Vol. 103 No. 50
Box 40, 102 3rd Ave West, Biggar, Saskatchewan S0K 0M0
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
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Premier says session focused on opportunities and challenges of growth Premier Brad Wall said the fall legislative session which ended December
Tickling ivory . . . Madison Genaille plays the first, perhaps nervous, notes during the annual Heart of the City recital, Monday at the Majestic Theatre’s Bielby Hall. The students must now call themselves musicians,
6 focused on meeting the opportunities and challenges of a growing
Saskatchewan. “Saskatchewan is growing at its fastest pace in more
as they’ve progressed - and keep progressing, during their musical journey. Check out the biggarindependent.ca for more content this Friday! (Independent Photo by Kevin
t h a n 9 0 y e a r s,” Wa l l said. “Our government is committed to ensuring that growth continues and to meet the challenges of a growing province.” Wall pointed to the recent decision to increase funding to eight of the province’s fastest-growing school divisions. “We are seeing school enrolments in some divisions increasing at an unprecedented level,” Wall said. “That creates challenges in terms of c l a s s r o o m s i z e s, b u t growth also gives us the opportunity to deal with those challenges. Our growing tax base allows us to provide growing school divisions with the additional resources they need while still maintaining a balanced budget.” Wall said the balanced budget confirmed by Finance Minister Ken Krawetz in the Mid-Year Report was another highlight of the fall session.
Brautigam)
Sask Party delivers surprises, debt, say NDP The NDP are claiming a number of improvements for everyday families to the table during the fall session of the legislature. The Sask Party, they accuse, revealed an agenda no one asked for, filled with surprises. “The NDP team listened to everyday families and took the lead on concrete improvements,” said NDP leader John Nilson on the final day of the session, December 6. “We succeeded in making Jimmy’s Law a reality, giving more security to late-night workers. We saw movement in our push for the creation of an online registry of public buildings that contain asbestos, improving safety in care homes, schools and workplaces. And we put a spotlight on the fact that refugees were being treated inhumanely, forcing the Sask Party to do the right thing.” The NDP also say they p u t t h e S a s k Pa r t y ’s management of tax dollars front-and-centre, calling for more common sense
in spending and honesty from the Sask Party when it comes to reporting the financial facts. “People are now looking past the Sask Party’s PR and billboards,” Nilson i n s i s t e d . “ We h e l p e d reveal the true cost and economic benefit of the film tax credit the Sask Party cancelled - a program that was a good deal for Saskatchewan. We also made it clear that the Sask Party’s smoke-and-mirrors accounting is unacceptable, with the independent auditor confirming those criticisms.” Nilson added that the g o v e r n m e n t ’s a g e n d a appeared to be a surprising return to the Sask Party’s 2003 ideology of privatization and selloffs. “The Sask Party is selling a highly profitable Crown corporation, ISC. It is selling government-owned land meant for affordable housing and selling-off 300 affordable homes. It is reviving its failed P3 secretariat - this time
called SaskBuilds - as an expensive privatization scheme to push infrastructure costs down the road. These fire sales should not be necessary in such good times.” NDP MLAs will spend the coming weeks in their constituencies and meeting
with people throughout the province. “ Pe o p l e a c r o s s t h e province have given us support,” said Nilson. “The ideas, concerns and priorities people have shared with us have helped us focus on the issues that matter to Saskatchewan
- and helped us call on the Sask Party to do the same. We want to keep that communication going. We want to hear from as many people as possible because it is coming more and more clear that this government is not meeting the needs of our province.”
When you have the opportunity, make the most of it . . . Christopher Montgomery bends the ear of Santa Claus, Saturday as the Biggar Legion invited the Christmas icon to their hall to meet and greet kids. Christopher surprised Santa, asking nothing for himself, just help for the homeless and, we suspect, for everyone to have a blessed Christmas. God Bless You, Christopher! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
“Saskatchewan continues to have the only balanced provincial budget in Canada,” Wall said. “That is a huge advantage for our province, and again, it demonstrates the benefits of growth. Despite a decline in resource revenues, growth in other parts of the economy has allowed us to maintain a balanced budget.” Other highlights of the fall session include: • A new Saskatchewan Employment Act that protects workers, promotes growth and clearly defines the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees and unions in the workplace; • M a j o r ch a n g e s t o modernize Saskatchewan’s liquor laws and allow for new private liquor stores; • Education Savings (SAGES), which helps families save for their children’s post-secondary education by providing a grant of up to $250 per child per year toward their Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP); • New legislation to improve safety in highway construction zones; and • Legislation to facilitate growth in Information Services Corporation (ISC) through a public share offering. Wa l l s a i d t h e f a l l legislative session followed the direction laid out in the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth which was released just prior to the start of the session. “The reason we seek growth is so we can continue to improve the quality of life for everyone in Saskatchewan,” Wall said. “The Saskatchewan Plan for Growth spells out the principles of a strong and growing province, like balanced budgets, investing in infrastructure and skills training, increased trade and economic competitiveness. “These are the principles our government followed during the fall session and these are the principles we will continue to follow to improve the quality of life for everyone in Saskatchewan.”
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Mixed jobs report points to film, AEDP cuts, say NDP The latest jobs report from Statistics Canada once again highlights the need for action to improve First Nations and Métis employment and reinstate the Film Employment Tax Credit, claim the NDP The mixed report shows private sector employment dropped by 1,600 over the last year, while public sector employment increased, they add. “The loss of 1,600 jobs in the private sector over the last year really surprises me,” said NDP employment critic Cam Broten. “I can’t help but wonder about the impact of the Sask Party government’s reckless cut of the Film Employment Tax Credit. After all, the study from the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce and SaskFilm showed that our province’s film industry employed 850 people and generated $44.5 million in economic activity in Saskatchewan.” The Statistics Canada jobs report also noted that the First Nations labour force shrunk by 700 over the last year and the Métis labour force shrunk by 1,600. The labour force includes those who are either working or actively looking for work. “This is the fifth consecutive month that the jobs report has not painted a very good picture of First Nations and
Stack ‘em . . . Perdue Pirate netminder, Aiden Kerslake gets a pad on the puck, December 7 as they hosted the Radisson Wheat Kings at the Jubilee. Pirates ran a short Métis employment,” Broten claimed. “The Sask Party needs to recognize that we all benefit when poverty and inequality are reduced. The government needs to develop a real action plan to improve First Nations
bench, and suffered the consequences, falling 7-3. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
and Métis employment, and a good first step would be to reinstate the Aboriginal Employment Development Program.” Broten asserted that sectors that lost jobs included: trade (-4,400 jobs);
accommodation and food services (-3,500 jobs); transportation and warehousing (-1,600 jobs); professional, scientific and technical services (-1,500 jobs); and finance, insurance, real estate and leasing (-800 jobs).
“Man Behind Handsome” a personal journey for Harris author
Harris author, Pat Trask (submitted photo)
by Kevin Brautigam of The Independent
Choosing the subject of one’s first book is never an easy task. Airing your families trials and travails only compounds what is a tough, difficult and emotional draining journey that only writing can demand. First-time author, Pat Trask, as all good authors must, chose a subject she knew for her book “The Man Behind Handsome” - her father, a controlling authoritarian figure. Blessed with good looks, the man had another side, Trask relates.
“My Dad was a real control freak. He was physically and mentally abusive, very unreasonable, completely controlled his wife and his family in a bullying way,” she explained, describing the story of her childhood as one of survival. No easy task, the book was two-and-a-half years in the making. A self-described lover of the written word, Trask began taking classes, first developing the story in short form as part of her studies. “My husband always said ‘You have to write a story about your growing up here,” she described. “I thought, ‘Now, how do you start to write a book? I submitted a brief story on my Dad to our writing class. . . From that, I thought I needed to build on this - I need to go on with this story. Having conferred with my three sisters that are still living, we had quite a decision to: Do we bare
our souls this thoroughly or don’t we? I guess my theory is that men who abuse little boys sexually, need to be exposed, and these men who totally control and physically abuse their families need to be exposed, as well.” Baring your soul for the world to witness, left Trask exposed, feeling vulnerable to the glares and hushed whispers of her peers, and the faceless anonymity of a critical public. “Now that I’ve written it, I feel I’m standing naked in the middle of a wheat field,” Trask jokes. “But I accepted that before I wrote it. “I do give Dad credit throughout the book where he needs credit, but the one thing I really credit him for is never, ever did he sexually abuse us - there were six of us girls [in her family], so we were fortunate that way.” Through the telling of her story, coming to terms with the past, Trask has
come to a catharsis, a cleansing of the soul by releasing a dark stain. “Thank goodness I met and married the man I did, because he helped me greatly because of his attitude to life and people. His family, too, really helped me through it. I have a sister who never quite got over it. I’m hoping maybe this book will help her,” Trask revealed, adding that she hoped it helps others in their quiet struggle with abuse. “In my summary in the book, I say that was my idea in writing it. Hopefully, when there are other situations like this, that people will see fit to do something about it.” Preliminary reviews have been excellent. “One of my friends from the writing class was never exposed in her formative years - and she’s roughly my age - to any kind of parental abuse. She almost couldn’t read it. She read through some of the early chapters, and
some of them she couldn’t read,” Trask muses. Orders are now being taken for the book.Trask is expecting to take delivery of the book December 17 or 18. She is planning a book launch at the Biggar Museum and Gallery this
December 19. “The main goal in writing this book was to expose this man. I think in his own way, he loved his kids, but, boy! I don’t know . . . he had a pretty rough way of showing it.”
Opinions ........................................................... 4 Agriculture ...................................................... 8 Sports ...............................................................10 Christmas Promotion .................................11-15 Classifieds .................................................17-19 Business & Professional Directories .........22-23
GAS PRICES AT THE PUMP… Wednesday, December 12, noon (stations randomly selected)
Biggar .............................................109.9¢/L Duperow Cardlock .........................108.9¢/L Perdue… .........................................108.9¢/L Landis… .........................................108.9¢/L Rosetown… ....................................109.9¢/L North Battleford….........................111.9¢/L Unity...............................................111.9¢/L Saskatoon .......................................109.9¢/L Humboldt .......................................109.9¢/L Lloydminster ..................................100.9¢/L Kindersley ......................................109.9¢/L Swift Current .................................109.9¢/L
Lottery Numbers
UNOFFICIAL
649 - Saturday, Dec. 08 02, 12, 22, 42, 43, 46 Bonus 05 Extra 2670773 649 - Wednesday, Dec. 05 04, 26, 34, 38, 41, 46 Bonus 44 Extra 5094903
Western 649 - Saturday, Dec. 08 05, 12, 23, 33, 41, 44 Bonus 35 Western 649 - Wednesday, Dec. 05 09, 16, 30, 43, 44, 48 Bonus 49 Lotto Max - Friday, Dec. 07 05, 11, 22, 29, 38, 42, 49 Bonus 33 Extra 6597201
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3
Council Minute highlights The regular meeting of Biggar Town Council was held November 6, at 7:15 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Attending the meeting were Mayor Ray Sadler, Aldermen Ron Arnold, Alan Boyle, Penny McCallum, Eugene Motruk, and Kirk Sherbino. At 7 p.m., all members of the new Council were assembled to take their oath of office. The oath of office was administered by Commissioner for Oaths, Marty Baroni (also the town’s Assistant Administrator), to those members of Council present. The new members of Council then assumed the duties of their office. Council resolved that the Biggar and District Recreation Board Operation Manual Policy RP(1), approved April 29, 2003 by resolution number 03-219, be repealed and that the Biggar and District Recreation Board Operation Manual Policy RP(1), be approved effective Nov. 6, 2012. • Mayor Ray Sadler declared a pecuniary interest in the following matter and left the Council chambers at 7:45 p.m. Councillor Penny McCallum assumed the chair for the next item of business. Council resolved that the General Accounts Paid in the amount of $90,700.93, and the General Accounts Payable in the amount of $47,958.97, be approved. • Mayor Ray Sadler returned to the Council chambers and resumed the chair at 7:47 p.m. Council resolved that Councillor Kirk Sherbino be authorized to attend the West Central Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) Regional Meeting on Nov. 19, 2012 in Kerrobert. Council resolved that the letter from the walking group, requesting the elimination of the hall rental fee, be approved. Council resolved that the invoice from the Heartland Health Region for doctor recruitment expenses, in the amount of $11,311.67, be approved for payment. Council resolved that the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer be authorized
Six strings, twenty fingers . . . Kevin and Kim of ‘The Hills’ play a true guitar duet at the Biggar Community Hall, Friday. The married couple, part of a gospel music group, were wildly popular to sign the agreement with the Department of Western Economic Diversification, C o m m u n i t y Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF) for the Town to upgrade the swimming pool by adding a PVC pool liner and any other repairs and rehabilitation as needed to complete the project. Council resolved that invoice No. J-408 from Catterall and Wright, in the amount of $2,000.25 for services regarding the landfill project, be approved for payment. Council resolved that the request from Diane Sawatzky to waive the associated fees with
taking out a building permit be denied. Also resolved, that the following building permit be approved upon payment of the prescribed fee: Dwelling development; Lots 22 and
for the annual Biggar Associated Gospel’s Christmas Banquet. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
23 Block 39 Plan G167; Subject to compliance with the points noted in the Plan Examination Report from MuniCode Services Ltd., dated Nov. 1, 2012. Councillor Sherbino
requested a recorded vote on the following resolution: “That Bylaw No. 12-737, being a bylaw for the purpose of entering in to an agreement to provide tax incentives, be read a
third time and adopted.” In Favour: Ron Arnold, Jim Besse, Alan Boyle, Eugene Motruk, Penny McCallum, Ray Sadler. Opposed: Kirk Sherbino. • Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Twelve months of year-over-year employment gains Saskatchewan job numbers hit a record high of 540,000 people for the month of November, according to the Labour Force survey released by Statistics Canada, December 7. There were 15,800 more people working in the province compared to a year ago. Full-time em-
ployment also reached a record high of 443,500 for the month of November. “Reaching record levels of employment is an important milestone and it confirms that our economy is on a solid footing,” Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. “The rise in jobs is very good news,
and is vital to supporting our economic momentum.” Saskatchewan’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 4.5 per cent was the second lowest in the country. Nationally, the unemployment rate was at 7.2 per cent. Other highlights include: • Saskatchewan’s growth rate of 3.0 per cent was the second highest among the provinces; • Full-time and part-time jobs each increased by 7,900; • The goods producing sector was a key contributor to strong employment growth with gains in construction, agriculture, manufacturing, forestry, mining, oil and gas, and utilities; • Regina’s employment was No strike here . . . Biggar Novice Nationals hosted rival Unity, Saturday at the Jubilee. up by 1,500 (1.2 With the NHL (No Hockey League) still ‘greeding’ it out, minor hockey players round the per cent) for 31 country is were you go to find the real “Love of the Game”. (Independent Photo by Kevin months of yearover-year gains, Brautigam)
and Saskatoon’s employment was up by 6,900 (4.8 per cent) for 13 months of year-over-year gains; • Regina’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.0 per cent, the lowest rate among all Canadian major cities; and • The seasonally adjusted youth unemployment rate was 10.0 per cent, the second lowest among the provinces. “As our economy grows we are seeing spin off benefits that include more jobs,” Boyd said. “As we look to the future, we’ll continue to connect employers with job seekers, provide the skills and training to meet workforce needs, and in doing so, build a strong and prosperous Saskatchewan.” Joy Aldridge was the lucky winner of $90 in the Biggar Museum & Gallery November Toonie Lotto. She graciously donated it back to the Biggar Museum. Congratulations, Joy!
4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Biggar’s snow removal the best Well, I’m sure by now everyone has had enough snow for this winter season. The past few weeks it just never seems to quit. The snow shovel is almost worn out (or at least the operator is). The white stuff does create some challenges especially when you are talking about clearing the streets. As I listen to Saskatoon and read about the issues in surrounding communities, we have much to be thankful for here in Biggar. We truly do have the best snow removal program in the province. The guys are out as fast as they can be -- after one heavy snowfall they were even out in the evening clearing the streets. And, they try to get the whole town done as fast as they can. No small feat when you think about the amount of snow we have had lately. You barely get over one snow fall when another hits. I know when travelling to neighbouring communities that their streets are not cleared as quickly. Indeed, Saskatoon is not even going to clear residential areas sticking only to the main arteries. Even at that, the snow removal is sketchy. Then, you have to consider all the regular chores that have to be done in addition to snow clearing. Jobs like garbage detail and looking after water works. The town crew has been a busy bunch lately. So, here’s a big bouquet to the crew for all their efforts. It is very much appreciated. P.H.
Income mobility is still a problem in Canada Volatility strongest for poorest 25% of the income ladder by Michael Wolfson, Expert Adviser, EvidenceNetwork.ca Distributed by Troy Media, www.troymedia.com The Fraser Institute’s recent study on income mobility claims it is turning conventional wisdom on its head. In a nutshell, the Institute says income inequality in Canada is not a problem because more people have incomes that have been going up than down, particularly among the poorest earners. This reasoning, if it were conceptually and empirically correct, would certainly provide an important caution to the Occupy Wall Street concerns about the dramatic growth in incomes of the top one per cent. The Fraser Institute study does use the best data available to examine income mobility in Canada – a large Statistics Canada sample of individuals’ income tax returns linked from one year to the next. Unfortunately, its results are misleading.
The key that something is amiss is that, while the study claims to be examining relative mobility, the average proportion of individuals moving up the earnings ladder – 47 per cent – is much larger than the proportion moving down the earnings ladder – 14 per cent. Of course, if we look at dollars, the majority of workers have rising earnings, partly due to inflation, and partly general economic growth. But the kind of mobility the Fraser Institute purports to be examining is how one income group in 1990 is doing over time relative to another. It is well known that there is a broad life cycle pattern to earnings – lower entry-level wages in your early 20s, generally rising to a career maximum in your 50s, and then declining essentially to zero after age 70 when fully retired. So of course, we should expect that a great many people will see rising earnings as they move from newly minted to mid-career
workers. The Fraser study focused on younger workers in 1990, but defined its income groups based on the entire population of earners, which is generally older, and therefore has higher average earnings. While they have not published the details of their income groups, this likely accounts for more than three times as many earners looking like they are moving up the income ladder rather than moving down. If the analysis had been done fairly, looking at relative mobility as it claims, it would have used income groups for the specific population being studied – younger earners. Then, for every person moving up a relative position on the income ladder (e.g. from the bottom 20 per cent to the top 20 per cent, as in the Fraser analysis), someone else must have moved down, there being a fixed number of rungs (or 20 per cent income groups in this case).
Fortunately, there is an analysis of the question of income mobility in Canada based on a more careful methodology which I co-authored a few years ago, using exactly the same income tax data base. Our results lead to quite different conclusions. While the Fraser Institute divided earners into five broad groups, using income points bound to result in more upward than downward income mobility, we looked at much more detailed and properly relative income groups, including the bottom 10 per cent up to the top one per cent, and even the top 0.01 per cent. As part of our study, we assessed rationales for income inequality put forward by Milton Friedman, also cited by the Fraser Institute. One of his arguments is that high income inequality need not be ethically troublesome, because high incomes go together with more volatile incomes, and are justified,
therefore, because they represent compensation for the greater risks of a volatile income. Income mobility and income volatility are clearly linked – both relate to how much incomes move up and down over time. And if the Fraser Institute had done its analysis properly, the same number of individuals would be moving up as moving down the income ladder. The interesting question in light of Mr. Friedman’s argument is whether those with the highest incomes actually experience the highest income volatility. Our analysis showed that yes, the elite earners in the top 1 per cent (and up) do have more volatile incomes than those at the middle and upper-middle rungs of the income ladder. But those in the bottom 25 per cent of the income spectrum faced even higher income volatility. In other words, the top one per cent and even the top 0.01 per cent had
incomes that bounced around less than the incomes of the 25 per cent at the poorest end of the income ladder. A major reason: low earnings are often the result of “precarious” jobs which not only pay low wages, but are unstable. Life at the top may be risky, but the real risks in life lie at the bottom of the income spectrum.. This reality of precarious jobs amongst the poor, and current research standards for unbiased analysis of income mobility, are ignored by the Fraser Institute as it tries to perpetuate the Horatio Alger, ‘rags to riches’ myth. Michael Wolfson is an adviser with EvidenceNetwork.ca, and Canada Research Chair in population health modeling/ populomics at the University of Ottawa. He is a former assistant chief statistician at Statistics Canada, and has a PhD in economics from Cambridge.
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Publications Mail Registrations No. 0008535 Published by THE INDEPENDENT PRINTERS LTD. and issued every Monday at the office of publication, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar, Saskatchewan, S0K 0M0 Publishers - Margaret and Daryl Hasein Editor - Kevin Brautigam Advertising Consultant - Urla Tyler Composition - Delta Fay Cruickshank
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COPYRIGHT The contents of The Independent are protected by copyright. Reproduction of any material herein may be made only with the written permission of the publisher. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Biggar Independent invites the public to participate in its letters to the Editor section. All letters must be signed. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5
Saskjobs visits almost 950,000 in November Christmas traditions. There are so many traditions relative to the holiday season it’s sometimes impossible to keep track of them. Sending Christmas cards. Decorating a tree. Holiday parties. Christmas music. And lots of others. Christmas baking. A tradition is something that is passed down from generation to generation, a custom or event that is always done. In other words a long established custom. Every family has their own traditions associated with Christmas. Some may open gifts on Christmas Eve while others wake at the crack of dawn (around 6ish) on the morning of the 25th to rip off the gift wrap. Depending on your chosen faith you may attend an evening church service on the 24th. And, then there’s the supper. You may be the one hosting or perhaps you join a family member for the event. A staple on the menu is the turkey and the trimmings -stuffing, cranberries, salads, vegetables and dessert. Now, dessert may be something that
has been prepared for generations or perhaps you experiment with a new recipe each year. What about that baking? Some people bake for weeks to prepare while others don’t bake at all saying their family doesn’t eat it nor do they need the extra calories. But, there are always some favourites in every family. Shortbread. Cookies. Breads. That’s not to say that new recipes aren’t tried, some make the cut for next year others are a one-time effort. While many embrace the old traditions steeped in memories and passed down, as families grow and scatter across the miles, new traditions are being formed. It is not always possible for families to gather as they once did. Remember at one time families lived and settled in the same area, close enough to make a one day trip. That is not the case today. As each new family is created so are new traditions, some are borrowed from the past and others are started. I remember when we were first married it was balancing act getting to the two sides of the family. We moved
away and sadly our parents are no longer with us. We developed a new set of traditions more suited to us. Today Christmas is a more relaxed time. Canada is a multicultural country and so are many families. Oftentimes, they take traditions from each culture and combine them to make their own. As with families, communities also have events which continue year after year. Santa Claus Day or maybe a parade. In many areas the business community stays open late some evenings. Maybe there are sleigh rides or perhaps carol singing downtown. At this time maybe it is a family night where everyone takes in the activities or maybe it is a time for you to gather with friends and have an evening of shopping ending the evening by stopping in at your favourite coffee shop for a visit. We have a few humbugs in the office who dread the season but it can be a joyous time of the year. Mix some of the old with the new and enjoy.
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There were 948,055 hits on the Saskjobs.ca Web site in November 2012, up 17.6 per cent from November 2011. “Saskatchewan’s economy continues to grow at a rapid rate and has created a priority for us to work at initiatives that connect employers with job seekers,” Economy Minister Bill Boyd said. “Saskjobs.ca is one of the ways where it is happening as more employers post jobs and more job seekers visit this site.” In November 2012, employers posted 14,035 jobs on Saskjobs.ca, a 4.0 per cent increase from last November, Boyd said. “Full-time jobs represent 61.23 per cent of the posted positions. Mobile visits jumped by 229.96 per cent November 2012 over November 2011.” This is a solid rise in the number of hits to the Web site over the
last year. Almost onequarter of those hits are coming from outside the province and the country which is contributing to
easing some of the labour market challenges and at the same time, contributing to the rise in our population.
