Meeting pertaining to closing of New Brigden School
The meeting pertaining to the proposed closing of the New Brigden School has been posted. At a Special Board Meeting on May 5, the Board of Trustees decided to postpone the community consultation process on the notice of motion for the closure of New Brigden School.
The new meeting date is set for August 30, with the meeting format to be
is postponed
announced. After the August 30 meeting, the public will have an opportunity to provide written submissions to the board for consideration or apply to make an in-person presentation.
The final decision will come to the board on the October 5, 2021, public meeting regarding the notice of motion for closure of New Brigden School. Meanwhile, students at New Brigden School began learning online as of Friday, May 7.
Special meeting of Oyen Town Council
I listened in on a Special Meeting of Town Council by zoom today, May 6, that dealt with the 2021 town budget and capital budget. A bylaw was given rst, second and nal reading and passed setting the Municipal mill rate at 14.8744, a little higher than last year which was 14.0624. Two reasons given for the increase were loss of tax revenue from the Keystone camp and the expense of the rst payment of the debenture taken out for the First Avenue construction. e Debenture was one of the added operational expenditures resulting in the slight increase along with the introduction to the Police Funding Model and a small increase in requisition costs, but we have also had to limit some areas of revenue, particularly from our recreational amenities due to Covid. We will be receiving tax revenue from Keystone this year which their assessment has helped in mitigating the increase in the municipal mill rate, but as they have moved their camp out we will not be expecting to receive any tax revenues next year.
I reached out to Jason Duchscherer, Principal of Oyen Public School, on May 6. is was his reply: Students in K-6 at Oyen Public will be moving to online learning starting on Friday, May 7. e rst day will be an orientation day for students with the teacher to allow for a smooth transition. Your child’s teacher will be in contact with you as to the schedule of the Google Meets. Teachers are busy preparing lessons and paper packages that will come home with your student ursday. If there are any concerns or questions during the online period, please contact Jason. We want to thank all our parents and families during this challenging time for your support.
Tenelle Brost, teacher at South Central High, answered my email with: Prairie Rose has just updated their website with information related to this recent announcement. If you go to www.prrdweb.com then click on “Parent update: K-12 shi s to learning at home”, you can nd the latest updates.
Congratulations to rst-time parents Tanner and Nirvana Ross of Oyen on the arrival of daughter Chloe Rae Vera on April 29, 2021, in Medicine Hat hospital weighing 6 pounds 10 ounces measuring 18 1/4 inches. Excited grandparents are Bonnie and Kelly Ross of Bu alo, Crystal Anderson of Cereal and Frank Hauck of Oyen and great-grandparents Imogene and Dwight Hauck of Oyen.
A er a month without Meals on Wheels, the Oyen Lodge has again begun preparing meals for those within Oyen who ask for the service. e Order of Eastern Star is volunteering to deliver these meals for the rst two weeks of May. e Oyen United Church
will ll in for the last two weeks.
Congratulations to Conny Hertz, who retired at the end of April from Rocky Mountain Equipment Oyen, where she has been Branch Administrator for the past eight years. She says she worked with a great sta and will miss the customers. Retirement plans include trucking with her husband and spending time with their children and grandchildren.
Patrick Denis Marleau, Canadian professional ice hockey forward and alternate captain for the San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, is the NHL all-time leader in games played, surpassing Gordie Howe’s record of 1,767 games on April 19, 2021, in a game against the Vegas Golden Knights. Born in Swi Current, Marleau, 41, also played for the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs. Upon receiving this news from Oyen Echo subscriber Pat Siferd I reached out to former Oyenite Philippe Marleau, now of Medicine Hat, to con rm their relationship. He said Patrick is his second cousin — Patrick’s father Denis and Phil’s father Rene are brothers. “Patrick’s dad is Denis Marleau. Denis’s dad is Philippe Marleau, my uncle,” says Phil. “Denis’s, and my grandfather is Philippe Marleau. ere are two grave markers in Ponteix, Saskatchewan, with a name similar to mine. e family farm is located by Aneroid, Saskatchewan. My father, Rene, deceased March 2016, followed Patrick quite diligently. I believe Patrick is living in San Jose with his wife and four sons,” he concludes.
Over the past few weeks, I have reformatted 654 obituaries that appeared in the Oyen Echo to pdf les from Quark Xpress les as the company will no longer recognize the paid licence for multiple Oyen Echo computers—2011 – 28; 2012 – 80; 2013 – 72; 2014 – 76; 2015 – 71; 2016 – 85; 2017 – 61; 2018 – 63; 2019 – 65; 2020 – 53. I hope to put these on a thumb drive and give them to the Oyen & District Crossroads Museum to be available for people searching for family history. I will also have them on my computer, and you can request a copy by emailing fwalker1@telus.net or calling my cell at 403664-6600.
I need help!
NOTE: I have had positive feedback from readers about Oyen Briefs, but I need your help! If you have club or personal news you will allow me to include in this column, please email fwalker1@telus.net.
For inquiries or to send Oyen Echo owner/publisher Kate Winquist news items or advertising, reach out to her at kate@yoursouthwest.com or call her in Kindersley at 1-306-463-2211. Her mailing address Box 727, Kindersley, SK S0L 1S0.
OYEN, ALBERTA
A couple of visitors in the backyard of Oyen resident, Kim Walker on Monday, May 3. Thanks for the great submission, Kim!
