The Biggar Independent Volume #114 Issue #30

PRAIRIE ART TOUR

It was a beautiful sunny day for the annual Prairie Art Tour on Saturday July 22. The tour consists of a nice drive in the country, 1st stop at the farm of Cindy & Ernie Hoppe and her collections of beautiful paintings with a handful of other vendors showcasing thier arts and crafts all available for sale and Ernie busy making lunch for all that came. Next stop was the farm of Bailey Dueker and Boondock Flowers. Bailey’s farm is so inviting and with another handful of vendors showcasing thier arts and crafts all made available for sale. Next you can travel down to Arlee and the home of Arlee Art and all that he has for sale and to see, and then finish off the run at Prairie Fire Alpacas farm for everything made in Alpaca wool. Great way to spend an afternoon and see some wonderful works of art, well organized and by the looks of the crowds at each place it was well attended. Pictures for The Independent by Dale Buxton

Perdue Town Hall Meeting with the Saskatchewan Cattleman’s Association

A town hall meeting was called to order on July 24th at the Perdue Complex to discuus the serious drought in the area and wht options the Livestock producers have. The Saskatchewan Cattleman’s Association was created in 2009 from other groups including the Cattle Feeders and the Stock Growers to give representation to the livestock industry on a provincial and federal level.

The Cattleman’s Association have representation across the province with 16 board members including 11 district members and members at large, Shelby Corey is the local representative. Garret Poletz is a member at large and Grant McLellan is the CEO of the association.

The meeting was brought up as a result of the drought conditions that have hampered the area for the last number of years, which in some cases goes back 7 years.

The association is looking for idea’s and programs and lobby governments to help the struggling livestock farmers maintain their farms and to help the cattle producers grow.

How do you help cattle producers with these tough challenges that face the industry and to help get money and resources onto the farms.

Some idea’s that have come forward is pro-

RCMP Report July 24

This week Biggar

Detachment responded to 27 occurrences, with only four traffic safety violations and one warning issued this past week. One minor collision where a Chev Silverado from Red Deer ran into a post at the Esso. A couple of complaints about dirt bikes stunting along the highway and the noise they were creating. As well as a report of a Volkswagen Jetta

grams like the low yield threshold that works with Saskatchewan Crop Insurance to harvest low yield crops or green feed into viable feed for the cattle.

Other questions is how to get the grain producers to help in this program.

Minister Merrit announced on July 12th to help move green feed quickly.

It was noted that Saskatchewan Crop Insurance needs to move quickers to ensure that the low yield green feed can be produced quicker and into the hands of the livestock producers quicker. Also requested from the federal government the federal livestock tax pro program to help get money in the hands of the producers to buy feed for their cattle.

The association has also asked for the implementation of the agri recovery program and the minister announced last week that they have put that application to the federal government, Alberta and British Columbia have also put in applications. The association is hoping that these conversations move quickly as this was the basis in 2021 of the 200 dollar per head payment that came out for the cattle producers and a request to have that same program return.

With conversations around the room most producers have said that the 200 dollar per head

did help with the costs on the farm.

Questions were asked around the room as to whether that program can sustain the herd throughout the year and keep the number of cattle up, or if more money is needed. Also asked around the room was about the infrastructure program for water, if these programs were sufficient with a 75% government cost share or if this program needs to be changed going forward.

It was noted with some producers that the income threshold was to high for the small cattle producing farms and that because income levels were to high that most of the small producers didn’t qualify for grants.

There were some producers around the room that noted that the water infrastructure was very important but should be expanded to included more electrical.

There was also talk around the room because of these high thresholds of income levels that it very hard for young people to get into the industry.

It was noted that between land prices and cost for feed that there are fewer and fewer small farms staying a float in todays market.

One of the concerns in the cattle industry is how many producers are selling out and leaving the industry.

It was also noted that

Biggar RCMP report

catching fire in the RM of Eagle Creek on Hwy 376.

A few animal complaints received, one of a dog that was abandoned in the Eagle Creek area, concerned residents have found it a good home, a report of cats being relocated from town against their will, and for the third time a noise complaint of a barking dog on 7 Ave

Suspicious activity reported in the late hours in Kinley

about people going into abandoned yards, seven general nuisance calls concerning the usual cast and crew for Biggar, a call of trespassing, one call of theft and an alarm call. Another call of a disturbance in Perdue concerning a resident in their birthday suit catching a few sun rays on their front deck that was a little too public. As Ray Stevens would say “I hollered, don’t look Ethel,

as of July 21st, 28 rural municipalities across the province of Saskatchewan had declared a “State of Emergency” with regards to drought.

Minister of Agriculture for Saskatchewan, Dwayne Summach, was on hand to answer questions regarding programs available from the province and more importantly how to access these programs on the website. Other expenses noted in the conversations was about the high cost of the federal carbon tax and what this cost is doing the farm, a comment made by MP Kelly Block was to “Let’s get rid of the car bon tax”

Other comments on ex penses was about the in

but it was too late”

Biggar Detachment with the help of Saskatoon City Police executed a search warrant at a residence owned by Matthew Kotyk at 305 4 Ave. W.. A few thousand dollars worth of stolen property from Saskatoon was tracked out to this stash house and recovered with the help of our city partners. A long-time resident of Biggar, Charlie Logan, passed away this week. This Scottish gentleman didn’t have any family in the area, just fishing buddies and friends in the community. Charlie will be remembered by those in the community that knew him. I suspect most would have been casual acquaintances, therefore should no obituary be found, I felt it fair to share his memory with you. Take Care out there!

Sgt. Dereck Crozier

creasing trucking cost to producers.

Other comments around the room was that livestock producers have to stick together and work as one unit to ensure that the proper programs can be implemented and that producers stay on the farm.

One item that was touched on was the cost of beef in the retail sector. There seems to be a large gap between the price that the producers are getting and to what

store, comments were made on who is making the all the money? Is the retail sector losing confidence in the beef industry to keep an affordable option open.

There is lots of work to be done in the industry with producers and government and more importantly how to keep producers on the farm and continue to raise cattle.

Check other stories on these issues on page 7 and page 9

PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST FRAUD

The collecting the stolen property at the house into the UHaul. 8 members of the Saskatoon City police were out to help. Purposely left there vehicles out of the photo. Photo Submitted

CEO Grant McLellan, Shlby Corey, SCA Analyst Leanne and Garret Poletz Lead a meeting by the Saskatchewan Cattleman’s Association.

Photo for The Independentby Dale Buxton

Saskatchewan can’t get overconfident in its finances

By Gage Haubrich

Last year was a fiscal blessing for Saskatchewan. Let’s make sure the province doesn’t squander it

If any farmer walked into their accountant’s office to finish off their year-end statements and discovered that they had made four times more than what they were expecting, they would assume their accountant was cooking the books. But in the case of the provincial government, it’s true.

Initially, the 2022 budget predicted an almost $500 million deficit, but a huge revenue windfall left the province with a $1.5 billion surplus.

Overall, the government raked in $3.4 billion more in revenue than the budget projected. That’s enough extra money to build 12 new Mosaic Stadiums, home to the Saskatchewan Roughriders. But this isn’t something the government should expect every year.

This is the province’s first balanced budget since 2015 and its largest surplus since 2008. The surplus allowed the government to pay back $1.5 billion in debt this year.

That’s estimated to save taxpayers about $6 million a month in interest payments.

But let’s get one thing straight: The provincial government ran a surplus because huge piles of cash unexpectedly showed up at the legislature’s doorsteps. It’s not because provincial politicians suddenly decided to become prudent budgeters.

Tax collections are up $1.7 billion from what was projected in the budget. That’s a 21 percent increase. Non-renewable revenues increased $1.7 billion compared to the budget. That’s a 58 percent increase.

Even high schoolers taking their first accounting class would easily be able to balance the books with this kind of windfall.

And while the government didn’t blow the budget by spending all this new cash, it didn’t hold spending to budgeted levels either. The provincial government still blew its spending budget by almost $1.4 billion in 2022.

Looking ahead to 2023, the government is also expecting a surplus. It’s more good news, and the government plans to use

it to pay down even more debt.

Continuing debt repayment is sorely needed. Over the last 10 years, the provincial government has increased the debt from $4.9 billion in 2013 to a projected $18.1 billion at the end of this

year. That’s including the two latest repayments. Instead of practicing fiscal restraint, the government is counting on another year of near-record resource revenues to achieve 2023’s forecasted surplus. The government is projecting resource

revenues of $3.3 billion for this year. That’s higher than any number in

recent history except for 2022’s record amount.

