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Volume 18, Issue 52 | Wed., December 24, 2025

Sask Polytech Startup Challenge opens doors for local entrepreneurs Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Local entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners are invited to participate in the Sask Polytech Startup Challenge, a provincewide program returning in early 2026 to support the growth of early-stage ventures with the chance to earn up to $10,000.

The Startup Challenge is a mentorship and pitch competition led by Sask Polytech’s Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre (BIEC), aimed at supporting early-stage businesses, social enterprises, and student-led startup ideas.

The program combines structured mentorship and skill-building workshops, culminating in a final pitch event next spring.

Applications are now open and will be accepted until Jan. 12, 2026.

Running from January through April, the challenge offers selected participants a 10-week program that includes virtual sessions led by BIEC staff and industry mentors once every two weeks. The sessions are designed to help founders refine their business models, strengthen their value propositions, and prepare a competitive pitch for investors and judges.

The program is open to two groups: Saskatchewan-based entrepreneurs operating early-stage businesses or social enterprises with revenue, and Sask Polytech students who have a venture idea that’s ready to move beyond the concept stage. Spots are limited, and priority will be given to ap-

Sask Polytech is accepting applications for its Startup Challenge, a provincewide mentorship and pitch competition supporting early-stage businesses and student-led ventures, with a final pitch event set for Moose Jaw in April 2026. Photo by: Aaron Walker

plicants who demonstrate a commitment to community impact.

Each participant will be paired with an industry mentor, providing one-on-one guidance and accountability throughout the program. Organizers describe the mentorship component as a key feature of the challenge, giving founders access to experienced professionals from a range of sectors.

The challenge will culminate in a final showcase and pitch event held in mid-April at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall, where finalists will present their ventures to a panel of judges made up of industry leaders and community partners.

Cash prizes are available in both com-

petition streams. In the early-stage venture category, first place will receive $10,000, followed by $5,000 for second and $2,500 for third. The student stream offers prizes of $2,000 for first place, $1,000 for second, and $500 for third, with additional themed awards totalling $4,000 also up for grabs.

Organizers note that any projects developed during the challenge — including all associated intellectual property — remain the property of the participants.

While Sask Polytech may feature projects for promotional and educational purposes, founders retain full ownership of their ideas and businesses.

Participants must commit to scheduled virtual workshops and attend the in-person pitch event in Moose Jaw. Businesses operating in certain sectors — including controlled substances, gambling, adult entertainment, and predatory financial services — are not eligible to participate.

The competition is supported by the Town ‘N’ Country Mall, HarvestGuard Agronomy, and the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce.

Entrepreneurs and students can find full details and the application form online at SaskPolytech.ca. Questions can be directed to BIEC@SaskPolytech.ca.

The Moose Jaw campus is located at 600 Saskatchewan Street West and can be reached at 1-866-467-4278.

PAGE A2 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Moose Jaw ag partnership receives praise from mayor, gov’t minister Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw’s mayor and the Saskatchewan government’s agriculture minister are both praising a new ag-focused group that aims to enhance regional collaboration and bring together existing knowledge and expertise.

The Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership (MJFFP) held its inaugural event at the Temple Gardens Centre on Dec. 15, which saw industry officials, business owners, municipal officials and politicians celebrate the launch.

Mayor James Murdock commended the group’s board, founding partners and others for building the partnership and bringing it to life.

“Agriculture has always been central to Moose Jaw and the surrounding region. Today, it also represents one of our strongest opportunities for economic growth, investment and diversification,” he said.

Moose Jaw is centrally located in a productive ag region, which is supported by strong transportation links, established infrastructure and an agri-food industrial park designed for processing, manufacturing, value-added development and innovation, he continued.

Mayor James Murdock talks about the agriculture industry in the City of Moose Jaw during the launch event of the Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership. Photo

by Jason G. Antonio

Moreover, the industrial park represents a major opportunity for investors and businesses to participate, since it offers serviced land, access to highways and rail lines, proximity to utilities and room to grow, the mayor noted.

“Just as important as infrastructure is co-ordination. Investment decisions are easier when communities can offer clarity, collaboration and support,” Murdock said. “That is where the MJFFP …

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The Hon. David Marit, minister of agriculture, speaks during the partnership kickoff event. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

plays an important role.”

Continuing, he said the partnership aligns producers, processors, service providers and community partners around a shared goal, and from the city’s perspective, this collaboration is essential since investment attraction is not just about land or incentives, but about confidence.

That confidence helps a community understand its strengths, supports business growth, and prepares partners to work together, the mayor said. Meanwhile, this initiative reflects strong collaboration among industry, community organizations, and government, which is how sustainable economic development happens.

“As mayor, I am encouraged by the momentum behind the MJFFP and its focus on practical, regionally grounded solutions that build on existing strengths while creating new opportunities,” Murdock continued.

“Moose Jaw is open for business.”

Murdock added that the city is ready to work with industry leaders, partners and investors who want to be part of the region’s next chapter of growth.

The Hon. David Marit, minister of agriculture, agreed that this partnership took plenty of collaboration to create.

Moreover, it also took a strong leader to guide the organization, so he singled out Elyce Simpson-Fraser, board president and president/CEO of Simpson Seeds.

Marit joked that she (Simpson-Fraser) didn’t have enough on her plate already and so agreed to take on the role.

He also commended the other board members, since they were similarly busy and were volunteering to help grow the group and bring together industry players.

The ag minister — who regained this portfolio recently after serving from 2018 to 2024 — said he recalled when Donald’s Fine Foods/North 49 Foods started its sow processing plant in Moose Jaw in October 2023 and had concerns about acquiring labour, completing the work and sourcing old sows.

“But what I really admire about something like this is how the business community has come together to say (that) we can drive this and we can help motivate this to actually grow the whole industry,” Marit said.

The ag minister pointed out that projects and partnerships have more momentum when the private sector drives them forward. So, to support that, the government puts “the right policies” and “the right programs” — such as the value-added tax incentive program — in place to help the private sector grow. It also works with the federal government to support the industry.

Marit added that he was excited to see the Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership grow and transform, while the government would continue to support it.

Visit mjffp.ca for more information.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

Correction:

Incorrect information appeared in the Dec. 10 article about the properties that city hall plans to acquire because of tax arrears. The property of 1237 Grandview Street West is owned by Mirage Builders Inc., and not Armstrong Construction. We apologize for the error.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A3

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‘Crop Marketing Made Cool’ conference draws Prairie farmers to Moose Jaw Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Prairie farmers gathered in Moose Jaw earlier this month for the second-ever “Crop Marketing Made Cool” conference, a three-day event focused on helping producers navigate crop marketing challenges and strengthen farm business decision-making.

The conference, hosted by the Edmonton, Alta.-based What the Futures podcast, was held from Dec. 9 to 11 at the Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa and sold out, drawing farmers from Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba.

Ryan Denis, founder and host of What the Futures, said the conference grew out of his experience working with farmers as a consultant and grain buyer, and from his mission to make crop marketing more tolerable.

“I started the podcast just over two years ago,” he said.

“Crop marketing is traditionally very dull and boring … so we’re trying to make crop marketing cool and not as painful.”

Denis said the conference was designed to differ from many large agricultural events, placing the focus on education rather than promotion.

“You go to a farm conference and it’s usually … maybe 80 per cent industry and 20 per cent farmers, so we flipped that around,” he said. “We’re 98 per cent farmers and two per cent industry. It brings a different … level of collaboration and com-

Ryan Denis, founder and host of the What the Futures podcast, speaks during the “Crop Marketing Made Cool” conference, held Dec. 9 to 11 at the Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa. Photo by: Toni Aquino, Moose Jaw and District Food Bank

munication.”

One dominant theme was the financial pressure many farms are now facing.

“The big theme is that it’s tough out there,” he explained.

“It’s not easy, but everyone in that room was trying to provide a little edge, a little advantage, to do the best in what can be viewed as a tough situation that is trending worse.”

Another key message was the need for farmers to focus on the business side of their operations.

“The other theme … is dedicating time every week (toward) … creating and executing your business plan,” Denis said. “(For my brother) to sit in the office is painful, but I think a lot of farmers can relate to that. It’s just so important to do … even if you just spend a little bit of time, you’ll have some positive results come out of it.”

Beyond the conference sessions, Denis said Moose Jaw left a strong impression.

“We had a good week — everyone treated us well in the downtown core. When people heard we were coming to town … they reached out to us, saying ‘Hey … we’re available and willing to stay open or partner (with you).’ I had not experienced that before, so that was really cool,” he said.

One noteworthy outcome of the conference was a silent auction fundraiser in support of the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, which raised $9,170 through donations from sponsors and attendees.

“Getting farmers in a room who are doing everything they can to produce food and then tying it into the food bank through the conference was just a no-brainer,” Denis said.

“There’s no city or town that

you go to where the food bank is not struggling.”

Toni Aquino, the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank’s marketing specialist and event planner, said the donation provides a much-needed boost as local families face a period of growing demand.

“Events like the ‘Crop Marketing Made Cool’ conference show the power of community coming together to support one another. We’re grateful

to What the Futures and everyone who participated in the silent auction for helping ensure families in Moose Jaw continue to have access to food and essential supports during a time of growing need,” she said.

Denis said feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and he hopes to return to Moose Jaw again.

To learn more, visit WhatTheFuturesPodcast.ca.

PAGE A4 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Editor’s Note When I count my blessings in life, friends play a big part in my life satisfaction.

Friendship is one of life’s greatest treasures, providing emotional support, encouragement, and laughter—qualities that help our mental, emotional and even physical well-being.

JOAN RITCHIE - They help us feel connected and Moose Jaw Express valued on an everyday basis and also through bigger transitions EDITOR in life.

Have you noticed that as you age, the importance of having friends seems greater?

Friendships seem to matter more due to a combination of social, psychological, and physiological factors that change over our lifespan. While family provides foundational support, friendships become vital for mental resilience, social engagement, and overall well-being and provide companionship and

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

shared understanding.

Having friends is an essential part of our wellbeing linked to higher levels of happiness. Don’t you find that when you spend time with friends your cares seem to fade into the distance and your mood is elevated? It’s easy to talk openly with them without fear of being ostracised or criticized for personal idiosyncrasies. Hanging out together creates a light-hearted atmosphere of laughter and camaraderie.

It is a known fact that adults with strong social connections have a lower risk of many health problems like depression, high blood pressure, and an unhealthy weight. Living longer, a healthier heart and a sharper mind are all products of regular social connections through conversations, shared activities, or simply spending time together.

Friendships do wonders for our mood too providing a cushion to stress and depression. Spending time together can turn a mundane day into something special as we go through life’s challenges. Friends are like the icing on the cake, the ‘nuts’ in the batter or the

spice that wows our taste buds.

And no matter how old we are, it’s always possible to make new friends and be open to opportunities that build new friendships. Some ideas include giving and accepting invitations to go for lunch or for coffee, etc.

A common interest produces a good environment to develop friendships. Attending special activities offers opportunities to get to know others better. Be a volunteer and offer your time and talents at a hospital, place of worship, museum, charity or community center. Strong links can be formed when we work with people who have interests like ours. Take up a new activity that gets you out of the house into a new environment.

It doesn’t matter that you have maintained a friendship that has lasted through the ages or whether it is a brand-new relationship, having a solid social circle of friends raises your sense of connection and purpose.

Moose Jaw Co-op helps push ‘I Bought a Lunch’ campaign past $100,000 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Hunger in Moose Jaw’s annual “I Bought a Lunch” campaign has concluded for the year, but donations continue to roll in and will be accepted until Dec. 31, with fundraising totals now confirmed at more than $100,000 — well above the initiative’s $75,000 goal.

Now in its 15th year, the campaign supports Hunger in Moose Jaw’s Child Nutrition School Lunch Program, which provides daily meals to students across the city. A significant contribution toward this year’s total came from Moose Jaw Co-op, which raised a record $14,829.85 through its in-store fundraising efforts. While the overall amount raised by Hunger in Moose Jaw is not a record for the organization, Sept said the Co-op’s contribution marks a new high for the retailer’s involvement in the campaign.

“That just means (there are) more funds available for us to spend in our Child Nutrition Program,” said Sharla Sept, executive director of Hunger in Moose Jaw. “We appreciate our long-term partnership with the Moose Jaw Co-op. They have been great to us and helped us really push the program this year.”

Sept previously noted that the campaign is the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year and plays a critical role in sustaining the lunch program.

“This helps with food and supply costs for the year, and it’s our biggest fundraiser of the year,” she said in an earlier interview. “We’re serving children in all the schools across Moose Jaw, and we’re roughly sitting at 375 (children supported by the program) … numbers have fluctuated … but we’re still seeing a need, and the need is rising.”

(experience) what we do.”

Throughout the campaign, Hunger in Moose Jaw also recognized a number of community partners for their contributions, including Mosaic Belle Plaine, Farm Credit Canada, Westland Insurance, and Moose Jaw Co-op, which has supported the initiative year after year.

The number of students receiving lunches continues to fluctuate throughout the school year, reflecting changing needs within local schools. Sept said the organization remains open to welcoming community members and workplace groups who want to see the program in action.

“We have companies that phone us … (and they will have) a group of employees (offering) to come out. We always welcome people to come in and try that out,” she said.

In addition to financial donations, the campaign once again saw strong community involvement through volunteer participation. Several workplace teams spent time in the Hunger in Moose Jaw kitchen during the fall, assisting with daily lunch preparation and gaining firsthand experience with the scope of the program.

“We provide a full daily lunch that is made fresh every morning here in our commercial kitchen,” Sept said. “We had some groups come in … to help us out with the program and give their staff an opportunity to

As final donations continue to be tallied, Sept emphasized that every contribution directly supports the lunch program.

“Each dollar goes back into our Child Nutrition Program, and as per usual, (I just want to) give a huge thank you to the Moose Jaw community and the Moose Jaw Co-op for their support.”

For more information, visit “Hunger in Moose Jaw” on Facebook, HungerInMooseJaw.org, or reach out via email at Hunger.MooseJaw@sasktel.net or by phone at 306-692-1916.

Hunger in Moose Jaw is located at 269 Stadacona Street West.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A5

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Ag-focused mentorship group launches operations in Moose Jaw Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

A Moose Jaw-based agriculture organization focused on bringing together individuals and groups to share knowledge and expertise while supporting innovation and growth has officially launched.

The Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership (MJFFP) held its inaugural event at the Temple Gardens Centre on Dec. 15 — the luncheon featured locally sourced food — that brought together industry officials, business owners, municipal officials and politicians.

The partnership arose from an assessment that the Saskatchewan Rural Futures Industry Cluster conducted in 2023, which identified Moose Jaw as a hub for agri-value food processing and innovation, explained Elyse Simpson-Fraser, president of the MJFFP board and president/CEO of Simpson Seeds.

“With strong entrepreneurial energy, access to the major transportation routes and its proximity to the major industrial anchors, Moose Jaw represents Canada’s most fertile ground for growing agri-business,” she remarked.

The Moose Jaw Agri-Value Industry Cluster held multiple regional sessions over the past two-and-a-half years, bringing together producers, processors, educational institutions, and municipal and provincial partners, she continued.

Several organizations helped form the Moose Jaw Agri-Value Industry Cluster, including the City of Moose Jaw, the Saskatchewan Economic Development Alliance (SEDA), Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), the Saskatchewan government and industry leaders.

The aim is to build momentum to become a stronger and more collaborative organization that focuses on the agri-value economy, Simpson-Fraser said, one that drives jobs, investments and innovation, while keeping everything in the Prairie region.

The south-central region encompasses 31,000 square kilometres and includes 32 rural municipalities, 40 urban municipalities and one Aboriginal reserve, and has roughly 58,200 people, explained Melissa MacLean, a board director and marketing director for Su-

Elyse Simpson-Fraser, president of the MJFFP board and president/CEO of Simpson Seeds (at podium), speaks, while Melissa MacLean, board director and marketing director for Superior Farms, listens.

perior Farms.

Agriculture is the region’s primary driver, while the area includes some of the world’s most productive farmland that supports a strong and resilient economy, she continued.

Meanwhile, intensified cropping and livestock make Moose Jaw a compelling location for ag processing and development, and from primary production to value-added processing, ag services and small businesses, the region benefits from strong infrastructure and deep agricultural expertise, MacLean said.

Yet, she noted that the region also faces challenges, such as rural depopulation, supply chain issues and gaps in co-ordinated support, which make it difficult for ag businesses to grow and reach new markets.

“Our role is to help better connect people, resources and assets so the region can capture more value across the agri-food value chain,” MacLean added.

Simpson-Fraser acknowledged that agriculture faces some challenges and listed other issues.

For example, there is a disconnect across the food agri-value chain, where producers, processors, retailers and buyers — while doing good work — operate in silos, she said. This leads to a lack of connection, limited growth and fewer collaborative opportunities.

Secondly, opportunities to partner on projects and investments are missed because of how fragmented the industry is, Simpson-Fraser continued. So, the partnership aims to help opportunities come to the region since it contains the right people, partners and capital.

“We also heard repeatedly that there’s no single organized resource to help people navigate support infrastructure or membership, so we’re looking to help fill that gap as well,” she said.

Also, many agribusinesses struggle to expand due to gaps in knowledge, connections or equipment, while it takes a collaborative effort to help organizations grow, Simpson-Fraser continued.

As the Moose Jaw Farm and Food Partnership expands, members’ access to resources, business development, workforce connections, marketing and shared infrastructure will also grow, which will help strengthen the agri-food value chain, said MacLean.

Other benefits of membership — $50 annually — include improved access to funding, guidance and mentorship, planning tips, strengthened links to training and education partners, a stronger support network and co-ordinated storytelling and regional awareness, she added.