Deadline for Copy is monday 5:00 p.m.
…from Biggar Sarcan and BRC Staff Biggar Sarcan HOLIDAY CLOSING December 22nd, 2012 to January 6th, 2013 Open January 7th, 2013 at 8:30 a.m. We expect the week of January 7th - 11th to be extremely busy. Please be prepared for long line ups.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
6 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
I knew that guy! by Bob Mason
Like many other people, when Yours Truly sees something written about other folks he has known in the past. He exclaims things like, “Oh, I used to know that guy years ago! Always hoping that a small bit of “that guys” fame might rub off on part of him!This way of looking at things was okay for a awhile, until a fellow asked if I was any relation to the infamous “Beast of Battleford”, who apparently I resembled and whose name was “Bob”. I took a little while to pull back a bit from trying to horn in on these people’s fame, until YT got that big “Saskatchewan Encloypedia” for Christmas, and when he opened it, he yelled “Hey. I knew that fellow years ago!” So here we go again! Roy Atkinson: That big book reports that Roy was the president of this and that, hall of fame guy, Order of Canada recipient, et cetera and et cetera. But that isn’t how we remember him;
we look for an old pair of blue jeans and the “Hullo, how are you?” kind of stuff. Having reverted to hypocritism again, I immediately looked back to meeting him for the first time in those old Army huts in Saskatoon. Feeling at home entering an army hut, YT went in and introduced himself. There were a few distinguished fellows in that room and one farmer. Well, (he looked like one anyway!), and after a short while I realized that he was the one I had come to see! About time the Farmers Union people, printed a booklet for YT “The Coyotes Call”, and Mr. (ahem!) Atkinson, the president presented it. I felt that YT was eight feet tall! We met Roy many times after that, and were always glad to hear his cheery, “Hello Bob!” Lorne Clavert: Lorne is something else! And YT is sure glad that some of Lorne’s ideas about the future of our province,
are being followed. There are a lot of influential folks who think more of their own destinies than they do of the society around them, and having a conversation with someone who listens to your ideas, sure makes an impression on Yours Truly! It is a great consolation to many of us, that far, far from politics, the other, more meaningful side of things (namely the Ten Commandments) are being considered too! Because Betty is a Perdue girl, and Lorne was our minister one time, we sure look forward to meeting them on the street! Zennon Pohorecky: Like many other people Yours Truly has always been interested in Saskatchewan’s past. I’m not sure that it will ever make me a millionaire, but it is at least an interest . . . YT(still being a kind of Hypocrite, notice that I put YT first!) originally met Zennon at an
A big win for Car Seat safety . . . Ashlee Nurcombe (third from left, back row) and her wee ones, were the lucky winners of a $1,000 RESP by having her child seats checked at a SGI Child Restraint Inspection Clinic. Every person throughout the province that had their car seat checked was entered to win the prize, and Ashlee was the grand prize winner. Here, she is surrounded by Biggar SGI employees who, no doubt, were a bit reluctant to give back the two cuties. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Big donation from Landis to new lodge project . . . Kent Ferguson of the Landis United Church hands over a cheque for a huge $10,000 to Friends of the Lodge’s, Jo Angelopoulous. The donation is a massive boost to making the Diamond Lodge’s replacement a reality. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
archaeological meeting in Saskatoon, many years ago. I’d like to say that I was a bigshot in the group, but I wasn’t. When Tom Phoenix introduced me to Pohorecky, I could hardly pronounce his name! Everyone there seemed to call him “Porky”! I met Zennon many times after that, a group of us (including him!) went to Regina together in the 1960’s and the S.A.S. (Saskatchewan Archaeological Society!) was formed at that time. The last time I remember him, was at a meeting in Rosetown, where he laughed as he called me “Bob”. He was a very famous man, and I sure felt proud! Edward Ahenekew: I think that a lot of us (including me!) have missed an awful lot by not knowing Edward Ahenekew. YT’s only connection with him was that he helped one of my Uncles on his farm one time! Ahenekew was born in 1885 on the Sandy Lake Reserve. (Ahtahkakoop) west of Canwood, not too far away from my uncle’s farm north of Parkside. But I never met the man. While on construction of the highway west of there many years ago YT took one of our puppy dogs up to Freda Ahenekew, a teacher at Sandy Lake who took it home to Ahtahkakoop
and named it “Bobby”. Bobby Ahenekew! anyone would be proud, eh? There are a lot of Ahenekews on Sandy Lake (Hello George Bird!), most of them quite notable in Saskatchewan history - the rest are just ordinary guys like us! Reverend Edward Ahenkew became a minister of his church, and did an awful lot to assist in the making of our cultures! We may never see the like of him again, but will sure see the likes of what he stood for! Bill Perehudoff: I must have written about Bill, half a dozen times before, although I can’t recall what I wrote, and hopefully the reader can’t recall it either here goes! When Yours Truly was a boy, wandering along the hills ion the north side of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, he often noticed a big square house silhouetted atop the higher hills on the other side. It was in the 1930’s, during the Great Depression, and I never did find out who lived there until many years later! Years Later: When the Farmers Union presented YT with that small book “The Coyotes Call” in the 1960’s, we found out that a guy named Bill Perehudoff, from Modern Press in Saskatoon, had
illustrated it. And on checking with then, I met him, and found out that he had been raised in that big square house! It was the first time in our lives that we had ever met! Bill had been born in Langham in 1919 - and, one million miles away (across the river!) Yours Truly had been born in 1919 too! All his young life Bill had admired the view down that valley, and on the slopes of the other side, YT had often sat and dreamed . . . What a wonderful place the “Great Bend” was, and yet we had never met! Bill became fairly famous as an artist and his paintings can be found in galleries all over Canada. I drove into Bill’s yard, west of Langham a few times in the last couple of years, and though there were some buildings all over the place (including that big square house!), the whole place seemed empty!` I headed across the river to where our old home place used to be, and it seemed kind of empty too. I like to think though, that much of Bills inspiration had come from having lived by that big wonderful valley, and that far from his fame rubbing off on YT, when that valley had overfilled his palette, a little spilled over into this pen! Still a hypocrite, eh?
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 7
Give the gift that gives all year . . .
Diamond Lodge News club morning again for 10 people. The bacon smell made a lot of mouths water. To end the day we played Christmas music and sang along with it. Saturday morning after breakfast the residents gathered into the activity room and played jackpot bingo. The afternoon we
948-3344 Biggar Community Í
by Taylor Darroch and Sabrina Yurchak Well, it sure is beginning to look a lot like Christmas! And with Christmas comes a very busy schedule for the school. Yesterday our SRC cooked up a Christmas lunch so students and staff were able to purchase ham, scalloped potatoes and veggies. On that same day, Candy Cane O’Grams went on sale in the high school end. Today, our school received a special visitor for PK - 3 pictures with Santa, and finally, tomorrow, our high school students will participate in our annual room decorating competition. Next week will see many spirit days: Monday -
2004 Chev Silverado ½ ext 4x4, silver,
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Lazy/PJ Day, Tuesday - Formal Day, Wednesday - Nerd Day, Thursday - Ugly Christmas Sweater/Hat Day, and Friday - Red and Green Day. We hope to see each student and staff with multiple entries into the big draws on the last day of classes! This past weekend our Junior Boys’ basketball team held their home tournament and played very well! Our Senior Boys play Delisle here at home today at 5 and then travel to Unity this weekend for their first tournament. On Monday at 4:30 our Senior Girls will play a home game against Asquith. Hope you can come out to cheer our home teams on!
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watched a Christmas movie to start being in the holiday spirit. Sunday was spa morning. The residents got their nails done and had massages. The Sunday church service this week is the Seventh Day Adventist.
Majestic Theatre DECEMBER SHOWS
Í
Friday, DECEMBER 14 Saturday, DECEMBER 15 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16
8:00 p.m.
Randy Weekes, M.L.A. for the Biggar Constituency 1-877-948-4880 OfÀce Hours: Monday - Friday 1 - 5 p.m. Phone: 306-948-4880 106 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar Fax: 306-948-4882 e-mail: randyweekes.mla@accesscomm.ca
Web site: www.randyweekes.ca P. O. Box 1413 Biggar, SK. S0K 0M0
“SKY FALL -- James Bond” Friday, DECEMBER 21 Saturday, DECEMBER 22 8:00 p.m.
Community Club provided us a delicious lunch. Thursday morning we had exercises. At 2:30 the Landis CWL came and planned bingo for this month. They gave our Christmas prizes and provided a lunch after the program. Friday was Breakfast
Happy December everyone! I hope everyone has been staying inside the last few days since it is very chilly and snowy out. Here at Diamond Lodge we are starting to get into the Christmas spirit. The Christmas decorations are put up throughout the building. The trees are nicely decorated. Monday we started with our usual exercises. Then in the afternoon we played Christmas Jeopardy. The residents had fun trying to guess Christmas tunes and holiday traditions from around the world. Tuesday morning we had our weekly current events. Then that afternoon we did a Christmas craft. We wrapped up boxes and put them under our Christmas tree. They will be under our tree until Christmas morning when Santa brings up his gifts for us. We d n e s d ay wa s birthday party night! Unfortunately some of our invited guests were not able to come due to the weather. Country II played and the Pinwherry
“Pitch Perfect”
Saturday, DECEMBER 29 Sunday, DECEMBER 30 Monday, DECEMBER 31
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 2
For bookings and information please phone Bear Hills RDC @ 306-948-2295 This space is courtesy of The Biggar Independent
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
8 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Just horsing around
by Calvin Daniels
Any regular reader will know I have a soft spot for draft horses. I must say the interest is one which surprises me a little given that
on the farm as a kid there were no horses, if you don’t count Trixie, a rather small Shetland Pony which ate hay and grain but never seemed
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to be of much use beyond that. Of course there were my father’s stories about working horses when he himself was a school-aged boy. He loved working in the field when he was barely a teenager behind a team of horses. His love was deep enough he quit school part way through Grade 8 to work the fields. I suspect those stories were the kernel which sprouted my interest in draft horses. Then as a youngster I spent many summers showing livestock at summer fairs. When you are just a kid there is no way that walking through a barn full of draft horses their sheer size left me in awe. And once those horses
were in a showring, the silver on their harness shining, it was a spectacle which always caught my attention. Even today I am in awe of the big horses, and still love watching them. It amazes me to watch the horses at work, in particular the draft horse pulls at the annual Grain Millers Harvest Showdown. Watching a well-trained team leaning into the harness, and pulling two, three times their own weight is actually awe-inspiring. So a couple of years ago when I heard Merlin Ford was working toward a book on the influence draft horses have had in the development of Saskatchewan, I was immediately intrigued. I met with Merlin back
then, and found him a definite kindred spirit when it came to draft horses. He was a man with a respect for the big horses and their contribution to not just farm, but in logging, cartage in our towns and cities and just about every other aspect of provincial development requiring a power source. It took Merlin a long time to ferret out draft horse history from across Saskatchewan, but he kept at it, and recently released Horses, Harness and Homesteads. The book is loaded with information, and more importantly pageafter-page of historic pictures. It was a major undertaking given the draft horse has been
part of developing Saskatchewan from the time of the earliest settlers before the region was actually a province. “One of the challenges in compiling this book has been the amount of information that could be included. Horses played such a vital role in our history that it would be virtually impossible to cover it extensively in a book of this length,” noted Merlin in the forward to the book. The book is one anyone with an interest in horses, the early days of our province, and rural history will want to check out. I tip my hat to Merlin for his hard work in gathering this history before it was lost forever.
Government helps oat growers expand markets The Canadian oat industry will be able to grow new international markets with an investment from the Harper government. Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, December 6, announced that the Prairie Oat Growers Association will receive an investment to help boost the industry’s sales internationally. “Our government’s top priority remains the economy, and Canada’s agriculture and agrifood industry plays an important role in creating jobs and keeping our economy strong,” said Ritz. “This investment will position Canada as an international leader
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in the oat industry, enhancing its global marketing capacity and competitiveness.” The $100,000 investment through the AgriMarketing Program will help the Prairie Oat Growers Association increase export of oats and oat products to the U.S. equine market and educate horse owners and equine advisors on the benefits of Canadian oats for equines. “The AgriMarketing funding is being used toward the Prairie Oat Growers Association’s efforts to reclaim lost equine feed markets for oats in North America,” said BillWilton,President of the Association. “Oat
exports declined by 700,000 metric tonnes from 1994 to 2011, and it’s critical to Canadian oat producers that we reclaim that market. The AgriMarketing funding is imperative for producer-funded commodity groups that have no advocate to expand markets in agriculture products like oats.” The Prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba produce an average of about 90 per cent of Canada’s oats, with the majority grown in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In 2011, oats provided $425 million in farm cash receipts to these Western provinces.
Through the AgriMarketing Program under Growing Forward, the Harper government is investing $88 million to help industry implement long-term international strategies, including international market development, industryto-industry trade advocacy, and consumer awareness and branding activities. The Harper government has identified market development as a priority under Growing Forward 2, and this announcement is another example of what is being done to enhance competitiveness and drive innovation and long-term growth in Canadian agriculture.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 9
CWB announces new pools and pricing options for farmers CWB last Thursday announced it will launch two new pools for farmers, including one that enables each farmer to choose their own price based on futures values. The Winter Pool will operate like traditional pools, and features a sixmonth pooling period that enables farmers to capture late-season prices, without risking the daily volatility of the cash market. The Futures Choice Winter Pool provides the same benefits of the Winter Pool, with the flexibility for farmers to choose futures values in order to capture market peaks. “These exciting new
marketing tools have been developed in response to farmer feedback and grain-pricing needs,” said CWB president and CEO Ian White. “Farmers who have not yet committed their grain now have new options. Those who believe the latter part of this crop year will return high prices can take advantage of the Winter Pool to achieve the seasonal average. Or, they can use the Futures Choice Winter Pool to choose the specific times when they think futures values are at or near their highest. Both pools give farmers access to CWB’s marketing expertise plus contract flex-
ibility regarding delivery options and management of grade risk.” The Winter Pool opens December 12 to farmer sign-up for various classes and grades of wheat, durum and canola. The sign-up deadline is February 15, with delivery guaranteed by July 31. Fa r m e r s c a n s w i t c h grades at no cost until the sign-up deadline, or switch to an available cash contract for a nominal fee. The Futures Choice Winter Pool is open to Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat and is based on Minneapolis Grain Exchange futures. Farmers can sign
Principal’s report BCS2000 Pr The countdown is really on now! Very few days of school left before we are off for some time with our families and friends for the holiday season. As you will see in the SRC news, the school is buzzing with Christmas activities to celebrate the season. It is the most wonderful time of the year for sure! As many of you know, I am expecting my second child in mid-February, and will be taking my year of maternity leave beginning at that same time. The announcement was made to staff this week that Terry Braman, current vice-principal, will act as principal in the time that I am away from school. Natalie Chupik, also current viceprincipal, will remain in her position for the time I am away as well. We will not be hiring a third
administrator, but will be hiring a teacher to cover the classes I teach as well as some other classes to allow Mr. Braman and Ms. Chupik more time for administrative duties. I know that the school will be in very capable hands while I am gone, which makes leaving to take time with my family much easier. Did you know that every person is born with an invisible bucket? That bucket is only filled with good feelings and love. We can fill one another’s buckets, and our own, by being kind and caring. We can also take from someone else’s bucket and be a “bucket-dipper” by being unkind to someone. This also takes out of our own bucket as we don’t feel good when we don’t treat others well. The ideas for this come
from the Web site bucketfilling101.com. I have had the opportunity to read the story “Have You Filled a Bucket Today?” to most of our elementary classes, and will finish reading to the rest hopefully this week. Ask your child what they did to fill someone’s bucket today, and tell them when they have filled yours! It is a simple idea that has a lot of meaning to our children when they hear the story. We will be getting copies in to our library soon if you are interested in signing the story out to read at home as well. As we head into the holiday season, it is a great time to highlight the ideas of love and kindness with our children. Good luck to all of you as you wrap up your holiday shopping and preparations!
JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS! BOOK LAUNCH of Pat Trask’s “The Man Behind Handsome”
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 19 2 - 4 p.m. Biggar Museum & Gallery 105 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar Come join Pat for coffee and dainties! Also available mid-December at The Biggar Independent,The Rosetown Eagle, or phone Pat @ 306-656-4722 or email: pattrask@sasktel.net
up between January 7 and February 15, then lock in a futures value of their choice any time before June 21, with delivery guaranteed by July 31. Compared to cash contracts, the Futures Choice Winter Pool provides basis pooling, more grade flexibility, grade and protein spreads that represent the market for the pooling period, and the ability to market through any participating grain-handling company. Target pricing will also be available. Both pools will operate on a first-come, firstserved basis and may close before the sign-up deadlines if maximum pool tonnage is reached. CWB’s first Pool Return Outlooks for the Winter Pools are available in full at cwb.ca/pro with reference grades included: 1 CWRS 13.5 - 362.00 (PRO); 261.20 (CWB Initial Payment). 1 CWAD 12.5 - 354.00 (PRO); 257.00 (CWB Ini-
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tial Payment). 1 Canada canola - 625.00 (PRO); 475.00 (CWB Initial Payment). CWB will publish the Futures Choice Winter Pool PRO by the time sign up begins on January 7. Given current PRO assumptions, farmers in the Futures Choice Winter Pool can expect to achieve a final return
for 1 CWRS 13.5 in store port position made up of the futures value they lock in plus 5 to 10 dollars per tonne. “Choosing a pooling option is a great way to stabilize grain price fluctuations and generate returns from across markets,” White said. “Our focus is to maximize value for farmers.”
Cover the province with one phone call. Place a blanket classifi classified ed . . . for more information call
948-3344
10 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Amanda shows off a ring from Dustin. The pair have just completed a triathlon. (Submitted Photo August 26 was a memorable day for Dustin Brown and Amanda Adock. They took part in the Ironman Triathlon in Penticton, British Columbia. This was Dustin’s first Ironman with a completion time of 14 hours, 2 minutes, 19 seconds. Amanda completed it in 11 hours, 39 minutes, 48 seconds. This was her fourth Ironman. The triathlon consists of : 3.8 kilometres, 180 kilometre bike, 42.2 kilometre run. At the finish line, Dustin proposed to Amanda. Dustin is the son of Lavern Brown of Biggar.
Bowling scores for week beginning December 4 by Karen McPherson Tuesday mixed league: MHS -- Jason Raschke, 231; LHS -- Nicole Cirrico, 187; MHT -- Jason Raschke, 568; LHT -Donna Foster, 485. New Horizons: MHS -- Jack Eckart, 2235; LHS -- Donna Eckart, 174; MHM -- Jack Eck-
art, 607; LHS -- Donna Eckart, 500. YBC, Wednesday: Bowlasaurus HS -- Kiersten Raschke, 93; Bantam HS -- Justin Cirrico, 143; Junior HS -- Jayden Rensby, 158. Thursday Senior league: MHS -- Geoff Cooke, 206; LHS -- Dianna Meger, 210; MHT -- Geoff Cooke, 548; LHT -- Judy Hammond, 512.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Pirates didn’t have Wheaties for breakfast . . . Perdue Pirate Garret Poletz fights of the check as they played the visiting Radisson Wheat Kings, Friday at
the Jubilee. Pirates lost an entertaining, hard-fought matchup, 7-3. (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Report of the 27th Annual Big Buck night Held December 7 in the Sonningdale Hall, there was over 250 in attendance and 38 heads were scored by Jim Weibe, Milo Hanson and Jim Vancha. T y p i c a l W h i t e Ta i l Deer: Big Buck - First Kori Kallis, Dalmeny, 174 4/8; Second K en Andreas, Biggar, 166 1/8. Youth (16 and under) - First Austin Custer, Baljennie, 154 2/8; Second Riley Tallis, Langham, 141 2/8. Good Old Boys (55 and over) - Ron Danielson, Sonningdale, 122 6/8; Second No entry. Ladies - First Sandi Kushner, Biggar, 158 7/8; Second Diane Bar-
Jim Wiebe presents the trophy to Kori Kallis (174 4/8 Typical) and Cody Zyznomirski (199 7/8). (Submitted Photo) rington Saskatoon, 148 2/8. Non Typical White Tail Deer: Big Buck - First Cody
Zyznomirski, Mayfair, 199 7/8; Second Kurtis Domak, Sonnigdale, 166 1/8. Youth - No entries. Good Old Boys - First
Kevin O’Driscoll, Cando, 172 0/8; Second No entry. Ladies - Shirley Meechance, Cando, 173 1/8; Second No entry.
Strate Shooter . . .
Perdue’s Chuck Strate (photo, left) celebrates, December 7 as he made a winning shot to pocket over $300. A bit of holiday cash in his pocket - Christmas came early! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
THE INDEPENDENT , BIGGAR, SK - 11
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Draw Date, just in time for Christmas! DECEMBER 21st
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12 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
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Main Street, Biggar 948-3337
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THE INDEPENDENT , BIGGAR, SK - 13
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE SEASONS ARE CHANGING YOUR TIRES SHOULD TOO
Westwinds Motor Hotel r
D
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Beverage Room with Cold Beer, Wine & Liquor Store
New Year’s Eve
MONDAY, DECEMBER 31
Save up to $8 0 Observe GSi5 on select sets of 4 and other Toy o Tires Valid until De cember 15 th, 2012
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CUSTOMER Appreciation DAY
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FRIDAY, DEC. 14 • 5 - 8 p.m. AT PARTICIPATING STORES
uvres Drinks and Hors d’oeuvres
Show: ‘Taming Susan’, 9:30, Fri. & Sat. Dec 15 Needing a night out but don’t want to drive… leave that to us!
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14 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Countdown Thurs., Dec. 13
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Biggar Hotel “Serving the Community Since 1909”
ROCKIN’ NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY Monday, December 31
with Supreme DJ • Full show with BIG screen • Awesome Lights • Glow toys and any song you wanna hear
• Party favours • Midnight Bubbly • Drink Specials • Midnight Lunch
You’re invited, after the busy holiday season, to put your feet up at our
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 15
New Beginnings Wellness Centre Wayne Baldwin, PFT, CPTA, CNHC “Putting PERSONAL back into fitness training!”
INTRODUCING…
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Friday, January 11, 5 - 9 p.m.
› Cold Beer and Liquor Store Open: Monday to Saturday • 10 a.m. and Sunday • 12 noon 115 - 1st Avenue West, Biggar
948-3641
114 - 2nd Ave. W., Biggar
Call 948-2548
Ask about our Steak Night Fundraisers for your non-profit organization.