Provincial Viewpoint

Mandryk

Think of the long-awaited three provincial as a bit of a mini-general election, a test run for the October 2024 campaign to come.

Of course, it’s not quite that. In fact, the results on August 10th of the by-election votes won’t change anything now and probably won’t be a very good predictor of what Saskatchewan voters will do 15 months from now.

By-elections a big test for the Sask. Party

When the province’s 30th general election rolls around most are expecting to see what we’ve all seen after the last four elections, a comfortable Saskatchewan Party majority based on their locksolid support in rural ridings and enough support from the cities. Yes, it would be incredibly telling if any party other than the Sask. Party won Lumsden-Morse that has been vacant since March after the retirement of Lyle Stewart for health reason. but that seems unlikely.

The Sask. Party has won every rural seat for last three general elections and has never lost as rural seat in a by by-election since it came into being in 1997.

Regina Walsh Acres and Regina Coronation Park are more intriguing in

that they are seats that were last represented by the Sask. Party MLAs in north Regina that has a long history of NDP representation in that area. Coronation Park became open when former speaker Mark Docherty announced his retirement in February and Walsh Acres became open due to the death of Derek Myers in March. Both were valued community MLAs that connected well with voters.

In fact, Docherty created quite a stir on a recent podcast when be said by the end of his tenure as a government MLA, he was struggling to explain to voters why they should continue to vote for the Sask. Party.

It is here where the three by-elections amounted to a mini-referendum in advance of next year’s prov-

ince wide vote. Losing one of both city seats will just not have much of effect on the current political landscape.

It’s arguably as crucial for new NDP Leader Carla Beck to regain both of the city seats here party once held. the NDP held Coronation Park until 2011 and lost Walsh Acres in the 2020 elections. Expectations are high for the NDP.

But for Premier Scott and his Sask. Party government, these current by-elections are an interesting measure of how government is managing diverse challenges.

In Lumsden-Morse, Saskatchewan United Party (SUP) candidate Jon Hromek is running hard on family value issues, centred around the controversy in which Planned Parenthood brought into

a Grade 9 Lumsden classroom age-inappropriate material into the school that was obtained by one of the students.

Education Minister

Dustin Duncan has temporarily banned Planned Parenthood from providing any sex education lectures until a complete run of their material and curriculum is complete (both the school and Duncan himself acknowledge that there was nothing inappropriate about the actual presentation.)

Hromek and SUP say Moe and the Sask. Party are not taking the issue seriously enough. However, city voters seem more interested in local issues like jobs, homelessness and housing and inflation costs partly driven by increased utility rates.

It represents a healthy division between rural and

urban people. In Regina and possibly Saskatoon, Moe’s hammering on the federal Liberal government and the NDP connection through their federal leader Jagmeet Singh doesn’t seem to be quite as effective.

That said, many rural people have similar frustrations about jobs and inflation and what may be shaping to a tough crop year hit by drought. Crop quality varies, even in the Lumsden-Morse riding where there has been a lack of rain on west side of the riding.

And exactly how Moe and the Sask. Party balances off the wide-ranging issues and pressures from both the right and the left may turn in to a good test run for the coming election.

Murray

Notable Notes

Bob Mason

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!” is an expression that has been around a long time and I believe that its sentiment is exactly right!

Whereas, without a doubt, a person from the Prairie will stare in awe and appreciation at the monumental and almost overwhelming specta -

cles to be found in the mountains. Take that same Prairie type and put them in a flat countryside where visibility stretches all the way to the horizon and we’ll soon find out which setting appeals to them the most.

Give this same person a whiff of mountain meadow and let them compare it to that of wolf willow blooming in a flatland pasture, and we’ll realize that to a person from the Prairie, there is no choice!

To the native son of Saskatchewan The heart of the world is here!

Of course there are those who see only what meets their eyes! But more than one traveller in the past has remarked to me about how our way of life out here has affect-

ed them. And much the same as an urban type may long for the bright lights that are so much a part of their way of life, so does the Prairie person appreciate this open countryside which makes them feel at home!

There is beauty to be found all across our part of the world. From the coral beaches of Antigua, across the hundreds of parks of our continent, to the snowy slopes of Mt. St. Elias in the Yukon. It doesn’t matter where a person lives!

“Be it ever so humble ... there’s no place like home!”

Incidentally, while mentioning Antigua, a relation of ours spent some time on that island administering to the many needs of its poor, right alongside a development that catered

only to the very rich!

A beautiful island with beautiful beaches in a beautiful sea. But to some, it was only as beautiful as their dollars made it!

Maybe we don’t have soaring peaks, beautiful beaches, quaint old lighthouses and chalets to publicize the splendour of Saskatchewan. But we do have something else that is a far greater component of beauty. Something that is overlooked in the ratrace that has so engulfed us all yet means so much to us - that welcome feeling of “I belong here!” and “This is home!”

Sometimes I think that societies ambitions have cast a stigma across our vision and acceptance of what is really beautiful.

A great part of our heritage in Canada and especially here in Saskatch-

ewan has been our abhorrence of violence. And yet violence is portrayed so often as a way-of-life on a lot of our entertainment. From the Loyalists (who didn’t want to fight) and the immigrants (who sought a refuge here from violence and persecution in other lands) to the native folk (who have always wanted to live in peace) we are as considerate a group of people as ever wanted to get along together!

Nevertheless, some people are bound to ask, “What in the world can you possibly find attractive in Saskatchewan?”

I’m proud to report that many of us are prouder to reply, “We see peace and a way-of-life out here that promises fulfilment of man’s greatest dream. We see a countryside that

A Word or Two from the Mayor of Biggar

or have questions about a block sign or main street sign, please stop by the Town Office or call (306) 948-3317. As always, a major thank you to all the volunteers that helped in any way with the community lead fundraising campaign. This would not have been done to this quality without you.

Biggar Revitalization Update

As we approach August it signifies the summer season is at its peak and certainly, we can see the signs that mother nature provides that reminds us of things to come. The trees are yellowing, and the crops are seemingly maturing quickly so an early harvest may be in the works. It’s always great to see our recreation facilities buzzing with activity in this great weather and it seems the extension to the walking path on the west side has been met very favourably amongst its users. The extension starts just north of the United Church and meanders its way on the north side of the residences and businesses on Turnbull and continues to the area that will be home to the new Gateway phase of the Revitalization Project. If you haven’t had the opportunity to check out the path I would recommend it greatly – it’s beautiful! I am including an update on the Revitalization Project in this submission to keep everyone informed of where we are at with it.

Biggar Revitalization Update

The amount pledged as of July 21, 2023, is $2,442,318.34! Thank you to everyone that has donated to date. If you are interested in donating

In 2023, The Town of Biggar was awarded a Saskatchewan Municipal Award for our community engagement, municipal governance, planning and implementation of the Biggar Revitalization Project. A big thank you goes out to all the businesses on Main Street and to the community for their patience last summer/fall during the construction and this winter/ spring as we learned our new maintenance procedures for the new look Main Street.

Phase 1 – Business Core and Phase 2 – Transition Zone are 99% completed. Please expect annual upkeep and touchups. The total cost including the Town paid water main and service connections infrastructure, also including all the applicable taxes and all engineering fees to date is $7,532,506.01 for these two phases. The Town did receive a $750,000 grant from the Federal Government through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund for the above ground beautification and we also received a grant from Eco-West Canada in the amount of $15,000 for the EV stations.

Phase 3 – Gateway. Planning continues for the gateway entrance area. The Town has just ac-

quired land from Duperow Co-op and is subdividing this land for a larger gateway entrance area into Biggar. You will now see the construction of a walking path through the area that will be the Gateway Entrance. This area is proposed to consist of number of picnic tables, a new welcome sign, an archway that will match the one in the Grand Central Park area, a new parking area, relocated Town signage, a community event board, flag poles, and to complete sidewalks from 8th to Turnbull on the West Side. We continue to work with our consultants on designing the area and you will see more work in the area this summer/fall.

Phase 4 – Grand Central Park (Naming to Possibly Change). The Town has signed a non-disclosure agreement with CN with respect to the land acquisition for the proposed development. In the background, we are well along in the detailed designed process for this area and thank the community for their valuable input during the open houses in April 2023. Small changes were made, and we hope to have this project tender ready this fall with an anticipated construction in the spring of 2024.

