Donations coming in to the Oyen Food Bank
BY IMOGENE HAUCK
This month, FCSS had their Halloween for the Hungry. Wow!
Thank you all for participating. We did good! Thanks to the Badlands Academy for all their work.
Cash donations are coming in, and we are truly thankful. This week, we received $500 from Big Country Agricultural Society.
On Food Bank Day this month, we were lucky to have fresh veggies. There
were enough potatoes and cabbage for everyone. We love to have fresh food when it is donated.
The freezer is empty. Sometimes, it has fresh meat, but only if it is donated. We have decided to discontinue meat because of today’s prices. We give canned meat and vegetables. The bean products distributed provide protein.
On the cart in the photo are two large blue bags. They contain some of the small donated Christmas gifts.
Please watch for the Angel Tree going up soon in Oyen Home Hardware and pick up a child’s angel. That is the most loving feeling, to gift a child who otherwise may not receive a gift at Christmas time.
Cash donations or non-perishable food donations may be dropped at the FCSS Office, 313 Third Street East, Oyen. The office is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
God bless you all for participating in the Food Bank projects.
Bill Kolkman and Imogene Hauck stock the shelves at the Oyen & District Food Bank following the receipt of Halloween For the Hungry canvass. They also received a donation of fresh vegetables which were distributed with the monthly boxes. The cart displays small donated gifts that will be given out with the Christmas hampers.
PHOTO BY DIANA WALKER
B C A S
ANNUAL MEETING
4:00 - 8:00 PM @
To
Vendors
Truck Works Inc.
Calgary Connections – Part 2
BY BERNIE KREWSKI
These were some of the early settlers who passed away during the last half of 1966 as reported in the Calgary Herald and the Oyen Echo.
Goodburn - Mrs. Norah Beatrice Goodburn, aged 62, of the Mayfair Nursing Home in Calgary, died on July 19 after a lengthy illness. Born in St. Paul Kansas, Mrs. Goodburn moved to Oyen in 1918 and came to Calgary in 1925. Predeceased by her husband Arthur in 1951, she was survived by three brothers - William Hogan of Oyen, Eugene Hogan of Vancouver, and James Hogan, Kinsley, Kansas, one sister Mrs. Luella Frazier, Anthony, Kansas. Funeral services were held in Calgary.
Momb – Torlef (Ted) Momb died on August 8 at age 76. Mr. Momb homesteaded east of town in 1910 and retired in Oyen in 1960. Funeral services were held in the United Church. Surviving him were two sisters in Norway and a sister, Mrs. Oyen, in Calgary. There is no history of his life in Many Trails Crossed Here.
Gray – Mrs. Annie Matilda Gray of Ponoka passed away at the Ponoka General Hospital on September 17 at the age of 80. The late Mrs. Gray (nee Norris) was born in Mere Wiltshire, England, on September 22, 1885, and came to Sibbald in 1911 where she married Sidney Gray (Sibbald Community History, p. 222). They moved to Morningside in 1953 and retired to Ponoka in 1963. She was survived by her husband Sidney, daughters Mrs. Gwen Campbell of Oyen and Mrs. Albertha (Donald) Harris of Morningside, and eighteen grandchildren. Pallbearers were Frank, Reg, and James Campbell, Glen Knaus, Donald Langmaid, and James Turney. Interment was at the Fairview Cemetery in Lacombe.
Brown – Mrs. Josephine Brown, age 85, passed away on November 5, at the home of her daughter, Alma Yockey, in Zionsville Indiana. Mrs. Brown arrived in this area in 1922 and homesteaded in the Cappon district before moving to Oyen. Left to mourn, beside Alma, were daughters Hazel Ball, Cappon; Marie (Seth) Carson, Aldersyde, Alberta, Dorothy Ainslie, Edmonton, and son Nivien in Susanville, California (MTCH v. 1, p. 173). She was predeceased by her husband and daughter, Cora Bartley.
