Grand sweeping fairytales that threaten Canadians ability to keep the lights on are no way to speed things up
BY BRIAN ZINCHUK
Edmonton – Alberta Premier Danielle Smith threw down the gauntlet over the recently announced proposed Clean Electricity Regulations. On Aug. 14, she rejected those proposals vehemently.
These are her verbaim opening remarks in that press conference. Pipeline Online will delve further into her remarks, but these are the jist of Smith’s, and the Government of Alberta’s, position:
I do want to speak about the proposed clean electricity regulations that Ottawa announced last week. To say they’re disappointing is an understatement. They are unconstitutional, irresponsible and utterly out of step with reality. If they become the law of the land, these regulations would crush Albertans’ finances, and they would also cause dramatic increases in electricity bills for families and businesses across Canada.
We agree with the broader goal of decarbonizing the electricity grid and getting to carbon neutrality. We have a plan to get there by 2050. It’s our emissions reduction and electric energy development plan. But a 2035 target is not attainable. Ot-
tawa’s own forecast expects electricity demand to double between now and 2050. As it is now, Canada’s electricity grid, including Alberta’s, can’t handle the increased load that is coming. And the draft regulations will severely threaten the reliability of the our power grid even more,
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Bylaw 1032-2023
The Town of Hanna Land Use Bylaw
Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26 of the Statutes of Alberta, notice is hereby given that the Council of the Town of Hanna will hold a public hearing prior to the second reading of Land Use Bylaw 1032-2023. Bylaw 1032-2023 proposes to replace the current Land Use Bylaw 967-2012 with an updated Land Use Bylaw.
The Land Use Bylaw (LUB) serves as the “rule book” for the development within the Town of Hanna. The LUB regulates the development of land and buildings on a site-specific basis, based on the policy directions set by the Town’s Municipal Development Plan. The LUB regulates how land can be used, including what uses are appropriate and where they can be located. The LUB aims to balance landowner’s rights with the interests of the community.
Some of the key highlights of the proposed Land Use Bylaw 1032-2023 include:
• Anticipated effective date of January 1, 2024 with clear directions of the transition from Bylaw 967-2012;
• Compliance with all recent legislative changes to the Municipal Government Act, including development permit notices and timelines, responsibilities of the Development Authority, and appeals;
• No development permit required for particular uses such as a fence, a Home OccupationMinor, Farm Animals, and roof-top solar panels (Renewable Energy Systems-Attached) where they are in compliance with the standards in the LUB:
• Clear and concise development permit application requirements;
• All uses and general terms used in the bylaw are clearly identified and defined;
• Wheelchair ramps used for accessibility are allowed to encroach into a required setback;
leading to potential blackouts that would be devastating.
To meet these demands, we will need to grow our generating capacity by up to three times of present levels, growing that capacity to accelerate the shift to a net-zero power grid would cost Canadians more than a trillion dollars, by some estimates. Alberta’s portion of that would be at least $200 billion and maybe as much as $400 billion of mandated investments in new generation and transmission capacity.
If this was implemented in Alberta, we’re looking at massive immediate increases to power bills for every Albertan, making life more expensive for families and businesses.
So let me be clear, any plan that makes electricity more expensive, and less reliable, is a bad plan. And the clean electricity regulations are an exceptionally bad poorly thought out and illogical plan. This nonsensical plan by the federal Liberals will strain our family finances. As food and shelter keep getting more expensive, families shouldn’t have to bear the burden of skyrocketing power prices. And this plan will make it more difficult for businesses to break even, let alone to survive.
cially. And Alberta’s government will not go along with that. We will never allow these regulations to be implemented here, full stop.
This doesn’t mean that we’re closing the door on cooperation with the federal government. We’ve been clear that we are willing to look at, to work with them, to build a carbonneutral electricity system that is affordable, reliable and secure. And, based on the conversations we have had with our power generations, we believe it can be done by 2050, but not by 2035.
And any plan must recognize that we can only cut emissions as fast as technology and infrastructure and people’s pocketbooks will allow. Emissions reductions are essential, and Alberta will continue to achieve them. But grand sweeping fairytales that threaten Canadians ability to keep the lights on are no way to speed things up.
That is not the vision that my government, or that I have, for Albertans. We’ll participate in the upcoming joint working group, which includes decarbonizing the power grid, because Alberta has always been a leader in emissions reductions. And because it’s important that we continue that leadership, while expressing our strong concerns that we have for these new regulations. However, the outcome must be one that Albertans can afford, and can support. There is no room for argument on this.
If we can’t reach an agreement, Alberta will pursue its own better path and will protect Albertans from the ruinous consequences of the latest federal policies. This will be accomplished by ensuring an appropriate amount of high efficiency natural gas baseload is added to the grid, while incentivizing carbon capture, utilization and storage, abated natural gas generation, small modular reactors, hydrogen generation and a sustainable amount of wind solar and other renewables to drive down electricity costs.
We must continue ensuring that life for Albertans and Canadians is affordable and that families can pay their bills because without economic sustainability, progress on energy sustainability is impossible. That’s the message we were we would like to take to Ottawa every chance that we get. DANIELLE
• Clear development regulations for specific uses such as Kennels, Home Occupations, and Accessory Dwelling Units;
• The list of permitted and discretionary uses of each land use district eliminate unintentional non-conforming uses;
• The correct land use district is applied to each property, specifically related to the intent and purpose of each land use district. In particular, the application of the C-1, C-T, C-2 and HWY-C districts on each commercial property and the application of the R-2 and MD districts on residential properties; and
• The regulations in each land use district, such as density, yard setbacks and building heights are appropriate and eliminate unintentional non-conforming buildings, in particular within the C-2 District.
• Should you wish to address Hanna Council in person, a public hearing for Bylaw 1032-2023 will be held in the Town of Hanna Community Centre at 503 5th Avenue West on September 13, 2023 commencing at 9:00 a.m. Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaw.
• Additionally, written comments may be delivered to Box 430, 302 2nd Avenue West, Hanna Alberta, T0J 1P0 or emailed to kneill@hanna.ca; submissions will be received up to September 11th, 2023 at 4:30 p.m.
• The proposed Land Use Bylaw 1032-2023 can be reviewed online at hanna.ca, or copies may be viewed Monday through Friday at 302 2nd Avenue West, Hanna from 8:30 a.m - 4:30 p.m.
Ottawa’s strategy seems to be to placate the environmental extremists, while throwing regular Canadians under the bus. That’s wrong. It’s unacceptable, morally and finan-
My travels took me to the tiny hamlet of Endiang where Ruthie’s Roost has sat empty since 2014.
Premier Danielle Smith PHOTO: CANADIAN PRESS
PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
Pool Coming
Events!
Aug 25: Movie Night - "Strange World"
Aug 27: Last Day for public swim with live music from Dally-Up N Dance Aug 28: Pool Paw-ty - Bring your dog(s) to the pool from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Book table by Mon Sept 1 by contacting the Town Office or email admin@hanna.ca Registration & Information Fair
Sept 7 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Community Centre
COMING COMING COMING EVENTS EVENTS EVENTS
Not Everyone Likes Dogs!
