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Volume 19, Issue 1 | Wed., January 7, 2026
Moose Jaw Community Players seek cast, crew for return of ‘Notoriously Moose Jaw’ Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
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Moose Jaw Community Players is inviting residents to step into the city’s past and onto the stage as auditions continue for the return of Notoriously Moose Jaw. The locally written production, which sold out during its original run in 2023, is being revived with new material and a fresh cast, with upcoming auditions scheduled for Jan. 7 and Jan. 10. A first intake was held Jan. 4. This is the second round of producing for this show because of popular demand. The show was written by Joan Stumborg and Debbie Burgher and is structured as a series of short scenes highlighting key historical moments that define Moose Jaw. “Notoriously Moose Jaw (features) 14 different vignettes of significant events that happened to kind of culminate into what Moose Jaw is (today),” Sheward said. “Some of them are fun and silly, and some of them are more serious.” Those scenes range from the flooding in Wakamow Valley to tales of Al Capone, and River Street escapades to the TCA Flight 9-7 collision with a Harvard 3309 in 1954.
Even returning audience members can expect something new this time around. A newly written scene has been added to include the New Year’s Day fire that happened in 2004. “Our group has grown significantly since we did it the first time, so we’re super excited to see what our new members … will bring to the stage,” she said. Auditions are open to everyone, with Sheward emphasizing that Notoriously Moose Jaw is accepting performers aged 15 and up with any level of
experience. “This show in particular has a lot of opportunity for some background roles on stage, like being part of a crowd here or being part of this huge scene there,” she said. Those auditioning are asked to bring a short song excerpt, and the production is also seeking dancers with ballet experience for the newly added scene. Behind-the-scenes help is equally welcome, and auditions should take around 15 minutes or less. Auditions will be held Wednesday, Jan. 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 10 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture on a drop-in basis. Following casting, the production will be performed at a provincial community theatre festival in Regina during Easter break, before opening at the Mae Wilson Theatre on April 23, 24, and 25. For more information, visit “Moose Jaw Community Players” on Facebook or email MooseJawCommunityPlayers@gmail.com. The Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture is located at 217 Main Street North.
PAGE A2 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Firefighters’ safety and public education top concerns for Moose Jaw’s fire chief Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
When Rod Montgomery reflects on his biggest concerns as the fire chief, he points to the safety of his members and educating the public as two areas he always wants to enhance. During a year-end interview, Montgomery said adequate training and modern equipment are the best ways to address safety for members of the Moose Jaw and District Fire Department. Continuing, he said Moose Jaw is “one of the unique fire departments” since it requires additional training to address situations at 15 Wing Airbase. For example, that training must include high-angle/low-slope, confined spaces and hazardous materials awareness. In general, firefighters must be ready to address motor vehicle collisions and understand how to use the Jaws of Life and their self-contained breathing apparatus, while also possessing medical training, which is “a big component, too,” the fire chief said. “So lots of boxes to check off, but there is an expectation that our officers (are) all trained to instructor level (and) that they’ll provide training as well,” Montgomery added. “And then we’ll bring in third-party trainers as well to give us fresh eyes on topics, and hopefully it’s new and exciting stuff.” Asked how often training evolves in firefighting, Montgomery said “the beauty of it is there’s lots of different ways to skin that cat, but you want to do it (in) the safest and best way you can.” Furthermore, what works for one scenario may not work in another, and since so many situations can arise, firefighters must be prepared to adapt. Continuing, the fire chief said mem-
Fire Chief Rod Montgomery. File photo
bers must determine whether to take an offensive or defensive approach — or both — when dealing with fires. If members must save a person’s life, then they will do what they must as safely as they can to achieve that goal. “So you’re willing to risk more if there’s something to be saved,” he remarked. Yet, Montgomery added, if members can’t save a building, then they will take a defensive approach and work to prevent the fire from spreading to other structures. Meanwhile, Montgomery said educating the public is also “a huge part of everything” the fire department does, especially in complying with fire codes. The department has a fire prevention officer who inspects daycares, businesses and other venues, while on-duty crews also inspect similar locations. “… that program was started … as an initiative of mine. We’ve continued it over the years,” he continued. “It’s really well thought out, and we’ve just added to it, so we try to make it better.”
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In 2025, the fire department made sure that crews followed up with businesses, daycares and other locations to ensure that anyone who was not compliant had addressed those issues. “Sometimes maybe in the past, we didn’t have as much rigour that way, so we’re really letting people know that we are coming back,” Montgomery said. “And we (hope) that you will mitigate whatever the issue was.” The fire chief added, “If everybody’s doing what they’re supposed to be doing, the flip side of it is you should see less on the fire-related calls.” Drive safely With more people celebrating with alcoholic beverages during Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Montgomery encouraged residents to find a safe ride home and use alternative transportation — such as public transit — that doesn’t involve driving one’s vehicle. Furthermore, the weather can negatively affect road conditions — as recently happened — and force motorists to slow down and be more aware of their surroundings, he said. “… if you’re going to travel, take those warnings and advisories seriously. No firefighter wants to go to an accident on the highway, especially if someone’s been … injured seriously,” the fire chief continued, noting that residents should take an extra day to travel if necessary. Meanwhile, Montgomery encouraged people to be careful when using extension cords or space heaters. While they can be great tools, he cautioned residents about overloading the cords or placing the heaters close to flammable objects. The future Montgomery said in 2026, he wants to see his members — including himself — continue to improve in their training and the services they offer. Moreover, he wants to ensure the department does better at educating the public — especially with code compliance — and reaches more people with its message of safety. “… it’s always exciting when you move into the new year and the days are getting longer,” he added. “It’s something to look forward to, for sure.”
The past 2025 was a relatively uneventful year for the fire department, Montgomery said, as no major incident stood out in his mind, aside from typical structure or grass fires. “Ideally, you’d like to get to zero, but I don’t know if that’s realistic, so it would say it’s been a good year for 2025,” he remarked. With fourth-quarter statistics unavailable, the fire chief pointed to the third-quarter numbers, which showed that between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30, the fire department responded to 644 incidents, with 20 occurring in rural areas. Of that total, the top categories were false alarms (221 incidents), motor vehicle collisions (81), cooking incidents (76), service calls (64) and fires (62). Furthermore, the department saved $1.9 million worth of structures, while fires destroyed $1.7 million worth of structures, the report said. Asked if the fire department was dealing more with social issues — such as homelessness and poverty — than fires, Montgomery said his agency hadn’t yet reached that point. Instead, he said the police have been handling those larger social disorder problems. “Is there a spinoff? There is. We notice it more in some of the vacant buildings that caught fire in the last couple of years, but not so much this year,” he continued. “So, that’s a good thing.” Meanwhile, during the year’s first three quarters, the agency reached 3,623 children and adults through its public education activities, while it conducted 1,020 inspections/ consultations, 416 in-company inspections, 17 licensed home checks and 13 building plan reviews, said the report. The department also dealt with complaints (eight), fire searches (five), fire drills (three), fire investigations (eight) and fire extinguisher training (two), the report added. Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A3
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A ‘silent killer’: MJFD urges residents to buy carbon monoxide detectors Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Meanwhile, the Moose Jaw and District Fire DeThe recent death of an 11-year-old Regina boy from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a good reminder partment responds to carbon monoxide alarms annuto always have working CO detectors and ensure fuel- ally, although that issue is not as prevalent as other situations to which members respond, said Montgomery. burning appliances are well-maintained. The fire chief provided information showing that Henry Losco died on Dec. 19 due to a carbon monoxide leak in the family’s apartment building in down- in 2023, the department responded to 24 calls about town Regina. His parents told the media that a carbon CO leaks, while that number jumped to 34 in 2024 and, by the end of the third quarter in 2025, it was 37. He monoxide alarm did not go off during the incident. “That’s terrible. I’m sorry to hear that,” Rod Mont- noted that some calls are confirmed leaks, while others gomery, Moose Jaw’s fire chief, said about the boy’s are due to devices’ batteries dying. “So, (it is) a little bit of an increase here as we death. Carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burned fuel move into (2026),” Montgomery said. “But it is a silent — typically natural gas from a furnace, stove or water and … deadly killer. You don’t know it could be ocheater — and is “a silent killer” because there are no curring. “Even given those signs and symptoms, visible signs that it is leaking, he explained. Furthermore, it can build up in a home over time without the people may misunderstand them,” he continued. “And certainly the flu season is happenoccupants being aware. While there are no visible signs, people will experi- ing during the winter months when everybody ence side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, headaches, (has) … their furnaces going again.” Residents with attached garages should fatigue, shortness of breath and even unconsciousness, the fire chief said. Furthermore, CO can build up in the also be wary of CO poisoning, since an idling body over time, while a high enough concentration can eventually cause death. Montgomery acknowledged that these symptoms can mimic the flu, which is a good reason why homeowners, renters and landlords TAXES & SMALL BUSINESS ACCOUNTING should purchase a carbon monoxide detector or a combination smoke/CO detection device. He recommended that a device have a 10-year battery life. Residents should place a carbon monoxide detector on every floor of the building, in or near the furnace and in or near a bedroom, the fire chief noted. Also, since July 2022, provincial legislation has forced homebuilders to install CO devices — either hard-wired or battery-operated — in buildings. One way to prevent CO leaks is to have a plumbing and heating company conduct annual checks on furnaces, heaters and other fuel-burning devices, he added. Or, residents can also maintain their appliances, such as by 19 Athabasca St. W changing filters.
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car can produce exhaust that seeps into the building, Montgomery said. People may also experience brief symptoms when they enter or exit the vehicle, but that should dissipate over time. If people experience symptoms they believe are carbon monoxide poisoning, they should go to the hospital immediately or call 911, the fire chief stated. Moreover, people should understand the beeps coming from their devices, since they could indicate either a leak or a battery problem. “We don’t want (deaths by CO poisoning) to happen to anyone else,” Montgomery added. Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.
PAGE A4 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Editor’s Note As I have gotten older, I have realized that I cannot always accomplish the goals that I set before me and at New Years it’s always another year to reexamine our JOAN RITCHIE - priorities in life Moose Jaw Express and try to mainEDITOR tain a reasonable expectation for ourselves for the upcoming year. As we all know, Rome wasn’t built in a day so some things just take a little more time and effort than we would expect. Nothing seems to come easy. Every January, people swear their year will be different. They announce New Year’s resolutions with confidence, conviction, and usually zero
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
follow-through. And the good news is, I no longer subject myself to failure but try and stay in a reasonable and realistic expectation of what I can accomplish if I put my mind, heart and body into it. But to tell you the truth, I may not quite hit the mark always but if there is a will, there’s a way. The truth is people still try to maintain New Year’s resolutions—but most fail within weeks. Studies regularly show that by mid-February, the majority of people are done. Not because they are lazy, but because they set themselves up for failure right out of the gate expecting too much of themselves. The big news is, if you didn’t have discipline, consistency, or systems on December 31 or even before that, you won’t magically have them on January 1 to fulfill what you expect of yourself. Realistic resolutions start small and are
measurable. “Lose 40 pounds,” “get rich,” or “completely change my life” are vague and overwhelming and for sure none of us will quite get there no matter how hard we try. A better goal is “walk 30 minutes five days a week,” “cut restaurant meals in half,” or “save $200 a month.” Those are doable. They’re boring—but boring works in this case. The biggest thing is to change your daily habits that have already got you in a place you don’t exactly want to be. Accountability also matters. Unfortunately, motivation is unreliable and we all know that because we remember the times we expect our sorry butts to get out of bed at 6am to go exercise for an hour and then the day comes, the morning arises where we would rather sleep in and so goes the journey to the dead-end. Write things down. Track prog-
ress. Tell someone your plan; be accountable. You need to be real and honest with the only person that matters in this situation and that’s you. Now for the ridiculous resolutions—the ones that sound impressive but are basically unattainable. Things like “I’m never eating sugar again,” “I’m waking up at 5 a.m. every day forever,” “I’ll go to the gym twice a day,” or “I’ll completely eliminate stress from my life.” These aren’t goals; they’re fantasies. Life happens. People get sick, tired, busy, bored, and distracted. When goals don’t allow for reality, people quit entirely instead of adjusting. The skinny on the subject is that If you want real change, aim lower, be consistent, build systems, and stop lying to yourself about what you’ll actually do. That’s how things get done.
‘Christmas Spirit for Seniors’ delivers record 546 gifts across Moose Jaw Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A record 546 seniors in care homes across Moose Jaw received a Christmas gift this year through the “Christmas Spirit for Seniors” campaign, marking the largest turnout since the community-driven initiative began nearly a decade ago. Led by organizer Ashley Armstrong, the annual campaign focuses on ensuring seniors in local care homes receive a present, particularly those who may not have family or visitors during the holidays. “It was incredible,” Armstrong said about this year’s campaign. “There were 546 seniors who all received a gift.” The total marks a significant increase over previous years and represents the largest campaign to date, with Armstrong estimating participation rose by roughly 120 seniors compared to past efforts. Gifts were collected through the now-familiar wish-tag system, with handwritten tags placed on a dedicated Christmas tree at Sahara Spa. Each tag represented a senior resident and included a short list of modest requests, often focused on personal necessities and small comforts. While Armstrong said feedback from seniors is kept intentionally anonymous, she noted the consistent message from care homes remains positive.
