Macdonald stated that $3,000 was also added to the operating budget for lift station repairs which are still
it’s not certain the repairs are needed.
The CAO also mentioned some good news regarding fire hydrant repairs: it appears the hydrants may not need repair, just some basic maintenance.
Macdonald stated she was told the hydrants may only require some gaskets and O-rings and won’t require digging up the pavement.
After looking at the proposed operating budget Coun. Clark German complimented the CAO.
“I think you did an excellent job Elaine,” said German.
He also asked the CAO if she’d had a chance to look into the amount of water Big Valley actually purchased, but Macdonald answered she wasn’t able to do that yet.
German noted he felt the village should be as prepared as possible for water purchases because an unexpected and non-budgeted purchase could have a big financial effect on the village.
During discussion Coun. Amber Hoogenberg asked why numbers show the village’s water usage has dropped year to year.
Macdonald answered the village has had a couple of leaks repaired over the past few years.
Conservative Party Leader visits Battle River-Crowfoot
CONSORT - Damien Kurek, Conservative MP-elect for Battle River—Crowfoot released the following statement on Conservative Party of Canada Leader, Pierre Poilievre, and his wife Anaida’s visit to Battle River—Crowfoot last week.
Councillors discussed the municipal assessor, with Macdonald stating she was very happy with Big Valley’s assessor. The CAO stated the village’s assessor knows the job very well and meets all the requirements of the Municipal Government Act (MGA).
Mayor Dan Houle responded that in his opinion assessments in Big Valley
Hoogenberg also mused that the water tower has been drained and refilled which may have also played a role.
may
“Yesterday, Pierre Poilievre and his wife Anaida spent the day in Consort, Alberta to meet with people from the region and hear what issues matter most to them.
Councillors unanimously approved the
“Pierre grew up in Alberta and was raised knowing how valuable the West is to the country. Like me, Pierre has been fighting to unleash Canada’s energy, build resource projects and get our oil and gas to market. Since he first became a Member of Parliament in 2004, Pierre has been championing Canadian energy and he will continue to do that as the next Member of Parliament for Battle—River Crowfoot.
“Pierre will also fight for tax relief. In the recent federal election, Pierre was the only Party Leader with a real plan to make life more affordable by cutting the capital gains tax, cutting income tax by 15%, removing the sales tax on new homes and allowing
seniors to keep more of their income tax free. In the same way I do, Pierre believes that a dollar in the hand of someone who earned it is better spent than by the government who taxed it.
“Yesterday, Danielle and I brought Pierre to our family farm and we discussed how important farming and
rural values are to this region. Pierre gets it. He has traveled across this country and has spent a lot of time in rural communities, speaking with farmers and in agriculture and livestock. He knows how valuable our way of life is and he will defend it. He will be an advocate for farmers, protect our hunters and be a defender
for our way of life.
“I am confident that as an Albertan, Conservative Party Leader, Pierre Poilievre, will be a strong voice for the West and the people of Battle—River Crowfoot. I look forward to him joining me back in the riding soon where I will introduce him to our wonderful communities across the region.”
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre made a visit to the Battle River-Crowfoot riding last week.
PHOTO SUBMITTED
SCHS GRADUATING CLASS 1975
FRONT ROW: from left, Karen Bull, Anita Parenteau, Rita Jorgenson, Val Tobias, Michelle Siegel, Rosie Lawson, Heather Kuhn, Shirley Rutherford, Norma McCracken, Charlene Munro and Anita Ferner.
SECOND ROW, Audrey Norris, Norma Gripp, Kathi Karr, Cheryl Hertz, Pat Siferd, Brenda Heatherington, Marg Grudecki, Kim Edwards, Val Berscht, Val Dziuba, Linda Mundt and Glenda Warwick.
THIRD ROW, Willard Gillis, Claire Goodine, Kim Norris, Marj Hoffman, Elaine Booker, Carol Bosch, Faye Foot, Cheryl Duchsherer, Donna Scheuer, Cindy Switzer, Blaine Dirk and Vern Carr.
FOURTH ROW, Gary Weselosky, Rex Yake, Mike Morisset, Randy Woods, Rick Kuzmiski, Ken Orum, George Woods, Erroll Edwards, Mark Bishoff, Lawrence Patterson.
FIFTH ROW, Greg Rafa, Mike Sullivan, Alvin Moore, Brian Bull, Walter Hillje, William McGregor, Doug Dzurko, Ken Bascom and Dean Herron.
