The Oyen Echo - April 18, 2022 by yourwestcentral

Message from the Fire Chief: Spring Fire Prevention

With the warmer weather upon us, we look forward to the season changing and enjoying spring as a time of growth and renewal. I too am looking forward to a changing of season as my time with the Special Areas draws to a close. It is with mixed feelings that I share my plans to retire from the Special Areas effective July 15, 2022. This spring message will be a bit of a different from my usual one as I wanted to take this opportunity to share my reflections and thanks for my time with the Special Areas.

I have enjoyed my forty years of employment working in the Special Areas and have seen and experienced many changes over these years. From changing faces to evolving processes, it seems as though all things shift and grow over time. I considered myself fortunate to have gained employment with our local municipality, and to have served my community. Special Areas afforded me the opportunity to move up through the organization and gave many different challenges along the way. If not for this variety, I don’t believe I would have enjoyed a forty-year career with the same employer. During my time here at Special Areas, I have had the chance to serve under three different Chairman, numerous managers, and worked with quite a cast of characters, I mean colleagues. I never sought out the fire service, by fate certainly moved me there.

There have been countless changes in the fire service over my career, but the core mission has never changed: serve the people and answer the call.

When I began my leadership role in the Special Areas Fire Services, my goal was to support a culture of professionalism and public service. I felt – and still feel – giving our volunteer firefighters the tools and support they need to deliver a high level of professional service is key to building a culture we can all be proud of. I often wonder if the freedom afforded to me in my early days as Fire Chief was due to not knowing much about the fire service, or if there was a sense that changes were needed. Regardless, I took that opportunity and ran with it to impact the level of

service being provided and to make sure our fire services were sustainable. Changes were needed in our equipment and facilities to accommodate the larger trucks which became a necessary part of the fire service. Recruitment and training were key to building a sustainable fire service bigger than the sum of our individual parts. With limited resources, both human and financial, we are incredibly fortunate the men and women of our fire services are so committed to serving their communities and helping their neighbours. Without volunteers, Special Areas Fire Services would fail to exist.

As the types of incidents we were called to contin-

ued to change, we realized we could not afford not to train. In 2005, the East Central Emergency Training Partnership was created to support the local instruction and training of local volunteer firefighters. This partnership, which includes fire services throughout our region, has delivered high quality instruction to hundreds of local volunteers at a fraction of the cost. It has allowed our volunteer fire services to access specialized training which would otherwise require significant travel time and expense. I expect this group will continue to provide key leadership and support to fire services and members in the years to come.

A heritage of volunteerism

National Volunteer Week occurs every year during the third week of April, and this year those dates fall from April 17 to April 23. Some organizations choose to celebrate National Volunteer Month during April as a time to recognize volunteers and encourage volunteerism.

Without our volunteers, we wouldn’t have some of the programs that many communities rely on today. It’s an excellent opportunity to highlight community programs and remember the heritage of volunteerism passed down to us throughout the past decades.

In 1939, during WWII, many young men in the Eatonia district joined the armed forces. A group of ladies in Eatonia felt compelled to form an organization that would send parcels to the enlisted boys. This was particularly necessary since some families couldn’t af-

ford to send parcels to their sons during the depression. The women’s group formed an executive, all of which held their respective positions until the war was over.

They formed four groups of about ten helpers and a leader and met every second Thursday. Their biggest task was conducting fundraisers to raise money to buy items to put in the parcels. Every month one of the groups sent parcels overseas.

They also send parcels overseas to help people living in bombed-out areas. From January 1941 to June 1941, they sent 23 comforters, 19 crib quilts, three layettes, 42 girls’ dresses, five afghans, eight baby jackets and two boy’s suits.

The above information was obtained from the history book “A Past to Cherish - History of Chesterfield, Newcombe, Eatonia, Laporte, Mantario.”

THURSDAY, JUNE 30:

Scavenger Hunt • Movie in the Park

FRIDAY, JULY 1:

The Creeland Dancers • Dean Smith Band Fireworks • Time Machine

Wheat Kings Ball Game Ball Park Grand Opening

SATURDAY, JULY 2:

Pancake Breakfast • Parade Show & Shine

Centennial Marketplace

Eatonia Centennial Cabaret presents:

The Steve McQueen Band featuring Mitch Larock & The 4:54 Band

Friday & Saturday Supper

Catered by

Jackie’s Delicious Delights

SUNDAY, JULY 3:

Pancake Breakfast • Sunday Service Community Jam Session • Farewell BBQ

Comfort for patients at the end of life is very important to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation. At a cost of $16,064 this Hillrom Centrella Smart Bed with its extensive list of features will help to create a calm, peaceful and comfortable environment. | SUBMITTED

never know what will be created when someone is armed with a sewing machine. I remember when my mother would sew everything from curtains to clothing. Back then it was more economical to sew household items and kids clothing, and every last scrap of fabric was put to use. Which helps to explain an old photo of myself at about eight years, standing in front of those homemade floral curtains, wearing a dress made of the exact same fabric. You couldn’t tell the difference between my new dress and the new curtains; they both looked the same.

