TRIPLE THE FUN! Triplet siblings Elly, Theia and Reese Hardin were introduced
uary 20 at the Circle 7 Ranch in Shaunavon, SK. It is quite rare for a cow
weighed in at 74 lbs and two heifers weighed 60 and 56 lbs.
Acadia Valley correspondent found!
After hearing from several subscribers that they were missing the Acadia Valley report, I am happy to say that we have found our correspodent!
Yolanda Kuhn has stepped up to the plate to fill the void left when Pat Didychuk retired after six dedicated years on the job.
Yolanda can be reached at yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582. We look forward to working with you in bringing the news from Acadia Valley.
Oyen News: Keystone XL workers begin packing up
BY DIANA WALKER fwalker1@telus.net
With Keystone XL shelved TC Energy, the owner of the pipeline being constructed between Hardisty and Oyen, has announced its plans to eliminate more than 1,000 construction jobs in the coming weeks. Workers began packing up January 20. Already fewer vehicles are parked in the Legion parking lot and camp site on the west side of Oyen.
In a story reported by Lisa Johnson in the January 22 issue of the Calgary Herald, Oyen’s Mayor Doug Jones said
those workers in the Oyen area spent approximately $3 million every month in the town’s grocery stores, hair salons, gas stations and local businesses.
“They will not be coming back next year, unless we get something to turn it around.”
Co-owner of Fountain Tire-NAPA, Dale Walker, said businesses enjoyed the economic boost.
“All the businesses enjoyed it while it was here. It was just amazing the amount of tires they bought and the service they needed for all their vehicles. It was great and now there’s basically nothing,” said Walker.
Ice plant turned off at curling rink
Bud Herbert, president of the Oyen & District Curling Club, said the ice plant was shut off about 1:30 p.m. on Jauary 22.
Bud says the decision was made because of the Covid shutdown. “We made the tough decision after contacting the executive members,” he said.
Lee Tucker, Lloyd Fraser, Danny McLaughlin and Bud began clearing the ice out. Bud says Riley Carrol and his son kept them entertained.
The time to clear the ice will depend on the outside temperature.
“We had to get the rings, hacks, and all the lines up because the base is made up with sand,” said Bud. “We don’t want to walk on the sand as it makes a lot of problems, and has to be repaired.”
Speedy recovery wishes to Martin Snell while he recuperates with a broken leg.
NOTE: If you have club or personal news you would allow me to include in this column please email fwalker1@telus.net
to triplet calves born on Jan-
to give birth to triplets. The bull calf
PHOTO BY SYDNEY HARDIN
Will 2021 get better? You bet.
KATE WINQUIST
As we turn another page on our calendars, we are getting a little bit closer to spring. Let’s face it, 2020 wasn’t a banner year for the majority of us, and the beginning of 2021 has not been a heck of a lot better! I’m hoping spirits will be lifted with the days getting longer and the temperatures getting warmer.
I’ve had a case of the January blahs for, well, pretty much all of January! December’s excitement with my husband and oldest son moving up to Kindersley, Christmas and all its deliciousness, and adding another newspaper to our media business, January just seemed to pale in comparison. Not that I want every month to have so many life-changing adventures. I’d like the pace to slow down just a tad while still being able to enjoy day-to-day life.
I genuinely believe most of life’s misery lately has been caused by the media. Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Kate, you run not one, but two newspapers. Your business is called Your Southwest Media Group!” That is very true. I have never beaten to the same drum as your typical media outlets, and I never will. Trust me!
There is a reason that I live
in my own little bubble. I like to be in the background, minding my own business while exploring the outside world on my terms.
What really got under my skin this past month was the storming of the United States Capitol on January 6. I do not want to get into a political argument with anyone on this. Whether you believe that the riot and violent attack against the United States Congress was called to action by President Donald Trump or not, it was just a sad, sad day for America and the rest of the world. You couldn’t turn on your television without seeing the horrific images. The mainstream media was lapping all of it up. Between the coverage of that and the Coronavirus pandemic, it’s a wonder that we all haven’t been driven into madness. Thankfully, I do not watch a whole lot of TV.
Newly elected President Joe Biden was sworn in, and to no one’s surprise, he killed the Keystone Pipeline the same day. Alberta premier Jason Kenney referred to Biden’s move to cancel the pipeline as a ‘gut punch.’ I think it was more like a kick to the groin.
I picked a fine time to take over The Oyen Echo, I thought to myself. The community was going through a mini-boom just last year. Now business
owners and residents are bracing themselves and preparing for life without the Keystone construction’s added benefit.
It will be my fourth edition of The Echo this week and the twenty-ninth for Your West Central Voice. The one thing that I can promise you is that there won’t be a whole lot of gloom and doom on these pages. I will continue to do what I have always done and that is to
provide the news and photos that I believe you want to see.
My Mom called me up last week, expressing her disappointment that I once again missed my “Gal from Glidden” column. “That’s your bread and butter,” she said. I guess she is right. My success has been built on giving a part of myself to my readers. Through my words and my photos, you have gotten an inside look at
my world. Keep reading. Keep looking. Keep positive. 2021 will get better. I hope I will take you on many more adventures.
It really is a small world! I graduated from Kindersley Composite School in 1987 with (I believe) 67 classmates. One of those classmates was a girl by the name of Denise Holyoak. I had not had contact with Denise until just recently. She is now Denise Hogan and she lives in Oyen with her husband Don. Guess where Denise had been working for the past 9 years? That’s right. The Oyen Echo! Denise was kind enough to send me a photo of when she and I played softball together. Ah, yes! The good old days.
