Moose Jaw Express, March 26th, 2025

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MOOSE JAW’S HOMEGROWN NEWSPAPER

Moose Jaw’s Tim Hortons franchise owners celebrate 30 years of business

For Don and Kathy Howe, celebrating 30 years as Tim Hortons franchise owners in Moose Jaw is more than just a business milestone — it’s a testament to the strength of their community and the relationships they’ve built along the way.

“We are thankful for the huge amount of community support we have received over 30 years,” Don said. “We are grateful to have turned it into a family business as two of our children are directly involved in the day-to-day operations.”

The Howes opened their first Tim Hortons franchise in Moose Jaw in 1995. Since then, their commitment to providing a welcoming space for customers has helped them grow, with three locations in Moose Jaw and further expansions in Weyburn and Maple Creek.

“We always strive to provide a welcoming environment for everyone and make them feel at home,” Don said. “We are also proud to provide an inclusive, diverse, safe, and welcoming work environment for our teams.”

Their dedication to both staff and customers has fostered a deep connection with the community. Many of the team members have built close relationships with regular guests, something Don said

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and Kathy

their 30-year

is at the heart of their success.

Howe

Over the years, the Howes have achieved significant milestones, such as being one of the first Tim Hortons locations in Canada to implement a nosmoking policy. They also navigated challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, keeping their restaurants open and employees working.

Sponsoring Timbits hockey and soccer, supporting Camp Day fundraising, and running the Smile Cookie cam-

paigns are some of the most rewarding experiences, Don said. He added that it’s amazing to see kids wearing their jerseys and knowing they’ve made a difference through local charities.

The couple’s commitment to giving back remains unwavering, with tens of thousands of dollars raised annually for community causes.

“We wouldn’t be able to give back to the community without the incredible daily support of our guests,” Don said. “Kathy and I were so fortunate to come back to Moose Jaw and begin this journey in 1995. Now that our children are involved, we look forward to another 30 years.”

As the Howes celebrate three decades of memories, they remain grateful for the support that has made Tim Hortons a staple in Moose Jaw.

“Moose Jaw has been a fantastic place to raise our family and greet so many great people in our restaurants and lives,” Don said. “We are so thankful to all our guests for making Tim’s part of their daily routine.”

For the Howes, it’s not just about serving coffee — it’s about serving the community.

Don (left)

(right)

celebrate

anniversary as Moose Jaw Tim Hortons franchise owners this March. Photo by: Tim Hortons Moose Jaw

NDP candidate Britt Baumann launches campaign in Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan

Britt Baumann is stepping into the political arena as the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan in the upcoming federal election.

A resident of Dundurn, Sask., Baumann said she is committed to providing a stronger progressive voice for the region in Ottawa.

Baumann highlighted key policies the NDP helped negotiate with the federal government, including the $10-per-day childcare program, the expansion of dental care, and the introduction of a pharmacare program. She said she hopes to build on those successes if elected.

This is Baumann’s first time running for office — but she’s no stranger to politics. With a PhD in public policy and a master’s degree in sociology, she has built a career as a research academic. Her work has largely focused on First Nations policy development, particularly in negotiating impact benefit agreements and supporting Indigenous communities with resource management decisions.

“I’ve written a paper about land management on reserve lands,” Baumann said. “I think it’s really important that we do things like honour the treaties. This riding has Treaty 4 and Treaty 6, and I

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think it’s very important to honour those treaties.”

Baumann pointed to the Piapot and Whitecap First Nations as communities she hopes to build partnerships with, advocating for a collaborative approach to development on traditional Indigenous lands.

Platform priorities

eral issues she believes are critical to the region, including housing, economic security, and support for military families.

al government needs a robust plan to protect Canadian workers from potential job losses that could result from the tariffs.

A call for solidarity

Baumann said she believes the upcoming federal election could be one of the most important in recent Canadian history. She urged voters to stand together and uphold Canadian values in the face of what she called a growing threat of U.S. influence.

“We have this threat where the United States wants to annexe us,” she said. “But we’re Canadians, and we’re Canadians on purpose. We’ve got values that we want to uphold.”

Baumann emphasized the importance of economic resilience through domestic production and encouraged Canadians to support local industries.

“I think that we should be concentrating right now on buying Canadian, on sharing our Canadian values, and just being together in solidarity to help each other in this time of crisis,” she said.

To learn more about Britt Baumann and her campaign, visit BrittBaumann. NDP.ca.

She advocates for the construction of 5,000 new military family housing units across Canada, aiming to ease what she described as a nationwide shortage.

Baumann’s platform addresses sev-

Baumann is also concerned about the economic impact of U.S. tariffs under the Trump administration, and said the feder-

The next federal election is scheduled to take place as soon as Monday, April 28.

Britt Baumann is announcing her candidacy for the Moose Jaw-Lake Centre-Lanigan riding for the NDP in the upcoming federal election. Photo by: Aaron Walker

RBC Foundation donates $800K supporting Sask. Polytech’s sustainable energy training

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has received an $800,000 donation from the RBC Foundation to enhance training programs for students entering the sustainable energy sector this month.

The announcement was made at the Macoun Lounge of the Moose Jaw Sask. Polytech campus on the morning of March 20, underscoring a shared commitment to preparing a workforce adept in green technologies.

This substantial contribution aims to bolster Sask. Polytech’s Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades by updating curricula and introducing new courses focused on renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and biofuels. The initiative aligns with Canada’s objective of achieving a net-zero economy and addresses the anticipated shift in the job market.

“3.1 million Canadian jobs — or 15 per cent of the labour force — will be disrupted over the next 10 years as the country transitions towards a net-zero economy,” said Kim Ulmer, RBC’s regional president. “This donation is in-

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tended to help students upskill to take advantage of significant opportunities, with 235,000 to 400,000 new jobs predicted to be added in fields where enhanced skills will be critical.”

Sask. Polytech’s programs are designed to be responsive to both industry and student needs, offering flexibility and maintaining an academic focus that aligns closely with applied research.

The RBC Foundation’s donation supports the evolution of Sask. Polytech’s programming to enable broader accessibility through the creation of additional electives, new micro-credentials, custom training, and the adaptation of content within existing courses.

“Thank you to RBC Foundation for your continued support to ensure our graduates are ready to help shape the sustainable energy sector workforce,” said Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask. Polytech’s president and CEO, during the presentation. “We currently offer multiple sustainability-focused courses, and this funding will allow us to leverage our resources and expertise to offer additional

Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask. Polytech, speaks at the Moose Jaw campus on March 20. Photo by: Saskatchewan Polytechnic

programming and build new courses to enable students to gain green skills needed for their future careers.”

The donation will also leverage Sask. Polytech’s existing infrastructure, such as the Energy and Resources Lab at the Moose Jaw campus. This 1,000-square-foot (92.9 square metre), net-zero facility focuses on sustainable energy technologies, smart grids, and energy-efficient home

Sask. Polytech is a signatory of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)

Accord, a global initiative to further the United Nations’ sustainable development initiative. This funding contributes to five specific SDG goals — four, seven, nine, 11, and 13 — which include ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

The partnership between RBC Foundation and Sask. Polytech takes a proactive approach to addressing the evolving demands of the energy sector by equipping students with essential skills and knowledge. As Canada transitions to a greener economy, this collaboration enhances career prospects while supporting environmental sustainability.

For more information about Sask. Polytech’s Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades, visit SaskPolytech.ca/ About/Faculty-Of-Technology-AndSkilled-Trades.

To learn more about Sask. Polytech and its range of program options, visit SaskPolytech.ca.

The Sask. Polytech Campus in Moose Jaw is located at 600 Saskatchewan Street West.

Powering the future with sustainable skills

Saskatchewan Polytechnic extends heartfelt appreciation to RBC Foundation for their generous $800,000 donation. The donation helps enhance sustainability programming, leveraging existing infrastructure and equipment, such as the Energy and Resources Lab.

Thank you, RBC Foundation, for your commitment to applied education and sustainability. Find out more at saskpolytech.ca

Editor’s Note

JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR

Life goes by so fast; I can hardly believe it!

Throughout my life, with my parents and my siblings, we have always had a close relationship but sometimes we haven’t always got to know each other in a deeper and more meaningful way.

By this I mean, we go on with our lives and the days accumulate to years and decades onward, but sometimes we don’t take the time to really get to know each other for the special human being we were created to be.

Mom was a communicator and shared a lot of her not so happy upbringing and life story with us kids, feelings and such, maybe more so for myself and my two other sisters because we were females, not sure about my brother as he was always out and about doing guy things.

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

Our father, on the other hand, was a hard-working man and very seldom had time to settle down with us kids enough to talk and communicate on that level. Quite a few years ago my sister, an inquisitive soul, told him that we didn’t know anything about him and that he should start letting us know about himself, otherwise the years would go by and we wouldn’t know anything about his life.

For families, my philosophy is that relationships are based on open communication; the more we know, the better we are able to understand. I guess that goes with almost everyone we want to have a closer relationship with.

My husband and I have been very blessed to be able to connect with our two sons and their families on a one-on-one basis fairly often throughout the year, even though we live here and they live on the coast. The grandboys are growing up so fast (two age nine, one six and one four); it’s hard to keep up with them and what’s going on in their lives.

Recently one family presented us with a book

called, “From Me To You - A Family Circus Gift Album for Grandparents.” And from the first page onward, this is a chronicle of their lives in 2025– (nine years and six years to date), with drawings and words done by them. How precious is that as a keepsake! Brought me to tears.

At the same time, grandpa and grandma were each presented with books to fill out for each of our four grandsons. The book, “Dear Grandma…from you to me” is a journal of a lifetime that I need to fill out for each one of them. It’s going to take some time! The book is meant to be a treasured book of my past, key memories and experiences and the individual story about me and each individual grandson and my thoughts about them from birth onward.

Grandpa has his own books to fill out. I can’t tell you how many memories, feelings and thoughts this book will invoke but I can assure you there will be lots of tears…but great satisfaction in knowing that they will know more about me and my love for each of them!

Moose Jaw Salsa Club to host third community dance event on March 29

The Moose Jaw Salsa Club is inviting the community to join in the rhythm of Latin dance at its third community dance event later this month.

Individuals aged 16 and over are invited to the dance at Against the Grain Studios, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and running until approximately 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 29.

“This is a place to go to dance salsa, share with people from other cultures, and enjoy life,” said Marcela Borrero Cruz, founder of the Moose Jaw Salsa Club.

Attendees will be treated to a unique performance by Cruz herself, who brings more than eight years of experience as a dancer and instructor. She will present a fusion of belly dance and bachata, showcasing her diverse training in Latin dance forms including salsa, champeta, and Colombian folklore.

“My goal is to be a part of and encourage cultural diversity here in Moose Jaw — a place that has welcomed me with open arms and has become my home,” Cruz said.

In an effort to foster a creative community, the club is also extending an in-

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vitation to local artists who may wish to display their talents.

“We are making a call to all artists who would like to show their work,” Cruz said. “We have a beautiful space where we can cultivate art and continue to promote it.”

Cruz encourages dancers, singers, and other performers to reach out and get involved, adding that the club hopes to create a larger creative network in Moose Jaw.

The night’s theme will be “celebrate salsa in all its forms,” with a variety of styles to encourage everyone to get on the dance floor in what she hopes will be a night to remember. The club will also hold a raffle that night for a chance to win a spot in the next bachata course. Cruz also plans to recognize and thank community members who have supported the club since its inception in March 2024.

Upcoming dance courses

In addition to the March 29 event, the Moose Jaw Salsa Club is launching two dance courses in the coming months.

• Belly Dance: A five-week begin-

ner program will run from Saturday, April 12, until Saturday, May 24. Courses will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

• Bachata: A seven-week course designed for beginners will run from Saturday, April 12, until Saturday, May 24. Courses will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“I would like to invite everyone over 16 years old to join,” Cruz said. “These are courses for beginners and

we are waiting for all those who want to enrol.”

Cruz emphasized the importance of offering an outlet for both physical and emotional well-being through these events.

“I would like to say to all the residents how much you need to have entertainment in your life,” she said. “Leave behind the work, the problems, all the worries that we all have, and go and smile and dance.

“You’re going to meet new people, new languages, new dances, new cultures, and you are going to leave this event full of energy and smiling.”

The entrance fee is $10 per person which includes a drink and a five per cent discount on the club’s next belly dance or bachata course. Tickets are limited, so everyone is reminded to register well in advance.

For more information and to purchase tickets, contact Cruz at 1-639538-0062 or preferably by email at MarcelaBorreroC.Dancer@gmail.com.

The upcoming dance will take place at Against the Grain Studios, located at 33 High Street West.

Don’t miss our pre-planning seminars

Join Michael Penner for an informal 90 Minute Seminar. Your free meal is courtesy of Moose Jaw Funeral Home. Learn the benefits and steps of pre-planning.

Tuesday, April 1 st

~ Houston Pizza

117 Main Street North, Moose Jaw 6:30pm (your choice from the

Tuesday, April 8 th

~ Rodo’s Pizza Event Room 9th Avenue South & Grandview Street, Moose Jaw 6:30pm (your choice from the menu)

Mulberry Estates residents showcase artistic talents at March craft fair

Atria Mulberry Estates buzzed with creativity and community spirit during its recent Maker’s Showcase craft fair, where residents proudly displayed a selection of their handcrafted treasures throughout the home.

The afternoon event was part of the home’s “Social Series” program and showcased the artistic talents of Moose Jaw’s older residents on March 20.

One of the featured artisans, Lana Hawman, presented a collection of handmade baby blankets, baby cocoons, preemie hats, dishcloths, doilies, slippers, and door hangers. Hawman shared her journey into the world of yarn and needles, stating, “I taught myself how to crochet, and my mom taught me how to knit.” She emphasized the sense of personal fulfillment her craft brings, and said the social series program is quite enjoyable.

Another participant, Clarissa Hampton, attended on behalf of her sister, Rachel, who is autistic and finds solace in crocheting.

“She (my sister) has to keep her hands busy, and she ends up with all this in her room,” she said, pointing to the diverse range of hand-made crafts on the display table. “I’m here to (help) sell it for her while she’s working.”

Resident artist Laurie Langford exhibited her diverse creations, including quilts and one of her newest projects — frying pan art.

“I do (artwork projects with) frying pans now,” she said. “(This one) says ‘Welcome,’ and you just hang it on the wall for a welcome sign.”

The fair also featured Shirley Nielsen, who showcased her intricate doodles on the home’s second floor and

shared insights into her family’s artistic lineage. She recounted how her son created a piece titled “Eye of the World,” with the pupil as a globe and a teardrop reflecting deep emotion.

Nielsen also shared the story of when her daughter crafted a realistic hamburger from plaster of Paris and the family was left to wonder why it stayed “fresh” on the coffee table a day or two later. Her husband joined her but humbly admitted he wasn’t as artistically inclined, saying, “I’m just the guy who looks at stuff I like” with a chuckle.

Elizabeth (Bessie) Listoe, another resident with her display table on the home’s third floor, displayed impressive

pencil sketches from when she was 19 years old during her studies at the Summer School of the Arts in Emma Lake,

Sask. During high school at the Academy of Sion in Moose Jaw, she won the art award and later studied under Leslie Groome at the Moose Jaw Teachers’ College.

Reflecting on her work, Listoe mentioned, “It never occurred to me to try to sell them; they were just pencil sketches.” She also highlighted her family’s artistic roots, sharing that her sister Joan is “more prolific,” and said it all started when her father — himself an artist — drew pictures and “egged us on.”

The social event was organized under the guidance of Sydney Azure, the engage life co-ordinator.

Mulberry Estates welcomes guests of all ages to its next social series event, “Afternoon Tea,” set to include lawn games, pastries, and finger sandwiches on Thursday, April 10. For more information call 306-694-5020 and ask to speak with Tricia Oblander.

Atria Mulberry Estates is located at 220 Mulberry Lane and prides itself on providing exceptional care for adults over the age of 55. For more information visit AtriaRetirement.ca or “Atria Mulberry Estates” on Facebook.

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Laurie Langford showcases a selection of her artistic creations at Mulberry Estates on March 20. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Elizabeth (Bessie) Listoe shows one of her earliest pencil sketches, completed when she was 19 years of age. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Lana Hawman showcases some of her hand-made knitting projects at Mulberry Estates on March 20. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Shirley Nielsen holds up one of her pencil sketches on March 20. Photo by: Aaron Walker

By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express

Chores for spring!early

Sometimes it seems that winters are long, but once we get through January – we truly are looking at the end of winter. The days are getting longer and the mercury in many locations is on the plus side of zero! What that means is spring is on the way!

It is the last chance to get planning on what is going to happen in your garden or landscape this growing season – especially if you are going to be making any radical changes to your space. If you like to start your own seeds, you may have already ordered them or perhaps already are watching the magic of tiny little seeds becoming plants that will grace our gardens come May.

