MONDAY, FEBRUARY 22,
look for The Oyen Echo
There will be some construction taking place in Cereal, Alberta in the upcoming months, thanks to a Municipal Stimulus Program (MSP) Grant. Cereal & District Athletic Association was recently awarded a $50,000 MSP Grant through Municipal Affairs. The amount of $50,000 of funding was made available to municipalities with smaller populations.
For the past 52 years, The Oyen Echo has been under the direction of Diana Walker. I am honoured and humbled to step into Diana’s shoes.
In an effort to minimize administrative and reporting requirements, municipalities were required to apply for the grant by October 1, 2020 with one or two specific projects in mind.
As part of its $32 million Capacity Initiative, Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF) is pleased to announce a $266,942 infrastructure investment for field equipment at the Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA) located at Oyen, AB.
“CARA’s program of applied research, demonstration and extension provides an important link in the transfer of knowledge and technology between research and the producer,” says, Dr. Keith Degenhardt, WGRF Board Chair. “WGRF is very excited to be making this investment in their program to increase research capacity.”
mised by mechanical limitations during seeding, harvest or site maintenance,” Dianne Westerlund, CARA Manager.
Clint Olsen, vice-president of the Cereal & District Athletic Association, explained that by the time they found out about the grant, they only had ten days to apply, and the application had to include all the financials for the project.
I was born and raised in Kindersley, Sask. In 2020, I moved back to my roots after a 33-year absence to start Your West Central Voice, a weekly community paper published in Kindersley. It serves a broader area, including Eston, Eatonia, Leader and Kerrobert.
I’ve spent my entire working career in communications and newspaper. I have worked for such publications as the Farmer-Stockmen AdVisor, Medicine Hat Shopper, Shaunavon Standard and Maple Creek News. I had my own publishing company previously in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, where I ran the Gull Lake Advance for eight years from 2009-2017.
“We had installed some outdoor bathrooms in 2019, so it was easy to get an application for that project,” he concluded.
The primary objective of the funding is to sustain and create local jobs, enhance provincial competitiveness and productivity, position communities to participate in future economic growth, and reduce municipal red-tape to promote job creating private sector investment.
CARA’s applied research includes over 3500 plots of variety trials (both annual and perennial crops), agronomics and rotation studies plus evaluation of crop and soil amendments.
“With this funding from WGRF we are able to purchase assets (plot combine, tractor, ¾ ton truck, GPS unit, cargo trailer, and a mower tractor) that will ensure the quality of applied research conducted at CARA conducts is not compro-
A full line of small plot equipment will give CARA the capacity to conduct quality applied research and demonstration projects.
“Funding for capital purchases such as this equipment for CARA can be difficult for producer-directed research associations to access,” says Garth Patterson, WGRF Executive Director. “That’s been the goal of our capacity initiative, identifying the gap, either in human resources or infrastructure resources, and then funding a solution.”
| PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST
In total, twenty-four Phase 2 Capacity Initiative applications were approved by WGRF. Additional Capacity funding announcements will be made in the coming months.
The community of Oyen deserves a weekly community paper. I’ve always believed in my abilities, and I’m ready to take on this challenge in these uncertain times. Joining me in this adventure is my husband Robert. We have been married for 20 years and have three teenage children.
As a result, Cereal & District Athletic Association has been approved to build four additional large, permanent outdoor bathrooms in Cereal. The council will hold a meeting later this month to decide where to place the bathrooms, but Clint said two bathrooms would be located at the rodeo grounds, one at the campground, with the council to finalize the location of the remaining bathroom.
The Echo will now be published and delivered to Canada Post on Mondays. Subscribers in Cereal and Youngstown can also expect to receive their paper on Monday, as we will be delivering the papers ourselves to Canada Post in those communities, rather than waiting for it to travel to Calgary and back.
A newspaper is the original social media. We need newspapers to help keep our history alive.
I would encourage people to send their interesting, thought-provoking or unique story or feature article ideas to me at kate@yoursouthwest.com.
“The plan is to use as many local businesses as possible,” Clint said. This will include backhoe work, setting in the septic and holding tanks, pouring concrete pads and welding. Once everything is finalized, Clint said the council will “start getting some quotes and get things nailed down.. The whole point of the grant is to try to get economic cash in the area.”
