Webpaper 30

Vol. 105 No. 30

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

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

email: tip@sasktel.net

20 pages

$1.25

Bri n and ging n are ews a fo t r 10 o Bigg 5y ear ar s!

Phone: 306-948-3344

www.biggarindependent.ca ndependent.ca

Former MP to have bay named in his honour Newly dubbed Cooper Bay, located on Lake Diefenbaker, is named after Clarence Owen Cooper who was Member of Parliament for RosetownBiggar Constituency from 1958 to 1965. During his time as MP he was a strong supporter of the South Saskatchewan River Yellow flowers are blooming . . . This is one of the prettiest times of and highways there seems to be more of them this year. (Independent Project and the development the year in the province as fields start to bloom. Particularly beautiful are photo by Daryl Hasein) of the Gardiner Dam the canola fields with their yellow flowers. As you travel along the roads and Lake by the Ministry of Cooper was the only one R e g i m e n t w h o w a s N o r t h S a s k a t c h e wa n of the 439 Squadron of the Diefenbaker.

Parks, Culture and to have a bay named after w o u n d e d d u r i n g t h e Regiment, who was killed RCAF, who was shot down Cooper S p o r t ’s H e r i t a g e him but five lakes were also fighting in Ortona, Italy on October 28, 2009 by an by German anit-aircraft was served Conservation Branch named. and later died on December improvised explosive device fire while on air operations as municipal and to date the Archibald Lake is named 20, 1943 as a prisoner of (IED) while deployed as over France on July 18, councillor a member of the Police 1944. program has named after Lt. Girvan Fraser war. and later Nuttall Lake, named after approximately 4,000 A r c h i b a l d ( M a r q u i s , Boyes Lake, named after Operational Mentoring and reeve of the geographic features Saskatchewan), a member Lt. Justin Boyes (Saskatoon, Liaison Team in Kandahar Lt. Andrew Richard Nuttall Hawarden (born in Prince Rupert, of the West Nova Scotia Saskatchewan) of the Province, Afghanistan. municipality Clarence Cooper across the province.

I o n e l L a k e , n a m e d British Columbia, raised b e f o r e after Sapper John Ionel in Regina, Saskatchewan), throwing his hat into (Ormiston, Saskatchewan) a member of the Princess the federal political ring. of the Royal Canadian Patricia’s Canadian Light A farmer by occupation E n g i n e e r s w h o w a s Infantry who was killed he was born in Meaford, captured during fighting on December 23, 2009 by Ontario. During his time in France and executed an improvised explosive in office he served on a on the orders of Wilhelm device (IED) while on foot number of committees Mohnke, an officer with the patrol in Afghanistan. from railways, canals and 12th SS Panzer Division on Each nomination was telegraph lines, agriculture approved following a June 11, 1944. and colonization, industrial Kalen Lake, named after formal request presented relations and miscellaneous F/O John Kalen (Regina, to the ministry. private bills.

Saskatchewan), a member Cooper served three terms and did not seek re-election after the 26th Biggar RCMP investigating Canadian Parliament was multiple residential break dissolved. He died in 1966 at the age of 66. and enters Cooper’s legacy was Between 11 p.m. Thursday, July 3 and 7 a.m. recognized through the Friday, July 4, multiple cases of mischief and break GeoMemorial Naming and enter were reported in Biggar. Some cases Program which was may have been prevented if homeowners secured established in 1947. their property. Biggar RCMP would like to remind The program designates citizens to please secure vehicles and residences to geographic features in prevent such incidents from reoccurring. memory of individuals Biggar RCMP is looking for anyone who born or raised in witnessed the above events. Should you recall Saskatchewan who have Round the barrel . . . This rider keeps an eye on the barrel as she steers her horse seeing anyone/anything suspicious during the lost their lives in the line into the turn. Ladies barrel racing is being held in the valley again this year and there above stated hours, or have any information please of duty or held prominent was a good turnout on July 16. Riders come from all over to compete. Spectators are contact RCMP Biggar Detachment at 306-948-6600 influence in the province’s welcome so if you have a free Wednesday evening drive on down to check out the action. or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. history. It is administered (Independent photo by Daryl Hasein)

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Horses certainly kick up the dust as the riders try to keep close to the barrel. It’s all about the time. The weather co-operated this evening and the ladies provided plenty of action and excitement for spectators. (Independent photos by Dary Hasein)

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Capital improvements complete in The Battlefords Provincial Park Nearly $1.5 million in capital upgrades for The Battlefords Provincial Park are now completed -- in time for the 2014 camping season.

Beginning this year, park visitors are benefitting from a new Centre Campground service centre, electrical expansion in the South Campground and electrical upgrades and expansion in the North Campground.

“The province’s increasing population allows our government to invest more and more in the provincial park system for everyone,” MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford Larry Doke said on behalf of Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Mark Docherty.

“These investments enable us to meet visitor demand and help us maintain our parks for the enjoyment and education of the people of Saskatchewan.”

The improvements to The Battlefords Provincial Park are part of a larger commitment government made to invest an additional $10 million, over and above base capital funding, in park upgrades from 2012 to 2016. These park upgrades have included new campground development, enhancement of shower and bathroom facilities, campsite electrification and other infrastructure improvements.

Repair work . . . Crews have been busy repairing the railway tracks along the CN line in Biggar. It’s the season for construction, not only on highways and streets, but also on the rails. (Independent photo by Daryl Hasein)

In 2013, the provincial park system set a record 3.7 million visits. The Battlefords Provincial Park recorded 210,525 of those visits.

The 2014-15 budget has increased funding to provincial parks by 4.6 per cent this year. This includes capital and maintenance spending which will hit record levels with $14.9 million identified for upgrades and new construction projects. Total capital investments in provincial parks have increased 244 per cent in the past seven years, compared to the previous seven year period.

Reunion visitors out and about this weekend Starting Friday, July 25 the town of Biggar’s population will swell by 50 or more people as the graduates from 1974 return after 40 years of making a life somewhere in the world. As of this writing we have just over 60 people confirmed to attend the two events that start Friday evening with a BBQ at the Biggar Golf Course.

Saturday, the group has booked the Biggar Community Hall where they will enjoy the day visiting with friends and family culminating with a banquet Saturday evening.

The group looks forward to re-connecting with the town where they were raised so if you see a few strange faces reach out your hand and say hello.

New program to beneÀt Saskatchewan’s historic downtowns Main Street Saskatchewan has been established as an on-going program aimed at preserving historic downtowns.

“Our historic downtowns and commercial districts are centres of pride in our province,” Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Mark Docherty said. “Through its new, on-going program, Main Street Saskatchewan will work with communities to promote, conserve and capitalize on the things that make these areas unique. By helping create jobs, businesses, and areas for cultural experience, this new program will improve our quality of life and contribute to the remarkable growth we’re experiencing across the province.”

The new Main Street program will provide two levels of participation: Accredited and Af-

filiate. Accredited communities are eligible to receive all benefits and services offered by the Main Street program, including training and advisory services, support in developing their streetscape design guidelines, eligibility for three matching grant streams, and a one-time, $25,000 matching grant to assist the community in developing their long-term vision and work plan for the downtown.

Communities selected at an Affiliate level will receive a package of benefits which includes eligibility for the capacity building grant and some training and advisory services. Following the deadline for applications to the Main Street Saskatchewan program, two new Accredited communities and an unlimited number of Affiliate communities will be selected.

The decision to continue the Main Street program was based on the success of its demonstration program. The program was launched in 2011 and included the communities of Indian Head, Maple Creek, Prince Albert and Wolseley. Over the past three years, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested $1.65 million in these communities. With the help of such investments, these communities combined have seen 66 new jobs created, 22 new businesses opened, $4.9 million committed to historic building and streetscape improvements and $6.5 million in property acquisitions.

“Participating in the Main Street Saskatchewan Program has helped our community better understand the connection between heritage conservation, first im-

pressions, tourism and economic development,” Maple Creek Main Street Program Coordinator Royce Pettyjohn said. “There is a much better appreciation of the role that culture and heritage plays not only in local pride, but in the long-term sustainability of our community. Conservation of our community’s past is helping us build our community’s future.”

Main Street Saskatchewan is a communitydriven program that works to revitalize historic downtowns and commercial districts. It combines community organizations, economic restructuring, heritage conservation and design, marketing and promotion to conserve and capitalize on the unique strengths and assets of Saskatchewan communities.

GAS PRICES AT THE PUMP… Wednesday, July 23, 2014, 10:30 p.m. (stations randomly selected)

Biggar .............................................127.9¢/L Duperow Cardlock .........................124.9¢/L Perdue… .........................................124.9¢/L Landis Cardlock… .........................128.9¢/L Rosetown… ....................................128.9¢/L North Battleford….........................125.9¢/L Unity...............................................127.9¢/L Saskatoon .......................................123.9¢/L Humboldt .......................................125.9¢/L Lloydminster ..................................122.9¢/L Kindersley ......................................127.9¢/L Swift Current .................................127.9¢/L

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4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Saskatchewan has too many oxpeckers

by Colin Craig, Saskatchewan Taxpayers Federation Mutualism is a term that describes a relationship where two organisms have a close, mutually beneficial relationship.

One well-known example in the animal world would be the rhinoceros and oxpecker. The latter being the type of bird often captured in photos perched on a rhino’s back. The bird benefits as a rhino’s hide is often full of ticks and they make for tasty treats. The rhino benefits as it gets free health care courtesy of the bird.

The relationship between taxpayers and governments should be similar. A healthy large body of taxpayers (a rhino) should pay reasonable tax rates (ticks) to the government in exchange for services from government employees (oxpeckers).

The problem in Saskatchewan is that despite positive reforms by the Wall government to downsize the provincial bureaucracy, the rhino is still overwhelmed with oxpeckers on its back in this province. The ticks have been eaten up and the oxpeckers are slowing down the host and looking for more.

In other words, Saskatchewan has too many government employees and taxpayers are paying higher taxes as a result.

The latest Statistics Canada figures show that as of March 2014, approximately 20.7 per cent of people working in Canada are employed by

the government in one form or another. Yet, in Saskatchewan the number is noticeably higher; 24.7 per cent.

In fact, both figures are up from 15 years ago – when 19.1 per cent of Canadians worked for the government and ‘only’ 23.5 per cent of Saskatchewan workers received a government pay cheque.

If you drill down on the numbers even further and look at just those employed by the provincial government and provincial institutions (schools, hospitals, universities, but not including crown corporations) you’ll find that 9.33 per cent of all Saskatchewanians work for such bodies; 37.2 per cent higher than the national average.

By comparison, 6.34 per cent of British Columbians and 5.92 per cent of Albertans work for the provincial government and provincial institutions.

It should be pointed out that the Wall government has been doing a good job of reducing the number of employees working in government ministries. The province’s 2013 budget speech noted: “We are on track to achieve our four-year target of reducing the public service workforce by 15 per cent – more than 1,900 positions — including 600 positions in 2013-14.”

The problem seems to be with school boards, universities and health regions. As the Wall government provides funding to each of them annually, the Premier should tell them “we’ve made

hard decisions to reduce redundant positions, now it’s time for you to do the same.”

Thankfully, there’s a simple and pain-free way for universities, school boards and health regions to deal with the situation; retirements. Over the coming decade, a massive wave of retirements are set to take place in Saskatchewan as the baby boomers start to retire. As those employed in not-so-essential positions retire, don’t rehire for the positions.

Reducing the number of paper-pushers would allow the government to either reduce taxes or direct more money towards services people care about; fixing roads, repairing bridges and front-line health care services to name a few.

One thing is for certain, somehow other provinces are delivering similar services and getting by with fewer oxpeckers. It’s time for Saskatchewan to follow suit.

Investors’ Supreme uncertainty

by Niels Veldhuis, Fraser Institute President and Ravina Bains, Associate Director of the Fraser Institute Centre for Aboriginal Policy Studies.

The Supreme Court of Canada’s recent judgment on Aboriginal title for the Tsilhqot’in First Nation in British Columbia should be of great concern to all Canadians. This judgment will significantly increase the level of uncertainty in Canada’s natural resource sector and will likely deter investment and exploration in Canada.

More than 12 per cent of Canada’s economic output is directly generated by resource development (i.e. energy, forestry, and mining). These industries are leading sources of stable, high-paying jobs and unless these uncertainties can be mitigated by purposeful government action, Canada’s economic future looks bleaker.

Unfortunately much of the analysis of the

Tsilhqot’in judgment, such as that by McMillian lawyer and former Deputy Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources in British Columbia, Robin Junger, misses the most important impact of these judgments - the increased riskiness of investing in Canada’s natural resource sector.

When investors examine potential opportunities, they spend considerable time evaluating exposure to various risks, including business, economic, political, and exchange rate risk. Many of these risks can be managed and mitigated through insurance and hedging. Others, such as political risk, can leave a business exposed to uncertainty that simply cannot be controlled or mitigated.

Uncertainty is one of the biggest barriers to business investment since it is difficult if not impossible to manage (this is distinct from risk, which can be managed when understood

properly). One of the main implications of the recent Supreme Court of Canada judgment is that it increases uncertainty in Canada’s natural resource sectors in areas lacking treaties with First Nations.

Where treaties exist, some degree of certainty remains. For example, the July 11(th) Grassy Narrows Supreme Court of Canada judgment upheld the Ontario government’s right to “take up” and issue resource licenses on lands covered under historic Treaty 3. The stark contrast between this and the Tsilhqot’in judgment demonstrates the importance of negotiated settlements and treaties when trying to advance resource development in Canada.

The Tsilhoqt’in judgment represents the first time in Canadian history a declaration of Aboriginal title has been granted outside an Indian reserve. And unlike previous judgments, the Tsilhqot’in ruling states

that Aboriginal title can extend to all traditional territories and is not limited to specific village sites.

Even more important, once Aboriginal title has been recognized, project development requires the consent of the First Nation that holds title, except where the government can demonstrate a compelling and substantial public purpose for the project.

If there is a project on Aboriginal title land not supported by the First Nation, even if it has long existed, then according to the Tsilhqot’in judgment, the government “may be required to cancel the project ... if continuation of the project would be unjustifiably infringing.”

