564,000.

The MJPS will receive $223,344, including: • $78,500 to create the Little Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre to provide a trauma-informed, child-friendly space to support the investigation and prosecution of offences against children • $54,217 to purchase audio, video and recording equipment for the centre to interview abused children and youths to facilitate investigations and prosecutions; this may also allow victims to testify remotely instead of appearing physically in court • $90,627 to enhance the investigation and prosecution of internet child exploitation (ICE) cases, including training two new ICE officers, upgrading video recording equipment in interview rooms and purchasing Faraday bags to prevent the loss, erasure or tampering of electronic evidence The province set aside the $1.1 million in its 202425 budget, while all affected policing agencies have now received the funding.

Meanwhile, the criminal property forfeiture fund

Every agency involved in the Moose Jaw Police Service’s new Little Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre — such as health, social services, the RCMP and Crown prosecutor’s office — gathers for a picture after the news conference. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

acquires revenue through the sale of forfeited property that was allegedly used in unlawful activity.

Having extra money to hire two officers for the ICE unit is great news since the province is helping the MJPS tackle significant operational pressures, specifically, many files that regularly come in, said Johns.

Furthermore, the agency will hire a second co-

The logo of the new Little Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre in Moose Jaw and an artist’s rendition of how a room in the new office will look. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

ordinator for its Victim Services Unit who can support Terri Roney, the main co-ordinator, and her support dog Sven, he continued.

“It’s been a vision of the Moose Jaw Police Service for about a year (to create a justice centre), and it really got some traction when we received approval for the funding,” the acting chief remarked. “We had a project team that we put together that … has done some really great work trying to get this justice centre up and running.”

The new centre will be in the community services branch office, which is in the former Times-Herald building, Johns said. The agency hopes the new venue will be open in a month or two.

The acting chief added that the oak tree was chosen as the justice centre’s logo because it symbolizes strength, resiliency and the ability to withstand challenges, while the centre’s “branches” — or partners — include the MJPS, social services, RCMP, health care and the Crown prosecutor’s office.

Roney said the advocacy centre is a vital community resource — a “centralized, compassionate response” — that represents a significant step in supporting vulnerable children and families who experience violence, abuse, neglect and trauma.

“Until now, children in our community who disclose abuse might have to tell their story multiple times, often in intimidating settings,” she told the crowd. “This adds unnecessary stress to an already traumatizing experience.

“Little Oak changes that … . The goal is to have children only tell their story once in a safe, supportive and trauma-sensitive environment,” Roney continued.

“This improves co-ordination, speeds up interventions and … reduces the emotional burden of a child.”

The victim services co-ordinator added that staff will support children’s recovery physically, emotionally and psychologically, while the centre will help break the cycle of abuse.

PAGE A6 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Exploring Canada staycations Some of the Trading Thoughts columns this year will describe vacation spots we have seen to encourage readers to explore this fantastic country.

The TV news said it was broadcasting from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories “We were there,’’ said my partner, “I wonder if they’re going to Bullock’s Bistro?’’

The incident reminded us of a great summer holiday we had 21 years ago.

We arrived in the Territories at Hay River after viewing awesome Alexandria waterfalls. Supper was the best war wonton soup I’ve ever tasted.

Someone had asked us if The Zoo was still open, but warned us not to go in. We found The Zoo, an unsavoury looking bar in a less than savoury part of town.

On the “road’’ to Yellowknife bison encircled the young calves as we drove

OPINION EDITORIAL:

TRADING THOUGHTS

By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

by. The last 80 miles along Great Slave Lake were rugged with detours.

Our first evening in Yellowknife we drove out to the island where we spotted a rundown log cabin with a COKE sign on the screen door. “Place must have gone broke,’’ I remarked.

A few days later we got directions to the famous Bullock’s Bistro. This eatery was located in the rundown cabin.

Bullock’s has names written all over the interior walls by visitors.

Our first meal there was a combo — whitefish, Arctic char and caribou medallions. Superb!

We dined on the deck watching float planes and the Snowbirds from 15 Wing practise.

It was for us the most expensive meal we had ever had — over $50. We remarked about the reaction if our parents knew the cost.

At night the sun was still bright at 1

a.m. By two you could just make out an image across the street.

An evening “boat ride” on Great Slave Lake was a must. The “boat’’ turned out to be a bunch of barrels linked with cable and covered by planking.

My partner, who is scared of water bodies, found a chair in the middle of the platform and sat on it, arms folded, teeth gritting.

Her anxiety level soared when we learned the lake was a thousand feet deep.

A photo taken at 11 p.m. showed the bright sun still in the 11 o’clock position.

My partner thought the people living in houseboats were nuts, especially the one with a Saskatchewan flag.

Our stay involved a tour of the legislative building and seeing gifts from other provinces for a special occasion.

Most gave artworks. Saskatchewan donated an armchair.

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

One day we visited the Village of Fort Resolution, saw no people and drove past the closed Pine Point lead zinc mine site. Only sign of the mine was a small plaque.

Intrigued by the story of the endangered whooping cranes we drove into Wood Buffalo National Park toward Fort MacKay. Warnings on the radio told us of the fire danger. About half an hour later we saw smoke and flames ahead, and turned back, just getting out of the park as it closed for safety.

The road back was a two day drive through northern Alberta and Edmonton.

We’ve often talked about returning to the scenic spot with such friendly people.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

SCRAPS to celebrate Mother’s Day with ‘purr-fect’ raffle fundraiser Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

This Mother’s Day, the Stray Cat Rescue and Protection Society (SCRAPS) is honouring the nurturing spirit of mothers — both human and feline — with a heartfelt raffle fundraiser supporting its vital work in the community.

The draw will take place at the SCRAPS 9-Lives Boutique on Saturday, May 10, with proceeds directly benefiting the non-profit organization.

“We’re basically just recognizing and celebrating moms, and all the people who nurture us,” said Anne Marciszyn, a long-time SCRAPS Moose Jaw volunteer. “We’re also thinking about the animal moms out there who are dedicated as well to nurturing and caring for their little babies.”

Launching just in time for the spring kitten season, SCRAPS Moose Jaw has curated a gift collection valued at over $1,000 to raise funds for its trap-neuterrelease (TNR) program that helps manage and care for community cat populations in the city.

The raffle includes a wide range of donated items from generous local businesses, such as a handcrafted quilt from an anonymous donor valued at $450, a “Coffee with Cats” basket, a Celtic Heart gift collection, With Intent candle, and a spa package from Sahara Spa.

“It’s going to be a quick draw for a wonderful item to hopefully win for mom or somebody special who cares for us,” she said.

With the arrival of kitten season, Marciszyn said the need for TNR support is urgent.

“There just isn’t enough homes for all of (the cats and kittens), and it doesn’t matter how hard we try,” she said. “The main goal is just reducing population so that the ones who are there have a better chance of a better life.”

SCRAPS Moose Jaw is using the event not only to fundraise, but also to educate the public about the importance of spaying and neutering pets. It’s a message the organization continually promotes as part of its broader mission to improve the welfare of stray and feral cats.

“We like to always stress our thanks to the community,” Marciszyn said, noting that SCRAPS Moose Jaw’s graphic designer Christine helped create posters

for the event and the Moose Jaw Express donated a portion of the cost to print materials for the non-profit. “Again, (I want to extend) a huge thank you to all our supporters who donate to our organization… and (who) support us with a lot of the events that we do and help us with… our mission. “(I would also like to add) the very important message to spay and neuter your pets,” she added.

Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at several participating locations, including SCRAPS’ 9-Lives Boutique, Pet Valu, DDK Pets, Vintage Vixen Hair Studio at 15 Wing Moose Jaw, and the Excalipurr Cat Café in Regina.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit “Scraps — MJ” on Facebook, call 306-684-9048, or email Scraps-MJ@hotmail.com.

The SCRAPS 9-Lives Boutique is located in the Town ‘N’ Country Mall at 1235 Main Street North.

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PAGE A8 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. MAY 12.

Attending conference in L.A. a joy for some Catholic educators Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

pre-kindergarten teacher at Sacred Heart School.

Busta, Unger and Muench spoke about the trip during the recent board meeting.

“We had a wonderful time,” said Busta, who thought this year’s theme was the best of the four congresses she’s attended, while one quote that stuck with her was, “Compassion is the language of God.” Busta’s favourite speaker was ValLimar Jansen, a contemporary Christian musician, public speaker and professor who spoke in Moose Jaw in 2022. Jansen’s session was titled “Thrive Together: Building Compassion in the Workplace.”

Some ideas the division chaplain absorbed included the importance of recognizing suffering, having the desire to alleviate suffering and distinguishing between empathy and compassion. With a chuckle, the division chapPublic Notice lain said she Notice of Call for Nominations for the Subdivision of Moose Jaw (1 vacancy) will be advertised by the Returning Officer for the City took six pages of Moose Jaw. Nomination forms and Candidate Packages may be of notes during obtained from the City of Moose Jaw, City Hall Main Floor Lobby, Jansen’s talk.

228 Main St. North, Moose Jaw or online at www.htcsd.ca.

Another speaker Busta Nomination forms are to received in person or by mail at 445 enjoyed was 13th Avenue North East; Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan; S6H 6B9, OR by email at elections@htcsd.ca OR by fax at (306) 692-2238. Sister Kathleen Bryant, a Nomination forms will be received by the Returning Officer on May 7, straight-talking 2025 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and during regular business hours woman who — from April 23, 2025 to May 6, 2025. among other Regular hours for Holy Trinity Catholic School Division are: 8:00 a.m. things — said to 4:30 p.m. fear causes people to build All candidates will be required to provide a Criminal Record Check walls around that is completed after December 1, 2024. themselves It is the Candidate’s responsibility to ensure that their Nomination since they fear Paper has been received by the Returning Officer. being truly vulApril 16, 2025 nerable with others.

Curt Van Parys, Returning Officer This was Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Separate School Division No. 22

Several Catholic educators experienced a life-changing trip recently after they attended an international conference that focused on building up the faith through presentations from inspirational speakers.

Three employees with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division attended the 58th annual Los Angeles Religious Education Congress (LA Congress).

The conference is the largest gathering of Catholics in the United States, with roughly 40,000 people attending.

The theme this year was “Called to Compassion.”

The group that attended included Gillian Muench, vice-principal at Vanier Collegiate, Jelienne Unger, a teacher from All Saints in Swift Current, Lisa Busta, division chaplain, Derek Hassen, board trustee, and Amanda Hassen,

From left are Gillian Muench, vice-principal at Vanier Collegiate in Moose Jaw, Derek Hassen, Holy Trinity board trustee, Amanda Hassen, pre-kindergarten teacher at Sacred Heart School, Jelienne Unger, kindergarten teacher at All Saints Catholic School in Swift Current, and Lisa Busta division chaplain. Photo courtesy Lisa Busta

Unger’s first LA Congress and she was unsure what to expect but enjoyed attending daily Mass and Morning Prayer.

Moreover, she rarely sees religious brothers and sisters in Swift Current, but thought it was great to see many of them at the conference displaying their dedication to God. “This (was) just an amazing sight.

My mind was blown,” she remarked. “I never thought the Catholic world could be so big and active.”

Unger enjoyed Fr. Leo Patalinghug, an internet speaker, who reminded attendees that it’s important to share a meal as a family unit, while schools could apply this idea by having potlucks.

Furthermore, she enjoyed seeing Catholic book sellers and thought it would be great to have school book fairs tailored to their faith, while she thought the many exhibitors were similar to missionaries since they helped encourage attendees’ faith journeys.

Unger also learned that ministry is not just about numbers but about forming true disciples of Jesus Christ, since deeply committed people have a greater effect than a large, unformed crowd. “… it was just so encouraging to be around the same people of faith,” she added.

Said trustee Hassen, “It’s unlike

anything you’ve ever experienced. I don’t know how you would attend this conference and not get something valuable from it.”

Muench said she left feeling like the conference had connected to her soul.

Moreover, she enjoyed seeing other attendees living their Catholic faith without shame or embarrassment.

One speaker Muench enjoyed was YouTube sensation Rhyan (Bro Rhy) Ramirez. Ramirez said ministry is a presence — showing up every day spiritually, emotionally and relationally — and not just an action, which builds trust and the ability to transform students’ lives. “‘If we can just reach one, maybe that one will be the one that reaches the millions,’” Muench said in quoting the YouTuber, noting high school students would connect with Ramirez instantly.

Muench also enjoyed Dr. Julia Sandusky, who discussed talking to teens about sex. Specifically, the psychologist said the language parents use matters and there should be a shift from silence to one of open dialogue using Catholic teaching.

“Sexuality is a framework as a gift from God. It’s meant for love, for unity and marriage, for openness to life,” she said. “It’s not taboo and it’s not biological. We have to lead this healthy stewardship and conversation.”

The vice-principal said this talk was relevant since she has two young children, which means —based on Sandusky’s advice — she should lay a foundation now and provide messages that align with Catholic teaching. This is important since she heard “staggering” statistics about how early kids are exposed to sex and pornography, especially through technology.

“It was very, very powerful to me and something I can help other parents navigate too … ,” Muench added. “(Overall, the conference) was incredible (and) it was very moving.”

The next Holy Trinity board meeting is Monday, May 12.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. MAY 12.

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division has released more information about the upcoming byelection in June, while it will soon start accepting nomination papers from interested individuals.

The division has created a web page called “Byelection 2025” on its website under the “Board” tab at the top with information about the call for nominations, the nomination form, the criminal record check that candidates must fill out, a form with criteria about who can run and

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A9

Moose Jaw’s Catholic school division releases info about byelection Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

background about the school division, the candidate profile and stats about the organization.

These forms can be found at www. htcsd.ca, by emailing elections@htcsd. ca, by contacting the division’s returning officer, Curt Van Parys, at 306-694-5333 or curt.vanparys@htcsd.ca, or from city hall’s main floor lobby.

The position open for nomination is one trustee chair in the Moose Jaw subdivision. This spot was formerly occupied

by Christine Boyczuk, a long-serving board member and dedicated literacy and education supporter who died unexpectedly in February.

The City of Moose Jaw’s returning officer will soon advertise the notice of call for nominations for the subdivision of Moose Jaw. City hall and the Holy Trinity board office will start accepting nomination papers from Wednesday, April 23, until 4 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, while the byelection will occur

on Wednesday, June 11.

City council agreed during its April meeting to support the byelection by appointing Dawn Lugrin and Chelsey Domes as associate returning officers to help the school division conduct the vote.

The byelection’s estimated cost is $35,000, and while the city clerk’s office will manage expenses, Holy Trinity will repay all costs to Moose Jaw and the city will incur no expenses.

New interactive TVs helping Catholic students learn their ABCs Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division continues to upgrade technology throughout its classrooms, including replacing expensive touch boards with interactive televisions to ensure children learn how to print their ABCs. The organization is completing the fourth year of a four-year technology lease, so most devices are now on a sustainable and predictable replacement cycle, Mark Selinger, superintendent of learning and technology, told the board during its April meeting.

Holy Trinity is also replacing onequarter — or 340 — of its Chromebooks per year, while the remaining laptops belong to Vanier Collegiate’s one-toone program, Mark Selinger, superintendent of learning and technology said.

The division has been updating classroom technology since September, including upgrading HDMI connections, which has increased connection reliability and facilitated the mobility of teachers so they can connect their tablets anywhere in the room, Selinger said.

Also, roughly one-quarter of employees received new laptops, while every teacher’s iPad was updated to the latest model as part of the lease program.

