Oyen Eagles prepare for playoff run
The Oyen Eagles only have one game left in the regular season, but they’re preparing to make an impact in the playoffs.
They play the Settler Imperials on February 19, and the following weekend they’ll be in playoff contention. Though the Eagles lost their previous game 6-4
against the Provost Combines, Coach Levi Westerlund says it was the best of their year.
“It was really an incredible effort. We were short some players, and they had a full roster. It was close to a barn-burner, and I was happy with how it went. They’re the first-place team in the league,” he said.
“We had some guys out for work and injuries. Some of them had wear-and-tear, and a few have
shoulder injuries. Luckily, some are coming back for the playoffs.”
Westerlund says they need to keep doing what they’ve been doing, as the team has been building momentum.
“No one likes losing, but our effort was there in the last game. We were doing the little things right. We came up short, but we played well,” he said.
He says a few things led to an incredible effort against the Combines.
“We took care of our zone first. We have had issues all year with not doing the work in our D-zone and having odd-man breaks against because of it,” he said.
“This past game, we did all the simple things well. We got pucks deep, and when we do the right things, we can be tough to play against.”
For Westerlund, a big thing is the team has been finding better chemistry than ever before.
“It’s a working man’s league, and sometimes guys miss two or three games at a time. But as time has gone on, everyone has been doing better together,” he said. “We definitely have received a jolt from the new rookies, and they’ve injected some zip for sure.”
The last game was an initiation night, which saw four to six-year-olds come out on the ice. The team saw an incredible turnout for it and were happy to be a part of the community.
“It felt so good to have the kids on the ice. It helps to show younger kids what they have to look forward to,” said forward Jarvis Smigelski.
“People on the team all have kids, nieces or nephews who did Initiation Night. It was amazing that my daughter did it, and I loved the experience.”
Smigelski says getting into the season took a bit due to COVID-19 and other factors.
“The guys just needed to work a little bit and get back in shape. We are in the right direction headed to the playoffs, and that’s where it matters,” he said.
He also thought the Combines game was the best 60 minutes the team played all year.
“We skated hard and supported the puck well. We had a good chance to win against a powerhouse team,” he said. “We fell a bit short of the win, but I’m so happy about the way we played.”
He echoes his coach’s statements about how to be successful during an important playoff run next weekend.
“We need to work on the defensive side of our game and keep pucks out of the net. Scoring hasn’t been an issue, but we need to support along the wall,” he said.
“It’s a 200-foot game, and we need to be defensive-minded first and foremost. If we want to win, that’s the route we have to take.”
Back Row (L-R): Lane Swenson, Jarvis Smigelski, Brayden Smigelski. Front Row: Emmett Smigelski and Blakely Smigelski.
JORDAN PARKER
Your Southwest Media Group
Acadia Valley holds open house at new hall
The community of Acadia Valley is happy to have a new hall in their hamlet. It replaces the previous building which was built in 1941. The new structure was made possible because of the province of Alberta and the federal government’s investment in Canada’s Infrastructure Plan (ICIP) Grant. The groundbreaking had taken
place in April of 2021, and Armour Building Systems of Brooks was the lead contractor on the project.
Construction of the building was completed in early January of 2022, with occupancy permits obtained on February 11th. The hall is maintained by the Acadia Valley Community Club, with support from the Acadia Valley and District Recreation Club
and the MD of Acadia.
This new hall offers the community the ability to host bigger events.
Jason Wallsmith, Chief Administrative Officer at the municipal office, said the new hall seats 250, compared to the old facility, which could seat approximately 150 people for a meal.
Yolanda Kuhn, a member of the Acadia Valley and District Recreation Club, described the hall’s
kitchen as “absolutely beautiful”. The facility also includes the main hall, storage room, meeting room, walk-in cooler and the bar, for which the Recreation Club is responsible.
On Wednesday, February 16th, an open house was held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with approximately thir ty people coming out to see the hall. An irrigation meeting was held prior to the open house with 70 attendees, and a public meeting followed with 75 people attending.
Wallsmith extended a special thank you to Kyle Meers, who drafted the initial design concept for the hall and extend ed thanks to the many individuals who donated time, money, and support to the project.
Just a couple notes this week. As everyone knows, there is a great lack of news because no events have taken place.
Buffalo Ag Society, in lieu of a Valentine Dance, held a raffle again as last year. The lucky winners of the draws were Jenny Paetz of Oyen and Raelynn Howe of Buffalo. Prizes were trips or cash if winner preferred. The Ag Society expresses sincere appreciation to all the buyers of tickets in support of their endeavors.
Dale Monkman, Neal Howe, Robert Fauth and Perry Yake took part in the memorial bonspiel in Oyen on the Feb 5 weekend. Sadly, they were not the winners. Better luck next time, guys.
Approximately 70 people attended an irrigation meeting at the new hall in Acadia Valley on February 16.
a bit of history humour for you: “Question: Where was the Constitution Act of 1982 signed? Answer: At the bottom.”
Premier Brian Peckford, a former Premier of Newfoundland, is the only surviving drafter and signatory of the 1982 Constitution and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. The media is remaining relatively silent about Peckford’s recent actions. He is fil-
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
A short history lesson
ing a lawsuit in the Federal Court against the Minister of Transport, to strike down mandatory requirements for air travellers
The former premier shared a short history lesson, noting that for a period of seventeen months, beginning In 1981, ten premiers and one Prime Minister - Pierre Trudeau, began negotiations to put in a bill of rights in the constitution. Midway in the process the Prime
Minister stopped negotiating and decided to go to House of Commons and pass his own law and unilaterally make his own Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Peckford, along with the premiers of Nova Scotia, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, B.C., Alberta and PEI promptly told him he wasn’t allowed to do it, and they went to court against the Prime Minister. Eight premiers were opposed; however the
premiers from Ontario and New Brunswick sided with the Prime Minister.
