The Prairie Crocus Community Fund continues to impact our community
The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta witnessed the generosity of our community when giving mattered most in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. In total $1,241,644.98 was distributed in grants, designated funds, scholarships, and agency funds across Southeast Alberta in 2020.
“Last year, we saw a considerable increase in charitable needs in our community because of the pandemic, but we are grateful that the region served by Prairie Crocus Fund has received generous funding to support our organizations in addressing our community’s greatest needs. We have distributed grants to ten local charities and non-profit groups to help serve our most vulnerable populations. The Prairie Crocus Fund is able to support projects through local donations, and we hope that our com-
munity members will continue to see its value and support it to ensure its sustainability,” said Linda Bingeman, Prairie Crocus Community Fund Advisory Committee Chair
Out of the regional total, $69,569.04 was allocated to non-profit organizations within Special Areas 2,3 and the MD of Acadia.
Many grants were distributed to places such as the Oyen Legion Hall, Oyen and District Food Bank, Big County Adult Learning Centre, Hanna Food Bank, Hanna Municipal Library, Empress Friendship Center, and many other incredible local agencies.
Kim Stief, Prairie Crocus Community Fund Coordinator expressed her thanks.
“I would like to extend a huge thank you to our donors, volunteers, and community supporters for their willingness to help and invest in the current and future charitable
needs of our region. Their support has made a significant difference in 2020, and it will continue to do so for many years to come.”
The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta was able to distribute these amounts in grants because of the generosity of community donors who chose to give where they live.
“In 2003, Linda and I were given the responsibility of managing the Loretta and Joe Laycock Scholarship. I was happy when the Community Foundation of Southeast Alberta was able to invest our principal and get us a better return on investment than we received at the banks. With increased investment income we were able to award more funds each year to local students. There is a great potential to donate more to your local community in the long term through
The Prairie Crocus Community Fund is still at its infancy and its capacity to fund projects is a work in progress; CFSEA’s total endowment helps support all of southeast Alberta, ensuring that our local region is looked after. The goal is to build our Prairie Crocus Community Fund through donations so that in the near future, it will be a local source of funding exclusive for projects in the Special Areas and MD of Acadia.
To learn about how you can make an impact in your community and give where you live, visit cfsea.ca.
CFSEA and the Prairie Crocus Community Fund. Your principal grows each year and investment income comes back to the local community to help local initiatives today, tomorrow, forever.” -Melvin Bingeman, Donor
East central Alberta has been in a deep freeze for the past week. This beautiful sun dog was captured over Oyen last Thursday. | PHOTO BY TRACY HUDSON
Just a gal from Glidden ...
All you need is ... Loverna
Idon’t know about you, but I’m getting tired of the deep freeze. We’ve been in this cold snap for well over a week now, and I am so ready for spring!
For the most part, I am pretty tolerant of the weather. I was so happy that the sun was shining last Sunday that I said to Robert that I was itching to get out and take some photos. I told him that I needed to go to Hoosier to get a picture of the United Church for one of our stories this week. “It’s only about a 45-minute drive,” I said, hinting that he should come along for company. “We’ve got each other to keep warm
if we get stranded,” I assured him, giving him a wink.
Robert just rolled his eyes and proceeded to start the truck. “We should go for breakfast first,” he said, much to my amazement. We don’t eat out a whole bunch, especially since COVID, and to go somewhere without the kids was even more special. We went to Humpty’s in Kindersley, and each ordered the Eggs Benedict. Robert ordered a side of bangers and graciously offered to share. The restaurant decorations were Valentine’s themed. Above our booth was a heart with “I love you” on it. Who says romance is dead? We were all set for our road trip to
Hoosier. The cell phone was charged, we had a tank full of gas, and we headed west down the number 7 highway.
It was -36°C when we left town, not including the wind chill. We decided the best route to take would be north of Marengo on the 317. I had never been to Hoosier before.
The Canadian Pacific Railway played a significant role in the town’s economy when it was completed in 1913, in the early years of Hoosier’s history. The branch line closed in 1981, the tracks from Dodsland to Hoosier were pulled, and the last of the community’s grain elevators was demolished, causing Hoosier’s population to de-
cline.
I took a few pictures of the church, the old school, the Co-op Store and two cats that posed for me at the Hoosier Lunch & Munch (which is also the Post Office).
As we were leaving, I mentioned to Robert that Loverna wasn’t too far away, and it would be a shame if we didn’t check it out. After all, I never found it on my trip last fall when I ended up driving through Cactus Lake, Fusilier and Major.
“There’s nothing in Loverna,” he said.
I mentioned to him that there must be something to see. After all, I do have five subscribers from there!
alongside of the road. I spotted a snowy owl on a fence post, but unfortunately, it flew away before I could get a photo.
Loverna is now considered a ghost town, but in the early 1920s, it was a bustling community, reaching 500 citizens.
Loverna boasted a hotel, two Chinese restaurants, two doctors, four lumberyards, two barbershops, three implement businesses, four garages, two banks, a feed mill, two grain elevators, four grain companies, a hardware store, two poolrooms, three grocery stores, two real estate offices, three livery stables, a newspaper, and even a small five-bed hospital.*
The community has signs erected to show where businesses used to stand.
Following droughts and the Depression years, Loverna’s citizens began to leave for larger and more accessible Saskatchewan and Alberta locations. A devastating fire in the early 1960s destroyed the three-story Vernon Hotel, which was the community’s main social establishment. In 1996, another fire swept through the community’s west side. It took out many of the old buildings and houses.
There was plenty to see on a cold, cold Sunday afternoon in February. I couldn’t wait to get back home to do a bit of research on what I experienced that day.
We never met a soul on our entire trip. We did stumble upon a herd of Antelope that were busy feeding on a grain bag
All I needed to warm my heart was Loverna and my best friend along for the ride.
* Source: Saskatchewan Ghost Towns KATE
Loverna’s train station from the pioneer glory days. It has long disappeared. SOURCE: LOVERNA HISTORY BOOK COMMITTEE
The former Hemmings, Isaac Wright Confectionary and V.L. Volk Store at Loverna.
| PHOTOS BY KATE WINQUIST
Hoosier’s “Cool Cats”
The empty streets of Loverna. It was once a thriving town of 500 citizens back in the 1920s.
Hoosier United Church set to lose its Municipal Heritage Designation
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Along-standing
structure in the Hoosier area has witnessed much activity throughout the past decades. The Hoosier United Church, although no longer in use, was a municipal designated historic building, up until the present time.
Located in the Rural Municipality of Antelope Park, Sask., the R.M. of Antelope Park intends to repeal the building’s Heritage Property designation. According to Robin Busby, Administrator of the R.M. Of Antelope Park, the decision came following a request from George Thurlow, of the Living Skies Regional Council, requesting the municipality remove the Municipal Heritage Designation.
Thurlow explained that the United Church has done some restructuring so that the seven Presbyteries and Saskatchewan Conference has been replaced by the Living Skies Regional Council. Therefore all property matters have been assigned to a six-person volunteer commission, of which Thurlow is the cemetery conveyor. This position has been expanded to include derelict buildings and vacant lots.
