Sizzle comes to Summer ... Dausha Ilyasov tickles the ivory, Tuesday during the first day of the Northern Lights National Conservatory of Music’s ‘Summer Sizzle’. Everything music invaded Biggar, taking over Biggar Central School and the Majestic Theatre, holding keyboard camps, music symposiums, access to composers, artists and nationally recognized teachers, as well as a trade fair. The event is a perfect tonic to the summer time heat as talented musicians sharpened, learned and performed the sounds that soothe the savage soul. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Smiles all around as Biggar’s Farm in the Dell officially kicked off with a Sod Turning. Dignitaries, the Honourable Terry Jenson, Minister of Social Services, Biggar Mayor Jim Rickwood, RM of Biggar Reeve Jeanne Marie de Moissac, Farm in the Dell’s Jason Watt, Paul Newton and Lynette Zacharias, Kindersley-Biggar MLA Kim Gartner, and the drivers behind the project, Leeann and Dwayne Zagoury, were on hand for the landmark event. See Page 3, ‘Farm in the Dell’ story. (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
It was a remarkable day - long in the making - as Farm in the Dell held an official sod turning event for a new group home and vocational building, Thursday, east of Biggar.
The rural home for 10 individuals with special needs, with room for seven-plus in a day program setting, will employ 15-20 individuals from the local area.
While construction on the land east of Biggar is already underway, Thursday, July 3 was the official kick-off to a project long in the making, one which will sit on 70 acres, offering a unique rural life, yet still provide the amenities and services of town. Not only will it offer the aforementioned employment, but residents will also have jobs.
Dell will hopefully open its doors to the Rocy Homes-built home and commons building to residents in about 10 months.
“This is truly something that is special for Biggar, the RM of Biggar and surrounding area, as well as the families that are going to be able to have a place to go, a place to live and a place to participate to the best
The regular meeting of Biggar Town Council was held June 10 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Attending the meeting were Mayor Jim Rickwood, Councillors Alan Boyle, Nicole Hoppe, Kevin McNicholls, and Ivan Young.
A presentation was made to Council from Landon Grubb on behalf of BDO Canada regarding the Town of Biggar’s 2024 Auditor Report and Draft Financial Statement.
Council resolved that the following reports from Administration and Council Committees be accepted as presented: Committee Meeting
Farm in the Dell officially begins
of their abilities, and live their best lives.” said the Honourable Terry Jenson, Minister of Social Services.
“It has been wonderful to be in Biggar to make this announcement,” the Minister added, while recognizing KindersleyBiggar MLA Kim Gartner for his work on the project.
Jenson said that it would not be long before Farm in the Dell becomes a functioning reality, stressing the Saskatchewan Party’s commitment to the Farm in the Dell program in Biggar with a $2.1-million investment in capital costs.
“It’s an amazing project,” Mayor James Rickwood explained. “Our very progressive community has not only embraced this goal but championed its cause. It has carried it out in a very supportive inclusive and collaborative way.
“Our commitment to this worthy project is not only from the heart, but it demonstrates what a community can achieve when welcoming those who may need a little extra in a familiar and supportive rural setting.”
Rickwood added that
the joy we feel in this incredible project will be returned to us by Dell’s residents in many impactful ways.
Rural Municipality of Biggar Reeve, Jeanne Marie de Moissac, said that it is a honour to be part of the project.
“This is more than a construction site, this is a home, a home in a rural setting where people of
all abilities will live, work and thrive in a family setting, respecting the needs and dignity of each resident,” she stressed.
“As Reeve, I’m proud the RM is supporting this project, including a $230,000 investment to build a road leading to Farm in the Dell.”
The RM Reeve said that it isn’t just about building, grading and gravelling a
road, “this road is about connection. It’s about ensuring everyone has a way in, a way forward, and a place to call home.”
de Moissac paid special attention to Leeann and Dwayne Zagoury who’s dream and determination helped bring about the project in Biggar.
“Projects like Farm in the Dell start with a question, ‘What if?’ and
Council minute highlights
Minutes, May 27, 2025.
Recreation Board Meeting Minutes, May 12, 2025. Recreation Director Report. Assistant Public Works Manager Report. Deputy Administrative Officer Report. Chief Administrative Officer Report.
Council resolved that the General Accounts Paid in the amount of $352,840.60 including payment numbers, payroll deposit numbers, and online payments totalling $214,976.90, and the list of accounts for approval in the amount of $161,560.87 including payment numbers, be approved as submitted.
