Large steel frame shop, over 6200 rentable sqft, with land much, easy access from 9th Ave NW, tail storefront, second floor offices, and large heated warehouse(s). Washrooms on both levels, 3 shop spaces, easily opened up for a single user, 4 overhead doors!
1005 Vaughan St (SK024225)
$299,500
3 beds, 2 baths, double garage, spacious eat-in kitchen, open concept living, 2 bedrooms, each with patio doors, downstairs renovated family room, bedroom, 3 piece bathroom, fully fenced backyard, tiered deck, double garage!
Mazenod Quarter Section (SK021443)
$699,000
No ROFR, Leased in 2025, but can be farmed by successful buyer in spring 2026. Very good quarter section just north of Mazenod. Mostly Ardill Clay Loam. SCIC letter graded as H soil. 148 cultivated acres per SAMA with a total assessment of $273,200. Asking 2.55x assessment.
367 Daniel Drive (SK020747)
$649,900
Lakefront living, 3-bedroom, 1-bath four-season thoughtfully maintained, designed for comfort, this inviting property offers breathtaking views, perfect blend of indoor and outdoor living, open-concept living, enjoy the serenity of the water, beauty of the landscape, comfort of a home for all seasons!
1120 3rd Ave NW (SK024066)
$234,900
Character home, stunning 2.5 story home, 50’ lot, sunroom, newer windows, foyer, office, living space, dining , brick mantle, gas fireplace, eat-in kitchen, upstairs, 4 bedrooms, 3 piece bath, up yet again, loft, basement, family room, laundry, covered deck, garage, many updates!
432 Main St N (SK021356) FOR LEASE $14/SQ FT
3,900 sq. ft. Main Street lease space combines classic charm with unbeatable visibility—an opportunity that’s as rare as it is versatile, multiple offices,
side of the causeway!
$149,900
Decreased
925 Hall Street W
MLS® #SK022499
4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms with 2,058 sqft. 2 spacious bedrooms & a living room leading to a dining area with space for all. A well designed kitchen that steps onto a fabulous back deck with privacy wall overlooking a lovely backyard!
$214,900
Main Street Central Butte
#SK000379
Build either a residential or a commercial property on Main Street! The lot is 50x90 (.22 acres) in size offering plenty of space for your building project! The neighbouring lot is available to purchase if you need more space!!
$5,200
1 Sunset Boulevard MLS® #SK994261
The lots begin only 1km from High way #2, north side of the causeway, off the main road (quiet!), year- round access (of course!)! Some of the Difley Estates lots may suit a walk-out design! Spacious size lot, and services adjacent! Lot size is 1.57 acres.
$250,000
2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with 1,281 sqft . an open concept floor plan, fabulous kitchen design, living room with fireplace, plus views of the park across the street! The primary suite is very special with a walk-in closet & en-suite bath.
$419,900
#SK019602 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms spacious bungalow-style home complete with an attached garage. A spacious living room, a well-designed kitchen with an adjacent dining area large enough for all of your important diners! Yes, there is a main floor laundry room! Down the hall, you find a full bathroom & 3 bedrooms!
$250,000
Christmas & Happy Holidays From My Family To Yours
December Specials
MOOSE JAW’S HOMEGROWN NEWSPAPER
The Moose Jaw and District Kin Club is inviting residents to once again “Nominate Your Neighbour” this Christmas, as the uplifting community program returns for its third year to support locals who could use a boost during the holidays.
The initiative invites residents to confidentially submit the name of a deserving friend, family member, coworker, or neighbour who has been struggling, inspiring others, or simply deserving of a little seasonal cheer. The nomination deadline is Monday, Dec. 8, and names will be randomly drawn on Dec. 9, followed by hamper deliveries on Dec. 21.
“It’s the third year that we’re running it, and it’s just for the community and surrounding areas,” explained club president Jessie Hall. “If you have a neighbour who just needs a little pick me up, or has had some medical issues this year or … financial struggles … you can stay anonymous and nominate them (to win a food hamper).”
The nomination process is simple: residents can fill out a one-page form online, including the recipient’s name, contact number, and a brief explanation of why they were nominated.
Each basket provides the makings of a full Christmas dinner. According to
Hall, hampers will include turkey, stuffing, an assortment of vegetables, and a 10-pound bag of potatoes.
“We’re hoping to have enough funding for about 15 baskets this year, depending on the cost of food,” Hall noted.
Previous nominations have included families facing medical challenges, newcomers still finding their footing in the city, and residents admired for their positivity.
“Some examples from the past include new neighbours, another neighbour whose family was all coming home for Christmas … and another who went through chemo treatments. So yeah, it (covers) a little bit of anything,” Hall
said. “If you’re thinking about (that person), shoot (the nomination) away. Everyone goes in a pool, and we just draw from there.”
Ultimately, the campaign is rooted in a spirit of reciprocity. “Moose Jaw does a lot for us, so we’re just trying to give back to the community,” she said.
While Hall is still relatively new to the Kin Club, she said the feedback from the two earlier campaigns has been overwhelmingly positive from both recipients and volunteers.
“We all take a few baskets and go around town. It’s nice and rewarding to be able to come up on someone’s doorstep with a whole big hamper of food,” she said. “It’s (also) a donation back to the community from the Moose Jaw Kin Club.”
For more information on the Moose Jaw and District Kin Club, visit District3Kin.com, “Moose Jaw & District Kin Club” on Facebook, or email MooseJawKinetteClub@gmail.com.
To access the nomination form, search for the link on the club’s Facebook page or visit TinyURL.com/ MooseJawKinClub.
Service providers excited about proposed wellness centre
Some community-based organizations (CBOs) are thrilled that a businessman wants to convert a former warehouse into a wellness and recovery centre that would offer services such as counselling and detoxification.
Dozens of people from service providers, the city, and interested residents toured the former CanaDay’s Apparel Ltd. warehouse at 115 Coronation Drive on Nov. 21.
The 4,500 - square-metre (50,000square-foot) venue operated from 1954 until its closure in 2017.
Brandon Cochrane, owner of Right At Homes Builders, and other partners purchased the building six months ago and want to establish a 15-person mental health and addiction treatment centre. The venue — 40,000 square feet is usable — would be similar to Prairie Sky Recovery Centre Inc. in Wilkie and Eagle Heart Centre in Regina.
The main programs for the proposed Betterdays Community Wellness Centre — to be open 24/7 —would include seven- to 180-day wellness and stabilization programs, family services, mental health counselling, addiction counselling, 180day medical assessments and detox services, life skills training and employment support, and community transition
planning.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
The site is zone M2 heavy industrial, but must be changed to M1 light industrial for the wellness centre to operate.
An exciting idea
Tara Jones, executive director of Moose Jaw Family Services, said she was excited about the proposed project, while she thought that many CBOs desired to have a space to work collaboratively.
“And I think that this is potentially that idea coming to fruition,” she remarked.
Continuing, Jones said there are many challenges to address before this venue becomes operational, such as how CBOs can promote the project’s benefits, how groups can change people’s minds to accept something new and how to make the initiative happen.
Meanwhile, this issue was about bringing everyone together to offer something different.
“All of our CBOs work on … shoestring budgets. And our dollars are earmarked for specific things,” she added. “We can’t just use the dollars from (our budgets) over here … . But I think that with the right group of people, I think we have the potential to do something really amazing.”
Moose Jaw is a collaborative community, as many CBOs work together on committees and organizations, Jones said. However, they also have their own mandates and objectives that don’t always align, which can create silos.
Yet, she “absolutely” knew there were tangible benefits of community organizations working in the same building. She pointed out that every CBO’s main goal is to serve residents, so they
not all — of those services could move to the wellness centre. This would make it easier to collaborate, something he does regularly in the construction industry.
CanaDay’s Apparel built its warehouse in 1954 and added to it in 1964 and 1972, with more than 300 employees working there at its peak, Cochrane said, noting that his team has hauled 300 loads to the dump over the past six months.
could do better work if they collaborated more closely.
During an informal meeting with Cochrane after the tour, an employee from one CBO said, “I think it’s a great idea,” while another said, “All I can say is I wish you good luck. I have advocated for this building and location publicly for the last two years. … it’s desperately needed, so I hope it works out.”
Serving the community Cochrane told MooseJawToday. com that he and his partners thought about turning the warehouse into a wrestling training centre or a fitness centre. However, they knew mental health and addictions were big issues, so after talking with CBOs and having people come forward, the project “kind of snowballed from there.”
Continuing, he said they have received plenty of positive feedback, along with some concerns. Specifically, people are concerned about the location and that it’s far from downtown, where all the services are.
Yet, he pointed out that some — but
Meanwhile, there are 44 lots on site, but before he consolidates them into two, he needs city council to approve his rezoning request. This would allow for the establishment of a temporary homeless shelter.
“Winter’s coming, and so I’m pushing (city hall) maybe a little harder than I should, but we have to do something for the community,” he continued. “The ball’s rolling; I’d like to keep it rolling … .”
Cochrane said supporting less fortunate people is important because he was born here and he has always enjoyed helping others and solving problems. However, his expertise is in construction and carpentry, so that’s why he wants to bring together CBOs, non-profits and other groups.
He pointed out that the community has changed over the past decade, as drugs have become harder and more people have become addicts. So, he thought this venue was an opportunity to “reteach life” to people; he acknowledged that there is “no perfect spot” for a homeless shelter or treatment centre.
“I can see the problem. I can’t solve it, but I can help aid the (solution) by creating a massive space to put everything under one roof,” Cochrane added.
Brandon Cochrane, owner of Right At Homes Builders, stands in an office in the former CanaDay Apparel’s warehouse. He and business partners have bought the building and want to turn it into a wellness centre and temporary shelter. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Brandon Cochrane (right) speaks to service providers and other community groups about his vision for the wellness centre. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
A page from the proposed project. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Visitors tour the venue. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
Peacock’s annual ‘Polar Bear Run’ to honour Jana Polupski on Dec. 7
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Peacock Collegiate will hold its 14th annual “Polar Bear Run” at the school on Sunday, Dec. 7 at 11 a.m.
The non-competitive fivekilometre walk or run supports the Terry Fox Foundation, with participants encouraged to bring a monetary donation. Organizer Sarah Rockey said the event has raised nearly $50,000 over the years and will be held in honour of former Peacock teacher Jana Po-
lupski, a longtime supporter who died earlier this year. Donations of $15 or more earn a Peacock lanyard, and $25 or more include a raffle ticket.
After the run, free hot chocolate, hot dogs, cookies, and muffins will be available in the school lounge. No registration is required and walkers, runners, and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, call A.E. Peacock Collegiate at 306-693-4626.
Regina Symphony Orchestra returns to Moose Jaw Dec. 4
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Regina Symphony Orchestra (RSO) is bringing the sound of live classical music back to Moose Jaw with two performances on Thursday, Dec. 4.
The Regina Symphony Chamber Players — a core ensemble of RSO musicians — will perform a free afternoon concert at the Moose Jaw Public Library from 4 to 4:45 p.m. The event is open to all ages, requires no registration, and will take place in the library’s main section. Seating will be limited.
Later that evening, the full
orchestra will take the stage at the Mae Wilson Theatre for
A Classical Christmas, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The ticketed concert is part of the RSO’s On the Road series, bringing festive seasonal music to communities across southern Saskatchewan.
For details about the library performance, visit MooseJawLibrary.ca or call 306-692-2787. Tickets for the Mae Wilson concert are available through ReginaSymphony.com or by calling 306-5869555.
Boosting Manufacturing Sector Growth
Applications are now open for the Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Investment Tax Credit, a new program designed to help Saskatchewan businesses attract investment and expand operations. Applications for both businesses and investors are being accepted through the SME Tax Credit Online Application Portal until June 2028.
The 31st of December 2025 marks a significant milestone in my life. For the past 26 years, I’ve had the honor of serving the Moose Jaw and surrounding communities, this place has been my professional home, where I’ve grown, learned and advanced through countless roles starting as Internal Medicine Specialist then as Head of Internal Medicine department and Director of Intensive Care and Director of Cardiopulmonary department and then as Senior Medical Officer after all these responsibilities in the service of the area of “The Five Hills Region” I continued as an internal medicine specialist and in-charge Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Unit in Saskatchewan Health Authority.
I truly believe my success is a reflection of the incredible people I have been working with: the nursing staff, technologist, hyperbaric staff and my colleagues in all the departments. Most importantly, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my patients, who have trusted me with their care over the years.
It has been an amazing journey serving this community, and I am forever grateful for everyone who has been part of it.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of your lives and I wish my patients, colleagues and friends a healthy, happy and prosperous life.
Hon. Tim McLeod, MLA for Moose Jaw North (306) 692-8884 | mjnorthmla@sasktel.net
Editor’s Note
JOAN RITCHIEMoose Jaw Express EDITOR
As a grandma of four grandsons, I am continually amazed as to the very unique and special individuals each one is and just how brilliant a young mind can be. Kids can teach us a lot about life; something we forgot a long time ago.
I am going to share a very sweet story about our four year-old grandson Jiro, the youngest of the bunch. Yes, his name is very unique and Japanese. Our son and his Japanese wife decided to give both their sons Japanese names that I find very endearing, honouring her heritage as such.
To set the stage, he goes to school
in New Westminster and is in Kindergarten. He is a pretty astute kid, considering he is the youngest brother of a nine year-old who probably has helped to teach him a lot of what he knows to date.
This is his story relayed to our son by his teacher on Thursday, November 27.
“Today during outdoor play in Seamless Day Kindergarten, the children were running and laughing in the rain. As I looked around, something unusual caught my eyes – a big whisk basket balanced on top of four stacked tires. This basket usually sits on the opposite side of the play area and holds large loose parts, so I wondered, ‘Why was it here? Who moved it? And why on tires?’
“I walked over and peeked inside. To my surprise, Jiro was sitting inside the basket!
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
“Jiro, what are you doing in there?” I asked. No answer so I tried again playfully. “Knock! Knock! Who’s there?”Jiro popped his head out with a huge smile. When I asked why he was hiding under the basket, his answer made me pause: “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time.”
I asked, “So, are you playing a game? What kind of game?”
Jiro replied, “I’m playing hideand-seek.”
“Who are you playing with? Who is the seeker?”
His response was magical: “The rain. I’m playing hide-andseek with the rain.”
Suddenly everything made sense –the effort to move the basket, empty it, stack the tires and climb into them. Jiro had imagined this play long before and used the rainy day as his chance. It was funny, creative and deeply thoughtful.
He saw nature as a friend to play with, turning a simple moment into something extraordinary.
“For safety, we supervised for a short while and then asked Jiro to come out. He happily returned the basket and materials back to their place.
“Jiro’s play shows incredible imagination and problem solving. He planned, created and expressed his ideas in a way that connected him to nature. This reminds us of how important it is to give children space for open-ended play – they see possibilities we might never think of. Moments like this show that play isn’t just fun; it is how children explore, dream, and build relationships with the world around them.”
Oh to be young again! But better than that is living vicariously through the eyes of a young, adventurous and playful grandson!
Humane Society launches capital campaign to build new shelter
The Moose Jaw Humane Society (MJHS) is moving forward with longanticipated plans to build a new animal shelter, announcing the official launch of its Capital Campaign.
The shelter recently announced that the groundwork is now firmly in place. Architectural drawings are finished, land for the future facility has been secured, and the Humane Society has already saved 40 per cent of the required funds. A dedicated capital campaign fund has also been established through the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation.
Kelsey Leschasin, the shelter’s fundraising co-ordinator, said the need for a new facility is urgent.
“We are in desperate need of a new building, like, desperate,” she said, noting that current space limitations are tied to evolving national shelter standards.
As regulations for humane housing have expanded, the existing building — now 40 years old — simply cannot keep up.
“Since this building was (designed and) built, standards in shelters have changed. So, where we used to be able to hold 50 cats, those individual cages now have to be two in one, so we had to double them in size. So now, that made it
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
as “a shadow of what it once was, deeply affecting our ability to provide the level of care that every animal deserves,” adding that the condition is “not just a challenge; it is a heartbreak.”
The proposed shelter will introduce features such as improved medical isolation spaces, greater adoption room capacity, safer and healthier kennel layouts, and a more ergonomic and secure work environment for staff and volunteers.
mals currently in care and the long-term vision for a new shelter. “Help us build a safer, healthier future for Moose Jaw’s animals,” the campaign message reads.
so we have 25 spaces available for cats,” she explained.
Leschasin stressed that animal care at the current shelter remains compassionate and attentive, but the infrastructure itself is restrictive.
“We are still giving the animals the best care possible, and they are getting good care here,” Leschasin said. “The issue is that we are limited for space (and cannot take on additional animals).”
The MJHS has operated since 1966, beginning in a one-room schoolhouse before upgrading to the existing building erected in 1985. Today, the facility’s age and deterioration are no longer just practical hurdles, but emotional ones. The organization described its current building
In addition, the conceptual design includes private rooms for families — one for those saying goodbye to pets being brought in for cremation, and another for those spending time with an animal they are considering adopting. The organization said these rooms will “ensure dignity, respect, and comfort for both people and pets.”
Modern infrastructure is also part of the plan. The new shelter will include proper heating, ventilation, and air conditioning to prevent disease transmission, stainless-steel food-preparation areas to reduce contamination risk, and a secure garage space for MJHS vehicles to improve operational safety and efficiency.
The launch of the campaign coincided with Giving Tuesday, which invited residents to support both the ani-
For decades, residents have stepped up whenever animals needed assistance, and the MJHS said that support now represents a transformation. “Your support for our Capital Campaign is not just appreciated — it’s a lifeline,” the organization stated. “With your help, we can build a shelter that will serve our community and its animals for decades to come.”
Residents who wish to support the campaign can donate directly through the South Saskatchewan Community Foundation to the Moose Jaw Humane Society Capital Campaign Fund. Contributions can be made online at SSCF. ca/funds, by cheque, or by contacting the Foundation for other giving options. Donations can also be made at MJHS.ca, with more information on the “Donate” page.
All donations are eligible for a charitable tax receipt and go directly toward building the new shelter.
The Moose Jaw Humane Society is located at 1755 Stadacona Street West and can be reached at 306-692-1517.
An early concept rendering of the proposed Moose Jaw Humane Society shelter, designed to provide larger animal housing areas and improved visitor space. Photo by: Moose Jaw Humane Society
WDM helping ‘drive away hunger’ with food bank fundraiser
Many people struggle with food insecurity during the Christmas season, so the vehicle-focused Western Development Museum (WDM) is using this festive time to help “drive away hunger.”
The WDM kicked off its “Stuff the Superior Food Drive” on Monday, Dec. 1, and is encouraging residents to donate non-perishable items to fill the back of the organization’s 1925 Chevrolet Superior truck, located in the building lobby.
Residents can drop off donations during regular museum hours, although the building closes at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, while it is closed on Dec. 25 and 26 and Jan. 1.
The fundraiser runs until Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026, while residents who donate will receive a special WDM button featuring a car to show their support for community and kindness.
The WDM launched the fundraiser because food insecurity is in the news regularly, while Moose Jaw is no different from other communities, said Karla Rasmussen, the museum’s operations manager. Furthermore, this is the time of year when residents who are in a strong financial position consider supporting this cause.
“And we like to think that the WDM is a community space for gathering, for visiting (and) for socializing,” she continued. “And we thought this might be a nice way to give back to our community for those folks that might be struggling a little bit this time of year.”
Rasmussen noted that she read articles about how food banks see an influx of people during the Christmas season, which usually leads to empty shelves in the new year. So, the WDM thought this fundraiser would work since Christmas is one of its busiest seasons, as people come home for Christmas, residents bring family and friends to activities and children are out of school.
“… it’s a new partnership for us. We have not worked with (the food bank) before. And we thought it was just a nice way to give back that way,” she said.
The food bank recently issued one of its annual appeal letters that listed some items it needs, while it also discussed a “reverse Advent calendar” — which the WDM is distributing — with objects or food items
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
it most needs, Rasmussen continued. Many needed items are hygiene-related, since they help make people feel comfortable.
The operations manager added that the food bank also posts a “wish list” of items on social media, so anyone who wants to know what to donate can go online or call the nonprofit at 306-692-3855.
Meanwhile, the 1925 truck acts as an ambassador for the museum, since it’s in the lobby and people can touch it, sit in it and take their picture with it, Rasmussen said. Staff can also keep an eye on it and the donations.
The vehicle has an interesting history since it began life as a car, but at some point, it was damaged after an airplane in Regina was taxiing in and clipped the automobile, she continued. As WDM volunteers were restoring it, they made the decision to convert the car into a truck.
“(Food insecurity) is a very modern problem, but I think even historically, there’s been times where folks in our province have struggled financially (as) a lot of farming things
have happened,” Rasmussen said. “Think back to the Dirty Thirties when there was crop failure.”
So, food security is not new, but the media amplifies that problem even more than 100 years ago and people are more aware of what’s happening, she noted. That awareness means people in strong financial positions can do something to give back.
Rasmussen added that food bank staff and volunteers “have big hearts,” while it was heartwarming to think of the work the non-profit does in Moose Jaw. She encouraged residents to be generous with their donations, as even the smallest contributions can help the community.
