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Moose Jaw Express, March 25, 2026

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DuffleBag Theatre to bring interactive fairy tales to Moose Jaw classrooms this spring

Several students across Moose Jaw will soon take centre stage as part of a provincewide theatre tour that turns classic stories into live, interactive performances.

The Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils (OSAC) Performing Arts in Schools program is presenting Ontariobased DuffleBag Theatre at 23 schools across the province from April 13 to May 4, including three stops in Moose Jaw on May 4.

Local performances are scheduled for Ecole Palliser Heights School, Lindale School, and Coteau Hills Elementary, where students from kindergarten to Grade 8 will have the chance to participate directly in the shows.

Known for its improvisational style, DuffleBag Theatre invites audience members on stage to play key roles in familiar tales such as Beauty and the Beast and The Three Musketeers. No participants are selected in advance, with actors instead choosing volunteers in real time and guiding them through each scene.

The result is a performance shaped by the students themselves.

“The ‘nearly world-famous’ DuffleBag Theatre … adapts fairy tales and classic stories using members of the audience in the main parts, thereby creating a spon-

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

year across Canada, the United States, and internationally.

The group is no stranger to Saskatchewan audiences, having previously toured with OSAC, most recently in 2018.

“This was an amazing performance. We loved the way the actors interacted with the students by choosing students to play key parts. The humour was amazing — some for the students and some for the adults,” a testimonial from Fairview School in Swift Current noted.

taneous and energizing theatre experience for audiences of all ages,” an OSAC media release stated.

Improvisation drives each performance, with actors adapting to students’ reactions and choices. Organizers say it keeps audiences engaged while fostering creativity and confidence.

Both productions on this year’s tour are available in English or bilingual formats, with a narrator able to incorporate French at a level suited to each school’s needs.

DuffleBag Theatre has been performing since 1992, beginning at the London International Children’s Festival in Ontario. Now based in Toronto, the company stages more than 600 performances each

OSAC, which has been connecting communities with arts programming for more than 50 years, works with schools and local arts councils in more than 80 communities across Saskatchewan. Its school touring program reached nearly 17,000 students and teachers during the 2024–25 season alone.

School-based performances are not open to the general public, but those interested in attending are encouraged to contact OSAC in advance to make arrangements.

For more information, contact Rosemary McCallum, performing arts and school tours manager, at 306-586-1258 or by email at Rosemary@osac.ca To learn more about OSAC, visit OSAC.ca.

A promotional banner showcases DuffleBag Theatre’s upcoming tour, set to bring interactive storytelling and student-led performances to Moose Jaw schools this spring. Photo by: Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils/Supplied

Young entrepreneurs take centre stage at first Town ’N’ Country Mall youth market

What began as a small idea to encourage youth participation quickly exceeded expectations on March 14, as dozens of young vendors filled the Town ‘N’ Country Mall for its first Young Entrepreneurs Market.

Organized by mall event co-ordinator Gail Hoffos, the one-day initiative brought together 32 entrepreneurs aged 16 and under — more than triple the number initially anticipated — offering everything from handmade crafts and baking to custom apparel and handforged tools.

“Well, I started the Young Entrepreneurs Market just trying to get some kids out, and I really thought I would get maybe 10 kids. This is just blowing up — we have 32 here today,” Hoffos said.

The market was Hoffos’ first youthfocused vendor event, building on her experience with regular mall trade shows while creating a space for young people to gain hands-on experience selling products, interacting with customers, and building confidence.

The event also included a guest appearance from a visiting entrepreneur who evaluated vendors in a format similar to the television program Dragon’s Den, selecting three participants for recognition based on originality and business potential. The winners were Krosby in first place, Shae in second,

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

“Yeah, it was pretty cool. I got to talk to her a bit, and she taught me some things,” he said.

Jackman said he would “definitely” return for a future market, noting that the entrepreneurial experience has gone “really well” so far.

Lachlan Winter

Fourteen-year-old Lachlan Winter travelled from Assiniboia to take part, bringing a collection of hand-forged knives, axes, and spears created through a self-taught blacksmithing process.

“I just saw it (done) on YouTube … so then I was like, ‘Oh, I kind of want to do that. That looks cool.’ Then I started doing it myself,” he said.

Winter explained that each piece is made from scratch using salvaged materials and traditional forging techniques.

“I get the metal and heat it up until it’s about an orange temperature. Then I hit it with a hammer on an anvil to get the rough shape that I want,” he explained.

and Carmyn in third.

Beyond sales, Hoffos said one notable outcome was seeing the young vendors grow in confidence.

“It’s so great to see the kids working together. Some of them were shy when they were first setting up their tables, but now I see them interacting with everybody, and it’s like, wow,” she said.

Feedback from participants has been “overwhelmingly positive,” with many already expressing interest in returning as plans move ahead for future markets. Hoffos noted that small adjustments — such as introducing a nominal vendor fee — could help participants better understand how markets operate while maintaining accessibility.

“Oh, my goodness, they are loving it. They

can’t wait to do this again,” Hoffos said. “I can’t wait until the next (market event), because they always grow bigger and better.”

Krosby Jackman

Among the vendors was 13-yearold Krosby Jackman, who showcased his growing golf apparel brand, L.I.D. Golf. He said the market provided a strong boost for his new apparel line.

“So I got the hats all laid out. I got the order in last week, and it’s definitely going really well. We sold about 25 hats just today,” he said during the March 14 event.

Since launching L.I.D. Golf, Jackman estimated that he had sold approximately 120 hats, with the market contributing significantly to that total. He was also awarded first place in the event’s Dragon’s Denstyle competition.

Winter said he has been developing his skills for about a year and hopes to continue building toward a future business. While he does not yet have a website or formal business name, he said that is something he hopes to establish in the near future.

For more information or to learn about upcoming vendor opportunities, call 306-693-1711 or email Gail@PTCCYVR.com.

Carmyn, right, stands with a visiting entrepreneur at her booth during the Young Entrepreneurs Market at Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 14, where she was awarded third place in the event’s Dragon’s Den-style competition.
Photo by: Gail Hoffos
Krosby, right, stands with a visiting entrepreneur during the Young Entrepreneurs Market at Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 14, where he was awarded first place in the event’s Dragon’s Den-style competition. Photo by: Gail Hoffos
Lachlan Winter, left, displays some of his hand-forged blades alongside a friend during the Young Entrepreneurs Market at Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 14.
Photo by: Aaron Walker

Young author showcases self-published book at mall entrepreneur market

At just 11 years old, Shae Siebring is already proving that creativity, determination, and a willingness to try something new can open unexpected doors.

Siebring was among the young vendors who set up shop during the Young Entrepreneurs Market at the Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 14, bringing with her a mix of handmade goods — and a self-published book that began as a simple idea at home.

“I’m featuring the book that I wrote ... along with handmade earrings and hand-drawn cards. I also do custom black-and-white cards for $3, where you can send a picture to my mom and I’ll draw it,” she said.

Her range of products included small potted plants arranged in teacups and teapots, a thoughtful touch aimed at upcoming occasions such as Mother’s Day.

Her efforts earned her second place in a Dragon’s Den-style feature at the event, though Siebring said the recognition came as a surprise.

“(The entrepreneur who was featured on Dragon’s Den) didn’t (specify why I was selected), but she said she really liked the project and what I had, because lots of kids nowadays don’t read or do that kind of stuff — they’re mostly just on their tablets,” she said.

Siebring’s journey into writing began close to home, inspired in part by

her mother’s own work as an author.

“I’m 11 now, and I published that when I was 10, after my mom (Courtney Siebring) published her second book. Her books are Little Spark of Life and Everybody Wonderfully Made. After she published those two, I decided to write this book,” she said.

The story was inspired by a moment during a drive home when Siebring spotted a striking horse standing alone in a pasture. The image later became the foundation for her main equine character.

“One day, when we were driving home from Denver, I saw this really beautiful pasture of horses, and there was this horse standing right up at the fence. He was pure black, and I thought he was a stallion. When I started thinking about the book, Phantom — this horse I had seen while we were driving — came to my mind, and I started writing about him,” she said.

Titled A Horse Called Phantom, the book follows the journey of a wild horse and reflects Siebring’s longstanding passion for riding and working with animals.

“I have always loved horses. I ride them,” she said, noting her training at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds.

She is already working on a sequel, though a timeline has yet to be set.

“Maybe not later this year, because I also have a lot going on with writing competitions and drawing competitions. But maybe next year, or even this fall,” she said.

The market gave Siebring an opportunity to test her work in a realworld setting, where the response proved encouraging.

“I started with 10 books, and I’m now down to four,”

she said before the market concluded. By the end of the day, she had sold out her table, while Hoffos noted several other vendors also sold out.

“I just wanted to say thank you for giving us this opportunity … it’s quite a

good idea,” she added.

Siebring does not yet have a website or social media presence. Her book, A Horse Called Phantom, is available on Amazon.ca.

Shae Sebring displays her self-published book, A Horse Called Phantom, during the Young Entrepreneurs Market at Town ‘N’ Country Mall on March 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Editor’s Note

The hope of the future depends on our investment today into our youth.

It’s a fact that people age and young people become young adults with careers. We know for certain that we won’t be around forever investing our energy into the things that will matter in a few years, as we age out of the workforce into retirement.

With every new generation, the ante is elevated and the level of brilliance seems to increase tenfold. Kids seem a lot smarter these days. I guess it is noticeable when we consider technology. A lot of older adults don’t want to even go there and try and learn but it comes easy for the young. Time is ticking by fast but we need to remember that we need to see and invest in our kids so

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

that they will be able to withstand the demands of the future in whatever capacity it is presented.

It’s a crazy world we live in. Life seemed so simple back then. Even way back to 20 or so years ago when pac man was the rage, it was hard to even manipulate my hands in sync to my brain. Life they say, “I could hardly chew gum and walk at the same time,” but nowadays kids are so multifaceted they can watch tv and play a video game and have an intelligent conversation on the iphone and even chew gum at the same time. I don’t think the brain gets bigger with every new generation but I do think the brain seems to function more highly with the demands of everyday life now. We lived a much simpler and quieter existence growing up. Life wasn’t as complicated or demanding.

Investing in the youth of today requires an approach on many fronts that includes financial resources, supportive environments and mentorship. Mentorship starts at home but grows to include peers and

others in the work world. Supportive environments foster both technical skills and emotional resilience. People need to be adaptable, have some digital literacy, and critical thinking to meet the demands of the constantly changing future. It’s imperative that individuals can think critically and solve problems… these are things that can’t be done by a robot or machine.

As parents and nurturers, we need to lead by example and display strong work ethics in daily life. Mental wellbeing is a priority that offers strong coping skills so youth can deal with the pressures of the work world.

Our youth have so much to give, it’s also imperative to include them in decision-making processes whether in our community or otherwise.

I’ve always liked this saying, “As the home goes, so goes the nation” so our investment into our children and youth starts at ground floor at home before it reaches outwardly.

Top six ways some show the city their “Love” in not a nice way

Beating up a parking meter for some ching-a-ling-a-ling or spray painting city property with some faux van Gogh inspiration are the two main ways some residents have shown their “love” for the city of Moose Jaw.

In statistics acquired through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request there was a request for all documents related to theft, wilful damage or misplaced items by third parties in the five year period from January 1, 2019 - January 28, 2026.

The city did not provide any in-depth documents about the thefts and vandalism although it was requested in the FOI.

Parking Meters Damage/Thefts Top List

In data the city lists thefts or damage to parking meters occurring 479 times during the five year period.

There are no annual breakdowns to the numbers in the documents to determine if the problem is on the rise or not.

The extensive damage to the parking meters has re-

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Editor: Joan Ritchie

Aaron Walker, Moose Jaw Reporter

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Randy Palmer, Contributor, MooseJawToday.com

Joyce Walter

Ron Walter

John Kreutzwieser

Patricia Hanbidge

Richard Dowson

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sulted in city council moving not to replace or use coin meters but rather go to a cashless system using smart phones and electronic only payments.

The move has drawn criticism from some in the community as it will be a barrier to people without smartphones - most notably seniors - to access services and goods downtown.

Although the FOI is only statistical and does not list the perpetrators of the parking meter damage, the thefts have become so brazen even the meters in front of the Moose Jaw Police Service on Fairford Street West have been targeted.

The FOI does not state how much money the rash of parking meter attacks has cost the city for repairs, replacements as well as lost income.

Graffiti Renoirs

The second most common damage or thefts to the city in the five-year period are graffiti incidents.

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The Moose Jaw Express does not under any circumstances accept responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of any ads or messages in any of the publications editions.

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Despite some claiming it is just art, the graffiti problems number in the hundreds of reported incidents. The number of incidents covering city owned property is 334 in the five-year period.

The figure does not take into account the number of private properties vandalized by spray bombs.

Public Greenspaces

The third largest incidents of thefts and vandalism happens in public parks, greenspaces and cemeteries. In the five-year period there were 149 incidents reported. There was no breakdown as to the costs, what areas and the degree of damage caused.

Other/Misc

The city did not quantify exactly what this type of thefts or damages could be. There is no dollar figure as to the losses - if any.

It could be something as simple as busting a window right up to major fraud.

Recycle/Garbage Containers

We’ve all seen them in back alleys and not put properly away so they were a bit of a target to thieves and/or vandals.

There is no value as to the losses - if any - to the city but nevertheless, it came in fifth in the list for the five year period.

Sign, Sign There Use To Be A Sign There

The sixth highest stolen or vandalized category in the last five years has been signage.

The city’s statistics record 21 instances involving signs. There is no cost breakdown but costing over $100 each to purchase and erect, it’s safe to say the city is out at least $2100 in the five year period.

https://www.mjindependent.com/newblog/2026/3/10/akf4l5ejcmawcym3s53g2hjvpicimk

Sidewalk Days to introduce new food court at this year’s festival

A long-standing piece of community feedback is driving a major addition to one of Moose Jaw’s signature summer events, with Sidewalk Days set to introduce a dedicated food court this year.

The annual downtown festival, scheduled for July 2 to 4, is introducing the new space in response to concerns about a lack of seating for attendees looking to enjoy food during the event.

“One of the complaints that we’ve heard about Sidewalk Days is that there’s nowhere to sit and eat unless you want to sit on the street,” said Everly Reid, sales and creative co-ordinator with Tourism Moose Jaw. “We understand that’s not always convenient, especially if you’re a senior or have kids with you.”

The food court will be located at the intersection of Main Street North and High Street West, with tables and chairs available for public use. Reid said the layout is designed to create a more accessible and comfortable space for festivalgoers.

“We want the food court to stretch onto High Street underneath those big, beautiful trees, so there will be some shade as well,” Reid said. “We know it’s often pretty hot during Sidewalk Days.”

The area is expected to feature a cluster of larger food trucks, while smaller vendors — such as mini-donut and beverage stands — will continue to operate throughout the broader festival footprint.

“This will be more of a place where people can get their lunch or supper and sit down to eat,” Reid said.

The initiative is being supported by local business Deja Vu restaurant, which has signed on as the food court sponsor and will also be among the vendors on site.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Photo by: Aaron Walker

The addition reflects a broader effort to enhance the overall festival experience while maintaining the event’s free, open-access format.

“It’s just like the rest of Sidewalk Days — completely free, and something we’re able to offer because of the generous sponsorship we received this year,” Reid said.

This year’s festival is presented by Purposed Financial Corp., with local partnerships continuing to support expanded programming and event features.

In addition to the food court, Sidewalk Days will feature a streamlined entertainment setup, with a single main stage located at John’s Music. Performers have not yet been fully announced, though The UnCoolas are expected to be part of the lineup.

Vendor applications remain open, with approximately 60 spots still available as of March 20. While there is no

fixed deadline, spaces are expected to fill quickly.

“We’ll take applications up until we sell out, but there’s no telling how soon that will happen,” she said.

A local service group is also being

sought to help maintain the food court seating area, including cleaning tables throughout the event. The role would involve keeping the space tidy and accessible as festivalgoers move through the area during peak mealtimes. In return, the selected group will receive a donation in support of its organization, continuing a long-standing approach to partnering with community groups to support event operations.

The addition of a centralized dining space reflects what Reid described as a simple but important goal — making the event more inclusive for all attendees, particularly seniors, families, and those who may find it difficult to navigate or sit along the street.

For more information, contact Tourism Moose Jaw at 306-693-8097 or visit the new dedicated Sidewalk Days Facebook page at “Tourism Moose Jaw Sidewalk Days Festival.” To inquire about volunteer opportunities or to register as a vendor, email MJSidewalkDays@ gmail.com.

‘It makes everyone feel like they matter’: Story of recovery underscores impact

For some in attendance at Square One Community Inc.’s “Walk for Warmth,” the annual fundraiser was more than a show of support — it reflected lived experiences, second chances, and the reality of rebuilding a life after homelessness.

That perspective came into focus during the March 14 wind-up gathering at Zion United Church, where housing support worker Tori May shared her personal journey and the role community support played in her recovery. Now working in the field, she said her role allows her to support others facing challenges similar to those she once experienced.

“I’m a housing support worker, and I have faced homelessness in my life and addictions,” May told attendees. “I believe supports in Moose Jaw are so important and beneficial for the city because (they create) a sense of safety, community, and care for adults and young teens (so they don’t feel so) alone.”

Aaron Walker

- Moose Jaw Express

The Walk for Warmth, which drew more than 100 participants through downtown Moose Jaw, raised close to $18,000 for Square One’s supportive housing program. The program is designed to help individuals transition out of homelessness through housing, case management, and access to essential services.

