Blue Dream ... Former Lovers front-man, LJ Tyson and Kayanna Wirtz (main photo) hit the Majestic Theatre for the Biggar Arts Council’s fourth show of the year. Along with guitarist, Colin Klassen (inset picture) and drummer Cale Hretsina, the band played a dreamy pop style of music. (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
Biggar schools banded together this year for a combined BCS/St. Gabriel Junior Girls team, and they hosted their home tournament this past Saturday. Teams from Rosetown, Eston and Luseland hit the court for some great basketball action. The Blazers/Saints did pretty well, coming in third on the weekend with Luseland coming in first and Rosetown, second. For many players on the Biggar team, this is the first year of competitive ball and, remarkably, they have improved dramatically. Well done, ladies! (Independent Photos by Kevin Brautigam)
by Cst. Chad Mehl, Biggar Detachment
Between January 20 to January 26, 2025, Biggar RCMP received 16 calls of service, some of which related with inclement weather that hit Saskatchewan roads this week.
Traffic Services was in the area and issued nine ticket tickets, mostly consisting of speeding offences.
On January 21, there was a report of a vehicle’s windows believed to be shot out by BBs at a residence on Sixth Avenue West in Biggar. Surveillance footage obtained in the investigation is being analyzed to try and assess a positive identity of the suspect. There was a report of an erratic blue Ford F150 passing unsafely on Highway 14, however the vehicle was unable to be located by police. A black cow was reported loose near Perdue on Highway 14, but was gone on arrival. The detachment also received a report of a minor fender bender between two vehicles. Further traffic complaints included someone passing two semis requiring the complainant to go into the ditch to avoid a headon collision and a silver
Biggar RCMP report
Jeep swerving all over the road.
On January 22, there was a non-suspicious fire that occurred at a private residence in the RM of Eagle Creek. The fire was nearly completely put out by the complainant and Eagle Creek Fire Department attended to make sure the rest of the fire was extinguished. No injuries were reported and there was relatively minor damage to the residence.
The blowing snow storm on January 24 resulted in a couple of calls of service with one vehicle getting stuck in a snow bank in the ditch and the other stopped on the side of the road, being unable to see where they were going. The callers were eventually able to make it safely home. A suspicious blue Ford Ford truck was also reported in someone’s driveway in the RM of Biggar.
Sometime during the evening of January 25 to 26, the glass to an outdoor sign was broken at the recreation complex in Perdue. If anyone has information on any of the vandalism reported this past week, please contact the Biggar RCMP or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 1-800222-8477.
Winter Fest ready for Feb. 8
by Kaitlynn Nordal
Grab your coats, mitts, and toques. Winter Fest is back for the third year
bringing people together during the cold months.
“The goal was to create a family-friendly event that would help celebrate Metis culture as well as foster a sense of community,” said Shandi Lefsrud one of the event’s organizers.
This year the daytime activities are all family friendly but due to some last-minute changes the organization committee had to make the evening adults only.
During the day there will be events outside and inside.
Outside there will be dog sledding, sleigh rides, and people can warm up by the fire while enjoying bison smokies and bannock. Inside there will be a Metis-focused reading corner, a beading workshop, and dot art for kids.
Throughout the day there will be photo opportunities with S&K Photography.
The evening will be catered by Biggar Bites followed by a show featuring The Gong Show Band who play a variety of classic rock and country music.
The money raised will go towards plans to expand the north diamond, install new scoreboards, and purchase additional equipment to support the growing numbers.
“By supporting these improvements, we are
investing in opportunities for the youth in our community,” said Lefsrud.
“Supporting initiatives like minor ball directly benefits youth,” added Lefsrud. “We are helping to be part of ensuring a brighter future for them and our community.”
Those at Winterfest also wanted to support Biggar Minor Ball after the loss of coach Shay Dorosh.
“We also wanted to support Biggar Minor Ball as part of this fundraiser because last year we tragically lost one of our long-time coaches, Shay Dorosh, in an accident,” said Lefsrud. “Shay was a dedicated member of Biggar Minor Ball, and this effort is also a way to honour his memory and his contributions to the program.”
Seventy per cent of the proceeds go to Biggar Minor Ball with the other 30 per cent going to cover expenses for Winter Fest that exceeds funding provided by grants.
“This helps ensure the event can be executed successfully without compromising quality or impact,” explained Lefsrud.
The third annual Winter Fest hosted by Ruthilda Metis Local No. 105 will take place February 8 at 422 Main Street with family events from 12-4 p.m. with the adult events starting at 5 p.m.
in a row. Winterfest started in 2022 as a community initiative aimed and
And that’s the regular season ... Jonathan Redlick wheels, looking for an opportunity versus the visiting Wilkie Outlaws, Sunday afternoon at the Jubilee. The final home game of the season, the Nats fell 6-3.
(Independent Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Haynes Incorporated ... Biggar Nationals Keaton, left, and Dylan Haynes, right, along with sister, Kolby, take in the Skate With The Nats with the future of Biggar hockey, Sunday at the Jubilee. Kids and anyone who could strap a pair of blades on could join the Senior Nats after their final tilt of the regular SWHL season.
(Photo for The Independent courtesy of Lisa Haynes)
Those at Winter Fest wanted to support Biggar Minor Ball with this year’s Winter Fest after the loss of coach Shay Dorosh. (Photo for The Independent courtesy S&K Photography)
Canada’s interprovincial trade barriers make
Trump’s
51st state jab hit home
by Sylvain Charlebois, Troy Media
Donald Trump’s suggestion that Canada should become America’s 51st state is absurd.