YEAR END
LUBE SALE
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16 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Report from the Legislature by Randy Weekes, MLA, Biggar (6 December, 2012) Meeting the Challenges of Growth With Saskatchewan growing faster than it has in almost a hundred years, our government took action during the fall sitting of the legislature to ensure that growth continues. We also took measures that will allow us to continue to meet the challenges of growth. When we learned school divisions were facing unexpected pressure due to increased enrolment, we used the benefits of growth to provide more resources to them. Eight of the province’s fastest-growing school divisions received an additional $6.6 million in mid-year funding to provide education services and find space for new students. We also committed $800,000 to start a process that will
result in 40 to 50 new relocatable classrooms by the start of the 2013-14 school year. In a growing economy, you need to have a labour environment in which the rights and responsibilities of employers, employees and unions are clearing defined. To that end, our government introduced The Saskatchewan Employment Act during the fall sitting of the legislature. This new act includes changes such as indexing the minimum wage to the rate of inflation, requiring unions to disclose financial statements and the results of votes to members and removing a union’s right to fine workers who cross picket lines. The Saskatchewan Employment Act also preserves things like the 40-hour work week. The fall session also included the government’s mid-year financial report, which was reflective
of the strength of the Saskatchewan economy. While resource revenues were down, strength in other parts of our e c o n o m y, i n c l u d i n g a g r o w i n g t a x b a s e, allowed Saskatchewan to maintain a balanced budget. We continue to be the only province in the country where the books are balanced. Successfully managing growth also means taking a critical look at how things have been done in the past and what can be done to improve them. During the fall legislative session, our government not only announced major changes to Saskatchewan’s liquor laws, we also moved forward with a plan that will see full line, privately owned liquor stores in the province. This is an extension of our already blended private-public retailing system. We have maintained that the existing SLGA stores will
remained publicly owned, but these new, privately owned stores will address our province’s growing needs. The process to award these liquor stores will be transparent and competitive. The request for proposal process is already underway for the three new stores, two in Saskatoon and one in Regina. Another significant, exciting change was the announcement of legislation which will allow for a public share offering in the Information Services Corporation
(ISC). This could generate as much as $120 million for the province. We also introduced and passed the Saskatchewan Advantage Grant for Education Savings to help families save for the children’s post-secondary education. The needless death of a young woman working on a highway crew this summer led to new legislation to improve safety in the Orange Zone. The fall session followed the direction laid out in the Saskatchewan Plan for Growth. This
plan is not about growth for growth’s sake. It is about using the benefits of growth to improve the quality of life for everyone. It was this principle that we followed over the last two months. We commit to continuing to follow this principle to move our province forward, ensuring that Saskatchewan remains the best place in Canada to live, work and raise a family. If you have a question about this Legislative report or any other matter, just contact Randy.
2012 Time capsule placed in Legislative cornerstone Last Thursday, Premier Brad Wall placed the 2012 time capsule into the cornerstone at the Legislative Building in the same location where the 1909 time capsule was removed late last year. “Not only does the time
capsule help commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Legislative Building, it will provide future generations with a representation of our province in 2012,” Wall said. “Future generations will get a glimpse into our growing province and see how we
Holiday Stress Generally the holiday season is associated with good cheer and getting together with loved ones. But for many, the holiday season also brings anxiety. Make the season less stressful by maintaining your regular routine as much as possible. Get enough sleep. Eat nutritious meals and exercise. Plan ahead for shopping and social situations. Try to enjoy yourself instead of striving for perfection. Talk about your anxieties with a family member or friend. You may find you’re not alone in your concerns.
Heartland Health Region Board Meeting The next Board meeting will be held Wednesday, December 19th, 2012 in Rosetown. Board packages can be obtained from the Regional Corporate Office within one week of the meeting. Please call the office to arrange for printing and pick up. Contact Christa Garrett at 306-882-4111 ext 236 or by e-mail christa.garrett@hrha.sk.ca
For toll-free health information 24 hours a day. Please call 1-888-425-4444(TTY) if you have hearing or speech difficulties 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
Heartland Health Region www.hrha.sk.ca
worked together to make Saskatchewan stronger.” Members of the public were asked for suggestions for the time capsule’s contents. Approximately three quarters of the final list of chosen items was comprised of these suggestions. The remaining items were chosen by an advisory committee based on a list of categories and set criteria with recommendations from other ministries in specific subject areas. “This project captivated the people of Saskatchewan,” Minister responsible for the Provincial Capital Commission Kevin Doherty said. “We received hundreds of suggestions from citizens across the province on what to include in the new capsule. This is a magnificent collection of items that truly reflects what makes Saskatchewan unique and will show future generations the rich diversity of our province.” Each of the time capsule items was processed by a conservator before being placed inside the time capsule. The bottom of the capsule was then sealed using tungsten inert gas welding. Argon was then pumped into the time capsule through a valve to remove any air or moisture to prepare it to be tucked away for the next century. The 2012 time capsule was a part of the province’s year-long celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Legislative Building. For more information about the time capsule or any of the other centennial initiatives, please visit opcc.gov.sk.ca/ leg100.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
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OBITUARIES Cecilia Frances Dick October 4, 1929 December 9, 2012 Cecilia was born in the Leipzig district on October 4, 1929 to Ludwig and Frances and received her education at Leipzig, Sask. She married John Joseph ‘J.J.’ Dick on October 18, 1948 at Landis, Sask. They lived in Landis and then moved to Biggar, Sask. when J.J. began working on the railroad. She began working in the hospital kitchen in Biggar and later obtained her Food Service Technician Certificate. She enjoyed fishing, cards especially Kaiser, flowers, birds and her greatest enjoyment was her family. Cecilia is survived by her children… daughter, Donna (Dale) Meier of Luseland, Sask. and her sons, Trevor Bergfeldt (James), Troy (Jennifer) Bergfeldt and their son, Noah; son, Barry (Sharon) Dick of Saskatoon, Sask. and their three daughters, Melissa (Jason) and their children, Dylan and Jada, Andrea (Ryan) and their daughter, Madelyn, Karla (Steven); brother, Arnold Stark of Saskatoon, Sask.; and sister, Edna Hayes of Cranbrook, B.C.; and several nieces, nephews and extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, John Joseph ‘J.J.’ (1996); parents, Ludwig and Frances Stark; brother, Ted; sisters, Mary and Agnes. Prayers were held on Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 7 p.m. and Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, December 12, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. from St. Gabriel’s Roman Catholic Church, Biggar, Sask. with Father Michel Bedard as celebrant. Eulogist was Trevor Bergfeldt. Music was by St. Gabriel’s Church Choir. Honourary Pallbearers were all those who shared in Cecilia’s life. Active Pallbearers were Trevor Bergfeldt, Troy Bergfeldt, Jason Kennon, Ryan Symon, Steve Spagrud, Gustavo Lovero. Interment followed in Biggar Cemetery, Biggar, Sask. Tributes may be directed to Lung
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 17
OBITUARIES Association of Saskatchewan, 1231 - 8th St. E., Saskatoon, SK S7H 0S5 Grondin Funeral Service, Biggar was entrusted with arrangements, “Our family serving your family since 1963”. gfsc1
MEMORIAMS SMITH, Norman and Florence, and LOCKWOOD, Florence… Our Dad/Grandpa, March 29, 1925 - December 20, 1995; Our Mom/Nannie, March 27, 1930 April 23, 1997; Mom/Grandma/ Great-grandma, March 23, 1912 - June 17, 1995. “In our hearts and minds at Christmas”. Missing you and thinking of you everyday. … Kelly, Floyd, Amanda (Ryan), Jeffrey and Makenzie 50c1 MERKLEY, Catharine: January 1, 1915 - December 17, 2010 “Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way. No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts you’re always there.” … your family 50p1 MUC, Tom: November 26, 1959 - December 23, 2005 “The flowers we lay upon your grave May wither and decay But for you who lies beneath Our love will never fade away.” Each day you are in our memories, love Mom, Clayton, Amy, Jerry, Brent and Brenda 50p1
CARD OF THANKS The Community of Springwater and district would like to thank the local businesses for their generous donations to the Springwater Community Hall. 50p1 We would like to say thank you to everybody that came to our first candle lighting service. Thanks to the Library and staff for helping with this evening. We have open a shelf at the Library about books of grief. If you would like to donate a book, please do and talk to Darlene at the Library. …sincerely,Trudy and Jan 50p1
COMING EVENTS SUNDAYS in December: Presbyterians, Anglicans, Lutherans will be worshipping at St. Paul’s Anglican Church at 10:30 a.m. except December 16 which will be a service of Lessons and Carols at 7:00 p.m. with a visit from Santa and treats and fellowship to follow. For pastoral services please contact Pastor Mark Kleiner at 306-9517122 or the office at 948-3731. 48/10tfn SUNDAYS… You are invited to the weekly services of Biggar Associated Gospel Church, corner Quebec St. and 8th Ave. West; Sunday School at 9:45 a.m.; Worship Service at 10:50 a.m.; an Ladies Bible Study at 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday mornings. Everyone is welcome to join us. Contact our church office 948-33424, Tuesday through Thursday. 36tfn November 13 - December 15: Biggar Museum Annual Christmas Magic Silent Auction held in The Credit Union Gallery at the Biggar Museum. Open Tuesday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Saturday, 1- 5 p.m. through noon hour for your bidding convenience. Bid often on this year’s fantastic items and purchase your Toonie Lotto ticket. 45c6 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15: Join us for an afternoon of entertainment in The Credit Union Gallery at the closing of Biggar Museum’s Annual Christmas Magic Silent Auction. Bidding closes at 3:00 p.m. Toonie Lotto draw. Be in attendance for door prizes. 48c3 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16: 2 p.m., Our Lady of Fatima and Friends Parish Choir presents ‘A Gift of Music’ at Our Lady of Fatima Church, Landis. Desserts to follow. Silver collection, proceeds to the choir. 48c3 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2: 1 - 4 p.m., Biggar Youth Travel Club bottle drive. If you will not be home but would like to donate bottles, please leave on your front step for pick up. Farm families wanting to donate may call Raelynne Hooper, 306-2374441. Proceeds to Biggar Youth Travel Club. 50c2 SATURDAY, JANUARY 12: Biggar & District Arts Council presents…JOHN WORT HANNAM, 7:30 p.m., Biggar Majestic Theatre. Adults/ Seniors $25 (advance $20); Students, 13 and older $15 (advance $12); children, 12 and under $5. Advance and Season Tickets available at de Moissac Jewellers, Biggar, 948-2452. 48c6
INVITATIONS Happy A special thank you to our family and friends who came from near and far to join with us in celebrating our 50th Wedding Anniversary on December 1st. Thanks for the phone calls, the flowers, cards, special greetings, radio announcements and gifts. We feel so truly blessed to have you all in our lives. God bless you all. … Bob and Vi McCarty
You are invited to a
Come & Go Dance in honour of
Mary McGowan’s birthday
Sunday, Dec. 16 2 - 5 p.m. Biggar Community Hall Music by Leon Ochs
For FAX service, see us at The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar
NOTICE 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 9483451 or visit museum 1 - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday. 7tfn This newspaper accepts advertisements in good faith. We advise that it is in your interest to investigate offers personally. Publications by this paper should not be taken as an endorsement of the product or service offered. tfn Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com. tfn
TENDER Tenders accepted until 5:30pm December 15/12 for sale or lease of Simpson Co-op Garage. Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted. For information: (306) 8362055. Send tenders: Box 310, Simpson, Sask. S0G 4M0
MISCELLANEOUS I m fundingwhat.com Help us end the waste of 2 million health care dollars in Saskatchewan. Check this website for information Winter Tires for Sale…4 winter tires (Federal Himalaya) 225/60/ R16. These tires were on a 2006 Dodge Caravan. Tires have been used for only four months. Call 306-932-2214 50p3 BOSCH Mixer 800watt $459 w/specials pls call, VITAMIX Blenders $549, Breadmakers, ACTIFRY, Pasta makers, Lefse Grills & more call Hometech Regina 1-888-692-6724 AT LAST! An iron filter that works. IronEater! Fully patented Canada/U.S.A. Removes iron, hardness, smell, manganese. Since 1957. Visit our 29 innovative inventions: www. bigirondrilling.com. Phone 1-800-BIG-IRON.
MISCELLANEOUS
Moose Jaw, SK Give the Gift of WARMTH with Temple Gardens Gift Cards this Holiday Season! To Purchase: Onlinetemplegardens.sk.ca Toll Free 1-800-718-7727 Visit our Kiosk at the Northgate Mall in Regina from (Nov 26 - Dec 24) Or directly at the Hotel Available in dollar amounts of $25 - $500 Escape to Saskatchewan’s Favourite Destination!! DISCONNECTED PHONE? ChoiceTel Home Phone Service. No One Refused! Low Monthly Rate! Calling Features and Unlimited Long Distance Available. Call ChoiceTel Today! 1-888-333-1405. www. choicetel.ca. P R O V I N C E - W I CLASSIFIEDS. Reach 550,000 readers weekly. this newspaper NOW or 649.1405 for details.
D E over Call 306-
BIG BUILDING SALE... “THIS IS A CLEARANCE SALE. YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS!” 20x20 $3,985. 25X24 $4,595. 30X36 $6,859. 35X48 $11,200. 40X52 $13,100. 47X76 $18,265. One End wall included. Pioneer Steel 1-800-668-5422. www. pioneersteel.ca.
WANTED Old battery collection, Fisher #300 Cadet Squadron. Drop off at the Biggar Landfill OR contact Quentin Sittler at 658-2132 3tfn Main Street Garage Sale is accepting donations of all items in clean and working condition. Please phone 948-1773 or 9485393. Pickup available. 32tfn
Check classifieds, photos/videos online @ biggarindependent.ca
18 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
CARS & TRUCKS Guaranteed approval drive away today! We lend money to everyone. Fast approvals, best interest rates. Over 500 vehicles sale priced for immediate delivery OAC. 1-877-796-0514. www.yourapprovedonline.com.
RECREATION 1985 Yamaha Virago, 1,000 cc, new rubber, carbs and forks redone. Phone 948-7521. 36tfn 1985 Honda Goldwing, new rubber, shocks redone this spring, new battery, $3500 obo; phone 948-3344 34tfn
HOUSES FOR SALE
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
402 - 7th Ave. East, Biggar… well-built, 3-bedroom home, completely renovated, gutted down to framing, custom cabinets, maple hardwood flooring, energy efficient package and many more up-grades. REDUCED, now $209,000. Must Sell. Call Brenda, 306-373-8254 or 948-9280. 38tfn
BEAR/DEER OUTFITTING BUSINESS in Duck Mountains. GHA18-18C. 25 bear & 18 deer tags. Can be divided. Visit www. grandviewoutfitters.ca. Contact Tom Ainsworth 204-546-2751.
SEED & FEED H EATED CANOLA WANTED!! - GREEN CANOLA - SPRING THRASHED - DAMAGED CANOLA FEED OATS WANTED!! - BARLEY, OATS, WHT - LIGHT OR TOUGH - SPRING THRASHED HEATED FLAX WANTED!! HEATED PEAS HEATED LENTILS "ON FARM PICKUP" Westcan Feed d & Grain 1-877-250-5252
REAL ESTATE Two serviced lots, side by side in Biggar, 100’x140’, $79,900. Call 717-4681 (cell) 5tfn
LAND for SALE NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS! To Freshwater Land Holding Co. Ltd. We were very pleased with Doug's service and knowledge of farm real estate. We felt very comfortable dealing with him and were happy with the outcome. Trent and Michele Ebner
PURCHASING: SINGLE T O LARGE BLOCKS OF LAND. PREMIUM PRICES PAID WITH QUICK PAYMENT. YMENT. RENT BACK AVAILABLE SUMMARY OF SOLD PROPERTIES Central - 62 1/4’s South Central - 17 1/4’s East Central - 74 1/4’s South - 70 1/4’s South East - 22 1/4’s South West 58 1/4’s North - 6 1/4’s North West - 8 1/4’s East - 39 1/4’s Call DOUG 306-955-2266 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.cafarmland.com
HOUSES FOR SALE
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
FOR RENT Charter/ Sherwood Apartments 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom Heat and water supplied, wired for cable TV and satellite systems, laundry facilities, appliances, some suites with dishwashers, air conditioning, parking with plug-ins. For more information call: Karen/Kevin • 948-9115 302 - 8th Ave. W. • Biggar
HEALTH/ WELLNESS GET 50% OFF - Join Herbal Magic this week and get 50% Off. Lose weight quickly, safely and keep it off, proven results! Call Herbal Magic today! 1-800854-5176.
TRAVEL HAWAII ON THE MAINLAND, healthy low-cost living can be yours. Modern Arenal Maleku Condominiums, 24/7 secured Community, Costa Rica “friendliest country on earth”! 1-780-952-0709; www.CanTico. ca. SNOWBIRDS! Parksville/ Qualicum, Vancouver Island, 600 sq. ft., one bedroom, one bathroom, fully furnished new cottage in forest setting. $975/month, utilities included. Available January 1, 2013. 250248-9899 or mawilsonis@shaw. ca.
SERVICES
If YOU are… • Moving • Expecting a Baby • Planning a Wedding • Anticipating Retirement Call WELCOME WAGON at 948-2563 - Lisa Haynes We have gifts and information www.welcomewagon.ca Bob Foster Locksmith Services. Phone 306-831-7633 26tfn
Deadline, Mondays 5 p.m.
CAREER TRAINING If you’re interested in real estate, then take Appraisal and Assessment, a specialized two-year business major at Lakeland College’s campus in Lloydminster, Alberta. Your training includes assessment principles, computerized mass appraisal valuation of properties, farmland evaluation and property analysis. Visit www. lakelandcollege.ca/realestate or phone 1 800 661 6490, ext. 5429. LEARN FROM HOME. EARN FROM HOME. Medical Transcriptionists are in demand. Lots of jobs! Enrol today for less than $95 a month. 1-800466-1535 www.canscribe.com admissions@canscribe.com
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY Accepting applicastions for part-time Laundry/Housekeeping, contract position under Sask. Assisted Living Services. Deadline December 21, 2012 Contact Bernie for details @ 948-2101.
Biggar United Church requires a part-time bookkeeper to perform general bookkeeping duties. This position will require approx. 3-5 hours monthly beginning January, 2013. Training will be provided. A computer with the Quick Books accounting program would be a deÀnite asset. Salary DOE. Please email resumes to bunitedchurch@accesscomm.ca or mail to Box 1259, Biggar, SK S0K 0M0 by December 20, 2012.
NEED A HOME PHONE? Cable TV or High Speed Internet? We Can Help. Everyone Approved. Call Today. 1-877-852-1122 Protel Reconnect
We are presently looking for Owner Operators and Company Drivers for our Flat Deck Fleet.
HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR TRAINING - Daily, Weekly and Monthly Rates. Call (306) 955-0079 for details!
- We offer excellent home time - No up-front cost - Satellite dispatch - Excellent rate along with fuel cap - Benefits package
Part-time waiter/waitress needed. See Maggie at Snow White Family Restaurant, Main Street, Biggar. 49c3 Coram Construction is hiring Carpenters and concrete finishers to work PCL sites in Saskatchewan. $32.55, Good benefits, 3-5 years experience. Join, fit and install formwork. E-mail: iknibbs@coram.ca Fax: 306-525-0990 Mail: 205-845 Broad Street Regina, SK S4R8G9 Sturgeon Lake Regional Park - PARK MANAGER. Full time May 1-Sept 30. Require people, organizational and leadership skills, mechanically inclined. Email: dljoelson@skvelocity.ca
SMALL ADS WORK You’re reading this one!
NORTHERN ALBERTA clearing contractor seeks experienced Buncher and Skidder Operators for work in Northern Alberta. Subsistence and accommodations provided; jobs@commandequipment. com. Fax 780-488-3002
TJ LOGGING of Whitecourt, Alberta is accepting resumes for experienced Heavy Duty Operators, Buncher, Hoe, Processor Dozer, Skidder, Delimber for immediate employment. Fax resume 780778-2428.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
If you are interested in these opportunities, you can contact Eddy at 306-651-4837 or Apply by visiting our website www.qlinetrucking.com or by sending resume, along with references to: hr@qlinetrucking.com or fax 306-242-9470
REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY: Journeyman Technician or Apprentice for large volume GM dealership in central Saskatchewan, town of 2000. Flat rate shop with lots of hours, excellent wage plan plus bonus, pension plan and health plan, moving allowance. Good sports community. Great place to raise children. Send résumé to: Watrous Mainline Motors, Box 70, Watrous, SK S0K 4T0 or call Gerald Merrifield or Don Campbell, 306-946-3336 or email gerald@watrousmainline.com or dcampbell@watrousmainline. com.
PUMP & COMPRESSOR Technician required for our Grande Prairie location. Experience an asset but will train suitable candidate. Submit resume to: hr@ pumpsandpressure.com.
W E L L - PA I D / L O W- S T R E S S Career in Massage Therapy. Get the best-quality RMT education without giving up your day job! Visit www.mhvicarsschool.com or call 1-866-491-0574 for free career information.
For Owner Operators we require late model power units, a safe driving record, and 2 years of deck experience, as well as Owner Operators who will be driving their own truck.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Speedway Moving Systems Requires O/O 1 tons 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
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THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 19
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Get plugged into a great career. At SaskPower, we generate more than just electricity for Saskatchewan residents. We offer some of the best career opportunities in the province.. There’s never been a better time to join our team. Challenging careers, competitive salaries, attractive benefits, professional development, career advancement and the chance to become involved in your community await you. For career opportunities check out our website at saskpower.com.
Power Line Technician Apprenticeship Positions (Job #CAAR-690346) Various Saskatchewan Locations Looking for an exciting and challenging career – SaskPower has it! SaskPower’s Power Line Technicians play a vital role in bringing electricity to homes and industry in Saskatchewan. Would you like to work outdoors, learn to climb power poles and become part of our team at SaskPower? SaskPower is looking for enthusiastic people interested in joining our team as Apprentice Power Line Technicians. Successful apprenticeships will result in Journeyed status which allows for a variety of career opportunities within SaskPower. Minimum qualifications include: 20-level Math (Math 20, Workplace and Apprenticeship 20; Foundations 20; or Pre-Calculus 20) and 10-level Science and/or Grade 12 diploma (no modified classes) or GED 12. You must be physically fit to meet the challenge of physically demanding work. Also, you must be able to work in all types of weather, capable of working at heights on poles, willing to relocate anywhere in the province, and possess a valid Class 5 driver’s licence. A valid Class 1 driver’s licence is considered an asset. Apprentice salary for this position starts at $25.41 per hour plus benefits. You have the option of applying online at saskpower.com, or by submitting making clear reference to the job # to our fax (306) 566-2087 or by mail to the attention of Carla at the address listed below. To be considered for this opportunity, your application must be accompanied by a copy of your high school transcripts, valid driver´s licence, and a driver’s abstract. You have the option of attaching these documents when you apply online at saskpower.com. Your application/resume and/or above mentioned accompanying documents must reach our office no later than January 14, 2013. We encourage you to view the Line Trade Video at saskpower.com prior to submitting your application. The closing date is January 14, 2013. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those being interviewed will be contacted. To apply online please visit saskpower.com, or send your resume making clear reference to the job #, to:
SaskPower Recruitment 2025 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 0S1 Fax 306.566.2087 Our goal is to have a workforce as diverse as the customers we serve.
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20 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
ELECTRICAL
REAL ESTATE
Saskatoon - Biggar Office
BIGGAR ELECTRICAL & REFRIGERATION SERVICES Authorized Appliance Depot Electrical Wiring Trenching Licensed Journeyman Adrian de Haan
DUANE NEUFELDT 403 Main St., Biggar
Licensed For: • Residential • Acreage • Farm
306-948-8055 Fax: 306-948-2763 www.DuaneNeufeldt.com
948-5291
Proud sponsor of Children’s Wish Foundation
PLUMBING & HEATING
Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for:
•Farm •Residential •Commercial •Acreage
Cell 948-9168 www.TimHammond.ca www.FarmsofCanada.com
Tim Hammond, BSA, P.Ag., Broker
Proud to handle Biggar’s Real Estate Needs
PLUMBING HEATING ELECTRICAL
For all your home, business and rural needs Owners/Operators • Travis Young • Dallas Young • Claude Young
Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for: •Residential
Biggar, Sask.