For May, those supports were once lifelines.

“When I experienced homelessness and trouble, all I wanted was a community to stand by me and believe in me,” she said. “That’s what I feel like we do for others, and we believe in them.”

Her story offered a personal lens on the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness, including isolation, stigma, and the difficulty of navigating recovery without consistent support.

of ‘Walk for Warmth’

“From my experience, there have been many out there who have helped me when I was a stranger … which I was so grateful for when I was out there struggling,” May said.

She described how access to basic services — including shelter, meals, detox supports, legal resources, and mental health and addiction counselling — can serve as a foundation for rebuilding stability. Equally important, she said, is the sense of dignity and belonging those services can provide.

“Eventually, I found that support in Moose Jaw where there was no judgment — just love, honesty, self-respect, and believing that I mattered to help and that I wasn’t just another person (who is) not worthy,” she said.

May also spoke to the importance of trust in the recovery process, noting that honesty can be one of the most difficult

Her story reflects a broader approach taken by Square One, which emphasizes relationship-building and longterm support as individuals work toward independence.

General manager Max Eckstein said those outcomes are made possible through a network of community partnerships and continued public support.

“We’re very grateful to the entire community for their support,” Eckstein said. “We really have a strong continuum of support between organizations here to provide an all-inclusive experience and support network for vulnerable people.”

That network, he said, allows individuals not only to access immediate help, but also to begin reconnecting with family, pursuing education or employment, and rebuilding a sense of purpose.

For participants, the walk served as a visible demonstration of that support.

“With many ways of offering support, people can feel less alone and better able to lean on supports in the community. Today, we can carry those (who) are struggling to get by,” May said.

As the event concluded, May left attendees with a message pointing to the value of community involvement.

“Being able to have support really helps a community like ours come together and it makes everyone feel like they matter,” she said.

To learn more, visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com, follow “Square One Community Inc. Moose Jaw” on Facebook, or email CommunitySquare-

Tori May, a housing support worker with Square One Community Inc., shares her experiences during the Walk for Warmth wind-up event at Zion United Church on March 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker

‘Walk for Warmth’ raises more than $20K for Square One housing programs

Square One Community Inc.’s annual Walk for Warmth has surpassed expectations this year, with updated figures confirming the March 14 fundraiser has raised more than $20,000 in support of local housing programs.

Participants gathered at William Milne Place before making their way through the downtown core, walking in support of individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The event brought together residents, volunteers, and community partners, concluding at Zion United Church.

Participants set out earlier in the afternoon this year, a shift organizers said still drew roughly 100 to 110 walkers. The route was designed to pass key community partner locations, including Willow Lodge and St. Aidan Anglican Church, reflecting the network of services connected to Square One’s work. The event concluded at Zion United Church, where attendees gathered for a wind-up program featuring speakers, acknowledgements, and prize presentations.

While early estimates placed this year’s total at approximately $18,000, Square One has now confirmed that $20,008.13 has been raised to date.

“Your donations will go directly to our supportive housing efforts,” the organization said in a statement following the event. “We thank you so much … on behalf of Square One board, staff, and fundraising committee … and most especially from the beautiful people we serve.”

Local unemployed reduced by one-third

Saskatchewan lost 4,000 jobs between February 2025 and this February, according to the Statistics Canada monthly survey of labour.

The unemployment rate of 5.8 per cent was up from 5.3 per cent.

The province added 14,000 workers with 10,000 more employed than the previous year and 4,000 without work.

Top three sectors gaining jobs in the province were health care and social assistance, gaining 7,200; other services, up 5,800; and construction, up 3,000 jobs.

Largest job losses in sectors were education services, dropping 8,100; transportation and warehousing, down 4,300; and manufacturing, down 3,000.

The Moose Jaw Swift Current re-

gion lost 3,000 workers during the year with fewer unemployed.

Losses to the labour force arise from people moving away, retiring, or no longer seeking work.

The number of unemployed in this region declined by one-third to 2,400.

The region’s unemployment rate of 4.5 per cent was the second lowest of five regions.

Lowest unemployment rate of 4.4 per cent was Yorkton-Melville.

Prince Albert Northern had the highest unemployment rate at 7.1 per cent, followed by Regina-Moose Mountain, 6.1 per cent; and Saskatoon-Biggar, 5.5 per cent.

Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

housing, case management, and a range of support services.

Organizers noted that donations are still being accepted as the campaign continues beyond the event. For more information, visit SquareOneHousingMooseJaw.com or email CommunitySquareOne@gmail.com.

The funds will support Square One’s supportive housing program, which provides individuals transitioning out of homelessness with access to

THURSDAY, APRIL 16

STARTING AT 7:30PM

Max Eckstein, at podium, addresses participants in the basement social hall at Zion United Church following the Walk for Warmth on March 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Participants turn onto Main Street North from Athabasca Street East, heading toward Zion United Church for the wind-up presentation on the afternoon of March 14. Photo by: Aaron Walker

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

Sale of my vehicle won’t be discussed with husband Reflective Moments

The sun was finally peeking through the clouds, and the day ahead had a feeling of positivity, that something exciting might be waiting somewhere close by.

My cell phone rang, showing an unknown caller. I answered, cautiously, being ready to get rid of the scammers who might have a sweepstakes for me, if only I would answer “yes” to questions and agree to spend a goodly sum so a foreign princess could receive her inheritance.

But no, the voice was pleasant and immediately identified himself, him being an agent/sales person for a car dealership. We chatted a bit about the weather, how long he would be in Moose Jaw and what day would be suitable for me to meet him for a chat.

I knew he was after my red vehicle and correct I was. He had the make and model, the year of purchase and other details that would have been on the sales receipt when I made my purchase of my 2019 replacement for a similar vehicle that had been totalled

VILLAGE OF DRINKWATER

Box 66, Drinkwater, SK S0H 1G0

Phone: 306-693-5093

Email: villageofdrinkwater@sasktel.net

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the VILLAGE OF DRINKWATER for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the o ce of the assessor from March 18 to April 20 on Mondays from 11 am to 6 pm.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required. All fees must be submitted to the local assessor at the VILLAGE OF DRINKWATER. All appeals must be led with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, which can be sent electronically to: secretary@westernmunicipal.ca, or via post/mail to VILLAGE OF DRINKWATER, P.O. Box 66, Drinkwater, SK S0H 1G0, and forwarded to the Secretary of the Board of Revision.

Any person wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the assessor at the VILLAGE OF DRINKWATER, P.O. Box 66, Drinkwater, SK S0H 1G0. A notice of appeal, accompanied by the $500 for residential and $1000 for Commercial properties appeal fee, which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be submitted by the April 20, 2026. Dated this 18th day of March, 2026

Melody Dixon-Lye Assessor

when I was T-boned by another driver.

I expressed my happiness with the vehicle, and noted my disappointment that the manufacturer no longer made this model. He commiserated with me a bit then got down to business.

What kind of vehicle might I be interested in? I named off two choices and I knew he was making notes. Again he wondered when we could meet faceto-face.

I felt it necessary to tell him I wasn’t really interested in getting rid of my red ride.

But I said I would think over his proposal, knowing full well that my thinking would be short-lived. Unless I won a gift card for a new vehicle, I would chug along quite happily.

After saying I would think about it, he said: “You go ahead and discuss it with your husband and then call me.”

I know my blood pressure rose, but I did not record just how high it climbed.

“Why would I have to discuss it with my husband,” I asked with a certain amount of steel in my

NOTICE OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MAPLE BUSH NO. 224

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the Rural Municipality of Maple Bush No. 224 for 2026 has been prepared and will be open for inspection, on March 12th, 2026, at the O ce of the Administrator for the municipality, until the time for lodging appeals has expired, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday inclusive.

A bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices will be sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to le his or her notice of appeal, in writing, to the Secretary of the Board of Revision for the RM of Maple Bush No. 224, by the 13th day of April, 2026: Outlook-Rudy District Board of Revision PO Box 341, Shaunavon SK S0N 2M0 rhondabellefeuille@gmail.com

An appeal fee of $500.00, for each assessment being appealed, is refundable if the appeal is successful and all appeal fees shall be sent to:

Rural Municipality of Maple Bush No. 224 PO Box 160 Riverhurst SK S0H 3P0

Dated this 12th day of March, 2026.

JoAnne Wandler, Assessor

voice. “That vehicle is registered in my name, I paid for it myself and I pay the maintenance bills. Why would I need to discuss it with my husband?”

That Housemate husband was sitting there, at the table with me, with a smirk on his face.

The caller seemed stunned by my response. But he didn’t interrupt when I pointed out what century we are in, and that after that comment I would never agree to hear any more and he had lost a possible sale.

He sputtered a bit when I told him another dealership in the city had lost the chance to sell me a vehicle — twice by different sales people — when they gave Housemate the answers to my questions, offered him the keys for a test drive and made out papers for my purchase in his name.

As I talked about those instances, I know my voice rose. And Housemate’s smirk grew.

The caller thanked me for my time and we disconnected.

And then I vented my frustration, loudly to Housemate, even though it wasn’t his fault that others of his gender are still living in the 19th century. Of course I wouldn’t run out and buy a new car without giving him advance notice of my intention. But it would be a declarative notice, not a request for permission. Ditto for any new car he might buy.

I am perfectly capable of kicking tires all by myself.

I do hope the caller learned a valuable customer service lesson from our short interaction. He is probably a congenial fellow in person but I will never know. Such a pity.

I fumed the rest of the day. Housemate just grins.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

The friend who can be silent with us in a moment of despair or confusion, who can stay with us in an hour of grief and bereavement, who can tolerate not knowing... not healing, not curing... that is a friend who cares. -- Henri Nouwen --

AVE NE

New beginnings, familiar flavours: Anu Ghai brings a second chapter to Moose Jaw with Desi Bites

For Anu Ghai, opening the doors to her new restaurant in Moose Jaw is the start of what she calls “the second chapter of my life.”

Ghai, the owner of Desi Bites, officially opened the restaurant on Feb. 13, bringing with her decades of culinary experience shaped across continents, personal hardship, and a desire to start over.

“I’m starting with a big dream because this is my second chapter of life — and my last chapter as well, as I am now in my 50s,” she said. “So I want to think big.”

Ghai’s journey into the kitchen began in India, where she completed three years of formal training before working nearly a decade in a three-star hotel.

“I worked there for about nine to 10 years,” she said. “Then I immigrated to Canada in 2006, and it took me about two years to understand the whole system.”

After settling in Alberta, Ghai worked in the food industry before opening her own family restaurant, which she operated for about 10 years. However, a personal tragedy forced her to step away.

“Then a few things happened in the family — a tragedy,” she said. “I tried to keep going through that pain, but with the help of my doctors, I decided to step away. Then I wanted a fresh start.”

That fresh start ultimately led her to Moose Jaw, where an opportunity to lease a restaurant space prompted a visit and ultimately a decision to stay.

“One of my friends told me there was an opportunity,” she said. “There was a restaurant available for lease, so I came and checked it out.”

Aaron

Walker - Moose Jaw Express

At Desi Bites, Ghai offers a menu rooted in traditional Indian cuisine, including curries, tandoori dishes, naan bread, and appetizers such as pakoras, alongside a selection of Indo-Canadian options. The kitchen focuses on authenticity, with distinct sauces prepared for different dishes rather than a one-sizefits-all approach.

“My chef has more than 28 years of experience in cooking,” she said. “So yes, he has a very traditional touch in his cooking.”

For Ghai, the restaurant is not just about recipes, but about connection.

“I love people’s stories,” she said. “I want to create my own story, so I love hearing others’ stories. I love to listen.

I’m a good listener.”

That emphasis on relationships is how she hopes to become a part of the community.

“When we give back to the community, we become a part of it,” she said.

Ghai said she has already begun reaching out to local residents and businesses, introducing herself and sharing her menu, and said she has found people welcoming.

Still new to the city, she said customer feedback has been encouraging so far. She added that some former customers from Alberta

have even reached out, asking her to cook for them again — in some cases inviting her to return and cook a meal in their own kitchens.

Looking ahead, Ghai hopes to grow beyond a single location, with ideas that include expanding into cafes, tea shops, and potentially franchising.

“I just want to give my first six months to this family restaurant,” she said. “After that, I have a couple of ideas to grow the business.”

At its core, her goal remains simple: to create a welcoming space where food and conversation come together.

“My message is to give us a chance to serve you and enjoy our meals,” she said. “Give us suggestions, and give me a chance to get to know everyone.”

Desi Bites offers dine-in, takeout, and delivery services, with bookings available for birthday parties or other special occasions. The restaurant is located inside Moose Jaw Inn at 45 North Service Road and can be reached at 403519-3292, on Facebook at “Desi Bites,” or by email at DesiBites348@gmail.com.

Anu Ghai, owner of Desi Bites, stands inside her restaurant at 45 North Service Road in Moose Jaw. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Forsythia –an early blast of colour for the garden

After every winter, we are happy to see colour in the garden. From the landscape perspective, we would like to see our gardens filled with colour throughout the season and beyond. So how can we get early spring colour with some height? The answer of course is spring flowering shrubs.

One of the best shrubs to plant for spring colour is the forsythia (Forsythia ovata). Spring is made so much better by this shrub that provides happy yellow blooms very early in spring – in fact before the shrub leafs out. On the prairies, if you see a shrub literally covered with bell-like bright yellow flowers it is sure to be the forsythia.

It is an easy shrub to grow as the shrub itself is very hardy. However, the

early blooming flowers are not as hardy as the rest of the plant. The blossoms are only hardy to –38°C. It seems that most winters that temperature would be much colder than what is experienced but remember that not only the ambient temperature outside is important but that temperature along with the wind chill factor. Most years these lovely shrubs will be covered in blooms but sometimes you only see a flush of blooms along the bottom. This is because these blooms would have been more protected from cold winter temperatures than those flower buds higher up on the shrub due to the insulative properties of the snow cover.

So what exactly is it that kills a plant in winter? It is most often the fact that ice forms inside the cells of the plant. The cellular result is similar to putting a beverage in the freezer and forgetting to take it out before it freezes solid. It is usually a bit of a mess as the beverage container is unable to withstand the expanding force of ice forming within. The same thing happens within a plant cell. The hardiest plants will actually dehydrate their cells to the point where ice formation inside of them is simply impossible. For other plants that are less hardy like the forsythia they have adopted a different strategy of winter survival called supercooling. This involves cooling the water to below the freezing

point without the formation of ice. This seems rather scientific but really it is quite simple. Water in the liquid form is made up of closely packed water molecules arranged in a haphazard manner. They are touching but are not in any particular order. When the water becomes frozen those randomly arranged molecules become more aligned and actually locked together in a more precise pattern. The ice crystal is more like a brick wall rather than a haphazard collection of individual bricks you would find in water in the liquid state. When ice is formed, there is a tiny impurity in the water that begins the process of two molecules locking

together or the crystallization process. This impurity is termed the “ice nucleator”. What quickly follows is the continuing growth of the crystal which is what actually does the cell damage within the plant.

Plants that have the ability to supercool maintain the water in the cells in an ultra-pure state where no nucleators are present. When there are no tiny impurities present, the crystallization process does not begin and therefore the water can remain in the liquid from at temperatures lower than freezing. Absolutely pure water can remain liquid to a temperature of –38.1°C. Therefore, if during the winter the temperature within a forsythia bud does not drop below that supercooled temperature, the plants will flower in spring. Plants are so amazing!!

If you would like to grow your own forsythia try the cultivar `Northern Gold’ as it is the hardiest species on the market. Happy almost spring!

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…

Panda Tire & Auto invites community to join Easter colouring contest

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

A local automotive business is bringing a creative touch to the Easter season, inviting young artists and families to take part in a community colouring contest with a sweet prize up for grabs.

Panda Tire & Auto has announced its Easter colouring contest, running from March 23 to April 2, with participants competing for a one-kilogram chocolate bunny.

The contest is open to community members of all ages, who can download and print a themed colouring page, complete their design, and return

it in person to the Main Street automotive shop. Submitted entries will be displayed onsite ahead of judging, giving visitors an opportunity to view the artwork. The winning entry will be selected from those submissions, with the winner announced Thursday, April 2 at noon.

The initiative offers a simple, family-friendly way to take part in seasonal festivities while connecting with a local business. By hosting the contest in-store, Panda Tire & Auto is also creating an opportunity for participants to showcase their

creativity within a shared community space.

The colouring page can be downloaded through Panda Tire & Auto’s website, allowing participants to print their copy at home before completing and submitting it. All entries must be received before the April 2 deadline to be eligible for judging.

Panda Tire & Auto is located at 888 Main Street North and can be reached at 306-691-0080. To download the colouring page, visit PandaAutoService. ca/news/colouring-contest-happy-easter.

Hanbidge For Moose Jaw Express
The Easter colouring contest page available through Panda Tire & Auto invites community members to take part for a chance to win a one-kilogram chocolate bunny. Photo by: Panda Tire & Auto

How to enter

Scan the QR Code for colouring book page

1. Colour this page, scan the QR code and print the page or go to PandaAutoService.ca/Easter.

2. Bring your coloured picture to Panda Tire & Auto.

3. Your entry will be displayed for judging

4. Winner announced at NOON on Thu April 2nd 2026

From The Kitchen

While baked ham might be the traditional menu item for an Easter dinner, there are alternatives, depending on taste and the number of individuals being served.

