A grandfather leaves a lasting legacy
The memorial statue situated in Veterans Park in downtown Medicine Hat is a permanent reminder for Don Bamber of Oyen. Not only does the monument represent soldiers who died in WWI, but it was Don’s grandfather, Albert James Hart, who carved the cenotaph. It was erected in 1922. A great-granddaughter of Albert Hart, Carol (Bamber) Ritchie, collected much of the historical information about her famous relative.
At that time, Canadians in various communities wished to find some way to honour war heroes who had died overseas, so fundraising began. As a result, a war memorial committee was formed in Medicine Hat, which helped with the fundraising project, along with the Great War Veterans’ Association and the Great War Next of Kin Association. Over $4,000 was raised, which is equivalent to $59,400 in today’s currency, to be used to construct a permanent monument in Riverside Park. Everyone got involved in raising funds, including businesses, churches, service clubs, and even schoolchildren.
Don’s grandfather was given the task of constructing the monument. The Bamber grandkids recalled their grandfather coming to visit in Oyen in 1945, driving a 1939 Chrysler. Don’s brother Bob remembered taking a trip to the United States with his grandfather. He told the guard his occupation at the border crossing, and the guard asked if he had brought his tools. When his grandfather said he had his tools, the guard asked if he would carve a date on a grave marker in a nearby cemetery, which Hart willingly did. No job was too small or too insignificant for Albert Hart, even though he was a monument sculptor.
Hart had apprenticed and worked as a marble cutter after dropping out of high school to help support his widowed mother and siblings in Brandon, Manitoba. As an apprentice, he had created a life-size bust of Queen Victoria. Beginning in 1922, Hart started to advertise himself as a “monumental sculptor.” Later, in 1906, Hart and his wife and children moved to Calgary, where he started his own business.
In 1922, Hart imported slabs of granite and marble from Europe, which he used to create a 5’6” life-like statue of a soldier. The figure stood on a tapered red granite column on a grey granite base. The finished product was so successful that he was asked to build two more, one in Nanton and another in Lacombe. Those statues were similar, with the soldier being positioned in slightly different poses. Each sculpture was carved from Carrara Italian marble. These were said to be some of the Great War’s finest memorials to be found in Western Canada.
Names of soldiers who died in WWI, and succeeding wars, have their names etched into the granite of these cenotaphs. Albert Hart operated his business until 1953 and died at the age of 79 in 1957, and is buried in Calgary. Carved as his epitaph are the words “Rock of Ages, cleft for me.”
Don Bamber stands beside his grandfather’s monument in Medicine Hat. Inset: Amazing detail of the statue carved by Albert Hart. SUBMITTED PHOTOS
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Here’sa riddle:
Q: Which is the worst day for a guy to propose to his girl? A: April Fools Day!
Now, isn’t that the truth? On April Fools Day, we often don’t know if a joke is being played on us or if what is taking place is for real. However we do know that it’s no joke that the carbon tax is scheduled to increase by 33% on April 1. According to the Canada Revenue Agency, this year’s hike will increase the total federal carbon tax charge for gasoline to 8.8
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
April Fools, 2021 is no joke
cents per litre. We also know that while unemployment rates are rising in Canada, your members of parliament are giving themselves a $3,000 pay increase. And that’s not an April Fools joke; it’s for real. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation believes Canadians have made sacrifices during this past year and elected officials need to do their part as well.
One of the comments posted on social media said, “These raises should not continue every April 1. Workers, even unionized, don’t get the in-
creases they have voted for themselves. This needs to stop, along with the gold plated pension of 100% of their salary for lifetime. No one has such a pension in the private sector, and taxpayers shouldn’t be footing the bill for theirs.”
“We’re all in this together” is one of those phrases that’s been tossed around throughout the past year of restrictions. While people hunkered down inside, posters were on display stating “We’re All in this Together”. But are we really? Members of Parliament have not lost any wages
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
By Robert Blagen
Youngstown, AB • 403-779-3859
WINNING ELECTIONS: I think if the Conservatives want to win the next election, they will have to ride the old global warming horse pretty hard, because Trudeau has the voters pretty well brainwashed on the subject. There doesn’t seem to be lot of interest in any other problems or policies. The Conservatives will have to B.S. the voters into believing they can control the weather and lower the world temperatures by 2 degrees more than Trudeau. And of course, they will have to put the Carbon Tax up to
about a $1000 dollars a ton. And of course they need to hire an Environmental Minister that could spread B.S. about “Climate Change” and “Global Warming” like McKenna did. It seems every time you’d turn the TV set on, you would get an earful about how she and Trudeau were going to save the World from the terrible heat wave. I think most sane people know you can’t control the weather, but you have to use any means you can to win an election. Maybe they could hire little Greta Thunberg for their Environment Minister!
during this time; instead they are being awarded raises.
It’s also no joke that a new poll by Morning Consult says the most despised industry in North America is the film industry. One of the reasons for this may be because the entertainment industry fully embraces the cancel culture. One example is actress Jane Fonda protesting the Line 3 pipeline which has been bringing Canadian oil through Minnesota for decades. Fonda called our oil sands “the worst in the world”. Unfortunately that is a bad joke, because it is simply not true.