Recently a young journalism student pointed out how most media outlets appear the

OPINION

CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen

Is silence golden?

same. He was attending a “Disinformation and Erosion of Democracy Conference”, where a panel was available to answer questions. The young man, decked out in a suit and tie, confidently stepped forward, to ask his question.

“My name is Christopher Phillips. I’m a first year Journalism student,” he said. “My question is for Mr. Brian Stelter. You’ve all spoken extensively about Fox News being a purveyor of disinformation, but CNN is right up there with them. They had the Russian collusion hoax; they had the Sandman hoax. They smeared Justice Kavanaugh as a rapist, and they also smeared Rittenhouse. They smeared Nick Sandman as a white suprema-

cist, and yet they dismissed the Hunter Biden Laptop affair as pure Russian disinformation. With mainstream corporation journalists becoming little more than apologists, and cheerleaders for the regime, is it time to finally declare that the tenant of journalistic ethics is dead or no longer operative? All the mistakes of the mainstream media, and CNN in particular, seem to magically all go in one direction. Are we expected to believe that is is all just random coincidence?”

It was a great question from a bright and inquisitive young man. It was also an excellent opportunity for the panel to admit that the media could do better. They could have acknowledged the examples the student gave were clear cut instances where they should have been more transparent. They could have even used this as an opportunity to apologize for their mistakes, but what did they do?

Brian Stelter laughed nervously and quipped, “Sorry, it’s time for lunch!” It was clearly meant to deflect atten-

tion from the student’s question. Brian Stelter is an anchor, and chief media correspondent for CNN. He continued to say, “I think you’re describing a different channel than the one I watch. That’s a popular right wing narrative.” This was yet another popular response, to label any queries as right wing, dismissing them yet again.

However Stelter wasn’t done speaking. He shared the instance when a Fox News correspondent was wounded in Ukraine and the CNN news crew stopped what they were doing and tried to help get the body out, and find the dead crew members. Although this was the correct response for the CNN news crew, it was also the expected response when there are wounded people on the ground. It was also irrelevant to the young man’s question, and yet another effort to dismiss it.

Another college student stepped forward to pose a question. “I’m Daniel Smith. I’m a first year student at the University of Chicago,” he said. “Referring to Hunter Biden, do you think the media acted inappropriately when they instantly dismissed the laptop as Russian disinformation? What can you learn from that, and ensure that what we label is truly disinformation and not reality?”

Miss Applebaum, a journalist, responded, noting that Hunter Biden’s laptop was tru-

ly irrelevant. And so the questions were swiftly dismissed rather than answered, and they conveniently ran out of time for more.

Legacy media is dependent upon advertising revenue from big business and corporations, who play a significant role in controlling information. Pharmaceuticals also donate 75 percent of their advertising revenue. Does this help to explain some of their news coverage?

Why does legacy media give huge publicity to some stories, while it is completely silent on others? There’s an old expression that says “silence is golden”, but is it?

Former MP, Brian Peckford lives in Vancouver, and noted there are thousands of people holding rallies every weekend at the legislative buildings at Victoria city.

“One weekend they had 13,000 people. Victoria city itself is only about 100,000 people,” Peckford said. What’s even more amazing is that no one in the rest of Canada hears about it. “Broadcast media and print media don’t carry it. You have to find it on alternate media,” he explained.

It looks like silence may not be golden after all, and the need for young journalists to continue ask questions is greater than ever. A quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer comes to mind. He helped Jews flee Germany in WWII, and was killed as a result. He said, “Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.”

Special Areas Fire Chief announces retirement plans

In my time as the Special Areas Fire Chief, what fire services do – and what is expected of us by the public – has dramatically changed. In some respects, Fire Services is not an accurate reflection of all we now do. We continue to have those traditional “fire” calls – grass, vehicle, and structure fires along with motor vehicle incidents. But the demands on our volunteer fire services have shifted from traditional fire calls to a large volume of medical response calls. These can include anything from potential drug overdoses to covid to medical issues related to an aging population. These calls often come with additional stress and unknown risks to first responders, including exposure to infectious diseases, illicit activity, weapons, and other drug-related risks.

Beyond the calls changing, I have also seen changes in how quickly fire calls can progress. Twenty years ago, structure fires could take up to 20 minutes to become fully involved; now it can take as little as 3 minutes. Changes in the materials used to build houses and structures means more synthetic furnishings and construction products. These changes don’t just translate into less time to respond, they also mean more toxins and more hazards for our first responders and the public.

It’s not just our physical world that has changed, but also the way we create and share information. Social media – or as I like to call it “real time data” – has transformed how we do our work and how we respond to emergencies. It can be a powerful tool to inform and to harness a community. It can also be a source of misinformation and division. As a part of our evolving fire service, we have learned to harness this tool to provide consistent and credible information and to help build those relationships which connect us all together. I expect this will continue to evolve and grow as our digital world continues to impact our physical one. Another way technology has transformed our fire services is in our 911 dispatch. Later this year, 911 services will transform with the introduction of Next Generation 9-1-1 (or NG911). It will be introduced in Alberta and BC as a first in the world and will allow callers to provide dispatch with information via text including photos and videos.

Reports To: Public Works Foreman (CAO in their absence)

Hours of Work:

This critical information can then be shared to first responders to help assess and help with what resources are required at the incident.