OYEN NEWS BRIEFS
JOAN JANZEN
DIANA WALKER fwalker1@telus.net
Pioneer moms passed down a lasting legacy
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
With Mother’s Day just behind us, I mused about how the role of mothers has changed during the past number of decades? Two senior ladies were willing to share their memories of how their mothers coped while raising children during the Dirty Thirties on the prairies. Kindersley resident Lorna Dunn and Nelda Loppacher, a former Kindersley and Eston resident who now resides in Three Hills, Alberta, shared their memories. Each of them described their mother’s role in their life and how it impacted their own role as a mom later on.
Lorna Dunn was born in 1932 on a farm in Saskatchewan. It was during the Dirty ‘30s, and things were much different than they are today. Her mom had been a teacher before she married and was passionate about joining organizations such as the United Farmers Women and a rural poultry club. Later on, she upgraded her university classes and went back to teaching.
“She was also a firm disciplinarian, and her no meant exactly that,” Lorna said. “She sewed everything, even underwear. But she wasn’t a baker, so if we liked something, we learned how to make it.”
No one ventured too far from home in those days, and school and church attendance were
the primary sources of social interaction. “We’d go to town Saturday nights in our old car. Stores stayed open until midnight on Saturdays,” Lorna explained. “We’d play ball, and we all had gloves, but we only had one ball. So If you lost it, you’d have to find it. Later on, we had a radio and were able to listen to hockey games.”
Lorna and her siblings learned all about responsibility because they all had chores to do. Lorna had to clean the lamp glass and make sure there was oil in it for night. She also learned how to cook and clean at an early age and iron using a heavy gas iron.
There weren’t a lot of clothes to iron. “You went to school in your school clothes and came home and changed into work clothes,” Lorna said. “You didn’t run to the doctor for everything either but treated most things at home.”
Nelda Loppacher is 95 years old, and her mother moved to Eston, Sask. from Quebec, with her dad and siblings. “Mother was a mother to her brothers and sisters since her own mom had died from cancer at 37 years of age,” Nelda explained. Her mom married a farmer from Eston who had a homestead. “They moved into two granaries that they had put together,” Nelda said. “There was no electricity or conveniences. Drinking water was hauled with an
old truck from a spring fifteen miles away and stored in a small cistern, and water for washing was brought up in barrels from a dugout.”
During those years of the Great Depression, life went on as usual. Nelda’s mother cooked meals, baked bread, churned the cream into butter, sewed the family’s clothes and made homemade soap for washing clothes. Water for laundry was heated in a boiler on top of the cookstove.
“In the summer, clothes dried on a clothesline; in the winter, they were frozen in the porch and brought in during the week to hang on lines in the kitchen,” Nelda said.
Milk and butter were kept in a pail that was lowered near the cool water in the cistern. Nelda’s mother raised chickens that were canned to provide extra meat.
There was also a huge garden, and all the harvested produce was canned. “The root veggies and canned goods were stored in a hole under the kitchen,” Nelda explained.
Her parents “did without” in order to send their children to high school. There were no school busses in those days, so the teenaged children were put into a boarding home in Kindersley. “I worked for my board with a business in town,” she added.
When Lorna Dunn married and had her own family, she noted that the biggest difference between the life of her parents and that of her own family was the ability to travel easily and having more money on hand. But she also carried forward life lessons her mother had taught her, such as remembering to be proud
of yourself and learning to share what you have, whether it’s talents or material things.
Now she wants to pass all those lessons on to her family as well. “It’s important to share everything, the joy and sadness, wisdom. Learn to share what you have, and communication is big; I had to learn communication. A sense of humour is also very important,” Lorna concluded.
When Nelda got married, she and her husband bought her parent’s farm. “My mom went without so that we could have a new start. She left us a powerful legacy,” she concluded.
Photos like this one on display at the Kindersley museum made the chores of a pioneer woman appear to be light work.
R. Barry Miskuski, John F. Stodalka, Jeffrey J. Neumann, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Hermann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen
JOAN JANZEN joanjanzen@yahoo.com
ATV show called
“Faytene” has been receiving tons of emails and phone calls from people who have tough stories to tell and are desperate to find someone to advocate on their behalf. Faytene Grasseschi, who hosts the show, said these people aren’t expressing any dishonour to their government leaders, but also acknowledge that their stories need to be heard.
When asked why she advocates for Canadians, she said it’s because government isn’t just about government. The policies that are made by our leaders and are instituted on the ground impact people, like our children and our moms and dads. She shared a sample of some of these stories, that represent many, many other similar experiences.
OPINION
CHECK IT OUT with Joan Janzen
Canadians tell their stories
Joe McCrae from Melfort, SK shared a story about his son, Joel who was diagnosed with a disease that causes pressure on his brain. Joel had a headache, collapsed and was rushed to Saskatoon where he had an MRI. Joel required laser surgery which was available in Winnipeg, and performed in 2017. Now he needs to get an MRI every six months to see how his brain is doing, but in May of 2020 his scheduled MRI was cancelled. In October of 2020 he was playing outside at school, collapsed and had another incident. He was supposed to have laser surgery in November in Winnipeg, but it was also cancelled due to Covid. Now he is waiting for another rescheduled laser surgery.
Joe hears from numerous people who thank him for speaking up about
situations like these that are very hard on families. He said, although it takes courage and strength to speak up, it’s still worth it, because Canadians have to keep fighting for their families and their rights and freedoms. Joe has set up a go fund me page which raised over $11,000. The funds go towards situations similar to his son’s where financial help is needed.
