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MOOSE JAW’S HOMEGROWN NEWSPAPER
student athlete awarded ‘Women Fore Women’ scholarship ahead of Aug. 9 tournament
A fifth young athlete has joined the ranks of scholarship recipients through the Hillcrest Ladies Golf League’s “Women Fore Women” program, marking the largest total awarded in a single year since the initiative began.
Makaya Arnott, a recent graduate of Peacock Collegiate, was officially presented with a $5,000 scholarship after receiving confirmation of her invitation to compete with the University of Victoria’s swim team this fall.
Arnott joins previously announced recipients Katie Rogers, Mykenzie Shymko, Ellah Flanagan, and Leoncia White — all high-performance athletes from Moose Jaw now heading into postsecondary studies in their chosen sport.
“This year, we’re awarding five $5,000 scholarships, which is the most we’ve ever done,” said Deb Negraiff, chair of the scholarship committee, earlier. “We’re thrilled to be able to support these incredible young women as they continue to pursue their athletic and academic goals.”
Arnott’s presentation had been on hold until confirmation from the U of V swim team was received. Once accepted
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Makaya Arnott, right, accepts a $5,000 scholarship from the Women Fore Women program, presented by the Hillcrest Ladies Golf League to support female student-athletes in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Submitted photo
to the varsity swim team, she met all eligibility requirements for the Women Fore Women scholarship, which considers athletic excellence, academic effort, leadership, and community involvement.
The milestone comes just days ahead of this year’s Women Fore Women golf tournament, scheduled for Friday, Aug. 9, at the Hillcrest Golf Club. The annual tournament serves as the primary
fundraiser for the scholarship program, with funds raised going directly toward supporting female student-athletes in Moose Jaw.
Negraiff added that seeing five student athletes earn scholarships this year is a rewarding reflection of how much the program has grown.
“We started with one $500 scholarship,” she said. “To date, we’ve given out just over $50,000 in scholarships.”
Negraiff said excitement is already building for this year’s tournament, and confirmed that only eight spots remain open as of Aug. 1.
The Aug. 9 tournament features a 10 a.m. shotgun start at the Hillcrest Golf Club and is open to both members and non-members. Entry is $110 for Hillcrest members and $130 for nonmembers, with proceeds supporting next year’s scholarship recipients.
For more information about the Women Fore Women tournament or scholarship program, visit HillcrestGolf. ca or call the Hillcrest Golf Club at 306693-1921.
The Hillcrest Golf Club is located at 1599 Main Street North.
Small-town Mortlach diner serves up big-hearted tribute for veterans
The village of Mortlach might be small in size, but it continues to stand tall with gratitude.
On July 26 and 27, the Pit Stop Family Diner once again opened its doors to host the second annual Veterans’ Appreciation Weekend — a grassroots event dedicated to honouring Canada’s veterans with food, fellowship, and good oldfashioned hospitality.
“I’m just trying to do something meaningful for those who’ve served,” said owner Terry Bittles. “This is a small place, but we’ve got a lot of heart.”
Veterans from across Saskatchewan and Manitoba dropped in throughout the weekend, some in uniform, others in denim and pins, all of them welcomed with a warm meal and friendly conversation. The diner, decorated with photos, plaques, and framed newspaper clippings, took on the look of a living tribute to service members past and present.
Display booths were offered to veterans’ organizations for fundraising and outreach, with raffles, 50/50 draws, and memorabilia sales helping to support their work. The weekend event was also meant to foster a strong sense of con-
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
nection. Local representation included Albert Taylor, vice-president of Moose Jaw ANAVETS No. 252, who joined the weekend gathering to connect with fellow veterans and support outreach efforts.
“You could sit down for coffee and end up swapping stories with someone who served in Afghanistan, someone who served in Bosnia, and someone who’s now helping today’s youth in Cadets,” Bittles said. “That’s the magic of it.”
One of the weekend’s highlights was a visit from Donna Hartie, a veterans services officer from Winnipeg’s ANAVETS Unit 283. Hartie shared her experiences working with veterans in need, especially women and Indigenous service members, and offered insight into benefits many veterans may not realize they’re entitled to.
“It’s not about numbers,” Bittles said, alluding to the small yet growing attendance for the annual event. “It’s about making people feel seen, heard, and appreciated.”
That is exactly what this village in small-town Saskatchewan accomplished.
“You don’t have to be a big city to do something meaningful,” he added. “Sometimes, all it takes is a warm meal and a place to listen.”
The Pit Stop Diner is located at 111 Rose Street in Mortlach and can be reached at 1-306-355-2245.
“People walked out of here with new information that could really change their lives,” Bittles said.
For those who missed it, he’s already thinking about next year — and Hartie pledged to invite a large group of Indigenous veterans from Manitoba to join the next gathering.
A small group gathers for a photo inside the Pit Stop Diner on the afternoon of July 27. Albert Taylor, vice-president of Moose Jaw ANAVETS No. 252 is second from left, event host Terry Bittles is third from left, and guest speaker Donna Hartie is fourth from left.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Flags and signage mark the outdoor dining space of the Pit Stop Diner in Mortlach, where the second annual Veterans Appreciation Weekend was held July 26 and 27. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Two veterans prepare to depart from the Pit Stop Diner on July 26, accompanied by their mother in her 80s, who rode along for the visit. Photo by: Aaron Walker
A display table inside the Pit Stop Diner featured plaques, photos, and framed newspaper clippings — turning the space into a temporary tribute to military service. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Terry Bittles shares a few words following Donna Hartie’s July 27 presentation at the Pit Stop Diner, where guests gathered to honour veterans and connect over stories and shared service. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Service officer Donna Hartie fights for Canada’s forgotten veterans
When Donna Hartie stands before a room of veterans, she doesn’t just speak — she listens, connects, and offers something many struggling veterans haven’t felt in years: someone who truly has their back.
Hartie, a service officer with the Army, Navy, and Air Force Veterans (ANAVETS) Assiniboia Unit 283 in Winnipeg, Man., was the featured speaker during Mortlach’s second annual Veterans Appreciation Weekend, hosted at the Pit Stop Family Diner on July 26 and 27.
Her presentation wasn’t just a formality — it was a lifeline.
“This is Donna, and she … is a co-ordinator for anyone who happens to come to her with any issue to do with military pensions, injury claims, anything like that,” said Terry Bittles, owner of the Pit Stop Diner and host to the weekend event. “She does a fantastic job, and here she is, out here advocating for us.”
Hartie assists with military pensions, organizes and conducts celebrations of life, offers grief counselling for families, and connects veterans directly to the help they need. Hartie estimated that she performs 10 to 60 memorial services each year, many for veterans with few or no family members. In the last decade, her role has expanded far beyond ceremony.
“The first thing I wanted to learn was about female veterans,” she said. “I never heard anything about female veterans in the whole 10 years I was working (at my previous job) … I’m now in contact with 25 different organizations and help them out by sharing information and participating with anything they need ….”
That quest led Hartie into a new chapter of service — one focused on Indigenous veterans, women, and
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Donna Hartie delivers a presentation on July 27 at the Pit Stop Diner in Mortlach, where she shared her work supporting veterans through ANAVETS Unit 283, including funeral services, pension support, and outreach to Indigenous and female veterans.
those too often overlooked by the system. Today, she works with more than two dozen organizations across Manitoba, including peacekeepers, cadet programs, and cultural veterans’ groups.
“I make sure other groups, including Portuguese veterans and Ukrainian veterans, are now participating in what we do. They’re also asking for help now, and we’re stepping up and helping them as well,” she said.
Hartie also supports Indigenous veterans through her work with the Southern Chiefs Organization, and helps source essentials like food, clothing, and fundraising assistance for those in need. Whether working with non-members, new members, or veterans facing
medical challenges, she liaises with more than two dozen organizations to ensure no one falls through the cracks.
She also works hard to ensure those in need are connected directly — not through machines, but through people.
“When anybody comes to me and they’re asking for help, I send them directly to the person (who can help them out best). You will never have to go to a machine (or) talk to a machine,” Hartie explained.
She was recently honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work and has been recognized by both Canadian and American veteran organizations.
During her talk, Hartie also spoke of her work with Indigenous veterans and her cultural ties to Nelson House, Man., where she’s considered part of the community through marriage. Her ceremonial outfit — adorned with symbolic patches, beadwork, and a bear emblem — reflected that close connection.
“I was given the name Mama Bear, and that’s who I am,” she said, adding that “I’m not a warrior” when asked about participation in Indigenous sweat lodges for warriors.
“She just mentioned, ‘I am not a warrior,’” Bittles told the crowd following Hartie’s presentation. “I think you are — for everything that you do for everyone who needs your help.”
For more information that may be of benefit to military veterans, Donna Hartie can be reached by email at Maskwa1957@gmail.com or by phoning her Winnipeg office at 1-204-837-6708.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Guest Editorial
By Joyce Walter, Moose Jaw Express
Locations suggested for city dump will raise arguments
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.
That’s what it seems Moose Jaw City Council is doing in its quest to find a cozy location for the new landfill, or in laypersons’ terms, the garbage dump.
Certain reports on the existing landfill suggest it will have space for city waste only until 2030, a mere five years down the road. There are differing opinions on the length of time it will take until the dump exceeds its borders but five years is the criteria for council’s decision.
It was only last year that residents of the Rural Municipality of Moose Jaw learned that the city had
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
dibs on productive agricultural land, located right in their backyard. The voices against this location were loud, organized, emotional and successful in putting the bug in the ears of the RM Reeve and council to vote against any annexation, re-zoning or discretionary use. The message to the city: “keep your garbage, please.”
At a recent city council meeting, with one councillor absent and the mayor recusing himself over a conflict of interest, the remaining councillors decided to carry on with finding a new spot as recommended by a consultant hired to find a suitable location.
It is mysterious to taxpayers outside the council table, that last year’s potential site, the one the RM said NO to, is one of three spots suggested by the consultant. What has changed since last year that would encourage councillors to evaluate that site again, voting 4-1 in favour of doing so?
Does city administration know something that would encourage rural residents to go away and stop causing conflict? Just imagine how many phone calls
are going back and forth among our rural neighbors. There is a second proposed site, also in the RM, one that would also require annexation.
The third site on the table is already owned by the city and would not require annexation, nor purchase at 15 times current property taxes as tax loss compensation. It is an area around the wastewater treatment plant and lagoons. However, more problematic might be the negotiations that would have to take place between 15 Wing regarding the 15 Wing-Moose Jaw Airport Zoning Regulations. Amendments or exemptions to the regulations would be required. The consultant notes a southwest-to northeast runway would likely have to be decommissioned.
All of us should be prepared for some future heated discussions between the city and rural residents if annexation is supported. Public information meetings about all proposed sites might alleviate some objections. Or not.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Shuffleboard association announces winners from annual tournament
Submitted
The Saskatchewan Shuffleboard Association held its annual three-day floor shuffleboard tournament in late July at the Eaton’s Centre.
There were 40 participants — and many fans of the game — from across the three Prairie provinces and Arizona, with many renewing long-time friendships and making new ones through the enthusiasm for the game.
An annual general meeting was also held, followed by a banquet. Those attending appreciated the upgraded venue, which is the largest in Saskatchewan. Many travel a shuffleboard circuit in Canada throughout the summer before heading to warmer climates to play in the winter.
Winners received pins and cash
prizes in their respective events, with a large trophy being presented to the overall winner.
1st event:
1st - Bob Street, Moose Jaw and overall winner for 3 of 4 years
2nd - Brad Sawchuk, Red Deer, AB
3rd - Jackie Street, Moose Jaw
4th - Joan Bowley, Whitewood, SK
2nd event:
1st - Pat Hall, Moose Jaw
2nd - Dale Markwart, Regina
3rd - Ken Blumhagen, Red Deer, AB
4th - Wayne Short, Moose Jaw
3rd event:
1st - Jim Klassen, Estevan
2nd - Bev Lyon, Red Deer, AB
3rd - Barry Stock, Moose Jaw
4th - Joan Lee, Erickson, MB
4th event:
1st - Kenda Tucker, Carvel, AB
2nd - Alice Archer, Regina 3rd - Shirley Wright, Plenty, SK 4th - Noreen Klassen, Estevan
This year’s 31st annual Western Canada Bob and Corinne Cobbe Classic floor shuffleboard tournament at the Timothy Eaton’s Centre was dedicated as the “Milly Schultz Memorial Tournament.”
For years, Mildred (Milly) Schultz was dedicated to Moose Jaw’s shuffleboard community and helping organize its annual tournaments, so her death late last year left a hole in many people’s hearts. That is why organizers dedicated this year’s event in her honour.
Bob Street (left) receives a trophy from Earl Berard, the Saskatchewan Shuffleboard Association president. Photo courtesy Pat Hall
First event winners, from left, are Bob Street, Brad Sawchuk, Jackie Street and Joan Bowley. Photo courtesy Pat Hall
Second event winners, from left, are Wayne Short, Ken Blumhagen, Dale Markwart and Pat Hall. Photo courtesy Pat Hall
Third event winners, from left, are Jim Klassen, Bev Lyon, Barry Stock and Joan Lee. Photo courtesy Pat Hall
Fourth event winners, from left, are Kenda Tucker, Alice Archer, Shirley Wright and Noreen Klassen. Photo courtesy Pat Hall
Province’s finances ‘pretty
Saskatchewan’s finance minister says the province’s fiscal situation is looking “pretty good,” while ministry officials are working on producing a first-quarter report for the 2025-26 year.
The Hon. Jim Reiter was in Moose Jaw recently and spoke with reporters about his meetings with the business community and Chamber of Commerce. Besides finances, he also touched on other issues such as health care and immigration.
Reiter said Saskatchewan is first and second in the country when it comes to its credit rating and net debt-to-GDP, respectively. However, the government “always wants to do better,” since a better fiscal position allows it to provide more services.
“So there’s some headwinds right now, no doubt … . There’s going to be some extra costs (with things like fighting wildfires),” he said. “But those are needed costs. We’re happy to do that.”
Continuing, he said the price of oil is down, although higher potash revenue could mitigate the decrease of the
good,’ Q1 fiscal update coming soon,
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
former; tariffs have not yet had “a huge impact.”
The other major fiscal challenge is the tariffs China imposed on Canada’s canola industry, which are having a “significant impact,” said Reiter. The province wants Ottawa to address that issue immediately, while Premier Scott Moe has lobbied the prime minister and other federal ministers to do something.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Finance officials are working on a first-quarter fiscal report and could produce it by late August. However, the finance minister was unable to offer a preview of what it might show, aside from more expenses for fighting fires and fewer revenues from oil and gas.
Reiter said it was too early to tell whether the government would end the year with a $12-million surplus, and even though the Opposition NDP “made a big deal about it,” he noted that “it’s largely a balanced budget.” Moreover, based on geopolitical tensions — specifically, Israel’s attack on Iran and the effect on oil — the budget could “tilt on
either side.”
The finance minister added that his job is to look at the situation “from a big picture” perspective and, regardless of how small the surplus or deficit is, ensure that the province is fiscally sound.
The Hon. Tim McLeod, MLA for Moose Jaw North, said Saskatchewan’s positive fiscal position and sound fiscal management show in the investments that the government is making. This includes the recent announcement of 77 new and enhanced health-care positions across the province, including seven in Moose Jaw.
Furthermore, he pointed to “huge investments” going to fight forest fires, to creating the Marshals’ Service and adding more officers province-wide, and into social housing and addiction treatment centres.