The photo was taken at a ball tournament in Eatonia, back when we were in Grade 7, so I was probably 13 yearsold. Thank you to the TD Bank for sponsoring our team. What lovely pom-pom hats we had!
One of my best friends at this time was Tracy Derr. I hadn’t thought about Tracy for years and wondered where she had gotten to. She moved from Kindersley when we were in Grade 8 or 9 and we lost touch.
I’m happy to say that through the magic of Facebook, I was able to find Tracy on January 17, which just happened to be her 52nd birthday! It turns out that she has had a great life, is happily married and has two grown children. Her daughter just got married last summer.
If I hadn’t taken over The Echo, I never would have found this out!
Kindersley girls softball team at a tournament in Eatonia (circa 1982). Back Row (L-R): Tracy Derr, Katie Drummond, Karla Longmire, Denise Holyoak, Jean Torrens, Debbie Bachman. Front Row (L-R): Janice Cote, Chris , Tammy Fritz, Terry Wolfe, Sherry Senn, Tara Yates.
The Return of Parliament: Ensuring You Are Heard
With the devastating effects of activist energy policies leading to the cancellation of Keystone XL and the need to lay the groundwork for an economic recovery, along with the need to ensure Canadians and Canadian Business have what’s needed in the fight against COVID, my colleagues and I in the Official Opposition have a big job ahead of us when Parliament resumes January 25th. That said, I am optimistic that Canadians will remain resilient and that our Conservative caucus is up for the challenge to hold the Liberals to account.
The cancellation of the KXL Pipeline has impacted around one thousand folks from Battle River-Crowfoot who were laid off when new US President Joe Biden signed an executive order cancelling the permit. While the case for this
nation-building energy infrastructure project is clear, we see the Government treat this economic sanction against Canada differently than when the former US administration levied sanctions on other industries such as steel and aluminum or when major manufacturing job losses led to immediate responses. This should not be a partisan or political issue as it is about Canada’s future. The Liberals’ actions are sowing seeds of deep division that threaten to tear Canada apart. As Parliament returns, I will be making the case that Prime Minister Trudeau has failed Alberta and all of Canada by “acknowledging” and “respecting” the United States decision.
January 25th marks a grim milestone of it being one year from the first case of the coronavirus being discovered in Canada. There has been endless debate and discussion around how the various levels of Canadian government have responded in comparison to other nations around the world.
One year later, we witness how the current Liberal Government’s mismanagement and ideology have hindered Canada’s
Youngstown Communiqué
Reported
by Robert Blagen 403-854-0664
I am saddened to report the passing a number of people I know from town and surrounding communities. I wish to send out my condolences to the family and friends of Karl Berg of the Sedalia area who recently died. I was also saddened to hear of the passing of
a long time friend, and wish to send my condolences out to the family and friends of Irene Kulyk who was originally from the Cereal area, and who had currently resided in the Coronation area. I would like to send out my condolences to Andree and family and friends of Harvey Fode of
ability to be a global leader in combating COVID. As the House of Commons resumes sittings, Conservatives will be leading the conversation on recovery.
Canadians have sacrificed so much over the last year and, although there are still challenges ahead, folks are owed a plan that gives them certainty, including ensuring that COVID is contained by vaccinations and effective response measures and that there is clarity on how people and business can plan in the short, medium, and long term.
Youngstown who has recently died.
Old Man Winter has reared his head and given us a blast of frigid temperature and a bit of snow to remind us that it is still indeed the winter season.
I am happy to report that the Small World Cafe here in town has been serving up a lot of delicious take out food since their official opening and if you have not had the chance to try it, you should. They are open Monday to Friday from 9:30 to 4:30. Stop in or give them a call at 403435-0089.
Unfortunately, the Liberals have attempted to use current uncertainty to their political and personal advantage and have even let it slip that they very well may force an election. Conservatives are wholly focused on making sure Canadians have a reason to be optimistic about our future. We will be collaborative when needed, will critique when required, and show leadership at a time when Canadians need it most.
It is an honour to serve as the Member of Parliament for Battle Riv-
er-Crowfoot. If you have any questions about my
LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER
Sealed tenders will be received by Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law of Consort and Oyen until the deadline of 4:00 p.m. on February 18, 2021, for the sale of the following Land:
1. Section 34-30-29-W3
W ½ 27-30-29-W3 3. W ½ 26-30-29-W3
S ½ 22-30-29-W3 5. W ½ 15-30-29-W3
W ½ 23-30-29-W3 7. E ½ 27-30-29-W3 (home ¼ is SE)
• 1,874 total acres - 1,624 of which are cultivated (GPS measurement)
• 180 acres of pasture with very good water
• Yard site contains: 2 homes (1,200 and 800 sq ft); heated barn (30 x 50); heated shop (32 x 48); large machine shed (70 x 120); small machine shed (40 x 60); 38,000 bu of bin space (17,500 bu has aeration)
Land is located 4 miles south of Loverna, SK directly on the AB/SK border.
Tenders on the Land must be accompanied by a certified cheque, bank draft, or electronic transfer in favor of “Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law” for $20,000.00 as a deposit. The deposit will be returned if the tender is not accepted. If a tender is accepted and the tenderer does not proceed with the sale, the deposit of the tenderer will be forfeited to the owner. The balance of the tender price shall be paid and the sale will close no later than March 19th, 2021. The owner and the successful tenderer will each be responsible for their own legal fees. Each tenderer must understand that a tender is an unconditional offer to purchase the Shares/Land set out in the tender. Tenderers must rely on their own research of the Lands, and Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law and the owner make no warranties or representations in regard to the Lands.