Selinger pointed out that the division is replacing its classroom SMART projectors/touch boards with interactive

AppleTVs, with the final replacements happening this year. So far, it has installed 26 interactive touch TVs in kindergarten-to-Grade 3 rooms. “(Interactive touch TVs are) just a more cost-effective technology. We found that Smartboards were very expensive and not as frequently used for the touch capabilities as the cost might warrant,” he said.

The division’s educational technology facilitator is also training K-toGrade 3 teachers to help acquaint them with the TVs’ functionality, the superintendent added.

Holy Trinity is “very fortunate … to have a small but mighty” two-man IT team and doesn’t take them for granted, said Selinger. It’s difficult to keep professionals in-house to troubleshoot problems, so having two of them means they can keep the necessary, everyday technology running and seek support from third-party providers when necessary.

The division is being proactive with its cybersecurity and deployed a new platform last August, with software installed on all systems to monitor the network around-the-clock for suspicious behaviour and mitigate threats, he continued.

Furthermore, Holy Trinity has an independent contractor perform vulnerability audits on its computer systems

every two years to ensure the security of the network and data is safe, with the next audit is in 2027, the superintendent noted.

Meanwhile, the division filters its Chromebooks’ internet activity, a feature classroom teachers can also use to monitor — and disable — devices and ensure students are on task, said Selinger. Moreover, it filters incoming emails and relies on Microsoft’s top-tier anti-spam and anti-phishing protection for extra filtering.

This filtering has decreased incoming malware and phishing emails, as the division received roughly 3,000 such emails per month in 2023-24, while that dropped to 1,200 per month this year, he continued. These reductions are likely because the organization removed staff

emails from the website, making it harder for automated systems to send malicious emails.

Holy Trinity’s IT department maintains data backups for all critical services and files for several weeks, with multiple daily backups at the division office, Vanier and other off-site locations, he said. It also handles almost 90 security cameras, with most used to monitor schools’ front doors and some to watch parking lots, outdoor areas, hallways and common areas.

The division is also working to ensure technology at Our Lady of Hope Elementary School is ready for the fall, and while some items will be new, other older technology will be repurposed and transferred from St. Mary and Sacred Heart schools, Selinger added.

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PAGE A10 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

A look at the five candidates in the Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan riding Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Five candidates are running to be the member of Parliament for the Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan Constituency, including the incumbent, a two-time challenger and three newcomers.

The candidates include Chey Craik with the People’s Party of Canada, Britt Baumann with the New Democratic Party, Mike Gardiner with the Green Party of Canada, Tabitha Mukamusoni with the Liberal Party of Canada and incumbent Fraser Tolmie with the Conservative Party of Canada.

Chey Craik Craik is a business owner, operator and consultant and understands the importance of communication and customer service.

His career spans nearly 20 years with one of Canada’s largest rail transportation companies, where he advanced from conductor to locomotive engineer to trainmaster, overseeing over 300 employees. This experience prepared him to own and operate a rapidly growing training service company.

With a strong passion for people and a commitment to fixing a broken system, Craik sees politics as a way to make a difference.

Having closely followed politics and parties’ platforms, Craik is confident in the People’s Party of Canada’s vision for the country. He believes it’s important to stand up for personal responsibility, individual freedom, fairness, and respect.

Britt Baumann Baumann is a veteran who served as a finance clerk, while her husband also served for 45 years.

She understands that the increasing costs of housing, groceries, home heating, and daycare have become difficult for working people. She believes the government must implement policies to increase the availability of affordable housing and create programs to support working families.

Baumann has a PhD in public policy and an MA in sociology. She worked as a policy analyst and focused on policy solutions involving resource development and First Nations land manage-

The map of the Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan riding. Photo courtesy Elections Canada

ment.

The NDP candidate is also passionate about increasing the availability of affordable housing, disability rights, and conserving Saskatchewan’s farmland and water.

Mike Gardiner Gardiner — who ran unsuccessfully in the October 2024 provincial election — is passionate about environmental sustainability and conservation.

He has been in Moose Jaw for 18 years and lives with his spouse and two children, while he has been a social worker for more than a decade and is

completing a degree in social work.

Gardiner supports Universal Basic Income (UBI), is dedicated to decolonization, supports reconciliation, wants more transparency and accountability in government, supports taxing the wealthiest 10 per cent of citizens and corporations, believes in equal rights, supports restoring natural grasslands and wetlands, and collaborating with other parties.

Tabitha Mukamusoni Mukamusoni worked as a journalist in Burundi in East Africa but fled to Canada in 2016 after receiving death threats.

She says her life has been marked by courage, resilience and a deep commitment to giving a voice to the voiceless.

She lived in Gravelbourg and became the director of the community’s French radio station and of the Association communautaire fransaskoise de Gravelbourg (ACFG). These efforts ensured the Francophone community had a platform to be heard.

Mukamusoni’s work with ACFG helped foster connections and support new immigrants to integrate and find services.

In this election, she is focused on creating jobs, supporting families and small businesses, building a prosperous future for all and working with Liberal Leader Mark Carney to strengthen the middle class, support rural development and foster a beneficial economy.

Fraser Tolmie Tolmie served as a Moose Jaw city councillor from 2009 to 2012, as mayor from 2016 to 2021, and became MP of the Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan Constituency in 2021, where he served as the deputy shadow minister for veterans’ affairs and sat on the House of Commons Veterans Affairs Committee.

Riding demographics and history The Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan riding has 83,319 people, is 39,409 square kilometres in size, has an average age of 43, has an average income of $54,300, and has a voter turnout of roughly 69 per cent, according to Elections Canada.

Furthermore, most people in the riding — 77,940 constituents — speak English, while roughly 265 speak French and about 25 speak an Aboriginal language. Other languages spoken include German (760 people) and “other” with 2,285 people.

The constituency was created in 2012, legally defined in 2013 and came into effect in. Meanwhile, Elections Canada enlarged the riding’s boundaries in 2022, where it expanded further west and contracted slightly in the north.

The federal election is on Monday, April 28.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A11

Conservative candidate working toward second term as Moose Jaw-area MP Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Conservative candidate Fraser Tolmie on the trail again trying to earn constituents’ votes as the PC MP. A bigger constituency The constituency is 41,290 square kilometres (15,940 square miles) in size, which is bigger than Switzerland. Moreover, the riding expanded geographically to include parts of the Swift CurrentGrasslands-Kindersley constituency, so the PC team has had to educate those new voters about who their Conservative candidate is.

The main issue The top election issue in the MPs

mind is the cost-of-living crisis that Canadians have experienced during the past 10 years under a Liberal and Liberal-NDP coalition government.

The CPC went after the Liberals for their carbon tax policy, which the latter claimed benefited 80 per cent of Canadians. The Liberals eventually cancelled the policy — “they flip-flopped” — but not before imposing major costs on Canadians.

Besides supporting veterans, including the constituency’s two military bases, the incumbent MP also supported farmers since they feel ignored — and

many times, attacked — by Ottawa. The Liberals’ edict that farmers must reduce their fertilizer use by 30 per cent using European-style farming practices. It

was noted that that doesn’t work in Saskatchewan, while the edict ignores the fact that Canadian farmers know their soil and its moisture content and already implement best practices to maximize their crops.

First-term reflections Tolmie was first elected MP during the September 2021 federal election and, within six months, was involved in helping choose a new leader — Pierre Polievre — for the Conservative Party.

Visit moosejawconservative.ca or Facebook for more information about Fraser Tolmie’s campaign.

Green Party’s Gardiner campaigns on advocacy, equity, and environmental justice Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Green Party candidate for Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan isn’t just campaigning to win votes — he’s campaigning to amplify voices he believes mainstream parties often overlook.

“I want to be a voice for Indigenous peoples (and)… minorities; I want to bring up things like human rights that are being challenged…,” said Mike Gardiner, a social worker and student who said his candidacy is more about advocacy than electoral victory.

“I’m running so I can use the platform to… be a voice for people who aren’t usually heard in these kinds of elections.”

Gardiner, who resides in Moose Jaw, said he’s focused on raising awareness of human rights, environmental protection, and social justice — topics he said are often sidelined during election cycles dominated by economic promises.

“Most people are focused on… what tax breaks they can get, or what supports they can get — and most of us are middle class…,” he said. “I’m focused on what we are going to do for people who are struggling the most, and they’re largely being ignored, I find.”

Gardiner is a strong advocate for small businesses and local economies, viewing them as key to building a healthy, sustainable future. He supports redirecting corporate tax revenue to help small businesses offer living wages,

Mike Gardiner is the Green Party candidate for Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan in the upcoming federal election, scheduled for Monday, April 28. Photo by: Mike Gardiner/ Submitted

remain competitive, and achieve longterm stability.

He promotes cooperative ownership models where employees hold a stake in their workplace, which he believes fosters greater motivation and local investment. His vision draws inspiration from mid-20th-century economic models where higher corporate taxes helped build strong public infrastructure and local prosperity.

At the core of his platform is the belief that many societal challenges stem from unmet basic needs. Drawing on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, he argues that when essentials like food, housing, and security go unfulfilled, it contributes

to widespread issues like mental health struggles, addiction, and crime.

To address this, he supports a universal basic income, suggesting that billions currently spent on fossil fuel subsidies could instead fund a program ensuring all Canadians can meet their basic needs.

The Green Party’s environmental platform still plays a key role in his message.

“We actually rely on the environment to live,” Gardiner noted. He emphasized the vital role of pollinators, pointing to a conservative estimate stating that around 300 species go extinct each year, and urged people to shift their

mindset about nature. He said the environment is often seen as something to control or use, rather than something to live in harmony with — contrasting with Indigenous teachings that he advocates for.

Gardiner views “common sense” not as a universal truth, but as a product of early childhood experiences shaped by parental beliefs and limited exposure to the world. He argues that these worldviews often become rigid by around the age of six, making it hard to understand diverse perspectives.

His message is a call to refocus on community, empathy, and collective well-being. Quoting a line from a documentary, “We used to live in a society; now we live in an economy,” he urges a shift away from self-interest and profitdriven thinking towards a more compassionate, community-centered approach.

His vision challenges people to think critically, care more deeply about one another, and reimagine systems that prioritize connection, with inspiration from marginalized communities, science, and evolving social norms.

Gardiner invites residents to reach out at GardinerForHope@gmail.com.

For more information, visit GreenParty. ca or find “Mike Gardiner” on Facebook, “gardiner.for.hope” on Instagram, or “gardinerforhope” on BlueSky. The upcoming federal election is scheduled for Monday, April 28.

PAGE A12 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

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Liberal Party candidate Tabitha Mukamusoni running for Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Liberal Party candidate Tabitha Mukamusoni is bringing her experience in community leadership and media to the federal election race as one of five candidates in Moose Jaw-Lake CentreLanigan this month.

Personal background Mukamusoni has lived in Saskatchewan since 2016, where she is based in Gravelbourg with her family. Originally from Burundi, she worked as a journalist and later moved to Canada, where she continues her work in community me-

dia. Mukamusoni has four children and has been active in local organizations aimed at promoting education and family well-being.

Her career began as a correspondent for Voice of America, specifically Voice of America in East Africa, until forced to seek refuge in 2015.

She currently serves as the director of both Radio CFRG-FM, a Frenchlanguage radio station operating at 93.1 FM in the Gravelbourg area, and the Association communautaire fransaskoise

Moose Jaw–Lake Centre–Lanigan

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Tabitha Mukamusoni is the Liberal Party candidate for Moose Jaw-Lake CentreLanigan in the 2025 federal election. Photo by: Tabitha Mukamusoni/Facebook

de Gravelbourg (ACFG), where she has been involved in training broadcasters and helping newcomers adapt to rural life.

According to her official website, her recent work is focused on building inclusive spaces and increasing access to community resources, particularly in smaller towns and francophone communities.

Platform highlights Mukamusoni could not be reached for an interview ahead of this week’s Moose Jaw Express press deadline.

According to her official Liberal Party website, Mukamusoni is emphasizing policies aimed at boosting rural economies and supporting middle-class families. Her platform includes investments in job creation, small business development, and infrastructure tailored to rural Saskatchewan. She supports building 500,000 homes per year across Canada to address housing needs, providing financial assistance to low-income seniors, delivering tax cuts for 22 million Canadians, and strengthening Canada’s

armed forces.

Mukamusoni has also expressed support for expanding health care access and affordable childcare options, aligning with national Liberal Party policies.

She said these measures are essential to keeping families in smaller communities and ensuring that they thrive. She backs the national Liberal plan for $10-a-day childcare, calling it a crucial step toward improving affordability and supporting working parents.

She has called for action on climate change that considers the specific needs of agricultural communities, including support for farmers transitioning to more sustainable practices. Her platform includes enhancing programs like AgriStability with an investment of $3 to $6 million, implementing protections against tariffs such as those introduced by the Trump administration, and ending the federal consumer carbon tax.

Mukamusoni is running alongside Conservative incumbent Fraser Tolmie, Britt Baumann (NDP), Chey Craik (PPC), and Mike Gardiner (Green). She is expected to speak at the All Candidates Forum hosted by the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce at the Grant Hall Hotel from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22.

For more information on Mukamusoni’s campaign, including further policy details and volunteer opportunities, visit TabithaMukamusoni.Liberal.ca.

To learn more about the Liberal Party of Canada and its platform, visit Liberal.ca.

The federal election is scheduled for Monday, April 28.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A13

Reflective Moments

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.

Where oh where have the politicians gone?

As the federal election campaign edges its way to the Big Day on April 28, there has been something missing from the campaign — again.

Door-knocking by candidates seems to be a forgotten part of setting the stage for voters to make their choice through personal contact — or even through a brochure left in a mailbox.

Perhaps political parties know what they are doing by ignoring the door-todoor style of campaigning. And certainly some householders would rather not be bothered or don’t have the time to be glad-handed by politicians who only come out to play when an election draws near.

I would appreciate having my day interrupted by the ringing of the door bell to find an aspiring prime minister standing on the doorstep ready and able to answer any questions I might have.

I mentioned my feeling of being ignored to Housemate one day as we drove by a few campaign signs on various high traffic areas.

As we pulled into our driveway, I noticed one of those door-knob brochures sticking out of the mailbox. It was a joyous moment to think that at least one of the candidates had been on the doorstep and had left a calling card behind.

It was a definite disappointment to discover the advertising material did not ask for our vote, but rather wanted us to paint our house. While this business is to be congratulated for having the gumption to ring those door bells, it was not the visitation we had anticipated.

And so the days went by and no one came to visit (except the newspaper delivery persons) and the drivers who drop off parcels but forget to ring the bell.

Then I heard the front bell ring. I glanced out the window to see which candidate had come calling. It wasn’t anyone I recognized. And the man and woman didn’t appear to be wearing party buttons or have identifiable brochures in their hands.

The bell sounded again, and still I hesitated. They didn’t look political, according to my version of how one looks political. Then there was a pounding on the door and I decided that I would not answer that salutation of rudeness.

Eventually the couple put something in the mailbox and meandered up the block.

As soon as it was safe, I opened the door and plucked a folded piece of paper from the mailbox. It was an invitation to engage in a religious conversation at a local church, with no obligation to join the congregation. Snacks were to be pro-

Since

“Locally Owned & Operated” 2008

Phone: 306.694.1322 Fax: 888.241.5291 468 High St. W., Moose Jaw SK S6H 1T3 www.mjvexpress.com

Publisher: Robert Ritchie - rob@mjvexpress.com Editor: Joan Ritchie -joan@moosejawexpress.com Sales: Wanda Hallborg - mjexpress7@sasktel.net David Klatt - david@moosejawexpress.com Kevin Ogle - kevin@saskpromo.com Thank you to all the contributing writers, without your time and support, the paper would not look the same.