Reiter pointed back to the spring budget, where the province did not raise taxes but targeted specific areas like health care, community safety and education with more money and provided affordability measures for citizens.
minister says
The reason the government did all those things, he added, was because of a strong economy and higher tax revenues.
Reiter said he thought the government was doing enough to prepare for the future when the province’s non-renewable natural resources ran out. He pointed to the efforts of his predecessor, Donna Harpauer, who worked to ensure revenue from natural resources accounted for roughly 15 per cent of the budget.
“It’s kind of a healthy area,” he said.
Continuing, Reiter said Saskatchewan has “been blessed” with an abundance of natural resources, while most times, prices for such resources are cyclical. That is the reason the government must meet with industry experts to learn what the price of oil or potash could be and make financial estimates accordingly.
“So … the most fiscally responsible way to do that is just to make sure you don’t get too heavily reliant (on one natural resources),” he added. “And we think we’ve found a pretty good balance where we’re at right now.”
Tuesday, August 19 th
~ Rodo’s Pizza Event Room
9th Avenue South & Grandview Street, Moose Jaw
6:30pm (your choice from the menu)
Monday, August 25 th
~ Houston Pizza
117 Main Street North, Moose Jaw
6:30pm (your choice from the menu)
please join us for this 90 minute seminar over a free meal
~ invite a friend or family member as well ~ people make it a priority to look after their own arrangements. Find out how to control costs, provide peace of mind to your family and executor, and fund costs in advance (with a monthly payment or lump sum). Purple Shield Plans are customized to your wishes.
Since a complimentary meal will be provided, we would request hearing of your plans to attend by calling Moose Jaw Funeral Home 306.693.4550
Tuesday, September 2 nd
~ Rodo’s Pizza Event Room
9th Avenue South & Grandview Street, Moose Jaw
6:30pm (your choice from the menu)
Tuesday, September 9 th
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117 Main Street North, Moose Jaw 6:30pm (your choice from the menu)
By Patricia
Does Gardening Help You Live Longer?
Many of the world’s centenarians are gardeners. Is gardening the elixir that helps to keep you to live longer – but even more importantly live better?
It is very well known that an outdoor lifestyle that also involves physical activity is linked to a longer life. If you are a gardener, then this is an easy way to accomplish getting outside and doing some low-intensity activity. Gardeners do live longer and are less stressed as there are both physical and mental benefits from gardening.
A fairly recent Dutch study took two groups of participants and gave them a fairly stressful activity. After completing this activity one half of the group read indoors while the other half gardened outdoors for a period of thirty
minutes. The group that read indoors reported their mood “further deteriorated” while the gardening group showed lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and felt “fully restored”.
In Australia, researchers following men and women in their sixties and found that those participants that gardened had a 36% lower risk of dementia than the non-gardening group. Also, elderly people suffering from cognitive issues reported benefits from garden settings and by involvement in horticultural therapy. Sunlight, fresh air and the colours and textures of plants help improve visual and tactile ability.
Okinawa, Japan has the world’s highest ratio of centenarians with a whopping 50 per 100,000 people. Many of these residents maintain small personal gardens well into old age. There is a saying in Okinawa that anyone that grows old healthfully needs an ikagai or reason for liv-
ing. Gardening gives you a reason to get up and move each and every day. One other factor that is key to this healthy lifestyle is the concept of yuimaru or a high level of social connectedness obtained by bringing their produce to market and sharing your latest creations from the garden as a social activity. This connectivity to other people and to nature itself by living surrounded by lush greenery helps us to live longer and have less chance of developing cancer or respiratory illness.
One other important factor is gardeners often eat better and often develop a more Mediterranean diet that is rich in vegetables, fruit, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish and olive oil. Vegetables that you grow yourself taste better and are actually healthier than vegetables that are produced commercially. They are richer in vitamins, minerals and phytoactive compounds. Gardeners tend to grow what they like to eat and thus eat more of this healthy food and enjoy it more.
If we take a moment to explore the benefits of horticultural therapy these factors are even enforced more strongly. HT is the use of plants and horticulture or gardening to improve the quality of life socially, physically, mentally and spiritually. I think that is another way to
A Green Lawn or Rocks and Gravel?
By Richard Dowson
demonstrate what gardening gives back to you, the gardener. Whether your HT is used to improve rehabilitation, to build a vocational option into your life or if you just use it as a social program – it is all beneficial to you personally. In my opinion everyone should garden forever, but it is totally reasonable and acceptable to alter or evolve your garden to meet your current needs, abilities and skill level. Be creative, be brave and get outside to garden!
There are no guarantees in life and gardening is not any guarantee of living a longer life, but the lifestyle factors associated with gardening – going outside, physical activity and eating a healthy plant-based diet just might be the ticket to living a longer, healthier and happier life!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail.com on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort.
Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW… https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?
I live in the semi-arid Palliser Triangle region of the Great Plains. Rainfall is limited.
Some homeowners are opting out of having a Green Lawn and replacing them with rocks, gravel, and stones. The reason, I’m told, is to reduce maintenance by not cutting the grass and saving money by not buying fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides or paying for extra water. Keeping the Lawn – an Alternative Approach
Here are a few secrets I learned from Bill Waud who taught at Peacock HS for years and, from my own experi-
ence living south of Hanna, Alberta in the semi-arid Special Areas.
• Do not water your lawn. Without water the grass grows slowly and only needs to be cut 3-times a summer. Let the rain do its trick. Don’t pay for ‘lawn water’.
• Save money by not buying and using fertilizers, pesticides or herbi-
cides. That stuff kills our cute little ‘bush-bunnies’. Save money and the bush-bunnies.
• If folks complain, tell them you are being eco-friendly, have a chemically free lawn and doing your part to save the planet.
• And yes – and don’t forget, weeds grow in rock ‘lawns’ too.
Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
August Specials:
MON: $20 o 60/80 Min Pedicures
TUES: $100 Mani/Pedi Combo
WED: 25% o Waxing Treatments
THURS: 20% o Relaxation Massage/Body Treatments FRI: $99.00 60 Min Facials
15 Wing honours fallen officer O’Donnell with police building dedication
In a solemn ceremony held on the morning of July 30, 15 Wing Moose Jaw officially dedicated its military police detachment building to the memory of Master Warrant Officer Norman (Danny) Elbridge O’Donnell, CD — a decorated soldier whose legacy of selfless service now lives on in brick, with his name overlooking the main entrance to the base.
Building 79 on NATO Drive will now be known as the Master Warrant Officer N.E. O’Donnell, CD Police Detachment, honouring the veteran’s decades of service across multiple conflicts and his ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
O’Donnell, who died of a heart attack on July 30, 1978, while escorting Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during a royal visit to Moose Jaw, was remembered by dignitaries, defence personnel, and family members during a ceremony marked by military tradition and personal reflection.
“Danny literally died serving Queen and country,” said Saskatchewan Lieutenant-Governor the Honourable Bernadette McIntyre. “Commemorating his service to the Crown with this building
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Family members travelled from across the country to attend the dedication, including granddaughter Kimberley O’Donnell and nephew Richard Hansen.
“To hear that he was going to be recognized for the service he performed was pretty special,” said Hansen, recalling childhood memories of fly fishing and wilderness adventures with his uncle in New Brunswick.
Kimberley, who never met her grandfather, said his story only recently came to light within her family.
dedication seems most fitting.”
The ceremony opened with a viceregal salute and territorial land acknowledgment, followed by opening remarks from Warrant Officer M.L. Sanders and a biography reading by Master Cpl. McLean. The official unveiling of the detachment sign was followed by a blessing from the padre and tributes from family members and Canadian Forces Provost Marshal Brig.-Gen. Vanessa Hanrahan.
Brig.-Gen. Hanrahan, commander of the Canadian Forces Military Police Group, said O’Donnell exemplified the very best of the profession.
“If I look at his character, his honour, his willingness to actually give of himself … there are many examples over his career where he put himself on the line and put himself in danger to serve others,” she said. “That very much speaks to what we expect of, not just our Canadian Armed Forces … but also … a military police officer (and) our law enforcement partners all over the country
…. We always need to be willing to put ourselves in harm’s way to serve others, and I think he exemplified that with courage, with dedication, and with devotion.”
O’Donnell’s career spanned deployments to Korea, where he was wounded while rescuing a fellow soldier behind enemy lines, to peacekeeping in Vietnam, Cold War postings in Germany, and domestic assignments across Canada. He served with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, the Royal Canadian Air Force Security Branch, and eventually as a respected military police leader.
“This story is one of selfless service, and it reminds us all of the weight of the uniform we wear and the legacy we inherit,” Sanders said. “Let this detachment stand as a place of continued vigilance and pride — a place where every member who passes through its doors knows the name above them represents courage, honour, and duty fulfilled to the very end.”
“(Military families) don’t really talk about what they do or how they do it, and that was something big in my family,” she said. “I honestly didn’t even know that my grandpa had died in the line of duty … it was just an opening to this big can of worms of how amazing and incredible my family has been.”
Asked how O’Donnell might have felt about the building dedication, Hansen reflected on his uncle’s quiet humility.
“Honestly, he was a quiet one … He liked to just do his work quietly in the background and make sure it was done properly.”
The ceremony ended with closing remarks and a message of gratitude: that O’Donnell’s name will not only appear in the Books of Remembrance in Ottawa, but now above the door at 15 Wing — where the next generation of military police officers can draw inspiration from his example.
“All the flyovers today are him looking down on you, saying ‘Well done,’” said Hanrahan. “You’ve got the torch now, and I know you will continue well into the future.”
Dignitaries and family gather in front of the new sign at the building renamed in honour of MWO N.E. O’Donnell, CD. From left: Warrant Officer M.L. Sanders, Chief Warrant Officer Dube, Brig.-Gen. Vanessa Hanrahan, Lieutenant-Governor Bernadette McIntyre, Kimberley O’Donnell, and Richard Hansen. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Relatives of Master Warrant Officer N.E. O’Donnell, CD, Richard Hansen (left) and Kimberley O’Donnell (right), unveil the new sign dedicating 70 NATO Drive on July 30. Warrant Officer M.L. Sanders stands to the right. Photo by: Aaron Walker
A Moose Jaw woman accused of attempted murder will spend the foreseeable future in jail until her next court appearance after a judge denied her request for bail.
Meagan Windover, 30, appeared in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on July 29 for her bail hearing. At the request of her Legal Aid lawyer, Suzanne Lalonde, Judge David Chow imposed a publication ban on the evidence presented during the hearing. This means the media cannot report on what allegedly happened during the incident.
After hearing arguments from the Crown and defence, Judge Chow reviewed the situation — using three criteria, or grounds — and discussed why
he was denying Windover’s bail request.
Ground A looks at whether it’s necessary to keep people in jail to ensure they attend court. Judge Chow said that he was satisfied that it was unnecessary to detain Windover on this ground and gave several reasons why.
Ground B looks at whether it’s necessary to keep people in jail to protect the public and prevent people from reoffending.
Judge Chow said Windover had failed to satisfy him on this ground and gave several reasons why.
Ground C looks at whether it’s necessary to keep people in jail to maintain the public’s confidence in the justice sys-
tem. Judge Chow said that Windover had failed to persuade him on this ground and gave several reasons why.
The judge then adjourned the matter to Thursday, Aug. 28.
According to previous information, officers were dispatched to the North Service Road on July 14, around 9:12 a.m. for a call involving a firearm.
Initial information indicated that a male youth suspect shot the victim and then fled in a vehicle. Upon arrival, police located a male who had suffered a gunshot wound and was attended to by EMS, then transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The two individuals knew each other.
Through the investigation, police identified the suspect to be a 17-year-old male. Additionally, police identified Windover as a second suspect.
Police discovered that the woman was at a residence within the Lakeview Trailer Court and executed an arrest warrant. Officers arrested Windover without incident with the assistance of the MJPS’s crisis negotiators, tactical response team (TRT) and community policing division. Meanwhile, police arrested the 17-year-old a day later and charged him with attempted murder and multiple firearms-related offences. He has already made his first court appearance.
Ryan Kupser will spend the next two months in jail for trafficking fentanyl that a Crown prosecutor says posed a risk to users because it was mixed with other substances.
Kupser, 45, from Regina, appeared by video in Moose Jaw Provincial Court recently, where he was sentenced after pleading guilty to several counts of theft, one count of breaking and entering to commit mischief, one count of breaching a curfew order, two counts of possession of a Schedule 1 substance for trafficking and one count of possession of property obtained by crime.
The Crown stayed several other charges.
As part of a joint submission, the judge sentenced Kupser to 975 days in jail. However, because of how long he had been on remand since his arrest,
the court credited him with 911 days in jail, which means he had 64 days left to serve.
The judge also imposed a lifetime firearms prohibition on the Regina man, ordered him to provide a DNA sample, and waived the victim fund surcharge.
Court heard that without remand time, Kupser could have been sent to a federal jail for 25 months for the trafficking offence.
The charges of trafficking and possessing property obtained by crime occurred in Moose Jaw on Feb. 13, 2024, after police executed a traffic stop on the 1000 block of Stadacona Street East after discovering a suspected impaired driver, federal Crown prosecutor Connor Ferguson said.
Kupser gave police a false identity and false birth date, while officers ar-
rested him for possessing a vehicle that a Regina resident had reported stolen, the Crown continued. Police also found three cellphones, fentanyl and crystal meth in the vehicle.
The methamphetamine weighed 35.6 grams and had a street value of $3,560, while the fentanyl weighed 67.3 grams and had an estimated street value of $5,384, Ferguson noted.
Police also found “a substantial amount” of Pokémon cards and sports cards — 25 boxes — in their original packaging, which officers suspected were stolen and would be exchanged for illicit drugs, the federal Crown added.
A police analysis determined that the fentanyl had been altered with benzodiazepines, which created “a significant risk factor” for users compared to standard fentanyl, Ferguson said.
Continuing, Ferguson said he wasn’t suggesting that Kupser was aware of or was the one who altered the substances. However, he pointed out that when individuals traffic substances and are unsure about quality control, “it puts the public at a significant risk, which can’t be over-
Furthermore, Ferguson said that this was a situation where Kupser made a “bad decision on top of (a) bad decision” because he allegedly drove impaired, drove a stolen vehicle, had ille-
gal substances on him, had stolen items and gave police a false ID.
The federal Crown added that Kupser’s criminal record started in 1999 and continued until 2018, while his crimes — which included other drug charges — stretched from British Columbia to Manitoba.
Provincial Crown prosecutor Rob Parker summarized Kupser’s other offences, which included several incidents of theft from a clothing store in Regina, a break-in at a Regina business and breaking into an abandoned home, all between 2019 and 2023.
Defence lawyer Drew Hitchcock said Kupser is originally from Revelstoke, B.C., has health challenges and has a drug addiction. However, he had been clean from drugs after spending the last 17 months in jail, while he planned to leave Regina because there were too many “triggers” there.
Hitchcock added that with the fentanyl that was allegedly altered, there was no expert evidence provided to confirm that.
The judge accepted the joint submission and imposed the recommended sentence on Kupser. She also told him that with his time being sober in custody, she hoped he had a plan to become a “contributing member of society.”
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
The miscellaneous sections of community cookbooks sometimes range from ethnic foods to pioneer cuisine then how to make soap and cleaning products.
This week’s recipes — all for edibles — come from a Saskatchewan Women’s Institute cookbook published in 1980.
• • •
BRUNCH CASSEROLE
16-20 slices of bread, any type
8-10 slices of ham or back bacon
8-10 slices of cheddar cheese
6 eggs
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp. dry mustard
3 cups milk
1/4 tsp. cayenne
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 cup onion, chopped
1/4 cup green pepper, chopped
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup crushed potato chips
Remove crusts from bread. Arrange 8-10 slices to cover a 9x13 inch buttered pan.