The found- The logo of the Moose Jaw Farm ing members of the and Food Partnership. Photo subMJFFP include the mitted City of Moose Jaw, Simpson Seeds, Moose Jaw Co-op, JGL, Community Futures South Central, SEDA, WOWFactor Media, The Wandering Market, AGSocial and memoryKPR. Visit mjffp.ca for more information and to become a member.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

PAGE A6 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

PRAIRIE SOUTH

Over $650,000 spent on tenders in Prairie South during past two months

SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT PSSD BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, JAN 6, 2026

Prairie South School Division spent more than $650,000 on tenders during the past two months, with projects ranging from cleaning services to computer purchases to interactive display boards to stage equipment.

Division administration presented several tender reports during recent board of education meetings, with the documents showing roughly $653,918.45 worth of tenders issued between Oct. 1 to 31 and Nov. 1 to 30.

In October, the educational organization awarded tenders for:

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

• \$244,113 to Macarenas Cleaning Limited for facility operator services at Assiniboia Seventh Avenue School for a three-year term • $243,331 to Beaton Equipment for facility operator services at Assiniboia Elementary School for a threeyear term • Total: $487,444 In November, the division awarded tenders for: • $25,188 to Long & McQuade to purchase flipFORMS’s multi-position choral risers/convertible staging;

Long & McQuade is the manufacturer’s preferred Canadian vendor • $18,084.95 to CDW Canada Corp for interactive display boards • $23,201.50 to GenX Solutions for laptop and desktop computers • Roughly $100,000 for facility operator services to Macarenas Cleaning Limited for a three-year term to manage office locations in Moose Jaw; the contractor had the highest number of criteria points, at 89.73 out of 95 possible points • Total: $166,474.45

Ron Purdy, superintendent of finance, told the board that the computers the division purchased in November were acquired at the same price as other technology that GenX Solutions provided in previous tenders in 2024.

Meanwhile, Prairie South will use the flipFORMS’s multi-position choral risers/convertible staging at A.E. Peacock Collegiate, he added.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

Prairie South appoints 10 directors to oversee bursary fund Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Prairie South School Division (PSSD) has appointed 10 directors to a committee that manages a bursary fund carried over from the former Moose Jaw school division.

During their December board meeting, trustees voted to have Jeff Feeley, Mary Jukes, Al Kessler, Aline Kirk, Darcy Dumont, Amanda Olson, George Patterson, Bob Symenuk, Ron Purdy and Greg Veillard serve on the Moose Jaw School District No. 1 Bur-

sary Fund Inc. for 2026.

Symenuk was the only new appointee; former directors Pam Ludwar and Doreen Majeran did not return.

According to a board report, the fund is a separate legal entity that the former Moose Jaw School Division No. 1 established to collect and invest money donated to provide scholarships to deserving students. PSSD’s board of education is now the sole member of the fund and must appoint directors.

The bursary fund has registered the business name Prairie South Schools Bursary Fund, so it can be seen as more than just a City of Moose Jaw fund. The money held in trust by the school division for scholarships has been transferred to the bursary fund.

It is important to understand, said the report, that the transfer of funds does not change anything for any individual scholarship except where the money is housed and accounted for and

the interest return it earns.

The report did not mention how much money is in the fund, although administration noted in the past that Prairie South — through the account — distributes almost $80,000 annually to students attending a post-secondary institution.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

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PRAIRIE SOUTH SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT PSSD BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, JAN 6, 2026

Prairie South School Division paid over $300,000 in carbon tax expenses on its utility consumption last year, although that number could decline next year after Ottawa “zeroed out” the tax earlier this year.

Board trustees received the 2024-25 buildings accountability report during their December meeting, which showed that the division’s carbon tax expenses were just under $320,000 on its electrical and natural gas usage.

In comparison, that number was roughly $300,000 in 2023-24, $250,000 in 2022-23, approximately $220,000 in 2021-22, roughly $160,000 in 2020-21 and almost $100,000 in 2019-20.

The electrical costs represented about 20 per cent of the carbon tax and natural gas represented roughly 80 per cent, the document showed.

Meanwhile, in 2024-25, Prairie South consumed roughly five million kilowatt hours (KWH) of electricity for almost $1.16 million, the report said.

The division also consumed just under

By Patricia Hanbidge

For Moose Jaw Express

Santa says: Ho ho ho - it is my favourite time of year! From one fellow gardener to another, I can think of endless gifts to bring to those gardeners who have been good all year long.......

Gardeners who have been good, put the garden to bed before the snow arrived. Part of that chore was to ensure that all were well watered prior to freeze up and of course any late blooming weeds were removed.

The best gardeners have hung up all their tools clean and shiny. They have cleaned off any soil that might be still hanging around and lightly oiled the working parts and of course those

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A7

Prairie South could see utility savings in 2026 with carbon tax’s removal Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

1.84 million cubic metres of natural gas for roughly $695,000.

A.E. Peacock Collegiate consumed the most electricity per day at just over 2,000 kilowatt hours, while Riverview Collegiate consumed the most natural gas per day with roughly 360 cubic metres, the document continued.

Also, the transportation shop in Moose Jaw consumed the most electricity per area, at 0.6 gigajoules (GJ) per square metre, while it also consumed the most natural gas per area, at roughly 1.5 GJ per square metre, the report added.

Trevor Payne, the buildings department manager, said that while electricity consumption rose year over year, the price increase was “relatively small.”

This, he noted, was mainly due to Ottawa applying the carbon tax until it removed the expense on April 1, which mitigated total costs.

Continuing, Payne said natural gas consumption saw a slight year-overyear increase, although overall usage remained at the historic average level due wooden handles as well. Keeping the handles lightly sanded if they are worn and then oiled will ensure in the spring that those tender garden hands do not get slivers.

All those other handy gardening tools like secateurs should be cleaned, sharpened and oiled. We often have nice warm spells in early spring where it is the perfect time to tidy up our woody ornamentals with a bit of pruning. Have your tools ready for action once the weather warms.

Gardeners whom I love to gift make that transition from the outside garden to the inside garden with grace. I know one fine gardener on my favourite list has hung grow lights in her house where she merrily grows fresh herbs.

These favourites of chefs will not only keep your fingers “in the dirt” but will also help to prepare fabulous meals even in the heart of winter. The scent that fills the air at watering time warms my cockles just dreaming of spring and getting out into the garden with my Mrs. Claus. You know that growing any little thing will help to keep away those winter blues!

to several mild winters.

“Although the carbon tax ended (on) April 1, 2025, natural gas costs remained elevated,” he continued. “This is because the bulk of our consumption occurs during the heating season, and that was prior to the tax’s removal. (So) most of the use was still taxed.”

Payne added that moving vehicles in and out of the transportation shop contributed to high usage of electricity and natural gas there.

Trustee Patrick Boyle, a regular carbon tax critic, said the division will likely see net savings during the 2025-26 year, which was positive since the trend for several years had been an increase in related expenses until it was “zeroed out” by the Liberal government.

Trustee Shawn Davidson said electricity consumption levels had declined since 2021 because the division had been installing LED bulbs and pursuing other energy efficiency projects.

However, levels have crept up recently, which made him wonder why.

In response, Payne said consumption levels have risen because the division has been adding new components — such as air conditioning units — to schools, while teachers may be leaving on their classroom lights. Also, some school buildings are used by the community daily, which also leads to higher electricity use.

Trustee Lew Young said Prairie South combined two schools into one this year, so he thought it would be interesting to see next year if the division saved money on utility and maintenance costs. He then wondered what the division was doing with the Empire and Westmount now that they were closed.

Payne replied that PSSD is still maintaining those buildings, although it is reducing the volume of heat and water to save money.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

look of not robust health. For me, I need to put on my reading glasses to see the signs of these little critters in a welllighted area!

For those good gardeners, gifts are a plenty. Think of useful things that make gardening easier or better. Quality secateurs are always appreciated.

An upgrade to grow lights is always appreciated as we never seem to have enough. Last but not least, books and more books and more books to give us appreciation of new ideas that can make our gardens even more beautiful and productive.

Winter is hard on us all - and for sure it is hard on all your houseplants.

Take pity on them and give them a bit extra help to make it through the winter and rotate them through an area where you have conveniently placed a grow light. The light in our homes in the winter has no real intensity at all at this time of year. Combined with the dry air of winter, this low light does stress your plants and leads to ill health. Spider mite infestations are prevalent so watch your plants for tiny webs and a general

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?

PAGE A8 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Eaters tired of Tom Turkey say “so long gobbler” As much as most people regard Tom Turkey as King of the Christmas dinner feast, over exposure could push some to stash turkey bones, carcass and leftover fowl into containers and freezers for resurrection at a later date.

This week’s recipes, shared by a long-time friend, offer ideas that would push turkey almost into the background, taking some, but not all, the attention away from Mr. Turkey.

••• MINI CRAB TARTS 2-3 tbsps. mayonnaise 3 tbsps. milk 1 tsp. prepared mustard 1 tsp. lemon juice 1/2 tsp. parsley flakes 1/4 tsp. onion powder 1/4 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. pepper 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese 4-5 oz. cans crabmeat mini tart shells Mix all ingredients together and carefully spoon into 36 mini tart shells.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes. Serve warm. May be frozen.

•••

CHUCKWAGON SOUP 1 lb. ground beef 1 cup chopped onion 1 large can tomatoes 4 cups water 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped carrots 1 cup peeled and chopped potatoes 2 tsps. salt 1 tsp. basil 4 bouillon cubes 2 tbsps. worcestershire sauce 1 clove garlic, minced, or garlic powder to taste 2 tbsps. barley Brown the ground beef and drain. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes.

In a large pot place the beef and onion mixture then add all other ingredients. Cover and simmer for at least 2 hours. Stir occasionally.

Serve with chunks of French bread.

••• TURKEY POT PIE Crust: 2 cups flour 1/4 cup cold water 2/3 cup margarine or butter 1/4 tsp. salt Filling:

2 1/2 cups cut up pieces of cold turkey 2 cups peas 1/4 cup diced onion 2 medium carrots, grated finely 2 medium potatoes, cut into small pieces Sauce: 3 tbsps. butter 3 tbsps. flour 1 cup Creamilk 1/2 cup chicken broth or leftover turkey gravy salt and pepper to taste To make the crust, add the cold water to the flour, salt and butter. Use a pastry blender to form a coarse mixture. Form into a ball and roll out on a floured board or cupboard.

To make the filling, add all the ingredient in a large dish. Mix. To make the sauce, mix all ingredients until all flour lumps have been removed. Add sauce to meat mixture and mix well.

Spoon filling into a 3 quart casserole and cover with pastry. Bake at 350 degrees F for 50-60 minutes.

Note: If preferred, make a top and bottom crust as for a regular pie, make small cuts in top pastry and cook as you would a pie.

Leftover pie may be frozen.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Eagles Club donates $3,500 to Moose Jaw and District Food Bank Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank received a $3,500 donation from the Fraternal Order of Eagles Moose Jaw Aerie 3395 during a presentation held Dec. 14.

The donation was made during the club’s provincial meeting, which brought members to Moose Jaw from across Saskatchewan and Alberta. In attendance were Eagles Club president Darcy Singer and secretary Lyall McQueen, along with Moose Jaw and District Food Bank warehouse supervisor Andrew Aquino and marketing specialist and event planner Toni Aquino.

The contribution forms part of the club’s annual charitable giving and comes at a time when demand for food bank services continues to climb.

Food bank representatives said monetary donations are particularly valuable, giving the organization flexibility to respond quickly to changing client needs while maximizing purchasing power. Toni Aquino noted that financial contributions also allow the food bank to prioritize essential items that may not always

From left: Darcy Singer, president of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Moose Jaw Aerie 3395; Toni Aquino, marketing specialist and event planner with the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank; Andrew Aquino, the food bank’s warehouse supervisor; and Lyall McQueen, Eagles Club secretary, during the presentation of a $3,500 donation to the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank on Dec. 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker

be available through regular donations, including fresh food, hygiene products, and culturally appropriate options.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Eagles Club for their generous donation. As the number of clients continues to rise, monetary donations are an incredible help, allowing us to stretch every dollar and purchase the food and essential items our community needs most,” she said.

Aquino added that the food bank appreciates the Eagles Club’s continued support, noting that such contributions strengthen community-based efforts to address food insecurity and support vulnerable residents.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Moose Jaw Aerie 3395 is located at 561 Home St. West and can be reached at 306-693-1496.

The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford St. West and can be reached at 306692-2911. For more information, visit “Moose Jaw and District Food Bank” on Facebook or MJFoodBank.org.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A9

Dramatic changes facing globe in years ahead A friend wondered about the age of a local politician.

I googled the age and texted him saying the politician’s school days were in the 1950s, like us.

“The fifties were great,’’ he responded.

They were. That thought got me thinking about the year 1952 when my paternal grandmother died. She was always encouraging yet kept my mind grounded.

Born in 1877 she experienced dramatic changes in her lifetime.

Trains were a relatively new technology when she was born. A steam ship took her from Europe to America.

She lived through a farm revolution, switching energy sources from horses to replacement by gasoline driven tractor chore boys.

On the home front she went from hand scrubbing clothes on a glass washboard to a manual washing machine — an early labour saving device for the

OPINION EDITORIAL:

TRADING THOUGHTS

home.

For cooking she used a coal fired stove, later using a natural gas stove when she retired. Then she also had electric lights replacing oil lamps.

Once my grandparents moved to the city they had daily delivery of milk, bread and less regular delivery of ice by horse and wagon.

She never used a refrigerator, preserving meat by making sausage or ham, or canning it in jars. Vegetables and fruit were canned in jars.

The preservation process was hard work in terrible summer heat, with no air conditioning.

She never flew on an airplane, never knew what television was. Nor had she ever heard of computers.

She did live through the first radios — a time when neighbours spent a lot of time visiting radio owners.

Yours Truly was introduced to television in 1958 while in high school.

Yours Truly has also seen many

SNAPSHOT: Christmas messages that took flight Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

SNAPSHOT: A simple classroom project turned into a meaningful holiday moment last week, as students from Our Lady of Hope Elementary School created more than 100 Christmas cards for those serving at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. Crafted by kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2 students, the cards were filled with handwritten messages, drawings, and holiday cheer for student pilots training at the base — the same pilots the children often see flying past their classroom windows. The initiative was organized by teacher Diana Trodd, with the cards presented in person by honorary colonel Crystal Froese on or around Dec. 18.

The pilots each selected a card to take with them, a small but heartfelt reminder of the community support surrounding their training this Christmas season. Pictured are four of those children looking towards 15 Wing Moose Jaw from their classroom window this December. Photo by: Crystal Froese/Facebook

By Ron Walter For Moose Jaw Express

changes since those days from cable TV to streaming, gasoline cars to electric cars.

In a few years we saw a man fly in space, followed by a man on the moon.

Those were great achievements.

While my grandmother lived through two world wars and a Great Depression, I have lived through a Cold War and the peace dividend until now.

Cars have become faster, more expensive, less reliable and less visually pleasing.

Medicines have improved so that some diseases like measles were eliminated but returned with anti-vaccine fear- mongering.

The scourge of polio was halted until the fear mongering attitude grew.

The most telling impact of new things in my lifetime has been development of the information highway — Internet, the portable phone and its marriage to the computer and Internet The latest technology has been AI

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

— artificial insemination meaning impregnating without the presence of a male — to this former farm boy.

To others AI is Artificial Intelligence — a technology that teaches computers to do tasks, even to think for themselves, or for us The new AI promises to transform the world to rapid development of life saving medications, more efficient industry.

All good things have a downside.

The downside to AI is the machine thinking for us, telling us what to do.

That kind of control is scary. If the machine were in control, a column like this would never see the light of day and the author might disappear.

Only adequate legislative controls can stop the scary part of AI from turning lives upside down.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

PAGE A10 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Reflective Moments

By Joyce Walter - for Moose Jaw Express The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.

New foods introduced to sheltered and shy reporter the ladies who were sitting around a table, taking a break from their labour of turning out the perogies and cabbage rolls for which they were famous in the city and beyond.

I joined the ladies for coffee (half coffee and half milk to kill the taste) and homemade buns and cookies. They handed me an apron and encouraged me to get up close and personal to what was happening near the stoves and workspace islands.

Perogies, I learned involved a glossy and thin dough, cut in identically-sized squares, upon which was placed a scoop of filling, then the corners were dampened and pressed together. I was encouraged to try my hand and I did, without much success. My two lovely sculptured perogies did not survive the boiling water. My mentor laughed when I looked in dismay at the dough she scooped out, dough without a filling. She used her spoon competently and salvaged a bit of the filling which had been potatoes and cheese.

The next challenge was to roll the cabbage around a dab of rice and a smattering of meat. My fingers were not agile enough to roll the cabbage so tightly and

Perogies and cabbage rolls did not become part of my dining experience until I left home to work as a reporter at Moose Jaw’s daily newspaper.

I must confess here my complete lack of knowledge about perogies. And I had only a passing idea that cabbage rolls must include cabbage, which in my experience, only belonged in coleslaw salad.

Imagine my excitement when I was assigned to visit a Moose Jaw church organization whose ladies of the congregation were famous for their assembly line production of the elusive perogies and cabbage rolls. I had no idea what I would see or hear during this journalistic venture.

I could detect the involvement of cabbage as soon as I opened the basement door of the church hall, the Kubiak Hall to be exact. I stood there, shyness still part of my venture into the newspaper business. “Shut up and listen” was a mantra I learned from the more experienced newsroom staff.

I was soon noticed by a lady who hurried over and introduced herself as Annie Norys. It soon became apparent she held a position of authority among

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in evenly formed rolls. I looked at what the ladies produced with their deterious fingers and decided my fingers were not meant for anything but the keyboard.

The ladies were kind, laughing with me and not at me. But I knew I was impeding their progress when they offered another cup of coffee and a cookie just to get me out of their work area. I wasn’t joined at the table until the regular noon hour break when I was offered a plate of perogies and cabbage rolls. I tasted both and fell in love. They beamed with pride as I ate until my plate was empty.

