Cashius Norris receives Jardine Bursary
BY DIANA WALKER
Cashius, a 2024 SCHS graduate, was accepted into Lakeland College for the 2024 fall term in the Animal Science Livestock Major program. This program covers the biology and handling of bison, beef, dairy, sheep, horses and pigs.
Cash, the oldest of Greg and Jerilyn Norris’s four children, was raised on his parents’ cattle ranch in the Sibbald/ Oyen area. He helps his Dad with feeding and caring for the livestock which includes beef cattle, a couple of dairy cows, horses, a few sheep, a couple of goats and finishing up with a couple of 4-H steers every year.
“I have been trying to build my herd by purchasing a heifer from my Dad or keeping a heifer from my own stock,” says Cash.
“My goal is to have my Masters in animal nutrition which includes 2 years at Lakeland College and 2 years at the University of Saskatchewan,” adds Cash. “All my life, I have loved the outdoors and wanted to pursue a career in something I loved. Being raised on a ranch, I have learned that taking care of animals is No. 1, so by taking this program, I hope to learn more about the well-being of all livestock animals.
“Raised by great parents, I was taught that community and family are important — I should help wherever needed.”
Cash volunteers with the Big Country Agricultural Society, Rod and Gun Club, United Church in Oyen, Sibbald Community Club and whenever a neighbour is in need of help. He has
Cash Norris receives one of three $1,000 Jardine Bursaries from
senting the committee including
been an East Sounding Creek 4-H Beef Club member for 7 years.
“I am a hard worker and hope to return to the community to help wherev-
Information
Session
Are you a ected by ... Beltone Hearing no longer coming out to the smaller communities of east central Alberta?
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22 -10:30 AM at The Oyen Lodge Maximum Hearing is
from Beltone the necessary software to be able to service and adjust them for you. Call 888-536-6299 for more info.
er needed — whether it’s volunteering or helping the community with their livestock nutrition needs,” concludes Cash.
Cheryl Ball, repre-
Sharon Dahl and Diana Walker.
PHOTO BY DIANA WALKER
BORDER KENNELS
Winter Wonderland enjoyed by all
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello, everyone. January is going so fast. Don’t know about anyone else, but I am ready for spring already. It’s nice that the evenings are getting a bit lighter out each day.
Monday morning started with exercises, followed by whist card games. In the afternoon was bingo.
Tuesday morning was exercises, and the regular bus run downtown. Also Tuesday morning was a one on one with a resident playing scrabble and I must admit I got beat bad this week. Tuesday afternoon was our pub day. Residents were served drinks and snacks during their social hour.
Wednesday morning there was Church with Bill, followed by crossword games. In the afternoon there were shuffleboard games. Wednesday was “National Wear Your Favorite Hat” day. The residents that participated in wearing a hat, got their name in a draw for a prize and Joan Sheilds was the lucky winner.
Thursday morning was one on one baking with a
resident. Thursday afternoon there was a Winter Wonderland Tea. Blue and white cupcakes, snowball cookies and white chocolate covered pretzels were served with tea and coffee. The tables were decorated with white trees, snowmen and snowballs with some blue décor. Door prizes were given out for those that attended the tea. The door prizes were biscuit cookies, a snowflake candy dish filled with candy and some snowflake coffee mugs with snowflake hand towels. Lucky winners were Joan Mick, Maxine Girletz, Don Bamber, Madeline Nichols and Keith MacLean. Some of the residents dressed in blue and white to go with the winter wonderland theme.
Friday morning started with exercise, followed by horse races. In the afternoon there was bingo and in the evening the Jorgenson’s played music. Happy Birthday to Sophie Smith on January 16th.
Just a reminder that Maximum Hearing will be at the Lodge on Wednesday January 22nd. The Oyen Lodge would like to welcome a new resident, Tom Tracy. Have a great week everyone. Stay warm and stay safe.
OYEN LODGE REPORT
OPINION: Who are the important people?
BY JOAN JANZEN
An episode from the BBC archives included an interview of 9-year-olds in 1967. When the kids were asked who they considered an important person, one little girl said she thought the Prime Minister was important. “He’s got an easy job, cause he has plans to do things, but he doesn’t get around to doing them,” she said.
Although she had never met him, she did see his autograph. “He has terrible handwriting. If I had terrible writing like that, my teacher would say I was a naughty girl,” she observed.
Scott Hennig, President of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) noted that some people consider themselves to be very important people. During a CTF online episode, Scott said, “Senators are people who think so very highly of themselves that any suggestion that they aren’t making the best decisions is not acceptable.”
“No one pays attention to the Senate, but it’s boiling under the surface,” he observed. “We shouldn’t have unelected people making laws. In an ideal world, we wouldn’t have this situation.”
According to an article by Richard Foot, “The Senate has operated for much of its history as a partisan political bodyits members following instructions from their party leaders, rather than as originally intended, as an independent voice for regional interests. This has fuelled demands that the Senate be reformed or
Future kids have to pay for the money that was spent on us. We have to address it.
Scott Hennig
abolished.” Nevertheless, no bill can become law without the Senate’s consent, and it can veto any bill as often as it likes.
There are 105 Senators, and Justin Trudeau has appointed 90 of them. “Trudeau is appointing people who say nice things about his government, and making them all seem like they’re independent, but they’re not,” Scott said. To put this number in perspective, John A. MacDonald appointed 92 Senators, and he had to because he was the first Prime Minister of Canada. Trudeau is making history.
“He’s been in for nine years and will potentially have appointed 100 senators,” Scott reiterated. “If a Conservative government is elected in October, 2025, they will be left with ten Conservative senators out of 105. How are they going to get legislation approved by these eminent people appointed by Justin Trudeau?” That is a very good question.
New Zealand got rid of its Senate, and Australia has an elected Senate. Here in Canada, we have unelected elite land owners making laws. But it’s a controversial institution, as many Canadians
think it should be reformed into an elected body accountable to the voters or abolished.
Scott explained that in the old days, being a senator was a reward for raising money for a party and serving a party for a long time. They had no particular qualifications. That was a superior system compared to what we have today.” Today, appointed members are able to hold their seats until age 75.
According to the Constitution, their most crucial purpose is to give the regions of Canada an equal voice in Parliament by representation by population. This equates to ten seats each for New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, four for PEI, 24 each for Quebec and Ontario, six for Newfoundland and Labrador, one each for Yukon and Nunavut, and six each for BC, Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan.
“I have very little faith we’ll have a Senate that wants to play ball with a Conservative government,” Scott said. “I think the Senate is going to be a huge fight over the next two or three years.”
Scott’s colleague Franco Terrazzano from CTF agreed, saying, “We’ve already had a taste of it.” He gave the example of Bill C-234, a bill that would remove the carbon tax on natural gas and propane used by farmers. The Bill was passed by our elected representatives in the House of Commons but delayed by the Senate. Now, it’s still in limbo.
Even the decor of the House of Commons is significant. The royal red Sen-
ate Chamber represents the elite, while the the bright green in the House of Commons represents the common people.
