March 14, 2019

Vol. 110 No. 11

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Mamma Mia sold out! . . . New Creations Community Players cast Allan Beaton, left, Michaela Hoppe, centre, and Alric Massie rehearse some scenes Sunday as the musical comedy gets ready for opening night of their latest offering, “Mamma Mia� at the end of this month. Tickets for the production are sold out.

(Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

16 pages

$1.50

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Skaters from the Biggar Skating Club held their annual gala event at the Jubilee Stadium, Friday, with the theme: “The Greatest Showman�, and what a show these young athletes put on. Twisting and turning, gliding and pivoting with grace beyond their young years, these up and coming showmen and women were a delight as they revealed the skills learned over the past year of competition and learning. It left many in the audience looking forward to next season.

(Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Biggar becoming “Curling Town, Canada” as Flasch seconds Alberta to Brier win Another win for Biggar . . . well, a win for Kevin Koe’s Alberta squad at the Brier this past weekend.

But we helped . . . sort of!

Colton Flasch - born and raised in Biggar - did all the heavy lifting as part of Koe’s winning Brier effort.

Flasch, second for the Koe rink adds to the Biggar’s impressive list of curling accomplishments ranging from Sandra Schmirler to Teejay Surik, to Anita and Robyn Silvernagle, Brett Barber: provincial, national, world and Olympic titlists.

In Brandon, Manitoba, Flash added his name to the list in an exciting 4-3 win over Brendan Bottcher for the 2019 crown.

The Kevin Koe skipped rink with Flash as sec-

ond, third B.J. Neufeld, lead Ben Hebert, were in tough against Bottcher’s rink for the nail-biter win to advance to the 2019 World Men’s Curling Championship in Lethbridge, March 30 to April 7. They will also represent North America in the Continental Cup next year and as Team Canada for the 2020 Brier.

The all-Alberta final, Koe, trailing 3-2 in the final end of the game, made a brilliant shot to count two for the dramatic win. Koe went 13-0 for the perfect Brier weekend.

Flash, along with Neufled, were new additions to the Calgary rink. Koe, who admitted to throwing a little light at times, credited his sweepers for making shots count.

For Flash, he adds to

an already impressive list of curling accomplishments: Saskatchewan Junior Champ, Canadian Junior Champ, SaskTel Tankard champ, appearances in the World Junior Championships, World Curling Tour Grand Slam Biggar’s Colton Flash can put “Brier Champ” behind his name. The Biggar product won the events, 2011 Tim Horton Brier with Kevin Koe’s Alberta rink. Left to right: Kevin Koe, B.J. Neufled, Colton Players’ Flash, Ben Hebert, Ted Appelman and John Dunn. (Photo for The Independent by Curling Canada/ ChampionMichael Burns) ship, 2012 Masters of Curling, 2013 kard, to name but a few. will add even more to 2013 Olympic pre-qualSaskatchewan Provincial No doubt, Flash, 28, this growing list! ifying, 2016 Tim Horton Men’s Championships, Brier, 2018 SaskTel Tan-

Spring runoff potential varies across Saskatchewan March 6, the Water Security Agency (WSA) released a spring runoff forecast for 2019.

The WSA is generally expecting below normal snowmelt runoff in the far north, near normal snowmelt runoff over central areas of the province, and below normal snowmelt runoff over much of southern Saskatchewan.

Above normal snowfall in February has increased the runoff potential for most areas of the province. While the snowpack is now

near normal over many areas of southern Saskatchewan, dry conditions in the summer and fall of 2018 will lower the runoff potential.

There is an area west of Prince Albert, over to Lloydminster and Cold Lake, where an above normal snowmelt runoff response is expected due to wetter conditions at freeze-up in 2018 and an above normal snowpack.

While above normal runoff is expected over this area, flooding conditions are not likely based on current conditions.

Well below normal snowmelt runoff is expected over an area extending from the upper end of Lake Diefenbaker east toward Leross. This area was quite dry in 2018 and the snowpack is below normal. Some agricultural water supply issues could be present within this area in 2019 if conditions do not improve.

The runoff potential could change as there is potentially six weeks of winter weather remaining. However, based on

current conditions, well above normal snowfall would be required in March to give rise to flooding concerns over most of the province.

Water supplies from the province’s major reservoirs are expected to be adequate in 2019.

Desirable summer operating levels are also expected at recreational lakes within the province in 2019.

The WSA will issue another forecast in early April if runoff is not yet underway.

Property Crime Stats (for the period, February 17 to 23) February 17: Possession of Stolen Property (RM of Eagle Creek) Stolen truck. Cleared by Charge.

February 21: Theft of Truck (Town of Biggar) Stolen Truck. Cleared by Charge.

February 22: Other Theft Under $5,000 (Town of Biggar) Theft of Identification. Unfounded.

February 23: Break and Enter - Business (Town of Biggar) Door open to local business.

Unfounded.

GAS PRICES AT THE PUMP… WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13, 2019… 11:00 a.m. (stations randomly selected)

Biggar ..............................................109.9¢/L Duperow Cardlock ...........................107.9¢/L Perdue… ...........................................109.9¢/L Landis Cardlock ...............................109.9¢/L Wilkie ...............................................102.9¢/L Unity .................................................102.9¢/L North Battleford… ............................105.9¢/L Rosetown… .......................................109.9¢/L Saskatoon .........................................109.9¢/L Kindersley ........................................104.9¢/L Lloydminster ....................................110.9¢/L Humboldt .........................................105.9¢/L Swift Current ....................................109.9¢/L Meadow Lake ................................... 99.9¢/L

Lottery Numbers…

UNOFFICIAL

649 - Sat., March 9 22, 23, 26, 34, 42, 46 Bonus 03 Extra 4947590 649 - Wed., March 6 01, 03, 18, 19, 22, 37 Bonus 30 Extra 6514239 Western 649 - Sat., Mar. 9 02, 11, 18, 34, 38, 41 Bonus 37

Western 649 - Wed.,Mar. 6 04, 14, 24, 31, 32, 33 Bonus 16 Lotto Max - Friday, March 8 02, 09, 16, 17, 21, 22, 32 Bonus 38 Extra 5322467 Western Lotto Max - Fri., Mar. 8 04, 09, 15, 26, 31, 43, 44 Bonus 48

Thiis s We Week . . .

On the musical road with Red Moon Road . . .

Folk and pop trio, Red Moon Road’s Daniel PeoquinHopfner, left, Sheena Rattai, centre and Daniel Jordan played an entertaining evening of music and

story at the Biggar Majestic Theatre, March 6. The concert was the sixth in the Biggar and District Arts Council season. (Independent Photo by Ana Irvine)

Opinions _____________________ 4 Agriculture ___________________ 7 Sports & Recreation ___________ 8 Classifieds ___________________ 10 - 12 Business & Professional Directory 13- 14

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

The public has a right to know The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities held its annual convention this week. As is customary the usual business of the members was discussed and motions were put forward. One such motion at SARM was to restrict Freedom of Information requests and to charge a fee.

Minister Warren Kaeding was one of the speakers and during his address he stressed the importance of good governance and communication with ratepayers. “I think there’s a expectation by voters to make sure that they’re represented the best way that they can be,” Kaeding said.

Having access to elected officials and the way they are spending the public’s money -- your money -- is part of a democratic society, an open and accountable government. It is not okay for elected bodies to hold private meetings, to refuse to talk to taxpayers, to refuse to publish minutes of their meetings. There is nothing that needs to “be kept under wraps” when is comes to spending public money.

In fact there should never, never, never be an instance where it is necessary for any citizen to have to file a freedom of information form to obtain answers to what the elected officials are not. Not at any government level -- municipal, provincial, federal.

The fact that these forms are being filed daily and sometimes more than once indicates a failure on the part of those who have been elected. They have failed the people who voted for and trusted them.

They should hang their heads in shame.

Good governance is important as is good communication. At all levels of government.

P.H.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR are welcome.

They MUST be signed, approximately 300 words in length and are subject to editing.

An open letter to Canadian workers To: Canadian Workers From: William B.P. Robson, CEO of the C.D. Howe Institute Date: March 11, 2019 Re: You Need Better Tools to Compete For economists and traders, Statistics Canada’s release of data on gross domestic product earlier this month is already old news. GDP barely rose – 0.1 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2018. So the Bank of Canada would not hike the overnight rate, which it did not. And last week’s strong jobs report reassured us that we’re not tipping into recession. So on we go.

For all Canadians with jobs, however, StatCan’s numbers carried another message, more trou-

bling than the marginal increase in GDP. Business investment fell sharply in the fourth quarter of 2018 – down 11 per cent at an annual rate in real (inflation-adjusted) terms – and finished the year more than four per cent below its level a year earlier.

The biggest component, structures such as buildings and engineering, fell at a 15 per cent annual rate.

Machinery and equipment was off nearly five per cent. Investment in intellectual property was up on the quarter, but the overall picture was profoundly disappointing at a time when unemployment is low, the economic cycle is mature, and Canadian workers need gains in incomes that only productivity-boosting investment can secure.

Short-term concerns about quarterly GDP growth aside, weak business investment is a longterm threat to Canada’s prosperity. Additions to Canada’s stock of buildings, equipment and other physical capital, and intangibles such as computer software, machinery, buildings, engineering infrastructure and intellectual property equip Canadian workers to raise their output, compete in the world economy, and earn higher incomes.

During the decade before the financial crisis and recession of 2008-09, Canada’s record on business investment was relatively good. With supportive tax policies and trade liberalization, our per-worker performance was good enough to narrow long-standing gaps between us and the United States and other developed countries. After the slump a decade ago, investment in structures – much of it related to a boom in the energy sector – continued Canada’s relatively good performance

www.biggarindependent.ca

thee Phone: 306-948-3344

(see Figure).

In 2014, however, that all changed. Lower oil prices, fears – some realized – of US protectionism, and more burdensome and unpredictable regulation – especially in the energy sector –all weighed on our performance. The most recent figures show investment in structures barely above its pre-crisis peak, while investment in machinery and equipment, and investment in intellectual property, are lower than they were in 2007. With employment up more than 10 percent since then, the average Canadian worker is getting far less new capital to work with.

The list of problems holding investment back is long. Although the federal government moved to allow faster write-offs of many kinds of equipment last fall, relatively high taxes on earnings and property make potential investors think twice. Protectionism in the United States and other trading partners increases the need for Canada to reduce frictions at the border and promote freer trade at home. Policies that are throttling the fossil fuel sector and raising electricity prices need to change. And governments need to hit pause on regulations outside the energy sector that delay projects, impede access to capital, and tilt businesses toward locating top talent and operations outside Canada.

The list of problems may be long, but the rewards from tackling it are big. Not that many years ago, businesses in Canada were investing robustly, not just adding to the tools their workers used year by year, but improving their workers’ position against competitors abroad. We can raise our game again.

For the sake of our future prosperity, we must.

Fax: 306-948-2133

Publications Mail Registrations No. 0008535 Published by THE INDEPENDENT PRINTERS LTD. and issued every Thursday at the office of publication, 122 Main Street, Biggar, Saskatchewan, S0K 0M0 Publishers - Margaret and Daryl Hasein Editor - Kevin Brautigam Advertising Consultant - Urla Tyler Composition/Photographer - Anastasiia Krasnova Irvine

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P. O. Box 40 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

COPYRIGHT The contents of The Independent are protected by copyright. Reproduction of any material herein may be made only with the written permission of the publisher.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Biggar Independent invites the public to participate in its letters to the Editor section. All letters must be signed.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

The story behind those good luck charms “I have my Lucky Charms in the morning and I feel magical,” said Tracy Morgan.

Of course, Morgan was talking about the breakfast cereal but there are any variety of charms that are thought to bring good luck. As we approach St. Patrick’s Day with talk of leprechauns, pots of gold at the end of rainbows and shamrocks, let’s take a look at some of the lucky charms people believe in.

First, back to the breakfast cereal. Those marshmallow shapes are meant to bring some magic to your morning.

Each one has a special meaning or “power”. The hearts have the power to bring things to life. The shooting stars give the power to fly. Horseshoes represent the power to speed things up. Green clovers give you luck of course, but you are never quite sure what kind of luck. Blue moons give the power of invisibility and rainbows will let you travel from place to place. Red balloons give the power to make things float. Unicorns are

Sounds like a lot of work special. they can cleanse to get one charm. water with a touch of One can’t forget the their horn, heal whatever four leaf troubles clover, you and particularly will always this close know when to St. Patyou are rick’s Day. telling the The odds truth. Quite of finding a powersuch a leaf ful cereal are one in to have 10,000. in your There is an bowl in the old Irish morning. verse that Perhaps goes like one of the this: most well One leaf known is for fame, symbols of Peggy Hasein And one good luck leaf is for is the rabwealth, bit’s foot.

And one is for a faithThis lucky charm was ful lover, introduced into AmeriAnd one to bring you can culture by African glorious health, slaves. However, it is Are all in the four believed that the origin leafed clover. comes from the Celtics The dream catcher who believed that rabbits comes from Native lived underground giving American culture. For them the ability to speak those who have trouble with the spirits. Not all sleeping, a dream catcher rabbit feet are lucky. may be for you. The The charm must be the dream catcher traps the back foot on the left nightmares of the perhand side, and the rabbit son sleeping, bestowing must be killed under a new moon in a cemetery. good luck and allowing

Neighbourly News

Enjoying the fruits of their labour

by Delta Fay Cruickshank for Biggar Greenspace Community Garden The “Students Who Garden” enjoyed a potluck at the museum on Thursday, March 7.

Last school year, the students of the St. Gab’s Grade 8/9 class filled the boxes behind the school with strawberries, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, lettuces, herbs and flowers. In a private garden they planted corn, pumpkin and beans in a “Three Sisters” configuration. They also planted hot cayenne peppers, sweet red peppers, more carrots, more cucumbers, beets, potatoes, peas, beans and lots of sunflowers!

Throughout the summer, they got together and weeded, harvested, replanted, and really just hung out and enjoyed their time together in the garden.

With the lettuce and flower harvest they created a lovely salad and invited the Mayor

for lunch! In the summer they made borscht with their harvests. The pumpkin was made into a Jack O’Lantern for Halloween. The tomato crop was frozen. Chilies and peppers went into a hot pepper jelly, and flowers were the centre of some very impressive photos.

Some of the class, then went off to BCS2000 to start Grade 10. Earlier in this school year, the present Grade 8/9 class got together in the museum and created a feast of spaghetti and meatballs with some of the frozen tomatoes. They invited the now Grade 10’s and everyone had a wonderful time and meal, no leftovers at all!

But, there were still some frozen tomatoes left, what to do … have another feast! The current grade 8/9 class was invited and the Grade 10’s planned another feast!

But first a few of last year’s class got together

and a very delicious salsa sauce was made with those frozen tomatoes!

This salsa served with nachos was just one of the dishes to the table!

We had everything, we figured it was traditional foods from at least seven different countries. Platters of food and drink filled tables in the gallery. It was all fun and food!

At the end, all the dishes were washed, we didn’t use paper plates.

Why should the earth have to receive so much garbage when we are celebrating the bounty the earth has given us?

Everyone helped out and the museum was left tidy and happy that the voices and laughter of young people filled it for hours!

We all left full and happy and determined to garden again this year.

We all left determined that one day the Biggar Green Space Community Garden will be in a location at the end of Main Street!

Online/Pickup… $36.75 Within 40-mile Radius… $42.00 Outside 40-mile Radius… $47.25

the good dreams to flow freely.

Horseshoes are also considered lucky, but only if they are turned upwards. Hang them upside down and all the luck runs out. It hails from England and many other European countries.

Keys are also considered to be a good luck charm. They are a symbol of fortune and liberation worldwide. They are traditionally used in many societies and ceremonies. As an example Jewish midwives would give keys to a woman giving birth to unlock the infant and ensure a safe delivery. Keys are also associated with the opening of doors and freedom, or a symbol of the key to one’s heart.

However, to those who have lost their keys and spend time frantically looking for them, the good luck part is elusive.