I made new friends that day, and I left the assignment with packages of perogies, cabbage rolls and cookies and an invitation to come back again on their work days when the ladies produced thousands of each item to prepare for the orders that would come in, the largest numbers coming, I was told, at Christmas and Easter.

Mrs. Norys invited me to call her at home on those occasions so she could put my orders away before the rush took place. I took her up on her offer and felt only slightly guilty when I was able to jump the line to claim my order. A hug from Mrs. Norys was an added incentive

21ST ANNUAL HAY AUCTION

For RON BUMPHREY

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026 - Starting at 12 Noon CST.

Location: 1 mile North of Mossbank on pavement to curve, 4 miles West to end of pavement, Prior viewing by appt. Phone Ron at (306) 354-2673. There will be no attendance sale day or bale loading. This auction will be “Online Bidding Only”. Bidding will open on Jan. 1, 2026 and begin to close on Jan. 7, 2026 at 12:00 Noon. No bales will be released until they have been paid in full. You will need to have a PAID INVOICE to pickup your purchase. Price includes loading bales until Jan. 21, 2026.

Go to switzerauction.ca to register for this auction. This auction will be a soft close on Wed., Jan. 7, 2026. There will be a 3.5% Buyers Premium plus taxes added to your invoice.

272 - Alfalfa/Crested Wheat (No Rain) (Stacks #1-#8) Crude Protein - 8.1% TDN - 65.33% Moisture - 7.9% RFV - 93.28 Catch Weights - 1326 lbs.

It is the buyers responsibility to inspect the hay to their satisfaction before buying. All hay sells as is, where is. Sold by the bale. Price includes loading bales until Jan. 21, 2026. Feed Test results are of Dry Matter basis. Bales are solid core & twine tied.

For further info call Ron at (306) 354-2673

SWITZER AUCTION

(306) 773-4200 Swift Current, Sk. SK. LIC. 914494

Website: www.switzerauction.ca

Switzer Auction

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MORE INFO ON FACEBOOK & OUR WEBSITE: www.switzerauction.ca

Bruce Switzer

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

MJPS charges 56-year-old man with second-degree murder

By MooseJawToday.com staff

Mossbank, Sk. (306) 354-2673

6 miles West on #718 Grid Road (South Side) (GPS: N49.57.17.2/ W 106.11.10.6)

to drop by the Kubiak Hall.

Over the years we in our household enjoyed many meals in the basement of the hall, followed by dancing upstairs to a variety of local bands. The highlight of every banquet was the unlimited number of perogies and cabbage rolls we could eat, along with ham or turkey, salads and an abundant supply of homemade desserts, the traditional one being ice cream and a wafer. Who indeed needed dessert after the gigantic main course just enjoyed?

The memory of the Kubiak Hall and the devoted ladies who fed so many was prompted by a recent conversation about the hall and the volunteers who were so dedicated to ensuring the lights stayed on so the hall would continue to be in demand for staff parties, dances, anniversaries and wedding banquets.

Sadly the ladies aged and eventually were unable to feed their loyal customers.

Perogies and cabbage rolls from the store just don’t taste the same as the ones I nearly learned how to make.

Glenn Switzer

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) has located a 42-year-old female, who was the subject of a previous missing person report.

On Dec. 18, the MJPS responded to a call to a residence on South Hill, where Tiffani Ellert was located deceased. The death was immediately deemed suspicious.

The next of kin has been notified.

Police immediately began an investigation, which led to the arrest of Todd Donaldson, 56, in connection with her death.

As a result of the investigation, Donaldson has been charged with second-degree murder.

He made his first appearance in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on Dec. 19, and has been remanded until January 29, 2026.

Police continue to investigate the incident and there will be no further comment at this time.

Anyone who has any information can contact the Moose Jaw Police Service at 306-694-7600 or CRIME STOPPERS at 1-800-2228477.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A11

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HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC

Ten more teachers working in Holy Trinity this year than last, data shows

SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. JAN 19, 2026.

Moose Jaw’s Catholic school division had 174 teachers working in its classrooms at the beginning of this school year, which is an increase from 10 educators a year ago, new data shows.

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division employed 304 total employees by Sept. 30, 2025, with those staff equating to 275.41 full-time equivalent (FTE) positions — full-time, part-time, and other — throughout the organization, according to data from the 2024-25 human resources accountability report that was presented during a recent board meeting.

In comparison, by Sept. 30, 2024, the division employed 292 total employees who represented 264.13 FTE positions. Therefore, Holy Trinity has 12 more staff on its payroll this year than last year.

Furthermore, this year the division has 174 teachers who equate to 164.1 FTE positions, while last year, those numbers were, respectively, 164 and 155.25 FTE positions, the report said.

So, Holy Trinity had 10 more teachers this year than last.

Button Day is every first Tuesday of the month!

On Jan 6th

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Of those 174 teachers: Three are between the ages of 20 and 24 • 17 are between ages 25 and 29 • 18 are between ages 30 and 34 • 26 are between ages 35 and 39 • 29 are between ages 40 and 44 • 20 are between ages 45 and 49 • 17 are between ages 45 and 49 • 17 are between ages 50 and 54 • 16 are over age 55 Furthermore, there are five administrators — principals and vice-principals — between the ages of 35 and 39, two are between 40 and 44, one is between ages 45 and 49, two are between ages 50 and 54, and six are over age 55, said the report.

Meanwhile, during the 2024-25 year, the division awarded 12 permanent continuing contracts to teachers, with 10 of those educators being of the Catholic faith, the document continued.

Also, Holy Trinity used career fairs, internships and advertising as its main methods to recruit “quality Catholic employees.”

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE & MAINTENANCE

The report noted that Holy Trinity used temporary and replacement contracts to determine whether to award most continuing contracts.

“This allows us to get a very good understanding of whether … an employee will make a good Holy Trinity team member,” the report stated.

However, during the year, 11 teaching staff resigned, including three who resigned and four who retired, according to the document. Also, 12 non-teaching staff resigned — three were retirements — during the 2024-25 year, including one library assistant, five educational assistants, three caretakers and three noonhour supervisors.

Meanwhile, the division recognized 38 employees with education service awards for the time they have worked with Holy Trinity, with the data showing: • Six teachers and six support staff were recognized for 10 years of service • Nine teachers and five support staff for 15 years

• Three teachers and three support staff for 20 years • Two teachers and two support staff for 25 years • One teacher for 30 years and one teacher for 35 years Meanwhile, there were zero terminations, while 26 teachers took leaves of absence for various reasons, including maternity leave, paternity leave, longterm disability, general leaves and contract FTE amendments.

Also, nine support staff took leave, including for maternity, long-term disability, extended sick leave and general leaves, the data showed.

The report added that Holy Trinity continues to have a good relationship with its teachers’ association, has “very high” staff retention rates, continues to prioritize professional development, provides enhanced employee wellness supports and is not facing any formal grievances from either CUPE or the Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

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PAGE A12 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Community band program to expand under new umbrella organization in 2026 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A long-running local band program will enter 2026 on a new page, with organizational changes intended to expand opportunities for adult musicians while creating a more sustainable and scalable model for the years ahead.

Beginning with the first rehearsal on Jan. 8, 2026, the Moose Jaw Adult Concert Band will operate under a newly formed umbrella organization, Moose Jaw Community Bands, which now has an established board and is in the process of becoming a registered nonprofit.

“There have been some changes with the community band,” said Kurt Gillett, who previously ran the Moose Jaw Adult Concert Band on his own and now serves as treasurer. “We have a board, and we’re becoming a registered nonprofit organization.”

Gillett said the shift was driven by member feedback and growing interest in additional ensembles beyond the

Students perform in an earlier concert band. Organizational changes will see the Moose Jaw Adult Concert Band move under the newly formed Moose Jaw Community Bands, with plans to expand programming for Moose Jaw’s adult musicians in 2026.

Photo by: Aaron Walker

2025 PROPERTY TAX ARREARS PAYMENT DEADLINE: DECEMBER 31, 2025 Wednesday December 31, 2025, is the FINAL day to pay any outstanding property taxes for 2025 and prior years to avoid additional penalties.

Payment Options: 1. In Person: At City Hall by 12:00 Noon on December 31.

2. Online or Telephone Banking/At Your Bank: Complete by December 31.

Note: These payments may take 2-3 business days to process.

3. City Hall Drop Box: Deposit by December 31.

4. Credit Card (New Option): Through Plastiq.

Note: Processing may take approximately 6 days.

Important: Any balance remaining after December 31 will incur a 1.1% monthly surcharge, compounded.

For details, visit the City News section at www.MooseJaw.ca.

long-standing concert band.

“This was something I wanted to do after the last season. We had a band meeting, and a lot of members wanted some more options for groups and wanted to expand what we were doing,” he explained, noting that suggestions included at least another adult group at the intermediate level and a jazz band. “If we were going to expand … it was going to be beyond my capacity to handle all of that organization.”

He added that the new structure introduces greater formality around finances and transparency, while also opening the door to potential grant funding.

The newly formed Moose Jaw Community Bands board includes chair Colleen Ostoforoff, vice-chair Dave Richards, secretary Russ Egler, and Gillett, who serves as treasurer and administrator. Gillett said the board brings significant nonprofit experience and allows responsibilities to be shared.

“We have people on the board who

SNAPSHOT: The last load Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

SNAPSHOT: A new chapter quietly turned for Parrish and Heimbecker (P&H) in Moose Jaw last week, as the final grain load was delivered to the facility’s on-site elevator. In a symbolic moment, the last delivery was made by veteran driver Kelly Bumphrey, who has hauled grain to P&H for nearly 60 years.

While the aging elevator is no longer receiving deliveries, P&H has emphasized that its farm input operations in Moose Jaw remain business as usual at newer portions of the facility that include its chemical and fertilizer warehouse. Look for further details on this transition in an upcoming edition of the Moose Jaw Express. Photo by: Ashton Bumphrey

are very experienced in being on boards and in running nonprofit organizations,” he said. “Now we have a way of offering more things, and there’s more manpower to do it … and it’s not all on one person.”

Two ensembles are confirmed for 2026, with the Beginner Band set to return on Feb. 12, following the Adult Concert Band’s return in January.

Directed by Darryl McKinnon, the Adult Concert Band will rehearse Thursdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. — a shift from its previous 7 p.m. start time. Gillett said this adjustment will avoid overlap with the Beginner Band that meets earlier on those nights.

The Beginner Band, led by Janie Froese, will rehearse on Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. once it resumes. The beginner ensemble, launched this fall, includes new and returning musicians and currently has about 18 members. Both bands operate on a $20 annual fee and are expected to run through late spring, following the school calendar.

Gillett said the new structure will allow the organization to be more responsive to member and community input as it looks ahead to future programming.

Residents interested in joining a band, suggesting a future ensemble, or providing feedback are encouraged to contact Moose Jaw Community Bands by email at MJCommunityBand@ gmail.com.

More updates are expected as the organization moves into the new year.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A13

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Some business owners ‘disgusted’ with recent SAMA appeal loss Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Some business owners are frustrated that their recent appeal of their property assessments failed, with one owner suggesting that a lack of oversight and accountability is allowing SAMA to increase property values indiscriminately.

Dodie Deets and Troy Rosenau, with Crackmasters Auto Glass, joined 95 other community businesses to appeal the valuations that the Saskatchewan Assessment Management Agency (SAMA) imposed on them this year.

The Altus Group represented the businesses at the Board of Revision (BOR) in July, with the board recently issuing a 43-page decision dismissing the group’s 10 concerns.

The Altus Group found several errors in SAMA’s assessment process and presented those issues to the board, but still lost the appeal, which was “really frustrating,” said Rosenau. However, because of past decisions, he was “not even shocked” by the result.

“I’m disgusted. As a business owner, I can’t sustain (these assessment increases) any longer,” he added. “If I get (another increase) four years from now, I’m just going to close the doors.

“… (This city) is crushing small business .”

Deets said SAMA’s valuations represented two straight years of “unfair increases” beyond the normal market trends, which have forced the business to “make difficult financial decisions.”

Continuing, Deets said they questioned the reliability of SAMA’s valuation system, as the agency had increased the number of market capitalization rate categories in Moose Jaw to 19 from 14.

This meant some categories had only one or two sales to compare, which produced “little real data” and was inconsistent.

“I just feel like they are using guesswork instead of market facts,” she remarked, noting that SAMA relies on estimates and models instead of actual property sales, thereby producing “inflated values” that don’t reflect current market conditions.

SAMA assessed Crackmasters’ building at $762,100, while its taxable value is $647,785, according to the BOR report.

Rosenau pointed out that he could never sell his Quonset hut for that val-

Gratitude runs deep.

Wishing you a safe and joyful season.

ue. In the past, his building was worth $300,000 and $400,000.

As property owners, Deets said she and Rosenau lack proper knowledge to understand SAMA’s data, formulas or calculations and how it develops assessment values. Moreover, she believes no one — not governments nor politicians — is willing to hold the organization accountable.

After receiving this year’s revaluation assessment, Deets said they spoke to several councillors about their predicament. She thought those members listened to their concerns with understanding, but later doubted that after council renewed the SAMA contract for another four years.

“So that makes me concerned,” she said, noting that Rosenau doesn’t feel that the assessment system is fair or transparent.

“There should be someone watching (SAMA) … ,” Rosenau said. “If the City of Moose Jaw had our own adjustors, we would probably be more fair.”

Deets added that they also spoke to Moose Jaw’s MLAs but felt that those elected officials did not want to take re-

sponsibility for the agency, either.

For small businesses to understand how SAMA derives its assessments, they would have to acquire “a whole other level of education” because the system is “so complex,” said Deets.

She said she was curious about how many other properties — especially residential — had been affected by SAMA’s assessment increases. However, she didn’t think it was possible to know since many owners were scared to go public.

Crackmasters has appealed the BOR decision to the Saskatchewan Municipal Board (SMB), which will review the decision but not allow any new evidence to be introduced, said Deets. Taking this step enables Crackmasters to fight for other businesses that face assessment increases next year.

Rosenau said that if they lose the SMB appeal, they won’t go to the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal, since it would be too expensive to hire a lawyer.

SAMA could not be reached by deadline.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

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PAGE A14 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. JAN 13, 2026

Non-profit organizations that address food security, housing, domestic abuse, mental health or other community programs will face heavier scrutiny if they want to commence operations due to a forthcoming bylaw change.

In a heated discussion during its Dec. 15 regular meeting, city council voted 4-3 to have city administration update the zoning bylaw so approvals of community service institutions in the C2 high-density commercial district would move from permitted to discretionary use; council will vote on the amended bylaw on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026.

In favour were Mayor James Murdock and councillors Jamey Logan, Carla Delaurier and Patrick Boyle, while opposed were councillors Heather Eby, Chris Warren and Dawn Luhning.

Eby attempted to refer the matter to the planning and development (P&D) department to review as part of its comprehensive policy development work around the Official Community Plan (OCP) and zoning bylaw. However, council defeated that motion 5-2, with Eby and Warren in favour.

Several presenters also spoke — in favour and against — to the proposed bylaw change; those comments will be featured in a separate article.

Non-profits could face heavier scrutiny with bylaw change

Governance vs. emotion Boyle, who introduced the motion, said this was “strictly a governance issue” that became easily lost in the “emotional conversation” surrounding it.

Continuing, he said his motion’s origin was not because of any specific non-profit — alluding to Hope Ministries’ new venue at 27 Hochelaga Street West — but was because the Multicultural Council had to ask council to approve its discretionary use application to put a daycare in the Town ‘n’ Country Mall.

The councillor pointed out that the zoning bylaw’s definition from 2011 about community service institutions was no longer applicable since the nonprofit sector had expanded since then.

So, he thought council should impose discretionary use on those organizations so the city didn’t continually face these concerns.

That definition reads,” A use which supplies a service to the residents of the city and surrounding area and which is based on charity, furnished or provided by charity, and is primarily dependent on aid by charity to provide the service.”

“In my simple mind (and) simple world here, how can a daycare have to go through such scrutiny and discretion and a community services institution does not?” Boyle said. “And I think that’s an equitable conversation to say, that … (both) should probably be on the same playing field.”

People are important Eby said this topic emotionally affected her, while it was an emotional issue because it dealt with residents who are struggling and whom council represents.

Moreover, many of the emails and phone calls council has received have affected the feelings. “… if this is just governance, then there is no rush to get this done by the end of January,” she continued, adding that council can address it when administration presents the updated comprehensive zoning bylaw update.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

‘Spot zoning’ never works Luhning said she opposed the motion because administration did not know how many non-profits, businesses, organizations and other groups this “wide-sweeping bylaw change” would affect in the C2 district.

Continuing, Luhning said this issue was “spot zoning,” something council pursued years ago. However, spot zoning failed since it lacked research or background information to support the change. So, this motion could make Moose Jaw less welcoming.

“This community is not (only) about all the people who are well-to-do. This community is about everybody,” she remarked, including those finding a job after years on drugs, barely surviving financially, or using charities’ services.

This problem is not going away, while passing the motion meant council members were “sticking our heads in the sand” and ignoring the issue, something Luhning refused to do. She also thought the motion was “an emotional move” on Boyle’s part.

The P&D team should review changes to the OCP and zoning bylaw and present those updates, instead of forcing non-profits to jump through hoops and have council decide whether their location is appropriate, she said.

Luhning pointed out that most people who use services of support (shouldn’t be determined as all being) drug users or criminals, but instead, could be single moms just making ends meet, or people who have lost their jobs and are attempting to survive another day.

Prioritizing safety Delaurier said she understood that Hope Ministries fit within the C2 district’s uses, continued to operate under that zone’s rules and would continue to do so even when the bylaw changed.

Yet, she thought council had a responsibility to ensure land-use decisions aligned with the strategic plan, which prioritized a “vibrant, safe and welcoming downtown” that supported Moose Jaw’s identity as a tourist destination, since that industry was an important

economic driver. “… land-use decisions must balance the services like this with the impact on the surrounding community and the capacity of municipal resources to manage safety and compliance,” Delaurier added.