113 - 3rd Ave. W., Biggar
948-3389
948-5052 (office)
Journeymen Plumber, Gas Fitter, & Electrician on staff
Cell 948-7995 www.TimHammond.ca http://Cari.TimHammond.ca
Cari McCarty Residential Sales
Biggar’s Top Performing Residential Agent
Tim Hammond Realty Licenced for: •Farm •Acreage •Residential • Commercial rd
113 - 3 Ave. W., Biggar
948-5052 (office) Cell 948-4478 Dave Molberg BSA
www.TimHammond.ca www.FarmsofCanada.com
HOME IMPROVEMENTS McCARTY CONSTRUCTION • Commercial • Residential • Design Builder • Insurance Claims • Renovations • Drafting Service
“Big or Small -We Do Them All” Licenced Journeyman Carpenters Troy McCarty 948-5627 (H) 948-9280 (C) Mitch McCarty 373-8254 (H) Serving Biggar ... Since 1968
Exposure, Experience and Effort.
of The Battlefords Independently Owned and Operated
FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS… • Selling/Buying • Residental • Farm/Acreage • Commercial • Recreational
FOR RENT
ELECTRICAL
BIGGAR HOUSING AUTHORITY
DMH ELECTRIC
Housing for families and seniors Rent based on income
Call: 948-2101
BOOKS Pat Wicks,
Living Books Distributor 205-3rd Ave. East, Biggar Books, gifts, cards. Shop at my home! Call 948-3427 for appts.
ONLINE @
biggarindependent.ca
Inc.
Sales Associate
Cell: (306) 843-7898 Bus: (306) 446-8800 znerol.w@sasktel.net
FRE E Es timat Call us for… es • Insurance jobs • Renovations • New home building • Drywall & Painting • Flooring (hardwood, ceramic, etc.) • Residential/Commercial • CertiÀed installer for Logix ICF
for all your electrical needs Construction, consulting and Maintenance Licensed Journeyman
Dion Harrabek 306-948-2657 cell: 306-948-9136 dionh@sasktel.net
PHILLIPS ELECTRIC • Residence • Commercial Wiring For free estimates Ph: 948-5393
Cell: 306-221-6888
For all your roofing needs… ¬New Construction ¬Metal ¬Torch-on ¬Re-roofs ¬Tile ¬Asphalt ¬All repairs ¬Shakes We offer 10 Year Workmanship Warranty and Liability/Torch On Insurance Excellent Local References For a FREE estimate please call… 306-948-5453
NCM Home Maintenance
- Interior and Exterior Painting
- Handyman Services - Colour Coordination Service - Light Engineering and Fabrication FREE quotes Prompt Honest Service
Call Nick Maguire 948-3325 948-4558
HANDY JIM SERVICES
available to do…
• painting & finishing • decks & small buildings • light plumbing • windows & doors • laminate & hardwood floors • general repairs
Call Jim @ 306-948-3333
Wood and Steel Buildings Floor & Trusses GEORGE STAHL Ph: cell:
(306) 948-3776 (306) 260-6503
Michelle Spuzak, R.M.T. (NHPC member) Located @ New Beginnings Wellness Centre, 114 - 2nd Ave. W., BIGGAR • Shamanic Healing • Psychosomatic Therapy • Massage • Emotional Release Therapy
~ Gift Certificates ~ Evening, Saturday and in-home appointments available.
948-2548 or 948-9710
Ladies Only
30 min. Circuit Gym
…owned and operated by Brett Barber
Located in the Nova Wood Centre (back entrance) 104 - 6th Ave. E., Biggar
948-2208 New Beginnings Wellness Centre “Putting PERSONAL back into fitness training!” Wayne Baldwin, PFT, CPTA, CNHC
Specializing in Exclusive Seasonal Personal Training Sessions! …for weight loss, body sculpting, strength training.
* Limited Memberships available to fully equipped Private Fitness Studio & Cardio Room Gift Certificates available
New Stucco & Restoration…
Where you can feel right at home!
acrylic Ànish, full system foam, paper/ wire, pargings/ICF blocks, custom pillars & battons, repair/service
Phone… 948-2548
306-716-4021
Your Healthy Living
>LSSZ /VTLZ *VUZ[Y\J[PVU
• framing • additions • windows & door sales • siding • rooÄng • drywall & Änishing
In Biggar Every Tuesday. Biggar Professional Building, 223 Main Street, Biggar
For appointments… 1-855-651-3311
BIGGAR DENTAL CLINIC
- together with -
Visit us @ 114- 2nd Ave. W., Biggar
modernlookhomerenos@gmail.com www.facebook.com/modern.look.35
Kirk Ewen Doctor of Optometry
DENTAL
interior & exterior painting, textured ceilings, drywall, mud & tape
104 - 6th Ave. East, Biggar, Sask. Southeast entrance of Nova Wood Bldg. Hours… Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m. - 11 a.m.
306-948-3408 DR. GLENN RIEKMAN Dentist 115 - 1st Ave. W. Rosetown, Sask.
OFFICE HOURS Monday to Thursday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 882-2123 Emergency (after hours) 882-2006
SEED CLEANING
Cell… 948-8048
Weight Loss & Wellness Centre
Consultant & Coach Anne G. Livingston •Ideal Protein Weight Loss Clinic •Epicure Selections •Walden Farms Products •Young Living Essential Oils •Beauticontrol Skin Care www.beautipage.ca/annelivingston
Located in Angie’s Hair Salon 219 Main St., Biggar Call 948-7274 or 948-3696
Wylie Farms Ltd. SEED CLEANING Canadian Seed Institute Accredited Pedigree, Commercial & Custom Cleaning FULL line of Cleaning Equipment including Gravity Table
Excellent Quality at a Reasonable Price! For all your Cereal and Pulse Cleaning Call: Bill: Dale:
948-2807 or 948-5609 948-5394
Plant located 8 miles south of Biggar on Hwy #4, ¼ mile west on Triumph Rd.
Mundt’s Mobile Custom Grain Cleaning
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
will clean wheat, barley, durum, CPS wheat, oats, peas and lentils.
Bear Hills Rural Development Corporation Box 327 Biggar, SK S0K 0M0
WINE, BEER, KITS and SUPPLIES
Grape Moments available at…
Helping you Help yourself
To fax…stop in at The Independent
OPTOMETRISTS
Services available…
Offering… One-on-One Rehab & Therapy Sessions
Renos…
Wally Lorenz 1391 - 100th St. North Battleford, SK S9A 0V9 Day or Night
CONTRACTING LTD.
www.madgeroofing.com Biggar, Sask.
113 - 3 Ave. W., Biggar
HEALTH/WELLNESS
MADGE
306-717-2818
rd
948-5052 (office)
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Kent Dubreuil, E.D.O. Phone: 306-948-2295 Fax: 306-948-5050
located in The Independent, 102 - 3rd Ave. West, Biggar
948-3344
Reasonable rates For bookings, call Jason
948-2887 or cell 948-6969 McNULTY’S MOBILE SEED CLEANING Custom Cleaning of H.R.S. & C.P. S. Wheat
Phone: 948-5678
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
LEGAL SERVICES
ACCOUNTING
BUSSE LAW
BIGGAR ACCOUNTING SERVICES
PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION Barristers & Solicitors
Garry A. Faye
Stuart A. Busse, QC Larry A. Kirk, LL.B. Bonnie L. Reddekopp, JD
Chartered Accountant Notary Public
302 Main Street, Biggar, SK
948-3346
P. O. Box 1480 Biggar, Sask.
…serving your community since 1972
Phone: 948-5133
Roe
201B-2nd Ave. West
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 21
AUTOMOTIVE
COURIER/HAULING
BIGGAR COURIER Service Truck Full Mechanical Service Mon - Fri • 8 a.m.-5 p.m. phone: George
948-3376 after hours George: 948-4042 Corner of Main Street & 1st Avenue West, Biggar
SERVICES
SERVICES
Rebel Landscaping 948-2879, evenings 948-7207, daytime Ed Kolenosky
• Biggar to Saskatoon • Same day Service • Monday to Friday • 24-hour Answering Service
~Brian and Cathy Fick~
Cell: 306-948-7524
HARRIS TRUCK SERVICES LTD.
1st Ave. West, Biggar
• Driveways • Concrete • Garage Pads • Pruning • Planting
• Topsoil • Lawn Care • Leveling • Sod • Patio Blocks
• Snow Removal • Fences …and much more
Your authorized
Com
Panasonic, Samsung,
is a full service law office that practices… ¾Family and Criminal law ¾Commercial law ¾Real Estate ¾Wills and Estate, and our lawyers, illi m Roe C so es ko Mok r k is so Sheri oo s look forward to assisting you and can be contacted at:
Custom Grain Hauling 223 Main Street Biggar Box 580 Biggar, SK SOK OMO
OPEN: Mon.-Fri. • 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday • 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
948-2700
Tridem & Super B trailers
Your Auto Parts and Accessories Dealer
…for bookings contact
Open: Mon.-Fri.
Rockin D Trucking & Cattle
8 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat. • 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Let Vortex protect your truck and your investment with the Vortex Seamless Sprayed on Liner System
948-2183 Email: ddolack@sasktel.net Website: www.hrblock.ca
or
INVESTMENTS For all your investment needs, Visit…
Prairieland Collision Rosetown, Sask.
306-882-2289
M & N REPAIR 701 - 4th Ave. E., Biggar
948-3996 Dean McCallum, CFP, CIM, FCSI
Lyndsey Sacher
Open Monday-Saturday
Investment Advisor Credential Securities Inc.
Mutual Fund Investment Specialist, Wealth Consultant Credential Asset Management Inc.
Mike Nahorney, Interprovincial Heavy Duty Journeyman Mechanic
Pamela Eaton
Robert Hoesgen, CFP
Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc.
Mutual Fund Investment Specialist Credential Asset Management Inc.
Located at the Biggar & District Credit Union 302 Main Street, Biggar, SK • 306-948-3352 Mutual funds are offered through Credential Asset Management Inc., and mutual funds and other securities are offered through Credential Securities Inc. ®Credential is a registered mark owned by Credential Financial Inc. and is used under license.
Heavy Truck Repair SGI Safety Inspection Auto Repair TIRES
KRF Auto Centre
Want a truly independent advisor who will find your unique solution? Are you looking for Life, Living Benefits Insurance and/or Investment Strategies? Do you just want to know if your premiums are fair with the right coverage?
Financial Planning Estate Planning Life Insurance 222 Main Street 306 948 5377
info@twhfinancial.ca www.twhfinancial.ca
Kevin Kurulak Investment Rep Insurance Broker P. 306 948 5200 F. 306 948 5207 Appointments Preferred
PHOTOGRAPHY
Photos by Jocelyn Portraits, Family, Weddings & Sports Photography Biggar, Sask.
www.photosbyjocelyn.com
INSURANCE BIGGA R I NS URA NCE S E RV I CE S • Notary Publics • Home & Agro Insurance • Auto & Commerical Insurance • Health Insurance • Motor Licence Issuer Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday 304 Main Street • Biggar
Phone: 948-2204 or 948-3886
306-948-2814
Small Ads Work… You’re reading this one!!!
Biggar, Sask.
HAULS TO THE DUMP Small moves and deliveries with ½ ton truck
Ph/fax: 948-3856 or cell: 948-7896 J. G. Smith
306.237.7671
Owned & operated by Kevin Fick
YH Truck, Ag & Auto • Heavy truck parts • Agriculture parts • Automotive parts & accessories www.yhtruckagauto.com
Hwy 14 East, Biggar 948-2109
SERVICES NORTHLAND PAINTING and SANDBLASTING •Texas Gates •Spray Foam Insulation •Sandblasting & Painting •Internal Coatings •Rock Guard Coatings g
Mobile Units Office: 948-2805 05 Cell: 948-6062
For all your glass needs,
Biggar
216 Main St., Biggar
948-3955 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 948-2091
Mon. - Fri., 8 a.m. - 6 pm. 2 mi N on Hwy #4, 2-½ mi E on Golf Course Rd. Anne G. Livingston
• photographs • paintings • art prints • memorabilia • collages, etc. Call Anne @ 948-7274 greengables2@sasktel.net
306-948-4846
MONARCH MEATS
Modern Licenced Abbatoir • custom slaughter, cut and wrapping • sausage making, curing and smoking
• sides of Beef available
948-3384 HONEYBEE SEPTIC TANK SERVICE Bob Kobelsky
658-4474, Landis, SK
109 Main St., Biggar Sewing & Embroidery • Jackets • Windsuits • Shirts • Hunting Gear • Bunnyhugs • Caps • Toques • Bags Check out our new website: classicmakings.ca Judy Judy Kahovec: Kahovec… 882-4313, Cellcell 831-7935 306-882-4313, 831-7935 Carey Krchov: 882-3213 Carey Krchov…882-3213
Ivan Young, Biggar Tree services available… • cut trim and removal • post holes • landscaping • cement removal • trenching • holes for piles • driveways • garage pads • basements
948-3381
email: northland83@yourlink.ca
A Sign of Qualilty! • Wood, metal, plastic signs • Vehicle & window graphics • Banners, stickers and Magnetic signs
Jerry Muc Phone: 948-2958 Fax:
9We tint vehicles too!
Phillips Radio Shop
Super B outfits hauling grain and fertilizer in Alberta and Saskatchewan
948-1722
BIGGAR LEISURE CENTRE
Battery Chargers Electric Fencers Repaired/Rebuilt/ Built
• Detailing • Vortex Spray-In Box Liners • Granitex Baked-on Coatings for Decks and Cement Flooring • Auto Accessories • Trailer Rentals
227 - 1 Ave. East, Biggar
SaskTel Mobility and High Speed Internet Dealer
Take’n the pain outta haul’n your grain!
“Where we do it all for you!!”
st
9Residential 9Commercial 9Automotive
and Your authorized
Certified Custom Picture Framer
Troy May, owner/operator Fax #306.237.TROY
100% handwash
403 Main Street, Biggar
• Cattle hauling with 21 ft. gooseneck trailer • round and large square bale hauling with step-deck or highboy semi-trailers • also buying and selling straw and forage • also machinery hauling Home • 306-948-2037 Alex • 306-948-7291 Dan • 306-948-7843
LG, Frigidaire, Shaw, Yamaha Audio Dealer;
THUR-O CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Cliff Forsyth Box 736, Biggar
Phone:
948-5600
Phone:
948-2442
Fax: 948-2484
Biggar Sand & Gravel • trenching • trucking • water & sewer • sand & gravel • excavating Call Colin Graham at 948-5455 CWB Certified Light Fabrication Mobile Welding
230 - 1st Ave. W., Biggar Phone: 948-7117 email: chase14welding@sasktel.net
“Your complete decal and signage shop”
948-5699
t Delivery Ask Abou
306-948-3312 sales@gvsigns.ca
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
22 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Perdue news Audrey Mason news I’m really behind! Two weeks ago, my daughter, Melody Lozinsky from Regina visited Gregg and I for two days. She came up from Regina to a meeting in Saskatoon, and came out to Perdue afterwards. Such a good supper she prepared on arrival. The following day, she buzzed like a busy little bee, cleaning our cupboards and putting up Christmas decoration. She wanted to get me in the mood, I guess. Friday was departure time so we left almost together. She, Ken and
Maureen are coming up December 20 for an early Christmas. The grandkids are arriving after the 25th. Maureen goes into work on December 25. That day Wendy and Chad Mason have kindly invited us there, as they did last year. Everyone is very kind! I’m very lucky to have such a wonderful family and Mason-in-laws! It’s like a winter wonderland today after last night’s snowstorm. Very pretty out there, as all is covered in white. Hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas!
Perdue Bowling results Club 55: MHS, Al Levitt, 222; LHS, Dot Curtiss, 201; MHT, Al Levitt, 586; LHT, Dot Curtiss, 483; THS, Hopefuls, 1,126; THT, Hopefuls, 3,107; MHA, Al Levitt, 188; LHA, Kay Munro, 164. Ladies: LHS, Joey Levitt, 222; LHT, Joey Levitt, 556; THS, High Rollers, 1,151; THT, High Rollers, 3,296; LHA, Dorrie Laberswieler, 190. Mens: MHS, George Bartley, 231; MHT, Al Levitt, 645; THS, WWF, 789;
THT, WWF, 2,225; MHA, Curtis Watson, 190. Mixed: MHS, George Bartley, 301; LHS, Joey Levitt, 197; MHT, George Bartley, 652; LHT, Joey Levitt, 531; THS; Smilin’ 5, 1,126; THT; Smilin’ 5, 3,089; MHA; George Bartley, 192; LHA; Joey Levitt, 172. Bowlasaurus: Haydyn Wegwitz, 47; Junior Bantam, Trystyn Wegwitz, 83; Bantam, Adam Munro, 105; Junior, Dakota Anderson, 119.
CWB ships historic first load of canola for overseas customers CWB recently dispatched its historic first shipload of canola from the Port of Prince Rupert, they announced, December 4. The cargo of 42,000 tonnes of Prairie canola is now travelling aboard the vessel Tai Health, en route to customers in Japan. Changes to the Western Canadian grain-marketing system, implemented by the federal government this year, include provisions for CWB to market canola for the first time in history - expanding its crop mix beyond wheat, durum and malting barley. “We are very pleased to have successfully executed our first export sale of canola,” said CWB president and CEO Ian White, who travelled to Japan this month to meet with canola buyer Zen-Noh, the Japanese agricultural co-operative that has made CWB its preferred supplier of Canadian grain. “We are encouraged by the positive response of valued customers like ZenNoh,” he added. “CWB has many marketing advantages, including its long experience with international customers and grain
CAM-DON MOTORS LTD. Perdue, Sask. 2006 Ford Freestar SEL, 7 passenger, DVD entertainment centre, 108,000km, SK Tax Pd, VERY GOOD! Awesome for sport special
$9,900 2008 Honda Civic LX coupe, ATC/WPL only 95,000km, new tires............... $13,900 2007 F-150 4x4 supercab, 5.4 auto, long box, 250,000km, SK Tax Pd .......... $ 9,900 2007 F-150 Lariat Supercrew only 74,000km, local trade, SK Tax pd . $25,900 2006 Freightliner M2 465hp autoshift c/w new CIM BHT ............................... $69,900 2006 Freestar, 3rd row seating, 110,000km ....................................................... $ 7,900 2005 GMC 3/4 ton Sierra SLE Durmax, auto, ext. cab, 190,000km, SK Tax Pd......... ....................................................... $16,900 2005 F-150 XLT, 4x4, supercrew, 110,000km, SK Tax Pd .................. $15,900 2004 F-150 XLT, supercab, 2WD, SWB, only 145,000km, very good, SK Tax Pd ...... ....................................................... $ 8,900
2001 Acura MDX, local, loaded, premium, 150,000km, SK Tax Pd
$10,900 2004 F-350 crew cab, 4x4, service body V-10, auto, very good ................... $ 9,900 2002 F-350 Crew Cab, 7.3 auto, 4x4, dually, 170,000km with deck............... Coming In! 1998 Olds Alero, good winter car...$1,495 1995 Pontiac SunÀre 5 spd, SK Tax Pd ...... ....................................................... $1,795 1995 FL80 Freightliner T/A, 250hp Cummins with 24’ deck ................. $23,900 1994 Ford Ranger, V6, auto, 4x4 ....................................................... $ 4,900 1991 F-800 diesel, 9 spd., deck, very good ....................................................... $ 9,900
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logistics. Farmers who sign CWB contracts benefit from CWB’s long standing marketing relationships and access to premier markets.” White said strong performance from CN Rail and Prince Rupert Grain Terminal helped deliver this canola to port on schedule. Because the sale was executed through Prince Rupert, all canola was sourced through elevators located on CN lines. White said the canola in this first vessel is a mix of cash purchases from companies and farmers, as well as canola committed by farmers to the CWB pool. White said pooling provides farmers the certainty of a good average return that will capture market
rallies during the year. For White said CWB is comthe first time in history, mitted to canola marketing Canadian farmers have the for the long term and to opportunity to pool canola as demonstrating its value to part of their overall market- both Prairie farmers and ing and risk-management canola buyers, many of strategy, he added. CWB’s whom are long-term CWB canola Harvest Pool runs customers for other grains. from harvest to June 30, 2013. “Our approach in this first year as a player in the canola market has been cautious Tai Health takes on a historic shipload to ensure our from the Port of Prince Rupert. (Submitapproach to ted Photo) sourcing, shipping and risk management CWB continues to evaluate is well-structured to work possibilities for expandwith a new product,” White ing its marketing to other said. “The results have been crops. very encouraging.”
The Sky This Month - December 2012 by Gary Boyle, The Royal Astronomical Society of Canada Long Cold Nights (Part 2) Of all the galaxies found within the confines of Cetus, we save the brightest for last. M77 is a some what faceon spiral galaxy the Charles Messier described it in his famous catalogue as a cluster of stars with nebulosity. M77 is an active Seyfert Galaxy estimated at 60 million light years away and is considered on of the largest galaxies out there. Its size is thought to be a staggering 170,000 light years across and having a population of a trillion stars or five times that of the Milky Way. The annual Messier Marathon held within the third week of March of any year is that special time when the Sun and its glare do not
hide any of the 110 Messier objects. A particular order of locating the objects visually starting in the west after twilight and ending in the east before twilight is a must. Sometimes you are battling a lightening sky while trying to visually hunt for the few last targets. M77 is second on the search list and could be a challenge while fighting the dwindling twilight before losing it below the western horizon. This should be an excellent year for the Geminid meteor shower. Plan your calendar for the night of December 13 as the moon will be absent from the sky. If you can last all night, you will be rewarded with see very slow and graceful meteors burning up at 36 kilometres per second. The annual rate of this shower is 120 meteors per hours. So dress warm and enjoy
the best celestial shows of the year. Now that Jupiter has attained opposition on the 3rd, the king of the planets rises in the east as the sun sets in the west. With our two worlds at its closest, nights of low turbulence with reward you with some fantastic sights and chances to image this gas giant. As always, consult the RASC 2013 Observer’s Handbook page 243 for times of transits and shadows of its four main Galilean moons. With the New Moon occurring on the 13th at 3:42 EST coupled with the Moon’s closest distance (perigee) from us at 357,075 km some four hours earlier will yield the highest tides. The full Cold Moon or the Long Night Moon occurs on the 28th at 5:21 EST. And lastly – it is that time of year we look to purchasing a telescope for that budding beginner. Make sure you stay away from making a purchase from those big box stores. They usually stock the very inexpensive and cheaply made telescopes. Be sure to search the Internet for a true telescope store close to you. These stores or on-line ordering are tailored for astronomy and you can trust their advice. Well that is it for another year. As we look forward to 2013 for many great observing sessions and special events especially Comet Panstarrs and 2012/S1 in December. I would like to wish you and you’re a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Until next time, clear skies everyone.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 23
planting, pruning & puttering by Delta Fay Cruickshank of The Independent At this time of year, we are reminded that nature creates ‘signs’. Signs of the birth of a child that will change history, or signs that the weather will change. Signs that the winter will be long, short, summers dry, wet . . . signs that predict tomorrows. So many of the signs are hundreds of years old. Likely created from those who spent most of their days outside, and just observing. Shepherds, sailors, farmers, trappers and ‘old wives’ passed their observations to others and have come to us. The most popular sign is “Red Sky at night, Sailors delight!” Now, for years, I always thought that this sign predicted a fine next day, but it wasn’t until I came to this country that my
This cloud formation, and similiar ones, have been referred to a “mare’s tails, mackerels tails”, will predict a windy day. (Photos from google/images.com) neighbour gave me the actual meaning of this saying. It makes so much more sense to me; it will be windy! Of course, sailors delight! We had a beautiful red sky last night, and sure enough, I felt the sting of that cold wind on my face this morning! The other one is, “Red sky in the morning, sailors take warning” . . . no wind! My neighbour, a farmer’s daughter, and then a farmer’s wife, and now an avid gardener, sees nature’s signs and shares them with me. I am beginning to believe that her predictions are better than any on the
computer or television! When the white plume of steam behind a jet widens in the sky, the weather is changing. Lately it means it will get warmer and will likely snow. The smoke in the chimney goes straight up, getting colder. When the smoke comes down, its getting warmer. Wind from the east, moisture is coming. Birds loud and busy, storm coming; sun shining whilst it is raining, rain tomorrow and of course, wind from the north, frigid! My father, a farmer’s son, gardener, hunter and nature lover shared many signs with me too. If the cows in the pasture
huddle under a tree during a rain shower, the shower will end soon. If they continue to graze in the pasture when it is raining, the wet weather will continue. If the white undersides of the willow tree leaves are showing, it will soon rain. Look for the muskrat lodges in the sloughs or ponds, if they are really large, it will be a long, hard winter. Smaller lodges, a short, easy winter. Then there is the groundhog predicting the coming of spring. We all know that spring will come. But seeing the groundhog’s shadow
means that winter will still continue being cold and snowy for six more weeks! Observing the cloud formations are some of the tools that meteorologists use for their predictions, using science to back up them up. Farmers and agricultural workers used their observations and memories to make their predictions . . . “mares tails and mackerel tails”, an apt description of a cloud formation predicts windy weather. “I can feel it my bones”, and rain is predicted! “I can smell rain” is another natural prediction. Then, there is, hoar frost in winter, six months
later there will be rain. Watching the flocks of geese certainly predicts winter’s coming and winter’s leaving! One nature phenomenon that I had never seen until I moved here to Saskatchewan is the ‘Sundog” It looked like there were three suns in the sky! Beautiful, awesome, and predicting very, very cold weather! These signs, although not ‘scientific’, are the result of “knowledge attained through study or practice”, Webster’s New Collegiate Dictionary’s definition of ‘science”. What signs do you observe when predicting weather?