Place a slice of ham and cheese on each slice of bread. Top with remaining bread.
Don’t confuse soap for soup in miscellaneous sections
Beat eggs and add salt, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, milk and seasonings. Stir in onion and green pepper. Pour this mixture over the bread. Refrigerate overnight.
Before baking, pour melted butter over the mixture in baking pan. Top with crushed potato chips. Bake at 350 degrees F. for one hour. Makes 8-10 servings.
•
VEGETABLE PIE
2 tbsps. fat
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1 cup carrot, sliced
1 cup peas
1 cup green beans
1 cup milk
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. celery seed
Topping:
1 cup mashed potatoes
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/2 cup flour
1 tsp. baking powder
2 tbsps. butter, melted
Melt fat in a large skillet. Add vegetables, milk,
pepper and celery seed. Transfer into a deep baking dish that has been buttered.
Turn out onto a floured baking surface and roll out big enough to cover the baking dish. Vent centre of topping.
Bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes. Makes 6 servings.
•
SCHNITZ PIE
1-9 inch unbaked pie shell
5 cups apples, peeled, cored and quartered
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsps. flour
3/4 cup white sugar
3 tbsps. butter
1 tsp. cinnamon
Arrange peeled and quartered apples in pie shell. Stir sour cream and then pour it over the apples. Mix flour, sugar, butter and cinnamon and sprinkle over the apples and sour cream.
Bake at 325 degrees F for about 45 minutes or until apples are cooked and custard is firm. Cool. Makes 6 servings.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
COMPLET CAR CARE & REPAIR
The question should be: Do 16-year-olds want to vote? Reflective Moments
I am in a time capsule this week, roaring back to the year when my age was 16.
That was the year I got my driver’s licence, had a boyfriend with a truck and was the editor of the school’s yearbook. I was involved with the Junior Red Cross Club at the school and I provided coverage of school events to CHAB Radio and the Mainliner Coderre News.
The topic of being able to vote at our age was not a topic of conversation
By Joyce Walter - for Moose Jaw Express
parties, and newspapers that provided a perspective of the election beyond our community borders.
The teacher divided the class into the three parties: Liberal, CCF and Progressive Conservative. I was put into the Liberal camp with the objective of electing Ross Thatcher as the premier of the province. We researched the topics of concern, gave speeches for or against, depending on our party affiliation. The
CCF whose party only elected 26. The PCs managed to elect one MLA. In the classroom vote, the Liberals won with a clear majority. I was called on to give an acceptance speech. I’m sure it was eloquent but certainly not as off-the-cuff as the speech given by the new premier upon accepting the election results.
Advance two years and there was more on our 16-year-old minds than thinking about being able to vote officially, in any kind of non-classroom election. But if we had been given the opportunity, perhaps we would have been up to the task of voting wisely and with knowledge of the campaign issues.
In the 1967 provincial election, our class discussed the campaign but did not have a full-blown lesson plan on that topic. We did hold a mock vote and once again we matched the provincial results, re-electing Ross Thatcher. I could not find my Ross is Boss T-shirt for the occasion.
All of this historical musing is designed to let us determine if we think Saskatchewan/Canada should enact legislation to allow 16-year-olds to vote in provincial/federal elections. This topic has been discussed and dismissed on previous occasions but now it is being brought to the top of the desk again because of legislation passed in the United
Kingdom. Legislators there say the lower voting age will “strengthen British democracy and restore trust in politics.”
Should Canada and Saskatchewan follow suit? Those in favour suggest one-third of all 16-year-olds are mature enough to go to school and work in parttime jobs that put them on the tax rolls. The opposition says the 16-year-old mind is not sufficiently trained to cipher out fact from fiction when it comes to political campaigns.
Do 16-year-olds want to vote?
My 16-year-old self would have appreciated the offer but I can say with confidence that others in my grade would not have been excited by the prospect.
Rather than going full bore into federal and provincial elections, how about starting by allowing 16-year-old teens to vote in municipal elections. At that age they drive and understand pothole problems and know from listening to their parents that property taxes are too expensive.
If I were voting, I’d say start locally and judge the interest and turnout from there. By the time any proposed legislation is debated and passed, those 16-year-old teens will be 18 and eligible to vote without any hulla-ba- loo. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
Saved By the Moose Jaw Pothole Patrol
By Richard Dowson
I was driving south on 9th West, approaching the CNR tracks and, in anticipation of bouncing over the tracks and into the potholes, my butt cheeks clamped onto the car seat fabric like the jaws of a rabid coyote.
Then nothing! A City Pothole Patrol Repair Crew had filled the potholes.
Moose Jaw streets are in constant need of repair. It’s like the potholes are independent living organisms that puke out asphalt after a few weeks.
When they do, the Pothole Patrol comes to the rescue. Thanks!
Bean festival test proves selective hearing is bunk
With the weekend approaching my wife/ partner wanted to do something.
“Summer is half over and we haven’t done much,’’ she said.
“Anything in mind?’’ I asked.
“What about the bean festival at Riverhurst?’’
Bean festival, I thought. Well, bean cuisine might be the main attraction for me. How many dishes can you make with beans?
I agreed to go.
On arrival we noticed a trailer offering free hearing tests.
My partner urged me to take the test. “Wouldn’t hurt,” I thought.
The surprise news from the Saskatoon-based EHI Portable Hearing test operator was my hearing isn’t that bad “for your age.’’
My hearing at the tone levels of human voices is good. It falls off at higher tones.
“You don’t have selective hearing,’’ the tester said. Your hearing at those levels is good.’’
“There is no such thing as selective hearing,’’ he continued.
“There are two things in hearing. One is the ability to hear. The other is focus. If you’re focused on something you may not hear what is said.’’
I boasted to my partner that I do
not have selective hearing but she hears what she wants to hear.
The bean festival was cool with plenty of activities from 4-H gymkhana and horse show to mutton busting, reptile show, lots of food booths, farm machinery show, a large trade show with a dozen ag-related firms in this irrigation region and a range of booths from Communities in Bloom to bean crafts and
rockhound materials.
The car show with about 80 vehicles did a cruise to nearby Palliser Regional Park in mid afternoon.
Four groups entertained with Tilted Kilt closing the day.
Pee wee mutton busting attracted a large crowd with dozens of riders.
The first rider mounted her sheep, then loudly declared “I don’t wanna do this.’’ She left and another rode.
When one girl rider from a rodeo family was announced someone said “she should be good.’’
She was, hanging onto the wooly sheep for quite a while and taking second place.
Frank Reimer, president of Border Bean International, was among ag trade show exhibitors.
“We built this bean plant (at Altona, Manitoba) and we have to keep bean acres up to keep it going,” he said.
The plant processes beans from the Prairies and North Dakota.
Reimer estimated about 12,000 acres of pinto beans are grown around Riverhurst. “That’s most of these beans in Saskatchewan.
Some are grown around Outlook.‘’
Yours Truly recalled writing about the first beans grown around Riverhurst in the early 1990s when an Idaho grower promoted beans here as a crop. He even invented a device to improve harvest of low-lying beans.
Festival co-ordinator Terry Brennan estimated as many as 700 attended, one of the best crowds ever. “We don’t know how many. We don’t charge admission.’’
The festival draws residents from around the Diefenbaker Lake region.
Incidentally, the only bean cuisine was in the chili dogs.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Fallen, Photo by Ron Walter Bean harvester, Photo by Ron Walter
Neck Hold, Photo by Ron Walter
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
City council has officially approved Moose Jaw’s new stormwater utility bylaw, but not before receiving an earful of criticism from a homeowner frustrated with the bylaw’s seeming redundancy.
During its July 28 regular meeting, council gave unanimous approval to the bylaw during its third reading. This means more than 11,000 properties in Moose Jaw will begin paying a monthly fee of $9.80 to fund the city’s stormwater operations and infrastructure needs.
The new utility will generate $1.6 million annually for the municipality. The money is also expected to reduce general operating budget expenses by $326,000 and cut 0.75 per cent from the municipal tax hike.
The bylaw prohibits homes and businesses from making unauthorized discharges, with some prohibited substances including wastewater, liquids hotter than 65 Celsius, pesticides, solids greater than 12.5 millimetres, petroleum and chlorinated pool water, the bylaw says.
The bylaw says properties are mandated to connect to the stormwater system, especially buildings with a roof
area that is equal to or larger than 300 square metres or covers over 75 per cent of the site and parking lots that are over 1,200 square metres in size.
Property owners must connect within 60 days of receiving a notice or the municipality may connect the property at the owner’s expense, the document says.
While all properties must pay the monthly fee, exemptions include cityowned roads and streets, spur lines, the two cemeteries, community gardens and 114 recreation sites. However, agricultural lands will not be exempted; anyone who wants an exemption must submit a request in writing to the city manager.
With penalties, fines for breaching the bylaw range from $500 to $10,000, the bylaw adds. Also, the city may disconnect services for unpaid charges or bylaw violations with notice, while the city manager may enforce the collection of unpaid accounts.
Frustrated homeowner Council held a public hearing about the proposed bylaw at the start of the meeting, with resident Art King speaking against it.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
King — who also spoke in June — said he has a zero-landscape yard that featured rocks instead of grass. He said he took this approach because his grass usually washed away and plugged up the nearby catch basin. Instead, his 30 tons of rocks now remain firmly in place.
The homeowner repeated his previous points, saying he thought the new bylaw was redundant and a “cash cow.” Moreover, he thought council could have just increased the mill rate by half a percentage point to generate the money for stormwater infrastructure upgrades.
Continuing, King said parts of the bylaw were “redundant” because SaskWater already tests water for quality, pollution and aggregates. Similarly, he pointed out that Wakamow Valley Authority and other water authorities in the Qu’Appelle chain did similar testing.
“But this bylaw says to duplicate all those works. So I’m a little saddened,” he remarked.
King pointed out that the bylaw says aggregate materials should be no larger than 12.5 millimetres in size, equivalent to 1.2 centimetres or a half-inch in diameter. Yet, the chunks of asphalt filled the catch basin, which caused water to pool at that corner and a block south on Ominica Street West.
Meanwhile, “the saddest part,” King continued, was that he sent pictures of the plugged drain to Coun. Carla Delaurier, who allegedly told him that she would forward them to council and administration. He noted — with disbelief in his voice — that she allegedly told him that, after city hall called him about the situation, he should inform her of what the “repercussions” would be.
“Am I in favour of this bylaw? Absolutely not,” he added.
Council did not ask King any questions afterward, prompting him to remark that it was “a repeat of five weeks ago.”
King — who lives on Ninth Avenue Northwest — expressed further frustration with the “terrible job” that city crews did to replace a catch basin on Ninth and Athabasca Street West. He noted that they replaced a 40-square-foot area of asphalt that lasted four days. Afterward, the patch job produced chunks almost a foot square, or “as big as my hat.”
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
It’s not often that Moose Jaw’s Development Appeals Board turns down an application from a project proponent, but negative comments from nearby homeowners contributed to the rejection of a recent request.
The board (DAB) met on July 15 to hear from Daryl Duckworth at 3045 Caribou Street West, according to the meeting minutes.
The homeowner wants to construct in his rear yard a detached accessory storage building for cold storage that is 222.957 square metres (2,400 square feet), while his property is 1.297 hectares (3.2 acres) in the R5 acreage residential district, the report said.
His main one-unit dwelling is roughly 138.98 square metres (1,496 square feet), while the site also contains an accessory building that is roughly 92 square metres (990 square feet).
The report noted that the city denied Duckworth’s application because the proposed accessory building’s footprint of 314.97 square metres (3,390.28 square feet) exceeds the principal building’s footprint. Furthermore, the combined accessory building footprint cannot exceed that of the main dwelling.
Moreover, the combined accessory building footprint of the proposed structure would exceed the R5 district’s maximum combined accessory building footprint of 150 square metres (1,614.59), the report continued.
Duckworth told the board that he uses the current storage on his property to store personal belongings and not for business purposes.
Meanwhile, the existing garages are single-car spaces, with one converted into a workout room, the report said. However, the aging detached garage will be removed next year when Duckworth constructs a new home and other outbuildings.
Duckworth addressed concerns about the proposed accessory storage building being too close to a fire hydrant
Appeals board rejects property owner’s request to build massive storage building
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
and water line, saying the hydrant is non-functional and the structure would be away from the water line. He noted that RVs and trailers already on-site belong to family and neighbours and are temporary, while construction trailers are present because of a pool project.
“The appellant maintains that the new building would enhance property value and tax revenue without negatively impacting the neighbourhood,” the report stated.
A city representative told the board that the proposed project is a smaller version of what the city denied last year, although the proposed project is still 160 per cent larger than the principal building’s footprint and 226 per cent of the total combined accessory building footprint.
The rep added that he had no concerns about the water line, hydrant or drainage since the city could address those issues with a development permit.
Meanwhile, resident Rick Sieferling expressed concerns about the proposed building’s location and effect on his view and enjoyment of his property, the minutes showed. His driveway faces Duckworth’s backyard and the new structure would be closer to his front door than to his neighbour’s home.
Continuing, Sieferling said the R5 district is intended to preserve the “country residential character,” but Duckworth’s use of his property does not align with that intent, the report said.
He was also worried about Duckworth operating a construction business from the site, the proposed future home and possible snow accumulation affecting his driveway.
Resident Art Watson, whose home faces south to Duckworth’s, said the proposed development would negatively affect the “quiet, residential character” of the R5-zoned area. Moreover, he thought his neighbour was attempting to introduce commercial or industrial uses, which could lower property values and
“disrupt the peaceful environment.”
Watson pointed to Duckworth’s many garages and a newly poured concrete pad, which he thought would be used for construction-related business operations, the report said.
Watson also expressed concern about the obstruction of the fire hydrant, damage to the water line and disruption to natural drainage patterns. He also noted that the Saskatchewan Municipal Board and city hall previously denied a similar proposal from Duckworth in 2024 and thought those decisions should be respected.
Resident Terry Fox expressed concerns about the proposed building’s height and footprint, which he thought were not “reasonable” for an R5 residential zone. He also expressed opposition to the structure’s placement in the
southeast corner of the lot since it could cause snow drifts and affect drainage.
After considering the proposal, the board denied the appeal because:
Granting the appeal would be a special privilege since the structure’s proposed size is not close to the zoning requirements
Because of its size and potential use, the structure “would undermine the intent of the zoning bylaw” to maintain proportionality between the main building and accessory-use structures
Granting the appeal would injuriously affect neighbouring properties, while several nearby property owners were opposed
City council received the board’s minutes during the regular meeting on July 28 and approved them unanimously
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
City administration is proposing three locations for the new landfill, with one spot on city-owned land near the wastewater treatment plant and two spots on private rural land that could be acquired through annexation.
During its July 28 regular meeting, city council voted 3-2 to authorize administration to seek an exemption or amendment to the Moose Jaw Airport Zoning Regulations, 2002, to remove restrictions on land near the plant (WWTP).
Councillors Heather Eby, Chris Warren and Dawn Luhning were in favour, while councillors Carla Delaurier and Patrick Boyle were opposed. Meanwhile, Coun. Jamey Logan was absent and Mayor James Murdock recused himself because of a family-related conflict of interest.
Furthermore, council voted 5-0 to authorize administration to negotiate with the Rural Municipality of Moose Jaw to confirm that 16 pieces of land — known as “location 8” — north of the city be annexed and establish an alteration of boundaries agreement for those lands.