Barb Elliott from Toronto also shared her story about her attempt to visit her senior-aged mother who lives in her own home in New Brunswick. Three scheduled trips had been cancelled since April, 2020. Barb recently booked a flight, with intentions to quarantine with her mother and then stay an additional week to celebrate her mom’s birthday. When she landed in New Brunswick at midnight, security
FOOD FOR THOUGHT
By Robert Blagen Youngstown, AB • 403-779-3859
HUMMING BIRDS:
Isn’t it ironic that all the Humming birds in North America decided to nest in the narrow strip of the pipeline right-away in Alberta.
From now on, I guess they will only be able to lay a pipeline in the middle of winter when all
the birds and frogs and bugs along with the rattlesnakes are all hibernating or gone south for the winter.
I also read in the paper that they’re closing a hiking trail out west because somebody found a den with a momma fox and some young ones. I hope
officials required her to register online to enter the province. Brenda registered online and visited a customs officer, where she was denied entry into the province. She was told the only way she could enter was if her mother was dying or had died. She was then escorted outside into the parking lot where she had to break the news to her mom who had arrived to pick her up.
Brenda spent the night in a motel room where she contacted a constitutional lawyer from the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms. This is a non-profit law charity that defends the freedoms of Canadians. The lawyer said, although her constitutional rights had been breached, if she refused to return to Toronto, she would be arrested, sent to jail and fined. All this, in spite of the fact that both she and her mother had
received negative test results and were prepared to quarantine.
The Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms has received at least 800 similar stories. Brenda has also heard many, many sad stories since she posted her experience on line. She reached out to her premier and other MPP’s, and noted that one MPP called her personally and offered some advice.
Liz Fidey from Ontario shared her story concerning her 24 year old son who has an intellectual disability. He was terminated from his day program when he told the program’s staff he didn’t want to get the vaccine. The day program was his life, teaching him skills and providing him with social interaction with his friends. Even though he was willing to obey all the rules such as masking, sanitizing and social dis-
tancing, he was terminated. He had been attending the program full-time for the last three years. Now he is at the bottom of the list to be admitted to another day program, which are all restricted in numbers at the present time. The stories of these three individuals are not unique. Instead, they are similar to the stories of thousands of Canadians throughout the country.
they don’t find out that we have a family of foxes in town or we might have to evacuate town for the summer. Our foxes don’t seem to mind people being around as they seem to come back every year. I think that people get a little too protective of the animals sometimes!
My apologies for the errors in my news last week! Technological difficulties on my end!
Acadia Valley broke ground on the new hall construction April 28th. We took a picture to commemorate the occasion. (L to R Stephen Kearney-Armor Building, Rachelle Skappak-Community Club President, Aaron Skappak-Council Member, Tim Peers-Council Member, Jordan KuhnRec. Club President, Peter Rafa- Council Reeve, Jason Wallsmith CAO, Kent Chudleigh- Armor Building owner, Nate Horner-MLA. Armor Building is the lead contractor on
Acadia Valley NEWS
May 5, 2021
Reported by Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com call or text 403-664-0582
the project, they plan to have it completed this fall. Their goal is to use as many local contractors, materials, and facilities as they can. Vortrax Construction is currently onsite breaking ground. Armor Building is also renting the Knights of Columbus hall to use as their office during the build.
The W.P.S. Grade 4-6 students have been enjoying the equine therapy program facilitated by Miss Kim Mendenhall. This group is focusing on respect, empathy, responsibility, boundaries, and relationship skills. Thank you to April and Tim
Heeg for sharing their horses for the program.
There is a town-wide Garage Sale planned for Saturday May 15th. The garage sales will be held privately, covid restrictions apply. Maps will be available at The Store.
Congrats to Willie Vandeligt who won $202.50 on last month’s 50/50. The next draw will be made on June 7th. You can get your tickets at The Store, Skappak’s Farm Supply or from a Rec. Club member.
Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with a quote from J.E. Lawrence, “It is what it is”.
Cereal News
want to miss anyone, but I know you know who you are!
a.m. to 4 p.m.), May 14 and 15. Call 403-326-2566.
Youngstown Communiqué
Reported
by Robert Blagen Youngstown, AB • 403-779-3859
I wish to send my sincere sympathies out to the family and friends of Darlene Rosenau who passed away on April 27th at 81 years of age.
A reminder to everyone here in the Village as well as to those who may come into town, PLEASE keep an eye out for the many youngsters who may be out and about enjoying the outdoors and “PLEASE” slow down. It only take
a split second for tragedy to happen and no one wishes for that to happen when it can so easily be avoided. “THANK YOU FOR DOING YOUR PART” in keeping our youngsters safe. I am told that the construction of the School Greenhouse Project should be underway very soon, so if you are out and about, you may notice some activity happening in the school yard.
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
Another Liberal Cover-Up
I read the piece in the Oyen Echo about Keilan Venturato concerning his battle with health problems; I’ve known Keilan since his early years to the present time, and I’ve seen the worry from his grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins in and around New Brigden. They’ve shown love and helped out in many ways, also taking him to Calgary a number of times to doctor appointments. I know they are very proud of Keilan, all of us are pulling for you and your future. Congrats on getting your wish through “Make A Wish Foundation”. I won’t name all the family as I wouldn’t
The Cereal & District Athletic Association is finalizing locations for year-round public restrooms in Cereal to help keep our community clean. Building commences later this summer. Donations gratefully received by CCA to assist with this project.