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vided.

And so, here it is, only a few days before voting day and candidates have been as scarce as hen’s teeth. I wonder if it is only this riding where door knocking is not part of elections, or is it universal, a trend of the times?

It appears my choice of candidate

will be determined by means other than personal, on-the-door-step contact. Pity.

Meanwhile, I hope the painters gained some customers and the church had enough snacks to keep their visitors happy.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

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PAGE A14 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Ecole Palliser Heights School looking for financial support to help complete the build of an inclusive playground Ecole Palliser Heights School Community Council (SCC) is asking for businesses and anyone interested to help financially with a project to build an inclusive playground that will benefit not only the school but also the wider community. The goal is to raise $125,000 to help create a space where children of all abilities can play and interact with each other. Ecole Palliser Heights school community has already raised about $100,000 and are looking for corporate sponsors to help them complete this project.

“We believe that an inclusive play-

PRAIRIE SOUTH SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT PSSD BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, MAY 13

Prairie South School Division has been deficit-budgeting for several years and using reserves to cover that overage, but one trustee wants to cap those deficits since they are becoming unsustainable.

Trustee Shawn Davidson introduced a motion during the board’s April meeting requesting that once division administration knows how much grant funding the province would provide for next year, it prepare a budget with a deficit no greater than $2 million.

“We have been deficit budgeting for a number of years and we’ve been fortunate to have the means to be able to do so to maintain programming around our school division … ,” he said.

A recent financial report showed that the division is facing a deficit this year of $2.4 million, which is lower than the initial projection of $3.5 million and better than the $4.5 million deficit last year, Davidson continued.

“We have to, in a very controlled manner, be cautious about how much we draw down our reserves,” he stated, pointing out that the budget this year for instruction (teachers’ salaries) is $69 million, nearly $5 million more than last year.

“So this board has made a very significant investment in the classroom (and) it shows in the supports that are

Submitted ground is an important addition to our donors’ generous contributions on a doschool and community,” said Kristin nation wall, recognizing different levels McKee, Ecole Palliser Heights SCC of support: “Friends of Ecole Palliser Chair. “It will provide children with Heights” ($250-$499), Bronze ($500physical and social opportunities to $999), Silver ($1000-$1999), Gold grow, learn, and have fun. It will also ($2000-$5000), and Platinum ($5000 allow families with children of different and above). Please note that charitable abilities to come together and enjoy out- receipts are available for all donations.” door play.

If you are interested in support“To achieve our goal, we are seek- ing this cause, please do not hesitate to ing donations from local businesses. contact our SCC Chair, Kristin McKee Any contribution, no matter how small, (mckee_kristin@hotmail.com) or Ecole will go a long way in helping us cre- Palliser Heights at 306-693-4669.

“We would be more than happy to ate a safe, fun, and inclusive space for children. We will proudly display our answer any questions you may have,”

said McKee. “We also accept donations online at SchoolCashOnline.com: Fee Details, select the “fund destination” as Palliser Heights School, then in the message box write “funds for the inclusive playground at Palliser Heights School.”

Thank you for your consideration.

We hope that you will be able to support this effort to create an inclusive playground for our community.

Sincerely, Kristin McKee Ecole Palliser Heights SCC Chair

Prairie South trustee wants next year’s budget deficit capped at $2M Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

available in Prairie South,” Davidson said. “I (also) think we’ve done a very good job of putting students first … .”

The trustee added that capping the deficit for next year should allow the board to continue supporting students without facing a budget that escalates in a long-term, unsustainable manner.

Trustee Lew Young questioned the deficit cap’s upper limit and wondered if the board would have the opportunity to adjust it based on the data that administration provided.

In reply, Davidson said the $2 million was a “hard top-end cap,” while trustees would have to make another motion if they wanted to exceed that amount.

The board then voted 9-1 to approve the motion, with Young opposed.

Second-quarter update Ron Purdy, superintendent of finance, presented a second-quarter forecast and budget update during the meeting.

As of Feb. 28, the division’s operating revenues were $2.3 million more than budgeted, based on more funding for areas such as preventative maintenance and renewal (PMR) of school buildings, higher enrolment, nutrition and social services activities and extra early learning spaces.

Meanwhile, operating expenses were $1.3 million over budget, as more than half was dedicated to PMR projects, the report said.

Furthermore, the division projects expense areas like instruction to be over budget by $100,000 and external over budget by $497,000 because of associate schools, concession costs and driver’s education.

Purdy said the division has changed how it reports capital funding for the new school to ensure budget documents are more accurate, as it moved $1.89 million in road construction revenues to expenses. Moreover, it will report other capital funding income as separate expense items.

Meanwhile, some remaining uncertainties this year included higher CPP and EI contributions for the new teachers’ contract, unfunded wage grid increases for teachers, the carbon tax, and equipment, supplies, trips and professional development, the report said.

Overall, the division expects to finish the year with a deficit of $2.39 million, compared to the budgeted $3.4 million, while it plans to cover that hole through reserves and amortization, the document added. Also, the projected cash drawdown this year is $728,610 less because revenues are higher than

expenses.

Trustee Patrick Boyle said the “one glaring thing” in the budget was the carbon tax, considering the division could see full-year savings of roughly $600,000 if it disappeared. Moreover, he pointed out that its elimination would reduce the expected cash drawdown to $128,610. “… We’re almost at balance budget without that (tax),” he added.

Tenders Prairie South issued $480,248 worth of tenders between March 1 and 31, including: • $69,000 to Duncan Roofing to replace King George School’s roof • $14,319 to Cattan for Google Chrome OS licences • $183,394 to Gen X to upgrade computers and notebooks • $10,370 to Grand and Toy for charging carts • $5,245 to Konica Minolta for computer monitors • $86,064 to PC Corp for new Chromebooks • $52,817 to Staples Professional for 11th generation iPads • $59,309 to Madera Playscapes/Blue Imp for the supply and installation of playground equipment at Prince Arthur School

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A15

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Regent Law office to merge with major Alberta company Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Regent Law has been a well-known legal firm in Moose Jaw for nearly a decade, but it will soon merge with an Alberta firm that wants to strengthen its presence in Saskatchewan.

Stringam Law LLP announced on April 8 that Talon Regent would be joining the company effective Thursday, May 1, a move the company said would reinforce its commitment to delivering premium legal services across Western Canada.

“For years, Talon has been a trusted pillar of the legal community in Moose Jaw, known for his dedication to client service and his innovative approach to the practice of law,” said CEO Kurt E. Schlachter.

“We are honoured to have his talented team join Stringam Law, bringing their experience, expertise and strong client relationships into our growing firm.”

Schlachter expressed excitement about the merger since it helped the company advance its growth vision for Saskatchewan — it also has an office in Swift Current — and allowed the firm to provide an enhanced service while maintaining a personalized approach to services.

Stringam Law will operate from Regent Law’s office at 414-310 Main Street North and ensure a seamless transition with uninterrupted services, the CEO added.

Regent told the Moose Jaw Express/ MooseJawToday.com that Stringam’s vice-president contacted him about joining the Alberta firm, after the latter learned from a friend in Moose Jaw that he should speak with the young lawyer if the firm were serious about expanding.

Talon Regent owns Regent Law, a firm that will soon merge with a major Alberta company. Photo courtesy Stringam Law

The VP conducted more research about Regent by speaking with other people who knew him, and once satisfied, phoned the community lawyer with the offer.

“And so by the time I got a phone call, they were already very intrigued and very interested in me,” Regent said.

Other larger firms have contacted Regent about acquiring his operations, but he was never interested in their business models, while their respective visions never aligned, he continued. However, he knew joining Stringam “would be a really good fit” after speaking with the VP. Regent pointed out that both firms are technologically savvy and interested in using research and development to continue expanding their capabilities.

“That’s part of the reason they wanted to work with me, is because I’m

one of those rare techy lawyers and will cant change” to join Stringam, while it’s be able to help transition their entire firm “pretty tough” knowing that the Regent Law sign must come down, said Regent. into the 21st century,” he said.

Regent added that Stringam’s IT He noted that he built up the firm over department is thrilled that he is joining the past eight years, so he feels like he’s since he can use his knowledge to con- giving up a part of himself to join a largvince the other partners to adopt the new er whole.

“I definitely experienced some anxtechnology while explaining its benefits iety and hesitation knowing that I was “in legalese” terms.

Stringam Law invited Regent to going to lose control of my own future, a partners’ meeting in Texas recently, knowing that I was going to have to give where he met 15 equity partners also up some of the decision-making power joining the firm. The lawyer noted that of my own business,” he continued.

However, after travelling to Texas, the visit helped him build relationships with the company since his only contact he became “totally sold” that Stringam Law is a great team to join since their had been with the board.

Regent will be Stringam’s sole law- visions align, while he didn’t expect any yer in Moose Jaw, but he hopes to hire major disagreements to occur.

Regent added that he will still own one or two associates this year. Meanwhile, he is joining a team that has 50 Regent Law/Stringam Law and expects lawyers and more than 200 support staff, the quality of his service and dedication people he hopes to leverage to continue to Moose Jaw will only improve. growing his practice.

Another aspect of the company that Regent appreciates is how young the TAXES & SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING staff is. He pointed out that the average age of most firms is around 65 to 70, but it’s 33 in Stringam. He said he’ll likely feel right at home since that’s his age.

Regent started his career in 2016 after joining Terrence Ocrane at Ocrane Law Office, where he served as an associate before becoming a partner.

Ocrane died unexpectedly while on vacation, leaving Regent as the sole practitioner of the firm — which he 19 Athabasca St. W renamed to Regent Law. It’s a “rather signifi-

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PAGE A16 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Fifth Avenue NW makes CAA’s worst roads list

By MooseJawToday.com staff

Week 2 of CAA Saskatchewan’s Worst Roads Campaign 2025 has just concluded, and so far, only one of Moose Jaw’s roads has made the list.

As of April 15, The Friendly City’s Fifth Avenue Northwest was on the infamous lineup for the first time, sitting in seventh place because of its potholes.

Sitting in first place is Highway 5 near Buchanan in east-central Saskatchewan because of poor road maintenance, followed by Highway 4 near Dorintosh in second because of potholes and Highway 339 near Avonlea in third because of potholes.

This week, Angel Blair, CAA’s Worst Roads roving reporter, took a journey along Highway 22 where road users from the communities of Markinch and Cupar have identified problems like giant potholes as safety concerns.

“Year after year, potholes and crumbling pavement remain as the top issues in our campaign. Several factors can cause deterioration of our roads — every-

thing from weather conditions, age of the roads, heavy traffic, and lack of maintenance,” Blair said.

“In cold climates like Saskatchewan, the freezethaw cycle plays a significant role in creating potholes — a problem that occurs when temperatures regularly go above and below the freezing point,” she continued.

When rain or snow seeps through cracks and openings in the pavement, it freezes and expands, causing the pavement to heave upward, Blair added. Then, as temperatures rise, the ground underneath the pavement returns to its normal level, leaving a cavity or hole that breaks apart with continued use of vehicles driving over the fractured pavement.

Road users who want to draw attention to roads that they feel are unsafe should vote for CAA’s Worst Roads Campaign by visiting caaworstroads.com, selecting a municipal or provincial road and a specific segment or section, and voting for it.

Nominate and vote for roads that have potholes,

poor road maintenance, poor road signs or road markings, unpaved roads, traffic congestion, no or poor cycling infrastructure, or poor transit infrastructure, the organization says.

The CAA 2025 Top 10 Worst Roads will be announced on April 30. A grand prize of a $1,000 Shell Gift Card, courtesy of CAA Saskatchewan, will be awarded to one winner selected through a random draw from all eligible votes.

The winner’s name will be drawn on April 30.

CAA Worst Roads is an online engagement campaign aimed at drawing attention to the province’s worst, most unsafe roads. The top 10 worst roads for 2025 will be shared with key stakeholders, government, and business leaders in hopes of sparking conversation and action.

For more information, visit caask.ca/worstroads.

Province bridge rebuild project underway Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

The Highway 1 overpass bridge will look much different in two years, as the familiar cloverleaf will disappear and the structure itself will be raised to accommodate oversized loads.

The $33.7 million, provincially funded project will demolish the existing pair of Highway 2/Main Street North bridges — they are nearly 60 years old — that are 4.5 metres in height. Contractors will then raise the bridges’ height to 5.3 metres.

Furthermore, the existing cloverleaf-shaped onand off-ramps will be replaced with modern diamondshaped on- and off-ramps, similar to the Regina Bypass network.

A Ministry of Highways contractor should have begun demolishing the northbound bridge earlier this month. The contractor is expected to move more than 130,000 cubic metres of earth, equivalent to 35 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

During construction this year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the southbound bridge while contractors build the new northbound bridge. Next year, Highway 2 will have two-way traffic on the new northbound bridge while contractors build the new southbound bridge.

Meanwhile, Highway 1 will be reduced to twoway traffic, while traffic from the exit ramps will be detoured as needed.

The ministry held a news conference at its shop on the North Service Road at the end of March to announce the project, with more than 40 people — local politicians, city council, city administration, RM of Moose Jaw, Moose Jaw Police Service, Chamber of Commerce, and other provincial groups — in attendance.

A poster shows the current cloverleaf design of the Highway 2/Main Street North overpass (in grey) and the proposed diamond-shaped changes (in red). Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Mayor James Murdock said he was “ecstatic” about this project.

“This is a momentous day, and this basically is all about safety for individuals,” he continued. “Some may say that this is long … overdue, but we’re very appreciative for the support we’re getting from the provincial government in making this commitment.”

The community is usually abuzz after a semi-truck hits the overpass because these incidents have occurred “again (and) again and again” for decades, the mayor said. So, he hoped this project would put those concerns to rest permanently.

Raising the bridges’ height will provide the trucking industry with more peace of mind since truckers

“are the lifeline” of the economy, Murdock added.

A project “of this magnitude” cannot be completed in one year because of several factors, said MLA David Marit, the minister of highways. Those factors include changing the area’s design, moving almost 130,000 cubic metres of earth, raising the bridges and paving the roads after construction before frost hits.

“So obviously the biggest concern we have is public safety and making sure that everybody respects the zone and reduces speed,” he stated.

The cloverleafs are disappearing because businesses on the North Service Road prevent contractors from making the loops bigger, the minister noted. Removing the loops will make the area safer, while the trucking industry appreciates the diamond shape better.

This new design will make the bridge infrastructure over Highway 1 more consistent across Saskatchewan and Canada, Marit continued, while he agreed that this project brought the transportation system “to a whole new level” since it improved the economic flow of goods.

The minister added that this project may delay the ministry’s efforts to address the intersection at Ninth Avenue Northwest and Highway 1, since it would wait for this initiative to conclude before rolling out any changes to that area.

George Henderson, the director of operations and member services with the Saskatchewan Trucking Association, said this project was a “critical improvement” that would enhance safety for the 1,000 truckers who use this “key transportation corridor” daily.

Henderson added that this improvement would help reduce provincial trade barriers and potentially counteract tariffs from the United States.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A17

Fred Penner to Streetheart: River Street Promotions unveils first acts for Homestand ‘25 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The stage is set for another unforgettable night of music and community spirit as River Street Promotions (RSP) unveiled the dynamic first wave lineup for Homestand ’25 on the afternoon of April 17.

The fifth annual charity concert is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, when the historic Ross Wells Park will once again be transformed into Moose Jaw’s largest outdoor music venue.

Laurie Kosior-Pappenfoot with RSP delivered the announcement under cloudy skies at the venue.

“After the unprecedented success of Homestand ’24, we look forward to creating another epic day of music and celebration,” she said. “We are excited to work to pack the park and make this the most successful Homestand yet.”

