The Biggar Independent Volume 114 Issue 15

Goose B&B ... Canada Geese take a break south of Biggar, maybe enjoying the sunshine and spring weather. Spring is a welcome season, one of hope and renewal. Here is hoping you find the upcoming season a time for outdoor activity with family and friends! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

Winter’s cold is almost over as spring brings longer days and a warmer temperatures. Sloughs are melting and although not full, there is water from runoff. Snow is patchy but soon farmers will be on the field and outdoor activities will be a welcome escape from winter’s grasp. (Independent Photos by

Kevin Brautigam)

Sask. refers fed oil and gas cap to Economic Impact Assessment Tribunal

Monday, the Province referred the federal oil and gas emissions cap and federal “Methane 75” regulations to the Saskatchewan Economic Impact Assessment Tribunal (Tribunal) to analyze their anticipated, wide-ranging impacts on Saskatchewan’s economy.

In December, 2023, at COP28 in Dubai, federal Minister Steven Guilbeault announced a national cap-and-trade system for the upstream oil and gas sector, as well as “Methane 75,” which mandates the reduction of methane emissions by 75 per cent by 2030, along with fines and penalties.

“These measures, which constitute a pro-

duction cap by default, are duplicative and inefficient,” Justice Minister and Attorney General Bronwyn Eyre said. “They ignore local realities and diversity of production methods across the country. Their imposition, with no consultation, is another example of gross federal overreach into provincial jurisdiction and flies in the face of growing momentum against federal regulation of specific provincial industries by the courts. It is also our position that a capand-trade system does not fit under the federal criminal law power.”

Under the Saskatchewan First Act, findings by the independent Tribunal can be used as

evidence in court. Panel members will review the economic impact of implementing the regulations, including the anticipated impact on investment, production, and royalty tax revenues, costs required to comply with the new federal regulations, and overall economic impact.

“These policies are unnecessary, costly and create enormous uncertainty for business,” Energy and Resources Minister Jim Reiter said. “The unfortunate reality is that these policies will restrict and shut-in Canadian oil and gas production, increasing our reliance on imported energy products.”

Emissions from Saskatchewan’s upstream

Council minute highlights

The regular meeting of Biggar Town Council was held March 5 at 7:15 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Attending the meeting were Mayor Jim Rickwood, Councillors Dakota Ekman, Kevin McNicholls, Edward Young, and Ivan Young.

Council resolved that the minutes of the February 20, 2024 Regular Meeting of Council be accepted as presented.

Council resolved that the minutes of the February 26, 2024 Regular Meeting of the Biggar and District Recreation Board be accepted as presented and that the recommendations contained therein be approved by Council.

Council resolved that the RCMP Reports dated February 26 and March 4 be accepted as submit-

ted by RCMP Sgt. Derek Crozier.

Council resolved that the Chief Administrative Officer’s Report to March 5, 2024 be accepted as presented by the Chief Administrative Officer, Kristine Brown.

Council resolved that the Recreation Director’s Report for February 2024 be accepted as presented by the Recreation Director, Erin Poitras.

Council resolved that the Community Development Officer’s Report to March 5, 2024 be accepted as presented by the Community Development Officer, Cassidy Burton.

Council resolved that the Recreation Director be authorized to purchase a new Zamboni garage door from Creative Door in the

amount of $14,402.83 which includes applicable taxes and installation of same.

Council resolved that the General Accounts Paid in the amount of $172,660.90 and the General Accounts Payable in the amount of $42,436.97 be approved.

Council resolved that the following correspondence be accepted for Council’s information and filed: SUMA - 2024 AGM Notice. SUMAssure - 2024 Certificate Renewal. Biggar Fire Department - January 2024 Payroll.

Council resolved that the Glass Recycle Agreement submitted by SARCAN be approved.

• Meeting adjourned at 8:32 p.m.

oil and gas sector are already fully provincially regulated. Since 2019, the provincial energy sector has reduced greenhouse gas emissions from reported venting and flaring at oil facilities by 64 per cent below 2015 levels. This includes an overall 70 per cent reduction in methane emissions.

Preliminary estimates from the Ministry of Energy and Resources suggest that compliance for the oil and gas cap and Methane 75 will cost Saskatchewan’s energy sector between $7-9 billion dollars by 2030, which does not take into account the broader economic impact on jobs, investment and GDP.

Spring Sprung ... A barn in the distance and the still frozen waters of Springwater Lake are the first round in spring’s return. Hopefully, farmers get a good start to the 2024 season. Let’s hope it is also a safe one! (Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)

RCMP Report

by Sgt. Dereck Crozier, Biggar Detachment

Overcast and rain, hopefully for all those solar eclipse chasers the weather was more cooperative for them.

This past week there were 20 occurrences handle by the detachment members. Three tickets for traffic offences were issued and five warnings.

One collision with a deer on Highway 376 near Arelee was reported, and on Highway 14 near Perdue, a 21-yearold, driving a white 2023 Dodge Ram, overcorrected to miss the deer and took out the railway crossing and light pole instead. CP police are estimating damage around $50,000, but the good news is mandatory alcohol screening

showed that alcohol was not a factor in this collision.

A mother from Asquith call out the Calvary, looking for police and Child Family Services to chase down the father for allowing their 11-yearold son to sit in the front seat of his truck.

Mischief to a vehicle parked on Fourth Avenue in Biggar, while sometime over night damage was suffered to the windshield and a coffee thrown on the vehicle. Report of fraud by text message in Sonningdale, after an $1,800 e-transfer was send to a fraudster pretending to be someone else.

A 17-year-old and 20-year-old were arrested and charged for Mischief after drinking liquor at the outdoor rink and causing damage to the town property.

Complaints from motorists and pedal bike traffic of youngsters. It is that time of year again when our streets will be shared for various activities and it is the responsibility of everyone to be mindful of all users and watchful for those that are distracted with their busy lives or just having a momentary lapse of

CORRECTION:

judgement.

Vehicles and bikes sometimes don’t mix well and neither to bikes and pedestrians but somewhere in the middle we all have to meet. Sidewalks are for pedestrian only and not for faster moving bikes. However, there will be times when you might see a youngster out with their family on a sidewalk where it would not be practical and safe to have them on road.

I hope that parents are teaching their children proper etiquette and safety when sharing space with pedestrians.

If you are mature enough to be riding on your own, then a reminder that bikes are considered vehicular traffic and need to follow the rules of the road, such as stopping at intersections and observing the right of way with other users.

Let’s all safely enjoy our roads and walking paths and remind each other of safe biking practices and to all motorists, please remain alert when behind the wheel and reduce your speeds in town.

Take care out there!