Council resolved that the following correspondence be accepted and filed: RCMP Report, May 26, 2025. RCMP Report, June 2, 2025. Biggar Rural District Fire Association Meeting Package for June 12, 2025.
Council resolved that the Town of Biggar approve engaging a local realtor through MLS to offer to sell the property located at Lot 6 Block 20 Plan D4770.
Council resolved that the sales agreement with Span West to purchase Town Lots 13-15 Block 6 Plan D4770 in the amount of $125,000 be
accepted as presented.
Council resolved that a letter be sent to the RM regarding landfill contributions.
Council resolved that the Draft 2024 Financial Statement for the Town of Biggar be approved as presented by representative Landon Grubb from BDO Canada.
Council resolved that the Town approve a 100 per cent exemption on the municipal portion of the 2025 property taxes for the Biggar and District Daycare. Also, that the Town approve a 100 per cent exemption on the municipal portion of the 2025 property taxes for
keeps asking that question until that dream comes true,” de Moissac added. “Thank you both for your determination, your faith in this community.”
Once completed, Biggar’s Farm in the Dell project will be receive operating funding for the group home and day program through the Ministry of Social Services.
the Biggar New Horizons. Council resolved that Bylaw enforcement procedures be carried out for businesses with unpaid 2025 business license fees in accordance with the Town of Biggar’s Bylaw to Regulate Businesses.
Council resolved that the Town of Biggar approve the repair of the tractor used for snow removal and other tasks, in accordance with the presented quote.
• Meeting adjourned at 9:14 p.m.
Biggar Fire Report
by Erroll Horst, Biggar Fire Department
That’s right, June is already behind us! Hopefully everyone is finding time to enjoy some nice weather before we start using that “S” word.
June was a quiet month for the fire department, we had three calls, all related to issues with carbon monoxide detectors. Many people may not realize but typically the detectors only have a life span of seven years with some going up to 10. Most will have a date marked on the device indicating it’s intended lifespan since the sensor degrades over time.
The total calls for the year stands at 29 which is below average for this time of year - not really a
bad thing! Practises during the month included water rescue, rope rescue, vehicle extrication and a trip to the Burn Room. We also had our annual Barbecue/Golf day on the 28th.
This year had a few highlights to mention. Retiring with 18 years of service is Alicia Besse. The second member to retire was Captain Cliff Forsyth, contributing an amazing 35 years. Both members will be missed for their many contributions over the years. With the retirement of a captain the search was on for a replacement and the job was awarded to Marvin Evans, stepping up and accepting the red hat and added responsibilities from Captain Forsyth.
Playing on a Green Card
Heaven has wheels ... The Garage on 14 Bar and Grill in Perdue hosted a car show on Saturday bringing in classic iron from near and far. The fourth edition, the show was held in conjunction with BK Garage and Full Line Ag, and was a success. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Alicia Besse is congratulated on 18 years of service to her community by Fire Chief Kelly Dorosh.
Captain Cliff Forsyth, right, relinquishes his role to Marvin Evans. (Submitted Photos)
Captain Cliff Forsyth served his community an amazing 35 years. Here, he is congratulated by Fire Chief Kelly Dorosh, left.
Letter to the Editor:
There has been a load of noise about the state of our health care system.
I want to tell you about my experiences a couple of weeks ago.
I have only praise and admiration for the workers inside the system. I was unwell and took myself to Emergency here in Biggar late on a Sunday night.
Everyone at our hospital was ready to assist me and keep me comfortable. I was X-rayed and diagnosed in no time whatsoever and found myself on route to St. Paul’s. The ambulance attendants were kind and respectful and took care of my needs. I truly was in good hands.
At St. Paul’s ... what a busy place! The attendants and nurses again took care of me and made me as comfortable as I could get in my state. Doctors were examining me and before I knew it, I was on my way to the operating theatre. I woke up hours later and I was not alone.
A warmed blanket was spread on me, and I snoozed and was later attended to by a lovely nursing aid. Then a lunch was sent in, and before I could finish it, I was given permission to go home! Thirty-nine hours later I was home! All fixed and ready to recuperate.
I received the best of care, and everyone applied their skills to see to me on my road to recovery. It was these people who assured me I was in good hands. They are all doing the best they can in a system that is flawed for sure, but it is not because of the care attendants in the system, they just are doing the best they can, and for this I thank them.