We’ve come a long, long Way
BY NORMA GRIPP BROWN
Fifty years later students from the graduating class of South Central High School gathered again in Oyen to reflect, reminisce and share their life experiences over the past five decades. Fifty-four students graduated that day, May 23, 1975, making this reunion of
28 Grade 10, 11 and 12 attendees very successful. They were joined by four of their high school teachers for a supper and breakfast buffet at the Tumbleweed Restaurant in Oyen.
We’ve Come a Long, Long Wayn was the theme for the graduation and title of a poem written for the class by fellow graduate, Anita (Parenteau) Volk.
To All Nurses - Thank you!
National Nurses Week | May 12-18,2025
The Power of Nurses to Transfor m Health
To the nurses who show up not just with skill, but with heart
To those who listen, advocate, comfort, and heal.
You are the quiet strength behind so many of our stories
In our communities, we see you
We see the long hours, the extra effort, the kindness behind every gesture.
You care for our families, our neighbours, and our communities with compassion and grace.
This week, and every week, we thank you
You remind us that care is more than a task it’s a calling
And your calling has the power to transform lives, to transform health, and to transform hope.
With heartfelt gratitude, Special Areas Regional Economic Development
Alvin
Kim
Brenda Heatherington and Bill Smith.
Kneeling on ground and hopefully able to get up! Harold Monagle, Lloyd
Rick Kuzmiski, Lawrence
and
Mike
During the ceremony, Jack Horner, Member of Parliament, was the guest speaker. He pointed out that the world was not an easy one and presented a difficult challenge. That young people must pick their goals and follow through with thought, concentration and hard work. These words of wisdom still stand true this many years later.
Former students attending the reunion were Brian Bull, Karen (Bull) Silbernagle, Kim Edwards, Norma (Gripp) Brown, Brenda Heatherington, Dean Herron, Walter Hillje, Marj (Hoffman) Fink, Rita (Jorgenson) Dillabough, Rick Kuzmiski, Rose (Lawson) Kuzio, Alvin Moore, Linda (Mundt) Sutherland, Kim (Norris) Smith, Bill Smith, Lawrence Patterson Michelle (Siegel) Hager, Michael Sullivan, Val Tobias, Glenda (Warwick) Galloway, Gary Weselosky, George Woods, Randy Woods, Bill Soldan, Lloyd Wagstaff, Holly Flaht, Bill McGregor, Cindy (Switzer) Kunz (missing from photo). Teachers Georgia Sullivan, Harold Monagle, Ken and Joan Mick.
54 Graduate from S.C.H.S.
Reprinted from Oyen Echo June 2, 1975
Graduation exercises for the Grade 12 graduating class of South Central High
School were held last Friday. It was a large graduating class, 54 students. The program booklet was entitled “We’ve Come a Long, Long Way” and contained verses on this theme written by Anita Parenteau.
Ken Mick was in charge of the program and the salutation address was given by Micheal Morisset. Glenda Warwick and Michael Sullivan presented the class history and an entertaining last will and testament was given by Anita Van Otterloo and Rick Hertz.
Arlene Anderson spoke on behalf of the board and Ken Bascom thanked the parents for their patience, love and care. Ann Goodine replied expressing pride in the young people and trust that their educational experiences had helped them formulate a meaningful philosophy of life so that they could walk confidently into the future.
Valedictorian was Cheryl Hertz.
Jack Horner, Member of Parliament was the guest speaker. He pointed out that the world was not an easy one and presented a difficult challenge. The young people must pick their goals and follow through with thought, concentration and hard work.
After the serious exercises were overcome a dance, a party and an early morning breakfast.
Those in the graduating class of 1975 with their Grade 1 teacher at Oyen Public school: from left Norma (Gripp) Brown, Glenda (Warwick) Galloway, Linda Wilson, Karen (Bull) Silbernagle and Michael Sullivan. PHOTO BY LORRAINE VENTURATO-
Backish row, left to right: Randy Woods, Bill Soldan, Brian Bull, Ken Mick, Dean Herron, Joan Mick, Georgia Sullivan,
Moore,
Norris, Bill McGregor, Gary Weselosky, Val Tobias, Norma Gripp, Walter Hillje, Glenda Warwick, George Woods, Linda Mundt, Michelle Siegel,
Wagstaff,
Sullivan,
Patterson, Kim Edwards, Karen Bull, Marj Hoffman, Rita Jorgenson,
Rose Lawson. Cindy Switzer and Holly Flaht (both missing from photo).PHOTO BY DIANA WALKER
OPINION:
BY JOAN JANZEN
People who are labelled the most unlikely to succeed can surprise you. Albert Einstein, the scientific genius, couldn’t speak until he was 4 years old. Later on, he was expelled from one school and refused admittance to another.