Thurlow offered reasons as to why the church is no longer a designated historic building. “We have a policy not to recommend our buildings be declared heritage properties, as a manner
of general practice, for several reasons. We’re in the business of looking after people, and heritage property takes our focus away from that. It also ties up our property, so it’s not easy to use for ongoing purposes,” he said, noting heritage property can’t easily have elevators installed or comfortable seating added.
“The grants available are counterproductive because the standards and prices of things go up when it concerns heritage properties,’ Thurlow further explained.
The church was built in 1916, with the construction period extending from Jan. 1, 1916, to Dec. 31, 1916, with Jim Cameron as the carpenter’s foreman on the project. The structure’s Gothic Revival characteristics are evident in the building’s proportions, massing, tower and windows.
After completion, the wooden structure was used for church services and as a community centre from 1916 until 1966. During this time, the building witnessed numerous weddings, funerals and christenings throughout the years, as well as club meetings, concerts and community suppers.
Many communities shrank to the point where there weren’t enough people to support this church. Consequently, it was repurposed solely as a community centre. This facility’s use continued until the 1990s; however, now Robin Busby noted that the church is in a di-
SPECIAL AREA NO. 3
NOTICE OF DECISION OF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
This is to notify you with respect to a decision of the Development Officer, whereby a development permit has been issued authorizing the following:
lapidated state.
Thurlow thought the Hoosier church may have received its designation as a heritage site after the congregation was disbanded, but he isn’t certain of the exact time period that occurred.
“We are seriously afraid of people getting hurt inside the empty building or the building being vandalized and starting a fire which could cause damage. It could be a liability,” Thurlow said. “We hate to be hard-hearted, but we do not want anyone injured.”
Thurlow explained that pulling a heritage designation is a two-stage process. The process was started in January, after which Living Skies Regional Council needs to advertise and give everyone 30 days notice to object or comment.
“Once the designation goes through, we will put it up for sale,” Thurlow said. “We would prefer to sell it where it is with the land but would sell it to be moved or torn down to use the lumber. We thought it would be easier to sell without the designation.”
SA3-01021NE
The Special Areas Land Use Order provides that any person claiming to be affected by a decision of the Municipal Planning Commission may appeal to the Development Appeal Board by serving written notice of appeal to the Secretary within 21 days.
Darran Dick Development Officer Special Area No. 3, Oyen
Agency of
PARKS, RECREATION & GENERAL LABOUR
The Town of Oyen is currently accepting applications for employment for the 2021 summer season. General duties will include but are not limited to mowing grass, ball-park maintenance, painting, watering trees and weed whipping. Other duties may be assigned by the Recreation Director and Public Works Foreman that include planning and managing community project initiatives.
The Town of Oyen is committed to providing students with the opportunity to gain relevant experience in a broad scope of work.
Offering Competitive Wages
Please forward resumes including qualifications to: E-MAIL: townoffice@townofoyen.com
FAX: 403-664-3712
MAIL: PO Box 360, Oyen, Alberta T0J 2J0
PLEASE NOTE: These positions are summer employment opportunities. Applicants MUST BE WILLING to work evenings, weekends and statutory holidays.
Deadline for applications: March 23, 2021.
The Special Areas Board has drafted a Municipal Development Plan and is requesting feedback from the public. The draft document is available for viewing online at www.specialareas.ab.ca and at Special Areas District Offices during normal business hours.
This document is the broad, long-range planning tool used by the Special Areas Board to guide future land use and development, growth patterns, transportation systems and municipal services. It is a statutory plan that requires public consultation. There are no changes to the Special Area 2, 3 & 4 Land Use Order.
A VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 BEGINNING AT 1:00 PM.
To register to attend this virtual public hearing, contact Morgan Fullerton (Property Administration) at morgan.fullerton@specialareas.ab.ca or call (403) 854-5614 by 4:30 pm on Friday, February 19, 2021. Registration is required to attend.
Written email submissions will be accepted to public.input@specialareas.ab.ca until February 19, 2021. Written comments will be presented publicly to the Board at the above hearing date.
An Agency of the Government of
The Hoosier United Church sits in a dilapitated state. In the background is the Hoosier School which was built in 1930 and closed in 1966. | PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Why are we not allowed to discuss things in public?
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Ahusbandand wife appeared before a judge during divorce proceedings. The judge asked, “You have three kids; how will you divide them?”
The couple stepped aside to have a long private discussion and then said, “OK, Sir. We will come next year with one more.”
Stephen LeDrew is a Toronto-based lawyer and broadcaster, who asks the question, “What is happening in our society when we cannot have a discussion about what’s going
on as an affront to our liberties as a result of Covid; when we can’t even discuss ideas?”
LeDrew served as President of the Liberal Party of Canada from 1998 to 2003. Now he’s asking some serious questions in regular broadcasts.
He goes on to say, “That’s what we’re all about. That’s why we’re such a successful society. To say we can’t be critical about Covid remedies is ridiculous. It may be the end of our society.”
LeDrew offered a solution, “We need to fight back against the reactionary idea that we
should just be a bunch of lemmings. Otherwise we’re going to be run by the elites and we’ll have no idea what’s going on.
AMaybe in Canada that’s already happening.” His words resonate with many Canadians.
As an example of censorship, LeDrew spoke of an interview he conducted with Ontario MPP Randy Hillier in November, 2020 regarding lock downs. YouTube took it down.
LeDrew was told it was in violation of community standards, but he also noted this is the same YouTube that consistently allows pornographic and racist videos. “We are not being allowed to discuss things in public,” LeDrew concluded.
LeDrew repeatedly jokes that he doesn’t always dress like Don Cherry; sometimes Don Cherry dresses like him. However if you don’t allow yourself to be distracted by his insanely bushy eyebrows, accented by large framed colourful glasses, you will be pleasantly surprised by his informative broadcasts.
Jasmine Moulton of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation was one of his guests. She said, “We’re printing a lot of money right now. Canada has the largest deficit as a result of Covid in the world, at about 19 percent of GDP. In proportion to the GDP and how we can pay this money back, Canada is in the worst spot in the world. A lot of this is being financed by bonds that will eventually come due. That means one day we’ll have to pay it back through taxes or inflation. Trudeau has been spending on a lot of pet projects under the guise of Covid
19 spending. One example would be the electric vehicle subsidy. There’s no reason why Covid 19 necessitates giving hundreds of millions of dollars to make electric vehicles right now.”
Another of LeDrew’s guests was Addison Cameron-Huff, a lawyer. He said, “I don’t think anyone could fairly say they know how the Covid money was spent. Less than 25% spent has gone to individuals. The problem people should be concerned about is spending money without a plan, and spending money when people don’t know where it went.”
LeDrew dedicated a few broadcasts to the resignation of the Governor General, who was not fired but instead was allowed to resign with her full pension available. LeDrew thought the previous Governor General was a better example, as he was hard working, engaged and humble.
LeDrew observed, “It’s not an easy job, but when it’s done well it’s a terrific job. Canada invests a lot of money into it. The Prime Minister made a bad decision when he hired her. Should the next Governor General be Don Cherry?” LeDrew asked. The opinionated hockey commentator might be up to the challenge, since he’s already been fired once, from a position he successfully held for 37 years. He certainly wasn’t afraid of having a discussion, and discussion is desperately needed in Canada.