Ashley Armstrong (seventh from left) stands with volunteers at Providence Place during delivery day for the Christmas Spirit for Seniors campaign. Photo by: Christmas Spirit for Seniors/Facebook
“We still try and keep it anonymous, so our group just delivers to the homes and we let them decide how they want (the gifts) handed out,” she said. “A lot of (these seniors) just know that there’s a group that comes in and (delivers a gift) every Christmas.” Armstrong said the growth of the program likely reflects a deeper understanding within the community of the realities many seniors face during the holidays. “I think people are just hearing about it and understanding what it is,” she opined, adding that the program’s scope has also increased this year to in-
clude all possible senior homes. “When it first started, the program was just to help those who wouldn’t have anybody (to buy them a present). I think the reality is that most seniors in (care homes) don’t have anybody at Christmas, so we’re vying for everybody now.” Delivery day itself came with a few challenges this year, as an entirely new team of volunteers worked through extreme cold to ensure gifts reached their destinations in time for Christmas. “It was -35 Celsius that morning with the wind chill,” Armstrong recalled. “As you can imagine, we were trying to unload 546 gifts from Sahara Spa into ve-
hicles and organize everything.” Despite the conditions, Armstrong said the response was nothing short of inspiring. “This was a brand new group helping me. They (volunteers) had no idea (about the required logistics),” she said. “They braved the cold and they didn’t complain. They just did their thing.” Support this year included volunteers from Moose Jaw Search and Rescue and members of the Kinsmen Club, many of whom, Armstrong said, were struck by the scale and impact of the effort once they saw it firsthand. “They all actually offered to do it again,” she said. “One of the comments one of the guys kept making is ‘Oh my gosh, I didn’t realize how many people this affected.’” The Christmas Spirit for Seniors campaign was originally created in memory of Armstrong’s brother, Craig Althouse, and continues to honour his love for seniors through simple, human moments of connection. “I was quite happy to know that everybody had a gift that day,” Armstrong said. To learn more, visit the “Christmas Spirit for seniors” Facebook page.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A5
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Organizers seek sponsorships for 24th annual first responder conference Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A Moose Jaw–based non-profit is seeking financial and in-kind sponsorships to ensure a long-running first responder training conference can proceed as planned later this month. The South Saskatchewan First Responder Conference Committee is preparing to host its 24th annual Emergency Medical Practitioner Development and Recertification weekend from Jan. 23 to 25, but organizers said community support is essential to covering the cost of the three-day event. The committee has set a fundraising goal of $50,000 to offset venue, equipment, and programming expenses. “These (are) dedicated volunteers who are not paid for their efforts and (it) often costs them to respond,” an official statement reads. “To help offset the cost of this development weekend, we are actively looking (for) corporate sponsorships.” First launched in 2000, the conference brings Volunteer Medical First Responders (VMFRs), Emergency Medical Responders, and paramedics from across Saskatchewan to Moose Jaw for mandatory training, skills refreshers, and professional development. Annual
attendance has steadily grown to nearly 200 responders since the launch. Across the province, more than 1,200 VMFRs respond to an estimated 7,000 calls each year, according to an official release, often arriving on scene within minutes to assist with emergencies until ambulance services arrive. “VMFRs are truly dedicated in the community (and) they give freely of themselves in emergency situations,” the release said. “They may show up at a pipeline accident, power pole down, motor vehicle collision, medical crisis, fire standby, or special event first aid stations.” This year’s conference coincides
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with the first year of the provincial Medical First Responder education cycle. Mandatory training must be completed every two years and uploaded to participants’ Better Impact profiles by Nov. 30, 2027. To meet those requirements, responders must attend Session 1, Sessions 4 through 9, and complete N95 fit testing. CPR BLS certification remains mandatory for registration with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, but is not included in the conference. Mandatory sessions cover core competencies such as naloxone administration, airway management, spinal precautions, trauma care, medical emergencies, and patient assessment. N95 fit testing will be available by appointment. The conference also features guest speakers and plenary sessions focused on clinical practice and responder wellbeing. Planned speakers include Donna Milo, Ray Francis, Jack Rennie, and Tim Hillier, with topics ranging from peer support and mental health to responder error, lung sound recognition, and EMS unpredictability. Several sessions are open to all delegates without separate registration. Late registration now closes at mid-
night on Jan. 8. Regular registration is $200 plus Eventbrite fees, increasing to $220 after that date. While registration fees cover part of the cost, organizers said sponsorships remain vital to keeping the conference accessible. Sponsorship packages range from Bronze to Diamond levels, with recognition provided at conference venues and events. Prize donations, training equipment, and trade show exhibitors are also welcomed. “These groups are worthy of our support,” the statement continued. “We thank you for your contribution to this project.” For more information about sponsorship opportunities, registration, and to access the full conference schedule, visit SSFRCC.org. Sponsorship inquiries can be directed to Chairman@SSFRCC.org and registration-based questions can be sent to Register.SSFRCC@ gmail.com. The conference will take place at the Heritage Inn, located at 1590 Main Street North.
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PAGE A6 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
By Patricia Hanbidge
For Moose Jaw Express
All America Selections – 2026 Winners – Part I When January rolls around, it is with great pleasure I bring to you the most recent AAS winners! All America Selections (AAS) is a non-profit trialing organization that tests new, neverbefore-sold varieties of plants for the home gardener. After a full season of anonymous trialing by volunteer horticultural professionals, only the top garden performers are given the AAS Winner award designation for their superior performance. The AAS Winner label is like a stamp of approval as their mission is to promote new garden varieties with superior garden performance. Their tagline “Tested Nationally and Proven Lo-
cally®” most definitely says it all! AAS is therefore the place to go for the next best thing to guarantee success in your garden. Once or twice each decade there is an AAS Gold Medal Award that honours a breeding breakthrough. Standard AAS National Winner designation recognizes an ornamental or edible that shows significant breeding achievements, and demonstrates superior garden performance compared to other varieties available. Judges also evaluate characteristics such as earliness, taste, disease-resistance, uniqueness and more depending on the species. AAS Regional Winner designation is given to varieties that do not perform exceptionally in all regions but in specific regions of North America. certain regions are named AAS Regional Winners. The AAS Winners offer gardeners reliable new varieties of plants to grow in your garden. The 2025 winners will be available for purchase for the gardening season as supply becomes available. It is sometimes difficult to get the seed or the plants desired when the winners are just announced but if you go to the All America Selections website, they list the seed houses that sell seed of the winning plants. The url is https://all-
americaselections.org/buy-winners/ Basil Treviso is an outstanding basil to grow in any kitchen garden. It is a compact but highly branched plant that stays tender for a longer time, maintaining leaf quality late into the season. It is vigouus, has good heat tolerance and is slow to flower so is a high-performing selection to grow. There is a pole bean that I plan to grow as Bean, pole Majesty is an outstanding purple pole bean with high yield and superior quality. The dark, dense foliage is resistant to insect damage and recovers quickly from summer heat stress. The beans are delicious and have a sweet, tender, non-bitter texture that can be harvested all season long. Kale Rubybor F1 is a dual-purpose kale that is beautiful and edible. With deep purple foliage and a compact habit, it works well in containers or beds. It is high yielding and exceptionally tender with no bitterness, so we can enjoy
this plant that is suited for both landscape and dinner! Squash, winter Butter Lamp F1 is a mini, pumpkin-shaped butternut squash that delivers both charm and performance. The strong plants are resistant to powdery mildew, heat and insect pressures and it matures early into uniform fruits with rich, yellow flesh. The last edible winner is Tomato BadaBing! F1 which is a large cherry (almost cocktail-sized) tomato that produces early-seasn tomatoes with outstanding flavor and crack-resistant fruit. It grows only up to about 40 inches (about 1 metre) so fits well in containers or in your garden. Watch for the next article which will share more of the 2026 AAS Winners! 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?
Mad Greek’s ‘12 Days of Christmas’ fundraiser raises $1,500 for local families Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A holiday tradition built on gratitude and quiet generosity wrapped up on a high note this December, as The Mad Greek Restaurant completed its annual “12 Days of Christmas” fundraiser with a $1,500 donation to Moose Jaw Family Services (MJFS). The fundraiser, which ran from Dec. 5 to 16, 2025, marked the third year owner John Iatridis has invited the community to support local families through a seasonal promotion tied to select menu items. Proceeds from ribs, pizza, and chicken souvlaki sold during the campaign were directed toward the agency, with Iatridis later topping up the total to reach the final donation amount. “We raised (part of the total) and then we topped it up,” he said. “We donated $1,500 to them.” While the dollar amount itself reflects steady growth since the fundraiser began, Iatridis said the broader meaning
of the initiative goes beyond numbers. Each year, he said, the campaign continues to trend upward. The fundraiser has become a familiar December tradition, though Iatridis said he does not actively seek out feedback or recognition for the effort. “I honestly don’t really look for (any feedback),” he said. “I know we had some people — even just some of our regulars — say they were happy that we do that.” He did notice visible support from the recipient non-profit itself during the campaign. “I saw people from MJFS come down and get a bite to eat to support it,” he said. “Usually, with stuff like this, we get a lot of support from almost everybody.” For Iatridis, the fundraiser remains rooted in appreciation — both for the community that supports his business
The Mad Greek Restaurant’s annual “12 Days of Christmas” fundraiser raised $1,500 for Moose Jaw Family Services, supporting families in Moose Jaw during the holiday season. Photo by: I ate at The Mad Greek/Facebook
year-round and for the circumstances that allow him to give back. “We’re thankful. Without our customers, obviously there wouldn’t be anything to give,” he said. “We were in a position where we were able to (give back) and we were lucky to be in that position.”
That sense of perspective becomes especially important during the holiday season, he added, when financial strain can affect families in ways that are not always visible. “Christmas (can be tough on) a lot of people. You might have an image of someone who just doesn’t have (much), but it could be families with a lot of financial pressure,” Iatridis said. “I can’t imagine thinking that I’m not going to be able to get anything for my little girls for Christmas. There are all kinds of situations … we just try to keep that in mind, be thankful, and help out those who we can.” The Mad Greek restaurant is located at 925 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-693-4333. To learn more about MJFS, visit MJFamilyServices.ca or call 306-6948133. Moose Jaw Family Services is located at 200 Main Street South.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A7
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Age-Friendly Moose Jaw highlights ongoing programs for older residents Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
With winter settling in and routines shifting indoors, Age-Friendly Moose Jaw is reminding older residents that two of its programs remain active in the coming months, offering opportunities for both social connection and practical support. One initiative invites seniors to gather over shared literary interests, while another focuses on something far more logistical but equally essential: getting around the city safely and affordably. The monthly Book Talk program, delivered by Age-Friendly Moose Jaw in partnership with the Moose Jaw Public Library, Saskatchewan Seniors’ Mechanism, and the Moose Jaw and District Senior Citizens Association, continues through February 2026. Held on the second Thursday of each month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., the free sessions take place in the Timothy Eaton Centre lounge and are designed as relaxed, come-and-go conversations centred on reading. “Isolation can be a big factor for older adults in our community, and programs like this really help bring them
together so they don’t feel so isolated,” said Sky Klein, older adult program co-ordinator with AgeFriendly. Each session highlights a different genre, including historical fiction, nonfiction, mystery, and classics. Participants are encouraged to bring any book that fits the month’s theme and share recommendations. “(You can bring) any book that would be associated with the genre (for that month),” Klein said. “Hopefully you can get other people to read your favourite historical fiction (book), and you might find some new (books) that you would like to read as well.” The program is guided by James Miller, a library technician with the Moose Jaw Public Library, and does not require registration. Klein recommends arriving five to 10 minutes early to allow time for introductions, noting the lounge can accommodate up to 40 guests.
“Honestly, I love reading. I’ve been a very big reader my whole life, so I’m really excited to go in and see what kind of books everybody has been reading,” Klein said. “I’m always up for a good recommendation.” Alongside Book Talk, Age-Friendly Moose Jaw continues to advance its transportation pilot project, which launched in August and runs through Dec. 31. The initiative is aimed at helping adults aged 55 and older maintain independence by reducing transportation barriers. Through a partnership with Booker Rides, a Yorkton-based ride-sharing service now operating in Moose Jaw, eligible participants can access discounted — and currently grant-covered — rides. The project also continues to test a community car-share vehicle provided by the Regina Car Share Co-operative. “Booker Rides has agreed to partner with our pilot project until Dec. 31 to offer discounted ride rates to participants … who are members of those three organizations. Through our grant dollars, we will be able to cover the cost of those
rides,” said Rom Jukes, a member of the Age-Friendly Moose Jaw Committee. Robbie Gamble, community connector with Age-Friendly Moose Jaw, said transportation remains one of the most common challenges raised by older adults. “The referrals that I receive are very often around housing, food, and transportation, and that’s why Age-Friendly has pursued this,” Gamble said. “(Transportation) is where we find the biggest gap … to be addressed.” To participate in the transportation pilot, seniors must hold a membership with one of the partner organizations and can book rides by calling 306-6903900. Booker Rides trips may also be arranged through the app or by phone for those who prefer assistance. No registration is required for Book Talk sessions. The Timothy Eaton Centre is located at 510 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-694-4223. More information about Age-Friendly Moose Jaw is available at AgeFriendlySK.ca and AgeFriendlyMJ.Wordpress. com.
Moose Jaws Support services for seniors is committed to providing quality outreach services for seniors in our community
Please note that our office and services will be temporarily closed for the month of January as we undergo an organizational restructuring following the conclusion of our grant funding.
Or to contact us by phone 306.692.2242 or email MJSSRonda@gmail.com
This transition period will allow us to strengthen our programs, onboard new staff and volunteers, and prepare for the next phase of service delivery.
tion. Please contact us for an appointment.
We encourage community members to visit our website SCWW.CA for information and updates.
We appreciate your patience and continued support. And look forward to hear-
We are now taking appointments for February for housecleaning and transporta-
ing from you soon.
PAGE A8 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Moose Jaw embraces holiday spirit as CPKC Holiday Train raises $13K for food bank Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Despite frigid winter temperatures hovering around -18 C, dozens of residents bundled up to attend the live concert at the brightly lit CPKC Holiday Train as it rolled into Moose Jaw to raise funds for the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank on the evening of Dec. 20. The train made its downtown stop along Manitoba Street West for a 30-minute performance from 8 to 8:30 p.m., as attendees gathered trackside to take in the atmosphere that has become a hallmark of the event. As in past years, the Holiday Train stop doubled as a fundraiser for the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, with donations collected both in cash and non-perishable food items. Organizers confirmed the evening resulted in $468 in on-site monetary donations from attendees, along with a $13,000 cheque presented through the Holiday Train program. In addition, 283 pounds of food was collected during the event. Speaking to the crowd during a brief presentation, a representative shared a message of thanks. “I would like to thank the Moose Jaw Co-op for doing such a good job on the ‘Good Buy to Hunger’ campaign. I’d also like to thank the musicians for coming out and playing with us tonight. Most of all, I’d like to thank all of you for coming out and supporting your local food bank. Thank you so much. Merry Christmas.” Another speaker highlighted the role of local support. “I just want to say thank you for coming out tonight, and for all those businesses and the Moose Jaw Co-op and everyone who lives here that helped
Photos by: Aaron Walker
… you raised over 2,500 bags (of food) for the food bank.” For more than 25 years, the Holiday Train has combined live music with charitable giving in communities across North America. In Moose Jaw, that tradition continued as residents turned out not only for the concert, but to support neighbours in need during the holiday season. The stop in Moose Jaw featured live performances by LANCO and Tiera Kennedy. LANCO, known for its double-platinum hit Greatest Love Story, has toured extensively across North America and shared stages with artists including Luke Combs and Dierks Bentley. The band’s debut album Hallelujah Nights helped propel it to international recognition, with a new tour scheduled to begin in
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early 2026. Kennedy, appearing on the Holiday Train tour for a second time, is an Alabama-based singer-songwriter and radio host whose work blends traditional country roots with contemporary influences. She recently collaborated
on Cowboy Carter, a Grammy-winning project by Beyoncé, and continues to gain attention as an emerging voice in country music. This year’s tour included more stops than in previous years, with the train travelling across communities in Canada and the United States from Nov. 19 to Dec. 21. Toni Aquino, marketing specialist and event planner with the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, said the organization was grateful for CPKC and the community’s continued support. “We are very grateful for everyone who joined and supported the CPKC Holiday Train. On behalf of the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank, we are truly grateful for everyone who is always supporting our events. Merry Christmas,” she said. For more information, visit “Moose Jaw and District Food Bank” on Facebook or MJFoodBank.org. The Moose Jaw and District Food Bank is located at 270 Fairford Street West and can be reached at 306-692-2911.