Meanwhile, I stumbled across a Canadian man’s story, who was transformed from a lawbreaker to a lawmaker. Serge LeClerk, the former MLA for Saskatoon Northwest, succumbed to cancer in April of 2011; however, I listened to him relay his story in a 2008 video.
His 14-year-old Cree mother ran away from home, was raped, and gave birth to Serge in an abandoned building somewhere in northern Quebec in 1949. “I came from a long line of alcoholics,” he said.
His mother made her way to the inner city of Toronto and worked sixteen hours a day to provide for him for the first years of his life, while they lived at a rooming house. His life of crime began at eight years of age when he skipped school with a group and went shoplifting. “I discovered I wasn’t built for speed,” he laughed. He went to court and was sent to St. John’s training school, where he was beaten and abused, causing him to repeatedly run away.
“I would not tolerate the abuse, and I reacted. My genetic makeup was to fight back,” he explained. By the age of 10, he was caught stealing a station wag-
When the most unlikely to succeed do the impossible
on filled with cigarettes. Because of his aggressive behaviour, he was labelled as having irreparable brain damage and sent to a maximum security training school. By the age of 12, he was living on the streets, and by the time he was 15, he was the leader of the toughest street gang in the city.
He hijacked transport trailers, ran a break and enter crew, bought a garbage truck and used it to empty out stores.
“I discovered you became somebody when you had money. At 15, I bought my first home for $67,000,” he said. “In the 1960s someone approached me and said we have a new product that can make you millions.”
By 1984, he was generating $140 million a year as the co-leader of Canada’s most powerful drug crime families, but he was also an addict. That was also the year he was arrested for operating a $40 million drug lab.
He spent six years in solitary confinement for assaulting guards. “Instead of getting life, I made a deal and went to a maximum-security penitentiary in Quebec. From his cell, he watched a free man come in twice a week, enduring a strip search, and smiling continually while speaking to convicts. Serge couldn’t figure him out.
When the man approached his cell, Serge smashed the door and called him all kinds of names, but the man continued to smile. “I said you must be brain dead, and he said you might be right,” Serge recalled. “I didn’t know what
TO THE EDITOR:
Re: Classroom Economy Motivates Grade 6 Students
Fabulous article! How inventive, clever, engaging, instructive and fun is this approach to classroom organization and meaningful daily expectations.
to say.” But his visitor had a quick response.
“I don’t believe God created any garbage,” the man said. “You’re not stupid. You created a sophisticated drug lab; it took a year and a half for the RCMP to bust you, so you’ve got to be intelligent. You can be anything you choose to be but you have chosen to be a drug dealer and screw up your life and everybody else’s around you. God bless you and have a great day.”
He remembered those words nine months later when he saw a 19-year-old convict commit suicide. Serge went to chapel and was given a Bible. “It said the truth will set me free. That’s what I wanted. It was hard. I had to change what I believed, what I felt, but I had the way to do it - his teaching. And I had people to help me along the way,” he said.
Serge was released in 1988 to a prison ministry, which found an adoptive family for him, with whom he lived for three and a half years while attending university. “I learned how to live like a human being, and of all things, I became a main speaker for Crime Stoppers, working with the police,” he said. “I didn’t know it would happen, but working with Crime Stoppers got me a national pardon in 2000.”
He had applied for the pardon, and Crime Stoppers petitioned the government in a letter-writing campaign from police chiefs and RCMP. “They all said, if anybody aught to have reference to him, it should be us who spent most
of our career putting him behind bars.
We know he is for real and he deserves a pardon,” Serge explained. In 2002, he became the director of Teen Challenge, located near Saskatoon, a faith-based program to help youth struggling with addiction.
“Little did I know that pardon would open up the doors for me to run for MLA in Saskatchewan and become the first man with my criminal record to become an elected MLA and represent Saskatoon northwest as their choice as an elected representative. And to be appointed by the Premier to look into the correctional system, gangs and drugs and find a solution. Because apparently he said I have a lot of experience in that area.” Serge laughed.
He was elected in 2007 to represent the riding in Saskatoon, and resigned from the Saskatchewan Party caucus in April, and as a member of the legislative assembly in August, 2010. In April of 2011 he succumbed to his battle with cancer and passed away.
