issue 9

by Kevin Brautigamof The IndependentIf you think your Mom is the best, or you know of a special woman in your life, you have until April 11 to nominate her for Biggar Community Connections annual Mother of the Year celebrations this May 1.

The Mother of the Year Tea, to be held at the Biggar Community Hall, brings together women nominated from their respective communities - not necessarily mothers - all to raise needed funds for the Biggar Community Connections. It not only is a chance to treat those special women, but a great chance to treat yourself to an afternoon of pampering, good company, and entertainment.

Nominations for Biggar’s Mother of the Year are currently being sought. Nearby communities will be holding nominations for their Mother of the Year, also to be honoured at the

Nominations being sought for Mother of the Year celebration

tea in Biggar.If you know someone

who deserves a bit of pampering, send in a small explanation -- about 150 words -- to the Biggar Community Connections, Box 1690, 102 Sixth Avenue East, or to The Biggar Independent, Box 40, 102 Third Avenue West. Deadline for nominations is noon, April 11, with voting to take place throughout the month of April.

Those special ladies will be introduced to the community at 2 p.m. on May 1 at the Biggar Community Hall.

North West Terminal (NWT) has announced a $0.22 per share dividend to shareholders following what they call a “successful year in 2011-12.”

The Board of Directors

NWT announces dividendf o r N W T m a d e t h e announcement February 10.

NWT current ly has 3,277,915 outstanding Class A and B shares. In addition to the $0.22 per share dividend to all Class A and B shareholders, Class A shareholders will also receive a $0.33 per share preferential dividend.

Overa l l , a t o ta l o f $ 7 3 5 , 9 9 1 . 3 0 w i l l b e r e t u r n e d b a c k t o shareholders.

NWT’s original shares were issued at a price of $3.33 per share in 1995. The company i ssued additional shares in 2000 at $3.67 per share, and in 2007 at $5.63 per share. February 9, 2012 was set as the date of record for all holders of Class A and B shares. Dividend cheques are expected to be mailed out in the fi rst two weeks of March 2012.

“We are very pleased to be able to pay a dividend to the shareholder again this year,” says NWT president, Jim Skinner. “The company is coming off a successful year for both its grain handling and biofuels operations. As I stated in the past, it is the board’s philosophy that we continue paying shareholders regular

dividends when profits allow.”

Skinner farms near

Unity.North West Terminal is

an independent, farmer-

s h a r e h o l d e r o w n e d company headquartered near Unity.

The 2012 Crop Insurance Program will include an Unseeded Acreage Benefit of up to $100 per eligible acre, as well as another year of record funding and record coverage levels.

“We have worked closely with the Province of Saskatchewan to expand Crop Insurance coverage for unseedable acres,” said Yorkton-Melville MP Garry Breitkreuz, on behalf of federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. “With stronger and broader coverage, Crop Insurance is now better positioned to help producers manage the risk of excess moisture and flooding. We encourage producers to enrol in Crop Insurance so they are best positioned for the coming growing season.”

“We are working to improve the Crop Insurance program for producers by providing record funding, record coverage levels, an improved Unseeded Acreage Benefi t and numerous other program enhancements,” Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. “With this year’s program improvements, as well as those we have made over

Record coverage for 2012 Crop Insurance Programthe previous four years, I encourage all producers to consider enrolling in Crop Insurance in 2012.”

The 2012 Provincial Crop Insurance budget is at a record high of $177 million. Coverage levels are increasing to a record high $174 per acre, on average. This is nearly double the average coverage level offered to producers under the previous government in 2007. Since 2008, Crop Insurance has introduced the fi ve largest budgets and highest coverage levels in the program’s history.

New in 2012, producers will have the option to supplement the Unseeded Acreage Benefi t of $70 per eligible acre by purchasing either $15 or $30 per acre in additional coverage. In addition, the Unseeded Acreage Benefi t calculation has also been simplifi ed.

Crop Insurance will now also provide coverage to commercial fruit growers for the replacement of Saskatoon bushes, dwarf sour cherry and haskap fruit trees.

Yield cushioning is also being extended to include forage crops. This feature

l imits the impact of consecutive poor growing seasons, such as excess moisture or drought, on a producer’s coverage level.

In 2012 establishment benefit values will also increase from $20 to $25 per acre for oats, canary seed, fall rye, spring rye and triticale.

Overall, this year’s Crop Insurance Program will provide more options and improved coverage for producers. As a result, there will be no AgriRecovery program for weather-related disasters in 2012.

“The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is pleased Crop Insurance continues to make program improvements,” SARM President David Marit said. “The increased coverage, e n h a n c e d U n s e e d e d Acreage Benefi t and other improvements will help producers manage their risk.”

“ S a s k a t ch e wa n o a t growers will benefit from these continued program improvements, including increased coverage and establishment benefi t values,

…see Coverage, cont. pg

Winter solitude . . . North of Biggar, Mother Nature can put on a show when she wants to. The ominous sky

may be a portent of one fi nal blast of winter. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

‘Cake Connoisseur . . . Griffi n Lehnert fl ips a pancake February 21 at the Biggar New Horizons as St. Paul’s Anglican Church held their annual Shrove Tuesday supper. The day precedes Ash Wednesday, and is a day of feasting and celebration. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

12025MS01

Your safety is our priority.

As the busy construction season and spring thaw approaches, safety on the job site and in communities around the province remains SaskEnergy’s top priority. We’re investing more time and money in safety initiatives to meet new challenges, while continuously improving safety practises and procedures.

With your support, SaskEnergy is …

INVESTING IN SAFETY

We’ve increased safety spending to $79 million for 2012 to elevate the safety related system upgrading for our 80,000 km pipeline system.

We want to keep you informed of our efforts and the actions you can take to assist with keeping our communities safe.

Whether buildings are being constructed, renovated or taken down, or you are planning to excavate, our team uses tools and techniques before work begins to make job sites safer. For example, a new building demolition process of deactivating service lines at a demolition site is now in place.

WORKING WITH YOU, FOR YOU

SaskEnergy works closely with industry associations, natural gas utilities across Canada and provincial regulatory bodies to maintain best practises for safety. We appreciate feedback from our customers and key stakeholders as well.

We have more than 600 technicians and tradespeople, construction workers, engineers, technologists, and customer service employees working in communities across the province to deliver safe and reliable natural gas service.

Each year, our highly-trained people manage over 100,000 work orders of proactive safety related activities while also responding 24/7 – at no charge – to 24,000 calls from homes and businesses to provide safety checks and peace of mind for our customers.

The most vital element of SaskEnergy’s safety initiatives is YOU!

Make sure you know where underground lines are before you dig, by contacting Sask1st Call on-line at www.sask1stcall.com or call 1-866-828-4888.

When planning a building demolition project, contact SaskEnergy at 1-888-7000-GAS (427).

Most importantly, if you smell natural gas, leave the area immediately and contact SaskEnergy at 1-888-7000-GAS (427).

Let’s stay safe by working together.

saskenergy.com

Energy and Resources Minister Bill Boyd left Sunday for a two-week resources investment mission to China and Australia.

Boyd and a small gov-ernment delegation head-ed to Beijing, Shandong, Melbourne and Adelaide, February 19 to March 3. The minister will promote business investment and market development op-portunities in Saskatch-ewan, with an emphasis

on uranium, potash and oil projects. He will also connect with major com-panies that already have investments in the prov-ince.

“ S a s k a t c h e -wan’s resource riches are in the i n t e r n a t i o n a l spotlight more than ever before and projects here have attracted considerable interest and capital from Asian and Australian

investors,” Boyd said. “Missions such as this one keep that momentum going and reinforce the advantages of doing busi-

ness in our ‘resource-full’ province with existing and potential investors and customers.

“This mission is also very timely, in that it follows closely on Prime Minister Harper’s re-cent mission to China

and the new deal he con-cluded that will allow Saskatchewan uranium sales to China. I expect our uranium resources and the energy opportu-nities they afford to be top of mind in a number of the meetings that I’ll have in Beijing.”

Pr ivate companies and government agen-cies that Boyd will meet with in China include the China Investment Cor-poration, the China Na-tional Nuclear Corpora-tion; Sinofert, Canpotex, the China Development Bank, the China National

Boyd leads resources investment mission to China and Australia

“Saskatchewan’s resource riches are in the international spotlight more than ever before . . .”

Offshore Oil Corporation, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade.

The minister will also sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on scien-tifi c and technical research coopera-

tion on uranium geology with the Beijing Research Institute of Uranium Geology, a research es-tablishment of the China National Nuclear Corpo-ration.

The Australian leg of the mission includes meet-ings with BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, interna-tional mining companies that are developing pot-ash and uranium projects in Saskatchewan. The minister will tour BHP Billiton’s large Olympic Dam mine which pro-duces copper and gold in addition to uranium.

While in Adelaide, Boyd will also meet with South Australia’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Tom Koutsanto-nis. Saskatchewan has had a MOU in place with that Australian state for the past three years, cov-ering technical exchanges of geoscience and regula-tory information between the two jurisdictions.

“This information-shar-ing relationship with South Australia has been very valuable to our gov-ernment and our mining industry,” Boyd said. “It’s added to our understand-ing of the nature of the rich deposits in our Atha-basca Basin, and that new knowledge is already being applied in mineral exploration up north.”

Boyd will be accompa-nied on the mission by four offi cials from Energy and Resources and Ex-ecutive Council Intergov-ernmental Affairs.

Cover the province with one phone call.

Place a blanket classifi ed ... for more information call

306-948-3344

This Week . . . Opinions ............................................................ 4Agriculture ...................................................... 8Classifieds ............................................... 14 - 16Business & Professional Directory ...........17 - 18

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3

the third page

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

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The regular meeting of Biggar Town Council was held February 7, at 7:15 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Attending the meeting were Mayor Ray Sadler, Aldermen Ron Arnold, Jim Besse, Don Cleaveley, Penny M c C a l l u m , E u g e n e M o t r u k , a n d K i r k Sherbino.

Council resolved that the General Accounts Paid in the amount of $123,458.23, and the General Accounts Payable in the amount of $30,610.02, be approved.

C o u n c i l r e s o l v e d that the Agreement to Purchase Land for Biggar Tire Centre to purchase 25-feet on the east side of Parcel D Plan 101970266, be approved and duly signed by the town’s official to execute the agreement.

Council resolved that the request from BCS 2000 to sponsor the yearbook in the amount of $50 be approved.

Council resolved that the following be transferred to reserves for 2011: General Reserve - Transit Van - $2,000.

Council resolved that a 2012 Dodge half ton be purchased from Dodge City Auto at a total cost of $28,361.50.

Council resolved that each Biggar Recreation Board member be given a $50 voucher to be used towards a season pass at one of the recreation facilities.

Council resolved that the invoice from Southwest Paving in the amount of $4,410 be approved for payment.

Council resolved that the quote from McBee Construction to build a circulation desk at the town library, in the

amount of $13,196.54 plus taxes, be accepted.

Council resolved that the invoices from Dorosh Painting and Contracting to paint the Biggar Community Hall interior dance area, in the amount of $2,950 plus GST, be authorized for payment.

Council resolved that the invoice totalling $7,100.10 from K and S Contracting to remove and replace 70-feet of interior wall at the Biggar Community Hall that was moisture damaged, be approved for payment.

Council resolved that Altus Geomatics be authorized to complete a subdivision in Parcel “B” Plan 98MW03012-3 SW 1/4 Section 5-36-14-3, and further that Altus Geomatics be authorized to submit and process the subdivision application to the Ministry of Municipal Af fa irs, Community Planning branch.

Council resolved that the Community Planning application fee of $350 be authorized for payment to the Minister of Finance.

Council resolved that the request from the Friends of the Lodge committee to waive the hall rental fee for the February 11, 2012 Valentine’s Day Dine and Dance fund raiser, be approved.• Meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m.

Council Minute highlights

Pancake Tuesday . . . Geoff Cooke, right, serves up pancakes at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church Shrove Tuesday supper at the Biggar New Horizons, February

21. The annual event is a tasty way of getting ready for Lent. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Squeeze box virtuoso . . . Alexander Sevastian hit the Biggar Majestic Theatre stage for the sixth concert of the Biggar Arts Council performance season, February 18. The accomplished musician wowed the audience with his playing. (Independent Photo by Daryl Hasein)

The NDP-sponsored bill named for Jimmy Wiebe gained momentum last Thursday as a legislative petition was launched in his hometown, along with a series of late-night tours of businesses to meet with workers who could be affected if the bill becomes law.

Wiebe’s best friend Aaron Nagy and his sister, Debi Paton, were joined in Yorkton by NDP labour critic David Forbes

Graveyard-shift petition launched by NDPwhere Nagy and Paton became the first to sign the legislative petition in support of Jimmy’s Law.

Forbes will present the petition during the spring sitting of the Legislative Assembly.

Throughout March and April, Nagy and Forbes will tour the province to visit late-night workers to see, fi rsthand, graveyard-shift working conditions and take stock of the number of workers working alone or in pairs. Forbes will also be consulting workers and stakeholders on the private member’s bill, which he introduced in December.

“I’m relieved to see the law we’ve asked for getting closer to reality,” said Nagy. “Jimmy’s Law can provide real protection for workers and the government should recognize that simple steps need to be taken to protect employees and their families from tragedy.”

Paton, supportive of Nagy’s efforts in getting Jimmy’s Law drafted, said that Nagy and the NDP “are taking a step forward for worker protection. You never move forward without taking a step.”

Nagy and Forbes began their tour by visiting a number of retail businesses in Yorkton during the late-night shift on Wednesday. They’ll continue with similar visits until April 28, the Day of Mourning for Workers Killed or Injured on the Job.

J immy’s Law i s a private member’s bill that would amend the Occupational Health and Safety Act. The changes would require employers to schedule a minimum of two employees for late night shifts or ensure that a worker is safe behind a locked door or barrier when working alone.

“Jimmy’s Law puts into regulation a basic safe-workplace practice,” said David Forbes, who is the

MLA for Saskatoon Centre. “We’re calling on the Sask Party government to get behind the NDP’s proposal to improve protections for working women and men better than we do today.”

