Elvis has left Kindergarten ... Excited kids as they bid farewell to Kindergarten and now start their grade-school lives, Thursday, June 26. St. Gabriel School celebrated the achievement - none harder than this young grad as he dances his way out of Kindergarten and into Grade 1. Congratulations to all the grads! (Independent Photo by
Kevin Brautigam)
It was a landmark day as BCS celebrated graduation, Friday. Words of advice from Guest Speakers, Will and Kim Johnson (left pic), Principal Sean Lockwood and VicePrincipal Natalie Chupik (below left), Sun West rep Cathy Laventure (below middle) and Mayor James Rickwood (below). Principal Lockwood presents Tanille Larochelle with the Valedictorian plaque (above). No more can they call themselves students, but learning will be a life-long activity. Missing from side photos: Narie Mae Bebillo, Braxton Savostianik.
(Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
Kori Owens-Nahorney Nola Derks
Ayden Owens-Nahorney Emily Hodgson
Zayra Bustamante Lopez Amelia Smith
Eva Neufeldt Kendra Sunderland
Jean Boechler Tanille Larochelle
Leelila Erixon Jailynn Irwin
Callie Poletz Kate Buxton
Haley Mantyka Ava Hoffman
Taylor Singer Emma Genis
Atlas Knorr Alara Ormiston
Bhawyh Garg Jaren Mae Son
Lucas Dehr Owen Mclay
Rei James Dalisay Andres Fullentes
Dawson Ekman Kieran Massie
Carson Mair Josh Box
Kyler Kappel Jonathan Trotchie
Vlademir Villanueva Kyson Egert
Govt’s of Canada and Sask. provide drought support with
Friday, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture Daryl Harrison announced the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) is implementing measures to offer support to producers facing this year’s challenging dry conditions.
SCIC is implementing the double low yield appraisal process, encouraging acres of lowyielding eligible crops to be diverted to make additional feed available to graze, bale or silage.
“I’ve spoken with livestock and crop producers in Saskatchewan who are worried about the impact that dry conditions could have this year,” MacDonald said. “Changing the yield threshold will give them some breathing room, so they can make the best decisions for their operations.”
“In multiple areas throughout the province,
our livestock producers are facing challenges from this year’s dry conditions,” Harrison said. “There is a need to quickly adapt to best support producers’ timely, on-farm decisions. In 2021 and 2023, this same initiative was successfully implemented, resulting in over half a million acres of additional low yield crop redirected to feed. Once again, livestock producers are encouraged to work directly with neighbouring crop producers to access additional feed.”
When crops are severely damaged and the appraised yield falls below an established threshold level, the yield is reduced to zero for the Crop Insurance claim. SCIC is doubling the low yield appraisal threshold values, allowing customers to salvage their eligible crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage.
Prior to compensation, all qualifying acres for double low yield
appraisals must be diverted to livestock feed. They cannot be left to harvest. Prior to putting damaged crops to an approved alternate use, producers should contact their local SCIC office.
“This announcement is welcome news for our livestock producers,” SARM President Bill Huber said. “As in past years, it will help address feed shortages so many ranchers are experiencing. Timely support like this is critical to ensuring the sustainability of the sector in this province.”
“Many cattle producers throughout the province are facing potential feed shortages,” Saskatchewan Cattle Association Chair Chad Ross said. “The recent rains may help with some of the later seeded crops and possible pasture rebound in some areas. Unfortunately, the hay crop was already burnt off in several places. Writing off some crops through doubling the low yield threshold will provide cattle
the doubled low yield appraisal
producers an option for feeding their animals they didn’t previously have. The SCA thanks Ministers Harrison and MacDonald, along with the governments for moving quickly on this.”
AgriStability can provide support to producers for production losses and increased expenses resulting from dry conditions. In most cases, the additional expense a producer incurs to acquire additional feed for their livestock is an eligible expense through the AgriStability Program. The deadline for producers to enrol in the existing AgriStability program for the 2025 program year is extended to July 31, 2025. The AgriStability Program includes an option to access timely support through an Interim Benefit, which gives producers the option of receiving funds prior to the completion of the fiscal period in the program year. This can help support losses and cover costs.
Council minute highlights
The regular meeting of Biggar Town Council was held May 20 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Attending the meeting were Mayor Jim Rickwood, Councillors Alan Boyle, Dakota Ekman, Nicole Hoppe, Kevin McNicholls, Edward Young, and Ivan Young.
Council resolved that this meeting be recessed at 7:30 p.m. for the purpose of conducting a public hearing to hear any person or group that wishes to comment on the proposed Bylaw No. 25-878, being a bylaw of the Town of Biggar to amend the current Zoning Bylaw to rezone Future Urban Development to Residential Single Dwelling District R1 to accommodate the Farm
in The Dell development project. As no verbal or written comments were received Mayor Rickwood closed the public hearing and reconvened the regular council meeting at 7:32 p.m. Council read the Bylaw No. 25-878 three times and adopted it.
Council resolved that the following reports from Administration and Council Committees be accepted as presented: Committee Meeting Minutes May 13, 2025. Public Works Manager’s Report. Deputy Administrative Officer’s Report. Chief Administrative Officer’s Report.
Council resolved that the following financial reports for April 2025 be accepted as presented: Bank
Reconciliation April 2025. Statement of Financial Activities April 2025.
Council resolved that the General Accounts Paid in the amount of $337,579.66 including payroll deposits and online payments totalling $252,810.43, and the list of accounts for approval in the amount of $156,178.50, be approved as submitted.
Council resolved that the following correspondence be accepted and filed: RCMP: Report May 5, 2025. RCMP: Report May 12, 2025. SHA: Meeting Minutes March 10, 2025. SHA: Meeting Minutes May 12, 2025. Biggar Fire Department: Payroll April 2025. RAK Club: Colour Run. West Central: Meeting Date Change and Agenda. SWRC: Package
for AGM for 2024. Leinenweber Letter May 14, 2025. Prairie Branches Letter of Thanks. Biggar Music Festival Letter of Thanks.
Council resolved that the multi-use facility public report be approved as presented and released to constituents.
Council resolved that the request letter from Biggar Tae Kwon Do Club regarding sponsorship for their upcoming tournament season be approved for a total onetime donation of $1,500. Council resolved that the Town approve a 100 per cent exemption on the municipal portion of the 2025 property taxes for the Biggar Majestic Theatre.
• Meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m.
SCIC recognizes the most pressing concern for livestock producers is reduced hay and pasture production. Pasture acres are insured for the impact of dry conditions through the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program.
Starting July 15, 2025, eligible producers will
begin to receive claim payments, providing timely financial relief to help offset the impact of below average rainfall. By August 15, 2025, remaining claims are automatically calculated based strictly upon weather station data.