CTF also represents the common people with 36,000 Canadians donating to their organization. Kris Sims from CTF recalled a memory from a few years ago when she gave testimony at the finance committee leading up to the budget. A parade of groups, lobbyists and activists were asking for more money, she recalled. “CTF was the first group to say “stop spending.”
Scott chimed in, saying lobbyists are effective if you want small, necessary regulation changes. But if you want large changes, you can’t rely on them because they work for their masters.
“Our job is to be the sober one in the room,” he said, referring to CTF. “We work for our masters, the 36,000 Canadians who donate to CTF. We can’t take our foot off the gas or we’re going to lose.”
It’s a sad commentary when CTF had to build an entirely new debt clock because their old clock didn’t have enough digits. Scott referred to debt as an immoral tax on future kids. “Future kids have to pay for the money that was spent on us. We have to address it,” he said.
When we hear groups asking for more money, it’s important to remember that debt is an immoral tax on future kids— because future kids are the important people.
Pop89: Word search
BY MADONNA HAMEL
My brother is back on the prairie. Living alone in an isolated community is tough when you’re in the best of health. While great poets and authors, from Henry David Thoreau to Annie Dillard, have found solace and inspiration living alone in the woods, neither remained in permanent seclusion. Dillard knew you needed human exchange to prevent the brain from spinning. And once a week, Thoreau took his laundry to his mom’s on the other side of Walden Pond. And stayed for supper. And neither of them were struggling to find their words, or shoes, or place on the planet, after a stroke.
Last week, my younger sister and I drove to pick up Doug at the Calgary airport. We left Medicine Hat at 7 am, just as it began to rain. Great. Over the years, I’ve driven my share of hairy road trips - Quebec in
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Wednesday January 29 2025
7:00 PM
Oyen FCSS Youth Centre Dinner will be provided
Please RSVP to Charmain Snell Email: oyenchamberofcommerce@gmail.com or text 403-664-1404
EVERYONE WELCOME!
commencing at 1:00 p.m. Ashley D. Herrmann in attendance on Wednesday, February 12th March 12th, April 9th For appointments call 1-800-245-9411 or 1-403-526-2806 Oyen Law Office #215C Main Street (South side of Lijdsman Insurance) Wills & Estates Real Estate General Matters
an ice storm, Nebraska at 3 am after a blues gig, and a muddy detour through Harrison Hot Springs a week before Christmas. Canadians know the risks of winter driving, but still we remain at the mercy of the elements. There are no atheists on an icy highway - we let loose with the Hail Marys.
An hour out of Medicine Hat, driving 10 km below the speed limit, I pulled out to pass a truck. That’s when the fishtailing began. Anyone who’s hit black ice knows how things can go very bad, very fast. At first, I thought we were caught in a gust of wind, but soon, the front of the car was sliding one way and the back the other. A calm voice in my head said: Stay out of the ditch. And ride it out. Riding it out meant teeny micro-adjustments on the wheel and foot off brake and gas. Swish - one way, swish another, back and forth, like a drunk on skates, five or six times.
Everything happened in both a slo-mo and a fast, multi-layered sort of way. And somewhere inside the experience came the words: “precious cargo,” a phrase connected to a memory from university days when I drove my younger siblings through the Cascade Mountains to spend Christmas break with family in Kelowna. I felt the responsibility of getting us all home safely.
When the car finally settled down and stayed the course, the residue adrenaline kicked in, and so did the jokes. “I shoulda told you to put away those knitting needles,” I laughed to my sister. I was suitably humbled and hyper-alert for the remainder of the journey, which at 90km/hr, took a while, but eventually gave way to a sunny day and bare roads and a happy family, together again. My brother was waiting by the arrivals curb, and my sister jumped out and held up her silly sign; we hugged and wept and went to Tim’s for coffees and crullers.
For a week we hung out The Hat waiting for the weather to make up its mind, content to go nowhere just yet. I managed to read two books on my favourite couch while my brother-in-law cooked a belated Christmas feast of roast ham and tourtiere, and my sister mulled wine in a crock pot, following Old Time Hawkey’s recipe. And, best of all, my brother slept. For three days, he slept - getting up for meals and to pee and be reminded where and when he was. And we all agreed, and he concurred; just hearing familiar voices
in the other room allowed him to rest without worrying over the daily chores of living alone on an island. And knowing, also, that when he does get up, we’ll be here to talk to him. And reassure him, if need be.
The day was brilliant with sunshine when we left The Hat for Val Marie. In Swift Current, we stopped for coffee for me and a fresh stack of word-search exercise books for my brother’s eyes. The sun shone down on us, and apart from a long stretch of sudden snowdrifts between Swift and Cadillac (made worse by the dumbfounding decision by the new owners of long stretches of farmland along the highway to pull out all the shelter belts), the roads were navigable. It was a happy moment when we pulled into Val Marie at dusk, the sky turning pink, the hills gold and the snow blue. My brother relished the thought of falling asleep to the sound of the owl outside his window and rising to fresh coffee and conversation. Just a few days earlier, anticipating our mini-family reunion, he texted me: “Other humans are balm to us extroverts.”
This morning, I retrieved “7 1/2 Lessons About the Brain” from my “brain book” shelf and flipped to Lesson #5: “Your Brain Secretly Works With Other Brains.” The author, Dr. Lisa Barrett, reaffirms the theory that we need others to help us feel whole. She writes that humans are unique in the animal kingdom because we “regulate each other by the words we speak.” Words have an enormous effect on your health, she explains, because “many brain regions that process language also control the insides of your body, including major organs….These brain regions are part of a language network that can do things like change the flow of chemicals that support your immune system,” etc. “The power of words,” she stresses, “is not a metaphor. It’s in your brain wiring. Words are tools for regulating human bodies.”
Our brains work with others’ brains. “The best thing for your nervous system is another human.” But, also, the worst thing too. So be very careful with whom you choose to hang. And then, don’t try and do it all alone. We can do together what we could never do alone. And remember, the words we search for - coming from love or trepidation, tears or laughter, or the conversations of loved ones drifting from other rooms, lulling us safely to sleep - matter greatly. They keep us alive.
First Minsters’ meeting: Premier Smith
Premier Danielle Smith issued the below statement following the First Ministers’ meeting to discuss the threat of tariffs from the United States:
“I had a constructive discussion with my fellow Premiers on how best to deal with the threat of tariffs from the incoming U.S. administration. We agreed on several strategies and I look forward to continuing to work with them on this critical issue.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Land Use Bylaw 929-25
Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act (MGA), Section 639 every Council of a Municipality must pass a land use bylaw and must be advertised and a public hearing held. The proposed is a new Land Use bylaw following public consultation and open house held November 27, 2024.
“However, federal government officials continue to publicly and privately float the idea of cutting off energy supply to the U.S. and imposing export tariffs on Alberta energy and other products to the United States. Until these threats cease, Alberta will not be able to fully support the federal government’s plan in dealing with the threatened tariffs.
A public hearing for Bylaw No. 929-25 Oyen Land Use Bylaw will be held in The Town of Oyen office at 201 Main Street, Oyen, AB, on February 11, 2025 commencing at 6:00 p.m. Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaw.