Chamber’s Citizen, Group of the Year nominations close Jan. 15 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
The Moose Jaw & District Chamber of Commerce is reminding residents that the deadline to submit nominations for its 2025 Citizen and Group of the Year awards is quickly approaching. The annual awards recognize individuals and groups whose volunteer efforts made a meaningful social or economic impact in Moose Jaw between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2025. Community members are encouraged to nominate neighbours, organizations, teams, and behind-the-scenes contributors who helped strengthen local life over the past year. Winners will be announced on Jan. 27 during the first intermission of the Moose Jaw Warriors game against the Prince Albert Raiders at the Tem-
ple Gardens Centre. Nominations require a minimum 400-word submission explaining the nominee’s impact, with optional supporting materials such as photos, letters of reference, testimonials, or news coverage. Submissions are reviewed by a volunteer jury, with all materials kept confidential. Nomination forms are available at MJChamber.com. The deadline to submit a nomination is Jan. 15. For more information, contact the Chamber office at 306-692-6414. Look for further details on the cover of the Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A9
Community generosity powers Moose Jaw Family Services’ holiday programs Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. (MJFS) is wrapping up its holiday season programming after widespread community support helped provide food, gifts, and essential items to dozens of local families. This Christmas, MJFS created and distributed 90 hampers, including 75 family hampers and 15 individual hampers, extending support beyond its regular client base to additional community members experiencing food insecurity. What began as a food-focused initiative has now grown to include toys and hygiene items, ensuring families could meet both practical and seasonal needs. In addition to its hamper distributions, MJFS hosted its annual “toy store,” welcoming approximately 45 families and allowing parents to select gifts for their children in a supportive, choice-based environment. “Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, this holiday season was full of joy, support, and connection,” the agency shared in a post. “Thanks to this support, children across Moose Jaw had gifts under the tree, and families enjoyed holiday meals complete with a turkey or ham for Christmas supper.” The agency credited the success of its holiday programming to the generosity of local organizations, businesses, and residents who contributed through toy drives, food and hygiene collections, sponsorships, and fundraising efforts. Among the groups recognized by MJFS were CAE Canada and 15 Wing Moose Jaw, whose annual toy drive brought together colleagues to support local children, as well as DMC Limited, which hosted a food and hygiene drive during its Christmas party, collecting
legacy
allowing community generosity to extend well beyond the Christmas season. For more information, visit MJ-
donations from staff, contractors, vendors, and guests for the agency’s Christmas and emergency hamper programs. Additional toy drives were organized by The Wandering Market, Monkey Bars Indoor Playcentre, and Ashdown’s Furniture & Interiors Ltd., with MJFS noting the collective impact of staff, customers, and community members who contributed items intended to bring joy and comfort to children during the holidays. MJFS also acknowledged support from local businesses that contributed financially to the agency during the season, including The Mad Greek Restaurant, which raised $1,500 through its annual “12 Days of Christmas” fundraiser. “We are deeply grateful to everyone who sponsored a hamper, donated food or hygiene items, or contributed gifts. Your generosity ensures that our community can celebrate the season with warmth, care, and dignity,” MJFS shared. “From all of us at MJFS, thank you for helping us make this holiday season brighter for so many families and children.” MJFS said overflow donations from holiday initiatives continue to support its year-round emergency hamper program,
What legacy will you leave
behind
BEHIND?
Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan.
(306) 694-0373
www.mjhf.org
FamilyServices.ca or call 306-694-8133. Moose Jaw Family Services is located at 200 Main Street South.
PAGE A10 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION
THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. JAN 19, 2026.
Moose Jaw’s Catholic school division had 196 classes in the 2025-26 fall semester, with six classes having more than 30 students and 13 classes having fewer than 15 pupils, a report shows. Board trustees received a class size report during a recent meeting. This was the first time division administration presented a report about class sizes, so there is no way to compare the numbers to previous years. Large classes Vanier Collegiate had six classes with more than 30 students, while Science 10/11 and Math Foundations/PreCalculus 10 had 32 students each, the
Holy Trinity had six classes with over 30 students in fall semester, report shows Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
document showed. Furthermore, Math 9, English Language Arts 20/21, ELA B30 and Physical Education 20/30 each had 31 students. These six classes represented 3.06 per cent of total classes that occurred in the fall, the document noted. Small classes Vanier also had the most classes with fewer than 15 students, with nine rooms under that number, said the report. Science 9 had 14 students, while three courses — French Grade 9 careers, French Catholic Studies Grade 9/10 and French Immersion 9/10 — each had 13
students, the document continued. Also, the practical and applied arts survey B20/B30 class had 12 students, the French immersion sciences 30 class and French Catholic Studies 20 class each had 11 pupils, while Math 9 had 10 students and Sciences 9 had seven students, the report noted. At the elementary level, St. Michael School had two kindergarten classes with 12 students each, Our Lady of Hope had a pre-kindergarten class with 13 pupils and Christ the King in Shaunavon had nine kids in kindergarten. These 13 classes represented 6.63 per cent of total classes that occurred in
the fall, the document added. Meanwhile, the data showed that, overall, during the fall semester, there were 19 classes with 24 students, 15 classes with 17 pupils, 14 classes with 22 and 23 students, 13 classes with 25 and 26 pupils, 12 classes with 19 and 27 students, 11 classes with 18 pupils and 10 classes with 30 students. There are also fewer than 10 classrooms that range in size from 29 students to seven pupils, the report added. Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.
Holy Trinity spent $130K more on building upgrades than budgeted, report shows Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
Holy Trinity Catholic School Division spent nearly $130,000 more on building upgrades than expected last year, with the deficit mainly attributed to the École St. Margaret School renovation project. The division spent $617,258 through its preventative maintenance and renewal (PMR) budget during the 2024-25 school year, while its budget was $541,351, leading to an overage of $129,097, a recent board of education report said. In comparison, in 2023-24, the division budgeted $541,351, spent $248,757, and retained $292,594, while in 202223, those numbers were, respectively, $595,078, $369,877 and $225,201. The facilities accountability report explained that funding shortfalls with the St. Margaret capital project “significantly impacted” Holy Trinity’s PMR expenses for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years. “In 2022-23, PMR expenditures associated with the project were capitalized, resulting in the under expenditure. In 2023-24, the PMR was purposely under-expended to offset the funding shortfall for this project in the 2024-25 and 2025-26 fiscal years,” the document
stated. The Ministry of Education approved St. Margaret School for the new minor capital program in March 2022, with a budget of $4 million to right-size and update the school’s interior and exterior, the report said. While the ministry approved revisions of $5 million and $5.5 million, the tender that the school division awarded to C&S Builders was for $6,103,846, while the total estimated cost was $7.05 million, the document continued. Therefore, the estimated shortfall is $1,550,000, which the division funded using current and future PMR money, the report noted. Also, Holy Trinity expects to finish the project by this spring. Overall, between 2021-22 and 2024-25, the division budgeted a total of $2,272,858 in PMR projects and spent $2,083,707, leaving $189,121 in excess funding, the document added. As part of the St. Margaret School renovation project, the division removed six portable classrooms from the site in July 2025, with one unit moved to the division office for storage, while the Moose Jaw contractor took the other five, said the report.
The company was responsible for the permits and relocation costs of all six relocatable units, while the ministry exempted the division from tendering the units for sale due to their physical condition, the document added. This approval helped Holy Trinity avoid paying $70,000 in demolition costs. Meanwhile, Holy Trinity’s overall operational facilities budget — including its PMR — for 2024-25 was below budget by $80,883, the report said. That year, the division budgeted $3,394,091 for operations, while it spent $3,313,208. In comparison, in 2021-22, those numbers were, respectively, $3,511,675 and 3,317,355, with $194,320 in excess funding. Overall, the document noted that from 2021-22 to 2024-25, the facilities department had total budget funding of $13,211,830 and spent $12,266,925, leaving $944,905 unspent, the document continued. “Financial performance for both 2022-23 and 2023-24 was impacted by the funding challenges associated with the École St. Margaret minor capital program,” the report added. Other data
With energy management, Holy Trinity spent $677,072 on electricity, heating fuel, and water and sewer in 2024-25, compared to $676,933 the year before and $684,521 in 2022-23 and $594,104 in 2021-22, said the report. With building usage rates, three schools were overcapacity in 2024-25, including All Saints in Swift Current at 114 per cent (540 students), Sacred Heart at 107 per cent (313 students) and St. Agnes at 119 per cent (348 students), the document stated. However, Sacred Heart closed in June 2025, with those students transferring to the new Our Lady of Hope (OLOH) Elementary School in September. The building usage rate for that school is not reflected in this report but should be in the 2025-26 report. The report added that the joint-use school cost roughly $66.8 million to build, with Holy Trinity’s share being $29.6 million, while the division is already considering asking the ministry for portables for OLOH “in the near future.” Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A11
HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC
Catholic buses transport more students, travel fewer kilometres in Moose Jaw
SCHOOL DIVISION
THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. JAN 19, 2026.
Catholic school buses transported nearly eight-per-cent more students during the 2024-25 school year than in 2021-22, while proficient routing methods reduced the number of daily kilometres travelled by almost five per cent. According to a transportation accountability report that trustees with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division received during their recent meeting, the organization transported 1,187 students from September 2024 to February 2025 and 1,210 pupils from March 2025 to June 2025. These numbers included students in Moose Jaw, rural and urban students in Prairie South, students in Swift Current and students in Shaunavon. In comparison, Holy Trinity transported 1,122 students from September 2021 to February 2022 and 1,145 pupils
Jason G. Antonio - MooseJawToday.com
from March 2022 to June 2022, the report said. Therefore, by June 30, 2025, the division transported 88 more students than in June 2022, an increase of 7.9 per cent. Meanwhile, the average daily distance school buses travelled in Moose Jaw north from September 2024 to February 2025 was 267.6 kilometres and 270 kilometres from March 2025 to June 2025, the document continued. In comparison, from September 2021 to June 2022, the average daily number was 281.3 kilometres. Therefore, by June 30, 2025, the bus fleet travelled 9.6 kilometres fewer than in June 2022, a decrease of roughly 4.59 per cent. Furthermore, buses in Moose Jaw north were full an average of 88.15 per cent of the time from September 2024 to
BIZWORLD
By Ron Walter - For Moose Jaw Express Bizworld’s six favourite stocks gained an average 59.9 per cent during the year, including dividends. Iamgold had the brightest return as most gold stocks did with a 220 per cent hoist to $23.87. The miner operates one mine in each Quebec, Ontario, and Burkina Faso in Africa. The African mine produces around half of the company’s gold and has a four year life left. Iamgold has just acquired two advanced projects with reserves in Quebec to replace the African mine by 2029. Getting those into production is key to future successes. Second highest gainer was financial services Power Corp. that came in with a 73.76 per cent gain. Power Corp’s main assets are Great West Life, Investors Group and a European financial company. Third was Bank of Montreal turning in a 33.72 per cent performance. Next was the oilsands miner Sun-
June 2025 compared to the average of 72.75 per cent from September 2021 to June 2025, the report said. However, the average ride time in Moose Jaw jumped to 29 minutes by June 2025 compared to 26 minutes by June 2022, the document continued. Also, the longest one-way ride time in Moose Jaw was 39 minutes by last June, compared to 27 minutes in June 2022. The report also noted that the average age of the Moose Jaw bus fleet was 8.6 years by June 2025, compared to 5.6 years in June 2022. A deeper look shows that the average age of buses on regular routes is eight years, while the spare fleet is 9.5 years. Meanwhile, one project the transportation department pursued during the 2024-25 school year included improving its dispatch system — it features GPS-
connected live-tracking of vehicles — and installing a radio in its maintenance vehicle, said the report. Furthermore, the division changed its bus maintenance service provider from Legacy in Saskatoon to DD Repair Ltd. in Moose Jaw, while it also posted student conduct rules in all buses so they were visible to the riders. Some ongoing activities include professional development, such as First Aid training; rebuilding the substitute bus driver list; making bus administrative procedures available on all buses; working with Prairie South School Division on a joint transportation initiative for South Hill and rural students; and reviewing potential platforms to improve communications with families. Jason Antonio can be reached at Harvard Media at 306 690-5965.