The Biggar and District Health Centre will be experiencing disruptions due to physician shortages. We are in regular communication with

Saskatchewan Health Authority representatives, and we are working to rectify the situation as quickly as possible. Please watch for notices and bulletins regarding disruptions but also know we have come a long way in the last year and a half to ensure the services we have will remain in Biggar and we stand committed to solving disruptions. We have a great team of health care professionals in all departments at our facility – and we are very thankful for the opportunity to have a community voice in our healthcare facility. Be sure to keep your eyes open for bulletins on the monthly meetings hosted by our Health Centre – everyone is welcome to attend and the topic changes each month.

Farm In the Dell is still very much in the works for Biggar. Please watch out for updates as it is a project that has been overwhelmingly supported by everyone that has the vision for establishment in Biggar. We have the drive; we have the spirit and we have to keep the momentum up to make this a reality.

Once again, a paving project was part of the smells and sounds of summer in Biggar. It is very important that we keep on these projects to ensure continuity of the quality that we are accustomed to. Paving and sidewalks are always a discussion at budgeting time and 2024 will be no differ-

may look bare to many, but in that countryside is that most precious feeling of ‘We belong!’ This is our home!”

What can be more beautiful than that!

Note: My own personal beauty spot around this part of the country is on the old road straight west of Langham, past the Borden Bridge turnoff to where the trail turns to follow the river hills. There it is ... straight ahead! The very bottom of Great Bend where my Daddy homesteaded so many years ago!

What a wonderful view! No wonder William ‘Bill’ Perehudoff became an artist!

NO PAPER NEXT WEEK

ent. We had a large slate of activities in Biggar again this year including music events, ball tournaments, youth soccer, Town and Country Fair Days, rodeos, swim meet and we still have more coming. The motorcycle rally is once again on the agenda. When people say that nothing happens here or there has been no development – they are wrong, our Main Street is vibrant and so many great compliments have been given on the new look. We couldn’t be prouder to be Biggar! And of course – check out the sign corridors leading into town – not only are they very popular with the businesses as the requests for sign spaces keep rolling in, but we’ve had so many compliments on this project and recognition in municipal publications – it’s been amazing – another example of Biggar leading the way. We often take for granted the comforts of smalltown Saskatchewan and occasionally unfavourable changes occur. I would remind everyone to report anything that may seem suspicious or out or the ordinary to either the RCMP or the Town Office as soon as identified. Our safety and future depend on everyone’s participation to keep us as a com-

munity of choice in Saskatchewan.

As always, I remind everyone to shop local and support our businesses and services as much as possible. We have an enthusiastic group reigniting the Biggar Chamber of Commerce and we certainly welcome the great things that can be achieved by a united group of businesses. Many hands make for light work so please consider getting involved with groups, organizations, and events within our town. Volunteerism does provide that great feeling of giving back to our community and those opportunities are abundant, ask around if you are unsure, you will be surprised what goes on in our community that you may want to get involved in. If you’re already involved and active in making Biggar a great place to be – thank you… your energies and involvement don’t go unnoticed. Our sun filled evenings are noticeably shortening so please get out and enjoy the amenities that we have in our town –even consider joining the new pickle-ball rage, it certainly has established its presence and momentum in Biggar, because that’s what we do… we get involved in community.

Ask The Money Lady

Christine

Ibbotson

Dear Money Lady

In my newspaper this morning there was an article from you on the subject of reverse mortgages. An elderly lady on a fixed income had written you seeking your advice on this subject. A couple of years ago I was considering a reverse mortgage because I was in a similar situation - asset rich, cash poor. Then I read an article from you on the sub-

ject of a collateral charge, and I watched your video on the subject and decided this was a better option for me. The reverse mortgage companies wanted me to draw out a minimum of $25,000 to start the account. This was not the case with a collateral charge. I discussed it with a financial advisor who directed me toward Manulife One which is essentially a collateral charge product. After researching this, I applied and was approved for a Manulife One account whereby all my income and expenses come out of one account which has a line of credit attached to it. The line of credit they approved was approximately two thirds the value of my house. More than enough for my future needs. I am not required to draw down any money, but the safety net

is there if I need it. So far my account has not once moved into a negative position, and they are paying me interest every month on any positive balances in the account. They also issued me a Visa card and automatically pay it off every month from my ONE account, keeping any potential interest charges low should the cash not be in the account. Your article and video opened my eyes to a product I have not only enjoyed but has given me peace of mind for the last couple of years. Please repeat this article for the benefit of others like this lady who was worrying about paying her bills. Thank you Nicholas from Halifax. Dear Nicholas, thank you for allowing me to share your email message. I couldn’t have said it better!

I have often talked about the benefits of a collateral charge and even though the interest rates are on the rise, I still feel this product is the best option for Canadians. Mortgages are the bank’s biggest money-making machines regardless of rate and amortization. The structure is the problem. Mortgages are calculated “semi-annually, not in advance” which means they adjust the interest twice a year and base it on the payment selection and amortization you have chosen. So, this means over the course of a 5-year fixed mortgage, interest is adjusted 10 times, (5 years multiplied by 2 times/year). This does not happen with a collateral charge. A collateral charge is a “true pay for what you owe” type product adjusting the interest 12 times a year or

Agriculture

Calvin Daniels

By Calvin Daniels

Recently I spent some time in a garden talking beans and as we wound down the actual interview we ended up sitting on a couple of lawn chairs in the shade of a bin. As often happens in such cases the conversation

each month when the balance changes after your regular payments. When comparing this to a 5-year term on a typical mortgage, the interest would have readjusted 60 times, (5 years multiplied by 12 times/year). Clearly, it is obvious that in a collateral charge the interest you are paying monthly is adjusted downward with each monthly payment you make. Each month, more money goes to principle and less to interest, unlike a fixed mortgage that is front-loaded and pre-set based on the 6-month/semi-annual calculation.

A collateral charge can be placed on your property for 100% and can then be broken into multiple segments all with different terms, rates and payments based on your needs and requirements. This product has no re-

What is food security?

soon wandered to other topics, which at least had ancillary connections to beans, beans, even if not exactly material for the article I was doing.

One topic that did pop up was the idea of what exactly food security is?

Most are likely to suggest it comes down to earning enough money to buy the food the family requires, but in the conversation that day in the shade we questioned if that wasn’t missing the point of being food secure.

You can have a wheel barrel full of cash and if you arrive at the grocery store and the shelves are empty, the money won’t feed the family.

Certainly in North America people go hungry because of money shortages, and grocery stores

are typically well-stocked, but that is not the case in other countries, and may not always be the case here either.

We have all heard of food shortages in stores in other countries over the years – the former Soviet Union as an example, and the disruptions from COVID-19 certainly hinted we could easily see food distribution impacted here too.

So food security is much more about taking some direct control of food production. That can mean buying from local producers rather than relying on a system getting food to a store shelf from a few thousand miles away. It also means growing more of our own food. Sadly, the idea of a backyard garden is disappear-

LIST

Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before September 27, 2023, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.

Note: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.

ing as we seemingly believe it is better to mow grass, and then complain about the cost of groceries.

What is perhaps more concerning is that as gardens become rarer, we lose not just the personal food supply, but the knowledge of growing food – things such as how planting marigolds in the potato patch can control potato beetles. Hand many today a bucket of cucumbers, would there be the knowledge to make pickles? Yes, there is the tool called Google, but will it be there in the future? Will it be free? Then when the modern family has potatoes

and beans and peas and turnips, where are they stored?

How many homes have cold storage for root veggies? How have we evolved to the point an apartment may come with a basically a luxury item dishwasher, but do any come with a deep freeze for food? Then of course comes the

newal, so once you place it on your property, you do not have to qualify again and you can keep it in place for as long as you own your home. The flexibility is what I like best, and you can apply for this product at most financial institutions. You can pay off a collateral charge at any time, draw it down again, mix it up into different segments for business or personal uses and even use it as a tax writeoff in certain situations. For the right type of client, it’s true freedom, allowing you to manage your money your way.

Good Luck & Best Wishes,Written by Christine Ibbotson, Author, Finance Writer. Send your money questions through her website at : askthemoneylady.ca

question of food preparation. Are we teaching skills such as processing a whole chicken into something tasty on the table? Or, are we creating a future where its delivery, or microwave only?

In the end it’s pretty obvious food security is increasingly a mirage for most.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

RURAL MUNICIPAL ADMINISTRATOR POSITION

e RM of Reford #379 is currently accepting application for the position of Rural Municipal Administrator. is position comes with a full bene ts including:

• Pension Bene ts

• Health and Dental Coverage

• Short Term Disability Coverage

• Long Term Disability Coverage

• Life Insurance

• Glasses Coverage, Etc.

e person selected for this position will require at minimum a Rural “C” certi cate issued by the Rural Municipal Administrators Association of Saskatchewan with 3 to 5 years’ experience in Local Government Administration.