For more information, call the WDM at 306-6935989 or the food bank at 306-692-3855.
Gary McDowell
Michelle Ellis
Karla Rasmussen, the WDM’s operations manager, showcases some of the food donations the organization has already received. The donations will be placed in the back of a 1925 Chevrolet Superior truck. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
By Joyce Walter - for Moose Jaw Express
Christmas vacation travel prize offered in scam: humbug Reflective Moments
I might have just turned down the best Christmas presents ever to come uninvited to our household.
But then again, maybe these gift horses needed to be looked in the mouth.
It was a typical day: doing paperwork, baking in a dysfunctional oven, catching up on dishes waiting to be scrubbed, making to-do lists in my head.
The telephone rang — the one that’s connected to land and whose number is still in that thing called a “telephone book” —and I hurried to answer in case it was an important call.
It wasn’t, but thank you to the man on the other end who so kindly offered to do whatever he needed to make sure my Microsoft computer worked to my expectations. I hope his ear wasn’t damaged when my receiver was hung up with determination, after a tiny white falsehood disclaiming ownership of a computer.
Then the phone rang again, with call display showing a 693 prefix, suggesting it might be someone calling from down the street or across town. It was across a town alright, but the town wasn’t
Moose Jaw and again I hung up on the caller who told me my Visa charge card needed attention. I don’t have one of that kind but give her an E for effort and for what must be extraordinarily thick skin.
Sometime later in the evening another call came in, telling me that once again someone had gone on an Amazon shopping spree and I now owed $1,000. I hung up and quizzed Housemate about his shopping habits. He entered a not guilty plea.
The best scam call of recent memory came from a lady’s voice on the other end who pointed out that a friend who recently travelled with me had entered my name to receive a Christmas getaway vacation at the hotel chain who
hired this telemarketer. I will not reveal the hotel’s name so as not to give this company any unpaid promotional space.
The tape-recorded script said I would be able to pick the hotel’s location of my choice and while in residence, I would be treated to all sorts of amenities such as a spa visit, esthetic treatments, fine dining experiences and discounts at nearby shops. Yeah, right.
There might have been some excitement if the other side of the conversation had been spontaneous, and if the reputation of this chain of hotels had not already been tarnished through past encounters.
I hung up before hearing the whole speech so therefore I wonder now if I weren’t hasty in disconnecting the call. Perhaps I should have waited to hear how much this getaway would cost me, for certainly there would be costs for being selected for this prestigious vacation
prize.
Secondly, maybe a Christmas retreat to a hotel by this name in Hawaii might have been a worthwhile trip of escape from winter in Saskatchewan, even with unspecified costs thrown in.
Most curious though would be to learn the identity of the so-called friend who had recently travelled with me and entered my name. My only travel companion of any distance has been Housemate and he knows better than to enter my name in such phoney contests.
Maybe the nice lady will call again and provide answers to all those questions and might even be able to tell me if turkey is served on Christmas Day in this hotel’s restaurant in Hawaii. If it isn’t a real turkey that once had feathers, I’m not interested.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
MOOSE JAW POLICE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS NOTES
THE NEXT POLICE BOARD MEETING IS WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17.
MJPS plans to buy nearly $2.5M in equipment over next five years
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
cated that the police service’s 2026 reserve contribution requirement from the operating budget is $282,745 for major equipment and $142,454 for small equipment, for a total of
helmets, a freezer, a tent, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and supplies for the UAV.
a total of $2,497,262, the report showed.
Major equipment
However, a credit of $37,703 from interest on the control account reduces that total to $387,496, the report added. This is $28,867 less compared to this year’s contri-
The agency plans to spend $135,000 next year to purchase several major items, the report said.
The organization expects to have $2,290,376 available from depreciation during that period, with $206,885 to come from the control account to top up the purchase requirements.
Uncompleted works
These include five biometric sensors for $28,000, an incar video unit for $17,000, four portable radios for $10,000, 25 red-dot firearm sights for $25,000 and an unmarked cruiser for $55,000.
The equipment reserve budget lists 22 items worth $815,356 next 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
Some major items include an intoxilyzer, Versaterm hardware, a prisoner van, video security for the cells and building, several vehicles, mobile radar
The report added that there is $314,154 worth of small equipment items on the uncompleted works list, which brings the total amount to $1,129,510.
Just about the time most of us finally learn all the answers, they change all the questions
Peacock Arts Collective set to present Broadway classic musical ‘Annie’
The spotlight is about to shine on one of Broadway’s enduring classics as the Peacock Arts Collective proudly prepares to present “Annie,” with three shows running Dec. 4 to 6 inside the Centennial Auditorium at A.E. Peacock Collegiate.
Based on the book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse, and lyrics by Martin Charnin, the Peacock production remains true to the canonical stage version.
“The copyright said 1977, so that is one of the originals,” said director Ray Deans. “The different versions of the movie have changed … but this is from the original Broadway production.”
The story of “Annie” follows a hopeful orphan who finds a new life beyond Miss Hannigan’s orphanage with the help of Oliver Warbucks. Featuring “Hard Knock Life,” “Tomorrow,” and “Easy Street,” the show blends humour, heart, and resilience.
Jen Hemstock, vocal director and choreographer, said the choice was driven by the strengths of this year’s cast. “We were coming off ‘Matilda’ last year, and we were looking at our wonderful, talented group of students. When we pick our show, we’re always trying to pick something that’s a good fit for who we have in the cast … The more we looked at ‘Annie,’ the more reason we had to do it … ‘Annie’ was the right fit for our school this year.”
She said one of the most rewarding parts is watching students develop. “I like seeing the cast grow as actors, as performers, and … as people,” Hemstock said. “It’s a privilege to watch that.”
Deans said the production includes 45 actors, around a dozen crew members, and “a lot of kids (helping) out in different areas like construction classes.” This includes a uniquely designed, student-built backdrop. “The rotation (of this backdrop) is something I haven’t done before,” he added. All told, Deans noted that around 80 students were involved in one way or another.
Among them is Grade 11 student and stage manager Aubrey Moore, who has been involved in the drama program since Grade 9.
“At the beginning, when we’re just practising and getting to know the lines,
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
I’ll write down the blocking. If anybody has any questions, I’ll try to help them with that,” she explained. “As it goes on, I help with props, tell people where to put things, and (make sure) lighting and sound cues … go on time. I just keep everything organized backstage and try to make it as smooth as possible for the actors.”
Moore said many people don’t realize how much movement takes place behind the curtain. When asked to share something audiences never get to see, she pointed to “how crowded it is backstage with the huge props,” adding that “there’s barely any space.”
Grade 12 student Lukas Mushens plays the character Rooster Hannigan.
“I love being able to make jokes with the people (who are) on stage with me. One of my good friends plays Agatha Hannigan — Rooster’s sister — and I love being able to build off her and make our friendship into a sibling bond that we get to share on stage,” he said.
Mushens said he relishes the comedic side of Rooster, particularly the loud, over-the-top moments. “I love getting to scream and act like a chicken. Twice I get to yell out into the audience and go ‘Cock a doodle doo’ … It makes everyone laugh. What more can you ask for?”
Deans said the show will make an ideal outing for audiences of all ages.
“It’s a family-friendly show that, no matter what age you are, you will enjoy the acting, music, and the choreography.
It’ll be a good time for all,” he said. Hemstock added: “Come out and watch our show. ‘Annie’ has absolutely everything that you would want to watch as an audience member in a Broadway show.”
Performances start at 7 p.m. on Dec.
4 and 5, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 6. Tickets can be purchased at SaskTix.ca and are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under.
Peacock Collegiate is located at 145 Ross Street East and can be accessed from the north doors.
Students with the Peacock Arts Collective rehearse for their upcoming production of “Annie” at the Centennial Auditorium on Nov. 25. Photos by: Aaron Walker
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
While rooting around in a box of recipes, what should appear but a tiny booklet of “kitchen tested recipes,” produced by an early maker of chocolate chipits.
Other than to say this particular booklet is the fifth edition, there is no indication of the publication date, but the previous owner obviously used it many times, judging by the various stains on the cover and inside. More than 75 recipes for chocolate or butterscotch cookies and cakes are contained in the booklet and three of them are included in this week’s column. •
OLD-TIME
CHIPITS COOKIES
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1 egg, well beaten
1 cup plus 2 tbsps. sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped, optional
1-6 oz. pkg. chocolate Chipits
Cream together the butter, sugars and vanilla until light and fluffy. Fold in egg and beat.
Holiday baking will likely include chocolate chips
Sift together the flour, soda and salt and then add to butter mixture. Stir in Chipits and walnuts and mix thoroughly.
Drop by small spoonful on a greased baking sheet. Heat oven to 375 degrees F. Put cookie sheet with dough into oven and bake about 10 minutes. Do not over bake. Makes about 4 1/2 dozen cookies.
BANANA CHIPIT COOKIES
1 cup mashed banana
2 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2/3 cup butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tsps. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1-6 oz. pkg. Chipits
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Sift together and set aside the dry ingredients. Cream shortening and sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add vanilla and chipits.
Add dry ingredients and then bananas, mixing after
each addition.
Cool mixture about 10 minutes in refrigerator. Drop by teaspoonfuls, well apart, onto a greased cookie sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Makes about 5 dozen.
UNBAKED CHIPITS FRUIT CAKE
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup chopped almonds
1 cup chopped dates
1/2 cup whole candied cherries
4 cups miniature marshmallows
4 cups Graham wafter crumbs
1/2 tsp. salt
1-15 oz. can sweetend condensed milk
2-6 oz. pkgs. chocolate Chipits
Mix salt with crumbs in a large mixing bowl. Add Chipits, fruit, nuts and marshmallows. Add milk and mix thoroughly. Pack in a lightly greased mould and let stand in refrigerator until ready to use, at least overnight, Unmould and cut into slices as desired.
Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Moose Jaw Legion netted almost $80K in this year’s Poppy Campaign
Moose Javians were exceptionally charitable in supporting this year’s Legion Poppy Campaign, as Branch No. 59 collected nearly $80,000 — one of the highest totals in recent years.
This year’s campaign saw the Royal Canadian Legion sell wreaths to businesses, collect donations during the Moose Jaw Warriors’ Oct. 31 game, acquire funds on Poppy Day on Nov. 1 and collect money during the Remembrance Day ceremony at the Temple Gardens Centre on Nov. 11.
These activities generated $78,600 for Branch No. 59, which will use the money to support veterans and their families, help youth and cadet organizations and promote remembrance of those men and women who died to keep Canada free.
“We did a great job. I think the public was very generous in their donations,” said Sue Knox, the Legion’s poppy chair-
woman.
“And we didn’t have any (major) problems … at all, other than trying to get enough people at the right time to pick up trays, (which) was our only issue,” she continued. “But within a few minutes, we made it work, so it wasn’t that bad at all.”
The $78,600 was roughly the same amount collected as last year, although that number will likely increase once all the invoices are collected, the poppy chairwoman remarked. The Legion sold several wreaths just before Remembrance Day, so those outstanding bills must also be collected.
One reason this year’s total could have been so high is that people were in a giving mood or were in a good financial position, Knox said. This was particularly noticeable during the Remembrance Day ceremony, where attendees gave almost $10,000.
“That was surprising. But the crowd
(size) seemed to be pretty good, and I think we had a few more people there this year than last year,” she stated.
Knox pointed out that the Legion’s Poppy Campaign also competed with several other fundraising initiatives this year, such as a Humane Society activity, the Better Together Food Drive on Halloween and various Christmas events.
Meanwhile, Knox thanked all the volunteers who assisted with this year’s campaign, since without their participation, the fundraiser would not have happened and the Legion would not be able to assist veterans.
She singled out personnel from 15 Wing Airbase and the Saskatchewan Dragoons for their help, along with other active and retired military personnel and civilian volunteers.
Many more volunteers stepped forward this year to help, especially to sell the wreaths, after the Legion announced
it would not send notices to businesses in the mail because of the Canada Post strike, said Knox. Furthermore, several new Legion members helped, which was great since most usually stay away until they’re more comfortable.
Laughing, the poppy chairwoman said co-ordinating the campaign was an adventure, although every year is a “crazy” process. However, she follows an established plan, which makes things easier.
“A lot of the tough stuff is just getting names on a list so you can put them into placements,” Knox added. “And, until you’ve got that list of volunteers, your hands are kind of tied with who’s doing what, where and when.
“But they stepped up this year, so it wasn’t quite so bad.”
To donate to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 59, email royalcanadianlegion59@gmail.com.
Condo owners vehemently opposed to Hope Ministries’ new home
Hope Ministries is on the cusp of securing the former Central Lutheran Church as its new home, but at least one nearby property owner is opposed to the location.
Jackie Perryman, president of the Rutherford Condo Association at 65 Hochelaga Street West, said she is not against feeding people, but she is against the location at 23 Hochelaga Street West since it’s in “the wrong area,” while “all” area businesses are also “absolutely opposed.”
“My property is going to totally lose value,” she remarked, recalling a run-in she had with a drug user in her building’s foyer. “We have 12 seniors living in the condo next door to (the church) … fearful of this.”
Joanne Weisgerber, another condo tenant, wrote to Hope Ministries expressing similar concerns. She was particularly worried that the non-profit’s clients would enter the underground parking garage.
“It is felt this will be an extreme safety issue, as well, the property value of these condos will plummet,” she wrote.
Weisgerber also noted that business owners, customers, and residents have a right to feel safe while enjoying the area.
“They are the people who are contributing to this city in so many ways, (so) make them the focus, not the street people,” she added, “as the harsh reality is they contribute nothing.”
Perryman questioned why anyone would want this charity downtown when the city depends heavily on tourism, which is recognized nationally and internationally.
Meanwhile, she said the former church backs onto the Prairie Medical Clinic. She suggested that no doctor would want to work there, since Hope Ministries plans to fence in an area — adjacent to the clinic’s parking lot — for smokers.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
The former Central Lutheran Church at 23 Hochelaga Street West has been for sale since June 2024, but has been purchased by Hope Ministries. Photo by Jason G. Antonio
“I know I’m making assumptions, but there will be some drug deals in that back alley,” she remarked, adding that she has spoken with “the majority of business owners” and no one supports the site.
Another concern she had was that Hope Ministries’ proposed hours would be 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. She questioned where the clients would go in the evening, especially during the winter, and how they would reach Willow Lodge once it was relocated.
“I don’t think this question (has) been answered … ,” she remarked, noting that Hope Ministries’ refusal to provide security also frustrated her.
Perryman said she had “serious questions” about the $550,000 cost to purchase the building. She suggested that Hope Ministries would need almost $10,000 per month just for utilities, money that could be used for other services.
In comparison, she noted that Rutherford tenants pay roughly $5,000 a month for utilities.
Continuing, she said Hope Ministries will need to hire more people if it’s open 12 hours a day providing meals and snacks. Therefore, she figured the charity’s monthly budget would be $10,000, exclud-
ing property taxes — if it even pays such taxes.
Perryman questioned whether using donors’ money for utilities and administration instead of feeding people was appropriate.
“I think they have tunnel vision. They can’t see further than the end of their nose,” she said. “They have not looked at the big picture with this plan.”
Perryman said a better place for Hope Ministries would be the former CanaDay’s Apparel Limited warehouse near the Gibson Energy Refinery.
Meanwhile, Perryman said she attended Hope Ministries’ community meeting in midOctober and felt “intimidated and … bullied” by supporters, while she and other opponents were “labelled ‘bad’ Christians” for not trusting God about the proposed location.
She said she also attempted to attend a subsequent board meeting to discuss her concerns, but said the charity denied her request.
Rachel Mullens, Hope Ministries’ founder and executive director, said the organization takes Perryman’s concerns seriously. Furthermore, during the community engagement meeting, the non-profit collected everyone’s concerns, which the board is reviewing.
Meanwhile, Mullens said Hope Ministries is working to address security concerns by fencing in an area for clients, while it plans to install security cameras to protect the property and neighbourhood.
Also, the non-profit has joined a new group called Citizens on Patrol (COP), which is committed to patrolling downtown and providing security.
“So, those are the steps we’re taking to address (people’s) concerns,” Mullens said. “And, as time goes on, we’ll look at issues as they arise and address them as we can.”
Hope Ministries received the building keys on Nov. 28 and willstart serving meals by Dec. 2, she added. Residents are invited to visit the building to review the space.
NOTICE OF SUPPLEMENTARY ASSESSMENT
Pursuant to section 187 (1) of The Cities Act, notice is hereby given that the Supplementary Assessment Roll for the City of Moose Jaw for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection.
The roll may be viewed at: City of Moose Jaw - Finance Department Main Floor, 228 Main Street North Moose Jaw, SK.
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday
Dates: December 2, 2025 to December 31, 2025 (excluding statutory holidays)
The Supplementary assessment roll can also be viewed on our website at www.moosejaw.ca/assessment
Appeals
Any person with an interest in a property who wishes to appeal its assessment to the Board of Revision must submit a written notice of appeal to:
The Secretary of the Board of Revision Western Municipal Consulting c/o 228 Main Street North Moose Jaw, SK. S6H 3J8
Deadline: On or before December 31, 2025.
Dated this 26th day of November 2025.
Bill Fraser
Acting City Assessor
APPEAL FEE SCHEDULE
Assessment appeals to the Moose Jaw Board of Revision must be accompanied by the appropriate appeal fee*:
Residential Property (up to three units): $30/property
Condominium (Residential): $30/unit
Other - see fee schedule below:
*If there is an error on the notice for land description, a copy of the current Certi cate of Title must accompany the “Notice of Appeal” form. NO FEE IS REQUIRED.
*If there has been any change to school support, signature of all registered owners listed on the “Notice of Assessment” must appear on the “Notice of Appeal” form. NO FEE IS REQUIRED.
Please make cheques payable to City of Moose Jaw.
SurvivingInside...Winter
So far, winter has been what winter seems to be - cold! I guess that is what we expect but with that cold and cars not starting also comes less comfort for us even being inside. Winter is infinitely more liveable with a higher rate of humidity! Our homes are adversely affected by the dry air we are living with. Our furniture cracks, our hair stands on end and our houseplants are crying for just a little bit of humidity in the air that surrounds us.
This dryness in the winter is more prevalent in our climate. Warm air as we have in the summer will hold more water thus raising the relative humidity
‘Perfect
rate. Relative humidity is the amount of water that is held in the air relative to the maximum amount of moisture the air could be holding if saturated. Even in the summer, our air is kind of dry –but in the winter, it is even drier! Winter is dry but when it gets very cold, the relative humidity is less – which makes the cold weather even worse and when the temperature plummets to minus stupid the humidity is almost non-existent!
On the prairies, our homes are so much drier in winter as there is a very large temperature differential between the great outdoors and inside our homes. The very cold air contains very little moisture and when that air is warmed it feels extremely dry. The air will actually “grab” moisture from any available surface like our skin and our houseplants. The battle against desiccation is endless.
A couple of years ago, I made an investment that cost around $100. I purchased a middle of the road cold air humidifier that would hydrate our living space. The water reservoir is easy to fill and takes about 3 minutes of time each day to fill it up. What it has done for us is provide a much more hospitable
atmosphere in which to live. It is amazing that none of our clothing has static electricity while we are at home. Once we leave to go to school and work, the static takes no time to invade! The solution is not endless cans of static guard but simply to walk back into the house and miraculously, our clothes become less clingy! Our skin becomes almost dewy and our hair begins to naturally curl. Our houseplants are happier and exhibit many fewer problems with pests and diseases.
Sometimes an investment like a humidifier is delayed due to other techniques that we hope will hydrate our space. For example, misting plants is a task that is often enjoyed by many. However, misting has a beneficial effect for a minute or two. As the air is so dry, that little bit of moisture is quickly slurped up and really is a waste of time.... except for the fact that it makes us feel better!
If you would like to help your plants feel more hydrated, try grouping them together on trays that are filled with pebbles covered in water. This will raise the humidity directly around the plants and will make them much more comfortable.
Another effective way to help raise the humidity in your home without investing in a humidifier is to simply lower the temperature in the home. For every 1degree F of decreased temperature, the relative humidity increases by 4 per cent. So if you can reduce the temperature each night in your home and when you are away at work or at play, the humidity will increase to a level that will make both you and your plants smile!
Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at www.orchidhort.com; by email at growyourfuture@gmail.com on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort.
Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW… https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?
storm’ of expenses reason why police need more money, chief says
The Moose Jaw Police Service is facing the “perfect storm” of higher expenses in 2026, which is one reason why it’s asking for a 14.22-per-cent increase in its operating budget.
Chief Robert Davis and other senior leadership presented the police service’s (MJPS) budget request during city council’s third-party budget meeting on Nov. 26.
The ‘perfect storm’ Davis said he reviewed 10 years of economic data and determined that the agency has “hit a perfect storm” financially. The most significant — “And I mean significant,” he remarked — expense next year is unbudgeted legal costs.
The agency’s budget shows legal fees are expected to rise from $172,000 to $758,661 — a jump of $586,661 or 341.08 per cent. While the chief didn’t name the legal situation, the one known issue it’s facing is the Taylor Mickleborough dismissal lawsuit.