If you are ready to get gardening, then it might be time to ease into the gardening chores. Try not to overdo it

all at once as gardening muscles have been resting for the long, cold winter. If you have not kept up your personal physical fitness since fall, then do yourself a favour and work into gardening slowly. Make use of those lovely mornings and evenings going for a brisk walk (where the ice has melted) followed up by some simple stretching exercises...using of course those same muscle groups you will use all summer long in the garden.

As the snow recedes and the soil dries, it is a great time to clean up the borders. Take away any dead plant parts, dig out any offending dandelions that seem to be already so green but take some time to ponder what is coming up. I find that each spring I get a few surprises. Things seem to be sprouting in places where you can’t quite remember planting something! I guess that is what we call a “spring bonus”!

It is also a good time to tidy up the

garden shed or garage. The temperatures are warm enough that it is not an ordeal to be outside for longer periods of time. Take a look at your tools, clean them up, sharpen them and get rid of what you do not use. The expression spring clean-up is generally meant to be for your garden – but for me – it is for every part of my property! It is such a great feeling to dispose of clutter!

If you still have not done your spring pruning – you still have a little bit of time. Try not to miss this chore as pruning later in the year is not ideal for most of our woodies. The rapid growth of spring will ensure that any wounds caused by pruning will heal over quickly thus reducing any chance of disease transfer. Remember that it is not a good idea to do catch up pruning but instead to do a little bit each year. Do not remove more than one third of the canopy in any given year.

If you have any trees or shrubs that need moving, then as long as the soil is not too wet but is fully thawed then this is a good time to do this rather big chore. The buds have not yet burst so moving anything at this time will be the least risky time of all. Better yet, anything you move will have the entire growing season to get reestablished.

Rake your lawn areas if they are

dry enough. It is amazing how this small chore really spruces up the landscape. It seems that the grass areas turn green overnight once they have some of that thatch removed. It is a bit early to fertilize with conventional inorganic fertilizers as that will encourage fast green growth that is susceptible to late spring frosts.

Pay close attention to any seedlings you have growing inside. If you have started your seeds without additional lights and have them sitting on a windowsill you will likely have noticed them reaching for that sun. Try to give them all the light possible as if you find them reaching for light the seedlings will be less strong and more susceptible to stresses like disease.

Happy Spring!

Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at info@orchidhort.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?

Tariff wars, price outlook affects planting

The turmoil of lower global grain prices and threats of tariffs on exports have influenced crop planting intentions in Canada.

Acreage intended for wheat, oats, soybean, lentils and fall rye is up in the Statistics Canada planting intentions survey.

Acreage of everything else will be reduced by as much as 20 per cent.

The dafa was collected before China slapped 100 per cent tariffs on canola and peas, although farmers knew about an investigation by China.

Farmers may still adjust acres for the tariffs.

Wheat is once again the top acreage crop, up 2.6 per cent to 24.47 million acres, the largest planting in three years.

Canola plantings are down 1.7 per

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cent to 21.6 million acres but Saskatchewan farmers planned a 1.2 per cent increase to 12.2 million acres.

Within wheat durum stays about the same at 6.3 million acres; spring wheat is up 2.5 per cent to 19.4 million while winter wheat jumps 15 per cent to 1.7 million acres.

Saskatchewan wheat acres remain unchanged at 24.2 million with a bit less spring wheat and more durum.

Barley is a big loser at almost 13 per cent for 6.28 million acres, reflecting lower prices.

Saskatchewan barley growers bucked the trend with 3.7 pet cent more for 3.4 million acres.

Flied peas gain 9.5 per cent to 3.72 million acres while lentils are down .8 per cent to 4.17 million acres. Saskatch-

ewan lentil acres are down 1.7 per cent to 3.6 million.

Oats acres are up 2.7 per cent to 2.98 million while fall rye jumped 56 per cent to 646,000 acres.

Flax acres of 448,000 are down 11 per cent for the smallest acreage in three years.

Chickpea acres of 453,000 are down 5.7 per cent while dry beans fall 11 per cent to 357,000 acres.

Canary seed dropped 20 per cent to 232,000 acres with sunflowers down 25 per cent to 59,000 acres.

Soybeans are up 1.4 per cent to 5.37 million acres. Summerfallow, down 17.3 per cent to just over one million acres, is lowest in three years.

Studio Orange moves to permanent new home, expands wellness programs for women

Studio Orange, a women’s-only movement studio in Moose Jaw, has officially opened its doors at a new location, marking a significant milestone in its mission to empower women through wellness.

The studio is an extension of Orange Door Collective Wellness, and is now situated at 441 Fairford Street West.

The transition to a new space began at the end of February following the completion of renovations at the existing building. The inaugural session commenced during the week of March 3, thereby signalling the start of a new chapter for the studio.

Owner and operator Kate Bookout expressed her enthusiasm about the move.

“Having our own space allows me to better serve the women of our community by having the flexibility to create our own schedule of class offerings, versus previously working around other schedules in the spaces I have rented,” Bookout said.

Studio Orange offers a variety of programs tailored to women at different stages of life, including spin classes, strength training, TRX, and 55-plus programs.

A notable addition is the Womb Wellness Collective Program, designed to support women who have experienced perinatal loss, fertility challenges, or are currently pregnant. This smallgroup training program provides a supportive and inclusive environment for participants.

Bookout elaborated on the studio’s mission, saying, “We are welcoming to women of all ages, activity levels, and wellness journeys. Our mission is to assist women alike in creating their own unique definition of wellness.”

The decision to establish a dedicated space stems from Bookout’s desire to expand and enhance the services she offers. After three years of renting various spaces, she felt it was time to grow the business and provide a consistent environment for clients.

“It was time to make the move, not only to grow my business, but to expand our offerings,” she said.

In addition to the new location, Studio Orange recently participated in its first community event, aligning with

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two babies in our hospital, giving back to (the MJHF) is a way to give thanks for the wonderful support and dedication of our medical staff,” she said.

To learn more about Orange Door

its commitment to women’s health and community engagement. The studio hosted two pop-up exercise classes on March 8 in celebration of International Women’s Day. These classes were offered by donation with a $15 registration fee.

The initiative successfully raised $430 for the 800 CHAB Family First Radiothon, a fundraiser supporting the Moose Jaw Health Foundation (MJHF). Demonstrating further commitment, Bookout pledged to match the amount raised, bringing the total contribution to $860.

“As we are a women’s only movement studio, it is important for us to be involved in supporting women-based causes and organizations in our community,” she explained.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be allocated for essential medical equipment. These include wireless cardiac monitors for both mothers and babies, neonatal monitors, and Panda Beds. These advancements are crucial and will support the approximately 500 babies born each year at the hospital.

Kelly McElree, director of the MJHF, expressed gratitude for Studio Orange’s involvement.

“We are so thankful that Studio Orange came forward and said, ‘We want to help out,’ which is fantastic. We’re very, very thankful for their support,” he said.

Bookout, herself a mother who has delivered two babies at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, feels a personal connection to the cause.

“As a mother who has delivered

Collective Wellness and upcoming program options, phone 306-630-5264, visit OrangeDoorCollective.ca, or follow ‘Studio Orange by Orange Door Collective Wellness’ on Facebook.

Kate Bookout is the owner and operator of Studio Orange in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Lauren Witikowski, Lauren Victoria Photography

MOOSE JAW BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS NOTES THE NEXT POLICE BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, APRIL 8TH

MJPS to spend $2.4M on equipment purchases in next five years

The Moose Jaw Police Service plans to spend more than $2.4 million during the next five years through its equipment reserve budget, which includes over $720,000 for smaller items like computers.

The 2025-29 equipment reserve budget is based on the depreciation of inventory items, with the organization funding amortized amounts annually as an operating expense, according to a report presented during the recent Board of Police Commissioners’ meeting.

The budget lists equipment that is fully amortized, due for replacement or new to inventory this year. The organization gives each item a replacement value and a lifespan value, while depreciation is the replacement value divided by the lifespan value.

The board report indicated that the police service’s 2025 reserve contribution requirement from the operating budget is $304,516 for major equipment and $128,421 for small equipment, for a

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total of $432,937. However, a credit of $21,574 from interest on the control account reduces that number to $411,363, which is $25,225 more than last year’s contribution requirement.

Small equipment

The police service requires $203,999 for small equipment purchases this year, while it requires $180,413 next year, $103,633 in 2027, $97,489 in 2028 and $135,863 in 2029, for a total of $721,397, the report said.

The amount of money available from depreciation is $631,747, while $89,650 will come from the control account, which combines to form the fiveyear total.

Some small items the agency plans to purchase this year include laptops, desktop computers, hand-held radar units, body armour, a TV, iPads, mountain bikes, mobile radar units, traffic direction equipment for crashes, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), tactical equipment, handguns and red-dot gunsights.

Major equipment

The agency plans to spend $92,000 this year to purchase four major items, the report said.

The includes a biometric sensor for $14,000, a K-9 dog for $17,000, six carbines for $21,000 and an unmarked patrol vehicle for $40,000.

Meanwhile, the police service plans to spend $426,100 next year on 12 items, such as traffic radar units, radio systems, workstations, software and vehicles.

In 2027, the organization plans to spend $350,000 on five items, $352,748 for 10 items in 2028 and $465,000 on five items in 2029.

Therefore, the total amount the police service requires for minor and major equipment purchases is $295,999 this year, $606,513 next year, $453,633 in 2027, $450,237 in 2028 and $600,863 in 2029, for a total of $2,407,245, the report showed.

The organization expects to have $2,277,652 available from depreciation

during that period, with $129,593 to come from the control account to top up the purchase requirements.

Uncompleted works

The equipment reserve budget report lists 18 items worth $1,023,378 this year as “uncompleted works,” which, according to police, are items the organization has yet to purchase, have not arrived or haven’t needed to be replaced.

“We must carry those items and the money associated with them over each year to be able to confirm that those funds are available for those items,” a spokesman said.

Some major items include an intoxilyzer, Versaterm software and hardware, a forensic drying cabinet, a prisoner van, building security for cells, vehicles, a printer and mobile radar units.

The report added that there is $243,760 worth of small equipment items on the uncompleted works list, which brings the total amount to $1,267,138.

U.S. tariffs could increase costs of bullets and vehicles, MJPS says

The Moose Jaw Police Service is monitoring how U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs will affect Canada considering those extra costs could increase the purchase price of gun ammunition and vehicles.

The issue of tariffs arose at the Board of Police Commissioners’ March 19 meeting during a conversation about the police service’s 2025-29 equipment reserve budget. During that discussion, one commissioner asked whether police leadership had concerns about equipment or other items coming across the border.

Acting Police Chief Rick Johns was unsure what percentage of equipment was coming across the Canada-U.S. border, saying while the agency attempts to purchase new vehicles locally, other manufacturing costs could increase those expenses at the point of sale. Therefore, everything depends on

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

what the police service buys and from where it sources those materials, he added.

These tariffs could “be a moving target” during Trump’s presidency over the next three-and-a-half years, said Commissioner Jamey Logan. The board is aware of this problem, so it may have to review the MJPS’s annual equipment reserve requests as the agency sends out tenders.

Speaking with reporters afterward, the deputy chief said the cost of bullets has increased by 10 per cent year over year, and while the agency doesn’t know what the exact cost will be, it anticipates further expense increases.

“We’re reaching out to a number of different vendors all across the country and probably further,” Johns said. “I’m leaving that to the capable hands of some of our people in the firearms section that handle that. But they’re go-

ing to be shopping around for the best price.”

According to ammobin.ca, the cost of .40-calibre bullets ranges from $27.00 for 50 rounds to $639.99 for 1,000 rounds, or per round, 54 cents to 64 cents.

A police spokesman said by email that the MJPS uses semi-automatic pistols (9-millimetre or .40-calibre), rifles (.308-calibre), shotguns (12-gauge) and carbines (5.56-mm and semi-auto).

Furthermore, the agency uses training ammo (lower cost) and duty ammo (higher cost), so the cost depends upon availability, supply, demand, calibre and manufacture; costs are roughly $1 per round.

“In terms of the amount that we buy, that varies year-to-year depending on mandated firearms training requirement and additional training that the MJPS would conduct internally to ensure a

high level of proficiency,” the spokesman added.

With the equipment reserve, when the police service purchases gear, it amortizes those items over several years so it has the money to replace them, Johns explained. The organization will determine if it has enough money this year to replace some pieces, and if it doesn’t, it may defer those purchases or prioritize needs-based projects.

“We try to stay as close to what we feel the replacement value will be… we would look at the condition of the equipment and make decisions based on that.”

The police service — via the police board — could return to council to ask for more money for equipment reserve purchases, if necessary, Johns continued.

“We would (however) make every effort to work with the money we have in the budget right now,” he added.

MOOSE JAW BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS NOTES

THE NEXT POLICE BOARD MEETING IS TUESDAY, APRIL 8TH

Doubling of provincial child porn files concerns Moose Jaw police commissioner

The revelation that the Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit’s file numbers have doubled since 2021 has prompted concern from one member of the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners.

Sask. ICE announced recently that it handled 853 files during the 2021-22 fiscal year, 931 files during the 202223 fiscal year and 1,003 files during the 2023-24 fiscal year. It noted that investigators are on pace to handle 1,317 files during the 2024-25 fiscal year, which ends April 30.

“Surpassing last year’s number of files isn’t just a statistic, it’s a testament to the growing challenges we as ICE investigators face,” Saskatoon Police Staff Sgt. Tim Failler, co-ordinator of the Saskatchewan ICE Unit, told media.

ICE executed 58 search warrants across the province last fiscal year, and as of March 13, 2025, had carried out

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86. Meanwhile, the organization has begun tracking the number of files where other agencies ask them for assistance because they were receiving so many.

In 10 months, they had over 150 requests for assistance, the unit said.

Commissioner Jamey Logan with Moose Jaw’s police board raised the topic of Sask. ICE’s “staggering numbers” during the board’s March meeting. He asked whether Moose Jaw had similar numbers of child exploitation material files and whether the community was doing better or worse than other jurisdictions.

Acting Police Chief Rick Johns replied that Saskatchewan ICE conducted a “fairly large-scale investigation” in February as part of a nationwide initiative called “Project Steel,” which targeted child sexual abuse and exploitation offenders.

The project brought together 63 law

enforcement partners and led to 106 arrests nationwide, including five people from Saskatchewan, with one from Moose Jaw.

“Our local contingent (within the Moose Jaw Police Service) continues to be very busy,” Johns said.

Two officers are dedicated to handling child exploitation material files, while the agency looks for ways to prioritize those situations, he continued. Furthermore, the MJPS continues to build its relationship with Sask. ICE since all units in the province rely on each other for support.

“As the year progresses, we’re going to be looking at those numbers very closely just to see how that’s trending and what other steps we can take to address that,” Johns added.

During a presentation to the board in January, a MJPS ICE investigator told commissioners that the unit has 16 ac-

tive files, with more coming in regularly, while investigations into just one case usually take 113 to 160 days to conclude.

Meanwhile, in 2024, the unit handled 29 files, which resulted in the execution of three search warrants at residences, the identification of five victims and charges laid against two people

The hurdles the ICE unit faces include limited time to investigate files, limited access to specialized software, staying current with modern investigative techniques and suspects moving to other jurisdictions, the investigator said. Ongoing training usually involves talking with peers, while advanced training requires the software.

Some solutions to these issues include hiring a full-time ICE unit investigator and Moose Jaw joining the provincial team, she added.

February’s crime stats dropped by double-digit percentages, report shows

Freezing temperatures blanketed Moose Jaw for almost half of February, which may have contributed to a double-digit percentage decrease in crimes throughout the community, data shows.

The Moose Jaw Police Service presented the February crime statistics during the Board of Police Commissioners’ March 19 meeting.

The data showed that, overall, crimes against people declined 28.2 per cent year-over-year, while crimes against property decreased 48.4 per cent yearover-year.

The data for crimes against the person in February 2025 versus February 2024 showed:

• Homicide: 0 / 0

• Attempted murder: 0 / 1

• Assaults (sexual, common, with a weapon, aggravated, against police): 36 / 62

• Robbery: 0 / 3

• Total: 61 / 85, a decrease of 28.2 per cent

Data for crimes against property in February 2025 versus February 2024 showed:

• Break-ins (business, residence, other): 23 / 57

• Motor vehicle thefts: 4 / 13

• Thefts over $5,000: 2 / 5

• Thefts under $5,000: 60 / 113

• Arson: 2 / 0

• Mischief/property damage under $5,000: 25 / 35

• Total: 145 / 281, a decrease of 48.4 per cent

Data for other incidents in February 2025 versus February 2024 showed:

• Impaired driving: 8 / 15

• Failing to comply with court orders: 112 / 142

• Threats: 1 / 4

• Domestic disputes: 4 / 12

• Provincial liquor infractions: 14 / 11

• Vehicle collisions over $1,000: 61 / 65

• Summary offence tickets: 204 / 375

• Drugs (cocaine and other): 2 / 6

• Calls for service: 3,166 / 2,855, an increase of 10.9 per cent

While crimes are trending down, the number of calls for service is trending up and keeping police members busy, he continued. Roughly 30 per cent of calls are crime-related, while the rest are about social disorders, such as people struggling to survive, arguments, or residents requiring someone to solve their issues.

