Webpaper 50

Vol. 104 No. 50

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Box 40, 102 3rd Ave West, Biggar, Saskatchewan S0K 0M0

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CN nixes service in Biggar A

huge part of Biggar’s history came to an end last week as CN Rail made the announcement that they will pull their operations

out of town.

The crew change location on the Wainwright to Melville corridor, will no longer be part of the CN Rail main line service. The revised operating plan, effective December 6, will see a close to operations in Biggar, changing it to

a “run through terminal”.

The 212 employees based out of Biggar will now be using Saskatoon as their station. One hundred and sixty-seven CN employees currently call Saskatoon home.

CN officials said that a few employees will still be

needed at the Biggar station to serve local customers.

Mandatory crew rest and changes will take place in Saskatoon, leaving Biggar residents up in the air as to its future, the financial repercussions still to be felt in the coming months

and years. The current bunkhouse in Biggar is closed, an empty reminder of the community’s rail history.

No workers lost their jobs in CN’s “revised operating plan”, a verdict that has been an ongoing concern

for many, many years.

The number of employees that spent money in the community, lived in the community, volunteered in the community, will be a very hard pill to swallow with CN’s latest business decision.

Government focused on meeting the challenges of growth during fall session L a s t T h u r s d a y w a s in infrastructure projects the final day of the fall like hospitals, schools and legislative session which highways,” Wall said. “Still, focused on meeting the there is more to be done challenges of a growing and we have to look for province, according to ways to ensure taxpayers’ dollars are going further Premier Brad Wall. “ S a s k a t c h e w a n h a s by exploring new and g r o w n b y m o r e t h a n innovative approaches to 100,000 people in just building these kinds of six years,” Wall said, projects.

“That’s why this fall, our December 5. “That creates many new opportunities government announced and it also creates many that nine new joint-use n e w c h a l l e n g e s. O u r schools will be built using government is working an innovative P3 bundling hard to meet the challenges approach.”

Wall said Saskatchewan’s of a growing province.”

Wall said two of the economy remains on track biggest challenges are and is more diversified building infrastructure than ever.

“Saskatchewan will set a and addressing the labour new record for employment shortage.

“Over the past six years, growth in 2013 despite the our government has more fact there are actually than doubled investment … see Govt, cont. on pg 18

A ‘Glee’-ful celebration . . . The St. Gabriel School Glee Club sings at the top of their lungs, Friday at the Biggar New Horizons. The singers were the entertaining the Superannuated Teachers group who were holding

their annual holiday feast. With the decorated tree, the kids had everyone in the Christmas mood. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

PML comes up big for the new long-term care home

by Brigitte Burgoyne, Cargill Limited Despite the cold December winds and blowing snow, the Prairie Malt team trekked out to pay their friends in town a visit last Tuesday, December 3.

They didn’t show up empty handed.

The reason for visiting the town was to present the “Friends of the Lodge Committee”, now the Biggar and District Health S e r v i c e s Fo u n d a t i o n , with the second $25,000 instalment of Cargill’s contribution to Biggar’s new long-term care centre.

Cargill’s total donation of $50,000 will go towards equipping the centre’s kitchen with industrial grade equipment that will not only serve as the main

food preparation area for the centre, but also as the regional hub for Meals on Wheels.

Representing PML at the cheque presentation were Prairie Malt employees, as well as Cargill leadership Doug Eden; president of Cargill’s malting business based out of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Joining him were Jerome Woynarski, plant manager of the Prairie Malt facility, Shantell Redlick, chair of PML’s Cargill Cares Committee and Biggar and District Health Services Foundation supporter Cory Angelopoulos, a PML plant employee and executive of the local Union, UNIFOR, that represents approximately 50 per cent of PML’s employee base. They also donated a

generous $10,000 to the centre earlier this year.

Present from the Biggar and District Health Services Foundation was Jo Angelopoulos and Gene Motruk.

Cargill is dedicated to helping its communities thrive, and is committed to becoming the global leader in nourishing people. They believe that change starts within their own communities where they live and work. By supporting Biggar’ longterm care centre, they are helping to provide access to safe a nutritious food to those in need.

Prairie Malt Limited has been a Cargill business since 1998. Some of the best barley in the world is grown within a 100 kilometre radius of this

malt house. The company produces and supplies high quality Canadian malt for

domestic and international beer brewing customers.

T w o m a j o r Ja p a n e s e

breweries named Prairie Malt top worldwide malt supplier in 2013.

Cory Angelopoulos, Shantell Redlick, Doug Eden, Jo Angelopoulos, Eugene Motruk, Jerome Woynarski. (Submitted Photo)

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Joy of song, faith and spirit came to the Biggar Community Hall, December 6, as the annual Associated Gospel Christmas Banquet was, once again, a resounding success.

Featuring the inspiring Freedom Singers (above picture, left to right:

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Simon Ivascu, Tim Parton, Steven Ivascu, people were treated to a wonderful concert. Great food and fellowship, gifts, draws, a chance to purchase Freedom Singers’ music

and books, were all part of an evening that - cold and blustery as the Prairies can be - warmed the soul as we move to the (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam) birth of Christ.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Saskatchewan’s record crop exceeds 2020 Growth Plan target Producers harvest a record 38.4 million tonnes Saskatchewan producers have harvested the largest crop in the province’s history and surpassed the 2020 target set out in the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth.

The latest estimates from Statistics Canada indicate Saskatchewan’s 2013 crop is 38.4 million tonnes, exceeding the Growth Plan goal to increase crop production to 36.6 million tonnes by 2020.

“Saskatchewan producers deserve credit for the effort and dedication that went into this record-breaking crop,” Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart said, December 4. “We set an ambitious goal for crop production and our producers proved they were up to the challenge. A harvest of this size is not possible without the hard work of everyone involved in the agriculture industry and I commend them for this significant accomplishment.”

The 2013 crop is 40 per cent above 2012 production and 48 per cent above the 10 year average.

Saskatchewan’s canola crop is estimated to be the largest on record at 8.9 million tonnes, an increase of 37.5 per cent over 2012. Production levels for wheat, canola, peas, lentils, chickpeas,

oats and flax are all estimated to be above the 10 year average.

“There are many variables that go into producing a successful crop with weather being one of the most important,” Stewart said.

“However, the innovation of our producers and the research capacity in Saskatchewan will ensure our province will continue to be a world leader in agriculture production.”

Creaky old bones basketball . . . Biggar Central School teacher, TJ Wright, busts around Senior Blazer Cassandra Santiago, Monday, as the teachers, coaches and staff hit the courts for an afternoon

NDP focused session on things that matter The NDP claim that the crisis in seniors care, understaffing and overcrowding in hospitals, crowded and crumbling schools and an economy that is not diverse enough were the focus of the legislature this fall.

“Health care and education are getting worse under this government, and that has to stop,” said NDP Leader Cam Broten, December 5.

“Especially in today’s strong economy, I don’t accept the government’s excuses, and Saskatchewan people tell me they don’t either.

They don’t need excuses – they need better health care and decent, dignified seniors care. They need schools with reasonable

classroom sizes for their kids, and enough teachers and educational assistants. They need a long-term plan to replace this government’s record of moving from crisis to crisis.”

Throughout the session, Broten further exposed unacceptable conditions in seniors care homes caused by understaffing.

Families continue to describe seniors left to soil themselves instead of being taken to the bathroom, seniors not being given the time or help to eat and residents getting less than one bath per week, among other concerns.

Broten pushed for minimum staffing ratios for each level of care, minimum standards for the number of baths and

Home biz fair pulls off success despite weather . . . The Biggar Community Hall featured local home-based business people, December 7 for the Biggar Home Business Trade Fair. With the withering cold temperatures outside, the fair still did a pretty brisk business as shoppers ready for the holiday season. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

contest for bragging rites. The ol’ bones - wily vets, one and all - pulled off the victory, 53-36, earning the ibuprofen and A535. Possible grudge match in the making? (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

meals residents should be offered, as well as a residents bill of rights for seniors in care, similar to other provinces. Instead, the government quietly removed a requirement for sufficient staffing and minimum hours of care for seniors care homes.

The government has temporarily shut down, reduced services or closed emergency rooms in nearly two dozen hospitals.

Regina’s Pasqua hospital could be next, with no long-term plan in place to keep the emergency room open 24 hours-a-day beyond Dec. 15.

Throughout the session, Broten held the government to account on systemic shortstaffing that is reducing services and hurting the quality of care and safety of patients.

Saskatchewan’s economy is not diverse enough, Broten added, because it’s too reliant on non-renewable resources and the economic activity those resources generate.

“I remain optimistic about the future of all our province’s natural resources,” said Broten.

“But when we hear about soft potash prices affecting the province’s bottom line, and hundreds of layoffs in the potash industry, those things are further evidence that it’s not in Saskatchewan’s best interests to put all our eggs in the nonrenewable resource

basket. I want more eggs, and more baskets.”

Broten said the government should recognize that it’s passing up an incredible opportunity to use today’s economy to build long-term stability and prosperity by fostering growth in new and diverse industries like technology, research and development and film and television.

Broten said he was very proud of the good work

and dedication of the NDP MLAs throughout the fall session – but he said they have no plans to slow down.

“Saskatchewan families have serious concerns about the health care they count on, and the care of their parents, grandmas and grandpas,” Broten concluded. “But, the government has been largely dismissive of those concerns, and that’s simply not good enough.”

GAS PRICES AT THE PUMP PUMP… …

Wednesday, DECEMBER 11, 11:00 a.m. (stations randomly selected)

Biggar .............................................115.9¢/L Duperow Cardlock .........................115.9¢/L Perdue… .........................................115.9¢/L Landis… .........................................115.9¢/L Rosetown… ....................................115.9¢/L North Battleford….........................115.9¢/L Unity...............................................115.4¢/L Saskatoon .......................................113.9¢/L Humboldt .......................................115.9¢/L Lloydminster ..................................108.9¢/L Kindersley ......................................115.9¢/L Swift Current .................................117.9¢/L

Lottery Numbers

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Opinions ........................................................... 4 Agriculture ...................................................... 8 ‘CHRISTMAS’ Shopping Guide............... 11 - 15 Classifieds ................................................16 - 17 Business & Professional Directories ........18 - 20 ‘Shop the Battlefords’ Guide ....................22 - 23

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Taxpayers, students bailout university pension

by Colin Craig, Saskatchewan Taxpayers Federation Not only are taxpayers bailing out the latest struggling government employee pension plan in Saskatchewan, university students also get to pitch in this time.

Pensions can be complicated, so here’s a plain English description of what’s going on at the University of Regina and why it’s not fair for taxpayers and students.

Back in 2006, University of Regina employees enrolled in the non-academic pension plan (support staff, not professors) put in 5.15 per cent of their salary into the university’s staff pension plan.

If an employee at the university had earnings of $38,835, they would put in $2,000 per year into the plan.

However, at the same time the University of Regina would match employee contributions. In other words, students, through their tuition fees, and taxpayers through taxes provided to the university from the provincial government, would also put in $2,000.

Considering 75 per cent of Saskatchewan taxpayers working outside government don’t have a workplace pension plan, and have no one matching their retirement savings contributions, you can see how sweet a deal that is for the employee. Not to mention most students would some day graduate and not have the same benefit themselves.

But it gets better . . . or employees that is, not students and taxpayers.

The type of pension plan non-academic employees enjoy actually guarantees them payouts for the rest of their life, no matter how long they live. So while people in the private sector without pensions have to worry about what could happen to their RRSPs when an economic slowdown takes a bite out of their savings, the university employees in the non-academic plan don’t have the same worry.

This obviously requires people managing the University of Regina’s plan to make a whole bunch of impossible guesses – how long will employees live? What will happen with the economy over the next forty years? What will happen with interest rates? Inflation?

Not surprisingly the plan, like so many others built this way, hasn’t worked out and needs more money. As of 2008, the contribution rate went up to 6.5 per cent of their earnings. The rate increased again in 2010 to 7.75 per cent and is going up to 8.75 per cent as of January 1, 2014.

It may not seem like a big increase, but consider how it plays out money-wise. Hiking contribution rates to 8.75 per cent, means that taxpayers and students will no longer put in $2,000 like they did for an employee with earnings of $38,835 in 2008, they would now put in about $3,398. That’s a 69.9 per cent increase in terms of the amount put in. Multiply that by hundreds or thousands of employees and the money really starts to add up.

So what needs to change? The University of

Regina needs to do something Saskatchewan’s NDP did with most government employees back in the late 1970s. All new employees should be put in a new, less costly type of pension plan – one that doesn’t require constant rate increases and protects taxpayers from surprise shortfalls. It’s called a defined contribution plan.

It may not be as golden as the current plan, but even with matched contributions of 5.15 per cent it would still be significantly better than most people enjoy.

One thing is for certain, the university needs a lesson in fairness. What’s going on now just isn’t fair for taxpayers or students.

Mulcair’s overheated rhetoric distorts Canada’s environmental record

by Kenneth Green and Joel Wood, The Fraser Institute Distributed by Troy Media, www.troymedia.com ‘In the U.S. people know how to read,’?Mulcair said.

‘They know that Canada is the only country that has withdrawn from Kyoto.

They know that the Conservatives can’t possibly meet their Copenhagen targets (on greenhouse gas emissions) precisely because of the oil sands.

They have to stop playing people for fools.’?

When asked why he won’t give a simple ‘yes’? or ‘no’? on whether he backs Keystone XL, Mulcair said: ‘I don’t think we are applying the basic rules of sustainable development in Canada right now, we’ve been clear about that.’? The Conservative government ‘is not enforcing our own federal legislation, we’re not protecting the groundwater, we’re not protecting the eco-systems, we’re not protecting first nations’

health,’? he added.’?

According to an article in the Toronto Globe and Mail, ‘He criticized Stephen Harper’s Conservative government and said its willingness to gut Canadian law and flout international treaties must be reversed. Mr. Harper has created a Canada that is ‘unrecognizable to a lot of the countries we have worked with closely over the decades and it’s no longer recognizable to ourselves’?.

Alas, Mulcair seems to have a rather poor grasp of the facts regarding the environment. First, Canada is not the only country to turn its back on the Kyoto Protocol as Russia and Japan have refused to commit to another round of emission reduction targets and the U.S. never ratified the protocol to begin with.

But more importantly, contrary to Mulcair’s assertions, environmental quality in Canada has been

improving for decades in almost every meaningful category.

As documented in the study Canadian Environmental indicators – Air Quality, in most instances Canadians currently experience significantly better air quality than at any other time since continuous monitoring of air quality began in the 1970s. Concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide, for instance, have decreased sharply in the vast majority of locations in Canada over the past 30 years. The decrease is especially apparent in our major urban centers. Concentrations of carbon monoxide, a potent toxic emission, has decreased everywhere in Canada and since the mid-1990s there have been no exceedances of the strictest provincial air quality objective at any of the 156 monitoring locations across the

country.

Most notably, concentrations of two of the air pollutants of greatest concern – ground-level ozone and ultrafine particulate matter – have generally decreased across Canada since 2000. Air quality in Canada has improved and is improving.

And it’s not simply air quality that has improved.

As previous reports have documented, water quality in Canada is generally quite good, and forests are not harvested beyond levels that are considered environmental protective.

More and more waste water is subject to high levels of treatment before being released to the environment, more solid waste is being diverted to recycling, soil quality has improved, and the size of protected areas has increased over recent decades. The current federal government, demonized

by Mulcair as environ-

mental laggards, has implemented Canada’s first nation-wide regulations on treated and untreated wastewater, Canada’s largest source of water pollution.

We would never suggest that Canada is free of environmental challenges.

Canada is a natural resource powerhouse that faces unique environmental challenges. And as the world of energy production is changing quickly with regard to things like shale gas and oil sands production, it is certainly prudent to be alert to the potential for environmental harms.

But an objective view of Canada’s environmental trends hardly justifies the kind of catastrophic environmental destruction that Mulcair would have the world believe Canada is enduring. And to so badly distort Canada’s record, particularly while travelling abroad, is unseemly in the Leader of the Op-

position, who, in theory at least, serves as the ‘government in waiting.’?

There is still progress to be made in protecting Canada’s environment, but hysterical pronouncements of imminent environmental Armageddon do not contribute much to the process of deriving environmental policy that balances environmental protection with economic growth. Striking that balance based on sober facts and sound judgment should be the goal of Canada’s government, both those currently in power, and those who would like to be.

Kenneth P. Green is Senior Director, Energy and Natural Resources at the Fraser Institute. Joel Wood is the Senior Research Economist in the Fraser Institute’s Centre for Environmental Studies. Follow them on Twitter: @KennethPGreen & @JoelWWood.

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, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, 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, DECEMBER 12, 2013

On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me Twelve drummers drumming, Eleven pipers piping, Ten lords a-leaping, Nine ladies dancing, Eight maids a-milking, Seven swans a-swimming, Six geese a-laying, Five golden rings, Four calling birds, Three French hens, Two turtle doves, And a partridge in a pear tree!

This is what the “true love” sent the very last day but The 12 Days of Christmas is a cumulative song starting with the partridge in a pear tree on the first day and building up to the last day. The song was first published in England in 1780.

The 12 days refer to the 12 days of Christmas which start on Christmas Day and end on the Feast of the Epiphany (January 6).

It was thought the song

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

started as a children’s game with the leader saying a verse and each player repeated the verse and added another until someone make a mistake at which time a penalty was imposed.

The song became popular and over time many versions have existed. The early versions the “true love sent to me” the gifts. In subsequent versions the wording was changed to the “true love gave to me”. The original version has “four colly

50 years ago in our town

by Delta Day Cruickshank, Executive Director Seems there was a Friday the 13th in December in 1963 too!

On that date the Biggar School staff, plus their husbands and wives, held their annual Christmas party.

All enjoyed a turkey dinner in the basement of the United Church and then the party moved over to the Nova Wood Auditorium.

At the auditorium, with Mr. Bob Lund leading, they sang songs and played lively games.

The ladies on the lunch committee served pie and coffee, and Santa came with presents!

Carol Festival sets new record despite blizzard The Biggar Composite School was packed December 10 and 11 in 1963. The concert was over two nights, but despite the howling blizzard on the second night, a record amount of money was collected over both nights. The

birds” which has since morphed into “four calling birds”. “Five gold rings” became “five golden rings” and sometimes the last four days are reordered (ladies and lords on day nine and ten) and musicians on days 11 and 12.

For the musicians amongst us the time signature of the song is not constant. The introductory verses are made up of two 4/4 bars which most of the other lines are one 3/4 bar and the five golden rings is again a different meter.

There is also some significance attached to the gifts. Five golden rings is thought to refer to the Five Books of the Old Testament which

gives the history of man’s fall from grace.

Six geese-a-laying is a reference to the six days of creation; seven swans a-swimming refers to the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit; eight maids a milking refers to the Eight Beatitudes; 10 Lords a-leaping refers to the 10 Commandments; 11 pipers piping is the 11 apostles.

There have been many versions of this song starting with the traditional version which was sung by Burl Ives in 1951. Perry Como recorded many Christmas albums but his 1953 version varied the lyrics - 11 lords a leaping, 10 ladies dancing, 9 pipers piping. Alvin and the

Chipmunks took a stab at the song in their 1963 album and the Muppets also produced a version of their own where different muppets took on different roles. Or, for those who are a little more adventuresome there is always the 12 Days of Redneck Christmas.

On a very different note, for app fans, Apple launched its own version of 12 Days of Christmas.

From December 26 to January 8 iTune users are able to download a selection of songs, music videos, apps, books and TV episodes for free. The app can be downloaded for free onto iPads, iPhones or your computer.

The Biggar and District Daycare would like to thank the following sponsors who made our “Kids Corner” at the Festival of Lights a successful fundraiser…

• • • • • • •

Fifty years ago the Carol Festival audience packed the Biggar Composite School despite a blizzard on one of the nights. (Photo courtesy of the Biggar Museum) money collected went to- snow, blowing into hard wards the Spring Music packed drifts. The temFestival competition. perature was below zero!

The blizzard made trav- (That would have been el almost impossible; in Fahrenheit, about -18 winds were 40 miles per Celsius, seems balmy hour (65 kph), and there compared to the -33°C was about three inch- we have endured the es (7.6 centimetres) of past week).

… See Ryan the Hairstylist for your New Year’s Eve or Christmas party up or down style and receive a FREE gift, valued at $20.

Call Ryan @ 306-948-3775 for appointments @

Lynda’s Hair Design, 403 Main Street, Biggar

NOTICE OF CALL FOR NOMINATIONS (Municipal By-election Election) Village of Landis PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that nominations of candidates for the ofÀce(s) of:

Councillor: Village of Landis Number to be Elected: One will be received by the undersigned on the 8th day of January, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Village OfÀce and during regular business hours on December 3, 2013 to January 7, 2014, at Village of Landis OfÀce.

Nomination forms may be obtained at the following location: Village of Landis OfÀce Princess Street Dated this 28th day of November, 2013.

Sandra Beckett, Returning OfÀce

Royal Canadian Legion AGI Envirotank Shop Easy Foods DMH Electric Silhouette Ladies Wear Super A Foods Western Sales

• • • •

Pharmasave de Moissac Jewellers Sarah Peiffer Photography Biggar & Landis Insurance Services • Biggar & District Credit Union

13122DS00

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

by Bob Mason

No Spikka da Ingils Yours Truly found a fairly philosophical statement in a magazine he was reading the other day: “Never laugh at a person who doesn’t pronounce their English very well – for it proves that (unlike you!) they speak another language!”

Some of these things that Y.T. writes about are almost like another language! Comprende?

It kind of bothers me a bit when Y.T. mentions stuff like this! And yet, in a way, he feels he should mark down some of them before we forget them entirely! We all know that if our young people want to, a lot of farm-like contraptions can be found in

most museums. But we also know that if we don’t care, they won’t care either! So here goes!

When we were just inquisitive kids, it was always a big thrill to explore the old machinery stored along our backyard fence, and find some of the things that our ancestors had used.

Of course, some of that stuff we do see being used now and then, even today. But many of those old unused implements really caught our attention.

I don’t know who made them or sold them, but in one of those junk piles was a six-foot wide iron frame with a few movable paddle-like blades on it,

and try as we might (as youngsters) we couldn’t figure out whatever it had been used for!

When we asked Dad he kind of smiled.

“Oh that,” he finally said, “is what they called a ‘Lister’, and was made to use on sloping ground to make small pockets in it so the rain wouldn’t wash it off! We stopped using that thing when the rain stopped coming!”

He smiled again. Dad always smiled when he thought of things like that!

We looked up ‘Lister’ in the big school dictionary, where it was discovered as a left and right mouldboard plow used to trench for irrigation, but that old piece of iron sure didn’t look like a plow to us!

There must have been more than one kind of ‘Lister’, eh?

As boys in the 1920’s and 1930’s we had often driven five horses pulling Dad’s two furrowed Gang Plow, but in that fencerow of abandoned machinery

we found an old, wheeled, single furrowed one!

Of course Dad came to our help again!

“That is our old Sulky plough,” he said. “We got that one brand new, when we got tired of walking behind the other one!”

He almost smiled again before he went on!

“Those old walking plows sure built a lot of muscle in your legs,” he mused, “So we decided to develop some in our heads instead!”

Dad explained that he had “broken” most of his homestead quarters with that one-furrowed “Sulky”, and that it had sure earned its resting place along that fence!

We didn’t see a lot of mechanical power around the farm when we were kids. Everything seemed to be built for horses to pull. And horses were a big part of our young lives (mebbe we were a big part of of theirs, too, eh?) because besides driving them on every menial job, we fed them, groomed and watered them as a valued part of our lives.

Parts of horses and harness became very familiar to us: martingales, collars, breast straps, belly banels, britching spavins, sweeny and cholic – almost as familiar then as much of that

jargon is confusing to young people now!

Bridles, halters, nose guards and traces we knew, but one summer something else began to bother us!

Just across the river lived Mr. Dewinton, an old farmer whose house and stables were down near the water, while the land he farmed was at the top of the river hills.

Many early mornings we saw him drive his teams up that steep slope, but they never came down until quitting time! How did they get fed at dinner? His horses were always parked at the top of the hills and seemed to have big heads – we wondered why!

Of course we asked Dad, who laughed.

“Mr. Dewinton,” said Dad, “has always left his horses at the top of that steep hill at noon, and he feeds them up there with nose bags.”

Nose bags, he told us, were just that, a small bag with some feed in it, hung over a horses head for it to munch on at meal time. And making the horses heads look bigger to us! When you hear an old farmer say “Let’s go and put on the feed bag,” he must be hungry, eh?