Thank you, Mr. G! ... With St. Gabriel School Kindergarten Graduation this past Thursday, June 26, an end of an era happened with the retirement of Principal Rick Garchinski. Here, one of the Kindergarten graduates gives Mr. G a hug and a gift bag - a small thank you for the many, many years of serving the St. Gabriel School community. He’ll still be around, subbing and enjoying some much needed time off! Congratulations, Rick! (Independent
by Sgt. Dereck Crozier, Biggar Detachment Happy Canada Day! Hope everyone is enjoying their day, have a safe ride planned and the weather is cooperating wherever you may be.
This past week 38 occurrences were reported to the Biggar Detachment.
An 18-year-old driving a grey 2017 Hyundai Tucson received a $921 fine for operating at 161 km/h on Highway 14. A 46-year-old from Kindersley received a three-day licence suspension for operating under the influence of marihuana, this also resulted in her grey Chrysler 300 being impounded from Highway 4 north. A 64-year-old from Unity left the Esso in her 2024 Grey F-150 without paying for her gas - members were able to track her down and
rectify the situation.
A 36-year-old male was causing concern to motorists on Highway 4 north. With some concerning actions and lying down on the side of the highway, the individual was checked by police and EMS, and after a brief uncooperative visit with hospital staff, he was provided a courtesy ride to Red Pheasant to continue his journey.
An old combine sitting on a property in the RM of Biggar was reported to have been used for target practice and had some parts robbed off it. It is unknown the time frame when this activity would have taken place.
A 43-year-old male from Saskatoon and a 48-year-old male from Dundurn were located attempting to steal railway ties from CP with their white 2019 F-150 and trailer. CP police asked for assistance in educating these males on their trespassing. Take care out there!
Playing on a Green Card
Songs from the street ... Biggar’s Main Street Gazebo was graced with the tunes of local student musicians, June 24. Local teachers set their students up for a street concert, showing off the talents learned over the past year. With summer now in full swing, these talented musicians set the tone for what we all can hope is a wonderful summer! (Independent Photo by Trudy Buxton)
Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
High
Canadian NHL teams in race for top players
by Lee Harding, Frontier Centre for Public Policy NHL commissioner
Gary Bettman badly underestimates how much higher income taxes in Canada put Canadian teams at a serious competitive disadvantage by reducing players’ take-home pay and limiting their ability to attract top talent. The NHL salary cap is a league-wide spending limit that restricts how much each team can spend on player salaries each season. It’s intended to promote parity but doesn’t account for geographic differences in taxation. As a result, players on Canadian teams effectively take home less money for the same salary as their American counterparts, putting those teams at a major disadvantage when competing for elite talent.
In a recent TNT broadcast, Bettman dismissed the idea that teams might adjust the salary cap to offset income tax differences, calling it “a ridiculous issue” and saying taxes
by Pat Murphy, Troy
Media
As we ease into serious summer, a column about something other than politics seems in order. So let’s give an appreciative nod to two popular culture figures who passed away over the last month - the English novelist Frederick Forsyth and the American pop/rock musician Brian Wilson.
Forsyth, who died on June 9 at the age of 86, was a reporter for Reuters in Paris and East Germany before going to work for the BBC in Nigeria. And when he found himself broke and unemployed in his early 30s, he set out to write a novel with the hope of clearing his debts.
Reputedly written in a mere five weeks, The Day of the Jackal drew on his earlier journalism stint in Paris and took its inspiration from the failed 1962 assassination attempt on then-French president Charles de Gaulle. But Forsyth didn’t base his
were only “a little bit of a factor.” Pointing to high state taxes in California and New York, he asked, “What are we going to do? Subsidize those teams?”
But what Bettman either ignored or failed to fully grasp is that every Canadian NHL player faces significantly higher income taxes than any of their U.S. counterparts. According to the Fraser Institute, a Canadian public policy think-tank focused on economic performance and taxation, Ontario’s top marginal tax rate is 53.5 per cent, and even Alberta’s is 47 per cent. Compare that to the highest U.S. state rate among NHL locations: Minnesota at 41.85 per cent, California at 41.3, and New York at 38.85. Several states, including Florida, Texas, Nevada and Tennessee, impose no state income tax at all.
This tax gap translates into huge differences in players’ actual takehome pay, the money that lands in their bank accounts. And because NHL salaries are paid in U.S. dollars, Canadian-
story on the details of the actual event. Instead, his imagination took over. He conjured up an alternative scenario, wondering what might have happened if a professional assassin had been hired for the job. And he approached his research with the thoroughness of the investigative reporter he’d once been, validating the plot’s plausibility by appropriating the identity of a dead child in order to (illegally) procure a false passport.
Forsyth’s manuscript was rejected by four different U.K. publishers, none of whom could see the viability of a novel wherede Gaulle never having been assassinated - the reader knew the denouement in advance. Eventually, though, a publisher agreed to a modest 1971 print run and favourable word-ofmouth quickly built a U.K. audience. In the U.S., two laudatory pieces in The New York Times launched it to major success.
based players also lose out when converting their earnings to spend in Canada.
With a 2024–25 NHL salary cap of US$88 million, Toronto Maple Leafs players collectively earn $5.7 million less after taxes than Edmonton Oilers players, and a staggering $18.9 million less than players on the tax-free Florida Panthers. That difference alone could be enough to sign a star player and dramatically shift competitive balance.
This tax burden has real-world consequences. Fans frustrated by two decades of playoff disappointment in Toronto should look less to coaches and management and more to Canada’s punishing tax system, which either drives talent south of the border or limits how much Canadian teams can pay. Most elite players base their decisions not just on prestige or geography but on after-tax income, what they actually keep. Some might argue that lifestyle, legacy or market exposure also matter, but when millions of dollars
Forsyth’s successor novels were built on the same model. Take real-life situations, do the investigative work necessary to build convincing background and then spin a compelling yarn. While some called his prose “graceless,” his huge strength was in his plotting. With his detailed research and vivid imagination, he could create a gripping narrative. My late father wasn’t much into thrillers, but he found The Day of the Jackal a terrific read.
Although Forsyth kept writing well into the 21st century, his peak popularity was in the 1970s. In addition to the Jackal, titles like The Odessa File and The Dogs of War were hugely popular, so much so that they were also adapted into popular movies.
Whatever the critics thought, Frederick Forsyth was indeed a master storyteller.
Brian Wilson died on June 11, just nine days short of his 83rd birthday.
are on the line, takehome pay tends to win out. Lower taxes are a proven magnet for highpriced talent, leading to better results and stronger teams.
University of Calgary economist Trevor Tombe calls this the “great divergence,” referring to the growing gap between the U.S. and Canadian economies. He points out that U.S. GDP per capita outpaces Canada’s by 43 per cent, and the gap is widening. This economic advantage means U.S. teams operate in wealthier markets with
Born in California, he was a founding member of the Beach Boys and also their main creative force, writing or co-writing most of their hits and producing their records.
