Paige Siegel receives Jardine Bursary
BY DIANA WALKER
Paige Siegel is in her second year of the Physical and Occupational Therapist Program at Medicine Hat College. After completing her diploma, she hopes to transfer to the University of Lethbridge and obtain a Bachelor of Therapeutic Recreation. After that, she will apply for her Masters to become a certified Physical or Occupational Therapist, completing 6-7 years of school.
“This will allow me to help people recover and improve their physical function and provide me with many different career opportunities,” says Paige.
Paige has always wanted to work with kids and provide care to those in need, especially in a small town where access to health care is often limited.
“I grew up on a farm, near the small town of Oyen,” adds Paige, “and always appreciate the sense of community and involvement it has given me.”
Throughout high school, Paige volunteered extensively at the high school, with FCSS, at local summer camps and with Oyen Skating Club where she gained valuable skills showing her a positive impact of community involvement. This past year, she volunteered with Oyen Figure Skating Club during skating lessons. She is a certified Canskate Coach and plans to coach in the future. During the Big Country Agricultural Society’s 2023 New Year’s Eve event, she sold raffle tickets with plans to volunteer at more BCAS events and within the community. During the summer, she worked at the Oyen Daycare and enjoyed engaging with the community
and working with children.
“My academics have remained a priority as I left high school and entered college,” concludes Paige. “I have maintained a GPA of 4.0 and have been placed on the President’s honour roll for the entirety of the first year. I strive to keep this high average moving forward by focusing on my studies and working hard.”
Paige sent an update the end of December. “I have completed the first semester of my second year. I have enjoyed
all of my classes, which have involved many labs and community experiences such as visiting the hospital and other organizations within Medicine Hat. In January, I am starting my first of three clinical placements. This will give me hands-on experiences in the areas of occupational therapy and physical therapy in many different settings, including a hospital, private clinic, and long-term care facility. I am looking forward to beginning my practicums and learning from real-life experiences!”
Paige Siegel receives one of three $1000 Jardine Bursaries from Diana Walker, representing the bursary committee including Cheryl Ball and Sharon Dahl.
Margaret Berg wins Oyen Lions 50/50
BY DIANA WALKER
At their organization meeting October 8, the Oyen Town Council appointed me as one of their representatives on the Big Country Regional Recycling Society for another 3-year term. I appreciate the vote of confidence. If you have concerns about recycling or Oyen’s transfer station, send me an email at fwalker1@telus.net
Margaret Berg $10,000 richer: The Oyen Lions 50/50 draw took place on December 31, 2024 at the Big Country Agriculture Society’s Crossroads Centre at 11:30 p.m. following a very success-
ful Happy Bucking New Year’s Eve bull riding competition. Congratulations to Margaret (Lijdsman) Berg of Medicine Hat, winner of the $10,000 cash. The Oyen Lions really appreciated all those who helped sell the tickets. The profits earned from this endeavor will help the Lions support the many projects and community appeals that they deal with every year.
Big Country Agricultural Society’s Happy Bucking New Year 50/50 of $2,415 was won by Tami-Jo Brewin of Taber. BCAS proceeds from the 50/50 will go toward purchase of gates and panel for future events.
Residents ring in the new year
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello, everyone. Hopefully everyone had a wonderful Christmas Holiday with family and friends. The weather was great for some outdoor activities and travelling. Christmas Eve, Santa arrived at the Lodge and left Christmas Stockings on the residents doors filled with goodies. Some residents went out to
BUFFALO NEWS
Rescheduled concert taking place late February
BY LORRAINE MONKMAN
I take this opportunity to wish all my readers a very happy new year including good health and good fortune. We hope for a good crop and the same good calf prices.
Marg and Simon Schonhofer are home again after spending a week on the west coast with family during Christmas. Upon their arrival home, they learned of the devastating loss of the resort owned and operated by their
Lorraine Monkman
friends Mr. and Mrs. Gordie Graham. The Grahams have been to Buffalo many times. We are so sorry for your great loss. Mark your calendars for February 28 when Buffalo Ag Society will present Jake Mathews in concert at the Buffalo Hall. Ham supper will be served at 6 p.m. with the show at 7:00 p.m. Tickets purchased for the show in December will be honoured. Contact Ag Society members to purchase tickets. Come out and enjoy a visit with neighbours.
spend Christmas with their families and some families came in to the Lodge to spend some time with residents.