Furthermore, Davis said salaries are rising due to negotiated contracts, but the agency requires them to remain competitive while retaining and recruit-
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
ing officers. Inflation is also increasing expenses, from vehicles to fuel to ammunition — up 150 per cent — to uniforms.
Davis noted that it costs roughly $40,000 to fully train and equip one officer.
The police chief suggested that past budgets were “chronically underfunded,” which led to the agency using money from the accumulated surplus and capital projects account to cover deficits.
A chart showed that the agency had surpluses in 2016, 2017, 2022 and 2024, while it had deficits in 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2023.
Meanwhile, Davis said in Saskatchewan, five police services dedicate an average of 82.88 per cent of their budgets to salaries and benefits annually, leaving money for other operational expenses.
In comparison, from 2014 to 2024, Moose Jaw’s average was 93.68 per cent; the lowest year was in 2022 at 89.68 per cent, while the highest year was in 2019 at 101.66 per cent.
The MJPS has “very little wiggle room” financially to address unpredictable events, such as higher fuel expenses, pandemics or “whodunit” murders,
he said.
“… so, I applaud the Moose Jaw Police Service for running on a lean budget (over the years),” the chief remarked.
A chart in Davis’ presentation showed that, in 2014, the police service’s net budget — the amount the city provides — was nearly $8 million, while in 2025, that number was $12,830,258.
2026 initiatives
The agency purchased three biometric scanners this year to monitor jail cells, while it wants to purchase more devices next year, said Davis. These devices monitor prisoners’ health, potentially prevent deaths and allow personnel to respond faster to situations.
Furthermore, the organization wants to acquire a full software program called Versaterm, which will allow officers to complete reports in their vehicles and access policies from their laptops, he continued. The program also allows the agency to integrate better with its justice partners and increase efficiency.
“The No. 1 thing I have heard from our officers is they feel like they’re working in the Stone Age because we are so far behind in our technology,” Davis
remarked.
A third project is acquiring accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), Davis said. This is another “game-changer” since a third party will evaluate the organization’s policies and procedures, while Moose Jaw can access other agencies’ policies as well.
“The ultimate end goal is protecting our officers (and) giving them policies, procedures and best practices that allow them to do the job in a safe manner … ,” he continued.
Other priorities include continuing to collaborate with residents and businesses to enhance safety, continuing to crack down on drugs and illegal guns, supporting the Little Oak Children’s Justice Centre and recruiting, training and retaining new officers, the chief said. Davis added that retaining members is important because “it’s extremely competitive out there,” as officers are changing uniforms everywhere every day across Canada. Yet, Moose Jaw has three homegrown recruits in college who will be sworn in in December.
By Patricia Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
Oh Clark’s and
CITY HALL
COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
City hall is planning to make significant changes to city council’s meetings to better align them with “best practices,” including moving the meetings from Mondays to Tuesdays.
However, delegations will still have 10 minutes to speak, despite suggestions from city administration to limit presentations to five minutes.
The proposed changes to Bylaw No. 5746, The Procedures and Committees Bylaw, align council operations with contemporary governance standards and community expectations, a recent executive committee report said.
“This update reflects best practices in municipal governance and aligns The Cities Act, ensuring that council’s operations remain transparent, efficient and accessible to the public … and that it supports efficient decision-making,” the document noted.
Council and administration collaborated to update the bylaw, while they relied on the work of Michael Mouritsen, a registered parliamentarian with more than 50 years of experience in procedure and governance, the report said.
“Proposed Bylaw No. 5746 is a complete update. It doesn’t just tweak old rules, it modernizes how council operates to reflect today’s expectations for open, efficient and accessible government,” the document added.
Council will consider adopting the updated bylaw during an upcoming regular meeting.
Highlights of changes
The report highlighted seven main differences between the current bylaw,
‘Complete update’ of bylaw moves
council meetings to Tuesdays
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
5176, and the proposed bylaw.
Comprehensive modernization
The current bylaw focuses on basic meeting procedures and the order of business, while amendments over the last 20 years have been minimal and related to start times, the report said.
Conversely, the proposed bylaw “represents a full modernization,” aligning the meetings with The Cities Act, municipal best practices and principles of “transparency and accountability.”
Governance framework
The current bylaw limits clarity on roles and responsibilities for council, committees and administration, while the proposed bylaw defines roles — mayor, deputy mayor, acting mayor, committees — and introduces structured terms of reference for advisory committees and boards, the report said.
Digital and public accessibility
The current bylaw does not fully address electronic communications or modern engagement methods, while the proposed bylaw formally recognizes electronic communications, which improves residents’ accessibility, the document continued.
Transparency and accountability
The current bylaw offers “basic provisions” for public meetings, while the proposed bylaw “reinforces transparency” through structured reporting, recordkeeping and compliance with privacy legislation, said the report.
Parliamentary authority
The current bylaw relies on Bourinot’s Rules of Order, a Canadian parliamentary guide that is less detailed, less
widely used, and last updated in 1995, the document said. Due to internal inconsistencies and other issues, many organizations have abandoned it in favour of Robert’s Rules of Order (RROO).
Meanwhile, the proposed bylaw adopts RROO, the most widely used standard in North America, the document continued. It is updated every decade, with the last revision in 2020.
Public hearings
The current bylaw allows residents to present their views, but the procedures lack detailed guidance on dialogue between council and the presenter and how to manage feedback, the report said. This created challenges and made the process less accessible.
The proposed bylaw makes “public hearings clearer, fairer and more accessible,” while the updated procedures define legislative requirements, speaking order and open dialogue with council, the document continued. This creates “an organized environment for meaningful dialogue.”
Furthermore, formalizing how input is recorded and considered “reinforces accountability and shows that community voices matter,” the report added. “These changes reflect modern standards and the city’s commitment to open, transparent governance.”
However, what the council report failed to mention — but is in the more detailed bylaw document — is that the proposed bylaw sought to limit presentations during public hearings and presentations to five minutes.
Council approved an amendment to
keep the time at 10 minutes.
Meeting changes
Currently, council meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month, although they sometimes shift to Tuesdays when Monday is a holiday, the report said.
The document noted that some reasons for moving the meetings to Tuesday include:
• Avoiding conflicts on Mondays, which reduces public attendance; Tuesdays ensure “greater consistency and predictability”
• Better opportunity for residents to participate since they have an extra day to prepare, review agendas and attend meetings
• Posting agendas on Fridays gives residents and council members more time to review materials, “leading to more informed discussions”
• The city can share media and community updates mid-week, which should improve timeliness and engagement
• Tuesdays provide a “more stable schedule” throughout the year, which means consultants don’t have to reschedule if Monday is a holiday
• Residents, stakeholders and council members can plan their calendars “with confidence,” knowing that holidays will rarely affect the meetings
The report added that the updated bylaw could come into effect on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT BUDGET MEETING IS TUESDAY, DEC 2
The Moose Jaw Police Service (MJPS) is asking city council for a funding increase of almost $2 million in 2026, which is more than 14 per cent higher than this year’s request.
This year, the agency’s budgeted operating expenses were $15,711,465, budgeted revenues were $2,881,207 and net operating request was $12,830,258.
However, according to a 2026 budget report, the organization’s budgeted operating expenses next year are projected to be $17,720,091, its budgeted revenues are $3,065,131 and its net operating request — which the city provides — is $14,654,960.
Therefore, the police service’s expenses are expected to increase by $2,008,626, or 12.78 per cent; its rev-
MJPS asks council for operating budget increase of over 14% in 2026
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
enues are expected to increase by $183,924, or 6.38 per cent, and its net operating request is expected to increase by $1,824,702, or 14.22 per cent.
The report noted that of the 12.78-per-cent increase, 8.88 per cent is for salaries and benefits and 3.9 per cent is for other operational expenses.
The organization’s proposed 2026 budget listed its expected revenues and expenses. Of note:
• Overall salaries are expected to increase by $1,090,142, or 10.83 per cent year-over-year (YOY)
• Victim Services salaries are expected to increase by $81,276 or 97.93 per cent YOY
• Workers’ compensation contributions are likely to rise by $41,965 or
37.05 per cent YOY
• Victim Services employee benefits are expected to increase by $18,983 or 271.19 per cent
• Legal fees are expected to rise by $586,661 or 341.08 per cent; this is related to the Taylor Mickleborough dismissal hearing
• Travel and board expenses are projected to decrease by $50,000 or 88.5 per cent
• Prisoner cost recovery revenues are expected to increase by $60,000 or 60 per cent
Furthermore, the agency wants $245,000 in capital funding next year, which includes $50,000 to replace the building’s elevator, $95,000 for phase 2 renovations to work areas, $10,000 for
a sidewalk replacement and $90,000 for “unanticipated infrastructure demands,” the report said.
Those infrastructure demands include future repair costs to the police service building, which was constructed in 1985 and is nearing its end.
Also, the MJPS wants council to authorize the use of $330,000 from the traffic safety reserve next year.
The report added that the agency’s overall funding request increases the municipal mill rate by 3.98 per cent.
The police service presented its 2026 budget request during council’s third-party budget meeting on Nov. 26. The agency’s comments will be featured in a separate article.
Tax arrears rose by 22% year-over-year in Q3, report shows
Taxpayers owed more than $3.6 million in total tax arrears at the end of the third quarter, which was 22-per-cent more than Q3 2024, although 120-per-cent more people participated in payment plans.
City administration presented the third-quarter financial report during the Nov. 24 regular city council meeting, which included data about tax arrears, outstanding debt and how much each property class owed.
Council voted unanimously to receive and file the report.
Property tax arrears
As of Sept. 30, taxpayers owed $3,660,005 in total arrears, which included $31,828 in property tax liens and $3,628,177 in arrears payment plans, the report said.
Conversely, by Sept. 30, 2024, those numbers were, respectively, $3,000,721, $2,970,814 and $29,907.
Therefore, the total outstanding amount of tax arrears increased by $659,284 — a jump of roughly 21.9 per cent — from Q3 2024 to Q3 2025. This comprised a year-over-year decrease in liens of $2,938,986 and an increase in payment plans of $3,598,270.
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Meanwhile, by Sept. 30, 2023, taxpayers owed $2,105,876 in total arrears, including $2,068,455 in property tax liens and $37,421 in payment plans.
Property taxes receivable
Property taxes receivable consists of tax arrears and taxes owing. Tax arrears are overdue taxes, while current taxes are due but have not fallen into arrears, city hall says. Taxes fall into arrears in the next year following the levy of taxes.
The total outstanding property taxes receivable by Sept. 30 was $14,040,701, which comprised $10,380,696 in current taxes and $3,660,005 in outstanding arrears, said the report.
In comparison, total property taxes receivable that were outstanding by the end of Q3 2024 were $12,664,037, followed by $10,191,651 in 2023, $9,714,292 in 2022, $9,585,332 in 2021 and $9,267,856 in 2020.
Arrears by property class
At the end of 2024, the four main property classes owed $1,716,315.43 in outstanding arrears, followed by $938,139.04 in 2023 and $973,722.91 in 2022, the report said. This means those classes owed $3,628,177.38 during the last three years, while payment
plans of $31,827.73 increased the total to $3,660,005.11.
The taxes missed in 2024, 2023 and 2022 and the totals were:
Compared to commercial/industrial, residential comprised roughly 39 per cent of outstanding arrears by property class in Q3 2025, the report said.
Tenders
City hall issued 10 tenders worth $2,475,409.17 during the third quarter, the report said.
These tenders included banking services, a new hook lift truck, the unidirectional flushing program, the ice plant service contract, new hook lift bins, a half-ton truck, sanding aggregate, city complex office renovations, two onetruck trucks and the recycling contract with Loraas Disposal.
Meanwhile, the city chose MNP
LLP to provide audit services for 2025 to 2029, as the company’s proposal was $345,096, compared to Baker Tilly’s $608,918.75, the report added.
Borrowing/debt
As of Sept. 30, city hall was still repaying six projects after borrowing money to finance them.
The principal outstanding amount on each project was:
• Multiplex long-term loan: $9,686,000
• Waterworks capital long-term loan: $18,145,000
• High-service pumphouse: $6,415,000
• Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Corporation (BPWTC) loan term loan (Bank of Montreal): $9,081,540
• Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Corporation loan term loan (TD Bank): $13,358,175.48
• Buffalo Pound Water Treatment Corporation loan term loan (Royal Bank of Canada): $13,946,029.31
These projects totalled $70,631,744.79, a decrease of $1,156,287.47 from the end of the second quarter. Meanwhile, the City of Moose Jaw’s debt limit is $95 million.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
The Board of Police Commissioners is about to see significant changes, including, among other things, an improved alignment with The Police Act and clarification of the roles of city council and the board.
During its Nov. 24 regular meeting, council gave three unanimous readings to an updated and modernized The Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Bylaw. Since council had no objections to the updates, the amended bylaw goes into effect immediately.
The renewed bylaw was in response to a motion from the Nov. 10 meeting that sought to expand voting membership, prioritize Aboriginal representation, restrict eligibility to avoid conflicts of interest, adjust the term lengths and revise the budget submission deadline.
Specifically, the changes include:
• Making the minimum number of voting members be five and no more than seven, which expands the number of members-at-large
Updates to police board bylaw boost diversity, oversight
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from two to four; in no case can three members-at-large be appointed to avoid tie votes
• Giving preference to qualified First Nation applicants as one memberat-large
• Prohibiting residents from serving if they are city employees, thirdparty contractors, consultants or service providers
• Aside from the mayor, appointing voting members annually for twoyear terms rather than one year, with a maximum of two consecutive two-year terms
• Changing the deadline by which the board must provide council with its budget estimates to Oct. 15 from Oct. 1
“These changes aim to enhance governance, diversity and transparency while ensuring operational stability,” a council report said.
A “diverse and well-structured board” supports open decision-making, minimizes conflicts of interest and en-
sures effective oversight of municipal operations, a previous report said.
Furthermore, council must “exercise prudent oversight” while recognizing its responsibility for maintaining law and order and providing effective policing services.
“Periodic assessment of board membership ensures (that) appointments reflect community values and best practices, strengthening the city’s ability to meet evolving needs and expectations,” the report noted.
The document added that adopting Bylaw No. 5745, the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Bylaw Amendment, must happen before Monday, Dec. 15, to ensure “a smooth transition and continuity of board meetings and governance.”
This is the second time in five years that city council has updated the Moose Jaw Board of Police Commissioners Bylaw, after it made changes in 2020.
The renewed bylaw was in response to a motion that sought to en-
sure:
• The chief of police would be the chief administrative officer of the police service and would be directly responsible only to the board for the discharge of powers, duties and authority conferred upon them
• The city would continue to provide services to the board, upon such terms and conditions as the board and council agreed
The other change to the bylaw that council made in 2020 included having two residents be board members.
Saskatchewan’s municipal police services are governed by The Police Act, 1990, while a board of police commissioners is compulsory where a municipality has more than 5,000 people or has established its own police service, a council report said.
Council adopted the current municipal bylaw to establish a board of police commissioners in 1991, with the bylaw going into effect that November.
More memberships prove library still relevant, councillor says Jason
Nearly 400 people per month signed up for a library card in Moose Jaw this year, which one city councillor says shows how relevant the organization continues to be.
Gwen Fisher, head librarian with the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL), presented the organization’s 2026 budget request during city council’s third-party presentation meeting on Nov. 26.
The library is asking for $1,360,139 in 2026, which is $32,281 — or 2.4 per cent — more than this year. According to the library’s report, this extra funding will address increases in the Palliser Regional Library (PRL) levy, including wages and acquisitions; higher internet fees and telephone fees; equipment reserve contributions; and board-directed revenue changes.
Fisher discussed some of the library’s circulation statistics, pointing out that digital circulation continues an up-
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ward trajectory. Those checkouts were 16 per cent higher than last year and 175 per cent more than 2019.
Furthermore, overall circulation — physical and digital materials — jumped 3.5 per cent year-over-year (YOY) and rose 30 per cent over 2019, she said. While most growth was due to digital checkouts, juvenile circulation also grew this year, at one per cent YOY and 18 per cent over 2019.
Continuing, Fisher said the MJPL tracks new patrons who sign up for library cards, and from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, 2024, an average of 379 new patrons joined per month. During the same period this year, that number averaged 396, or a 4.4 per cent YOY increase.
She noted that the organization would provide more complete statistics when it presented its annual report in the spring.
“The library contributes to the cul-
tural vibrancy and well-being of our community by serving as a knowledge hub, community gathering place, and lifelong learning centre,” Fisher added. “And we’re excited to continue that work in 2026.”
Fisher acknowledged challenges regarding the current conditions in Crescent Park, pointing out that they occur throughout the downtown. However, the library’s goal is to welcome everyone, as long as people follow the code of conduct, which has existed since 2018.
“So, the dignity of all people is unquestionable, but if the rules of conduct are breached, then of course they can’t use our facility … ,” she said.
Fisher noted that while this issue is a “difficult grey zone,” the library enjoys working with the police and receiving de-escalation training. Further, staff attempt to reassure residents that they will be safe if something occurs, while they
also report all incidents to reduce future occurrences.
The organization plans to refresh the library space and is working with 1080 Architecture to develop designs for the future, said Fisher. As part of that refresh, safety will continue to be the top priority — inside and outside the building.
Moreover, as the MJPL develops new methods of assessment, it will review its incident reports and consider how it can use those tools better to report its safety-related activities, she added. Library staff empathize with residents who feel uncomfortable visiting the building and encourage them to reach out.
During her presentation, Fisher also reviewed all the outreach activities the library pursued this year, the number of people who attended programs and its summer activities. Of note, Moose Javians read 405,559 minutes during the Summer Reading Program.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE
NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
Two homeowners are concerned about the installation of smart water meters on their property, as they say the technology infringes on their privacy and makes them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
Glenda Tkalac and Lydia Wipf spoke about the meters during city council’s recent regular meeting. They asked that the city adopt an opt-out option for residents “who have legitimate privacy, safety and health concerns” with the digital transmitters.
“People complied to avoid losing their water service. The meters were effectively mandated, with water shutoff used as a coercive measure,” said Tkalac, noting that privacy was the “foremost concern” for many residents.
Contractor Neptune Technology Group Co. says in its own literature that the technological systems have become more complex and feature-packed, which makes them an enticing target for hackers, she continued.
The contractor also admits that its systems are targets, while recent Neptune-related data breaches in Hamilton and Nova Scotia show that municipalities cannot guarantee residents’ safety, she remarked.
Cybersecurity experts say most breaches happen when employees snoop
Homeowners want opt-out option from smart water meters over privacy concerns
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through data, something no software patch can eliminate, Tkalac said. Therefore, she questioned how city hall could keep residents’ data safe.
Meanwhile, she pointed out that the meters collect and transmit water use data hourly, with that information stored on remote servers. That infringement could lead to judicial reviews.
“That data, by its nature, reveals when residents are home, away, or even showering, details that fall squarely within our private domestic lives,” said Tkalac. “This isn’t simply about building convenience; it’s about continuous surveillance inside our homes.”
Continuing, she said residents’ data is personal and is protected under the Canadian Bill of Rights. Moreover, this data is vulnerable to unauthorized access, interception and misuse by third parties, while the data could be sold and erode household privacy.
Many smart meters allow utility companies to remotely throttle or disconnect services, while the potential exists for “erroneous shut-offs, system glitches and malicious attacks” that trigger mass shut-offs, Tkalac remarked.
Meanwhile, companies can use the information to build profiles of consumers’ lifestyles for targeted advertising,
she pointed out. For example, companies could determine who are night-shift workers and tailor ads to those people.
Also, thieves can use the data to know when people are away, or a home is vacant, and “domineering” family members can monitor the behaviour of others in the home.
“We should not be forced to trade privacy for an essential utility service. Privacy is not anti-technology,” said Tkalac. “It’s about ensuring technology serves people, not monitors them.”
Another issue is “mission creep,” since, over time, the municipality could add new analytical features, remote shut-off options, and increase integration with other smart systems, which makes it more difficult for residents to opt out, she continued. Smart systems also usually expand from leak detection into “full-spectrum monitoring.”
Another problem with smart meters is billing accuracy, as there are many reports of incorrect readings, making it difficult for consumers to challenge the digital data, Tkalac remarked. Errors lead to high bills, service shut-off threats and long dispute processes at homeowners’ expenses.
“All residents should have informed consent, and consent must be voluntary,
meaningful and informed,” she said. “The smart meter rollout violated all three and people were told that installation was mandatory, even when the law does not require it.
“Informed consent is a foundation of consumer rights and ethical governance … ,” she added. “These devices may benefit utilities, but it’s citizens (who) bear the privacy and risk costs.”
A “fair,” “respectful” and “democratic solution” would be for homeowners who value privacy, safety and health over automation to keep their mechanical meters, Tkalac said.
Moreover, homeowners could submit photographic meter readings by email or call in the number, while the city could charge them a “reasonable” yearly cost of $60, she continued.
“A choice that is unaffordable is not a meaningful choice … ,” the homeowner added. “Privacy-based opt-outs exist in many areas of policy, from data collection to consumer technology.”