The band’s 1962-63 material revolved around images of surf boards, ocean waves and sandy beaches, such as Surfin’ Safari and Surfin’ USA. It was catchy, rhythmic and just plain fun. Harmonies were also important, more so than in typical pop records of the time.
When the Beatles took North America by storm in 1964, Wilson felt the need to up his game, part of which involved becoming more adventurous. Harmonies became more complex, vocals became intricately layered and the role of the studio shifted. Rather than just being a place to record, it became another instrument. In effect, Wilson was creating sounds that didn’t lend themselves to being fully replicated on the concert
INDEPENDENT
more financial flexibility, enabling them to offer players better aftertax compensation and attract top talent more easily than Canadian teams can. Canadian teams also face more intense media and fan pressure in smaller markets, adding to their challenges.
The NHL’s prolonged Stanley Cup drought for Canadian teams since 1993 isn’t just bad luck. Statistically, the odds of no Canadian team winning the Cup in over 30 years are about one in 781. Tax policy plays
stage.
Various musical influences were brought to bear: George Gershwin, the Four Freshmen, Burt Bacharach and, most importantly, a desire to emulate the sonic effects of rock producer Phil Spector’s famous Wall of Sound. It all came together with 1966’s Pet Sounds, reputedly one of the most expensive pop albums up to that point in time. Continuous studio experimenting and refining burned through serious money.
The album initially got a lukewarm commercial reception, underperforming many of the band’s earlier releases. However, it ultimately became regarded as one of those things that elevated pop/rock to an art form.
The music was becoming intellectualized. Simplicity was out and complexity was in. Introspection trumped fun. And rather than just being a talented guy who made successful records,
a major role in this unlikely streak. In the end, don’t blame Bettman or the NHL. Blame the Canadian governments that keep imposing high taxes that punish success, stifle economic growth and keep Canadian teams from competing on a level playing field. Unless tax policy changes, or at least adjusts to reflect the realities of crossborder competition, Canadian hockey fans should expect more frustration and fewer championships.
Wilson was an auteur. But he was also a deeply troubled man, prone to mental illness accentuated by prolific drug use. Consequently, he was generally absent from the band’s tours after 1964. The Beach Boys’ popularity faded in the second half of the 1960s, only to be revived in 1974 with Endless Summer, a compilation of the most popular material from their early years. And it wasn’t the intellectual, introspective stuff that drew huge crowds again, but rather the simpler tributes to the glories of surf, cars and girls. As one song put it, “And she’ll have fun, fun, fun ’til her daddy takes the T-bird away.” In their own distinct ways, Forsyth and Wilson understood the power of craft and story - one with words, the other with sound. Both made their mark by showing that serious artistry and popular appeal aren’t mutually exclusive.
taxes hobble
Bob Mason Notable Notes
They say that “variety” is the spice of life. If that is true, there must be a lot of spicy construction types.
According to him, Y.T. (Yours Truly) has gone quite a few places and done quite a few things. But I think for variety, none of of these places and things compares to his time as a construction worker!
Y.T. looked up some of them in the old Life and Times (L&T), some that he though should be marked down here and, because there were actually so many, he’d best forget his usual philosophic bit and get right down to it!
It will take some time to forget Robertson Construction, an outfit I worked for, because after sitting on my tractor all day trying to make a living farming, I didn’t realize how many different things a construction worker did!
Maybe if I had hired on as strictly a labourer (I though I had!) it might have been different. But on looking back on it now they sure used Y.T. as something else!
As a driver: Oh, oh ... maybe I’ll lose my drivers licence when they read these!
On a road north of Outlook we were driving the crew to work in an old van when the main steering (tie rod) fell off and we zigged and zagged all over the road before we got stopped ... sorry! No one was hurt!
On another, late one night the foreman says we’ve got to go down south and fix a leak. Two young fellows and I are roaring down one the flat dike roads when we came to a curve. Like I said, the dike road was flat and the canal had just been rip-rapped with gravel. I guess some of the stones still on the road rolled us right into the canal. Y.T. “put her to the floor” and with a full head of steam, we zoomed back up onto the road again. The two young fellows had been telling me how to drive - I was quite old and therefore dumb, you see - but as we drove on toward the job, I never heard another word! I laugh when I think of this next one!
We were driving an old school bus and were coming back from dinner in Edmonton when all of a sudden a wheel careened past us! It took a moment before we realized it was our own - we had duals on the back! We all piled out and finally got back to camp. The bus is still there, I guess! One time the fan-belt broke and I phoned the boss. “Don’t get a new one,” he advised, “just drive like heck ‘til you get here and it’ll stay cool!” I did. The headwind turned the fan that drove the pump that circulated ... well, you know what I mean!
As a cook: You’ll need a paper bag after you read this!
Looking back
After driving a hundred miles one Monday morning, Y.T. got to camp at 5 a.m. and the cook hadn’t arrived yet. As the crew was waiting for grub, guess what? I’ve fried lots of bacon at home, but 200 slices?! This happened more than once, and at last count, very few of us have suffered that much!
As a fencer: Being an old farmer, they often gave me a fencing crew. Y.T. always built the fences to keep animals in or out. Sorry again! Apparently a lot of highway fence is only to be seen!
As an operator: At Outlook building canals, one of my jobs was to drive a D6 with a bucket. One of the things Y.T. had to do was move clay from one side of a canal to the other. This meant loading the bucket and backing into the dry canal, turning and going forward up the far slope. I went in for a drink of water one time and a young guy climbed up on the machine, loaded the bucket and drove headfirst into the canal.
Of course, with the loaded bucket on front, the whole machine dived forward and stood on end.
Don’t ask me how come it went out of gear, I don’t know, but it ended up nose-down in the canal with the young fellow holding on for dear life!
As a dumb foreman: At the time all construction crews had to be 10 per cent native. Like everybody, some were good and some not so good. I got what was known as a “back-fill” crew.
One of the bosses asked, “How is your crew?”
“Okay,” I says, “everybody works well
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF BIGGAR NO.347 PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Biggar No. 347 intends to adopt a bylaw under the Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 1-2010 known as the Zoning Official Community Plan
INTENT
The proposed bylaw amendment will increase the size of a livestock operation from 100 animal units or more to 300 animal units or more in order to be considered an intensive livestock operation.
REASON
The reason for the amendments is to allow livestock operations between 100 animal units and 299 animal units to be established without requiring approval as an intensive livestock operation which requires Council’s approval as a discretionary use under the provisions of the Zoning Bylaw.
PUBLIC INSPECTION
Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Municipal Office, located at 201 2nd Avenue West, in the Town of Biggar, between the hours of 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Copies of the proposed bylaw are available at the Municipal Office at a cost of $5.00.