Our emergency world just keeps getting bigger, and the challenges keep getting more complex. This means we need to keep expanding our partnerships from police and EMS to other organizations like AHS, AEMA, Alberta Agriculture & Forestry, CFB Forces, industry partners, and mutual aid partners. In 2021, a regional emergency management group was created which includes all municipalities in the Special Areas as well as the MD of Acadia. We have seen how emergencies have increased in frequency, scale, and complexity. Responding independently from one another is not sustainable, and collaboration and coordination is our path forward. This partnership supports that new model and helps us develop those critical relationships. If there is one thing I have taken away from my experiences in emergency management, it’s that developing relationships ahead of time is invaluable to help deliver effective, efficient, and responsive service.

Regarding relationships, I have so much respect for those who Answer the Call.

The challenges and demands put on firefighters makes me so proud of the work they do. They are the epitome of public service – volunteers who give of themselves, their time, and their skills to serve the public. They do it selflessly and professionally, and I feel privileged and humbled by their service.

Before I close, it’s fitting I put in one last plug for FireSmart. This idea of fire prevention is so key to helping our communities become more prepared and resilient. Fire prevention doesn’t need to cost a lot of money. It can be as simple as fire guards in the spring, keeping combustibles away from structures, and keeping yards well trimmed and maintained. Simple things like mowing grass and putting a fire break of non-combustible materials like gravel around buildings can help save barns, shops, and homes. Over the last few years, I have had the privilege to see some of these fire prevention tactics being used throughout our region by farmers, ranchers, homeowners, and community members. I have seen fire guards and headlands being maintained throughout the fire season. I have noticed discers and water trucks parked in fields during haying and harvest. I have seen farmyards that are trimmed and maintained, and hay stacked in multiple spots all with fire guards in place. I am so pleased to see this shift as fire responses come at a cost, both to the public and to firefighter safety. Fire prevention is all our responsibility, and we all have a part to play in reducing risks and mitigating hazards.

I will close with a “Thank You” to all our brothers and sisters who Answer the Call as volunteer firefighters in the Special Areas. This includes our Acadia

Valley firefighters who I have always considered to be part of our fold.

Mutual aid means being there for your neighbour, and I want to thank our neighbouring municipalities who come on a moment’s notice to help: Starland County, Drumheller, Cypress County, Count of Newell, City of Brooks, County of Paintearth, MD of Provost, and CFB Suffield.

I want to extend a special thank you to Chief Mohl, and to the Hanna Fire Department, for providing the foundation from which we were able to grow the Special Areas Fire Service.

To our retired Chiefs – thank you for your guidance and mentorship.

To our current Chiefs – thank you for your leadership and service.

To the men and women of our fire service – thank you for your dedication and passion. With you I would like to share a quote from Mark Esper I have returned to often in my career as a firefighter - “Stay focused on your mission, remain steadfast in your pursuit of excellence and always do the right thing”.

To my Deputy Chief Rob Palmer. Thank you for your work and for your friendship. Our times and calls together will be forever remembered and cherished.

And to the staff, management, and elected officials of the Special Areas Board – it was an honour working here with you. It has been said that “People Make the Difference” and working with you over the past forty years has shown me how true that statement is. Thank you.

I’m going to sign off this – my last fire prevention message as Special Areas Fire Chief – by transcribing a typical radio dispatch signoff, just as I would do when leaving an incident.

SA Fire Chief: Red Deer Dispatch this Special Areas Fire Chief, “Over.”

Dispatch: This is dispatch, Go Ahead, “Over”

SA Chief: Dispatch I’m going to transfer scene command over to Acting Special Areas Fire Chief Palmer, “Over”

Dispatch: Dispatch copies, Transferring command to Acting Special Areas Fire Chief Palmer, “Over”

SA Chief: Thanks dispatch for being that voice no one sees, but the one we hear on all of our calls. For meeting all of our demands and requests, is truly appreciated. Calm, competent and Professional all the way. Special Areas Fire Chief, “Out”

Dispatch: You’re welcome, Dispatch “Out”

Phone Home: V.M. Hi Crystal, Just leaving scene, I will be home for Supper. See you then!

(Thanks, Dave, for always giving that reminder to call home)

Take Care, Keep Safe, and Yours in Fire Prevention, Glen Durand, (Ret.) Special Areas Fire Chief

Full Time, normal hours 8:00 am. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday. Overtime hours may be required. Daily hours may fluctuate due to operational requirements.

Remuneration: Salary Grid - Based on qualifications.

Position Summary:

The primary purpose of the position is to facilitate the delivery of public works and water and sewer services to the Town of Oyen. The position performs a wide variety of duties, including but not limited to: installation, maintenance and repair or upgrade of all municipal infrastructure, including roadways, sidewalks, water and sewer lines, water distribution system, wastewater system, airport, and signage. A detailed job description is available upon request form the Town Office.

Experience/Assets:

- Heavy Equipment Experience - Air Brake Endorsement - Willing to be on call

- Team Player - take directions - Capable of heavy lifting

- Public Works Experience preferred (or willing to take courses)

Closing Date: Until position is filled.