In this day of G.P.S. (Global Positioning System) we sure can’t blame

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a young person for not knowing what a “strikeout” was – almost like a baseball term, eh?

Lots of old farmers, and Dad was no exception, would set up a row of stakes for a driver to follow while ploughing the first round of a field, sometimes we made two or three of them and finished up the “Lands” between with “How arounds” and “Gee arounds”.

Get that rural accent in there, eh?

The only people who ever saw our nice neat “back of beyond” fields were ourselves, and I often wonder if those seemingly unnecessary strikeouts influenced the rest of our lives.

The machine in that fencerow that always got the most of our young attention though, was one of Dad’s old “Binders”, reaper if you like!

We examined it over many, many times trying to figure out how come all those gears, chains, rollers, packers, bull wheels, bill hooks, and canvases ever produced those nice round sheaves that Dad always left in a row for his sons to stack.

Now, they tell me that on those big combines you just push a button instead of hollering at the lead team! I met a young fellow at a threshing demonstration.

“What do they use those three pointed forks for?” he asked.

“That,” said Y.T. knowingly, “is a pitchfork, and was often used to pitch bundles into the feeder!”

“What are ‘bundles’,” he asked again, “and what was the feeder you are talking about?”

I guess Y.T. is one of those ‘two-language’ guys, eh?

Tuesday the 17th

at 5:00 p.m. is the

BIGGAR HOLIDAY HOURS

~ CLOSED ~ December 21 until January 5 OPEN January 6, 2014 We do expect the week of January 6 to 10 to be extremely busy. Please be prepared for longer line ups and waiting time.

Best wishes for a Safe Holiday Season!

deadline

for ads and classiÀeds for the

Àrst issue of January

WATCH for Doreen’s Discount Day at

Leslie’s Drugstore Biggar • 948-3397

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

Diamond Lodge News

by Karen Kammer Two weeks left until Christmas if you didn’t know about that.

Everybody around has been in the Christmas spirit listening to carols, putting up decorations or just talking about the good old days.

At Diamond Lodge this past week we were really busy with different activities.

Monday was exercises and

Wheel of Fortune. Then that evening some of the staff came to the Lodge and helped the residents decorate the Christmas tree in the Activity Room. It looks breath taking.

Tuesday we caught up on what is happening around the world in our weekly Current Events. Beat the Dice was on at 2:30.

Wednesday was our big birthday party night. There

were ¿ve birthdays and one anniversary. Bill Haffermehl did the entertaining and Pinwherry Ladies provided us with an over the top lunch.

Many dancers were on the dance Àoor.

Thursday was exercises and bingo.

Friday was Breakfast Club and sing along in the afternoon.

Saturday was Home Sweet Home Bingo. The

Saturday movie was the “Christmas Lodge”. Santa also made a stop by the Lodge which brightened up a lot of residents faces.

Sunday was 1-1 time and Barb and Adrian de Haan came and did a wonderful church service.

We hope everyone has a good day and wish you good luck on Christmas shopping and baking.

for the week ending December 13 Club 55: M.H.S. - John Latta, 249; M.H.T. - John Latta, 519; L.H.S. - Carol Lemon, 197; L.H.T. - Carol Lemon, 510; T.H.S. - Hopefulls, 1,1082; T.H.T. - Hopefulls, 3,108; M.H.A. - John Latta, 158; L.H.A. - Carol

Lemon, 158.

Ladies League: L.H.S. - Joey Levitt, 246; L.H.T. Dorrie Laberswieler, 601; T.H.S. - Zeros, 1,095; T.H.T. - High Rollers, 3,070; L.H.A. - Dorrie Laberswieler, 190.

Mens League: M.H.S. - Dennis Notschke, 231; M.H.T. - Dennis Notschke,

591, T.H.S. - J.A.G., 758; T.H.T., W.W.F., 2,089; M.H.A. - George Bartley, 190.

Mixed League: M.H.S. Al Levitt, 233; M.H.T. - Al Levitt, 621; L.H.S. - Joey Levitt, 210; L.H.T. - Joey Levitt, 518; T.H.S. - D’J’s, 1,107; T.H.T. - D’J’s, 3,148;

M.H.A. - Al Levitt, 189; L.H.A. - Joey Levitt, 171.

Y.B.C.: Junior Girls – Dakota Anderson, 138; Junior Boys – Memphis Richards, 121; Bantam Boys – Adam Munro, 134; Bantam Girls – Jerzie Richards, 79; Bowlasaurus – Ayden Moody, 60.

Perdue Bowling results

Alley Katz Bowling scores for the week of December 2-6 Tuesday Mixed League: Men’s High Single – Gerry Devenny, 210; Men’s High Multi – Gerry Devenny, 602; Women’s High Single – Ann Lowry, 190; Women’s High Multi – Pat Phillips, 518.

New Horizons League: Men’s High Single – Glen Shockey, 235; Men’s High Multi – Glen Shockey, 581; Women’s High Single – Donna Eckart, 194; Women’s High Multi – Donna Eckart, 456.

Thursday Senior’s League: Men’s High Single – Geoff Cooke, 254; Men’s High Multi – Glen Shockey, 677; Women’s High Single – Dianna Meger, 250; Women’s High Multi – Barb Berines, 526.

Y.B.C. League, Bowlasaurus: High Score – Sawyer Heimbecker, 87.

Peewee: High Score – Maggie Genaille, 95; High Score Double – Maggie Genaille, 165.

Bantam: High Score – Jayla Boobyer, 134; High Score Triple – Jayla Boobyer, 354.

Juniors: High Score – Justin Otterson, 153; High Score Triple – Justin Otterson, 433.

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Another Museum toonie winner . . . Larry Sutherland was the winner of the Biggar Museum and Gallery’s November Toonie Draw. Larry was the lucky recipient of $105, but since receiving the cheque, decided to pay it forward, donating back to the museum, the theatre project fund, and, of course, his wife Rita! Congratulations, Larry, and thank you. (Photo for The Independent by Delta Fay Cruikshank)

Biggar Community

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Diverse populations mean more options for farmers, ranchers

by Calvin Daniels

It was only a couple of weeks ago I noted in this space how Canadian agriculture should not get too focused on canola and wheat since there are trends moving forward which should make other aspects of the industry more attractive.

One of the areas of growth I suggested we would see was in terms of domestic demand for lamb.

It was interesting to hear a recent speaker at Canola Days, part of

Grain Millers Harvest Showdown in Yorkton, note that 55 per cent of Toronto’s current population were not born in Canada.

That is a number you might have expected in the early 1800s, not two centuries later.

But it shows Canada is again opening its doors to immigration, and thousands are taking the opportunity, just as most of our own forefathers did at some point over the last couple of hundred

years.

The current wave of immigration is no longer European, but come from Asia, Africa, and South America. It is ethnically both different and more diverse than the earlier wave.

And with the diversity comes a much different palate in terms of food.

Goat and lamb both move up the list in term of favoured dining.

Farmers in Canada have always raised sheep, although in terms of genetic development the species has lagged well behind what has occurred in the beef, pork and poultry industries.

The reasons are many of course.

Sheep production has always been very much a niche enterprise and while niche markets by nature often mean higher margins, that is not generally the case with sheep.

So limited numbers, and values that are never substantially high, has meant research dollars into something like

genetic improvement is harder to attract.

That is why a recent announcement in Regina has to be looked at as positive for the sheep sector.

The Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, joined Saskatchewan lamb producers to announce a $1.4 million federal investment to develop and implement a new meat grading system.

“The computer indexing and grading protocol offers members of the newly-formed Canadian Lamb Producers Cooperative (CLPC) with realtime access to data. Anal-

ysis of this information will ultimately lead to increased farm cash receipts through improved flock genetics, better feed management practices and reduced operating costs,” noted a government release.

“This project assists Canada’s lamb industry in attracting the domestic market as well as increasing traceability, which is crucial for exporting Canadian lamb to international markets.”

Having access to grading data is an integral step to understanding what genetics are superior in terms of carcass grade.

The announcement is particularly positive for

the west, since 40 per cent of Canada’s sheep flock is located in Western Canada; 30 per cent in Ontario; 25 per cent in Quebec and five per cent in Atlantic Canada.

The release also noted exactly what I suggested in the earlier column, although growing demand is not just within Canada, noting “world-wide demand for lamb consistently outstrips supply.”

With our changing ethnic mix in Canada, the demand for lamb will only grow, and it is positive to see our federal government making an investment in helping producers be in a better position to meet the opportunities as they arise.

BCS Principal’s report

by James Walker Just before I talk about the events at the school, I just wanted to say how much my family and I are enjoying living in Biggar.

We had a great time at Biggar’s Festival of Lights a couple of weeks ago. We started with a tractor ride

around town. We then stopped for hot chocolate and hot dogs at the Biggar Museum. We also put in a few bids at the silent auction at the museum.

There are a number of great Christmas gifts and crafts available. We played bingo for more than

an hour and then went to the Majestic to see “Free Birds”. Last Friday, my son, Seamus, and I went to see “Thor: the Dark World” at the Majestic.

I think watching movies will be a weekly habit for us.

Biggar is a wonderful community and the past couple of Friday nights proved it. Now if we could only do something about -40 temperatures.

At BCS 2000, the Christmas Concert will be on December 19. I heard that the children gave a tremendous performance at Carol Festival on December 2. Many of our students have been playing in noon hour dodge ball tournaments. After school and on weekends, our basketball players and curlers have been busy. The staff played the Girls Senior Basketball Team Monday afternoon.

Since I am writing this Monday morning, I can’t tell you the result but I will be sure to include it in my letter next week.

There are really so many events happening that you should check out our December Calendar to make sure that you don’t miss anything.

Have a great week.

WATCH for Doreen’s Discount Day

at

Leslie’s Drugstore

Biggar • 948-3397

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Local author hits McNally Robinson for S’toon book launch . . . Biggar author Merle Massie, left, autographs her co-authored book with C. Stuart Houston, “36 Steps on the Road to Medicare: How Saskatchewan Led the Way” at McNally Robinson in Saskatoon, December 5. Former Premier Roy Romanow introduced the two authors who read from the tome, fielded questions, and signed many copies of the important work. (Independent Photo by Tom Larson)

NEW SALE PENDING NEW

NEW

Junior hoopsters hold home tourney . . . Tyrelle Hooper goes for the shot this past Saturday as the Biggar Central School Junior Blazers hosted their home tournament. Due to the cold weather, not all teams could make it.

The boys, however, ended up losing a very close game to the Unity Warr i o$275,000 rs 50-44 MLS (pictured here) then beating Outlook. The Junior Blazers had a good day and ended up in second place. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Duane Neufeldt

www.duaneneufeldt.com

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Singing to the heavens . . . What a treat it was to attend the Prairie Notes ‘Noel Favourites’ Extravaganza! Despite frigid temperatures a large enthusiastic audience enjoyed sounds of Christmas presented by Biggar’s own Prairie Notes and Saskatoon’s Joy of Vox. Both choirs are very similar in that they are open to anyone who loves to sing. BJ Harris, former member of the rock group Streetnix, led his 50 voice choir through two sets of original music, some of it written by their very accomplished accompanist, Penny Rosten and some arranged by BJ himself.

They ended their sets with a rollicking rendition of You’re a Mean One, Mister Grinch. Prairie Notes also offered two sets of varied carols with the help of Kathy Epp on flute and percussion, Bob Dyck on drums and Wilma Dyck, bass. Of course Peggy L’Hoir brought the accompaniments to life on the piano and keyboard while Cathy Donahue kept the choir in time. The best part of the evening was when the 75-plus voices filled the Majestic Theatre stage to capacity and sang BJ’s arrangements of Carol of the Bells And Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas; Penny Rosten’s Shakin’ Up Christmas Eve; Go Tell It!, and finally White Christmas after which the audience rose from their seats and asked for more! As the choirs made their way to the stage, Peggy and Penny kept the audience entertained with some wonderful impromptu Christmas duets. It was truly a magical night for the two choirs, who had such a good time, as well the audience who left the theatre full of the Christmas Spirit. (Submitted Photo) 2004 Jeep Cherakee Laredo, black, 157,453km, StkR4922A ...........................................................................$12,900 2004 Buick LeSabre Limited, white, 102,301km, StkC1341A..........................................................$11,500 2004 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT, black, 118,000km, StkT13579C ........................................................$14,900 2005 Chev Silverado 3/4 crew, silver, 108,000km, StkR4032A ..........................................................$19,900 2006 GMC Crew ¾ SLE, one-ton, white, 174,799, StkR5026A.......................................$25,900 SOLD 2007 Chev Impala LS, blue, 105,191 km StkR4974A.....................................................$9,950 2007 GMC Acadia FWD, brown, 88,425km, StkC1412B ................................................$13,900 2007 Chev Tahoe LT 4x4, gold, 180,000km, T14156A ...................................................$15,900 2007 GMC Yukon XL Denali, black, 154,809km, StkT13578A ......................................$24,900 2008 Ford Supercrew Lariat 4x4, white, 131,699km, StkT14123A ................................$20,900 2008 Chev Silverado ½ crew 2WD, silver, 103,081km, Stk T13104B .............................$17,900 SOLD 2008 GMC ¾ Crew SLT 4x4, black, 245,121km, T13596A ............................................$22,900 2008 GMC Acadia SLE AWD, white, 106,395km StkR4999A ........................................$19,900 2008 Chev Avalanche LTZ, gold, 142,000 km, StkR5003A..........................................$23,900 SOLD 2009 Chev Impala LS, black, 30,963km, StkR5032AA.....................................................$10,900 2009 GMC one-ton dually SLE 4x4, white, 81,000km, StkT14196A ..............................$40,900 SOLD 2009 GMC Acadia AWD, white, 157,806 km, StkT14319A..........................................$22,900 2010 GMC ½ ext 4x4 SLE, blue, 97,000km, StkT1420A ................................................$19,900 2010 Chev Malibu LT, white, 97,757km, StkT13456B ...................................................$16,900 2010 GMC Terrain SLE AWD, blue, 86,000km, StkT13484A.........................................$21,900 2010 GMC ½ crew SLT, 4x4, white, 102,608km, StkT14278A .......................................$27,900 2010 GMC ¾ Crew SLT 4x4, silver, 120,426km, T14291A ........................................ $41,900 2011 GMC Denali 1/2 crew, diamond white, 118,319km, Stk 14288A ...................... $31,900 2011 Chev Silverado ½ crew LT, 4x4, white diamond, 93,226km, StkT14210B ......... $26,900 2011 Buick Enclave CXL FWD, cocoa, 22,251km, StkT14256A................................. $33,900 2011 GMC Savanna, 12 pass van, white, 46,300km, Stk R5029..................................$29,900 2012 Ford Supercab F-150, Fx4, white, 96,363km, Stk T14283A...................................................$38,900 2012 GMC Sierra SLE, 2 wheel, white, 106,599km, Stk T13473A...................................................$16,900 2012 GMC Y2 Reg Cab SLE 4x4, mocca, 19,433km, StkT13327A.................................................$25,900 2013 Chev Suburban 1LT 4x4, white, 20,632km,

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10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

The Sky This Month - December 2013

by Gary Boyle, The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada Comet ISON’S last gasp (Part 1) The last few days of November saw a combination of excitement and disappointment. It all began with fourteen months of hype and anticipation of how Comet ISON might perform on the November 28 showdown between fire and ice.

Its path would take the comet through the upper atmosphere of the Sun – a mere 1.3 million kilometres above the hellish surface. As the hours ticked off on that faithful morning, ISON was in the home stretch of its solar rendezvous and was brightening to a healthy magnitude -1. Thanks to the SOHO spacecraft, we

all had a ringside seat for the grand show as by then; it was not safe to look at the Sun visually.

All seemed to be going well until the combination of its velocity of 350 kilometres per second and the Sun’s searing heat was simply too much for the little comet.

A sign of the impending doom was soon evident when ISON’s nucleus started to fade before our eye thus signifying possibility of the comet’s disintegration. As time passed after the predicted perihelion of 1:45 EST, so were our expectations of the termed “comet of our lifetime”.

But just when all was thought to be lost, a tiny fragment emerged from behind SOHO’s occulting disk and then the presence

of a small fan shaped tail, ISON lives on. So here we are a second chance to still photograph a smaller version – a Mini Me ISON. However on the 30th came the news the comet had taken a turn for the worst and was dying once again before our eyes.

However this time it appears like there is no coming back. It is as if is lived long enough to say goodbye. It was a great show while it lasted.

However on the rebound, Comet 2P/Encke will be visible in morning and moving away from the glow of morning twilight and would have been close to ISON if it survived the solar encounter.

Encke comes close every 3.3 years with its orbit can be slightly affected by the inner planets of our solar

system. It comes closest to us every 33 years. On the other hand Comet C/2013 R1 Lovejoy is still healthy and is currently moving through Bootes and on its way to keystone of Hercules by the middle of December. It is currently magnitude 4.9 and is naked eye from a dark location.

Moving to our monthly observations we deal with the Cetus the Whale or Sea Monster.

Either way you picture

it, Cetus is large. At 241 square degrees of celestial real estate, this whale is fourth in area. One of its many interesting stars is Deneb Kaitos or the Beta star. Its surface temperature is a few hundred Kelvins than our own Sun. Measuring some 17 times the radius of Sol, this star has now moved to giant status. At a distance of 96 light years, Deneb Kaitos appears to be one of the brightest X-ray sources within our neighbourhood

GREAT PLAINS COLLEGE LONG-SERVICE AWARDS Eighteen Great Plains College employees were recognized Nov. 28, 2013, for their years of hard work and dedication to the college and its students. The Long-Service Awards were presented in a special ceremony at Walker Place in Swift Current, as part of the college’s annual staff gathering. Great Plains College proudly offers its congratulations to all recipients.

Comet 2P/Encke. (Submitted Photo)

FIVE YEARS (L to R): Wendy Crouch, Jared McKenzie, Keleah Ostrander, Cindy Sundquist Not pictured: Meaghan Lawrence, Tanya Minchin, Mona Patterson, Lana Rhodes, Alan Rose

TEN YEARS

FIFTEEN YEARS

Rene Frank Not pictured: Erin Boisvert, Donna Klaassen, Elaine Oviatt

Doug Blohm, Darryl Denning, Sharon Kopp

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TWENTY-FIVE YEARS Lyla Cooper

All combined, 175 years of service were recognized in 2013!

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12/10/2013 3:28:01 PM

of stars.

From here, move your scope up a bit more than four degrees till you find NGC 210. Catalogues as an SaB, this face on spiral galaxy is estimated to be about 71 million light years. The stunning feature aside from its distant or two very thin spiral arms is the enormous nucleus.

Until next week, clear skies everyone.

Part 2 continued next week.

THE INDEPENDENT , BIGGAR, SK - 11

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

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Have A Happy

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Hope your holiday dishes out a generous portion of joy and laughter. It’s been a pleaseure serving you all year long! …Anne Livingston

Stop in or call today.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT , BIGGAR, SK - 13

Catch The

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“As another season comes to a close, I want to thank alL my awesome clients for your patronage!

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I’m looking forward to working with you in the New season! … Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Wayne Baldwin, Personal Trainer

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WISHING YOU PEACE AT THE HOLIDAYS May your home be blessed and your heart filled, by the beauty and spirit of this inspiring time of year.

We know you inspire us in so many ways, and we are truly grateful to have neighbours like you. Thanks!

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New Year’s Eve

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 Live Entertainment… “Passage” • Midnight Champagne • Party Favours • Lunch RESERVATIONS Recommended 306-948-3301

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14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

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Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

FREE delivery Check us out on facebook: www.facebook.com/biggarpharmasave

Let US help YOU with Your Shopping List!!! …from Comfy & Cozy to Glitzy & Glamorous Choose from BRAND NAMES like…

• Silver Jeans • Scarves • Jackets • Jeans • Tribal • Purses • Boots • Jewellery • French Dressing • Mittens • TanJay/Alia • Artex Bring in a Non-perishable • Jag Jeans item for the Food Bank and • Soya Concept • Press • Libra • Picadilly • Point Zero on most items • Powder Room (even sale items!!!)

• Nicole Benisti … and more!!!

SAVE 20%

t Gif ng p p i wra le ilab

Our gift certiÀcates Àt everyone!!!

ava

Cruise W Wear NEO! HER

216 Main Street • Biggar • 948-4855 Store Hours… Tuesday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

OPEN MONDAYS IN DECEMBER!

Start Redeeming Dec. 13 to Dec. 31

2

/$5

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15

Winterize your vehicle…

FREE checkup of tire pressure, Áuids, and block heater.

Winter Snow Tires…

Call 306-948-3376 for appointments pp at t… at…

Corner of First Avenue aan and Main Street, Biggar

All subscriptions expire December 31, 2013 Pickup -- $30.45 • 40 Mile/Online -- $35.70 • Outside 40 Mile -- $40.95

Renew Now By phone • 306-948-3344 Email • tip@sasktel.net Online • biggarindependent.ca Mail • Biggar Independent, Box 40, Biggar, SK, S0K 0M0 In Person • 102 3rd Ave. West, Biggar, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Classi¿ed

call: 306-948-3344 fax: 306-948-2133 email: tip@sasktel.net www.biggarindependent.ca Box 40, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

CLASSIFIED AD RATES DEADLINE-MONDAY AT 5 p.m.

25 words or less ....................................$12.00 per week Over 25 words .................................. - per word 25¢

Repeats -- 3 weeks for the price of 2

If The Independent Box Number is used add $3.00

• ALL CLASSIFIED MUST BE PREPAID • Obituaries, limit of 300 words, without photo..... $65.00 - With black & white photo............................. $70.00 - Additional words, per word................................25¢ ‘Happy’ Ads…Anniversary, Engagements, Birthday Greetings,etc...................................$45.00 with black & white photo...................... $50.00 Bold Type .................................................... $2.00 Italic Type..................................................... $2.00 Birth Announcements................................... $40.00 - With a black & white Photo......................... $45.00 Administration Charges................................ $5.00 CONDITIONS OF ADVERTISING ACCEPTANCE All advertising subject to publisher’s approval. It is agreed by The independent and any advertiser using or requesting space that the publisher shall not be held liable for damages in event of non-insertion of, or errors in advertisements, in excess of or beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by the non-insertion, or by that portion of the advertisement in which the error or non-insertion occurred whether such error or non-insertion is due to the negligence of its ser vants or other wise.

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

PLEASE READ YOUR AD -- Advertisers should read their advertisement THE FIRST ISSUE IT APPEARS and report any errors in time for the next insertion.

The Independent is responsible subject to the conditions noted above, for ONLY the Årst incorrect insertion.

NO REFUND on classiÅeds. Times to run must be stated at First Insertion.

Enclose cheque, money order, Visa, MasterCard or American Express for your classiÅed.

Other Advertising Rates Available upon Request.

The BIGGAR INDEPENDENT accepts advertisements in good faith. We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally. Publication by this newspaper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or service offered.

SUBSCRIPTION RATES… Pick up… $29.00 + $1.45 gst = $30.45 Inside 40-mile radius/ONLINE $34.00 + $1.70 gst = $35.70 Outside 40-mile radius… $39.00 + $1.95 gst = $40.95

CARD OF THANKS The Heather family wishes to say a huge thank you to all for the food, visits, cards, Àowers, phone calls and Dr. McKee. Your support during this dif¿cult time is very much appreciated.

Ron, Dan, Brad, Sharalee and families 50gfs1

COMING EVENTS SUNDAYS in December: Presbyterians, Anglicans, Lutherans (PALS) will be worshipping at Redeemer Lutheran Church at 10:30 a.m.; except for Sunday, December 15 when there will be a supper at 5:30 and Christmas Pageant with Lessons and Carols @ 7:00 p.m. at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. Everyone is welcome.

For more information or pastoral services, please phone Pastor Mark Kleiner @ 306-948-3731 or 306-951-7122 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.; Sunday School at 9:45 a.m. Everyone is welcome to join us. Pastor Wicks can be reached in the of¿ce at 306948-3424, Tuesday through Thursday.

36tfn

COMING EVENTS TUESDAYS: Healthy Choices Weight Support Group (formerly TOPS) meets every Tuesday, 6 - 7 p.m. at Biggar New Horizons lower hall with elevator access.

Membership $5 per month, nothing to buy. Everyone welcome. Contact Pearl @ 306948-2523 or Barb @ 306-6583355.

47p4 NOVEMBER 7 - DECEMBER 14: Biggar Museum’s Annual Silent Auction, Christmas Magic, in the Credit Union Gallery at Biggar Museum & Gallery, 105-3rd Ave. West. Open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (throughout noon hour) for your bidding convenience.