Monday December 30th morning started with exercises followed by domino’s. in the afternoon was bingo.
Tuesday morning was the regular bus run downtown and exercises. Tuesday afternoon the residents
celebrated New Years Eve. Champagne and orange juice, wine or coffee was served along with sausage, cheese, crackers, devilled eggs, cookies and chocolate treats. The residents sang a couple of new years songs and enjoyed socializing to ring in the New Year.
Dianne was away January 1st -3rd, so there was no activities. Hopefully everyone rang in the New Year with love, happiness and cheers to a fresh start. The Oyen Lodge residents and staff would like to wish everyone a year filled with happiness, success and good health. Every day is a new beginning, embrace the new year with a heart full of hope and cherished moments. Happy New Year!
OYEN LODGE NEWS
Dianne Spath
OPINION:
Goal for 2025: seek common sense solutions
BY JOAN JANZEN
If you’ve set goals for 2025, you’re not alone. A man told his friend he decided to quit smoking but then asked his buddy for a cigarette. “I thought you made a resolution not to smoke,” his buddy said.
“I’m in phase one of quitting,” his friend responded. “I’ve quit buying cigarettes.”
Another woman decided to start knitting. “It’s a lot like meditating, but I end up with a sweater afterwards,” she said.
If you listen to the news you may notice many Canadians have a goal to see an election as soon as possible in 2025, while the Prime Minister appears to have a goal to do everything possible to prevent it from happening. While rising costs seem beyond our control, doing all we can to maintain our physical and mental health is a goal worth pursuing.
In his New Year’s video, Dr. Suneel Dhand expressed optimism for 2025 because social media platforms are enabling doctors to discuss things that were previously ignored.
As he listens to his patients, those in their 80s recall a time when doctors spent time with their patients and gave them common-sense advice. He said
tempt to move away from anything natural and replace it with a “pill for every ill.” He didn’t negate the need for medications but suggested there are often alternate common-sense solutions.
He showed a video clip of two Canadian surgeons accusing Dr. Dhand of being an extremist simply because he encourages the use of natural supplements and believes in their benefits.
“Natural supplements are based on ingredients that people have been consuming for thousands of years without causing any harm,” he added. “Why is the medical establishment so scared of natural ways to combat illness?”
Simple recommendations such as taking regular walks, exercise, spending time outdoors or connecting with community can do so much to improve one’s mental and physical health.
In a recent publication, Dr. Dhand referred to an article published by CNN that said a new generation of climate doctors is being trained. Dr. Dhand said medical journals are full of articles on climate and healthcare, and medical schools are rushing to include climate change in their curricula while basic courses on nutrition and metabolic health remain glaringly absent.
“Ultimately, it’s the patients who pay the price for these misplaced priorities,” he noted. He observed the system is
itize ideological campaigns over fixing what’s broken.”
There are plenty of examples of attempts to fix what’s not broken. Journalist Brian Lilley recently interviewed Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, who spoke about a methane-reducing feed additive which can be given to cows to reduce methane emissions (burps and farts). He said research for this additive was funded because of the pressure placed on the livestock industry to reduce methane emissions. Meanwhile, Dr. Charlebois said they have no idea if it impacts the quality of beef or milk or if farmers are using it since the livestock industry is self-regulated.
John Campbell is another popular medical professional who interviewed Dr. David Grimes, a medical researcher, teacher, author and physician. Dr. Grimes conducted a personal study where he found 85 to 95 percent of a group of 5000 patients had vitamin D deficiency.
“So many of their illnesses revolved around vitamin D deficiency,” he said. “People suffer from illnesses that are so readily correctable.”
Vitamin D also plays a vital role in vaccinations. He said a vaccination produces an immune response that gobbles up and utilizes vitamin D. “Vaccinations knock down vitamin D levels, and then with each subsequent vaccination, the levels decrease,” he said. When giving vaccinations, you basically need vitamin D to produce the immune re-
sponse; without it, the vaccine won’t be effective.
Throughout his research, Dr. Grimes also observed that treatment for cancer won’t work properly unless someone’s vitamin D levels are adequate. Those that had a positive response had adequate Vitamin D, he observed.
