Two Hills Regional Chronicle - February 2023

Since the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces one year ago, about 21,600 Ukrainians have come to Alberta seeking support. With more expected to arrive in the coming months, the government is enabling access to meet the demand for programs and providing new fund-

ing for settlement and language services to help Ukrainian newcomers settle in Alberta.

If Budget 2023 is passed, Alberta’s Ministry of Trade, Immigration and Multiculturalism would provide $7 million in new funding over three years for language and settlement

services. Additionally, the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services would provide $20.3 million for housing and financial supports, ensuring they are made available to Ukrainian evacuees.

“The Alberta government is steadfast in supporting Ukrainians com-

ing to Canada to avoid Russia’s war machine. Our Alberta government will continue to find ways to support Ukrainians coming to Alberta as long as this war continues.” Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, parliamentary secretary for Ukrainian Refugee Settlement. (continued on page 3.)

Rose Nickiforuk honored for outstanding volunteerism

by Sonny Rajoo

Ithas been said that "Service to others is the rent you pay for the room that is waiting for you in heaven." In the case of Rose Nickiforuk that room has changed to a mansion.

Nickiforuk was recently honored for serving forty years as a volunteer for the Two Hills Health Centre Ladies Auxillary.

Nickiforuk, 91, was born in 1931, the daughter of Mike and Dora Pluta, and has spent most of her adult life volunteering for such noble organizations as the Ladies Auxillary and Ukrainian Orthodox Church.

Married to Nick Nickiforuk, the couple had two sons and three daughters, two of whom have passed away. The family grew up in Two Hills. Nick passed away seven years ago and Rose moved into Eventide Homes for the first few years.

Throughout her forty years volunteering for the Ladies Auxillary, Nickiforuk worked to purchase many items for use by the hospitals residents to enhance the quality of life for both Acute Care and Long Term Care residents.

While Nick was a truck driver, being away from home quite often, Rose raised the family while working on the farm and being in-

volved in the community.

In an interview with Provincial Health Ministers this writer pointed out much of the equipment in the hospital was purchased by our prestigious volunteers of the Ladies Auxillary; the noble members of the Walk/Run community with community support.

The Two Hills Regional Chronicle is constantly amazed at how volunteers in the Two Hills area continue to step up to help make this community a better place. For all that you do and so much more, a simple thank you is hardly enough but it comes straight from the heart.

Alberta’s government is providing expanded funding up to $27.3 million to help Ukrainian evacuees access settlement, language, housing and financial supports.

The team that will be part of the broader spectrum of those assisting Ukrainians who wish to be evacuated from war-torn Ukraine. More than eight million Ukrainians have fled their country and about 21,600 have arrived in Alberta, with more expected to come.

Century Farm Presentation

A very special birthday

Honorable Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA for Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville, was pleased to present the Lapaschuk family with the Century Farm and Ranch award. The Laspaschuk family farm is in the Two Hills region and was originally purchased in 1921 by Nicholai Lapaschuk.

The Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award is a provincial recognition of farm families who have been actively farming and continue to own the same parcel of land for 100 years or more.

Congratulations to Ed & Sylvia Lapaschuk and Family on receiving this award!

Photo taken by: The Fort Sask-Vegreville Constituency Office.

Rose Olynyk of Two Hills celebrated her 98th birthday on February 10, 2023. She is pictured above with her son, Gerald Olynyk and her daughter Wendy Darda.

Regional Update from MLA Jackie Homeniuk

community needs.

Thisweek, I visited the Fort Saskatchewan Food Bank and met with Executive Director Kassandra Gartner. The support food banks provide is invaluable in our province, and it was a great experience to visit their facility and see first-hand the essential work they do to make sure Albertans never go hungry. Because of the ongoing affordability crisis, the need for the assistance food banks provide has grown. To help support these indispensable institutions, Alberta’s government has committed to donating $10 million to our province’s food banks over the next two years, and we have increased the charitable tax credit for all donations under $200 to 75% in total. It is an honour and privilege to represent the Albertans who volunteer their time and resources to ensure organizations like these continue to provide the crucial services our

I had the pleasure of meeting with Tanya Shewchuk, the Program Manager for Careers Under Construction – Fort Saskatchewan. CUC is an organization dedicated to helping Albertans find new jobs and begin new careers. They provide a multitude of services, from resume development to career workshops and courses. Funded by the Government of Alberta, CUC’s services are free and incredibly helpful for those who are seeking to begin a new professional chapter in their lives. If you would like to learn more about the services they offer visit their website https:// careersunderconstruction.ca/ or contact them by phone at 780-9920250.

We are also taking action to build economic development capacity and inspire innovation and growth in rural communities. We are providing $2.1 million in capacity building grants. The grants will advance regional and targeted initiatives that will lead to sustainable, rural economic development and diversification. Grant recipients will turn this strategy into action by supporting businesses and municipalities with resources to enhance economic development opportunities in rural Alberta.