44c7 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14: The last day of bidding at the Biggar Museum’s Christmas Magic Silent Auction! Bidding closes at 3:00 p.m. sharp! Your LAST CHANCE to get some great gifts! Doors open at 1:00 p.m.

48c3 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15: 2:30 p.m. Our Lady of Fatima & Friends Parish Choir invite you to our “Sharing the Joy of the Season” concert at Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church, Landis, Sask. Dessert to follow.

Silver Collection, proceeds to Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

48p3

COMING EVENTS

MISCELLANEOUS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16: 7 p.m., ‘Best of the Season’ at Majestic Theatre. Come out and enjoy an evening of great violin, piano and vocal Christmas music performed by students of Tanya Schultz, Janelle Leschinski and Peggy L’Hoir. Silver Collection.

50c1 TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17: ATTENTION BUSINESS OWNERS: 7 p.m. at Westwinds Motor Hotel. Come and hear about creating Biggar’s Online Mall with guest speaker, Sara Wheelwright.

50c1 UNTIL DECEMBER 19: Don’t forget to enter to win gift certi¿cates in the amount of $750, $500 or $200 whenever you make a purchase at participating merchants in the Christmas Promotion, check out the centerfold of The Independent .

50nc TUESDAY, JANUARY 7: Biggar Youth Travel Club Bottle Drive, 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.. If you will not be home but would like to donate, bottles may be left on your front step for pickup or call Tallie Chupik at 306-948-2614 or Raylynn Hooper at 306-2374441 or bottles may be dropped off at BCS parking lot on Tues.

Jan. 7. Proceeds to Biggar Youth Travel Club. Thank you for your support.

50c3

NOTICE 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. tfn 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

MISCELLANEOUS BOSCH Mixers $229 & up, VITAMIX Blenders $499 & up, BAMIX Hand Blenders Kitchenaid Commercial Mixers, Spiral slicers, LEFSE Supplies,Call Hometech Regina toll free 1-888-692-6724 METAL ROOFING, SIDING, AND TRIMS. 36” Tuff-Rib/ Low-Rib Colored 83¢/sq.ft.

Galvalume 72¢/sq.ft. Largest Color Selection. Custom Trims Manufactured In-house 40 Year Warranty. Call MEL-VIEW METAL 1-306-752-4219.

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.

Small ads work… you’re reading this one!!!

Experience our…

Senior’s Health Getaway Includes an Overnight stay, Arthritis Society Aquatic Program, Water Yoga And full access to the Soothing Mineral Waters www.templegardens.sk.ca

*Some restrictions apply See website for details 1-800-718-SPAS (7727) STEEL BUILDING...” THE BIG YEAR END CLEAR OUT!” 20X22 $4,259. 25X24 $4,684.

30X34 $6,895. 35X36 $9,190.

40X48 $12,526. 47X70 $17,200.

One End 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 Four Bourgault Titan II packer arms, 306-948-3474 40tfn Old battery collection, Fisher #300 Cadet Squadron. Drop off at the Biggar Land¿ll OR contact Quentin Sittler at 306-658-2132 3tfn 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.

32tfn Wanted All Wild fur, old traps & antlers. Phone Bryon (306) 2787756 or Phil (306) 278-2299

CARS & TRUCKS 2001 Ford F-150 extended cab, 165,000km, A/C/T, new tires and battery, good condition. Book value $7100 selling for $6250.

Call 306-948-5347 48p3 Wrecking auto-trucks: Parts to ¿t over 500 trucks. Lots of Dodge, GMC, Ford, imports... We ship anywhere. Lots of Dodge, diesel, 4x4 stuff... Trucks up to 3 tons. North-East Recyclers 780875-0270 (Lloydminster).

Guaranteed approval drive away today! We lend money to everyone. Fast approvals, best interest rates. Over 500 vehicles sale priced for immediate delivery OAC. 1-877-796-0514. www.yourapprovedonline.com.

RECREATION 1985 Yamaha Virago, 1,000 cc, new rubber, carbs and forks redone. Phone 306-948-7521. tfn 1985 Honda Goldwing, new rubber, shocks redone this spring, new battery, $3500 obo; phone 306-948-3344 tfn

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

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

SEED & FEED Hay for Sale. Phone 306-9487758 48p3 50 small round crested wheat grass and brome bales. Phone evenings, 306-948-2879 50p4

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

REAL ESTATE ONLY A FEW UNITS LEFT! 55 PLUS ADULT COMMUNITY Ground Level Ranchers. www. diamondplace.ca 306 241 0123 Warman, SK

LAND for RENT LAND FOR CASH RENT: RM of Biggar #347… NW 5-3713-W3rd; NW 21-37-14-W3rd; NE 21-37-14-W3rd; SE 31-3714-W3rd; NE 18-37-14-W3rd; SW 18-37-14-W3rd; NE 13-3715-W3rd; SE 26-37-15-W3rd; NW 36-37-15-W3rd; NW 3037-14-W3rd; SW 31-37-14W3rd: Approximately 1600 acres. All or in parcels. 3 year contract. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Only written tenders accepted until December 31, 2013. Send to Paul Shamon, Box 701, Biggar, SK, S0K 0M0 49p3

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY FOR RENT For Rent: 980 sq. ft. storefront and 2200 sq ft. heated warehouse, $850 per month.

306-948-7022 41tfn

HOUSES FOR SALE/RENT One bedroom house for sale/ rent. All appliances included.

Move in ready. $60,000. 2162nd Ave. East, Biggar. Call for appointment, 306-948-2585 46tfn

For all your stamp needs, call 306-948-3344

HOUSES for SALE 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 $45,000.00 obo. Would make a great starter home or retirement home. For more information call (306) 948-7161.

38tfn

HOUSES for RENT One bedroom house for rent in Biggar. Call 306-222-8216 50c3 Partially furnished 3-bedroom house for rent, 306-948-3676 50p3 3-bedroom house for rent, close to downtown and school, Fridge and stove included. For viewing call 306-948-3674 or 306-9489517.

50tfn

LAND for SALE FARMLAND WANTED NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES Central - 66 1/4’s South Central - 18 1/4’s East Central - 74 1/4’s South - 70 1/4’s South East - 22 1/4’s South West - 58 1/4’s North - 6 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 55 1/4’s FARM AND PASTURE LAND AVAILABLE TO RENT

PURCHASING: SINGLE TO LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK QUICK PAYMENT. YMENT. RENT BACK AVAILABLE Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca Stop in to…

1st Ave. West, Biggar 948-2700

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

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.

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

SERVICES

If YOU are…

• Moving • Expecting a Baby • Planning a Wedding • Anticipating Retirement Call WELCOME WAGON at

306.948.4141 - Sherry Thompson We have gifts and information www.welcomewagon.ca Biggar & District Arts Council are available for bar tending services at your functions/events. Contact Denise at 306-948-2452.

40tfn

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

E M P L O Y M E N T OPPORTUNITYAdministrative Associate/Bookkeeper for operation in the $5 million range located in Prince Albert Area.

Candidate should have Accounting major with extensive Of¿ce Administration experience.

General responsibilities and quali¿cations available on request. Position offers progressive career, comprehensive training, Àexibility and comprehensive bene¿ts package. Criminal Record Check required. Interested quali¿ed candidates send resume to: office@groenenaccounting. com or fax to 306-747-3592.

Salary based on Experience & Education Closing Date: DECEMBER 20th, 2013

Grasslands News Group has immediate openings for reporter/photographers at the Melville Advance and Fort Qu’ Appelle Times. We are a new company looking for skilled, energetic staff to help us grow our products and communities.

Experience preferred but willing to train j-school grads. The applicant must have a working knowledge of Macintosh publishing programs, especially Microsoft Word and Adobe Photoshop.

Page design experience is a de¿nite asset.

Must have a digital camera.

Competitive wage. Full-time, Àexible schedule. Send resumé and clippings by Dec. 16 to George A. Brown, managing editor editor.melvilleadvance@ sasktel.net

WW1343

TRUCKFREIGHT WW1344 INTERNATIONAL (TFI) OWNER OPERATORS TFI specializes in the handling and transportation (Super “B”) of bulk commodities for the agricultural industry.

We are looking for Owner Operators based in your area. ts: • Based out of your home location

PERSONAL AVAILABLE BACHELORETTES At 39 I do have my act/life together. I am super busy, but do have time for love.

I am playful, outgoing & love people. I love dressing up, am financially secure & happy. ***** At 60 I feel great! I have my children, my grandchild, my farm, my health, my friends & my community, but I am alone. I am 5’3”, 120lbs & love to cook, dance, golf & volunteer. ***** I am in my 40’s with teenagers, animals, work and the business of everyday life. “I manage it all - you have to, right?”, but I don’t have someone special in my life & I feel it. ***** After my divorce I found it very difficult to meet quality people. I am 47, 5’8”, 150lbs. I’m an animals lover & into fitness. I’m athletic. I travel for work & love the peace & quiet of my ranch. ***** At 38 I’m a pretty, natural blonde who has the world at my feet. I’m 5’8”, 139lbs & a horse lover. I am friendly, caring, feminine & loving.

• Monday to Friday work ts package • Semi-monthly pay • Paid on percentage of revenue Interested individuals call:

1-888 421-4433 or 1-204-805-0681 Ask for Chuck Cadick Visit our website at:

www.truck-freight.com

Biggar and District Family Centre is looking for a Coordinator.

WW1345 Ready to Join, Ready to Meet, Ready for Love 100% confidential, 100% offline, 100% Personalized Matchmakers Select 1888-916-2824 www.selectintroductions.com Agriculture, remote, country, rural. Est 13 Years.

Guaranteed Service, Customized Memberships, Thorough Screening Process.

JOURNEYMAN AUTOMOTIVE Service Technician(s) in Hanna Alberta. Hanna Chrysler Ltd. offers competitive wages from $32/hour, negotiable depending on experience. Bright, modern shop. Full-time permanent with bene¿ts. Friendly town just 2 hours from major urban centres.

More info at: hannachrysler. ca. Fax 403-854-2845; Email: chrysler@telusplanet.net.

GPRC, Fairview Campus, Alberta needs Power Engineering Instructors. No teaching experience, no problem. Please contact Brian Carreau at 780-835-6631 and/ or visit our website at www.gprc. ab.ca.

Classi¿eds Work Phone 306-948-3344

The position will involve organizing programs and activities out of the Family Centre. Other responsibilities include: Overseeing program staff and volunteers, fundraising, and the general day to day running of the Family Centre. The Director will be there to support and direct the Family Centre Coordinator in their duties.

This job has lots of oppportunity to plan ahead but also has last minute things that can come up that need to be addressed right away. The position has Áex hours, which means your hours of work will depend on when the programs are running and other Family Centre needs. If you are well organized, love to plan, and work well with others, this job may be for you. The Coordinator’s job would be great for someone who is retired or a person who is not looking for full time employment.

Please contact Georgina Heather for more information at 306-948-5623 or send your resume with three references before Monday, January 13, 2014 to: The Biggar and District Family Centre, P. O. Box 98, Biggar, SK, S0K 0M0

DEADLINE For news, classifieds and ad copy

Monday, DEC. 16 • 5 P.M. •

for publication on thursday,

Dec. 19

Early DEADLINE for January 2, 2014 paper is TUESDAY, December 17th • 5 p.m. •

18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

The Biggar Independent makes a great gift that lasts all year!!!

Get all the local news and upcoming events every week!

Pickup: $29.00 + $1.45 GST = $30.45 Within 40 mile radius or Online: $34.00 + $1.70 GST = $35.70 Outside 40 mile radius: $39.00 + $1.95 GST = $40.95 (306) 948 3344 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar email: biggarindependent.ca

Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for:

Saskatoon - Biggar Office

•Farm •Residential •Commercial •Acreage

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

DUANE NEUFELDT

948-5052 (office)

403 Main St., Biggar

Cell 948-9168

306-948-8055 Fax: 306-948-2763 www.DuaneNeufeldt.com

Proud sponsor of Children’s Wish Foundation

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

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

Call: 306-948-2101

FAX SERVICE at The Independent

fewer people working in the resource sector,” Wall said. “There are more people working in construction, agriculture, research and technology, transportation and manufacturing, which shows the strength and diversity of the Saskatchewan economy.

“Still, there is more to be done. We have a skilled labour shortage in some key areas and we need to do a better job of ensuring that we are training people today to meet the labour requirement of tomorrow.

That’s why I have asked the Ministers of Economy and Advanced Education to make this a priority and provide recommen-

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

Licensed For: • Residential • Acreage • Farm

… Govt, cont. from front page

Tim Hammond, BSA, P.Ag., Broker

www.TimHammond.ca www.FarmsofCanada.com

Proud to handle Biggar’s Real Estate Needs

Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for: •Residential

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

948-5052 (office) Cell 948-7995 www.TimHammond.ca http://Cari.TimHammond.ca

Cari McCarty Residential Sales

Biggar’s Top Performing Residential Agent This space in this directory is available for only

$161.20 plus gst…

Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for: •Farm •Acreage •Residential • Commercial rd

113 - 3 Ave. W., Biggar

one column x 2 inches for 26-week prepaid commitment

dations for action early in the new year.”

Wall said while a growing province presents many challenges, he prefers those challenges to the challenges of decline Saskatchewan faced just a few years ago.

“Our province is growing, our budget is balanced and our economy is diversified and strong,” Wall said. “2013 has been a great year for Saskatchewan and we can all look forward to another great year in 2014.”

The legislative session will resume on March 3 with the new provincial budget to be delivered later that month.

MORTGAGE BROKER

KEVIN KURULAK Mortgage Associate THE BIGGAR Broker License #316322 INDEPENDENT 403 Main St., Biggar direct. 306.948.5200 cell. 306.303.9025 NEWSSTANDS The Mortgage toll free phone. 1.877.734.3216 Group @ toll free fax. 1.877.734.3219 License #315872 • Esso email. kevin.tmgbroker.com

on

• Leslie’s Drugstore www.mortgagegroup.com • Pharmasave • Quick Stop INSURANCE • Super A Foods • Shop Easy Food • Weasie’s Gourmet Blends ¾ Auto & Home Insurance • Feudal Co-op, ¾ Farm & Commercial Insurance ¾ Health & Travel Insurance Perdue ¾ Life Insurance & Investments • The Store, Perdue

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”

948-5052 (office) Cell 948-4478

(regular price is $19.88 per week = $516.88 plus gst)

www.TimHammond.ca www.FarmsofCanada.com

Dave Molberg

Call 306-948-3344

BSA

Exposure, Experience and Effort.

biggarindependent.ca biggarindependent.ca

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

Rubber Stamps Faxing Photocopies Envelopes Letterheads Business Cards Receipts Invoices Statements Flyers

; ; ; ; ; ; ; ; ;

Posters Resumes Menus Programs and Booklets Pamphlets Christmas letters File Folders Address Labels Sticky Labels

; ; ; ; ;

Social Tickets Draw Tickets Calendars and Day Planners Wedding and Anniversary INVITATIONS Presentations

Call now for your FREE quote on all your printing needs Phone: 948-3344 Fax: 306-948-2133 Email: tip@sasktel.net Box 40, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

and more, just INQUIRE…

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, DECEMBER 12, 2013

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

Helping you Help yourself Phone:

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

AURORA CONSTRUCTION & HAPPY AMPER SERVICES • Sewer • Water • Power • Drainage • Footings

Electrical Installation & Maintenance

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

MADGE

LAROCHELLE CONTRACTING

CONTRACTING LTD. For all your rooÀng needs… ¬New Construction ¬Metal ¬Torch-on ¬Re-roofs ¬Tile ¬Asphalt ¬All repairs ¬Shakes 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

• Commercial • Industrial • Residential

Electrical… 306-658-3004 Excavation… 306-951-7667 BIGGAR ELECTRICAL & REFRIGERATION SERVICES Authorized Appliance Depot Electrical Wiring Trenching Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan

306-948-5291

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

Cell: 306-221-6888

PLUMBING & HEATING

for all your electrical needs

Dion Harrabek 306-948-2657 cell: 306-948-9136 dionh@sasktel.net

OPTOMETRISTS

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

• framing • additions • windows & door sales • siding • rooÄng • drywall & Änishing

& AZg]rfZg L^kob\^l & EZ[hnk Abk^ L^kob\^ FREE quotes Prompt Honest Service

Nick Maguire 306-948-3325 (home) 306-948-4558 (cell)

Biggar, Sask.

Spray Foam In Biggar Every Tuesday.

Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main Street, Biggar

For appointments…

1-855-651-3311

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

www.photosbyjocelyn.com

306-948-2814

Insulation

306-948-2805 Cell: 306-948-6062 Email: northland83@yourlink.ca Want to insulate your quonset, farm/commercial buildings, house or cabin?

Lower your heating and cooling costs and add strength to your buildings!

Renos…

Wood and Steel Buildings Floor & Trusses GEORGE STAHL Ph: cell:

(306) 948-3776 (306) 260-6503

This space in this directory is available for only $161.20 plus gst… one column x 2 inches for 26-week prepaid commitment Call 306-948-3344

- together with -

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

…owned and operated by Brett Barber

(back entrance) 104 - 6th Ave. E., Biggar

306.948.2208

Michelle Spuzak,

Evening, Saturday and in-home appointments available.

306-948-2548 or 948-9710

Biggar

Weight Loss & Wellness Centre

• ‘Ideal Protein’ Weight Loss • ‘Slender You’ Figure Salon Weightless Coach Anne G. Livingston 317 Main St., Biggar

306-948-7274

Call Making Biggar Smaller!

306-716-4021

biggarindependent.ca

“Putting PERSONAL back into fitness training!”

Wayne Baldwin, PFT, CPTA, CNHC

Specializing in Exclusive Seasonal Personal Training Sessions! …for weight loss,

Garry A. Faye Chartered Accountant Notary Public 201B-2nd Ave. West

body sculpting, strength training.

Offering… One-on-One Rehab & Therapy Sessions * Limited Memberships available to fully equipped Private Fitness Studio & Cardio Room Gift Certificates available

P. O. Box 1480 Biggar, Sask.

Phone: 306-948-5133

Visit us @ 114- 2nd Ave. W., Biggar Where you can feel right at home!

223 Main Street Biggar

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

Family Therapist and Marriage Commissioner (Wilkie)

Perdue Massage Clinic Registered Massage Therapist (MTAS)

Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO

OPEN: Tues.-Fri. • 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

306-948-2183

ADVERTISING is an investment in your business.

Email: ddolack@sasktel.net Website: www.hrblock.ca

Roderick B. Campbell, CMA

Evenings and Saturday appointments available.

• Bookkeeping • Tax Returns • Financial Statements

Phone or Text:

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

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

rod.campbell@sasktel.net Box 988, Biggar, SK

LEGAL SERVICES

BUSSE LAW

DENTAL

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.

306-948-3408

New Stucco & Restoration…

ONLINE @

BIGGAR ACCOUNTING SERVICES

306-918-7264

~ Gift CertiÅcates ~

(regular price is $19.88 per week = $516.88 plus gst)

modernlookhomerenos@gmail.com www.facebook.com/modern.look.35

New Beginnings Wellness Centre

jacklinandrews@ gmail.com

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

interior & exterior painting, textured ceilings, drywall, mud & tape acrylic Ànish, full system foam, paper/ wire, pargings/ICF blocks, custom pillars & battons, repair/service

306-948-4565 (c)

Services available…

HOME IMPROVEMENTS Northland Foaming

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

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

306-948-3389

Doctor of Optometry

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

>LSSZ /VTLZ *VUZ[Y\J[PVU

Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff

Kirk Ewen

PRAIRIE BOYZ VINYL FENCING LTD.

ACCOUNTING

Jacklin Andrews, MSW

>qm^kbhk IZbgmbg`

PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL

306-948-7390

HEALTH/WELLNESS

NCM Home Maintenance & Bgm^kbhk Zg]

DMH ELECTRIC Construction, consulting and Maintenance Licensed Journeyman

www.madgerooÀng.com Biggar, Sask.

Build fences and decks For all your fence and deck needs, give me a call…

HEALTH/WELLNESS

DR. GLENN RIEKMAN Dentist 115 - 1st Avenue West Rosetown, Sask.

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

Phone:306.882.2123 Emergency (after hours) 306.882.2006 This space is available for only $80.60 plus gst… one column x 1 inch for 26-week prepaid commitment (regular price is $9.94 per week = $258.44 plus gst)

Call 306.948.3344

PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Barristers & Solicitors Stuart A. Busse, QC Larry A. Kirk, LL.B. Bonnie L. Reddekopp, JD 302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

306-948-3346 …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 look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:

306-948-5352 or 306-244-9865 BOOKS Pat Wicks,

Living Books Distributor 205-3rd Ave. East, Biggar Books, gifts, cards.

Shop at my home!

Call 306-948-3427 for appts.

20 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

INVESTMENTS For all your investment needs, Visit…

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

COURIER/HAULING

SERVICES

COMPUTER SERVICES

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

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

~Brian and Cathy Fick~ Dean McCallum, CFP, CIM, FCSI

Lyndsey Sacher

Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

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

Cell: 306-948-7524

222 Main St., Biggar

Tel: 306-986-2600

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

Want a truly independent advisor who will find your unique solution?

Are you looking for Life, Living Benefits Insurance and/or Investment Strategies?

Do you just want to know if your premiums are fair with the right coverage?

222 Main Street 306 948 5377

info@twhÀnancial.ca www.twhÀnancial.ca

Kevin Kurulak Investment Rep Insurance Broker P. 306 948 5200 F. 306 948 5207 Appointments Preferred

AUTOMOTIVE

AUTOMOTIVE

M & N REPAIR 701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar

306.948.3996 Open Monday-Friday Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial

Service Truck Full Mechanical Service Mon - Fri • 8 a.m.-5 p.m. phone: George

306-948-3376 after hours George: 948-4042 Corner of Main Street & 1st Avenue West, Biggar 1st Ave. West, Biggar

Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

Heavy Truck Repair SGI Safety Inspection Auto Repair TIRES

KRF Auto Centre 100% handwash “Where we do it all for you!!”

306.948.2700 Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer

• 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

Open: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Sat. • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Let Vortex protect your truck and your investment with the Vortex Seamless Sprayed on Liner System Prairieland Collision Rosetown, Sask.

306-948-1722

YH Truck, Ag & Auto • Heavy truck parts • Agriculture parts • Automotive parts & accessories www.yhtruckagauto.com

Hwy 14 East, Biggar 306-948-2109

306-882-2289

Get the Biggar Independent

Online SUBSCRIBE

Go to… biggarindependent.ca to sign up.

306.237.7671 Troy May, owner/operator Fax: 306.237.TROY email: tmay@hotmail.ca

Financial Planning Estate Planning Life Insurance

Place a CLASSIFIED by phone

306-948-3344 or email

tip@sasktel.net

Toll Free: 866-403-2298

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

Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc.

403 Main Street, Biggar

BURNT ORANGE SOLUTIONS

Gareth McKee

Pamela Eaton

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.

SERVICES

SERVICES

Super B outÀts hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Rockin D Trucking & Cattle

• 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.

HAULS TO THE DUMP Small moves and deliveries with ½ ton truck

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

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

Phone: 306-948-5600

NORTHLAND PAINTING and SANDBLASTING

Mobile Units Office: 306-948-2805 306- 48 2805 Cell: 306-948-6062 306-948-6062 email: northland83@yourlink.ca

MORSE & PERDUE, SK

306-629-3332 SERVICES

~ FOR RENT ~

• Driveways • Concrete • Garage Pads • Pruning • Planting

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

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

t Delivery

Ask Abou

Your authorized

Panasonic, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Shaw, Yamaha Audio Dealer;

• trenching • trucking • water & sewer • sand & gravel • excavating Call Colin Graham at 306-948-5455

SaskTel Mobility and

A Sign of Qualilty!

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

Jerry Muc Phone: 306-948-2958 Fax:

306-948-5699

Battery Chargers Electric Fencers Repaired/Rebuilt/ Built

Phillips Radio Shop 109 Main St., Biggar

Phone: 306-948-2442 Fax: 306-948-2484

MONARCH MEATS

and Your authorized

High Speed Internet Dealer

BIGGAR LEISURE CENTRE 216 Main St., Biggar

306-

948-3955 Anne G. Livingston

CertiÀed Custom Picture Framer • photographs • paintings • art prints • memorabilia • collages, etc.

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

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

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.

14 ft. x 81 inch dump trailer with two-way tailgate, tarp, two six foot ramps, and two 7000 pound axles.

Great for hauling utility tractors, quads, gravel, dirt, snow, trees, turf, garbage, etc.

Contact: Brad Poletz

306-948-6052 SMALL ADS WORK You’re reading this one!