Ham steaks are perfect for one or two. And chicken or beef dishes may successfully be substituted for a large ham.

This week’s recipes offer three ideas for a nontraditional Easter meal.

HAM STEAKS

1 or 2 thickly-cut ham steaks

1/2 cup liquid honey

1/8 tsp. ground cloves

1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

In a medium-sized sauce pan, stir in honey and cloves. Add cranberries. On medium heat, and stirring occasionally, warm mixture until cranberries pop their skins.

Place ham steaks on an ungreased baking sheet with high sides. Spoon cranberry mixture over top and spread evenly.

Bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 minutes. Serve warm with potatoes and vegetables.

Note: A tin of jelled cranberry sauce may be substituted. Simply add honey and cloves to the prepared

Who says large ham must be served for Easter meal?

cranberry sauce, stir and warm, then top steaks.

CHICKEN CORDON BLEU

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

4 slices swiss cheese

4 slices deli ham, thinly sliced, no fat

2 tbsps. prepared mustard

1 egg, beaten

1 tbsp. water

1/4 cup butter, melted

1/2 cup flour

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. pepper

1/4 tsp. tarragon

1/2 tsp. paprika

1 cup dry, fine bread crumbs

Slice chicken breasts partially in half. Flatten between pieces of waxed paper and hammer with a meat hammer.

Spread mustard on each piece of chicken. Layer with a slice of cheese and ham.

Roll in jelly roll fashion and secure with a toothpick.

Combine flour and spices and set aside. Combine egg with water.

Roll each chicken piece in flour mixture and then in egg.

Add melted butter to the bread crumbs and coat the chicken rolls.

Place in a greased baking dish and cook in 350 degrees F oven until chicken is cooked and cheese is slightly melted.

Serve while hot.

PRIME RIB ROAST

6 lbs. prime rib roast minced garlic pepper to taste

salt-free Mrs. Dash seasoning

Rub roast with a combination of minced garlic, pepper and other seasonings, to taste.

Place roast in a roast pan, fat side up. Do not cover.

Roast meat at 325 degrees F for 30 minutes for each pound.

When roasted to desired doneness, remove from oven and let stand 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve with green bean casserole and Yorkshire pudding.

Joyce Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Nature Moose Jaw to spotlight owls at Wakamow’s ‘Celebrate Spring’ event

A new spring gathering in Wakamow Valley will give residents a chance to reconnect with nature later this month, with one local organization planning to bring a closer look at some of the valley’s most elusive wildlife.

Nature Moose Jaw will be among the community groups taking part in the “Celebrate Spring” event on March 28 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Kiwanis River Park, contributing to a new community gathering following the cancellation of this year’s Winterfest.

The long-running winter event was called off earlier this season due to unseasonably warm weather and a lack of snow. In its place, the Wakamow Valley Authority has organized a new spring-focused gathering, offering families an opportunity to still spend time in the valley.

For Nature Moose Jaw, the event will provide a chance to engage directly with the public while sharing seasonal insights into local wildlife.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

ming originally planned for Winterfest but adapted to reflect the transition into spring. The concept was developed by Nature Moose Jaw president Rich Pickering, who had initially planned the owlfocused exhibit for the winter event.

The exhibit is expected to include hand-crafted owl models and painted rocks featuring different species found in the valley, which children will be able to take home while supplies last.

“Great horned owls are the first to mate and breed, with activity already underway in January and February,” Epp said. “By early March, they’re on their nests, so we’ll be focusing on owl breeding habits.”

For Nature Moose Jaw, participation in events like this is part of a broader effort to increase its presence in the community, with additional programming expected later this season.

“It’s about being involved with the community,” said Kimberly Epp, a board member with the organization. “We’re trying to get out more and stay involved (with the community).”

Epp said the group’s display will centre on owls, building on program-

“We’ll have as many biofacts as we can,” Epp said, noting that items such as owl pellets and feathers will help explain how the birds live and hunt. “Owl feathers have soft, fringed edges that allow them to fly silently, while hawks and eagles have more streamlined feathers and rely on speed.”

The shift from a winter to a spring event has also influenced the educational focus, with Nature Moose Jaw planning to highlight owl breeding habits at this time of year.

“I’m hoping to see more walks and programs (this spring, summer, and fall),” Epp said on behalf of Nature Moose Jaw, adding that more details will be shared as plans are finalized.

To contact Nature Moose Jaw about upcoming events or membership, Rich Pickering can be reached at R.Pickering@shaw.ca.

For more information about Celebrate Spring, visit Wakamow.ca, find “Wakamow Valley Authority” on Facebook, or call 306-692-2717.

Rich Pickering, right, president of Nature Moose Jaw, is shown with one of the organization’s owl displays, part of an interactive exhibit that will be featured during the “Celebrate Spring” event on March 28 at Kiwanis River Park. Photo by: Nature Moose Jaw/Supplied

Khodi Dill returns to Moose Jaw with message of identity, empathy at ‘March Out Racism’

In a packed auditorium at A.E. Peacock Collegiate, the room fell quiet as Saskatoon-based educator, author, and spoken word artist Khodi Dill stepped forward to tell his story.

It was a story rooted in memories of growing up in Moose Jaw, navigating identity as a biracial youth, and of learning, over time, how to reclaim a voice shaped by experience and expectation.

More than 100 students gathered on March 20 for the Prairie Skies Integration Network’s (PSIN) “March Out Racism” event, a youth-focused initiative designed to spark conversation around racism, identity, and belonging ahead of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Dill returned to the city with a message that was as personal as it was urgent.

“For me, it’ll be a good experience because I grew up in Moose Jaw,” he had said prior to the event — a sentiment that carried into a presentation grounded in reflection, vulnerability, and, at times, raw honesty.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

thy and action, urging students not to remain silent in the face of injustice.

“If you see something and say nothing, you’re helping it happen,” Dill said.

The presentation also made space for reflection as Dill spoke about confronting internalized beliefs and reclaiming identity. Quoting abolitionist Frederick Douglass, he underscored a message that resonated throughout the room: “The soul that is within me no man can degrade.”

During a question-and-answer period, students asked about Dill’s path into poetry, his experiences growing up, and how they could help foster more inclusive school environments.

From the outset, Dill framed the conversation within a broader context, acknowledging Treaty 4 territory and underscoring the shared responsibility to uphold the agreements that continue to shape life in Canada, while inviting students to look inward and reflect on their own perspectives.

“I want you to think about your own social positioning today … and imagine yourself on a map. Where do you stand in relation to other social groups and to power, privilege, and disadvantage?”

Dill said.

What followed was not a traditional keynote, but a layered performance that was part lecture, part poetry, and part lived testimony.

Through the spoken word, Dill revisited moments of racism from his childhood, describing not only the overt incidents, but the quieter, cumulative

impact of assumptions, stereotypes, and everyday interactions.

“Put all (of those small incidents) together and see where you end up with your self-image, your self-perception, and your respect for yourself and your soul,” he said.

His message extended beyond individual experience, drawing connections to systemic racism, intersectionality, and the ways power operates within institutions and society at large.

At several points, he challenged students to reconsider how they understand racism.

“It’s not really about the intent of a person’s words or actions at all. It’s about the impact,” he said. “When we hurt somebody, we (need to) take accountability.”

That call for accountability was paired with a broader appeal for empa-

“What we have to do as young people is advocate to our teachers and our administrators to make racism a conversation that happens in our school in an ongoing way,” Dill said. “Not just around March 21 … but the whole year long.”

The morning concluded with a musical performance by Savannah McBean, whose blend of soul and R&B offered a reflective close to an event that balanced difficult conversations with a sense of possibility.

Before leaving the stage, Dill invited the audience into a final moment of collective voice — a spoken affirmation repeated in unison.

“I am human. I am whole. I am powerful in mind and soul,” he said, as students echoed the words back. “I will go forth into the world and inspire.”

For more information on PSIN, visit PSINetwork.ca or call 306-692-6892. To learn more about Khodi Dill, visit TheGreyGriot.com.

Khodi Dill leads students in a spoken affirmation during the “March Out Racism” event at A.E. Peacock Collegiate on March 20, encouraging reflection on identity, empathy, and action. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Savannah McBean closes the morning gathering with a soul and R&B-inspired set. Photo by: Aaron Walker

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division is looking to provide more faith-based professional development opportunities for new teachers to help grow their Catholic identity and encourage more participation in the community.

The goals of the division’s faith development program — still in draft form — include giving staff the flexibility in their growth plans, helping build partnerships with parishes, supporting new staff and providing opportunities for all staff, according to a report presented during the March meeting.

“Our program consists of classes and/or acts of service. The program is FREE. You do not need to read any materials/resources or write any papers,” said the report. “You simply must attend and participate. We require that you complete 12 credits of faith permeation over your first (three) years.”

Ward Strueby, director of education, said new teachers are required to complete “a lot” of professional development — 30 hours — in their first two years, which he has heard is difficult because of how busy they are.

So, after reviewing other school divisions’ programs, he extended the time new teachers have to acquire the

12 credits to three years; one credit is considered 2.5 hours, which means 12 credits equals 30 hours.

The draft program indicates that all teachers must attend the faith PD day in August, which includes learning Bible basics, learning how to teach mass, taking a church tour, leading daily classroom prayer, understanding how to set up their prayer tables and related symbols, understanding the sacraments and taking Catholic Education 101.

These activities would give new teachers two credits, while first-year elementary teachers must complete the “Growing in Faith, Growing in Christ” module and first-year high school educators must complete the “Catholic Studies” module for another credit.

Strueby said these mandatory firstyear programs will give teachers a “solid understanding” of what the courses are about and how to lead them.

Meanwhile, new teachers who have received the sacraments — such as baptism and communion — will receive four credits, he said. This allows faithbased educators not to have to take as many courses as non-Catholic teachers.

“Then … we’re potentially looking at offering some carrots to be in-

volved in your local parishes, which is something I’m excited about,” Strueby continued. “Because we want people to be at church. We want kids to see their teachers at church.”

Those “carrots” include one credit for participating in liturgical ministries, two credits for supporting children’s liturgy, and one credit for supporting students in receiving sacraments like confirmation and reconciliation, he said.

Educators would also receive one credit for every 2.5 hours of faith professional development, six credits for completing a pre-approved university course, six credits for pursuing personal initiation or sponsoring someone to become a Catholic and one credit for the chaplain visiting a classroom five times.

Other approved activities include faith experiences like visiting a cathedral, professional reading and learning, pursuing a Catholic action plan, or participating in a parish social justice committee or parish council, the draft document showed.

Strueby said it would be great to have a province-wide PD day where the eight Catholic school divisions invited someone to speak about a topic. He thought Holy Trinity’s chaplain, Lisa

Busta, “does a good job,” and he wanted to share her talents with others.

Meanwhile, the education director said more experienced teachers should give a reflection to their school administrators about what they’re doing in their parishes and with their personal faith journeys. In comparison, Regina teachers must meet with their priest every five years.

Strueby also thought the division could give educators a certificate showing they had gone “above and beyond” to acquire the necessary credits. This could be a recruiting tool to encourage those educators to be faith leaders in their schools and to consider becoming vice-principals and principals.

Mark Selinger, superintendent of learning and technology, said the division plans to roll out a “PD passport” next fall to record all the curriculumrelated learning opportunities educators complete, which would include a religion module.

Teachers would submit an electronic form saying they had completed a program, while the division would keep track of those completions for them, he added.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. APRIL 20, 2026.

A 10-month contract between Moose Jaw’s Catholic school division and an arts group has concluded, freeing up money that the educational organization could use for transportation purposes.

Holy Trinity Catholic School Division signed an agreement with the Moose Jaw Cultural Centre — now known as the Centre for Arts and Culture (CAC) — in September 2024, with the former providing $150,000 to the latter to support students’ arts education, a recent board report said.

The Centre for Arts and Culture held the money in trust in exchange for the school division using the Mae Wilson Theatre for activities.

The agreement ended on June 30, 2025, and since then, both organizations have been meeting and discussing whether to renew the contract, the report continued. In the meantime, the CAC returned the money to the school division.

Catholic division to consider buying used paratransit buses to support students

Curt Van Parys, the division’s chief financial officer, told trustees during their March board meeting that part of him wants to “just bank” the money, especially since Holy Trinity may face future financial challenges.

However, money is required to address the emerging need of transporting wheelchair-bound students, he continued. The division relies on Prairie South School Division to transport two pupils to St. Michael School, while one family drives their child to school.

Van Parys noted that Holy Trinity has paid Prairie South an average of $65,000 annually during the past three years for this service, which makes that an expensive service.

“Our transportation manager has been sourcing the market with … acquiring a vehicle that can meet our needs with … these students,” he said, noting the division expects to soon transport

five students in wheelchairs.

Van Parys said he has spoken with the City of Moose Jaw’s transportation department and has learned that the municipality plans to purchase new paratransit buses. City officials have said the school division will have “first crack at” purchasing those used buses in May.

“So we’re definitely going to do our due diligence on this matter … ,” he remarked, noting that Holy Trinity could provide this enhanced paratransit service to its students this September.

While purchasing one or both paratransit buses will improve transportation services and help Holy Trinity better implement the province’s Accessibility Act, Van Parys said the division would still have to hire drivers and provide more support to maintain, licence and insure the vehicle and supervise the drivers.

If the parties cannot agree on the cost of the vehicles, the city will sell the

buses through its regular tender process, he added.

Van Parys addressed the fact that Holy Trinity uses the Mae Wilson Theatre for some of its educational activities because none of its schools have a large enough auditorium. He noted that since the division holds 18 to 20 events annually in the theatre, it could provide $10,000 per year so students can continue to access that venue.

Van Parys admitted that he was concerned about acquiring used paratransit buses, but said Holy Trinity would not drive as many kilometres annually as the city does. He planned to include those factors in his analysis to determine whether to buy new or used vehicles.

Joann Blazieko, board chairwoman, said the division should consider buying new paratransit buses since it might receive a better product and be more costeffective.

Catholic teachers support longer school day to gain more PD time

With more Catholic teachers wanting time for professional development, the separate school division has created alternate calendars for 2026-27 that add three minutes more per day to accommodate the educators’ request.

Trustees with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division approved the regular and alternate calendars for elementary schools and high schools in Moose Jaw during their March meeting, before directing administration to submit the schedules to the Ministry of Education.

Dave DePape, superintendent of human resources and operations, said results from a recent survey showed employees had “a real desire” for more professional development (PD) opportunities annually.

However, DePape pointed out that Holy Trinity creates its calendars using schedules from Prairie South School Division, since the two organizations must align for transportation purposes. So, Holy Trinity’s calendars cannot deviate too much from Prairie South’s schedules.

Jason G. Antonio - For the Moose Jaw Express

Yet, after receiving PSSD’s calendars in February, the superintendent “tried (his) darndest” to add more professional development opportunities for staff. His initial drafts featured no extra learning days since there was no room, while he wanted to ensure he didn’t remove any existing days.

Historically, Catholic schools in Moose Jaw have had 310 minutes per day of learning, while staff usually have 1.5 days of professional development throughout the year, said DePape. However, one full day is dedicated to start-up in August.

DePape then created two sets of calendars, with one set featuring the 310-minute day and a second set having 313 minutes per day and two extra PD days. He noted that schools will have the flexibility to add the extra three minutes per day to ensure they work for their communities.

“So that (extra two PD days) is appropriate (and) that is acceptable,” he remarked, noting Holy Trinity will potentially have four calendars in play for

2026-27.

DePape later presented the proposed changes to Holy Trinity’s teachers’ union and asked it to have staff provide input on whether PD was still a priority. Educators discussed the changes and favoured the 313-minute day, voting 74 per cent to accept that calendar.

“So, kudos to our teachers. … they put their money where their mouth was,” he added.

With three extra minutes added to the school day, questions have been raised about how that might affect the overall number of hours students and teachers are in school annually, said DePape.

The ministry dictates that elementary students must be in school a minimum of 950 hours per year, so adding three minutes daily means pupils will be in school 951 hours annually, he continued. Meanwhile, teachers work 1,002 hours annually based on the regular schedule, so this change will bump those hours to 1,011.

Continuing, DePape said high

school teachers will have “a little more student contact time” with the changes since all their prep time must be within their teaching schedule; they don’t receive days off for prep as their elementary colleagues do.

High school students will be in school 961 hours annually — 10 hours more than the minimum — based on the changes, while teachers will work 1,011 hours, he added. In comparison, this year, teachers in Moose Jaw will work 1,007 hours and educators in Shaunavon will work 1,008 hours.

Ward Strueby, director of education, said the only other way Holy Trinity could offer PD for teachers would be during the school day. However, the division would have to bring in substitutes, who may not necessarily be available, which would be costly and disruptive.

Overall, though, Strueby said this change “works quite well.”

DePape agreed, saying the division has “a very nice calendar” for elementary schools and the high school.

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. APRIL 20, 2026.

With the $7.05-million renovation project at École St. Margaret School nearing completion, Moose Jaw’s Catholic school division is turning its attention to addressing the deficiencies at St. Michael School.

Administration with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division announced during the March board meeting that the division recently submitted a minor capital program application — the program supports initiatives under $10 million — to the Ministry of Education for proposed upgrades at St. Michael School.

