Webpaper 51

Christmas finery . . . Biggar Central School took to the stage to perform their annual Christmas concert, December 10. Dressed in their best, the kids put on a great show, followed by a bit of fun in a carnival atmosphere. See Page 2 for more. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Vol. 106 No. 51

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

24 pages

$1.25

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Biggar Central School held their annual Christmas celebration, December 10, and smiles were abundant as the performers put on their best, hoping Santa will bring them that special wish. The revitalized BCS Band program put all in the holiday mood. Fun and games were held after the formal performance - selfies with Santa, tree lighting, hot chocolate. It was a special evening for one and all!

(Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

Weekes says session on positive terms; looking forward to election December 10.

New numbers show employof The Independent ment second best The past proin the country, vincial govand unemployernment sesment the lowest sion had its in Canada. fair share of “That’s a far cry trials, accordfrom a decade ing to Biggar Randy Weekes ago,” Weekes said.

MLA Randy “Part of what the Weekes, but the Sask Premier and our governParty responded, mak- ment are doing to keep ing the province one of the economy strong is the economic leaders of continuing to invest in the country. much needed infrastruc“The session ended ture projects.” on the 26th, and as Some of those projects the Premier said even are a many new health with the challenges fac- facilities, highways, 18 ing the resource sector, new schools, et cetera.

Saskatchewan is still Under the previous govgrowing and creating ernment, Weekes points jobs,” Weekes described out, schools, health facilby Kevin Brautigam

ities were closed and no new money was put towards highways.

The farmland ownership issue was also dealt with.

“There was a number of concerns over the years about offshore money, non-Canadians owning land . . . we took steps to clarify that and put an end to those practices,” he said. “We want to keep the land in Canadian hands and the farm family.”

The most important thing locally was the Biggar and District Health Centre opening - 54 long-term care beds and renovations to the Biggar Hospital. The …see Weekes, pg 19

So, you see, Santa . . . This holiday dreamer bends Santa’s ear at the Family Centre, Friday. They pulled a few strings and got the Jolly One to sit with the kids, hear their holiday wish list, hand out a few early presents to the kids, and get their picture taken. The Family Centre was a-buzz with squeals of delight as Santa put one and all in the holiday spirit. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Biggar RCMP arrest thief wanted on Canada-wide warrant Biggar RCMP were instrumental in arresting a fugitive wanted in the several robberies.

On December 10 at midnight, Biggar RCMP arrested the adult male suspected in a string of robberies that occurred earlier in Moosomin and Indian Heat.

Biggar RCMP deployed a spike belt on Highway 4 south of Biggar, disabling the fugitive’s vehicle, taking him into custody.

It all began on Dec. 9 at 3:45 p.m., RCMP received a complaint of a robbery at a jewellery store in Moosomin.

It was reported an adult male entered the store

and in the process of being shown various high-end watches, the male pushed the owner away and fled with a watch. The owner took chase after the male and was able to obtain a plate number and vehicle description, which was passed on to neighbouring detachments.

At 5:10 p.m., Indian Head RCMP responded to a report of an armed robbery at a pharmacy on Grand Avenue in Indian Head. It was reported the suspect alluded to possessing a gun, but did not produce one. He fled in a vehicle, matching the description of the vehicle used

in the Moosomin robbery with an undisclosed amount of medication.

Witness statements and surveillance video provided a description of the suspect and the vehicle, which had Ontario license plates and a female behind the wheel.

Indian Head and Fort Qu’Appelle RCMP, along with File Hills Police Service conducted patrols in the area. Information from the Ontario Provincial Police provided details about a male associated to the vehicle, who was wanted on a number of warrants out of Ontario.

Outlook RCMP located

and stopped the suspect vehicle just east of Outlook. The female driver of the vehicle was arrested at the scene. The male suspect ignored commands from police and fled in the vehicle. After a short pursuit into Outlook, the suspect fled on foot after turning onto a dead end street. Outlook RCMP set-up a perimeter and RCMP police dog service was deployed to the scene.

At 9:10 p.m., RCMP received a complaint of a stolen 2004 Chrysler Intrepid from Outlook and a short while later another complaint of a gas and dash in Rosetown. An employee

provided a description of the suspect and the vehicle, which matched the stolen vehicle and the male suspect. The witness indicated the suspect was headed in the direction of Biggar.

Steven Scott, 37, from Barrie, Ontario is charged with: one count of robbery; one count of robbery with firearm; two counts of operation of motor vehicle while being pursued; two counts of dangerous operation of motor vehicle; two counts of utter-

ing threats to police; one count of assault police officer; one count of theft of vehicle; one count of theft under $5,000; one count of break and enter; one count of possession of stolen property under $5,000; one count of breach of probation.

His first court appearance was Dec. 11 in North Battleford Provincial Court.

This investigation is ongoing and further charges may be pending.

GAS PRICES AT THE PUMP… Wednesday, December 16, 2015, 11 a.m. (stations randomly selected)

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This is Weeeek . . .

The truth is out there (wrapped in a Christmas bow) . . . New Creation Community Players’ Madeline Ellard and the rest of the junior cast, perr formed a holiday musical with a sci-fi twist, Friday

for the schools. The Xmas Files - a hilarious twist on n the iconic TV show, was previewed to a lot of laughter by schools, then took to the stage for the public on n Saturday. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Opinions ......................................................... 4 Agriculture .................................................... 8 Christmas ............................................. 12 - 14 Classifieds ..............................................17 - 19 Business & Professional Directories ......20 - 21

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Celebrate the real Christmas spirit Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.

Calvin Coolidge There is something different in the air during this season. People often stop to say hello and the refrain Merry Christmas is heard everywhere.

As for events and activities happening in Biggar and the surrounding area, there is no doubt we live in an active community.

It is true by now most of the events have happened, although there are still a few left. It takes a lot of time and effort to put on these events so that audiences can enjoy them.

If you haven’t had a chance to take in any of them yet check out and see what is still to come. You won’t be disappointed.

We have had some disturbing events on the global scene these past months but Coolidge was right -- let’s cherish the peace and goodwill we have so it will put us in the real spirit of Christmas.

P.H.

Letter to the Editor…

Dear Editor Controlling guns has again become a major topic in the media with fanatics on both sides.

The question is how to stop the criminal use of guns without putting undue restrictions on legitimate users and our civil liberties.

One answer is simple. Come down so hard on anyone using a gun to commit a crime that these people will seriously reconsider their use. In my opinion this would include prisoners being required to work on chain gangs, to a mandatory death sentence for horr rendous killings of innocent people.

Tax payers should not be on the hook to mollycodle these people. Make an example of them but leave honest gun owners alone.

There are two main classes of firearms. Automatic, where more than one round is fired each time the trigger is pulled and non-automatic where the trigger must be pulled for each shot. Basically automatic weapons are designed and used to kill people and are not needed by sportsmen. Nonautomatic guns are used for hunting, where one well placed shot brings home the meat without leaving game animals wounded and suffering.

Punishment should be increased for abusers but don’t try to control all gun users. Gun control does not work.

Take the guns away from honest people and only criminals will have guns.

What happens then?

Bob Wiseman Biggar, Sask

municipalities. s &REEZE FUNDING TO MUNICIPALITIES (e.g. transfers from the Municipal Revenue Sharing) at current levels until municipalities better manage their operating spending.

Municipal governments should: s $EVELOP AND IMPLEMENT A PLAN over time to reduce the commercialto-residential property tax gap. s ,IMIT YEAR OVER YEAR SPENDING TO maximum of inflation plus popula-

tion growth. s 2EVIEW CURRENT PROGRAMS AND services to identify areas that can be streamlined or eliminated. s )NTRODUCE A PLAN TO REDUCE THE SIZE AND COST OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL service (primarily through attrition). s )F APPLICABLE CONSIDER THE INTROduction of a base tax for all homeowners.

Ranking best & worst property tax gaps in Saskatchewan CFIB’s annual comparison of property taxes between Saskatchewan municipalities revealed mixed results for 2014. On average, commercial property owners paid 2.28 times the municipal property taxes of residential property owners. The property tax gap is a measure of property tax fairness for small businesses.

CFIB’s research report, Wanted: Property Tax Fairness in Saskatchewan, is the eighth in a series of reports examining municipal and total property tax gaps for 69 municipalities and 32 Rural Municipalities (RMs) with a population of 1,000 or more. The gap measures the ratio of commercial and residential property tax bills for properties assessed at $200,000.

Some key findings include: Commercial property owners paid between $1.14 and $5.14 for every dollar in municipal taxes paid by homeowners.

The top five best municipal property tax gaps were: Waldheim (1.14), Dalmeny (1.16), Langham (1.18), White City (1.19) Langenburg (1.20).

The top five worst municipal property tax gaps were: Foam Lake (5.14), Kamsack (4.47), Prince Albert (4.20), Shellbrook (4.19) and Rosetown (3.95).

Eight RMs (Lumsden, Buckland,

Prince Albert, South Qu’Appelle, Dundurn, Moose Jaw, Hudson Bay, and Battle River) had the lowest municipal property tax gap of 1.43.

The top five worst RM property tax gaps were: Mervin (18.81), Frenchman Butte (13.43), Wilton (12.70), Britannia (12.70) and Beaver River (6.93).

To level the playing field in Saskatchewan’s property tax system, CFIB recommends: The provincial government should: s #ONTINUE TO FINANCE A GREATER portion of education through general revenues by further reducing the education mill rate for commercial properties. s 2EJECT RAISING EDUCATION PROPerty taxes to pay for infrastructure projects. s )NTRODUCE A LONG TERM STRATEGY TO phase out the use of mill rate factors all together. s 2EJECT ANY PROPOSAL THAT WOULD provide increased taxation powers to

www.biggarindependent.ca

tthhhee Phone: 306-948-3344

Fax: 306-948-2133

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

E-mail: tip@sasktel.net

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

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

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

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Once again, we come to the Holiday Season, a deeply religious time that each of us observes, in his own way, by going to the mall of his choice. ~Dave Barry, “Christmas Shopping: A Survivor’s Guide” Dave Barry is being a touch synical in his observations of the Christmas season but he is right in saying that each of us celebrates the season in his own way.

It is not only the traditions we adhere to on the day itself but Christmas Eve comes with its own traditions and celebrations.

I remember my mother telling me about Christmas in her child-

hood home. The family is from German descent and she grew up in a time when material things were of less importance. Christmas Eve was a time when the family gathered and presents were opened.

(My father’s family would decorate the tree on that day). Everyone attended Midnight Mass and in the morning there was usually an orange and a piece of candy in their stockings.

As we grew up we did maintain the tradition of opening gifts on Christmas Eve and gathering with family.

We didn’t always make the trip for Midnight Mass but if we didn’t we were sure to attend

church on Christmas Day. There were always special treats such as cookies and pies that were only made for this occasion.

As for my family we were required to attend two Christmas celebrations so Christmas Eve was always spent with my parents. My children opened gifts on both the 24th and 25th and were extremely pleased about that.

Stockings were something introduced by my husband’s family.

Today I look at my grandchildren and again the traditions have changed. It is much more high tech.

They like to gather round the computer and follow Santa as he

makes his way around the world. NORAD does a great job of tracking Santa and the reindeer as they make their rounds. The site is operational on December 1 of each year. Now there is even an app available.

Families today are honouring some old traditions but are including new ones in their holiday celebrations.

As I asked some young parents what they are doing, it was clear the main goal is still to keep family time a priority.

Some give their children busy boxes on Christmas Eve. This box may be packed full of anything -- activity books, felt pens, books, hot chocolate and marshmallows. A new set of pyjamas may be part of the surprise.

Another trend is Christmas Elves.

These elves make their appearance around the

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5 1st of December. They next year leaving a note spend the night and in their place. sometimes they may get Even though the ways into a bit of trouble as of celebrating have everyone sleeps. They changed, in the end it is may raid the fridge, all about family. put plasttic frogs in shoes or watch movies with teddies. For sure, they never stay in the same place. It’s all in good fun. When Santa arrives he takes them home with him until

“Chase The Ace” at The Legion Fridays

TOWN OF BIGGAR Please note that LANDFILL will be

Biggar Lodge News someone read the paper to us. In the afternoon we had men’s coffee.

Wednesday we curled, inside of course.

In the afternoon we had Yahtzee, with big yellow dice.

Thursday we have a bible study followed by more exercises. In the afternoon we played Bingo, the most popular activity. Friday one of our homes gets treated

to breakfast club. This week it was Skyview, after breakfast we have a bible study. In the afternoon we bowled, how fun is that.

Saturday we had Home Sweet Home Bingo, enjoyed by all who came.

Then in the afternoon the Legion treated us to Santa, did the residents enjoy that, you bet, the smiles on the faces were priceless.

Thank you

Legion for making our Saturday special.

Sunday we do the oneon-ones in the morning, in the afternoon we had church with Sonningdale.

Thanks to everyone who so faithfully comes to volunteer, and all who come to visit, the residents enjoy it for sure.

CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC

Friday, December 25, 2015.

The Majestic Theatre Á

by Karen Kammer, Recreation Coordinator Hi all, its beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here.

Monday we do our exercises to keep in shape, in the afternoon we had bean bag toss.

It helps us get rid of any frustrations we may have! Tuesday we keep up to date with our current events, it is so good just to have

Biggar

DEC. - JAN.

Á

“ HUNGER GAMES MOCKINGJAY, Pt 2”

Genre: Adventure/Sci-Fi /Action/Fantasy/Sequel Running Time: 2 hr. 16 min.

Rated: PG

"

"

Friday, DEC. 18 • 8 p.m.

Saturday, DEC. 19 • 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, DEC. 20 2:00 p.m. Matinee ($5 admission)

“The Good Dinosaur”

Genre: Action/Adventure/Animated/Children/Family Running Time: 1 hr. 41 min.

Rated: G

Saturday, DEC. 26 • 2 p.m. Matinee & 8 p.m.

Sunday, DEC. 27 • 2 p.m. Matinee & 8 p.m.

Monday, DEC. 28 • 8 p.m.

(Matinee--$5 admission)

“Love The Coopers”

Nuttin’ for Christmas! . . . Biggar Central School students performed the classic holiday tune for residents at the Biggar Health Centre, Monday. The

school came in to put a smiles on residents and staff with their holiday cheer. (Independent Photo by Kevin

Genre: Comedy Running Time: 1 hr. 47 min.

Brautigam)

Friday, JAN. 1 • 8 p.m.

Saturday, JAN. 2 • 8 p.m.

Sunday, JAN 3 • 2:00 p.m. Matinee ($5 admission) For bookings and information please phone Bear Hills RDC @ 306-948-2295

Cover the province with one phone call.

Place a blanket classified!

306-948-3344

Rated: PG

This space is courtesy of The Biggar Independent

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

by Bob Mason

The great fiction affliction After scrawling away at this column for a few years and trying to make some sense in many of them, Yours Truly has decided that when he got old, he was going to try some fiction – which may not make much sense either, as far as that goes!

That darned “muse” of mine (named “Thalia”, I think!) insists on staying away holidaying on Mount Olympus somewhere, because she doesn’t think Y.T. is capable of competing with those great fiction writers like Homer, de Maupassant, Dumar, John Donne and Hemingway. If all goes well, we’ll sure show her, eh?

So Y.T. has started to make a few plans. He found an old book on “How to Write Good Fiction!” – and here goes!

Y.T. considered some

of Homer’s writing for a while but when he realized that “Golden Fleeces” were going out of style we cast his stuff aside! As far as he knows, Jason is still out there steering the “Argosy” across the Black Sea somewhere!

Having looked into some of the prolific writing of Alexandre Dumas (and Maupassant), right away, there was nothing to write about anymore, and filed his approach to fiction right away! I mean, how much imagination does a fiction writer have to have?

Again, as far as Y.T. knows, Dumas is still tunnelling through solid rock of the Chateau d’if!

John Done, the fellow who wrote: “I said to the man who stood at the Gate of the Year: “Give me a light that

I may travel safely into the unknown.”

Got Y.T.’s attention for a few minutes, but going through some of his stuff, Y.T. decided mebbe it was a little too high class for our Saskatchewan society!

After looking at a lot of writing done in the past, and still looking for a title that made sense, at last Y.T. came to Ernest Hemingway.

“For whom the Bell Tolls” sure had a nice ring to it, except that it had been written years before and had nothing to do with the story inside the book! “Grapes of Wrath” also seemed a good eye-catcher, but again it had little to do with The Depression. “Of mice and men!” mebbe was a little more to the point, though.

True, “Mice and” might be mistaken by some readers to sound like “Mason men” who already have some things said about them – most of them bad!

“Ah, Wilderness!” seemed a little more to the point mebbe, but in our modern day I’m afraid a “loaf of bread; a jug of wine and thou” aren’t enough to make our country look like a “wilderness”!

So what to do? Having discarded many of the titles he’d seen in

TOWN OF BIGGAR, SASKATCHEWAN

PUBLIC NOTICE OF ZONING BYLAW AMENDMENT Public Notice is hereby given that the Council of the Town of Biggar intends to adopt a bylaw under The Planning and Development Act, 2007 to amend Bylaw No. 01-632 known as The Zoning Bylaw.

INTENT The proposed bylaw will: 1. Rezone from R2 - Medium Density Residential District to CS Community Service District described below as affected lands.

AFFECTED LAND The affected land to be rezoned in 1. is described as Proposed Parcel E which is shown outline in bold on the Proposed Plan of Subdivision map forming part of this notice.

REASON The reason for the amendment is to allow the development of a group care facility on this land.

PUBLIC INSPECTION Any person may inspect the bylaw at the Town Office in Biggar, Saskatchewan between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding statutory holidays. Copies are available at a cost of $2.00.

PUBLIC HEARING Council will hold a public hearing on the 5th day of January, A.D., 2016 at 8:00 p.m in the Town of Biggar council Chambers to hear any person or group who wants to comment on the proposed bylaw. Council will also consider written comments received at the hearing or delivered to the undersigned at the municipal office before the hearing.

Issued at Biggar, Saskatchewan, this 17th day of December, A.D., 2015.

Barb Barteski, Chief Administrative Officer

the past, Y.T. tried a few of his own that he had seen here and there.

“Muddy Road Ahead” sure sounded good too, yet with a bit of memory of those clay patches when Y.T. was (ahem) “courting” Phyllis! And “Gone with the Wind” seemed a good title too, but it reminded me of a lot of farm fields in the “Dirty Thirties”. Also, one of the Mitchel girls had used it before somewhere!

What is a greenhorn “wannabe” fiction writer supposed to do! Here we are, half done this column, and we haven’t even gotten to the title yet!

Finally Yours Truly found an old book he had, that said, “How to Write Good Fiction!”

“First of all,” it read, “We need a good title.”

“Blah, blah – blahblah-blah . . . and blah!”

We’ve already done some looking into that piece of advice, so let’s move on.

Plot: aha, now we’re getting somewhere!

Romance: well,

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015 romance seems to be a guy somewhere before – fiction, one of writers agiarism already, eh?

Romance! Since way most popular subjects.

“He grabbed her by back in our school days, the long black hair and Y.T. has always connectdragged her away to his ed romance with Julius cave!”

Caesar (who was a Yours Truly read that Roman) but Wayne and gripping line over a few Schuster threw a wrench times before he real- into those romantic ized that that romantic times when they promaneuver went out of duced “Big Julie” on T.V. style even before Homer After taking one look picked up his pen! Back at “Cleopatra” though, Yours Truly isn’t sure to the book!

Drama and appear- what “romance” is!

Even “Rock ‘em, Sock ance it read: (both invented in the USA) we ‘em” Westerns don’t can’t all be “Built like appeal as much as they the god Appolo, of limb, used to in the days when fair as Adonis of face!” most people knew what Although Hollywood has horses were!

Having forgotten what searched the world trying to find a person like most of the headings in that! For real, rugged, that old book were all intelligent men, they about, Phyllis and Y.T. find many of them north decided that mebbe Y.T. had better stick with of the 49th parallel!

“He swung his axe at poetry! Let’s see . . .

“When I was down the attacking wolves, in an attempt to defend beside the sea, “A little spade was himself, but finally one of them closed in and bit given me.”

On third thought, his left. Picking up the jawbone of a nearby buf- mebbe we’ll just keep on falo skeleton he ‘slew the scrawling a bit for this column. whole back!”

Too bad, eh?

Hey! Wait a minute, Y.T. read about that

Canadian National 4-H and Youth Judging Competition The 2015 Canadian National 4-H and Youth Judging Competition was held on November 22-24, during Canadian Western Agribition.

Approximately 50 4-H members and postsecondary youth from across the country attended this prestigious event.

The following 4-H Saskatchewan members represented our province at this event: Savannah Cheney, Gregory Gillis, Sara Grassick, Dylan Haynes, Ariana Mulder and Kayley Paskell.

Congratulations to our competitors for reaching one of the highest levels of achievement in 4-H Judging!

A special thank you also to the 4-H Saskatchewan team’s chaperone, Nicole Panter!

Competitors judged the following classes on the Monday of the event: hay, grain, beef steaks, dairy, feeder steers, feeder heifers,

Charolais bull calves, Hereford heifer calves, light horse, Shorthorn heifer calves, Speckled Park bred heifers and Glebvieh bred heifers.

Competitors gave oral reasons on eight of these classes to a series of professional judges.

Tuesday’s activities consisted of an awards banquet for the competitors, where sponsors shared greetings, committee members were introduced and the final results of the competition were announced! The results were as follows: Grand Aggregate ($2,500 scholarship and 1st Lady Classic Judge) – Cassandra Gorrill, 4-H Ontario; Second Place ($1,250 John Deere Limited Scholarship) – Cassidy Ross, University

of Manitoba; Third Place ($750 John Deere Limited Scholarship) – Dylan Haynes, 4-H Saskatchewan (pictured below); Fourth Place (Cash Prize of $300) Mikyla Sullivan, University of Saskatchewan; Fifth Place (Cash Prize of $150) – Ashley Ringdal, University of Saskatchewan; Second Place Team Award (highest score per top four members on a team) – 4-H Saskatchewan.

Congratulations to Dylan Haynes of the Monarch Multiple 4-H Club in the North West Region.

Apart from receiving the John Deere Limited Scholarship, as listed above, Dylan also received recognition for having the highest score in the hay judging class.

WATCH for

Doreen’s Discount Day @ Leslie’s Drugstore Biggar • 306-948-3397

Dylan Haynes, right, accepts his $750 scholarship from John Deere Canada. (Submitted photo)

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Chef Dez on cooking

Pies for Holiday Desserts

The fondest memory I have from my childhood is one that I hold dear to my heart.