• sides of Beef available

306-948-3384

Sewing & Embroidery • Jackets • Windsuits • Shirts • Hunting Gear • Bunnyhugs • Caps • Toques • Bags Check out our new website: classicmakings.ca

Please arrange to pick up your photos that have been submitted for publication.

.…thanks, The Independent

306-948-3312 sales@gvsigns.ca

Hair Salons Christina Prpick of

Mane Essence Hair Salon

• Taking appointments Wednesday, Thursdays and Fridays.

(Saturday and evenings on request) Contact Christina @

306-948-2712 SEED CLEANING

Wylie Farms Ltd. SEED CLEANING Canadian Seed Institute Accredited Pedigree, Commercial & Custom Cleaning FULL line of Cleaning Equipment including Gravity Table

Excellent Quality at a Reasonable Price!

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

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

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

McNULTY’S MOBILE SEED CLEANING Custom Cleaning of H.R.S. & C.P. S. Wheat

Phone: 306-948-5678

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

• Snow Removal • Fences …and much more

“Your complete decal and signage shop”

Biggar Sand & Gravel

HAMM’S TRUCKING

• WITH EXPERIENCED OPERATORS AND RELIABLE EQUIPMENT ‘WE WILL GET-R-DONE’

306-948-2879, evenings 306-948-7207, daytime Ed Kolenosky

•Texas Gates •Spray Foam Insulation •Sandblasting & Painting ing n ng g •Internal Coatingss •Rock Guard Coatings tings

J. G. Smith

FOR PROMPT FRIENDLY SERVICE …CALL US WITH YOUR GRAIN AND FERTIZER HAULING NEEDS.

Rebel Landscaping

Judy Judy Kahovec: Kahovec…

882-4313, Cell 306-882-4313, cell831-7935 306-831-7935 Carey Krchov: 882-3213

Carey Krchov…882-3213

HONEYBEE SEPTIC TANK SERVICE Bob Kobelsky

306-658-4474, Landis

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

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

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 21

Biggar New Horizons news

by Karen Itterman We are 12 days into December with many Christmas activities having already taken place.

It truly is a wonderful time of year.

Wednesday night Kaiser scores: Nov. 6 – Bill Fisher 1st, Joyce Colbert 2nd, Pat Turner 3rd, and Geoff Cooke 4th. Nov. 13 – Ken Pearce 1st, Tillie Zimmer 2nd, Mike Plysiuk 3rd, and Ray Silbernagle 4th. Nov. 27 – Bill Fisher 1st, Helen Kanz 2nd, Vi McCarty 3rd, and Vera McNeil 4th. Dec. 4 – Ray Silbernagle 1st, Joyce Colbert 2nd, Reg Turner 3rd, and Pat Turner 4th.

Carpet bowling results: Nov. 5 – 1st place team, Marie Roesch, Agnes Small, Aileen Smith and Barb Swyryda; 2nd place team, Pat Turner, Dinah Kegler, Mildred Henne, Gail Herzberg and Jack Bown. Nov. 12 – 1st place team, Aileen Smith, Pat Turner, Dinah Kegler; 2nd place team, Barb Swyrda, June Hoppe and Jean Tweedle. Nov. 26 – 1st place team, Emily Liska and Aileen Smith, Ed Smith and Rose Clark; 2nd place team, Agnes Small, Judy Rickwood and Dinah Kegler. Dec. 3 – 1st place team, Florence Hammond, Blanche Borchardt, Aileen Smith and Emily Liska; 2nd place team, Marie Roesch, Gail Herzberg, Ed Smith and Barb Swyryda.

Everyone is welcome to come out to New Horizons on Tuesday afternoon for a game of carpet bowling.

Bingo was played on Nov. 14 with six player in attendance. Linda Goring was the winner of the half-n-half bingo and the blackout. Congrats to Linda. The caller for the afternoon was Don Swyryda with Florence

Johnson collecting the tickets.

Dinah Kegler gave out the prizes and also provided the lunch.

For the Nov. 27 afternoon of bingo Don Swyryda was again the caller with Dinah Kegler collecting the tickets. Barb Swyryda gave out the prizes and Joan Smith provided the lunch. The half-n-half bingo game was won

by Doris Gartner and Jack Brown with Barb Swyryda winning the blackout game. Bingo on Dec. 5 was played by 12 people. The caller was Chris Ogrodnick, Anita Beckstead gave out the prizes and Johanna Lehnert collected the tickets.

The lunch was provided

by Aileen Smith. Laura Campbell was the blackout bingo winner with Margaret Molberg winning the half-n-half bingo.

Our Christmas bingo will take place on Dec. 19. We will be giving out wrapped prizes for the winners as well as the regular cash winnings. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Monday afternoon Kaiser scores: Nov. 4 – Dick Sully, Ken Pearce, Joyce Colbert, Wayne McLean.

HSG: Mildred Henne and Ken Pearce. Nov. 18 – Ron Arnold, Bill Fisher, Agnes Watson, Marie Roesch, and HSG: Ron Arnold.

Nov. 25 – Mildred Henne, Geoff Cooke, Ken Pearce, Vera McNeil, and HSG: Mildred Henne and Ken Pearce. Dec. 2 – Agnes Watson, Joyce Colbert, Ron Arnold, Verna Igini, and HSG: Ron Arnold and Joyce Colbert. Kaiser will not be played on December 23 and 30.

Shuffleboard is played in downstairs on Thursday afternoons. Anyone interested in playing is welcome to attend.

Aileen Smith and Jack

Brown came in first place and Mildred Henne and Ed Smith came in second place on Nov. 7. Mildred Henne and Marie Roesch came in first place and Aileen Smith came in second place on Nov. 21.

We had two card parties in November. The Nov. 8 card party had 14 in attendance. With Mildred Henne, Ken Pearce and Reg Turner as the Kaiser winners and Don Swyryda and Rita Besse the cribbage winners.

Host for the afternoon was Barb Swyryda with Don Swyryda providing the lunch. The Nov. 22 card party had 12 people in attendance. The cribbage winners were Marg Molberg and Harvey Moncrieft. The Kaiser winners were Mildred Henne, Wayne McLean and Don Swyryda. Ann Muc was the host for the afternoon and also provided the lunch.

Our monthly Jam Session was held on Nov. 20 with 45 people in attendance. Gord Besse was the master of ceremonies.

Ann Muc and Edna Erickson greeted people at the door. Lunch was provided by Ann Muc, Edna Erickson, Donna Fines and Marlene Flasch. Our next Jam Session will take place on Dec. 18.

Our Annual Craft and Bake Sale took place on Nov. 29 with 60 people attending. Ann Muc and Edna Erickson greeted people at the door and sold our raffle tickets.

June Hoppe was the lucky winner of the door prize.

Thank you everyone who donated baking, crafts, grab bags and white elephant items.

Marlene Flasch, Marie Roesch, June Hoppe and Barb Swyryda were busy welling the items people had

Good food, even better company . . . Patrons of the Biggar New Horizons celebrated the season with a potluck, Monday, bringing in the Christmas season with the great gift of friendship. Laughs were shared, company kept - a fine reminder of the Christmas season. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam) donated. By all reports it was a very enjoyable afternoon.

New Horizons members did Meals on Wheels on Dec. 2-6. Thanks to Don and Barb Swyryda, Karen Itterman and Harvey Moncrieft, Betty Mundt and Joyce Colbert, John and Margaret Molberg, and John and Joanne Kral.

Our December potluck dinner was held on Dec. 9 with 31 people in attendance. The half-nhalf winner was Joanne Kral. Gord Besse was the MC for the afternoon.

Margaret Molberg sold

the half-n-half raffle tickets and Anita Beckstead made the birthday cake.

The winners of our raffle were Shirley Kegler winning the barbecue set and oven mitts, Raymond Dollansky won the handmade shawl and candles and Ljilana Knezevic won the gift certificates from Super A. Due to the rising costs of insurance and fuel the board of New Horizons is raising the cost of a courtesy car ticket to $2 effective Jan. 1, 2014.

The courtesy car will be running until noon on Dec. 24 and will not be

running on Dec. 25 and 26 as the office will be closed. The office will be open and the courtesy car will be operating on Dec. 27.

The courtesy car logged 698 trips in the month of November which averages to 35 trips per day.

The highest number of trips was logged on Nov. 21 with a total of 48 trips with Eugene Motruk as the courtesy car driver.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the New Horizons.

Tuesday the 17th

at 5:00 p.m. is the

deadline

for ads and classiÀeds for the

Àrst issue of January

“Hanover Junction”

Wishing all our customers and future customers

WATCH for Doreen’s Discount Day at Leslie’s Drugstore Biggar • 948-3397

and a

Prosperous 2014!

… Destiny, Stacey and Jim

22 - THE INDEPDENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

ENTER to WIN $750 worth of Gift CertiÀcates up for grabs from these participating merchants …

Battlefords Flooring Centre For Best Selection,Service and Guaranteed Lowest Prices

~ look for the BRIGHT GREEN Building on Hwy 4 North

For ALL your Áooring needs…

Armstrong Lino starting @ .67/sq. ft. er rash C r GS Doo RU

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ly) famil per ’ e n x ’ o ( .6 8

rox App

Laminate

Kelly’s Computer Works Sales and Services 1281 - 100th Street, North Battleford

starting @

.89/sq. ft.

00

.

$20

last s la anititiee e qu Whilil

HOURS: OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday • 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday & Friday • 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday • 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday & Holidays • Noon - 5 p.m.

NOW

Smart Strand carpet starting @

29

$1. /sq. ft.

offering Panasonic TVs and A/V

GUARANTEED 2 week INSTALLATION on in-store products or it’s FREE!

Talk T lk to D Darryll and d staff ff at…

Phone: 306-446-4300 Toll FREE: 1-866-333-0103

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPDENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 23

ENTER to WIN $750 worth of gift certiÀcates from these participating merchants…

Located at 192 - 24th Street West, Battleford - 2 Blocks north of the Post OfÀce in the Town of Battleford • Toll FREE 1-877-937-7474 • Local 306-937-7474 • Fax 306-937-7676 Check us out at www.battlefordfurniture.com

presents…

JANUARY TRAVEL DEALS…………

All flights depart Saskatoon and are based on double occupancy. ¬

RIU JALISCO, 5* in Riviera Nayarit January 5, 12 and 19 for 7 nights, $965.00 plus tax

¬

RIU BAMBU, 5* in Punta Cana January 8 and 15 for 7 nights, $1095.00 plus tax

¬

RIU VARADERO, 5* in Varadero Cuba January 4, 11 and 18 for 7 nights, $995.00 plus tax

¬

RIU PALACE JAMAICA, brand new 5* January 6 and 13, 7 nights, $1845.00 plus tax All prices are based on 7 nights, pricing for 14 nights available, please give us a call.

Subject to availability.

The Europe 2014 booking season is already well undersay. Join Travel Masters Saskatoon for a Travel Talk on Europe with Trafalgar Vacations January 14, 2014.

Prizes (including a trip for two to Ireland), and coffee/tea service is provided.

RSVP to Travel Masters Saskatoon by December 18, 2013 to conÀrm your attendance.

2015 JANUARY JETAWAY to JAMAICA with CATHY, $2,699.00 per person.

Call for all the details -- departs January 20, 2015 for 14 nights!

DESTINATION WEDDING SPECIALIST ATTENTION: SOON-TO-BE BRIDES AND GROOMS… if you are planing a destination wedding, give us a call.

We will help with all the planning, one call does it all!

Experience…Our Advantage Call Shannon Starecki, Franchise Owner Follow us on:

www.GoldEagleCasino.ca Play Responsibly

306-652-9903, Saskatoon Toll FREE: 1-877-652-9992 shannon.starecki@travelmasters.ca

Call Cathy Northcott, Senior Travel Consultant

306-445-7293, North Battleford Toll FREE: 1-800-667-7293 cnorthcott@travelmasters.ca

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

24- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

For Health’s Sake!

by Carmen McGregor, B.S.P., Biggar Pharmasave My baby spits up a lot. Is there something wrong?

It is normal for infants to spit up many times during the day.

Spitting up happens in more than half of all infants during the

first four months of age.

Most babies are “happy spitters” and don’t need any treatment. They usually outgrow this by 18 months of age.

If your baby spits up a lot, but is healthy, happy, and growing, a few “lifestyle changes” may help them to spit

13122MF00

up less. These changes include: • Feed your baby smaller amounts of food, more times during the day. Sometimes spitting up happens when the baby eats too much at one time.

• Burp your baby during and after each feeding

to get rid of air trapped in the stomach.

• If your baby spits up while feeding, stop feeding and wait until the next time you are supposed to feed your baby.

• Keep your baby in an upright position during and after feedings . . .

either up against your chest or sitting up straight when they are able.

• Do not put tight clothes on your baby.

Also, make sure their diaper isn’t too tight either.

• Keep your baby away from cigarette or cigar

smoke.

• Talk to your baby’s prescriber and ask if you should change what you are feeding your baby.

For a small number of babies, spitting up too much may be a sign of something more serious. You should call your baby’s prescriber if you notice any of the following: • Spitting up blood (bright red streaks in the spit up or spit up that looks like used coffee grounds), or spit up that is green or yellow.

• The baby moves their head away from the bottle or breast while also crying or being very fussy.

• Refusing to eat, or choking or gagging when eating.

• Breathing problems such as wheezing, coughing, turning blue, or getting pneumonia often.

• Not gaining weight the way they should be.

• Fewer wet diapers than usual.

• Fever or diarrhea.

Your baby’s health care provider may decide that your baby needs medicine. There are drugs available that can help your baby if spitting up is due to a more serious problem.

Even if medicines are needed, it is important to continue the lifestyle changes mentioned above. This will help the medicines work even better.

Remember, spitting up is normal for most babies. If you have any questions, ask your pharmacist or prescriber.

Tuesday the 17th

at 5:00 p.m. is the

deadline

for ads and classiÀeds for the

Àrst issue of January

Advertising doesn’t cost ... it pays

WATCH for

Doreen’s Discount Day at Leslie’s Drugstore

Biggar • 948-3397

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Thursday, December 12, 2013

Merry Christmas

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Tips when buying a natural Christmas tree Many people harbor strong opinions with regard to which type of Christmas tree they want to purchase. Some cannot live without a natural, freshly-cut Christmas tree, while others prefer the convenience of artificial trees. Those who insist on a natural tree

might want to consider the following tips when buying what’s likely their biggest decorative item of the holiday season. * Ask when the tree was cut down. Precut trees may be cut down weeks before they’re sold. So if you’re buying a precut tree, chances

are the tree was cut down much earlier than you think. This doesn’t mean the tree won’t make it through the holiday season, but a tree that was cut several weeks ago should have some of its bottom trunk removed before it’s placed in the stand. This will make

it easier for the tree to consume water. This step likely isn’t necessary if the tree was cut down the same day you bring it home. * Have the tree shaken before taking it home. A tree should be shaken in a shaker before you put it in your car and

The holiday season is a time to gather with our friends and families to enjoy the blessings in our lives. It is also a time when we reÁect on the passing year, look ahead to the future and make goals for ourselves and our community.

ReÁecting on the past year, 2013 has proved to be exceptional. Numerous projects have been completed such as the new pool liner and spray feature at the Biggar Aquatic Centre, play structure and swings at Buckingham Park, as well as a new stove, hood fan and other enhancements to our Community Hall. We also launched our new town website in November. We invite all residents to visit our website for their source of everything Biggar.

Two major construction projects, the new Diamond Lodge long term care facility and the 3-story 24 unit senior complex Central Park Place have progressed with completion dates scheduled for 2014. 2013 showed to be a powerful year in new infrastructure in Biggar. Almost nine million dollars in new infrastructure began work in 2013. New construction included Central Park Place, Almost Home Care Home, Àve new dwellings and multiple renovation, garages and decks. Biggar has experienced substantial growth in both the residential and commercial sectors over the past few years and shows signs of continued growth and prosperity in the future.

bring it home. A shaker removes any debris or dead needles from the tree, which can save you the trouble of cleaning up all of those dead needles from your living room floor later on. * Have the tree wrapped before taking it home. A tree should also be wrapped in twine before taking it home.

The twine should be tight enough to keep the tree’s branches from blowing in the wind when you attach the tree to the top of your vehicle. If possible, keep the tree wrapped in twine as you place it in the stand. This makes the tree easier to control. * Choose the right location. When looking for the right place to set up your natural tree, it’s best to choose a spot that’s cool and free of drafts. The tree should not be placed near heat sources, including appliances, fireplaces or vents, because such heat sources create a safety hazard and can make it difficult for the tree to retain moisture. There should also be ample space between the top of the tree and the ceiling.

* Place some covering on the ground beneath the tree. Even a freshly cut natural tree will shed needles over the course of the holiday season. Before placing the stand in the location you’ve chosen, put some type of covering, such as a tree bag, beneath the stand so it’s easier to gather all those needles once the holiday season has ended. * Remember that natural trees are thirsty.

Men and women who have never had a natural Christmas tree in the past might be surprised at just how thirsty natural trees get. The stand’s reservoir should have lots of water, which should never dip below the stump. If the water dips below the stump, you might be forced to cut a little more off the bottom of the trunk to ensure the tree will make it through the holiday season. That can be a hassle once the tree has been decorated, so be sure to check the water in the reservoir at least once per day to maintain adequate water levels.

Messiah musical It seems Handel’s The Messiah has become as much a part of Christmas as the Christmas tree. Throughout America, folks gather in concert halls, theatres and churches to hear the splendour of this popular music.

In 1742 after its first performance, it was con-

sidered by church leaders to be sacrilegious but it gained popularity when King George II of England rose to his feet during the “Hallelujah” chorus.

The first performance of The Messiah was as a benefit for hospital patients and prisoners in Dublin.

The Town of Biggar would like to welcome Amanda Carruthers as our Recreation Director and Charla de Bussac as our Accounts Clerk as well as Kevin Markowski who has joined our team as our equipment operator. Both Amanda and Charla joined our team as Recreation Director Erin Poitras and Accounts Clerk Marissa Cempron welcomed beautiful new additions to their respective families. Another new addition will arrive shortly as Amber Dearing is due in early January.

As we embark into a New Year we hope each of you take the opportunity during the holiday season to relax and spend time with friends and family enjoying love and laughter. On behalf of the Council, Administration and staff, we wish you a Christmas that vies contentment, happiness and love, and we wish one and all a very happy and prosperous New Year!

Town of Biggar

Council, Administration and Staff

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

Hon. Gerry Ritz, P.C., M.P. Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food Battlefords - Lloydminster www.gerryritzmp.com

Happy Holidays!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Twelve days of Christmas In Hawaii, the popular “Twelve Days of Christmas” song substitutes s u ch t h i n g s a s n i n e pounds of poi, eight ukuleles, seven shrimps aswimming, and a mynah bird in a papaya tree.

In Vermont, the song refers to lions a-roaring and bears a-sleeping; in Kentucky, 12 cats ascratching and 11 dogs a-banking, while in Massachusetts, the familiar partridge is a pear tree is sometimes replaced by ‘a part of a juniper tree’.

So says UCLA folklorist Joan Perkal, who has

been collecting different versions of the old song, each reflecting different times and lifestyles, according to Dr. Perkal, who has been collecting different versions of the Christmas song for more than 25 years.

There are dozens of possibly hundreds of versions of the old song, each reflecting different times and lifestyles, according to Dr. Perkal, who is bibliographer for UCLA Centre for the Study of Comparative Folklore and Mythology.

When people move

from country to country or region to region, they take some of their culture with them, but it is often adapted to the new lifestyles, she said.

The same was true of the early English settlers who brought the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ to this country, but quickly decided that 10 lords a-leaping was no longer appropriate with their new lifestyle.

This, in some Texas versions, for example, there are 10 bulls a-roaring.

The original four calling birds have become four

colly birds (another name for blackbirds) in some areas, or four Cornish birds, and even four college birds.

The five golden rings have become five goldie rings (a type of seabird) in some places, and five gold wrens in others.

The song has been around for hundreds of years and probably was first sung in England, though it may have grown from songs of French troubadours in the 12th and 13th centuries, Perkal said.

In Olde England, the

song was usually reserved for singing on the 12th night after Christmas, which traditionally commemorates the visit by the three wise men.

Perkal has so far found original variations in almost all of the 50 states, with the notable exceptions of Alaska and California.

“I’d love to find one with gifts of golden nug-

gets, Eskimos and kodiaks bears,” she said.

In the meantime, the Hawaiians are still giving ‘12 televisions, 11 missionaries, 10 cans of beer, nine pounds of point, eight ukuleles, seven shrimps a-swimming, six hula lessons, five big fat pigs, four flower leis, three dry squid, two coconuts, and a myna bird in a papaya tree.

Celebrating the season of Epiphany Celebrants of the Christian faith and Eastern orthodox Christian religion may want to wait a few days after Christmas to start packing away their decorations and cease celebrating the holiday season. That’s because it is customary to commemorate the Epiphany, which marks the day that Jesus Christ was revealed as the Son of God. Epiphany is known by a few different names.

In addition to Epiphany, the holiday is sometimes called Little Christmas and the Feast of the Three Kings. Spanish-speaking individuals refer to it as El Dia de Los Tres Reyes, which essentially translates to Day of the Three Kings.

I n We s t e r n f a i t h s, Epiphany takes place on January 6th. However, in Catholic dioceses in the U.S., it is observed on the Sunday between January 2 and January 8. Eastern Christians follow the Julian calendar rather than

Reindeer marvels In real life, even the tiniest Donner and Blitzen have hoofs that function as snowshoes in deep snow by their broad surfaces. Each hoof is surrounded by horny, sharp rims that grip ice, hard snow and rocks. The concave, padded centres provide traction for rocky hills and icy terrain.

Rudolph in real life can smell his main food supply, lichen, even through several feet of loose snow.

His nose is an insulator allowing him to retain heat and moisture and thus avoid exhaustion and dehydration in the cold.

the Gregorian calendar.

Therefore, Epiphany occurs a few days later for them, on January 19.

According to Christian tradition, Epiphany marks the day the traveling magi arrived from afar to bid welcome to the Baby Jesus. They presented three different gifts:gold, frankincense and myrrh.

“And they came into the house and saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell down and worshiped Him; and opening their treasures they presented to Him gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 Although the Bible doesn’t specifically mention that there were three wise men, biblical historians interpret that there were only three due to the number of gifts that were presented. The names of the magi were Gaspar,

Melchior and Balthasar, but this is something learned post-Bible as well.

Gold represented a gift worthy of a king. Frankincense was an expensive gift valued for its wonderful fragrance and medicinal values and worship. It is thought Frankincense spoke to the worship of God. Myrrh was used as an anesthetic and in burial embalming. It is also used to anoint one in faith.

The meaning of the word “epiphany” is a revealing or an opening of one’s eyes. Although Epiphany is much known for the three wise men, the significance of the day is that God revealed Himself to everyone through the human person who was His Son, Jesus. God reveals that the true God is Jesus, the Messiah, and Savior of the world, who was sent to the people for

Peace On Earth…

Goodwill Towards All Mankind…

this express purpose.

The day of the Epiphany actually marks the first day of the Epiphany season, which lasts until the Lenten season on Ash Wednesday. Through the Epiphany season, God reveals many intricacies of His Word through scripture in the Bible.

Although many Christians celebrate the betterknown holiday of Christm a s, E p i p h a n y m a y have even more spiritual meaning during this holiday season.

In this season of celebration, we are reminded of both the diversity and bounty that nature provides us, and are grateful for the richness and beauty of this wondrous season.

We are also grateful to share it with good people like you, and wish you all the best during this special time of year.

Wylie Farms Ltd. Seed Cleaning Dale, Bill, staff and families 306-948-2807

WISHING YOU To All A HAPPY, Our MemHEALTHY & bers PROPEROUS We’ve had a gre But we know t at year h That w 2014 e could at it’s true,

Withou t

n’t all of y have done it ou!

Wylie Farms Ltd. Seed Cleaning

…and sincere thanks for all the goodwill you’ve shown toward us this past year. We look forward to your next visit.

Quick Stop Convenience Store & Fas Gas Bar Sharon, Tracy, Ray, Jamie and staff

306-948-5494

306-948-2807 Boar d, M

anag

emen

t and

Staff

Warmest Holiday Greetings…

Joy, peace and good health to you and those you love!

Heartland Health Region

May your year be Àtted with good times, good friends and good fortune.

We thank you for your generous support and look forward to serving you again.

Crop Production Services Management and staff

Hwy #4, Biggar, • 306-948-1753

Season’s Greetings THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT

To all our friends and customers out in Biggar and area -- we appreciate your support and wish you all a Happy & Healthy New Year.