In Sept. of 1981 the Supreme Court of Canada ruled in their favour and told the Prime Minister his actions were unconstitutional. “It was a rocky road to get where we wanted to get,” Peckford said. “The Prime Minister was forced back to the table.”
In Nov. 1981 they negotiated the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and nine provinces and the Prime Minister signed it in 1982. “It was a national document; it wasn’t a federal document. It represents the nation,” Peckford concluded.
“In 1981 I made a proposal to the provinces for a Charter of Rights and Freedoms and a Patriation Act. It was the one that was ratified the next day to become the Constitution Act of 1982, in which your rights as individual Canadians were protected,” he explained. Nine provinces and the Prime Minister signed it. It was a national document; it represents the nation,” he said.
Section 15 of the Charter says every Canadian, from Prince Rupert to Bonavista, from Niagara to Iqaluit (the capital of Nunavut) has the right to
equality before the law.
Now Peckford has had a twenty-page document drawn up, which is clearly written and very concise. It lists Peckford as the primary plaintiff (applicant) along with five other Canadians.
Each of the five Canadian citizens tells their own story regarding why they need to fly.
“When you go to court, you have to be very specific, and this law suit does that,” Peckford explained. He said he chose the mobility clause because every Canadian is affected by it.
It’s a Judicial Review lawsuit, which means Peckford is seeking a rescinding of these rules.
“We want it to be declared that these measures are not consistent with the Charter,” he said. “Section 6 gives you the right to travel anywhere in Canada, or leave Canada, and Section 7 gives you the right to life, liberty, and the security of the person.”
“The Government of Canada is trying to say that they can override those rights through Section 1. Section 1 was to only be used in war, insurrection, or the threat or peril of the state,” he continued. “It wasn’t to be used to try to combat a virus for which there is a
99 percent recovery rate. That’s not a threat to the state.”
Peckford is asking for disclosure from the cabinet of all information relied upon by the Minister of Transport informing the decision that travel should be restricted. “They didn’t have data to prove the legitimacy of the travel ban,” he said. He also posed other questions ... Who did the government consult with? Where did they get the information? Did they go outside their circle to seek information? Peckford noted that in a normal legislative process, this is all made transparent, but it wasn’t in this case.
“That’s why most of the world doesn’t have democracy; it’s a tough thing to sustain. You can create it, but sustaining it is very difficult.”
You can reach me at joanjanzen@yahoo.com
The bodies are piling up. Your silence is compounding it.
I believe this is an immediate wakeup call to a long unspoken crisis. I spoke with one medical professional trying to get help, only to have him shrug with a banal look as he said, “I feel sorry for the wives and girlfriends in this community.”
In not as many blunt words, he was telling me that a large percentage of our husbands and fathers are drunks and will continue to be because of the “old boys school” mentality; it’s the way it always has been in small farming communities. With no apology to the doctor, I WILL NOT BE SILENT!
I hope I might hit a nerve or two, but the truth hurts, and only when we feel pain do we decide to do something about it.
There is a problem, and no one will admit it because they are all part of it. I’m not sure when it became okay to watch abuse happen in front of you. But you don’t say anything because “it’s not my place”.... or, more aptly, if I don’t acknowledge it, then it isn’t happening. When DO you step up? When you see the bruises? When you watch the punch? When the cast is on broken bones? When your friend is charged with domestic abuse? Does it only matter if it’s physical abuse? Do you watch and listen to verbal abuse and say nothing? You won’t see the bruises on the heart or the broken spirit unless you actually LOOK! Is someone withdrawing? Do you notice that a person isn’t participating in events and gatherings? When was the last time they were in public? I’m going to say no; you don’t. Because you don’t WANT to see it, it would mean that someone you know is abusing someone they care about. But it can’t be true, because there’s no way anyone in your social circle would do that -- would they? Have you heard the sarcasm in somebody’s voice when they talk to their partner? Do you listen to them shut the person down before they even finish speaking? Have you heard them raise their voice unnecessarily when they disagree with a suggestion?
Most people would see or hear that and just assume it’s rude. It is rude. It is abuse. And if you don’t defend the person or say to your friend that the tone is inappropriate or unkind, then the person feels they have been condoned to act like that in public and then justifies that they can continue the same or worse behind closed doors. Being blind is not being a friend. What if you saw a friend doing coke or heroin? Is it ok, because you do it together once or twice a week? Would you sit back and watch, saying it’s only a little hit? Do you know that your friend is doing at another buddy’s place a couple times a week? Do you know that when someone drops by the house to visit, they take another hit (or more)? Where is your responsibility? Sure, it’s your friend’s choice to live that lifestyle, but are you invested enough to realize your friend is killing himself? Will you be able to live with yourself when the police show up and tell the spouse that your friend has overdosed? Suppose it was alcohol and not drugs - is that any less dangerous? Does the loved one not feel the pain to watch you enable your friend being an alcoholic? They fight alone to save their partner, to save the relationship, while you pretend not to watch. Most friends would want good health and a happy relationship for their best friends. Instead, a community covers for each other with excuses and justifies that “It’s just the way we are.”
The silent suffering is screaming out for someone to say, “THAT’S ENOUGH.” You might only witness it for an hour or two, but the partner lives with that person 24/7. Each verbal barb, each text “come have a drink” is like a bullet fired into the heart of a loved one - but the bulletproof vest wears out eventually. Something in a person breaks. But no one notices because they refused to face the fact it was happening. Silence is the killer, denial is the weapon, and the bodies are piling up.