Burke – Funeral services were held in St. Joseph’s Anglican Church in Acadia Valley for Mrs. Alice Walker Burke, age 77, who passed away in Medicine Hat
Hospital on November 10. The Venerable J.W. Carter Archdeacon of Medicine Hat, assisted by Rev. Westfall of Oyen, officiated at the service. Interment followed at the Acadia Valley Cemetery. Alice was born July 3, 1889, at Durham Ontario and married Patrick Burke at Saskatoon in 1912. They homesteaded in the Empress/Acadia Valley district. Mrs. Burke was active in the Women’s Auxiliary and the Anglican Church. For the past eleven years she had been a resident of the Baptist Haven of Rest at Medicine Hat. She was predeceased by her husband in November 1946. Surviving was one daughter, Mrs. Lillian (Bert) Elliott of Calgary, sons Tom and Harold of Acadia Valley, four grandchildren, and a sister in Durham, Ontario (Times to Remember, pp. 151-152).
Rugsven – Carl K. Rugsven passed away in the Oyen Hospital on November 13 at the age of 79 years. He left Norway at the age of twelve to join a brother in the Dakotas. He came to Alberta in 1910 and homesteaded in the Acadia Valley and Oyen districts. Left to mourn his loss were his wife Annie Rugsven, sons Harvey of Youngstown and Albert and Harold of Acadia Valley, and daughter Ester (?) at Ashcroft B.C., as well as brothers and sisters in Norway, three grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. As noted in MTCH, v. l, p. 161. Carl’s name was changed from Karl K. Christofferson when he arrived in the United States to reflect the piece of land on which he was born in Norway.
Tomkins – William James Tomkins, age 76, died at High River on November 30. He was the beloved husband of Mrs. Mae Tomkins, High River, and father of one daughter, Mrs. Marjorie Pidhirney, Leslieville; two sons, Dean of High River and Gerald, Cereal, thirteen grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He farmed in the Oyen and Chinook districts from 1914 until retiring to High River in 1961. Funeral services were held in High River and interment in Mountain View Memorial Gardens.
Morrell – Lillian May Morrell, age 51, beloved wife of Francis Morrell of Calgary, died on December 24. She was born in Oyen, coming to Calgary twelve years ago. Besides her husband, she is survived by three sons, Allan and Brian of Calgary and Murray of Red Deer; four daughters, Mrs. Sylvia (H.) Berg, Mrs. Elaine (K.) Read, Joanne and Susan, all of Calgary, two sisters and one brother, and six grandchildren. Interment occurred at Queen’s Park Cemetery. More to follow on the Morrell family in a later issue of The Echo.
OPINION:
Neighbours helping neighbours instead of waiting for government help
BY JOAN JANZEN
A fellow helped a neighbour by doing some work. Overcome with gratitude, his neighbour said, “I’m so grateful I could marry you!” Afterward he told a friend, “I can’t believe it. You do something nice for someone and they threaten to ruin your life in return.”
There have been thousands of neighbours helping one another during the weeks that have gone by since North Carolina was struck by a hurricane. Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief organization, was on hand to offer help. “These are my neighbours,” Franklin Graham from Samaritan’s Purse said. “Usually, we’re working in other communities, but this is special to us because this is our home.”
Franklin was speaking to Dr. Phil McGraw on an episode of Phil in the Blanks. Dr. Phil spent time immersed in what was going on in support of the people in North Carolina.
Dr. Phil made a few observations as he visited a number of areas hit by the hurricane. “I haven’t heard one word that sounded like someone viewed themselves as a victim. Every one of them talked about it in terms of this is a challenge we need to face. They weren’t angry; they weren’t saying ‘poor me,’” he said. “They were saying thank you for what you’ve brought. And what can we do to help distribute and help others?”
The other thing he noticed was, “Everywhere we’ve gone, the person who met us was the pastor.” A volunteer by the name of Mary helped explain the process.
“Today, 1200 people showed up at the church where we were deployed out of,” she said. “Samaritan’s Purse had no idea how many people would show up, but they were able to quickly put people in groups and send them to work. We don’t have time to wait for the government to get it together. We just go and do what we can do.”
There can be close to 4,000 volunteers serving each week. After receiving their work orders, they begin shovelling knee-high mud out of basements, placing tarps on roofs, cutting out drywall, removing insulation, putting gravel in driveways, fixing roads and bridges,
“If you’re waiting for the government to show up, you’ll be waiting for a little while,” Franklin said. “It was neighbour helping neighbour in the middle of the storm. Neighbours helping people out of flooded houses or rescuing someone’s child.” He described the people from that area as having a country attitude that appreciates government, but at the same time, they don’t wait on them to save lives. “This isn’t about politics; it’s about trying to save lives and helping others on the road to recovery.”