Dr. Dhand stated the obvious: vitamin D is crucial, but we live in a cold climate where it’s difficult to get adequate amounts from the sun. “Yet the medical establishment looks on it with distrust,” he said.
Vitamin D is essential for immunity. “And without good immunity, you don’t have good health,” Dr. Campbell added.
Meanwhile Canadians are eagerly listening to the advice given by medical experts like Dr. Dhand and John Campbell. This is evident by numerous comments posted by Canadians after their videos. Here are a just a few.
“I am a retired researcher and investigator. I find Dr. Dhand extremely credible.”
“I’ve been a nurse for 45 years. You speak the truth. Keep it up.”
“You are excellent at telling us the facts without a strong opinion or telling us how to think.”
As the new year begins, we can be like the fellow who had a goal to stop smoking. Phase one is to stop buying into information that promotes a pill for every ill instead of common sense solutions.
Pop89: Lighten up
BY MADONNA HAMEL
In my last column, I was still undecided about my “word of the year.”
A month before January, my siblings and I began considering which word we’d like to bring with us into the new year, a word representing an aspired attribute or attitude. I was toying with Grace or Acceptance but finally landed on Light. “Let there be light!” Yes, yes, how we need it!
pealing idea. (Those were the olden days of books and the Dewey decimal system and exciting random discoveries while researching and searching in the stacks.)
I am thankful that I live in a place where, thanks to all this sky, even on a grey day, Light prevails; Val Marie is often the sunniest spot in the country. And my cacti can attest to that. How I made it through those dreary, rainy university days on the West Coast is beyond me. Actually, when I think of it, endless monotonous rainfall (not the dramatic storms of the prairie) is exactly the atmosphere one needs to make spending one’s days and days in a library an ap-
This year I am focussing on buoyancy and illumination, two aspects of Light. I want to “lighten up” in a climate of tension, side-taking and far too many dark hours spent fuming over presumed slights and prejudices. May I be light-hearted, may I not expect the worst but entertain the best in everyone, including myself. Just yesterday, I heard a psychologist say that “in the absence of information, people have a tendency to connect the dots in the most dark and pathological ways.” I need to gather more information before my dots add up to a demon rather than another dazed bozo like myself, doing the best I can at any given moment.
Does this mean I believe that, deep down, people mean well? I don’t know. But I do know that when I react by ranting and suspecting the worst in others, I neglect my better angels. It’s not fun holding grudges, feeding resentments, strengthening the habit of hurt. It’s heavy. Life becomes exhausting and my world the size of a postage stamp.
And while on the subject of “gathering infor-
mation,” here’s a quote attributed to Herbert Spencer that bears repeating: “There is a principle which is a bar against all information, which is proof against all arguments and which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance — that principle is contempt prior to investigation.”
As grace would have it, the theme of this year’s daily meditations on a favourite website is: “Salt and Light.” The term is a reference to Matthew 5: 13-16: “You are the Light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives Light to everyone in the house.” The idea here is not to toot your own horn or build up your reputation. It’s to shine on others. Unfortunately, that quote was turned into a description of American exceptionalism. Regan first described America as a shining city on a hill - a beacon and example to the rest of us. The words have become less about responsibility, charity, and goodwill and more about the winning team.
The second part, the bit about don’t hide your Light under a bushel, was meant, once again, as a call to spread warmth and heat to all our fellow men and women. To be Light is not to shine any brighter than anyone else but to help lighten someone’s load, take the time to shed Light on a frightening and troubling situation before jumping to conclusions, inspire action and confidence in others, assuring them through actions not just talk, that the Light has not been conquered by the dark. At least, not yet.
I recall a grade-school teacher reassuring us that to bring Light into a room you simply need to light a candle. But how do you bring darkness into a room full of Light? Can you carry it in a box? Can you
open the box, let the darkness out and let it fill in the space? No, the Light fills the box, and darkness disappears. But as I grew older I realized that people can bring darkness into a room with scowls and storm clouds over their heads. The tone and energy can suddenly go from Light to heavy. Try as you might, you cannot budge a “Debbie Downer” from their take on the world. They feed off that energy; it’s how they get their “hit.” Without realizing it, they are tuned to darkness - dark news, dark thoughts, dark opinions, dark predictions. The Buddhists call them hungry ghosts. Such dedication to darkness is enough to make you believe in possession.