~Murray & Lori McNally~ •

AUTOMATICS/STANDARDS th

525 - 44 St. E., Saskatoon • 306-242-2225 “We do things right allomatically”

Merry Christmas

Test your knowledge of popular Christmas movies What would the holidays be without snowflakes falling outside, a mug of hot cocoa in hand and a favorite Christmas movie on television?

Television is full of feelgood movies come the holiday season. Choose from among classic flicks you have watched year after year or new movies vying for spots as soon-tobe favorites.

Watching Christmas movies is a holiday tradition for many families.

So much so that lines from popular movies are easily remembered and recognized. Those who can recite movies verbatim might enjoy testing their mettle with the following Christmas quiz loaded with memorable quotes from some holiday classics.

Movie Quotes Quiz 1. “It came without ribbons. It came without tags.

It came without packages, boxes or bags.”

2. “Uh, since the United States Government declares this man to be Santa Claus, this court will not dispute it. Case dismissed.”

3. “If TV has taught me anything, it’s that miracles always happen to poor kids at Christmas. It happened to Tiny Tim, it happened to Charlie Brown, it happened to The Smurfs, and it’s gonna happen to us!”

4. “I want an official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifle.”

5. “Bless this highly nutritious microwavable macaroni and cheese dinner and the people who sold it on sale. Amen.”

6. “Iris, in the movies, we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason, you’re behaving like the best friend.”

7. “Who gave you permission to tell Charlie there was no Santa Claus? I

think if we’re going to destroy our son’s delusions, I should be a part of it.”

8. “I want to wash my hands, my face, my hair with snow.”

9. “We’re not just doing this for us. We’re doing it for the kids. For every kid who ever sat on Santa’s lap. For every little girl who left cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas night. For every little boy who opens a package Christmas morning and finds clothes instead of toys. It breaks my heart.”

10. “We all know that Christmas is a big commercial racket. It’s run by a big Eastern syndicate you know.”

11. “I fear you more than any spectre I have seen.

But as I know your purpose is to do me good, and as I hope to live to be another man from what I was, I am prepared to bear your company, and do it with a thankful heart. Will you not speak to me?”

12. “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.”

13. “Light the lamp, not the rat, light the lamp, not the rat! Put me out, put me out, put me out!”

14. “Tell me something, Billy. How come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly monsters?”

15. “Wanna see some magic? OK, let’s watch you disappear!”

16. “That’s not ‘my’ Christmas! ‘My’ Christmas is filled with laughter, and joy... and this: my Sandy Claws outfit. I want you to make it.”

17. “That’s neither pig nor pork, it’s beef.”

18. “I passed through the seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then I walked through the Lincoln Tunnel.”

Christmas memories We all have our own particularly meaningful memories of Christmases past and it’s those memories that remind us of the love and joy that is truly the spirit of the season.

For some, Christmas memories are of the entire family gathering together.

This is always especially meaningful to parents who children have scattered throughout the land and have “come home” for the holidays.

Perhaps helping others less fortunate provides outstanding memories for some. Inviting a lonely elderly person to join in your Christmas dinner of donating carefully-selected foods and gifts to your

favourite charity organization makes one feel very much in tune with the holiday theme. Often, out most poignant memories come from such expressions of selflessness.

For others, special Christmas memories go farther back in time -to younger days when simple hopes and dreams prevailed. The memory of the first time you earned the money yourself for mom’s gift comes to mind.

You might still recall the feeling of anticipation and pride as she opened “your” gift. Of course, her response couldn’t have been better -- she was thrilled!

Music is always a special part of Christmas and the

voices of carolers take on a more potent significant when heard though the halls of hospitals and convalescent homes. Spreading cheer to those who will not be able to go home for Christmas is indeed a heartwarming memory for those who’ve participated in this thoughtful act.

A child’s excitement at Christmas is especially delightful and memorable.

Who can resist getting caught up in Santa Claus, candy-filled stockings, midnight toy assemblings and the wide-eyed expectancy of kids being trotted off to bed on Christmas with the youngsters.

In perfect harmony with the season, our most cherished memories are certainly those of love.

Nothing could be sweeter for us than knowing people like you.

Randy Weekes, M.L.A. Biggar Constituency 306-948-4880, toll free 1-877-948-4880

It’s always a treat to see you and we look forward to your continued friendship.

Box 1413, 106-3rd Avenue West, Biggar Even though snow is blanketing the landscape, we’re warmed by having such good friends and neighbors around us this season.

We hope you have a joyful and festive holiday, and a very happy and healthy year ahead.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Answers 1. “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” 2. “Miracle on 34th Street” 3. “The Simpson’s Christmas” 4. “A Christmas Story” 5. “Home Alone” 6. “The Holiday” 7. “The Santa Clause” 8. “White Christmas” 9. “Jingle All the Way” 10. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 11. “A Christmas Carol” 12. “The Polar Express” 13. “The Muppets Christmas Carol” 14. “Gremlins” 15. “Bad Santa” 16. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” 17. “Babes in Toyland” 18. “Elf”

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

With sincere best wishes to our neighbors, patrons and friends. Your support means everything to us. Thanks!

Chico’s Autoworks Richard Livingston

306-948-5077

Biggar Esso Ted, Okso, Yvan and Paula 306-948-3600

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

Christmas Colouring

Make-your-own holiday ornaments Holiday decorating is a big part of the holiday season. Bins are taken out of the attic or garage, and decorations are once again given their opportunity to shine for several weeks before being packed away again.

Among the many decorations families use to deck the halls are ornaments that were made by hand.

This year creating homemade ornaments can be a crafty project that helps families make new holiday memories.

Christmas tree ornaments come in all shapes

and sizes and often tell the stories of holiday traditions. There are several different ways to create personalized, do-it-yourself ornaments and leave the cheap, easily broken ornaments from the dollar stores behind.

Photo ornaments Fun photo ornaments showcase how a family has changed and grown over the years. Experiment with different ways to create these ornaments. You can glue a photo to a ceramic ornament and cover it with decoupage glaze to set it permanently. Try purchas-

ing clear, glass ornaments, then remove the top of the ornament, which is usually spring-loaded, before slipping a photo inside and replacing the top. You also can laminate a photo, punch a hole in the top and affix a ribbon.

Ceramic ornaments The popularity of paintit-yourself pottery has led to an increase in ceramic and crafts shops across the country. During the holiday season such shops offer many holiday items that can be painted. Often the store will then fire the pieces after they are

painted so that they are shiny and hardened for display.

Those who want to do their painting at home can visit their local craft or hobby shop, where typically there are unfinished ceramic ornaments that can be painted with acrylic paints found right in the next aisle. A finishing coat of clear glaze will help protect the ornaments from year to year.

Wood crafts Many of today’s craft centers have expanded to include sections devoted to unfinished wood items.

Everything from letters to animal cutouts to boxes and rocking horses can be purchased and finished. Turn keepsake boxes into painted and ribbon-adorned gift boxes. Stain a treasure chest that can be used to store reindeer snacks for Santa’s crew. Turn small decorative pieces into ornaments for the tree. Paint and affix wood initials onto stocking holders to identify to whom each stocking belongs. Crafty individuals also can turn plain wood plaques into signs with clever sayings, such as “Park your sleigh here.”

Scavenge around the house Young children can use any medium for making ornaments. Garlands made of macaroni or popcorn are traditional. Fabric scraps can be sewn and stuffed with potpourri for homemade scent satchels.

Hand-drawn pictures can be made and laminated and hung on the tree.

The only obstacle with regard to DIY ornaments is a limited imagination.

Homemade items can add whimsy and a personal touch to the holiday season.

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Car thefts more likely during certain times of the year Automotive break-ins and thefts are something no driver wants to experience. They can leave a person feeling violated, and the hassle of replacing the vehicle and the contents inside the car can bring additional stress.

Statistics indicate that a vehicle is stolen in the United States roughly every 28 seconds. Roughly one million cars are reported stolen each year.

According to Statistics Canada, about 100,000 cars are stolen on average each year in that country. Although there are many precautions to help safeguard against car theft, being particularly vigilant during certain holidays might be the best preventive measure a driver can take.

According to analysis of National Crime Information Center vehicle-theft data by the National In-

surance Crime Bureau, car thefts are more likely to occur during certain holidays. The Bureau reports that, between 2010 to 2011, the most recent span of time for which data is available, there were 20,800 U.S. car thefts during the 11 holidays studied. So on which holiday is your car most likely to be stolen?

Here are the holidays as ranked by the number of thefts reported in 2011.

11. Christmas Day: Thieves may be more interested in opening presents under the tree than venturing out in the cold to steal a car or truck.

This holiday ranks the lowest among the major holidays.

10. Thanksgiving: While the turkey and trimmings were being set on the dinner table, 1,526 vehicles were being stolen in 2011.

May peace, joy, harmony and contentment visit your home during this special time of year.

We are sincerely grateful and look forward to your continued friendship.

1st Ave. West, Biggar 306-948-2700

Jack, Carolyn and families

9. Christmas Eve: Those who are engaging in some last-minute shopping at the mall or visiting friends and family for a cup of eggnog may want to be cautious as to where they park their cars.

8. President’s Day: Even Honest Abe cannot prevent would-be thieves from making off with a car on this holiday.

7. Independence Day: Perhaps the fireworks and the revelry of July 4th help to mask the steps needed to steal a car. In 2011, 1,862 vehicles were stolen amid the “rocket’s

red glare.”

6. Valentine’s Day: While couples are dining at favorite restaurants or cuddling up on the couch with a movie playing, a car thief may be making off with a stolen car.

5. New Year’s Eve: So many people are caught up in the moment of toasting the new year that they may not realize a thief is making his or her own resolution to steal a car or truck.

4. Labor Day: The unofficial end to summer is also a prime time for vehicle thefts. There were

1,947 car thefts reported in 2011.

3. Memorial Day: The unofficial start to the summer entertaining season is also a prime time for car thefts.

2. New Year’s Day: While individuals were sleeping off the remnants of their midnight partying, 2,288 vehicles were being stolen on January 1, 2011.

1. Halloween: Although not an “official” holiday, Halloween is the holiday when the most number of vehicles are stolen. The trick is on the person who comes home to find not

Pioneers celebrate Christmas “Christmas was coming.

The little log house was almost buried in snow.

Great drifts were banked against the walls and windows, and in the morning when Pa opened the door, there was a wall of snow as high as Laura’s head.”

Quoted from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s beloved Little House Books -- true accounts of the pioneer life that the writer experience from her 6th to 18th years in the 1870s and 1880s; her restless father moved his family from Wisconsin forest to Indian territory to Minnesota and finally to the Dakota territory.

THe family endured many hardships -- bitter cold winters as well as stifling summer heat.

They lived first in a log cabin, later in a dugout by the creek, then, later in shacks -- wherever fate (and father) moved them.

They went through cyclones, droughts, plagues

of cicadas, yet the Ingalls family shared love and faith in each other, and they always celebrated the birthday of the Christ Child.

For a Christmas in the big woods, when the house was blanketed with snow, Ma baked bread, beans, cookies . . . distilled vinegar and baked dried apple pies! Truly a doughty

soul. They entertained relatives . . . Aunt Eliza and Uncle Peter and the cousins who arrived on Christmas Eve on their big bobsled, sleigh bells ringing.

Christmas Eve found them aglow with anticipation, in a circle of love.

In the morning the children found gifts in their stockings; a pair of bright

JOY

Merry Christmas and warm wishes for a blessed New Year from Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.

www.gscs.sk.ca

red knitted mittens and a stick of red-and-white striped mint candy. Guess who the Christmas Fairy was? She must have earned her reward in heaven, but that Christmas Day she received all the reward she wanted, in the surprise and happiness expressed by every child.

Christmas customs bring joy to all Christmas is the most nostalgic of all festive occasions and its ancient joy is truly reflected in the worldwide customs of this very special holiday.

The singing of oldtime Christmas carols is a celebrated British festivity. This charming custom is still a favourite in both England and America today, where enchanting voices carry the musical message of Christmas.

In certain parts of Italy, children hang stockings near the head of

their beds. An old fairy is supposed to visit each child and leave either sweet meats or stones in the stocking, depending upon whether the child has been good of naughty throughout the year.

In Spain, everyone must be able to claim at least one good deed for the year before Christmas day arrives. Many Spaniards stay awake on Christmas Eve until midnight, when church bells announce the birth of the Holy Child.

The piñata breaking is a well-known custom of

Saskatoon/Biggar

To you this day is born a Saviour.

only is the trick-or-treat candy missing, but also the family car.

Being aware of these prime car-stealing dates can help drivers protect their valuable assets. In addition, it is advised to always park in well-lit areas, keep belongings out of view, make sure the vehicle is always locked when it is parked -- even if it’s in the driveway, invest in an alarm or vehicle immobilization system, and to be extra careful if your car driven is one of the most-stolen makes and models.

Mexico. On Christmas Eve, a papier-mâché figure filled with toys and candy is suspended from the ceiling; children are blindfolded and then allowed to break the piñata with a stick to release the goodies.

In Portugal, children leave their shoes in front of the fireplace so that Santa can fill them with gifts on Christmas Eve.

Phillippines Being a predominately Christian nation, Christmas is a major holiday.

Such a big deal, in fact, that the Phillippines are known around the world as having the longest Christmas season, with carols starting up in early September.

Duane Neufeldt Serving Biggar and Area

306-948-8055

Russia Christmas is celebrated on January 7 in Russia, largely due to the difference between the older Julian Calenders and the newer Gregorian ones.

Christmas Eve is host to a number of lengthy church services, including the “All Night Vigil”, followed by the “Divine Liturgy of the Nativity” in the morning.

Happy Holidays!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

Culinary treats for your Christmas in July Celebrating Christmas in July? Then what celebration is complete without the various goodies synonymous with the holiday season? This July, take a break from backyard barbecue fare and cook up culinary treats with a holiday theme.

Just about everyone looks forward to seasonal sweets, but you don’t have to wait until December to get creative with your favorite holiday indulgences.

• Rethink your cookies. When it comes to culinary delights, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to the basics. But if

you want to put a twist on tradition, consider some alternatives to the holiday cookie sampler, such as cookies with personalized messages. Give these cookies out as gifts, but not before filling decorative jars with all of the dry ingredients needed for your favorite cookie recipe.

• Take a dip. Dipping store-bought confections, such as peppermint sticks, candy canes, candied orange peel, shortbread cookies, or even fresh figs in good-quality chocolate (a mix of dark, milk and white chocolate is even better!) will transform

these everyday items into tasty, holiday-inspired treats.

• Think drinks.

Though it might be hot outside, nothing says holidays like hot chocolate -- especially when it’s homemade. Make your own mix with ground chocolate and sugar or package a high-quality store brand in a festively decorated jar, then add some peppermint sticks, chocolate-coated spoons or homemade marshmallows to the mix.

• Have a jam session.

Handmade jams, preserves and fruit compotes are always appreciated.

Origins of a holiday staple The thick, spiced drink we know as eggnog has become synonymous with the holidays. It is so linked with the Christmas season that a person may be hard-pressed to find it sold in the supermarket any other time of the year. But eggnog wasn’t always the holiday beverage it has become.

Eggnog is believed to have originated in 17th century Europe, primarily as a drink for the elite, since the ingredients in the beverage were hard to come by and thusly relegated to the very rich.

There are different theories on the origins of the word eggnog itself. Some believe it has gotten its name from the Old English word “nog,” which meant “strong beer.” The “egg” refers to one of the ingredients in the beverage, fresh eggs. Others surmise that it comes from the word “noggin,” which was a vessel for serving drinks in taverns. The drink was called “egg in a noggin,” which was shortened to “eggnog.” Still, there are others who say its name is derived from the term “grog,” which was another term for booze. “Egg n’ grog” was eventually abbreviated to “eggnog.”

Although there is little certainty to the origins of the name, the recipe for eggnog has essentially remained unchanged throughout the centuries.

Finland Finland is home to a long standing Christmas tradition, dating back to the Middle Ages, of the “Declaration of Christmas Peace”. To date, this celebration has only been skipped once in 1939, during the Winter War.

It consists of beaten eggs, cream or milk and sugar mixed with some sort of alcoholic spirit. The Old English were believed to mix it with wine, though once the drink was brought to the New World, colonists substituted rum for the wine. Rum was readily available through tradesman running between the Americas and the Caribbean and therefore less expensive than another spirit. As America grew and eggnog was enjoyed in different parts of the country, the rum was replaced with regional spirits, including bourbon or grain alcohol. Other ingredients were also added to give it a customized flavor. However, the use of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves has become traditional flavors for the holiday brew.

Although eggnog is widely enjoyed throughout the holiday season, in the past it was served at special events and social occasions. As a warmed beverage it can easily chase away winter’s chill. This is how it may have come

to be enjoyed primarily during the holidays.

Love it or hate it, eggnog is a drink that can evoke strong feelings of the holidays within minutes. There are variations of eggnog sold commercially, but many people swear by homemade versions for their taste and authenticity. Try your own homemade eggnog with this recipe, courtesy of Cooks.com.

Holiday Eggnog (Spirited) 1 dozen eggs 1 pound powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup vanilla 8 cups evaporated milk 3 cups water 1 quart spiced rum Nutmeg, to garnish Beat eggs until light in color, gradually add sugar, salt and vanilla.

Then add milk and water. Stir in rum (brandy, bourbon or rye may also be used). Cover the nog and ripen for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Stir again and serve sprinkled with nutmeg.

Your creation can be accompanied by some scones or some great toasting bread.

• Bark that’s as good as its bite. Chocolate bark is a delicious nobake treat that’s so easy to make you’ll wonder why you’ve waited so long to try it. Recipes are everywhere, and you can customize the bark with your favorite nuts, dried fruits and other tasty tidbits.

Chocolate and cookies will please your family and any guests celebrating Christmas in July, but another way to evoke the spirit of the holiday season is to create themed baskets of food that are often gifted during the holidays. Share these gifts with friends and family, some of whom you might not have seen since last Christmas. These gift basket ideas are sure to get friends and family geared up for the holiday season, even if it is only July.

• Breakfast basket: Fill a basket with homemade pancakes and waffle mix and a bottle of real maple syrup, or go continental with a batch

of freshly baked scones and a jar of lemon curd.

For the caffeine lover, use two mugs, one filled with a favorite gourmet coffee or tea and the other packed with some homemade pastries or a jar of jam.

• Pasta basket: The centerpiece of this gift could be a jar of your famous tomato sauce, which is surrounded by a package of fresh pasta, a bulb of garlic and a wedge

of Parmesan cheese.

• Pizza basket: Start with a package of homemade pizza dough, add a jar of pizza sauce or pesto made from the basil in your garden, then decorate the basket with a merry mix of cheeses and popular pizza add-ons, such as pepperoni, olives, olive oil, garlic, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and small packets of spices, such as oregano or red pepper flakes.

Warm Wishes

for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year We value your business and look forward to serving you in the new year.

The board, staff and management of

Landis Credit Union 306-658-2152

Wishing everyone a wonderful Holiday Season and all the Best in 2014 Thanks to all my customers for your support and I look forward to serving you in the New year!

Ron and Cheryl Amy Rosetown Mainline Motor Products 1-877-979-7999 306-948-5338 (home)

Wishing you a season Àlled with lots of love, laughter and joy.

For all your support, we are deeply grateful.

Custom RooÀng & MADGE CONTRACTING Owners & Management

306-948-5453

Looks like another great season is shaping up around here, and we owe it all to you, our members, neighbors and friends.

From all of us to all of you, go our best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season.

We look forward to seeing you again.

Diamond Gym and Thuro-Janitorial Services Laurie, Cliff and staff 306-948-5453 306-948-5600

Merry Christmas

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Explaining the “first fruits” celebration Christmas and Chanukah are two holidays ripe with tradition and history. Despite its comparatively short history, Kwanzaa is another important end-of-year holiday. It is based on African heritage and values, which tie in seamlessly with the giving nature of the holiday season.

Kwanzaa was established and first celebrated in December 1966 under the direction of Dr. Mulanga Karenga, who was the chair of Black Studies at the California State University at Long Beach. A year prior, Karenga bore witness to a deadly riot that took place in the predominant-

Have A HAPPY Y! A D I L O H We’re sending this little note your way.

To wish you a happy holiday Filled with enough joy and cheer, To last throughout the coming year.

Thanks for your patronage and we’ll see you next year!

REBEL LANDSCAPING Ed Kolenosky and family

306-948-2879 or 306-948-7207

ly black area of Watts, a neighborhood of Los Angeles. The community was devastated after 34 people were killed and 1,000 injured. Karenga wanted to revitalize the spirits of those hit hard by these acts of violence and also establish a way the African American community could band together through heritage and shared traditions. He looked to the customs of African people and became inspired by the harvest celebrations that took place in Africa. In turn, Karenga developed a nonreligious holiday that melded appreciation of the harvest with the unique identity that is African culture to establish Kwanzaa.

At the heart of the creation of Kwanzaa was the desire to reaffirm communitarian values and practice ways to strengthen and celebrate family. It was also designed to link African Americans as a people in the United States and those on the African continent.

The name of the holiday, “Kwanzaa,” was taken from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza,” which means “first fruits.” The extra “a” was added onto the name to coordinate with seven children, who each wanted to represent a letter in the holiday’s name. Therefore, the additional “a” was added to make it a seven-letter word. One might also deduce that the seven letters tie into the seven days the holiday is celebrated as well as the Nguzo Saba, central to the holiday, which are the Seven Principles of the celebration.

Dr. Karenga believes K wa n z a a h a s g r o w n among African people

for a number of reasons, not the least of which is its ability to speak to the community’s need and appreciation of lifeaffirming values while reaffirming the African tradition. The holiday also brings together people from various countries, several different religious affiliations, different ages, and various political persuasions. Although Kwanzaa was an African holiday created for people of African descent, others can and do celebrate the holiday. Because the basis for Kwanzaa is good will, many people are drawn to its practices.

Unlike other holidays of the season, Kwanzaa has largely avoided com-

Glastonbury thorn is legendary Each Christmas, the small tree or shrub we know as the glastonbury thorn produces small clusters of white flowers.

Except for the spring season, Christmastime is the only time of the year that these flowers bloom.

There is an ancient legend to explain this inter-

esting circumstance. The legend says that when Joseph of Arimathea ended a long pilgrimage in England, he drove his walking stick into the soil of Glastonbury. The staff budded and bore lovely white blossoms, and thereafter bloomed again each year at Christmas.

The smells of gingerbread, cinnamon and cookies baking, stir our memories of Christmases past and remind us of how fortunate we are to be a part of this community.

We’re sowing our best wishes with the hope that they grow into joy and prosperity for the folks that we know!

mercialization. Although widely celebrated, Kwanzaa is still a mystery to much of the public.

Some people mistakenly assume that Kwanzaa provides an alternative to celebrating Christmas.

Although both holidays are celebrated in December, Kwanzaa is not a religious holiday but a cultural one. It is perfectly acceptable to celebrate both, taking religious cues from Christmas and cultural cues from Kwanzaa.

For the last 46 years, African Americans and celebrants across the globe have come together to explore cultural togetherness by participating in Kwanzaa.

Merry Christmas and many thanks for making us feel so welcome here.

Because of this belief, the thorns came to be regarded as holy and pilgrimages were made at Christmastime in the olden days to touch the thorns, as it was believed that they could heal the mind and body and purify evil.

Although modern-day celebrants no longer attribute any special powers to this unusual hawthorn, the glastonbury thorn, still holds appeal for those who know its legend at Christmas time.

Croatia

www.louisdreyfus.ca

Management and staff Wilkie, SK. 306-843-3113

M & N Repair Mike, Darlene and Staff

701-4th Ave. E, Truck Route East, Biggar • 306-948-3996

In Croatia, festivities begin on December 13th with Saint Lucy’s Day. On that day families will plant wheat seeds in a shallow bowl of water, which by Christmas Day will have grown several inches, at which point they are bound together with a trobojnica, a red, blue, and white ribbon.

This wheat grass is used to hold up three candles representing the Trinity.

he ringing we hear, could be Santa’s sleigh Bringing our thanks and warm wishes your way long with our hopes for peace on earth And a season that’s Àlled with joy and mirth. o wherever you’re headed and whatever you do May our glad tidings travel with you!

Thanks for your valued patronage!

Excell Tire operating under Integra Ti Tire A Auto t C Centre t

306-948-3376

George, Ann, Ron, Don, Curtis and Dave

MERRY CHRISTMAS & THANKS FOR YOUR PATRONAGE LYNDA’S HAIR SALON

MEET THE TEAM… LYNDA, RYAN, AND BABS • 306-948-3775

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

Gift returns done right Gift returns are inevitable come the holiday season. No matter how much thought shoppers put into gifts for their loved ones, chances are someone is going to return one of those gifts.