Last week, The Independent announced the recent Home Lotto winners, a ladies group from Biggar. In it, we inadvertently left out the name of the ninth member of the group, Shirley Laycock. We apologize for the error!

P&H makes donation to Landis safety ... Parrish and Heimbecker have come up big for the Landis Fire Department, donating $5,000 for necessary fire truck supplies. Pictured are Annette Gillespie, P&H, left, Alex Scott, Landis Fire Department, centre, and Dana Lanigan, P&H. (Submitted Photo)

Canada wallows on the sidelines of LNG development

by Lee Harding, Research Fellow, Frontier Centre for Public Policy

When it comes to fossil fuels, the world wants what Canada’s got. The problem is that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau doesn’t care.

Fresh proof came with the recent visit of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the first Greek leader to come to Canada in more than 40 years.

According to Prime Minister Trudeau’s office, Mitsotakis was here to march in Montreal’s Greek Independence Day Parade, discuss “shared interests,” and cut the ribbon as Greece purchased Canadian-made firefighting planes.

However, during an interview with CTV, Mitsotakis said his country would “of course” like to start importing Canadian liquified natural gas (LNG).

“We are a big entry point for LNG, not just for the Greek market, but also for the Balkans, for Eastern Europe. Theoretically, we could even supply Ukraine,” said Mitsotakis.

“In principle, yes, we are very interested in obtaining LNG at competitive prices.”

Mitsotakis said Greece has built a major facility outside the city of Alexandroupolis to process incoming LNG tankers. He said Greece will pump LNG to the rest of Europe and needs more at home as the country

abandons coal.

Much of Europe’s energy has traditionally come from Russia or Middle Eastern autocracies. Over a decade ago, author Ezra Levant made the case for Canada’s “Ethical Oil” as a better alternative. Canada’s status as a democratic state that respects human rights and extracts oil with a minimal environmental footprint is as good as it gets. Mitsotakis, a Harvard-educated investment banker, understands that quite readily today. “Canada is a country [for] which we share so many values,” said Mitsotakis. “I think we see eye-to-eye on many of the challenges that we face.”

Still, there was no mention of energy exports in Trudeau’s public comments regarding Mitsotakis or official government communications about the visit.

Mitsotakis can take little consolation that his treatment is not unusual, as true as that may be. In the past 18 months, both Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz returned home without official assurances that Ottawa was eager to offer bulk quantities of Canadian LNG. Kishida came to Canada in January 2023, making no secret of his “high expectations” to reach an LNG export agreement with Canada.

Scholz came to Canada in August 2022, hoping to reach an LNG deal.

“Canada is our partner of choice,” Scholz said at the time.

Somehow, Trudeau said at a press conference with the German leader that there was no “business case” for LNG exports to Europe. Instead, he took the chancellor to an empty field in Newfoundland that was the chosen site for a future Canadian facility to export carbon-neutral hydrogen.

That will help Germany a little, but not nearly enough. The country turned to Qatar and signed a 15-year LNG export deal.

Canada is currently the world’s fifth-largest producer of natural gas. But, as is the case with oil, facilities to sell it overseas are very limited. Canada has no LNG export facilities currently operating. Any LNG exports to Europe must go through a U.S. export terminal.

While Kitimat, B.C. will open a major export facility in early 2025, plans to build an LNG pipeline to ports on the East Coast have fallen apart due to high costs.

On Monday, Alberta Energy Minister Brian Jean said “onerous” regulatory procedures were to blame.

“With massive natural gas reserves, Canada can no longer wait on the LNG sidelines, burdened by an onerous regulatory system. Our allies and trading part-

ners need us. We must have more LNG export facilities approved and built,” Jean said in a statement.

Jean is right. Canada has scuttled one opportunity after another during the Trudeau era, first by smothering pipeline development with onerous regulations. The Northern Gateway pipeline was banned, with the government citing environmental concerns off the coast of northern British Columbia. However, it’s worth noting that despite these concerns, 50 tankers passed through the same waters every day with exports from Alaska.

Other proposals, such as the Energy East pipeline, were held up in red tape until its proponents decided the project wasn’t worth it.

A 30,000-page application went to waste, as

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did the aspiration for Maritimes refineries to process Canadian products instead of those from the Middle East. The Trans Mountain pipeline was also mired in delays until the government purchased it, after which its progress continued at a painfully slow pace. Years behind schedule and six times over budget, costing $34 billion, the “long-delayed” pipeline is finally ready for crude deliveries.

Bill C-69, dubbed by former Alberta Premier Jason Kenney as the “No More Pipelines Act,” was declared

Carbon tax debate unsolvable

innovations we are seeing from Saskatchewan and Western Canada or giving credit for the accomplishments we are seeing.

According to the federal Liberal government, Saskatchewan is a carbon emissions laggard unwilling to even recognize its responsibility to reduce such emissions.

According to Premier Scott Moe and his Saskatchewan Party government, Ottawa has no interest in recognizing the carbon tax reduction

When two sides of a political debate are locked into such polaropposite arguments, you tend to hear a lot of cliches about “both sides having legitimate points”, that “two things can be true at the same time” or “the truth lying somewhere in the middle”. It’s not that these political cliches aren’t applicable. They probably are all true.

But they seem less relevant to the reality to the reality that both sides see the carbon tax/carbon emission fight has a holy war critical to their very existence. We are long past the time of reasonable debate or even reasonable conversation on either the

relative unfairness of the costs or the most costeffective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs).

Today, you either oppose the carbon tax or you don’t. A compromise seems impossible to achieve. The issue seems unresolvable.

Nevertheless, we need to keep examining an issue that’s more critical to our future wellbeing than it even is to our current economic well-being. (One realizes even that issue is bound to raise hackles.)

So let’s take a look at the recent jabs and reasoned positions of the combatants in this seemingly unsolvable debate.

Talking to reporters just prior to the Easter break and after his much-maligned appearance before a federal committee, Moe insisted “it’s a mistaken portrayal” for the feds to sug-

gest that this province is resisting GHG emission reduction.

“It’s mistaken portrayal,” Moe said, arguing there provincial regulatory environment for oil and potash is among the strictest in the world and the Saskatchewan message at the most recent climate change conference in Dubai where the province was “putting its best foot forward” and “telling the sustainable Saskatchewan story.” Moe said it’s “a lack of recognition” and a failure of the federal government to apply some of “the most innovative manufacturing in world”.

Unfortunately, Ottawa is not recognizing the carbon credits available through international carbon mitigation outcomes outlined in things like the Paris Accord so that Saskatchewan gets credit for the 1,000 air

drills it sells to India. “We should be proud of that investment,” the Premier said. “We should be proud of the carbon footprint we don’t have in agriculture, mining and industries creating wealth in this province.” Instead, the federal government emphasis is on a carbon tax that isn’t working, Moe argued. “I said at the committee: ‘Do you want a climate change plan or do you want action?’” Moe said. “If you want to reduce emissions globally, that is the only option.”