A de nite asset to this position would be experience with the Muniso Computer System. e o ce is located in the Town of Wilkie approximately 35 km southwest of the Battlefords.

For more information, you could contact the RM directly at:

Phone: 306 843-2342

E-mail rm379@sasktel.net

Fax: 306 843-2455

Anyone interested in this position could send your resume stating Certi cate held, Years of experience and salary expected to:

RM of Reford #379

Box 100

Wilkie, Sk.

S0K 4W0

Or by fax or e-mail. Don McCallum Interim Administrator

CROP REPORT FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 4 TO JULY 10, 2023

Crops continued to progress this week with the warm temperatures across the province. Canola is beginning to pod and wheat is beginning to flower in many areas. Dry conditions are impacting parts of the province and many producers are hoping for rain immediately.

Very little rain was received this week. The most rain was in the Dinsmore area, with 14 mm. A large decrease in soil moisture accompanied the warm weather this past week. Crop land topsoil moisture is currently 21 per cent adequate, 55 per cent short and 24 per cent very short. Hay and pastureland topsoil moisture is currently 17 per cent adequate, 55 per cent short and 28 per cent very short.

Crops are either ahead or at normal stages of development for this time of year. Fall cereals are 31 per cent ahead and 66 per cent at normal stages of development. Spring cereals are 33 per cent

ahead and 60 per cent at normal stages of development. Oilseeds are also 33 per cent ahead and 58 per cent at normal stages of development. Pulse crops are 28 per cent ahead and 67 per cent at normal stages of development.

Crops are generally in good to fair condition. Provincially, winter wheat and soybean crops are in the best condition, with 60 per cent of winter wheat in good condition and 67 per cent of soybean in good condition. Mustard and canary seed are the crops in the poorest condition. Thirty-five per cent of mustard and 21 per cent of canary seed is in very poor condition.

Producers have made swift and steady progress with haying this week.

Fifty-one per cent of the first cut of hay has been baled or silaged, while 26 per cent is cut and 23 per cent is still standing. The quality of hay ranges from excellent to fair, with 59 per cent in good quality.

Crop damage this week comes from heat and moisture stress and grasshoppers. Producers are reminded to keep in mind economic thresholds when scouting for grasshoppers and to reach out to their local regional office if they have any questions.

Many producers are haying and monitoring their pastures now. With the heat, water quality is at the top of mind for many. If producers are concerned about the quality of their water source for livestock, they can bring in samples to their local regional office for testing.

A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online –Download Crop Report. https://www.saskatchewan.ca/cropreport

The growing season is stressful time of year and producers are reminded to take all safety precautions in all the work they do. The Farm Stress Line is there to help by providing support for producers toll

Assistance for livestock producers

July 21, 2023 (Regina, SK) – In partnership with the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association (SCA), the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is asking producers in droughtstricken areas to strongly consider a new program from the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) to support the livestock sector and make these crops available for feed.

Recently, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) announced that they are doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold levels, allowing additional acres of lowyielding cereal, pulse crops, canola, and flax to be diverted to feed.

The agriculture sector in Saskatchewan is diverse, and in these challenging times, it’s important to work together to ensure farmers and ranchers in this province get the support they need when they need it.

For the third year in a row, many cattle producers are again facing drought-re-

For Sale

free at 1-800-667-4442. Follow the 2023 Crop Report on Twitter at @ SKAgriculture.

For more information, contact: Mackenzie Hladun Agriculture Regina Phone: 306-694-3592 Email: Mackenzie.hladun@gov.sk.ca

So -Coated Wheaten Terrier Puppies

Website: wheatandgreetbreeding.ca

Email: wheatandgreetbreeding@gmail.com

lated issues, from drastic feed shortages and the threat of a massive herd reduction. There is a real risk that many producers will leave the industry, and that has serious implications across rural Saskatchewan.

“Livestock production is an integral part of our agricultural industry. Our industry is at its best when crops and livestock production are successful,”

APAS President Ian Boxall said. “As a crop producer, I encourage others who may be experiencing drought conditions to consider activating the Low Yield Program as a means of helping livestock producers ensure access to feed.”

“Many livestock producers have been facing years of compounding drought, and the need for feed is urgent,” says Keith Day, SCA Board Chair. “As your friends and neighbours, we are asking for any help that farmers and crop producers are able to provide.”

There are many options for farmers looking to

redirect crops written off due to low yield or grasshopper damage, including allowing a neighbour to cut and bale the crop or even allowing temporary fencing to be put up for grazing, which has the added benefit of manure for those acres. APAS encourages crop producers who may not have livestock to consider their options to convert their insured crops into a feed source to help alleviate feed shortages. Contact your local crop insurance office for more information.

APAS is also encouraging all producers to attend townhall meetings next week to discuss drought.

On Monday July 24 there’s a meeting in Perdue at the Perdue Rec Complex that begins at 1:30 PM, and on Tuesday July 25 another meeting will take place in Kindersley at the Canalta Inn at 1:30.

For more information, please contact: Ryan McNally, APAS Communications Manager 306.789.5176 communications@apas.ca

We continue on our B.C. trip heading north on highway number 93.

Fort Steele is a heritage site and sits in the East Kootenay region on the east shore of the Kootenay River.

John Galbraith arrived in the area to prospect for gold on the “Wild Horse Creek”, which is a tributary of the Kootenay River.

In the same year Galbraith was awarded a charter for a toll ferry across the river, he also established a general store, in which he made a considerable profit with all the gold field traffic.

Tensions in the area were quite high with the first nations people and the numerous prospectors that were coming to the area to find their fortune.

In 1887 Superintendent

Sam Steele of the Northwest Mounted Police arrived with constables to set up a detachment to defuse the tensions that were happening. This detachment of the NWMP was the first post in British Columbia and was therefore named a National Historic Site of Canada in 1925 and the

province acquired the site to be a historic park.

Fort Steele never really had a fort but the detachment kind of had that appearance look and in 1888 the community adopted the name Fort Steele.

The population of Fort Steele in the early days of prospecting was over 3000, but as prospecting went down so did the population.

Fort Steele was destined to be the divisional point of the railway, but that was awarded to Cranbrook.

When staying Fort Steele there are many tourist attractions like horse-drawn carriage rides, blacksmithing demos, gold panning and something really cool is the 25km rides on a preserved steam train.

If golfing is your thing there are many high quality golf courses in the area and some of the most fabulous food outlets with many choices.

Next up on the highway we come to the community of

The Biggar Independent will be closed from - August on August GONE BIKING

Skookumchuck.

The name Skookunchuck comes from a old first nations name as “stream of rapid torrent”, the main industry in the area has always been mining and logging but in the area of tourism the rapids are a favourite among people that find a thrill to run the rapids in a canoe.

In the prospecting days of the gold rush, prospectors would build cabins on the creek.

In 1968 a pulp mill was established and still operates today bringing continued prosperity to the region. Traveling along this stretch of British Columbia you can’t help to notice the spectacular views offered along the Kootenay River.

Next up down the highway is Fairmont Hot Springs, which has a population of around 500 residents, however in the peak tourist seasons populations can swell into a few thousand people.

Fairmont Hot Springs has been made popular by the hot spring water that comes seeping out of the ground. Most of the original buildings still stands and the local resort is cantered around the natural springs spa.

Fairmont Hot Springs is totally geared around tourism and is a popular winter destination with snowboarding and skiing. Stay tuned for more adventures of The Saskatchewan Traveller...

LOTS of DOOR PRIZES

Inclusion Biggar is looking for volunteers and part time workers to help support individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in our community.

We are open to all ages and can accommodate most schedules. We will provide all training and make sure you are set up for success. All you need is the right attitude and a kind heart.

If you would like to learn more, please email: inclusionbiggar@gmail.com

You can help people in your community live a Biggar life!

At the recent CFMTA Conference in Edmonton, AB, Peggy L’Hoir was presented with the Hugheen Ferguson Distinguished Teacher Award by the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers Association shown above with President Laura Gray and Vice President Marlaine Osgood. This award is given to individuals that have made a significant impact on the musical community – nationally, provincially and/or locally - through service and teaching.