The carbon intensity of oil sands production is declining thanks to innovative technology and improved efficiency. In fact oil sands projects have decreased emissions intensity an average of 24 per cent since 2012. And Canada’s oil and
Letter to the Editor
Please pass on our condolences to the family of Herman Schwenk on his passing.
We loved the downto-earth wisdom and snark he shared with us in his weekly columns in The Oyen Echo. Will miss those writings.
Mary Ruth Olson New West, BC
gas sector accounts for just 0.3 per cent of global GHG emissions, and the oil sands accounts for just 0.1 percent of global emissions.
Those statistics haven’t stopped features such as the animated “The Bigfoot Family” casting the oil industry as murderous with the intent to kill animals and flooding Alaskan valleys with oil. It’s no joke that this fictitious story line could leave a lasting and misleading impression on children. That’s why it’s important to have groups like Suits & Boots and Canada Action who defend and support the oil and gas sector.
It’s vitally important for Canadians to speak up when it sounds like they’re being fooled, not just on April Fools Day but every day. Why is this important? Because the absence of freedom of speech clears a path
for discrimination and oppression to take place. People who have come to North America from developing countries know better than anyone about the risks of this progression taking place.
Many of them came to North America expecting to benefit from a democratic society, but are often disappointed when they witness a lack of free speech, which will lead to the very oppression from which they escaped.
You can contact me at joanjanzen@yahoo.com
Oyen Weekly Briefs
BY DIANA WALKER fwalker1@telus.net
All Prairie Rose Regional School Division schools (except Jenner) will be closed March 27 through April 5 for Easter break. We hope everyone has a safe and healthy break from classes.
All signs of pipeline camp life have disappeared from the west side of Oyen. The last of the mobile residences left last week.
The Oyen Division of the Highway 41 Pheasant Festival will be hosting their 5th annual Pheasant Festival this year (pending COVID-19 restrictions) on Saturday, October 23. “We will begin taking registrations on April 1,” says Charmain Snell “and we will have an Early Bird Draw for all teams that have registered and paid their registration fee by May 15. The winning team will receive a free 2022 Pheasant Festival Registration!”
Watch The Oyen Echo for more details. Their website is www.highway41pheasantfestival.com and they have a Facebook page.
Charmain goes on to say, “We are always looking for members/ volunteers. Anyone interested in getting involved is welcome to attend our next meeting on Monday, April 12. The meeting will be via Google Meet. If you would like to attend please send your contact information including your email to highway41pheasantfest@gmail. com.
The Big Country Regional Recycling Society held their meeting in the Oyen United Church basement March 21 with secretary Elaine Michaels, James Walker, chairman Manfred Schroder and Diana Walker in person and treasurer Janet Lowther joining by cell phone.
Condolences
I would like to extend
Cereal News
my personal condolences to Marcella and family on the death of her husband Herman Schwenk March 13, 2021, at the age of 90.
Herman first appeared in The Oyen Echo on page 9 of the November 9, 2004 issue when we reported the most recent inductees to the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame. Here is an excerpt from that story.
“But perhaps his greatest achievements come from the field of electrical distribution. The power companies refused to serve many parts of rural Alberta as they viewed the costs as being too great for the economic return. However, Herman worked tirelessly with the provincial government, rural electrification associations and power companies to start and keep the power flowing. Under his leadership, the Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations grew to an active organization. Driving down a rural road and seeing the power lines spreading across the land, one cannot help but be reminded of Herman’s invaluable contributions, and how he helped make rural Alberta a better place to live and do business. He truly helped shine the light for and on rural Alberta.”
The earliest Prairie View column I can find in The Oyen Echo was November 11, 2014, but he may have contributed prior to that date. He always ‘shone’ his light on issues not only important to him but to many of our readers. He never backed down from what he believed but was always willing to listen to other points of view.
I will cherish his memory; I will miss his phone calls and reading his opinions. The Oyen Echo was grateful to share his last column with his readers in the February 8, 2021
March 29-April 4
Happy birthday to Leslie Girletz, Ray Girletz, Brooklyn Pagenkopf, Earl Fraser, Garret Thornton, Brenda Barr, Stephen and Emma MacNutt, Gayle Pederson, Nathan Daley, Neilene Cote, Oaklan Nelson, Angela Paterson, Bryan Shier, Catlan Olsen, Roland McNiven, Cliff Holt, Ryan Mackenzie, Riley Tye.
Happy anniversary to Carl and Wendy Dziatkewich, Morris and Annette
issue. His wish was to stimulate discussion and debate among the public and to keep his brain active. He accomplished that and much more.
Sympathy is extended to the Barker family as well as Anderson relatives on the death of Verna Barker on March 12, 2021, in Red Deer after adversity with COVID-19. She was 97, being a widow for 25 years. Born on a hillside farm north of Excel to Ezekial and Elsie Anderson she was predeceased by her husband, daughter, son, son-in-law, parents and all her siblings except Beatrice Neidersteiner, who turned 90 in January. Raised together as a close-knit family were Lawrence, Ronald, Lamar, Irene, Gordon, Beatrice, Wesley and Floyd.
We are blessed to live in an area filled with people over the age of 90 who continue to add to the fabric of this community well beyond that marker.