The Cereal Library is still open for curbside service from noon to 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. You can call the library at (403) 326-3883 to order books or make an appointment to pick up materials.
Fun Yoga virtual classes still available. Call Amanda 403-664-8280. To find out more about Cereal Family Riding Club call Nikki 403-6649791.
Cereal and District Athletic Association plans to clean up the sports grounds May 27. Watch for times.
Canada’s Liberal Government is yet again being rocked by another scandal as sexual harassment allegations have been brought against former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Jonathan Vance. Once again, it seems that the most connected and powerful people within the Liberal Party are attempting to cover up, minimize, and dismiss serious allegations as they work to filibuster proceedings, delay investigations, and restrict key witnesses.
Elaine Michaels was in Calgary last week for an eye appointment.
May 10-16
Happy anniversary to Les and Deb Stouffer, Wayne and Janelle Seemann, Kim and Cheryl Mizera, Al and Norma Buettner. Reported by
Cereal Community Garage Sale is planned for Friday (noon to 6 p.m.) and Saturday (10
Happy birthday to Cheryl Clarkson, David Hains, Jeanne Machell, Kim Mizera, Lauren Schnurer, Randy Clarkson, Barrett Mahaffey, Mckay Mahaffey, Ryley Dziatkewich, Tanner Girletz, Gloria Carey, Lee-Anne Reggin, Maja Lewin-Schorz, Keller Tye, Brittany Molzan, Faith Hammel, Ivy Dunham, Landon Olsen, Parker Reid, Shawn Gow, Zoey Arneson, Hailly McCallum.
Bu alo News
The district was blessed with a very welcome rain on Tuesday night and Wednesday. My rain gauge showed just over half an inch. Today (Thursday) is a perfect time to be outside digging in the dirt. Congratulations to Tanner and Nirvana Ross of Oyen who became parents to baby girl Chloe Rae Vera Ross on April 29, 2021 in Medicine Hat. She weighed 6 pounds 10
ounces and was 18 1\4 inches long so that makes her a chubby little baby. That seems out of place because the Rosses I know are slim, tall people. Best wishes to all of you. Bonnie and Kelly Ross are the proud grandparents. Seeding has begun but the weather remains cold at nights. Hopefully everyone stays healthy and safe.
Rumours about General Vance’s conduct dates back to before 2015, at which time there was an immediate investigation conducted by the previous Conservative Government. At that time, no evidence of wrongdoing was found. However, three years ago under the current Liberal Government, a victim came forward and presented further evidence. Instead of immediate action, it appears there was a cover-up and the General’s appointment was extended with a pay raise. Since this past January, when Vance stepped down as the CDS, more troubling details have been revealed, including evidence showing influential Liberals, like the Minister of Defence, senior advisors, and even the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff, were aware of these allegations. So far, Prime Minister Trudeau denies his involvement, but his story continues to change as more evidence surfaces.
At a time when headlines spoke of the need to support victims of high-profile sexual misconduct around the world with the #metoo movement, it appears the Liberals attempted to cover up allegations. The
confidence of those who serve in our military, especially servicewomen, has been shaken, especially when it comes to those who have taken the brave step to speak out. There needs to be a plan to tackle the issue of sexual misconduct within the Canadian Armed Forces. The Official Opposition has called for a service-wide independent investigation into sexual misconduct in the military. We’ve also called to suspend all General and Flag Officer promotions and salary increases while this investigation takes place. Conservatives have also proposed changes to ensure future complaints are made to an external independent body outside the chain of command.
The Official Opposition and I stand with victims of sexual abuse and harassment and the brave women who come forward. Canada’s Conservatives will continue to work to expose the corruption, hypocrisy, and misconduct of a Government that needs to remember whom it serves; especially at a time where our nation is in crisis. Those who bravely wear our nation’s uniform, and all Canadians, deserve nothing less.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write MP Kurek at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780608-4600, text 403-575-5625, or e-mail damien.kurek@parl. gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek. If you are in need of assistance regarding a Federal Government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to Damien’s office.
The Government recently announced that former Supreme Court Justice, Louise Arbour, has been appointed to conduct an independent external review. This is a needed step, but like many issues, it has taken headlines and embarrassment to force this Government to take action. At the same time, it has revealed their mismanagement and attempts at cover-ups which force delays. Unfortunately, many are questioning the legitimacy of a review where the rules are written by those who very well may have been involved in the initial cover-up.
2021 SUMMER JOB OPPORTUNITY
Yester Years Ranching is now accepting applications for Summer Student
Term: June 27 - August 27, 35hrs/week
Wage: $16/hr
Duties:
-Assist in feeding, watering & well-being of animals
-Assist in the mainenance and repairs of facilities and farm infrastructure
-Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
-Ability to work alone and in a team environment
-Good communication skills
-Valid driver's license
Submit Resumes to yyranching@netago.ca Call/Text 403-664-5025
Old Age Security increase targets older seniors’ higher risks
By Deb Schulte, Canada’s Minister of Seniors Budget 2021 has helped to strengthen the financial security of Canadians later in life.
It announced two important measures. In August 2021, we will issue a one-time $500 payment directly to seniors aged 75+ as of June 2022.
Then in July 2022, we will permanently increase the Old Age Security pension by 10 per cent for seniors aged 75+. That’s worth $766 over the first year to pensioners receiving the full benefit and helps 3.3 million seniors.
It’s targeted at older seniors who are more financially challenged and who are worried about outliving their savings.