12123SS00
The Independent will be
CLOSED December 21, 2012 to January 3, 2013 (no paper December 27) Deadline for January 3, 2013 issue: Wednesday, December 19, 2012 Open January 3, 2013 regular hours Monday-Friday 9 a.m. - 12 noon; 1-5 p.m. 306-948-3344
This season, we’re helping hardworking growers like you with up to 20 cents per bushel back! Simply purchase your canola seed and herbicide, and sign a canola contract to collect your reward. As an added bonus, if you book your seed before December 31, 2012, you’ll be eligible to win a trip for two to the World Ag Expo in Tulare, California. For more details call Jim Vancha in Hanover Junction at 306-948-1990. Our office is located on 220 Main Street, Biggar, SK ® ™ All trademarks are property of their respective companies.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
24- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Saskatchewan land sales top $100 million for 2012 in exploration over the five-year term of the permits. The province is cautiously optimistic that the results of this exploratory work will provide further insight into the potential of the resource in the province.” December’s sale included 89 lease parcels that brought in $8.9 million in bonus bids, two petroleum and natural gas exploration licences that sold for $1.6 million, and two oil sands special exploratory permits that received $1 million. The Weyburn-Estevan area received the most bids with sales of $6.1 million.The Lloydminster area was next at $2.6 million, followed by the Swift Current area at $1.8 million and the Kindersley-Kerrobert area at $982,890. The highest price for a single parcel was $1.6 million. Scott Land and Lease Ltd. acquired this 1,327-hectare exploration licence south of Gull
Christmas Season Services ST. GABRIEL’S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Biggar ~
Lake. The highest price on a per-hectare basis was
OUR LADY OF FATIMA ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, Landis ~
BIGGAR UNITED CHURCH ~
PERDUE UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 16… 11 a.m., White Gift Sunday, gifts for Quint Lodge (young men ages 15-20) SUN., DEC. 23… 11 a.m., Service of Carols MON., DEC. 24… 5:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Service No services December 30 & Jan. 6 SUNDAY, January 13: 11 a.m. regular services
ASQUITH UNITED CHURCH ~ SUN. DEC. 16… White Gift Sunday SUN., DEC. 23… 9:30 a.m., Service of Carols MON., DEC. 24…7 p.m., Christmas Eve Service
SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST ~ SAT. DEC. 22…Christmas Program, 11 a.m. Worship Service… SATURDAYS, 11 a.m. Bible Study… SUNDAYS, 10 a.m.
O COME LET US ADORE HIM!
SUN., DEC. 23… 10:50 a.m. SUN. DEC. 30…10:50 a.m., Worship Service with Communion PALS COMMUNITY CHURCH ~ SUN., DEC. 16… 7:00 p.m., Service of Carols & Lessons, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, followed by a visit from Santa, refreshments and goodies for the kids (NOTE: no morning service) MON. DEC. 24… 7:00 p.m., Christmas Eve Service, Redeemer Lutheran Church; 9:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Service, St. Paul’s Anglican Church TUES., DEC. 25… 10:30 a.m., Redeemer Lutheran Church
gas dispositions will be held on February 4, 2013.
The Biggar and District Ministerial Association wishes you all the joy and blessings of the Christmas Season.
SUN., DEC. 23… 9 a.m., Mass MON., DEC. 24… 9:30 p.m., Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 30… 9 a.m. Mass TUES., JAN. 1… 9 a.m. New Year’s Day Mass
BIGGAR ASSOCIATED GOSPEL CHURCH ~
east of Lloydminster. The next sale of Crown petroleum and natural
Gal Pals . . . Stopping for a quick picture, Jenna at the Jubilee. The five were enjoying the game and Boisvert, Ceejay Lehnert, Edyn Keith, Jaeda Hoppe each other’s company. (Independent Photo by Kevin and Tiara Keith, “bullied” the photographer into Brautigam) taking their picture during Friday’s Pirate game
SUN., DEC. 23… 11 a.m., Mass MON., DEC. 24… 7:00 p.m. - Christmas Eve Mass DEC. 25… NO Mass SUN., DEC. 30… 11 a.m., Mass TUES., JAN. 1… 11 a.m., New Year’s Day Mass SUN., DEC. 16…11 a.m., White Gift Sunday, (unwrapped gift for Secret Santa) SUN., DEC. 23… 11 a.m., choir music MON., DEC. 24…7:00 p.m., Candlelight Christmas Eve Service No worship service December 25 and December 30; SUN., JAN. 6, 11 a.m., regular worship service
$8,412. Stomp Energy Ltd. bid $136,188 for a 16-hectare lease parcel
The December sale of Crown petroleum and natural gas and oil sands rights generated $11.5 million in revenue for the province, bringing final land sale revenues for the 2012 calendar year to $105.7 million. Industry bid an average of $598 per hectare for oil and gas rights, which is more than double the $218 per hectare received by Alberta in their last sale of oil and gas rights. This sale also featured five oil sands special exploratory permits north of the Primrose Lake Air Weapons Range, two of which received acceptable bids. “It is encouraging that more than $1 million in bonus bids was received for two of the oil sands permits that were offered in this sale,” Energy and Resources Minister Tim McMillan said. “In addition to a bonus bid, these permits require a minimum work commitment expenditure to be spent
Enter to
W IN! IN! Fabulous Gift Certifi Certificates cates see pages 11-15 for details
All ABOARD—
For A Great Season!
Right on schedule we’d like to say, That we’re sending manywarm wishes your way– As the year winds down and we look back, We know it’s people like you who keep us on track!
from all of us at the Biggar Independent
2 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Christmas traditions continue through the ages Many Christmas traditions are older than some celebrants might think. The tradition of lighting up a Christmas tree, for example, dates back to the days before Christmas lights.
Before electric-powered twinkle lights were invented and even before electricity was discovered, people used actual candles to adorn the Christmas tree. As one can imagine, having
an open flame next to a dried-out tree was risky, so it was customary to keep a bucket of water next to the tree in the case of fire. As if fire wasn’t enough, the tinsel used to decorate trees
was made from strips of silver and even lead -- something that is now known to be a health hazard to adults and children alike. Although we’ve come a long way since candles and lead, even now trees that are overly dry and decorated
with lights that have frayed wires can just as easily lead to fires. Plus, plastic tinsel can be a choking hazard for children and pets. One Christmas staple that has lost its status as a safety hazard isthe poinsettia plant. It has
long been thought that poinsettias are poisonous to people and animals. While there is some toxicity to the plant, it would require the ingestion of hundreds of leaves to get a toxic dose of a plant’s poison.
Out-of-the-box themes for your holiday party Joyous Greetings
Christmas 2012:
Hope It Delivers! To all our good friends, let us extend our sincere thanks and warm wishes for a very, merry holiday season.
Rosetown - Biggar - Elrose Outlook - Davidson - Central Butte
Wishing you all the trimmings of a very merry season We appreciate your loyal support.
Serving the community for over 10 years 212 Main St, Biggar Pizza Ray (aka Mayor Ray) and staff
Parties are an integral part of the holiday season, when friends and family gather to celebrate and give thanks. For holiday hosts, parties are a great opportunity to make the season even more festive with an event that guests won’t soon
Merry Christmas
from all of us
948-4800
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
forget. The following are just a few themes to make your holiday party as memorable as it is merry. • Christmas sweater party: Christmas sweater parties have grown in popularity over the last decade, when revelers have tried to outdo one another with the most outrageous holiday-themed sweater. Give prizes for the most outlandish sweater and let guests know early on so they can begin their hunt for a holiday
May the coming year bring peace, joy and enlightenment to you and those you cherish.
Village of Landis Council and staff
From Our Hearth To Yours Biggar Insurance Services Anita, Lisa H., Chandra, Cheryl, Lisa A, Janice
Landis Agencies Michelle
When it comes to Christmas, we’ve got you covered -- with our warm wishes and heartfelt thanks.
May you and your family enjoy a Christmas stuffed with lots of magic, merriment and delight. We know we’re Àlled with appreciation when we think of the many good folk we’ve had the pleasure to serve this year.
Happy Holidays!
Biggar Shop Easy F•O•O•D•S Committed to our Community Greg, Naomi and staff
948-5144
sweater that’s so ugly or outrageous you can’t help but love it. • Christmas costume party: Costume parties aren’t just for Halloween. This holiday season, consider making your holiday bash a costume party, encouraging guests to dress up as their favorite characters from holiday tales like “Frosty the Snowman,” “A Christmas Carol” or any of the host of beloved holiday legends. • C a r i b b e a n Christmas:The weather come the holiday season may be the one thing to put a damper on the festivities. To combat blue feelings from potentially inclement weather, consider a Caribbean theme for your holiday party this season. Rather than wearing sweaters and long pants, wear beach attire and give the party a touch of the Caribbean. Outfit your home in beach decor and serve food and drinks reminiscent of the Caribbean instead of more traditional holiday fare like eggnog and gingerbread cookies. • Film festival: Holiday movies are another tradition of the season, so why not invite friends and family over for a holiday film marathon? Include classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “A Christmas Story” and encourage guests to submit their own favorites for consideration. • Christmas karaoke: For those who love to belt out their favorite holiday tunes, consider throwing a Christmas karaoke party that allows guests to perform their own renditions of their favorite Christmas carols. Purchase a home karaoke set and ask guests in advance of the party if there are any particular songs they’d like to perform.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 3
Merry Christmas
Celebrating the season of Epiphany were Gaspar, Melchior and B a l t h a s a r, but this is something learned postBible as well. G o l d represented a gift worthy of a king. Frankincense was an expensive gift valued for its wonderful fragrance The Epiphany marks the day that Jesus Christ was revealed and medicinal as the Son of God. In Western faiths, Epiphany takes place on values and January 6th. worship. It is thought Celebrants of the historians interpret that spoke Christian faith and there were only three due Frankincense Eastern orthodox to the number of gifts to the worship of God. Christian religion may that were presented. Myrrh was used as an want to wait a few The names of the magi anesthetic and in burial days after Christmas to start packing away their decorations and Everyone is familiar lo, the star, which they cease celebrating the holiday season. That’s with the story of the saw in the east, went because it is customary Magi who brought gifts before them, till it came to commemorate the to the Infant Jesus, but and stood over where the Epiphany, which marks we actually know very young child was. When they saw the star, they the day that Jesus Christ little about them. Although they were rejoiced with exceeding was revealed as the Son not given names in the great joy. of God. narrative of And when they were Epiphany is known by Gospel a few different names. St. Matthew, today we come into the house, In addition to Epiphany, know them a Melchior they saw the young child the holiday is sometimes Balthazar, the older with Mary his mother, called Little Christmas kings, and Gaspar, the and fell down, and worshipped him; and and the Feast of the young king. According to St. when they had opened Three Kings. Spanishspeaking individuals Matthew, they were “wise their treasures, they refer to it as El Dia de men” who sought Jesus presented unto him gifts; gold and frankincense, Los Tres Reyes, which by following a star. “Now when Jesus and myrrh.” essentially translates to was born in Bethlehem Day of the Three Kings. In Western faiths, of Judea in the days Epiphany takes place on of Herod the king, January 6th. However, behold, there came wise in Catholic dioceses in men from the east to the U.S., it is observed Jerusalem. Saying, Where is He on the Sunday between January 2 and January that is born King of the 8. Eastern Christians Jews? For we have seen follow the Julian His star in the east, and calendar rather than are come to worship the Gregorian calendar. Him. “ ... they departed; and Therefore, Epiphany occurs a few days later for them, on January 19. According to Christian tradition, Epiphany marks the day the traveling magi arrived from afar to bid welcome to the Baby Jesus. They presented three different gifts:gold, frankincense and myrrh. “And they came into We value your business the house and saw the and look forward to Child with Mary His serving you in the mother; and they fell new year. down and worshiped Him; and opening their The board, staff and treasures they presented to Him gifts of gold management of and frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11 Although the Bible doesn’t specifically 658-2152 mention that there were three wise men, biblical
embalming. It is also used to anoint one in faith. The meaning of the word “epiphany” is a revealing or an opening of one’s eyes. Although Epiphany is much known for the three wise men, the significance of the day is that God revealed Himself to everyone through the human person who was His Son,
Jesus. God reveals that the true God is Jesus, the Messiah, and Savior of the world, who was sent to the people for this express purpose. The day of the Epiphany actually marks the first day of the Epiphany season, which lasts until the Lenten season on Ash Wednesday. Through the Epiphany season, God reveals many intricacies
of His Word through scripture in the Bible. Although many Christians celebrate the better-known holiday of Christmas, Epiphany may have even more spiritual meaning during this holiday season.
Follow the star
We’d like to chime in with our best wishes and thanks.
Merry Christmas!
Merry Christmas!
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With thanks and warm wishes from all of us to all of you.
Jean, Emil, Heather, Collette and Dave
Phillips Electric Biggar • 948-5393 or 221-6888 Dave and staff
948-5626
To All Our Membe rs W
e ’ve ha But we d a great yea r k That w now that it’s true, e could n’ Withou t all of t have done it you!
Warm Wishes
for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
Landis Credit Union
Boar d, M
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Staff
4 - THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Pioneers celebrate Christmas “Christmas was coming. The little log house was almost buried in snow. Great drifts were banked against the wall and windows, and in the morning when opened the door, there was a wall of snow as high as Laura’s head.” Quoted from Laura
Ingalls Wilder’s beloved Little House Books -- true accounts of the pioneer life that the writer experienced from her sixth to 18th years in the 1870s and 1880s; her restless father moved his family from a Wisconsin forest to Indian territory to Minnesota and finally to the Dakota territory. The family endured many hardships -- bitter cold winters as well as
he ringing we hear, could be Santa’s sleigh Bringing our thanks and warm wishes your way long with our hopes for peace on earth And a season that’s Àlled with joy and mirth. o wherever you’re headed and whatever you do May our glad tidings travel with you!
Thanks for your valued patronage!
Excell Tire
It’s time for holiday fun and gathering the family together to share a warm, wonderful yule. We hope the holidays bring everything you want! We wish you and yours the best season ever.
Management & staff
operating under Integra Ti Tire A Auto t C Centre t
948-3376
stifling summer heat. They lived first in a log cabin, then, later in a dugout by the creek, then, later in shacks -- wherever fate (and father) moved them. They went through cyclones, droughts, plaques of cicadas, yet the Ingalls family shared love and faith in each other, and they always celebrated the birthday of the Christ Child.
George, Ann, Ron, Ryan, Don, Geoff and Malcolm
AGI-Envirotank Hwy #4, Biggar • 948-5262
For a Christmas in the big woods, when the house was blanketed with snow, Ma baked bread, beans, cookies -distilled vinegar and baked dried apple pies. Truly a doughty soul. They entertained relatives ... Aunt Eliza and Uncle Peter and the cousins who arrived on Christmas Eve on their big bobsled, sleigh bells ringing. Christmas Eve found them aglow with anticipation, in a circle of love. In the morning the children found gifts in their stockings; a pair of bright red knitted mittens and a stick of red-and-white striped mint candy. Guess who the Christmas fairy was? She must have earned her reward in heaven, but that Christmas Day she received all the reward she wanted, in the surprise and happiness expressed by every child.
1-888-214-3333
948-3376 HOLIDAY HOURS… CLOSED: OPEN: CLOSED: REOPENING:
December 24, December 25, December 26 December 27 and December 28; December 31 open until noon only. January 1 Wednesday, January 2 open for regular business hours.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK - 5
Christmas traditions around the globe Families across the globe cherish their Christmas traditions. Customs may be unique to every family, but many countries boast their own unique traditions as well. * Australia: Many Australians celebrate Christmas by coming together at night to sing carols outside. That’s not as chilly as it might sound, as Christmas in Australia actually falls during summer vacation. In fact, many of the country’s most popular Christmas traditions occur outside. * England: Contrary to Australia, England’s weather around Christmastime is much colder. Many of
inEngland write a letter with their wishes to Father Christmas, but unlike mailing those letters like many North American children do, English children toss their letters into a fire so their Christmas wishes can go up the chimney. * France: Christmas celebrations in France begin several weeks before December 25, but Christmas Eve is most special to many
spicy cookies. Advent wreaths are popular in Germany and are purchased four Sundays before Christmas begins. The wreaths have places for four candles,
weather is warm, many families also cut designs into brown paper bags before inserting a candle and then setting the
A Canadian Santa Claus, with his bag of presents.
Santo Clos from Mexico.
and families light a candle on the wreath each Sunday. * Mexico: Families in Mexico celebrate Christmas by decorating their homes with lilies or evergreens. Because the
In France, there is a Christmas Eve mass. designs, called farolitos, along the sidewalk, on
windowsills, on rooftops, and along outdoor walls. Many communities in the southwestern United States have adopted this tradition, which they often refer to as luminaria. * Sweden: Christmas celebrations in Sweden begin on December 13, the day the country celebrates St. Lucia’s Day. Celebrations for St. Lucia, the patron saint of light, are intricate and involve the whole family. A couple of days before Christmas is when many families select their Christmas tree.
In Germany, families light a candle on the advent wreath each Sunday before Christmas.
Father Christmas from the United Kingdom. England’s traditions resemble those popular in North America, including wrapping gifts, hanging stockings over the fireplace and gathering around the Christmas tree. Kids
natives of France. On Christmas Eve, church bells ring as people sing noels, or carols. The following day, a feast is enjoyed upon returning home from church. * Germany: In Germany, the weather is cold during the Christmas season, and in the weeks leading up to Christmas families bake sweet bread, cakes with candied fruits and
In this season of celebration, we are reminded of both the diversity and bounty that nature provides us, and are grateful for the richness and beauty of this wondrous season. We are also grateful to share it with good people like you, and wish you all the best during this special time of year.
Here’s hoping your holiday season turns out to be a real classic. May it be filled with good old-fashioned days of friendship, love and laughter.
Wylie Farms Ltd. Seed Cleaning
“Experience the Westwinds Difference”
Dale, Bill, staff and families 948-2807
948-3301
We thank you for blessing us with your visits this past year. Seeing customers like you is always a treat.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!!!
Westwinds Motor Hotel Dayna,Trent and staff
How many Christmas cards Happy Holidays WISHING YOU are sent all over the world? from Sending out Christmas A HAPPY, greetings is a tradition Prairie Malt Limited that is still common today. Have you ever HEALTHY & Employees wondered just how many cards are sent across PROPEROUS the country? According to Hallmark Corporate, 1.5 billion Christmas 2013 cards, including boxed and individual cards, are purchased and then sent every year. This makes Christmas the No. 1 holiday for sending g r e e t i n g s, followed by Valentine’s Day (144 million) and Mother’s Day (133 million).
Merry Christmas! With thanks and warm wishes from all of us to all of you.
Phillips Electric Biggar • 948-5393 or 221-6888 Dave and staff
Wylie Farms Ltd. Seed Cleaning 948-2807
6- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Give your Christmas a country feel Christmas decorations can range from grandiose lighting displays to more subtle adornments. Some families may prefer more traditional holiday decor, while others might like the look of modern trimmings. Holiday decorations can also be used to
create an atmosphere reminiscent of a certain type of locale, giving a home a holiday in the city vibe or a more rustic feel. For those who prefer a rustic look reminiscent of a country Christmas, consider the following tips. • Start with the tree.
The Christmas tree is the center of many a home’s holiday decor, and those who want to create a country Christmas can start with their tree. Instead of traditional holiday lights, choose
lights that look like candles while adorning the tree with wooden ornaments and strands of popcorn. • Forgo traditional wrapping paper. Instead of flashy, store-bought
wrapping paper, wrap presents in brown paper and put presents under the tree as early as possible. Instead of storebought gift tags, create your own and attach a candy cane or another
This holiday greeting is trimmed with best wishes and thanks to our clients and friends. …Jeanne Marie de Moissac
208 Main St., Biggar
948-3865
Randy Weekes, M.L.A. Biggar Constituency 948-4880, toll free 1-877-948-4880 Box 1413, 106-3rd Avenue West, Biggar
Sending Our Best at the Holidays Here’s hoping your holiday delivers a bundle of joy and good cheer.
Merry Christmas! Parrish & Heimbecker Limited Hanover Junction Biggar, Sask. www.parrishandheimbecker.com
A Special Christmas Wish
948-1990
candy to the gift. • Think nature with decorations. Items gathered from nature can give a home a rustic appeal during the holidays. Hang a homemade wreath on the front door and include pine cones and clippings from evergreen trees when adding decorative accents around the house. Tuck a few decorative woven baskets in corners to further emphasize a rustic look. • Create homemade ornaments. Homemade ornaments can also give a home a more rustic look come the holiday season. Spend an afternoon creating holiday crafts with the kids and use these instead of storebought ornaments. For those who are especially gifted craftsmen, put your woodworking skills to the test to create decorative wooden stockings that, if not functional, can be replaced with more traditional stockings come Christmas Eve. • Don’t forget the music. Another way to create a country Christmas is to play country Christmas albums instead of classical or more traditional Christmas records. Nearly every country music star of the past and present has recorded a Christmas song or album, so create a master playlist of country Christmas songs on your digital music player and play it throughout the season to set the holiday mood in your household.
Holiday Greetings
With heartfelt thanks from all of us. We really appreciate the gift of your friendship.
There’s no place we’d rather be at Christmas than right here, with all our good friends and neighbours. For your goodwill, we are truly indebted, and we wish you all a beautiful holiday and a happy and prosperous New Year.
Biggar Accounting Services Garry, Sharon, and staff
Management & staff Perdue • 237-4272 Here’s hoping you enjoy generous portions of love and laughter with family and friends for the main course of your Christmas season!
