BCS Seniors awarded Sportsmanship Award ... A happy group of Biggar Central School 2000 Senior Boys Volleyball squad members pose for a selfie, February 13 during the awarding of the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association (SHSAA) Sportsmanship Award (top picture). The SHSAA’S Jeff Kitts (below, left) addresses the school as team members line up for the presentation. See Page 3 for more. (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
Biggar U15 National Outlaws hit the ice for Game 2 of their provincial U15C playoff round versus the Maidstone Jets, February 13 at the Jube. While the Nat Outlaws played well on the night, they still fell 8-3 against a powerful Jets team, ending their provincial journey. (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
Blazer Senior Volleyball Boys recognized for Sportsmanship
by Kevin Brautigam for The
Independent
The Biggar Central School 2000 Senior Boys Volleyball team is an impressive group of young men.
The team was recently awarded the prestigious SHSAA (Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association) Sportsmanship Award.
The Green and Gold represented Biggar well. So well, in fact, that they were nominated by a competitor from Assiniboia in October 2024 - a very rare acknowledgement. Yearly, most teams are never awarded or even acknowledged until the the provincial championship.
The Blazers attended the SHSAA 3A Boys Provincial Championships in Esterhazy in 2025, and their never-quit attitude, always supporting one another, continued to impress.
They played against some pretty stiff competition, but they never wavered, never blamed a bad call or one
by Dale Buxton
of The Independent Kind of has a nice ring to it doesn’t it.
Biggar Town Council, along with members of the recreation board, met with many interested people of the general public meeting last Wednesday, February 12 at the Community Hall to begin a conversation of possibly building a new recreational complex in
another - something that was noticed by other teams. In fact, other teams really wanted to play the Blazers - their competitiveness and sportsmanship drove other teams to excellence.
“I’ve had numerous coaches from that weekend, e-mail me commending this team and the respect for this group,” said the SHSAA Assistant Executive Director Jeff Kitts, who was in Biggar for the official award this past Thursday. “They mentioned how intense the games were when Biggar was playing, but how notable the behaviour of the team and bench was throughout the competition.”
The Blazers were a tightknit group of teammates, friends.
“When it came to our season, I really wanted us to go all they way to provincials because I thought this team deserved so much - they worked so hard. I wanted to show them off to everybody,” said Blazer Coach Chase Samuel, who along with fellow
coach Amy Arnal, guided the group through the year.
“Biggar brought enthusiasm, great energy and a sense of camaraderie to the threeday boys provincial championship,” said SHSAA board member Angelin Comfort. “It was very obvious that they
were grateful to be taking part in the competition, and expressed that through their respect of their opponents and the officials. Their school and their community should be very proud of how their team represented them as they were a great example of what the SHSAA Sportsmanship
Award is all about.”
“From a coaches perspective, obviously sportsmanship is super important. It’s important when nobody is watching,” said Coach Samuel. “I know they are always listening, they’re always being very perceptive and they are being very respectful of
me and of each other.” Samuel said that he’s had coaches, parents, opposition players, come up to him expressing how much they loved playing this Senior Blazer group.
“That means so much to me ... the character of these boys gets to live on forever on this banner,” insisted Samuel.
Biggar’s New Apple
the Town of Biggar. Like most other smaller towns in Saskatchewan, recreation facilities do wear out or become so old that money to rebuild or fix becomes costly. In the case of the Biggar curling rink, this facility has become condemned and can no longer host events, therefore the curling rink needs to be replaced.
The 70 year old Biggar
Jubilee Stadium is in good shape, but how long before you look at its replacement? And the Community Hall, still holding events 30 years into its life? What about the Biggar Aquatic Centre?
There was over 150 people in attendance on a very cold evening to listen to what the Town Council had to say about the possibilities of
Dome?
building a new facility. Tables were divided so that everyone had the opportunity to discuss and write down ideas as to what a new facility would look like and what would be included in a new recreational facility. There were ideas like a new indoor swimming pool, a track, a soccer field, expanded daycare, pickleball court, an auditorium with stage
What do you want in a new recreation facility? With the Biggar Curling Rink condemned, area residents are being asked to help in the planning process for a future facility that could include a new skating/hockey/ curling rink or something that could be more. The meeting was held February 12. (Independent
Buxton)
and seating for stage shows, a gym, even a golf simulator, and this all goes with a new skating rink and new curling rink.
The ideas and possibilities are endless on what you could have as a recreational facility.
The next questions that were brought up is where this facility could be built in Biggar and still be within the town boundaries.
Another question that arose was how could the community pay the operation of such a facility, would it be a combination of volunteer and town employees?
The most important question that came up was how Biggar as a community would pay for building such a facility.
It is a known fact that the more you add the more the cost and would you leave this cost on the backs of the taxpayer?
There may be federal and provincial grants available to help offset
the costs of building a recreation complex, but grants wouldn’t cover the whole cost, so therefore the money has to come from somewhere. Would it be possible for all rural municipalities along with town council to engineer a fair taxing system so that each person is paying their fair share?
Another discussion that did come up was if there was a new recreation complex would it lead to more people calling Biggar home and would it lead to more business and employment?
So many questions that need to be answered before you can even move into the next steps, but it is sure nice to dream of the possibilities of what a new recreation complex could look like.
Stay tuned as there will be more in the near future about this could look like, you can review some of the meeting on the Town of Biggar website.
Photo by Dale
Playing on a Blue Card
In no particular order, BCS Senior Boys Volleyball team: Corbin Neugebauer, R.J. Dalisay, Andrés Fullentes, Aiden Fecht, Kieran Massie, Gerald Labadan, Noah Park, Caleb Hardenne, Eric Esteva, Vlademir Villanueva, Curtis Benhegy-Cook, Head Coach Chase Samuel, Assistant Coach Amy Arnal, along with SHSAA Assistant Executive Director Jeff Kitts. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
by Kris Sims, Canadian Taxpayers Federation
Liberal leadership candidate Mark Carney seems to think giving you a discount code on a new furnace or some extra insulation is the best way to help with affordability.
And he’s going to pay for those discounts by hitting businesses like fuel refineries and power plants with a hidden carbon tax. Of course, those businesses will just pass on the cost.