“Although we have seen crimes against property and persons go down, we will continue to answer the needs of the community … on a day-to-day basis,” Johns said.

The monthly statistics don’t always reflect the activities of police officers, because members sometimes support people who are ill and require medical attention, the acting chief added. Addressing

crime is a priority for the organization, but such incidents are only a portion of what it does.

The crime statistics report had a line item for automated speed enforcement (ASE) tickets but no data for February 2025, something a commissioner questioned.

In response, Johns said he spoke with an officer in the MJPS’s traffic section and learned the member is working with the province to acquire that data since the latter controls the cameras. Information for ASE tickets in February and March will be presented during the April police board meeting.

As for why most of the crime statistics declined in February, the acting chief said the agency has an analyst looking into those declines to identify trends. If there are trends, the police service could provide targeted enforcement in certain areas.

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.

There’s a growing need for helpful child labour Reflective Moments

The classified section doesn’t have a category for child labour but at times this household could use the services of a worker at least eight years old and no older than 12.

We wouldn’t be offering full-time employment, nor would there be benefits other than perhaps a home-baked cookie or a glass of soda pop. There’s no holiday pay, no pension plan, no sick days and not a single chance for advancement.

However, there would be eternal gratitude from the occupants of this house, and there’s a chance for wordof-mouth opportunities from friends and neighbours who might have dilemmas similar to ours.

The workers would have to be available for all hours of the day, seven days a week to ensure that when we run into a problem we older folks can’t solve there will be someone ready to give us a hand.

So what are the dilemmas that would cause us to be politically incorrect in seeking assistance from age-specific workers: pill bottles, tops on over-thecounter medicines, lids on commercial cleaners, changing the batteries when not enough room is left for large, fat fingers, re-programming the television’s remote control and figuring out why the computer sometimes does wonky things.

Most of the pill bottles in the house have been converted to adult-only but it took perseverance at the pharmacy to make that happen. For awhile, before we knew the procedures and protocols, the pill bottles were admonished every time a piece of medication was required.

I would offer to assist Housemate in removing the lids and found my own abilities inadequate in most of the instances. After that I closed my ears to the loud mutterings and thought about inviting someone’s child to spend some

playtime with us opening pill bottles — with adult supervision of course. Without the child-proof tops I’ve noticed that some of the lids don’t fit completely firmly and if removed with too much wrist action, those tiny drugs go flying all over the floor. A small, limber person would be appropriate to help less supple adults retrieve the spilled contents. Those long-handled grippers are not precise enough for such small items.

Certain over-the-counter medication producers are advised to think about the abilities of the adults for whom the medicine is meant. Someone with arthritic hands and poor hand-eye co-ordination is not adept at lining up the arrow on the lid with the arrow on the bottle. Again a young person’s agile skills and 20-20 vision would come in handy, saving some adult from arthritic pain, and a resulting headache from being unable to

open the bottle of headache medication. It would be edifying to meet the person who designed the lids on bathroom cleaning products. The lids require the cleaner to align the arrows while simultaneously pressing in on the opposite side and lifting and turning to allow a free-flow of cleanser. The free-flow seldom happens without much grumbling and questioning of the manufacturer’s emotional health.

Again, one or two children would be the ideal solution and while they’re on the scene they might be able to crawl into the corners under the vanity to capture those elusive dust bunnies and items dropped and never retrieved. Is anyone interested?

Only those selected for interviews will be contacted!!!!

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Young artists can showcase their talent in Sask. Wildlife Federation’s fish art contest

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) is calling on young artists to showcase their talent in the returning 2025 Fish Artwork Contest.

The contest will run from Tuesday, April 1, to Wednesday, April 30. Winners will receive SWF fishing packages, and entries earning first, second, and third place will be recognized by the federation.

Open to students from the province in Grade 4 to Grade 6, the contest invites participants to create original artwork depicting native Saskatchewan fish in their natural habitats. Eligible species include walleye, yellow perch, lake trout, northern pike, lake sturgeon, and Arctic grayling.

Submissions can be in colour or black and white using mediums like paint, drawing, or pastels. All submissions must be completed on standard 8.5 by 11 inch (21.59 by 27.94 centimetre) paper and tracing is not permitted.

After considering an impressive 475 entries from across the province last

year, Keilani Hill from Moose Jaw won first place, with Brynlee Weber from

Edam in second and Hannah Stahl from Springwater in third place.

Keilani’s first-place entry was created in pencil crayon and featured a lake trout. “She just did a really good job,” announced Doug Gibson, the SWF’s director of education. “It was just a really good illustration.”

Entries should be mailed to Courtney Devins, director of public outreach and education, at the SWF Central Office in Moose Jaw. The office is located at 9 Lancaster Road, Moose Jaw, with the area code S6J 1M8.

All submissions must include the student’s name, grade, teacher, and school to qualify.

For more information, visit the Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation’s website, SWF.SK.ca or follow ‘Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation’ on Facebook.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation’s Director of Education, Doug Gibson (left) stands with the first-place winner of the 2024 Fish Artwork Contest, Keilani Hill (right). Photo by: Sask. Wildlife Federation

Oh Clark’s

Wildlife Federation’s ‘Classrooms on Ice’ teaches conservation through experience

The Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation (MJWF) wrapped up its annual “Classrooms on Ice” program last week, providing local students with hands-on lessons in ice fishing, aquatic ecology, and environmental conservation.

Designed for elementary school students, the program ran for two weeks on Buffalo Pound Lake.

“We stage (the classroom event) out of Loney’s Point (at Buffalo Pound), and it’s targeted at Grades 5 and 6,” said Todd Smith, president of the MJWF.

With each intake, the first lesson focused on fish physiology and introduced students to the various species found in Buffalo Pound Lake. Smith explained that students learned about fish behaviour, food chains, and evolutionary adaptations.

Next, students participated in water quality testing and benthic sampling — a hands-on exploration of lake ecology. Armed with water testing kits and sediment samplers, students examined the chemical composition of the lake and identified macroinvertebrates living in the mud.

“They take a mud sample from the bottom of the lake, and they talk about the macroinvertebrates that roam in the mud and how they fit into the food chain, what their goals are, and how different species survive in the winter,” Smith explained.

Each day concluded with the most anticipated element of the program: ice fishing.

Under the supervision of experienced mentors, students learned how to set up their fishing gear, drill holes in the ice, and practice the principles of catch-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

and-release fishing.

“They are on the lake, and they’re taught about the different gear for ice fishing,” Smith said. “We talk about catch-and-release, the importance of catch-andrelease fishing practices, and how we manage our fishery resources. (Students) then go out fishing and try to catch some fish for the day.”

While the event is primarily intended for schools,

its popularity means spaces fill quickly each year.

This year’s program saw 10 classes participate over two weeks, along with a special one-day weekend session for 33 scouts and their parents with the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Scouting group, bringing the total to 11 days of programming.

The “Classrooms on Ice” initiative has earned national and international recognition for its innovative approach to environmental education. Originating in Moose Jaw, the program has inspired other Wildlife Federation branches across Saskatchewan to launch similar initiatives.

While “Classrooms on Ice” has concluded for the year, the MJWF has plenty more educational projects in store. Planning is already underway for its upcoming “Pheasants in the Schools” program, which teaches students about pheasant lifecycles through hands-on incubation projects. The federation will also host its annual fundraising dinner in May, with proceeds going to support educational programs like these.

Reflecting on the success of this year’s ice fishing experience, Smith hopes more teachers and community members will get involved in the future.

“If people would like to get involved, whether it be a teacher looking to book a class or (someone willing) to volunteer, they can contact us through our website or through our Facebook page,” he said.

For more information about the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation and its conservation efforts, visit “Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation” on Facebook or its website at MJWildlife.ca.

Students participate in the 2025 “Classrooms on Ice” program, hosted at Buffalo Pound Lake by the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation this March. Photo by: Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation

OPINION EDITORIAL:

Great Sask. mag and angry ER visitors

One piece of mail our household eagerly awaits is Prairies North Magazine.

Published four times a year, once each season, this Saskatoon-based magazine has given us hours of enjoyment discovering aspects of life in Saskatchewan over the years.

Tourism Saskatchewan describes this magazine as our own geographic magazine, our version of National Geographic.

Articles focus on little known features of the province, nature, communities, cultures, and history.

The spring issue’s main feature tells about the successful kite festival in Swift Current.

An inspiring piece involved five young women from southeastern Saskatchewan who overcame obstacles and now perform trick riding on horseback 26 weekends a year.

A nature article outlines the endan-

TRADING THOUGHTS

By Ron WalterFor Moose Jaw Express

gered short-horned lizard while another tells about a potter near Wynyard.

Articles in Prairies North have been the source of numerous road trips and staycations for us, discovering the cool things in this province.

Last year an article on the Paradise museum telling the story of the north and the Riel Rebellion gave us reason to plan a trip.

An article about the old time threshing bee at Borden intrigued us.

The photography is awesome with a nature photo on the back inside page.

Mortlach wildlife art photographer David Krughoff used to contribute photos and articles.

The somewhat rural-centred magazine was started on a kitchen table in the small northern town of Norquay.

Lionel Hughes built the magazine Saskatchewan Naturally, changed the name to Prairies North in 2007 and in

2018 Amanda and Rob Soloudre took over the publication.

Last time I checked the circulation was 10,000 with about 8,000 in Saskatchewan

If you want to learn about hidden Saskatchewan this magazine is the place.

A friend of mine had occasion to spend most of a Saturday in the lobby of the Fred Wigmore Hospital while his wife waited for treatment in the overcrowded emergency area.

He has some interesting stories to tell.

A woman of senior age came in and went through the doors to the emergency room.

Minutes later she came back fuming and verbally accosted half a dozen hospital employees seated in the cafeteria.

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

“What kind of hospital are you running that you have to wait a day to be seen?

“You’re going to hear about this. I’m going to write letters.”

Soon after another woman walked in, went through the emergency door, returning angry at the long wait.

Of course these women had every right to be angry, even if one wonders at their need since they left.

These kinds of wait times shouldn’t be occurring.

Yelling and threatening the hospital staff is not the fair or correct way to protest. The staff doesn’t fund the health care system. Nor does it hire employees.

The provincial government funds health care and the Saskatchewan Health Authority runs the system.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Second annual ‘Swing into Spring’ welcomes community to downtown Moose Jaw

Downtown Moose Jaw will soon come alive with the sights and sounds of spring during the second annual “Swing into Spring” shopping event, where participating local businesses, organized by Laurie Hysuick with support from Tourism Moose Jaw, will showcase local entrepreneurs and welcome the arrival of warmer weather.

Set to coincide with the 2025 BKT World Men’s Curling Championship in Moose Jaw, the event will run from March 28 to April 5, offering visitors and residents a chance to explore and support the community.

According to Laurie Hysuick, owner of Mitny Refillery, Swing into Spring will also include a draw for the chance to win an assortment of locally donated prizes.

“The event kicks off on March 28 with the beginning of curling week, and the final day to enter the draw will be Saturday, April 5,” Hysuick explained.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

“The draw will take place later that evening, with winners able to pick up their prizes Sunday morning before they leave town.”

Swing into Spring is a community shopping event in downtown Moose Jaw designed to celebrate the return of warmer weather and support local businesses. Similar to Christmas in October, shoppers can visit participating stores to explore their offerings and enter to win a grand prize basket, featuring contributions from each business.

With regular or optionally extended business hours — notably an extended shopping experience on Thursday, April 3 — the event encourages residents to reconnect with their favourite local shops and enjoy a day of renewed community spirit.

Prizes have been generously donated by participants and may include a range of products and gift certificates. A full list of participating businesses will

Laurie Hysuick (pictured) is the owner of Mitny Refillery, located at 5 Manitoba Street East, and the entrepreneur behind the “Swing into Spring” initiative. Photo by: Aaron Walker

be available for shoppers to reference, ensuring they know which locations qualify them for a chance to win.

One of the highlights of this year’s Swing into Spring will be a photo booth in the train station lobby at 5 Manitoba Street East, courtesy of Tourism Moose

Jaw. The booth will feature curlingthemed props such as “I only sweep when I’m curling” and “I throw rocks at houses,” adding a playful element to the occasion.

Compared to last year, the event has expanded to include all businesses in the downtown area, not just those within the core shopping district. Hysuick noted that any business interested in participating is still welcome to get involved, provided they reach out before the first day of Swing into Spring.

If you own a downtown business and would like to participate in this year’s Swing into Spring event, contact Laurie Hysuick at 306-694-6330 or visit Mitny Refillery at 5 Manitoba Street East.

For a complete list of participating businesses, pick up a pamphlet at Mitny Refillery or visit “Mitny Refillery” on Facebook.

Thunder Creek Model Train Show returns to the Western Development Museum

Railroad enthusiasts young and old gathered last weekend at the Western Development Museum (WDM) in Moose Jaw for the annual Thunder Creek Model Train Show, an event that brings hobbyists together from across the province each year.

With 32 exhibitors showcasing intricate model railway displays, the show was a celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and a shared passion for trains on March 22 and 23.

“The model train show has a whole bunch of displays throughout the museum,” said Alexis Jones, the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator. “We also have trains for sale, a concession on-site, a door prize draw, and a voters’ choice award, where visitors can vote for their favourite display.”

a lighthearted raffle, and prizes. For Johnson, the real reward was the sense of community from the show and the shared meal that followed.

deer, or even skinny dippers in the river. It’s those small details that keep people looking.”

Parker noted that the layout is always a work in progress. Constant adjustments and repairs are part of the process, especially after transporting the display to various shows. Still, the process is assisted by cleverly designed sections that come together to form the completed display.

“It takes about three hours to set up, and after a day of exhibiting, we’re usually on the road by 6:30 p.m.,” he said. “But we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

To learn more about the Moose Jaw Thunder Creek Model Railroad Club, visit TCMRC.org.

For more information about the WDM, visit WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Alexis Jones can be reached at 306-693-5989 or at AJones@wdm.ca.

The Western Development Museum is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.

A tradition of camaraderie

Barry Johnson, president of the Thunder Creek Model Railroad Club, has seen the event grow over the years.

“It’s a collection of model railroaders. We get together, do a show once a year, and invite the public to see all the various displays we have,” Johnson said about the two-day event.

“Exhibitors come from Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Prince Albert and Regina — it’s a chance to meet, compare railroading projects, and share our passion.”

The exhibitors’ banquet on Sunday featured a penny parade,

“We appreciate everybody coming. Some travel a long way to be here, and we’re always happy to see the public take an interest,” he said. “This hobby is unfortunately fading, so it’s exciting to see a strong turnout this year.”

A lifelong passion

Among the exhibitors was Doug Hunter, a Regina-based model train enthusiast who has been attending the show for years. For him, the event is as much about friendships as it is about trains.

“I have a large collection at home, and I’m downsizing now,” he said on Saturday afternoon. “But (a large part of why) I come here is to meet old friends and make new ones — people from Edmonton, Winnipeg, and all over; it’s always good to see them again.”

Hunter’s lifelong love for trains began when he was just four years old, sparked by a Christmas gift from his mother. His dream of becoming a locomotive engineer came true, and he eventually landed a rewarding career with Canadian National Railway (CN).

“I was so proud of my job as an engineer, I even made my own CN business card,” he said with a smile.

Building Saskatchewan in miniature

For Vince Parker and his fellow members of the River Crossing North Prince Albert Model Railroad Club, creating model train displays is a labour of love.

“We travel across the province to showcase our layout,” Parker said. “It’s a hobby, not work; we put in hours because we enjoy it.”

The club’s layout reflects Saskatchewan’s prairie landscape, complete with grain elevators, farms, oil and gas facilities, and even a scenic backdrop resembling the provincial skyline.

“You’ll see scenes that are familiar — something you might spot driving down the highway or alongside a rail line,” Parker said. “There’s always a little something extra to spot (in our display), like bears,

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Photos by: Aaron Walker

Gord Smith, a member of the Bow Valley Railroad Club, stands with their model train display at the WDM on March 22. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Doug Hunter showcases some of his trains offered for sale on March 22 and 23. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Vince Parker with the River Crossing North Prince Albert Model Railroad Club keeps a watchful eye on his display at the WDM. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Community activist Tannis Brideau’s 10-month-long dealings with the court system have come to an end after she accepted responsibility for several of her charges and received two years of probation.

Brideau, 49, appeared in Moose Jaw Provincial Court on March 18, where she pleaded guilty to causing a disturbance at the Civic Centre Plaza, uttering threats to staff at Golden West Radio and causing a disturbance at the Prairie South School Division board office.

She also pleaded guilty to uttering a threat to cause bodily harm to the courthouse office manager and failing to comply with an undertaking by contacting courthouse staff.

The offences at the Civic Centre Plaza, Golden West Radio and PSSD board office occurred between October and November 2023, while the threat against the office manager occurred in April 2024 and the failure to obey a court undertaking happened between mid-December 2024 and early January 2025.

The Crown waived several other charges.

As part of a joint submission, Brideau received a conditional discharge with conditions, along with probation.