Also, council voted 4-1 to authorize administration to negotiate with the RM to confirm that 26 pieces of land — known as “location 7” — north of the city be annexed and establish an alteration of boundaries agreement for those lands.
Boyle was opposed.
Moreover, council voted 5-0 to have the negotiations include a land use and
Three locations for new landfill presented to Moose Jaw council
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
zoning framework and annexation compensation. However, if negotiations fail to “result in a complementary resolution,” administration can proceed with an application to the Saskatchewan Municipal Board for adjudication, including mediation, if required.
By the numbers
The current landfill is almost 100 years old, while city hall says it will run out of space by 2030. Administration wants to build a new solid waste management venue (SWMV) with a 75-year lifespan, but requires roughly 156.09 hectares (390.23 acres).
The concept design report shows the new landfill would have a capacity of 3.75 million tonnes or 6.25 million cubic metres of airspace, while the total operational lifespan cost would be $133 million.
Meanwhile, the council report showed that between 2021 and 2024, the landfill collected between 38,432 tonnes and 83,379 tonnes of waste, which generated between $2,983,456.17 and $5,477,741 in revenue for the city.
During the first six months of 2025, the data show that the landfill collected 19,302 tonnes of waste, with 74 per cent coming city residents.
Three possible locations
Administration identified areas surrounding the WWTP and lagoons “as the operational preference for a future solid waste facility,” but developing this area
has been limited due to a no-fly zone northeast of the plant, the report said.
There are operational advantages to putting the SWMV in this location, including access to existing stockpiled materials and efficient materials disposal, which could support future industrial development, the document continued.
However, from a development perspective, the city says the lands around the lagoons “are less desirable” than those located further north in the agrifood industrial park. So, the city will work with 15 Wing Airbase to revise the airport zoning regulations.
Also, the city does not need to annex this land since it is within city limits.
The city’s second priority location is “location 8” — adjacent to the land (location 7) officials originally wanted — and meets technical criteria and aligns with operational preferences, including location and proximity, the report said. This location is also supported by a traffic impact assessment.
Administration wants to annex locations 7 and 8.
The report noted that there are no financial implications for expropriating the lands or extra annexation costs. However, the city would have to pay the RM at least 15 times the current property taxes as “tax loss compensation.”
“This amount can be negotiated and structured as a phased payment over time to reduce the financial impact, depending on the final terms,” the report added.
Background
Municipal officials had hoped to construct the new landfill north of the city on agricultural land that the Truman Bailey family owned, but the RM rejected the discretionary use application in June 2024. This forced city hall to continue the search for a suitable site.
In June 2025, the mayor’s office contacted the Ministry of Environment about the city’s interest in exploring waste-to-energy initiatives and asked for a temporary extension at the current site
while the municipality explored alternative options, the report said.
However, the ministry said the current site is not suitable for expansion for several reasons and would only consider a “transitory expansion” to bridge the two projects, the document continued. The ministry also said it was exploring waste-to-energy initiatives and had not set a timeline to create a supporting framework.
Advice from a contractor
The city hired Wallace Insights Inc. to review the situation as part of an “impartial third-party perspective” and provide a memo about evaluating land options, recommending preferred sites based on the available data and outlining a path for land acquisition, the report said.
Wallace Insights said that the city developing a landfill rather than contracting out such services offered several benefits, including long-term cost control, owning the asset, controlling tipping fees and creating jobs, the report continued.
Furthermore, the contractor said the city should prioritize long-term cost implications of having a landfill over worries about short-term construction costs, the document continued. This is because in 25 years, operating costs would double the capital cost to build a new landfill.
“Therefore, strategies that enhance long-term affordability for taxpayers must be considered when determining the facility’s location,” the report stated.
To protect ratepayers and manage long-term operating costs, Wallace Insights recommended that city hall find a city-owned location near industrialzoned lands to enable future diversion initiatives and minimize garbage collection costs like fuel consumption and travel time. Also, the city should explore diversion opportunities to preserve the new landfill’s airspace.
MooseJawToday.com will feature comments from council in a separate article.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
City council agrees that time is running out to find a location for a new landfill, but members disagree on where the new venue should be located.
City administration presented three possible locations during the July 28 regular meeting, with one potential spot near the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) south of Moose Jaw and two spots north on rural land.
One rural location is the same spot that administration wanted last year but was unable to acquire after the Rural Municipality of Moose Jaw denied the city’s discretionary use application.
Council heard during the meeting that the current landfill’s airspace is expected to be full by about 2030, while it may take six to nine months to negotiate boundary alterations with the RM successfully. If those negotiations fail, then it may take 12 to 18 months to complete a boundary alteration agreement through the province.
“We’re up against the clock,” Coun. Patrick Boyle said.
Boyle acknowledged that this was
‘No
good options’: Council discusses location for new landfill
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
a difficult decision, but said he preferred one of the rural locations because it was adjacent to Highway 2 and close to the city.
He opposed the location near the WWTP since he didn’t want people trucking waste through Wakamow Valley and possibly dumping it there. Moreover, the province had just fixed Highway 2 south’s sloping issues and he didn’t want more heavy trucks on it.
Furthermore, there was uncertainty about whether Ottawa would keep a runway at 15 Wing permanently closed, which created uncertainty with the nearby no-fly zone, he said. Also, the city had tried and failed to acquire a second rural location and should drop its pursuit of that spot.
“We’re between a rock and a hard place … ,” Boyle said. “There are no real good options here, but we can’t go without a landfill here in Moose Jaw. Otherwise, we will have to truck the material to Regina and that will not be wonderful for ratepayers here.”
Boyle also asked administration
whether it had discussed creating a regional landfill and whether it was financially feasible to develop a venue that converted waste into energy.
City manager Maryse Carmichael replied that after the RM denied the city’s application last year, administration met with the four surrounding RMs to inform them about the landfill project. During that conversation, a discussion occurred about creating a regionally operated landfill.
“Many steps are needed for that to come into play,” she added. “The issue now is, because we are so tight on time, having this as another option would probably create a longer path than what is recommended.”
Bevan Harlton, director of operations, said a new landfill was required before Moose Jaw could consider wasteto-energy technology. He noted that studies show that technology created 4,000 tonnes to 12,000 tonnes of ash byproduct, which needed to be stored somewhere.
Carmichael pointed out that such technology also needs to burn 100,000 to
150,000 tonnes annually to be cost-effective, while Moose Jaw produces around 40,000 tonnes annually. Also, waste-toenergy technology works well in cities with over 300,000 people.
Coun. Chris Warren said discussions about a new landfill began when he joined council in 2016, while the venue is now “on the cusp” of shutting down. Meanwhile, he said that while he appreciated the waste-to-energy technology idea, he wasn’t interested in pursuing it because there would be a “significant cost” to the community.
“I know (choosing a location is) not a decision that anyone wants to make, but the reality is, it’s something that takes us into the future 75 years,” he said. “So these discussions only come around once every century or so.”
Moose Jaw is three years away from running out of airspace at the landfill, and if the city has no venue by then, it will incur major expenses to truck waste elsewhere, he added. Also, the three suggested locations are viable and would meet the community’s needs.
Zoning change will let South Hill business owner upgrade home
A businessman who wants to add a second suite to a one-unit home on South Hill can now do so after city council changed the zoning bylaw to accommodate the request.
During its recent regular meeting, council gave three unanimous readings to a zoning bylaw amendment, which will allow Jared Videgain, owner of Unified Canadian Construction Ltd., to add another suite to 453 Lillooet Street West.
The home is in the C2 high-density commercial district, where one-unit dwellings are considered discretionary use. The zoning bylaw initially did not list secondary suites as either a permitted or a discretionary use, so the suites were prohibited.
The bylaw update will add secondary suites as permitted uses in the C2 district and a parking requirement of one space per dwelling unit for secondary
suites to the commercial districts’ parking requirement table, a council report said. This will mirror the existing requirement for such suites in residential districts.
The council report said that city hall advertised the bylaw amendment twice in the Moose Jaw Express newspaper, on the city’s website, through a paper copy at city hall and through direct mail to 895 properties within 90 metres of the C2 district. However, no one provided any comment.
Videgain told council in June that he was open to any amendment that would allow him to add a secondary suite to the building. He said he bought the location months ago with the idea of installing a secondary suite. However, he “messed up” and failed to check the building’s zoning.
business sign from the front, Videgain said that the sign is his since he is a general contractor. He said customers don’t come to the property, but instead, call him about adding an addition to their home or installing a kitchen or bathroom.
The businessman said he wanted to make this addition because the provin-
cial government was giving out $30,000 grants to people who spent $100,000 to install secondary suites — the main reason for this project.
Videgain added that keeping the building in the C2 district is ideal since that would let him install a garage where he could build cabinets.
Asked if he planned to remove a
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
With residents using pathways and spray parks regularly in the summer, city council is curious about whether city hall can upgrade those infrastructure items to better meet people’s needs.
During council’s recent regular meeting, Coun. Dawn Luhning told city administration that she sees residents walking regularly on High Street West on a dirt path from Yara Centre to Ninth Avenue Northwest. She then wondered whether administration had plans to connect that path to the main network.
Furthermore, she said there are pathways near the intersection of Main Street and Thatcher Drive, but there is no way
Upgrading pathways and spray parks of interest to councillors
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for people to cross from the north side to reach businesses on the south side.
Specifically, Luhning said friends stayed with her recently who wanted to play basketball at the Golden Ticket Sports Centre. However, they were unable to reach the building because there were no crosswalks and medians blocked their path. She then wondered if city hall planned to address that through the transportation master plan.
Bevan Harlton, director of operations, said connecting the gap between Yara Centre and Ninth Avenue Northwest is “absolutely on the radar” and something his department plans to ad-
dress.
He pointed out that the trails master plan identified the High Street West dirt path as a gap in the network, while the engineering branch is conducting corridor studies at several locations throughout the city and looking at a cycling network, both of which could connect that gap.
Harlton added that with the issue of crossing Thatcher to reach the Golden Ticket venue, that location “warrants a discussion,” while his department will determine how to prioritize an upgrade there.
Meanwhile, Coun. Carla Delau-
rier said a resident contacted her about spray parks and asked whether the city could open them earlier than 10 a.m. She noted that parents with young children are usually awake well before that time and would like to use those venues, so she hoped the city could open at least one spray park earlier.
City manager Maryse Carmichael said that the query is something the administration can review for next year, since changing the hours of spray parks would affect the budget and increase water consumption. She added that the administration will respond to the resident’s inquiry.
Homeowners can pursue garage-related projects despite zoning issues
Two homeowners who want to pursue projects related to their garages on their properties can proceed with their projects even though the initiatives are contrary to the zoning bylaw.
The Development Appeals Board met on July 15 and reviewed applications from Tim McLean of 1264 Third Avenue Northeast and Larry Sentes of 1127 Connaught Avenue.
McLean wants to construct a detached garage with a height of 5.49 metres (18 feet), while Sentes wants to add another structure to his detached garage.
The board’s report explained that McLean’s property is roughly 580.80
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square metres (6,251.64 square feet) in the R1 district, while his principal dwelling is roughly 4.88 metres (16 feet) high.
Continuing, the report said the city initially denied the homeowner’s development permit because the proposed accessory building would contravene the maximum accessory building height in the R1 district of 4.5 metres (14.76 feet).
The document noted that McLean made a similar appeal in October 2023, but the board upheld the city’s denial decision. Therefore, the board agreed that this request was considered “de novo” or new or fresh.
After considering the proposal, the
board approved the appeal because:
• It would not be a special privilege since the board would grant a similar appeal in the same district; it made such decisions in 2023 and 2024
• It would not be a relaxation of the zoning bylaw since it would not hinder the health, safety or general welfare of the community, nor would it “defeat or be offensive” to the provision that McLean was seeking to avoid
• It would not injuriously affect the neighbouring properties because no one within 75 metres complained about it and there was no evidence that it would result in an unreasonable interference or cause damage or harm
Meanwhile, the board report said that Sentes’ property is a residential lot that is roughly 627.2 square metres (6,571.10 square feet) in the R1 district, while his one-unit dwelling is 400.81 square metres (1,315 square feet) and the backyard is 250.54 square metres (2,696.79 square feet).
Continuing, the report said the homeowner is proposing to add onto his detached garage, which would add 3.66
metres (12 feet) to the north side of the garage and result in a rear-yard coverage of 36.38 per cent. This coverage would be greater than the 35 per cent — or 87.69 square metres (943.89 square feet) — that the zoning bylaw allows.
Moreover, the enlarged garage would cover 93.65 square metres (1,008 square feet), resulting in a combined accessory building footprint greater than the permitted maximum footprint in the R1 district of 83.61 square metres (900 square feet), the document said.
The board heard that the property has access to the rear lane, while the proposed development would not have overhead doors on that side, according to the meeting minutes. Also, the proponent pointed out that the two-per-cent difference in rear-yard coverage is within the range of variances that the board has approved for other districts in the past.
After considering the proposal, the board approved the appeal using the same reasoning as its decision for McLean.
City council received the appeals board’s minutes during its regular meeting on July 28 and approved them unanimously.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE
NEXT
REGULAR COUNCIL
MEETING IS MONDAY, AUG 11
Separate pieces of land on River Street West will soon become two large lots, as developers of the proposed Hilton Hotel project continue to push forward with their project.
During its July 28 regular meeting, city council voted 5-0 to approve River Street Development Corp.’s plan of proposed subdivision for 76 River Street West and 48 River Street West, as long as the subdivision review process concludes without any negative comments from nearby landowners.
The plan includes the surface consolidation of several parcels and lots and the removal of a connection to other parcels.
Once city hall is satisfied that the company meets the review process condition, the mayor and city clerk will sign the certificate of approval.
Mayor James Murdock did not vote and excused himself from the room because he has financial connections to the corporation. Also, Coun. Jamey Logan was absent.
Consolidation of River Street properties to support hotel project
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A council report said the corporation is proposing to subdivide and consolidate a portion of a street parcel with adjacent lots to create one new, larger lot totalling 0.35 hectares (0.86 acres) on the north side. The remainder of the parcel will be consolidated with the existing street parcel located on the westerly portion of River Street West.
Also, the company has requested the removal of a connection between two parcels that will result in a standalone lot on the south side of River Street West, totalling 0.203 hectares (0.5 acres), the report continued.
The affected lands are vacant and have been temporarily used for event parking, while the subdivision request will correct the legal lot lines, so they align with the existing physical layout, the report said.
The hotel project complies with the Official Community Plan, while the property is zoned as high-density commercial and is within the heritage overlay district, said the report. The zoning
accommodates a wide range of commercial, institutional and residential uses in a high-density form.
Furthermore, the intended use of the newly proposed lot D — a hotel — is permitted within the C2 district, and both the proposed lot and existing parcel meet the minimum site frontage requirements of 7.5 metres and site area of 230 square metres, the document continued.
The report added that the corporation has paid the subdivision application fee of $840.
Background info
This is not the first time council has approved changes to River Street West as part of this proposed project.
During its July 14 regular meeting, city council gave three unanimous readings to Bylaw No. 5739, street closure bylaw, which closed all of block/parcel S1, Plan 102065532, Extension 0. This facilitated the subdivision, sale and consolidation of the street and returned it to the original adjoining parcels; the land — lots 32 to 34 — is not required for traffic.
River Street Development Corp. purchased a chunk of the 0 block of River Street West on the north side for $1. This “bulb out,” as city administration described it, is 0.024 hectares (0.06 acres) in size and was originally intended as a turnaround for a previous hotel development that never materialized.