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and cutting down trees.
“These are the things we do to earn the privilege to share why we do what we do and that God loves them and they’re not forgotten,” a volunteer explained.
Franklin considered it a privilege to help communities that had become totally isolated. “We’re the first to arrive and give them water, generators, battery power, supplies and things like that,” he said. Their help enabled the people to see they weren’t forgotten.
Dr. Phil watched the process unfold. Only after all the giving, caring and listening did Franklin Graham’s son, Edward, ask if he could pray for people. “By then, they were so willing, the circle couldn’t get tight enough,” Dr. Phil said. “It was so uplifting. And I’ve watched this live out at stop after stop that we’ve made.”
“We want to help people,” Franklin said. “I feel like this is what God has called me to do, and I’ll do it to the best of my ability.” He’s also training the next generation to carry on, as his son and daughter are hard at work.
“We have a lot of church members going out and talking to them, listening to their stories,” a volunteer said. “They’re telling us we’re giving them hope.”
Samaritan’s Purse connects with numerous other organizations in the recovery process. For example a business in Tennessee donated the use of Blackhawk helicopters, fuel, pilots and supplies at a value of over $300,000.00.
A fire and rescue volunteer said he cried more in two days than he had cried in fifteen years. “I realized God is in control,” he said. His team focuses on three phases. Phase one was search and recovery followed by the second phase of making sure home owners were safe. The third phase is sustainability over the months ahead.
Upon his arrival, Dr. Phil was quick to explain his reason for coming. “I’m not here to make a show,” he said. “I’m here to remind people what’s happening and to support this. Months down the road, people are still fighting this, but the media has moved on to the next headline and the next story.”
Franklin recalled that if there was a crisis 150 years ago, the church was always the first to respond. “Here in the mountains, you’ll see the church is
When Dr. Phil flew in with a plane loaded up with supplies, they were all wheeled into a huge store room, and dispersed into aisles much like a grocery store. Volunteers made packages, gathering up whatever families needed. Some of the supplies went into helicopters headed to regions that were heavily hit by the storm. Meanwhile cars were lined up outside waiting for supplies.
still the centre of these communities.” Neighbours like Samaritan’s Purse are often the first responders when disaster strikes.
Work on producing the Remembrance issue of the Echo was extremely remarkable - a great accomplishment for a weekly newspaper - thorough,
comprehensive, creative, a model for other weeklies to replicate! Congratulations on an excellent piece of work!!
Bernie Krewski, Edmonton
Pop89: Who wins?
BY MADONNA HAMEL
I tried not to watch the American election, but the great vortex of energy exerted by the entire world staring into the screen was too great a force to be resisted. Watching election results is like entering a bakery or a bar; how can you resist the allure of what’s on offer: instant mind-altering stimulation?
I was doing great all day – I took my walk, I worked on my novel, I read from another novel, far better than my own. I took pause to send a little prayer up to whatever God is looking out for America in this time of flux and chaos after a relentless election season summoning up equal parts terror and joy.
But by six o’clock, I knew the results would be coming in, and I clicked on my computer. Shortly thereafter, I started hunting my home for baked goods or beer. I needed a bag of cookies to knock me senseless. Or a 6-pack of IPA. But, the addict in me would not be fulfilled. Instead, I watched America act out, in telescoped time, the all-too-familiar scenario that is an addict’s merry-go-round. It starts with denial – an inflated sense of confidence that your side will prevail. If your side does prevail, you become frenetic and even a bit hysterical that you are getting exactly what you wanted, deserved, and expected. If your side does not prevail, you still behave frantically and frenetically. How can this be? Why is this happening? Either way, by the end of the night, if you are American, you will remind yourself – whether you are Donald Trump or Jimmy Kimmel – that you remain a citizen of the “greatest nation in the world.” You will prevail.
You fancy yourself that “shining city on the hill” that Reagan spoke of and, before him, a Puritan preacher
and, before him, that skinny Jewish rabbi –what was his name? Oh yeah – Jesus, who, in his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:14, proclaimed, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” He was speaking to his apostles, reminding them to be good examples of brotherly love and to remember – everyone is watching, like when you are on a hill looking down on everyone.