Written comments may be delivered to Town of Oyen, PO Box 360, Oyen, AB Canada T0J 2J0 or emailed to cao@oyen.ca; submissions will be received up to Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
The proposed Bylaw 929-25 can be reviewed online at www.oyen.ca, or copies may be picked up Monday through Friday at The Town of Oyen Office at 201 Main St, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
This notice is given pursuant to Sections 606 and 692 of the Municipal Government Act.
Debbie Ross CAO
“Alberta will simply not agree to export tariffs on our energy or other products, nor do we support a ban on exports of these same products. We will take whatever actions are needed to protect the livelihoods of Albertans from such destructive federal policies.
“We also urge our entire nation to use this tariff threat as an opportunity to correct the misguided direction of this country and commence multiple infrastructure projects that focus on developing, upgrading and exporting our oil, gas and other natural resources, instead of effectively landlocking them and keeping us fully reliant on one primary customer.
“I will be travelling to Washington D.C. this week for the inauguration, and will be returning to the United States several times over the coming months to meet with U.S. lawmakers and officials to continue to make the case against the imposition of tariffs on Canadian products and to strengthen and grow the trading relationship between our two great and independent nations.”
Danielle Smith.
Improving Habs becoming a threat once again
BY BRUCE PENTON
Normalcy is returning to the National Hockey League now that the Montreal Canadiens are a threat again.
The Canadiens, the league’s flagship team and winner of more Stanley Cups than any other franchise, have fallen on bad times in recent years, but are one of the league’s surprise success stories this season.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
Crave TV ran a documentary on the Habs, called ‘The Rebuild: Inside the Montreal Canadiens’, that focused on efforts made by front-office staff to return the Canadiens to their glory days. And judging by recent results — nine wins in an 11-game span over Christmas and into the new year, for instance — it’s working. At one point, Montreal was two games above .500, which was something worth celebrating. In one late-December stretch, Montreal won back-toback-to-back road games against Tampa Bay, Florida and Vegas, following up later with road wins over Cup contenders Colorado and Washington.
The Canadiens, whose 24 Stanley Cups wins are 11 ahead of second-place Toronto, have had three successive last-place finishes in the NHL’s Atlantic Division, but find themselves in a battle for an Eastern Conference wildcard playoff position as the season approaches its halfway mark.
In fact, this iteration of the Canadiens, given a couple of years of growth, could develop into a Stanley Cup contender. Offensively, Cole Caufield is one of the NHL’s most prolific scorers. Lline-mate Nick Suzuki, the team captain, leads the team in points. One of the most exciting young defencemen in the league, rookie Lane Hutson, plays a ton of minutes and quarterbacks their power play. Slovakia’s Juraj Slafkovsky, the No. 1 overall draft pick in 2022, is developing nicely, with more points than any other
One of the most exciting young defencemen in the league, rookie Lane Hutson, plays a ton of minutes and quarterbacks their power play.
member of the ’22 draft class (Hutson went 62nd in the same draft). And while many around the NHL shook their heads when the Habs acquired Patrik Laine and a second-round pick in a trade with Columbus for Jordan Harris, the acquisition has turned out great. The Finnish forward, a former Jet and Blue Jacket, scored nine goals in his first 14 games for Montreal and adds the power to their power play. Still to join the team is Russian sniper Ivan Demidov, a sharpshooter who was selected No. 5 in the 2024 draft.
On the defensive side, Mike Matheson, Kaiden Guhle and Alexandre Carrier join Hutson as game-changers on the blueline, and the recent emergence of rookie goalie Jakub Dobes, who won his first two games with a .982 save percentage, to share duties with six-year vet Sam Montembeault gives Montreal fans hope another Patrick Roy-Carey Price stabilizing influence will develop between the pipes. General manager Kent Hughes is taking a lowkey approach. “We still have a lot to learn,” Hughes said in a Canadian Press story. “I’m glad we’re playing better than we did at the start of the season, but we’ve played 40 games and are (just) over the .500 mark. We’re not celebrating for nothing. We haven’t achieved anything yet.”
• Headline at theonion.com: “LeBron pressures Bronny to have grandchildren before he’s too old to play with them in NBA.”
STARS LOTTERY celebrates 40 years of critical care with Alberta’s biggest charity lottery
CALGARY – STARS LOTTERY Alberta is back with its largest ever prize pool in celebration of STARS’ 40th anniversary. From now until March 27, 2025, Albertans can buy their tickets for a chance to win thousands of prizes — including three grand prize dream homes — and be part of STARS’ mission to provide critical care, anywhere.
“For 40 meaningful years, STARS has been dedicated to providing critical care and hope on the worst day in someone’s life,” said Dr. John Froh, incoming president and CEO, STARS. “Every mission reflects our commitment to supporting critically injured patients when they need it most. The lottery is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and every ticket purchased ensures we can continue saving the lives of Albertans for years to come.”
STARS LOTTERY typically raises enough to fund the 24/7 operations of one of STARS’ three Alberta bases for an entire year. With 1,720 missions flown across Alberta last year alone, lottery ticket sales are vital to supporting patients in life-threatening circumstances.
This year is set to impress as Alberta’s largest charitable lottery with
4,000 prizes up for grabs, valued at $5.4 million. Tickets can be purchased online at starslottery.ca, by phone at 1-855-STARS-68 (782-7768), or at each of the grand prize dream homes. With tickets starting as low as $30, STARS LOTTERY remains one of the most accessible and affordable major charitable lotteries in the province.
Prizes include three grand prize dream homes located in Calgary, Edmonton, and Lethbridge; a 2025 Porsche 911 Targa GTS valued at $268,341; and four international vacation prizes valued between $4,000 and $12,500. Plus, the fan favourite Million STARS Daily Cash is back — with 40 daily draws of $25,000 each, — totaling $1 million in prizes. A full list of prizes can be found at ab.starslottery.ca
All dream homes are open for viewing until Mar. 23, 2025; Sat., Sun. and holidays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Calgary: “The Encore” — 8217 8A Avenue SW.
Edmonton: “The Ruby” — 3004 Milner Crescent, located in the community of The Village at Griesbach. Lethbridge: “The Kallyn Jeffrey” — 636 Devonia Road W.
• Columnist Norman Chad, on Twitter: “ESPN’s Dan Orlovsky talks more in a three-man booth than the late Vin Scully talked in a one-man booth.”
• Jack Finarelli on his sportscurmudgeon.com website, on Orlovsky: “I am a full-fledged supporter of the First Amendment guaranteeing free speech, but I think Orlovsky’s performance was a violation of that right.”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen: “Canada was bounced earlier in the World Junior for the second straight tourney. Now we’ll be subject to more federal commissions, inquiries and referendums than in a normal election year.”
• Rolfsen agailn: “Latvia has fewer people than Greater Vancouver, but way happier hockey fans.”
• Bob Molinaro of pilot online.com (Hampton, Va.): “Did you notice that ESPN began running Masters commercials on Jan. 1? C’mon now. It’s the Masters. As if people would forget to watch.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “New Orleans police recently were looking for ex-WWE star Davey Boy Smith for assaulting wrestler Jake ‘The Snake’ Roberts –– by throwing coffee at him. So the complaint had grounds.”