Ultimately the courts will decide the merits of each claim and the precise amount of land deemed to have “Aboriginal title” but the reality is this litigious path creates incredible uncertainty for investors and will likely be a tipping

point whereby investment capital deems Canada too risky to justify investment.

Put differently, there is little question the Supreme Court judgment will put a freeze on exploration and investment in mining, energy and other natural resources until clarity and some certainty emerge.

For example, since this judgment was released, the Gitxsan First Nations in British Columbia moved to enforce their claim to traditional territory by serving eviction notices to logging companies, sport fishermen and CN Rail to vacate their traditional territory along the Skeena River, citing the Tsilhqot’in judgment as justification.

So in provinces such as British Columbia, where over 100% of the land is under claim by First Nations, resource projects currently under development or already in operation may be at risk due to Aboriginal title.

Canada is a small exporting country with world-class natural resource deposits but we live in an increasingly global world and must compete with other jurisdictions for investment. In mining for example, many other jurisdictions are equally if not more attractive to investors than Canada, including Western Australia, Nevada, Finland, Alaska, and Sweden.

The Tsilhqot’in judgment makes Canada even less attractive by markedly increasing the risk of investment because of the uncertainties linked to this legal decision. The federal and provincial governments along with Aboriginal leaders must recognize the enormously destructive implications of foregone investment for all Canadians and move to mitigate the uncertainties created by the Supreme Court decisions.

www.biggarindependent.ca

Phone: 306-948-3344

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 - Tom Larson

E-mail: tip@sasktel.net

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, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

Indian, Chinese, Japanese, German, Ukrainian, pastries, ice cream -- if it exists in home kitchens or restaurants, it can be made and sold in a food truck. However, the top three most frequently listed items on the menu are sandwiches, burgers and Mexican food.

Canadians have their own favourties depending on where they live. In Calgary three top picks were Cheezy Business, The Naaco Truck, and Red Wagon Diner. The foods served sound delicious -grilled cheese sandwich, home-made pulled pork, bacon jam, naan, spiced chickpea fritters, butter chicken, spicy beef vindaloo, smoked meat sandwiches served on rye and topped with grilled onions and tomatoes. Makes your mouth water doesn’t it?

Beware of scams This happened to one local computer user, no names – no pack drill, who unfortunately was having problems with their PC. This person allowed access to their PC and gave their credit card details away.

Fortunately they were able to stop the card before anything was spent on it and Burnt Orange Solutions was able to clean up the PC afterwards.

The scam What is happening here is the technician is trying to gain your trust by saying he is from Microsoft, he will then access your PC and will do one of two things: 1. Will tell you that you have issues which you do not and charge you for the privilege of him doing nothing for an hour.

2. Will access your data and steal banking/credit card details et cetera.

Now although many professional computer support providers do offer remote support you will no doubt already have a relationship with this business and can trust them. However, Microsoft and other big computer companies will not call you out of the blue and offer support.

EVER. Please, if you do receive a phone call/ email or any other invite similar to this, be polite but firm and just say no.

As always, any questions please do not hesitate to call me.

This month’s tip for Windows 8: Group apps The Start screen apps are initially displayed in a fairly random order, but it you’d prefer a more organized life then it’s easy to sort them into custom groups.

You might drag People, Mail, Messaging

and Calendar over to the left-hand side, for instance, to from a separate ‘People’ group.

Click the ‘minus’ icon in the bottom right corner of the screen to zoom out and you’ll now find you can drag and drop the new group (or any of the others) around as a block. Right-click within the block (while still zoomed out) and you’ll also be able to give the group a name, which – if you go on to add another 20 or 30 apps to your Start screen – will make it much easier to find the tools you need.

Solution on page 16

calling?

At H&R Block, we’re open all year long to help: Q with tax advice Q amend a return Q interpret a letter from the CRA

Because when the CRA starts talking, it’s nice to have someone who speaks the language.

223 Main Street, Box 580 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 Phone: 306-948-2183 © H&R Block Canada, Inc. ƚ ƉĂƌƟĐŝƉĂƟŶŐ ŽĸĐĞƐ͘

The Majestic Theatre, Biggar AUGUST

Í

Friday, AUGUST 1, Saturday, AUGUST 2, Sunday, AUGUST 3 8:00 p.m.

by Gareth McKee Microsoft will not call you.

I have been prompted to rewrite this article as it seems the helpful computer monsters are on the prowl again.

A number of current clients (four businesses and three home users) have been contacted by ‘Microsoft’ or other computer support providers over the past week. The conversation goes something like this: ‘Technician’: Hi, my name is James, I am from Microsoft.

We have noticed there is something wrong with your computer and we would like to fix it.

User: Oh, okay, this is very good of you, what do I have to do?

‘Technician’: Please download this software, I will then take control of your PC and you can leave the rest to me.

Use: Okay.

What the ‘User’ should have said is obviously not printable here, and thankfully my clients did not let the technician from ‘Microsoft’ anywhere near the PC. Another way for them to gain access to your system is by email.

I$ the taxman

“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” Genre: Action

to the economy is approximately $700 million per year. These entrepreneurs are creating jobs. It is estimated that 150 food trucks will create more than 500 full time jobs in the community. Very often the chefs will go on to open their own restaurant in a “brickand-mortar” building.

There are spinoff businesses that benefit from these food trucks.

Consider this, those businesses that are in the business of making vehicle wraps have seen a hike of 20 to 40 per cent in their revenues.

Think of all the employees that need to be hired in this industry.

If you think the only food served on these trucks is burgers and fries, think again. Anything and everything is being sold from a truck. All sorts of ethnic foods -- Mexican,

These trucks often move around the town.

So, if you want to support your favourite you really need to download an app.

The majority let their customers know where they can be found via social media, specifically Facebook and Twitter.

But, there are a few apps out there that will track the mobile restaurants and let you know where they can be found. Don’t underestimate the power of loyalty as that is often the case, especially if the owner connects with his, or her, customers on a personal level. (In fact, in some communities food trucks are required to move every 30 minutes so finding them on any one day can be a bit tricky).

For some reason Monday is a particularly busy day for the trucks.

Maybe it is because no one wants to cook after a relaxing weekend. At any rate if you live in or work in a city that has a booming food truck industry then your food choices have increased greatly.

Í

Meals on Wheels.

No, I’m not talking about the volunteers that deliver meals to shut-ins but rather the growing phenomenon of food trucks.

The idea of serving food out of the window of a truck to customers is somehow appealing.

One that has elevated the food truck industry to what has become one of the fastest growing industries across the country, one might say the continent.

There are over three million food trucks in Canada and the U.S. The majority of these are located in larger centres where there is more population. As with everything else, it’s all about location, location, location. About 2.5 billion people per day eat street food.

Overall estimated revenue that food trucks contribute

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

Rated PG

For bookings and information please phone Bear Hills RDC @ 306-948-2295 This space is courtesy of The Biggar Independent

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

by Bob Mason

Echos Conversations are really a good thing I feel, but they don’t mean very much if there isn’t a good listener too!

Those conversations are all over and around us every day, and people need them, (especially listeners!). As a matter of fact, most of us would never learn anything if one didn’t listen!

School teachers would be obsolete and “swan songs” the only ones ever sung!

So much for things we already know, eh?

Yours Truly isn’t up on all the “way back”, archaeological stuff the way he should be mebbe, but there has always been a world of sound around us, and we all should be grateful for

the things our world has to say.

It crossed my mind the other day (and like Y.T. has said before, it doesn’t take very long to cross his mind!), that there are even a few “man-made” sounds that have almost disappeared!

Mebbe it is a sign of old age, eh? Mebbe so, everyone seems to think that Y.T. talks too much, but get this, even the world all around us, has a lot to say, too, and Y.T. is proud that in his youth he listened quite a bit!

Being a kind of intellectual hermit (a person who thinks that their ideas are always right!), Yours Truly often finds himself sitting at his desk, wondering about things like this, so

lend an ear, eh?

There are a lot of sounds that our young people will probably never hear anymore.

The “Clop! Clop! Clop!” of a horse on a dusty road.

The squeal of sleighrunners on a frosty trail.

A coyote crying to the stars. Or a meadow lark greeting them as they go to work each morning.

Having sat on “Coffee Row” many times, Y.T. realized that listening is a lot more informative than telling!

Mebbe a lot of people (including Yours Truly!), don’t exactly agree with this line of thinking – but “lend us an ear” anyway!

The sounds of the world trying to tell us that our time has been worth living can’t be ignored, eh?

There must be hundreds of stories told describing the songs that our rural telephone lines used to sing!

Long ago someone even drew a sketch of a native bow standing beside a telephone pole listening to the strange sound that it made.

One moonless night when Walt and Y.T. were lost, the singing sound of a far off telephone line

.

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Often it took Dad all day to make that long trip, and on a cold winter morning (as we started off to school!), we could hear the sound of those runners getting ever farther away! And when he came home in the late afternoon, often we were listening and waiting!

To us little fellows in those days wealth and possessions weren’t big things on our list of priorities, but that sound of Dad coming safely home, was at the very top of it!

Regardless of what Dickens wrote about “The Best of Times”, ours were certainly during those years of boyhood in Great Bend!

Mebbe Y.T. seems kind of crazy to even mention things like this, but his generation valued some of the sounds of his times, just as much (or even more!) than the “now” generation values their iPods and TVs! It is no news to anyone, that we are fast losing any contact we had with nature.

“– and, as we closed our eyes and dreamed, lulled off by the far-off coyotes cry!

We were a welcome part it seemed – of all the

rest, old Tex and I –“ If a couple of young lovers are looking for a thrill, all they have to do is park way out there, back of beyond, when a pack of coyotes start to yell!

In that parkland country where we used to live, a chorus of “yip, yip, yips!”, was almost a nightly thing. We don’t hear coyotes calling like that anymore and sometimes it seems to me that part of our world has gone! Sorry about that! And often Y.T. wonders if we were meant to value things like that!

In a sad sort of way, Y.T. doesn’t want to mention this very much, but he always felt that he was “somebody”, when that meadow lark greeted him every morning! We only hear the odd one on city streets anymore, and many people wonder why old Yours Truly goes golfing early in the morning!

The “men’s apparel” people claim that “the clothes make the man!” and mebbe they are right!

But Y.T. has always thought that the sounds of the world do it better!

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put us right with the world again!

We grew up with a few strange sounds like that!

Mebbe we didn’t know why they were made, but all time feeling that the world was talking to us. Talking about time, mebbe, saying a few things that Y.T. feels he has to put on this page!

Of course with cellphones and buried cable, that sound is fast becoming a thing of the past, but the world is still talking!

“Sleigh runners squealing on the trail The sun is up, the moon is pale The Mercury goes down the scale It stops at 45!

The silent Sun-Dogs stand on guard Above a white world frozen hard.

Too cold to be alive!

The sound of sleigh runners “squealing” on the frozen snow, is fast becoming a thing of our past too!

So that he wouldn’t be all sweated up, Dad always filled his sleighbox full of grain in the afternoon, so that the next morning he could take off for town, all bundled up in his big coat for comfort!

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by Carmen McGregor BSP, Biggar Pharmasave How can diabetes hurt my feet?

People with diabetes are at risk for bad foot infections. There are many reasons for this. Too much sugar in the blood for a long time can cause people with diabetes to have nerve damage and have to have less feeling in their feet.

You may not feel pain, or hot or cold.

When you have less feeling in your feet, you might hurt your foot and not even know it. Also, if you have less feeling in your feet, you may begin to walk a little bit different which can cause calluses.

These calluses sometimes get infected.

Another reason is that if you have diabetes, there can be less blood flow to your legs and feet. This might make it hard for a sore on your feet to get better.

What happens if I get a sore on my foot.

People with diabetes can get a sore on their foot and not even know it. If the sore gets infected and you do not get antibiotics, it could get worse and worse. Sometimes the sore will never heal. Sometimes the sore gets gangrene.

If this happens, the sore may get black and smell bad. To keep gangrene from getting worse, the doctor may need to cut off the toes or foot.

How should I take care of my feet?

There are a few things to do to keep your feet from getting a sore. These are: • Check your feet every day. Look for sores, cuts, blisters or redness, especially in between the toes. If you cannot see your feet, use a mirror to check them or have a family member or friend check them for you.

• Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash them with warm (not hot) water every day. Remember, you may not know the water is too hot if you just put your feet in it. To check the water, dip your elbow in the water.

• Make sure your toenails are cut.

Cut them after a bath when they are soft.

Cut them in the shape of your toes and not too short.

• Gently file corns and calluses after your bath or shower. Use a pumice stone or an emery board.

• If you don’t have good feeling in your feet, go to a foot doctor to get your toenails cut.

Also, the foot doctor will file corns or calluses.

• Don’t let your feet get too dry or cracked.

If they are too dry, rub moisturizer on them after you get out of the shower or bath.

• Go to your foot doctor regularly.

• Do not walk barefoot.

Always wear shoes or slippers.

• Do not wear your shoes without socks. Socks will keep your feet dry and help protect them from sores or cuts.

• Make sure your shoes fit well so you don’t get blisters or sores.

What else can I do so I don’t get a foot infection?

There are a few other things you can do to keep from getting a foot infection.

These are: • Keep your blood sugar under control.

Too much sugar in the blood can feed germs that cause a foot infection.

• Stop smoking. Smoking can decrease the blood flow to your legs and feet.

• If you see any changes in your feet, tell your health care provider right away.

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

Report from the Legislature Big Opportunity Saskatchewan might be small in size but it’s big in opportunity. Thanks to the vision and hard work of a dynamic, driven and growing population, our province stands out as a great place to live, work, play and invest. We see this in the latest figures from Statistics Canada.

Saskatchewan is home to one of Canada’s best economies, a competitive business environment, innovative entrepreneurs and a skilled and hardworking labour force. Our province has more fulltime jobs than ever before, more people working than ever before and Canada’s lowest unemployment rate for the 18th consecutive month.