It says something about your divided country that the best you can do is chastise each other’s false moves and bad behaviour by reminding your fellow Americans that “the world looks up to us!” like some older sibling reprimanded by mom for not being a good example to the little ones.
Beginning in the 1970s, Ronald Reagan repurposed that line from the Sermon on the Mount. He built a powerful articulation of American exceptionalism – the idea, as he explained, “that there was some divine plan that placed this great continent between two oceans to be sought out by those who were possessed of an abiding love of freedom and a special kind of courage.” Since then, American exceptionalism – as summarized by the phrase “city on a hill”– has become both a reason and excuse for American behaviours of all sorts.
But, there is nothing exceptional or original about American exceptionalism; the “exceptional” British Empire took on the “burden” of civilizing the rest of the world. And before them, the “exceptional” Roman Empire justified every war of expansion it started and won by claiming the gods were on their side. Whether it’s God or the gods, it is darn near impossible to believe you have a right to call yourself #1 if you don’t truly believe you were chosen as an example to the rest of the world.
Watching the shock and dismay of saddened pundits after the election is as unnerving as watching the gloaters. Both sides seem to be out of touch with where, as a nation, they stand in the world. This does not surprise me as much as how they don’t seem to
Special birthdays celebrated this week
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello, everyone. It’s another week of seasons: rain, snow, wind, and sunny days. I think most of us are okay with that kind of weather because the residents are still outdoors walking.
The Oyen Lodge would like to welcome a new resident, Bonnie Hertz.
understand where they stand in their own country. However, as I continued to watch responses over the next few days, I was impressed by some journalists who have finally caught on that Trump may have won due to truths such as: a) rural America does not feel seen or heard beyond hick and hayseed cultural stereotypes and b) America still has a problem with women running for the presidency – Trump wins when women are his opponent and c) when a population is willing to overlook moral and spiritual bankruptcy to save them from possible financial bankruptcy anybody who promises prosperity – whether he intends to deliver or not – will win.
Maybe, just maybe, my fellow journalists in America need to leave the safe enclaves of their neighbourhoods and get a peak at how the other nine-tenths live. One such writer who has been doing this all along is George Packer, who wrote an article for Atlantic magazine defining America as being actually four Americas: 1) Free America, as in free market America 2) Smart America, as in the meritocracy that became the aristocracy of ivy league academics who have a tight hold on the conversation and keep it in the family –believing that higher education is the noblest pursuit c) Real America – the rural folks we mentioned earlier, along with their working-class compatriots with whom they may actually have very little in common with except they are struggling to pay mortgages and d) Just America – activists reminding the nation they live in an “unjust” America.
Whatever America you are rooting for, it’s important to remember that what makes America great is what makes EVERY country great: a mix of people with aspects of character that both charm and infuriate. Situated as we are, we Canadians are forced to look down on America and wonder how they will fare over the next four years with the man they, as a collective, won the role of their leader, the face of “the greatest country in the world.”
Monday morning started with exercises, followed by Phase Ten card games. This card game is a favourite among regular card players. In the afternoon, there was bingo. Door prizes were given for two blackouts.
Happy Birthday to Mona Belovoir, Donna Hogan (who had a special birthday), and to Madeline Nichols on November 4th.
Tuesday morning was the regular bus run downtown, followed by one-on-one with the residents. On Tuesday, the Halloween decorations came down, and some Remembrance Day décor went up.
On Tuesday afternoon, the residents enjoyed an ice cream parlour and then a resident council meeting. Resident council meetings are for residents to discuss old business and their concerns, and then they are presented to Gloria. Before supper hour Taylor Neilson played piano.
Wednesday from 10-2:00, Alberta Clothing was at the Lodge, so many residents did some shopping. It is so nice that these clothing companies visit the Lodge, for the convenience of the residents. Wednesday after lunch, the Legion members were at the Lodge to do some visiting, and in the afternoon, there were shuffleboard games.
Thursday morning was spent oneon-one with residents, followed by card games. Happy Birthday to Marvel Jorgenson, who also had a special birthday on November 7th.