Clothing may not fit or a gift might be a duplicate, while other gifts simply don’t tickle a recipient’s fancy. But returns should not be taken as a personal slight, and men and women can take steps to make the process of returning gifts a lot easier.

Givers There are many ways to facilitate the process of exchanging gifts or making returns, including finding a gift that is less likely to be retuned.

In a survey for the popular department store Kohl’s, researchers found that clothing, items for the home and beauty and fragrance items were the gifts most likely to be returned. So shoppers may want to avoid such gifts this holiday season.

Another way to make

returning or exchanging gifts easier is to make note of the policies governing such returns and exchanges. Such policies are often posted near checkout areas and are outlined on the back of printed receipts. Before embarking on a shopping trip, shoppers can visit a retailer’s Web site and familiarize themselves with its return policies.

If rules are unclear, ask an employee.

Shoppers also can shop at stores that allow consumers ample time to return or exchange gifts. This allows your loved ones to return or exchange a gift when it’s most convenient for them.

Many retailers have recognized the advantages to having more liberal return policies.

A recent survey by ConsumerWorld.org identified which retailers have made changes and which have maintained the same return policies.

Amazon, Best Buy, Costco, Kohl’s, Marshalls, and

TJ Maxx were found to be the retailers with the most generous regular or holiday return deadlines.

Choosing retailers with more lenient return and exchange policies can make things easier on your loved ones.

Shoppers also should include a gift receipt with gifts. This shows recipients that you have their needs in mind and want to make the process of exchanging or returning a gift as easy as possible. Without a receipt, recipients may not get the full value of the item at its time of purchase and only get credited with the current price of the item. Prices are often slashed in the days following the holidays.

Many stores have become more stringent with their return policies in an attempt to avoid fraud. As a result, receipts are essential because without a receipt stores cannot verify purchases or issue a refund or exchange. Certain stores will allow a cer-

Christmas love At this season of the year it’s especially fun to see what little kids do. Watch the reflections of twinkling Christmas lights in the little kid’s shining eyes. See their chubby, dimpled hands lightly touching a strand of shining tinsel, and as they barely get old enough

to read, watch them scrutinize the name tags under the tree. (And if you peep around the door at another time you might just happen to see granddad doing the same!)

A little child -- what a beautiful gift each one is! A little Child -- lent to us so many years ago

-- what a beautiful gift to our world -- and as He grew, His love shone out in greater and greater magnitude to encompass the world and give us love and peace.

May love reign in our hearts this Christmas season as we share with others!

Italy There exists a number of holidays in Italy ramping up to Christmas Day on the 25. Starting on December 8 there is the “Feast of Immaculate Conception”, which is the day on which the

Christmas tree is traditionally put up. This is followed by Saint Lucy’s Day on December 13, on who’s evening the parade of lights occurs. On Christmas Day celebrations take the form of a

love peace of joy blessings the season Wishing you and your family, all the gifts of this magical time of year.

For your friendship and support, we are deeply grateful and look forward to serving you in the year ahead.

Merry Christmas!

Grondin Funeral Services Ltd. 306-948-2669

lunch time feast, followed

by Saint Stephen’s Day on the 26th as opposed to Boxing Day, and is recognized as a public holiday.

tain number of returns without a receipt, but these are carefully recorded and linked to a shopper’s driver’s license number. This makes it easier for retailers to monitor serial returners. Some retailers even refuse returns without receipts.

Recipients Try to make returns during less busy times of the day. Long lines at the customer service counter are commonplace in the days after Christmas.

Check the receipt for the return deadline, and try to wait at least a week or two after the holiday rush is over, eventually visiting the store in the early morning or late evening when crowds typically have thinned.

Returns for online purchases may be challenging. Some retailers allow returns at their brick-and-mortar stores, while others require consumers to mail back the item. Some stores will only offer store credit instead of a cash refund or replacement of funds on a credit card. Online returns may require the help of the person who gave you the gift.

Have A Jolly Holiday Wishing all of you a most Merry Christmas, because serving you has been such a good time for us!

PRAIRIE BRANCHES ~ Board, Management, Staff and Participants It’s time for holiday fun and gathering the family together to share a warm, wonderful yule.

We hope the holidays bring everything you want!

We wish you and yours the best season ever.

Management & Staff

AGI-Envirotank Hwy #4 South, Biggar

306-948-5262

Hope the holidays bring you good cheer, and Àll you with the spirit of the season.

Japan While not a national holiday in Japan, secular celebrations of the holiday are popular, and is generally seen as more of a romantic event for couples to spend time together and exchange gifts. In a bizarre twist, a successful ad campaign in 1970 by KFC has ingrained eating at their resturaunts as a national holiday custom, with locations taking reservations months in advance.

We’re very grateful for your patronage.

Please come and see us soon.

Biggar Liquor Board Store Lana and Cindy

306-948-3575

NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS

There’s no place we’d rather be at Christmas than right here, with all our good friends and neighbours.

For your goodwill, we are truly indebted, and we wish you all a beautiful holiday and a happy and prosperous New Year.

Here’s hoping your holiday season Ànds you laughing all the way!

Merry Christmas and many thanks for your generous support.

Tammy, Monty and staff

Services

Garry, Sharon, and staff • 306-948-5133

Happy New Year & many thanks!

BIGGAR HOTEL

It’s going to be a GOOD YEA Biggar VERY Accounting

10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Ministerial ReÁections brought to you by the Biggar Ministerial Association

A Child Has Been Born For Us

by Rev. Jane Gallagher, Biggar United Church “For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests on his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

(Isaiah 9:6) On Christmas Eve there is magic in the air.

It’s not the make a

wish and wave a magic wand kind of magic; it is more amazing than that. On this night of all nights, our hearts a n d h e a v e n ’s d o o r s, swing wide open. The stars seem brighter this night. You catch yourself listening - could that be the sound of angels singing? Is that the sound of a newborn’s cry, taking its first breath in the cold dark night?

There is something wonderful about Christmas that words can’t describe. It doesn’t matter how old or how young you are, or how many times you have heard the story. This night, we gather with anticipation - waiting for God’s love to come in the flesh and dwell among us. Emmanuel - “God with us.” It is a most amazing and wonderful night indeed! Life is forever changed with the sound of an infant’s cry.

In anticipation of this holiest of nights, people decorate their homes and celebrate traditions that mark this special

evening. Some people travel, while others wait expectantly for loved ones to arrive. There is a feast to prepare; Christmas music playing; trees are decorated and whispers and nods silently given; the TV is playing our f av o u r i t e C h r i s t m a s classics.

The night is not c o m p l e t e , h o w e v e r, without gathering with a wider family - with friends and neighbours, with people we haven’t seen for years and people we have never met before.

We do not have to travel to Bethlehem, but we travel to the church down the street, where others

gather - to hear the story; to feel the wonder; to sing the carols; to offer our prayers; to draw nearer to the stable and greet the very Son of God who comes this night. We gather as people of God, to celebrate and worship, with awe and joy, God’s love that comes to us in a tiny babe. We gather, to witness and marvel, at God’s love that comes to dwell with us.

This night is not complete, without sharing the joy and wonder with others who gather from near and far. We gather, to hear not only a story from long ago, but a story that continues to unfold in our lives and our world today. We come expectant, open, wondereyed and attentively

listening, to the whisper of love drawing us to the Word that came in human flesh. We come with anticipation, once again opening our hearts anew to God’s love being born and becoming manifest in the here and now. A new day dawns in our lives and world.

Hope abounds, joy is contagious, peace is so close we can feel it.

For this night, and for all time, a child has come; a child is born for us. God’s love comes and dwells among us, let us open our hearts once again, to welcome the Christ child into our lives, and may that love find a place to dwell and grow in all of us, each and every day.

The Spirit of Christmas May the peace and joy of this holiday season be with you always

Friends Make The Season Special Thank you for the opportunity to serve you this year and warm wishes for holidays and a Happy New Year!!

Biggar Veterinary Clinic Dr. M. O. Isinger and family, Paulette Ireland-Hegland

Duperow Co-op Management and staff

by Father Michel Bedard St. Gabriel Roman Catholic Church, Biggar Our Lady of Fatima, Lands I once had the experience of being in a church basement with no windows and the power went off. It seemed to me that I would never find the doorway to light.

I longed for light - I wondered which direction I should take. I walked carefully less I would trip over something. Finally light - I was safe. All fear was gone.

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light . . . on them

light has shone.” Isaiah 9:2 and following.

During Advent we pray Come Lord Jesus. We want your light in our family, our community, our parish - we want your light deep inside each one of us.

Jesus was born many years ago. He wishes to be born in us that we may present Him to others.

I take this opportunity to wish each of you who have welcomed me so warmly - a holy and happy Advent and Christmas season. May God bless you abundantly in 2014 and always.

Happy Holidays!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11

PALS in Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love

by Pastor Mark Kleiner, Presbyterians, Anglicans, and Lutherans in Service (PALS) Dear God, as we prepare in our homes and in our church for the coming of our Saviour, your Son, Jesus Christ, help us each put our lives in such good order that we may be truly ready for him.

Fill us with thankfulness that you care about us, that you loved the world so much that you gave your only Son to us. And bring us to Christmas confident of your power to work miracles - even

today; to change lives even ours. Amen.

When I was growing up, my family said that prayer together during family devotions in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

The part of the prayer that has really stuck with me over the years is that last line, the one asking God to give us confidence in God’s “power to work miracles - even today; to change lives - even ours.”

As we reflect on the story of Jesus’ birth in a far off place where most

of us will never visit; as we hear of angels appearing to shepherds, and about Magi (or ‘wise men’, as they are often called) traveling by star (and not OnStar), we might feel as if we have dropped through a portal into an alternate universe.

But for all the exotic weirdness to parts of the Christmas story, its message is both simple and profound: that God so loved the world that God gave God’s only Son to us, so that we might trade in a life ruled by

death for one ruled by the Giver of Life.

This message is as real for us as it was for the shepherds to whom the angels appeared that night so long, long ago in Bethlehem. It is a message of God’s overwhelming love for us, and God’s amazing power to work miracles - even today; and to change lives even ours.

I pray that you may have confidence in God’s miracle-working power this Christmas season.

As the line goes, ‘Expect a miracle.’ The mir-

acle all of this is leading us towards is the miracle of God raising Jesus from the dead on Easter morning. It might seem incongruous to speak of death in a season centered on a baby’s birth, and yet, as we look more closely at the shepherds and Magi in celebrating the baby Jesus’ birth, a jealous king plots to have Jesus killed, and orders the slaughter of all boys two years and under in that region.

But death will not have the last word anymore - not for those boys,

their loved ones, or for us . . . because as for ancient Israel, so for us too: “The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land where death casts its shadow, light will shine . . . For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:2-3; 6-7).

Hope, peace, j o y, and love.

they always received gifts and so that became our tradition.

A few years later, I conspired with a neighbour that they bring us a tree from their land up north when they would bring themselves a tree and so we became like other people in that we had a decorated tree from then on. How-

ever, at our house, in the morning we always found the gifts at our places at the table.

All this family tradition is wonderful and yet the most wonderful of all is when we discover that Christmas is not just a holiday and a gifting time for families, but that it is of our Heavenly Father

having given us the gift of His Son Jesus Christ.

We commemorate this at this season, however the gift goes on and on in the possibility of us having a relationship with Jesus Christ. We can walk each day of our life knowing the presence of God with us.

Christmas greeting the frosty windows but all was so wonderful.

Then at home Father said that we needed to set out our plates.

Set out our plates? At bed time? This seemed so strange. We never sat down at the table to have a meal at bedtime! What would this be? But Father just smiled and said that it was Christmas. So we obeyed and set out our plates. In the morning as we woke and came to the breakfast table, we were shocked because in each plate was a Christmas gift. Father and Mother said that is how

Jesus came as God’s message to you!

by Pastor Terry Wicks, Biggar Associated Gospel Church From the beginning of time God has desired to communicate to the people He created in His own image - you and me.

Creation itself is a message that there is a Creator who wants to relate to, and provide for His creation. The Scriptures were inspired

by God’s Spirit to reveal God to us. Scripture records that God spoke directly to people in ancient times. He spoke to Adam and Eve, to Noah, to Abraham, to Samuel, and others, with messages about His plans for their lives.

He also sent angels with messages througho u t h i s t o r y, a n d H e gave messages to chosen prophets to guide people in His righteous ways. He even spoke to people like Jacob, and his favourite son Joseph,

in dreams.

Finally, though, God has spoken through His Son, Jesus (Hebrews 1:1-3). Jesus came from God to communicate to any who would listen, His message of grace and truth, of love and salvation, and of judgment for sinners.

Jesus came as God’s Word of life to a needy world. God hadn’t spoken to His people for 400 years. The last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, had prophesized that a messenger (John the Baptist), would come to prepare the way for the coming of Messiah, whom God had promised through the messages of prophets such as Isaish, Micah, and Zechariah.

When Jesus lived on earth, He revealed God’s divine wisdom as a boy growing up in Nazareth (Luke 2:52), and through His life and words as He ministered to people (1 Cornithians 1:30).

His walk, or lifestyle, was holy, blameless, and unstained by sin, and those who saw and heard Him heard and saw the character God declared (Hebrews 7:26; 1 John 1:1-5).

Jesus was also God’s message in the witness of His works. He declared that He had come to do the works His Father sent Him to finish (John 5:36; 9:3-4), and He finished them (John 17:4). He accomplished God’s loving works of salvation for mankind by dying on the cross, bearing the penalty and condemnation for all our sins, and there He cried, “It is finished!” (John 19:30).

This Christmas, think of Jesus’ coming to earth as God’s message to you - a message of His peace and good will, of His grace and truth, and of His love and plan of salvation for you to personally embrace by faith.

Christmas Season Services ST. GABRIEL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Biggar ~

The Biggar and District Ministerial Association wishes you all the joy and blessings of the Christmas Season.

OUR LADY OF FATIMA ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Landis ~

quiet and too fast. There as candlelight which made everything extra special. It also helped me not to see the big crowd of faces looking at me. And after the recitations and all the Carol singing, there was the candy bag. A whole bag of candies: soft and hard, all shapes and of peanuts, all my own!

Life was so good and so exciting! Mother and Father and my brother were all so happy too.

We were busy with our little hands in our candy bags. We drove home in our old Mercury car, a cold car with cold seats,

SUN., DEC. 22… 11 a.m., Mass TUES., DEC. 24…

8:30 p.m. - Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 29… 11 a.m., Mass WED., JAN. 1… 11 a.m., New Year’s Day Mass

SUN., DEC. 22… 9 a.m., Mass TUES., DEC. 24…

6:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 29… 9 a.m. Mass WED., JAN. 1… 9 a.m. New Year’s Day Mass

BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH ~

PERDUE UNITED CHURCH ~

SUN., DEC. 15…11 a.m., Service of Christmas Music and White Gift Sunday, (proceeds to the Secret Santa program) SUN., DEC. 22… 11 a.m.

TUES., DEC. 24…

7:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Service No worship service December 29 SUN., JAN. 5, 11 a.m., regular worship service

BIGGAR ASSOCIATED GOSPEL CHURCH ~ SUN., DEC. 22… 10:50 a.m., Children’s Christmas Concert SUN. DEC. 29…10:50 a.m., Worship Service with Communion PALS COMMUNITY CHURCH ~ SUN., DEC. 15… Special day of Christmas Celebration at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 5:30 p.m., ham and turkey dinner. a freewill offering will be collectd for those in need this Christmas season… 7 p.m., Service of Lessons and Carols with children and youth Christmas Pageant. After service, a visit from Santa Claus with coffee and dainties. (NOTE: no morning service).

SUN. DEC. 22…

10:30 a.m., Fourth Sunday of Advent Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 10:30 a.m.

TUES., DEC. 24: Early Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 7 p.m.; Late Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 9:30 p.m.

WED., DEC. 25… 10:30 a.m., Worship at Redeemer Lutheran Church SUN., DEC. 29: First Sunday of Christmas Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 10:30 a.m.

SUN. DEC. 15… 9:30 a.m., White Gift Sunday, gifts to Quint Lodge (young men ages 15-20) SUN., DEC. 22… 9:30 a.m., Service of Carols TUES., DEC. 24…

7 p.m., Christmas Eve Service No services December 29 & month of January.

ASQUITH UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 15… 11 a.m., White Gift Sunday, gifts to Secret Santa SUN., DEC. 23… 11 a.m., Service of Carols TUES., DEC. 24…Christmas Eve Service No services December 19 & month of January.

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST ~ SAT. DEC. 21…Christmas Program, 11 a.m. at Biggar New Horizons Worship Service… SATURDAYS, 11 a.m.

Bible Study… SUNDAYS, 10 a.m.

O COME LET US ADORE HIM!

Reverend Bev Dyck, Biggar Church of God A child’s world is in the moment, full of awe and new things. Christmas is one of the big wonders for a child.

For me, I remember the magic unfolding in this way. We were at the church for the Christmas Eve service. It was both frightening and wonderful. We had to recite a little verse. I remember having a little foil covered letter that I needed to hold up as I said my little verse.

Somehow the adult in charge would always frown and say it was too

12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Take the hassle out of gift returns The magic of the holiday season is hard to replicate. Gatherings with friends and family members can put smiles on many people’s faces, especially for those people who only see their loved ones once a year.

But the smiles and laughter may dim when faced with the prospect of returning unwanted gifts.

Few people haven’t had to return a holiday gift once or twice in their lifetimes.

In fact, a survey from Consumer Reports indicates that 1 in 5 will return a holiday present this year, while retail merchants expect about 10 per cent

of all holiday purchases to be returned.

Part of the difficulty of returning items is a result of stores cracking down on merchandise fraud. While there are scores of honest customers simply looking to exchange that paw print set of pajamas for something a little more stylish, there are plenty others who are interested in taking advantage of the holiday season to return items that may have been used, such as a cocktail dress that livened up Christmas festivities just as much as the spiked egg nog, only to be returned December 26.

TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AT THE HOLIDAYS Christmas is our favourite time of year because it gives us the opportunity to express our gratitude for the good fortune of serving people like you.

1-800-529-9958 www.kramerauction.com

With the desire to curtail fraud, retailers have tightened the reigns on return policies.

Keeping this in mind and being prepared for a conversation with a store’s customer service employee can make the return process go more smoothly. * Know the store’s return policy. It pays to go online or call the store to find out about its specific return policy.

Being armed with this

knowledge could help you avoid a trip to the store and waiting in line only to be turned away.

Return policies may vary depending on the item being returned, so be sure to check about the item you have. Requirements often are more stringent on electronics. * Use a receipt whenever possible. Receipts speed up the return process considerably. Whether it is the actual receipt or a gift receipt, this small slip

of paper is evidence that the item being returned actually was purchased at the particular store on a particular date. * Bring identification.

Stores will sometimes honour a return for store credit when you present your driver’s license.

Keep in mind that there may be a strict limit on how many items you can return without a receipt, and many stores keep track of this information by utilizing the unique

scan code on your license.

If you are a serial returner, you may find your efforts are for naught. * Keep boxes closed.

Restocking fees are charges exacted for items returned that have been opened. Generally they are applied to electronics and appliances -- sometimes 15 to 30 per cent of the total purchase price.

To get the most value for your return, be sure to keep the box closed.

before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child

with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold and frankincense, and myrrh.”

Follow the star Everyone is familiar with the story of the Magi who brought gifts to the Infant Jesus, but we actually know very little about them.

Although they were not given names in the Gospel narrative of St. Matthew, they were “wise men” who sought Jesus by following a star.

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem.

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

“Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. “. . . they departed; and lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went

Boost holiday spirits with holiday ‘spirits’ The holiday season is a festive time of year when opportunities to entertain abound. The search may be on for the ideal food and beverage recipes to tie into the holiday season.

Although just about any drink can be given

a holiday spin with the right name (think Merry Martinis), you may want to come up with a theme drink that fits with your particular party. Explore these ideas for delicious and festive alcoholic and nonalcoholic options.

Another opportunity to tell you how much we appreciate your support.

Happy Holidays!

~ Board and staff ~

t t With best wishes during this holiday season and gratitude to the best bunch of folks we know - our customers!

Merry Christmas!

With thanks and warm wishes from all of us to all of you.

Phillips Electric 306-882-2691

Biggar • 306-948-5393 or 1-306-221-6888 Dave and staff

White Christmas Hot Chocolate 3 cups light cream or halfand-half 3/4 cup vanilla candy melts, chopped 1 teaspoon vanilla Pinch of ground cinnamon 1 ounce Irish cream liqueur Combine 1 cup of the cream with the candy in a saucepan. Melt over low heat, being careful not to burn. Add the remaining cream, vanilla and cinnamon until everything is heated. Add the liqueur and stir. Garnish with more cinnamon. Serve warm.

The Candy Cane 1 ounce vodka 1 ounce peppermint schnapps 1/2 ounce heavy cream Dash of grenadine for color Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Pour into glasses filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a candy cane.

Sweet Santa Shots 1 ounce Midori liqueur 1/2 ounce grenadine syrup Carefully layer the grenadine syrup and the Midori liqueur in a shot glass to have red and green layers.

Holiday Sparkle 2 ounces apple cider 1 ounce club soda Cinnamon stick Mix cider with club soda and serve in a tall glass with a cinnamon stick garnish. A refreshing and nonalcoholic drink option.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 13

The history and traditions of Boxing Day Many countries celebrate Boxing Day on December 26. Those outside of these countries may be unaware as to the meaning behind the holiday and how its traditions originated.

Boxing Day is celebrated by those in countries that were once part of the British empire, which includes Canada. As a federal holiday, post offices and banks are closed.

Schools also are closed as part of winter vacations.

Despite being a federal holiday, Boxing Day is not

observed in the same way in all provinces and territories. Also, it is not an official holiday in Quebec.

Depending on the area, stores may be open or closed. Some people use the opportunity to take part in post-Christmas sales or make returns.

Many stores run Boxing Week sales the full week through New Year’s Day. Some shoppers have been known to camp outside of stores to take advantage of these price cuts, much in the way Americans

D.I.Y. easy and edible holiday centerpiece 1. Eye-candy canes! Fill the base of any clear vase with a choice of colourful, miniature Christmas ornaments and add four to five of huge Old-Fashioned Handcrafted Candy Canes around the rim.

Round out the centerpiece with a few sprigs of greenery and ornamental gold berries.

2. Tiers of joy! Use a tiered cake stand to display layers of eye-catching treats like a Decadent Soft Chocolate Chip Cookie or the new Sea Salt & Toffee Chocolate Squares so that guests can grab a quick nibble.

3. Gingerbread mania! Bake a batch of cheerful gingerbread cookies complete with icing and festive red and green candies for decorating. Arrange a neat layer of fir branches or artificial snow on a silver tray or serving platter

and nestle gingerbread men and a few silver ornaments and red berries on top.

4. Regal red velvet! Red Velvet Cake Baking Mix produces a batch of incredibly festive looking cupcakes. Placing them on a cake stand with a clear dome lid to turn them into a grand centerpiece! Simply arrange the red and white cupcakes neatly on the stand with a few sprigs of holly for pops of green colour. Tie a festive bow around the base of the stand or the handle of the dome.

5. Happy holiday harvest! Fill a basket with a holiday-inspired bounty of clementines, cranberries, walnuts (in-shell), and pomegranates. Complement the arrangement with a few gold-coloured ornaments and add rustic accents like branches, greenery or pinecones.

might wait in the wee hours of the morning for Black Friday deals.

The etymology of the name Boxing Day is unclear, but some historians surmise that it is tied to the European tradition of giving gifts to the needy and those in service positions, as was the case during the Middle Ages.

In the United Kingdom, it also became tradition that the day after Christmas employers would gift their servants with boxes of food leftovers from the holidays or present monetary gifts. The servants were allowed to take the day off to spend it with their families after having worked Christmas.

Other ideas tie the tradition to the Feast of Saint Stephen, which also takes place on December 26.

Metal boxes, into which people could put donations for the needy, were left outside of churches.

Despite what the name may suggest, the sport of boxing has nothing to do with the holiday. How-

Christmas is sharing Children can have the feeling of achievement if long before the holidays they can start a savings. As Christmas approaches, the children can learn to balance the Christmas budget by not overspending, by keeping within their limits.

True giving hurts just a tid bit. To see his own savings swindle as he gives to others is true giving. His giving helps him become less selfish. Also,

TOP IT OFF with Cheer!

It’s the holiday season and we’re all aglow As we recall all the good folks that we’ve come to know!

