Sarah Mills: Snowbirds' grounding is a chance for Liberal government to stand behind its words
We are told the Snowbirds will return. We are told that the plan is to get new planes quickly. Sarah Mills says now, the...
8:30 – The Snowbirds, as Canada has known them, are coming to an end. The federal government is calling this a modernization plan for the Snowbirds, but it also marks the end of an era as the iconic CT-114 Tutors prepare for their final seasons in the sky. With a new aircraft not expected until the early 2030s, this raises real questions about what this transition period means for Moose Jaw, and whether the promise of continuity matches the uncertainty in the timeline. To discuss all this, Evan speaks with James Murdock, Moose Jaw Mayor.
Listener Question: Is moving the Snowbirds to newer, propeller-driven aircraft the right call, or does it change what makes the team iconic?
9:00 – Yesterday, Canada’s defence minister David McGuinty announced that 2026 will be the final season for the Snowbirds’ CT-114 Tutor jets, with a transition to new aircraft expected in the early 2030s. He said the move preserves a proud Canadian tradition while investing billions in future pilot training, infrastructure, and long-term economic benefits for Moose Jaw and the Prairies. Donna Fritzke, Executive Director of Tourism Moose Jaw, joins Evan to share her perspective on what this means for the city and local tourism.
9:15 – The Moose Jaw Snowbirds are more than just a symbol; they are a rich part of Canadian history with a lasting legacy and impact. Dan Dempsey, Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) and former commanding officer, team leader with the Moose Jaw Snowbirds and part of the Snowbirds Alumni Association, joins the show to talk about his career and the important work he does to preserve Snowbird history.
LQ: What is your most fond memory of the Moose Jaw Snowbirds?
9:30 – Open phones – Evan goes to the phones to chat with listeners about what’s on their minds today. Call 1-877-332-8255.
10:00 – As wedding season kicks into high gear, more couples are tossing the giant seating charts, matching chair covers and stressful timelines in favour of something smaller, more personal — and sometimes even secret! Angela Hodel, owner of Imagine Events and Regina Pop-up Weddings, joins Evan to talk about the growing shift away from “traditional” weddings and why these ceremonies are becoming so popular.
LQ: What’s one wedding tradition you’d happily keep forever — and one you’d retire immediately?
10:30 – Experts are questioning whether the SaskParty’s claim that extending the lifespan of coal plants will actually be the best investment for the province, rather than moving towards gas plants and other renewables. Brett Dolter, a University of Regina economics professor, joins the show to share his thoughts and what extending the life of coal-fired power plants really means for the province and your power bills.
LQ: Do you think the province should explore energy alternatives?
11:00 – You’re quick & clever! And for some weird reason you’ve carried the right answer in your head for years. Or maybe you just trust Uncle Google. It’s time for Saskatchewan’s Smartest Radio Listener for Little Town Apparel — your chance for fame and acclaim and to prove just how smart you are. Not only do you get bragging rights, you’ll win prizes too! Call 1-877-332-8255 to play!
11:30 – The future of agriculture is in good hands thanks to the next generation of passionate youth, including Carson Green, recipient of the Agriculture Student Scholarship grand prize from Mossbank. He joins the show to chat about his ideas to get youth excited about agriculture and why he loves farming.
12:00 – Evan revisits his conversation with James Murdock, Moose Jaw Mayor.