Presently being an active and integral part of the intergenerational music scene in Biggar as a teacher and collaborative artist, Peggy is a Past President of the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers Association, the Saskatchewan Registered Music Teachers Association and the West Central Registered Music Teachers Association. She is acknowledged provincially and nationally as a composer, adjudicator, examiner, and clinician.

Peggy continues to serve her community by catalyzing events including performances featuring local talent, acting as Teacher Rep for the Biggar Music Festival, teaching piano privately as well as for the Heart of the City Piano Program, and bringing musicians, young and old, from across Canada to Biggar in events like Summer Sizzle. Congratulations, Peggy!

ursday August 3rd BBQ STARTING AT NOON

Dhruv and his staff want to say “Thank You” to the community for their friendship and patronage

Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan provide additional support for producers; Low yield appraisal change encourages poor crops be used as feed

The federal and provincial governments announced Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation is implementing extraordinary measures to offer support to Saskatchewan livestock producers facing challenges resulting from dry conditions this year, allowing additional acres of low yielding cereal and pulse crops to be diverted to feed. This incentive allows crop producers to make timely decisions to make additional feed available to graze, bale or silage. “This change to the low yield threshold aims to help producers make critical decisions about how to move forward with their crop and feed requirements,” said the Honourable MarieClaude Bibeau, federal Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood. “Many producers have been in this unfortunate situation before, due to the risks associated with climate change, which is why we are so committed to finding agricultural innovations that will increase resiliency going forward.” “We are seeing dry pockets and grasshopper damage throughout the province, particularly in the southwest.” Minister of Agriculture David Marit said. “We are committed to supporting our farmers and ranchers to lessen the impact of these challenging conditions, and I want to encourage crop producers to again work with neighbouring livestock producers to make feed available. This same initiative was

implemented in 2021, resulting in over 345,000 acres of additional crop redirected to feed.” When crops are severely damaged and the appraised yield falls below an established threshold level, the yield is reduced to zero for the Crop Insurance claim. In response to the feed shortage this year, SCIC is doubling the low yield appraisal threshold values allowing customers to salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. For example, the 2023 threshold level for oats is 10 bushels per acre. With a doubled low yield appraisal, the threshold increases to 20 bushels per acre for a producer intending to utilize the oats for feed. The claim is determined using a zero-bushel yield and the original 20 bushels appraised yield is used to update future Crop Insurance coverage. Before customers begin to graze, bale or silage their damaged crop, producers should contact their local SCIC office. Through the 2023 Crown Grazing Lease Rental Reduction Program, lessees may be eligible for a rent reduction in situations where individual lessees or pasture associations must reduce stocking rates on leases by 20 per cent or more below the rated carrying capacity their leased grazing land. Eligible lessees will have the 2023 grazing rent reduced by 20 to 50 per cent. To help manage

the challenges associated with dry conditions, AgriStability participants may apply for the interim benefit option to access a portion of their 2023 benefit early. Producers enrolled in AgriStability for the 2023 year can access 50 per cent of their estimated final benefit. Also, in most cases, the additional expenses a producer incurs to procure additional feed is an eligible expense through the AgriStability Program. Producers are encouraged to contact the Farm Stress Line for support. The Farm Stress Line is a confidential service, available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, toll-free at 1-800-667-4442. Calls are answered by Mobile Crisis Services Regina, a non-profit, communitybased agency and there is no call display. Crop Insurance is a federalprovincial-producer costshared program that helps producers manage production and quality losses. Support for the program is provided by the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

Producers concerned about dry conditions should contact their local SCIC office. For more information, call 1-888935-0000 or visit scic.ca.

For more information, contact:

Samantha Edel Saskatchewan Crop In-

surance Corporation (SCIC)

Melville

Phone: 639-398-4258

Email: samantha.edel@ scic.ca

•Biggar Facilities

•Biggar Billets

•Biggar Food Makers

•Biggar Artisans

•Biggar Volunteers

•Biggar People

•Biggar Summer Sizzle Committee

Congratulations to the U13 Biggar Nationals on their provincial win!

The U13 Biggar Nationals baseball team are 2023 AA Tier 7 provincial champions. The team started their tournament in Saskatoon with a win over the Saskatoon Brave Storm 16-8. The team kept the momentum going with a 14-12 win over the Saskatoon A’s Vipers to go a perfect 2-0 on day 1. Biggar then started day 2 with a 15-5 win over the Saskatoon Blue Jat=y Warriors, before suffering their first loss, 25-19 at the hands of the Sask 5 Giant Sluggers. With their 3-1 record, they played in the first semifinal game on Sunday, winning 12-3 over the Saskatoon Crackin Cardinals. Moving onto the gold medal final against the Saskatoon Royal Rampage, they won 20-15, to win the championship.

The boys worked so hard all season and everything “clicked” this past weekend at the Provincial U13 Tournament in Saskatoon, from fielding, too pitching, too they’re unbelievable hitting. We are so proud of these boys and a huge thank you to our dedicated coaches. Thank you to all our local support, to all the fans that came to cheer them on.

Team Members:

Yadin Scott, Dryden Harrabek, Callan Ireland, Mason Poitras, Xander Hebert, Gavin Dorosh, Blake Hawkins, Seamus Winsor, Rowan Taylor, Lucas Brisbin, Owen Meschishnick

Coaches: Matt Poitras, Dion Harrabek, Rob Meschishnick

Ass’t Coaches: Mike Scott, Todd Hawkins, Kelly Dorosh

Good weekend for Biggar Ball

The Biggar Nationals u15 Girls Softball team battled hard but lost in the bronze medal game today. Forth place amongst 29 teams and they’re all first year players except one. Look out next year!

Penton on sports

Bruce Penton

If an unseeded player like Marketa Vondrousova can shock the tennis world and win the women’s singles at Wimbledon, if eighth-seeded Florida Panthers can make it all the way to the Stanley Cup final, then there’s no reason why Canada’s women’s soccer team can’t win the FIFA Women’s World Cup. For the sake of Christine Sinclair, perhaps the world’s greatest female soccer player ever, a win by Canada at the 2023 championship currently being staged in Australia and New Zealand would be a perfect capper to Sinclair’s cap-filled career on the pitch.

Sinclair’s skills are still world class, but the Burnaby, B.C. star is 40 years old and, well, Old Man (or Women) Time always wins in the end. With more than 320 caps (international games while representing her country) to her credit and a world-best 190 goals in those games, Sinclair’s status as the best female soccer player of all time is secure, but her career is missing one important ingredient: a FIFA Women’s World Cup championship.

Canada is not one of the world’s powers in the sport, but our country

World Cup win would cement Sinclair’s legacy

is not one of the worst, either. Ranked seventh in the world going into the World Cup, it wouldn’t be considered a gigantic upset if Sinclair and Co. were to win. After all, the team reached the quarterfinals when it hosted the World Cup back in 2015.

Canada also has a gold and two bronze medals in the past three Olympics. The Canadian team competed in a pool with Nigeria, Republic of Ireland and Australia, and finishes the round-robin portion of the event July 31. Finishing first or second in their pool would put the Canadians into the playoff round of 16 starting Aug. 4.

A heavy dose of humility comes over Sinclair whenever someone calls her the best player in the world, but the numbers back it up. And winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup in her sixth attempt would settle the ‘world’sbest’ argument for good. It’s unlikely Sinclair would be around for a seventh Women’s World Cup in 2027, but if she still knows how to put the ball into the net, and is tired of doing commercials for the sandwich chain Subway, retirement might be pushed back. If Gordie Howe can play in the NHL at age 51, Christine Sinclair still scoring big goals on the world stage at age 44 is not out of the question.

An RJ Currie groan- • er at Sportsdeke.com: “Iowa firefighters were surprised to find a man they just rescued from a chimney was buck naked. That’s right, wearing his birthday soot.”

Phil Mushnick of the • New York Post:, who hated the MLB all-star

game uniforms: “Once again, the final score in the MLB All Star Game: The team in the blue pajamas 3, the team in the teal pajamas 2.”

Headline from the • Canadian parody website

The Beaverton: ““Who gives a (blank) about the CFL?” asks man who recently started watching professional Pickleball”

Another one from The • Beaverton: “Leafs fan only wants most talented player in franchise history to re-sign if it’s at a discount”

Comedy writer Alex • Kaseberg: “Stephen Curry shot a hole-in-one at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. Maybe this will be the key in finally turning things around for poor Steph Curry.”

Columnist Rick Rielly • on Donald Trump after the former president shanked a wedge in a golf clip that went viral: “He chips like Edward Scissorhands. If he’s a 3 (handicap), Chris Christie is a high jumper.”