Season’s Greetings!

ever, with Canadians and others having the day off from work, they may be able to tune into a fight on television and establish a new tradition. There are other ways people can create their own Boxing Day traditions. Here are a few ideas.

• Collect food or clothing donations from neighbors and deliver them to a shelter or soup kitchen.

• Volunteer to help at a hospital, animal shelter or school when it reopens.

• Encourage children to invite their friends over and curl up with a good movie and some popcorn.

• If you are a business owner, call employees and personally thank them for their time of service.

• Have a fun, family game night.

• Decorate the house with boxes of all shapes and sizes.

• Gather holiday gift boxes and prepare them for the recycling bin.

• Make a charitable donation to your preferred organization.

WITH WARM WISHES AND

HEARTFELT THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. IT’S BEEN A PLEASURE SERVING YOU THIS YEAR!

Troy, y Kerryy and everyone y at…

A world of thanks and best wishes to our neighbours, customers and friends.We feel fortunate to serve great folk like you!

306-948-2643 • Biggar

The Lord is come: let earth receive her King!

Let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing.

– Joy to the World God bless you and your family this holiday season. Thanks for your support this past year, and we’re looking forward to serving you in the New Year

Biggar Flower & Gift Shop Ed and Evonne • 306-948-2616

children can be taught to receive joy from giving out their own savings to charities.

Planning allowances and projects by which the children can save for their own Christmas shopping can be one of the greatest gifts a parent can give his child -- for truly unselfishness brings the greatest joy throughout life -- from the toddler to the tottery!

Filled With Our Gratitude We’re hoping your holiday season is an equal mix of harmony and joy. For your goodwill and trust, please accept a generous measure of our sincere gratitude.

L I V E

W I T H

PHARMASAVE®

Bear Hills RDC Board and staff

306-948-2295

W E L L

306-237-7671

Management and staff 215 Main St., Biggar • 306-948-3315

Merry Christmas

14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

... Is the chance to let you know how grateful we are for your friendship and support as we wish you all a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy New Year.

Oli

It’s been a gift for us serving folks like you.

Thanks!

WEASIE’S Gourmet Blends Louise and staff 211 Main St, Big Biggar • 306-948-1795

With Our Thanks for Your Business!

Happy Holidays to our customers, neighbours, associates and friends at this festive occasion.

We appreciate you hanging in there with us!

Royal Bank

~ Biggar Branch staff ~

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Out-of-the-box themes for your holiday party Parties are an integral part of the holiday season, when friends and family gather to celebrate and give thanks. For holiday hosts, parties are a great opportunity to make the season even more festive with an event that guests won’t soon forget. The following are just a few themes to make your holiday party as memorable as it is merry.

• Christmas sweater party: Christmas sweater parties have grown in popularity over the last decade, when revelers have tried to outdo one another with the most outrageous holiday-themed sweater.

Give prizes for the most outlandish sweater and let guests know early on so they can begin their hunt for a holiday sweater that’s so ugly or outrageous you can’t help but love it.

• Christmas costume party: Costume parties aren’t just for Halloween.

This holiday season, consider making your holiday bash a costume p a r t y, e n c o u r a g i n g guests to dress up as their favorite characters from holiday tales like “Frosty the Snowman,” “A Christmas Carol” or any of the host of beloved holiday legends.

• Caribbean Christmas: The weather come the holiday season may be the one thing to put a damper on the festivities. To combat blue feelings from potentially inclement w e a t h e r, c o n s i d e r a Caribbean theme for

your holiday party this season. Rather than wearing sweaters and long pants, wear beach attire and give the party a touch of the Caribbean. Outfi t your home in beach decor and serve food and drinks reminiscent of the Caribbean instead of more traditional holiday fare like eggnog and gingerbread cookies.

• Film festival: Holiday movies are another tradition of the season, so why not invite friends and family over for a holiday film marathon?

Include classics like

“It’s a Wonderful Life” a n d “A C h r i s t m a s Story” and encourage guests to submit their own favorites for consideration.

• Christmas karaoke: For those who love to belt out their favorite holiday tunes, consider throwing a Christmas karaoke party that allows guests to perform their own renditions of their favorite Christmas carols. Purchase a home karaoke set and ask guests in advance of the party if there are any particular songs they’d like to perform.

Did you know?

If you are welcoming a new dog to the family but have yet to pick a name, you might want to consider “Max.” Max has been a popular name for male dogs in the United States, Canada,

the United Kingdom and Australia on and off for years, many times topping the list as the most popular male dog name. Although names t h a t d e s c r i b e d d o g ’s traits, such as Spotty

or Dusty, were popular more than 50 years ago, today’s dogs (and cats) have decidedly human n a m e s. D o g s n a m e d Max have starred in movies (think Max in “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,”) and have also broken records. A dog named Max lived to be the oldest dog at age 26. Max has been a name given to pampered Yorkies as well as roughand-tumble mutts. If Max is not the name for you, Buddy, Jake and Rocky are a few of the other popular dog names.

Ireland Being the longest celebration on the calender year in Ireland, Christmas is celebrated through December 24th to January 6th. Santa Clause is generally known as Santy or “Daidi na Nollag” in Ireland, and having “Nollaig chridheil agus Blindhna mhath ur!” as a common yule time greating.

Joyous Greetings To all our good friends, let us extend our sincere thanks and warm wishes for a very, merry holiday season.

United Kingdom Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and every happiness in the New Year.

Rosetown - Biggar - Elrose Outlook - Davidson - Central Butte

34 years of serving Biggar and area 1979-2013

Carter Plumbing & Heating

Water Heaters, Softeners, Pumps, Furnaces, Underground Sprinklers, Air-conditioning

306-948-2624

Christmas decorations in the UK generally start being set up in early November, and are often left up until early January. Instead of leaving a serving of milk and cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve, families leave out mince pies and sherry for Father Christmas, as well as a plate of carrots for his reindeer.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

Easy ways to be ‘green’ for the holidays While the holiday season is a time of joy, giving and religious reflection, it also can be a time of excess.

Holiday parties, meals brimming with more food than the average person can consume, wrapping paper tossed aside after minimal usage, and shoppers venturing for miles in cars in search of presents can all prove wasteful.

For the environmentally conscious, the holiday season is a great opportunity to put your ideals to use.

Although it may seem like a challenging task, going green for the holidays is easier than you might think.

• Get a live Christmas tree. Christmas trees are planted expressly for the

purpose of being cut down and turned into holiday decor. Responsible tree farms will plant many more trees than is needed for the purpose of Christmas trees.

Be a good steward for the environment and recycle your tree once the holidays are over. Some recycling centers will pick them up for free or a small fee.

• Consider giving food as a gift. Food is consumable, doesn’t take up space, and locally grown food does not require shipping or wasteful packaging. It’s an ideal gift for those who already have everything.

• Cut back on holiday decor. Most people love showcasing their Christmas spirit with decorations. However, many

Ways to reuse Christmas cards As you pack away the holiday decorations after the new year, it’s tempting to simply toss all the Christmas cards you received into the recycling bin.

Instead, read through those greeting cards one more time and put them in a box. Over the summer or in fall, pull out the cards and use them in the following creative ways.

Merry Markers. For beautiful bookmarks or gift tags, reach for the scissors and cut out images or words. Use a hole punch, then tie on a tassel. These homemade bookmarks make special stocking stuffers.

Pretty as a Picture.

Framed photos of holiday scenes are a great way to liven up you decor at Christmastime, but they often can be costly. An easy and inexpensive alternative is to frame images from greetings cards. Use a traditional photo frame as a tabletop display. For an eyecatching wall hanging, purchase a larger matted frame.

Seasonal Stationery.

The front, inside and even back of Christmas cards can have pretty images that would work well as postcards, note cards and recipe cards. (BE sure to check with your local post office regarding postcard size restrictions.)

A Special Christmas Wish

decorative products are produced overseas and shipped over to North America on large vessels that require a lot of fuel.

Think about reducing your decorations or replacing plastic and metal decorations for all-natural options. Branches of holly or twigs tied with ribbon to form a natural wreath are just as decorative as store-bought plastic decorations.

• Don’t leave lights on for extended periods of time. Homes and businesses bedecked in holiday lights are staples of the season. However, extra lights, inflatable lawn Santas and other accessories consume substantial amounts of energy. Instead of leaving lights and other decorative items running for hours each night, turn them off after a little while to save energy.

• Donate money in lieu of gifts. Choose environmentally responsible charities and donate funds to their efforts in the name of people who do not need another package of pajamas.

• Use decomposable shipping peanuts. Shipping peanuts are environmentally friendly packing products that are made from cornstarch. When they come in contact with water, they dissolve -- making for easy clean-up and less trash.

• Donate unused gifts.

Nearly everyone gets an unwanted gift come the holiday season. Instead of putting items in the trash or taking them back to the store, donate gifts you’ll never use to a charity or a thrift shop.

• Wrap gifts with wrapping paper alternatives. Wrapping paper is a luxury item and one that tends to be wasteful. There are many items around the house that can be recycled into decorative gift wrap. Sew scraps of fabric together for a patchwork bag or use glossy photos from a fashion magazine to papier mache a box. When you think creatively, you’re bound to come up with some very usable and ecofriendly ideas.

White dove decorations Add pretty, two-dimensional, white doves to your Christmas decor by drawing the shape of a dove in white cardboard.

Cut the dove out. Glue a sequin or pretty button on for an eye. Pretty feathers can be glued on as a tail or wings in the white cardboard and cut them out. Cut a slot in the upper half of the dove’s body. Insert the wings in

this slot. Sit them on the Christmas tree’s limbs or other greenery, or hang them by inserting string at a balance point.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15

Randy Weekes, M.L.A. Biggar Constituency 306-948-4880, toll free 1-877-948-4880 Box 1413, 106-3rd Avenue West, Biggar

Christmas has always meant reÁecting upon one’s blessings.

We wish much happiness to all who bestowed good fortune upon us this year. God bless you all!

Busse Law Professional Corporation Teena, Heather, Diane Bonnie, Larry and Stuart

Spring into the holiday season with health, happiness and plenty of cheer.

Season’s Greetings!

Here’s hoping you enjoy generous portions of love and laughter with family and friends for the main course of your Christmas season!

Hannigan·s Hamburgers & Pizza

306-948-3335 • Main Street, Biggar

1st Avenue Collision Center Ltd. 306-948-3356 Jeff, Cindy, and Dan

May your season be blessed with joy and success.

Keelar Contracting Ltd. Larry, Colleen family and staff

306-237-9127

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Do’s and don’ts of holiday shopping

May you find everything you want under the tree, and in your heart this holiday season.

For the gift of your friendship, we are sincerely grateful.

Ivan and Bernice Young and Paul Grodnick 306-948-3381

May your holidays be Àlled with seasonal joy, old-fashioned traditions, and the blessings of family and friends.

Thank you for shopping with us. We look forward to your continued patronage with much appreciation.

Shirley, Jason and staff •

306-948-3337

Thanks to sales featuring heavily discounted items, millions of people wait to start their holiday shopping until the season hits full swing. But in spite of such bargains, overextending budgets during the holiday season is too tempting for many shoppers to resist. However, shoppers need not risk financial peril if they shop smartly and heed some dos and don’ts of holiday shopping.

• Do set a budget.

Establish what you can

afford to spend on gifts and other seasonal trimmings early on. The National Retail Federation estimates that the average consumer will spend around $700 come the holiday season. But not every person needs to be a big spender. The “buy now, pay later” mentality that credit cards offer lands many shoppers in trouble, a sticky situation many only notice once the first bill comes due. If you cannot afford to pay your entire credit card balance off

Turkey and Brie Puff Pastry Bites Using a butter puff pastry is the host or hostess’s best friend. Try this delectable nibble for your next party and your guests will be coming back for more.

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 22 minutes Ingredients 1/2 cup puff pastry, thawed but still cold 5 oz (150 g) leftover roast turkey breast, finely diced 3 tbsp (45 mL) mayonnaise 1 pkg (200 g) Double Cream Brie, rind removed and cheese cut into 24 equal pieces 2 tbsp (25 mL) Dijon mustard 1 tbsp (15 mL) honey 24 fresh parsley leaves Instructions Preheat oven to 425˚F (220˚C).

Place puff pastry on

work surface. Roll pastry out in one direction to form a rectangle; cut into 24 equal pieces. Press each piece into the cups of a 24-cup mini muffin pan, allowing some overhang.

Freeze for 10 minutes.

In small bowl, stir together turkey and mayonnaise. Remove muffin pan from freezer; divide turkey mixture among the cups. Top each with a piece of Brie, pressing down slightly.

Bake in centre of oven for 20 to 22 minutes or until pastry is golden on bottom and cheese is melted and starting to brown.

Meanwhile, in small bowl, stir together Dijon and honey. Transfer pastry bites to a long platter; drizzle Dijon mixture over top and garnish with parsley leaves.

Makes 24 servings

once the bill arrives, you face steep interest charges that can quickly add up. Instead, pick a set spending limit and keep to it no matter how tempting it may seem to overspend with a credit card.

• Don’t be fooled by false sales. Retailers understand that a good advertised deal lures shoppers into their stores. As a result, some retailers mark up the cost of certain items in order to slash the prices for holiday sales. Even if you are saving the assumed 50 to 60 percent, the final cost of the item still may be higher than normal. Comparison shop and do your research so you don’t fall victim to clever pricing.

• Do schedule time for shopping. Hectic schedules sometimes result in last-minute shopping that leads to impulse p u r ch a s e s. S ch e d u l e some distraction-free time for your holiday shopping so you’re less likely to rush into purchases before thinking them through.

• Don’t double buy.

Some shoppers use the holidays as an excuse to buy more for themselves than the people on their lists. While it’s tempting to treat yourself come the holiday season, this is a great and quick way to deplete your budget.

If you plan on using holiday deals to supplement your own wardrobe or household needs, reduce your spending the rest of the year and save money for year-end purchases.

• Do collect coupons and look for purchasing incentives. Comparison shopping not only helps you get the best price, but also it can shed light on coupons, shipping discounts and other incentives that lower the overall cost of products. Search online for Web sites that publish coupons and codes for online discounts, including free shipping.

Join a store’s marketing list and receive emails with deals sent directly to your inbox.

• Don’t be afraid to delay some purchases if need be. If hosting a post-holiday gathering where gifts will be exchanged, it’s perfectly acceptable to delay buying those gifts until after Christmas or Chanukah, when many items can be found at even lower prices. Many stores reduce prices on merchandise come December 26, so you can wait until after the holidays to shop for items that will be exchanged with distant friends and relatives.

This enables you to save more money and use any received gift cards toward shopping.

• Do keep a level head.

Some people forget the true meaning of the season is spending time with loved ones. Getting swept away by shopping and worrying about deadlines can make the season less enjoyable.

Don’t allow the stress of holiday shopping to compromise an otherwise joyous time of year.

Friends like you are just our style.

Happy Holidays from all of us to all of you. Thanks for stopping by this past year.

Season’s Greetings!!!

Here’s hoping your holiday season turns out to be a real classic. May it be filled with good old-fashioned days of friendship, love and laughter.

We thank you for blessing us with your visits this past year. Seeing customers like you is always a treat.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!

216 Main St., Biggar Sandy, Larry, Linda and Vickie

We’re Àlled with warm wishes and lots of good cheer For all the kind people we’ve served this past year.

Thanks, friends!

Westwinds Motor Hotel

306-948-4855

PERDUE AGENCIES LTD.

Dayna,Trent and staff

306-237-4373

“Experience the Westwinds Difference” 306-948-3301

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17

Give your Christmas a country feel Christmas decorations can range from grandiose lighting displays to more subtle adornments. Some families may prefer more traditional holiday decor, while others might like the look of modern trimmings.

Holiday decorations can also be used to create an atmosphere remi-

niscent of a certain type of locale, giving a home a holiday in the city vibe or a more rustic feel.

For those who prefer a rustic look reminiscent of a country Christmas, consider the following tips.

• Start with the tree.

The Christmas tree is the center of many a home’s holiday decor,

A tree to eat Let the kids have fun helping to make this tree cake.

1 can (1lb., 5 oz.) vanilla frosting; tint 1/2 cup frosting yellow; 3/4 cup red, and 1/34 cups green.

15 Hostess Twinkies (registered trademark of Continental Baking Company); frost 13 cakes green and roll in tinted coconut. Frost 2 cakes red. Place the red cakes horizontally, one on top of the other (at the bottom center of a 16x19 inch tray) for the tree base.

Stack two green cakes perpendicular to the base, then place one green cake on top of the two

existing vertical cakes -this forms the trunk.

Diagonally arrange five cakes on either side of the trunk.

Cut a cupcake into a star shape; frost it yellow and place on top of the tree. Place yellow, spice candy sticks at the tip of each star point.

Use different lengths of cherry licorice (1 pkg.

3 oz.) to trim the tree.

Arrange 1 pkg. (8 oz.) of spice drops on branches. Place one peppermint starlite candy (7 oz. pkg.) at the tip of each branch.

(Attach decoration with extra frosting.) Peppermint candies and spice sticks decorate the red base.

Norway The major day of celebration in Norway is December 24th, though legally it is treated as a regular workday until 4 p.m.

Santa is known as Julenissen, and will sometimes pay families a visit during the day, though he has still been known to make his night time visits to drop off presents if he can’t make it in the day.

and those who want to create a country Christmas can start with their tree. Instead of traditional holiday lights, choose lights that look like candles while adorning the tree with wooden ornaments and strands of popcorn.

• Forgo traditional wrapping paper. Instead of flashy, storebought wrapping paper, wrap presents in brown paper and put presents under the tree as early as possible. Instead of store-bought gift tags, create your own and attach a candy cane or another candy to the gift.

• Think nature with decorations. Items gathered from nature can give a home a rustic appeal during the holidays. Hang a homemade wreath on the front door and include pine cones and clippings from evergreen trees when adding decorative accents around the house. Tuck a few decorative woven baskets in corners to further emphasize a rustic look.

• Create homemade ornaments. Homemade ornaments can also give a home a more rustic look come the holiday season. Spend an afternoon creating holiday crafts with the kids and use these instead of store-bought ornaments.

For those who are especially gifted craftsmen, put your woodworking skills to the test to create decorative wooden stockings that, if not functional, can be replaced with more traditional stockings come Christmas Eve. • Don’t forget the music. Another way to create a country Christmas is to play country Christmas albums instead of classical or more traditional Christmas records. Nearly every country music star of the past and present has recorded a Christmas song or album, so create a master playlist of country Christmas songs on your digital music player and play it throughout the season to set the holiday mood in your household.

It’s Been A Pleasure Serving You! Jingle bell party game “It” is in the centre of the circle of players, his eyes closed and counting to 10, while a small bell is passed around the circle.

After “It” counts to 10, he quickly tries to see who has the bell.

The players try to pass the bell as quietly as possible. If “It” catches the person with the bell, they change places.

FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS We’d like to extend our warm wishes and gratitude to all our kind neighbours this holiday season.

It’s been a privilege and a pleasure serving you.

McNulty’s Mobile Seed Wayne, Dorothy, Kenneth and Megan

306-948-5678

and Happy New Year

All of us here are ho...ho...hoping your holiday delivers a bundle of fun!

We really appreciate all the good times we’ve shared with you this past year.

Village of Perdue Mayor Dave Miller, Council, and staff

Happy holidays and many thanks for your kind patronage this past year.

NCM Home Maintenance Nick Maguire 306-948-4558

Sending Our Best at the Holidays Here’s hoping your holiday delivers a bundle of joy and good cheer.

We’d like to chime in with our best wishes and thanks.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Fe\ Jkfg ?Xi[nXi\

Parrish & Heimbecker Limited Hanover Junction Biggar, Sask.

Jean, Emil, Heather, Collette Tammy and Dave

306-948-5626

www.parrishandheimbecker.com

306-948-1990

Christmas is a time for renewing our faith — in God, in ourselves and in our fellow man. For your faith in us we are ever so grateful and we look forward to your continued friendship. Happy Holidays!

E-Kay Enterprises

George and Joan Ekman, Leroy and Tracy Ekman & Staff

306-948-2544

18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Save up all year to enjoy a debt-free holiday season May you and yours revel in the splendor of the season.

R.M. of Biggar #347 Council and staff 306-948-2422

MERRY CHRISTMAS The wreaths and the trees and the parties Aren’t what we need to convey It’s the birth of our Saviour, Jesus The real reason for this holiday.

We wish to thank our loyal customers, and wish you the best in 2014.

Biggar Electrical Services 306-948-5291

The holiday season is synonymous with many things, including spending. Opening a Christmas Club account is one way shoppers exercise some financial savvy during the holiday season.

According to survey from the American Research Group, the average family spends between $700 and $900 on Christmas gifts in a given year. Roughly 1.5 per cent of the family budget is devoted to h o l i d ay g i v i n g. T h i s doesn’t factor in the additional expenses of food and entertaining, as well as travel and miscellaneous holiday necessities. The American Consumer Credit Council indicates that the average

American carries credit card debt of roughly $8,562, and holiday spending can add to that already heavy burden.

Setting aside funds for Christmas can help cut down on any additional debt from holiday giving.

It helps to budget for the added gifts, decorations and food that make the holidays festive.

Savings clubs have been offered through banks and other organizations for decades. It’s never too early to establish a Christmas savings account, and most people like to get started right at the beginning of the new year.

Although Christmas clubs have traditionally been offered through credit unions and savings banks, third-

p a r t y o r g a n i z a t i o n s, including retailers, also offer these types o f s av i n g s a c c o u n t s.

Such accounts may accrue a small amount of interest, and unlike accounts established with banks, the money saved must be spent with the particular retailer holding the account.

The Better Business Bureau advises that Christmas clubs are good ways to budget and help avoid holiday debt. Here are their suggestions when establishing an account.

• Build a budget.

Consider how much you spent in the previous holiday season to help determine how much you want to set aside every month.

• Start saving now.

Adrian and Barbara de Haan Lyle Zbeeshko

Best Wishes for 2013 GPC Board of Directors, Staff and Students www.greatplainscollege.ca

The sooner you start setting aside money every month, the better.

By setting up a club account in January or February, you’ll benefit more from the interest rate and start the year off on the right foot.

• Shop around. While the interest rates on these accounts are typically not very high, they can vary, so shop around for the best deal.

• Read the fine print.

Christmas clubs are essentially short-term savings accounts, but there are a few details that make them different.

In some cases, there might be a minimum required deposit to open the account or a minimum amount you must deposit every month. In addition, there is often a financial penalty for withdrawing the funds before the holiday shopping season arrives.

• Automate the process. Many Christmas club accounts allow for monthly automatic deductions of the amount of money you determine from your bank account or paychecque. This helps lessen the pinch. Just make sure that you don’t set aside so much that you run the risk of overdrawing on your accounts.

Christmas Cards May your Christmas and the New Year be Ålled with health, happiness and prosperity.

Central Plains Co-operative Ltd. Branches in Rosetown, Eston and Landis

Board, Management and Staff

306-882-2601

Happy Holidays from

Prairie Malt Limited Employees

Sending out Christmas greetings is a tradition that is still common today.

Have you ever wondered just how many cards are sent across the country?

According to Hallmark Corporate, 1.5 billion Christmas cards, including boxed and individual cards, are purchased and then sent every year. This makes Christmas the No. 1 holiday for sending greetings, followed by Valentine’s Day (144 million) and Mother’s Day (133 million).

Happy Holidays!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19

Great gifts for music fans Music remains an art form that evokes strong emotions and holds a special place in many a listener’s heart. The nearly universal appeal of music makes it a great gift come the holiday season, when shoppers may not always know what to buy a loved one. The following are a few gift ideas that are sure to have your favorite music fan singing your praises this holiday season.

• Concert tickets: Perhaps no gift makes music fans’ hearts race more than tickets to see their favorite musicians perform. Your loved one probably has a favorite artist or someone he or she has long desired to see live. Look into that performer’s tour dates to see if they are playing your area anytime soon. If they’re playing just before

the holiday season, don’t hesitate to give this gift a little early. The same approach should be taken if an artist will be in town within a day or two of Christmas or Chanukah.

Giving the tickets early enables your loved one the chance to clear his or her schedule.

• Musical instrument: It’s never too early or too late to learn how to play a new instrument. Shoppers whose loved ones love a good rock-and-roll riff might find guitars make a great holiday gift, while those who can’t stop playing air drums should enjoy finding a real drum set come the holidays.

When buying guitars, shoppers should learn which hand their loved ones favor.

• Music lessons: Lessons are the next logical step once a music fan has

the instruments to work with. But even those without an instrument of their own can benefit from music lessons. For example, music lovers who want to learn piano can make use of lessons even if they don’t have their own pianos at home. Lessons can be a great way for music lovers to gauge their skill levels before buying an expensive instrument.