Wipf echoed Tkalac’s concerns, while she noted that she has health conditions and is “very concerned” that the smart meters would make those conditions worse.
Council later voted against creating an opt-out clause for homeowners.
Future presentations to council will require more detailed info beforehand
Residents who want to speak to city council in the future will have to submit detailed information about their proposed topic, compared to the two-sentence emails city hall currently allows.
Coun. Chris Warren inquired about future presentations while discussing proposed changes to the Procedures and Committees Bylaw...noting that brevity in presenting information submitted in emails requesting to do a presentation during a council meeting doesn’t give council much insight into the live presenter’s content.
“I think sometimes I would prefer to see what the delegation wants to talk about so I can prepare in advance … if I … have further questions or want to ex-
plore concepts further,” he said.
Tracy Wittke, city clerk, said the proposed bylaw reflects the current bylaw’s practice. However, in the future, the city plans to ask presenters to provide more information.
Specifically, city hall has developed an online form that speakers must complete and where they must provide more details, including their name, contact information, the topic they want to address and what they want council to do.
Presentation times
One change in the new bylaw suggested limiting presenters’ speaking times to five minutes from 10 minutes.
Coun. Heather Eby asked for clarification.
Wittke said all the proposed amendments are based on “best practices” in other Canadian municipalities, while Moose Jaw is one of the few jurisdictions that still allows 10-minute presentations. Yet, administration was “more than willing” to keep the time as is before council adopted the updated bylaw.
Mayor James Murdock said he favoured keeping the time as is, while residents should be allowed 10 minutes to speak, since many are passionate about their topic and need that time to express their opinion.
Council then approved an amendment to keep the presentation time to 10 minutes.
Tuesday meetings
Several councillors spoke about the proposed change to move the meetings to Tuesdays from Mondays.
Coun. Heather Eby thought the change would be fine; Mayor James Murdock said he looked forward to the change, since having an extra day to prepare after the weekend would make “a big difference” for him and administration and Coun. Dawn Luhning said moving the meetings to Tuesday caused her to feel “angst” and “grief,” but considered it might be beneficial since she would have more time over the weekend to read the reports and ask administration follow-up questions.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
Residents opposed to city hall installing smart water meters in their homes will have to accept the new technology, after city council rejected the idea of opting out of the devices.
During city council’s Nov. 24 regular meeting, Coun. Chris Warren introduced a motion that directed city administration to amend the sewer and water utility bylaw to allow provisions for an opt-out option from the smart water meter program.
Contractor Neptune Technology Group Canada Co. has installed the meters in 99 per cent of homes, leaving one per cent with the analogue devices.
According to a previous council report, as of Oct. 28, the city had disconnected water and sewer services from nine properties, while six other properties were pending disconnection.
Warren said he respected the work that administration had done to implement the program, which brought many benefits to Moose Jaw, such as accurate water usage data, leak detection, improved billing, reduced costs and enhanced customer access to their information.
Yet, he was concerned about the city disconnecting water services, pointing out that he initially thought the city would impose financial penalties on homeowners to encourage their compliance. However, he learned that city hall was disconnecting services and only imposing monetary penalties after the disconnections occurred.
“I believe an opt-out program matters because I do not believe residents should have to choose between water services and their convictions about what goes into their own home,” Warren said.
Through research, the councillor learned that Edmonton and Kelowna have implemented opt-out programs with fees to cover costs to manually read the meters. Specifically, the former charges $25 per month, while the latter charges $44.95 per bi-monthly period.
Furthermore, Winnipeg recently started a smart water program, with its council approving an opt-out option for medical reasons, he added.
Council rejects
The councillor pointed out that city administration said in a previous council report that an opt-out option is possible, which would include a fee to manually read the meters. Moreover, even Neptune said in a research paper that more cities have adopted opt-out initiatives.
solution to smart water meters
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“These examples show that opt-out programs … (are) a practical and fair solution,” he said, noting that his motion also forces the reluctant homeowners to pay the costs to manually read the meters, so others don’t have to.
“I believe this strikes a balance between maintaining an efficient program and respecting residents’ choices about what to put in their home,” the councillor continued.
Warren added that he is representing the citizens of Moose Jaw with this motion and attempting to address their concerns by offering “a fair and transparent alternative.”
Coun. Jamey Logan agreed with Warren’s motion, while he asked administration whether it was doing anything to implement an opt-out program. He also asked whether residents who have already had the devices installed could have them changed to a wired reader installed outside the home.
City manager Maryse Carmichael said city hall is “working on a possible option” for property owners, where the municipality would install the smart water meter transmit ters outside the home. The device — which would be wired — could be installed on a fence or as far away from the home as the homeowners want.
“One main issue we have with our previous water meters … is that they are nearing (their) end of life,” she added. “So we would have to find a different type of meter that would be different from the 12,000 we have already installed.”
Council then voted 3-2 against the motion, with Mayor James Murdock and councillors Heather Eby and Dawn Luhning opposed and Warren and Logan in favour.
Councillors Carla Delaurier and Patrick Boyle were absent.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
The Moose Jaw and District Chamber of Commerce says it shares city council’s vision to strengthen the community’s tourism economy through a unified and collaborative approach, but has concerns about the proposed process.
Rob Clark, the chamber’s CEO, spoke to city council during its Nov. 24 regular meeting about a proposed motion that would have imposed a levy equal to 1.5 per cent of the taxable assessment of properties on hotels, motels, inns and bed-and-breakfasts with at least 10 rentable rooms.
In effect, the city aimed to create a destination marketing fund (DMF) fee by modelling Prince Albert’s approach.
Clark, speaking for the Quality Inn Hotel and other businesses, said the way city hall pursued this process created concern among hoteliers. One reason is that the proposed levy would have imposed higher fees on accommodation providers compared to Prince Albert.
Prince Albert imposes a tiered assessment-based fee with a maximum of $51,000 per property annually, while Moose Jaw’s proposed system would
Chamber of Commerce shares hotels’ concerns about tourism levy
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
force some hotels to pay over $100,000 annually, he pointed out.
“This is not conducive to … expanding and enticing investment … ,” Clark remarked.
Meanwhile, the community’s hoteliers felt that city administration did not engage with them meaningfully, Clark said.
The city sent those businesses a letter on Oct. 31 asking to meet on Nov. 7, but not every owner saw the letter in time, he noted. Furthermore, after the Nov. 10 council meeting, many hotel owners who attempted to meet with council and administration said they were “met with closed doors.”
Besides financial questions, this levy also raised questions about fairness since hotels wondered why they should fund tourism events, downtown promotions and business improvement district activities without a say in how their revenues are spent, said Clark.
There are “unconfirmed reports” that there would be only two spots for hoteliers on the new 10-person tourism board, which the hoteliers felt was also
“extremely unfair,” he continued.
Legally, accommodation providers cannot charge a DMF fee on stays over 30 days, while corporations like SaskEnergy and SaskPower refuse to pay it, said Clark. Since customers can also refuse to pay, the hotels wouldn’t see any benefit.
He pointed out that a DMF levy was recoverable, while a levy based on property assessments remained fixed during economic downturns, which financially strained businesses.
Meanwhile, the hotels are willing to form an association to implement the voluntary DMF fee and ensure the money is used appropriately, Clark said.
“This initiative demonstrates industry commitments to supporting Moose Jaw’s visitor economy and fostering collaboration,” he stated.
Hotels and motels contribute economically since they employ hundreds of workers who, along with their families, spend their wages here, the Chamber CEO continued. These venues — together, and with other businesses — also actively attract events and conferences
without the need for public funding.
The hoteliers believe there is a lack of transparency and stakeholder engagement on city hall’s part, while they want more consultations and understanding of how they will be affected, Clark remarked.
Furthermore, the businesses had concerns that there was no clear governance structure or accountability framework for how the city would allocate the money, while they didn’t understand what the tangible goals were and were worried about damaging the tourism industry’s trust and competitiveness, he said.
Clark urged council to table the motion and engage with the affected stakeholders, as well as clarify objectives and governance issues, announce how the money would be spent, and determine metrics of success and accountability measures.
He added that the city should also align its practices with models in Saskatoon, Regina or Prince Albert.
Later in the meeting, council voted against imposing the levy.
City received almost $320K in Q3 for pedestrian safety, paratransit costs
City hall applied for four grant applications worth over $11 million during the third quarter, while it received almost $320,000 from two applications for pedestrian safety and paratransit services.
City administration presented a report during city council’s Nov. 24 regular meeting that highlighted the grants the city applied for from July 1 to Sept. 30, along with the money it received.
The city received $317,783 in provincial funding during Q3, the report said.
This included $100,000 from SGI’s traffic safety fund to improve pedestrian safety through new crosswalk signals, signs and accessibility upgrades, and $217,783 from the Transit Assistance
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
for People with Disabilities program to cover paratransit operating costs based on last year’s ridership.
Meanwhile, city hall submitted four applications during the quarter, including:
• $60,175 to support phase 2 of a soil remediation project at a city-owned property on Athabasca Street East
• $5,771,250 to pave 32nd Avenue Southwest to support safer truck traffic flow
• $5,232,500 to rehabilitate Highway 363 (Ninth Avenue Southwest) and continue provincial upgrades
• $100,000 to SGI’s traffic safety fund to install durable thermoplastic crosswalk markings in school zones
“Funding decisions for the four grant applications are still pending,” the report added.
Administration said the municipality receives that grant money annually, although, since it’s based on the previous year’s transit ridership, city hall doesn’t know exactly how much it will receive and uses a temporary placeholder number in the budget.
Mayor James Murdock inquired about the money to rehabilitate Ninth Avenue Southwest and whether that was in addition to the funds the province has already contributed to fix that road. He also asked whether city hall had submitted a plan to the province to rebuild 32nd Avenue Southwest.
Bevan Harlton, director of operations, said the scope of the Highway 363 upgrades focuses on fixing slumping adjacent to the road going south and then west. What he thought would be great was if the money could help the city complete paving up to that intersection in 2026.
Meanwhile, with 32nd Avenue Southwest, Harlton said the city is working with the Rural Municipality of Moose Jaw to completely pave that road. He noted that the RM has applied to the province to have it connect the road to Highway 1.
Harlton added that he didn’t have a timeline for when that project might happen.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
Businessman Gary Gill purchased Moose Jaw’s Best Western Plus Hotel two months ago and recently discovered that he may have to pay a “very, very extremely unfair” tourism levy.
Gill was one of several hoteliers who spoke during city council’s Nov. 24 regular meeting about the proposed property tax-connected destination marketing fund (DMF) fee, which would fall on accommodation providers.
Gill said he and the hoteliers’ association wanted the city to create a DMF fee — it would apply only to occupied rooms — since that approach enabled them to give back to the community and promote events.
However, the businessman said he was opposed to the city applying the levy to providers’ property taxes, since, based on his research, he wasn’t sure how this approach was even possible. Aside from Prince Albert, no other Canadian municipality applied such a levy to property taxes.
Gill said he spoke with several hotel association CEOs, who said there are three ways to approach this issue.
Those approaches include doing
Proposed tourism levy ‘extremely unfair’ to hotels, businessman says
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nothing; imposing a DMF fee; and creating a municipal accommodation tax, similar to a DMF fee, except the city puts the money into a general revenue fund and disburses it.
While Moose Jaw and Prince Albert apply a DMF fee to property taxes, the latter does it fairly because it spends the money on events, said Gill. While Moose Jaw’s proposed levy of 1.5 per cent would generate roughly $1 million annually, Prince Albert’s levy brings in roughly $400,000 annually.
“We are (a) smaller (city) and we are not doing nearly as well,” he stated, pointing out that hotels like his have an average occupancy of 60 per cent in the summer — not fantastic, but not terrible — and roughly 30 per cent in the winter.
Many hotels in Moose Jaw are struggling with high property assessments, the businessman added, while he knows a few are doing well since their assessments are lower than his.
Best Western does not let its franchisees charge a DMF fee unless it’s remitted for tourism or events, Gill said. However, this fee is a property tax levy, which means there will be “winners and
losers” based on property assessments.
Gill said council gives tax abatements to his competitors, including the proposed Hilton-branded Brunswick Hotel on River Street. He didn’t understand why they received such treatment, while he must pay the 1.5-per-cent levy that put Best Western Hotel Plus “at an extreme disadvantage, which is not fair.”
Moreover, the levy “vilified and disincentivized” existing hotels, which seemed backward. He added that he’s from Saskatoon, which doesn’t give any tax abatements, but was still probusiness.
Meanwhile, all hotel owners in Moose Jaw would be pleased to impose a DMF fee to promote tourism and events, since more tourism means “more beds and heads,” he continued.
However, not everyone who sleeps at a hotel is a tourist, with Gill pointing out that 40 per cent of his customers are simply passing through Moose Jaw. He worried that if the fees increase, those people may stay elsewhere.
“We don’t want to do that. It’s not good for our businesses (and) and it’s
not good for the other businesses that benefit, such as … restaurants,” he stated.
Gill said the levy disincentivizes business owners from investing in their properties, since more renovations mean higher property assessments. Yet, if owners are going to promote tourism, they should also promote that their buildings are in good shape and adequately staffed.
A levy on property taxes also means hotels may charge their customers different prices, which wouldn’t look good, he continued. His hotel has 87 rooms, while nearby competitors have 88 rooms, although they have “significantly lower taxable assessments.” This means they would likely pay fewer taxes and collect more revenue.
“We want to be pro-business,” Gill added. “I’d rather see a new hotel built in Moose Jaw and bring in hundreds of thousands in taxable revenue and dozens of jobs instead of disincentivizing us.”
Later in the meeting, council voted against imposing the levy.
Temple Gardens Centre had deficit of nearly $790K in Q3, report shows Jason G. Antonio
The Temple Gardens Centre experienced a third-quarter deficit of nearly $790,000 — almost $30,000 higher than expected — that was due to issues such as higher event expenses and higher repair and maintenance expenses.
From Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, the former Events Centre had actual revenues of $6,462,078 and actual expenses of $7,139,134, for an operating deficit of $677,056, a Nov. 24 city council report said.
However, after including the management fee expense of $115,092 and the City of Moose Jaw’s building rentals revenue of $6,900, the net operating loss was $785,248.
In comparison, building manager Oak View Group (OVG) had budgeted
$6,482,369 in revenues and $7,136,417 in expenses for the quarter, leaving an expected operating loss of $654,048, the report said. Including the management fee expense of $117,542 would have led to an overall operating loss of $771,590.
Therefore, the differences between the actual and budgeted revenues, expenses and net income were -$20,291, -$2,717 and -$27,458. Thus, the deficit was higher than projected.
Of note, there was $469,502 less in event revenue, $371,166 more in food and beverage revenue, $23,124 less in advertising and sponsorship, $101,065 more in naming and pouring rights, $16,914 less in ice rentals, $76,579 more in regional ticketing and $38,185
less in “other” revenue, the report said.
Meanwhile, there was $72,914 more in event expenses, $123,948 less in salaries, wages and benefits expenses, $20,178 more in insurance costs, $16,615 more in supplies, $44,164 more in repairs and maintenance, $48,523 less in utilities expenses, $27,771 more in contracted services expenses and $24,820 more in advertising and marketing.
The Q3 numbers were based on 114 events over 134 event days that attracted 138,939 people, the report said. In comparison, OVG had budgeted 115 events over 124 days that were expected to attract 133,323 people.
City administration presented the third-quarter financial report during the
Nov. 24 regular city council meeting. Financial information about the Temple Gardens Centre/Multiplex was included in the document.
Council later unanimously voted to receive and file the report.
Food and beverage sales
From Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, OVG generated $1,452,032 in total catering and concession sales, while the total cost of goods was $500,871, leaving gross profits of $951,161, the report said.
After removing total payroll and departmental expenses, the net profit was $408,430.
These numbers were based on 114 events over 134 days that attracted 138,939 people.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE
NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
Former city councillor Brian Swanson gave a passionate presentation using statistics and hard numbers to show how city council’s proposed tourism levy would harm the community’s hotels.
Swanson spoke for the Comfort Inn during council’s Nov. 24 regular meeting, which also saw presentations from two other hotels and the Chamber of Commerce.
The hotel association was concerned about a proposed motion that sought to impose a levy equal to 1.5 per cent of the taxable assessment of properties on temporary accommodations — hotels, motels, inns and bed-and-breakfasts — with no fewer than 10 rentable rooms.
Council voted 5-0 against the motion later in the meeting.
By the numbers
Swanson highlighted how the “ramifications” of the levy would affect the Comfort Inn.
In 2024, the hotel paid $77,543 in property taxes, while this year, because of a higher commercial tax rate and increased property assessment, that number jumped to $107,861 — a 39-per-cent increase, he said.
The proposed motion would add $66,000 to the business’ property taxes, which meant next year, before the municipal tax increase was applied, it would be forced to pay $173,948, the former councillor continued.
Since the Comfort Inn paid $79,631 this year in commercial taxes, increasing that number by $66,000 would hike the hotel’s commercial mill rate by 83 per
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Proposed levy is ‘anti-business’ and harms hotels, ex-councillor says
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cent, while it would also have to pay next year’s municipal tax hike, Swanson added.
‘Faulty assumptions’
Meanwhile, Swanson said there were “faulty and incorrect assumptions” behind city administration’s report about imposing the destination marketing fund (DMF) levy. He pointed out that what the city was proposing was not a DMF charge, but a property tax increase — a “significant difference.”
“A destination marketing fee is a voluntary payment on hotel bills. Customers are entitled to refuse to pay that charge and hotels have to take it off the bill,” he remarked. “A property tax increase cannot be declined.”
Swanson pointed out that tax arrears jumped by 22 per cent year-over-year during this year’s third quarter, while they had risen 71 per cent during the past two years. It was “beyond” him how imposing an 83-percent tax increase on commercial properties would reduce that situation.
Continuing, he said most hotels are franchises of umbrella organizations and pay a percentage of their revenues to those groups, while the organizations have rules that prohibit franchisees from charging DMF fees unless it goes to a DMF-focused group.
“A property tax does not go to a destination marketing fund group, it goes to the City of Moose Jaw,” Swanson remarked.
Occupancy rates
Hotels that don’t charge a DMF fee will still face the 83-per-cent property tax increase, forcing them to increase rates and making them less competitive, he said. Furthermore, the “double whammy” was that the umbrella groups would take a higher percentage of revenues from those hotels and force them to pay a double tax.
City administration is assuming that hotels have occupancy rates of 50 per cent and can apply the DMF fee to customers’ bills, making “everyone happy,” Swanson continued. However, many accommodation providers rarely have 50-per-cent occupancy rates annually.
A DMF fee, unlike a tax, is only charged on occupied rooms, although customers can reject it, while hotels don’t pay the fee on rooms that are unoccupied — due to renovations, damages, or pandemics — but do pay property taxes on them, along with restaurants and pools, he added.
Mixing apples and roller skates
Administration has argued that combining Tourism Moose Jaw (TMJ), Visit Moose Jaw and the Downtown Moose Jaw Association (DMJA) will make promoting tourism more efficient, but Swanson said that wasn’t the case.
“I suggest that that’s not even mixing apples and oranges, that’s mixing apples with roller skates,” he remarked.
Continuing, Swanson said if the DMJA wants to form a business improvement district (BID), it should do it. However, the hotel owners should not be responsible for paying for its operation.
City administration based Moose Jaw’s proposed levy on Prince Albert’s, but Swanson said “the big difference” between the two is that the latter’s money only goes to events or capital required to host events and not to operational expenses.
Prince Albert has capped how much money the hotel group pays, at $51,000 annually, while Moose Jaw’s proposed levy would force the spa to pay $247,000, the Grant Hall $77,000, the Comfort Inn $66,000, the Ramada Inn $70,000, Best Western $110,000 and the Days Inn $100,000, he continued.
Furthermore, Prince Albert has a more vibrant hotel economy with higher average occupancy rates, while this community pays more than its northern cousin, said Swanson.
He noted that most community hotels have less than 50-per-cent annual occupancy rates, although some in the northwest have reached 70 per cent postpandemic.
Repaying a loan
Council loaned Tourism Moose Jaw $73,500 to address the visitor centre’s pigeon-infested attic, with the organization expected to repay the money next year, said Swanson. However, he noted that administration said one benefit of creating a unified tourism board would be eliminating funding to TMJ and DMJA.
“So who would pay that money back?” he asked rhetorically. “Ah, the hotels of Moose Jaw can pay it back.”
Continuing, he said that not only would hotels pay an 83-percent surcharge on their taxes, but they would also retroactively pay for repairing the pigeon-infested attic in a city-owned building on city-owned property of an independent board with city representation. This didn’t make any sense to him.
“This proposal is anti-business (and) it’s anti-investment. It’s a very large tax increase,” said Swanson. “It’s not based on good policy; it’s based on expediency.”
The former councillor suggested that council and administration should “leave the hotels alone” and let them form a DMF group to collect fees so they can fund and support tourism events — which they’ve done for the past 14 years. Also, the city wouldn’t incur expenses if the hoteliers ran the DMF.
“Please, stay out of their business,” Swanson added.
CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES
THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS MONDAY, DEC.1
A business owner who wanted to convert a commercial property into a two-unit residential dwelling will have to settle for a one-unit building after encountering regulatory issues.