Higher workload Warren said P&D already faced a heavy workload, so creating this bylaw would slow down employees’ output.

Moreover, this would “absolutely contradict” council’s decisions during the 2026 budget talks to help the department fast-track permits and reduce red tape.

Continuing, he said the bylaw’s definition of community service institutions was “very broad,” but noted that staff planned to change it. However, making the C2 district a discretionary use would negatively affect organizations “already embedded in our social fabric” if they wanted to expand or move.

Warren pointed out that council should wait for the comprehensive OCP and zoning bylaw review so they don’t face legal issues, since they could infringe on Charter rights or human rights legislation.

He added that the review process required integrity, data for good decisionmaking, and community input, and that it signalled to non-profits doing “amazing work” that the city cared about them and heard their perspectives.

Slowing the process Logan said there was plenty of speculation about what might or could happen when non-profits come forward with discretionary-use applications in the future. Yet, he believed that council would unanimously approve those requests from groups that came forward.

Continuing, he said this proposal gives council a chance to slow down the process so it could hear from the proponents and anyone with concerns.

Allowing people to voice their concerns wasn’t a “terrible thing,” while council — with help from the community — could help develop a plan that worked for everyone.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. JAN 13, 2026

The office manager of Main Street Dental is speaking out about the disruptions that clients of Hope Ministries have allegedly been causing the business since the beginning of December.

Kim Ehman was one of several presenters who spoke during city council’s Dec. 15 regular meeting, as the sevenmember body discussed changing the zoning bylaw to make community service institution groups discretionary in the C2 district instead of permitted.

Main Street Dental supported the bylaw change, and while it also supported the vital services that non-profit groups provided, the business highlighted its concerns with Hope Ministries’ new location at 27 Hochelaga Street West — a short distance from the dental office on Main Street, said Ehman.

The food security organization began operating in the former Central Lutheran Church on Dec. 1, which is when the disruptions began, she continued.

These issues have affected the business’ operations and created fear among staff

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A15

Non-profit’s clients disrupting Main Street Dental business, manager says Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

and clients, the latter ranging in age from four to 90.

Continuing, Ehman said the disruptions have affected the clinic’s workflow, as employees frequently assess the disturbances and determine if the safety of patients and co-workers in the office is at risk.

“This disruption created an environment of uncertainty and anxiety, which is detrimental to both our staff’s wellbeing and the quality of care we strive to provide,” she remarked.

Ehman recalled an incident on Dec. 3, where an employee left the building and found a man hanging off her vehicle parked on Hochelaga Street West.

She called her husband to inform him about the situation, while she managed to jump into her car as the man walked away. She also called Ehman and alerted her about the safety issue.

Continuing, she said these and other situations have heightened feelings of insecurity and concern among staff during their arrivals and departures. More-

over, these incidents have fostered an “uncomfortable atmosphere” that affects morale and productivity.

Ehman then wondered if council, in attending an appointment, could “simply shake … off and forget about” seeing an incident where a man was screaming, yelling and behaving erratically, walking in traffic, hanging on a lamppost and being arrested.

Furthermore, she wondered if members would feel safe leaving work and finding another “erratic individual” hanging off their vehicles and swinging a metal object above his head, or whether they would feel unsettled and question returning to work.

“In our community, we recognize that mental health, homelessness and addiction are ongoing struggles that affect us all,” Ehman said. “This is not a new issue, but it remains a pressing concern.”

Continuing, she said Main Street Dental remained committed to supporting residents who face addiction,

homelessness and other issues. However, since Hope Ministries opened, the business has observed “a significant increase” in incidents involving staff and patients. “… it is essential that we address these challenges thoughtfully to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our community,” Ehman added.

Asked where charities and nonprofits should be located, Ehman said she didn’t know, although she hoped an “open conversation at a table” could solve that issue. Moreover, it was “logical” for businesses and community groups to create a space that welcomed everyone.

“I’m finding that in the last few days here, there’s a lot of fingers being pointed, and it’s not helping. Nobody wins here, right?” she added. “… We have to look at (the situation) from all perspectives.”

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

New location of Hope Ministries causing concerns Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Condo owner Joanne Weisgerber was one of several people who spoke during the Dec. 15 regular meeting about a proposal to amend the zoning bylaw so community service institution organizations would be considered a discretionary use in the C2 high-density commercial district.

In introducing the motion, Coun.

Patrick Boyle said he was not targeting Hope Ministries, but wanted to create a level playing field in approving future development applications from all charities.

Condo concerns The Rutherford Condominiums, which are near Hope Ministries’ new venue at 27 Hochelaga Street West have condo owners who have many concerns about the location, although they have no issues with the services being pro-

vided.

The owners’ main concerns include safety, loitering, trespassing and panhandling, while visitors and other area residents also share the same concerns, Weisgerber said.

Meanwhile, condo owners are also concerned about their property values because all the seniors in the Rutherford building are living independently, so losing money on their unit could prevent them from moving into an assisted living centre or private care home in the future.

The building has also incurred extra expenses to change the front door’s timed locks, so they close earlier than normal. She noted that the board is considering keeping the doors locked 24 hours a day and implementing other security measures.

“… Hope Ministries made it very clear (that) they are not responsible for the individuals once they leave the property.” Asked where such non-profits should operate, Weisgerber said such groups should be in areas that don’t affect the downtown, business owners, residential neighbourhoods, schools or daycares. At this point, the crowd in the gallery began to chuckle at her suggestions.

Afterward, Coun. Heather Eby said she saw familiar faces in the gallery who didn’t support the proposed zoning bylaw amendment. Furthermore, she saw people who had survived homelessness and addictions and were now living “very productive and strong lives.”

Continuing, she said those people were doing good work and had survived because they received help from places

such as Hope Ministries, Willow Lodge and Square One. So, she thought it was unfortunate and “very sad” that residents wanted to diminish “those people” and write them off so quickly. Choking up, she said that Moose Jaw should want to support everyone in the community.

“Not everyone is successful; we know that to be true. But if you can save one, is that not worth it?” Eby wondered.

Added Eby, “It’s Christmastime, the time when we’re supposed to be charitable and kind and helping the less fortunate. What a shame that we don’t want to do that in our downtown.”

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

PAGE A16 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. JAN 13, 2026

Moose Jaw’s King George and Sunningdale schools were over 100-per-cent capacity during the 2024-25 school year, a problem that both schools have been facing for several years.

Division administration presented the 2024-25 buildings accountability report during the board of education’s December meeting. Included in that document was information about school capacity and usage rates, based on Sept.

30 enrolments.

The report said that King George School was 106-per-cent overcapacity, while Sunningdale School was 107-percent overcapacity.

King George had a full-time equivalent (FTE) student capacity of 359 students, but its FTE enrolment was 380 youths, while Sunningdale had an FTE student capacity of 408 students, but its FTE enrolment was 437 youths, the data showed.

King George has been overcapacity since at least the 2019-20 year, when its use was 101 per cent, while Sunningdale has been overcapacity since the 2020-21 year, when its use was 105 per cent, according to previous reports.

Meanwhile, the average space usage in the division was 60 per cent, while 12 schools were operating at less

Two local schools continue to operate over capacity, report shows Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

than 50 per cent capacity, with Chaplin the lowest rural building at 22 per cent and Riverview Collegiate the lowest urban building at 26 per cent, the report said.

Furthermore, Empire School and Central Collegiate were the division’s two oldest buildings, at 116 years old, while the newest building — excluding Coteau Hills Elementary, which opened this fall — was nine years old, the document added. Also, the average age of schools is 69 years.

Trustee Lew Young singled out the overcapacity at King George and Sunningdale and asked administration who was responsible for applying to the Ministry of Education for portables.

Trevor Payne, the buildings manager, said his department is allowed to apply for three portables annually, and in 2025, it applied for a portable at Sunningdale, King George and Coteau Hills.

Continuing, he said those requests go into a collective pot, while the ministry — which has a limited number of such structures — then allocates those requests based on criteria.

Prairie South will learn next spring whether its application was successful, Payne added.

Roof inspections

Prairie South conducts annual preventative inspections and warranty inspections on one-third of its buildings’ roofs and completes repairs to reduce future damage, Payne said, noting that there is 90,000 square metres (one million square feet) of total roofing across the division.

In 2024-25, the division inspected 11 roofs, including in Caronport, the Ninth Avenue board office, Riverview Collegiate, Sunningdale, William Grayson School and Rouleau School, the report showed.

Furthermore, general inspections on all buildings occur annually, with either department staff or contractors performing that work, the report added.

Some inspections focus on sprinklers, asbestos, elevators, emergency lighting, HVACs, playgrounds and sump pumps.

Health and safety Staff are given regular opportunities to enhance their knowledge about health and safety issues, with some online training platforms including the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association and the Canadian Playground Safety Institute, the document said.

Furthermore, staff inspect fire extinguishers and sprinklers annually, monthly safety meetings are held, safety

stations in the shops have First Aid kits, and 27 buildings have automated external defibrillators (AED), the report added.

Trustee Shawn Davidson inquired about the AEDs and whether staff received training to use that equipment.

Supt. Derrick Huschi said most machines are LifePaks, which come with step-by-step instructions, while newer models verbally guide users.

Continuing, he said the division discusses the AEDs during safety orientation sessions in August and demonstrates how to use them. Also, there are staff certified in First Aid and CPR in every building who oversee those machines.

Infrastructure Prairie South spent $18,791,255 on infrastructure projects in 2024-25, with work on the new Coteau Hills School — including roads and playground — comprising $16,346,379, the report said.

Also, the division spent over $1 million on upgrading rural schools and roughly $979,000 on enhancing schools in Moose Jaw, the document added.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

Construction company permitted to build 13-unit truck terminal and storage venue Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

A construction company plans to construct a 13-unit truck terminal and machinery and equipment storage venue on Snyder Road, which will support the city’s goals to attract investment and foster business growth.

During its Dec. 15 regular meeting, city council voted unanimously to approve the condominium application for 839 Snyder Road from Paice Construction.

The property is zoned as an M4 environmental low-service industrial district, is vacant, and has never been developed, although the surrounding

properties have, according to a council report.

Paice Construction plans to consolidate two lots into one measuring 8,976.66 square metres (96,623.96 square feet), with eight of the storage units measuring 97.53 square metres (1,050 square feet) and five of the storage units measuring 195.07 square metres (2,100 square feet), the document continued.

Overall, the total development will be 1,755.87 square metres (18,900 square feet).

Provincial legislation under The

Condominium Property Act, 1993, considers condo plans as subdivision plans, while under the city’s Planning and Development Act, 2007, all plans for registration must be submitted to an approving authority, the report said.

“The City of Moose Jaw is the designated approving authority within the area of its corporate limits,” the document stated.

Meanwhile, approving and registering the condo units allows Paice Construction, the applicant, to raise titles and sell the individual units, although council must give final approval for the

company to register the submitted plans, the report continued.

The document noted that the condo plan complies with the requirements of The Condominium Property Act, 1993.

“This condominium plan at 839 Snyder Road supports the long-term strategies of economic growth and partnership, as it attracts investment, fosters business growth (and) creates a hub for business development in key industries,” the report added.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. JAN 13, 2026

Minutes from city council’s Dec. 1 personnel committee meeting are shedding some light on why members dismissed former city manager, Maryse Carmichael.

According to the minutes, which council approved during its Dec. 15 regular meeting, members voted to “terminate the employment of city manager, Maryse Carmichael, effective December 2, 2025, on a without cause basis.”

Council then appointed chief of staff Rhonda Smysniuk as interim city manager effective Dec. 2.

All of council were present during the meeting, and Coun. Patrick Boyle moved the motion to release Carmichael, while only city clerk Tracy Wittke

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A17

Council dismissed city manager ‘without cause,’ report shows

was present for city administration, the minutes said.

Although the document didn’t contain any other information — council’s discussion was likely held in-camera — a source at city hall told MooseJawToday.com that members voted unanimously to release Carmichael from her position.

Council hired Carmichael — the city’s first female city manager — to a multi-year contract on May 3, 2023, with her first day commencing on May 16, 2023.

Her remuneration for that year was $128,740.35, according to the 2023 public accounts report. Meanwhile, her pay in 2024 was $208,722.51, according to

Ten residents named to two boards and committees Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

City council named 10 people to two boards and committees during its recent regular meeting, while it also appointed three council members to serve as deputy mayor and committee chairpersons for early 2026.

Council initially approved a recommendation during its Dec. 1 executive committee meeting to nominate the residents to the boards and committees, while it officially confirmed their appointments after approving the executive committee minutes during its Dec. 15 regular meeting.

Police board Council named four people to the Board of Police Commissioners for terms starting Thursday, Jan. 1, 206 to Dec. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.

Those four people include Don Hand, Kelly Baxter, Katherine King and Rebeca Johnstone; Hand and Baxter are serving commissioners, while King and Johnstone are new to the board.

Airport authority Council appointed six people to the

Moose Jaw Municipal Airport Authority for terms starting on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, to Friday, Dec. 31, 2027, or until a successor is appointed.

Those six people include Laura Lawrence, Robert Nesbitt, Levi Wood, Mitch Dougall, Denis Bandet and Graham Warner. Also, council appointed Lawrence as committee chairwoman and Nesbitt as committee vice-chairman for the same terms of office.

Council appointments Council named Coun. Patrick Boyle to serve as deputy mayor for a term starting on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, to Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.

Furthermore, council named Coun.

Chris Warren as chairman of the executive committee and Coun. Heather Eby as the chairwoman of the personnel committee for terms starting on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, to Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026, or until a successor is appointed.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

the 2024 public accounts report.

It is unknown how much remuneration Carmichael was expected to receive in 2025, while the city has not released any details about how much she was owed or whether she will receive a contract payout.

Following the Dec. 15 meeting, MooseJawToday.com asked Mayor James Murdock to clarify what “without cause” meant. He replied, “That means terminated without cause.”

Asked to clarify, Murdock said, “That would mean that former city manager Maryse Carmichael was terminated

without cause.” Asked if that meant there was no particular incident that led to Carmichael’s firing, the mayor replied, “That will remain amongst council.”

Asked if the city would pay out the rest of her contract, Murdock said council discussed that and it is following the contract.

“There will be more info that will follow,” he remarked, adding that the departments of finance and human resources would determine the timeline to release that information.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

PAGE A18 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. JAN 13, 2026

City council has approved its regular and executive committee meeting schedule for 2026, which includes an adjustment in April so a meeting does not conflict with a provincial conference.

During its regular meeting on Dec. 15, the council voted unanimously to approve the new schedule for next year, with all meetings now occurring on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, instead of Mondays.

The regular meetings start at 4:30 p.m., while the executive committee meetings commence immediately after.

However, the chairperson of the executive committee can call the meetings at any time, while there may not be any such meetings afterward.

The proposed schedule mostly maintains the status quo, although some adjustments to the regular council meeting

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

dates have occurred because of “a few specific circumstances,” the report said.

The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association’s (SUMA) convention occurs in Regina from April 12 to 15, 2026, which coincides with the regular council meeting on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, the document noted.

Since several council members traditionally attend the convention, administration recommended rescheduling the April meeting dates to the first and fourth Tuesdays of the month, the 7th and 28th, to accommodate members’ participation in the event, the report continued.

“The schedule is to provide clarity and predictability for council members, staff and the public, while incorporating adjustments for anticipated events, such as the SUMA convention,” the document said.

BIZWORLD

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express Investors must have been nice, not naughty this year.

The benchmark Toronto Stock Exchange 300 Composite Index was up 20.3 per cent just 13 days from Christmas.

U.S.A. market indexes such as the D0W 30 and the S and P 500 are also up handily.

What started as an uncertain year for markets with a new United States president has been excellent for investors, exceeding the long term average eight per cent return.

Lower interest rates and higher profits have boosted markets. Higher commodity prices for gold, silver, uranium and potash have added to Canadian returns.

Oil prices fell but the oil patch remains strong, but stocks have fallen.

This year Bizworld has reviewed only four publicly traded companies as the author slowed offerings.

In January Corteva Agri-Sciences was suggested as one to watch. Priced then at $65.28US the stock trades at

Council’s schedule for 2026 reflects shift to Tuesday meetings Meeting dates in 2026 include Jan. 13 and 27, Feb. 10 and 24, March 10 and 24, April 7 and 28, May 12 and 26, June 9 and 23, July 14 and 28, Aug. 11 and 25, Sept. 8 and 22, Oct. 13 and 27, Nov. 10 and 24 and Dec. 1 and 15.

The report added that the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ annual conference is from June 4 to 7, but that does not affect council’s meeting in June.

During the meeting, Coun. Chris Warren asked city administration whether it would include the 2027 budget discussion dates in the calendar, while he hoped council had the chance to provide input into determining those dates.

Continuing, he said he had reviewed budget processes in other cities and learned that Saskatoon finishes its discussions at the end of November, while Prince Albert does the same but sees its

Four stocks to watch updated

$66.09.

Enthusiasts had pushed the price to $77.42.

Announcement that Corteva will split into two divisions — crop protection and seeds — dampened enthusiasm.

The mature seed operation with seven per cent increase in sales will be free from any lawsuits aimed at crop protection operations like Monsanto.

The crop protection unit will continue with new products, having just released its first biological crop product.

Northwest Company, operating retail stores in the North, Alaska and the Pacific, had a rough summer from wildfires.

Far north sales fell 18 per cent due to the fires. Still sales were up onetenth of one per cent.

In the third quarter sales declined but earnings were up.

Priced at $48.88 in October the shares hit $57.95 before falling back over the fire situation to $48.10.

In July two embryonic drone

council officially approve the document in December.

Tracy Wittke, city clerk, said neither she nor the finance director had had the opportunity to discuss dates in late 2026 to discuss the 2027 budget. However, the city does post the budget schedule on its website and announces those dates during council meetings.