However, federal Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson argues that Moe is resisting action and isn’t even measuring carbon tax reduction anymore.

“This is the only province in the country that has no target - no target - for reducing emissions,” Wilkinson said

unconstitutional by the Supreme Court of Canada last fall. The development is welcome but cannot restore lost time.

Canada is also poorly positioned to seize another significant opportunity - the European demand for oil as it seeks to reduce its reliance on Russia.

The Canadian government appears to be more interested in achieving zero carbon emissions, even when sacrificing economic growth.

Too bad that makes zero sense.

in an interview. “That should be embarrassing for the government.

“Even (Alberta Premier) Danielle Smith has targets.”

Contrary to what Moe, other carbon tax critics and even some media reports suggest, data shows Canada’s emissions are falling and are expected to fall further to 36 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030 - most of which can be attributed to carbon pricing, the federal Minister said. “All the data shows it is working. All of the data shows it’s efficient and effective.”

“What Premier Moe is saying and what (federal Conservative Opposition Leader Pierre) Poilievere is saying, there is just zero factual basis. None, zero,” Wilkinson said. There also seems to be zero common ground here, which remains the biggest problem.

Notable Notes

Often I wonder exactly how much thinking goes into building an army, for many times it seems that there has been none at all! Yet again, one finds it taking care of a situation that appeared almost frustratingly impossible.

Sometimes, when we think of a thousand recruits joining the army, that they are transformed over a couple of months into a well

Education

disciplined group that always act together. To me, it isn’t that way at all!

Of course, of these thousand, a few are found medically unfit for service, and the rest are sent to what they call “Basic Training”. Tall guys, short guys, mean guys, mild guys, rich and poor, smart and not so smart, and often they haven’t got one common thought.

Its Filipino month!

by Delta Fay Cruickshank for the Biggar Museum and Gallery

This month we are honouring our neighbours who came from the Philippines. There will be a flag waving at the entrance to our town.

One L, two pp’s ... I have finally learned how to spell it!

Like in the past, our town again benefits from people determined to better their futures. Europeans, or those of Europe ancestry, were our first immigrants. Now, people are coming from Asia. I embrace the diversity. All the new and exciting cultures our town is now home to makes for a wonderful place to live.

We all know about the Filipino food, thanks to Flora and her food truck. Plus the Gallardo family with their market of interesting foods and services! Our town has only benefited by having people from the Philippines emigrating here!

Speaking of the Philippines, did you know that we are talking about 7,640 islands in the archipelago in the West Pacific. Like our country being colonized by the French and British, the islands were colonized in the 1540’s by the Spanish. That’s why they are called Philippines, after the then King of Spain, Philip 2.

After that it was wars and revolution and mil-

Council

lions dying by war, famine, and disease. So sad. I wept reading their history on Wikipedia, so much death and oppression.

The country had been under foreign rule for hundreds of years. Right up until the end of the Second World War, the archipelago was governed over by countries thousands and thousands of miles away.

Identity as an independent country has been difficult, so many languages, so many cultures. It reminds of reading about Africa’s history of finally being released from foreign rule. It’s a difficult transition. I hope for the sake of the children and the mothers of the children that the country will evolve into a place where the best interests of all get a chance to live in a peaceful embrace, a

kinder gentler world.

In the meantime, we here in Biggar get to benefit from those who make the difficult decisions to leave generations of family members behind and come to make a new live in the frozen north!

Really, they came from the tropical maritime climate, where the average yearly daily temperature is 26.6!

It’s hot and it’s humid. Oh my gosh, I would melt there! You must admire them coming here to minus-26.6 in a mild winter!

But, despite the absolute difference in language, food, climate, the people from the Philippines have made a positive mark on our town. We can only hope their children stay in town and continue to be a part of the future of our Bigger and Better Biggar!

We all know Cucina Ni Flora food truck, and those wonderful aromas wafting down Main Street during the spring and summer. (Photo for The Independent courtesy of Cucina Ni Flora)

By the time Basic is over, they have learned to march - a big deal! They also developed a common ambition.

“If I ever get that NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) behind a closed door somewhere, I’m gonna knock the stuffing out of him!”

Now that they’ve developed a common idea, I feel sorry for that NCO! I wouldn’t be a bit surprised, but he was a nice guy at home, but on parade square and in the huts, it was part of his responsibility to be hated. At least it seemed that way to me!

So, we went on to “Advanced” training, theoretically to transform these guys into the perfect force that we all envisioned. And after a few experiences, they ask you what part of the army you like the most and where you would like to serve.

Sometimes it doesn’t matter what you saythey put you where they want you! And the first thing you know, the fel-

low you joined up with is a mechanic while the guy in the next cot has opted for the Engineers or Artillery or the dozens of other branches that we never think of. And soon, you find yourself marching down the street with a whole bunch of guys from all over but all in the same outfit.

Of course, in every group are a few rebellious types that cause a bit of a problem. But here again, they are weeded out and funnelled into a position that appeals to them a little more.

While I was in the army, it appeared to me that no one was “minding the store”. But looking back on it now, I’m sure that some psychologist-type was directing things. Stuff like, “Put the easy-going types here and the mechanically-minded there, and send the ‘bad-boys’ to Blue Berry Hill (detention). Send the leaders here and the followers there.” It all seems to me now that everything

was under some kind of control!

And the more we did together, the better we liked it. This is called “Esprit de Corps” ... and it’s the same all over!

So eventually you find yourself slogging along some foreign road with a bunch of common thinking comrades, being passed now and then by convoys of tanks and trucks also filled with some of the same comrades that you “joinedup” with so long ago. But now you are the kind of smart looking group that would make a General smile, if that’s possible!

Of course, maybe I’ve got it all wrong, but that is the way I saw it!

Maybe that original thousand guys just happened to end up where they did! Much like a lot of people do now. But one doesn’t want to believe that.

Seeing there are no wars around that we are in, let’s concentrate on civilian education, eh?

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL

Rural Municipality of Grandview No. 349

Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll of the Rural Municipality of Grandview No. 349 for the year 2024 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the following days: Monday to Thursday, April 12th to May 13th, 2024 (excluding holidays)

A Bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of The Municipalities Act has been passed and the assessment notices have been sent as required.