The municipality had no use for the parcel, which was not used as a road and served no function. The corporation acquired some of the land, while a portion of the road will remain as part of River Street, vested with the Crown, and the city will confirm the final boundaries through a legal survey.
Also, the city will preserve or protect any utilities through registered easements.
Also, in March 2024, council approved administration’s application to subdivide the west 150 feet of the 0 block of River Street West from the corporation’s adjacent property and pay the company $290,000.
Fifteen years ago shares in the Northwest Company were trading at $18.17.
Recently they traded at $48.12 — a gain of 264 per cent. That merits investor attention.
Aside from great value creation the Northwest Company represents a piece of Canadian history.
The Winnipeg-based company was once part of the Hudson Bay Company trading network, known as the Northern Stores.
In 1987, employees bought the Northern Stores division from the Bay. The operation went public in the early 2000s.
The Northwest Company has grown with 13 acquisitions and expanded markets since 2007. The company policy seems to try and serve all the needs of customers.
That policy has led to acquisition of an airline, new stores in the northern parts of the Prairies as well in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, Alaska, the Caribbean and South Pacific.
Thunder Bay based North Air has 17 aircraft and flies routes connecting northern Ontario communities.
Stores of about 7,500 square feet are in communities with population from 500 to 8,000. Often they are the only store in town and offer fast food, postal service, and money transfers.
Five Giant Tiger stores are owned by Northwest. The company took on the buildout of Giant Tiger in 2012 with the master franchise for the West. They kept five Giant Tiger outlets after selling the rest.
About three-quarters of sales are food with about 22 per cent general
merchandise.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Operations include fast food, wholesaling food, two dealerships for Honda and snowmobiles, three pharmacies and some wellness centres.
The return on equity, a key measure of profit, was 18.59 per cent in 2024 and has been as high as 25 per cent
Long-term debt of $295 million sits at a reasonable 37 per cent of shareholder equity.
The dividend has grown frequently, now yielding 3.3 per cent.
Market expansion and acquisitions have built a steadily growing operation. The question for investors is what will the future bring?
The future looks bright with development and population growth of the north’s resources
A second potential catalyst for growth will arise from the federal interest in protecting Canada’s north with more military supports and infrastructure to allow development
All this, if it occurs, means larger populations to serve, and increased sales.
The eventual growth in the north could be the company’s downside as new competition arrives.
The stock trades at 17 times earnings, not bad compared to the return on equity,
Three analysts following Northwest rate it from a low price target of $59.40 to a high of $63. If the high target is achieved that would be a 31 per cent gain.
Moose Jaw has hired a new chief of police
Moose Jaw’s Board of Police Commissioners has hired a new chief of police.
The board introduced Robert Davis during a ceremony in council chambers on July 28. Some dignitaries in attendance included Acting Chief Rick Johns, Moose Jaw North MLA Tim McLeod, other senior police executives and leadership from 15 Wing Airbase.
Davis — who took no questions from the media — gave a prepared statement and thanked the board for the opportunity. He also thanked Johns for the relationships he had developed throughout his career in Saskatchewan and the community.
Continuing, the new chief said he looked forward to working with the deputy chief and using the latter’s “incredibly valuable” connections when he began on Friday, Aug. 29.
“I want to reaffirm my commitment to the department to building new relationships and listening to the voices of the community,” Davis said. “I am also dedicated to working collaboratively to help ensure Moose Jaw remains a safe and welcoming place for all.”
Before his interview with the board, Davis said he toured the city to acquire a feel for it. He noted that it was “incredibly inspiring” to see “such incredible civic pride, incredible community spirit and a shared vision for continued growth and progress coming from the citizens and leadership” at city hall.
“I am both humbled and honoured to be given the opportunity to serve such a proud and vibrant city … ,” he added. “I am very excited about the upcoming move and to starting my duties and to calling Moose Jaw home … .”
Davis’ formal swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for September, which is
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when he is expected to take questions from reporters.
A news release from the Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) says Davis has 34 years of policing experience, with his most recent posting as police chief in Brantford, Ont., where he served for 13 years. Furthermore, he is known for his commitment to community engagement, listening to concerns, identifying challenges and working to build safer communities.
Furthermore, the release said Davis is innovative, a forward-thinking leader, dedicated to “serving with integrity and transparency,” and committed to employee wellness and modern policing strategies.
Information from the Brantford Expositor news website shows he resigned from Brantford’s police service on June 21, 2024, after starting in 2019, and was “moving on to other opportunities where he will continue to positively impact public safety.”
Before working in Brantford, Davis was the police chief in Lethbridge, Alta., where he worked from January 2015 to September 2019, according to Global News. The news outlet reported that he pursued the chief’s position in the southern Ontario community because he is from that region.
Meanwhile, an article from the Expositor in February 2024 said Davis left Lethbridge under “a cloud,” as some blamed him for taking the police service to the brink of being decommissioned by the province. Furthermore, the head of the Lethbridge police union called his four-year tenure “a disaster” and a “morale crisis.”
Continuing, the Expositor article said more than “half of the Lethbridge officers responding to a police union survey said they thought Davis bullied officers and staff.” Also, the article reported that, in 2022, Davis said such complaints often come from groups resistant to change and that he wasn’t trying to have everyone “like” him.
During the ceremony, reporters asked about Davis’ time in Lethbridge and whether the board had considered
the allegations.
Mayor James Murdock, the board chairman, said the board reviewed Davis’ history during the vetting process and discussed his history. Furthermore, while negative stories may follow people, there are also “very good ones” out there.
“Those communiqués were held (with) personnel from Lethbridge and we felt very comfortable with the feedback we were getting,” the mayor remarked.
During the ceremony, Commissioner Patrick Boyle discussed the fourmonth hiring process, saying the board wanted someone who had “the depth and breadth” of expertise, could collaborate and was committed to public service.
Continuing, Boyle said Davis stood out during the search process, particularly because of his “impressive expertise” and values of integrity, accountability, transparency and collaboration.
“We look forward to him being deeply committed with that purpose and passion (and) that sense of duty, not just to the police but to the people of Moose Jaw,” he added.
Dignitaries gather in council chambers to welcome Robert Davis as the new chief of police in Moose Jaw. In front, from left, are Mayor James Murdock, chairman of the police board; new Chief Robert Davis; Acting Chief/Deputy Chief Rick Johns; and the Hon. Tim McLeod, MLA. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Robert Davis, the new police chief of Moose Jaw, says a few words after being introduced as the new police chief. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
New nurse position to enhance youth health services at HOMEBASE Moose Jaw
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
The next time youths visit HOMEBASE Moose Jaw, a registered nurse could conduct health assessments, help manage health conditions, promote health literacy and offer connections to community and clinical services.
The addition of a part-time nurse to the youth hub location is happening through a new partnership between the YMCA of Regina — it operates the four provincial HOMEBASE venues, which are part of the province’s integrated youth services initiative (IYS) — and Medavie Health Services (MHS).
Medavie will support the hub by providing an RN, who will work with Regina-based The Nest Health Centre to deliver health services that align with the program’s core principles and services. Moreover, the RN and Nest will ensure youths receive timely, culturally responsive and age-friendly care.
Meanwhile, Nest will provide physician services and medical support to the four HOMEBASE locations.
HOMEBASE Moose Jaw is one of four provincial IYS youth hubs, which the Government of Saskatchewan supported by providing $4.5 million. The YMCA is leading the initiative, with provincial leadership through the John Howard Society of Saskatchewan.
Meanwhile, the IYS model is designed to be a one-stop hub that integrates mental health and addictions services, physical health services, education, employment and training supports, cultural and traditional supports, and social and community supports for youths aged 12 to 25, along with their caregivers.
“This partnership is a model of how we can really re-imagine health care today,” said Angela Sereda, MHS’s senior operations manager. “The more supports that we can provide in the community, (the more they) can really impact the youth and adults in the communities that we serve.”
Medavie has worked with the YMCA before, and through its community paramedic program, it works closely with youths and adults experiencing substance use and challenges, she said.
This newest partnership “is a really
good fit,” especially since community paramedics already conduct daily walkthroughs of the HOMEBASE locations to build relationships with youths so the latter feel comfortable accessing medical resources, Sereda continued.
Sereda noted that community collaboration and supporting the health-care system are important, while this partnership is exciting since it could be integrated into “the fabric of our communities.” Moreover, it would make it easier for youths to access the care they require.
This partnership may be new to Saskatchewan, but Medavie has been pursuing something similar across Canada for years because of its commitment to health care and mission to improve Canadians’ health, Sereda added.
Steve Compton, CEO of the YMCA, said the organization is excited about this new development at HOMEBASE Moose Jaw. He pointed out that the Y knew there were potential community partnerships in Moose Jaw when it opened the hub, while others — such as MHS — also recognized those opportunities.
“And Medavie, by providing the RN support, is very appreciated, because we all know the competition for health-care resources,” he remarked. “And we’re very fortunate that Medavie partnered with the YMCA.”
An on-site registered nurse will benefit youths who drop in unexpectedly looking for help, said Compton. Doctors from The Nest are present throughout the week, so an RN will support that work and ensure someone is available during non-traditional office hours — specifically, in the evenings.
Meanwhile, Compton said HOMEBASE Moose Jaw is doing “really well” since it opened in November 2024. Staff informed both school divisions about the services the hub offers, which has led to more youths using the venue’s services and programs because a level of trust has developed.
To learn more, email Homebase@ Regina.YMCA.ca, call 306-694-5554, visit HomebaseSask.ca, or follow ‘HOMEBASE Moose Jaw’ on Facebook.
Second annual Fun Friday Quilter’s show stitches together memories, colour, community
The XYZ Auditorium at the Timothy Eaton Centre was transformed into a vibrant patchwork of colour and creativity on July 30, as the Fun Friday Quilters hosted their second annual quilting show — a display of both artistic skill and the joy of shared tradition.
With 75 quilted items on display — ranging from full-size bedspreads to table runners and wall hangings — the show offered visitors a glimpse into the work and passion of 12 local quilters who gather weekly at the venue.
“We sew here every Friday,” said group member Terri Florkiewicz. “We’ve got a little room over there that they (Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens’ Association (MJDSCA)) let us have, and we sew in there. As a thank you, we put on a quilt show, and any money that we raise goes towards the centre.”
Funds raised through this year’s show will support a major kitchen upgrade at the Timothy Eaton Centre — a project that includes the purchase of commercial-grade appliances such as freezers and a cooler. The event raised $637.40 for the centre.
From classic blocks to contemporary colour palettes, each item in the show reflected personal stories and time spent together in quiet stitching or friendly conversation.
“It’s just a group of people getting together and just doing the thing we love,” said Florkiewicz. “Some bring their own sewing machine to sew. Some
created. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
just do hand sewing. Sometimes, if I don’t want to quilt (that day), I’ll bring my knitting.”
Although some of the pieces were sewn in the past year, others came with deep family history. One lady, Adrienne Forsyth, exhibited quilted heirloom pieces passed down through generations. Lizanne Knox-Beam made one particular quilt, “Remembering Gerry,” to remember her husband by incorporating portions of his shirts and fabrics with the things he liked. Colleen Lawrence made a quilt for each of her grandsons to celebrate their graduations.
One quilter, Susan Kalcsits, brought 14 items to the show, and Florkiewicz
Three quilts, all created from the same
how
and
brought 10.
“Some were just made in the last year, and some are a little older,” Florkiewicz said. “We have a few new members, so a lot of their quilts are out because we haven’t seen (a large sample of their work yet).”
The show’s second year featured fewer items than its debut, but many were larger in scale to balance things out.
“Last year we had a lot more smaller items … we had 100 items last year,” said Florkiewicz. “The quilts are bigger this year, so of course they’re also taking up a lot more space.”
As for the future of the Fun Friday
Two graduation quilts feature the “Oh My Stars” pattern by designer Pat Sloan, customized with personal touches for two grandsons. Hand appliqué by Susan Noren; machine quilting by Colleen Lawrence.
Quilters, plans are already in the works for another show in 2026 — depending, of course, on how prolific the group can be.
“We do have three (new) members, and one lady said she may be joining us as well,” she said. “So that’ll be four new members and nobody has seen their quilts. We’ll make sure they get a lot of space for the next show.”
Although most quilts were sewn in the past year, others were gifted to friends or family long ago — lovingly retrieved for a moment in the spotlight. As Florkiewicz put it with a laugh, “Some people are going, ‘Hey, you know that quilt I gave you? Can you bring that back? I got to put it in a show.’”
The Fun Friday Quilters meet at the Timothy Eaton Centre at 510 Main Street North on Fridays. Anyone can stop by to learn more or contact the centre at 306-694-4223.
A hand-sewn page from Heather Grover’s quilted book, created as part of a 12-month word challenge. This panel, inspired by the word “weaving,” features hand-cut flowers and intricate details. The book was started in 2017 and finished in 2019. Photo by:
This memory quilt, titled “Remembering Gerry,” was made and quilted by Lizanne Knox-Beam using her late husband’s shirts and themed fabrics that reflect his interests. “It reminds me of him every time I use it,” she said.
Eight members of the Fun Friday Quilters pose during their annual show at the Timothy Eaton Centre on July 30, proudly sporting new sewing-themed T-shirts. Terri Florkiewicz, one of the group’s founding members, stands back row, left. Photo by: Aaron Walker
A close-up of “Family,” the 142nd quilt made by Donna J. Olson and gifted to her niece, Adrienne Forsyth, in May 2025. Olson designed, pieced, machine embroidered, and quilted the piece — one of more than 300 she’s
Sharon Blackmore pattern, showcase
colour choice
quilting technique can dramatically shift a quilt’s look and feel. Piecing by Susan Kalcsits; quilting by Lois Gagnon; completed March 2025. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Aaron Walker
Adam Butler Junior Golf Tournament tees off with 100 junior players at Hillcrest
Under sunlit skies and the watchful eyes of proud parents, volunteers, and organizers, 100 young golfers teed off at the Hillcrest Golf Club on July 31 for the inaugural Adam Butler Junior Golf Tournament — a free, fun-first event designed to honour the memory of a beloved Moose Jaw resident.
Hosted by the Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation, the tournament marked the group’s first major initiative to make the sport more accessible to local youth.
“At today’s tournament, we had 100 kids (and) 100 parents also coming up to chaperone … we had lots of gift givers, people working our reception desk, and lots of volunteers. We really, really appreciate that,” said Blake Butler, Adam’s brother and co-chair of the Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation. “There were lots of smiles today, and the kids had a blast.”
The tournament’s top performer was Kingston MacLeod, who shot a 77
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Hole sponsors ensured every child left with swag or a prize, while sponsorship funds are set to help build a scholarship fund for junior golfers. The event’s title sponsors were Moose Jaw Co-op and the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club.
“We know Adam would be looking down on us and saying, ‘Great job to all the kids, and thank you to everyone who participated,’” Blake said, adding that his brother would be proud.
to earn the day’s lowest score — part of a broader, light-hearted award presentation that focused more on participation than competition. Golf bags, push carts, and junior memberships were also handed out as part of the final celebration.
Adam Dowling, co-chair of the foundation, said awards were given to the lowest three scores from each age group and described the inaugural event as “a great success.”
“It’s not even about the score,” he said. “It’s just about getting kids together and creating a really positive experience for them. Winners, losers — it doesn’t matter. The whole point of golf is just to go out and create that social aspect.”
The event reached its 100-participant goal and had more than 50 kids on the waitlist, prompting organizers to confidently announce its return next summer. The tournament was open to kids aged six to 16 and prioritized fun over form, with support available for those who needed gear or guidance.