Xixi Cai owns 452 Athabasca Street East, which previously housed Galaxy Hobbies and Toys. She submitted a discretionary use application to city hall earlier this year seeking to change the property to a two-unit dwelling from a retail store, as she wanted to sell the property.
The property is in the R4 coremixed residential district, where the city classifies two-unit dwellings as discretionary use.
Xixi’s discretionary use application went to city council’s June 23 meeting, where members unanimously approved her request.
City hall then approved the property owner’s development and building permit on Aug. 21, but she was unable to make the necessary changes to fit within the regulations of a two-unit dwelling, a Nov. 24 regular city council meeting
Regulatory issues force property owner to change project again
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
report said.
So, Xixi decided to go through the discretionary use process again to change the building’s approved use from a two-unit dwelling to a one-unit building, the document added.
City hall issued a building permit in December 2020 to convert the original structure from a one-unit dwelling to a retail store, the report said. Before that, the property had been used for residential purposes since at least 1961, with the earliest records referencing alterations to an existing dwelling that year.
The city permits one-unit dwellings in four zoning districts and allows such buildings in two other districts as a discretionary use, the document continued. Most of the north side of the 400 block of Athabasca Street West is within the R4 district, while there are other districts within the area.
The city expects the effect on community infrastructure to decrease once the business owner converts the retail store into a one-unit dwelling, the report said. The proposed dwelling is expect
Imposing tourism-focused levy on hotels won’t happen, council decides
City council will not proceed with imposing a tourism-focused levy on the community’s temporary accommodation providers, after receiving significant pushback from hoteliers who felt they weren’t properly consulted.
During its Nov. 24 regular meeting, council voted 5-0 against a motion to impose a levy equal to 1.5 per cent of the taxable assessment of properties on temporary accommodations — hotels, motels, inns and bed-and-breakfasts — with no fewer than 10 rentable rooms.
Council also voted against authorizing administration to produce a report outlining options for the future structure, governance and mandate of a new
ed to generate fewer vehicle trips, less noise and lower overall activity than the former retail store.
Meanwhile, the building’s new owners can access a bus stop on Caribou Street East about 350 metres away, while the site is roughly 800 metres east of Main Street, where there are many amenities and bus stops.
The current building has retail space on the main floor and a separate office unit on the second floor, which can be accessed by a back staircase, the report continued. When the owner renovates the home into a one-unit dwelling, city hall will review those changes as part of the building permit process.
The municipality does not expect the changes to be visible from the outside, which will result in no observable effect on the nearby streetscape.
The June 23 council report had said that the property had a front-yard set-
back of 7.5 metres, but the Nov. 24 report corrected that number by saying the setback is 4.145 metres. This is contrary to the six metres that the zoning bylaw prescribes for the R4 district.
However, since the city approved this structure before the current regulations were implemented, the municipality considered the property to be “legally non-conforming” under the Planning and Development Act, the report said. Yet, the property can be used and modified if the changes do not increase the degree of non-conformity.
The report added that the detached garage’s eavestroughs encroach over the east property line by 0.25 feet to 0.9 feet, a condition that has existed since at least 1995.
Council later voted unanimously to approve the discretionary use application for a one-unit dwelling at 452 Athabasca Street East.
organization that would deliver tourism marketing and event attraction services. This new organization would have replaced Tourism Moose Jaw, Visit Moose Jaw and the Downtown Moose Jaw Association.
Opposed were Mayor James Murdock and councillors Jamey Logan, Heather Eby, Chris Warren and Dawn Luhning.
Absent from the meeting were councillors Carla Delaurier and Patrick Boyle.
MooseJawToday.com will feature comments from the hoteliers in separate stories.
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Operation Christmas Child sees another successful year in Moose Jaw
Hundreds of carefully packed shoeboxes are now on their way to children around the world after this year’s Operation Christmas Child packing party wrapped up at Victory Church.
The three-day party, held Nov. 17 to 19, drew a steady stream of volunteers who worked together to fill the shoeboxes with essential and meaningful gifts. By the evening of Nov. 19, the final box was sealed and preparations were underway to send the shipment to Regina, then onward to Calgary for inspection before continuing overseas to families in need.
“It was very good. We had a lot of people come in and help, which is the biggest blessing of all,” said volunteer leader Mary Ellen Willis, who has been at the heart of the local effort for over a decade. “We packed 1,790 boxes at the packing party … (and on) Wednesday we were finished.”
As the number of participants continued to grow, so did the need for space. After several years of hosting the packing party at Twin Lakes Ranch Ministries, organizers moved this year’s event to the larger social hall at Victory Church to accommodate growing participation.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Mary Willis stands with a growing wall of shoeboxes during this year’s packing party at Victory Church — a stack that nearly became “a tidal wave of shoeboxes,” before volunteers rushed in to stabilize it while packing reached a new local record of 1,790 boxes. Photo by: Mary Ellen Willis/Facebook
“I’ve been blessed to be able to use their (Twin Lakes Ranch Ministries) buildings for the last few years, but we felt that we had outgrown their space and approached Victory Church and Lead Pastor Jesse (Bourassa), (asking) if there was a possibility of coming back to Victory Church where we originally started,” Willis explained. “It worked out fantastic and (there was) lots of room.”
The packing party may take three days, but Willis said the preparation is a year-round effort.
Each Canadian owes over $30,000 of national debt
Your share of Canada’s national debt amounts to $34,708.
Don’t worry about the feds asking you to pay it back. National governments around the world never pay off debts.
Once in a while, under pressure from debt-concerned taxpayers, they will make token debt repayments — a few billion here or here. But they never make a serious effort to pay down the debt.
Instead they rely on inflation and tax revenue growth to make the debt appear more affordable.
One exception is the Province of Alberta. That province was nearly debt free by squeezing costs like health care. Then a sharp drop in oil prices put our neighbour back in the red.
Debt is popular with politicians. Debt allows them to provide goodies
“We started collecting again (right after the party),” she said with a smile. “People donate to me and I collect yearround. I’m always at garage sales or a sale at Walmart … scooping up whatever I can for the shoeboxes.”
The campaign is supported by a broad network of contributors. Local knitters supply handmade hats and headbands, while one out-of-town donor produced around 500 pencil bags that were later filled with school items at the Kinsmen Inclusion Centre. Diversified Services helped by creating yarn dolls, prayer pockets, crosses, and other small, handcrafted additions.
Each shoebox is packed intentionally, with volunteers following a simple strategy: something to love, something to play with, something to wear, something for school, and something for hygiene.
Each shoebox is filled with a mixture of joy and practicality — a doll or stuffie to love, small toys, shoes or clothing to wear, and pencils and notebooks for school. Certain items such as military-themed toys, soap, sharp objects, and food are prohibited, but volunteers replace anything taken out with a spare
OPINION EDITORIAL:
TRADING THOUGHTS
By Ron WalterFor Moose Jaw Express
without raising taxes.
Politicians want to stay in power.
Given the choice of paying debt that garners little praise, or funding new programs, they will choose the latter.
Under principles of public finance, debt used to pay for day-to-day services is unacceptable.
Debt is acceptable when used to finance major capital projects like hospitals, schools, highways and military needs.
Some analysts believe in a pay-asyou-go policy.
Another school of thought suggests debt to finance projects to be used by future generations is reasonable. The reasoning: why should future generations be handed everything paid up?
Canada’s debts were accelerated by the Covid 19 pandemic and spending to
suitable item to keep the box full.
For Willis, the motivation comes from firsthand experience. She still recalls the joy on children’s faces when she helped deliver shoeboxes during earlier trips to Costa Rica and Ecuador. In one community, a pencil determined who was allowed to attend school, with teachers sometimes cutting a single pencil into seven pieces so every child could write. At an orphanage, she witnessed the joy of a child receiving two toothbrushes — a remarkable gift in a place where dozens of children normally shared just one.
“It’s such a worthwhile program. Once you see a child get that box, and the joy in that child’s eyes … it makes a difference in that child’s life, that family’s life, and in the community,” she shared.
Willis stressed the importance of acknowledging those who made it possible.
“Thank you to the community for the generosity, and a big thank you to the crew that worked endlessly with me … we couldn’t do it without each other.”
To learn more about Samaritan’s Purse that oversees the campaign, visit SamaritansPurse.ca.
keep the economy from slipping into a decade long depression.
The whole world is mired in debt — exactly $111 trillion —a trillion is a thousand billion — a stratospheric number.
A study by the Visual Capitalist of 84 countries, large and small, puts the debt into some perspective.
By most banking standards individuals should not have debts over 40 per cent of annual income.
None of the 84 countries on the list meets that standard. The average global debt is 94.7 per cent of national income.
The lowest indebted country in the group is the African country Ghana with debt at 51 per cent of national income.
The highest is Japan with debt at a whopping 230 per cent of national income.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Canada rests in 15th spot with 114 per cent debt to income. That is behind the United States in 11th spot with debt at 125 per cent of national income.
The out-sized debts present a monstrous future problem.
Lenders will one day need to extract more interest, given the risk involved with debt piling on debt.
Higher costs for interest will force politicians to either cut back on spending or borrow more.
The cost of servicing the national debt in Canada eats up one in every $10 of federal spending.
The ultimate consequences of global debt mountains will see taxpayers experience soaring interest rates and matching inflation.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@ sasktel.net
‘Jinglefest’ debut a success as community rallies behind local lunch program
The inaugural “Jinglefest” craft show brought a festive buzz to Zion United Church on Nov. 29, drawing dozens of vendors and steady attendance while also shining new attention on a littleknown meal program serving some of Moose Jaw’s most vulnerable residents.
Organized by Diane Loos and Darlene Baylis, the event featured 30 local and regional vendors — with woodwork, baking, holiday décor, handmade gifts and more filling both sides of the church basement. The event also included monetary and non-perishable food donations to support Zion’s “Feed the Hungry” lunch program held at the church every Monday.
Loos said the idea behind Jinglefest was twofold: support local crafters during the Christmas season and provide a boost to a program that quietly feeds dozens each week. She said this was a successful run, with as many as eight additional vendors on the waiting list.
While the craft sale created holiday excitement and shopping opportunities, much of its impact was directed toward the meal program run in partnership with the church and local volunteers.
Judy Taylor, who helps serve lunches each week, said the need is consistent — and growing.
“In the last few weeks, we’ve had about 80 (participants),” she explained.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
“Some days it can be more than that, like for Christmas it will be more. In the summer … we maybe get only 50 or 60, but it’s up there. Not all of these people are homeless — they might just be food insecure. A lot of people living in different senior homes just can’t afford rent and food.”
Taylor explained that volunteers operate informally and are supported by the John Howard Society. “We call our group ‘Our Place,’ because John Howard uses ‘My Place’ … John Howard supplies the funding for the food that we make, and we feed all the people here.”
Meals are served from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Monday, with hot food, coffee, donated winter clothing and a welcoming atmosphere. When the weather turns cold, many seek refuge in the warm social hall of the church. Taylor said the program is about more than just nutrition.
“(You get) quite a warm feeling in your heart talking to all these people … they’re friends now, and they’re wonderful,” she said, adding that many of them stick around to help clean up and contribute in any way they can. “Quite a few of the people, when they’ve finished eating, (will) come and thank us for their food, but then they’ll say, ‘Do you have a pail so I can start washing tables or chairs?’” One regular guest also takes it
upon himself to clean off the plates to help the dishwashers.
“So if we can help them a little bit, that’s wonderful,” she added.
For Loos, ensuring that more residents know about the meal program — and feel encouraged to contribute — is one of the most meaningful outcomes of Jinglefest.
“I feel that there isn’t enough recognition for this program,” she said. “If we can get more people to understand that there’s a food program here, then maybe somebody … will stop by to give (a donation) … so they’re not struggling.”
With meaningful support, Loos confirmed that this Jinglefest won’t be the last. “This went so incredibly well … we will be here again next year.”
Residents wishing to support the meal program can stop by Zion United Church with non-perishable food or warm winter clothing during regular hours of operation. Those in need can stop by the church on Monday mornings at 11 a.m. to receive a meal.
Zion United Church is located at 423 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-692-3842.
nasium, ensuring space for all 30 exhibitors at the inaugural “Jinglefest.” Photo by: Aaron Walker
Shoppers browse the aisles during the inaugural Jinglefest craft show at Zion United Church on the early afternoon of Nov. 29, taking in a wide assortment of handmade goods and festive displays. Photo by: Aaron Walker
With the social hall at capacity, additional vendors filled the adjacent basement gym-
A month of holiday heritage unfolds at the Western Development Museum
This December, the Western Development Museum (WDM) is embracing the holiday season with heritage experiences and family-focused holiday activities, highlighted by the return of “A Christmas Long Ago” and two interactive seek and find adventures in the galleries.
Upcoming events
• Treaty Timeline: Museum guests are invited to learn about treaty history in Canada by walking along a life-size timeline display, which continues up to Jan. 3, 2026. The Treaty Timeline was made in partnership with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner.
• A Christmas Long Ago: The event returns to the WDM Moose Jaw on Dec. 6 and 7, offering families a chance to step back into 1910 settler life and explore the holiday traditions of generations past. Visitors can learn about early Christmas customs, see the types of gifts children once received, play with wooden toys, and make an old-fashioned craft before exploring the galleries. The program will run at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. on both days.
• “Stuff the Superior” food drive: The museum is inviting residents to help fill its 1925 Chevrolet Superior with non-perishable food donations for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. Donations can be dropped off between Dec. 1 and Jan. 4 in the truck bed located in the museum lobby, with donors receiving a special WDM button as a token of thanks.
Seek and find
The museum regularly holds seek and find events to encourage interactive learning. The program includes an activity sheet, and visitors search the galleries for clues on interpretive signs or display cases. Check the museum’s website for updates.
• Snowflake seek and find: Explore the galleries to find nine unique snowflakes hidden beside different artifacts. Use the provided seek and find sheet to record your matches, then submit it when complete. The event will continue throughout December.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
• Toys and pastimes seek and find: Discover images of historic toys and pastimes that would have been shared during “A Christmas Long Ago” that are hidden throughout the museum’s galleries. The event will continue throughout December.
Courses and workshops
The museum offers seasonal educational courses that teach skills ranging from blacksmithing to steam traction-engine operation, with certificates typically awarded upon completion.
• Upcoming courses: Contact the museum’s program and volunteer coordinator at 306-693-5989 for more information.
K+S Short Line 101
To showcase the raw power of steam energy, the WDM showcases its fully operational K+S Potash Canada Short Line 101 steam train each summer, and guests can catch a ride on a working piece of Saskatchewan’s history. Operating since 1978, this is Saskatchewan’s only operational steam locomotive.
• Upcoming train schedule: The Short Line 101 has officially concluded its season. Look for further announcements as the train resumes operations in late spring or early summer 2026.
Reminiscence Kits
The museum’s Reminiscence Kits are meant to bring generations together and ignite new friendships through the sharing of memories. These kits, containing everyday artifacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, can be rented by care homes and other organizations for two weeks at a cost of $75, with an additional $25 fee for a one-week extension. Visit WDM.ca/Reminiscence to book your kit.
Teacher resources
Teachers can access a variety of resources, including information packages and field trip arrangements at the WDM. Visit WDM.ca/MooseJaw/Learn/For-Teachers for more information.
• Educational programs: The WDM features several educational opportunities open for booking this school year, including dozens of inperson programs that make an ideal field trip and virtual learning options. For more information, visit WDM.ca.
• Win a free field trip: Educators and community leaders are invited to enter online at WDM.ca/ FieldTripGiveaway for a chance to win one of four field trips, plus $200 to cover the cost of transportation this
school year. The contest runs from Sept. 2 to Jan. 4, 2026, with winners drawn on Jan. 7, 2026.
History album
The museum’s history album tells Saskatchewan’s story through the experiences of families, small towns, and community organizations across the province. To view the album, visit SaskHistory.ca.
Birthday parties
The museum may just be the perfect venue for your child’s upcoming birthday party. Children ages five to eight can enjoy a two-hour transportation-themed party with up to seven friends included in the $200 fee. You can book by calling the museum at 306-693-5989.
Volunteering
The WDM is always looking for volunteers to help make programming, summer events, and numerous specialized roles at the museum possible. During regular volunteer intakes, the museum’s volunteer co-ordinator will give a facility tour, review safety protocols, and match opportunities to volunteers’ skills and interests.
• Next volunteer orientations: Contact the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-693-5989 for more information.
The WDM is the largest human history museum in Saskatchewan and features a collection of over 75,000 artifacts across four locations. The Moose Jaw branch specializes in the history of transportation.
The museum is currently open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with closures on statutory holidays until Easter 2026. From January to March 2026, the museum will also be closed on Mondays until summer hours resume. The museum will close early at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, and will be closed Dec. 25, 26, and Jan. 1. For more information, visit WDM.ca/ Moose-Jaw or reach out to the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-693-5989.
The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.
The WDM Moose Jaw’s 1925 Chevrolet Superior is serving as a food collection point this December, helping support the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank during the “Stuff the Superior” drive. Photo by: WDM Moose Jaw (Moose Jaw, SK, Canada)/Facebook
The 2025 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Canada West Curling Championships brought together military athletes from across Western Canada for four days of competition in Moose Jaw, as 10 teams hit the ice at the Temple Gardens Centre from Nov. 24 to 27.
Teams representing bases in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories competed for the regional title, with the host team from 15 Wing Moose Jaw earning a notable run to the semifinal round.
The local rink — skipped by Corporal Jonathan Benson, with Lieutenant Rob Cogswell at third, Sergeant Jay McLelland at second, and Captain Philip Rochon as lead — went undefeated in round robin play and secured a top position within Pool B.
“It was good curling and these were all good teams. No game was a sure thing — we always had to battle for it. I was pretty impressed with the amount of skill out there,” Benson said.
All teams were required to play a minimum of four round robin games, with the top four advancing to the playoff semifinals on Nov. 27.
15 Wing’s early strengths were clear, beginning with a 9–6 victory over Wainwright on Nov. 25, followed by a 7–4 win over Portage later that day and
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
a decisive 12–4 win over Shilo on Nov. 26. Benson said the team’s performance reflected both skill and resilience, especially considering the short period of preparation that was unusually tight for a competition of this calibre.
“We just came together as a group at the last minute,” he said, noting that the group had two practices over a twoweek period before the tournament.
“Each one of us has curled on a different team … I was actually amazed with the way we gelled.”
15 Wing ultimately fell in their semifinal matchup against Suffield/ Yellowknife on the final morning of play, ending their run and placing them within the tournament’s top three. Notably, the Moose Jaw rink had beaten another playoffbound team earlier in the week, adding to the sense that they were genuine contenders for a medal spot had a formal bronze match been held.
“We beat the other team that was in the playoffs … (but) it’s hard to know (if we could have won bronze) without actually playing a final game,” he said.
Although Winnipeg captured gold and Cold Lake took silver, Moose Jaw still came out ahead. Hosting the championship for the third time in four years has reinforced the city’s reputation as a welcoming home for military sport and curling talent.
“We have a good facility. I think this is why we, from the past four years, hosted three (of those tournaments),” Benson said.
The bonding among competitors — many of whom have faced one another on the ice over multiple years — continues to be part of the event’s appeal.
“This is my third year,” Benson noted. “I’ve gotten to know some of these guys because you see the same people over and over. A few of them have gone to different bases because they’ve been posted out, but it’s still the same group … (plus) a lot of new faces this year.”
His reflections after the final draw captured the competitive spirit and enduring enthusiasm of military sport.
“It was a lot of good competition. I didn’t
want it to end after our final game,” he said. “I want to get out there and play some more.”
Discussions for next year are already underway within the 15 Wing rink, with the primary focus being to “get together as a group earlier in the season … so we can gel better,” Benson said.
Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS) oversees CAF sports and supports organized athletic competition and fitness for military members across Canada. To learn more, visit CFMWS.ca or contact Personnel Support Programs (PSP) Moose Jaw at 306-694-2873.
Teams from all 10 participating bases gather for a group photo in Moose Jaw during the 2025 CAF Canada West Curling Championships. Photo by: PSP Moose Jaw/Facebook
The acting base commander of 15 Wing Moose Jaw delivers closing remarks in the Founder’s Lounge at the Temple Gardens Centre on Nov. 27. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Winnipeg’s rink stands with their gold medals following their championship victory on Nov. 27. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Cold Lake curlers release one of the final stones of the tournament on Nov. 27 during the gold-medal match. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Moose Jaw Warriors score three in third period to steal win from Hitmen in Calgary
Warriors outshot 46-19 but go on to 5-2 victory in Western Hockey League action
Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
Looking at the shot totals from the Western Hockey League game between the Moose Jaw Warriors and Calgary Hitmen on Thursday night November 27, Calgary dominated zone time most of the game and ended up pouring 46 shots on goal, with their 20 shots in the second period more th an Moose Jaw had in game. But sometimes teams find a way to win games they should have no chance in, and this was one of those nights for the Warriors.