PUBLIC HEARING
Council will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Municipal Office Council Chambers 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 office before the hearing.
Issued at the RM of Biggar this 26th day of June, 2025
Sandi Silvernagle, Administrator
except one guy, and he never does anything!”
“Oh!” says the boss with a knowing nod. “George Munroe. Never ask George to do anything!”(George came from John Smith Reserve - the Muskoday First Nation)
But like a darn fool I did ask George one day and he showed me the excuse duty card he had been given because he had been wounded so badly on D-Day! He played a darn good game of crib, though!
As a cleaner-upper: On one construction job we had a fine looking young female cook who prepared our meals and then sat by herself
reading a book. When the snow flew the boss and Y.T. were cleaning up before we shut down for winter and found her book behind the stove“The Happy Hooker”!
As a heater inspector: Like I say, it was getting mighty cold when one of the operators says to me, “Try this stuff! It’ll warm you up in no time!” I still think he hit me on the head with a two-by-four!
Gambler: I can see a fellow shooting craps for money but one time the crew was placing bets that one of the machines - and its driver - wouldn’t make it to Saskatoon.
“He’s there!”: I wondered about this one for a while. The old L&T
had an entry marked, “He’s there!” and for a moment, wondered... We had a fellow on the crew who had a very distinguished laugh, and one evening I phoned the Highwayman Motel in Edmonton.
“Is Jerry in the bar there?” I asked.
“There’s three hundred people in the bar,” says the voice.
So I told them about Jerry’s laugh and they listened. A moment later a voice came on the line.
“He’s here!” it claimed. Whoops ... out of paper again! Well at least we didn’t run out of memories!
4 things you need to know about
by News Canada
Today, youth face dangers from more places than ever before.
Every new technology that helps them communicate or find community can also be abused to harass, intimidate and bully. Cyberbullying is a difficult subject to talk about, but silence only creates more opportunity for the danger to grow. Making online spaces safer starts with educating ourselves on just what youth are facing.
Here are four things you might not have known about cyberbullying: It’s more common than you think. Cyberbullying can take as many forms as there are ways of communicating online. Targets may experience private harassment like threatening or demeaning e-mails or text messages; the cyberbullying may also be public, like embarrassing
cyberbullying
photos being released online, or a website or social media page built to make fun of the target. Thirty-one per cent of Canadian youth report having been cyberbullied, but the real figure may be even higher. It leaves a lasting impact. Unlike in-person forms of intimidation and harassment, cyberbullying can follow a target everywhere they go, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The effects it has on someone experiencing it vary, but can include anxiety, hopelessness, shame, impacted school performance and even self-harm. It can cross borders. While most cyberbullies and their targets know each other, the online nature of the harassment means that it can come from anywhere. It also means that efforts to address cyberbullying in one region can potentially
have a global impact. Spreading awareness is key. It empowers targets and those around them to take action which has been found to significantly cut how often it happens. A Canadian communications agency recently found success with a campaign that raised awareness around cyberbullying in Tunisia. The campaign, “Don’t Feed the Monster,” aimed to equip teenaged girls and boys with tools to resist and prevent cyberbullying, while raising awareness among, teachers and parents about the dangers waiting for youth online. You can learn more about this effort to fight back against cyberbullying, as well as hear other stories of Canadian changemakers making a global impact in a new podcast at tap-pat.ca/canadianchangemakers
RURAL MUNICIPALITY OF BIGGAR NO.347
PUBLIC NOTICE
Public notice is hereby given that the Council of the Rural Municipality of Biggar No. 347 intends to adopt a bylaw under the Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 1-2010 known as the Zoning Bylaw
INTENT
The proposed bylaw amendment will amend the definition of an intensive livestock operation from 100 animal units or more to 300 animal units or more.
REASON
The reason for the amendments is to allow livestock operations between 100 animal units and 299 animal units to be established without requiring approval as an intensive livestock operation which requires Council’s approval as a discretionary use under the provisions of the Zoning Bylaw.
PUBLIC INSPECTION
Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Municipal Office, located at 201 2nd Avenue West, in the Town of Biggar, between the hours of 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Copies of the proposed bylaw are available at the Municipal Office at a cost of $5.00.
PUBLIC HEARING
Council will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Municipal Office Council Chambers 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 office before the hearing.
Issued at the RM of Biggar this 26th day of June, 2025
Sandi Silvernagle, Administrator
I have fallen in love this year - with peonies - all over again!
It is rather amazing that each year I seem to have a new love in the garden. Sometimes it is an old love that again rises to the top and sometimes it is a completely new love!
I have for some time been buying peonies from my favourite florist and have been enjoying them in vases in my house as well as gifting them to some of my favourite people for their homes. There is
When I was very young, my parents took me aside one evening to make a special request.
An elderly gentleman in our neighbourhood, whom my parents liked and trusted, had recently lost his spouse and was grieving deeply. With no children of his own, he was completely alone, with no one to help him through his sorrow.
nothing quite like a peony in full bloom as their big fluffy flowers and heavenly scent are truly floral royalty.
There are a few different types of peonies, but this column will focus on the herbaceous peonies as those are the ones that have stolen my heart once again.
Peonies are a gardener’s dream that lives longer than most humans! Over the years I have seen them happily growing in farmsteads that have not housed humans for many years. They are a perennial that lives for a long time, but does not like being moved.
Herbaceous peonies die back to the ground in winter and in the spring regrow once again. Their season of bloom is from late spring to early summer - depending on your
Peonies - Part I
location and what type of peony you are growing. If you really like peonies and have the space there are early, midseason and late-blooming kinds of peonies that traditionally were white, blush, pink and red. Modern breeding has expanded our choices to include creamy white, coral, purple/lavender and even some variegated, multicoloured types.
Single bloom types have a single row of broad petals surrounding a cluster of stamens and seed-bearing carpels. The quite striking and elegant. ‘Athena’ has single creamy-white cup-shaped petals with a delicate raspberry flare at the base of each petal. ‘Krinkled White’ has large crinkled or wavy petals surrounding the golden yellow heart of stamens. Japanese peony types
are similar to the signal bloom types of peonies but have a prominent centre of modified stamens (staminodes) that have become thickened and don’t produce viable pollen. They have either a single or double row of large, flat outer petals. A couple of stunning cultivars are ‘Sword Dance’ with rose-red petals with a centre of same coloured rippled staminodes etched in gold. ‘Nippon Beauty’ has deep red petals with bright red staminodes edged with gold. Semi-double peonies have several rows of petals with visible pollenbearing stamens. Their stems are generally more sturdy so do not require staking which is a big bonus! Some of my favourites include: ‘Coral Charm’ with an unique coral colour; ‘Buckeye
Belle’ with striking deep red blooms with golden stamens; or ‘Garden Treasure’ with large golden yellow petals flushed with scarlet at their heart. Bomb peonies have a single row of broad outer petals that form a skirt around the centre petals. The narrow inner petals that are surrounded by the broad outer petals are actually modified stamens and carpels, forming full, luxurious and impactful blooms. Some cultivars to try include: ‘Red Charm’ with true red petals; ‘Raspberry Sundae’ with elegant ivory coloured ruffles blushed with a delicious raspberry-pink shade and ‘Fire Bomb’ which is fire-engine red. Double peonies have all stamens and carpels transformed into petals creating lush, fully rounded blooms. These flowers
The Lonely Old Man
Feeling compassion for his loss, my parents asked me to spend a Friday evening with him - to keep him company and perhaps talk to him for a while. Although my parents knew him well, I hardly knew him at all and wasn’t enthusiastic about the visit. But this was one of those special requests that a child couldn’t really refuse, even though I had no idea what to say to someone I barely knew.