Delta Fay Cruickshank, Biggar
by Gerry Chidiac, Troy Media. Chidiac
specializes in languages and genocide studies and works with at-risk students - he received an award from the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre for excellence in teaching about the Holocaust It’s time schools taught students how to think, not what to think. The cost of ignorance is too high In a world drowning in information and misinformation, critical thinking isn’t optionalit’s essential. Trust in the mainstream media has plummeted from over 70 per cent in the 1970s to less than 32 per cent in 2024, according to Gallup. While older generations still rely on cable news, younger people increasingly turn to alternative sources, often without knowing what is credible and what
is not. Today’s challenge is not scarcity of information but overload, much of it designed as clickbait. This has led to growing polarization and a society that is often misinformed. We know not everything online is trustworthy, but we’re rarely taught how to tell the difference.
As an educator, I encourage my students to question what they see. Why is someone telling me this? Are they trying to inform me or manipulate my emotions? We must be especially wary of content that triggers irrational fear or outrage. It’s also critical to ask: Who is paying for this message? Is it funded by a corporation, a government, a political movement or an advocacy group with its own agenda? Next, we should focus
on universal, life-giving principles. Does this content promote respect for all humanity, or does it incite hatred?
Questioning someone’s motives isn’t the same as hating them, but the difference is often blurred online. Finally, we must consider the source’s reputation and whether the claims are supported by facts. Truth matters, and finding it requires effort.
In short, I’m trying to teach my students to think critically. This is too often overlooked by those who see education merely as a path to literacy, numeracy and employment. But without critical thinking, people are more easily manipulated by propaganda and more susceptible to being stirred toward violence and even war.
As an educator, I must
also practise what I preach. I encourage my students to challenge my assumptions because no one is without bias, and I strive to model a relentless pursuit of truth rooted in human dignity.
Over time, I’ve found independent online sources that help me better understand the world. Many are created by journalists who left mainstream media and now operate through platforms like Substack or Patreon, funded directly by viewers.
For Canadian content, Rachel Gilmore, Steve Boots, Samira Mohyeddin and Nora Loreto have earned my trust. For international and U.S. analysis, Aaron Maté - son of respected CanadianJewish physician Gabor Maté - offers exceptional insight. And when it comes to
nuanced discussions of global conflict, former Fox News host Andrew Napolitano features interviews with experts that are often more balanced than anything found in mainstream outlets. These voices aren’t neutral - none of us are - and their work should be read with critical awareness, just as we should with any source. Their value lies not in objectivity but in their willingness to challenge dominant narratives.
These sources also remind us that our traditional understanding of “left” and “right” is increasingly unhelpful.
The labels are loaded with stereotypes and, in today’s media landscape, often obscure more than they clarify. Many of the most honest insights come from those who defy simple ideological
categories. The reality is that anyone can post anything online. That means no one should tell us what to think - but we must learn how to think. That begins with asking better questions and being intentional about who we trust. I’ve shared some sources that I find valuable, but I acknowledge my own biases. My hope is that readers will dig deeper, explore diverse perspectives and seek out media from other countries and languages. Ultimately, the most meaningful thing we can do is promote human dignity. That starts with a relentless pursuit of truth. With more access to life-giving information than at any time in human history, our challenge, and our responsibility, is learning how to find it.
Bob Mason Notable Notes
It would sure be nice if someone were to criticize this column by saying, “That old cluck sure plagiarised himself with that title! Why, it used to be in our old school books!”
Of course it was! When we were school kids up across the river in the 1930’s, the readers had a piece called by that name. It was about a child who marvelled every evening about a far away house that appeared to have windows made of gold. But who, many years later, found that it was just an ordinary place.
The house with the Golden Windows
Most of us have seen this house which from a distance seems so far away and mysterious. But when we get a little closer...
Being young in those days - and whether we liked it or not - fairly unattractive to the local girls, we used to spend a lot of time down along the river.
When we squinted we could see it from where we lived, down by the river a big house was silhouetted against the southern sky across on the other side of Great Bend!
Being on the north side of the river and therefore one thousand miles away, of course we never knew who lived in it although every now and then we would see people down by the waters edge - also one thousand miles away!
We often thought of yelling across to them but the river is pretty wide right there and we wondered if our voices would carry that far. And if we did, what would we
say? And they seemed so far away we wondered if they even spoke English!
Although Dad had often told us that when the Doukhobors moved from Henty (near Ceepee) they built a house across the river. That big dark house to us young fellows at least, was still one of mystery!
Dad said that they began building that place about 1909 or so, I don’t know. But I do know that it was there, and like a lot of us, is going to disappear!