Some people are afraid of dogs especially when they are running at large.
Remember:
Always respect others
Ensure your dog is on a leash during walks
When home, make sure your dog is property contained and not able to escape.
Do your part to ensure Hanna resident are safe from any unwanted contact from your dog.
Animal Control Bylaw No. 808 requires that all dog must have a current dog license. For more information visit hanna.ca/pets
Council
�� Don’t flick! Tossing your
�� Carry a portable ashtray.
Don't be a Butt �� Even better if it contains sand. cigarette butt out your vehicle window can cause a fire.
�� Soak your butt in a small container with water.
�� Dispose of cigarette butts responsibly.
Notice of Public Hearing Proposed Bylaw 1032-2023
Town of Hanna Land Use Bylaw
Wed Sept 13 at 9:00 am
Hanna Community Centre Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaw. hanna.ca/bylaws-policies
Town Seeking Board Members
The following boards have vacancies. Applications are being accepted until Aug 31, 2023.
2023 Tax Payment Deadline
Property owners have until Thursday August 31, 2023 to make sure outstanding taxes are paid.
Effective September 1, 2023, a 4% penalty will apply.
Community Services Board
Big Country Housing Authority
Fred & Freda Geuder Education Bursary
Hanna and District Medical Corporation
Municipal Library Board
Municipal Planning Commission
Additional details can be found here hanna.ca/volunteers
Aug 25-30 Apex Utilities Phase I
Apex Utilities (formerly AltaGas) has informed the Town of Hanna that Neuterra Ventures Inc. has been contracted to do work on the gas lines in Hanna.
Note:
Alley access may be restricted during this time.
The week of Aug 25 - Aug 30 will impact Areas 13- 15.
The project consists of 2 phases. This is phase 1.
There will be no loss of service.
There will be minimal impact to residents and businesses.
Stay Informed:
Sign up for the Town e-newsletter. hanna.ca
Visit hanna.ca/news
Sign up for SMS Notifications at hanna.ca/alert
Check your front door for correspondence from Neuterra
Notice: Under the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, the Town of Hanna will offer 3 properties for sale, by public auction on Mon.
Open Farm Day is fun for all ages
BY KATE WINQUIST
The Big Country Agricultural Society hosted their Open Farm Day at the Crossroads Centre in Oyen on Saturday, August 19.
The event was free of charge and featured demonstrations on churning butter and ice cream production. The Oyen Fire Department, Rocky Mountain Equipment, Oyen Home Hardware and CARA also had displays set up.
Vendors included Border Quilters, My Honey, Crocus Lane Farms and Rafter 00 Ranch.
The petting zoo, barrel train rides and horse rides were all popular with the kids.
Supper was served from 5:00-7:00 PM and featured locally gown produce.
Acadia Foundation Oyen Seniors Lodge VACANCIES
Single rooms provide one bedroom, kitchen and living area with space for a microwave and bar sized fridge, large bathroom with shower.
Double room size has an overall larger living space.
Full meal and housekeeping services included.
The Oyen Seniors Lodge provides a warm, friendly, clean, and healthy environment with daily activities, hairdressing services, daily mail/ pharmacy package delivery, handi bus services, weekly doctor visits, and Home Care services if needed.
Please contact Gloria Jorgenson Manager - Oyen Seniors Lodge gloria.jorgenson@acadiafoundation.com (403) 664-3661
There will be a Come & Go Tea honouring BILL KOLKMAN on his 80th BIRTHDAY
September 2nd
from 2:00-4:00 PM at the Oyen Senior’s Rec Centre Everybody welcome.
We will continue our regular Fall Fest with a potluck supper for family & friends at 6:00 PM.
Your Southwest Media Group has an immediate opening for a Freelance Reporter / Photographer for our 2 weekly Alberta publications: The Harvest Sky (Hanna) Sentinel and The Oyen Echo. The ideal candidate is able to produce succinct, clear and accurate copy on a deadline. You will be expected to write 5-10 news and feature stories per week. Topics can include, but not limited to agriculture, community, family, business, people, sports and events. The candidate will need to reside in the service area, but can work remotely.
Email your resume and writing / photography samples along with a cover letter and wage expectations by Friday, September 1, 2023 to: Kate Winquist, Publisher kate@yoursouthwest.com
OPINION: Summer camps help kids
BY JOAN JANZEN
Someone defined summer camp as follows: when you spend a small fortune to live like a homeless person. But for kids who attend various camps throughout the region, summer camp means an awesome time of fun activities and meeting new friends. Each camp offers something different, and the volunteers sincerely care about the children they are serving. Summer vacation would not be the same without the opportunity for kids to go to camp.
One camp that was held earlier this summer offered a slightly different camp experience. Sammy Robinson from the non-profit organization Red Zone spoke with Faytene Grasseschi on FayteneTV about the camp.
Red Zone is one organization that serves the next generation by bringing together professional athletes to coach kids and pour into their lives. It’s a day camp for students from Grades 6 to 12. It brings former NFL coaches and former NFL players together with young athletes for a time of skill training and inspiration. The camp was held in Calgary earlier this summer.
Robinson said the camp started with an idea he had to host football camps for kids where they could meet professional athletes, famous coaches and players that had actually won a Super Bowl. “We came to Calgary and rented Mahon Stadium, which is super cool,” Robinson said. “It’s a dream for kids to play where their heroes play.”
Camp opened, and 225 kids came from all over Alberta to join in the fun and learn football skills. “People were driving five or six hours to be
THE BIBLE:
part of the camp,” he explained. Not only were kids getting mentored by some top-level players and coaches, but they were also being encouraged by Red Zone’s team of volunteers.
“Staff could see the faces of these kids getting really encouraged,” Robinson said. Many of those middle school and high school kids were desperate for hope. “We did a quick question, asking kids how many suffer from anxiety and depression, and ninety percent of the kids put up their hands. Young people were looking for answers.”
The players shared their personal stories. “Guys were saying life is hard at times, and things don’t go as planned, but there’s an inner strength that you find from spirituality that you don’t find from anything else,” Robinson said. “You can’t remove spirituality from the conversation.”
Red Zone’s marketing and advertising emphasized their motto of “Faith, Family, Football”. “We wanted people to know up front that we’re all struggling,” Robinson said. And the kids were listening.
“Kids were asking how do they get peace, how do they find joy, how do they get hope? And players were saying, ‘this is what I found helped in my life,’ and it was encouraging for those kids,” he said. Campers said it was awesome to connect with coaches and players and have a positive male role model speak into their lives.
“One kid made an amazing catch, and the first thing he was looking for was his coach,” Robinson said. “When he made eye contact with his coach, their eyes locked, and the coach said, ‘Good catch!’. The kid looked like he had just won the ver-
TO THE EDITOR:
Fossil Fuel vs Bible Predictions
I believe the time has come or is overdue for a good open discussion about the Bible, not as a religious book but as a manual on how God wanted us to live on His Earth. I’m sure we have all come short of his goals, and when corruption has gotten bad enough, He would have to cleanse the Earth, which is what I believe He has started. With the fires, floods, hail, wind, drought, and pandemics happening, we still have the volcanoes and big earthquakes to come, along with more pandemics. I believe I read in the Bible that
He said the sun would scorch us because it was going to get stronger. God says it’s never too late to start trying to live right or live up to Jesus’ standards. I think this should give us lots to chew on. I’m going to send this out to the media and some politicians and see if anyone is interested in pursuing it any further. This should be an ongoing discussion because it would take a lot more than an hour-long talk show to get anything near to covering the topic. Before throwing this article in the waste basket, dust off your Bible and read Joel, verses 1, 2, and 3.
