Hello everyone! Hope everyone is enjoying their summer and making the most of the warm weather! We sure have been busy this summer at the lodge flling our days with lots of activities! We were so excited to be a part of the parade this past month, let alone winning the best foat, thank you to everyone who voted for us it was so special and we
are so thankful! The residents also have enjoyed a few trips this month - we got to visit A&W for lunch at the beginning of the month and we then enjoyed our food at the clock tower, we also got to have a wonderful lunch down in Acadia Valley at the tea house which was so yummy! The residents also really enjoyed the tour thank you for hosting us!
This month we also enjoyed our up in the clouds tea party and a
very wonderful ice cream parlour with all the fxings! The Oyen Daycare also came to visit us here a few times this month and that was a blast from playing outside to even making bracelets and nail painting thank you for coming to see us.
Can’t wait to see what August will bring us and the rest of summer! Hope everyone else has some fun things planned for the rest of summer.
PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
Scholarship and Bursary recipients announced by BCAS
Riley Dziatkewich
Ryley Dziatkewich grew up on a small organic grain farm near Oyen.
“Living on a farm most of my life has taught me many valuable lessons and created many opportunities for me,” she said in her applications.
Involved in her community, Ryley varied her volunteering from sports events to visiting the senior citizen lodge.
“My passions include horseback riding, snowboarding, volleyball and hunting. Being immersed in this lifestyle taught me to persevere, how to be patient, and how to look at my existence with gratitude for what I have in life.”
While taking part in the South Central High School Student Mentorship program, Ryley was a mentee for two years, then a mentor for two years, engaging with young people and teaching them about her passions and discovering theirs. The program came to an end at the beginning of the pandemic. Coronavirus also ended her visits with the seniors at the lodge. “They had so many wonderful stories and gave me a new perspective on life,” said Ryley.
From grades 8 through 12, Ryley volunteered as a ref at school and community sports. She also volunteered for the Big Country Agricultural Society in the kitchen, helped with ground set-ups during events, cleaning and helping with organization of events. “I really enjoy the atmosphere at the arena and engaging
with various people.”
She volunteered for the Badlands Badgers Baseball Academy as well.
“I love being at the diamonds and helping out a local organization that brings the community together.”
After graduating in 2022 from South Central High School in Oyen, Ryley continued her educational journey at the University of Alberta in Edmonton.
“I am taking a Bachelor of Science in Animal Health Sciences after switching from Kinesiology. I hope to continue on to a career in animal genetics. I am most looking forward to working with animals at the university farm on South Campus and gaining more knowledge in the agricultural feld,” concludes Ryley.
Ryley was awarded a 2022 Big Country Agricultural Society Scholarship and a Jardine Bursary.
Big Country Agricultural Society Scholarship VALUE: $1,000 - NUMBER: 2
CRITERIA: Students must have attended a school within Prairie Rose School Division north of the Red Deer River, or any school within Prairie Land School Division. Must be enrolled at a post-secondary institution in a course that would enhance rural living. Proof of registration must be included. The scholarship is given in two parts: the frst half in the fall; the second half upon receipt of proof of registration in second semester.
APPLICATION: Applicants are asked to write a letter to the bursary committee describing their course, providing information about him/herself, their volunteer and community participation, and plans for the future. Transcripts may be included, but are not mandatory. Preference will be given to applicants who have volunteered at the Crossroads Centre or for the Big Country Agricultural Society in any way. Include Name, Date, Mailing Address, Email Address and other contact information.
Address applications to: Big Country Agricultural Society Scholarship Committee Box 446, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0
Email: thebcasofce@gmail.com
(Subject Line: BCAS Scholarship) 403-664-6600
DEADLINE: August 15, 2023
After graduating from South Central High School, Oyen, in 2022, Nicole Bodnaruk, headed of in the fall to the University of Alberta in Edmonton to take a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in Animal Science.
“Growing up in Cappon, a rural area surrounded by cattle and grain, has led me to fnd a passion in agriculture, one in which I would like to pursue,” said Nicole in her BCAS Scholarship application.
In an email in January 2023, Nicole wrote, “After a lot of adjustment, I settled into a routine for my frst semester and got used to living in the city. My frst semester went well. I joined the Agriculture club at the University and made new friends. The start of my second semester is going good. I’m taking four classes,
including an Animal Science class which I have really been enjoying. I am also taking part in volunteering at the Dairy Barn in the South Campus whenever I have free time.”
In her application for the Jardine Bursary, Nicole said, “In my program, I get to examine the specifc aspects of animals and livestock. I will gain knowledge and practical skills in animal production systems.
“ Nicole has volunteered at the Crossroads Centre for multiple functions and helped with Meals on Wheels and a bottle drive while in high school.
“After completing my Bachelor of Science, I would like to further my education in the feld of Veterinary Medicine,” concluded Nicole.
Nicole was the 2022 recipient of a Big Country Agricultural Society Scholarship and a Jardine Bursary.
Rose Jardine Bursary
AMOUNT: $500-$1000 (awarded in December)
NUMBER: 1-3
CONDITIONS & CRITERIA: Ofered to students from Oyen and area who are registered and succeeding in a program at a post-secondary institution. Preference will be given to students who have volunteered in their community and are enrolled in programs that will give them potential for future community involvement. Preference is also given to students enrolled in their second, third or fourth years of a postsecondary program.