Years and years later, after leaving Great Bend in the 1930’s to farm at Tessier, single-handedly winning the war, and surviving Bulbar Polio, we finally settled at Perdue, and Richard and Y.T. (Yours Truly) made a trip up along the river. We cut across country here and there and eventually ended up on the south side of Great Bend.
It took me a few seconds to realize that the big old abandoned log house we were passing was the
same one we had seen so often from the other side when we were kids.
We drove into a yard that was overgrown with grass. Of course that big old house was empty now, though most of it - at that time - was fairly intact. The roof was still on and most of the balcony was still there.
We had no camera with us but we did have a sheet of paper and pencil. The sketch of that house is lost amongst the papers around here, and some day folks will find it and wonder where it came from.
Many of the logs used in that big old house must have come down the river in the flood. Certainly some were cut on the flats but there are no spruce up in Great Bend. Most, if not all of them, were held in place by two-inch dowels driven through holes that must have taken many hours to bore by hand.
The logs forming the floor of the second storey were extended past the
outside walls about fourfeet on the east side, and were used to support a balcony.
Like a lot of buildings in central Europe at that time, there was no chimney! The smoke from the central fire place went up into the attic and wafted away under the four-foot eaves. Actually, a bird could fly in one side of those eaves and out the other. There sure was lots of room.
In this fine day and age of great conveniences, Rich and I were surprised, on looking into a little 10-foot log shack, to find a little cast-iron pot-bellied heater, almost completely covered with stones - maybe a sauna?
Only the high-class types of society are reported to have steam baths in their homes. Yet here, way back of beyond, were the remains of one that was used way back when!
All in all, it was really a revelation to finally sit there and realize that this far-off “House with the Golden Windows”
had held such real live ordinary inventive people so long ago! That old house and its history is almost gone now as time keeps on passing. One time Y.T. wrote to the Historical Society about it but he never got a reply.
Some years ago, much to our surprise, we say a picture that someone had taken of it in a book entitled, “Taken by the Wind” and wondered if this is the only reminder of it we will ever have. I asked about the country a bit (maybe not to the right people) and surprisingly very few can give much information about it anymore.
As a matter of fact, that very process of forgetting the past is maybe the reason this sometimes not too bright writer, scribbles this stuff. He’s a bit afraid that maybe folks in the future, on looking back, will forget what a great guy he thinks he is!
A Word or Two from The Mayor of Biggar
A Word or Two
by Jim Rickwood
Here we are into July 2025 already and with many events already under our belt.
There always seems to be more coming up to keep us occupied. The Town of Biggar website and Facebook page, as well as The Independent provide a concise list of activities to keep us informed of everything going on. Please get out and enjoy the activities. A lot of volunteer time and effort goes into creating these diversions from the ordinary, so please thank these great town ambassadors for their dedication!
Much needed moisture finally materialized, and we are very thankful to Mother Nature for that delivery of liquid gold we call rain. Our agricultural economy is very reliant on favourable weather for a good crop and grazing. We all hope for the best for everyone in the ag sector.
The Town of Biggar has quite the wave of
activity again this year. On Thursday, July 3, Farm In The Dell held their sod turning event. It was a great day with work already in progress on the residence as well as the day centre. There are many ways to participate in this project so keep posted for events, raffles and opportunities to contribute to this amazing project. It’s a beautiful location for 10 special needs individuals to call home in early 2026, if all goes according to plan.
The Second Avenue West infrastructure replacement project is progressing amid the disruptions that it may present. We ask for your patience throughout this project. There is no doubt it will end with a good look that will last into the distant future.
The area south of First Avenue at the end of Main Street is of course our railway themed park, including the future home of the Farmers Market. We also have the Gateway Park at the north end of Main Street underway too.
The plans had been made public quite some time ago and finally after bureaucratic hold ups, they are underway. It will be an amazing sight to see this finally come to completion. Scheduled completion date is June 2026, and I am sure there will be a celebration to bookend this rejuvenation project that will be visitor and resident friendly. Once again, these two parks
come to us through the generosity of donated funds.
There are still opportunities to contribute to this project. If interested, please contact the Town of Biggar office and they will provide you with the information you may require, including a tax receipt for any donated funds.
Our Main Street has been and continues to be transformed in a beautiful way. Recently, a developer came to Biggar and was amazed by our town, its beauty, people, activities and scope of service. After considering two locations for a 24-unit condo development project, the question as to the availability of the vacant properties on the east side of Main Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues was posed. Inevitably, the developer was insistent on that location due to the beauty that was mainly the result of the Biggar Revitalization Project.