Any person who wishes to discuss the notice of assessment or potential appeal may contact the Assessor at: Rural Municipality of Grandview No. 349 Box 39 Kelfield, SK S0K 2C0 or by calling 306-932-4911

Any person who wishes to appeal against his or her assessment is required to file his or her notice of appeal, accompanied by a $25.00 appeal fee with: Secretary of the Board of Revision for the R.M. of Grandview, Michael Ligtermoet 642 Agnew Street Prince Albert, SK S6V 2P1 Dated this 11th day of April, 2024

e Rural Municipality of Eagle Creek No. 376 Is accepting applications for the position seasonal mower operator. Seasonal maintenance operator duties may begin May 1, 2024.

e applicants must have a valid driver’s license. (1A preferred) and experience on a grader and track hoe is also an asset.

Seasonal maintenance work to include mowing, installing culverts, signage, repairs and other duties as required. Mechanical experience to perform general maintenance and equipment repair as required.

May

Eagle Creek No. 376 rm376eaglecreek@xplornet.ca

Bob Mason

Ask The Money Lady

Christine Ibbotson

Dear Money Lady Read-

ers:

I have been asked many times to reprint this column - so for those who missed it the first time around (three years ago) - here it is again, an adult lesson from a children’s book!

I recently went to a friend’s home and had the pleasure of reading a book to her 4-yearold granddaughter and I had forgotten how wise these children’s books are. Written by adults for children, but with a message in the story for all of us.

The book was called “Days with Frog and Toad,” written by Arnold Lobel. The story starts with Toad waking up one morning and complaining about his messy

house and how many jobs he had to do. He exclaims to Frog that he is going back to bed and will do it all tomorrow, saying “today I will take life easy.”

How many of us keep procrastinating about everything we do in our lives today. Not just household chores, but how about furthering our career, going back to school, asking for that raise or promotion; or what about just saving for your retirement and lowering your debt. Especially now, life can be tough in this economic environment. But the problem lies with putting things off more and more when the tomorrow you were waiting for has come and gone so many times.

You see, if you keep putting it off, then it’s never going to happen, and the only one you will have to blame is of course, yourself. If you don’t save for retirement, you will have no money to retire on. If you don’t work at paying off your debt and your mortgage, you will always have debt and the

banks and credit card companies will continue to make money off you. If you keep wishing and dreaming about being successful, but take no action or plan to do so, you will always have less than you think you deserve.

Of course, throughout the story, Toad realizes that he will have an enormous amount of work to do by procrastinating and putting everything off till tomorrow so he decides to do one job, then another, then another, until he has completed everything he would have been burdened with the next day.

“There,” said Toad. “Now I feel better. I am not in the dumps anymore.”

“Why?” asked Frog. “Because I have done all that work,” said Toad. “Now I can save tomorrow for something that I really want to do.”

“What is that?” asked Frog.

“Now, I can just take life easy” said Toad and he went back to bed.

What if you did this too? Take one job at

a time. You will never climb the mountain until you take the first step. Let’s look at an example, say balancing your budget to live completely on your take-home income.

Get a journal, log every purchase, and expense and find out where your money is going. Once that is done, create a monthly budget that you can live with and look for ways to lower expenses to pay off your debt. Better still, why not think of ways you can make more money to improve your finances. Should you get a different job. Could you downsize to a more “liveable” situation.

Once you begin, it becomes like a slowmoving train struggling to get out of the station. The more things you accomplish, the more you improve, the faster that train moves towards your goals and future financial freedom.

If you are finding things difficult, and plan on putting off the solution to fix it, again - seek professional advice. You can’t know every-

Chef Dez on Cooking From My Kitchen To Yours

There are many chapters in this book that cover all the subjects from appetizers through to desserts, and beyond. One of my regular viewers, who discovered me through my Zoom classes, wrote to me and I share this with you as a testament of my recipes:

I am excited to announce the release of my new cookbook: From My Kitchen To Yours, with over 130 recipes. I have been working on this book for nearly the past three years and I am so excited to offer you another bound edition of my recipes.

My Zoom Cooking Classes were pretty much the catalyst in the creation of this cookbook. Pretty much since the pandemic started, I went virtual with my cooking classes, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made. This switch allowed people from all over the world to tune in and find out what the Chef Dez experience was all about. Through the cooking adventures of these classes, many recipes were created and perfected.

Although now I am back to teaching in person again, I still offer up one Zoom Cooking Class per month to satisfy the people who are not located in my vicinity.

Thank you for your cooking classes and your recipe books. Best recipes we’ve ever tried. I find most recipes from cookbooks, magazines, Pinterest, et cetera are always lacking in flavour, or that “wow” factor. Every recipe I have tried from your classes, and recipe books, have been simply amazing! So full of flavour, and always have that “wow” factor. They are also easy to follow with no crazy ingredients, or measurements. I have been cooking for 30 years and have gone through many, many recipe books. Yours have blown me away. Thanks so much, and I look forward to learning more.

Karen F., Langley, B.C., Canada

Autographed “pre-order” copies are available to purchase through chefdez.com for an introductory price of only $17.95 (plus tax and shipping) for a limited time only, and shipping will com-

mence approximately May 13. Unsigned copies will also be offered through Amazon worldwide starting May 25.

If you live local to me, I also offer up two locations where we will be officially launching this book, and you have the option to pick up your pre-ordered copy there to save on shipping. All details are on my website.

With over 230 pages, these recipes are packed full of flavour, easy to follow, and are mostly made up of common ingredients you already have or can easily get.

Over the 22 years of my culinary career, I have helped literally thousands of people to rekindle their love for cooking and this latest cookbook may be my best collection of recipes yet.

The one question people always ask me about my books, is “which recipe is your favourite?”

And although that question is always tough to answer, in this book I would have to say my collection of chicken dishes that are in this book: Chicken Cacciatore, Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Marsala, Creamy Tuscan Chicken, and Kung Pao Chicken.

However, I have also have many favourite soup recipes in this book too, such as Creamy

thing. Talk to an accountant, financial planner or even a social worker.

If you are not planning and thinking about the future - how can you expect to have one?

Don’t let the worry about money or your “to-do list” have a toxic effect on the rest of your life. Believe you are worth more and pull away from other procrastinators.

The confidence and security of knowing you will be okay at retirement or should an unforeseen tragedy happen is invaluable. It provides you with the power

to deal with current life issues. You will be happier, more confident, and more prepared to be successful in all aspects of your life and career. And of course, then you can say what Toad said: “Now I can take life easy.”

Good luck and best wishes!

Tomato Basil, Broccoli Cheddar, Cream of Mushroom, and Brazilian Shrimp Soup made with coconut milk. Order your copy today. I know you will enjoy it. Send your food/cooking questions to dez@ chefdez.com or P.O. Box 2674, Abbotsford, B.C., V2T 6R4. Chef Dez is a Food Columnist, Culinary Travel Host and Cookbook Author. Visit him at chefdez.com

Written by Christine Ibbotson, author, finance writer, national radio host, and now on CTV Morning Live, and CTV News @6, syndicated across Canada. Send your money questions (answered free) through her website at askthemoneylady.ca 24042BS1

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Chef Dez

Agriculture

Calvin Daniels

by Calvin Daniels

Sometimes when you are reading a news story you still find yourself practically laughing out loud.