When the arranged Friday evening arrived, my dad dropped me off at the gentleman’s house and waited until I entered after knocking on the door. The gentleman was happy to see me and invited me in. He knew I liked the newspaper comics and had
saved a bunch on the living room coffee table for me to read. I sat in the living room with a soft drink and read the comics, which took all of about fifteen minutes. Then we started to talk. It was awkward at first, as neither of us knew each other well. He asked me about my interests, and I answered, but I didn’t know what to ask him in return. As a kid, I had no idea what to say to an older gentleman like him. There were many awkward silences that evening as we tried to relate to each other. Despite the awkwardness, I think the gentleman was simply glad to have company for the evening, even if it was just a little kid who didn’t know what to say to him. I didn’t
think much about that evening after I went home, even when I later heard that the gentleman had passed away. As a young child, there was still much about life that I didn’t yet understand. Decades later, while watching television, something triggered the memory of that visit. Reflecting on it now as an adult, I finally understand what my parents were trying to do. Growing up in a busy and happy home surrounded by loved ones, I never truly grasped why my parents wanted me to visit him. But now that I am much older, I understand completely. Loneliness can be insidious, especially for an older person who has
lost their spouse and faces the remainder of their life alone. After a lifetime of hard work and building a legacy with their partner, no one deserves to be alone in their golden years. My parents were trying to ease his loneliness, if only for one evening. In hindsight, I hope I helped, even just a little.
For those who find themselves alone in their later years, be sociable if you can. People need people. Get out, join activities, play cards with friends, call loved ones whenever possible, and keep the lines of communication open with family and friends.
For adults in their prime, remember the time your parents spent with you as a child - and try
are heavy and large and often can be seen swooping down to the ground when they open. ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is a famous later blooming fully double soft pink peony with later season bloom. ‘Kansas’ is another popular choice with large, fuchsiared double blooms that is lovely as a cut flower. Watch next week for more on peonies. Patricia Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist with Orchid Horticulture. Find us at orchidhort.com; by e-mail at growyourfuture@gmail.com; on facebook @orchidhort and on instagram at #orchidhort Tune into GROW Live on our Facebook page facebook.com/orchidhort or check out the Youtube channel GROW youtube. com/channel/UCzkiUpkvyv2e2HCQlFl0JyQ?
to reciprocate now that they are aging. You were vulnerable then, and they are vulnerable now. It’s time to return the favour. Family is everything, and the most important gift you can give your loved ones is your time. If possible, put down your phone and visit your parents in the seniors’ home regularly. Drop in on other family members whenever you can. Someday, you will be in the same situation as your elderly parents. It’s never too soon to care about the people who cared about you. After all, the only way to fight the ongoing war on loneliness and isolation among today’s seniors is by being as sociable as possible.
Why more couples should have the money talk
by News Canada
Would you break up with your partner if you found out they had a secret bank account? What about if they had debt they were hiding from you? What if they were just cheap?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, you’re not alone. According to a 2025 TD survey, the way one partner manages their finances can have a major impact on how the other person views the relationship:
Money can make or break a relationship. 71 per cent of Canadians polled would consider breaking up with their
partner if they discovered that they were being dishonest about their finances, and a majority would contemplate calling it quits if their other half never offered to pay for anything.
Money can also matter right from the start of a relationship, especially for Gen Z Canadians, who report that their partner’s net worth is important to them when first getting together. That net worth itself can be a deal-breaker from the get-go, with some young Canadians admitting that they likely wouldn’t date someone who earns less
money than them.
Talking about money is hard, but worth it. Many people have financial deal-breakers when it comes to relationships, which is why talking about them is so important. Money might not be the most romantic topic, but it can be a crucial one.
Because circumstances can change, having regular conversations with your partner about your saving, investing, and retirement goals can be very important.
Most Canadians agree that financial transparency and responsibility are crucial
factors in a relationship, and that money conversations should ideally happen between partners at least once a month.
But even though the same survey found that seven out of 10 Canadians surveyed value financial transparency in their relationships, only 41 per cent of couples had the “money talk” with their partner after they had moved in together, or around the time they got married or became common-law.
The best time to start the conversation about finances is now. Starting
talks early on can help couples get on the same page. Conversations about how your partner likes to save, invest, or spend will allow you to better understand their habits and whether they align with yours.
Couples don’t have to navigate financial conversations alone. Professionals, can help couples understand where the other is coming from and reach something that works for both of them.
Keith Schell Remember When
Patricia Hanbidge Orchid Horiculture
Tariff Trump degrading world trust in USA
interests would seem best served participating with other countries on a level above hostility.
Calvin Daniels Agriculture
by Calvin Daniels
Trying to understand what United States president Donald Trump is trying to accomplish is beyond this scribe.
Trump’s plans seem to come to be understood only by him, with increasing evidence even he has no idea as he changes direction more often than weather changes on the Canadian Prairies.
However, all the wishywashy blustering from Trump does leave one wondering how any country can think it can thrive in isolation these days?
Certainly, the United States has also been something of a navelgazing nation, interested in influencing other nations either financially, or militarily only if it benefits their own interests, but those
Currently the outrageous tariffs and near daily rants against anyone who happens to suggest Trump is in error on any level, does little in terms of being a positive world influence.
While perhaps years past being widely likely internationally, the United States has at least been generally respected, even if that has been begrudgingly for some.
Under Trump that respect has slipped away, and even if the Republicans lose the next election it is likely to take years to regain the standing the country once had internationally.
In the mean time the business of tradeagriculture production included - will continue.
However, the paths of trade are changing.
Trump’s blustering is creating new trade alliances, partnerships, and deals, which are not including the U.S. How that is good news for American farm producers, or industry is general is baffling. Population growth is not in North America. There are however
growing populations in China, India, across Africa and other nations, and that means growing demand for food and all manner of other things, from clothes to entertainment. It would therefore seem highly logical to embrace trade with those countries to ensure access to those markets.
