It was a lucky draw for Rosie’s on River Street, to be chosen as House Saskatchewan for the downtown businesses’ campaign at this year’s Scotties Tournament of Hearts.
Being located right next door to Mosaic Place has certainly been to its advantage, and the place has seen more than its fair share of curling fans already throughout the week — and plenty of that memorable Saskatchewan spirit.
“Being able to just participate in this, let alone get lucky enough to draw House Sask, is awesome,” said Zach Schute, part-owner of the local restaurant. “Anything that's going on, especially with a big event like this, we love to have our hand in it and play a part in it.”
Schute has seen plenty of Rider jerseys filling Rosie’s to the brim this week, alongside some curious souls looking to rub elbows with Saskatchewan fans and try out the local menu — like the Newfoundland and Labrador team, earlier this week.
“Green is the colour, right,” joked Schute. “We’ve seen a lot of Saskatchewan fans, a lot of people from across Canada. . . Just because we're House Sask doesn't mean we turn away other people.”
In true spirit, Rosie’s has windows decorated in the Scotties logo, green and white streamers, and Saskatchewan jerseys hanging from the ceiling — like a jacket blazoned with Penny Barker’s name, a notable Moose Jaw curler.
The Scotties is, understandably, a nice boom for the business community. Schute has seen a definite increase in traffic as well as some great notoriety.
“With our name getting out there, a lot of people are making it a priority to come by when they stop in Moose Jaw, which is awesome to see,” said Schute.
With Team Saskatchewan currently playing its way through the championship pool for a shot at the playoffs this weekend, House Saskatchewan and everyone at Rosie’s is certainly cheering them on with some classic Saskatchewan spirit.
“We always have the Scotties on all of our TVs and we make sure that the sound's on, to watch it here and get people out,” said Schute.
If Robyn Silvernagle continues to have success, Schute feels like Rosie’s might concoct come drink specials to celebrate and even host a watch party for the playoffs.
“Our goal would be to pack the place while the draw is actually going on,” said Schute. “Just cheering on Saskatchewan.”