Bottom line: You still get hit with that hidden carbon tax when you buy gas or pay your bills. But it gets worse.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at least attempted to give you some of the carbon tax money back through rebates. The parliamentary budget officer consistently made it clear the rebates don’t cover all the costs. But at least you could spend the money on the things you need most.
Under Carney’s “affordability” plan, you don’t get cash to pay down your credit card or buy groceries. You can only use the credits to buy things like e-bikes and heat pumps.
Here’s how Carney
by Robert Nelly
The reasons for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigning have now been made irrelevant, since he stepped down because of his drop in support.
However, the EKOS polling firm, which gave Trudeau a lousy 19.4 per cent level of support only three days after the traitor Chystia Freeland resigned, now gives Trudeau 32 per cent, only 1.9 per cent less than his rival Pierre Pollievre. If the election were called today, it would be a toss-up. It’s any man’s game. Other polls are also showing Trudeau is nearly tied with Pollievre. Furthermore, Donald Trump has backed away from his threats so there is no need to send Freeland over there, which was the original reason that Trudeau gave for demoting this unappreciative, backstabbing ingrate.
Actually, all of the Liberal leadership candidates are campaigning Right-ofCentre, and absolutely none will continue Trudeau’s legacy, which
explained it:
“We will have the big polluters pay for climate incentives by developing and integrating a new consumer carbon credit market into the industrial pricing system,” Carney told a Halifax crowd. “While we still provide price certainty for households when they make climate smart choices.”
Translation: Carney would still make Canadians pay, but he’ll only help them with affordability if they’re making “smart” choices.
Sound familiar? This is a lot like the scheme former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole ran on. And it ended his political career.
Carney’s carbon tax plan is terrible for two reasons.
First, it’s sneaky. Carney wants to hide the cost of the carbon tax. A power plant running on natural gas is not going to eat the cost of Carney’s carbon tax; it will pass that expense down to ordinary people who are paying the bills.
Second, as anemic as the Trudeau government rebates are, at least Canadians could use the money for the things
is another reason that Trudeau should place no faith in any of these candidates. Specifically, Freeland stated in her resignation letter that she opposed Trudeau’s promise of $250 cheques to working Canadians who earned $150,000 or less in 2023. Freeland referred to the proposal as a “costly political gimmick” and argued that the Canadian government should “[keep] our fiscal powder dry today, so we have the reserves we may need for a coming tariff war.”
Furthermore, leadership contender and banker Mark Carney, from the corporate world, will not be any more left than Freeland. Trudeau has a right to simply dismiss the current race since no one is really promising to carry his mantle and legacy. If he carries through with his resignation, all of the many social programs that he has advanced (dental care, child care) will risk being cut by the next Liberal government. There is no Trudeauesque alternative, and he simply has
they need most. It’s cash they can put toward the next heating bill, buy a pair of winter boots, or pay for birthday party decorations.
That kind of messy freedom makes some central planning politicians twitchy.
Here’s the thing: half of Canadians are broke, and a discount on a new Tesla probably won’t solve their problems.
About 50 per cent are within $200 each month of not being able to make the minimum payments on their bills.
With the cost of groceries up $800 this year for a family of four, people are watching flyers for peanut butter. Food banks have record demand.
Yet, Carney wants Canadians to keep paying the carbon tax while blindfolded and then send thank-you cards when they get a few bucks off on a solar panel they can’t afford.
Clearly, the architects of Carney’s plan haven’t spent many sleepless nights worrying about paying rent.
One of Carney’s recent gigs was as governor of the Bank of England, where he was paid $862,000
the right to delay the leadership race until such a candidate presents itself, to reopen the nomination process. Some may question Trudeau’s ability to cancel his own “scheduled” resignation. First of all in Canadian law there is no such thing as a “scheduled” resignation. Rather, you are either Prime Minister or you are not. If you are Prime Minister it is because the Governor General believes that the majority of Parliament has given you their support on confidence votes.
While Trudeau has told the Governor General he will be resigning once a new Liberal Leader is in place, he can theoretically renege on this promise. Then, if he is powerful enough politically in his party, he can attempt to have his henchman in the party cancel the current Leadership election. Or, he can go to the Governor General now and ask for Parliament to be dissolved and for an election to be called. The Governor General is under no obligation to
per year plus a $449,000 housing allowance.
With ermine earmuffs that thick, it’s hard to hear people’s worries.
About a thousand Canadians recently posted home heating bills online.
Kelly’s family in northern Ontario paid $134 in carbon tax for December’s home heating. Lilly’s household bill near Winnipeg was $140 in carbon tax.
The average Alberta household will pay about $440 extra in carbon tax on home heating this year.
wait until a new Liberal Leader is elected, because the Prime Minister still has the prerogative to dissolve parliament and call election when he so wishes, and Trudeau is still Prime Minister. If such an election were to occur immediately, quite possibly the Liberal executive could vote to stall the Liberal leadership vote, as their constitution allows for that to happen, and thus the date could be stalled until after the election is finished.
Naturally, if Trudeau is re-elected for a fourth time, that Liberal Leadership race can be delayed even further, another two or four years, while Trudeau as the current Leader of the Liberal Party (or is he Interim Leader) remains Prime Minister.
Trudeau has given only one reason for his resigning, and that is because of the infighting. Sure, if he cancelled the Liberal Leadership Race, he would face a lot of backlash, but if he dissolves parliament first and calls an election, all of those
INDEPENDENT
After the carbon tax is hiked April 1, it will add an extra 21 cents per litre of gasoline and 25 cents per litre of diesel. Filling a minivan will cost about $15 extra, filling a pickup truck will cost about $25 extra, and a trucker filling a big rig will have to pay about $250 extra in carbon tax.
Trudeau’s carbon tax data is posted online. Carney’s carbon tax would be hidden.
Carney isn’t saying the carbon tax is an unfair punishment for Canadians trying to drive to work and heat
treacherous Liberal MPs would be forced to start campaigning in their riding and not spend time humiliating Trudeau.