APPLICATIONS: Applicants are asked
Lynne Mactavish
to write a letter to the bursary committee describing their course, providing information about themselves, their volunteer and community participation and plans for the future. Applications should include proof of registration at a post-secondary institution, date, name, email address, mailing address and phone number.
All recreational vehicle owners are reminded of Traffic Bylaw #640-82, when parking holiday and boat trailers on public roads.
Parking on the street longer than 48 consecutive hours is in violation.
Trailers must be attached to a towing vehicle.
Trailers must be registered and insured.
UnsightlyPremises
Patrols continue to ensure compliance with the Unsightly Premises Bylaw #947-2009 to include overgrown grass, weeds, accumulated household garbage and other large items improperly stored.
Questions? Phone the Town Office at (403) 854-4433
Complaints? Visit hanna.ca/report-a-concern
- 19
Enjoy Potter-themed programs including:
August7
Office: Closed
Cent Place: Closed Library: Closed Mondays
Pool: Open: 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Waste Transfer Site & Garbage Pick-Up: Closed Mondays
NEWS UPDATE
COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
July was a warm month in Oyen flled with recreation and a few fun events thrown in! The Oyen Lion’s Club hosted a Canada Day celebration July 1st in partnership with Oyen FCSS. The delicious lunch and activities were enjoyed by all who attended. The Oyen Agriculture Society hosted the second annual Oyen Indoor Rodeo July 14 & 15 and were thrilled with the support from the community. A storefront rodeo decorating contest took place, a Town parade, free pancake breakfast (sponsored by Oyen Chamber), day-flled activities at the Crossroads Centre, two evening rodeo performances, and a Saturday night Cabaret flled the Town with excited visitors and locals.
Upcoming in August, the Town of Oyen is offering swimming lessons at the Shirley McClellan Aquatic Centre. Session 1 runs from July 31 – Aug 4, session 2 runs from Aug 14 – 18. Call (403) 664-7946 to register. On August 10th stop by the Oyen Funeral Services for food, refreshments, cake, and games to celebrate their 100th year of service! What an amazing milestone! The Oyen Golf Club is hosting the 3rd Annual Bow Valley Power 4 man Scramble August 12 & 13. Call the clubhouse at (403) 664-2555 to register.
Thank-you to everyone who volunteers in our community in one way or another. You are greatly appreciated! If your group or organization has an upcoming event or local news, email Nancy at communications@oyen.ca or call (403) 664-3511.
I want to give a shout out to our local Minor Ball executive for volunteering and getting youth playing baseball in our community! Congratulations to Ayden Anderson & Josh Rolheiser for making it on to Zone 1 & Zone 2 Alberta Summer Games teams representing Oyen at this year’s U15 summer games! Congratulations to our U15 girls for winning silver at Softball Alberta Provincial Championships in Grande Prairie. A congratulation goes out to Luke Caskey for winning gold at the Provincial Championship AAA U18 level. Wishing Luke the best of luck at the Baseball Alberta Elite Championships in Red Deer & at the Rawlings Cup at the end of the summer!
We also want to wish Jude Martin, Bennet Anderson, Dyson DuBussac, Ayden Anderson, Josh Rolheiser, Sawyer Smigelski, Paxton Smigelski, Brandt Lyster, Lennix Girletz, Cruz Evans, Jayden Stewart, Colton Cowan, Bentley Bowles, Koen Anderson, and Keifer Anderson at their upcoming Provincial Championships! To see this many Oyen ball players competing at a higher level of Alberta baseball and softball is impressive! Hats off to the parents and players for their ongoing dedication and support.
The Badland Badgers are looking for billet homes for the 2023/2024 season. It is very rewarding to open up your doors to a stranger that quickly becomes part of your family. If you are interested in billeting, please contact (403)664-9875.
In July we did not hold a Town Council Meeting, so I am looking forward to hearing from my councillors and staff at the next meeting August 8th at 7:00pm in the Town Council Chambers. I hope everyone is enjoying the warm weather having a great summer.
Affordable housing gives people hope OPINION: Check it out
BY JOAN JANZEN
Iread someone’s account of ofering help to a stranger. While at a gas station, a man overheard a young woman tell two men to leave her alone. The young man quickly approached the woman and two men and asked her, “How was the meeting today, darling?”
She looked at him and replied, “It was good. I’ll tell you about it when we get home.” The two men immediately left, and the relieved woman ofered the stranger her heartfelt gratitude. The hero made sure the two men left before he walked back to his car and hoped that someone would do the same thing for his daughter by ofering a solution to a vulnerable person.
In Canada, there are resources being ofered as simple solutions to complex problems. Douglas Murray wrote an opinion piece in The Spectator, giving examples of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) being presented as a cure for anorexia, PTSD and mental illness. “It all starts from
a kindly place and includes freedom of choice. And it seems a logical enough step to decide that something so hard to cure might have a simple answer,” he wrote.
While being interviewed on Spectator TV, Murray said, “It’s one of the worst messages possible to send out to young people. But you can get away with almost anything if you wrap it up in the language of compassion.”