Jaime Ansell, director of finance, said council would “absolutely” have input into when the budget meetings occur.

She noted that she wanted to start the discussions earlier, so they didn’t run into the Christmas season. This would also ensure administration didn’t have to push those budget talks into the new year if discussions didn’t go as planned.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

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

makers — Draganfly of Saskatoon and Volatus Aerospace of Ontario —were featured.

Both are doing well getting their foot in the door, but still not earning profits Draganfly priced at $5.05 in July hit $14.46 on announcements of sales, but fell to $6.97.

Sales so far this year of $4.97 million were down by almost $1 million.

The company has achieved numerous milestones — selection by the U.S. Army and Department of Defence for two different products, a global defence contract and a heavy lift drone contract for an American U.S. telecom operation.

The company has $69 million cash as it goes after a $200 billion global market.

Volatus was 72 cents in July, now trading at 59 cents and has been at 79 cents.

The company has seen a $600,000 drop in sales to $20.34 million for a 30 per cent increase.

Highlights include: agreement to develop a battery system for defence and civil systems and the far north, agreement with an American utility to map and inspect distribution systems, a reforestation agreement, selection

by U.S. Army to supply drones, and a NATO contract.

If successful these initial orders for both drone makers could lead to larger long term deals.

The difference in price 59 cents versus $6.97 derives from the outstanding shares. Volatus has 666 million shares. Draganfly has 23.2 million.

The market values Volatus at $393 million; Draganfly at $163 million.

CAUTION: Remember when investing, consult your adviser and do your homework before buying any security.

Bizworld does not recommend investments.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A19

Long-awaited Brunswick Hotel project officially unveiled for downtown Moose Jaw Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

After years of anticipation, plans for a new downtown hotel were formally unveiled Dec. 19 as developers behind the Brunswick Hotel shared project details during a presentation at the Temple Gardens Centre.

The Brunswick Hotel is planned as a Hilton Tapestry Collection property on River Street West, marking the return of a hotel to a site long tied to Moose Jaw’s history. Project partners and community stakeholders outlined the vision, timeline and scope of the development ahead of a targeted opening in mid-September 2027.

Perry Vashee, president of Opal Hospitality, speaks during a presentation on the Brunswick Hotel project at the Temple Gardens Centre on Dec. 19. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Andy Hamilton, director of stakeholder relations and branding for the Brunswick Hotel project, said the approach has been deliberate and grounded in respect for both the site and the community. “(Part of) the focus was on understanding the site and the history that’s attached to this area … and the responsibility that comes with rebuilding something that has significance,” he said.

“We’ve been intentional about who’s involved … and who is helping us make decisions … to ensure that the direction of this project makes sense for Moose Jaw — not just on paper, but in reality too.”

Hamilton said project partners spent time walking the downtown, speaking with business owners and learning how residents use the area.

“Their role is not to replace what Moose Jaw already has; it is to help el-

The site of the proposed Brunswick Hotel is shown looking east from the Temple Gardens Centre toward Main Street North. Construction is tentatively expected to begin in early spring 2026. Photo by: Aaron Walker

our construction manager.”

Westridge Construction president and CEO Colin Olfert said early involvement allows for better alignment.

“One of the core values of Westridge Construction is high quality, and that’s one of the several things that we’re going to bring to the table,” Olfert said.

Interior designer Nina Kandeil of Toronto-based Deil Studio said the hotel’s design will reflect Moose Jaw’s history and character. “We use interiors as a canvas to tell the story of the history, the geography and the people,” Kandeil said, noting the Brunswick’s legacy as a hotel dating back to the early 1900s.

Hotel operations will be managed

by Opal Hospitality of Mississauga, Ont. President Perry Vashee said the project will combine local storytelling with Hilton’s global reach.

“It gives us the opportunity to really create a local story, but have the power of Hilton behind us,” he said, noting the important role of longterm thinking. “The Design diagrams illustrate the planned six-storey Brunswick Ho- original Brunswick tel, which is expected to feature approximately 125 guest rooms wasn’t built to be along with commercial space on the main floor. Photo by: Aaron relevant for just a

evate it in a way that feels natural and lasting and complements what we have here,” he added.

Project manager Bryce Chelsberg said the development process has been underway for several years, including co-ordination with the City of Moose Jaw and provincial stakeholders.

“Over the past three years, ownership has entrusted me with being the project manager and their representative, working hand in hand with Lin Saplys (a project manager at API Development Consultants Inc.). What we’ve come up with is what you see here on the easels today,” Chelsberg said. “We’ve now completed a tender process and successfully hired Westridge Construction to be

Walker

few years; it served this community for generations.”

Current plans call for a six-storey hotel with approximately 125 rooms.

The main floor is expected to feature commercial spaces, with discussions ongoing around food and beverage options, retail space, and potential spa amenities.

Project representatives said the hotel will meet Hilton’s parking requirement of one stall per room through surface parking on nearby properties, with existing rental stalls potentially being relocated. No parkade is being planned on the site. The hotel is expected to employ approximately 30 to 35 permanent staff, not including restaurant or retail positions.

Construction is tentatively expected to begin in early spring 2026, with weather and site conditions affecting the timeline. The project’s official website is BrunswickHotel.ca.

An architectural concept rendering shows the proposed Brunswick Hotel, a Hilton Tapestry Collection property planned for River Street West in downtown Moose Jaw. The six-storey hotel is targeting a mid-September 2027 opening. Photo by: Aaron Walker

An archival photo of the original Brunswick Hotel circa 1912. Photo by: Moose Jaw Public Library archives

PAGE A20 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

MJPS’s deputy chief reflects on successes throughout 2025 Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

From enhancing its support for traumatized children to making several significant drug busts that took illegal substances off the streets, the Moose Jaw Police Service had a busy and productive year.

During an interview by email, Deputy Chief Rick Johns discussed how 2025 went for the police service and its successes. Johns spoke for the agency because he served as the acting chief for almost nine months, after former chief Rick Bourassa resigned in January.

Priorities “I feel we had a very successful year,” Johns said.

“Our success in large part was due to our organization coming together and working closely and cohesively to move important initiatives forward despite limited resources.”

One major priority was enhancing the agency’s trauma-informed response to crimes against children, which it did by creating the Little Oak Child and Youth Justice Centre, Johns continued. Through its advocacy efforts, it received provincial and federal funding to create a new support model for the Moose Jaw area via the centre in addressing crimes against children.

This centre is important because investigations involving the community’s most vulnerable residents require much care and a multidisciplinary approach, he added.

Acting police chief Johns said he enjoyed his time as the acting police chief, while he was humbled by the support he received from officers, the police board and the community. Furthermore, there were no shortages of surprises or daily challenges.

“However, when met with optimism, careful consideration of decisions, direction and outcomes, and being surrounded by a great MJPS team, challenges were effectively managed, and it made for a positive experience,” he stated.

Johns said after his appointment, he left the deputy chief position vacant and managed both roles. However, the chief’s executive assistant retired in July, so he wore more hats, which left little time for days off.

“However, I valued this opportunity, as it assisted in further enhancing my organizational understanding and ways to identify efficiencies moving forward,” he continued.

Johns realized that the decisions the police chief makes have significant importance, as the decisions must be measured, carefully considered, unbiased and balanced with compassion. Moreover, he said those decisions must be viewed through a long-term lens of future consequences and possible negative effects on the organization and its people.

Johns added that he looked forward to supporting the new chief, Robert Davis.

Crime data

Deputy Chief Rick Johns speaks to reporters after a police board meeting in 2025. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Total crime data involving people and property declined every month in 2025, according to information the police service provided during the police board’s monthly meetings.

Johns said it’s always positive to see that data trending downward, although he cautioned that it’s “very complex” to identify a definitive cause-and-effect relationship in crime patterns. Yet, he commended the agency’s front-line officers for being the main force behind the decline of data, especially since they addressed many social disorder problems before the issues became criminal.

“This may also explain the relationship between an increase in (service) calls and a decrease in crime,” he continued, noting that front-line members, communications staff, the community services unit, plain clothes members, criminal investigators and forensic identification staff all played a role in various ways.

Service calls Meanwhile, the increase in call volumes has created challenges with resource management, Johns noted.

“We are continually reassessing our service delivery model to look for efficiencies in meeting those needs. As one example, we encourage the public to use our online reporting tool to report certain incidents,” he said.

Police are often the first contact point for people requiring assistance, especially after regular business hours, he continued. Residents call — even for noncrime issues — because they know the agency is mobile and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whereas other service providers have fewer resources and hours.

“Our focus in these situations is to connect people with the appropriate resources where their needs are better met through our partner agencies that provide the

services needed,” Johns stated.

New officers who attend the Saskatchewan Police College are receiving “extensive training” in mediation, de-escalation and other effective responses to situations, he said. Afterward, they shadow an experienced field training officer to acquire experience in helping people work through their problems and crises.

Johns noted that the MJPS’s police and crisis team (PACT) units are “viewed as a gold standard example” of how partnerships with other community agencies can be “extremely effective.”

“We are in the early stages of exploring how we may be able to increase that capacity in the future,” he added. “Our PACT officers (and mental health workers) continue to provide a vital service through their dedicated efforts.”

Poverty Poverty and related issues like homelessness continued to affect Moose Jaw in 2025, and for the police service, its role continued to focus on investigating potential criminal or statutory violations and connecting homeless people with an appropriate agency to address their needs, Johns said.

Meanwhile, the agency supported businesses through programs such as the Trespass Prevention Program, attended staff meetings to discuss situations, and encouraged shops to adopt environmental-design principles to deter crime, he continued.

For homeowners, the police service provided educational information, tips and resources through its social media channels, while it provided infographics to help residents understand their rights as property owners, the deputy chief added.

Drug busts The MJPS made several significant drug busts this year that nabbed large amounts of illicit substances and cash.

“It is somewhat counterintuitive to see crime stats rise with … drug-related offences as a positive trend,” Johns said.

Yet, those statistics increased due to officers’ enforcement efforts or long-term projects, which speaks to the success in proactive drug investigations that led to charges and significant seizures, he continued.

Removing those drugs from the streets prevented them from ending up in the hands of low-level dealers or those fighting addiction.

Continuing, Johns said the MJPS joined the RCMP’s crime reduction team in 2025, which met with early successes in drug and weapons enforcement. He added that, combined with significant street-level enforcement by front-line officers, the agency laid charges and seized products.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A21

Four new constables sworn in to the Moose Jaw Police Service Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) officially welcomed four new members to its ranks on Dec. 19, as Brody Baumann, Aman Rizvi, Shae DeMarce, and Zachary Martens were sworn in as constables.

The oaths of office were administered by the Honourable Brian Henrickson, Judge of the Provincial Court of Saskatchewan. Greetings were also delivered by Moose Jaw Mayor James Murdock, who serves as chair of the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners.

Baumann, 25, is originally from Moose Jaw and a graduate of Central Collegiate Institute. After completing his diploma in correctional studies at Lethbridge Polytechnic in 2023, he began working as a correctional officer at the Regina Correctional Centre.

“I remember the school resource officers coming to our classrooms to give presentations, and I thought it was one of the coolest jobs ever, and I immediately looked up to those officers,” he said. “I have always wanted to be a positive role model and someone that others can look up to, and I know this career will be the best place to do that. I love the community of Moose Jaw, and I am ready to work to help keep it safe.”

Martens, 23, is originally from Dalmeny, Sask., and comes to policing from a student-athlete background. He played basketball at Briercrest College for five

From left: Zachary Martens, Brody Baumann, Aman Rizvi, and Shae DeMarce are shown after being sworn in as constables with the Moose Jaw Police Service on Dec. 19.

Photo by: Moose Jaw Police Service

years and graduated in April 2025 with a degree in business.

“It is the end of a long process in which you are going through all of these steps, all in the hope of being hired,” Martens said. “So, finally finishing these things and being hired and now sworn in is very cool. It also signals the start of a new journey with the police college starting in January. That prospect is exciting to me.

“I am excited to learn what it takes to become a police officer. I am excited to do it with this class. We are going through it together, and I am excited to become closer to my new coworkers as

well as my classmates,” he added.

DeMarce, 26, grew up in Moose Jaw after moving to Saskatchewan from Brooks, Alta., and also graduated from Central Collegiate Institute. She is currently completing a bachelor’s degree in social work at the University of Regina while working as a correctional officer at the White Birch Remand Unit and Regina Provincial Correctional Centre.

“Seeing the number of female officers in Moose Jaw grow from just a few to over ten was also something I always wanted to be a part of,” she said. “I have a passion for safety and accountability and am excited to work alongside a

strong, likeminded team. I loved growing up in Moose Jaw and think it is the perfect size to raise a family and work as a police officer.”

Rizvi, 25, was born in Sri Lanka and moved to Canada with his family in 2018. A graduate of Central Collegiate Institute, he completed a Criminal Justice Diploma at Medicine Hat College in 2023.

“I have always imagined myself working within the community service industry (policing, army, CBSA, peace officers, sheriffs, etc.),” Rizvi said. “After I found out about the seminar at the RCMP Heritage Centre and attended it, I immediately felt drawn to the policing side of things.”

Police Chief Robert Davis Johns spoke about the day’s significance during his closing remarks.

“This is a very special day for these recruits,” he said. “It marks the end of one journey and the beginning of another. The hard work of these individuals got them here today to be sworn in as a member. Now the new journey begins — one that will see them serve Moose Jaw with professionalism, integrity, and their desire to keep our great city safe.”

The four new constables will begin their 21-week training program at the Saskatchewan Police College in Regina on Jan. 5, 2026, with graduation expected in July 2026.

First responders launch second annual hygiene drive for local youth Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Local emergency service agencies have launched their second annual First Responders Hygiene Drive, collecting unopened personal care products for youth in Moose Jaw who may not have access to basic necessities this winter.

The drive runs from Dec. 8 to Jan. 15, 2026, and is a joint initiative involving the Moose Jaw Police Service, Moose Jaw Fire Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Medavie Health Services West, and the Saskatchewan Conservation Officer Service.

Participating agencies are accepting unopened hygiene items such as deodorant, soap, body wash, shampoo, condi-

tioner, face wash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, dental floss, razors,

shaving cream, lotion, brushes, combs, cotton balls, and cotton swabs.

Donations can be dropped off at several locations across the city. These include the Moose Jaw Police Service at 21 Fairford Street West; the Moose Jaw Fire Department at 1205 Main Street North or 730 Lillooet Street West; the Moose Jaw RCMP detachment at 240 Saskatchewan Street East; Medavie Health Services West at 777 High Street West; and the Saskatchewan Conservation Officer Service office in Moose Jaw at 206–110 Ominica Street West.

The hygiene drive was first introduced last winter after local first re-

sponder agencies became aware that some students in Moose Jaw lacked consistent access to personal care products.

Items collected during the inaugural drive were distributed to children and youth in local schools through both the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division and the Prairie South School Division.

Once the current drive concludes in the new year, participating agencies will count and sort all of the donated items on Jan. 16, 2026. These products will then be distributed to youth within the community through the appropriate channels.

PAGE A22 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

OPINION/COMMENTARY

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

Our Obsession with Convenience is Harming Us and Our Planet

by Nick Kossovan

world consumerism. Consequently, our world is increasingly dominated by tech companies and apps, enabling us to order takeout, have anything delivered to our doorsteps, and swipe left, hoping to find our soulmate.

As we become more addicted to the convenience of shopping from the comfort of our homes, we’re inadvertently harming ourselves psychologically and environmentally.

The Sears Catalogue, founded in 1887, was the Amazon that never grew. 137 years ago, our forefathers could’ve gotten everything by mail. This would’ve made sense since cars weren’t around to make shopping and transporting purchases easy.

So why wasn’t the convenience of shopping from a mail-order catalogue widely adopted?

I don’t know. Was it the 6 to 8 weeks it took to receive your order?

There’s a lot of talk about loneliness and isolation, especially during the winter months. Would it possibly be a stretch to assume the rise in loneliness is a consequence of our taking advantage of the Internet’s many stayat-home conveniences?

Not so long ago, malls— marketplaces and shopping districts before them—were community-like hubs, akin to town squares, where you met your friends, ran into neighbours, and even made new acquaintances. You saw people, you connected.

Malls don’t only offer a plethora of retail outlets; they also provide social experiences, an experience many people are abandoning, Cash Only • Select Racks • First Come First Served instead opting to shop in the

“Comfort is the worst addiction.” - Marcus Aurelius The stickiness of the Internet and social media is largely due to our obsession with convenience. (read: instant gratification) The digital world offers an unimaginably massive and convoluted buffet of conveniences. 24/7/365 access to news and information, instant messaging, unlimited entertainment, and online shopping is accessible through your hand-held device, which is not much bigger than a credit card. In all its forms, the Internet capitalizes on the relationship between convenience and increased consumption.

Advertisers and marketers lost no time capitalizing on the golden opportunity the Internet’s convenience provides to intensify our wasteful 1st

saskpromo 468 high St. W.

overstock clothing blow out

tees - $5 hoodies - $25 Jackets - $60

most environmentally damaging way humanly possible: shopping online.

Rather than going to the store to try a jacket on to see how it fits and looks, many people now order five jackets online and return four.

Ordering online has a significant negative environmental impact. That ‘must-have’ avocado slicer you bought online will arrive in a box the size of a doghouse, packed with enough bubble wrap to protect a mini fridge.

Those over 50 can remember when shopping wasn’t a daily, let alone a 24/7/365 activity. People used to write something called a shopping list. Then, they went to the store or mall and gathered all the items on their list at once.

Then, they took their purchases home, put everything in its place, and felt the satisfaction of a job well done. On the other hand, when you order online, robots and humans, who are treated like robots, pack your Tim Hortons Original Coffee blend, Single Serve Keurig K-Cup Pods, in an oversized box and deliver it to your home along with three other giant boxes, each containing one item, which likely could have been purchased locally. Then we appease ourselves—claim we’re concerned about the environment—by stuffing all that packaging into blue bins like they’re a portal to plastic heaven.