Friday morning was spent exercising, followed by horse races. Friday afternoon was spent playing card bingo. Happy Birthday to Bev Haag on November 10th. Have a great long weekend, everyone, and a wonderful week.
Gene & Georgina Hogan November 7, 1964 With much love
OYEN LODGE REPORT
Dianne Spath
Jets shock NHL with blazing start
BY BRUCE PENTON
The National Hockey League is one month into its 2024-25 season this week and a number of interesting story lines have bubbled to the surface. Time for some analysis:
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
— The juggernaut Winnipeg Jets? Really? The Jets under first-year coach Scott Arniel were the last team to lose in regulation, running off eight consecutive victories before being stopped at home 6-4 by the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Jets, who bounced back with wins in their next two games, are getting their usual spectacular goaltending from last year’s Vezina Trophy winner Connor Hellebuyck, offence from the usual sources (Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, Nicolaj Ehlers and Josh Morrissey) but secondary scoring from less than expected players (Nino Niederreiter, Vladislav Namestnikov, Cole Perfetti). Arniel said he’s not happy with his team’s five-on-five scoring and that being too dependent on power play goals and tight penalty killing could be problematic down the road.
— A tale of two Alberta teams: Calgary Flames, from which little was expected, scooted off to a fast start while the Edmonton Oilers, lauded in many quarters as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender, found themselves stumbling out of the gate. The Flames, losers of only four of their first 11, are getting solid goaltending from Dan Vladar and Dustin Wolf while the Oilers were planning for surviving superstar Connor McDavid’s ankle injury, which was to keep him sidelined for up to three weeks.
— Reminder of Bobby Orr? Defenceman Cale Ma-
SPORTS TALK
kar of the Colorado Avalanche spent a good chunk of the first month in first place in the scoring race, leading some observers to reminisce about Bobby Orr winning the Art Ross trophy twice (1969-70; 1974-75). Makar figured in 50 per cent of Colorado’s first 38 goals through Halloween and with the likes of Nathan McKinnon and Mikko Rantanen spearheading a deadly power play, there’s no reason to think Makar’s point production will tail off significantly.
— Canadian goaltending woes: The Four Nations Cup will be staged in February and while Canada and the U.S. will be co-favourites over Sweden and Finland, the most frequent question about the Canadian team is ‘who plays goal?’ Recent NHL stats show the best Canadian netminder is Oilers’ backup Calvin Pickard, who is 11th. Jordan Binnington of St. Louis, Sam Montembeault of Montreal, Adin Hill of Vegas, Stu Skinner of Edmonton and Connor Ingram of Utah will be others considered. Oh, for the glory days of Carey Price, Roberto Luongo and Marc-Andre Fleury in their prime.
— Biggest disappointments? A tie between Nashville Predators and Boston Bruins. The Predators, who in the off-season acquired established snipers Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, proceeded to win only four of their first 11 games, averaging fewer than three goals a game. Marchessault had two goals in 11 games while Stamkos, a 556-goal man for his career, managed only two in the Preds’ first month. Boston, meanwhile, struggled to win only five games in 12 starts to open the season.
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Last season, the NY Giants played the Jets and managed just seven total yards passing in the game. My Grade 7 dance saw more progress made on passes.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Kyle McCord threw three touchdown passes to Pitt in the first half last night. Too bad he was playing for Syracuse.”
• Spotted on X (formerly Twitter): “It’s been announced that Yankee superstar Aaron Judge will be in Times Square this New Year’s Eve to help drop the ball.”
• RJ Currie again: “Many Canadians have been hit with paraskevidekatriaphobia: fear of Friday the 13th. A more common ailment in Canada is parkasevidekatriaphobia — fear of winter coats.”
• Comedy writer Brad Dickson of Omaha: “I just had my first trick or treater. The kid was facing the wrong direction, seemed totally confused, his shirt was inside out, he’s shouting ‘I hate Nebraska!’ I said, ‘Who are you supposed to be?’ The kid goes, ‘A Big Ten football referee.’”
• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe.com: “Meanwhile, NY Yankees, especially in Game 5 of the World Series, bring to mind a very old joke. What do the NY Yankees and Michael Jackson have in common? They both wore gloves on one hand for no discernible reason.”