The submission included a

School division hopes provincial program will fund upgrades at St. Michael School

recent report from P3Architecture Partnership, a May 2023 asbestos report from Bersch Consulting and a 2013 report from Stantec Consulting; P3Architecture’s document incorporated elements from Stantec’s report.

The school division estimates it will cost $9.8 million to renovate the elementary school, while the organization will require an additional $1.4 million to install two relocatable classrooms.

The province’s funding rates for relocatable classrooms in the 2025-26 program show that:

RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF MOOSE JAW NO. 161 2026 ASSESSMENT ROLL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Moose Jaw No. 161 for the year 2026 has been prepared and is open to inspection from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Friday, inclusive, except holidays beginning Wednesday, March 25, 2026 until Monday, April 27, 2026.

A bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal against the assessment is required to le a notice of appeal by April 27, 2026 with: Nicolle Hoskins Secretary to the Board of Revision, Box 149 Meota, SK S0M 1X0

A $25.00 appeal fee is required, payable to: The R.M. of Moose Jaw No. 161, #3-1410 Caribou St. W., Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7S9. The fee will be returned if the appeal is successful.

Dated this 25th day of March 2026

Mike Wirges Assessor

• New portables in Regina and Saskatoon cost up to $675,000

• New portables in rural areas cost up to $725,000

• Moving relocatables in those cities costs up to $350,000

• Moving relocatables in rural areas costs up to $500,000

• Costs for new joint-use school projects are determined by the contract

• Furniture and equipment for joint-use school projects are $30,000 Trustees toured St. Margaret and St. Agnes schools before the meeting and saw “the spread in terms of the state of the union” about the venues’ conditions, said Curt Van Parys, the division’s chief finan-

cial officer (CFO), during the meeting.

Continuing, he said the project at St. Margaret is nearing completion — it should conclude in a few months — and should serve that student population and community for a long time.

Van Parys pointed out that Holy Trinity and St. Margaret School were “guinea pigs” when the ministry rolled out the minor capital program in 202223, since Moose Jaw was one of only two places in the province — the other was in Kyle — to receive such program funding.

Meanwhile, the CFO said Holy Trinity’s submission for St. Michael has now been “enter(ed) into the mix” with proposals from the 26 other school divisions, with the Min-

PUBLIC NOTICE

DISCRETIONARY USE APPLICATION

The City of Moose Jaw, pursuant to Zoning Bylaw No. 5346 is considering an application to allow for a proposed “Vehicle Rentals, Sales and Service Centre” on Lot 47, Block 109, Plan 99MJ06781, Ext 0, at the address civically known as 113 High Street East, Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, which is a discretionary use within the C2 – High Density Commercial District. Additional information regarding the application may be found on the “City News” page at www.moosejaw.ca. The report, application, and any representations, will be considered by City Council on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 228 Main Street North. Written submissions must be received by Planning & Development, 3rd Floor, 228 Main Street North, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 3J8, by 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in person or by email at planning@moosejaw.ca.

Dated at the City of Moose Jaw, in the Province of Saskatchewan, this 17th day of March, 2026.

, City Clerk

istry of Education expected to announce the program recipients within a year.

The CFO added that he was hopeful that the three submitted reports would ensure Holy Trinity’s request was successful. If the division receives funding, it could update the St. Michael School building and extend its lifespan for decades.

Trustee Lee Moyse noted that the project’s proposed price tag is $9.8 million, but that figure could rise — to $10.3 million or even $17 million — by the time the ministry announces its 2027 budget. He then wondered whether the ministry would dismiss Holy Trinity’s project from the minor capital program because of that expense hike.

“Under the existing rules, it would,” Van Parys replied. However, Holy Trinity could argue that since it was one of the initial projects under this program and experienced cost overruns — it started at $4 million — and challenges, the ministry should be flexible and allow it, he continued. There should also be some “wiggle room” with the $10 million cap.

Van Parys added that the ministry used data from 2019 when it approved the renovation project at the French immersion school, which is why the initiative nearly doubled in cost.

True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice. -- Ben Jonson --

HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC SCHOOL DIVISION

THE NEXT HOLY TRINITY BOARD MEETING IS MON. APRIL 20, 2026.

One public school in Moose Jaw has moved to an alternate calendar to help improve student attendance, but a Catholic school is now considering whether to adopt a similar schedule.

Lindale School was the first school — public or Catholic — in the city to recently adopt the alternate calendar, which begins this September and gives students 14 more Fridays off throughout the year. However, they will spend 26 minutes more in school on the other four days — an increase of roughly two minutes per instructional period.

Now, St. Michael School’s school community council (SCC) has said it is pursuing a similar schedule for its students and teachers.

During their March board meeting, trustees with Holy Trinity Catholic School Division received a letter from St. Mike’s SCC about pursuing an alternate calendar for the 202627 year. The letter noted that the SCC began discussions in January, while members have already spoken with division administration.

Continuing, the SCC said the conversations with the division “provided greater clarity regarding the details, implications, and processes involved in considering this potential change.”

The SCC also provided the board with a letter it sent to parents, which said the council was considering this new schedule since other schools across the province had adopted such calendars to reduce high absenteeism — especially on Fridays.

“These calendars have also been shown to reduce teacher and student burnout while pro-

St. Michael School eyes calendar change to boost student attendance

viding more family time,” the SCC said.

Continuing, the SCC told parents that, based on research, there would not be any significant negative effect on students due to the longer school day. However, families would have to arrange child care on the 14 extra Fridays students have off, while the calendar would have a minimal effect on extracurricular activities since most sports don’t occur that day.

The SCC acknowledged that this alternate schedule would affect teacher recruitment and retention, since most staff have already said this calendar better supports their work-life balance — and would be positive for hiring and keeping educators.

Meanwhile, the letter said the SCC planned to hold an in-

formation night to review relevant data, outline the planning process and address questions about a potential transition to the alternate calendar that all rural schools in Prairie South use.

Afterward, the SCC planned to hold an online vote to see if the school community was interested in pursuing the alternate calendar. The letter indicated that for the proposed change to proceed, at least 80 per cent of eligible voters must cast a ballot, while 80 per cent of those votes must be in favour.

“The St. Michael’s school community council remains committed to working collaboratively with families to determine the approach that best supports our students,” the letter said, adding that parents

could also ask questions during student-led conferences on March 25 and 26.

Ward Strueby, director of education, told trustees during the board meeting that the SCC felt the 80-per-cent goal was “a high target to hit.” However, he told them that that was a starting point, while they should focus on discussing this with the community and collecting data.

“I would say the group that’s there is gung-ho to get going … ,” he said. “I know

that the SCC members that are there would really like to see this come to fruition.”

Strueby added that St. Mike’s SCC was working closely with Lindale’s SCC, while the group would share the results of the vote with the board before making any decisions.

Trustee Lee Moyse said setting the threshold at 80 per cent was important since it ensured that the community’s voice was heard.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Marquis No. 191 intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 3/93 known as the Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT

The proposed bylaw will allow up to two (2) subdivisions in the Agricultural District.

AFFECTED LAND

The a ected land will be all land within the Agricultural District of the RM.

REASON

The reason for the amendment is to allow up to two (2) subdivisions in the Agricultural District.

PUBLIC INSPECTION

Any person may inspect the bylaws at the RM of Marquis No. 191 municipal o ce located at 13 Main Street in the Village of Marquis during regular o ce hours. Copies are available at cost.

PUBLIC HEARING

Council will hold a public hearing on April 14, 2026 at 10:00 am at the Municipal O ce, 13 Main Street, in the Village of Marquis to hear any person or group that wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal o ce before the hearing. Issued at the RM of Marquis this 18 th day of March, 2026

Madison Gardner

Administrator

Why must we pay for parking anyway?

The downtown parking situation has reached city council once again.

Vandals and thieves have destroyed hundreds of parking meters downtown just to grab and pocket the coins in them. While this is a sad commentary on life today, it is fact needing to be handled.

The consequences have been costly for the city in repair costs and loss of revenues.

Over half of the city’s meters— 522 of 998— are out of commission. The city gave up on repairing the meter heads.

Looking to fix the problem city council has signed a five year agreement with a company that handles parking by use of smart phones.

Using smart phones, drivers can pay for parking, or at the one downtown station.

The choice saves the city lots of money; no more meter replacements, no more weekly collections, no more repairs.

The new system, arriving this spring certainly isn’t

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL

Moose Jaw city council has nominated Jessica McNaughton as the city’s representative to the Regina Airport Authority Board of Directors for a new three-year term.

During its March 10 regular meeting, council voted unanimously to nominate McNaughton to serve from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2029, or until a successor is appointed. The nomination now goes to the Regina Airport Authority for final ratification once the nominee’s qualifications are confirmed under the board’s bylaws.

The recommendation came forward from the city clerk’s office. Presenting the report, assistant city clerk Dawn Lugrin said Moose Jaw has had representation on the airport authority since 1997.

“The report before you is to consider the nomination to the Regina Airport Authority. Since 1997, the City of Moose Jaw has had the opportunity to nominate a representative to the Regina Airport Authority board to bring a regional perspective to that group,” Lugrin said.

According to the city’s report, Regina invited Moose Jaw to appoint a representative in September 1997. The intent was to provide broader regional input to the airport authority and support liaison with Canadian Forces Base Moose Jaw.

OPINION

EDITORIAL: TRADING THOUGHTS

inclusive of all drivers. It leaves out the six per cent who don’t have smart phones as well as an estimated 20 per cent to 25 per cent of older drivers who are uncomfortable with using phone applications.

If these folks are lucky a voucher system such as Regina has adopted will be used.

Nobody ever broached the concept of not forcing customers to pay for parking.

Considering that meters raise about $350,000 a year when in full operation, losing that revenue wouldn’t be such a big deal out of a $71.7 million budget. No parking revenue would reduce the operating budget revenues by 3.8 per cent.

The original reason for installation of parking meters was to ration parking so frequent turnover in spots would allow many more people to park downtown.

The justification for collection of the nickel an hour back then was to place the revenues in a fund for development of off-street parking.

Development of off-street parking using meter

revenues rarely occurred.

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

One lot on River Street East behind the Park Hotel was developed and perhaps some of the fund was used to develop a parking lot beside Central Motors on High Street, now site of the Temple Gardens hockey arena.

Some small cities in the West have abandoned payment for parking altogether.

In place of the slot machine-like bandit meters they have a person marking tires every two hours. If the vehicle hasn’t moved in two hours a ticket is issued.

Regina used to do that. The practice was likely stopped when wages became so high.

It’s too bad when your customer has to pay just to park within a reasonable distance to do shopping or for appointments in the city.

But expecting relief from payment to park is a dream.

In these days of inflation and taxes on almost everything one does, a break would be such good news. Ron Walter can be reached at ronjoy@sasktel.net

Council nominates Jessica McNaughton to Regina Airport Authority board

The Regina Airport Authority is the not-for-profit corporation responsible for the governance and oversight of Regina International Airport. Its independent

board of directors consists of between 11 and 13 members drawn from several nominating bodies, including the City of Regina, the federal and provincial governments, the RM of Sherwood, the Regina Airport Authority itself, and the City of Moose Jaw.

Under the authority’s bylaw, Moose Jaw is entitled to nominate one member, with the mayor serving as the city’s authorized representative in the process.

The airport authority’s nominator guidelines state that members generally serve three-year terms and may be reappointed, provided no individual serves more than nine years in total. The same guidelines note that appointments are generally finalized at the authority’s annual meeting, typically held in late April or early May.

The city report says the board provides strategic direction and oversight for the airport authority, while day-to-day operations are handled by the president and chief executive officer.

The nomination was approved without debate. In its strategic plan alignment, the city says Moose Jaw’s representation on the Regina Airport Authority board supports the municipality’s economic growth and partnership goals by contributing to regional transportation infrastructure and economic development.

Jessica McNaughton has been nominated by Moose Jaw city council to serve a three-year term as the city’s representative on the Regina Airport Authority Board of Directors. Photo by: Jason G. Antonio
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

CITY HALL COUNCIL NOTES

THE NEXT REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING IS TUES. MAR 24, 2026

Moose Jaw city council has confirmed two councillor appointments to the city’s advisory committees under its governance framework.

During its March 10 regular meeting, council approved the appointment of Coun. Jamey Logan to the Operations Advisory Committee and Coun. Heather Eby to the Community Services Advisory Committee. Both terms will run from March 10 to Dec. 31, or until successors are appointed.

The appointments were brought forward by the city clerk’s office following expressions of interest from members of council.

City council appoints Logan, Eby to advisory committees

Assistant city clerk Dawn Lugrin said the appointments are part of the city’s updated advisory committee structure, with one councillor assigned to each committee, serving in a liaison role that preserves committee independence while maintaining a connection to council.

“Councillors appointed to these committees serve in a non-voting, nonquorum role. Their role is to participate in discussion, provide council perspective, and support communication between the committee and council,” she said.

The appointments follow the adoption of The Procedures and Committees Bylaw, 2025, which introduced an updated governance framework for the city’s advisory committees. Under that framework, councillors act in a role similar to ex officio members, contributing to discussions without participating in formal decision-making.

Council members were invited to indicate their interest in serving on the committees for the 2026 term. As the number of interested councillors did not exceed the available positions, the rec-

ommended appointments reflected those expressions of interest.

Coun. Patrick Boyle brought forward the motion to approve the appointments.

According to the city, advisory committees play a role in supporting municipal governance by providing input, aligning committee work with council priorities, and maintaining independent decision-making structures.

There was no public discussion prior to the vote, and the motion was carried unanimously.

Fauser) Woodrow, Sk. (306) 472-7659, (306) 472-7656 or (306) 472-5759

Location: 4 miles North of Woodrow on Archie Clampitt Rg. Road 3062, 1 1/2 miles West on Gravel Road (GPS: N49.45.19; W106.45.40)

www.switzerauction.ca

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In photos: ‘Dance for Hunger’ hits the stage at A.E. Peacock Collegiate

The stage at A.E. Peacock Collegiate came alive March 22 as dancers from Dance Images took part in the studio’s annual “Dance for Hunger” spring showcase, delivering an afternoon of performances ahead of the upcoming competition season.

The event featured a wide range of routines, including solo, duo, trio, and small group performances, alongside a large-scale presentation from the studio’s acro program. Dancers of all ages participated, with performers ranging from early elementary students to those in their final year of high school.

“So in total, we have 89 routines taking the stage,” said studio owner and

Shauna Bzdel.

The showcase followed a full weekend of stage rehearsals, giving dancers the opportunity to refine their routines in a performance setting before heading into competition.

“Our show started with our acro performances, so all of our acro dancers from the studio were involved, and that number alone had over 65 kids in it,” Bzdel said.

The acro program, which runs from September through March, remains a central part of the studio’s offerings,

Invitational Dance Carnival

set for March 27 to 29 at Peacock

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The 40th annual Invitational Dance Carnival, hosted by co-founders Barb Jackman and Denise Maisonneuve, will take place March 27 to 29 at A.E. Peacock Collegiate’s Centennial Auditorium.

The three-day event will run throughout the day from March 27 to 29, bringing together dance studios from across Saskatchewan for a weekend of performances across a variety of disciplines, with sessions scheduled daily.

“We’re pretty excited that this is our 40th season of offering the Carnival here in Moose Jaw,” said cofounder and co-director Barb Jackman

with select dancers continuing on to competitive teams.

“Then we have two of our acro teams that compete all season (take part today),” she added.

For many performers, the event marked an important milestone in their dance year, offering both stage experience and a chance to share their work with a live audience.

The showcase also drew a strong turnout from families and community members, filling the auditorium as dancers took to the stage throughout the afternoon.

While the performances were the primary focus, the event also served a broader purpose, with attendees encouraged to bring donations in support of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank.

“This is an annual event that we’ve been doing for several years,” Bzdel

earlier. “This time of year is one of the first opportunities for parents and the public to see the dancers’ efforts, the training they’ve been doing, and the choreography they’ve been learning. It’s such a magical time of the season.”

For more information, visit “MJ Invitational Dance Carnival” on Facebook, email InvitationalDanceCarnival1985@gmail.com, or call 306631-0584. A.E. Peacock Collegiate is located at 145 Ross Street East.

Look for further details on Page A20 of the Wednesday, March 18, 2026, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.

said, adding it has become a key fundraiser for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank. “It’s a really great fundraiser.”

The combination of performance and community support continues to define the event, which has grown into a yearly highlight for both dancers and audiences alike.

For more information about the local dance studio, visit “Dance Images” on Facebook or DanceImagesInc.com. The studio can be reached at 306-6310584 or by email at Info@DanceImagesInc.com.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express, Photos by: Aaron Walker

Dance Images’ ‘Dance for Hunger’ event brings in support for the food bank

A weekend of dance once again translated into meaningful support for families in the community, as Dance Images’ annual “Dance for Hunger” event returned with strong participation and a steady stream of donations for the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank.

Held March 22 at A.E. Peacock Collegiate, the showcase marked the culmination of a full weekend of stage rehearsals, featuring performers ranging from young beginners to senior-level dancers preparing for the upcoming competition season.

For studio owner and director Shauna Bzdel, the event has become a longstanding tradition rooted in both performance and purpose.

“This is an annual event that we’ve been doing for several years. I believe this is about our 18th year,” Bzdel said, adding that around 89 routines were scheduled for the day.

The event combined a public showcase with a food drive, encouraging guests to bring donations in support of the food bank — a need Bzdel noted remains particularly significant at this time of year.