But on the fip side, there are charitable and non-proft organizations that are taking steps to fnd solutions. Faytene TV interviewed Marcel Lebrun from the organization called 12 Neighbors in New Brunswick.
He observed that people who are homeless don’t have hope and subsequently often sufer from mental illness, physical illness, addictions and poverty. It was apparent to him that homelessness leads to all of those problems.
“The causes of homelessness are complex,” Marcel said, “But the solution is simple. Housing is the foundation, after which people can work on
TO THE EDITOR:
The power of the wind with the help of O&G!
It takes more than just wind to make giant land pixies work.
Granted, it will create jobs that have a revolving door as climbing 2-3 of these a day on a shift is hard on the body and mind (especially when something is forgotten at the bottom), and the pay is not enticing! Most are looking for handyman status and a certain weight class (cannot be over 260 pounds)
The quick breeze through a course in the east or south of the 49th is no trade by a means to have one learn Aeronautics (blade pitch), with mechanic knowledge for greasing and oil changes (each tower uses nearly 1200 litres/300 gallons of PAO oil [Polyalphaolefn oil at near $90 CAD for 32oz] per tower.
Then the generator part, which spews out above 600 volts, requires a solid understanding of electricity and the dangers
All this is basically to cover a company’s backside with a quick course!
As I drive to and from BC from Alberta many, many times, it is observed that these units are sitting idle (hundreds of them can be seen from Alberta No. 3 doing nothing even on a breezy day when highway tractors feel uneasy), so O&G is on the hook for power that is used 24/7 - not part-time!
It is part time for 30,000 homes at best, and as winter approaches, it gets worse.
I really get a great chuckle reading some of these articles that fail to mention the power, energy, fuel, minerals, and resources along with manpower required to make land-polluting wind pixies to get part-time energy input to an ever-increasing full time 24/7 consumption.
— Adam Badzioch Hanna
all those other challenges. We start with housing because you can’t work on any other challenges in your life if you’re just surviving. That’s the starting point to building more distance between people and homelessness.”
Statistics state 235,000 Canadians are homeless today, which doesn’t include hidden homeless who are couch surfng at the homes of friends. Most homeless are between the ages of 25-49.
He began the project after asking himself what it looks like to love your neighbour? Now the organization is building 99 tiny homes, where people pay 30% of their income as rent. The houses are a starting point, after which the organization invests in their personal development.
In spite of government pouring money into emergency shelters, people are being turned down because of lack of room. Marcel noted it’s important for the government to have partnerships with non-profts, charities and private sectors; 12 Neighbours has support from both the provincial and federal governments.
He said the challenge in this economy, with labour shortages and materials, is fnding organizations that can make things happen. His organization has people from all across Canada of-
fering volunteer service throughout the year, making it possible to build a tiny home every four days.
“Governments can provide funds, but it’s hard for governments to get things done,” Marcel observed. Volunteers are the real equity of their organization. And investing in charitable organizations, such as his, make economic sense. A study showed that for every dollar given to a charity, there’s about a six-dollar value that’s given back to the community.
Marcel’s advice is - you want to provide hope and dignity for people by changing their situation for the better. Providing afordable housing gives people both hope and dignity.
“It’s a whole lot more difcult to spend yourself on others, by giving your time and attention, than to give them a few dollars,” Marcel said. “My advice to Canadians is - don’t just do the easy things, but think about how you can build relationships, get to know people, and invest in their long-term transformation.” It may be an alternative to quick government solutions wrapped in compassionate messaging.
Charitable organizations and non-profts can be part of the solution as communities work together to get things done.
KATE WINQUIST Publisher/Photographer ROBERT WINQUIST Circulation JOAN JANZEN Journalist HARLAND LESYK Sales Manager
JORDAN PARKER Freelance Journalist PATTI MORAN Production GREG PAULHUS Web/Social Media
Pop89: That Came Out of Me?
BY MADONNA HAMEL
Every year around this time, I teach writing to teens. Initially, we met in person, in a room at the Swift Current library, but now we meet online. The students come from all over the province. They live in both cities and remote areas. They come armed with stories, ideas, favourite words and an urge to write. And the urge does not die down over the week. In fact, despite the heat, the long hours spent sitting and listening to others read and, above all, spent scribbling whatever rises up in their passionate minds - the urge to write increases. A crack in their armour of coolness allows a waterfall of worry and wonder to break through.
All day long, they wrestle with language, dreams, secrets and themes. I don’t know adults with this much drive. Or is it need? Either way, they want to be here, and they want to be with each other because they already know that writing is a lonely business.
Some of the gang are return students, some I’ve known for over fve years. I’m thrilled to see them grow along with their characters. The older ones feel like guardians of the space; they set the tone, keep the focus. They may not know this, but their presence is felt.
I recall something my mom told me as a voice teacher to young people: “The greatest thrill is when a student practices and practices and then one day they sing something so exquisite the look on their surprised face says: What?! That came out of me?!” Yes, I say, that came from you. You have drunk from a mysterious source of power greater than yours alone, and because you sit here, day after day, sweating over a line and a phrase and an illusive image, the reward of your hard work shows in the words you read to us. Yes, you wrote that. Our art is more than us; it is our prophet, running ahead of us, lighting the path, I say. You might like something you wrote but can’t say why. Write it down anyway, I say. It will make sense to you in a day or year, or decade. Just show up. Fully and completely, ie: bravely.