March 21, 2021, at the age of 95 Elaine (Roy) Wood died at the Long Term Care Facility in Oyen. Although raised on the Hillcrest Farm south of Youngstown Elaine kept moving closer to Oyen. She married Walter in 1945 and they raised their two daughters in the Lanfine district. She became a volunteer in three communities—Cereal, Lanfine and Oyen. In 2003, after Walter’s death, she moved to a new home in Oyen, then to The Lodge in 2016 and finally the Long Term Care in 2018. Her humor and wit came a quickly as she used to drive to town for parts. She always had time not only for her family but her friends and those of her kids and grandkids. More than one community feels her loss. A remarkable lady who never said good-bye but “OK, we’re gone!”
Lupuliak.
My deepest sympathies to the family of Elaine (Roy) Wood who died March 21. Elaine and her husband Walter farmed south of Lanfine and were very active in the Cereal community. My fondest memories of Elaine and Walter were camping and fishing with them at Blood Indian Park. They always tried to book the same campsite and we always had a blast.
Acadia Valley NEWS
March 24,
Happy Easter break everyone! The kids are off a week earlier than usual this year. I’m sure everyone will enjoy the break.
The W.P.S. Parent Council is selling hanging baskets for a fundraiser. They have a variety to choose from, calibrachoas, geraniums, petunias, mixed planters, strawberries, and tomatoes. Orders are due April 19th and delivery will be May 7th, just in time for Mother’s Day.
The A.V. Diner is open Monday-Saturday for dine in or take out. Stop by and pick up a new take-out menu.
The Acadia Municipal Library is now open for short browsing and pick up ap-
Bu alo News
Reported by Lorraine Monkman 403-379-2222
It has been a long time in comingthis week I have good news to write! Congratulations to Calvin and Andrea Heiland on the arrival of their son Lane Terry Heiland on March 9, 2021. He weighed 9 lb. 3 oz and is little broth-
pointments. They will be offered from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Call the Library to schedule your appointment 403-972-3744.
The Rec. Club is still selling 50/50’s this month. The next draw will be made April 5th. You can get your tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or from a Rec. Club member.
Sending well wishes to Richard Skappak who is now home from the hospital after suffering a stroke last fall. Thanks for reading this week. I will end with a quote from Dr. Jody Carrington, “You can do anything, but not everything.”
er to big sister Brady. Best wishes to all the family including grandparents Rob and Val Heiland of Hanna. Welcome to the district is extended to Rylee (Osadczuk), Lyle and Meritt Hewitt who have recently moved to the Chip Barry place. We look forward to having you as our new neighbors.
A sad note too, as we extend sincere sympathy to Valerie and Rob Heiland on the passing of Val’s mother Emma Christman of Brooks. Condolences to all the family. Rob and Val lived at Buffalo some years ago.
New Head Coach for Badlands Baseball Academy
The Badlands Baseball Academy is pleased to announce Nolan Rattai as our Head Coach for the upcoming 2021-2022 season.
Nolan’s experience and passion for the game of baseball will be an asset to the program. He has developed excellent leadership and management skills having played at the Vauxhall Academy of Baseball, then three college baseball programs in the states, and now under the role of Head Coach/ Assistant General Manager for the Medicine Hat Mavericks.
He believes the game of baseball is an amazing way for young adults to not only gain unforgettable experiences but also learn valuable life lessons. Nolan perceives his position of a coach to pro-
vide young student-athletes with guidance to improve as an athlete and as a person buy teaching the importance of work ethic, perseverance, leadership, accountability, education, and teamwork.
Nolan describes his coaching style as charismatic, reflective, and cooperative. He is able to vary coaching methods for players recognizing their differing skills and personalities. He is able to identify each player’s unique style and make suggestions accordingly.
He embraces the importance of being a role model to athletes, and hopes to motivate his players to do their best and become tenacious in their efforts. His expectations of players are high on and off the field.
He is excited to share
his passion for baseball with his players. He plans to integrate technology into practices by using devices and apps that track a player’s mechanics allowing immediate feedback on players strengths & weaknesses and to inspire players to increase their strength & mobility with training.
Nolan has a strong belief in education for his players. He believes in continued learning and will encourage players to take pride in their studies.
Nolan views building relationships within the community as an extremely important component to the baseball program and looks forward to opportunities that lend to that.
Welcome Nolan Rattai to Oyen!
Ringer’s back! Oyen branch gearing up for Pheasant Festival
Good morning. It’s me. RINGER the pheasant from Highway 41 Pheasant Festival. It’s been awhile since I have had a chance to talk to you all. Things last year were difficult, but the Consort branch of the festival pulled off a successful hunt (2020). Thanks to them all for a job well done.
This year I am looking forward to things being a little more normal. The Oyen branch is hosting this years’ festival and are geared up to put on a top notch hunt.
The hunt will take place on Oct 23, 2021.
Registration is limited to 25 teams. Teams will get 40 of the best looking pheasant you will ever see. I should know, as I am one of them and I have been told that we are some of the best birds ever seen at festivals.
They are opening early bird registration on April 1st to end May 15/2020. Names of teams that pay for their reg-
Sports with Bruce Penton
It’sistration before then get their name put in for a draw to win a paid registration for next years hunt. Watch the Facebook page of the Highway 41 Pheasant Festival for updates. I will keep in touch as well .