Yet the absurdity is precisely what makes it so provocative, drawing attention to a fundamental weakness in Canada’s economic framework.
Trump’s remarks highlight an uncomfortable truth: when it comes to trade, Canada is often more fragmented than unified. In many cases, doing business with the United States is easier than trading across provincial borders.
This dysfunction is not new. Interprovincial trade inefficiencies have been a persistent issue, with provinces prioritizing the U.S. market because it offers fewer barriers, greater economic returns, and simpler processes.
Trump’s comments, while inflammatory, underscore Canada’s over-reliance on the U.S. and the lack of co-operation within its own borders.
Alberta’s energy sector illustrates this disjointed approach.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has repeatedly voiced frustration over
Eastern Canada’s refusal to support cross-country pipelines, leaving Alberta heavily reliant on the U.S. for exporting its resources. Alberta’s energy is essential to Canada’s economy, yet provinces in the East resist pipeline projects that could strengthen the national energy market. This lack of cooperation is especially galling when Alberta’s equalization payments are considered. Alberta contributes billions of dollars annually to support social programs in provinces like Ontario and Quebec, yet these same provinces are quick to oppose policies that would benefit Alberta’s economy. This imbalance highlights a clear hypocrisy in Canada’s economic relationships. The agricultural sector is similarly plagued by inefficiencies. Supply management policies governing dairy, poultry, and eggs create unnecessary barriers, with each province operating its own quotas. For instance, a dairy farmer in Quebec faces significant regulatory hurdles just to sell milk to processors in Ontario. In British Columbia, chicken costs 25 to 30
per cent more than in other provinces, while food prices in northern communities are even higher, driven by logistical barriers and fragmented policies. Even in less regulated sectors like wine, progress is slow. Alberta and British Columbia recently reached an agreement to ease interprovincial wine trade, but Ontario and Quebec continue to resist. These inefficiencies hurt consumers and producers alike, reducing competitiveness and driving up costs.
Small businesses and farmers face additional challenges. A butcher in Alberta operating in a provincially inspected facility cannot sell beef to Saskatchewan, even if there is demand. Farmers near provincial borders deal with varying regulations on pesticides, fertilizers, and equipment, creating logistical headaches that increase costs and reduce productivity. Inconsistent rules around food labelling, packaging, and transportation further complicate matters. A fruit producer in British Columbia, for example, must adjust packaging to meet Ontario’s specific requirements.
These unnecessary costs undermine Canada’s ability to compete, even within its own borders.
Even well-meaning local food initiatives contribute to the problem. Schools in Ontario and Quebec that prioritize purchasing locally grown apples make it harder for British Columbia growers to access those markets. While the goal is to support local producers, the result is a more fragmented national market.
The consequences of these fragmented policies are far-reaching. Canada’s internal trade barriers weaken its competitiveness and leave provinces overly
Prime Minister’s resignation offers Canada
by David Leis, President and CEO Frontier Centre
for Public Policy
The resignation of Canada’s prime minister marks the end of an era - a chapter defined by high expectations, significant challenges, and unresolved national policy issues.
For nearly a decade, the federal government promised sunny ways but left Canadians grappling with concerns over affordability, unity, and leadership. Now, as the governing Liberal Party searches for its next leader, Canadians are left wondering: What comes next?
The federal government under the outgoing prime minister presented a vision of progress and inclusivity but often
fell short in addressing pressing issues. Housing affordability remains a crisis, grocery prices are punishing, and policies such as the carbon tax have added to the financial burden for many Canadians. While efforts to address climate change are essential, they have often been perceived as disconnected from the immediate struggles of ordinary citizens. For many, the resignation signals an opportunity to refocus on these critical policy issues with fresh leadership. Governance itself has faced challenges. Parliament has been prorogued, creating a sense of inertia during a time when decisive action is needed. Canada is navigating economic
uncertainty, with experts warning of a potential recession, and tensions with the U.S. over trade and tariffs add to the strain. The federal government’s perceived inability to act decisively has left the country feeling adrift during a time of mounting global and domestic pressures.
As the Liberal Party looks for its next leader, questions about the future of governance loom large. Potential leadership candidates bring different strengths, but Canadians will be watching closely for someone who can articulate a bold vision for the future. Whether it’s Chrystia Freeland, Mark Carney, or another contender, the new leader must demonstrate a commitment to
addressing affordability, restoring public trust, and uniting a divided nation.
Canada’s regional divisions are a significant challenge that no leader can ignore. Policies like Bill C-69 and the carbon tax have heightened frustrations in Alberta and Saskatchewan, while long-standing grievances over perceived federal neglect persist. Ontario and Quebec, traditionally strongholds for the Liberal Party, have shown signs of shifting political dynamics. These regional tensions are just one piece of the larger puzzle. Canada must also grapple with national and global challenges that demand immediate attention.
Broader challenges extend beyond regional divides. The rising cost
INDEPENDENT
reliant on the U.S. for economic growth. During trade disputes with the U.S., Eastern provinces have historically been quick to sacrifice others - most notably Alberta - to protect their own interests. This pattern reinforces a lack of national unity and demonstrates the risks of Canada’s over-reliance on external markets.
Trump’s rhetoric about tariffs and trade, while provocative, highlights the vulnerabilities in Canada’s economic framework. If Canada is to assert itself as a strong and competitive economy, it must start by addressing its internal trade barriers.
of living, particularly housing and groceries, continues to weigh heavily on Canadians.