We couldn’t be happier than to welcome the future development of “Brooklyn on Main”. Progress has started with Geotech survey, and it is certainly looking like a Fall 2025 ground swell is possible. Along with the condo development, the vacant property on the east side of Main Street between Fourth and Fifth Avenues has been sold and will become an office building. The developer will offer their own reveal as time passes. A 2025
start on this project is also anticipated. While still on the topic of development, two residential properties have also been sold on McPhee Street. Our progress has been watched and admired by many other towns and visitors who are very complimentary on what we are doing here in Biggar and with great admiration, they pass on those kudos with tones of envy. The invitation to come check us out is always extended with the reminder that 2026 will
be Biggar and better when the Railway Plaza Park and Gateway projects are completed.
I would like to point out the civic pride that exists in most of us is often slighted by the actions of others. Please reach out to the RCMP or Town Office should you witness assaults on our town’s assets or that of other individuals. Disrespect towards our town and ourselves should never be normalized or tolerated. Biggarites have been identified as a welcoming, kind
and helpful group who appreciate community. Let us keep that image and protect the beauty that is Biggar... In closing, I wish everyone an amazing summer and will keep everyone posted on Biggar updates through this avenue of information. Once again, please watch our info streams for upcoming events and get out and enjoy them. Kindness and compliments are free so please pass them on in generous portions!
High School Football best players take to the field…The best high school football players from Saskatchewan and the best high school players in the USA got together for a grid iron special and the annual Can/Am Bowl in Rosetown this past July 1. It was a hard fought battle to claim the coveted Can/Am trophy. Canada has only won this trophy 6 times in the last 40 years, with the last victory in 2019 in Wakaw, Saskatchewan. The Canadians started strong in this game and were leading at half time. In the second half the Canadians were no match for the skilled Americans as the final score ended 70-52 in favor of the Americans. The night was perfect for football, there was a large crowd as many locals came out to enjoy the football and the night finished off with a spectacular fireworks show put on by Dale Buxton and his crew from Biggar. (photo for the Independent by Dale Buxton)
Mayor Jim Rickwood
Kim Gartner
The Saskatchewan Traveller
by Trudy and Dale Buxton
Let’s take a break from the Alberta Ride for a week. This past weekend we finally made it on the bike for a small adventure over to Blackstrap and some food at a Tiki bar that is situated inside the park.
It was a beautiful day for travelling, a day where
the wind wasn’t blowing a gale and skies clear.
On this day we travelled east on Highway 14 making a right hand turn on Highway 673, which is at Asquith and travelled across country to Delisle. It’s nice this time of year to travel across the secondary roads as you see all the fantastic crops and spring growth taking shape.
Once we get to Delisle we stopped at one of our favourite stores, The Creekside Country Home Décor, and see what is new inside. It always seems that we find some interesting treasure inside, and today was no exception - we found another birdhouse to add to the collection.
Back on the bike we take a leisure ride from Delisle to Pike Lake on Highway 766. For those that just like to travel and see different country taking this back road is really rewarding with not a whole lot of traffic.
Did you know that Pike Lake Provincial Park sits on a ‘oxbow lake’?
An oxbow lake is a body of water that forms into a U-shaped body of water. Pike Lake used to be attached to the South Saskatchewan River but was cut off from the main flow to form its own lake. Pike Lake offers many family activities during the summer including a waterpark and beach.
From Pike Lake we make a right on Highway 762 - or the Valley Roadand head into Saskatoon. The Valley Road is always a nice little road to travel into the city.
Next up we head south to Dundurn and hang a left on Highway 211 towards Blackstrap Provincial Park. Before we get there, we decided to check out the little community of Thode.
Thode is a resort community of around 160 permanent residents
and expands during the summer months.
The name Thode comes from a Grand Trunk Pacific Railway employee, John Thode, who worked on the railway construction. Although he was not directly involved in the making of the community, the village named it Thode in his honour.
Thode sits on the banks of Blackstrap Lake and enjoys all of the amenities. Across the lake we have Blackstrap Provincial Park, which offers a fourseason family experience with many activities yearround.
Blackstrap gets its name from the manmade mountain that was built on site as a ski hill for
the 1971 Canada Winter Games and continued to operate as a ski hill until 2007. The mountain itself is one of only a few manmade mountains in the world to be constructed, and towers 45 metres above the Saskatchewan landscape.