Even if he decides to simply delay the Leadership race vote so that he can be in Parliament when it resumes seating, he could allow himself to lose the confidence of the House in a vote so that an election can be called. It’s really up to him, if he can stand up to his ungrateful bullies, those Liberal MPs who owe their jobs to Justin Trudeau exclusively and conclusively.
Also, even if Trudeau were to win less seats than Pierre Pollievre in a minority government situation, there would be no obligation for Trudeau to resign if the Governor General were to let him first try to show if he can continue with the confidence of Parliament. That is, if Trudeau can make a deal with the NDP, Greens or Bloc should Pollievre receive more seats than Trudeau in a minority government, he can hold on to power.
their homes. He says the problem is “perception.” “It has become very divisive for Canadians,” Carney told his Halifax crowd about the carbon tax. “It’s the perceptions of the negative impacts of the carbon tax on households, without fully recognizing the positive impacts of the rebate.” Carney isn’t trying to fix the problem. He’s trying to hide it. And he wants Canadians to be happy with discount codes on “smart” purchases instead of cash.
This is because the NDP, Greens and Bloc tend to be left-of-centre or centrist and thus naturally gravitate to Trudeau. While the Conservatives cannot depend on any rightleaning parties like Joe Clark would have in 1979 with the Social Credit Party’s support. Ask yourself, why has Trudeau now lead the longest (or second longest) minority government in history? It’s because firstly the left/centre parties don’t want to risk putting Pollievre into power, and secondly because they know that Trudeau will cream them as he has won three elections in a row. Also because Trudeau knows how to work with the other parties to give them what they want in exchange for their vote. Therefore, Trudeau has a path forward if he wants to stay on and lead the country some more. He should delay or cancel the Leadership race, and call an election if necessary, now or after parliament resumes.
Far be it from the writer to pretend that this, or any other huge printing could ever contain a complete collection of humorous political jokes!
There doesn’t seem any end to them - and hopefully there never will be. Our - or any other political scene - is bound to present over and over the serious side of society (pretty good alliteration, eh?). And maybe that is why, as more or less helpless standby peasants, we have come to really value the political joke!
“P-s-s-s-t!” they say. “Did you hear the one about ...” and a lot of them are really funny! But is that all that humour is a about?
Maybe I’m wrong, or as some folks see it, probably am! But to me, humour, however shallow, spontaneously presented (alliteration again!) when some distraction from the pressures of the times is
really needed, takes on and is enhanced by a far, far greater meaning and usefulness. We can vote and vote all we want, and spend much of our energy and enthusiasm in an effort to gain this political goal or that. And in the process build up a tension that can only be lessened one way - hence the political joke. Bear with these political people who have made the wisecracks listed below.
• John Diefenbaker at the grand opening of the South Saskatchewan Dam: “I wanted them to name the Dam after me, but no, they called the body of water formed by it, ‘Lake Diefenbaker’, and when my political opponents come out West, I always ask them to ‘drop in!’”
• I understand that Kim Campbell (our former Prime Minister) has written a book on reducing, named “How to lose your seat in fortyfive days!”
• Opposition: “Is it true that the honourable member is very indecisive about these things?”
Honourable member: “Well ... yes and no!”
• And the one about the member of Parliament up north:
Heckler: “John, you are so low you could crawl under a snake!”
John (a politician): “Lay down and I’ll try it!”
• Or again: Heckler: “Tell them
Humour and Politics
everything you know, John! It sure won’t take very long!”
• MLA: “So you’re from up north of here, eh? Do you know my old friend Bill Smith? He’s your MP!”
Other Guy: “Know him! I am Bill Smith!”
• Tucker (all 250-pounds of him): “Douglas, you little pup. I could eat you in one gulp!”
T.C. (Douglas ... not very big): “If you did, you’d have more brains in your stomach than you ever had in your head!”
• Years ago, Dad told me of a political meeting he attended in Battleford before Saskatchewan became a province. Senator “So and So” made a long, long speech in support of a candidate. When he was done, a little foreigner (also a candidate) got up and said, “Dear pipple. I am no spikker, I am a werker!” sat down ... and got elected!
• In an article Y.T. was reading recently, it referred to a fellow who was carving wooden horse heads. He claimed he was sending them to Ottawa for final assembly.
• They say that when Winston Churchill was going around making his famous V sign (for Victory) he was followed by a politician also making a V sign (for votes).
• One politician at a farm rally made a speech while standing on a
manure spreader. He claimed it was the first time he had spoken from the oppositions platform!
• They tell me that one well-known politician and his entire entourage entered a cafe in Hull. He ordered a t-bone steak. When asked about the vegetables, he said that they’d have what he had!
• One member of parliament always started his speeches with his very poor French. After a while he would say that for those who weren’t bilingual, he would conclude his remarks in English!
• One political speechmaker asked of the folks at the back of the room if they could hear him.
“No!” hollered a fellow from the back.
“Good!”said a fellow in the front row. “I’ll trade places!”
• It may be darn near slander, but one MP said that the three toughest years his opponents had were in Grade 1!
• A politician went to a ranching town and said that his party was by far the best, or he was a horses hind end! After a guy hit him, he finally came to and announced, “Maybe this isn’t my parties country after all!”
“To heck with your party,” said the slugger. “This is horse country!”
• There was a report that after a boy had saved his life, a B.P. (Big Politician) offered him anything he
RCMP lay 64 charges against three in bank robbery and string of ATM thefts
North Battleford RCMP’s Provincial General Investigation Section (GIS) have laid 64 charges against three people in connection to a Landis bank robbery on November 22, as well as a string of ATM thefts, and attempted thefts, that took place across South and Central Saskatchewan between November 22, 2024 and January 1, 2025.
RCMP Provincial GIS’ investigation included widespread coordination across many frontline detachments, police units and Crime Stoppers, to connect incidents reported in the communities of: Dodsland, Rosetown, Gull Lake, Lemberg, Wolseley, Craven, Neilburg, Marshall, Battleford, Perdue, and Mosquito, Grizzly Bear’s Head, Lean Man First Nation.
“Complex investigations like this involve extensive resources and largescale coordination across multiple detachment areas,” says Sgt. Adam Buckingham, Officer in Charge, North Battleford Provincial GIS. “The sheer number of crimes solved in this investigation really highlights the successful collaboration between support units of the RCMP
and front-line officers.”