That it works, I believe, has something to do with the group. We sit like tale-tellers around a campfre. A lot has been written about crowds and power - mostly negative warnings about how easily swayed a group can become. But there is much to be said about witnessing in groups- an ancient practice among congregations bent on making the whole greater, in spirit and intent, than the sum of its parts.
“That was brilliant,” one young writer says to another. “Yeah,” adds one more. “I didn’t see that coming, the twist at the end, the way he made you think someone had died when actually they had just been set free.” “Really, you liked that?” says the writer, not sure, “I thought it might be corny.” “No way, it was a fantastic ending.” And, buoyed up by the response and support, the young writer lets the story live and grow.
As I watch these teens, I remember my days as a teenager. I was full of self-pity and fear. I believed I saw things nobody else saw. I sufered from a case of terminal uniqueness, but then what teen doesn’t? What I could have used was a group of others like me, passionate about reading and writing. But instead, I isolated myself in my room with cups of tea and books I could never fnish
and a typewriter I could never make talk.
Every generation has its own “comportment, a glance, a smile of its own, “ wrote Charles Baudelaire, a nineteenth-century poet. I think every generation gets a little smarter than the one before it, too. I don’t mean they can add numbers faster in their heads - because they have calculators on their phones for crying out loud. I don’t mean they can ever know what it feels like to get old any sooner than it takes to get old because getting old means having hundreds and thousands of days and nights waking up and going to sleep and blowing your nose and getting your heart broken and losing hair or your looks or your memory. That’s body wisdom - it takes as long as it takes.
What I mean is: we don’t let them be naive or innocent or carefree for as long as we did when we were young. They know there’s no Santa far too early. I am shocked at how many have already decided there’s no God. They feel the pressure to go it alone so soon. Because they’ve been catapulted into an adult world from the moment they discover their opposable thumbs - their phones assault them with images and ideas about sex, violence and consumption that normalize extremes before they enter their double digits.
Remember when we watched Bugs Bunny and Wile E. Coyote? Remember when someone decided maybe all those anvils falling from the sky on Wile E’s head and those steam rollers fattening Sylvester were pointlessly violent? Well, welcome to a whole new level of violence. The intricate ways young writers describe eliminating drunken parents, schoolyard bullies, and evil interplanetary forces is breathtaking. There is a cocky, sarcastic imagination at play that catches on like a match to a dry grassy feld. Every year I talk about gratuitous violence- what one screenwriter describes as “gorenography”- as not a valid way to advance a plot.
Sometimes it just takes a reminder that a careful, original depiction of a perfectly made sandwich, or the way the light comes bursting through the trees, will stick with a reader far longer than (yet another) over-the-top, lurid description to total obliteration. And then, look out, they’re of, making something miraculous. “Hey, I wrote that,” they laugh. “That came out of me!”
MP Kurek Hosts Town Halls in the Special Areas
Youngstown, AB — Battle River-Crowfoot
Member of Parliament Damien C. Kurek visited Oyen, Empress and Youngstown earlier this month, continuing his 2023 town halls.
“It’s important to me that I hear from folks about how they are feeling about the state of our nation,” Kurek said, “and to have a conversation.”
The July 5th meetings saw over 60 constituents attend throughout the SouthEastern portion of Battle River—Crowfoot.
Kurek discussed a variety of topics, including local concerns, his work in Ottawa, frustrations with the Federal Government, and issues pertaining to rural Canada. He shared some of the solutions that Pierre Poilievre and Canada's Conservatives are offering Canadians.
A major local concern in all three communities was the drought that the Special Areas and many areas of Alberta are currently experiencing.
Constituents also
voiced their frustration with Liberal failures with grants like Canada Summer Jobs, mental health concerns, energy production and usage, and the military.
Kurek fnished each of his town halls by thanking the attendees and the venues where he hosted.
“A big part of my job as your Member of Parliament is to talk to you about the issues we discussed here today, but many folks don't realize that their M.P. can provide constituents with assistance with
federal government programs. If you have one of those concerns, please feel free to reach out and we'll do everything we can to help.”
You can contact the Battle River—Crowfoot constituency ofce for assistance by calling 1.800.665.4358 or by emailing Damien. Kurek@parl.gc.ca.
Damien Kurek met with residents of Oyen at a Town Hall on July 5. PHOTO SUPPLIED
John F. Stodalka, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Herrmann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen, Ashley D. Herrmann, Mario M. Mudri
Mudri
World Cup win would cement Sinclair’s legacy
BY BRUCE PENTON
If an unseeded player like Marketa Vondrousova can shock the tennis world and win the women’s singles at Wimbledon, if eighth-seeded Florida Panthers can make it all the way to the Stanley Cup fnal, then there’s no reason why Canada’s women’s soccer team can’t win the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
For the sake of Christine Sinclair, perhaps the world’s greatest female soccer player ever, a win by Canada at the 2023 championship currently being staged in Australia and New Zealand would be a perfect capper to Sinclair’s cap-flled career on the pitch.