• Another one from Hough: “For baseball fans who don’t like the Yankees or the Dodgers, suppose there’s something to be said for a World Series that is ‘nasty, brutal and short.’”
• Jack Finarelli on his sportscurmudgeon.com site, after Colts QB Anthony Richardson went to the sideline for one play because he was ‘tired’: “Hell, the beer vendors walking up and down the stadium steps could cry ‘tired’ as easily as an NFL QB.”
• Headline at the onion.com, ridiculing a Fox Sports baseball announcer: “MLB Adds Clock To Speed Up Joe Davis’ Commentary”
• Headline at fark.com: “Got $2 million to burn? Why not blow it all on an ‘Owner’s Experience’ package for the Mike Tyson-Logan Paul fight? On second thought, setting $2 million on fire is probably a smarter choice.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
Will the 4 Nations Cup have the same wow factor as the Canada Cup?
BY GREG BUCHANAN
Time is running short for bubble players who want to impress their countries’ management teams ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Just four weeks remain until rosters featuring 20 skaters and three goaltenders need to be finalized and submitted on Dec. 2, and just 100 until play begins.
The February tournament will be the first to bring together all of the top players from the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. That lengthy window has created a nearly blank slate, with only a few holdovers from hockey’s last best-on-best event.
With player evaluations still ongoing,
we’ve taken a crack at forecasting what each country’s roster could look like.
Canada is so deep at centre, it can contemplate shifting last season’s Hart Trophy winner to the wing. And if it’s not Nathan MacKinnon moving over, it’ll probably be 50-goal man Brayden Point. Given how little preparation time teams will get before the tournament, there’s comfort in familiarity for Canada with two defence pairings that have spent considerable time together in the NHL, plus the Zach Hyman-Connor McDavid duo from Edmonton and Brad Marchand–Sidney Crosby duo from the 2016 World Cup.
The goaltending is a major question mark for a country accustomed to lining up in front of surefire Hall of Famers at
best-on-best events. Jordan Binnington and Adin Hill have at least both played their share of pressure-packed games — each winning a Stanley Cup — and the competition for playing time between them should remain open right up until February. Basically, the hottest hand gets the job. I went with Cam Talbot at No. 3 based on his strong start to the season in Detroit.
The toughest call(s): When you’re picking a Team Canada, you’re always going to be leaving multiple top forwards off the roster. In this case, they include Alexis Lafrenière, Mark Scheifele, Connor Bedard, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares and Quinton Byfield. The defenseman I had the toughest time passing on was Noah Dobson, who gets beat
out by the experience of Josh Morrissey and the flexibility of MacKenzie Weegar. I opted for Weegar as the No. 7 because of his comfort playing either side of the ice. McDavid has come to having a NHL mentor like Crosby would be Duncan Keith. Keith was acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks back in 2021, and the two-time Stanley Cup champion and Olympic Gold medalist did have a positive impact on McDavid, but with much respect to Keith, playing on the same ice surface and sharing a dressing room with Crosby could be transformative for the Oilers captain.
If you’re as old as me, you may remember the Canada Cup. I don’t know if the 4 Nations Cup will have the same wow factor, but it won’t be far off.
Oyen & District Christmas
Farmers’ Market
is on Saturday, November 23rd, 2023 from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
LARGE VARIETY OF VENDORS
Lunch provided by the High School Text or call Delaine at 403-664-0320 for more information.
Mactavish & Company
403-528-4995
523c North Railway St SE, Medicine Hat, AB tmactavish@mactavishco.ca • www.mactavishco.ca
Terry Lynne Mactavish
Good Bye Little Man Be at rest until we meet again.
Born August 14, 2024, 3-month-old Maes Allan Grant Webb of Olds, Alberta passed away Thursday, October 24, 2024.
Maes Allan Grant Webb August 14, 2024 - October 24, 2024
We will all miss you: mother Chanara, father Mitchell Webb, sister Winnie; special uncles Darrin, Damon and Angie and their children Zack, CC and Gabriel Webb; grandparents Trevor and Bertha (Hauck) Webb; great grandparents Dwight and Imogene Hauck; and all your extended family; plus all your parents’ friends who spent so much time with you.