I am sure that this hunt will be one to go down in the history books as we have some new young executives and they have some new things planned and the best of previous years as well.
The committee would love to hear from hunters as to anything they would like to see being done for the hunt.email me at louloumelvill@gmail.com.
You can get information on our web page as well.
We welcome anyone or business that would like to be a sponsor. Profit from festivals are put back into the community
Why did pheasant cross the road? He wanted to get to the other side! Bad, I know - will do better next time. Till then, be safe.
Does CFL need XFL to survice?
rare that the Canadian Football League makes headlines — in two countries, no less — in March, but when there’s money and merger on the line, not to mention potential for salvation and/or demise, headlines come easy.
The CFL, which abandoned its 2020 season due to the coronavirus pandemic, was in infant stages of organizing the 2021 season when Commissioner Randy Ambrosie confirmed that collaboration talks with the XFL, a hangin’-by-athread grid league in the United States, would take place. The XFL is fronted by the wildly popular Dwayne (The Rock) Johnson and his ex-wife, Dany Garcia.
“We look forward to seeing what possibilities our discussions might uncover, and to sharing those with our fans as the process unfolds,” Ambrosie said to ESPN.com’s Kevin Seifert.
Immediately, panic set in among a number of CFL followers, who love the Canadian game and its unique rules (three downs, 12 players on the field, longer and wider field, the rouge, Canadian/import player ratios) and are worried that the CFL’s demise might be
imminent if it casts its lot with an unproven entity such as the XFL.
Veteran CFL broadcaster Bob Irving of Winnipeg, who has covered the league since the early 1970s, has concerns about the CFL’s future. “I think the CFL has been seduced by the Rock’s charisma and worldwide popularity,” said Irving. “There is no harm in the CFL listening to what The Rock and his group have to offer, but if these talks lead to a merger, my worst fears will be founded. The things that make the Canadian game so unique … would all be in peril and if the failed CFL expansion to the U.S. in the 1990s proved anything, it’s that the CFL is far better off to find a solution to its problems on the north side of the border. Hopefully, a successful return to play in 2021 will allow the CFL to end this dalliance with the XFL.”
One thing the XFL does have, that the CFL covets, is money. Not playing games, or playing games without fans, is a killer for the CFL, which collects the bulk of its revenue from gate receipts. Billion-dollar TV deals exist in the U.S., but definitely not north of the border.
e Oyen Division of the Highway 41 Pheasant Festival will be hosting the 5th Annual Pheasant Festival this year (pending COVID-19 restrictions) on Saturday, October 23, 2021. We will begin taking Registrations for the Festival on April 1, 2021 and we will have an Early Bird Draw for all teams that have registered and paid their registration fee by May 15th, 2021. e winning team will receive a free 2022 Pheasant Festival Registration!
For more information see our website at www.highway41pheasantfestival.com or our Facebook page!
The XFL doesn’t plan to play in 2021, but is looking toward a restart in 2022. Whether that includes some sort of arrangement involving the CFL remains to be seen, There are two distinct views: 1. A lot of flag-waving Canadians pray for the status quo, without any American involvement; 2. A lot of flag-waving Canadians pray for the XFL’s involvement to prevent the CFL’s demise.
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have agreed to a one-year contract extension. The contract includes a $5 million incentive bonus for another drunken boat toss of the Lombardi Trophy.”
• Comedy writer Brad Dickson of Omaha: “Appar-
ently after watching too many sporting events, the Nebraska governor is about to announce that businesses can reopen ‘at 110 per cent capacity.’ ”
• Bruce Arthur of the Toronto Star, on Twitter: “Curling observation: Kevin Koe, whether winning or losing, often looks like he’s wondering if he left the stove on.”
• Patti Dawn Swansson, aka the River City Renegade, expressing skepticism about a future CFL-XFL arrangement: “Maybe they’ll make a go of it this time around. And maybe Johnny Manziel will collect as many Super Bowl rings as Tom Brady.”
• Quebec skip Mike Fournier, writing in SI/com, on one Brier game which began with five consecutive blank ends: “I think even the cardboard cutouts were napping.”
• Alex Kaseberg again: “People are either excited about filling out their NCAA brackets for the tournament or they’re not. When I told my co-worker I had Gonzaga in the semis, she suggested I should get a shot of penicillin.”
• Headline at TheOnion. com: “Report: Most NFL teams just 1 or 2 overpriced free agents away from Super Bowl victory.”
Cereal Country Cottages
We are looking to Hire a Manager to manage our 10-unit apartment building in Cereal. Job includes, admin, janitorial and routine maintenance.
Please send resume or letter of intent to: bcha@telusplanet.net
• Bob Ryan of The Boston Globe, via Twitter, on the death of middleweight icon Marvelous Marvin Hagler: “At his championship peak, he was Boston’s fifth major sports franchise all by himself.”
• Jack Finarelli, at sportscurmudgeon.com, on March Madness referees prepping for the pro ranks: “They certainly ignored enough travelling violations last night to demonstrate to the NBA mavens that they have that part of their officiating duties down pat.”
• Finarelli, who loves going through rosters of NCAA teams and then playing name games, offered up this one: “Dajuan Harris, Jr. is a guard on the Kansas team. Too bad he is not a twin; if he were, his brother could have been named ‘Da-udda-juan’.”