Sinclair’s skills are still world class, but the Burnaby, B.C. star is 40 years old and, well, Old Man (or Women) Time always wins in the end. With more than 320 caps (international games while representing her country) to her credit and a world-best 190 goals in those games, Sinclair’s status as the best female soccer player of all time is secure, but her career is missing one important ingredient: a FIFA Women’s World Cup championship.
Canada is not one of the world’s powers in the sport, but our country is not one of the worst, either. Ranked seventh in the world going into the World Cup, it wouldn’t be considered a gigantic upset if Sinclair and Co. were to win. After all, the team reached the quarter-fnals when it hosted the World Cup back in 2015. Canada also has a gold and two bronze medals in the past three Olympics.
The Canadian team competed in a pool with
Nigeria, Republic of Ireland and Australia, and fnishes the round-robin portion of the event July 31. Finishing frst or second in their pool would put the Canadians into the playof round of 16 starting Aug. 4.
A heavy dose of humility comes over Sinclair whenever someone calls her the best player in the world, but the numbers back it up. And winning the FIFA Women’s World Cup in her sixth attempt would settle the ‘world’s-best’ argument for good.
It’s unlikely Sinclair would be around for a seventh Women’s World Cup in 2027, but if she still knows how to put the ball into the net, and is tired of doing commercials for the sandwich chain Subway, retirement might be pushed back. If Gordie Howe can play in the NHL at age 51, Christine Sinclair still scoring big goals on the world stage at age 44 is not out of the question.
• An RJ Currie groaner at sportsdeke.com: “Iowa frefghters were surprised to fnd a man they just rescued from a chimney was buck naked. That’s right, wearing his birthday soot.”
• Phil Mushnick of the New York Post:, who hated the MLB all-star game uniforms: “Once again, the fnal score in the MLB All Star Game: The team in the blue pajamas 3, the team in the teal pajamas 2.”
• Headline from the Canadian parody website The Beaverton: ““Who gives a (blank) about the CFL?” asks man who recently started watching professional Pickleball”
• Another one from The Beaverton: “Leafs fan only wants most talented player in franchise
history to re-sign if it’s at a discount”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “Stephen Curry shot a hole-in-one at a celebrity golf tournament in Lake Tahoe. Maybe this will be the key in fnally turning things around for poor Steph Curry.”
• Columnist Rick Rielly on Donald Trump after the former president shanked a wedge in a golf clip that went viral: “He chips like Edward Scissorhands. If he's a 3 (handicap), Chris Christie is a high jumper.”
• Columnist Sam Farmer of the San Francisco Chronicle, prior to the men’s fnal at Wimbledon: “ If Djokovic wins, how many versions of ‘Escape from Alcaraz’ are we going to see?”
• Vancouver funny guy Torben Rolfsen: “Sportsnet intro-ing the Blue Jays fans’ annual takeover of Seattle with ‘Lunatic Fringe’ by Red Rider.”
• Jack Finarelli of the sportscurmudgon.com, on a great Casey Stengel quote: “Casey Stengel knows a few things about winning and losing in MLB. “Good pitching will always stop good hitting and vice-versa.”
• RJ Currie again: “According to 3downnation. com, the Edmonton Elks continue to monitor the air quality at Commonwealth Stadium. This may be due to: a) Smoke from Alberta's unusually high number of wildfres; b) How badly the home team stinks.
• Headline at the onion.com: “Lionel Messi Admits He Didn’t Even Know Where America Was Before Signing To Play There”
• fark.com headline: “Mets name ofcial distillery, having already given their fans many reasons to drink”
• Another one from fark.com: “Coming soon to a grocery store near you in Bufalo . . . NY Jets toilet paper”
• An observation from Sunmedia’s Steve Simmons, on his new ‘favourite player’ in the Canadian Football League: “Carthell FlowersLloyd, the special teamer with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. His initials: CFL”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@ yahoo.ca
Wildcats host U13 Provincials
The U13 Hanna Wildcats played hosts to the 2023 A Tier 1 Provincial Championships over the July 21-23 weekend.
Six teams converged at the Hanna Triplex in search of provincial glory - Hanna Wildcats, SWEMBA White Sox, Mannville Mammoths, Sherwood Park Athletics, Athabasca Trappers and the Thorsby Bandits.
When the dust on the diamond settled, it was the Thorsby Bandits that walked away with the provincial crown. The fnal was a nail-biter
against the Mannville Mammoths, with a 13-12 fnal score.
The Wildcats lost an opening game heartbreaker 17-16 to the White Sox on Saturday morning. They played Mannville on Saturday afternoon, but were outmatched 217. This put them into the consolation fnal on Sunday morning, where they dropped a close 8-6 decision to the Athabasca Trappers.
Congratulations to all the teams, especially our local Wildcats who battled it out on the feld, providing great entertainment along the way.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KATE WINQUIST
National Watermelon Queen stops in Hanna
It was a summer celebration like no other at Fresno Bros. On Saturday, July 22. An afternoon was flled with fun and excitement for everyone. The National Watermelon Queen, Olivia Johnson joined the festivities, not just to cheer on the contestants of the Watermelon Eating Contest, but also to provide some knowledge on everything watermelon!