views and opinions expressed in this article are Favourite six stocks average The those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication. nearly 60 per cent gain
cor gaining 21.2 per cent Gibson International, the oil hander and Moose Jaw refiner, gained 11.97 per cent with more than half the gain from dividends. The only loser was Pembina Pipelines dropping .2 per cent after dividends. With the exception of Iamgold these are good stocks for the core of a portfolio. Bizworld’s favourite stocks for 2026 are resource based — Alamos Gold, Almonty Industries, Artemis Gold, Enbridge and Pembina Pipelines. Alamos Gold, trading at $55.03, owns two gold mines in Ontario, with expansion plans, one in Manitoba and one in Mexico. All are long life. The company also has interests in several advanced mining projects. Almonty Industries, $12.93, has just re-opened a tungsten mine in South Korea that will produce seven per cent of global tungsten production and reduce some reliance on the Chinese
near-monopoly. The company operates a small but expanding tungsten mine in Portugal and has acquired a shuttered tungsten mine in Montana, expected to re-open within a year or two. Almonty also owns a former tungsten and former molybdenum mine in Spain and an old moly mine in South Korea, Artemis Gold, $37.54, started production at the low cost Blackwater Mine in the B.C. Cariboo near Barkerville. The mine produced about 100,000 ounces in 2025. A Phase Two expansion sees between 190,000 and 230,000 ounces in 2026 with 500,00 ounces by 2028 making it the third largest gold mine in Canada. The next two favourites are oil and gas infrastructure operations. Enbridge Inc., $64.88 with a dividend yielding 5.98 per cent, owns oil and natural gas pipelines, natural gas utilities and storage and a renewable
energy division. Valued by the market at $141 billion, Enbridge plans on annual revenue growth of eight per cent with dividend growth of three per cent. The company moves about 20 per cent of all natural gas moved in the U.S.A. Pembina Pipelines, $51.69 with a dividend yielding 5.49 per cent, owns a network of collector pipelines for natural gas and oil, processing facilities, storage and controls the Cedar LNG plant at Kitimat B.C. Christmas Eve closing prices were used for this column. Good investing to you for 2026. CAUTION: Remember when investing, consult your adviser and do your homework before buying any security. Bizworld does not recommend investments. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
PAGE A12 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
From The Kitchen
By Joyce Walter - For Moose Jaw Express
Soup, slaw and cake will solve guests’ hunger When company stays for an extended visit, ideas for what to serve on cold, snowy days might become a problem for the host/hostess. This week’s recipes will cover ideas for soup, slaw and cake. ••• ONE-DISH-SOUP 1 lb. beef bones enough water to cover bones in a large pot 1/2 lb. stewing beef, cut into 1 inch squares 2 tsps. salt 1 medium onion, chopped 1 cup chopped celery and leaves 1/2 tsp. pepper 1/2 cup rice 1 medium potato, diced 3 carrots, diced 2 cups canned tomatoes enough water to make 1 gallon soup Cover the beef bones with water in a large cooking pot. Add the stewing beef squares, salt, onion, celery and pepper. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours. Add the rice, potato and carrots and cook another 45 minutes. Remove the bones and add the tomatoes and water. Simmer 15-20 minutes. Makes 8-10 servings. Serve hot with crackers or
chunks of French bread. ••• SWEET AND SOUR CABBAGE SLAW 1 head of cabbage, chopped fine 1 large onion, chopped fine 1 1/2 tsps. salt 3/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. mustard 1 cup vinegar 1 tsp. celery seed 1 cup vegetable oil Layer the chopped cabbage and chopped onion, alternately in a very large bowl. In a saucepan, combine salt, sugar, mustard, vinegar and celery seed and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and add the oil. Stir to combine and while hot, pour mixture over the cabbage and onion. Stir once, cover tightly and refrigerate for 24 hours. Makes 12 servings. Stir once or twice then serve after a soup course with sliced cold meats and a variety of breads. Store leftover salad in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. ••• CHERRY POUND CAKE 1 cup margarine
3/4 cup white sugar 2 eggs, beaten grated rind of one orange grated rind of one lemon 2 1/2 cups flour 1 tsp. each baking soda and salt 3/4 cup buttermilk 1/4 cup rum or cherry juice 1 tsp. almond flavouring 1 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 cups chopped marachino cherries Cream butter and sugar together. Beat in eggs and orange and lemon rind. Mix dry ingredients together. Beat half into butter mixture. Beat in buttermilk and rum and flavourings. Beat in remaining flour mixture. Stir in cherries. Grease and flour a bundt pan, pour in batter and smooth top. Bake in centre of a 350 degrees F oven for 55 to 60 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. Cool, remove from pan, cover and let stand for 24 hours. Wrap in plastic wrap and store in refrigerator. Slice and serve with ice cream or a favourite sauce. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
Usher in the New Year at the Moose Jaw Public Library Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
As the New Year begins, the Moose Jaw Public Library (MJPL) is opening 2026 with a fresh lineup of films, programs, and activities designed to inspire learning, creativity, and connection for community members of all ages. Movie Club The library’s movie club meets twice monthly to watch a film and engage in a short discussion starting at 6 p.m. in the library’s theatre. • The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938): Directed by Michael Curtiz, this classic adventure follows Robin Hood as he leads a band of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, standing up to corruption and injustice in medieval England. Show date: Monday, Jan. 5 • Hundreds of Beavers: Directed by Mike Cheslik and set in the 19th
century, this inventive silent comedy follows a hapless applejack merchant whose life spirals into chaos as he wages an increasingly absurd battle with a relentless colony of beavers. The film delivers fast-paced, visual comedy in black and white. Show date: Monday, Jan. 19 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. • 20 Days in Mariupol: Directed by award-winning photojournalist Mstyslav Chernov, the film offers a harrowing, first-hand account of the opening weeks of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, filmed inside the besieged city of Mariupol. The documentary
captures the human cost of war through raw, on-the-ground reporting. Show date: Thursday, Jan. 29 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 Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe: Four siblings evacuated from wartime London discover the magical world of Narnia through a mysterious wardrobe, where the land has been trapped in eternal winter by the White Witch. As an ancient prophecy unfolds, the children are drawn into a battle between good and evil alongside the lion Aslan, who represents Narnia’s hope for renewal and freedom. Show date: Saturday, Jan. 10 (rated PG)
• How to Train Your Dragon (2025): When a powerful danger threatens the island of Berk, a young Viking named Hiccup and his unlikely dragon companion, Toothless, must rely on trust and cooperation to protect both humans and dragons. Show date: Saturday, Jan. 24 (rated PG) 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 do a book binding project on Monday, Jan. 12. Advance registration is required. • Teen Makers: Guests will make rock Continued on next page
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A13
Usher in the New Year at the Moose Jaw Public Library, continued
candy on Wednesday, Jan. 7 • Maker Saturdays: Guests will make pinecone mice on Jan. 17, and then LEGO Spike Prime on Jan. 31, both 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, Jan. 7, 14, 21, and 28 • Daycare Storytime: Monday, Jan. 5, 12, 19, and 26 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. • 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 Thursdays, resuming Jan. 8. The free event is a drop-in program and you can come and go as you please. • Teen Dungeons and Dragons ‘Fort Spinefall’: The library is hosting a six-part teen D&D mini-campaign for youth ages 12 to 16, welcoming all experience levels. The program runs Tuesday evenings from Jan. 6 to Feb. 10. Registration is required and limited spaces are available for one group only. • Age-Friendly Book Chat: AgeFriendly Moose Jaw is hosting its Book Chat program for residents over
The Moose Jaw Public Library is located at 461 Langdon Crescent. Photo by: Aaron Walker
the age of 55 in the lounge area at the Timothy Eaton Centre from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8. For more information, call 306-692-2787. • Tissue paper lanterns: Join Miss A to make a tissue paper lantern on Saturday, Jan. 10. This event is intended for guests ages four and up and will take place in the Children’s Program Room. Advance registration is required. • Make Together: Guests are invited to attend “an evening dedicated to creating with others” on Monday, Jan. 19. Guests can bring any creative project to work on with others and are welcome to share ideas, techniques, and new media with each other. The drop-in program will be held in the South Meeting Room and is open to anyone over the age of 18. • Sparkly snow dough: Guests are invited to join Miss A “for a cozy winter story” and make their own sparkly snow dough in the Children’s Program Room on Saturday, Jan. 24. Advance registration is required. • Miniature painting for beginners: Guests are invited to the library for a night of painting with brushes, paint, and miniature figurines provided — but guests can bring their own materials if they wish. This will take place in the South Meeting Room on Monday, Jan. 26, and is intended for ages 16 and up. • School’s out, the library is in: Families are invited to the library
during the no-school Friday on Jan. 30 for a full day of self-guided activities for children. This includes pop-up storytimes, games, crafts, and a scavenger hunt from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Youth programming The library’s Teen Anime+ Club meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. 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: Featuring “The Water Magician” on Wednesday, Jan. 28 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. • Snowmen jars: Wednesday, Jan. 21 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, Jan. 14 Libby Patrons can browse a collection of eBooks with no waitlist on the Libby app, available with a valid library card. Hoopla Patrons are invited to explore seven
days of unlimited access to thoughtprovoking, quirky, and award-winning independent documentaries, series, and films, available on the Hoopla app with a valid library card. Kanopy Explore “the adventure of a lifetime” as seen through the eyes of acclaimed filmmakers for free through the Kanopy app, available with a valid library card. 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, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31 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 306-6912025 for an alternative venue. Tech Time: Tech Time offers one-onone 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, Jan. 17 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.
PAGE A14 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
WDM opens the New Year by inviting visitors to explore Saskatchewan’s past Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
As the New Year begins, the Western Development Museum (WDM) is welcoming visitors into 2026 with a range of heritage experiences and seasonal opportunities to explore Saskatchewan’s past, offering engaging exhibits and activities for families and history-minded visitors alike. Upcoming events • Treaty Timeline: A life-size timeline display exploring the history of treaties in Canada concludes on Jan. 3, 2026, after being on exhibit at the museum for an extended period. Developed in partnership with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, the exhibit guided visitors through key moments in treaty history and their lasting significance. • “Stuff the Superior” food drive: The museum’s food drive wraps up on Jan. 4, 2026, inviting the community to help fill its 1925 Chevrolet Superior with non-perishable food donations in support of the Moose Jaw and District Food Bank. Donations were collected in the truck bed displayed in the museum lobby, with participants
receiving a special WDM button as a thank-you. • Canada Strong Pass: As part of the Canada Strong Pass, visitors can enjoy free or discounted general admission at the WDM through Jan. 15, 2026, making it easier for families and young adults to explore Saskatchewan’s history. The initiative offers free admission for youth aged 17 and under, as well as 50 per cent off regular adult admission for those aged 18 to 24, with no physical pass or registration process required. Eligible guests simply need to identify themselves at the front desk upon arrival. The promotion applies to regular museum admission only and is supported by the Government of Canada. 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. • No upcoming seek and find events have been confirmed
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In the Estate of ROBERT GEORGE HAYWARD late of Moose Jaw, All claims against the above Estate, duly verified by Statutory Declaration, and, with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 28th day of January, 2026 GRACE HAYWARD Executor grace_hayward@hotmail.com
The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive. Photo by: WDM Moose Jaw (Moose Jaw, SK, Canada)/Facebook
at the time of publication. Courses and workshops The museum offers seasonal educational courses that teach skills ranging from blacksmithing to steam traction engine operations, 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 To demonstrate 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/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 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 coordinator 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 at 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, and will be closed on Jan. 1, 2026. For more information, visit the newly revised website at WDM.ca or reach out to the museum’s program and volunteer co-ordinator at 306693-5989. The Western Development Museum in Moose Jaw is located at 50 Diefenbaker Drive.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A15
Reflective Moments
By Joyce Walter - for Moose Jaw Express The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Calendar pages jog the memory of what we did to pass 2025 The calendar on the wall tells the truth: another year is ending and a new year is beginning, just like it happens every year at this time. But we still ask: “but where did the year go?” Even with selective memories working overtime, it is impossible to remember all the highlights of the past 365 days but if we’ve been diligent in scribbling appointments on the calendar, we will at least have a map of sorts. I do recall ending 2024 quietly, with our favourite burgers at the A&W, before watching the television coverage of the arrival of 2025 through various time zones in Canada. We managed to stay awake long enough to exchange traditional New Year’s greetings while I warbled words of Auld Lang Syne. And so it began, 2025, with hopes and wishes for a safe and healthy year laid out on blank calendar pages. The traditional New Year’s Levee was marked but we did not attend because I was heeding the surgeon’s advice to prepare myself for the surgery coming up in a week. Day surgery, I was told, but my stay in hospital extended to 10 days, getting home on the date that would have been the parents’ 92nd anniversary if they were alive. February began the usual way, with my birthday on the first day, marking the important milestone that gave me the same old age pension that others 75 and older received. That day I won a roast at the meat
draw to mark this auspicious occasion. Doctors’ appointments for both of us in Moose Jaw and Regina filled out the squares of this short month. March turned out to be a month of suppers I didn’t have to cook: friends arrived from Texas and it was their turn to pay. Then we attended a rib night, an Irish stew supper, another supper was marked but no idea where — I wonder what we ate and if we had companions. On March 20 I had marked “worms on the calendar. That would be Arrogant Worms which was an entertaining evening about Saskatchewan Pirates. The Musical Revue, sponsored by Friends of the Forces Fellowship, was top notch again. Towards the end of the month I retired as a volunteer and board member of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company, ending 45 years during which many long-time friendships were made across the country. April: In addition to our regular appointments and meetings, two days stand out in this month. One was Housemate’s birthday, celebrated at Hopkins Dining Parlour, and our friend, Lyle Johnson receiving his provincial volunteer medal at Government House in Regina. We tagged along with him to the Legislative Buildings to be introduced by Megan Patterson, MLA for Moose Jaw Wakamow. May was more medical appointments and meetings. We ended the month witnessing the installation of Vaughn Solomon Schofield as Honourary Colonel at 15 Wing.
June’s highlights included the Mark Chestnut concert at the hockey arena and the opportunity to welcome Col. Adam Carlson as the new commanding officer at 15 Wing, saying so long to Brig.-Gen. Dan Coutts who moved on to Winnipeg. This month also marked the start of car show season at Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum. And Fellowship members accompanied 16 military families to Ogema where a ride on the train introduced the families to a Saskatchewan tourist attraction and some pioneer ways of life. July began with pancakes at the Cosmo Centre and ended at the Native races in Maple Creek. In between we visited the Creelman Fair and the bean festival in Riverhurst and were in the audience when Shania Twain stopped in Moose Jaw for a well-publicized concert. Early in the month we joined other Fellowship volunteers assisting at the Snowbirds’ show at the municipal airport. On the home front a new boiler was installed to keep us warm in the winter. Fingers crossed. August was a month of good times. We wished a friend a happy 90th birthday and joined two more friends at an anniversary supper to celebrate their 65th year together. But we missed Apple Pie Day in Mossbank. Shame. September started with my sister’s birthday and later that week the annual threshing bee at the Sukanen museum. There was considerable community interest as the Legion celebrated the move to new premises on
Fairford Street West. The Battle of Britain took us to 15 Wing to hear about the role Canadian soldiers played in the historic battle. And our great great niece started kindergarten and we were delighted to be gifted with a car seat so we can occasionally transport her where she needs to go. October brought with it several opportunities to attend fowl suppers so off we went, seeing many familiar faces along the way. Long-time friend Kelly Bourdages was the headliner for a concert in which the hey days of hotels on River Street were remembered. We celebrated our 56th anniversary the next week and hoped for 57. November’s first weekend took us to two more suppers and to the investiture of our friend Holly Jorstad as Honourary Lt.-Col. of the Saskatchewan Dragoons. Four generations of my family were on hand to celebrate the inclusion of our family member Mil-
ton Allen (Casey) Steele on the showcase of veterans’ banners on the city’s main thoroughfare. Remembrance Day, the Scott Woods concert and the Elks’ Chili Challenge rounded out the month. December was the month of Christmas parties and dinners, Christmas Day with family and Boxing Day with longtime friends and a couple visits to the hospital for a number of reasons. And to end it all, a gathering of friends for dinner and celebrations at Hopkins’ Dining Parlour. We mourn the loss of several friends who passed away in 2025 while cherishing the visits of long-time friends. We give daily thanks for the lives of friends and family who continue to bless us with their presence and kindness. Happy New Year to all. Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net
RM of REDBURN #130
The RM of Redburn No 130 is accepting applications for a 1A licensed truck driver to spread gravel on municipal roads, the position is expected to complete the project in approximately 400 hours and be performed between the last week in May and the third week in August. Applicants must have a clean Driver's Abstract, must possess a 1A license without restrictions and must be able to follow instructions while working independently. The compensation is competitive and is related to experience and your driving record. The successful applicant will be operating municipal equipment and is expected to perform regular, general maintenance. Please email resumes to rm130@sasktel.net or call 306-776-2270 for further clarification.
PAGE A16 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
P&H ends grain handling at Moose Jaw elevator while other operations continue Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A longstanding chapter in Moose Jaw’s agricultural landscape came to a quiet close as the aging grain elevator at Parrish & Heimbecker’s (P&H) 501 High Street West facility stopped receiving deliveries last month. According to P&H, the grain elevator portion of the Moose Jaw site closed on Dec. 19, 2025, marking the end of grain-handling operations at the older structure. Other parts of the facility — including its crop input operations — remain fully operational and are not expected to close.
“The grain portion of the Moose Jaw elevator is closing, but the crop input location is still operating as normal,” said Monika Robertson, who works in corporate marketing and communications for P&H. According to a post shared by a site manager, the last delivery was made by veteran driver Kelly Bumphrey, who has hauled grain to P&H for decades. While the driver could not be reached for comment and P&H was unable to share details about his career, the final delivery was regarded by some as a symbolic end to an era.
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS JOIN ONE OF THE CITY’S NEW ADVISORY COMMITTEES!
Moose Jaw City Council is seeking passionate Moose Javians who want to make a positive impact within one of our newly formed committees: • Community Services Advisory Committee Focus areas: Parks, Recreation, Public Art, Heritage, and Accessibility • Operations Advisory Committee Focus areas: Transit, Public Works, Infrastructure, Recycling and Waste, and Accessibility. Who should apply? Moose Jaw Residents who are: • 16+ years old. • A Canadian citizen. • A full-time resident of Moose Jaw. • Committed to providing informed recommendations that help guide the City’s future. • Interested in topics like recreation, public art, culture, transit, infrastructure, or accessibility. • Collaborative and community minded. City Council values inclusivity, respect and trust and invites participation from community members in the decision-making process. Nominees will have been recruited through an inclusive, transparent, and equitable process and appointments made by City Council will reflect these objectives. To learn more and apply: Visit Moosejaw.ca Deadline to apply: Friday, January 23, 2026. Questions: Contact the Office of the City Clerk at cclerk@moosejaw.ca or 306-694-4424.