The only person with more power in the same room is a funny person. As I get older, my respect for humorous souls grows. They can laugh at their own foibles, call out humanity’s absurdness, spot the quirks and even quell the fears that might otherwise get them locked up in jail or the hospital. God Bless the silly, goofy, observant comedians in the room who refuse to take themselves too seriously and who show us that the lighter side of life can actually reside in the heart of our heaviest, self-obsessed moments.
Past Christmases, I looked forward to Carmen’s flat-bed truck rolling up and down the streets, carols piped through speakers and kids dressed as a nativity tableau. Shepherds held hockey sticks as staffs, and Clyde, the family dog, played all animals. This year, three sweet children from the daycare shone their little mega-watt lights brightly upon me, delivering a plate of homemade cookies to my door. It took children to remind me that Christmas, whether through carols or cookies, is about spreading tidings of “goodness and light.” And now, more than ever, that seems only right.
Acadia Valley Library News
BY TRICIA FISCHBUCH
Happy New Year! We hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season and we wish good health, happiness, and plenty of reading and learning for you and your family in 2025!
The library is still closed for the holidays but will reopen Tuesday January 7 at 1:00 PM. Please note that library hours did change slightly in December and are now Tuesdays and Thursdays
1-6 PM and Wednesdays 1-5 PM. We will be continuing with the perpetual puzzle so please feel free to drop in anytime we’re open to work on it. Bring a friend (or a few)!
An after-school movie is planned for mid-January. Stay tuned for more details.
Thank you to everyone who visited the library in 2024. We look forward to seeing and serving you in 2025!
the same thing as financial planning. We believe a real financial plan adapts and grows alongside your life - and includes investments, tax opportunities, estate and legacy planning, and more. Do you agree? Let’s talk.
Looking into 2025’s crystal ball
BY BRUCE PENTON
Almost guaranteed to happen in 2025:
January — Russian sniper Alex Ovechkin continues his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s record for most career National Hockey League goals (894), but might wind up a half-dozen or so short by the end of the 2024-25 season. When the calendar flipped over to 2025, the Great 8 was 25 goals short.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
February — The Four Nations Faceoff tournament, dubbed the Few Nations Faceoff by a Montreal columnist because of the absence of players from Switzerland, Russia, Denmark, Czech Republic, Slovakia, among other hockey=playing countries, is a major success and no one misses the event it replaced — the NHL all-star game.
March — Perennial threats Kevin Koe and Brad Gushue falter at the Brier, confirming that the old guard is on the way out, and Canada’s new guard, led by 2025 champion Matt Dunstone, has officially arrived.
April — Rory McIlroy’s remade golf swing will finally result in a Masters’ championship, giving the Northern Irishman the coveted career grand slam. On April 1, the Leafs shock the NHL world by trading Auston Matthews for two first-round draft picks. “We were 7-1 when he was injured, so it shows we really don’t need him,” said a Leafs’ spokesman.
May — The Blue Jays get off to a promising .500 start into the second month of the MLB season and World Series parade plans begin to be formulated.
June — The NHL’s Stanley Cup playoffs, which used to end in early April during the Original 6 days, finally winds up on June 22, with the Oilers finally claiming the title after last year’s Game 7 heartbreak. Their opponent in the final? Ottawa Senators.
July — As the Jays fade, they make a big splash at the trade deadline, sending slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr., to a contender for a number of young prospects. With Guerrero, Jr., unsigned past the end of the 2025 season, Blue Jays’ brass figure they may as well get some young talent in exchange for the slugger before he becomes a free agent.
August
work with quarterback Nathan Rourke results in an 8-0 record to start the Canadian Football League sea son and Vancouver fans are dreaming of the team’s first Grey Cup since 2011.
September gets under way and defending Super Bowl champion Detroit Lions are again odds-on favourites to win it all.
October
Yankees and Dodgers, win their respective league championships, leaving Mets’ fans to wonder if that $765 million for Juan Soto was really worth it.
November
LeBron James is on the way out as the National Bas ketball Association enters a new era.
December penings over the previous 12 months are printed and show undoubtedly that most sports columnists have no idea what they’re talking about when they make predictions.
• TV fact from Yahoo Sports “Football is the most popular TV show in America — by a ridiculous margin. Of the 100 most-watched broadcasts
remade golf swing will finally
championship, giving the Northern Irishman the coveted career grand slam. On April 1, the Leafs shock the NHL world by trading Auston Matthews for two first-round draft picks. “We were 7-1 when he was injured, so it shows we really don’t need him,” said a Leafs’ spokesman.
of 2023, 96 were football games (93 NFL, three NCAA).”
• Andrew Hammond chick
Days. Bill Belichick dealing with six or seven re porters in a cramped auxiliary after a rain-soaked game at Virginia. It’s all gonna be so glorious. I give it two years.”
• Stewart Mandel
Bill Belichick as head football coach: “Unless Be lichick can magically restore eligibility for Brady
• Denny Carter to enrol at the University of North Carolina.”
• Jack Todd over the roster selections for the Few Nations Cup makes little sense. First, an international men’s hockey competition without the Swiss, Danes, Slo vaks and Czechs isn’t really international at all.”
• Mike Bianchi
Alabama fans whining about their three-loss team not getting an invitation to the College Football Playoff is like listening to Warren Buffett complain about not getting a senior discount.”
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The New Year is a perfect opportunity to embrace healthier habits and prioritize well-being. You can start today.
Start by finding activities you enjoy, whether it’s jogging, swimming, lifting weights, or joining a fitness class. Make movement a regular part of your routine. Although adding more activity to your life may seem overwhelming, it helps to start small. Make one lifestyle change that helps you move more regularly at an effort level that matches your current condition.
One step at a time
4 strategies for retaining your employees
As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, it can be challenging to retain your employees. Here are four strategies to help keep your talent.
1. Focus on communication. Communicate openly with your employees. Listen to their concerns and be open to new ideas. Let them know they’re heard and that you take them seriously.
Walking is a great way to be active. For most people, walking is a safe activity, and it helps make the bones stronger and keep the joints healthy. It can make you feel less tired and can put you in a good mood. To help get into the habit of walking, try wearing a pedometer for a day or even a week. At the start, you might be surprised to see how few steps you take each day. To boost your daily step count, make simple changes in your daily routines like:
• Park a few blocks away from work and walk.
• Take the stairs instead of escalators or elevators.
• Walk in your neighbourhood before or after supper. Start with short walks and slowly increase the distance. Set new goals when you’re ready.
• Invite a friend or family member to join. You may find you can walk longer when you walk with another person.
Remember, some activity is better than none. The more you do, the better.
Non-Certificated Classroom Supervisors ASSUMPTION SCHOOL
Oyen, Alberta
Christ the redeemer Catholic Schools is a large and fast-growing organization providing high quality education in a faith-based Christ-centered environment.
3. Offer benefits. Ask your employees what your company could improve and add these to their benefits and perks. For example, you could include group insurance, paid holidays, yoga classes, flexible working hours and telemedicine.
Applications are now being accepted for: Non-Certified Classroom Supervisors at Assumption School located in Oyen, Alberta
Non-Certified Classroom Supervisors work on an as needed, call out basis. Under the direction of the school administrator, our Non-Certified Classroom Supervisors will supervise students, maintain a positive learning environment and follow a set day plan in the event that a teacher is absent, and a certified substitute teacher is not available. Ideally, our Non-Certified Classroom Supervisors will have:
2. Think about development. Employees often quit because of a lack of advancement opportunities. Therefore, provide training so your employees can develop their potential, avoid boredom and take on new challenges.
4. Get out of the office. Create opportunities for your employees to socialize and have fun in a context that doesn’t revolve around work. Use the opportunity to celebrate their successes.
Relief Educational Assistants ASSUMPTION SCHOOL
Oyen, Alberta
Christ the redeemer Catholic Schools is a large and fast-growing organization providing high quality education in a faith-based Christ-centered environment. Applications are now being accepted for: Relief Educational Assistants at Assumption School located in Oyen, Alberta.
• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in a field related to youth, education, social work or recreation
Employee retention also depends on effective recruitment. Therefore, use a specialized agency to start your talent search today.