The energy transition requires careful planning to balance environmental responsibilities with economic realities. On the international stage, Canada must restore its reputation as a reliable partner and leader in addressing global issues.
Affordability, governance, and national unity are at the forefront of Canada’s challenges.
Addressing these policy issues will require strong leadership and a renewed focus on collaboration and equity.
The resignation of the prime minister offers Canada a chance to reset.
The next government must take bold action to rebuild
Eliminating provincial quotas, harmonizing regulations, and creating a unified market are essential steps toward strengthening the national economy.
Trump’s 51st state comment should serve as a wake-up call for Canadians. It exposes how fractured policies are undermining national unity and economic potential. If Canada wants to reduce its reliance on the U.S. and become a more competitive marketplace, it must do better. The path forward requires tearing down the walls that divide provinces and building a truly unified economy.
public trust, address the affordability crisis, and restore Canada’s global standing. Canadians deserve leadership that prioritizes competence, transparency, and unity.
This moment is a call to action for Canadians to engage, demand accountability, and ensure that future leaders reflect the values and priorities of the nation.
The opportunity for a new direction is here, but it requires more than hope - it requires a shared commitment to building a better future.
The next chapter of Canada’s history depends on rejecting complacency and embracing a renewed focus on collaboration and progress. Canada deserves nothing less.
I don’t think that I can remember when crossword puzzles weren’t an old family standby!
Our rural-type family life back in the 1920s and ‘30s with very little radio (batteries only lasted so long) and certainly no TV or paved roads, resorted to quite a bit of reading. And of course puzzles, mainly crosswords.
Mother had been a schoolteacher before she and Dad were married, and probably did want to be involved in this puzzle bit, but keeping the family clean and fed was far more important to her than any game. So, after working for hours outside on a cold winter day, Dad would come in for a hot cup of tea ... and a crossword!
There is an old saying, “A farmer works from sun to sun, but a woman’s work is never done!
by
Delta Fay Cruickshank for the Biggar Museum and Gallery
Is cherry your favourite pie?
It was the favourite of Queen Elizabeth I as well. She reigned in England from 1558–1603, and that is how far back the history of the pie goes ... well, the pie that had a top and bottom crust.
The Egyptians, and Greeks made pie as well way before Elizabeth was savouring them in England. But, they had only one crust made with ground grains and filled with honey, nuts or meat.
By the time the Greeks got hold of the idea, fat was being added to the ground grains to make something like pastry. The Romans were the first to use top and bottom crusts, but the crusts were not intended to be eaten, sort of like the pasties from Cornwall. The pastry held in a hearty filling of meat and potatoes and veggies, the pastry twisted on the edges to hold it all in. The twisted pastry was not meant to be eaten, this is what the dirty hands of the coal miners of Cornwall held
That saying used to have some meaning back then. We’ve got Women’s Lib now. I don’t know what the score is!
Like mentioned, Dad would pick up the weekly paper, turn to the puzzle page and struggle with the clues. If he was stuck and needed an answer, “... then down is a seven letter word meaning so and so ... ‘PE’ something, something, ‘O’ something, something!” Mother would have the answer right away!
It seems to me that now if one doesn’t know who Mrs. Smith’s partner was on such and such TV show back a few years, they’re kinda dumb!
Apparently names aren’t allowed in a Scrabble game, and maybe this was the reason that, for the last few lonely years, Dad more or less forsook crosswords for a solitary game of Scrabble. Being a cross between dominoes and crosswords, they’re a bit alike anyway!
I used to call and see Dad now and then when he still lived alone on 10th Street, and although he always made sure that you felt welcome, a fellow could hardly ignore the half filled Scrabble board on his table and know how it had helped him spend a lot of lonesome hours!
One always knew that after someone left, Dad
would sit down at it again, trying this word and that, trying to forget some things and trying to remember others, yet after all the years feeling that he was creating something ... even words! One of his sons is still at it!
Down at Bill’s one time, during a howling mad blizzard, we sat down at the Scrabble board and tried to figure some words to make a big score. I don’t think we broke any counting records, but we did come up with a big word: “Zygophyllaceous”. I can’t even find that word in the old dictionary on my desk, but it was in the big one that they had! If I remember right, it means “a likeness to some body part or process.” Ich vice nicht! A guy named Waldemar taught me that one! Sorry Willie!
Because it is a 15-letter word - and in Scrabble a player only has seven tiles - we had to mess around while from the centre, up until we had the words “go”, “lace” and “us” across the top of the board. Then we filled in the blank spaces to make the world “Zygophyllaceous” right across the top row covering two triple word scores.
After adding the bonus for having used all seven of the tiles, it made quite a score ... Z=10, et cetera!
Pie, a short history
on to. There are all kinds of stories and legends about them.
The term pie became popular during the medieval era (after the Romans left Britain, 500–1500). Pies were filled with meat and spiced with currants, dates or pepper. And the pastry was meant to be eaten.
By the time Elizabeth I was in reign (16th century), spices and sugar were becoming available and more fruit found themselves the filling between top and bottom crusts.
According to Google, by the 19th century pie became a staple on North American tables. There have even been cabinets built especially for pies, called pie safes. Cabinets with screen doors to keep the flies away. A slice of pie could fill up the edges of very hungry belly.
There was a restaurant here in Biggar who sold house baked pies, and a piece of pie was a quarter of a pie! Stopping after a movie, or an afternoon visit with a friend often involved pie and coffee in many restaurants over the ages here in Biggar.