The Parrish & Heimbecker grain elevator in Moose Jaw, a longstanding part of the city’s agricultural landscape, where grain deliveries ended in December. P&H said other operations at the site remain operational. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Robertson said the decision to close the grain elevator was tied to a broader review of the company’s higher-performing or priority assets across Saskatchewan and Canada. “It’s a combination of things … when we look at all of our assets in Saskatchewan, we wanted to ensure that we were putting more work into our better assets,” she said. “We want to make sure that any of our upgrades and growth go into some different facilities across Saskatchewan, but we do have a number still (operational) in Saskatchewan. It’s just basically to optimize our operations across Canada.” While the Moose Jaw elevator is no longer receiving grain, Robertson emphasized that the company continues to operate extensively throughout the province, offering alternatives for producers and truck drivers who previously delivered to the site. “For any of our farmers — existing customers or new customers — we have locations in Congress, Watrous, and Weyburn that are relatively close, depending on which area of Saskatchewan they are in. All of those locations are still operating fully, and any truck driver
or farmer can deliver grain there,” she said. Robertson added that P&H continues to maintain a strong provincial and national presence. “We still have several locations across Saskatchewan and in every province (that remain in operation) — just this grain portion in Moose Jaw is closing,” she said. The site holds a place in local industrial history. Robin Hood Flour traces its Canadian origins to Moose Jaw in 1909, and the company’s iconic Robin Hood figure was painted on the same mill elevator in 1922,
later becoming a familiar landmark for decades. Robertson said there are currently no confirmed plans regarding the future of the closed elevator structure, and no announced changes to other operations at the site. “I don’t know what the plans are for the building,” she said, adding that the company is not aware of any planned expansions to the remaining crop input operations at this time. The closure also comes as P&H continues to expand and consolidate its grain-handling network elsewhere in Western Canada. The company has announced it is acquiring GrainsConnect Canada, a transaction that includes four high-capacity grain elevators in Saskatchewan and Alberta, along with a 50-per-cent ownership stake in Fraser Grain Terminal at the Port of Vancouver. While P&H has not linked the Moose Jaw closure directly to that acquisition, the move aligns with broader industry trends toward concentrating investment in newer, higher-capacity assets and export-oriented infrastructure. For further information, visit ParrishAndHeimbecker. com.
A final grain delivery is made to Parrish & Heimbecker’s Moose Jaw elevator on Dec. 19, marking the end of grain-handling operations at the aging structure. P&H said its crop input business at the site remains fully operational. Photo by: Ashton Bumphrey
Prairie Hearts Quilters deliver hundreds of handmade placemats to seniors at Christmas Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
For another holiday season, the Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild has wrapped up its annual Christmas placemat campaign, delivering hundreds of handmade pieces to seniors and hospital patients across Moose Jaw and surrounding communities. In total, 518 placemats were completed during the 2025 campaign, with 506 distributed in time for Christmas meals and 12 held back to start the 2026 season. While the final count fell just short of last year’s record-setting total of 525, the effort again reached care homes, hospitals, and Meals on Wheels recipients who might otherwise spend Christmas Day in near isolation. Placemat co-ordinator Linda Owens said the project is a year-round effort involving dozens of volunteer quilters. “The girls make the placemats during the course of the year and hand them in to me. They all have a card on them that says, ‘This is a gift from the Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild,’” Owens said. Once collected, Owens prepares each placemat for delivery, paying close attention to safety and presentation and ensuring there are no pins or sewing needles accidentally left behind — a detail informed by her background as a retired nurse. The placemats are then rolled, tagged, and packed into large Christmas bags before being delivered to their destinations. This year’s distribution included Meals on Wheels clients in Moose Jaw, Assiniboia, and Coronach, along with care homes in Assiniboia, Rockglen, Lafleche, Gravelbourg, Coronach, and Central Butte. In Moose Jaw, 106 placemats were delivered to the Special Care Home (formerly Extendicare). Recipients included a longstanding guild member now residing at the home. A further 57 placemats were delivered to Crescent Park Villa and 65 to patients at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital, ensuring those admitted over the holidays could enjoy Christmas dinner with a festive touch. The program has been running for roughly a decade and remains one of the guild’s most visible outreach initiatives.
Members of the Prairie Hearts Quilter’s Guild work on Christmas placemats at Vanier Collegiate on Nov. 18, 2023. Photo by: Aaron Walker
While most of the placemats — about 90 per cent — were made by members in Moose Jaw, Owens said the campaign also benefited from support beyond city limits. “I did want to expressly thank the guild members and quilters from Regina and surrounding communities who have donated,” she said. Over the years, the guild has occasionally received feedback from recipients and their families, although Owens isn’t aware of any recent feedback as the guild doesn’t meet until Jan. 8. “In the past, we have received thankyou letters from some of the seniors, and sometimes they’re from patients who were in the hospital on Christmas Day and got a placemat. Sometimes it’s from the families,” she said. “We did have a card from a resident at Providence Place once who said it was the only Christmas gift she got.” The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild also supports the community through other outreach projects, including pillowcases for pediatric patients and quilts for dialysis and chemotherapy patients. Members meet regularly throughout the year at Vanier Collegiate after regular school hours to quilt, learn new techniques, and prepare items for donation. To learn more, visit PrairieHeartsQuilters.com, follow “Moose Jaw Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild” on Facebook, or email PrairieHeartsQuilters@yahoo. ca.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A17
PAGE A18 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com
Sask. Selects ready to bring international football to Moose Jaw in January Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
As the calendar turns to 2026, local sports fans are being reminded that one of the city’s largest winter sporting events is just days away, with the Saskatchewan Selects Football club set to host its annual Battle on the Prairies tournament from Jan. 8 to 11 at the Yara Centre. The indoor football showcase has grown into a major midwinter attraction, drawing elite youth teams from across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, while also delivering a significant economic boost to the city during an otherwise quiet season for tourism. For Sask. Selects managing director Zeljko Stefanovic, the January tournament represents the culmination of a demanding winter development season — and a chance for residents to see high-level football up close. “If you want to come watch some amazing football, these are some of the best athletes from Western Canada, the U.S., and Mexico … the Yara Centre is going to be the place to be on Jan. 8 to 11,” Stefanovic said previously. Based out of Moose Jaw, the Sask. Selects program draws athletes from more than 60 communities across the province and operates as a winter football development pathway. This season alone, the club is fielding eight teams across four age groups — 10U, 12U, 14U, and varsity — involving roughly 500 athletes. The upcoming tournament arrives on the heels of a major international success for the program. In late November,
Moose Jaw Warriors
tickets at
Sask. Selects players compete during a packed Battle on the Prairies tournament last January at the Yara Centre. The fast-paced indoor football showcase returns to Moose Jaw from Jan. 8 to 11, promising another weekend of high-level competition. Photo by: Aaron Walker
the Selects’ 14U travel team captured the Pigskin Classic championship in Las Vegas, defeating the Fresno Seahawks 19–0 to claim their first title at the tournament since 2019. “It speaks volumes about the quality of football from Saskatchewan,” Stefanovic said following that win. “Football in general is alive and well in the province … (and) these athletes … are undoubtedly some of the best in the country.” That Las Vegas performance helped set the tone for what Stefanovic has described as the club’s biggest season to date, with international interest continuing to grow around the Moose Jaw-
Prince Albert Raiders
based program. “This year it’s even bigger,” he said. “There are four teams (and about 250 people altogether) coming from Mexico … a team from Boston … Texas, and we have teams from across Canada coming. … It’s going to be bananas in (the Yara Centre).” The scale of the tournament extends well beyond the field. In previous years, the Battle on the Prairies has brought thousands of visitors to Moose Jaw, filling hotels, restaurants, and local businesses during a traditionally slow winter period. Following last year’s event, organizers estimated that roughly 4,000
Moose Jaw Warriors
people were in the city specifically for the tournament, accounting for approximately 2,000 hotel room nights over a five-day span. Based on a series of surveys led by event organizers, Sask. Selects estimates the program contributes between $2.7 and $3 million annually to Moose Jaw’s economy, with visiting families returning repeatedly throughout the winter for practices and competitions. “They can’t just go home for lunch,” Stefanovic said. “They’re buying hotel rooms here, they’re going to eat in restaurants, and (they’re) getting fuel. That’s huge for our local economy.” On the field, fans can expect a fastpaced indoor version of four-down football played on a U.S.-sized field, adapted for the Yara Centre’s indoor environment. Games are run under NCAA-style rules, with modified formats designed to keep play moving and the atmosphere energetic. “It’s quick, and there’s a lot of scoring,” Stefanovic said. “The vibe in here is crazy — music blasting, videos going, fans everywhere. They’re right up against the sides. It’s awesome.” With dozens of Moose Jaw-area athletes expected to suit up alongside players from across the continent, Stefanovic hopes local residents will once again turn out in force. “We want as many people in (the Yara Centre) as possible — we want to blow the roof off that place,” he said. For more information, visit SelectsFootball.com.
Victoria Royals
110 1st ave | Temple Gardens Centre | 306-694-5711
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A19 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com
January 2, 2026: Medicine Hat Tigers roar out to five goal lead, go on to take win over Moose Jaw Warriors Warriors score pair late but go on to drop 6-3 decision in Western Hockey League action
Warriors captain Brady Ness scored for Moose Jaw on Friday night in Medicine Hat. Moose Jaw Warriors
The Moose Jaw Warriors had the unenviable task of facing the hottest team in the Canadian Hockey League on Friday night, and as it turns out, the Medicine Hat Tigers are just as dangerous as the stats say they are. The Tigers built a five-goal lead by the four minute mark of the second period and would go on to a 6-3 victory in Western Hockey League action from Co-op Place in Medicine Hat.
The win gives Medicine Hat 14 straight victories and points in 18 straight games, with a 16-0-1-1 record in that span. They improve to 26-6-3-2 overall and remain one point clear of the Prince Albert Raiders for first place in the Eastern Conference. Moose Jaw falls to 14-18-3-1 and remains in seventh in the Conference, 10 points behind Calgary and five up on Regina.
January 3, 2026: Medicine Hat Tigers run win streak to 15 with victory over Moose Jaw Warriors
Tigers score four straight through second and third periods, go on to 5-1 victory in Moose Jaw
Cohen Williams and the Moose Jaw Warriors got off to a better start against the Medicine Hat Tigers on Saturday night but couldn’t find the win column. Nick Pettigrew
The Moose Jaw Warriors had flashes of brilliance early against the Medicine Hat Tigers on Saturday night, but the Tigers that their win streak proved too tough to crack as the game progressed. Medicine Hat scored four straight goals through the second and third periods and would go on to a 5-1 victory in Western Hockey League action at Temple Gardens Centre in Moose Jaw. The Tigers picked up their 15th straight win and now have points in 19
straight games -- going 17-0-1-1 in that span -- while improving to 27-6-3-2 and remaining in first place at the top of the Eastern Conference. Moose Jaw loses their second straight and are now 14-19-3-1, good enough for seventh place in the Conference. The Warriors are now off on their U.S. Division road trip, with action beginning on Friday in Wenatchee against the Wild.
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PAGE A20 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com
OPINION/COMMENTARY
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
Rhino’s Ramblings - The Losing Feeling By Robert Thomas Opinion/Commentary
A few weeks back I ran into a former neighbour who told me about his son, Brendan, who a few years back played in the Kinsmen Moose Jaw Minor Football League (MJMFL). It wasn’t a story about trophies. It wasn’t a story about championships. It is about something much more than that. It is about losses. A lot of them. To be accurate close to three years of losses. And many of the games not even close. So what is the big deal about losing? What sets this story aside of others? It all comes down to one word - fun. “He played there for three years. They never won a game (Brendan said they did) but he had a lot of fun,” was how my former neighbour Gerald put it. What’s this fun while losing? It doesn’t seem to fit the narrative when it comes to what people generally
think about local minor sports or should I say any sports. But more of the background can help define the story. Speaking to Gerald the big thing Brendan got out of football really wasn’t football. If I had to describe it was discipline, exercise, character building and friendships that traversed past the grid iron and a physically changing workout ethic. Gerald told me one of the greatest changes he saw in Brendan was a physical one. Brendan would lose 30 to 40 pounds and “get ripped”. “You see models and athletes with six packs. But how often do you see a Grade 8 student with a six pack?” Gerald asked. “That’s what you get from their intensive practices.”
Sask Polytech Startup Challenge applications close Jan. 12 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Local entrepreneurs and students are being reminded that applications are now open for the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Startup Challenge, a provincewide mentorship and pitch competition returning in early 2026. Led by Sask Polytech’s Business Innovation and Entrepreneurship Centre (BIEC), the 10-week program runs from January through April and supports early-stage businesses, social enterprises, and student-led ventures through virtual workshops and oneon-one mentorship. The challenge will culminate in a pitch showcase in mid-April at the
Town ’N’ Country Mall, where finalists will present their proposed ventures to a panel of judges. Cash prizes are available in two streams, with awards of up to $10,000 for early-stage ventures and up to $2,000 for student-led startups, along with additional themed prizes. More information and application details are available at SaskPolytech. ca, or by email at BIEC@SaskPolytech.ca. Applications close Jan. 12. The full story was published on the cover of the Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
Gerald would also go on how he and his wife had a great time while Brendan was playing football. One of the biggest memories was the day the team actually won a game. As Gerald remembers it, it was like they had won the league championship or was it the Grey Cup? Maybe even the Super Bowl. “They (Brendan’s team) went wild. The other team couldn’t figure out why,” Gerald said. I guess this isn’t what you’d call a Cinderella season. The team would never win again. But those three years of losing were worth more than losses and a win. It’s the actual effect it had on the kids which are not recorded on the score clock. I spoke to Bryan Boys president of the MJMFL and he told me that it’s the right coach that makes it fun - even if you’re losing. But getting back to Brendan during those years in minor football he met all kinds of people he never would have as a King George student. Friendships that eased his life in
high school. I’d like to tell you Brendan would go on to star with the Peacock Tornadoes and then off to the Saskatchewan Roughriders or hey maybe the NFL. Brendan would never play organized football again. But sorry this story doesn’t end this way. After graduating high school Brendan would go on to find good work and start his life in Moose Jaw. Not a typical sports ending. It raises the question: Is minor sports about being a factory and turning out future professional sports players? Or is about so much more? I suppose if you want to look at it philosophically what is minor sports really about? Only you the reader and fans can decide. But back to Brendan. He recently became a father and for that I say Congratulations. https://www.mjindependent.com/ opinion/2026/1/1/rhinos-ramblings-
SNAPSHOT: Living Sky Art Collective names Mark Michener as January’s Artist of the Month
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express SNAPSHOT: The Living Sky Art Collective is welcoming the new year by recognizing photographer Mark Michener as its January Artist of the Month, showcasing his striking image “Bridge to the Stars” at the collective’s gallery space in the Town ’n’ Country Mall. The photograph captures the Milky Way galaxy rising above a local bridge, with the structure carefully framed in the foreground to create a dramatic sense of scale and place. Michener is known for his distinctive approach to night photography and is an active member of the Moose Jaw Camera Club, as well as a regular contributor to the Living Sky Art Collective. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the studio to view the work up close and learn more about the artist-led collective and its members. Photo by: Living Sky Art Collective
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A21 Share your team’s news, pictures and results with us! email: editor@mjvexpress.com
New Boxing Club Hopes To Go Further Than Just A Punch In The Ring By Robert Thomas
Boxing is more than just punching someone. Much, much more says Adam Toto the owner/manager of Moose Jaw’s new boxing club - Moose Jaw Boxing. Boxing develops a person physically, mentally and character wise it can be a lifesaver. Combining this with a need in the community has Toto opening a boxing club. Something the city hasn’t had for years and something that has now been brought back. Moving to Moose Jaw’s in 2021 to work for Brandt Industries, the club is an extension of a backyard hobby and a love affair with the sport for Toto. “My coworker actually got me into coaching. He had some kids that in the summertime who had nothing to do. So I coached them in the backyard,” Toto said, adding “One thing led to another and I started getting clients, but I couldn’t do anything because it was seasonal, I could only do them in the summertime.” Toto saved money over a couple of years until opportunity came up.
