It May be Time to See What’s New with STS Moose Jaw

Superannuated Teachers of Saskatchewan Moose Jaw Branch

Seasons of Change

Message From Your Local Branch President

While looking at the snow laying around in my backyard, it’s hard to believe that by the end of the month we will have our yards cleaned up, gardens planted, and most of our flowers potted. Winter has certainly worn out its welcome. As we were turning up the thermostat week upon week, I made several new soups after I shuffled inside after shoveling more snow. The Sweet Potato-Black Bean is posted in the recipe section.

During my travels, I continue to see rural schools or school sites from the early days of Saskatchewan. I often think of the students and the teachers who laid the foundation of the education system we now enjoy. While looking through old pictures I found one of my own grade two class. I’m the one with the braids, in the front row. My teacher, in a rural one-room school, took photos of her classes each year and it is remarkable how well preserved those black and white pictures are.

A group of children in an old, black-and-white photograph

In additions to schools, every community built a church, and we still see them dotted about the countryside. Some have become historic sites. Some are still used. One of the most impressive road intersections is near Maryfield where four churches still remain, one on each corner, and one being the St. Ascension Ukrainian church. Constructed of wood, the building is crumbling and, along with it, the memories of those who toiled to build what was once a magnificent center of the community. Some people love old barns, or old houses. I love old churches and schools and I’ll take many detours to wander around the yards where children and families gathered.

Our next luncheon is Wednesday, May 20. Come and celebrate spring together!

Photo from the Melfort Journal: St Ascension Ukrainian Church, northeast of Melfort

🍴 Get Ready for the Next Luncheon

STS Moose Jaw Superannuated Teachers LUNCHEON
Wednesday, May 20, 2026

10:30 – 11:00 - Coffee Chat - circulate and connect with past colleagues
11:00 - Program: TBA
12:00 - Roast Beef Dinner- Catered by Charlottes
12:45 - Meeting and Elections for the 2026-27 Executive

Cost: $20.00 per STS member and spouse. $25.00 for non-members
Where: Masonic Temple Hall

Please RSVP to Rosalie by Saturday, May 17, 2026, @ 306-691-0696, email: stsmoosejaw@gmail.com, or click on the link in your latest STSMJ Newsletter. (If you haven't received your newsletter, please check your junk/spam mail or follow the directions on www.stsmoosejaw.com.)
Come and Enjoy!

🗳️ Executive Elections After the Luncheon

Moose Jaw Superannuated Teachers’ Executive Elections
Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Time: Following our luncheon

We invite all members to consider becoming more involved by putting their names forward for a position on the executive. Your participation helps keep our group active, connected, and strong.

Positions open for nomination
President:
Vice President:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
House:
Cards/Calls:
Archives:
Publicity:
Recreation:
Phoning:
Technical:
Members-at-Large:

If you're interested in standing for a position or would like to nominate someone, please contact a current executive member before the meeting or express your interest at the luncheon.

Photo of a hand putting a ballot in a box, all in silhouette. Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

📝 Provincial STS Annual General Meeting Coming Soon

Our Provincial STS AGM takes place in Saskatoon, May 12 -14.

Delegates representing our Moose Jaw Chapter are Sonja Susut, Elaine Parsons, Al Thiessen, Dianne Newman, Arlene Wuschke, Chris Turcotte, Marlene McBain, Dalelene Yelland, Gail Cyrenne, and Sunil Pandila. Both Sonja and Sunil are currently on the Prov. Exec and are running for positions on the 2026-2027 Provincial STS Executive.

The AGM is an important part of our governance – it’s where chapter Delegates make decisions that guide our future deliberations and actions as an organization. It’s where individuals are elected to serve on the Provincial Executive. It’s also where members can gain a fuller understanding of how our organization operates.

🏥 Did You Know? More Great Health Info from Sunil Pandila

STS Group Benefits Plan – Survivor Checklist

If a plan member passes away, the surviving spouse may be eligible to continue health coverage through the STS Group Benefits Plan. Use this checklist to help ensure nothing is missed during a difficult time.

✅ Within 60 Days of Death (Important Window)

☐ Confirm eligibility for the STS Group Benefits Plan
☐ Apply within 60 days to avoid medical evidence requirements
☐ Contact STS to request application forms and guidance
☐ Ensure current coverage details are understood (active vs. retired status)

✅ If the Deceased Was an Active Teacher

☐ Note the end date of coverage under the STF Members Health Plan
☐ Apply to STS within 60 days of that coverage ending (no medical evidence required)

✅ Membership Requirement

☐ Apply for STS membership (required to access the benefits plan)

⚠️ If You Miss the 60-Day Window

☐ You may still apply later
☐ Be prepared to provide medical evidence, which may affect eligibility

📌 Helpful Tips

Keep copies of all documents and correspondence
Ask STS about premiums, coverage details, and effective dates
Don’t delay—starting early avoids added stress and complications

Reminder: Acting within the 60-day window ensures the smoothest transition and protects access to coverage without medical review.

💻 Free Computer Basics Program!

Dalelene Yelland, Treasurer, STS Moose Jaw

I attended the free Computer Literacy program for Seniors last week and thought it was a great learning opportunity. I feel that this would be of interest to our STS members. Check it out!

Free Computer Literacy Program for Seniors!

Join us at the Moose Jaw Public Library on Tuesdays from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm. It is an in-person program designed to help community members aged 55+ build confidence with technology.

Poster for Saskatchewan Seniors Connect: Computer Basics with Nanan STEM Academy. Whether you're a computer beginner, or just want to learn how to use your computer to the fullest, this series will help you build the confidence you need!

Upcoming dates are the following:
May 5 in the Herb Taylor Room - Social Media
(More courses to continue)

Course is taught by:
Shaun Nanan, P.Tech., P.Eng.
Academic Director
Nanan STEM Academy Inc.
E-mail: shaun@NananAcademy.com
Cell: 306-684-0761

🛶 The Joy of Paddling with the Kayak & Canoe Club

Photo from the back of someone in a kayak on the water, surrounded by trees. Photo by Filip Mroz on Unsplash

Discover the joy of paddling with the Moose Jaw Canoe and Kayak Club, located in the heart of Wakamow Valley. Whether you're brand new to paddling or have years of experience, everyone is welcome to get out and enjoy the scenic Moose Jaw River by canoe or kayak.

We offer programs for all ages and skill levels—recreational or competitive, beginner or seasoned paddler. Our mission is simple: to share the experience and beauty of being on the water.

For a small membership fee, you’ll get:

- Access to canoes, kayaks, paddles, and life vests
- Convenient river access
- Membership options for individuals, couples, and families
- Seasonal orientation and safety guidance
- Invitations to group paddles and events through our private Facebook community

A line of people in canoes on a river. Photo by Razvan Chisu on Unsplash

Join a welcoming group of outdoor enthusiasts and explore one of Moose Jaw’s most beautiful natural spaces from the water.

For more information, visit our website or connect with us on Facebook Messenger.

Website: https://moosejawcanoekayak.wixsite.com/club
Facebook: Moose Jaw Canoe and Kayak Club

Have you visited our website? See resources, recipes, upcoming events and more! Come Visit Us! www.stsmoosejaw.com