Wiebe was shot twice and killed during a robbery while working the night shift at a Shell gas station in Yorkton in June, 2011. Jimmy’s Law, numbered Bill 601, could pass during the spring sitting of the Legislature.

as well as further enhancements to the U n s e e d e d A c r e a g e Benefit,” Saskatchewan O a t D e v e l o p m e n t Commission Chairman Dwayne Anderson said.

“We are pleased Crop Insurance continues to improve its programs to address the needs of

producers,” SaskCanola Chair Brett Halstead said. “Record coverage, improved unseeded acreage options and other program improvements will benefi t canola producers and our entire industry.”

“We welcome these Crop Insurance improvements, especially the introduction of yield cushioning for forage crops, which will benefit forage producers whose production is affected by extreme weather, such as excess moisture or drought,” Saskatchewan Forage Council President Aaron Ivey said.

T h e d e a d l i n e f o r customers to apply for, make changes to, or cancel their Crop Insurance contract is March 31, 2012. Detailed program and contract information is available at any Crop Insurance office, at saskcropinsurance.com or by calling 1-888-935-0000.

… Record Coverage, cont. from front page

4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

OpinionsMONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

Letter to the Editor

Phone: 306-948-3344 Fax: 306-948-2133 E-mail: [email protected]

COPYRIGHTThe 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 EDITORThe Biggar Independent invites the public to participate in its letters to the Editor section. All letters must be signed.We acknowledge the fi nancial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

the

Publications Mail Registrations No. 0008535Published by THE INDEPENDENT PRINTERS LTD. and issued every Monday at the offi ce of publication, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar, Saskatchewan, S0K 0M0Publishers - Margaret and Daryl HaseinEditor - Kevin BrautigamAdvertising Consultant - Urla TylerComposition - Delta Fay Cruickshank

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

www.biggarindependent.ca

Dear Editor:I applaud Justin

Trudeau in saying last week he’d “rather live in a separate Quebec then a Canada with a Harper government!” This statement went over most heads, even Rex Murphy’s.

but I, like many, knew exactly what he meant. remember when P.E. Trudeau once said; “Society must take every means to defend itself against the emergence of a parallel power . . .” It is

no secret anymore that Harper’s fascism is that parallel power.

Harper has a neo-liberal market agenda for corporate transnationals at the cost of beautiful geography, natural habitat, fresh-water lakes, rivers, and aquifers, seeing our lakes and rivers as a natural resource to be exploited. He has fl aunted his contempt and disrespect for the First Nations people with the expansion of the

tar sands, leaving a wake of toxic repercussions; insisted on draining the Teseko River (tributary of Chilko), which poisoned local water supplies along the Frazer; the Athabasca and its tributaries poisoned beyond comprehension, and the list is long. He backed out of Koyoto, cut funding to renewable energy, instead giving 1.4 billion to the gas and oil industry for ‘fracking’, and cut hundreds of Environment Canada

by Jason Sutherland and Trafford Crump, Expert Advisors, EvidenceNetwork.caDistributed by Troy Media, troymedia.com

Canada has over 70,000 hospital beds and spends more than $47 billion a year on hospital care, yet accessing these beds when they’re needed most remains an important public health concern. Patients regularly experience long emergency room waits and canceled surgeries as a result of the health system’s inability to make hospital beds readily available. U n d e r s t a n d a b l y , frustrations run high.

Changing the way health care is funded can be an important solution to this problem.

Many hospital beds are being used by patients who no longer require the specialized equipment or nursing care provided by a hospital. These patients are often approved for discharge by their doctor and are awaiting placement in a continuing care facility - either hospital-based rehabilitation, residential or home care. They remain hospitalized simply because there are no appropriate continuing care settings that can accommodate their medical and social needs.

Most of these patients don’t want to be in hospital, yet they use over 7,500 hospital beds each and every day in Canada - a stunningly ineffi cient use of hospital services that is unparalleled in other developed countries.Siloed funding models create perverse fi nancial incentives

In a recent report published by the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF), we target the complex underlying factors that have made effective solutions to Canada’s ‘hospital bed problem’ diffi cult to implement.

First, there is a disparate mix of stakeholders with different objectives, including publicly-funded physicians and hospitals, and a mix of publicly- and privately-funded continuing care providers. They all need to work together to empty the beds currently occupied by patients who no longer need to be in hospital, and to divert future unnecessary hospital-based care. This is a tall order when fi nancial incentives are not aligned among providers to achieve these fundamental goals.

Second, health care providers are funded in ‘silos’: one silo funds hospitals, one funds doctors, and still others

fund rehabilitative, residential and home care. These silos can create perverse fi nancial incentives that don’t optimize scarce health care dollars.

For example, hospitals are paid one lump sum to cover the care of all their patients, creating little incentive to discharge a less expensive patient and, in return, admit a new, expensive patient without any change in revenue.

In continuing care - with the exception of recent, and tentative, steps in Alberta and Ontario - providers are not remunerated based on the complexity of patients, an effect which makes it challenging for these providers to look beyond the additional costs of providing care to complex patients stuck in hospital beds.

Expanding acute hospital capacity is unappealing for multiple reasons. While this might resolve the problem temporarily, it fails to address the underlying problem of transitioning patients to continuing care. Few patients would want to live in a hospital setting. This is also the most expensive option that has been tried in the past with no success - except to increase hospital expenditures.

Expanding continuing care capacity is another option. However, the care and social needs of waiting patients are so varied that unmanaged expansion of continuing care, of the right kind, in the right amount, in the right geographic area could also prove unsuccessful over time.Financial incentives don’t undermine medicare

So what’s the solution?Research has shown

that fi nancial incentives have been effective at motivating changes in health care provider behaviour. To date, the use of fi nancial incentives has not been pursued in Canada, in part, because of its association with privatized health care. But cost effective methods that free hospital capacity, and don’t undermine Canada’s public health system, should be viewed positively, and as a step forward.

One potential solution is to change the way continuing care providers are funded and align their fi nancial incentives with those of hospitals. We should give continuing care providers the fi nancial tools

to strengthen care coordination with hospitals and to be fairly reimbursed for accepting the most complex patients.

A potential arrangement might take the form of a one-time, per-patient, payment to continuing care providers that accept patients who would otherwise remain waiting in hospitals.

Creating this incentive would accomplish two things. First, it would reward continuing care providers for ‘pulling’ patients to appropriate lower intensities of care. Second, it would free-up the current stock of hospital beds and is well worth the expenditures.

Clearly our current system undermines the provision of effective and safe care when

Canadians need it most. Creating necessary fi nancial incentives and investing in home-based care may be just what we need to improve hospital effi ciency, free-up hospital beds, reduce waitlists and improve patients’ experiences with the health care system.

Jason Sutherland is an expert advisor with EvidenceNetwork.ca and an Assistant Professor, and Trafford Crump, post doctoral fellow at the Centre for Health Services and Policy Research, University of British Columbia. They are the authors of Exploring Alternative Level of Care (ALC) and the Role of Funding Policies with the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF).

jobs.Harper’s contempt

for Canadians and democracy is evident again as he rams the CETA into law, allowing EU’s largest corporations to deregulate and privatize our water, schools, health care, social services, and to block future measures to combat climate change.

Harper’s mandate to introduce a “Police State’ format has already begun with many

RCMP raids on innocent Canadians, and we will see thousands more with the passing of Bill C-30.

He plans to destroy the small family farm, already evident to those who understand the implications of UPOV’91, an inclusion of the CETA. So with the toxicity of GMO in our food (which he has managed to keep off the labels), forty thousand tonnes of extremely

dangerous nuclear waste to be sunk into our pristine northern aquifers from ‘fracking’. The when we’re all dying like fl ies and our health care is gone . . . .

So Justin, I hope Quebec does go separate because survivors of Harper’s Reign of Terror will need somewhere to go.

My bag is packed.Ross Hingston,

Landis

Why we never seem to have enough hospital beds in Canada

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

12025KK0012024KK00

It’s amazing how pervasive food is. Every second commercial is for food. Every second TV episode takes place around a meal. In the city, you can’t go ten feet without seeing or smelling a restaurant. There are 20 foot high hamburgers up on billboards. I am acutely aware of food, and its omnipresence is astounding.

Adam Scott, The Monkey Chow Diaries,

June 2006

Food does seem to the centre of a large portion of our lives. We celebrate with food and we mourn with food. It seems every time we visit there is food around.

In my mother’s house whenever we had visitors we always had food around. And, there had to be enough of it so that no one would go home hungry. At family celebrations the food table was bountiful and then everyone would have a “midnight snack” before they went home or off to bed.

Those meals were home made but that doesn’t mean they were entirely healthy, albeit probably more healthy than the meals at fast food restaurants and the supersize portions.

And of course, we were taught to eat everything that was on our plate -- a habit that has

followed us in life. Thus, we are conditioned to clean up our plate which means we tend to overeat.

Researcher and author Brian Wansink calls this “mindless consumption”. We want to get our money’s worth and if we get more food then we will eat it. For example instead of ordering a large burger, fries and pop at your favourite burger joint try ordering a “small” meal -- burger, fries and pop. The difference in calories is about 500.

Some call this downsizing your portions but Wansink calls this “rightsizing” your food. Of course, fast food is higher in fat than a salad so it becomes a matter of choice. Researchers found that consumers who downsize their order will consume, on average, about 200 fewer calories.

Nutritionists often advise their clients to eat the way everyone did in the 60s with servings of all foods. The

portions were smaller yet it didn’t seem like you were hungry. A snack was often a fruit or if it was baking then again the portion size was smaller. I remember if the cookie recipe said it would yield 4 dozen cookies that is what you got. A teaspoon was a teaspoon.

There was hardly any snacking in the evening. If you did again it was a fruit or one cookie -- not a dozen. So maybe the nutritionists have a point.

There is a certain amount of psychology to this whole food thing. The plates are larger today so we tend to think we need to fi ll them up to get a full serving. Look at the size of those coffee mugs. If you fi ll one with hot chocolate you are getting more than your day’s worth of cocoa.

As Adam Scott says food is everywhere. It’s hard not to be seduced by it. We just have to remember that in this case bigger is not always better.

Check out theGalleries

section for more photos and videos

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There is moreThere is more to life than to life than

increasing its speed. increasing its speed.~ Gandhi~ Gandhi


Bards


by Bob MasonOf course Yours Truly

may be biased by making statements like this, but there is quite a bit to be said about poets.

Comparing them to greenhorn bagpipes players, I’m not exactly sure what is said, but I’m sure that it is quite a bit!

Poets, as a rule, don’t build things or grow gardens or any of that basic stuff, and as an ex-builder-gardener, YT can sure appreciate the contributions of buildings and gardens out here. However, poets aren’t very far behind!

It is not so much what they do, as it is the fact they fi ll in that part of life’s day when we aren’t doing things why they become so necessary - “Book of verses underneath the bough, eh?”

However, no one told Mr. Homer, or those early Greek guys, society didn’t have to have poetry to get by, and they kept on writing them anyway (by the thousands!), and

over the years many other misinformed folks, have penned their verses all the way from Alpha to Omega.

So, just to fi nd out how needful society is of them, YT looked in some of the anthologies above his desk and in this nice warm room (the product of builders) and having downed dinner (the product of gardeners) he started to scrawl this piece! Right at the start of that book, and in the preface (just opposite page xxxviii), it sez: “Poetry is one of the oldest and most important branches of literature (pretty important stuff, eh?) From earliest times people have enjoyed it, as they worked and played.

It has won great honour and respect in every civilization.”

Every civilization! it seems a little odd though, that in our so called “bilingual” Canadian “civilization”, most of that big book’s 1,200 pages are printed in English. Comprende Vous?

William Henry Drummond, one of our most famous poets, didn’t even make an exception:

Leetle Batese, now don’t forget,

We rader you stay a small boy yet,

So chase de chicken, an’ mak dem scare

An’ do what you want wit your ol’ Granpere,

For when you beeg fella, he won’t be der

Leetle Bateese!Of course YT has his

own, if twisted, ideas and observations of things, and fi nds in his old encyclopedia that poets have been around for a long time, and that many Royal Courts used to have “Jesters” who quoted small homemade verses

and made wisecracks to entertain the aristocratic “Hangers-on”. (Hey, what the heck am I doing here, eh?)

According to my old worn-out deck of cards, they later changed the Court Jesters name to “Jack”, where he always follows the Queen! (Things haven’t changed much over the years, eh?)

Regardless of all the technologic stuff invented over the last few years, real down-to-earth “life” isn’t much different than it used to be. Even Homer, thousands of yours ago, mentioned quite a few things that we still do.

Edward Fitzgerald in his translation of the “Rubaiyat of Omar Khanyyam” mentions the following sentiments:

“A loaf of bread, a jug of wine and thou

Beside me, singing in the wilderness

Ah, wilderness is paradise now!”

Close your eyes and picture this as only yesterday, eh?

A fellow is apt to wonder why that anthology only goes back in time to the A.D. 1350’s or so. But in explanation, that big book sez that old poems and songs written before that time can’t be understood anyway without some translation.

Example:“Awe bleteth after lombLhouth after calve cu,Bulluc sterteth, Buck

verteth

Murie sing cuccuCuccu, cuccu

No swik never nu!”Get it? Plain old English

(OE)!Actually when some

of those old verses are translated they show a lot of the same sentiments that we have today!

When Geoffrey Chaucer wrote those pages and long pages of the “Canterbury Tales”, I’ll bet that the people sitting around that tavern table were the A.D. 1370 edition of our modern day “Coffee Row”! A gathering of folks who want to be in the company of real people, instead of with our, dare I say “newfangled?” entertainment machines, and B.S. (whatever that means!) with some of the local knights and squires.

Having been on coffee row a few times myself, YT can sure vouch that some of the stories there are just as colourful and entertaining, too.

Some of Chaucers “Tales” almost seem that we heard them yesterday! Oh, oh? That anthology is over 1,200 pages long and we haven’t gotten past page 100 yet. There must have been quite a few verses scribbled in the last few hundred years!

Personally, Yours Truly goes for a lot of the Ribald stuff because it makes him feel big and tough. . .

“A bunch of the boys were whooping it up in the malamute saloon

And the kid who handled the music box,

was playing a jigtime tune.

Back of the bar, in a solo game, sat Dangerous Dan McGrew.”