“The whole reason behind today
was highlighted when you saw the kids’ faces — from the bags of chips to the belts to the prize bags … it really drove home what they’re really trying to promote, and that is getting kids out on a golf course with no boundaries,” said Jasmine Cameron, general manager at Hillcrest.
“If they needed support getting here, we would get them here,” she continued. “We supplied all the equipment for them.”
For many of the young golfers, the cause — and the fun — hit close to home.
“Today was really fun,” said Brek, a young golfer in the tournament. “This is for my cousin who has cancer, and for kids who can’t afford to golf. Every year we’re going to do it because it’s for our cousin.”
To learn more, visit AdamButlerJGF.com or follow the foundation on Facebook and Instagram at “Adam Butler Junior Golf Foundation.”
The Hillcrest Golf Course is located at 1599 Main Street North.
A group of participants gather after the tournament at Hillcrest Golf Club, including Brek (centre), one of 100 young golfers who took part in the inaugural Adam Butler Junior Golf Tournament.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Young golfers stop at a sponsored station during the inaugural Adam Butler Junior Golf Tournament on July 31 at Hillcrest Golf Club. Event sponsors gave away free swag at every hole throughout the day.
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Thomas Soto sets WCBL runs record as Miller Express reach end of regular season
Veteran infielder sets new mark of 70 with three-run outing against Swift Current on Friday, Miller Express sweep three weekend games against 57’s Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
It was a record-setting night on Friday in the Western Canadian Baseball League, but not the one most onlookers were expecting.
With most WCBL watchers expecting to see the Saskatoon Berries set the single season wins mark, Moose Jaw MIller Express infielder Thomas Soto scored three runs in Moose Jaw’s 16-1 win over the Swift Current 57’s, setting a new single season mark of 70 runs scored.
The record had been previously held by another Miller Express player, with Zach Campbell having scored 69 runs in the 2022 campaign.
Moose Jaw had a good weekend in general against the last-place 57’s, following up Friday’s win with an 8-7 victory on Saturday and 16-8 win on Sunday.
The Express (26-29) have one game remaining on their regular season schedule and are in Regina on Monday night.
From there, it’s off to the playoffs, where they’ll face the Saskatoon Berries in the first round. While the postseason schedule hasn’t been officially released, they’ll host Saskatoon in Game 2 on Thursday night at Ross Wells Park.
Moose Jaw 16, Swift Current 1 Soto came into the game needing
three runs to claim the record outright, and he’d get his first in the third inning, hitting a single and coming around to score on an Austin Gurney base hit. Soto and Gurney connected again on the record-tying run in the fifth inning, with Soto hitting a lead-off single and Gurney knocking him home two batters later.
That set the stage for the sixth inning, where Soto recorded his third hit
of the game, stole second, went to third on a WilEdwards ground out and crossed the plate on a sacrifice fly by -- who else -- Gurney.
While Soto was etching his name in the record books, Miller Express pitcher Westin Walls went to work on what was far and away his best start of the season.
their way to a comeback when the skies opened up at Ross Wells Park.
Moose Jaw had scored five runs in the second, two more in the third and another in the fourth for an 8-1 lead heading into the fifth, but Swift Current would almost tie things up with six runs in the fifth. That’s when the rains came, and the contest was eventually called.
Eduardo Saenz hit a solo home run for Moose Jaw, giving him eight on the season, one behind team leader Edwards, who finished 2-for-3 with a run and RBI. Pacey Philips crossed the plate twice.
Jacob Glazener was the winning pitcher, allowing seven runs on 11 hits while going five innings, striking out six and walking three.
\Moose Jaw 16, Swift Current 8
The Express looked to be in a bit of trouble after Swift Current scored six in the fifth and responded to Moose Jaw’s four the next inning with two more of their own, taking an 8-6 lead That all changed in the eighth, though, when Moose Jaw put up nine runs to pull away for good.
The senior hurler tossed an absolute gem, recording a complete game win while allowing only two hits, striking out 10 and walking four. He faced only three batters over the minimum and threw 71 of his 107 pitches for strikes.
Ben Waliczek led Moose Jaw’s offence with a 2-for-4 night that included three runs scored and a grand slam home run in the eighth. The round-tripper was Waliczek’s first of the season. Eduardo Saenz and Andy Rivas each had a pair of hits and three RBI.
Moose Jaw 8, Swift Current 7
The Miller Express were likely happy Mother Nature saw to it their game would end early, as the 57’s were on
Pacey Phillips had the big hit in the big inning, hitting a grand slam and finishing 2-for-4 on the afternoon with a run scored. Edwards also had a solid night, going 5-for-6 with two doubles and three runs scored. Ben Waliczek crossed the plate three times.
Edwards’ showing was especially meaningful, as he now has 22 doubles on the season and is one off the WCBL single-season record of 23.
Moose Jaw used six pitchers on the night, with Joe Gutierrez getting the start and holding the 57’s without a hit through four innings. Jordan Bauer eventually secured the win, allowing only two hits while pitching 2 ⅔ innings late in the game.
Moose Jaw Miller Express veteran Thomas Soto set the single-season runs record on Friday night against Swift Current.
Moose Jaw All Stars winless through five games at Canadian Little League Championship
Prairies representatives fall 14-2 to Ontario in opener Tuesday, drop 16-0 decision to host Layritz on Wednesday, lose 12-2 to Alberta Friday, edged 10-7 by Atlantic Saturday, fall 8-2 to Quebec on Sunday Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Moose Jaw All Stars knew they were in for some exceptionally tough competition at the Canadian Little League Championship this week, and that’s exactly what they’ve found.
The All Stars found themselves sitting with an 0-5 record heading into their final game at the tournament in Victoria, B.C., having lost 14-2 to Ontario on Tuesday, 16-0 to host Layritz on Wednesday, 12-2 to Alberta on Friday, 10-7 to Atlantic on Saturday and 8-2 to Quebec on Sunday.
Moose Jaw wraps up their appearance at the event against B.C.’s Little Mountain at 11:30 a.m. on Monday.
Action from the Moose Jaw All Stars opening game against Ontario representative High Park on Tuesday afternoon. Layritz Little League
The Moose Jaw All Stars fell to 0-5 at the Canadian Little League Championship with a loss to Quebec on Sunday. Facebook
U15 AAA Canucks End Season 31 - 1 - Photo Story
On July 24th, Thursday evening saw the Moose Jaw U15 AAA Canucks finish the regular 32 game season with a 7 - 4 victory over the visiting Regina Wolfpack.
by Robert Thomas
The first inning saw the Wolfpack take a 1 - 0 lead but the Canucks took the lead for the remainder of the game with a two run second inning.
The game saw Canucks head coach
The win gave the Canucks a near perfect regular season record after losing to the Regina Athletics the evening prior.
Craig Flanagan deploy numerous pitchers to the mound.
The Wolfpack challenged in the sixth inning scoring two runs with the bases loaded. But the third out came right after the bases were loaded extinguishing the threat.
Here are some photos from the Canucks’ final regular season game. https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2025/7/24/ttyrbt8nok7ncecklp55kzctgkf7w0
CANUCKS BASE RUNNER LUCAS LIND IS SAFE AT THIRD BASE - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
HEAD COACH CRAIG FLANAGAN WATCHES THE ACTION IN THE SIXTH INNING - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
LUCAS LIND (RIGHT) WITH HIS GREASE PAINT SITS BESIDES NEAL KOHL AT THE CANUCKS BENCH - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
CANUCKS COHEN SYMAK WARMS UP WHILE ON DECK TO BAT - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
ONE OF THE SEVERAL PITCHERS USED BY THE CANUCKS KAIDEN GADD LETS LOOSE A PITCH - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
CANUCKS BASE RUNNER COHEN SYMAK CROSSES HOME PLATE SCORING A RUNMJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO A CHAT ON THE MOUND - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
CANUCKS’ TAYLOR USHER JUST BEATS THE THROW TO FIRST BASE - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO SLIDING IN SUCCESSFULLY STEALING SECOND BASE - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
THE FINAL REGULAR SEASON HANDSHAKE - MJ INDEPENDENT PHOTO
Moose Jaw Canucks fall to Sask Five Giants in Baseball Sask 15U AAA provincial championship final
Giants take 6-4 victory in gold medal game, will represent Saskatchewan at Art Berard Western Canadian Championship in Saskatoon Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The most successful season in recent Moose Jaw baseball history came to a disappointing end this past weekend in Saskatoon.
The Moose Jaw Canucks reached the gold medal game at the Baseball Saskatchewan 15U AAA provincial championship on Sunday afternoon but would drop a 6-4 decision to the Sask Five Giants.
Moose Jaw came into the tournament as the definitive top seed after putting together a 31-1 record in the Sask Premier Baseball League regular season, but after their opening game at provincials, it became apparent winning it all wasn’t going to be a walk in the park.
RADON GAS CAUSES LUNG CANCER
The Canucks opened the event on Friday with a commanding 10-0 win over the Saskatoon Expos but dropped their second game of the round robin 9-8 to the Saskatoon Astros. As a result, their final game of the preliminary round against the Regina Athletics was a must win, and they’d score a pair of runs in the bottom of the seventh to take a 5-4 victory and book a spot in the semifinal Sunday morning.
There, the Canucks had a stellar pitching performance from Lucas Lind to secure a 5-0 victory over the Saskatoon Expos, setting up the match-up with the Giants.
The Moose Jaw Canucks finished second at the 15U AAA provincial championship this past weekend. Facebook
Military vet helps Tunnels of Moose Jaw shine light on the Cold War
Beneath Moose Jaw’s streets lies a multi-room military bunker that offers a Canadian perspective on the Cold War, with the 1950s-era venue illuminated like a spy base — occasionally with a single light bulb or a computer screen. The Tunnels of Moose Jaw recently celebrated its 25th anniversary by offering four special “Founder’s Tours.” Included in this celebration were several tours of “Bunker 24: Digging Deeper.”
The next set of Bunker 24 tours will run from Aug. 13 to 15.
To communicate the tour’s stories authentically, the Tunnels brought in British veteran Kevin Hicks, who lives in Saskatoon and runs the YouTube channel “The History Squad.”
Hicks, 70, served with the Royal Military Police from 1976 to 1985 and was stationed in Germany, Ireland and Cyprus. During that time, he experienced several fascinating situations, which he communicated on the tour compellingly through his storytelling.
“I had an incredible career,” Hicks said on July 22, noting that he wanted to “put some flesh on the bones” about life during that time.
Being a military police (MP) officer did not mean just keeping the peace, he said.
Skulking in Germany
The veteran was sent to Berlin, Ger-
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
many, where he thought he would police a former Nazi barracks, patrol the Berlin Wall and man checkpoints. Instead, he connected with an intelligence unit and patrolled through East Germany, which was “a totally different experience.”
Hicks recalled going on patrol with the intel unit and having to urinate. So, he found some bushes and was about to do his business when a battle tank roared past and nearly crushed him. He submitted a report to his superiors, who then “interrogated” him for seven hours over what he said.
Afterward, the Brit learned that he was the first Westerner to see the Soviet’s newest tank, the T-72. He also learned that the British Special Air Service (SAS) had undercover agents in the area who later found the machine.
On another occasion, Hicks saw Soviet T-62 tanks that were painted in colours different from usual, so he submitted another report. He later learned that the Soviets were rearming the East German army, which would be the “spearpoint” of the Warsaw Pact’s military alliance if it attacked the West.
Undercover work in Ireland
Hicks next went to Northern Ireland for two years, with the first year spent helping the Royal Ulster Constabulary. In his second year there, after he’d
nately, no,” Hicks chuckled.
On another occasion, Hicks and his unit pretended to be a TV crew so they could film a large crowd, which included several well-known Irish terrorists. He noted that the conflict between the Catholics and Protestants was really a proxy war between the United States and the Soviet Union.
“That’s the thing with history. When you talk to people about the Cold War, they have no idea that it was quite hot and desperate,” Hicks said. “And it may have just simmered a little bit, but I believe it’s on the (rise again).”
Hicks was later posted to the Mediterranean island of Cyprus, to a small “protectorate village” called Pergamos, where he had “the most incredible time.” This area has Turkish roots, so he ate goats and birds and drank German beer because of Turkey’s connection to Germany in the First World War.
A new line of work
“learnt all of the ropes,” he was attached to a specialist unit dealing with anti-terrorism.
“I’ve never seen so much hatred in my life,” he said.
Hicks recalled attending a dinner event as part of undercover work and wearing a formal dinner jacket, which included a gun and enough ammunition “to sink a ship.” During that event, he blended in by drinking and dancing with a young woman, who unexpectedly found the gun.
He told her who he was, which upset her.
“She thought we were going to further and have some fun — but, unfortu-
The veteran returned to the U.K. and served with 5 Airborne Brigade, which was supporting the deployment of nuclear missiles. However, he quit the military after his best friend, Dennis, was killed, and became a regular police officer.
He served for seven years in that role before he quit after a vehicle ran over him and left him for dead. He spent five years recovering before switching his focus to educating students about history.
Hicks and his wife moved to Saskatoon 12 years ago because his son married a Saskatchewan girl after serving in Afghanistan with the British military. Hicks later filmed several videos about the Tunnels for his YouTube channel. This caught the attention of the organization’s manager, who invited him to speak during the anniversary tours.
Continuing, he said Bunker 24 is an “absolutely brilliant” concept that gives people the illusion that they’re underground. He added that there are many real bunkers worldwide that are now in mothballs but were necessary decades ago if “the balloon had gone up.”
Visit tunnelsofmoosejaw.com for information about Bunker 24 and other tours.
Kevin Hicks in his military police officer uniform, along with his canine partner, on the island of Cyprus. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Kevin Hicks stands in front of Checkpoint Charlie, one of the most famous locations in Berlin near the Berlin Wall. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Kevin Hicks speaks to the tour group in a classroom. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Open-air jigging class brings Métis culture to life at Crescent Park
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
On a breezy Wednesday afternoon, Crescent Park came alive with the sounds of music, laughter and quick-stepping feet as locals tried their hand at Métis jigging — part of a growing effort to make Indigenous culture more visible in Moose Jaw.
The outdoor class was one of several public sessions planned for the summer. Another will take place in Crescent Park on Wednesday, Aug. 13, from 1:15 to 2:15 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend and there’s no cost to participate.
Led by Trina Gueffroy, jigging instructor with Southern Plains Métis Thunder and New Southern Plains Métis Community No. 160, the open-air class was offered in partnership with the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council (MJMC) and welcomed newcomers and community members alike.
“Today, (the class) was for the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council. It’s just a bunch of the newcomers (and a few staff),” Gueffroy said. “We’re trying to get them into the community and teaching them some Métis culture. We figured, why not (hold our class) in the beautiful park?”
enough dancers to begin performing. Once established, she explained, the group will dance at schools and retirement homes throughout the city.
“We want to give back to the community, and two (new members) is our minimum. The more we have, the better it is,” she added.
Sessions typically feature dances like the Rabbit Dance, heel-toe polka and the Seven Step, with plenty of encouragement for beginners. Smiles and laughter, Gueffroy said, are the best measurements of success.
“As long as you’re laughing and smiling and having a great time, that’s what it’s about,” she said.
The group is also planning its first Métis Festival and Rendezvous Games, tentatively set for Oct. 30 in Wakamow Valley. Meanwhile, a range of other cultural programs — from moccasinmaking to traditional plant medicine —
continue to be offered monthly through Southern Plains Métis No. 160.