Hannigan·s Hamburgers & Pizza 948-3335 • Main Street, Biggar
Now with eight locations
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -7
Merry Christmas
The evolution and many faces of Christmas Many people prepare for the arrival of Christmas months in advance. The first traces of wrapping paper and decorations arrive in stores as early as September, transforming the holiday into a much more secular celebration than its modest Christian beginnings. Despite Christmas being an important date in the lives of today’s Christians, the holiday failed to gain prominent status until relatively recently. Research indicates that as late as the 19th century, Christmas was not even a legal holiday requiring a day off from work. That’s why 19th century readers of the classic Christmas tale, “A Christmas Carol,” were not shocked at Bob Cratchit having to work on Christmas Day. The United States Congress used to meet on Christmas Day because it was not a national holiday. In 1836, Alabama became the first state to officially recognize Christmas, but it didn’t become a legal holiday across the country until June 26, 1970. Today’s Christmas celebrations include traditions from around the world. Some ascertain that it was the Church’s doing to schedule Christmas at a similar time to the pagan festivals, such as Saturnalia, that took place during the winter months. But
many biblical scholars argue that this was not the case. Some pagan influences, such as holly and mistletoe as well as the burning of a yule log, have long been a part of Christmas traditions. Santa Claus is one of the more recognizable symbols of Christmas. He is based on St. Nikolas of Myrna, an area that is part of modern-day Turkey. St. Nikolas is the world’s most popular non-Biblical saint and is one of the saints most portrayed by artists. Early depictions of St. Nikolas show him as a stern man who delivered his share of discipline. Eventually, those depictions changed to show a figure more associated with generosity. Throughout history there have been characters from around the globe, such as the Viking deity Odin, who were precursors to Santa Claus. Myth states that Odin rode his eight-legged flying horse in the winter. Odin gave out gifts to well-behaved children and punishments to those who misbehaved. Children would fill boots or stockings with treats for the flying horse. Regardless of the origins of Christmas, today it is hard to deny that Christmas is a commercialized success. It is a national holiday not only in the United States and Canada but also in other areas of the world, and it is best known for the tradition of giving presents to others. In fact, many people head to the stores well in advance of the Christmas
holiday to purchase all of the presents on their shopping lists. The shopping season
does not coincide with merchant schedules. While most people are bustling to and from
to spend Advent preparing for the birth of Jesus Christ and the joy that ensues during the weeks leading up to December 25. Similarly, the joyous time of Christ’s birth is a day of celebration that does not end on December 26 but continues for 12 days until the Epiphany, also known as Little
Christmas, when Magi were reported to have visited the infant Christ and give him gifts. Although the more traditional day for giftgiving would seem to be on the Epiphany, by the time that day arrives many people have already taken down their Christmas decorations.
Christmas hangings All I want for Christmas is for my children to hang up three things -- mistletoe, stockings and the phone.
tradition may be traced back to the time of World War II, when it was necessary to mail gifts early to the troops serving in Europe so that they would be able to open them in time. Merchants realized that this concept could be used when gifting troops as well as private citizens, reminding shoppers to make their holiday purchases early so they could mail them to relatives near or far. As a result, the advanced shopping season was born. Although many people feel Christmas begins when the first bag of tinsel appears on a store shelf and ends when the last present is opened on December 25th, the true religious holiday
department stores and malls, Christians are participating in Advent, which was traditionally a solemn season of reflection and fasting. Christians are supposed
Country Christmas Greetings We’re wishing you lots of wholesome country cheer. Hope you enjoy every ounce of your holidays thanks for all the kindness you’ve shown us.
MONARCH MEATS Modern Licenced Abbatoir
948-3384 Located 8 miles north and 3 miles east of Biggar
Brent, Dwayne and families
Sunshine Family Care Home Yule log tradition The tradition of the yule log comes to us from England and France. It was the custom for members of a family to carry in a mass or wood or a large gnarled stump from the woods. This loge would be brought in on Christmas Eve. The Yule Log is representative of warmth and light during this joyous Yuletide season.
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Get your name on Our List, so when YOU are ready, WE are ready!!!
948-3644
JDL Underground Fred, Erin, family and staff 948-2298
WITH THE VERY BEST OF WISHES FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS May your home be blessed with peace, love, joy and contentment throughout the Yuletide season. We feel blessed to have such wonderful friends and neighbors like you. Thanks!
Shannon de Vries, residents and staff
8- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Merry Christmas
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Origins of a holiday staple The thick, spiced drink we know as eggnog has become synonymous with the holidays. It is so linked with the Christmas season that a person may be hardpressed to find it sold in the supermarket any other time of the year. But eggnog wasn’t always the holiday beverage it has become. Eggnog is believed to have originated in 17th century Europe, primarily as a drink for the elite, since the ingredients in the
beverage were hard to come by and thusly relegated to the very rich. There are different theories on the origins of the word eggnog itself. Some believe it has gotten its name from the Old English word “nog,” which meant “strong beer.” The “egg” refers to one of the ingredients in the beverage, fresh eggs. Others surmise that it comes from the word “noggin,” which was a vessel for serving drinks in taverns. The drink was
called “egg in a noggin,” which was shortened to “eggnog.” Still, there are others who say its name is derived from the term “grog,” which was another term for booze. “Egg n’ grog” was eventually abbreviated to “eggnog.” Although there is little certainty to the origins of the name, the recipe for eggnog has essentially remained unchanged throughout the centuries. It consists of beaten eggs, cream or milk and sugar mixed with some sort of alcoholic spirit. The Old English were believed to mix it with wine, though once the drink was brought to the New World, colonists substituted rum for the
wine. Rum was readily available through tradesman running between the Americas and the Caribbean and therefore less expensive than another spirit. As America grew and eggnog was enjoyed in different parts of the country, the rum was replaced with regional spirits, including bourbon or grain alcohol. Other ingredients were also added to give it a customized flavor. However, the use of nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves has become traditional flavors for the holiday brew. Although eggnog is widely enjoyed throughout the holiday season, in the past it was
served at special events and social occasions. As a warmed beverage it can easily chase away winter’s chill. This is how it may have come to be enjoyed primarily during the holidays. Love it or hate it, eggnog is a drink that can evoke strong feelings of the holidays within minutes. There are variations of eggnog sold commercially, but many people swear by homemade versions for their taste and authenticity. Try your own homemade eggnog with this recipe, courtesy of Cooks.com.
Reindeer marvels In real life, even the tiniest Donner and Blitzen have hoofs that function as snowshoes in deep snow by their broad surfaces. Each hoof is surrounded by horny, sharp rims that grip ice, hard snow and rocks. The concave, padded centres provide traction for rocky hills
Friends Make The Season Special Thank you for the opportunity to serve you this year and warm wishes for holidays and a Happy New Year!!
Biggar Veterinary Clinic Dr. M. O. Isinger and family, Paulette Ireland-Hegland
Holiday Eggnog (Spirited) 1 dozen eggs 1 pound powdered sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup vanilla 8 cups evaporated milk 3 cups water 1 quart spiced rum Nutmeg, to garnish Beat eggs until light in color, gradually add sugar, salt and vanilla. Then add milk and water. Stir in rum (brandy, bourbon or rye may also be used). Cover the nog and ripen for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Stir again and serve sprinkled with nutmeg.
and icy terrain. Rudolph in real life can smell his main food supply, lichen, even through several feet of loose snow. His nose is an insulator allowing him to retain heat and moisture and thus avoid exhaustion and dehydration in the cold.
Here’s hoping your holiday is programmed with enough joy and laughter, to last all year round. We value your support and thank you for doing business with us this past year.
Biggar Leisure • Flat Panel TVs • Appliances • Computers and Computer Repairs • SaskTel Cellular and Highspeed • Digital Camera • Wii, Xbox 360, PS3 216 Main St., Biggar • 948-2266 Larry, Sandy, Brock, Nathan and Floyd
Even the tiniest Donner and Blitzen have hoofs that function as snowshoes in deep snow by their broad surfaces.
Best Wishes for 2013 GPC Board of Directors, Staff and Students www.greatplainscollege.ca
Looks like another great season is shaping up around here, and we owe it all to you, our members, neighbors and friends. From all of us to all of you, go our best wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season. We look forward to seeing you again.
Diamond Gym and Thuro-Janitorial Services Laurie, Cliff and staff
948-5600
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -9
Gifts of Good Taste (from Country Woman, Christmas 2006) Everyone on your list will love these lipsmacking goodies. Chocolaty Popcorn 12 cups butter-flavoured microwave popcorn 1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips 2 teaspoons shortening (divided) 1 package (10 to 12 ounces) vanilla or white chips 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans, toasted Place the popcorn in
a greased 15-inch x 10 inch x 1 inch pan; set aside. Place semisweet chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave, uncovered, for 1 minute; stir until smooth. Drizzle over popcorn. Place vanilla chips and remaining shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave, uncovered for 1 minute; stir until smooth. Drizzle over popcorn; toss gently to coat as much popcorn as possible. Sprinkle with
pecans. Chill until firm before breaking into pieces. Yield: 16 cups Peanut Butter Brownie Mix If you pack the dry ingredients in a quart canning jar, you can cover the lid with Christmasy fabric for a quick, festive touch. 1 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 cup sugar 1/3 cup cocoa 1 cup peanut butter chips 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking
Cranberry Tossed Salad (from Taste of Home’s Holiday and Celebrations Cookbook 2004) Cranberries just seem to be part of Christmas. Here is a recipe for a salad using dried cranberries, and a little bit of jellied cranberry sauce. An excellent way to use up the leftover sauce. 10 cups torn mixed salad greens 1 cup chopped broccoli 1 cup chopped cauliflower 1 cup (4 ounces) crumbled blue cheese (or feta) 1 cup dried cranberries Dressing: 1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup vegetable oil 2 tablespoons chopped onion (or grate the onion on a medium cheese grater) 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 1 tablespoon jellied cranberry sauce 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon poppy seeds In a large salad bowl, combine the first five ingredients. In a blender, combine the sugar, oil, onion, vinegar, cranberry sauce, salt and mustard; cover and process until blended. Add poppy seeds’ cover and pulse
for 5-10 seconds. Drizzle over salad; toss to coat. Serve immediately. Yield: 12 servings
powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup chopped walnuts Additional ingredients 2 eggs 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 teaspoon vanilla In a 1 quart glass container, layer the first nine ingredients in order listed, packing well between each layer. Cover tightly. Store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months. To prepare brownies: In a bowl, combine the eggs, butter, vanilla and brownie mix. Spread into a greased 8 inch square baking dish. Bake at 350˚F for 25-30 minutes or until set (do not over bake). Cool on a wire rack. Cut into squares. Yield: 16 brownies.
Give chocolaty popcorn or a brownie mix to those on your gift list.
Spring into the holiday season with health, happiness and plenty of cheer.
Season’s Greetings! May your year be Àtted with good times, good friends and good fortune. We thank you for your generous support and look forward to serving you again.
Crop Production Services
1st Avenue Collision Center Ltd. 948-3356 Jeff, Cindy, and Dan
Management and staff
Hwy #4, Biggar, • 948-1753
The Lord is come: let earth receive her King! Let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing. – Joy to the World God bless you and your family this holiday season. Thanks for your support this past year, and we’re looking forward to serving you in the New Year Jellied cranberry sauce will give this salad a fresh, Christmassy flavour. Something different to add to the festive table for friends and family.
Ice Ring Idea An ice ring can add a festive touch to punch while keeping it cold. Fill a ring mold about half full with water or juice; freeze until slushy.
Place fresh cranberries or other fruit and mint sprigs or lemon leaves around the ring. Add water until the mold is full; freeze until solid.
Biggar Flower & Gift Shop Ed and Evonne • 948-2616
May the peace and happiness of the Christmas season carry you and your family through the new year and beyond. Thank you for your patronage.
Spyder AutoBody 948-2044 Fred, Patsy, Curtis, Roy, Bryor, Teagon, Josh
10- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Merry Christmas
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Sage Butter Turkey with Shallot Sausage Stuffing Whole fresh sage leaves tucked under the skin show through when the skin turns translucent, golden and crisp. Because of its intensity, dried sage is best for the Sage Butter. Servings: 16 1 turkey, (about 16 lb/7.2 kg) 10 fresh sage leaves 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper Stuffing: 2 tbsp (25 mL) extra virgin olive oil 2 cups (500 mL) quartered shallots
1 celery stalk, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh sage 1 tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh thyme 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper 4 mild Italian sausages, (about 1 lb/500 g) 12 cups (2.8 L) cubed day-old Italian bread or French bread 1/4 cup (50 mL) chopped fresh parsley 1-1/4 cup (300 mL) sodium-reduced chicken stock
Sage Butter: 1/3 cup (75 mL) butter, softened 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 tbsp (15 mL) grated lemon rind 1 tbsp (15 mL) crumbled dried sage 1/2 tsp (2 mL) salt 1/2 tsp (2 mL) pepper Gravy: 1/3 cup (75 mL) allpurpose flour 2 cups (500 mL) sodiumreduced chicken stock 1 tbsp (15 mL) wine vinegar Stuffing: In large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; fry shallots, stirring occasionally, until deep golden, about 10 minutes. Add celery, garlic, sage, thyme, salt
and pepper; fry until celery is softened, about 3 minutes. Transfer to large bowl. Remove sausages from casings. In same skillet, fry sausages over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until crumbled and browned, about 5 minutes. Drain off fat. Add to shallot mixture along with bread and parsley; drizzle with stock and toss to combine. Let cool. (Make-ahead: Cover and refrigerate for
FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS We’d like to extend our warm wishes and gratitude to all our kind neighbours this holiday season. It’s been a privilege and a pleasure serving you.
McNulty’s Mobile Seed and DW Upholstery
Wayne, Dorothy, Kenneth and Megan
948-5678
Christmas has always meant reÁecting upon one’s blessings. We wish much happiness to all who bestowed good fortune upon us this year. God bless you all!
Busse Law Professional Corporation
Yvonne, Teena, Bonnie, Crystal Larry and Stuart
Christmas is a time for renewing our faith — in God, in ourselves and in our fellow man. For your faith in us we are ever so grateful and we look forward to your continued friendship. Happy Holidays!
up to 24 hours.) Sage Butter: In small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, shallot, lemon rind, sage, salt and pepper; set aside. Remove giblets and neck from turkey; reserve for stock, if desired. Pat turkey dry inside and out. Place turkey, breast side up, on work surface. Using fingers, carefully loosen skin over breasts and thighs. Spread half of the sage butter under skin to cover breasts and thighs. Insert sage leaves under skin. Loosely stuff neck and body cavities with about 6 cups (1.5 L) of the stuffing. Skewer cavities shut. Tie legs together; tuck wings under back. Place on rack in roasting pan. Spread remaining sage butter over skin. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place remaining stuffing in greased 11- x 7-inch (2 L) glass baking dish; cover and refrigerate. Tent with foil, tucking
in sides but leaving ends open. Roast in 325°F (160°C) oven for 3 hours. Uncover and roast until meat thermometer inserted into thickest part of thigh registers 185°F (85°C), 1 to 1-1/2 hours. Transfer to carving board and tent with foil; let stand for 20 to 30 minutes before carving. Meanwhile, increase heat to 400°F (200°C). Bake stuffing in dish for 20 minutes; uncover and bake until top is crisp, about 10 minutes. Gravy: Meanwhile, skim fat from pan juices. Whisk in flour; cook, stirring, over medium heat for 1 minute. Whisk in stock and vinegar; bring to boil, stirring and scraping up brown bits from bottom of pan. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring often, until thickened, about 8 minutes. Strain into warmed gravy boat. Serve with turkey and stuffing.
May your holidays be Àlled with seasonal joy, old-fashioned traditions, and the blessings of family and friends. Thank you for shopping with us. We look forward to your continued patronage with much appreciation.
E-Kay Enterprises George and Joan Ekman, Leroy and Tracy Ekman 948-2544 Shirley, Jason and staff •
948-3337
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -11
Merry Christmas
Mi isteria e e ti s brought to you by the Biggar Ministerial Association
Blessings on the Advent Journey
O Come, O Come Emmanuel Dear friends of this wonderful part of the world. The season of Advent and Christmas and New Years is filled with names and words and sounds and smells that remind us of great generosity. When we are persons of great generosity we are remembering what Jesus did for us - Jesus came to show us what a meaningful life looks like and to save us that we might know perfect happiness in heaven. All have received the invitation - no one can say I was excluded. Isaiah longed for the Messiah. Others did too. Gabriel asked a young Mary if she would cooperate with God. She said yes. Joseph also was pleased to be asked. Angels sang praises announcing the birth of Jesus to shepherds who went in haste to see, and kings followed with gifts and came to adore. We can hear the donkey and the bull and
sheep breathing warmth to the child - giving their all. We are invited to do all we can for Jesus and neighbor. I can smell meat pies and turkey cooking in our kitchen under the watchful eye of a providing Dad and loving Mom. Christmas and New Years Day (when we received lots of relatives) would be joyful and festive once again. Mom played the piano that had belonged to Dad’s mom and we all sang carols. We made our Christmas confessions and then went to Christmas mass. Each year during these days great memories are relived and I am grateful for a good Dad and Mom and a wonderful family. May God bless you abundantly during these days and in 2013. Much Love Father Mike Bedard, Our Lady of Fatima Parish and St Gabriel Parish
by Rev. Jane Gallagher, Biggar United Church December is upon us once again. It is a magical month filled with celebration, festivity, decorating, feasting and gathering with friends and family. We start celebrating Christmas, well before December ever dawns, and get swept up in all the excitement and things we have to do, need to do, want to do. It is easy to lose sight of what Christmas is about. Christmas comes and goes and we are sometimes left with a feeling of loss, as if something is missing. December is not the Season of Christmas, but the Season of Advent - a season that gets walloped, ignored and walked over, or more often run over, in the rush to get to Christmas. I hold on to Advent for dear life, for it keeps me anchored and rooted in a deeper vision and promise of what Christmas is about. Advent keeps me rooted in the reality of God active in the world - long ago with birth of the Christ child, but also in the here and now, and the promise of Christ’s coming again. Christmas is more than a one-time event of long ago, but the promise and wonder of God’s love that continues
to enter our lives in new and unexpected ways today, and that will come to fullness when Christ comes again. Advent acknowledges what Jesus began, by entering our world, is still unfolding, and will one day come to fullest expression. Advent, means ‘coming’. It recognizes the good news of God’s vision of life
different reality coming to be - a seed of new possibility, of new life, a different way of being and relating to the world around us. God’s vision of life for us and the world, that Christ proclaimed, is still a work in progress, still in a gestational stage, still waiting to be born in our lives and our world here today. God
(or God’s realm/kingdom) that is ever-near and still coming into the world. This good news, is the message of God’s gracious and enduring love, that Christ announced and embodied in his life and ministry. In his life, death and resurrection, Jesus planted in the world, a seed and promise of a
isn’t finished with us yet. God is still busy birthing a vision of new life in us, which Christ came to proclaim, show us and call us to be a part of. In this season of Advent, we are called to a place of stillness and wonder, to envision God’s dream of new life coming to birth in us and
With Wishes Warm & Bright We’re hoping your holiday is merry and bright Because serving you has been a delight -And while we’re in the holiday mood, Please accept our gratitude!
the world around us. We wait, in stillness, and open ourselves to God’s love waiting to be born in us in new ways. We open ourselves to God, like Mary did long ago - to dare to receive and nurture God’s gift of new life in us; to let God grow in us. Like Joseph we are challenged to accept God’s gift, even when it comes in the most unexpected ways, which will change our lives forever. We listen to the word of God calling us out of our ruts and routines, like the shepherds who heard the voice of angels, and then dared to venture from the routine of watching their flocks by night, to look for the Christ child in the very midst. Like explorers from a faraway land, with curiosity we are called to look for signs in the world around us, and search the wisdom of our day, to guide us to new life in Christ. This December, may the Advent journey take you to a place of new life unfolding in you and the world around you. May the journey take you beyond the festivity of Christmas celebrations, to a place filled with deep wonder, love and joy. Blessings, as you wait, watch and pray, and prepare for the coming of Christ in your life, today and for always.
Kurulak Investment and Insurance Corp. 403 Main St., Biggar
948-5200 email: kevin@kkurulak.net fax 948-5207
12- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Merry Christmas
Mi isteria
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
e e ti s
Angels and the Christmas Story by Pastor Terry Wicks, Biggar AGC Angels receive a lot of attention Christmas time. Many use various types of angel decorations to
adorn their homes and trees. Christmas movies portray them in a variety of roles said to depict the spirit of the season. These Hollywood portrayals may be
heartwarming, but do they accurately portray who angels are and what their role is? Since angels reside in heaven from where God’s sovereignly rules, God
alone is qualified to give an accurate description of who angels are and what they actually do. In the Bible, God reveals that angels are spirit beings who were
The holiday season is a time to gather with our friends and families to enjoy the blessings in our lives. It is also a time when we reÁect on the passing year, look ahead to the future and make goals for ourselves and our community. ReÁecting on the past year, 2012 proved to be exceptional. Numerous projects have been completed such as the Little Apple Park, the Downtown Centennial Park and the Sandra Schmirler Gold Olympic Park walking path which was enhanced with crackÀll and sealing. One very important and much needed project has begun with the construction of a new Diamond Lodge long term care facility. Also, in the very near future is the construction of a 3-storey 24 unit seniors complex. Biggar has experienced substantial growth in both the residential and commercial sectors over the past few years and shows signs of continued growth and prosperity in the future. 2012 also brought changes to both administration and council. We mourn the loss of Don Cleaveley who served on Council for three years. His dedication and love of this community was very obvious throughout his term of ofÀce. The 2012 election resulted in Ray Sadler being re-elected as Mayor along with the addition of one new Councillor, Alan Boyle. We congratulate Doug Arthur and Dave Brotzel on their retirement. We thank both men who have given the Town of Biggar many years of service and dedication. The Town of Biggar would like to welcome Marty Baroni as our Assistant Administrator along with his wife Destiny and girls Hailey and Isabella. Also, Marissa Cempron has joined our team at the Town OfÀce as our Accounts Clerk. As we embark into a New Year we hope each of you take the opportunity during the holiday season to relax and spend time with friends and family enjoying love and laughter. On behalf of the Council, Administration and staff, we wish you a Christmas that vies contentment, happiness and love, and we wish one and all a very happy and prosperous New Year!
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created by God for the purpose of worshipping Him, and obeying Him as ministering spirits (Hebrews 1:6-7, 14). They are employed by God to minister to people in need, and to communicate messages He had for people included in His divine purposes, and also to carry out the judgments of God. When the angels spoke, it was God Himself communicating His will, and it was crucial for the recipients to respond in full obedience. In accounts of Christ’s birth in Matthew 1 and 2 and Luke 1 and 2, God sent angels to deliver four life-changing announcements. These announcements contain information and principles that we would do well to respond to as God intended. 1. The angel Gabriel appeared to Zacharias the priest, to announce the birth of a son who would prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. He responded by naming his son John as instructed by God’s messenger. 2. The angel Gabriel also appeared to Mary, a virgin engaged to Joseph, to announce that she
would conceive a son by the Holy Spirit who would be a holy child called the Son of God. Mary responded by saying, “May it be done to me according to your word.” 3. An angel appeared to ensure Joseph that his fiancé Mary had not been unfaithful but would bear a child conceived of the Holy Spirit, whom they were to name Jesus, for He would save people from their sins. Joseph responded by taking Mary as his wife, and they named their child Jesus. 4. An angel of the Lord appeared to shepherds to announce Jesus’ birth with words of good news that a Saviour, Christ, the Lord had been born in Bethlehem. They immediately went to find the child and then glorified and praised God. Our response to the message of Christmas should include preparing our hearts to celebrate His coming, embracing the Saviour who is Christ the Lord, and responding in obedience and praise to His word which is always given for our good and His glory. May the announcements of the angels speak thus to our hearts this Christmas.
May all the joy and beauty of that peaceful Holy Night be with you this Christmas and make your New Year bright.