Kicking off the 2025 lineup is Saskatoon’s own The Steadies, returning to the Homestand stage by popular demand after a standout performance last year. Beloved children’s entertainer Fred Penner will follow, bringing his iconic singalongs to fans of all ages.

Next up, acclaimed frontier-rock trio Elliott Brood, who were nominated for the Polaris Prize and a Juno Award, will take the stage with their gritty, rootsdriven sound.

Classic rock powerhouse Streetheart

Representatives from River Street Promotions, both school divisions, and supporting organizations gather at Ross Wells Park to kick off the countdown to Homestand ’25 on April 17.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

rounds out the announced acts, promising a set packed with hit music and high energy.

“With the classic sound of Streetheart, the rousing country of Elliott Brood, and the thrill of Fred Penner, we feel that we are creating an event that literally has something for everyone,” Kosior-Pappenfoot said.

One further act remains under wraps — for now. Kosior-Pappenfoot confirmed that the headliner will be announced around mid-July, encouraging fans to stay tuned for more details.

The annual Homestand concert is a community-driven music festival organized by River Street Promotions. The group is a volunteer-led non-profit dedi-

cated to promoting wellness through entertainment. Since its inception in 2021, Homestand has raised over $500,000 in support of youth wellness initiatives in the Prairie South and Holy Trinity school divisions.

Proceeds are distributed between the RSP Mental Health Wellness Fund benefiting both school divisions and Ross Wells Park, where funds are used to assist with the continued beautification of the historic venue.

By combining live music with meaningful fundraising, Homestand fosters a strong sense of community spirit while addressing critical youth mental health needs.

Homestand ’25 would not be pos-

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sible without the support of key sponsors, including title sponsor K+S Potash Canada, now backing the event for the fifth consecutive year.

Other returning sponsors include Taylor Automotive Group, Moose Jaw Toyota, and HK Henderson Insurance.

Local education partners, including the Prairie South School Division and Holy Trinity Catholic School Division, were also recognized for their ongoing collaboration.

Special thanks were extended to Charlie Meacher for his longstanding support at Ross Wells Park, and to “the hundreds of volunteers who help run the event each year.”

To learn more about River Street Promotions, visit RiverStreetPromotions.com or find “River Street Promotions” on Facebook.

Tickets for Homestand ’25 go on sale starting at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, and will be available at the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture box office at 217 Main Street North. For more information, call 306-693-4700 or visit MooseJawCulture.ca.

Ross Wells Park is located at the intersection of Caribou Street East and Ross Crescent.

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PAGE A18 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, APRIL 28

Some city councillors are excited by the latest data showing that Moose Jaw’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions fell in 2024, especially since those reductions led to financial savings.

Dean Clarke, president/CEO of Greenwave Innovations, and Erik DeRosier, engineer and energy management advisor, spoke during city council’s recent executive committee meeting about both organizations’ efforts last year to reduce GHG emissions in Moose Jaw. According to a council report, by the end of 2024, the city — using Greenwave’s technology — reduced its emissions by 11.2 per cent over the 2019 baseline.

Greenwave has attempted to interest the public in the city’s emissions-reduction efforts not with dollars

Financial savings from GHG emission reductions excite council Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

and cents but by showing real-time numbers on digital dashboard TVs in 10 city-owned buildings, Clarke said.

“The City of Moose Jaw is the only Canadian municipality collecting this data and displaying it minute by minute, so it’s an accomplishment to showcase this,” he remarked.

For example, if people visited the Temple Gardens Centre — formerly the Events Centre — recently, they may have seen data showing that the building was using 475 kilowatts (kW) of electricity, 19 cubic metres of natural gas per minute and 109 litres of water per minute, a slide from Clarke’s presentation showed.

Furthermore, during the past 30 days, the building used 458 kWs of electricity, while solar panels generated 109.5 kWs of electricity over three Sale by Tender days, data that venue staff can monitor in The Village of Mortlach offers for sale the following Tax Title property: real time.

Moreover, in every building, employLegal Description: Lots 4 & 35 Block 17 Plan L1566 ees can monitor equipment in real time and Civic Address: 115 Rose Street potentially predict when items need to be All tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Property replaced before they fail, Clarke said.

Tender” addressed to: Overall, since 2019, Greenwave’s technology has eliminated 3,905 tonnes of Village of Mortlach carbon dioxide equivalent (C02e), equal to Box 10 Mortlach, SK S0H 3E0

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2,611 households’ annual electricity use, Clarke’s presentation said, while monitoring devices reduced the loss of water in city-owned buildings by 5,557,007 litres or 2.2 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

Clarke also showed data comparing SaskPower’s projected GHG emissions reduction numbers up to 2030 to those of the federal government’s, pointing out that “discrepancies” exist between both parties’ reported and projected electrical consumption intensity targets since Ottawa’s projections are different than SaskPower’s by 233 C02e per kilowatt hour.

“We hope SaskPower is meeting their goals and targets. (However), we decided to use the federal government’s national inventory numbers, which are slightly higher, which puts us a little behind track for our 2025 goals (by 28 per cent),” he added.

“So … we will do some more investigating to see why those numbers are trending away from each other.”

Coun. Patrick Boyle pointed to Greenwave’s electrical utility analysis report, which showed that since 2022, Moose Jaw had saved $554,190 in expenses. He said that this data was “the real value” of what council wanted from this initiative since it provided significant savings.

“So we’re trending in the right direction NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT ROLL with savings,” he remarked, adding he appreciRURAL MUNICIPALITY OF CHAPLIN NO.164 ated hearing how Greenwave was developing the ability to identify natural gas leaks in real Notice is hereby given that the assessments for the R. time and potentially shut down those valves to M. of Chaplin No. 164 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the prevent leakage into adjacent rooms. assessor from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the following Coun. Chris Warren inquired about whether days: Moose Jaw would see financial rebates from its solar panels and whether the city could store that Monday to Thursday, April 24 to June 25th, 2025. electricity for its consumption.

Clarke replied that the city would receive A Bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities a credit on its bills from the solar panels, while Act has been passed and assessment notices have been sent as required. the energy must be used and cannot be stored, although that could happen during an expansion Any person who desires to object to the assessment of of renewable technology and growth in the provhimself/herself must, within 60 days after the date of the ince’s smart grid. publication of this notice in the Moose Jaw Express, Coun. Jamey Logan said this data allows lodge his/her complaint in writing with the Administrator council and administration to prioritize their of the municipality. capital projects and decide what to do in the future using performance-based maintenance stratEach assessment being appealed must be accompanied by a $25.00 appeal fee. egies.

“Seeing all this, I’m hopeful that it’s going Dated at Chaplin, Saskatchewan, this 24th day of April , to return our ($1.364 million) investment to us,” 2025. he added.

The next executive committee meeting is Quentin Wiebe Monday, April 28.

Assessor

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, APRIL 28

The City of Moose Jaw’s efforts to cut its greenhouse gas emissions appear to be working, as last year it reduced its emissions by over 10 per cent and eliminated water waste.

The city’s climate action plan aims to reduce corporate GHG emissions by 20 per cent by 2025 and by 45 per cent by 2030 compared to 2019 baseline levels and eliminate 100 per cent of water loss within all municipal buildings.

According to a recent city council report, by the end of 2024, the city had reduced its GHG emissions by 11.2 per cent over the baseline, mainly due to conservation measures, capital efficiency upgrades and continued integration of energy sub-monitoring equipment.

Specifically, the reduction included 8.2 per cent from electrical emissions through efforts such as recommissioning equipment, installing solar panels and pursuing low-cost and no-cost efficiency measures, and three per cent from natural gas emissions through efforts such as equipment upgrades, improved scheduling and consumption monitoring.

“This progress moves the city closer to its 2025 target of a 20-per-cent re-

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A19

Green tech helped city cut GHG emissions by over 10% in 2024 Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

duction,” the report said.

SaskPower’s carbon intensity affects the city’s emission reduction efforts, since the former’s electricity emissions increased by 2.8 per cent between 2019 and 2025, the report continued.

However, the municipality expects further improvements as the Crown corporation works toward achieving net-zero by 2050.

Furthermore, federal projections estimate a reduction of SaskPower’s carbon intensity of 8.2 per cent in 2025, which could positively affect Moose Jaw’s future reductions and help it achieve its targets, the document added.

Meanwhile, contractor Greenwave Innovations completed installing electrical sub-monitoring systems in 11 cityowned buildings that produce 48 per cent of all city emissions, with those devices providing 550 unique monitoring points that capture minute-by-minute data, the report said.

In 2024, these devices reduced the city’s electricity consumption by 496,339 kilowatt hours (kWh), or 1.72 per cent, resulting in savings of more than $55,000, the document noted. Also,

the city saved $255,798 on its SaskPower utility bills, a reduction last year of 14.1 per cent on expenses and an overall reduction of 3.4 per cent compared to baseline.

Furthermore, solar panels at the Yara Centre, city hall and Temple Gardens Centre generated 297,609 kWh last year, contributing to an emissions reduction of 1.02 per cent, while LED retrofits and HVAC scheduling changes provided additional savings, the report said.

Meanwhile, Greenwave finished installing natural gas monitoring devices in October 2024, with that technology supporting leak detection, recommissioning and electrification analysis, the report said.

Also, Greenwave upgraded and integrated 12 water monitoring meters, which resolved 12 leaks and resulted in a 12.2-per-cent reduction in water losses from baseline, the report added. These devices helped the city achieve zero water waste across the 10 targeted buildings and avoid wasting 5.1 million litres of water — two Olympic-size swimming pools — for savings of $8,019.

The 11 digital dashboard TVs that the contractor installed are now live at city hall, the Kinsmen Sportsplex, PlaMor Palace and Yara Centre and display the city’s real-time progress on reducing GHG emissions at those venues and overall conservation efforts, the document said.

Greenwave updates the visuals through its “Greensense” platform, while the platforms promote city and third-party programs and events and allow businesses to purchase digital advertising, which provides extra revenue for the municipality, the report noted.

Meanwhile, city hall is now in the final year of a four-year, $1.364 million agreement with Greenwave Innovations, said the report.

This includes $930,000 in capital funding for the equipment and installation and $434,000 in operating funding for consulting services.

The report added that with the agreement nearing completion, city administration plans to negotiate a new contract this year and would bring a report to council outlining extension options.

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PAGE A20 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Thank You To All Our Administrative Professionals all your dedication and hard work throughout the year especially to Heather & Darby

Thank you to our Administrative Professionals CJ, Susan, Carolyn, Krista, Mona & Sarah for all your hard work, dedication and making everyday fun at the office.

Derek & Daphne 324 Main St N 306-694-4747

DAWN, MALYSHA & JANELLE

We appreciate all the work you do!

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Thank you to our Administrative Professionals Kristi, Brandi, Jen, Chelsea & Pier Thanks for your dedication & hard work while making it fun.

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A21

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PAGE A22 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Chamber announces 2025 MJBEX award winners at glitzy banquet Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

It was a glitzy night at the Temple Gardens Centre on April 16 as the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of the Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards (MJBEX).

The 23rd annual MJBEX awards night was sponsored by WOW Factor Media and provided community businesses with the means to celebrate their achievements, recognize their contributions to the community, and provided a way to build credibility and business exposure in the community.

Representatives from CAE Military Aviation Training and sponsor JGL Group gather for a picture after the military company won the Business Innovation Award.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Representatives of M&T Feedlot Ltd. and sponsor Farm Credit Canada gather for a picture after the ag company won the Agricultural and Agri-business Excellence Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

2025 MJBEX recipients • Agricultural and Agri-business Excellence Award: The winner is M&T Feedlot Ltd. • Business Innovation Award: The winner is CAE Military Aviation Training (CMAT) • Community Involvement Award: The winner is The Mad Greek Eatery • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award: The winner is Tim Hortons Moose Jaw

Members of Southern Meats Ltd. and sponsor ScotiaBank gather for a picture after the butcher shop won the “Hell Yeah” Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Members of Canadian Wool Pellets and sponsor SaskTel gather for a picture after the company won the New Business Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Kolter Mealing with The Blue Line Hockey Shop and a representative from sponsor Community Futures South Central pose for a picture after Mealing won the Young Entrepreneur Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

• “Hell Yeah” Award: The winner is Southern Meats Ltd. • Impact Award: The winner is Hunger in Moose Jaw • Marketing Award: The winner is Jillian’s Design Elements • New Business Award: The winner is Canadian Wool Pellets • Pillar of the Community Award: The winner is HK Henderson • Service Excellence Award: The

Members of Hunger in Moose Jaw and sponsor Blue Whale Financial Solutions Inc. gather for a picture after the non-profit won the Impact Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Members of Jillian’s Design Elements and sponsor Simpson Seeds Inc. gather for a picture after the jewelry business won the Marketing Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

winner is McCauley Agencies • Young Entrepreneur Award: The winner is Kolter Mealing with The Blue Line Hockey Shop • People’s Choice Award: The winner is Kolter Mealing with The Blue Line Hockey Shop • Business Leader of the Year Award: The winner is Christine Boyczuk • Business of the Year Award: The winner is HK Henderson The Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com will have complete cover of the event in other articles.

Reps with Tim Hortons Moose Jaw gather for a picture after winning the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Representatives with The Mad Greek Eatery and sponsors W.J. Jones & Sons Funeral Home and Crematorium gather for a picture after the restaurant won the Community Involvement Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Members of McCauley Agencies and sponsor the City of Moose Jaw gather for a picture after the business won the Service Excellence Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A23

Chamber announces 2025 MJBEX award winners at glitzy banquet, con’t Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Kolter Mealing with The Blue Line Hockey Shop (middle) and representatives from sponsor Rosie’s on River Street gather for a picture after he winning the People’s Choice Award.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Members of HK Henderson and sponsor Moose Jaw Co-op Association gather for a picture after the insurance company won the Pillar of the Community Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Members of the Boyczuk family, sponsor HK Henderson and the Chamber of Commerce gather for a picture after Christine Boyczuk was named the Business Leader of the Year Award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Staff of HK Henderson and a rep from Saskatchewan Polytechnic gather for a picture after the insurance company won the Business of the Year award.

Photo by Jason G. Antonio

HK Henderson pres. speechless after winning MJBEX’s Business of the Year award Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Businessman Dave Reidy was almost speechless after learning that his company had been named the Business of the Year during the Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards.

“Crazy. Wasn’t expecting this … wasn’t really prepared. It’s awesome,” the president/CEO of HK Henderson said after he and his team took the stage at the Temple Gardens Centre on April 16 to receive the accolade.

“Our team here in Moose Jaw, we’re growing and expanding … our footprint in Moose Jaw,” he added. “And we’re really honoured to be awarded with this and … I’m speechless.”

Reidy — whose company also won the Pillar of the Community Award — told media afterward that many great businesses in the community were equally deserving of the award, so to be singled out was special.

Besides The Friendly City, HK Henderson — which formed in 2023 af-

Dave Reidy, president of HK Henderson, accepts the 2025 MJBEX Business of the Year award. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

ter the merger of Henderson Insurance, Hoffman Kool Insurance and Life Line

Brokers — also does business in Saskatoon and Regina, with five offices across the province.

HK’s focus has been on the agriculture, transportation, and manufacturing industries, along with commercial construction insurance and contract surety bonding.

The merger in 2023 followed another one that occurred in 2021, when Henderson Insurance joined with Smiths’ Insurance and HAL Insurance.

The business is thrilled to operate in Moose Jaw since it’s “a very unique place,” Reidy said. Moose Jaw is special since residents pull together for various causes, whether to support charities, businesses, events or during crises.