• Headline at theonion.com: “NBA Team Physicians Admit They Only Know Medical Stuff About Legs”
• From the golf site First Call: “Scottie Scheffler suffered an injury to his right hand from broken glass while preparing Christmas dinner, keeping him out of action for a few weeks. Shouldn’t a man who won $62 million with his hands last year be kept away from sharp objects?”
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun: “No one of sound mind will sign Pete Alonso for nine seasons. But that’s assuming that everyone in baseball is of sound mind.”
• Brett McMurphy on Bluesky: “Forget the Kentucky Derby, Jack Sawyer’s 83-yard fumble return for Ohio State (vs. Texas) is the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
“Displaced Persons” explained – Part 2
BY BERNIE KREWSKI
The Dziuba, Dumanowski, Garszczal, and Mikosz families provide brief but valuable sketches of what caused them to leave their Polish homeland during WWII, eventually coming to live in this community. Recently, scholars and journalists have published detailed explanations of their complicated journeys, especially since the disintegration of the Soviet Union beginning in 1989. These writings give us a much larger and clearer picture. Anne Applebaum’s “The Gulag: A History” (2003) is an example.
Poland in 1939 was vulnerable to invasion. Ruled by Prussian, Russian, or Austro-Hungarian Empires for more than a century, it was finally granted statehood in the peace treaty ending WWI. But then it was squeezed between two authoritarian regimes – the German Third Reich and the Soviet Union, both contending that much of the Polish landscape was part of their territory!
Then on August 23, 1939, Germany and Russia signed a non-aggression pact. They agreed to take no military action against each other for the next ten years. This gave the Soviet Union time to strengthen its military and assured Hitler his troops would be unopposed to invade Poland. The results were immediate - the Nazis invaded the western half of Poland on September 1st, the Russians followed two weeks later (September 17), taking control of the eastern half.
If your home was in the western part of Poland, you were potentially faced with slave labour, prison, or murder. Auschwitz, the well-known concentration and extermination known for killing Jewish people, was originally built in 1940 to eliminate Polish political prisoners – those resisting Nazi policies.
Transportation to Siberia or murder were common practices if you resided in the eastern half of Poland. As Anne Applebaum notes, Russian authorities in April 1940 secretly murdered more than 20,000 Polish officers and officials in the Katyn forest – the country’s elite. No one knew what happened to them. “Russian President Boris Yeltsin admitted Soviet responsibility for this massacre only in 1991” (p. 431).
As John Dziuba told me one Sunday afternoon: “There was a knock on their door during the night. We were told to pack supplies within an hour for two weeks of travel. My brother said, ‘Let’s
ASSUMPTION
fight them!’ We looked outside and our house was surrounded by soldiers.”
Frank Dumanowski describes living conditions in Siberia in his family’s history. I heard similar stories from Honorata Mikosz as well.
Not surprisingly, Nazi Germany violated its non-aggression agreement less than two years later, invading the Soviet Union on June 22nd, 1941. It was the largest and costliest land offensive in human history, with about ten million combatants taking part.
In desperation, the Russians turned to Great Britain and its Allies for military support. One condition imposed by the Allies was forcing the Soviets to release thousands of Poles detained in Siberia. Many were in horrible physical and psychological condition from their experience. Some joined the “Polish Army” that was soon established, originally called “The Polish Armed Forces of the USSR.” Others were willing to contribute to the war effort as civilians since their homeland, now a war zone, offered no safety if they returned.
The Polish army eventually became the Polish Second Corps attached to the British 8th Army with headquarters in Iran. It was led by the legendary General Wladyslaw Anders (1892-1970) who escaped the fate of his comrades murdered at Katyn. It was members of this group who were involved in the famous battle of Monte Cassino, February & March 1944, overturning the Germany stronghold in Italy.
John Dziuba described to me electrifying moments of the Cassino invasion, travelling on steep mountainous roads in darkness – men guiding vehicles at night, driving with no lights!
An example from my own family helps to explain why it is often so difficult for people to fully describe their unspeakable horrors in Siberia.
Josephine is the mother-in-law of my nephew who lives in Rossland, BC. When I met her in the early 1990s, it was to casually find out where she grew up, reportedly near where my Polish father was born. A simple conversation turned into a remarkable unspoken story, unknown to her own daughter, of living in Siberia and holding her younger sister as she died in her arms.
About six million Polish people perished during WWII, as Bernard Wisniewski notes – half were Christians, and the other half were Jews. They died in camps and prisons, shot in city squares and forests, hanged from lampposts and burned in barns and churches. There was even a special concentration camp for Polish children where 12,000 of the 13,000 occupants were killed. Close to 100,000 Polish children were kidnapped for “Germanification.” – and only about one-fifth returned to their birth-families after the war.
Oyen’s “Siberian Six” had the courage to overcome the tragic circumstances of their early lives, consequently contributing in personal ways to the vibrant life of this community. For that they will always be remembered!
Town of Oyen Library: Booknotes
BY DAYNA WILSON Library Manager
FICTION:
Bronco Buster / by: A.J. Devlin
Circle of Death / by: James Patterson
City of the Dead / by: James Patterson
The Dark Becomes Her / by: Judy Lin
Held ; A Novel / by: Anne Michaels
The Note : A Novel / by: Alafair Burke Secrets in the Dark / by: Heather Graham
Shoestring Theory : A Novel / by: Mari Costa
Tom Clancy:Command and Control / by: Marc Cameron
The Villa : A Novel / by: Rachel Hawkins
What I know About you / by: Elric Chacour
Where the Creek Bends / by: Linda Lael Miller
Never Say Never / by: Danielle Steele
The House of Cross / by: James Patterson
Huge: A Novel / by: Brent Butt
A Ladie’s Guide to Marvel and Misadventure / by: Angela Bell
YOUNG ADULT FICTION:
Dear Dad / by: Laura A. Best
Don’t Let the Forest In / by: C.G. Drews
Gleanings / by: Neal Shusterman
The Prisoner’s Throne : A Novel of
Elfhame / by: Holly Black
Scythe / by: Neal Shusterman
The Sticky Note Manifesto of Aisha Agarwal / by: Ambika Vohra
Thunderhead / by: Neal Shusterman
The Toll / by: Neal Shusterman
Twenty four seconds from now : A love story / by: Jason Reynolds
A Wish for Us / by: Tillie Cole
Wrong Answers Only / by: Tobias Madden
JUVENILE FICTION:
Attack of the Rectangles / by: A. S. King
The Last Kids on Earth : June’s Wild Flight / by: Max Brallier
The Last Kids On Earth : Cosmic Beyond / by: Max Brallier
The Last Kids on Earth : The Midnight Blade / by: Max Brallier
The Monster in the Hollow / by: Andrew Peterson
North! Or be Eaten / by: Andrew Peterson
Not Nothing / by: Gayle Forman
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Dark-
ness / by: Andrew Peterson
The Warden and the Wolf King / by: Andrew Peterson
EARLY READERS:
The Dream Team! : Glitter and Shine / by: Kaela Rivera
YOUNG ADULT GRAPHIC NOVELS:
Girlmode / by: Magdalene Visaggio
Jujutsu Kaisen 24 : Fearsome Womb:Reccurence / by: Gege Akutami
JUVENILE GRAPIC NOVELS:
I Survived The American Revolution 1776 / by: Georgia Ball
I Survived The Attack of the Grizzlies 1967 / by: Georgia Ball
I Survived The Destruction of Pompeii AD 79 / by: Georgia Ball
I Survived The Great Chicago Fire 1871 / by: Georgia Ball
I Survived The Nazi Invasion 1944 / by: Georgia Ball
I Survived The Shark Attacks of 1916 / by: Georgia Ball
The Last Kids On Earth : The Graphic Novel Vol. 1 / by: Scott Peterson
Wildflower Emily: A Story about young Emily Dickinson / by: Lydia Corry
NON-FICTION BOOKS:
No Bad Parts : Healing Trauma / by:
Taxation ONLY with representation
BY DAMIEN KUREK
A fundamental aspect of our democratic system is that the Government can only tax its citizens and spend those tax dollars with Parliamentary approval. Since the Magna Carta was signed more than eight centuries ago and the growth of modern democracy in the Westminster system of Government we have today, this has been an essential element of democracy. Yet, we now find ourselves in a situation where the changes to the federal capital gains tax has never been voted on, but will be collected. I wish I could say I was surprised, but with the normalization of constitutional crises we have seen over the last nine years under Justin Trudeau and the NDP/Liberals, this is simply another Liberal attack on democracy.