The benefits of a strong economy is increasing wages for working people. Wages in Saskatchewan are steadily increasing. In fact, earlier this year, wages hit an all-time high. This, along with our quality of life, is key to both recruiting and retaining our skilled workforce.

Saskatchewan is home to many historic downtowns and commercial districts, many of which are a point of pride. Recognizing this, our government has announced that Main Street Saskatchewan will be an ongoing program. This will involve working with

communities to promote, conserve and capitalize on the things that make these areas unique.

The decision to continue with Main Street Saskatchewan was based on the success of a threeyear pilot project. Launched in 2011, it saw the Ministry of Parks, Culture and Sport partner with the communities of Prince Albert, Maple Creek, Indian Head and Wolseley. By investing $1.65 million, these communities have seen the creation of 22 new businesses, 66 new jobs, $4.9 million committed to historic building and streetscape improvements and $6.5 million in property acquisitions. You can learn more at www.pcs.gov.sk.ca/MainStreet.

Beautiful scenery, friendly people and relaxing, easy-going pace – there is nothing quite like summer in Saskatchewan. With endless attractions and activities, the only difficulty is deciding what to do. For many, the season brings quality time in our Provincial Parks.

Our parks are a great place to relax and go hiking, biking, fishing and camping. Park users can also enjoy both music and theatre with Embrace Theatre and Saskatchewan Express touring throughout the summer. The Saskatchewan Archaeological Society is doing the same with its ArchaeoCaravan tour and

Canoe Kayak Saskatchewan and Sask Volleyball are also offering fun family programming, mini-camps and tournaments. You can visit saskparks.net for details.

Home to 3.7 million visits last year, our parks play a vital role in supporting our high quality life.

By investing in electrical expansion, new facilities and other upgrades, we’re enhancing the visitor experience and giving them good reason to return.

This year’s provincial budget increases funding for parks by 4.6 per cent and includes $14.9 million for upgrades and new construction.

The Ministry of Government Relations, in collaboration with various government ministries, agencies, Crown corporations and stakeholder groups, are providing updates on the key steps the province and its partners are taking in response to the record rainfall, flood and recovery operations occurring in eastern Saskatchewan. Details can be found online at Saskatchewan.ca. The contributions of all those who have helped to mitigate damage, restore access and recover cannot be overstated. We are truly thankful for their efforts.

If you have a question about this Legislative Report or any other matter, contact Randy Weekes.

New Horizons Activities Biggar New Horizons Projects operates a dropin centre for seniors. We provide a number of recreational, educational and social activities for seniors. The organization also owns and operates a Courtesy Car, which provides in town transportation for the members of New Horizons.

Benefit to the community: our facility is used by our own members on a regular basis.

We also have many organizations and people who use this facility for weddings, funerals, potluck dinners, elections (municipal and federal), flu vaccination clinics, Community Christmas, and many more events

that are too numerous to mention. The whole community (population 2500 plus rural) use this facility on a regular basis.

On June 20 a Kaiser card party was held in the hall with eight people in attendance. Mildred Henne was the host and also provided the lunch.

The scores were Pat Turner, 1st, Bill Fisher, 2nd, and Reg Turner, 3rd.

On June 27 a card party was held with 12 people in attendance.

Margaret Molberg was the host and also provided the lunch. Cribbage winners were Barb Swyryda, Ann Muc and Don Swyryda. Kaiser winners were Pat Turner,

Grant Gamble, and Reg Turner.

A cribbage tournament was held on July 4 with 10 people in attendance. Joanne Kral provided the lunch and was host for the afternoon.

First place Pat Turner, second place Joanne Kral and third place Don Swyryda and Marie Roesch.

A card party was held on July 11 with 14 people in attendance. Host of the afternoon was Joyce Colbert and she also provided the lunch. Kaiser winners were Mildred Henne, Marie Roesch and Joanne Kral. Cribbage winners were Donna Hoogeveen, Ann Muc and Barb Swyryda.

The monthly birthday potluck for July took place on July 14 with 34 in attendance. Joanne Kral was the MC for the afternoon. The birthday cake was provided by Elsie Jean Dyck. The afternoon was spent listening to music of Leon Ochs and his band from Landis.

A Kaiser tournament was held on July 18 with 11 in attendance. First place to Joyce Colbert, second place Reg Turner and third place Gord Besse. Ron Arnold was the host and Joise Kerr provided the lunch.

Bingo was played on June 26 with 15 players.

The caller for the afternoon was Chris Ogrodnick with Kate Yaroshko picking up the tickets and Anita Beckstead

looking after the cash.

Lunch was provided by Karen Itterman.

The half-n-half winners were Barb Swyryda and Margaret Molberg with Barb Swyryda and Florence Hammond winning the blackout.

The Monday Kaiser Club which are a separate group from the regular activities of New Horizons play Kaiser every Monday afternoon in the hall. The group is organized amongst the members of the Kaiser Club.

You do not need to be a member of New Horizons to play Monday afternoon Kaiser. The June 23 scores were: Reg Turner, Geoff Cooke, Ken Pearce, Joanne Kral. HSG Joanne Kral and Reg Turner. There were four tables in play on June 23.

June 30 had three tables in play with Joanne Kral, Gord Besse, Grant Gamble, Agnes Watson.

HSG Gord Besse and Pat Turner. July 7 had four tables in play with Ken Pearce, Marie Roesch, Gord Besse, Helen Kanz.

HSG Pat and Reg Turner.

The courtesy car made 425 trips in the month of June with 49 members using the car. The cost per ticket is $2.00.

If anyone has any ideas for senior activities that in the New Horizons could possibly provide please feel free to contact the executive members of the Board: Don Swyryda, chairperson; Geoff Cooke, past chairperson; Ron Arnold, first vice chairperson and Jim Tapp, second vice chairperson.

(some exceptions apply)

uly 2 ins J

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THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Wild boar populations pose a serious threat to agriculture

by Calvin Daniels

I was reading recently about the concerns from a University of Saskatchewan researcher regarding the risk wild boar pose in Saskatchewan.

We have already seen an impact of the introduced species in Manitoba.

But, Ryan Brook painted a much bleaker picture to come in a recent Western Producer story.

Brook sees the potential of wild boar numbers to explode based on their ability to produce sizeable litters up to twice a year.

The ability to

reproduce, coupled with an abundant food supply across the grain growing region of the Prairies, and limited, if any natural predators, is certainly a recipe for potential problems.

Now it would be easy to point the fingers of blame in this scenario.

There are the farmers, some of whom simply left gates open to rid themselves of a livestock enterprise which failed to live up to its proposed potential.

In other cases poor fences or the natural ability of pigs to escape enclosures led to their introduction to the wilds

here.

Then there are the officials who originally determined wild boar could be raised as livestock without recognizing the threat they posed.

But let’s be realistic here. It has been the lot of humankind to do a poor job of managing wildlife.

We have managed to shoot to extinction the passenger pigeons in spite of historic references to massive flocks of tens of thousands at one time.

We drove the bison from the wild because we coveted its rangeland for cattle.

We nearly saw the black-footed ferret follow the passenger pigeon to the pages of history books. It was only by sheer luck a small wild population survived and while breeding programs have grown numbers, and facilitated a reintroduction to Southern Saskatchewan, the species is by no means guaranteed a

long term future.

While I myself am a happy carp fisherman, many on the Prairies curse the rough fish which of course is an introduced one to our waters, as are all trout stocks in the province where no true trout species is a natural resident.

And the list goes on.

The burrowing owl is threatened by the impacts of man.

The wolf is basically gone from the grainlands of the Prairies, hunted out of the picture because they were once seen as a threat to livestock production.

Today, if the wolf remained, they might be a natural predator to wild boar numbers.

So while we should be concerned about wild pigs, the crop damage they can cause, and the potential to cause much

more damage if numbers explode, we also need to realize blame lies with humankind’s arrogance.

We seem to always think we can manage nature better than nature can manage itself.

Whether it’s arrogantly trying to manicure the water flows of the region, or dealing with wildlife, we constantly come up short, and are left scrambling to deal with our mistakes.

Crop report for the period July 8 to 14 Warm and relatively dry weather continues to help haying progress and crop development in many areas. Livestock producers now have 25 per cent of the 2014 hay crop cut and 15 per cent baled or put into silage, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s weekly Crop Report. Seventeen per cent is rated as excellent in quality, 74 per cent good, eight per cent fair and one per cent poor.

Recent warm weather has helped many crops recover from flooding stress, but some areas continue to deal with excess moisture. The majority of crops are in

fair to excellent condition, but many are behind normal developmental stages. Fifty per cent of fall cereals, 57 per cent of spring cereals and 61 per cent of oilseeds are behind normal stages of development, while 54 per cent of pulses are at normal stages of development for this time of year.

Rainfall this week ranged from trace amounts to 65 mm in the Moosomin area; however, there are some reports of even more rainfall in that area. Topsoil moisture conditions continue to improve in many areas, although other areas will soon need moisture to help crops advance.

Across the province, topsoil moisture on cropland is rated as 17 per cent surplus, 73 per cent adequate and 10 per cent short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 13 per cent surplus, 74 per cent adequate, 11 per cent short and two per cent very short.

Localized flooding, hail and wind have caused the most crop damage this past week. Many producers are reporting damage from cutworms, wheat midge and grasshoppers and from diseases such as leaf spots and root rots.

Farmers are busy haying and controlling diseases and insects.

Staying safe in bear country: Do you know what to do?

Residents of Saskatchewan should be mindful of bears when enjoying the outdoors this summer.

Saskatchewan has a healthy bear population and it is not unusual to see bears in the wild at this time of year.

Bears have been known to wander through campgrounds, so proper food storage, cooking methods, and garbage handling are essential for safe camping.

Residents are also being reminded to never feed or approach a bear.

There have been a few encounters this year and we want to ensure residents are taking the necessary precautions when they are out enjoying our parks, campgrounds and natural areas,” Director of Compliance and Field Services with the Ministry of Environment Kevin Callele said.

“Generally bears are attracted by food and if they cannot find food they will often leave the area. Bears that have been fed lose their natural fear for humans. When bears start to associate food with humans, they become a nuisance, and potentially dangerous.”

The following are safety precautions to help stay safe in bear country: Encounters:

• Never feed or approach a bear or bear cubs.

• If you encounter a bear, calmly back away, speak in low tones, and do not look directly at the bear.

• Do not run – you can’t outrun a bear.

• Move toward a large structure like a tree or a rock.

• As a last resort, drop bags/backpacks - it may distract the bear.

• In most cases black bears will threaten but not attack. If attacked, defend yourself – do not ‘play dead’.

In a campground: • Never cook or eat in your tent.

• Store food in air-tight containers in the trunk of your vehicle, not in tents or tent-trailers.

• Don’t leave garbage, scraps, or pet food lying around. Place all garbage in the containers provided; do not burn or bury scraps.

• Clean fish only at designated fishcleaning stations.

• Keep your pet on a leash or inside your vehicle. An unleashed dog may aggravate a bear.

• Use a flashlight at night; do not move about the campsite at night unless necessary.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

If these walls could talk . . .

Memories of the CN Station

by Bill Dafoe, Perdue

I read in The Independent today where CN is looking at demolishing their station. From the pictures in the paper, I guess, sadly, that time has come. A picture is worth a thousand words and the expose on Page Two says it all. The time has come to bid adieu to our beloved lady on Main Street and bring down the curtain on another chapter of Biggar’s early history.

Trains travelling along the track in both directions had to know when to pull over on a siding. Failure to do so meant the difference, perhaps of life and death.

Trains going non-stop past the station got their orders by the engineer sticking his arm out the window and the station agent would have a large hoop on a handle with the orders attached and the engineer would catch

the electronic till, orders where tallied up on the fly in their heads. To add to the confusion, it was conveniently located between the two largest hotels in town.

Then there were the passengers and their families both waiting to welcome the incoming travellers and those who were leaving for other points along the rail line. The passengers were a motley bunch, finely dressed ladies and

it on his arm and proceed on his way. As if there wasn’t enough confusion, sometimes passenger trains had to be made up because there were more passengers added than seats on the incoming train. Cars had to be uncoupled, and shunted about on the sidings to add a car or two and then retrieve the cars on the side line, and then the train recoupled. Trains ran on time or someone was in trouble.

In the baggage area, the baggage handlers were hauling out wagons of freight to go . . . cans of cream, eggs, pigs in crates, boxes of chicks, mail, luggage, canaries, puppies, bodies in caskets . . . all the stuff that trains hauled in those days. If it were a passenger train, newspapers for the Newsies to sell up and down the aisles.

Baggage handlers had to be fast! Not only did baggage have to be loaded but freight. groceries, flowers, medicine, other incoming mail and supplies had to be offloaded in the time the train was scheduled to stop. In their spare time they had to sort the baggage to see that it got on the right trains and deal with the customers bringing in or picking up their parcels and freight.

On the other side of the station Biggar boasted a beanery that was open 24 hours. It was there to feed the rail workers, the passengers and their guests, towns folk, as well as the local train watchers that just wanted to be sociable.

It served up barrels of coffee, in season, the best banana cream pie a young farm boy could imagine, and whatever could be wanted from the menu. These workers had to be wizards who could assemble an order and sling hash, faster than most customers could think. Forget

gentlemen from large estates in Europe, remittance men looking about bewildered by the commotion, Europeans eager to escape conditions back home, newcomers looking for adventure or a new start in a new land, where a farm could be had for a pittance and plenty of sweat, noisy children, farmer families and grubby workmen. During the war years soldiers, some barely out of childhood, bravely waved good by to the ones and the country they loved. Some were soldiers of fortune, others there solely to serve King and country or just to get a job to feed hungry bellies here at home. Some would never see this station again.

Sometimes it would be a demure smiling war bride or “mail order” bride, stepping off the train and into the waiting arms of Prince Charming. The waiting room could be quite crowded.These weren’t no smoking days. The air hung heavy with the smell of chewing tobacco, and smoke, belching out from roll your owns, pipes and thick cigars. When it was empty the waiting room smelled of of stale smoke and lemon oil polish .