RCMP-coordinated efforts led police to a residence in Biggar, where officers with North Battleford Provincial GIS, Crime Reduction Team (CRT) and Biggar Detachment, executed a search warrant on February 5. At the residence, officers located and seized items believed to be connected to the ATM occurrences and Landis bank robbery. As a result of investigation 36-year old Sheena Benoit and 33-year old Joshua Meszaros were arrested at the time of the search.
As a result of further investigation, Sheena Benoit (AKA: Sheena Harrabek) faces 16 charges including:
• three counts, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1) (b), Criminal Code;
• one count, theft over $5,000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code;
• six counts, theft under $5,000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code;
• six counts, mischief damage to property of a value over $5,000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code.
Joshua Meszaros faces 24 charges including:
• three counts, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1) (b), Criminal Code;
• one count, break and enter with intent to commit an offence, Section 348(1)(a), Criminal Code;
• seven counts, disguised with intent to commit an offence, Section 351(2), Criminal Code;
• one count, theft over $5,000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code;
• six counts, theft under $5,000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code;
• five counts, mischief/ damage to property of a value over $5,000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code;
• one count, mischief/ damage to property of a value under $5,000, Section 430(4), Criminal Code.
A third suspect, 48-year-old Jeremy Seery of Rosetown was arrested on February 12, 2025 and faces 24 charges including:
• one count, break and enter and commit an offence, Section 348(1) (b), Criminal Code;
• two counts, break and enter with intent to commit an offence, Section 348(1)(a);
“A state funeral,” said the boy, “because when Dad hears that I saved our life, he’ll kill me!”
There’s no end to political stores and jokes, and in a way I think they are a benefit, at least we have something to laugh at instead of crying about!”
One fellow was heard to say one time, “Y’know ... that guy never lifted a finger to help the country until he gave that ‘up
yours’ sign!” I think that political humour is good press. Mr. Stanfield [Editor’s note: Robert Lorne Stanfield, Canadian politician, 17th premier of Nova Scotia (1956-67), Leader of the Official Opposition and leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada (1967-76)] says he always got bad press, for even if he walked on water, they’d report that it was because he couldn’t swim!
• one count, robbery with other offensive weapon, Section 344, Criminal Code;
• seven counts, disguised with intent to commit an offence, Section 351(2), Criminal Code;
• one count, theft over $5,000, Section 334(a), Criminal Code;
• six counts, theft under $5,000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code;
• six counts, mischief/ damage to property of a value over $5,000, Section 430(3), Criminal Code.
Joshua Meszaros and Sheena Benoit are scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 7 at 2 p.m.
Jeremy Seery is scheduled to appear in North Battleford Provincial Court on April 14 at 9:30 a.m.
If have information about these or any other crime, contact Saskatchewan RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or saskcrimestoppers.com
Biggar RCMP report
by Cst. Chad Mehl, Biggar Detachment
Despite the extreme cold, over the past week Biggar RCMP received 18 calls of service some of which were general calls of service and resolved relatively quickly.
The highlight of the past week was that on February 12, at 12:30 a.m., a white pickup truck was observed on surveillance footage at the Duperow Co-op yard in the outskirts of Biggar.
The padlocks to the main gate were cut off and one of two occupants exited the truck and attempted unsuccessfully to steal fuel at the location. After giving up, the truck drove off. The suspect was wearing a bright yellow or bright light-green winter jacket and blue-green or teal pants. Surveillance footage is being analyzed to determine identity of the truck and suspects.
Two fraud complaints, two false alarms, and suspicious traffic were reported in the area and followed up with. On February 14, there was a report of a red swerving SUV on Highway 14 near Perdue, but Biggar RCMP were unable to intercept
the vehicle.
Speaking of traffic offences, RCMP Traffic Services’ productivity in and around Biggar were high over the past week. This included 12 tickets relating to speeding, seatbelt, no vehicle insurance, and cannabis use in a motor vehicle offences and 12 formal warnings.
On February 15, at 7:30 a.m. there was a shoplifting of a bottle alcohol from the Biggar Esso Convenience store from a male suspect dressed in all black winter clothing. This was the third incident of the theft of alcohol from the Esso over the past week. Thanks to the quality surveillance footage at the business, in the previous two thefts, suspects were positively identified. Continuing efforts are being made to examine surveillance footage of the February 15 theft to identify the most recent suspect. Thanks to the assistance of the public, surveillance and security cameras can be a valuable tool in the positive outcome of police investigations.
Bob Mason Notable Notes
Ask The Money Lady
Dear Money Lady, I went to my RBC Bank to get approved for a mortgage on our new home purchase but was really surprised when they ended up giving me a mortgage from a
completely different mortgage company. Is this some sort of scam?
Jamie I am sure it is fine Jamie. Perhaps you may not have qualified under the traditional banking model, so they outsourced it to a partner. This is a standard practice in the industry, so let’s review how this works. There are three main levels of lending in Canada: A, B, and C lenders.
The A lenders are the largest banks (like TD, RBC, BNS, BMO and CIBC) which have most of the market share across the country. They are the movers and shakers of the banking world and always tend to move in
tandem when raising and lowering rates. Their stock is traded worldwide, and they are generally considered the foundational backbone of our financial system. Their lending practices are virtually the same across all channels and if you are declined by one of them, you most probably will be declined by them all.
The B lenders are the smaller banks and credit unions. They normally specialize in clients with unique lending requirements and provide products to clients who do not fit into a typical lending or credit criteria. These lenders are an alternative source for clients, and they
usually partner with all the big banks for spinoff business.
You see, A lenders have become very creative in ensuring that they do not lose clients when they decline a deal. By partnering with B lenders, the big banks have found that they can now give the client an approval through their alternative lending channels or alternative mortgage services, (AMS). This approval is from the partnering B lender, but because of this alignment, the client will still get all the personal banking services and promotional offers from the big bank or A lender. The A lender receives a partnering
fee from the smaller B lender and still retains the client relationship for the future.
This is a win-win for all parties. Due to the large volume of referrals to the partnering B lenders, clients usually get a lower rate and a better offer than if they went to a B lender on their own or through an independent broker.