• 3-5 years of experience working with children or youth
Candidates with international education background and experience will also be considered
As a publicly funded Catholic School District, our schools and job locations are infused with the Catholic Faith. The successful candidate will demonstrate a respectful and sympathetic sensitivity to the Catholic beliefs and practices of the students and staff.
To apply go to www.redeemer.ab.ca, employment, career opportunities, support staff, active postings; you will be required to create an online account. This post will remain active as required.
If you have questions about this job, please contact Clarence Pereira, Human Resources Coordinator at: Email: cpereira@redeemer.ab.ca Phone: 403-938-8562. The School Division expresses appreciation to all those who apply. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Whether you already work in information technology (IT) or are just starting your studies, here are three qualities essential to your success.
The successful candidates will be enthusiastic, compassionate, and dedicated to supporting students, with a strong willingness to learn and grow in the role. Key attributes for success include flexibility, patience, adaptability, and excellent communication and collaboration skills. Preference will be given to candidates with relevant training and/or prior experience as an Educational Assistant.
As a publicly funded Catholic School District, our schools and job locations are infused with the Catholic Faith. The successful candidate will demonstrate a respectful and sympathetic sensitivity to the Catholic beliefs and practices of the students and staff.
1. ANALYTICAL SKILLS
As an IT employee, you’re often required to solve problems. Consequently, you must enjoy challenging yourself and looking for innovative solutions. You must also be inherently curious to stay updated with the latest technologies in a constantly evolving field.
you must be good at conveying your ideas, making yourself understood and finding the best moments to do so.
3. ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS
To apply go to www.redeemer.ab.ca, employment, career opportunities, support staff, active postings; you will be required to create an online account. This post will remain active as required.
If you have questions about this job, please contact Clarence Pereira, Human Resources Coordinator at: Email: cpereira@redeemer.ab.ca Phone: 403-938-8562.
2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS
If you want to thrive in IT, you must have exceptional organizational skills. Depending on your job, your colleagues may regularly interrupt you and require you to switch gears constantly. Therefore, you must be well organized and able to multitask to keep up with your workload.
The School Division expresses appreciation to all those who apply. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients. This means
Do you have these qualities? If so, you have everything you need for a long career in this promising field.
A Crossroads Museum Story – Finale
BY BERNIE KREWSKI
Gerard and Annie Peck, as previously noted, moved from Oyen to Calgary in 1938 where they retired. Their eldest and youngest sons, Hubert and David, remained in Alberta working in agriculture as ranchers and farmers at Cochrane and Lacombe.
Edward and Oswald, their second and third sons, followed different paths.
Edward left Oyen in the fall of 1924 to attend the Ontario Veterinary College at Guelph. He graduated in the spring of 1928 and on June 2 married Sylvia le Marchant at All Saints Church in Oyen. Sylvia was the daughter of Rev. and Mrs. le Marchant of Bolton, England, as I mentioned in an earlier article.
As The Oyen News reported, “The little church on the corner has a pretty interior and was beautifully arranged with plants and flowers provided by the women’s guild and their friends, this being the first wedding to be held within its doors.” A dance in the Masonic Hall was attended by one hundred and twenty-five guests with music by the Oyen Imperial Orchestra. Following a honeymoon in Calgary and Banff, Mr. & Mrs. Peck left for Winnipeg where Edward commenced duties as a veterinarian for the federal government.
Oswald Peck remained in Alberta for a few more years, commencing studies in entomology at the University of Alberta in the fall of 1928. He spent part of the summer of 1931 investigating the presence of wireworms in the Oyen district. After graduating in 1932, he continued his studies at McGill University where he subsequently received M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees.
On Oct. 7, 1936, the day after receiving the latter, Dr. Peck and Virginia Gardner were married. They settled in Ottawa where he was employed with Agriculture Canada. He died on February 2, 1999, age 95.
A news article published at the time of his death featured this headline: “Oswald Peck – Co-creator of insect collection.”
Dr. Peck was an integral member of a group of longtime scientists working in Agriculture Canada’s taxonomic department, studying and classifying insects often microscopically small. Their scientific legacy is described as a colossal catalogue known as the Canadian National Collection of Insects and Related Arthropods. “It is considered by many in the taxonomic field to be the best research collection in North America, containing 13 million to 15 million specimens from Canada, the U.S. and around the world.”