Robert Blagen, Youngstown, AB
The Hanna Sentinel • The Oyen Echo Issued Wednesdays by Your Southwest Media Group from the office at 603 Main Street, P.O. Box 727, Kindersley, SK S0L 1S0 PHONE 306-463-2211 kate@yoursouthwest.com
bal lottery! It was amazing!”
Although the kids learned new skills, their parents realized it wasn’t like a typical football camp. One dad said his son was one of the top quarterbacks in Alberta football and attends a lot of different camps, and gets a lot of exposure and training. The camps are usually very competitive and aggressive, but Red Zone was different. The dad said there was such a camaraderie amongst the kids. No one was trying to be the best player, and everyone was celebrating each other.
“That hit home for a lot of parents and kids,” Robinson said. “A lot of things were the same as other camps, but the atmosphere was different.”
Parents and kids weren’t the only ones who noticed the positive atmosphere. “The Management at the stadium host a lot of events, and they said their staff had never been more appreciated,” Robinson said. “There was such a culture of honour. The staff told us it was one of the best events they had ever hosted in their history. After the event, they asked if we’d be willing to host it again. And I was shocked how supportive
the City of Calgary was.”
One of the players told the campers that the challenges and things they go through in life will only make them stronger. “God is there for you and with you as you go through your life,” he assured them. Red Zone camp started with just one idea. Faytene asked Sammy what advice he would offer to people who have a creative idea. “I would say you never know what you have until you try,” he advised. “This idea of creating these events for middle school and high school kids where we could intertwine sports and faith turned out to be bigger than I could imagine. Take some practical steps to your dreams. I really believe our society is looking for these outof-the-box ideas that could create something incredible for your community. You might make mistakes, but you’ll learn along the way, and you’ll never know the potential of an opportunity until you take a step.” And you’ll never know how big of an impact it will have on kids who are looking for answers.
Letter to the Editor Policy
We welcome the opinions of our readers in the form of letters to the editor, as long as submissions do not include: • Profanity, vulgarity and/or obscenities • Slurs and/or personal attacks • Misinformation We reserve sole discretion to decide whether or not a reader submission will be published. We will not publish anonymous submissions or letters containing personal attacks. We reserve the right to edit or refuse all letters.
KATE WINQUIST Publisher/Photographer ROBERT WINQUIST Circulation JOAN JANZEN Journalist HARLAND LESYK Sales Manager
PATTI MORAN Production GREG PAULHUS Web/Social Media
Pop89: We Think We Know
BY MADONNA HAMEL
In 1867-1914 the Canadian West was “open for settlement.” In the late 1890s, after MacDonald formed the NWMP, Clifford Sifton, minister for the interior, went about some real “quality” folk for The Territories. At the top of the “quality” list were urban Brits, followed by Belgians and Americans, with Dutch, Germans, Finns and Scandinavians at the bottom. But it soon became clear that “quality” in London means a whole other thing on the prairie. “Quality” meant “stalwart peasant stock”. Meant men with farming ancestry and “a stout wife and half a dozen children, all born on the soil.” It did not mean single women unless they were widows who had sons. And it certainly did not mean the people already living on this soil for centuries.
For Hungarians, Icelanders, Romanians, Chinese and Ukrainians, Canada was a second chance, a refuge for refugees. Eldon, Saskatchewan, became the first black community. Jewish newcomers built New Jerusalem. In 1881 Acadia Day was established around the same time the bison disappeared from the plains. While all this was happening, the potlatch and the Sundance were banned. Residential schools were established. It was against the law for Indigenous people to wear their traditional clothing - what the government referred to as “costumes”- off the reserve. The railway was completed the year Riel was hung.
So what’s my point? There was a lot going on when Canada became the Canada descendants of peasants and “quality” citizens know of as Canada. There are stories they lay buried with exhausted bodies of homesteaders who came running from hunger, disease and the law. From tyrants and torturers. And still they come, lost, looking and longing for a place to land. Those of us whose grand-parents came on a boat or a train now consider ourselves “true Canadians.” Many of us suffer from a form of hubris that builds on
the privileged behaviour that, now that we’ve made it through the door, let’s close it before more ethnically undesirable types slip in and ruin the place. Before they take all the jobs, buy up all the land, expect us to follow their beliefs and traditions, like we expected native people to follow when our folks arrived.
We don’t know each other. But there are a million reasons why we don’t. We cannot possibly know everyone’s story, especially if efforts were made to keep those stories quiet, hidden, driven underground, like the bison themselves. Still, it behooves us to learn them. In learning about others, we realize: the more we know, the more we know we don’t know.
We don’t know each other, of course, we don’t. To paraphrase Walt Whitman, we are huge, we contain multitudes of wonders and contradictions. Who ever really does know a person, fully? We don’t know each other, and that’s not the problem. The problem is: we think we do.
How many times have we said about a person: If he thinks he’s gonna….Or: She thinks she can just….But how do we get into each other’s heads like that? Why do we build our cases rather than investigate? Herbert Spencer wrote: “There is a principle which cannot fail to keep a man in everlasting ignorance-that principle is contempt prior to investigation.” And yet, we all have, at one point, felt stymied by a truth we’d rather not face but had to. And when that moment arrived, who did we turn to? Anyone who would listen.
I’ve written about my writing students, keen teens who eagerly immersive themselves for a full week, writing their hearts onto the page while other teens are at the lake, or sleeping in, or playing video games. Their capacity for writing all day long is matched by their interest in each other’s creations. When we started writing this year, I admit I was concerned about how we would approach stories that may be considered “inappropriate” by editors or institutions or parents.
How would we discuss “identity,” “diversity,” “appropriation,” and those other hot-button topics of the day? As it turned out, most of the stories took place in another time and space, beyond the reach of the here and now. Escape to elsewhere has become the answer to this world of warnings and suspicions, vituperative and accusations based on assumptions.
But I was saddened because if we don’t, as creators, attempt to walk a mile in another’s shoes - as native elders tell us - then how do we even begin to expand our limited understanding of each other? I asked a Cree friend about having a Metis woman in my novel. (I am Metis, but I never experienced the prejudice levelled at the Metis of my great-grandmother’s generation. If it weren’t for my uncle charting my family’s genealogy, I’d never have known. I’ve managed to hunt down a family member’s lot number dating to the late 1800s.) She said: own where you are coming fromyour perspective, your bits and pieces of knowledge. Don’t claim to be her. And do your research. But most of all - listen to the stories of others.