“Our team is phenomenal. They truly believe in our values. They believe in what we stand for, which is customer service,” he added. “And if we didn’t have clients (who) support us every day then we wouldn’t exist.”

HK Henderson/Henderson Insur-

ance has been in business in Moose Jaw since 1913, while the company came into the Reidy family in 1965 after Dave’s father, Frank, bought it. Then, in 1997, Dave’s two brothers and a cousin purchased the business from their parents and have been in charge ever since.

Reidy himself has been with the company for 27 years and has been the president for 20 years, and during those three decades, says the biggest change he’s seen in the industry is with technology.

Technology has changed not only how HK Henderson works but also how clients work and how fast businesses communicate with each other, he pointed out.

“One of the things that’s always there, though, that’s a staple all the way back to when my dad owned the business and then all the way through, is the people,” Reidy added. “People helping people. And that’s really what we’re all about.”

PAGE A24 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

MJBEX award-winner Christine Boyczuk gets two standing ovations Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

People who attended this year’s Moose Jaw Business Excellence Awards (MJBEX) banquet gave two standing ovations to the late Christine Boyczuk, who posthumously received the Business Leader of the Year Award.

The first ovation during the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce’s April 17 event came after board president Michael Biette read a detailed biography of the deceased community volunteer and then announced her name.

The second ovation came after Boyczuk’s daughter, Vanessa Cowan and her daughter, Madisan, came on stage to ac-

cept the award.

A visionary “The Business Leader award goes to a visionary. It exemplifies great leadership over a long period of time,” said Biette. “And tonight’s winner certainly … did that. And we’re honoured to award to this person.”

The chamber board president discussed most activities Boyczuk participated in over the decades, such as her time in education, her volunteerism, her support of literacy, her leadership with low-income, housing, seniors-focused and mental-wellness groups, and her Christine Boyczuk-Rensby. Photo submitted

There are numerous benefits of play!

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Free Play stimulates brain development at molecular, cellular, and behavioral levels, promoting neuronal growth and connectivity. Play promotes healthy development and critical thinking skills. It reinforces memory, helps children understand cause and effect, and is the modality in which they explore their world.

Free Play, including rough-and-tumble or outdoor activities, is linked to improved motor skills, cooperation, and emotional regulation. Studies have found that outdoor play correlates with better academic performance and enhanced social skills (Panksepp, 1998; Burghardt, 2005).

Play is instrumental in fostering social skills and emotional resilience.

Through pretend play, such as doctor-patient scenarios, children develop empathy by imagining others’ perspectives. These experiences contribute to better emotional regulation and the ability to manage interpersonal relationships (Singer & Singer, 1990; Russ, 1988).

devotion to St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church and the Catholic Women’s League.

Boyczuk’s “extra-ordinary contributions” landed her many honours, he continued, such as the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002, the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2005, the Moose Jaw Police Service Community Safety Award in 2014, the PRISM Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016, the Moose Jaw Citizen of the Year Award in 2017, the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal in 2019 and the Queen Eliabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.

“Known for her vibrant energy, generous spirit and unwavering commitment to others, she was a true force of positive and purpose,” Biette said.

“Her life was a shining example of what it means to lead with heart, serve with humility and uplift those around her … .

Video tribute A video was shown featuring members from various community groups discussing Boyczuk’s efforts, while pictures of her flashed on screen.

Mary Lee Booth said Boyczuk loved children, as shown by her work in bringing the Dolly Parton Imagination Library program to Moose Jaw. Continuing, Booth said she will especially think about Boyczuk at Christmas since that was the latter’s favourite holiday and went all out in decorating

her home, including with the toilet paper. Booth noted that there were allegedly six truckloads of Christmas decorations the woman transported when she moved to a new home.

Booth added that no one in Moose Jaw gave the amount of time and service to serving people — especially the vulnerable and children — like Boyczuk did.

Service above self Lorne Calvert discussed Boyczuk’s time with the Wakamow Rotary Club, noting she inspired members to support literacy, education, youths in Moose Jaw and Guatemala, and marginalized people.

Calvert added that Boyczuk exemplified the Rotary’s motto of “service above self.”

Passion and energy Wanda Peakman and Kathy Knudson with the Early Years Family Resource Centre (FRC) said Boyczuk was filled with passion and energy and displayed those characteristics daily. Furthermore, she motivated the community to address identified needs and invited others to join her in addressing them.

Boyczuk also acted as a bridge between organizations since she knew so many people, which helped the FRC staff meet others involved in building up the community, said Peakman, adding this award allowed the community to “make a fuss” about her and her work.

Grace and finesse Della Ferguson said she worked with Boyczuk on many committees — such as Square One and Journey to Hope — and appreciated her leadership, mentorship, efforts to treat others equally and desire to be friends with everyone.

Ferguson admired Boyczuk’s “grace and finesse” with facilitating action between community agencies, including bringing together groups during the pandemic to support the community, kick-starting collaboration on the city’s cold weather strategy and supporting mental health awareness.

“I am forever grateful for having known, walked beside and worked with Christine and for calling her my friend,” Ferguson added.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A25

Roots of tomorrow: Canada’s forests need our support Submitted

On April 22 also known as Earth Day, the significance of forests for conservation, community benefits and human health has never been more urgent to acknowledge. Forests play many critical roles for nature and people: they provide habitat for hundreds of species, act as water filters, reduce air pollution, and are places of community connection, recreation and refuge. They regulate temperature and weather patterns and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

However, many pressures, including severe storms and wildfires, invasive alien species and habitat loss, threaten these ecosystems, the benefits they provide and the relationships they support.

When our woodlands are compromised, so too is the quality of the air we breathe and the water we depend on. The wellbeing of every Canadian, from the bustling urban centre to the most remote rural town, is at stake.

Canada’s forests make up nearly one-tenth of the world’s total. We are one of the most forested countries in the world, ranking ahead of the United States and just behind Russia and Bra-

zil. Our country boasts connected, intact forest habitats and significant terrestrial carbon stores. With around 140 native tree species, Canada has a unique role and collective duty to protect these areas.

One-third of the 426 bird species that breed in Canada rely on forests for survival. Canada’s northern forests provide nesting habitat for an abundance of diverse migratory birds that winter in the U.S., Central America and beyond.

From tiny warblers to large swans, it’s estimated that between three and five million birds migrate south from Cana-

da’s boreal forest every fall.

The economic value of our forests is just as vital as their ecological importance. According to the Forest Products Association of Canada (fpac.ca), more than 200,000 Canadians earn their livelihood directly from forestry, sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism, contributing an impressive $87 billion in annual revenue.

Since 1962, the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has championed the cause of forest conservation, safeguarding over 1.6 million hectares of forests — an area more than twice the size of Prince Edward Island. Working in partnership with landowners, corporations, governments and Indigenous Nations, these special places are important for nature and deliver economic, community and health benefits.

Across the country, NCC is putting conservation into action. One inspiring example is Nebo, a property near Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, which offers a place to hike among a remarkable transition zone that bridges boreal forest with prairie grasslands. The geography is

BIZWORLD

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

spectacular; rolling hills end in secluded forest-fringed wetlands, and a small creek meanders through this property.

You may come across NCC’s forest restoration work that began in 2017. More than 32,000 white spruce seedlings have been planted with the generous support of Tree Canada. As you look over the hills, you may spot wildlife such as deer, moose, songbirds and many waterfowl.

Places like Nebo showcase how conservation efforts today are securing the forests — and futures — we all depend on.

The call is clear: safeguarding Canada’s forests means safeguarding ourselves. Our natural resiliency, our economic prosperity and our health require us to do our part. As Canadians, we have both the duty and the privilege to conserve our forests. Let us unite and embrace this challenge with determination and care. Our forests are not just a backdrop to our lives; they are the very essence of our future.

(Lisa McLaughlin is the vice-president of conservation policy & planning with the Nature Conservancy of Canada)

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

About transitioning trade from the U.S.A.

Once the Trump tariff war became evident Canadian political leaders and some business leaders started warning this country it must switch much of its trade from the United States to other more reliable markets.

The politicians talked that way as shifting trade seems most convenient.

Business leaders spoke that way to preserve their operations.

Shifting trade from the U.S.A. by Canada has been tried before and failed.

When Prime Minister John Diefenbaker, 1966-1963 was feuding with America over refusing to allow U.S. nuclear missiles on Canadian soil, he urged Canada to shift 15 per cent of imports from the U.S.A. to the United Kingdom and Europe.

His request came at the same time as the fledgling European Union was courting the U.K. to become the seventh member and offer the EU the clout of the international financial hub of

London.

The United Kingdom feared a trade deal with Canada and other British Commonwealth countries would jeopardize entry into the EU. The UK declined a deal with Canada.

That’s the official story told by the history books.

The real story: joining the EU made much more sense logistically and in added costs.

This was before the days of instant communication by fax machines, cell phones and computers. Communication was slow. Transportation was even slower.

The freight costs alone presented major trade barriers creating a dealbreaker.

Eighty-five years later Canada is looking at the same kind of shift. This time Canada is looking for markets around the globe to reduce dependence on exports to and imports from the U.S.

Trade shifting won’t be easy.

Every other country on the globe impacted by Trump tariffs will also be looking for alternative export/import markets. The international trade field will be competitive as never before.

Global trade competitiveness as in all business eventually boils down to one factor — price. Once various nations start dropping prices to get market share everyone suffers.

Canada sits in an unenviable position in terms of potential major trading partners. Relations with India and China, two of the largest options, are cool and subject to on and off trade barriers.

If this country can’t find new markets or make a deal with the U.S.A. one terrible option suggests massive loss of industry, production capacity and jobs.

Canadians want and deserve their sovereignty but will they be prepared for the sacrifices needed in the next five to 20 years to save sovereignty?

Canadian leaders bravely assert we can develop our own resources and critical mineral industries.

Maybe. China holds a near monopoly on essential rare earth minerals. In the past when North American critical mineral mines have opened, the Chinese dropped prices making the new mines unviable.

Why would investors want to assume that risk again? That scenario will likely happen again.

Developing these resources will require a guarantee by government or private sector to secure returns if China drops the prices.

Canadians may face hard times like they haven’t seen since the 1930s as we transition away from a North American market.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

PAGE A26 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Saskatchewan players and teams well represented in final NHL Central Scouting Draft rankings

Warriors’ Lakovic near top of list of 16 players from Saskatchewan or Saskatchewan-based teams making the final Central Scouting grade Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

A total of seven players from Saskatchewan and a further nine from teams based in province were among those listed when NHL Central Scouting released their final North American rankings earlier this week.

Leading the way, as he has all season, is Saskatoon product and Brandon Wheat Kings standout Roger McQueen, who came in at eighth overall.

The 6-foot-5, 193-pound forward got off to a torrid start when the season opened, putting up eight goals and 11 points in the first eight games of the season. A serious neck injury at the beginning of October would sideline McQueen until early March, but that did little to hurt his Draft standing as the season progressed and he’d finish with 10 goals and 20 points in 17 games.

Based on his ranking, McQueen is all but certain to go mid to late first round.

Odds are he’ll beyour joined Wegood can destroy oldbytaxa documents, bank statements, medical records and team many other types documents.

Moose Jaw of Warriors forward Lynden Lakovic will head into the 2025 NHL Entry Draft player from a Saskatchewan-based as the 14th ranked North American skater, making him a likely first-round pick. Randy in Moose Jaw Warriorsfor forward $20.00 firstLynden 25 lbsPalmer - .75¢ per lb after Lakovic.

PICK UP IN CITY $25.00 per load The West Kelowna, B.C. product top 15 and did nothing but help his cause der injury that cost him a month-and-acame into the campaign ranked in the despite suffering a late-December shoul- half of playing time.

Lakovic ended up at 14th overall after putting up 27 goals and 58 points in 47 games to lead the Warriors in scoring.

His ranking should see him picked in the late first round or early second.

Should things go his way, Macklin’s Cole Reschny could also be selected in the first thanks to his 25th overall ranking, but odds are greater that the Victoria • We can scan and print up to 36” wide Royals centre will be selected in the sec• We can print technical documents, ond round. blueprints, posters, banners, signage, Reschny finished 10th in WHL designs, maps, infographics scoring with 26 goals and 92 points in 62 games and has been even more dangerAND MORE ous in the postseason, where he’s currently fourth in scoring with seven goals

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and 20 points in only eight games Joining McQueen and Reschny as ranked players from Saskatchewan are: 99. Dawson Gerwing (F, Meadow Lake, Swift Current Broncos / Kelowna Rockets) 58 GP 15G 13A 28P 113. Reese Hamilton (D, Regina, Calgary Hitmen / Regina Pats) 59 GP 4G 10A 14P 167. Joby Baumuller (F, Wilcox, Brandon Wheat Kings) 59 GP 18G 16A 34P 190. Kolten Bridgeman (D, Regina, Regina Pats) 63 GP 1G 6A 7P 203. Carsen Adair (D, Lethbridge Hurricanes) 66 GP 2G 7A 9P Joining Lakovic as ranked players from Saskatchewan-based teams are: 39. Peyton Kettles (D, Swift Current Broncos, Winnipeg) 53 GP 5G 9A 14P 51. David Lewandowski (F, Saskatoon Blades, Germany) 52 GP 15G 24A 39P 93. Luke Mistelbacher (F, Swift Current Broncos, Steinbach, Man.) 67 GP 42G 51A 93P 111. Josh McGregor (D, Swift Current Broncos, Brandon) 63 GP 4G 12A 16P 162. Aiden Ziprick (D, Moose Jaw Warriors, Russell, Man.) 68 GP 12G 36A 48P 187. Hayden Harsanyi (F, Medicine Hat Tigers / Saskatoon Blades, Calgary) 37 GP 11G 12A 24P 191. Grayson Burzynski (D, Swift Current Broncos, Winnipeg) 62 GP 11G 36A 47P 213. Connor Schmidt (D, Moose Jaw Warriors, Sturgeon County, Alta.) 62 GP 11G 36A 47P The 2025 National Hockey League Entry Draft will take place over two days at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, with the first round on Friday, June 27 and second round on Saturday, June. 28.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A27 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Seven Moose Jaw Warriors alumni taking ice in Stanley Cup Playoffs McIlrath, Rielly, Hamonic, Point, Howden, Edmundson, Jeannot set to begin quest for NHL championship beginning this weekend Elizabeth Black - Moose Jaw Warriors

Seven Moose Jaw Warriors alumni will be participating in the Stanley Cup Playoffs starting this weekend.

Dylan McIlrath (2008/2009 – 2011/2012) and the Washington Capitals clinched the top spot in the Metropolitan Division and are set to battle against the Montreal Canadiens. This season, the Capitals have a record of 51-21-9 with one game remaining.

McIlrath appeared in 16 games for the Capitals and put up two assists with 26 penalty minutes.

Morgan Rielly (2010/2011 – 2012/2013) and the Toronto Maple Leafs clinched the top spot in the Atlantic Division and will battle against their Ontario rivals, the Ottawa Senators. Through 81 games so far this season, the Maple Leafs have a record of 51-26-4. Rielly has played in all 81 of those games, putting up seven goals and 34 assists for a total of 41 points.

Travis Hamonic (2006/2007 – 2009/2010) and the Ottawa Senators clinched the first wild-card spot in the Eastern Division, leaving them to face the Toronto Maple Leafs in round one.

This is the Senator’s first playoff appearance since the 2016/2017 season.

The Senators have a record of 44-30-7 with one game remaining. Hamonic appeared in 58 games this season and tallied one goal and six assists for a total

Seven former Moose Jaw Warriors will be on the ice when the Stanley Cup playoffs begin this weekend. Moose Jaw Warriors.

of seven points.