Saving wetlands is a resolution Canada must keep
mid all the heartening and hope-filled ways Canadians have resolved to make 2021 a year of positive change, one in particular holds water: the commitment to saving our wetlands.
Leading up to 2021, the Government of Canada promised to make significant investments in our environment—and in the wetlands that underpin its health. Today, this commitment must be among our greatest convictions. Our ability to address the colliding crises of biodiversity loss and climate change depend on it. So does our economic recovery.
Upholding our responsibility to conserve and restore wetlands brings us measurably closer to finding solutions to some of the country’s greatest threats. As floods and fires rage more frequently, as sea levels rise and populations of at-risk species continue to plummet, we’ve reached a point where addressing these challenges individually won’t work. Wetlands, by their nature, can help us tackle them simultaneously. These amazing ecosystems hold and slow the flow of water, sequester carbon and support biodiversity. The challenge ahead of us—all of us—is to value wetlands enough that we keep our promise to protect them so that they may do their job.
The case for saving Canada’s wetlands becomes even more compelling when you consider the economics. Investing in these highly productive ecosystems generates real financial returns. Research that exam-
ined Ducks Unlimited Canada’s conservation and restoration efforts revealed that for every dollar invested in wetlands and natural habitats, society receives $22 in economic benefits. This includes nature-based recreation, tourism, and employment. It’s a sound return on investment.
This past September, Canada joined more than 30 countries from around the world in the “High Ambition Coalition” that pledged to protect 30 per cent of their lands and oceans by 2030. Prime Minister Trudeau said key to Canada’s efforts will be “moving forward on protecting our wetlands.” It was a welcome acknowledgement for conservation organizations like ours.
February 2nd is World Wetlands Day. It’s a celebration marking the 1971 adoption of the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. The treaty was signed by global leaders who acknowledged the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet—and who committed to their conservation and sustainable use. Fifty years later, there’s never been a more critical time to heed their creed.
I believe we’re uniquely positioned to seize this opportunity. Because over the past year, Canadians have found new appreciation for wetlands and our natural world. When the hustle and bustle of human activity slowed, we felt the Earth breathe. We saw marshes, ponds and forests flourish in the space made by a dif-
ferent pace. We experienced, in profound and personal ways, nature’s role in our well-being.
So, in 2021, saving wetlands is a resolution Canada must keep. Let’s find resolve in the science that demonstrates the positive impact they have on fighting climate change and bolstering biodiversity. Let’s lean on their economic value to build up our communities. And let’s find strength in the solution that’s sitting right in our own backyard. Wetlands, coupled with strong environmental stewardship led by all Canadians, are an outstretched hand that will help us all back to our feet.
Karla Guyn, PhD, is chief executive officer for Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) which has some 6.5 million acres of wetlands and associated natural habitat under its care. Dr. Guyn, was raised in Calgary, Alberta and credits her love for the outdoors to the time spent in southern Alberta. Karla obtained a technical diploma in wildlife from Lethbridge College, a B.Sc. in wildlife biology from the University of Montana, and her M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan. Karla is one of Canada’s leading conservation scientists and has travelled across North America to support wetland and waterfowl conservation. As CEO for DUC, she leads more than 350 staff across the country to deliver on-the-ground habitat conservation, scientific research, education and public policy efforts.
Could Enbridge Line 5 trouble restart Energy East discussions?
BRIAN ZINCHUK Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SASKATOON, CALGARY – The Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC) held a virtual town hall with the on Feb. 9 with Saskatchewan Minister of Energy and Resources Bronwyn Eyre, speaking about items like how Enbridge’ Line 5 trouble with Michigan could restart discussion on an Energy East-type project, and recent energy developments in Saskatchewan. CAODC CEO Mark Scholz spoke from Calgary with Eyre, in Saskatoon, in an online format.
Eyre said, “We all know we need pipelines and last year, the lack of Western Canadian pipeline access to tidewater cost of Saskatchewan oil producers around $900 million; cost the government of Saskatchewan about $50 million in lost royalty tax revenue, and of course that’s hospitals and highways and social services and schools.”
She said the province has to continue to oppose federal policies that impose significant additional costs on the oil and gas sector, with marginal environmental benefits in many cases. An example she gave was the Clean Fuel Standard, which she said will have a major impact on the energy and resource, agriculture and manufacturing sectors. It will also impact regular Canadians, heating their homes and filling their cars.
“The Clean Fuel regulations will result in an estimated increase in gasoline costs of up to 11 cents per litre, and diesel costs of up to 13 cents per litre by 2030. That clearly hits where it hurts on transportation, certainly. In Saskatchewan, based on current consumption volumes, that impact equates to roughly $710 million on Saskatchewan residents by 2030, and they’re huge numbers: $400 million from diesel consumption, $310 million from gas consumption.”
Eyre said Saskatchewan is concerned about the “flawed data the federal government is relying on, and the utter lack of consultation taking place between provinces leading up to the gazetting before Christmas. “
On the court battle with the federal government re-
garding the carbon tax, Eyre said, “The federal carbon tax is another obvious, well-documented challenge facing our oil and gas sector and as you know, our government is committed to fighting it we’re anxiously awaiting the decision from the Supreme Court.”
Eyre spoke of how Saskatchewan is working its way through the periodic table. North American Helium is expected to complete its helium processing plant near Battle Creek, in the extreme southwest corner of the province. Prairie Lithium Corp. and LiEP Energy Ltd. are working together to produce lithium hydroxide from Saskatchewan oilfield brines. They have a two-stage pilot project underway, using produced water from a waterflood project.
Work continues on the Deep Earth Energy Production Corp. geothermal project near Torquay, using oil and gas workers and services.
Eyre provided an update on the Accelerated Site Closure Program, applying $400 million of federal funding toward the abandonment and reclamation of up to 8,000 inactive oil and gas wells and facilities.
“The program has engaged 98 licensees, 307 Saskatchewan-based service companies to date, and as of last month, the program had completed 724 well abandonments, 175 flowline abandonments, 39 facility decommissions and 1,434 site remediation and reclamation activities. So, that work goes on and certainly we’re urging companies to work with us, work with the Saskatchewan Research Council to finalize invoicing, so that we can get that money out the door and continue to flow the program.”
On the same day, the ministry announced two programs around Indigenous participation that was required as part of the federal program. Eyre said, “We’ve created a First Nations stewardship fund and an Indigenous credit pool, and ASCP, the federal abandonment program.
Freezing in the cold
Scholz touched on the cold snap gripping the prairies, saying, “If we don’t have energy to heat our homes, we’re in a lot of trouble.”
Eyre responded, “As I say, fossil fuels have to be our friends for a lot longer than maybe people realize. And on days such as this, when you actually have that sense of survival mode, you know, as the old weather advisory frostbite will occur within seconds. But really, you could freeze. It is true. It really brings home, what we can’t be glib about, and can’t take for granted. We understand that, you know, we’re in climates where it gets really cold.