The Moose Jaw Warriors had a stellar showing from goaltender Chase Wutzke on their way to a win over the Calgary
on Thursday night. Calgary Hitmen
Goaltender Chase Wutzke turned in an outstanding performance to hold the fort as the Hitmen pressed in the first half of the game, and the Warriors would go on to a 5-2 win in Calgary.
The Warriors improve to 12-11-1-1 and are now two points back of Calgary for fifth in the Eastern Conference, with the Hitmen falling to 12-7-3-1.
Lethbridge Hurricanes score four goals in wild third period to take win over Moose Jaw Warriors
Luke Cozens has four-point outing as Hurricanes take 6-3 win Western Hockey League action
Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com
The Moose Jaw Warriors did their best to go blow-for-blow with the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Friday night, but the home team would have the extra answer all night long and would go on to find the win column in Western Hockey League action on Friday night, November 28.
The Hurricanes outscored the Warriors 4-2 in the second period and would go on to a 6-3 victory behind a four-point game from Luke Cozens in Lethbridge.
Warriors logo
Moose jaw falls to 12-12-1-1 as their up-and-down season continues, while Lethbridge improves to 9-17-0-1 on the campaign.
Cyclones Lose Close Junior Boy’s Final To PA’s St Mary
By Robert Thomas
Bigger guys, tougher rebounding and propensity to hit field goals were three of the reasons Prince Albert’s St Mary Marauders were able to defeat the Central Cyclones 76 - 68 in the boy’s gold medal game of the Moose Jaw High
School Athletic Association (MJHSAA) Junior Basketball Kickoff Tournament.
The Marauders would hold off the Cyclones to score two more three pointers in the fourth quarter to capture the junior boy’s tournament crown 76 - 68.
The opening junior basketball tournament of the season - the Moose Jaw High School Athletic Association (MJHSAA) Junior Basketball Kickoff Tournamentsaw the Central Cyclones pitted against the Vanier Spirits in the junior girls division championship game.
The Cyclones led against the Spirits through each quarter of the game.
The final score was Cyclones 67 and Spirits 31.
Top scorer for the Cyclones was Sienna Stadnyk with 16 points.
Top scorer for the Spirits was Charlotte Mallari with six points.
Onyi Chukwurah also scored six points for the Spirits.
Rhaea Stinn surpasses her own world record, adds sixth powerlifting title
Moose Jaw’s Rhaea Stinn has lifted her way into history yet again, claiming her sixth consecutive world championship title and breaking her own bench press world record in the process.
Stinn claimed gold at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Open Equipped Powerlifting Championships in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, on Nov. 16, delivering a flawless nine-for-nine performance en route to a 701-kilogram total and a personal best.
“Winning six in a row is definitely not something that I thought would be possible,” Stinn said. “I was really thrilled with how my performance came together this year. … The last time I had achieved my personal best was back in 2022 … it felt really good to put my best performance together for my sixth world championship.”
Stinn competed in a field of 12 international athletes and said two key moments stood out.
“(One) moment that stands out … would be in the bench press. I benched 228.5 kg, which was a world record — I was breaking my own world record,” she said.
She also hit a milestone she had been pursuing for years: a lift surpassing 700 kg.
“Then (another highlight was) pulling my final deadlift for a total over 700 kg. It’s a number that I’ve been chasing for a while. The last time (I attempted this) was in 2022 when I hit 697 (kg), so it felt good to get a new personal best on the total and breach that 700 barrier.”
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Stinn was born and raised in Moose Jaw and said carrying the city’s name onto the world stage remains deeply meaningful.
“It’s always an honour to represent Moose Jaw, the province, and the country on the world stage. It’s something that I’ve done so many times, but every time I try not to take it for granted because at some point it might be my last time on the international platform.”
Her recent achievements were a continuation of her longstanding career in the sport.
“I started competing when I was 14, so I was pretty young at the time. I’m 37 now, so it’s been with me as I grew up,” Stinn said. “I basically started because I knew getting stronger would help me in my high school sports, and my brother had been competing in the sport for a little while so he got me into it. I’ve been competing ever since.”
Outside of her regular competitions, Stinn is also the founder of Inner Strength Products, a Moose Jaw-based business founded in 2010 that provides powerlifting gear nationwide and sup-
port for local powerlifters. She runs the store with her husband, Ryan Stinn, who is also an international competitor and coach.
Next up for Stinn is nationals in March, where her results will guide which international events she’ll take on in 2026. These may include the North American and the Commonwealth Championships.
“I’ll likely do something at one of those (events), potentially with the goal of hitting that world record. We’ll see how training goes and how my body holds up over the next six to eight months and make some decisions at that time,” she said. “Then, the World Championships will be in November again next year, so that’ll be on my radar as well.”
Stinn extended an open invitation to anyone curious about the sport. She and local organizers will be hosting a powerlifting competition from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Golden Nugget Centre on Saturday, Dec. 6.
“If you’re interested in the sport or just want to come and watch or check it out, there (will be) a wide range of athletes from young youth lifters to Masters lifters competing, both male and female,” she said. “It should be a good day and will be worthwhile checking out.”
The Golden Nugget Centre and Inner Strength Products are located at 250 Thatcher Drive East. Inner Strength Products can be reached at 306-9127611.
Moose Jaw’s Rhaea Stinn, seen here at the 2024 CPU Nationals, continues to add to her remarkable legacy. This fall, she earned her sixth straight world title and broke her own world bench press record. Photo by: Rhaea Stinn/Facebook
Moose Jaw Motocross Association track crowned ‘25 SMA ‘Track of the Year’
The Moose Jaw Motocross Association has earned serious bragging rights on the provincial circuit after its home track was named the 2025 “Track of the Year” by the Saskatchewan Motocross Association (SMA), rising to the top spot among 10 SMA-sanctioned tracks across Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Manitoba.
The award is determined by the riders who put their machines to the test on every course throughout the season. Club vice-president Raymond Arrance said the win reflects the effort of the many local hands who continue to shape and refine the track.
The course wasn’t built in a single season, and it didn’t rise to the top by accident. What riders now enjoy as a fast, technical, and evolving circuit began as a flat field and has been transformed step by step through years of sweat, machinery, and community commitment.
“It came from a flat field years back and has been slowly worked on as time progresses. We just keep working at it,” Arrance said. “It has seen lots of hours and lots of volunteers (working) to keep it going.”
Over the course of the season, SMA riders compete on 10 different tracks across Saskatchewan and into Alberta and Manitoba before the year-end banquet where awards such as Track of the Year, Club of the Year, “Moto Mom,” and “Moto Dad” are presented.
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Arrance credited the support of the membership, as well as crucial assistance from local partners, for helping push the club ahead.
“We had a local farmer come out and give us a big hand with the equipment. (We also had) a big help from all the volunteers and members of the club itself.”
He added that a core group of major sponsors have provided vital financial help and equipment support over the years. Among those are Golden West Trailer & Equipment Ltd., SaskBattery, and Mercury Service Ltd.
Arrance noted that the track continues to evolve each year, not only in layout but in surface quality and safety
measures. In recent seasons, the club has experimented with different soil-mixing methods to improve the racing surface.
“This year, and over the last two years, we’ve been really working with the dirt to try and hold moisture. We’ve been trying out different things — mixing hay and straw into the dirt …,” he explained. “Nobody likes riding on a dusty track because it’s unsafe and you can’t see, right?”
The motivation for the work isn’t profit-driven. Many of those involved are parents, riders, and volunteers who simply want the sport to thrive locally.
“Every day you’re out there (and it’s a new) day of work,” Arrance said.
“It’s mainly meant just for the kids — my son races — and I used to as well, but every time I go out there I normally don’t get to practice or anything. It’s normally jump on a piece of equipment and start doing something — it’s basically what every parent does.”
Arrance emphasized what the recognition represents for the club.
“It’s a big honour, because there are lots of other clubs that are working really hard and trying to do their best with limited resources … for the riders and to represent the SMA,” he said.
Anyone wanting to get involved, learn more, or purchase a membership can stop by Mercury Service Ltd. at 1490 Caribou Street West or contact the club directly through its Facebook page, “Moose Jaw Motocross Association,” to get started. The association can be reached at 306-684-9252.
Members of the Moose Jaw Motocross Association gather with their newly earned SMA “Track of the Year” trophy. Photo by: Moose Jaw Motocross Association
Riders power into the course and soar over one of the jumps during a June outing, a glimpse of the features that helped Moose Jaw’s track stand out among SMA racers.
Photo by: Bob Schultz
Moose Jaw judoka reach podium at provincial judo season opener
Moose Jaw was well represented at Judo Saskatchewan’s season-opening tournament in Watrous on Nov. 22, as athletes from both the Moose Jaw Koseikan Judo Club and Control Judo earned multiple podium finishes across several divisions.
The event marked the official start of the provincial competitive calendar and featured a full day of shiai, kata, and groundwork divisions across youth, junior, and senior levels. The tournament also served as an early measuring point for athletes working toward Saskatchewan Games qualification, with several age-eligible competitors beginning their pathway toward district team selection.
“Judo Saskatchewan’s first competition of the season was hosted by the Watrous Ju-No-Ri Judo Club this (past) weekend,” said Judo Saskatchewan vice president Jim Wiens. “The event attracted 104 athletes from all over the province, for a total of 168 entries, confirming that the sport is growing in the province again this season.”
Moose Jaw’s Koseikan Judo Club turned in an impressive showing across several age categories. Josie Mawson led the way with gold in Senior Female +63 kg, followed by teammates Raylynn Maerz, who earned silver, and Diedra Halvorson, who earned bronze to sweep the division.
Oleksandr Kornat earned silver in Senior Male -66 kg ne waza (groundwork techniques) before striking gold in U18 -66 kg, while Hunter McRoberts took gold in his U12 ne waza pool and added silver in U12 tachi waza (standing techniques). Alex Maerz secured bronze in the U12/14 Male pool, and Winter-Sky Aisaican earned silver in U16 Female, with a total of 10 Koseikan judoka reaching medal-round contention.
Athletes from Moose Jaw’s Control Judo club, a division of Control
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Moose Jaw’s Oleksandr Kornat, bottom, works for position against Saskatoon’s Artur Ilchenko, top, at the season-opening Watrous judo tournament on Nov. 22. Photo by: Judo Saskatchewan
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, also ranked among the tournament’s top performers.
Margeaux Frattinger captured gold in U12 Female (Pool A) and later claimed silver in U12 Female tachi waza, while Isabelle Frattinger won double gold in U10 Female and U10 Female tachi waza. Payton Pinel added another gold in U14 Female -40/44 kg.
In the senior men’s divisions, David Frattinger earned bronze in Senior Male +81 kg ne waza and closed out the day with gold in Senior Male -90 kg.
Many youth competitors approached the Watrous tournament as an early step in the Saskatchewan Games qualification cycle.
“For Saskatchewan Games-aged athletes, this competition is the first step in securing a spot on the team for their individual sport district,” Wiens said.
He added that organizers adapted part of the event format to align more closely with Games requirements:
“The Kodomo-No-Kata divisions were specifically added to this tournament for those same athletes, as they will be performing these katas at Saskatchewan Games in February.”
The Watrous club’s newly expanded training facility reflects a province-wide resurgence in judo, a trend also evident in Moose Jaw’s growing numbers and strong performances, according to Wiens.
Moose Jaw will host the next provincial judo competition on Sunday, Dec. 14, when the Koseikan dojo welcomes athletes for the annual Koseikan/Regina Y regional tournament.
“There is no charge for spectators (and) everyone is welcome to come check out the event,” Wiens confirmed.
To learn more about the Koseikan Judo Club, visit MJJudo.com, and for Control Judo, visit ControlBJJ.com.
The Moose Jaw Koseikan Judo Club is located at 801 Hochelaga Street East and can be reached at 306-6910051.
THIS WEEKS FLYERS
*Full Circulation means every home & paper should have this yer. If you are missing call us @306-694-1322. *Selected Areas means only selected areas were chosen by the business or agency (please call the business).
Moose Jaw stands with women during ‘16 Days of Activism,’ White Ribbon campaigns
The Moose Jaw Transition House has launched its annual “16 Days of Activism” campaign, joined by the White Ribbon Campaign and a network of community partners from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10 in a united effort to raise awareness and support efforts to help end gender-based violence.
“The purpose overall is to raise awareness and garner support for the elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls,” explained Transition House executive director Jenn Angus.
Several observances fall within these two weeks, including the Nov. 25 kick-off of the White Ribbon Campaign, which has been active in Canada since 1991. It also includes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on Dec. 6, honouring the 14 women murdered at Montreal’s École Polytechnique in 1989 simply because they were female engineering students, according to the killer’s own statements.
Angus said these observances create opportunities for visible support. “It all happens at once, but it gives us an opportunity to show … different ways people can be involved and support our cause.”
A key part of that involvement comes from Moose Jaw’s business, civic, and first responder communities.
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The Moose Jaw Co-op and CEO Geoff Anderson continue to be among the most committed supporters of the campaign, with Anderson saying in a previous interview that the issue is deeply meaningful to him.
“When I was a young kid growing up in the ‘80s, my mom, sister, and I had to flee our home many times — sometimes not even with the shoes on our feet — to seek shelter,” he said. “When I found out what (transition houses) did for the women and children in our community who are fleeing this type of violence, it really tugged on my heartstrings.”
Volunteers will attend the Moose Jaw Warriors home game against the
Medicine Hat Tigers on Dec. 5 to distribute white ribbons and connect with the public. Angus emphasized the importance of that visibility: “Violence against women and girls has no place in our community … by putting that out there publicly, we’re really making sure that people are aware that this is an issue and how many women are impacted by this.”
She noted Saskatchewan’s domestic violence rates remain among the highest in Canada.
“What we hear from the survivors — both women and children — who we work with is that it validates that this shouldn’t have happened to them,” Angus said. “Sometimes, when someone is experiencing abuse, they start to second guess if they deserve it or if they did something wrong. There’s a lot of guilt associated with leaving a domestic violence situation. When the community comes together and says, ‘We hear you, we validate you, and we don’t think that this is acceptable,’ it’s very empowering for someone who might be considering leaving a situation or who has left. They (then) know that they protected themselves and their children, and that was the right thing to do and it was wrong for someone to abuse them.”
Angus said long-term progress would look like “prevention before cri-
sis.”
“The more of these awareness campaigns we have, and the more … men and boys (stand) with us as well, the more likely it is that this (violent behaviour) will stop happening in our community,” she said. “Every single year, the men in this community are incredible. Everywhere I turn, we are supported so strongly by men who believe in this cause.”
She added: “Violence against women and girls affects one in three women, and those numbers need to change. We can’t do this in silos … we need to have everyone involved to make our communities safer.”
On Dec. 6, the Co-op food store will distribute red roses in commemoration of the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. White ribbons are available at the Transition House outreach office at 105B High Street West, the “Moose Jaw Transition House” Facebook page, by calling 306693-6511, and at the Temple Gardens Centre on Dec. 5.
The campaign closes Dec. 10 with an open house at the Transition House office from 2 to 5 p.m.
To learn more, visit WhiteRibbon. ca.
GoFundMe campaign launched for Gardner family after tragic loss
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched in support of the Gardner family following the sudden passing of 25-year-old Moose Jaw resident Tyler Gardner, who tragically died in a car accident on Nov. 21.
Many have shown support through condolences and donations to the online fundraiser. The campaign was created by organizer Parker Rozsa to help the family with funeral expenses for Gardner’s Nov. 28 service and associated costs.
The campaign statement, written by Rozsa, speaks directly to the gravity of the loss.
“On (Nov. 21), the Gardner family suffered an unimaginable loss. Their son and brother, just 25 years old, tragically passed away in a car accident. His pass-
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ing has left his loved ones heartbroken and trying to cope with a reality that changed in an instant.
“No family is ever prepared to lose someone so young, and the emotional and financial burden has been overwhelming. This GoFundMe has been created to help support the family with funeral expenses and the unexpected costs that come with such a heartbreaking loss. Any contribution will make a meaningful difference as they navigate this difficult time. Even sharing the fundraiser helps more than you know.”
The appeal also acknowledges the community’s response. “The family deeply appreciates all the love, condolences, and support they’ve received so far. Every donation, message, and act of kindness brings them strength as they grieve and honour his memory.”
As of Nov. 27, the campaign has
raised $15,315 of its $18,000 target, according to GoFundMe. The campaign goal was initially set at $5,000, but organizers have since raised the fundraising target to keep pace with required expenses.
Fundraisers such as this provide a practical way for families to manage unexpected expenses following a tragedy, and also serve as a platform for supporters to contribute in various ways. Along with financial contributions, many donors have left messages of condolence on the fundraising page.
Those wishing to donate to the campaign can visit GoFundMe.com and search for “In Loving Memory of Tyler Gardner.”
An undated photo of Tyler Gardner, left, alongside his mother, right, shared with the family’s GoFundMe campaign. Photo by: GoFundMe.com
‘Christmas Spirit for Seniors’ campaign returns for its ninth and biggest year
The “Christmas Spirit for Seniors” campaign is back for its ninth year with record-setting participation, as organizer Ashley Armstrong invites residents to help spread some much-needed holiday cheer for older residents in care homes across the city.
Wish tags are now available at the Sahara Spa with gifts due back by Dec. 20. Armstrong and her volunteers from Moose Jaw Search and Rescue, the Kinsmen Club, and the AA Warriors hockey team will distribute presents on Dec. 23 so every senior has something waiting by Christmas Eve.
“It’s exactly the same program (as previously),” Armstrong said. “There’s a fairly big difference this year — last year the final tally was 402 … this year we have 540 seniors, so it’s our biggest year yet.”
The program continues to “share the Christmas spirit” for seniors who may not see a gift otherwise.
“It brings so much joy to these (seniors) to have a gift to open from a random person who is thinking about them at Christmas,” she said.
Handwritten wish tags — each representing a senior resident in a local care home — were set up last week on the Christmas tree inside the Sahara Spa. Residents are invited to stop in, choose a tag, and purchase one or more items from the attached wish list. Gifts are then to be wrapped with the tag clearly visible.
“They just went up on the tree today
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at the Sahara Spa,” she said on Nov. 29. “We just ask that the public come down, find a tag, and then return the gift.”
Armstrong said the wishes trending across all care homes remain humble and practical, with many easily completed by spending only around $15.
“This year, I’ve noticed way more of a need for personal necessities. (I’ve seen) lots of body wash, deodorant — things like that … they’re really dependent on this program to get those personal necessities.” Shoppers can add a few extra items, but she noted that homemade baking should not be included.
Many seniors also ask for small comforts: chocolate bars, wool slippers, cozy blankets — and yes, Armstrong added with a laugh, “it’s the same person every year” who still requests a bottle
of wine or Jack Daniel’s. “This actually brings me more joy, because I know they’re still kicking around.”
Armstrong said her earlier goal of including all local senior care homes has now been achieved. “We have seven care homes that we take care of every year, and I actually had to go out and buy more gift tags to put on the tree this year … I was not expecting the number that came in.”
This development has grown in tandem with an outpouring of generosity from the community.
“This morning I had a lady reach out with some questions about the tags … her family had a little extra (to give) this year, so they signed out 15 tags, which is insane to me,” she said. “The generosity of this community just blows
me away, every year.”
Each tag is prepared by hand, but “Moose Jaw’s Christmas elf” receives a little help behind the scenes from her mother. “I want to give a special thanks again (this year) to my mom. Life was absolutely crazy right around the time that I was trying to get all the tags prepared … she sat for days and helped me write … so they’re still all handwritten.”
The program was originally created in memory of Armstrong’s brother, Craig Althouse. “This program was started because of my brother and wanting to honour him at Christmas and his love for seniors,” she said. “It just makes me incredibly grateful for the community that he grew up in, (because) everybody is still rallying behind this.”
To learn more or to help out, visit the “Christmas Spirit for Seniors” Facebook page or stop by the Sahara Spa at 341 Stadacona Street East.
Heartland Hospice continues fundraising as capital campaign enters final stretch
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Heartland Hospice Moose Jaw is heading into December with a slate of fundraising efforts as it works toward closing the remaining $380,000 needed to complete its capital commitment for the now completed hospice wing and upcoming sacred space at Pioneer Lodge.
Connie Paul, a board member and fundraiser with Heartland Hospice, said the response from the community has been remarkable so far.
“We’ve raised approximately $925,000 already, and we still have $380,000 remaining to fulfill our commitment to the hospice wing and sacred
space,” she said.
Several initiatives are supporting that effort, including a Christmas ornament sale, a festive centerpiece workshop, the annual Giving Tuesday 50/50 draw, and Heartland’s seasonal “Light Up the Lodge” tradition.
The Christmas ornament fundraiser, which wrapped up Nov. 30, featured hand-crafted memorial ornaments by Ripley Studios sold as a holiday tribute piece. Heartland Hospice also concluded its annual Giving Tuesday 50/50 draw on Dec. 3.
Upcoming fundraisers
Next up is the Christmas centerpiece workshop that will take place on Dec. 11 at Mitny Refillery, now located at 368 High Street West. The workshop offers participants an opportunity to create their own seasonal arrangement using fresh evergreens and textured greenery. The workshop begins at 7:30 p.m., with registrations submitted via an e-transfer of $65 per person to Fundraiser@HHMJ.ca.