But when it comes to other matters, where was that Bill Shakespeare guy when Yours Truly was wooing Phyllis, eh?

There may be better love poems written than his, but if there are, YT has never found them yet!

When, in disgrace with fortune and mens eyesI, all alone, beeweep my

outcast state.And trouble deaf

Heaven with my bootless cries,

And look upon mysself, and curse my fate,

Wishing me like to one more rich in hope, Featured like him,

like him with friends possessed.

Desiring this man’s art and that man’s scopeWith what I most enjoy

contented leastYet in those thoughts,

myself almost despisingHaply I think of thee - and then my state,Like to the Lark at

break of day arisingFrom sullen earth,

sings hymns at Heaven’s gate!

For thy sweet love remembered, such

wealth bringsThat then I scorn to

change my state with kings!”

There are still over a thousand pages of that big book left. But being a written record of “man’s” time, it has to take second place with an even more important Book!

Sometimes, I think, we need them both!

12025JJ00

For the past 35 years, the Saskatchewan Junior Citizen program has been recognizing the outstanding youth of Saskatchewan.

This year four deserving youth, aged between 8 and 18 years old, will receive $3000 bursaries to help pay for their future post-secondary education.

Someone you nominate could be one of them.

Visit www.swna.com for more information and nomination forms or call Nicole Nater at 1-800-661-7962

Nomination closes April 30, 2012.

The Independent is now available on

the internetbiggarindependent.ca

Call 948-3344 to subscribe!


New HorizonsActivities


The members of the New Horizons are enjoy-ing the beautiful winter weather. We are all ap-preciating the extended day light hours.

Wednesday evening Kaiser scores for Febru-ary 1 were Ken Pearce fi rst, Pat Turner second, Mike Plysuik third and Reg Turner fourth. Feb. 8 scores were fi rst Ken Pearce, second Helen Kanz, third Ron Arnold and 4th Joyce Colbert.

Shuffl eboard was played on Feb. 2 with fi rst place going to Bernard Zim-mer and Mildred Henne, second place Marlene Sinclair and Ed Smith.

Don and Marlene Sin-clair were the hosts and also provided the lunch.

Cribbage scores of Feb. 3 were Pat Turner in fi rst place, Myrtle Althouse second place and Rich-ard Boisvert third place. Joanne Kral was the host for the afternoon with Hazel Watson providing the lunch.

Kaiser club scores for Feb. 6 were first Reg Turner, second Phyllis Martin, third Mildred Henne, fourth Joyce Col-bert and Mike Plysuik. Highest scoring game was Joyce Colbert and Reg Turner.

Bowling scores for Feb. 9 were June Hoppe LHS 177 & LHT 492 and Jack Eckart MHS 218 and Geoff Cooke MHT 597.

Carpet bowling scores for Feb. 7 were fi rst place Ag Small, Pat Turner, Aileen Smith, Ed Smith

and Florence Johnson. Second place Barb Sw-yryda, Dinah Kegler, Mil-dred Henne and Marie Roesch. Scores for Feb. 14 were first place Ai-leen Smith, Agnes Small and Alma Redlich, sec-ond place June Hoppe, Marie Roesch, Blanche Borchardt and Florence Johnson.

The card party on Feb. 10 had Barb Swyryda coming in fi rst place play-ing crib and Pat Turner coming in second place. Kaiser winners were fi rst Myrtle Althouse and Reg Turner second place. Hosts for the afternoon were Pat Turner and Joanne Kral.

Bingo was played on Feb. 9 with 15 players.

Pat Turner was the half-and-half winner and Laura Campbell won the blackout.

February birthday pot-luck was held on Feb. 13 with 41 in attendance. Don Sinclair was the MC for the afternoon. Doro-thy Wirachowsky pro-vided the birthday cake and Myrtle Althouse sold half-and-half tickets with Doris Gartner winning the money. At 1p.m. Larry Kirk and Dean McCallum made a presentation on estate planning, wills and power of attorney. This presentation generated a number of questions and also provided a lot of in-formation to our seniors.

Hope everyone had a great long weekend.

Diamond Lodge NewsHello from the residents

and staff at the Diamond Lodge.

We had another nice week with lots of our resi-dents going outside for a breath of fresh air.

Monday we started the week off with exercises. Then in the afternoon we played bean bag toss.

Tuesday was an excit-ing day being Valentine’s Day, February 14. In the morning we made Valentines then in the afternoon we had a tea, with a lovely cake and had a familiar face come to help serve.

Wednesday we had word games in the morning. In the afternoon we played fl oor Yahtzee.

Thursday we again did exercises. Also did some spring cleaning. In the afternoon we played our ever popular bingo.

Friday we treated 10 residents to breakfast club. With the smell of bacon through the build-ing making everyone wanting some. In the af-ternoon we played shuffl e board.

Saturday morning we played Home Sweet Home Bingo, with lots of winners. After dinner watched a movie.

Sunday we did a little spa, and lots of “1-1s”. In the afternoon we had

church and then some homemade treats.

got stuff to sell?

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call

948-3344

From February 24 to March 15, 2012

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Biggar Leisure216 Main Street, Biggar

306-948-2266

NOTICE OFANNUAL SCHOOL DIVISION MEETING

Notice Is Hereby Given That

THE ANNUAL MEETING OF ELECTORS OF THE

SUN WEST SCHOOL DIVISION NO. 207 WILL BE HELD IN

THE GYMNASIUM AT ELIZABETH SCHOOL, KINDERSLEY, SK

ON THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012 STARTING AT

THIS MEETING IS FOR THE TRANSACTION OF BUSINESS

7:00 P.M.

AS PRESCRIBED BY THE EDUCATION ACT. ALL ELECTORS

ARE URGED TO ATTEND THIS VERY IMPORTANT MEETING.

DATED AT ROSETOWN, SASKATCHEWAN.

THIS 10TH DAY OF FEBRUARY, 2012

RYAN SMITHSUPERINTENDENT OF BUSINESS

Student Loans Information NightBiggar Post-Secondary

Access Projectinvites all comunity members

Wednesday, February 297:00 p.m.

Great Plains College (north entrance)

Please join us for an informational evening of student loan eligibility,

helpful tips for completing applications, and important

information for students and parents.

For more information contact Erin at 948-1304

Everyone Welcome

The number of people in Saskatchewan receiving Employment Insurance (EI) dropped signifi cantly in December, 2011, com-pared to the same month in 2010, for 21 consecu-tive months of year-over-year decreases.

There were 10,050 ben-efi ciaries receiving regu-lar EI benefits in Sas-katchewan, a decrease of 2,230 (18.2 per cent) from December 2010. Each of the province’s eight large centres had year-over-year declines in the number of benefi -ciaries, with the largest occurring in Saskatoon, Regina, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.

Another drop in the number of EI recipientsin Saskatchewan

“With increases in av-erage weekly earnings and a growing demand for skilled employees, Saskatchewan workers continue to benefi t from a strong and steady econ-omy,” Advanced Educa-tion, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. “There is good reason for opti-mism with many econom-ic forecasters predicting that Saskatchewan will continue to be an eco-nomic leader in the year ahead.”

Saskatchewan’s de-crease in the number of EI recipients was the fourth best among prov-inces and was larger than

the national decrease of 16.7 per cent. In Sas-katchewan, 1.2 per cent of the labour force popu-lation received regular EI benefi ts in December compared to 1.9 per cent nationally, ranking Sas-katchewan second lowest among provinces, behind Alberta at 1.0 per cent.

“We are focused on keep-ing EI numbers moving in the right direction,” Norris said. “With more than 9,800 jobs posted on SaskJobs.ca, there are many employment opportunities around the province for Saskatch-ewan job seekers.”


AgricultureMONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

got stuff

to sell?

Place an ad in The Independent

call 948-3344

by Calvin DanielsIf you grew up on a farm previous to the 1980s the term summerfallow was as common to you as wheat.Every farmer factored

summerfallow into the farm crop rotation, often 50 per cent of the land left fallow to ‘rest’ while the other half was cropped.Of course weeds never

respected the idea of land being rested, so they populated summerfallow fi elds, and the proven way of controlling those weeds before they could set seed and repopulate the fi eld was to head out with the cultivator, turning the fi eld black.There was a certain

level of pride in keeping the summerfallow black, at least in the years I was growing up.Of course when Mother

Nature decided to have a dry summer it was not a good situation. The almost constant wind of the Prairies would send valuable topsoil into ditches, hedgerows, and to the neighbour’s since black dirt blows easily when dried out.It is a lesson the

industry should have learned in the 1930s, but it was one which really got taken to heart

industry wide in the dry years which started the 1980s.The idea of reducing

tillage took hold, and minimum tillage systems came to the forefront.A pioneer of the

minimum tillage movement in the Yorkton area was recently recognized by the Saskatchewan Soil Conservation Association when it presented Fred Phillips with the Conservation Farmer Award.It is interesting to talk

to Phillips about the problems he and his brother faced after the family made the decision to reduce tillage to save the family’s farm from blowing away.While the award singled

Fred out, he said it was actually a family effort to move to zero till farming

techniques. He said his parents Jim and Elsie, Uncle Ray and brother Martin were all involved in the decision to make the change.“It was the spring of ‘81.

It was a terrible spring. The land was blowing everywhere,” he said. “As a family we sat down and said that’s never going to happen again.”The issue was how to

make minimum tillage work at a time before the agriculture industry was actually focusing on equipment and farm systems which were specifi c to minimum tillage.Phillips said while they

were on the cutting edge of converting, the edge can be a tough place as the industry of farming caught up to farmer needs. He said fi nding the right equipment in

Pioneer of minimum tillage honouredthe early years was near impossible. He pointed to a Haybuster 1000 drill they used for seeding.“It was the only true

zero till machine that was available, and you could buy around here,” he said.Phillips said much of

what is now “taken for granted” in terms of making zero till systems work today, was not yet developed. “It was really experimenting to see what worked.”It is actually amazing

how quickly the agriculture industry made progress to meet the needs of farmers.The Haybuster might

have been Phillips only option in the 1980s, but quickly companies, predominantly on the Canadian Prairies moved to fi ll the need. The ingenuity of

designers at companies such as Bourgault, Flexi-Coil, and Morris fi lled the need for direct seeding equipment, and minimum till moved quickly to zero till.Zero till has added

thousands of acres to annual production and that is critical to feed a growing world population.And, the systems

have accomplished the primary hope for the system, which was the near elimination of erosion from wind.It was the foresight

of farmers like Phillips which helped speed the process, and what they heralded is perhaps the greatest advancement in farming techniques since the plow.

CROP OPPORTUNITY AND SCOTT RESEARCH UPDATETHURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2012 AT THE ALEX DILLABOUGH CENTRE 421 – 28TH STREET WEST, BATTLEFORD, SK

AGRICULTUREP R O G R A M S A N D S E R V I C E S

Featured topics include:A Market Update by Greg KostalWARC Project Results

Cost: $30 per person (includes lunch)Registration: 8:15 a.m.For more information or to register:Please call (306) 446-7964 or visit www.warc.ca.

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The Western Canada Farm Progress Show announces the launch of a new brand and logo celebrating their 35th Anniversary along with

Western Canada Farm Show changes name, updates logo, adds events

the recent recognition by Trade Show News Network (TSNN) as Canada’s largest trade show.

Canada’s Farm Progress

Show as it is now known, is an annual event that takes place June 20-22 at Evraz Place, Regina.

Canada’s largest trade show is an agriculture

industry show that focuses on innovation and technology primarily for dryland farming practices. Displays include companies that manufactured agriculture equipment, crop inputs, and ag services including fi nancial services.

Canada’s Farm Progress show attracts visitors from the Prairie provinces, Eastern Canada, the United States and 45 other countries.

A focus for this year’s farm show, is attracting international business. India, which had 14

representatives attend last year’s event, is a new market to note.

New this year at show will be the Farm Progress Forum. The forum aims to educate farmers by presenting key note speeches from reputable people in the fi eld.

Among the speakers scheduled for the event include Alliance Grain Traders Inc. President and Chief Executive Offi cer Murad Al-Katib, Canadian Wheat Board Tokyo offi ce general manager Derek Silworsky, certifi ed speaking professional Jolenne Brown and

academics from Colorado State University, the University of Guelph and University of Regina.

“We expect the global population to grow to 9.7 billion people by 2050. To feed this increased human population, farmers of the world will need to be more productive and effi cient. We want to offer professional farmers a venue to learn about new technologies and equipment that they can use to improve their own farming practice,” commented Rob O’Connor, show manager.


Deadline for classifi eds is

every Wednesday at 5:00 p.m.


Northwest Regional 4-H Curling was held February 4 and 5. The event was hosted in Big-gar by District 23 which includes Monarch Mul-tiple, Catherwood Beef and Sheep and Cather-wood Multiple. There were 12 teams in total competing.

Junior teams were: Dis-trict 22 Saskatoon Wood-lands, District 23 Mon-arch Multiple, District 30 Senlac Multiple, District

4-H curlers moving on to Provincial play

33 Canwood Multiple, District 35 Maidstone Gully Multiple. A Side was won by Senlac and the B Side winners was Canwood. Senlac and Maidstone Fern Gully will be representing the Northwest region at pro-vincials.

Senior teams were: Dis-trict 22 Vanscoy Multiple, District 23 Monarch Mul-tiple, District 30 Unity Community, District 33 Canwood Multiple,, Dis-

trict 35 Standard Hill Beef, District 36 Pierce-land Beef/Meadow Lake Beef, District 38 St. Wal-burg.

The A side winners were Pierceland/Meadow Lake and the B side winners were Canwood. Canwood and Vanscoy will be rep-resenting the Northwest region at provincials. The organizing committee ar-ranged the opening cere-monies with the fi rst rock being thrown by Randy Weekes, MLA, speeches from Kelly Block, MP, and Justin Zhong our 4-H regional specialist, a raffl e table, downtime entertainment, banquet with many clubs provid-ing entertainment and breakfast with closing ceremonies rounding out the weekend.

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Biggar Grain Ag Retail - 306.948.2643 306.948.2643Landis Grain Ag Retail - 306.658.2002

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According to a report from Statistics Canada, Saskatchewan’s average weekly earnings for De-cember 2011 increased by 3.3 per cent compared to a year ago.

This was the third high-est increase among the provinces and above the national average of 2.4 per cent.

Saskatchewan’s aver-age weekly earnings f o r December 2011 were $893.21, the sec-ond highest in Western Canada behind Alberta ($1,064.80) and above the national average of $888.26. Saskatchewan’s earnings have exceed-ed the national average since August 2011.

“Saskatchewan workers continue to benefi t from our growing economy with competitive wages and a multitude of job opportunities,” Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Min-

Saskatchewan among leaders in wage growth in Canada

ister Rob Norris said Thursday. “With a re-cord population and the second highest average weekly earnings in West-ern Canada, Saskatch-ewan is a great place to live and work.”

Saskatchewan’s real wage rate (adjusted for inflation) increased by 0.8 per cent, compared to a national increase of 0.1 per cent, compared to December of last year.

“With more than 10,000 jobs listed today on sask-jobs.ca, opportunities are available in every corner of the province,” Norris said.

Senior winners Pierceland/Meadow Lake Junior winners Senlac


Asquith NewsNeil Millard 329-4235

Asquith Town Council met for its regular council meeting on February 14.

Saskatchewan Environ-ment was out to inspect the water plant and la-goon, and all reports are compliant with regula-tions.

Christmas decorations have not yet been re-moved from the light standards as SaskTel can no longer assist the town with their bucket truck. Other alternatives are being looked at to remove the decorations, and the town asks for the public’s

Asquith Council News for February

The United Church held their annual Pan-cake Supper and Silent Auction on Tuesday, Feb-ruary 21 in the Senior’s Hall.

A good crowd attended and everyone seemed to enjoy the evening. I hope to attend the one next year as I always enjoy this special night!

The good weather really helped. The days seem much longer too!

Spring Training has be-gun in the Major Leagues. Both the New York Yan-kees and the Toronto Blue Jays will be contenders in the American League.

Who Said It? Faith - we trust, Sir, that God is on our side. It is more impor-tant to know that we are on God’s side. (Abraham Lincoln)

Jennett and Spencer Wilson of Caron, Sas-katchewan spent a few days with me during the school break.

Don’t forget the bingo in the Seniors Hall on Friday, March 30. Put it on your calendar.

The exercise group in-vite you to join them ev-ery Tuesday and Thurs-day of every week in the Senior Hall.

The next Seniors’ meet-ing will be held on Mon-day, March 5.

The Royal Purple will hold their next meeting on Wednesday, March 14.

Saint Patrick’s Day this year is on Saturday, March 17. Wear your green!

The March Break Chal-lenge - Tip of the Day: If

the kids are going crazy at home for the Febru-ary break, why not get them busy inventing old items or scrap materials that most people would throw away, otherwise known as “upcycling.” When you upcycle some-thing, you’re keeping it out of the waste stream altogether and turning it into something of higher value then the original!

Get More Physical - we all need it! To oxygenate

your muscles and release tension, take a brisk walk around the block. Even a 15 minute stroll has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety and de-pression. Something To Think About!

The baseball world was saddened to hear of the passing of Gary Carter, the Hall of Fame, Catcher of the Montreal Expos and the New York Mets. Gary was 57 years old and died of cancer.

patience in this regard.Requests are once again

being sent out to those who own plots at the Asquith Cemetery, and to those who have loved ones interred at the As-quith Cemetery, for dona-tions towards the mainte-nance and upkeep of the cemetery. Last year, the town contracted Jim and Kelly Stack to perform grounds keeping, and a lot of compliments were received on the neatness of the grounds. If enough donations are received, the town would like to

plant some trees at the cemetery this year. If you are someone who would like to donate to the Asquith Cemetery, and who would like to have a yearly letter about the Asquith Cemetery emailed to you, please send your email address to [email protected]. This will cut down on cost as well as save the environment!

The next regular coun-cil meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 13.

SATURDAY, March 31Biggar Community Hall

BIG thanks to all my clients. This esteemed award was only possible

because of your support.Sincerely, Duane Neufeldt

The Government o f Canada announced last Wednesday $1.8 million in funding to support victims of crime in Sas-katchewan.

The announcement was made by Rob Nich-olson MP for Niagara Falls, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Saskatch-ewan Justice Minister and Attorney General Don Morgan.

“Our government is committed to providing victims of crime, especial-ly young victims, with the services and support they require,” said Nicholson. “We will continue to en-sure that resources and programs are in place to better respond to the needs of victims of crime in Saskatchewan and

Govt of Canada provides $1.8 million for victims of crime in Saskatchewan

across Canada.”The funding aims to

improve programs and services to residents of Saskatchewan, particu-larly children, who have been victims o f c r i m e . Specifi cally, the funding will:• make it easier and less stressful for children to provide full and can-did testimony in crimi-nal court proceedings. This includes doing so from outside the court-room or through witness screens;• give families of miss-ing persons, including the families of murdered and missing Aboriginal women, easier access to

specialized support and services;• provide consistent, responsive, timely, and culturally sensitive sup-port services to victims

of crime and traumatic events in northern Sas-katchewan; and• ensure victims services workers have access to the training/learning re-sources they need and op-portunities to collaborate with colleagues to share best practices.

“We thank the federal government for their on-

going commitment to vic-tims of crime programs in Saskatchewan,” Mor-gan said. “The dedicated people who run these programs support victims

from the time a crime is committed and through-

out the court process. Too often, in the past, vic-tims’ needs have been left behind in the criminal justice system and these programs go a long way

to correcting that.”

T h e f u n d -ing was made a v a i l a b l e through the Victims Fund,

a grants and contribu-tions program adminis-

“Our government is committed to providing victims of crime, especially young victims, with the services and support they require,”

tered by the Department of Justice Canada. The Fund currently has $10.2 million a year available to give victims of crime a more effective voice in the criminal justice system.

More information about the Fund, and the gov-ernment’s approach to victims of crime, can be found at the Department of Justice Canada’s Web site.


by Delta Fay Cruickshank, of The Independentby Delta Fay Cruickshank, of The Independent


I am just back from a little R & R in Phoenix, Arizona. Well, it was supposed to be R & R, but it was actually a reunion with my high school girlfriends! Not much R & R really happened, what with running around the state taking in the sites, completely ignoring the GPS, laughter, and recalling memories from

so long ago. Isn’t it something else,

the way one becomes the age of the memory . . . we were all 18 again as soon as we met at the airport!

The fl ora of Arizona was fascinating, a bit prickly in many cases, and yet very interesting. Looking out across the desert, it was a bit drab at this time of the year, and yet, in the botanical gardens, I saw pictures of the cacti blooming, now that was colourful! I have been thinking about maybe creating a little cacti garden, hopefully to have a bloom come on them for that vibrant colour!

Without even checking the Internet to see how to grow a cactus garden, I know that the soil must be very fast draining. The soil in Arizona was very gritty, and what with barren river and creek beds, I understand that when it does rain, these waterways fi ll up quickly, then drain away, back to dry and gritty again. Another thing I noticed was the huge skies, the long hours of light and sunshine, so cacti need lots of direct sunshine. Could I replicate this environment in my home?

Well, I have a south and east facing living room, hopefully that will be enough light, and as long as I am careful not to overwater, I should be able to have a windowsill Arizona garden! So, off to research all I can about growing a cacti garden!

Here are some of things I learned:

Cacti grow for only a few months every year, they rest the remainder of the year. They will grow in the spring and fall, therefore needing more water, and resting during the hottest part of the summer and all winter, and not needing water.

Something very interesting came to my

attention . . . it is wrong to assume that a south facing window is the right location for a cactus! Too much bright south light in the winter could fool the plant into thinking it is time to bloom far too soon, or cause it dry out too much and cause sunburns! Apparently for most cacti, the east window will be best. Like all plants, know the light requirements of the plant before you bring it home!

Tap water is hard on cactus and will gradually cause them to stop growing! Pretty good tip, heh! A little white vinegar in tap water will be better for the plants, one tablespoon for fi ve gallons of water, nine drops per quart, .26 cc in one litre. It has been suggested not to store the mixed water, make it fresh each time you water, or buy distilled water for the cacti garden.

Water when the plant is growing, and water from the bottom! When the plant is not growing and doesn’t need the water, a light misting will work the best, using distilled water in the mister. Know your cactus, read

up on them and then you will know when it has it’s growth periods and its rest times. In the fall, wash dust off the plant, do not let it sit in the sun all wet though.

Fertilizing is not needed. The soil requirements are quite specifi c. Regular potting soil is not recommended, and yet plain sand is

not the answer either. What is needed is a very coarse, rocky soil with very small amounts of coarse sand and organic matter. I suggest going to a garden centre and asking for packages of planting medium for cacti and succulents.

I have looked up three kinds of cacti that will

Echinocereus, left and below, is a type of cactus that was recommenced for indoor use, and will also bloom in the house.

Mammillaria, above and right, is another type of cactus that was recommended for indoor blooms. (photos from wikipedia.com)

Opuntia, left, blooms in yellow, but there are varieties that have pink blossoms. The common name is Prickly Pear, a cacti that will grow wild in fi elds in Saskatchewan. There is a bird sanctuary near Plenty called Opuntia Lake, another name would be Prickly Pear Lake! I am thinking, time for a visit this summer.

bloom in the house. They are the echinocereus, the mammillaria and the opuntia. The common name for the opuntia is “prickly pear”. Now, we can grow these outside here in Saskatchewan! In actual fact there is a lake and bird sanctuary called Opuntia Lake (Prickly Pear Lake) near

Plenty. I hope to visit it some time this summer.

Each one of these types have several different other plants under the same name, with different colours of blossoms, I guess, just looking for what we can get would be the best way to fi nd plants for a cacti garden.

So, I am going to look, armed with my new found information, in garden centres for a few plants to create a windowsill garden, to remind me of the many hours spent laughing until our sides ached in Arizona.

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Kindersley(306) 463-2121

North Battleford(306) 445-3642


News from Perdue

Perdue Bowling news

Landis Locals Helen Buxton 658-2115

biggarindependent.ca S

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The school is closed this week for the annual Feb-ruary break. You better enjoy it kids; there won’t be one next year. Instead, you will begin school a week later in the fall.

My downstairs ten-ant, Jafer, enjoyed the company of two friends from Regina over the long weekend. When you are far away from your homeland, visits from fel-low countrymen (in this case Pakistan) are really

important.Leon Ochs and Lavern

Skog share a birthday on Valentines Day, and Audrey Och’s birthday is February 16, so, of course a party was in order. The Buxton’s, the Ochs, Amanda Anderson, Keith Richardson and Val Wheaton took the food and met at Lavern’s last Friday night. After stuff-ing ourselves with food, we enjoyed an evening of visiting.

Club 55: MHS, Tom Da-vies, 231; LHS, Kay Munro, 264; MHT, Tom Davies, 539; LHT, Kay Munro, 622; THS; Aches and Pains, 1,149; THT; Aches and

For toll-free health information 24 hours a day.

Please call 1-888-425-4444(TTY) if you have hearing or speech

difficulties

Heartland Health Region www.hrha.sk.ca

Smokers Helpline 1-877-513-5333 or www.smokefree.ca

Questions about Medication? Call 1-800-665-DRUG (3784). Ask questions online www.usask.ca/druginfo

Mental Health & Addictions Centralized Intake Line 1-866-268-9139 Monday to Friday 8:00 am—4:30 pm

After School Physical Activity Active Healthy Kids Canada gives a report card every year on how much physical activity kids get. Canada got a failing grade. The time after school was the most concerning. We can help improve our grade and the health of our kids. Cut down on screen time after school. If your kids are playing video games, choose ones requiring movement. Check out parks near your home and encourage unstructured play. Some communities offer activities after school for kids, see if yours does.

FOR SALE BY TENDER

Th e Village of Landis off ers for sale by tender the

following tax title property:

Lots 29 to 32, Block 6, Plan C5881

106 - 1st Ave. East

Tax Recovery: $1,216.00

Tenders must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked

“Property Tender” addressed to the Village Offi ce.

Tenders must be received at the Village Offi ce by 3:00

p.m. on March 13, 2012.

Tenders must indicate use of property. Payment in full

will be required within fi ve (5) days of the tender being

awarded.

All reasonable tenders will be considered. Any tender

accepted for less than the tax recovery amount will be

required to pay one year’s tax levy in addition to the

tender amount. Highest or any tender not necessarily

accepted.

For further information regarding these lots, you may

call Sandra at the Village Offi ce.

Dated the 14th day of February, 2012.

Sandra Beckett, Administrator

Eating healthy has nev-er been more popular. Whereas cooking shows once focused on making meals as delicious as possible, nowadays such shows place an equal emphasis on health and taste.

While some people might fi nd it hard to be-lieve that foods can be both healthy and deli-cious, it’s actually simple to trim fat without trim-ming taste. The follow-ing are some easy ways foodies can cut fat from their daily diets without sacrifi cing food fl avour.

• Mix up the milk. Many people grew up drinking whole milk and might find it hard to switch right to fat-free skim milk. Those who want to make that leap can ease the transi-tion by switching from whole milk to 2 percent and then gradually wean themselves from 2 per-cent to 1 percent and eventually skim milk. Coffee drinkers can also cut heavy cream from their coffee and instead choose a low-fat milk to go with their java.

• Don’t butter it up. Mom no doubt used to

Trim Fat Without Trimming Taste

make sandwiches on buttered bread. How-ever, making sandwiches without buttering the bread can sig-nificantly re-duce fat while not greatly af-fecting taste. For those who love mayon-n a i s e w i t h the ir sand-wich, consider light mayon-naise instead of traditional mayo.

• Order egg whites. The medical opin-ion on eggs seems to fl ip-fl op depending on whose opinion it is. One thing all health experts agree on is the health value of egg whites, which contain no fat and no cholesterol.

While eating just the egg whites and no yolks will sacrifi ce some taste, many people find they

don’t notice the difference after a while.

• Trim the fat. In many cases, the best way to trim fat from favourite foods is to get out a knife

and simply remove it. Fat can be trimmed from meats and poultry, mak-ing foods healthier with-

out sacrifi cing any taste. Those who enjoy the fl a-vour fat brings to their favourite foods can spice things up using fresh herbs and spices.

Pains, 3,252; MHA, Tom Davies, 185; LHA, Kay Munro, 175.

Ladies: LHS, Dorrie Lab-erswieler, 261; LHT, Sonja Evers, 636; THS, High Rollers, 1,107; THT, Bleep-ers, 3,098; LHA, Joey Lev-itt, 181.

Mens: MHS, George Bar-tley, 238; MHT, George Bartley, 669; THS, WWF, 752; THT, Tri-Hards, 2,156;

MHA, Tom Davies, 187.Mixed: MHS, Dennis

Notschke, 275; LHS, Joey Levitt, 257; MHT, Dennis Notschke, 607; LHT, Joey Levitt, 610; THS; Smilin’ 5, 1,110; THT; Smilin’ 5, 3,090; MHA; Chai Senglow, 197; LHA; Joey Levitt, 180.

Y.B.C.: Junior HD, Kyren Wilkinson, 327. HS, Dan-ielle Munro, 171. Bantam HD: Dakota Anderson. HS:, Dakota Anderson, 157.

DEADLINE FOR CLASSIFIEDS

5:00 P.M. WEDNESDAY

THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 13 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012

Farmland for Sale (MLS) Wardrop Irrigation Pobran Weekes Hoppe Dixon Johnson Yurchuk HillCor Whitmore Green Sopotyk Hay/Rec Land Sopotyk Farmland Kohlman

RM 317 RM 284 RM 343 RM 347 RM 377 RM 346 RM 316 RM 342 RM 466 RM 316 RM 317 RM 372 RM 372 RM 350

2099 ac. 1855 ac. 1229 ac. 1226 ac.

793 ac. 640 ac. 480 ac. 458 ac. 322 ac. 320 ac. 160 ac. 159 ac. 158 ac. 156 ac.

Acreages for Sale (MLS) Clarke Egert FusterKerr Jordan Unity Ac. Dodsland Woods Road Rawson Sutherland Elliott Denholm

Rosetown Biggar Stranraer Biggar Wilkie Unity Dodsland Biggar Rosetown Wilkie Elrose Riverland

*$589,900 *$290,000 $249,900 $235,000 $200,000 $185,000 $179,900 $169,900 $149,000

$85,000 $85,000 $33,000

Sale Pending FusterJordan Wardrop Pobran Whitmore Krivoshen

Stranraer Wilkie RM 317 RM 343 RM 316 RM 376

$249,900 $200,000 2099 ac. 1229 ac.

320 ac. 40 ac.

Recently Sold Hamilton Holbrook Swanson Swanson Krchov Ali Freethy Freethy

Dodsland RM 376 RM 376 RM 376 RM 317 RM 344 RM 317 RM 317

$199,900 317 ac. 298 ac. 160 ac. 160 ac. 160 ac. 150 ac.

10 ac.

Commercial Property (MLS) Demaine Hotel Demaine $399,900

$84,900 Featured Listing 308 6th Ave E

$175,000 Featured Listing 414 7th Ave W

$268,900 102 6th Ave E Featured Listing

Tim Hammond Realty 113 3rd Ave W Biggar, SK

www.TimHammond.ca

306.948.5052 306.948.9168 306.948.7995 306.831.9214 306.948.4478

Main Office Tim’s Cell Cari’s Cell Grant’s Cell Dave’s Cell

Tim Hammond, BSA, P.Ag. Owner - Broker

Cari McCarty - Residential Grant Anderson - Farms Dave Molberg - Farms

Fantastic 588 square foot 4 bedroom home! Main floor features kitchen, living room, master bed-room, and 3 piece bathroom. Upper level serves as a loft bedroom. Lower level has 2 bedrooms, 2 pc bath plus shower room, laundry area, and a cold room. Exterior boasts vinyl siding and win-dows, metal fascia, and soffit. Single detached garage. Call to view today.

Spacious home in great condition! Main floor includes the kitchen, dining room, living room, 4 piece bathroom, 2 bedrooms, and master bed-room with ensuite. Lower level features rec room, den, 4th bedroom, 3 piece bathroom, work shop, storage and cold rooms, utility and laundry. Fully fenced yard. Call to view today!

Completely renovated and modernized 1440 sq ft raised bungalow. Features 2 bedrooms, 2 bath-rooms, and custom kitchen with eating island. Walk out developed lower level. Maintenance free yard, double detached garage and only a block from the schools! Call to view this fabulous home today.

Homes for Sale in Biggar (MLS)

Langham 207 2nd Perdue 909 8th St Perdue 9th St Landis 212 3rd W Kinley 518 3rd Landis Lot Wilkie Lot 204 2nd St W

$274,900 $89,900 $54,900 $49,900 $24,900 $22,500 $15,000

Out of Town Property 302 6th Ave W 102 6th Ave E 205 Turnbull Ave 402 7th Ave E 2nd Ave W Condos* 313 6th Ave E 414 7th Ave W 201 King Street 412 3rd Ave E 308 6th Ave E 104 6th Ave E (Lot)

$296,500 $268,900 $257,000 $223,900 $198,900 $175,000 $175,000 $131,000 $124,900

$84,900 $30,000

Current Listings

313 6th Ave E 219 4th Ave E

$175,000 $116,999

Sale Pending

Rosetown Condo 224 2nd Ave W

$98,900 $43,400

Recently Sold

*denotes exclusive listing

P U B L I C N O T I C E

Rural Municipality of Perdue No. 346

Please be advised that the bridge located on the NW 32-343-10-W3 (correction line)

will be CLOSED FOR REPAIRS commencing February 27 to March 10.

NO thru traf c will be allowed during this time. Alternate routes will be marked.

These days ribbons are worn for many differ-ent causes. Red signi-fi es AIDS awareness. A yellow ribbon has long represented support for armed forces. However, one of the most promi-nent ribbon colours is pink, which aims to raise awareness of and support for breast cancer.

Pink is a color that is uniquely feminine, and it also represents a person full of health and vibran-cy; think of little babies pink with life. Pink is also a colour that seems the complete antithesis of cancer, and thusly in-spires hope for renewed health and survival.

There is some contro-versy surrounding the origins of the breast can-cer mascot … the pink ribbon. There are also suggestions that the rib-bon was intended to be peach and not pink.

In 1992, just about ev-ery organization started using ribbons to raise awareness. The New York Times actually dubbed 1992 “The Year of the Rib-bon.” Alexandra Penney, the then-editor of Self magazine, wanted to cre-ate a ribbon for the pub-lication’s second annual

Origins of the Pink Ribbon Breast Cancer Aware-ness Month issue. The previous year she had worked with cosmetics gi-ant Estee Lauder. Evelyn Lauder, the senior corpo-rate vice president, was herself a breast cancer survivor. Penney thought a collaboration between the magazine and Lauder could see a ribbon on cosmetic counters across the nation, and help sell a few magazines in the process.

The trouble was Pen-ney had read a story about a 68-year-old woman, Charlotte Ha-ley, who was producing handmade ribbons in her home. Haley had a number of people in her immediate family who had battled breast cancer and her hand-made “peach” ribbons intended to raise aware-ness about the limited government funds being used for breast cancer research. Haley’s mes-sage was spreading by word of mouth.

Penney and Lauder contacted Haley and wanted to further col-laborate on the peach ribbon theme. However, Haley didn’t want to be involved, saying the ef-

fort would be too com-mercial. She refused to turn over rights to the use of the peach ribbon. As a result, Penney con-sulted with attorneys who said to come up with another colour, and pink was eventually chosen.

Pink had already been associated with breast cancer in the past. Just

a few years earlier, the Susan G. Komen Breast

Cancer Foundation had given out pink visors to its “Race for the Cure” participants. It had also created a pink ribbon.

The pink ribbon quickly took off by leaps and bounds. Millions were dis-tributed by Estee Lauder. There are many philan-thropic and commercial businesses who now use

the pink ribbon in their breast cancer market-ing plans. Every October, women are urged to don pink for Breast Cancer Aware-ness Month. One can fi nd the pink ribbon adorning everything from cereal boxes to cans of cleanser.

Many embrace the pink ribbon as a symbol of hope, one that has done i t s share of work to-ward spreading the word about the need f or more breast can-cer awareness and research.

The Independent closes Fridays at 1:00 p.m.

Just a reminder . . .

Call 306-237-4212TOLL FREE 1-888-264-1955

“If you don’t see the vehicle you want, we will nd it, give us a call!”

We Service What We Sell

***VIEW OUR AUTOS ON www.camdonmotors.com

2007 F-150 XLT, supercab, 4x4, only 108,000km, SK Tax Pd ..................... $14,9002007 F-150 ½ ton, 5 spd, 2WD, only 28km c/w service cap, very good ...................... $12,9002006 Hyundai Tuncson GL, 4wd, 113 km, very good .......................................... $13,9002006 Dodge 1500, quad cab, 5.7 Hemi, 4x4, 90,000 km, tax pd ..................... $15,9002001 Dodge 3500 Cummins 4x4, 5 spd, duals, 12’ deck, 194km ................................ $15,9002001 IHC 4900 DT 530, 300 hp, 10 spd, new BHT, fresh SK safety ........................ $47,5001999 F-350, 7.3 diesel 4x4, auto, duals, 150 miles, very straight and clean .......... $15,9001997 F-150, reg. cab, V6, long box, SK Tax Pd ......................................... $ 2,900

2007 F 150 XLT b 4 4 l2011 Silverado LT, crew, 4x4, OnStar, 34 km, very good! ........................................ $28,9002011 Escape Limited, V6, 4x4, leather, 11 km! ............................................... $29,9002011 Ranger Supercab 4x4 XLT, 58km .................................................................. $18,9002011 Hyundai Elantra, 30,000 km, loaded, new style body! ................................. $18,9002010 F-150 4x4, crew cab Lariat, 30,000 km, local truck, tax pd .......... $34,5002009 Flex SEL, 55 km, AWD, local trade, SK tax Pd ............................................... $21,9002008 Ford Focus SE, ATC PW PL, 69,000km, SK Tax Pd ......................................... $10,9002007 Ford Ranger Supercab, 4x4, new tires, ATC, PW PL, SK Tax Pd .................. $13,900

CAM-DON MOTORS LTD.

Perdue, Sask.

ask for Kevin

2011 Ford Fusion SE, 22,000km, auto, sirus/sync, like new

$18,900

SOLDSOLD

Trades Welcome,

More Vehicles

Available, Financing Available DL #916201

SOLDSOLD

SOLDSOLD

SOLDSOLD

Purchasing Cattle?Need

Financing?Call your local

BIGGAR FEEDER CO-OPERATIVE

Jim - 948-5472

Classi edcall: 948-3344 fax: 948-2133

email: [email protected]

CLASSIFIED AD RATESDEADLINE-WEDNESDAY AT 5 p.m.25 words or less ....................................$12.00 per week Over 25 words .................................. - per word 25¢

Repeats -- 3 weeks for the price of 2If The Independent Box Number is used add $3.00

• ALL CLASSIFIED MUST BE PREPAID •Obituaries, limit of 300 words, without photo..... $50.00 - With photo............................. $60.00 - Additional words, per word.... 25¢‘Happy’ Ads…Anniversary, Engagements, Weddings, Birthday Greetings,etc.................$30.00 with photo...................... $40.00Bold Type .................................................... $2.00Italic Type..................................................... $2.00Birth Announcements................................... $25.00 - With a Photo......................... $30.00Administration Charges................................ $5.00

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

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 rst incorrect insertion.NO REFUND on classi eds. Times to run must be stated at First Insertion.

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

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

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2012 14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

SUBSCRIPTION RATES…Pick up… $28.00 + $1.40 gst = $29.40Inside 40-mile radius/ONLINE $33.00 + $1.65 gst = $34.65Outside 40-mile radius… $38.00 + $1.90 gst = $39.90

Box 40,

Biggar, SK

S0K 0M0

Deadline Wed. 5 p.m.

AUCTIONS

CARD OF THANKS

NOTICE

LIVESTOCK

MISCELLANEOUS

WANTED

CARS & TRUCKS

RECREATION

COMING EVENTS

Lentils: CDC Impower CL CDC Greenland CDC Maxim CL CDC Imax CLWheat: AC Carberry AC AndrewDurum: AC Strong eld

Seed & Feed

PEDIGREE SEED for Spring 2012

NAKONECHNY SEEDSRuthilda, SK S0K 3S0

(306) 932-4409

Peas: CDC GoldenCanary Seed: CDC Basoia CDC Maria

Where Quality Comes First!

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

for

“Mother of the Year”now being accepted

‘Mother of the Year Tea’

will be held Tuesday, May 1st

…submit your favourite Mom/

nomination letter, 150 words or less,

stating why you think your choice should be

Mother of the Year. Drop off nominations to the Biggar Community

ConnectionsNova Wood Centre,

6th Ave. East, Box 1690, Biggar or

The Biggar Independent102 - 3rd Ave. West,

Box 40, Biggar. Deadline Apr. 11, 2012

…support Biggar Community Connections

with their annual recognition/fundraiser.

*NOTE…mothers from various communities and

service clubs will all come together to be honoured on

the day of the tea.

St. Paul’s Anglican Church thanks everyone for coming to our Pancake Supper. It was nice to see everyone again for this annual event. It was a huge success and a good time was had by all. Thank you! Also, welcome to all the new people in Biggar and area.

9p1

FRIDAYS during Lent: Interdenominational services at 12:05 p.m. followed by lunch at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, corner of King St. and 4th Ave. E., Biggar. Sponsored by Biggar and District Ministerial. Everyone welcome.

7p6WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29: Biggar Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting, 7:30 p.m. at Biggar New Horizons, Everyone welcome!

9c1SUNDAYS in March: Presbyterians, Anglicans, Lutherans will be worshipping at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Biggar at 10:30 a.m. Potluck lunch following service on March 25.. Everyone is welcome. For more information or pastoral services, phone Rev. Mark Kleiner at 951-7122.

48/10tfn

MARCH 1 - 23: “A Celebration of Student Expression”-Students Art Show, now showing in the Credit Union Gallery at the Biggar Museum, 1 - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday.

9c3MARCH 5 - 9: Biggar Music Festival Association proudly presents their annual festival. Performers Concert, Sunday, March 11, 2:30 p.m.; March 5…Instrumental at BCS 2000; March 6 - 7, piano at the Majestic Theatre; March 8 - 9, voice at the Majestic Theatre. Programs are available at the drugstores.

9c2THURSDAY, MARCH 15: 1:00 p.m., Biggar Museum & Gallery Annual Meeting. Everyone welcome.

9c3SATURDAY, MARCH 17: 2-4 p.m. Reception for “A Celebration of Student Expression”-students art show in The Credit Union Gallery at Biggar Museum. Meet the young artists and view their work!

9c3FRIDAY, MARCH 23: Biggar & District Arts Council presents… “Cadence”, 7:30 p.m. at The Majestic Theatre, Biggar. Advance tickets available at de Moissac Jewellers. Adults/Seniors, $25 at the door, advance, $20; students, $15 at the door, advance $12; children 12 and under, $5.

7c6

COMING EVENTS

AEROFLEX ATHLETIC CLUB INC., 201 Athabascan Ave., Sherwood Park, Alberta. Saturday, March 3, 10 a.m. Selling complete premiere club including cardio, exercise equipment, free weights, racks, benches, tanning & massage, cafÇ, lockers, TV’s, mirrors, rubber & hardwood ooring, & much more. See www.montgomeryauct ions.com. 1-800-371-6963.

HUGE RV AUCTION April 27th, 2012. Mark this date, and follow us Online www.yorktonauct ioncentre.com. Online bidding on sale day, 306.782.5999.

Families, clubs, churches and businesses are invited to do a Heritage Page to be on permanent display at Biggar Museum. Share your history! For more information call 948-3451 or visit museum 1 - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday.

7tfnThis newspaper accepts advertisements in good faith. We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally. Publications by this paper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or service offered.

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

tfn

CELEBRATING 100 YEARS growing perennials, shrubs, trees, fruit. Great selection, quality, price. Free catalog. Boughen Nurseries Box 12, Valley River, MB R0L 2B0. www.boughennurseries.net Ph: 204.638.7618. Fx: 204-638-7172.

Get Fast Restless Leg Syndrome and Leg Cramp Relief. Safe with Medication, All Natural, Proven Results, Guaranteed!!! Sold in 75 Countries 1-800-465-8660 EST. www.allcalm.com

IMMEDIATE CA$H for Gold, Diamonds, Silver, Coins, Ingots, Old Rings, Chains, Charms. GMG Jewellers, 105 21st St E, Saskatoon. [email protected] 1-866-464-7464 www.gmgjewellers.com.

P R O V I N C E - W I D E CLASSIFIEDS. Reach over 350,000 readers weekly. Call this newspaper NOW or 306-649.1405 for details.

Steel Buildings STEEL BUILDINGS FOR ALL USES! Spring Deals! Make an offer on sell-off models at factory and save thousands NOW! Call for FREE Brochure - 1-800-668-5111 ext. 170.

STEEL OF A DEAL BUILDING SALE! 20X24 $4798. 25X30 $5998. 30X42 $8458. 32X58 $12,960. 40X60 $15,915. 47X80 $20,645. One end wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www.pioneersteel.ca.

OUCH!!!

What you don’t knowabout your kids'

physical inactivity isactually hurting them.

Pledge totake action at

saskatchewaninmotion.ca

HOME WANTED … family relocating to Biggar. Looking for a newer home with three bedrooms up, 2+ baths with a double garage. Will consider acreages in the vicinity of Biggar. If you’re thinking of selling, we’re buying. Call Colin/Shanelle at 306.931.2998.

8p3Old battery collection, Fisher #300 Cadet Squadron. Drop off at the Biggar Land ll OR contact Quentin Sittler at 658-2132

3tfn

WANTEDMain Street Garage Sale is accepting donations of all items in clean and working condition. Please phone 948-1773 or 948-5393. Pickup available.

32tfn

2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 2.2 EcoTech engine, 117,000km, standard (5 spd), cloth interior (interior and exterior in excellent condition), one set of summer tires on rims, one set of winter tires on rims (Michelin), very good gas mileage, excellent overall running condition, asking price: $3,700 or OBO. Contact Brianne, 306-948-9763

7p3Guaranteed approval drive away today! We lend money to everyone. Fast approvals, best interest rates. Over 500 vehicles sale priced for immediate delivery OAC. 1-877-796-0514. www.yourapprovedonline.com.

1985 Yamaha Virago, 1,000 cc, new rubber, carbs and forks redone. Phone 948-7521.

36tfn

HHEATED CANOLAWANTED!!

- GREEN CANOLA- SPRING THRASHED- DAMAGED CANOLA

FEED OATSWANTED!!

- BARLEY, OATS, WHT- LIGHT OR TOUGH

- SPRING THRASHEDHEATED FLAX

WANTED!!HEATED PEAS

HEATED LENTILS"ON FARM PICKUP"

Westcan Feedd & Grain

1-877-250-5252

Two serviced lots, side by side in Biggar, 100’x140’, $79,900. Call 717-4681 (cell)

5tfnFOR SALE. 55 PLUS ACTIVE ADULT Living. Large Ground Level Townhomes. 306 241 0123 www.diamondplace.ca.

REAL ESTATE

LAND for CASH RENT. RM of Grandview 349, W 1/2-30-36-18-W3rd, NW-29-36-18-W3rd, SW-33-36-18-W3, SW-17-36-18-W3. No grain storage. Three year contract. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. Tenders accepted until March 12, 2012. Written tenders to: G. Kolenosky, Box 160, Landis, SK, S0K 2K0

9c2

LAND FOR SALE

Classi eds Work Phone 948-3344For fax service,

see us at The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave., Biggar


HEALTH/WELLNESS

SERVICES

Charter/Sherwood

Apartments1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom

Heat and water supplied, wired for cable TV and satel-lite systems, laundry facilities, appliances, some suites with dishwashers, air condition-ing, parking with plug-ins.

For more information call:948-3820

302 - 8th Ave. W. • Biggar

FOR RENT

SERVICES

If YOU are…• Moving• Expecting a Baby• Planning a Wedding• Anticipating RetirementCall WELCOME WAGON at 948-2563 - Lisa Haynes

We have gifts and informationwww.welcomewagon.ca

HOUSES FOR SALE

PERSONAL

CAREER TRAINING

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

TRAVEL

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

LAND FOR SALE

PURCHASING:SINGLE TO LARGE

BLKS OF LAND.PREMIUM PRICESPAID WITH QUICK

PAYMENT.

SOLD EXAMPLESBengough - 22 1/4’s

Bethune - 2 1/4’sBlaine Lake - 245 acres

Cupar - 5 1/4sDavidson - 6 1/4’sElfross – 18 1/4’s

Emerald – 22 1/4’sEastend - 2 1/4’sGrenfell - 3 1/4’s

Harwarden - 1 1/4’sLestock - 5 1/4’s

Lake Alma – 9 1/4’sMarcelin - 7 1/4’s

Moose Jaw - 8 1/4’sNokomis - 8 1/4’sOgema - 36 1/4’s

Prince Albert - 1 1/4’sSaskatoon - 2 1/4's

Semans - 7 1/4’sSimpson - 10 acres

Viscount - 3 1/2Wadena - 4 1/4’s

Wakaw West - 41/4’sWatrous/Young -

30 1/2Mobile Home ParkWeyburn - 21 1/4’s

Call DOUG 306-955-2266

EMAIL:[email protected]

Letter of AppreciationWhen we were appro a c h e d by

Mr. Doug Rue of FreshwaterHoldings in July 2011, it was an

opportunity for us to sell ourfarmland at a very fair price.

Mr. Rue visited our home andhe explained the process, w h i c h

went forward very quickly. Wereceived payment on

September 15, 2011. Weappreciated Mr. Rue’s friendly

and understanding manner.There were no difficulties and

he kept in touch throughout thetransaction.

SPECIALIZING INFARM LAND SALES

WHAT WE DO- Represent Buyers &Investors with CASH

for large & smallparcels

- Lease back to Selleris a possibility

ABOUT US- Long term Sask

farmer & businessman- Fully licensed,

professional service - Highly effective Farm

Land sales team- References available

upon request - We welcome your callor email to discuss the

sale of your land oranswer questions.

HARRY SHEPPARD#1 Top producer in

2011 at Sutton Group- Results Realty,

Regina, SK. [email protected]

(306)530-8035

SPECIALIZING INFARM LAND SALES

WHAT WE DO- Represent Buyers &Investors with CASH

for large & smallparcels

- Lease back to Selleris a possibility

ABOUT US- Long term Sask

farmer & businessman- Fully licensed,

professional service - Highly effective Farm

Land sales team- References available

upon request - We welcome your callor email to discuss the

sale of your land oranswer questions.

HARRY SHEPPARD#1 Top producer in

2011 at Sutton Group- Results Realty,

Regina, SK. [email protected]

(306)530-8035

423-4th Ave. West, Biggar… 1100 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 1 bath plus 1/2 bath off master bedroom upstairs, nished basement with one bedroom and 3/4 bath. Detached garage, Beautifully landscaped yard. Contact Bob Foster, 948-7348, leave message

9tfnMARSDEN, SASK.… 1652 sq. ft, 3 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom, 1976 mobile home with addition developed a a bungalow, detached garage, $109,900. (780)-808-9885 MLS46398

9p3

HOUSES FOR SALE

DATING SERVICE. Long-term/short-term relationships. Free to try! 1-877-297-9883. Live intimate conversation, Call #7878 or 1-888-534-6984. Live adult 1on1 Call 1-866-311-9640 or #5015. Meet local single ladies. 1-877-804-5381. (18+).

GET PAID TO LOSE WEIGHT. $5,000 For Your Success Story.Personal Image TV Show. Call to Qualify: 416-730-5684 ext 2243. [email protected]. www.mertontv.ca.

HERBAL MAGIC - With Herbal Magic lose up to 20 pounds in just 8 weeks and keep it off. Results Guaranteed! Start today call 1-800-854-5176.

WorleyParsonsCord offers extensive experience in field construction, module fabrication and assembly in the energy industry across Western Canada.

Operating in a fully integrated EPC environment or as a standalone general construction contractor, WorleyParsonsCord’s track record in oil and gas transmission, gas processing, petrochemicals, power generation and heavy oil sectors is unrivaled. Flight programs and living out allowance may apply.

WorleyParsonsCord is currently hiring for the following positions throughout Alberta: • Pipefitters • Rig welders • Welders Helpers • Iron Workers • Labourers • Crane Operators • CWB Structural Welders • Construction Managers • Project Managers • Construction Superintendents • Foreman • General Foreman • Safety Advisors

Construct your career with us! Apply online at www.worleyparsons.com/careers

or via email: [email protected] Phone 1-855-483-2626.

HAWAII ON THE MAINLAND, where healthy low-cost living can be yours. Modern Arenal Maleku Condominiums, 24/7 secured Community, Costa Rica “the most friendly country on earth”! 1-780-952-0709; www.CanTico.ca.

Need somebody to tend bar at your function, wedding, anniversary, etc. Contact Biggar Arts Council members, Denise, 948-5146 or Marilyn, 948-2792.

tfn

CRIMINAL RECORD? Guaranteed record removal since 1989. Con dential. Fast. Affordable. Our A+ BBB rating assures employment/travel freedom. Call for free information booklet. 1-8-NOW-PARDON (1-866-972-7366). RemoveYourRecord.com.

MoneyProvider.com. $500 Loan and +. No Credit Refused. Fast, Easy, 100% Secure. 1-877-776-1660.

HAZCO Environmental

Services is seeking a

Sales Representative to join

our sales team. Work from

your home town and grow

professionally with one of

the largest oil and gas

service companies in the

industry. CCS is welcoming

resumes for the position of

Sales Representative for

our Saskatchewan area.

Please visit our website at

www.ccscorporation.ca or

submit your applications to

[email protected] SERVICE MANAGER.

NORTHLAND CHRYSLER IN

MEADOW LAKE IS SEEKING

A SERVICE MANAGER.

PREVIOUS AUTOMOTIVE

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.EXCELLENT BENEFIT

PACKAGE FOR THE RIGHT

INDIVIDUAL.

EMAIL RESUMES TO

[email protected]

DON’T MISS this opportunity. 30 year manufacture expanding across Canada. Fencing, decks and docks. Expanding your business or start new. Email: [email protected]; www.friendlyearth.com. 1-800-465-9968.

HOME BASED BUSINESS. Established franchise network, serving the legal profession, seeks self-motivated individuals. No up-front fees. Exclusive territory. Complete training. Continuous Operational Advertising Support; www.lormit.com.

Bring your future into focus by participating in program information sessions at Lakeland College. RSVP today for one or more of these events. Vermilion campus March 5: Child and Youth Care, Early Learning and Child Care, Educational Assistant, and Of ce Administration; March 9: Environmental Sciences; March 16: Agricultural Sciences. Lloydminster campus March 13: University Transfer, Business, Esthetician, Practical Nurse, Event Management, Health Care Aide, Heavy Oil Operations Technician, Arti cial Nail Technician, Driver Training, and more. Details at www.lakelandcollege.ca/infosessions To RSVP phone 1 800 661 6490.

WORK FROM HOME. Largest Medical Transcriptionist employer in Canada looks to CanScribe for 100 more MT’ s. We need more students! Enroll Today! 1-800-466-1535 www.canscribe.com [email protected]

Biggar Subway requires sandwich artists to prepare food and provide excellent

customer service.• Drop off your resumes at Subway with references; or fax 306-948-2231; or email [email protected]• We will train.

Part-time of ce help wanted in accounting rm in Landis, Sask. Knowledge of Quickbooks, Word and Excel an asset. For more information, please call Bernadette Garrett at 306-658-4567.

8c3One person of ce manager needed immediately for Monarch Trailer Factory near Perdue, Sask. Mature, responsible multi skilled person required to manage a one person of ce. Position will entail all facets of of ce work including some management, bookkeeping, accounting, secretarial and reception. Applicants should have knowledge of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, bank reconciliations, inventory control, etc. Computer skills would be desirable. A minimum of two year experience in a similar position is expected. Please fax resume to 1-306-237-9100.

9p3FORT MCMURRAY JOBS! Jacobs Field Services Ltd. (JFSL Triton Division) is looking for Pipe tters and Rig Welders for camp job starting in March. Excellent wages, CLAC bene ts, ights provided to Edmonton, Calgary and Saskatoon. Email: [email protected]. Fax 780-485-6722. Phone 780-969-1890.

SERVICE MANAGER Hanna Chrysler Ltd. (Hanna, Alberta). Opportunity in a perfect family environment. Strong team, competitive wages, bene ts, growth potential. Fax resume: 403-854-2845. Email: [email protected].

Speedway Moving Systems Requires O/O for our 1 ton and 3 ton eets to transport RVs throughout N. America. We offer competitive rates and Co. Fuel cards. Paid by direct deposit. Must have clean criminal record and passport to cross border.1-866-736-6483; www.speedwaymovingsystems.com



TH Vac Services, Kindersley Sask is now hiring drivers & swampers. Competitive wage, bene ts package, scheduled days off. Tickets an asset. Fax resume to 306.463.2919 or call Don @ 306.463.7720.

ASPHALT PAVING Personnel Required: Paving contractor in the beautiful BC Interior requires paving personnel for all aspects of Asphalt Lay-down. Applicants should have minimum 1 years’ experience in Highway, Commercial and Residential Paving, although candidates with construction experience will be considered for training. Please forward resume to [email protected].


THIN AND HEALTHY’S TOTAL SOLUTION --

discover the magic that is working for our members! We provide Weight Loss, Movement and Motivaion

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THE BIGGAR INDEPENDENT

on NEWSSTANDS at…• Leslie’s Drugstore• Pharmasave• Weasie’s Gourmet Blends• Super A Foods• Shop Easy Food• Quick Stop• Esso 414• Feudal Co-op, Perdue• A & D Foods, Perdue

Serve your own!• Wine Kits• Beer Kits• All the supplies

Grapes Moments, in The Independent,102-3rd. Ave. W.

Biggar, 948-3344

BLANKET CLASSIFIED ADS

can reach more than 520,000 potential cus-

tomers

One phone call covers the entire province

Expand your market and increase your

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Phone… 948-3344Biggar

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WHY NOT GET WHY NOT GET DOWN TO BUSINESS DOWN TO BUSINESS

BY PLACING YOUR BY PLACING YOUR CLASSIFIED AD, CLASSIFIED AD,

TODAY!TODAY!CALL 9483344CALL 9483344


DIRECT SALES REPRESENTATIVES. Canada’ s premiere home automation and Security Company is NOW hiring April-August. No experience necessary. Travel Required. E-mail resume [email protected] Visit: www.vivint.ca

NEED A HOME PHONE? Cable TV or High Speed Internet? We Can Help. Everyone Approved. Call Today. 1-877-852-1122 Protel Reconnect

SUBWAY ROSETOWN - Wanted 1 Food Counter Attendant $11.80/hr, No Exp. Req. Rosetown, SK. [email protected]


by Gary Boyle, The Royal Astronomical Society of CanadaWinter WonderlandIt is great to see our parent star - the Sun making the news once again.

It started with an active region labelled sunspot 1402 and the M-9 solar fl are that blasted off the sun’s surface on January 22 at 10:59 p.m. EST. From that point on, the explosion and expected grand aurora displays was talk on TV, radio and water coolers around the world.

An astronomical event like this is a good catalyst on motivating people to learn more about the night sky.

The Corona Mass Ejecta hurling through space at a staggering 2,200 km/sec hit our planet as predicted on the 24th at 10 a.m. EST produced an S3 solar storm resulting in spectacular aurora displays over Europe. In fact a laboratory in Norway measured a surge in ground current. Some 12 hours later, the storm had passed. Some places in Canada and the lower states reported seeing Northern Lights but I am sure nothing like across the Atlantic Ocean.

Although sunspot 1402 is now pointing away from Earth it still blew out an X-2 fl are on Jan. 27. Be sure to follow this spot’s activity over the next couple of weeks as the Sun rotates. If this intense region is still healthy, we might get a second chance to an aurora display but sunspots do not usually survive more than one revolution.

As we turn the calendar page to February, we fi nd ourselves mixing the bad with the good. The bad news is in Canada, it is extremely cold in some parts for observing, unless you have an observatory with a warm room.

The good news is the mighty constellation Orion now sits on the meridian at 9 p.m. local time and is well placed for observing. Nestled within its 594 square degrees of sky are the three iconic stars forming his belt. This trio of suns from left to right are named Alnitak, Alnilam and Mintaka residing 700, 1,300 and 900 light years respectively from us.

The iconic belt rests on the celestial horizon and

The Sky This Month -- February 2012is perfectly positioned to be seen from any point on Earth. In fact the orientation of the ancient pyramids matches exactly to the belt stars. Including Orion itself, a dozen bright suns light up the sky with the brightest being Sirius located to the lower left of Orion’s foot.

Speaking of Alnitak, look for the Flame Nebula only half a width of the full moon to the east. Designated as NGCC 2024, the Flame is a combination emission and refl ective nebula. The Nebula is estimated to be some 1,300 light years from us. Energetic ultraviolet light from within is causing the nebula to light up as a thick dark cloud gas and dust in front silhouettes the back light – giving the resemblance of a fl ame.

Amongst the seven brighter prominent stars that defi ne the Orion’s shape or asterism, Betelgeuse is an interesting super-giant o r a n g e star.

First is its size. If Alpha O r i o n i s r e p l a c e d our Sun, its boundaries w o u l d expand a bit past the orbit of Jupiter. Betelgeuse r e s i d e s 425 light years from Earth and because of its girth, the Hubble S p a c e Telescope was able to image its disk. Living its fi nal stages in a cocoon of dust p u s h e d up by its own solar winds, astronomers believe Betelgeuse is large enough to become a supernova when it fi nally dies. When the time comes, it will probably be as bright as the quarter moon and be seen during the day. After the explosion, its super dense core will be a neutron star measuring the size of a small town.

On the opposite end from Orion’s right shoulder, we move down to his left foot and the star called Rigel.

Offi cially listed by Bayer as the Beta star,

this blue super giant sun is a tad brighter than Betelgeuse. Astronomers estimate its distance to be about 800 light years from us and if it replaced our Sun in the daytime sky, Rigel would appear 35 degrees wide or 70 full moons lined up in a row. I cannot imagine anything let alone a sun to span one-fi fth of the sky. Rigel is the sixth brightest star in the entire sky and is a natural celestial lighthouse to objects in the area. With that said the Witch Head Nebula located just over the Eridanus, only two degrees west of Rigel and is wonderfully lit by the star’s light.

Catalogued as IC2118, the Witch Head is an old supernova remnant that is diffi cult to observe visually.

A s t r o p h o t o g r a p h y shows us the true face and contour of the Witch Head. Observations from the Spitzer has shown infrared signatures in four of the six previously known T-Tauri stars and

have found six entirely new candidates called young stellar objects (YSOs), one of which may possess an edge-on disk.

Talk about recycling old star stuff.

NGC 1729 is one of the few galaxies that call Orion home. This 1.7 by 1.4 arc minutes is located an estimated 130 million light years away and at 13th magnitude, could pose a bit of a challenge. NGC 1729 can be found in the lower right side of the constellation and is less than two degrees

west of the bright refl ection nebula NGC 1788.

Of course the piece de resistance is the exquisite Orion Nebula.

M42 is readily visible from light polluted suburbs to the tranquil surrounding of the countryside. With dimensions of 45 light years wide and 1,500 away, words are not enough to describe its delicate structure. One must peer through the eyepiece of a telescope to experience the brilliant Trapezium and subtle wings.

Thanks to the sensitive optics of the Hubble Space Telescope, astronomers have photographed new stars with what appears to be developing solar systems in the nebula. These Evaporating Gaseous Globules (EGGs) measuring about 100 astronomical units wide, surround the parent star in a cocoon of dust and gas and hopefully the right stuff to make planets.

The planets are nicely out in full force.

We fi rst have Venus high in the west, beaming brightly at magnitude minus 4. If you still have trouble spotting the planet Uranus, wait till the 9th as Venus will be located a mere .3 degrees north of the solar system’s seventh planet. This is half the width of the full moon so both will fi t nicely in a low power eyepiece. Uranus currently resides 3.1 billion kilometres from Earth and it takes two hours and 52 minutes for

the fuzzy bluish green light to reach us.

Jupiter is now high overhead at sunset and slowly sliding to the west as Venus marches to the east.

On Feb. 1, the two brightest planets were separated by 41 degrees but will shrink to 12 degrees by month’s end. Venus will overtake Jupiter on March 13.

Next we welcome the red planet Mars. The beginning of February sees Mars rising in the east at 9 p.m. local time and at magnitude (-0.6) is clearly the brightest object in that area. As Earth catches up to Mars to the March 3 opposition (-1.2), it will get brighter.

Saturn – the ringed jewel is now creeping over the eastern horizon at midnight local time on the 1st along with the star Spica.

Of the two, Saturn is on the left. It will become stationary on the 8th after which it will begin to slide west

(retrograde motion) with the background stars. This leads into the April 15 opposition when the rings will be tilting nicely 13.7 degrees. Saturn is leading up to be the showpiece of spring and summer.

Until next month, clear skies everyone.


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

REAL ESTATE

of The BattlefordsIndependently Owned and Operated

Wally LorenzSales Associate

1391 - 100th St.North Battleford, SK

S9A 0V9Day or Night

Cell: (306) 843-7898Bus: (306) 446-8800

[email protected]

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

HANDY JIM SERVICES

available to do…• painting & nishing• decks & small buildings• light plumbing• windows & doors• laminate & hardwood oors

• general repairsCall Jim @ 948-3333

BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY

Housing for families and seniors

Rent based on incomeCall: 948-2101

FOR RENT

HOME

IMPROVEMENTS

MADGE CONTRACTING LTD. For all your roo ng needs…

New ConstructionMetalRe-roofsAsphaltShakes

We offer 10 Year Workmanship Warranty and Liability/Torch On InsuranceExcellent Local References

For a FREE estimate please

call… 306-948-5453 306-717-2818www.madgeroo ng.com

Biggar, Sask.

Torch-onTileAll repairs

We tint vehicles too!

For all your glass needs,104 - 2nd Ave. West

Biggar

948-4846

ResidentialCommercialAutomotive

Business & Professional …Business & Professional …

BIGGAR ELECTRICAL &

REFRIGERATION SERVICES

Authorized Appliance DepotElectrical Wiring

TrenchingLicensed Journeyman

Adrian de Haan

948-5291

PHILLIPS ELECTRIC

• Residence• Commercial Wiring

For free estimates Ph: 948-5393

Cell: 306-221-6888

Wylie Farms Ltd. SEED CLEANING

Canadian Seed Institute Accredited Pedigree, Commercial & Custom Cleaning

FULL line of Cleaning Equipment including Gravity Table

Excellent Quality at a Reasonable Price!

For all your Cereal and Pulse Cleaning

Call: 948-2807 orBill: 948-5609Dale: 948-5394

Plant located 8 miles south of Biggar on Hwy #4, ¼ mile

west on Triumph Rd.

McNULTY’S MOBILE SEED

CLEANINGCustom Cleaning of

H.R.S. & C.P. S. WheatPhone: 948-5678

Phoenix M4Mobile Grain

cleaning and sizing

WTSL MOBILE GRAIN SERVICEBox 917, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0

Wayne Dollansky306-948-7247

Custom Combining JD9770

with draper or hydra ex

headers

SEED CLEANING

HEALTH/

WELLNESS

A Sign of

Qualilty!

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

Jerry MucPhone: 948-2958

Fax: 948-5699

Bear Hills Rentals &

Machine Works

Phone: 948-4844Fax: 948-4845

• Machine Shop Service• Rentals• MASTER FEEDS dealer• COMMERCIAL SOLUTION Ag Parts dealer• Drive line parts & service• KANE VET supplier

PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL

Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff

Biggar, Sask.

948-3389

Owners/Operators• Travis Young• Dallas Young• Claude Young

For all your home,business and rural needs

DENTAL

DR. GLENN RIEKMAN

Dentist115 - 1st Ave. W. Rosetown, Sask.

OFFICE HOURSMonday to Thursday

8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Phone: 882-2123

Emergency (after hours) 882-2006

GLASS

INSTALLATION

BIGGAR

DENTAL

CLINIC

306-948-3408

104 - 6th Ave. East, Biggar, Sask.

Southeast entrance of Nova Wood Bldg.

Hours…Monday - Thursday,

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

8 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Cari McCartyResidential Sales

Tim Hammond Realty

Biggar’s Top Performing Residential Agent

113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar

948-5052 (offi ce)Cell 948-7995

www.TimHammond.cahttp://Cari.TimHammond.ca

Licenced for: •Residential

ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT

Bear Hills Rural Development CorporationBox 327Biggar, SKS0K 0M0

Helping you Help yourself

Kent Dubreuil, E.D.O.Phone: 306-948-2295Fax: 306-948-5050

Your Healthy Living

Weight Loss & Wellness Centre

Consultant & CoachAnne G. Livingston

•Ideal Protein Weight Loss Clinic•Epicure Selections•Walden Farms Products•Young Living Essential Oils•Beauticontrol Skin Carewww.beautipage.ca/annelivingstonLocated in Angie’s Hair Salon

219 Main St., BiggarCall 948-7274 or 948-3696

Saskatoon

DUANE NEUFELDTServing BIGGAR and Area

306-948-8055Fax: 306-948-2763

www.DuaneNeufeldt.com

Licensed For:

• Residential

• Acreage

• Farm

Th e sign you want. Th e agent you need.

ELECTRICAL

Call us for…• Insurance jobs• Renovations

• New home building• Drywall & Painting

• Flooring (hardwood, ceramic, etc.)

• Residential/Commercial• Certi ed installer for

Logix ICF

FREE Estimates

Inc.Inc.

Northland FoamingSpray Foam

Insulation306-948-2805

Cell: 306-948-6062Email: [email protected] to insulate your quonset,

farm/commercial buildings, house or cabin?

Lower your heating and cooling costs and add strength

to your buildings!

Without Without Advertising, Advertising,

NothingNothing would would happen!!!happen!!!

Tim Hammond Realty

Dave MolbergBSA

Exposure, Experience and Effort.


948-5052 (offi ce)Cell 948-4478

www.TimHammond.cawww.FarmsofCanada.com

Licenced for: •Farm •Acreage •Residential • Commercial

HOME

IMPROVEMENTS

SEED CLEANING

“The Dream Machine”

Residential & Commercial Paintingcontact…NCM Home Maintenance

- Nick Maguire -

948-3325948-4558 (cell)

orThe Design GoddessThe Design Goddess- Heather Hawkins -

948-3702 948-3702 948-7958 (cell)948-7958 (cell)

MANUFACTURING

Ladies Only 30 min.

Circuit Gym

- together with -

…owned and operated by Diane Larouche Ellard

Located in the Nova Wood Centre

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

948-2208

MANUFACTURING

LightFabrication

MobileWelding

230 - 1st Ave. W., Biggar

Phone: 948-7117email:

[email protected]

CWBCerti ed

Call 948-7274 or 948-3696

Michelle Spuzak, R.M.T. (NHPC member)

~ Gift Certi cates ~Evening, Saturday and in-home

appointments available.948-2548 or 948-9710

Located @ New Begin-nings Wellness Centre, 114 - 2nd Ave. W., BIGGARServices available…

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

Tim Hammond Realty

Tim Hammond, BSA, P.Ag., Broker

Proud to handle Biggar’s Real Estate Needs


948-5052 (offi ce)Cell 948-9168

www.TimHammond.cawww.FarmsofCanada.com

Licenced for: •Farm •Residential •Commercial •Acreage

NEW BEGINNINGS WELLNESS CENTRE

“Putting PERSONALPERSONAL back into fi tness training!”

Wayne Baldwin,CPFT, CPTA, CnHc

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

body sculpting, strength training.

Gift Certifi cates availableVisit us @

114- 2nd Ave. W., BiggarWhere you can feel right at home!

Phone… 948-2548Cell… 948-8048

Offering… One-on-One One-on-One Rehab & Therapy SessionsRehab & Therapy Sessions

* Limited Memberships available to fully equipped

Private Fitness Studio & Cardio Room

MONDAY, FEBRURY 27, 201218 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK

Business & ProfessionalBusiness & ProfessionalLEGAL SERVICES

BUSSE LAWPROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

Barristers & Solicitors

OPTOMETRISTS

BIGGAR ACCOUNTING

SERVICESGarry A. Faye

Chartered AccountantNotary Public

201B-2nd Ave. WestP. O. Box 1480Biggar, Sask.

Phone: 948-5133

INVESTMENTS

THUR-O CARPET & UPHOLSTERY

CLEANINGCliff ForsythBox 736, Biggar

Phone: 948-5600

BIGGAR COURIER• Biggar to Saskatoon• Same day Service• Monday to Friday

• 24-hour Answering Service~Brian and Cathy Fick~

Cell: 306-948-7524

HONEYBEE SEPTIC TANK

SERVICEBob Kobelsky

658-4474, Landis, SK

Let Vortex protect your

truck and your invest-ment with the Vortex Seamless Sprayed on Liner System

306-882-2289

Prairieland Collision

Rosetown, Sask.

AUTOMOTIVE

Roe & Companyis a full service law offi ce

that practices… Family and Criminal law Commercial law Real Estate Wills and Estate,

andour lawyers,

William Roe, Q.C. Jason PeszkoIan MokurukTreena Sikora Lisa WatsonSheri Woods

look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:

306-948-5352 or 306-244-9865

Residential Commercial AutomotiveFor FREE estimates or enquiries CALL

Wayne or Dorothy at 948-5678

Rockin D Trucking & Cattle

• Cattle hauling with 21 ft. gooseneck trailer

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

semi-trailers• also buying and selling

straw and forage• also machinery haulingHome • 306-948-2037 Alex • 306-948-7291 Dan • 306-948-7843

Biggar, Sask.

SERVICES

WINE, BEER, COOLER KITSWINE, BEER, COOLER KITS and and SUPPLIES SUPPLIES available at available at Grape MomentsGrape Moments

located in The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggarlocated in The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar

948-3344948-3344

Battery ChargersElectric FencersRepaired/Rebuilt/ Built

Phillips Radio Shop109 Main St., Biggar

Phone: 948-2442Fax: 948-2484

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

Service TruckFull Mechanical ServiceMon - Fri • 8 a.m.-5 p.m.phone: George

948-3376

KRF Automotive Detail Centre

100% handwash“Where we do it all for you!!”• Detailing• Vortex Spray-In Box Liners• Granitex Baked-on Coatings for Decks and Cement Flooring• Auto Accessories• Trailer Rentals

Owned & operated by Kevin Fick

227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar

948-1722

Ivan

Young,BiggarTree services

available…• cut trim and removal• landscaping• trenching• holes for piles• basements

• post holes• cement removal• driveways• garage pads

948-3381

MONARCH MEATS

948-3384

• custom slaughter, cut and wrapping

• sausage making, curingand smoking

• sides of Pork & Beef available

Modern Licenced Abbatoir

HARRIS TRUCK SERVICES LTD.

Custom Grain Hauling

306-948-9278Landis, Sask.

Atkinson TruckingLandis, Sask.…For all your Local Grain Hauling Needs

Bailen Atkinson658-4460 or 948-4450

• Jackets • Windsuits

• Shirts • Hunting Gear

• Bunnyhugs • Caps

• Toques • Bags

Sewing & Embroidery

Judy Kahovec:882-4313, Cell 831-7935Carey Krchov: 882-3213

Check out our new website:classicmakings.ca

Judy Kahovec…306-882-4313, cell 831-7935 Carey Krchov…882-3213

The Country Clipper• All Breed Dog Grooming• Boarding Kennels (Bordetella Mandatory)• Pet Supplies• Saleboard for dog and cat related items

For appointments and inquiries, call Janet at

948-2091Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 6 pm.

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

COURIER/HAULING

SERVICES SERVICES

YH Truck, Ag & Auto

• Heavy truck parts• Agriculture parts• Automotive parts & accessorieswww.yhtruckagauto.com521 Main St., Biggar

948-2109

To advertise in this

directory,

please call Urla at

Th e Independent

• 948-3344 •

Th is feature will appear Weekly.

ASK ABOUT OUR SPECIAL

DIRECTORY RATES.

NORTHLAND PAINTING and SANDBLASTING•Texas Gates•Spray Foam Insulation•Sandblasting & Painting•Internal Coatings•Rock Guard Coatings

Mobile UnitsOffi ce: 948-2805Cell: 948-6062email: [email protected]

g

05

ACCOUNTING

M & N REPAIR701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar

948-3996Open Monday-Saturday

Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic

SGI Safety Inspection

Heavy Truck Repair

Auto Repair

TIRES

Your authorized

Panasonic, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Shaw,

Bell, Xplornet Internet Dealer; and Your autho-

rized SaskTel Mobility and High Speed Internet Dealer

BIGGAR LEISURE CENTRE

216 Main St., Biggar

948-3955

1st Ave. West, Biggar

948-2700Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer

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

Sat. • 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

INSURANCE

PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSIFIEDS WORK

…call 948-3344

Photos byPhotos by Jocely Jocelynn

Portraits, Family, Portraits, Family, Weddings & Sports Weddings & Sports

PhotographyPhotographyBiggar, SaskBiggar, Sask..

www.photosbyjocelyn.comwww.photosbyjocelyn.com306-306-948-2814948-2814

Anne G. LivingstonCerti ed Custom Picture Framer

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

Call Anne @ [email protected]

Stuart A. Busse, QCLarry A. Kirk, LL.B.

302 Main Street, Biggar, SK

948-3346…serving your

community since 1972

223 Main StreetBiggar

Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO

OPEN: Mon.-Fri. • 9 a.m.-6 p.m.Saturday • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

948-2183Email: [email protected]: www.hrblock.ca

ADVERTISINGADVERTISING is an is an

investment investment in your business.in your business.

Pssst...Did you hear that you can still buy REGAL?

Contact Nancy Duns Independent Rep

www.sask.shopregal.ca Ph: 237-4777

Email: [email protected]

Wood and Steel Buildings

Floor & Trusses

GEORGE STAHLPh: (306) 948-3776cell: (306) 260-6503

Rebel Landscaping948-2879, evenings948-7207, daytime

Ed Kolenosky

• Driveways• Concrete• Garage Pads• Pruning• Planting

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

• Snow Removal• Fences …and much more

Call me to nd out more about how The Plan™ can help you prosper now …and over time.

JIM VANCHA, PAgConsultant

(306) 948-4393jim.vancha@

investorsgroup.com

BIGGAR INSURANCE

SERVICES• Notary Publics

• Home & Agro Insurance • Auto & Commerical Insurance

• Health Insurance• Motor Licence Issuer

Offi ce Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday

304 Main Street • BiggarPhone: 948-2204 or

948-3886

Financial PlanningEstate PlanningLife Insurance222 Main Street306 948 5377

info@twh nancial.cawww.twh nancial.ca

Kirk EwenDoctor of Optometry

In Biggar Every Tuesday.

Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main Street, Biggar

For appointments… 1-855-651-3311

INSURANCE

AUTOMOTIVE

HAULS TO THE DUMPSmall moves and deliveries

with ½ ton truckPh/fax: 948-3856 or

cell: 948-7896Sales Consultant

J. G. Smith


Report from the Legislature


12025MM02

1-306-948-2446 [email protected] www.kellyblock.ca

KELLY BLOCK MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT SASKATOON-ROSETOWN-BIGGAR Working Hard for You!

Randy Weekes, M.L.A.

for the Biggar Constituency1-877-948-4880

Of ce Hours:Monday - Friday

1 - 5 p.m.Phone: 306-948-4880

106 - 3rd Ave. West, BiggarFax: 306-948-4882

e-mail:[email protected] site:

www.randyweekes.caP. O. Box 1413

Biggar, SK. S0K 0M0

by Randy Weekes, MLA, Biggar(16 February, 2012)Surgical wait times are down again, as our gov-ernment continues mak-ing progress towards its goal of no one waiting more than three months for surgery by 2014.

New statistics updated to the end of last Decem-ber show the number of patients waiting more than 18 months is down 89 per cent from where it was in 2007.

The number of people waiting more than 12 months is down 76 per cent.

Over the last fi ve years, our government has in-stituted several new ini-tiatives that have played a role in this reduction, including; using private surgical clinics within the public system; to re-cruiting more doctors and nurses; and expanding training opportunities for medical students.

During the recent cam-paign, one of the promises we made was to continue to manage the province’s fi nances in such way that our economy remains strong and growing. I am happy to report today that this year’s budget remains balanced despite historic fl ooding last year. Due to the strength of the Saskatchewan economy and our current prosper-ity, our government was able to provide assistance to the many Saskatch-ewan families affected by fl ooding.

In spite of that, we will finish this year with a balanced budget, further reduce the provincial debt and retain a balance

of more than $700 million the provincial savings account.

It’s not often that an announcement halfway around the world affects Saskatchewan directly - unless you control close to 20 per cent of the global resource involved. The federal government an-nounced recently that it had signed a $3 billion deal which will see China buy Canadian uranium.

That directly affects our province; due to the fact all of the uranium production in Canada comes from Saskatch-ewan mines. Uranium mining pumps hundreds of millions of dollars into the Saskatchewan econ-omy each year through expansion, salaries, taxes and royalties.

Saskatchewan Water-shed Authority is looking for average to below aver-age runoff, which means a low risk of flooding. However, in some areas, with a high carryover of water there could still be flood issues. Signifi-cant late winter or spring storms could increase risk of fl ooding.

That being said, this is the fi rst forecast issued for 2012, and SWA will continue to monitor the spring melt. If we do have fl ooding issues the province will provide as-sistance through PDAP.

Our government re-mains committed to en-suring Saskatchewan families are safe and secure in the event of job action by important service providers such as nurses or snowplow operators. In light of the recent court ruling on our

Essential Services law, which upheld the need for such legislation, we will work with the organized labour to fi nd the right balance that protects you and your family.

To that end, we have asked the Saskatchewan

Federation of Labour for written input which we hope to receive by the start of the spring session of the Legislature.

We have made it eas-ier than ever to plan your summer vacation at a Provincial Park. This

year we have expanded the 14-night maximum stay during peak season to more parks, and made all camp sites open for either walk-up or reser-vation. Beginning at 8 a.m. CST on March 12, 2012, reservations can be

made in real-time for 24 parks through their Web site or by calling 1-855-737-7275.

If you have a question about this Legislative re-port or any other matter, just contact Randy.

Saskatchewan retail sales and wholesale trade set a double record in De-cember 2011 - posting the highest-ever fi gures for the month of December and the highest annual totals in the province’s history.

“Setting these new re-cords shows that Sas-katchewan’s economy continues to lead the country,” Enterprise Min-ister Jeremy Harrison said. “These records re-fl ect the economic climate of growth, opportunity and optimism that exists in Saskatchewan. At the end of the day that means we’re creating more jobs and opportunities across the province, making families confi dent in their future here.”

Saskatchewan expe-rienced monthly retail sales of $1.6 billion (sea-sonally-unadjusted) in December, putting the total sales fi gure for 2011 at $16.3 billion. Likewise Saskatchewan’s whole-sale trade at $1.6 billion

Saskatchewan’s retail sales and wholesale trade set double records in 2011

(seasonally-unadjusted) also set a new record for the month of Decem-ber with total wholesale trade at $21.4 billion (seasonally-unadjusted) for 2011. These numbers are the highest ever in Saskatchewan for these economic categories.

In December 2011, com-pared to December 2010, wholesale trade was up by 13.0 per cent (season-ally-adjusted), ranking Saskatchewan second among the provinces. For the year compared

to 2010, wholesale trade was up by 21.8 per cent (seasonally-unadjusted), good for fi rst in percent-age growth among the provinces.

In terms of retail sales, numbers were up by 9.5 per cent (seasonally-ad-justed) from December 2010 to December 2011, placing Saskatchewan second in percentage growth among the prov-inces. On a seasonally-unadjusted basis, retail sales in Saskatchewan increased by 8.5 per cent

in 2011 compared to 2010, again ranking fi rst in percentage change among the provinces.

Deadline for

classifieds Wednesday

at 5 p.m.


12025MF00

Documents

issue 9