That was the case when reading an article at producer.com and seeing a quote which stated “if you are on TikTok or Instagram, it’s quite possible that you may have come across something that is negative or misleading.”

The statement is weirdly interesting for a number of reasons, all with at least some relevance to agriculture.

To start with this is understatement in the extreme. It doesn’t take long for anyone with

Social media myths hurting agriculture

a modicum of common sense to recognize social media is a quagmire of information, some offered by credible sources, much a blend of fact and fiction, and much of it pure fiction presented as fact to promote a particular point of view.

I recall from my days in school many, many years ago, a history/ social studies teacher reminding that when doing reports it was important to have multiple sources to support a position because not every book written - the primary source of information at that time - was 100 per cent factual.

Jump ahead several decades and while the laptop and cellphone has put masses of information at our disposal by the punching of some keys it is also far, far more difficult to determine the kernels of truth from the chaff of rhetoric and misinformation. For agriculture that is troubling.

It is too easy for false statements about things such as the safety of

food, or the sustainability of farm practices to catch public attention, and once something starts being shared across social media contradicting the falsehoods it becomes near impossible.

What people choose to eat, as an example, might well be influenced by misinformation.

Even more concerning is governments may create legislation impacting farmers and how they operate to appease their voters, who have lobbied for change because they have bought into one falsehood, or another, which has suggested what farmers do is wrong.

The question then becomes what can the industry as a whole, and producers individually do to tip the narrative back toward good science and fact?

That’s the dicey question because simply entering the conversation with factual information will only sway the few who are actively seeking multiple sources of information before

making an informed decision.

Many on social media are happily lemminglike following the crowd of the moment with a willingness to jump to any conclusion given

without considering the source of information, or the creditability of information given.

Somehow, we need to get people back to analytically thinking, to spend time investigat-

ing more broadly than ‘liking’ random posts on social media, and in the end basing our views on the best information we can find.

We’ve been working with Fred & Patsy at Spyder Autobody for the past 3 years, and will continue servicing the Biggar community with mobile SGI appraisals

HUNGRY!

Biggar Eastern Star is having a Soup and Bun Lunch

Friday April 12 from 11:30am - 1:30pm Biggar New Horizons

Biggar United Church BBQ, Garage & Bake Sale

907 Quebec St. Biggar

Friday, April - BBQ starts at 4:00

Friday, April - 5pm to 8pm

Saturday, April 2 - 9am to Noon.

Call the church at 948-2280 for pick up of garage sale items.

ANNUAL SPRING AGM

WEDNESDAY APRIL 24th, 2024 7:00p.m.

WESTWINDS MOTOR HOTEL

2024 UPDATES and INFORMATION for THE COMING SEASON

Everyone is Welcome

by Trudy and Dale Buxton

A fantastic day as we finish up our travels in Manitoba.

We didn’t have the time on this trip but if you travel about 18 kilometres south on Highway 167, you come to the resort village of Denare Beach.

Denare Beach sits on the eastern shore of Amisk Lake, once called Beaver Lake. Denare Beach takes the first two letters out of “Department of Natural Resources”.

The community has a population of around 800 people and has been able to maintain resort village status. Not far from Denare Beach is the Konuto

Lake mine site which is operated by the Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Company.

The whole history of why this community came into existence was that Tom Creighton discovered gold in the area around Amisk Lake which brought on a gold rush in the early 1900’s. Amisk is the Cree word for beaver.

Did you know that around Denare Beach is the Limestone Crevices. Formed after the last ice age when the glaciers had receded about 10,000 years ago, the limestone crevices are the remains of an ancient sea that once covered the area. Over time the coral reefs and lime mud

were compacted into limestone, leaving deep crevices in the land.

Well, we are fully fuelled up and ready for our next leg - a long 325 kilometre stretch to Smeaton. There is very little in the way of services so hopefully we get some good gas mileage!

Lying between Creighton and Smeaton, Highway 106, also known as the Hanson Lake Highway, was named after Olaf Hanson, a legendary prospector and trapper in the region.

The Hanson Lake Highway is the only paved highway in these parts and connects other roads leading to many communities in the northern regions. It also connects many recreational areas.

The scenery is not overly spectacular as most is trees with the odd glimpse of a lake. You have to watch out for the many varieties of wildlife that might be close to the road.

After travelling for a time, we stopped to take

a break. However the gas station I thought would be open was shrouded in plastic as they were doing some midsummer renovations. Looking at the gas gauge we continued, hoping we wouldn’t have to stop and walk.

With the red low fuel warning light on, we prayed for fuel. After travelling about 30 kilometres we luckily enough found a station about 40 kilometres north of Smeaton. This was a welcomed site for a pit stop.

We continued on through Smeaton and into Prince Albert, lunch and then back home to Biggar.

Overall, our trip was just short of 2 000 kilometres with many wonderful things seen. We hope to someday return back into Manitoba and explore more of what the province has to offer.

Until then we look forward to our next trip and more exploring, this time into the eastern part of Alberta.

Hanson Lake, Saskatchewan

Hanson Lake, Sask

New exhibit in the Gallery

by Delta Fay Cruickshank for the Biggar Museum and Gallery

There is a brandnew exhibition in the gallery, here until April 22. The show is called “Propagation”, and it is the art of Regina artist Madeleine Greenway.

The Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils, in partnership with the Biggar and District Arts Council and the Biggar Museum and Gallery are pleased to present this body of work by this talented Saskatchewan artist.

The artist is exploring the connections between plants, food, land, and people with intricate drawings, screen prints and linocuts.

Greenway’s work celebrates the matriarchal knowledge passed down to her and the joy and respite she finds in the garden.

“My aim is to generate longing for a more intimate relationship with food, to invite the audience to the garden as a source of joy and respite, and to share a simple message of gratitude and the difference that care can make,” said Greenway.

What is the most important thing each one of us do every day? We eat food. Don’t you think we should have a little more control over what we eat? Gardening unfortunately, is not often remembered as a place of joy, but a place of hard work and hours weeding whether we liked it or not. And that is sad. Putzing in a garden, observing the miracle of growth and then eating the delicious results or filling a vase with beauty. It should have never been considered a punishment.

As our cities grow, more

and more children will miss out on the joy and miracles of nature and fresh picked produce. I’ve been involved in food security issues for decades, and the fact that we can go to the store and get what we want 12 months of the year is a privilege many do not have. This exhibit celebrates the garden as the place that propagates seeds for more, or joy for many.