Trump seems completely unconcerned with whether the U.S. sells anything beyond its borders.
Certainly in Canada where we can produce far in excess of what we consume across a vast range of farm products, we embrace the need to promote trade.
While ‘free trade’ by the broadest definition may always be a mirage, there will be roadblocks and restrictions to trade regardless of how much we might covet that free flow, but we still need to work diligently to create access as best we can.
There is a world out there needing food and other products, and it is much bigger than the U.S. It is that larger world Canada needs to focus on as Trump continues his unfathomable trade rhetoric.
Biggar U13 crowned Champs! ... Biggar U13 ball players are sporting a new title: Champions! The area athletes rolled to an Eagle Creek League Gold Division Championship, recently. Congratulations! (Submitted Photo)
Kim Gartner
The Saskatchewan Traveller . . . The Alberta Ride
by Trudy and Dale Buxton
This Alberta ride has been very good. Other than some strong winds in some places, the rain has held off allowing us to venture into some small communities to have a look around.
After going through Rosemary we make a left
hand turn on Highway 36 and head north on the Veterans Memorial Highway, so called to honour veterans in the past wars.
There is not much along this highway except some nice scenery and the odd animal that crosses your path. However, on this day we happened upon what looked like someone’s ranch, but this ranch was all done up into a mega barrel racing facility where people from all over Alberta and Saskatchewan come and test out their horses in a friendly barrel racing competition.
This facility is called the Big Country Riding and Roping Club and by the looks of it there is a number of smiling cowboys and cowgirls that really enjoy their sport.
We continue up Highway 9 where we turn left and into the Town of Hanna.
Hanna is a town of roughly 2,400 people, which was first settled in 1912 and before there was a council it was simply referred to as the Board of Trade.
The name Hanna comes from a fellow named David Hanna who was the president of the Canadian National Railway at the time. The name Hanna replaced the original name of Copeville, named after one of the first settlers George Cope. Hanna is surrounded by Special Area Number 2, the administration office for the Special Areas is located in Hanna.
The Special Areas were created in the late 1930’s as a result of severe drought brought on in the 1930’s. These Special Areas are managed by representatives of the government to provide assistance to local farms and ranches along with maintaining roads,
is, of course, about Chad growing up in Hanna. Another famous person from Hanna is hockey icon, Lanny McDonald. One other interestingbut not so nice residentwas Robert Cook, a mass murderer who killed his family. Cook was the last person executed in Alberta.
Hanna is also the home of Canada’s largest Canada Goose and the Hanna Pioneer Museum and Village where there is a full block dedicated to the history of the railroad and the surrounding area of the region. Hanna was one of those communities that we will have to visit again. Stay tuned as we continue our trip into Alberta.
Big Country Riding and Roping Club in Alberta recreational areas and managing public lands for agriculture and industry. This board is a separate board from the RM’s in the regions. The main industries of Hanna are agriculture, oil production, power generation, tourism and coal mining. Hanna is home to some interesting people, one of the most famous names to come out of Hanna is the band Nicklebackbrothers Chad and Mike Kroeger, along with cousin, Brandon Kroeger, and Ryan Peake formed the band in 1995, later joined by Daniel Adair in 2005, and has many hits singles to their names. One of their first hits, ‘Photograph’ had the video shot entirely in Hanna, and the story
Welcome to Hanna, Alberta
Biggar Central School 2000 Elementary Award Winners
With the end of another school year, Biggar Central School recognized their Grade 4-6 award winners for the 2024/25 school year. Merit Awards (picutred above) were as follows:
Art - Ember Braitenbach (Gr. 4), Karli Sagon and Grady L’Hoir (Gr. 5C), Esme Meszaros (Gr. 5H), Willow Hebert (Gr. 6).
DEADLINE MONDAY 5 P.M.
ELA - Adeline Zidkovich (Gr. 4), Blake Dearing (Gr. 5C), Rylee Zidkovich (Gr. 5H), Emmett L’Hoir (Gr. 6).
Math - Aliyah Didyk (Gr. 4), Aaron Labuca (Gr. 5C), Avaya Silvernagle (Gr. 5H), Harjap Thandi (Gr. 6).
Science - Payton Zidkovich (Gr. 4), Steve Llemit (Gr. 5C), Jaxon
Leschinski (Gr. 5H), Miller Zhang (Gr. 6).
Social Studies - Brady Thoms (Gr. 4), Heidi Letkeman (Gr. 5C), Carver Dearing (Gr. 5H), Meeka Danychuk (Gr. 6).
Physical Education - Tyson Poole (Gr. 4), Presley Steeg (Gr. 5C), Brettly Moore (Gr. 5H), Drew Fick and Winter Cline (Gr. 6).
Most Improved students (picture right) were Aria Mccollum (Grade 4); Brooklyn Mundt and Reece Severight (Grade 5H); Heidi Kramer (Grade 5C); missing Sutton Gidluck (Grade 6).
The Junior Citizenship Award went to Ethan Quessy. Pictured with Teacher Denaye McMahon.
Biggar Central School 2000 Graduation Award Winners
“The rest is still unwritten”
Valedictorian Tanille Larochelle
RJ Dalisay & Kori Owens-Nahorney received the Shirley Rennie Award
Emily Hodgson received the Avalon-Gagenville Trophy
Tanille Larochelle received the Class of ‘42 Award
RJ Dalisay received the Dale Fogelberg Trophy
Nola Derks received the George Lund Memorial Trophy
Tanille Larochelle received the Linda Beckett Memorial Trophy
Taylor Singer received the Mabel Donahue Award
Winnipeg now has two golden boys.
The hockey gods may have kicked Winnipeg Jets in the gut with a second-round playoff ouster, but the team was blessed with a nice consolation prize in late June when future Hall of Famer Jonathan Toews announced he would sign a one-year deal with the Jets.
For Toews, a 12-time 20-goal scorer, it’s a true homecoming, for the 37-year-old veteran who played 15 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks, is a Winnipegger by birth. He grew up in the suburb of St. Vital, bypassed the Western Hockey League to play two seasons at the University of North
Toews’ return to NHL a bonus for Jets
Dakota, and was chosen third overall in the 2006 draft by the Blackhawks.
Three Stanley Cups, a Conn Smythe trophy and 417 goals (counting playoffs) later, Toews was not only the Blackhawks captain and leader, but a Windy City icon.
Then COVID-19 hit, and it hit Toews harder than most. He missed two full seasons, 2023-24 and ’24-’25 due to his battle with long-COVID, but he never contemplated retirement. When he told the hockey world a few months ago he planned to return to the game, teams lined up to sign the true free agent. The Hawks, in the middle of a youthoriented rebuild, weren’t among the bidders.
But general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and the Jets’ brass were indeed interested. They valued his leadership skills, his defensive prowess and still feel he can be a threat to score and set up linemates with his savvy offensive skills. And he came cheap, too, signing a $2 million contract loaded
with incentives that could bolster his income by another $5.5 million or so.