• Steve Simmons of Sun Media, recalling one of his favourite lines from former NHL coach Harry Neale: “Last season we couldn’t win at home. This season we can’t win on the road. My failure as a coach is I can’t think of any place else to play.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
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
e Value of Life: C-7
Final votes recently took place on Liberal Bill C-7, an act that changes the laws around Medical Assistance in Dying (also known as assisted suicide or euthanasia). Before getting into some of the specifics of this bill, I wanted to emphasize how important it is to have respect when dealing with difficult issues like this. I hear many opinions on every issue, but it is social issues like this that invoke deep emotion often based on experience. As this column delves into some of the concerns I have raised, please know I respect that not everyone agrees.
Over the last year, thousands of you have reached out and overwhelmingly there has been opposition to the Liberals’ Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) Bill. This Bill was a response to a Quebec Superior Court ruling that struck down some of the provisions of the changes the Liberals made to legalize MAiD in the last Parliament.
Here is where the problems start: instead of appealing the court decision to the Supreme Court, the Liberals went ahead and decided to make changes. This created a deadline for new legislation to be enacted, which became an issue when the Prime Minister
prorogued Parliament and used other Parliamentary tricks to delay investigations into things like pandemic spending and the WE Scandal.
Bill C-7 does not only address the issues raised in the court decision but goes much further. For example, this bill removes safeguards that ensure that this program would not be abused.
We saw during the debate that the Liberals failed in their duty to protect Canadians and were willing to play politics at every turn. While they claimed to have consulted widely and found a “clear consensus” in their legislation, the opposite is true. We heard from countless Canadians, including many disability rights advocates, First Nations communities, and health care professionals who called out the clear failures in this bill. Unfortunately, the Liberals, Bloc, and NDP blocked every Conservatives amendment that attempted to improve the Bill.
It passed the House of Commons just before Christmas, and the Senate began its deliberations. I was personally hopeful that the Senate would take the growing chorus of concerns seriously and amend the bill to include safeguards, but despite the best efforts of Conser-
BOOK Notes
WE ARE OPEN! The library is open to the public starting at 3:30PM, Monday through Thursday. Maximum 3 people/1 family at a time; no appointment necessary (but waiting may be required if over limit). Patrons are asked to wear a mask, sanitize, and fill out a basic COVID symptom checklist prior to entering the library (there is a digital sign-in stand in the hall). No washrooms available at this time.
Curbside service will continue to be available during regular library hours. Please contact the library to arrange pickup.
ADULT FICTION:
Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardner J FICTION:
vatives in the Senate they did the unthinkable… they added further provisions that put Canadians at risk, including allowing a clause that could allow people suffering from mental illness to be eligible for assisted death. This measure was endorsed by the Liberals earlier this month.
I spoke to this Bill several times, where I outlined my concerns and dismay at how a Government would be so callous in its approach to some of the most vulnerable groups in our society. I am a firm believer that Parliament the responsibility to stand up for life, and I am concerned about how this bill has the potential to end lives that should be saved.
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 403575-5625, or e-mail damien. kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek and subscribing to his e-newsletter at damienkurek.ca/subscribe. 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.
by Tricia Fischbuch
Go Packs*
Easter Pre-School Story Time Kits* (books, activity sheets, & a craft)
Book & a Movie Packs (book, movie, crossword/word search, popcorn)
Spring has officially arrived and the weather is very “spring like”. Cloudy then sunny, calm and then windy. Just hoping for some spring showers or wet snows to send some moisture our way.
Last column, I told you about the 4-H speaking presentations being held through digital means. Local youth participating in this were; Brayden, Damian, and Tanika Brockmann, Brandt and Brianna Lyster, Joelle and Olivia Mundt, Camrie,
Sibbald News
March 17, 2021
Reported by Lee Switzer
Cash, Coleman and Cooper Norris, Sydnee Pedersen, Danica and Dylan Woods. Jordan Christianson, Olivia Sederberg and Byrne Huston watched the videos and provided the members with valuable feedback to help them gain confidence with their Public Speaking! Public Speaking is such a valuable skill.
Dance studios are also learning to do things differently. Breaking Ground Studio, with Miss Tonya, are waiting until later in June or July to attend dance festivals and have a recital. Brianna and Macy Lyster dance with Breaking Ground. Wilson’s School of Dance,
under the leadership of Sherri Robertson, is hoping to attend competitions in Innisfail later. There will be no audience and the dance students have to come in prepared to dance. Only costume changes in private trailers can take place. Individual studios will dance in time blocks. There will be no mixing of students from others studios. A recital may take place depending on Covid restrictions. Joelle and Olivia Mundt dance with Wilson School of Dance. Sigh, I know its not the same, but I am happy the girls have the hope of festivals and recitals. Take care.
Oyen Lodge
Happy Spring from all of us here at the Lodge!
It is so wonderful to start seeing the nice weather outside, although a little windy, we are grateful for the sunshine and lack of snow falling! Our flowers in the activity room sure are enjoying the sunshine as they have started to bud beautiful flowers. Huge thanks to Edna for watering the plants. We are hoping to start planning and planting our community garden here at the lodge in the next few weeks.