lieve that it is unconstitutional to even collect it. This tax, which economists suggest could kill over 400,000 jobs and shrink our economy by 90 billion dollars, will have a disproportionate effect on small- and medium-sized business owners, farmers and ranchers, and interestingly, will have a huge impact on family doctors.
Poilievre didn’t mince words when speaking about this in the context of the current Liberal Leadership race to replace Justin Trudeau: “Trudeau’s Chief Economic Advisor, Carbon Tax Carney, and former Finance Minister, Chrystia Freeland, were behind this job-killing tax increase. It is driving our economy into the ground, especially with President Trump’s tariff threats looming over us. This was a bad idea before, but now it’s outright insanity.”
Green Slush Fund (for which the ethics commissioner confirmed lawbreaking deals), $50 million for Mastercard’s office, and $20 billion in contracts. I have listened to you. These tax hikes, like the carbon tax, need to be
Richard Swartz
Feeding Your Skin / by: Carla Oates
The Ballerina of Auschwitz : A Memior / by: Edith Eva Eger
Come As You Are : A surprising New Science / by: Emily Nagoski
Cooking Step by Step / Multiple Authors
PERIODICALS: Hello Canada
The Hockey News Woman’s Day
SERVICE OPTIONS:
The library is currently open as usual, but we have added a curbside service option as well. If you prefer to pick up materials this way, please call ahead or email to let us know which day to put them out.
If you are unable to come out to the library due to physical conditions we can do deliveries within the town limits. Please just give us a call at the number listed below.
Library Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7 403-664-3644 ext. 2 aoymlibrary@oyenlibrary.ca www.oyenlibrary.ca www.facebook.com/OyenLibrary
In the 2024 Federal Budget, the Liberals announced they would increase the inclusion rate on capital gains in Canada. They did not, however, include this measure in any budget bill, and only tabled a motion to make the changes in the Fall. This motion has never been voted on but also has never been debated.
To note, the reason the motion did not get debated or voted on is because the entire Fall sitting of Parliament was consumed by debates on Liberal scandals. Now, with Parliament being prorogued, which is an insult to democracy in and of itself, the legislative agenda has been reset. This means the CRA is going to collect a tax that has not been voted on.
Common Sense Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has been clear: Conservatives do not support this tax hike on job creators, will repeal it, and be-
Let’s not forget, after nine years of Liberal economic vandalism, our economy has suffered, and our standard of living has fallen. In fact, Texas, with 10 million fewer people, now boasts an economy larger than all of Canada’s provinces and territories combined. And tax hikes like the capital gains hike and carbon tax brought in by the Liberals (with the support of the NDP), have made Canada poorer.
Canadians also need to be able to choose in an election whether they support policies like this. Conservatives have made it clear that we will permanently axe this job-killing increase, safeguarding our jobs and our dollars. Further, we will cut back on corporate welfare—those lavish subsidies handed out to big, politically connected corporations with nothing to show but waste. Think about it: $9 million for edible crickets, $400 million for the
axed. Conservatives believe we need to be a country which allows our people to prosper, rewards hard work, brings home an economy where the Canadian promise, including here in rural Alberta, can be realized again.
25014DS3
Battle River - Crowfoot MP
Damien Kurek
DRY COUNTRY GAS CO-OP LTD. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY SERVICE PERSON POSITION
Dry Country Co-op is currently seeking to fill a full-time service person position. On the job training is available with Gas Utility Operator certificate to follow.
The successful applicant will be responsible under supervision, to assist in the operation and maintenance of the Dry Country Gas Co-op Ltd. distribution system.
Duties would include:
- Installing new gas services as well as secondary gas lines
- Operating a trencher/plow, backhoe, and a skid steer
- Locating underground lines
- On-call rotation
- Operating and maintaining RMO stations
- Meter seal updates
- Able to complete all provided and required training
- All other duties as required
Applicants must have a clean, valid class 5 driver’s license.
Dry Country Gas Co-op Ltd. offers a competitive wage and benefits package.
Please forward your resume & drivers abstract to:
Dry Country Gas Co-op Ltd.
Attention: Gene Hauck Bag 4000, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0
Fax: 403-664-3158 Email: gene_dcg@telus.net
Only applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Deadline for application is January 24, 2025.
Helping seniors explore Alberta’s hidden gems
Alberta’s government is delivering on its promise to introduce a camping fee discount for seniors.
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.
Alberta’s government is making it easier than ever for seniors to explore and enjoy the stunning landscapes that provincial parks have to offer. Starting May 1, Alberta
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.
seniors aged 65 and older will enjoy a 25 per cent discount on camping fees at select campgrounds, opening the door to more high-quality and lowcost outdoor adventures and opportunities to foster a deeper connection with nature.
3. Offer benefits. your company could improve and add these to their benefits and perks. For example, you could include group insurance,paid holi days, yoga classes, flexible working hours and telemedicine.
4. Get out of the office. ties for your employees to socialize and have fun in a context that doesn’t revolve around work. Use the opportunity to ce lebrate their successes.
Grazing Lease For Sale in Special Areas #4
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.
NE-23-35-01-W4
SW-25-35-01-W4
SE-25-35-01-W4
NE-25-35-01-W4
NW-24-35-01-W4
NE-24-35-01-W4
28 acres each pt NE-25-35-29-W3 & pt SE-25-35-29-W4
Leo Kolman Box 613 Macklin, SK S0L 2C0 1-306-753-2667 or cell 1-306-753-7244
NOTICE - FOR SALE BY TENDER
The Owner, Vernon Brockmann and Debora Brockmann will accept offers (by tender only) to purchase the following lands located in Special Areas 3 in the Province of Alberta:
DEEDED CULTIVATION:
SE-18-30-2-W4 (157.05 acres) – 100 acres in cropland
NE-30-30-1-W4 (159 acres more or less) in hay
SW-8-32-1-W4 (159.50 acres more or less) in hay
“We live in the most beautiful place on earth, and initiatives like these will make it easier than ever for Albertans, especially seniors, to explore and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes Alberta has to offer. By making our parks more accessible and affordable, we are enhancing quality of life for seniors, promoting their health and well-being, and helping them discover the hidden gems of our province.”