I appreciated the advice because I want a Metis woman in my book. I want her story to be recorded, registered, relayed. I know my view is one author’s view, but it has always been that way. And, I am saddened that while a girl student feels comfortable writing from the viewpoint of a fiftytwo-year-old male rancher or two of my boys find their way into the mind of their grand-mothers, they refuse to even attempt a character who is of another race or ethnicity. I understand the respect. But their reticence has lead to an absence of “other.” So, how will they develop empathy? Do I tell them they shouldn’t be writing from the perspective of older people, autistic people, other genders? Soon we’ll have no common humanity to appeal to. Then what? Do we just take off to another planet, where we don’t know each other but assume we do?
Over $4 million to be invested to the Western Grains Research Foundation QUICK FACTS
On August 15, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, announced an investment of over $4 million to the Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF) under the AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
Agronomy, or the science and practice of crop production and farmland management, brings together knowledge of how plants, soils, insects, microorganisms and climate interact with each other in a given area. The Agronomy Cluster will deliver innovative research and knowledge transfer resulting in more resilient, productive crops and increased yields.
WGRF makes investments in crop research to benefit western Canadian grain farmers. One of the priority areas for WGRF is funding integrated crop agronomy. To reach this goal, the WGRF has established six cross-cutting research priorities: weed management, disease management, insect pest management, plant nutrition, response to weather variability and climate change, and sustainable resource management.
It's expected that the research activities in this Cluster will generate a better understanding of the relationship between soil moisture conditions and the productivity and profitability of management strategies in western Canada, increase economic returns through developing and optimizing sitespecific cropping systems in Western Canada, and facilitate the adoption of a biovigilance-based ap-
Agronomic practices that support resilient and profitable crop production are vital to our sector and to Canada’s economy.
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
proach to weed mitigation in the Canadian prairies. The Cluster consists of research activities in each of the AgriScience program priority areas: Climate Change & Environment, Economic Growth & Development, and Sector Resilience & Societal Changes.
• The principal field crops sector produced an estimated 96.2 million tonnes of grains, oilseeds, pulses and special crops in 2022, on seeded area of 31.5 million hectares (77.8 million acres).
• The sector generated approximately $39.0 billion in farm cash receipts in 2022, up from $32.3 billion in 2021.
• In 2021, there were 65,135 principal field crop farms in Canada according to the Census of Agriculture, representing 34.3 per cent of all farms.
• The AgriScience Program, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, aims to accelerate innovation by providing funding and support for pre-commercial science activities and research that benefits the agriculture and agri-food sector, and Canadians.
– The Clusters Component, under the AgriScience Program, supports projects intended to mobilize industry, government and academia through partnerships, and address priority national themes and horizontal issues.
– The application intake period is closed.
• The Western Grains Research Foundation is a farmer-funded and farmer-directed non-profit organization investing in agricultural research that benefits western Canadian producers.
Commentary: Harvest Time
BY DAMIEN KUREK Battle River - Crowfoot MP
It's harvest time in Battle River— Crowfoot. Although the expectations for crops vary greatly depending on the area, farmers across the region and from coast to coast to coast are getting ready to harvest. As a kid, I was always excited about this time of year. Not only was I able to spend time with my dad and grandpa, helping out on the farm but I was also always reminded about the sense of accomplishment that comes with bringing in a crop after a year of hard work. In fact, my late grandfather always shared, when I would spend time with him in the combine, that harvest was his favourite time of year because of that sense of accomplishment that coincided with the work.
There are some real challenges farmers face, but before getting into that, I wanted to say a big thank you to farmers, ranchers, and all our food producers who put in the necessary hours of hard work to ensure there’s food on the plates of Canadians and to provide food for so many around the world. This is something we can and should be proud of as Canadians. Here in East Central Alberta, whether it’s cash crops, livestock, or other ag products, we showcase many of the best products the world needs. And as the 5th generation in my family to
be involved in farming, it is a tradition I am certainly proud of.
This year has some significant difficulties. Many of the rural municipalities in this area have declared "agricultural disasters” because of the sustained shortage of rain and other extreme weather events. Many producers are facing challenges and because of the widespread, but not always uniform impacts, the need for disaster assistance and risk management programs is essential. And of course, operational costs have skyrocketed, adding risk to normal operations. Although the Federal Government has been ignorant to many of these challenges, our team of Conservative MPs from Alberta didn't waste any time making sure the newly appointed federal Agriculture Minister was made aware of the situation we are facing. And we won’t stop advocating.
Further, the Leader of Canada's Conservatives, Pierre Poilievre, has been outspoken on the need to support farmers. For example, when the Government in Ottawa imposed a tax like the carbon tax on farmers and interferes with farm operations, it impacts not only the farmer but all Canadians. In fact, recent reports show that a significant portion of the food-based inflation could be directly attributed to the carbon tax. All Canadians deserve better.
That is why we will continue to
demand better for farmers, have policy that reflects common sense, not activist ideology, and axe the carbon tax that is breaking the bottom line of an industry. This is not only important here in Battle River—Crowfoot, but to every person who puts food on their table.
May God bless our farmers and stay safe as you put in the long hours needed to feed the world.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you
4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or e-mail damien. kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek. If you need of assistance regarding a Federal Government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to MP Kurek’s office.
are encouraged to write Damien at
If the walls could talk, the stories they would tell. PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
Jays in playoff mix down the stretch
It has been a season of ups and downs for the Toronto Blue Jays, who are poised to earn one of three American League wildcard berths, so fans in Canada will (likely) be enjoying October baseball again this year.
The bad news, though, is that recent history is not on the Blue Jays’ side, as wildcard playoff appearances in 2022 and 2020 resulted in no wins in back-to-back 2-0 series defeats.
Optimistically, this year could be different. The Jays’ pitching seems more reliable than in the recent past, and injuries that have created some anxious moments for manager John Schneider are expected to be in the past once the post-season begins.
But back to the ups and downs. Bo Bichette qualifies in both categories. The shortstop led the American League in batting average through two-thirds of the season (.321), but was sent to the sidelines with an injured knee in early August.
Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., was on top of the hitting world in July, swatting homer after homer while winning the Home Run Derby. But in regular-season play, the fifth-year first-baseman has been a disappointment. Through the first two weeks of August, Guerrero, Jr., who slugged 80 home runs in his previous two seasons, had hit only 18, tops on the team, but far below fans’ expectations.
The Jays spent $3 million on a one-year contract for free agent outfielder Daulton Varsho, with his 27 home runs for Arizona last year the
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
big attraction.. But Varsho’s bat has been relatively quiet this year, with only a .214 batting average and 13 home runs though 116 games.
Toronto’s other free-agent acquisition, Brandon Belt, has been equally mediocre — a .254 batting average and 11 home runs. And outfielder George Springer, who had 39- and 34-home-run seasons for Houston Astros, has only 14 round-trippers this year.
But the pitching has been solid. The Jays will probably wind up with four starters with 10 or more victories — Kevin Gausman, Chris Bassitt, Jose Berrios and Yusei Kikuchi. Last year’s breakout pitching star, Alek Manoah, got off to a horrible start to the 2023 season, and is now in the minors, and Hyun-jin Ryu, who missed a full year due to
Tommy John surgery, was a pleasant surprise upon his return before getting hit in the knee by a line drive in his second outing. Still, Schneider is counting on him to play a major role in the post-season. With Gausman, Bassitt, Kikuchi, Berrios and a rejuvenated Ryu available to start in the post-season, the Jays won’t be a pushover.