Viewing is free, all we ask is that you sign the register book. The gallery is open the same hours as the museum all week.

A new exhibit by Regina artist, Madeleine Greenway, will begin its run at the Biggar Museum and Gallery. “Propagation” is brought to Biggar by The Organization of Saskatchewan Arts Councils, in partnership with the Biggar and District Arts Council and the Biggar Museum and Gallery. (Submitted Photo)

Biggar Metis Local #53 hosted a

Biggar Bowl weekly scores

Monday Adult Mixed

Tuesday Night Mixed

Thursday Afternoon Seniors

YBC

Ladies High Single - Marilyn Miller 222. Ladies High Triple - Marilyn Miller 581. Mens High Single - Jason Raschke 193. Mens High Triple - Jason Raschke 513.

Ladies High Single - Melissa Raschke 260. Ladies High Triple - Melissa Raschke 565. Mens High Single - Michael Hebert 226. Mens High TripleJason Raschke 590.

Ladies High Single- Sue McGuire 182. Ladies High Triple - Ann De Bussac 489. Mens High Single - Gerry Besse 179. Mens High Triple - Larry Tavanitz 487.

Bowlasaurus - Benjamin Olson 89. Pee Wee Single - N/A; Double - N/A. Bantam Single - Peter Olson 177; Triple - Peter Olson

378. Junior SingleBentley McNaughton - 266; Triple - Bentley McNaughton - 611. Senior High Single - Hanna Keefe 192; High Triple - Hanna Keefe 503.

Neckbone eating contestestants prepare to eat - Pork neckbones provided by Biggar Metis Local #53 President Barry Falcon. (above) (Pictured right) President Barry Falcon(left) Second place winner Johnny Trotchie, First place winner Dereck Crozier, and Judge Jim Rickwood.

Lauri-ann Larochelle and crew prepared a delicious lunch and dinner for the gathering.

The Qu’Appelle Valley Dancers took over the floor to perform traditional Metis Jig, Squaredancing and Polka. The day ended with a performance from J.J. Lavalee (pictured right, photos submitted)

Bingo with the St. Gabriel School RAK group was a full house at the Biggar Local Metis Gathering hosted at the Biggar Community Hall on March 30.

Penton On Sports

Now that the 1,312game preliminaries are almost over, the 16 National Hockey League playoff teams get down to serious business. Last year’s Vegas-vs.-Florida final didn’t appear on many experts’ radars and the likelihood of more upsets is always real.

So who can win the Stanley Cup this year? All 16 qualifiers, of course, but realistically, some of the playoff teams would need a truckload of four-leaf clovers, a few rabbits’ feet or Mafiastyle bribery to win it all.

There are three levels of contenders: Those who can; those who might; those who can’t.

Run for Stanley Cup is wide open

Those who can (in no particular order): Boston Bruins didn’t miss a beat after the retirement of superstar centre Patrice Bergeron, and have been at the top, or close to it, all year. The President’s Cup jinx got to the B’s last year, so maybe they’ll play so-so down the stretch to avoid finishing first overall.

Florida Panthers: Neck-and-neck with Boston all season for first in the Eastern Conference, the Panthers are playoff-tested after last year’s run to the final.

N.Y. Rangers: Igor Shesterkin in goal and an offence led by Artemi Panarin provide the ingredients for a long run.

Carolina Hurricanes: The Canes have a solid defence with Brent Burns, Brett Pesce and Jaccob Slavin and picked up solid playoff performer Jake Guentzel in a trade, adding to the scoring prowess of Sebastian Aho, Seth Jarvis and Andrei Svechnikov.

Colorado Avalanche: Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar can win games by themselves and

make the Avs an alwaysdangerous team. Dallas Stars: Solid in goal (Jake Oettinger) and up front with eight 20-plus goal scorers, the Stars have been battling Winnipeg and Colorado for top spot in the Central Division all year.

Vancouver Canucks: Coach-of-the-year candidate Rick Tocchet has guided the Canucks to one of their most successful seasons ever. No reason to think it’s going to stop any time soon.

Edmonton Oilers: After a horrendous 5-12 start to the season, the McDavid-Draisaitl-led Oilers have compiled one of the best records in the entire league. Those who might:

Toronto Maple Leafs: The 1967-to-present day Cup drought probably won’t end this year, but goal-scoring machine Auston Matthews is in his prime, so there’s a chance.

Winnipeg Jets: Among the top teams all season, the Jets have Connor Hellebuyck, the best goalie in the league and the addition of Tyler Toffoli and Sean Monahan mesh

nicely with the Jets’ core of Scheifele, Connor, Ehlers and Morrissey.

Nashville Predators: Defenceman Roman Josi might be the best all-round player in the league and the Preds were red-hot down the stretch. Never ignore a team with a mountain of momentum.

Tampa Bay: Playoff experience can never be underestimated.

Those who won’t: Anyone battling it out down the stretch for a wildcard position - Detroit, Washington, Pittsburgh Philadelphia, Los Angeles, Las Vegas. (Keep in mind that this same pre-playoff column last year gave a no-chance outlook to Florida Panthers, who made it all the way to the final.)

• Retired NFL great J.J. Watt, after the league deemed the hip-drop tackle illegal: “Just fast forward to the belts with flags on them.”

• And comedy writer Alex Kaseberg on the same subject: “In addition to helmet-to-helmet and around the knees, it is now illegal for NFL players to make hipdrop tackles. At this rate

the only option for NFL tacklers is to give ball carriers a stern talking to.”

• Jack Finarelli, aka the sports curmudgeon, after discussing the Ohtani-interpreter gambling situation: “The surest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it in your pocket.”

• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “In Texas, former NFL QB, Vince Young, was knocked out cold in a bar fight. Young was hit so hard, when he came to he said he wanted to make a comeback with the Washington Commanders.”

• Super 70s Sports: “Tony Gwynn could’ve gone 0-for-1,199 at the end of his career and still retired as a .300 hitter. Think about that.”

• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe. com: “The Oakland As are reportedly talking to Sacramento about relocating there for at least three years. But wait, doesn’t Sacramento already have a minor league team?”

• Headline in The Beaverton, Canada’s parody website: “NHL player declared legally

Biggar Minor Hockey Awards

Another year is over, and Biggar Minor Hockey has recognized local players for their efforts over the 2023/24 season. While all players were

key to their teams, here is a list of the players recognized during the recent Minor Hockey Night at the Biggar Community Hall.

U7 Black (Donahue)

Most ImprovedBeau Danychuk. Most Sportsmanlike- Grayson Didyk. Most DedicatedRegan Silvernagle.

dead before trade deadline expects to be ready for playoffs.”

• Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel: “Step aside, Messi, Mahomes and LeBron, and make room for America’s biggest sports superstar - Caitlin Clark.”

• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “NBA star Russell Westbrook admitted to lying about his wife’s birthday at a restaurant to score some free cake. Typical of today’s overpaid athlete: getting their unjust desserts.”

• From theonion.com, on ‘Signs You May be Addicted to Sports Betting’: “Every sports gambler has heard horror stories about someone who, at their lowest point, watched an entire baseball game from beginning to end.”

• Another gambling addiction indicator, from theonion.com: “You Convinced The Gambling Addiction Hotline Operator To Put $20 On The Knicks.”

• Care to comment? E-mail brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca

U7 White (Zidkovich)

Most Improved - Houstyn Poletz. Most SportsmanlikeOdin Laturnus. Most Dedicated - Denten Zidkovich.

U9 1 (Argue)

Most Improved - Kiley Sagon. Most Team Spirit - Tate Argue. Most Dedicated - Weston Scott. Ernie Redlich Memorial Award - Liviya Redlich.

U9 2 (Craig) Most Improved - Logan Grasdal. Most Dedicated - Laken L’Hoir. Most Team Spirit - Nova Barber. Ernie Redlich Memorial award - Riley Donahue.

Bruce Penton

- together with -

Mar 21/Apr 20

There is more to any situation than the money factor, Aries. When a new opportunity comes your way, look beyond the payoff to see what the heart of the offer entails.

TAURUS –

LIBRA –

Sept 23/Oct 23

Libra, an issue that you were worrying about is unlikely to surface. Stay in the present instead of looking ahead to all of the things that might go wrong.

SCORPIO –

Oct 24/Nov 22

CAPRICORN –

Dec 22/Jan 20

You are not normally characterized as “impulsive,” Capricorn. However, this week you may surprise everyone. An opportunity to travel or another venture could drop in your lap.

AQUARIUS –

102 - 3rd

Apr 21/May 21

Look to your family members if you need inspiration on a new project, Taurus. Use loved ones as a sounding board for all of the ideas that are bouncing around.

GEMINI –

May 22/Jun 21

The willpower that you have been relying on lately is still going strong, Gemini. That is excellent and it’s having a profound effect on other areas of your life.

CANCER –

Jun 22/Jul 22

PHONE......306-951-0078 or 306-951-0098 SERVICES Naty/Michael…

Cancer, gossip is not something you usually delve into, but you may get roped into a conversation this week. Try not to give any weight to the rumors swirling around.

LEO –

Jul 23/Aug 23

Leo, you shouldn’t be boastful about your abilities, but try not to be too modest. Accept the credit you are given. Graciously embrace all of your good press.

VIRGO –

Aug 24/Sept 22

It may seem as if you are operating on autopilot, Scorpio. Days seem a carbon copy at this point. Do something to alter your routine.

SAGITTARIUS –

Nov 23/Dec 21

It’s best if you avoid crowds for the time being, Sagittarius. You will benefit from some quiet time that only comes with being alone or within small groups of close friends.

Jan 21/Feb 18

Aquarius, if you are not feeling challenged, you have to find activities that will get your brain moving again. Do whatever you can to spark some excitement.

PISCES –

Feb 19/Mar 20

The choices coming your way are quite varied, Pisces. It can be overwhelming, so do not make any rash decisions until you work through all of your options.

An interesting invitation might come your way, Virgo. It could open the door to a very busy social calendar if you accept and do some key networking.

This is what I worked up for the Business & Professional section in back of paper, 6 month commitment for $161.20 plus gst

Price… 2.5 inches = $201.50 plus gst per 6-month prepaid commitment. Please get back to me with changes/corrections by return email this morning. Thanks Urla (Answers

13. North American people

15. Ranches

18. Electroencephalograph

21. A type of compound

24. Avenue

26. High schoolers’ test

27. A type of meal

30. Gradually disappeared

32. Ancient Frankish law code

35. Popular pickup truck

37. Buzzing insect

38. Deal illegally

39. Lying in the same plane

42. Obstruct

43. Related

46. Challenge aggressively

47. Nocturnal hoofed animals

49. Bird’s nests

50. Forays

52. __ B. de Mille, filmmaker

54. Title of respect

55. One-time name of Vietnam

57. Self-immolation by fire ritual

59. Private school in New York

62. Political action committee

63. A way to fashion

66. Email reply

68. “The Great Lake State”

prescribed by a religion

5. Unnilhexium

6. Merchant

7. Playing the field

8. Folk singer DiFranco

9. Something to scratch

10. Mexican agave

11. Equal to one quintillion bytes

12. Session

The family of Eric Harold Downton are saddened to announce his passing on April 3, 2024.

Eric was the second oldest of eight children, born on August 30, 1954 to Masie and William Downton, in Lewispost, Newfoundland.

In 1961 the Downton Family moved to Micheals Harbour, a little fishing village where he spent the rest of his youth. He completed his drafting degree in Nova Scotia, in the early eighties.

He lived in and experienced 6 different provinces of Canada, residing in Biggar for the last 25 years. He was a quiet man, he wrote poems, short stories and drawing much folk art of Micheals Harbour and other places he has been. He was an avid reader, mostly history. He could never pass up a book sale and spent many hours at the library.

Eric was predeceased by his mother Masie, father William, brother Paul, sister Lynda Denise. He is survived by brothers Lloyd (Joanne), Gary, James, sisters Angie (Trevor) Nodwell, Nancy Jeanne.

Nephews, William (Shantell) and family, Jeff, Mathew (Rachel) and family, Adan (Jill) and family, Joshua, Justin, Curtis and Calvin Nieces, Tara (Jessie) and family, Trina Brian) and family, Laura (Tally), Zahrina (Elli), Tabatka and family.

He always enjoyed time with his family and will be lovingly missed.

Celebration of life, Saturday, April 20, 2024 at 2 pm at Westwinds Motel Hotel, Centennial Room.

St. Gabriel roman CatholiC ChurCh

109 - 7th Ave.W, Biggar Father Edward Gibney

Parish Phone: 306-948-3330

Saturday Mass.......7:00p.m.

Sunday Mass....... 11:00a.m.

our lady of fatima CatholiC ChurCh, Landis Sunday Mass.......9:00a.m.

Presbyterians, Anglicans and Lutherans

St.Pauls Anglican Redeemer Lutheran 205 4th Ave. E 319 7th Ave. E

APRIL 14, REDEEMER LUTHERAN

APRIL 28, REDEEMER LUTHERAN

Biggar associated gospel church

by Rev. Daphne Bender, PALs

What’s in a name?

Over the last three weeks, I can say that “connection” is in a name.

When the tragedy occurred in Neudorf, Saskatchewan, where a family of four, by the last name of Bender, were found deceased in their home, I received several inquiries from among my friends and acquaintances because Neudorf is where I grew up and still have some distant relatives living there.