Scrabble
We had become so absorbed in our wordmaking that we almost forgot the storm outside and felt that in the comfort of that nice warm house with nice friendly people, we had accomplished a really social thing!
Well, maybe a bit educational, too, for we had learned a new word! Mentioning new words reminds me that I used to have the odd Scrabble game with one of our retire aunts, and whereas Yours Truly’s vocabulary was mostly made up of common, ordinary words, she played by the book! And it wasn’t just an ordinary book, either, with “Webster”, “Cole” or “revised” printed on the cover, but a funny little volume called a “Scrabble dictionary”, wherein it stated that she could use words - and she did - like “zwis”, “xloid”, “zyme” and “zori”.
Goodness knows what other words there were in there. These were all on the last page! Talk about being embarrassed! I don’t remember whether she had a higher score than mine or not (who cares!) but whenever she brought out that little book, I always felt defeated before we even started! Lots of people become addicted to lots of stuff: coffee and Scrabble are two of the things. But over a
Is pie becoming a thing of the past? Fewer people seem to be baking pies, is it because they aren’t “healthy”, with all the fat, carbs and sugar? But let’s not allow the smell of fresh baked pie leave our grandchildren’s senses - the taste of an apple pie filled with spices and sugar and oozing fruit! How many of us can remember past images of a pie cooling on a windowsill, tempting a young person?
A popular pie from the prairie kitchens is Flapper pie - graham wafer crust,
custard filling, and meringue top ... yummy! Not too many dears making them now. They became popular on the Prairies during the ‘20s, that era when women dared to cut their hair, and raise their hemlines, and dance and smoke! Shocking! These women were known as Flappers. This pie is still popular amongst many in town. I sure hope we can find someone to bake them for us this year, or cherry, or apple or lemon meringue or rum raisin.
cup of coffee at the local cafe, if someone starts using some of those farout words, Yours Truly becomes very suspicious! Ho-hum! That’s common enough! As I’m getting a little guilty of
prorogation with my Post Meridiem siesta, maybe I’d better perorate this little horology until some future interregnum! Until then, Adieu, eh? That ought to be good for a few points!
Lease
• Lease Term: Flexible
• Closing Date: February 21, 2025
For more information, please contact the office at 306-843-2342 or administrator@rmofreford.com
Don’t miss this chance to secure this prime piece of
Bob Mason Notable Notes
Christine Ibbotson
Ask The Money Lady
Dear Money Lady
Readers,
I recently chatted with a senior who introduced me to a new program he’s involved in, and I wanted to share this with you:
CLIP - Complete Lifestyle Intervention Programme. Modelled on the platform of health and wellness the CLIP group helps seniors navigate their retirement years in a more health conscious manner to provide a better understanding of the five pillars of lifestyle medicine. These are: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and social connections. We must remember that lifestyle in retirement isn’t all about how much money you have. Of course, money is important and having enough when you retire reduces this uncertainty. But how much is
enough?
If you have a home, have money in the bank and can live comfortably, why are we still so unhappy as we age?
I believe it is our mood, confidence and sense of self-worth that have a lot to do with it. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), increased social isolation, prolonged illness and disabilities, and the death of friends, spouses and siblings, all tend to be the number one factors that seniors contribute to unhappiness.
Life changes have always been inevitable, but they should never be something that contributes to your demise. A health
DEADLINE
MONDAY 5 P.M.
Village of Perdue
Andrea Ball Returning Officer
conscious lifestyle can indeed help you to live longer, reverse chronic diseases and provide you with a better standard of living day-to-day. As you age, the main reason for seeking the CLIP would be to become not just physically stronger but also mentally stronger so you could be happier; easily able to better cope with change, and of course, be more content with your life.
According to the NIH, people actually tend to age the same. Studies show that we all apparently have a similar biological aging process between men and women.
However, the NIH have recently hypothesized
by Frank Cox
In a town where the sun never seemed to set and the shadows danced with the devil himself, there stood a house, a relic of a time long past. The old timers whispered tales of witches, ghosts, and curses that had befallen those who dared to trespass on its hallowed ground.
Now there’s ol’ Slim, a lanky fella with a heart as soft as a kitten’s paw, and about as smart as a sack of hair. This here’s a fellow who, if you asked him to find two and two, would probably come up with five, and be mighty proud of it.
One fine day, Slim, on a fool’s errand for some old goat’s lost goat, found himself at the very edge of the road leading onto the haunted property.
The next concert in the popular Biggar and District Arts Council performance series will feature Rumour Mill, February 8.
Led by duo Anna Katarina and Aline Deanna, the friends create inclusive music that resonates globally. Songwriters, producers, multi-instrumenatlists and performers, the pair push genre and social norms, showcasing a sound similar to Brandi Carlile and Sheryl Crow. The show is dynamic and engaging, rotating lead vocals, three-part harmonies and varied instrumentation blending traditional fiddle and mandolin with electric guitar and keyboard. This
that those people in Western cultures tend to have specific accelerated periods of growth throughout our lives. The greatest bursts coming around ages 34, 60 and 78.
Most of us view aging as a gradual, linear process. However, it is possible to reverse this process or at least slow it down a little with the five pillars of CLIP. This is something not just seniors should be doing, but all of us - so that we may enjoy every day as a gift.