Brayden Point (2011/2012 – 2015/2016) and the Tampa Bay Lightning locked up second place in the Atlantic Division and are set to face off against the reigning Stanley Cup Champions, the Florida Panthers. The Lightning have a record of 47-26-8 with one game remaining. Point appeared in 76 games for the Lightning so far this season and notched 42 goals and 40 assists for a total of 82 points. Point also earned a spot on Team Canada at the Four Nations Tournament in February, registering one goal and one assist through four games.

Brett Howden and the Vegas Golden Knights locked up first place in the Pacific Division. They will face the Minnesota Wild in the first round.

The Golden Knights finish the regular season with a record of 50-22-10. Howden appeared in 80 games this season for the Golden Knights, registering 23 goals and 17 assists for a total of 40 points.

Joel Edmundson (2010/2011 – 2012/2013), Tanner Jeannot (2014/2015 – 2017/2018), and the Los Angeles Kings locked up second place in the Pacific Division and are set to face the Edmonton Oilers in the first round.

Through 81 games so far this season, the Kings have a record of 48-24-9.

Jeannot has appeared in 67 games so far, notching seven goals and six assists for a total of 13 points. Edmundson has appeared in 72 games so far and registered six goals and 14 assists for a total of 20 points.

In the AHL, an additional seven Warriors alumni have clinched berths in the Calder Cup Playoffs.

Jett Woo (Abbotsford Canuncks), Dryden Hunt (Calgary Wranglers), Jagger Firkus (Coachella Valley Firebirds), Max Wanner (Providence Bruins), Kale Clague, Nathan Paetsch (Assistant Coach) (Rochester Americans), Ryder Korczak (Syracuse Crunch), and Atley Calvert (Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins) have all punched their playoff tickets.

Daemon Hunt, Zach Sawchenko, and the Cleveland Monsters are holding onto the last playoff spot in the North with two remaining games. Matthew Savoie and the Bakersfield Condors are sitting just outside of a playoff spot in the Pacific Division with two games remaining this weekend.

In the ECHL, Lucas Brenton (Fort Wayne Komets) and Josh Thrower (Kansas City Mavericks) have clinched spots in the Kelly Cup Playoffs.

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PAGE A28 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

South Central District crowns senior badminton champions, regionals up next Central leads way with three representatives off to next step on way to provincials Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

It was a good day for the Central Cyclones badminton team at the recent South Central District Athletic Association championships.

Five members of the team finished in the top two in three divisions and as a result will advance to regionals as the road to provincials continues.

Zen Quimio repeated as champion in the boys division, while the team of Tara Nguyen and Micah Salido-Porter were the gold medalists in mixed doubles and Gabriel Calub and Austin Smith landed second in boys doubles. Exhause Isingoma and Mitiya Benson also had a solid weekend and were bronze medalists in mixed doubles.

Cornerstone Christian School had three familiar faces book their regional berths, as multiple time regional com-

The South Central District girls singles senior badminton champions are Kiana Hrechka (Cornerstone, gold, centre), Gwen Baluyet (Vanier, silver, left) and Ariana Bell (Gravelbourg, bronze, right).

The South Central District boys singles senior badminton champions are Zen Quimio (Central, gold, centre), Hudson Heistad (Avonlea, silver, left) and Carter Hawkins (Mossbank, bronze, right).

petitor Kiana Hrechka won gold in the girls singles class and fellow repeat regional competitors Drew Biette and Tanner Behrns were tops in boys doubles.

Vanier’s Gwen Baluyet earned the

second regional berth in girls singles, while Gravelbourg’s Ariana Bell was third.

Avonlea’s Hudson took second in boys singles and Mossbank’s Carter

The South Central boys doubles senior badminton champions are Drew Biette and Tanner Behrns (Cornerstone, gold, centre), Gabriel Calub and Austin Smith (Central, silver, left), Chase Callaghan and Ryan Duncan (Avonlea, bronze, right).

The South Central District girls doubles senior badminton champions are Avery Krauss and Geneva Brown (Rouleau, gold, centre), Kaydance Ray and Lindy Jolly (Mossbank, silver, left), Tia LeCaine and Katherine Robichaud (Glentworth, bronze, right).

Hawkins won bronze.

Girls doubles saw Avery Krauss and Geneva Brown from Rouleau take top spot, while Mossbank’s Kaydance Ray and Lindy Jolly took the second berth.

Tia LeCaine and Katherine Robichaud finished third.

Avonlea’s Chase Callaghan and Ryan Duncon were third in boys doubles.

Layla Rotheisler and Manny Pagan from Gravelbourg finished second in mixed doubles and will also advance to regionals.

The regional playdown will take place on Saturday, May 3 in Maple Creek, with the top finishers there advancing to provincials in Estevan on May 10.

The South Central mixed doubles senior badminton champions are Tara Nguyen and Micah Salido-Porter (Central, gold, centre), Layla Rotheisler and Manny Pagan (Gravelbourg, silver, left), Exhause Isingoma and Mitiya Benson (Central, bronze, right).

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A29 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Guinness World Record holder Frisbee Rob inspires students in Mortlach Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Students at Mortlach School were treated to an unforgettable experience when Guinness World Record holder Rob (Frisbee Rob) McLeod visited the school, captivating students with his frisbee prowess and motivational messages on April 7.

McLeod, a Calgary-based motivational speaker and frisbee ambassador, holds 13 Guinness World Records, including the farthest flying disk throw caught by a dog at 122.5 metres (402 feet) and the longest time for a flying disk to be aloft before being caught by a dog at 10.59 seconds. He also holds the record for the most drink cans hit with a flying disk in one minute, 28, and the longest time a flying disk is aloft before being caught on ice skates (14.14 seconds).

His visit to Mortlach School was a standalone event aimed at inspiring students through physical activity and personal development.

“Frisbee Rob’s presentation was well received. It was engaging for all

grades,” said Evan Hanson, principal of Mortlach School. “Students are still talking about the event and have been practicing their new skills with frisbees.”

The day began with a school-wide assembly where McLeod emphasized perseverance, learning from failure, and the importance of believing in oneself.

“Frisbee Rob started the day off with an… assembly… and some very cool frisbee tricks,” Hanson said. “Then he spent the day putting on classroom workshops, (with a focus on) building skills.”

McLeod’s interactive workshops taught students a few frisbee skills, all while encouraging them to challenge themselves. The hands-on nature of the workshops allowed students to engage directly with McLeod, fostering a sense of accomplishment and enthusiasm for the sport.

According to Hanson, McLeod’s core message was to “believe in yourself, persevere, and chase your dreams.”

The unforgettable highlight of

McLeod’s assembly was when he nailed a frisbee shot clear across the gym and into a basketball hoop at the opposite end, causing students and teachers alike to erupt in applause. McLeod’s next world record attempt will involve throwing a frisbee the farthest distance into a basketball hoop — but that’s still in the works.

“The students thoroughly enjoyed the day with Frisbee Rob,” Hanson said.

Frisbee Rob’s visit to Mortlach School showcased the school’s dedication to creating enriching opportunities that spark new interests and help students build valuable life skills beyond the classroom.

His visit also aligned with his broader mission to promote physical literacy and mental resilience among youth.

Through his assemblies and workshops,

he aims to inspire students to pursue their passions, embrace challenges, and develop a growth mindset.

McLeod is the co-author of “The Davy Rule,” a children’s book featuring his canine teammate Davy Whippet.

The book teaches lessons on acceptance, kindness, determination, and self-awareness, further reflecting his commitment to youth development.

McLeod’s world records can be found on page five and page 89 of “Guinness World Records 2024,” published by Guinness World Records and available at all major bookstores.

For more information on Rob (Frisbee Rob) McLeod and his outreach initiatives, visit FrisbeeRob.com.

Mortlach School is located at 122 First Avenue in Mortlach and can be reached at 1-306-355-2332.

OPENING SOON

Rob (Frisbee Rob) McLeod (ahead of assembly to the left) demonstrates a new frisbee trick at Mortlach School on April 7. Photo by: Submitted photo

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PAGE A30 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Sask. residents envy other areas when it comes to fish Some Saskatchewan residents are known for their envy of provinces where fish and seafood are readily available.

Despite our location, we make the best of what we are able to purchase and flock to grocery stores that feature sales of various fresh and frozen fish.

A cookbook that recently was added to my collection is solely devoted to fish and seafood recipes and is the source for this week’s recipes.

••• FILLETS-IN-FOIL DINNER 1 lb. block frozen cod or other fish fillets 3 tbsps. butter or margarine, melted 1 tbsp. lemon juice 1/2 tsp. salt 1 tbsp. chopped parsley, optional 2 medium potatoes 3 thin onion slices 1 cup thinly sliced carrots 3 slices processed cheese Partially thaw the fish block then cut into three equal portions.

Combine melted butter, lemon juice, salt and parsley.

Tear off three rectangles of aluminum foil, about 12x16 inches. Crease each through the centre making rectangles 6x8 inches, then unfold.

On one side of each centre crease place 1 tsp. of the butter mixture and then cover with a fish portion.

Slice potatoes into sticks abut 1/4 inch thick.

Place one-third of the sticks around each piece of fish. Top each with an onion slice and 1/3 cup of the carrots. Cover each with a cheese slice.

Pour remaining butter sauce over vegetables, portioning about 1 tbsp. to each pack.

Fold foil over food so the three open edges meet. Close edges with double folds to make sure each package seam is tight.

Place packets on a baking sheet and bake in the oven at 400 degrees F until fish is cooked and vegetables are tender. This will take about 45 minutes for a frozen fish block that is 1/4 inch thick, and less time for a thinner one.

Remove each packet to individual plates.

Cut top open with scissors and fold back foil.

Be careful of the hot steam. Serve with a side salad.

••• FAST FISH CHOWDER 1 pkg. frozen cod or other fillets 2-10 oz. cans cream of potato soup 2 soup cans milk 2 tbsps. chopped chives or green onions with tops butter

Measles

Submitted by Richard Dowson (For educational purposes)

Did You Know – The Morbillivirus, a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, causes Measles.

The Morbillivirus is dangerous. Complications occur in about 10% of cases resulting in serious, long-term health problems including neurological damage.

Morbillivirus is a highly communicable disease. Morbillivirus is easily transmitted to family pets. In dogs Morbillivirus is known as Canine Distemper Virus (Morbillivirus Canis). In cats it is Feline morbillivirus (Morbillivirus Felis) The vaccine that prevents Measles in Humans, prevents Canine Distemper in Dogs.

The Morbillivirus

To ease cutting, partially thaw fillets then cut into chunks about 1 1/2 inches square.

In a deep saucepan, combine soup and milk. Heat to simmering temperature, stirring occasionally. Add fish and chives. Continue to heat below boiling until fish is cooked, about 5-10 minutes.

Serve hot with a pat of butter floating in each bowl. Makes about 7 cups.

••• SCALLOP SALAD 1 lb. scallops 2 tbsps. finely chopped onion 1/2 clove garlic, finely chopped 1/4 cup French dressing 1 1/2 cups diced celery 1/3 cup diced sweet pickles lettuce cups Cook the scallops in gently boiling salted water for five minutes. Make sure the water covers the scallops. Drain, chill and dice.

Combine onion and garlic with French dressing. Pour over scallops and marinate for one hour in refrigerator.

Combine with celery and pickles and gently toss. Serve in individual lettuce cups. Makes 4-5 servings.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A31

Central Collegiate’s Class of ’85 plans 40-year high school reunion Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Former students from Central Collegiate Institute’s Class of 1985 are preparing to turn back the clock this summer as they gather for their 40-year high school reunion.

The three-day event will bring together 40 alumni and 20 spouses from across the country for a weekend of nostalgia, laughter, and reconnection from June 28 to 30.

“We are planning a reunion for the Central Collegiate grad class of 1985,” said Pam Kemps (Taylor), a Central Collegiate alumna and reunion organizer. “It’s (going to be) three days of just getting together and socializing.”

Reunion activities will include a tour of Central Collegiate, a throwback ‘80s night at Dooly’s Billiards & Lounge, intramural games, and even a

few skits. Around eight former teachers and faculty members — all since retired — have also confirmed their attendance.

A meet-and-greet will take place at Wakamow Heights Bed and Breakfast, while Dooly’s will host additional social gatherings and will be opening exclusively for the reunion.

Although the group previously held reunions at the 15- and 25-year marks, they chose to hold the reunion at the 40-year mark rather than waiting for the traditional 50-year milestone. This decision was made considering that time is precious and every opportunity to reconnect matters. With the passing of a few classmates over the years, the group felt it was important to come together sooner rather than later to cel-

A vintage postcard depicts Central Collegiate Institute during its earlier days in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Barbara Parr/Facebook

ebrate friendships and share memories.

“It’s just that life is short, so you better enjoy it and get together. So yeah, we just thought 40 years is a good year, so why not?”

A private Facebook group has been

set up to help coordinate the event. Organizers are asking those interested to search for the group online or contact them directly by email.

The group has been organizing the event for over a year now, and their hope is that the story might help them reconnect with a few remaining classmates they’ve been unable to reach.

“There are a few people that we haven’t been able to contact… about 20,” Kemps said. “We just want them to be aware of it. Maybe they’ve moved, but maybe their parents still live here (and can pass along the news).”

If you’re a graduate from the Class of ’85 and would like more information, reach out to Pam Kemps at Pam. Kemps@AdvisoryIsSolutions.com.

Two Moose Jaw schools advance to provincials after regional drama festival Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw’s talented young performers took centre stage this month as elementary and high school students delivered standout performances during the Saskatchewan Drama Association’s (SDA) Region Two Drama Festival.

The festival, held at A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s Centennial Auditorium from April 3 to 5, featured performances from six schools in the area.

Two Moose Jaw schools win regionals Cornerstone Christian School’s production of “How to Win a One Act Play Competition” earned the runner-up spot, while A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s “Stressed” was awarded Best Overall Production. Both schools will now advance to the Provincial Drama Festival, scheduled to take place at A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s Centennial Auditorium from May 8 to 10.

“It’s a chance for kids to get together and meet other kids across the province, share ideas, attend workshops, and work with professionals in all the different areas of theatre,” said Darlene Briere, executive director of the SDA. “Lifelong friends are formed at this festival, for the kids and for teachers as well,” she added.

The Region Two festival was hosted

by Cornerstone Christian School, with

The cast and crew of A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s production “Stressed” earned top honours at the Saskatchewan Drama Association’s Region Two Drama Festival this month, winning Best Overall Production and advancing to provincials in May. Photo by: A.E. Peacock Collegiate/Facebook

principal and co-director Tanya Johnson serving as the event organizer.

Performances included “The Most Watched, Least Viewed Talk Show in History” by Briercrest Christian Academy from Caronport, “4 A.M.” by Riverview Collegiate, “Forthcoming” by Vanier Collegiate, “Stressed” and “Conflict” by A.E Peacock Collegiate, and “The Hallmarks of Horror” by Central Collegiate.

Adjudicators evaluated each production based on an examination of onstage performance and technical execution during rehearsals.

“We have two adjudicators at each

festival — one for front of house and one for the backstage,” Briere explained.

“They work with the students during technical rehearsals and provide feedback on the actual production.”

These specific scores, as well as the adjudicator’s criteria and any specific feedback is kept confidential to maintain the integrity of the judging process.

Headed to provincials The upcoming SDA Provincial Drama Festival will bring together top productions from nine regions across Saskatchewan. Due to a lottery system, Region Two was granted two spots at provincials this year, allowing both

A.E. Peacock Collegiate, the winner, and Cornerstone Christian School, the runner-up, to compete at the next level.