Columnist Sam Farm- • er of the San Francisco Chronicle, prior to the men’s final at Wimbledon: “ If Djokovic wins, how many versions of ‘Escape from Alcaraz’ are we going to see?”

Vancouver funny guy • Torben Rolfsen: “Sportsnet intro-ing the Blue Jays fans’ annual takeover of Seattle with ‘Lunatic Fringe’ by Red Rider.”

Jack Finarelli of the • Sportscurmudgon.com, on a great Casey Stengel quote: “Casey Stengel knows a few things about winning and losing in MLB. “Good pitching will always stop good hitting and vice-versa.”

tion, the Edmonton Elks continue to monitor the air quality at Commonwealth Stadium. This may be due to: a) Smoke from Alberta’s unusually high number of wildfires; b) How badly the home team stinks.

Headline at the onion. • com: “Lionel Messi Admits He Didn’t Even Know Where America

Was Before Signing To Play There”

fark.com

• headline: “Mets name official distillery, having already given their fans many reasons to drink”

Another one from fark. • com: “Coming soon to a grocery store near you in Buffalo . . . NY Jets toilet paper”

An observation from •

Sunmedia’s Steve Simmons, on his new ‘favourite player’ in the Canadian Football League: “Carthell Flowers-Lloyd, the special teamer with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. His initials: CFL” Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca

BIGGAR BARRACUDA’S IN NIPAWIN

Cody Doering; 200 Free 2nd

50 Fly 1st

100 Fly 1st

100 Free 2nd

200 IM 3rd

Keiran Massie; 200 Back 3rd

50 Fly 7th

100 Breast 3rd 100 Back 4th 200 Breast 3rd

Jakob Thomas 100 Free 6th 50 Back 5th

50 Free 4th

Presley Steeg; 25 Fly 7th

50 Breast 5th 50 Back 6th 100 Breast 4th

Everett Dowson; 100 Back 2nd

25 Fly 1st 100 Free 5th 50 Back 2nd 100 IM 2nd

Adriana Alzate Sanchez; 50 Fly 8th 100 Breast 10th 100 Free 10th 100 Back 4th

Abby Dowson; 200 Free 8th 100 Back 6th

25 Fly 12th

50 Fly 7th

100 Breast 7th

RJ Currie again:

• “According to 3downna-

BIGGAR GOLF REPORT

Valeria Alzate Sanchez; 50 Fly 8th 100 Breast 5th 100 Free 5th 100 Back 3rd 50 Free 6th

Kayden Thomas; 100 Free 7th 50 Free 8th

Jaxon Dowson; 100 Back 4th 50 Breast 2nd 100 Free 3rd 25 Fly 3rd

Ladies’ night on July 20, 2023, was sponsored by Biggar Credit Union, and we had 38 ladies out, our best turnouts yet. It was Eater themed, and golfers had an eater egg hunt and a wonderful supper made by the course staff. Our next Ladie’s Night themed night is on August 3rd, , sponsored by The Biggar Independent and we are celebrating Canada Day! Come out for Canadian themed games and wear red to show your Canada Pride. Register at the Golf course for supper. Seniors Afternoon is having supper and playing 18 holes on August 3rd as well, sign up at the Biggar golf Club. Submitted Photo

For all your investment needs, Visit… Pamela Eaton PFP Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

Lyndsey Poole PFP 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.

Ashley Booker CFP Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

Landis Office Hours: Mon.-Tue, & Fri., 9:00am - 4:30pm Wednesday, 9:30am - 4:30pm Thursday CLOSED Phone: 306-658-2044 Toll Free: 1-855-658-2044 Perdue Office Hours Mon,Tue,Thurs,Fri, 9am - 4:30 Wednesday 9:30am - 4:30 Closed at noon 12 - 12:30 Website: www.biggarlandisinsurance.ca Email: biggar@biggarinsurance.ca

Acres of Expertise. Dave Molberg Farm & Acreage Salesperson (306) 948-4478 dave.molberg@hammondrealty.ca HammondRealty.ca Shoreline Realty Cari Perih ReALToR® Cell: 306-948-7995 office: 306-867-8380 carip@remax.net www.SoldbyCari.ca homesforsale@soldbycari.ca

Jennifer Quessy Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc. Advertising is an investment in your business.

• Mobile Welding & Fabrication

A boriginal Owned • NOW offering Skidsteer, Transport, Hot Shot Service!

Busse Law ProfessionaL CorPoration Barristers & Solicitors

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

302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

306-948-3346

…serving your community since 1972

Chico’s Auto Works Richard (Chico) Livingston Journeyman Automotive Repair Technician 317 Main Street Biggar, SK 306-948-5077 chicosautoworks@sasktel.net ÿ Auto & Home Insurance ÿ Farm & Commercial Insurance ÿ Health & Travel Insurance ÿ Life Insurance & Investments ÿ Farm Succession & Estate Planning ÿ Notary Publics Biggar Office Hours… Mon. - Tue, Thur - Fri 8:30am - 5pm Wednesday, 9:30am - 5pm 304 Main St., Biggar Phone: 306-948-2204 Toll Free: 1-855-948-2204

• CWB Certified

• 24/7 Emergncy Service • We cater to ALL industries… farming, commercial, oil field, industrial C All Chance Parenteau @ 306-948-9465 or sarah nagy @ 306-290-9766

S ERVI C E S

M & N REPAIR 701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar 306-948-3996 Open Monday-Friday Mike Nahorney - Journeyman Red Seal Mechanic HEAVY TRUCK AUTO TIRES BOATS & RVs FULL MOBILE MECHANICAL SGI Safety INSPECTION

3 col/6 C AMPBELL A CC OUNTING • Personal Tax Returns • Corporate Tax Returns • Farm, AgriStability, AgriInvest • Estate Returns • Bookkeeping • Payroll

223 Main Street Biggar Email: hrbbiggar@sasktelnet Website: www.hrblock.ca aUtOMOtiVe FOr reNt BiGGar HousinG autHoritY Housing for families and seniors rent based on income Call: 306•303•7246

NEWACCEPTING CLIENTSYearRound Ph: 306-948-4430 or 306-948-4460 rodc@campbell-accounting.ca 117 - 3rd Ave. West, (New Horizons Bldg) Biggar

serVices

12-THe INDePeNDeNT, BIGGAR, SK (Answers on Page 14)

“We’ll getcha covered” DJ SERVICE FOR BOOKINGS CALL 948-3344 Métis Owned

Attention: Deanna Stevenot

Rebel Landscaping 948-2879, evenings 948-7207, daytime Ed Kolenosky

Business & Professional … YH Truck, Ag & Auto 306-948-2109 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 $20.16 per week = $524.16 plus gst) Call 306.948.3344

Jennifer: Will this work? right colour? Price: $63.00 plus gst per week for publiation on Feb 7, 14, 21, 28 Please get back to me by 5 p.m. on Monday, Feb 4 Thanks, Urla

Please proof Business & Professional directory ad to be published for the next 52 weeks (year) for $403.00 plus gst. Bill has been sent

& REFRIGERATION SERVICES Commercial and Industrial Electrical Wiring Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan 306-948-5291 Service Truck Full Mechanical Service Mon - Fri • 8 a.m.-5 p.m. phone: Chris

306-716-4021 DEMOLITION & RESTORATION STUCCO , DRYWALL CONCRETE FINISHING • Repairs? Got a project in mind? give us a call for a quote.

PROOF

Please check this copy carefully for spelling and accuracy. When you OK this proof, we cannot be held responsible for any errors that remain

noon, Fri. April 25 Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO 306-948-2183 THURSDAY, JULY 27, 2023 306-948-3376

Please approve and return by:_______________________ OK as is.

Make corrections as noted and schedule additional proof. Make corrections as noted and proceed with production without additional proof.

Initials____________

THURSDAY,

Business & Professional …

Healthy Lifestyle Weight

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK-13 HAULING

Rockin D

Trucking & Cattle

• Cattle Hauling with 21 ft. gooseneck trailer

• Grain Hauling

• round and large square bale hauling with step-deck or highboy semi-trailers

• also buying and selling straw and forage

• also Machinery Hauling

Dan • 306-948-7843

306.237.7671

Troy May, owner/operator

Fax: 306-237-TROY

email: tmay@hotmail.ca

ARIES – Mar 21/ Apr 20

Don’t rush in and act combative this week, Aries. Take a more delicate approach to convince others to see things your way. As the saying goes, “You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.”

TAURUS – Apr 21/ May 21

Are you feeling like you may want to be a wellness warrior of late, Taurus? Start by taking inventory of the foods in your home and making some healthier changes.

GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21

Gemini, if you are looking to make a few new friends, ask others to connect you with like-minded individuals. You never know who you might meet until you give it a try.

CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22

Cancer, if a delicate issue has been troubling you, reach out to someone you can trust and begin to talk things through. You will likely feel better just getting things out.

LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, are you ready to take your project to the next level? Brainstorm with a coworker about the best way to get ahead and make a mark with this endeavor.

FLOWERS CUSTOM WEDDING DECORATING & EVENTS RENTALS

306-948-9750

102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar, Sask. newufitness@sasktel.net

VIRGO – Aug 24/ Sept 22

It could be time for a move and you just aren’t ready to admit it, Virgo. You may have gotten comfortable in one place, but a move could prove the right decision.

LIBRA – Sept 23/ Oct 23

Libra, there are a lot of ideas swimming around in your head. You may need to put some things down on paper to see what really might be worth doing in the days to come.

SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22

Connect with a friend or even your partner for an intimate dinner this week. You’ve been moving in different circles and it’s time to get on the same page.

SAGITTARIUS –Nov 23/Dec 21

Invite people to stop by and cheer you up, Sagittarius. You’ve been going through a rough patch and there’s nothing like happy faces and new perspectives to bring about a smile.

CAPRICORN –Dec 22/Jan 20

Capricorn, be sure to check your bank account pretty regularly; otherwise, you may lose track of spending and get yourself into a financial mess that could be tough to get out of.

2

AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18

ELECTRICAL Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on

Dr. Kirk Ewen

Dr. Michelle Skoretz

Passenger Services

122 Main St. - Biggar Depot Macklin to Saskatoon & towns in-between Kindersley to Saskatoon & towns in-between Special Event, Airport Service or Doctorʼs Appointments

2 col/6

This

Aquarius, you may be your own worst enemy this week, especially as it pertains to thinking that someone may be trying to cause trouble with you at work. Get the facts before acting.

Brett…

Price… 2.5 inches = $201.50 plus gst per 6-month prepaid commitment.

PISCES – Feb 19/ Mar 20

Pisces, there is a process to everything. Remain patient and stay the course no matter how excited you are. Rest assured that things will work out if you can hang in there.

Please get back to me with changes/corrections by return email this morning.

Thanks Urla

Rosetown

Monday

or 306-951-0098 SERVICES Naty/Michael…

GALLARDO Liner

Did you know we offer Social Media Advertising?

Would you like to advertise on Social Media but are unsure where to start?

We can design full color Social Media friendly Ad’s for you to share on any Social Media platform. Along with your ad being shared on our Social Media pages.

Susan Yaschuk is Moving to Town

We are having a GIANT GARAGE SALE

AUGUST 18th, 19th AND 20th

10:00am - 6:00pm Each Day

Tools, Antiques, Household Items, Some Furnature and Misc.

10 Miles North

5 Miles East

2 Miles North of Biggar

Central Park Place has apartments for seniors available in Biggar Call 948-3901 0r 948-7824

St. Gabriel roman CatholiC ChurCh 109 - 7th Ave.W, Biggar Father Edward Gibney Parish Phone: 306-948-3330

Saturday Mass.......7:00p.m.

Sunday Mass....... 11:00a.m. our lady of fatima CatholiC ChurCh, Landis

Sunday Mass.......9:00a.m.

Presbyterians, Anglicans and Lutherans

Worship - 10:30 a.m.

St.Pauls Anglican Redeemer Lutheran 205 4th Ave. E 319 7th Ave. E AUGUST 27 at REDEEMER LUTHERAN ENJOY YOUR SUMMER!

Rev. Daphne Bender Pastor’s cellular Phone: 1-306-621-9559

Office Phone: 306-948-3731 (Messages are forwarded to Pastor’s phone immediately)

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

Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.

All are welcome to come and join us Biggar United ChUrCh

No Services for July

Next Church Service is August 13, 2023 For Emergency Service please call the Church office phone.

All Social Media Ad’s will also be printed in our weekly newspaper! Contact Dale at The Independent for pricing or inquiries! Bug

INQUIRIES CALL CHURCH OFFICE 306-948-2280

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH SATURDAY SERVICES

BIBLE STUDY 10:00a.m. CHURCH SERVICE 11:00a.m. 320 - 6th ave.east contact: 306-948-2481 3 abn www.amazingfacts.org

NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH

“The Lord’s mercies are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness(Lamentations3:22-23)” You are Invited

Sunday Tea and Coffee -10:15am Worship - 10:30am

NEW HORIZONS 117 3rd Ave. W, Biggar

For more info - Philip Watson - 250-487-8476

Tired

ROBERT “BOB” GORDON TYLER

JUNE 17, 1947 - JULY 9, 2023

Bob was born in Milden Hospital, Milden, Sask. to Frederick and Marian Tyler on June 17, 1947. He grew up like any typical farm kid until he contracted the polio virus at the age of five. He spent six months in the three Saskatoon hospitals and even some time in the iron lung. Prognosis was he’d never walk but with his mother exercising him he was able to walk and work on the family farm. He would hay, throw bales, summer fallow, haul grain at harvest on the fly, participated in 4-H, and raised rabbits for pets. Cows, pigs, horses, chickens, turkeys and various other farm animals kept the whole family busy with chores. He also had a strong right throwing arm in ball and football.

Bob attended Glenhurst Country School by horse and buggy and completed his schooling at Milden Central School in 1966. He then attended Moose Jaw Tech for one year. Bob started working as Assistant Administrator for the Town of Rosetown and did bookkeeping for the Wheatbelt Centennial Lodge on weekends. Although Bob and Urla had known each other through high school it took a chance meeting on the Main Street of Milden for them to start dating. Six months later, they were engaged in December of 1967, their centennial project! They were married on August 3, 1968 in Sovereign United Church, Sovereign, Sask.

Bob took the University of Saskatchewan Urban Administrative Course by correspondence. In 1971, he accepted the Town Administrator position with the Town of Wilkie. After two years, August, 1973, Bob and Urla decided it was time for a change and instead of New York they moved to Biggar where he held the Town Administrator position for 37 years, in total 43 years in municipal administration!

His many councillors and staff kept him busy and he was very proud of “his” Town. He worked every evening and most Saturdays over the years because something always had to be done. Bob enjoyed his work right to his retirement and was very conscientious to do an excellent job to perfection. He enjoyed the public, staff and many government officials and colleagues. He was the problem solver at work and at home. His accomplishments on behalf of the town are many and acknowledged by his colleagues. His sense of humour always came out in his toasts to brides/ grooms, colleagues, eulogies, conventions, and parties. He always had a good story researched or joke or was making up silly rhymes. The best time we all remember was when he roasted each person in attendance at his Town of Biggar retirement. So many good memories to pick on.

In 1981 he was elected as President of the Urban Administrators Association of Saskatchewan serving for one year and remained as director for many years. During his year as President, Town Administration was recognized by legislation as a profession.

Bob and Urla were blessed with two daughters, Raylene in 1974 and Melanie in 1977 to complete their little family. Later the family grew to two sons-in-law and six grandsons, and he was always interested and proud of all their accomplishments and interests.

Bob was a charter member of the Biggar Kinsmen Club and made many lasting friendships. He even worked at the first TeleMiracle and many other fundraisers and community enhancements with the club. Bob loved antique cars in every shape and form, never missing a Draggins

ARDYTH WENDY WILSON

JUNE 8, 1952 - JULY 12, 2023

Ardyth Wendy Wilson passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by family.

Ardyth lived a beautifully chaotic life, full of friends, fellowship, love and travel. Ardyth had a number of successful careers, but her compassion and heart for helping others led her to founding Leipzig Serenity Retreat where she helped hundreds of people heal from addiction.

Ardyth shared her life with many people. She was known for being a gypsy and made her home in many communities. Ardyth will be remembered for being passionate, adventurous, committed, headstrong, determined, and ambitious. Her love of her family was evident, and towards her end, she was proud that her two daughters took over her life’s work of helping others by running Prairie Sky Recovery Centre.

She is predeceased by her parents and siblings and is survived by her two daughters, their husbands, her many beautiful grandchildren and her first husband, Larry.

A celebration of life for Ardyth will be held on the grounds of Prairie Sky Recovery Centre on July 29, 2023 at 2:00PM. All are welcome. Arrangements entrusted to Gerein Funeral Service.