“At this time of year, as we prepare for competition season, we run stage rehearsals all weekend for our groups, followed by a showcase featuring our acro program and all of our solo, duo, trio and small group dancers,” she said. “We host a matinee show and ask attendees to bring donations for the food bank, as this is often a difficult time of year for them.”

While final totals were not immediately available following the event,

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Bzdel said the response from the community was evident.

“So far, our volunteer families who are organizing it have collected a significant amount (of food items), with two large tables filled with baskets and donations,” she said.

In previous years, the event has consistently delivered a noteworthy contribution.

“Over the years, we’ve averaged about 1,300 pounds of food donated to the food bank, which really makes a big difference,” Bzdel said.

Beyond the donations themselves, the event also serves as an opportunity to instill community values in young performers.

“It teaches our kids how to give back to their community, no matter how young they are,” she said. “We have dancers this weekend ranging from

Bzdel added that the initiative helps reinforce an understanding of gratitude and shared responsibility.

“It shows them that you don’t have to make a big, grand gesture to make a difference in the community. Even at a young age, simply bringing food donations helps families that aren’t as fortu-

nate as ours,” she said.

The showcase featured a full slate of performances, including the studio’s acro program and competitive routines, giving dancers a final opportunity to prepare for the Moose Jaw Invitational Dance Carnival, set for March 27 to 29 at the same venue.

The weekend wrapped with a message of appreciation for the families, dancers, and community members who continue to support the initiative.

“I’d like to thank all of our families and dancers for their hard work and support throughout the year, and I’m happy to see so many community members in the audience,” she said.

For more information, visit “Dance Images” on Facebook or DanceImagesInc.com. The studio can also be reached at 306-631-0584 or by email at Info@ DanceImagesInc.com.

Those looking to support the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank can visit 270 Fairford Street West or contact the organization at 306-692-2911.

Food donations collected during Dance Images’ annual “Dance for Hunger” event are presented in support of the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank on March 22 at A.E. Peacock Collegiate. Photo by: Dance Images/Submitted

O’Leary sets franchise mark as Warriors’ all-time wins leader

Mark O’Leary now stands alone behind the Moose Jaw Warriors bench.

The veteran coach recently recorded his 190th career victory with the Western Hockey League club, establishing a new franchise record for most wins by a head coach — a milestone the organization marked during its March 15 game by naming him “Warrior of the Game.”

For O’Leary, the achievement reflected more than a personal milestone, pointing instead to the people and culture that have defined his tenure in Moose Jaw.

“Yeah, I guess when you get the opportunity to be in one place long enough, and around some really good people and really good players, you end up winning some games,” O’Leary said. “So to have the most wins in Warriors history as a head coach, I think it’s something

special, but it’s not lost on me — the privilege it’s been to be here this long and to be around such good people.”

The recognition came as a surprise addition to the night, with the club choosing to acknowledge the milestone publicly in front of fans.

“That was a nice touch by the organization,” he said.

“Again, it’s nice to have the recognition. But it’s important to remember that when you win a game, it’s no different than (the role of) any player.”

O’Leary was quick to shift credit to those around him, emphasizing that success at the junior level is built collectively — from players buying into systems to staff working behind the scenes.

“We don’t win games without the assistant coaches — their influence on the game, the preparation, special teams, and

everything that goes into each and every game,” he said. “It takes a whole team.”

That team-first approach has been a consistent thread throughout his time with the Warriors.

“I think the thing I’m most proud of is the (2024) championship season, but not just the fact that we won,” O’Leary said. “I love that we did it with a group that grew up together. So many of those players came in as young 15-year-olds, bought into the culture and environment we have here, and continued to improve year by year.”

Now in his 14th season with the organization, O’Leary said the same principles continue to guide the current roster, with a focus on steady, day-byday development.

“I think for this group, the most important thing is that we’re better today than we were

Kinsmen Sports Celebrity Dinner set for March 28

The Moose Jaw Kinsmen Club is reminding residents to secure tickets for the 33rd annual Sports Celebrity Dinner, set for March 28 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds.

This year’s event will feature a lineup of high-profile guests, including former NHL defenceman Chris Chelios, former Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar, and Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris, with veteran sportscaster Rod Black serving as MC.

The evening will include the popular “Hot Stove” discussion, along with recognition of local athletes and teams through the Athlete of

-

the Year, Team of the Year, and Sports Builder awards.

Proceeds from the fundraiser support the Kinsmen Club’s community initiatives, including youth sports, local programs, and other charitable projects.

Tickets are available by contacting Cory Olafson at 306-631-8893 or Scott Paquin at 306-314-9108. The Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds are located at 250 Thatcher Drive.

Look for further details on Page A26 of the Wednesday, March 11, 2026, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.

Mark O’Leary hoists the Ed Chynoweth Cup after leading the Moose Jaw Warriors to a WHL championship in 2024. The veteran head coach recently became the franchise’s all-time wins leader with his 190th victory on March 15. Photo by: Moose Jaw Warriors Hockey Club

yesterday, and the goal is to be better tomorrow than we were today,” he said. “We just want to continue to stack hard, boring days.”

Beyond wins and championships, O’Leary said he hopes players leave the program with lessons that extend beyond the ice.

“Yeah, I think the most important thing is that hockey, like life, is about the circumstances you’re given,” he said. “When you get knocked down, you get up fast and you punch back.”

He also credited the broader organization and community for supporting his tenure behind the bench.

“It’s a privilege to coach the Moose Jaw Warriors, and there’s not a day I take for granted,” he said. “I’m certainly appreciative of the last 14 years living here.”

While the milestone marks a significant chapter in franchise history, O’Leary said there will be little time spent reflecting as the team pushes forward through the remainder of the season.

“In the thick of it, we’re just trying to win the next game,” he said. “So (there were) no celebrations — we’re just enjoying the moment and working toward what we’re always working toward.”

Moose Jaw Warriors keep WHL playoff hopes alive with win over Broncos in Swift Current

Moose Jaw roars out to 3-0 lead, hold on for 4-1 victory to move with a point of Red Deer for final playoff spot

- MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors had their playoff hopes on the line on Friday night in Swift Current and they came through with flying colours.

Now it’s all down to the final game of the regular season on Saturday night at Temple Gardens Centre.

The Warriors took a 3-0 lead into the final period and goaltender Chase Wutzke finished with 27 saves in the crucial contest as the Warriors took a 4-1 victory over the Broncos.

Moose Jaw improves to 25-35-5-2 and thanks to Medicine Hat taking a 9-3 win over Red Deer, the Warriors have now moved within a single point of the Rebels for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

That means that if the Warriors defeat Swift Current at home and Tigers down Red Deer at home on Saturday, Moose Jaw will leapfrog Red Deer into the eighth and final playoff spot.

And, as an interesting aside, if Moose Jaw won, Red Deer won and Regina lost on Saturday, the Warriors and Pats will find themselves in a one-game playoff on

Moose Jaw Warriors see power play fizzle in season-ending loss to Swift Current Broncos

Broncos take 4-1 victory, giving Red Deer eighth and final playoff spot in Eastern Conference

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw Warriors have seen their 2025-26 Western Hockey League campaign come to an end.

Needing a victory over the Swift Current Broncos to have a chance to secure the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, the Warriors would fall behind 2-0 early and go on to drop a 4-1 decision at Temple Gardens Centre on Saturday evening.

As a result, the Warriors finished with a 25-36-5-2 record and in ninth place, a single point back of the Red Deer Rebels for the final playoff spot. Red Deer went on to drop a lopsided decision to Medicine Hat in their final game of the regular season, and with Regina also losing in Brandon on Saturday, Moose Jaw could have finished seventh with a win on Saturday.

As it is, their campaign came to a disappointing conclusion.

The Moose Jaw Warriors kept their playoff hopes alive with a win over the Swift Current Broncos on Friday night. Ed Fonger
Moose Jaw Warriors forward Carson Smith nearly scored on this second period chance but instead had the puck hit the post, go across the goalline and stay out. Nick Pettigrew

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Mahlon Wiley scores OT winner as Regina Pat Canadians defeat Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors in Game 1 of SMAAAHL Final

Regina rallies to tie game in third period, go on to 4-3 victory to draw first blood in best-of-five series

Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

The Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors needed a late-game rally and overtime winner to advance to the Sask Male AAA Hockey League championship final series earlier last week.

On Saturday night in Game 1 against the Regina Pat Canadians, the shoe was on the other foot.

The Pat Canadians scored twice in the third period to send things to overtime, where Mahlon Wiley would score the game winner to give Regina a 1-0 lead in the best-of-five series.

Moose Jaw got to exactly the start they were hoping for as the visitors in the contest, as Ryder Gilroy scored the only goal of the first period with 3:39 remaining to give the Warriors a 1-0 lead through one.

The Warriors would continue to stymie Regina’s lethal offence all the way through to the third period, where Marek McIvor would score 3:19 in to extend Moose Jaw’s lead to a pair.

Ardens Power Out City League Title

Throughout the regular season the Swift Current Ardens were the team to beat in the Moose Jaw city league senior girls division.

Last Tuesday evening they met the regular season second place team the Central Cyclones in the city league final.

Despite their best efforts by the Cyclones, the Ardens claimed the city league title with a 74 - 34 final score.

“It’s not the way we wanted it. Of course not but that’s OK they worked really hard to the end so I’m super proud of them,” Central Cyclones head coach Tanya MacLean said in a post game interview.

Regarding the Cyclones season she said the accomplished many of the goals they set.

Goals which included making it to the city league final.

The team’s next goal is to make it into the Hoopla provincial high school championship tournament at the end of the month.

“There has been lots of improvement but there are still things to work on,” the Cyclones coach said.

“The team needs to work on better execution and less turnovers. There is still two more weekends to get it done.”

MacLean described the team’s season as “so far, so good.”

In the end she said “I’m just really proud of my teammates that’s all.” https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2026/3/17/iemx4zhgbz7we1qupyuksqxwfphofu

The Pat Cs began their comeback not much later, with Maddox Schultz getting things started when he scored with 6:01 gone in the frame.

Malaki Martin then put home his eighth of the playoffs with 4:43 remaining, tying the game 2-2 and eventually sending things to the extra period.

There, Wiley would emerge as the hero almost before the ice had dried, scoring his third of the playoffs only 12 seconds in to emerge as the hero.

Adam Muntain had 20 saves in the win, Steven Wawryk turned aside 24 for Moose Jaw.

Game 2 of the series is Monday in Moose Jaw (7 p.m., Temple Gardens Centre) with Game 3 back in Regina on Wednesday (7:45 p.m., Co-operators Arena). Game 4, if necessary is back in Moose Jaw on Friday (7 p.m.), with the fifth and deciding contest in Regina on Saturday (12:30 p.m.).

The Regina Pat Canadians and Moose Jaw WINMAR Warriors opened their Sask Male AAA Hockey League championship final series on Saturday night. SMAAAHL

They were the favourites but they didn’t take it lightly as the Central Cyclones senior boys basketball team defeated the Melville Cobras 73 - 32 on Saturday afternoon.

The victory punched the Cyclones’ ticket to defend their provincial 4A championship at Hoopla in Moose Jaw this upcoming weekend.

Hoopla, the provincial high school championship tournament, runs March 26 - 28 with Moose Jaw hosting the event this year.

Central Cyclones head coach Cris Temple said the team accomplished their goals in the game.

“Today’s game we handled our business and we did what we came to accomplish. So now we’re on to Hoopla we’re on to the next game,” Temple said.

Despite their arguably stellar season the team still has things to work on before Hoopla less than a week off.

Central Senior Boys Off To Hoopla

“(We have to work on a) few things here and there. I don’t want to give away too much but we’ll definitely be working

our butts off at practice,” Temple said. He said he hopes the community

supports the Hoopla tournament.

“Come on out and support us. Come out and support basketball. Come out and support the community and you’ll see some great basketball and high school athletics.”

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2026/3/21/central-senior-boysoff-to-hoopla

Central Cyclones Senior Girls Hoopla Bound

Starting the 2025/2026 basketball season the Central Cyclones senior girls basketball team had two goals - to make it to the city league finals and also into the Hoopla tournament.

Last week the Cyclones were in the Moose Jaw city league final.

On Saturday afternoon the Cyclones defeated the Luther Lions 82 - 57 to earn their berth to Hoopla.

Hoopla, the provincial high school championship tournament, runs March 26 - 28 with Moose Jaw hosting the event this year.

Faced with a tough opponent - the Luther Lions - the Cyclones came out strong.

“It was an amazing game. The best they’ve played all year. Perfect timing, insane effort, great I’m so proud,” Central Cyclones head coach Tonya MacLean said about the game.

The Cyclones had just played a game where the momentum as well as the score had seesawed back and forth.

this season.

To get past the Lions and off to Hoopla the Cyclones were very strong in their shooting. The Cyclones deflated the Lions’ momentum with a series of three pointers in the early going.

The Cyclones just hope to play their best at Hoopla and are super excited to be participating.

“Just being here is amazing. And the team is amazing. It’s amazing it’s in Moose Jaw. We get to play in front of everyone here at home. We’re super excited,” she said.

Within only days to go until Hoopla the Cyclones are going to work at improving their game between now and then.

https://www.mjindependent.com/ sports/2026/3/21/central-senior-girlshoopla-bound

The goal of making it to the Hoopla tournament was a major goal of the team
Central Cyclones senior boys team - MJ Independent photo
The Central Cyclones senior girls basketball team with their regionals trophy - MJ Independent photo

Dairy Queen initiative brings new sports equipment to local schools

Recent donations from Dairy Queen are helping students across the community stay active this spring, as local franchise owners continue to give back to schools through a large-scale sports equipment initiative.

On March 10, Dairy Queen Moose Jaw, through owners Jim and Michelle Braun, donated 80 pieces of sports equipment — including basketballs, volleyballs, and soccer balls — to Catholic and public schools in the city, as well as Caronport Elementary School. The equipment was distributed across multiple schools to support physical education classes and recess activities.

Ann Angeles, a manager at the Main Street franchise location, said the initiative reflects both the owners’ background and a broader commitment to student wellness.

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

“Being former educators, (Jim and Michelle Braun) know the importance of an active lifestyle, especially for kids, and at the same time understand the financial constraints of school budgets,” Angeles said. “This is a company initiative, and schools in Regina have benefited from the donations as well.”

According to a letter distributed alongside the equipment, the donations included basketballs, volleyballs, footballs, soccer balls, four-square balls, and dodgeballs, giving schools additional resources to support daily physical activity.

Angeles said the goal is to encourage students to stay active while exploring different sports.

“We hope the (equipment) can help kids stay active and discover a sport that interests them at school,” she said.

THIS WEEKS FLYERS

While the donations were not tied to a specific request from any school, Angeles noted that teachers quickly identified the need for additional equipment.

“When we started giving out the equipment, many teachers pointed out the cost of replacing items like dodgeballs, which can be quite expensive, and we’re happy that most of what we donated is needed now due to wear and tear on existing school equipment,” she said. “We believe this equipment will be an extra help for phys-ed and recess, helping kids stay active.”

Local schools have responded with appreciation, sharing messages of thanks on social media and highlighting the immediate impact on students.

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At Cornerstone Christian School, staff expressed gratitude for the donation, noting it would help students “gear up and get in the game,” while St. Agnes School shared that the contribution brought “nothing but smiles” to students. Other schools, including St. Michael and Lindale, also pointed to the value of replenishing equipment that sees frequent use throughout the school year.

For Dairy Queen, the effort is part of a larger approach to community involvement.

“Dairy Queen Moose Jaw has been donating to the pediatric department at Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital. We also support other school and club sports, such as hockey, volleyball, curling, swimming, fastball, baseball, and

basketball, through sponsorships of Blizzard coupons and gift baskets,” Angeles noted.

Angeles said supporting local schools is a natural extension of the business’s connection to the community, where many customers are families with children in those same classrooms.

“This is about giving back to the community that supports our local business,” she said.

She also expressed appreciation for the community’s ongoing support while emphasizing a continued commitment to local initiatives.

“We would like to thank the community for its continued support of your local Dairy Queen. We hope to continue helping schools and students achieve their goals of staying active.”

Lee Behrns, principal of Cornerstone Christian School, left, stands with Ann Angeles of Dairy Queen Moose Jaw, right, during a sports equipment donation to the school on March 10. Photo by: Cornerstone Christian School Moose Jaw/ Facebook

Amber Holland, Doug Franko win CurlSask senior women’s and men’s provincial curling championship

Holland takes 7-1 win over Joan McCusker to repeat as women’s champion, Franko defeats Bruce Korte 7-6 for first title Randy Palmer - MooseJawToday.com

Moose Jaw product Amber Holland didn’t leave much to doubt when it came to repeating as the CurlSask senior women’s provincial champion.

Holland and her Saskatoon Sutherland rink of third Jill Shumay, second Sherri Singler and lead Trenna Derdall capped an undefeated weekend with a 7-1 victory over Yorkton’s Joan McCusker, third Patsy Kuspira, second Bev Fuches and lead Kristina Just in the gold medal game on Sunday afternoon in Unity.

It was a slightly more circuitous route to the men’s championship for Wadena’s Brent Franko, third Verne Anderson, second Murray Sunderland and lead Dwight Pomedli, but a successful one just the same, as they defeated defending champion Bruce Korte, third Darrell McKee, second Kory Kohuch and lead Rory Golanowski 7-6 to claim their green jackets.