“It’ll be a nice evening out for a bunch of ladies if they want,” Paul suggested.
Meanwhile, the Light Up the Lodge
display is already shining outside Pioneer Lodge, with decorations and lights surrounding the Serenity Garden. This year’s installation includes a featured Christmas tree provided by the Moose Jaw Co-op.
“My husband and I just finished decorating it today (Nov. 29). We’ve put lights on and it’s all ready to go if people want to drive by and take a look at it,” Paul said. “It brings some joy to the residents and staff at Pioneer Lodge, and is just something to put a bit of sparkle in
Continued on next page
Members of the AA Warriors hockey team help gather and organize donated gifts under the tree at Sahara Spa, marking their third year supporting the Christmas Spirit for Seniors campaign. Photo by: Ashley Armstrong/Submitted
Organizer Ashley Armstrong, left, prepares for the 2025 Christmas Spirit for Seniors delivery effort. Photo by: Ashley Armstrong/Submitted
Helping Moose Jaw Seniors Age Well At Home
Moose Jaw is fortunate to have a program that helps seniors to age well at home. The Seniors Centre Without Walls, located in the Town and Country Mall, has been providing affordable services that make it possible for seniors to get the support they need to remain in their homes.
In the 2024/2025 year alone, they provided over 11,400 services. This included: 400 transportation rides to
appointments, 2500 housecleaning and help around the home visits, 400 yard care services, and over 950 hours of companionship visits. This high volume of service is made possible by their caring staff, volunteers, and summer students.
Services offered include friendly visits, at home assistance, and referrals to other community resources. Surveys conducted by the Seniors Centre Without
Walls demonstrate the significant positive impact of their work: 97% of participants remained in their own homes, delaying or preventing premature institutionalization and reducing hospital visits. Furthermore, 89% reported improved health, safety, and independence, leading to an improved quality of life for Moose Jaw seniors.
We urgently need caring volunteer drivers and house cleaners to help local seniors get to medical appointments and
stay safely in their own homes. If you have a few hours a month and want to make a real difference for someone who truly needs it, please contact us today.
Seniors Centre Without Walls is located in the Town and Country Mall, Moose Jaw at 102-1235 Main St North, the office phone number is 306-692-2242 for more further information their website is scww.ca.
Senior citizens: Do you need help at home? Or are you a friend or family member that knows a Senior that could use a helping hand around the house. We can make your daily life easier. Our team provides light house cleaning, companionship, errands, deliveries, and transportation to medical appointments or social events in Moose Jaw and Regina. We help seniors stay safe, comfortable, and independent at home.
Household Income over $30,000 Help at home - $28/hr
Regular Rates Transportation Equity Rates
Moose Jaw $20 (round trip)
(Medical appointments & Social Outings)
Regina $75 (round trip)
Medical appointments only)
Rural to Moose Jaw .52/km
Snow shoveling $35
their lives for the holidays.”
If residents find themselves with leftover Christmas ornaments or decorations, Heartland Hospice would be happy to accept donations by calling 306-690-8699.
The “Giving Tree,” a sculpted metal installation inside the wing’s hallway created and donated by Bill and Loretta Keen, also continues as a lasting memorial program. Donors can dedicate engraved leaves at various recognition levels, with the piece permanently displayed inside the hospice wing.
“People can donate for a lasting tribute to their loved ones through that,” she said. “We’ve actually been having some really good success with it.”
Sacred space
Construction on the sacred space is progressing steadily, and an open house is tentatively targeted for January 2026. The room will serve as a quiet, contemplative setting intended to support different cultural and spiritual backgrounds.
As one demonstration of that multi-
Under $30,000 Income Help at home - $10/hr
$10 (round trip)
$ ask for December pricing
$ ask for December pricing $35
If prices are a hardship please phone the office, subsidy maybe available!
If you have a lower income - some sponsorship may be available.
Call 306 692 2242 to pre register in the program today.
Email: MJSSRonda@gmail.com
You can then call us anytime when you want to book an appointment.
We have a few openings now for new clients.
Gift certificates available. Check out our website scww.ca
December Office Hours: Monday to Thursday 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Senior Centre Without Walls.
faith inclusivity, Paul said the space will include several recently donated prayer pillows.
“Not everybody will use the Bible or hold the Bible to do actual prayers — it all depends on that person and (their culture),” she noted. “This is just something a little different that the individual can have and hang on to give some comfort.”
Paul said Heartland Hospice remains deeply grateful for the community’s ongoing support and said fundraising efforts will continue until the campaign has reached its goal.
“The community has just been wonderful,” she said.
Heartland Hospice recently set up a legacy giving account, enabling supporters to leave long-term contributions or bequests in their name, with tax-receipted recognition handled through the organization.
To learn more, visit HeartlandHospiceMJ.ca. Pioneer Lodge is located at 1000 Albert Street.
A trusted non profit Serving Moose Jaw seniors since
Heartland Hospice continues fundraising as capital campaign enters final stretch, continued
The Christmas tree, donated by the Moose Jaw Co-op and decorated by Connie Paul and her husband, is now lit outside Pioneer Lodge as part of Heartland Hospice’s “Light Up the Lodge” initiative. Photo by: Connie Paul
Can you find the hidden words? They may be horizontal, vertical, diagonal, forwards or backwards.
Sudoku #5 - Challenging
Just about the time most of us finally learn all the answers, they change all the questions. 3 7 5 4 9 3 8 9 7 5 8 4 6 9 4 2 3 2 1 5 3 7 8 5 1 3 2
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.
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.
1. Triangular formation 6. Talk 10. Annual high school dance
14. Large body of water 15. Rattling breath 16. Possess 17. A tall mechanical lifting device 18. Portent
Death notice
Shades
Fork prong
Once, long ago
Worn away
Lowlife
Be in debt
Canine
Arm bone
Crumbling earthy deposit
Sporting venue
Railroad
Unpredictable
Geologic period
Kind of palm
Purple shade
47. Petroleum
49. Not good
50. Goes quickly
51. Ample
54. Anagram of “Sale”
56. Thin strip
57. Based on reason 63. Detest
64. Colored part of the eye
65. Agitated
66. Ends a prayer 67. Penny 68. Category 69. Verruca
Droops 71. Water vapor DOWN
Documents
Beige
Not fatty
Zest
Bless with oil
Transversely
Rodent pet
Away from the wind
Got uptight
Picture
11. Fanatical 12. Sheeplike 13. Doled 21. Fragrance 25. Big laugh 26. Certain 27. Applaud
28. Freshwater mussel
29. Quibbler
34. Adhering to legalism
36. Decorative case
37. Pleasant
38. Cards with one symbol 40. Iota
42. Cowboy sport
45. Diminishing
48. Words to a song 51. Exclamation of contempt
52. Andean animal 53. Diner 55. Hitches
58. District 59. Assist illegally 60. Individual 61. Former Italian currency 62. Primordial matter
CLASSIFIED ADS
205 WANTED
Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-313-3439.
LOOKING FOR: Unwanted media records, video games, VHS tapes, CD’s, and stereo equipment. Will pick up, 306-527-7786 or 306-631-8399.
WANTED: Unwanted Linoel
Train Sets, accessories, and rolling stock. 027 gauge. Steam locomotives preferred. Please call 306-526-0016.
WANTED: Gear for the first stage of a John Deere snowblower (70’s model). Phone Mike at 306693-4853.
WANTED: 4-wheel stroller with adjustable handles. Please call 306-972-8855.
188 HEALTH & BEAUTY SUPPLIES
Mobility Scooter for Sale: The Express Element – Range 50 km, tubeless tires, LED lights, horn, speed up to 25/km, rear basket, under seat storage, and bag hook. BRAND NEW $3995.00. Call 306-694-1322 for more information.
160 MISCELLANEOUS
For Sale: Hallmark keepsake Christmas tree ornaments, from kids Winnie the Pooh and others, to Mickey Mantle, Joe Namath, and others. 306-692-7211.
210 SERVICES
Moving jobs done reasonably: appliances, furniture, dump runs. Call to do it all. $45.00 a load. 306-630-2268
Need work done? Contact Bill at 306-630-2268 . Interior/exterior, renovations, formwork, framing, finishing, tiling, painting and all construction, roofing/siding- no job too big or small. Reasonable rates, 30 years experience. Cleaner with 20 years experience. Carpet cleaning also available. Please call Rebecca at 306-990-0387.
Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver any appliances, tvs, furniture, or anything large in and around Moose Jaw, $45 and up. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $20 each.
1000 Litre plastic totes - $60. 45-gallon metal barrels, $15 each. 306681-8749
LOST CAT - $500 REWARD for information proving her location, confidentiality guaranteed. Missing from West Park area. Believed to be stolen and living in West Park. Answers to June. Please call 306-313-7771.
Celebrate the season with December programs at the Moose Jaw Public Library
With December bringing its holiday spirit, the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) is offering a cheerful month of films, music, crafts, contests, and winter-friendly programs for every member of the community.
Movie club
The library’s movie club meets twice monthly to watch a film and engage in a short discussion starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.
• Kiss Kiss Bang Bang: The movie is a sharp, darkly funny holiday mystery about a thief posing as an actor who gets pulled into a real murder case with a dry-witted private detective. Fast and clever, it twists classic noir tropes with playful humour and strong chemistry between Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer. Show date: Monday, Dec. 8
• Carol: The movie is a tender 1950s-set romance about a young photographer who forms a quiet, lifealtering bond with an elegant woman navigating a painful divorce. Lush, sensitive, and emotionally rich, it captures a forbidden love with subtlety and grace, led by performances from Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara. Show date: Monday, Dec. 22
The library’s Documentary Night showcases documentary films that rarely hit theatres and takes place on the last Thursday of each month starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.
• Kedi: Kedi is a poetic documentary that explores Istanbul through the lives of its roaming street cats and the people who care for them. Gentle and visually rich, it offers a unique portrait of a city and its soul. Show date: Thursday, Dec. 18
A few movie matinees will be screened for audiences of all ages in the library’s theatre starting at 2:30 p.m. Admission is free, and everyone’s welcome.
• The Muppet Christmas Carol: A miserly Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve who show him visions of his past, present, and future, prompting him to confront the consequences of his cold-hearted ways and discover the true meaning of Christmas. Show date: Saturday, Dec. 13 (rated G)
• The Holdovers: The movie follows a grumpy prep-school teacher stuck supervising students over Christmas break, who unexpectedly forms meaningful connections with a troubled teen and the school cook. Show date: Saturday, Dec. 27 (rated 14A)
Maker nights
Maker nights provide an evening dedicated to learning and creating with others. Register by calling 306-6922787. The program runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room for ages 13 and up.
• Maker night: Guests will make circuit holiday cards on Monday, Dec. 15. Advance registration is required.
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
• Teen Makers: Guests will make holiday cards on Wednesday, Dec. 3
• Maker Saturdays: Guests will write Scratch code on Saturday, Dec. 20, starting at 2 p.m. Advance registration is required.
Children’s programming
LEGO Weekends: Are open for ages four and up during the library’s regular business hours on Saturdays and Sundays. In this self-guided activity in the Children’s Department, children can have fun building wild LEGO creations that they’re invited to put on display.
Children’s Storytime programs run on separate days in the Children’s Program Room starting at 10:30 a.m. Here, young readers can enjoy a short story, rhymes, and songs as caregivers learn ways to improve early childhood literacy.
• Preschool Storytime: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10, and 17
• Daycare Storytime: Monday, Dec. 1, 8, and 15
Be sure to check out TumbleBooks for Kids, featuring an online collection of animated, talking picture books to teach children the joys of reading in the Digital Library.
Standalone events
• Paper Moon Writing Collective: Paper Moon is a monthly gathering for writers and creatives of all levels, offering guided prompts, quiet writing time, and optional sharing in a supportive, judgment-free space. Each session is led by Kara and explores a different theme on the first Tuesday
of each month. For more information, email PaperMoonWritingCollective@gmail.com.
• Free library concert: The Regina Symphony Chamber Players are presenting a free, all-ages concert at the library on Thursday, Dec. 4, starting at 4 p.m. Featuring twelve principal musicians from the Regina Symphony Orchestra, this chamber ensemble brings a rich mix of instruments and musical styles performed by artists who also serve as teachers, composers, and soloists in the community.
• Come and Go Play: Enjoy a story, sensory activities, play, and meet new people in the Children’s Program Room from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, 11, and 18. The free event is a drop-in program and you can come and go as you please.
• Take ‘n’ Make Christmas Crafts: Starting Dec. 10, children ages four to 12 can pick up a Take ’n’ Make Christmas craft kit at the Children’s Circulation desk, with one kit per child and extra extension activities available while supplies last.
• Christmas slime balls: Guests can join Miss A for a few holiday stories and to make “a fun ornament with slime inside” in the Children’s Program Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
• Elf on the Library Shelf: The Library Elf returns Dec. 1, hiding in a new spot each day. Children ages 12 and under can find him during each visit and enter a draw for a fun prize.
• Ugly Sweater Colouring Contest: Children ages four to 12 can design their own “ugly sweater” using a colouring template from the library (or printed at home) and return it to the MJPL by Dec. 31 for a chance to win a prize.
Youth
programming
The library’s Teen Anime+ Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 to watch anime, read manga, draw, chat, and eat Asian snacks. Anyone ages 12 to 19 is welcome to attend in the library’s theatre, and yes — cosplay is welcome.
• Next Anime+ meeting: There is no December meeting scheduled
The Teen Arts & Crafts program takes place once a month for youth ages 12 to 19 and runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room. The program features art, crafts, snacks, and the chance to meet new friends.
• Present wrapping and tag decorating: Wednesday, Dec. 17
The Teen Gamers program provides an evening of video, card, and board games for youth ages 12 to 19. The program is held once a month in the Herb Taylor Room with snacks provided from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and no registration is required.
Continued on next page
The Rook Room is a new program at the library that replaces the previous chess club partnership, offering a fresh, staff-led approach to chess in a welcoming setting.
Photo by: Moose Jaw Public Library
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.
Palpable
The English language has many examples of words that have moved from a concrete literal meaning into figurative use. People use words with both kinds of meanings constantly. You can literally close the door to a room and you can figuratively close the door to further discussion. If I told you that I picked up a little Greek while touring in Greece, is that literal or figurative? Definitions regularly list both a literal meaning, often physical, and a figurative meaning, often nonphysical. Sometimes the literal and figurative meanings can be contrary.
Palpable was used in Middle English (1300s) to imply capable of being touched or felt. Palpable was derived from the Latin palpabilis, from the verb palpare, meaning to stroke or caress. The nurse had sensitive hands which enabled her to easily detect a palpable pulse.
Palpable expanded over the centuries to now describe things that cannot be touched but are still easy
to perceive as if they could be handled. As she walked into the room she could sense a palpable tension in the air. The attraction between the two of them was palpable to all.
Perceptible, sensible, tangible, appreciable, ponderable, and palpable all imply a comprehension of something real or sensed.
Perceptible applies to what can be discerned by the senses, often to a minimal extent. There was a perceptible difference in the smell of the cheese to a discriminating nose.
Sensible suggests whatever is clearly apprehended through the senses or impresses itself strongly on the mind. The polar vortex, initiating an abrupt change in the weather, brought about a sensible drop in temperature, rather than the drastic drop that was predicted.
Tangible means what is capable of being handled or grasped both physically and mentally. As far as I am concerned, there is no tangible evidence of aliens visiting Earth.
Appreciable indicates what is distinctly discernible by the senses or what is definitely measurable. The increase in OAS payments starting in January 2026 is not an appreciable increase in the monthly cheque.
Ponderable denotes having a definite measurable weight or importance. Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has exerted a ponderable influence on world events with his deals and tariffs.
Palpable applies either to what has physical substance or to what is obvious and unmistakable. I acquired a severe sunburn this past summer which led to a palpable redness on the tip of my nose that is just now starting to disappear.
Julio received the FIT kit from the Saskatchewan Health Authority about six months ago. He diligently proceeded according to the instructions and submitted the sample at the clinic. About one week later he was
notified that there was some blood in the results and he should see his doctor. The doctor recommended a visit to the specialist to determine what should happen next. After two months Julio was sitting in the surgeon’s office and received the news that a procedure was scheduled for two months from the day. The nodules that were discovered were palpable but easily removed. Samples were sent for a biopsy test, just to make sure that there were no concerns about cancer. A phone call a few weeks later confirmed no cancer and Julio experienced palpable relief at this news.
On a foggy evening just prior to Halloween, someone rang our doorbell but quickly disappeared before we could answer the door. All of sudden a face appeared at one of the windows. Our granddaughter screamed. We wondered what was going on. Was it real? There was a palpable fear in the house that one could almost taste. I ran outside and looked for the perpetrator. I saw nothing. The next morning there were footsteps in the soft earth of the flower bed, a palpable sign of someone, not an imaginary trickster. We had palpable relief that it was not ghosts or spirits, as our granddaughter imagined, but it was unnerving to experience a prank that caused her a few nights of bad dreams.
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.
Celebrate the season with December programs at the Moose Jaw Public Library, continued
• Next Teen Gamers meeting: Wednesday, Dec. 10
Libby
Patrons can browse a collection of eBooks with no waitlist on the Libby app, available with a valid library card.
Hoopla
Hoopla’s “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime” collection lets you stream a cozy lineup of classic Lifetime Christmas movies.
Kanopy
This month’s Kanopy feature highlights a festive “Home Viewing for the Holidays” playlist filled with classic seasonal films and TV selections perfect for unwinding and enjoying with the whole family.
Study Space: The public library has plenty of open space for students to study, work in small groups, or just hang out. This includes free Wi-Fi access and staff who can help students access a wide variety of library resources.
The Rook Room: The public library concluded its partnership with the Moose Jaw Chess Club at the end of November, replacing it with a staff-led program called “The Rook Room.” The library described the program as a revamped, “new and improved chess club.” The program is held in the Reading Room and is free to attend on a drop-in basis.
• Next ‘Rook Room’ meeting: Saturday, Dec. 6
Magic: The Gathering (MTG): The public library has concluded its MTG program, citing an overall decline in attendance. Former participants can reach out to Sanctuary Games at 11 River Street West by calling 306-691-2025 for an alternative venue.
Tech Time: Tech Time offers one-on-one instruction with modern electronic devices. Call the library to book a session.
Library of Things
The MJPL offers more than just books, including a telescope kit, radon testing kit, SaskBats bat detector kit, C-Pen Readers for patrons with print-reading barriers, and more through its Library of Things collection. Ask a staff member at the front desk for more information. French-language programs
L’heure du conte is a French-language program for ages five and under with their caregivers. The program is held in the Children’s Program Room starting at 10:30 a.m.
• L’heure du conte: Saturday, Dec. 6
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent and can be reached at MooseJawLibrary. ca, by calling 306-692-2787, or by emailing Ask@ MJLibrary.ca. Check the library’s Facebook page for updates, as programs may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Refreshing Moments A Devotional by
Alex Allan
Printed with Permission
Pastor Alex Allan is a Moose Jaw retired credentialed minister in the Church of God in Western Canada and has served as a hospital chaplain and is an experienced pastoral counsellor. He has an extensive background in communications, having worked in radio, television and print media.
Expressing True Love
1 Corinthians 13 is often referred to as the love chapter in the Bible.
I was reminded the other day of the importance of love – God’s love. So often people use ‘love’ as a means to get something. As Christians, our love must express the love of Christ.
This is called agape love. It is sacrificial love that is unconditional.
Just before writing the love chapter, the Apostle Paul talked about the various gifts people have in the church, and yet he says he will show us a more excellent way to serve. And that is the way of true love. A love that is given with no strings attached.
In a recent Bible study, someone pointed out it is easy to do the loving things for others, but the real challenge is doing it with sincere love.
1 Corinthians 13: 3 If I gave everything I have to the poor and even sacrificed my body, I could boast about it; but if I didn’t love others, I would have gained nothing
Let me tell you about two friends who shared an unconditional love. George and Glen met when they were eight years old. Now in their 80s, George was in a hospital bed nearing the end of his life, and though George was sleeping, Glen sat by George keeping watch over his life-long friend. Glen wasn’t expecting anything from
George, just showing his love for a true friend by staying quietly at the bedside.
It reminds me of God’s unconditional love. The Bible teaches that God loved the world so much that He provided a way for people to be restored into a right relationship with Him through His Son Jesus Christ.
The Bible teaches we cannot work our way to God, but just have to accept His love and grace when it comes to salvation.
I like how Justin Holcomb at Christianity.com defines grace. “It is the love of God shown to the unlovely, the peace of God given to the restless, the unmerited favor of God”.
Non-alcoholic beverages in Canada are in a growing trend as consumers choose healthier drinks.
A study shows increased purchases of bottled water, energy/sports drinks, meal replacement drinks and tomato juice between 2010 and 2023.
Losing market share were carbonated beverages, ready to drink juices and citrus juices.
The non-alcoholic beverage sector accounts for five cents of every dollar of activity in Canada, says a study by the Conference Board of Canada.
The sector accounted for 16,376 direct jobs and $1.5 billion wages in 2024 and supported another 29,000 jobs.