“We are excited to add a proven winner like Jonathan Toews to the Winnipeg Jets,” Cheveldayoff told The Athletic. “It will be a unique opportunity for Jonathan to play for his hometown team. His talent, drive, and experience will be a great complement to our club.”
Toews says he still has some “high level hockey left” and issued a release where he conveyed his thrill of coming home.
“I’m grateful to be making my return to the NHL with the Winnipeg Jets,” Toews said. “It’s very special to come home and play in front of my family and friends in Manitoba. The Jets have been on the rise over the last few seasons and I’m eager to join the group and help however I can.”
Toews gives the Jets additional strength down the middle. Mark Scheifele, Toews and Adam Lowry form a talented threesome and
5 tips to spruce up your home this summer
by News Canada Summer is a perfect time to enjoy the warm weather with family and friends, and it’s also an ideal season for home improvements.
Whether you’re looking to increase your home’s value, make eco-friendly upgrades or simply enhance your living experience, here are a few handy renovation tips to consider.
Seal the gaps. Summer heat can drive up energy costs, so focus on making your home more energy efficient to keep it cool and reduce air conditioning costs. Have a maintenance professional inspect all walls for any cracks that need to be sealed to keep water out and avoid major damage. Upgrade insulation and seal any drafts to prevent cool air from escaping and replace any shingles on your roof that are broken or loose to avoid water leaks.
Upgrade your living space. If your budget allows, consider updating your kitchen, bathroom or living spaces. These are high-traffic areas that significantly impact your
home’s value. Even small changes like new cabinet hardware, recessed lighting or a stylish new backsplash can transform a space.
Get outdoors. Take advantage of the warm weather by enhancing your outdoor spaces. Start by power-washing your deck or patio to remove dirt and grime. Consider staining or sealing the wood to protect it from the elements and give it a fresh appearance. Adding some comfortable outdoor furniture, colourful cushions and a few potted plants can transform your backyard into a cozy retreat. Install energy-efficient fixtures. Replace old incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs, which use less energy and have a longer lifespan. Consider installing a programmable thermostat to better manage your cooling system and help save on energy bills. Ceiling fans are also a great addition to keep air circulating and reduce the need for air conditioning. These simple upgrades can lead to significant savings and increased home comfort.
the fact that Winnipeg didn’t have to lose a rostered player to add Toews is a bonus. It’s like an early Christmas gift for the Jets, who would have always been the front-runner for Toews’ services given his love for his hometown. Fifteen teams spoke with Toews’ agent about the veteran centre, according to The Athletic, including Montreal, Toronto and Colorado.
Just one question: Is there room atop the Manitoba Legislative Building beside the Golden Boy for a statue of a St. Vital-born hockey star?
• From Super 70s Sports, on Twitter: “Tom Brady: “Monitored his health with a strict exercise and nutrition plan and advanced medical testing. Ken Stabler: Woke up that morning so figured he was probably OK. Advantage: Stabler.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Chris Simms claims that no NFL franchise thinks Brock Purdy is a Top 10 quarterback. And if anyone would know
about quarterbacks being outside the top 10, it’s definitely Chris Simms.”
• Globe and Mail columnist Cathal Kelly, on the lengthy contract awarded defenceman Morgan Rielly “that lasts until he’s about 80: “Toronto should rehire Kyle Dubas so they can fire him again for agreeing to that.”
• Comedy guy Torben Rolfsen of Vancouver: “Green Bay’s Jordan Love made a horrible first pitch at a Brewers’ game. Must have been a Packers’ receiver behind home plate.”
• Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel, after a ‘fan’ heckled Arizona’s Ketel Marte about the death of his mother, who died a couple of years ago in a car accident: “If you’re scoring at home, chalk this one up as a strikeout for humanity.”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen, on bad TV ratings in south Florida during the Stanley Cup final: “Alligator wrestling got more views than the Panthers did!”
• Another one from
Rolfsen, after Canada beat Honduras 6-0 in soccer’s Gold Cup: “Sixnothing? Who was in net for Honduras? Carlos Skinner?”
• Former MLB player and broadcaster Joe Garagiola: “I went through baseball as a player to be named later.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “Victoria’s Secret model Emily Ratajkowski once wowed Lakers fans at a game, then had a photo spread in Esquire as Woman of the Year. She went from Staples Center to a stapled centre.”
• A stinky pun from RJ Currie: “Flatulence during a recent World Darts Championship game had competitors reduced to rasps by shouting accusations at each other. Otherwise known as putting the fart before the hoarse.”
• Care to comment? E-mail brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca
Summer moves: Tips for buying a new home this season
by News Canada
Improve indoor air quality. Start by changing the air filters in your HVAC system to ensure better airflow and air quality in your home. Consider adding houseplants, which naturally purify the air and add a touch of greenery to your decor. Plants like spider plants, peace lilies and snake plants are especially good at removing toxins from the air. Don’t forget to turn on the exhaust fan in your kitchen and bathrooms to reduce humidity and prevent mould growth.
If you’re thinking of starting some bigger projects this summer, it’s important to let your insurance provider know to ensure your policy remains in effect.
There may be additional insurance implications if certain work, like electrical or plumbing, isn’t done by licensed professionals. Additionally, renovations that increase your home’s value may also affect your insurance. Whether the project is big or small, be sure to get a quote for any new coverage.
There’s something about summer that makes it feel like the perfect time for a fresh start - and for some, that means buying a new home.
The longer days, warmer weather and flexible schedules make it easier to explore neighbourhoods, schedule viewings and manage the logistics of a move.
But before you fall in love with that front porch or start dreaming about backyard barbecues, it’s important to have a plan. Here’s how to make the most of your summer home search and how you can protect your investment from day one.
Start with a clear budget. Before you browse listings or tour open houses, get preapproved for a mortgage and understand your full financial picture. Remember to factor in additional costs like closing fees, property taxes and moving expenses.
Know what you’re looking for. Make a list of your must-haves and nice-to-haves. Think about location, layout, commute time and even how much yard work
you’re willing to take on. Summer is a busy time for the real estate market, so having a clear idea of what you want helps you move quickly when the right property comes along.
Inspect with a summer eye. In the summer, it’s easier to spot issues like poor air conditioning, pests or drainage problems after a rainstorm. Take advantage of the season to carefully inspect outdoor features like roofing, siding, decks and landscaping. Plan your move strategically. Summer is a peak time for moving companies, so book your movers early and try to avoid weekends and the end of the month if you can. If you’re handling things yourself, rent your truck well in advance and stock up on supplies.
