I find it encouraging when I see how our community comes together for a special event like the Scotties Tournament of Hearts. The volunteer support and community involvement include individuals of all ages and all levels of organization right up to the provincial government.
I appreciate the dedicated efforts of the people that make this an exciting and successful event. There is a long list of sponsors, many who have taken on leadership roles to ensure things run smoothly. I especially want to thank over 400 volunteers who set aside time to make this a pleasant and enjoyable occasion for the teams, visitors and local residents.
Our local businesses are supporting the tournament in a big way. There is a tremendous show of cooperation from a variety of partners to make this successful and memorable. The Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Moose Jaw, the City of Moose Jaw and the Downtown Business Association worked together to promote The Scotties. The City of Moose Jaw is offering free City Transit rides for fans and volunteers; just show your event ticket or volunteer badge. Businesses have enthusiastically participated in the Scotties Window Mural contest, promoting the Scotties spirit all around town. Eight restaurants and lounges are acting as “houses” for visiting fans, representing different regions competing at the Scotties. This is a great opportunity to hang out at the restaurant that is the “house” of your favourite team.
I’m always pleased to welcome our Premier to Moose Jaw. Premier Scott Moe was here this past Friday and Saturday for the Opening Ceremonies, and to be a part of an event that showcases not only our city but also our province to the rest of Canada. I know he appreciated Moose Jaw’s hospitality and the great curling.
The management and staff of Mosaic Place deserve huge recognition and appreciation. Their work for the Scotties Tournament of Hearts started many months ago, and they will be wrapping up the final details for weeks after the last rock is in the house.
We’re now about halfway through the tournament. Spectators from across the country have been watching the best women’s curling in Canada. In spite of this week being a school break, 27 different schools and youth groups are attending. Primary Eye Care Centre provided tickets to senior homes around Moose Jaw to enable more seniors to attend.
Visitors and Moose Jaw residents are enjoying lots of other entertainment along with the actual curling games. The HeartStop Lounge has nightly entertainment, lasting well after the final shot of the evening games. There are theme days, like Sask Spirit Sunday, and Prairie Plaid Day.
All this effort adds a lot of spirit and enthusiasm in our city, and also provides a significant economic benefit for the entire region. We hope you take advantage of some of the many activities and watch some world class curling.
Welcome to all the teams, sponsors, media personnel, and fans who are visiting our city. I know that in true Moose Jaw fashion, you’ll find great prairie hospitality in our friendly City, and you’ll go home with great memories of top-notch competition, along with notorious fun and celebration.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