Please forward resumes to: Debbie Ross, Chief Administrative Officer Town of Oyen, Box 360, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 Phone: 403-664-3511 • Fax: 403-664-3712 • email CAO@oyen.ca

We thank all applicants in advance for their interest, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. POSITION POSTING PERMANENT, FULL TIME (SUBJECT TO PROBATION) Public

NOTICE FOR SALE BY TENDER

Tenders are invited by Beaumont Church LLP on behalf of the owners of the lands, for the purchase of two (2) quarter sections of which is legally described as follows:

MERIDIAN 4 RANGE 6 TOWNSHIP 22

SECTION 33

QUARTER SOUTH EAST

EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS

AREA: 64.3 HECTARES (159 ACRES) MORE OR LESS and

MERIDIAN 4 RANGE 6 TOWNSHIP 22

SECTION 33

QUARTER SOUTH WEST

EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS

AREA: 64.7 HECTARES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS

The land is located in Special Area No. 3, Alberta, near Oyen, Alberta. Tenders shall be in writing and accompanied by a cheque of 10% of the purchase price. Upon opening of tenders, the successful tenderer, if any, shall have a period of thirty days in which to pay the balance of the purchase price, failing which the deposit shall be forfeited. The purchaser shall be required to obtain title insurance in connection with the purchase of lands and the tender shall state that the purchaser shall obtain and pay for title insurance.

The highest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.

Tenders are to be submitted to Yvonne Williamson, Beaumont Church LLP, Barristers and Solicitors, #300, 2912 Memorial Drive SE, Calgary, Alberta, T2A 6R1

Tenders will be opened at 1:00 p.m. on May 12, 2022. For further information contact Pamela Zanella at (206) 947-2355 or Yvonne Williamson at 403-264-0000

Highly pathogenic avian influenza: Minister Horner

Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development

Nate Horner issued the following statement on positive cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Alberta flocks:

“Recently, Alberta poultry farms have tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which was previously detected in migratory waterfowl, backyard flocks and commercial poultry flocks in the eastern United States, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and in a wild bird in Vancouver.

“Albertans can be assured there is no risk to food safety and that the risk to human health is extremely low.

“The quick discovery of these cases is a testament to the effectiveness of our disease surveillance and response system and the commitment of our poultry producers.

“The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is leading the investigation and response. Alberta has supported the CFIA with testing

By Sarah Smith

and mapping, and we have offered our help wherever possible and needed.

“We are in regular contact with the CFIA, industry, producers and other stakeholders to ensure a timely, coordinated and effective response.

“This case is an important reminder of the importance of strict biosecurity measures and

April 2nd – April 8th

Hello everyone!

Another week has flown by, with it a crazy storm, and also some sunny days too. We were quite busy this week on Monday we started off our mornings with some exercises and a few rounds of sequence, rolling into the afternoon a game of bingo. Tuesday the art class painted an Easter egg landscape, finishing off the day with a birthday celebration for our birthdays this month, we had coffee, tea and

early detection. HPAI is a reportable disease, so if you suspect or confirm a case in your flock, you are required to report it to the CFIA or the Office of the Chief Provincial Veterinarian.

“This is an incredibly difficult time for the affected producers. We appreciate the steady support of all stakeholders as we continue working together to resolve this issue.”

of course some ice cream cake. Wednesday and Thursday we reserved for our baking team, they baked the days away and filled the lodge with a delicious aroma of yummy cookies! On Friday we finished off our week with a morning round of horse racing and had our bake sale for our residents in the afternoon!

April 11th – 14th

Hello everyone! What a cold week it has been, we have been staying indoors and out of the wind as much as possible to stay warm.

On Monday we always start our week off with some exercise

classes and then finish the day off with a game of bingo. Tuesday was international space day travel; we made watercolor planets and played some fun trivia games all about space! Wednesday we are fortunate to have our morning church, as well as some more exercises. Finishing the day the residents got to make their very own handmade soap. Thursday we had our final exercises of the week and finished off the afternoon with a few rounds of Mexican Train Dominos!

I hope veryone had a wonderful Easter, filled with family, friends and good food!

The Municipal District of Acadia #34 is looking for 2 summer Agricultural/Public Works Assistants

• 35 hrs/week beginning May 9th and ending end of August.

• $16 - $21 per hour depending on experience

• Valid Driver’s License is required

• Ability to work outdoors, perform physical labour and operate equipment is considered and asset

• Application deadline is Thursday April 28, 2022.

If you are interested in 1 of these positions, please submit a resume to:

Municipal District of Acadia #34 c/o Deena Dillabough P.O. Box 30, Acadia Valley, Alberta T0J 0A0

By Lydia Goodbrand

Well, it’s been a bit colder in Youngstown lately, especially compared to some of the warmer days we’ve had. There was a skiff of snow earlier in the week, but nothing substantial. Hopefully we receive some more moisture soon.

At the last Town Council meeting on April 5, a variety of issues were discussed. The new auditor presented the 2021 Audited Financial Statements and a Municipal Fees bylaw was passed. A grant application has been submitted to the Municipal Climate Change Action Centre for the Electric Vehicle Charging Program and the rec board grants were approved. Harvest Sky has also hired a company to look into installing solar panels on a municipal building. In other town news, the Youngstown and District Community Centre will be having their AGM on April 21 at 7 pm at the Hall. Everyone is welcome.