“As the National Watermelon Queen, I’m the promotional ambassador for the National Watermelon Association, so in shorter terms, I represent an entire U.S. industry,” Olivia explained to The Sentinel in an interview.
“Each state that grows watermelons has an association which is made up of growers, seed
companies, just every aspect of the industry. I’m a six-generation farmer’s daughter. We’re not huge. We don’t wholesale, we just grow locally in my hometown (in Texas). I’ve been in the watermelon industry my entire life. We used to have a watermelon festival in my hometown where they would do the biggest watermelon. I won that 8 years in a row. The biggest I grew was 215 lbs!”
Olivia says that she’s not much of a pageant girl, but she loves to travel to help promote the industry. Whether it is store promotions like the one in Hanna, school visits or farm tours, you can bet that if it has anything to do with watermelon, Olivia will be there.
Cyclists arrive in Oyen
BY JOAN JANZEN
Four cyclists began their journey from Calgary and arrived at Oyen on the evening of Wednesday, July 26th. John, Rick and Dan hail from Ontario, and Jef is from Quebec. The foursome’s challenge is to cycle across the prairies from Calgary to Winnipeg.
Their journey began on July 24th, and their plan is to arrive in Winnipeg on August 5th, and it looks like they will be right on target. Their visit to Oyen included supper at Baker’s Dozen and setting up tents at the campgrounds. After cycling more than 100 km, the four men enjoyed a relaxing game of golf at Oyen’s golf course.
You may wonder why four Canadians (two are retired, two are still working) are cycling across the prairies for two weeks. Dan, a member of the group, said the frst time he mentioned biking across the prairies, many people at home in the east said he was a fool.
“But when you’re riding, you have a lot of time to appreciate the landscape,” Dan explained. “There’s nothing like it! It’s like you’re part of the landscape. Whether it’s the mountains or the prairies, it’s part of our country. These past few days, we’ve all had moments when we said - Look at that!”
Dan is a 20-year cancer survivor. “I never rode a bike until after I got cancer. I’ve done it for 15 years in a row now,” he said, adding that his wife is also a cancer survivor.
Throughout those years, he has participated in numerous rides raising funds for cancer research. “John (a member of the group) and I raised close to $8,000 on our fundraising rides,” Dan said.
However, the group isn’t biking for a cause on this trip. “We’re doing it because we’re proud Canadians, and this is a fantastic way to see the country,” he said. They’re also doing it because they are men who enjoy a challenge. And what could be more challenging than cycling across the prairies in the wind and heat?
“On hot days, we just drink a lot of extra water. We had some days where it was 42 degrees,” Dan said. And as far as the typical prairie winds are concerned, he said, “It’s like life. When it’s behind you, it’s good. When it’s facing you, it’s not so much fun.” Even the prairie wind ofers a valuable life lesson.
Along the way, Dan acknowledged the graciousness of Canadians. “I’ve read about it, but it’s another thing to actually experience it. People are so gracious and kind; it’s been consistent from day one. We see it, especially on the road with trafc; the trucks all go around you,” he said.
The well-organized group schedules one cyclist to take a turn driving their rented Uhaul while the other three pedal between 100 to 150 km each day. Although the driver may be relaxing behind the wheel, he’s also in charge of making lunches, grocery shopping, arranging campsites and keeping his teammates hydrated. Maintaining a nutritious diet is crucial for the cyclists. Meanwhile, the cyclists keep each other entertained by telling jokes and singing.
Even when the group feels a bit tired, it’s obvious they’re enjoying the ride. “I don’t even mind the hard hills. It’s the challenge I enjoy,” Dan commented. “If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.”
The Hanna Rod & Gun Club hosted their Gun & Sportsman Show & Sale on Saturday and Sunday, July 15 and 16 at the Hanna Curling Rink. Exhibitors came from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario.
These four cyclists (three from Ontario and one from Quebec) spent an evening at Kindersley on their way from Calgary to Winnipeg.
Posting Date July 24, 2023
1. THEATER: Which group composed the rock opera “Tommy”?
2. GEOGRAPHY: In which country is Mount Everest located?
3. LITERATURE: Which novel contains the line, “Big Brother is watching you”?
4. HISTORY: Who was the second president of the United States?
5. WEATHER: What is a cloud shaped like a flying saucer called?
6. TELEVISION: Which TV comedy features a character named Opie Taylor?
7. MOVIES: What is the name of Argus Filch’s cat in the “Harry Potter” series?
8. MATH: What is the only even prime number?
9. MEDICAL: What is the common name for the ailment called dysphonia?
1. The Who. 2. Nepal. 3. “1984” by George Orwell. 4. John Adams. 5. A lenticular
cloud.6. “The Andy Griffith Show.” 7. Mrs. Norris.8. Two.9. Hoarseness.10. Four (egg, larva, pupa and adult).
South Alberta Hockey Academy pivots hiring efforts
BY JORDAN PARKER
The South Alberta Hockey Academy has been searching for a coach for the upcoming year, but they have now changed the scope of their eforts.