Seattle, Boston and the Yankees are in the mix with the Jays in the wildcard race, but with five weeks left in the regular season, fingers are crossed north of the 49th parallel that the Blue Jays will prevail.
• Steve Simmons of Sunmedia, on Vladimir Guerrero’s contributions to the Blue Jays’ offence: “Sure, he can bash home runs when he’s hitting them off his manager John Schneider, as he was at the Home Run Derby, but he doesn’t get to face Schneider night after night in the American League.”
• A groaner from RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Two Tennessee high school girls basketball teams once got banned from the playoffs for intentionally losing a game to avoid facing the top seed. The first thing that gave them away was they came out in tank tops.”
• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe.com, on San Francisco Giants’ offensive troubles: “SF Giants scored just twice (on five hits total) in their last two games. And won one. Is this what being a soccer fan is like?”
• Jon Greenberg of The Athletic, on the baseball fight between
Cleveland’s Jose Ramirez and Tim Anderson of the White Sox, the latter being a one-punch loser: “(Anderson) should get seven games for starting it and another seven for losing. That’ll teach him to square up like he’s Sonny Liston.”
• Not exactly a confidence booster for Leafs fans was a headline at yahoo.com after the Maple Leafs signed goalie Martin Jones: “Leafs sign NHL’s worst goalie of past five years”
• Vancouver comedy guy and avid Jays’ fan Steve Burgess: “There is no yawning abyss of despair to equal the sight of the Blue Jays with the bases loaded.”
• Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle, after Golden State star Steph Curry went on stage to sing with Paramore: “Great, but if Curry pulls a hammie doing this stuff, don't say I didn't warn you.”
• RJ Currie again: “A 61-year old Brit planned to televise himself getting buried alive on British TV. Here in Canada, we simply watch the Edmonton Elks.”
• Headline at the onion.com: “(Bears quarterback) Justin Fields Praises Receivers For Running Routes Despite No Intention To Ever Throw Ball
• Headline at fark.com, after a Billy Walters’ book detailed excessive gambling habits of Phil Mickelson: “Found out why Lefty wanted that LIV money”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
Changes to lab service delivery in Alberta
To improve lab testing and reduce wait times for Albertans, Alberta Precision Laboratories will now deliver community lab services across the province.
Albertans must be able to get the lab tests they need, when and where they need them. Over the past few months, delays and wait times have made accessing lab services very difficult. Since Aug. 3, Alberta Precision Laboratories has provided thousands of additional community lab appointments in Calgary, signifantly reducing wait times. However, it is clear that more needs to be done and Alberta’s government is taking action.
An agreement in principle has been reached with ownership of DynaLIFE to transfer staff, equipment and property in all regions of the province to Alberta Precision Laboratories. This work will be completed in phases with the full transition expected to be completed by December 2023. Albertans will continue to get their lab testing done at the same locations during this transition and additional appointments in Calgary and other areas will continue to be added as planned.
“Lab services are crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of Albertans. It is wholly unacceptable that Albertans had to face long waits and delays to get
simple blood work done. I’ve been clear that improving our health care system is a top priority for our government and fixing these delays is one more step we’re taking to ensure Albertans can access the health care they need, when and where they need it, now and into the future.”
Danielle Smith, Premier
Minister LaGrange’s mandate letter from the Premier included direction to resolve unacceptable lab services delays so that Albertans could access timely lab services across the province. As a result, Albertans will have greater access to the lab services they need and end unnecessary delays occurring throughout Calgary and southern Alberta.
“Albertans expect and deserve a world-class health system. This change is an important step to improve and grow lab services, and ensure Albertans have reliable and speedy access to lab testing in their communities, particulary to enable timely diagnosis and treatment. I want to thank all the health care workers who have been providing lab services, I appreciate your efforts to continue meeting the health needs of Albertans during the transition and beyond.”
Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health
All existing appointments and lab services will continue to be provided as scheduled and additional capacity
will be added in the immediate future. At this time, Albertans can continue to book their lab appointments online or by calling 1-877-702-4486.
“Our focus is on patients and ensuring the safety, accessibility and stability of lab services. We understand and appreciate the challenges that some Albertans have faced with lab services in recent months and we are dedicated to addressing these concerns. We thank all DynaLIFE team members for their continued commitment. We respect their insight and will work closely with them to incorporate feedback and support their transition to Alberta Precision Laboratories.”
Mauro Chies, president and CEO, Alberta Health Services
Quick facts
• Alberta Precision Laboratories was formed in 2018. Since December 2022, it has operated only in Alberta hospitals, urgent care centres and in rural communities where there are no additional community lab located.
• Since Aug. 3, Alberta Precision Laboratories has taken action to add additional weekly appointments, particularly in the Calgary area, by adding new appointments weekly within their hospital lab system and hiring more staff.
BYEMOOR
will be open commencing at 1:00 p.m. Ashley D.
in attendance on WEDNESDAY Sept. 6th Sept. 20th Oct. 4th Oct. 18th For appointments call
RUMMAGE SALE
HANNA HOSPITAL LADIES AUXILIARY SAT., SEPT. 23, 2023 10. AM - 3. PM
Arena Entrance - 501 - 3rd St. W, Hanna HANNA CURLING RINK Small Appliances, Soft Goods, Clothing, Housewares, etc. HANNA ARENA - SOUTH DOOR
Furniture, Large Appliances, Sporting Goods, Toys, Large Xmas Items
Phone Prior to September 21 for Thursday or Friday Pick-up 403-854-3331 - select 0 for the front office
DROP OFF HOURS ARE:
Thur., Sept. 21 - 9 AM - 8 PM • Fri. , Sept. 22 - 9 AM to 3 PM only PLEASE NOTE: Major Appliances must be in good working order. No mattresses, cribs or car seats. Items must be clean & in good repair For pick-up - items must be outside or easily accessible. VOLUNTEERS (18+) Welcome. Call 306-854-0546 or 306-854-3263
OPTION #1
OPTION #2 Replace the Window www.anchorglass.ab.ca
St. Peter’s Lutheran Church (Scapa) was originally built in 1911 to serve a Lutheran parish in Wetaskiwin. When this church disbanded in 1920, the congregation at Dowling Lake (now Scapa), decided to move the building to their community. Regular worship continued until 1978, when the congregation disbanded and the membership transferred to Redeemer Lutheran Church in Hanna. The occasional service is still held in the church, and committals are made to the adjoining cemetery.
PHOTOS
BY
KATE WINQUIST
A Healthy Relationship with Food
BY JULIA ROWLAND
A healthy relationship with food is a perspective on eating that includes physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual health around eating. Indicators of a healthy relationship with food include eating foods that fit a person’s spiritual or cultural need, eating foods without guilt or shame, eating with others, and choosing foods that provide the energy necessary for the day.
A healthy relationship with food is going to look different for each person, just like what, when, and where a person eats will look different for each person. Many factors influence eating such as culture, available money, daily activities, taste preferences, family dynamics, and more!