Easter is just around the corner and we will be getting busy colouring eggs, and decorating the lodge, along with spring crafts and getting outside for walks and outdoor activities! As of now we are keeping busy with two exercise classes, three times a week, lots of card
By Sara Smith
games, large crossword puzzles, dominos, shuffleboard and bingo. We have also been extremely fortunate to have Ralph and Marvel playing music for us three times a week!
We want to give a huge shoutout and thanks to the FCSS as they have been so generous in donating four new tablets to the residents. These tablets can be used for games, e-books, movies or even to Facetime family! If you would like to Facetime a family member call the lodge and ask for Sara to help set that up!
We hope everyone has had a beautiful start to the new season, and we want to thank everyone for keeping our residents safe. It is much appreciated!
Happy Spring everyone, stay safe and healthy!!
Fire advisory issued for Special Areas
Early spring conditions, including low relative humidity levels combined with below average precipitation levels has meant an increase risk of grassfires in the region. A fire advisory was put in place on March 10 which advises all residents to take extreme caution and only complete necessary burning. Controlled burn notifications are being managed on a case-by-case basis, with an emphasis on strong precautions and checking and re-checking old burns.
Rowley Jefferson’s Awesome Spooky Stories by Jeff Kinney
NON-FICTION: Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
The Pocket PT: No Time. No Gym. No Problem. by Courtney Black
Zoe Bakes Cakes: Everything You Need to Know to Make Your Favorite Layers, Bundts, Loaves, & More by Zoe
Francois KITS: Spring Family Grab &
Adult Colouring Kit (colouring book & pencil crayons)
Puzzles
*Please specify ages and number of children when ordering so enough craft materials can be included.
“There is nothing like discovering a new world through reading.” ― Laura Bullock 403-664-3644 ext. 2727 aoymlibrary@marigold. ab.ca
Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7
Over the past few years, wildfires – specifically grassfires – have become more frequent and more destructive in this region. To help residents better protect properties and operations, Special Areas Fire Services are highlighting some easy fire prevention techniques from FireSmart Canada. FireSmart Canada is a national program which helps identify and reduce risks wildfires pose to communities and structures. Originally designed for the wildland/urban interface, this initiative is now used in all areas of the Province.
“Local fire departments have seen the difference fire prevention makes in reducing the impact of grassfires. FireSmart applies to everyone, especially as living in the Special Areas can mean long distances and travel times for fire departments. Implementing FireSmart in your yard, around your home, or on your larger operation is one of the best ways you can directly reduce your risks.” - Glen Durand, Special Areas Fire Chief Launched last fall, a new FireSmart app is available to help rural residents and property owners identify simple, practical, proactive steps they can take to reduce wildfire risks. This free app is available for Android and iPhone users at Google Play and App Store. It guides homeowners through a self-conducted home assessment using their mobile device and identifies specific actions they could take to reduce fire hazards for their property. This app is shareable for up to six people, letting families and operations all work together to identify and mitigate fire hazards.
For more information on FireSmart Canada, including the FireSmart Begins at Home app, visit https://firesmartcanada.ca/homeowners/.
Youngstown Communiqué
Reported by Robert Blagen 403-854-0664
I would like to send my sincere sympathies out to the family and friends of Elaine Woods of Oyen, who passed away on Sunday, March 21. Elaine was 95 years of age.
A word of caution to everyone. With the overly dry conditions these days, please take all necessary precautions to prevent any fires. I have noticed our local fire trucks heading out as well as have heard of other fire
department trucks from other area districts being called out to fight fires. We sure could use moisture, be it in the form of snow or rain. I myself would prefer rain, but will be happy to get it any way we can.
On Monday I had a visit with Bill Laughlin, a former resident of town. I met him at the Small Town Cafe as he was stopping in to try out the cuisine on his way through to making a delivery to Saskatoon. Happy Spring everyone!
University of Manitoba student seeking cover crop survey participants
A study on cover crops and their uses by a University of Manitoba Ph.D. candidate could provide much-needed context and knowledge for the Prairies.
Callum Morrison, a second-year student focusing on plant science, wants to capture and encapsulate Saskatchewan’s unique experiences and other provinces but needs farmers’ help.
“I want to see the current state of cover cropping in the Prairies. We want to see what has been done, why it was done that way, and what’s leading farmers to their decisions,” he said.
“I’m looking at how cover crops are used, the benefits farmers have seen, and any trends over time. We also need to look at the challenges farmers face. This can allow farmers, researchers and policymakers to mitigate issues, find better support, and research what the future holds.”
This marks the first cover crop survey across the three Prairie provinces – Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba – and a similar project in Ontario.
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Cell: 403-664-9637 buds_e_i_services@yahoo.com Office: 403-676-2162 Fax: 403-676-2152
“A cover crop can be grown to provide cover to soil, and they’re usually grown when cash crops aren’t. Any crop that provides a farmer income is a ‘cash crop,’ “he said.
“Cover crops are also grown in the shoulder season and are often done by organic and livestock farmers.”
Morrison said the information he’s been seeking just wasn’t there before, so he made a choice to try to gain it.
“We knew there were innovative farmers doing cover crops, but we didn’t know the results of their work. We needed specific regional data. We have diverse climates, moisture and season changes,” he said.
“It wasn’t enough to just rely on numbers from the U.S. We needed local stats. We needed numbers good enough for our local farmers.”