- Anonymous
Report from Battle River-Crowfoot MP Damien Kurek
4945 - 50 St. Camrose, AB T4V 1P9 Text 403-575-5625 or toll free 1-800-665-4358
Email: damien.kurek@parl.gc.ca or social media @dckurek
Rising costs continue to Burden Canadians
In this week’s column, I believe it is deeply important to address the affordability crisis Canada is facing. After six years of Liberal economic policies, we are facing crushing inflationary pressures, rampant and systemic issues in our supply chains and a fiscal situation that is making life less affordable for Canadians of today and the future. I hope to address a few of these concerns. Inflation is rising at the fastest rate in 30 years. This increases the cost of everything from groceries to fuel. Although this challenge is not unique to Canada, fiscal policies play a big role. When the supply of money is increased, it decreases the value of that money. Conservatives have repeatedly called on the Liberals to spend responsibly long before COVID-19. Some of Canada’s highest spending took place prior to COVID, and during the pandemic, an additional $600 billion dollars has been spent. Although spending was needed to ensure Canadians could get through these challenging times, we have seen that it was done with little oversight adding to inflationary pressures.
Canadians have been hit hard by the rapid surge in food prices. The 12th edition of Canada’s Food Price Report released last December predicts the average Canadian family of four will pay an extra $966 for food in 2022. The Liberals’ poor legislative choices hit even deeper than what is displayed in economic data. Trudeau’s proposed mandate to reduce nitrogen fertilizer usage by 30% will only make this worse.
Farmers have a lot of adversity to overcome, and the carbon tax has exacerbated the problems they face. Running equipment, keeping a barn warm in the winter, and drying grain all takes a lot of energy. The carbon tax penalizes farmers and passes on the extra costs to Canadians at the grocery
store. Like farmers, the heating bills of Canadians have sky-rocketed because of the carbon tax. Over the last few months, many of you have expressed concern about your heating bills and how much the carbon tax has hurt their ability to heat their home. Additionally, we see increases in payroll deductions and other taxes that are reducing takehome pay at a time when the dollar is becoming less valuable. I vow to fight against the carbon tax, and for the affordable cost of living for Canadians.
Canada has been in economic disarray since the beginning of the COVID19 pandemic. We have been subjected to more than two years of lockdowns and mandates. Despite having one of the highest vaccination rates in the world, Trudeau is still standing behind strict mandates that are increasingly out of touch with experts’ advice and is resulting in Canadians not being able to fully participate in the economy. We need a path to normal and the ability to live our lives again.
Canada’s Conservatives will fight for your and our nation’s fiscal future, and for a responsible Government that puts Canadians interests first.
Finally, a note about the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada. Recently, the Conservative Caucus voted for a change in leadership. I would like to thank the Hon. Erin O’Toole, his wife Rebecca, and their children Mollie and Jack for their service to Canada. Serving as the leader of Canada’s Official Opposition is an immensely difficult duty and I thank Erin for his work. When it comes to the future of the leadership of the Conservative Party, I will be sure to update constituents when more details are available. In the interim, it will be led capably by Manitoba MP, the Hon. Candice Bergen. It is an honour to serve as your MP and to fight for you in our capital.
Conservative Party leader must prioritize balanced budgets
BY FRANCO TERRAZZANO Canadian Taxpayers Federation
Balanced budgets mean less government debt for Canadian kids and grandkids to pay back, less money wasted on interest charges and fewer tax hikes.
At best, the last Conservative Party leader paid lip service to balancing the budget. The next Conservative leader needs to make balancing the budget and bringing Canada back to financial sanity a top priority.
Based on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s last budget, the federal government isn’t expected to balance the books until 2070, according to data from the Parliamentary Budget Officer.
That would cost taxpayers $3.8 trillion just to pay interest charges on the debt over those five decades of deficits. Those are trillions of dollars we can’t use to hire more nurses, reduce class sizes or leave in taxpayers’ pockets because they’re going to the bond fund managers
on Bay Street through interest payments.
Each Canadian’s individual share of the federal debt is currently about $30,000. By 2070, that could reach $67,000. That’s a huge tab that the government is piling on the backs of future generations.
What did previous Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole do to stop this tsunami of red ink?
O’Toole wanted to spend about $50 billion more than Trudeau’s last budget.
“The Conservatives proposed government spending in this fiscal year that was higher than what we proposed,” said Trudeau’s finance minister, Chrystia Freeland.
Other than ending the government’s media bailout, O’Toole’s answer to Canada’s spending problem was to turn to remote work for government employees. That’s it. Balance the budget one Zoom meeting at a time.
O’Toole said he’d balance the budget within a decade.
But how could he balance the budget decades before current projections while spending tens of billions more? O’Toole’s math didn’t add up.
The next Conservative Party leader needs to offer a better vision.
Analysis from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation shows the federal government could balance its budget in 202324 by returning spending to pre-pandemic levels of 2018-19, adjusted upward for inflation and population growth.
That’s balancing the budget by returning spending to alltime highs. The federal government spent more money in 2018-19 – before the pandemic or any cross-country recession – than it did during any single year during World War II.
How would the federal government find those savings?
With the government’s massive overspending, finding savings in every area of the budget should be like finding water in the ocean.
The government will have to do the little things right. That means no more spending thousands of dollars on sex toy shows in Germany, or on marijuana simulation kits for the military or on red carpet galas for communications bureaucrats.