Current social norms tend to emphasize thinness, appearance, and shape of an individual. Have you seen a celebrity or influencer sell a certain tea/drink/food that helped them get a flat stomach? Or seen someone selling a protein powder or supplement that helped them grow their muscles? These are examples of how the culture and social norms are emphasizing people’s thinness, appearance, and shape. This can lead people to put these ideals above health. Beyond physical health, health includes dimensions such as spiritual, emotional, social, and mental. We can’t measure someone’s health, physical or otherwise, by
their body size or weight, nor should we make assumptions about the health of ourselves or someone else based on the size of their body. When we focus too much on physical health and look to outcomes such as weight, health can get worse not better.
How can a person develop a healthy relationship with food?
Instead of looking to weight or size as an indicator of healthy eating try looking at these other dimensions of food to expand your food skills and lean into having a healthy relationship with food!
• Learn about where food comes from, how it gets to the grocery store, and how the agriculture system works.
• Learn how to cook a new dish or a new ingredient.
• Focus on eating a variety of different foods from all colours of the rainbow and food groups.
• Limit distractions like having the TV or a cellphone on at mealtimes.
• Eat with other people when possible. And most importantly: choose foods that fit your budget, cultural preferences, taste preferences, and that fill you up so that you can enjoy food.
Julia Rowland is a Registered Dietitian with Alberta Health
John F. Stodalka, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Herrmann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen, Ashley D. Herrmann, Mario M. Mudri
Herrmann and Mario M. Mudri
Maxine Girletz has lived in many communities throughout Alberta and still enjoys keeping busy at her home in Oyen.
SUBMITTED
Former correspondent loves to keep busy
BY JOAN JANZEN
Maxine Girletz is a familiar name in the area, including Oyen, Cereal and Hanna. She currently resides in Oyen, and was the Cereal correspondent for many years for the Oyen Echo.
She was born in the hospital at Taber, Alberta on February 2, 1931, however in those days it was common for nurses to deliver babies in homes.
Maxine lived on a farm eleven miles south of Taber, along with her parents, a sister and a brother, who all have passed away.
She and her siblings attended a small country school two miles from her grandfather’s farmstead where they resided, and her dad worked for her grandfather. They lived in a two-room house, raised a few cows and pigs and her mom had a huge garden.
“We made our own fun. I remember running around dragging cactuses tied to bale twine, pretending it was a horse,” she recalled.
She remembers one Christmas while living at Taber when her mom bought each of the children a gift. “My brothers got jack knives and I got “Little Women” books. It was very special.”
Of course there was always a Christmas concert at school, where the children participated in a play and memorized their parts. All the costumes and decorations were made by the parents.
“When I was 12 years old we moved to Turner Valley where my dad got a job in the oilfield driving a truck. It was when the oil boom was starting,” she explained. “We lived on Spooner Corner. Mr. Spooner was an oil tycoon; the land belonged to him and we paid rent to live there.”
The children walked four miles to a country school, took their ninth grade at Turner Valley, and attended a high school located between Turner Valley and Black Diamond to complete grades 10 to 12.
After graduation, Maxine took a comptometer course in Calgary. The comptometer was the first commercial key-driven mechanical calculator. She then worked at a motor car supply store until she married in 1951 and moved to Black Diamond.
“One of my teachers at Wadena was a reverend, and later became Dean at Mount Royal in Calgary,” she recalled. “In later years he married Wilf and I. I knew he was the Dean at Mount Royal so I got in touch with him, so that was really memorable to me.”
Although it wasn’t a big wedding, they had a wedding dance in Key Hall, just outside of Millerville. In those days every little community had a community hall.
In 1957 the young couple moved to a farm north of Chinook, where they started their family. “The first two kids were born in Calgary, and one in High River and another one in Hanna,” Maxine explained. “There was a small hospital in Black Diamond, but you had to go to either High River,
Hanna or Calgary for maternity.” Their children attended school at Youngstown.
Her husband Wilf had a successful rodeo career, as well as raising award winning rodeo stock. Those were busy years for her family. “We rodeoed in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta, BC and across into the States,” she said. “But there always cowboys who came and stayed at our place when the kids were a little older.”
The cowboys helped out with chores in return for their room and board. Some would come for a few days, but would end up staying for a year or more. “I don’t think we were ever without spare kids; they were just like our own,” Maxine said. And they all managed to fit in their small 3-bedroom house, until they were able to build a more spacious home in 1968.
“Through the years I timed rodeo events. I did quite a few in Saskatchewan and Alberta,” she said. And while she was at home cooking and caring for numerous boarders, she also found time to sew all the clothes for herself, her kids and her husband. That included all their shirts and jeans for rodeo events. As her kids got older, they built rodeo grounds on their property.
It was a community project with friends and neighbours helping with the welding, painting and construction, and a neighbour lady helped with the food booth. Their 69 Corral Rodeo was held annually just prior to the Medicine Hat Rodeo. It was a big event, with their neighbours, and people from Saskatchewan and beyond attending. The younger crowd came on weekends to practice and started their rodeo career there.
After Maxine and her husband separated, she moved to Cereal where she assisted the kindergarten teacher at school, had her own play-school and helped work at her daughter’s store. It was at that time that Maxine began writing the Cereal local news for The Oyen Echo, continuing to do so even after she had to undergo surgery after suffering from a heart attack.
She lived in Cereal for quite a few years, before moving to Oyen. At Oyen she helped babysit her great grandkids, and eventually moved into an apartment, and then to a suite at Oyen Lodge. Maxine has four children: Glenda, Randy, Ray and Kevin, as well as seven grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren. Wilf was killed in a rodeo accident in 1995.
At the age of 92 years, Maxine is one very busy lady. She does her own cleaning, cooking and loves to bake. “We have small garden patches here, so I have three of those. I love gardening!” Maxine said. “With my produce I make pickles, freeze stuff, make a lot of salsa, spaghetti sauce and jams. And I still like to walk quite a bit too. My motto is ‘don’t sit around or you’ll lose your legs’.”
However you probably won’t find Maxine sit ting around, if you pay her a visit. She’ll be busy doing something.
Community newspapers are living history books, recording all facets of the lives of community residents, as well as providing news that is relevant to them.
14, 2023
Posting Date
1. GEOGRAPHY: What South American country lies between Colombia and Peru?
2. MEDICAL TERMS: What is the more common name for a contusion?
3. CHEMISTRY: What is the chemical element symbol for tungsten?
4. MATH: What is the Arabic equivalent of the Roman numerals DXC?
5. U.S. STATES: What is the state capital of Michigan?
6. LANGUAGE: What does the Greek suffix “gamy” mean in English?
7. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What is a group of domesticated turkeys called?
8. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the first president to fly in an airplane (while in office)?
9. TELEVISION: What is the name of the dog on “Family Guy” animated series?
10. AD SLOGANS: “The dogs kids love to bite” are made by which company? © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.