She touched on Michigan’s plan to shut down flow of Enbridge’s Line 5, which takes Western Canadian oil and natural gas liquids through Michigan to supply Michigan, Ohio, southern Ontario and Quebec. Eyre said, “Look at the Enbridge Line 5 discussion, and what theoretically is at risk there, and in terms of energy flow. But what that means is that we’re actually cut off. I don’t know if that’s really settled in people, or if they’ve completely realized.
“You know, it’s the old turn off the taps thing, right? I mean, when you really think about what that would mean. And here we are seeing literal threats about that.”
Scholz said, “It would be an absolute crisis.”
He added, “If we don’t get this, right, if we don’t start thinking a little bit more critically and focused on Canada, and how we ensure we have energy, secure supply, you know, things could get carried away.”
Scholz wondered if the Line 5 issue could re-open the concept of an Energy East pipeline. Eyre said, “I think we were all very attuned to that all of a sudden. Whether Quebec is or not, I don’t know. I mean, they’re clearly alarmed. I would think about the risks to them. And there are certain ironies, I guess, to them, aren’t there? I mean, in light of what they said about Western Canadian energy, not very long ago, and their position on Energy East, that they’re so dependent on the infrastructure they have, where that goes, in terms of restarting that discussion.”
She said there’s certainly will within Saskatchewan and Alberta to get that discussion going.
Belles & Beaus A TRIBUTE TO COUPLES
12, 2020
will be married July 16, 2021 in Canmore, AB. They reside in Bonnyville, AB.
and
will be married August 7, 2021 in Calgary, AB.
REED DIDYCHUK and RACHEL BIGELOW
September
at Mathewson Falls, Fernie BC. They are residing in Innisfail, AB.
Jeff Berg & Nicole Pattullo
CARLEY THORNTON
JOSH FABA
Tanner Ross and Nirvana Hauck were married August 15, 2020 in Buffalo, AB. They currently live in Oyen, AB.
Acadia Valley NEWS
February 10, 2021
Reported by Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582
Balzac Billy wasn’t kidding about another 6 weeks of winter! This past week we’ve had windchills as high as -51, so far the schools have been closed all week. My kids aren’t complaining but I sure hope they can go back on Friday… Fingers crossed. Thank you to the power crews for working hard in the frigid temperatures to keep our power on. The majority of The M.D. was without power for around 3 hours on Wednesday afternoon. Unfortunately the K.C. Hall suffered some damage this week. There was a power surge that kicked out the furnace, by morning it was -5 in the building, some of the pipes burst in the outside walls. By the time you read this we should be looking at highs in the minus teens and that will feel downright balmy after last week!
My family and I took a mini vacation to Kindersley last weekend. The kids enjoyed the pool at the hotel and we all enjoyed a couple nice meals in a restaurant for a change.
Some of the covid restrictions have been lifted this week in Alberta. The A.V. Diner is open for dine in now. The kids are now able to get back to dance and Hockey practices as well. Hopefully they’ll be able to play a few games
and make it to dance festivals by the end of the season.
There seems to be a lot of buzz about the Yellowstone series on Prime Video… Did you know that Teren Turner (Todd & Joeleen Turner’s son) has a part in the last episode of the second season?!
The Rec. Club is still selling 50/50 tickets this month, the draw will take place at the meeting on March 1st. You can buy tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or through a Rec. Club member. The Ice to Dice committee has launched their online event for the week of March 1st-6th. There are lots of cool prizes and draws, you can even win a $4000 travel voucher! Watch their Facebook group for updates.
Congratulations to Josh Stolz and Presley Peacock on the birth of their Son Max Valentine Stolz born February 6th weighing 7lbs 2.8oz and 19 inches long. Sympathy to the family of Dorothy Champagne who passed away last Tuesday at the age of 89. A memorial will be held at a later date.
Thanks for reading this week. I will end with a quote from Maya Angelou “Try to be a rainbow in someone else’s cloud”
BOOK Notes
**The library is currently operating through curbside service only. Please contact the library to arrange pickup for any library materials and any of the packs/kits offered below.**
ADULT FICTION: The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult Clanlands: Whisky, Warfare, & a Scottish Adventure Like No Other by Sam Heughan
The Cul-De-Sac War by Melissa Ferguson Gobble, Gobble Murder by Leslie Meier Hopeless Romantic by Marina Adair
The Once & Future Witches by Alix Harrow Summerwater by Sara Moss
The Sentinel by Lee Child This Close to Okay by Leesa Cross-Smith Troubles in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand Under a Gilded Moon by Joy Jordan-Lake
JUVENILE FICTION: The Ice Chips & the Grizzly Escape by Roy MacGregor
NON-FICTION: Tiny Toys to Crochet by Sachiyo Ishii When Crisis Strikes: 5 Steps to Heal Your Brain, Body, & Life from Chronic Stress by Jennifer Love A Promised Land by Barack Obama
We have a number of kits/packs that are avail-
by Tricia Fischbuch
able to borrow. Check out our adult colouring kit, puzzles (currently 1 child and 1 adult), pre-school Story Time kits (books and a craft), Family Grab & Go Packs (books for various ages, activities, & craft), Book & Movie packs (book, movie, crossword/word search, and a pack of popcorn). Please specify ages and number of children when ordering so enough craft materials can be included.
COMING EVENTS: Monday February 15 Library Closed for Family Day Holiday Wednesday February 24; 6:30 – Online Book Club (1984 by George Orwell). Copies available at the library. Call/email to register.
“That is why fiction existed, as a way to look at the world without being broken by it.”
- Olen Steinhauer, The Middleman
403-664-3644 ext. 2727 aoymlibrary@marigold. ab.ca
Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7
Oyen News Briefs
Congratulations to Vishal and Nikita Patel of Oyen on the arrival of their second child, Shriya Vishal, born December 21, 2020, in Medicine Hat weighing 6 pounds 7 ounces — a sister for big brother Laksh.
Congratulations to Selena Smigelski and Brett Tainsh of Consort on the birth of their daughter Tainsley Darren Tainsh February 4, 2021, in Wainwright. Excited grandparents are Ramona and Darren Smigelski and great grandparents Willy and Rita Dick and Myrna Smigelski, all of Oyen, and Palmer Tainsh and Deanna Tainsh.
Speedy recovery wishes to Miles Logan of Oyen Lodge who spent a few days in hospital after a fall.
Frigid temperatures affect the schools
“School was closed Monday-Wednesday,” reports Jason Duchscherer, OPS principal. “A decision for Thursday and Friday will be made on the evening before or the morning of before 6:15 a.m. If we are -41° with windchill we will most likely be closed.”
“Assumption School is NEVER closed, doors are always open (on regular school days),” says Assumption RC School secretary Christie Caskey. “Prairie Rose buses were cancelled for Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday due to extreme cold temperatures. Assumption School has moved over to ONLINE learning Wednesday and have students also in the building learning today whose parents decided to drive them in. We will continue to monitor cold temperatures daily, but looking cold again tomorrow.”
“The Oyen & District Memorial Arena is still open,” responds Lee Tucker, Oyen’s Parks and Recreation Director. “As of February 8 we can have sports groups (schools, minor hockey, figure skating) on ice in groups of 10 including instructors. These groups have to follow protocols set out by the government. This is only for under 18 groups. No adult activities allowed. No public skating allowed as well,” he concludes in his email.