Let me leave you with this thought: Think of each day as a new start, a new day that you can choose who you want to be. Remember, you didn’t
happen to be where you are today just by chance. You put yourself right where you are today. You decided who to care for, what to say and what to do. Every decision you make in your life is an opportunity. Only you can make the change to live better. Good luck and best wishes!
Written by Christine Ibbotson, author, finance writer, syndicated national radio host, and now on BNN Bloomberg News, and CTV News. Send your money questions (answered free) through her website at info@askthemoneylady. ca
No Trespassing
The sign was as plain as day, its faded letters reading: “Trespassers will be toad.”
Now you gotta understand, Slim is the type who’d ignore any red lights flashing, sirens wailing, or old ma’s warnings about the hot stove.
“Huh,” Slim spit on the ground. “Ain’t nobody around an’ they can’t even spell.”
So he sauntered on, the dusty ground crunching beneath his boots.
As he got closer to the house, the air grew thick with a chill that made his bones ache. Suddenly, a gust of wind knocked his hat off, sending it spiralling into the darkness. Slim cursed, and without a second thought, he leaped after it, landing headfirst into a puddle of who-knowswhat.
The next thing he knew, he felt the sting of being turned into a toad. Slim, now hopping along, looked around at the strange, eerie land. The sun was setting, casting long, ghastly shadows that seemed to wriggle
and writhe like snakes.
As he hopped along, Slim blinked his big bulbous eyes.
“Well, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle,” he said, his croaking voice a stark contrast to his former self. “Looks like I got what I deserved for not listening to that sign.” Slim spent the night hopping around the haunted property, feeling every bit as out of place as a bear in a beehive. By morning, he had come to a decision. No matter how much he’d like to blame the witch, he knew he couldn’t. After all, the sign did say that trespassers would be toad.
And so, Slim made his way back to town, determined never to ignore a warning sign again.
Every now and then, on a quiet night, you can hear the faint sound of a croak echoing through the streets. It’s probably just the wind but some folks say it’s Slim, hopping along, reminding folks to always heed the warnings, lest they end up as toads themselves.
will be a mix of humour, meaningful lyrics and a true connection. Rumour Mill is at the Majestic Theatre for the fifth show in the Biggar and District Arts Council
concert season this Saturday, February 8, show time at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale from Ross Holt at de Moissac Jewellers or from ticketpro.ca
Rumour Mill at Majestic Feb. 8
Frank Cox
Humble Opinion
Kim Gartner, MLA
Kindersley - Biggar Constituency Unit #5 1001 Main Street
Kindersley, SK S0L 1S0
Phone: 1-306-463-4446
Fax: 1-306-463-4449
Toll Free: 1-833-463-4446
kgartnermla@outlook.com
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
The Saskatchewan Traveller ... Nova Scotia Edition by Trudy and Dale Buxton
After a brief stop in Bridgetown we head up the valley, Annapolis Valley.
There are two ways of doing this - you can take Highway 101, which bypasses most of the small communities in the Annapolis Valley but will get you to the destination a lot quicker, or in our case we take Highway 1 which is much slower but you get to see some great countryside and go through many of the communities that have shaped this province since the 1600’s.
way back in 1680.
8:30am - 12:00pm 1:00pm - 4:30pm
The first we come to is the community of Paradise, which was originally named Paradis Terrestre or Earthly Paradise by the French
The community itself never had a population larger than 400 people but remains today with a scattered population in the area. There are three places that still remain as historic buildings - the Caleb House built in 1824, the Paradise School built in 1894, and the Baptist Church - which is still being used - constructed in 1857.
One business of note is a small take-out business that operates during the summer: Pearle’s Take Out. This has been a mainstay in the community for 40 years, and the food is outstanding along with the ice cream treats that are available.
Continuing we come to the community of Lawrencetown, which was named after Charles Lawrence, a Nova Scotia governor. Charles Lawrence offered up some land grants to some English Loyalists which was not very popular with the French and Mi’kmaq peoples who were living in the area.
The First Nations people scalped some of
the British settlers along with a couple of British soldiers. Fighting broke out between the French Mi’kmaq militias and the British. Eventually, after many years of fighting, the English had finally established the community.
Lawrencetown is home to the Annapolis Valley Exhibition, held annually since 1927. Even though Lawrencetown isn’t the biggest of communities it has a big heart and the larger communities around Lawrencetown continue to support it.
Lawrencetown was also a top-five finalist in the CBC Hockeyville back in 2010.
Next up is the town of Middleton, named in 1854 after a community meeting where they recognized that they were in the middle between Halifax and Yarmouth. Today, the slogan of the town remains “Heart of the Valley” because of its central location.
Once populated by the French and Mi’kmaq people’s, they were ousted by the English and New England Loyalists, who were granted land
along the river to make up a community.
The population of today is around 1,900 people with much of the economy centering around forestry, farming, manufacturing and some mining. In recent years a lot of the economy has been tied to tourism and the Air Force base, CFB Greenwood in nearby Kings County.
Middleton is home to a community college campus that has a variety of courses available to students in the valley. It is also home to a very rare water clock. A water clock was developed to replace the sundial back in early days. There are only about 20 water clocks worldwide and only three in North America, one of which is on display in Middleton.
One other treasure in Middleton, and a historic property, is the Holy Trinity Church built in 1791. It remains a consecrated church under the Anglican Diocese of Nova Scotia, and is still being used.
Stay tuned next week as we continue up the valley in Nova Scotia.
Middleton Mural, Nova Scotia
Middleton Town Sign, Nova Scotia
Bill Cey Memorial Award winner chosen
by Phil Heilman
Joe Cey, chairperson for the committee, along with local brothers, announced that Biggar Nationals Captain, Derek Argue has been named the recipient of the award.