The survey began in 2019, and it was the first across the prairie provinces. It became imperative when – due to COVID-19 – no field studies could be conducted.
They currently have over 400 respondents from the Prairies – with 225 who did cover crop in 2020.
“We want to expand participation. We asked farmers questions they’d like answers to as well, and we want to extend a survey to those who didn’t do cover crops and ask why,” he said.
“The possible adoption of cover cropping can be gauged, as well as what is limiting cover crop use. We can attempt to reduce barriers to doing it and gain all sorts of necessary data.”
To learn more about the survey, please visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/prairiecovercrops2020.
Early spring conditions, including low relative humidity levels combined with below average precipitation levels has meant an increase risk of grassfires in the region.
PHOTO COURTESY SPECIAL AREAS BOARD
JORDAN PARKER The Oyen Echo
BLANKET ALBERTA
ANNOUNCEMENTS
MUST-READ BOOK Now
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AUCTIONS
2 BANKRUPTCY AUCTIONS conducted simultaneously. Laser Clean Ltd., Edmonton; Turcon United Building Systems Inc., Grande Prairie. Bidding starts Friday, March 26, ends Thursday, April 8. Construction equipment, Duct cleaning trucks, Pressure trucks, Floor & Restoration equipment. Trucks, Trailers, Skidsteer, Light
Towers. Complete listing, terms & details. www.foothillsautions.com or Foothills Equipment Liquidation, 780-922-6090.
UNRESERVED Louis Cleveland Estate Farm and Consignment Auction. Over $2 Million in farm equipment selling to the highest bidder! Bidding closes April 14. Visit premierauctions.ca.
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COMING EVENTS
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EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
FREIGHTLAND CARRIERS, a tri-axle air ride flatdeck carrier is looking for Owner/Operators to run Alberta only or the 3 Western Provinces. Must have own plates, insurance & WCB. Truck gross revenue is an average of $16,000/month. Call 1-800-917-9021 or email: dispatch@freightland. ca.
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, 1-877-2505252.
CERTIFIED SEED. - WHEAT – Go Early, Pintail. - OATS –
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FOR SALE
ROLL-OFF BINS & TRUCK. 1992 Ford L9000 & 8 Bins 30 cubic yards each. All in excellent condition. $135,000.00.SWENSON Parking Lot Sander for 1 ton truck. Gas powered. 2.5 yard capacity. In excellent condition; $3,470.00. 780446-1051.
HEALTH
GET UP TO $50,000 from the Government of Canada. ALL Ages & Medical Conditions qualify. Have a child under 18 instantly receive more money. CALL THE BENEFITS PROGRAM 1-800-211-3550 or send a text message with your name and mailing address to 403-980-3605 for your FREE benefits package.
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit allows
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CARDS OF THANKS
Shirley Jorgenson and her family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Tam, Dr. Muller, Extended Care nurses and staff, EMS Oyen, EMS Medicine Hat, Dr. Bering and staff in Medicine Hat after she broke her hip and required surgery to repair the break. Also, thank you again to EMS Oyen for the return trip, acute care nurses, Dr. Muller and physio for all the special care and understanding they demonstrated to her after returning to Oyen Hospital. We are very fortunate to have you all here in our community. Last but not least, we thank everyone for your prayers, phone calls and messages. May GOD bless everyone.
FOR SALE FOR SALE: MF 220 Tractor w/ pt. hitch. 25 HP. Excellent condition. Great tractor for yard. Call Brent (403) 6648256.
8 other good quarters may be available. Requires fencing. Great hunting $74,900.
LIVESTOCK FOR SALE 43rd Acadia Ranching 1976 LTD Bull Sale - April 10, Sat.: lunch at noon, sale at 2 p.m. featuring 2 year-old Charolais and Black Angus @ BSSA. Call Don Good 40-664-8844.
WOOD - It is with great sadness, the family of E. Elaine Wood (nee Roy) share the passing of Elaine on March 21, 2021 at the age of 95 in The Long Term Care Facility, Oyen, Alberta.
Elaine was born in Youngstown hospital August 9, 1925 to Eben and Mable Roy. Walker Roy (Unc) was a special person in her life as well. She was raised on the Hillcrest Farm south of Youngstown. Her favorite horse story was when she was 15, she rode Clarabelle in a race against some men at a Youngstown Sports Day and won. She claimed she just hung on and the horse did the rest.
Elaine developed a love for drama during her school years and took part in plays like “Deacon Dubbs”. She completed grade 12 in Youngstown. Elaine met Walter Wood at a local community dance. They were married July 20, 1945 at the Roy farm. Their dance was held in the Youngstown Hall with The OK Orchestra. Their first daughter, Cheryl was born in Hanna Hospital in 1946 and Wendy was born in Cereal Hospital in 1949. Elaine wanted the best for her family and was always there when they needed her. Their home was shared with the eight grandchildren as they were growing up and they always slept in sleeping bags on the living room floor, ate popcorn and watched TV. Also, they were known to open their home to family and friends throughout the years whether it be to
recuperate, bad weather or holidays. There were many gatherings where Elaine played the piano and her and Walter would sing. She was very proud that she played ball and curled, long enough to play with both her daughters.