BY DIANA WALKER fwalker1@telus.net
New Business in Oyen Oyen & District Chamber of Commerce thrilled to have a new business open in Oyen. Midtown Inn offers 25 fully renovated rooms.
Join the Palliser Triangle Health Advisory Council!
• Are you passionate about healthcare and service delivery?
• Do you enjoy engaging your friends, neighbours and community in discussion?
• Do you have interest in improving health and wellness in your community?
We are recruiting volunteer members to the Palliser Triangle Health Advisory Council.
If you’re in the Bassano, Bow Island, Seven Persons, Cyprus County, Acadia Valley, Medicine Hat, Oyen, Irvine and County of 40 Mile, we’d like to hear from you!
Learn more about us online and apply today: Palliser Triangle Health Advisory Council
For more information: community.engagement@ahs.ca
Taken from front page
The Oyen Echo
December 15, 1975
Due to the flu epidemic among students within Oyen Public School where more than 30% of the school population reported absent from school on Tuesday,
December 9, and where others reported illness during classtime, Oyen Public School closed its doors until Monday, December 15, 1975.
This action was taken following consultation with representatives of the Acadia School Division No. 8, the Big Country Health Unit and a local medical physician.
Parents are requested to keep their children at home during this period so the virus is not spread. Children should be encouraged not to participate in group activities during this period in order to control the problem.
School will be closed for instructional purposes until Monday, unless otherwise advised. Should you have an questions or concerns, contact any teacher at Oyen Public School.
On behalf of the Acadia School Board, yours truly, School Board Trustee, C.T. Snell
Editor’s Note: the Assumption RC School and the kindergarten were also closed on Tuesday afternoon.
Reporter’s Note: Feb. 9, 2021—C.T. Snell’s obituary appeared in The Oyen Echo January 25, 2021.
NOTE: If you have club or personal news you would allow me to include in this column please email fwalker1@telus.net
Cereal Volunteer Fire Department takes Livestock Emergencies in Transport course
On this past, very chilly, weekend, the Cereal Volunteer Fire Department embarked on a long-postponed essential training course. This course, delivered through Lakeland College, entitled “Livestock Emergencies in Transport”, took place at the Crossroads Centre (Oyen) in a safe, socially distanced manner February 6th and 7th.
Over the weekend, the participants were able to experience the use of, and practice with, Cereal’s new Livestock Emergency Response trailer & its equipment. After having this specialized trailer & equipment for almost two years, it
was imperative to finally train the area volunteers on its use. And, what made this training even more important is that Hanna is the only other fire department in this part of Special Areas with this equipment.
The course trained the team on various techniques for effective removal of different types of livestock from a variety of livestock trailers involved in accidents.
Finally, the group practiced caring for scared and injured animals as well as ways to capture livestock, construct pens to hold them, and re-load livestock onto other vehicles at accident scenes.
Overall, the team found the training very useful and gained a better understanding of the equipment to use and the protocols to follow when dealing with accidents involving livestock. And, none of this would have been possible without the help of many. In particular, thanks so much to Terry Stachniak & Lakeland College for the training course, Bill Dalton Trucking & Kevin Herron for providing & hauling the cattle liner to the course, Rocky Miller for providing the cattle, and Big Country Ag Society for their generous donation to the Cereal Fire Dept.
1st Friday 6:30 p.m. Mass & Adoration at Sacred Heart Church.
Rest of the Fridays at the Extended Care unit 6:30 pm
Sunday Mass at 11:00 a.m. Cell 403-795-6912. shcoyen@telus.net
MISSIONARY
Not meeting in person at this time. Sunday Service can be viewed live on Facebook and later on YouTube.
ST. MARY’S RC, ACADIA VALLEY
Thursdays 10:00 a.m.
Sunday Mass 9:00 a.m. Rectory 403-664-3603. newtonrodrigues17@outlook.com
Cereal News
Reported by Maxine Girletz
February 16-22
403-664-0513
Happy birthday to Barrett Beaudoin, Earl Landis, Lisa Proudfoot, Marlene Arneson, Sydney Mutai, Brenda Carey, Gavin Pederson, Rebecca Carey, Jen Schorz, Kiptin Thornton, Ryker Bowles, Brendan Fryer, Shelby Petersen, Carla Kulyk, Drayden Seemann, Georgia Thornton, Jean Kimber, Kelby Stevens, Kerry Olsen, Vern Clarkson.
Secure funding for Alberta Agricultural Societies
Supporting rural volunteers and organizations throughout COVID-19
Agricultural Societies serve and support our rural communities and are a rich part of Alberta’s history. They provide services such as community centres, ball diamonds, rodeo grounds, curling rinks, skating rinks and so much more.
Each year they receive a provincial base grant and an additional operating grant for events at their facilities. As a result of COVID-19, most of these events did not happen, which is why Agriculture and Forestry changed the 2021-2022 funding formula and has expedited the grant process. Alberta’s government will still provide an additional operating grant by calculating the previous five-year average funding per organization.
Agricultural Societies will use a streamlined form to apply, resulting in significant savings of both time and resources. Grants will be processed this spring, starting in May, to get these much-needed funds out to dedicated volunteers across the province.
The 283 primary Agricultural Societies will each receive their $17,500 base grant, plus the new five-year average variable operating grant.
The 7 regional Agricultural Societies will each receive their $298,853 base grant, plus the new five-year average variable operating grant which is up to a maximum of $100,000.
As Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, I’m proud to recognize our hard working volunteers that make Agricultural Societies work. Your determination keeps Albertans connected to agriculture and promotes the true values of rural Alberta: hard work, determination and community.
SACRED HEART RC OYEN
OYEN EVANGELICAL
CHURCH
The Cereal Volunteer Fire Department particpated in a course delivered through Lakeland College at the Crossroads Centre in Oyen on February 6 amd 7.
Sports with Bruce Penton Sibbald News
By Lee Switzer
February 12/21
Hello everyone. HA HA the joke was on me. In my first column written a few weeks ago, I commented about the mild winter temperatures. Well, winter has returned with a roar and created some tough conditions. Ranching neighbours are outside fighting with frozen waters, feeding many bales with tractors that may “hesitate” to start and putting out lots of bedding. The end is in sight and things will improve!
Several younger families are delighted to be back in the arena practicing hockey and local dance studios have re-opened with some restrictions. Nice to see hairdressers and massage options open as well. Restaurants are spreading their indoor wings too. If you will allow me to indulge I would like to share some amazing news. Paige received her Masters in Counselling Psychology last April completing her Masters online before online became the normal. She then spent months with paperwork becoming a Provisional Psychologist by the fall of 2020. She is currently working in a private practice in Calgary and in a community practice four days a week (mainly utilizing computer platforms and telephone counselling). In October she decided to complete the final educational hurdle to study and write the Examination for the Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) to become a Registered Psychologist. After months of an extremely dedicated study program she wrote the EPPP exam on February 11. This exam was four hours long, all multiple choice; involving content knowledge, analysis and synthesis of many areas within psychology. A very complex and difficult exam (not to mention costly!). She passed the exam with flying colours and is now a Registered Psychologist in Alberta. Those credentials are the highest she can attain. We are so proud of Paige. Her hard work has been rewarded.