Given out to the hardest working local player, an attribute adored by Bill and echoed by his family, was established in 2023 and will be an annual award for the Sask West Hockey League until 2033. Previous winners were Mitch Wall of the Edam 3 Stars and Rick Cey of the Wilkie Outlaws.
The following excerpt is from Derek’s nomination paper:
“Biggar is nominating Derek Argue for the Bill Cey memorial award. He
is our captain, practice coach, fundraising organizer, board member and the heart and soul of the Biggar Nationals. Without Derek there would be no Biggar Nationals. Derek is highly respected throughout the community and beyond. He has been pivotal in helping restore and to develop our minor sports programs in Biggar. He has the respect of every player and offers his time unselfishly to help with personal issues or improving their game. He leads by example and work ethic for his teammates to model after, rarely missing a game. He also organizes practices, runs the group chat room, lines up transportation, and
still volunteers his time generously throughout the community. He is a member of the local rec board, coaches our high school football team, coaches a U9 hockey team and runs our slow pitch ball tournament in the summer. Derek is positive and fair to everyone and rarely complains or points fault. He is a true ambassador for the Sask West Hockey League and is well known by many of the players from other teams. Biggar is lucky to have such a dedicated individual as Derek Argue. It is indeed an honour to work with him and he truly deserves recognition as he is a class act.”
Congratulations, Derek!
January 3 Stars of the Month
by Phil Heilman
Each month, the Sask West Hockey League (SWHL) aims to highlight outstanding performances by players in the league, whether they are the usual high scorers or the unsung heroes.
Third Star: Connor Neave; Hafford Hawks. Connor went on a heater this month, being one of a few spark plugs for the Hawks in their trek to first place. In five games,
he amassed 11 points (6-5).
Second Star: Taryn Kotchorek; Edam 3 Stars. Taryn and his teammates had a tough January schedule, but he shone very bright. He had a 4-1-1 record, with a 2.17 GAA and a sparkling .940 Save percentage. Big wins against Wilkie, Macklin and a shootout loss to Kindersley secured them home ice advantage.
First Star: Brandon Lesko; Hafford Hawks.
Despite missing a couple games this month, Lesko lit it up, scoring 11 points (6-5) in just three games in the month. He was a big part in the Hawks 6-0 record to propel them to first.
Honourable Mentions: Jeremy Boyer, Hafford Hawks. Rick Cey, Wilkie Outlaws. Brett Novak, Biggar Nationals. Jaxon Georget, Kindersley Sr Klippers.
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Senior National Brett Novak took an Honourable Mention for his performance in the month of January, all part of the Sask West Hockey League January Stars of the Month. (Independent File Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
A big honour for Derek Argue as the Sask West Hockey League awarded the Senior National Captain the prestigious Bill Cey Memorial Award. (Independent File Photo by Kevin Brautigam)
Penton on sports
After a couple of surprising upsets in the preliminary rounds, including the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions falling in the first round, the Super Bowl matchup for this Sunday in New Orleans is a sports fan’s dream.
Kansas City Chiefs will be going for a record third consecutive Super Bowl title against NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles, who have won 15 of their last 17 games, including their impressive 55-23 thrashing of the upstart Washington Commanders and their phenomenal rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels.
KC and their muchballyhooed quarterback
Patrick Mahomes are slight favourites, but it would surprise no one outside of Missouri if Philadelphia prevailed. KC had a 15-2 regular-season record, which probably would have been 16-1 had they not rested many of their top players in the season’s final game, but their victories
Chiefs aim for record third straight Super Bowl title
were underwhelming, to say the least. Coach Andy Reid’s team was 11-0 in one-score games, and they squeaked out another one in the AFC championship game against Buffalo Bills, 32-29. It was Kansas City’s fourth consecutive playoff victory over the Bills, who haven’t been to a Super Bowl since losing their fourth straight in 1994.
Mahomes is a master scrambler and leans on the running skills of Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt and a talented group of receivers, including tight end Travis Kelce, who is the most famous Chief of all due to his relationship with megastar entertainer Taylor Swift.
But the real reason the Chiefs win so many close games is because they have one of the best defences in the league.
Defensive tackle Chris Jones, a three-time firstteam all-pro, terrorizes opposing quarterbacks and defensive co-ordinator Steve Spagnuolo seems to know exactly when to blitz and when to fall back. Philadelphia, meanwhile, is probably the most balanced team in the NFL, with a potent offence led by running back Saquon Barkley and receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Barkley ran roughshod against the Commanders with 118 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts,
reportedly suffering from a banged-up knee, scored three touchdowns himself. On defence, the Eagles have been especially strong, giving up the fewest points of any NFC team during the regular season.
The Eagles were hanging on for dear life against Los Angeles Rams in the divisional playoff game, up six points with a minute to go and facing a Rams’ team that had a third-and-two on Philly’s 13-yard line.
One more Matt Stafford to Cooper Kupp TD pass would have killed the Eagles’ hopes. But Jalen Carter of the Eagles put a swim move on Rams’ centre Beaux Limmer and sacked Stafford at the 22-yard line. On fourth down, Carter’s pressure on Stafford led to an incompletion and a Philly win.
The win over Washington gives Philadelphia its third Super Bowl appearance in the past eight years. They defeated New England 41-33 in 2018 and lost to the Chiefs 38-35 in 2023. It’s safe to say that 2023 loss gives the Eagles more than just a little incentive to bring their A game to New Orleans on Sunday.