Three of his long-time colleagues, whose lives recently ended as well, were involved in a project during the 1950s and 1960s in a group of forty scientists collecting and identifying an estimated 250,000 insect species a year.
“They were responsible for supplying interested parties with the right name for an insect in question. With crops and subsequently huge sums of money in the balance, knowing your Chalcid wasps (Dr. Peck’s special interest) from your caddisflies is crucial. If you guess wrong, the results can be disastrous.”
When Mr. Peck wasn’t pondering the characteristics of his beloved wasps, he was likely tending to his equally beloved gardens with his wife, Virginia, being a life-long member of the Ottawa Horticultural Society.
The news report also said: “His interest in plants and insects no doubt grew from his days as an adolescent in Alberta. In 1920, when Mr. Peck was 17, his father moved his family from their home in England to Alberta. Though the land he’d acquired proved practically unworkable, the experience sent Mr. Peck and his brother off in pursuit of various agricultural interests”.
This narrative on the Peck family might have ended at this point, but for circumstances stemming from Edward Peck’s eminent career as a veterinarian. He died in England on February 24, 1971, at age 69. However, his contributions to the field of veterinary and animal medicine in Nigeria, British Somaliland and Tanganika with the British Colonial Service, and many other such endeavours, left a deep imprint for future generations of veterinarians.
These are summarized in a fifteen-page paper written by R. Trevor Wilson and published in the “International Journal of Veterinary and Animal Medicine,” 2020, vol. 3, Issue 2. Of even greater interest, it includes details about the Peck family and several photographs.
For example, Gerard Peck, Edward’s father, was previously employed as an electrical engineer and managing director of William Ryder Ltd., Engineers and Iron Foundry Operators, who manufactured spindles and flyers for the weaving trade and of which he was a principal shareholder. He travelled to Canada in 1911 and bought a half section of land (9.28.4.4) at Oyen (see the chart in Many Trails Crossed Here, v. 1, p. 69). Mr. Peck returned to England leaving A.E. Collenge (“Collinge” is misspelled), his gardener, in charge of his Canadian farm.
This paper outlines the various stages that led to the eventual arrival here of the Peck family in the early 1920s. Particularly noteworthy is that all the boys began their careers by attending the Olds School of Agriculture.
Matters changed, it appears, when Edward Ackroyd, Mrs. Peck’s brother and a distinguished lawyer in England, visited them in Oyen. He said their well-educated boys were wasting their time at the farm that had no future for them. Edward and Oswald apparently followed his advice.
These photos are of the Peck family home on their farm and of Edward’s wedding at the Anglican Church in Oyen.
I will be sending a copy of Trevor Wilson’s paper to the Crossroads Museum so it can be attached to accessories from David Perk’s wedding in 1929.
The new Peck house in the snow at Oyen, early 1920s. PHOTO COURTESY OF PECK FAMILY
The new Peck house in the snow at Oyen, early 1920s.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PECK FAMILY
2024 in Review
BY DAMIEN KUREK Battle River-Crowfoot MP
As 2024 drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on the events which have shaped our nation and our community. It was a year that tested our resilience and reminded us of the importance of unity, hope, and resilience—three of the fundamentals to the building of this region.
Looking back, I am truly inspired by the unwavering spirit of Canadians, especially those here in Battle River— Crowfoot. You faced challenges headon, demonstrating remarkable strength and determination in the face of adversity. From navigating economic uncertainties to supporting your neighbours in need, you have consistently shown the true meaning of community.
Regardless, we cannot ignore the difficulties which plagued our nation. The current NDP/Liberal Government’s lack of fiscal responsibility and high taxes have led to a soaring cost of living, making it increasingly challenging for families to afford necessities. The erosion of public trust in our institutions is a serious concern, and the lack of decisive action on critical issues like crime and public safety has left many feeling vulnerable and uncertain about the future.
I’ve heard your concerns firsthand. The carbon tax continues to burden our
farmers and small businesses, hindering their ability to thrive. Policies which undermine our energy sector are jeopardizing jobs and economic growth. And the rising cost of housing is making it increasingly difficult for young families to put down roots in our communities.
These are complex issues requiring real solutions. As your Member of Parliament, I am committed to working tirelessly to address these challenges and advocate for policies which support the hardworking people of our riding.