On this day we came for lunch and the Tiki bar that we found offers some very good food and some nice beverages, a good view from the deck, and during the afternoon on a weekend, a little live music to entertain.
Overall a very good experience that we would recommend to anyone looking for a days drive. Stay tuned next week as we continue our Alberta ride.
Tiki Bar at Blackstrap, Sk
“Welcome to the resort Village of Thode”
Fairs a part of Memory Lane
Poppies blooming to remember
difference as a youth I went in the show ringoften as a helper - to show cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and the memory making me smile, even chickens.
Today many of the fairs attended back then - if they even still exist - have few ties to farming.
Calvin Daniels Agriculture
by Calvin Daniels
It was fair week in Yorkton and with that always comes a flood of nostalgia for this writer.
Summer fairs were my summer holidays for years as we showed livestock from Saskatoon to Prince Albert to Nipawin to Swan River and a number of other exhibitions large and small.
That all started more than a half century ago, and fairs were very different back then.
The difference was that decades ago summer fairs were largely focused on being showcases for agriculture with midways and grandstands sort of an add-on.
To get an idea of the
Yorkton is a good example; thanks to 4-H they still have beef cattle, although long gone are summer purebred shows.
A light horse show remains, but long gone are the draft horses.
Gone too are sheep and goats and swine, and the once popular and extensive machinery row - a chance for farmers to look at and discuss the latest machinery releases. It really hit home this year as I drove through the grounds past a swine barn where I spent so many summer shows, seeing the building now nothing but a storage shed.
A bit farther on and I had to look twice as I realized one of the old horse barns was gone. So much show history just lost, with only a gravel
patch to mark its previous existence.
I immediately think of the cattle barns I just passed. They are closed up, looking forlorn as if they know their fate will soon be that of the lost horse barn.
Now I realize 50-plus years is a relatively long time. I recognize that most some mornings climbing out of bed with a creaking back, but I still lament the changes at times, never more so than fair time when I come face-to-face with the lost days of my youth.
Sure some of the lost elements are now at Harvest Showdown in Yorkton, but what of agriculture at the now gone Saltcoats Fair, or Golburn or Connaught, or Dauphin or dozens of others?
Farming changes year-by-year, as do communities and the interests of the populace, but I still find myself wishing I could spend just one more summer on the ‘show circuit’ with a trailer of stock going fairto-fair.
by Delta Fay Cruickshank for the Biggar Museum and Gallery Poppies have become the symbol of remembrance of war and sacrifice.
We planted poppies in the planter outside the Biggar Museum and Gallery in May this year, shortly after the official end of the Second World War, May 5, 1945.
Many men and women from Biggar and area went from the safety and security of their homes here on the prairie and took off across land and sea to defend freedom. Not just from the First World War but also from the Second World War. In the museum’s Research Library, we have a book compiled by Rae Chamberlain. In this book is everyone who signed up to go to Europe to join the struggles for rights. Many of these men and women were going back to the countries their parents had emigrated from.
There is a new exhibit in the museum. It recalls the role women from Biggar played during the Second
World War. Some women went off to Europe to be nurses and others stayed home to tend the crops and care for the children.
The women created and attended organizations that did what they could to support the soldiers. They knit socks, rolled bandages and baked to raise funds for supplies
to send.
As you walk or drive past the planter in front of the Biggar Museum and Gallery, give a second to thank those who paid the ultimate price for freedom. And believe we can go for another 80 years without our sons and daughters going off to war.
CLASSIFIEDS
by Father Edward Gibney, Biggar/Landis Roman Catholic Church
The parable of the houses built on sand or on rock, speak to us about two things.
The first is that, in a world which is fixated on image, we need to focus on the stability that can only be attained through God. The second is a warning, letting us know that we will be tested; that there will be storms and difficulties in our lives, that will challenge the strength of that foundation in God.
When Jesus was growing up in Nazareth, and during his years of ministry around the Sea of Galilee, he would have seen build-
ings, even towers, being built among the rocks that were plentiful in those areas.
Some have even quipped that, due to the fact that in Israel there is more stone than wood, Jesus was probably a stone worker, not a carpenter, and I think this is expressed in the fact that He could see the importance of a building’s foundation. He could recognize the futility of building a pretty, ornamented tower, if its foundation was not secure. Indeed, he knew that the greater the building, the more important the foundation.
It is ridiculous to construct a building by putting no effort into the foundation, while spending your
entire budget on the exterior design. The beauty of a building is meaningless if it is going to collapse during its first major storm.