• A cheap shot from RJ Currie: “Shortly before retiring from the NHL, the Sedins visited kids at B.C. Children’s Hospital and played air hockey. And they kept playing - right until the puck flew into a corner.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Unlike a good neighbour, State Farm won’t be there. The insurance company decides that maybe, just maybe, spending millions on a Super Bowl ad wasn’t a good look for them after cancelling all those homeowners’ policies in California.”
• A. Worthtappen, on Bluesky: “Should’ve known the Detroit Lions were in trouble when people started calling them ‘America’s team.’ Have you seen America?”
• Kyle Porter of Normal Sport: “Things that have stopped Scottie Scheffler over the last 12 months: Blade putter, Officer Gillis, homemade ravioli. (Scheffler needed surgery
after cutting his hand making ravioli over Christmas.)”
• Baseball writer Mark Bowman of Atlanta: “Should the Falcons call the Dodgers to see if they are interested in Kirk Cousins?”
• Comedy guy Torben Rolfsen of Vancouver: “I love watching Wild games on TV. They do the announcements in both English and Minnesotan.”
• Rolfsen again: “Mark Davis of the Las Vegas Raiders fired his general manager. I thought if he was going to fire anyone, it would be his hairstylist.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “Controversy has hit curling with several toptier teams uniting against
Biggar Bowling Weekly Scores
Monday Adult Mixed
Ladies
Ladies
Ladies
certain foam heads being allowed for use by World Curling. It’s not a doom and broom scenario, but certainly calls for sweeping changes.”
• Headline at fark.com: “The Yankees spend $218 million to get Fried. That’s one hell of a party”
• Another one from fark. com : “Caitlin Clark’s popularity soars; NBA drafts plan to introduce mandatory cornfield backgrounds.”
• fark.com headline: “Ohtani expecting his first child, announces their allowance to be deferred to 2045.”
• Care to comment? E mail brucepenton2003@yahoo. ca
Wee Single - Ashton Kramer
-
Fernets 722. YBC
152. Bantam Single - Nash Wheaton 161; Triple - Declan Westgard-Mclay 335. Junior Single - Xander Hebert 197; Triple - Bentley McNaughton 495. Senior High SingleTegan Mcleod 207; High Triple - Tegan Mcleod 508.
Bruce Penton
Business & Professional …
Business & Professional …
ARIES –
Mar 21/Apr 20
Express yourself with great confidence this week, Aries. You feel like you are in control and well organized. This is a recipe for success regarding the things you need to accomplish.
TAURUS –
Apr 21/May 21
Taurus, you have a clear mind this week to put plans in place. But you might need some inspiration to get started. Avoid procrastinating.
GEMINI –
May 22/Jun 21
There are many tasks that lie ahead this week, Gemini,. It will be essential that you stay focused. One of the areas to consider is changing personal health for the better.
CANCER –
Jun 22/Jul 22
Cancer, you may find you’re an asset and sought-after among friends and coworkers. Use social situations to your advantage to network even more
LEO –
Jul 23/Aug 23
Clear up some space at home so you can work more easily, Leo. Too much clutter in your home or work area can be a distraction. Disorganization can make tasks harder.
VIRGO –
Aug 24/Sept 22
Practice being smooth and professional in your manner, Virgo. This will be the best way to get good results at work. Others may be impressed by how you handle yourself under pressure.
LIBRA –
Sept 23/Oct 23
Libra, you might be very popular with superiors at work this week. Use this to your advantage to seek out a raise. Ask to head an important project.
SCORPIO –
Oct 24/Nov 22
Scorpio, you can do anything you set your mind to. Share your ideas with others and determine which concepts have merit. If nothing comes up, go back to the drawing board.
SAGITTARIUS –
Nov 23/Dec 21
Others admire your ability to be a good friend, Sagittarius. This week you will showcase your compassion and humility in myriad ways. It might garner you extra attention.
36. One point south of due east
Assist in a crime
Greek mythological personification of Earth 39. A major division of geological time
CAPRICORN –
Dec 22/Jan 20
AQUARIUS –
Jan 21/Feb 18
PISCES –
Feb 19/Mar 20
Capricorn, happy news is coming your way this week. Share the good fortune with others in your life, either a spouse or a sibling. These people can use some sunshine as well.
Aquarius, if at first you don’t succeed, you may need to change your approach to things. Enlist the help of others to help turn your ideas into results.
Develop a better strategy for saving money, Pisces. You need some extra funds to pay for larger expenses, and clipping coupons alone might not be the answer.
THANK YOU
Dear Friends & Neighbours;
My name is Ivan Young, but some might know me as the “Tree Cutter”.
I would like to thank everyone who gave me work over the past 20 years, it has been enjoyable for me.
I am writing to let you know that I will not be taking on any more “new” work this year or in the future.
I have a couple of jobs I have committed to finish in the Spring and that will be all. It is time to give my body a rest. Thank You All !
Come out and support our team
1/2 & 1/2
Next Home Game
Play-O s
Saturday February 1st @8:00pm vs: Kindersley Klippers
by Pastor Doug Motz, Biggar Chapel of Hope
The New Year of 2025 is well upon us.
So, the question is: What are you aiming to do differently in 2025 that will change your trajectory from what things were like for you in 2024?
Most of us are looking forward to seeing a change in government; we’ve all seen changes taking place in our weather patterns; and as we look on the global scene, we’ve all witnessed changes taking place that might be very alarming to us, causing us to be filled with overwhelming fear!
For those of us who make it a daily practice to read the Bible, we’ve seen many prophesies being fulfilled, and there are still more yet to be fulfilled. The Bible clearly states that much of what we’re witnessing globally are events that need to happen prior to Christ’s Second Coming.
To spark your curiosity, here are some passages from the Bible you might want to read on your own time to get a bit of an understanding of what I’ve just been saying. (Ezekial 36-38; Daniel 9; Matthew 24:1-51; Mark 13:1-36; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11; 2 Timothy 3:1-9; 2 Peter 3:1-13; Revelation 5-19).
When you come to read 2 Peter 3:8 and 9, we discover the Apostle Peter stating in v.8, that first of all, God’s timetable is much different than ours. From God’s vantage point the Second Coming of Christ is much sooner than what humanity might think!
I’d like us to now note v.9. What this verse implies is the fact that God might be delaying His Second Coming because He might be waiting patiently for you, my friend, whoever you are, to allow God through Christ to bring a 180-degree life transforming change in you! The sin of Adam and Eve has kept us from being in a right relationship with God.
That’s why God sent Jesus to this earth in the first place!
He was nailed to a rugged Roman cross where He shed His blood and died, finishing the work of atonement for sin once for all. There is no covering for man’s sin condition except the blood of Jesus. He died and rose again to provide all who come to Him by grace through faith in Christ alone so that you and I might be reborn spiritually and be reconciled to God through Christ.
Without being reborn of the Holy Spirit, no one will enter that eternal life in heaven!
St. Gabriel roman CatholiC ChurCh 109 - 7th Ave.W, Biggar Father Edward Gibney Parish Phone: 306-948-3330
Saturday Mass.......7:00p.m. Sunday Mass....... 11:00a.m. our lady of fatima CatholiC ChurCh, Landis Sunday Mass.......9:00a.m.
Presbyterians, Anglicans and Lutherans
St.Pauls Anglican Redeemer Lutheran 205 4th Ave. E 319 7th Ave. E
FEBRUARY 9 10:30am Regular Worship (St.Pauls) FEBRUARY 23 10:30am Regular Worship (St.Pauls) Rev. Daphne Bender Pastor’s cellular Phone: 1-306-621-9559 Office Phone: 306-948-3731 (Messages are forwarded to Pastor’s phone immediately)
Biggar associated gospel church 312 - 8th Ave.W. and corner of Quebec St., Biggar
All are welcome to come and join us Biggar United ChUrCh
SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH
My friend, God will accept you no matter how sinful you might think you are. Remember, unrepentant sin does have eternal consequences - hell!
There isn’t a more important change you can make in your life in 2025 than to yield your life to God through Christ! Call me if you’d like to know more: Doug @ (306) 658-3338.
NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH
...In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope...1Pe 1:3 You are Invited Sunday Tea and Coffee -10:15am Worship - 10:30am NEW HORIZONS 117 3rd Ave. W, Biggar For more info - Philip Watson - 250-487-8476
You are welcome to CHAPEL of HOPE Meeting at the Centennial Room at the Westwinds Motor Hotel Sundays at 10:30am Pastor Doug Motz Coffee & Refreshments provided
What is real?
critical.
The issue is how we determine what is ‘real’ in our world. It starts with what we see every day.
You can have cellphones where the camera feature can add and delete aspects of a photo seen on a whim. The resulting image is at that point a thing of fiction, no longer representing what was actually before the camera lens when the photo was taken.
We read of course about how artificial intelligence has crept fully into the work animation.
We see long dead actors appearing near seamlessly in film. Words to a story can come as easily from a computer program as if from the human mind.
So what is real? Even social media has walked away from caring.
Facebook was fine blocking Canadian media posts rather than paying a fee for that content - a Canadian perspective on the news of the day lost,
and then months later stopping its checking of facts completely.
Anything you see on social media is at least suspect these days as to its accuracy.
The election of Donald Trump - a notable stretcher of truth and teller of tales and fantasies has only muddied the waters of truth further.
And then what is real in terms of our food?
Take for example meat which one online dictionary defines as “the flesh of an animal, typically a mammal or bird, as food (the flesh of domestic fowls is sometimes distinguished as poultry).”
But how often is a concoction of grain proteins, flavouring, colouring agents and other ingredients mixed up and sold essentially as ‘meat’. The finer print might note it is a meat substitute but the marketing is assuredly as meat in one’s diet.
And what of ‘meat’ grown in a lab? Is it real?
Fake? Or something in between we have yet to fully define.
Then a recent producer. com story begins with, “the level of fake honey on store shelves has reached a boiling point.”
The story goes on to note “it’s so bad that the International Federation of Beekeepers’ Associations will not hand out awards for the best honey at its 2025 meeting in Denmark.
“The associations cannot ensure that all honey in the competition is genuine, so judging and prizes for the best honey will not happen.”
The fake honey is produced with sugar syrup or other technology in a lab.
Another story on the same site is focused precision fermentation, a process where something like milk could be created in a vat. As if milkgenerally defined as “an opaque white fluid rich in fat and protein, secreted by female mammals for the nourishment of their young” – isn’t muddy enough in terms of a marketplace with milk somehow miraculously coming from almonds and oats these day.
Wading through everything we see, read, eat - well that we live day-to-day - is becoming harder to define in terms of truths and fakes to the point we must be increasingly diligent to know which is which.