Despite the difficulties we face, I remain optimistic about the future. Canadians are resilient, and we have a long history of overcoming adversity. I believe, with strong leadership and a renewed focus on the needs of everyday Canadians, we can build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.
A future where families feel safe and secure in their communities.
A future where our rights and freedoms are protected, and Government serves the people.
A future where our industries, like agriculture and energy, are supported and empowered to thrive on the world stage.
A future where every Canadian has the opportunity to achieve their dreams
ACADIA VALLEY
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
• FREE Youth Skating Lessons 4:30-5:30
PM at the Acadia Valley Event Centre.
• Kids Rec Hockey at the Acadia Valley Event Centre 6:00-7:00 PM. Just for fun! Learn hockey basics without the commitment. Contact Phil Jarvis to register or just show up 306-570-4084. Must wear helmet with face mask and neck guard. Shin pads and elbow pads are optional, but good if you have them.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15
• FREE Youth Skating Lessons 4:30-5:30 PM at the Acadia Valley Event Centre.
• Kids Rec Hockey at the Acadia Valley Event Centre 6:00-7:00 PM. Just for fun! Learn hockey basics without the commitment. Contact Phil Jarvis to register or just
and build a better life for themselves and their families in both rural and urban Canada.
This is the Canada I believe in, and this is the Canada I am committed to fighting for.
As we step into the new year, I encourage you to hold onto hope. Reach out to your neighbours, lend a helping hand to those in need, and continue to engage in the democratic process.
Your voice matters, and together, we can make a difference. That is why I am so proud to be your representative and stand with Common Sense Conservative Leader, Pierre Poilievre and our plan to “Bring it Home.”
From Danielle, myself and my boys, and on behalf of the Parliament of Canada, I wish you blessings in the New Year. May it be filled with joy, peace, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
show up 306-570-4084. Must wear helmet with face mask and neck guard. Shin pads and elbow pads are optional, but good if you have them.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22
• FREE Youth Skating Lessons 4:30-5:30
PM at the Acadia Valley Event Centre.
• Kids Rec Hockey at the Acadia Valley Event Centre 6:00-7:00 PM. Just for fun!
Learn hockey basics without the commitment. Contact Phil Jarvis to register or just show up 306-570-4084. Must wear helmet with face mask and neck guard. Shin pads and elbow pads are optional, but good if you have them.
CEREAL
- Cereal Cottages Coffee on Tuesdays 10:30 - 11:30 AM
- Quilting Club weekly Wednesdays 10:00 AM
- 4 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
- Chase the Ace weekly Thursdays 7:009:00 PM at the Cereal Hotel
- Cereal Playground most Tuesdays 10:00 AM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
OYEN
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8, 2025
• Regular pot Luck Supper and Meeting at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre. Supper at 6:00 PM and meeting at 7:00 PM. Call Lynda (403-664-0908) of Beth (403-664-2462) for more information.
• Floor Curling resumes after the December break, at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre at 1:00 PM. If you want more information call either Heather White at 403-664-2462 or Beth Symes 403-664-
2462.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 & 28
• Crafting and Socializing at the Oyen and District Seniors Rec Center (50 plus). Come and Go or stay for the day. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Bring your own project and a bag lunch. $20 membership for the year or $5 drop in fee. Contact Cheryl Getz 403-6648688.
- Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Tuesday of every month 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. - Fun League Curling. Tuesday evenings. Enter teams to Jackie Dick 403-664-0157. - Cash League Curling. Wednesday evenings. Enter teams to Brett Peterson 403-664-8868. - Sturling League Curling. Thursday at noon. Enter teams to Jerry Logan 403-664-6001.
Damien Kurek
Santa’s elves met at the Legion Hall before Christmas to fill nearly 300 candy bags for Santa to deliver on Christmas Eve. From left: Mary Wenzel, Art Berg, Alona Petriieva, Yvonne Jones, Debbie Kovitch, Terry Skappak, Kaitlyn MacLean, Troy MacLean, Conner MacLean, Dr. Muller, Blake Hertz, Sherry MacLean, Riley Getz, Shaune Kovitch, Kirby Smith, Myrna Smigelski. Elves missing from photo: Evelyn Mills, Jarvis Siegel, Paige Siegel and Gwen Bergen. SUBMITTED PHOTO