Adam Toto - MJ Independent photo
Opportunity came up this past November and Toto took his savings to launch the club. In the club’s two months of operation membership has grown to 17 but Toto would like to see the club grow in numbers. The age group Toto is aiming for is ages eight years old to adult. At the present time the oldest club member is in their mid50s. Both men and women are welcome to join the club.
SWHL All-Star Showcase coming to Moose Jaw Jan. 10 Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Hockey fans will have a chance to see Saskatchewan’s top senior women’s players in action when the Saskatchewan Senior Women’s Hockey League (SSWHL) hosts its inaugural All-Star Showcase at the Temple Gardens Centre on Saturday, Jan. 10. The showcase, presented by Canadian Tire Moose Jaw, will feature elite players from across the province. Doors open at 6 p.m., with puck drop scheduled for 7 p.m. Admission is by donation. All proceeds from the event will support the Moose Jaw Minor Hockey Mavericks, helping offset costs related to registration, equipment, and player development for local girls and young
women. The SSWHL launched earlier this season and has expanded rapidly, creating new competitive opportunities for women aging out of minor and university hockey programs. Organizers say the All-Star Showcase marks an important milestone for the league while giving back to grassroots women’s hockey in the community. More information about the league is available at SSWHL.ca. The Temple Gardens Centre is located at 110 First Avenue Northwest. Look for further details on Pages A63 and A64 of the Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.
At the present time, the club is running two practices - contact and non-contact. Non-contact is an introduction to boxing teaching the fundamentals of the sport. A major aspect of the noncontact training is the importance of the jab, the cross and the hook. “It takes time it’s also a mind and muscle connection. Aside from learning you can also get into full body conditioning. Conditioning that doesn’t require two hours on the treadmill. All requires is for you to come here and be willing to break a sweat,” Toto said. For his oldest student, over the weeks he has noticeably improved. “That is what this gym is about progression and results.” “Boxing is an overall movement you can do for anything in your life. It’s very functional. It’s not only physical it’s also for your mental well-being, your emotional well being. It’s more of an internal and external connection that you have to do here. it takes some time for the mind muscle connection to build,” he said. Boxing goes beyond fighting in the ring, conditioning and mental coordination, it’s also about building good character and turning around lives. Toto has seen it happen. Toto has seen it happen to himself. As a young man living in Regina, Toto’s dad would die and he would go adrift into some really bad stuff. Boxing turned his life around.
He would see a car one day advertising boxing in Regina and something inside of him told him to check it out. Soon boxing would change his life and character for the better and he got off of the destructive path to a constructive one. It’s a path that left the aggression in the ring and not on the streets. Boxing built his character for the better. Boxing would be his surrogate teacher as his dad was not there anymore for him. “The more you get into it the more humble you get…” It’s something Toto is trying to instill in the youngest members of the club. It’s how the sport is not just about punching but also about building character. It’s about the kids wanting to come back. “All I have to do is give them words of encouragement and they see what they’re capable of and they want to do more. It’s easier to come back the next day; that’s what boxing is all about…the belief in yourself.” Toto said he would like to develop enough boxers to take part in inter-club matches against the Regina boxing clubs and someday have the most national champions of any club in the province. A website is under construction, and the final cosmetic touch-ups of the club are underway. For more information - Adam Toto 306 - 313 - 9605 ; Email - moosejawboxing@ gmail.com
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PAGE A22 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
OPINION/EDITORIAL
Letters to the
EDITOR for MJ Express
Part 1 (Please see the following edition for Part 2) Re: Zoning, Charity, and Governance: Rethinking Moose Jaw’s Response to Homelessness On December 15, 2025, Moose Jaw City Council voted to amend Zoning Bylaw 5346 following pressure from downtown businesses and residents. The complaints prompting the amendment were largely attributed to the presence of Hope Ministries’ warming centre and meal programs, which serve individuals struggling to meet their basic needs. Concerns raised included public safety, property values, and perceived impacts on tourism. These concerns are understandable. However, responding by restricting charitable services risks misidentifying the root problem. The challenge facing Moose Jaw is not the existence of charitable organizations, but the absence of a coordinated and effective government-led strategy to address homelessness. Charities such as Hope Ministries are filling gaps left by municipal, provincial, and fedRe: Growing up in Moose Jaw My name is Ellen and I was born and raised in M.J. the friendly city. I left M.J. in 1957 when I married a fellow in the Air Force where we left for a 2 and ahalf year posting to Germany. I have often been told, “You can take the girl out of M.J.,but you can’t take M.J. out of the girl”. And that I hold true. I have always been friendly and have ejoyed helping people whenever I can.
Guidelines for Submitting Letters to the Editor:
Due to space allotment in Moose Jaw Express for free letters to the editor, we find it necessary to establish some guidelines in submissions that will be in effect. • All letters to the editor submitted to the Moose Jaw Express newspaper should not exceed 900 words. In this case, we reserve the right to edit them accordingly. • Please do not write letters of personal attack or are condescending. • A full name and contact information will need to be included with each submission for verification.
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All columns, letters to the editor and editorials are solely the personal opinions of the writers themselves and not necessarily the opinions of The Moose Jaw Express
eral systems. Treating them as the problem reflects a failure of governance, not of charity. Homelessness is, by definition, a government responsibility. While delivery of services may be shared across levels of government, accountability cannot be offloaded onto non-profit organizations. By amending the zoning bylaw to regulate charitable services more tightly, the City risks overreach into acts of charity while leaving the underlying causes of homelessness unresolved. At any given time, approximately five percent of the population relies on some form of government support. In Moose Jaw, this translates to roughly 1,700 residents depending on income assistance, food programs, disability supports, child protection services, or subsidized housing. Within this group, an estimated 100 to 150 individuals experience homelessness and represent the most vulnerable segment of the population. This number is relatively stable and predictable. Responsible governance requires ensuring sufficient resources to manage it ef-
fectively. The objectives should be straightforward: prevent avoidable deaths and ensure that public funds are used efficiently to reduce harm and instability. The argument for zoning amendments implicitly assumes that homelessness can be managed by removing its visible effects from the downtown core. This assumption is flawed. Downtown areas are where homeless individuals can most readily access shelters, meals, social services, medical care, and informal income opportunities. Concentrating services downtown is not accidental; it is functional. Research consistently shows that people experiencing homelessness rely on downtown locations to sustain themselves through panhandling, recycling, informal labour, short-term work, and access to benefits and services. Attempting to push people away from these areas without providing alternatives does not reduce homelessness—it simply displaces it, often worsening outcomes for both individuals and the community. If downtown businesses and
residents are dissatisfied with the current situation, accountability should be directed appropriately. Provincial governments are responsible for health care, addiction treatment, mental health services, and income assistance. Municipal governments, while not responsible for delivering these programs, have a direct interest in ensuring they are coordinated effectively. City Council’s role should therefore focus on leadership, coordination, and advocacy rather than restriction. This includes working closely with charitable organizations to minimize negative impacts, coordinating across all levels of government, and holding provincial and federal partners accountable for the services under their jurisdiction. Amending zoning bylaws to constrain charitable services is a weak response to a complex social issue. Real leadership requires collaboration, coordination, and a willingness to address homelessness as a systemic challenge rather than a nuisance to be regulated out of sight. Jeff Woodward
I remember when the “Exchange Cafe” was at the corner of Main and Manitoba and on Main Street there was a small cafe owned by the name of Fred that served the best hot dogs and ice cream. My Scottish grandmother used to send me for ice creamed cones and I had to run home with them to where we lived on River St. East. before they would melt. I remember the “Exchange Cafe” made the very best “Fish and
Chips”. I attended “Victoria Public School” and loved playing basketball for hours at the court yard. I also attended “Knox Presbyterian Church” where I sang in Junior and Senior Choir. Such happy times are what I remember and even though times were tough things were so much easier then. I remember as a child running up to “Woolworths” and “ “Kresge’s” to buy Christmas gifts for my fam-
ily. It was usually an ash tray for my Dad (Who worked for the B.A. Oil and maybe earrings for my Mom who was a home maker. Oh yes, those were the days. Challenges, yes, but you know what??? I wouldn’t have wanted togrow up any where else. God bless M.J. and everyone in it. Merry Christmas . All the best for 2026. Ellen Olson
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A23
‘Fellow in Yellow’ reaches West Coast after cross-Canada stop in Moose Jaw Aaron Walker -Moose Jaw Express
When Trevor Redmond — known nationally as the “Fellow in Yellow” — passed through Moose Jaw in August, the city marked one chapter in a journey that has now carried him from ocean to ocean. Redmond has now completed his east-to-west trek across Canada, reaching the West Coast and continuing toward Vancouver Island. He said his motivation was never centred on distance, instead pointing to the connections formed along the way, including those made in places like Moose Jaw. “This wasn’t ever about a run across Canada. It’s about reaching people in the best possible way, and with the best possible example,” Redmond explained. “I am not out to break personal records; I’m out to beat the odds.” Redmond, who nearly lost his leg after being struck by a vehicle as a teenager, has now crossed the country under his own power three different ways — walking, biking, and running. He described the accomplishment as “the grand trifecta,” but stressed the physical feat is meant to support a broader message around resilience, trauma, and preventative health. “It certainly is about the endurance, but it’s the endurance we can give ourselves to endure our trauma,” he said.
“I’ve endured snow, rain, wind — you name it — and I’ve come out the other side.” Moose Jaw was one of many Prairie communities Redmond walked through as part of the endeavour, offering encouragement and support along the way. “I have thousands of people supporting me, and I’m hoping to gather thousands, if not millions more,” he said, noting that “I am out to move Canadians through my actions.” Redmond said his focus centres on mental health and addiction, both of which he believes should be treated with the same seriousness as any physical injury. “Don’t believe you can handle it by yourself … if you’re still going through it, you might need help.” That focus has guided his partnership with the Dollar A Day Foundation, which supports mental health and addiction services across Canada. “Helping others to take steps starts with a helping hand,” he noted. “The more we move, the more we move others.” Redmond said the undertaking also challenged deeply held assumptions, including his own. “I became a believer in not believing,” he explained. “You have a lot of motivational speakers go ‘You’ve got
Trevor (Fellow in Yellow) Redmond stops at the KOA Campground in Moose Jaw on Aug. 8 and 9, 2025, as part of his crossCanada journey to promote the power of movement. He has since completed his trek to the West Coast. Photo by: Aaron Walker
to believe this and you’ve got to believe that.’ No. You have to find out. Often we get stuck in our beliefs.” He credits that mindset to his recovery years, recalling doctors who warned he would face severe physical limitations later in life. “If I (listened) to them, I wouldn’t be talking to you right now.” As he contemplates his return east, noting that he feels inspired “to turn around and run all the way back,” Red-
mond said one of the most difficult parts of the journey has been feeling unseen. “(The wind, cold, and physical pain are) all uncomfortable, but nothing is more hurtful and more uncomfortable than not being able to reach the people I want to reach. That’s what I’m out here for.” Still, he said, the response from communities like Moose Jaw affirmed why he continues. “I’m sewing the thread across Canada … to connect all Canadians,” he said. “We are all going through (struggles) and we can get through it together.” Redmond’s total distance across all three crossings is 36,409 kilometres, a figure he said places him about 3,700 kilometres short of travelling the Earth’s circumference under his own power. Asked what comes next, Redmond said the answer is the same one that has carried him across the country and continues to shape his outlook on what’s possible. “Don’t believe it,” he said. “We’ll find out.” To learn more about The Fellow in Yellow, the Dollar A Day Foundation, Redmond’s inspirational soundtrack, and how to sponsor a dedicated kilometre of his trek, visit ThereAndBackCanada.ca.
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PAGE A24 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Voltage ’25 draws hundreds of youth for New Year’s celebration Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
After hundreds of youth rang in the New Year at Voltage ’25, Joe’s Place founder Joe Dueck said the overnight event stood out for an uncommon reason — how smoothly it ran. “Voltage 2025 was really amazing,” he said in an interview from Hillcrest Apostolic Church during cleanup on Jan. 3. “With an event of this magnitude, the fact that there were so few hiccups is kind of a miracle. Really, everything worked almost perfectly, and that’s incredible.” Dueck estimated attendance at more than 660 people overall, including approximately 520 youth and 140 volunteers, noting that volunteer numbers are difficult to track precisely as people moved between roles throughout the night. One of the night’s most popular attractions was the aptly named “danger zone sweeper wheel,” an inflatable game where rotating arms attempted to knock participants onto a padded floor. The activity formed part of the
larger gladiator tournament, which ran throughout the evening and ended with one youth winning a new Sony PlayStation 5. The tournament also featured contributions from Vanier Collegiate’s robotics program, adding a student-built technological element. Creative spaces also stayed busy throughout the night, particularly the art room, where some youth spent hours working on projects. Three art contests were held, including painting a canvas, creating a steampunk mask or pirate chest, and building a sculpture using modelling clay. Winners in each category received a new tablet. “There was so much talent in that room,” Dueck said. Gaming tournaments also drew strong participation, including Super Smash Bros. competitions on the Nintendo Switch and a Fortnite tournament, with prizes ranging from a gaming monitor to a large Linus Tech Tips prize package. Dueck said the ongoing support from Linus Media Group traces
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back to a Joe’s Place youth who won a Linus Tech Tips videography contest years ago, bringing attention to the work happening at the youth centre. Other well-attended spaces included the puppy room, staffed by a former Joe’s Place youth, and the karaoke room, which he described as “unusually energetic.” One of the most talked-about moments of the night was the traditional Voltage skit, which Dueck said received some of the strongest audience responses in the event’s history. “It actually surprised me how many of the older references got cheers,” he said, citing Kermit the Frog, Statler and Waldorf from The Muppet Show, and Larry the Cucumber from VeggieTales. This year’s skit also featured the highest number of Joe’s Place Media Alliance participants to date, many of whom had never acted before. Dueck said these participants “just nailed their parts.” Beyond entertainment, Dueck said
the skit carried a message he hopes youth take with them into the New Year. “Probably the biggest thing that we want youth to take away is that, if they are struggling with anything, they do not have to do it alone,” he said. “They can ask for help, admit that they need help, and there are people out there willing to help. Come to Joe’s Place if you’re struggling, and we would love to get to know you.” Dueck added that Joe’s Place is still seeking sponsors to support remaining Voltage-related programming this month, including the Covenant movie premiere — a filmed version of the Media Alliance live skit that will see youth arrive by limo and walk the red carpet — expected to take place around Jan. 20. For more information, visit Voltage-SK.com or “Joe’s Place Youth Centre (official)” on Facebook. Joe’s Place Youth Centre is located at 402 Main Street North.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A25
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How Joe Dueck’s vision for youth found its place downtown Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
When Joe Dueck first welcomed a few close friends into his downtown apartment in search of a safe, sober, and supportive place to spend time together, he wasn’t planning to establish a downtown institution. At the time, Dueck said he was recovering from addiction and wanted a chem-free environment where youth could gather without pressure or temptation. He also completed a tour in Bosnia with the Canadian Armed Forces during that period, returning with a strengthened desire to create safe, positive spaces for young people at home. “As I met people and they wanted to come over to my apartment, I said, ‘I’m sorry, no booze and no drugs allowed. I cannot handle that temptation,’” Dueck recalled. “It was amazing — people totally respected that.” What he expected to be nothing more than a handful of friends watching movies on weekend nights quickly grew into something much larger. “I thought it would be me and five guys hanging out watching a movie,” he said. “It ended up being 50 or 60 people.” As attendance grew, the gathering earned a name of its own. A sign placed in the window to help visitors find the apartment led youth to begin calling it “Joe’s Place,” and the name stuck. Dueck then recalled hosting a live band that drew “over 300 youth” and quickly exceeded what the apartment — not to mention his landlord — could accommodate. Joe’s Place next relocated to a former Church of God building at 214 Fairford Street West, where the organization formalized its operations as a registered
charity and established a board of directors. As the organization expanded, Dueck said concerns followed — first from parents, and later from the broader community. “I was a teenager myself at the time. Some parents were concerned about what was going on in this guy’s apartment,” he said. “They would come over … and realize that we had different adult youth leaders from church youth groups and Briercrest College students doing their field education or their internships. They realized, ‘Oh, this is actually supervised and really organized,’ and they would say, ‘All right, have fun, kids.’” When Joe’s Place moved into its current home at 402 Main Street North through a generous agreement with the building’s former owner, similar concerns surfaced — this time focused on the downtown location itself. “There was a lot of concern that we would bring a whole bunch of graffiti to the downtown and more crime, because teens were now hanging out on Main Street,” Dueck said. Rather than dismiss those fears, he took deliberate steps to address them, installing video surveillance and having a security team regularly monitor nearby streets and alleys. “Never once did we catch one of our youth doing anything negative,” he said. “It was always drunks from the bars walking down Main Street that would wreck the flower pots or whatever it might be.” Providing video footage helped shift perceptions, he said, and relationships with neighbouring businesses steadily improved.