The conditions include not being within 100 metres of the Civic Centre Plaza, Golden West Radio building, PSSD board office or provincial court building unless travelling past in a vehicle, having no contact with staff at those locations, and having no contact with or being within 100 metres of 11 people who testified at her trial.

A conditional sentence is where a person is not convicted of a crime but must follow certain conditions for up to three years. Such offenders won’t have a criminal record if they complete their sentence and probation.

These guilty pleas mean the continuation of Brideau’s trial — it began in June 2024 and continued in September 2024 — at the end of March will no longer happen.

Crown prosecutor Tony Gerein told Judge Brian Hendrickson that this issue was never about the messages that Brideau expressed but how she commu-

nicated them. Therefore, a conditional discharge sends the message that this behaviour cannot continue and acts as a deterrent.

Brideau made it clear during her trial that she was opposed to all COVID-19 pandemic measures and wanted to inform the public about the National Citizens Inquiry event in Regina, which heard from people how the pandemic measures negatively affected them.

Gerein added that this sentence aims to give “safety and peace” to everyone whom Brideau hurt and hopefully allows everyone to move on.

Merv Shaw, who became Brideau’s defence lawyer in early March, said he spoke with Gerein and learned the Crown prosecutor wanted Brideau to acknowledge the harm she did to people and that they needed a “safe space” to recover. Moreover, the Crown also wanted everyone to be “good neighbours” to each other.

“There is no question that she held her beliefs — and holds her beliefs — fervently and honestly,” Shaw said.

However, those beliefs came at

great personal cost to Brideau, as she forfeited her towed vehicle, was no longer able to musically entertain seniors and lost her home in Moose Jaw and moved elsewhere, he continued.

Shaw added that Brideau said she felt that Judge Hendrickson had treated her “very, very fairly” during her trial and in court.

“If I made anyone feel intimidated, that was not my intent … ,” Brideau said emotionally, adding that someone else could now be responsible “to pursue the truth.”

Judge Hendrickson accepted the joint submission and agreed to waive the victim fund surcharge. He noted that probation isn’t about punishment but about keeping people apart, while this sentence “ensures tranquility” in people’s lives.

The judge also thanked Brideau for her compliment since he didn’t hear that very often, especially since judges were “not in the people-pleasing business.”

“This is a result I find most satisfactory,” Judge Hendrickson added. “This is a very good resolution.”

Judge sides with City of Moose Jaw in property title dispute

A resident’s tax-title dispute with the City of Moose Jaw has concluded after a King’s Bench judge ruled that the municipality can take possession of the man’s property and buildings.

Justice Michael Megaw recently released his decision about the matter, with the report summarizing the conflict between the city and Vernon Lester Anderson — owner and shareholder of D-S Automotive Ltd. — and awarding the municipality with the property.

The property is 134 Manitoba Street West and contains the historic Morrison Blackwood Hardware Building — built in 1927 — and an adjacent multi-tenant retail building. Anderson acquired the retail building in 1976 and the hardware building in 1998.

Background

In 2016, Anderson learned that the assessed value of his land was increasing — from $542,300 to $1,724,100, a rise of roughly 317 per cent — and “vigorously disagreed” by complaining to the city and the Saskatchewan Management Assessment Agency (SAMA), the decision said.

The property owner demanded that the parties reduce his assessment value, but he was unsuccessful in his efforts, and since he disagreed with the high level of municipal taxation, he refused to pay taxes until the valuation became “appropriate,” the document continued.

“(Anderson) has stated throughout this matter that he is not trying to avoid paying taxes, rather, he wants to ensure the level of taxation is appropriate,” Justice Megaw noted.

City hall began tax enforcement proceedings by registering a tax lien against the property on Aug. 29, 2018, providing a tax arrears notice on April

18, 2019, and asking the provincial mediation board on Nov. 8, 2019, to take the property title, the report said.

The city informed Anderson on May 19, 2021, that it would take the property title if he didn’t pay his arrears within 30 days, and on Dec. 3, 2021, took that step.

“(The municipality) has remained as the registered owner of the property since that time. The municipal taxes were not paid prior to the city obtaining title to the property,” the report said.

However, before it took the property title, the city sent Anderson a standard tax notice form in October 2021 since he was still the registered owner, the document continued. On Jan. 11, 2022, Anderson visited city hall and gave the front office cashier a cheque for $155,737.76, which was the outstanding tax amount and which the cashier accepted.

However, the city recognized that the cashier erred in accepting the money and sent Anderson a letter on March 10, 2022, saying it had taken the property and he could no longer pay taxes on it, the report said. The municipality also sent back the cheque.

Anderson declined to accept the money and returned it to the city, so in July 2022, city hall said it planned to obtain vacant possession of the property, and in September, it served him with a “demand for possession and notice to tenant of intention to apply for a writ of possession” under The Landlord and Tenant Act, the document continued.

However, Anderson refused to vacate the property because of the ongoing dispute, so on Nov. 11, 2022, he commenced legal proceedings against the city by seeking to retain possession of the property based on his payment for

outstanding taxes.

“In this regard, it appears he relies on the equitable doctrines of promissory estoppel and laches as against the city,” Justice Megaw write.

“Estoppel” means a party cannot deny a fact that’s already been settled in court as truth, according to legaldictionary.com, while the “doctrine of laches” asserts that there has been an unreasonable delay in filing the lawsuit, which has prejudiced the defendant or prevented him from putting on a defence.

In response, the city sought an order for possession of the property and asked the court to dismiss Anderson’s entire application since it allegedly failed to disclose a “reasonable cause of action,” the report added.

Judge’s analysis and decision

There was no dispute by either party about what happened, while the factual record was clear and Anderson did not dispute it, although he submitted further material with assertions and arguments that advanced his concerns and criticisms of the process against him, Justice Megaw wrote.

However, the judge did not consider that material, nor did he accept Ander-

son’s claim that the city acted in “bad faith” by rejecting his payment since the former provided no evidence to substantiate his claim.

The judge used case law from the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal to rule that because Anderson failed to pay his outstanding municipal taxes on time, his right to the property was “extinguished” since the city appropriately acquired the land through The Tax Enforcement Act (TEA).

However, Justice Megaw acknowledged that Anderson was arguing that the city was “estopped” from finalizing the tax enforcement proceedings because the front desk cashier accepted the tax arrears payment, while the city identified this claim “as being grounded in promissory estoppel.”

The judge referred to another appeals court case that ruled promissory estoppel can only be used as a defence — “a shield” — and “not (as) a sword.” Instead, promissory estoppel can only guide the administration of a contract.

The judge added that the city employee accepting the cheque “was simply an error,” while under the TEA, Anderson and D-S became tenants of the city after the latter obtained the property title.

Meanwhile, Justice Megaw referred to another appeals court ruling to discuss Anderson’s plea that “the doctrine of laches” applied to this situation. The justice ruled that the “mere passage of time” was insufficient to invoke this doctrine, while the city enforced the tax arrears “in the usual and ordinary course” of time.

The judge added that the city was entitled to a “writ of possession” granting it exclusive possession of 134 Manitoba Street West.

The former Morrison Blackwood Hardware Building at 134 Manitoba Street West. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

DMJA celebrates

The Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) held its annual general meeting at Cask 82 on March 18, with the meeting reflecting on the successes of 2024 and previewing exciting activities in 2025.

“This last year was a really successful year. We did a lot of things that we’re all proud of,” said Alex Carleton, DMJA president.

A year in review

The association worked with the Kinsmen Club last year to enhance the downtown walking art tour, which saw artist Carly Jaye Smith paint 38 items, such as benches, garbage cans and other infrastructure, Carleton said. Smith has five items left to paint, which she will do this year.

“It has added colour and something fun for the kids and it’s a real nice touch for the downtown. We are proud we took this on and we’re thankful to the Kinsmen for helping us fund this,” he added.

Craig Hemingway, the city’s director of strategic growth and a board member, highlighted the DMJA’s second annual Snowtorious Family Day in February. He said the event expanded what the association can do in the area, reminded people that Crescent Park is downtown and gave residents something fun — and free — to do.

The wagon rides were the most popular activity, while there were other events like street hockey and hot dog roasts, he continued. While Snowtorious didn’t happen in 2025, the association wants to invite downtown businesses to support future events.

Meanwhile, the association — with support from city hall — installed the Ukrainian sculpture in June and held an official ceremony in September, which

was “really exciting,” Hemingway said. The sculpture was made possible after the now-closed St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Church donated $10,000 to the association to do something in the community.

The DMJA commissioned artists Bill and Laurette Keen to create the colourful sunflower sculpture, which “turned out wonderfully” and is “a great piece in Crescent Park,” he continued.

“The downtown was really proud to be given that responsibility by the church and they were incredibly pleased and proud with how it turned out,” Hemingway added.

John Iatridis, owner of The Mad Greek restaurant, highlighted the third annual Greek Night, which raised roughly $36,000 for the association and Tourism Moose Jaw. He noted that the event was plenty of fun and many people had a good time.

This year’s Greek Night, which occurs Saturday, May 10, is almost sold out — about 340 tickets have been sold — while there are roughly five tables left, he added.

Board member Leslie Campbell discussed a downtown beautification project that a resident undertook in August, which included removing weeds and cleaning up garbage, actions that the association greatly appreciated.

Meanwhile, the organization successfully held the third annual Little Chicago Show and Shine, which featured over 500 cars, a packed Main Street, great weather, amazing volunteers and supportive sponsors, she added.

Yvette Moore, owner of the Yvette Moore Gallery and the board treasurer, highlighted the Christmas in October program and the positive feedback that people provided. She noted that the program has been a success because of how historic the downtown area is.

The upcoming year

Carleton highlighted two projects the DMJA is pursuing this year: the Helping Hands cleanup initiative and

painting a mural on the Manitoba Expressway concrete wall.

The cleanup project will run for eight weeks starting in May and see groups of people go block to block addressing vandalism, garbage, weeds and other issues; people will be paid $60 for three hours of work. The association plans to acquire volunteers through the John Howard Society, Homebase Moose Jaw and the Chamber of Commerce, although anyone can help.

“I think it’s going to be a win-win in our community,” Carleton said.

With the mural, Smith plans to create a colourful painting to welcome people to Moose Jaw and make that entrance a gateway into the community; the project will start around May.

Carleton added that the DMJA also plans to erect a billboard on Highway 1 to encourage motorists to come downtown.

A Powerpoint slide shows what a mural could look like as part of a proposed project for the Manitoba Expressway concrete wall. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

Alex Carleton, chairman of the Downtown Moose Jaw Association, speaks during the meeting. Photo by Jason G. Antonio

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS

MONDAY, MARCH 24.

The Moose Jaw and District Fire Department responded to over 900 calls for service in 2024, which is roughly the same number as in the past two years, data shows.

City administration presented a report during a recent city council meeting with information about the activities of city hall departments during the fourth quarter of 2024, along with data for the entire year.

Fire department

The fire department handled 906 incidents last year, with the top incidents being false alarms (333), cooking incidents (118), motor vehicle collisions (109), first responder EMS situations (81), service calls (78) and fires (70), with the most notable incident being the explosion at Capone’s Hideaway Motel that killed one person, the data showed. In comparison, the department re-

MJFD saved over $880K worth of materials in 2024, report shows

sponded to 915 total calls in 2023 and 930 total calls in 2022.

By quarter, in 2024, Q2 had 242 incidents, Q3 had 241 incidents, Q4 had 216 incidents and Q1 had 208 incidents. In comparison, there were 232 incidents in Q4 2023 and 267 incidents in Q4 2022, the report said.

Meanwhile, of the 906 incidents, 32 occurred in rural areas; Q2 had the most incidents at 14.

The total value of incidents that the fire department handled last year was $1,265,700, with firefighters saving $881,380 in materials and fires claiming $384,320.

In comparison, in 2023, those numbers were, respectively, $22,924,399, $22,236,399 and $688,000, and in 2022, those numbers were, respectively, $3,814,600, $2,323,502 and $1,491,098.

Meanwhile, the fire department’s

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

public education section held 58 events that reached roughly 4,700 people. Also, for 2024, non-fire incidents that the department handled included:

• Inspections/consultations: 1,311

• In-company inspections: 506

• Licensed home/venue inspections: 37

• Complaints: 7

• File searches: 2

• Fire drills: 10

• Fire investigations: 10

• Building plan reviews: 48

Legislative and enforcement services

In the legislative and enforcement services department in 2024, employees:

• Executed 20 bylaws compared to 28 the year before

• Executed 172 agreements compared to 158 the year before

• Received and completed 28 freedom of information requests compared to

33 the year before

• Digitally archived 61 records compared to 507 the year before

Furthermore, the city clerk’s office initiated a project to modernize the indexing of signed agreements, with the goal being to “diarize expiry dates” in advance and notify the relevant departments before an agreement expires, the report said. Also, this project aimed to ensure that the department “retained critical knowledge” despite some employees leaving.

The report noted that by the end of 2024, the city’s “Notoriously Good Neighbour” program had operated successfully for two years and recognized 26 people or couples who had a positive effect on the community. The city partnered with the Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce to promote this initiative.

Council report provides data about public works’ activities in 2024

City hall collected more than $534,000 in revenue from parking meters in 2024, which was almost $40,000 less than the year before, a new document shows.

City administration presented a report during a recent city council meeting with information about the activities of city hall departments during the fourth quarter of 2024, including the public works and utilities branch.

The report also provided data for the entire year.

Parking meters

The municipality collected $534,756.90 in total revenue from parking meters in 2024, which was comprised of $467,293.94 in coin revenue and $67,462.96 in Hotspot app revenue, the report said.

In comparison, in 2023, the city collected $572,338.30 in total revenue, including $497,296.30 in coins and $75,042 in Hotspot revenue, the data showed. This total amount represents a year-over-year drop of $37,581.40 in overall revenue.

Streets and

roads

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Public works provided data about the repairs it made to streets and roads in Q4 2024 and Q4 2023:

• Asphalt repairs in tonnes: 346.36 / 239.44

• Excavations repaired: 20 / 13

• Potholes repaired: 355 / 202

• Dips repaired: 4 / 3

• Manholes repaired: 3 / 1

• Catch basins repaired: 1 / 1

• Regulatory signs repaired/replaced: 79 / N/A

• Parking meters replaced: 11 / N/A

Meanwhile, total repairs made in 2024 compared to 2023 were:

• Asphalt repairs in tonnes: 1,822.16 / 1,866.89

• Excavations repaired: 103 / 138

• Potholes repaired: 3,558 / 7,503

• Dips repaired: 9 / 9

• Manholes repaired: 10 / 9

• Catch basins repaired: 11 / 7

• Regulatory signs repaired/replaced: 179 / N/A

• Parking meters replaced: 69 / N/A

Painting and grading

In 2024, the city painted 274 crosswalks and 51,183 metres of lane lanes, the report said. Conversely, in 2023, those numbers were 368 and 99,989 metres, respectively.

Meanwhile, with grading, in 2024, the city addressed 55,438 metres of gravel roads and 93,568 metres of back lanes. Conversely, in 2023, those numbers were 42,896 metres and 90,969 metres, respectively.

Water and wastewater repairs

The number of excavations completed in 2024 versus 2023 was:

• Water main breaks: 41 / 27

• Valve repairs/replacements: 7 / 17

• Hydrant repairs: 8 / 7

• Service leaks: 31 / 62

• Curb shut-off repairs: 25 / 29

• Service connection replacements: 129 / 123

• Storm sewer repairs/culverts: 6 / 8

• Sanitary sewer repairs: 7 / 8

Water and wastewater treatment

During 2024, Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Plant pumped 5,228.130 million cubic metres (m3) of water

to Moose Jaw, while the city treated 4,464.067 m3 of wastewater influent, the report said.

In comparison, in 2023, those numbers were, respectively, 5,278.590 m3 and 4,350.403 m3.

Sanitation

With solid waste collection (garbage), the data for 2024 and 2023 showed:

• Commercial: 24,582.948 tonnes / 69,670.141 tonnes

• Private: 5,412.76 tonnes / 6,089.73 tonnes

• Residential: 8,436.735 tonnes / 7,618.785 tonnes

• Total collected: 38,432.443 tonnes / 83,378.656 tonnes

With recycling collection, the data for 2024 and 2023 showed:

• Curbside pickup: 1,162.558 tonnes / 1,075.194 tonnes

• Depot drop-offs: 210.392 tonnes / 253.959 tonnes

• Total collected : 1,372.95 tonnes / 1,329.153

From The Kitchen

By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

Search now under way for Canadian Cook Book

This week, in addition to sharing a recipe, I am seeking assistance in locating some special cookbooks for a reader who lost her copies in a move back to Moose Jaw from British Columbia. “When we moved back the moving company seemed to have trouble returning all our possessions to us and I lost all my cookbooks in the move. I have been slowly trying to replace them but Canadian Cook Books are hard to come by. I am still missing my Canadian Cook Book Nellie Lyle Pattinson published 1943 and 1969,” the reader explained in her e-mail.

“The Canadian Cook Book was the text for home economics for all of Canada from 19211991 so people cherish the book if they have it,” she said.