According to the Government of Canada website (www.Canada.ca), only 9% of Canada’s plastic waste is recycled; the rest ends up in landfills, waste-to-energy facilities or the environment, such as the ocean.

Shopping online for stuff you likely don’t need, knowing its negative impact on the environment, while crying about the environment is sheer hypocrisy.

Every time you click buy it now, a tree gets its wings.

No one wants to think about the child labour in Bangladesh who made the Nike hoodie they ordered off Amazon, the ship, air, rail and truck that transported

it, or the landfill the hotdog toaster they bought on impulse—prompted by an ad you saw on Facebook—will eventually end up. We just want that t-shirt that says “Mindful.”

Online shopping is wreaking havoc on our planet’s environment.

The kicker is we’ve sold ourselves the false narrative that online shopping is eco-friendly. Making a list, getting off the couch, and getting it is much better for our environment and has the added benefit of meeting people and maybe even finding your soul mate.

Thanks to the Internet, you can go days or weeks without speaking to anyone. Time spent online is time spent being sedentary and not having real-life interactions. Online shopping reduces our social and community interactions, leading to loneliness. I’m sure you’ve noticed, as I have, that social skills, especially amongst the Millennials, Generation Z, and the current Generation Alpha, are deteriorating. You can’t experience all life has to offer sitting on a couch—I know there are exceptions.

Another reason to avoid shopping online is privacy. Going to a store is buying and leaving without creating a trail of cookies and tracking/analyzing.

Regards, Nick Kossovan

Nick Kossovan, a self-described connoisseur of human psychology, writes about what’s on his mind from Toronto.

You can follow Nick on Twitter and Instagram @NKossovan.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A23 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

The Rock League to open professional curling season in Moose Jaw in 2027 Elite circuit to feature top men’s and women’s players in the world taking ice in unique mixed-gender format Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

With the amount of success Moose Jaw has had as the host of major curling championships in recent history, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before the world’s best once again turned their eyes to Canada’s Most Notorious City.

That time will once again come in January 2027, as The Rock League will officially open the first-ever professional curling tour with a stop at Temple Gardens Centre in Moose Jaw. The Rock League features six teams, with each composed of 10 of the best men’s and women’s players in the world. Teams will play a Rock League captains Brad Jacobs, Chinami Yoshida, Korey Dropkin, Alina Patz, Bruce Mouat and RaHoman will lead their respective teams into the Temple Gardens Centre for the inaugural season in mixed-gender format featur- chel 2027. The Rock League ing a unique slate of events, with four stops in North getic and curling-savvy cities to great fanfare in 2020 and tre general manager. “Moose American venues through in Canada,” said Nic Sulsky, most recently drew fantastic Jaw has an incredible and pasJanuary and February 2027, CEO and co-founder of The support from fans from start sionate curling community, culminating with the Playoffs Curling Group, owners of The to finish this past May dur- and bringing an event of this Rock League. “Its fans under- ing the World Men’s Curling calibre to our city is truly speand Championship in April. cial.”

Moose Jaw will host the stand the sport, they elevate Championship.

“We’re absolutely thrilled While the Rock League first stop from Jan. 7-10, and the atmosphere, and want to the event promises to be a spe- have a good time, making it that Temple Gardens Centre teams will be filled with elite cial one for both the commu- the right place to open Rock has been selected as the host curling superstars, the capLeague’s 2027 season.” site for the Rock League’s in- tains of the six crews give an nity and the league itself.

Moose Jaw hosted the augural season,” said Shaunna idea of the calibre of players “Moose Jaw has a reputation as one of the most ener- Scotties Tournament of Hearts Fritzler, Temple Gardens Cen- who will be on the ice -- Ra-

chel Homan (Maple United), Bruce Mouat (Northern United). Brad Jacobs (Shield Curling Club), Alina Patz (Alpine Curling Club), Korey Dropkin (Frontier Curling Club) and Chinami Yoshida (Typhoon Curling Club).

With the elite players will come plenty of fans from around the country, and that will once again be a huge boost to tourism in Moose Jaw, as was the case with the previous two recent major event stops in the city.

“We know fans from across the country will travel here to be part of the excitement, and that energy will be felt throughout our local businesses, hotels, and restaurants,” Fritzler said. “The economic impact for Moose Jaw will be significant, and we’re proud to showcase our community, our hospitality, and our love for the sport on such a big stage.”

For more information on ticket sales and game schedules closer to the date, be sure to keep an eye on www.rockleague.com.

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We want to be your go to spot for all your beverage needs We welcome you to come and check what we have to offer. We have over 4000 square feet to serve you. If we don’t have what you are looking for just ask one of the team members and we will do our best to bring it in.

Free bag of Ice with a $35.00 purchase or more!

PAGE A24 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

New era behind the bench as Gonzalez named Miller Express head coach for 2026 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Miller Express will head into the 2026 Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) season under new leadership, with longtime assistant Michael Gonzalez promoted to head coach following Eric Marriott’s move to the Frontier League.

The club announced on Dec. 12 that Marriott has accepted a coaching position with the Ottawa Titans of the Frontier League and will not return for the upcoming WCBL season. He leaves after a tenure defined by a strong focus on player development and community involvement, establishing a foundation the franchise says it intends to build upon.

“We are incredibly proud of Eric for earning this professional opportunity and wish him nothing but success as he takes this next step in his coaching career,” the team shared in a social media post. In a press release, the organization continued: “His growth, integrity, and work ethic have been evident from day one, and while we will miss his presence in Moose Jaw, we are grateful for everything he brought to our program.

The entire Miller Express family wishes him nothing but success in this new professional opportunity.”

Marriott also shared a farewell message, reflecting on his time with the team and the community.

“Thank you to everyone in the Millers organization who believed in me as a player, coach, and most importantly, as a person. The community of Moose Jaw has helped raise me and will always be my second home.

“It’s time for me to take the next step in my career

Michael Gonzalez, right, will take over as head coach of the Moose Jaw Miller Express for the 2026 Western Canadian Baseball League season. Photo by: Moose Jaw Miller Express

by joining the coaching staff of the Ottawa Titans of the Frontier League,” Marriott added. “I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and the support I have around me. Moose Jaw, this is not goodbye, but simply see you later.”

Just days later, the Miller Express confirmed Gonzalez as Marriott’s successor, naming him head coach for the 2026 season in a Dec. 15 release. Gonzalez has spent the past five years on the Miller Express coaching staff, serving as assistant coach and first base coach.

“We are thrilled to elevate Michael into the head coach role,” the Miller Express Executive said. “His commitment to our athletes, his knowledge of the game, and his passion for the community make him the perfect fit to lead the Miller Express into the 2026 season.”

For Gonzalez, the promotion marks a significant personal milestone.

“Becoming the head coach of the Millers has been a dream of mine since I became a part of the organization in 2022. Being able to maintain what Marriott and I built means a lot to me,” he said. “Taking the next step in my coaching career, with this community behind me, is very comforting. I know they expect great baseball, and with the roster coming along nicely, I feel we will be in for an exciting summer.”

The Miller Express also announced that Geoff Freeborn will join the coaching staff as pitching coach, saying in a press release that he brings “a wealth of professional playing and coaching experience” and “will be a tremendous asset to the club’s pitching development.”

Tickets for the 2026 season are on sale now and can be purchased at MillerExpress.ca.

New pro curling league to host first games of 2027 season in Moose Jaw

By MooseJawToday.com staff

Rock League, curling’s first professional league, has announced that the Temple Gardens Centre will be the opening stop of the league’s first full season, taking place from Thursday, Jan. 7, to Sunday, Jan. 10, 2027.

The event will kick off a groundbreaking season, bringing elite global talent and an entertainment-forward atmosphere to one of Canada’s most passionate curling communities.

Launching this spring, Rock League will feature six mixed-gender, global franchises competing across multiple fast-paced formats designed to showcase the athleticism, strategy, and star power driving curling’s new professional era.

The full 2026 and 2027 Rock League season schedules can be found at rockleague.com/schedule.

“Moose Jaw has a reputation as one of the most

energetic and curling-savvy cities in Canada,” said Nic Sulsky, CEO and co-founder of The Curling Group.

“Its fans understand the sport, they elevate the atmosphere, and want to have a good time, making it the right place to open Rock League’s 2027 season.”

Moose Jaw has long been a favourite host for major curling events, drawing enthusiastic crowds and showcasing a community that rallies around worldclass competition. Building on that tradition, Rock League is poised to elevate the experience even further as it begins its debut season.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that Temple Gardens Centre has been selected as the host site for the Rock League’s inaugural season,” said Shaunna Fritzler, Temple Gardens Centre’s general manager.

“Moose Jaw has an incredible and passionate curl-

ing community, and bringing an event of this calibre to our city is truly special,” she continued. “We know fans from across the country will travel here to be part of the excitement, and that energy will be felt throughout our local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.

“The economic impact for Moose Jaw will be significant, and we’re proud to showcase our community, our hospitality, and our love for the sport on such a big stage,” Fritzler added.

Details on the schedule and ticket on-sale dates, event programming, and broadcast information will be announced in the coming months.

For updates on Rock League’s 2027 season, visit www.rockleague.com.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A25 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Moose Jaw Warriors snap six-game losing skid with win over Kelowna Rockets Brown scores twice, McKenzie has three points as Warriors head into Christmas break with 6-2 victory Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors are heading into the Christmas break in the win column.

Casey Brown scored a pair of goals and the Warriors would take a 6-2 victory over the Kelowna Rockets in Western Hockey League action on Tuesday night at Temple Gardens Centre.

The win snaps a six-game losing skid for Moose Jaw and sees the Warriors improve to 13-15-3-1, good enough for seventh place in the Eastern Conference. Kelowna falls to 15-11-3-1 and are fifth in the Western Conference.

The Warriors saw some good pressure early in the game from the line of Riley Thorpe, Ethan Semeniuk and Mathieu Lajoie -- with Lajoie and Semeniuk hitting the post on the same shift -- and not long after they’d be rewarded.

The trio finished off a tic-tac-toe passing play with Lajoie putting home a backdoor pass from Semeniuk to give Moose Jaw a 1-0 lead with 2:19 gone in the contest.

The teams settled into a back-andforth contest the remainder of the period, but the Warriors would strike again late in the frame.

It was another slick passing play in the Rockets zone, beginning with Noah Degenstein corralling the puck in the right face-off circle and ending when

Warriors forward Mathieu Lajoie leads the flyby after scoring the game’s opening goal early in the first period. Nick Pettigrew

Casey Brown tapped home a crosscrease pass from Dominik Pavlik with 3:28 remaining in the period.

Kelowna would get one back early in the second, with Kalder Varga finding plenty of time and space on a three-ontwo rush, breaking into the slot and putting home a shot top shelf blocker side with 3:02 gone in the frame.

The Rockets had the majority of chances as the period progressed, but

Warriors netminder Chase Wutzke would be up to the task of preserving the one-goal lead.

Moose Jaw would increase their edge late in the period, thanks to Kash Andresen breaking into the Kelowna zone and sending a slick drop pass back to Aiden Ziprick, who put a quick shot home for a 3-1 lead.

It was another slick passing play that led to Moose Jaw’s fourth marker.

Cohen Williams was rewarded for going hard to the net with his first WHL goal, putting home a cross-crease pass from Andresen 6:26 into the third period.

Connor Pankratz replied for Kelowna 36 seconds after that goal, getting to the slot and scoring on a pass from the corner by Jaxon Kehrig to make it a 4-2 contest.

Some good work by Pavel McKenzie on the forecheck led to the Warriors restoring their three-goal edge with 8:34 remaining in the game. The Moose Jaw overager would strip the puck from a Rockets defender on the end boards and find Brown with a quick pass to the slot, and a quick shot would see Brown score his second of the contest.

Landen McFadden scored his 14th goal and team-leading 34th point to add an extra insurance goal with just over two minutes remaining, taking a breakaway pass from McKenzie and beating Kelowna goaltender Josh Banini with a shot top shelf glove side.

Wutzke finished with 40 saves for the Warriors, Banini turned aside 26 in the Kelowna goal.

The Warriors are now off for their Christmas break until Saturday, Dec. 27 when they host the Brandon Wheat Kings. Game time is 6 p.m. at Temple Gardens Centre.

Dec 27 6 PM Moose Jaw Warriors

tickets at

Brandon Wheat Kings 110 1st ave | Temple Gardens Centre | 306-694-5711

PAGE A26 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Cyclones Press Toilers

By Robert Thomas

The quick start by the Toilers did not have the Cyclones making changes.

The Cyclones started the game with a three pointer and through almost five minutes of the first quarter held the lead.

A major part of the Cyclones game was the press and/or man to man play.

The Toilers were seemingly hemmed in by the Cyclones press and were unable to make shots due to the pressure.

The Cyclones taking off the press allowed the Toilers to play their full bench.

The Toilers next home game was on Thursday. The game was a makeup game https://www.mjindependent.com/sports/ 2025/12/16/540gvyx17kznwqr0xgd3zee xs32166

A blizzard was brewing but on Tuesday evening last week, the storm was blowing as the Central Cyclones defeated the Peacock Toilers 104 - 49 in senior boys city league basketball action.

The game featured three pointers, emotion, fast transition and a suffocating full court press in front of a packed Central gymnasium.

Cyclones Defeat Toilers In High School Senior Girls Basketball

By Robert Thomas

The signs were out as the Central Gymnasium was full as part of a ‘Pack the Gym’ night - MJ Independent photo

In a recent game where the Peacock Toilers targeted the Central Cyclones’, the Cyclones senior girls basketball team got aggressive against the Toilers.

But in the end a more aggressive Cyclones powered themselves to victory.

The Cyclones are in a bit of a rebuild this season with only three returning players from last year.

Despite the Toilers’ seeming special interest Addison Simpson managed to score 12 points.

McLean said it wasn’t a surprise the Toilers went to a zone defence but the Cyclones simply needed to adjust to open it up.

Tuesday’s game against the Toilers was the Cyclones second regular season

league game so far.

The Toilers are now on Christmas break. https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2025/12/16/cyclones-defeat-toilers-in-high-school-senior-girls-basketball

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A27 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com

Lumsden Picks Up Christmas Present Early

By Robert Thomas

game as the Devils final six points came from the line.

The win is the Devil’s first of the season tying their one-win league regular season record from last year.

Like the Toilers the Devils gave court time to the entire team.

The Toilers’ game had some strong points.

The Toilers are now on their Christmas break.

Spirits Boxed Out By Rockets

By Robert Thomas

Aggressive play, fighting for the ball and boxing out effectively lead the Assiniboia Rockets JV girls to a 66 -32 victory the Vanier Spirits junior girls basketball team on Monday evening, December 15.

For the Rockets it was a game plan that saw the visitors fighting for ball control off the back boards, in the air, on the court and even on floor.

The goal for this season is for the Spirits to improve and get better.

During the break, that runs until

https://www.mjindependent.com/sp orts/2025/12/18/0ywvddjnxrj7mlm8g9h dr5qrt5o712 The week before Christmas, it was a tough night for the Peacock Toilers senior boys basketball team as they saw a 20-point lead evaporate and turn into a 73 - 70 loss to the visiting Lumsden Devils.

The final few minutes of the game saw the Toilers running into major foul problems where the Devils capitalized.

The Toilers for their part would miss key baskets that could have won the day.

The Devils tied the game with just under two minutes to go.

The Toilers Kaisan S would score two three pointers with Tye J also notching a field goal.

But it was free throws that one the

January, the team is going to try to understand where to be offensively on the court. Create better movement and get better shots.

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PAGE A28 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Moose Jaw resident celebrates volunteer group’s centennial anniversary Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

A North American service organization is celebrating its 100th birthday and the president of the Saskatchewan chapter is reflecting on the projects that he and others have supported over the years.

Members honoured Alpha Phi Omega’s (APO) centennial on Dec. 16 and reflected on the organization’s creation on the campus of Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, in 1925. On that date, Frank Reed Horton and 13 of his fraternity brothers laid the cornerstone of what would become the largest collegiate service organization in America.

“As we reflect on a century of leadership, friendship and service, we are filled with immense pride and gratitude for the millions of lives touched by our brotherhood,” said Rex Edward Deza, a Moose Javian and president of the Saskatchewan APO chapter.

Not all fraternities reach 100 years, so hitting the century mark is a milestone for APO since that shows its principles are sustainable, he pointed out.

Alpha Phi Omega may have had humble beginnings, but it grew quickly

The logo Alpha Phi Omega’s Saskatchewan chapter. Photo courtesy Rex Edward Deza

and attracted students who sought to embody the cardinal principles of leadership, friendship and service, Deza explained.

Through countless chapter meetings, service projects and leadership roles, APO members honed their skills and learned the importance of collaboration, initiative and dedication, Deza said.

“Our alumni network boasts leaders in every field imaginable — from government and education to business and non-profit work — all carrying forward the torch of leadership ignited during their time in APO,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan chapter began on Nov. 11, 2012, and comprises alumni throughout the province who focus on upholding the fraternity’s core principles, Deza explained.

APO holds an annual activity from Feb. 26 to March 5, while it visits seniors at several care homes across the province throughout the year, he noted.

The chapter is a registered non-profit that focuses on social work and service activities in its members’ communities, while its next goal is to become a registered charitable institution that can raise funds to support people across the province and world, Deza said.

The association typically shares its daily schedule and event calendar through internal communications or social media, but its core activities remain consistently focused on the three principles, the chapter president continued.

“As the alumni association president, I am challenged to excel and demonstrate the principles of APO as a fra-

Giving blood and organizing blood drives are some activities of APO. Photo courtesy Rex Edward Deza

Rex Edward Deza (left) and his family celebrate Alpha Phi Omega’s 100th birthday with others in Saskatoon in mid-December. Photo courtesy Rex Edward Deza

ternity that is known to be of service to the community,” Deza said, noting that he wants APO to partner with other philanthropic organizations like the Shriners — of which he’s also a member — to better support Moose Jaw. Deza said he joined Alpha Phi Omega in 1998 because he saw the good work it performed, such as blood drives, food drives and cleaning up parks. Continuing, he said the non-profit moulds and shapes its members through lessons that can’t be taught in a classroom.