In addition, lessons can turn music lovers on to new instruments or new types of music they may never have considered previously.

• Sound system: Advancements in technology have proven to be music to music lovers’ ears.

Music fans can now take advantage of crisp sound systems that make music that much more enjoyable. Sound systems come in many shapes and sizes,

and they can vary significantly in regard to price.

When purchasing a sound system as a holiday gift, look for one that’s compatible with your loved one’s existing components, such as a television or music player.

• Streaming service membership: Unlike the days when music fans had to wait for local deejays to play their favorite songs on the radio, today’s music fans can essentially create their own radio stations on their computers and even on their phones.

Shoppers can buy their favorite music fans subscriptions to streaming services, such as Pandora or Spotify, and listeners can then tailor their own stations to include their favorite genres, artists or individual songs.

Merry Christmas

from all of us May the coming year bring peace, joy and enlightenment to you and those you cherish.

Village of Landis Council and staff

Did you know?

Many Christmas traditions are older than some celebrants might think. The tradition of lighting up a Christmas tree, for example, dates back to the days before Christmas lights. Before electric-powered twinkle lights were invented and even before electricity was discovered, people used actual candles to adorn the Christmas tree. As one can imagine, having an open flame next to a dried-out tree was risky, so it was customary to keep a bucket of water next to the tree in the case of fire. As if fire wasn’t enough, the tinsel used to decorate trees was made from

strips of silver and even lead -- something that is now known to be a health hazard to adults and children alike. Although we’ve come a long way since candles and lead, even now trees that are overly dry and decorated with lights

that have frayed wires can just as easily lead to fires. Plus, plastic tinsel can be a choking hazard for children and pets. One Christmas staple that has lost its status as a safety hazard isthe poinsettia plant. It has long been thought

that poinsettias are poisonous to people and animals. While there is some toxicity to the plant, it would require the ingestion of hundreds of leaves to get a toxic dose of a plant’s poison.

Another great season is shaping up and we owe it all to you, our members and friends.

Thank you for your support…

Brett Barber and staff

~ and ~

Women’s Fitness Center, Personal Training, Fitness Classes …Nova Wood Centre, 104- 6th Ave. E. (south door), Biggar

306-948-2208 or 306-948-9750

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays!

Christmas 2013:

Hope It Delivers!

Wishing you all the trimmings of a very merry season We appreciate your loyal support.

May your home be blessed with peace, love, joy and contentment throughout the Yuletide season.

We feel blessed to have such wonderful friends and neighbours like you. Thanks!

Serving the community for over 15 years 212 Main St, Biggar Pizza Ray (aka Mayor Ray) and staff

948-4800

WITH THE VERY BEST OF WISHES FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS

Sunshine Family Care Home

Shannon de Vries, Residents and Staff

306-948-3644

Filled With Best Wishes

-- and stuffed with our gratitude, too!

Thank you for your generous support. Have a great Holidays!

Brendon Boothman, CFP Investment Advisor 306-937-5011/ 1-800-785-4722

Merry Christmas

20 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

The evolution and many faces of Christmas Many people prepare for the arrival of Christmas months in advance. The first traces of wrapping paper and decorations arrive in stores as early as September, transforming the holiday into a much more secular celebration than its modest Christian beginnings.

Despite Christmas being an important date in the lives of today’s

Christians, the holiday failed to gain prominent status until relatively recently. Research indicates that as late as the 19th century, Christmas was not even a legal holiday requiring a day off from work. That’s why 19th century readers of the classic Christmas tale, “A Christmas Carol,” were not shocked at Bob Cratchit having to work

Wishing our four-legged friends, all the creature comforts of a joyous and memorable holiday season… lots of good times and good memories.

THE COUNTRY CLIPPER

Season Greetings!

GROOMING & BOARDING

Natural health care for pets.

Janet Moon and staff • 306-948-2091

on Christmas Day. The United States Congress used to meet on Christmas Day because it was not a national holiday. In 1836, Alabama became the first state to officially recognize Christmas, but it didn’t become a legal holiday across the country until June 26, 1970.

Today’s Christmas celebrations include traditions from around the world. Some ascertain that it was the Church’s doing to schedule Christmas at a similar time to the pagan festivals, such as Saturnalia, that took place during the winter months. But many biblical scholars argue that this was not the case.

Some pagan influences, such as holly and mistletoe as well as the burning of a yule log, have long been a part of Christmas traditions.

Santa Claus is one of the more recognizable symbols of Christmas. He is based on St. Nikolas of Myrna, an area that is part of modern-day

Turkey. St. Nikolas is the world’s most popular nonBiblical saint and is one of the saints most portrayed by artists. Early depictions of St. Nikolas show him as a stern man who delivered his share of discipline. Eventually, those depictions changed to show a figure more associated with generosity.

Throughout history there have been characters from around the globe, such as the Viking deity Odin, who were precursors to Santa Claus. Myth states that Odin rode his eight-legged flying horse in the winter. Odin gave out gifts to wellbehaved children and punishments to those who misbehaved. Children would fill boots or stockings with treats for the flying horse.

Regardless of the origins of Christmas, today it is hard to deny that Christmas is a commercialized success. It is a national holiday not only in the United States and Canada but also in other areas

of the world, and it is best known for the tradition of giving presents to others. In fact, many people head to the stores well in advance of the Christmas holiday to purchase all of the presents on their shopping lists. The shopping season tradition may be traced back to the time of World War II, when it was necessary to mail gifts early to the troops serving in Europe so that they would be able to open them in time.

Merchants realized that this concept could be used when gifting troops as well as private citizens, reminding shoppers to make their holiday purchases early so they could mail them to relatives near or far. As a result, the advanced shopping season was born.

Although many people feel Christmas begins when the first bag of tinsel appears on a store shelf and ends when the last present is opened on December 25th, the true religious holiday does not

coincide with merchant schedules. While most people are bustling to and from department stores and malls, Christians are participating in Advent, which was traditionally a solemn season of reflection and fasting.

Christians are supposed to spend Advent preparing for the birth of Jesus Christ and the joy that ensues during the weeks leading up to December 25.

Similarly, the joyous time of Christ’s birth is a day of celebration that does not end on December 26 but continues for 12 days until the Epiphany, also known as Little Christmas, when Magi were reported to have visited the infant Christ and give him gifts.

Although the more traditional day for gift-giving would seem to be on the Epiphany, by the time that day arrives many people have already taken down their Christmas decorations.

Brie and Hazelnut Stuffed Mushrooms

Here’s hoping your holiday is programmed with enough joy and laughter, to last all year round.

We value your support and thank you for doing business with us this past year.

Biggar Leisure • Flat Panel TVs • Appliances • Computers and Computer Repairs • SaskTel Cellular and Highspeed • Digital Camera • Wii, Xbox 360, PS3 216 Main St., Biggar • 306-948-2266 Larry, Sandy, Brock, Floyd, Martine, Brandy & Tara

Ingredients 12 crimini mushrooms, washed and dried 24 whole hazelnuts plus 1 tbsp crushed hazelnuts 2-3 oz triple cream brie cheese 1/4 cup dried cranberries or mixed dried berries 2tbsp hazelnut oil 1 spring fresh rosemary, chopped 1/4 tsp kosher salt Method 1. Preheat oven to 350*. 2. Remove stem from mushrooms by cutting around and twisting off. 3. Pour hazelnut oil into a mixing bowl and add mushrooms. Toss to evenly coat. 4. Place mushrooms stemless side down onto baking sheet.

Place in oven for about 3 minutes. 5. Remove mushrooms from oven and turn over. (If your mushrooms

are particularly watery, you may need to pat sheet dry or use a clean baking sheet). 6. Add 1-2 whole hazelnuts to the bowl, depending on mushroom size. 7. Top with 1-2 halfinch, thin slices of brie. 8.

Top with cranberries. 9.

Mix rosemary and salt evenly and sprinkle over mushrooms. 10. Return to oven for additional 5 minutes baking, depending on mushroom size. 11.

You may wish to rest on paper towel for a moment to absorb moisture. Serve hot.

For more mushroom recipes visit mushrooms. ca

Sweden

From all of us to all of you, Merry Christmas and many thanks for your continued support. Your friendship makes it all worthwhile!

To Our Valued Customers at the Holiday Season

The thing we value most about our business is the chance to meet people like you! Merry Christmas and much happiness to you this holiday season.

221 Main St. • Biggar Kelly, Floyd, Makenzie, Samantha, Erika and Madison

Lynn and Chuck Strate and staff

306-237-4282

306-948-5355

The figure of Santa Claus is filled by the Jultomte, who opts to knock at the front door when he delivers presents rather than sneaking in through the chimney, and asks if there are any good children present before distributing gifts.

Estonia In the weeks leading up to Christmas, children will leave their slippers on their window sills for elves to fill with sweets.

The actual celebration of Christmas is held on the 24th, with the 25th being reseved for visiting family and friends.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Happy Holidays!

Nine things to do when the New Year arrives People across the globe anxiously await the arrival of the new year.

Different cultures and religions celebrate their own new year at different times, but for much of the world, January 1 marks the date for change and renewal.

With so much emphasis placed on what people will be doing for the last day of the year, little thought may be given to what to do after the clock strikes 12. Each minute afterward opens up the possibilities to begin fresh with new goals and tasks.

For those wondering how to commence the new year, there are many ways to tackle the first day and thereafter -- after you have recovered from the New Year’s Eve celebration, that is.

• Take down holiday decorations. While there are some people who prefer to leave up their Christmas decorations until after the celebration of the Epiphany, or Three Kings Day, by January 1 many are ready to say goodbye to the holiday

season for another year.

Having the day off of work and school enables you to spend time removing decorations from the house and taking down the tree, especially before dried-out pine needles become more than you can handle.

• Shop post-holiday sales. After spending several months buying for every person on your list, this could be a time that you focus on picking up some things for yourself or the household. Stores may need to liquidate holiday stock and other inventory to make room for spring styles. Many shoppers find the deals hard to pass up when shopping in the early days of January. Check online to comparison shop, and scour the Internet for any printable coupons that can earn you even bigger discounts.

• Vi s i t f a m i l y a n d friends. This time of year may be happy for some, but for those far from members of the family or seniors who may have lost many close companions, the winter and

post-holiday season could bring on the blues. Visiting extended family you may not have seen during the holidays is one way to pass the day. You also can volunteer some of your time at a senior center or assisted-living facility to spread some post-holiday cheer.

• Discard expired foods and medicines. Take this opportunity to throw out any medications that expire this year, which will give you a head start on spring cleaning as well.

Toss out old makeup and cosmetic products and make a list of new items to buy. Also, take inventory of the refrigerator and freezer, cleaning out any items that are no longer recognizable or that are past the recommended date.

• Head to the movies.

Go to the movie theater and take in a flick with the family. January is not the most active time for new releases, but there are some films released in the first month of the year. You can enjoy a lazy day with some cinematic magic and a bag of popcorn.

• Make a folder to store tax preparation paperwork. Tax season is just around the corner. Use this time to collect any paperwork you already may have received and put it in a safe place.

Expect new statements

of past earnings, any information about interest earned on bank statements and other pertinent tax documents to start arriving. Also, if you use an accountant to help file your taxes, call his or her office and book an appointment before his or her schedule fills up.

• Watch a football game. After weeks of running around at a breakneck pace, use this day to lounge around and recharge. Chances are you can find a football game on television. Order in a pizza and cheer on your favorite team.

• Encourage the kids to put down the toys and pick up a book. Many students will be returning to school soon after an extended winter recess.

Have them get back into the swing of things by brushing up on lessons last touched on in December.

• Host a post-holiday pot luck. Clean out the refrigerator of those salvageable leftovers from your New Year’s Eve bash. Invite others over with their own foods and host one last party before you have to get back to the daily grind.

There are many ways to start off the new year on the right foot. Get a head start on cleaning or organizing, or relax once more with friends and family.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 21

Merry Christmas and

Happy Holidays from Dr. Kirk Ewen and staff

1-855-651-3311

And may the spirit of Christmas warm your heart and hearth this season.

We appreciate the gift of your patronage and look forward to seeing you in the new year.

Steven Balzer and staff 1-800-667-6919

Holiday Greetings

With heartfelt thanks from all of us.

We really appreciate the gift of your friendship.

Management & staff Perdue • 306-237-4272 Now with eight locations

May you and your family enjoy a Christmas stuffed with lots of magic, merriment and delight.

We know we’re Àlled with appreciation when we think of the many good folk we’ve had the pleasure to serve this year.

Merry Christmas!

Biggar Shop Easy F•O•O•D•S

May the peace and happiness of the Christmas season carry you and your family through the new year and beyond. Thank you for your patronage.

Committed to our Community Greg, Naomi and staff

Spyder AutoBody 306-948-2044

306-948-5144

Fred, Patsy, Curtis, Roy, Bryor, Teagon

Merry Christmas

22 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

Krampus: A sinister Christmas companion

by Tom Larson You better watch out, you better not cry, better not pout, I’m telling you why . . . Krampus is coming to town?

The globe is a rather large place, and while Christmas pops up all across it during the month of December, there are a number of local spins on the holiday. The Alps are a good example of this, having their celebration, the Feast of St. Nicholas, on December 6, with additional celebration the night before with Krampusnacht.

It is important to note that the date of the celebration isn’t the only difference between Christmas here and there, and in fact our own traditions and lore behind the season can trace some ties back to those of the Alps. With the Feast of St. Nicholas and the preceding Krampusnacht, there are two notable individuals associated w i t h t h e Yu l e T i d e festivities. St. Nicholas, whom we are all quite familiar with, and often portrayed in garb similar to that of a Bishop, only

concerns himself with the proverbial “Nice List”. The “Naughty List”, as it were, is the domain of Krampus, a satyr-like fellow of rather intimidating, beastly appearance. That lump of coal in your stocking?

That would be his doing, and that’s if you were lucky.

I m u s t s a y, t h e variety of Krampusnacht celebrations is really quite interesting. In some regions it is as low key as a man dressed up as Krampus going from door to door and delivering unto families a small bundle of sticks, painted gold, for the parents to place upon the mantle for the year as a reminder for the children that Krampus is watching.

Other locations have both Krampus and St. Nicholas go to houses together, as a sort of holiday good cop, bad cop routine where St. Nicholas simply takes children at their word if they say they’ve been good that year, where Krampus will go digging a bit harder to see if the children have been illbehaved. Some places

even go so far to have Halloween-like parades of Krampusz (the plural form found in Hungary).

Krampus and Christmas are hardly a new pairing, either, as he has been associated with St. Nicholas and his feast since the 1600’s. He did have a bit of a rough time around 1934 during the Austrian Civil War, when the Dollfus regime banned the practice of Krampusnacht and any form of representation of Krampus, but the celebration has seen a resurgence in popularity towards the end of the 20th century. In fact, Krampus has been having some help in the PR department over the past few years, getting a number of mentions in references in various media. In cartoons he has popped up in both an episode of Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated (Wrath of the Krampus) as well as the Venture Bros Christmas special in 2004 (A Very Venture Christmas). In live action television he has been spotted on both the Colbert Report in

2009 (The Blitzkrieg on Grinchitude – Hallmark and Krampus) and in The League in 2012 (A Krampus Carol).

Krampus: The Yule Lord, a fantasy novel by Gerald Brom, is yet another place he has cropped up again in recent years.

Remember the earlier mentioned lump of coal in the stocking? Well, just as there are a variety of celebrations involving Krampus, there are also a number of different ways that he will deal with balancing the books where his “Naughty List” is concerned. At the low end of the spectrum Krampus will deliver unto those he feels were ill-behaved either a lump of coal or a swat on the rump with a bundle of birch branches. For those who behaved worse than that, or live where Krampus is stricter, you might find yourself spirited away in the night to any number of locations, including St. Nicholas’ house, Krampus’ undermountain realm, or to Spain (likely as a result of values dissonance from an earlier point

in time). The most extreme alleged actions of Krampus involve him either eating the child whole or throwing them into a freezing river, though these ones smell of hollow threats to keep children on the straight and narrow.

Krampus is certainly an intriguing bit of Christmas tradition, serving as both a reminder of consequence for the younglings, and

Krampus and Saint Nicholas visit a Viennese home in 1896. (photo from Wikipedia)

1-888-214-3333

HOLIDAY HOURS… OPEN: CLOSED: OPEN: OPEN: CLOSED: OPEN:

a social safety value letting those a bit older get some rowdiness out of their systems. While he isn’t seen that much on this continent, his popularity is climbing, and celebrations can be found in some Germanic communities in the north eastern United States.

You better watch out, you better not cry. You better not pout, I’m telling you why. Krampus is coming to town!

December 24 until 3:00 p.m.

December 25, December 26, December 27 December 30, regular business hours December 31 until 3:00 p.m.

January 1 Thursday, January 2, regular business hours

Happy Holidays!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 23

Safety should be a holiday tradition, too Celebrants and shoppers annually spend billions of dollars during the holiday season. With so much money exchanging hands, it is imperative for shoppers and revelers to use caution to avoid incidents that can put a damper on such a festive time of year.

Though many people who look forward to the holiday season for all the right reasons, there are some who see this time of year as a prime opportunity to prey on the generosity or distraction Christmas brings.

Thieves know that the holidays can be hectic, and they use this to their advantage, knowing full well people tend to store high-priced items in their homes during this time of the year. Heeding certain safety tips during the holidays can help keep you and your loved ones safe.

Stagger shopping times Being a creature of habit may not be advantageous come the holidays. Oftentimes, potential burglars monitor neighborhoods to see when residents come and go. It can take mere minutes for a thief to get into a home and then abscond with valuables.

Creating a situation where there is always someone home or at least the appearance that someone is home might dissuade a thief from targeting your home. When you venture out to shop, do so at different times so you’re not establishing a recognizable pattern that gives a thief a sense of security and a perfect window of time to break in.

Triple-check your home Security experts warn that most burglaries occur during daytime hours when homes are empty.

The main point of entry

is on the ground floor via a rear or a side door.

Access through a garage door is another common way thieves gain access to a home.

Before leaving the house, make sure that all doors and windows are locked and that the garage door cannot be opened. Many times thieves are able to simply enter a home through an unlocked window. The key is to make it as difficult as possible for a burglar to get inside your home.

Running out of the home for parties, shopping and other social events could derail safety precautions.

If need be, leave a checklist by the front door to remind you to safeguard the home before exiting.

Park in well-lit areas Cars are prime targets for burglaries. Many times shoppers visit the car frequently during shopping excursions and store gifts in the trunk, only to return for more shopping. Thieves rec-

ognize there may be a bounty of merchandise inside.

First and foremost, all items in the car should be stored out of sight to deter interest in your vehicle. Secondly, make sure that the car is locked and that the security system (if there is one) is engaged, as merchandise in a car is not often covered by standard auto insurance policies. In addition, park as close as you can to the store entrance or beneath a bright light.

Poor visibility encourages thieves.

Watch your wallet Cash is a very attractive prospect for thieves because it is largely untraceable and easily spent. While shoppers who want to curb high credit card bills might favor cash, it is important not to carry too much around. Spread out purchases over a few days so that you do not have to carry large quantities of cash.

With thanks and glad tidings from us this holiday season.

Gift Certificates available

KRF Auto Centre • Granitex Baked-on Coating • Vortex Spray-in Box liners • Auto Accessories • Detailing • Trailer Rentals 227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar • 306-948-1722

0221 /,*+7 7+(5$3< Janet Moon, Candice Moon, Colour Therapists

For Information and Appointments

306-948-2091

With thanks to all of those who’ve inspired us this past year. We are truly grateful for your friendship and continued loyalty .

Season’s Greetings…

Tara Lynn, Lorraine, Crystal, Jeffery, Helen and Charlene

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

From Our Hearth To Yours

Welcome The Season!

When it comes to Christmas, we’ve got you covered -- with our warm wishes and heartfelt thanks.

Germany “Fröhliche Weihnachten” is a typical festive greating issued in Germany this time of year.

In Germany, and much of the surrounding region, the Christkind (litterally “Christ child”) brings presents to families on December 24th, but is invisible and thus can’t be seen doing it. He rings a bell before leaving to let the children know the tree is ready.

When using an ATM at the mall or at the bank, always be aware of your surroundings, including fellow customers. It may be worth paying multiple service fees to withdraw small amounts of cash rather than withdrawing a large amount of money that thieves can target.

Remove extraneous credit cards when shopping. Should your wallet be stolen or go missing, this will eliminate the number of accounts that thieves can use and also cuts down on the number of accounts that need to be closed out. You should never carry your social security card in your wallet because this increases your risk of being victimized by identity theft.

Request to sign for packages Many shipping carriers have eliminated the need for package recipients to sign for merchandise. Recipients can now choose to have boxes and bags left outside the front door. To decrease the risk of theft, always choose to sign for packages, regardless of how safe your neighborhood may be.

Professional Grade Aroma & Colour Therapy Products • Colour Energy Therapy • Chakra Healing • Anti-aging body & facial Massage • Biopulsar Diagnosis

There may be a chill in the air at the holiday season, But we’re Àlled with much warmth and you are the reason.

So to our many good friends both far and near,

We bid a most joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thank you to our customers for their support.

1-866-934-6675/306-934-6675

Merry Christmas

24 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas

from Our Place to Yours

113-3rd Ave. W., Biggar

306-948-5052

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2013

The magic of Santa He had a broad face and a little round belly that shook when he laughed like a bowl full of jelly. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf. And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself. - “A Visit From St. Nicholas” Christmas just wouldn’t be the same without Santa Claus.

Santa will forever be ingrained in the holiday season, serving as an endearing symbol of the season regardless of your religious affi liation.

Parents typically go to great lengths to ensure their children enjoy the

from Rick & Staff

holiday season. By keeping the magic of Santa alive, parents can add a special touch to the holiday season for their youngsters. Children may become more skeptical of Santa around the time they turn 10, but there are plenty of ways to encourage this spirit to live on year after year.

• Read an uplifting story. The holidays are ripe with stories that tug at the heartstrings.

Parents can take their children to the library and rent a Christmas tale or take home a book of holiday stories, reading a different one before bed each night.

Encourage children to write their own positive stories of what the holidays mean to them and read them aloud to family and friends. The book “101 Ways to Keep the Spirit of Santa Alive: For “Kids” From 1 to 92”

by John Hagerman is a great way to get everyone in the house enthu-

siastic about Santa.

• Keep the magic flowing. Children who believe in Santa for an extra year or two often come from families that keep the magic of Santa alive. In addition to the standard traditions of leaving cookies and milk out for the jolly old man, come up with new ways to evoke the essence of Santa. Spray peppermint air freshener around the tree and other places Santa is sure to visit. Use a large boot to make a footprint in a plush rug. Find a way to trigger noise on the roof to give kids the impression that Mr. Claus himself has arrived. Extra measures to keep Santa alive can help everyone enjoy the holiday that much more.

• Take advantage of opportunities to spend time with Santa. Parents and children alike have many opportunities to spend time with Santa during the holiday season, including photo op-

portunities at the mall and personalized videos sent directly to youngsters’ email accounts.

Elf dolls and breakfast with Santa at a nearby restaurant are other opportunities to spread the magic. Make the most of these opportunities over the course of the holiday season.

• Spread some Christmas cheer. Santa’s job is to bring presents to the world’s children.

Channel the notion that giving is better than receiving and spend time giving back to others as a family. Schedule a day when you can distribute gifts at a senior center or arrange to bring gifts to a foster child. Bake cookies and deliver cellophane-wrapped dishes to all of your neighbors.

These activities put the emphasis on giving.

Keeping the tradition of Santa Claus alive can help adults and children alike enjoy a more festive holiday season.

HOLIDAY HOURS Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 26

Open 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

CLOSED Open 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Boxing Day Specials Dec. 27 Open 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Dec. 28-30 Open Regular Hours Dec. 31 Open 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Jan. 1st Open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Jan. 2nd Resume Normal Hrs.

Georgia ... And from the heart, too, Go our very best wishes To each one of you!

Merry Christmas and many thanks for your kindness and your continued business!

Angie’s Hair Salon & Barber Shop

ROSETOWN 306-882-4333

Angie, Sherry, stylists and Carleen, Lash technican 219 Main St., Biggar • 306-948-3696

To all our a goes our g

Hap

During Christmas it is tradition to go on Alilo, a mass walk in the streets held so that people may celebrate and congregate together, with the majority of the march being composed by children. There Santa Claus is known as “tovlis papa” (literally “Grandfather snow”).

Angi

A Ca

219 Main S