The other lottery system winners this year include Region Nine (Regina) and Region Eight (North Battleford), who will also send two schools each to the provincial festival.

This year’s provincial festival is dedicated to Ian C. Nelson, a longtime mentor and adjudicator from Saskatoon who died last year.

“Ian was instrumental in the formation of the SDA,” Briere noted. “He supplied us with mentorship for our adjudicators, particularly in the front of house, and we still use his wisdom to pass on to new adjudicators.”

Tickets are exclusively available at the festival site and can be purchased on a cash-only basis, starting on the afternoon of Thursday, May 8.

Admission is $15 per play session, with a festival pass available for $50.

Children under the age of 10 can enter free when accompanied by an adult.

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

For more information, visit SaskDrama.com, call the Regina Beach office at 1-306-525-0151, or email DramaInfo@sasktel.net.

PAGE A32 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

Square One reflects on a successful year, welcomes new leadership at 2024 AGM Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Square One Community Inc. held its annual general meeting at William Milne Place, highlighting a year of progress in supportive housing and community engagement on April 16.

Leadership transitions and board appointments The meeting commenced with the appointment of Della Ferguson as president for a one-year term. Ferguson was previously appointed as secretary.

Bernie Doepker was named vicepresident for a two-year term, replacing Anne-Marie Ursan, while Paul Wilder continues as treasurer in 2025.

The secretary position remains open. New board members Dave Stevenson and James Zick were welcomed for two-year terms, alongside returning member Crystal Lockyer.

Anne-Marie Ursan, outgoing vicepresident and a board member for three years, announced her retirement but will continue contributing as a member at large on the Supportive Housing Committee.

Financial overview Treasurer Paul Wilder presented the financial statements for the 2024 fiscal year, noting that they were independently reviewed by Regina-based MWC Chartered Professional Accountants LLP. Wilder addressed a board member’s question about substantiating certain expenses. During the 2024 fiscal year, Square One adopted the Canadian Accounting Standards for Not-for-Profit Organizations (ASNPO) for the first time, with changes applied retrospec-

tively. This resulted in no changes to net assets, assets, or liabilities.

In the year ending Dec. 31, 2024, Square One saw a revenue of $359,641, including $289,156 from donations, $38,886 from grant revenue, $26,709 from fundraising, and $4,890 from investment earnings. The expense total was $133,931, including $39,659 for food risk relief meals, $37,294 for salaries and benefits, $24,000 for rent, and $11,075 for the point-in-time (PiT) count.

Net assets were $100,575 as of Jan. 1, 2024, and rose to $326,285 on Dec. 31, 2024.

In the year ending Dec. 31, 2024, Square One had a cash flow of $205,938, as compared to $50,319 on Jan. 1, 2024.

Membership approved the financial statements and reappointed MWC Chartered Professional Accountants LLP for the 2025 fiscal year.

Committee reports The President’s Report, submitted

by Mary Lee Booth, outlined the 2024 calendar year.

“When I look back to 2024, I am blown away with all the progress Square One Community has made as an organization,” Booth wrote. “Hats off to all who have worked collaboratively to make this happen!”

Booth said the highlight of 2024 was hiring Maxton Eckstein as special projects co-ordinator. Initially tasked with fulfilling objectives outlined in the 2023 Strategic Plan — including the development of a systems map to identify current services and gaps in services for

Square One welcomed three new board members on April 16. Left to right: Crystal Lockyer, James Zick, and Dave Stevenson. In the background is the newly dedicated Christine Boyczuk Boardroom that formally opened ahead of the meeting. Photo by: Aaron Walker

individuals experiencing housing insecurity — he was promoted to general manager by unanimous vote in October.

Two of the standout milestones for 2024 included the publication of a local documentary, “A Home to Call My Own,” produced in partnership with Square One Community, Willow Lodge staff, and Rogers Communication. Since premiering in November 2024, the documentary has nearly 6,500 YouTube views.

The second milestone was the 2024 PiT count involving more than 50 volunteers in partnership with Community Connections, the My Place program, and Willow Lodge staff. Cathy Fieldgate received a special mention for help coordinating the event and for developing a manual for future PiT counts.

The General Manager Report, submitted by Maxton Eckstein, highlighted several achievements during his first

year with Square One. Eckstein formed a committee with representatives from Square One, Rom Jukes from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Sask. 211, the City of Moose Jaw, and Sask. Polytech to develop a systems map. Once complete, this map will be hosted on Sask. 211 and the City of Moose Jaw website.

He also formed the Moose Jaw Social Housing Advisory Committee with 13 organizations involved in social housing, played a key role in the PiT count, production of “A Home to Call My Own,” sought sustainable funding, and engaged with the public and local government to educate and advocate.

Looking forward Square One’s biggest challenge remains securing sustainable operational funding.

In 2025, the organization will work with Willow Lodge staff to identify individuals who experience long-term stays at the emergency shelter, and looks to enter phase two of its Supportive Housing program to secure housing and wraparound supports for these individuals. Square One also plans to work with a consultant to develop a standardized fundraising strategy.

“Thank you to the many supporters of Square One Community for working alongside with us to ‘make homelessness history,’” Booth concluded.

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

Square One dedicates boardroom in honour of Christine Boyczuk’s legacy of service Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Square One Community Inc. officially unveiled the newly christened Christine Boyczuk Boardroom, honouring the late community leader and co-founding member ahead of its annual general meeting with a formal ribbon-cutting on April 16.

The boardroom dedication recognizes Boyczuk’s enduring legacy of service, compassion, and leadership in Moose Jaw. Boyczuk died on Feb. 10 at the age of 78, leaving behind a profound impact on the community through decades of

volunteerism and advocacy.

“Christine freely shared her wisdom and experience with the board and guided our efforts,” said Anne-Marie Ursan, vice-president of Square One, during the ceremony. “She taught us to proceed with heart and head.”

Ursan highlighted Boyczuk’s embrace of the organization’s wraparound principles — family, faith, and friends — emphasizing her humble guidance and thoughtful decision-making.

The ribbon-cutting was performed continued on next page A33

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A33

Square One dedicates boardroom in honour of Christine Boyczuk’s legacy of service, con’t

by Boyczuk’s daughter Vanessa, granddaughter Maddie, and Square One cofounder Della Ferguson, symbolizing the continuation of her legacy.

Born in Moose Jaw on Dec. 17, 1946, Boyczuk dedicated her life to education and community service. She began her career as a teacher and later served as a reading consultant, superintendent, and director of education. Her commitment extended beyond the classroom, as she held roles such as trustee and vice-chairwoman of the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division’s board of education.

Boyczuk’s community involvement was extensive. She co-founded Square One Community Inc., chaired the Age Friendly Moose Jaw Committee, co-chaired the Community Mental Wellness Committee, and volunteered with organizations including the John Howard Society, Friendly City Optimist Club, Rotary Club, and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce.

“Christine was one of the founding

Della Ferguson (left), Boyczuk’s daughter Vanessa (centre), and Boyczuk’s granddaughter Maddie (right) cut the ribbon to formally open the Christine Boyczuk Boardroom on April 16. Photo by: Aaron Walker

members of Square One Community and we will be forever grateful for the leadership, guidance, and mentorship she displayed while working to build this organization,” said Mary Lee Booth,

president of Square One Community Inc. Her efforts were recognized with numerous awards, including the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in

2002 and the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2005. She was named Moose Jaw’s Citizen of the Year in 2018 and was awarded the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal in 2019.

“Christine led through example and her demonstration of citizenship and service to others,” wrote Mary Lee Booth in her formal dedication to Boyczuk.

“She has left a tremendous legacy in the Moose Jaw community and we will all share in the loss of an exceptional light in this world.”

The newly dedicated boardroom stands as a lasting testament to her unwavering dedication to community, serving as a space where future initiatives will be planned in the spirit of her values and lifelong commitment to service.

The Christine Boyczuk Boardroom is situated in the Square One Community Inc. headquarters at William Milne Place, located at 138 Fairford Street West.

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PAGE A34 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 Daily Sudoku Puzzles by KrazyDad, April 16, 2025

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

1 5 7

2 4

6 9

5 9

3

8 1

2 6

5 2

8 5

1

3 2

7

6 1

© 2025 KrazyDad.com

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.

If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.

-- Dalai Lama

8 7

Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.

ABUSE, ANNOY, BUMP, CELEBRATE, COULD, DRAIN, DREAM ENOUGH, FINGER, FLING, GARDEN, HAIL, HAPPY, HILLSIDE, HITCH, HONEY, INTRICATE, LANDSCAPE, LEARN, MEADOW, MYSTIC OFFICE, POSSESSION, PREY, QUIET, RESIGN, RIDER, SCENE SCROLL, SHOWN, SLEEP, SMALL, SNOWSTORM, SPECIAL

ACROSS 1. Sticking point 5. A food flavoring Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle. 10. Completed Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page14. Vagabond if you really get stuck.

15. Work hard 16. A detested person 17. Deserting 19. Turn on a pivot 20. Mayday 21. Cast out 22. Satan 23. Morally correct 25. Lift 27. Local Area Network 28. Betray 31. Answer 34. 24 sheets of paper 35. Chapter in history 36. L L L L 37. Cunning 38. Facial covering 39. Goat hair fabric 40. Dogs wag these 41. Last 42. Communicated 44. Sheep sound If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.

45. Distort 46. Dawdled 50. An alloy of iron 52. Utilizers 54. Blemish 55. Certain something 56. Corrupt 58. Worry 59. Female ruff 60. Anagram of “Sage” 61. Terminates 62. Aromatic compound 63. Writing styluses DOWN 1. Pursue 2. Android 3. Disconcert 4. Was victorious 5. Advertising catchphrase 6. Committee 7. Nile bird 8. Vapor trails 9. Unit of energy 10. Preoccupy 11. Imitation velvet 12. Decorative case 13. Bobbin

18. Rot 22. Water barrier 24. Misfortunes 26. Unit of land 28. Construct 29. Diva’s solo 30. Formal dance 31. Unit of paper 32. River to the North Sea 33. Blind drunk 34. Relaxations 37. Quips 38. Medicine bottle 40. Follow 41. Untrue 43. Perspires 44. Swap 46. Dig (into) 47. Picture 48. Consumed 49. Clothe 50. Out of harm’s way 51. Zig or zag 53. Tallow source 56. Form of “to be” 57. Strike

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A35

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Sudoku #7 - Tough 5 2 7 8 9 4 6 3 6 4 7 2 1 5 8 9 6 3 5 7 1 8 3 2 1 4 6 9 5 2 7 3 1 6 9 4 1 9 5 8 3 7 2 7 3 5 8 9 4 4 1 8 3 6 7 2 9 5 6 4 1 2 8

7 9

1 6

4

5 3 6

2 8

3 1 8 9 2 4 5 7

Sudoku #5 - Challenging 6 1 5 4 3 2 9 8 7 9 4 2 7 8 3 5 1 6 3 9 6 2 4 8 7 1 5 6 1 4 5 7 8 2 9 3 9 8 2 3 1 6 4 5 7 3 2 5 6 4 9 1 7 8 4 6 7 8 1 5 9 3 2 2 8 1 3 9 6 7 5 4 5 3 9 4 2 7 8 6 1 5

8

1

2 4

6

9 3 7

PAGE A36 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

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.

Silent Letters

For people around the world, English is now becoming one of the most common languages. Every language has its nuances and variants that challenge the learner of a new tongue. English has silent letters in the spelling of many words. You can just about go through the entire 26 letter alphabet and find English making use of a letter that has no perceptible role in the word’s pronunciation. For every rule explaining how a letter is pronounced it seems there are exceptions where the directive does not apply.

The main reason English has so many silent letters is that many words are borrowed. Words borrowed from Latin, Greek, French, and German often retain all or part of their original spelling, even when pronunciation has changed over time.

I give credit to the Merriam-Webster website for the following information.

Why is there an ‘a’ in bread? Since the ‘a’ does nothing, you could spell it bred. However, bred is the past tense of breed, so that probably won’t work. The same issue affects lead, the metallic element. Also, consider head, dead, dread, thread, and spread. And for some reason ‘a’ makes an appearance in aisle and aesthetic.

‘C’ cedes all power to ‘s’ in science, scent, and

scissors. And ‘c’ does not do much of anything in acquire, indict, and muscle. What use is there for ‘c’ in yacht, fascinate, obscene, and disciple.

‘D’ shirks its auditory duties in handkerchief and handsome. The ‘d’ in Wednesday is only there from the derivative of Oden’s Day, the old Norse god. Even though some people pronounce the ‘d’ in grandson, grandmother, sandwich, edge, and ledger, it is supposed to be silent in English.

‘G’ has no business in phlegm, as far as the modern reader is concerned. Also, think of all those ‘gnwords’ like gnarl, gnash, gnat, gnaw, gnostic, and gnu.

What about a ‘g’ in high, though, and through.

Beginning spellers may have a problem with the ‘k’ in knee, knife, knight, knit, knob, knock, knot, know, and knuckle.

The letter ‘l’ is especially troublesome in English pronunciation. The most notorious example can be found in the word colonel, which sounds identical to kernel (I’m not sure where the ‘r’ sound comes from).

‘L’ is also silent in could, should, and would. Also, think of calf and half, chalk, talk and walk, calm, palm and psalm.

‘T’ is not audible in castle, listen, whistle, and ballet. Think of how you pronounce asthma. How often do people mispronounce ‘often,’ sounding the ‘t’?

‘W’ might as well disappear in wrack, wrangle, wrap, wreath, wren, wrench, wrestle, wrinkle, wrist, write, and wrong.

Why is there a ‘w’ in answer, sword, and two.

Many printers who operated early printing presses in England came from the Netherlands and Germany, and because they had control over a language that was, at the time, still not standardized, they added extra letters to have them resemble words from

their home countries.

The other day at the restaurant I was in receipt of a receipt. Silent letters, in any language, can cause confusion and mispronunciations. In the Anglo-French spoken by the Norman conquerors, the word receipt was spelled receite. The spelling eventually changed in English to add a ‘p’ to bring it in line with the Latin recipere (to receive), but the pronunciation stayed the same.

One might say that there are rules to spelling and pronouncing a language except when they do not apply.

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.

We are forever grateful and truly blessed by the outpouring of love, support, food, flowers, hugs, cards, and phone calls from our family, friends, and community during the sudden loss of Tre Blacklaws.

A special thank you to Michelle and staff at the Moose Jaw Funeral Home for their care, companionship and support.

With great appreciation,

The Blacklaws Family

Easter & Spring Blessings from our Families to Yours’.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A37

St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church relocating to former basement chapel at Zion Church Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Moose Jaw’s first Presbyterians arrived by train in 1883, and now St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church is making another move — but it’s not closing its doors.

The congregation will soon gather for worship in a new location, transitioning to a re-established chapel space in the basement of Zion United Church.

The first service in the new location will take place at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, May 11, which is also Mother’s Day. Bev Longmire (Rev.), a longtime member of the congregation, said the move is part of a downsizing effort that will better suit the needs of the smaller, aging congregation.

“Our (former) church (building) could hold 180 people, and on (any given) Sunday we’re at about 25,” she said. “People from our congregation are getting older. A lot of them have moved away or into retirement communities, but they didn’t want to close the church.

What they wanted to do instead is just downsize to a smaller facility.”

Longmire, who jokingly said her retirement role is to “look after this, that, and everything else” at her parish, said she saw an opportunity after learning that Zion United Church was thinking about repurposing an unused basement conference room back into a chapel.

“When I looked at it… and went through the building, I figured, ‘I think this can work,’” she said.