The Moose Javian said he’s met many members from other provinces

and the United States, where they have exchanged ideas on how to give community service. He has also enjoyed the camaraderie and friendship with the group’s brothers and sisters he’s met while travelling.

Yet, the heart of Alpha Phi Omega has always been the unbreakable bond of friendship, and for a century, chapters have been vibrant communities where individuals support one another and forge lifelong relationships, Deza pointed out.

“From late-night study sessions and fundraising events to formal banquets and road trips, the shared experiences within APO create a tapestry of memories and a network of genuine camaraderie that spans generations,” he said.

“The friendships cultivated in Alpha Phi Omega are often described as the most enduring and impactful of a member’s college experience.”

Added Deza, “Our members understand that true leadership is demonstrated through selfless action, and that giving back enriches not only the recipients but also the givers.”

Alpha Phi Omega will celebrate its centennial during its 49th annual convention in Philadelphia, Pa., from Saturday, Dec. 27 to Tuesday, Dec. 30. For more information, visit https://apo.org.

Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.

Members of Saskatchewan’s Alpha Phi Omega fraternity gather in Cypress Hills Provincial Park. Pictured at right is Rex Edward Deza, the group’s president. Photo courtesy Rex Edward Deza

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A29

Optimist Club’s ‘Name That Tune’ fundraiser returns in January Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Friendly City Optimist Club is tuning up for another evening of music, friendly competition, and community support as its annual “Name That Tune” fundraiser returns in January 2026, once again raising funds to support youth food security in Moose Jaw. The musical fundraiser will take place Jan. 21, 2026, at the Moose Jaw Public Library’s theatre, beginning at 7 p.m. The event is expected to run for approximately an hour and a half and will feature six community-based teams competing to identify songs performed live on the piano.

“I’ve been organizing this event for the last four years and we have different people that we give the money to (each year),” said Optimist Club member Gayle Jones. “Our goal at the Friendly City Optimist Club is to help children and youth in our community.”

For the second consecutive year, proceeds from the fundraiser will support Hunger in Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, with a focus on addressing food insecurity among local youth. “It’s a good cause, and it’s also a fun evening,” Jones said.

“We will have six community teams that night, and they’re the ones that will answer the questions and battle it out for the grand prize for ‘Name That Tune.’”

During the event, teams listen as each musical selection is played and

work together to identify the tune, artist, or source of the song. While the competition unfolds on stage, audience members are encouraged to follow along from their seats, with occasional opportunities to participate between rounds.

The format emphasizes entertainment and friendly rivalry rather than highstakes competition, creating an atmosphere Jones described as “relaxed, engaging, and enjoyable” for everyone in attendance.

Last year’s competition saw the Holy Trinity Catholic School Division board take home top honours.

SNAPSHOT: Christmas voices from Moose Jaw’s Chinese community Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

SNAPSHOT: As December settles in, this photograph offers a look back to the Christmas season of 1956, featuring the children’s choir of the Moose Jaw Chinese United Church. Shared by Gary Wing on social media, the image captures a group of young singers who helped bring music and togetherness to the community nearly seven decades ago, with Mrs. Quan pictured back left.

Identified by May Yee, the children in the photo from left to right are Glen Chin, Ted Mah, Soon Wong, Gary Wing, Jean Cox (Yee), Mary Ann Yee, and Donna Tang (Chow). Photo by: Gary Wing

This year’s participating teams include the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture, the Moose Jaw Wakamow Rotary Club, Dr. Michael Prestie’s dental office, the returning Holy Trinity Catholic School Division board, Hunger in Moose Jaw, and the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank.

Live music throughout the evening will once again be provided by Optimist Club member Greg Gower, who performs each song on the piano, while Glenn Hagel will return as MC. “The best thing about the evening is that we have Greg Gower on the pi-

ano and he plays all the tunes. It’s just fun to listen to him play the music and listen to everybody guess. We do have some questions for the audience in between (rounds), and we let the audience guess every once in a while,” Jones said.

“Glenn Hagel is our MC, and he’s always very entertaining so it just makes a fun night.”

While the competition belongs to the teams, audience members are welcome to play along from their seats — albeit quietly.

Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased through Optimist Club members or by contacting Jones directly at 306-693-4514. Tickets are expected to remain available at the door as well, with a cash-only payment confirmed.

The event is proudly co-sponsored by the Moose Jaw Express and the Moose Jaw Co-op.

The Friendly City Optimist Club is a youth-focused service organization dedicated to “Bringing out the best in kids” through a variety of community projects and fundraisers held throughout the year. To learn more, visit “Friendly City Optimist Club of Moose Jaw” on Facebook or MooseJawOptimistClub.

WordPress.com.

The Moose Jaw Public Library theatre is located at 461 Langdon Crescent.

PAGE A30 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

‘Little Leaders’ program helps St. Agnes students build confidence, community connections Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A student-led leadership program at St. Agnes School is helping younger students find their voice while strengthening community connections, including regular visits to residents at Pioneer Lodge.

The “Little Leaders” group, spearheaded last year by St. Agnes teacher Kaelyn Turberfield alongside colleagues Holly Crompton and Diana Osiowy, was created after staff identified a gap in extracurricular leadership opportunities for students in Grades 3 to 6.

“I work with that age group, and I’ve always said that these kids are just so eager and imaginative. They just want a meaningful voice in their school, and they don’t have as many opportunities (as older students),” Turberfield said.

“So we launched the program … and the buzz that went through their classrooms was just really cool — they were so excited to be a part of something.”

The group launched with a formal application process that required students to submit a short résumé outlining their skills and why they wanted to

lead. While all applicants were accepted, Turberfield said the process itself helped generate excitement and ownership among students.

Since then, the Little Leaders have met during lunch hours and taken on school-wide initiatives. Last year’s projects included planning Valentine’s Day and Earth Day activities. This year, the group organized a large-scale National Child Day celebration.

“They planned the entire day,” she said. “They did an assembly that was completely student-led. They troubleshot everything. They created all the documents, all the slide shows, and all the speaking MC parts. They hosted families for a picnic and had play stations circulating throughout the school that all the kids could be a part of. Our teaching staff helped with the execution as well, but the kids were the big organizers of the day … they handled it with so much confidence and we were so proud of them.”

This year also marked an expansion beyond the school itself, as the group be-

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Members of the Little Leaders group at St. Agnes School are shown in a group photo.

The student leadership initiative brings together students in Grades 3 to 6 to build confidence, leadership skills, and community connections. Photo by: Kaelyn Turberfield/ Submitted

gan visiting Pioneer Lodge once a month to connect with residents and build relationships through crafts, games, and conversation. Around seven to 10 students typically attend each visit, drawn from a core group of 10 to 15 members.

Ahead of the Christmas break this month, students shared songs from their school concert and joined residents in carolling.

“During the first couple of visits there was an apprehensiveness between the kids and the residents who live there, just because a lot of (the students) maybe don’t have grandparents or they’re not around that sort of setting very often,” Turberfield recalled. “But this visit, I think just because Christmas is naturally such a meaningful and exciting time, it was just so much more comfortable. The kids brought little booklets with all of the songs, they were using the microphones, and they were helping the residents find the songs in the book. Then they shared hot chocolate and cookies afterward and you could just see the connection they had built.”

She said students also asked thoughtful questions about what the holidays look like for those living at the lodge.

“Some of the things students were curious about were ‘What are they going to do for Christmas?’ ‘Is anyone else going to come visit them?’ and ‘Do they have Christmas dinner here?’” Turberfield said. “You could see that there was a light bulb (in their mind) — this is a really special time (of year).”

For Turberfield, those moments are at the heart of leadership development.

“I’m personally just very passionate about giving kids child-led opportunities, and I think that kids need a voice and some choice in their learning. They need to be active members in the school community,” she said.

The Little Leaders program remains open to new partnerships, and Turberfield is inviting community organizations to connect with St. Agnes School to explore future collaborations. To learn more, contact the school at 306-6941767.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A31

White Heather Youth Pipe Band to host Robbie Burns fundraiser at Bobby’s Place Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The White Heather Youth Pipe Band will celebrate Scottish culture and raise funds for its young musicians when it hosts the next Robbie Burns Night fundraiser at Bobby’s Place Olde World Tavern on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 — and everyone is welcome to attend.

The evening will feature traditional music, ceremonial elements and Highland dancing, with doors opening at 7 p.m. and entertainment beginning at 7:15 p.m. Seating is limited to just under 100 guests this year due to the size of the venue, with only one sitting planned.

Entertainment will open with the Piping in of the Haggis, performed live by band director Michelle Carline, followed by the traditional Address to the Haggis delivered by Andrew Gallagher.

The program will also include performances by youth members of the White Heather Youth Pipe Band, as well as selections by the band’s instructors.

Local Highland dancers will also take part in the evening, with performers from the Moose Jaw Highland Dancers joining the program under the leadership of Adriane Good.

All of the additional ceremonial elements commonly associated with a Burns supper — including a Toast to Robbie Burns, the Toast to the Lassies and the Reply to the Toast to the Lassies — are already in the works and will, of course, be a returning part of the evening’s program.

The fundraiser itself will include a raffle featuring a donated gift basket from Bobby’s Place, as well as a 50/50 draw. Proceeds from the event will support the White Heather Youth Pipe Band, a growing group of young musicians helping to carry forward Moose Jaw’s long-standing reputation as “The Band City.” Now moving into its fourth year, the band offers students hands-on instruction in piping and drumming while introducing them to the cultural traditions and discipline of pipe band music.

“It maybe doesn’t sound like much, but it’s kind of a niche thing that I’m trying to get out there — it doesn’t have to be, and you don’t need to have any Scottish background to play bagpipes.

We welcome all cultures and all people,” Carline said in an earlier interview,

From left: Kevin Haakenson, co-owner of Bobby’s Place, Andrew Gallagher, Michelle Carline (back row), Monica Haakenson, co-owner of Bobby’s Place, and Tom Green are pictured during Robbie Burns Night at Bobby’s Place Olde World Tavern on Jan. 26, 2024. Photo by: Aaron Walker

noting that the group included about 10 students split evenly between pipes and drums this summer.

Carline, who grew up playing in Moose Jaw’s Sprigs o’ Heather Pipe Band, said piping has given her lifelong friendships and international opportunities — experiences she hopes to pass on to the next generation.

“Bagpipes have really expanded my world,” she said. “I ended up getting to live in Scotland, and I had a new family once I arrived. ‘Oh, you play bagpipes — come join our band,’ (they said). I travelled to New Zealand … and Australia, and yeah, it has just been an amazing thing for me.”

Robbie Burns Night honours the legacy of Scottish poet Robert Burns, whose birthday is traditionally marked with music, poetry, and communal celebration. Burns suppers have been held

around the world for more than two centuries and remain a cornerstone of Scottish cultural tradition. “(Robbie Burns Night) helps brighten up a dark winter’s night and (offers) a step back to our Scottish roots, (all while we) celebrate Scotland and one of Scotland’s greatest poets,” Carline said.

Bobby’s Place, a venue rooted in Scottish heritage, has hosted Burns Night celebrations for several years, offering a fitting backdrop for the ceremonial elements of the evening.

Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased by contacting Carline at 306690-3525 or by calling Bobby’s Place at 306-692-3058. Seats can only be guaranteed for guests who arrive by 7 p.m. and late arrivals will only be admitted if space allows.

Bobby’s Place Olde World Tavern is located at 63 High Street East.

SNAPSHOT: When Santa took the chopper Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

SNAPSHOT: As Moose Jaw settles into the Christmas season, this festive throwback discovered in the archives of the Western Development Museum takes residents back to Dec. 15, 1990, when Santa Claus made one of his most unforgettable appearances in the city. Instead of arriving by his usual sleigh, Santa touched down by helicopter, landing on the museum’s roof before members of the Moose Jaw Fire Department assisted him to the ground to greet excited visitors waiting below. While an arrival like this is unlikely to be attempted today, the highflying visit remains a memorable holiday moment from Christmases past.

Photo by: WDM Moose Jaw

PAGE A32 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COMDaily • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 December 17, 2025 Sudoku Puzzles

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MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A33

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PAGE A34 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Hellings’ school Christmas store returns with record donations, volunteer support Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A holiday tradition at two local elementary schools delivered plenty of holiday cheer last week, as organizers wrapped up what they said was the largest and most well-supported year for the annual Christmas store.

The Christmas store, run by Larry and Dianne Hellings, returned to Prince Arthur School and St. Agnes School on Dec. 16, giving students the opportunity to shop for affordable gifts for their families while learning the value of giving.

“The big difference this year was that we got more donations than we’ve ever had, and the quality of these donations was superior to last year and any other year,” said Larry Hellings. “We had donations from some local businesses, like items that were brand new and specific things (for certain demographics). We sometimes have trouble getting items for dads, for example, because they’re (often) hard to buy for.”

The store serves nearly 600 students between the two schools, with children shopping during the school day and se-

Students shop for affordable Christmas gifts for loved ones during the annual school Christmas store at Prince Arthur School on Dec. 16, a long-running initiative organized

by Larry and Dianne Hellings. Photo by: Friendly City Optimist Club of Moose Jaw/ Facebook

lecting gifts priced at 25 cents per item.

Volunteers wrap each purchase on site before students take their gifts home.

This year’s store required approxi-

Moose Jaw Cycle Assoc. donates to the Salvation Army Submitted

Murray Roney representing the Moose Jaw Cycle Assoc presents boxes of toques and mitts to Major Keans at the Salvation Army. Proceeds are from the Toy Run Rib night. A cheque to the Christmas Fund was present with proceeds from the Cycle Association Annual Swap Meet. Thanks to all those who attend the events. Also thank you to Giant Tiger for their continued support.

mately 140 tubs of donated items, along with a fully loaded 16-foot trailer donated last year by Derek McRitchie of Ottawa Real Estate and made available once again for this year’s event. “(The trailer) makes a big difference, because we can load (tubs with presents) into the trailer and leave them in the trailer, and not have to unload it between schools,” Hellings said.

He added that the volume of donations exceeded expectations.

“We couldn’t actually fit (all the presents) on the tables,” he said, noting that around 60 tables were laid out in each school’s gymnasium for the market.

To source gifts for the annual market, Hellings collects donations yearround, sorting and storing them months in advance of the annual store. “I’ll start after Christmas, and hang on to (the gifts) until it’s time for the store … I’m out sorting stuff (that I have in storage) in July.”

In addition to increased donations, Hellings said volunteer support also reached a new high this year. Many were new to the program, and several have already committed to returning next year.

“We had more helpers than ever (this year). We had upwards of 18 helpers wrapping gifts on Tuesday, which just makes it go so much quicker,” he said. “They all said they’re coming back

next year, so that’s pretty amazing.”

The Christmas store began in 2012 and has grown steadily since, relying on donations from individuals, families, seniors’ residences, and local businesses.

“I think Canadians in general are very generous people,” Hellings said.

“They certainly are in Moose Jaw. I can’t believe the things that we get donated.

We wrapped up a bowl the other day and it was lead crystal. I mean, that boy went on to buy what would be at least $100 … for 25 cents. It’s amazing that somebody would put something like that in there.”

Though clearly exhausted after working hard to ensure that every student found a gift they were happy with, Hellings said watching the roughly 600 children thoughtfully select gifts, supported by a generous community, is what continues to motivate him.

“They want to take their time and buy the nicest present they can for their loved ones,” he said. “We met some amazingly kind people,” he added, referring to the volunteers, staff, and students in the program. “We can’t get over it, really — they were just such nice people.”

For now, Hellings said he is turning his attention to decorating his own home for Christmas and will resume collecting items in the new year, as planning quietly begins for the market’s return in December 2026.

Larry Hellings loads donated items into a 16-foot trailer donated last year by Derek McRitchie of Ottawa Real Estate, which continues to support the annual school Christmas store serving Prince Arthur School and St. Agnes School. Volunteers from the Friendly City Optimist Club, one of whom took this photo, assisted with loading ahead of this year’s market. Photo by: Friendly City Optimist Club of Moose Jaw/Facebook

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A35

Santa, Blue Whale Financial deliver Christmas turkey dinner to King George School Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The spirit of Christmas arrived early at King George School as Blue Whale Financial Solutions Inc. continued its long-running tradition of delivering a hot turkey lunch to students ahead of the holiday break.

The Dec. 17 event marked around a dozen years of the program, which sees the financial firm select one local school each year to receive a full Christmas dinner for students. Despite icy roads and freezing rain, the tradition continued — with Santa Claus also braving the weather to attend and spread Christmas cheer.

“Every year for the last 12 years or so, we have taken a hot turkey lunch to one of the schools in Moose Jaw,” said Kelly Binner, a financial advisor with Blue Whale Financial. “We flip between Prairie South (School Division) and Holy Trinity (Catholic School Division), and we’ve almost (visited) everybody now.”

Binner said the tradition remains deeply meaningful for the team, particularly as economic pressures continue to affect families across the community.

“It just means the world to us to be able to give back and make sure that every little tummy has a nice Christmas meal, because we all know that not everyone does,” she said.

Despite freezing rain and poor road conditions that morning, the event went ahead as planned, with staff, family members, and volunteers stepping in to ensure students were served.

“The weather didn’t co-operate quite as well today as it could have, but

South and Holy Trinity school divisions.

Binner said the goal has always been simple: to give back in a tangible way and to help students head into the holidays feeling cared for.

“We just wish everybody the best,” she said, adding, “Safe travels on these crazy roads. We hope that everybody has a wonderful and merry Christmas and feels as good as we do today.”