The evolution of Joe’s Place offers “It was a process to prove that no, youth are not all up to no good — they a reminder that downtown service spaccan be really respectful. We made efforts es often face early skepticism, and that to … be good neighbours, and I think we trust can be built through accountability, open communication, and results that won all those people over.” Today, he said Joe’s Place is a fa- residents can see for themselves. Joe’s Place Youth Centre is located miliar and accepted presence downtown, supported by local businesses and ser- at 402 Main Street North. To learn more, visit JPYC.org vice clubs. “People know who we are and we’ve established that reputation now,” he said. “Those who have questions can talk to a youth and find out they’re having a blast making art in our art room or learning how to use a power tool in our workshop, and those concerns are pretty quickly alleviated.” Those outcomes extend beyond the building itself, including mentorship through volunteer Costumed characters and youth gather outside Joe’s Place teams and opportuni- Youth Centre during Sidewalk Days, offering a snapshot of the ties for youth to attend downtown space and its role in engaging local youth. Photo by: camps and retreats. Joe’s Place Youth Centre
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PAGE A26 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Sudoku #5 - Challenging 6 2
AHEAD, BEAR, BALK, BELLS, BRIGHT, BUBBLES, CELEBRATE, CHAMPAGNE, CHURCH, CLOCK, CLOSURE, CONFETTI COUNT, DAYS, EXPECTATIONS, FELLOWSHIP, FIREWORKS, LAST, MEMORIES MULE, MUSIC PAIL, PARTY, PEAR PIPE, SADNESS, SLIT, SORROW, TOOT, TRADITION, TRIUMPH, YEAR
ACROSS 1. Ancient marketplaces 5. Run off to wed 10. Found on rotary phones 14. Footnote note 15. French for “Our” 16. Data 17. Declaration 19. Cicatrix 20. East southeast 21. Belch 22. Reject 23. Indicates 25. Diner 27. Flop 28. Intensify 31. Slumber 34. Door 35. Purchase 36. Friends 37. Landslide detritus 38. River to the North Sea 39. Avenue (abbrev.) 40. Interior layout and furnishings 41. Great fear 42. “Holy _______!”
44. Hurry on foot 45. Spoken for 46. Pass away 50. English county 52. Not thin 54. Excavate 55. Exploded star 56. Tombstone 58. Assist illegally 59. Was laid up 60. Circle fragments 61. Sit for a photo 62. Tally 63. Encounter DOWN 1. Dismissed 2. Overweight 3. Above the horizon 4. Big fuss 5. Accustomed 6. Asian aquatic plant 7. Ear-related 8. Dissenter 9. Evening (poetic) 10. Get rid of 11. Untreatable 12. At a distance 13. Forsaken
18. Abatement 22. Remain 24. Lyric poems 26. Anagram of “Care” 28. Enlist 29. Big brass 30. Got a good look at 31. Junk E-mail 32. Molten rock 33. Optional school courses 34. Quirky 37. Arid 38. Sea eagle 40. Apollo astronaut Slayton 41. Teals and mallards 43. Martial art 44. Ebb 46. Scuba user 47. Love intensely 48. Subsequently 49. Cast out 50. Break in two 51. Vagabond 53. Angelic headgear 56. Petrol 57. Flat hat
3
8
5 3 9 9 8 2 6 1 9 2 5
1
9 3 6 1 6 7
8 4 7 1
© 2025 KrazyDad.com
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9. If you 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.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A27
Riverhurst, SK Dec 31, 2025 8:36 pm Female 8 lbs, 6 oz
Caronport, SK Jan 2, 2026 10:45 am Female 5 lbs, 10 oz
Moose Jaw, SK Jan 3, 2026 1135 Male 7 lbs, 5 oz
CLASSIFIED ADS
reached at 306-313-3439. Wanted: Unwanted Lionel Train Sets, accessories, and rolling stock. 027 gauge. Steam locomotives preferred. Please call 306-526-0016.
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,
200 LOST & FOUND
LOST CAT - $1000 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.
Sudoku #6 - Challenging 3 4 7 5 2 1 6 9 8 2 6 8 4 7 9 1 5 3 1 5 9 3 8 6 7 2 4 4 2 1 7 3 8 9 6 5 6 9 5 1 4 2 8 3 7 8 3 6 9 5 4 1 2 7 8 6 7 3 4 9 5 1 2 9 7 4 2 1 3 5 8 6 8 3 6 9 5 4 2 7 1 1 8 5 9
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-- Andy Warhol --
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1
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Walker for sale, brand new. Asking $200. Please call 306-642Mobility 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 N E W $3995.00. Call 306694-1322 for more information.
Sudoku #5 - Challenging 8 4 7 5 1 3 2 9 6 7 1 3 9 8 4 5 6 2 5 3 9 2 4 6 7 1 8 1 9 2 8 3 4 6 7 5 4 6 8 5 2 7 1 9 3 5 7 1 6 9 8 4 2 3 7 1 5 9 8 3 2 6 4 9 4 3 6 1 2 5 8 7 2 6 4 7 5 9 3 1
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$45 and up. Junk to the dump $60/load. 45-gallon plastic barrels, great for rainwater, $25 each. 1000 Litre plastic totes $50. 45-gallon metal barrels, $15 each. 306-681-8749 Carley’s Cleaning Services discounts available for seniors. Bondable and insured. Please call 306-513-8889 to book.
Moose Jaw, SK Jan 3, 2026 17:50 am Male 7 lbs, 7 oz
2 6 3 7 4 8 7 3 1 6 9 5 1 4 8 2 9 5
Looking for unwanted media records, video games, VHS tapes, CD’s, and stereo equipment. Will pick up, 306-527-7786 or 306631-8399. Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be
Moose Jaw, SK Jan 2, 2026 8:51 am Female 9 lbs, 2 oz
8
205 WANTED
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Sudoku #7 - Tough 8 7 5 4 3 9 1 4 6 2 9 1 8 5 5 3 2 6 7 1 9 8 2 9 1 5 6 4 7 4 5 3 2 9 8 1 6 8 7 4 2 3 5 9 8 6 3 2 7 6 7 1 4 9 5 3 3 4 7 8 1 6
Moose Jaw, SK Dec 30, 2025 3:35 pm Male N/A
Lisa & Zac Ashdown
2
Minny John & Ashish Babu
PAGE A28 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
MURRAY JAMES MCWILLIAMS AUGUST 2, 1947 – DECEMBER 10, 2025
With hearts full of gratitude for a life well lived, we remember Murray James McWilliams, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, British Columbia. Surrounded by the love of his devoted wife of 38 years, Sandra, Murray departed this world at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and meaningful connection. Murray was born on August 2, 1947, in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. He spent his early years in Briercrest, Saskatchewan, attending middle school there and growing up on the family farm. Those formative years instilled in him a strong work ethic, humility, and values that would guide him throughout his life. As a young man, Murray moved to Regina, where he built a long and dedicated career. He worked with Westank Willock, SaskPower, and later SaskEnergy, earning the respect of colleagues through his commitment and integrity. Murray retired in 2005 after many years of devoted service. In 2015, he embraced a new chapter, relocating to Duncan, British Columbia, where he spent his retirement years. Wherever Murray went, he collected people. He had a rare gift for connection and an easy warmth that drew others in. Through his kindness, humour, and genuine interest in those around him, he touched countless lives. Murray was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud uncle, and a loyal friend. His faith was central to who he was - an unwavering presence that guided his life and remained with him wherever he went. Murray was a remarkable example of kindness and generosity. He had a rare gift for meeting people where they were, accepting them fully, and trusting deeply - even when it was not easy. He taught life’s lessons freely and treated everyone with respect, leaving the world better than he found it. His warmth, guidance, and unwavering compassion will be remembered and cherished. Murray is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra; his son, Lucas McWilliams of Regina, Saskatchewan; his sister, Sandra (Jim) White; brothers-in-law: Les (Sharon Harpe) Milos, John (Pam) Milos, Rob (Barb) Milos; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him deeply. Murray was predeceased by his brothers, David McWilliams and Grant McWilliams. A Celebration of his Life will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 24, 2026 at Sands Funeral Chapel - Duncan, 187 Trunk Road, Duncan, BC. For Live Streamed Service, please use the following link: https://www.youtube.com/live/ntpm1Y4brPk Murray will be fondly remembered for the many lives he touched, the relationships he cherished, and the quiet strength of his faith. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. To express condolences, share memories and photos, please visit: www.sandsduncan.ca
Sands of Duncan, 250-746-5212
TRINITY UNITED CHURCH 277 Iroquois St W Moose Jaw, SK Next Service: Jan 11th, 2026 10:30am Rev. Doug Shepherd
There is a magnet in your heart that will attract true friends. That magnet is unselfishness, thinking of others first; when you learn to live for others, they will live for you. -- Paramahansa Yogananda
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A29
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.
Wax & Wane
We were driving on our own twinkle tour on the December 25th evening with the grandchildren when Scottie piped up, “Look, the moon is smiling at us.” Yes, a crescent moon was high in the sky and looked like a smile on Christmas Night. I wonder how many people even notice the moon on most evenings. Many in Canada have lost the wonder and awe at the objects in the heavens because they no longer pay much attention to the movement of celestial bodies. On Saturday, January 3rd there was a full moon. Were you aware of it? The moon undergoes a regular cycle, its apparent shape changing as it orbits the earth. Starting with a new moon (the dark side facing the earth), earth’s natural satellite waxes and wanes over 29.5 days before beginning the cycle again. Wax and wane have been partnered in reference to the moon since the Middle Ages. The verb wax is used to indicate an increase of the
phase or intensity of the moon, satellites, and planets. Wax comes from the Old English word weaxan (to grow, be fruitful, increase) which was derived from the Germanic wahsan (to grow). Wax is also a homograph. A homograph is defined as words that are spelled the same (and sometimes sound the same) but have different, unrelated origins. The noun wax is a substance that is secreted by bees and is used by them for constructing the honeycomb. The wax of bees is a dull yellow plastic like solid when warm. Wax is used to describe various substances resembling the texture of beeswax. The noun wax comes from the Old English word weax, from the Germanic wahs (beeswax). Wane, on the other hand, indicates a diminishing in phase or intensity of the moon. Wane comes from the Old English word wanian, derived from the Germanic wanon (to lessen). Wax and wane have also been used in English to imply an increase or decrease in many things, not just the moon. Wax means to increase in size, numbers, strength, prosperity, or intensity. The commitment of the volunteers seems to wax when the needs become well known. Wane means to decrease in size, extent, or degree. Many parents are anxious for students to return to school in the waning days of summer. Wax also suggests to assume a characteristic, quality, or state. In her speech before the assembly the honour student waxed poetically. Wane suggests to fall gradually from power, prosperity, or influence. The scandal caused the prime minister to wane in popularity. Synonyms of wax include expand, rise, and swell. Expand means to make greater in size, amount, or number. The couple had to find a new venue for the wedding reception as the list of guests kept expanding. To rise suggests to become larger in extent, volume, or quantity. As the storm continued the snow
was rising at a shocking rate. Swell implies bigger development of degree, bulk, or total. Once the membership fees dropped the curling club swelled in membership. Abate, subside, ebb, and wane all indicate to die down in force or intensity. Abate stresses the idea of progressive diminishing. After a few hours the snow accumulation abated over the afternoon hours. Subside implies the ceasing to turbulence or agitation. The protests against the government’s decision subsided after a few days. Ebb means the receding of something that commonly comes and goes. The ebbing of daylight varies greatly in Saskatchewan over the seasons due to the angle of sundown. Wane alludes to the fading or weakening of something good or impressive. As the hockey season kept going many of the fans developed waning enthusiasm. Christmas celebrations have waxed and waned around the December 25th date at different times over the centuries. Many ages ago the celebrations waxed starting on Christmas Eve and only waned after the twelve days of Christmas (Dec 25 – Jan 5). Today celebrations wax near the beginning of December and wane immediately after Christmas Day. Hard to say when the future waxing and waning may take place. 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.
In photos: Senior residents at Chateau St. Michael’s share New Years resolutions Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Photos by: Chateau St. Michael’s
As 2025 gives way to 2026, New Year’s Eve brings a familiar tradition that invites people to pause, look ahead, and set resolutions for a hopeful new start. At Chateau St. Michael, the tradition was
marked with a light-hearted activity that saw several senior residents write their New Year’s resolutions on whiteboards and pose for photos, allowing their handwritten messages to speak for themselves. The resolutions reflected a wide range of hopes and intentions, from staying active and keeping busy to embracing gratitude, positivity, and a slower pace of life. These resolutions included a few charmingly prac-
tical goals such as getting up earlier, maintaining routines, or continuing habits that bring comfort and structure to daily life. As the year turns, these handwritten mes-
sages stand as a gentle reminder that every chapter, no matter when it’s written, still leaves room for intention, optimism, and a smile.