This station saw King George and Queen Mother Elizabeth, as well as the current Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh pass through admiring throngs of cheering subjects. But perhaps the greatest trains, in the eyes of the young, were the brightly coloured cars of the circus trains that passed through town each summer. The circus performers loved to tease and visit with the people on the platform.

The circus was in town if even for just minutes! Clowns would sometimes tumble out of the cars and ladies in the beautiful costumes of the trapeze artists. Show bills might be handed out. Could we maybe see an elephant? What if a lion got loose? All too soon it was over. The whistle blew, the bells clanged, the big drivers hissed in a cloud of steam and the magic was over.

This tired old Grand Dame saw it all. It was a hub of activity offering work, supplies and hope to a growing country spiced with a myriad of smells and a cacophony of sounds.

Just as the Statue of Liberty, she said,

“The time has come,” the walrus said, “to talk of many things . . .”

My grandfathers worked to lay the steel that eventually would go through Biggar. The big hub at that time was Leney, just south of Perdue. It was a thriving metropolis.

Grandfather Dafoe hauled supplies for the railroad from Saskatoon by horse and wagon. Draying was big business.

Finally the steel poked through Keppel, Vance. All these places are no more but were important to the running of the railroad. Each stop had a water tank and a coal dock.

Those old locomotives were a hungry lot. The whistle would blow and with bells clanging, the engineer would open the throttle and the large drivers, would grab hold and with steam hissing, the train was off.

Steam provided the motive force but it was the poor old fireman who kept the fire burning. Shovel in hand, he would make the numerous trips between the coal tender and the firebox. The tender would have been loaded at the coal dock along with water from the tank. The grade between Vance and Biggar was steep and required a good head of steam to get into the Biggar station. Biggar was the end of the eastern division and the beginning of the western.

It was said that a fireman might have taken on a fair belly of booze himself but between Biggar and Vance he would shovel himself sober.

Biggar was an oasis in a prairie landscape.

The elegant station which was on of the largest in western Canada, was surrounded on both sides by a park of shady trees bordering manicured lawns with beds of brightly

coloured flowers.

The old station was a hub of activity. The station agent would be looking at his watch and shouting out orders. The crew would be changing, engineer, conductor, fireman, etc. The telegraph operator would be frantically tapping out Morse Code and writing messages down, and the call boys would be milling around and looking at the board to see who they had to call for duty.

There were no telephones in the early days and they were the pony express trying to get the crews together and on time. They would check out who to call from the massive “call board” and then go out the the crew member’s home and call them for work.

Their efforts here were aided by a large clock that diligently ticked off the minutes and was set by telegraph messages that were sent from a central time center. Engineers and workers made it their priority to check with the clock.

“With silent lips. “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, . . .”

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Biggar Swim Meet results – July 12 Avery Anderson (8): 1:14.99s, 50 Back; 1:08.53s, 50 Free; 31.72s, 25 Back; 31.92s, 25 Free.

Ryder Anderson (10): 2:32.06s, 100 Back, 3rd; 1:23.31s DQ, 50 Breast; 2:11.65s, 100 Free; 1:07.74s, 50 Back; 58.27s, 50 Free.

Jasmine Applegate (9): 2:47.56s, 100 Back; 2:26.43s, 100 Free; 1:09.75s, 50 Back; 1:04.83s, 50 Free.

Jessica Auton (7): 1:19.82s, 50 Back; 1:30.50s, 50 Free; 39.94s, 25 Back; 39.79s, 25 Free.

Jordan Banhegy (9): 3:10.99s, 100 Back; 3:00.08s, 100 Free; 1:37.43s, 50 Back; 1:21.62s, 50 Free.

Astrid Derks (8): 2:20.04s, 50 Back; 1:58.67s, 50 Free; 1:08.17s, 25 Back; 55.07s, 25 Free.

Nola Derks (7): 1:12.14s, 50 Back, 3rd; 1:14.19s, 50 Free; 32.58s, 25 Back; 29.66s, 25 Free.

Cody Doering (8): 1:05.94s, 50 Back, 2nd; 41.00s, 25 Fly, 3rd; 52.37s, 25 Breast; 1:14.03s, 50 Free; 28.48s, 25 Back, 1st; 37.05s, 25 Free.

Madeline Ellard (11): 1:52.04s, 100 Back; 22.26s, 25 Fly; 1:43.12s, 100 Free; 2:19.00s, 100 Breast; 46.21s, 50 Free; 4:04.91s DQ, 200 IM. Annica Evanisky (7): 54.96s, 50 Back, 1st;

1:01.05s, 50 Free, 3rd; 26.48s, 25 Back, 2nd; 25.42s, 25 Free, 2nd.

Brody Fyson (9): 2:13.68s, 50 Back; DQ, 50 Free.

Raeann Gidluck (11): 2:15.70s, 100 Back; 25.91s, 25 Fly; 1:47.20s, 100 Free; 1:06.51s, 50 Fly; 2:19.63s, 100 Breast; 4:49.66s DQ, 200 IM. Tara Gidluck (9): 28.68s, 25 Fly; 1:44.98s, 100 Free; 1:00.83s, 50 Back; 2:30.14s, 100 Breast; 47.75s, 50 Free; 2:19:80s, 100 IM. Luke Gray (10): 2:53.24s, 100 Back; 3:05.32s, 100 Free; 1:18.72s DQ, 50 Back; 1:30.29s, 50 Free.

Tiara Keith (16): 39.69s, 50 Fly; 1:33.99s, 100 Fly, 2nd; 36.28s, 50 Free, 2nd; 3:33.31s, 200 IM. Isabelle Kitchen (8): 1:19.63s, 50 Back; 1:15.61s, 50 Free; 39.63s, 25 Back; 33.75s, 25 Free.

Rayel Martin (14): 3:18.97s, 200 Back; 43.62s, 50 Fly; 2:56.18s, 200 Free; 1:33.16s, 100 Back; 3:56.70s, 200 Breast; 3:24.10s, 200 IM. Gillian Massie (12): 1:36.86s, 100 Back, 2nd; 17.82s, 25 Fly; 1:22.53s, 100 Free; 41.12s, 50 Fly, 3rd; 1:57.79s, 100 Breast; 3:31.88s, 200 IM. Hayden McMahon (9): 2:01.13s, 100 Back, 1st; 25.65s, 25 Fly; 1:52.49s, 100 Free; 1:01.04s, 50 Fly,

Rosetown Swim Meet results – July 13 st Avery Anderson (8): 28.49s, 25 Free; 32.43s, 25 Back; 1:07.07s, 50 Free; 1:14.27s DQ, 50 Back; 40.12s, 25 Breast, 3rd.

Jessica Auton (7): 38.94s, 25 Free; 37.96s, 25 Back; 1:29.94s, 50 Free; 1:22.21s, 50 Back.

Astrid Derks (8): 52.03s, 25 Free; 1:06.41s,

25 Back; 2:09.28s, 50 Free; 2:17.41s, 50 Back.

Nola Derks (7): 30.05s, 25 Free; 31.18s, 25 Back; 1:18.77s, 50 Free; 1:15.59s, 50 Back.

Cody Doering (8): 30.32s, 25 Free; 28.01s, 25 Back, 1st; 1:12.68s, 50 Free; 48.32s DQ, 25 Fly; 1:08.51s, 50 Back, 1st;

58.58s DQ, 25 Breast.

Madeline Ellard (11): 54.99s DQ, 50 Fly; 19.57s, 25 Free; 27.22s, 25 Back; 22.72s DQ, 25 Fly; 30.63s, 25 Breast; 1:59.88s, 100 IM. Annica Evanisky (7): 23.63s, 25 Free, 3rd; 24.32s, 25 Back, 1st; 57.76s, 2nd; 57.24s, 50

Back, 1 .

Raeann Gidluck (11): 1:05.85s, 50 Fly; 20.45s, 25 Free; 2:16.25s, 100 Breast; 45.09s, 50 Free; 1:04.48s, 50 Back; 2:20.65s, 100 IM. Tara Gidluck (9): 20.28s, 25 Free; 31.12s, 25 Back; 1:09.55s, 50 Breast; 46.36s, 50 Free; 32.72s, 25 Fly; 2:21.32s, 100 IM. Tiara Keith (16): 1:39.72s, 100 Fly, 3rd; 16.46s, 25 Free; 21.40s, 25 Back; 16.95s, 25 Fly; 24.09s, 25 Breast; 1:35.23s, 100 IM. Rayel Martin (14): 16.17s, 25 Free; 19.98s,

2nd; 2:23.31s, 100 Breast; 2:04.83s, 100 IM. Emily Molberg (7): 1:21.16s, 50 Back; 1:16.53s, 50 Free; 37.08s DQ, 25 Back; 32.27s, 25 Free.

Toby Pearce (10): 1:56.85s, 50 Free.

Layne Redlich (9): 2:49.44s, 100 Back; 31.95s DQ, 25 Fly; 2:11.06s, 100 Free; 1:29.48s, 50 Back; 1:01.13s, 50 Free.

Autumn Reid (8): 1:15.37s DQ, 50 Back; 40.95s DQ, 25 Fly; 44.43s DQ, 25 Breast; 1:15.57s, 50 Free; 35.33s, 25 Back; 31.85s, 25 Free.

Tayler Sawrenko (15): 37.93s, 50 Fly, 2nd; 1:45.87s, 100 Breast; 1:34.51s, 100 Back, 3rd; 1:34.31s, 100 Fly, 3rd; 38.30s, 50 Free; 3:24.07s, 200 IM. Bailey Seidl (18): 33.02s, 50 Fly, 2nd; 1:33.65s, 100 Breast, 1st; 1:23.84s, 100 Back, 2nd; 1:20.74s, 100 Fly, 1st; 32.31s, 50 Free, 2nd; 2:55.86s, 200 IM; 1st.

Kennedy Sopczak (9): 2:52.28s, 100 Back; 2:50.97s, 100 Free; 1:23.71s, 50 Back; 1:21.95s, 50 Free.

Bessie Stone (12): 1:57.12s DQ, 100 Back; 27.81s, 25 Fly; 1:04.29s DQ, 50 Breast; 1:39.47s, 100 Free; 52.75s DQ, 50 Back; 43.30s, 50 Free.

Darrion Stone (8): DQ, 25 Back; 34.36s, 25 Free.

25 Back; 18.17s, 25 Fly; 1:33.59s, 100 Back; 24.86s, 25 Breast; 1:34.46s, 100 IM. Gillian Massie (12): 39.57s, 50 Fly, 2nd; 16.04s, 25 Free, 1st; 21.32s, 25 Back; 17.91s, 25 Fly 3rd; 25.05s, 25 Breast; 1:35.11s, 100 IM. Hayden McMahon (9): 1:02.03s, 50 Fly, 2nd; 1:04.45s, 50 Breast; 46.86s, 50 Free; 24.58s, 25 Fly; 1:01.18s, 50 Back; 2:02.63s, 100 IM, 3rd.

Layne Redlich (9): 24.86s, 25 Free; 28.79s, 25 Back; 1:03.45s, 50 Free; 38.40s DQ, 25 Fly;

1:29.72s, 50 Back.

Autumn Reid (8): 29.85s, 25 Free; 35.14s, 25 Back; 1:07.30s, 50 Free; 42.55s DQ, 25 Fly; 1:23.80s, 50 Back; 49.60s DQ, 25 Breast.

Tayler Sawrenko (15): 1:31.56s, 100 Fly, 1st; 16.45s, 25 Free; 20.69s, 25 Back; 16.64s, 25 Fly, 3rd; 22.85s, 25 Breast; 1:33.73s, 100 IM. Bailey Seidl (18): 1:20.87s, 100 Fly, 1st; 14.84s, 25 Free, 3rd; 18.75s, 25 Back, 3rd; 15.02s, 25 Fly, 1st; 19.48s, 25 Breast, 1st; 1:20.57s, 100 IM, 1st.

Swift Current Swim Meet results – July 5 Cody Doering (8): 1:02.04s, 50 Back, 2nd; 1:05.30s, 50 Free, 3rd; 27.19s, 25 Back, 2nd; 30.89s, 25 Free.

Raeann Gidluck (11): 2:15.33s, 100 Back; 26.68s, 25 Fly; 1:01.97s, 50 Breast; 1:49.20s, 100 Free; 4:35.57s DQ, 200 IM. Kelly Knox (17): 35.86s, 50 Free.

Hayden McMahon (9): DQ, 25 Fly; 1:02.94s, 50 Breast; 1:48.84s, 100 Free, 3rd; 2:18.27s, 100 Breast; 2:03.14s, 100 IM. Bailey Seidl (18): 33.57s, 50 Fly, 1st; 1:25.86s, 100 Back, 2nd; 1:21.16s, 100 Fly, 1st; 32.29s, 50 Free, 2nd; 3:00.17s, 200 IM, 1st.

Watrous Swim Meet results – July 6 Cody Doering (8): DQ, 50 Free; 27.21s, 25 Back, 2nd; 30.13s, 25 Free.

Madeline Ellard (11): 21.41s, 25 Fly; 1:40.58s, 100 Free; 2:04.73s, 100 Back, 2nd; 46.04s, 50 Free; 4:10.25s DQ, 200 IM. Daeann Gidluck (11): 1:01.06s, 50 Fly, 3rd; 2:20.14s, 100 Breast; 1:44.44s, 100 Free; 2:23.52s, 100 Back, 3rd; 4:49.34s DQ, 200 IM. Tara Gidluck (9): 31.54s, 25 Fly; 1:10.35s, 50 Breast; 1:02.14s, 50 Back;

52.72s, 50 Free; 2:15.24s, 100 IM. Kelley Knox (17): 35.58s, 50 Free, 1st.

Rayel Martin (14): 2:59.61s, 200 Free, 3rd; 1:39.60s, 100 Fly, 1st; 1:22,51s, 100 Free, 2nd; 3:25.45s, 200 Back, 1st; 3:23.45s, 200 IM, 3rd.

Hayden McMahon (9): 1:03.13s, 50 Fly, 1st; 1:09.43s, 50 Breast, 3rd; 1:57.06s, 100 Free, 2nd; 50.20s, 50 Free; 2:06.95s, 100 IM, 2nd.