“It started, I think, about a year and a half ago. I heard through a friend that there was a need for Métis jigging
(classes), because Moose Jaw has never had it before,” she said. “I’ve been a dance teacher for many, many years, but I wanted something different. The opportunity came up, I met with Elders from the Métis Local, we made a plan, and we’re making it happen.”
Moose Jaw Family Services is at 200 Main Street South, while the New Southern Plains Métis Local No. 160 office is at 210–310 Main Street North.
For more information or to register, visit NSPM160.ca or call the main office at 306-631-6058.
This outreach builds on a broader dance program offered weekly through Moose Jaw Family Services, where youth and adults are invited to participate in regular jigging classes. Gueffroy said the goal is to train and organize a troupe that can eventually perform around the community.
Gueffroy said she’s hoping to bring on a minimum of two new members, which would give the growing troupe
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Instructor Trina Gueffroy, centre, guides participants through the moves during an open-air jigging class in Crescent Park on July 30. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Photo by: Aaron Walker
Nanan STEM Academy summer camp inspires future innovators
Young minds lit up — both literally and figuratively — last week as students explored circuits, robotics, and coding during the latest Nanan STEM Academy summer camp.
The week-long program, which ran July 28 to Aug. 1 at Phoenix Academy, was a partnership between the academy, Skills Canada Saskatchewan, and the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division. In total, about 20 students aged eight to 13 took part, learning technical skills alongside life skills including teamwork, communication, and perseverance.
“We had guest speakers from Skills Canada throughout the week, including Crystal Morin, the director of Skills Canada Saskatchewan,” said Shaun Nanan, academic director of Nanan STEM Academy. “They came to talk about STEM careers and the importance of the kinds of skills students are building here.”
Week-long program
Each day offered a new set of challenges and opportunities.
On day one, students were welcomed by guest speaker Kari Heggie from Skills Canada. The first major assignment was introduced: a capstone project to build a scaled 3D model of downtown Moose Jaw. Each group used TinkerCAD to digitally design buildings, which would later be 3D printed, painted, and brought to life with programmable LED lights.
Students also participated in a specialized, education-focused Minecraft collaboration challenge, where they learned the value of teamwork by attempting to survive together in the same
virtual world.
Day two focused on circuitry and electricity. Campers learned to light up LEDs using unconventional materials such as lemons and potatoes, exploring the basics of electrochemical batteries. They were also introduced to soldering and robotics through hands-on work with Edison Robots.
Guest speaker Na Wang — a former Skills Canada competitor in game development and cloud computing — shared her journey in software development and emphasized the value of teamwork in the STEM field.
On day three, students dove deeper into robotics and coding. Younger participants worked with Micro:bit devices and block coding to control LED lights, while older students used Arduino boards and C++ to program circuits on a breadboard. They also explored hydro energy through a water-powered science
experiment and participated in a Taekwondo session offered by Kim’s Taekwondo Moose Jaw.
“Taekwondo teaches values like leadership, kindness, and integrity, which align closely with what we’re doing at the academy,” Nanan said.
Day four brought lessons in wind and solar energy. Students built functioning windmills and made solar-powered microwaves that could warm small treats. They continued practicing their soldering techniques and enjoyed a surprise ice cream delivery from Twisted Sisters in Chamberlain.
The final day offered a chance to put everything together. Students showcased their completed capstone projects, which included miniature city blocks with functioning LED systems powered by microcontrollers. A highlight for many was the chance to interact with the Unitree Go2 AIR robotic dog, which
students programmed to perform movements and gestures using LiDAR sensors and vision mapping.
Student voices
“I liked programming the lights,” said Dominic, a student in the program. “We designed the buildings, then soldered the wires together and used C++ to program the microcontroller to flash or stay steady.”
Clara said her group worked on a miniature version of Moose Jaw’s clock tower.
“We learned about designing, coding, teamwork, and even math, because we had to scale the buildings down,” she said.
Teacher assistant and Grade 9 student Joshua Overby said the teamwork aspect stood out most.
“One of the main areas of focus is teamwork and building those skills that come with it,” he said. “Sometimes people don’t really know how to work in groups, and this is a great place to practice that.”
Overby said his goal is to pursue a career in robotics or engineering, and camps like this offer a strong foundation. Clara, meanwhile, hasn’t narrowed down her career path yet, but said it’s likely to be something in the STEM field.
“I want to be a mechanical engineer,” added Dominic. “This camp helped with that. I find everything we’ve learned here so cool.”
For more information about upcoming classes, visit NananAcademy.com or contact Shaun Nanan at Shaun@NananAcademy.com.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Students gather in a Phoenix Academy classroom on the final day of the Nanan STEM Academy summer camp, held Aug. 1. The five-day program included lessons in robotics, programming, circuitry, and alternative energy sources. Photo by: Shaun Nanan/ Submitted photo
A close-up view of the cellphone interface used to control the Unitree Go2 AIR robotic dog, showing the camera feed and sensory mapping that allows students to see what the robot sees. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Clara (second from left) and her teammates display their completed capstone project — a 3D printed block of downtown Moose Jaw — complete with integrated LED lights and programmed C++ code to control flashing patterns. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Another student group shows off their capstone project, positioned to the left, which features similar lighting and design elements built using TinkerCAD, microcontrollers, and teamwork. Photo by: Aaron Walker
The Unitree Go2 AIR robotic dog was a highlight for many students during the camp. The robot responds to pre-programmed cues including pounce, sit, greet, and show love. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Jack Paice Started Paice Construction in 1964
In 1973, Terry Paice took over the family business. Bob Nelson began working for Paice when he was only 15 years old and so began a mentorship that continues to this day. When Bob was 27, he started his own construction business and was subcontracted by Paice.
When Terry was ready to retire, Bob bought the business from him and continued the tradition of excellence started by Jack Paice and the knowledge passed on throughout the years. Continued loyalty to the Paice family name was foremost in Bob's work ethic and continues to be part of his long term success.
Hours: Monday- Friday 9am-5pm (Closed for lunch 12-1pm)
We will custom design your steel building so it meets your exact needs. Not only will the building meet your functional and aesthetic speci cations, but it will provide you with years of trouble free use. Our knowledgeable sta pays close attention to every aspect of the job they are completing and work with the client throughout the whole process to ensure a successful project. We strive to nish the job on time and within the budget we have set.
The employees at Paice Construction work hard to provide the highest quality pre-engineered or design-build buildings to all our clients. They will work one-on-one with you through the entire duration of your project to ensure all your needs and desires are met. Part of meeting your expectations is having friendly energetic sta who will make the experience enjoyable for you, as well as e ective. Let our apprentice and journeyman carpenters show you what they can do. You won't be disappointed!
Steel buildings are low maintenance, versatile and energy e cient. They are also cost e ective, durable and rust and corrosion resistant. We o er pre-engineered or design-build option
Daily Sudoku Puzzles by KrazyDad, July 30, 2025
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
13. T T T 18. Bad treatment 22. British tax 24. Droops
26. Accompanying
28. Maestro’s wand
29. A Great Lake
30. Adjusts
31. Restrain
32. Angle between leaf and branch
33. Go ashore
34. Every 2 months
37. Contented cat sound
38. Fill to excess
40. Ticket part you keep
41. Small part
43. Seashores
44. Supervisors
46. Wait on
47. Overweight
48. Snouts
49. Cast out
50. Retained
51. Anagram of “Rose”
53. Inheritor
56. Police officer
57. Convent dweller
205 WANTED
Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-313-3439. Looking for a handyman for small jobs around my home. Please call 306-972-8855.
140 FOR RENT
FOR RENT - 1 bedroom suite, NW location, kitchen, living room, bedroom, bathroom, includes heat and water. Taking applications, $775/month. Call 306-692-0727. Small house for rent. 306-6922822
145 REAL ESTATE
Senior Living Condo for Rent - Points West Retirement Centre, 917 Bradley Street, Moose Jaw, SK. Friendly, warm, home like atmosphere, open floor plan with large living room, full selfcontained kitchen, 2 bedrooms with walk-in closet, balcony, corner unit with beautiful view in 3 directions, ensuite washer and dryer, individual thermostat for heating or cooling, garage available, large and bright dining and common area floor plan, entertainment and bistro facilities, monthly or individual meals available, shuttle service available. For more information or viewing
CLASSIFIED ADS
call: Dan 306 631-1669, Judi 306 631-0742
105 AUTOS
2015 NISSAN XTERRA 79000 KM PRO-4X PREMIUM MODEL
4X4 SUV. Stored in shop the last 3 years with short runs. Never been off road. Original tires. Original ownwer. Mint condition. Financing available OAC. 306631-1669.
Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268
Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, finishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofing/siding- no job too big or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. Cleaner with 20 years experience available for move out cleans. Please call Rebecca at 306-9900387.
Junk to the dump in and around Moose Jaw, $60 and up. Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver any appliances, TVs, furniture, or anything large in and around Moose Jaw, $45 and up. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $20 each. 1000 Litre plastic totes - $60. 45-gallon metal barrels, $15 each. 306681-8749
188 HEALTH & BEAUTY SUPPLIES
For Sale - Legend Scooter, like new, asking $2500 OBO. Call Terry 306-580-6889.
160 MISCELLANEOUS
Daisy Air Gun - Complete with shoots and canister. 12 Gauge Coooey Shot Gun, complete with trigger lock. 39” barrel. PAL is required. Call Ray @ 306-690-8018
235 PERSONAL
CONNECTIONS
Looking for the class of ‘66 from Sion Academy. Where are you? Deborah Dowdon 612-968-5625.
165 HOUSEHOLD
For Sale - Table and Chairs (5) w/ leaf (2), Sofa - 87” long, 88” deep, other household items. Downsizing and open to offers. Please call
306-693-5634 or 306-630-8964. Senior downsizing, lots of good items - electrical and carpentry tools, fold up table, lawn chairs. Willing to sell as a whole or piece it out. By appointment 306-6908018
220 HELP WANTED HELP WANTED - P/T or Casual secretary/typist/internet research assistant for Christian Bible topics. Must be compatible with salvation, healing, deliverance, and ministry outreach. Call 306-313-3439.
Tessa Anderson & Connor
Fir Mountain, SK July 29, 2025 5:15 pm
Female 7lbs, 2oz
Obituaries / Memorials
Kehlsie Kaytor & Derek Kaytor
Moose Jaw, SK July 30, 2025 12:40 am
Female 8lbs, 4oz
ROGER LOUIS ARENDT
October 10, 1949 – July 26, 2025
Morgan Davison & Colin Hallmark
Spring Valley, SK July 30, 2025
08:30 am
Female 6lbs, 8oz
Local Students Raise Over $4,000 for Hope Ministries Through “2+5” Christian Action Project
Submitted By Rachel Mullens, Founding Executive Director
Hope Ministries Moose Jaw Inc.
Roger Arendt passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, surrounded by family after a lengthy illness. Born near Ravenscrag, SK, he moved to Eastend as a child and later earned his law degree from the University of Saskatchewan. Roger practiced law in Moose Jaw for decades, ultimately serving as a senior partner at Grayson & Company.
He is survived by sons Justin (Monica) and Aaron (Natalie); grandchildren Luke, Alexis, Freya, and Presea; sister Sis Erickson; and stepdaughters Kendra and Alana with their families.
Roger will be fondly remembered for his devotion to family, sense of humour, love of blacksmithing, morning garage sales, and perfectly organized tools.
A celebration of his life will take place at 2:00 PM on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at W.J.
Jones & Son Reception Centre, 474 Hochelaga St W., Moose Jaw.
Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.
Please sign the memorial register at website: www.wjjonesandson.com (Obituaries).
Chrystine Dacey - Funeral Director
Earlier this school year, I had the great honor of speaking to Mr. Skoropad’s Catholic Studies 20 class about my journey with Hope Ministries; the calling that led me to this work, and my years growing up overseas as a missionary kid. What followed was nothing short of inspiring.
As part of their Christian Action Project, these remarkable students launched a fundraiser they called “2+5,” drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 with just two loaves and five fishes. Rooted in faith and guided by compassion, their efforts raised over $4,000 for Hope Ministries right here in Moose Jaw.
This project was about so much more than fundraising. The students also participated in a 25-hour fast to deepen their understanding of sacrifice and hunger, and to stand in solidarity with those in need. What began as a school initiative quickly became a true community event, bringing people together to give, reflect, and act.
To Mr. Skoropad and his incredible
students: thank you. Your compassion, leadership, and dedication truly reflect what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ. Your generosity will go a long way in helping us serve those most in need in our community — and your example will continue to inspire many more.
Honoured to serve you.
Dayna Chamberlain General Manager
Going ABOVE and BEYOND expectations is what sets us apart
Dr.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Capricious
Barb requested I investigate the word capricious and I discovered some interesting things in its history. Thanks Barb.
In the Spring, when we made our plans for planting the garden, I discovered an old package of radish seeds from 2010. On a capricious decision I decided to put them in the ground on a small plot near the house, beside the parsley, with the attitude that if they grew, they grew, and if not, I wouldn’t be upset. Well, wonder of wonders, they grew, and I actually sampled a radish the other day. Many of the plants have gone to seed, I don’t know why. But a few grew nicely and the one I tried tasted very good, if you like radishes.
Capricious describes actions governed or characterized by a sudden, impulsive, and seemingly unmotivated notion. The noun caprice means a disposition to do things impulsively or on a whim. Last week, by sheer caprice, she quit her job and went on a month-long hike around and throughout Luxembourg.
Capricious is derived from the Italian word capriccio, originally referring to a sudden shiver of horror, not a sudden desire to do something, as we use it today. Capriccio is a combination of the Italian capo, meaning head, and riccio, referring to a hedgehog. (If you do not know, a hedgehog is a small mammal with spines that do not detach easily, as do the quills of a porcupine. When threatened a hedgehog rolls into a small ball shape.) The association was that someone who shook in fear or horror was described as a ‘hedgehog head,’ meaning that their hair stood on end like the spines of a hedgehog.
Francesco Alunno, an Italian lexicographer in the 1500s, noted both the hedgehog connection with horror and the meaning with the current association of a whim. He wrote (translated), “and a sudden and unreasoning inclination is called capriccio, such as seems to come in the manner of goats, which all leap if one leaps. Likewise those shudders, shivers of cold that appear at the beginning of a still doubtful fever are called capricci.” However, the association of capriccio with horror became rare after the 18th century in Italian. Inconstant, fickle, mercurial, unstable, and capricious all imply lacking firmness or steadiness in purpose or devotion.
Inconstant implies an incapacity for being direct or sure and an inherent tendency to change. He was an inconstant friend who came in and out of her life periodically.
Fickle suggests unreliability because of changeability. Professional sports teams soon discover how fickle fans can be when a losing streak goes on and on.
Mercurial means a rapid changeability in mood. All the employees of the department were anxious about their jobs because of the boss’s mercurial temperament. Unstable implies an incapacity for remaining in a steady course and applies especially to a lack
of emotional balance. He was too unstable for consideration for the leadership of the party.
Capricious suggests motivation by sudden whim or fancy and stresses unpredictability. As a food critic she was very capricious in her reviews.
When flying kites it is not easy dealing with the capricious winds on the prairies.
Frequent gamblers must remember that Lady Luck is a capricious mistress who always offers but rarely comes through.
To plan ahead in this era of increasing tariffs is not easy for the investor because the patterns of the stock market are capricious and very complex at the best of times.
Both Donald Trump and Robert Kennedy Jr. are very capricious when it comes to trying to predict what will come next.