Belated happy Valentine’s Day to all! Keep on showing kindness and caring to others, these acts make a difference too so many. Take care.
Curling addicts finally getting their fix
After almost a full year without their drug of choice, thousands of Canadians will finally be able to get their fix, starting this weekend.
Live curling is back!
Like a heroin addict having his or her supply suddenly cut off, Canadian curling fans who might spend up to 12 hours a day in front of their television sets watching the world’s best curlers in action were forced to go without when COVID-19 swept the globe last spring. The competitive season was nicely under way, with Kerri Einarson of Gimli, Man., winning the Scotties, and Brad Gushue of St. John’s, NL taking the Brier. Next stop for both: The Worlds! Einarson and her rink, in fact, had already travelled to Prince George, B.C., for the 2020 world championships when the event was cancelled. Gushue and his mates got the word about their competition’s Glasgow, Scotland cancellation before they had to leave the east coast.
Since then, in the world of curling, almost nothing. No Grand Slam events, a handful of modified provincial playdowns, nothing on TV except reruns for former curling championships. It’s hard to get excited about Kevin Koe trying a double-angle raise takeout when it happened two years ago and you have already seen the shot, and memorized the rock splatter, four or five times.
March 5, the men will go at it at the 2021 Brier. Same site, same rules.
The addicts — primarily elderly Canadians, according to viewership data — will get their fix, as long as the ‘bubble’ works the way it’s intended. No infections, no interactions with people on the outside — a clean setting to allow the sport, and its fans, return to some sort of normalcy.
As for the Scotties and Brier winners? The women’s worlds, originally scheduled for Switzerland in late March, have been cancelled, while the Brier champ returns to the Markin McPhail Centre in April for the world championships.
Curling addicts everywhere are hoping for great ice, tight competition, good TV reception — and no infections.
search parties are still looking for Danny Willett after a missed fairway.”
• Toronto media guy Gord Stellick, on Twitter: “There is no truth to rumour that next COVID protocol step has NHL players to be dropped off by parents 30 minutes before game time with skates tied up and skate guards on.”
• Steve Simmons of Sunmedia: “The McGill hockey team turns 144 years old on Sunday. And no, Jaromir Jagr hasn’t been there since the beginning.”
• RJ Currie again: “COVID shutdowns forced Cirque de Soleil to declare bankruptcy. There haven’t been so many clowns not working this side of the Jacksonville Jaguars.”
• Headline at dark.com: “The drop kick remains in the NFL’s official rule book. Not sure about the PGA.”
• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “Sure sign you’re in a hardcore Steeler fan’s bathroom: Terrible Towels, Steel Shower Curtain and a toilet upgrade affectionately known as Super Bowl II.
• Bengals rookie QB Joe Burrow, via Twitter, on EA Sports College Football being resurrected after seven years: “All I ever wanted was to be on the cover of this game, and as soon as I graduate they bring it back.”
Calving Angus Hybrid Bulls for Heifers
Charlton Cattle Co. has more than 40 years’ experience raising only easy calving bulls for first calf heifers
• 49 red and black easy calving yearling bulls on test (65-85 pound BWs)
• Less than 1% assist rate in over 32,000 home-raised and commercial heifers
• Six month breeding soundness guarantee An easy calving, stress-free spring is just a phone call away! Contact Daryl at 780-806-1229 CharltonCattleCo@gmail.com www.CharltonCattleCo.ca
a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance. Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications. Farmer
But starting this Friday, 16 of the best women’s rinks in Canada will gather in a ‘bubble’ at the Markin McPhail Centre in Calgary and play for more than a week to determine a 2021 Scotties’ champ. TSN and veteran broadcaster Vic Rauter will be on hand to call all the shots, and for thousands of Canadian curling fans, it will be like a salve on a sore wound, a warm drink to ease a sore throat. It will be like a starving man given a big steak with fried mushrooms or a crying baby sucking on a bottle of warm milk.
Two weeks later, starting on
• Patti Dawn Swansson, aka the River City Renegade, on the person who took a post-fight swing at Mike Tyson while the former champ was signing autographs following his recent fight with Roy Jones Jr. : “No arrests have been made, but police are searching for a man who’s lost his mind.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Some words of advice to any San Antonio Spur contemplating divorce. Remember the alimony.”
• Joel Beall of golfdigest.com, on course conditions at the 2020 Memorial tournament: “Its greens (were) playing like trampolines with rough so tall and thick that
• Bob Molinaro of pilot online. com (Hampton, Va.) on the bright side of ex-Mariners ace Felix Hernandez — who just signed with the Orioles — opting out of the 2020 season: “With 500 days between starts, he should be well-rested.”
• Dwight Perry again: “This 135th edition of Groundhog Day at Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania broke with tradition last week when: a) it was done virtually because of COVID-19; b) Punxsutawney Phil emerged with an N95 mask on; c) they changed the prediction to six more years of bad Jets football.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
•
•
•
Classifieds The Oyen Echo
RATES (based on 25 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday noon. 306-463-2211
LAND FOR SALE
800 acres of deeded land, 320 acres of grazing lease located in Special Area #3 west of Oyen, AB. adjacent to Hiway 9. Contact Barry Lowe at Real Estate Centre, #2-218 McCrea Dr. Hanna, AB. T0J 1P0 ph. 403-8544456 or 403-854-1005 or barrylowe48@gmail.com.
COMING EVENTS
Oyen & District Chamber of Commerce AGM by Zoom. Thursday, February 18 @ 12 noon. Everyone welcome. Contact Lucille @ 403-6640172 for more info.
Bridal shower for Rebecca McIntyre, bride-elect of Blake Hertz, Saturday, March 6. Watch for more info.
Youngstown Communiqué
Reported by Robert Blagen 403-854-0664
How has everyone been surviving this cold snap. Even our school buses did not run the last few days due to the extreme cold. If you do have to be out in these conditions, please dress warmly and take proper precautions. It does not take long at all to get frostbite. A reminder as well that if you must travel, it would be wise to have extra provisions packed and in the car just in case, even though in this day and age with everyone having cell phones, help is usually available within a short amount of time. It doesn’t hurt to be prepared th ough.
I am happy to report that the Kindergarten online Fundraiser Auction seems to have been well supported and has been deemed a success with lucky bidders of the auction items busy picking up their goods.
Word has been received that Charles Stoll, son of Jim and Mary Stoll, passed away January 25th, 2021 in Brazil where he had been residing for the past several years. Some of you may remember visiting with him at the Centennial in 2013. He is survived by his siblings, Carol, Jim and Jane. He was buried in Brazil.
Now that the restaurants are able to open, albeit with restrictions, I hope everyone is able to get out and enjoy.
BLANKET ALBERTA
COMING EVENTS
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
FIREARMS WANTED FOR APRIL 24th, 2021 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION. Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer’s Auction: Toll-Free 1-800-694-2609; sales@ switzersauction.com or www.switzersauction.com.
FEED AND SEED
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.