On Friday February 24th, marks

the one-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This aggression violates the principles of global stability and basic morality. As Chair of the Advisory Council on Alberta-Ukraine Relations, I have worked to ensure Alberta stands alongside Ukraine in its war against Putin’s Russia. As a province with a substantial Ukrainian Canadian community, of which I am a part, it is Alberta’s duty to support our friends in Ukraine. Canada has been one of Ukraine’s strongest material supporters in their struggle against Russia, and we have also stood out in our willingness to settle refugees who are fleeing Russia’s indiscriminate attacks. As a member of the Premier’s task force to support Ukrainian Newcomers, I helped to ensure Ukrainian refugees were settled and welcomed in our province. Alberta will continue its unwavering support for Ukraine as they fight for freedom and their nation’s future.

Please contact my constituency office at fortsaskatchewan. vegreville@assembly.ab.ca if you have any questions or concerns.

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, MLA Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville Parliamentary Secretary for Ukrainian Refugee Settlement in Alberta

(continued from page 1.)

Settlement and language supports

Budget 2023 would provide a total of $7 million over three years for continuous settlement and language supports.

This funding would help settlement agencies and immigrant-serving organizations meet increased service demand and would ensure that Ukrainian evacuees have the language supports and settlement services necessary for their successful transition into Alberta communities. The funding would build upon existing English language learning opportunities and supports for successful employment and economic transition.

Alberta’s government will continue to work with immigrant-serving and community organizations to identify the supports needed.

“The Ukrainian community and settlement agencies have told us that there is a critical need for funding to help evacuees when they arrive in Alberta. As a dedicated supporter of the Ukrainian people, the Alberta government would provide muchneeded funding to ensure Ukrainian evacuees have language and settlement services when they arrive in Alberta.” Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Trade, Immigration and Multiculturalism.

For the full story visit www.alberta. ca under press releases.

Two Hills 4-H Club Communications Event well received

Two Hills 4-H club members with MC and judges

Event MC Xylia Rajoo.

Two Hills 4-H judges and MC. Kyra Lutzak

Ayden Homeniuk

Matthew Elkow

Two Hills 4-H Club Communications Event well received

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Two Hills R.C.M.P. Update by Sgt. Robert Daisley

OnJanuary 27, police received several calls about a male walking on the highway between Beauvallon and Two Hills. Police made a patrol and did not locate the man, but did find a truck which had been stolen from Viking earlier that morning. Further follow-up identified a suspect who was later arrested on an unrelated matter. He provided a statement admitting to the theft and is now being charged by the Viking RCMP. Excellent work by Cst. Haydamashchuk on this file!

Speeder of the month is a 25-yearold male residing in St. Paul who was stopped for speeding (123 in a 100 = $198). Cst. Ramsey found open liquor in the vehicle (only $120 for

that ticket) and made a breath demand. The driver attempted without success to thwart the test and was found to have a significant amount of alcohol in his blood. As a novice driver, he was required to have none, so he received a suspension (30 days), a fine ($240), and a vehicle impoundment (7 days). Failing to produce his registration and insurance came with an additional cost of $486. This terrible driver has been convicted of impaired driving in 2020, charged for speeding four times between July 2021 and October 2022, plus given a seatbelt ticket and some other ones in between.

On February 11, police received a report of a break and enter in progress. Police located the suspect vehicle which fled. The vehicle was located again a short time later and police arrested one female at the scene while two males fled on foot. Police surrounded the area and used the police dog (with the assistance of Cst. McKitrick) to locate the two male suspects. All three have now been charged and investigation continues. The two males were very cold when they were arrested, but they were able to warm up in the cells at the St. Paul Detachment!

On February 17, police received a

complaint of a theft in progress. Officers attended and learned that the suspect had rammed the property owner’s truck with the stolen truck that he was driving. Fortunately, that disabled the suspect’s truck and he fled on foot. Police located him nearby and arrested him. He has been charged with robbery and several other offences and was released on bail the next day.

On February 19, police received a complaint about two people walking on a property. Police attended and determined that the tracks were made by deer! The suspects were not located…

The Two Hills RCMP will be hosting community consultations in Myrnam (March 9) and Andrew (March 14). Check out our Facebook page (https://www.facebook. com/RCMPTwoHills) for details. We are also planning to host a virtual consultation using Facebook

Live for those who can’t attend in person. These forums will be excellent opportunities to ask questions and help us decide what should be the priorities for the year ahead. For those who aren’t aware, the priorities of the detachment are set each April based on the feedback provided by our communities. In the ten years that I’ve been making these plans, the priorities always come from the communities and no one in Ottawa is trying to tell us what to do!

I got a nice e-mail about the column (no, not from my wife this time!) and I’ve tried to take your suggestions into account! As always, anyone can contact me at Robert. Daisley@rcmp-grc.gc.ca with comments about what you want to see in the next column.

Sgt. Robert Daisley, Detachment Commander, Two Hills RCMP

by Sonny Rajoo

I had the distinct pleasure to visit our smaller communities within the County of Two Hills and marveled at their determination to sustain themselves.

Starting in Derwent and ending in the Village of Andrew, my good friend, Bill Albers, and I had a firsthand look at how our small hamlets and villages have a built-in instinct for survival.

In Derwent, our County Reeve Don Gulayec took me to various places and showed me around and I marveled at how this hamlet used its volunteers, County and other grants to upgrade its Recreational Hall, Seniors Centre and the Derwent Fire Department.

In the Village of Myrnam , we saw a beautiful village, construction, and the establishment of C-Tech which adjoins the New Myrnam School. Our gratitude goes out to the past and present County and Vil-

lage councillors.

The beauty of its people and their welcoming nature resulted in Hillside Community Church in Willingdon opening a new church in Myrnam at the site of the old church. Under the able leadership of Pastors Beuckert and Thiessen, this group will do wonders for Myrnam.

Beauvallon has seen its fair share of changes and I was happy to see my good friend, Bob Ross, establish businesses together with residents in Beauvallon. Carol Christensen did a marvelous job with entrenching the Post Office in that peaceful hamlet.

On to Hairy Hill, with its new Post Office and dedicated Hairy Hill Elks, this too is a credit to our community.

The wide streets of Willingdon, with its group of dedicated businessmen and residents have done a sterling job in showcasing this former village.

My stop in Andrew saw a tranquil village with tremendous potential and even more positive changes, add to this the hamlets of Brosseau and Duvernay with its special brand of vounteers.

The Town of Two Hills holds a very special place in my heart and soul and much of this will be in future issues of the Chronicle.

In our final analysis our hats off to County of Two Hills Council and Administration, for believing in strengthening our rural communities.

Greetings to our regular readers,

As I understand, the weather has been extremely trying the past week with extreme temperature warnings issued by the government and school buses not running. This coming at a time when we are starting to expect the temperatures to rise and spring to be around the corner.

Here in South Africa, we are experiencing intense heat waves as well as advanced stages of loadshedding, with power being off for periods of up to four hours at a time. That in turns affects water supply and networks.

The hope I have is that by the time our next issue is due for publication, I will be back in Two Hills. I am restless and eager to be back in the area after many years away.

Despite the plethora of problems that face South Africans, my time here was joy filled and fun, being close to family that I missed much time with while I was in Canada.

Time with my mother and my sisters and all my nephews was invaluable and I will cherish greatly.

Apart from the several hours of travelling, I am excited for the opportunity to be back in Canada.

To be honest, our community is a extra special treasure. Filled with love and support from a community based on strong family values, it will be great to make my home in Two Hills where I can strive to improve and grow the Two Hills Regional Chronicle and deepen our

connections within the community.

I do sincerely hope that my sisters and family plan on visiting soon, and hopefully one day making their homes in the County of Two Hills so they can fall in love with a community that has stolen our family's hearts.

Thank you to all our contributors and advertisers for your support and helping to make our community newspaper one that continues to grow and thrive.

If you have any questions or comments or anything to share, please feel free to contact me by email at publisher@twohillschronicle.com or jareddrajoo@gmail.com. I love to hear from our community. Be it feedback or a news item to share, it is always a pleasure hearing from you.

I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.

Until next month, stay safe and stay healthy.

Tax Season Approaches

With the impending tax season and deadlines, Two Hills Regional Chronicle decided to keep its readers informed.

.Alberta tax advantage chart

Albertans and Alberta businesses continue to pay the lowest overall taxes when compared to other provinces.

Alberta's tax advantage, 2022-23 (billions of dollars)

Alberta Child and Family Benefit

The Alberta Child and Family Benefit (ACFB) provides direct financial assistance to lower and middle-income families with children under 18.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the ACFB, you must:

• be a parent of one or more children under 18

• be a resident of Alberta

• file a tax return

• meet the income criteria

ACFB payments are not taxable. If you receive Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), Income Support or the Alberta child care subsidy, you are still eligible to receive the ACFB. Receiving the ACFB will not affect the benefits you receive under these programs.

Changes in household status

If your household’s status changes, your eligibility for the benefit may change. For example:

• if you have another child, your household may qualify for a greater benefit than you received

Tax rates are based on the following income tax brackets:

• if your family leaves Alberta, you may have to return some of the money received for the months you were not living in the province

• if your family moves to Alberta, you will become eligible in the month after you become a resident

• The Canada Revenue Agency

(CRA) reassesses eligibility on a regular basis, as updated household information is received.

• If your household qualifies for a greater benefit than what was originally paid out, the CRA will issue an additional payment for the difference.

• If your household qualifies for a smaller benefit, or no benefit, you will receive a letter from the CRA indicating that any amount received over your entitlement will have to be returned. For information on how to return amounts owing, contact the CRA at 1-800-959-2809.

Anne Gordeyko: Hillside Beloved Resident A day in the life of a Hillside Lodge resident

by Sonny Rajoo

Anne Gordeyko was born on October 23, 1925, the daughter of Bill and Elizabeth Ewaciuk. She married Bill and had four boys. Her beloved husband, Bill, passed away in 1986 and is still sorely missed.

Anne has a great grasp of living at the lodge, having worked five years as a staff member and five years as a manager at a time when the function of staff was different to modern day services.

The morning starts with Anne, known for her elegance, grace and charm, comes to the breakfast table a little after 7a.m. and enjoys every meal with a sense of gratitude always emphasizing "Somebody up there is looking after me."

Anne enjoys washing her own clothes and usually has a very positive outlook on life as she participates in the days activities.

Shortly after 11a.m., Anne, with her usual punctuality sits down to lunch and enjoys a sumptuous variety of dishes that the kitchen staff prepares for residents. Anne joins her fellow residents, starts refreshments, a good lunch and ends with dessert.

She thinks highly of the kitchen staff and the helpers for the respect and kindness in going about their duties.

If we can sum up Anne's viewpoint of life in the lodge with one sentence, "To the management and staff working at the Lodge is not an activity but a way of life."

In between her meals, Anne can be seen enjoying life at Hillside Lodge

by playing cards with her numerous friends.

Following a snack at 2p.m., Anne is surrounded by several friends where they enjoy fellowship and social interaction.

Anne continues her day at the lodge which she describes as a "very happy" place to be as she sits down to supper at 4:30p.m.

Anne is full of praise for the work done by the management, kitchen staff, housekeeping staff and maintenance staff. Her positive attributes serve as a source of encouragement for her fellow residents and staff.

The Lodge also shows its hospitality by providing snacks at 7p.m.

Anne is full of praise for the home care staff and always do their jobs positively and courteously putting 100 percent into their jobs.

Anne's leadership qualities have been instilled in her sons, including former Reeve and County Councillor Patrick Gordeyko who has a management position running the Utilities Operation of the County, and son Stan who is a retired engineer. Stan returned to Two Hills and provides invaluable service as a volunteer. He is actively involved in the Agricultural Society, the church, and at press time widely tasked as the next President of the Two Hills Seniors Centre Society.

From our family to yours, Anne, we warmly thank you for being a source of inspiration and encouragement to all residents and staff at Hillside Lodge.

This Page sponsored by David and Liz Chomik & Family

Eagle Hill Lodge experiences tremendous growth

by Sonny Rajoo

The residents of Willingdon are never ones to lay back and accept anything thrown at them periodically and the Eagle Hill Lodge is a prime example. Under the new general manager, Anna Lee Laderaite, the lodge has almost doubled its occupancy during the short space of time and is currently home to twenty-three residents.

“Anna-Lee and her team improved the lodge by making it a part of the community and increasing the family atmosphere within it.” Councillor Sebastien Dutrisac said to the Chronicle.

The spacious rooms, great meals, 24-hour medical care and a clean and safe environment beckons to our seniors.

Anna and her team have found innovative ways of providing better quality care, nourishment and a

positive environment.

It is occurrent that Chief Operation Officer Krystal Rayner, Chief Financial Officer Tara Lee Todd, Maintenance Manager Andy Bachelet, and a committed and dedicated Eagle Hill Foundation Board, has put great effort to increase occupation, a problem that has plagued lodges over the past few years.

Lodge residents at all three locations will be provided services, once again, by the Two Hills Medical Clinic doctors.

Factors include five days recreational activities, affordable meals to the community, and a relaxed atmosphere making it a tranquil place for residents to enjoy a worry-free lifestyle.

Allen Cornicki provides excellent maintenance services at the lodge, while the services of the several health care aides cater to the various needs of a diverse group.

Eagle Hill Lodge experiences tremendous growth

County of Two Hills Division 4 Councillor Sebastien Dutrisac with Bob Clooney and Olivia Walchaske at the Willingdon Seniors Centre.

Long Term Care residents thank Two Hills School

Thank You

We would like to extend a heart warming thank you to the Two Hills School for their generous donation of homemade Valentine’s for our resident and making them feel special on Valentine’s Day. This is just one of many occasions that the Two Hills School has made our residents feel special over the years. In December of 2022, all 56 of the Two Hills Long Term Care Residents were asked by the Two Hills School what they would like for Christmas and a wish list was created for Santa. After the wish lists were created, students and their families adopted a resident to make their Christmas wish come true. It was a heartwarming and joyful event appreciated by residents and their families. Thank you to the Two Hills School Faculty and students for making out residents feel special this year!

Sincerely, the Two Hills Long Term Care residents and Allied Health Team!

Getting to know the Derwent Fire Department

by Deb Gulayec

The Derwent Fire Department has been around for many years; in 1949 the Brigade purchased our first fire truck: a 1913 LaFrance pumper. During this time, many individuals have volunteered their time and effort for the community as members and executives. It takes a lot of time and dedication to be a volunteer fire fighter, being ready 24 hours/day, 365 days/year, never knowing when the next call might be. As a department, we spend thousands of hours each year attending incidents, meetings, practices, and training. Things have changed over the years including the gear, equipment, and regulations.

The Derwent Fire Department consists of 26 volunteer members

and 5 junior members from the hamlet and surrounding area. We are unique as a volunteer department, since in addition to fundraising, none of us keep a wage. Instead, we donate the income to an account which helps to fund our equipment upgrades. An example of this is our Kubota UTV, mounted on tracks, which has a high pressure, low volume pump that can spray a water/ foam mixture for approximately 40 minutes on a fill. This machine allows us to get into areas that are not accessible with traditional fire trucks for fire suppression and first aid.

Another great asset that we purchased is our drone, which has a 4K camera and infrared capabilities for detecting hot spots. We take the drone on all calls, using it to analyze scenes and dispatch resources

effectively. Another valuable use is search and rescue. Footage is used for response analysis and training. Other recent purchases include an additional fire truck, jaws of life, and more.

We are proud of being a multigeneration department; many of our fathers belonged to the department years ago. We are a very close group which is why we excel.

At the beginning of 2021, we decided to take on a project to support STARS Air Ambulance. The Derwent Fire Department grew 21 acres of canola. All proceeds from the crop were donated to STARS. Members of the department and the greater community donated time, equipment, fuel, and inputs in order to grow and harvest the crop. We invited cash donations, and received

a generous response to our giving levels: 1/4 Acre for $50+, Silver for $100+, Gold for $250+, and Platinum for $500+. In total, we were able to issue a cheque to STARS for $17,500.28.

This year we continued the project planting the same field with wheat. We again invited cash donations at the same levels as before. On November 23, we were proud to present the STARS air ambulance foundation with a Cheque for $20,000.00. We would like to thank all of our volunteers and generous donors!

Pictures and info can be found on our social media at Instagram= @DERWENT_FIRE_ AB and on twitter= @ABDERWENT

Derwent Golden Age Club invites all to join fun

See you there…

(Submitted

Every Friday night our Derwent Golden Age Club members gather together for an evening of pool,darts, game playing, gym time or floor curling. Everyone is welcome to join us for a evening of socializing. Doors open at 7:00

by Deb Gulayec)

Derwent: A community that stands together grows together

by Sonny Rajoo

It's a short drive from the Village of Myrnam on Highway 45 to the Hamlet of Derwent.

Dotting the Albertan landscape are communities that are resilient, courageous with a determination to survive the good times and the tougher ones.

The people of Derwent ascribe to the belief "The God of the Mountains is the God of the Valley."

The Derwent Fire Department is a prime example of how the

community can come together with a positive outlook and deep sense of devotion coupled with a massive dose of volunteerism. At an age when fire departments are searching for volunteers, Derwent Fire Department has a waiting list of twelve.

A visit to the Derwent Recreational Centre shows a large hall, recently renovated, which can accommodate seven hundred people.

The Derwent Seniors Centre serves many functions and provides a perfect back drop for our

seniors to gather and socialize.

The Derwent Hotel, famous for its pizza, the new convenience store with its Post Office, are just a few examples of Derwent's appeal.

It's little wonder then that Derwent's population has grown from eighty-one to over a hundred with only three houses for sale.

The Two Hills Regional Chronicle offers our greatest appreciation for those in the tranquil hamlet, that contribute so beautifully to our community.

Some pictures of the beautiful Hamlet of Derwent, showcasing the Derwent Fire Department, Recreational Centre, and churches

(Photos by Bill Albers).

Derwent: A community that stands together grows together

This page sponsored by

Don and Deb Gulayec and family

Alberta Canola Announces New Board of Directors

2022 Alberta lamb and sheep market update

Alberta bucks the trend in live lamb prices.

“Provincial live lamb prices as reported by Statistics Canada show an annual decrease in 2022 compared to 2021 for all provinces except Alberta,” says Ann Boyda, provincial livestock market analyst with the Alberta government. “Alberta average live weight price was reported

at $242.44 per hundredweight for 2022, up 4.7% from 2021. Ontario has normally been the benchmark market for western pricing. Quebec reported an average live lamb price of $286.98 per hundredweight, down 7% from 2021.”

Edmonton, AB – January 23, 2023, Alberta Canola is pleased to welcome four new directors to the Board, Christi Friesen from Brownvale, Paula Law from Lacombe, Jeannette Andrashewski from Two Hills, and Cheryl Westman from Vermilion. Friesen will represent Region 1, Law Region 7, Andrashewski region 4, and Westman region 10.

Following the 33rd Annual General Meeting held on January 17, 2023 in Lethbridge, at the 1st annual Alberta Canola Conference, the Board re-elected both Roger Chevraux of Killam as the Chair, and Ian Chitwood of Airdrie as the Vice Chair.

Monthly Lamb Live Weight Prices

Auction market price volatility increased in 2021 and 2022. In 2021, average weekly price for heavy weight lambs peaked in January at $396.50 per hundredweight, but declined to a low of $182.50 per hundredweight during the first week of October. In 2022, average weekly

price for heavy lamb rose to $316.50 per hundredweight the first week of May but plummeted to a low of $134 per hundredweight in mid-August. Light weight lamb prices experienced even more dramatic swings in 2022.

“Alberta Canola would like to thank outgoing directors, Dan Doll, John Mayko, Mike Ammeter and Cale

Staden for all their hard work over the last six years. Representing Alberta’s canola growers and the different needs of their regions helped the Board exercise good judgement and make sound decisions,” said Roger Chevraux. “The Board is grateful for their contributions and diverse perspectives.”

During the Annual General Meeting Alberta’s canola growers voted to approve the new draft bylaws as presented. Alberta Canola would like to thank Marketing Council staff for their guidance during this process. The next steps before the Bylaws and new Marketing Plan Regulation come into effect are to gain approval from the Marketing Council board and the Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation.

Average Weekly Alberta Heavy and Light Lambs

Boyda points out provincial slaughter has followed a seasonal trend in 2022 but adds the total slaughter volume of 22,980 head was 8% low-

er than 2021, nearly 23% lower than 2020 and almost 11% lower than the 5-year average.

Alberta Monthly Provincially Inspected Sheep/Lamb Slaughter

“Alberta has maintained a relatively stable market in light of the recent sale of an Alberta lamb processing plant and Iron Springs feedlot to Préval Ag,” says Boyda. “The Quebec-based company is recognized as a leader in the agri-food indus-

try (veal, beef, lamb, field crops, horticulture and grain processing). With Préval Ag’s strong foothold in the international market, the future for the Alberta lamb sector looks brighter.”

Back Row (L-R) Christi Friesen, Charles Simoneau, Jeannette Andrashewski, Paula Law. Wayne Schneider, Christine McKee, Justin Nanninga, Alan Hampton. Front Row (seated L-R) Andre Harpe, Roger Chevraux, Ian Chitwood. Absent: Cheryl Westman

An Opinion from the Saddle: Farmers Already on the Way to Meet Emission Targets

International initiatives towards agricultural sustainability and emission reductions have attempted to get industry to adopt best management practices regarding fertilizer use. In a nutshell, we have been asked to participate in a marathon that we already been involved in for years. In the Western Provinces, Agricultural sector have been implementing management plans which includes the 4R Nutrient Stewardship® (Right Source, Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place ®) for years. Producers have refined the application of fertilizers at the Right Rate over the last few decades. The plan starts with soil testing to give pro-

ducers a baseline to examine what the soil has already available, just like we use a gas gauge on a vehicle to see how much fuel we have in the tank. At this point, producers will establish the soil nutrient management plan. If the soil nutrient levels are more than adequate, a sufficiency plan will be inacted to add the nutrients that will be lacking to produce a healthy crop. When an application is made in a manner to add nutrient levels utilized by the crop for one year of production so the practice doesn’t mine the soil of all of it's nutrient over time, it is called nutrient replacement plan. Last but not least, if soil is severely deficient with nutrient, a soil building plan will be applied, making sure we add at a slightly increased rate so the soil will build up nutrient levels without losing any of the fertilizer through leaching or volatization. Understanding the impact of how fertilizer application affects the plant uptake and fertilizer losses has also improved. Fertilizing is not a cookie cutter situation as placement needs to match the specific nutrient and how they will be stored and utilized

in the soil. Broadcasting was very popular in the past, due to it being time, labour, and fuel efficient as well as improving the conversion of elemental Sulfur by the microbes for plant use which compared to sulfates that don’t require conversion. This is where Right Source at Right Place comes into effect as broadcasting comes at a cost. It is where up to a 100% nitrogen (N) will be lost, when not worked in as well as reducing phosphate (P) and Potassium (K) availability to plants if your soil is already too low in those nutrients. Today, 2 nutrient placements are improving fertilizer efficiency. Fertilizer Banding has the advantages of minimizing N loss, increases availability of P and K, and protect the plant from excess nutrient exposure in nutrient deficient soils. But banding requires better/more equipment and is time consuming. Seed Placed Fertilizer improves early nutrient plant uptake (Right Time), reduces (N) loss and allows for a one pass solution. As a disadvantage, it requires more/better equipment, labour and time compared to broadcast and limits the amount of fertilizer that

can be applied to a nutrient deprived soil.

The Fertilizer plans aren’t universal, each is tailormade for climate, soil type and nutrient levels, crop being grown, and producer goals. Every decision is based on clear indicators justifying when a fertilizer application will be done and how it will be done. The international community needs to recognize that Prairie Producers evolved over the last century from being a small farmer to an educated entrepreneurs that operate a multimillion-dollar business that includes knowledge of scientific concepts and complex tools with the end goal in protecting both the land and their bottom line. If you want to learn more about 4R Nutrient Stewardship, contact your local qualified Professional Agronomist and/or Certified Crop Advisor or on the internet at https://fertilizercanada.ca/our-focus/advocacy/whatsin-it-4r-me/ .

Sebastien Dutrisac

Canola price seasonality

Seasonal price patterns are one factor to consider when developing a marketing plan and analyzing a market.

tober period when there is the most abundant supply,” explains Blue. “Harvest progress, yield reports and buyer demand all affect timing of harvest price lows. After a harvest low, prices usually rebound as harvest-time selling pressure subsides and as demand again becomes evident.”

best time to forward price some expected production, considering cash flow needs and available storage for the expected new crop.”

“Many factors influence commodity prices,” says Neil Blue, provincial crops market analyst with the Alberta government. “The main price determining factors for most commodities are supply and demand.”

Factors affecting the availability of crop or of a competing crop in the largest production areas together with demand for those crops have the greatest influence on a crop’s price.

“Therefore, from the supply side, prices tend to follow the production cycle of a crop. To help with their pricing decisions, crop marketers

should be aware of seasonal price patterns of crops that they produce.”

Seasonal prices are calculated by taking the average price for a certain period, such as a week or month, and comparing it to the average price over a longer period such as a year. Seasonal prices are usually plotted on a bar graph, with the annual price average as Index 100. Usually, such a calculation uses data from several years, thus reducing the influence of contra-seasonal price moves that happen in some years.

“Canola prices tend to make a low during the September-Oc-

Canola prices tend to level off into year-end, trade sideways to lower into mid-February and then improve into spring. Canola prices tend to peak sometime in May-June and, unless production problems continue to support prices, canola prices usually erode from mid-July into a harvest low. Often that price decline into harvest is interrupted by a frost concern in August or early September.

“Seasonal price patterns are one factor to consider when developing a marketing plan and analyzing a market. Fall delivered prices tend to be the highest at the beginning of the growing season when production uncertainty is the highest. That is often the

However, Blue points out that in a year of reduced crop production in a major Northern hemisphere area, prices can rise during the growing season right into harvest. “Because of this possibility and that of an unexpected production shortfall on your farm, it is recommended to forward contract with buyers no more than about 35% of expected production prior to harvest. To price a higher percentage of canola before harvest, it is prudent to use the futures or options market to avoid the additional physical delivery commitments of contracts.”

Seasonal prices should be considered as more of a tendency than a certainty. “However, of the many factors that can affect crop prices, the seasonal price pattern is a factor to keep in mind,” says Blue.

County of Two Hills No. 21

SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The County of Two Hills would like to invite applications for 2 seasonal Agricultural Service Board employees.

This is a seasonal position and the successful candidates will be undertaking a variety of programs with the Agricultural Service Board, commencing May 1, 2023 to August 31, 2023, with possible extension

Basic work week is 8:30am-4:30pm Monday to Friday.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Operating various spraying equipment, including spray trucks, side-by-side mounted spray equipment and backpack sprayers.

• Creating detailed reports of herbicide applications.

• Maintaining spray equipment.

• Safety orientated by using appropriate personal protective equipment, following safe work practices and procedures, monitoring and servicing equipment.

• Assisting with weed inspections and annual crop pest surveillance, including insect and pest management. Other duties as required.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Have a valid Alberta Class 5 Operators License.

• Have a general understanding of farming operations and/or farming background.

• Have the ability to operate and maintain equipment.

• Able to work effectively independently and as part of a team.

• Be willing to perform vegetation management controls which may include mowing/ spraying/grass seeding/crop survey.

• Have strong knowledge and/or background in field crops, diseases and/or other pests.

• Able to lift 50 lbs., sit/walk for long durations and perform work outdoors in various weather conditions.

• Pesticide Applicators License (Agricultural, Industrial), Authorized Assistant or the ability to obtain would be an asset.

Rate of Pay: $23.76 hour based on 7.5 Hours/day; 37.5 Hours/week.

Please submit resume to: Elden Kozak

Agricultural Fieldman Box 490, Two Hills, Alberta

T0B 4K0

Phone 780-657-3358, Fax 780-657-3504

Email ekozak@thcounty.ab.ca

Application Closing Date: March 17, 2023 at 4:30pm

We thank all applicants for their interest; however only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

County of Two Hills Office

4818 50 Avenue | Box 490

Two Hills AB T0B 4K0

Phone 780-657-3358 Fax 780-657-3504

www.thcounty.ab.ca

Keeping the Mukluk Tradition Alive!

by Sydney Chanasyk

While New Myrnam School is known mainly for our unique projects and activities for students, many would argue that our most well known tradition is Mukluk! Mukluk is our school's annual winter carnival that has been running for the past 38 years. Students in all grades look forward to participating in this tradition each year. The school is grouped into 3 age categories; grades 1-5, grades 6-8, and grades 9-12. Each group does different activities every year, including making fires, cross-country skiing, and coming up with team names and anthems. Since starting in 1985, Mukluk has continued to evolve and include new activities or ideas that students and staff work hard to come up with. Some of the new additions this year include human dogsledding, and hide and seek throughout the school. But this is not how Mukluk has always looked. For its first year, it was simply known as a winter carnival. The events of this year included can stacking, pudding eating, nail pounding, and the infa-

mous broomball! Broomball is one of the few activities that has stuck with Mukluk through the years, and is still done today! Also, before the groups were split into age categories, they were split into houses in junior/senior high and elementary. These houses would not only compete against each other to win Mukluk that year, but also competed in different activities throughout the year against each other. The winning house of Mukluk would win medals, and the following teams got ribbons. They even used to crown a king and queen of Mukluk each year! Going back to this year, a not so shy deer came to participate in tug of war with our junior high students; and a huge salad bar and hot chocolate with cookies was provided to all students, put together by parent council. So much work goes into making Mukluk happen each year and we are incredibly thankful for everyone who puts in time and effort in order to keep the tradition alive.

The peaceful Village of Myrnam

Village of Myrnam Administration office

Myrnam Convenience Store

Myrnam grain elevator

Myrnam Fire Department (Photos by Bill Albers)

Two Hills County celebrates Pink Shirt Day

(L -R) Tessa Rayner, Krystal Rayner, and Charlotte Rayner

Pink Shirt Day at New Myrnam School

Pink Shirt Day at Two Hills School

Brosseau Cash Calendar Winners for January and February

Pink Shirt Day at Two Hills Mennonite School

1950’s engine refurbished by grade 8 student Reece at New Myrnam School.

On December 24, 2022, Nancy Bidulock of Fort Saskatchewan, formerly of Hairy Hill, passed away peacefully with family at her side at the age of 92. We take comfort in knowing she joined her husband Nick, of 65 years, on Christmas Eve, a day always enjoyed with family. Nancy leaves daughter, Eileen Farrus and sons, John (Wava) and Doug (Donna) to cherish her life along with 4 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and close friend, Pat Lasalle. Among many lifetime accomplishments, Nancy will be remembered as a multi-talented farm wife and homemaker, gifted gardener and chef and dedicated bus driver. Her warm personality, servant’s heart and work ethic will forever be cherished. A funeral service will be held Friday, January 6, 2023 at 1:00 pm at First Memorial - Riverview Chapel, 11090 86 Avenue, Fort Saskatchewan followed by Interment at Fort Saskatchewan Cemetery with Father, Kolin Berglund, presiding. Memorial donations may be made to St. Nicholas Church, Desjarlais, Alberta PO Box 271, T0B 4R0

To express condolences to the family, please visit: www.riverviewfuneral.com

Happy Birthday

Two Hills Regional Chronicle takes this opportunity to wish Xylia Rae Rajoo a superb 15th birthday. Thank you for being a ray (Rae) of sunshine to us all, especially Thatha.

May your years ahead be filled with more love, laughter, and fabulous adventures.

Aunt Niri’s Fun Corner From my corner

in a ‘one-day-only love celebration, and for those of us who really find ourselves with limited resources, be it financial etc, here are a few ways to keep the love for longer than 24 hours…

• Celebrate love everyday

• A foot rub or head massage

• Writing a personal love letter or poem

Hello precious readers

February is known to be referred to as the ‘month of love’. Valentine’s Day ( February 14th) is a longstanding day reserved for the celebration of love, the declaration of love, or a display of romantic affection. Society no longer associates Valentine’s Day as simply romantic love, but love of all kinds. And yet, love still dominates!

Valentine’s Day has come and gone, and with that, sometimes even the person who the love was directed at……

I personally feel that this day and the symbolism that goes with it, has become highly commercialised and abused! Why do we have to wait for special days or occasions to celebrate ones love or more still, why do we have to go to extraordinary, and sometimes extravagant lengths to prove our love and commitment to someone???

Love in essence, is supposed to be unconditional, committed and sacred, but the world depicts a sensationalised, lustful, and rather romanticised version of what love really is. We often feel despondent, or downplay our gestures if they do not suit the current trends.

For those of us who do not believe

• Pick a wild flower instead of a bouquet

• Leave a little note in his/ her lunch bag

• Text randomly

• Call randomly

• Perform a chore without being asked

• Picnic in your living room

• Find out your partner’s love language and work accordingly And the list goes on…..

Maybe you have more suggestions? Kindly email them to news@ twohillschronicle.com and should you wish to remain anonymous, we will respect that!!!

As I say bye for now, let us remember these verses of the Love Chapter from The One Who loves us the most…

Love is patient, love is kind, it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud, it is not rude, it is not selfseeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no records of wrong-doings.

Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth, it always protects, always trusts, always hopes and always preserves. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7.

Till next month, let us keep up the love!

Love always, Niri