Fitted with an oversized apron and a smile from ear to ear, I was 6 years old on a stool rolling out pie pastry along side my Mom. While she made the large pies for the family, I rolled out pastry for miniature imitations formed to the confines of empty, metal chip-dip containers.

I was very proud and happy to be a part of the preparation for such a wonderful treat.

Pies are a very traditional way to end a meal on certain holidays throughout the year, and especially at Christmas time. Pumpkin is always a favourite pie among many for the holidays, but numerous different pies can and will be made and enjoyed.

Pies are basically made up of a shell or crust, with a flavourful filling, and can be divided into two groups: baked or unbaked.

Baked pies are obviously ones with raw pie shells that are filled and then baked. The unbaked category represents prebaked pie shells that are

15123RP2

filled with a prepared filling and then chilled to set before serving.

The pie dough that makes up these shells can also be divided into two categories: flaky dough or mealy dough.

Flaky dough is usually a pastry that has a mixture of shortening and butter that is “cut in” so that there are small chunks still left in the finished product. This aids in creating steam, which helps with the leavening process and thus creating the flaky texture.

Mealy dough is one that is usually made with butter that is mixed in more thoroughly, and when baked has a texture much like tender shortbread. This is because the flour particles are more coated with fat and thus less gluten is formed.

Once you have decided on the type of crust to make, it is time to decide on the filling.

Basically there are four choices: fruit, custard, cream, or chiffon.

All fillings require the existence of a starch or stabilizer to ensure that it holds together when sliced. Fruit and cream fillings use starches, such as cornstarch for

their stability, while custard filling use the stabilization of eggs coagulation for their firmness.

Examples of custard pies are ones such as pumpkin, pecan, and key lime pies. Chiffon pies usually use a combination of starch or gelatine with whipped eggs whites folded in.

Baking is a science and recipes are the formulas. For the reasons listed here and for many others, it is important to follow these recipes exactly in order to have a successful outcome.

Whatever pie or other dessert you choose to finish your holiday meals with, I wish you, your families, friends, and loved ones all the best in health and happiness this upcoming holiday season.

Dear Chef Dez: I have heard and known that it is best to keep pie pastry as cold possible to prevent melting the butter and shortening pieces. What is the best way of doing this?

Douglas C. Langley, B.C. Dear Douglas: The best way of doing this is to first focus on your ingredients.

Make sure you are using ice water instead of cold water, and frozen butter grated into the flour mixture is ideal.

The frozen butter particles then are already the required size from the grater and will not suffer from the warm friction of too much mixing or “cutting” it in.

Secondly, try not to touch the dough with

your hands, as the warmth from them will melt the butter. It is best to form the dough by folding it over consistently with a metal dough cutter (bench scraper).

Once the dough is formed, wrap and place it in the refrigerator until thoroughly chilled.

Remove and proceed with rolling, ideally on a chilled marble surface.

Once shaped, refrigerate for approximately ten more minutes before baking.

I have even heard that using vodka from the freezer (instead of the ice water in your recipe) will produce a flakier

crust!

Send your food/cooking questions to dez@ chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, B.C., V2T 6R4. Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Travel Host and Cookbook Author. Visit him at chefdez.com.

New Horizons Activities

by Janice Foley, Coordinator What a disappointment!

After all that lovely weather, the ice-fog set in and caused the cancellation of our bus trip on December 9.

However, at this time we are all set to go again on Friday, Dec. 18, with everyone looking forward to that last minute shopping and the lovely lights at the Enchanted Forest.

Monday Kaiser had three tables playing.

First was Geoff Cooke with 241 points, second was Marie Roesch with 210 points, third was Grant Gamble with 186, and Reg Turner placed fourth with 176 points.

Grant Gamble and Mildred Henne tied the highest scoring game

with 67 points.

Carpet bowling had two teams playing on Dec. 8. In first place was the team of Marie Roesch, Aileen Smith, Dinah Kegler, Jean Tweddle, and Mildred Henne.

Second place was the team of Judy Rickwood, Pat Turner, Florence Hammond, Nicole Otterson, Blanche Borchardt and Gail Herzberg.

The Christmas Raffle draw was done on Monday Dec. 14 as planned (not the 18th as I erroneously typed last week).

Emily Liska and Pat Turner made the draws for the winning tickets from the drum and winners of the prizes were as follows. Afghan donated

by Marg Molberg: Jean Schommer; Certificate to Biggar Sausage and

More donated by Rita and Gord Besse: Larry Herzberg; and the Super A $100 Gift Certificate donated by Board of Biggar New Horizons: Ann Muc. Congratulations everyone!

Our monthly potluck half-n-half winner was Heather Gidluck. The Birthday Potluck was held on Dec. 14 and after our filling meal, loaded with wonderful deserts, we were treated to an outstanding performance by the students of BCS 2000. Imagine our delight when not just one class showed up to sing, but all the elementary grades! Thank you so much students and staff, for your lovely renditions of Christmas Carols.

Early Deadline!

Friday at noon is the deadline for ads, classifieds , and news

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Food safety and increased trade access

by Calvin Daniels

The world of food production and safety is an increasingly complicated world to understand.

On one hand we have countries trying to find common ground with trading partners to create framework agreements to smooth trade.

In Canada a recent example is this country being a signatory to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

“The TPP is a trade agreement among 12 Pacific Rim countries concerning a variety of matters of economic policy, which was reached on Oct. 5 2015, after seven-years of negotiations,” detailed Wikipedia. “The agreements stated goal had been to “promote economic growth; support the creation and retention of jobs; enhance innovation, productivity and competitiveness; raise living standards; reduce poverty in our countries; and promote transpar-

ency, good governance, and enhanced labour and environmental protections.” Among other things, the TPP Agreement contains measures to lower trade barriers such as tariffs, and establish an investorstate dispute settlement mechanisms.”

There are proponents of the TPP, with some seeing it as the key to stimulating our economy.

And others the TPP is an abyss we are about to be sucked into, with great detriment to our ability to create Canada-only policy on a host of trade goods.

As is the case in most of these things history will likely show it is neither a complete disaster, but hardly a lynchpin moment in Canadian trade.

But it will be intriguing to see how the deal shakes out because there are significant differences country to country in

what is deemed reasonable and safe, especially in terms of food.

That is a critical consideration for farm producers, as they are the primary producers of our food.

In terms of extreme diff ferences I was intrigued by an online posting forwarded my way recently on a U.S. judge’s decision.

“A California judge recently dismissed two lawsuits that claimed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) illegally approved a harmful drug additive – ractopamine hydrochloride – used in animal feed,” reported healthyy holistic-living.com g .

Now I will not suggest the Web site does not have a decided tilt in its view of what deems safe food, and do not agree with much of the rhetoric you will find there.

But ractopamine is something that is not without controversy.

“Ractopamine is a feed additive to promote leanness in animals raised for their meat. Pharmacologically, it is a betaadrenergic agonist. It is the active ingredient in products known as Paylean for swine and Optaflexx for cattle, developed by Elanco Animal Health, a division of Eli Lilly and Company, for

use in food animals for growth promotion,” from Wikipedia.

“Ractopamine use has been banned in most countries, including the European Union, mainland China and Russia, while 27 other countries, such as Japan, the United States, Canada, and South Korea, have deemed meat from livestock fed ractopamine safe for human consumption.”

It is interesting that a Yorkton-area cattle producer who is marketing beef directly to stores in China under

his own labelled packaging noted that one key aspect of accessing that market is testing each carcass to make sure it is ractopamine-free.

That is interesting when you think of the sheer size potential of the Chinese market moving forward, a barrier such as ractopamine could be something of a detriment to accessing the market.

There is obviously something to think about with ractopamine is some 150 countries have banned it.

Certainly in North

America we have come to trust the agencies which approve what drugs and additives are safe for us to put on the dinner table and consume.

But many countries are far from sure ractopamine should be on that list.

And then you overlay trade deals, and wonder what the fine print might mean in terms of accessing country-tocountry markets in spite of bans and barriers.

Interesting food safety issues set against trade access times seem to be ahead.

Every member of the U.S. Senate received a letter December 9 from about 250 U.S. companies and trade associations, siding with Canada’s long-standing position against the U.S. protectionist policy on meat-labelling.

The Trade Minister needs to immediately identify the first U.S. goods Canada intends to impose retaliatory measure on and keep pressure on the U.S. Senate until they repeal COOL. “I made numerous trips to Washington, D.C., the past few years on the issue of COOL. Our Canadian livestock industry supply chain

was always a part of those delegations,” said Gerry Ritz, International Trade Critic.

“Together we pressured key members of Congress and worked with the U.S. industry affirming Canada’s position, warning of retaliatory measures,” continued Ritz. “It’s good to see our hard work on behalf of Canadian farmers and ranchers paying off, and our message resonating with U.S. companies.”

Canada was authorized Tuesday by the World Trade Organization (WTO) to implement over $1 billion in retaliatory measures against the United States’ protectionist Country of

Origin Labelling (COOL) policy.

“I strongly encourage the Agriculture Minister to seek a full repeal of COOL,” said Chris Warkentin, Opposition Critic for Agriculture and Agri-Food.

“The Minister needs to stop waiting for the U.S. inaction and start taking action on behalf of Canadian farmers and ranchers to end these blatantly protectionist rules.”

It is imperative that the Liberal Government take immediate measures to show that they will fight for our farmers in forcing the US to repeal COOL.

Liberals must telegraph tariff intent

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

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10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Opening found . . . Biggar Central School Senior Blazers hosted Asquith, December 9. Blazers couldn’t quite find their game, falling 64-46. They came back strong later in the week to take top spot at the Kindersley tourney. (Indepen-

1st Aid Course

Taking bookings for courses in January inquire about the online course (Limit of 10 per course)

dent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

phone: 306-951-7700

Biggar & District Arts Council presents…

OLT H C R A M E TH SATURDAY,

JAN. 9

UINTET Q7:30 p.m.

The Majestic Theatre, Biggar

DOOR OPENS @ 7 p.m.

Tickets available at de Moissac Jewellers…

Adults/Seniors… advance, $20, at the door $25; Students… advance, $12, at the door $15; 12 and under, $5

… presented by Biggar & District Arts Council, Stars for Saskatchewan Series Patrons… de Moissac Jewellers, Westwinds Motor Hotel , Shop Easy Foods, Wylie Seeds, Biggar & Landis Insurance Services, Hammond Realty/Cari Perih Sponsors…

Biggar & District Credit Union

~Cari Perih~

CAM-DON MOTORS LTD.

Marilyn Whiteford Home Care RN treats people who suffer from painful foot conditions

Perdue, Sask.

2011 F-250 4X4, REG CAB, 6.2 GAS, 107KM .....................................................$23,900 2010 FORD FOCUS SES, 100,000KM, very good, SK TAX PD ............................$ PECIAL 9,900 2010 F-150 XLT 4X4, CREW CAB, 100,000KM, VERY GOOD .......................................$21,900 2008 Ford Escape XLT, 99,000KM, VERY GOOD ..............................................$14,900 2008 F-150 S.C. 4X4, 4.6 AUTO, 195,000KM VERY GOOD .......................................$ 7,900 2007 F-150 XL, REG CAB, 2WD, V8 STD, ONLY 98,000KM, NEW CLUTCH, very good .......................................................$ 7,900 2004 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS ULTIMATE, 110,000KM, SK TAX PD....................$ 5,900

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2002 F-150 XLT 4x4, REG CAB, LONG BOX, 5.4 AUTO. ASK US! EX. GOVT UNIT .............coming 2002 F-150 2W, 4.2V6, auto, reg cab, long box, only 36km! Ex. Govt Unit....... $ 7,250 2001 ACCURA MDX, LOCAL, LOADED..$ 6,900 2010 KENWORTH T660 DAYCAB, 500HP, 18 SPD, FRESH SAFETY ..........................$57,900 1998 IHC 8100, 300HP, 10 SPD, 300,000 MILES, NEW 20’ BOX, FRESH SAFETY.....$52.900 1995 IHC 9200 DAYCAB MII CUMMINS, 9 SPD, 450,000KM, NEAR NEW RUBBER ..$19,900

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Help Us Help You

This Podiatry/Wound Care Management chair means patients will experience foot care more comfortably and staff will be able to provide appropriate foot care.

Support the purchase of a

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Please Give Generously

Biggar & District

HEALTH SERVICES FOUNDATION INC. Box 1003, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 Supporting Health Services in Our Community

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

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12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

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Main Street Market • Your Community Grocer!

Main St., Biggar • 306-948-3337

*Check out our weekly flyer for more great specials!!!

Save an extra

$1.00

with Coupon get the app. g

Stove Top Stuffing, 98¢ Kraft, 120 g

NABOB T Tradition Coffee

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Biggar B g

eight Loss

& Wellness Centre Making Biggar Smaller

For the hard-to-buy-for lady or gent!

GIFTT CERTIFIICATES Anne Livingston, C tifi d SSpiritual Certified i it l Raindrop Facilitator and IP Weight Loss Coach

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First Fi irst rs st session sessio siion on FREE FR REE EE. E. Minute packages available.

Call or stop by!

over the past 40 plus years! … Anne

OPEN REGULAR HOURS… MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8 - 6 • Dec. 24, closing early •

Call Cal all ll 306-948-7274 4 317 Main St. (across from The Majestic Theatre)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT , BIGGAR, SK - 13

Ă˜â€Śback in stock

Doreen’s Discount Days DEC. 17, 18 & 21

15% off

DIAMOND EARRINGS

(some exceptions apply)

Moving M i g St Stone Jewellery Jew ll y J

starting at $149

2OUGHRIDER Swag s ,OTTERY s ,OTTERY 4ERMINAL ,OT ,O OTT TTE TERR Y 4E 4ERRM 4E s &2%% (OME $ELIVERY s &,5 s &,5 3(/4 ,5 3 3(/ (/4 no charge ge s 4EST YOUR "LOOD 0RESSURE &2%% 4E T "LOOD " L 0RESSURE &2 2%%

OPEN Late for Christmas‌ O Thurs, T hur hu Dec. 17 -- 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. .m. m.

Mon., Dec. 21, Tues., Dec. 22, Mo 7EE 7ED $EC s A M P M 7ED 4HU 4HURS $EC s P M 4HU URS

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ss P P M

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306-948-2452 48-2 -245 452

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≤ Disney “Frozenâ€? DOLLS ≤CHOCOLATES, assorted‌$5.77 ≤NUTS, assorted varieties ≤Magnetic BRACELETS, choice of styles, starting at $14.99 ≤Fashion WATCHES, $14.99 ≤SCARVES, starting at $15.99 ≤Christmas PINS ≤Jigsaw PUZZLES ≤DVDs, previously used‌ $9.99 ≤Picture FRAMES, Inspirational ART

Leslie’s Drugstore 205 Main St., Biggar • 306-948-3397 •

TVs -- LED, 4K, Smart & Not So Smart 22� and up, starting @

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now in effect for kitchen 55� �C Curved d 4K TV‌

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‘Paderno’ Kitchenware up to 74% off Apple Products -iPad, iMac, iPhone, iPod ‘Breville’ Small Kitchen Appliances,

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Check out our FitBits s and Smart Watches

Skullcandy Headphones,

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15% offf‌ ear buds, wireless, stylish

OPEN BOXING DAY, SAT. DEC. 26

BIGGAR LEISURE (AVU) 216 Main Street • Biggar • 306.948.2266 Store Hours‌ Tues. - Sat., 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Prices in effect from Dec. 18 - Dec. 24

NEW‌

3 checkouts NOW to SERVE YOU BETTER!!!

Extended Shopping Hours‌ open until 7 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 21, Tuesday, Dec. 22, Wednesday, Dec 23.

Open until 4:00 p.m. on December 24.

PRE-BOOK “FRESH� Buns for Christmas by noon December 23 for pickup on Dec. 24 Don’t be disappointed!

Saturday, December 26 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

REDEEM YOUR TURKEY BUCKS to DECEMBER 31st, 2015

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

New Year’s Eve THURS., DEC. 31 Live B Liv Li Band Band… nd

“Pa “P Pas as

”

• Midnight Champagne RESERVATIONS NS

HOURS: MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. • SATURDAY, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

M Merry erry y

Open through lunch hours

C Christmas!

Chris hristmas! hris h istmas! and d

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We hope you enjoy every ry moment of this special season season.

May it find you surrounded by love, friendship and happiness!

Thanks for choosing us.

We greatly appreciate your trust and support!

WESTWINDS MOTOR HOTEL

…Management and Staff of North American Lumber

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It’s time…

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•Poinsettias Stop in or call today.

With ou r de for your epest gratitud e Have a kind patronage b . e autiful Ann, Vi hol rginia, Karen a iday! nd fami lies

Designs by Ann

121 Main Street, Biggar •

306-948-3666 0 •

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO OUR MEMBERS The board of directors of Duperow Co-op is pleased to announce an equity repayment to all eligible members, including seniors and the general membership. The payment is based on 2014 purchases as stated on your January 31, 2015 equity statement.

The cheques (510) range in size from the minimum $10 to $28,736, for a total of $413,851.

Following is a summary of payments during the year with comparison to previous years: 2012 2013 2014 2015 4 YEAR TOTAL General payment 245,745 278,795 294,698 297,130 Seniors, estates 98,316 121,585 101,646 117661 Withholding tax 61,867 72,438 72,946 67509 405,928 472,818 469,290 482,300 $1,830,336 This payment rewards the community for participating in the co-operative ownership of Duperow Co-op, Federated Co-operatives Limited, the Regina Co-op Upgrader/Refinery, and the Co-op Retailing System.

Thank you for your support and we wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Ted Craig, Manager Robert Hammond, President

Dwayne Zagoruy, Secretary

Collin Gabriel, Vice-president

Wes Goring, Director

Don Morton, Director

Greg Eppich, Director

Holiday Hours: Closed December 24, Noon, - December 28.

Open December 29, 30 31.

Closed January 1.

Open January 4.

30 306-948-2706

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

30th Annual Big Buck night Biggar Bowling Centre scores There were over 226 in attendance and 45 heads were scored by Jim Wiebe assisted by Colin Berglund and Bently Colbin assisted by Ron Young, December 5 at the Sonningdale Hall.

Typical White Tail Deer: Big Buck: First – Perry Haansen, Grandora, 174 7/8; Second – John Leschinski, Biggar, 170 7/8.

Youth (16 and under): First – Hayden Ouellette, Biggar, 156 0/8; Second – Nicholas Lovenuk, Biggar, 126 1/8.

Good Old Boys (55 and over): First – Larry Marchewka, Cando, 136 4/8; Second, Russell Beaudion, Maymont, 133 0/8.

Ladies: First – Sydney Rempel, North Battleford, 167 3/8; Second – Mallery Wattence, Saskatoon, 136 0/8.

“Chase The Ace” at The Legion Fridays

WATCH for Doreen’s Discount Day at

Leslie’s Drugstore

Friday at noon is the deadline for ads, classifieds , and news

Early Deadline!

Biggar • 306-948-3397

Non Typical White Tail Deer: Big Buck: First – Gordie May, Biggar, 216 7/8; Second – Robert Bullock, Landis, 203 4/8.

Youth: First – Colton Poitras,North Battleford, 142 2/8; Second – Landon Ouellette, Biggar, 88 2/8.

Good Old Boys: First – Alen Preignitz,

15123MF0

Maymount, 148 6/8; Second – Frank Lato, Saskatoon, 148 0/8.

Ladies: First – Connie Shuh, Maymount, 134 3/8; Second: No Entry.

Typical Mule Deer: Big Buck: First – Brody Ellis, Biggar, 182 7/8.

Non Typical Mule Deer: Big Buck: First – Leroy Nicotine Jr., North Battleford, 244 4/8.

(December 7-11) Monday Mixed League: MHS – Reg Horner, 228; WHS – Cindy Watson, 247; MHT – Gerry Devenny, 522; WHT – Cindy Watson, 547.

Tuesday New Horizons: MHS – Jack Eckart, 235; WHS – Barb Archibald, 150; MHT – Jack Eckart, 594; WHT

– Barb Archibald, 393.

Thursday Seniors League: MHS – Glen Shockey, 221; WHS – Dianna Meger, 201; MHT – Glen Shockey, 546; WHT – Diana Meger, 520.

Thursday’s Y.B.C.: Bowlasaurus: High Score – Dominic Raschke, 78. Pee Wee:

High Score – Sawyer Heimbecker, 70; High Double – Sawyer Heimbecker, 125.

Bantam: High Score – Kiersten Raschke, 117; High Triple – Kiersten Raschke, 303. Juniors: High Score – Madison Genaille, 173; High Triple – Madison Genaille, 447.

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

WATCH for

Biggar Nationals (7) @ Kindersley Red Lions (12)

Doreen’s Discount Day Leslie’s Drugstore Main Street, Biggar • 306-948-3397

Thurs., Dec. 17

20% off Fragrance Sat., Dec. 19 Bath Lines‌OPI, barefoot venus

CONTINUES‌ Fri., Dec. 18

15% off Essential Oils/ Diffusers Mon., Dec. 21

30% off Purses

30% off Tues., Dec. 22 Ambiescents

20% off

Wed., Dec. 23 Artwork/Wall Hangings

25% off

Thurs., Dec. 24 Frames‌ 30%

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

off

HOLIDAY HOURS‌ Dec. 17 - 23, regular hours; Dec. 24, 8:30 - 5:30; CLOSED, Dec. 25, 26, 27; Dec. 28 - 30, regular hours; Dec. 31, 8:30-5:30; CLOSED, Jan 1; Jan. 2, 9 - 5 p.m.

(Friday, December 11) Scoring: Nationals – (1st) 2, (2nd) 2, (3rd) 3, Total: 7. Red Lions – (1st) 8, (2nd) 1, (3rd) 3, Total: 12.

Shots: Nationals – (1st) 12, (2nd) 22, (3rd) 23, Total: 57. Red Lions – (1st) 29, (2nd) 9, (3rd) 14, Total: 52.

Power Plays: Nationals – 0 for 6. Red Lions – 0 for 4.

Scoring Summary Period 1: Red Lions at 18:53 – Brandon Cummings from Byron Ismond; Red Lions at 17:41 – Jesse Ismond from Jonny Calkins and Chad Dorsett; Red Lions at 13:23 – Levi Clark from Tanner McCullough and Djay McGrath; Red Lions at 13:11 – Levi Clark

from Shayne Neigum; Red Lions at 9:22 – Brandon Cummings (unassisted); Nationals at 8:31 – Derek Argue from Travis Granbois and Steve Makway; Red Lions at 5:59 – Chris Forsman from Jonny Calkins; Nationals at 3:31 – Steve Makway from Travis Granbois and Matt Bourgeois; Red Lions at 0:58 – Jonny Calkins from Jesse Ismond and Chad Dorsett; Red Lions at 0:36 – Jon Haughn from Shayne Neigum and Brandon Cummings.