Humboldt Swim Meet results – June 14 Cody Doering (8): 35.70s, 25 Free; 27.97s, 25 Back, 1st; 1:07.09s, 50 Free; 1:10.51s, 50 Back, 2nd.

Madeline Ellard (11): 19.87s, 25 Free; 26.77s, 25 Back; 25.20s, 25 Fly; 30.80s, 25 Breast; 2:01.85s DQ, 100 IM. Annica Evanisky (7): 26.32s, 25 Free; 26.20s, 25 Back, 2nd; 1:07.81s, 50 Free; 58.75s, 50 Back, 1st.

Raeann Gidluck (11): 1:05.95s, 50 Breast; 21.77s, 25 Free; 30.35s, 25 Back; 49.86s, 50 Free; 29.47s, 25 Fly.

Tara Gidluck (9): 1:13.98s, 50 Breast; 23.73s, 25 Free; 33.03s, 25 Back; 40.87s, 25 Fly; 2:38.38s DQ, 100 IM. Rayel Martin (14): 42.12s, 50 Fly, 3rd; 19.81s, 25 Back; 36.89s, 50 Free; 41.26s, 50 Back, 3rd; 1:33.78s, 100 IM. Gillian Massie (12): 15.76s, 25 Free, 2nd; 21.05s, 25 Back; 17.84S DQ, 25 Fly; 45.31s, 50 Back, 2nd; 26.58s, 25 Breast.

Hayden McMahon (9): NS, 50 Breast; 24.43s DQ, 25 Fly; 2:02.51s, 100 IM.

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11

by Rod Pederson, Voice of the Riders They’re not mad in the Rider Nation.

Yet. These ardent football fans in the Wheat Province – considered to be the most knowledgeable in the Canadian loop – realize we are only three games into an 18-game season and there are all kinds of twists and turns planted ahead.

However one look at the CFL West Division standings right now is enough to put a pit in your stomach.

Saskatchewan Roughriders. 1-2.

Dead last.

Gulp.

It seems like forever since the Saskatchewan Roughriders were in the division basement however it wasn’t that long ago. It was the 2011 season to be exact, when the Riders started off 1-7 costing rookie coach Greg Marshall his job. Ken Miller took over

but could only muster a 4-6 record the rest of the way leaving the Riders at a woeful 5-13.

For the most part, we’ve blocked that from our memories.

That 2011 season is considered but a blip on the screen for a franchise which has appeared in four of the past seven Grey Cups. The new “Montreal Alouettes” as it were, but something’s gone wrong out of the gate this summer.

We’ve chronicled in this space over the past few weeks about how the Saskatchewan Roughriders have repeatedly shot themselves in the foot on the way to consecutive double-digits losses. I usually hate this phrase but in this case it’s true; the other teams didn’t win it, the Riders simply lost it.

And that’s why the Rider Nation is waffling right now. During last week’s bye in the schedule, every fan and Rider observer I encountered on the streets or in the coffee shops and restaurants had the exact same expression and question. They smirked and asked, “What’s wrong with the Riders right now?”

It left the impression that there’s mild concern amongst the fanbase, but not outright panic. Sure there are many citizens of the Rider Nation running around in a panic, but that’s the way they like it.

Those folks aren’t happy unless they’re unhappy and the team’s losing.

However the reasonable fan can see what’s going on. This is a team with a massively overhauled roster and it’s taking a while to come together. The only

problem is it’s taking longer than the team would like, but we’re only 1/6th the way through the schedule.

“In the bigger perspective we have to understand we’re only three games into the year and we’ve played one good football game and two bad ones,” Rider Assistant GM Jeremy O’Day reasoned on CKRM radio during the bye week. “We’re a team that’s had some turnover and have some guys in new positions and we need some time to get that cohesiveness together. We need to get the guys working on the same page but it doesn’t happen overnight in pro football. You can’t just plug a guy in and think it’ll be like normal. It’ll take some time but we’ll improve. The good news is we have room to improve.”

Here, here.

We’re hoping – and expecting – to see a different Roughrider team show up from its nine days off with a fresh attitude and refreshed will to win. The team also showed it means business by closing its very first practice of the week to the fans and media a la the NFL. It appears they mean business.

What have they cooked up behind closed doors?

What new personnel has been brought in to either turn things around or send a message?

We’ll find out Saturday when Dwight Anderson and the Toronto Argonauts come to town in an 8:00 pm kickoff.

Oh the possiblities!

(For daily Rider news follow Rod on Twitter at @ sportscage)

Meet the Bar racudas (Top Left): Cody Doering; Age: 8; Why I joined Swim Club: Because I want to race; Favourite Stroke: Back; Things that interest me: Sports and video games.

(Bottom Left): Raeann Gidluck; Age: 11; Why I joined Swim Club: Because I love water, good exercise and meet new friends; Favourite Stroke: Breast Stroke/ Front Crawl; Things that interest me: Playing ball, singing and being with horses.

(Right): Toby Pearce; Age: 10; Why I joined Swim Club: To get better at swimming; Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl; Things that interest me: I like playing outside.

Melfort Swim Meet results – June 15 Cody Doering (8): 1:07.70s, 50 Free; 30.00s, 25 Back, 3rd; 37.55s, 25 Free.

Raeann Gidluck (11): 4:12.07s, 200 Free; 2:25.42s, 100 Breast; 1:54.30s, 100 Free; 2:27.00s, 100 Back; 55.99s, 50 Free.

Tara Gidluck (9): 36.81s, 25 Fly; 1:17.11s, 50 Breast; 51.45s, 50 Free; 1:09.12s, 50 Back; 23.68s, 25 Free.

Rayel Martin (14): 2:57.18s, 200 Free, 1st; 1:52.58s, 100 Breast, 3rd; 1:20.70s, 100 Free, 2nd; 1:30.49s, 100 Back, 1st; 3:21.75s, 200 IM, 2nd.

Hayden McMahon (9): 24.06s DQ, 25 Fly; 1:04.52s, 50 Breast, 2nd; 47.87s, 50 Free; 57.89s, 50 Back; 2:01.73s, 100 IM, 1st.

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(Left): Hayden McMahon; Age: 9; Why I joined Swim Club: I like swimming; Favourite Stroke: Breast Stroke; Things that interest me: Playing Hockey and piano.

(Left): Kyson McMahon; Age: 6; Why I joined Swim Club: I love to swim; Favourite Stroke: Front Crawl; Things that interest me: Lego and drawing pictures.

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Federal regulator issues helpful new cost guide for railway crossing projects The Canadian Transportation Agency, a federal regulatory body, has issued a new cost guide to help railway companies, municipalities, land owners and others reach agreements and resolve disputes on the construction, upgrading and maintenance of railway crossings.

The Agency’s Guide to Railway Charges for Crossing Maintenance and Construction 2014 sets out consistent, nationwide guidelines on what railway companies can charge for all aspects of work on railway crossing projects.

Clearer guidance for communities, landowners, railway companies Updated on an annual basis, the newest edition of the Guide features reduced overhead rates for

work on railway crossings as a result of exhaustive Agency review of overhead calculations that major railway companies apply to labour, material and other charges.

“Overhead” refers to the costs incurred to enable or support the direct construction or maintenance of the crossing and the crossing warning system, and includes such expenses as planning and supervision of the work, general administration of the rail way company, employee benefits, office buildings expenses, taxes, and insurance.

New rates based on careful research, analysis The Agency’s in-depth examination of overhead costs concludes a major review, started in 2013, of the methods and data used to calculate charges

for crossing construction and maintenance projects.

The review was initiated to ensure costs continue to be accurately reflected in charges, and it conforms to the Agency’s practice of regularly reviewing and modernizing its non-regulatory instruments to ensure they are relevant and up to date.

The Agency’s review relied on extensive research. In-depth interviews were conducted with railway company personnel engaged in the planning and implementation of crossing maintenance and construction projects.

The Agency received and analyzed descriptions of all activities involved in crossing construction and maintenance from start to finish, as well as comments from road authorities and

Monday at 5:00 p.m. is the deadline for ads and classiÀeds 2003 Chev Silverado ¾ Ext 6.6T, white, 259,338km, StkT1510B .............. $14,900 2005 GMC ¾ crew 6.6T, 191,662km, StkT14580A ............................... $22,819 2008 Buick Enclave CXL, Mocca Steel, 153,000km, StkT14612A ............ $19,900 2008 Hummer H3Alpha 4x4, Solar Flare, 69,256kkm, StkC1442A .............. $29,900 2008 Chev Uplander LS, silver, 111,390kkm, StkT14410A.............................................. $ 8,933 2008 Chev Silverado 1/2 crew, Max Performance, black, 226,051km, StkT14741A ......... $15,400 2008 Chev Cobalt LT coupe, black, 88,354kkm, StkT14638A......................................... $ 9,900 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe GL, blue, 33,603km, StkT14724A .............................................. $17,900 2009 Dodge Journey SXT, blue, FWD, 111,077km, StkT1582A ...................................... $12,375 2009 GMC ½ Crew SLE 4x4, sonoma red, 101,197 km, StkC1425A ...................................$20,900 2009 GMC ½ Ton Crew SLE, white, 162,194km, StkT14564B ..........................................$17,900 2010 Chev Silverado 1/2 ext. LTZ, white, 45,917km, Stk T1461B ......................................$28,900 2010 GMC Sierra 3/4 crew SLT, 6.6T, silver, 120,427km, StkR5116 ..................................$46,900 2010 Chev Cobalt 2LT Sedan, silver, 85,000km, StkC1435A...............................................$ 9,900 2010 Buick Lacrosse CXL AWD, white diamond, 105,047km, StkT14578A .......................$19,161 2010 Chev Silverado ¾ Crew LTZ 6.6T, white, 101,900km, StkT1428A .........................

SOLD $42,900 2011 Ford F-250 Supuerduty Lariat crew, blue, 62,850kkm, StkT1540A........................ $37,651 2011 Chev Avalance LTZ, silver, 60,994km, StkT14228A ..........................................$31,050 2011 Buick Enclave CXL AWD, black, 28,430km, StkT14467A...................................... $35,450 2011 GMC 1/2 Crew SLT, black, 73,864km, StkT14565A............................................... $31,900 2012 Buick Verano, silver, 33,553 km, StkT14240A ....................................................... $21,900 2012 GMC 1/2 crew Denali, 6.2, white, 2014 Chev Suburban LT 127,186km, StkT14623A ...................... $33,850 2012 Ford F-150 FX4, white, 67,069km, silver, 14,566 km StkR5081 StkT14683A ......................................... $31,320 2012 GMC Terrain SLT AWD, black, 86.128km, StkR5115 .............................................

SOLD $27,900 2012 Ford F-150 FX4, 4x4, silver, 63,542km, StkT14273A .......................................

SOLD $34,351 2013 Chev Equinox LT AWD 2012 GMC Acadia SLT1 AWD, white, 84,500km, StkT14637A...................... $32,500 white, 18,843km, 2013 Chev Silverado ½ crew LT, red, StkR5085 22,001km, StkC1431A ....................... $31,889 2013 Chev Tahoe LT 4x4, brown, 52,521km, StkR5107 ........................................... $35,369

Transport Canada.

How crossing agreements work Under the Canada Transportation Act, federally-regulated railway companies, municipal, provincial and territorial road authorities, utility companies and landowners may negotiate agreements for any aspect of a crossing.

An agreement usually specifies rates railway companies will charge for work and sets out which parties are responsible for paying for what portion of

the work. Where agreements cannot be reached, the parties can apply to the Agency to resolve or help resolve issues related to construction, maintenance and apportionment of costs of road or utility crossings.

The Agency is a quasijudicial tribunal and economic regulator for federally-regulated transportation industries. In the event of a dispute, the Agency assesses the merits of the case and determines whether the rates in the Guide apply.

There are about 14,000 public and 9,000 private grade crossings along 42,650 kilometres of federally-regulated railway tracks in Canada.

Maintenance involves 1,460 municipal and provincial road authorities, 95 aboriginal bands, 32 railway companies and many individual private authorities. Clear guidance – such as that set out in the Agency’s new Guide – is essential to the effectiveness and efficiency of Canada’s vast transportation system.

Young butcherbirds are learning the trade The Loggerhead Shrike, a.k.a. “butcherbird”, is a species of songbird that is native to the Saskatchewan prairies.

Their name says it all – ‘Loggerhead’ because of their relatively large heads, ‘shrike’ because their call is more of a shriek, and ‘butcherbird’ because they impale and hang their prey on barbed wire fences, thorny shrubs, and trees. Similar to other birds of prey, shrikes have hooked bills; however, they lack the strong talons that most birds of prey possess so they must impale their prey to secure it during feeding. The males even use their impaled prey to attract mates. “What girl doesn’t love the sight of dead mice and snakes adorning the fence of their prospective home?” jokes Ashely Fortney,

Habitat Stewardship Coordinator with Nature Saskatchewan’s Shrubs for Shrikes program.

“It’s really a way for the males to show that they are good hunters and would provide well for a family.” The shrike’s prey items include beetles, grasshoppers, garter snakes, mice, voles, frogs, and even other smaller songbirds.

These birds migrate to Saskatchewan in the spring and are gone back to Texas and Mexico in the fall.

Loggerhead Shrike young are nearly as big as their parents now, having grown up to 15 times their size in just two weeks. Mid-to-late July is when the chicks start leaving the nest and learning to fly. “Right around now is when the chicks start learning to hunt and impale prey,” says Fortney, “it is really cute to see them trying to

impale prey but not quite getting it right. Although young shrikes look just like their parents you can differentiate them because their tails are shorter and they appear fluffier. Also, they tend to hang out in groups of four to seven which is quite a sight to see.”

Loggerhead Shrikes are slightly smaller than the American Robin with a black mask that extends from the bill past the eyes. They have a grey back with white underparts, black wings and a black tail with characteristic white stripes on the wings and the edges of the tail, which are easily seen when the birds are in flight.

Nature Saskatchewan is asking anyone who sees a Loggerhead Shrike or other Species at Risk please report the sighting.