Employee retention also depends on effective recruitment.There fore, use a specialized agency to start your talent search today.
“This new discount ensures that seniors can more easily discover the parks that make Alberta so extraordinary. By reducing costs and improving access, we’re empowering seniors to connect with nature and explore the diverse beauty of our province.”
Todd Loewen, Minister of Forestry and Parks
Dale Nally, Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
OYEN GREENHOUSES LTD. is currently seeking a
How to welcome a teleworking employee
NW-34-31-1-W4 (155.05 acres more or less) in hay. Surface Lease registered against these lands is being discharged.
DEEDED PASTURE:
Descriptive Plan 1612461 Block 1 Lot 1 (being a Portion of NE-21-31-2-W4) containing 122.98 acres more or less with one spring fed dugout. These lands are subject to a Restrictive Covenant in favor her Majesty the Queen in right of Alberta restricting the use of the land by no breaking or cultivation of the entire quarter.
GRAZING LEASE #83674 contains the following portions of land in 3 quarters due to railroad: Portion NE-21-31-2-W4 containing approximately 2.25 acres more or less of grass in good condition
Portion SE-21-31-1-W4 containing 40.46 acres more or less with grass in good condition. NE 21 and SE 21 portion of lease are fenced with deeded pasture described in Descriptive Plan 1612461 Block 1 Lot 1
Portion NW-21-31-2-W4 containing 42.02 acres more or less is currently in hay.
CULTIVATION LEASE #5223 contains the following lands:
NW 13-31-2-W4 containing 153.59 acres more or less. Approximately 80 acres in cropland and remainder is pasture.
SW 24-31-2-W4 containing 4.23 acre more or less) is pasture.
Pasture portion in NW 13 and SW 24 fenced together for total of approximately 77.82 acres.
Tenders submitted must be on the Terms of Tender form which shall form the contract between the successful bidder and the Owner. Any bids which are not on the Terms of Tender form will not be considered.
The Terms of Tender form can be obtained from:
SEED TECHNICIAN
to start February 3, 2025 This position involves running various seeding machines and keeping track of seed inventory. Accuracy and dependability are a must. Training will be provided for the right individual. Contact us for more information. This position runs through June 1. Please send your resume to:
PO Box 358, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 Email :accounting@oyengreenhouses.ca Drop off at: 201 - 1 Ave. West, Oyen, AB
Telecommuting has become increasingly popular in recent years. It allows companies to recruit qualified talent across the globe. If your company is about to welcome a new telecommuting employee, here’s how to do it.
Don’t miss an opportunity to expand your agricultural knowledge!
Apply to join the CARA Team this summer and gain experience in applied research, crop and forage production, soil health and much more!
lean on and contact if they need help.This will help them feel at ease.
The Chinook Applied Research Association is accepting applications for: 2025 SUMMER RESEARCH TECHNICIANS
• Talk about the company. Describe the company’s mission, values and other information to help the employee develop a sense of belonging.
Vernon & Debora Brockmann (403) 676-2777 or cell (403) 664-0831
Email: vdbrock5@netago.ca OR Pritchard & Co. Law Firm, LLP
Attention: Glenda Bauer gbauer@pritchardandco.com (403) 527-4411
Responsibilities will include:
• Introduce the team. Set up a video chat to introduce the entire team.You can reserve extra time for the employee to get to know the colleagues they’ll be working with directly.
• Assisting with the establishment, maintenance, harvest and data collection from various applied research and demonstration projects
• Present your tools. Familiarize the employee with the tools, software and online platforms the company uses daily.
• Assisting with tours, field days and other extension events
Qualifications include:
• Follow up. Make sure the new employee receives feedback from their immediate colleagues in the first few weeks to help them adjust.The recruit should feel free to ask questions without fear of judgment.
• Student of an agricultural, environmental, science or other educational program
• Offer mentoring. Ensure the new employee knows they have someone they can
Tenders shall be marked “Brockmann Land Tender” and sent to or delivered prior to 12:00 noon MST on February 28, 2025 to:
Pritchard & Co. Law Firm, LLP
201,430 – 6th Avenue S.E. Medicine Hat, Alberta T1A 2S8
• Valid driver’s license
• Good communication skills, self motivated and organized
Are you looking for telecommuting employees to join your team? Do business with a recruitment service.
• Comfortable working both independently and in a team atmosphere
• Experience and/or interest in agriculture
Please submit resumes to cara-dw@telus.net or to Box 690, Oyen, Alberta T0J 2J0
Contact Dianne Westerlund for more information 403-664-3777 or cara-dw@telus.net
As the job market becomes petitive, it can be challenging employees. Here are four
Focus on communication. openly with your their concerns and Let them know they’re take them seriously.
The discount will be available at 142 front-country campgrounds across Alberta, including about 6,400 campsites for individual, equestrian, and walk-in tenting, along with other popular camping experiences. Seniors will have access to these sites that offer stunning, quieter experiences in less-crowded settings, allowing them to explore new areas without the pressure of fully booked campsites. Other types of camping such as group, comfort, seasonal and backcountry are not eligible for the discount.
Think about development. ten quit because of a opportunities.Therefore, so your employees tential,avoid boredom challenges.
Whether you already work in technology (IT) or are just starting studies,here are three qualities your success.
1. ANALYTICAL SKILLS As an IT employee, you’re often solve problems. Consequently, joy challenging yourself and looking novative solutions.You must rently curious to stay updated with technologies in a constantly evolving
2. COMMUNICATION SKILLS IT specialists must be able to communicate with their colleagues and clients.This
“Seniors appreciate every opportunity to enjoy and recreate in parks more affordably. By providing these discounts on select campsites more seniors can take advantage of hidden gem campgrounds across Alberta, promoting their health and well-being.”
Larry Mathieson, President and CEO, Unison
It’s rare to get your dream job try.Therefore, if you’re offered vel position, it’s necessary to ask it’s a good idea to accept it. Here tips to help you decide.
WHEN TO ACCEPT If the job is related to your area and allows you to use and develop it may be worthwhile.The job explore a field you’re interested you obtain a better position in the offer may also be attractive if for career development within
“For seniors who own RVs this discount will be a great way to access less popular campgrounds more affordably. Senior RV owners can now easily find the perfect spot to camp and explore more of what Alberta parks have to offer, whether they are out camping, hiking or exploring the road.”
Gerry Haracsi, executive vice-president, Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association Alberta
Telecommuting has become pular in recent years. to recruit qualified talent If your company is about new telecommuting employee, to do it.
• Talk about the company. company’s mission, formation to help the sense of belonging.
A list of campgrounds offering the discount is available at albertaparks. ca. Seniors can take advantage of this discount by booking through shop. albertaparks.ca, by phone or at first-come, firstserved campgrounds. Bookings for May 1 arrivals will open on January 31.
• Present your tools. ployee with the tools, platforms the company
• Offer mentoring. Ensure yee knows they have 4 strategies a
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A tax refund is just a missed opportunity A large refund means you’ve been overpaying your taxes throughout the year. I can show you steps to minimize income taxes and keep more of what you earn.
“Having investments” isn’t 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.
CRAIG PAETZ CFP, B.COMM, Executive Financial Consultant craig.paetz@igpwm.ca 403-664-8311
(403) 664-8311
craig.paetz@investorsgroup.com (403) 664-8311
PAETZ CFP, B.MGT. Associate Consultant steven.paetz@igpwm.ca 403-664-9494
PAETZ CFP, B.Mgt. Associate Consultant steven.paetz@investorsgroup.com (403) 664-9494
(403) 664-9494
Dry Land Butchering
CUSTOM SLAUGHTER AND PROCESSING
•offering quality slaughtering & processing of beef & pork
•fully inspected facility with certified meat cutters •meat cutting, curing and sausage making JUSTIN AUSMUS
306.628.3329
Benefits of fibre
BY JULIA ROWLAND
Fibre is a type of carbohydrate we do not digest. It comes from plant foods like vegetables, fruits, grains, legumes, nuts and seeds. Fiber can also be found in fibre supplements. Fibre can be in two forms: insoluble and soluble, which both provide health benefits. Soluble fibre may improve your health in a variety of ways, including:
• helping manage blood sugar
• lowering cholesterol
• softening stool if you are constipated
• creating formed stools if you have diarrhea or loose stools
• helping you feel full for longer
• helping increase healthy bacteria in your gut
• improving the health of your colon
• reducing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.
Insoluble fibre helps stool move through your bowels more quickly and keeps bowel movements regular. This keeps your digestive system healthy and may low-
Attention all artists!
Oyen & District Food Bank Association needs a logo. They have invited all students, Grade 5 and up, to participate in a contest for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Halfway Pizza and Convenience. They are looking for something simple, relating to what the
Classifieds
er your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers. Canadian women need 25 grams of fibre per day and men need 38 grams of fibre per day. Most Canadians are only getting about half that much. Here are some tips to help you eat more fibre:
• Have a vegetable or fruit at every meal and snack.
• Eat the skins or peels when possible.
• Use extra vegetables in casseroles, soups, stir-fries, and pasta sauces.
• Choose whole grain breads, cereals, whole grain pasta, quinoa, barley, bulgur, and brown rice.
• Add beans, chickpeas, and lentils to soups, casseroles, salads, and pasta sauce.
It is important to drink enough fluid when you eat a higher fibre diet. Drinking fluid will help keep your stools soft. Fluid includes water and other liquids such as milk, coffee, tea, broth, and soup. Aim to drink 9 to 12 cups of fluid each day.
Eating more fibre can improve your overall health. Just remember to increase your fibre intake gradually and drink lots of fluid to avoid digestive discomfort. For more information or to speak to a Dietitian, visit ahs.ca/nutrition or call HealthLink 811.
food bank does, and that can be used for years that will represent the association. Submissions can be by email: oyenfoodbank@gmail.com or by dropping off at Oyen FCSS office (in the dental clinic). Be sure to include your contact info. Deadline is March 3, 2025.
consultation. 1-800-3472540. www.accesslegalmjf. com.
CLASSIFIED AD RATES (20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Friday noon. 306-463-2211
considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $599 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna. com for details. 1-800-2826903, 780-434-8746 www. awna.com.
NEWTEC IRRIGATION. Looking to Hire: Travelling Salesperson. Agricultural Experience Preferred. TOP WAGES. Please call for more information: 306-260-9575.
SOUTHERN ALBERTA NEWSPAPER GROUP is looking for Mailroom evening staff. Lots of room for advancement within the company. Email rturner@ abnewsgroup.com for more information.
FOR SALE
COMING EVENTS
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2025 AUCTION
PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609, Email Us at sales@switzersauction.
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 80 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-2826903 ; www.awna.com; email classifieds@awna.com.
SERVICES
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/
We are honouring the beautiful life of our mother, Pauline (Polly) Hopkins. She passed away on December 6, 2024 in Gibsons, B.C., surrounded by loved ones.
Pauline (Grudecki) Hopkins
June 26, 1931 - December 6, 2024
Pauline was born to Louis and Victoria Grudecki on June 26, 1931 on the family homestead in Acadia Valley, Alberta. She grew up on the farm with her six siblings and attended a rural school until she moved to Empress to finish her education. Pauline lived in Alberta all of her life until moving to Sechelt, B.C. six years ago.
As a young woman, Pauline met her one and only love, Gordon. They were married on a bitterly cold day in 1953 and were life long partners for the next 70 years. Mom kept busy raising their five children, Sharon (Phil), Murray (Susann), Lenard (Patci), Myrna (Parker), and Lucille (Mike). Pauline is also survived by her 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, and sister, Antonia Shubert. She was predeceased by her husband Gordon and her great grandson, Theo.
Our Mom was a person of immense faith and throughout her life she always put the needs of everyone else before her own. She was a member of the CWL most of her life. Pauline had an incredi-
GROWING THROUGH GRIEF:
ble work ethic and found great contentment when being productive. In spite of having five children, Mom was proud to maintain an immaculate home. Throughout our childhood and beyond, Mom was known for her skills in the kitchen as she was an incredible cook and baker. Our family was fortunate to grow up with baked goods waiting for us whenever we came home. Pauline had a green thumb and worked as a florist for several years. Her appreciation of the beauty of Mother Nature was never more evident than when she moved to the coast.
Pauline loved to dance and listen to music! She and Gordon enjoyed Square Dancing for over 30 years. Mom also volunteered for the Calgary Police Service. Her greatest love was for her grandchildren. They were extremely important to her and one of the many ways that she showed her affection was by keeping the cookie jar full. Mom enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was in her element preparing meals for our large gatherings. She was loved by all that knew her and is missed beyond words.
Pauline’s family would like to express our gratitude to the wonderful staff at Christenson Village Cottage 3, for their loving care and compassion for “Momma Pauline”.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Family Church (Sechelt) on Thursday, July 17th @ 11 am, followed by a luncheon. All are welcome.
Making new memories
BY ANGELA CLEMENT
One of the things that can be really painful after losing a loved one is longing for things to be the way that they were. We want so badly to have our loved ones back so that we can experience this life with them by our side. We want them back for Christmas, New Years and all the special holidays. This yearning for what cannot be causes a lot of pain and anguish. We can get really stuck in this part of the grieving process. There is much suffering that comes from being in this space.
It is normal to want to relive the past in this way. Often we will beg and plead with God to make the pain go away or to bring them back for just one more day. Yet over time we start to realize that nothing is going to change the fact that they are gone. We wonder how we will ever continue on with the pain that is encompassing every facet of our experience. Yet surprisingly many have been able to transcend the pain and recreate a life of joy and happiness again.