Period 2: Red Lions at 16:13 – Brandon Cummings from Shayne Neigum and John Haughn; Nationals at 9:23 – Jared McLeod

from Trevor Bailey and Travis Granbois; Nationals at 7:05 – Steve Makway from Travis Granbois.

Period 3: Red Lions at 19:21 – Shayne Neigum from Vaughn Penley; Nationals at 14:24 – Steve Makway from Liam Boyle and Evan deBussac; Red Lions at 13:41 – Levi Clark from Tanner McCullough; Nationals at 10:15 – Travis Granbois from Trevor Bailey and Steve Makway; Nationals at 6:11 – Travis Granbois from Trevor Bailey; Red Lions at 4:43 – Brandon Cummings (unassisted).

Penalty Summary Period 1: Red Lions at 15:09 – Chad Dorsett for Hooking

(2); Nationals at 10:45 – Team Penalty for Too Many Men (2); Nationals at 5:54 – Travis Granbois for Slashing (2); Red Lions at 3:05 – Chris Forsman for Hooking (2).

Period 2: Red Lions at 12:01 – Jesse Ismond for Hooking (2); Red Lions at 5:10 – Bobby McLean for Slashing (2).

Period 3: Nationals at 15:01 – Travis Skirving for Interference (2); Red Lions at 2:47 – Byron Ismond for Slashing (2); Red Lions at 2:47 – Christ Forsman for Roughing After Whistle (2); Nationals at 2:47 – Trevor Bailey for Roughing After Whistle (2).

Biggar Nationals (8) @ Unity Miners (7) (Saturday, December 12) Scoring: Nationals – (1st) 3, (2nd) 4, (3rd) 0, OT1: 1, Total: 8. Miners – (1st) 3; (2nd) 2, (3rd) 2, OT1: 0, Total: 7.

Shots: Nationals – (1st) 10, (2nd) 10, (3rd) 10, OT1: 2, Total: 32.

Miners – (1st) 10, (2nd) 10, (3rd) 10, OT1: 2, Total: 32.

Power Plays: Nationals – 0 for 9.

Miners – 0 for 8.

Scoring Summary Period 1: Miners at 18:55 – Behn Robertson from Michael Shirley and Cody McCubbing; Nationals at 17:32 – Travis Granbois from Trevor Bailey and Steve Makway; Miners at 16:25 – Behn Robertson from Brydon Zybtovsky and Michael Shirley; Nationals at 10:34 –

Travis Granbois and Steve Makway and Kevin Fick; Nationals at 4:48 – Travis Granbois and Trevor Bailey; Miners at 1:06 – Behn Robertson from Brydon Zybtovsky and Cam Chalmers.

Period 2: Miners at 18:38 – Michael Shirley from Dustin McAleer and Brydon Zybtovsky; Miners at 13:00 – Behn Robertson from Cody McCubbing; Nationals at 10:14 – Trevor Bailey from Travis Granbois and Steve Makway; Nationals at 8:08 – Dylan Haynes from Trevor Bailey; Nationals at 6:42 – Travis Granbois from Trevor Bailey and Matt Poitras; Nationals at 4:37 – Clark McNulty

from Steve Makway and Derek Argue.

Period 3: Miners at 9:28 – Behn Robertson from Adam Shirley and Michael Shirley; Miners at 1:46 – Adam Shirley from Michael Shirley and Trace Sperle.

Overtime Period 1: Nationals at 4:40 – Trevor Bailey from Travis Granbois and Steve Makway.

Penalty Summary Period 1: Nationals at 19:35 – Trevor Bailey for Hooking (2); Miners at 13:02 – Rob Jackson for Elbowing (2); Miners at 9:02 – Adam Shirley for Misconduct (10), Unsportsmanlike Conduct (2); Miners at 9:02 – Josh Lacousiere for Slashing (2); Nationals at 3:40 –

Kevin Fick for Cross Checking (2).

Period 2: Nationals at 17:18 – Travis Granbois for Holding (2); Miners at 15:08 – Dustin McAleer for Hooking (2).

Period 3: Nationals at 10:31 – Keaton Silvernagle for Boarding (2); Nationals at 9:23 – Liam Boyle for Cross Checking (2); Miners at 9:17 – Dillon Beliveau for Misconduct (10), Roughing (2); Nationals at 9:17 – Steve Makway for Misconduct (10), Roughing (2); Nationals at 7:30 – Dylan Haynes for Interference (2); Miners at 7:08 – Adam Shirley for High Sticking (2); Miners at 0:23 – Devan Bertoia for Slashing (2).

.BJO 4U #JHHBS t 306-948-3315 HOURS: Monday - Friday, 8:30 - 7 p.m., Saturday, 9 - 5

Biggar Senior Nationals Hockey Club presents‌ Duane Neufeldt

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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 26 Q N t #JHHBS $PNNVOJUZ )BMM %PPST 0QFO t Q N %BODF t Q N .VTJD CZ 1SFDJTJPO 4PVOET %+ QFS QFSTPO BU EPPS GPS EBODF POMZ Tickets available @ Biggar Credit Union, Town of Biggar, Westwinds Motor Hotel and Nats Home games.

No Minors Allowed

1,391 sq ft bungalow, 4 bed, 2 bath, double attached garage, located just 4 miles north east of Biggar; 122 cultivated acres; Artesian well with unlimited water; Quonset, heated shop and barn. Many upgrades. ....... MLS $499,000

FARM & RANCH‌ 2304 sq ft twostorey house, 4 bdrm, 4 bath, 292 acres in RM 347. ‌MLS $699,000

306-948-8055 301 - 7th Ave. E., Biggar...

960 sq ft., 3 bdrm, 2 bath, home. Double detached garage, finished basement, large deck, many upgrades.

‌MLS $259,000

236 - 3rd Ave. E., Biggar...

1599 sq. ft. 1-ž storey Character home. Main floor encompasses kitchen, dining, living, laundry and 2-pce bath. Second floor, all three bedrooms and main bath. Basement level‌ recreational rooms with 3-pce bath, utility and storage rooms. Many recent upgrades. ‌MLS $249,900

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

tth he

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17

Obituaries

Obituaries

Nathan Kirk Charles Schweder

Michael George Hango

November 11, 1980 - December 2, 2015 It is with great sadness we mourn the passing of Nate Schweder.

His infectious laugh, huge smile and his genuine love for life and the people around him will be missed by all his friends and family.

To celebrate Nate’s life a Memorial Service was held on Tuesday, December 8, 2015 at 11 a.m. from St. Gabriel Roman Catholic Church, Biggar, Sask. with Father Michel Bedard as celebrant.

Crossbearer was James Ress; readers were Wade Burton, Stephen Kolberg and Kevin Robillard; Eulogist was Bob Steeg. Honourary Urn Bearers were all those who shared in Nate’s life. Active Urn Bearers were Stuart and Joe Schweder.

Interment followed in Biggar Cemetery, Biggar, Sask.

Nate is survived by his mother, Laurie (Tom) Clague of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.; his brother, Stuart Schweder of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.; sister, Kiki ( James) Ress of Fort Saskatchewan, Alta.; brother, Joe ( Jayme) Schweder and children, Rayne, Kade and Parker of Wetaskiwin, Alta.; sister, Janelle (Dylan) Tait of Meota, Sask.; grandmother, Joy Sherbino of Biggar, Sask.; along with numerous extended family. Nate was predeceased by his father, Larry Schweder; his grandparents, Charles Sherbino, Les and Lorraine Schweder.

Tributes may be directed to Leipzig Serenity Centre, Box 535, Wilkie, SK, S0K 4W0 or Orchard Island Treatment Centre, Bowen Island, B.C. Grondin Funeral Services, Biggar entrusted with arrangements, “Our family serving your family since 1963�. bfsc1

March 18, 1929 - November 30, 2015 Michael Hango passed away November 18, 2015 in Saskatoon, Sask. at the age of 86 years.

He was born March 18, 1929 in Wilkie, Sask.

Prayers were held Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 7 p.m. from St. James Roman Catholic Church, Wilkk ie, Sask. Mass of Christian Burial was held Friday, December 4, 2015 at 10:30 a.m. from Our Lady of Assumption Roman Catholic Church, Handel, Sask. with Father George Chatholil as celebrant. Eulogist was his son, Fred Hango. Gift Bearers were granddaughters, Amanda Wallace and Trisha Dennis; Intercessions were Brett Weese and Tammie Kulyk. Honour Guard was the Knights of Columbus. Honourary Bearers were all those who shared in Mike’s life; Active Bearers were his grandchildren. Interment was held in Handel Catholic Cemetery, Handel, Sask. Reception followed in Handel Community Hall.

Mike is survived by nine children, Dennis, Anne (Wayne), Glenn, Ron, Keith (Theresa), Jerome ( Joanne), Janet (Randy) England, Helen (Gerald) Weese, Barb ( Joe) Beloin, Fred (Darlene); brother, Bill Hango; 25 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his wife, Frances; and sister, Olga Foster.

Tributes may be directed to Wilkie Poplar Courts, Box 459, Wilkie, SK, S0K 4W0 Grondin Funeral Services, Biggar entrusted with arrangements, “Our family serving your family since 1963�. gfsc1

SMITH, Norman and Florence and LOCKWOOD, Florence: In our hearts and minds at Christmas‌ Our Dad/Grandpa, March 29, 1925 December 20, 1995; Our Mom/Nannie, March 27, 1930 April 23, 1997; Our Mom/Grandma/ Great-Grandma, March 23, 1912 - June 17, 1995.

Missing you and thinking of you everyday‌ Kelly, Floyd, Amanda (Ryan), Jeffrey and Makenzie 51c1 KISSER, Michael: In loving memory oour beloved Dad, grandpa and greatgrandpa who passed away December 20, 2013. “In our hearts your memory lingers Sweetly tender, fond and true There is not a day dear Father That we do not think of you.â€?

Loved and missed forevery by your dauther, Glenda; grandchildren, Sonya and Chad and family 51p1

Coming Events Employment Opportunity

FULL-TIME CASHIER Biggar Pharmasave is currently accepting resumes for the position of Front Store Cashier. The Cashier oversees customer transactions, manages inventory and other duties.

Applicants should possess superior communication and organization skills, a strong work ethic, and blend well as part of a team. Only those who qualifty for an interview will be contacted.

For more information or to apply please contact: Heather Hawkins Phone: 306-948-3315 Fax: 306-948-3360 Email: hhawkins@rubiconpharmacies.com

The Independent will be

CLOSED @ noon on Dec. 24 &

OPEN Monday, Jan. 4

MEMORIAM MILLARD, Jean: October 17, 1941 December 17, 2010 “We hold you tightly in our hearts And there you will remain.

You see, life has gone on without you, But will never be the same.�

Remembered by Neil Millard and family 51p1 MUC, Tom: November 26, 1959 - December 23, 2005 “We remember the times we laughed and cried together, Were angry with each other, or overjoyed together.

You’re in our hearts and memories everyday.�

Love‌ Mom, Clayton, Amy, Brent, Jerry, Brenda, and families 51p1

Coming

MEMORIAM

BIGGAR ASSOCIATED GOSPEL CHURCH corner of 8th Ave.W. and Quebec St., Biggar

Sunday Worship • 10:50 a.m.

Sunday School, 9:45 a.m.

Ladies Bible Study, Wednesdays, 9:45 a.m.

Church office number, 306-948-3424, Terry Wicks, Pastor

BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH 907 Quebec St. and corner Turnbull Ave., Biggar Sunday Worship Service • 11 a.m.

Coffee and fellowship to follow service.

Potluck after service on first Sunday of the month.

Y SCHOOL‌ first two Sundays of each month.

SUNDAY Dec. 20‌ Joy Singers Choir music & Sunday School Nativity service.

Dec. 24‌ Christmas Eve Service, 7:30 p.m.

Church office number, 306-948-2280, Rev. Jane Gallagher.

PRESBYTERIANS, ANGLICANS AND LUTHERANS (PALS) DECEMBER R WORSHIPP @ ST. PAUL’S ANGLICAN CHURCH 319 - 7th Ave. East, Biggar • 10:30 a.m.

Dec. 24 ~ Christmas Eve Service @ @St. Paul’s, 7 p.m. p Dec. 25 ~ Christmas Day, 10:30 a.m. @ Redeemer Lutheran Church

For more information/pastoral services, phone Pastor Mark Kleiner @ 306-948-3731, 306-951-7122.

ST. GABRIEL ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH 109 - 7th Ave. W, Biggar Father Michel Bedard Parish Phone: 306-948-3330

MASS TIME 3UNDAY s A M Sunday School during service Dec. 24‌Christmas Eve Services: Landis 6:30; and Biggar 8:30.

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC CHURCH

Landis, Sask.

MASS TIME: 3UNDAY s A M Y

SUNDAY, DEC.

20:

Our Lady of Fatima and Friends Parish Choir invites you to our

‘ ‘Reason for the Season’

CONCERT, 2 p.m. @ Our Lady of Fatima Church in Landis, Sask.

Desserts to follow.

Donation at the door.

Proceeds toward choir project.

Everyone Welcome!

Coming Events

Garage G g Sales

SATURDAY, JANUARY 9: Biggar & District Arts Council presents . . .�The Marc Holt Quintet�� , 7:30 p.m. at The Majestic Theatre, Biggar.

Adults/Seniors $25 (advance $20); Students, 13 and older, $15 (advance $12); children 12 and under $5. Advance tickets available at de Moissac Jewellers, Biggar, 306-948-2452.

48c6

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 19 and SATURDAY, JANUARY 16: Moving/ Garage Sale‌ Carruthers Acreage, 1/2 mile west on Hwy #51, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

51, 1, 2 p3

For ALL A Ly your stamp

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

306-948-3344

Wanted Looking to buy Indian arrowheads and any associated stone tools. Phone 306717-3232.

41tfn Old battery collection, Fisher #300 Cadet Squadron.

Drop off at the Biggar Landfill OR contact Quentin Sittler at 306-658-2132 tfn

Wanted MAIN STREET GARAGE SALE is accepting donations of all items in clean and working condition. Please phone 306-948-1773 or 306-948-5393. Pickup available. tfn

Land for Rent LAND FOR RENT, pasture in R.M. of Eagle Creek. Call for details, 306-9489186.

22tfn

Stop in to‌

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

18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Real Estate

For Rent

LANE REALTY

Charter/ Sherwood Apartments

For the most exposure that you deserve in the marketing of your farm or ranch property. Contact your local agent:

MURRAY Y MURDOCH (306) 858-8000 To view full colour feature sheets for all of our CURRENT LISTINGS, visit our Website at www.lanerealty.com y

LANE REALTY

Saskatchewan’s Farm & Ranch Specialists™

114 REGISTERED SALES SO FAR IN 2015!

Ph:(306) 569-3380 Email: lanerealtycorp@sasktel.net y p WITH OVER 30 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS! Now representing purchasers from across Canada and Overseas!”

www.lanerealty.com Land for Sale LAND FOR SALE inn RM of Biggar, SE ¼-17-3617-W3. Highest or any offer will not necessarily be accepted. Please mail or deliver bids to BUSSE LAW OFFICE, Box 669, 302 Main St., Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 (Ph: 306-948-3346, Fax: 306-948-3366) 6 CLOSING DATE: December 18, 2015

Houses for Sale/Rent home with all new appliances, partly furnished with finished basement, air conditioner, garage with door opener, lovely yard, close to hospital and nursing home.

Possession January 1, 2016. Call 306-9482098 51p3

Houses for Rent Two and three bedroom houses for rent.

Close to downtown and school. Fridge and stove included.

For viewing call 306948-3674 or 306948-9517 or 306-9487022.

50tfn

Services

1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom Heat and water supplied, wired for cable TV and satellite systems, laundr y facilities, appliances, some suites with dishwasher s, air conditioning, parking with plugins.

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

If YOU are…

• NEW to our communities of Biggar/Landis/Perdue • Have a new baby

at 306-948-3837

Contact US

Sheila Itterman

for professional printing of office supplies, forms and services.

We have gifts and information www. welcomewagon.ca g

Advertisements A and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the perr sons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Asso2ciation and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such adverr tisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www. swna.com.

Employment Opportunity NEW-WAY IRRIGATION

Call WELCOME

WAGON

ProvinceWide

The Biggar Independent 122 Main St., Biggar 306-948-3344

is seeking a qualified applicant for the PARTS POSITION in our Outlook, SK office.

The qualified applicant should have shipping and receiving experience.

Excellent organizational skills, and a farm background are assets. Computer proficiency is needed.

A competitive salary and benefits package is available to the successful candidate.

Please submit resumes by email: hr@newwayirrigation.com

Early Deadline

for New Year’s Paper

NOON Friday, December 18th

Employment Opportunity Heavy Duty Mechanic wanted immediately.

Must have truck & trailer experience. Excellent pay & benefit package. Andres Truck & Trailer.

Windthorst, SK Call/Text Jayson at 306.736.3250 M E D I C A L TRANSCRIPTION! In-demand career! Employers have work-athome positions available.

Get online training you need from an employertrusted program.

Visit: CareerStep.ca/MT or 1-855-768-3362 to start training for your workat-home career today!

Careers HEALTHCARE DOCUMENTA TION SPECIALISTS in huge demand. Employers prefer CanScribe graduates. A great work-from-home career!

Contact us now to start your training day. www. canscribe.com.

1.800.466.1535. info@canscribe. com.

Vehicles Wrecking over 250 units... cars and trucks.

Lots of trucks...

Dodge... GMC...

Ford... Imports...

1/2 ton to 3 tons...

We ship anywhere... Call or text 306-821-0260.

Lloydminster

Agriculture Got Oat Stubble?

Think Quinoa in 2016!

Grow With Us Total production contracts available for 2016.

Premium returns, guaranteed markets and delivery.

For Sale

www.quinoa.com 306.933.9525

BOSCH 800 watt Mixer Sale $515, VITAMIX Blenders $459 & up, BUNN Coffee Makers, Omega Juicers & more.

Call 1-888-6926724 or shop online www. hometechcanada.ca Hometech New address 375 Broad St, Regina.

Seed & Feed

P ROV I N C E WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly.

Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1400 for details.

HEATED CANOLA WANTED!!

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

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

HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252 Buying/Selling FEED GRAINS heated / damaged CANOLA/FLAX Top price paid FOB FARM

Western Commodities 877-695-6461 Visit our website @

Restless Leg www.westerncommodities.ca Syndrome & Leg Cramps?

Services Fast Relief In One Hour. Sleep Hip or Knee At Night. ProvReplacement? en For Over 32 Years. www.all- Problems Walking calm.com Monor Fri 8-4 EST 1-800- Getting Dressed?

765-8660 The Disability Tax Credit

WATCH for

$2,000 Yearly Tax Credit $20,000 Lump Sum Refund

Main St., Biggar

Claim it before tax time!

1-844-453-5372

Doreen’s Discount Days Dec. 17,, 18 & 21 @Leslie’s Drugstore,

BOX 40, BIGGAR, SK S0K 0M0 B M0

Ph Phone: 306-948-3344; 44; Fa Fax Fax: ax: 306-94 306306-948-2133 -94 94888--21 2133 33 Email: tip@sasktel.net Em ipp@sasktel.net ww www.biggarindependent.ca www.bigg igg gga garindep ep ca CLASSIFIED AD RATES TES ES Deadline - Monday at 5 p.m.

25 words or less ...... $13.00 per week over 25 words ...... 25¢/word If The Independent P.O. Box Number is used add $3.00 PLEASE READ YOUR AD -- Advertisers should read their advertisement the FIRST ISSUE it APPEARS and report any errors in time for the next insertion.

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

Obituaries, limit of 300 words, …without photo ..........................$65.00 …with black & white photo .....$70.00 …additional words, 25¢ per word “Happy” ads…Anniversary, Engagements, Birthday Greetings, etc. ................................................................$45.00 …with black & white photo ......$50.00 BOLD type...................................$ 2.00 Italicc type .......................................$ 2.00 Birth Announcements........$45.00 …with black & white photo ......$50.00 Administration Charges..............$ 5.00

NO REFUND on classifieds. Times to run must be All advertising subject to publisher’s approval. It is agreed by stated at First Insertion. Enclose cheque, money order, Visa, MasterCard for your classified.

The Independent and any advertiser using or requesting space

ADVERTISING ACCEPTANCE ADV AD

that the publisher shall not be held liable for damages in event of non-insertion of or errors in advertisements. In excess of or beyond the amount paid for space actually occupied by the non-insertion, or by that portion of the advertisement in which the error or non-insertion occurred whether such error or noninsertion is due to the negligence of its servants or otherwise.

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

Other Advertising Rates Available upon Request.

rr "-- $-"44*'*&%4 "-"-- $$-" -"44*'*&%4 "444* %44 .6 .645 #& 13&1"*% r % rr

$31.00 + $1.55 gst = $32.55

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.

ATES ES…per year Pick-Up/ONLINE… Inside 40-mile Radius…

$36.00 + $1.80 gst = $37.80 Outside 40-mile Radius…

$41.00 + $2.05 gst = $43.05

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Land for Sale FARMLAND WANTED NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES Central - 217 1/4’s South - 97 1/4’s South East - 43 1/4’s South West - 65 1/4’s North - 10 1/4’s North East - 14 1/4’s North West - 12 1/4’s East - 56 1/4’s West - 49 1/4’s FARM AND PASTURE AVAILABLE

LAND

TO RENT

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

THE BIGGAR

INDEPENDENT on

NEWSSTANDS @

• Biggar Esso • Leslie’s Drugstore • Pharmasave • Quick Stop • Super A Foods • Shop Easy Foods • Weasie’s Gourmet Blends • Central Plains Co-op, Perdue • The Store, Perdue

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19

… Weekes, cont. from pg 3 government provided $18.3 million in capital funding - 80 per cent of the total cost. The government has so far committed $209 million to replace 13 long-term care facilities.

“It’s an amazing facility - absolutely beautiful.

It’s not only a wonderful place for the residents to live but a great place to work,” Weekes says, describing the track lifts, wider doors, open and airy living and working areas.

“The hospital has really improved

as far as infrastructure; it’s very nice and a nice addition to do at the same time as the longterm care home.”