It’s the second straight senior Saskatchewan title for Holland, who went on to win silver at the Canadian champi-

Ladies Bonspiel in Central Butte

Submitted

Teams dressed up and spent the day curling in the Central Butte Ladies Bonspiel held March 8, 2026. The music was pumping and there were lots of laughs; overall the day was filled with lots of “shots” and great curling. Thanks to everyone who made the day a success!!

In the B final the “Grannies” played the “Beer League Girlies”. The B side winners were Megan Nicholas, Becca Fitzsimmons, Shawna Wirz and

In the A final the “80s Girls” played the “Team Canada Skips” The A side winners were skip -Deandra Peterson, third Kelly

onships last spring.

Franko was down to his last life

in the C event on Friday morning, but proceeded to reel off six straight victories to win the men’s title. They opened play Sunday morning with a 9-6 win over Saskatoon Nutana’s Blaine Duncan in the Page Playoff semifinal, sending themselves to the title game.

Franko would finish things off with his single point in the eighth for the 7-6 victory.

It’s the first senior men’s win for Franko, Sunderland and Pomedli, and the fifth for Anderson after winning in 2003 with Wendell Charbonneau and in 2008, 2009 and 2012 with Eugene Hritzuk.

Holland and Franko will now represent Canada at the 2027 World Senior Curling Championships.

The season isn’t over for Bruce Korte just yet, as the reigning Canadian champions will compete at the 2026 World Senior Curling Championship in Geneva, Switzerland beginning April 25.

Arguin, second Laren Moses, lead Tracey May.
Carrie Allen.
The 2026 CurlSask senior women’s and men’s provincial champions: Saskatoon Sutherland’s Amber Holland (back left), third Jill Shumay, second Sherri Singler and lead Trenna Derdall. Wadena’s Doug Franko (front left), third Verne Anderson, second Murray Sunderland and lead Dwight Pomedli. CurlSask

Final push underway as Chey Craik fundraiser nears treatment goal

A community-driven fundraising effort for Chey Craik has entered its final stretch, with organizers reporting that the campaign is now within reach of fully covering the cost of a specialized medical treatment scheduled in Mexico.

An update shared March 21 by organizer Cher Dombowsky on GoFundMe indicates that $74,600 has been raised toward the campaign’s $90,000 goal, leaving approximately $5,000 remaining to cover the $80,000 treatment cost. The treatment, which the Craik family has previously described as one of the final options available in managing his multiple sclerosis (MS), had an initial payment deadline of March 24. Organizers now confirm that deadline has been extended.

“Payment for the treatment … was originally due March 24, but after hearing how far we have come in raising the funds, they have extended his payment date to March 31,” the GoFundMe update reads.

The extension provides a narrow window for supporters to close the remaining gap.

“(This) means we have 10 days to

raise $5,000 and Chey’s treatment is 100 per cent paid for,” Dombowsky added.

Craik, who has been at the centre of a series of community fundraising efforts in recent weeks, shared a brief mes-

Advance ticket sales encouraged for returning ‘Notoriously Moose Jaw’ production

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

With opening night fast approaching, Moose Jaw Community Players is reminding residents to secure tickets early for its upcoming production of Notoriously Moose Jaw, noting that the returning show previously sold out during its 2023 run.

The locally written play, created by Joan Stumborg and Debbie Burgher, features a series of short scenes based on key moments in the city’s history and will take the stage April 23 to 25 at the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture. This year’s production will also feature new material and a refreshed cast, offering returning audiences something

different from the original run.

“We’re really, really excited to be bringing it back,” communications representative Ivy Sheward told the Moose Jaw Express earlier. “How fun (is it) to be telling the story of the place where we live?”

Tickets are available through the Moose Jaw Centre for Arts and Culture website at MooseJawCulture.ca.

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.

Battle Creek Adventure Park. That evening saw a steady turnout of residents offering both financial support and personal encouragement to Craik and his family.

While the immediate focus remains on securing the remaining funds required for treatment, organizers note that support will continue to play a role beyond that milestone.

“Now we don’t want to stop there, because every dollar raised after treatment is paid for will go directly to support Chey … during his recovery period,” the update stated.

The broader campaign has consistently emphasized the personal side of Craik’s journey, with family members previously describing both the progression of his condition and the emotional impact of the community’s response.

sage of appreciation as the campaign approaches its goal.

“We feel incredibly blessed by everyone chipping in and sharing to help fund my stem cell treatment in Mexico. Thank you,” he wrote.

The current push builds on momentum generated through earlier fundraising initiatives, including a well-attended come-and-go event held on Feb. 20 at

As the March 31 deadline approaches, organizers are encouraging continued sharing and donations to help carry the campaign across the finish line.

“We are so close and could not have gotten this far without each and every one of you,” the update reads.

Support for Craik remains ongoing through a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Chey Fight MS: Fund LifeChanging Treatment,” which continues to accept donations toward his treatment and recovery-related costs.

Clay Stapleton’s retirement gathering set for March 26

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Curling Centre will host a retirement gathering for longtime ice maker Clay Stapleton on Thursday, March 26, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Founders Lounge.

Stapleton is retiring after a 50year career in ice-making, having played a key role in maintaining the quality of ice at the facility over decades of local, provincial, and national-level play. The centre is inviting community members, curlers, and

colleagues to attend the informal gathering and celebrate his contributions and dedication to the sport.

Following his retirement, twotime Brier champion Pat Simmons has taken over as the Curling Centre’s new head ice technician.

The Moose Jaw Curling Centre is located in the Temple Gardens Centre at 110 First Avenue Northwest. For more information, call 306-694-4600.

Chey Craik, second from left, is surrounded by family members as community support continues to grow, with a fundraising campaign now nearing its goal to fund specialized MS treatment in Mexico. Photo by: GoFundMe.com

15 Wing stands with women on International Women’s Day

Military personnel and civilian attendees gathered at 15 Wing Moose Jaw on March 8 to mark International Women’s Day, celebrating allyship and the contributions of women in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

Held under the theme “Allyship in Action,” the event featured remarks from Lt.-Col. Guillaume Packer, who served as acting 15 Wing commander, keynote speaker Lt.-Col. Kim Wilton, and honorary colonels Crystal Froese and Paulette Connery. An all-women flyover team was recognized as part of the program.

In his opening remarks, Packer said the day was both a celebration and a time for reflection.

“International Women’s Day is a great opportunity to remind all of us that when women rise, communities rise, institutions strengthen, and nations succeed,” he said.

He said the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) continues working toward a more diverse and inclusive environment where members can reach their full potential based on “talent, dedication, character, and leadership.”

Packer pointed to women in senior leadership roles across the CAF and at 15 Wing, saying their example is helping shape the next generation of personnel.

Drawing on her own journey in uniform, Wilton spoke about the opportunities she has been afforded and the path paved by those who pushed for change before her.

“There is not a day that goes by that I’m not thankful as a woman to have been born in Canada when I was at this point in time,” she said.

Wilton said pilot roles in the RCAF opened to women in the 1980s, adding that many fought for that right long before she earned her wings.

“Because of (those who pushed for change before me), I deployed twice to Afghanistan, flying in combat as an aircraft captain on the Chinook helicopter as part of Operation Athena,” she said.

Now commandant of 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School in Portage la Prairie, Man., Wilton said ally-

ship requires more than words.

“Allyship is not theoretical. It is lived, practiced, and demonstrated, especially when it is uncomfortable, inconvenient, or unseen,” she said.

Her remarks focused on recognizing systemic barriers, creating space for others, and ensuring talent is not left on the margins.

“I will leave you with this: allyship is not an abstract ideal — it’s a daily choice,” she said. “I challenge each of you to ask yourselves not if you can be an ally, but how you will choose to be one.”

The CAF has seen several milestones in recent years, including at 15 Wing, where Lt.-Col. Maryse Carmichael became the first female commanding officer of the Canadian Forces Snowbirds in 2010 after joining the team as its first female pilot in 2001.

Women continue to hold key leadership roles at the base, including Wilton as commandant of 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, Chief Warrant Officer Rachel Fox as wing chief warrant officer, and Chief Warrant Officer Micheline Bertrand as chief warrant officer at 2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, helping train the next generation of pilots and aircrew.

ton, connecting those stories to the need to support women in leadership and public life.

“Violet McNaughton understood something powerful: influence comes from the circle around you, and she used hers,” Froese said. She said allyship means creating opportunities for others rather than protecting one’s own place.

“She didn’t guard her chair. She built a larger table, and that is allyship,” Froese said.

Connery, honorary colonel for 3 Canadian Forces Flying Training School, spoke about resilience, family, grief, and the lessons that shaped her approach to leadership. She described allyship as a practice requiring action, even in difficult moments.

Froese’s presentation drew on family history and the legacy of Saskatchewan suffragist Violet McNaugh-

“It’s speaking up when silence would be easier. It’s mentoring instead of competing. It’s opening doors and keeping those doors open,” Connery said.

Honorary Col. Crystal Froese, left, stands alongside fellow women in uniform during the International Women’s Day event at 15 Wing Moose Jaw on March 8. Photo by: Moose Jaw Mfrc/Facebook (screenshot)

‘Tintamarre’ parade brings visibility to Moose Jaw’s Francophone community

The sound of bells, whistles, and cheering voices filled the streets of Moose Jaw on March 18 as more than 400 students and community members took part in the annual Tintamarre parade, a lively celebration of Francophone culture and identity.

Organized by the Association communautaire fransaskoise de Moose Jaw (ACFMJ), the event began at Crescent Park before making its way through the downtown core, drawing attention from onlookers as participants waved flags and created a joyful chorus of noise.

For Christian Poumeni, community development officer with ACFMJ, the event remains an important way to make the Francophone presence visible in a predominantly English-speaking city.

“The event is happening to make sure that everybody here in Moose Jaw knows that there are a lot of Francophones who live here,” Poumeni said. “Today, this parade is to demonstrate that the Francophonie lives here in Moose Jaw.”

Poumeni said this year’s turnout included participation from several schools that have French immersion and Francophone programs.

“We are so happy to see the immersion schools — ?cole St. Margaret, ?cole Palliser Heights, and ?cole Ducharme,” he said. “We have more than 400 students attending today ….”

He added that the event continues to grow as more schools and residents take part, reinforcing its role as both a cultural celebration and a public statement of identity.

Tintamarre, which means “racket” or “uproar,” is rooted in

Acadian tradition and is celebrated in Francophone communities across Canada. Participants gather to make as much noise as possible, symbolizing both resilience and pride in the French language and culture.

In Moose Jaw, the event has become a cornerstone of the local Francophone calendar, bringing together students and community leaders each year.

Paulin Apipila, vice-president of the ACFMJ board, said the parade reflected

both the history and ongoing presence of French-speaking residents in the city.

“It is quite awesome to know that a French community is here in Moose Jaw and trying to promote different languages,” Apipila said. “We know that Canada has two official languages … and we know that Moose Jaw is an English city, but there is a community here that speaks French.”

Apipila, who has been involved with the organization since arriving in Moose Jaw in 2014, said the association

works year-round to create opportunities for connection and cultural exchange. He also encouraged residents from all backgrounds to get involved, noting that participation is open and welcoming.

“We invite each and every one … if they want to learn some French, the door is open,” Apipila said. “We organize some games, we sit, we talk … it’s not only about communicating as a language, but it’s a culture.”

Both organizers emphasized the importance of community support, thanking schools, partners, local police, and residents who accommodated the parade route.

“We want to thank all the schools that came today (and) all our sponsors,” Poumeni said. “And we want to thank you … for helping make sure the Francophone community is open and that our work is more visible in the community.”

To learn more about ACFMJ and available French-language services, visit ACFMJ.ca or “ACF Moose Jaw — Communaut? francophone” on Facebook. You can also call 306-6928112 or email ACFMooseJaw@gmail. com for further details.

Applications open for ‘Serve Moose Jaw Day’ ahead of April 8 deadline

Residents are reminded to apply ahead of the April 8 deadline for Briercrest College and Seminary’s upcoming “Serve Moose Jaw Day,” set for April 11 from 1 to 5 p.m.

The initiative will see student volunteers from the Caronport-based college travel into Moose Jaw to assist residents with a range of household tasks, including yard work, cleanup, and light outdoor projects. The program may be especially beneficial for seniors, individuals with mobility challenges, or anyone who may need extra help completing physically demanding work around their home. The service

is provided free of charge to residents. Those interested in receiving assistance or nominating someone who could benefit are encouraged to submit a request in advance to ensure volunteers can be matched with projects across the city.

To register, fill out the online form at https://forms.gle/roGhuVLokFi7Qpks5 or contact organizers by phone at 1-250-329-7742 or by email at AdrianLoewen8@gmail.com.

Look for further details on Page A30 of the Wednesday, March 11, 2026, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.

Photos by: Aaron Walker
Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

Warp VR opens downtown bringing immersive entertainment to Moose Jaw

A new downtown entertainment venue has officially opened its doors as Warp VR begins welcoming guests to its High Street West location following months of planning, renovations, and community anticipation.

The locally owned business, operated by Heidi Tiller and Justin Johnson, quietly launched with a soft opening before formally switching on its “open” sign on March 12.

The early response from the community has been encouraging, with a mix of walk-in traffic and advance bookings already filling the schedule.

“We’ve seen great interest — it’s very promising. When you’re opening a new business, it’s always a little bit scary, but so far the response from the community has been positive. We’ve even seen walk-in foot traffic, along with bookings for birthday parties, a hockey team, and a couple of schools,” Tiller said.

The venue builds on the couple’s earlier mobile VR offerings, expanding into a full-scale entertainment centre featuring two free-roam virtual reality arenas, an interactive gaming wall, and dedicated party spaces.

“We’ve got a large interactive gaming wall — about 13 and a half feet wide by nine feet tall — so it’s a huge touch screen that works well for all ages. We also have two VR free-roam arenas, each accommodating up to six people playing in the same game,” Tiller said.

Among the early highlights are immersive escape room-style experiences, including a virtual “Alice in Wonderland” game that challenges players to

work through a series of interactive puzzles.

The opening marks a milestone for the couple, who have spent months transforming the former retail spaces into a multi-use entertainment hub. While major construction is complete, they say the space will continue to evolve.

“It’s good to have the major renovations done, but there’s always going to be upgrades — it’ll be a bit of a neverending process until we’ve got it exactly where we want it,” Johnson said, noting that opening the space after months of work has been a rewarding experience.

Tiller added that the goal is to create a destination that caters to a wide range of visitors, from families to groups of friends.

“We want to make this a destination where people can have fun, stay active, and spend time with friends and family,” she said.

Bookings can be made online through the company’s website, though walk-ins are also accepted depending on availability.

Looking ahead, the owners say their focus remains on establishing the business locally and continuing to build community connections.

planned for April 2 at 2 p.m., featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony and opportunities for visitors to try the experiences firsthand, followed by promotional events during the spring break period.

Warp VR is located at 57 High Street West and can be reached at 306690-5509. For more information, find “WARP VR Entertainment Center” on Facebook or visit WarpVRCenter.com.

“Right now, we really want to make this a local thing … we just knew that Moose Jaw was missing something for all ages to do,” Tiller said.

A grand opening event is tentatively

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express
Warp VR is now open at 57 High Street West, operating out of the former Post Horizon Booksellers retail space and offering a new virtual reality entertainment experience for the community. Photo by: Aaron Walker
Heidi Tiller, left, and Justin Johnson, right, with their daughter, centre, are the family behind Warp VR, a new locally owned entertainment business in downtown Moose Jaw. Photo by: WARP VR Entertainment Center
Alessia celebrates her birthday at Warp VR, where she and her group take part in games using the venue’s interactive gaming wall. Photo by: WARP VR Entertainment Center

Sudoku #5 - Challenging

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

ACROSS

1. Severe

50. Cease

51. Pawpaw

11. Skylit lobbies

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

ACROSS, ADEPT, ADMIRE, CASINO, CATASTROPHE, CAVALRY CLANS, DADDY, DENSE, DODGERS, EFFORT, ELLIPSE, FARE FRAME, FRET, GRADUATION, IDOL, INSTEAD, INTEND, IRATE LOBSTER, NIPPLE, PURIFICATION, RATTLE, RELAX, RODEO, RUES RUMOR, SHONE, SORRY, TERSE, THIMBLE, WHELP

6. Kiln-dried barley

10. Moveable fence barrier

54. Celtic language

56. Distinctive flair

12. Labors

13. Devoid

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.

21. Female ruff

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

14. Deadly virus

15. Black-and-white cookie

16. “Smallest” particle

57. Doodler’s tablet

63. Hue

64. Suckling spot

25. Connecting point

26. Birdbrain

27. Interruption

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.

17. Pizazz

18. Coffee dispensers

19. Dribble

20. Affection

22. Covered in gold

23. Of higher order

24. Apprehensive

26. Moist

30. Hearing organ

31. Cooking container

32. Buckeye State

33. Sanction

35. Writing tables

39. Resident

41. Increase (an incline)

43. Alpha’s opposite

44. Toadfish

46. Hindu princess

47. North northeast

49. By way of

65. Coniferous forest

66. Cain’s brother

67. Border

68. Was laid up

69. Easter flower

70. Marsh plant

71. Clothe

DOWN

1. Weight

2. Possessing necessary skills

3. Horse color

4. Slipped

5. A group of concubines

6. “Tall hills”

7. Past-due debts

8. Focusing glass

9. Even chance

10. Gizmo inventors

28. Not yours

29. Touchingly

34. Inhale

36. Expectorated

37. Bingo relative

38. Short cut

40. Madcap

42. Breakfast bread

45. Arithmetic mean

48. Christian holy day

51. Flower feature

52. Excuse

53. Committee

55. Outward

58. Formally surrender

59. Whiskers or locks

60. Heap

61. Long, long time

62. Fathers

"Outside of a dog, a book is a man's best friend. Inside of a dog it's too dark to read."