South Central High School Principal Jason Desrocher in Oyen – with help from the Prairie Rose School Division – is now looking for someone to help with capacity.
"We are looking at what may be less service than last year, but the town has made the ice free for us to use, which has been a great help. We are looking at lowering the fees," said Desrocher, who credited the Town of Oyen with the tremendous amount of assistance he's received.
isn't good, or that doesn't suit the needs of students. We have been working hard and will have something more concrete in August."
The Director of Communications for the Prairie Rose School Division reached out to The Echo with further information about the program and current hiring needs following a media request.
"We brought a company from Medicine Hat and did a recruiting video to sell people on the town and our schools. We are trying all kinds of things."
The school division says they are confdent they will have an academy for the school year. It has changed the scope of what they're seeking, and they hope to keep some structure and a high level of skill in the personnel.
"We are hoping to bring someone in, but go in a diferent direction. We are currently looking community-wide for someone to supplement and help out," said Mark Heinrichs, Chief Deputy Superintendent at the division.
"We don't want to put a program out there that
"Based on the challenge with recruiting teachers to the Oyen area, we have now taken a diferent approach for hiring someone to support the hockey academy... We are now looking for someone within the Oyen area to help with drills, skating and other skill and ftness development for the academy," wrote Angela Baron.
"As the academy does not have teams or compete competitively as part of the school program, there is no actual 'coach' required for the position. We are still actively recruiting a high school physical education teacher who will help support the curricular outcomes and physical ftness that is part of the academy program."
The academy program is optional for students, and Baron says the extent the new Phys-Ed teacher will be connected to the hockey program will depend on experience.
"Our plan is to hire someone local with hockey skills and experience to assist with the academy program at this time so we are able to continue to offer the option program to our students," she wrote.
New exhibits at Crossroads Museum
Hello everyone! We are excited to announce the unveiling of three new exhibits at the Oyen Crossroads Museum! The frst, our “Laundry Day” exhibit, is a look at the evolution and variety of the past century’s washing machines, tubs, and washboards. From the simple bath and plunger to the electrical washing machine, there is a diverse array of artifacts that will catch your eye, such as a two-in-one washing machine and butter churn! The second is our typewriter exhibit, which showcases the many diferent models produced and used throughout the community. We are privileged to include Rose Jardine’s very own typewriter, allowing us to share her story and contributions to the town and area that have had such a longstanding, positive impact on its many residents. Lastly, our third new exhibit is called “Phones Throughout the Ages,” which has on display how phones have evolved over time. We are still looking to expand this particular exhibit so if you have any old phones that you would like to see preserved please feel free to donate!
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
The 6th Annual edition of the Hardgrass Bronc Match took place in Pollockville on Saturday, July 29. The event gets bigger and better each year as it brings in 30 world class bronc riders from across North America to ride the best bucking stock that there is to ofer.
The event is put on by the Berry Creek Agricultural Society (BCAS), which was founded in 2006. They have hosted countless community events, but the Hardgrass Bronc Match is the most notable.
“What an incredible testament to community to go from a town of 12 people normally to 4000 today. That is truly what rodeo is about. It brings people together. This is a world-class event. I can’t believe what you’ve been able to build in six short years,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who spoke before the event.
After the long go, the feld was narrowed down to the top 8 competitors to participate in the short go for the big prize money.
Ben Anderson was 89.5 points in round number one and was the frst man to get the opportunity to pick out of a set of horses, and he would pick
the world champion - the same horse on which they hold the world record - Xplosive Skies. The pick would pay of for Anderson as he scored 94 pts for a two-score total of 183.5 to take home the $50,000 paycheque.
“This guy is as calm and as cool as they come. He knows what it takes to be a champion,” said former Roy Hay, 8-time Canadian Champion.
The top 8 performers were as follows:
1 Ben Anderson - 183.5 pts (Xplosive Skies)
2 Dawson Dahm - 178.00 (Dandy Delight)
3 Ross Grifn - 176.50 (Business Girl)
4 Layton Green - 175.00 (Tokyo Bubbles) Kole Ashbacher - 175.00 (Agent Lynx)
6 Lucas Macza - 174.50 (Yipee Kibitz)
7 Kolby Wanchuk - 87 (Wild Cherry)
8 Cort Scheer - 86.50 (Yesterday’s Delivery)
The weekend included access to both the Ranch Rodeo and Bronc Match, but it also included free camping and admission to the tradeshow and Prairie Oyster Cookof. Hanna’s Garrett Gregory provided the entertainment both nights. The 2023 edition of the Hardgrass Bronc Match was the largest and best performance yet!
Viva Vitality: Create a Family Media Plan
BY AMANDA POLL
How much time do you and your family spend online or in front of screens/monitors? It is probably more than you realize!
This is where a Family Media Plan can be very helpful. By creating a Family Media Plan, you can be aware of when and how you, and your family, are using media and technology. It is important to recognize that applying screen time limits will be more impactful if it applies to all members of the family, including the adults. You can revise your plan as often as you need to, such as at the beginning of each school year or during summer and holiday breaks.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when creating your Family Media Plan:
• Put in place a "media curfew" at mealtime and bedtime, putting all devices away or plugging them into a charging station (outside of the bedroom) for the night.