Sadly, there's no such thing as the "News Fairy." Want to see more of your community in the local newspaper? Send us your news tips, story ideas, coming events, and requests for coverage. Call or text: 306-463-2211 Email: kate@yoursouthwest.com
Ecuador.; 2. A bruise.; 3. W.; 4. 590.; 5. Lansing.; 6. Marriage.;
A rafter.; 8. Franklin D. Roosevelt.; 9. Brian.; 10. Armour.
Prairie Elevator Fundraiser to be held August 24
REPORTED BY YOLANDA KUHN
yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582
So, the last time I sat down to write the news, it was June 29th, and I was talking about the heat. Here I am on August 17th, and I’m still talking about the heat! It’s 35 degrees here today, and man am I ever thankful we have air conditioning! I’m cooking a harvest meal for the field, and the oven is on. I don’t think I could do that without air conditioning! They’re calling for rain next week, although it’s clearly too late for the crops. I sure hope we get some moisture.
I also apologize for the mishap with my last news submission; ap-
parently, I sent the news from June 2022, and neither of us caught it. I did post the proper article on Facebook.
My family enjoyed our holidays at the lake in July, and we dove right into harvest once we got back.
Congratulations to Dan and Whitney Grudecki on the birth of their son Bryant Vincent Robert Grudecki, who was born on July 10th.
Congratulations to Kim and Braden Peers, who were married on a hot day outside of the elevator on
July 22nd. They had a reception in the hall afterwards.
Condolences to the Meers family on the passing of Mervin Meers. A funeral was held in Acadia Valley on July 28th.
Congratulations to Abby Hayhurst and Ben Knapik who were the first recipients of The Rec. Club’s “Youth in Sport Scholarship.” They each received $500 to put towards the cost of their extra-curricular sports.
The Prairie Elevator has been busy serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner all summer. This year they’ve added Didy Smoke it pulled pork and brisket wraps to their menu. They’re open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Make
sure to stop by before they close on September 4th.
Mark your calendar for Thursday, August 24th, The Prairie Elevator will be hosting a fundraiser BBQ and an outdoor movie, and they’ll be showing Back to the Future!
Sacred Heart and St. Mary’s Parish are raising funds for renovations to St. Peter & Paul Church. If you would like to donate towards this project, cheques can be mailed to Box 629, Oyen, AB, T0J 2J0. Please make a note in the cheque memo “St. Peter & Paul fundraiser.”
Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with this quote from an unknown author “August, it’s the Sunday of Summer.”
Investing in Alberta’s wetlands and watersheds
Watersheds are areas of land that drain rainfall and snowmelt into steams, rivers and lakes which, in turn, help support healthy communities and ecosystems. Each year, the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program works to increase the natural capacity of Alberta’s watersheds to reduce the intensity, magnitude, duration and effects from flooding and droughts.
This year, Alberta’s government is providing $3.5 million to fund 22 projects in rural and urban communities through the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program. The funding is helping restore riverbanks and wetlands, protect streambanks and improve natural drainage among other projects.
“Strengthening the long-term health of Alberta’s wetlands, river basins and watersheds is very important to our government. Equally important is helping create natural ways to combat drought and water shortages in the future. That’s why
we’re working with local communities and other partners to help fund practical projects that benefit communities across this province.”
Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas
To date, Alberta’s government has allocated more than $43 million to flood and drought resilience projects through the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program, including $19.6 million since 2019. This funding has helped with the restoration, enhancement and conservation of more than 4,500 hectares of wetlands and riparian areas since 2014.
A full project list, including more information on the newly funded projects and information on how to apply for future funding, is available online.
Quick facts
• Projects are led by stewardship organizations, non-profits, Indigenous communities and municipalities to restore critical wetland and riparian areas and
promote the ongoing stewardship and preservation of critical watershed features.
• Projects funded by the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program have led to more than 3,400 hectares of critical watershed lands being conserved in perpetuity under easements funded under the Alberta Land
Trust Grant Program.
• More than 7,000 Albertans have participated in training workshops funded through this program on natural restoration techniques and other practices that enhance watershed resiliency.
• The next application deadline for Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program funding is Sept. 15.
Town of Oyen Library Booknotes
FICTION:
Children of Memory – By Adrian Tchaikovsky
Rock Bottom Girl – By Lucy Score
Meant to be: Dual Image; and One Summer: two novels in one – By Nora Roberts
Murder is a Piece of Cake – By V. M. Burns
The Happiness Plan – By Susan Mallery Tom Lake: a novel – By Ann Patchett
Windfall: a novel of suspense – By Wendy Corsi Staub
NON-FICTION : The Underworld: journeys to the depths of the Ocean – By Susan Casey
CURBSIDE
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.
Dayna Wilson, Library Manager
Library Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7 403-664-3644 ext. 2 aoymlibrary@marigold.ab.ca www.oyenlibrary.ca www.facebook.com/OyenLibrary
CORRECTION: We apologize to MacLeans Funeral Home for misidentifying Ken Shubert in last week’s photo. Missing from the photo were: Kevin, Dean and Bonnie.
Community seminar held at Sedalia
BY JOAN JANZEN
A two-day community seminar was held at Sedalia Community Hall on August 18th and 19th. The guest speaker was John Graff, president of Living Streams, a non-profit organization based in the Regina area, which was formed in 2018. He spoke to approximately 45 citizens from the Sedalia region in an effort to help them build their community and make it stronger and more self-sufficient.
Throughout the weekend, he gave his listeners access to a wealth of information on food supplies and alternative energy systems. At the back table,
ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH ACADIA VALLEY
Fr. Rodel Abanto 403-589-9300 Rectory 403-664-3603 Sunday Mass 7:00 PM
Rev. Catherine Holland Sunday at 11:00 am oyenanglicanchurch
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH OYEN
Fr. Rodel Abanto 403-589-9300 shoyen@telus.net 415 - 5th Avenue East Sunday Mass 11:00 am Thursday Mass - 11:00 am (1st Thursday of the month) Friday Mass - 10:00 am 2nd-5th Friday of the month 6:30 pm at Extended Care
OYEN EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH Summer Worship Service 10:00 am 403-664-2139
JOHN ANGLICAN NEW BRIGDEN Rev. Catherine Holland Call 403-664-2094 for worship times. UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA PIONEER PASTORAL CHARGE 403-664-3987 pioneerpastoralcharge@gmail.com
he had samples of a monthly newsletter available for people to read and share with others.
Graff not only farms with his wife and four children but also has broad career experience. He is a former Olds College Professor, an expert in ag production, a Bible teacher, a consultant to world leaders on food security, a former consultant to big pharma, and a corporate executive. He’s also worked as an animal nutritionist for cattle producers in this region. Now he uses his science, business and academic background to provide information networks so farmers, ranchers, business owners and citizens can help one another within their own community.
He started offering courses in November 2022 on a wide range of topics—a portion of his instruction centres around the technical components of ways to provide alternative energy sources.
“As a college instructor, there are certain classes I teach, but we have other people who are experts in fermentation and animal classes. It’s amazing when you look at a community interacting with people. There are people all around who have interests that they have become experts in. They spend hours and hours researching and perfecting. We have to have a system where those people
can pass on their expertise.”
Graff teaches courses in off-grid energy, how to make a home space heater and courses on solar power. He brings in teachers who offer classes on canning, agriculture, bread baking, gardening, beef and dairy production, making cheese and yogurt, and animal nutrition. However, he emphasizes that every community has experts who live right in their own neighbourhood.