I look forward to serving you for many years to come (maybe not quite as many as Diana)!
The goal is to have the project completed before the end of the year as the project funding must be spent on the accepted projects prior to December 31, 2021.
OYEN, ALBERTA
The Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA) located at Oyen. ECHO FILE PHOTO
Just a gal from Glidden ...
Thanks for all the letters and messages this week! I look forward to another adventure in the warmer temperatures this week to share with you all :)
The Mail Bag
My name is Steve Merriman. I am in Brainerd, Minnesota. I read your article on Loverna that was recently posted on Facebook. I, along with several friends, have been hunting in the Loverna area since 1976, myself since 1980. We have watched Loverna and so many other small towns slowly disappear. We own a house in Loverna. I spend approx five months there every year, with the exception of 2020, of course. I look forward to being able to visit again soon. I have had the opportunity in talking to many of the old-timers, learning how many have Minnesota roots. Anyway, thank you for the story on Loverna. It is my home away from home, and I miss it.
- Steve Merriman
Thank you for your article and pictures of Loverna and Hoosier. My parents came to Loverna when the railroad did, (it was C.N. not C.P.) and my oldest sister was the first baby born in the new town, receiving a baby carriage as a gift for that distinction. Dad was pump man for the C.N. keeping those big seam engines filled with water to produce the steam. I took my schooling there until grades 11 and 12 in Kindersley, staying at the Dorm, way before your time. Graduated there in 1952. Married in 1955 and lived in Alsask until after my husband’s death. Moved to New Westminster to be close to my oldest son in 2013.
Any articles you can discover about that part of the world will be of great interest to me, as were your stories this week. Keep it up. We “oldtimers” enjoy all the news you can find. Thanks again.
- Marjorie Griggs
(Harley)
Thanks, Kate and staff.
I want to thank Mr. Herman Schwenk for his sensible, thought-provoking views on climate change, the UN and various kabals. I always looked forward to his column and was sad to hear of his retirement.
May you enjoy your days now, Mr. Schwenk! My thoughts and prayers are with you as you face this new battle.
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
How one person can make a difference
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
How one person can A tenyear-old asked, “What’s the difference between a banana and bananas?” His answer: “One is just a banana, the other is crazy.”
Lately there’s lots of stuff going on that’s bananas. Everyone has heard the reports of Canadians returning to Canada who were forced to quarantine at an undisclosed location because their negative tests were insufficient, or because they had been given the wrong test. These people were charged $2,000 for a few nights accommodation and their family members weren’t allowed to know where they were taken. These Radison Hotels are owned by a joint venture led by a Chinese state-owned hospitality company.
The federal government is looking into developing a national childcare program, which isn’t necessarily ‘bananas’. However Jasmine Moulton from the Canadian Taxpayers Federation stated $20 million was spent on just the consultation about this program. “It’s going to be incredibly expensive and it won’t solve the real child care problems,” she said. “Not every parent should be forced to use a government childcare program, which the government can’t afford. Quebec introduced this program last year and it cost $2.7 billion. Every taxpayer should be worried be-
I love sharing cute jokes:
cause the next generation will foot the cost for these child care costs.”
Jasmine said, the federal government is spending $1.8 billion every day, and they don’t even know what they’re spending it on. Katherine McKenna lost track of tens of billions of dollars spent on infrastructure, and $100 billion is slated to be spent when the economy begins to recover. “CERB payments, in many cases, were over compensating for lost income,” Jasmine said.
“Debt today means taxes tomorrow. Much of the debt will be subject to interest hikes in a couple of years. This is historic spending. For people who care about programs, and care about the next generation, they really should be holding this reckless government to account.”
How will all this debt be paid?
Dan McTeague, Former Liberal MP explained the recklessness of the new carbon tax and blocked pipe-
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
By Robert Blagen Youngstown, AB • 403-779-3859
lines. “When you lose that kind of capital because your number one export is oil and gas, how are you going to pay down the $400 billion tab you just rang up in the last 12 months? Let’s have some common sense.”