Merry Christmas
from Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Mi isteria
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -13
e e ti s
The Big Christmas Tree by Bev Dyck, Biggar Church of God The first year that our family had a Christmas tree was when I schemed with the neighbour’s high school daughter that when they would go to their northern property to bring back a Christmas tree for themselves, that they would find a little one for us. They did, and it was such a lovely surprise for my family. The next year, I got bolder and planned with the neighbour’s daughter that they bring us a big tree, as I had seen that they had had a big tree. When the neighbours pulled in to our yard with their w a g o n of large Christmas trees and unloaded one for us, I was so delighted, I think our family was delighted too. This tree was large - very, very large. Dad made a wooden stand from an orange box and the top of the tree touched the ceiling. This was very satisfying to me. Then my siblings and I made decorations. Such a tree needed many decorations. We made many chains and catstairs from coloured papers that had come with advertisements. We made paper maché ornaments and hung them with string. We made some kind of star and fastened it to the bent over top of the tree. We cut foil into thin strips to have tinsel. We crunched the tinsel up and tossed it on to the tree. The beautiful tree filled the entire corner of our kitchen. We had never had anything so beautiful in our home. Now we needed lots of
presents. My sister and I found many almost square blocks that were scraps of wood from the addition project that Dad was building on to the house. We took these blocks and coloured some quick pictures on several sides and then found newspaper and wrapped them up and put them under the tree. We coloured and wrapped all the blocks of wood that we could find. Later Mother added the gifts that they had purchased for us. I felt so satisfied as I surveyed this grand
tree and this huge pile of gifts. We were so like other people now. How good it felt! Christmas Day everyone opened their wood scrap packages and set them around them. There were thank yous. And the real gifts were opened. Later things were tidied up and I had no further recollection of what was done with those coloured blocks. I have always loved Christmas. However, it is no longer important to me to have the biggest tree or the biggest pile of presents. Christmas is the time of the year that we especially set aside to celebrate the great gift from Heaven, that God would send His Son
as a wee baby to become our Saviour. What a marvel this is! Christmas is the time that God became Emmanuel: “God with us.” None of us want to be a weird oddity. We want to know that we are normal. We want to know that our struggles and our fears are normal and common to people. God has promised us in His Word “That no temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13 God has not left us to try to contend with life on our own. God is close by to all of us. God wants to join us in our life and merely awaits our invitation. We are like other people and God would like to help us to not be alone.
“We have come to worship Him” by Archie Jantzen Alexander the Great was born in Macedonia; did any “wise men” from the East make a special trip to see that baby? When Caesar Augustus was born in Rome, did they make a pilgrimage there? King Herod had a baby boy, too; did they even know that? Why did they want to worship the One who was born to “King of the Jews?” They must have known He was more than the usual “King”. They were turned aside from the royal palace and the royal city, and directed to a little town, a very ordinary house, and a very humble little family. That didn’t stop them from presenting their gifts and doing homage to a little child. We’re familiar with “the rest of the story.” When this child grew
up, He made claims that so angered the opposition, He was eventually executed. His body was put in a tomb, but it didn’t stay there. Christmas - Good Friday - Easter! His followers saw Him, alive again. And when He left, angels promised that He would someday return, just as He Himself had predicted. We don’t have to know “Handel’s Messiah” to acknowledge Jesus as “King of kings, and Lord of lords.” And we don’t have to ride a camel across the desert to worship Him. We can worship Him in our family Christmas celebrations; we can worship Him together with other believers at the many Christmas
programs and parties in our community; and we can worship Him more often than once or twice a year. Let’s simply make the effort to acknowledge Him, in private and in public. We’ll never in our whole life meet anybody more important; but we will, when our life here is done, meet Him. Because, “at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Phil. 2:10, 11 NIV alt.) Let us again seek Him; let us lay our treasures at His feet; let us worship Him. Have a truly blessed Christmas!
Merry Christmas
from Our Place to Yours
Filled With Our Gratitude We’re hoping your holiday season is an equal mix of harmony and joy. For your goodwill and trust, please accept a generous measure of our sincere gratitude.
L I V E
W E L L
W I T H
PHARMASAVE® 113-3rd Ave. W., Biggar
Management and staff
948-5052
215 Main St., Biggar • 948-3315
14- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Mi isteria
e e ti s
Christmas Time Is a Call to Action by Bill Dafoe Throughout
Advent,
we have been preparing our lives and hearts for
Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
Hon. Gerry Ritz, P.C., M.P. Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food Battlefords - Lloydminster www.gerryritzmp.com
Signs of the season are everywhere, from the frost on the ground to the chill in the air, spirits are rising and goodwill abounds as Santa gets ready to go on his rounds. So we’d like to join in and spread some good cheer by thanking the folks who have stopped by this year. Your friendship and loyalty we’ll never forget, and we hope you’ll enjoy the best Christmas yet!
Misty Shadows Massage Therapy ~ Michelle Spuzak ~ 948-2548
the coming of Emmanuel, God with us. There is much housecleaning to be done in our lives to bring them into line with the expectations of religion. Our secular society has many customs, values and mores that probably cause concern for a loving God. However God sent us His son, Jesus, to bring us a very simple message, “ God loves us just the way we are.” Like all parents, God desires that the children have all the best, however, if we stray, He will love us. In that love there is hope that, since we are the children of the King of Heaven, we will work at acquiring the traits that will make our lives pleasing to the Father. God did not make junk. You are not an accident. You, too, are a Promise. You are a prince or princess of heaven. This stage of your life is like the “terrible twos,” temporary. You were a spirit being, you are a spirit being and you will return to heaven a spirit being. You are star dust. You are golden. This Jesus that God sent did not follow the mores of his time. He was inclusive of all races, cultures, professions, men, women and children. Customs and traditions had to have meaning and purpose. Edwin Markham said, “Nothing is worth the making if it does not make the man.” Jesus questioned everything. He had it tough.
Innuendo, fear, censure, escape as a refugee to a strange land, poverty, persecution, non acceptance, abandonment of friends and finally an infamous death. He was a man of sorrows and he understands our sorrows. So, what do we need to take away from this Emmanuel? God wished this Emmanuel, “God
with us,” would bring reconciliation and love. Acceptance of the underdog, the unwed mother, the beggar with a cup outstretched for water, the wounded stranger who is not like us, the adulterous woman, the tax collector, all women, in short, all and everyone is the vocation that Jesus calls us to love. We must love without
qualification, just like our loving heavenly father. It is more important to ask the question, “What would Jesus do?” rather than, “What did Jesus say?” for we are the hands and feet of Jesus. We are called to action. It is not enough to open the door to the stable, we are called to open the door to our heart for all people.
Christmas Joy and greetings from PALs by Pastor Mark Kleiner Oh, the controversies around the Christmas tree: when to put them up, and when to take them down; whether to buy a real one, or go the artificial route; and then, whether to place a star or an angel on the top. Whatever your Christmas tree tradition(s), here is a prayer to use when you first light your tree, or whenever you gather around it: God our Creator, we praise you for this Christmas tree. It is a sign of your
Catch The
Spirit! “As another season comes to a close, I want to thank all my awesome clients for your patronage. I’ve enjoyed being involved in your journey towards health and Àtness. I’m excited and looking forward to working with you in the new season.” …Merry Christmas, Wayne
New Beginnings Wellness Centre 114 - 2nd Ave. W., Biggar Personal Trainer, Wayne Baldwin
948-2548, cell 948-8048 wbaldwin@sasktel.net
everlasting, evergreen presence. It is a sign of the reign of heaven, sheltering the creatures of the earth under its open arms. It is a sign of the cross, shining with the light of your grace and mercy. Gracious God, let your blessing come upon us as we illumine this tree. Send us your Son, the tender shoot of Jesse, who brings us light and life. May all who stand in its light eagerly welcome the true Light which never fades. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen. (from Sundays in Seasons 2013, available from Augsburg Fortress, (c) 2012. Reprinted by permission) All year long, the message of Christmas is heard in church – that God came to earth to become one of us in Jesus Christ. At Christmas we focus on Jesus’ arrival in the humblest of ways, as a little baby born to an unwed teenage mother. As we prepare for the coming Christ child, we prepare by lighting the candles on a wreath, one a week, for four weeks in a row. Each of these candles signifies something about what this baby Jesus means for us and for our world:
hope, love, joy and peace. The Christmas season may find you in good spirits or in bad, feeling lonely or connected with others. No matter where you are at, this baby born in Bethlehem comes for you, to bring hope, love, joy and peace into your life. You may wonder, as I often do, how this can be. What sort of proof is there that this baby, born in Bethlehem 2,000 odd years ago, could make any difference in my life? We may look so hard for proof that we miss the most compelling proof of all: that when we give up trying to prove the story and simply treasure it, it begins to change us, and we find that the very proof we had been seeking outside ourselves is closer than we ever imagined: in our hearts, as they are renewed to experience hope; in our relationships, shot through unexpectedly with love and joy; in our community, where we begin to discover the possibility of true and lasting peace. May you know the good news of great joy: God’s greatest gift has come to us, a baby born in a manger, the one in whom we discover our true hope, love, joy and peace. Amen.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -15
Frozen Christmas Pudding (From cbc.ca/ bestrecipes) Combine classic Christmas pudding flavours with ice cream, et voilà; an updated, simple-to-prepare dessert. The best part? You can make it up to five days ahead. Servings: 12 1 cup (250 mL) candied pineapple or candied mixed peel 1/2 cup (125 mL) halved candied red cherries 1/2 cup (125 mL) halved candied green cherries 1/2 cup (125 mL) golden raisins 1/4 cup (50 mL) brandy or rum 4 cups (1 L) vanilla ice
cream 1 cup (250 mL) chopped pecans, toasted 1/2 cup (125 mL) slivered almonds, toasted Chocolate Orange Sauce 1/2 cup (125 mL) Whipping cream 1 tbsp (15 mL) Corn syrup 3 oz (90 g) bittersweet chocolate, chopped 1 tbsp (15 mL) orange liqueur 1 tsp (5 mL) grated orange rind In large microwaveable bowl, combine pineapple, red and green cherries, raisins and brandy; microwave at High for 2 minutes, stirring twice. Let cool completely. (Or
cover and soak at room temperature for 8 hours or overnight.) Soften ice cream in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Stir pecans and almonds into fruit mixture; stir in ice cream. Pack into prepared mould, smoothing top. Cover with overhang (a plate larger than the mold, that overhangs the mold) and freeze until solid, about 12 hours. (Make-ahead: Overwrap with heavy-duty foil and freeze for up to 5 days.) Chocolate Orange Sauce In small saucepan, bring cream and corn syrup to boil; add chocolate, liqueur and
orange rind, whisking until smooth. Let stand until thickened, about 15 minutes. (Make-ahead: Transfer to airtight container. Place plastic
Christmas tree sap clean-up Decorating is one of the many traditions associated with the holiday season. The family Christmas tree is arguably the most prominent decoration. Having a live tree inside the home can be aweinspiring, but it can also be quite messy. The idea of bringing a formerly live tree inside a home as a decoration may seem odd, especially when individuals are faced with the aftermath, which is often a trail of pine needles and very sticky sap. A freshly cut pine tree will ooze sap, which tends to be quite sticky and messy and notoriously difficult to remove. Even a Christmas tree that is
average in stature can generate a fair amount of sap, and it takes just a few drops of sap to make a mess. If sap has you stuck for clean-up ideas, consider these home remedies. On clothing: • Use rubbing alcohol on the sap stain. Allow the alcohol to sit on the stain for 30 minutes and then wash as usual. • Make a paste of laundry detergent and water and apply it to the stain. • Ammonia also may remove a sap stain. Just test an inconspicuous part of the clothing to determine if applying ammonia changes its colour.
On carpeting: • Freeze the sap with ice cubes and then carefully pick out the hardened pieces. • Try vodka as an adhesive remover on the sap stain. • Rubbing alcohol also may be able to break up sap in carpet fibers. On hands: • Any greasy, oilbased product can work, such as olive oil or even vegetable shortening. Rub on the skin, and the sap should come right off. • A lubricant like WD40 has also been known to remove sap. • Hand sanitizer, which is comprised mainly of
alcohol, can help dissolve sap so it can be rinsed off. • Make a paste of mineral oil (baby oil) and baking soda. This should help dissolve the sap and make your hands soft in the process. In hair: • Sap can be notoriously difficult to get out of human hair or animal fur. Try coating the sap in natural peanut butter or mayonnaise, both of which have a high oil content. Allow to sit for a while and then comb out the sap with a finetoothed comb. • If tree sap cannot be removed, cutting it out may be the only option.
wrap directly on surface; cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving.) To serve, let pudding stand in refrigerator for 15 minutes. Using overhang, remove from pan. Dip sharp knife in
hot water and wipe dry; slice pudding. Serve with sauce. TIP: To toast nuts, place in single layer on baking sheet; bake in 350°F (180°C) oven until golden, about 6 minutes.
Wishing you a season Àlled with lots of love, laughter and joy. For all your support, we are deeply grateful.
Custom RooÀng & MADGE CONTRACTING Jann, Solana and family
948-5453
May the peace and joy of this holiday season be with you always
Duperow Co-op Management and staff
And may the spirit of Christmas warm your heart and hearth this season. We appreciate the gift of your patronage and look forward to seeing you in the new year.
Steven Balzer and staff 1-800-667-6919
May your season be blessed with joy and success.
Keelar Contracting Ltd. Larry, Colleen family and staff
306-237-9127
16- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Culinary treats for your Christmas
Everyone enjoys homemade treats during the holidays, give them as gifts!
Merry Christmas and
Happy Holidays from Kirk Ewen and staff
Doctors Vision Care 223 Main St., Biggar 1-855-651-3311
A Special Christmas Wish
Here’s hoping you enjoy generous portions of love and laughter with family and friends for the main course of your Christmas season!
Hannigan·s Hamburgers & Pizza 948-3335 • Main Street, Biggar
Just about everyone looks forward to seasonal sweets, here are some ideas to get creative with your favorite holiday indulgences. • Rethink your cookies. Put a twist on tradition, consider some alternatives to the holiday cookie sampler, such as cookies with personalized messages. Give these cookies out as gifts, but not before filling decorative jars with all of the dry ingredients needed for your favorite cookie recipe. • Take a dip. Dipping store-bought confections, such as peppermint sticks, candy canes, candied orange peel, shortbread cookies, or even fresh figs in goodquality chocolate (a mix of dark, milk and white chocolate is even better!) will transform these everyday items into tasty, holiday-inspired treats. • Think drinks. Nothing says holidays like hot chocolate -
especially when it’s homemade. Make your own mix with ground chocolate and sugar or package a high-quality store brand in a festively decorated jar, then add some peppermint sticks, chocolate-coated spoons or homemade marshmallows to the mix. • Have a jam session. Handmade jams, preserves and fruit compotes are always appreciated. Your creation can be accompanied by some scones or some great toasting bread. • Bark that’s as good as its bite. Chocolate bark is a delicious nobake treat that’s so easy to make you’ll wonder why you’ve waited so long to try it. Recipes are everywhere, and you can customize the bark with your favorite nuts, dried fruits and other tasty tidbits. • Breakfast basket: Fill a basket with homemade
pancakes and waffle mix and a bottle of real maple syrup, or go continental with a batch of freshly baked scones and a jar of lemon curd. For the caffeine lover, use two mugs, one filled with a favorite gourmet coffee or tea and the other packed with some homemade pastries or a jar of jam. • Pasta basket: The centerpiece of this gift could be a jar of your famous tomato sauce, which is surrounded by a package of fresh pasta, a bulb of garlic and a wedge of Parmesan
cheese. • Pizza basket: Start with a package of homemade pizza dough, add a jar of pizza sauce or pesto made from the basil in your garden, then decorate the basket with a merry mix of cheeses and popular pizza add-ons, such as pepperoni, olives, olive oil, garlic, mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, and small packets of spices, such as oregano or red pepper flakes. Think homemade for some very special Christmas gifts.
Boost holiday spirits with holiday ‘spirits’ The holiday season is a festive time of year when opportunities to entertain abound. The search may be on for the ideal food and beverage recipes to tie into the holiday season. Although just about any drink can be given a holiday spin with the right name (think Merry Martinis), you may want to come up with a theme drink that fits with your particular party. Explore these ideas for delicious and festive alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. White Christmas Hot Chocolate 3 cups light cream or half-and-half 3/4 cup vanilla candy melts, chopped 1 teaspoon vanilla Pinch of ground cinnamon 1 ounce Irish cream liqueur Combine 1 cup of the cream with the candy in a saucepan. Melt over
Best Wishes for 2013 GPC Board of Directors, Staff and Students www.greatplainscollege.ca
low heat, being careful not to burn. Add the remaining cream, vanilla and cinnamon until everything is heated. Add the liqueur and stir. Garnish with more cinnamon. Serve warm. The Candy Cane 1 ounce vodka 1 ounce peppermint schnapps 1/2 ounce heavy cream Dash of grenadine for color Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Pour into glasses filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a candy cane. Sweet Santa Shots 1 ounce Midori liqueur 1/2 ounce grenadine syrup Carefully layer the grenadine syrup and the Midori liqueur in a shot glass to have red and green layers. Holiday Sparkle 2 ounces apple cider 1 ounce club soda Cinnamon stick Mix cider with club soda and serve in a tall glass with a cinnamon stick garnish. A refreshing and nonalcoholic drink option.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -17
Merry Christmas
La Befana, an Italian tradition for Epiphany by Delta Fay Cruickshank of The Independent The day the Three Wise Men, following a star, came to Bethlehem, to see the Christ child is referred to as the Epiphany. This auspicious visit is celebrated in Christian churches throughout the world on or around January 6. In Italy, especially in the town of Urbania in the district of Pesaro, people dress up as old ladies, and go about gifting the good with sweets, and leaving coal or garlic for those who were not so good during the year. This old lady is known as La Befana. This is her legend: Once upon time ago, an old woman lived in a small hut, in the hills of Italy. She once had a husband and a child, but they had died, leaving her all alone in the world. She spends every day sweeping and baking. One night, she noticed a bright star in the sky,
but went back to her sweeping and baking. Shortly after, a caravan led by Three Wise Men stopped at her hut and invited the old lady to come with them to search for the Christ Child, and present him with their gifts. She refused, because she had her sweeping and baking to do. After the caravan left, La Befana remembered her own child. Missing him so much, she gathered together some gifts and went after the caravan. But, she got and never found the Three Wise Men or the Christ Child. Still now, thousands of years later, she continues to search for the Christ Child on every eve of the Epiphany. On this night, she comes down the chimney of every home, looking for the Child. Because she is such a good housekeeper, she uses her broom to sweep away the soot, leaving the home tidy. She also leaves a gift,
hoping to find the Christ Child. She leaves these gifts in the stockings left out by the children. If she finds out that the children have been bad,
she may leave a lump of coal, or garlic! She will refresh herself with a glass of wine and a biscuit the children have left out for her, and then
go on to the next house. Over the years she has come to realize that her searching is not in vain, because in a way, the Christ Child can be found in all children. So, on January 5, 2013, the eve of the Epiphany,
if you see an old lady, in tattered clothing, wearing a black shawl and a kerchief, carrying a broom and a basket, know that it is La Befana, continuing her search for the Christ Child!
To all our valued clients go our warmest wishes for a great holiday season. Thanks for making us look good with your loyal support.
Mane Essence Hair Boutique 207 Main St., Biggar
In Italy, on January 6, La Befana goes from house to house delivering gifts of sweet treats to the good children, coal or garlic to those who have not been so good all year!
Christina, Barb, Amanda and Sara 948-2712
Saskatoon/Biggar
Duane Neufeldt Serving Biggar and Area Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and every happiness in the New Year.
948-8055
Randy Weekes, M.L.A. Biggar Constituency 948-4880, toll free 1-877-948-4880 Box 1413, 106-3rd Avenue West, Biggar
33 years of serving Biggar and area 1979-2012
Even though snow is blanketing the landscape, we’re warmed by having such good friends and neighbors around us this season. We hope you have a joyful and festive holiday, and a very happy and healthy year ahead.
Carter Plumbing & Heating
Water Heaters, Softeners, Pumps, Furnaces, Underground Sprinklers, Air-conditioning
948-2624
Hats Off To Merry Christmas and many thanks for makingA us feel so welcome here. New Year
The smells of gingerbread, cinnamon and cookies baking, stir our memories of Christmases past and remind us of how fortunate we are to be a part of this community.
Another great season is shaping up and we owe it all to you, our members and friends. Thank you for your support… Brett Barber and staff
…and to you, our customers and friends!
~ and ~ Here’s hoping your holiday season Ànds you laughing all the way!
Ladies 30 min. Workout …Nova Wood Centre, 104- 6th Ave. E. (south door), Biggar • 948-2208
or 948-9750 (cell)
M & N Repair
Merry Christmas and many thanks for your generous support.
Mike, Darlene and staff
701-4th Ave. E,…Nova TruckWood Route East,104- 6th Ave. E. Centre, Biggar • 948-3996
BIGGAR HOTEL Tammy, Monty and staff
18- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Make-your-own holiday ornaments Holiday decorating is a big part of the holiday season. Bins are taken out of the attic or garage, and decorations are once again given their opportunity to shine for several weeks before being packed away again. Among the many decorations families use to deck the halls are ornaments that were made by hand. This year creating homemade ornaments can be a crafty project that helps families make new holiday memories.
Christmas tree ornaments come in all shapes and sizes and often tell the stories of holiday traditions. There are several different ways to create personalized, do-it-yourself ornaments and leave the cheap, easily broken ornaments from the dollar stores behind. Photo ornaments Fun photo ornaments showcase how a family has changed and grown over the years. Experiment with different ways to create these ornaments. You can
glue a photo to a ceramic ornament and cover it with decoupage glaze to set it permanently. Try purchasing clear, glass ornaments, then remove the top of the ornament, which is usually springloaded, before slipping a photo inside and replacing the top. You also can laminate a photo, punch a hole in the top and affix a ribbon. Ceramic ornaments The popularity of paint-it-yourself pottery has led to an increase
in ceramic and crafts shops across the country. During the holiday season such shops offer many holiday items that can be painted. Often the store will then fire the pieces after they are painted so that they are shiny and hardened for display. Those who want to do their painting at home can visit their local craft or hobby shop, where typically there are unfinished ceramic ornaments that can be
With our thanks for your valued patronage. Stay safe this holiday, don’t drink and drive. Call us to drive you.
New York Taxi
948-4949
With thanks to all of those who’ve inspired us this past year. We are truly grateful for your friendship and continued loyalty .
Fabric scraps can be sewn and stuffed with potpourri for homemade scent satchels. Handdrawn pictures can be made and laminated and hung on the tree. The only obstacle with regard to DIY ornaments is a limited imagination. Homemade items can add whimsy and a personal touch to the holiday season.
Season’s Greetings THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT
Season’s Greetings…
To all our friends and customers out in Biggar and area -- we appreciate your business and wish you all a Happy & Healthy New Year.
~Murray & Lori McNally~ • Tara Lynn, Lorraine, Crystal, Jeffery, and Helen
Season’s Greetings…
Tara Lynn, Lorraine, Crystal, Jeffery, and Helen
Have A HAPPY Y! A D I L O H
identify to whom each stocking belongs. Crafty individuals also can turn plain wood plaques into signs with clever sayings, such as “Park your sleigh here.” Scavenge around the house Young children can use any medium for making ornaments. Garlands made of macaroni or popcorn are traditional.
Young children can use any medium for making ornaments. Garlands made of macaroni or popcorn are traditional. cutouts to boxes and rocking horses can be purchased and finished. Turn keepsake boxes into painted and ribbonadorned gift boxes. Stain a treasure chest that can be used to store reindeer snacks for Santa’s crew. Turn small decorative pieces into ornaments for the tree. Paint and affix wood initials onto stocking holders to
Wishing you a holiday Filled with merriment and mirth — Plus lots of love and laughter, With joy and peace on earth!
Linda and staff
painted with acrylic paints found right in the next aisle. A finishing coat of clear glaze will help protect the ornaments from year to year. Wood crafts Many of today’s craft centers have expanded to include sections devoted to unfinished wood items. Everything from letters to animal
AUTOMATICS/STANDARDS th
525 - 44 St. E., Saskatoon • 242-2225 “We do things right allomatically”
Mistletoe Mistletoe, it is told, the day. This is possible was considered the how the modern day plant of peace in ancient custom of kissing under Scandinavia. If enemies the mistletoe came met under the mistletoe, about. To all our acquaintances both old they declared a truce for
and goes our gratitude and our best wish
Happy New Year! We’re sending this little note your way. To wish you a happy holiday Filled with enough joy and cheer, To last throughout the coming year. Thanks for your patronage and we’ll see you next year!