I went through my stash of my much loved older cookbooks but unfortunately the Canadian Cook Book was not in my collection. I am wondering if I had it but shared it with others when I donated to the hospital book sale a few years ago?

At any rate, I am now in search of the Canadian Cook Books to help a reader in her quest. I would welcome calls from anyone who has the

books and is willing to share in some way with another collector. I can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net or at 306-692-7357.

In my own search I came across the Canadian Cook Book online, selling for a high of $132.05 or a similar edition for $33.35. All are used and considered in good condition.

While browsing online, it soon became evident why home economists relied so much on this book. The table of contents noted the reader would discover eight principles underlying the planning of diets. In addition the book covered daily food requirements, meal planning, how to carve meat, fish and fowl, how to tell the cuts of meat and how to prepare large amounts of food for home catering.

And inside would be details on how to prepare sauces, soups, sandwiches, salads, foods cooked in deep fat and making white and brown bread.

Using a type enlarger and a miniature magnifying glass, I was drawn to a recipe for swiss steak in one of these used books. I offer it this week.

• • •

SWISS STEAK

2 lb. round steak, cut 1-1 1/2 inch thick

1/3 cup flour

1 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. pepper

2 tbsps. dripping

1 sliced onion

2 cups boiling water OR

1 cup boiling water and 1 cup strained tomatoes

Wipe meat and place on board. Dredge with mixed flour and seasonings. Pound flour into meat using a wooden potato masher or the edge of a heavy plate.

Heat frying pan to very hot and put in drippings. Brown meat on both sides. Add onion, boiling water and tomatoes.

Cover tightly and cook below boiling point for two hours. Green peppers and carrots may be added.

• • •

Thank you in advance to anyone who might be able to help me in my latest search.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Moose Jaw Co-op supports students with annual scholarship program

The Moose Jaw Co-op is once again offering its annual scholarship program, providing financial support to local graduating high school students pursuing post-secondary education to empower future leaders and foster academic success.

“The Moose Jaw Co-op is proud to support local students through our annual scholarship program, which provides financial assistance to graduating high school students who are pursuing postsecondary education,” said Michaela Turner, the Co-op’s community and employee engagement manager.

“This program is one way Moose Jaw Co-op invests in the future of our communities by recognizing young people who demonstrate leadership, dedication, and a passion for making a difference.”

The scholarship program is designed to align with the Co-op’s mission of giving back to the community. By in-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

vesting in students, the Co-op reinforces its commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.

“The goal… of the scholarship program is to support and empower the next generation of community leaders by investing in their educational journey,” Turner said. “This initiative directly reflects our mission: ‘We serve and give back to our community by providing top-quality goods and services through total business excellence.’”

According to Turner, the program specifically acknowledges students who exhibit leadership, commitment, and a dedication to their community.

“By helping local students pursue post-secondary education, we’re not only giving back, but also fostering a brighter future for our communities,” she said. “We believe in supporting our own student employees, as well as students throughout all of our communities — in Moose Jaw, Liberty, Avonlea, and

all surrounding areas.”

Each year, the Co-op awards six scholarships of $2,000 each. Three scholarships are presented to local graduating students, while the other three are designated for students who are also Moose Jaw Co-op employees.

The selection process is conducted by the Co-op’s board of directors, who review applications anonymously to ensure fairness and impartiality.

For students preparing to take the

next step in their educational journey, Turner encouraged them to apply for the scholarship. She emphasized that the support goes beyond finances — it reflects the Co-op’s belief in the potential of its local youth.

“This is more than just financial support — it’s an investment in the future of our local communities,” she said. “As a member-owned Co-op, every dollar we earn stays right here at home, and our scholarship program is just one of the many ways we give back.”

The Moose Jaw Co-op urges students to submit their applications before the Monday, March 31 deadline.

“If you or someone you know is graduating this year and heading to university, college, or trade school, be sure to apply online before the deadline,” Turner said.

For more information about the program or to apply, students can visit MooseJawCoop.com.

Why

Canadians Should Shop Local in Moose Jaw

In a world increasingly dominated by online megaretailers and big box chains, shopping local in communities like Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan isn’t just a feel-good choice — it’s a smart one. Supporting local businesses benefits not only the economy but also strengthens the social fabric and character of the city. For Canadians, choosing to shop local is a powerful way to keep communities thriving, resilient, and authentically ours.

Moose Jaw, often affectionately referred to as “the Friendly City,” is more than just a stop on the Trans-Canada Highway. Its charm lies in its locally owned coffee shops, artisan boutiques, independent grocers, and service providers that offer a personal touch you simply can’t get from national chains or online behemoths. When you

Con’t on page A20

Why Canadians Should Shop Local in Moose Jaw, con’t

spend your money in these local establishments, a significantly higher percentage of that revenue stays within the community. Studies have shown that local businesses recirculate up to 68% of their earnings back into the local economy, compared to less than 43% from chains.

Not only does shopping local fuel the Moose Jaw economy, but it also creates jobs for local residents. Whether it’s a family-run bookstore, a homegrown clothing brand, or the farmer’s market downtown, these small businesses employ your neighbors, your friends, and even your family. They also tend to offer better customer service because they rely on community relationships and reputation.

Crucially, local businesses also give back — sponsoring local sports teams, community events, and cultural programs From hockey tournaments and curling bonspiels to local art shows and theatre productions, it’s the small businesses that often step up first to support the spirit of Moose Jaw.

Shopping local also fosters sustainability. Locally sourced products often involve less transportation, which means lower carbon emissions. Plus, many Moose Jaw businesses proudly support regional farmers, artists, and makers, reducing the need for global shipping and unnecessary packaging.

And let’s not forget character — something big chains simply can’t manufacture. Moose Jaw’s local shops and services reflect the city’s personality and pride, offering goods that are unique to the region and often handcrafted or ethically made.

Lastly, shopping local strengthens the social connections within Moose Jaw. You get to know the business owners. You become part of a community that looks out for one another.

So the next time you go shopping in our friendly City, skip the big-box checkout line and step into a local shop. You won’t just be making a purchase — you’ll be investing in your community’s future

#ShopLocalMooseJaw

#ShopLocalMooseJaw

We offer high-quality, cost-effective plans, and superior customer service. Our knowledgeable staff will analyze your current bill and your personal, business or corporate needs to offer you a comprehensive and competitive plan. We also sell a wide range of smartphones, tablets, mobile internet devices and plans to keep you connected no matter where you are. For more details and in store promotions please visit us at Bell Kiosk in Town N Country Mall. 110k-1235 Main st N Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, S6J 1B3 or Call at

Tourism Moose Jaw announces four new trolley tours for summer 2025

Tourism Moose Jaw is set to roll out an exciting lineup of revised trolley tours for the summer, offering locals and visitors alike fresh ways to explore the city’s history, crime stories, and ghostly legends.

Lynette Biech, Tourism Moose Jaw’s trolley manager who also writes the tours, is thrilled about this season’s offerings.

“I like to change (the tours) every couple of years. I write them just to change it up because the trolley is so well supported by the City of Moose Jaw and the surrounding community,” she said. “We like to offer something different for those folks who are coming every year with their guests or with their tourist friends.”

Daytime history and mini trolley tour

Tourism Moose Jaw’s classic day time history tour remains a staple, taking passengers on a journey through Moose Jaw’s iconic landmarks, parks, and his torical buildings. This year’s tour will include a new route and additional his torical information.

“We talk about some interesting things on this tour… (including) some of the famous people who have visited Moose Jaw through the years, or who have come from Moose Jaw,” Biech said.

For those who are short on time or who are travelling with younger chil dren, Tourism Moose Jaw is introduc ing its new “mini tour,” a condensed, 30-minute version of the standard day time history tour.

“It’s 30 minutes, and that’s more for people who have small kids that maybe can’t sit for the full hour…,” Biech ex

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

plained. “It does encompass a lot of the same stuff as the day tour does.”

Crime tour

True crime enthusiasts will have

offers a combined experience on Thursday nights.

“You take the cemetery tour first, then you come back, get on the trolley,

launch in early May. Adult ticket prices range from $18 to $25, depending on the chosen tour. Charters are also available for groups looking to customize their

Moose Jaw Warriors hold Yara Awards Night prior to final game of season

Lakovic named Player of the Year during annual celebration of top players

Elizabeth Black - Moose Jaw Warriors

With a dominant performance on the ice this season,Moose Jaw Warriors captain Lynden Lakovic was named the 2024/2025 Player of the Year at the annual Yara Awards Night. Through 47 games this season, Lakovic earned a career-high 27 goals and 58 points.

Even after missing nearly seven weeks of the season due to injury, Lakovic’s third season with the Warriors was impressive enough to still earn him the Emerald Custom Creations 3-Stars Award, and the Tim Hortons Top Scorer Award.

For his work in the community and in particular with Moose Jaw Minor Hockey, Lakovic also took home the Moose Jaw Co-op Humanitarian of the Year Award.

Veteran defenceman Aiden Ziprick was named the Safeway Top Defenceman after setting a new career-high of 12 goals and 48 points through 68 games. Ziprick eclipsed his previous career high

of nine points only nineteen games into the season.

First-year defenceman, Nolan Paquette, was recognized for his achievements both on the ice and in the classroom with the Ms. Rose-Mary Hartney Scholastic Achievement Award.

Following an impressive rookie

campaign with seven goals and 18 points through 60 games, Riley Thorpe was named the JGL Rookie of the Year.

After rocketing to popularity after his dominant performance in his first WHL start against Everett in October, rookie goaltender Josh Banini was the recipient of the Yara Fans Choice Award.

After setting a career-high with

17 goals and 46 points through 68 games while amassing only ten penalty minutes,Pavel McKenzie was named the C&E Mechanical Most Sportsmanlike Player.

Also setting a new career high, 19-year-old forward Ethan Semeniuk was named the Conexus Credit Union Cody Smuk Unsung Hero. Semeniuk tallied 14 goals and 28 points through 53 games.

Defenceman Connor Schmidt had an impressive sophomore season, finishing with 10 goals and 23 points while play68 games. His effort on the ice got him recognized with the Mark MacKay Hustle and Hardest Working Warrior Award.

18-year-old defenceman, Brady Ness, was named Andy’s Transmission Most Improved player. In addition to setting a new career high, Ness was also named to the leadership group late in the season.

Ethan Semeniuk presents a cheque for $110,000 to the Warriors Education Fund, proceeds from the 2024 Alumni Golf Tournament.

Aiden Ziprick presents a cheque for $18,000 from Yara to Hunger in Moose Jaw for the Wins for Hunger program.

Lynden Lakovic accepts the Warriors’ Player of the Year Award.

Ethan Semeniuk accepts the Conexus Credit Union Cody Smuk Unsung Hero Award.

Josh Banini accepts the Yara Fans’ Choice Award.

Lynden Lakovic accepts the Moose Jaw Co-Op Humanitarian Award.

Connor Schmidt accepts the Mark McKay Hustle and Hardest Working Warrior Award.

Brady Ness accepts the Andy’s Transmission Most Improved Award.

Pavel McKenzie accepts the C&E Mechanical Most Sportsmanlike Award.

Riley Thorpe accepts the JGL Rookie of the Year Award.

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Moose Jaw Warriors close out season with impressive win over Swift Current Broncos

The Moose Jaw Warriors closed out their 2024-25 season in style on Saturday night.

The Warriors built a 4-0 lead in the second period and would go on to a 5-2 victory in Western Hockey League action at the Temple Gardens Centre.

The win did come with a caveat: the Broncos, who defeated Moose Jaw 5-3 a night earlier in Swift Current, had opted to rest the vast majority of their top players as they prepare for their first-round playoff series next weekend.

Moose Jaw improved to 15-45-6-2 and finish in 11th in the Eastern Conferand will finish eighth in the Conference and will take on either Medicine Hat or Calgary in the first round of the playoffs.

The Moose Jaw Warriors salute their fans after their 5-2 win to close out the 2024-25 season.

Warriors defenceman Connor Schmidt scored

Warriors in their season-ending win on Saturday night. Nick Pettigrew

Moose Jaw Warriors hold Yara Awards Night prior

Nolan Paquette accepts the Rose-Mary Hartney Scholastic Achievement Award.

Lynden Lakovic accepts the Emerald Custom Creations Three Star Award.

Aiden Ziprick accepts the Safeway Top Defenceman Award.

Lynden Lakovic accepts the Tim Hortons Top Scorer Award

Central Cyclones continue dominance with fifth-straight high school basketball championship

Central rolls to 70-55 win over Regina Johnson in gold medal game at Hoopla in Saskatoon Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Central Cyclones and their half-decade of high school boys basketball provincial dominance continued Saturday night in Saskatoon.

Central claimed their fifth-straight 4A championship with a 70-55 victory over Regina Johnson in the gold medal game at Hoopla 2025.

Gerritt Gulutzan and Chase Seaborn each scored 17 points to lead the Cyclones in the championship contest, while Lei Delizo added 16 and Eli Juan scored eight.

Jayden Zelionka topped Regina with 20 points.

Central entered the tournament as the top seed after another solid seasonlong showing on the tournament circuit and lived up to their advance billing right off the hop, taking a 105-94 victory over fifth-seed Regina Harvest City.

Keaton Belsher had an outstanding game in that contest, scoring 34 points, while Delizo had 28 of his own. Seaborn scored 17 and Gulutzan added 12.

Obama Lasu topped Harvest City with 26 points.

Regina Johnson advanced to the gold medal game with a 72-61 upset win over second-seed Regina Luther.

Vanier Spirits defeat Central Cyclones for 4A girls provincial basketball bronze medal

Spirits take 61-48 win over Cyclones to finish third in province, claim medal for second straight year

The Vanier Spirits are Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association 4A girls medalists for the second-straight season.

The Spirits took a 61-48 victory over the Central Cyclones in an all Moose Jaw match-up in the third place game on Saturday afternoon in Saskatoon, giving Vanier the bronze medal

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Waverley Demassi led Vanier with 23 points while Tristyn Smith scored 16 and Madeline Cruz added eight.

Addison Simpson topped Central with 13 points with Ellah Flanagan scoring 10 and Leiah Delizo adding nine.

The four-seed Spirits had naturally hoped to return to the gold medal game two years in a row, but dropped an 80-

in that contest, Ireland Guillaume added 12.

Severyn Ferrara-Horne topped Regina with 28 points.

Central went into Hoopla as the three seed but ran into traditional nemesis and two-seed Meadow Lake Carpenter, falling 50-34. Flanagan had 10 points, Lucy McLean added eight as nine players hit the scoresheet.

Jasmine Dubray led Carpenter’s balanced attack with 12 points.

The Central Cyclones went undefeated to claim their fifth straight provincial 4A basketball championship over the weekend.

The Vanier Spirits claimed the 4A girls bronze provincial championship bronze medal at Hoopla 2025 on Saturday afternoon. Vanier Spirits

Briercrest Clippers see

men’s hockey season come to an end with lost to Red Deer in Game 4

Kings take 3-1 victory in Red Deer to win third-straight Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference championship Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Briercrest College Clippers have seen their Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference men’s hockey season come to an end.

The Red Deer Kings took a 3-1 victory in Game 4 of the best-of-five championship series on Friday night, winning the series three-games-to-one.

As a result, Red Deer wins their third-straight league championship after taking a 3-2 double overtime win on Mar. 14 in Caronport, falling 5-0 to the Clippers in Game 2 on Mar. 15 and taking a 2-1 win in Game 3 on Mar. 16.

Things looked promising for Briercrest through two periods, as Lucas Lapalm had scored on the power play with nine seconds remaining in the sec-

Regina Pat Canadians score late in third to draw first blood in SMAAAHL final series

Schultz scores winner with 6:39 remaining as Pat Canadians defeat Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors 2-1 in Game 1 Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Regina Pat Canadians used a pair of power play goals to take a victory over the Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors in Game 1 of the Sask Male AAA Hockey League championship final series on Sunday afternoon.

Maddox Schultz scored the eventual game winner with 6:39 remaining in the third, and Regina would go on to a 2-1 victory at the Co-Operators Arena in Regina.

Game 2 of the championship final is set for Tuesday at Southland Co-Op Centre in Assiniboia, with Game 3 back in Regina on Thursday.

Brennan Brown scored for Moose Jaw in Game 1 of the SMAAAHL Final, but it wouldn’t be enough as Regina took a 2-1 victory.

ond frame, giving the Clippers a 1-0 lead through two.

Red Deer tied the game on a goal by Ryland McNinch 1:34 into the third and Deegan Mofford would give the Kings the lead for good with 5:25 to play in regulation.

Briercrest pulled goaltender Dominik Tmej for the extra attacker with just over two minutes remaining, but McNinch would score his second of the game with 16 seconds to play to secure the win and the ACAC championship.

Tmej finished with 36 saves for the Clippers, while Kristian Lyon had 39 saves for Red Deer.

The Briercrest College Clippers saw their season come to an end with a loss to the Red Deer Kings in Game 4 of the ACAC men’s hockey championship final.