Those who had called me were worried that the tragedy involved members of my extended family.

I was relieved to be able to tell those who called me that no one from my immediate relatives was affected. But I added, I was certainly concerned for the community of Neudorf and all the people I know who are living there.

Yes, the names of community, “Neudorf” and family “Bender” signified connection for me.

When the early Christian church was being formed, the apostle Peter encountered a lame man near the temple who was asking for alms. Peter healed the man saying, “in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk...

Stan Grondin

May 8, 1926April 14, 2001

“Gone, dear father; gone forever. How we miss your smiling face.

But you left us to remember

None on earth can take your place.

A happy home we once enjoyede, how sweet the memory still,

But death has left a loneliness

The world can never fill. … in loving memory

The Grondin Family

And the man’s feet and ankles were made strong ... he stood and began to walk” (Acts 3:6-8).

It was faith in the name of Jesus Christ that gave Peter the power to heal the man.

What’s in a name? Power and connection.

In this season of Easter, as we celebrate the Risen Christ, we are reminded that we are connected to Jesus because he rose from death declaring that his life has power over death.

To trust in the name of Jesus is to know that death has no hold on us either. When we call on the name of Jesus we are given strength that is not

our own. His strength is given to us that we may love as he loves, forgive as he forgives, and be made whole as he was made whole by rising on the first Easter morning.

May we fully and completely trust in the name of Jesus Christ, that we may rise to new life in the family of God.

You are cordially invited to join us for an afternoon tea and luncheon

Saturday April 27 from 12-4 pm to celebrate the 95th birthday of Mrs Emily Liska.

In Biggar at the New Horizons Hall 117 3rd Ave. No gifts please.

312 - 8th Ave.W. and corner of Quebec St., Biggar

Sunday Service 10:30 a.m.

All are welcome to come and join us

Biggar United ChUrCh

REGULAR SERVICES

SUNDAY 11:00 am

Pastor Dale Worrall

Inquires Call Church Office 306-948-2280 Leave Message

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH

SATURDAY SERVICES

BIBLE STUDY 10:00a.m.

CHURCH SERVICE 11:00a.m.

320 - 6th ave.east contact: 306-951-8445 3 abn www.amazingfacts.org

Rev. Daphne Bender Pastor’s cellular Phone: 1-306-621-9559 Office Phone: 306-948-3731 (Messages are forwarded to Pastor’s phone immediately) NEW

Biggar’s connection to the legendary Titanic

The anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic is April 15, 1912.

a grand metropolitan destination point that would be the rival of other major cities in Eastern Canada. In 1909 Hays, along with his family, took up residence in the town to personally supervise the construction of municipal projects, most notably building of an opera house as well as developing infrastructure like waterworks, sewers, electricity, fire, medical and police services.

Hays had a vision in Saskatchewan, first was to make Melville a big city and second was to also make Biggar into a big city.

Biggar has a very large connection to the sinking of the Titanic, not so much in a direct sense but who was on that ship that would potentially change the course of history for the at the time new, fledging town.

Attention: Janet

his family to Montreal. He held this position until he was appointed President of the Grand Trunk, including the Western Division.

Please proof and get back to me by return email.

Thanks, Urla

The name was Charles Melville Hays, the founder and namesake of Melville, Saskatchewan who perished along with 1,503 others in the sinking of the RMS Titanic.

Charles Melville Hays was born May 16, 1856, in Rock Island, Illinois. Hays moved to St. Louis, and at age 17 started working in St. Louis with the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad.

Hays began to work for Missouri Pacific as the secretary to the General Manager. Six years later, he became the General Manager of the Wabash Western Railway, and in 1895, GM of the Grand Trunk Railway, moving

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Hays was the driving force behind the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway. Considered one of the greatest business minds of the time, his greatest accomplishments were to complete a rail line west from Winnipeg and a rail line between Winnipeg and Moncton. He was also responsible for the construction and operation of the new Western rail line.

Hays was in England in 1912 to gather support and money for the new Western rail line. He and his family were returning to Canada on board the Titanic to attend the Grand Opening of the flagship Grand Trunk Pacific Railway hotel, the Chateau Laurier, in Ottawa on April 25, 1912.

Hays had vast ambitions for the Grand Trunk Pacific to challenge the Canadian Pacific Railway and become a competitive transcontinental railway network that stretched from Montreal to Vancouver with Melville being the halfway point terminal.

His vision was to develop Melville into

Hays had such hope for the future of Melville that he began actively courting major American and Canadian industrialists, including such notables as Thomas Edison, George Westinghouse and the J.I. Case Co., to set up factories in the town. He began construction of a direct rail link to Regina in anticipation of the area becoming a major manufacturing hub.

Unfortunately, it was not to be, as his vision was cut short when he fell victim to the grand tragedy that played out on the icy waters of the North Atlantic that fateful night the Titanic sank. After Hay’s death, without his dynamic drive and leadership, the plans for Melville and the rest of the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway failed to materialize. The company struggled to recover, restructuring in 1914 and eventually going into receivership with the government seizing Grand Trunk’s stock. The Grand Trunk Pacific Railway ceased to exist in 1919 when it was amalgamated with the Canadian Northern Railway to create the Crown Corporation, the Canadian National Railway.

So, what does this sad story have to do with Biggar?

Well, you see, Charles

The Grand Trunk Pacific Railroad came right through Biggar and onto Vancouver, Biggar was to become a very large centre and play a very important part in shaping the history of not only the railroad but shaping the history of Western Canada. Charles Hays had many meetings in Biggar about the construction and the operation of this new railway.

At the time, the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway had the only form of communication to the east in way of the Intercontinental Telegraph System which ran through the train station. The day of the Titanic disaster the only way to hear about it was over the wire.

When the news broke about the disaster, people in Biggar were all wondering about the whether Hays had made it out alive. Upon learning his fate, many wondered as to the fate of the railway now that the “Boss” was gone.

Charles Melville Hays’ remains were recovered from the disaster site shortly after the sinking and laid to rest in the Mount Royal Cemetery in Montreal. He was eulogized as one of the greatest builders in Canadian history, and to honour his memory, on April 25, 1912, all work on the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway system was stopped for five minutes across Canada and the United States.

There was a group of prominent people from Biggar that attended his service in Montreal.

Though Hays’ dream did not become a reality, its legacy is still evoked by the town through the name of its Junior ‘A’ hockey team, the Melville Millionaires.

Can you imagine if Mr. Hays had survived the Titanic, Biggar would most certainly been a different town or city.

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Hays at the train station in Biggar (Submitted Photos)

Charles Melville Hays

Provincial Historian Thom Cholowski

Provincial Historian