REBEL LANDSCAPING Ed Kolenosky and family
948-2879 or 948-7207
... And from the heart, too, Go our very best wishes To each one of you! Merry Christmas and many thanks for your kindness and your continued business!
Angie’s Hair Salon & Barber Shop Angie, and Sherry
Your Healthy Living Weight Loss & Wellness Centre Anne Livingston
219 Main St., Biggar • 948-3696
... Is the chance to let you know how grateful we are for your friendship and support as we wish you all a very merry season and a Happy New Year.
Angie’s Hair Salon & Barber Shop It’s been and a gift for us Angie, Sherry serving folks like you.
Thanks! Living Oli Your Healthy Weight Loss & Wellness C
WEASIE’S Gourmet Blends Anne Livingston Louise and staff Loui
219Big Biggar • 948-369 211 Main St, BiMain ggar •St., 948-1795
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -19
Merry Christmas
Test your knowledge of popular Christmas movies the rat, light the lamp, not the rat! Put me out, put me out, put me out!” 14. “Tell me something, Billy. How come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly monsters?” 15. “Wanna see some magic? OK, let’s watch you disappear!” 16. “That’s not ‘my’ Christmas! ‘My’ Christmas is filled with
laughter, and joy... and this: my Sandy Claws outfit. I want you to make it.” 17. “That’s neither pig nor pork, it’s beef.” 18. “I passed through the seven levels of the Candy Cane forest, through the sea of swirly twirly gum drops, and then I walked through the Lincoln Tunnel.”
Answers: 10. “A Charlie Brown Christmas” 11. “A Christmas Carol” 12. “The Polar Express” 13. “The Muppets Christmas Carol” 14. “Gremlins” 15. “Bad Santa” 16. “The Nightmare Before Christmas” 17. “Babes in Toyland” 18. “Elf”
dinner and the people who sold it on sale. Amen.” 6. “Iris, in the movies, we have leading ladies and we have the best friend. You, I can tell, are a leading lady, but for some reason, you’re behaving like the best friend.” 7. “Who gave you permission to tell Charlie there was no Santa Claus? I think if we’re going to destroy our son’s delusions, I should be a part of it.” 8. “I want to wash my hands, my face, my hair with snow.” 9. “We’re not just doing this for us. We’re doing it for the kids. For every kid who ever sat on Santa’s lap. For every little girl who left cookies and milk for Santa on Christmas night. For every little boy who opens a package Christmas morning and finds clothes instead of toys. It breaks my heart.” 10. “We all know that Christmas is a big commercial racket. It’s run by a big Eastern syndicate you know.” 11. “I fear you more than any spectre I have seen. But as I know your purpose is to do me good, and as I hope to live to be another man from what I was, I am prepared to bear your company, and do it with a thankful heart. Will you not speak to me?” 12. “Seeing is believing, but sometimes the most real things in the world are the things we can’t see.” 13. “Light the lamp, not
Answers 1. “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” 2. “Miracle on 34th Street” 3. “The Simpson’s Christmas” 4. “A Christmas Story” 5. “Home Alone” 6. “The Holiday” 7. “The Santa Clause” 8. “White Christmas” 9. “Jingle All the Way”
What would the holidays be without snowflakes falling outside, a mug of hot cocoa in hand and a favorite Christmas movie on television? Television is full of feelgood movies come the holiday season. Choose from among classic flicks you have watched year after year or new movies vying for spots as soonto-be favorites. Watching Christmas movies is a holiday tradition for many families. So much so that lines from popular movies are easily remembered and recognized. Those who can recite movies verbatim might enjoy testing their mettle with the following Christmas quiz loaded with memorable quotes from some holiday classics. Movie Quotes Quiz 1. “It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags.” 2. “Uh, since the United States Government declares this man to be Santa Claus, this court will not dispute it. Case dismissed.” 3. “If TV has taught me anything, it’s that miracles always happen to poor kids at Christmas. It happened to Tiny Tim, it happened to Charlie Brown, it happened to The Smurfs, and it’s gonna happen to us!” 4. “I want an official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200 shot range model air rifle.” 5. “Bless this highly nutritious microwavable macaroni and cheese
May you and yours revel in the splendor of the season.
R.M. of Biggar #347 Council and staff 948-2422
With thanks and glad tidings from us this holiday season.
Gift Certificates available
KRF Auto Centre May peace, joy, harmony and contentment visit your home during this special time of year. We are sincerely grateful and look forward to your continued friendship.
• Granitex Baked-on Coating • Vortex Spray-in Box liners • Auto Accessories • Detailing • Trailer Rentals 227 - 1st Ave. East, Biggar • 948-1722
1st Ave. West, Biggar • 948-2700
Jack, Carolyn and families
Friends like you are just our style.
love peace of joy blessings the season Wishing you and your family, all the gifts of this magical time of year. For your friendship and support, we are deeply grateful and look forward to serving you in the year ahead.
Merry Christmas! Grondin Funeral Services Ltd. 948-2669
Nothing could be sweeter for us than knowing people like you.
NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS
Happy Holidays from all of us to all of you. Thanks for stopping by this past year.
It’s always a treat to see you and we look forward to your continued friendship.
Biggar Esso
216 Main St., Biggar
Ted, Olivia and Yvan 948-3600
Sandy, Larry, Linda and Vickie
948-4855
20- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Merry Christmas
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Easy ways to be ‘green’ for the holidays While the holiday season is a time of joy, giving and religious reflection, it also can be a time of excess. Holiday parties, meals brimming with more food than the average person can
consume, wrapping paper tossed aside after minimal usage, and shoppers venturing for miles in cars in search of presents can all prove wasteful. For the environmentally conscious, the holiday season is a great opportunity to put your ideals to use. Although it may seem like a challenging task, going green for the holidays is easier than you might think. * Get a live Christmas tree. Christmas trees are planted expressly for the purpose of being cut down and turned into holiday
decor. Responsible tree farms will plant many more trees than is needed for the purpose of Christmas trees. Be a good steward for the environment and recycle your tree once the holidays are over. Some recycling centers will pick them up for free or a small fee. • Consider giving food as a gift. Food is consumable, doesn’t take up space, and locally grown food does not require shipping or wasteful packaging. It’s an ideal gift for those who already have everything. • Cut back on holiday decor. Most people love showcasing their Christmas spirit with decorations. However, many decorative products are produced overseas and shipped over to North America on large vessels that require a lot of fuel.
Think about reducing your decorations or replacing plastic and metal decorations for all-natural options. Branches of holly or twigs tied with ribbon to form a natural wreath are just as decorative as store-bought plastic decorations. • Don’t leave lights on for extended periods of time. Homes and businesses bedecked in holiday lights are staples of the season. However, extra lights, inflatable lawn Santas and other accessories consume substantial amounts of energy. Instead of leaving lights and other decorative items running for hours each night, turn them off after a little while to save energy. • Donate money in lieu of gifts. Choose environmentally responsible charities and donate funds to
May you find everything you want under the tree, and in your heart this holiday season. For the gift of your friendship, we are sincerely grateful.
Ivan and Bernice Young and Paul Grodnick 948-3381
Hope the holidays bring you good cheer, and Àll you with the spirit of the season. We’re very grateful for your patronage. Please come and see us soon.
Biggar Liquor Board Store Lana and Cindy
948-3575
Biggar Electrical Services 948-5291
their efforts in the name of people who do not need another package of pajamas. • Use decomposable shipping peanuts. Shipping peanuts are environmentally friendly packing products that are made from cornstarch. When they come in contact with water, they dissolve -- making for easy clean-up and less trash. • Wrap gifts with wrapping paper
alternatives. Wrapping paper is a luxury item and one that tends to be wasteful. There are many items around the house that can be recycled into decorative gift wrap. Sew scraps of fabric together for a patchwork bag or use glossy photos from a fashion magazine to papier mache a box. When you think creatively, you’re bound to come up with some very usable and ecofriendly ideas.
Tips when buying a natural Christmas tree Many people harbor strong opinions with regard to which type of Christmas tree they want to purchase. Some cannot live without a natural, freshlycut Christmas tree, while others prefer the convenience of artificial trees. Those who insist on a natural tree might want to consider the following tips when buying what’s likely their biggest decorative item of the holiday season. • Choose the right location. When looking for the right place to set up your natural tree, it’s best to choose a spot that’s cool and free of drafts. The tree should not be placed near heat sources, including appliances, fireplaces or vents, because such heat sources create a safety hazard and can make it difficult for the tree to retain moisture. There should also be ample space between the top of the tree and the ceiling. * Place some covering on the ground beneath
the tree. Even a freshly cut natural tree will shed needles over the course of the holiday season. Before placing the stand in the location you’ve chosen, put some type of covering, such as a tree bag, beneath the stand so it’s easier to gather all those needles once the holiday season has ended. * Remember that natural trees are thirsty. Men and women who have never had a natural Christmas tree in the past might be surprised at just how thirsty natural trees get. The stand’s reservoir should have lots of water, which should never dip below the stump. If the water dips below the stump, you might be forced to cut a little more off the bottom of the trunk to ensure the tree will make it through the holiday season. That can be a hassle once the tree has been decorated, so be sure to check the water in the reservoir at least once per day to maintain adequate water levels.
It’s the holiday season and we’re all aglow As we recall all the good folks that we’ve come to know!
Adrian and Barbara de Haan Lyle Zbeeshko
Season’s Greetings!
With sincere best wishes to our neighbors, patrons and friends. Your support means everything to us. Thanks!
Chico’s Autoworks Richard Livingston
948-5077
Bear Hills RDC Board and staff
948-2295
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -21
Safety should be a holiday tradition, too Celebrants and shoppers annually spend billions of dollars during the holiday season. With so much money exchanging hands, it is imperative for shoppers and revelers to use caution to avoid incidents that can put a damper on such a festive time of year. Though many people who look forward to the holiday season for all the right reasons, there are some who see this time of year as a prime opportunity to prey on the generosity or distraction Christmas brings. Thieves know that the holidays can be hectic, and they use this to their advantage, knowing full well people tend to store high-priced items in their homes during this time of the year. Heeding certain safety tips during the holidays can help keep you and your loved ones
safe. Stagger shopping times Being a creature of habit may not be advantageous come the holidays. Oftentimes, potential burglars monitor neighborhoods to see when residents come and go. It can take mere minutes for a thief to get into a home and then abscond with valuables. Creating a situation where there is always someone home or at least the appearance that someone is home might dissuade a thief from targeting your home. When you venture out to shop, do so at different times so you’re not establishing a recognizable pattern that gives a thief a sense of security and a perfect window of time to break in. Triple-check your home
Celebrants and shoppers annually spend billions of dollars during the holiday season. With so much money exchanging hands, it is imperative for shoppers and revelers to use caution to avoid incidents that can put a damper on such a festive time of year.
Warmest Holiday Greetings… Joy, peace and good health to you and those you love!
Heartland Health Region
Security experts warn that most burglaries occur during daytime hours when homes are empty. The main point of entry is on the ground floor via a rear or a side door. Access through a garage door is another common way thieves gain access to a home. Before leaving the house, make sure that all doors and windows are locked and that the garage door cannot be opened. Many times thieves are able to simply enter a home through an unlocked window. The key is to make it as difficult as possible for a burglar to get inside your home. Running out of the home for parties, shopping and other social events could derail safety precautions. If need be, leave a checklist by the front door to remind you to safeguard the home before exiting.
Park in well-lit areas Cars are prime targets for burglaries. Many times shoppers visit the car frequently during shopping excursions and store gifts in the trunk, only to return for more shopping. Thieves recognize there may be a bounty of merchandise inside. First and foremost, all items in the car should be stored out of sight to deter interest in your vehicle. Secondly, make sure that the car is locked and that the security system (if there is one) is engaged, as merchandise in a car is not often covered by standard auto insurance policies. In addition, park as close as you can to the store entrance or beneath a bright light. Poor visibility encourages thieves. Watch your wallet Cash is a very attractive prospect for thieves because it is largely untraceable and easily spent. While shoppers who want to curb high credit card bills might favor cash, it is important not to carry too much around. Spread out purchases over a few days so that you do not have to carry large quantities of cash. When using an ATM at the mall or at the bank, always be aware of your surroundings, including fellow customers. It may be worth paying multiple service fees to withdraw small amounts of cash rather than withdrawing a large amount of money that thieves can target. Remove extraneous credit cards when
shopping. Should your wallet be stolen or go missing, this will eliminate the number of accounts that thieves can use and also cuts down on the number of accounts that need to be closed out. You should never carry your social security card in your wallet because this increases your risk of being victimized by identity theft.
Request to sign for packages Many shipping carriers have eliminated the need for package recipients to sign for merchandise. Recipients can now choose to have boxes and bags left outside the front door. To decrease the risk of theft, always choose to sign for packages, regardless of how safe your neighborhood may be.
Another opportunity to tell you how much we appreciate your support.
Happy Holidays!
~ Board and staff ~
The thing we value most about our business is the chance to meet people like you! Merry Christmas and much happiness to you this holiday season.
221 Main St. • Biggar Kelly, Floyd, Amanda (Ryan), Jeffrey and Makenzie; and staff.
It’s Been A Pleasure Serving You! Happy holidays and many thanks for your kind patronage this past year.
NCM Home Maintenance Nick Maguire 948-4558
A world of thanks and best wishes to our neighbours, customers and friends.We feel fortunate to serve great folk like you!
1-866-948-2643 • Biggar
22- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Merry Christmas
Significance of Midnight Mass Christmas is one of the most celebrated dates on the Christian calendar. Commemorating the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ is only surpassed in importance by the celebration of Easter, a time when Christians remember Christ’s
sacrifice of life for His people. Christmas is often celebrated with much joy and fervor all around the world, with exchanges of gifts and special acts of charity all month long. One component of the Christmas
Season’s Greetings!!!
celebration that has long been tradition and holds special meaning to celebrants is the Midnight Mass. Churches all around the world hold four different Christmas celebrations, including three masses and a Christmas vigil. The Midnight Mass is perhaps the most cherished. Mass, a Christian liturgical rite that often involves the sacrament of the Eucharist, may begin prior to midnight and include Biblical readings that focus on
the story of Christ’s birth depending on the church. At midnight on December 24, carols may be sung and the ringing of church bells to signify the birth of Christ as December 25 arrives. In Israel, a procession takes place from Jerusalem to Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. In the Catholic Pope’s home of Vatican City, the Pope himself heads the Midnight Mass and people in large numbers pray for peace among mankind. Many theologians say
We’re Àlled with warm wishes and lots of good cheer For all the kind people we’ve served this past year. Thanks, friends!
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Wishing our four-legged friends, all the creature comforts of a joyous and memorable holiday season Àlled with lots of good times and good memories. Season Greetings and sincere thanks for your kind support.
The Country Clipper Janet Moon and staff • 948-2091
HOPE
HAS IT ALL! YOUR HOLIDAY With best wishes to you and yours for the very best holiday season, ever!
T-ROY’S TRUCKING TAKE’N THE PAIN OUTTA HAUL’N YOUR GRAIN!
Troy, Kerry and Carter • 306-237-7671
T-ROY’S TRUCKING
from the Board of Directors and Staff at
Feudal Co-op Bulk Petroleum Cardlock Convenience Store Highway 14 • Perdue
237-4639 or 1-877-358-9677 All of us here are ho...ho...hoping your holiday delivers a bundle of fun! We really appreciate all the good times we’ve shared with you this past year.
Village of Perdue Mayor Dave Miller, Council, and staff
that the Midnight Mass evolved from individuals making pilgrimages to Israel and the actual birthplace of Christ. Because the Bible states that Jesus was born at night and in a manger, to fully immerse oneself in the story and the liturgical significance of the moment, a Midnight Mass seems the best place to achieve these goals. The darkness and the gentle hush that nighttime provides helps set the scene and enhance the spiritual component of Christmas. The Nativity of Jesus takes place in two Gospels of the Bible: the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of Matthew. The version of Luke goes much more deeply into the story of Mary’s virgin conception through the time of Christ’s birth in Bethlehem. Here is Christ’s birth according to the Gospel of Luke: In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that the whole world should be enrolled. This was the first enrollment, when Quirinius was governor of Syria. So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town. And
From all of us to all of you, Merry Christmas and many thanks for your continued support. Your friendship makes it all worthwhile!
To Our Valued Customers at the Holiday Season
Lynn and Chuck Strate and staff
237-4282
Extended Store Hours…
Dec. 17 & Dec 21 open till 9 p.m. Dec. 23 open 12 noon - 5 p.m.
Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you; you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ Later, the Gospel continues, “He was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.” Midnight Mass has become an important component in the celebration of Christmas for the faithful. While secular celebrations may focus on the arrival of Santa Claus at the midnight hour, religious celebrations often involve filling churches at midnight to spread the word of Christ’s arrival.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK -23
Merry Christmas
The history and traditions of Boxing Day Many countries celebrate Boxing Day on December 26. Those outside of these countries may be unaware as to the meaning behind the holiday and how its traditions originated. Boxing Day is celebrated by those in countries that were once part of the British empire, which includes Canada. As a federal holiday, post offices and banks are closed. Schools also are closed as part of winter vacations. Despite being a federal holiday, Boxing Day is not observed in the same way in all provinces and territories. Also, it is not an official holiday in Quebec. Depending on the area, stores may be open or closed. Some people use the opportunity to take part in post-Christmas sales or make returns. Many stores run Boxing Week sales the full week through New Year’s Day. Some shoppers have been known to camp outside of stores to take advantage of these price cuts, much in the way Americans might wait in the wee hours of the morning for Black Friday deals. The etymology of the name Boxing Day is unclear, but some historians surmise that it is tied to the European tradition of giving gifts to the needy and those in service positions, as was the case during the Middle Ages. In the United Kingdom, it also became tradition that the day after Christmas employers would gift their servants with boxes of food leftovers from the holidays or present monetary gifts. The servants were allowed to take the day off to spend it with their families after having worked Christmas. Other ideas tie the tradition to the Feast of Saint Stephen,
which also takes place on December 26. Metal boxes, into which people could put donations for the needy, were left outside of churches. Despite what the name may suggest, the sport of boxing has nothing to do with the holiday. However, with Canadians and others having the day off from work, they may be able to tune into a fight on television and establish a new tradition. There are other ways people can create their own Boxing Day traditions. Here are a few ideas. * Collect food or clothing donations from neighbors and deliver them to a shelter or soup kitchen. * Volunteer to help at a hospital, animal
shelter or school when it reopens. * Encourage children to invite their friends over and curl up with a good movie and some popcorn. * If you are a business owner, call employees and personally thank them for their time of service. * Have a fun, family game night. * Decorate the house with boxes of all shapes and sizes.
* Gather holiday gift boxes and prepare them
for the recycling bin. * Make a charitable
donation to your preferred organization.
We’re sowing our best wishes with the hope that they grow into joy and prosperity for the folks that we know!
www.louisdreyfus.ca
Management and staff Wilkie, SK. 306-843-3113
May your Christmas and the New Year be Ålled with health, happiness and prosperity.
Central Plains Co-operative Ltd. Branches in Rosetown, Eston and Landis
Board, Management and staff
882-2601
Signs of Christmas are everywhere. Bringing to mind all the kind people we’ve had the privilege to serve this year. And so we offer our best wishes to all the familiar faces that make the holiday season so special for us.
Happy Holidays from Rick fronand RickStaff & Staff BOXING DAY SPECIALS
ROSETOWN 882-4333
Wishing everyone a wonderful Holiday Season and all the Best in 2013 Thanks to all my customers for your support and I look forward to serving you in the New year!
Ron and Cheryl Amy Rosetown Mainline Motor Products 1-877-979-7999 948-5338 (home)
HOLIDAY HOURS
HOLIDAY DECEMBER 24, 24, HOURS Christmas Eve - closing at 8:00 p.m. Dec. 24th Closing at 8 p.m. DECEMBER 25, 25, Christmas Dec. 25th Closed CLOSED Dec. 26th Open 26, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. DECEMBER 26 , 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. Boxing Day Specials DECEMBER 31, 31, New Year’s Eve Dec. 27th - 6 Open - 10 p.m. a.m.7 a.m. - 8 p.m. Resume JANUARY 1st, 8Normal a.m. -Hours 8 p.m. JANUARY 2nd, regular hours, 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
24- THE INDEPENDENT, BIGGAR, SK
Merry Christmas
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2012
Some ways to create new holiday traditions Much of what makes the holiday season so special is the traditions that people hold dear. While families have traditions that stretch back decades, there is plenty of opportunity to embrace new means of celebration to breathe new life into Christmas, Chanukkah or the season’s other holidays. Chances are you’re already hanging stockings or going caroling this year. You can add some of these and modify as they fit for your family. 1. Feed the wildlife. During the cold days of
winter, birds and small animals that don’t hibernate may find it difficult to forage for food. By trimming an outdoor pine tree in edible snacks you’ll have a beautiful tree and one that benefits the wildlife as well. String peanuts and other nuts for the squirrels. Make little ornaments out of suet and string for the birds. Berries and corn can be enjoyed by all. Be sure to choose a tree that is far enough away from the home, so you don’t have too many scavengers hunting and pecking around the house.
2. Create a photo Advent calendar. Make your own Advent calendar that has small doors that open up to photos of different family members. Or use a collection of children’s pictures that showcase how they’ve changed as they’ve grown older. 3. “Adopt” a child for holiday gifts. Each year you can bring a smile to a child in need by purchasing a present for an underprivileged kid. Some post offices sponsor “Letters from Santa” events where participants can respond to one of the thousands
of letters mailed to The North Pole. Or work with a local charity that organizes events to bring gifts to children in hospitals or in foster care. 4. Holiday story countdown. Every night in December watch a movie or read a story that tells an uplifting holiday tale. Use this as a method of counting down until Christmas. On the night prior, reading “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” should suffice. 5. Remember someone who has passed on.The holiday
season is one made beautiful by lit candles and twinkling lights. Remember a loved one or a friend who has passed away by lighting a remembrance candle in his or her honor. It’s a way this person can still be part of the festivities. 6. Have a holiday sing-a-long. Sure it may be tradition to go around the neighborhood singing carols, but it’s just as fun indoors. Have a singing party where guests are given lyrics to popular tunes they can sing around the piano or karaoke machine. 7. Bring some joy to
a public servant. Police officers, firefighters, military personnel ... many of these workers do not get off for the holidays. There are a certain number of public servants who must remain on call in the event of an emergency. Treat these people to something enjoyable when they may be missing their own festivities. Cook or cater a meal for a fire house, deliver cookies to the police station or put together care packages for people living on a military base.
First Row:(left to right )Joe Friesen, Bill Hamilton, Evan Thompson, Jimmy Speir, Matt Zimmer, Clinton Kostiuk, John Mann, Devon McMillan, Kevin Schwanbeck. 2nd Row: (left to right) Austin Ireland, Brett Coben, Jordan Davidson, Kennedy Hayward, Heather Summach, Kaity Mireau, Bill Mann, Edna Gowen, Ron Amy, Don Markham, Shanny Hannay, Murray Simpson. 3rd Row: (left to right) Bryan Burt, John Morris, Jordan Thomas, Dana Gerow, Donna Coben, Tamara Frerichs, Savannah Taylor, Velvet Russel. Back Row: (left to right) Dwayne Robbie, Lyle Austin, Scott Murdoch, Shawn Emmons, Mike Moreside, Don Miller, Darren Bell, Blair Summach, Shawn Kachur, Tim Rysavy, Jamil Wells, Ryan Sieberer, Ellis Watson, Daniel Moar, Jason Ediger, Curtis Merri¿eld. Missing: Terry Davidson, Brian Gerow, Peter Muhlbach, Casey Potratz, Denis Rooke.
ROSETOWN MAINLINE t t