And that is why Jesus warns us about the coming storm. He tells us, “The rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house,” and of course, the house built with a solid foundation survives.
Our foundation is our faith in God, but the solidity and security of that foundation is imbued through our humble obedience to the teachings of our Lord. Saint James tells us, “Faith without works is dead.” We have a foundation of faith, but we must reinforce it in how we live our day-to-day lives.
PRESSURE WASH SERVICE
About 25 years ago, on Saturday Night Live, the comedian Billy Crystal, portrayed a character who would say, “It’s not how you feel, it’s how you look, and you look marvellous.”
It was humour, but unfortunately our society has embraced that idea and a great many of our neighbours are more concerned about image than strength of character.
God has warned us that troubles will arise in our lives, and we need to prepare ourselves for those difficulties by building our foundations on God’s word.
Fill your mind with positive and motivational thoughts and you’ll be much happier in the long run, Aries. It’s easy to focus on negatives, but a change of perspective is liberating.
TAURUS –
Apr 21/May 21
It is possible that a lack of energy is affecting your ability to do the things that you normally enjoy, Taurus. Figure out ways to get more rest so you will not lack energy.
GEMINI –
May 22/Jun 21
It seems your social skills have been less consistent than in the past, Gemini. Do you have a reason why you have been pulling away from others lately? Get back on track.
CANCER –
Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, someone might recommend you for a leadership position and you could be inclined to take it. This is something that is out of your wheelhouse, but you’ll make the most of it.
LEO –
Jul 23/Aug 23
Leo, trusting someone else right now is something you might find challenging. It could be because you don’t trust your instincts. You’ll have to find a way around these feelings.
VIRGO –
Aug 24/Sept 22
Virgo, you haven’t been available for some key people, and you’ll find they’ve pulled away. You may miss their presence, but you can mend fences if you hope to.
–
Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, you have been making excuses for someone in your life in the hopes that the relationship could be salvaged. But the other person must make an effort as well.
SCORPIO –
Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you have been putting your goals aside due to overwhelming circumstances and general procrastination. Now is the time to get things back on schedule.
SAGITTARIUS –
Nov 23/Dec 21
It’s time to engage with the activities that you are passionate about, Sagittarius. There is never a “right” opportunity to get things started; you just need to take that first step.
CAPRICORN –
Dec 22/Jan 20
Someone who understands you may enter your life, Capricorn. It may feel like you already know and understand this person, even though you have just met.
AQUARIUS –Jan 21/Feb 18
It’s possible that you might feel stuck with someone in a situation that is not to your liking, Aquarius. You can be a catalyst for change if you start taking action.
PISCES –Feb 19/Mar 20
You are about to have a eureka moment, Pisces. Everything you have been fretting about will then fall into place. It will be some smooth sailing afterwards.
independent 122 Main Street, Biggar, Sask. tip@sasktel.net
LIBRA
Business & Professional …
OBITUARIES
FRANK WEEKES
March 27, 1927 - May 15, 2025
Frank Weekes passed away peacefully on May 15, 2025, at the age of ninety-eight. Frank was born in Perdue Sask. on March 27th 1927th to Percival & Marie Weekes.
Frank & his wife Helen worked extremely hard farming and ranching. Building a large farm and feedlot. Weekes Land & Cattle Co. eventually grew to a one-time capacity of ten thousand head of cattle. Producing annual revenue of $30,000,000.00. Their feedlot produced one-third of the cattle slaughtered at Intercontinental Packers located in Saskatoon Sask. Weekes Land & Cattle Co. was a major purchaser of livestock, feed grains, straw, and hay. Employing 15- 20 people.
Granddaughter Callie Poletz. “I will always remember the memories with grandpa where we would go to Saskatoon during the summer and go to folk fest. That’s by far one of my favou-
rite memories with him we would dance and sing the music and just have such an amazing time.”
Granddaughter Kate Buxton. “Grandpa Frank was always one of my favourite people to visit on Halloween. Every year me and my siblings would visit him at the Sunshine care home Halloween night, and he would always have the biggest smile and a bucket of candy waiting for us.”
Frank is survived by sons Doug Weekes (Ann), Randy Weekes (Cindy), Owen Weekes (Donna) and numerous grand children and great grand children. Frank was predeceased by his wife Helen, Parents Percival & Marie Weekes, siblings John Weekes, Erna (Elwyn) Wilson, Kitty (John) Lockwood.