As they age, seniors face more health issues. Their healthcare expenses rise due to illness or disability: on average
out-of-pocket health expenses of those aged 80+ are over $700 a year higher than those aged 65-74. At the same time, most older seniors can no longer supplement their income with paid work. Few seniors work beyond age 75, and those that do have median earnings of only $720 a year.
The passing of spouses adds to the pressure. Among seniors, almost twice as many over age 75 are widows. And with women, on average living longer than men, it’s no wonder many senior women slip into poverty after the hardship of losing their life partners.
To help secure older seniors’ finances, the Liberal government is making the first permanent increase to Old Age Security since 1973, other than adjustments due to inflation.
BOOK Notes
It builds on our strong record of supporting seniors of all ages. For the youngest seniors, we restored the age of eligibility for OAS to 65 after the Harper Conservatives raised it to 67. We also strengthened the Canada Pension Plan for future retirees, increased the Guaranteed Income Supplement for single seniors and reduced income taxes for all Canadians.
Our work is showing results: the latest data shows 11 per cent fewer seniors live in poverty than when we took office in 2015.
Taken together, our ambitious and progressive measures are making a real difference for seniors’ financial security, and there is more work to do. Canadian seniors can always count on Liberals to listen, understand their needs and work hard to deliver for them.
Kurek receives his first COVID-19 vaccine dose
Battle River—Crowfoot Member of Parliament, Damien Kurek, received his first COVID-19 vaccine dose this past week. “Like many Canadians, I have been waiting patiently for the eligibility to get my jab. As soon as that was expanded by the Government of Alberta, I signed up,” MP Kurek stated in response to getting his vaccine. He went on to thank health care workers: “Thank you to all healthcare and frontline workers across Alberta and Canada who have been working so diligently over the course of the pandemic, and a special thanks to Darren and Gayleen and the Guardian Pharmacy staff that administered the dose with professionalism.”
Canadians are tired of COVID-19: from the restrictions and health measures that have affected all of us, to the devastating economic impacts that have been faced, to how this virus has dominated conversations and headlines for more than a year. MP Kurek also stated, “While vaccines are not, nor should they be, mandatory, they are an import-
ant tool that will help Canada move forward and get back to normal. Although vaccine procurement and availability have faced frustrating delays and setbacks, it is encouraging that provincial resources are ready to get shots administered as they become available.”
It may be difficult to be optimistic with all the challenges we face as a region, province, and country, but we can look forward to the future because of the resilience of Canadians. Kurek felt it was important to share his vaccine story to help address some of the hesitancy that exists. He joins millions of Canadians and other politicians, including Leader of the Official Opposition, Erin O’Toole, who were eligible a number of weeks ago. O’Toole stated after getting his vaccine, “Getting vaccinated helps protect everyone, puts our economy back on track, and brings us back together.”
Finally, MP Kurek stated: “With recent expansions in vaccine eligibility, I encourage everyone who is willing to sign up and push back against COVID.”
by Tricia Fischbuch
**The library is currently operating through curbside service only**
Contact the library to arrange a pickup day for your items during regular library hours. Materials can be ordered through the TRACpac app or www. tracpac.ab.ca. We also take in-house requests; contact the library and we will put something together for you!
ADULT FICTION:
Country Proud by Linda Lael Miller
A Distant Shore by Karen Kingsbury (Christian Fiction)
NON-FICTION:
Crossroads: My Story of Tragedy & Resilience as a Humboldt Bronco by Kaleb Dahlgren
Reflexology for Every Body by Joan Cosway-Hayes
Believe It: How to Go from Underestimated to Unstoppable by Jamie Kern
Lima
Don’t Call It a Cult: The Shocking True Story of Keith Raniere & the Women of NXIVM by Sarah Berman
Ladies Get Paid: The Ultimate Guide to
Auctions
ANNUAL GARY HANNA AUCTIONS RV SALE!
On-line May 15-22, 2021. See www.auctions.ca for details or call to consign780-440-1075.
UNRESERVED FARM AUCTION LAND AND EQUIPMENT for Norm Block. 11.93 Acres on HWY 2 at Olds, AB. Bidding closes May 18 and 19. Visit premierauctions. ca.
Business Opportunities
GET YOUR MESSAGE
SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $995 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@ awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780434-8746 X225. www. awna.com.
Coming
Events FIREARMS WANTED FOR JUNE 19th, 2021 LIVE & ONLINE AUCTION: Rifles, Shotguns, Handguns, Militaria. Auction or Purchase: Collections, Estates, Individual Items. Contact Paul, Switzer’s Auction: TollFree 1-800-694-2609, sales@switzersauction. com or www.switzersauction.com.
Breaking Barriers, Owning Your Worth, & Taking Command of Your Career by Claire Wasserman
A Cure for Darkness: The Story of Depression & How We Treat It by Alex Riley
Count Down: How Our Modern World is Threatening Sperm Counts, Altering Male & Female Reproductive Development and Imperiling the Future of the Human Race by Shanna Swan 100 Things to Know About the Oceans by Jerome Martin
ONLINE BOOK CLUB:
Wednesday May 26; 6:30 – The Husband’s Secret by Liane Moriarty Copies available at the library. Contact the library to register. Newcomers always welcome!
Congratulations to Brenda Sanderson who won the Friends of the OAC Libraries online 50/50 raffle! Brenda took home $1,205. Thank you to everyone who supported this fundraiser!