Denise Kutcher honoured as March Special Olympian of the Month

The Moose Jaw Warriors Hockey Club celebrated March’s Special Olympian of the Month, Denise Kutcher, during an opening ceremony at the Moose Jaw Warriors’ home game against the Brandon Wheat Kings on March 15.

Kutcher, a dedicated athlete with Special Olympics Moose Jaw, was honoured at centre ice before the start of the game. As part of the ceremony, she had the opportunity to participate in the ceremonial puck drop — an experience she described as the highlight of the evening.

\“My favourite part of the ceremony was dropping the puck and watching the players scramble to hit it first,” Kutcher said.

The Moose Jaw Warriors’ Special Olympian of the Month program, presented in partnership with WINMAR Property Restoration Specialists, has been a staple of the team’s community engagement efforts since 2015. Launched by former Warriors’ captain Brett Howden, the initiative highlights the achievements of local Special Olym-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

pians while strengthening the connection between the team and the community.

During the regular hockey season, one Special Olympian is selected and honoured at a Warriors home game each month. In addition to being recognized at centre ice, honorees receive a personalized jersey and are invited to participate in a ceremonial faceoff.

For Kutcher, being named Special Olympian of the Month was an unforgettable experience.

“Being picked as a Special Olympics Athlete of the Month was an awesome experience,” she said.

Kutcher has been involved with Special Olympics Moose Jaw for 13 years, competing in various sports and making lasting memories along her journey. One of her proudest moments came at the provincial Winter Games in Regina.

“My favourite memory with Special Olympics was when I competed in the provincial Winter Games in Regina as part of the Moose Jaw bowling team,”

up her personalized Moose Jaw Warriors jersey after being recognized as a Special Olympian of the Month on March 15.

she recalled. “I won a gold medal.”

Beyond these memorable experiences, the Special Olympics program has provided Kutcher with meaningful opportunities to connect with her community and enjoy the sports she loves.

“Special Olympics has allowed me to be involved in my community and to have fun,” she said.

Kutcher’s passion for sports continues to drive her forward. She encourages other athletes who want to get involved with the program to take the leap and enjoy the experience as she has.

Her concluding message was a call for anyone uncertain about joining the Special Olympics program “To get involved and to have fun.”

Kutcher now joins a growing list of athletes who have been recognized and celebrated through the program, reinforcing the message that hard work, dedication, and a love for sport can lead to great achievements.

To learn more about Special Olympics Moose Jaw, call 306-780-9247 or visit SpecialOlympics.ca.

African Children’s Choir celebrating 40 years with show in Assiniboia

The African Children’s Choir is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a performance in Assiniboia that will captivate people with heartwarming performances of popular kids’ tunes, traditional spiritual songs and vibrant cultural pieces.

The choir performs on Sunday, April 20 at 7 p.m. at Assiniboia Alliance Church on 305 Fourth Avenue East. The show is one of only two stops in Saskatchewan during the choir’s threemonth Canadian tour, as it marks four decades of transforming lives through music, education and hope.

Tickets are free, but donations are accepted.

The choir — part of a larger international Christian organization called Music for Life — is comprised of 18 children ages nine to 11 who come from vulnerable backgrounds and extreme poverty in Uganda and serves as a “powerful testament to the resilience and potential of Africa’s future leaders,” according to the organization.

Each child has faced significant hardship, often with limited access to

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

education, but through the choir, they gain life-changing opportunities for education and personal growth with the potential to become “beacons of hope” in their communities.

The group’s 40 years of existence is “a testimony … that God cares about the orphans, and I think He makes that very clear in His word (the Bible),” Tina Sipp, the choir manager, told MooseJawToday.com. “And we get to join Him in that (because) we get to help the impoverished (and) the vulnerable in that.”

The choir’s longevity is also due to

the generosity that people have shown and the resources they have provided, she continued. This support has ensured that the choir can send donations to schools in Uganda instead of using that money to pay for lodgings.

This support has also led to a “profound change” in the trajectory of children’s lives and their families, the choir manager added.

On average, the group performs at four churches a week, or 16 shows a month, or 192 performances a year, which, over 40 years, is roughly 7,680 shows, Sipp said. That translates into hundreds of churches hosting the shows, thousands of families welcoming African children into their homes and thousands of people sponsoring the education of 59,000 Ugandan children.

“Goodness, that’s a lot of people (who) have stepped up and said, ‘We want to help. We want to give of our resources to better the lives of someone (we) don’t even know and probably will never, ever see in (our) life,’” she said.

The choir is performing at Assini-

boia Alliance Church because it has sung there before, while organizers usually reach out to churches when planning tours to see if they are interested in welcoming the group again, Sipp said. The Easter weekend was available, so the Assiniboia pastor was excited to welcome the choir for that celebration.

The African Children’s Choir kicked off its tour on March 7 in Surrey, B.C., at the church of the group’s founder, Ray Barnett. He was on a humanitarian mission in war-torn Uganda in the 1980s when he transported a boy from his decimated home to the safety of another village. The boy sang praise songs in the car, which inspired the choir program.

The first African Children’s Choir performed in North America in 1984, while money from that tour funded the first children’s home in Uganda in 1985.

Sipp noted that Barnett’s church agreed to help him launch the choir, so she thought it was “a neat full circle” to perform there 40 years later.

“It’s a beautiful story,” she added.

Denise Kutcher, pictured, holds

Photo by: Submitted photo

The African Children’s Choir. Photo by Isaac Aijuuka

This tariff war started by U.S. president Donald Trump is crazy and so dangerous it could lead to another Great Depression like that of 1929-1939.

Unemployment then reached 25 per cent in North America; trade between countries was at a near standstill. Family businesses went under or sold for 10 cents on the dollar.

Life was terrible except for the wealthy.

The planet is on target for a repeat, thanks to the Trump attitude.

Observers have noted that a burst of patriotism in Canada has turned the Trump tariff tirade into rare Canadian unity.

Talk is cheap, especially when politicians mouth the words. Cracks in the unified opposition to the U.S. by premiers has appeared.

Alberta and Saskatchewan premiers both strongly oppose tariffs on

Canada’s hopes for an end to tariff war BIZWORLD

By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

export of oil and natural gas to the U.S.A.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe definitely doesn’t want export tariffs on potash. Remember the old story about which mouse will bell the cat?

What happened to the pledge of unity?

Farm leaders are upset because Ottawa won’t jump to the defence of canola growers, just slapped with a 100 per cent tariff by China.

With less than three per cent of the population and no MPs on the federal government side, Saskatchewan can’t expect to be first in line.

While most Canadians agree with new dollar-for-dollar tariffs on U.S. imports the facts indicate they will have little impact on the U.S. economy.

The U.S. imports only amount to 15.8 per cent of GDP while exports make up 10.9 per cent of GDP.

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

Americans buy more than they produce, simply because cost of producing is so much higher from wages and living standards.

With tariffs Trump will cost America 600,000 jobs, according to the American Tax Foundation, and personal income after taxes will fall by 17.2 per cent.

Trump’s gains, if these tariffs stick, will amount to $222 billion in revenues to grant that big tax cut.

Canada’s biggest hopes for an end to tariffs lie in three areas — the companies listed on the S and P 500 stock index, U.S. auto industry and the court system.

Revenues by S and P 500 companies in 2022 were $17.1 trillion – amounting to over half the nation’s GDP.

And 28 per cent of revenue comes from exports. Canada has to hope pres-

sure from the S and P companies once tariffs bite will inspire change.

The auto industry is Canada’s second hope, once the U.S. experiences damage from higher car prices, lost jobs and lost revenues.

The court system is another impediment to Trump. We don’t know how the Republican majority in the Supreme Court will handle these matters when asked to determine them.

The Trump forcefulness could be tempered in 2027 after mid-term Congressional elections, if the Democrats regain control of the house.

Today the Republican-controlled Congress turns a blind eye when Trump breaks laws passed by Congress to benefit Americans.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net

Committee searching for new painter to take on maintenance of murals

The next public art committee meeting is Wednesday, April 9.

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw’s public art committee has relied on Grant McLaughlin to maintain the community’s murals for 35 years, but it has begun searching for a successor to the veteran artist.

McLaughlin has more than 30 years of experience as a professional artist and has painted more than 11 murals during the last three decades, such as A Tribute to Gary Hyland, the Centennial Mural, Winter Carnival, Living with the Land, and First Watch

He has also been associated with the committee — originally called the murals advisory committee — and its activities since it started in 1990.

The public art committee (PAC) agreed in November 2024 that a succession plan for mural maintenance was required, which meant finding a local artist who could take over once McLaughlin retired.

The committee discussed a few potential artists during its January meeting, with member Janice Bowley agreeing to

contact someone to determine that person’s interest.

Bowley reported back during the March meeting and said the man she talked to had moved to British Columbia, while she knew of no one else to contact.

In response, member Jennifer McRorie said she knew of someone who possessed “a really strong skill set” who “works realistically” and can paint in any style. She offered to approach him, and she agreed that the committee could also advertise for someone.

McRorie added that she knew another male artist from the art guild who was “really skilled” and was familiar with a well-known female artist and offered to approach both.

The committee secretary suggested that asking people could be a starting point, while city administration said the committee would have to receive council’s approval if it wanted to issue an expression of interest through “the regular channels.”

Yvette Moore, the committee chairwoman and a well-known artist, said not every artist is capable or able to paint on huge areas or outside walls, which is where these murals are.

“It’s a certain skill set on its own. And I think Grant in the last little while was doing them on panels and them putting them up,” she continued. “But maintenance is right out there. So those are the challenges that would be faced to maintain them.”

McRorie replied that the one male artist she knows has worked with largescale pieces, which are mainly sculptures. However, he paints as well and has created some larger pieces.

“I don’t know if he’s ever done murals, but he’s very skilled,” she added. “But I think because he has that construction background, he would maybe be able to deal with someone that is larger scale.”

The committee then decided to contact a few community artists to gauge their interest in becoming the new mural

maintenance technician, but if that fails, they will ask council to issue an expression of interest.

Other art projects

Committee members discussed other art projects that have been on their radar, such as:

• The Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery (MJMJAG) is looking for a First Nations artist-in-residence, who could hopefully oversee a mural project

• The Chinese mural issue has been tabled until a suitable location can be found

• The Old Union Hospital mural (The Tradition Continues) has been accessioned into the MJMAG’s collection and rolled up until a large space can be found for it

• The MJMAG could showcase several sculptures in its collection by installing them in garden beds in Crescent Park and creating a “sculpture park” for tourists

Art advisory group recommends updating name of bison sculpture

A life-size steel bison sculpture that the City of Moose Jaw purchased to honour an animal that once roamed the prairies in the millions will have its name updated.

City council purchased the sculpture from artist Bill Keen in October 2022 based on a recommendation from the public art committee. The city then installed the artwork in July 2023, completed landscaping at the Tourism Moose Jaw (TMJ) office that August and installed a plaque in October.

In the summer of 2024, TMJ held an online contest that asked residents to name the 203-kilogram (450-pound) sculpture.

After acquiring over 80 suggestions, the organization narrowed the entries to four and brought the selections to the public art committee (PAC), with the groups choosing the suggestion of Blaze.

“… the name Blaze was chosen because our bison stands in the blaze of the sun under endless prairie skies,” Tourism Moose Jaw wrote on Facebook

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

at the time. “The same sun that warmed the herds of bison that once roamed this land now shines on him!”

During its September 2024 meeting, the PAC — in collaboration with TMJ — agreed to officially name the bison sculpture Blaze.

However, Mr. Keen expressed his concern to the city that he and his wife had not been consulted on the name. He pointed out that, contrary to what a council report said, he had not even been included in reviewing the entries or choosing a moniker.

The public art committee addressed his concern during its March meeting, with member Donna Fritzke, TMJ’s executive director, saying she met with Keen and he was pleased and “perfectly fine” that the sculpture’s name would be Billie Blaze Bison.

“His children were calling it Billie Bison when he was creating it, so that’s where the Billie (name) came from, (so) he has no problem keeping Blaze in that title,” she said, noting that Keen is now creating a baby bison sculpture to join

the “mother.”

Fritzke added that there is no signage at the TMJ office indicating the sculpture’s name, so this change won’t affect anything.

Coun. Heather Eby, council’s rep on the committee, wondered if the sculpture’s name should be “Billie Blaze the Bison” to remain consistent with the nearby Mac the Moose statue. However, regardless of whether that word was included, she said she was happy that Mr. Keen was happy with the outcome.

Committee member Jennifer McRorie expressed concern that Keen was creating a baby bison sculpture and assuming it would be added to the site. The committee had not signed a purchase agreement with him, while this would affect the committee’s budget.

Derek Blais, director of community services, replied that the artist sent him a lengthy text message that mentioned a bison calf artwork that he was making and that would “be born in April.”

“It will likely require the same (acquisition) process as the first one,” he

said, with Keen having to propose the project to the committee, the group determining if there’s a cost or if it’s a donation, and council officially approving the initiative since it would be going on municipal property.

“There’s a lot of details to work out,” Blais added.

One member said the committee couldn’t make any decisions until they knew what Keen’s plans were, while Fritzke said she would re-connect with the artist to acquire more information.

Eby warned the committee to be careful since Keen may continue to create artwork and assume the city will take those pieces. However, the committee can’t accept or pay for everything he creates since the group’s funds are limited and other artists may want similar opportunities.

The committee then approved a recommendation to rename the bison sculpture, with that recommendation to go to council for final approval.

Heritage group wants Moose Jaw’s ghost murals better preserved

Moose Jaw’s ghost murals are a reminder of historic businesses that once existed in the community, so a heritage group wants city hall to consider preserving some of those artworks.

Stella Richards, a member of the city’s heritage advisory committee, spoke to the public art committee (PAC) recently about how many ghost murals are in jeopardy of becoming completely unreadable or simply need “some tender loving care.”

Although some murals are not on heritage buildings, the committee thought the artworks were worthy of upkeep or restoration since they were “a meaningful part of the history of our downtown,” she continued. Moreover, rejuvenating and enhancing these murals would boost tourism and give visitors the chance to see additional community history.

Richards presented the PAC with some archival pictures she had photographed at the Moose Jaw Museum and Art Gallery featuring businesses’ murals during their heyday, such as the Army &

Sing Like Fish: How Sound Rules Life Under Water

Amorina Kingdon Crown, New York, 324 pages.

I saw Jacques Cousteau’s film The Silent World many moons ago when I was a little ankle-biter; all I remember about it is that everything under the water is silent. This belief has since become generally accepted, although Cousteau himself countered this stereotype in a subsequent movie.

The marine world is never truly

Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com

Navy Department Store, Metropolitan Stores and Robinson-MacBean Ltd. department store.

“Some are still visible, but some are already gone,” she said.

Richards also presented photos of current ghost murals, such as the Metropolitan Stores, the Evening Times, Bellamy Furniture, Morrison-Blackwood Hardware Building and Souvenirs and Post Cards.

She noted that some murals are barely visible — the Morrison-Blackwood Hardware Building sign is “not in good shape” — while others like “Souvenirs” have been slightly updated.

Richards noted that the heritage advisory committee is adding QR codes to certain heritage building plaques to enhance history and tourism and thought PAC could use similar technology to educate residents and visitors about ghost murals.

“I hope this is something you can take on … ,” she said, adding that she understood that PAC — similar to the heritage committee — faced financial

silent, as Kingdon writes:

“… the ocean rumbles with Earth’s seismic mumblings: mud slides in subsea canyons, rock groans as mid-ocean ridges spread, undersea volcanoes roar…Coral reef sound travels dozens of kilometers underwater before it fades. Shrimp snap their claws. Parrotfish teeth crunch through coral as they graze on algae. Fish drum their swim bladders and pop their jaws.”

All the above is without the contribution of man-made sound, which, as we shall see, is a source of growing concern for researchers.

Interest in underwater sound and the perception thereof has a long history. Aristotle, around 350 BCE, wrote that sound is heard less distinctly under the surface, and Kingdon spends quite a few pages discussing the physics of how sound travels under water: four and a half times faster than in air and under the right circumstances it can cross an ocean. The speed of sound in oceans depends on the temperature and has been extensively researched. An ocean layer with special sound-conducting qualities was soon discovered, dubbed

pressures because of a small budget.

Coun. Heather Eby, council’s rep on PAC, said the “Souvenirs” mural on The Hive building was a project the murals committee completed more than a decade ago and, it turned out, was the only one it had commissioned.

Furthermore, the committee looked at enhancing a mural on the 100 block of Main Street North but determined it would be too dangerous to address because the building’s wall was falling in, she continued. The Bellamy Furniture and Evening Times murals would be “great” to redo, while the structural integrity of the former Morrison-Blackwood building allegedly prevents enhancing that mural.

Richards replied saying the committee could ask the building owners if they would support the cost of updating the murals. Moreover, some murals are close to the ground and wouldn’t pose a safety issue for the artist, although higher ones might.

The Coke-a-cola ghost mural on the McKarr’s Building would “be an amaz-

the SOFAR channel (Sound Fixing And Range). Naturally it was soon employed for military use with listening stations all over the world.