Weekes added that it’s great time for Registered Nurses to work in Biggar and the province. The Sask Party commitment hired 800 more RNs. Weekes said there are now 3,000 nurses of various types, and 500 more doctors working in the province since 2007.

“We’ve really committed a lot of resources to

It’s time to renew your subscription!

health care professionals and providers,” he said.

“Another great innovation is STARS - a flying emergency centre, and really it’s rural health care.”

Weekes says it’s been very rewarding serving the people of the constituency.

An example, increasing elk and moose numbers in the area had Weekes working with the Environment Ministry to obtain more hunting licences, helping to reduce numbers and ease the strain on ranchers and farmers.

Weekes, who takes a seat in Cabinet meetings, was elected by colleagues as Caucus Chair this fall.

“It was quite

an honour to be elected by my peers.”

With April 4, 2016 an election day, Weekes says they are well positioned with a very popular and capable premier in Brad Wall, and a government focused on the economy.

“It’s going to be very difficult,” Weekes cautioned. “I think that it’s important we keep our eye on the ball as a government in keeping the budget balanced and having fiscal stability in the province. When you let budgets get out of control and start running up debt, that’s when this province fails, and that’s debt that future generations have to pay off.”

Diversification into mining, agriculture and manufacturing has offset oil and gas losses, providing the province some financial stability. Carbon capture is leading the world to Saskatchewan’s door. New investment in wind and solar will go with past backing in natural gas to secure our power needs.

Weekes will be the candidate for the new BiggarSask Valley constituency. Encompassing the Town of Biggar, following Highway 14 to include the Town of Asquith but not the Village of Perdue or Kinley, moving around Saskatoon, Martensville and Warman, following the river,

jutting across to cover Hague, Waldheim, Denholm, before ending south of the Battlefords with the western boundary moving down to just miss Landis - now in the Kindersley constituency (see map below).

“It’s going to be a choice between Premier Brad Wall and the Saskatchewan Party and our record, and the NDP,” Weekes stated.

“We’re very comfortable with our message.

Our government has done great things when the economy was good, but we are also doing great things when the economy is not doing well. We’re going to keep the province strong as we move forward.”

All subscriptions expire December 31, 2015 Pick-up ...............................................$31.00 plus $1.55 gst = $32.55 Within 40-mile radius/Online ..........$36.00 plus $1.80 gst = $37.80 Outside 40-mile radius ......................$41.00 plus $2.05 gst = $43.05 RENEW or SUBSCRIBE by phone, mail or credit card.

The Independent will be

306-948-3344 E-mail: tip@sasktel.net

Box 40, 122 Main Street, Biggar •

www.biggarindependent.ca

CLOSED at noon on Dec. 24 &

OPEN

Monday, Jan. 4

Biggar Independent

306-948-3344

tip@sasktel.net

THURSDAY, Y DECEMBER 17, 2015

20 - T THE HE IN IND DEPEN END DEN ENT T, BIGGAR BIGGAR, SK

SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

AGRICULTURE

SEED CLEANING McNULTY’S MOBILE SEED CLEANING

DUANE NEUFELDT 403 Main St., Biggar

Licensed For: # # #

WYLIE SEE S D&

306-986-2600

"

!!!

Proud sponsor of Children’s Wish Foundation

AUTOMOTIVE

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

306.948.3996 Open Monday-Friday

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

306-948-5052 Cari Perih Residential Salesperson

SoldByCari.ca

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

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, Âź mile west on Triumph p Rd.

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

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

Landis OfÂż fÂżce Hours:

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

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

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

Thurs., CLOSED

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�

COURIER/HAULING

COURIER/HAULING

A Auto Repair TIRES 1st Ave. A West, Biggar

Photos os by Portraits, P i F Family, il ily, ly, Weddings & Sports ort rts ts

306.948.2700 Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer

SERVICES Your authorized

Open: Mon.-Fri.

Panasonic, Samsung,

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

3AT s A M .OON

LG, Frigidaire, Shaw, Yamaha Audio Dealer; and Your authorized

SaskTel Mobility and

• 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, gg Sask.

306.237.7671 TROY Y MAY, owner/opertor Fax:306-237-.TROY email: tmay@hotmail.ca Super B outÀ Àts hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan

306-

948-3955

Corner of Main Street & 1st Avenue West, Biggar

KRF Auto Centre 100% handwash h7HERE WE DO IT ALL FOR YOU v s $ETAILING $ T ILI s Vortex x Spray-In Box Liners s Granitex x Baked-on Coatings for Decks and Cement Flooring s !UTO !CCESSORIES s 4RAILER 2ENTALS

YH Truck, Ag & Auto

Cell: 306-948-7524

216 Main St., Biggar

after hours George: 948-4042

306-948-1722

~Brian and Cathyy Fick~

BIGGAR LEISURE CENTRE

~ One time projects or long term service

ĂżWord Processing ĂżAccounts Payable ĂżDatabase Management ĂżBookkeeping ĂżData Entry ĂżProject Planning ĂżSpreadsheets ĂżMarketing ĂżResume Writing ĂżPresentations Cost effectiveness, quality performance and reliability with peace of mind.

For a FREE consultation, call Cheryl Irvine @

306-948-7402

www.redappleadmin.ca pp

www.facebook.com/redappleadmin

s (EAVY TRUCK PARTS s !GRICULTURE PARTS s !UTOMOTIVE PARTS ACCESSORIES WWW YHTRUCKAGAUTO COM

(WY %AST "IGGAR 306-948-2109

Rebel Landscaping 306-948-2879, evenings 306-948-7207, daytime Ed Kolenosky s $RIVEWAYS s #ONCRETE s 'ARAGE 0ADS s 0RUNING s 0LANTING

s 4OPSOIL s ,AWN #ARE s ,EVELING s 3OD s 0ATIO "LOCKS

s 3NOW 2EMOVAL s &ENCES xAND MUCH MORE

Goldburg Gravel Ltd. • Pit Run • Base Gravel • Road Gravel

• Crushed Rock • Top Soil

Phone‌ Leam Craig

Jerry Muc Phone: 306-948-2958 306-948-5699

Biggar Sand & Gravel

306-948-2801 or 306-948-7279 HONEYBEE SEPTIC TANK SERVICE Bob Kobelsky

306-658-4474,, Landis

THUR-O CARP R ET

CLEANING #LIFF &ORSYTH Box 736, Biggar

Phone‌

306-948-5600

• trenching • trucking • water & sewer • sand & gravel • excavating Office ‌

306-948-5455 Anne G. Livingston

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

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

BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY

BIGGARR & DISTRICT FAMILY CENTRE nd

Call: 306-948-2101

306-948-3312 sales@gvsigns.ca

Qualilty!

FOR RENT

Housing for families and seniors Rent based on income

t Delivery

Ask Abou

Certified Scale and Ticketed Loads Serving the Rosetown & Biggar Areas

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

Fax:

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

A Sign of

306-948-3376

227 - 1stt Ave. East, Biggar

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

Rockin D Trucking & Cattle

Service Truck Full Mechanical Service -ON &RI s A M P M phone: George

/WNED OPERATED BY +EVIN &ICK

BIGGAR COURIER

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

“Your complete deccal and signage shop�

High Speed Internet Dealer

Biggar Of¿ f¿ce Hours‌

Teams, Corporate and Personal Attire

SGI Safety Inspection S

INSURANCE

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

Custom Embroidery

RED APPLE ADMINISTRATIVE A SERVICES “Administrative Services to Meet Your Business Needs�

Heavy Truck Repair H

Cell 306-948-7995

of The Battlefords Independently Owned and Operaated

207 Main St. Biggar

Phone: 306-948-5678

PROC R ESSING S INC. IN

306-948-8055

Burnt Orange Sales Repair Virus Removal

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

Saskatoon - Biggar OďŹƒce ďŹƒ

Computer Sales and Repair

130 - 2 Ave. W., Biggar

OPEN: Tues., Thurs., & Fri., 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

306-951-7860

Contact THE INDEPENDENT 306-9483344 to have your business listed here, ‌ask about special rates and sizes!

Your family remembered forever! in the Heritage Albums for only $25 at the Biggar Museum, 306-948-3451

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

THURS URSD DAY, Y DECEMB MBER ER 17, 17 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, T BIGGAR G , SK - 21

ACCOUNTING

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

PLUMBING & HEATING

Helping you Help yourself

306-948-2295

ELECTRICAL

Roofing

BIGGAR ELECTRICAL & REFRIGERATION SERVICES

MA M ADGE R ROOFING G INC.

Commercial and Industrial Electrical Wiring Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan

306-948-5291 PHILLIPS ELECTRIC s 2ESIDENCE s #OMMERCIAL 7IRING &OR FREE ESTIMATES Ph: 306-948-5393

#ELL 306-221-6888

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

PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL

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

Biggar, Sask.

306-948-3389 Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff

HEALTH/WELLNESS

Biggar

Weight Loss & Wellness Centre

306-717-2818 www.madgesaskroofing.com g g Eavestroughing Biggar, Sask.

Goldburg Electric Ltd.

This space in this directory is available for only $161.20 plus gst…

• Residential • Commercial Contact Matt Craig

one column x 2 inches for 26-week prepaid commitment

306-951-8004

Call 306-948-3344

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

306-948-7274

Call Making Biggar Smaller!

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

by Brett Barber

102 - 3rd Ave. A W., Biggar

306.948.2208 Use all modes of advertising…

CLASSIFIEDS WORK …call

306-948-3344

NORTH BATTLEFORD, Sask.

Shop 306.446.3298

Fax 306.445.4275

…located in the Professional Building 223 Main St., Biggar

Phone or Text:

306-321-4991 More Appointments

LEGAL SERVICES

Now available

BUSSE LAW PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Barristers & Solicitors

Hours: Monday - Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Website: www.perdue p massageclinic.com g

Moonlight Therapy JJanet & Candice Moon Colour Energy Therapists …for info & appts

306-948-7682 or 306-948-7128

moonlighttherapy@hotmail.com g py@

DENTAL

ROSETOWN OS O DENTAL

OFFICE HOURS - together with -

5th Avenue 106th Street

Registered Massage Therapists (MTAS

115 - 1st Avenue West Rosetown, Sask.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Contact us for all your insurance and financial services 306-948-3926

Perdue Massage & Acupuncture

Phone: Fax: 306-948-5050

HEALTH/ WELLNESS

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

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

Phone:306.882.2123 New Patients Welcome!

BIGGAR DENTAL CLINIC 104 - 6 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. th

S Stuart A A. B Busse, QC Larry A. Kirk, LL.B. 302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

306-948-3346

CAMPBELL ACCOUNTING SERVICES

• Bookkeeping • Tax Returns • Financial Statements

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

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

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

Ph: 306-948-5133

…serving your community since 1972

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

Criminal Law Commercial Law Family Law Real Estate Law Wills and Estate Law and our lawyers, Jason Peszko Lisa Watson Sophie Ferré

223 Main Street Biggar Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO

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

look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:

306-948-5352 or 306-244-9865

OPTOMETRISTS

INVESTMENTS Kirk Ewen Doctor of Optometry

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

info@twhfinancial.ca www.twhfinancial.ca

In n Biggar Every Tuesday.

Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main Street, Biggar

For appointments…

1-855-651-3311

INVESTMENTS For all your investment needs, Visit…

306-948-3408

BE SEEN in the BUSINESS DIRECTORY CALL 306-948-3344

Dean McCallum, CFP, CIM, FCSI

Lyndsey Poole

Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.

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

Pamela Eaton Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc.

Located at the Biggar & District Credit Union 302 Main Street, Biggar, SK • 306-948-3352 Mutual funds are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc., and mutual funds and other securities are offered through Credential Securities Inc. ®Credential r is a registered mark owned

by Credential Financial Inc. and is used under license.

ADVERTISING is an investment in your business.

22 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

15123MC2

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

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

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

1.877.979.7999 www.rosetownmainline.net

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 23

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015 (Right) Santa’s Angels . . . The Biggar Legion held their annual Santa Day, Saturday, giving kids (and kids at heart) an opportunity to get in that last minute addition to their holiday wish list. Not only could they talk to Santa, but Legion members gave kids a goodie bag, then treated them to a movie at the Majestic Theatre. (Independent Photo by Daryl Hasein)

(Below) Christmas comes a bit early for Lodge residents . . . The Biggar Embroidery Guild pose with the results of hard work and talent - holiday gifts for Biggar Health Centre residents. The Embroidery Guild was formed in September, 1991. Many classes were taught over the years, including, Brazilian, hardanger, cross stitch, ribbon flowers, bargello, tatting, crocheting, knitting, canvas work and quilting. In 2008, the Guild prepared catheter bag covers and lap covers for Diamond Lodge residents. In September, 2015, it was decided to crochet or knit lab covers and prayer shawls to donate to the residents. The talented ladies donated 10 prayer shawls and eight lap covers/blankets for residents. It was brought to our attention that a prayer shawl indicated the love and prayer for the receiver. These ladies are truly Santa’s helpers; give them a pat on the back for their work! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

“CHASE THE ACE”

JACKPOT NOW is…

$258.00

on Dec. 18, resumes on Jan. 7

at The Legion Main St., Biggar

EVERY FRIDAY, 4 - 7 P.M.

PETROLEUM

208 4th Ave E, Biggar

For Sale in Biggar (MLS) 601 8th Ave W 112 8th Ave W 606 7th Ave W 410 4th Ave W 114 2nd Ave W 208 4th Ave E 314 6th Ave W 407 5th Ave W 602 Main St 413 5th Ave E 216 4th Ave W 103 4th Ave E 224 2nd Ave W Charming 2 storey, 1,451 sq. ft. home full of personality.

The interior is a mix of old and modern elements, which starts with the cozy veranda. As you enter the front foyer, a beautiful grand staircase welcomes you. To your left is the living room which features elegant wood trim around each window. Flowing from the living room through a doorway is the dining room. The kitchen overlooks the back yard and has a modern stove, plus a classic, well-maintained working gas stove. Upstairs includes 3 bedrooms and a 4 piece bathroom with jetted soaker tub and beautiful tile work. The basement could be further developed and currently is set up with a rec room, laundry area, utility/ storage room and cold room. There is an asphalt driveway, front and back lawns, beautiful mature trees, garden area, and patio with fire pit. Note: some furnishings and items included. Contact Cari Perih for further details.

Asking $175,000 MLS 553330

Find me on Facebook www.facebook.com/SoldByCari

www.SoldbyCari.ca

$479,000 $305,000 $289,900 $249,000 $179,800 $175,000 $174,500 $158,000 $110,000 $105,000 $85,000 $65,000 $48,000

Out of Town Properties (MLS) 908 8th St Perdue $244,000 302 1st St Milden $105,000 $72,900 507 1st St Wilkie 102 2nd Ave W Landis $59,000 110 3rd St Milden $35,000 705 Ave M Perdue $20,000

Recently Sold 205 4thAve E

Cari Perih Residential Salesperson (306) 948-7995 Cari.Perih@HammondRealty.ca

$299,000

YEAR END OIL SALE Buy oil until December 31, 2015 at the lowest pprice of the year! y CENTRAL PLAINS CO-OPERATIVE LTD. Eston Service Station 306-962-3647

Bulk Petroleum 306-882-2608

Perdue C-Store 306-237-4639

Landis Agro Centre 306-658-2234

24 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

LIMITED TIME OFFER D E C E M B ER 17, 2 015 - J A N UA R Y 6 , 2 016

TA K E A DVA N TA G E O F

GREAT SAVINGS ON SELECT WHIRLPOOL ® HOME APPLIANCES See sales associate for details. ®/™ © 2015 Whirlpool. Used under license in Canada. All rights reserved.

192-24th Street West, Battleford

Phone 306-937-7474

www.battlefordfurniture.com

Fax 306-937-7676

mail@battlefordfurniture.com

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE

Merry.

Bright.

Here’s hoping your Christmas is all that and more.

Magical.

Joyous.

Healthy.

Happy.

Lucky.

Blessed.

From Everyone at The Independent Daryl. Peggy, Urla, Kevin & Tom

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Merry Christmas!

Holiday living made easy With so much on our plates between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, the holiday season can be hectic. Fortunately, there are many ways to save time and make the holiday season more manageable.

• If you don’t have plastic clips to hang lights around windows and to the eaves of your home, inexpensive clothespins will work just as well. If you’re concerned about the color of the wooden clips, paint them holiday hues before stringing the lights.

• Put a bath mat, rug-

side down and rubberside up, beneath your Christmas tree stand.

This allows you to spin the tree as you hang lights and ornaments without damaging the floor underneath. It also makes it simple to undress the tree once the season is over. Use a tree skirt to hide the mat.

• Squeeze artificial tree portions into concrete form tubes. First wrap the tree portions in twine and then slip them into the concrete sleeves. Each tube can be stowed in attic or garage rafters, freeing up precious space.

• Use empty squirt bottles to make baking and cooking easier. Pancake and cookie batters can be squirted from the containers for less mess.

• Store one or two strings of lights in a plastic shopping bag to keep the strands from getting tangled. Hang the bags from a hook in a garage or stack them in a storage bin.

• Use plastic zip ties to attach garland and lights to bannisters. They’re easy to assemble and will not damage the bannisters.

• A paper towel holder

can be screwed to the wall in a craft room to neatly hold spools of ribbon. Simply pull the length you need from the spool and cut for easy decorating.

• Mount a tree stand to a piece of wood with screws or glue. This prevents spills from reaching the floor while stabilizing the tree.

• Old maps make interesting gift wrap and are a nice change of pace from commercially produced paper or newsprint.

• Wrap duct tape or another type of sticky tape around your hand.

Pat over fallen pine needles that accumulate around the tree. In hardto-reach areas, wrap the tape around a broom or a floor sweeper.

• When traveling for the holidays, use a brightly colored suitcase or flashy tape to make your suitcase stand out from others at the airport.

• Place hardened brown sugar in a baking dish, cover it with a moist paper towel and either microwave it on high for 20-second intervals or place it in a 300 F oven for five minutes. This will soften the sugar, making

Wishing You all the Peace, Joy and Love of the Season!

Season’s Greeting 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 reflect on the passing year, look ahead to the future and make goals for ourselves and our community.

Reflecting on the past year, it has once again proved to be exceptional with over 1.4 million dollars in new residential and commercial development that began work in 2015. The Town saw the opening of the new Diamond Lodge long term care facility along with the newly renovated Westwinds Motor Hotel. Biggar is experiencing 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.

In 2015 over $1.02 million dollars was paid to replace aging infrastructure, some of which are projects such as pavement, sidewalks, replacing old water lines, new rink boards and renovated bathrooms at Jubilee Stadium, upgrades to the swimming pool facility and the purchase of a new grader. The Town will continue to replace old infrastructure on an ongoing basis. In 2016 projected projects include: Replacing the water and sewer lines in the first three blocks of 4th Ave. W. a cost of $1.454 million; Replacing the sewer main on Quebec from 1st-4th Ave. West at a cost of $210,000; constructing new sewer lines and a lift station at a cost of $650,000; and continuing with paving and sidewalk replacement The Town of Biggar would like to welcome to our team Rhonda James as our Accountant and Chris Wileman into our Public Works and Recreation departments.

In 2016, we look forward to the reopening of The Biggar Hotel with new ownership and the opening of the new National Inn & Conference Centre in the old Diamond Lodge facility. The Town welcomed the opening of Your Dollar Mart and wants to acknowledge the expansion of Biggar Leisure. We wish all businesses in Town continued success in the New Year!

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 is full of contentment, happiness and love, and we wish one and all a very happy and prosperous New Year!

TOWN OF BIGGAR

COUNCIL, ADMINISTRATION and STAFF

it easier to use the sugar to prepare your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

• Save plastic bread ties, which can be used to make tags for the wires on certain devices. Such ties also can be used to organize decorating components and to keep your place on a roll of tape.

• Measure the inside of your picture window and construct a wooden frame to its dimensions.

Staple holiday lights to the frame and then easily slip the frame in and out of place each year.

• Hang a live wreath or some boughs of evergreen in your home to give it that fresh pine scent if you have an artificial tree.

• Color-code storage containers so you can easily find holiday decorations in the attic or basement.

• Pack for a holiday excursion using a collapsible clothing storage hanger for closets. Fold clothes on each fabric shelf and then collapse it into your suitcase. When you get to your destination, unfold and hang it in a closet so all of your clothes will be at the ready.

Make the holidays even more enjoyable with a variety of timesavers and clever tips.

How to keep your shopping list in check this Christmas (NC) It’s the holiday season, which likely means that you’re spending a lot of money. As lists continue to grow and requests from friends and family get more intricate, follow these tips to help stay on budget for the holidays: • Give a group gift: For your child’s teacher buy one meaningful gift with a group of other parents. There are many thoughtful ideas from the World Vision Gift Catalogue (worldvision. ca/gifts).

• Use coupons: Do a quick online search.

Use your smartphone to find couponing apps to help your holiday budget stretch further.

• Do a secret Santa: Instead of buying for everyone, draw names with your colleagues and adult family members from a hat so everyone buys a gift for just one other person.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

Exploring the colors of Christmas Decorations adorning homes and businesses in the familiar colors of red and green are popular come the holiday season.

Even gift wrap, greeting cards and clothing tend to lean toward red and green as the holiday season hits full swing. It is difficult to think of Christmas without envisioning everything awash in these popular colors, broken up only by the inclusion of gold, white or silver accents.

The colors of Christmas are often taken for granted, and many celebrants are unaware of how these colors became symbols of the holiday season and why they remain so to this day.

Several theories exist

as to why red and green became the hallmarks of Christmas. One such theory is that the colors evolved from pagan celebrations similar to the evolution of Christmas traditions. Prior to the arrival of Christianity, many cultures viewed the color green as the symbol of life . It is believed that, during harsh winters, evergreen trees were cut down and brought indoors to symbolize that life still exists and thrives despite the cold and darkness of winter. Other pagan holidays featured the use of green, red and gold, including the festival of Yule.

As Christianity spread across Europe and even-

tually other parts of the world, red and green were linked to Jesus Christ.

Green still represented life, but now this was the eternal life offered

by Christ. Red was said to symbolize sacrifice, namely the blood of Jesus when he died on the cross.

Some Christians believe that Jesus wore a crown of holly thorns whose berries were originally white. As Jesus’ blood touched the berries, they turned red.

Some theorize that the red of the holiday season represents the apples on the tree of paradise in the Garden of Eden. Around the 14th century, the faithful would put on Paradise Plays on December 24 to share the story of creation

The colors red, green, gold, and silver are prominent during the holiday season, when they can be seen on everything from gift wrap to decorations.