All of these circumstances could qualify as being ‘bananas’, and have ordinary taxpayers asking how one Canadian (banana) can make a difference? One Canadian lady was asking herself the same question, and decided to attend an Electoral District Association (EDA) meeting of the party to which she was a member. She let her name stand on a council and got voted in the policies part of the EDA.
Each council member expressed their opinions and a policy was brought forward at a local level. A resolution was put forward and the vote was taken. The results were 8 for and 7 against.
“So that’s the power of one person showing up and you never know if you’re going to be that person,” the woman said. “I was brand new to the board and brand new to the committee. It’s really important that each one of us shows up at the level where these decisions are being made. These policies are passed at the grassroots level, before they go forward at the national level.” That may be another difference between a banana and bananas. You can contact me at joanjanzen@ yahoo.com
Warmest wishes, - Mary
Ruth Olson
This dumb blonde gave birth to twin daughters. Her friend asked her what she was going to name them. The dumb blonde said, “Kate and Duplicate with a K.”
I couldn’t resist this because of your name. Haha. Diana could tell you I was known for the bad person that told jokes. Anyway, we had fun in those good old days in Oyen. Wishing you the best in the upcoming year.
Regards,
Lauretta Thygesen
Fossil Fuel: Thank God for our good old fossil fuel! Without it, we would all have been in dire straits the last three or four weeks. I wonder how many windmills and solar panels it would have taken to keep our homes warm. If Trudeau is going to shut the oil and gas and coal industry down, I think we should be able to see his plan and timeline for doing this. The greenies and the climate changers say we have to do this within five years or the old planet is doomed.
I think Trudeau’s plan will be somewhere between a fairytale and a nightmare, or maybe he figures the “Carbon Tax” will do it all for him. Trudeau and his greenie friends should have driven out west last week in their electric cars to see how they performed at 40 or 50 degrees below zero. I’m kind of wondering how much my power bill will be after he gets done with this colossal project, and does anybody really think he can pull this one off? I think the Worlds going to need our oil gas and coal for a few more millenniums!
Ducks launches new farmer-focused website
Stonewall, Man. – Farmers looking for practical solutions to make their operations more sustainable have a new resource to turn to with Ducks Unlimited Canada’s (DUC) – ag.ducks.ca – a new website that builds on DUC’s long-time relationship with the agricultural industry.
The new website is easy to navigate and provides users with information about DUC’s conservation programs that offer financial incentives. It also features several success stories that demonstrate how farmers and ranchers on the Prairies promote environmental and economic sustainability through conservation.
“This new website is one way we can highlight some of the practices being used that have resulted from ongoing co-operative efforts between farmers, DUC and the agricultural industry,” says DUC’s agriculture lead, Paul Thoroughgood. “It gives us a place to recognize and acknowledge the great work that farmers and ranchers are doing to support conservation and sustainable agriculture every day.”
To recognize the power of partnerships, the website features several agriculture industry leaders which DUC is engaged with on its Partners page. When it comes to national, sustainability discussions, DUC is often the only conservation group asked to speak to issues relating to conservation and Canadian agriculture. From crops to cows, DUC is proud to be involved in several important industry initiatives.
In support of the Canadian beef industry, the new ag website is also home to Beef Belongs – a page dedicated to explaining how beef production benefits the environment.
“As a proud member of the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, we work with all partners in the beef value chain to dispel the myths around beef production,” says Kristine Tapley, DUC’s regional agrologist – beef industry. “Our new site clearly conveys that Canada needs beef farmers and ranchers. Grazing cattle offers tremendous benefits to our environment and the health of our land and our soil.”
As more research demonstrates the connectivity between agriculture and the environment, DUC is pleased to play a role in helping the agriculture industry find economically and environmentally sound solutions that are based on science.
“As consumers become more interested in how their food is produced, conservation groups like DUC can play an important role by adding credibility to the environmental values agriculture brings to the table,” says Thoroughgood. “DUC delivers more programs at the farmgate than any other conservation group in Canada. We can help the industry reach environmental sustainability goals through program delivery and with the scientific expertise to back it up.”
Explore the new website at ag.ducks.ca or contact your local DUC office to learn about eligible programs near you.
Youngstown Communiqué
Reported by Robert Blagen 403-854-0664
I would like to send out my condolences to the family and friends of Wendy Dafoe of the Coronation area who has recently died.