The move is set for Wednesday, April 23. Leading up to that, members of St. Mark’s parish will be removing the original pews from their building — most of which bear the nameplates of past congregants — and repurposing some of them for the new space.

“Eight pews from St. Mark’s are coming over (to Zion United Church).

These are smaller pews, and our pulpit is coming over, and so is our baptismal font and our piano,” Longmire said. “So, when people start to come to the chapel, they’re going to feel comfortable; it will feel like home again.”

The pews are being moved because the building’s new owners, Jesus Is Lord Church — which has 130 members and is led by Pastor Lorlei Morante — prefer chairs.

“(Jesus Is Lord Church) is bringing other spiritual gatherings.

“It’s not just for us; it’s for the comin 200 chairs,” Longmire noted. “But for us, I tried to make the transition as easy munity,” Longmire said. “Weddings and as possible” by bringing some familiar funerals are so expensive these days, and their (Zion Church) rental rates elements to the new location.

CONTACT USUnited TODAY While the chapel is being re-es- are very reasonable.” tablished primarily for the Presbyterian A new congregation, it will also be available for sign for everyone. With a capacity of around 45 the chapel people, the space is ideal for small wed- entrance is dings, baptisms, memorial services, or c u r r e n t l y

being made and will direct visitors to the south-side door near the office. The chapel space is accessible via a short flight of stairs — around six steps — with nearby washroom facilities and an adjacent dining area for events and gatherings.

St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church services will run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Sundays, followed by Zion United Church services from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the same day. The timing is set to ensure both congregations can continue to worship without interruption.

For more information about St. Mark’s Presbyterian Church, visit WordsFromTheMiddle.ca or call 306692-8914.

Jesus Is Lord Church will move into the former building at 80 High Street East on Friday, April 25, with the first Pentecostal service to take place on Sunday, May 4.

To learn more about Jesus Is Lord Church, visit JILCanada.com.

Zion United Church is located at 423 Main Street North. For more information and to inquire about chapel rentals, call the church office at 306-692-3842.

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PAGE A38 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com Spring Brunch and Learn will be held on Saturday April 26th at Hillcrest Church. Pls use north doors.

10am coffee – meet and greet/10:30am brunch by Wakamow Rotary/11:15 Presentation by Food and Water Security Agencies and Wakamow Rotary.

Tickets $20. Email communitysquareone@gmail. com. HEAR FIRSTHAND ABOUT THE WORK OF: Square One Community/Willow Lodge/John Howard Society/My Place Program & Lunches at Zion & St. Andrews/Hope Ministries/St. Aidan Lunches/ Hunger in Moose Jaw…Wakamow Rotary.

Moose Jaw Catholic Women’s League and the Regina Diocesan Catholic Women’s League executive are pleased to invite all women to the Annual Diocesan Convention on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Parish in Moose Jaw. Register by April 18th by contacting the Convention Registrar at regina.diocesan.conv@gmail.com or 306-313-4509.

‘Evening of Music’ fundraiser in support of MJ Christian Counselling Centre (not-for-profit): Please join in on Sunday, May 4th, 2025 at 6:30 pm at the Hillcrest Church located at 1550 Main St. North. Music from: The Eros Family; The Cornerstone Christian School Choir; Dr. V Rininsland; and more! Free to attend--with an opportunity to support in a free-will offering towards helping individuals, couples, teens and children receive professional level counselling. Contact mjccc@shaw.ca with any questions you may have or visit the website at www.mjccc.ca for more information about the Centre. Hope to see you there!”

Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital Auxiliary Used Book & Jigsaw Puzzle Sale will be held in the hospital lobby May 5 until May 16 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will also be a Penny Parade and Raffle. Proceeds will go toward new hospital equipment. Books and puzzles in good shape may be dropped off at the Gift Shop. Thanks for your support.

1975 AE Peacock High School 50th Reunion June 13 &14, 2025 - 1975 AE Peacock 50th Reunion: Alumni and Friends. We are looking for former classmates and friends from 1975, and the years surrounding our time at Peacock High School.

Email our celebration committee for more information, peacock1975reunion@gmail.com. Please include your name and email address.

Lawn Bowling is a sport for all levels of ability. During winter, Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling club invites everyone to try it on the turf at Yara Centre now at @10am - Instruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-630-8160 or visit www. moosejawlawnbowling.com Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: April and May. Call or text 306 756 2819.

The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 7 pm at St Andrews Church until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects.

New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw “The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@hotmail.com The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will resume meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The first meeting will be at 6:30pm, in Lindale School staff room, 1322 11th Avenue NW (north entrance).

Phone 306-693-5705 for information.

Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. Winter 2024 Program on Monday nights from 7-9pm at St. Mary’s School, 720 – 5th Ave. SW. Dance in a square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579.

Beginners, singles or doubles welcome!

Scottish Country Dance Classes for all ages on Thursdays at 7pm at 510 Main St. N (T. Eaton Bldg).

No partner required. Call Val @306.630.5790.

Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month basis to take place on the third Friday of each month Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m.

Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com.

Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well: -Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/ Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/ Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord.

Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.

TOASTMASTERS organization provides communication and leadership skill training that fosters confidence building, personal and professional development in a supportive environment. Moose Jaw is home to 2 clubs: TAP and Big Country.

TAP meets online on Tuesdays@7. TAP club is transitioning to a resource for building environmental awareness.

BIG COUNTRY meets Wednesdays@7 at Saskpolytech & on zoom(hybrid). For information text 306-690-8739 TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am.

Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds.

Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) offers meetings every Wednesday evening too in the Alliance Church located at the corner of 9th Ave NE and Thatcher Dr. Use the West side entrance and you’ll find us down the hall in room 107. Weigh ins are 6:30-7 followed by a half hour meeting. Scale weighs up to 500lbs.

Join us as we support each other on our weight loss journeys. Visit www.tops.org for more information.

Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787. Visit their website at https://www.moosejawlibrary.ca or visit ASK@ MOOSEJAWLIBRARY.CA Some library programs require registration by calling 306-692-8210 or emailing nsetter@moosejawlibrary.ca.

CHILDREN’S PRGRAMMING: DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring daycare providers! Drop-in Program PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring adults! Drop-in Program LITERACY CALENDARS Download April Early Literacy Calendar for infants and pre-school children Download April Children’s Literacy Calendar for elementary-aged children BABY STORYTIME Tuesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 0-2 and their caring adults!

LEGO WEEKENDS! Every Saturday and Sunday during open hours in Children’s Department for ages 4-12. This is a self-guided activity MAKER SATURDAYS April 26 @2pm in Children’s

Room/HT Room for ages 8-12. Registration required April 26: LEGO Spike Prime.

MINECRAFT ON HOOPLA Build your next adventure! The Minecraft movie is out April 4th! Join a community of creative builders and explore the world of Minecraft with this collection of books, comics, music, and more on Hoopla.

YOUTH PROGRAMMING: TEEN D&D: BUGBEAR COVE Group A Tuesdays, until May 27 at 6:30 pm/ Group B Thursdays, until May 29 at 6:30 pm for ages 12-16. Registration required TEEN SPECIAL PROGRAM Wednesday, April 30 @6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19.

Registration required Project: Paper Flower Picture Frames TEEN ANIME+ CLUB Wednesday, April 23 @6:30 pm in the MJPL Theatre for ages 12-1.9 Drop-in program Movie: I May be a Guild Receptionist, but I’ll Solo ANY BOSS to Clock Out on Time (PG) ADULT PROGRAMMING: DOCUMENTARY NIGHT Thursday, April 24 @6pm in the MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program Movie: Anselm MJPL MOVIE CLUB Monday, April 28 @6pm in the MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program. Movie: A Different Man TECH TIME Available by appointment during open hours in Main Library for adults by appointment only - please call the library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.

MAGIC THE GATHERING Saturdays, April 26 @2pm in the Reading Room for ages 13+. Drop-in program .

CHESS CLUB AT MJPL Sundays, April 27 from 1-4pm in Reading Room for all ages. Drop-in program NATURAL LANDSCAPING, BEES & SEED EXCHANGE Saturday, April 26 pm from 1-3pm in the MJPL Theatre for all ages. Guest Speakers: Naomi Hunter & Wild from 1-About Moose Jaw The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453 Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59 BINGO – Monday @ 6pm CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open MonThurs 8am – 8pm.

Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open MThurs 8am-8pm and on Fri 8am-4pm Wood working area – Mon- Fri 8am – 4pm Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cinnamon Buns on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day.

Everyone is welcomed.

Billiards daily 8a.m. – 4p.m.; Monday & Thursday evenings 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 9a.m/Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m./Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m./ Weds pickleball @5pm Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Tuesdays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.; Whist – Tuesday @ 9:30am; Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.; Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm; 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m; Spades – Tuesday and Fridays 1pm ON HOLD Full Body work out – Monday’s 10am Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

Intro to Line Dancing – Wednesday’s @ 11am Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays

@ 1 p.m.

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Circle Dancing – Thursday 2:15pm Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm New to the Centre is BINGO every Monday at 1:30pm Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net. Check them out on Facebook.

Monday: Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am/ Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 3:45 Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking - 11:30am/Art Drop In - 1:00pm/Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pm-Regular Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball - 9:30am and Pickleball - 1:00pm Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre AGM will be held on April 17th at 1pm.

1:00 pm. All proposed motions must be presented to the office administrator, 48 hours prior to the annual meeting, so they can be available in the meeting package.

Detour Dance and Cabaret, May 3, 7:30pm 11:00pm, Advanced tickets $20, Door $25.

Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net Open Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to closing.

Closed on Sundays and stat holidays.

Hiring part time bartenders. Please drop your resume off at 279 High St. W. Every Saturday Meat Draws. Draws start at 4:30 pm with 10 meat draws, gift cards and 50/50.

Everyone is welcome.

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395 EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles.

Partners draw from those attending to play.

FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm DROP IN DARTS - Every Wednesday evening and continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, draw for partners, starts at 7:00 pm.

DROP IN CRIBBAGE - Every Monday evening and continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, registration between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm – play starts at 7:00 pm.

Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025 • PAGE A39

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Province now accepting applications for veterans’ support program

By MooseJawToday.com staff

The Government of Saskatchewan, Royal Canadian Legion’s Saskatchewan Command and the Saskatchewan Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) have announced that the Saskatchewan Veteran Service Club Support Program intake for 2025-26 is now open.

Introduced in 2019-20, the program provides grants for building upgrades, operations, events and other activities to advance the work and help strengthen the long-term sustainability of veteran service organizations across the province.

“Our province’s veterans service organizations play a vital role (as) they enrich our communities, preserve local history and work tirelessly on behalf of veterans who have faithfully served our province and our country,” said the Hon. Alana Ross, minister of Parks, Culture and Sport.

“We cannot thank them enough for their continued efforts and look forward to continuing this important work.”

Applications are being accepted until June 1.

In 2024-25, grants were provided to 81 Legion branches, ANAVETS units and other registered, non-profit veterans organizations across the province.

“The Saskatchewan Veteran Service Club Support Program has resulted in many achievements and accomplishments,” said Carol A. Pederson, president of the Royal Canadian Legion’s Saskatchewan Command.

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“It is not by chance that our Legion branches in Saskatchewan find success, but by the dedication and hard work of Legion members and the support of the Government of Saskatchewan,” she continued.

“This program ensures the work of the Royal Canadian Legion, directed toward veterans and our communities, will continue. I express the deepest gratitude of the Royal Canadian Legion for the Saskatchewan Veterans Service Club Support Program,” Pederson added.

The program is delivered collaboratively by the Royal Canadian Legion’s Saskatchewan Command, the Saskatchewan ANAVETS and the Government of Saskatchewan.

“On behalf of the ANAVETS members, staff and directors, I would like to thank the Saskatchewan government for this wonderful grant program,” said Rick Taylor, president of the ANAVETS’ Saskatchewan Command.

“Our units, their members and friends have greatly benefited from these grants during the past years. We have used previous grants for furnishings, flooring, roofs, and appliances,” he added. “We look forward once again to enhancing our units with this year’s grants.”

More information about the program, guidelines and applications is available through the Royal Canadian Legion Saskatchewan Command at 306-525-8739 or by emailing admin@sasklegion.ca.

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PAGE A40 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, April 23, 2025

How to Win a One Act Play: Cornerstone advances to Sask. Drama Assn’s Region 2 finals Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Cornerstone Christian School’s drama program has earned runner-up honours at the Saskatchewan Drama Association’s Region Two One Act Festival, earning them a spot at the provincial finals next month.

The school’s production of “How to Win a One Act Play Competition” — perhaps a fitting choice — stood out among a field of strong contenders, clinching the Runner-Up for Best Overall Production title. The next festival will take place at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on May 8 to 10, with Cornerstone scheduled to perform on Friday, May 9.

The ensemble of 34 students, codirected by Tanya Johnson, Jasmine Stevens, and Scott Robertson, delivered a performance that resonated with both audiences and adjudicators.

“Oh, my goodness… we’re thrilled,” said Johnson, Cornerstone’s principal and a co-director. “The students did phenomenally well and we’re thrilled to advance to provincials now.”

The play offered a comedic take on a high school drama teacher’s quest to secure a trophy for the theatre department. After being reminded that every other department in the school has won an award, the drama teacher attempts to craft a play that ticks all the boxes for

The cast and crew of Cornerstone Christian School’s “How to Win a One Act Play Competition.” Photo by: Submitted photo

competition judges, leading to “humorous chaos” as students and teachers clash over creative decisions.

“It’s a really comedic look at the process of staging a play,” Johnson explained. “The theatre humour within it just kind of lands really well with a drama competition audience.”

A degree of the production’s success is attributed to the collaborative efforts of the directing team.

“We have a directing team, which is really nice, because with 34 students, we also have to build sets, get costumes, (and create) props. As well…, on stage

there’s lighting, sound, and all of those things,” Johnson noted.

On hearing that they were selected to advance, the students reacted with excitement.

“They were thrilled and really, really excited,” Johnson said. “They… were proud of their performance, and they knew they had done well, but they (were also humbled and appreciative because they) also saw all of the other plays at the regional festival, which is always a really tight competition.”

Awards and recognition In addition to the top production

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honour, the group also received runnerup honours for Best Technical Production, Best Technical Crew, and several individual medals and certificates.

Technical medal recipients included Emma S. for stage management and Linnea M. for lighting. Parker S. was named runner-up to the Bob Hinitt Technical Award for his sound design work.

On the acting side, Phoebe S. took home an acting medal, while Isaiah A. was recognized as a runner-up to the Mary Ellen Burgess Award for Acting.

Acting Certificates of Merit were awarded to Ruth L. and Yigoro B. Jennah P. received the festival’s Cheer Award.

Looking to the future Looking ahead, the team is preparing for the provincial festival by incorporating feedback from regional adjudicators.

“We’ll take the feedback that we got from regionals and we’ll incorporate some of those ideas into our next performance at provincials,” Johnson said.

The provincial festival offers students the opportunity to learn from theatre professionals and observe highquality productions from across Saskatchewan.

“Our (students) are exposed to high quality theatre, and then they can put what they see and what they learn into their tool belts to use… in the future,” she explained.

Cornerstone has a history of success at the provincial level, having advanced in the last three years that provincials were held.

“We don’t take that for granted,” Johnson said. “It’s really an honour to be able to represent Region Two.” The upcoming festival will feature 12 plays, showcasing the best high school drama productions from across the province.

“These are the best plays from across the province, so it will be a great weekend of theatre in our city,” Johnson said, inviting the community to attend.

The festival will take place in the A.E. Peacock Collegiate theatre at 145 Ross Street East.

To learn more, visit SaskDrama. com.