205 WANTED

Looking To Rent - Garage/warehouse/ or unused semi-trailer unit. Prefer downtown area. Will consider other options. Can be reached at 306-313-3439.

Local buyer looking for sport card collections, retro video games, and systems, toys from the 80’s, 90’s and earlier. Basement estate and clean outs welcome. Cash paid. Call or text 306-527-7786.

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.

CLASSIFIED ADS

145 REAL ESTATE

1500 Square foot condo, located at 149 Hoch. St. W. Single attached garage, large deck at rear and off master bedroom, HEATED OUTDOOR POOL, new steel exterior wall, new roofing on flat roof, new white vinyl fence, newer A/C, large tub in master. Please call 306-631-0525.

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. Will pick up, move, haul, and deliver any appliances, tvs, furniture, or anything large in and

around Moose Jaw, $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

Seniors ... need help with cleaning, decluttering, organizing, or small chores? Reasonable rates. Please call 306-313-8122.

I will do your taxes. Many years of experience. Personal and business. Please call Vienna at 250-308-9201. Offering pet cleaning services. I can clean your litter boxes, back yard, and more. Call 306-9900214

188 HEALTH & BEAUTY SUPPLIES

Mobility

Scooter for Sale: The Express Element –Range 50 km, tubeless tires, LED lights,

horn, speed up to 25/km, rear basket, under seat storage, and bag hook. BRAND NEW $3995.00. Call 306-694-1322 for more information.

165 HOUSEHOLD

Shuffleboard, solid wood, 3’x9’ with rocks; 2 drawer filing cabinet; antique oak swivle office chair; 3 student desks, 4’x2’; wooden drop down kitchen table w/ 4 chairs; Braun 3 speed mixer; five gallon fish tank; cuckoo clock; Red Wing crock, 5 gallons; brothers portable sewing machine, perfect condition. Call 306-693-1023.

maintenance duties and performing minor repairs as necessary, reporting any major issues to the maintenance chairperson.

The successful candidate must have either a recent or undergo a Criminal Check and be bondable. Applicants should have a minimum of 2 or more years of related experience. A reman and/or boiler certi cate would be an asset but is not a requirement.

Please submit resume including 3 work related references in person during o ce hours Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 9am to 1pm at 140 High St East, Moose Jaw or via email at rosewoodhousing@outlook.com. Applicants may also contact the Personnel Chair at 780-228-6348 from 12pm to 5pm. HELP WANTED: CUSTODIAN/MAINTENANCE PERSON

Young anglers take to the ice for annual family fishing tournament

Young anglers and their families braved windy conditions earlier this month as the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation hosted its annual Youth and Family Ice Fishing Tournament at Buffalo Pound Lake.

Held March 7 at the provincial park boat launch, the event brought participants of all ages onto the ice for a day focused on outdoor recreation and community engagement.

Despite the weather, organizers reported strong participation, with children continuing to reel in fish throughout the event.

“It was a windy day on the ice, but the kids were still bringing the fish into the measuring station,” the Federation shared following the tournament.

The event featured multiple prize categories, including youth divisions for perch and other species, along with awards for the largest fish caught in both youth and adult categories.

Kaedyn and Milo were recognized as top finishers in the youth divisions, each earning a cash prize as well as a gift certificate for a guided fishing experience.

“They each took home a cash payout plus a gift certificate for a guided fishing adventure with South Sask Fishing Adventures,” the Federation wrote.

Open to children aged two to 15, the tournament encouraged families to take part together, emphasizing

shared time outdoors and hands-on learning on the ice. Participants could register individually or as a family, with those who signed up in advance also treated to a barbecue lunch.

The event was supported by a strong network of community partners, with local businesses and organizations playing a key role in making the day possible.

“Thanks to all our volunteers, participants, and our sponsors (who helped) make this day happen,” organizers shared.

Additional recognition was given to returning sponsors who continue to support the event year after year.

“A huge thank you goes out to Cass and Colby from 306 Dustless Blasting and Sparkle & Shine for supporting our tournament again this year. Phenomenal support from local businesses (helps) to make this tournament a success,” the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation said in a statement.

The annual tournament remains a key part of the Federation’s efforts to promote outdoor activity, introduce youth to angling, and strengthen community connections through shared experiences on the ice.

For more information about the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation, visit “Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation” on Facebook or MJWildlife.ca.

Kaedyn, left, and Milo, right, were top winners in the Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation’s Youth and Family Ice Fishing Tournament on March 7 at Buffalo Pound Lake, taking first place in the “Kids Perch” and “Kids Other Fish” categories. Both received a cash prize and a guided fishing trip courtesy of South Sask Fishing Adventures.
Photo by: Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation

Antiques show offers vintage finds, familiar memories at Exhibition Grounds

For collectors, history enthusiasts, and those drawn to the stories behind wellworn objects, the Moose Jaw Antiques and Collectibles Show offered visitors a walk through time last weekend.

Held March 20 and 21 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Grounds, the long-running event once again brought together vendors and visitors from across the Prairies, filling the convention centre with rows of antiques, memorabilia, and artifacts that reflected decades of everyday life.

Hosted by the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum, the show serves as a key fundraiser and marks the beginning of the museum’s annual season.

“Well, we’ve been doing this for over 40 years, and it’s a big fundraiser for our museum,” said Garry Davis, a member of the museum’s board of directors who serves as secretary. “It’s the first event of the season and kicks off all our events for the year, and it’s become very popular.”

The doors opened to immediate interest, with early attendees forming lineups to be among the first to browse tables arranged with everything from vintage books and glassware to collectible signage and toys. For many, the appeal extended beyond the items themselves.

Visitors browse tables of antiques and collectibles during the Moose Jaw Antiques and Collectibles Show at the Exhibition Grounds on March 20, where vendors from across the Prairies offered a wide range of vintage items and memorabilia. Photo by: Aaron Walker

“No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll probably find it here if you like old stuff — it’s kind of a walk down memory lane,” Davis said. “You’ll hear people say, ‘Oh, my grandma used to have one of those,’ or ‘My mom had one of those hanging on the kitchen wall.’”

Roughly 60 vendors took part this year, including participants from Yorkton, Regina, Medicine Hat, and Kenora, alongside local sellers. About 20 were new to the show, while others returned as part of a familiar circuit. Each table offered its own curated glimpse into the past, with items sourced from personal collections, estate finds, and years of dedicated collecting.

Wildlife Federation fundraiser dinner set for April 18

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

The Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation is inviting the community to its annual fundraising dinner, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails, followed by supper at 7 p.m.

The evening will feature a range of activities, including a silent auction, live auction, raffle tables, a 50/50 draw, and a mystery box draw.

Tickets are $50 each, with proceeds supporting the Federation’s ongoing conservation and education

For Moose Jaw vendor Les Rigden, the show is both a place to share those collections and to connect with others who appreciate them.

“I’ve been collecting since I was six years old, so I’ve been doing it a long time,” Rigden said.

His display included small-town history books, glassware, jewelry, and signage, reflecting decades of collecting shaped by personal interest and experience.

“It’s a good place to get rid of your stuff. You meet a lot of interesting people, and it’s fun to see the same faces every year,” he said.

Sales varied depending on the item, though Rigden noted early interest in locally themed materials.

“A lot of small town community books … have been selling well,” he said.

All items at the show were available for purchase, creating an environment that blended informal exhibition with active trade — a format that continues to draw both seasoned collectors and casual visitors.

In addition to vendor tables, the event featured a 50/50 draw and a museum information booth, where attendees could learn more about the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and its upcoming season.

The museum is scheduled to reopen May 13, with a series of events planned throughout the summer, including a Show and Shine on June 6, a flea market on June 21, Family Day celebrations on July 19, and the Threshing Bee on Sept. 12 and 13.

For more information about the Sukanen Ship Pioneer Village and Museum and its upcoming events, visit SukanenShipMuseum.ca.

Rigden, left, and his assistant, right, take part in the Moose Jaw Antiques and Collectibles Show at the Exhibition Grounds on March 20. Rigden, a longtime collector, has been attending the show for decades, offering a selection of books, glassware, and collectibles from his personal collection. Photo by: Aaron Walker

Cosmo Crafts and Trades Fair set for March 28

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

initiatives. These include programs such as Pheasants in the Schools, Fish in the Schools, Classrooms on Ice, the Hamilton Flats Reclamation Project, and the walleye hatchery at Buffalo Pound Lake.

Tickets can be purchased by contacting Doreen at 306-692-4148, Sandra at 306-692-8848, or by email at MJWildlife.Federation@gmail.com.

Look for further details in an upcoming edition of the Moose Jaw Express.

The Cosmo Crafts and Trades Fair will take place Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cosmo Centre.

The annual event will feature close to 45 vendors offering a range of items, including jewelry, crafts, baked goods, home decor, and specialty products, with activities and fundraising efforts taking place throughout.

“This year we’ve opened up the lower level because we’ve had so many vendors, so the lower level will be included in the craft fair,” executive director Penny Gustafson told the

Moose Jaw Express earlier.

Admission is $2 per person, with the centre’s kitchen open during the event and additional activities, including raffles, a penny parade, and a quilt raffle.

For more information, contact the Cosmo Centre at 306-692-6072. The Cosmo Centre is located at 235 Third Avenue Northeast.

Look for further details on Page A29 of the Wednesday, March 11, 2026, edition of the Moose Jaw Express.

Les

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.

Gossip

March 25 is the Christian Feast of the Annunciation. (The timing is nine months before December 25.) The day commemorates the visit of the angel Gabriel to a young woman in Nazareth named Mary with a special message. “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.” (Luke 1:30-32) Mary was perplexed. “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.” (Luke 1:34-35)

As the months went on, Mary began to show signs of pregnancy, and one can imagine that the gossip started in the community about this turn of events in Mary’s life. Mary’s fiancée/husband, Joseph, heard the whispers of gossip too. “Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.” (Matthew 1:19) Christians believe that God countered all the gossip with a word of truth. “An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their

sins.”” (Matthew 1:20-21)

Gossip means rumours or information about the behaviour or personal lives of other people. Gossip has become a multi-billion dollar industry. The gossip magazine was an integral part of the culture 25 years ago but is being replaced by the rise of social media. There is ongoing online gossip shared in the areas of political drama, influencers, and true crime stories.

The word gossip has its origins in the Old English (450-1150 AD) word godsibb Sibb means relative or kinsman. Godsibb refers to a person who was spiritually related to another person, used specifically for a godparent at baptism. In Middle English (11501500) the word changed slightly to gossib, used for a close friend, any relative, and as well as a godparent.

In the 14th century a gossib was extended to a familiar acquaintance, a friend, or neighbor. This applied especially to women friends invited to attend a birth, who spent a lot of time talking about people and events. By the mid-1500s a gossib referred to anyone engaging in idle talk about others.

Gossib was used to describe one who was known for spilling the tea. The phrase spilling the tea was utilized to label a person who shared information of a private and personal nature of someone else. The community designated her as a gossib for spilling the tea about the pregnancy before the expectant mother had a chance to inform her husband.

In the early 1600s gossip was used as a verb to designate spilling the tea. Whenever they got together the group liked to gossip about the various families in the town.

By the early 1800s gossip was further extended to trifling talk and groundless rumour. Gossip began to be used more and more for information shared about the behaviour or lives of famous people. The beginnings of the gossip column started to take form.

“You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour,” declares the 8th Commandment. God commands people to protect the name of others, rather than sharing gossip about them. Instead of gossip we should speak kindly of others and put the best construction on their actions. Gossip can destroy a person’s reputation whether the gossip is true or not.

The late Pope Francis said that gossip is a plague that is seeking to divide the Roman Catholic church. Francis reiterated his frequent complaint

about gossiping within church communities and the Vatican bureaucracy. He went on to say the devil is the “biggest gossiper” who is seeking to divide the church with his lies. “Please brothers and sisters, let’s try to not gossip,” he said. “Gossip is a plague worse than Covid.”

If the facts are true, is it still gossip? Yes, gossip is the sharing of private, sensitive information about someone in their absence, rather than the accuracy of the statements. Even true information can be hurtful and destructive to a person’s reputation.

Martin Luther wrote, “We should not tell lies about our neighbor, betray him, slander him, or hurt his reputation, but defend him, speak well of him, and explain everything in the kindest way.”

It is in society’s best interest to avoid gossip When gossiping begins one could say, “That’s may be interesting, but that’s not really any of our business.”

SELF online magazine is recognized as a global thought leader in health content and has won numerous awards, including a National Magazine Award, Webby’s People’s Voice award, and MM&M Gold Award. In an article by Jenna Ryu in April 2205, she wrote, “Talking about others (both positively and negatively) is a biologically human way of bonding and making sense of our relationships. Find ways to make your gossip less mean-spirited, less habitual, and, ideally, a whole lot less toxic. Here’s how: talk with a purpose, choose your confidante wisely, focus on the behaviour not their character, put a time cap on your gab sessions, don’t share screenshots, and get into the habit of putting empathy before gossip.”

In short, think before you speak, and speak well when you do, as gossip is not nice.

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.

Going ABOVE and BEYOND expectations is what sets us apart

OPINION/COMMENTARY

Re: Saskatchewan Prosperity Project

On Jan. 10, 2026 the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) paused its proposed amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations. The pause is in place until the proposed changes are more widely understood and concerns are heard and taken into consideration.

I spent some time reviewing the March 2023 Cost Benefit Analysis prepared by Economic Affairs for CFIA. The regulatory proposal is intended to “strengthen existing livestock identification and traceability requirements in Canada to enable effective and timely animal disease control and to improve the protection of animal health, public health and food safety”. The current livestock traceability system in place for beef, dairy, bison, pig and sheep is a “book end” traceability system. In most provinces information is available on the farm of origin and the site where the animal is slaughtered or dies. The proposed system is enhanced to include regulated movements while the animal is alive and expands the scope of animals to goats and cervids (deer, elk). The proposed amendments are anticipated to add about $2.85M to the Canadian economy with a questionable benefit cost ratio of 1.24:1, which is little more than a make work project. As a beef producer, I need more detail before I support the proposal.

The beef cattle industry is expected to bear 81.43% of the $11.19M annualized incremental cost.

To offset some of the additional costs of the regulation CFIA is willing to repeal some industry record keeping requirements for $8.48M in annual savings. For the average beef operation the annual savings would be $40. So the average beef business is worse off by $74/year with the proposed regulations. Now is a good time to pause and ask, wouldn’t the Canadian economy be better off by $8.48M by just repealing the record keeping requirements and not introducing the $11.19M in additional traceability costs?

Enter the foot and mount disease (FMD) virus to tip the scales in favour of increased traceability costs. CFIA defines FMD as a severe highly contagious viral disease of cattle, swine and sheep and other cloven hoofed animals such as goats, deer and bison. According to Wikipedia humans are rarely affected by FMD. Affected animals may have a fever for 2-6 days followed by blisters inside the mouth and on the feet among other symptoms. Most animals recover from FMD, some may experience myocarditis and death. There is a fundamental problem with the viral theory of disease transmission in that virologists or anybody else for that matter has yet to isolate a supposed disease causing virus particle (see A Farewell to Virology (Expert Edition) by Dr. Mark Bailey). The model of viral disease transmission is just that a model created by some humans without any physical evidence. That is not to say that there are not clinical signs like fever, blisters or sores associated with the condition of FMD, but that there is no physical virus particle initiating the conditions. Nonetheless, with the aid of computer models and 30,000 simulations for a yet to be physically isolated disease causing particle with the proposed traceability regulations about 12,000 less pigs and about 5,000 less beef animals would be destroyed saving CFIA an estimated $1.28 M annually

for reduced eradication and containment costs. And because there is a “consensus in the literature” by having an enhanced traceability system should an FMD outbreak be declared, the chance of having a one year trade embargo vs. a two year embargo increases about 2.5% from 95.93% to 98.49% for an estimated $4.86M annualized beef industry benefit. The study acknowledges that the “enhanced traceability is not developed to solely address a FMD outbreak” and there is “uncertainty around the actual response of importing countries to an FMD outbreak”.

As a beef producer, I think the CFIA and Economic Affairs are grasping at straws to persuade beef producers, that it is in their best interest to accept the $114 annual additional costs associated with proposed traceability amendments with little more than some imaginary benefits

As a Canadian citizen my understanding and concern with the proposed changes is that the CFIA wants to have an enhanced relationship with our food for no acceptable reason. The CFIA should abandon the notion of the proposed regulated movement requirements. Based on the above it is difficult to not evoke the stereotypical image of government bureaucracy fouling up something simple or meddling where they need not be meddling.