There are also some exciting things happening around Youngstown School. Students working in the greenhouse have been busy taking care of their plants! If anyone has extra mineral tubs, please drop them off by the door of the greenhouse so they can be used as planters. Congratulations also to Corbin MacMillan, Rorrick MacPherson, Vance Laughlin, Mason Fildey, and Courtney Campbell, who will advance to zones after the sr. high badminton in St. Anthony’s in Drumheller on April 12.

Just a reminder that Homestead Angus (Haley and Calvin Powell) will be hosting their Black Angus bull sale via DLMS with guest cosignors Elliott Bros on April 16 and 17. Call the Powells at 403-854-6507 for more information.

Thanks for reading. Have a good week everybody.

Our heritage of volunteerism

By Joan Janzen

National Volunteer Week occurs every year during the third week of April. This year those dates fall on April 17 to April 23. Some organizations choose to celebrate National Volunteer Month during April, as a time to recognize volunteers and encourage volunteerism. Without our volunteers, we wouldn’t have some of the programs that many communities rely on today. It’s not only a good opportunity to highlight community programs, but to also remember the heritage of volunteerism which was passed down to us throughout

them.

Acadia Valley News

By Yolanda Kuhn

yakuhn@hotmail.com - call or text 403-664-0582 APRIL 13, 2022

Well, it seems Spring has decided to take its time arriving this year. We’ve been back in the deepfreeze this past week with plenty of wind and a few flurries.

Sympathy to the Skappak family on the passing of Mary Brausse. Mary was born in Acadia Valley, raised her family here and was also a teacher here for many

years.

Sending get well wishes to Darren Hoffman (Brian and Donna’s son) who has suffered some health issues lately.

There will be a bridal shower for Rachel Smigelski, bride elect of Devon Willis on Saturday May 14th at 2:00pm at the K.C. Hall.

The Community Club hosted a ladies night

with “Banger Bingo” last Saturday. Sounds like the entertainment was a hit and a good time was had by all!

The Sunset Seniors Club received The New Horizons Federal Grant in the amount of $24,000! This grant will be used to repair and update their building. Thank you to Jason Wallsmith for applying for the grant for

the past decades.

Back in 1965, the community of Alsask recognized the need for a service club. In 1966 it was decided that a Lions Club would be formed because it encompassed all the needs in the area. As a result, the club was chartered on April 13th, 1966, with 42 members. Lions A.C. Steiert, Claire Denny, Keith Hawking, Ted Mundt and Wayne Hislop, all kept up 100 percent attendance for sixteen years! At times, the club had as many as 75 members.

The club didn’t waste any time getting to work. In 1968-1969,

The Cactus Gym Club is starting up again. They’re running an 8 week session on Saturdays from April 23rd to June 11th at The Acadia Valley Events Centre. Check out their Facebook Group for more information.

Mark your calendars for the 1st Movie Night in the new hall! It will be on Friday April 22nd at 7:00pm. We will be showing Sing 2. This is a FREE Family event with FREE popcorn and water. There will also be other snacks available for purchase.

Lions members donated their time and funds in the construction and painting of a new indoor pool at the Air Force Station. The Lions also took over sponsorship of the Cubs and Scouts and co-sponsored the Air Cadets. They installed a new furnace in the hall, and wheat was donated to finance the addition of a kitchen and washroom at the rink. All this, plus more, was accomplished within five years.

The above information was obtained from the history book “Captured Memories - A History of Alsask and Surrounding School Districts”.

The Acadia Valley Diner has launched a new menu, and Friday night buffets will be back starting April 29th!

The Rec. Club Youth Ball will start on Monday April 25th at Marshall field. It will run Monday’s and Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30, anyone ages 7 and up are welcome to join.

Mark your calendars for the Canada Day weekend as The A.V. Rec. Club will be hosting their slow pitch tournament. There will be a beer garden, fireworks, entertainment for kids and more!

Contact Jordana to register your team 1-403-6649470.

Congratulations to Jordan Kuhn who won last month’s 50/50 of $235! The next draw will take place on May 2nd. You can purchase your tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or a Rec. Club member. Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with a quote from S.D. Gordon “Easter spells out beauty, the rare beauty of new life.”

Alsask Lions first Executive: L-R: Bill Waite, Keith Hawking, Omar Sather, Alan Johnson, Willis Benn, Bob Johnson, A.C. Steiert, Pat Ross, Wayne Hislop, Lyle Mayer, Stewart Hislop, Everet Lloyd.

Recently, Bruce Willis’ family announced that he will be taking a step back from his career of almost 45 years and more than 100 movies due to an aphasia diagnosis. Aphasia is a medical condition that leaves patients struggling to verbally communicate. It affects speech and the ability to read or write.

As of 2022, films featuring Willis have grossed over US$5 billion worldwide, making him one of the highest-grossing actors in the world.

About five years ago I wrote about this subject as one of my relatives was diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia. There are many types of aphasic conditions.