“Write to be understood, speak to be heard, read to grow.” - Lawrence Clark Powell
Employment Opportunities
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269 (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.
DO YOU WANT TO PUT YOUR PICK UP TRUCK TO WORK? Roadex is seeking 1 ton owners to transport RV’s throughout N. America. Class of license required depends on province. Subsidized health and dental insurance, competitive rates, fuel discounts. Driver must have valid passport, be able to cross the border, pass a drug test and must be 21 years or older. For more information about us, please visit our website at roadexservices.com. To apply, please email resume and a current driver’s abstract to recruiting@roadexservices.com.
Feed and Seed
CERTIFIED SEED.WHEAT – AAC Goodwin, AC Andrew, Go Early, Pintail, Sadash. - OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, SO1 Super Oat. - BARLEY – Amisk, Busby, Cerveza, Conlon, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. Very Early Yellow Pea, Forage Peas. Polish Canola, Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403556-2609.
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Guerrero, Jr.’s breakout season arrives
Aballplayer knows he’s in fairly select company when an admiring opponent says it’s fun to watch a “franchise superstar at work.”
Those were the words of Washington’s Josh Bell in an MLB.com story after Vladimir Guerrero, Jr., of the Toronto Blue Jays officially struck the word ‘potential’ from his career description by slamming three home runs, two of them (including a grand slam) off three-time Cy Young award winner Max Scherzer, in a late April game. He finished with seven RBI.
After four or five years of speculation and hope, Vlady Guerrero, Jr., has emphatically arrived.
For two years, Guerrero, Jr., has been the face of the Baby Jays, a trio of great young players many observers felt would grow together to lead Jays into a powerhouse. There were signs of stardom in years one and two, but Year 3 appears to be the launching pad to that predicted superstardom.
Scherzer, who was tagged for a home run by Vlady’s daddy 10 years ago, joined a select duo: The only pitchers to give up a home run to Guerrero Sr.
and Jr. are him and Ivan Nova, who retired in 2020.
What an April for Guerrero, Jr.! The slimmed-down infielder (he lost 30 pounds since last year) ended the month batting .350, with seven homers (two shy of the MLB lead) and an OPS of 1.155, trailing only Mike Trout and Ronald Acuna, Jr. Bo Bichette and Cavan Biggio, who also had fathers with sterling major league careers, are the other two Baby Jays who appear to be fulfilling the hopes of Blue Jays’ fans. Bichette bats in the No. 2 slot for the Jays and is a solid hitter (.260 and seven homers at the end of April) while Biggio has struggled in his third year, but definitely belongs in the bigs.
The Jays went 13-12 through their first 25 games and did that without two of their best offensive stars — free-agent acquisition George Springer, and Teoscar Hernandez, who slammed 16 homers in 50 games last year but missed most of April after testing positive for COVID-19. To throw the hard-hitting Springer and Hernandez into a lineup which also includes the red-hot Guerrero, Jr., Bichette and Randall Grichuk will be throwing trepidation into the
psyche of opposing pitchers as the 2021 season carries on. Meanwhile, as the homers fly out and the Jays contend for the American League East pennant, it’s only a matter of time before talk becomes serious about linking Guerrero, Jr., and Most Valuable Player discussion. May as well make this breakout season of his complete.
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “According to a recent British study, people surrounded by happy, smiling faces tend to lose their feelings of aggression and anger. In a related story, Maple Leafs fans fight a lot.”
• Patti Dawn Swansson, aka the River City Renegade: “Rink Rat Scheifele spent some
& WEBB
Terry Duchcherer, President 1.800.542.7028 • sales@netago.ca • Hanna, AB
time in coach Paul Maurice’s pooch palace on Saturday night for, appropriately enough, dogging it.”
• Swansson again: “Hockey Night in Canada was broadcast/streamed in 10 different tongues on Saturday night. It would have been 11 different languages, except Don Cherry was fired a year and a half ago.”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “After guest-hosting ‘Jeopardy,” Aaron Rodgers announced he does not want to return to the Green Bay Packers. It seems Aaron grew to like the idea the contestants on ‘Jeopardy’ do not try and sack the guest-host.”
• Headline at Theonion. com: “Terrified Zach Wilson Cuts Off Pinky Finger To Get Out Of Draft That Would Ship Him Off To Jets”
• Young fan’s sign at a Cubs game: “Shhhhhh! I’m remote learning.”
• Bob Molinaro of pilotonline.com: “Now that MLB seven-inning doubleheader games are here to stay, it’s time to get accustomed to the fifth-inning stretch.”
• Jesse Spector of Dead-
spin.com, via Twitter: “If Aaron Rodgers is going to host ‘Jeopardy!’, then (actor) LeVar Burton should get to be the Packers quarterback. Fair is fair.”
• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe.com, on CDC guidelines now saying people can be outside without a mask if they’re not in a crowd: “So Marlins fans should be fine.”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg, on why TV ratings for the Academy Awards fell 58 per cent: “A list of movie nominees that were more depressing than a New York Jets film session.”
• Dwight Perry of the Seattle Times: “The Milwaukee Bucks offered COVID-19 vaccinations to any fans attending Sunday’s game against Brooklyn — but only the first dose of Pfizer. You’d think a championship-caliber NBA team might have a better shot selection.”
• Field Yates, on Twitter: “The Panthers have taken Deonte Brown in the sixth round, who is large enough to play guard and tackle at the same time.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
MAY 12th & 26th, 2021 For appointments call Hanna: 403-854-4045
The Living Word: My Mother’s Honour
BY LEORA SCHMIDT
Iawoke late the morning that I write this, perhaps delayed by a vivid dream. My family of siblings was assembled at mother’s place. I was busily occupied with cleaning up the living room. We had reverted to acting like kids again. So blankets needed folding, pillows re-arranged, various items of extra clothing and shoes had been strewn around the room. The room wasn’t a showplace to begin with. There were numerous pots filled with plants—
not ornamental plants— but the beginnings of a beautiful garden for summer. It was home, and it felt comfortable.
Mother had gone to the kitchen to prepare our favourite food. Oh the feeling! Being with mother provided such a sense of comfort, love, and acceptance ALWAYS!! I bask in that warm memory, sparked by a dream. And other memories insert themselves. My mother was a stoic and said little in the way of rebuke. When I left home to attend school a couple hundred miles
Oyen Welding & Machining Ltd.
away as a teenager we didn’t have computers for e-mail or phones for texting or phoning. Long distance phone calls were expensive and seldom indulged in. The mail man carried our letters. When I was negligent in writing mother the usual weekly letter she accepted that and lapsed as well. When she finally wrote, the exact words of her wry humour have stayed with me, ”Since you seemed too busy to write, I thought maybe you were too busy to read.”
Mother has been gone for years—and I miss her. Remembering her gives me a special warmth in my heart—the realization of her constant, never-failing love for me. Sadly my memories are tempered by regrets. She treasured me, but I am sorry that I did not value her as I should, nor tangibly show enough appreciation or affection in my busy life away from her. The thought of that neglect yanks at my heart
always when I think of her.
It was at my mother’s knee that I learned about God, learned to pray, listened to Bible stories and memorized Bible verses, and learned of the ten commandments by which I will be judged. It is one of those commandments that still challenges me, although I can now honour my mother only in memory. It’s the only commandment that pronounces a divine blessing: “Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” Exodus 20:12
Dear reader, if your mother is still living, treasure the woman who gave you life and nurtured you—the one whom you call mother. Therein lies a reward for her in your continual affection toward her. And your honouring and caring for her is a sacred privilege that bounces back to you with multiplied blessings.
The Herd Registered Texas Longhorn Sale
Saturday May 29, 2021 1pm at the Innisfail Auction Market, Innisfail Ab. For information or a Catalouge contact Contact Ron Walker 403-528-0200 or Email walkersu7texaslonghorns@gmail.com
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Kate Winquist Publisher / Sales Robert Winquist Circulation
DARLENE ROSENAU -
Darlene was born on January 31, 1940, in Redcli Alberta, passed away April 27, 2021, in Hanna Alberta, at the age of 81 years. She was born into the world premature and only three pounds, Darlene was a ghter for life. She grew up in a small town where not only parents were a part of raising her, but the community helped shape her outlook on life. e Levenne children had neighbors that kept a close eye on them. Darlene had a lot of respect for these people, and this in uenced how she looked out for family, friends, and neighbors.
She came to the Youngstown area with her son Les Johnson in answer to an ad in the Western Producer for a housekeeper from Charles Rosenau in 1965. In December of 1969 Charles married Darlene.
Darlene loved her family and tried to stay in touch with her siblings and families; Christmas cards and visits were especially important to her. As time went on, she was able to make herself more at home with neighbors and Charles’ family. Knowing what it was like to come into a new community, she would help and be friends with anyone new.
ere came a point that both Charles and Darlene gave their lives to God through the salvation of their Lord Jesus Christ. ey attended the Gospel Chapel of Youngstown where their circle of friends grew larger.
Darlene had a very compassionate heart and if anyone were hurt, mentally or physically, had a loss, or in the hospital, Darlene would always have food, a visit, or a card t for the occasion. She empathized with people in all circumstances, whether a birthday, wedding, a funeral or just life.
Music was a big part of Darlene’s life. From dance music/polkas when she was young, to Country and Western to ll an empty house, and hymns and spirituals. She appreciated specials that would be sung at the chapel and especially loved watching and listening to the Gaither Vocal Group. She passed away while the hymn “So ly and Tenderly” was playing beside her.
When Darlene moved to the farm, she lived it to
the fullest. She rode a horse (though not her favorite thing to do), milked a cow and helped Charles with feeding and caring for the cattle. She also cultivated, combined, drove a grain truck, and more, whenever called to do so. She especially adored cats, and for a time part of her world revolved around her house cats.
Before lack of dexterity and poor eyesight, she crocheted many articles of clothing for newborns, doilies for wedding gi s, and articles to give away. Her focus changed to sewing quilts for a time, and giving those away, her gracious and giving heart was felt by many.
Darlene was an exceptionally good cook and capable of making meals for crowds of people at brandings and weanings. Guests would also appreciate her Sunday dinners. Being a farm wife, she so much appreciated helping out and catching up with fellow neighbor wives when they had to prepare their branding and weaning meals too. When grandchildren came into her life, she was overjoyed. She enjoyed the time she spent with them and was immensely proud of their accomplishments.