Richard Marleau MSc Agriculture Economics Ponteix, Saskatchewan

TRINITY UNITED CHURCH

UPCOMING EVENTS IN MOOSE JAW

If you would like your notice or event added to this list, contact us at: joan@moosejawexpress.com

The Moose Jaw Branch of SGS meeting will be held on Wednesday March 25 at 7pm in the Moose Jaw Public Library to welcome a representative of the Moose Jaw Police Service to discuss some of the early history of policing in Moose Jaw as well as the changes and challenges that policing has experienced over time. Everyone Welcome. Moose Jaw Town and Country Singles Dance will be held on Saturday March 28,2026 at Church of Our Lady Community Center 566 Vaughan St. W. from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm. Band is Len Gadica. Come on out for an evening of fun! Married couples are welcome. Coffee and bottled water are provided. Cost is $15 for non members and $13 for members. For more information contact Marion at 306-630-1492.

Town ‘N Country Mall

50+ coffee club Meet & Greet every Monday @2pm at Engage Cafe

Running Wild Rescue Adoption Fundraiser Event on March 28 - 11am to 4pm. Meet Adoptable Animals. 50/50 Draw, Donation Drive/Pet Selfie Booth, Pet Themed Crafts/Adoption & Fostering Table

Saturday April 4 - 1pm to 4pm: Face Painting, Cookie Decorating, Easter Crafts and Egg Hunt

1pm to 5pm. Easter Bunny Photos Only $10 Tuesday April 7 Green Shirt Day with information on Organ Donations posted on the walls.

Thursday April 9 Vimy Ridge Day with trivia questions posted on the wall at centre court.

Saturday April 11 Sunflower Planting Event. Come plant sunflowers and take them home to look after. There will be a prize for the largest sunflower.

Thursday April 16 @ 4pm Sask Polytech Startup Challenge Final Pitch Event. Entrepreneurs compete for $25,000 in prizes.

Friday April 24 - 11am to 5pm and Saturday April 25 9am to 2pm there will be a Second Chance Community Sale. A bunch of sellers with their used goods all in 1 space. If interested in more information email gail@ptccyvr.com

Ham & Scalloped Potato Supper will be held on March 29th @ 5 pm. At Trinity United Church

277 Iroquois St. W. Tickets are $25 and can be reserved by calling Gail, 306-694-0051.

Drinkwater Spring Trade Show will be held on April 11th from 9am-5pm. $2 admission, enter for for prizes. Come out and enjoy the day shopping for treasures, amazing hand-crafted products and homemade goodies! Watch for the signs on the highway and town. Homemade lunch available. Vendors will be featured on Facebook page. For more information call Buck @ 306-681-9442

Moose Jaw Wildlife Federation 29th Annual Fundraising Dinner will be held on Saturday, April 18 at the Moose Jaw Exhibition Centre, 250 Thatcher Drive East. Doors Open at 5:30 pm Roast Beef Supper @ 7:00 p.m./ Tickets - $50.00. Contact- Doreen @ 306-692-4148/ Sandra @ 306-692-8848

Email:mjwildlife.federation@gmail.com. All proceeds raised go towards supporting our many projects within the community. South Saskatchewan Wildlife Association annual awards night and banquet April 18. Tickets available, contact Gregg 306-692-9822.

Saskatchewan Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum Inc Annual General Meeting on Sunday, April 19, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum, 292 - 22nd Street Battleford SK. Phone: 306 446 1983.

Bridge Lessons until April 23 for 9 wks. – Every Thursday from 7 pm to 9 pm. Cost $40/person at the Cosmo Centre, 235 3rd Ave NE. More info: Anita – 306-630-1256 anitadunkz@gmail. com or Gail – 306-630-9430

Scottish Country Dancing has resumed at 7 pm on Thursdays @Timothy Eaton’s Centre, 510 Main St. N. No partner required. Ages 8 and up including grandparents. Contact: Val, 306-6305790

White Heather Youth Pipe Band in Moose Jaw looking for new players ages eight and older. New players will have the opportunity to try out drum sticks on pads and practice chanters with the instructors and will be introduced to some of the children already members of the band. Contact Michelle Carline at <mcarline@hotmail.com>

The Prairie Hearts Quilters Guild is held 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7 pm. At Zion church from Sept to May. The Moose Jaw Stamp Club has resumed meeting the second and fourth Wednesday nights of the month at 7:00pm at the Lindale School staff room. For information call 306-693-5705. Moose Jaw Parkinsons Support Group meet at 1:30 p.m. on the last Monday of the following months: February, March,

April and May. Meetings are held at Hillcrest Apostolic Church, Moose Jaw. Call or text 306 756 2819

Moose Jaw Town N Country Square Dance Assoc. 20252026 Program on Monday nights from 7-9 pm at St. Margaret’s School, 449 5Th Ave NE. Dance in square with family and friends. For information contact Valerie Wright at 306.691.0579. Beginners, singles, or doubles welcome!

Nature Moose Jaw will hold their meetings on a once-a-month status to take place on the third Friday of each month Church of Our Lady Bingo takes place at the Church of Our Lady Community Centre, 566 Vaughan Street on Tuesday evenings. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Bingo begins at 7:00 p.m. Are you struggling with addictions? Do you know someone who is? Or do you want to learn more about overcoming addiction to help others? Pastor Cory Havanka and his wife

Brenda will be offering an in-person, small-group, course that will explore how to overcome addiction that is based on Biblical foundations. For questions - Call or text Cory at 306684-1464 or email firmfoundationministries.inc@gmail.com

Firm Foundation Ministries provides other services as well: -Bible study - Monday evenings at 630 p.m/Prayer meetings - Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m/Pastoral counselling. Check Facebook or Instagram for updates on services, events, bible study notes and words from the Lord. Nar-Anon Meetings every Monday 7—8pm (Moose Jaw NarAnon Family Group) is a twelve-step program for relatives and friends affected by someone else’s drug use and is in-person at Moose Jaw Alliance Church, 14 Neslia Place. Come in Main Doors – Meeting Rm 103. Your anonymity and what you say at meetings will be carefully guarded.

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Weight Loss Support Group Meets at the Cosmo Senior Citizen’s Centre, 235 –3rd Ave. N.E. The group meets every Wednesday morning. Weigh ins are 8-8:45 am. Meeting to follow. . scale weighs up to 350 pounds. Join for friendship and support on your weight loss journey. For more information go to www.tops.org

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meetings every Wednesday evening too in the Alliance Church located at the corner of 9th Ave NE and Thatcher Dr. Use the West side entrance and you’ll find us down the hall in room 107. Weigh ins are 6:30-7 followed by a half hour meeting. Scale weighs up to 500lbs. Join us as we support each other on our weight loss journeys. Visit www. tops.org for more information.

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.

Movie Club

Network: Directed by Sidney Lumet, the 1976 satire Network follows a troubled news anchor whose on-air breakdown is exploited for ratings. Show date: Monday, March 30

Documentary Night features films that rarely hit theatres and runs the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in the theatre.

Free Solo: This Oscar-winning documentary follows climber Alex Honnold as he attempts a historic, rope-free ascent of the 3,000-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park Show date: Thursday, March 26

Maker Nights

Maker Nights offer an evening of learning and creating. Register by calling 306-692-2787. The program runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Herb Taylor Room for ages 13 and up.

LEGO Weekends: These are open for ages four and up during regular business hours on weekends. 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. Children enjoy stories, rhymes, and songs while caregivers learn early literacy strategies.

Preschool Storytime: Wednesday, March 25

Daycare Storytime: Monday, March 30

Be sure to check out TumbleBooks for Kids in the Digital Library. Standalone events

Paper Moon Writing Collective: Paper Moon is a monthly gathering for writers, offering guided prompts, quiet writing time, and optional sharing in a supportive, judgment-free space on the first Tuesday of each month. To learn more, 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. The event is free.

CRA and Service Canada drop-in clinic: Representatives from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and Service Canada will be at the library to offer in-person help with tax questions,

federal benefits, pensions, and account updates. A volunteer will also provide free tax filing for eligible individuals with modest incomes and simple returns. Guests must bring photo ID and their Social Insurance Number (SIN). The clinic will take place in the Reading Room from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 26.

Youth programming

The 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 theatre, and yes — cosplay is welcome.

Next Anime+ meeting: Featuring The Silent Witch on Wednesday, March 25

The Rook Room: The public library concluded its partnership with the Moose Jaw Chess Club, replacing it with a staff-led program called “The Rook Room.” The program is held in the Reading Room and is free for guests of all ages to attend on a drop-in basis.

Next ‘Rook Room’ meeting: Saturday, March 28

Royal Canadian Legion – Branch 59 Moose Jaw, 693 Fairford St W. Contact: 306-692-5453

Facebook @ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION-Branch 59 Moose Jaw

OFFICE HOURS: Monday – Friday 9:30am-4:00pm

LOUNGE HOURS: Sunday 11:00am – 3:00pm (when there’s Curling); Monday 12:00pm – 9:00pm; Tuesday 12:00pm –5:00pm; Wednesday 12:00pm – 10:00pm; Thursday 10:00am – 10:00pm; Friday 12:00pm – 10:00pm; and Saturday 12:00pm – 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 @ 3pmEveryone 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 Moose Jaw & District Seniors Assoc. Inc. Website –moosejawseniors.ca. For more information Call: 306-6944223 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 @ 1pm.- 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 – 9am every Tuesday

Line Dancing – Wednesday @ 11 a.m.

Art & Crafts – Monday, Tuesdays & Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Floor Shuffleboard – Tuesdays & Thursdays @ 1 p.m.

Paper Tole – Tuesdays @ 1 p.m.

Nickle Bingo – Fridays @ 1 p.m.

Quilting – Every Tuesday & Friday 9am to 4pm, Lounge – Friday’s 2 p.m. to 4 p.m./Jam Sessions – Friday’s 9 a.m.

Texas Hold’em - Thursday @ 6:30pm Tuesday Cards – 6:30pm

Floor Curling – Fridays @ 1pm

Bingo – Monday afternoons 1:30pm -3:30pm and Wednesday

evenings 6:30pm-8:30pm

Darts – Wednesday’s @ 10am

Consignment Area – Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-3pm, Wednesdays 10am-12pm

Cosmo Centre Activities - cosmoseniorcentre.com; 235 - 3rd Ave NE, (306) 692-6072, cosmo@sasktel.netCosmo Coffee Shoppe - open daily from 9:00a - 3:00p
Lunch Special - $10/ person Tuesdays 11:30a
Pie Special - $4.50/person Thursdays 10:00a - 3:00p
Fitness Room - 8:15a - 3:00p
Indoor Walking -

various times
Pickleball - various times
Beginner Line DanceMonday 10:45a
Floor Shuffleboard - Monday & Wednesday 1:00p
Weekly Dance - Tuesdays 9:30a
Fitness ClassWednesday 10:45a
Line Dance - Thursday 10:00a
CanastaThursday 1:30p
Euchre - Thursday 10:30a
Cornhole - Friday 10:45a
Crib - Friday 1:00p Saturday, March 28 Cosmo Centre Crafts and Trades Fair from 9:00am - 3:00pm; $2 admission. Coffee Shoppe is open for baking and lunch. 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!

Rib Night at The Crushed Can on March 26. Come on down! Tickets available at the door. Weekdays: 12 pm to 6:30 pm/ Friday: 12 pm to 10 pm. Pool is from 6 pm - 10 pm/Saturday: 12 pm to 7 pm.

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”. Everyone welcome – non-members just make sure that you have “signed in” as a guest in order to participate.

EVERY SUNDAY: Aerie “Meat Draw” – ticket sales start at 2:30 pm – Meat Draw, 50/50, Mystery Draw, “Chase the Ace”. Everyone welcome – non-members just make sure that you have “signed in” as a guest in order to participate. MONDAY THRU SATURDAY – DROP IN POOL – 1:00 pm to 1:30 start time. Singles and Doubles. EVERY MONDAY EVENING – DROP IN CRIBBAGE –Registration 6:00 t 6:30 pm – play starts 7:00 pm – bring a partner - $2.00 each to play. September thru to April. EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING – DROP IN DARTS – Draw for Partners, Play starts at 7:00 pm - $2.00 per person. September thru to April.

EVERY THURSDAY EVENING – DROP IN SHUFFLEBOARD –Draw for Teams - Play starts at 7:00 pm - $2.00 per person. FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY – Aerie meeting – 11:30 am FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY – Ladies Auxiliary meeting7:00 pm

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 Cribbage Tournament Eagles Club Hall- Maximum 25 tables. Registration 9:30 am, play starts at 10:00 - there will be a break for lunch. $25.00 per player - Lunch Included in Registration. Call Gary Guy for more information 306-630-8488

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 - CABARET Eagles Club Hall - Music by Brandon & Company - Advance Tickets available at the Eagles Club bar - $10.00, at the door $15.00. Doors open at 7:30 Music starts at 8:30.

SUNDAY, MARCH 29 - Ladies Auxiliary “Last Sunday of the Month” supper - Menu - Main: Ham n’ Scalloped Potatoes Sides: Cabbage Roll, Veggies, Salad, Roll - Dessert Included $15.00. Advance Tickets available at the Eagles Club Bar or via E-Transfer at foe3395aux@shaw.ca Eat in the comort of our lounge or take out. Don’t miss out - get your tickets early!

SATURDAY, APRIL 25 - CABARET Eagles Club Hall - Music by Stray Dogs - Advance Tickets available at the Eagles Club bar - $20.00 - $25.00 at the door. Doors open at 7:30, Music starts at 8:30.

SATURDAY, JUNE 27 - EAGLES LOT PARTY!!!! Bands, Dancing, Bar, Food….watch for upcoming posts for more details.

SUNDAY, JUNE 28 - EAGLES LOT FUN DAY …. Pancake Breakfast, Games…..watch for upcoming posts for more details.

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

Treaty Timeline: The treaty timeline exhibit has now moved from Moose Jaw to the North Battleford branch of the WDM and will remain on view until April 10. 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.

306-694-4747

324 Main Street N. Moose Jaw, SK

Derek McRitchie REALTOR® (306) 631-1161

E.G. (Bub) Hill REALTOR® (306) 631-9966

Tanya Minchin REALTOR® (306) 630-6231

Cassie Nichol REALTOR® (306) 631-0691

Justin Hammer REALTOR® (306)684-4266

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3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, upgraded, windows, electrical, water heater, high e ciency furnace, central air, siding, attached garage, stainless steel appliances, large master bedroom, hot tub, developed basement. This character- lled home is as dependable as it is inviting.

bedroom, 2 bathroom, over 1600 sq ft, new furnace,water heater, 3rd oor loft, re escape to 2nd oor, large garage with work shop, located close to schools and walking distance to downtown, fenced back yard.

Location and potential, over 67 acres, 2 mins east of Moose Jaw on HWY 1, zoned agricultural, but o ers potential to zone commercial, services are close adding to the possibilities.

Family Services finishes second as Moose Jaw sweeps ‘Survey Says Charity Challenge’

Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. (MJFS) is celebrating a strong showing at this year’s “Survey Says Charity Challenge,” bringing home $7,500 to support its programs after finishing second in the live game-show fundraiser earlier this month.

The Family Feud-style event took place March 3 at the Casino Regina Show Lounge, where several charities from across southern Saskatchewan competed for a share of $30,000 in prize funding.

Executive director Tara Jones described the evening as both entertaining and rewarding.

“It was really fun. We got to be there with other like-minded organizations that share really similar goals, so it was great being around some of our compatriots,” Jones said. “Before the event, we had our booths set up and were able to chat with people about who we are and what we do, and then the actual event itself was just a blast.”

Each participating charity was represented on stage by one team member, with additional teammates randomly selected from audience members attending the show.

MJFS finished second in the competition, earning $7,500, while the Moose Jaw & District Food Bank took first place, giving Moose Jaw a clean sweep of the event’s top prizes. While the organization has not yet decided exactly

Aaron Walker - Moose Jaw Express

how the funds will be allocated, Jones said the money will support a range of programs delivered through the agency.

“We haven’t assigned the money to a specific program yet, but it will go toward supporting our programs, including youth mentorship and counseling,” she said.

The prize money arrives during a challenging week for the organization,

after an unexpected infrastructure issue forced temporary adjustments to operations at the building.

“We’ve actually had our sewer line collapse this week,” Jones said. “So now … it was like, ‘Hey, here’s some money coming in,’ but now we’re dealing with a big financial strain because we have to replace our sewer line.”

Despite the setback, she said servic-

es are continuing, with counseling appointments shifting to virtual meetings where needed.

Jones said the sweep was a point of pride for the Friendly City.

“We are very proud of Moose Jaw,” Jones said. “There wasn’t a single organization there that we wouldn’t have been thrilled to see win, because everybody is doing such amazing, vital work. It was an extra little perk that Moose Jaw ended up with the clean sweep.”

Community support was also evident, with MJFS organizing a charter bus to bring local residents to Regina for the event.

“We were able to distribute 30 tickets, so we had 30 Moose Jaw residents come out to support MJFS at the event,” she said.

Jones also thanked Purposed Financial Corporation for sponsoring the bus transportation for supporters attending the event, as well as Casinos Regina and Moose Jaw for hosting the fundraiser.

“They were so great. We just reached out with a quick email, and they responded right away with, ‘Yes, we absolutely want to do that for you,’” she said of Purposed Financial.

For more information, visit MJFamilyServices.ca or call 306-694-8133. Moose Jaw Family Services is located at 200 Main Street South.

#1 Highway, Moose Jaw RM No. 161
1032 Grafton Ave
Representatives from Moose Jaw Family Services Inc. display their $7,500 prize cheque following the “Survey Says Charity Challenge” fundraiser at the Casino Regina Show Lounge. Photo by: Moose Jaw Family Services Inc.

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