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 filled 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

306-948-3376

Tire Auto Centre George, Ann, Ron, Don, Curtis, Chris, Dayce, Damon and Dalton

with those who could not read. It is nearly impossible to find a fruit-bearing apple tree in the winter, so a pine tree adorned with red apples was used instead. Bishops also wore red robes, further tying the color red to religious masses and celebrations.

Gold is frequently used in holiday decorations as well. Gold can represent the sun and light, both important ways to ward off the dark winter. In addition, gold was one of the gifts brought to baby Jesus, making it a color of significance within the Christian faith.

Red and green poinsettias also are a symbol of the holiday season, but they didn’t start the colorful tradition. Poinsettias are a relatively recent addition to Christmas symbolism, as they were only first introduced to America in 1828, when they were brought back from Mexico by Joel Poinsett.

The holiday season is filled with many different colors that brighten up homes and businesses.

Combined with the many twinkling lights used on displays, red and green decorations can add vitality to the dark days of December.

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

There’s No Place

Like Home for the Holidays Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and every happiness in the New Year.

36 years of serving Biggar and area 1979-2015

Carter Plumbing & Heating Water Heaters, Softeners, Pumps, Furnaces, Underground Sprinklers, Air-conditioning

306-948-2624

We hope your holiday hits all the high notes!

With a song in our hearts, we wish all of our neighbours here a most Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

We sincerely appreciate your patronage and friendship at the holidays and all year!

Campbell Accounting Services Rod and Jennifer Campbell 122 Main St., Biggar 306-948-4430 or 306-98-4460

Joyous Greetings To all our good friends, let us extend our sincere thanks and warm wishes for a very, merry holiday season.

Rosetown - Biggar - Elrose Outlook - Davidson - Central Butte

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

We’re filled with warm wishes and lots of good cheer For all the kind people we’ve served this past year.

Thanks, friends!

PERDUE AGENCIES LTD. 306-237-4373

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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

Warm wishes for a Merry Christmas

WITH WARM WISHES AND HEARTFELT THANKS TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND FRIENDS

THIS HOLIDAY SEASON. IT’S BEEN A PLEASURE SERVING YOU THIS YEAR!

Troy, Kerry and everyone at…

Merry Christmas!

Satisfy sweet cravings this holiday season with fewer calories (NC) Canadians are looking to cut down on their sugar intake, but it’s often difficult during the holidays. Now there is an easy way to enjoy holiday treats and also reduce your calories. By substituting new Truvia Baking Blend, a blend of sugar and a steviabased, Truvia calorie-free sweetener for sugar, you can obtain the same sweet results and consume 75 per cent fewer calories per serving than sugar. Here’s a festive holiday biscotti recipe that has 55 per cent less sugar than the full sugar version.

Reduced Sugar Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti • 1/4 cup light olive oil • 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp Truvía Baking Blend • 2 tsp vanilla extract • 1/2 tsp almond extract • 2 eggs • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour • 1/4 tsp salt • 1 tsp baking powder • 1/2 cup dried cranberries • 1 1/2 cups pistachio kernels 1. Preheat oven to 300° F. Mix the oil and Truvía Baking Blend in a large bowl. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, and then beat in the eggs.

2. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually stir the flour mixture into the egg mixture. Mix in cranberries and nuts by hand.

3. Divide dough in half. Form two logs (8 x 4 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parch-

Biggar Constituency 948-4880, toll free 1-877-948-4880 Box 1413, 106-3rd Avenue West, Biggar

ment paper.

4. Bake for 35 minutes, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven to 275° F. 5. Cut logs into 1⁄2 inch thick slices using a pizza cutter. Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 minutes, or until dry; cool.

Makes 2 dozen biscotti.

Seven ways to get your family through the airport faster (NC) If you want to get your family through airport security quickly and easily, follow these tips from the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA).

• Remember the 100ml restrictions.

Put large containers of liquids, aerosols and gels in your checked baggage.

Only amounts less than 100ml, placed in a onelitre clear, re-sealable plastic bag, are permitted in your carry-on.

This includes beverages and non-solid food (e.g. yogurt, pudding, peanut butter). However,

beverages and food for children under the age of two are exempt (e.g. breast milk, formula, juice, purees). These items should be packed so that they can easily be removed from your carry-on baggage for inspection.

• Leave gifts unwrapped. If you’re bringing gifts, leave them unwrapped as their contents may need to be inspected. Some airports offer post-security gift wrapping services.

• Keep electronics in your carry-on. Bringing your children’s elec-

306-237-7671

Randy Weekes, M.L.A.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

tronic games is a good way to keep them busy at the airport. For screening, electronic items can remain in your carry-on bag.

• Avoid toy weapons. You can pack toys in your child’s carry-on baggage, but leave toys that look like weapons (e.g. guns, toy grenades, swords) at home.

• Choose easy-toremove outerwear.

Make sure the little ones can easily remove winter jackets, boots and hats.

These items must be placed in bins provided at the checkpoint for screening.

• Look for the Family/Special Needs lane. If you need help

at the checkpoint, look for the Family/Special Needs lane. This lane has screening equipment that can accommodate larger items like strollers and car seats. The screening officers will offer additional assistance.

• Have your boarding pass ready.

Remember to have all family members’ boarding passes ready for inspection.

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

…from the Board and Volunteers of…

Main St., Biggar

306-237-4337 For ALL shows, events and times, check our website at www.majestictheatre.ca

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Eight new family traditions to start today (NC) Traditions are important to every family. They can strengthen bonds and create meaningful and lasting memories. While many traditions are set in stone, try adopting some new rituals this season to get into the holiday spirit and bring your family together.

1. Rent a ping-pong table and host an elimination tournament with your family. The last person standing gets a free pass for not doing the dishes.

2. On Christmas Eve, implement a mandatory onesie dress code. To document your onesie party conduct a playful photoshoot with your family and friends.

3. Create a playlist of old tunes from your grandparents and parents’ generation, your teenage years and classic cheesy holiday songs.

Turn up the music and have a dance party.

4. Combat the cold by incorporating tropical items into your holiday menu. Create Carib-

bean inspired drinks like coconut eggnog slushies or mandarin orange spritzers and beach inspired snacks like guacamole or crab dip.

5. Dust off and bust out your old school VHS player and watch old home videos from your childhood.

6. Have a slumber party with your siblings by camping out in the living room in front of the tree.

7. Host an ugly sweater craft session and contest with your family.

The person with the most ‘likes’ on social media gets to open the first present. Grab a DIY holiday sweater kit from your local Mark’s store or order one right to your house at marks. com.

8. Make breakfast. Four words: “The Wife Saver Recipe.” This breakfast dish that you can easily throw together the night before will save you when your family wakes up with hungry tummies after a night of festivities.

Sending greeting cards Greeting cards are a popular method of correspondence throughout the year. Cards are purchased for birthdays, graduations and milestone events. One of the more popular times of the year to find cards purchased and sent in bulk is during the holiday season.

The Greeting Card Association claims 1.6 billion Christmas card units (including boxed cards) are purchased for Christmas. Many people consider sending cards essential to their holiday traditions.

Here are some statistics on greeting cards and ways to improve upon your Christmas

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5

Happy Holidays!

card sending process.

• Women purchase an estimated 80 percent of all greeting cards and will spend more time choosing a card than men.

• The vast majority of individually purchased cards are between $2 and $4 in price. Christmas card economy is found by purchasing boxed cards in bulk.

• The visual design of a greeting card is the first to capture a person’s attention, but the saying within will have a greater impact. Consider purchasing cards that are blank inside so you can add your own personalized sentiments.

• For the perfect bal-

ance of imagery and verse, try a photo greeting card. This way you can customize both the image and the wording.

They’re even effective for business correspondence. Simply use a picture of your office team or other workers in place of a family photo.

• Personalized cards need to be purchased early to allow for production. Try to get your orders in by early November to leave you time to address and mail them.

• Buy extra cards than you think you need. This way you can send reciprocal greetings to a person who has mailed you a card this year.

• If you want your card to stand out from the masses, consider sending it separately from the big holidays. Thanksgiving or New Year’s cards can be unique.

• Try your hand at creating your own greeting cards from papercrafting

materials. You also can embellish ready-made greeting cards with stamps, glitter, stickers, and other customized effects.

• Keep a database of addresses saved on your computer. Then you can print address labels and save much time handaddressing Christmas cards. Your address list can later be customized for other friend or family events.

• Check the postage of your card. Oddly shaped envelopes or even square cards may require extra postage because they could be processed by hand at postal facilities.

• The Greeting Card Association says that even though many people use digital means of communication, greeting card traditions are still popular and even are being adopted by today’s youth.

Your Friendship… Makes It all Worthwhile! ... Is the chance to let you know how grateful we are for your friendshipand support as we wish you all a

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy New Year.

It’s been a gift for us serving folks like you. Thanks!

WEASIE’S Gourmet Blends Louise and staff 211 Main St., BigGAR s 306-948-1795

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, and staff

306-948-5355

Here Comes Christmas!

We’re all revved up for the holidays, and we can’t think of a finer place to celebrate than right here at home with good folks like you.

Thanks to our customers, neighbours, associates and friends for making as 2015 an excellent year for us. m t s i We really appreciate Chr your friendship and support.

All!

y Merr o t

Pizzeria Adria

Serving the community for over 15 years 212 Main St., Biggar 306-948-4800

Pizza Ray (aka Mayor Ray) and staff

IT’S SHAPING UP TO BE A GREAT HOLIDAY 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 ~

CO-ED FITNESS FACILITY

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!!!

Personal Training, Kickboxing, Sweat with Brett Fitness Classes, Nutrition Consulting OPEN… - 7 days a week -- 5 a.m. - 11 p.m.

102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar • www.newuÀtness.ca

Westwinds Motor Hotel

306-948-2208 or 306-948-9750 (cell)

306-948-3301

“Experience the Westwinds Difference” Dayna,Trent and staff

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

We’re very grateful for your patronage.

Please come and see us soon.

Biggar Liquor Board Store Lana and Cindy

306-948-3575

6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AT THE HOLIDAYS

Bake the best gingerbread ever

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.

(NC) Baking seasonal treats is a primary part of the holiday tradition – and not only is homemade gingerbread a crowd pleaser at any function, the spicy aroma is bound to inspire budding bakers as well.

“Holiday baking is fun for the whole family, mainly because everyone knows how tasty all the effort will be,” says Michael Schach, senior manager, food product development at Walmart Canada. He points out that their Great Value line is popular for keeping costs down, and all of the other ingredients for the recipe can be found in their bakery aisle, or online: Great Canadian Gingerbread Ingredients: • 1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature • 3/4 cup of packed dark brown sugar • 1/2 cup of fancy molasses • 2 large eggs at room temperature • 3 1/4 cup all-purpose flour • 1 tbsp ground ginger • 1/2 tsp ground allspice • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 tsp baking powder • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 1/2 tsp table salt • Icing sugar (optional)

1-800-529-9958 www.kramerauction.com

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, Biggar • 306-948-5262

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!

Bear Hills RDC Board and staff

306-948-2295

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 306-948-2544

Directions: 1. Beat butter, brown sugar and molasses together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one by one, beating well after each addition.

2. In a separate bowl, sift flour, ginger, allspice, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add this gradually to the butter mixture and stir until blended. Shape dough into 2 balls, wrap and chill for about an hour, up to 2 days.

3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line 2-3 baking trays with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first ball of dough until just over 1/8-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter of your choice to cut out cookie shapes. Lift them carefully to the prepared trays, leaving about ?-inch between them. Add any scraps to the second piece of dough and repeat.

4. Bake cookies for 15-18 minutes until browned a little just around the edges. Let cookies cool for a few minutes on the tray before removing to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar for an easy way to add a festive touch.

5. Cookies will keep for up to 10 days in an airtight container.

How to handle holiday homesickness The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, but not everyone can make it home to see their loved ones on the holidays.

Commitments to work or school prevent some people from heading home for the holidays, and such situations often inspire feelings of homesickness.

Holiday homesickness may not fully hit some people until the day of the holiday, when people separated from their families miss both the

company of their relatives and the holiday traditions they have enjoyed since childhood. But there are several ways to conquer holiday homesickness so you can still enjoy this festive time of year.

• Make technology work for you. Though you might not be able to sit at the holiday dinner table with your family this holiday season, that does not mean you still can’t lay your eyes on your those closest to you.

Arrange to video chat with family members sometime during the holiday. If you’re shipping gifts home, ask your family members to open their gifts during your video chatting session so you can see the reactions on their faces when they open their presents.

This can allow you to enjoy the thrill of seeing a loved one open the per-

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.

fect present, even if you happen to be thousands of miles away as he or she tears off the wrapping paper.

• Volunteer in your community. Another way to combat holiday homesickness is to volunteer in your community. Knowing you’re doing your part to make someone else’s holiday special can make it easier for you to be away from family on the holiday.

Whether you feed the homeless at a local shelter, distribute toys at a nearby children’s hospital or visit an assisted living facility and spend time with an equally homesick elderly person, putting a smile on someone else’s face is sure to put a smile on your own face as well.

• Stay true to traditions. If your family adheres to certain traditions every holiday, then do your best to maintain those traditions. Watch that holiday movie your

family always watches or cook that special dish you only enjoy during the holiday season and invite your friends who also won’t be leaving town to join in the fun.

• Participate in community events. Loneliness on the holiday can contribute to feelings of homesickness, so make an effort to celebrate the holiday with your community. Many communities host special holiday events, be it tree lighting ceremonies, parades or local theater performances of classics such as Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol. Participate in these events, which can lift your holiday spirit and ensure you aren’t spending the holiday alone at home.

Holiday homesickness can be a tough pill to swallow, but there are many ways for men and women to enjoy the holidays even if they won’t be able to see their families.

A world of thanks and best wishes to our neighbours, customers and friends.We feel fortunate to serve great folk like you!

Wylie Seed & Processing Dale, Bill, staff and families 306-948-2807

306-948-2643 • Biggar

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7

Festive sangria perfect for holiday parties (NC) Set a relaxed, festive tone for your holiday party and ensure guests quickly get a drink in hand when they arrive, by preparing easy-to-make Festive Sangria. This crowd-pleasing recipe appeals to both red and white wine lovers alike. Make the Festive Sangria even more special, and save yourself some money, by preparing it using wines you have made yourself. Leave a few bottles of your homemade wine, with a fun, personalized label, on display beside the Festive Sangria so guests can appreciate your homemade touch.

Recipe: • 1 bottle of Red wine such as Pinot Noir or Malbec

• 1 bottle of dry White wine such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc • 1 cup of sugar • 1 orange sliced • 2 limes sliced • 1 lemon sliced • 2 cups sliced strawberries or raspberries (optional) Mix wine and sugar until dissolved. Add sliced citrus fruit, cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours (overnight is ideal). Before serving add fresh red fruit like sliced strawberries or raspberries. Pour over ice and enjoy!

Makes 10 – 12 servings.

Ready your home for holiday guests The song may say, “there’s no place like home for the holidays,” yet many people find their holidays are just as well spent in someone else’s abode. The popular motor club federation AAA says that more than 90 million Americans journey 50 miles or more from home during the year-end holiday season, and each year the number of travelers increases.

When opening their homes to loved ones and friends, hosts want to make their guests feel welcome. Fortunately, there are many ways to do just that.

Establish a cozy nook Determine where your guests will be sleeping.

Do not worry if you do not have a separate guest room. There are other things you can do, such as giving up your own bedroom for the duration of their stay. Otherwise, turn another spot into a guest area. A den or living room with a pullout sofa also might work.

Children’s rooms also are another idea. Let young children camp out in the living room or the basement while you turn

their rooms into spots for your guests. The kids will appreciate the novelty of setting up sleeping bags, and guests will get some measure of privacy.

Have separate guest amenities Invest in some lush towels and wash cloths reserved for guests. Also, have comfortable sheets on hand. Be sure all linens are freshly washed, and have a drawer or two available in case guests want to unpack their suitcases. Keep some toiletries stocked as well. A few extra toothbrushes, mouthwash, soap, and other personal items may be needed to accommodate forgetful guests.

Provide creature comforts Guests won’t be used to the rooms in your house, so be sure that you offer a light for a nightstand and an alarm clock. Nightlights placed in the bathroom or hallway can illuminate unfamiliar surroundings.

Keep a fan on hand so that guests can adjust the temperature in their rooms and also if they need a little white noise while they sleep. A tray with books, magazines

MERRY CHRISTMAS…

and the Wi-Fi code also may be appreciated.

Separate bathroom facilities If possible, devote one bathroom in the house for guests’ use. This way they will have all the privacy they need. Ask if there are any special products they like to use in the bathroom, helping to cut down on the items guests need to bring with them.

Stock favorite foods Make a list of the foods that your guests enjoy and plan a shopping trip to stock up on these items. Encourage guests to have free reign of the kitchen, helping

themselves to snacks or whatever is desired.

Remember to ask about any dietary restrictions, including allergies.

Deep clean your home Clear away unnecessary clutter and give floors a fresh wash or vacuuming, especially if you have pets. Pay special attention to showers and the bathroom itself. You don’t want guests tripping over your belongings.

A few special and simple touches can quickly prepare a home for holiday hosting and entertaining.

For all your support, we are deeply grateful.

MADGE ROOFING Jann, Solana and family

306-948-5453

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

Wishing You Cart loads of Joy May your Christmas and the New Year be filled with health, happiness and prosperity.

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 2015.

Central Plains Co-operative Ltd.

Biggar Electrical Services 306-948-5291 Adrian and Barbara de Haan Lyle Zbeeshko

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

We hope your holiday is filled with lots of good stuff… happiness, friendship, peace, gratitude, goodwill and more of your favourite things!

MERRY CHRISTMAS and thanks for choosing us!

Serving West Central Saskatchewan Board, Management and Staff

Biggar Shop Easy F•O•O•D•S Committed to our Community Greg, Naomi and staff

306-948-5144

306-882-2601

8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Traditions behind holiday gifts

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

The holiday season is a time to celebrate with friends and family. Several holidays are celebrated in this relatively short time period, making this one of the most festive times of the year.

Many holiday celebrations focus on the exchange of presents, which may be exchanged with relatives, friends and even coworkers. But are you familiar with the origins of exchanging gifts?

Gift exchanges trace their origins to both religious and secular traditions, each of which has helped shape the holidays into what they are today.

Christmas People exchange gifts on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day all over the world. For Christians, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, who Christians believe was a gift from the Creator.

From a religious stand-

point, gifting others around Christmastime can be traced back to the stories of the Three Kings (also referred to as the “Three Wise Men”) who visited Jesus after his birth. Frankincense, a fragrance involved in worship; gold; and myrrh, an incense associated with funerals, was presented. These gifts symbolized worship in Christ, that He would be the King of Kings, and that suffering and death would come to Him. Another giver of gifts is part of many Christmas celebrations. St. Nicholas, a fourth century saint, is a beloved figure across the globe who has a reputation for giving gifts in secret and helping the needy. The figure of “Santa Claus” is based on St. Nicholas, and the blending of the two has evolved as history has mixed with folklore and

personal traditions.

Hanukkah Hanukkah is an eightday Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem. The word “hanukkah” actually means “dedication” in Hebrew.

The Jews, including Judah Maccabee, helped drive the Syrians out of Jerusalem. In one of Judaism’s most central texts, Maccabee and others witnessed a miracle at the temple. Even though there was only enough oil to keep a menorah’s candles burning for one day, the flames continued for eight nights.

Traditionally, gelt, or money, was given as a Hanukkah gift. Many Hanukkah gift givers aim to give gifts that are thoughtful and sweet.

Money is not exchanged as much today, with other gifts taking its place.

Kwanzaa Kwanzaa is an American holiday that pays homage to traditions and cultural influences from Africa. The holiday was developed in 1966 by Maulana Ndabezitha Karenga. The focus of Kwanzaa is on family and the harvest as well as certain principles, such as unity and faith.

Gifts make up one of the seven symbols of Kwanzaa celebrations.

However, gift-sharing is not the central part of this special holiday. Gifts are symbolic of the labor and love of parents and the commitments made and kept by their children.

Gifts are exchanged in abundance this time of year. The traditions behind the giving of presents is far-reaching and based in religious, secular and cultural traditions.

Unique gingerbread dip a must-try for holiday entertaining

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.

Spyder AutoBody 948-2044 Fred, Patsy, Curtis, Teagon, Bryor

(NC) Whether you’re hosting a fun and festive party or looking for the perfect end to a dinner with family, this tasty twist on gingerbread is an unexpected dessert that will leave everyone delighted. Lightly sweetened with naturally-sourced stevia and served with your favourite fruit, this calorie-conscious dip tastes deceivingly indulgent but won’t add those dreaded holiday pounds.

Gingerbread Dip Makes 8 servings Ingredients: 1 package (8 oz. or 225 g) reduced fat cream cheese, softened 1 container (5.3 oz. or 150 g) light vanilla-flavoured Greek yogurt 1/2 cup (125 mL) Pure Via Granulated sweetener* 2 tbsp (30 ml) sugar-free table syrup 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice 1/2 tsp (2 ml) ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp (2 ml) ground ginger 1/4 tsp (1 ml) ground nutmeg Fresh mint, optional Sliced fruit, such as strawberries, bananas, pineapple

and cantaloupe Preparation: 1. Combine all ingredients except fruit and mint; mix well. Refrigerate 1 to 2 hours to allow flavours to blend.

2. Garnish dip with mint, if desired. Serve with skewers of fruit.*Or substitute 12 packets Pure Via sweetener Additional dessert ideas are available at www.purevia.ca.Note that stevia, the sweetener in Pure Via, is also known as steviol glycosides.

Nutritional information per serving (1/4 cup dip): Calories: 85, Sodium: 105 mg, Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 4 g, Cholesterol: 22 mg, Protein: 4 g

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

Duperow CO-OP

May your holidays be filled 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

Management and staff

May your season be blessed with joy and success.

Keelar Contracting Ltd. Larry, Colleen family and staff

306-237-9127

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9

Happy Holidays!

Did you know?

What would Christmas gift-giving be without a tree under which to place the presents? Tree shoppers have plenty of variety to choose from when selecting that ideal

tree. Approximately 21,000 Christmas tree farms exist in the United States, and these farms sell between 30 and 35 million real trees each year. Those who prefer

artificial trees can shop for everything from trees that appear to be natural to pastel-hued boughs.

The first printed reference to a Christmas tree was made in 1531 in Ger-

many. Since then, Christmas trees have grown in popularity through the centuries.

We Hope Your Holiday

Gifts no food fanatic should go without Twinkles With Happiness Food plays a big role come the holiday season, when friends and family tend to gather around the dinner table to share good meals and catch up on the year’s happenings. But while food plays an integral role at holiday gatherings, food also makes a great gift for that friend or family member on your holiday list who loves to savor a good meal no matter the time of year.

Thanks in part to

celebrity chefs and television shows that teach viewers how to make gourmet meals at home, it’s now easier than ever before for food lovers to expand their culinary horizons. Gifting such food fanatics can be fun and may even inspire a love of unique cuisine in holiday shoppers, especially those who consider the following gift ideas.

• Cooking kit: Ingredients and other essential elements of good meals

were once taken for granted. But more and more foodies are now creating their own foods from scratch. Bacon fans may fall in love with a kit that helps them cure and smoke their own bacon, while those who love fresh, homemade bread may appreciate a bread-making kit that includes flour, a pan, some recipes, and other items necessary to make the perfect homemade loaf of bread. Cooking kit options are vast, so find a food your loved one can’t go without and purchase the appropriate kit.

• Gardening tools: While the holiday season might not seem like the ideal time to buy your favorite foodie some gardening tools, such items make the perfect gift for your loved one who wants to grow his or her own fruits and vegetables. Locally grown produce has become increasingly popular among foodies focused on eco-conscious cooking practices, and it does not get much more local than home cooks’ own backyards.

• Cutlery set: Though it’s easy to overlook, cutlery goes a long way toward making home cooks’ jobs easier. The right cutlery set, which may include one or two

chef’s knives, a vegetable knife, a santoku knife, a bread knife, and other knives home cooks will appreciate, can make preparing a meal easier and more efficient than cooking without a set.

High-end cutlery sets can cost several hundred dollars, but shoppers on more limited budgets can still find quality cutlery sets for less money.

• Food getaway: Many foodies love to travel so they can experience cuisines popular overseas or in different regions of the country. Men and women whose spouses love food can plan a food-themed getaway weekend to a locale that specializes in a type of food their significant others enjoy or have always wanted to try.

For example, men and women who love lobster may enjoy a trip to Maine’s annual Lobster Festival, while those who can’t get enough barbecue may appreciate a trip to one of the country’s more notable barbecue spots, such as Memphis, Kansas City, North Carolina or Texas.

Food-themed gifts make the perfect holiday present for food fanatics, and shoppers have an endless array of options to satisfy their favorite foodies’ appetites.

As another Christmas season lights up, our hearts are aglow with happiness and gratitude.

We count customers like you among the many gifts we cherish at the holidays and all year long. Thanks for brightening our days with your visits. We wish you and yours all the best!

de Moissac Jewellers Denise, Ross, Elisabeth, Cathy 217 Main St., Biggar

306-948-2452

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 E L L

W I T H

PHARMASAVE® Management and staff 215 Main St., Biggar • 306-948-3315

Treemendous Thanks With apprecition from our entire team, we wish you all a fun-filled and

Merry Christmas!

Thanks so much for supporting us this past year.

We look forward to serving the community in the future.

Biggar & District Health Services Foundation Inc. Box 1003, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

The history behind some beloved Christmas songs

Bright holiday wishes to the best people around… our friends and customers! We wish you all the best at this special time of year.

Thanks for choosing us. We appreciate it!

Management & staff

307 Main St., Biggar

306-948-3712

Holiday traditions vary from family to family, but one component of the holidays that seems to be universally enjoyed is a good Christmas song.

Music is piped throughout malls and stores to entertain shoppers, and favorite tunes may be on the radio or streamed through a digital music service as families decorate their homes.

Many people may love Christmas songs and carols, but not everyone shares the same favorites. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of material when it comes to Christmas songs, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

In 2014, Time magazine researched records at the U.S. Copyright Office to determine the most popular and most recorded Christmas songs since 1978. when copyright registrations were digitized. The fol-

lowing are some of the more beloved holiday tunes and a bit of history about each song.

• “Silent Night”: One of the most rerecorded songs in history (733 versions since 1978), “Silent Night,” was composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber and put to lyrics by Joseph Mohr.

It was first performed on Christmas Eve at St. Nicholas parish church in Oberndorf, a village in Austria. Today’s version is a slow lullaby, but it’s believed the original was a dance-like tune in 6/8 time.

• “O Holy Night”: This popular song was composed by Adolphe Adam in 1847 to a French poem titled, “Minuit, chrétiens (Midnight, Christians).”

Many notable performers, including Perry Como, Céline Dion, Josh Groban, Michael Crawford, and Lea Michele, have performed “O Holy

Night.”

• “Silver Bells”: Now a Christmas classic, “Silver Bells” originally was written for the Bob Hope film, “The Lemon Drop Kid.” Songwriter Jay Livingston wanted to title the song “Tinkle Bell,” but his wife dissuaded him from using the word “tinkle.”

• “White Christmas”: Irving Berlin believed his song “White Christmas” would be an instant hit.

His prediction was correct, especially after singer Bing Crosby recorded it.

• “Jingle Bells”: Although it has become one of the more popular Christmas songs, “Jingle Bells” really was written for Thanksgiving. It’s also one of the oldest holiday songs of American origin. James Lord Pierpont, the song’s author, was inspired by the famous sleigh races of Medford, Massachu-

setts.

• “Do You Hear What I Hear”: Noel Regney wrote this song as a call to peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. The original context has long been forgotten, and “Do You Hear What I Hear” is now a staple of holiday celebrations.

• “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”: James Gillespie wrote this tune while riding a subway and reminiscing about his childhood with his brother. It became a hit after being performed at the famed Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

• “The Christmas Song”: This classic Christmas song was written in 1944

by Bob Wells and Mel Tormé. It’s usually subtitled “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire.” The song was written during a heat wave as a way to think cool thoughts.

It only took 40 minutes to write the music and some of the lyrics. Nat King Cole’s rendition of the song is among the more popular versions.

Christmas songs are enjoyed and performed year after year. Popular songs continue to endure and attract new fans.

We Hope You Get Your Fill of Good Times This Christmas!

As another Christmas comes in for a landing, we’re filled with cheer and gratitude for wonderful customers and friends like you.

Merry Christmas & Many Thanks from our Entire Crew

Biggar Esso Ted, Okso, Marlyn and Tina 306-948-3600

We’d like to chime in with our best wishes and thanks.

Merry Christmas!

One Stop Hardware Jean, Emil, Heather, Tammy, Joyce and Dave

306-948-5626

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

Delicious holiday baked goods with reduced sugar (NC) Many Canadians enjoy baking during the holidays, but are often concerned about eating too much sugar. Now there is an easy way to enjoy holiday treats and also reduce your sugar intake. By substituting new Truvia Baking Blend, a blend of sugar and stevia-based, Truvia calorie-free sweetener for regular sugar, you can obtain delicious baked goods with 75 per cent fewer calories per serving than sugar.

Reduced Sugar Gingerbread Cookies • 3 cups all-purpose flour • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 1/4 tsp baking powder • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter • 1/2 cup Truvía Baking Blend • 2 tsp ground ginger • 2 tsp ground cinnamon • 3/4 tsp ground cloves • 1/2 tsp finely ground pepper • 3/4 tsp coarse salt • 1 large egg • 1/2 cup molasses • Icing and decorations (optional) 1. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder in a large bowl. Set aside.

2. Place butter and Truvía Baking Blend in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, blend on medium speed until fluffy. Mix in spices and salt, then egg and molasses. Add flour mixture, mix until just combined. Divide dough into thirds, wrap each in plastic wrap. Refrigerate until cold.

3. Line baking sheets with parchment paper; set aside. Roll out dough on a clean work surface to 1⁄4-

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 11 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.

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

M & N Repair Mike, Darlene and staff

701-4th Ave. E, Truck Route East, Biggar • 306-948-3996 inch thick. Using a 4-inch gingerbread man–shaped cookie cutter, cut out cookies, and place on a baking sheet, at least 1-inch apart. Refrigerate until cold.

4. Preheat oven to 350° F. Bake cookies until crisp but not dark, 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool on sheets on wire rack.

5. If you are using icing and decorations, decorate cookies and then set aside so icing hardens.

Makes 2 dozen gingerbread men.

Tips for a successful, stress-free holiday travel season Millions of people fly the friendly skies, ride the rails or hit the highway come the holiday season.

Such travel can be both expensive and stressful.

But holiday travel need not be so costly or tense.

The following are a handful of tips to help travelers enjoy successful and stress-free travel this holiday season.

• Reserve early. Fares only rise as the holidays draw closer. It’s unlikely you will score a lastminute deal by waiting until the last minute to book holiday travel, as discount fares are largely a thing of past. If your travel schedule is inflexible, book as early as possible. You might be able to save some money if you have some flexibility with regard to your travel schedule.

• Fly on the holiday.

Very often flying on popular holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, is less expensive than flying on the surrounding days. If your goal is to save money and you don’t mind showing up on the holiday itself, then flying on the holiday may earn you the most savings.

• Book a business hotel.

Hotels that cater to business clientele in big cities often reduce their rates during the holidays, when business travel tends to wane.

• Consider flying into and out of smaller airports. What they lack in size, number of flights and modern comforts, smaller airports can make up for

in fewer delays and smaller crowds. Flying into and out of a smaller airport may be especially advantageous if such an airport is closer to your home or final destination.

• Get pre-screened security clearance. The TSA Pre-Check Program enables some people to move quickly through security checkpoints. This can help save a considerable amount of time. Visit www.tsa.gov to learn who qualifies.

• Do not wrap gifts prior to traveling. If you must bring gifts along, your move through security will likely be quicker if those gifts are not wrapped.

Unwrapped gifts save officers the time of removing wrapping paper to inspect what’s inside, so reserve

the wrapping for when you arrive at your destination.

• Have an alternate plan in place. Unforeseeable delays or cancellations can turn even the most carefully planned itinerary on its head. Keep phone numbers for taxi services and hotels handy just in case your flight is delayed and you do not want to spend a night at the airport.

• Avoid domestic or popular holiday destinations. One way to avoid the holiday crowds is to head off for parts of the world that are not celebrating the same holiday as you. Such locales likely won’t attract as many tourists as other parts of the world, and you might be able to save money by

visiting during the offseason.

• Take your turn hosting. People who do the holiday hosting do not have to worry about holiday travel at all. Even though it can mean more prep work and cleanup, hosting duty saves you the headaches and expenses of holiday travel.

May your year be fitted 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

12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Ministerial Reflections brought to you by the Biggar Ministerial Association

A Strange Story Indeed

by Rev. Jane Gallagher, Biggar United Church Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38) Imagine being Mary.

You are young and dreaming of beginning a new life with the man you are betrothed to. You are going about your day with your head in the clouds, being more happy than you could ever have imagined, tempered with a bit

of anxiety. When you are busy dreaming about your future, an angel comes and visits you! “Greetings favoured one! The Lord is with you!”

We are told that Mary was “perplexed by the angel’s words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.” Yes, it’s one thing to know God loves you and watches over you, but you know something is up, when God sends a special messenger to have a one-on-

one chat with you; to tell you that God has special plans for you. Yes, I think we would all be perplexed, if not terrified, if an angel came to us one day and told use that God had a great idea that God wanted us to be a part of.

Mary must have been more than perplexed . . . the angel immediately tells her “Do not be afraid Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now you will conceive in your womb and bear a

by Pastor Terry Wicks, Biggar AGC Church The sky is filled with stars. Each clear night we can see them sparkling.

But one evening, some 2,000 years ago, a star of distinction appeared, the star of Bethlehem.

What was it about that star that compelled the magi, priest-scientists or “wise men”, to leave their country of ancient Persia, and follow it?

Stars are best understood by astronomers, but the star of Bethlehem didn’t follow the pattern from their vast knowledge of the heavenly bodies.

There was more to this star than its vital statistics.

This star is revealed and appears in the Scriptures only in chapter 2 of Matthew’s Gospel. The non-Jewish visitors arrived after their long journey in

Jerusalem, the religious and political capital of Judea.

On arriving, they asked, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.”

Their question about a Jewish king in a Romanoccupied city, where puppet King Herod sat on the throne, prompted skepticism, fear, and wonder. On learning of their inquiry, troubled King Herod asked religious leaders and scholars where the Christ was to be born. They found the answer in the prophecy of Micah, that the Messiah-King was to be born in Bethlehem of Judea (Micah 5:2).

As the magi headed toward Bethlehem, the star they had followed reappeared to their great joy, and led them directly

to the Christ child. When they saw Jesus, they worshipped him and presented their gifts, fit for a king.

The star they followed is more wonderful for us as an unsolved mystery.

Most important though is its meaning, for this star of wonder calls us still to come and worship Christ the Lord.

The wonder of the star of Bethlehem is that it shines bright enough that anyone can come to know and worship the Christ child. Then, it shone for Greeks, Romans, Arabians, and anyone else who might seek him.

The tiny child the magi found and worshiped is the Lord of creation. The star leads to the light of his presence, and all are invited to seek and worship him, just as the magi did.

“Star of Wonder. Star of Night.”

Christmas Reflections

by Marjorie Fortney, Biggar Seventh-Day Adventist Church Not just humanity, but Divinity, wrapped in a tiny little body became part of the human experience one night 2,000-plus years ago.

Such an incredible miracle! Such an incredible event! The Creator of the cosmos came to live here for a short 33 years.

Yet, no fanfare, no parade, no newspaper headlines, nothing, except one glorious spectacular presentation of angelic host to a few poor shepherds watching over their flocks on the slopes of the Bethlehem hills.

Not to mention that this child was born in a barn and a manger was

his first crib.

Not even His own people, who claimed they were waiting for the Messiah, were there to greet Him. The Pharisees and the Sadducees, those learned men of the Sanhedrin, surely they must have known the time was at hand for the Messiah to be born.

Surely they were aware of the more than 100 prophecies concerning this even giving great detail of when and where this event was to take place. Perhaps the Jewish leader had a different plan? Could it be they were waiting for a Messiah that would deliver them from the yoke of the Roman Empire, rather than a Messiah who would

deliver them from sin.

The celebration of Christmas is merry and bright because, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1:14) He came to offer His life as a “one-time” atonement for sin, that whosoever may come and be saved. He came because an enemy had hijacked His creation and He wanted to rescue His children.

And you thought Star Wars was just a movie!

The story is not over.

“I will come again,” Jesus said. This time let’s all go out to meet Him. In the meantime let’s do what He said was really important. “Love one another.”

son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

Perplexed. Terrified.

And now dumbfounded.

How would a child be born to be king, when her husband was a lowly carpenter? I wonder if Mary thought she was losing her grip on reality. Or perhaps the angel was losing grip on reality . . . flying too high to the clouds perhaps?

“How can this be, since I am a virgin?” Obviously the wheels are still turning, as Mary is trying to get her head around the logistics of all this.

Did she miss something important in the angel’s words, that would explain this little detail to her?

Yet the conversation carries on, like two people meeting on the street discussing the details on the weather. Yes, the angel tells here – there is proof, just look at your relative Elizabeth, barren and beyond child bearing years, who is now in her sixth month of pregnancy

. . . go see, and you will have proof this is really happening and that God is working in the two of you. Yes, one woman past the age and ability to conceive, the other a humble young woman just betrothed to her future husband – God likes us to look up and pay attention, by using interesting little details like this.

Nothing is impossible with God, the angel tells Mary. And Mary, thinking about all of these things, says, “Yes,” – well actually Luke tells us it was more like, “Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.”

In this season of Advent, and in our journey to celebrating Christ’s birth, we too ponder the words of the angel, the unexpected twists and turns in people’s lives, the gentle assurance that God is doing wondrous things in unlikely people in the most interesting, if not impossible of ways.

For us, it raises the question, to how open are we to hearing the words of God? How open are we to having conversations with God’s messengers, to ponder the words and events going on around us, and opening our hearts, minds

and imagination, to let God do wondrous things through us?

The birth of Jesus shows us that God can and does do the impossible through us . . . as unlikely and improbable, and even as crazy as it may seem; God wants us to be a part of what God is planning and calls us to be a part of giving birth to God’s dreams in the world.

In this season of Advent waiting, and preparing for the birth and return of Christ, let us take the time and ponder on what God is saying to us, and calling us to be and do with our lives.

May we, like Mary and Joseph, Elizabeth and Zechariah, and countless others, dare to let God’s love grow in us, and give birth to God’s dreams for the world. May you ponder what God is saying to you this Christmas, and may you have the courage and the passion, as Mary did, to say yes, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.”

The rich and wonderfilled blessings of Christmas, be with you this seasons, and every day.

Thoughts at Winter Solstice

by Archie Jantzen, on behalf of Perdue United Church I’ve been curious about the sun.

We are increasingly concerned about the rather small temperature range within which life as we know it is possible.

So, I was wondering, as we approach the winter solstice, of all the energy emitted by the sun, what percentage actually hits this planet?

I’m imagining a sphere (ball) the size that would fit the earth’s orbit – roughly 93 million miles radius. Using the formula for the surface area of a sphere, I’d say the area of this imaginary ball is about 108,730 trillion square miles.

Then I imagine a tiny coin to represent the spot occupied by the earth, and calculate its area to be a bit under 50 million square miles. This one turns out to be about 0.000,000,045 per cent of the other.

Maybe I’m way off, but if you are into geometry, feel free to check up on me.

I guess I knew before I started, that the energy that keeps our whole world going is less than a drop in the bucket out of all the energy our sun has been churning out for many centuries before Albert Einstein was born.

It’s definitely more than my little brain can grasp.

All right, but the One who spoke our sun (and billions of others, astronomers tell us) into being, chose to love me enough to send His own Son to be a little baby in a manger, to rescue me from a hopeless end.

That, too, is more than my little brain can grasp, but I believe it and stake my life on it.

Come to think of it, there was a special star that told the eastern astronomers about His arrival. Perhaps that was actually a planet or alignment of planets.

Anyway, its all part of the great system of suns and galaxies that make of the universe.

Now, that Gift, Who was born with the express purpose of dying a horrible death for my sake, is called the Lamb of God. And in the great culmination of everything, when I expect to be in the New Jerusalem, that belongs to the New Heaven and the New Earth, I read that there is no need for the sun, because “the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp.” (Rev. 21:23, NIV).

That, too, is more than my little brain can grasp, but if it’s “just” symbolism, I’m sure that the reality it represents will be even more unimaginable than the incredible word picture in the Book!

May this season of celebration fill you with an overwhelming sense of His incredible love.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 13

Happy Holidays!

Biggar Church of God Christmas Reflection

A sense of purpose

by Pastor Mark Kleiner and PALS I spent a whole lot of time in school learning important ideas which, as important as they are, pale in comparison to what really matters to most of us: a sense of belonging, to know – despite the evidence, despite the odds – that our lives mean more than a fitful and futile wresting with the crush of insignificance and the looming finality of death.

The American rock group The Pretenders has a memorable song from the 1980s with a chorus that pleads, Gimme a sense of purpose, a real sense of purpose now (the song’s title, fittingly enough, is ‘Sense of Purpose’).

As I write these reflections, I wonder if anyone reading these pitiful scraps of thoughts has a yearning to know she or he truly belongs, and I ask myself: How do any of us evr come to know such a thing? Like, to really know it in one’s bones, and not just as a concept, abstraction, or ideal?

In the church, we have traditionally insisted, and I believe correctly, that such belonging only comes through our relationship with God – not the least of

which because we as human beings, as beautiful and loving as we can somtimes be, live shot through with brokenness and sin, like time bombs of disappointment and discontent, and we therefore have no business filling the role of higher power for anyone else, let alone ourselves.

But where I think we in the church often go wrong is when we move from this diagnosis, to then place an inordinate amount of emphasis on belief – imploring people to make a confession and turn their lives over to Jesus, as if belief itself were the determinative element in all of this. I don’t think it is. In fact, I think belief often comes pretty far along in the process, and pretty far down the list.

So why do I bring all this up in a Christmas reflection?

Well, because time and again people tell me how they love the Christmas music and candlelight, but don’t ‘buy into’ some or all of the basic Christian beliefs.

I sense that some people feel insincere and even guilty about coming to worship when they are not totally (or even remotely) convinced that this Jesus thing is for real.

wanted to take her “pew” with her. Thinking that she forgot something in the pew, I went back several times to check for whatever belonging she had lost. I kept coming back to her and that there was nothing there.

She got quite agitated, “I want my pew! I want my pew!”

Later, I realized that she had meant she wanted to take the candle back to her room and simply gotten mixed up with her words, being that she was tired.

This year mother will take in all of heaven’s festivities in remembering the birth of the Christ Child. We can only imagine what that will be like!

That first Christmas over 2,000 years ago, the angels could no contain their joy at the birth of Jesus. They were greatly involved in announcing the birth before hand and announcing the joyous news that Heaven’s gift had come to earth. They announced that this was Good News for all the

Guess what? If you’re doubtful, cynical, fitful, anxious, uncertain, and/ or afraid, you belong.

On any given Sunday, there is a wide range of beliefs held by those in the pews (not to mention the pulpits), and yet we still make a point of getting together on a regular basis, to sing and to pray, and to seek God’s direction for our lives.

And together we come to discover – despite the evidence and despite the odds – a real sense of purpose, guided as we are by the one whose birth we celebrate at Christmas.

The one who comes and brings good news to the poor; freedom for the prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind; and release for the oppressed.

From the entire PALS community, Merry Christmas!

earth!

Surely mother will be amazed at the lights, the angels, and the candles and of Christ Himself. I expect mother will be holding her own candle in celebration with all the others. Mother and father and their relatives who have loved Jesus will also be there – so it will be a grand reunion as they all glorify the King of Kings.

Meanwhile, I will be becoming the old lady.

Maybe one day, I may insist on taking my “pew” with me. I hope that the younger ones will be patient with me. And then one day, I, too, will be at the heavenly celebration of the Birthday of the Lord Jesus Christ.

My desire is that each of you will also make that choice to trust

Jesus as your personal Savior, so that you, too, will one day be at the wonderful celebration – worshipping our Lord and Savior, who was wiling to come to earth, as a babe and grow up and go to the cross to die for our sins, and then be resurrected and live forevermore!

O Come, O Come Emmanuel Dear friends of this wonderful part of the world.

The season of Advent and Christmas and New Year’s is filled with names and words and sounds and smells that remind us of great generosity.

When we are persons of great generosity we are remembering what Jesus did for us – Jesus came to show us what a meaningful life looks like and to save us that we might know perfect happiness in heaven.

All have received the invitation – no one can say I was excluded.

Isaiah longed for the Messiah. Others did

too. Gabriel asked a young Mary if she would cooperate with God. She said yes. Joseph also was pleased to be asked.

Angels sang praises announcing the birth of Jesus to shepherds who went in haste to see, and kings followed with gifts and came to adore. We can hear the donkey and the bull and sheep breathing warmth to the child – giving their all. We are invited to do all we can for Jesus and neighbour.

I can smell meat pies and turkey cooking in our kitchen under the watchful eye of a providing Dad and loving

Christmas Season Services ST. GABRIEL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Biggar ~ SUN., DEC. 20… 11 a.m., Mass THURS., DEC. 24…

8:30 p.m. - Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 27… 11 a.m., Mass FRI., JAN. 1… 11 a.m., New Year’s Day Mass SUN., JAN. 3… 9 a.m., Mass

BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN., DEC. 20…11 a.m., Service of Joy Singers choir music and Sunday School Nativity Service, all are welcome!

THURS., DEC. 24…

7:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Service No worship service December 27 SUN., JAN. 3, 11 a.m., Sacrament of Communion and service. Join for potluck lunch following service!

BIGGAR ASSOCIATED GOSPEL CHURCH ~

Mom. Christmas and New Year’s Day (when we received lots of relatives) would be joyful and festive once again. Mom played piano that had belonged to Dad’s mom and we all sang carols.

We made our Christmas confessions and went to Christmas mass.

Each year during these days great memories are relived and I am grateful for a good Dad and Mom and a wonderful family.

May God bless you abundantly during these days and in 2016.

Much Love, Father Michel Bedard, Our Lady of Fatima and St. Gabriel Parish.

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 ~ SUN., DEC. 20… 9 a.m., Mass THURS., DEC. 24…

6:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 27… 9 a.m. Mass FRI., JAN. 1… 9 a.m. New Year’s Day Mass SUN., JAN. 3… 9 a.m., Mass

PERDUE UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 20… 9:30 a.m., Fourth Advent Carol Service THURS., DEC. 24… 7 p.m., Christmas Eve Service No services December 29 & tmonth of January.

ASQUITH UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 20… 11 a.m., Fourth Advent Carol Service THURS., DEC. 24… 8:15 p.m., Christmas Eve Service

SUN., DEC. 20… 10:50 a.m.

SUN. DEC. 27…10:50 a.m., Worship Service with Communion PALS COMMUNITY CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 20…

10:30 a.m., Fourth Sunday of Advent Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church THURS., DEC. 24: Christmas Eve, 7 p.m.

Candlelight Service at St. Paul’s FRI., DEC. 25… 10:30 a.m., Christmas Morning Service at Redeemer Lutheran Church SUN., DEC. 27: First Sunday of Christmas Service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 10:30 a.m.

SUN., JAN. 3: Epiphany of Our Lord at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 10:30 a.m.

SEVENth DAY ADVENTIST ~ SAT. DEC. 20…Christmas Music Program, 7 p.m.at The Majestic Theatre, Biggar SATURDAYS… meet 10 a.m. -12 p.m. at Church of God on 6th Ave. East.

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Christmases. My parents always looked forward to having family around.

And father would always pack a peanut and candy bag for each person – even when the family grew very large. And for father it was important to have an abundance of food and the only time of the year that you could have as much candy as you wanted until the abundant supply was gone.

After my father passed away, mother looked forward to having her family around even more. The last several Christmases we took her to our annual Christmas Eve service. She loved the candlelight part of the service. She longed to have a candle to take back to her room with her.

Last year, we realized that this was probably her last candlelight service.

It was simply too late in the evening for her and she seemed disoriented.

Her dementia really demonstrated itself as we were leaving. She kept insisting that she

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by Rev. Bev Dyck of the Biggar Church of God Mother always loved Christmas.

She did not mind if we did not celebrate it right on Christmas Day, as long as we celebrated it early.

This is the first Christmas that she is celebrating it in heaven.

The first Christmas that I remember I was about two years old. I was not aware that there was such a thing as Christmas.

My father came in from milking the cows and my mother said, “Should we?

Should we?”

I did not have a clue what this was all about.

My father must have agreed because the next thing I know, mother had opened the top dresser drawer and took out two police cars. She handed one to my older brother and one to me. Though I was a girl, this was a wonderful present for me.

My brother and I happily revved those police cars and sped them around the kitchen floor with the sirens screaming.

There were many

14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Merry Christmas!

How to avoid the holiday shopping rush Holiday shopping can be both fun and hectic.

While it’s fun to scour stores looking for can’tmiss gifts for your loved ones, shopping amongst the crowds also can prove hectic.

While online shopping has made department stores somewhat less crowded come the holiday season, take note that online shopping during the 2014 holiday season accounted for just one-sixth of all holiday shopping. The opportunity to see and feel potential gifts in person compels many people to do the majority of their holiday shopping in-store, and there are ways for such shoppers to avoid the holiday shopping rush as they begin their quests for the perfect gifts.

• Shop during off-peak hours. Weekends and weeknight evenings tend to be the busiest times to go holiday shopping.

Professionals who have weekends off may put off their shopping during the week, choosing to do so on Saturday and Sunday afternoons when they have extra time to browse and comparison shop. Shopping off-peak hours, such as during weekday mornings or

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

Hon. Gerry Ritz, P.C., M.P.

Battlefords - Lloydminster www.gerryritz.ca

To All Our Membe rs W

e ’ve ha But we d a great yea r k That w now that it’s true, e could n’ Withou t all of t have done it you!

even early mornings on weekends, is a great way to avoid crowds. Parents of young children might want to take a morning or even a full day off of work to get their holiday shopping done so they can avoid shopping with their kids in tow.

You can probably move around more quickly if you choose to shop while the kids are in school, and this also affords you time to find gifts for the kids.

• Make a list. Knowing what you want to buy online can decrease the amount of time you spend wandering around malls and stores. The longer you linger without an idea of what to buy, the greater the chance you will be joined by fellow shoppers. If possible, call stores before you leave the house to confirm if they have certain items in stock, or buy items online from retailers who offer an in-store pickup option. Checkout lines for in-store pickup items are often separated from more traditional checkout lines, further reducing your risk of waiting in long lines.

• Shop local businesses.

Small local businesses may not boast the inventory of larger retailers you’re liable to encoun-

ter at the mall, but local small businesses tend to deal with thinner crowds than national stores during the holiday season. Items in such businesses may be more unique than items sold at nationwide retailers, and when you shop at smaller businesses, you likely won’t be forced to hunt for parking spots or wait on long checkout lines.

• Start shopping early.

Crowds only grow bigger and more impatient between Black Friday and the final days before

Christmas, so shoppers who can find the time to shop before the height of the shopping season might find parking lots and checkout lines more to their liking. In addition, shopping early affords shoppers more time to find the best deals.

The holiday shopping rush hits full swing in the weeks before Christmas Day, but there are many ways shoppers can get their shopping done and avoid the crowds at the same time.

Merry Christmas to you and your family from our families at Battleford Furniture! an livers ay de matter d i l o hat ur h eess, pe yo gifts t We ho nce of the lth, happin ne. a u a t d e r abun cluding h d good fo ! n rs n i a u , t o mos ship, love ou and y y d n o t e i fr ishes Best w

Boar d, M

anag

emen

t and

Staff

192-24th Street West, Battleford

Phone 306-937-7474

www.battlefordfurniture.com

Fax 306-937-7676

mail@battlefordfurniture.com

BATTLEFORD FURNITURE

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

Keep poinsettias looking great through the holidays Along with the fragrant evergreens and twinkling lights synonymous with the holiday season, poinsettias make up a key component of holiday decorating.

Unlike holly and some of the other greenery that is commonly associated with the holidays, poinsettias do not naturally thrive in the colder temperatures. These plants originate in southern Mexico and were considered an exotic plant when first introduced to the United States by Joel Robert Poinsett, the first American ambassador to Mexico.

Poinsettias can be fickle plants and ones that gardening novices may find challenging to maintain. The plants are comprised of green foliage, colorful (often red) flower bracts, and the actual flowers of the plants, which are the red or green buttonlike parts nestled in the center of the bracts.

Because they are a

tropical plant, poinsettias can be damaged by exposure to low temperatures, even if they are only exposed for short periods of time. They should be wrapped and protected against the elements when brought home. For maximum plant life, poinsettias need to be placed near a warm, sunny window, or another area that has ample amounts of light.

They thrive in temperatures between 60 and 75 F and should be kept away from warm or cold drafts.

Water the plant whenever the surface feels dry to the touch. Water until it drains out the bottom, but don’t let the plant sit in water.

Over- or under-watering can cause leaves to drop prematurely and wilt.

If your home lacks in humidity, you may need to water the plant more frequently. Poinsettias do not need to be fertilized while the plant is in bloom.

Five essential winter travel tips for seniors (NC) This season, if you’re among the hundreds of thousands of travellers flying to reunite with family and friends or simply to escape the cold, the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) offers five tips that will help you get through security faster.

1. Gifts. If you’re bringing gifts, leave them unwrapped as their contents may need to be inspected. Some airports offer post-security gift wrapping services.

2. Liquids, gels and aerosols. If you’re travelling with non-solid food, beverages or personal products in your carry-on baggage, containers must be 100ml or smaller and they must be placed in a one-litre clear, re-sealable plastic bag. Larger containers should be placed in your checked baggage.

3. Medication. Prescription and essential non-prescription medications (e.g. cough syrup, decongestant spray, contact lens solution) are exempt from the liquid, aerosol and gel restrictions. You should be ready to present these items to the screening officer for inspection.

4. Clothing. Wear easyto-remove outerwear that can easily be placed in the bins provided at the checkpoint. Avoid belts with a large buckle, cloth-

ing with metal snaps or clips or large pieces of jewellery that could set off the metal detector.

5. Assistance. If you need help at the checkpoint, look for the Family/ Special Needs lane. This lane has screening equipment that can accommodate larger items like mobility aids. The screening officers will offer additional assistance.

The Ohio State University Extension says poinsettias can be reflowered the following Christmas, but unless a yearlong schedule of care is observed, the results usually are not good. You can speak with a gardening expert or consult online resources for the proper care schedule.

Caring for a poinsettia year-round involves gradually drying out the plant and storing it in a cool location. The plant later will be moved outdoors and then back inside and pruned to keep a full shape.

Poinsettias are shortday plants, which means

they flower about 10 weeks after the daylight shortens to about 12 hours or less. Therefore, to have the plant in full flower by Christmas, it will have to be kept in complete darkness between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. from the first part of October until Thanksgiving. Many people find the affordability of poinsettias makes it more convenient to buy new ones each year than try to foster regrowth.

Contrary to popular belief, poinsettias are not poisonous to humans or animals, but they should not be ingested due to the potential for allergic

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15 reactions. Poinsettias can help remove pollutants from indoor air, which is advantageous during the winter months when doors and windows are typically kept closed.

Select plants that have

dark green foliage and no low or damaged leaves.

This ensures the best success for keeping poinsettias looking healthy and vibrant throughout the holiday season.

Time to pause and be thankful for what we have, a agreat community surrounded by family, friends and good neighbours!

from the Landis Credit Union Team Board and Staff Your local Credit Union serving Landis since 1942 and looking forward to serving you in the years to come. We provide Financial Services to our members, but our business is people!

Landis Credit Union Limited 306-658-2152

Wishing You a Jolly-Good Christmas 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

As we dash toward Christmas Day, we’d like to wish you and yours a very happy holiday!

Hope it’s merry and bright with just the right amount of excitement. Thanks for everything you’ve done to make us smile this year. We appreciate your patronage, and we wish you all the best!

Crop Production Services, Landis Management and staff 306-658-2002

16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas and

Happy Holidays from Dr. Kirk Ewen, Dr. Jason Garchinski and staff

1-855-651-3311

You’re on Our List …of good folks we want to thank this year!

Merry Christmas!

1ST AVENUE COLLISION CENTER LTD. 306-948-3356 Jeff and Cindy

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Merry Christmas!

Making the Christmas tree the heart of your holiday home (NC) The Christmas tree is one of the oldest holiday customs. It brings warmth to the home and is at the centre of many family traditions. A growing number of Canadians are opting for artificial trees.

Today’s artificial trees offer lasting beauty with finishes that are easy to mistake for natural trees.

With the large selection of tree types and range of shapes and sizes available, they offer a tremendous amount of design versatility. They are clean and maintenance free, plus features like integrated lights make set up and teardown quick and easy.

The first step is selecting a tree that works for your space, ensuring it’s in proportion to the rest of the room. Seven and a half foot trees are most popular because they work with ceiling heights of eight to nine feet. The Hallmark Tree

is a great option to meet these requirements. It’s a pre-lit frosted pine with branches that are designed to display holiday cards and photos.

You need approximately five feet of depth for a seven and a half foot tree or six feet of depth for a nine foot tree, which is a great option for rooms with ceilings ten feet or higher.

With all trees, it’s important that they don’t look crowded. Allow for a three inch cushion of space between furniture and walls. The nine foot EZ Slim Aspen Fir with colour changing lights is a great choice for a smaller room with a high ceiling – think loft condo. This tree features Easy Light Technology with hidden cords and a tidy plug to help keep floor space decluttered.

For homes with soaring ceiling heights, the twelve-foot colour changing lit tree is a stately

tree that is sure to add a wow-factor. The lights change colour at the touch of a foot switch providing elegant illumination in warm white, multicolour, and changing colour to suit any décor need.

Start your own family traditions this season with a tree selected specially for your home. It’s the foundation of your family’s personal style and a focal point of holiday cheer.

Cozy up to a comforting mug of festive cider (NC) After a day of outdoor winter fun, warm up with this guilt-free variation on a long-time holiday favourite. Made with only a handful of ingredients and lightly sweetened with naturally-sourced stevia, this beverage is tasty, easy to make and sugar-free, so it’s ideal for the whole family to enjoy.

Cinnamon Cider Makes 4 servings Ingredients: 4 cups (1 litre) apple juice 1 tablespoon (15 ml) liquid sweetener 4 teaspoons (20 ml) lemon juice 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground cinnamon 4 cinnamon sticks, optional

Preparation:1. Heat apple juice in a saucepan on medium heat until steaming.

2. Remove from heat and stir in remaining ingredients. Serve in mugs with a stick of cinnamon as a garnish, if desired.*Or substitute 6 packets Pure Via sweetener Additional family-friendly beverage ideas are available at www.purevia.ca.Note that stevia, the sweetener in Pure Via, is also known as steviol glycosides.

Nutritional information per serving (250 mL): Calories: 115, Sodium: 10 mg, Fat: 0 g, Carbohydrates: 29 g, Cholesterol: 0 mg, Protein: <0 g

Happy Holidays from Happy from Holidays Prairie Malt Limited Cargill Limited -Prairie Malt Employees

EMPLOYEES

The Foundation wishes to thank all who have assisted with their monetary donations. Without your help, we could not support may local organizations with their projects.

May this Christmas season remind all of us of the joy in our lives and of the joy given to others due to your support.

Biggar & District Community Foundation extends to all a Joyful Christmas and Happy New Year!

Box 489, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17

The benefits to buying local this holiday season Holiday shopping dominates many people’s free time between the day after Thanksgiving and the final days before Christmas. While many people may shop ‘til they drop on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, those days still account for a relatively small amount of the hundreds of billions of dollars that are spent each holiday season.

Shoppers now have a bevy of options at their disposal as they embark on holiday shopping season. Traditional in-store retailers are still around, and online shopping continues to grow in popularity with each holiday season. But many holiday shoppers are looking to buy local this holiday season, and such a decision can pay a host of dividends for both shoppers and the communities they call home.

• Buying local benefits your local economy.

Studies from Civic Economics, an economics

and strategics planning firm, found that independent, locallyowned retailers return a far greater percentage of their revenue into their local economies than national chain stores. One such study examined the disparity between revenue recirculation among independent, locally-owned businesses in Raleigh, North Carolina, versus four major national chains in the city. The former recirculated 51.1 percent of revenue into the local economy, while the latter recirculated less than 14 percent. Similar results were discovered in many cities, indicating that buying local not only benefits local business owners, but also the communities those owners and their customers call home.

• Buying local creates jobs in your community.

One of the biggest ways local business owners in Raleigh recirculated their revenue in the

local economy was job creation. While national chains also create jobs, such jobs only benefit your community if the chains are located within your community. If your local mall is a considerable drive away, chances are the chains within that mall are not employing many of your fellow community members.

Local businesses in your community are more likely to employ residents of your town.

• Shopping local may provide access to more unique gifts. In addition to the economic benefits of buying local, shoppers may find merchandise made by local craftsmen is more unique than mass-produced items found on the shelves of national retailers. Recipients may cherish more unique items that they cannot find on their own, and that appreciation may even spur them to visit more local retailers after the holiday season has come and gone, ben-

efiting their own communities in so doing.

• Local business may provide a more personal touch. Buying from national chains has its advantages, but customer service is not always one of them. Should your loved ones encounter problems with their gift that requires assistance, they might be forced to wait on the phone for extended periods of time as they and thousands of others wait for customer service representatives to answer their calls. Local businesses do not deal with nearly the volume of customers as national retailers and, therefore, are capable of addressing concerns more quickly and personally than large chains.

Buying local not only benefits small business owners, but it also pays dividends for their customers and the communities they call home.

Cake mix cookie duo (NC) This duo of soft and chewy cookies will be a welcome addition to any dessert table. Using cake mix makes preparing the dough quick and simple with delicious results.

Prep time: 25 minutes Bake time: 12 minutes (for one type of cookie) Yields: approximately 80 cookies (40 of each type) Ingredients: Chewy Jujube Cookies • 1 box white cake mix • 2 large eggs, well beaten • 1/2 cup (125 mL) unsalted butter, room temperature • 1 cup (250 mL) jujubes, cut in half Minty Double Chocolate Cookies • 1 box devil’s food cake mix • 2 large eggs, well beaten • 1/2 cup (125 mL) unsalted butter, room temperature • 1/2 tsp (2 mL) peppermint extract • 2 pkgs chocolate mint buds Preparation method for each type of cookie: 1. Preheat oven to 350F (175C). Line two baking trays with parchment paper; set aside.

2. In a medium bowl thoroughly combine cake mix,

eggs and butter until smooth. Portion into 1 tbsp (15 mL) sized balls and set 4-5 cm apart on prepared baking trays.

3. Bake 6-7 minutes. Remove trays from the oven.

Decorate using jujubes (cut side down) or mint buds, pressing firmly into the cookies to ensure they stick.

Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes longer or until just starting to brown around the edges. Cool completely on the tray before serving.

Tips: Cut the jujubes in half using a pair of scissors or small knife.

Merry Christmas!

With thanks and warm wishes from all of us to all of you.

Phillips Electric Biggar • 306-948-5393 or 1-306-221-6888 Dave and staff

Peace On Earth…

Goodwill Towards All Mankind… …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

SOMETHING TO CELEBRATE

MAY HAPPINESS AND BEAUTY ADORN EACH DAY OF THIS FESTIVE SEASON. WE HOPE YOUR HOLIDAY AND THE COMING YEAR ARE STREWN WITH GOOD FORTUNE, HEALTH,M

Saskatoon/Biggar

Duane Neufeldt Serving Biggar and Area

306-948-8055

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 Ogrodnick 306-948-3381

JOY AND PROSPERTITY. AS WE CELEBRATE ALL THE THINGS WE ARE GRATEFUL FOR THIS YEAR, WE COUNT YOU AMONG OUR BLESSINGS. THANK YOU FOR THE PLEASEURE OF YOUR COMPANY AND YOUR FAITH IN OUR BUSINESS.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Tyler Kachur, Alan Koop and partners 306-948-5133/ 306-657-8999

18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Treat loved ones to homemade biscotti Another opportunity to tell you how much we appreciate your support.

Happy Holidays!

~ Board and staff ~

Wishing our four-legged friends, all the creature comforts of a joyous and memorable holiday seasonâ&#x20AC;Ś lots of good times and good memories.

THE COUNTRY CLIPPER

Season Greetings!

GROOMING & BOARDING

Natural health care for pets.

Janet Moon and staďŹ&#x20AC; t

With thanks and glad tidings from us this holiday season.

Gift CertiďŹ cates available

KRF Auto Centre â&#x20AC;˘ Granitex Baked-on Coating â&#x20AC;˘ Vortex Spray-in Box liners â&#x20AC;˘ Auto Accessories â&#x20AC;˘ Detailing â&#x20AC;˘ Trailer Rentals 227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar â&#x20AC;˘ 306-948-1722

With thanks to all of those whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve inspired us this past year. We are truly grateful for your friendship and continued loyalty .

Seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Greetingsâ&#x20AC;Ś Sandy, Helen, Jeffery, Jenna, Pat and Deb

(NC) Sometimes the best gifts are edible. This year, spread some holiday cheer to a friend, neighbour, or colleague with a freshly baked batch of crisp and flavourful biscotti. Package these delicious cookies in a decorative tin and attach a handwritten note containing the recipe so recipients can bake them as well.

Lightly sweetened with naturally-sourced stevia, no one will guess these thoughtful offerings are only 83 calories per serving.

Lemon Cranberry Biscotti Makes 24 servings Ingredients:2-1/4 cups (550 mL) all-purpose flour 1 cup (250 mL) Pure Via Granulated sweetener* 1 cup (250 ml) dried cranberries 2 tbsp (30 ml) grated lemon peel 2 tsp (10 ml) baking powder 3 large eggs 3 tbsp (45 ml) butter, melted 2 tbsp (30 ml) fresh lemon juice 2 tsp (10 ml) vanilla Preparation: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Combine flour, Pure Via, cranberries, lemon peel and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, butter, lemon juice and vanilla until well blended.

3. Pour liquid ingredients over dry ingredients. Stir

together using a rubber spatula until a stiff dough is formed. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead in any remaining bits of dough. Divide dough in half. Gently form each half into a log 12 x 11/2 inches. Place on a parchment paper covered baking sheet, leaving at least 3 inches between the logs. Flatten the top of each with the palm of your hand until the log is 2-inches wide. Bake 23 to 25 minutes or until the top of the log is firm to the touch.

4. Cool the logs completely on the baking sheet on a wire rack.

5. Reduce oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).

Carefully remove the cooled logs to a cutting board.

Cut each diagonally into 1/2-inch wide slices. Place on the same baking sheet. Bake 15 to 18 minutes or until slices are dry and light golden in colour. Cool biscotti on baking sheet on a wire rack. Store at room temperature in container with tight fitting lid. *Or substitute 24 packets Pure Via sweetener.

Additional dessert ideas are available at www.purevia.ca.Note that stevia, the sweetener in Pure Via, is also known as steviol glycosides.

Nutritional information per serving (2 biscotti): Calories: 83, Sodium: 68 mg, Fat: 2 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Cholesterol: 27 mg, Protein: 2 g

Light up your house safely for the holidays (NC) Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to make your list, check it twice, and get your home in the holiday spirit.

Take advantage of the milder temperatures right now to get your holiday lights up â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and to get it done safely, consider these tips from Hydro One: â&#x20AC;˘ Always use Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approved lights, cords, plugs and sockets that are properly marked for outdoor or indoor use. â&#x20AC;˘ Do not overload circuits. Have no more than 1,400 watts on a circuit. If other lights in the house dim when the holiday lighting is turned on or the plug is very hot after unplugging it, your circuit is overloaded. To figure out a circuitâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s load,

multiply the number of bulbs by the watts per bulb, and add any lamps, appliances or other equipment on the same circuit. â&#x20AC;˘ Before you put light strings on a shrub, tree or your house, check for breaks or signs of insulation deterioration.

Frayed cords or loose connections indicate that the wiring is poor.

Replace any defective sets. â&#x20AC;˘ Never install lights with the power on. Test lights first, then unplug to install. â&#x20AC;˘ Keep electrical connections off the ground.

Use eave clips or insulated staples, rather than nails and tacks, to hold light strings in place. â&#x20AC;˘ Keep wiring clear of metal parts such as

ornamental railings and drainpipes, to prevent any risk of shock from an electrical current. Do not leave any light sockets empty if you want sections in your light string unlit. This can create a fire hazard or could be fatal if someone touches the inside of the empty socket. Instead place a burned-out bulb in the socket. This will not affect the other lights on the string.

In addition to safety, why not save energy as well this holiday season? Make the switch to light emitting diode (LED) lights and enjoy significant energy and cost savings. According to Natural Resources Canada, LEDs use 80% less energy than their incandescent counter-

parts, so now is the time to upgrade your old strings.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still not sure, consider this: incandescent bulbs waste a lot of energy - 90 per cent of the energy they consume is used to heat the bulb, while only 10 per cent is used for lighting. LEDs, by contrast, directly convert electricity to light without the use of a filament or glass bulb, resulting in less energy loss through heat.

LED light strings also last up to 50,000 hours and up to 10 times longer than incandescent light strings. And because they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have moving parts, filaments or glass, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re much more durable and shock-resistant than other light strings.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; still a top pick for holiday flicks Holiday films hold a special place in many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearts, and perhaps no holiday movie of the last 30 years has resonated as much as â&#x20AC;&#x153;National Lampoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Vacation.â&#x20AC;?

The oft-quoted holiday favorite turned 25 years old in 2014, yet the film remains as popular as ever.

Fans of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? can no doubt quote their favorite lines from the film, but the following are a few tidbits that even the most ardent â&#x20AC;&#x153;Vacationâ&#x20AC;? fan might be unfamiliar with. â&#x20AC;˘ The movie is based on a story titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas 59,â&#x20AC;? which was written by the same man, John Hughes, who wrote and produced the film. The film pays homage to

this story when Clark Griswold is rummaging through the attic and finds a movie reel named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas 59.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ Frank Capra III worked as an assistant director on the film. In one scene of the film, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Wonderful Life,â&#x20AC;? which was directed by Frank Capra IIIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandfather, is on a television in the background. â&#x20AC;˘ Actress Mae Questrel (Aunt Bethany) provided the voices for Betty Boop and Olive Oyl in the 1930s. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? would be her final film. â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? featured a handful of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saturday Night Liveâ&#x20AC;? alumni. In addition to the filmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s star, Chevy Chase, SNL alums Randy Quaid, Julia LouisDreyfus and Brian Doyle-

Murray appeared in the film. â&#x20AC;˘ The role of Cousin Rocky had no lines in the film. â&#x20AC;˘ In the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lampoonâ&#x20AC;? films that preceded â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacation,â&#x20AC;?

Rusty was the older child of the Griswold clan. However, he is the younger sibling in this film. â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? marked the directorial debut for Jeremiah Chechik, who went on to direct â&#x20AC;&#x153;Benny & Joonâ&#x20AC;? and 1998â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Avengers.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘ The movie had a large budget ($27 million) for a comedy with no special effects. â&#x20AC;˘ Surprisingly, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? had its own sequel that few are familiar with. The made-for-television

â&#x20AC;&#x153;National Lampoonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Vacation 2: Cousin Eddieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island Adventureâ&#x20AC;? was released in 2003. â&#x20AC;˘ Cousin Eddieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion style, in particular the sweater/Dickie combination, was the brainchild of actor Randy Quaidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife. â&#x20AC;˘ No part of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? takes place on Christmas Day. The film culminates with the antics that take place at the Griswold home on December 24. â&#x20AC;˘ Brian Doyle-Murray, who played Frank Shirley, is the brother of another famous comic actor: Bill Murray. â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Christmas Vacationâ&#x20AC;? was the only movie in the series up until then that did not feature Lindsey Buckinghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s song, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Holiday Road.â&#x20AC;?

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Happy Holidays!

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19

Christmas Message from the Leader of the Opposition, Cam Broten Hello everyone, and Merry Christmas!

I love this time of year.

As the weather outside is increasingly cold, and as the world is at its darkest, we have this incredible season of warmth and light.

Warmth that comes as we gather with family and friends, to carry on long-held traditions, and even start some new ones.

And light that comes not only in colourful displays, but also through reďŹ&#x201A;ections on the past year, as we count our many blessings and look forward to what the New Year will bring.

I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to see my daughters, their eyes all lit up, as they take in all the wonder of Christ.

Their laughter as they play with their cousins.

Their enthusiasm in giving and receiving gifts from under the tree.

And their big smiles as they drink mugs

of hot chocolate after tobogganing outside.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking forward to gathering with family and friends, to enjoy traditional Norwegian food.

And Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also looking forward to a few days away from the normal routine, to break out my cross-country skis and enjoy the scenery of this beautiful province.

For many of us, this is also a time to celebrate the Christmas story â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a story of a baby, Jesus Christ, born in a stable, and rushed off to another country, as his family sought refuge from violence and tyranny.

Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s message was one of love, grace and peace.

A message that urges us to look out for one another, comfort those who suffer, feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, and give hope to the vulnerable.

In so many ways, those are Saskatchewan

values â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the kind of values that motivate me as a leader to do everything I can to ensure that all people in our province are doing well, and that all of us can get ahead and achieve our dreams for our children.

In this season, we also think of all those whose lives were overturned this year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; through illness or loss of work; through the death of loved ones; through massive forest ďŹ res in Northern Saskatchewan; natural disasters and acts of violence around the world; and war in places like Iraq, Syria and Ukraine.

As we sing carols calling for peace on earth, joy to all the world, and the end of oppression and sorrow, we join with all those who yearn for a much brighter 2016.

Whatever meaning this holiday season has for you, and however

Five gift ideas for mom this holiday season (NC) The holidays are upon us, and traditionally that means hours of shopping to get the best gifts for our loved ones.

Finding the right present for mom can be difficult.

The typical scarf or mug can feel impersonal for such a special figure in your life. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re unsure of what to buy or are looking for something unique, here are five meaningful ideas that are perfect for nearly any mother: 1. Window shop together: Invite Mom

for lunch and some window shopping at a place and time thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not too crowded. Watch closely to see what she likes, you can sneak back and pick it up later.

2. An afternoon of quality time: Take her out to a play, movie or concert. Even invite an old friend of hers to join for lunch or coffee.

3. Tea for two: If Mom lives far away, you can still invite her for tea. Mail her an invitation with the date, time

and package of her favourite tea. When the tea is brewed give her a phone call.

4. Give in her honour: Give a charitable gift in your motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name, picking something that reflects her interests and helps a cause she cares about. Visit World Vision Gifts online for some great ideas.

5. Gather memories: Write Mom a letter sharing some of the specific ways she has enriched your life.

you celebrate it, I hope itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great one for you.

On behalf of my wife, Ruth, our daughters, Ingrid, Clara and Gudrun, and all New Democrat MLAs â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I wish you a Merry Christmas; holidays that are full of joy; and a New Year that is happy, peaceful and prosperous.

May you and yours revel in the splendor of the season.

R.M. of Biggar #347 Council and staff 306-948-2422

Tidings of Comfort & Joy Wishing you a warm and cozy Christmas filled with family, friends and all the comforts of home.

We thank you for giving us such a warm welcome in the community.

Happy Holidays!

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Almost Homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Care Home 114 - 4th Ave. W., Biggar Management, staff & residents

Sending Our Best at the Holidays Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hoping your holiday delivers a bundle of joy and good cheer.

Merry Christmas!

Parrish & Heimbecker Limited Hanover Junction Biggar, Sask. www.parrishandheimbecker.com

306-948-1990 Our best wishes for a holiday filled with good cheer, happiness, love and contentment.

Thank you for your continued support!

Staff and Families of

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

Serving Biggar & area for over 40 years!

Chicoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Autoworks Richard Livingston

306-948-5077

6OJUZ 4, t www.northwestterminal.com

20 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

... 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!

Angieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hair Salon & Barber Shop Angie, Sherry, Tammy, Shelyna, Kaydre, Kendra 219 Main St., Biggar â&#x20AC;˘ 306-948-3696

Have A HAPPY !

Y A D I L HO

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Christmas Message from the Lieutenant Governor Vaughn Schofield In 1914, the world was at war.

Trench warfare created very difficult circumstances, particularly in the cold of winter.

But on that Christmas Eve, something remarkable happened.

A Christmas truce was called, and the soldiers on both sides laid down their weapons. They ventured out of their trenches and even exchanged modest gifts.

That night, when the British soldiers began to sing â&#x20AC;&#x153;O Come All Ye Faithful,â&#x20AC;? the Germans joined in, singing the same hymn to the Latin words â&#x20AC;&#x153;Adeste Fideles.â&#x20AC;?

For me, this is the true message of Christmas.

No matter what our circumstances, there is reason for hope and for gratitude. This Christmas, I am grateful for the Canadian men and women in uniform.

I wish to thank the

Canadian Armed Forces, our police officers, firefighters, and paramedics, for the sacrifices they make to serve.

I am fortunate to take part in hundreds of events each year across Saskatchewan. This is a constant reminder to me of our greatest strength â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our innovative, compassionate, and generous people. I am grateful to everyone who gives their time to

provide leadership to local organizations, and to support community events and initiatives.

Truly, you are what makes our province and our nation great.

As you celebrate this special season with your family and friends, I wish you good health and much happiness throughout the coming year!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see you next year!

REBEL LANDSCAPING Ed Kolenosky and family

306-948-2879 or 306-948-7207 Professional Grade Aroma & Colour Therapy Products t $PMPVS &OFSHZ ÉĽ FSBQZ t $IBLSB )FBMJOH t "OUJ BHJOH GBDJBM .BTTBHF In summer of t #JPQVMTBS %JBHOPTJT 2015, public officials t *OEFQFOEFOU %JTUSJCVUPS GPS :PVOH in our province of Saskatchewan issued a -JWJOH &TTFOUJBM 0JMT decree: that all affected Janet Moon, Candice Moon, people leave their homes and in mass exodus, Colour Therapists travel to places of refuge where they could be safe For Information and Appointmentsâ&#x20AC;Ś and accounted for.

306-948-7682 or 306-948-7128 They were escaping blazing forest fires of epic proportions. It was the largest evacuation in Saskatchewan history.

Thousands of people were on the move, all of them in uncertain circumstances, not knowing how quickly they would return home.

For a few young women, these circumstances had an blessings of added dimension of the season uncertainty. They were in the late stages of Wishing you and your family, pregnancy. These young all the gifts of this magical time of year. women were living as For your friendship and support, we are deeply grateful displaced persons far and look forward to serving you in the year ahead. from home, without the supplies they had gathered for their new baby. But thankfully for all concerned, healthy

Christmas Message from Premier Brad Wall

MOON LIGHT THERAPY

love peace joy

Merry Christmas!

Grondin Funeral Services Ltd. 306-948-2669

babies were delivered in hospitals close by with medical staff to give assistance.

We are privileged to live in a province where people come together.

That can be difficult when stress levels are high.

And so, I salute the evacuees, the firefighters, the troops, the Red Cross, and the local officials, the mayors and chiefs. Those who shared money, food and supplies, and those who prayed for an ending to this situation. All rose to the occasion.

Two thousand years ago, a public official named Caesar Augustus issued a decree that all people needed to be accounted for. It affected the entire Roman world.

Everyone needed to be registered. Many people were on the move, with primitive travel arrangements, not knowing how long this would take. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sure

for some young women, this circumstance had an added dimension of uncertainty. Like being in the late stages of pregnancy.

For one of these young women, the time came to have her baby, her first.

Not in a local hospital along the way, not even in a clean, comfortable Holiday Inn, but in a stable, with precious few amenities. Her only assistant, a most likely very, very nervous husband, with perhaps some curious animals looking on.

She didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have much for supplies, either. All she had were a few strips of cloth to wrap him in.

And all she could lay him in was not a cradle made by her carpenter husband, but a simple, dirty manger.

Crude surroundings for a King. His first visitors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; an adoring group in from the fields smelling strongly of sheep. They were alerted by a type

of atmospheric media unlike any we could imagine.

All rose to the occasion.

This Christmas, we celebrate the arrival of that very special baby boy. The Divinest Heart that ever walked the earth was born on that dayâ&#x20AC;? as it has been said (Leigh Hunt). His name is Jesus, the essence of hope and peace and the ultimate example of selfsacrifice for love.

So from me and my wife Tami, and our family, and on behalf of my colleagues in the Government of Saskatchewan: â&#x20AC;&#x153;May you have the gladness of Christmas which is hope; The spirit of Christmas which is peace; The heart of Christmas which is love.â&#x20AC;? (Ada V. Hendricks) And may you spread joy to others who need it most. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 21

Happy Holidays!

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

Welcome The Season!

There may be a chill in the air at the holiday season, But we’re filled 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

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

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 s 306-948-5600

www.louisdreyfus.ca

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

22 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Merry Christmas!

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Transporting holiday gifts

Jolly.

Happy.

Magical.

Christmas has always meant reflecting upon one’s blessings.

Here’s hoping the holiday season brings all of your wishes to life!

Busse Law Professional Corporation

As families spread out across the country and even across the globe, the holidays can become a little more difficult to navigate. According to AAA, a federation of motor clubs throughout the United States, roughly 90 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more for year-end holidays.

Families that are spread out must decide where to spend the holidays together. But in some cases, families can’t all be together, so celebrations must be handled remotely and gifts shipped to waiting recipients.

Shopping for gifts may have taken some time, but now you will have to figure out how to get those gifts where they need to go. The following are some pointers for holiday celebrants who are driving, flying, taking a bus, or shipping gifts.

Shipping dates If the goal is to purchase and ship gifts near and far, starting early has its advantages. Thousands upon thousands of cards and packages are shipped each day during the holiday season.

In 2013, shipping giant UPS projected 132 million deliveries during the last week before Christmas, and actual figures exceeded those expectations.

Many shipping services will get packages to recipients on time, but customers can help them along by sending them several weeks before the holidays. Shipping later in the season may incur additional fees for priority shipping. Always check sellers’ “purchase by” dates to ensure items will arrive on time.

Items that will be shipped internationally should include a detailed description as well as the value of the package.

Presents under a certain value may be duty-free or tax-exempt. Check with customs to get a better idea of the shipping regulations.

Plane ride Airlines have specific regulations in place regarding which items can and cannot be brought on planes, at least inside of the cabin.

Thanks to increased security measures, restrictions are greater than they once were.

Transportation Security Administration officers may have to inspect items for safety purposes. It may be better to leave gifts unwrapped and then wrap them after the flight to avoid hassles during the screening process. Liquids, including foods, may need to be put in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces.

Consider shipping delicate items ahead of time if you are concerned about breakage.

Packing the car If a holiday road trip is in your future, space constraints may require you to be a little creative when packing the car.

Shop for smaller gifts, including gift cards, which are easier to transport. Advise family and friends that you will have limited space so they should not go overboard with regard to gifts given to you in return.

Heed safety precautions and do not obscure driver visibility in the car by stacking presents too high. Also, secure boxes and packages in the car so they do not slide or move around. Anything that is not secured can become airborne in the event of a collision, increasing the risk for injury. Items placed on roof racks should be tightly secured so they don’t fall off and present a hazard.

Those who will be traveling for the holidays should plan how to transport any gifts they will be bringing along long before the day comes to hit the road.

Teena, Heather, Diane, Larry and Stuart 306-948-3346

Learn how to pack or ship gifts safely to minimize inconveniences and ensure they arrive on time.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 23

Happy Holidays!

Gift ideas for avid readers Gift giving is made easier when shoppers are in tune with their loved ones’ interests. Knowing a friend’s or relative’s likes and dislikes can provide a starting point as you begin your holiday shopping.

Reading is one interest or hobby that has never gone out of style. People who enjoy reading tend to devour book after book and are always eager for the next installment from their favorite authors. Books and other reading materials can make perfect gifts for anyone with a love for literature.

First edition texts Collectors very often are interested in the first edition or first printing of classic books. Publishers may offer only a limited number of books in a first edition or first

printing, and such editions tend to be rare.

A first edition of a favorite book can make a cherished gift. These books often can be identified by a unique numbering system or even by the words “first edition” or “first printing” on the copyright page.

Work with a reputable bookshop or dealer to find expensive and rare prints.

Digital reading device Some book purists stand by their decisions to only read paper copies of their favorite books, feeling there’s something special or more enjoyable about holding a hardcover or paperback in one’s hands and making progress through paper pages.

Others are enamored with the convenience and portability of having an

entire library saved on a digital device. E-readers come in different sizes and offerings from various manufacturers. The Kindle® from Amazon and Nook® from Barnes & Noble are two of the more popular standalone reading tablets.

E-reader apps also are available through Apple and Amazon to work on various mobile devices.

A tablet can be a welcome gift, especially for a reader who appreciates on-demand reading material.

Protective case Help readers protect their tablets with protective cases. These run the gamut from the utilitarian to the decorative.

Some tablet cases are designed to look like books themselves, with a soft interior cushion for the e-reader and a hard

shell to keep it safe.

Book accessories Readers need their own collections of accessories that cater to their love of the written word. Look for clocks made out of literary volumes, lamps that look like a stacked book collection or framed photos of favorite book covers. Some publishers offer printed works reissued in decorative covers to make the books an eye-catching addition to any home’s décor.

Someone who lends out favorite works may like a personalized library embosser, which will imprint a book page with the name of the person loaning out his or her collection of books.

Book tote Whether they are carrying books back to the library or traveling with an e-reader in tow, avid readers might appreciate a functional tote bag.

Order pre-printed literary tote bags or customize a tote based on the tastes of the gift’s recipient. It even can feature photographs or the jacket of a favorite book.

When gifting readers, there are many ideas that can make welcome presents.

Have A Jolly Holiday Wishing all of you a most Merry Christmas, and Best Wishes for the New Year.

PRAIRIE BRANCHES ~ Board, Management, Staff and Participants

iWish You a Merry Christmas 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 • ELECTONICS • APPLIANCES • APPLE PRODUCTS • COMPUTERS & COMPUTER REPAIR • SASKTEL CELLULAR & HIGHSPEED • SHAW • SECURITY SYSTEMS • PADERNO • KEURIG Larry, Sandy, Tracey, Brock, Floyd, Tracy, Larysa, Nathan 216 MAIN ST., BIGGAR • 306-948-2266

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

From Our Hearth To Yours

Books and other literary-themed gifts can be ideal for avid readers.

When it comes to Christmas, we’ve got you covered -- with our warm wishes and heartfelt thanks.

24 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2015

Merry Christmas!

Holiday traditions from around the world Thank You for choosing RBC Happy Holidays to our clients, neighbours and friends at this festive occasion.

Royal Bank ~ Troy, Sue, Naty, Destiny and staff ~

(NC) December is a time when meaningful holidays are celebrated around the world—and that usually means an occasion for gift giving.

Two of the world’s oldest religions—Christianity and Judaism—celebrate major holy days in December, Christmas and Hanukkah. In recent years, they have been joined by the secular Kwanzaa, a celebration of African culture and family values.

Not surprisingly, how you celebrate and what kind of gifts you choose depend largely on your family and where you live. Ethiopian Christians use the old Julian calendar and celebrate Christ-

mas on January 7 when mass can start as early as 4 a.m. and people attend dressed in white.

In the Netherlands, children open their Christmas presents on December 5, Sinterklaas, named after Saint Nicholas, the European giftgiving precursor to North America’s Santa Claus.

Red bracelets are a popular Christmas gift for

babies in Ecuador, while children in the Philippines receive money in red envelopes. It’s a Christmas holiday tradition in Guatemala for people to build a massive heap of trash, place an effigy of the devil on top and set it ablaze. In Finland, families take saunas on Christmas Eve while waiting for Saint Nick.

Gift giving has only relatively recently become a part of the eight-day, mid-December Hanukkah celebration, while Kwanzaa’s weeklong festival ends with present exchanges—hand-made preferred.

No matter how you celebrate, a meaningful gift that provides hope is a wonderful way to partake in the season’s spirit.

Cookies and milk for Santa Leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus is a Christmas Eve tradition.

Children regularly place a dish of cookies and a glass of milk by the tree on Christmas Eve so that Santa has enough energy to complete all of his gift-giving before kids wake up on Christmas morning. The tradition of leaving cookies out on Christmas Eve may

trace its origins to Saint Nicholas. On the feast of St. Nicholas on December 6, children would leave food and drink for the saint and any attendants. The treats would be exchanged for gifts.

While that’s one theory behind the tradition, others think it is linked to the history of the Christmas tree and the edible decorations that adorn

it. Santa would snack on the ornaments. Even after edible decorations gave way to inedible ornaments, the tradition of leaving a snack for Santa remained. Whatever the origins behind the tradition, millions of children dutifully leave milk and cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve.

There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays!

HOLIDAY HOURS Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 26 Dec. 27 Dec. 28 Dec. 29 Dec. 30 Dec. 31 Jan. 1 Jan. 2 Jan. 3 Jan. 4

6 am - 8 pm CLOSED 8 am - 8 pm 8 am - 10 pm 7 am - 10 pm 7 am - 10 pm 7 am - 10 pm 7 am - 8 pm CLOSED 7 am - 9 pm 7 am - 10 pm Regular Hours 6 am - 10 pm

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!

WITH THE VERY BEST OF WISHES FROM OUR HOME T O YOURS

Sunshine Family Care Home

Shannon de Vries, Residents and Staff

306-948-3644