It seems that we are getting a reprieve from our frigid weather this week as our temperatures seem to be on the rise. A welcome change from the
last couple of weeks or more of the average temperature being minus 30 plus. Then you add the wind chill on top of it, and it’s sure makes you appreciate the warmer days being forecasted.
During this cold snap, a few residents reported having water lines freezing up. The Hotel here
This is to notify you with respect to a decision of the Development Officer, whereby a development permit has been issued authorizing the following:
By the time you’re reading this we should be out of the deepfreeze! Schools were open on Friday the 12th, the students were able to attend class for one day before the family week break.
There are a few shacks out on the dam and I hear that the fish are still biting. I’ve even heard that someone caught a 2-3 pounder.
Sending get well wishes to Dan Moslamani. The A.V. Diner was closed last week and will remain closed until Dan’s health is better.
Ava Kuhn celebrated her 10th birthday at the outdoor rink with some friends on family day.
The A.V. Rec. Club is still selling 50/50’s, the next draw will be made March 1st . You can get your tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or from a Rec. Club Member.
Acadia Valley
February 17, 2021
Reported by Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582
The Ice to Dice Fundraiser will take place online f rom March 1-6th. Make sure to watch The Ice to Dice Fundraiser Facebook page for updates.
Happy Anniversary to Mary and Ray Donald who celebrated their 25th on February 14th.
I just wanted to send a shout out to Halo Air Ambulance who was called out to Acadia Valley on
Wednesday. Their service was incredibly fast and efficient. Our community highly depends on this service. Please continue to support them. You can donate directly at www. haloairambulance.com
Thanks for reading this week. I will end with a quote from Jennifer Lopez, “You get what you g ive”
will be open commencing at 1:00 p.m. Jeffrey J. Neumann in attendance on
March 11th, April 1st & April 22nd For appointments call
any
be affected by a decision of the Municipal Planning Commission may ap
peal to the Development Appeal Board by serving written notice of appeal to the Secretary within 21 days.
in town also had pipes freeze and unfortunately it has been reported that the pipes had also burst causing a water leak.
I am happy to report that Jim Mably who is employed by the Village made a small outdoor skating area between the Skating Rink and the Rec Centre. Although a smaller area, it is a perfect Rink for the younger children to enjoy.
I may be a bit late with my wishes, but hope you were able to spend your Valentine’s Day with your loved ones and your Family Day holiday with your family doing something enjoyable.
Cereal News
Reported by Maxine Girletz
403-664-0513
February 23-29
Happy birthday to Carrie Madge, Cheryl Howie, Kim Stief, Braxton Thornton, Cree Shadlock, Keaton Duque, Nate Leslie, Shaylynn Hayworth, Warren Dziatkewich, Winston Smith, Everleigh Adam, Jordyn Seemann, Wayne Hains, Debbie Rosine, Jaxson Meister, Holly Hayworth, James Bijou, Palmer Hindes, Shirley Vanstone, Terry Wood.
Happy anniversary to Stephen and Shari Muzyka, Kerry and Brittany Molzan.
R. Barry Miskuski, John F. Stodalka, Jeffrey J. Neumann, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Hermann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Special Areas Board has drafted a Municipal Development Plan and is requesting feedback from the public. The draft document is available for viewing online at www.specialareas.ab.ca and at Special Areas District Offices during normal business hours.
This document is the broad, long-range planning tool used by the Special Areas Board to guide future land use and development, growth patterns, transportation systems and municipal services. It is a statutory plan that requires public consultation. There are no changes to the Special Area 2, 3 & 4 Land Use Order.
A VIRTUAL PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2021 BEGINNING AT 1:00 PM.
To register to attend this virtual public hearing, contact Morgan Fullerton (Property Administration) at morgan.fullerton@specialareas.ab.ca or call (403) 854-5614 by 4:30 pm on Friday, February 19, 2021. Registration is required to attend.
Written email submissions will be accepted to public.input@specialareas.ab.ca until February 19, 2021. Written comments will be presented publicly to the Board at the above hearing date.
• Alberta Seniors Program Accepted • Complete &
Kindersley Denture Clinic
David J. Anderson D.D. & Caitlin Geiger D.D. 109 - 1st Ave. West, Kindersley, SK 1-306-463-4124
Call today for an appointment.
Expanding Alberta’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout
More than 1.79 million Albertans will receive the COVID-19 vaccine this spring under Phase 2 of Alberta’s vaccine distribution strategy.
Phase 2 vaccinations will be offered in a staged approach and once completed, will have vaccinated anyone aged 50 to 74 years, anyone with high-risk underlying health conditions, First Nations and Métis people aged 35 and older, residents and staff in congregate living settings, and eligible caregivers.
Phase 2 is targeted to begin in April, depending on the supply of vaccine.
“Alberta’s vaccine roll-out has always prioritized people who are most at risk from COVID-19 and Phase 2 is no different. We have listened to advice from public health experts and our Vaccine Task Force to identify those at-risk Albertans. By the time Phase 2 is complete, 1.79 million more Albertans will have received COVID-19 vaccination, and we will be able to move onto vaccinating the general public. Our province is ready to get vaccines into the arms of Albertans as quickly as possible. However, this relies on Alberta getting the right supply of vaccines from Ottawa, on time. We need the federal government to end the delays so we can get the job done.” said Premier Jason Kenney.
“Alberta’s vaccine delivery program is among the best and will continue to ramp-up as we get
more supply. The more vaccine that arrives in Alberta, the faster we can get to Phase 2 and begin immunizing many, many more Albertans. The pandemic is not over, but we are steadily building our defences against it.” relayed Tyler Shandro, Minister of Health.
Eligibility in Phase 2 will move from Group A toward Group D:
Group A includes:
• Albertans aged 65 to 74, no matter where they live.
• First Nations and Métis people aged 50 to 64, on and off reserve or Metis Settlements.
• Staff of licensed supportive living facilities not included in Phase 1.
Group B includes:
• Albertans aged 18 to 64 with high-risk underlying health conditions. Additional information on specific conditions will be provided prior to Phase 2 rollout.
Group C includes:
• Residents and staff of eligible congregate living settings. This includes correctional facilities, homeless shelters, and group homes, including disability, mental health and other types of licensed supportive living.
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST OPPORTUNITY
GUARANTEED
•
•
Teeth don’t have to be an embarrassment.
Kindersley Denture Clinic
David
SK 1-306-463-4124
Call today for an appointment.
Special Areas and Oyen Development Corporation is soliciting expressions of interest for the sale of the Oyen Rail Yard Site, with the purchaser assuming direct operations and development. Interested parties are asked to submit a response by 4:00 pm on March 12, 2021.
For details of this opportunity, please view the expression of interest at www.specialareas.ab.ca/ business/rfps-tenders/.
• Health-care workers providing direct and acute patient care who have a high potential for spread to high-risk individuals.
• Caregivers of Albertans who are most at risk of severe outcomes.
Group D includes:
• Albertans aged 50 to 64, no matter where they live.
• First Nations and Métis people aged 35 to 49 on and off reserve or Metis Settlements.
Detailed information on how eligible Albertans will receive the vaccine will be released prior to each step in Phase 2. The timeline for starting each phase is dependent on vaccine supply and availability. Alberta relies on the federal government to distribute vaccine to the province.
Work to identify sequencing for all other groups is underway. All vaccinated individuals are expected to continue to follow health guidelines and restrictions. Alberta’s government is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by protecting lives and livelihoods with precise measures to bend the curve, sustain small businesses and protect Alberta’s health-care system.
If
are, or know a senior that would like to beat the COVID blues, please call our office and
nominate, please leave us a message or email us at oyenfcss.pamelastark@gmail.com
An Agency of the Government of Alberta
OYEN ECHO
Confusion in Canada’s Pandemic Response
Many of you have contacted my office about the recently announced international travel measures. People are worried about the new testing and quarantine requirements, as well as what that means for them and their rights. I wanted to address these concerns, but also share information that may impact constituents.
As of February 22nd, air travelers will be required to reserve, prior to arrival in Canada, a 3-night stay in a government-authorized hotel. Upon arrival, travelers will be tested for COVID-19 and if they receive a negative result within the three nights, they can continue the rest of their 14day quarantine at home or approved quarantine location. Also, all travelers, whether arriving by land or air will be required to submit their travel and contact information, including a suitable quarantine plan.
There are possible exceptions and exemptions, however there is limited clarity on what those are. We are told
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
exceptions will include essential workers, medical treatments, and humanitarian reasons. In most cases, travelers will be evaluated on a case by case basis, and we recommend you take steps to determine whether you will qualify before any essential travel.
These measures are in addition to the previous ones related to travel requiring a negative PCR test in order to board a flight from another country.
To emphasize however, the Government of Canada is recommending against any non-essential travel outside of Canada. The most up to date and detailed information can be found at travel.gc.ca/travel-covid/travel-restrictions. If this affects you or a fami-
ly member, consider the possible costs and implications of travel in light of these measures.
The response to these measures has been predictable, as there is growing frustration with the status of Canada’s response to COVID-19. Unfortunately, the Liberals’ have failed to have cohesive and succinct response to COVID-19. Measures implemented have affected every aspect of our daily lives and were initially meant to ensure Government had the time needed to develop an action plan for the coronavirus pandemic. Now, a year after the first cases were found in Canada, there is nearly as much uncertainty today as there was a year ago.
I have heard your frustration and concerns. Canada’s Conservatives are working to ensure there is a plan to get Canadians back to work, that your rights are respected, that there is accountability in how Government conducts itself, and looking out for the health and interests of Canadians. Finally, I would ask for your feedback, please reach out so I can share it with the Government and most effectively represent you.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or e-mail damien. kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek. If you are in need of assistance regarding a Federal Government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to MP Kurek’s office.
BOOK Notes
**The library is currently operating through curbside service only. Please contact the library to arrange pick-up for any library materials.**
ADULT FICTION:
The Russian by James Patterson Winter in Paradise by Elin Hildebrand (Paperback)
TEEN & TWEEN FIC-
TION:
Lie to Me by Kaitlin
Ward
The One & Only Bob by Katherine Applegate Pumpkin Spice Up Your
Life by Suzanne Nelson
NON-FICTION (CHILDREN): That’s Not My Wombat by Fiona Watt
What If You Could Spy Like a Narwhal!?: Explore the Superpowers of Amazing Animals by Sandra Markle
KITS:
Pre-School Story Time Kits* (books, activity sheets, & a craft)
Family Grab & Go Packs* (family theme – books, activities, craft)
Book & a Movie Packs
Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance.
Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications. Farmer Direct.
by Tricia Fischbuch
(book, movie, crossword/ word search, popcorn)
Adult Colouring Kit (colouring book & pencil crayons)
Puzzle
*Please specify ages and number of children when ordering so enough craft materials can be included.
COMING EVENTS:
Wednesday February 24; 6:30 – Online Book Club (1984 by George Orwell). Copies available at the library. Call/email to register.
“A book is a beautiful, paper mausoleum, or tomb, in which to store ideas...to keep the bones of your thoughts in one place, for all time. I just want to say...”Hello. We can hear you. The words survived.” - Caitlin Moran, How to be Famous
403-664-3644 ext. 2727 aoymlibrary@marigold.ab.ca
Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7
Consort RCMP arrest three involved in copper wire theft
Consort RCMP have arrested three people in connection with multiple copper wire thefts from different oilfield sites in eastern Alberta. Coronation RCMP, Consort RCMP and Killam RCMP have been investigating these thefts at numerous sites throughout all three jurisdictions since August 2020.
On Feb. 10, 2021, Coronation RCMP stopped a vehicle in relation to the investigation. Police located and seized approximately 900 pounds of copper wire and a rifle.
charged with;
• Possession of firearm in a vehicle
• Possession of stolen property under $5000
On Feb. 11, 2021, a search warrant was executed by Consort RCMP, Coronation RCMP and Medicine Hat ALERTon a residence located on the east side of Coronation, Alta.
Police located and seized wire casings, break-in instruments and tools used to cut and strip copper wire.
Dylan Spencer Goddu (24) of Coronation, Alta., Meggan Rae Cole (28) of Killam, Alta. and Randall James Lawrence (37) of Fleet, Alta. have been
In addition, Goddu has been charged with;
• Possession of property obtained by crime for the purpose of trafficking under $5000
• Trafficking property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break-in instruments
Goddu, Cole and Lawrence have been released from custody and are scheduled to appear in Coronation Provincial Park on Mar.12, 2021.
If you have information relating to this or any other crime, please contact the Consort RCMP detachment at 403577-3000. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com, or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.
Explore the Mediterranean Diet for healthy living
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
WINTER HARDY ALGONQUIN ALFALFA SEED
AGRICULTURAL
FIELDMAN
99.9% purity, zero weed seeds, inoculated, in 55 lb bags wholesale price $2.90 a pound. Algonquin Alfalfa is a tap root tri foliate, extremely winter hardy, fine stem, and excellent disease resistance. Also Selling Timothy and Brome Grass Blends to your specifications. Farmer Direct. FREE SHIPPING on orders over 1200 lb.
Wage: $27.4922 to $31.5717 Per Hour
Hanna – The Special Areas Board requires a temporary full-time employee, to cover a maternity leave, in the Agriculture Service Department. The successful applicant shall implement, promote and direct agriculture programs and services in Special Area No. 2. Reporting to the Special Area No. 2 Administrator, duties will include, but not be limited to: Key duties
• Annual budgeting, reporting and administration
• Identification and inspection of weeds and insects
• Pesticide application
• Managing soil and water conservation programs
• Organize field tours and seminars
• Coordination of equipment and maintenance
• Supervision of seasonal staff
• Collecting and recording field data in a responsible record keeping system
• Ensure compliance of various Acts and Regulations
• Participation in and compliance with the Special Areas Safety Program; and
• Other duties as required.
Qualifications
• Degree or diploma in agriculture or related field
• Demonstrate good communication, interpersonal and leadership skills to work within a team environment
• Highly organized team leader comfortable working in remote areas
• Experience with modern farming/ranching techniques or practical agriculture background
• Excellent organizational, record keeping skills, computer knowledge and public relations are essential
• Agricultural and Industrial Pesticide Applicators License (or ability to obtain prior to commencing)
• Valid Alberta Driver’s license
• Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered.
Requests for additional information may be directed to Special Area No. 2 Agricultural Fieldman, Jesse Williams, 403-854-5624.
COMPETITION NO: 621002MAT CLOSING DATE: March 3, 2021
This is a designated safety sensitive position and mandatory drug testing will be conducted on all newly hired employees.
Please send cover letter and resume quoting competition number to: Human Resource Services Special Areas Board Box 820 Hanna, AB T0J 1P0 Fax (403) 854-5527 SpecialAreasHR@specialareas.ab.ca
We thank all applicants; however only those invited for an interview will be personally contacted.
Bring a taste of the world into your diet this winter. The Mediterranean Diet is a style of eating that includes foods often eaten in the countries around the Mediterranean Sea. Some of these countries are Spain, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Israel, Egypt and Morocco.
This style of eating includes lots of vegetables, fruits, beans, peas, lentils, fish, nuts and olive oil – all foods that we can get in Alberta.
Here are a few tips on how to incorporate the Mediterranean Diet into your lifestyle:
• Eat five or more servings of vegetables each day, and three or more servings of fruit each day.
• Of that, ensure two servings are raw or salad.
• Choose brightly coloured vegetables. Some examples are beets, carrots, eggplant, kale, okra, spinach, squash and tomatoes.
• Choose brightly coloured fruits. Some examples are oranges, strawberries, melons and peaches.
• Prepare vegetables with small amounts of olive oil, and no salt or sugar.
• Fresh, frozen or canned vegetables and fruit are good choices. Frozen and canned are often as nutrition as fresh.
• Eat five-six servings of whole grains each day.
• Use herbs, spices, garlic and onion as flavourings instead of salt.
• Enjoy fish or seafood instead of meat three or more times a week.
• Eat at least one serving of fish high in omega-3 fats: salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel and trout.
• Choose fresh, frozen or no added salt canned fish or seafood.
• Choose lean poultry, meat and eggs
• Choose poultry such as chicken and turkey more often than red meat (Beef, pork, lamb or goat).
• Eggs and egg whites have protein and can be used in place of red meat at meals.
Limit these foods:
• High-fat milk products such as cream or butter.
• Processed meat such as sausage, bacon, ham, salami, deli meats and pate. These are higher in saturated fat and salt.
• Higher fat fresh meats such as marbled steak, roast, ribs, pork belly, duck or chicken wings.
• Foods with added sugar (consume less than two times per week), such as pop, iced tea, fruit drinks sweetened with sugar, baked goods, puddings and custard.
• High-fat snack foods such as French fries, potato chips, buttered popcorn and cheese puffs.
Classifieds The Oyen Echo
AUCTIONS
COFFEE & FOOD EQUIPMENT, ANTIQUES Online Auction Feb 25 – March 3/21, Ponoka & Blackfalds, AB. Also selling Collectables, Horse Drawn Buggy, Amish Horse Board Room Table Drawn Carriage, & More. www.montgomeryauctions.com 1-800-3716963.
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. 1-800282-6903 Ext 225; www. awna.com.
Bridal shower for Rebecca McIntyre, brideelect of Blake Hertz, Saturday, March 6. Watch for more info.
FEED AND SEED
ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.
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, 1-877-250-5252.
FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@ integritybuilt.com 1-866974-7678 www.integritybuilt.com.
LAND FOR SALE
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 306-7162671.
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.
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. 403-854-4456 or 403-854-1005 or barrylowe48@gmail.com.
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BLANKET ALBERTA
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.
Alberta RCMP reports reduced crime rates in 2020
EDMONTON – With property crime a leading concern for many Albertans, the Alberta RCMP continues to focus on its Crime Reduction Strategy – an intelligence-led approach to policing that enables RCMP to identify repeat offenders and crime trends, as well as conduct targeted enforcement and prevention initiatives. Over the past year, the organization’s strategy had notable success, recording improved crime rates across the province.
Included in the RCMP’s Crime Reduction Strategy are initiatives like Data 2 Action – a program that focuses resources on the province’s most vulnerable communities, targeting prevalent crime types in those areas. Launching two years ago, the program has since grown and is now overseen at a district level, allowing Data 2 Action to be implemented in more communities throughout Alberta.
As well, the Alberta RCMP operates Crime Reduction Units in all four districts of the province; these teams consist of experienced police officers, criminal analysts, and civilian staff specialized in targeting repeat offenders who impact communities most.
FTG Enterprises Inc.
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After the realization that certain rural properties were repeatedly being targeted for crime, Project Lock Up was also launched under the Crime Reduction Strategy, in 2019. This collaborative, intelligence-led program allows RCMP and citizens to work together to respond to repeat victims of property crime. From March 2019 to April 2020, the number of top-targeted properties – properties that previously experienced the highest rates of repeat crime – dropped by 55.4%, meaning Project Lock Up efforts, including targeted patrols, have contributed to substantially decrease the number of repeat victimizations.
In 2020, the Alberta RCMP saw improved crimes trends throughout the communities it serves. From January through December 2020, there was a 17% decrease in Break & Enters in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions compared to 2019, and a 19% decrease in Theft of Motor Vehicles.
Theft Under $5,000 also declined, dropping by 22%, with 7,852 fewer cases reported than the previous year. Overall, there were 14,230 fewer Property Crime offences and 21,285 fewer Total Criminal Code offences in 2020.
“The Alberta RCMP recognizes that crime rates inevitably fluctuate, rising and declining over time. While the nature of crime cannot be controlled, the RCMP can account for the plans it has in place to manage it. As Alberta’s provincial police force, we are confident that our Crime Reduction Strategy is making an impact and yielding positive results.”
- Superintendent Peter Tewfik, Officer in Charge, Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy
Albertans can stay informed about crime rates in their area by accessing the Alberta RCMP Crime Map atCrimeStoppers.ab.ca, or by visiting the RCMP’s Data and Innovation webpage, which highlights key statistics and information on policing initiatives throughout the province.
Overall, the Alberta RCMP is dedicated to reducing crime and will continue to collaborate with communities, partner agencies, and government at all levels to do so. By working together, we can be a stronger, safer Alberta.
Cell: 403-664-9637 buds_e_i_services@yahoo.com Office: 403-676-2162 Fax: 403-676-2152
HANNA VISION