A Memorial Service was held November 2 at 11 a.m. in the Hope Pointe Community Church of the Nazarene in Olds, Alberta. Officiants were Reverend Darlene Hyatt and Reverend Stephanie Austin. If you desire, a donation may be made in Maes’ memory to Alberta Children’s Hospital, 28 Oki Drive, Calgary, AB T3B 6A8.
Dry Land Butchering
The mention of my child’s name May bring tears to my eyes, But it never fails to bring Music to my ears. If you are really my friend, Let me hear the beautiful music Of his name. It soothes my broken heart And sings to my soul. (Author unknown)
‘Awakening Through Grief’ offers healing
BY JOAN JANZEN
Angela Clement launched her new book ‘Awakening Through Grief’ on November 1st. Three years ago, she retired from her teaching career and moved to Maple Creek. After losing her husband to colon cancer in 2021, she began her deep journey of grief and healing.
Angela Clement from Maple Creek has recently launched her new book ‘Awakening Through Grief - A Spiritual Journey of Healing and Transformation After Loss’. SUBMITTED
“I really wrote the book for myself; it was probably the best thing I could have done,” she said. “But thinking I might help others really added another layer of excitement. If I had been given a book like this, it would have really helped.”
Consequently, Angela utilized her educational background to craft a book that included advice to help people move through their grief. “Everyone’s journey is unique, but I put in as many things as I could that really helped me, and I hope there’s something for everyone,” the author said.
In her book, she explains how the mind works, as people find comfort in knowing exactly what is happening in their brain when they are grieving. “Grief forces people to look at who they truly are. That’s why I called the book ‘Awakening Through Grief,’ she explained.
The book takes readers through the four phases of grief:
• Initial loss
• Opening and healing of the heart
• Acknowledging your grief
• Finding purpose and expansion
“There are a lot of journal prompts because it’s important for people to see those thoughts and process
them,” she said.
Because she encourages readers to experience the healing power of community, she has questions set up on her website for anyone who wants to start a book club. She also offers a 30-minute session for book club members to see if there’s anything she can do to help.
“We don’t have to face this journey alone. Together, we can find the strength to carry on,” Angela advised.
After Angela lost her husband, she said she didn’t know where to go or what to do. “It seems like people just leave you to figure it out,” she said. But she got to the point where she knew she needed help, and a quote by a grief coach resonated with her. The coach noted that people say you’ll grieve for a lifetime, but that’s not true.
This prompted Angela to take a six-month course, during which she learned about various healing modalities, such as reiki, shamanic journeying, ancestral healing, and more. She said, “In my book, I discuss the healing modalities I’ve explored and how they can help us navigate grief with grace and resilience.”
Angela has been a grief coach for the past two years and has a core group that enjoys being together. “Lots of them have gone on to write their own books or are helping other people. It’s fun to see the transformation,” she said.
The pages of Angela’s book include many helpful tools for her readers. She stresses the importance of recognizing the linear process of grieving: some days are bearable, and others can be overwhelming. Even if those grieving can hold up during the day, the nights can seem overwhelming. Angela recalls filling her journal with memories during those times. “This journey of grief is not about forgetting; it’s about learning to carry the love we had for them alongside our pain,” she said.
Although her book launched only a few weeks ago, Angela said it’s already gaining momentum. “I always said if it helps one person, it’s worth it,” she said. However, it’s sure to help many, many people join the conversation about healing, love, and the path forward.
L.R. Webb
Chartered Professional Accountant will
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Let Us Remember
BY DAMIEN KUREK
Battle River-Crowfoot MP
Every year on November 11th, Canadians gather at the National War Memorial, community centres, and Cenotaphs across the country to honour the brave men and women who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today. So many servicemen and women gave their lives so that we could live in peace and security. They fought for the Canadian dream, ensuring we have a democracy, freedom of speech,
practice our chosen religions, and have freedom of movement. In a world that continues to be plagued by war, conflict, and threats to freedom, these liberties are not a universal guarantee, and we must not take them for granted.
Therefore, as we reflect on the historical conflicts that shaped our nation, I encourage everyone to delve into the lives of the Canadians who served in the Armed Forces, making such freedoms possible. These soldiers had lives much like ours; they left behind families—parents, siblings, spouses, and children—who faced the heart-wrenching uncertainty of not knowing if their deployed loved one would return. For those that did return, the battle didn’t end there; they carried visible and invisible scars that continued to impact their everyday lives. We must remember this struggle, and acknowledge the role that families, friends and communities played in healing those scars.