The Vendor requests bids for a share purchase whereby the Purchaser buys the vendor’s corporation which maintains only the lands and assets listed above. The Home Quarter is personally owned and will be sold as well. Share purchase tenders will be given significant preference over land purchase tenders. Should a potential purchaser require further information or have questions regarding a share sale, please contact the Vendor’s lawyer, Reid Wilkie at the number below.
The owner has complete discretion whether to accept the highest or any tender. Further inquiries, or to arrange viewing the lands, can be made by contacting Reid Wilkie at (403) 577-2539 or reid@smithhersey.com. Tenders may be emailed or sealed in an envelope marked “LAND TENDER” and delivered to:
Smith & Hersey Agribusiness Law
Attention: Reid A. Wilkie
Box 95 Consort, AB, T0C 1B0
Phone: 403.527.5506 or 403.664.2812
Email: reid@smithhersey.com In person to Reid Wilkie in Consort every Wednesday
person to Reid Wilkie in Oyen every Thursday
R. Barry Miskuski, John F. Stodalka, Jeffrey J. Neumann, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Hermann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen
Downtown Empress, Alberta on a cold, blustery day January 23, 2021. PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Getting by with a little help from friends
Here’s a quote by Bob the Minion, “Starting tomorrow whatever life throws at me, I’m ducking so it hits someone else.”
It’s a funny quote, but practically speaking, it may not work out. Words posted at a Holocaust Museum say: “First they came for the Jews and I did not speak out, because I was not a Jew. Then they came for the homosexuals, and I did not speak out, because I was not a homosexual. Then they came for me, and there was no one left to speak for me.” You may see different versions of the quote, but the message remains the same - people were complicit in their silence.
In order to make a difference in our world, people need to
speak up when it’s not always popular or acceptable to do so, rather than maintain one’s respectability. This became evident recently when MP Derek Sloan was ousted from the Conservative party.
The first effort to eliminate Sloan involved a donation of $131 which he had accepted from a man named Paul Fromm. Erin O’Toole declared Sloan had an intolerance for racism within the party. Fromm said, “I think somebody is out to get Sloan and are prepared to use just about anything.”
Other MPs expressed their concerns, as the party acknowledged vetting hundreds of thousands of supporters would be challenging, and even impossible. It appeared this initial attempt to oust Sloan had failed.
But then O’Toole said Sloan had a pattern of destructive behaviour, because he was encouraging supporters to get involved in the Conservative policy convention. However, there were numerous groups and individuals diligently encouraging Conservatives to get involved, participate, and register for the convention.
This was obvious, as over 3300 Conservatives registered for the first-ever virtual convention. This is a record over all past conventions, and shows that members care about the Party’s
governance and want to help build a great platform that will help contribute to a healthy Canada going forward.
It was the direct result of people believing leaders should be challenged by the people in their ridings, and that people should use their influence to get things done. However Sloan’s encouragement to people to “be a presence at convention” was frowned upon by the party.
Prime Minister Trudeau said he’s pleased O’Toole is showing leadership. “Political parties need to remain vigilant, particularly in the wake of what we see in the United States, from the infiltration or the active presence of fringe or extremist or violent or unacceptable or intolerant elements,” the Prime Minister said at a news conference. “And that’s something that we constantly need to work towards as all politicians in Canada.”
Is O’Toole looking to receive respectability from Prime Minister Trudeau? O’Toole has said, “People of all backgrounds have a place in our party.” But on the
other hand he penned a lengthy letter rejecting the “far right” in his Conservative party. But is it ‘his’ Conservative party, or the ‘people’s’ Conservative party?
Sloan isn’t the only PC who has been ousted from the Conservative party. MPP Roman Barber said, “I wrote a letter to Doug Ford, asking him to lift the lockdown. In response, I was removed the Ontario PC Caucus.”
What does the Conservative Party consider to be a “pattern of destructive behaviour”? Does it include expressing views contrary to those of Mr. O’Toole? Does it include expressing social conservative views and policies? Do politicians get to define what’s unacceptable?
The Conservatives don’t seem to have a clear definition for a “pattern of destructive behaviour”, but they do have a solution ... removal. What happens when many Conservatives find themselves looking around within the party and saying, “there’s no one left to speak for me”?
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
By Robert Blagen
Box 171 Youngstown, AB • 403-779-3859
TRUMP or BIDEN: What a difference one day makes. The media goes from “bashing and trashing” President Trump to praising Biden for saving the world from the Covid Pandemic and even reversing Climate Change by shutting down the Pipeline.
At the end of the day I think the media thought old Joe could walk on water! Boy, I sure hope he’s as good as they’re painting him to be. I know Trudeau will be happy. He stalled the
Pipeline for 10-12 years, but Biden stopped it for him with “the stroke of a pen.”
One thing we know for sure, is that Biden wouldn’t have won the election without the media. I believe the media needs to have all the credit for the election win! I imagine the media will play a big part in the next Canadian election also. Would you want to place a bet on whose side they’ll be on? Oh, I forgot, they’re supposed to be “unbiased!”
at
insertion. Active accounts excepted.
Alberta farmers need fixes to the AgriStability program
The AgriStability program was once a key program for Alberta farmers, designed to protect them against large declines in farming income. Iconic Albertan cattle ranchers and grain farmers were especially reliant on it as a guaranteed backstop should they face a bad year. It accounted for millions of dollars in the pockets of farmers who needed it the most.
However, farmers were blindsided in 2012 when the previous federal Conservative government cut AgriStability. The cuts included a “Reference Margin Limit”, which limits payments and makes the program too complex. Farmers have become increasingly frustrated that there is no predictability on receiving
FTG Enterprises Inc.