According to the Aphasia Institute, there are over 100,000 Canadians living with aphasia today and one in three stroke survivors are diagnosed with aphasia. As the population ages the incidence of aphasia is expected to increase.

An aphasic person cannot express himself or herself when speaking, has trouble understanding speech, and has difficulty with reading and writing or finding words.

Brain damage causes aphasia. This quite often happens after a stroke or

Dr. Noorali Bharwani, Specialist in general surgery www.nbharwani.com or dr@nbharwani.com

head injury. It can happen if a person has a brain tumour or Alzheimer’s disease. It is important to remember primary progressive aphasia is not Alzheimer’s disease. In primary progressive aphasia the problem is a disorder of language with preservation of other mental functions of daily living for at least two years. Symptoms may get worse after that.

The effects of aphasia differ from person to person and can sometimes be eased by speech therapy. Most people affected by this condition can maintain ability to take care of themselves and pursue hobbies. In some instances, a person can remain employed.

Primary progressive aphasia may present in a number of different ways but it commonly appears initially as a disorder of speech, progressing to a nearly total inability to speak in its most severe stage, while comprehension remains relatively preserved.

Symptoms begin gradually, often before age 65, and worsen over time. People with primary progressive aphasia have a difficult road ahead. They are fighting against a condition in which they will continue to lose their ability to speak, read, write, and/ or understand what they

hear. The illness progresses slowly.

Medically speaking, primary progressive aphasia is caused by a shrinking of the frontal, temporal or parietal lobes in the brain, primarily on the left side. The condition affects the language centers in the brain.

Who is at a higher risk of being affected by primary progressive aphasia? A person having learning disabilities and a person who has certain gene mutations –that is it may run in the family.

An individual who has aphasia should carry an identification card and obtain materials available from the National Aphasia Association (www.aphasia.org). This helps in communicating about the person’s condition to others.

Unfortunately, people with primary progressive aphasia eventually lose the ability to speak and write, and to understand written and spoken language. As the disease progresses, other mental skills, such as memory, can become impaired. Some people develop other neurological conditions. With these complications, the affected person eventually will need help with day-to-day care.

LTD. is currently seeking a

People with primary progressive aphasia can also develop behavioral or social problems as the disease progresses, such as anxiety or irritability. Other problems might include blunted emotions, poor judgment or inappropriate social behavior.

The diagnosis of the condition is based on history of worsening communication skills, changes in thinking and behaviour over one to two years. Besides physical examination a doctor will order several tests including blood tests, speech and language tests, genetic tests, MRI, etc.

Unfortunately, primary progressive aphasia cannot be cured, and there are no medications to treat it. The good news is, some therapies, like speech and language therapy, may help improve or maintain your ability to communicate and manage your condition.

Dr. Bharwani is a general surgeon, freelance writer, photographer and author of A Doctor’s Journey and Doctor B’s Eight Steps to Wellness. His books are available at www.nbharwani.com. You can discuss this article and other articles on his website: nbharwani.com and sign up for RSS feed, Twitter or get on the email list.

REQUIRED FOR THE SPRING PLANTING SEASON

Must be able to read and follow Planting sheets, supervise and maintain Quality control and be able to oversee a small crew of 4 to 5 people. No experience necessary. Wage $18.00 per hour.

SEND OR DROP OF YOUR RESUME TO: OYEN GREENHOUSES LTD. 201 - 1 Avenue West, Oyen, AB PO Box 358, Oyen, AB, T0J 2J0 Fax: 403-664-2759

Email: accounting@oyengreenhouses.ca

Classifieds

RATES (25 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday noon. 306-463-2211

ACREAGE FOR SALE

$189,000. One mile west of Eston. 13.6 acres, 1 1/2 storey house. 3 bedrooms up, one on main. 2 three piece bathrooms. Finished basement with 1/2 bath, family room, den, work shop. 40x60 Archrib Quonset power and gas to building. 6000 gallon cistern. For more details call 306-4308155.

COMING EVENTS

OYEN & DISTRICT

CURLING CLUB AGM

Monday, April 25, 2022 at 7:00 PM. Members are encouraged to attend.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

FOREFRONT INSURANCE is hiring external

brokers and processors/ data entry positions. Broker partnership opportunities for the right candidates. Call / email Michael 403-501-8013 / mhollinda@excelrisk.ca

FARM MACHINERY

Bindloss, Alberta

8” x 41’ Sakundiak self propelled auger with drag. Very good condition. 8” x 60’ Farm King side swing auger. Very good condition.

78 IHC 3-Ton, 392, steel box. Very good condition.

99 Dodge 3/4 Ton, 360, manual, 4 new tires 2640 Haybuster bale processor, left hand discharge

Keulker feed wagon 6 x 18 stock trailer Grain roller, new rolls 1966 706 IHC gas tractor 24 ft. Frigstad cultivator. gfowlie4444@msn.com 403-664-7145

ANNOUNCEMENTS

“Give the world one-half of Sunday and you will soon find that religion has no strong hold on the other half.” Sir Walter Scott

AUCTIONS

ONLINE TIMED 33rd SPRING EQUIP CONSIGNMENT AUCTION starting April 21 @9AM Closing April 26, 2022 @9AM. Farm machinery, Cars & Trucks, RV’s, Trailers, Snowmobiles, Motorcycles, Boats, ATV’s, Lumber, Lawn & Garden, Antique farm equip, Steel, Livestock handling equip, Skid Steer attach & more. See www. montgomeryauctions.com; 1-800371-6963.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 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 our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 X225. www.awna.com.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

is looking for two Automotive Journeyman Technicians.

mation about us, please visit our website at roadexservices.com. To apply, please email resume and a current driver’s astract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.