Please include the Moose Jaw Health Foundation in your estate plan to help your community for generations to come. Please contact us for more information. Moose Jaw Health Foundation 55 Diefenbaker Drive Moose Jaw, SK S6J 0C2 Phone (306) 694-0373
www.mjhf.org
PAGE A30 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com Moose Jaw Town and Singles dance will be held on January 10, 2026 at Church of Our Lady Community Centre566 Vaughan St. W. from 2:00 - 5:00 PM. Band is Dennis Ficor. Come on out for an afternoon of fun! Married couples are welcome! Cost is $15pp. For more information contact Marion at 306-6301492. STS Moose Jaw Superannuated Teachers LUNCHEON will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at the Masonic Temple Hall. 10:30 – 11:00 Coffee Chat - circulate and connect with past colleagues/11:00 - Program: Michelle Gallagher – Travel/12:00 - Roast Beef Dinner- Catered by Charlottes/12:45 - Meeting for those of you who wish to stay/Cost: $20.00 per STS member and spouse. $25.00 for non-members. Please RSVP to Rosalie by Saturday, January 17, 2026, @ 306-6910696, email: stsmoosejaw@gmail.com, or click on the link in your latest STSMJ Newsletter. (If you haven’t received your newsletter, please check your junk/spam mail or follow the directions on www.stsmoosejaw.com. Square One Community 50’s, 60’s, 70’s Comfort Singers Concert and Dessert Party will be held on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026 @7pm at Zion United Church 423 Main St. N. Dessert to follow the concert and WINTER WARM-UP RAFFLE DRAW. Tickets: $25pp via Cash and E-transfer. To reserve your tickets, please email us at: communitysquareone@gmail.com. Please include your name and the number of tickets you require. If paying via e-transfer, kindly include “Concert Tickets” in the memo field. All proceeds go to Square One Community’s Supportive Housing Program. We aren’t just providing a roof; we are providing a future. Moose Jaw Town ‘N Country Mall FREE Mall Scavenger Hunt! January 5 – January 10. Join for a free, fun scavenger hunt throughout Town N Country Mall! How it works: Register at the Town N Country Mall Office/ Or email gail@ptccyvr/ Receive your hunt form & rules/ Participate on any one day during the 6-day event//fun for all ages! Prizes awarded in different categories. Crib Tournament on Saturday, January 17 | 10:00 AM. Only $12 to enter. Lite lunch provided. Register at the Town N Country Mall Office Or email gail@ptccyvr. Prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place. Plus mystery prizes! Moose Jaw Lawn Bowling on turf continues in Yara Centre Tuesday and Thursdays at 10am but taking a holiday break until Jan 6th. Cancelled for Jan 8 but resuming Tues & Thurs @10 Jan 13/26. Scottish Country Dancing has resumed at 7 pm on Thursdays @Timothy Eaton’s Centre, 510 Main St. N. No partner required. Ages 8 and up including grandparents. Contact: Val, 306-630-5790 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 mem-
bers of the band. Contact Michelle Carline at <mcarline@hotmail.com>
on our weight loss journeys. Visit www.tops. org for more information.
The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. At Zion church from Sept to May.
Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 693 Fairford St W. Contact: 306-692-5453 Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGIONBranch 59 Moose Jaw OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Friday 9:30am4:00pm LOUNGE HOURS: Effective January 2nd Sunday 11:00am – 3:00pm (when there’s Curling); Monday 1:00pm – 9:00pm; Tuesday 12:00pm – 5:00pm; Wednesday 1:00pm – 10:00pm; Thursday 10:00am – 10:00pm; Friday 1:00pm – 10:00pm; and Saturday 1:00pm – 6:00pm VETERANS MORNING COFFEE – Thursday @ 10am BINGO – Monday @ 6pm – Paper goes on sale @ 5pm CRIBBAGE – Tuesday @ 1:30pm LEGION DARTS – Thursday @ 7pm DROP IN SHUFFLEBOARD – Friday @ 7pm MEAT DRAW & CHASE THE ACE - Saturday @ 3pm - Everyone welcome LEGION CURLING – Sunday @ 10am @ Temple Gardens Curling Centre – Always looking for spares. The main (accessible) door to the lounge and parking lot is located at the rear of the building off 7th Avenue NW
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 306693-5705. Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: January, February, March, April and May. Meetings are held at Hillcrest Apostolic Church, Moose Jaw. Call or text 306 756 2819 Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. 2025-2026 Program on Monday nights from 7-9 pm at St. Margaret’s School, 449 5Th Ave NE. Dance in square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles, or doubles welcome! Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month status to take place on the third Friday of each month Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306-684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com. Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well: -Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/ Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord. Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw Nar-Anon Family Group) is a 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
Moose Jaw & District Seniors Assoc. Inc. Website – moosejawseniors.ca For more information Call: 306-694-4223 or Email: mjsenior@shaw.ca . The centre is now open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8am – 8pm and Tuesday, Friday 8am – 4pm Fitness Level & Indoor Walking Track open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Tuesday & Friday’s 8am4pm Wood working area – Monday to Friday 8 am – 4 pm Timothy Eaton Cafe open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Cinnamon Buns are on Thursday’s. Tuesday is pie day. Everyone is welcomed. Billiards open daily from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. as well as Monday, Wednesday & Thursday evenings from 4:30 – 8 p.m. Pickle Ball – Monday Thursday mornings @ 9 a.m./Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday afternoons @ 1 p.m- Monday & Thursday evenings @ 7 pm Skills & Drills – Tuesday @ 6pm Fitness- Chair/Low Impact Fitness Tuesdays 11:30 & Thursdays @ 1:00 p.m. Cribbage – Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. Hand & Foot Card Game for Beginners – Thursday @9:30 am. Mah Jong – Wednesday @1 p.m. Beginners is Monday @1pm Tai Chi – Starting November 25 @9am every Tuesday Line Dancing – Wednesday @ 11 a.m. Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m. Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m. Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m. Quilting – Every Tuesday & Friday 9am to 4pm, Lounge – Friday’s 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m. Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm Tuesday Cards – 6:30pm
Floor Curling – Fridays @ 1pm Bingo – Monday afternoons 1:30pm -3:30pm and Wednesday evenings 6:30pm8:30pm Darts – Wednesday’s @ 10am Consignment Area – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-3pm, Wednesdays 10am-12pm Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre Weekly Activities – 235 3rd Ave. N.E. Phone 306.692.6072 or email cosmo@sasktel.net. Check them out on Facebook. Monday: Indoor Walking – 10:45am to 12:30p.m/10:45a.m. Beginner line dance/ Pickleball 9am/Shuffleboard 1pm/Pickleball 8:30a.m. Tuesday: 9:30am-Jam Session/1pmPickleball/7pm-Friendship Bridge/7pmBeginners Only Pickleball/ Indoor Walking - 8:15am and 11:30am Wednesday: 8:30am-TOPS/8:30amPickleball/10:45q.m. Fitness Class/1pmFloor Shuffleboard/ Indoor Walking 11:30am/ Pickleball 3:45pm and Beginner Pickleball 7:00pm Thursday: 10am-Line Dance/10:30a.m. Euchre/1pm-Pickleball/ Indoor Walking 8:15am and 12:00pm/ Hand/Foot Canasta - 1:30pm/Beginner Pickleball - 3:15pm and Advanced Pickleball - 6:30pm Friday: Pickleball 8:30a.m./ Indoor Walking – 10:45am to 12:30am Saturday: Advanced Pickleball 9:30am/10:45 Cornhole/Pickleball - 1:00pm Monday, January 19 - Coffee Chat with Service Canada/CRA 10:30am - 12:00pm. All Service Canada/CRA topics up for discussion, including anything income tax. Moose Jaw ANAVETS: Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans Unit #252 – 279 High St. W, Moose Jaw. 306.692.4412 or anaf252@ sasktel.net • Every Monday and Tuesday 1 – 6:30 pm • Wednesday 12 – 6:30 pm/Smear starts at 12:30 pm • Thursday 12 – 6:30 pm/Crib starts at 1:30 pm. Bring a friend or sign up for spare • Friday 1 – 10:00 pm/Shuffleboard starts at 1 pm. Bring a friend and join in!/Pool and darts start at 7 pm. • Saturday 1 – 6:30 pm/Drop in pool in afternoon. Meat draws start at 4:30 pm - 10 draws, 4 free draws, drink tickets, gift card, 50/50. Everyone Welcome! FRATERNAL ORDER OF EAGLES #3395 EVERY THURSDAY: Ladies Auxiliary “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 5:30 pm, draws start at 6:00 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, “Chase the Ace” EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace” MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. Partners draw from those attending to play. FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting - 7:00 pm Western Development Museum; 50 Diefenbaker Drive, Moose Jaw. For more information, visit the museum’s website at WDM. ca/Moose-Jaw. Call 306-693-5989 or email ajones@wdm.ca.
MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • PAGE A31
381 Wood Lily Dr
867 Willow Ave
27 Indigo Cres
$599,900
$159,900
$775,000
1107 Connaught Ave
306-694-4747 324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK
Derek McRitchie (306) 631-1161 E.G. (Bub) Hill (306) 631-9966 Tanya Minchin (306) 630-6231 Cassie Nichol (306) 631-0691 Justin Hammer (306)684-4266
REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR®
Beautiful tiled formal dining room with cascading 2-bedroom home, many practical updates, blending Beautiful 2 storey home, spacious foyer, l2pc bathroom waterfall, grand kitchen, large island, gas stove, stainless comfort with functionality. Recent upgrades include , living room gas fireplace, main floor bedroom, large steel appliances, granite countertops, walk in pantry, a new electrical service and panel , hot water heater , kitchen, counterspace, eat-up island, grand dining living room stoned gas fireplace, hardwood flooring, new asphalt shingles , main floor features a cozy room, private deck, spacious mudroom, double partially covered deck, lower deck, pergola, patio and living area, a well-maintained kitchen and bath, attached and heated garage,up stairs, cozy nook, gazebo, Master Bedroom,ensuite 2nd bedroom, full bedroom, while the upper level open loft-style primary bedroom, walk-in closet, spacious en-suite, bathroom, ower level, in-floor heat, family area,2 bedroom, partially finished basement, large laundry room, 2 more bedrooms, 3pc bathroom,ower recreation room and ample storage options. level, family, bedroom, a full bathroom, large patio! bedrooms, 3pc bathroom, DBL attached garage!
$174,900
White picket fence, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, over 1200 sq/ft of living space, blend of modern updates and original character. veranda, spacious living and dining area, well-designed kitchen, bath, upper level 3 bedrooms, lower level presents great potential ,storage, utilities, and laundry, back deck, fully fenced, mature back yard, one-car garage, Recent updates, new flooring on the main level and freshly painted bedrooms upstairs!
www.moosejawrealestate.net
Travelling Bakery owner advances in Greatest Baker Challenge as public voting continues Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Momentum continues to build for Michael Huehn, owner of The Travelling Bakery, as he advances deeper into the Greatest Baker Challenge where public voting determines who moves on. As of the morning of Jan. 2, Huehn said he was holding first place, though his position continued to fluctuate as votes were cast. The current round began Dec. 31 and runs for one week, with final results set to be determined on Jan. 7. Placement in this round carries added significance, as first place advances while a secondplace finish sends a competitor into a short wildcard round — offering one more chance to stay in the competition. “This round is really important,” he said. “The person who winds up in first place in this round goes to the quarterfinals.” Following the next update on Jan. 7, a wildcard round will run from Jan. 8 to 11, with votes resetting, second-place finishers from Group Finals competing, and one competitor per group advancing. Those contestants who made it directly to quarterfinals will compete from Jan. 12 to 21 before semifinals from Jan. 22 to 28. Finals will take place from Jan. 29 to Feb. 4, with the grand prize winner announced around Feb. 20. Unlike traditional competitions, the Greatest Baker Challenge is conducted entirely online and is decided by public voting rather than a panel of judges — a
format Huehn said has encouraged some experimentation. “The choice (on what to make and how many images to post online) is entirely ours,” he said. “I actually do like this format because it … makes me go outside of the box. … This has pushed me to look at different types of baking, so it’s not just the same stuff that people have seen from Mike over the past four or five years. … It expands my repertoire and it’s a lot of fun.” For the upcoming round, Huehn plans to submit several new baked items, including a multi-layer “spill cake,” French pastries, and other confections designed to showcase versatility. He is also revisiting techniques he hasn’t used in years, including French pastries such as vol-au-vents, as well as caramel-filled tarts and squares. Huehn said the open format has allowed him to demonstrate his range of talents by including savoury baking alongside traditional desserts. “I don’t think that all baking has to be sweet,” he said. “It can also be savoury.” Regardless of the outcome, several items developed during the competition will carry over into The Travelling Bakery’s regular menu offerings. “I made pavlovas, which I’ve never done before for this … it’s like a tiny meringue cookie,” Huehn said. “That is something that we’re going to do with
The Travelling Bakery.” Under the contest’s official rules, vote totals are not disclosed to competitors, with advancement determined solely by relative ranking within each round. While he cannot see who voted or even how many votes he has received, Huehn said local support has been encouraging. “There have been a couple of people who sent me a mesA pavlova wreath created by Michael Huehn of The sage saying, ‘Hey Mike, I’m Travelling Bakery is shown as part of his submissions voting every day for you,’ for the Greatest Baker Challenge. His entries have which is great,” he said. “It’s been photographed by his wife, Nicole. Photo by: Nivery, very much appreciated.” cole Huehn The Greatest Baker Challenge is associated with Bake from lies of children facing cancer. To learn Scratch and is operated as a fundraiser, more, visit GreatestBaker.org. Updates and voting information are with optional donation-based votes supavailable through Huehn’s Facebook porting the Andrew McDonough B+ page, “Travelling Bakery.” Foundation and its work assisting fami-
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PAGE A32 • MOOSEJAWEXPRESS.COM • Wednesday, January 7, 2026
Temporary equine quarantine in place at Exhibition Grounds as precaution Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
A temporary quarantine is now in effect at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds following the detection of illness in a single horse on site, with officials stressing the measure is precautionary and standard within the equine industry. According to Moose Jaw Exhibition Company office manager Mel Burns, the quarantine was implemented on Dec. 23 in accordance with established veterinary and regulatory guidelines after a horse housed at the grounds developed symptoms and later tested positive for equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) following its death. Burns emphasized the situation is being handled under existing protocols set out by multiple governing bodies and does not represent a broader risk to facility users or the general public. “That’s just following the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) guidelines regarding quarantine of horses,” she said. “There are, of course, several governing bodies in Canada and in Saskatchewan that provide those guidelines for us, and we do follow those.” Guidance is being taken from
Equine Canada, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, Saskatchewan Agriculture, and the facility’s onsite veterinarian. The quarantine is expected to remain in place until Jan. 13, provided no new cases are identified. “The Exhibition Company’s vet recommended that date to us,” Burns
said, noting that the timeline aligns with established industry protocols. During the quarantine period, enhanced biosecurity measures are being followed as part of standard horse management practices. Burns noted the virus involved is not zoonotic, meaning it does not transmit between species. “There’s no masking (requirement) because … people can’t get it from horses, and horses can’t give it to people,” she said. “We can transmit it (to another horse) on our clothing and things like that, so yes, you do have to follow proper biosecurity, which should be part of your horse management anyways.” Once the quarantine is lifted, the facility will undergo a thorough cleaning and disinfection process. “Once the quarantine is lifted, of course, the facilities will be thoroughly disinfected to reduce the possibility of transmission from this outbreak,” Burns said. “We’re going to take the very best care we can.” Burns added these precautions are typical across equine facilities and are not unique to the Exhibition Grounds. EHV-1 is found worldwide and is
considered common in horse populations, with most horses exposed at some point in their lives, while clinical cases occur sporadically across Canada rather than as constant or widespread outbreaks. EHV-1 is a contagious virus that affects horses. Fever is typically the first sign, with symptoms most often including respiratory illness such as nasal discharge and coughing, and in some cases progressing to neurological symptoms including weakness, incoordination, and difficulty standing. The virus spreads through direct contact, nasal secretions, and contaminated clothing or equipment. There is no cure and treatment is supportive, with prognosis generally good for mild cases. To learn more, visit Saskatchewan.ca and search for “Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1).” Updates related to the quarantine are being shared through the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company’s Facebook page, “Moose Jaw Exhibition Company.” For further questions, call 306-692-2723.