As she and Charles began to deal with age-related issues, they moved from the farm to the Seniors Lodge in Hanna. ey moved in June 1st of 2014 and she resided there until April 11, 2021. She greatly appreciated the homecare and sta that took care of her at the lodge. She was predeceased by her twin infant girls, Lana Lee and Loretta Louise; parents Jules and Winnifred Levenne; brother Wayne Levenne; one sister Francis Lentz; husband Charles Rosenau; sister-in-law Edna Triebwasser; brother-inlaw’s Elroy Lando, Arthur Rosenau, and Lawrence Triebwasser. She is survived by sisters Hazel (Severn) Barber, Julie Noble; sisterin-law’s, Norma Levenne, Edna Rosenau; brother-inlaw Gordon Lentz; daughter-in-law Cheryl Johnson and her family, Eric, Vicki, Kyle (Marie-Anne) and their children Zachary, Rebecca, Jonah and Lydia; son Glen (Christina) Rosenau, their family Raylene, Bryce, Crocus; and not forgotten by her nieces and nephews.
A private graveside service was held at the Youngstown Cemetery on May 2, 2021.
If desired donations in memory of Darlene can be made directly to the Hanna Ladies Auxiliary, Box 23, Hanna, AB, T0J 1P0.
Hanna Funeral Services Ltd., entrusted with the care and arrangements, 403-8545956, www.hannfuneral.ca.
N. Dawn Clark
May 30 1943-April 23 2021
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Dawn Clark (nee Code), formerly of New Brigden, Alberta. Dawn died peacefully at CapitalCare Norwood Hospice, Edmonton, on Friday April 23rd at the age of 77.
Dawn was born in Cereal, Alberta to Donald and Muriel Code (nee Ford) and grew up on the family farm at New Brigden, Alberta. Dawn was the eldest of her siblings Merle, Renee, Brian, and Bill, whom she spent time in her youth taking care of. Dawn often spoke fondly of time spent with her siblings and many Code cousins. There are happy memories of travelling to Oyen as a family to see a movie. Upon completion of high school, Dawn moved to Calgary, where she worked for Greyhound. She then met Doug Clark and they married in 1965 and they started their family. Dawn and Doug and their children Wendy, Daryl, and Brenda lived in Rockyford. They then moved to Calgary, and then settled at the Code farm in New Brigden, the third generation
of the Code family to farm there. Their daughter April was then born. While living in New Brigden, Dawn worked on the farm, drove school bus, did bookkeeping for local business, worked at the Esther store, and worked as the New Brigden Postmaster. She was a very active volunteer in the community, participating in the community club and curling club, school activities, leading in 4H, maintaining the local library, coaching t-ball and softball, and car-pooling kids to activities. Doug passed away in 1999 and Dawn remained in New Brigden for a few years. She then moved to Sherwood Park, where she worked at a dry cleaners, participated in a book club, and spent time with family. She then moved to Planeview Place Lodge at Leduc. Her final days were spent in the care of CapitalCare Norwood Hospice in Edmonton. Dawn enjoyed crocheting, cross-stitch, and painting ceramics. She loved playing cards with family and friends, doing crosswords, reading crime fiction novels, playing computer games, and watching curling
and Hallmark movies. She loved listening and singing along to country music and golden oldies from her youth. She was a great gardener of vegetables and flowers. She was adored by her kids and grandkids for her baking and preserves, particularly her bread and buns, jelly tea cakes, cinnamon buns, Christmas goodies, chokecherry jam, and crabapple jelly. Her kids fondly remember the delicious Chinese food she made upon completion of a Chinese cooking course. Dawn loved the family farm, and enjoyed her time there raising animals, driving the grain truck and tractors, and gardening. Dawn was a very proud Alberta woman. Although Dawn was fiercely independent, she always welcomed a visit from family and neighbours for a cup of coffee, a home-baked treat, and a chat, and loved attending family reunions.
Dawn is survived by her daughter, Wendy (Collin) Clark, son Daryl Clark, daughter Brenda Aston, daughter April (David) Bergin, brother
Brian (Linda) Code, sister Renee Cartwright, and brother Bill (Sheila) Code. She is survived by her grandchildren Jordan (Lewis) Clark Marcichiw, Zac Christou, Amy Aston, Dominique (Mark) Aston, Kian Johnson, and Melanie Bergin, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents Donald and Muriel Code, her brother Merle Code, and her husband Doug Clark.
Dawn is remembered by her family and friends as having integrity, and being kind, independent, authentic, and hard working. She had a dry, subtle sense of humour, a strong sense of responsibility, and a stubborn streak a mile wide. She will be greatly missed. A memorial service will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your charity of choice.
To view photos and leave messages of condolence please visit our website at www. pointewestfuneral.com
OYEN EVANGELICAL MISSIONARY CHURCH Meeting IN PERSON again on Sunday mornings at 10 AM for Sunday School and 11 AM for the Worship Service. e service may still be viewed live on Facebook and later in YouTube.
SACRED HEART RC OYEN 1st Friday 6:30 p.m. Mass & Adoration at Sacred Heart Church. Rest of the Fridays at the Extended Care unit 6:30 pm Sunday Mass at 11:00 a.m. Cell 403-795-6912. shcoyen@telus.net
SACRED HEART RC OYEN 1st Friday 10:30 a.m. Mass & Adoration at Sacred Heart Church. Saturday Mass starting May 1st Mass in Oyen at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday Cell 403-795-6912. shoyen@telus.net
ST. MARY’S RC, ACADIA VALLEY
ST. MARY’S RC ACADIA VALLEY
ursdays 10:00 a.m.
ursdays 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m. Rectory 403-664-3603 newtonrodrigues17@outlook.com
Sunday Mass 9:00 a.m. Rectory 403-664-3603. newtonrodrigues17@outlook.com