• Limit entertainment screen time to less than two hours per day. Excessive media use has been associated with obesity, lack of sleep, school problems, aggression, and other behavior issues.
• For children under 2 years-old, substitute unstructured play and human interaction for screen time.
• Take an active role in your children's media education by viewing programs with them and discussing what you watched and how it does or doesn’t match your family values.
• Be frm about not viewing content that is not age appropriate: sex, drugs, violence, etc. Take the time to look at movie, TV, and video game ratings. Looking up online reviews also can help parents to stick to their rules.
• Keep the computer in a public part of your home, so you can check on what your kids are doing online and how much time they are spending there.
• Talk about being good ‘digital citizens’. Discuss with your children that every place they go on the Internet may be ‘remembered’ and comments they make will stay there indefnitely. Impress upon them that they are leaving behind a ‘digital footprint.’ They should not take actions online that they would not want to be on the record for a very long time. From TV to smartphones to social media, our lives are dominated by 24/7 media exposure. Despite this, many children and teens have few rules around their media use. When used appropriately, media can enhance daily life. When used inappropriately or without thought, media can displace many important activities such as faceto-face interaction, family-time, outdoor-play, exercise, unplugged downtime, and sleep. Children and youth need caring adults to help them balance their online and of-line lives.
The Digital Wellness Coalition works to share information about digital wellness and literacy - check out their website at https://digitalwellnesscoalition. weebly.com and follow Digital Wellness Coalition on Facebook and Instagram for access to resources and information that will help your family maintain digital wellness! Media is everywhere and managing it all can be tough. Creating a Family Media Plan can help you and your family maintain your physical, mental, and digital wellness.
Amanda Poll is a Health Promotion Facilitator with Alberta Health Services specializing in Young Family Wellness.
PHOTOS & STORY BY KATE WINQUIST
Ben Anderson scored 94 points on his fnal ride. Playing under the bleachers.
Dancing the night away in Pollockville.
Classifieds
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Currently we have a management/sales opportunity at our Drumheller location. The candidate who fills this position would be responsible for all of aspects of the retail sales of that office as well as the efficient and profitable operations of that location.
Primary duties include sales and service of seed, fertilizer, and crop protection products as well as managing custom application. This individual would also be responsible for leading a small team of employees and managing plant operations.
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FEED AND SEED
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SERVICES
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. frstandsecondmortgages. ca
to join our team in Macklin/Chauvin Area Class 1A 3A 5A Rod Trucks, Flushbys. Vac trucks, Batch Trucks Experience an asset. Oilfeld Tickets required. Please email resume and abstract to: dshapka@steelview.ca Call/Text 780-753-0711
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT.
Serving Oyen and area, Acadia Valley, the Special Areas, all communities within, and West-Central Saskatchewan.
It is never too early to discuss your final wishes and make plans for the future. Let us help you– contact Kim or Pam to begin the conversation today. Professional service with compassion, pride and dignity. www.ofsmacleans.com | 114-1 Ave East, Oyen, AB | 403-664-3767
Pharmacy
DRUMHELLER
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.
ALSASK
SUNDAY, AUGUST 6
• Come for a CFS Alsask tour - Heritage Day Weekend! Tours at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. Alsask radar dome tour, located in Alsask SK., presents an informative experience!
Please pre-register by email: info@civildefence. ca. Entry will be a donation of your choice. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour and wear closed toe shoes.
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 spectators! Rodeo action starts at 10:00 AM. On-site concession. Join us for the day and cheer on the local youth!
EMPRESS
SATURDAY, AUGUST 12
• Empress & District Historical Society “Pub Night.” Entertainment by Sleepless Hights.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9
• Empress & District Historical Society “Whistle Stop Supper” with Berk Jodoin.
HANNA
SATURDAY, AUGUST 5
• Ball Hockey Tournament
SATURDAY - MONDAY, AUGUST 5-7
• Drag Races
SUNDAY, AUGUST 6
• Bobby Grosse LIVE at Music in the Park
FRIDAY, AUGUST 11
• Fall Fair & Parade
SATURDAY, AUGUST 12
• Show and Shine
SUNDAY, AUGUST 13
• Dean Ray LIVE at Music in the Park
SUNDAY, AUGUST 20
• El Mule LIVE at Music in the Park
SATURDAY, AUGUST 26
• Cornhole Tournament
SUNDAY, AUGUST 27
• Eva Levesque LIVE at Music in the Park
• Final Public Swim
MONDAY, AUGUST 28
• Paws in the Pool
OYEN
SATURDAY, AUGUST 19
• Open Farm Day hosted by the Big Country Agricultural Society in the Crossroads Centre. Activities include: Free horse back riding, petting zoo, ice cream making, hands-on butter making. A variety of vendors. Other items of interest: Supper served from 5-7 featuring locally sourced meat, produce and fruits. $20 (12 and older). Kids free.
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 Town Council Chambers.
YOUNGSTOWN
* Youngstown’s Back In Time Museum & Antiques Open 10-6 PM Thursday-Monday until September Long Weekend.
Jenny Tullikopf Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner, BC HIS Maxine Williams-Herbert , Owner Registered Hearing Aid Practitioner,