Impaled frog that a shrike has killed. (Photo by M. Yaskowich)

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Young buthcherbirds are learning the trade. (Photo by M. Yaskowich)

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 13

Name travel through Saskatchewan

by Kaare Askildt 2014 Note: The actual names of places in Saskatchewan are written in Bold and Italic.

Cory lived in Regina as a Consul for the Queen of England, who is the Sovereign figure head of Canada. On insistence by Cory acting as a Viceroy, a Prince named McGee who lived in Saskatoon, but was actually Japanese and hailed from Mikado, was asked to collect the heavy Sceptre from Prince Albert before a Druid from Aberdeen got a hold of it, and return it as part of the Crown Jewels.

As a cadet Cory had enlisted in the navy and he eventually retired with the rank of Admiral. He had made some good investments and a Major stock made his fortune Biggar. He would Livelong and Holdfast to his Bounty! He mimicked the behaviour of Ebenezer Scrooge.

Denzil whose favourite libation was Asquith on the rocks, had married Jasmin and everybody thought that she was Dummer, but she fooled them all when she went to the river where there was a Swift Current from where she drank Goodwater. Lynne was Freeborn and bunked with her boyfriend LeRoy, who Lett them into the Chapple, where he operated a remote Lever and they were able to watch the movie One Flew Over the Eagles Nest.

Cory travelled mostly by train with his wife Laura, and they had a special Berth which was adorned with Floral design. Rosetown so named for the beautiful prairies roses, was their destination. They had booked a room in a Radisson hotel and would stay there for Weekes while hiking the trails of Nut Mountain.

They owned a farm with Choiceland and he would Endeavour to work his Goodsoil to make it Fertile, which was evidenced by the Greenspot, that had overtaken the Yellow Grass. When the Prelate visited them she would Love to serve Earl Grey tea made by Lipton in Ceylon, while he was flying the Union Jack, which they used as their Standard.

Cory was summoned by the Imperial court to visit the Czars. He brought his son Kyle, a nice Young man and a born Leader, along with

him. Kyle was not rich, but he was not a Poor Man either. Kyle drove the Cadillac because Cory had a problem with the Little Bone in his right foot. By accident he drove over what he thought was a rare White Fox from Fox Valley, but looking in the Mirror he saw that it was actually an Antelope. Driving by a farm yard they noticed a Chicken had flown the Coop, and was seeking Sanctuary in the neighbour’s yard. But while passing the Milestone, they missed the scary Big Beaver chasing Alfred Hitchcock up Beaver Creek!

They stopped for a break on Spy Hill, and from their Vantage point they observed the Renown Bart Simpson swimming across Lucky Lake followed in a small boat by his Stalwart father and coach. That scared up a Pelican, who then circled above what they thought to be a Moose Jaw, because a Moose Range was nearby. They could also see the Keg River, so named because a keg of beer and a hamburger Togo was floated down the river to the Fairy Glen, who drank the beer and turned into a vulcan sitting on a Mossbank scratching his rear end with a Bear Claw. There was also a ranch there with many horses, and they could see that the rancher grew his own Paddockwood in the Woods on Fir Mountain, apparently with great Success.

A Scott by the name of McCord was the rancher.

But he usually went by his first name Fleming.

He was getting married

to a beautiful woman he called Vonda (he had a speech impediment). She was accompanied by her Maidstone who wore a simple dress adorned with Beaubier in what could best be described as a Kamsack. His brother Herbert who worked as a Lampman, was summoned to the wedding by Telegraph using Morse code. Lord Snowden from Sleepy Hollow was the best man; he was dressed in the famous Blumenthal formal attire. He arrived riding a Pinto, holding his Rosary in one hand. The Marshall named Allen, was going to perform the civic ceremony, and he was standing at the Eastend next to the Arena in the Main Centre of the Grasswood area where there was a totem pole with a carved Indian Head on top, giving him a Broadview of the ranch. They also saw an Old Man On His Back because he fell down after attempting to void his Urin.

Cory considered himself a Lucky Man as they arrived at their destination without any incidents, and a Primate guided them into the parlour, where it was suggested that they bend their Elbow with vodka, but they made it clear they only Drinkwater.

Music by Mozart was emanating from the loudspeakers, and they asked that volume be either turned up a Tadmore or switch to Handel. Kyle recited a Limerick, but Chaplin was not available as he went to Stockholm where he would be Baring his soul, on a train through Hague via Amsterdam and Leipzig

crossing the Rhein where a Crane was wading.

Upon arrive he told them the sad tale of Sodom and Canora. The return trip was organized by what is called a Shipman who used to be in the army as a Warman. He now booked ocean passages with vessels sailed by Semans.

The Muenster of St. Gregor had been observed in Anaheim and Margo was sitting behind the Red Baron in his bi-plane as a spotter when they saw it, and she was wondering where he would Landis bi-plane.

They learned that the Congress was led by a Hoosier, and upon their Entrance into the parlor it became a Standoff.

However, they discussed many things including good Revenue results, and as a Reward they each received a Shamrock. A special guard who was seven feet tall weighing 250 pounds with the name of Tiny, who always requested a Piapot for relief, was posted as an Outlook, while they took the Liberty to have some lunch, enjoying Plenty of local Edam cheese served with a Cut Knife. They all agreed that space is the Frontier, but Unity must prevail.

After the session they went for an excursion and arrived at Grandmother’s Bay on Knee Lake.

There they found a Grizzly Bear’s Head and The Lean Man packing

his canoe with the bear meat for a trip down the river through Old Wives Lake and down Buffalo Narrows, it was part of a Pennant race. The Climax of the trip was

the Conquest of Duck Mountain, which they did on old wooden skis with antique Kandahar heel strap bindings. That raised an Eyebrow which they would never Forget!

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14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

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OBITUARIES Isabella Dirks September 18, 1915 July 13, 2014 Isabella Dirks was born September 18, 1915 at Kel¿eld, Sask. and passed away on July 13, 2014 at Biggar Sask. at the age of 98 years.

The Graveside Service was held on Thursday, July 17 at 2 p.m. from Biggar Cemetery, Biggar, Sask. with Rev. Jo-Ann Hills of¿ciating. Active Bearers were Wendel Dirks, Curtis Dirks, Doug Dirks, Jason Dirks, Wayne Rivers, Brian Rivers and Brent Dirks.

Isabella is survived by her children…Marjorie Rivers of Olds, Alta., and children, Wayne, Brian (Barbara), Brenda Robinson (Blair), Leanne Rivers (Shaun); Harold Dirks (Vicki) of Olds, Alta., and children, Douglas, Jason (Cheryl), Brent; Terry Dirks (Holly) of Calgary, Alta., and children, Darcy (Amanda), Meghan Klassen (Peter); Gary’s children, Wendel, Curtis, Cherelyn Stefaniszyn (Milo); 14 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; daughtersin-law, Velma and Nora; sisters, Sadie (Bill) Thompson and Hazel Watson.

She was predeceased by her husband, Clarence; son, Gary; siblings, Agnes, Roy, Lillian, Alfred, Ken, Lorne, Alvin; son-in-law, Bill.

Tributes may be directed in memory of Isabella to Biggar Diamond Lodge Activity Fund, Box 340, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 or Biggar New Horizons, Box 631, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 Grondin Funeral Service, Biggar entrusted with arrangements, “Our family serving your family since 1963”. gfsc1

MEMORIALS

NOTICE

West Gidluck The day before West passed away on December 20, 2013, he said, “Sorry, I didn’t want to ruin Christmas for you. Please don’t have a funeral for me. Have a party on the farm sometime in the summer and bring everyone together for a gathering like we used to have when we were kids.”

So, that’s what West’s family has planned!

Please join them for a Celebration of Life on THURSDAY, JULY 24: on the farm, south of Biggar. A short service is planned for 4 p.m. which will be followed by a potluck/BBQ/picnic. We’ll have the grill going and a big bon¿re to gather around. Bring your memories of West along with your lawn chairs and some food and beverages to toast our beloved “Kraft Dinner King” who we miss so much.

28p3

This newspaper accepts advertisements in good faith.

We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally. Publications by this paper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or service offered.

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 web site at www.swna.com. tfn

CARD OF THANKS Pat and Harry Morton would like to thank everyone for sharing 25th Anniversary with us on July 5. Thank you for all the cards and gifts. Thanks to all who helped get ready for party.

It’s wonderful to have so many special friends.

30p1

COMING EVENTS SUNDAYS in JULY: Presbyterians, Anglicans and Lutherans (PALs) will be worshipping at St. Paul’s Anglican Church at 10:30 a.m. Everyone welcome. For more information or pastoral services, phone Pastor Mark Kleiner at 306-948-3731 or 306951-7122.

48/10tfn SUNDAYS… You are invited to the weekly services of Biggar Associated Gospel Church, corner of 8th and Quebec Street @ 10:50 a.m. June 29 September 7. Worship will be at 10:50 a.m. There will be no Sunday School sessions for the summer. The church of¿ce number is 306-948-3424, Terry Wicks, Pastor.

36tfn TUESDAYS - SATURDAYS: Biggar Museum & Gallery Annual Summer Book Sale has begun!, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed at noon.

Hundreds of books, CDs, jigsaw puzzles, games… all at very reasonable prices! The work of Grace Gerein, a Wilkie artist, will also be on show for sale!

27c8 TUESDAY, AUGUST 5: Biggar Blood Donor Clinic, 2:30 - 7:30 p.m. at Biggar Community Hall… sponsored by Biggar Kayette Club and C.W.L. Book appointment online @ www. blood.ca or phone 1-888-2366283.

29c3 SUNDAY, AUGUST 10: 7:00 p.m., Leney Cemetery Annual 76th Memorial Service; minister, Joan Brown. Bring you lawn chair and a friend. If weather is bad, it will be held in the United Church.

30c3

SUMMER HOURS The Independent will be closing at 12:00 noon on Fridays for the months of July and August

MISCELLANEOUS P R O V I N C E - W I CLASSIFIEDS. Reach 550,000 readers weekly. this newspaper NOW or 649.1400 for details.

D E over Call 306-

RURAL WATER TREATMENT. Patented iron ¿lters, softeners, distillers, “Kontinuous Shock” Chlorinator, IronEater. Patented whole house reverse osmosis.

Payment plan. 1-800-BIG-IRON (244-4766); www.BigIronDrilling. com. View our 29 patented & patent pending inventions. Since 1957.

STEEL BUILDINGS... SUMMER MELTDOWN SALE! 20X20 $5,419. 25X26 $6,485. 30X30 $8,297. 32X34 $9,860. 40X48 $15,359. 47X68 $20,558. Front & Back Wall Included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422 www. pioneersteel.ca STEEL BUILDINGS/METAL BUILDINGS 60% OFF! 20x28, 30x40, 40x62, 45x90, 50x120, 60x150, 80x100 sell for balance owed! Call 1-800-457-2206 www.crownsteelbuildings.ca

WANTED Old battery collection, Fisher #300 Cadet Squadron. Drop off at the Biggar Land¿ll OR contact Quentin Sittler at 306-658-2132 tfn Main Street Garage Sale is accepting donations of all items in clean and working condition.

Please phone 306-948-1773 or 306-948-5393.

Pickup available. tfn Four Bourgault Titan II packer arms, 306-948-3474 tfn FIREARMS. All types wanted, estates, collections, single items, military. We handle all paperwork and transportation. Licensed Dealer. 1.866.960.0045 www. dollars4guns.com.

WANTED: COLLECTOR PAYING TOP PRICES for old advertising dealership signs, plastic or metal. Service Station items, gasoline pumps, globes, oil cans, clocks. Red Indian, Dodge, Ford, etc. 306-2215908, 306-369-2810

CARS & TRUCKS 1964 Ford Fairlane, excellent condition, mileage 67,000 miles.

Price $5,200, negotiable. Call 306-948-2682 30p3

SEED & FEED Square hay bales for sale, call 306-948-9186 30tfn

biggarindependent.ca

SEED & FEED HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

- GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!!

- BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!!

HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252

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

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

REAL ESTATE Great three-unit income property for sale. Upstairs unit is a spacious 3-bedroom unit with kitchen, living room, bathroom and patio doors to deck. Basement suite #1 is a one-bedroom suite with open kitchen/living room; and #2 is a bachelor suite. All very cute with some upgrades. Both basement suites are fully furnished. Shared laundry, new furnace one year ago, newer water heaters, shingles, siding and deck. Great location close to schools. For viewing or more information contact 306-948-7661.

27tfn

HOUSES for SALE

CANADIAN MANUFACTURED backed by 10 year warranty -multi family, single section, motel style homes -Qualify for C.M.H.C. Financing ORDER Your Custom Home NOW for Fall Delivery Now Offering $1500 in Free Options!

1.800.249.3969 Check out our inventory at www.medallion-homes.ca Hwy 2 South Prince Albert

Excellent location in Biggar.

Two-bedroom starter/retirement home. Large fenced lot, storage shed, ¿re pit, off-street parking, new fridge, washer, dryer.

Natural gas and electric heat.

Partial basement. For sale or rent to own. Available now. Call 306-948-2027 for more info.

29p3 House for sale in Landis, Sask.

Double corner lot, directly across from the school. Three bedrooms, full basement, good size kitchen with lots of cupboards; washer, dryer, fridge, stove, built in dishwasher and microwave included. Large shed with good garden spot; deck on back of house. REDUCED to $40,000 obo. Would make a great starter home or retirement home. For more information call (306) 948-7161.

38tfn

LAND FOR SALE Acreage for Sale… Hammond Realty Starter ranch near Argo Bush includes 160 acres with 108 acres of tame grass and the balance being native pasture and yard site. Fenced and cross fenced into 4 paddocks.

1,120 sq. ft. 1996 mobile home includes 3 bed, 2 bath, vaulted ceiling, porch, deck, spacious Àoor plan, shows well. Yard includes barns, corrals, bins and sheds. Tremendous value!

Asking $210,000. Call Tim 306948-5052.

25tfn

LAND for RENT Pasture land for rent in R.M. of Eagle Creek. Call for details.