While Toronto Blue Jays are needed having an unexpectedly great season, baseball fans in general are enjoying a terrific season on a number of fronts as Major League Baseball passes its halfway mark.
Trying to project a World Series winner in July is a fool’s game, but it was hardly in doubt back in April when most of the game’s followers were declaring the Los Angeles Dodgers to be a repeat winner of the October (that runs into November) Classic. And why not? The Dodgers dominated the 2024 season and returned with almost the same powerful lineup but with one key addition: Slugger Shohei Ohtani was returning to the mound. The Dodgers in a cakewalk, right? Not so fast. The first team to get to 50 victories this year was somewhat of a surprise: The Detroit Tigers, who grabbed a wildcard playoff berth last year after languishing
Skubal sparks Tigers’ rise from the depths
at or near the basement of the American League Central for nearly a decade. As the calendar flipped from June to July, the Tigers and Dodgers had identical records atop MLB’s 32 teams. Leading the way for the Tigers is arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Tarik Skubal, who won the AL’s triple crown of pitching last year (wins, ERA, strikeouts). He’s back at it again this year, with a 10-2 record, 2.13 ERA and 138 strikeouts in 109 innings.
But while the Tigers were the first to 50 wins, all teams in the American League must keep their eye on New York Yankees, who would likely prevail in a bestof-seven championship series against the Tigers. Outfielder Aaron Judge is having another sensational season and is the mid-season favourite to win the MVP again. Free-agent pitcher pickup Max Fried is earning his hefty salary, going 10-2 with a 2.13 ERA at midseason.
While the Dodgers posted the best halfseason record, they’re far from an automatic World Series participant. Chicago Cubs are having a season to remember, and Philadelphia Phillies and NY Mets appear to be the class of the NL East, and any one of those
teams has the firepower to dislodge the Dodgers in a short series. Individually, there have been some breakout stories. Catcher Cal Raleigh of Seattle has become the new Sultan of Swing, bashing 35 home runs in his first 87 games, a pace that would give him 65 homers. Judge is on his heels, with 32 homers and a league-leading OPS (on base percentage plus slugging) of 1.202. And a youngster by the name of Jacob Misiorowski of Milwaukee Brewers reminded baseball fans of Fernando Mania of 45 years ago by making a huge rookie splash. In his first two starts, totalling 11 innings, the 6-foot-7 23-year-old did not give up a single hit. In his third outing, he was touched for three hits in five innings and outdueled Pittsburgh mound sensation Paul Skenes. Opponents are batting .061 against him. Meanwhile, Blue Jays fans are enjoying watching their team flirt with first place in the A.L. The season’s second half should be exciting.
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen: “France is replacing Russia in Olympic hockey next year, so berets over weird fur hats will be in fashion.”
• Rolfsen again: “U.S. law enforcement has cracked down on gang violence. When are they going to
get to the WNBA?”
• Globe and Mail columnist Cathal Kelly, on Masai Ujiri trading “anchor” Andrea Bargnani to the Knicks in exchange for valuable draft picks: “If sports had a criminal code, that trade would have been a Class A felony.”
• Another one from Kelly, with advice to fans in a column about blistering heat at Wimbledon: “If you feel faint, then for God’s sake don’t pass out while a point is being played. It will distract the players.”
• Manitoba premier Wab Kanew, on the Jets signing Jonathan Toews to a contract: “It’ll
be really great for the documentary they make about the Winnipeg Jets winning the Stanley Cup.”
• Torben Rolfsen again: “Joey Chestnut on cover of Hot Dog 26 video game.”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “Joey Chestnut once again won the 4th of July hot dog eating contest, eating just over 70 hot dogs in six hours. The real loser in this? Joey Chestnut’s plumber.”
• American political commentator George Will, (snipped from Jack Finarelli’s sportscurmudgen.com site): “Football combines two of the worst things in American life. It is
violence punctuated by committee meetings.”
• Headline at fark.com: “I don’t want to say that gambling has ruined ESPN but here’s an article on the odds of the July 4 hot-dog-eating contest.”
• One more from Cathal Kelly, on waiting 18 minutes in line for strawberries and cream at Wimbledon: That is “something I would not normally do. One of my rules for life is that the only things I (grudgingly) line up for are airport security and the checkout at Costco.”
• Care to comment? E-mail brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca
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Bruce Penton Penton on Sports
U13 Ladies at the top….Congratulations to the U13 girls ball team for a harf fought season and coming out on top as the Gold Division League Champions. Good luck to the girls on future tournaments. (Photo for the Independent submitted)