FARM MACHINERY

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.

FEED AND SEED

CERTIFIED SEED. - WHEAT –AAC Goodwin, AAC Penhold, AC Sadash, CDC Go, Go Early, Pintail. OATS - AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC Arborg, CDC SO1 Super Oat, ORE 3542M.

BARLEY – Amisk, Busby, Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea, Forage Peas. Polish Canola, Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN

- Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed....Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. “On Farm Pickup”. Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252.

FOR SALE

ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT is NOW HIRING: Service Managers, AG Equipment Techs, Heavy Equipment Techs - Journeyman & Apprentices, Parts Techs. View Open Roles Apply: www.rockymtn. com/careers. Relocation Offered. $2,000 SIGNING BONUS! Seeking Class 1 drivers to transport RV’s throughout N. America. Subsidized group benefits, competitive rates, monthly bonuses. Driver must have valid passport, able to cross the border, pass drug test and be 21 years or older. For more infor-

WHITE SPRUCE TREES. 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered. Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 20. One-time fuel charge: $125-175. Crystal Springs. 403820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

HEALTH

GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. Do you

or someone you know have any of these conditions: ADHD, Anxiety, Arthritis, Asthma, Cancer, COPD, Depression, Diabetes, Difficulty Walking, Fibromyalgia, Irritable Bowels, Overweight, Trouble Dressing...and Hundreds more. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions qualify. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-800-211-3550 or send a text message with Name and Mailing Address to 403-9803605 for your FREE benefits package.

HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844453-5372.

SERVICES

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-347-2540. www. accesslegalmjf.com.

PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca.

WANTED

CASH for all gold & silver! Bullion, coins, bars, jewelry, nuggets, dental gold, sterling, 9999 silver+. Also buying coin collections & old money. US, Canada & world collections WANTED. Todd 250-8643521.

Posting Date April 11, 2022

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A sudden change of plans could lead to a misunderstanding with a friend or family member. Be ready to offer a full explanation of your decision. A past favor is returned.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Expect pressure from those who want you to change your position on a matter of importance. However, the determined Bovine will be able to withstand the bullying and win out.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) It’s time to stop dwelling on past disappointments and move on to other possibilities. By week’s end, you’ll be meeting new people and making new plans for the future.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A long-simmering situation between co-workers threatens to heat up and could create problems with your work schedule. Best advice: Consult a supervisor on how to proceed.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) You might have just learned that someone close to you is keeping a secret. And, of course, the Cat’s curiosity has gone into overdrive. But be patient. All is revealed soon enough.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Don’t give up. The recognition citing the good work you recently did will come through. Meanwhile, an opportunity opens up that can lead to a lot of traveling later on.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A financial crunch eases, but it’s still a good idea to keep a tight rein on what you spend for nonessentials. Education becomes a major focus as the week winds down.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Recent encounters with stressful situations could require some restorative measures to get your energy levels back up. Talk to your doctor about a diet and exercise program.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) New connections follow changes on the job or in your personal life. But keep your feelings reined in until these relationships have a chance to develop.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Pay more attention to your aches and pains, but avoid self-diagnoses. Seek professional advice to make sure these problems won’t lead to something more serious.

1. HUMAN ANATOMY: How many miles of blood vessels does the average human have?

2. GEOGRAPHY: What degree is assigned to the International Date Line?

3. MOVIES: Which Looney Tunes character’s catchphrase is “You’re despicable”?

4. ADVERTISING: What was the name of the grocery owner in the Charmin bath tissue ads of the 1960s-80s?

5. U.S. STATES: What is the only state to have one syllable in its name?

6. CHEMISTRY: What is the only letter that doesn’t appear in the periodic table?

7. MYTHOLOGY: How many gods and goddesses were said to live on Mount Olympus?

8. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president was the last to serve without a college degree?

9. LITERATURE: Celie is a character in which 1982 novel?

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You love doing research and learning new things, so you’ll be happy to know that education becomes a big part of your life at this time, and for some time to come.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your Piscean penchant for doing things logically could be challenged by an equally strong emotional reaction to a new situation. Best advice: Keep the two factors in balance.

BORN THIS WEEK: You love music and nature. You would be an excellent environmentalist, as well as a fine singer or musician.

Trivia Test Answerst 1. 60,000 miles; 2. 180 degrees longitude; 3. Daffy Duck; 4. Mr. Whipple; 5. Maine; 6. J; 7. 12; 8. Harry Truman; 9. “The Color Purple”; 10. “Glee”

Obituaries

Rose Bakowy

December 23, 1921 to April 12, 2022

Rose was born Dec. 23, 1921 in Oyen and passed away April 12, 2022. She was the third child of John and Tekla Smigelski and grew up on the farm.