“Farmers have a key place in our society. As we see farmers decrease in percentage of the population, we see society creep further and further away from believing in the beauty of God’s provision. Young people only have a theoretical understanding of where their food and provision comes from,” he observed. As a dad, he loves teaching his kids how to get dirt and grease under their fingernails, gaining hands-on experience in the food production process.
The goal of his non-profit organization is to help other groups around the country set up and get organized, teaching people they can provide for themselves if they need to. This is one aspect that can relieve stress for people.
“We’re trying to show that we have value in our communities. That individuals have value, and they can serve others,” he concluded.
John Graff, President of the non-profit organization Living Streams, spoke at a seminar at Sedalia, AB, on Aug. 18th and 19th. He encouraged communities to become stronger, more connected and more self-sufficient.
PHOTO BY JOAN JANZEN
Classifieds
AUCTIONS
MEIER FIREARM AND SPORTSMAN AUCTION
August 26 10AM. Rifles, Shotguns, Ammo., Hunting Supplies. 4740 57 ST Wetaskiwin. Consignments accepted up to sale time. For More Details visit www. meierauction.com; PH 780 440-1860.
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME
BUILDINGS since 2008
BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@ integritybuilt.com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
SUCCESSFUL WELLMAINTAINED 24 room motel in west central Saskatchewan with 2 bedroom owners suite. $625K. Serious enquiries only Please direct questions via e-mail to: stang@sasktel.net.
COMING EVENTS
FIREARMS WANTED FOR OUR 2023 AUCTION PROGRAM: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Antiques, Militaria, Collections, Estates, Single Items. For Auction, or Possible Purchase: Toll-Free 1-800-6942609, Email Us @ sales@ switzersauction.com
or Visit Us @ www. switzersauction.com.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
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 $799 to get your message out! Auctions, Employment Opportunities, Feed and Seed, For Sale, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 80 plus 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.
FEED AND SEED
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.
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.
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
PINTAIL WINTER
WHEAT - Extremely hardy. Awnless. High yielding variety for forage or feed grain production. Low inputs. High profits. Call 403-556-2609 or text 403-994-2609. mastinseeds.com
HEALTH
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. 1-844-453-5372.
REAL ESTATE
HOUSE TO BE MOVED: 952 sqft bungalow in Lougheed AB. Must be
Classifieds CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
moved off current lot this year (2023) $29,900. Call (403) 816 8422. Services
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/ licensing loss? Travel/ business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-3472540. 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
TRAVEL
WARM UP and HEAD WEST THIS WINTER: Osoyoos BC is a haven
for snowbirds looking to experience mild winter weather and an abundance of activities! Hotel suites start at just $425/week with more savings for monthly stays. Learn more at www. osoyoossnowbirds.com. To request information on wintering in Osoyoos, visit osoyoossnowbirds. com, call the Osoyoos Visitor Centre at 1-888-OSOYOOS (1888-676-9667), or email: visit@destinationosoyoos. com.
WANTED
BUYING LARGE AMOUNTS OF COINS & COIN COLLECTIONS! Purchasing ENTIRE COLLECTIONS & accumulations. Also buying bullion, jewelry, scrap, nuggets, sterling, gold, silver, platinum, estate collections +++ TODD 250-864-3521
CLASSIFIED AD RATES (20 words or less).
Deadline is Friday noon. 306-463-2211
is currently seeking a
Required starting January 8, 2024 until approximately mid July 2024, with some work available until mid September. No experience necessary.
Duties include: Planting, watering, moving and packing plants. Wage $16.52 per hour. Send or drop off your resume to: Oyen Greenhouses Ltd., 201-1st Ave. West | PO Box 358 Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 • Fax 403-664-3326 Email :accounting@oyengreenhouses.ca
Preferably with Sage Accounting experience for a fast-paced environment. Strong computer skills including spreadsheets and word processing are required. Applicant must be able to establish work priorities and ensure deadlines are met. Excellent customer service skills, willingness to learn and ability to work unsupervised are a must. Will be required to do bookkeeping, enter orders and invoice plant products, as well as general office duties.
This is a full time position. Salary $26.60 to $31.40 per hour depending on experience.
PLEASE SEND RESUME TO:
Email: accounting@oyengreenhouses.ca
Fax: 403-664-3326
Mail: Box 358, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 OR drop one off.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Dry Country Gas Co-op Ltd. is currently seeking a Part-Time Billing Clerk
Duties include:
- Answering phones- entering meter reads into GasMan program
- Processing payments
- Performing bill runs
- Filing
- Bank reconciliation
- Perform other related duties as requested or necessitated by technical or operational developments.
Requirements:
- Applicant requires computer skills, including knowledge of Excel and Word.
- A related one-year certificate from a recognized post-secondary institution or two years previous administrative experience
The position will be 2 1/2 to 3 days per week 9:00 - 12:00, 12:30 - 4:30.
Deadline for applicants will be Aug. 30, 2023. Forward resume to: Dry Country Gas Co-op Ltd. c/o Gene Hauck or email to gene dcg@telus.net Only individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.
Find out first-hand how rewarding WORKING IN THE
CAN
Journeyman or 4th Year Plumber
Entry Level or 2nd Year Plumber
- Competitive Wages
- Full Benefits Package
- Company Matched RSP/DPSP
- Employee Discounts & More!
Email resume to jeanabaker@lukplumbing.com
ACADIA VALLEY
* Yoga in The Valley Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:00 PM in the Hall. Call/text Jamie 403-548-5146 for more info.
CEREAL
* Mondays - Cereal Board of Trade BINGO. Doors open 6:30 PM. Bingo starts 7:30 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
* Tuesdays - Cereal Cottages Weekly Coffee Time 9:30 AM
* Cereal Prairie Pioneer Museum Open to the Public in August. Call 403-326-3769 to book your private tour!
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27
• Cereal & District Athletic Association presents the 2023 Cereal Kids Rodeo. Free Admission for specta tors! Rodeo action starts at 10:00 AM. On-site conces sion. Join us for the day and cheer on the local youth!
EMPRESS
SA
• Empress & District Historical Society “Whistle Stop Supper” with Berk Jodoin.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23
• Epic Travels to the Treehouse
THURSDAY, AUGUST 24
• Epic Travels to P.O.
• Conversation Café
FRIDAY, AUGUST 25
• Movie Night at the Pool
SATURDAY, AUGUST 26
• Cornhole Tournament
• 2 Person Cash Scramble
• Conversation Café
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27
• Eva Levesque LIVE at Music in the Park
• Final Public Swim
OYEN
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
• Regular Pot Luck Supper and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors 6:00 PM at Seniors Centre. Mark this on your calendar for the fall. New members are very welcome.
OCTOBER 27-28
• 6th Annual Highway 41 Pheasant Festival
* Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Tuesday of every month 7:00-9:00 PM in Council Chambers
YOUNGSTOWN
* Youngstown’s Back In Time Museum & Antiques Open 10-6 PM Thursday-Monday until September Long Weekend.
HANNA