306-948-9186 22tfn

Canadian Built Modular Homes

Vanscoy, SK 306-242-9099 Quality, affordable modular & manufactured homes from 864 sf to 2400 sf www.vestamfghomes.com Serving all of Saskatchewan 10 Year Warranty

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

HOUSES FOR RENT

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

CAREERS

Two and Three-bedroom houses for rent. Close to downtown and school. Fridge and stove included. For viewing call 306948-3674 or 306-948-9517 or 306-948-7022.

50tfn

FOR RENT Charter/ Sherwood Apartments 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom Heat and water supplied, wired for cable TV and satellite systems, laundry facilities, appliances, some suites with dishwashers, air conditioning, parking with plug-ins.

WW1365

For more information call: Karen/Kevin • 948-9115 302 - 8th Ave. W. • Biggar

TRAVEL SNOWBIRDS! Parksville/ Qualicum, Vancouver Island, 600 sq. ft., 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom fully furnished cottage in treed forest setting. $975/month, utilities included.

Available October 1/14 Spring 2015. 250-248-9899 or andreamichaelwilson@shaw. ca.

Services WELCOME WSINCE AGON 1930 If YOU are…

• NEW to our communities of Biggar/Landis/Perdue • Have a new baby Call WELCOME WAGON at 306-948-3837

Sheila Itterman We have gifts and information www.welcomewagon.ca Need help re-arranging or organizing household furnishings, cupboards, closets, etc., call 306-948-5230 29p3 Biggar & District Arts Council are available for bar tending services at your functions/ events. Contact Denise at 306948-2452.

40tfn 1ST & 2ND MORTGAGES AVAILABLE! Money for Farmland or Residential Property Available Now! Call Toll Free 1-866-405-1228 or Email info@ firstandsecondmortgages. ca Website www. ¿rstandsecondmortgages.ca Horizontal Directional Drilling and Hydro-Vac Services. Fast, Ef¿cient, Reasonable! Sure Shot HDD Contracting Ltd. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 1-306-933-0170 SURESHOTHDD.COM

BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITY GET FREE VENDING MACHINES Can Earn $100,000.00 + Per Year. All Cash-Retire in Just 3 Years.

Protected Territories. Full Details CALL NOW 1-866-668-6629 Website WWW.TCVEND.COM

Stop in to…

1st Ave. West, Biggar 948-2700

BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITY $ OPPORTUNITY $ to market & install a new product. It seals, colors, strengthens & stops cracks from spreading in concrete.

Protects concrete, wood & metal against weather, salt & petroleum products.

An investment of $10,000 - $25,000 will secure inventory & give an above average return on your investment. It also ensures protected territory & room for expansion.

Company training & market support provided.

For more information and a list of areas still available: Cement Accents Box 21062 RPO Gardiner Park, Regina, SK S4V 1J4 email: roywagman@sasktel.net

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Full-time Equipment Operator with 1A license wanted for Graham Contracting, Asquith, Sask.

Loader experience required. Gravel End Dump Work.

Apply by email: grahamcontractingasquith@ gmail.com or fax 306-329-6207 28c3 Part-time waitress/waiter needed. Must be a mature, dependable and reliable individual, 16 years and over.

Need to work evenings and lunch. Apply in person with resume to Ray at Pizzeria Adria, 212 Main St., Biggar.

28c3

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Heavy Equipment Operators for late model CAT equip: motor scrapers (cushion ride), dozers, excavators, rock trucks, graders (trim operators).

Camp job. Competitive wages plus R & B. Valid drivers license req’d.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, Sk. S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca MEDICAL TRANSCRIPTION is an in-demand career in Canada!

Employers have work-at-home positions available. Get the online training you need from an employer-trusted program. Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-888-5280809 to start training for your work-at-home career today!

Passionate about travel?

Experienced in sales or retail?

Flight Centre is hiring in Saskatoon! Great pay, bene¿ts and UNCAPPED earning potential. Apply online at www. Àightcentre.ca/careers Reporter/Photographer required.

Willing to train on the job, must have a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle. Full-time or part-time, wages commensurate with experience and education.

Gas allowance, group bene¿ts and company pension plan.

Send resume to Weyburn Review, Box 400, Weyburn, SK S4H 2K4, email: dward@ weyburnreview.com or fax 306842-0282.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Auditions!

Saskatchewan Express 25th Anniversary Winter Tour.

All Singers encouraged to audition. Six-month paid contract for those selected.

Call 306-522-3406 or nora@ saskatchewanexpress.com to book audition.

WINCH TRACTOR OPERATORS. Must have experience operating a winch.

To apply fax, email or drop off resume at the of¿ce. Phone 780842-6444. Fax 780-842-6581.

Email: rigmove@telus.net. Mail: H&E Oil¿eld Services Ltd., 2202 - 1 Ave., Wainwright, AB, T9W 1L7. For more employment information see our webpage: www.heoil.com.

Classi¿eds Work Phone 306-948-3344

Advertising doesn’t cost…it cost…it

PAYS!!!

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY Town of Hepburn Hepburn is located 50 kms. north of Saskatoon just off Highway #12.

A bedroom community of 562 residents with low crime, safe streets and friendly people. Hepburn has a growing business district, recreation facilities, bowling alley, K-12 public school and churches.

The Town Administrator will be responsible to the Council for all operations of the Town in accordance with the policies established by Council and the Municipalities Act. The preferred candidate should possess a minimum Urban Standard Certificate combined with years of experience in municipal government. Knowledge of MuniSoft municipal system would be an asset. This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found.

Qualified applicants must include a resume with a cover letter outlining qualifications and experience with references to: Town of Hepburn WW1366 Box 217 Hepburn, SK S0K 1Z0 Ph: (306) 947-2170 Fax: (306) 947-4202 hepburnvillage@sasktel.net

Float and stir those coals! Know your campÀre safety Few things can top the soothing crackle and earthy smell of a campfire. It’s no wonder why so many people look forward to spending their summer nights around one, toasting marshmallows and telling stories under Saskatchewan’s vast, starry sky.

While sitting around a fire is both fun and relaxing, great care must be taken when starting a wilderness campfire. All it takes is a single spark or ember to ignite nearby material.

Digging a pit, having items on hand to put out fires, and wind conditions are the most common precautions people need to consider prior to building a recreational campfire.

However, these are not the only steps that can be taken to ensure campfire safety.

According to Larry Fremont, the Ministry of Environment’s Fire Education and Prevention Coordinator, “campfires are the second leading cause of human-started wildfires in Saskatchewan.”

In 2013, 45 recreational fires caused wildfires in Saskatchewan. The majority of these would have been from campfires. The 10-year running average shows that 15 per cent of all human-caused wildfires are tied to recreational fires.

The most active fire months are May, June, and July, all which average 113 fire starts per month.

The best way to prevent a wildfire is to recognize potential danger. It is best to refrain from starting a fire if it is very hot, windy, or dry outside. Fires start and spread more easily and rapidly when it’s hot and dry.

“Campfires should be built in a barbeque pit or stand when provided,” says Fremont. “These fire receptacles are designed to prevent fires from going wild. Otherwise, build the campfire on rock, clay, or sand.”

If built on a thick duff layer or where peat moss is present, the campfire will burn down and be difficult to put out. These ground fires give off little smoke and can be difficult to detect, and they can resurface hours or even days after the fire was initially extinguished.

“We regularly have to put out fires lit by hunters and campers, even snowmobilers and ice fisherman who light fires during the winter on peat moss; these fires burn all winter and become wildfires in the spring when conditions allow,” explains Fremont.

Campfire sites should be at least one metre away from other things that will burn, like grass and trees. It is easier to contain the campfire when it is kept small. Small fires mean reduced chances of embers blowing about and starting a new fire.

It is also a good idea to keep a shovel and bucket of water close by, just in case.

General stores carry collapsible pails and foldup shovels, simple tools that can make the difference between everyone having a good time or the event of a dangerous wildfire that threatens communities and property.

Use lots of water to put out your fire, float and stir the coals.

“Using lots of water and a bit of caution to put out

your fire could save a forest,” says Fremont. “Coals should be cool to the touch when you leave the site.”

The Ministry of Environment wants everyone to enjoy summer campfires, but to have respect for the potential dangers.

“Basic human carelessness accounts for a large number of human-caused wildfires,” notes Fremont.

“Fighting those fires costs millions of dollars. Being careful when burning and extinguishing campfires can help save tax dollars and reduce the wildfire risk for people enjoying the outdoors.”

But you don’t want silence in your business

ADVERTISE and make some noise

Biggar Independent 306-948-3344 AUTOMOTIVE 1st Ave. West, Biggar

COURIER/HAULING

COURIER/HAULING

BIGGAR COURIER • Biggar to Saskatoon • Same day Service • Monday to Friday • 24-hour Answering Service

~Brian and Cathy Fick~

Cell: 306-948-7524

This space in this directory is available for only

$161.20 plus gst… one column x 2 inches for 26-week prepaid commitment (regular price is $19.88 per week = $516.88 plus gst)

Call 306-948-3344

306.237.7671 Troy May, owner/operator Fax: 306.237.TROY email: tmay@hotmail.ca Super B outÀts hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan

FAX SERVICE at The Independent

COURIER/HAULING

AUTOMOTIVE

Rockin D Trucking & Cattle

YH Truck, Ag & Auto

• Cattle hauling with 21 ft. gooseneck trailer • round and large square bale hauling with step-deck or highboy semi-trailers • also buying and selling straw and forage • also machinery hauling Home • 306-948-2037 Alex • 306-948-7291 Dan • 306-948-7843 Biggar, Sask.

• Heavy truck parts • Agriculture parts • Automotive parts & accessories www.yhtruckagauto.com

Hwy 14 East, Biggar 306-948-2109

HAULS TO THE DUMP

306.948.2700 Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer Open: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat. • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar Open Monday-Friday Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

Heavy Truck Repair SGI Safety Inspection Auto Repair TIRES

KRF Auto Centre 100% handwash Service Truck Full Mechanical Service Mon - Fri • 8 a.m.-5 p.m. phone: George

306-948-3376

Ph/fax: 306-948-3856 or cell: 306-948-7896

after hours George: 948-4042

biggarindependent.ca

M & N REPAIR 306.948.3996

Small moves and deliveries with ½ ton truck

J. G. Smith

AUTOMOTIVE

Corner of Main Street & 1st Avenue West, Biggar

“Where we do it all for you!!”

• Detailing • Vortex Spray-In Box Liners • Granitex Baked-on Coatings for Decks and Cement Flooring • Auto Accessories • Trailer Rentals Owned & operated by Kevin Fick

227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar

306-948-1722

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

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Bear Hills Rural Development Corporation Box 327 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

ELECTRICAL BIGGAR ELECTRICAL & REFRIGERATION SERVICES Commercial and Industrial Electrical Wiring Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan

306-948-5291 PHILLIPS ELECTRIC • Residence • Commercial Wiring For free estimates Ph: 306-948-5393

Cell: 306-221-6888

Goldburg Electric Ltd. • Residential • Commercial Contact Matt Craig

PLUMBING & HEATING

Helping you Help yourself

Michelle Spuzak,

Phone:

306-948-2295 Fax: 306-948-5050

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MADGE ROOFING INC. “Setting a Higher Standard” ¬New Construction ¬Re-roofs ¬Torch-on ¬Tile ¬Metal ¬Asphalt ¬All repairs ¬Shakes ¬Inspections 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

PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL

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

Biggar, Sask.

306-948-3389

PRAIRIE BOYZ VINYL FENCING LTD.

• residential or acreage • FREE estimates and fence designing • full service or premade for the do-it-yourself handyman • tongue and groove style

Services available…

• Shamanic Healing • Psychosomatic Therapy • Massage • Emotional Release Therapy

~ Gift CertiÅcates ~ Evening, Saturday and in-home appointments available.

306-948-2548 or 948-9710

New Beginnings HEALTH/WELLNESS Wellness Centre

Biggar

Weight Loss & Wellness Centre

“Putting PERSONAL back into fitness training!”

Wayne Baldwin, PFT, CPTA, CNHC

Specializing in Exclusive Seasonal Personal Training Sessions! …for weight loss, body sculpting, strength training.

www.madgesaskrooÀng.com Biggar, Sask.

Offering… One-on-One Rehab & Therapy Sessions

ARGUE’S

• ‘Ideal Protein’ Weight Loss • ‘Slender You’ Figure Salon

EAVESTROUGH

Weight Loss Coach Anne G. Livingston 317 Main St., Biggar

NOW SERVING THE BIGGAR AREA FREE ESTIMATES 5-inch continuous eavestrough

R.M.T. (NHPC member) Located @ New Beginnings Wellness Centre, 114 - 2nd Ave. W., BIGGAR

Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff

* Limited Memberships available to fully equipped Private Fitness Studio & Cardio Room Gift Certificates available

DENTAL

ACCOUNTING

DR. GLENN RIEKMAN Dentist

BIGGAR ACCOUNTING SERVICES

115 - 1st Avenue West 1 Rosetown, Sask.

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

Phone:306.882.2123 Emergency (after hours) 306.882.2006

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

Southeast entrance of Nova Wood Bldg.

Hours…

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

Friday, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

PHOTOGRAPHY

P. O. Box 1480 Biggar, Sask.

Phone: 306-948-5133

223 Main Street Biggar Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO

306-948-2183 Email: ddolack@sasktel.net Website: www.hrblock.ca

CAMPBELL ACCOUNTING SERVICES • Bookkeeping • Tax Returns • Financial Statements

Phone… 306-948-2548 Cell… 306-948-8048

201B-2nd Ave. West

OPTOMETRISTS

Where you can feel right at home!

306-948-7274

Garry A. Faye Chartered Accountant Notary Public

306-948-3408

Visit us @ 114- 2nd Ave. W., Biggar

Call Making Biggar Smaller!