Blue Whale Financial has operated in Moose Jaw for more than two decades and regularly supports local causes, including health care, food security initiatives, and youth-focused programs across the city. For more information, visit BlueWhaleFinancialSolutions.com or call 306-693-3088.

Students line up for cake during the Christmas lunch served at King George School on Dec. 17. Photo by: Aaron Walker

we made it here,” Binner said. “We’ve got a few people missing who couldn’t make it in on the roads, but we filled in with some friends and family to make sure that we had enough to fill the line and ensure everybody was served and happy.”

Students were treated to a full hot turkey supper with all the fixings, prepared by Super Meats Catering, which has partnered with Blue Whale Financial since the program began. Shortly after students finished their last slices of cake, a special guest made an appearance that

Staff from Blue Whale Financial serve a hot turkey lunch prepared by Super Meats Catering to students at King George School on Dec. 17. Photo by: Aaron Walker

livened the mood even further.

“Santa is going to make a little appearance here in a bit and give out some presents,” Binner said just ahead of Saint Nicholas’ arrival. Students immediately gathered around, eager to receive a small token before Christmas Day. “It just makes us feel so good every year,” she added.

The annual school lunch program began after Blue Whale Financial learned that some local students were unable to enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner at home. Since then, the initiative has grown into a cornerstone of the company’s community outreach, rotating annually between schools in the Prairie

Santa Claus visits with students at King George School during the Blue Whale Financial annual Christmas lunch on Dec. 17. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Photos by: Aaron Walker

PAGE A36 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Saskatchewan Has Two Goods and Services Taxes

Elouise McGruther Jul 14, 1923 - Sept 24, 2003

By Richard Dowson

Alfred McGruther Apr 24, 1915 - Jul 4, 2005 Lorraine Wiltse Mar 6, 1945 - Nov 3, 2020

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal.

Love leaves a memory no on can steal.

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.

Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear.

We little knew that morning God was to call your name.

In life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you, you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you the day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories. your love is still our guide.

And though we cannot see you you are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same.

But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

Sadly missed & loved, Arlene, Arnie, Colleen, Holly and Families

TRINITY UNITED CHURCH 277 Iroquois St W Moose Jaw, SK Next Service: Dec 24th, 2025 7:00pm Rev. Doug Shepherd

In Loving Memory Jean & Archie

1911-1977 • 1908-1979

Ron, Mary & Ken

1941-2007 • 1944-2009 • 1948-2009

Mabel, Alice & Mel

1930-2013 • 1936-2020 • 1939-2025

Gone but not forgotten Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan to help your community for generations to come.

Please contact us for more information.

Moose Jaw Health Foundation 55 Diefenbaker Drive Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2 Phone (306) 694-0373

www.mjhf.org

Have you bought Toilet Paper lately? The Feds and the Province tax the crap out of it! You pay an extra 11% in taxes for toilet paper.

Is toilet paper a luxury? It is if you have just changed from using an old Sears catalogue. But, since Sears went of business, toilet paper is a necessity, not a luxury.

A 5% Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) and a 6% Provincial Goods and Services Tax make up the 11% tax applied to toilet paper.

Over the past 34 years Saskatchewan residents have become accustomed to the Federal GST. It was brought in by the Federal Conservative Government of Brian Mulrony on January 1, 1991.

The 6% Saskatchewan Provincial Goods and Services Tax is relatively new. So new it’s still called a Sales Tax. But it’s a Goods and Services Tax. The Provincial Good and Services Tax is like the Federal GST, except the PGST applies to more stuff. For example, there is no Federal GST on Insurance Premiums. The Provincial GST is changed on Insurance Premiums.

The old Saskatchewan 5% Provincial Sales Tax became the 6% PGST in 2017.

The Saskatchewan Party of Brad Wall introduced the change on March 23, 2017 as part of the 2017-18 Budget.

The 2017-18 Saskatchewan Budget increased the ‘Provincial Sales Tax’ (PST) from 5% to 6% and applied it to almost everything, making it a de-facto Goods and Services Tax. Is there good tax news?

Of course! Next time you buy toilet paper and pay the 5% plus 6% tax, be happy you don’t have to use an old Sears catalogue, or newspaper flyers or computer printer paper.

During this season of reflection and hope, W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home team extends heartfelt wishes for peace, strength, and the quiet joys of Christmas.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A37

child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.”

(Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11 ESV) The Greek word that Matthew penned concerning the wise men paying homage to the infant Jesus was proskyneo, meaning the custom of prostrating oneself before a person. The homage paid by the Magi is a public expression of worship, obeisance, and recognition of Jesus’ divine and royal status.

In medieval times, a person would officially become a vassal of a king or lord by publicly announcing allegiance to him in a formal ceremony. That ritual, was known as homage. The person knelt and placed his hands between those of his lord, symbolically surrendering himself and putting himself at the lord’s disposal and under his jurisdiction. The symbolism attached to homage eventually expanded to apply with the meaning of respect or honor in an assortment of contexts. Today, anyone can pay homage to a mentor who influenced their career or career choices by speaking highly of them or quoting their advice to others. Homage, often used with ‘pay,’ is an expression of high regard, not implying worship or prostration.

The English word homage comes from the AngloFrench word omage, derived from the Latin homo, a human being. Homage is akin to declaring that I am the lord’s man.

Honour, reverence, deference, and homage all mean respect and esteem shown to another.

Honour concerns the recognition of one’s right to

great respect or to any expression of such recognition.

To be nominated for an Oscar or a Nobel Prize is a great honour.

Reverence implies profound admiration mingled with love, devotion, or awe. As I grew older I developed a reverence for my father. The priests showed a deep reverence for the chancel area, treating every movement with care and precision.

Deference means yielding or submitting to another’s preference or judgment out of respect. The Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from group of young men showed deference to the elders Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He who explained the traditions and customs of their graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the ancestors.

Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.

Homage adds the implication of accompanying The views and opinions expressed in this article are praise to the esteem paid to another. Many playwrights those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the pay homage to Shakespeare. position of this publication.

“The angel said to the shepherds, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in “Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly east came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it highest, and on earth peace among those with whom rose and have come to worship him. . . . After listening he is pleased!” When the angels went away from them to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let star that they had seen when it rose went before them us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has until it came to rest over the place where the child was. happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child.” (Luke 2:10-17) There is no direct reference in Luke’s Gospel that the shepherds or anyone paid homage to the baby Jesus at his birth but most RENA REID nativity scenes show Mary 1926 ~ 2025 kneeling in homage to the Christ Rena May Reid of Medicine Hat, beloved wife of the late H.C. Reid, passed away peacefully, on Sunday, December 7, resting in the manger. Creche 2025, at the age of 99 years. Rena leaves to cherish her memory two sons, Clair (Denise) Reid and Dwayne (Vickie) scenes acknowledge that a mother Reid; one daughter-in-law, Susan Reid; seven grandchildren, Leigh (Rocky), Tanya (Scott), Charlotte, Candace gave birth to a tiny helpless infant yet offered homage to the (James), Dezerae, Lacey and Erin; eleven great gandchildren, Karissa, Ashley (Bob), Kacey, Amanda, Chase, Aiden, incarnate God before her, the Brielle, Dax, Lincoln, Abbey and Caitlin. Rena was predeceased by her parents Floyd and Belle Swarthout; one sister, Creator of stars lying in a manger.

Mildred; two sons Marvin and David. Rena was born January 10, 1926, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan to Floyd and Oh, what a night!

Belle Swarthout. She later moved to Hillandale, Saskatchewan where she met and married H.C. The happy couple then Columnist John Kreutzwieser loves to removed to Val Marie, Saskatchewan where she taught and was the school librarian. Rena moved back to Moose Jaw to search words and writes this weekly Word care for H.C. and her mother; then to Victoria to live out her later years with family and to get away from the snow. She then moved Wisdom column for Moose Jaw Express/ back to Medicine Hat to spend her final years close to more family. Rena loved nothing more than spending time with her family. She MooseJawToday.com. He has an interstayed active with hobbies her whole life. Some of her hobbies included cross county skiing, hiking in the hills, travelling, drama club est in the usage, origin, and relevance of and movies. Rena LOVED to write and garden. Rena joined the United Church at 13 and remained involved as long as she was words for society today. Greek and Latin form the basis of many words, with anphysically able. She started attending virtually once she could no longer be there in person. The celebration of Rena’s life will take place cient Hebrew shedding light on word usin the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. age.

Kristy Reimers-Loader celebrant. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Rena’s obituary John would like to know if anyone page on our website, for the link. Interment will take place in the Memory Garden Cemetery, Swift Current, Saskatchewan at a later has a sincere interest in a relevant word date. Those who wish to remember Rena with a donation, may do so to the charity of their choice. To leave a message of condolence that he could possibly research for an upcoming column. If so, please send your you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.

Homage

Arrangements are by the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 2V6.

Please call 1-866-526-2214 for further information.

requests to wordwisdom2021@gmail.com . Words will be selected according to relevance and research criteria. We cannot confirm that all words will be used.

PAGE A38 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress. com CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE—Zion Church at 423 Main Street North invites one and all for a 7 p.m. gathering to celebrate in song and word the true reason Christmas came to be. In addition, we also want to welcome people in January to hear our new full-time minister to the church. “ Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling on turf continues in Yara Centre Tuesday and Thursdays at 10am but taking a holiday break until Jan 6th. Cancelled for Jan 8 but resuming Tues& Thurs @10 Jan 13/26.

Scottish Country Dancing has resumed at 7 pm on Thursdays @Timothy Eaton’s Centre, 510 Main St. N. No partner required. Ages 8 and up including grandparents. Contact: Val, 306-6305790 White Heather Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw looking for new players ages eight and older.

New players will have the opportunity to try out drum sticks on pads and practice chanters with the instructors and will be introduced to some of the children already members of the band. Contact Michelle Carline at <mcarline@hotmail.com> The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. At Zion church from Sept to May. The Moose Jaw Stamp Club has resumed meeting the second and fourth Wednesday nights of the month at 7:00pm at the Lindale School staff room. For information call 306-693-5705.

Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: January, February, March, April and May. Meetings are held at Hillcrest Apostolic Church, Moose Jaw. Call or text 306 756 2819 Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. 2025-2026 Program on Monday nights from 7-9 pm at St. Margaret’s School, 449 5Th Ave NE. Dance in square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles, or doubles welcome!

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

Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com. Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well: -Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/ Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/ Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord.

Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a twelvestep program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place.

Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am. Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds. Join for friendship and support on

your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) 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 306-6928210 or emailing nsetter@moosejawlibrary.ca.

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

• The Holdovers: Show date: Saturday, Dec. 27 (rated 14A) Standalone events • Elf on the Library Shelf: The Library Elf returns hiding in a new spot each day. Children ages 12 and under can find him during each visit and enter a draw for a fun prize.

• Ugly Sweater Colouring Contest: Children ages four to 12 can design their own “ugly sweater” using a colouring template from the library (or printed at home) and return it to the MJPL by Dec. 31 for a chance to win a prize.

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

• Next Anime+ meeting: No December meeting scheduled Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 693 Fairford St W. Contact: 306-692-5453 Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59 OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Friday 9:30am4:00pm LOUNGE HOURS: Monday 10am-8:30pm; Tuesday-Friday 10am-10pm; Saturday 11am6pm; Closed Sundays VETERANS MORNING COFFEE – Monday–Friday @ 10am BINGO – Monday @ 6pm CRIBBAGE – Tuesday @ 1:30pm LEGION DARTS – Thursday @ 7pm DROP IN SHUFFLEBOARD – Friday @ 7pm MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome LEGION CURLING – Sunday @ 10am @ Temple Gardens Curling Centre – Always looking for spares.

Moose Jaw & District Seniors Assoc. Inc. Website – moosejawseniors.ca For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am – 8pm and Tuesday, Friday 8am – 4pm Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday & 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.

Everyone is welcomed.

Billiards open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. as well

as Monday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings from 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday Thursday mornings @ 9 a.m./Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m- Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 pm Skills & Drills – Tuesday @ 6pm Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Tuesdays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.

Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm Tai Chi – Starting November 25 @9am every Tuesday Line Dancing – Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Tuesday & Friday 9am to 4pm, Lounge – Friday’s 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm Tuesday Cards – 6:30pm Floor Curling – Fridays @ 1pm Bingo – Monday afternoons 1:30pm -3:30pm and Wednesday evenings 6:30pm-8:30pm Darts – Wednesday’s @ 10am Consignment Area – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-3pm, Wednesdays 10am-12pm Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net. Check them out on Facebook.

Monday: Indoor Walking – 10:45am to 12:30p.m/10:45a.m. Beginner line dance/Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 8:30a.m.

Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/10:45q.m. Fitness Class/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking - 11:30am/ Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/10:30a.m.

Euchre/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/ Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: Pickleball 8:30a.m./ Indoor Walking – 10:45am to 12:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball - 9:30am/10:45 Cornhole/Pickleball - 1:00pm Monday, January 19 - Coffee Chat with Service Canada/CRA 10:30am - 12:00pm. All Service Canada/CRA topics up for discussion, including anything income tax.

Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net • Every Monday and Tuesday 1 – 6:30 pm • Wednesday 12 – 6:30 pm/Smear starts at 12:30 pm • Thursday 12 – 6:30 pm/Crib starts at 1:30 pm.

Bring a friend or sign up for spare • Friday 1 – 10:00 pm/Shuffleboard starts at 1 pm. Bring a friend and join in!/Pool and darts start at 7 pm.

• Saturday 1 – 6:30 pm/Drop in pool in afternoon.

Meat draws start at 4:30 pm - 10 draws, 4 free draws, drink tickets, gift card, 50/50. Everyone Welcome!

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395 EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace”

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 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca.

Upcoming events Treaty Timeline: Museum guests are invited to learn about treaty history in Canada by walking along a life-size timeline display, which continues up to Jan. 3, 2026.

“Stuff the Superior” food drive: The museum is inviting residents to help fill its 1925 Chevrolet Superior with non-perishable food donations for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. Donations can be dropped off until Jan. 4 in the truck bed located in the museum lobby, with donors receiving a special WDM button as a token of thanks.

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

Snowflake seek and find: Explore the galleries to find nine unique snowflakes hidden beside different artifacts. Use the provided seek and find sheet to record your matches, then submit it when complete. The event will continue throughout December.

Toys and pastimes seek and find: Discover images of historic toys and pastimes that would have been shared during “A Christmas Long Ago” that are hidden throughout the museum’s galleries. The event will continue throughout December.

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

Upcoming courses: Contact the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-6935989 for more information.

Reminiscence Kits The museum’s Reminiscence Kits are meant to bring generations together and ignite new friendships through the sharing of memories. These kits, containing everyday artifacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, can be rented by care homes and other organizations for two weeks at a cost of $75, with an additional $25 fee for a one-week extension. Visit WDM.ca/Reminiscence to book your kit.

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

Educational programs: The WDM features several educational opportunities open for booking this school year, including dozens of in-person programs that make an ideal field trip and virtual learning options. For more information, visit WDM.ca.

Win a free field trip: Educators and community leaders are invited to enter online at WDM.ca/ FieldTripGiveaway for a chance to win one of four field trips, plus $200 to cover the cost of transportation this school year. The contest runs from until Jan. 4, 2026, with winners drawn on Jan. 7, 2026.

MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025 • PAGE A39

27 Indigo Cres

622 Fairford St E

1107 Connaught Ave

$775,000

$389,900

$174,900

867 Willow Ave

306-694-4747 324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK

Derek McRitchie (306) 631-1161 E.G. (Bub) Hill (306) 631-9966 Tanya Minchin (306) 630-6231 Cassie Nichol (306) 631-0691 Justin Hammer (306)684-4266

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How Grinch Trump Increased the Price of Coffee in Moose Jaw

By Richard Dowson

Green Onions are Scallions – Here’s how to get them FREE.

Before Trump put tariffs on Brazilian coffee, I could buy my favorite can of coffee, on sale, in a Moose Jaw grocery store for $10.00. After Trump put the tariff on Brazilian Coffee beans and other products from Brazil, the price of the same can of coffee, on sale, increased to $18.00.

I asked myself, “Self, how come a Trump tariff on Brazilian coffee beans increases the price of a can of coffee in Moose Jaw?” Turns out the beans for my favorite coffee are grown in Brazil, imported into the United States, processed there and shipped to Canada and on to Moose Jaw. So, I thought, “Since Canada doesn’t have a tariff on Brazilian coffee, Canadian coffee will be cheaper than a can of my favorite brand?”

Not so! Canadian brands I looked at are ‘specialty brands.’ As such, they are more expensive than the imported, Trump Tariff laden American brand.

By the way: The Trump Tariff was 50%, which doesn’t explain the 80% increase in the price of my favorite can of coffee in Moose Jaw. Trump is removing the Brazilian coffee tariff. Will the price of my favorite coffee go down?

I’ll have to wait and see.

I love green onions – but they are expensive. $1.99 for a small bundle of six.

The best part of the green onion is the top. Mild and tasty. Use in salads or frying.

FREE scallions (Green Onions) all summer and maybe into the fall.

You notice the scallions in the photo have the root attached! I bought one bundle of green onions, cut the bottoms off, used the tops and planted the bottom in a flower pot. They grew!

They produce huge green tops – I cut the tops and use them. The onions continued to grow and produce green tops ALL SUMMER LONG! Even after you cut off the tops.

I planted another six in a different pot. Same thing. Planting the bottom of bok choy, same thing.

Bet they’d grow in a window box over winter.

By Richard Dowson

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PAGE A40 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, December 24, 2025

SNAPSHOT: A very ‘pawsitive’ Christmas visit

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

SNAPSHOT: Shortly before Christmas, K-9 officers from the Moose Jaw Police Service and the Saskatchewan Conservation Officer Service visited the Pediatrics Unit at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital to spread some holiday cheer. As part of the K9 Cops for Kids program, the local visit joined others taking place across the province, bringing smiles to young patients through time spent with four-legged partners and the delivery of toys for children who may be spending Christmas in hospital care. Photo by: Moose Jaw Police Service