Kingdon investigates the physics of underwater sound in some detail, I suspect that some readers may find this less than interesting. This section could certainly have been pruned.

For quite a long time people were unsure whether fish could hear, and when that problem was solved, the generally accepted opinion was that marine invertebrates such as crabs and corals could not perceive sound.

Comparative anatomy and physiology showed that these animals in their adult form do indeed have organs which can respond to sound.

ing one” to restore, so maybe the beverage company could support the cost, said Eby. Also, the committee could ask Walchuk Masonry to support the Codville mural at 337 River Street West since it renovated that historic building.

“I love the ghost murals … ,” she added.

Yvette Moore, a PAC member, said she spoke to a tourist recently about ghost murals, with the man indicating that he liked how the artworks looked now. She later conducted research and found many communities across the United States revived their ghost murals, which boosted tourism.

“I think the direction (the heritage advisory committee) is going is warranted for bringing up part of our history … ,” she added.

Other PAC members supported adding the rejuvenation of ghost murals to their work plan but wanted a catalogue of all the artwork so they could determine a potential cost. They then tabled the topic until their next meeting so they could acquire more information.

Interestingly enough, even some marine animals without known auditory apparatus respond to sound – the larvae of corals and crabs orient themselves with regard to the origin of a sound wave. In 1950 the Cambridge biologist Richard Pumphrey wrote a widely acclaimed paper addressing the sense of hearing, making it clear that hearing and responding to gravity are inextricably intertwined.

That whales communicate by sound is by now well known and Kingdon devotes a number of pages to this interesting and in fact rather engaging habit – one which mat well describe whale songs as a form of culture.

Unfortunately, man-made underwater sound is progressively interfering with their songs – and not only the lives of whales are disrupted in this manner, but many other marine creatures as well, even plankton is killed off in some circumstances.

Sing Like Fish gives a very interesting look at a part of our world which has never really come to the general reader’s attention and is well worth a few hours in an armchair.

By Leon Retief

Leon Retief is a retired physician with clinical and research experience. He likes drinking wine, listening to music and reading.

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

International Day for Elimination of Racism recognized at A.E. Peacock Collegiate

The Moose Jaw Multicultural Council (MJMC) hosted an event at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on Thursday to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, bringing together speakers and students to promote inclusion and challenge racism.

Recognized annually on March 21, the day serves as a reminder to combat racism, discrimination, and intolerance globally.

Rhonda Rosenberg, executive director of the Multicultural Council of Saskatchewan, emphasized the importance of acknowledging how identities intersect with power and privilege.

“We all want to shine as beautiful, multifaceted jewels, and feel welcome to express all of those aspects of our identity and be appreciated for them,” she said.

Rosenberg urged attendees to work towards creating balance in social dynamics. “The work of anti-racism is to try to draw that (dynamic) back to a balance,” she said. “Everybody’s able… to get great things happening in our communities.”

Jide Kassim, assistant project manager with Prairie Skies Integration Network, addressed the audience and broke down different forms of racism, including daily, systemic, and cultural racism.

“Racism is a very serious issue, but understanding it is the very first step in change,” Kassim said. He then provided examples, including workplace discrimination and harmful stereotypes perpetuated through social media.

“So, what do we do? The first thing I like to say is to speak up. If you see something happening, don’t just ignore it — stand up.”

Kassim encouraged attendees to educate themselves and challenge harmful assumptions. “Don’t assume things about people based on race,” he said. “We need to take it upon ourselves to learn about other people and their culture.”

Nik Cochrane, a settlement worker with MJMC, reflected on refugee families adjusting to life in Canada.

Sristi Ghosh & Jitender Singh

Moose Jaw, SK March 17, 2025

1:34 am

Male 5lbs, 2oz

Kendra Marchand & Brayden Goodwin

Moose Jaw, SK March 19, 2025

8:32 am

Female 6lbs, 15oz

“I can’t begin to imagine what it’s like to wake up one day and learn that you must leave your community, your home, your country,” Cochrane said. “Our team helps them settle and get connected to a variety of supports in our city.”

Cochrane highlighted some of the council’s efforts, including World Refugee Day, which celebrates the resilience of refugees through cultural exhibits, performances, and traditional foods.

The city’s Indigenous liaison and communications manager, Hayley HartRushinko, discussed her role in strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities. During her presentation, Hart-Rushinko highlighted the development of a Cultural Action Plan, the creation of an Indigenous logo, and the introduction of an official land acknowledgement by the city in 2023.

Hart-Rushinko pointed out that the Temple Gardens Mineral Spa is owned by the Peepeekisis Cree First Nation,

Lysa Sadia & John Godfrey Cabangon

Moose Jaw, SK March 19, 2025

8:32 am Female 6lbs, 15oz

and they have a sponsorship agreement and naming rights for the former Moose Jaw Events Centre, now the Temple Gardens Centre.

“This is something very exciting for the city, and something I never thought I’d see in my lifetime,” she said.

Next, Laura Butt addressed common myths and misconceptions about refugees and immigrants.

“The first myth is that Canada is making a sacrifice by letting in refugees. Not true,” she said. “Canada’s population is not replacing itself by the number of (immigrants being brought in). If you are willing to grow the economy, we need people.”

Butt also challenged stereotypes linking refugees to criminality. “A criminal doesn’t want to be fingerprinted, photographed, and have all their details recorded and examined,” she said, stating that government-sponsored refugees undergo rigorous screening.

She called on attendees to confront biases and promote inclusivity in their daily lives.

“You don’t have to be very important or uniquely powerful in order to help,” she said. “Each one of us has a daily choice and opportunity to be mindful of our biases, and to step outside our comfort zone.”

The event ended on a hopeful note, calling for a more inclusive Moose Jaw as stated by the MJMC.

“Let’s stand together against prejudice, promote respect for all people, and continue working toward a future where everyone is treated with dignity and fairness, regardless of their race or background.”

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A group photo of the speakers at this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination event at A.E. Peacock Collegiate. From left to right: Laura Butt, Sharayah Bjelde, Hayley Hart-Rushinko, Oluwafemi Oshineye, Claude Irakiza, Jide Kassim, and Nik Cochrane. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Hayley Hart-Rushinko, the City of Moose Jaw’s Indigenous liaison and communications manager, speaks at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on March 21. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Oluwafemi Oshineye was the final speaker and shared his personal narrative on March 21. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Refugee student shares his story of discrimination and resilience at anti-racism presentation

On March 21, a refugee student from the Democratic Republic of Congo courageously shared his personal story of discrimination and resilience at an event at A.E. Peacock Collegiate in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

The presentation was organized by the Moose Jaw Multicultural Council (MJMC) to foster conversations about the impact of racism and to promote inclusivity. Among the speakers was Claude Irakiza, who spoke about the challenges his tribe has faced and the lessons he has learned through his experiences.

Facing discrimination

Irakiza described how colonial-era border changes left his tribe marginalized, resulting in systemic discrimination in his former home.

“We all belonged in one country, but when they (colonial governments) created borders, we (suddenly) found ourselves in another country,” he said. “We’ve been living there for five centuries… but now people are fighting because of tribalism.”

Tribalism, originally meant to foster social values and cultural traditions, has often been used as a tool for division and conflict, he explained.

“Tribalism was there to teach us social values and share common beliefs and customs,” Irakiza said. “But now, tribalism created these invisible walls to divide us.”

Irakiza also shared the painful reality of being labeled with derogatory terms, which are used to justify acts of

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

call for unity, urging others to reject discrimination and embrace compassion.

“I wish we can work on common interests, more than differences, and present a strong community,” he said. “Preach peace, strength, and love; united we stand.”

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on March 21, in remembrance of the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa, where 69 people were

killed while protesting apartheid laws. The day serves as a call to combat racism and discrimination worldwide.

The MJMC continues to advocate for multiculturalism and supports initiatives to create a more inclusive society in Moose Jaw.

The Moose Jaw Multicultural Council shares a building with St. Andrew’s United Church at 60 Athabasca Street East. To learn more, call 306-6934677 or visit MJMCInc.ca.

THIS WEEKS FLYERS

violence. “People are being killed every day” as a result, he said, noting that this dehumanizing language has been ongoing for decades and leaves many without safety or stability.

Finding unity in Canada

Since arriving in Canada, Irakiza said he has experienced a stark contrast in how people from different backgrounds can coexist.

“Whenever we (arrive here in Canada), we learn that our difference was nothing,” he said. “We become friends when we reach here.”

His reflections highlighted the possibility of overcoming prejudice through understanding and shared experiences.

“I don’t understand why we can’t do the same thing in our country,” he said. “Those invisible walls don’t exist here.”

Irakiza concluded his speech with a

*Full Circulation means every home & paper should have this yer. If you are missing call us @306-694-1322. *Selected Areas means only selected areas were chosen by the business or agency (please call the business).

Claude Irakiza, pictured, shares his personal story of discrimination and resilience during the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination event at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on March 21. Photo by: Aaron Walker

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

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

4 5 7 9 6 4 2 9 8 9 6 2 2 8 6 5 8 4 6 8 5 7 8 4 3 1

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

If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.

ADJACENT, AGREE, ALIEN, AUGUR, BACKGROUND, BATCH BATTERIES, BLOOD, CHAIR, CIVILIZATION, DECKS, EQUAL GIVEN, GROUP, HAPPY, HEAD, HONOR, INDUCE, LARGER, LEVEL, LUCKY, MAGIC, NEARBY, NUMBERS, ORBIT, PROXIMITY, QUIET, READY, SERVILE, SPARE, THEIR, THOUGH, TOWARD

ACROSS

1. Twirled

Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle. Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck.

5. Frighten

10. “Go away!”

14. Lacquered metalware

15. Group of witches

16. See the sights 17. Drunkards

19. Ancient alphabetic character

20. Cry of disgust 21. Battery terminal

Not clean 23. Eternally 25. Publish 27. Affirmative 28. Caviar source

Poplar variety

Tour of duty 35. Half of a pair 36. Misfortunes 37. Pandemonium 38. Purple shade 39. Fish eggs 40. What we think with

Enclosed 42. Coastal region 44. Petrol

45. Economic down time

46. Comestible

50. Apple or orange

52. Occurrence

54. Regret

55. Deserve

56. Stimulating (Br. sp.)

58. Managed with difficulty 59. On edge

60. Against 61. Not more 62. Type of viper 63. Annoyance DOWN 1. Personnel 2. Infantile paralysis 3. Gastric woe

Modern

Quick breads

Hue 7. Ardent 8. A formal party

N N N

Twine

Gracious 12. Anagram of “Tuna”

3

18. Safe place

22. Filth

24. Visual organs

26. Flees

28. Sedate

29. One single time

30. Require

31. Broadcasts

32. Blackthorn

33. Delights

34. Honed

37. Pack to capacity

38. Bygone

40. Match

41. Desert plants

43. Window coverings

44. Type of spice

46. Line of poetry

47. Liquid bodily waste

48. Parental sisters 49. In accordance with law

50. Sense 51. Garden tool 53. Sell

Greek letter

Drain

205 WANTED

Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-684-1084.

CLASSIFIED ADS

or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience.

Cleaner with 20 years experience available for spring cleaning and move out cleans. Please call Rebecca at 306-990-0387.

$350, Foot Warmer - $250, Sm. Dresser w/ Mirror - $200. Please call – 306-630-6702

160 MISCELLANEOUS

I pay cash for unwanted firearms, ammunition, and other firearm related items. Also, free pick up of unwanted yard, garden, and acreage equipment, chainsaws, ATV’s, snowmobiles, etc.. Call of text 306-641-4447. Looking for unwanted media records, video games, VHS tapes, CD’s, and stereo equipment. Will pick up, 306-527-7786 or 306-631-8399.

210 SERVICES

Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268

Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-6302268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, finishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofing/siding- no job too big

Carley’s Cleaning Services for residential, commercial, move outs/ins, insured and bonded, affordable rates, reliable services, discounts for seniors, free quotes call 306513-9999

135 TOOLS & EQUIPMENT

6 metal poles 14’ x 3” heavy wall steel only $100. each, it’s a steal of a deal. Call 306694-1322.

165 HOUSEHOLD

ANTIQUE ITEMS FOR SALE: Antique Wall

Phone - $350, Treadmill - $500, Hosier Cabinet - $800, Desk w/ decorative legs - $500, Smoker Stand - $200, Desk/Bookcase -

Gary and Shelley Overs Named February’s Notoriously Good Neighbour

Submitted

Gary & Shelley Overs were named February’s “Notoriously Good Neighbours” earlier this month by The City of Moose Jaw and the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce. They were recognized as “Notoriously Friendly, Notoriously Generous and Notoriously Kind-Hearted Moose Javians making a Notoriously Positive difference in our community.”

The pair were nominated by their neighbor, Nicki Picard because they are always there for a simple wave, a ‘hello,’ or helping and doing things out of the goodness of their hearts.

“Always going above and beyond to help with anything that is needed or just doing it because.”

Picard added that they do all these generous things without expecting anything in return.

“I couldn’t have asked for better people to be my neighbors; to be my friends! They make my daughter’s day and always bring a smile to her face.”

As official “Notoriously Good Neighbors,” the Overs were awarded gift certificates to Tunnels of Moose Jaw, a token of appreciation for their contributions to the community.

Large number of puzzles, 1000 pcs, like new condition with no pieces missing, $8 each. Heat massage seat pad, $25. Two 2’x4’ decorative drop-in leaded glass, $25/each. Text or call 306-631-3777.

185 SPORTS

Two weekend passes with 2 tickets for the BTK Men’s World Curling draws 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 beginning April 4th at 9 am, Gold Medal match on April 6th at 3 pm. They are in Section 116, Row 14, seats 12 & 13. Selling due to decline in health. Paid $500, looking for reasonable offers. Please call 902-840-3202 or email carmankerrannapolis@gmail.com

Moose Javians can nominate their Notoriously Good Neighbour by using the Report An Issue feature on MooseJaw.ca or the free City of Moose Jaw app.

(L-R) City Bylaw Enforcement Officer Raghvir Gill, Rob Clark CEO of the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce, Gary Overs, Shelley Overs and Brian Simmer Bylaw Enforcement Officer for the City.

Obituaries / Memorials

MELVYN WALL

1942 - 2025

Melvyn Kenneth Wall, beloved husband of the late Gloria Wall, passed away in Taber on Friday, March 7, 2025 at the age of 82 years. He was born on April 19, 1942 in Regina, Saskatchewan.

The Funeral Service will be held at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 1:00 P.M. with Life Celebrant Shelly Dawn officiating. Condolences may be forwarded by visiting our website at www.southlandfuneral.com.

Those who are unable to attend and wish to view the service online may do so by visiting Melvyn’s obituary page on our website and clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 12:45 P.M. on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 1:00 P.M.

Melvyn is survived by his daughter Jean Belcastro of Taber; grandchildren Maria Belcastro, Francesco Belcastro, Melissa Belcastro, Bryan Wall Jr. and Kenny Wall Jr.; great grandchildren Taylor, Ryan, Alexandra and Julian; great great granddaughters Olive and Gia (soon to be born). He is also survived by his sister Mavis Golumbus.

He was predeceased by his wife Gloria; sons Bryan Wall and Kenneth Wall.

Arrangements in care of Southland Funeral Chapel, Taber, Alberta. Telephone: (403) 223-8778

‘Luna’ takes flight once again with 25th Street Theatre’s provincial tour

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A heartfelt journey through memory and time is making its way back to Saskatchewan students, including a visit to participating elementary schools in Moose Jaw on Friday, March 28.

After a widely successful 2024 premiere, Danielle Roy’s celebrated play Luna is returning for a second tour. Produced by 25th Street Theatre, the remount will bring the production to rural communities that rarely experience live theatre.

Zapshalla said the decision to revisit the production was an easy one. Despite the risks of launching a school tour after years of focusing primarily on Saskatoon performances, typically involving logistics and financing considerations, the demand was undeniable.

Luna was nominated for the 2023 Dorothy Lees-Blakey Theatre For Young Audiences Award and for the 2024 Excellence in New Work SATAward.

The play tells the story of a young girl, 12-year-old Luna, who builds a time machine in her dad’s garage to go back and unfreeze her mother who is trapped in time. Facing dinosaurs, robots, and childhood memories, Luna ultimately discovers that chasing the past is far more painful than facing the truth.

With themes of love, loss, and acceptance, the story has proven to resonate deeply with young audiences and explores the strength it takes to move forward in the face of grief and depression.

This year’s production will feature fresh creative elements, including new sets, revised sound design, lighting, and 3D puppets crafted by artist Ricardo Alvarado. Most of the original cast is returning, offering performers the opportunity to further explore their characters.

tion of theatre enthusiasts.

Following the school tours, Luna will hold three public performances at the BackStage Stage in Saskatoon’s Remai Arts Centre.

For more information and to purchase your tickets for the Saskatoon performances, visit 25thStreetTheatre.org/Luna2025.