RBC will need to disclose their relationship with their AMS partner and will ask on their behalf to close your mortgage. You have nothing to worry about, this is done all the time with the Big Five Banks. Congrats on your new home.
By the way, a C lender is usually an alternative
lender for those clients who have particularly bad credit or very unique situations. C lenders will always be attained through a mortgage broker and the deal will typically have many fees associated with it to close - it may even be a private lender, investor group or law firm that underwrites the deal.
Good luck and best wishes!
Written by Christine Ibbotson, author, finance writer, syndicated national radio host, and now on BNN Bloomberg News, and CTV News. Send your money questions (answered free) through her website at info@ askthemoneylady.ca
Prairie Sons bringing Canadian West to Majestic
Classical up and comers, Prairie Sons comes to the Majestic Theatre this February 25 for the next performance in the Biggar and District Arts Council concert season.
Prairie Sons, cellist David Liam Roberts and pianist Godwin Friesen, embody the expansive, nuanced perspective of their home landscape in
their concert program. Perhaps it is the sense of space, the living skies and the clear view to the edge of the horizon that breeds artistry in those who live in the Canadian West.
The two award-winning musicians met at the Royal Conservatory’s Glenn Gould School of Music, and recognized a kindred spirit in each
other. Both hail from the Prairies, began performing alongside other members of their families, and have been named to CBC’s list of Hot 30 Classical Musicians Under 30.
The energy and innovation of the Prairie Sons invites you to take a fresh look at a familiar landscape, and to witness
the miracle in the everyday.
Prairie Sons is at the Majestic Theatre for the sixth show in the Biggar and District Arts Council concert season this Tuesday, February 25, show time at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale from Ross Holt at de Moissac Jewellers or from ticketpro.ca
Christine Ibbotson
25024GE0
One day to say thank you to Canadian farmers
by Calvin Daniels
In case you missed itand it is likely most you would have - Canada’s Agriculture Day took place across Canada on February 11.
Now to be fair, thanks to the ill winds blowing out of Washington, thanks to near daily nonsense propagated by United States president Donald Trump, it has been difficult to consider much beyond just how irreparable the damage will be after four years of his power hungry administration.
In Canada we see the immediate threat of tariffs, but when you read snippets about some militia gang in the US saying it could take over Canada in no time - the security of the nation starts to be questioneda question we in Canada
must be sharing with those in Greenland/ Denmark and Panama and the Gaza Strip and frankly the world in general with such a loose cannon president at the helm of formidable military and his finger on the button as they say.
So a day focused on agriculture could easily be pushed to the backburner this year.
But, it is important too to put some focus on a sector which is at the end of the day the world’s most important. If farmers don’t farm the rest of us will largely go very hungry.
In fact that is probably the biggest long term concern for agriculture, how does it continue to increase food production to feed a world population that shows little sign of doing anything but growing steadily larger.
Sure a better and fairer distribution of the food currently produced to those who are going hungry would alleviate things greatly but a look at the world politically today there is little hope for such widespread fairness.
Here in Canada agriculture remains a hugely important
economic sector, one even more recognizable here in Saskatchewan and the Prairies.
Farmers in Canada do an outstanding job producing healthy and nutritious food with an eye to maintaining a sustainable industry to ensure its future.
So when one checked out the Canadian Federation of Agriculture web page (cfa-fca.ca), the line “let’s raise a fork to the food we love and the people who produce it” in relation to the day, it hit the mark nicely.
And, when Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food states “on Canada’s Agriculture Day, we recognize all of our Canadian farmers and celebrate the great work they do. Canada is a world leader when it comes to agriculture, with a strong food system that is supported by dedicated farmers who work yearround to put top-quality food on our tables,” it too resonates.
The ag sector’s importance cannot be understated, and certainly producers and those who support their efforts deserve our collective thanks.
Kim Gartner
Butcher, Baker & The Candlestick Maker
MAINSTREET MARKET
has positions open for a Baker and Butcher Apply Within with Resume 115 Main Street, Biggar
Calvin Daniels Agriculture
Monday - Friday, 9:00 - 5:00
Tel: 306-882-4105
Fax: 306-882-4108
Toll Free: 1-855-762-2233
The Saskatchewan Traveller ... Nova Scotia Edition by Trudy and Dale Buxton
We had a fantastic visit in Berwick and its time to get back on the road heading back up the road on Highway 1 we come to the village of Waterville, population of 700.
people, and for Waterville and all of Kings County they are one of the largest employers in the area, next to the CFB Greenwood Air Force Base which employs more people.
Do
E-mail: jimreitermla@sasktel.net Box 278, Rosetown SK S0L 2V0
Waterville is small in size but very large in community presence. It is home to a Michelin tire plant.
Michelin has three tire plants in Nova Scotia: New Glasgow, Bridgewater and Waterville. Altogether Michelin employs 3,600
Use the QR code and check out the music & Albums at Ray’s Vinyl
Cabaret Cabaret
Waterville came from humble beginnings dating back into the 1600’s when the French settled in Port Royal and later in Grand Pre.
The Mi’kmaq, who were already settled in their territory, lived in harmony with the French until the expulsion of the Acadians in the mid 1700’s when all the land was given away to New Englanders.
Originally called the Pineo Village because of its proximity to the Cornwallis River and other waterways that came into the area, the name was changed to Waterville in the late 1800’s when the railway came, mainly because of the abundance of waterways.
Waterville is also home to the only youth correctional centre in Nova Scotia. This youth centre was built on response to the young offenders act in 1984
area. Hockey was played in the early 1900’s with a few championship teams, while the Waterville Mohawks were inducted into the Nova Scotia Hall of Fame for their championship teams in the sport of softball. The team was the Nova Scotia and PEI champions.
Travelling up the road we come to the community of Coldbrook, population of around 2,900 people. The community was known as Coldbrook Station when the railway came through and just shortened to Coldbrook in the late 1800’s.
Coldbrook is the fastest growing population in the Annapolis Valley with a population increase over 90 per cent since the mid 1980’s.
Companies built a couple of large warehouses including a processing plant in 1946. The name later changes to Scotia Gold which is today one of the largest employers in the area.
If you’re into a neat camping experience, Coldbrook is home to the Sherwood Forest which is surrounded by a luscious pine forest, offering over 200 camping sites. For free hay rides, you have to chat with Robin Hood and his Merry Men. Also near Coldbrook is a hobby horse farm where you can ride on one of the groomed trails in the pine forest.
Coldbrook is near the town of Kentville and offers all the amenities for tourists in the way of restaurants and service
Michelin Entrance, Waterville Nova Scotia
Saskatoon Shrine Club Clowns make a big splash… Members of the Saskatoon Shrine Club Clown Unit delived 140 dozen roses to the Saskatoon Cancer Clinic this past Valentine’s Day. This is an annual event where
receive a rose
Valentine’s
great job Clowns (Photo Supplied)
Itterman’s retire from life of school service
Ray and Karen Itterman were honoured at Biggar Central School 2000 February 13, recognizing their years and years of service to BCS and schools in the district. Ray, who joined the custodial staff in 2010, and Karen, who has been part of the school division since 2003, will be missed by the BCS family. From cleaning and keeping the facility safe, to advocating for the Green and Gold on a local and provincial level, the Itterman’s commitment to the education of our youth, and the support of teachers and staff, should never be in doubt. To both of them, good luck in retirement! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
What’s Happening with Farm in the Dell ?
2nd Chance Beef Draw
Here is your chance to have some Beef for the freezer. First draw winners, Neal & Cheryl Houdek, graciously donated the Beef back for this upcoming draw, Thank You!
Tickets for this beef draw are only $100 per square. Draw to be made when sold out. Contact Laura at 948-7677 to purchase a square. Beef supplied by Dwayne & Leeann Zagoruy
(Cut & Wrap Included) All proceeds go to
Rally Saturday, March 1, 2025 LANDIS, SASKATCHEWAN Registration: Karen’s - Bar & Grill 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
3 Cash prizes Many other prizes donated by local businesses ENTRY FEE: $30 includes supper, hot dogs and many many draws Supper: 4:00 to 7:00 Riders Free, Non Riders $15 cash only no ATM available
SUPPER & PRIZES at LANDIS COMMUNITY COMPLEX Hot Dogs at Halfway Point Sponsored By: SNOW CONDITIONS Permitting Vintage Sleds Preferred but ALL Sleds are Welcome!!
Nats Celebrate Valentine’s in Style…
The Biggar Nationals held a Valentine fundraiser this past past Friday with a fantastic performance from the “Ginger Ninja” Matt Gore, who is a Majician/ Comedian, entertained the full house. Lancer Music finished off the evening in style with some tunes for all to dance to.
(Photo Supplied)
A new addition to our Family Research Library
by Delta Fay Cruickshank for the Biggar Museum and Gallery
We have three books to add to our research library in the Royden Donahue Exhibit Gallery. Diana Dolack donated the two volume Emmanuel 1913-1961 - A Celebration
of 100 years of People of Faith 1913-2023, and The Life of Redeemer 19632023, In their Words.
The donation is on behalf of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. The history of the Lutheran church in the area.
Glancing through the
books I have discovered history of families with very familiar names, families still in the area. Hoppe, Kurbis, Meger, Redlich, Hildebrandt ... some of these names sounding familiar from my research of the Oban area.
Blazer/Saints take District Bronze ... An understandably excited Biggar group of basketball athletes are sporting Bronze medals from their recent foray into the playoffs this past February 12 in Eston. The District Championships, a fierce round of competition, featured the Biggar Central and St. Gabriel schools as a combined team. The third place winners started their tourney against Outlook, unfortunately suffering a 65-34 defeat, putting them into the bronze medal match. They won that game against the host Eston squad, 36-29 for the bronze! Outlook played Rosetown in the finals and won 60-19, for top spot. “The girls had an amazing end to their season, and I am super proud of how much they have grown!” said Coach Jennelle Minish. “They are a small and young team, but they did so well this year!” Congratulations, Girls! (Submitted Photo)
February
Hosted Locally by New Beginnings Church-Biggar
Another addition to our Family Research Library.
(Submitted Photo)
The most important date in the Toronto Blue Jays 2025 season might already be over. February 18 was the day Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., set as his deadline for contract negotiations and the team’s future may hinge on what happened that day. Without Guerrero signing an extension prior to the start of spring training, the Montrealborn slugger said he will not negotiate during the season and will play out his contract, which expires at the end of the 2025 season. That would make him a free agent, and front-office rivals in New York and Boston were salivating at the thought of having Guerrero sign a longterm free-agent contract with their franchises.
If he hasn’t signed a long-term deal with the Jays by his self-imposed deadline of Feb. 18, then Guerrero, Jr., will likely be traded to a contender seeking a big bat for this season’s stretch drive. Toronto would fetch some talented prospects, and likely a regular or two, but most Toronto fans would rather have Guerrero, Jr., playing for the Jays into the 2030s. Since Juan Soto signed a 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, and is one year older than the 25-year-old Guerrero, Jr., it’s hard to envision the Blue Jays star not demanding somewhere in the $600 million range for 12 to 15 years. He might even want Soto
Biggar Bowling Weekly Scores
Monday Adult Mixed
Signing Guerrero, Jr., key for Blue Jays
money, although his stats aren’t quite as good as the former Padre, National and Yankee. Meanwhile, as Jays’ fans were lamenting that all was quiet on the free-agent front, the front office sprung into action in January and signed slugger Anthony Santander, a former Baltimore Oriole outfielder who belted 44 home runs last year. Then they grabbed 40-year-old pitcher Max Scherzer, a former ace but probably still able to put together one decent year. The three-time Cy Young award winner will get $15.5 million from the Blue Jays for one year’s service and, coming off a 2024 campaign with the Rangers where he had a 2-4 injury-plagued season (hamstring, shoulder and back problems) expectations are tempered in Jaysville. Still, Jays’ brass are holding out hope that Scherzer might find the touch that led him to 216 career wins and a 3.15 earned-run average.