HEAVY DUTY REPAIR SHOP
•
•
•
buds_e_i_services@yahoo.com Office: 403-676-2162 Fax: 403-676-2152
payment. As a result, most farmers do not even bother signing up for the program any more. They don’t believe it’s worth their time or money.
Recently, the federal Liberal Agriculture Minister proposed to improve the program by removing the “Reference Margin Limit” and increasing the compensation rate back up to 80%. These proposed fixes to AgriStability would produce $170 million in direct support payments to farmers annually. Alberta farmers would enjoy a substantial financial boost by receiving a significant amount of those support dollars.
To make these changes happen, the federal Liberal Government need provinces to agree to pay their 40% share. Provinces across Canada are agreeing, and it has come down to the Prairie governments to step up in support of their farmers.
Prairie farmers are urging their provincial governments to accept the deal, but the UCP Government does not seem enthusiastic to repair this broken pro-
gram. The UCP Government has created the narrative that the Trudeau administration doesn’t do anything for Albertans. But here is a tangible example of action by the Feds that would provide a huge benefit to Alberta. This precious opportunity for farmers may be sacrificed on the altar of politics.
Proper support programs are vital to the success of farmers and rural Alberta as a whole. I worked with Farm Credit Canada and in agricultural finance, and I know the financial stress farmers can face. The Kenny government must listen to farmers on this one, take the deal, and get this important AgriStability program back on track.
- Ronald Brochu
Ronald has had a long career in tax and finance, including at Farm Credit Canada, Canada Revenue Agency and the Government of Alberta. Ron was also the federal Liberal candidate for Sturgeon River-Parkland in the 2019 election.
February 2-8
Happy birthday to Francis Opheim, Kara Fulton, Kara Weselosky, Maxine Girletz, Tenille Stevens, Theoren Brown, John Diakow, Blake Holbein, Kent Beaudoin, Teiwa Brown, Richelle Smigelski, Soraya Rude, Amanda Elder, Joshua Smith, Mark Strikwerda, Mary-
Cereal News
Reported by Maxine Girletz
403-664-0513
anne Warnke, Beth Hains, Katie Molzan, Nichole Gerein, Paul Davis, Sydney Mutai, TJ Carey, Travis Kerslake, Whitley Muntean.
Happy anniversary to Dennis and Penny Grover, Ken and Maryanne Wanke.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
is currently seeking
REQUIRED STARTING ASAP
UNTIL APPROXIMATELY MID-JULY
Must be able to read and follow Planting sheets, supervise and maintain Quality control and be able to oversee a small crew of 4 to 5 people. No experience necessary. Wage $17.00 per hour.
SEND OR DROP OFF YOUR RESUME TO:
OYEN GREENHOUSES LTD.
201 - 1 Avenue West PO Box 358, Oyen, AB, T0J 2J0
Fax: 403-664-2759
Email: accounting@oyengreenhouses.ca
TRAFFIC STOP:
“Sir, I believe your wife fell out of your car about a mile back”.
“Thank goodness. I thought I had gone deaf.
Fire Chief Stephen Muzyka (left) and Deputy Fire Chief Shane Dziatkewich of the Cereal Fire Department were awarded their Exemplary Service medals for 20 years of loyal and exemplary service to public safety for the community of Cereal. Both are now working on their 25th year with the local department. These awards were presented by MaryAnn Salik of the Village of Cereal. SUBMITTED PHOTO
BOOK Notes
**The library is currently operating through curbside service only**
ADULT FICTION:
• The Chicken Sisters by K.J. Dell’Antonia
• His Only Wife by Peace Medie
• Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline
• Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart
NON-FICTION:
• Didn’t See That Coming: Putting Life Together When Your World Falls Apart by Rachel Hollis
February’s Online Book Club read is the novel 1984 by George Orwell. Copies are available at the library. Please contact the library to register and arrange a pick-up day. We will meet near the end of the month via Zoom.
SUMMER STUDENT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
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.
by Tricia Fischbuch
The library is now lending “Book and a Movie” packs – with popcorn included! There are different packs available and we can also customize to ages and personal requests depending on availability. Some current themes include Outlander, Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, The Andy Griffith Show, Star Wars, fitness, Matthew McConaughey (including his brand-new book!), and more. Several include a cookbook as well. Contact the library to borrow.
An adult colouring kit is also available for patrons to check out. Again, call the library to arrange a pick-up day.
“Sleep is good, he said, and books are better.” - George R. R. Martin 403-664-3644 ext. 2727 aoymlibrary@marigold.ab.ca
Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7
Administrative Assistant
• Permanent Full time (32 hrs/wk, may expand into 40 hrs/wk)
• Starting wage is between $20-$25/hr; depending on experience
• Benefits after 3 months (50/50 contribution)
• On the job training provided
• Duties include work within common owned companies
• Located in Acadia Valley, AB
Attributes
Individual must be reliable, confidential, have an attention to detail, highly organized, ability to multitask and prioritize job tasks. The ability to learn quickly would be ideal as would someone that is a self starter. Proficiency in word and excel will be a strong asset.
Expected Job Tasks include but are not limited to;
• Assist in creating, entering and tracking daily cost tickets,
• Data entry and cost tracking of all assets,
• Data entry, report generating and cost tracking of gravel pit volumes and expenses,
• Tracking and generating Sask. PST reports,
• Assist with updating and maintaining websites,
• Various filing,
• Other administrative duties forthcoming.
If you feel that this position may be for you, please forward a resume with references and a cover letter to vortraxsafety@netago.ca
*Due to COVID please do not drop a resume off in person*
We will be accepting resumes until February 7th 2021 and contacting those short listed the following week.
Start date will be anywhere from February 15th to March 1st. We would like to thank everyone for their interest.