Blanket classified ads are produced through a joint agreement by The Oyen Echo and the Alberta Weekly Newspaper Association (AWNA). They appear in all 90 AWNA members’ community newspapers for $269. ($299 for Employment Opportunity, also posted on AWNA Careers online) for the first 25 words, $8 for each word over 25 (+GST). To place a blanket classified call THE OYEN ECHO 306-463-2211.
CERTIFIED SEED. - WHEAT – Go Early, Pintail. - OATS –AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, SO1 Super Oat. - BARLEY – Amisk, Busby, Cerveza, Conlon, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea, Forage Peas. Polish Canola, Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.
HEATED CANOLA buying Green, Heated or Springthrashed Canola. Buying: oats, barley, wheat & peas for feed. Buying damaged or offgrade grain. “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain, 1-877-2505252.
LAND FOR SALE
DUCKS UNLIMITED CANADA has for sale 4 project lands in Beaver County. Land locations are: SW27-50-16-W4, SE 18-4914 W4M, S½ 3-46-11 W4M and NW 32-47-13 W4M. Call Brent Thygesen, b_thygesen@ducks.ca or 780 678-0150.
VERY INEXPENSIVE 2 QUARTERS OF PASTURE LAND, Central SK, for sale. 8 other good quarters may be available. Requires fencing. Great hunting $74,900. Call Doug at 306-716-2671.
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.
SERVICES
GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying
home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 X225. www. awna.com.
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/licensing loss? Travel/business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800347-2540. www.accesslegalmjf.com
GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own homeyou qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS PAPER
WEEK OF JANUARY 24 TO 30, 2021
ARIES
After a few celebrations, your house might feel like it’s been turned upside down, so you’ll quickly set about restoring order. A major cleaning is needed, and you’ll unclutter your mind in the process.
TAURUS
You won’t hesitate to speak your mind and voice your concerns when others won’t. You might also write a poem or express something that ends up being quoted around the world, much to your surprise.
GEMINI
You’ll be worried about a financial issue. It’s probably just a simple mistake though, such as a bill addressed to the wrong person. You’ll soon be smiling again, and your natural charisma will return.
CANCER
You’ll have a lot going on. Your loved ones will get you to participate in a few activities or at least succeed in getting you out of the house. You’ll be talked into signing up for a group course of some kind.
LEO
You’ll need a second cup of coffee to feel like yourself and do away with procrastination. Afterward, you’ll become incredibly effective at kickstarting new projects and achieving certain goals.
VIRGO
WEEK OF JANUARY 31 TO FEBRUARY 6, 2021
ARIES
Negotiating with people you love is always a delicate matter. You’ll be much more vulnerable if you let your emotions get involved. Try to take a step back so you can see the situation clearly.
TAURUS
Professional success is just around the corner. You’ll manage to gather a large group of people for a particular event, and you’ll benefit from great discounts that’ll allow you to increase your profits.
GEMINI
Your passions will be awakened, your mind will be filled with great ideas and all eyes will be on you. You’ll be enthusiastically applauded, and you’ll receive a medal or other type of award.
CANCER
You’ll find yourself spending most of your time at home or in the company of family members. Someone might ask you to take on some pretty hefty responsibilities.
LEO Bargaining during your next shopping trip could be advantageous. You only need to raise your voice slightly to be heard and respected. Don’t hesitate to express your emotions out loud.
VIRGO
WEEK OF FEBRUARY 7 TO 13, 2021
ARIES
Your responsibilities at home and at work will take priority. You’ll have very little time for yourself. You’ll also have to organize an important business meeting.
TAURUS
At work, you’ll be so successful your boss won’t have a choice but to offer you a raise to ensure you don’t take an offer elsewhere. You’ll be quite proud of yourself.
GEMINI
You’ll contemplate existential questions, and you’ll feel the need to make some big changes in your life. You’ll follow through on commitments in your relationship.
CANCER
You’ll be able to come to an understanding with certain people in your life after an argument. You’ll show great wisdom in handling the situation, which should probably be dealt with sooner rather than later.
LEO
You’ll have a very stimulating week at work. However, be careful not to set unrealistically high expectations for yourself, otherwise, success might elude you. Tensions might build among your coworkers.
VIRGO
WEEK OF FEBRUARY 14 TO 20, 2021
ARIES
You might be faced with unexpected expenses. Fortunately, you’ll get something worthwhile in return. And with the right negotiations, you’ll come out on the other side in pretty good shape.
TAURUS
You might expect to have a very quiet week, but the opposite awaits. Things will get quite hectic, with plenty of unexpected twists along the way. Fortunately, you’ll also enjoy yourself.
GEMINI
Some big changes will start to take place in your personal and professional life. You’ll need to learn how to relax under these new circumstances in order to lower your stress level.
CANCER
You’ll start to build a more active social life, perhaps online. You’ll have quite a few friends who’ll encourage you to sign up for an art class, yoga session or other type of wellness activity with them.
LEO
Your boss will hand you a promotion on a silver platter. Even if you’re short on time, you’ll be motivated to take on new personal and professional projects.
VIRGO
In the middle of a crowd, you won’t always know how to push your way through it. At work, your boss, clients or colleagues will frequently seem uncertain and make a lot of vague requests.
Sure-Fire Streaming:
Exercise is great for your health when done in moderation. You’ll find people with whom you can enjoy an inspirational activity and discuss your spirituality.
The best in TV and film from your living room
LIBRA
BY JORDAN PARKER https://parkerandpictures.wordpress.com/
Snowpiercer – Available On Netflix
At work, you’ll be entitled to a significant promotion. Before you agree to anything, however, it’s vital that you talk it over with your partner and the rest of your family to avoid any misunderstandings.
SCORPIO
Based on the wonderful film of the same name, Snowpiercer isn’t a show that has the same grit as its inspiration.
However, this story of a train – speeding around the earth over and over as an icy apocalypse looms around it –is an intense study of character and class divides.
LIBRA
that’s easily digestible during these times.
This will be a hectic week, especially if you have young children or an active social life. As for matters of the heart, you might experience a lot of passion while on a trip or romantic getaway.
chy comedies Step Brothers and Anchorman – makes a wonderful film that showcases his zany comedic form while also having a message.
You’ll be the focus of everyone’s attention, so expect to receive some applause and recognition for your achie vements. It’ll be a situation that gives you a substantial confidence boost.
LIBRA
You might have to spend a day at home twiddling your thumbs, perhaps waiting for a delivery. The situation could prompt you to reassess the decor in a few rooms of your home.
A getaway will likely be planned soon. You’ll finally be in the mood to celebrate, which will prompt you to organize a party. You’ll also discover a new spiritual approach to life.
LIBRA
A particular situation could upset your peace of mind. All you need to do is trust those close to you in order to rediscover your love for life. It might be time to rein in your suspicion of others.
The Big Short – Available On Netflix
The winter blues are setting in and beginning to affect you more and more. It won’t be long before you start planning a vacation somewhere tropical. Good times ahead will reenergize you.
SAGITTARIUS
The train has two classes of citizens – first class and “tailies”, stuck living in the back of the train feeding on scraps. They’re planning to overtake the engine and revolt.
SCORPIO
The harsh winter weather could start to dampen your spirits. Fortunately, now’s an excellent time to fire up your imagination and create a work of art.
If you had as much trouble understanding this whole attack on Wall Street via GameStop shares, this is the movie for you.