It seems that when the granddaughters come for a visit, as they will soon again, it is hard to shop for their favourite foods as their capricious appetites can change from visit to visit. We often find that what we have purchased to satisfy them is now labeled with “not my favourite” anymore. Oh, the joys of grandparenting and aiming to please capricious children’s tastes.
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 deeply grateful to everyone who came to Raymond Wiman’s funeral. Your love, support, and kind words brought comfort to our hearts. It means so much to know how much Raymond was loved and remembered. With love from Raymond’s family.
-- Steve Jobs
Rev.
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.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com
Town N’ Country Mall events
Community Second Chance Sale (garage sale) on Friday August 8 from 1pm to 7pm and Saturday August 9 from 10am to 3pm. 10x10 space only $10. Don’t have enough to have your own sale here’s your chance to sell with others. For more information email craftsalegail@gmail.com or gail@ptccyvr.com
Captain Canuck Creator Richard Comely will be outside COMIC BOOK GUY POP CULTURE SHOP for the 50th Anniversary Tour! Thursday August 14 from 4pm to 7pm August 20 to 23 iIndoor Back to School Sidewalk Sale August 23 Kid’s Funday Variety of games, crafts, coloring and facepainting.
Saskatchewan Open Farm Days Moose Jaw Bus Tour Days will be held August 9 & 10. Leave the driving and come and ride the bus enjoying the farms, flavours and stories of Southern Saskatchewan. Sip and sample award winning wines at Prairie Bee Meadery; meet the herd and learn about sustainable farming at Pine Ranch; experience a hearty lunch and experience life at Hodgeville Colony Farm. Return ticket to enjoy the Western Development Musuem. All day tour and lunch $63 per person. wwwskopefarmdays.ca ashley@farmfoodcaresk.org
Saskatchewan 55+ Provincial Games will be held in Swift Current between August 26-28.
Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling Club has returned to their GREENS in Crescent Park. This spring regular hours will be Tues & Thur @10:00am and 6:30pm M-Tu-W-Th. Everyone welcome. This is a sport for all abilities, for both recreation and competition, for youth and seniors. Text 306-630-8160 for info about other opportunities to participate. Drop in bowls will be Tues &Thurs@10am; also, M-T-W-Th @7.
In 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 not be meeting this summer and will resume meetings in September. 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!
Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month status to take place on the third Friday of each month
Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an inperson, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-6841464 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 pro-
gram for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am. Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds. Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 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 PROGRAMMING:
FIRE SAFETY PRESENTATION Friday, August 8 @ 11:00 am in South Meeting Room for all ages. DropIn Program STORYTIME IN THE PARK Wednesdays until August 27 @10:30am in Crescent Park in Front of the Library for ages 2 and up and their caring adults! Drop-In Program
COME AND GO PLAY Thursdays until August 28 @ 9:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 0 to 5 and their caring adults! Drop-In Program
L’HEURE DU CONTE (FRENCH STORYTIME) Saturday, August 30 10h30 à la chambre des enfants pour les 0-5 ans et leurs soignants All levels of French language are welcom
MAKER SATURDAYS Saturdays, August 30 @ 2pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 8-12. Registration required: August 30 - LEGO Spike Prime
AROUND THE WORLD Tuesdays, August 5, 12, 19 & 26 @2pm in Children’s Program Room for ages 6-8. Drop-in program
FUN WITH FOOD AND FARMING Thursday, August 7 @ 1:30 pm in Children’s Program Room for ages 4+. A collaborative event with Mosaic Community Food Farm
GLOW IN THE DARK PLAYDOUGH Saturday, August 9 @ 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2+. Registration required.
NANAN STEM ACADEMY Saturday, August 9 @ 1:30 pm in South Meeting Room for ages 8-13 Registration required
OCEAN DISCOVERY BOTTLES Saturday, August 23 @ 10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2+. Registration required.
YOUTH PROGRAMMING:
MOVIE MATINEE Saturday, August 9 @ 2:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Drop-in program Movie: The LEGO Movie (G)
MOVIE MATINEE Saturday, August 23 @ 2:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Drop-in program Movie: Batman & Robin (1997) (PG)
TEEN D&D: INSECTOPIA Group A: Tuesdays Aug 19 to Sep 23/Group B: Thursdays Aug 21 to Sep
25 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Tuesdays - Herb Taylor Room Thursdays - Reading Room Ages: 12 to 16
Registration required visit mjlibrary.ca/events to register
TEEN MAKERS Wednesday, August 6 @ 6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19. Registration required Project: Frog Plushies
TEEN GAMERS Wednesday, August 13 @6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19. Drop-in program
TEEN ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesday, August 20 @ 6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 12-19. Drop-
in program Project: Flextangle / Hexaflexagon
TEEN ANIME+ CLUB Wednesday, August 27 @ 6:30 pm in MJPL Theatrefor ages 12-19 Drop-in program Show: The Demon Prince of Momochi House MOVIE MATINEE Saturday, August 23 @2:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Drop-in program Movie: Batman & Robin (1997) (PG)
MOVIE MATINEE Saturday, August 9 @ 2:30 pm in MJPL Theatre for all ages. Drop-in program Movie: The LEGO Movie (G)
TEEN D&D: INSECTOPIA Group A: Tuesdays Aug 19 to Sep 23 Group B: Thursdays Aug 21 to Sep 25 Time: 6:30 pm Location: Tuesdays - Herb Taylor Room Thursdays - Reading Room for ages 1216. Registration required visit mjlibrary.ca/events to register Comics on Hoopla Get lost in the pages of Hoopla’s comics! Whether you’re into epic battles, superheroes, or quirky stories, there’s something for every comic lover.
ADULT PROGRAMMING:
MJPL MOVIE CLUB Monday, August 5 @6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program Movie: Jaws/Monday, August 18 @6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Adults Drop-in program Movie: Viewer’s Choice
DOCUMENTARY NIGHT Thursday, August 28 @6pm in MJPL Theatre for adults. Drop-in program Movie: Grizzly 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, August 9, 16, 23 & 30 @2 pm in Reading Room for Ages 13+ Dropin program
MJ CHESS CLUB AT MJPL Sunday, August 17 from 1-4 pm in Reading Room for All ages welcome Dropin program.
MAKER NIGHT Monday, August 18 @ 6:30 pm in Herb Taylor Room for ages 13+. Registration required Project: Greenstuff Workshop
The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw is making it’s move to their new location – 693 Fairford Street W. Please call to see when opening day is. Contact: 306-692-5453. Facebook @ ROYAL
CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59
STEPHANIE FOLEY - MAD HATTER COMEDY TOUR – Saturday August 9th @ 7pm – tickets available on facebook events.
Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca The centre is now open Mon-Thurs 8am – 8pm. For more information Call: 306-6944223 or Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca
The centre is now open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am – 8pm.
Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Friday’s 8am4pm
Wood working area – Monday to Friday 8 am – 4 pm
Timothy Eaton Cafe open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cinnamon Buns are on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Kitchen is open Monday to Friday. Everyone is welcomed.
Billiards open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. as well as Monday & Thursday evenings from 4:30 – 8 p.m.
Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm, Every Tuesday 9am -4pm starting September
Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Jam Sessions
evenings 6:30pm-8:30pm
N.E.
Citizens’
Weekly Activities –
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/1pm-Pickleball/7pmFriendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30am-Pickleball/1pmFloor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking - 11:30am/Art Drop In - 1:00pm/Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm
Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pm-Regular Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball - 9:30am and Pickleball - 1:00pm
August 16th Cosmo Barbeque Fundraiser from 5-6pm. Hamburgers, hotdogs, beans, salad, coffee & tea. Cost $15
August 16th Social Dance - Dennis Ficor 6:30pm10:00pm. Cost $15
Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net
Monday/Tuesday – Open 12 to 7 pm
Wednesday – 12 – 6 pm 10 card Crib and Smear
Thursday – 12 – 7 pm Regular Crib and Smear
Friday – 1 - 10 pm Pool and Darts (7 pm)
Saturday – 1 – 7pm Meat Draw at 4:30 pm, 50/50 and gift cards. Everyone welcome.
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395
EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” 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 Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca
306-694-4747
324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK
Derek McRitchie REALTOR® (306) 631-1161
E.G. (Bub) Hill REALTOR® (306) 631-9966
Tanya Minchin REALTOR® (306) 630-6231
Cassie Nichol REALTOR® (306) 631-0691
Justin Hammer REALTOR® (306)684-4266
Moose Jaw Soapbox Derby returning to Alder Avenue this August
Young racers, seasoned volunteers, and curious spectators will soon gather for one of Moose Jaw’s unique summer traditions — the Moose Jaw & District Soapbox Derby, set to return on Sunday, Aug. 17.
Hosted by the Moose Jaw Soapbox Derby Club, this year’s races will begin at 9 a.m. along Alder Avenue, with the starting line one block south of Saskatchewan Street and the finish line near Ross Street. Roads will be closed for the event, and volunteers will be on hand to return cars to the top of the hill between races.
“Everyone’s welcome to come watch us all day,” said Heather Carle, president and organizer of the club. “Hopefully we’ll get good weather … Kona Ice will be set up at the top of the hill, and other vendors will be joining us, too.”
The derby welcomes young racers between the ages of seven and 15. Around 15 to 19 competitors are expected this year, including a number of
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
young racer prepares to speed down Alder
a
participants from Swift Current. Carle noted that the club still has three junior and two senior cars available and there’s still time to register.
“So for any kids aged seven to 15 that we can fit into a car, (make sure) they’re comfortable, and get them some practice, there’s still time to join,” Carle confirmed.
Nine-year-old Izabella Carle, who’s gearing up for her third year behind the wheel, described the event as more than just a race.
“My favourite thing about the event is that I get to see new racers, help racers, see different people and watch people, and just be a part of it,” she said.
Izabella will again race using a club car passed down through her family since 2009. She’s had modest results in previous years — “I’ve (placed) sixth and 10th, and I won a sportsmanship
prize last year” — but this time around, she’s got a clear goal in mind.
“When I went to Swift Current, my car wasn’t doing its best anymore. I was like, ‘What?’ So my goal is for my car to actually listen to my wheel,” she said with a laugh.
Izabella also offered some advice for new racers: “You have to have fun, be ready, and keep your steering wheel straight. And at the bottom, don’t wait — when you cross the finish line, put on your brake right away.”
The derby weekend kicks off Saturday, Aug. 16, with a pre-race vehicle inspection and family barbecue at the D.V. Currie VC Armoury at 1215 Main Street North, where drivers will receive custom T-shirts and raffle prizes.
For anyone still looking to sign up, race day fees are $30 per child and Carle described the event as a family-friendly atmosphere.
The event is supported by a growing list of sponsors, including Golden West Trailer, Superstore, Devo’s Car
Wash, JGL, Family Pizza, Moose Jaw Police Service, LB Beattie Autobody, and many others. Proceeds support future races and club activities.
To register or learn more, message “Moose Jaw & District Soap Box Racing Club” on Facebook or email MooseJaw.Soapbox@hotmail.com.
Nine-year-old Izabella Carle sits in her soapbox race car, proudly bearing her name. The car has a long family history, previously raced by her uncle Jordan Carle (2009–2011), left, and cousin Danica Finlay (2017–2019), right. Photo by: Heather Carle/Submitted
A
Avenue in
McDonald’s-themed soapbox car during a previous derby. Organizers are welcoming additional sponsors to support the growing event. Photo by: Moose Jaw & District Soap Box Racing Club
Racers from Moose Jaw and Swift Current pose for a group photo during the August 2024 Soapbox Derby, which drew young competitors from across southern Saskatchewan. Photo by: Heather Carle/ Submitted
Listing of Moose Jaw & Area properties and things for your home
Phase 5 & 6 - WestHeath 52 newly available lots await your vision. Starting at a competitive $83,334, these lots are positionedstrategically around the emerging Super School! Call For Lots & Pricing
1207 Grafton Ave. 2 ½ Storey home, Move In Ready. Updates Throughout. 4 Beds/2 Baths & 3rd oor is a BONUS!
MLS®# SK013545$239,900
147 Hochelaga St W Condo w/an Outdoor Pool. Steps to Downtown & updated w/ 2 beds, 2 Baths, Covered Patio overlooking courtyard & pool. This is one to see!
MLS®# SK008753$339,900
833 Keith St. Bungalow w/an Addition adding perfect space to the Kitchen/Dining area. 3 Beds/2 Baths. Updates inside and out!
MLS®# SK009518$304,900
1164 Willow Ave.
Outstanding Klemenz Bros. Construction. A must see, with 2 Beds/2 Baths, low maintenance landscaping & Dbl. Det. Garage. Basement is open for development.
MLS®#SK013052$369,900
289 Wood Lily Dr. Spacious Bungalow w/no back neighbours on a large lot w/Dbl. Att. & Db. Det. Garages. 5 Beds, 3 Baths. A perfect home for any chapter in life.
MLS®# SK011553$724,900
1049 Simcoe St. Redesigned into Open Concept. Beautiful Finishes w/3 Beds, 2 Baths and Lower level is framed and open to buyer nishing.
MLS®# SK013060$309,900
1609 11th Ave NW
1158 Alder Ave. Character w/UPDATES!designMOVE IN READY! 3 Beds/Den/3 Baths. Finished Lower level & Dbl. Det. Heated Garage!
MLS®# SK009519$314,900
Prime VLA location on park like yard. This Bi-Level enjoys 4 Beds, is nished, Enclosed Deck, Patio & Oversized Dbl. Att. Garage.
MLS®# SK010195$384,900
Gated Acreage in the City! Overlooking the valley. 2.36 Acres on city water. Stately grounds, w/2 x Dbl. Att. Garages, PLUS 2 Additional Oversized Garages & Parking Pads. Location is Perfect!
MLS®# SK000517 - $749,900
1148 Meier Drive Backing the Park, WALKOUT Bungalow, Custom Built. 5 Beds/3 Baths, Upper/Lower Decks & Patios. BONUS Oversized Heated Garage! A MUST SEE!
MLS®# SK001785$849,900
701 Tatanka Dr. Sun Valley Chalet style year-round living in Bu alo Pound Lake. Over 27,870sqft of land, short walk to beach & boat launch. 2 Beds, 2 Baths, wrap around deck and great garage!
MLS®# SK007736 - $409,900
1502 Vaughan St Updated Inside & Out. 3 Beds, a Den (built as bedroom) & 2 Baths. Bonus in the Dbl. Det. Insulated Garage!
MLS®# SK009160$390,000
110 3rd Ave W, Gravelbourg MUST SEE! Exceptional Home w/4 Car Att., 4 Car Det. Move In Ready 3 Beds, 2 Dens & 2 Baths.
MLS®#SK013698$424,900
#1 – 1590 4th Ave NW
Fully Finished Bungalow Style Det. Condo, nestled on the Greens of the Lynbrook Golf Course, in Lynbrook Place. Stunning & attention to detail &features are incredible. Call for more info!
MLS®# SK006857 - $949,900
275 Blue Sage Stunning custom-built home by Construction,Sandbeckenhanced w/gorgeous features. Beautifully landscaped w/Dbl. Att. Garage in Sunningdale of Moose Jaw!
#507 – 205 Fairford St E.
In Terrace East Condo complex this penthouse style condo is over 2645 sqft. w/to balconies overlooking Crescent Park. 3 Beds, 3 Baths, 2 underground parking stalls. Call for more info!
MLS®# SK999411 - $1,099,000
MLS®# SK008649 - $669,900
1453 Normandy Dr. Grand Walkout Bungalow, in prestigious VLA cul-de-sac, with a Pool & a backyard to love, with no back neighbours and a view. Call for more info!