Jim Reiter, MLA

Rosetown-Elrose 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 E-mail: jimreitermla@sasktel.net Box 278, Rosetown SK S0L 2V0 Please call with questions or concerns

19033BG0 19033BG1

ASSESSMENT NOTICE FOR TOWN OF ASQUITH Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Town of Asquith for 2019 has been prepared and is open to inspection at the office of the Administrator of the municipality until the time for lodging appeals has expired, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday to Friday on the following days: March 15, 2019 to April 15, 2019 A Bylaw pursuant to section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to appeal his/her assessment to the District Board of Revision is required to file his/her complaint(s) in the prescribed form with a $200.00 fee to: The Assessor, Town of Asquith Box 160 Asquith, Saskatchewan S0K 0J0

by April 15, 2019 Dated at Asquith, Saskatchewan, March 15, 2019.

Holly Cross, Assessor

19033JJ0

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Whosʼs who!

19033KK0 19033KK2

Having started out writing these pieces some years ago by jotting down some of Y.T.’s better army memories, it bothers him sometimes to think that he hasn’t presented that other seamy side very much too!

Sure, a few years turned out to seem like quite a while, and all the memories of those days keep coming back, and it seems like some kind of neglect that he hasn’t mentioned the bad times.

Mebbe many (if not most) war happenings should be forgotten. I mean the evil ones where sane people are called on to do terrible things to each other! But we all know that any record of the “human” approach should always be remembered.

It may appear that Y.T. thinks he has a kind of edge on these “human” actions we people make, but that is not right. He knows that these things have happened many times before, were never told about, and that hopefully all of us will experience them again many times in the future.

Also, he is afraid that we all have the capacity

Biggar and District Credit Union EŽƟĐĞ ŽĨ /ŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ DĞĞƟŶŐ͗

PERDUE INFORMATION MEETING Perdue Rec Complex Tuesday, March 19, 2019 Supper at 6:00 pm, meeting to follow

BIGGAR INFORMATION MEETING Biggar Community Hall Wednesday, March 20, 2019 Supper at 6:00 pm, meeting to follow

LANDIS INFORMATION MEETING Landis Community Complex Thursday, March 21, 2019 Supper at 6:00 pm, meeting to follow

Advance Tickets Only -- Tickets: $5 each.

Please purchase at Biggar, Landis or Perdue Branch

by March 15th

to appear as this other hated person.

It has never been my intention though in recording these memories, to mention these other evil attitudes, so much as it has been to point out how really considerate we all (even the so-called “enemy”) can be concerning our fellow man.

Far, far too often our ideas and impressions about these other types has been confused by propaganda and the resulting opinions of other people, until a lot of us don’t realize just who is who!

Y.T. wasn’t in the Canadian Army very long before he found that this so human “Help thy neighbour” bit was being abused quite a lot right around here!

Another freshly informed fellow walked up and put the arm on me.

“Hey comrade,” he sez.

“My mother has taken ill in Regina and I want to call home. Can you loan me a little change?”

Of course I said okay, and handed him a few quarters.

I saw that same recruit on mess parade the next day, and when I asked how his mother was he didn’t seem to even know me!

End of lesson No. 1!

Some time later, the Private standing next to me exclaimed: “You haven’t been issued a leather jacket yet? Here, it’s kind of cold out. I’ll lend you mine!”

I thanked him gratefully and put on his well-worn jacket.

The next time I saw the guy he was wearing a brand new issue leather smock.

“Oh,” he explained. “The Q.M. [Quartermaster] stores gave me this when I told them I didn’t have any!”

Y.T. kind of respected the fact that the fellow had given him the coat off his back, but he knew Bob Mason that the nice new shiny one should have been his!

End of lesson No.2!

I think that I’ve mentioned this before sometime, but the debacle (I think “debacle” is the right word!) of our 1943 Christmas party in Woodstock, Ontario (On Christmas Day the army officers serve the men!) is sure another distasteful memory of how really abhorrent some Canadian military types could be. Honestly, how anyone could act and think like some of our young Lieutenants did that day, I don’t know!

In contrast the warm joyous memory of the red and green flares shot into the December sky a year later, by our so called “Terrible Enemy” as we celebrated that Holy Day along the Maas River in Holland, will always stay with us!

What I think Y.T. is actually trying to point out is that for all our righteous thinking, we don’t have a have a monopoly on this human approach thing by a darn sight. And, I feel, in the case of war or The Depression, the more affluence we think

Pensive Patio

we have gained, the less considerate we become...

Okay?

It make me feel a little like a plagiarist to mention many of these things, when I know darn well they have been presented many times before, often by people who have felt the effects of them far more that Y.T. ever has! But I can’t forget about a lot of those seemingly unfeeling military things that happened during short service trip.

Like the time Y.T. just stood there and watched as one of our young officers shot a P.O.W.(Prisoner Of War) whose hands were clasped behind his head!

In contrast, years later, I read a few lines from a book by George Vlackburn, “The Guns of Normandy” where, on page 390, he tells about Captain Bill Waddell of the Royals: “I was wounded, captured and lead away, blindfolded, to a small French village. The German doctor who bandaged my head asked if I wanted to go back to Canada. They gave me a white flag and led me out to where I had been wounded ... and I came back.”

“The Quality of Mercy is not strained” – W.S. Being in the military may seem quite an adventure alright, but seeing and hearing of things like those mentioned above make one realize that most of the enemy had much the same feelings as we did!

There were some very dramatic times (Y.T. has mentioned many of them!), humorous times (I still laugh at some), many man-to-man, considerate times (like those mentioned above)...

And some other times that we’d just as soon forget!

Biggar Bowling Scores March 4-7 Monday Mixed: MHS, Brandon Markewich, 231; WHS, Cindy Watson, 224; MHT, Jason Raschke, 587; WHT, Melissa Raschke, 565.

Thursday Afternoon Seniors: MHS, Glen Shockey, 229; WHS, Dianna Meger, 253; MHT, Glen Shockey, 507; WHT, Dianna Meger, 491.

YBC, March 7 Bowlasaurus: BHS, Jakob Thomas, 69; GHS, Ellie Hawes, 72.

Pee Wee: BHS, Josh Heimbecker, 146; GHS, Haydyn Watson, 89; BHD, Dominic Raschke and Josh Heimbecker, 242; GHD, Haydyn Watson, 159.

Bantam: BHS, Sawyer Heimbecker, 120; GHS, Zuri Bailey, 104; BHT,

Sawyer Heimbecker, 310; GHT, Zuri Bailey, 296.

Juniors: BHS, Julian Heimbecker, 216; GHS, Jayla Boobyer, 223; BHT, Julian Heimbecker, 611; GHT, Jayla Boobyer, 547.

Seniors: BHS, Justin Otterson, 175; GHS, Hailey Boobyer, 203; BHT, Justin Otterson, 454; GHT, Cassie Raschke, 595.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Ag the world over

by Calvin Daniels Recently I had an opportunity to sit down over an early morning coffee with Jordan and Jennifer Lindgren who farm in the Norquay area.

Their name may be familiar to some since the couple were finalists for the Saskatchewan Outstanding Young Farmers Award for 2018 ending up with the top placing presented at the Farm Progress Show held in Regina last June.

As such awards often do, it has brought opportunities to the couple, including a chance to spend a couple of weeks in Australia earlier this year where they gave a short series, there were three stops on the itinerary, talking to farmers there about their operation.

At first it might seem that a farm couple from Norquay would have limited insights into agriculture which would transfer to a farmer in Aus-

tralia, but the Lindgrens were quick to point out there are far more similarities than you might expect.

The first is rather obvious once they mentioned it over that coffee, and it is how farmers, no matter where they are, are ultimately reliant on Mother Nature.

It did surprise the Lindgrens that there are areas of Australia where frost is a threat to crops, much as it can be here.

And, in some areas ‘down under’ canola is planted through what is essentially their winter season, so heat units are lower, and that extends the growing season,

making that frost concern more dire.

Less of a surprise was the impact of heat in Australia.

Large chunks of the country are arid, to the point they talked about one area where land is left idle for 18 months just to recharge Calvin Daniels the groundwater allowing farmers to then plant and harvest at least some crop based on insoil moisture.

In another area harvest can be shut down because the temperature soars to 40 degrees Celsius, so there is a ban on operations for fear of starting fires.

Agriculture

But the similarities go beyond keeping one eye on the sky, and tuning into the weather forecast daily.

The Lindgrens note much as here, farmers in Australia face issues when it comes to find workers, with a minimum wage they noted at $20/hour, and competition from the mining sector.

Increasingly, work on a farm is a high tech job, needing workers with skills that go well beyond the ability to drive a tractor. That is a situation which is not isolated to a single country or region.

While on the larger scale countries compete for markets when it comes to exporting farm production, at the farm level there is no doubt much producers can share in terms of information which cuts across international borders.

That commonality is something that producers should not forget.

Randy Weekes, MLA Biggar - Sask Valley Constituency Office 106- 3rd Ave. West, Box 1413 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

Toll Free: 1-877-948-4880 Phone: 1-306-948-4880 Fax: 1-306-948-4882

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THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Baseball needs a jolt — and soon Baseball — the national pastime. Emphasis on the ‘past’?

Say it ain’t so.

It’s been a foregone conclusion for the past couple of decades that pro football has zoomed past baseball as the favourite sport of North Americans, but lately, baseball is really taking it in the teeth in the court of public opinion.

Games are lasting far too long for today’s fan, who lives for immediacy and fast-paced action.

Pitching change after pitching change, often after the guy on the mound has faced only one hitter. “A one-batter specialist,� he’s called.

Too many strikeouts, as pitchers are becoming dominant and batters are more interested in — or forced to — swinging for the fences because defensive shifts have become the norm in major league parks. It’s all about “launch angle.� Tony Gwynn and Ted Williams wouldn’t approve. Pete Rose would bet it’s bad for the game.

An online report from the CBC’s the Buzzer said it best: “Baseball is

now an extreme power game where hitters swing (and miss) from the heels against an endless string of flamethrowing relievers. When they make contact, the ball often lands in the teeth of a defensive shift.

The pitching changes are endless. The ball is in play less than ever.

Entertainment alternatives are everywhere.

Sure, the cash is still rolling in. But you can’t just count on fans sticking with baseball forever.�

Forbes Magazine reports Major League Baseball attendance dropped below 70 million in 2018 for the first time in 15 years.

If that’s not enough to make Commissioner Rob Manfred and his owner bosses stand up and pay attention, what will?

Money talks, of course.

Perhaps when gate, TV and merchandise revenues start to dip, the powers-that-be will take some significant steps to create more action during a nine-inning game.

Broadcaster Bob Costas, whose first sporting love is baseball, said in a recent New Yorker

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It’s not supposed to have Lakers in part to jumpstart his a letharcareer in gic pace, Hollywood. and that’s Well, looks what Manlike this fred and year he’ll be company free to work and the on movies Players starting in AssoApril.â€? ciation, • Colin if they’re Jost of enlightSaturday ened Night Live’s about it, Weekend have to Update: grapple “Bryce with.â€?

Harper PreBruce Penton has signed venting a 13-year, scoring $330 milis becomlion contract with the ing the way to win in all Philadelphia Phillies. sports. Defence wins in Finally, answering the the NFL. Coaches in the question, ‘How much NHL use neutral-zone would someone have to traps to stifle an oppopay you to live in Philanent’s offensive efforts. delphia?’�

In baseball, overpower• Headline at SportsPicking pitching and defenle.com: “Report: Man sive shifts are taking agrees to live in Philadelover. Boring is winning out. Fans are zoning out. phia for $330 million.â€?

Big changes are needed, • Patti Dawn Swansson in the River City or what used to be the Renegade, on Jays’ prosnational pastime will pect Vladimir Guerbecome more like naprero Jr.: “Apparently time.

Penton on sports

there’s 250 pounds of him, and 200 of it must be in the butt and thighs.

His backside is wider than a hay wagon.â€? • Norman Chad of the Washington Post, who evidently is not a fan of The Athletic: “Cardinals’ Paul Goldschmidt ran out of toothpaste this morning, so he borrowed a Crest tube from his son. This was first reported by @TheAthletic.â€? • Chad again, on champion bowler Jason Belmonte, who bowls using two hands: “It’s as revolutionary as if Picasso painted with the brush between his teeth.â€? • Brad Rock of the Deseret News: “Patriots owner Robert Kraft pleaded not guilty to charges of soliciting a prostitute. But he did plead guilty to wearing a coloured shirt with a white collar 30 years after they went out of style.â€? • RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Eight Portland Trailblazers got stuck in an elevator during a recent road trip to Boston. During the 30 minutes they were trapped,

they still outscored the Celtics.â€? • Currie again: “At last count, an Indiana man estimates he has watched 26,261 layers of paint dry on his Guinness World Record giant painted baseball. ‘We know how you feel,’ said Knicks fans.â€? • A groaner from the punny Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: â€?Atlanta Hawks rookie Trae Young drew his second technical foul of the game — and an automatic ejection — because he stared down the Bulls’ Kris Dunn. With apologies to Led Zeppelin, he was buying a stareway to heavin’.â€? • How bad is the world, asks Dwight Perry? “Crime’s so bad,â€? Louisiana Senator John Kennedy told the Gridiron Club dinner audience in D.C., “we had a Super Bowl stolen from us.â€?

Added comedian Argus Hamilton: “It’s so bad in Venezuela, if you throw a dog a bone he has to signal for a fair catch.â€? • Care to comment?

E-mail brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca.

Senior Blazer Basketball Summary Senior Boys This past Saturday March 9 the Blazer Senior Boys traveled to Gull Lake for Conference basketball play.

The Boys played the Shaunavon Shadows in their first game and came away with the victory. Best Stat lines for the Blazers were Junel Villanueva with 16 points and six assists, Ethan Massie with 14 points and 12 rebounds and Andon Hawkins with 8 points and 12 rebounds.

This win qualified them for Regional play the next weekend. In the next game the boys played hard against a very tough LCBI Bison team from Outlook and couldn’t come away with the victory. Best stat lines for the Blazers were Henrick with 14 points and 2 assists, Junel with 11 points and Darian with 10 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists.

Good luck to the Blazer Senior Boys who head off to Regina on Friday for Regional play.

Senior Girls The senior girls’ team hosted Conference playoffs Saturday, March 9.

They started the day playing off against Asquith,

who is ranked fifth in the province. Our girls stayed focused on the court driving from the side when there was an opening to be had and taking outside shots when Asquith plugged the middle. Unfortunately, neither type of shot was falling.

Our top scorer for the game was Grade 12, Tacy Bartusek, who, in addition to some layups and a free throw, hit two 3 pointers in her final high school game.

Second to her was another Grade 12, Savana Ellis, who started the game with two free throws and drove for some layups midgame. We were unable to compete with Asquith’s skill level and deep bench, but the girls were pleased with their play in this final game of the season.

Blazer Siena Ellis fights for the ball during Conference play, Saturday at Biggar Central School. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

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Tacy Bartusek goes through two defenders for a layup, March 9 as BCS hosted Conference play. The Blazers had their season come to an end. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

New art in the Biggar and District Credit Union

Commissions awarded at Acacia No. 3, O.E.S., pictured left to right: Marion Kelly, Grand Martha presented at the February 19 meeting, on behalf of Worthy Grand Matron and Grand Chapter of Saskatchewan, two-year commissions to Robin Isabelle, Grand Representative of Manitoba in Saskatchewan and Urla Tyler, Grand Representative of Massachusetts in Saskatchewan; Bev Otsuka, PGM, Worthy Matron of Acacia.

(Submitted photo, Elizabeth McMahon)

The Biggar Art Group is proud to announce that Michaela Hoppe’s art will be featured on the walls of the halls in our credit union. Michaela is a local girl, artist, mother, wife and actress. Please take the time to view the art of this exceptional local woman! (Photo

by Ann Weekes)

Canada And Saskatchewan support highway improvements Investing in modern transportation infrastructure is critical to connecting communities, helping businesses move their goods to customer markets, and building a strong economy for all Canadians.

Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Crown Investments Minister and Prince Albert Carlton MLA Joe Hargrave on behalf of Highways and Infrastructure Minister Lori Carr, announced funding for major highway improvements in Saskatchewan, March 11.

Approximately 259 kilometres of highway will be

improved through this project, which includes work along 15 different stretches of highways 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14, 16, 33 and 39. Once complete, these vital upgrades will help keep Saskatchewan drivers safe, improve traffic flow and boost trade to support our economy.