Snow buntings and sun dogs, January 25, 2021. PHOTO BY NANCY HANSON
COMING SPRING 2021...
News from the Valley
January 27th, 2021
Reported by Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582
I guess I’m going to try my hand at being the Acadia Valley news correspondent, bare with me as I try my best to fill some pretty big shoes. Thank you to Pat Didychuk for her contributions over the past 6 years!
We’ve found ourselves in a deepfreeze this past week, a bit of a shock to the system as we’ve been spoiled with warmer than usual temperatures for the better part of the winter so far.
The talk of the town is the new sign showcasing a picture of our future new hall. Armor Building Systems of Brooks is the lead contractor on the project. They’re hoping to start construction April 1st 2021 (weather permitting) with completion expected sometime fall 2021.
The Seniors are not holding any meetings or activities right now due to Covid, however they are still collecting the annual dues. Please drop off your dues at the Seniors Centre or send by mail $10 per person. New members are always welcome.
The Rec. Club is selling 50/50 tickets, monthly draws will take place the 1st Monday of every month. Tickets are available at The Store, Skappak’s Farm supply or contact a Rec. Club member. The outdoor rink has been a hit up until
the recent cold snap, hopefully it warms up soon! Due to the current health restrictions, The Arena and Curling rink remain closed, unfortunately we have to cancel our annual Ladies Bonspiel. Stay tunned for updates regarding the Ice to Dice. We are hoping to be able to have our Family Fishing Derby on February 14th, provided the Health restrictions will allow it. The Acadia Valley Diner remains open for take out orders only from Monday- Saturday.
The A.V. Butcher Shop is having a sale from February 1st-8th
Warren Peers School received a generous donation of $2000 from T.C. Energy and $1000 from F.C.C to put towards the hot lunch program which provides FREE hot lunches for their students.
Darci, Craig and big sister Zoey Skappak welcomed a new baby girl Ryan Alexandra Skappak born on January 7th.
Congratulations to Scott and Stevie Heeg on the arrival of their baby boy Emerson James Heeg who was born on January 24th.
Thanks for reading this week. I will end with a quote from William James “Act as if what you do makes a difference. IT DOES”
PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
Springer a great addition for Blue Jays
Hey, George Springer. welcome to Canada. Leave your trash can back in Houston, but bring that big bat, that outstanding glove and the leadership for which you’re known.
Toronto Blue Jays made one of the biggest splashes of baseball’s off-season in mid-January by signing Springer, one of the most coveted free agents on the market. The 31-year-old Springer said he would agree to perform for the Jays for the next six years in exchange for $150 million (U.S.) flowing into his bank account. The fresh and powerful new look of the Jays’ lineup is giving Canadian fans reason to believe that it could be 1992 and 1993 all over again in World Series lore.
Suddenly, undoubtedly, the Blue Jays have one of the best teams in baseball. Their outfield is crowded with all-star calibre skill, but while manager Charlie Montoyo can play only three outfielders at a time, the overflow beyond the infield gives general manager Ross Atkins a stack of potential trading chips that even poker star Daniel Negreanu would envy.
After the Springer news flashed across the baseball
world — one day after Toronto nabbed free agent closer Kirby Yates, one of the best in the game — one U.S. journalist projected a potential Jays’ lineup on opening day (and if this team isn’t World series bound, then Rob Manfred is commissioner for life): CF Springer; 2B Cavan Biggio; DH Randal Grichuk; SS Bo Bichette; 3B Vladimir Guerrero, Jr.; 1B Rowdy Tellez; LF lourdes Gurriel; RF Teoscar Hernandez; C Danny Jansen. Then put last season’s big free-agent acquisition, Hyun Jin Ryu, on the mound and the 1927 Yankees in their prime might be begging for mercy.
Springer played a key role in Houston’s World Series championship of 2017, a title that evolved into a major controversy a year later when pitcher Mike Fiers, a former Astro-turned-Oakland-A, spilled the beans about technological cheating that involved banging a trash can a certain way to signify to the batter what pitch was on the way. A few higher ups in the Astros organization lost their jobs, but players were somehow insulated from the negative fallout. It was Springer, remember, who was the
World Series MVP that year. Jays’ fans will enjoy watching Springer and his new mates in action, whether it’s in person in Toronto (unlikely), in Buffalo (where the Jays’ home base was last year); or on TV, where Rogers’ ratings are expected to skyrocket, bringing in plenty of advertising dough and making those huge contracts more manageable.
Yes, it could be a great Spring(er) in Canada this year.
• Blogger Chad Picasner, on veteran (and chubby) third baseman Pablo Sandoval: “In his day, Pablo was very good around the plate — both home plate and the dinner plate.”
• Michael Clair of MLB. com, on the late Dodger manager Tommy Lasorda’s run-in
with mascots Youppi, Phillie Phanatic and San Diego Chicken: “Probably for the best that Lasorda never appeared on ‘Sesame Street.’ ”
• Peter King, of NBC.com. on the challenge facing new Jacksonville coach Urban Meyer after 17 years of success coaching college football: “Meyer’s about to learn that Akron’s not on the Jags’ 2021 schedule but Seattle and Buffalo are. “
• Olivia Jones, on Twitter: “11-year-old son (raised a Canucks fan) has randomly decided to start cheering for the Leafs . . . he’s now free to a good home.”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes said he went through concussion protocol. That is the good news. The bad news is that he made the announcement into a banana while on the toilet in a bathroom stall.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke. com: “A spicy peanut butter six times hotter than the strongest chili was being sold in England under the label Instant Regret. No, wait — that may be the name of a new Jacksonville Jaguars season ticket package.”
• From fark.com: “NFL confirms that it will be proceeding with its Super Spreader event in February, but it’s going to limit infections to only 22,000 people or so.”
• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “Yogi Berra, the late Yankees legend, is about to get his own commemorative postage stamp. New U.S. Postal Service motto: It ain’t delivered till it’s delivered.”
• Nets coach Steve Nash, to reporters, on why he’ll manage James Harden’s minutes early on: “We don’t want to run the batteries down on our new Christmas present this early.”
• Chad Picasner again, on Urban Meyer taking the Jaguars’ head-coaching job after twice quitting college gigs for health reasons: “Of course, the best treatment for that is money. ... I’m sure he feels better already.”
• Mike Hart of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, after trash-talking Rams cornerback Jalen Ramsey and Packers wideout Davante Adams got into some pregame chirping before their NFC playoff game: “Ramsey, of course, has never been diagnosed with lockjaw.” brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
DEADLINE: Wednesday, February 10th Close-up coloured photos work best. Please email your photo and information to: kate@yoursouthwest.com or text: 1-306-671-0242. $30 (includes GST), by cheque, credit card or e-transfer Your Southwest Media Group Box 727, Kindersley, SK. S0L 1S0
The Oyen Echo
Classifieds
RATES (based on 25 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Thursday noon. 306-463-2211
FEED & SEED
350 bushels of cleaned andante mustard seed. 98% germination. (35 bushel totes) Acadia Valley 403664-0004. FB8p
200 large square oat green feed bales. Approx. 1300 lbs. Acadia Valley 403-6640004. FB8p
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.
Get Well Soon, Herman! from all of us at The Oyen Echo
Zoom AGM
February 3, 2021, 7 PM
Please email Quinton Flint for invite. Quintonf@town.coronation.ab.ca
Happy 90th Birthday Mum
Love from all your Family & Friends
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 FEBRUARY 20th, 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.
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.
FEED AND SEED
LOOKING TO BUY feed barley or feed wheat. Call Gary at 780-674-0673 or Schmidt Livestock at 780-674-2851.
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 18-49-14 W4M, S½ 3-46-11 W4M and NW 32-47-13 W4M. Call Brent Thygesen, b_thygesen@ducks.ca or 780 678-0150.
REAL ESTATE
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.
SERVICES
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ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two op-
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Responsible Grain is a national, voluntary code of practice that allows Canadian grain farmers to demonstrate their care and commitment to the environment. Ted Menzies, a farmer in Alberta, is the executive chair of Responsible Grain, a group developed by farmers and industry experts. The code of practice demonstrates how Canadian farms preserve land, air and water. It incorporates nutrient management, pest and pesticide management, soil and water management and health and well-being. Implementation of the practices will be measured over time using the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops (CRSC) Metrics Platform to promote continuous improvement.
Ted Menzies said, “I’ve been a farmer for over 30 years. Farmers are part of the building process. It’s time for the code of practice to be developed. It’s time for farmers to show that they are acting responsibly. Farmers live in the middle of the environment. We’re on the ground. We depend on the soil to
grow our crops, depend on rainfall, irrigation, on making sure we don’t let our soil become eroded.”
Consultations started in November of 2020 on the CRSC draft code of practice for Canadian grain farmers. The goal of Responsible Grain is to build trust among consumers and grain customers.
Consultations on the draft code began on Nov. 24., but more talks needed to be scheduled as more people began to register. Over 550 registrations were received, 90 percent of which were farmers and producers wanting to provide feedback on what will or will not work on their farm and considerations for the diversity in farming throughout Canada.
The companies and organizations represented on the code committee include Cargill, Viterra, CropLife Canada, Aramark and Ducks Unlimited. Menzies said the code committee’s objective is to find actions farmers can take that will be recognized by supply chain partners and consumers.
Menzies, who has served as an MP for nine years, recalls meeting with
Chinese officials a couple of years ago and discussing restrictions on Canadian canola, which is one example of why the code would be valuable. That is when he realized the importance of showing the protocols that farmers follow in Canada.
It was noted that governments are more likely to put regulations in place where they see a gap. A Code will help prove that there are no gaps. The draft code will include already mandated protocols through federal, provincial and municipal regulations.
“We’re going to listen, and we’re going to learn from what farmers say because if farmers don’t like this, and this isn’t going to work on your farm, and we’ve said this is voluntary, you’re not going to sign up.
So we have to make it, so this is functional,” said Menzies.
Once consultations are complete, the Code Development Committee will review each of the Code Practices in light of the feedback. The input provided during the consultations is critical. It will be
ensure it is practical and widely adoptable by farmers.
Projections are to complete consultations by the end of March of this year. One of the tweets said if farmers write their code and it is endorsed by researchers, suppliers, grain buyers and processors, it could be a solid foundation to work from if the government ever came at farmers with regulations.
WEEK OF JANUARY 24 TO 30, 2021
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: VIRGO, LIBRA AND SCORPIO
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
Sure-Fire Streaming:
The best in TV and film from your living room
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.
LIBRA
BY JORDAN PARKER https://parkerandpictures.wordpress.com/
Superstore – Available On Netflix
I don’t think a sitcom has made me laugh this hard since The Office.
This comedy follows a group of quirky employees day-in, day-out as they work through even weirder customers at a big-box store.
The incredible America Ferrera – of Ugly Betty fame – stars here with an eclectic ensemble cast who you will love (or grow to love) as time goes on.
Three-time Emmy nominee and series creator Justin Spitzer captures the both the agony of a minimum wage job and the little pleasures that get you through your day.
It’s truly a gem of a show, and five seasons dropped on Netflix at the same time. Sounds like you have your weekend set.
Cut Throat City – Available On Netflix
Set in a post-Katrina New Orleans, this high-octane thriller will grip you and not let go.
As people flounder trying to dig themselves out of the wreckage of a broken city, four men go to extreme lengths to make some money.
The childhood friends form an unlikely alliance with a crime syndicate leader to pull off a casino heist, but things go horribly awry and they try to find a way to get out of the mess they’ve put themselves in.
The four central performances are serviceable, but it’s really the incredible talent around them that propels this movie.
With T.I. as a murderous kingpin, Terrence Howard as a mob boss, Ethan Hawke as a crooked politician, and Wesley Snipes as a father trying to protect his
son, the pedigree of this cast is pushed to new heights.
It’s a mile-a-minute thriller directed by none other than Wu-Tang Clan’s RZA, and it’s a directorial effort I won’t soon forget.
Knives Out – Available On Prime Video
This splendid little riff on Clue is viciously funny and a top-notch mystery film, where the ride is just as important as the truth.
When the family patriarch dies during a family reunion, everyone is a suspect.
A detective is brought in to question the difficult family and find some answers.
But nothing is as it seems, and everyone has a motive for getting the old man out of the way.
Writer-director Rian Johnson delivers one of the absolute best movies of 2019, a slick film with a sick sense of humour and an incredible screenplay.
The ensemble cast is top-notch with a heavily-accented Daniel Craig as an inspector leading the charge.
He’s joined by Lakeith Stanfield, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Collette, Chris Evans, Christopher Plummer, Michael Shannon and more in an incredible film. But it’s newcomer Ana de Armas who manages to steal most of the spotlight.
You quite literally can’t go wrong with this film, and anyone 16+ will get a total kick out of it.
The Negotiator – Available On Prime Video Is there really an actor more fun to watch these days than Samuel L. Jackson?
I revisited this 1998 thriller for the first time in nearly 15 years, and it holds up. The Negotiator is an action-packed spectacle, and a huge showcase for Jackson.
WEEK OF JANUARY 31 TO FEBRUARY 6, 2021
THE LUCKIEST SIGNS THIS WEEK: SAGITTARIUS, CAPRICORN AND AQUARIUS
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
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.
LIBRA
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.
Though I’m not in the habit of watching Kevin Spacey fare these days, the work by so many other fantastic film industry folks here makes this worth a recommend.
SCORPIO
Jackson stars as a hostage negotiator who becomes a hostage taker when he suspects Internal Affairs is setting him up for the murder of his partner – who himself was uncovering a conspiracy in the department.
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
As he attempts to prove his innocence, Jackson’s character takes hostages in a government office while he tries to gather evidence, but he’s pitted against fellow negotiator Spacey and cops on the case who might want him dead to keep their own secrets.
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
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.
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.
SAGITTARIUS
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
This is over two hours of pure brilliance, and it’s a masterclass by Samuel L. Jackson. A must-watch 90s flick.
State Of Play – Available On Netflix
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
We don’t get many journalism thrillers these days, but there’s really nothing better than a flick about uncovering a big story.
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.
Maybe I’m biased, but State Of Play is a well-acted, involving thriller that you’ll find yourself pretty invested in.
PISCES
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 recover your strength.
When a congressional aide is murdered, a Washington journalist starts poking around, and his search leads him to an investigation of a college friend, who’s now a government representative.
This is perhaps one of Ben Affleck’s best roles earlier in his career, but he’s no match for Russell Crowe’s grizzled journalist. With Rachel McAdams on-board as a tenacious young reporter, this one has a ton of upside.
It’s a really great thriller and one not enough people saw upon release. Let’s try to fix
now.
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
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.
PISCES
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.
GETTING UP THERE
There is a link death cannot sever; love and remembrance last forever
January - 2020
• Casey Lyn Silbernagel, 62, of Strathmore died January 2.
• Audrey Lucille Banks, 84, of Oyen died January 12.
• Bernice Irene Coates, 93, of Cereal died January 14.
• Marjorie Jean Conlin, 89, of Three Hills died January 21.
February - 2020
• Theodore ‘Ted’ Bernard Anderson, 96, formerly of Buffalo died February 2 in Medicine Hat.
• Jack Everett Norgard, 85, formerly of Claresholm died February 8 in Oyen.
• Wendy Jane Fieldberg, 63, died February 10 in Clearwater, Florida.
• Adam Hertz, 87, died February 13 in Rocky Mountain House.
• Joan Cecily Lynn (née McKenzie), 91, of Medicine Hat died February 19.
• Lloyd Russell McCellan, 88, died February 23 in Edmonton.
• Clair P. Cooper, 72, died February 29 in Oyen.
March - 2020
• Grant Shuttleworth, 88, of Balzac died March 21.
• Phyllis Lorraine Stauble (née Kidd), 95, died March 22 in Calgary.
April - 2020
• Dorothy Evelyn Solberg (Emmer-
Obituary
son), 87, died April 2 in Hanna.
• Dorothy Laverde Kelly, 94, of Chinook died April 14.
• Gordon Harvey Taylor, 81, of Calgary died April 17.
• Allan Duncan Munroe, 85, of Medicine Hat died April 20.
• Marguerite Patricia Edwards, 91, of Oyen died April 23.
• Winry Ianthe Niwa died April 28 in Edmonton.
May - 2020
• Walter Huzar, 99, died May 4 in Calgary.
• Terry Allen Hanewich, 67, of Oyen died May 15.
• Velma Margaret Bakken, 98, of Medicine Hat died May 19.
• Hugh Alexander McDonald, 99, died May 20.
• Sandra (Sandy) Violet Hiller, 74, died May 27.
June - 2020
• Mary Buck, 91, of Hanna died June 11.
• Howard Jones, 95, of Calgary died June 17.
• Chester Leroy Neilson, 99, of Acadia Valley died June 20.
July - 2020
• Norma MacDonald, 63, died in High River July 1.
• Grant Pederson, died in Oyen Big Country Hospital July 23, four days
1937 - 2021
With the deepest sense of sorrow and loss, our family announces the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, and brother - George Herbert Kolodychuk at the age of 83 years on January 16th, 2021.
George was born on November 29th, 1937 in Comox, BC. Throughout his life, George lived in many communities as an Alberta Wheat Pool agent including many great years in Oyen. He retired in Vegreville in 1991 and was most recently living in the countryside near Cherhill, Alberta. Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife Lorraine; daughter Cheryl (Randy Lovich); son Terry; son Garry (JoAnn Scory); grandchildren: Erin (Jc), Kristen (Trent), Shelby-lyn (Toby), Jessica (Greg), Jonathan, Haley, step-grandchildren Alyssa (Marc), Michelle (Kyle) and great-grandchildren: Luca, Elena, Theo, William, Jayce, Leah, Karter and Liam.
George was predeceased by his parents; Stephen and Teresa, siblings: Evelyn and Melvin, brotherin-law Dale and his grandson Braden.
before his 71 birthday.
• John William Lyle (Bud) Wiese, 94, of Barrhead died July 15.
Aug. - 2020
• Vera Slater, 98, of Loverna died August 10.
• Kathleen Myrtle Munroe, 88, of Calgary died August 18.
Sept. - 2020
• Shirley Ruth Gattey, 92, of Consort died September 2.
• Laurel “Laurie” Watson, of West Montrose, Ont., died September 3.
• Kenneth Gordon Marr, 66, of Lacombe died September 6.
• Alice May Soldan (née Brant), 96, died September 11.
• Rose Elizabeth Josephine Nichols (née Miller), 87, of Oyen died September 14.
• Clarence “Perky” Standish of Calgary died September 17.
• George Edward Morley Sarvis, 92, of Bindloss died September 23.
Oct. - 2020
• Jacquelynn Mary Lowe, 63, of Loverna died October 6.
• Richard Kanegawa, 90, of Calgary died October 8.
• Sylvia Wiechnik, 95, of Oyen died October 9.
• Hilda Marie Good, 95, of Oyen died October 11.
• Frederick James “Jim” Park, 77, of Acadia Valley died October 12.
• Valentine ‘Val’ Sol Getz, 86, of Medicine Hat died October 25.
• Hildegund Klothilde Mundt (née Schiemann), 85, of Sibbald died October 28.
• Doreen Helen Scheuer, 84, formerly of Oyen died October 30 in Medicine Hat.
• Sara May Elsasser, 82, of Medicine Hat died October 31.
Nov. - 2020
• Richard Lloyd Brumwell, 74, of Loverna died November 7.
• Violet (Vi) Ann (née Martin) Ward, 82, of Calgary died November 8.
• Florence Rosie Steiert, 93, of Calgary died November 12.
• Alan Ray Harris, 86, of Sayward died November 28.
Dec. - 2020
• Eva Elizabeth Ross of Medicine Hat died December 6.
• Ron Valentine Stolz, 82, of Acadia Valley died December 7.
• Arthur “Bud” Turnbull, 93, of Cereal died December 7.
• Nelson Bingeman, 84, of Esther died in Big Country Hospital December 15.
Compiled by Diana Walker
SACRED HEART RC OYEN
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
ST. MARY’S RC, ACADIA VALLEY
Thursdays 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass 9:00 a.m. Rectory 403-664-3603. newtonrodrigues17@outlook.com
AHS, local students expand Sleeve the Stigma campaign
South Zone initiative aims to encourage Albertans to seek help for mental illness
MEDICINE HAT – Alberta Health Services (AHS) is partnering with Grade 1-12 students from across the eastern half of AHS South Zone to expand a campaign aiming at reducing stigma attached to mental illness.
The Sleeve the Stigma campaign, which launched in the city two years ago to coincide with Bell Let’s Talk Day, involves students putting handmade, positive mental health messages on coffee cup sleeves. These messages remind Albertansmental health challenges can impact anyone and it’s always OK to seek help.
This year, more than 500 sleeves have been distributed to local coffee shops, with the initiative now expanding to Redcliff, Bow Island, Oyen, Brooks, Tilley, Rosemary, Duchess, Bassano and Taber. The sleeves will be used during this year’s
Bell Let’s Talk Day on Jan. 28.
Show off your sleeve by posting #SleeveTheStigma and #bellletstalk on your social media accounts and continue the conversation around mental health. With every use of the hashtag #bellletstalk, five cents will go towards mental health initiatives.
Educating yourself and focusing on people, rather than labels, are keys for combating stigma. A helpful way to recognize attitudes and actions that contribute to the stigma of mental health conditions is to use the STOP criteria, developed by the Canadian Mental Health Association:
• Stereotypes people with mental health conditions.
• Trivializes or belittles people with mental health conditions and/or the condition itself.
• Offends people with mental health conditions
by insulting them.
• Patronizes people with mental health conditions by treating them as less than others.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
Amanda Yake-Kovitch, Wellness Coach, Mental Health Capacity Building for AHS, provided the following photos of her interaction with the students at Warren Peers School in Acadia Valley and Oyen Public School.
Sawyer Smigelski
Alyssa Anderson
Finley Girletz and Maddox McLean
Peyton Benson
The Oyen Daycare completed their bottle drive in Cereal. It was a huge success! Thank you to all who donated their time, bottles, and monetary donations to support the opening of our new daycare.