ACADIA VALLEY
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
• Acadia Valley Christmas Market 3:00-7:00 PM. Supper 5:00-7:00 PM. 23 vendors. Cold ham plate supper provided by Pat’s Kitchen.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14
• Christmas in the Valley. Starting at 10:30 AM with breakfast. See you there!
ALSASK
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
• Alsask Lioness Christmas Craft and Trade Show 1:00 - 4:00 PM at the Alsask Community Hall (Main Street). Admission: $5. Door Prizes, Coffee, Tea, Dessert and Shopping! Tables available for $20. Contact Lorraine Wilke. Everyone welcome!
BUFFALO
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1
• Christmas in the Country Craft Market from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the hall. Lunch will be sold. Contact Gwen 403-502-3054 for tables and info.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7
• Buffalo Ag Society will present Jake Mathews in Concert at Buffalo Hall 7:00 PM.
CEREAL
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
• Cereal Turkey Supper 5:30 - 7:30, Santa vis-
We must also honour those currently serving around the world, putting their lives on the line to safeguard democracy. Every day they face danger and conflict with bravery and perseverance, strengthened by the hope of a peaceful future. We also remember the families and loved ones of these troops, who face the daily toll and separation from their loved ones.
Additionally, we recognize and re-
member the countless individuals working tirelessly on the sidelines to support our troops, both historically and presently. Without the support of these people, our troops would not be able to perform their duties.
On this day of remembrance, I urge you to learn about the contributions of those previously mentioned in all the capacities that they have served. For educators, parents, and guardians, it is vital to teach our youth about Canada’s historic and ongoing conflicts. The stories of those who fought for our country are more relevant than ever and must not fade with time. As we remember the past, we must also consider the lessons it imparts. Knowledge is power and ignoring these lessons will only lead to us repeating history. Educating our children and grandchildren about the importance of peace, diplomacy, and the value of sacrifice is crucial. By understanding and imparting the importance of these sacrifices, we foster a sense of gratitude and responsibility in future generations.
This November 11th let’s take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices of those who came before us and those who serve today, but let’s also make sure that attitude of remembrance endures all year long. Let us honour their legacy by ensuring their stories are shared and remembered. By doing so, we can help secure a peaceful future for Canada and the world.
it, 6:00 - 7:30 PM, & Christmas Market 4:00
- 8:00 PM (with more than 12 vendors & 24+ tables of wares)
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26
• Ham & Turkey Bingo 7:30 PM. All ages welcome at the CJ Peacock Centre.
- Cereal Cottages Coffee on Tuesdays 10:30
- 11:30 AM
- Cereal Board of Trade Bingo Mondays at 7:30 PM. Last 2024 date Nov 25th CJPC (restart in April 2025)
- 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.
NEW BRIGDEN
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29
• Winter Wonderland. Call/text 403-6640172 to book a table.
OYEN
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024
• 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.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2024
• 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.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29
• Fun Night for Members and their Guests at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Recreation Centre 7:00 PM until midnight. Games and socializing. BYOB and Snacks. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403-6642462 for more information.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4
• Christmas Supper at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre. Supper at 6:00 PM. Entertainment to follow. Supper sponsored by Oyen and District Seniors Association. Purchase tickets in advance from Jessie Battrum 403-664-2515.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10
• 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. - Drop in Pickleball Mondays 7:00-9:00 PM at South Central High School - Walk Wednesdays 10:00-11:00 AM every Wednesday until October 30th. Socialize & Exercise. Snacks afterwards. Meet at NEW Adult Learning Office 105 3rd Ave (South Entance) SCHS.
- Junior League Curling (Grade 6 & up) Mondays after school. Session 1 November - mid December. Enter teams to Jerry Logan 403664-6001.
- 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.
YOUNGSTOWN
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
• Annual Friends of the Youngstown Library Youngstown Christmas Mini-Fair 3:00-7:00 PM Youngstown Community Hall. For more information or to book a table, contact Renee at 403-857-8322.