The Government of Canada is providing $40.2 million through the New Building Canada Fund and the Government of Saskatchewan is contributing $41.5 million. “With investments like these, our government is creating safer, and more fluid travel for people who travel on Saskatche-

wan’s highway network,� said Jordan. “This work will help local businesses compete, promote a higher quality of life for residents and support the long-term economic prosperity of this province.� “Since 2008, our government has made highways and transportation infrastructure a priority through record investments and safety improvements,� Hargrave said. “As a province that is land-locked, we continue to invest to support our economic competitiveness and to improve the quality of life and safety for our people.�

Southeast Asia Trade Mission to promote 4BTLBUDIFXBO T BHSJ GPPE TUSFOHUIT Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison will showcase Saskatchewan’s dynamic agri-food industry and associated trade and investment opportunities while strengthening existing relationships during a mission to Southeast Asia this week.

Harrison left Friday for a six-day trade mission (March 10-15) to Singapore and the Philippines (Manila). He will meet with a number of food processing and agriculture companies in both countries and encourage them to purchase additional agricultural products from Saskatchewan suppliers while strengthening existing trade ties. “Saskatchewan has what the world, and particularly Southeast Asia, needs,

‘food, fuel and fertilizer’,�

Harrison said. Saskatchewan is a world leading producer of sustainable food, fuel and fertilizer, which gives us the unique ability to work with South East Asia to enhance its food and energy security.�

The minister will use this mission to promote the new trade opportunities with Saskatchewan and Canada that the recently signed Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTTP) affords Asian nations. He will also showcase Saskatchewan’s leadership in agricultural biotechnology, life sciences and profile the province’s strong ties through immigration with the Philippines, and

encourage companies based in Singapore and the Philippines to invest in Saskatchewan. “More than 31,000 newcomers from the Philippines have made Saskatchewan their new home in the last decade,�

Harrison said. “I firmly believe that there is huge opportunity for increased trade between our province and the Philippines.

Historically, significant trade opportunities have followed such substantial population shifts.�

Saskatchewan exported $7.9 billion worth of goods and services to Asia in 2017, including $1.2 billion to Singapore, the Philippines and the other member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Your local news

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Prairie Malt

Cargill Cares Council is pleased to support different programs focusing on education, food and security and environmental development within our community.

We are now taking applications for donation requests.

The application deadline is March 22, 2019.

Application forms are available from the Prairie Malt Administration Office, Gate 1 Please contact Nicole Eaton at 306-948-1607 if you require further information.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Nats News!

by Paula Shortt Tanner Braun is 21-years-old and he represented the Nationals under the #24 jersey this past season.

He grew up in Rosetown and starting skating when he was around 5 or 6 but he didn’t go straight into hockey. He did Can-Skate for a bit. “Mom still has pictures of us as Purple People Eaters. It’s pretty embarrassing.�

He joined the Rosetown minor hockey league when he was 7 or 8 and recalls that rather than any specific motivation to play, it was more a matter of hockey being what a group of him and his peers decided they wanted to do, so they went out and did it.

His siblings also played hockey, and while his older brother stuck with it, his younger sister changed over to dance after a bit.

Tanner is another player who’s favourite thing about hockey is the brotherhood bond between hockey players. “Being with the guys in the dressing room for sure is a good part. The guys are really good and they are easy to get along with. And after [the games] the after-parties and stuff like that, now that we are a little older ‌ just being out with the guys.â€?

Tanner has a bit of a personal beef with some of the newer rules of hockey. He understands why they are required

and being brought in but sometimes they can mess with your game. Especially at the minor league level when there can be such disparity between individual’s in body heights. “Like the ‘Hits to the head’ and stuff like that.

It’s understandable why they are putting them in, but the first year they were in, I was a lot taller than everybody and what’s what I got ALL my penalties for. I couldn’t even hit anyone because I was getting all ‘Hit to the Head’ penalties. It [the height variance] made a huge difference.�

Tanner started playing in Rosetown and then went on to play for the West Central Wheat Kings in the AA league.

Last year he played Junior B league in Delisle, and this year is his first year (of hopefully many) with the Biggar Nationals.

He grew up playing hockey with the [the team manager] Chad’s sons. One was a year younger and the other was a year older, so the age groupings in league meant he played alternating years with them.

Chad had attempted to recruit Tanner the year previous, but Tanner was living in the city and chose to play for Delisle that year instead.

Now that he is back home on the farm (halfway between Rosetown and Biggar) he was happy to accept the invitation to play for the Nationals this year.

Farm life keeps Tanner pretty busy and apparently chasing after cows is a good way to get your cardio workout. He also works as a mechanic in Rosetown so he keeps in pretty good shape from that as well as it’s a pretty physical job. During the off-season, Tanner also enjoys playing slopitch and participating in tournaments.

If you want to be a good player or althete, Tanner is of the opinion that as long as you are in good shape and are good with meeting new people and adapting, you’ll do well.

Tanner himself was new to the team this year. He did know one of the guys on the team from before he joined, and he knew a couple of the other new guys that were coming in to play, but he quickly

bonded with the other players and has enjoyed the season. It didn’t hurt that according to Tanner, “We have a pretty decent team this year too, so it’s been good.�

He plays a forward for the Nationals, usually left wing. Although Tanner did play defense when he was in Bantam AA, he prefers playing forwards. “You are in the play more. I’m a more physical player so I like being right in the play.�

When it comes to the fans, Tanner was a little bit in awe of the support (both in presence and

financially) that the Biggar team receives from the community here. “I played in Rosetown for three years. Two years for the senior team ‌ we had a lot of hometown people there but there was not near as big of crowds as we have here. The crowds and the fans here are really good. And they are good for coming out and supporting everybody. It is amazing coming here and hearing how much the 50/50s are worth during games and things like that, when back in Rosetown they weren’t even close to that.â€?

Tanner is hoping to be part of the Nationals again next year as well. “I hope so! If they want me back, I’d definitely come play.�

Well Tanner, we also hope to see you again next year.

Until next time ‌ Keep it between the posts!

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Vaccination prevents spread of measles

Ensure your immunizations are up-to-date

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging Saskatchewan residents to ensure their measles immunizations are up-to-

Biggar hosts 5-Pin Provincials

Biggar 5 Pin Bowling Association hosted the Provincial HI-LO Doubles on March 9. Teams came to participate from Regina, Melville, Ponteix, Nipawin, Moose Jaw, Melfort, Humboldt, Swift Current, Yorkton, Perdue, Rosetown, Saskatoon, Kindersley, Lashburn, Foam Lake, and Biggar. Marilyn Miller was the acting S5PBA official at the event.

Let to right: third place, Burnie Norman, Anne Arnason (Foam Lake), first, Tamara Christensen, Rick Cavdill (Regina), second, Theresa Ostlund, Barb Cheveldae (Melville), with S5PBA official Marilyn Miller. (Submitted Photo)

date.

There are currently no confirmed cases of measles in Saskatchewan; however, vaccinations are key to staying healthy and preventing the spread of the disease. “Because measles is a serious, infectious illness, we are urging all residents to ensure that their immunization and their children’s immunizations are up-todate,� Saskatchewan’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said. “We are aware of measles cases in Canada and the U.S., and we are monitoring the situation here closely. Vaccines are safe and have saved more lives in Canada in the last 60 years than any other medical intervention.�

The measles vaccination is routinely given as MMRV vaccination to all children at 12 and 18 months of age in Saskatchewan. All children in Saskatchewan starting school should have received two doses of a measles containing vaccine - MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella).

People born in 1970 or later are also eligible for MMR if they have not received two doses of a measles vaccine in the past. Individuals travelling with infants six-11 months of age outside of North America and the Caribbean should contact their local public health office to inquire if they need a vaccination against measles. Regardless of travel plans, all Saskatchewan residents age one year and older should ensure they are up-to-date on their mea-

sles vaccinations.

Measles cases are rare in Canada, but do occur typically as a result of international travel. Currently there are measles cases reported in British Columbia and in the United States. The last reported case of measles in Saskatchewan was in 2014.

Measles is a viral infection that is airborne and can spread easily from person to person, even without direct contact.

People who have contracted measles usually have the following symptoms: • fever (38.3 C or greater); • cough; • spots in the mouth appearing 1-2 days before the rash; • a red blotchy rash appearing on days 3-5 and usually lasting for 4-7 days; • runny nose; and • redness of the eyes and inner eyelids and/or light sensitivity.

Symptoms usually occur within eight to 12 days after exposure, but this timeframe can range from seven to 21 days post-exposure. Measles is highly contagious from about four days before the appearance of the rash until about four days after.

If a person develops the symptoms listed above, they should call ahead before going to see their physician to ensure they are seen in a manner that minimizes exposure to others in the waiting area.

For more information on immunizations, residents can contact their local public health office.

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

tth he

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11

MPLOYMENT

OPPORTUNITY

Biggar United Church is looking to hire an occasional pianist. Mentoring available, paid position. Contact Doreen Dubreuil for more info, 306948-2825.

8c3 Biggar United Church has the position of choir leader available. Interested person(s), please contact church office at 306-9482208 for info and a contact person.

8c3

Coming

INVITATIONS

ANNOUNCEMENT

CALL FOR

‘MOM’ SUBMISSIONS

for “Mothers FRIDAYS, STARTING MARCH 15‌ Last five Fridays in Lent, Interdenominational Lent services, 12:05 p.m. followed by lunch at Biggar New Horizons. Sponsored by Biggar and District Ministerial.

Everyone welcome.

10c6 6 BIG RIVER FISH DERBY on Cowan Lake. SATURDAY, MARCH ARCH 23, 2019 For info visit: www.bigriver.ca or email: maisie@sasktel.net To register krienkemaisie@sasktel.net all: 306-469-7990. call:

Two part-time me

SEASONAL WAREHOUSE HOUSE AND PLANT HELPER ER positions available able Job Requirements: Ë? High school diploma or equivalent Ë? Valid driver’s license Ë? Must complete inhouse WHMIS, TDG and forklift training Ë? Safety Sensitive Position - Drug and Alcohol testing requires Duties: Ë? Coordinate receiving, storing and shipment of bulk and packaged products Ë? Manage inventory and may handle blending of fertilizer Ë? Responsible for loading product for customers Ë? Ensures all paperwork is complete for product entering and leaving warehouse Ë? Maintain facility yard, equipment and cleanliness of warehouse Ë? Follow EH&S guidelines, report incidents and/or spills Ë? Present positive image of Nutien to customers Ë? Other duties as assigned Please email resume to gerald.bell@nutrien.com

CARD OF THANKS

COMING EVENTS

THANK YOU to all the local businesses who donated prizes to our Provincial Hi-Lo Doubles Tournament, Sheila’s Kitchen of Rosetown for catering, Westwinds Motor Hotel and Biggar Museum & Gallery for their hospitality, and Sask.

Lotteries for their continued support. ‌ Biggar Bowl

MONDAY, MARCH 25‌ The Annual Meeting of the Biggar & District Community Foundation, 5:30 p.m. at the Biggar Town Office. The report of the auditor will be presented and remarks from the Board of Directors.

All interested persons are invited to attend.

A selection of MEMORIAL VERSES is available for you to choose from in memory of your loved one(s)‌ @ The Biggar Independent.

Stop in at 122 Main St., Biggar

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, FRIDAY, MARCH 29, SATURDAY, MARCH 30: 7:30 p.m.; and SUNDAY, MARCH 31: 31: 2:00 p.m.: New Creation Co Community om mm mun un niit itty y Players of Biggar presents p es pr esen ents en nts ts their the heir hei ir annual ann nnu ua al musical produc production uc ctiion o of of “M ““Mamma Ma am mma ma Mia�, Mia�

Mia ia�, ia Reserved seating on sale Reserv ved ssea ea e attiing ng ttickets ick ic kets ke ts o n s sa alle e a att T Th he Bi B igg ggar ar IIndependent, ndep nd epen epe ende d ntt, p ph hone one 30 on 306 6The Biggar phone 30694 9 948-3344, 488-33 3344 44, $2 $ $20/person, 20/ 0/p 0 /p pe e ers rso rs on, on n, vi visa/Mastercard isa sa/M /Mastercard ac cc ce ep ptted ed. Ma M am mm ma Mia is presented accepted.

Mamma th through hro rou ug gh sp sspecial pecia pec ial arrangements with Music Mu usi sic ic Th Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI, 423 West 55th Street, New York, NY 10019; Ph: 212www.

541-4684; Fax: 212-397-4684; www MTIShows.com.

5c7 SATURDAY, MA MARCH 30: MUNCHIES before tthe MUSICAL‌ appetizers, wine and fellowship, 5:30 to 7 p.m. at St. Gabriel Church in the Katimavik. Tickets $20; RSVP by March 10 to Peggy, 306948-5231 or rplhoir@sasktel.net. Open to everyone. Come for the FUN. 7c4 FRIDAY, APRIL 12: Biggar & District Arts Council presents 40th season‌ “James Hill & Anne Janelleâ€?, 7:30 p.m. at The Majestic Theatre, Biggar. Adults/ Seniors $30 (advance $25); Students, 13 and older, $15 (advance $12); children 12 and under, $5. Advance tickets available at de Moissac Jewellers, Biggar, 306-948-2452 or online www.ticketpro. ca 10c6 Attend the Draggins Car Show April 19 and 20 at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon, headlining the 2018 Detroit Ridler Award winner. See our website; Draggins.com

AUCTIONS 6 PARCELS OF FARMLAND Pleasantdale, SK. Ritchie Bros.

Auctioneers Unreserved Auction, April 8 in Saskatoon.

959+/- Title Acres, Unquantified gravel reserves.

Ed Truelove: 306.441.0525; Brokerage: Ritchie Bros. Real Estate Services Ltd.; rbauction.com/ realestate.

F A B R I C AT I O N FACILITY - Battleford, SK. Ritchie Bros.

Auctioneers Unreserved Auction, April 8 in Saskatoon.

11.1+/- Title Acres, 43,821+/- Sq Ft Fabrication Facility. Ed Truelove: 306.441.0525; Brokerage: Ritchie Bros. Real Estate Services Ltd.; rbauction.com/ realestate.

of the Year�

now being accepted ‘Mothers of the Year TEA’ will be held TUESDAY, MAY

7TH

‌submit your favourite Mom letter, ‌su around 150 words or less, stating what makes this lady so special. stat submissions (MOMS) will be honoured.

ALL L su Drop off letters to the Prairie Branches office, Wood Centre, 106 - 6th Ave. East, Nova W Box 11690, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 or Biggar IIndependent, 122 Main Street, Box 4 40, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

DEADLIN EADLINE: APRIL 15, 2019 ‌A WONDERF WONDERFUL WAY TO HONOUR MOM AND SUPPORT PRAIRIE BRANCHES WITH THEIR ANNUAL REC RECOGNITION & FUNDRAISER. *NOTE‌mothers ffrom various communities, service clubs and individuals in will all come together to be honoure honoured on the day of the tea.

TEND ENDERS The Village of Perdue is accepting tenders 29 2019 on the until noon, March 29, property legally described as Lot 1, Block 10 Plan 72S21314 (the “Perdue 5 Star�) which is being sold on an “as is where is� basis.

Interested parties must use the approved Tender Form available at the Village office (1103-9th Street, Perdue, SK) which sets out the conditions of sale and include a certified cheque for 5% of the purchase price. The highest tender, or any tender, not necessarily accepted.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements.

For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

COLORADO BLUE SPRUCE: $1.49/ each for a box of 180 ($268.20).

Also full range of tree, shrub and berry seedlings for shelterbelts.. Free shipping. Growth guarantee. 1-844873-3700 or TreeTime.ca.

WANTED WANTED: OLD TUBE AUDIO EQUIPMENT. 40 years or older.

Amplifiers, Stereo, Recording and Theatre Sound Equipment. Hammond Organs, any condition. CALL Toll-Free 1-800947-0393

SEED & FEED NORTH EAST PRAIRIE GRAIN INC. BUYING: Feed Barley, Soybeans, Heated Canola, Wheat, Feed Oats.