Elaine was involved in their farming operations and helped wherever she could. Driving like a bat out of hell to town for parts, driving trucks, tractors, combines, delivering meals to the field by truck, car or motorhome were just a few of her contributions. During harvest, when she took meals out to the field, she drove a combine while the men ate. She drove the Willies Jeep to check cows, bring in vegetables from the garden and give her grandchildren rides and driving lessons.
Elaine’s interests were many. Knitting, sewing, reading, puzzles, playing cards, crib, and outdoors she played fastball, curled, went ski-dooing, skating, horse shoes, tobogganing, fishing, camping and gardening.
She was an active volunteer in 3 communities, Cereal, Lanfine and Oyen. She was an Honorary Member of the Order of The Eastern Star. She spent countless hours organizing Lanfine functions, Cereal BBQ’s and helping with the Curling Club in Oyen. She had an artistic talent for creating decorations for all kinds of functions, parades and Halloween costumes.
Walter and Elaine traveled far and wide with friends and family including cruises, train trips, visited relatives in Nova Scotia, drove a car back from Detroit and went camping a lot at Blood Indian, Moose Lake, Waterton, Elkwater, and her favorite spot, Pine Lake.
After Walter’s passing in 2003, Elaine moved to her new house in Oyen, then to The Lodge in 2016 and finally to Long Term Care in 2018. She made people laugh right up un-
til she couldn’t anymore.
Elaine is predeceased by her husband Walter, her parents, Eben and Mabel Roy; Uncle Walker Roy; Brother Don (Lila) Roy; Walters parents Allie and Ethel Wood as well as his Brother Ellis (Margaret) Wood; Sister Doris (Art) Berg and her Grandson John Hogan.
Elaine leaves two daughters; (1) Cheryl (John) Hogan, their children Trish (Jack) Breum; Tom (Cyndi) Hogan, Don (Denise) Hogan, Bobbi-Jo Hogan, and John’s (Lacey) Hogan; (2) Wendy (Jim) Marr and their children: Lori (Kerry) Bohnet; Tyler Marr and Mitchell Marr as well as 17 Great Grand Children and 4 Great-Great Grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
No greater lady will ever be missed as much as we will miss her.
Elaine never said good-bye. In her words.
“OK, WE’RE GONE!”
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial tributes may be directed to the Oyen & District Health Care Foundation, Box 150, Oyen AB T0J 2J0 or the charity of your choice. Funeral Arrangements in the care of MacLean’s Funeral Home in Oyen, Ab. ofsmacleans.com
Ronald Alan Bergen August 22, 1963 – March 14, 2021
Though our hearts are heavy, we find strength in celebrating the faith and life shared with Ron. Ronald Alan Bergen passed away at University of Alberta Hospital on the evening of Sunday, March 14, 2021, at the age of 57 years. For the second time, Ron fought a short, but fearless battle against cancer which he faced with courage and determination, never complaining. He was a treasure to all who knew him. Ron died with dignity and grace, with his wife at his side in accordance with God’s will and at the call of the Lord. He was a loving, caring and compassionate husband and friend. With strong appreciation of nature, Ron’s greatest joy was the time spent with his “Peanut”, Gwen. Together, they enjoyed many hap-
py times fishing, hiking, and adventures on the open road on his motorbike. He had a remarkable skill as a welder, not to be outdone by his expertise as a journeyman chef. Ron held a special place in his heart for all animals but especially for his dogs; Ozzy, Bruiser, Prince, Casper and Bear. He leaves to mourn his wife of 38 years, Gwen; his mother, Helen Bergen (Kroeker); father, Ronald Lovett; mother-in-law, Mary Wenzel and stepfather-in-law, Ray Donald. He will be missed by siblings, Kelly (Kathy) Kroeker, Terry (Christa) Bergen and Roxanne (Kevin) Milne; brother-in-law, Rick Wenzel and sistersin-law, Lorraine (David) Grover and Lynn (Bart) Findlay as well as by numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He is predeceased by his grandma and grandpa Bergen; grandparents, Bernice and Jacob Kroeker; brother, Kevin Bergen and father-in-law, Mel Wenzel. The family would like to send a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Mathrani, Dr.Giddey and Dr. Murphy, and the wonderful staff at the Shale Medical Clinic and the Drayton Valley Hospital for their compassionate care. Many thanks to the en-
tire team at Cross Cancer Institute and the University of Alberta Hospital for their gentle, thoughtful, and considerate care. Thank you to friends Gerry Ramsey, Shannon Campell, Brian Ward, Mary and Dave de Jong, Dianna Walker, Melita Clark, Blaine Flaht, Sandy Kyle, and Audrey Greib for their love and support throughout our journey. Special thanks for the many prayers from the faith community, and Dwayne Henley, Joelle Valliere and Colleen Sekura at Affinity Funeral Service. A private family service was held at Drayton Valley on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 and at Oyen on Monday, March 22, 2021 with Dwayne Henley officiating. If friends so desire, memorial contributions may be made directly to the Drayton Valley Health Foundation, 4550 Madsen Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1N8 in support of the Cancer Centre or Dialysis Unit at Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre. Condolences may be sent to www.affinityfuneralservice.ca Arrangements in care of Dwayne Henley, Joelle Valliere and Colleen Sekura at: Affinity Funeral Service, 5137 50 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta. 780.542.3338
OYEN EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH