The Oyen Echo - July 26, 2023 by yourwestcentral

Front Row Centre hosts Old Tyme Music Jamboree

It was a foot-steppin’ good time, as the Front Row Centre hosted the 22nd edition of Hanna’s Old Tyme Music Jamboree over the weekend. The three-day event took place at the Hanna Community Centre from July 21-23.

Event organizer Angie Warwick was happy to have the event start up again after a three-year reprieve because of Covid.

Warwick said that folks travel from all over to attend. “People come from the interior of BC to the east side of the Saskatchewan border, down south to our US border, and up north - almost two hours north of Edmonton. We have a very wide range. There is a jamboree circuit, so they travel with their RVs and living accommodations across the province and beyond.

Musicians from Lethbridge, Red Deer, Sylvan Lake and the Edmonton area, as well as one local band, provided the music.

“These people will dance all day. It’s their marathon,” said Michael Hart, another of the event’s volunteers. | PHOTOS BY KATE WINQUIST

Live Love Laugh Shoes

Awards

ployee’s Choice Award, Agriculture Spirit Award, Innovative Entrepreneur Award and the Mentorship Award.

Nomination categories include Business of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Rookie Business of the Year, Community Spirit Award (Business ONLY), Customer Service Excellence - Business, Customer Service Excellence - Individual, Em-

Nominations are open to any business or employee within the Town of Hanna and surrounding area.

The nomination deadline is Friday, August 11, 2023.

If you require more information, please get in touch with the Hanna & District Chamber of Commerce at the Business Hub during office hours, email: info@hannachamber.ca or call 403854-4004.

The HDCC reserves the right to present awards to Chamber Members.

Sponsorship plays a crucial role in the ability for not-for-profit groups like the Hanna Indoor Rodeo Association to successfully present our rodeo that annually gives back much in the way of entertainment, economic and tourism benefits to the community.

The need for securing sponsor dollars to stage a major event like our rodeo is ongoing and requires the commitment of local, regional and national businesses, both large and small.

Your sponsorship of events like our rodeo does provide an opportunity to give back to the community, but it can represent far more. Sponsorships are available with the rodeo in several ways and can fit in to all sizes of budgets creating a powerful marketing partnership. Sponsorship provides excellent exposure with your company’s product and services promoted during the rodeo resulting in strong recognition of your company brands. Additionally, by partnering with the rodeo, further benefits can be realized through the creation of customized promotion that deliver increased traffic and awareness of business.

Please contact me if any interest at all. We have many

From the Mayor

Epic Adventures

Itrust everyone is having a good summer and getting time or maybe have plans to relax and recharge before summer ends.

The lack of precipitation is a big concern for farmers and ranchers. I truly hope that we get some much needed moisture ASAP.

July 25, 2023

For the week of July 25, 2023

Dates: July 31 - August 4

Trips to Prairie Oasis

pre-registration & payment required Theme:

Aug 3 - Register by Jul 27 Aug 8 - Register by Aug 1 Aug 15 - Register by Aug 8

Airport Closed

I hope everyone had an opportunity to celebrate Canada Day and was able to enjoy some of the Town of Hanna hosted food and activities. It was great to see so many people enjoying the events in Hector King-Hunter Park that afternoon. Later in the day, Fox Lake Park was busy with the bike parade and the excellent fireworks show.

The Hanna airport will be closed on Sat Aug 5 at 6:00 am until Mon Aug 7 at 10:00 pm for the annual drag races.

I am excited to see the number of events that are happening in our community. These events bring visitors to town. These visitors have the opportunity to experience Hanna and all we have to offer as well as spend money in our community which supports local businesses.

Events such as the 25th annual CanAm footbll game, two weekends of baseball provincial round robin play, the Gun Show, the Swim Meet, Provincial final baseball, the return of the Old-Tyme Music Jamboree, the Cruisers Drag Races, the Car Show and Drive In Movie and the Fall Fair and Parade among others. Events like these are not possible without a significant number of dedicated volunteers and corporate support from Hanna and area businesses. I want to thank all of the volunteers and businesses for making these events a reality.

Don’t forget about Music in the Park featuring live entertainment at Hector King-Hunter Park every Sunday afternoon at 4 pm until Au-

July 26 Council Information Meeting

July 28 Conversation Café

July 28-29 The Hardgrass Bronc Match

July 30 Garrett Gregory LIVE at Music in the Park

July 31 Bronze Cross Course

July 31 Canadian Swim Patrol Course

August 1 Fundraiser BBQ-for Hanna Food Bank

August 2 Garth Hanlon Memorial Swim Challenge

August 4 Conversation Café

August 5 Ball Hockey Tournament

August 5-7 Drag Races

August 6 Bobby Grosse LIVE at Music in the Park

August 8 Town Council Meeting

August 10 Book Club-Discussion: Just Mercy

August 11 Conversation Café

August 11 Fall Fair

September 12 Council Meeting

September 14 Book Club Discussion: Nineteen Minutes

September 15 Conversation Café

September 15-16 Indoor Pro Rodeo

September 22 Conversation Café

September 23 Rummage Sale

September27 Council Information Meeting

September 29 Conversation Café

October 10 Tentative Date for Compost Pick Up

Epic Adventures in in full swing with games, food, music, swimming, trips and special events for children ages 5-12 years. There’s a new theme each week to keep campers interested. Hours are Mon - Thurs 9 am to 4 pm and Fri 9 am to noon.

Remember to check the Community Event calendar on the Town website for details and to -

Remember to feel free to reach out to me with any concerns or issues you may have.

Respectfully, Danny Povaschuk, Mayor

Epic Adventures

hanna.ca/epic

Dates: July 31 - August 4

Theme: Dreamland

Dates: August 8 - 11

Theme: Retro Recapture

Trips to Prairie Oasis

Aug 3 - Register by Jul 27

Aug 8 - Register by Aug 1

August 11 Fall Fair Parade

August 11 Cruise Night & Drive-In (Back to the Future)

August 12 Ladies 3 Person Scramble Golf Tourn.

August 12 Show and Shine

August 13 Dean Ray LIVE at Music in the Park

August 15 Chamber of Commerce Golf Tourn.

August 16 Caregiver Support Coffee Group

August 18 Conversation Café

August 20 El Mule LIVE at Music in the Park

August 25 Conversation Café

August 26 2 Person Scramble Golf Tourn.

August 26 Cornhole Tournament

Garth Hanlon Memorial Swim Challenge

Aug 15 - Register by Aug 8

Financial assistance may be available through the Hanna Community Youth Fund or payment plans can be arranged. Children must be registered to attend.

Theme of the Week

Jul 24-28 All Around the World

Jul 31-Aug 4 Dreamland

Aug 8-11 Retro Recapture

Aug 14-18 All Stars

Garth Hanlon Memorial Swim Challenge

Aug 21-25 Carnival Don’t Miss This….

Registration Fair Wed Sept 6, ‘23

August 27 Eva Levesque LIVE at Music in the Park

August 27 Final Public Swim

August 28 Paws in the Pool

August 30 Council Information Meeting

August 31 Property Taxes Due

September 1 Conversation Café

On Aug 2 starting at 6:30 am come to the pool and log in your lengths in memory of this community builder. Donations accepted towards swim equipment.

September 8 Conversation Café

July 25, 2023

5:30-7:00 Community Centre - 503 5 Ave West

On Aug 2 starting at 6:30 am come to the pool and log in your lengths in memory of this community builder.

Donations accepted towards swim equipment.

September 9 Teen Activity Fair and Dance

September 9 Hand Hills Little Britches Rodeo

September 11 Tax Recovery Public Auction

July 25, 2023 Hanna Swim Courses

pre-registration & payment required

On Aug 2 starting at 6:30 am come to the pool and log in your lengths in memory of this community builder.

Airport Closed

Be in the know …. about the events, activities and groups that you can be involved with this fall & winter. This is a great opportunity to promote your organization, take registrations, or enlist new members!

To reserve contact the Town Office before Sept 1 (403) 854-4433 or email admin@hanna.ca

Events have been submitted by organizers. Details can be found at hanna.ca/event

The Hanna airport will be closed on Saturday, August 5 at 6:00 am until Monday, August 7 at 10:00 pm for the annual drag races.

Donations accepted towards swim equipment.

Airport Closed The Hanna airport will be closed on Sat Aug 5 at 6:00 am until Mon Aug 7 at 10:00 pm for the annual drag races.

The Hanna airport will be closed on Sat Aug 5 at 6:00 am until Mon Aug 7 at 10:00 pm for the annual drag races.

Hanna Swim Courses

George Hanlon Memorial Swim Challenge

July 25, 2023 Hanna Swim Courses Register at hanna.ca/register Bronze Cross Jul 31 - Aug 3 8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Hanna Swim Courses Register at hanna.ca/register

at hanna.ca/register Bronze Cross Jul 31 - Aug 3 8:00 am - 1:00 pm

Bronze Cross

July 31-August 3

8 am - 1 pm Canadian Swim Patrol

Jul 31 - Aug 4 9:00 am - 10:30 pm Canadian Swim Patrol

Canadian Swim Patrol Airport Closed

July 31-August 4 9 am-10:30 pm

Jul 31 - Aug 4 9:00 am - 10:30 pm

On August 2 starting at 6:30 am, come to the pool and log your lengths in memory of this community builder.

Donations accepted towards swim equipment.

Garth Hanlon Memorial

Garth Hanlon Memorial Swim Challenge

The Hanna Seals hosted a Regional Swim Meet on July 15. | PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST

SCHS teacher retention issues lead to virtual learning

BY JORDAN PARKER jordan@oyenecho.com

It’s been a months-long process at Oyen’s South Central High School to hire teachers to fill vacant positions, but two courses will be taught virtually as retention efforts come up short.

SCHS Principal Jason Duchscherer says the Prairie Rose School Division and his school have “really tried” to hire a teacher for math and science courses next school year, but they had to make a tough choice.

“We have been trying to hire since March, and it’s been a struggle. This isn’t unique to us – There are plenty of math and science jobs in the province unfilled,” he said.

“It’s the end of the school year, and we needed a plan. Our math, chemistry and physics will be taught by a teacher in Medicine Hat and a teacher in Burdett,” said Duchscherer.

“Prairie Rose will allow Mrs. Hagens to sit in on classes in physics and chemistry, and she will build capacity for the future.”

They are still determining who will be in the room for math, but they do know the teacher instructing the SCHS

students will make multiple visits to Oyen as well. The teachers will not oversee classes during their timeslots with Oyen other than pupils at SCHS.

“It seems there’s just a large shortage overall in science and math in the province, and it’s been difficult to fill,” said the Principal.

The school is also looking for a full-time phys-ed teacher and a coach for their South Alberta Hockey Academy.

“We’ve posted the job, gone to social media, talked to the Deans of Education in the Maritimes about bringing graduates in, and have sent job ads to Medicine Hat College, the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary and more,” he said.

“Unfortunately, a lot of young people right now aren’t overly excited to move to rural areas unless they grew up in rural areas themselves. It’s harder and harder to get them in.”

Prairie Rose School Division’s Chief Deputy Superintendent Mark Heinricks says it’s been difficult to get teachers in rural areas, period, and it’s not just Oyen.

“It’s just hard getting teachers to come. They have to sign, try to find housing or rentals, and figure out

moving details. We are willing to help every step of the way, but then we also need to find incentives for them to stay,” he said.

“The health sector is having issues with retention too. My understanding is this isn’t just Oyen. The new generation would rather live in urban centres. Lethbridge and Calgary schools have tons of applications. If teachers aren’t willing and wanting to come to these areas, we have to keep working and finding incentives.”

He says this isn’t a new issue, but there are a lot of current openings within the school system. He says the choice to go remote wasn’t made lightly.

“We know in-person learning is best. But we can’t wave a wand and put bodies in place. It’s the same with something like buses for students – We’d love to provide more coverage, but we have no drivers. We’re working hard, and maybe we will be more proactive about reaching out to new grads in the future,” he said.

“We do try to stay away from video conference, but this is a new initiative, and these teachers are designated to these specific classes. These are their teachers. Also, having teachers from

within the Oyen school sit in will allow for more expertise and capacity within for future years.”

The school managed to hire an English teacher, and at the time of the interview with Principal Duchscherer, he was getting ready to look at a home with the new hire. But as of this writing, the math and science courses will come remotely, and a phys-ed and hockey coach haven’t been hired.

“We did manage to get the shop position filled. Jack Fields had retired, but is coming back first semester to teach. Our English teacher is getting married, and their fiance is in the RMCP. They moved to the Northwest Territories. Our math and chemistry teacher went on maternity leave, our hockey instructor got a huge new job, and our shop and physed teacher always wanted to move back up north, and got a role in Spirit River. It’s just been strange timing,” he said.

Last year, a math and science teacher left, the Principal was replaced, and another math teacher left. Last year was three hires, and this year is another four. But the Principal says Oyen is not in a different position than many schools.

“Brooks, Leduc, and other areas have jobs open. They’re even closer to city centres, which makes it harder for us. We really have tried so many things. We’ve been working with council, and they’re helping, too,” he said.

“I understand people may be worried or upset. Rightfully so. Healthcare and education are huge building blocks in a community, and we’re struggling with recruiting. We are doing what we can.”

He stands behind the teachers who have been hired to do video conferencing and says they will do a great job with students.

“They’re well-accomplished, and they won’t have students in front of them and on the screen. It’s only South Central kids, and it’s as close to getting a teacher in that room as possible. Then having another teacher in the room to build capacity – That’s unheard of,” he said.

“Video conferencing will work. I’ve seen it be successful. People are afraid of the unknown, and we get that. We will do everything to make this a success in our community.”

23071TT1

OPINION: Check it out

Why a true story receives media criticism

BY JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com

Someonespeculated the tenth movie in the Fast and Furious franchise might be called “Fas-ten (Fast 10) your seatbelts”.

I recently watched another movie entitled “Sound of Freedom.” In spite of being a low-budget independent film, it is very well done. I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to watch it when it’s showing here in August.

Movies based on true stories usually inflate the facts, but not this time. Tim Ballard, founder of Operation Underground Railroad (OUR), rescuing children from child traffickers, attests that it’s all true, although a more condensed story. And yet, much of the mainstream media is discouraging people from watching it. After viewing the movie, I asked myself why would a true story about child trafficking receive media criticism?

Washington Post said, “Sound of Freedom has been accused by some critics of warping the truth about child exploitation and catering to conspiracy theorists - something its distributor, Angel Studios, denies.”

CBC’s pop culture critic, Radheyan Simonpillai, chose to criticize the people who view the film rather than the film itself. That may be because he hasn’t actually seen the movie. Nevertheless, he claimed the film attracts pro-lifers and those who follow right-wing personalities or conspiracy theorists. The TV hosts were chuckling while discussing the film on CBC Airplay.

The host continued to say that OUR’s political goals make it something that conspiracy theorists would rally around. And yet child trafficking and Sound of Freedom are both not interested or involved in politics.

Meanwhile, a CBC headline about another movie read: “Netflix film Cuties becomes target of politicized backlash.” CBC encouraged people to watch the film showing pre-teen girls in provocative attire, without judging.

Sound of Freedom’s producer, Eduardo Verastegui, said eight years ago Tim Ballard, founder of OUR, was praised by the media for the success of the operation depicted in the movie. In 2014 CBS showed actual

footage of OUR renting an island house, raking it with hidden cameras, coordinating with Columbia’s authorities and arresting traffickers.

In 2023, the same media discouraged people from watching this film, and they all share the same talking points. So what has changed? In an online interview, Eduardo said he believes it’s because the culture has changed.

CNN claimed the film implies that people like Tim Ballard and the ticket buyers can bring these child trafficking rings down. But after hearing those media comments, I asked myself another question: “Why would raising awareness about child trafficking be criticized by the media?” Isn’t raising awareness a step in the right direction, which will help introduce change?

It is hoped that North Americans, who are the largest consumers of child pornography, will receive a wake-up call, realizing they are the problem. It is hoped that whistleblowers will step forward. It is hoped that more people will use their spheres of influence to address the

problem. Some already have done so.

In 2017, actor Ashton Kucher reported to the US Senate. He is chairman and co-founder of Thorne. “We build software to fight human trafficking in the exploitation of children,” Kucher said. “I’ve seen video content of a child the same age as mine being raped by an American man who was a sex tourist in Cambodia.”

Meanwhile, Tim Ballard has been doing numerous interviews online. In a recent interview, he said miraculous events happen when they take one step forward. In February 2022, Tim’s wife insisted he go to Ukraine to rescue war orphans. When his team arrived, they discovered a pedophile ring out of Holland trafficking kids into Mexico, Ecuador and Miami. In just four months, they took down five leaders of a group and discovered a child sex hotel in Ecuador.

“This turned into a four-part miniseries documentary that is coming out, produced by Mel Gibson,” he added. “That’s a miracle!”

Meanwhile, CNN claimed Sound

of Freedom was created out of moral panic. The broadcaster said, “You aren’t just watching a movie. You are helping bring down a pedophile ring. It’s not true, but it’s a very comforting, warm feeling to have.”

Yet I’m reminded of an old saying: “The only thing necessary for evil to triumph in the world is that good people do nothing.”

Glen Beck is one of the many people who “did something”; he helped fund the non-profit organization OUR. On his online podcast, he recalled words spoken by the late Billy Graham.

Billy said regular people will say they don’t have any tools. But they don’t have to complete the whole puzzle; they only need to do their piece. “We will see a mosaic of all the little people who have just been obedient in their little ways in their circle of influence,” Billy told Glen. “And God will put it all together in a wonderful mosaic.”

Although you and I won’t be taking down a pedophile ring any time soon, we all can do our part to protect and pray for children.

Your West Central Voice • The Kerrobert Chronicle

Issued Tuesdays

Harvest Sky Sentinel • The Oyen Echo Issued Wednesdays by Your Southwest Media Group from the office at 603 Main Street, P.O. Box 727, Kindersley, SK S0L 1S0

Special Areas Wraps Up 2023 Ratepayer Meeting Tour

Special Areas Advisory Council wrapped up 2023 annual ratepayer meetings on June 28 with the Special Area No. 3 meeting in Cereal. These public meetings give residents a chance to meet with Administration and Advisory Councillors right in their communities. Beginning each May, the annual ratepayer meeting “tour” translates to over 1,200 kilometers traveled throughout the Special Areas!

Annual ratepayer meetings have been a part of how Special Areas connects since the early days of the Board. Members of the public are an important part of municipal decision-making. Special Areas uses ratepayer meetings to hear directly from the public on priorities and issues that should be addressed. Ratepayer motions are one way the public shares feedback with Advisory Council. These motions can be remarkably diverse, ranging from individual concerns on specific projects to larger policy and program considerations. Motions made at 2023 meetings included a range of topics from agricultural rental and lease rates to changes to brush control to ongoing advocacy for medical recruitment and retention in the region. These motions give important insights into areas of concern and will be reviewed by Advisory Council at their next meeting.

Information presented at annual ratepayer meetings is posted on the Special Areas website. This includes audited financial statements, newsletters, presentations, and public reports. At the 2023 meetings, administration shared updates on the tax recovery land sale policy, breaking restrictions on native prairie, upcoming public consultation on land use, and partnership work with municipalities. Advocacy work being done by Special Areas and municipal partners on health care worker retention and recruitment was discussed at many of these meetings. This work was highlighted by members of the public as being a critical part of addressing these challenges and thanked Special Areas for stepping into this issue. Administration also shared information on partnership work in the region, including phase 2 of the regional irrigation project and revenue sharing with urban municipalities.

Ratepayers are encouraged to reach out to their Advisory Council member if they were not able to attend their local ratepayer meetings and have an issue or concern. The next meeting of the Special Areas Advisory Council is planned for early fall. More information on Advisory Council members is available at https://specialareas.ab.ca/about/ board-and-advisory-council/.

Special Areas Declares Agricultural Disaster

On July 12, 2023, the Special Areas Board declared a state of agricultural disaster for Special Area No. 2, 3, & 4. Prolonged drought conditions continue to create significant challenges for producers in the region.

It is the second time the Special Areas has declared an agricultural disaster in over 20 years.

“Dry conditions are not new to the Special Areas, but ongoing moisture deficiencies and hot temperatures have devastated crops and pasture throughout the region. Producers are struggling to find enough grass, water, and feed for their cattle. Farmers are facing widespread crop failures. Significant grasshopper infestations are making a very difficult situation worse in many parts of the Special Areas. Declaring an agricultural disaster is one way we can raise awareness of how serious this problem is with the province and with the federal government.”

Jordon Christianson, Chair

The Special Areas covers over five million acres in east-central Alberta, and the region has been dealing with significant moisture deficiencies for years. Special Areas declared an agricultural disaster in 2021, and the region has continued to face persistent shortages of spring runoff, precipitation, and severe drought conditions. The lack of spring runoff this year amplified these existing challenges as regular water sources which had already dried up did not

fill. The ongoing lack of precipitation and hot temperatures, especially during the earlier part of the growing season, have caused widespread crop failures, degrading pasture conditions, and stock water shortages. Producers are seeing wide-ranging crop losses on hay, pasture, range, and field crops. Consecutive years of severe drought in the region have already begun to force many producers to destock herds due to lack of pasture and feed.

Declaring a municipal agricultural disaster does not impact Special Areas financially but brings recognition to the difficult situation local producers are facing. The Board is looking to provincial and federal governments to provide information on agriculture relief programs in response to crop failures and persisting drought conditions. The Board appreciates the work the province has been doing to help producers access alternate feed sources, including the recent announcement by AFSC to double the low yield threshold to allow crops to be salvage for livestock feed.

Producers are encouraged to reach out to their Agricultural Fieldman for resources on managing pastures and water supplies during drought conditions. For further insurance or Agricultural Disaster program information contact AFSC at 1-877-899-2372 or visit their website www.afsc.ca.

The Cereal Sports Day 2023, sponsored by the Prairieland Athletic Association, was a success by the looks of all the activity. 115 ballplayers plus their families and fans descended on the Cereal Sports Grounds for a weekend of ball. The grounds were covered with trailers of all shapes and sizes. A couple of food venues were kept busy keeping everyone fed - burritos, hamburgers and hot dogs were the orders of the day. Ice cream and freezies were very popular to help cool down. There was even a lemonade stand located in town. On Saturday the draw for the BC Houseboat trip was won by The Dying Quails. Final winners for the tournament and the various other draws done on Sunday will be available on the Prairieland Athletic Association Facebook page.

PHOTOS BY KATE WINQUIST

Fresh faces in world of sports

The world of sports continues to supply fans with fresh new faces, extraordinarily talented athletes who sometimes hit the headlines and then fade away, or hit the headlines and become legends.

Every week, it seems, new names show up in the world of sports, and here are just a few of them:

• Elly De La Cruz is Major League Baseball’s newest sensation, knocking even Shohei Ohtani from the headlines for a day or two. De La Cruz is a rookie sensation with the Cincinnati Reds who hit a home run in his second MLB game on June 7, hit for the cycle two weeks later, is one of the fastest players in baseball, plays defence like a demon and just before the all-star break, he stole second, third and home within a two-pitch sequence. He’s this year’s Ronald Acuna, Jr.

• Victor Wembanyama is the 7-foot-5 basketball star from France who was the No. 1 pick in the recent NBA draft, going to the San Antonio Spurs. Introduced to North America competition by playing in the NBA’s Summer League in Las Vegas, Wembanyama made headlines off the court when he and his security people and would-be autograph seeker Britney Spears got into a minor dustup in a crowded entrance to a Vegas casino. Wembenyama scored only nine points in his debut but then hit for 27 in his second game to confirm that,

BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist

yes, he’s pretty good.

• Oliver Moore is not a household name like Connor Bedard, but Moore was also a first-round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks this year. He went 19th overall and was generally regarded as the best skater available in the draft. Moore and Bedard are buddies already, and while Moore will likely play another season or two at the University of Minnesota, the Moore-Bedard combo in Chicago could play out for years like the Toews-Kane duo did for a decade in the Windy City.

• Canadian golf fans love to root for Brooke Henderson, and with good reason, but there’s a new

‘it’ player in the women’s game — American Rose Zhang. The 20-year-old played at Stanford, winning two straight NCAA individual titles, captured the 2020 U.S. women’s amateur, won her first event as a professional in June, and subsequently posted top-10s in her first two majors, the KPMG Women’s PGA and the U.S. Open. The Zhang hype is well deserved.

• Is Summer Macintosh like a fish in human form? We’ll find out for certain at this month’s world aquatic championships in Japan, as the Canadian swimmer is entered in four events — all of which she could win. The 16-year-old Toronto swimmer made a big splash on the world stage last year, winning two golds and two other medals at the world championships, and this year’s event in Japan will be the final major gathering of the planet’s best swimmers prior to next summer’s Paris Olympics. It could also be Summer’s Paris Olympics.

• Nick Canepa of The San Diego Union-Tribune, on Las Vegas being awarded the 2028 Final Four: “It wasn’t long ago the NCAA would have gone to Ukraine, played outdoors and put images of Putin on players’ singlets before placing their big deal in Southern Nevada.”

• Golf journalist Geoff Shackelford, on the eve of the Senate hearing into the PGA Tour-PIF partnership: “As the final men’s major begins its descent toward greater Liverpool, the PGA Tour’s de facto leadership will make a Senate committee case for turning the professional schedule over to some dude who likes to be called His Excellency. It’s grim.”

• Shackelford again, describing

Yasir Al-Ramayyan, head of the Saudi Arabian PIF fund: “As soon as he starts talking, (he) makes most upright adults wanna dive headfirst into a snakefilled pool full of Clorox.”

• Thomas Carrieri on Twitter: “Barry Bonds was so dominant he once got internationally walked during a Home Run Derby.”

• Eamon Lynch of Golfweek.com., on the difficulty PGA Tour players are having in understanding the Tour-Saudi Arabian PIF partnership: “Trust is a precious commodity in commerce, but in the present-day PGA Tour it’s more scarce than snow in the Sahara.”

• Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle, after temperatures hit 110 degrees Fahrenheit in Las Vegas, the proposed new home for the Oakland A’s: “If I played for the A’s, I’d demand to play a position that would be in the shaded portion of the field.”

• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Right-handed Elks quarterback, Taylor Cornelius, completed a rarity July 13. While being sacked, he threw a TD pass with his left hand. Unfortunately, the catch and score was by a Hamilton Ti-Cat.”

• Currie again: “Victor Wembanyama is actually seven feet, three inches, in height. Tall, but well short of all the surrounding hype.”

• Headline at the onion.com: “Bears GM Focused On Drafting Players Who Can Help Justin Fields Up After Sack”

• fark.com headline after Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., won the Home Run Derby: “Like Vladdy, like Daddy.”

Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca

PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST

nakes on a plain Rattlesnakes

are an important piece to the prairie ecosystem

The unmistakeable sound of a rattlesnake is ubiquitous with our collective perception of the Wild West. It probably isn’t the first – or even the first hundred – things most people, or even the average Canadian, would identify as a symbol of the Great White North. But perhaps it should be. There are very few creatures that have fought as hard to survive such inhospitable conditions as Canada’s remaining three species of rattlesnake.

The northern pacific rattlesnake exists in the Okanagan Valley in BC. The massasauga rattlesnake is a dwarf species found in extreme southern Ontario. Ontario used to have Canada’s fourth species, the timber rattlesnake, but thanks to persecution and habitat loss, it was listed as officially extirpated in 2008.

The prairie rattlesnake, Crotalus viridis, ranges along the river valleys of southern Alberta, and in two separate populations within southwest

Saskatchewan. It extends southward through the U.S., and into northern Mexico. It has one of the largest ranges of all of rattlesnake species, which debunks the most commonly repeated myth about this shy reptile.

MYTH: Canadian rattlesnakes are not as venomous as their more southern counterparts.

Reality: Canadian rattlesnakes are just as venomous as all other members of their own species, regardless of where they live. Would a grizzly bear be more dangerous in

Montana than Alberta? Perhaps only if it had to vote in a presidential election, or if it was rabid.

It is the same with snakes. A prairie rattlesnake in Alberta likely poses the same risk as one in Colorado where last year, a six-year-old died after being bitten. However, most envenomations do not result in fatalities, thanks to prompt treatment with anti-venom.

Myth: Rattlesnakes will chase you if you encounter them.

The bullsnake (left) has round pupils, a narrow tail and a small head. The western hognose (centre) is rarely encountered, but does a pretty good job of mimicking its venomous relative at first glance, but look at the upturned nose, which the hognose uses to burrow into the ground. Note that both bullsnakes and hognose snakes have round pupils while the rattlesnake (right) has elliptical pupils, and a head-sensing pit between just below the nostril. The rattlesnake also has a triangular-shaped head, whereas the other two do not, though the hognose will try its best to flatten and triangulate its head similar to a rattlesnake as part of its defense posture.

The end of a rattlesnake’s tail is composed of specialized scales that when shed, adhere to the end of the rattle and form a segment. Be careful though – not all rattlesnakes have rattles. Sometimes they break their rattles, and new-

This is the classic “don’t tread on me” pose, and that’s what it means – “I am here, please don’t step on me or eat me.” A general rule of thumb is that they can strike a distance of up to 2/3 their body length. If you encounter one, take

Dens: This group of snakes will share a home for several months as they wait for winter to pass. Rattlesnakes return to their dens in late summer, and emerge from them in early spring. They will remain near the den site basking in the sun on warm days until it is warm enough for them to disperse to their summer feeding grounds, although a few may remain at or near the den all summer. During the winter, the snakes do not eat and they will share their den space with garter snakes, bull snakes, and even mammals peacefully.

The prairie rattlesnake was made for grassland living, with nearly perfect camouflage to match the

SHERI MONK Snakes on a Plain

They rely on impressive defensive displays and camouflage to protect them. In 99.9999% of encounters, they will assume a defensive posture while trying to retreat. If you encounter a rattlesnake, simply take a few steps back, snap some awesome photos, and carry on.

MYTH: All that rattles is cold.

Reality: While they rely on the environment to govern their temperature, they don’t like it much hotter than you. If they stay in the heat for too long, they suffer ill effects. You are very unlikely to encounter a rattlesnake in direct sunlight for long in temperatures above 25ºC. When it is hot and sunny, they seek refuge in holes or in cool shady spots.

MYTH: Rattlesnakes lay eggs and are prolific breeders.

Reality: Many snakes do lay eggs, but rattlers actually give live birth, typically in late summer. A clutch of young usually numbers 4-13, but most do not survive. Additionally, females in northern latitudes may only reproduce once every two, three or even four years, and it takes 5-7 years for females and 3-5 years for males to mature sexually. As a result, the reproduction rate is exceptionally low in Canada.

MYTH: If bitten, suck the poison out.

Reality: NO. Like most rattlesnake venom, prairie rattler venom predominantly affects and destroys tissues like skin and muscle. Sucking the venom out has never been demonstrated to improve outcome, and may magnify tissue damage. Do not use a tourniquet. If bitten, remain calm and call 9-1-1.

Research has shown that approximately 20 per cent of defensive bites from rattlers are “dry” and no venom is injected. This is because venom production is resource-intensive and takes approximately three weeks to replenish after being used. Rattlesnakes hunt in ambush, they strike their prey quickly, and then they slowly follow as it dies, unless it is a bird, which they know to hang onto. They do not constrict their prey, so if they’re out of venom, they’re out of luck.

Myth: Baby rattlesnakes are more dangerous than adults.

Reality: Venom composition can change during different life stages, but there is no evidence for this claim. While you don’t want to be bitten by any rattlesnake, the larger the snake, the larger the venom yield – it’s the dose that makes the poison and larger snakes have larger ven om glands. This myth probably originated from some misinterpreted information about new born rattlesnakes, who prey on invertebrates which don’t have to be subdued by venom. As a result, baby rattlesnakes will envenomate defensively 100 per cent of the time, but their venom yield is so low that it is much less likely to cause grave effects such as the adults will cause with their massive venom loads.

Myth: Rattlesnake populations can grow and spread anywhere.

Reality

our river valleys because of the type of earth they need for adequate dens to overwinter in. In fact, individuals have a high fidelity to the den they

were born near, and when dens are destroyed naturally or by man, entire populations may be lost as they will not find a new den.

Myth: Bull snakes and rattlesnakes are interbreeding, creating a more dangerous hybrid.

False: Bull snakes lay eggs and rattlesnakes give live birth. Their reproductive systems are much different and this simply isn’t possible. Cows and horses are more closely related than bull snakes and rattlesnakes.

Myth: Rattlesnakes are evil.

Reality: Snakes definitely got a bad rap from the good book, but they’re no different from any other animal. In fact, there is more and more research being done that demonstrates social and intelligent behaviour among rattlesnakes, including protecting unrelated young from possible threats by ushering them down the entrance of a den. Published studies also reveal they make friendships with other individuals, continually seeking their besties out year after year to bask with.

The prairie rattlesnake is a unique and important part of the grasslands ecosystem. If you’re lucky enough to observe one, simply stand 14 feet away, and that snake will usually go about its business while you enjoy the encounter. Try to avoid hitting them on the road. They can be easily and safely ushered off the road by gently prodding them with a broom or long snow brush.

There aren’t many regions left that still host pronghorn, black widows, scorpions, rattlers, cacti, sagebrush and monster mule deer – and this incredible habitat is shrinking every year. We can all play a role in conserving this species by understanding it, and educating others about their special place on the prairie.

For more information, visit snakesonaplain.ca

VITALS

Average length: Average 3.3’, record 4.97’.

Colouration: Yellow, beige, green, brown, olive with blotched patterning.

Lifespan: 15-25 years

Diet: Rodents, birds, insects

Mimics: In Alberta and Saskatchewan, you may encounter also bull snakes, plains garter snakes, wandering garter snakes and plains

BYEMOOR

ENDIANG NEWS

Les and Rosemary Stulberg

Mark your calendars for the Endmoor Ball Tournament (formerly called Byemoor Slo-Pitch Tournament) on August 18 – 20 in Byemoor. If you haven’t already entered your team, be sure to contact Rae at 403-741-6375 as soon as possible.

The weekend also includes fireworks, pancake breakfasts, parade, Kid’s Carnival, a dance and a concession on site. A weekend the whole family can enjoy.

On July 7, a group of classmates who went to school together in Endiang and Byemoor and who are 70 or turning 70 this year gathered in Byemoor for a reunion. They had an excellent turnout, with 17 of the class of 22 able to join in, plus their spouses for a day of visiting and reminiscing. Attending were: Danny Belcsewski, Jim Wasdal, Mike Bates, Gordon Kobi, Allen Walker, Robert Buchwitz, Jack Boehlke, Russ Kobi, Frank Gorjans, Rick Schofer, Barb (Hunt) Paetz, Gail (Pattinson) Fourie, Vicki Roberts, Wanda (Nixon) Wilkie, Shirley (McMillan) Stevens, Doreen (Schuler) Nixon and Linda (Mohn) Kobi.

Classmates unable to attend were Sandy (James) Fehr, Joann (Campbell) Gonda, Linda (Smith) Conners, Brian Hanning, John Pogmore and Henry Mappin.

The Schultz campout and pancake breakfast weekend was well attended and enjoyed on the July 14 – 16 weekend at the Schultz farm south of Endiang.

About 10 RVs camped for the weekend, and many folks joined in for all or part of the weekend.

A fantastic set of fireworks lit the night sky on Saturday evening. Sunday morning, everyone enjoyed a pancake breakfast cooked up by the family. This was followed by the Great Endiang Balloon Race, which saw a number of tagged balloons released. Last viewed, the balloons could be seen travelling in a north-westerly direction. Hopefully, some of them will be located and reported to see how far they travel. In past balloon launches, some balloons were reported found in some of the northeast U.S. states.

Dry Land Butchering

Sunday afternoon also featured the Frisbee Golf Tournament, with the winners being — First – Jeff Crawford and Jacky Chop (both of Calgary), Second – Greg Chop (Calgary) and Michele Toews (Hanna) and Third – Kai Tucker (Endiang) and Lexie Olesen (Hanna). The honest golfer award (high score) went to Camryn Olesen (Hanna) and Julia Burgemeister (Ardrossan).

Rodeo fans have enjoyed watching the Calgary Stampede, which wrapped up July 16 and were extremely pleased with the strong Canadian performances in the finals, with Canadians winning four of the six major events, including Stettler’s Beau Cooper winning Tie-down Roping Champion. They did Canada proud.

Chuckwagon fans were thrilled to see Layne MacGillivray of Halkirk named winner of the 100th anniversary chuckwagon finals race. Layne was also the recipient of the prestigious Guy Weadick Award. Congratulations, Layne.

When travelling past MacGillivray’s along Highway 855 between Endiang and Halkirk, it is always interesting to see Layne training his horses or seeing his (now Champion) horses grazing pas-

Happy Birthday wishes are sent to John Kisser celebrating his 92nd birthday on July 19. Enjoy your day, and best wishes for many more, John. Happy 65th Birthday wishes are extended to Gordon Duncan, celebrating his special milestone of July 21. Enjoy being on the government payroll,

“The Middle Ages were called the Dark Ages because there were too many knights.”

“I want to be a doctor, but I don’t have enough

“Why are bananas so good? They got appeal.”

Niblock

John F. Stodalka, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Herrmann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen, Ashley D. Herrmann, Mario M. Mudri

will be open commencing at 1:00 p.m.

Ashley D. Herrmann and Mario M. Mudri in attendance on WEDNESDAY

Lanfine Wind Project provides lift for Oyen

BY JORDAN PARKER jordan@oyenecho.com

said.

in South-Eastern Alberta was welcoming,” he said.

The completion of Pattern Energy’s Lanfine Wind Project will see Oyen and area reap the financial benefits of a years-long undertaking.

“A concept was brought to Bowark, things transitioned, and approval of permits happened in January 2021. Then construction started, and it all became very real.”

The company’s first wind project in Alberta and 11th wind-powered facility in the nation features Vestas V150 4.3 MW turbines and can generate clean energy for 30,000 homes in the province.

Renz says the area around Oyen has excellent wind and made it suitable for a project of this magnitude.

ect won’t work. We’re happy to work with these landowners.”

Renz says Pattern is committed to the area, and even more great things are coming.

these turbines. You could have the perfect site, but if no one wants to host the towers, your project won’t work. We’re happy to work with these landowners.”

Renz says Pattern is committed to the area, and even more great things are coming.

“This feels great. We’re the little engine that could,” said Adam Renz, Director of Project Development at Pattern Energy. “With COVID, it felt at different times like this project was going at so many speeds.”

“We have projects nearby happening, and this one came at the perfect time. It filled the void from the drop in the oil pipeline expansion,” he said.

“Oyen and the region was prepared to host large infrastructure. In the long-term, operating here will bring jobs to the region, and other windfarms will bring more in the future.”

“Royalties, rent payments and other things go straight into pockets. Folks will live with turbines forever, and they went through stressful parts of development with us. We will make sure people are taken care of,” he said.

“We started this in 2016, and it was stressful and dusty with construction. We were so pleased to bring this project to beautiful plans. Change was disruptive, and it was a life adjustment, but it’s good to know land owners are happy and the site is being remediated, with plants growing now.”

“Oyen and the region was prepared to host large infrastructure. In the long-term, operating here will bring jobs to the region, and other windfarms will bring more in the future.”

In a press release, Oyen Mayor Doug Jones lauded the completion of the project.

Much of the work with the Special Areas Board, permitting work, and other important aspects were done during the height of COVID, which represented a challenge.

“The Town of Oyen welcomes its continued partnership with Pattern Energy’s Lanfine Wind,” said Jones. “Pattern Energy has proven they want to be a good neighbour for the long term. We extend our gratitude for all the support shown to our local businesses. Lanfine Wind’s Community Benefits Program will provide vital support that will have a long and lasting positive impact on our entire community.”

“We did our best to communicate while following health and safety guidelines. We did what we could to give people what they needed, and it was certainly an adventure,” he said.

Renze says this represents “another way to supplement income” in a volatile industry and difficult time.

Renz said the project was originally developed by Calgary company Bowark Energy, but the project was eventually transitioned to Pattern.

“We had worked with them in Ontario and Saskatchewan for years, and having this project closer to home was big. Having regional partners who knew landowners was big. The community

“We had worked with them in Ontario and Saskatchewan for years, and having this project closer to home was big. Having regional partners who knew landowners was big. The community in South-Eastern Alberta was welcoming,” he

Truck Works Inc.

“Prices with raising cattle, sheep, hogs and anything else means prices fluctuate. Adding income from a wind farm annually allows more revenue and the chance to make times more certain,” he said.

“Our job as developers is to find good wind and land owners and families open to hosting

“Our job as developers is to find good wind and land owners and families open to hosting these turbines. You could have the perfect site, but if no one wants to host the towers, your proj-

Lanfine Wind’s 4.3 MW turbines are the most powerful in Pattern Energy’s fleet. Pattern Energy’s Lanfine Wind facility in Alberta. PHOTOS SUPPLIED

That’s a good question. Most of us think that it should be the same for everyone. But apparently, the value is quite different depending on who you are — case in point. I am sure we all heard about the five unfortunate passengers aboard the deepsea sub that imploded after roughly a minute and a half on its descent down to view the wreck of the Titanic. On board was the billionaire founder of the company and father-son passengers, each of whom paid a quarter of a million dollars for the ride. When it was certain something had gone wrong, immediate action was taken to find the doomed vessel and its passengers. Helicopters and a sonar-equipped airplane were called in, as well as Coast Guard vessels, and even a ship from France crossed the Atlantic to aid in the search. Unfortunately, all fears were confirmed when the pieces of the sub were found near the wreckage of the Titanic. The total bill to the Canadian taxpayer is far from complete, but it is calculated that the bill alone from the sonar-equipped airplane is just under $3 million.

In contrast, let’s look at another recent situa tion taking place in Winnipeg Manitoba where two bodies and possibly a third are known to be buried at the city’s garbage dump. Citing extreme

PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST

Posting Date July 17, 2023

1. WEATHER: What is the name of the hot wind that blows from the Sahara Desert to the southern coast of Europe?

2. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is the name of the condition of seeing human faces in random or ambiguous objects or patterns?

3. GEOGRAPHY: What is the only country that borders the United Kingdom?

4. THEATER: Which Broadway play features a helicopter on stage?

5. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “One Hundred Years of Solitude”?

6. MEDICAL: What is the common name for the ailment called epistaxis?

7. TELEVISION: Which TV comedy popularized the phrase “Yabba Dabba Do”?

8. MOVIES: What is the nickname that Steven Spielberg gave the mechanical shark in the movie “Jaws”?

9. HISTORY: When did the Boxer Rebellion take place in China?

Trivia Test Answerst

1. Sirocco.; 2. Pareidolia.; 3. Republic of Ireland.; 4. “Miss Saigon.”; 5. Gabriel

Garcia Marquez.; 6. Nosebleed.; 7. “The Flintstones.”; 8. Bruce.; 9. 1900.; 10. Zero.

Jean Thornton June 10, 1931 - July 4, 2023

Born on June 10, 1931, in Myrnam, Alberta to Mary and Harry Ferbey, she was the sixth of eight children. Due to hard times, she went into an orphanage in Edmonton, Alberta at the age of just two years old. She was adopted by Jerome and Emelia Keller in December of 1939 and moved to her new home on a farm near Compeer, Alberta.

Jean attended school at Compeer where she rode her best horse Trigger to school every day. Upon completion of school, she gained employment teaching correspondence at the Farming Valley, Upland, and Naco schools. She then moved to Consort and worked in the restaurant where she met Ralph Thornton in the summer of 1953. They married on June 29, 1954, and then resided in their first 4 room house on the farm near Sedalia Alberta, they built a new house on the same plot of land where she resided until moving into the Oyen Lodge in 2018. They quickly welcomed their first child Lorrie followed by Ralph, Dallas, Tracy, and Tanice.

Mom was always knitting, cooking, or cleaning, usually with a cigarette hanging out of her mouth. She was well known for her famous perogies and was scolded by her grandsons if she ever forgot them at a holiday supper. She loved to follow Ralph around the world watching him play hockey; she particularly enjoyed Japan. She did not, however, like it when someone hurt Ralph on the ice and can be remembered hitting players with her purse a time or two. She was a huge fan of all sports, there was not a hockey night in Canada she missed as I am sure the neighbours could hear as she yelled at the screen. She has gone to her grave with the secret of whether she was a true Oilers or Flames fan.

Family was by far her greatest accomplishment; family gatherings were the highlight of her life. Not a holiday ever went by when her house was not full of laughter and food. Her home was always welcoming to all visitors, and you were guaranteed to leave with a full stomach and a caffeine high. As technology evolved, she was so excited to join the world of Facebook where she could see friends and family new and old, there she learned the new skill of facetiming and as long as she had a way to communicate with her family, she was happy.

Jean was well known at all the local craft shows for her beautiful, knitted sweaters and as she aged, and her eyesight started to fail, reading the patterns was no longer possible so she would knit small blankets and toques for the NICU as well as special items for the kids at the New Brigden School. She was a shopaholic and was probably Avon’s #1 customer. A trip to Medicine Hat was never complete without a vehicle full of wool and chocolate bars. Then trying to sneak it into the house into the secret hiding spots before Papa got home from the field (usually with a bouquet of wildflowers) sometimes presented a challenge.

Jean was 92 years old but if you asked her, she was working on her 93rd year at the time

of her passing. She was an amazing wife, mother, daughter, sister, auntie, grandmother, and great Granny Goose as her great grandchildren affectionately nicknamed her.

She will be missed not only for the way she made everyone feel welcomed and loved, but also for her infectious and sometimes inappropriate sense of humour. She told us her goal at the Lodge was to leave every resident she encountered during the day with a smile, and I can guarantee she did just that. She was a woman of strong faith but quietly practiced her Catholic faith in her home never missing her nighttime prayers and always making the sign of the cross as she passed any cemetery on her travels, a trait that has been passed down too many of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Daughter Lorrie (Nelson) Tye, Son Ralph (Michele) Thornton, Daughter Tracy (Shawn) Nunweiler, Daughter Tanice Thornton and Son in Law Pat (Kay) Craney. Her Grandchildren: Riley (Savanna and children Quade, Keller, and Cabrie), Branden (Lauren), Quinten (children Keilan, Sloane, and Griffen). Kendall (Diana), Garret (Andrea and children Braxton, Paisley, and Kiptyn), Aaron (Karen Ann and children Talen, Kailyn, Georgia, and Lily), as well as their mother Vickie Christianson. Carley (Josh) Faba, and Tanner (Brianne) Thornton. Sayler (Dustin and children Madison, Emily, Rylan, and Owen) Steinke, Eboney (Ryan and daughter Monroe), and Katlin (Angel and daughter Thea). Alex Neill (daughter Emily), and Dana Neill (children Bentley and Brezlyn). Tyson (son Beckett), and April (Jackson and son Duncan) Giroux. As well as sisters-in-law Jean Skeich, Shirley Sortland and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was welcomed with open arms as she crossed over by her loving husband Ralph, daughter Dallas Craney, as well as great grandsons Elijah and Noah. Her siblings Nick, Anne (Metro) Hruschak, Kay (Urban) Knabel, Dorothy (Andy) McGaughey, Marie (Albert) Schedlosky, Bill (Tillie) Ferbey, Otto Skeich and sisters-in-law Elaine (Henry) Durksen, Eileen Carless, and brother-in-law Don Sortland.

Memorial tributes may be directed to New Brigden Community Association Box 43 - New Bridgen, AB T0J 2G0 etransfer to newbrigden@ gmail.com

Mass of Christian Burial took place on Saturday July 15, 2023 at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Oyen, AB with Father Rodel Abanto presiding.

To leave messages of condolences please goto ofsmacleans.com

Funeral arrangements in care of MacLean’s

Phone: 403-854-5956

Email: hannafuneral@telus.net cell: 403-854-0912 fax: 403-854-5955

www.hannafuneral.ca

PUBLIC NOTICE

752136 Alberta Ltd.

WATER ACT Notice of Application

Notice is given that the 752136 Alberta Ltd. has filed an application under the provisions of the Water Act for Licence to divert 833,000 cubic metres of water annually from the Red Deer River located at SW 07-023-01-W4M for the purpose of irrigation.

Any person who is directly affected by this application may submit a Statement of Concern within 30 days of the date of this notice.

To submit a Statement of Concern, sign in to the Digital Regulatory Assurance System (DRAS) using a MyAlberta Digital ID (MADI) or MyAlberta Digital ID for Business (MADI-B) account.

DRAS webpagewww.alberta.ca/digital-regulatory-assurance-system.aspx To sign up for an MADI or MADI-B account see How to access DRAS on the above DRAS webpage.

Alternatively, you may submit a written Statement of Concern to Environment and Protected Areas, Approvals Unit, 5th Floor, South Petroleum Plaza, 9915 - 108 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2G8 or by email to: aep.waapplications@gov.ab.ca

The written statement of concern should include the following:

• Quote the Case number: DAPP0026205

• Describe concerns that are relevant to matters regulated by the Water Act

• Explain how the filer of the concern will be directly affected by the activity and/or diversion of water proposed in the application

• Provide the legal land location of the land owned or used by the filer where the concerns described are believed to be applicable

• State the distance between the land owned or used by the filer and the site in the application

• Contact information including the full name and mailing address of the filer. Please provide the telephone number and email address for ease of contact.

Environment and Protected Areas will review each written Statement of Concern, seek more information if needed, and notify each filer by letter of the decision to accept or reject their written submission as a valid Statement of Concern.

Statements of Concern submitted regarding this application are public records which are accessible by the public and the applicant. Failure to file a Statement of Concern may affect the right to file a Notice of Appeal with the Environmental Appeals Board.

Copies of the application and additional information can be obtained from:

Ring Irrigation Engineering

Len Ring

Email: LRing@telus.net • Ph. 403-382-0928

Laurie Palmer Funeral Director Embalmer, Owner

ACADIA VALLEY

* Yoga in The Valley Thursdays from 7:00 - 8:00 PM in the Hall. Call/text Jamie 403-548-5146 for more info.

CEREAL

* MONDAYS - Cereal Board of Trade BINGO. Doors open 6:30 PM. Bingo starts 7:30 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.

* TUESDAYS - Cereal Cottages Weekly Coffee Time 9:30 AM

SATURDAY, JULY 29

• Cereal Mud Bog. Mud flies at noon. Adult & Kids Mud Runs - 3 person Tug of War. ATV Mud Races

* Cereal Prairie Pioneer Museum Open to the Public July & August. Call 403-326-3769 to book your private tour!

EMPRESS

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

• Empress & District Historical Society “Pub Night.” Entertainment by Sleepless Hights.

Tools 4 School Campaign

Oyen FCSS & Oyen Pharmacy welcomes your support for our Tools 4 School Campaign

Monetary donations for supply kits & School Supplies are both needed

(All schools from grades K-6 now have pre assembled kits to purchase through School Start)

A list of Items can be found at Oyen Pharmacy OR Oyen FCSS Facebook page

Please drop off items by August 25, 2023. If you feel your child(ren) or a family you know is in need of receiving school supplies, please contract: Maryann or Pam @ 403-664-2255 FCSS Office OR email: oyenfcss@telus.net

Non-profit organizations, please. Deadline for

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

• Empress & District Historical Society “Whistle Stop

OYEN

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

• Regular Pot Luck Supper and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors 6:00 PM at Seniors Centre. Mark this on your calendar for the fall. New members are very welcome.

OCTOBER 27-28

• 6th Annual Highway 41 Pheasant Festival

* Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Tuesday of every month 7:00-9:00 PM in Town Council Chambers.

YOUNGSTOWN

* Youngstown’s Back In Time Museum & Antiques Open 10-6 PM Thursday-Monday until September Long Weekend.