The government will also have to do the big things right. No more giving 312,825 federal government bureaucrats pay raises during a pandemic while their neighbours lose their jobs and businesses.
No more giving businesses like the Ford Motor Company $295 million. Trudeau has announced more than $18 billion in corporate welfare since 2017. No more increasing the blank cheque that some premiers receive through equalization by $1 billion every year for ever. And no more forcing struggling taxpayers to give the CBC $1.4 billion per year.
Taxpayers expect leadership at the top. That means MPs need to reverse the multiple pay raises they’ve given themselves during the pandemic. Political parties should be forced to repay the $3.7 million they took through the wage subsidy that was meant to help businesses during the pandemic. And former governors general shouldn’t be able to expense taxpayers for more than $200,000 every year for the rest of their lives and up to six months after their death. There’s still ample fat left to cut in Ottawa. The next Conservative leader needs to make balanced budgets a top priority.
Davidson shares her knowledge with OMHA
Mel Davidson, head coach of the gold medal-winning 2006 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Olympics Canadian women’s team, has been offering training and coaching sessions to the Oyen Minor Hockey Association (OMHA). During last fall’s Online Fundraising Auction, Davidson offered to donate coaching and training sessions, both in-person and via zoom meetings, and her donation generated $2,000 towards operating expenses.
Over the past three weeks, OMHA coaches, parents, board members and players have participated in these sessions. A two-part in-person session focused on developing coaching skills, and additional sessions instructed OMHA parents on growth and development of their hockey players. The executive of OMHA received training on running a successful association, and Davidson’s training also covered coaching strategies and other aspects of the sport.
Two of the sessions focused on the many opportunities available in female hockey and the positive aspects of keeping an active female program in minor hockey associations.
The final session included a few draws for two hockey jerseys and numerous posters of Canadian women hockey players from the present and past. Alice Tessie and Macey Lyster were the lucky winners of jerseys.
Both parents and their children appreciated every moment of time and knowledge donated by Mel Davidson. She is not only talented but has the ability to effectively share her knowledge with others.
BOOK Notes
by Tricia Fischbuch By Jane Kitchen
TOWN OF OYEN LIBRARY
ADULT FICTION: Steal by James Patterson
NON-FICTION: Clean(ish) : eat (mostly) clean, live (mainly) clean, and unlock your body’s natural ability to self-clean by Gin Stephens
Letters to the sons of society : a father’s invitation to love, honestly, and freedom by Shaka Senghor
CURBSIDE SERVICE OPTION: The library is currently open as usual, but we have added a curbside service option as well. If you prefer to pick up materials this way, please call ahead or email to let us know which day to put them out.
Learn how to manage stress in challenging times
EDMONTON – Albertans looking for ways to identify and manage stress are invited to participate in a free online workshop facilitated by Alberta Health Services (AHS).
The workshops for managing stress in challenging times comes in two parts, both led by AHS professionals.
Part 1 of the interactive workshop includes a basic discussion of stress and looks at different ways to manage stress. Participants will come away with an understanding of the impact of emotions on the body plus an action plan to address their stress.
Thursday, March 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday May 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Monday June 6 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Part 2 involves discussing perception, decision-making and communication using techniques taught in Part 1. (Completion of Part 1 is essential prior to taking Part 2.)
Wednesday, Feb. 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Thursday, April 7 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Tuesday, May 3 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday June 1 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Monday June 20 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
For more information on the upcoming courses, email hpdip.mh.earlyid@ahs.ca
Whitecap Resources Inc. is currently looking for Summer Students in our WCSK (Kindersley/Kerrobert/Dodsland), area.
The work term will run from May 2022 to August 2022. This time frame is flexible for starting earlier or ending later.
These positions may include conducting general oilfield maintenance, operation of oil wells & facilities and engineering support.
Candidates should be enrolled in a post-secondary program with preference given to engineering, technology and environmental sciences. Proof of enrolment is required.
Safety training will be provided to successful candidates. A valid driver’s license is required.
Please send a cover letter and resume to: Kayla Flanagan (WCSK) kayla.flanagan@wcap.ca
23rd Annual Acadia Valley Ice to Dice
March 1 - 6, 2022 - FIRST EVENT IN THE NEW HALL!
TUESDAY, MARCH 1
Socialize Night. Come & play some games & have a drink!
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2
Crib Night & Fundraiser Supper
Sign up for the tournament & skip cooking supper to support a local fundraising group!
THURSDAY, MARCH 3
Wing Night ($10/Dozen)
FRIDAY, MARCH 4
Poker & Fundraiser Supper
Sign up for the poker tournament & skip cooking supper to support The Acadia Valley ECS!
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
Draws, Dance & Fundraiser Supper - All Winners will be announced. Skip cooking supper to support a local fundraising group & DJ Philly P to follow.
SUNDAY, MARCH 6
Come out and watch the finals!
WANT TO WIN SOME PRIZES? “The Cans” Ladies Package Pick a Square Number Board
NEW Spin The Wheel Daily 50/50
Daily Poker Hands
Children Welcome until 8:00 p.m.
Come Enjoy the Fun!
You’re Welcome Any Night!
Journeyman Agricultural Technicians and 3rd & 4th Year Apprentices RME IS HIRING FULL TIME PERMANENT in Kindersley & Oyen.
We offer an exceptional compensation structure with benefits including health, disability, and dental coverage, incremental wage increases per company policies, work boot and tool allowance, six personal days.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT
36 locations in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Apply online or email your resume to: hrapplications@rockymtn.com
Mel
JOAN JANZEN
Your Southwest Media Group
Acadia Valley News
By Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com - call or text 403-664-0582
It’s been cooler this week and we’ve even had a bit of snow. Last weeks warm weather did a number on the ice at the Arena and made a mess of the streets and sidewalks in town. The ice is back in good shape and the streets and sidewalks were pretty well dry until it started snowing again. I hope we get some more snow this month, we could definitely use the moisture.
Sending well wishes to Freddi Skappak who is in the hospital in Oyen.
February 17, 2022
The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department held a moment of silence for fallen Castor Firefighter Stephen Rayfield. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all members of The Castor Fire Department. We’ve had some exciting news this week. We received the occupancy permit for the new hall. All the clubs have been busy getting organized and moving into the new building. The M.D. held an informational meeting for the Irrigation project
The Oyen Law Office of Niblock & compaNy llp
on Wednesday February 16th with around 70 in attendance. An open house was also held on February 16th. The Ice to Dice will be the first official event held in the new hall from March 1st – 6th.
Congratulations to Bruce Simmons who won last month’s 50/50 of $240! The next draw will take place on March 14th. You can purchase your tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or a Rec. Club member.
The Rec. Club recently purchased a Sparx Skate Sharpener for the Arena. You can have your skates sharpened for $5 during regular Arena hours.
Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with a quote from Seneca. “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
Overview:
INDUSTRIAL MECHANIC
Teine Energy is an oil and gas company and is one of Canada’s largest privately held energy companies. We look for ways to evolve, improve, and innovate our approach to every aspect of our work. Teine strives to deliver sector-leading returns while supplying the world with environmental and ethically sourced energy. We enrich our communities through the contributions and development of our extraordinarily talented people, and we are always on the lookout for top people for opportunities, such as the following listed below.
Teine Energy Ltd has an immediate position opening for a full time Industrial Mechanic for the Kindersley Area. The successful applicant will report directly to the Maintenance Foreman.
Duties:
• Small Engine repairs and service (Ranges from small water pump Honda motors all the way up to GM 8.1L)
• Pump Jack inspections and repairs (need to be able to climb and work at heights)
• All types of Pump Repairs and Servicing
• Air Compressor Repairs and Servicing
• Cleaning, parts stocking, maintenance of area maintenance shops
• Monthly cost tracking of parts or supplies bought
• Working on computer for safety training, daily work orders on our maintenance system, emails
• Some gas compression service and repairs
Required Qualifications and Skills:
• This is an hourly contract position
• Company must be Incorporated
• 9 days on, 5 days off (Minimum 9 hours/day)
• Minimum 5 Years of maintenance and mechanical experience
• Journeyman in heavy duty, gas compression or automotive an asset as well as pump maintenance and overhaul experience
• Basic computer skills required with good understanding of Microsoft Office
• Must have effective communication skills, be organized, able to work alone with minimum supervision
• Must supply own truck with tools, generator or inverter, air compressor, cell phone with good data plan and laptop
• Will need to have H2S, First Aid/CPR, Fall Protection safety tickets up to date before starting
Please apply online and submit your resume to www.teine-energy.com/careers
We appreciate the interest of all applicants, however, only those candidates to be interviewed will be contacted.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Proposed Bylaw 884-22
Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act (MGA), The Town of Oyen intends to consider a proposed amendment to Land Use Bylaw 826-13. The purpose of the proposed amendment is to redistrict the subject property from Agricultural District (a) to Industrial District (I) as seen on the map below.
PROPOSED LAND USE BYLAW AMENDMENT
BYLAW 884-22
Legal: SW-3-28-W4
Redesignate to: Industrial (I)
A public hearing for Bylaw No. 884-22 will be held in The Town of Oyen office at 201 Main Street, Oyen, AB, on March 7th, 2022 commencing at 7:30 p.m. Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaw.
In light of COVID-19, The Town of Oyen is also providing a method for online participation. If you wish to attend online, you will need to register by 4:30 p.m. March 7, 2022 by contacting Town of Oyen Office at 403-664-3511 or by email projmgr@oyen.ca. A virtual link to the meeting will be provided to you.
Written comments may be delivered to Town of Oyen, PO Box 260, Oyen, AB Canada T0J 2J0 or emailed to projmgr@oyen.ca; submissions will be received up to Monday, March 7, 2022 at 4:30pm.
The proposed Bylaw 884-22 can be reviewed online at www.townofoyen.com, or copies may be picked up Monday through Friday at The Town of Oyen Office at 201 Main St, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0 from 8:30- 4:30 pm.
This notice is given pursuant to Sections 606 and 692 of the Municipal Government Act. Debbie Kovitch, Acting CAO
R. Barry Miskuski, John F. Stodalka, Jeffrey J. Neumann, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Hermann, Bryce R. Farrell,
Folkersen
Acadia Valley’s New hall.
The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department held a moment of silence for fallen Castor Firefighter Stephen Rayfield. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and all members of The Castor Fire Department.
Farmers enrol in drone school
to make this available to our farming community.
When you hear about ground school, flight manoeuvres and acquiring a pilot’s certificate, one usually assumes these are referring to planes. However, Great Plains College Kindersley campus is providing instruction in all those areas at their two-day Ag Drone School for farmers and agronomists on March 15th and 16th.
Region Manager of Great Plains College, Fritz Eckstein, said the college is partnering with LandView Drones, based out of Edmonton. The company sells drones and conducts drone schools; however, this is the first time they have partnered with a college. It’s also the first time Great Plains College has hosted a drone school.
“We have the contacts and marketing available
We are very pleased to host it,” he said. “Drones are becoming increasingly popular as tools for farmers, so we thought it would be a good idea. In Asian countries, they use drones for seeding and fertilizing. It’s becoming increasingly popular and also is becoming more affordable. It’s not just targeted for the farming community. Anyone interested in drones can enrol, including those in the oil and gas industry, hunters and ranchers.”
It’s a popular course amongst farmers these days. Once mastered, the drone advantage is obvious, showing things which aren’t visible from the ground. It will tell you whether you have healthy or unhealthy crops, whether crops are trampled, whether there’s damage from frost or hail. Drones pinpoint
Bud Herbert Master Electrician, Red Seal Instrumentation PO Box 193, Oyen, AB T0J 2J0
Cell: 403-664-9637
buds_e_i_services@yahoo.com Office: 403-676-2162 Fax: 403-676-2152
issues, so farmers only need to treat problem areas with herbicides or pesticides. That not only saves money; it’s also easier on the environment. Drones are used to check on the health of livestock, which saves time. As technology advances, the demand for drones will increase.
The course’s handson instruction includes a Tello drone for practice at home and in-class instruction on operating an unmanned aircraft safely and legally. Drones can be used in 101 ways, including finding, monitoring and counting livestock and spraying by drone. Discussion on business models will include costs and insurance.
Participants will fly through a series of practice indoor flights before venturing outdoors to operate the drone, taking turns as pilots and visual observers. They’ll be versed in best practices in an emergency and learn about maintenance with a focus on battery management.
Students not only take basic ground school instruction but also take the Transport Canada online test for their Basic Pilot’s Certificate. They learn about Canadian
Aviation regulations and airspace restrictions in their area.
As of mid-February, Eckstein said they had already met their minimum enrolment requirements, so he encouraged people to enrol quickly. “The cost is quite reasonable,” he noted. And if it proves to be successful, the course will also be brought to a different college location in the future.
JOAN JANZEN
Your Southwest Media Group
A beautifully serene landscape scene adorns a memorial wall in the entry of Big Country Hospital. Dating back to April 1, 1996, each person on this wall has had a donation made in their memory. No set amount is needed to have a name on the wall, which was created and is maintained through a grant from AHS. Tax deductible donations are always welcome and can be mailed to Box 1, Oyen, Alberta T0J 2J0, by e-transfer at oyenhealthfoundation@outlook.com or in-person at the front office of Big Country Hospital 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Monday to Friday.
Oyen & District Health Care FoundationEnhancing Health Care for Over 25 Years
Established in 1995 as Oyen Hospital Foundation, notification was received April 1, 1996, to officially be renamed Oyen & District Health Care Foundation attaining charitable government status.
There have been many dedicated trustees over the years, and it is important to focus on what these individuals have done collectively. Approximately $1,045,800 have funded various projects and pieces of equipment in both Big Country Hospital and Community Health Services. Careful consideration was given to each request presented to the board to ensure that the lives of patients, clients, residents, staff and physicians would benefit.
Although all the purchases are very important and too numerous to mention, some of the most noteworthy include:
• The creation of a courtyard for the enjoyment of the LTC residents and their families.
• Duet bikes for the therapeutic recreation biking program.
• Furnishing of a palliative care suite.
• Susie Q Hot Meal Carts to enhance meal delivery and resident satisfaction. Currently, revenue is received through an annual fall mail-out campaign, memorial and general donations, casinos, and an AHS organized staff lottery. Generous support is also welcomed from many community services clubs helping to purchase numerous beds, oxygen concentrators and stretchers, just to name a few. It should also be noted that all administrative costs are covered by a grant from AHS and do not come out of donations.
Safety is our
Kenney government’s gas tax cut provides needed help to taxpayers
EDMONTON: The Canadian Taxpayers Federation is applauding the Kenney government’s decision to pause the provincial fuel tax while oil prices are soaring. Removing the provincial fuel tax will save taxpayers 13 cents per litre on gasoline.
“The Kenney government has stepped up to the plate to help taxpayers who are struggling with record gas prices,” says Kevin Lacey Alberta Director with the CTF. “Eliminating the provincial gas tax is a great way to give taxpayers a break.”
The Alberta government’s gas tax cut will take effect on April 1.
Gasoline prices include 10 cents a litre in federal gas tax, 13 cent provincial gas tax, five per cent GST and 8.8 cent carbon tax. At today’s prices, taxes make up approximately 41 cents of the pump price or about 25 per cent.
The federal government is increasing the carbon tax from 11 cents a litre on April 1.
“Premier Jason Kenney has made the first move and now the ball is in the Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s to court to do the right thing and cut the carbon tax to protect taxpayers,” said Lacey.
This gas tax cut will save a family $9.52 on every fill up of a 70-litre sedan.
All youth aged 12 to 17 now eligible for boosters
Appointments for third doses for Albertans aged 12 to 17 can now be booked for March 14 onward at AHS clinics and participating pharmacies through the Alberta Vaccine Booking system. Albertans can also call 811 to book vaccination appointments with AHS.
While the rate of severe outcomes for youth aged 12 to 17 remains low compared with those in older age categories or for youth
with risk factors, third doses have shown to offer better protection against the Omicron variant.
“Booster doses of vaccine are an excellent way to strengthen protection against severe outcomes from COVID-19. As restrictions on youth activities have ended and more normal school life resumes, I encourage parents and guardians to consider getting their children boosters based on their family’s individual circumstances.”
Jason Copping, Minister of Health Youth under the age of 18 require permission from a parent or guardian – either in person at the appointment or by a signed consent form – to be vaccinated. Identification that shows a birthdate is also required for all vaccinations. An Alberta Health Care card is not required. For more information on vaccines for children and youth, visit alberta. ca/vaccine.
Classifieds
COMING EVENTS
ACADIA RANCHING
BULL SALE March 5 @ 2:00 PM. BSSA - Brooks, AB. 2 year-old Charolais and Black Angus bulls. These bulls were performance tested at Hwy 21 Feeders ADG of 4.02 lbs / day. 176 days on feed. Don 403-664-8844 or Mindy 403-664-9348.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
FOREFRONT INSURANCE is hiring external brokers and processors/ data entry positions. Broker partnership opportunities for the right candidates. Call / email Michael 403-501-8013 / mhollinda@excelrisk.ca
DID YOU KNOW?
When you place a classified ad with us, it goes in all three of our community newspapers for ONE LOW PRICE! Call Kate at 306-463-2211 kate@yoursouthwest.com
Alberta Blanket Classified Ads
Non-careers pricing for Alberta and the NWT is $269 for 25 words and $8 per additional word. Your ad will appear in 90+ AWNA community newspapers which blanket Alberta and the Northwest Territories, that reach over 80 percent of Alberta’s non-metro households.
AUCTIONS
MEIER UNRESERVED GUN & SPORTSMAN
AUCTION. Saturday, March 5, 10 AM. Located 4740-57 Street, Wetaskiwin. Consign now. Phone 780-4401860. Visit www.meierauction.com for more details.
BUILDING FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 www.integritybuilt. com.
BUILDING SUPPLIES
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. 1-800282-6903, 780-434-8746 X225. www.awna.com.
COMING EVENTS FIREARMS WANTED FOR APRIL 2022 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual items. Contact Paul, Switzer’s Auction: Toll-Free 1-800694-2609, sales@switzersauction.com or www. switzersauction.com.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
EMPLOYMENT
OPPORTUNITY Alberta Millwrights Local 1460 is seeking Journeypersons and Alberta Registered Apprentice Industrial Mechanics who are residents of Alberta to fill our current and projected job postings throughout Alberta. If interested, please send your resume to info@millwrights1460. com.
HIRING DEPARTMENT MANAGERSLloydminster Sobeys. Apply with resume to sobeysjobs@gmail.com.
FEED AND SEED CERTIFIED SEED TO MEET your needs.
Senior’s Life Lease Unit For Sale
Offering for sale a beautiful, recently renovated Senior’s Life Lease Unit in Oyen’s Prairie Estate. These two-bedroom, one bathroom, 875 sq. ft. open concept floor plan features new paint and a private balcony overlooking the courtyard. Owning your own Prairie Estate Life Lease Unit is similar to condominium ownership, however, has the advantage of a guaranteed buy-back. Interested parties must be 50+ to qualify for purchase. Looking for a little smaller? We also have 720 sq. ft. units for sale! One unit also has a garage. The Life Lease Units are attached to the Oyen Lodge and managed by the Acadia Foundation. For more information regarding the purchase of this unit please, contact Sandy at 403-577-7973 or email sandy.kelts@acadiafoundation.com
BARLEY CDC Copper, Esma, AB Cattlelac, WHEAT CS Jake, AAC Redberry, AAC LeroyVB, AAC Magnet, CS Accelerate, CDC Reign trueseeds.ca 780-7775885.
WE BUY DAMAGED
GRAIN - Heated, Mixed, Tough, Light, Bugs, Spring Thrashed.... Barley, Wheat, Oats, Peas, Flax, Canola. “On Farm Pickup”. Westcan Feed & Grain 1-877-2505252.
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.
FOR RENT
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800282-6903 Ext 225; www. awna.com.
HEALTH
GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions Qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-800-211-3550 or Send a Text Message with your name and mailing address to 403-980-3605 for your FREE benefits package.
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take
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GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own homeyou qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877987-1420. www.pioneerwest.com.
JOB
This is a permanent position with 22 hours per week. The Town of Oyen Library board is looking for a self motivated individual who finds literacy & lifelong learning in all forms important.
The responsibilities of the Library Manager include:
• supervision of library operation
• selection of new materials
• organize, develop & maintain regular book clubs
• providing services to patrons
• processing of books and materials
• provide programming from Preschool-Adult
• assisting patrons to find, scan and renew materials
• researching and gathering materials for patrons
• making displays to encourage reading
• de-selecting of books and materials
• keeping an accurate inventory of books and materials
• cleaning library shelves and tables, as well as emptying the book drop
• keeping up-to-date circulation figures
• communicating with Marigold & attending meetings of the Town of Oyen Library Board
• maintaining and updating Library Automation System
• completing Government of Alberta Annual Report
• training summer staff
• contribute posts to social media
• self motivated in developing interesting programming that we are able to offer our patrons of all ages
• able to develop & post social media posts on different platforms
Please submit resumes to krsnell@netago.ca
Questions can be emailed to the same address.
Positions will be advertised until March 31st, 2022 or until a suitable candidate is found.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A close friend or relative has news that can change some of your plans. Be flexible. You could be in for a most-pleasant surprise at how things turn out.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A new opportunity opens just as you close the door on an earlier project. However, you should be prepared to make adjustments in your expectations.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Expect a surprise ally in your corner when you confront a still-uncertain situation in your workplace. In your personal life, a family member has good news.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) A co-worker c
ould resent what he or she might perceive as arrogance on your part. Smooth things over with a full explanation to avoid a serious misunderstanding.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) There is no time for catnaps this week. A workplace problem needs your attention before it gets out of hand. Ditto a financial matter that must be resolved as soon as possible.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Pressuring someone to act quickly on a problem could backfire. It makes good sense to be both patient and supportive if you want full cooperation.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) A touch of uncertainty lurks in your aspect this week. Weigh all decisions -- personal and professional -- even more carefully than you usually do.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) You need to use your innate good sense to help you sort through career offers that might not be what they appear. A trusted associate can help.
1. MYTHOLOGY: In Roman mythology, Cupid is the god of love. What’s the name of the Greek god of love?
2. MOVIES: Which movie series features a character named Inspector Clouseau?
3. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is the basic currency used in Greenland?
4. HISTORY: What was the first toy to be advertised on U.S. television?
5. MEASUREMENTS: What is the unit of measurement used to gauge the speed and direction of a computer mouse?
6. GEOGRAPHY: Which U.S. territory’s unofficial slogan is “Where America’s Day Begins”?
7. TELEVISION: What is the longest running scripted TV series?
8. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which president campaigned for election with the slogan “Happy Days Are Here Again”?
9. LANGUAGE: In British English, what is a windcheater?
10. ANATOMY: What part of the human brain controls hunger? © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Things move along more smoothly at work, but a personal relationship presents some challenges that need close attention.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Positive observations resolve the last lingering doubts about a recent move. Now you need to work on that still-pesky problem with a loved one.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) You might be a generous soul, but avoid being taken advantage of by those who have their own agendas. If you have any doubts, get out before regret sets in.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your strength might be tested by conflicting priorities in your personal life. Weigh the facts and then make the only choice you can: the right one.
BORN THIS WEEK: You have a deep sense of honesty and spirituality. People instinctively put their trust in you to lead them to the light.
Trivia Test Answerst
1. Eros; 2. “The Pink Panther”; 3. Danish krone; 4. Mr. Potato Head; 5. Mickeys per second; 6. Guam, whose location is near the International Date Line; 7. “The Simpsons”; 8. Franklin Roosevelt (1932); 9. A windbreaker; 10. Hypothalamus
EVELYN MARGARET
FERGUSON
1929-2022
FERGUSON - It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Evelyn Margaret Ferguson who passed away peacefully, at home on February 8, 2022 at the age of 93. The matriarch of our family, and firstborn daughter of Einar and Helen Anderson of Kathryn Alberta, Evelyn was predeceased by our father, Gerald Booth Ferguson in 1983. She is survived by her four children, Debbie, Gordon (Nancy), Marianne and
CORDELL - Cyril Cordell of Red Deer passed away on January 10, 2022, at 70 years of age, at the Red Deer Hospital with Sherrie and Shane by his side.
He is the loving partner of Sherrie Atherton, son of George and Mabel (both predeceased), brother of Trevor (Pam),
Peggy; six grandchildren, Michael, Mina, Svea, Zachary, Evelyn and Isabelle; and great grandchildren, Mason, Ella and Omri.
Evelyn created a strong family circle just by being herself, always modelling acceptance, kindness, and compassion. She was fully “there” for us, cheering us on and supporting us always without judgement or interference.
Evelyn was gracious, graceful, and had a zest for life right to the end. She & our dad raised their family in strength and stability in the small prairie town of Oyen Alberta. Following our dad’s passing, mom gathered herself and her adventurous spirit emerged. She first moved to Calgary and then took a big leap and moved to the coast mountains in BC to spend time near Marianne and her family. Our family has many affectionate memories of gathering at her beautiful mountain home. In her later years, Evelyn moved along with Marianne and Peggy to Kamloops BC where she enjoyed the company of Peggy’s girls and numerous visits from friends and relatives.
Rather than go to a senior’s care facility, Evelyn chose to be at home
Sheila Seitz, Dwight (Fran), and Rosie Wildman (Norman).
Cyril is the father of Shane and Tanya (Peter Dellewell) and patriarch to six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, three step-children and six step-grandchildren.
He was always positive and light-hearted; he survived spinal meningitis as a child and was branded with the nickname “Perky” because of his boundless energy. He travelled most of Alberta in the later years for the Canadian Taxpayers Association (the watchdog on government spending), selling and renewing memberships and keeping people up-todate on government maneuvers.
with family. We created a small suite attached to Marianne’s home where she enjoyed her final years surrounded by her family. The joy and grace our mother expressed at numerous family gatherings will be forever in our memories.
It’s not possible to capture all the unique and special things about our mother here so if you were blessed to know her, you will surely have fond memories of your own. Please help us honour her and carry on her legacy through your acts of kindness and acceptance of others, with joy and fun, and with an adventurous spirit to be open to new things.
Evelyn lived an extraordinary life in an ordinary way.
We will announce a Celebration of Life event at a later date when gathering restrictions allow.
Condolences may be expressed to the family from www.myalternatives.ca
Cyril was willing to help at the drop of a hat. He made a point of visiting his mom at the Oyen Hospital and Extendicare at least once a week - on Thursdays, which he called “Cyday”. (He preferred to be called Cy, even though his older brother Trevor insisted on his full name - it’s more dignified).
The fall would always find him at the farm, trucking for Trevor during harvest in the 70’s/80’s. He could make “catching on the fly” look like a dance move! (Maybe because of maneuvering larger Nowsco trucks in the oil patch).
He loved to travel. Sherrie and Cyril enjoyed many vacations to Cuba, Mexico and other points.
A cruise to Alaska, taking Mom along, and various other trips with his mother Mabel, to points in the US.
A couple of limos were included as part of his hobbies and allowed many people to enjoy the luxury of sightseeing and camaraderie.
Gun collecting was another hobby, and he had a nose for finding unique black powder rifles and pistols, among other extensive acquisitions. Shooting ranges were part of his life as he tested out new and old.
That infectious laugh, smiling eyes, and great visits will be painfully missed forever.
Too young - too soon. RIP
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