Rod and Custom Car Show. And when travelling, car museums were always on the agenda. Everything he did with pride and made sure things were in good running order, whether cars, lawn mowers or rototiller, ask the girls they worked on them too!

Bob enjoyed travelling with family and spent time golfing, fishing, and boating at Aquadeo Beach and then to the daughters’ homes became the norm for holidays.

Following retirement he had so many projects to do and places he wished to go but was unable to do because of his several health issues.

Bob is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Urla; daughters, Raylene (Brad) Marshall and Melanie (Carey) Tatton; six grandsons, Nathan, Connor, Dylan, and Nash Marshall, and Josh and Cole Tatton; brother, Jim (Vicky) Tyler; sisters, Lynn (Dave) Park, and Fay Jiricka (Randy McDonald); aunt, Mary Parker; sisterin-law, Myrna (Al) Muir; and nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family; and many friends and colleagues.

He was predeceased by his parents, Frederick and Marian Tyler; brother Lloyd; infant sister, Bonnie Louise; niece, Diana Tyler; grandparents, Herbert and Marion Tyler, and Marian Thompson; parents-in-law, Russell and Ada Webb; aunts, uncles and cousins.

Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. from Biggar United Church with Dale Worrall officiating; Scripture readers were Joy McFarlane-Burton and Kathy Sarvas; Eulogists were sons-in-law, Brad Marshall and Carey Tatton; Urn Bearers were his six grandsons, Nathan, Connor, Dylan, Nash, Josh and Cole; trumpet solo by Gordon Laycock, “Hallelujah”, music by Biggar United Church Joy Singers “Take My Hand”, and Doreen Dubreuil organist/pianist with lunch following at Biggar Community Hall.

Inturnment will be in Biggar Memorial Gardens Cemetery at a later date. Memorial tributes in memory of Bob may be gratefully accepted to the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan, 301 - 2550 - 12th Ave., Regina, SK S4P 3X1; Biggar United Church, P.O. Box 1259, Biggar SK S0K 0M0; Kinsmen TeleMiracle, 2217C Hanselman Court, Saskatoon, SK S7L 6A8 Eternal Memories Funeral Service and Crematorium, North Battleford, Sask. were in charge of arrangements.

The family of Bob Tyler would like to express their thanks and gratitude for all the kindnesses, visits, food, flowers, phone calls, stories, oh the stories! hugs, accolades from friends, relatives and past colleagues, support and prayers during this hard time. Thank you for the many monetary tributes in Bob’s memory to TeleMiracle, Biggar United Church and Alzheimer’s Society. We would have loved to visit with each and everyone that attended his Celebration of Life. He would have sooo! enjoyed the gathering. Please know that you are appreciated.

Sincerely and God Bless, Urla; Raylene, Brad, Nathan, Connor, Dylan and Nash Marshall; Melanie, Carey, Josh and Cole Tatton

A Weekly Day to Grow in Holiness

In the Pentateuch, the first five Books of Jewish Scripture, there are a number of occasions in which God tells the Jewish people to ‘keep certain days holy’ due to the special events that happened in their past, on those days They believe that the Lord established five holy times of the year when all of Israel is to make a special effort to be holy and draw closer to him. These times are; on the Sabbath; at the Feast of the Unleavened Bread (our Passover); at the Feast of Weeks (our Pentecost); on the Day of Atonement; and at the Feast of the Tabernacles. This belief in the fact that the Lord asks us to celebrate holidays throughout the year, has been continued in the Church, and we should use these days, not as holidays, but as holy days.

This proper way of celebrating Holy Days, is one of the things that seems to have been lost by practitioners of the faith in recent years. Christmas and Easter have become days of excess eating, and other worldly traditions; days of special celebration are only remembered by a few, and the remembrance of memorials for particular Saints is all but forgotten. But most troubling of all is the weekly celebration of the Lord’s day which has become for many, nothing but a day off

from work, or a day to get extra work done.

The Jewish Sabbath that Jesus spoke of, is the Saturday of each week when they keep Holy that day. Most Christian Churches, on the other hand, celebrate on Sundays; the Lord’s day, commemorating the resurrection, the greatest day in Christian history. About the year 110, Saint Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch and disciple of the Apostle John, proclaimed: “Let every friend of Christ keep the Lord’s Day as a festival, the resurrection-day, the queen and chief of all the days,” and so the Lord’s day has become the day Christians are called to live holier lives, and grow closer to God. While we follow our own tradition of the Lord’s Day, rather than the Sabbath, we should follow the Jewish ideas aimed at using such days to grow in holiness.

May God Bless you and keep you safe.

Fr. Edward Gibney

Monarch Multiple 4H Club News

why they place the class the way they did.

Results in the Judging

Junior 1st – tie between Chloe dehr and Charlee Wolfe with the tiebreaker going to Chloe

Intermediate 1st- Katie

Kolenosky

Senior 1st- Kolby Haynes

Cloverbud 1st- Adeline Zidkovich

Senior- Kolby Haynes

Cloverbud – 1st(tie )

Adeline Zidkovich & Georgia Sagon

Showmanship

Junior 1st- Chloe Dehr

Intermediate 1st- Katie Kolenosky

Senior 1st- Kolby Haynes

Jim Reiter, MLA

Rosetown-Elrose Constituency

215 Main Street, Rosetown

Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 5:00

Tel: 306-882-4105

Fax: 306-882-4108

Toll free; 1-855-762-2233

E-mail: jimreitermla@sasktel.net

Box 278, Rosetown SK S0L 2V0

Please call with questions or concerns

The Monarch 4H Club has been very busy lately with Achievement Days and Regional Shows. Lets start with the Beef project news.

June 4 was the Beef Achievement Day , held in Perdue this year at the fairgrounds. Judge for the day was Katie Serhienko and Leah Libke was doing the Judging demo and judging the cards and she also acted

as ring steward for the afternoon. The kids had been busy working with their cattle and today was the day to bring them to town to show them off. The afternoon started out with judging. Judging is an important part of 4H-, teaches the kids on what to look for in their animal so they know if they are picking out a good one or not. They also have to explain their reasons on

After the judging class was complete we moved into grooming and Showmanship. They are judged on how they fit their animal for showing and then how they present their animal to the judge.

Results:

Grooming

Junior 1st- Dallas McA-

voy

Intermediate 1st- Davin Dehr

Then it was time for the female show- Heifer class, followed by Cow Calf pair class.

Results

Heifer Class

1st- Kolby Haynes

Cow / Calf pair class

1st- Kolby Haynes

Last classes of the day were the Steer Classes. Home grown Steer

1st- Jace McAvoy

Grand Champion Steer

1st- Jase Kolenosky

A couple other aspects of the 4H Achievement Days to complete your year is to complete your Record Book and to write your 4H questionnaires.

Results for the Record Book

Junior 1st- Reid Wolfe

Intermediate 1st- Christopher Bomok

Senior-1st- Kolby Haynes

The day ended with a wonderful potluck supper that had way more food then we ever needed but it always is such a great meal when this beef project gets together!!

Jim Reiter, MLA

Rosetown-Elrose Constituency

215 Main Street, Rosetown

Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 5:00

Tel: 306-882-4105

Fax: 306-882-4108

Toll free; 1-855-762-2233

E-mail: jimreitermla@sasktel.net

Box 278, Rosetown SK S0L 2V0

Please call with questions or concerns

Randy Weekes, MLA

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

Open Mon-Fri 9am-12pm & 1-4pm

Toll Free: 1-877-948-4880

Phone: 1-306-948-4880

Fax: 1-306-948-4882

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Open Mon-Fri 9am-12pm & 1-4pm

Lending Specialist

If you enjoy administrative work and are looking to start a career in lending, we would like to meet with you! Biggar & District Credit Union requires a Lending Specialist to assist our Ag/Commercial Account Managers with all facets of loan documentation preparation and processing. You will work with -

commerce. The successful candidate must possess strong teamwork and people skills, attention to detail, and be able to deal well with change. A solid

In June our campaign raised $607.50 for the Perdue Fire Department

Casual for a Cause

Casual for a Cause campaign. months

We offer a competitive compensation structure, 8% matched superannuation, You would work with a committed team in a challenging, rewarding, and fun environment. Our workplace offers opportunities for advancement, allcooperative system, and ongoing personal and professional development.

If you want to be part of our team, please submit your resume by: Thursday, August 3, 2023, to: humanresources@biggarcu.ca.

Or mail to: Biggar & District Credit Union BIGGAR, SK S0K 0M0

LR: Cherie Lilley (Biggar & District Credit Union) , Miles Gray, Dean Williams,