Half the jobs are in Ontario with Quebec and Brit-
ish Columbia also heavy in the sector. Saskatchewan had only 74 jobs in the sector.
The sector faces cost squeeze and supply chain uncertainty since most of the packaging inputs are imported and affected by trade wars.
The study recommends buying more Canadian packaging, innovation and promoting the sector to improve operations.
The sector provided $2.3 billon in tax revenues in 2023 with 37 per cent in personal income taxes and 29 per cent from sales taxes.
Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
by humbling ourselves and sharing God’s love with the unlove- ly, the restless and those who feel unworthy of being loved. Let us be willing to take the time to show how much we really care for others by extending Christ’s love to them unconditionally.
The excerpt above was extracted from a devotional book that was written to encourage individuals in their daily walk with Christ to provide practical guidance and encouragement. If you are interested in purchasing the book, please email RefreshingMoments@ outlook.com
Penny Baba (née Symenuk) May 1959 - November 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Penny Baba, surrounded by love, on November 23, 2025 at the age of 66. She fought a hard and courageous battle against lung cancer.
Penny recently lost her husband of 45 years, Jim. Penny was a loving and proud mother to Jamie (Chris), Mitch (Lianna) and Melani (Steven). She was the cherished Grandma to Violet, Emma, Hayden, Quinn and Chloe - the loves of her life.
Penny is the daughter of Pete and Viola Symenuk and daughter-in-law to Farris and Norma Baba. Sister to Bonnie (Brad), Rick, Tomi (Bobbi) and sister-in-law to Kathy (Marcel), Gary (Nicole) and Tim (Susan). Niece to Sheryl and Garry. Auntie Pen to her nieces and nephewsNickole, Darroll, Colleen, Tyson, Jenna, Paisly, Travis, Robyn, Steph, Brooklyn, Kaitlin, Ashlynn. Life-long best friend to Sherry and Marty. Dearly loved cousin and friend to many.
Penny was born and raised in Saskatchewan, a place she always held close to her heart. She held many different jobs throughout her lifetime but was most proud of her 25 years as a hospital food service attendant.
Penny had many hobbies - there wasn’t a craft she didn’t attempt. She really loved to paint, sew and crochet and her family has many beautiful handmade items from her to hold close and remember her by. She also loved to bake - everyone especially loved her Smartie cookies and pumpkin muffins. Her other favourite hobby was shopping and she loved to buy new unique gadgets but most of all loved buying gifts and spoiling her kids and grandkids - and pets too (she was the best treat giver).
We will always remember her warm and comforting ways. She was always there for her family and friends. No matter what was going on - spending time with her family was always her priority. She loved with her whole heart and everyone that was lucky enough to be loved by her felt it.
Honouring her wishes, there will not be a formal service. Instead, her family will find a special way to honour her at a later date, holding close the love and memories she leaves behind.
Teresa's family
Clara Bodie
With deep love and gratitude for her long life, the family of Clara Mae Bodie announces her peaceful passing on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the age of 96.
Clara was born on October 31, 1929. She spent the majority of her life in Palmer, Saskatchewan, a community she cherished dearly. In 1997, she and her husband Burt moved to Moose Jaw, where she lived for the remainder of her days.
Clara is reunited in heaven with her beloved husband, Burt and their children Teresa (Jim) Connors, Robert Bodie, and Jack Bodie-all of whom she missed deeply.
She leaves behind a legacy of love through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
-Sean (Andrea) Connors and their son Riley Connors
-Angela Connors and her daughter Tara Rousell
Robert's family
-Trevor (Tabatha) Bodie and their children, Brendan, Rin, and Ariana Bodie
-Kelly (Dale) Reed and their daughters, Haylee and Chloe Reed
Clara was a devoted Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Aunt and Friend. Her life revolved around family, and nothing brought her more joy than time spent together-whether fishing, camping, or travelling. She had a special love for flowers and owls, and she was known for always being well dressed, proper, graceful, and unfailing kind. Her strength, resilience, and gentle spirit touched all who knew her.
A funeral service was held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 2:00 pm at Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Funeral Chapel in Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan. Clara was laid to rest beside her husband Burt, at the Geneva Cemetery at Palmer, Saskatchewan
Clara's family would like to thank all those who shared in her life and memories. Her kindness, warmth, and unwavering love will be forever cherished.
Arrangements entrusted to Piche Hawkins Gondin Funeral Chapels Assiniboia Gravelbourg
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW
If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com
Town N country Mall Events
Late Night Shopping until December 19 Thursday and Friday evenings open until 8pm Black Friday Sales Stores throughout the mall will be having some good deals, there will also be local vendors throughout the hallways.
W.J.Jones & Son Funeral Home 28th Annual Mourning Star Ceremony for those experiencing Grief this Christmas in the serenity of the Chapel on December 4 from 6:3-7pm Gathering Music and 7pm Ceremony. This year’s theme is Glimmer of Hope. Gather with others who understand the challenge grief’s ache at Christmas. Through music, message, mementos and the gentle afterglow of love’s light, we will gather to let “HOPE” speak to us. Joya Johnston will offer the gift of her musical talents to set the atmosphere of serenity.
Heritage Singers Concert on Sunday, December 7th at 2:30 pm in the First Baptist Church (1010 Main St. N.) Admission $5. Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling Club invites everyone to drop in on Tuesday & Thursdays @10am for lawn bowling on turf @Yara Centre. All abilities and ages included for recreation, fitness and FUN. (Competitive option also available). (Yara Centre fees only) for info call 306-631-8160.
Women’s Choir…Women over 50 years of age who are interested in joining the Heritage Singers are invited to contact Brenda Johnson by text or phone 306-631-8095 for more details.
Scottish Country Dancing has resumed at 7 pm on Thursdays @Timothy Eaton’s Centre, 510 Main St. N. No partner required. Ages 8 and up including grandparents. Contact: Val, 306-6305790
White Heather Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw looking for new players ages eight and older. New players will have the opportunity to try out drum sticks on pads and practice chanters with the instructors and will be introduced to some of the children already members of the band. Contact Michelle Carline at <mcarline@hotmail.com>
The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. At Zion church from Sept to May. The Moose Jaw Stamp Club has resumed meeting the second and fourth Wednesday nights of the month at 7:00pm at the Lindale School staff room. For information call 306-693-5705. Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: January, February, March, April and May. Meetings are held at Hillcrest Apostolic Church, Moose Jaw. Call or text 306 756 2819 Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. 20252026 Program on Monday nights from 7-9 pm at St. Margaret’s School, 449 5Th Ave NE. Dance in square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles, or doubles welcome!
Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month status to take place on the third Friday of each month Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well: -Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord.
Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw NarAnon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.
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 email-
ing nsetter@moosejawlibrary.ca
Movie club
The library’s movie club meets twice monthly to watch a film and engage in a short discussion starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.
• Kiss Kiss Bang Bang: Show date: Monday, Dec. 8
• Carol: Show date: Monday, Dec. 22
The library’s Documentary Night showcases documentary films that rarely hit theatres and takes place on the last Thursday of each month starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre.
• Kedi: Show date: Thursday, Dec. 18
A few movie matinees will be screened for audiences of all ages in the library’s theatre starting at 2:30 p.m. Admission is free, and everyone’s welcome.
• The Muppet Christmas Carol: Show date: Saturday, Dec. 13 (rated G)
• The Holdovers: Show date: Saturday, Dec. 27 (rated 14A)
Maker nights
Maker nights provide an evening dedicated to learning and creating with others. Register by calling 306-692-2787. The program runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room for ages 13 and up.
• Maker night: Guests will make circuit holiday cards on Monday, Dec. 15. Advance registration is required.
• Teen Makers: Guests will make holiday cards on Wednesday, Dec. 3
• Maker Saturdays: Guests will write Scratch code on Saturday, Dec. 20, starting at 2 p.m. Advance registration is required.
Children’s programming
LEGO Weekends: Are open for ages four and up during the library’s regular business hours on Saturdays and Sundays. In this self-guided activity in the Children’s Department, children can have fun building wild LEGO creations that they’re invited to put on display.
Children’s Storytime programs run on separate days in the Children’s Program Room starting at 10:30 a.m. Here, young readers can enjoy a short story, rhymes, and songs as caregivers learn ways to improve early childhood literacy.
• Preschool Storytime: Wednesday, Dec. 3, 10, and 17
• Daycare Storytime: Monday, Dec. 1, 8, and 15
Standalone events
• Paper Moon Writing Collective: Paper Moon is a monthly gathering for writers and creatives of all levels, offering guided prompts, quiet writing time, and optional sharing in a supportive, judgment-free space. Each session is on the first Tuesday of each month. For more information, email PaperMoonWritingCollective@gmail.com
• Free library concert: The Regina Symphony Chamber Players are presenting a free, all-ages concert at the library on Thursday, Dec. 4, starting at 4 p.m.
• Come and Go Play: Enjoy a story, sensory activities, play, and meet new people in the Children’s Program Room from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, 11, and 18. The free event is a drop-in program and you can come and go as you please.
• Take ‘n’ Make Christmas Crafts: Starting Dec. 10, children ages four to 12 can pick up a Take ’n’ Make Christmas craft kit at the Children’s Circulation desk, with one kit per child and extra extension activities available while supplies last.
• Christmas slime balls: Guests can join Miss A for a few holiday stories and to make “a fun ornament with slime inside” in the Children’s Program Room from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13.
• Elf on the Library Shelf: The Library Elf returns Dec. 1, hiding in a new spot each day. Children ages 12 and under can find him during each visit and enter a draw for a fun prize.
• Ugly Sweater Colouring Contest: Children ages four to 12 can design their own “ugly sweater” using a colouring template from the library (or printed at home) and return it to the MJPL by Dec. 31 for a chance to win a prize.
Youth programming
The library’s Teen Anime+ Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 to watch anime, read manga, draw, chat, and eat Asian snacks. Anyone ages 12 to 19 is welcome to attend in the library’s theatre, and yes — cosplay is welcome.
• Next Anime+ meeting: No December meeting scheduled The Teen Arts & Crafts program takes place once a month for youth ages 12 to 19 and runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room. The program features art, crafts, snacks, and the chance to meet new friends.
• Present wrapping and tag decorating: Wednesday, Dec. 17
The Teen Gamers program provides an evening of video, card, and board games for youth ages 12 to 19. The program is held once a month in the Herb Taylor Room with snacks provided from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and no registration is required. Next Teen Gamers meeting: Wednesday, Dec. 10
The Rook Room: The public library concluded its partnership with the Moose Jaw Chess Club at the end of November, replacing it with a staff-led program called “The Rook Room.”
The library described the program as a revamped, “new and improved chess club.” The program is held in the Reading Room and is free to attend on a drop-in basis. Next ‘Rook Room’ meeting: Saturday, Dec. 6
Magic: The Gathering (MTG): The public library has concluded its MTG program, citing an overall decline in attendance. Former participants can reach out to Sanctuary Games at 11 River Street West by calling 306-691-2025 for an alternative venue. Tech Time: Tech Time offers one-on-one instruction with modern electronic devices. Call the library to book a session.
French-language programs
L’heure du conte is a French-language program for ages five and under with their caregivers. The program is held in the Children’s Program Room starting at 10:30 a.m. L’heure du conte: Saturday, Dec. 6
Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 693 Fairford St W. Contact: 306-692-5453
Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw
Curling Centre – Always looking for spares. Moose Jaw & District Seniors Assoc. Inc. Website – moosejawseniors.ca
For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: mjsenior@ shaw.ca The centre is now open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am – 8pm and Tuesday, Friday 8am – 4pm
Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday & Friday’s 8am4pm
Wood working area – Monday to Friday 8 am – 4 pm
Timothy Eaton Cafe open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.
– 1 p.m.
Cinnamon Buns are on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed.
Billiards open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. as well as Monday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings from 4:30 – 8 p.m.
Quilting – Every Tuesday & Friday 9am to 4pm, Lounge – Friday’s 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.
Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm
Tuesday Cards – 6:30pm
Floor Curling – Fridays @ 1pm
Bingo – Monday afternoons 1:30pm -3:30pm and Wednesday
evenings 6:30pm-8:30pm
Darts – Wednesday’s @ 10am
Consignment Area – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
10am-3pm, Wednesdays 10am-12pm
Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd
Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net
Check them out on Facebook.
Monday: Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am/Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 3:45
Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pm-Pickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pm-Beginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30am-Pickleball/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 Walking8:15am 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 Pickleball1:00pm
December 4 - Christmas Banquet 5:30pm - 6:30pm. Catered by the UPTOWN CAFE $20/person. Advanced tickets
only
December 4 - Social Dance - Leon Ochs, 7:00pm - 10:00pm
Admission - $15/person. Supper and dance $30/person Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@sasktel.net
• Every Monday and Tuesday 1 – 6:30 pm
• Wednesday 12 – 6:30 pm/Smear starts at 12:30 pm
• Thursday 12 – 6:30 pm/Crib starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a friend or sign up for spare
• Friday 1 – 10:00 pm/Shuffleboard starts at 1 pm. Bring a friend and join in!/Pool and darts start at 7 pm.
• Saturday 1 – 6:30 pm/Drop in pool in afternoon. Meat draws start at 4:30 pm - 10 draws, 4 free draws, drink tickets, gift card, 50/50. Everyone Welcome!
FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395
EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play.
FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am
FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting7:00 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 Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM. ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca
Upcoming events
Treaty Timeline: Museum guests are invited to learn about treaty history in Canada by walking along a life-size timeline display, which continues up to Jan. 3, 2026.
A Christmas Long Ago: The event returns to the WDM Moose Jaw on Dec. 6 and 7, offering families a chance to step back into 1910 settler life and explore the holiday traditions of generations past. The program will run at 10 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. on both days.
“Stuff the Superior” food drive: The museum is inviting residents to help fill its 1925 Chevrolet Superior with non-perishable food donations for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. Donations can be dropped off between Dec. 1 and Jan. 4 in the truck bed located in the museum lobby, with donors receiving a special WDM button as a token of thanks. Seek and find
The museum regularly holds seek and find events to encourage interactive learning. The program includes an activity sheet, and visitors search the galleries for clues on interpretive signs or display cases. Check the museum’s website for updates. Snowflake seek and find: Explore the galleries to find nine unique snowflakes hidden beside different artifacts. Use the provided seek and find sheet to record your matches, then submit it when complete. The event will continue throughout December.
Toys and pastimes seek and find: Discover images of historic toys and pastimes that would have been shared during “A Christmas Long Ago” that are hidden throughout the museum’s galleries. The event will continue throughout December. Courses and workshops
The museum offers seasonal educational courses that teach skills ranging from blacksmithing to steam traction-engine operation, with certificates typically awarded upon completion. Upcoming courses: Contact the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306-693-5989 for more information.
K+S Short Line 101
The Short Line 101 has officially concluded its season.. Reminiscence Kits
The museum’s Reminiscence Kits are meant to bring generations together and ignite new friendships through the sharing of memories. These kits, containing everyday artifacts from the 1950s to the 1970s, can be rented by care homes and other organizations for two weeks at a cost of $75, with an additional $25 fee for a one-week extension. Visit WDM.ca/Reminiscence to book your kit.
Teacher resources
Teachers can access a variety of resources, including information packages and field trip arrangements at the WDM. Visit WDM.ca/Moose-Jaw/Learn/For-Teachers for more information. Educational programs: The WDM features several educational opportunities open for booking this school year, including dozens of in-person programs that make an ideal field trip and virtual learning options. For more information, visit WDM.ca. Win a free field trip: Educators and community leaders are invited to enter online at WDM.ca/FieldTripGiveaway for a chance to win one of four field trips, plus $200 to cover the cost of transportation this school year. The contest runs from until Jan. 4, 2026, with winners drawn on Jan. 7, 2026.
306-694-4747
324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK
Derek McRitchie REALTOR® (306) 631-1161
E.G. (Bub) Hill REALTOR® (306) 631-9966
Tanya Minchin REALTOR® (306) 630-6231
Cassie Nichol REALTOR® (306) 631-0691
Justin Hammer REALTOR® (306)684-4266
In photos: Santa Claus Parade returns to downtown Moose Jaw
Main Street was aglow with Christmas spirit on the evening of Nov. 23 as the 15th annual Moose Jaw Kinsmen Santa Claus Parade brought families downtown to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
Residents watched from the sidewalks as a colourful lineup featuring dozens of floats, community groups, and cheerful characters made their way from the Town ‘N’ Country Mall to the Moose Jaw Events Centre. The parade, which began at 6 p.m., once again featured
the long-awaited appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus waving to children from their festively decorated sleigh in a moment that has become a seasonal marker for many families.
The event is organized each year by the Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club along with the support of the Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce and a strong team of volunteers.
“(The Santa Claus Parade) brings cheer and joy to the city (and) it’s for
young and for old,” said parade chair Robert Lane. “It’s just something we’ve always done and we’ve always led the way … for the community.”
To learn more about the Kinsmen Club, visit “Moose Jaw Kinsmen” on Facebook or email MJKinsmen@outlook.com.
Remax of Moose Jaw is pleased to announce that Jacki L’Heureux Mason Realtor ® has joined our office.
Jacki’s community involvement and real estate knowledge will help you feel right at home here.
Whether buying your first home, selling a property or exploring the rental market Jacki can assist you every step of the way.
Connect with Jacki today! cell: 306-690-9949 email: jaxmj15@gmail.com
Holiday support urged as SCRAPS shelters more than 210 cats in care
The Stray Cat Rescue and Protection Society (SCRAPS) Moose Jaw is heading into the holiday season with a full slate of fundraising initiatives as the non-profit continues to care for over 210 cats currently distributed across its foster network.
To host these events, the volunteerrun organization has officially transitioned its Town ‘N’ Country Mall “9 Lives Boutique” into the seasonal “Santa Claws” shop, with Christmas-themed décor now filling the space.
“We flipped it over this last week, so we’re in full décor now and welcoming people to come out, visit our new look, and shop with us,” said SCRAPS spokesperson Anne Marciszyn. “All the money raised from the boutique over the holidays goes directly into the care
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
of our cats and the ones we look after outside.”
With more cats arriving regularly, the need for operational support remains urgent.
“We have over 210 cats currently in our care, so we’re needing lots of support to help them. We have many colonies throughout the city and outlying areas around nearby communities,” she said.
Silent auction and holiday gifts
One key fundraiser is the organization’s Wonderful Winter Silent Auction, running now through Dec. 13, where it will conclude at 3 p.m. The auction features 11 packages displayed in the boutique window, and bids can be placed instore during regular mall hours.
The selection includes locally sourced art, collectibles, specialty household items, and animal-related goods.
“We have a tri-fold room divider that you can put pictures into … a collectible work of art by Gail Adams … a cat scratcher … a scoop-free, selfcleaning litter box … a Japanese tea set … (and more),” Marciszyn said. “People just bid on those, and then the bids get higher until the highest bidder wins.”
Gift-wrapping station
This December, the mall is also hosting a charity gift-wrapping station, and SCRAPS will be among the participating volunteer groups.
“We invite people to come out and bring your Christmas wrapping for us to create some beautiful gifts to share with friends and family,” Marciszyn said.
Dates, shifts, and volunteer schedules will be updated on Facebook at “Scraps – MJ.”
Foster support
SCRAPS remains fully volunteeroperated and relies exclusively on donations, foster placements, and community support.
“We run entirely on volunteers who donate their time. We don’t have a (physical location) for animals except in foster care,” she explained. “So our 210plus cats are all distributed throughout our foster system.”
Marciszyn encouraged residents to support the non-profit through donations of kitten formula, wet and dry cat food, and specialized kitten-grade products, especially as several litters are currently receiving bottle-fed care.
Donations can be dropped off at the
mall storefront during regular hours of operation.
Recycle for SCRAPS
Another option allows donors to support the group through returns at SARCAN via the “Recycle for SCRAPS” program. By taking recyclables to any SARCAN location in the province and entering “SCRAPS” as the drop-and-go code, residents can instantly direct the full deposit refund toward supporting the care of local cats.
For those gifting symbolic contributions rather than physical items, SCRAPS is offering sponsorship certificates for compassionate giving, including sponsored food, medical care, spay-and-neuter contributions, and community-cat support.
Adoption partnerships and thanks
SCRAPS Moose Jaw continues to partner with several adoption satellite locations: Moose Jaw Pet Valu, Pet Valu Lewvan in Regina, Excalibur Cat Café in Regina, and PetSmart Grasslands in Regina.
“They take in many of our cats and kittens and help us find forever homes for them,” Marciszyn said.
She added that the community generosity that sustains SCRAPS has been deeply felt. “We really, really thank everyone for their support, and especially our cat colony caretakers.”
For further information, SCRAPS Moose Jaw can be reached at 306-6849048 or Scraps-MJ@hotmail.com. The “Santa Claws” boutique is located at 1235 Main Street North.
One of the more than 210 cats currently in SCRAPS foster care, benefiting from community donations and volunteer support this holiday season. Photo by: SCRAPS Moose Jaw/Submitted
The seasonal “Santa Claws” storefront inside Town ‘N’ Country Mall, transformed with holiday décor as SCRAPS rolls out its Christmas fundraising initiatives. Photo by: SCRAPS Moose Jaw