Part of the process requires honoring our loved ones’ memory and living our lives in such a way that would make them so happy and proud. Blaine was a man who loved meeting people and interacting with anyone. He would strike up conversations with complete strangers in restaurants, on planes, or anywhere he could. He was genuinely interested in listening to others’ stories. As his wife and a natural introvert, I always marvelled at his ability to talk to anyone no matter what their background might be. When he transitioned, I was left to take care of things myself. It often meant I would have to reach out
for help and that required talking to people I did not know. Inviting complete strangers to be guest speakers to participate in my online grief summits was particularly scary. I had to really move out of my comfort zone and realize that there was nothing to fear. What was the worst thing that could happen? That they would say no?
This past weekend the kids and I along with members of the recreation board and community of Val Marie held a memorial curling bonspiel in honor of Blaine’s memory and his love of sports and of participating socially in the community. People were important to him and so it felt good to get together with his friends and family and just have some fun doing the things that he loved to do. It was a wonderful way to involve others in celebrating who he was.
We get to create our lives going forward. We have the free will and choice to make amazing things happen even after a traumatic loss. I have found it is not something you do alone, but with time and support, you can start to create new traditions and memories in honor of your loved one. It doesn’t have to be a big event either. It can be as simple as lighting a candle, taking a little trip somewhere, eating some of their favourite food or creating some type of little project in their honor. Life is about living. Our loved ones most certainly want us to live our lives fully and completely. They are watching and looking down and cheering us on as we move forward with the things you dare to dream of doing. What are your new dreams? Let’s see what we can do to help you make those come true. Let me know. angela@healingnenergy.world
As is a tale, so is a life: Not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters. – Seneca
Choosing health over corporate profits
BY VAMINI SELVANANDAN
January is a month when many of us promise we will try harder to become or stay healthy. We make New Year’s resolutions to eat better and lose weight. But by March or April, many of us feel deflated for not having enough willpower to maintain our commitment towards healthier eating.
Over the past few decades, the consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods has grown and rates of obesity have soared. Is this due to a collective decline in willpower or is there some other force at play thwarting our sincere attempts to eat better?
This year, to be successful in our quest for health, we must resolve to understanding and addressing the root causes of diet-related illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and even some cancers. It is time to address the elephant in the room. Corporations and shareholder interests powerfully shape our foodscape. A few large multinational corporations dictate what we eat, how much we eat and even where we eat.
The food industry engineers the taste of their products to appeal to our evolutionary preferences for salt, sugar and fat and invests in laboratories to create foods that are increasingly addictive and difficult to consume in small amounts. To maximize profits for shareholders, the food industry comes up with novel and enticing ways to increase calorie consumption. They ultra-process foods - adding chemicals and removing healthy nutrients - to “add value” and create higher profit margins on inexpensive food products like corn and soy.
ACADIA VALLEY
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.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 - SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
• Acadia Valley Ladies Bonspiel “Golden Girls”. To register call / text Jaime at 403664-7110.
BUFFALO
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15
• The annual Valentine’s Day Extravaganza will be held at the hall. Doors open at 6:30 PM and “Digging Fun” starts at the same time. Music begins at 8:00 PM. Come out and enjoy this family event.
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28
• Buffalo Ag Society presents Jake Mathews in concert at the hall. Doors open at 5:30 PM. Show starts at 7:00 PM. Tickets purchased for the December show will be hon-
Additionally, advertising of fast-foods and ultra processed food to children ensures that the food industry creates a taste for their products early in life and generates loyal lifelong consumers. Powerful lobbies and donations to political parties ensure that policymakers turn a blind eye to the health harms of many corporate practices. If we want our efforts to eat better or lose weight to pay off, we have to first recognize and then address these powerful corporate effects on our health. Governments need to regulate the food industry to protect their citizens, particularly children who are becoming increasingly obese through no fault of their own. Policymakers need to ban advertising of unhealthy foods to children. They need to tax sugar-sweetened beverages as several other countries in the world have done resulting in a corresponding decrease in consumption. Canadians desperately need healthy foods like fruits and vegetables to be subsidized so we can all afford them.
We have to remind our governments that we elected them to act in our best interests. It is the job of governments to protect people and empower them to live healthy and fulfilling lives. We need to ask all levels of government to do their job by standing up to corporations and reigning in their predatory practices. It will require courage, commitment and persistence on the part of lawmakers to take on corporations who will not give up their profits willingly. But governments cannot be idle while corporations ruin the health of Canadians.
Vamini Selvanandan is a rural family physician and public health practitioner in Alberta.
Nominations open for Alberta’s highest honour
Albertans are encouraged to nominate remarkable community members, leaders and innovators for membership in the Alberta Order of Excellence.
The Order is the province’s highest honour and recognizes citizens who have made a significant and lasting contribution to their communities. Members include Olympians, scientists, volunteers, leaders in business, and artists. 220 Albertans have been invested into the Alberta Order of Excellence since it was established in 1979.
Nominations are accepted year-round, but must be received by Feb. 15 to be considered for investiture this year.
Nominees must be Canadians citizens currently residing in Alberta and, if selected, must be able to attend the investiture ceremony. People cannot nominate themselves, their spouse or a member of their immediate family.
Information about the Order, including nomination guidelines, nomination forms and biographies of previous inductees is available on the Alberta Order of Excellence website.
oured and you can get tickets from Ag Society members.
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.
EMPRESS
TUESDAY, MARCH 11
• Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture and Leisure Society 2025 AGM. Memember Meeting 1:00-2:00 PM at the Village of Empress Community Hall. Membership is $5 / year. Join us.
SATURDAY, MAY 10
• Empress & District Fine Arts, Cultural and Leisure Society Plant & Pie Sale 10:00 AM2:00 PM. Empress Community Hall.
• Empress Community Yard Sales 9:00 AM3:00 PM. More than 10 families! Don’t miss it!
NEW BRIGDEN
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17SUNDAY, JANUARY 19
• New Brigden Family Funspiel. Friday Steak Supper. Booth open all weekend. Awesome prizes for all curlers. Call or text Chris for more info 403-664-8488.
OYEN
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 403-664-8688.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24
• Oyen United Church Soup and Sandwich 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. Adults $15, kids 6-12 $5, under 6 Free.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 - SUNDAY, JANUARY 26
• Oyen and District Curling Club 4th annual Keith Mitchell Memorial. Cash & team prizes. To enter call Brent 403-664-8868.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
• The Oyen Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting will be held 7:00 PM at the FCSS Youth Centre. Everyone is welcome to attend and dinner will be provided.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
• Fun Night for Members and their Guests at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre 7:00 PM until Midnight. Games and Socializing.BYOB and Snacks. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403-664-2462 for more information.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1
• Oyen and District Curling Club Jr. Bonspiel (Grade 4-9) $30 (includes lunch). Cash prizes. Enter teams with Jackie 403664-0157 before January 28.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5
• Regular Pot Luck and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors (50+) at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre. Supper at 6:00 PM and Meeting at 7:00 PM. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth at 403-664-2462 for more information.
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7 & 8
• Oyen & District Curling Club annual Ladies’ Bonspiel. To enter call Jackie (403) 664-0157.
- 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.