You’ll be very sensitive, and your emotions might play tricks on you. You’ll shed some light on a nefarious affair at work or possibly within the family.
CAPRICORN
With incredible performances from Hamilton star Daveed Diggs and Oscar-winner Jennifer Connelly, it’s a really nice diversion
Steve Carell, Christian Bale, Ryan Gosling, and Brad Pitt are all magnificent, and lend so much power to this incredible flick.
SAGITTARIUS
Set around the time of the real-life collapse of the U.S. housing market, a group of investors bet against the market to make huge amounts of money.
You’ll need to hone your negotiation skills, both in your personal and professional life. You have everything you need to reach a lasting agreement that will impact the rest of your career.
AQUARIUS
You’ll find yourself surrounded by many people in situations that might be quite stressful or scary at times. Some down time before the end of the week will be crucial to recharge your batteries.
CAPRICORN
The Oscar-winning film uses comedy to teach its viewers about the stock market and finances, all the while showing the corruption on Wall Street.
You’ll find yourself the focus of everyone’s attention, which will make you very happy. You might also receive a reward or possibly some kind of promotion at work.
PISCES
DID THIS AD CATCH YOUR EYE?
The Place Beyond The Pines – Available On Prime Video
One of the most underrated films on Ryan Gosling’s resume is this searing drama.
You’ll likely be given some very important new responsibilities at work. You’ll be greatly appreciated, and people will go out of their way to do business with you because you’re someone who can be trusted.
AQUARIUS
Director Adam McKay – at the time best known for raun-
If your health is the least bit fragile these days, it would be a good idea to take some time to rest. Fortunately, the sleep you get will be incredibly restorative, and you’ll quickly recove strength.
Then imagine the MONSTROUS number of other readers that noticed it too!
Advertise your products and services in our newspaper and get noticed! Call 306-463-2211
This story of a motorcycle stuntman who begins robbing banks to support his girlfriend and new son leads him to tricky criminal territory he never imagined prior.
His path crosses a corrupt detective and rookie cop, all the while leading him to explore his own past.
You’ll feel the desire to travel and explore. You’ll be inspired by new adventures, each one more fantastic than the last. You might consider signing up for a training course.
Gosling is the best he’s ever been here, and with performances from Eva Mendes, a ruthless Bradley Cooper, and Mahershala Ali, it’s an ensemble that’s hard to forget.
Your emotions might run high if you experience a turbulent financial situation. Fortunately, a solution will quickly present itself and you’ll soon be back on the path to stability and success.
Pines will shake you to your core in the best possible way.
The Blues Brothers –Available On Netflix
At 30-years-old, I saw this wonderful little comedy gem for the first time, and have no idea why it took so long.
SCORPIO
When Jake Blues is released from prison, he immediately links back up with his brother Elwood, and the two become convinced they’re on a mission from God to get their band back together and save their old Catholic boys home from being sold off.
If you plan to hit the road, make sure you have clear directions to avoid wasting time searching for your destination. Make sure your GPS app is up to date, as it’ll prove to be a valuable resource.
SAGITTARIUS
Director John Landis makes a hilarious film with awesome car chases, lovely musical sequences and much more.
No one likes having to tighten their belt, and that’s exactly what motivates you to correct a bad financial situation. You’ll take all the necessary steps as soon as you figure out the best course of action.
It’s an entirely uplifting, intelligent and fun endeavour, and it’s a classic in every way.
CAPRICORN
SCORPIO
You need to weigh the pros and cons before you make a decision. It’s possible you’ll be asked a lot of questions you can’t answer. This will leave you feeling rather perplexed.
SAGITTARIUS
You’ll have a lot of little things to take care of at home and at work. Fortunately, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment for having completed all the tasks you kept putting off.
CAPRICORN
Beautiful Boy – Available On Prime Video
In addition to it being a hectic week, you’ll have to fill a variety of obligations that take up most of your time. Fortunately, you know how to stay organized in this type of situation.
AQUARIUS
This Amazon Prime original – based on the memoirs from father and son David and Nic Sheff – chronicle Nic’s drug abuse and his struggles to get clean.
The arrival of a cold will signal that your body needs time to rest and recharge. You’ll worry about many small things. Learning how to meditate or relax another way would do you good.
PISCES
This real-life story shows his relapse and push to survive, as well as his recovery and the way he affects his family.
A group of people you’re in charge of will expect you to take the lead on everything. You’ll have a lot of managing to do. Embrace your role and don’t be afraid to assert yourself.
Steve Carell is truly incredible here as his doting father David, who just doesn’t know how to help his wayward boy. Maura Tierney is also wonderful as his mother.
But it’s Golden Globe nominee Timothee Chalamet, as Nic Scheff, who infuses this film with so much grace, quiet beauty and trauma to make it feel authentic.
There are some big projects coming up at home. Your love life could take a whole new turn after an interesting conversation. A birth might soon be announced in the family.
AQUARIUS
This is sure to be an eventful week. You’ll have to work overtime and take care of some family responsibilities before you can even think about having fun.
PISCES
If you renovate or redecorate your home, you’ll manage to find some great deals and your property value will increase significantly. Don’t hesitate to ask for a raise at work.
EMPTY COFFERS: Banks need to manage their ATMs better. Four in a row have told me, ‘insufficient funds.”
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: SAGITTARIUS, CAPRICORN AND AQUARIUS
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: GEMINI, CANCER AND LEO
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: ARIES, TAURUS AND PISCES
Get outside safely this winter
Getting outside — even in the winter — is a great way to get fresh air and boost your mood naturally.
When taking part in winter activities, ensure you’re taking appropriate safety precautions. Tobogganing can be dangerous and should be done carefully. If you’re planning to go tobogganing, here are a few tips on how to stay safe:
• Always inspect your toboggan to ensure it’s safe for use.
• Wear a ski helmet. Head injuries can be serious. A ski helmet designed for use in cold weather and high speeds is recommended.
| PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
• Dress warmly in layers to avoid cold-related injuries like frostbite or hypothermia. After-
FTG Enterprises Inc.
HEAVY DUTY REPAIR SHOP
wards, remove wet clothes quickly to prevent frostbite.
• Look out for others while on the hill.
• Move out of the way quickly after finishing a run and stay to the side of the sliding path when walking up the hill.
• Children should be supervised by an adult and never toboggan alone or at night.
For more tobogganing safety tips, go to:
https://myhealth.alberta.ca/ Alberta/Pages/sledding-andsnow-safety.aspx
The Bible should be made mandatory reading for all politicians! If Trudeau and Biden and the rest of the greenies had ever read their Bible, they would know that God put everything on and in the earth for our use, “Coal, oil, gas or lumber”. It’s all supposed to be used, but we have brainwashed people - greenies and a senile old man trying to trying to stop us from using almost everything. Most of the young people are so brainwashed from listening to the likes of Gore and Suzuki and even little Greta Thunberg, that they think the world is doomed if we don’t keep the North Pole covered in ice. Well, it will be nice when the ice is gone from both Poles, and we get a nice even climate all over the world. I think idiots that want to control the climate with a Carbon Tax better get used to the ice melting!
403-676-2152