OFFERING: Top Prices, On Farm Pickup & Prompt Payment! CALL: 1-306-873-3551, WEBSITE: neprairiegrain.com

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

12 -THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

SEED & FEED

PEDIGREED SEED

for SPRING 2019 PEAS: CDC Inca CDC Greenwater (green) LENTILS: CDC Proclaim CL (red) CDC Impulse CL (red) CDC Greenstar (large green) CDC Marble (french green) CDC Peridot CL (french green) WHEAT: AAC Brandon Carberry AC Andrew DURAM: AA Cabri CDC Preision CANARY SEED: CDC Bastia

NAKONECHNY SEEDS Ruthilda, SK

(306) 932-4409 Where Quality Comes First!

SEED & FEED HEATED CANOLA WANTED!! *5((1 &$12/$ 635,1* 7+5(6+(' '$0$*(' &$12/$ FEED OATS WANTED!! %$5/(< 2$76 :+7 /,*+7 25 728*+ 635,1* 7+5(6+(' HEATED FLAX WANTED!! +($7(' 3($6 +($7(' /(17,/6 "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

LAND FOR SALE

Western Commodities

Selling your land?

Call Justin Yin! â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Farmland Marketing Specialist Powerful multiple marketing networks Powerful English & Chinese websites Powerful Electronic Marketing tools Featured on CTV / Global TV Featured in The Globe & Mail / The Western Producer â&#x20AC;˘ First person to create use his own computer program to analysis land value â&#x20AC;˘ First person to use a RV trailer as the mobile office â&#x20AC;˘ Hundreds of listings have been sold

A TOTAL OF 602 QUARTER SECTIONS SOLD ACROSS SASKATCHEWAN RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca

877-695-6461 Visit our website @ www.westerncommodities.ca

312 - 8th Ave.W. and corner of Quebec St., Biggar

Sunday Worship â&#x20AC;˘ 10:50 a.m.

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sunday School during service Pastor Doug Motz, Church office phone, 306-948-3424

Cell: 306-2301588 Office: 306-3618926 Fax: 306-6651443 Email: justin.yin.ca@gmail.com

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT.

BIGGAR ASSOCIATED GOSPEL CHURCH

From FOR SALE to SOLD

FARMLAND WANTED

GREAT References Available

Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM

LAND FOR SALE

BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH

907 Quebec St./corner Turnbull Ave., Biggar

4VOEBZ 8PSTIJQ 4FSWJDF t B N

FOR RENT Advertise your item in 85 Saskatchewan newspapers.

One call covers the entire province.

Biggar Independent (306) 948-3344

Charter/ Sherwood Apartments 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom Heat and water supplied, wired for cableTV and satellite systems, laundr y facilities, appliances, some suites with dishwasher s, air conditioning, parking with plug-ins.

Small pets now welcome with a pet deposit.

For more information call: Nicole or Curtis 306-948-9115 302 - 8th Ave. W. Biggar

SERVICES

REV. SHARON FERGUSON-HOOD

Church office phone, 306-948-2280

If YOU areâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;˘ NEW to our communities of Biggar/Landis/Perdue â&#x20AC;˘ Have a new baby Call WELCOME

WAGON at 306-948-3837

Sheila Itterman We have gifts and information www. welcomewagon.ca

PRESBYTERIANS, ANGLICANS AND LUTHERANS (PALS)

@ REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH, 319 - 7 AVE. E, BIGGAR TH

MARCH 8034)*1 t " .

For more information/pastoral services, phone 306-948-3731 or Pastor Sarah Mowatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cell, 306-951-7286

ST. GABRIEL ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 109 - 7th Ave.W, Biggar

Father Edward Gibney

Parish Phone: 306-948-3330 Biggar & District ARTS Council are available for bar tending services at your functions/ events. Contact Denise @ 306948-2452

For ALL your stamp DEADLINE for classifieds, news and advertisements isâ&#x20AC;Ś MONDAY â&#x20AC;˘ 5 P.M.

3&'3&4).&/54 "/% '&--084)*1 "'5&3 4&37*$&

needsâ&#x20AC;Ś

SUNDAY MASS TIME s A M

Sunday School during service

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH, Landis 35.$!9 -!33 4)-% s A M

+&464 .*3"$-& $364"%& */5&3/"5*0/"- .*/*453: &7&3: 46/%": 4&37*$& t " . 1 . .*%8&&, 4&37*$& t 8&%/&4%":4 1 .

07&3/*()5 13":&3 t '3*%":4 1 . " .

207 MAIN STREET, BIGGAR

CONTACT RAMIL, MARILYN OR ORLANDO, 306-948-2023 OR 306-951-0095 OR 306-948-3021

Seventh-Day Adventist Church

call or stop in @ The Independent, 122 Main St., Biggar

306-948-3344

SATURDAY SERVICES

Bible Studyâ&#x20AC;Ś ď&#x2122;&#x201E;ď&#x2122;&#x192; a.m.

Church Serviceâ&#x20AC;Śď&#x2122;&#x201E;ď&#x2122;&#x201E; a.m. ď&#x2122;&#x2020;ď&#x2122;&#x2026;ď&#x2122;&#x192; - ď&#x2122;&#x2030;th Avenue East, Biggar

Contact: ď&#x2122;&#x2020;ď&#x2122;&#x192;ď&#x2122;&#x2030;-ď&#x2122;&#x152;ď&#x2122;&#x2021;ď&#x2122;&#x2039;-ď&#x2122;&#x2026;ď&#x2122;&#x2021;ď&#x2122;&#x2039;ď&#x2122;&#x201E; www.amazingfacts.org

BOX 40, BIGGAR, SK S0K 0M0

Phone: 306-948-3344; Fax: 306-948-2133 Email: tip@sasktel.net www.biggarindependent.ca CLASSIFIED AD RATES Deadline - Monday at 5 p.m.

25 words or less ...... $15.00 per week over 25 words ...... 25¢/word If The Independent P.O. Box Number is used add $3.00 PLEASE READ YOUR AD -- Advertisers should read their advertisement the FIRST ISSUE it APPEARS and report any errors in time for the next insertion.

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Price is determined on size BOLD type ...................................$ 2.00 Italic type .......................................$ 2.00 Administration Charges..............$ 5.00

CONDITIONS OF ADVERTISING ACCEPTANCE All advertising subject to publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s approval. It is agreed by The Independent and any advertiser using or requesting space that the publisher shall not be held liable for damages in event of non-insertion of or errors in advertisements. In excess of or beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by the non-insertion, or by that portion of the advertisement in which the error or non-insertion occurred whether such error or noninsertion is due to the negligence of its servants or otherwise.

All advertisers must assume responsibility for errors in any advertisement which is supplied to The Independent in handwritten form or given over the phone.

r "-- $-"44*'*&%4 .645 #& 13&1"*% r

NO REFUND on classifieds. Times to run must be stated at First Insertion. Enclose cheque, money order, Visa, MasterCard for your classified.

Other Advertising Rates Available upon Request.

The BIGGAR INDEPENDENT accepts advertisements in good faith. We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally.

Publication by this newspaper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or service offered.

SUBSCRIPTION RATESâ&#x20AC;Śper year ONLINEâ&#x20AC;Ś

$35.00 + $1.75 gst = $36.75 Inside 40-mile Radiusâ&#x20AC;Ś

$40.00 + $2.00 gst = $42.00 Outside 40-mile Radiusâ&#x20AC;Ś

$45.00 + $2.25 gst = $47.25

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 13

DENTAL ROOFING

ELECTRICAL

115 - 1st Avenue West Rosetown, Sask.

MADGE ROOFING INC.

BIGGAR ELECTRICAL & REFRIGERATION SERVICES Commercial and Industrial Electrical Wiring

PHILLIPS ELECTRIC s 2ESIDENCE s #OMMERCIAL 7IRING &OR FREE ESTIMATES

call…

306-480-6822

Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan

306-948-5291

Goldburg Electric Ltd. • Residential • Commercial Contact Matt Craig

#ELL 306-221-6888 Store: 306-948-1773

THIS SPACE

www.madgesaskroofing.com Biggar, Sask.

PLUMBING & HEATING

OFFICE HOURS - together with -

Co-Ed Fitness Centre

Monday to Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Phone:306.882.2123 New Patients Welcome!

Healthy Lifestyle Weight Loss 30-minute Circuit Personal Training Fitness Classes …owned and operated

by Brett Barber

102 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

306.948.2208 OPTOMETRISTS

Dr. Kirk Ewen Dr. Michelle Skoretz Doctors of Optometry

IN THIS DIRECTORY IS

BIGGAR DENTAL CLINIC 104 - 6 Ave. East, Biggar, Sask.

Southeast entrance of Nova Wood Bldg.

Hours…

Monday - Thursday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. th

306-948-3408

AVAILABLE FOR ONLY

$161.20 PLUS GST… ONE COLUMN X

FOR

26-WEEK

Call

306.948.3344

EAVESTROUGHING Danny Pickett Travis Poletz 306-230-4535 306-948-6570 saskwestconstruction@outlook.com

FREE ESTIMATES ► Eavestrough ► Soffit/Fascia ► Siding ► All other Exterior needs....

PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL

For all your home, business and rural needs Owners/Operators • Dallas Young • Claude Young

In BIGGAR

Every Tuesday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

LEGAL SERVICES

Landis Of¿ce Hours:

304 Main St., Biggar Phone: 306-948-2204 Toll Free: 1-855-948-2204

100 - 2nd Ave. W., Landis Phone: 306-658-2044 Toll Free: 1-855-658-2044

Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Mon., Tues., & Fri., 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Wed., 10 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Thurs., CLOSED

Website: www.biggarinsurance.ca Website: www.landisinsurance.ca Email: biggar@biggarinsurance.ca

“We’ll getcha covered”

If you DO NOT receive your Independent in a timely manner, please call your local post office or Canada Post @ 1-866-607-6301

rod.campbell@sasktel.net

117 - 3rd Ave. W.,

(New Horizons Bldg) Biggar

201B - 2nd Ave. West P. O. Box 1480 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

Ph: 306-948-5133

RED APPLE

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES “Administrative Services to

Meet Your Business Needs” ~ One time projects or long term service

For a FREE consultation, call

PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Barristers & Solicitors

For appointments…

1-855-651-3311

Stuart A. Busse, QC Larry A. Kirk, LL.B.

Use all modes of advertising…

Biggar, Sask.

306-948-3389

302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff

www.redappleadmin.ca www.facebook.com/ redappleadmin

BUSSE LAW

Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main St., Biggar

…call Independent

306-948-3346

306-948-3344

…serving your community since 1972

INVESTMENTS

223 Main Street Biggar Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO

306-948-2183 Email: hrbbiggar@sasktelnet

For all your investment needs, Visit…

INSURANCE

Biggar Of¿ce Hours…

Ph: 306-948-4430 or 306-948-4460

Cheryl Irvine @

Peszko &Watson is a full service law office that practices…

Box 277, Perdue, SK S0K 3C0

ÿ Auto & Home Insurance ÿ Farm & Commercial Insurance ÿ Health & Travel Insurance ÿ Life Insurance & Investments ÿ Farm Succession & Estate Planning ÿ Notary Publics

SEEKIN G NE CLIENT W CAMPBELL S ACCOUNTING SERVICES • Income Tax Returns • Bookkeeping • Payroll • Financial Statements

306-948-7402

2 INCHES

PREPAID COMMITMENT (regular price is $20.16 per week = $524.16 plus gst)

306-951-8004

“Setting a Higher Standard” ∆New Construction ∆Re-roofs ∆Torch-on ∆Tile ∆Metal ∆Asphalt ∆All repairs ∆Shakes ∆Inspections NOW DOING ∆ Eavestroughing ∆ Downspouts ∆ Soffit & Facia We offer 10 Year Workmanship Warranty and Liability/Torch On Insurance Excellent Local References For a FREE estimate please call… 306-948-5453

306-717-2818

Menno:

ROSETOWN DENTAL

HEALTH/WELLNESS

ACCOUNTING

Dean McCallum, CFP, CIM, FCSI

Lyndsey Poole

Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

Mutual Fund Investment Specialist, Wealth Consultant Credential Asset Management Inc.

Pamela Eaton Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

Criminal Law Commercial Law Real Estate Law Wills and Estate Law and our lawyers,

Jason Peszko Lisa Watson Logan Marchand look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:

Mutual funds are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc., and mutual funds and other securities are offered through Credential Securities Inc. ®Credential is a registered mark owned

by Credential Financial Inc. and is used under license.

306-948-5352 or 306-244-9865

YOU KNOW what you’re doing…

BUT NO ONE ELSE DOES!!!

PHOTOGRAPHY

ÿ ÿ ÿ ÿ

Located at the Biggar & District Credit Union 302 Main Street, Biggar, SK • 306-948-3352

LACK OF ADVERTISING is like winking at a pretty girl in the dark…

Website: www.hrblock.ca

Photos by Jocelyn

Portraits, Family, Wedding, Sports, Passport & Firearm Photography Biggar, Sask.

www.photosbyjocelyn.com

306-948-7267

CHECK

this week‛s news, classifieds, photos/videos

ONLINE @ biggarindependent.ca

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

SERVICES A Sign of

REAL ESTATE

AUTOMOTIVE

Shoreline Realty

Cari Perih Cell: 306-948-7995

Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

www.SoldbyCari.ca homesforsale@soldbycari.ca

Acres of Expertise.

HEAVY TRUCK Repair AUTO Repair TIRES Repair BOATS & RVs FULL MOBILE MECHANICAL & TIRES SGI Safety INSPECTION

Dave Molberg Farm & Acreage Salesperson (306) 948-4478 dave.molberg@hammondrealty.ca HammondRealty.ca

FOR RENT BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY Housing for families and seniors Rent based on income

Call: 306-948-2101

Fax: 306-237-TROY email: tmay@hotmail.ca Super B outfits hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Rockin D Trucking & Cattle â&#x20AC;¢ Cattle Hauling with 21 ft. gooseneck trailer â&#x20AC;¢ Grain Hauling â&#x20AC;¢ round and large square bale hauling with step-deck or highboy semi-trailers â&#x20AC;¢ also buying and selling straw and forage â&#x20AC;¢ also Machinery Hauling

Dan â&#x20AC;¢ 306-948-7843 Biggar, Sask.

Darren Diehl

306-262-5980 Biggar

COURIER

BIGGAR COURIER

â&#x20AC;¢ Biggar to Saskatoon â&#x20AC;¢ Same day Service â&#x20AC;¢ Monday to Friday â&#x20AC;¢ 24-hour Answering Service

Rolls of Table Paper available at The Independent

-ON &RI s A M P M phone: Chris

306-948-3376

1st Ave. West, Biggar

Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer Open: Mon.-Fri.

Canadian Seed Institute Accredited Pedigree, Commercial & Custom Cleaning FULL line of Cleaning Equipment including Gravity Table

8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat s A M .OON

For all your Cereal and Pulse Cleaning 306- 948-2807 or 948-5609 948-5394

Plant located 8 miles south of Biggar on Hwy #4, ¼ mile west on Triumph Rd.

THE

BIGGAR

INDEPENDENT on

NEWSSTANDS â&#x20AC;¢ Biggar Esso â&#x20AC;¢ Leslieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Drugstore â&#x20AC;¢ Pharmasave â&#x20AC;¢ Quick Stop â&#x20AC;¢ Main Street Market â&#x20AC;¢ Shop Easy Foods â&#x20AC;¢ Weasieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gourmet Blends â&#x20AC;¢ Central Plains Co-op, Perdue â&#x20AC;¢ The Store, Perdue

For FAX service, see us at

The Independent, 122 Main Street, Biggar

306-948-5699

Custom Embroidery Teams, Corporate and Personal Attire Judy Kahovecâ&#x20AC;¦ 306-882-4313, cell 306-831-7935

BRETTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DECORATING & DESIGN

FLOWER SHOP s FLOWERS s CUSTOM WEDDING DECORATING & EVENTS s RENTALSâ&#x20AC;¦ 4ENTS

"OUNCY #ASTLE

Danny Vogelsang

306-222-6081 Landscaping, Snow Removal, Topsoil, Clay, Gravel, Sand Bobcats, Excavator, Gravel Truck Serving Perdue and area for the past 10 years

Biggar, Sask.