Overall, the Jays’ roster appears able to at least improve over last year’s 74-88 record (last place in MLB’s toughest division, the American League East). Any lineup featuring Guerrero, Jr., Bo Bichette, Santander, Daulton Varsho, and George Springer should generate a bushel of runs. And with Scherzer added to a pitching staff featuring Jose Berrios, Chris Bassitt and Kevin Gausman, the word ‘potential’ is front and centre. Yariel Rodriguez (1-8 as a rookie reliever last year) and Bowden Francis (8-5 in 2024) could also fit into the rotation.
The Jays played their first spring training game Feb. 22 vs. the Yankees. Their regular season begins with the first of four games March 27
vs. Baltimore (91-71 last season). By the time April Fools’ Day arrives, Jays’ fans might have an inkling as to what 2025 might hold.
• Vancouver’s Steve Burgess, on sports being a distraction during turbulent political times: “Cheering for the Canucks is a distraction in the sense that a thirddegree burn distracts from a toothache.”
• Burgess again, on the
reported feud between Canuck players Elias Petterssen and J.T. Miller, prior to his trade to the Rangers: “It’s never a good sign when the most hard-hitting action happens in the locker room.”
• ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, on the Super Bowl: “For me, the best part was listening to Tom Brady pretend he was not ecstatic about Patrick Mahomes not
winning Super Bowl number four.”
• Columnist Norman Chad, on things overheard from the four-legged competitors through the years at the Westminster Dog Show at Madison Square Garden: 1.) “Hey, Apple, would it kill you to come up with a Hydrant Locator app for my iPhone?”; 2.) “If you go No. 2 on the red carpet, you might as well get on the first bus to
Palookaville.”
• Greg Cote of the Miami Herald: “There’s axethrowing at many bars. Hey, there’s a combo with no foreseeable problems: Alcohol ... and axes! Why don’t we have track event that involves athletes being shot from cannons or catapulted over castle walls?”
• Care to comment? E-mail brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca
TAX ENFORCEMENT LIST Town of Biggar
Notice is hereby given under The Tax Enforcement Act that unless the arrears and costs appearing opposite the land and title number described in the following list are fully paid before the 22nd day of April, 2025, an interest based on a tax lien will be registered against the land.
NOTE: A sum for costs in an amount required by subsection 4(3) of The Tax Enforcement Act is included in the amount shown against each parcel.
Tuesday Night Mixed
Thursday Afternoon Seniors
YBC
Ladies High Single - Yvonne Markewich 250. Ladies High Triple - Yvonne Markewich 579. Mens High Single - Barry Redlick 256. Mens High Triple - Barry Redlick 560.
Ladies High Single - Melissa Raschke 192. Ladies High Triple - Melissa Raschke 510. Mens High Single - Michael Hebert 266. Mens High TripleMichael Hebert 628.
Ladies High Single - Jo Angelopoulos 210. Ladies High Triple - Jo Angelopoulos 485. Mens High Single - Don Goring 197. Mens High Triple - Gerry Besse 482.
Pee Wee Single - Blake Foster 117; Double - Ashton Kramer 205. Bantam Single - Nash Wheaton 161; Triple - Nash Wheaton 412. Junior Single - Xander Hebert 216; Triple - Xander Hebert 535. Senior High Single - Hanna Keefe 239; High TripleNoah Park 604.
Dated this 18th day of February, 2025 Camille Box CAO
Bruce Penton Penton on Sports
Business & Professional …
Business & Professional …
SUDOKU
by Philip Watson, New Beginnings Church, Big-
gar
Walking with God
We have been enduring the bitterness of winter, the cold, and the snow, I keep asking myself, “How much longer is this cold weather going to last?”
But I have noticed recently that the sky is getting lighter earlier in the morning and the sun is setting later in the evening. I am reminded that spring and summer are on the way. I have not been very active this winter and really look forward to going for walks. To be able to walk the sidewalks around town, to enjoy the hiking trails in the near by recreation sites. Having a gentle
breeze caressing my face and feeling the warmth of the sun as I walk.
Sometimes our passage through life has being compared to a walk. If a task is easy we call it, “A walk in the park.” As we walk through life we tend to focus on the pleasant things, the gentle breezes, the warmth of the sun and the other nice things. But sometimes when I walk I get surrounded by mosquitoes or black flies. The sun is sometimes too hot and burns my skin, there are gale force winds, that whip gravel into the air, peppering my skin like little daggers. I have started walks that I have regretted and could only endure until the end.
When we have fellow-
ship with God, it’s referred to as walking with God as we see in Genesis 5:24, “And Enoch walked with God:”
In the Bible many of the people walked with God. Sometimes When God wanted closer relationships with people He would ask them to walk before Him as in Gen 17, “And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.”
When we walk with God, He guides the way in which we walk as promised in Psalms 119:105, “Thy word [is] a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Contrary to some thinking walking with God is actually delightful as David the Psalmist writes in Psalms 119:35, “Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight.” And in Psalms 16:11, “Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are] pleasures for evermore.”
When we wake up each morning we choose how we will walk through our day. Will we look forward to those gentle breezes that caress our faces and enjoy the warmth of the sun or will we focus on the mosquitoes and the gravel bring whipped up by the wind and stabbing at our skin. Will you invite God to walk with you, allowing Him to protect us from harshness of life and therefore making our walk through each day a delight.
ARIES –
Mar 21/Apr 20
Aries, impulsiveness may cause friction with loved ones this week, so avoid rushing into decisions. Keep an open mind when others come to you with their thoughts.
TAURUS –
Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, expect some clarity regarding a recent financial decision this week. You’ll get the answers you need about budgeting and other investments you’ve been mulling over.
GEMINI –
May 22/Jun 21
This week you may be tempted to overcommit to social endeavors, Gemini. Keep your boundaries in check, especially if you are having difficulty telling other people, “no.”
CANCER –Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, much of your to-do list this week will focus on your home life. Take a break from the hustle and spend time bringing order and balance to spaces in your home.
LEO –
Jul 23/Aug 23
Your words carry a lot of weight right now, Leo. Be very careful about the opinions you offer and the stories you share. By the weekend you may be called upon for some advice.
VIRGO – Aug 24/
Sept 22
Virgo, if you have been thinking about making some sweeping financial decisions, now is the time to take action. Putting things off for another day can wreck longterm plans.
LIBRA –
Sept 23/Oct 23
Sometimes you have to give yourself a pat on the back when others are not offering the feedback you need, Libra. You are doing a great job and learning along the way.
SCORPIO –Oct 24/Nov 22
You often keep your cards close to the vest, Scorpio. Others may be surprised to learn a project you have been working on for some time has come to fruition.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In the estate of DONALD ALEXANDER MCMAHON late of the Town of Biggar, Saskatchewan, deceased.
SAGITTARIUS –
Nov 23/Dec 21
Personal ambitions are at the forefront of your mind, Sagittarius. However, you may be placing too much importance on financial matters rather than the other rewards from hard work.
CAPRICORN –
Dec 22/Jan 20
Biggar Barracuda Swim Club AGM March 10/2025 - 7pm
All claims against the above estate, duly verified by statutory declaration and with particulars and valuation of security held, if any, must be sent to the undersigned before the 15th day of March 2025
Erin K. Little Little & Company LLP 112 Avenue B N Saskatoon, SK S7L 1C8
You are doing quite well in your professional life right now, Capricorn. But in terms of home life, there are definitely some areas that can use improvement. Focus on those things.
AQUARIUS –
Jan 21/Feb 18
Aquarius, you could be feeling a strong urge to declutter personal spaces, such as the garage, closets or even your home office. Find the time to start sorting through belongings.
PISCES –
Feb 19/Mar 20
All it may take is a simple conversation to clear up some persistent misconceptions, Pisces. Figure out when to schedule that talk and afterwards you will feel better.
Tired of running out of ink.? WE CAN HELP JUST SEND US YOUR DOCUMENTS AND LET US PRINT THEM FOR YOU.
Biggar & District Credit Union Board Elections, Bylaw Approvals & Registration Night EVERYONE WELCOME
SHROVE TUESDAY
Tuesday March 4, 2025
Biggar United Church 4:30pm - 6:30pm “Use basement ramp North Door” Adults - $15 8 & under - free Call for a Ride 948-2280 leave message
JOYCE BRENDA COBEN
June 3, 1956 - February 15, 2025
Joyce Brenda Coben passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Rosetown Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on June 3, 1956, in Saskatoon, Saskatch ewan, Joyce was the fifth of eight chil dren of Grant and Lola Montgomery. Raised on the family farm south of Kinley, she attended Kinley School until its closure, then went on to Perdue School, where she especially loved literature, social studies, and typing. After graduating in 1974 with a class of 25 students, Joyce pursued Business College in Regina, becoming a key punch operator and later working at the National Farmers Union in Saskatoon in 1975.
After reconnecting with Terry, whom she had known throughout her school years, they began dating. After eight years together, they married on March 31, 1983, at Imagery Photography Studio in Saskatoon and settled on Terry’s family farm north of Tessier. They welcomed two children, Katryna (1985) and Scott (1988), creating a four-generation family legacy on the Coben farm where Joyce would spend the rest of her life.
Although Joyce managed the home office, her greatest joy was spending time with her family, particularly her grandchildren. She was known for her unwavering faith, kindness, and deep compassion for others. Her warm and caring nature touched everyone who knew her.
Joyce will be dearly missed by her loving husband Terry of almost 42 years; daughter Katryna (Mike) Sawchyn; son Scott Coben; her treasured grandchildren Evan, Aiden, and Madelyn Sawchyn; her loving sisters and brother; Cheryl (Marvin) Zoerb, Wendy (Dave) Penner, Colleen Montgomery, Carol (Raymond) Bowkowy, and Russell (Setsumi) Montgomery; all her cherished nieces and nephews and their children; as well as her mother-in-law Bernice Coben. She was predeceased by her parents, Grant and Lola Montgomery, and her twin brothers, Gordon and Garry.
St. Gabriel roman CatholiC ChurCh 109 - 7th Ave.W, Biggar Father Edward Gibney Parish Phone: 306-948-3330
Saturday Mass.......7:00p.m. Sunday Mass....... 11:00a.m. our lady of fatima CatholiC ChurCh, Landis Sunday Mass.......9:00a.m.
Presbyterians, Anglicans and Lutherans
St.Pauls Anglican Redeemer Lutheran 205 4th Ave. E 319 7th Ave. E
FEBRUARY 9 10:30am Regular Worship (St.Pauls) FEBRUARY 23 10:30am Regular Worship (St.Pauls) Rev. Daphne Bender Pastor’s cellular Phone: 1-306-621-9559 Office Phone: 306-948-3731 (Messages are forwarded to Pastor’s phone immediately)
Biggar associated gospel church 312 - 8th Ave.W. and corner of Quebec St., Biggar
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and staff at Rosetown & District Heath Centre for their compassionate care during Joyce’s final days.
Joyce took immense pride in her home and yard, devoting countless hours to keeping them beautifully maintained. In 2000, she and Terry founded RYJO Tours after planning a family bus trip to Disneyland. Their love for people and adventure led them to expand the business, offering tours throughout Canada and the U.S. In 2008, they purchased their own coach and never looked back. Joyce especially enjoyed the trips she took with Terry to Victoria, Hawaii, Amish Country, Hostfest, Blue Jays games, and shopping in Minot and Bismarck.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Perdue Recreation Complex on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 1:00 PM. A private interment at Tessier Cemetery will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Joyce to: Ranger Lake Bible Camp – etransfer@onehopecanada.ca
Delisle Community Church – dccgiving@sasktel. net
*Arrangements are in the care of Swift Current Funeral Home.
LIVESTOCK FOR SALE
HORSESHOE E CHAROLAIS Annual Bull Sale At the Ranch, near Kenaston, SK. Saturday, March th, 2:00pm Selling 50 yearling bulls and 20 two year olds. Semen tested. Call Layne or Paula Evans 306-252-2246. Layne (306)561-7147 Catalogue, videos, and online bidding will be on DLMS.ca
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
NEW BEGINNINGS
CHURCH
...In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope...1Pe 1:3 You are Invited Sunday Tea and Coffee -10:15am Worship - 10:30am NEW HORIZONS 117 3rd Ave. W, Biggar For more info - Philip Watson - 250-487-8476