Kirk Ewen Doctor of Optometry

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

Derek Argue

rod.campbell@sasktel.net 122 Main St., Biggar, SK

Box 323, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

INVESTMENTS

306-375-7055

306-951-8004 HOME IMPROVEMENTS

HEALTH/WELLNESS

- together with • Five Inch Seamless • Fascia • Call now to secure your spot

Dan… 306-281-5090 Chad… 306-280-1524 Email: chadnixey@ hotmail.com

306-951-7666, Murray; 306-948-2953, Walter (h)

306-948-4565 (c)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Fitness Centre Healthy Lifestyle Weight Loss 30-minute Circuit Personal Training Fitness Classes

Photos by Jocelyn Portraits, Family, Weddings & Sports Photography Biggar, Sask.

www.photosbyjocelyn.com

306-948-2814

102 - 3 Ave. W., Biggar rd

306.948.2208

Phone or Text:

306-321-4991 Website: www.perdue massageclinic.com www.facebook.com/ perduemassageclinic

Check this week·s classiÀeds, photos/videos online @ biggarindependent.ca

For appointments…

1-855-651-3311

Financial Planning Estate Planning Life Insurance 222 Main Street 306 948 5377

BUSSE LAW

SMALL ADS WORK

PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Barristers & Solicitors

You’re reading this one!

info@twhÀnancial.ca www.twhÀnancial.ca

INVESTMENTS

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

For all your investment needs, Visit…

302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

306-948-3346

Registered Massage Therapist (MTAS) Evenings and Saturday appointments available.

Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main Street, Biggar

LEGAL SERVICES

…owned and operated by Brett Barber

Perdue Massage Clinic

In Biggar Every Tuesday.

…serving your community since 1972

Roe & Peszko is a full service law office that practices… ¾ ¾ ¾ ¾

Criminal Law Commercial Law Real Estate Law Wills and Estate Law and our lawyers, William Roe, Q.C. Jason Peszko Lisa Watson

Dean McCallum, CFP, CIM, FCSI

Lyndsey Poole

Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

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

Pamela Eaton Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc.

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

look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:

Get the Biggar Independent

306-948-5352 or 306-244-9865

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Online

Go to…

biggarindependent.ca to sign up

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

INSURANCE

¾ Auto & Home Insurance ¾ Farm & Commercial Insurance ¾ Health & Travel Insurance ¾ Life Insurance & Investments ¾ Farm Succession & Estate Planning ¾ Notary Publics Landis Of¿ce Hours: Biggar Of¿ce Hours…

Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

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

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

304 Main St., Biggar Phone: 306-948-2204 Toll Free: 1-855-948-2204 Website: www.biggarinsurance.ca Email: biggar@biggarinsurance.ca

100 - 2nd Ave. W., Landis Phone: 306-658-2044 Toll Free: 1-855-658-2044 Website: www.landisinsurance.ca Email: landis@landisinsurance.ca

“We’ll getcha covered”

FOR RENT

SERVICES

BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Panasonic, Samsung,

Housing for families and seniors Rent based on income

SEED CLEANING

Custom Cleaning of H.R.S. & C.P. S. Wheat

Phone: 306-948-5678

SEED CLEANING

M & N RE-

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

Excellent Quality at a Reasonable Price!

Saskatoon - Biggar Office DUANE NEUFELDT 403 Main St., Biggar

Licensed For: • Residential • Acreage • Farm

306-948-8055

• Computer Sales • Support and Consultancy • Backup and Disaster Recovery • Email • Wired/Wireless Networking

and Your authorized

BIGGAR LEISURE CENTRE

Wylie Farms Ltd.

REAL ESTATE

LG, Frigidaire, Shaw, Yamaha Audio Dealer;

SaskTel Mobility and High Speed Internet Dealer

McNULTY’S MOBILE SEED CLEANING

COMPUTER SERVICES

Your authorized

Call: 306-948-2101

216 Main St., Biggar

MONARCH MEATS

222 Main St., Biggar

Tel: 306-986-2600

• sides of Beef available

Rebel Landscaping 306-948-2879, evenings 306-948-7207, daytime Ed Kolenosky • Driveways • Concrete • Garage Pads • Pruning • Planting

306-948-3384

306- 948-2807 or 948-5609 948-5394

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

AGRICULTURE

Fax: 306-948-2763 www.DuaneNeufeldt.com

Proud sponsor of Children’s Wish Foundation

t Delivery

Ask Abou

• Wood, metal, plastic signs • Vehicle & window graphics • Banners, stickers and Magnetic signs

Jerry Muc Phone: 306-948-2958 Fax:

306-948-5699

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

306-948-5052 Cell 306-948-7995

Cari Perih Residential Salesperson

SoldByCari.ca

SERVICES

For appointments and inquiries, call

306-948-2091 Mon. - Thurs., 7 a.m. - 5 pm.

2 mi. N. on Hwy #4, 2-½ mi. E. on Golf Course Rd. Anne G. Livingston

rd

113 - 3 Ave. W., Biggar

Custom Embroidery

306-948-5052

Teams, Corporate and Personal Attire

HammondRealty.ca

Judy Kahovec…

Tim Hammond

Call Anne @ 306-948-7274 greengables2@sasktel.net

Biggar Sand & Gravel

HONEYBEE SEPTIC TANK SERVICE

• trenching • trucking • water & sewer • sand & gravel • excavating OfÀce …

306-948-5052 Cell 306-948-4478 HammondRealty.ca Dave Molberg

306-948-5455

BSA

of The Battlefords Independently Owned and Operated

FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS… • Selling/Buying • Residental • Farm/Acreage • Commercial • Recreational

Wally Lorenz Sales Associate 1391 - 100th St. North Battleford, SK S9A 0V9 Day or Night

Cell: 306.843.7898 Bus: 306.446.8800 znerol.w@sasktel.net Web site: www.remaxbattlefords.com

• photographs • paintings • art prints • memorabilia • collages, etc.

306-882-4313, cell 306-831-7935

Broker/Owner, BSA, P.Ag.

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

CertiÀed Custom Picture Framer

THUR-O CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Cliff Forsyth Box 736, Biggar

Phone: 306-948-5600

Bob Kobelsky

306-658-4474, Landis

Hair Salons Christina Prpick of

Mane Essence Hair Salon

• Taking appointments Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays.

(Saturday and evenings on request) Contact Christina @

306-948-3312 sales@gvsigns.ca

GAS STATIONS

Perdue 5-Star Service - Under NEW Management Esso Full Service Gas Bar & Restaurant 306-237-4363 Open: Monday-Sunday • 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Holidays: 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

The Country Clipper • All Breed Dog Grooming • Boarding Kennels (Bordetella Mandatory) • Natural health care for pets • Massage “Acupressure”

• Snow Removal • Fences …and much more

• Laser Engraving • Promotional products (mugs, mousepad, etc)

A Sign of Qualilty!

• Topsoil • Lawn Care • Leveling • Sod • Patio Blocks

“Your complete decal and signage shop”

For all your Cereal and Pulse Cleaning Call: Bill: Dale:

Toll Free: 866-403-2298

Email: garethmckee@burntorangesolutions.com Website: www.burntorangesolutions.com

Modern Licenced Abbatoir • custom slaughter, cut and wrapping • sausage making, curing and smoking

BURNT ORANGE SOLUTIONS

Gareth McKee

306-

948-3955

SERVICES

SERVICES

Contact US for OFFICE SUPPLIES, FORMS and SERVICES… ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Faxing Photocopies Rubber Stamps Envelopes Letterheads Business Cards Receipts Invoices Statements Flyers Resumes Posters Menus Programs and Booklets Phamphlets Christmas letters File Folders Sticky Labels Address Labels Social Tickets Draw Tickets Calendars and Day Planners Presentations

Call us now for your FREE quote on all your printing needs.

Phone: 306-948-3344

and more…

306-948-2712 For FAX service, see us at The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar

CLASSIFIEDS WORK

…call 306-948-3344

ADVERTISING is an investment in your business.

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19

14074MC00

505 Hwy. 7 West, Rosetown, SK S0L 2V0 OPEN: Monday - Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. CLOSED: Sundays

1.877.979.7999 www.rosetownmainline.net

THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2014

20 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Chef Dez on cooking

Melons and summer go hand-in-mouth One of the favourite food to help combat the heat of the summer sun is chilled slices of melon. Seeing kids with watermelon juices running down their chins as they submerge their appetites into the cold juicy flesh, is a sure sight at almost any outdoor activity. Although watermelons are the most popular suppresser of the scorching temperatures, many also choose cantaloupe, honeydew, or casaba melons to fulfill this activity.

Casaba melons are similar in size and shape of cantaloupes and honeydews, but are recognizable by their wrinkled yellow skin. They are not smooth like honeydews nor do they have a netted shell like cantaloupes. The sweet flesh of the casaba can be white, yellow or orange, but it is not as sweet as honeydew, and not as aromatic as cantaloupe.

Melons make a great summertime snack as they

have a high water content to replenish our overheated bodies along with a low calorie count. One diced cup of any of these four varieties will account for approximately 45 to 65 calories. Honeydew being the highest in calories because of the higher sugar content, and watermelon only ranking 45 due to, you guessed it: the highest water content. Even though each of these four melons have their own attributing nutritional factors, cantaloupes seem to be the most nutritious of the group.

Let’s investigate vitamin A for example. Cantaloupes have an extremely high amount of vitamin A (approximately 5411 IU per cup), while watermelon offers 865 IU, honeydew only 85 IU, and casabas usually don’t have any. Vitamin A is typically found in abundance in darker coloured fruits and vegetables, and it helps to promote the maintenance and growth of healthy skin and hair. It is also necessary for the proper development of teeth and bones.

Cantaloupes also have the highest vitamin C (with twice the amount of honeydews), and the highest in minerals potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.

No matter what melons you decide upon, a melon baller will assist in creating a great presentation in your next fruit salad or as frozen balls of fruit in a summer drink. Garnish your creations with some chilled local fresh berries and you will have a delicious low fat snack to help combat the summer heat.

Dear Chef Dez: Someone told me that the outsides of cantaloupes

should be washed before we eat them due to bacteria and salmonella poisoning? Is this true? If so, why, since we just eat the insides and not the skin?

Norma B. Langley, BC Dear Norma: This is true. According to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), cantaloupes are grown at the ground level and their outer skin can become contaminated in the field by soil, contaminated water, wildlife, poor handling, or improperly composted manure.

When we cut into melons, any bacterial on the outer skin can easily be transferred not only to your knife, cutting board, and serving plate, but also to the inner flesh. The CFIA recommends as one precaution that before cutting fresh cantaloupes to thoroughly wash and scrub them with hot water using a clean produce brush.

As further safety measures, it would be wise to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling cantaloupes as well as the equipment used to prepare them. It is always better to be safe than sorry, and if they recommend this for cantaloupes, I then would assume these safety measures with all melons.

Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Instructor and Cookbook Author. Visit him at www.chefdez.com Write to him at dez@chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, BC V2T 6R4.

Examining a major misconception surrounding ETFs

by Kim Inglis Research and consultancy firm ETFGI reports that globally listed assets of ETFs and exchange-traded products reached a new record high of US $2.55 trillion at the end of May 2014. Canada represents US $63.2 billion of those assets. Its remarkable growth has also brought

changes.

ETFs started out quite broad-based.

However, an influx of specialty products has helped grow their number, with many having smaller assets under management and lower trading volumes.

According to BMO Financial Group, 134 ETFs in Canada have

assets of $30 million or less, and 191 are trading fewer than 10,000 shares per day.

This has led to a major misconception.

Many investors believe that an ETF’s daily trading volume indicates its liquidity because small volumes could create difficulties in getting in and out of

Summer Hours The Independent will be implementing SUMMER HOURS Starting July 4, 2014

MONDAY  THURSDAY 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

FRIDAY

9 a.m. - 12 noon

The Independent 122 Main Street, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 306-948-3344

email: tip@sasktel.net fax: 306-948-2133

positions. However, ETF trading volumes have a negligible effect on liquidity.

ETFs have three levels of liquidity. The first, and natural, level occurs on the stock market exchange where buyers and sellers match up. The second is through the activity of designated brokers who are responsible for ensuring an orderly market. The third level of liquidity involves underwriters who create or redeem ETF units either offsetting increased demand or tightening supply if demand falls.

The true liquidity involves underwriters who create or redeem ETF units either offsetting increased demand or tightening supply if demand falls. The true liquidity of an ETF is linked to that of the underlying securities, not the volume.

The BMO S&P/TSX Equal Weight Banks Index ETF (ZEB) is

a good example.

Its underlying holdings are the six major Canadian banks.

Although the ETF often trades as little as 20,000 shares in a day, the banks regularly trade in the millions.

Since the daily trading volume of the banks is so large, significant trade orders can be placed for the ETF without impacting its price.

Granted, not all ETFs are liquid and a quick way of assessing an ETF’s liquidity is to check the difference between its buying and selling prices. A large spread between the bid and the ask generally indicates that its underlying securities may be less liquid. ETFs are required to publish all of their holdings on a daily basis which means investors can look up the individual securities and assess their liquidity.

Regardless of liquidity, ETF investors should follow some simple rules. As with equity trading, it’s

BURGER NIGHT at The Legion Friday, July 25 6 p.m.

Watch for the regular Burger Night on the last Friday of each month.

always prudent to use limit orders on ETF trades.

These allow investors to set limits on the prices at which they are willing to buy or sell, affecting profitability.

Those trading in international, commodity, or currency ETFs should make certain the underlying markets are open. If trades are made when the underlying market is closed, investors risk buying or selling at pricing that is at variance with the ETF’s net asset value (NAV).

Investors should avoid trading ETFs at either the open or close of the market. An ETF’s price depends on the value of its underlying holdings and it can take a few minutes after market open for the underlying securities to start trading. Investors buying ETFs on market open risk purchasing the ETF before the price changes in the underlying securities have been reflected in its price.

Similarly, movement in the underlying portfolio can be volatile near the close and pricing may not be accurate.

Kim Inglis, CIM, PFP, FCSI, AIFP is an Investment Advisor and Portfolio Manager with Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management, a division of Canaccord Genuity Corp., Member – Canadian Investor Protection Fund. www. reynoldsinglis.ca.

The views in this column are solely those of the author.