She married Nick Bakowy July 22, 1942. They purchased a 1/2 section of land from Joe

Darla Mary Knutsvik

1968 - 2022

Darla Mary Knutsvik (Styles) beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend was born on July 1, 1968, to proud parents, Cliff and Leona Styles in Oyen, AB. She was the youngest of 4 siblings. She passed away surrounded by family on April 4, 2022 in Medicine Hat, AB at the age of 53 years.

Darla grew up in Sibbald, AB and took all her schooling in Oyen, AB. She was a self-proclaimed “Daddy’s Little Girl” but spoiled and loved by anyone and everyone that knew her. She was an active child that just wanted to keep up with her older siblings. Darla had open heart surgery in June of 1978 (age 10) at the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary, AB. She was a fighter, and it didn’t keep

Blaise and that was the start of their farming life. Life on the farm was hard, but so very rewarding.

Rose was known for her cooking and her huge garden.

She loved curling, cards and bingo. Trips with her daughters to play the VLTs was something she always looked forward to.

Rose was adept at playing the piano and a bit of guitar.

She was known for her perogies and they always sold out in minutes at the farmers market. Canning fruit was an industrial event.

She was a member of the CWL for many years.

her down long as she went on to win a 5km run shortly after leaving the hospital. This was one of her proudest accomplishments.

In 1982 she moved to Brooks, AB and lived with her sister, Sheri Styles. She worked as a waitress at the Starlight Restaurant and began to build her life there.

Her stunning beauty and elegance earned her a spot in La Casablanca Modelling School in Calgary, AB in 1985. She always wanted to look her best and had a knack for cosmetology which helped her to excel in the program. She graduated the following year.

Shortly thereafter, she met her first husband, Monty Becker and they were married in February of 1987. They welcomed their daughter, Korri later that year and son, Ryley in 1991. Darla loved and took so much pride in her career as a mother and was extremely family oriented. She spent every moment she could with her children, many nieces/nephews, siblings, parents, or friends that became family. Anyone that knew her could attest that she was a great cook; guests were always welcome and treated to the finest meals. You would

Nick and Rose were fortunate to be able to do trips to Mexico, Eastern Canada and many places in the States.

In 1987, Nick and Rose retired to Oyen. She continued with her excellent cooking and still had a garden. Rose moved to the Oyen Lodge in 2003 until 2015 when she moved to the Oyen Auxiliary.

She was predeceased by her parents John and Tekla Smigelski, Husband Nick, brothers; Paul, Mike, Pete, daughter Norma Bruntjen, sistersin-law; Betty Smigelski, Annie Smigelski and sonin-law Ken Walz.

She is survived by her daughter Theresa Walz, son; Tony (Val) and

never leave on an empty stomach. She struggled with several health issues throughout her life but always did her best to not let it show.

Life took a change and her marriage to Monty ended. She met her second husband, Jason Knutsvik in 2000. After 15 short years, they were finally married in 2015. Darla welcomed his children, Tyler and Miranda with open arms. She truly loved them as her own and together they made many wonderful and cherished memories as a perfectly blended family of 6.

She had various careers over the years when her health allowed but most notably the Newbrook Lodge where she was loved by staff and residents alike for her kind and nurturing nature. She then went on to the Lakeview Inn and Suites where her determination helped her work her way up to Manager.

Darla had 5 beautiful grandchildren who were the centre of her world and loved her dearly. She spent every moment she could either being with them or bragging about them. Her passing has left a hole in their hearts that will never be filled. They truly were and

Roger. Grandsons Kevin (Melany) Walz and family, Troy (Leigh) Bruntjen and family, Corey Bruntjen, Calvin (Jodie) Walz and family, son-inlaw Ray Bruntjen, sisterin-law Dorothy Smigelski and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial tributes may be directed to Oyen and District Health Care Foundation Box 1, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 or to a charity of Donors Choice.

Funeral Service to be held on Wednesday April 20, 2022 at 11 a.m at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Oyen, AB.

Funeral Service in the care of MacLean’s Funeral Home in Oyen AB ofsmacleans.com

always will be the loves of her life.

Darla was predeceased by infant baby sister, Janice Marie Styles (1965), twin nieces Jaime Lee and Janelle Rhea Elsasser (1984), father Cliff Styles (2001), paternal grandparents Wes and Mary Styles and maternal grandparents Charlie and Esther Gillespie.

Darla leaves to cherish her memory husband Jason, daughter Korri (Nelson) Timko, son Ryley Becker, stepson Tyler (Ashley) Knutsvik, stepdaughter Miranda Knutsvik, her grandchildren; Kyler, Payton, Conner, Paxton and Kamryn, mother Leona Styles, brother Darwin (Roxanne) Styles, sisters; Shannon (Mike) Rutherford, Sheri Elsasser, numerous family, friends and her beloved “Fur Baby” Zoey.

Memorial tributes may be directed to The Heart And Stroke Foundation 100-119 14 St. NW Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6, or to a Charity Of Donor’s Choice.

Funeral Service took place on Monday April 11, 2022 in Sibbald, AB Funeral arrangements in the care of MacLean’s Funeral Home in Oyen, AB ofsmacleans.com