Protect what matters. Your new home is more than just four walls - it’s your sanctuary, your investment and your future. Home insurance helps protect your physical property as well as your belongings. From fire and weather damage to theft or liability coverage, having the right policy in place means you’re prepared for the unexpected. And if you bundle your home and auto insurance, you may even qualify for extra savings - something every new homeowner can appreciate.
Buying a new home is exciting, but it also comes with plenty of moving parts. By starting with a clear plan and making smart choices along the way, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth summer move.
Bruce Penton Penton on Sports
Business & Professional …
ARIES –
Mar 21/Apr 20
Career developments may be a bit unclear this week, Aries. Your motivation may need a little extra boost. You might have to consider if a career change is in order.
TAURUS –
Apr 21/May 21
A lack of information is proving confusing, Taurus. If you suspect there’s more details to uncover, choose a course of action and do your best to get as clear a picture of the situation as possible.
GEMINI –
May 22/Jun 21
Keep your money in your wallet this week, Gemini. You might want to spend it or give it away impulsively and that could affect your finances in an impactful way.
CANCER –
Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, this isn’t a good time to sign contracts or make any significant purchases. Keep your money safe and try to keep your savings account full at this point.
LEO –
Jul 23/Aug 23
People have been asking you to take on too many responsibilities lately, Leo. This could be stressing you out or taking away from your own needs. Learn to turn others away for now.
VIRGO –
Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, this week may present an opportunity to restore your self-confidence. For too long you have been floundering and not finding the traction you need and deserve.
GAMES PAGE …
BRETT’S DECORATING & DESIGN
FLOWER SHOP
Brett…
–
Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, something could be distorting your perspective right now and making it difficult to concentrate and communicate. Take a few days off from your responsibilities.
SCORPIO –
Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, after some gloomy feelings the last few weeks, good news has you feeling like you are on cloud nine. Savor it and celebrate.
SAGITTARIUS –
Nov 23/Dec 21
This is a good week to try to enhance your love life, Sagittarius. Take every opportunity to woo your significant other, and plan a special event for the two of you.
CAPRICORN –
Dec 22/Jan 20
You may want some magical force to whisk away all of the little difficulties that have been affecting you, Capricorn, but it will require hard work to do that.
AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18
Lately there have been a lot of thoughts swirling through your head, so much so that you can’t get any peace, Aquarius. It may be beneficial to sit down with someone to talk it out.
PISCES –Feb 19/Mar 20
Pisces, try something new this week even if it scares you. It is good practice to challenge yourself once in a while to test your resilience to change.
BLANkET
One phone call covers the entire province. Expand your market and increase your profits. Phone… 306-948-3344
independent 122 Main Street, Biggar, Sask. tip@sasktel.net
102 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar 306-948-9750 www.newufitness.ca
LIBRA
CLASSIFIEDS
by Philip Watson, New Beginnings Church, Big-
gar
In recent days a question keeps popping up on my Facebook feed, it goes something like this “What fact were you taught in school that is now proven to be wrong?”
I see many such examples in these modern times.
This got me to thinking, “How do I know when I am being taught a fact or just somebody’s opinion?”
In school I was taught that the layers of rock and dirt of the earth’s crust were deposited over long periods of time (millions of years). Some of the Christians that I started to hang around with said that long periods of time couldn’t explain “Polystrata Trees” a tree that was imbedded in multiple layers of soil.
Then in 1980 when Mount St. Helens erupted the scientists recorded Poly-strata trees in the debris field of the eruption. They also discovered layering of the
debris similar to that of the textbook examples of the geological column.
In the book of Job (found in the Bible), Job questions God, and God responds. In chapters 38-41. God challenges Job with a series of questions showing Gods superior wisdom and knowledge.
[Job 38:1-4 NLT] “1.)
Then the Lord answered Job from the whirlwind: 2.) “Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorant words? 3.)
Brace yourself like a man, because I have some questions for you, and you must answer them. 4.)
“Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you know so much.”
We live in a day and an age were we listen to men who speculate about things and then give their opinions on the subject, instead of trusting the word of the One who was there.
Jim Reiter, MLA
Rosetown-Delisle Constituency
215 Main Street, Rosetown
Monday - Friday, 9:00 - 5:00
Tel: 306-882-4105
Fax: 306-882-4108
Toll Free: 1-855-762-2233
Please call with questions or concerns
RE-ELECT
How to have an unforgettable experience abroad while doing good
by News Canada
E-mail: jimreitermla@sasktel.net Box 278, Rosetown SK S0L 2V0
Seeing new places and experiencing new cultures are fantastic opportunities to expand your perspective. But it’s hard to find a real connection just through a vacation or tourism.
More people are looking for ways to travel and gain new experiences while also helping the places they visit.
It’s hard to know where to start - not because there aren’t chances to help, but because there are almost too many. Our news and social feeds are full of information about issues happening all around the world. But there are organizations and programs dedicated to making the world a better place, and they’re recruiting. Volunteer projects let you
For More Information
Call Cindy Hoppe at 306-948-7147 or visit our Website: www.prairieartroadtrip.ca
broaden your horizons
There are a number of initiatives available that connect Canadians to local projects in different countries. Volunteers experience what the community is like, and in many cases collaborate directly with their neighbours.
“Working side by side with people in these countries to share your expertise is very enriching,” said Patricia Peña, director general of economic development at Global Affairs Canada in a recent interview.
Volunteering can take many forms, from donating your time and physical labour, to administrative and even specialized work that would amount to a fulltime job. Volunteers can build valuable experience, make a meaningful impact and make memories that
last a lifetime.
International development could be your next career move
There are also paid and volunteer opportunities for Canadian professionals in a wide variety of fields to assist with international development efforts.
From anti-corruption to Indigenous-government relations to sustainable mining, partner countries have called on Canadian know-how time and time again to help meet their unique challenges.
“I think one of the big
reasons why they come to us is not only subject matter expertise but also how Canadians are known to work,” said Peña. “The great thing about it is it’s not just Canadians sharing their expertise, but also when they’re there, they learn, and some of that comes back and informs what Canada’s doing.”
Whether you’re looking for the next stage in your career, or even looking for a meaningful reason to come out of retirement, there could be a project you’d be perfect for.
Local Bowlers bring home National Bronze ... Saskatchewan Senior bowling team is bringing home bronze, and they are well represented by Biggar and Perdue athletes. The lane jockeys recently competed at the 2025 Canadian Master Bowling Association (CMBA) Nationals as part of the Saskatchewan contingent. Dave Neufeld (Carrot River), Don MacCullum (Cut Knife), Denise Piller (Regina), Ray Friesen (Saskatoon) and Marilyn Miller (Perdue) with Coach Diane Syrota (Foam Lake) nabbed Bronze for their efforts. Congratulations to Silver medal winners Manitoba, and Southern Ontario winning Gold. A great week to share with my friends, Jason Raschke, Dianne Misener and Kiersten Raschke. (Submitted Photo)