Brody Ellis, Sever Ellis, Stetler Heather

306-948-3380 306-948-2234 alloutdrilling@gmail.com

Call today for a FREE estimate!

306-948-9750 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar, Sask. newufitness@sasktel.net /WNED AND OPERATED BY "RETT "ARBER

103 2nd Ave. E., Biggar

Aboriginal Owned t .PCJMF 8FMEJOH 'BCSJDBUJPO t &NFSHODZ 4FSWJDF t 3FQBJST (PU B QSPKFDU JO t 8F DBUFS UP "-- NJOE Give us a call JOEVTUSJFTy GBSNJOH for a quote.

DPNNFSDJBM PJM GJFME JOEVTUSJBM t /08 PGGFSJOH â&#x20AC;¢ CWB 4LJETUFFS 5SBOTQPSU Certified )PU 4IPU 4FSWJDF CALL Chance Parenteau @ 306-948-9465 or Sarah Nagy @ 306-290-9766

SaskTel Mobility Dealer We carry all the Latest Smartphones

306-948-2266 Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

GALLARDO Liner Passenger & Parcel Services

Excellent Quality at a Reasonable Price!

Call: Bill: Dale:

Jerry Muc Phone: 306-948-2958

Your authorized

WYLIE SEED & PROCESSING INC.

s 7OOD METAL PLASTIC SIGNS s 6EHICLE WINDOW GRAPHICS s "ANNERS STICKERS AND -AGNETIC SIGNS

Fax:

Corner of Main Street & 1st Avenue West, Biggar

306.948.2700

~Brian and Cathy Fick~

Cell: 306-948-7524

SERVICE TRUCK FULL MECHANICAL SERVICE

SEED CLEANING

@

Custom Grain and Fertilizer Hauling

306-948-5600

Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial

Office: 306-867-8380 carip@remax.net

TROY MAY, owner/operator

Phoneâ&#x20AC;¦

306-948-3996 Open Monday-Friday

306.237.7671

Box 736, Biggar

701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar

Qualilty!

CLEANING #LIFF &ORSYTH

M & N REPAIR

REALTOR®

HAULING

SERVICES

THUR-O CARPET

317 Main St. - Biggar Depot

YH Truck, Ag & Auto s (EAVY TRUCK PARTS s !GRICULTURE PARTS s !UTOMOTIVE PARTS ACCESSORIES WWW YHTRUCKAGAUTO COM

(WY %AST "IGGAR

306-948-2109 KRF Auto Centre 100% handwash h7HERE WE DO IT ALL FOR YOU v s $ETAILING s Vortex Spray-In Box Liners s Granitex Baked-on Coatings for Decks and Cement Flooring s !UTO !CCESSORIES s 4RAILER 2ENTALS /WNED OPERATED BY +EVIN &ICK

227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar

306-948-1722

BE SEEN in the BUSINESS DIRECTORY CALL

306.948.3344 FOR SPECIAL RATES AND SIZES

PHOTOGRAPHY Macklin to Saskatoon & towns in-between Kindersley to Saskatoon & towns in-between Passenger Cellâ&#x20AC;¦ 306.951.0078 Parcel Cellâ&#x20AC;¦ 306.880.1435 Photos by Pick up & Delivery Bus Depot

Jocelyn

#6 - 3010 Deifenbaker Dr., Saskatoon

Portraits, Family, Weddings & Sports Biggar Photography

Sand &G ravel Biggar, Sask .

www.photosbyjocelyn.com â&#x20AC;¢ trenching

306948-2814 â&#x20AC;¢ trucking â&#x20AC;¢ water & sewer â&#x20AC;¢ sand & gravel â&#x20AC;¢ excavating Office â&#x20AC;¦

SUBSCRIPTION/ RENEWAL TIME!!!

306-948-5455

ADVERTISING

is an investment

in your business.

DEADLINE for ads, classisifeds and news MONDAY - 5 P.M.

Online/Pick-upâ&#x20AC;¦ $36.75 Within 40-mile Radiusâ&#x20AC;¦ $42.00 Outside 40-mile radiusâ&#x20AC;¦ $47.25 The Biggar Independent 122 Main Street Box 40, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 tip@sasktel.net 306-948-3344 Visa/MasterCard accepted

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Anglers reminded of March deadline to remove ice fishing shelters

Nat/Outlaws go down fighting in league play . . . Biggar/Wilkie National/Outlaws Jacob Evanisky is hounded by an Eston Rambler at the Jubilee, March 7. The Hi-Way 14 Hockey League Bantam playoff two-game series didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go the home squadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way as they fell 9-5. March 10 in Eston had the Ramblers taking the series with a 9-6 win for a 18-11 tally. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Tips to help you through tax-filing season (NC) The April 30 deadline to get all your T-4s and T-3s in order is fast approaching.

Here are some tips to help you avoid the headaches and sail through the process with ease: Track your donations.

If you donate to multiple registered charities throughout the year, including Amnesty International, then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re eligible to earn a bit of

cash back on your annual income tax return.

Donating to worthwhile causes, while accruing money in return? Sounds like a win-win. But itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up to you to keep track of which organizations you help fund. An Excel spreadsheet or a simple list on your phone will help you remember.

Keep your receipts safe and easily accessible. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just about tracking

your donations, but you also need the receipts to back up those claims.

Start a tax folder in your desk to safely store paper receipts or an email folder for electronic stubs.

Ask a professional. If your taxes are complicated or you find yourself getting stuck, then donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hesitate to contact an accountant for help. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth the extra cash to avoid making a mistake.

Be on time. You could be dinged if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re late for tax season. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to file early with missed paperwork, than to pay the costs of filing late.

You can always request an adjustment if you discover that something is amiss.

With ice fishing season winding down, anglers are reminded that all fishing shelters south of Highway 16 must be removed

by March 15, and shelters in areas north of Highway 16 must be removed

by March 31.

If shelters are not removed, owners may be prosecuted, and the structure and contents may be moved off the ice and confiscated.

Every year, ice fishing shelters are abandoned on the ice, which can later pose a danger to boaters, water-skiers and others enjoying our lakes. Pieces can also wash up on shore and cause environmental hazards.

Litter must also be removed when ice shel-

ters are taken off the ice.

Structures must be moved to a location where they can be loaded and transported to the individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residence or property.

Ice fishing shelters must have the ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s complete name, address and phone number on the outside in legible letters that are at least 2.5 centimetres high.

Anyone travelling on the ice should take extreme caution. Slush indicates that ice is eroding from above and below at an advanced rate. Changing temperatures can cause thermal cracks and pressure ridges, which are indicators of unsafe conditions.

WATCH for Leslieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Discount Days LESLIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DRUGSTORE

.BJO 4U #JHHBS t

NEW NE EW CREATIO CR COMMUNITY COMMU OMM MMU MU UNIT IITY TY PLA PL PLAYERS LAYE LAY AY Y production oducti tio ofâ&#x20AC;Ś

BIGGAR GAR AR R

MAMMA MIA! MUSIC AND LYRICS BY

BENNY AN NDERSSON NDER NDE DER RS R SSON JĂ&#x2013;RN Ă&#x2013;RN UL LVAEUS VAEU US S BJJĂ&#x2013;

STTIG IG AN NDERSON DER RS SO ON BO OOK OO OK B BY Y CA ATHERINE THERIN NE JO OHNSON HNS SON ORI RIGINALLY R RIG IG GIIN NA ALLY CO ONCEIVED ON NCEIV IVE VE ED D BY

BY JU UDY DY CR RAYMER RA AYMER R MAMMA M AM MM MA M MIA! IA A! W WAS WA A AS S OR ORIGINALLY O RIIG GINALLY LL LY P PRODUCED PR R ROD DUC UC CED E IN ED IN LO ONDON ON NDO DON JUD UDY DY CRA RAYMER R AYMER R, RIIC ICHARD CHAR HA ARD RD EAS AST A ST A AND AN ND BJJĂ&#x2013; ND JĂ&#x2013;RN Ă&#x2013;RN N UL LVAEUS VAEU VAE VA EUS FOR R LIITTLESTAR TTLEST TT ES STA AR R IIN N ASS SSOCIATION S SO OC CIIA ATION N WI WITH W ITH UNI NIVERSAL NIVE N IVE VERS V VER ERS RSAL RSA ADD DDITIONAL D DITIO IONA NAL MA ATERIAL TE ER RIAL IAL & ARR RRANGEMENTS R RA AN NGE GEMEN ENTS MA ARTIN RTIN KOCH MUS USIC U SIIC C PUB UBLISHED U BLIIS SHE HED H ED BY

BY UN NIVERSAL NI IV VE ERSAL L MUS US PUBLISHING GOUP USIC EMI E MI GRO ROVE R OVE VE PA ARK AR RK MUS USIC U SIC C INC NC. AND EMI WA ATERFORD TERFORD MUSIC INC. AND A AN ND SO SOME S OME SO SONGS ON NG GS W WITH ITH

Tuesday, March 26 Grandora from 8:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 9:15 a.m. at Sandyridge Gas & Groceries (Hwy 14) Biggar from 10:15â&#x20AC;&#x201D;11:15 a.m. at Weasieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gourmet Blends (211 Main Street) Hepburn from 2:00 p.m.â&#x20AC;&#x201D;3:00 p.m. at Hepburn Golden Age Centre ( 422 Main Street)

Wednesday, March 27 Martensville from 8:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;9:00 a.m. at A&W (61 Centennial Drive North) Asquith from 10:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;11:00 a.m. at Asquith New Horizons (515 Main Street) Sonningdale from 2:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;3:00 p.m. at Sonningdale Pensioners & Pioneers Hall

Thursday, March 28 Vanscoy from 7:15â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 8:15a.m. at Robinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest (331 Railway Ave East) Harris from 9:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 10:00 a.m. at Harris Tessier New Horizons Hall ( 214 Main Street) Rosetown from 10:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;11:30 a.m. at A&W (309 Highway 7) Herschel from 3:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201D;4:00 p.m. at Herschel Community Hall (West Street)

Friday, March 29 Blaine Lake from 8:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;8:45 a.m. at Ronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CafĂŠ (117 Main Street) HaďŹ&#x20AC;ord from 9:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;9:45 a.m. at A&M Bistro (217 Railway Avenue West) Leask from 10:30â&#x20AC;&#x201D;11:30 a.m. at Leask Cafeteria (10 Main Street) Warman from 2:00â&#x20AC;&#x201D;3:00 p.m. at the Wagon Wheel Family Restaurant (520 Central Street)

Come for a coďŹ&#x20AC;ee and visit at one of these loca ons!

PLEASE NOTE Should the temperature fall below â&#x20AC;&#x201C;40 (with the wind chill) on any day, Kellyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a endance will be cancelled and rescheduled.

WWW.KELLYBLOCKMP.CA

THURSDAY H RS SDAY DA AY, MARC AY ARCH RC CH â&#x20AC;˘7 7:30 :30 p p.m. ..m m.

FRID RIDAY RI ID DA AY Y, MA ARCH RCH 29 29 â&#x20AC;˘ 7:30 7:3 30 0p p.m. .m.

SAATURDAY TURD DA AY, MA ARCH RCH 30 30 â&#x20AC;˘ 7 7:30 ::3 30 p p.m. .m.

SUN UNDAY U NDAY DA DA AY Y, MA ARCH RCH 31 31 â&#x20AC;˘ 2 2:00 :00 p.m. p.m m.

AT A T

THE T HE MA HE MAJESTIC M AJESTIC T THEATRE, HE EA ATRE, B BIGGAR IGG GA AR ale le e

122 22 Ma Main ain t., Biggar or phone 306-948-3344 44 Only On $2 20 0 per pe person on n â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mamma Mia!â&#x20AC;? is presented thr hrough special arrangement with through The heatre International (MTI).

Music Theatre All authorized th i d performance performa f ance materials t i l are also l supplied li d b

by MTI MTI. 423 West 55th h Street, New york, NY 10019 Tel: 212.541.4684 Fax: x: 212.397-4684 www.MTIShows.com

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

I don’t want any eggs!

Everything we do is a choice. From the moment we awake in the morning until the time we come to the day’s end: we choose everything we do and the way we react to every situation. Obviously in some situations it is easier to control our actions more than in others, but they are all still the choices we make.

One morning while traveling for business, I was enjoying a lovely breakfast at a hotel restaurant - no, not a substandard, run-ofthe-mill, free motel-type breakfast buffet of cold cereals and toast. This was a dining room setting in a restaurant at a historic mansion transformed into a heritage house hotel; a very pleasing atmosphere. Included with your stay each morning you were treated to a choice of three breakfast entrées in their restaurant. I chose the “classic” breakfast of eggs (prepared any way you like), hash browns, sausages or bacon, and toast with an array of preserves to choose

from. As I was alternating between tastes of my breakfast with sips of coffee and glances at the morning newspaper, an older couple were seated at the table next to me. They seemed cheerful enough as they exchanged morning pleasantries with each other. After being seated by the hostess, their server came to take their orders.

“I’ll have the classic breakfast,” the woman said.

“How would you like your eggs done?” asked the server.

“I don’t want any eggs!” she sharply replied.

This caught my attention. The pleasurable ambiance bubble had popped. She was very stern with her reply.

“Oh, okay,” he responded, “sausages or bacon?” and he continued with taking her order before proceeding with doing the same for her partner.

I thought to myself: What had just happened there? She seemed amiable enough prior to that, and the conversa-

tion with her partner afterwards seemed very cordial. Was she having a bad morning? It didn’t seem like she was otherwise.

As I continued with my breakfast I couldn’t stop thinking about how abrupt and coarse she responded to the server. The exchanges between her and the server afterwards were acceptable: nothing overly friendly, but not rude either.

Maybe I’m overreacting? I replayed the incident in my mind. No, not at all - her demeanor was very abrupt and almost demanding in that exchange. Maybe she didn’t realize? We all have those moments I guess, when we react to a situation and then in hindsight, we realize the error of our ways. If she

was feeling any regret however, there was no inkling of it to anyone else. Maybe she was embarrassed with her response and just wanted to forget about it.

I’m sorry if I am being oversensitive about this ... I mean, it was just one sentence ... just one brief interaction that didn’t even involve me. Maybe I am overanalyzing this?

Just like we have the free will to make Chef Dez choices in what we do and how we act, we can also choose to learn and grow. The interaction I witnessed, and this corresponding column entry, is not meant to be judgmental. It’s not meant to single out and prosecute anyone. I am merely using this as a reminder to myself to be aware of my disposition when interacting with others, and if this seems of value, then I am offer-

Chef Dez on cooking

ing it to you as well.

We are all on this journey together.

I believe that we should travel through these lifetimes with our eyes wide open; not only embracing the encounters we have with others, but also making sure that we seize any opportunity we can to lead a full and selfless life. Only good can come from making someone smile ... there is no harm to us for doing so ... it doesn’t cost us anything of monetary value ... and it will only spread love and joy.

We all make mistakes.

I know I have made my share of them. Sometimes I get carried away with the way I act and at the moment it is hard for me to see how my actions are perhaps affecting someone else.

But it is in our awareness of these blunders that we can overcome and help to reverse any negativity we may have unintentionally created in the first place. Apologies and kindness are worth their weight in gold.

Everything happens for

a reason. I am a sensitive guy, and my emotions and my internal analytical processes of my ways of thinking get the best of me sometimes; I get that.

However, there is an opportunity to learn and grow in every situation, and I try my best to do that.

I hope that the server did not let this affect him in a negative way, and I hope that woman went on to have a wonderful day. I also hope that my awareness of little inconspicuous things in the future continues to allow me to generate positive observations and outcomes.

Do me a favour: make someone smile today ... heck, make 10 people smile today! What have you got to lose?

In the meantime, Happy Living, and of course Happy Cooking!

Chef Dez is a Chef, Writer, & Host. Visit him at chefdez.com. Write to him at dez@chefdez. comor P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, B.C., V2T 6R4.

19033CN0 19033CN1

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO:

Box 40, 122 Main Street, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

THURSDAY. MARCH14, 2019

email: tip@sasktel.net

Phone: 306-948-3344

www.biggarindependent.ca

. t r i d t s u j s i s i h t , e l p o ” e . l p a t i s t o n e m t o o p T “ s i t i , r e m r a f To a

Salute to Agriculture!