- Anne Frank

After each school performance, students will also participate in interactive workshops led by the cast and crew of the play. Sessions will cover topics such as movement, storytelling, and prop creation, fostering a new genera-

Rev. Dr. John Kreutzwieser is a retired pastor from Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Moose Jaw, SK. He graduated with a doctorate degree in 2006 from the Robert Webber Institute for Worship Studies in Florida.

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

Plausible

I like to go swimming first thing in the morning at the Kinsmen Sportsplex. When I arrived the other morning, the hot tub had a sign indicating that it was closed. This seems to happen every once and awhile on a Monday morning after a busy weekend at the pool. It seems plausible to me that a chemical imbalance can happen over the busy weekend, and it takes some extra time on a Monday morning to get things in balance again. On that particular morning, true to form, the early morning team got things straightened out by the time I swam a bit and wanted to sit in the warm water with the soothing jets pulsing on some aching spots. Kudos (see August 14, 2024) to the early morning staff.

Plausible means reasonable or believable. It seems plausible that the Liberals will call an election soon, given a bump in the polls with a new leader to counter the uncertainty of trade issues around the world. Her story was so plausible that no one considered it might be an April Fool’s joke.

When plausible was first used in English it dealt

with the sensory, rather than the cerebral. In the mid1500’s plausible implied deserving of clapping or approval. Plausible comes from the Latin plausibilis, meaning worthy of appreciation, derived from the verb plaudere, meaning to applaud or clap. Other English words developed from plaudere include plaudit (enthusiastic approval) and explode (to burst forth with sudden violence or noise).

Plausible has a darker side to its usage in English, as it can imply that something is deceptive, seemingly true but potentially false. Plausible can describe a false impression, like a plausible excuse that in actuality is a lie.

Plausible can also infer appearing worthy of belief. The answer of the finance minister to the opposition’s question was powerful and plausible even though everyone knew he did not know much about the issue.

Plausible can suggest superficially pleasing and trustworthy. The investment advisor’s advice appeared plausible but he is, in reality, a con artist using trickery to defraud others of their hard-earned money.

Plausible can imply a veneer. The promoter had such a plausible presentation to the board but was in fact hiding something less desirable underneath his pleasing facade.

Synonyms to a negative sense of plausible include deceptive, specious, fallacious, and fraudulent.

Deceptive means tending or having power to cause someone to accept as true or valid what is false or invalid. The best villains in movies have a deceptive appearance. The knuckleball pitcher had a deceptive windup.

Specious suggests having a false look of truth or genuineness. The looter tried to justify his actions with specious reasoning.

Fallacious implies tending to deceive or mislead. It’s fallacious to say that something must exist because science hasn’t proven its nonexistence.

Fraudulent means characterized by, based on, or done by deceit. Criminals often make fraudulent use of stolen credit cards.

Synonyms to a positive meaning of plausible include credible, likely, and probable.

Credible means offering reasonable grounds for being believed or trusted. The credible witness persuaded the jury to render a guilty verdict. The information about the procedure comes from a credible source.

Likely suggests having a high chance of occurring or being true. Looking out the window first thing in the morning, I realized that there was a likely chance of rain.

Probable infers something that is supported by evidence strong enough to establish presumption but not proof. The prosecuting attorney presented a probable scenario for the crime but would it be enough for a conviction?

Perhaps you have heard the phrase ‘plausible deniability.’ It is the ability of people, typically senior officials in a formal or informal chain of command to deny knowledge or responsibility for actions committed by or on behalf of members of their organization. The key concept of plausible deniability is plausibility.

Again I express my gratitude to the team of workers at the pool for their ability to rectify the chemical imbalance of the hot tub in a plausible manner. And, as one might have exclaimed in the 1500s, “Their quick actions are plausible.”

Columnist John Kreutzwieser loves to research words and writes this weekly Word Wisdom column for Moose Jaw Express/MooseJawToday.com. He has an interest in the usage, origin, and relevance of words for society today. Greek and Latin form the basis of many words, with ancient Hebrew shedding light on word usage.

John would like to know if anyone has a sincere interest in a relevant word that he could possibly research for an upcoming column. If so, please send your requests to wordwisdom2021@gmail.com . Words will be selected according to relevance and research criteria. We cannot confirm that all words will be used.

Sask. farmland price increases lead Canada

Farmland values continued to churn upward in 2024, posting an average 9.3 per cent increase across Canada.

Land value increase in Saskatchewan was highest in the country for the second year running.

Farmers in this province saw land value increase by a robust 13.1 per cent, quite a bit less than the 18.7 per cent of 2023.

British Columbia prices averaged 11.1 per cent with Alberta at 7.7 per cent and Manitoba at 6.9 per cent.

Land prices within Saskatchewan regions varied wildly, ranging from increases of 4.7 per cent to 19.9 per cent for cultivated land.

Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express

In a similar vein price increases for pasture land varied from 2.9 per cent to 15.9 per cent.

The drought southwestern region saw the lowest rate on increase for cultivated land at 4.7 per cent, averaging $2,404 an acre. Price range varied from $1,400 to $4,000 an acre.

In pasture land the southwest led price increases at 15.9 per cent averaging $1,933 an acre. Prices ranged from $1,000 to $1,829 an acre.

Cultivated land prices in the northwest were up 19.9 per cent, averaging $3,500 an acre while northeastern prices were up 17.9 per cent for an $4,200 average.

West-central prices increased 17.9 per cent to average $3,500 while eastcentral prices increased 17.9 per cent to an average $3,200.

Southeast prices were up a mere 14.1 per cent to $3,300.

Irrigated land prices shot up 25.9 per cent to average $6,200 an acre in a range of $4,500 to $9,900.

Pasture land prices in the northwest increased 5.7 per cent to average $1,000 an acre.

In the northeast, pasture increased 11.7 per cent to average $992 an acre.

West-central pasture increased a mere 2.9 per cent to $1,002 an acre.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net -30

East-central pastureland was up a mere 1.9 per cent to average $993 an acre while pasture in the southeast was up 3.9 per cent to $1,108 average.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW

If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com

Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling club winter club closes March 27. The regular season will begin (we HOPE) in April. Phone 306-630-8160 for information. Watch for notices of season opening. Cosmo’s Crafts and Trade Fair at the corner of 3rd Ave NE and Fairford St will be held on Saturday, April 5th from 9am-3pm. Vendors will be selling jewellery, candles, homemade cards, pictures & paintings, books, towels, stuffies, toys, scrapbooking, knitted and crocheted crafts and delicious homemade baked items. Mary Kay, Fifth Avenue Jewellery, Watkins and Avon representatives will be at the Fair. For those looking for Easter Baskets there will be some for kids which will have toys and along with other baskets with chocolates. As we cannot forget the adults, there will be coffee and tea baskets as well to purchase. The Concession will be open and 50/50 tickets will also be sold.

The Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Association, Battleford, has been operating since 1983, and is proud of the Hall of Fame and Museum in Battleford. The 41st Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday, April 13 at 1pm, 2025 at The Saskatchewan Baseball Museum in Battleford, located at 292 - 22nd Street, Battleford. Are you interested in baseball? Are you interested in history? Are you interested in your community? Join the Board of Directors! We need you! Call Jane at 306 441 5886. Everyone is welcome at the AGM on April 13th!

1975 AE Peacock High School 50th Reunion June 13 &14, 2025 - 1975 AE Peacock 50th Reunion: Alumni and Friends. We are looking for former classmates and friends from 1975, and the years surrounding our time at Peacock High School. Email our celebration committee for more information, peacock1975reunion@gmail. com Please include your name and email address. Lawn Bowling is a sport for all levels of ability. During winter, Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling club invites everyone to try it on the turf at Yara Centre now at @10am - Instruction & play (at your pace) will be available Tues & Thurs mornings@ 10am. For more info phone or text 306-630-8160 or visit www.moosejawlawnbowling.com

Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: February, March, April and May. No meeting in December. Call or text 306 756 2819. The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held every 1st and 3rd Wednesday at 7 pm at St Andrews Church until May. Learning, comradery, fun challenges, quilting and Community Projects.

New Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw “The White Heather” for youth aged 8 to 12. Further information may be obtained by contacting Michelle Carline at mcarline@hotmail.com

The Moose Jaw Stamp Club will resume meeting on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The first meeting will be at 6:30pm, in Lindale School staff room, 1322 11th Avenue NW (north entrance). Phone 306-693-5705 for information.

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

Beginners, singles or doubles welcome!

Scottish Country Dance Classes for all ages on Thursdays at 7pm at 510 Main St. N (T. Eaton Bldg). No partner required. Call Val @306.630.5790.

Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month basis to take place on the third Friday of each month

Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m.

Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others?

Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well:-Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/ Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/ Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord.

Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a 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.

TOASTMASTERS organization provides communication and leadership skill training that fosters confidence building, personal and professional development in a supportive environment. Moose Jaw is home to 2 clubs: TAP and Big Country. TAP meets online on Tuesdays@7. TAP club is transitioning to a resource for building environmental awareness.

BIG COUNTRY meets Wednesdays@7 at Saskpolytech & on zoom(hybrid). For information text 306-690-8739

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 – 3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am. Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds. Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) offers meetings every Wednesday evening too in the Alliance Church located at the corner of 9th Ave NE and Thatcher Dr. Use the West side entrance and you’ll find us down the hall in room 107. Weigh ins are 6:30-7 followed by a half hour meeting. Scale weighs up to 500lbs. Join us as we support each other on our weight loss journeys. Visit www.tops. org for more information.

Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), 461 Langdon Cres. Phone 306.692.2787. Visit their website at https://www.moosejawlibrary.ca or visit ASK@ MOOSEJAWLIBRARY.CA

Some library programs require registration by calling 306-692-8210 or emailing nsetter@moosejawlibrary.ca

CHILDREN’S PRGRAMMING: DAYCARE STORYTIME Thursdays @10:30 am in

Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring daycare providers!

PRESCHOOL STORYTIME Wednesdays @10:30 am in Children’s Program Room for ages 2-5 and their caring adults!

LEGO WEEKENDS! Every Saturday and Sunday Open hours in Children’s Department for ages 4-12 self-guided activity

TUMBLEBOOKS FOR KIDS Available in the Digital Library; TumbleBook Library online collection of animated, talking picture books which teach young children the joys of reading in a format they’ll love. The site also includes chapter books, non-fiction books, graphics novels & more!

YOUTH PROGRAMMING:

DIGITAL D&D Fridays 4-6pm - MJPL Youth Discord Channel for ages 16-25. Registration required Email youth@mjlibrary.ca to inquire

TEEN D&D: RISE OF THE ELEMENTS Group 1 until Mar 25 at 7pm. Group 3 - Thursdays, until Mar 27 at 7pm…for ages 12-16. Registration required

ADULT PROGRAMMING:

TECH TIME Available by appointment during Open hours in Main Library for adults - please call the Library at 306-692-2787 to schedule an appointment.

The Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 268 High St W Moose Jaw Contact: 306-692-5453

Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw

Instagram: @Royalcanadianlegion59

BINGO – Monday @ 6pm

CRIBBAGE –Tuesday @ 1:30 pm - Please sign-in by 1pm

MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome Moose Jaw and District Seniors: For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open MonThurs 8am – 8pm.

Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open MThurs 8am-8pm and on Fri 8am-4pm

Wood working area – Mon- Fri 8am – 4pm

Timothy Eaton Cafe open Mon-Fri 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. Cinnamon Buns on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed.

Billiards daily 8a.m. – 4p.m.; Monday & Thursday evenings 4:30 – 8 p.m.

Pickle Ball – Monday & Thursday mornings @ 9a.m/Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m./Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 p.m./ Weds pickleball @5pm

Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Tuesdays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.; Whist –Tuesday @ 9:30am; Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am.; Mah

Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm; 500 Cards – Thursdays @ 1 p.m; Spades – Tuesday and Fridays 1pm ON HOLD

Full Body work out – Monday’s 10am

Scrabble – Monday’s at 1pm

Line Dancing – Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

Intro to Line Dancing – Wednesday’s @ 11am

Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Circle Dancing – Thursday 2:15pm

Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Friday 9am to 4pm

Lounge – Friday’s from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm

Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm

Floor Curling – Wednesday and Fridays @1pm New to the Centre is BINGO every Monday at 1:30pm

Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net Check them out on Facebook.

Monday: Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am/ Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 3:45

Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am

Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/1pm-Floor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking - 11:30am/Art Drop In - 1:00pm/Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: 9:00am-Beginner Pickleball/1pm-Regular Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball - 9:30am and Pickleball - 1:00pm Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net Open Monday to Saturday, 12 pm to closing. Closed on Sundays and stat holidays. Upcoming: March 20th Rib Night at the Crushed Can. Tickets are $25 each. We will also have a 50/50 draw. For tickets, please contact 306-692-4412.

Hiring part time bartenders. Please drop your resume off at 279 High St. W. Every Saturday Meat Draws. Draws start at 4:30 pm with 10 meat draws, gift cards and 50/50. Everyone is welcome.

FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395 EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL –1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play. FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting –11:30 am

FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm

DROP IN DARTS - Every Wednesday evening and continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, draw for partners, starts at 7:00 pm.

DROP IN CRIBBAGE - Every Monday evening and continues until April, 2025 - $2.00 per person, registration between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm – play starts at 7:00 pm.

Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca

306-694-4747

324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK

Derek McRitchie REALTOR® (306) 631-1161

E.G. (Bub) Hill REALTOR® (306) 631-9966

Bill McLean REALTOR® (306) 630-5409

Tanya Minchin

(306) 630-6231

Cassie Nichol REALTOR® (306) 631-0691

Justin Hammer

(306)684-4266

piece guest bathroom, laundry/mud room, large walk-through pantry, basement level family, games room (the pool table stays) and bar, 2 additional bedrooms, full bath with steam shower. pool with hydraulic cover, and a pool house this is a must see there is too many features to list!

Moose Jaw ranks among top 2025 travel destinations, according to Airbnb

As spring approaches, Canadians are setting their sights on local getaways — with Moose Jaw emerging as one of the top trending domestic destinations for 2025, according to new Airbnb insights.

Airbnb reports indicate that domestic travel has steadily increased in recent years. In 2023 alone, nearly eight million domestic guest arrivals were recorded on the platform, marking a 30 per cent increase since 2019.

Linda Hoang, a consultant with Veritas Inc., attributes this shift to a combination of economic factors and a renewed appreciation for local experiences.

“More Canadians are choosing to stay local, helping support Canadian hosts and small businesses,” Hoang wrote. “Along the way, they’re discovering hidden gems and revisiting favourite destinations.”

Moose Jaw’s tourism appeal

Moose Jaw’s inclusion on Airbnb’s list of top-trending destinations shows its growing appeal among Canadian travellers. According to Airbnb, the city offers a mixture of history, culture, and relaxation, making it an attractive destination for a variety of travellers.

Visitors highlight the famous Tunnels of Moose Jaw, soaking in the Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa’s geothermal mineral pool, and enjoying the city’s lively arts and dining scene.

Moose Jaw joins other trending Canadian destinations including Quebec City, Summerside, P.E.I., and Yellowknife, N.W.T., which have all seen a

similar uptick in interest this year.

Spring travel trends in 2025

Airbnb data reveals key trends in Canadian spring travel choices. Couples are leading the way, with two-person bookings making up more than 40 per cent of spring travel currently. Solo travel is also surging, with nearly 30 per cent of travellers embracing independent adventures.

Pet-friendly travel has grown by over 14 per cent, as more guests include their furry companions and choose to drive rather than fly. One likely reason for the growing trend in driving is to keep vacations more affordable, especially for families.

This shift reflects a growing preference for flexible, personalized experiences that cater to individual lifestyles. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a pet-friendly escape, Canadians are prioritizing unique and memorable experiences close to home, including “bucket list” items, home-style

getaways, and “off the beaten path” adventures.

Canadians are still showing interest in international getaways with a shift toward overseas destinations. According to Airbnb data, top-trending international destinations for 2025 include Osaka, Japan, Firenze (Florence), Italy, and Medellin, Colombia.

Travel to the U.S.

In 2025, Canadian travel patterns have noticeably changed regarding trips to the United States, with political tensions and shifting preferences cited as key factors, according to data from Leger360.com.

A survey conducted by Abacus Data revealed that 62 per cent of Canadians plan to avoid the U.S. for at least the next year, primarily due to political factors and economic concerns like the weak Canadian dollar. Similarly, a Leger survey found that 48 per cent of Canadians are less likely to visit the U.S. in 2025 compared to 2024, with older Ca-

nadians and those from higher-income households leading the trend.

According to the same sources, 61 per cent of those avoiding travel to the U.S. intend to explore Canada instead, with 75 per cent choosing to vacation within the country.

Detroit and Columbus are among the most-searched American cities among Canadians. These two U.S. cities represent a trend toward driving destinations over air travel, and both are nearby border towns.

Contrasting with international travel interest, the Airbnb report shows a nearly 20 per cent increase in searches for domestic trips in Canada this year, as compared to 2024.

With local travel on the rise, Moose Jaw is poised to see increased tourism in 2025, drawing Canadian travellers with its charm, culture, and small-town hospitality.

For more information visit News. Airbnb.com.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Mac the Moose is an iconic landmark for tourists in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker