Two Hills Regional Chronicle - November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle November, 2023

P.O. Box 156, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0

FREE

w w w. t w o h i l l s c h r o n i c l e . c o m This issue now available online

within the County of Two Hills

Proudly Serving the County of Two Hills & Surrounding Areas

Strengthening our Rural Communities Phillips Family receives prestigious BMO Farm Family Award

For 50 years, farm families from northern and central Alberta communities have been recognized as the recipients of the BMO Farm Family Award. Award recipients are selected as outstanding families who best represent values of the family farm within their rural community. The award honours both their farm business practices and community involvement. Myrnam Ag Society nominated the Phillips Family. Pictured above is Murray, Kaila, Mason, Carson, Payton, Raymond, Candace and Julie Phillips with Jordan Suvak and County of Two Hills Counc. Elroy Yakemchuk and Fort Saskatchewan – Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong – Homeniuk at the presentation at Farmfair International in Edmonton November 10. (Photo by Ruven Rajoo)

Elaine Sorochan acclaimed

By Ruven Rajoo

Y

ou can take the person out of politics but you can never take politics out of a person. This expression profiles one of our community’s longest serving town councillors and former mayor Elaine Sorochan.

In a byelection held in the town of Two Hills in early November, Sorochan filled a vacancy on town council following the

resignation of former councillor and CAO Gerrren Saskiw.

Her previous portfolios include the Two Hills Improvement Committee, Eagle Hill Foundation, Library boards and several other organizations.

Sorochan also served on the “Women in Politics” committee of the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association.

5038 - 50 AVENUE, POSTAL DRAWER 929 VEGREVILLE, AB, T9C 1S1

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Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Phillips elected Reeve Hillside Lodge Remembrance Day

By Ruven Rajoo

A

t the organizational meeting of the county of Two Hills held Nov. Division 2 councillor Murray Phillips was elected reeve. Former Reeve Don Gulayec was elected deputy reeve.

First elected as councillor in 2017, Phillips served on various committees including Sports Activity Council, Agricultural Service Board

and several other organizations. The father of three brings a new dimension to municipal politics and is the former deputy reeve.

The Phillips family are wellknown farmers and community leaders in the Beauvallon area. The Phillips family was awarded the “BMO Farm Family Award” Nov. 10. See Face to Face in-depth interview with Reeve Phillips in our next Christmas edition.

Hillside Lodge - Two Hills had a small intimate beautiful Remembrance Day ceremony November 10. Thank you to everyone who attended and took part.

(L-R) Dale Thomspon, Pastor Ted Lantz, Frank Wiebe (resident), Pat Ewanishan and Mayor of Two Hills Leonard Ewanishan.

November 2023

E

arlier this week, Alberta’s government announced the recipients of an additional $16 million in capital maintenance and renewal (CMR) funding to invest in government-owned affordable housing units. I am very pleased to share that Eagle Hill Foundation, located in Two Hills, is one of the recipients, receiving $250,000. I will continue to advocate for housing affordability for everyone in our constituency, and every Albertan.

Our government is also providing $10 million to food banks and community organizations across the province so Albertans can access the food they need. $3.7 million is going to food banks this month (of this funding, $900,000 has already been provided to Family and Community Support Services Association of Alberta to administer food security grants, and to shelters to provide food for those experiencing homelessness). Additionally, a $4.1 million Food Security grant call will open in November. A further $2.2 million will be provided to Food Banks Alberta to develop

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

a program to support communities during emergency needs and events.

For more details on these programs, please visit https://www.alberta.ca/ food-security.

My friend and colleague, Grande Prairie MLA Nolan Dyck has introduced Private Members’ Bill 203, the Foreign Credential Advisory Committee Act, to create a more streamlined and efficient credential advisory system. I know that easier and faster credentials recognition is a priority for many in our community. In my role as Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services and Ukrainian Evacuees, I have also had many discussions with newcomers who have shared their inability to find employment suiting their skills and training due to delays in the credentials recognition process. This bill will help streamline this process so new Albertans are able to support themselves and contribute to the overall economy using their skills.

Our government is refocusing the health care system to improve health outcomes for Albertans and empower health care works to deliv-

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Pictured above are Fort Saskatchewan - Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong - Homeniuk and Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services Jason Nixon with Eagle Hill Foundation board and administration at a recent meeting in Two Hills.

(L-R) Mike Tarkowski, EHF CAO and General Manager - Hillside Lodge Krystal Rayner, Chair Elroy Yakemchuk, General Manager Eagle Hill Lodge Annalee Laderoute, Donna Rudolf, Minister Jason Nixon, MLA Jackie Amstrong - Homeniuk, Sebastien Dutrisac and Vice Chair Dianne Saskiw. er quality care across the province.

Engaging with health care workers and listening to the input of patients, families and caregivers remains a top priority for our government.

To date, over 8,000 doctors, nurses, health care professionals and Albertans have participated in the initial round of engagement sessions. We have now made available an online survey for all Albertans, and I encourage everyone to provide your

feedback. To take the survey, and for more information, please visit https://www.alberta.ca/shape-theway.

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

PO Box 428 Two Hills AB T0B 4K0 5606 51 ST Phone: 780 657 2446

Fax: 780 657 2731

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY:

780-657-2800

Email: countygas@thcounty.ab.ca

Click Before You Dig Saves Lives!

Utilitysafety.ca 1 800 242 3447

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

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November 2023

Two Hills School 2022-2023 Awards Ceremony held on Friday, October 20th

Grade 7 award recipients

Grade 8 award recipients

Grade 9 award recipients

Grade 10 award recipients

Grade 6

Certificates of Merit Xaraya Rajoo

Sierra Cripps

Highest Academic Standing - Sponsored

by Two Hills United Church Women

Sara Morey

Sarah Olaleye

Hairy Hill Elks Club Cash Award ($100.00) for the Highest Academic Average

St. Paul Education Regional Division #1 Highest Academic Standing ($100.00)

Grade 7

Highest Academic Standing - Sponsored by Two Hills United Church Women Aleera Logozar

Grade 9

St. Paul Education Regional Division #1 Highest Academic Standing ($200.00)

Honours Certificates Cleo Denman Katryna Lutzak Aleera Logozar

David Yakimowich Memorial Scholarship ($100.00) for Second Place Honours

Certificates of Merit

Jyotsna Bodhicharla

Blake Dolejsi Molly Fediuk

Honours Certificates Jyotsna Bodhicharla Emilia Olah Madison Elkow Emmanuel Olaleye Ella Kitz Sarah Olaleye Mason Lutzak

Grade 8

Sarah Olaleye

Highest Academic Standing - Sponsored

by Two Hills United Church Women Hailey Axley Honours Certificates Adrianna Agnemark Samuel Saskiw Hailey Axley

Office : 780-657-3358 Fax : 780-657-3504 Email : info@thcounty.ab.ca Website : www.thcounty.ab.ca

Certificates of Merit Haiden Morrison Kayden Taschuk

“ congratulations to our Two Hills School Award Winners.

We are so proud of you.”

Grade 10

Highest Academic Standing- Sponsored

by Two Hills Lions Club

Sara Morey Honours Certificates Jacklyn Hartle Paul Saskiw Raeanna Krahn Aubrey Sorochan Ayden Lapaschuk Daisy Steinbrecker Miranda Mandryk Ava Toma Sara Morey Lena Unger Jorja Nikiforuk Medea Wiebe Certificates of Merit Austin Buchanan Kyra Luzak Brandon Laschowski

PO Box 428 Two Hills AB T0B 4K0 5606 51 ST Phone : 780 657 2446 Fax : 780 657 2731

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY:

780-657-2800 Email: countygas@thcounty.ab.ca

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Page 5

Two Hills School 2022-2023 Awards Ceremony held on Friday, October 20th

Grade 11 award recipients

Athletic award recipients Special guests: L-R St Paul Education Associate Superintendent Steve Schaar, County of Two Hills councillor Dianne Saskiw, School Board Trustee Jan Rajoo, Mayor of Two Hills Leonard Ewanishan with Two Hills Principal Colin Kupchenko.

Grade 11 Highest Academic Standing- Sponsored

by Two Hills Lions Club

Madison Morrison Julia Dolejsi Selena Wiebe

Allana Homeniuk

Certificates of Merit Braden Kereliuk Karson Rowe Logan Lang

Honours Certificates Amy Guenther Josie Lutzak Allana Homeniuk Noemi Olah

Lynnale Melenka Memorial Art Scholarship Grade 4: Ivy Thompson (award presented previously) Grade 12: Julia Dolejsi

Special Awards Governor General of Canada Award Henry Burrows

Certificates of Merit Kylin Gratton Alex Wiebe Nicholas Lutic Kyler Zazula

Kinette Club of Vegreville Bursary ($500) Henry Burrows Leader of Tomorrow Scholarship Award ($1000) Anastasia Morey

Grade 12

St. Paul Education Regional Division #1 Highest Academic Standing ($300.00) Anastasia Morey Highest Academic Standing- Sponsored

by Two Hills Lions Club

Dave Hohol Memorial Award Highest Academic Standing in Social Studies 10-1 ($100.00) Sara Morey Highest Academic Standing in Social Studies 20-1 ($200.00) Allana Homeniuk Highest Academic Standing in Social Studies 30-1 ($300.00) Anastasia Morey

Maria Samoil-Marchak Memorial Scholarship ($1500) Anastasia Morey Ruth Bateyko Memorial Scholarship ($1000) Selena Wiebe

Anastasia Morey

Two Hills Agricultural Society Scholarship ($1000) Selena Wiebe

Honours Certificates Kaleb Boettcher Anastasia Morey Henry Burrows

Nadine Stefiuk Athletic Scholarship Award ($100) Kaleb Boettcher CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 4712 50 Street P.O. Box 630, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0 Phone: 780-657-3395 Fax: 780-657-2158 Email: info@townoftwohills.com

Outstanding Junior High Athletes – Sponsored by Two Hills School Female: Ella Kitz, Shaylean Laschowski Male: Sebastian Toma Outstanding High School Female Athlete Award – Sponsored by Two Hills School Madison Morrison Outstanding High School Male Athlete Award – Sponsored by Two Hills School Braden Kereliuk

Honourable Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, ECA MLA, Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville Parliamentary Secretary for Settlement Services & Ukrainian Evacuees Fort Saskatchewan Constituency Office

: 9940 99 Ave.

Vegreville Constituency office

: 4927 51. Ave.

P: 780 632 6840 Email: fortsaskatchewan.vegreville@assembly.ab.ca

“Congratulations to our Two Hills School Award Winners.

We are so proud of you.”

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

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November 2023

St Paul Education Board Meeting Highlights for November 8, 2023

Community Consultations As part of its strategic plan and evaluation, the Board indicated its desire to hold community consultations. The intent is topromote engagement and gather feedback from parents and community stakeholders on educational issues. This initiativewill be done in consultation with Division leadership. The Board approved a motion to create a community consultationcommittee that will be a committee of the whole.

tive budget adjustment of$350,000.

The Province announced additional Learning Disruption grant funding which is intended to provide targeted programmingin literacy and numeracy for the remainder of this school year. The Division will be receiving $64,125.

The Board will review the yearend audit on November 23, 2023.

Two public members are still being sought for the auditcommittee.

ATA Agreement: The Board and teachers have ratified local terms for a new collective agreement.

2024-25 School Calendar The Division is in the early stages of creating the 2024-25 learning calendar. Planning will follow a similar process as lastyear and incorporate feedback from staff, parents and other community stakeholders.

SchoolMessenger We are in the early stages of phase one of SchoolMessenger implementation across the Division. This communication toolwill allow schools to send notifications to families via phone, text and email. Parents have been invited to opt-in or out ofreceiving text messages. Phase two of SchoolMessenger implementation will include activating the attendance reportingfeature, Safe Arrival, and is expected to begin early in

From left to right: Melvin Abraham, Jan Rajoo, Darcy Younghans, Sylvie Smyl, Dwight Wiebe, Lorette Andersen 2024.

2022 Scholarship Program A video will soon be released recognizing our Local Scholarship Recipients for our division-wide scholarship program. Werecognize the hard work and accomplishments of our students and would also like to thank all of our local scholarshipsponsors for supporting our students.

Local Authorities Election Act Review Alberta’s government is seeking input from the public and stakeholders

For more information, contact: Mr. Peter Barron Superintendent of Schools barrpete@sperd.ca

on the Local Authorities Elections Act whichgoverns school trustee and municipal elections. A public survey is open until December 6 and will help inform potentialchanges. Additional information and the link to complete the surveys is available here Financial Report The transition to a new insurance provider has been finalized with the new policy year starting November 1. The Division ispleased to report that the premiums have gone down significantly and will result in a posi-

Myrnam Community Library Northern Lights Library System (NLLS) has served notice that they will cease operating the municipal library located inNew Myrnam School effective December 22, 2023.

The Board is hopeful that community and municipal stakeholders canfind a solution to keep the program in operation.

Minister of Education Visit SPERD representatives had an opportunity to meet with Minister Demetrios Nicolaides on October 12.

St Paul Education

Learning Together, Growing Together

Hillside Christian Academy sings for Eagle Hill Lodge Residents

Hairy Hill Elks Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Hillside Christian Academy came to sing for the residents at Eagle Hill Lodge.

Pictured above in order are Miss Tanya who teaches grade 1, Miss Cristina who teaches grade 2, Miss Mary who teaches grade 4, Miss Judy teaches kindergarden, and Miss Maria who teaches grade 3.

(Photo and information provided by Anna-lee Laderoute, General Manager - Eagle Hill Lodge)

The Hairy Hill Elks held their 75th Anniversary celebration at the Hairy Hill Hall November 18th. Pictured above is Elks members: Standing (L-R) Soren Odegard, Don Lobay, Elmer Clark, Ron Andrashewski, Walter Eliuk, Rick Ruptash, Don de Beaudrap, Ervin Esak, Ruven Rajoo, Ryan Yakemchuk, Ryle Bidulock, Elroy Yakemchuk, Barry Soprovich; Seated (L-R) Orest Wisniewski, Melvin Verenka, Frank Farynowski, Stan Andrashewski, and Willis Soprovich. See next edition of The Chronicle for full details as well as the history of the Hairy Hill Elks.

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Straight from the Heart

Editorial

CAOs and Councils: The widening gulf in their relationships

by Sonny Rajoo

T

here was a time when I thought that an optimistic Economic Development Officer was one who took lunch to work, after all he or she did not know whether there was a job for them at lunch time.

Unfortunately, the same can now be said for Chief Administrative Officers who are at the mercy of councils as is evident in many communities around us.

The Village of Andrew is but one example where they had four CAOs in the space of two years and just last week the Mayor excepted the resignation of the interim CAO who took up the position in Bruderheim.

The Town of Two Hills has faired not well either with a hiring and firing of CAOs in the not too distant past.

Many years ago a candidate for mayor in a northern Alberta town told me he was running to fire the existing CAO. I reminded my good friend that he was doing the right thing (running for council) for the wrong reason ie. Running to fire the CAO. Fortunately, that relationship improved so vastly that in the time

at the end of the term for the Mayor in question, the CAO and Mayor became good friends.

A few years ago a new county councillor of the County of Two Hills when asked why he was running for councillor, told me that the pendulum has swung to far the other way and some CAOs thought “they were Lord and master of all they survey”.

Conversely, some elected officials sit there and bark orders like Mussolini on the balcony. The Municipal Government Act has changed and the mindset of some CAOs makes them believe that they are all powerful.

Gone are the days that a county councillor can instruct a grader operator to put more gravel in his division or a town councillor who blows his whistle and expects town staff to run as a puppy at their whim and fancy.

Dear beloved somewhere lies the truth. There should be a distinct difference of the respective roles and the sooner they learn the difference the better it is for all concerned.

One has to only look at many municipalities within a 100 km radius and see how many drastic changes were made that the tremors felt long after these resignation or firings are etched in the memories of many ratepayers.

Chief Administrative Officers are currently walking a tight rope. Will they fall to the left and keep a positive environment for their employees or fall to the right towing the line of councillors even if they are misguided or reach the safety of the other side and take their people with them?

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From the Publisher's Desk

Remembering those who fought for Freedom Greetings to all our readers,

N

ovember is a very special month. Particularly the 11th.

It is our time to take a moment and reflect and pay our respects and offer tribute to those brave men and women who risk their lives for the freedom we enjoy.

Here is a small tribute to our heroes: To the brave souls who answered the call, Who stood for courage, risking it all, In fields afar and seas unknown, Your valor and sacrifice forever shown.

Through trials and battles, you stood strong, Defending freedom, where you belong, Your selfless acts, a beacon bright, Guiding nations through darkest night.

In hearts and memories, your story lives, Each sacrifice, the nation gives Gratitude deep, for every life laid, For liberty's cause, undying aid.

With honor and respect, we pay, For those who served, this heartfelt display, Your courage, sacrifice, and unity, Forever etched in our history.

Thank you for your service and devotion, For safeguarding freedom, unwavering emotion.

Your legacy, a shining light, In our

thoughts, forever in sight.

The Chronicle team would like to apologize to those who have been trying to contact us via email. Due to the increased risk associated with being online and the rise in cyber crime the Two Hills Regional Chronicle has opted to migrate our servers to a more secure host. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused and assure you the matter will be resolved promptly.

Be sure to get in touch with us to share your Christmas wishes in our next issue of the Two Hills Regional Chronicle.

Just a reminder, this issue of the Chronicle and all previous issues are available to view on our website www.twohillschronicle.com, or on issuu.com.

Until next month, stay safe and stay healthy.

Be sure to check out our website at www. twohillschronicle.com to view this issue and all previous issues.

If you have any news items to share with our community or would like to advertise, feel free to contact us.

Like us on Facebook.

Our Team Two Hills Regional Chronicle Jared - publisher@twohillschronicle.com P.O. Box 156, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0

www.twohillschronicle.com

Jared (alt) - jareddrajoo@gmail.com Niri - news@twohillschronicle.com Sonny - (780) 657-3536 Ravika - sales@twohillschronicle.com

The Two Hills Regional Chronicle is proud to serve the County of Two Hills and surrounding areas.

We also distribute to local outlets at convenient locations as well as the Saddle Lake Cree Nation.

(Approx. 3000 copies).

Jared Rajoo Publisher

Niri Jeevanath News

Jan Rajoo Ruven Rajoo Consultant Community Affairs

Sonny Rajoo Morgan Gordeyko Reporter/Sales Editorial

Page 8

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Council for the Town of Two Hills held October 24, 2023

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS:

CARRIED

Public Works Report The Public Works Foreman’s Report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski that the sludge survey be presented to Council at a future meeting.

CARRIED MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk that the Public Works report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED Economic Development Officer Report The Economic Development Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Councillor S. Rajoo that the Economic Development Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED

Chief Administrative Officer Report The Chief Administrative Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk that the Chief Administrative Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CARRIED

Chief Financial Officer Report The Chief Financial Officer’s report was provided to Council in advance for their review.

MOVED by Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski that the Chief Financial Officer’s report be acknowledged as presented and incorporated into the minutes.

CORRESPONDENCE: MOVED by Councillor S. Rajoo that the correspondence be acknowledged as presented and filed.

CARRIED NEW BUSINESS: NSWA NSWA Member municipalities have raised concerns about the extent that the Government of Alberta has reduced funding and downloaded costs onto municipal governments.

ABmunis has continually raised these concerns with provincial leaders but until this year, the Government of Alberta has shown limited interest in reversing any of those decisions.

MOVED by Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski to approve contribution of

$867.60 North Saskatchewan Watershed Alliance Per Capita Funding Request for 2024.

CARRIED

SAC Deficit We recently received the year end statement and invoice from SAC MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to have administration draft a letter requesting more information regarding the year end deficit.

CARRIED BYLAWS & POLICIES: Community Standards Bylaw This bylaw has been advertised on the website for public input since the end of May. MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan that Bylaw No. 2023 – 1032 be given a second reading this 25th day of September, 2023.

CARRIED MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk that Bylaw No. 2023 – 1032 be given a third and final reading this 25th day of September, 2023.

CARRIED Economic Development Committee Bylaw This bylaw has been brought back to council for their review MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to table and have administration

November 2023

meet with the Deputy Mayor and Councillor Rajoo to review.

CARRIED COUNCILLOR REPORTS: MOVED by Councillor A. Romaniuk to accept the councillor reports as presented and filed.

CARRIED CLOSED SESSION: MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to go into closed session at 8:23PM. CARRIED MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to come out of closed session at 8:46 PM. CARRIED MOVED by Mayor L. L. Ewanishan to send notice of option to purchase as discussed in closed session.

CARRIED MOVED by Deputy Mayor M. Tarkowski to enter into an agreement to sell the land with a caveat that development must take place within 18 months with a condition that if development is not completed within 18 months a petition for extension may be brought forward to Council.

CARRIED NEXT MEETING: Regular Council Meeting Monday October 10, 2023 at 7:00 P.M.

T: 780-768-2466 F: 780-768-3888

N W 27 - 5 4 - 14 - W 4 , V EGREVILLE , A B , T 9 C 1 R 1 Retained Ownership Investments Custom Feed

WWW.HIGHLANDBEEF.COM

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Page 9

Village of Andrew elects two new councillors

by Ruven Rajoo

T

he residents of Village of Andrew are hoping to see stability following the election of two new councillors Johannus VanVyfeyken and Chris Lupul on the village council.

Following a tumultuous two year period, voters headed to the polls to cast their ballots in a bye-

lection Nov. 13. Three candidates let their name stand: Chris Lupul, Sheila Lupul and Johannus VanVyfeyken. The results were as follows: • • •

Chris Lupul – 33 votes Sheila Lupul – 26 votes Johannus VanVyfeyken – 72 votes

The two successful candidates were sworn in on at the regular Village of Andrew council meeting Nov. 22 joining current Mayor Barry Goertz, Deputy Mayor Tammy Pickett and Counc. Merwin Haight.

TWO HILLS REGIONAL WASTE MANAGEMENT

Two Hills Regional Waste Management Commission Operations Manager Troy Moore Email: landfill@digitalweb.net Phone: (780) 657-3524 Fax: (780) 657-2515

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Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Two Hills School hosts Remembrance Day Commemorative Ceremony Two Hills School hosted a Remembrance Day Commemorative Ceremony November 8. Grades K-grade 6 sang Remembrance Day songs and then all grades laid the wrealths.

St Paul Education Trustee Jan Rajoo, Two Hills School Principal Colin Kupchenko, Two Hills School Assistant Principal Kara Chalke.

Flag Bearer Laura Cripps, School Board Trustee Jan Rajoo, Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary members Heather Forbes and Marg Gorsline, Mayor of Two Hills Leonard Ewanishan, Flag Bearer Lilly Cripps and veterans Wayne Charlebois and Naud Forbes.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Address: 4712 50 Street P.O. Box 630, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0 Phone: 780-657-3395 Fax: 780-657-2158 Email: info@townoftwohills.com

November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 11

Willingdon Remembrance Day Ceremony held at Willingdon Seniors Centre Remembrance Day ceremony for the residents of Willingdon took place at the Willingdon Seniors Centre November 11.

Far Left: George Leonty Left: Fred Yakimchuk Bottom Left: Boian Church choir Bottom Right: Frank Farynowski

New Myrnam School Remembrance Day Ceremony Held on November 8

Students at New Myrnam School paused to remember and honor the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms November 8.

Pathfinder Hall Perogy Supper and Dance a tremendous success

If you have any news items to share with our community or would like to advertise, feel free to contact us.

Sold out crowd at the annual Pathfinder Hall Perogy Supper and Dance November 12. Entertaining the sold out crowd was ‘County Express’.

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Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Agriculture

Feed barley prices are moderating

Feed barley prices have been slipping lower despite the dry conditions across much of Alberta, B.C. and Saskatchewan.

“Barley is the feed grain of choice for most Alberta cattle feeders,” says Neil Blue, provincial crops market analyst with the Alberta government. “Other feed grains are used, but if available and price competitive, barley is the major ingredient in cattle finishing rations. Of course, other animals also are fed significant volumes of barley.”

Barley prices rose to record highs in June 2022 following the 2021 drought, retreated during the improved growing conditions of 2022, then rose in late 2022 with the early and cold start to last winter. Feed barley prices have been slipping lower despite the dry conditions across much of Alberta, B.C. and Saskatchewan.

“There are a number of factors which have contributed to the price moderation of feed barley,” says Blue. “During recent years when barley was in relatively short supply and prices rose to those record levels, livestock feeders sought lower cost rations. Milling wheat was even selling as feed wheat to meet feed demand. Oats and other feedgrains were also substituted for part of rations. Unit trains of imported U.S. corn became more common in the Lethbridge area as logistic challenges of those imports were overcome.

Feeding imported corn has become common when price competitive.”

In 2022, Australia produced a record grain crop. Then, during 2023, China relaxed its restrictive import tariffs against Australian products that began in 2020 during the early Covid period. During the period that Australia was unable to compete with Canada for crop sales to China, Canadian crop exports to China rose, further tightening Canada’s domestic supplies.

However, Blue points out with that Canadian advantage now gone, Canadian barley exports to early November 2023 total just 592,000 tonnes, compared to 816,000 tonnes at this time last year, and 970,000 tonnes in November 2021.

“Positives for the barley price outlook are that 2023 Canadian barley production was limited by a reduced acreage and lack of moisture,” explains Blue. Statistics Canada estimates the 2023 average barley yield at 55 bushels/acre compared to last year’s 70 bushels/acre. Some postharvest yield reports came in better than mid-summer expectations, but total Canadian barley supplies are significantly lower than last crop year.

“The shortage of hay for cattle feeding may lead to more straw-grain rations, with barley, oats and pellets the most likely concentrate source.

Barley prices have dropped, becoming more competitive with world prices, increasing the prospects of improved barley exports as the crop year progresses. Also, malting barley demand remains firm.

“Meanwhile, the cost of imported U.S. corn is a major factor for feed barley prices, keeping in mind that some feeders prefer feeding barley, even at a premium price to corn.

Traditional advice applies to barley marketing this crop year. Know your product, consider your cash flow needs, follow the market situation, and shop widely for the best, financially secure farm gate price,” says Blue.

November 2023

Forage sources

Feeders who realize they are short of forage are trying to secure their winter feed supplies.

“As winter begins, cattle and sheep producers are reassessing their forage needs and sources to ensure that they have adequate feed for the winter-feeding period,” says Neil Blue, provincial crops market analyst with the Alberta government.

Although the early season dry weather helped hay crops to be harvested in good condition, that dry start led to lower than average hay yields. Feeders who realize they are short of forage are trying to secure their winter feed supplies.

“There is some carryover forage supply from the 2022 crop. Depending how that forage has been stored, it still is a feed source with value. It should be purchased and fed with caution, however, because some deterioration has likely occurred.”

Some crop producers silaged some of their annual crops to salvage a crop that was deteriorating from lack of rain. In areas where rainfall was more abundant, there was significant straw produced and baled from this year’s cereal crop harvest.

Straw is used as bedding and cows will eat straw, but supplemental concentrate, whether grain, screenings, pellets, or protein meal, will be needed to supplement that straw.

Producers will need to consider their ration alternatives to determine the least cost, available feeding combinations.

“For those who need to buy hay or straw, there are a few sources to consider for prices and contacts,” points out Blue.

In no order of priority, here are some of those potential sources.

One source is custom hay cutting and baling operators, who may have acquired standing crops or a crop share as part of their business.

Some hay truckers are also hay brokers, who either act as a reseller or as an agent for a hay seller. Another source of hay or pellets are the hay processors. A list of hay processors can be found under “Alfalfa” and “Hay” within the latest publication of the “Alberta Agricultural Processing Industry Directory.

Farming the Web, a project of the Alberta Forage Industry Network, lists some forage for sale. The Kijiji website, with a search of “hay” or “straw” may also have forage listings. Facebook also has sites for hay.

For a general price reference, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation lists historic Alberta quarterly hay and straw prices along with other commodity prices on its resources page.

“Farmers are resilient, and despite the discouraging weather conditions this past season, will find the means to deal with this year’s shortage of quality, reasonably priced feed,” says Blue.

November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Agriculture

Consider the right time for manure or compost application

Artificial intelligence, the food sector and the consumer AI use has accelerated in recent years and significantly transformed numerous industries, including the grocery and food service industries.

Applying manure at the ‘right’ time helps to improve nutrient use efficiency, while reducing nutrient loss and environmental risks.

“Deciding on the ‘right’ time (one of the 4Rs of nutrient stewardship) for application will depend on the situation and will be driven by agronomic, economic, environmental or neighbour considerations,” says Trevor Wallace, nutrient management specialist with the Alberta government.

The ‘right’ or optimal time for application in a field depends on: •

“Artificial intelligence (AI) use in the retail and service sectors has created many opportunities as well as challenges,” says Jeewani Fernando, provincial consumer market analyst with the Alberta government. “Retail experts think AI is going to be a huge disruptor in the grocery business. Research indicates most grocery industry executives agree that AI will revolutionize information sharing and interacting with customers.”

Fernando says the grocery industry uses AI in a number of ways, including: •

•

•

Pricing and promotion – There are AI-driven applications that use historical data to simulate the future and find the optimal price and product mix to grow retails sales.

Business and supply chain optimization – AI can help wholesalers and retailers examine demand and supply to arrange deliveries at the best times and keep the right products on shelves.

Cashier-free payments – With AI in point-of-sale applications, cashierless grocery stores are becoming mainstream.

“AI is also quicky becoming integral to restaurant operations, from streamlining processes to enhancing the customer experience,” adds Fernando. “For example, AI is being used to automate a number of simple and routine tasks in restaurants, which helps cut costs. By embracing AI’s ability to perform these tasks, restaurants can free up employees to do what they do best, which is focusing on guests. And AI-based market-

ing applications can supercharge a restaurant’s efforts to identify new customers and send targeted promotions that translate into business transactions.”

A recent study by Dalhousie University gauged consumer awareness of AI use within the food industry. Among the findings: •

•

•

•

When asked if they were aware of the use of AI in the food industry, 37.9% of Canadians had never heard of it being used.

When asked if they were worried about AI use in the grocery or food service industries, 26.5% of respondents said they were worried about the potential negative impact on jobs.

When asked about the use of AI for personalized recommendations for groceries or restaurant menu items, 23.4% of respondents thought it was a good idea.

The survey revealed Canadian consumers do not want to pay more for food when AI is used.

“Grocers and food service operators are benefiting from using AI-based applications and technologies in their operations, which allow them to deliver more personal, affordable and sustainable experiences for their customers,” says Fernando. “The food industry needs to use AI to meet evolving consumer preferences, behaviours and demands; but it is essential for the food industry to build consumer trust in AI use through ethical practices and transparency.”

Page 13

• • •

operational factors such as cropping plans, past nutrient applications, manure storage capacity and regulatory requirements site-specific factors such as soil conditions and soil nutrient level environmental conditions such as the season, weather and runoff risk potential, and social factors such as neighbours and local events

“To maximize nutrient use efficiency and reduce the risk of nutrient loss, it is best to apply the nutrient source as close to crop needs as possible. This ensures there is adequate time for nutrient release and plant uptake.”

While spring application may be ideal for annual crops, it is not always achievable. In Alberta, the option for spring application is limited by our short growing season. Applying in the spring adds to an already busy season and can delay seeding if manure application is hampered by road restrictions, wet soils or equipment availability. Thus more often manure is applied later in the year, into the fall, when soils are generally drier and more time is available; but the risk for nutrient loss is greater because crops are not actively taking up nutrients and the absence of ground cover increases the risk of runoff potential.

“When possible, apply manure or compost in the late summer or early fall. This allows manure nutrients to infiltrate the soil and stabilize with the soil. The later the manure is applied, the greater the risk of nutrient loss via snowmelt and spring runoff. The risk of nutrient loss from fall applied manure and compost can be reduced by incorporation or injection as well as ensuring application setbacks are followed.”

Several operational changes can be made to widen the window of opportunity for manure or compost application. Through the adoption of new practices, crops or technologies or by working with neighbours, an operation

may find opportunities to expand inseason manure application windows.

“Post seeding or in-crop application of manure or compost are additional windows for manure application. Research is showing that liquid manure dragline application can be done until a corn crop reaches the V-4 leaf stage without harming the corn crop stand.

To find out more about this research, read this article from Ohio State University. Solid/liquid separation technology can be used to separate solids, allowing the liquid portion of the manure to be applied through irrigation systems into growing crops."

Forages or winter cereals can provide additional in-season windows for application as they capture readily available nutrients, reducing the risk of nutrient loss and spreading out the workload.

The least optimal time for manure application is on frozen or snow-covered ground. The risk of nutrient loss is much greater as infiltration is limited and plants are not growing to utilize applied nutrients. This is why new or expanding confined feeding operations and those operations modifying their facilities are required to have a minimum 9 months of manure storage to help eliminate the need for winter spreading. In addition, confined feeding operators must obtain permission from the Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) before applying.

“A full or imminently full manure or compost storage may force an emergency application on frozen or snowcovered ground. If it appears you may have to spread manure on frozen or snow-covered ground, please contact the NRCB field office nearest you to ensure that you are complying with the regulations and minimizing environmental risks and neighbour conflicts.

For more information, check out the NRCB’s fact sheet (PDF, 295 KB).”

Understanding the trade-offs associated with decisions about timing of application is key to ensuring producers are getting the most beneficial return from available manure or compost resources, while minimizing potential environmental impacts and neighbour conflicts.

“Remember no matter what time of year, plan to minimize risks and conflicts, notify the appropriate authorities if required to do so, and ensure you follow manure spreading requirements,” says Wallace.

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 14

Agriculture

November 2023

Winter manure management considerations Preparing for winter manure spreading, even if it is not needed, will save time, money and stress if the need arises.

• • • •

“Extreme weather events, full manure storages, delayed harvest or contractor availability may be some of the most common reasons a farm operator may need to spread manure on frozen and/or snow-covered ground,” says Trevor Wallace, provincial nutrient management specialist with the Alberta government.

“However, when the ground is frozen or snow-covered, the risk of losing applied manure and nutrients in runoff is much greater due to limited soil infiltration, reduced vegetative filtering and increased runoff potential. It is important to be aware of the increased risks and to know your options to manage them.”

Adopt strategies to avoid emergency situations and the need to spread manure on frozen or snow-covered ground. Strategies could include regular maintenance and inspection of the equipment and facilities. Consider increasing the frequency of inspections with aging infrastructure.

Well-planned inspections identify wear, damage and maintenance issues before there is a problem. Create a checklist and a schedule to find weak points in the system so that they are not overlooked, and keep those records should a Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) inspector ask to see them.

“If your storage facilities cannot hold the manure produced through the winter, perhaps it is time to increase your storage capacity,” points out Wallace.

This can be done by constructing

additional storage facility capacity to provide a total 12 to 18 months manure production, which will: • • • •

allow spreading manure at a better time for crops to uptake those nutrients reduce spreading frequency thereby reducing time to deal with logistics avoid emergencies and thus reduce stress and improve your mental health, and improve neighbour and community relationships

Another way to increase capacity for solid manure is to use short-term or temporary manure storage. Under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act (AOPA), manure can be stored in a short-term manure storage for an accumulated total of 7 months over a 3-year period.

“This limitation reduces the risks from storing manure such as nutrient accumulation, runoff and leaching. Site selection can further reduce these impacts and minimize concerns from neighbours and the community.”

If spreading is the only option, the first step to managing risks related to spreading manure on frozen or snow-covered land is to contact the nearest NRCB inspector to discuss the situation. The NRCB may or may not grant permission depending on the reasons for spreading, type of manure and the site-specific circumstances. The NRCB will:

meet and work with you to assess the situation confirm if the field is frozen or snow-covered, if needed help you to decide what steps can be taken to reduce risk, if any, and tell you what specific requirements must be met to ensure spreading will not cause a risk to the environment or inappropriate nuisance as per the regulations under the AOPA

How can you tell if the ground is frozen or snow-covered? Alberta developed a Frozen and Snow-Covered Land Technical Guideline that provides the following tests: •

•

Frozen – the soil is impenetrable as a result of freezing temperatures, or more than one third of the top 15 cm (6 in) contains frozen soil water Snow-covered – more than 50% of the field is covered by an average snow depth of more than 5 cm (2 in) from the ground surface

“If you are still unsure, the NRCB inspector can help you determine if the field is frozen or snow-covered and if so, tell you what is required to get permission to spread. Check out their Applying Manure on Frozen or Snow-Covered Land (PDF, 295 KB) fact sheet for more information.”

If the land is not frozen or snowcovered, then the normal requirements for manure handling and spreading are in effect. See Manure Spreading Regulations.

“You can be proactive by developing a winter manure management plan that minimizes the need to apply manure in the winter and reduces the risk of emergency situations,” says Wallace. “Include a schedule for spreading activities in advance and time those activities to avoid winter spreading. A plan that includes preventative maintenance activities and additional storage solutions further

reduces the likelihood of having to spread in the winter.”

Having a well thought out plan is invaluable when faced with an emergency and therefore should identify suitable fields for emergency spreading by: •

• • • •

collecting and analyzing information about potential manure spreading lands such as soil test records, runoff potential, direction and potential downslope receptors assessing those fields for runoff risk implementing setbacks from water bodies and wells, as well as nearby residences deciding which application methods to use, and mitigating factors to reduce risks (for example, working a field in the fall perpendicular to the direction of slope to slow runoff)

“Preparing for winter spreading, even if you end up not needing to, will save you time, money and stress if the need arises, not to mention, if the NRCB is aware of the plan, decisions on spreading can be made faster. If accepted, the NRCB can respond in an informed way to complaints and concerns should they occur. Planning for winter spreading situations shows that you are a responsible operator, helping to support or improve your industry’s positive image and that you care for your neighbours and community.”

For more information, on the legislative requirements and avoiding manure application on frozen or snow-covered ground, check out the Nutrient Management Webinar to hear from Trevor Wallace, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation’s nutrient management specialist and Kevin Seward, NRCB compliance manager. Alternatively call 310-FARM (3276) or email 310farm@gov.ab.ca.

November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

WWW.VETERANSMEMORIALHIGHWAY36.COM

Page 15

Page 16

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Musidora Hall Presentation Wows Attendees

Mr. Jim Kachmar - President of the Musidora Ukrainian Orthodox Church inside the beautiful building.

Group of University of Alberta students studying Ukrainian History enjoying presentation in the hall.

(Photos and information provided by Diane Laschowski)

Musidora Hall stone structure built in 1943 - the Addition was built in the mid 1960’s the sign above doors says ‘National Enlightment Society of Ivan Kotlarewsky at Musidora'.

L-R Frances Elkow secretary Musidora Hall, Dianne Saskiw, Division 3 County Councillor and Diane Laschowski, President of Musidora Hall.

Canvas backdrops on stage of hall.

Stage backdrop.

If you have any news items to share with our community or would like to advertise, feel free to contact us.

Group of students accompanied by Professor Larisa Sembaliuk Cheladyn and Professor Jaroslaw Balan and event Coordinator Emil Shapka in front of pull down backdrop on the stage showing local donating businesses.

November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 17

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 18

Town of Two Hills Financial Statement Highlights for 2022 2022

2021

$

265,314 $

951,448

$ $ $ $ $

777,739 138,963 598,560 64,377 250,688

$ $ $ $ $

662,863 115,730 150,060 64,377 295,134

FINANCIAL ASSETS Cash (Note 2) Taxes and grants in place of taxes (Note 3) Trade and other receivables (Note 4) Receivable from other governments Land for resale inventory Debt charges recoverable (Note 5)

REVENUES Net municipal taxes User fees and sales of goods Government transfers for operating Concession and franchise Local improvements Local government transfers Penalties and costs of taxes

Rentals Investment income License and permits Other

DEFICIT FROM OPERATIONS

$ 1,850,836

$ 1,950,034

2022

2021

Budget $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

1,048,415 $ 1,308,594 $ 1,048,934 1,054,757 $ 1,003,373 $ 1,049,238 303,386 240,000 250,308 109,678 62,000 38,218 750 5,500 300

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

561,258 271,518 231,396 95,000 66,454 36,900 8,234 5,165 572

$

3,113,312 $ 3,588,464

$

(997,491) $

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

299,666 235,137 204,203 282,912 27,852 38,220 7,244 5,640 300

$ 3,199,346

(174,857) $

(107,064)

OTHER INCOME Government transfers for Capital

$

999,691 $

334,982 $

688,969

ANNUAL SURPLUS

$

2,200 $

160,125 $

581,905

ACCUMULATED SURPLUS BEGINNING OF YEAR ACCUMULATED SURPLUS END OF YEAR

ANNUAL SURPLUS Purchase of tangible capital assets Decrease (increase) in inventory for consumption Amortization of tangible capital assets Decrease (increase) in portfolio investments

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS NET FINANCIAL DEBT BEGINNING OF YEAR NET FINANCIAL DEBT END OF YEAR

LIABILITIES

(664,994) $

(784,430) $

(890,444)

-

$

36,731 $

(26,073)

-

$

631,525 $

589,915

-

$

(134,400) $

(179,200)

$

(664,994) $

(250,574) $

(505,802)

$

(662,794) $

(90,449) $

76,103

$ (2,367,555) $ (2,367,555) $ (2,443,658) $ (3,030,349) $ (2,458,004) $ (2,367,555)

$ $ $ $ $

2022

2021

354,578 238,876 $

179,417

259,284 37,876 112,956 122,234 3,183,036

$ 251,995 $ 40,059 $ 110,694 $ 293,762 $ 3,441,662

$ 4,308,840 $ 4,317,589

Roads, streets, walks, lighting Water supply and distribution Administration Curling rink operation Garbage collection Family and community services Protective services Legislative Sanitary sewer Arena operations Community services Hall operations Parks and recreation

Library Storm sewer Bylaws enforcement

2022

Budget

EXPENSES $

2021

1,554,302 $ 1,087,556 $

988,640

$ $ $ $

720,482 658,472 138,945 128,524

$ $ $ $

806,183 691,485 279,890 139,451

$ $ $ $

653,395 654,434 152,162 122,568

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

154,824 80,629 115,025 64,479 79,711 87,377 252,495 41,322 30,316 3,900

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

139,270 114,144 111,942 100,212 82,366 58,601 53,930 48,069 29,349 20,873 -

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

158,244 47,711 106,066 101,157 87,866 72,576 48,283 60,297 30,645 20,873 1,493

$ $

4,110,803 $ 3,763,321 $ 3,306,410

Budget

2022

2021

1,110,000 $ 350,000 $ 75,000 $

1,109,460 $ 373,080 $ 78,767 $

945,714 292,915 66,568

14,500 $

14,461 $

12,520

10,000 $

10,150 $

8,698

800 $ 120 $ 1,560,420 $

832 $ 120 $ 1,586,870 $

697 98 1,327,210

215,000 $ 64,000 $ 279,000 $

214,717 $ 63,559 $ 278,276 $

214,717 63,559 278,276

TAXATION

Real property taxes $ Business taxes $ Linear property taxes $ Federal grants in place $ 15,381,495 $ 15,381,495 $ 14,799,590 of property taxes $ Provincial grants in place of property taxes $ $ 15,383,695 $ 15,541,620 $ 15,381,495 Machinery and equipment $ Farm land Budget $ 2022 2021 Total Taxes and Grant in Lieu $ (Unaudited) 160,125 $ 581,905 $ 2,200 $ REQUISITIONS $

$ $

Bank indebtedness Accounts payable Current portion of long term debt (Note 8) Deposit liabilities (Note 5) Funds held in trust (Note 6) Deferred income (Note 7) Long term debt (Note 8)

November 2023

Alberta School Foundation Fund Eagle Hill Foundation

$ $ $

$ 279,000 $ 278,276 278,276 $ $ 1,281,420 $ 1,308,594 $ 1,048,934

Check out our website at www.twohillschronicle.com. This issue and all previous issues of the Two Hills Regional Chronicle are available to view or download.

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Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Page 19

Town of Two Hills Financial Statement Highlights for 2022 Unrestriced Surplus Restricted Surplus

BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR Excess of revenues over expenses Restricted funds used for operations Current year funds used for TCA Annual amortization expense Long term debt repaid BALANCE: END OF YEAR

$

1,067,522

$ $ $ $

160,125 (784,430) 631,525 (251,338)

$

7,757,055

Schedule of Government Transfers Year Ended December 31, 2022 TRANSFERS FOR OPERATING Federal Government Provincial Government Other Local Government

Budget

2022

2021

$ $ -

350,000 $ 250,000 $ -

283,115 278,143 $ -

299,666

$

600,000 $

561,258 $

299,666

Total Government Transfers

400,000 $ -

334,982 $ $ $ -

640,669 282,911 48,301

$

400,000 $

334,982 $

971,881

$

1,000,000 $

896,240 $

1,271,547

$

Statement of Cash Flows Year Ended December 31, 2022 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Annual surplus Item not affecting cash: Amortization of property, plant and equipment Changes in non-cash working capital: Trade and other receivable Tax and grants in place of taxes Inventory for consumption Accounts payable Deposit liabilities Receivable from other governments Deferred income Funds held in trust Cash flow from operating activities CAPITAL Purchase of tangible capital assets Cash flow used by capital FINANCING ACTIVITIES Portfolio investments Long term Investments Proceeds from long term financing Repayment of long term debt Cash flow used by financing activities

Cash - beginning of year CASH (DEFICIENCY) END OF YEAR CASH CONSISTS OF:

Cash Bank indebtedness

2022

2021

$

160,125 $

581,905

$ $

631,525 $ 791,650 $

589,915 1,171,820

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

(23,233) $ (114,876) $ 36,730 $ 59,461 $ (2,183) $ (448,500) $ (171,528) $ 2,262

(31,734) (145,219) (26,073) (125,101) (15,229) 211,318 (154,562) -

$ $

(661,867) $ 129,783 $

(286,600) 885,220

$ $

(784,430) $ (784,430) $

(890,444) (890,444)

$ $

(134,400) $ (327) $ (251,338) $ (386,065) $

(179,200) 356,160 (237,474) (60,514)

$ (1,040,712) $

(65,738)

$ $

$

951,448 $

1,017,186

$

(89,264) $

951,448

$ $ $

265,314 $ (354,578) (89,264) $

712,097 -

$ 13,601,876

$ $ $

$ 13,276,967

2022

-

$ 15,381,495

$ 15,381,495

$

$

784,430 (631,525) 251,338

$ 53,167,374

2021

-

160,125

$ 74,201,396

-

581,905

$ 76,949,242

Schedule of Consolidated Expenses by Object Year Ended December 31, 2022

TRANSFERS FOR CAPITAL Provincial Government Other Local Government Federal Government

$

Equity in tangible capital assets

951,448 951,448

Budget

EXPENDITURES

BY OBJECT Salaries, wages, and benefits Materials, goods, supplies and utilities Contracted and general services Amortization of tangible capital assets Transfers to Individuals and organizations Purchases from other governments Interest on capital long term debt Bank charges and short term interest Provision for allowances Total Expenditures

2022

2021

$

985,198 $

1,024,711 $

967,740

$

933,049 $

875,430 $

855,283

$

573,429 $

794,881 $

415,520

$

600,000 $

631,525 $

589,915

$

272,022 $

183,647 $

229,837

$

130,524 $

129,517 $

124,800

$

118,044 $

118,044 $

120,519

$

2,000 $

5,436 $

1,943

$

900 $

130 $

853

$ 17,947,652 $ 17,577,092 $ 15,278,523

OUR SERVICES NOTICE TO READERS Our trained and professional staff can assist you will all your compilation needs.

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Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 20

November 2023

County of Two Hills Financial Statement Highlights 2022

FINANCIAL ASSETS Cash and temporary investments (Note 2) Taxes and grants in place of taxes receivable (Note 3) Receivables from other governments Trade and other receivables Long-term investments (Note 4) Debt charges recoverable (Note 5)

Net municipal taxes (Schedule 3) Sales of goods and services Government transfers for operating (Schedule 4) Investment income Penalties and costs of taxes Licenses and permits Other

$ 19,906,769 $ 21,336,746 $ $ $ $ $

404,135 45,847 1,968,016 42,841 250,688

Budget (Unaudited)

$ $

$ 348,890 $ 231,778 $ 1,421,525 $ 42,946 $ 295,134

$22,618,296 $23,677,019 $17,421,769 $19,568,274

NET FINANCIAL ASSETS REVENUES

2021

2022

2021

7,177,384 $ 7,202,681 $ 7,273,167 4,228,789 $ 4,505,415 $ 4,139,921 459,528 314,393 391,734 68,664 185,226

$ 2,501,128 $ 164,007 $ 211,373 $ 81,392 $ 372,250

$ 12,386,866 $ 13,127,641

$ 14,743,238

$ $ $ $ $

500,893 168,200 202,400 65,200 44,000

$ $ $ $ $

SHORTFALL OF REVENUES OVER

EXPENSES BEFORE TRANSFERS FOR CAPITAL Government transfers for capital (Schedule 5) SHORTFALL OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSES ACCUMULATED SURPLUS BEGINNING OF YEAR ACCUMULATED SURPLUS END OF YEAR

SHORTFALL OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSES

$ (5,780,453) $ (4,724,309) $ (3,414,783) $

1,103,188 $

1,159,010 $

(782,211)

$ 73,419,185 $ 73,419,185 $ 74,201,396 $ 68,741,920 $ 69,853,886 $ 73,419,185

Budget (Unaudited)

2022

$ (4,677,265) $ (3,565,299) $

EXPENSES Legislative Administration Protective services Roads, streets, walks, lighting Water supply and distribution Waste management Family and community support Agriculture services Subdivision land development Parks and recreation Library Gas Utility

2,434,602 $

2,357,512 $

1,283,264

-

$

(172,970) $

12,793

-

$

(765,748) $

431,863

-

$

(938,718) $

444,656

2,434,602 $

1,418,794 $

1,727,920

$ (2,242,663) $ (2,146,505) $

945,709

$ Use (acquisition) of prepaid expenses Use (acquisition) of inventory for consumption

$

$ 19,568,274 $ 19,568,274 $ 18,622,565 $ 17,325,611 $ 17,421,769 $ 19,568,274

$ $ $ $

1,791,446 $ 214,997 $ 250,691 $ 1,494,454 $

1,093,087 197,290 244,597 1,528,873

$ $ $

844,019 $ 250,688 $ 350,232

749,764 295,134 -

Budget (Unaudited)

2022

2021

$ $ $

369,510 $ 1,770,628 $ 661,924 $

327,335 $ 1,871,059 $ 605,456 $

$

9,491,842 $

9,153,145 $ 10,124,954

$ $

662,693 $ 366,693 $

681,818 $ 399,888 $

821,585 325,804

$ $

125,776 $ 702,634 $

125,776 $ 602,822 $

122,776 527,774

$ $ $ $

71,402 262,672 41,008 3,640,892

$ $ $ $

60,180 229,311 41,008 3,754,152

$ $ $ $

289,847 1,856,357 650,282

50,909 221,761 43,937 3,122,035

$ 17,947,652 $ 17,577,092 $ 15.278.523

Residential land and improvements Farmland Non-residential land and improvements Machinery and equipment Linear property

2021 (782,211)

2021

$ 5,196,527 $ 4,108,745

2,632,572

Acquisition of tangible capital $ (1,990,600) $ (1,751,445) $ (2,103,586) assets Proceeds on disposal of 894,810 $ $ 1,265,500 $ 360,532 tangible capital assets (Gain) / Loss on disposal of $ 247,359 $ (59,894) tangible capital assets Amortization of tangible $ 3,159,702 $ 2,782,942 $ 2,859,714 capital assets Amortization added to tangible $ 183,846 $ 226,498 capital assets

INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET FINANCIAL ASSETS NET FINANCIAL ASSETS BEGINNING OF YEAR NET FINANCIAL ASSETS END OF YEAR

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Employee benefit obligations (Note 6) Deposit liabilities (Note 7) Deferred revenue (Note 8) Due to Two Hills Regional Waste Management Commission (Note 9) Long term debt (Note 10) Provision for gravel pit reclamation

Budget (Unaudited)

TAXATION $ (4,677,265) $ (3,565,299) $

2022

LIABILITIES

2022

2021

$ $

2,953,499 $ 1,919,503 $

2,964,916 $ 1,932,545 $

2,693,208 1,828,345

$

397,710 $

611,360 $

339,878

$ $

44,154 $ 4,165,016 $

532,949 $ 3,463,447 $

47,080 4,616,590

$

9,479,882 $

9,505,217 $

9,525,101

$ $

1,766,411 $ 523,920 $

1,766,449 $ 523,920 $

1,717,567 520,776

$

12,167 $

12,167 $

13,591

$

2,302,498 $

2,302,536 $

2,251,934

$

7,177,384 $

7,202,681 $

7,273,167

REQUISITIONS Alberta School Foundation Fund Eagle Hill Foundation Designated Industrial Property

NET MUNICIPAL TAXES

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November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 21

County of Two Hills Financial Statement Highlights Unrestriced Surplus

Internally Restricted Surplus

Equity in tangible capital assets

2021

51,884,110 $

73,419,185 $

74,201,396

BALANCE, BEGINNING OF YEAR

$

9,483,154 $

Excess (shortfall) of revenues over expenses Unrestricted funds designated for future use Restricted funds used for operations Current year funds used for tangible capital assets Disposal of tangible capital assets Annual amortization expense

$ $ $ $ $

(3,565,299) 2,165,300 (1,751,445) 1,142,169 2,968,788

$ (2,165,300) -

$ $ 1,751,445 $ (1,142,169) $ (2,968,788)

(3,565,299) $ -

(782,211) -

CHANGE IN ACCUMULATED SURPLUS

$

957,513

$ (2,165,300)

$ (2,357,512) $

(3,565,299) $

(782,211)

BALANCE: END OF YEAR (Note 13)

$

10,440,667

$

$ 49,526,598

Consolidated Schedule of Government Transfers for Operating Year Ended December 31, 2022

Budget (Unaudited)

TRANSFERS FOR OPERATING Provincial Federal grants operating Local government grants - operating

2022

$ $

491,693 $ 4,200 $

$

5,000

455,729 $ 3,799 $ -

TRANSFERS FOR CAPITAL Provincial Federal Local government

2022

2,499,356 1,772 -

2021

$ $ $

889,000 $ 173,550 $ 40,000 $

951,675 $ 173,550 $ 33,785 $

2,293,715 290,830 48,027

$

2,182,100 $

1,870,246 $

2,039,910

Consolidated Schedule of Expenses by Object Year Ended December 31, 2022

Budget (Unaudited)

EXPENSES Salaries, wages and benefits Contracted and general services Purchases from other governments Materials, goods, and utilities Provision for allowances Transfers to other governments Transfers to local boards and agencies Bank charges and short-term interest Amortization of tangible capital assets (Gain) / Loss on sale of tangible capital assets

2022

9,886,621

2021

$

5,763,088 $

4,991,410 $

4,876,263

$

2,255,864 $

2,489,696 $

2,318,299

$

2,087,254 $

2,341,541 $

1,779,275

$

4,432,671 $

4,332,786 $

5,831,574

$

165,000 $

376,375 $

198,252

$

132,000 $

132,000 $

190,000

Budget (Unaudited)

2022

2021

$ $ $

2,747,889 $ 2,087,154 $ 660,735 $

2,967,836 $ 2,341,541 $ 626,295 $

2,406,822 1,779,275 627,547

Other sales and service Penalties and interest income Profit on capital construction RMO station operating grant Service charges

$

96,200 $

106,625 $

192,869

$

14,200 $

35,773 $

20,597

$

127,366 $

156,285

$ $

12,000 $ 491,000 $

12,000 $ 504,900 $

12,000 517,350

$

632 070 $

753,378 $

806,411

$ $ $

240,675 $ 10,000 $ 22,870 $

233,261 $ 240 $ 13,871 $

239,986 30,662 14,180

$ $ $ $ $ $ $

57,985 $ 26,200 $ 59,850 $ 16,000 $ 109,850 $ 10,500 $ 52,100 $

60,653 $ 24,703 $ 34,749 $ 15,613 $ 162,367 $ 11,725 $ 55,152 $

56,273 20,702 41,542 9,975 21,715 3,096 51,596

$ $ $

138,670 $ 739,038 $ 70,000 $

119,234 $ 641,814 $ 52,953 $

117,474 670,501 65,058

$

$ (13,725) 1,553,738 $ 1,412,610 $

1,342,760

$

(279,603) $

-

EXPENSES Amortization Bad debt expense Council remuneration Insurance, permits, damage claims Memberships, dues, fees Office supplies Professional fees Repair and maintenance Travel and training Utilities Vehicle and equipment costs Wages and benefits Materials and supplies Loss on sale of tangible capital asset

$

159,008 $

145,173 $

151,487

$

12,732 $

12,668 $

13,051

EXPENSES

$

3,159,702 $

2,782,942 $

2,859,714

$

247,359 $

(59,894)

$ 18,167,319 $ 17,851,950 $ 18,158,021

$ 73,419,185

REVENUE PURCHASES GROSS PROFIT OTHER OPERATING REVENUES

EXCESS (SHORTFALL) OF REVENUES OVER

-

$ 69,853,886

Statement of Operating Revenue And Expenses For The Gas Utility Year Ended December 31, 2022

2021

$ 500,893 $ 459,528 $ 2,501,128 Consolidated Schedule of Government Transfers for Operating Year Ended December 31, 2022

Budget (Unaudited)

12,051,921 $

2022

LONG TERM DEBT Debentures recoverable (Note 5)

349 $

2022

183,888

2021

$ 250,688 $ 295,134

Principal and interest repayments are as follows: Principal Interest 2023 $ 46,142 $ 8,188 $ 2024 $ 47,904 $ 6,426 $ 2025 $ 49,734 $ 4,596 $ 2026 $ 29,356 $ 2,695 $ 2027 $ 7,716 $ 2,056 $ Thereafter $ 69,836 $ 8,339 $

Total 54,330 54,330 54,330 32,051 9,772 78,175

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Visit our website at $ 250,688 $ 32,300 $ 282,968 www.twohillschronicle.com to Full Financial Statements are available on the view or download this issue. County of Two Hills website at www.thcounty.ab.ca.

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 22

Aunt Niri’s Fun Corner

From my corner Gearing up for Christmas

Hello precious readers, Can you believe that it is just a little over a month until Christmas!!!!

Yippee!!!

I cannot emphasise just how much I have looked forward to Christmas all of my life. The awesome season where one feels like a little kid again….buying gifts, wrapping them up, being secretive regarding the presents and the fun-filled events that you are planning for your friends and family, the meal planning, and just good, old-fashioned family time.

As I sit here, I ponder my Christmas 2023. Since turning 50, earlier this year, my whole perspective has changed regarding Christmas and celebrations in general. Why do I

put myself under so much of pressure for just one day, or a few days, at the most?

Is it all really worth it? Does it really matter that the roast and its accompaniments come out perfect, the desserts and puddings be sublime, or that the day be a picture perfect memory in the making???

A resounding, emphatic YES!!!!!

It does! Every day does!!

I look forward to family time, with bickering, banter, and giggles. I treasure watching my family devour the meals I have prepared with love and adoration for each one of them.

I am mesmerised by their expressions as they open the gifts that I have thoughtfully purchased, and I sigh with immense gratitude and contentment when everyone dozes off with full bellies and a content expression on each of their precious faces.

I live for family, I treasure each one, and I am fully aware of the blessings that I have from Abba Father.

Are you???

Until our next issue, Love ya, Niri

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Visit our website at www.twohillschronicle.com to view or download this issue.

November 2023

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

November 2023

Page 23

Business Cards

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

TWO HILLS OFFICE #5 5002 Diefenbaker Ave, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0 www.ncubelandry.com Tel: 780 - 657 - 2492

AUTOGLASS

AUTO SALES

ELKOW ENTERPRISES

TWO HILLS AUTOGLASS

CAR WASH AND STORAGE

Glenn Wiebe

WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT OR REPAIR

Sales Representative, Maddigan Chrysler

Contact Dennis Elkow (780) 603-8792

glenn@maddiganchrysler.com

CALL HENRY (780) 603-3678

www.maddigandodge.com

CONSTRUCTION

www.loewenconstruction.org

www.river-rock.ca

4723 45 Avenue, Vegreville, AB T9C 1L1

Pit location: SW17-54-11-W4

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • AGRICULTURAL

Pick up or delivery, please call to arrange as the site is only open on an as required basis.

(780) 632-3422 Call us for all your Concrete needs

Email: ben@loewenconstruction.org

vantagebuilders.ca

ELECTRICAL

FARM EQUIPMENT

Tel: (780) 603 - 8973

CARWASH

FUNERAL HOME #3, 5024 47th Ave, Two Hills, AB P.O. Box 298, Two Hills, AB T0B 4K0

P: 780 - 483-3987 FLOORING

LAWYERS

PLUMBING

Terry Prockiw Lawyer

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS ( INCLUDING FARM LAND ), WILLS AND ESTATES & CORPORATE MATTERS .

CONTACT US NOW ON: TEL: (780) 656 - 1113 FAX: (780) 230 - 0636 EMAIL: ASSISTANT@PROCKIWLAW.CA

SENIOR CARE

SEPTIC SERVICES ABE'S SEPTIC SERVICES

"YOU DUMP IT, WE PUMP IT"

Port-O-Potty Rentals

Abe Wiebe

780-210-0431

Two Hills Regional Chronicle

Page 24

November 2023

MLS#4299292

MLS#4335534

MLS#4277192

MLS#4263579

$69 500

$159 500

$17 500

$159 900

4306 51 ST, Two Hills

1 BED

1 BATH

Starter Home on Large Lot

MLS#4339264

$188 000

5208 50 AV, Innisfree

2 BED

2 BATH

MLS#4362907

MLS#4364347

MLS#4339133

$484 000

$164 900

2.1 Acres of Scenic Property with 1343 sq. ft. Cottage

MLS#4339909

$45 000

Vacant Land

3 Fully Serviced Adjoining Lots (2-64' x 120' & 1-65.35 x 120')

2 BATH

Great home for young family

11,250 sq ft Lot

5206-5208-5210 54 ST Two Hills

4 BED

11,218 sq. ft. Vacant Lot

29 562007 RNG RD 113 County of Two Hills

2 BATH

Vacant Land

5102 52 ST, Willingdon

1,100 sq. ft. Home

4702 51AV, Two Hills

3 BED

5203 46 ST, Two Hills

$329 000

4407 50 AV Two Hills

SW-14-56-13 W-4TH, County of Two Hills

Large 7200 Sq. Ft. Lot

160 Acres of Agricultural Land

MLS#4339906

MLS#4353497

MLS#4365312

$19 500

$199 000

$119 500

2 BED

1 BATH

5210 54 ST Two Hills

Vacant Land

8624 Sq. Ft. Lot Gives You Plenty of Room to Develop

3 BED

2 BATH

4839 51 AV Lavoy, AB

3 BED

2 BATH

Spacious 6250 sq. ft. Fenced Yard Features Enclosed Gazebo

Agricultural

4719 61 AV Vegreville, AB

3 BED

1 BATH

Value Priced, 2010, 3 Bedroom, 1070 sq. ft. Half Duplex

FEATURED

$599 500

5702 46 AV Two Hills, AB

MLS#4357310

MLS#4344700

$214 500

$235 000

5034 50 AV, Willingdon

Commercial

3200 sq ft Metal Clad Shop

5710 44A ST Vegreville, AB

4 BED

3 BATH

Includes Grassed/Garden Area, Storage Shed and 2 Car Heated Garage

MLS#4348730

$199 900 4925 50 ST Andrew, AB

3 BED

MLS#4364407

1 BATH

2.175 Acres of Land with a Well-Maintained Home

Homewise Realty 5013 48 Street, Vegreville, AB T9C 1T9

Cell: 780-603-0944

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!.

5 BED

5 BATH

One of Best Buys on an Executive Style Home on 8.13 Acres of Land. . Gorgeous Setting as You Drive Up a Paved Lane Surrounded by Large Shade Trees. Triple Car Garage Allows for Plenty of Parking & Space for Your Collector Car. A Must View Property!

Priced Below Assessed Value

Ralph Soldan Realtor

Email: ralph@keyrealtor.ca www.homewisehomes.ca