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

I would like to salute the farmers and cattlemen of Saskatchewan during Agriculture Week, and wish you continued growth and prosperity in the future.

Randy Weekes, M.L.A. Biggar -Sask Valley Constituency Phone: 306-948-4880 Toll Free: 1-877-948-4880 Find Randy on www.randyweekes.ca email: randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca

an skatchew a S r u o e We salut ilies this m a f d n a ty Week. farmers e f a S m r re and Fa Agricultu

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week Celebrates Safe & Strong Farms Canadian Agricultural Safety Week 2019 runs from March 10-16.

This March, the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) is encouraging all Canadians to celebrate Safe & Strong Farms.

Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW) is an annual public campaign focusing on the importance of safe agriculture. Safe & Strong Farms: Build an AgSafe Canada is part of a threeyear campaign celebrating farm safety across Canada. The aim of the campaign is to empower

farmers, farm families and farming communities to build (2019), grow (2020), and lead (2021) the agricultural industry in safety and sustainability.

In 2019 organizers are focusing on supporting farmers, farm families and farming communities through resources, safety advice articles, an AgSafe Ribbon campaign and more.

“Safety is essential to a Safe & Strong Farm,” says Marcel Hacault, CASA’s Executive Director. “Building a base that is safe and strong supports the wellness of your

family and the success of your farm.”

As a part of CASW, organizers have produced a number of resources including a wellness series, toolbox talks and a farm stress inventory and management plan. CASW 2019 also marks the third year of the AgSafe Ribbon campaign. The AgSafe Ribbon campaign celebrates Safe & Strong Farms and raises awareness about the importance of farm safety.

Farm Credit Canada is the presenting sponsor of CASW and longtime supporter of other farm safety programs, includ-

ing the Back to Ag Program that supports the cost of adaptive technology for farmers that have experienced a traumatic injury.

“Everyone can agree that safety on the farm is important”, said Michael Hoffort, FCC president and CEO. “While farming can be dangerous, there are simple safety measures everyone can take to mitigate the risk. At FCC, we support Agricultural Safety Week and partner with CASA all year long because practicing safety on the farm never takes a day off.”

Ag Facts S H O P E A SY & s / s / s $ s 3 Committed to the community … owned and operated by Greg Pidwerbesky and Naomi Van Berkom

The Canadian agriculture industry is one of the greatest contributors to our economy.

Our agriculture industry not only leads internationally with respect to the products we produce, but also boasts an

We have been proudly serving the farmers in Biggar and the surrounding communities since 1949.

We believe that farming is at the heart of our community, and we are committed to working side by side with you, the farmer, to better understand your operations and provide for all your financial needs.

We salute you for your contributions to our community!

Biggar • Perdue • Landis

impressive record for job creation, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability.

Here is a Fact Sheet to help you understand the successes of Canada’s agriculture industry. Prepare to be amazed.

largest producer of blueberries • Canada ranks #1 in the G7 for low food processing cost • Canada produces 85% of the world’s maple syrup • The US is Canada’s #1 food export destination

Jobs • One in eight Canadian jobs are related to agriculture • Agriculture employs over 2.1 million Canadians • Canada’s plant science industry ranks among Canada’s top employers • Grain is responsible for 40,000 jobs in Ontario alone • There are 3 jobs waiting for every agronomics graduate in Ontario

The Environment • One tree can remove the same amount of carbon dioxide from the air that is emitted from a car driving 17,700 km • Fifty thousand fewer gallons of water are needed to grow an acre of corn today, compared to 20 years ago • Thanks to Canada’s conservation tillage practices, 12 billion kilograms of CO2 were prevented from entering the atmosphere in 2008 • GHGs from Canada’s dairy cows and manure management decreased 21% from 1990-2009

An Industry Leader • Canada is the world’s largest producer and exporter of flaxseed, canola, pulses, durum wheat, peas, lentils, and mustard seeds • The meat processing industry is Canada’s third largest manufacturing industry, ranking behind motor vehicles and petroleum products • Canada is the world’s 2nd largest exporter of malting barley (used to brew beer) • Canada’s is the world’s

Dollars • In 2008, Canadian agriculture generated more than $70 billion in economic activity • The value of honey bees to Canadian agriculture is over $1 billion • The cattle industry contributes approximately $24.6 billion to the Canadian economy

• Sales of milk and dairy products contribute $10 billion to the Canadian economy • In 2011, Canadian dairy genetics exports were valued at $120M • Grains create $9B in economic output for Canada • In 2009, Canadian farmers exceeded $1B with a total economic impact of over $3B • Beef industry contributes almost $25B to the Canadian economy annually Growth & Demand • Canada is the world’s 5th largest exporter of agricultural products • World food demand will increase 70% by 2050 • Since 2007, China’s import of Canadian vegetable oil has increased by 300% • Within the last 6 years, Canada’s exports to Russia alone have increased by 430% • A farmer in 1900 produced enough food for 10 people. Today’s farmer feeds over 120 people • Three per cent of Canada’s population is employed in industrial farmer – they are able to feed a population of over 30 million and export to foreign markets

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Salute to Agriculture!

USask research turning ethanol waste into Alzheimer meds, industrial products used to make plastics and resins.

“We are essentially aiming to make clinically and commercially useful products from thin stillage that’s now used as animal feed,” said Dr. Martin Reaney (PhD), a USask professor in the College of AgriUniversity of Saskatchewan Professor Dr. Martin Reaney culture and Bioresources who led the

by Sarath Peiris, for the (GPC) which is sold as research team. “These University of Saskatch- a pharmaceutical drug products could be more ewan (choline alfoscerate) for valuable than the ethaA University of Sas- Alzheimer patients in nol from the processing katchewan research Korea, Russia and some team’s quest to extract eastern European and plants.”

Reaney has been awardprotein from more than South American couned an Engage Grant by the a billion litres of annu- tries, and as a cognition federal agency NSERC ally produced wastewa- enhancer (nootropic) in for a collaborative project ter (called thin stillage) North America. with a Saskatoon compaat Saskatchewan’s ethaGPC helps the body nol plants has yielded increase production of ny to scale up production something far more acetylcholine, the basic and refine the stillage valuable—a compound neurotransmitter that GPC to a clinical-quality used in many countries signals messages to cells product.

“The idea is to take a to slow cognition loss in and plays an important multi-front approach Alzheimer patients. role in mental processto feeding the brain of A University of Sas- es such as memory and Alzheimer’s patients by katchewan research cognition. GPC has also coupling together GPC team’s quest to extract shown positive effects protein from more than on athletic performance and other brain-enhanca billion litres of annu- and recovery from heart ing compounds,” said Reaney, the Saskatchally produced wastewa- attack and stroke. ter (called thin stillage) The researchers have ewan Ministry of Agriculat Saskatchewan’s etha- also discovered that still- ture Strategic Research nol plants has yielded age contains other com- Chair and Chair of Lipid something far more mercially useful com- Quality Utilization at valuable—a compound pounds, including 1,3- USask, whose specialty is used in many countries propanediol (1,3-PD) that oilseeds and processing.

The design of a costto slow cognition loss in is a non-toxic antifreeze effective method to proAlzheimer patients. and solvent, as well as a duce pure GPC suitable That compound is glyc- component of polymers eryl phosphoryl choline

for clinical use is the latest development in the research team’s surprising discovery of GPC in thin stillage nearly a decade ago.

“At first we didn’t think it was worth going after the GPC. There were fewer studies back then on the clinical effects of GPC on cognition,” said Reaney.

GPC on the market today is made from lecithin in eggs and by refining soy, Reaney said. The team’s discovery is an opportunity to make GPC from an entirely vegetable-based source without using lecithin.

Reaney is working with North West Terminals Ltd. in Unity, SK, PoundMaker Agventures in Lanigan, SK, and Terra Grain Fuels in Belle Plaine, SK. on research to use stillage to produce concentrated protein for use in animal feed and products such as GPC and 1,3-PD. Terra Grain Fuels is the largest wheat ethanol plant in North America, producing 150 million litres of ethanol a year.

The other plants produce a combined 40 million litres. The volume of thin stillage left by the process is six to 10 times the amount of ethanol produced—as much as two billion litres a year.

Reaney estimates that the Terra Grain plant alone could supply enough GPC to provide

2.5 billion, 600-milligram doses a year. Projections suggest that by 2050, there could be as many as 15 million people with Alzheimer’s Disease in the U.S. and Canada.

Reaney, whose team includes Dr. Ratanaparinuch (former PhD student), Dr. Shen (Research

Associate), and Ms. Jia (former technician), has filed patents for processing thin stillage.

The Saskatchewan government’s Agriculture Development Fund and the federal agency NSERC funded Reaney’s research.

RECOGNITION We wish to take this opportunity to recognize the vital role that agriculture plays in our economy.

Serving your community for

71 years…

Watch for LESLIE’S DISCOUNT DAY…

Leslie’s Drugstore Ltd. Main Street • Biggar • 306-948-3397

WE SALUTE THE BARLEY PRODUCERS OF SASKATCHEWAN Prairie Malt, as a value-added agricultural processor, would like to thank the barley producers of this area for putting in the extra effort that is vital to growing worldclass malting barley.

Salute to Agriculture!

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Five tips to smooth succession planning for the family business

I would like to salute the farmers of Saskatchewan during Agriculture Safety Week, and wish you continued growth and prosperity in the future.

Jim Reiter, M.L.A. Rosetown-Elrose Constituency 215 Main St., Rosetown Monday-Friday, 9 - 5 p.m.

Phone: 306-882-4105 Toll Free: 1-855-762-2233 Email: jimreitermla@ sasktel.net

We salute you, farmers and ranchers, for your efforts and your contribution to our community.

For all your gift needs, visit us at…

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

(NC) Succession planning is an issue that is top of mind for many farm owners. Often the plan is to hand over the reins to a younger family member. But when family is involved, there can be greater sensitivity amongst the participants and greater potential for differences of opinion.

Junior partners have their own ambitions and needs that aren’t necessarily what the senior partner had in mind, at least not immediately.

The best way for a junior partner to approach the process is to treat it like

they would any other business transaction.

While this isn’t always easy, here are some steps you can take: • Be patient. Sometimes a junior partner comes to the table with plenty of new and innovative ideas. However, being a little too quick to change things can sometimes put the senior partner on the defensive.

• Start the discussion early. Once the senior partner has voiced the idea of retiring or slowing down, ease into the conversation. If you look too

eager or push too hard, the senior partner may start pulling back.

• Put your personal feelings aside. Emotions can quickly stall progress and create negative feelings among family members.

Keep the discussion within a business framework with specific processes.

Include all parties, such as employees and family members. Conduct a proper business meeting off site, where you can talk professionally about expectations, roles and timelines. Most importantly, write them down

• Evaluate your plan annually. Set a time each year to talk about your progress and what you need to focus on next.

Keep that conversation within the guidelines you have written down.

• Don’t leave your senior partner out of the picture.

Together, find a specific task or a way they can contribute after the transition. Continue to invite them to the more challenging business conversations and/or decisionmaking meetings. Both sides will appreciate the support.

The various benefits of farm-to-table 217 Main Street Biggar • 306-948-2452

The farmers and stockmen of this community contribute greatly to the area’s economy. We salute you for your efforts now, and hope you benefit from those efforts in the future.

215 Main St., Biggar Hours: Monday - Wednesday & Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday, 8:30 - 7 p.m.

• Saturday - 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

306-948-3315

Few things are more satisfying than biting into a fresh tomato right from the garden or seasoning a meal with herbs picked from a windowsill greenhouse. Restaurants recognize the value of such experiences, and more and more are relying on locally sourced products in their kitchens.

The farm-to-table movement is not new, but it has gained momentum as consumers become increasingly enamored with the flavor and environmental impact of locally sourced foods.

The National Restaurant Association found that farm-to-table food was one of its top 10 trends for 2015. Furthermore, the group says that one in five consumers are willing to pay more for local food, and 41 per cent admit that

Keep an eye out for any potential HAZARDS Approach livestock CAUTIOUSLY Handle machinery with RESPECT

locally sourced ingredients influence their decisions when choosing where to dine.

Newcomers to the farmto-table dining experience may not understand all the fuss surrounding this popular trend.

The following are some of the key benefits of farmto-table.

• Peak freshness and ripeness: Local produce ripens on the plant and can be harvested at the last possible minute before it turns up on a plate. This helps ensure that it contains the highest amount of nutrients and flavour. Food that has to travel further is often picked well before it is ready, ripening on the way to stores or other vendors.

• Better for the environment: Food that needn’t travel far before reaching diners’ plates saves roughly 500 gallons of diesel fuel to haul produce a distance of 1,500 miles. This conserves

fossil fuels and prevents harmful emissions from entering the atmosphere.

• Supports neighboring farms: Supporting farmto-table restaurants and other eateries keeps business local in two different ways. It not only benefits local restaurants, but it also directly supports neighboring farms, fisheries and other suppliers.

• Accessibility to seasonal choices: Farm-totable eating provides a wide variety of in-season foods. This can translate into tastier foods because they are grown and harvested during their optimal growing season.

• Reduces factory farming: Farm-to-table and

local farming can reduce reliance on large, profitdriven corporations that may focus on maximum production over animal health and welfare.

Local farms may be more inclined to treat their animals well and institute sustainable practices.

• Learn about the community: A person might live in an area and never know that a local vineyard is in the vicinity or that a producer of straightfrom-the-hive honey is nearby. Exploring farmto-table resources can open people’s eyes to local businesses doing great work in and around their communities.

REMEMBER…… PREVENTION IS BEST SO TAKE TIME… TO TAKE CARE ON THE FARM

Be sure to play it safe… EVERYDAY! Worried about the safety of your farm employees?

We have an alternative to Workers Comp.

220 Main St., Biggar - 306-948-2204 100-2nd Ave. W., Landis - 306-658-2044

Growing Toward Tomorrow Salute to the Farmers and Ranchers of Saskatchewan Hats off to Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers for continually providing Saskatchewan's agricultural life-blood.

"IGGAR s

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

Salute to Agriculture!

Wheat Congress to put USask in the spotlight

by HenryTye Glazebrook, for University of Saskatchewan “Anything we can do as scientists to improve yields, disease resistance and overall quality and nutrition, will go a long way to help global food security.”

Dr. Curtis Pozniak (PhD) There’s something innately calming about the sight of golden wheat swaying in the breeze.

And yet, for someone like University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Dr. Curtis Pozniak (PhD), that pastoral image is positively electric with potential.

Pozniak points to the sequencing of the wheat genome, which has picked apart the grain’s very DNA to produce a blueprint of its structure, as just one of many recent advancements in the flourishing field of wheat research.

“From a research point of view, it’s a very exciting time because we can use this as a resource to really delve into the genetic makeup of wheat and what makes it tick,” Pozniak said. “What makes wheat, wheat. How does it work, how does it resist pests, and how can we use that information to yield or improve nutritional quality and human health?”

It’s these kinds of

breakthroughs that make Pozniak so enthusiastic to chair the local organizing committee of the International Wheat Congress, which will host its inaugural conference in Saskatoon from July 21–26, 2019. The event, which expects to draw upward of 700 scientists from around the world, was created by dovetailing the International Wheat Genetics Symposium and the Wheat Symposium into a single, more robust gathering.

“The idea was to marry those two groups together so that the geneticists get to hear from the agronomists, the agronomists get to hear from the geneticists,” he said. “You get this more cohesive group that better represents the whole value chain of wheat, all the way from basic research right to economics and production.”

Although full programming has yet to be announced, Pozniak said that a unique approach to speaker selection is being taken to ensure a greater degree of geographic, gender and age diversity.

“We’ll be selecting speakers for our program based on a blind peer review of submitted research papers,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a senior professor or a student, everyone is going to be judged in a way that

ensures that the best science is represented.”

The congress will also offer ample opportunity for visiting researchers and producers to explore the agricultural facilities available to USask students, staff and faculty, with side meetings held on campus before and after the event itself, as well as through tours of USask’s Kernan Crop Research Farm.

“Given the global significance of wheat and the importance of wheat to the Canadian and provincial economy, having the event hosted here will certainly bring a lot of focus and attention to the wonderful ag research that we have here on campus and the state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure that we have to support our research,” Pozniak said.

What’s most important to Pozniak, however, is the chance to get some of the brightest minds in the field together under a single roof, to share ideas, explore new avenues of wheat research and gain unexpected new footholds in the understanding of one of the world’s most important sources of food. ”Wheat provides twenty per cent of calories and proteins for people in the world. A lot of people don’t know that,” Pozniak said. “A lot of wheat is

Rain barrels great way to repurpose rain water Rain barrels provide an eco-friendly opportunity to repurpose rain water while helping homeowners conserve water and save money. But homeowners must exercise caution when using rain barrels in their lawns and gardens. Water collected by rain water should never be used for drinking, cooking or bathing.

Pet owners should know

that water collected by rain barrels also should not be used to bathe pets.

Rain barrel lids should also be tightly secured to prevent mosquito infestations. Secure rain barrels to also protect children and pets from falling in.

Overflow valves should always direct water away from structures to prevent water damage to homes or sheds. In addi-

tion, to reduce risk of falls and injury, homeowners should be certain that water is not directed toward sidewalks, driveways or other areas where foot traffic is common.

Before the arrival of winter, homeowners should disconnect their rain barrels from downspouts to prevent the formation of ice.

103 - 2nd Ave. E., Biggar • 306-948-2266 209 Main St., Unity • 306-228-3390

We would like to salute our farmer friends in this Saskatchewan Agriculture and Canadian Agricultural FarmSafety Week, March 10-16.

We wish you continued growth and prospereity in future years.

Thank you for your patronage.

There’s something innately calming about the sight of golden wheat swaying in the breeze. And yet, for someone like University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Dr. Curtis Pozniak (PhD), that pastoral image is positively electric with potential.

We salute you, THE FARMER,

grown in countries that are poor, so the work that we do as scientists will not only benefit western Canadian producers but also benefit producers in Third World countries where wheat production can be limited by any number of constraints.

“Anything we can do as scientists to improve yields, disease resistance and overall quality and nutrition, will go a long way to help global food security.”

during Saskatchewan Agriculture & Canadian Ag Safety Week

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Salute to Agriculture!

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

We Salute Our Farming Industry Beeson's Barber Shop â&#x20AC;Śserving the community for 61 years

BIGGAR FLOWER AND GIFT SHOP

â&#x20AC;Śserving the community for 50 years

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Agriculture and the economy Though itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to look at the tech industry and think this increasingly influential sector is what makes the world go round, something closer to the very core of the Earth may be whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s driving your economy.

The agricultural sector plays a strategic role in a nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic development and prosperity.

From the earliest days,

agriculture has been heralded as playing a crucial role in North American culture. Farmers who grow produce and raise livestock for meats and other products have long exemplified what it means to work hard and take initiatives to be selfsufficient.

The symbiotic nature of agriculture and the

We are here to meet your every need and wish you continued growth and prosperity.

306-658-2002 â&#x20AC;˘ Landis â&#x20AC;˘

We would like to recognize the contribution that the agriculture industry has made to the prosperity of the Province of Saskatchewanâ&#x20AC;Ś Saskatchewan Agriculture Awareness Week and Canadian Agricultural Farm Safety Week

â&#x20AC;Śmanufacturers of quality farm equipment

201 Turnbull Ave., Biggar 306-948-2544 1-800-445-3529

Farmers markets have grown in popularity in recent years. Nowadays, consumers interested in farmers markets can likely find one near their homes whether those homes are in rural communities, the suburbs or bustling cities.

People who have never before shopped farmers markets may be curious as to why many people find them so appealing.

The following are a handful of benefits of shopping farmers markets that might turn market novices into full-fledged devotees. â&#x20AC;˘ Freshness: Many people visit farmers markets because the fruits and vegetables sold at such markets seem to taste more fresh. People are not mistaken, as the produce available at farmers markets often comes from local farms, meaning thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no long-

distance shipping necessary. Locally sourced foods need not be frozen en route to the market, meaning foods purchased there tend to taste especially fresh. â&#x20AC;˘ In-season foods: Some grocery stores may sell fruits and vegetables even when those foods are out of season. Farmers markets only sell in-season fruits and vegetables. To grow fruits and vegetables out-of-season, farmers may need to rely on chemicals or other unnatural methods. No such means are necessary when farmers stick to growing foods in-season. â&#x20AC;˘ Environmental benefits: According to the Center for Urban Education about Sustainable Agriculture, food travels an average of 1,500 miles to get to consumersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; plates.

Such journeys burn natural resources, pollute the

We salute the farmers of Saskatchewan and are proud to be an independent supplier of fertilizer, crop protection products and petroleum products.

Thank You Farmers of Saskatchewan

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economy is noticeable when examining the ups and downs of each. This is because food production and the potential of agriculture extends beyond the fields and local food stands. These resources impact supply chains and other markets. A strong agriculture base influences other employment sectors like food manufacturing, biotechnology, hospitality, machinery building, and much more, while a weak agriculture can adversely affect those sectors.

While it can be difficult for residents of developed nations to visualize agricultureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s effect, one only needs to turn to impoverished and developing nations to see just how big an impact agriculture

can have on an economy.

Agriculture provides food and raw materials, eventually creating demand for goods produced in non-agricultural sectors.

Also, food provides nutrition that can serve as the foundation of a healthy nation. Earning a living in agriculture strengthens purchasing power, which fuels other markets. Eventually, farming can pave the way for development, including roads, markets, shipping services, exporting, and many other sectors.

Agriculture is an important economic building block. An especially important sector, the agricultural industry, when supported, can contribute greatly to sustained economic growth.

The benefits of shopping farmers markets

Main Street Market 115 Main St. â&#x20AC;˘ Biggar â&#x20AC;˘ 306-948-3337

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air and produce sizable amounts of trash that ultimately ends up in landfills and/or the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oceans. Because food sold at farmers markets is locally sourced, considerably fewer natural resources are necessary to transport the food from farm to table, and the relatively short distances the food travels translates to less air pollution. â&#x20AC;˘ Biodiversity: Many farmers market shoppers find unique foods not readily available at their local grocery stores.

This is not only a great way to discover new and delicious foods, but also a way to promote biodiversity. â&#x20AC;˘ Hormonefree animal products: Farmers markets do not exclusively sell fruits and vegetables. Many

farmers markets also are great places to find meats, cheeses and eggs. Animal products sold at farmers markets are typically antibiotic- and hormonefree, which is both more humane to the animals and healthier than animal products produced with hormones or antibiotics.

Farmers markets are more accessible than ever, and the benefits to shopping such markets are endless.

May your 2019 season be the best yet!

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THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Proper footwear selection an important part of a safe farm

by Robert Gobeil for the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association We all wear footwear, but how many of us wear the right type for different tasks?

On the farm, there are many everyday tasks that could result in injuries to feet or ankles if the proper footwear is not used. Footwear is a key aspect of injury prevention, which is why it’s important to wear the right type to ensure your safety. Make sure you’re using footwear that meets specific safety standards by always selecting CSAapproved footwear, which can be identified by a green triangle (usually found on the right foot).

When it comes to tasks that involve heavy lifting, safety footwear with a steel or composite toe should be worn any time there’s a chance of your foot being struck by or pinched between objects.

And in situations where your foot could be injured by an object falling on top of it, use safety footwear with metatarsal guards on the tongue.

For jobs that involve electrical work, select

footwear that has an electrical insulator (dielectric), which will provide resistance against electric shock. To identify this type of footwear, look for an orange Greek letter omega symbol (which resembles an upsidedown horseshoe).

There’s no question that producers work in all kinds of different conditions. When working in wet or muddy conditions, rubber boots are an obvious choice for keeping feet dry. It’s a good idea to clean any mud and debris from your boots at the end of the day in order to maintain grip and avoid tracking debris. You can also prevent slips and falls on wet, oily, snow-covered, or icy surfaces by wearing footwear with an anti-slip outsole to maintain maximum traction. Keep in mind that while overshoe attachments (like cleats or crampons) might be useful for icy conditions, they can be hazardous to wear on dry, hard surfaces.

When working on uneven surfaces, select footwear with a tall upper and laces all the way to the top of the boot, which

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

Salute to Agriculture!

will help to support your ankle and prevent injury from rolling it.

If you have torn or damaged footwear that you think you could get a couple of extra months out of, you might want to think again. Leaky rubber boots don’t just lead to cold, wet feet; they could potentially expose you to chemicals and other hazardous substances. Rather than take any chances, replace damaged footwear as soon as possible.

Because footwear is such an important part of injury prevention on the farm, these requirements should be listed as man-

datory personal protective equipment in the safe work procedures part of your safety management system. Don’t forget to discuss the footwear requirements for specific jobs with workers during orientation.

Always assess the conditions and potential hazards that you’ll be working in and select the right type of footwear for the job. Wearing the proper footwear will help ensure your safety, which means less risk of injury and more productive work.

This safety advice article is a part of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week.

Perdue Agencies Ltd.

All the best to our farmer and rancher friends for their continued success in the future.

• Talk to your employees first for referrals. While there are recruiting services and other avenues to find talent, many successful farmers say the best approach is asking their current staff for referrals.

If you run a fun, safe and productive work environment, chances are they will be more than happy to recommend the perfect person for the job.

• Ask the right questions when interviewing a candidate. Try to dig deeper into their personality by asking them relevant questions where they can’t give yes or no answers. For example, what are their ambitions, hobbies and weaknesses; or their likes and dislikes?

• Remember that retention is not only about the money. In today’s environment, employees are also interested in empowerment and receiving recognition for a job well done. Flexibility is also key, especially for work-

Perdue, Sask.

306-237-4373 www.renewonline.com

Landis Producer Co-op Congratulations to our farmer and rancher friends for their continued success in the future.

Landis, Sask.

306-658-2050 fax 306-658-2051

We salute our

Footwear is a key aspect of injury prevention, which is why it’s important to wear the right type to ensure your safety.

farmer friends during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week

Human resources key to weathering economic ups and downs (NC) Farmers have plenty of business issues to worry about, from financing and investment to harvesting and maintaining equipment.

But one that is often overlooked is human resources.

With today’s volatile economy and labour shortages, operators need to focus more than ever on HR planning — from attracting and acquiring talent, to retention and benefits.

So what steps are important when it comes to hiring and retaining employees for your farm?

• Develop a formalized human resources plan.

Many operations don’t have a written and structured plan. Depending on the size and scope of your operation, a plan could include policies around hiring criteria, roles and responsibilities, seasonal staffing requirements, compensation and safety training.

See us for all your insurance needs…

Thanks for your support and Good Luck in the 2019 season!

1st Avenue Collision Centre 1st Ave. West • Biggar

306-948-3356

ers with young families.

• Consider offering benefits packages. There are plenty of inexpensive options available for smaller operations, such as healthcare spending accounts.

• Last but not least, let them know how they are doing. Take the time to check in with employees to see how they feel about their work, ambitions, performance and areas for improvement.

An open discussion can go a long way towards keeping prized employees loyal and happy.

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• 306-948-3376

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Protect natural bee habitats

During Agriculture Week, let's remember the part farming has played and still does in the development of Saskatchewan. It has provided us with the essentials to achieve what we have today. By providing food for our millions -- natural fibres for our clothing -- jobs for many of our people. Let's practise conservation to preserve this land that has given us life.

Toll FREE 1-866-934-6675 Dwayne Desrosiers

RBC Royal Bank We salute the Farming industry, who don’t just work till the sun goes down…

They work till the job is done!

Honeybees are humble insects that benefit the environment in various ways. Unfortunately, many people lump bees in with wasps and other seemingly “harmful” insects and do whatever is necessary to remove them from their properties. But it’s important to be mindful of the beneficial roles bees play and to take steps to maintain healthy habitats so they can thrive.

Bees are one of the most important pollinators of flowers, crops and fruit trees. These small insects can make or break entire food supplies. They also pollinate clover and alfalfa that provide feed for cattle. Some experts place the economic value of bees at roughly $15 billion per year.

A consortium of universities and research laboratories reported that beekeepers lost 42.1 per cent of their colonies between 2014 and 2015.

Bee populations continue to decline. According to the conservation organization Save the Bees, recent surveys suggest close to a 99 per cent loss in bees over the last 150 years, primarily due to increasing agricultural

intensification.

To combat this sharp decline in bee populations, people from all walks of life can do their part to help bees thrive once again. And by helping bees, individuals also may indirectly help other beneficial pollinating insects, such as butterflies.

Be aware of the landscape Not all bees build the wax or paper structures associated with traditional beehives. Those hives may not be readily visible even for bees that do build them. Wood-nesting bees can nest in twigs or dead trees. Bees may nest underground or use the burrows abandoned by small rodents. Before excavating or disturbing more remote areas of the yard, check to see if it is a habitat for bees. Leave some natural areas of the landscape untouched and do not remove twigs, mounds of dirt and native flowers to attract more bees.

Plant native flowers and flowering trees Offer bees plenty of flowering choices so they’ll be happy to come investigate. Native flowers are best because they

will be most familiar. Try to plant an array that will flower at different times of the year. Simple flowers will offer more readily available access to pollen than hybrid or exotic varieties bred to produce mounding petals.

Leave swatches of natural lawn Instead of properties featuring an entire manicured lawn, set aside an area that is encouraged to overgrow with dandelions and clovers, which are good nectar sources for many bees.

Support local beekeepers If you find a honey bee swarm on your property, contact a local beekeeper who may be able to safely collect and relocate that swarm so it will produce honey and

provide the additional benefits associated with healthy bees. People can also support beekeepers’ work by purchasing local honey. Not only does it keep jobs in the area, but some research also suggests that consuming local honey can help reduce seasonal allergies.

The practice is based on immunotherapy. Local honey contains traces of local pollen that may be responsible for seasonal allergies. Repeated exposure to small doses of this pollen might help bodies develop natural immunities.

Bees can be quite beneficial to have around, and it can be an enjoyable venture to customize landscapes to support the propagation of wild bees.

The surprising benefits of cattle farming and ranching Lee Laughren

Kendal Moore

ACCOUNT MANAGER,

ACCOUNT MANAGER,

AGRICULTURE

AGRICULTURE

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(NC) Although sometimes challenged, cattle farming and ranching plays an important role in preserving biodiversity and the habitats of local wildlife, while also supporting healthy soil. Just as the bison kept grasslands healthy and viable for centuries, cattle grazing has the same effect.

According to Dr. Chris-

Continued Success to the farmers of Saskatchewan We encourage our farm families and communities to talk about safety during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week, March 10-16.

It is a great way to raise the awareness of keeping everyone safe and we're honoured to boost their well-being.

WESTWINDS MOTOR HOTEL “EXPERIENCE THE WESTWINDS DIFFERENCE” DAYNA, TRENT AND STAFF • 306-948-3301

tian Artuso of Bird Studies Canada, grassland bird species — such as the Burrowing Owl, Baird’s Sparrow and Chestnut-Collared Longspur — require a variety of grazed grasslands to survive in the wild. So grazing cattle helps to maintain the habitat of species at risk.

Grazing rather than cultivating crops is less disruptive to the landscape and helps sustain native

grasses and grassland bird populations, which ultimately benefits the ecosystem.

Recognizing the importance of cattle’s contribution to preserving native prairie and wetlands, environmental groups such as, Bird Studies Canada and Ducks Unlimited are working to help develop programs like, Graze On, to encourage and support cattle ranching as initiatives for conservation and

environmental benefit.

Beyond the prairie landscape, much of the land used to raise cattle is not suitable for farming crops and vegetables.

Therefore, beef farming allows land that is too rocky, hilly or dry for growing crops to become an important resource to raise nourishing food. In many rural areas, raising cattle is the most environmentally beneficial use of the land.

It is time to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. Have a great 2019 season!

3.5 miles South of Wilkie on Hwy #14, Wilkie, Saskatchewan

www.louisdreyfus.ca 306-843-3113

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Salute to Agriculture!

Collaborative research is the key to the LFCE

Students Michelle Streeter, Autumn Lawson and Grayson Ross burn a commemorative cattle brand into heritage wood from the former U of S research facility, under the watchful eye of cattle producer Murray McGillivray. (Photo: Dave Stobbe)

by Lana Haight, for the University of Saskatchewan The newest kid on the block for researchers at the University of Saskatchewan is a worldclass facility that brings together under one roof all aspects of raising livestock in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner.

The Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence is a $38-million worldclass complex of field and science laboratories, operating three distinct research and teaching units. While each focuses on certain aspects of livestock production, they are fully integrated to encourage collaboration between scientists and students from a range of disciplines. Plant, soil and animal scientists from the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, veterinarians with expertise in infectious diseases as well as in animal behaviour from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM), and

environmental engineers from the College of Engineering are leading research projects with considerable overlap, breaking down silos to work together.

“This research is so complex, we can no longer research one aspect in isolation. By combining the research, you can be more effective and you are using your dollars more wisely. Ultimately, you are also getting more insight into the answers that you want,” said Kris Ringwall, who began working as the centre’s director on Nov. 1.

“Plus, people talk to each other then. That’s a big deal to get faculty and others to talk to one another, to communicate.

It’s important to not just read our own books, but to read someone else’s, too.”

The mandate of the research centre includes providing livestock producers and consumers with solid, research-based information on emerging issues related to beef cat-

tle health, reproduction, nutrition, genetics, and public safety, as well as plant breeding for forage crops, grazing management, and the environment.

The Beef Cattle Research and Teaching Unit (BCRTU) and the Forage and Cow-Calf Research and Teaching Unit are located across the road from each other, south of Clavet. Two laboratories and sample preparation areas, equipped with a centrifuge, nearinfrared spectroscopy machine, industrial drying ovens and sample grinders, are located at the BCRTU and will be used by researchers at both units.

The beef cattle unit is a 1,500-head feedlot and houses a state-of-the-art metabolism barn with 24 stalls. Researchers will collect data on individual animals as each stall has its own manger and water bowl. Animal comfort and care were topof-mind when the facil-

ity was designed.

Each stall has a waterbed mat and the animals will access an outdoor exercise pen daily.

The forage and cow-calf unit will house a herd of 300 breeding females. In addition to outdoor cattle pens, the unit has a calving barn and a cattle handling area where animals will be weighed regularly and treated as need-

ed.

The third unit is the Goodale Research Farm.

It will remain at its present location, southeast of Saskatoon, and will be upgraded starting in May, 2019. In addition to 165 breeding females, the Goodale farm houses horses, bison and deer for research.

“The University of Saskatchewan should be proud of this centre. This is a major thing in the world of international agriculture. It is something that we can toot our horn about,” said Ringwall, who had been the director of the North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) Dickinson Extension Centre since 1992.

Ringwall, who moved from NDSU to take on this new role at the U of S, reports to the deans of both the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, and the WCVM. Funding for the Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence was provided by the U of S, the federal and provincial governments, as well as several organizations, corporations and individuals.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

The family farm and ranch is more than a business - the family farm/ranch is a lifestyle - it is an ideal worth preserving.

We salute you!

Designs by Ann 121 Main St. • Biggar • 306-948-3666

During Agriculture Week, let’s remember the contributions that our farming and ranching community has done to develop this great province of ours, Saskatchewan.

Congratulations on all your past and future endeavours.

AGI ENVIROTANK 401-Hwy 4 South, Biggar, Sask.

306-948-5262

We appreciate your dedication and hard work and wish you continued growth and prosperity in the future.

M & N Repair Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

701 - 4th Ave. East (Truck Route East) Biggar Open Monday to Saturday www.mnrepair.com Call

306-948-3996

We would like to take this opportunity to salute our farmer friends during Canadian Agricultural Safety Week (CASW), “Safe & Strong Farms: Build an AgSafe Canada”

One mile East on Hwy #14, Unity, Saskatchwan www.northwestterminal.com 1-306-228-3735

Saskatchewan farmers are the world's greatest providers of food, fiber, fertilizers and feeds.

They create jobs and contribute to our healthy economy as well as our healthy diets. We're proud and thankful for the hard working, dedicated people and their families who make up our finest Saskatchewan Agriculture industry.

INDUSTRY

SALUTE TO THE FARMING

201-B - 2nd Ave. West - Biggar • 306-948-5133

Salute to Agriculture!

10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

WE SALUTE SASKATCHEWAN FARMERS Let’s remember the part farming has played and still does in the development of Saskatchewan.

Angie’s Hair Salon & Barber Shop 219 Main St., Biggar 306-948-3696 • Angie, Trevor, Sherry •

eaglecreekwatershed@hotmail.com

306-831-6009 We salute you, THE FARMER … Protect yourself and the environment.

We salute the farmers and ranchers of our community all year and on this week of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week.

We continue to help and support you in all facets of your farming needs.

Duperow Co-op Duperow, Sask.

306-948-2706

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Build safety on your farm before spring planting

by Robert Gobeil for the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association As the start of spring draws closer, for many Canadian producers, thoughts turn to the planting of crops and the hope for a productive and successful farming season begins again.

The promise of a new season is an ideal time to do a thorough check of equipment and processes.

If you feel you’re running short of time, consider this: time is a resource we seem to have plenty of when times are slow, and then becomes invaluable as work demands increase. Being proactive checking equipment and processes before planting is essential. Taking the time to implement preseason checklists will pay off in the end by helping reduce the chance of breakdowns and downtime during one of the very busiest parts of the year. (As an added bonus, using checklists as a part of your safety management system shows your farm does its due diligence.)

There are plenty of checklist templates available or they can be created from scratch. The choice is yours. (Check out casa-acsa.ca/resources/canada-farmsafe-plan for CASA’s free FarmSafe Plan – including checklists!)

When working with a checklist, begin by asking yourself questions about various equipment and processes. This will give you the tools to identify problems and gives you the opportunity to develop corrective actions to address any issues. You don’t have to rush and try to fix everything all at once. Instead, prioritize items based on the

chance of occurrence and potential severity if a breakdown occurred.

An operational checklist should also include placing orders for essential supplies, such as seed, crop protection products, or feed. Since these items often take time to arrive, ordering them in advance means they are readily available when needed.

Another thing to consider on your checklist is purchasing any necessary insurances (home/property, crop, liability, etc.) to protect your operation should an unfortunate and unforeseen event occur. And don’t forget to inspect your fields and pastures for standing water and drainage once the last of the snow has finally melted.

This is also a good time to make sure all of your workers are up-todate with training, as well as reminding them

about your Emergency Response Plan. (If you don’t already have an Emergency Response Plan, now’s the time to develop one.)

When it comes to tools and equipment, consider stocking up on parts that often need replacing (including items like lights and reflective markings). Remember that some items should be maintained based on the hours of use, so there’s nothing wrong with performing this maintenance ahead of schedule to avoid breakdowns and unexpected repairs when the workload increases.

And while you’re doing maintenance, don’t overlook your safety equipment. Every checklist should include safety equipment inspections to ensure these items are accessible and working properly if they are needed. This includes

fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and eyewash stations, as well as personal protective equipment.

On top of checking your equipment and processes, a facility inspection should also be implemented as part of your safety management system. While this type of assessment needs to be done at regular intervals throughout the year, it’s worthwhile to begin the process before the start of the season.

Time is our most valuable resource. That’s why taking care to prepare early is essential to having a productive and successful season. Incorporating pre-season checklists will help prevent downtime and help ensure your operation runs smoothly throughout the busy months ahead.

This safety advice article is a part of Canadian Agricultural Safety Week.

Government of Canada invests over $50 million to help the agricultural sector address emerging challenges and opportunities Canada’s agriculture and agri-food system contributes over $114 billion to our gross domestic product, and provides safe, nutritious and sustainable food for the world, while creating well-paying jobs for our middle class. The sector is working hard to find innovative approaches to respond to growing domestic and global demand while addressing emerging challenges and maintaining its environmental sustainability.

While celebrating Canada’s Agriculture Day with farmers, ranchers, food processors, industry leaders and youth in Ottawa a new Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (CASPP),

an investment of $50.3 million over five years was announced. Funding available through this program will help facilitate the sector’s ability to address emerging issues and capitalize on opportunities.

The CASPP focuses on four priority areas: adoption of new technology; environmental sustainability; strategic development and capacity building; and, emerging issues.

Examples of potential projects could include those addressing artificial intelligence technology, tools to assess future labour and skills needs, bio-crops, environmentally sustainable farming

techniques and strategies to help the sector adapt to changes in consumer preferences.

The program also builds on other Government of Canada initiatives to support competitiveness and sustainability in the agricultural sector. These include the $3-billion, five-year Canadian Agricultural Partnership, $70 million announced in Budget 2018 to support agricultural discoveries in science and innovation to address climate change and soil and water conservation, the $25 million Agricultural Clean Technologies Program, and the Strategic Innovation Fund.

Thank you to our farmer friends.

We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing to build relationships within the community.

Hanover Junction Office located Hwy 14 West., Biggar

Call: 306-948-1990

We are all aware that agriculture is a HUGE part of our country’s economy.

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#4, ¼ mile west on Triumph Road

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Salute to Agriculture!

Wetlands play a critical role for people and nature

by Dan Kraus, senior conservation biologist with the Nature Conservancy of Canada I live next to a swamp.

After 20 years of having this swamp as my neighbour, it’s kind of grown on me. I enjoy the spring flush of marsh marigolds, the annual reawakening of spring peepers, and I still smile when I see a colourful wood duck perched in a tree.

My swamp has two sources that keep it wet: water that seeps from the ground, and runoff from snowmelt and heavy summer rains. All wetlands are wetlands because they are permanently or seasonally wet.

February 2: World Wetlands Day There was a time not so long ago when almost nobody liked swamps, or any other type of wetland. Wetlands have a long history of being seen as wastelands. Places to be filled or drained.

In Canada and around the world, most wetlands are in trouble. It’s estimated that 64 per cent of the world’s wetlands have disappeared since 1900.

All around the world our wetlands are disappearing fast.

Canada’s northern hinterlands hold almost one-quarter of the world’s remaining wetlands. These wetlands are important for Canada, and for the world. They provide breeding habitat for millions of waterfowl, store a global motherlode of carbon, and represent one of a few dwindling places on our planet where wetlands are still wilderness.

But wetlands in southern Canada, where most Canadians live, reflect the state and fate of wetlands around the world. It’s estimated that by 1990, almost 50 million acres (20 million hectares) of Canada’s wetlands had been lost. Wetlands associated with urban areas are particularly threatened, with 80 to 98 per cent converted to other uses.

Canada has done a good job conserving some wetlands, designating 37 sites as Wetlands of International Importance. Many are protected in national parks, and we are continuing to add to our portfolio of protected wetlands and build new

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11

We salute you, farmers and ranchers, for your efforts and your contribution to our community and we are pleased to provide all your crop production inputs & needs.

Hwy #4 South • Biggar

306-948-1753-1778

Fax 306-948-1754

For all your farm equipment needs…

wetland conservation partnerships. Groups like the Nature Conservancy of Canada and Ducks Unlimited Canada are preserving wetlands with the help of Canadians and the Government of Canada’s Natural Areas Conservation Program.

But despite our collective efforts, we are still losing wetlands. Even protected wetlands are increasingly threatened.

Invasive species such as European common reed and glossy buckthorn are degrading many of the wetlands we have left.

Black ash, a still common tree found in many swamps, was recently assessed as a threatened species in Canada because of the predicted impact of the invasive emerald ash borer beetle.

To conserve wetlands we need to think bigger than wetlands. Many species that live in wetlands also depend on the sur-

rounding uplands. Spring peepers move into forests after they are done spring peeping. The water that comes and goes from wetlands impacts the broader watershed, and that watershed impacts the wetlands.

Wetlands in and around cities and farms might be some the hardest working ecosystems on the planet.

For centuries they have cleaned our water, prevented floods and provided habitat for wildlife.

There’s much more we can do to protect wetlands. Canada’s national wetland inventory needs to be completed. Key wetland areas need to be identified, protected and restored. We need management plans that prevent invasive species and plan for the health of our watersheds. Perhaps most importantly, we need a new appreciation of what wetlands provide to us now, and what wetlands

can provide to Canadians in the future.

I don’t want my children to grow up in a diminished natural world. In a world without wetlands, winter’s end is not marked by spring peepers, and the jobs and costs of flood control and water purification are downloaded from nature to people.

There will never be a better time to protect Canada’s wetlands than there is today. As our human population grows, while wildlife populations decline, and as we bear witness to rapid planetary changes that will impact future generations forever, Canada and the world needs our wetlands more than ever.

Contact us at…

We sa farmer lute our s and f riends

1st Ave West, Biggar • 306-948-2700

Cari Perih, REALTOR® Cell: 306-948-7995

carip@remax.net

SoldByCari.ca We would like to take this opportunity to salute our farmer friends for their great contribution to our community and economy.

Shoreline Realty Office: 306-867-8380 /306-856-0066

19033TS1 19033TS2

WE SALUTE ALL OUR FARMER AND RANCHER FRIENDS Our products are custom designed for your needs!

• Hoppers • Bifold doors • Floors • Garages • Sheds • Picnic tables & benches • Work Benches • Custom incinerators • and more…

R. ROTH ENTERPRISES INC. 100 - 1st Ave. Landis, Sask.

306-658-4401

1-866-768-4368

Salute to Agriculture!

12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Carrot and Mustard Cake with Mustard and Fennel Ice Cream

Recognizing farmers and ranchers for their critical role in nourishing today’s population as well as future generations.

Recipe developed by Chef Thayne Robstad and Beth Rodgers Carrot cake is a classic and this spectacular make-ahead dessert is a delightful end to dinner, or a tasty treat with afternoon tea. This delicious spiced ice cream compliments the seasonings in the cake for an elevated twist on a family favourite.

Yields: 10 servings Prep Time: 1 hour Cook Time: 20 minutes Total time: 1 hr 20 min Difficulty: Intermediate Cake 11/2 cups all purpose flour 1 1/2 tsp baking soda 2 Tbsp dry mustard powder 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp ground nutmeg 1/2 tsp salt 2 eggs 3/4 cup canola oil 1 tsp vanilla 2/3 cup cooked carrot puree 2 Tbsp yellow mustard seed, soaked for an hour in warm water, then drained 3/4 cup carrot, finely grated Preheat oven to 325˚F. Spray an 18x26 inch sheet pan and line with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine flour, baking soda, dry mustard powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt and set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, canola oil, vanilla and sugar until smooth.

Then stir in the carrot puree. Sift in the dry ingredients and then fold in the mustard seed and grated carrot. Spread batter evenly on the baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until a tooth pick inserted in the cake comes out clean. Set aside to cool. Cut into three pieces, frost and stack. Once stacked, cut the cake into 10 pieces.

Combine whipping cream, honey, mustard and fennel in a medium saucepan and simmer for five minutes. In a large bowl, combine sugar and egg yolks. Remove saucepan from heat and temper into egg mixture.

Return to heat stirring constantly. Cook until the mixture will coat the back of a spoon. Strain mixture and cool completely. Churn or pour into air tight container and freeze.

“Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry is growing. Agro

technology and innovation has allowed our province to retain its title as “Canada’s bread basket”.

Farming ties itself now to new agricultural innovation and markets where businesses are set in rural surroundings, providing new markets for a growing population.

Saskatchewan is not the new kid on the block, but the stable, smart, sharing one envisioning a world where rural and urban work together.” … Ray Sadler 212 Main St., Biggar

• 306-948-4800

We would like to remind farmers of Saskatchewan to observe all safety rules and have a safe and prosperous 2019.

Drop in and check out our agriculture and automotive products to help you on the farm this year!

Watch for flyers.

Cream Cheese Icing 1 lib cream cheese 1 cup icing sugar Combine cream cheese and icing sugar in a bowl. Whip until smooth and creamy.

Ice Cream 1 L whipping cream 1/2 cup honey 1 Tbsp yellow mustard 1 tsp fennel seed 1/2 cup granulated sugar 12 egg yolks

YH Truck, Ag & Auto 105 Hwy #14 East, Biggar

306-948-2109

www.yhtruckagauto.com www.bumpertobumper.ca

THURSDAY, MARCH 14, 2019

Notes: Leftover egg whites freeze well. Use them to make pavlova, seven minute frosting or an angel food cake. Add them to scrambled eggs, a frittata or omelette.

Super B outfits hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan

306-237-7671

Troy May, owner/operator

Fax # 306.237.TROY