After his passing, former Premier Brad Wall said, “Serge overcame a very troubled past and went on to touch the lives of thousands of young people with his powerful message about the dangers of drug use.”
Those who are dubbed the most unlikely to succeed often manage to do the impossible. Like the smiling man said, “You can be anything you choose to be.”
Thank you content writer Samantha Johnson for sharing this positive story with us Oyen Echo Subscribers.
Lorraine Weller, Calgary, AB
The Grade 6 students of teacher Kayl Davies are so lucky to experience her unique “real world” student participation along with her teaching them the 3R’s.
LETTERS
POLICY
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Pop89: Transformationally speaking
BY MADONNA HAMEL
It’s been a transformative week. First, we had Mark Carney, recently elected, meeting with the American president, knowing full well he would have to avoid outraging Mr. Mercurial, while at the same time defending Canada against taunts of annexation. He succeeded. In one repeated word (repeated several times, as one would to a toddler): “Never, never, never, never, never.”
The thought of another American in the spotlight, another American bestowed far too much power, is cringeworthy. However, I choose to believe that the cardinals, voting in silence, were moved by the Holy Spirit and “there can be no wrong choice.” Enclosed as the men were in conclave, relieved of cell phones and all electronic equipment, left in silence, they must humbly “let go and let God” do the choosing.
While campaigning and acknowledging his win, Carney referenced Pope Francis’ words of warning to remain “humble.” Carney displayed humble restraint by not countering the claim that “just drew a straight line” and came up with a mutual border. But, please, someone take Trump’s crayon awayin this case, a pencil-and give him a history lesson on the marking of the 49th parallel and the men of the Boundary Commission who laboured through heat, hail, snow, mud, and mosquitoes.
At moments during their conference Carney’s head would cock to one side, or an eye would squint or quiver, giving the impression that he might just be biting his tongue. But the only sign of blood was Trump’s blood-thirsty grab at land, the camera, and credit. With tongue planted firmly in his cheek, Carney called Trump “transformative.” A good choice of words, given “transform” means “to change the condition of”, for good or ill.
Two days later, another transformation. Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago became Pope. What does this mean? And how will Americans behave? Will they secularize the moment, call this a “rags to riches” story? Or describe him, as one commentator already has: “The new CEO of the Vatican.” Some are referring to him as Pope Bob. Others are asking pertinent questions for the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion people, like: Is he a Sox or a Cubs fan? Does he have a Costco membership?
And then came his new name. Pope Leo XIV. After some internet searching, I found Leo XIII’s encyclical called “Rerum Noverum.” Here’s an excerpt:
“The hiring of labor and the conduct of trade are concentrated in the hands of comparatively few; so that a small number of very rich men have been able to lay upon the teeming masses of the laboring poor a yoke little better than that of slavery itself….to exercise pressure upon the indigent and the destitute for the sake of gain, and to gather one’s profit out of the need of another, is condemned by all laws, human and divine.”
Rerum Noverum was written 134 years ago. It could have been written last week. It could not, however, have been written by a secular political leader, as it goes on to warn of the dangers of a secular culture that tries to use revolution as a means to freedom.
Watching and listening, I am beginning to understand why the world needs moderates, those mature and patient enough to understand diplomacy. The Middle Way, as the Buddhists call it, is not about being wishywashy, nor about compromising values and morals, but, it’s about listening. As Canadian cardinal Czerny (my vote for Pope) puts it, “We must listen to everyone; listening is a form of welcoming.”
Pope Leo refrained from speaking English when addressing St. Peter’s Square. After wishing “Peace” in Italian, he turned to Spanish, addressing fellow Peruvians, a reminder that he is the world’s Pope. (I also appreciate his invitation to pray a Hail Mary. Mary is a Catholic’s intercessor; we call on her the way we often go through Mom to in-
fluence Dad.)
Upon reflection, I wonder if an American pope isn’t the only answer we have when it comes to saving Christianity from the current high-jacking of the faith by Christian Nationalists who, laying their hands upon him, refer to Trump as the chosen one. Christians unaligned with the Christian Nationalists are leaving their churches in droves. Never, (never, never, never, never) would they choose Trump as their saviour. Ever since Francis’ death, I’ve been tuned in to the news because: how often do we get to hear mainstream anchors and pundits speak of things spiritual? When again shall the voice of the Spirit be the deciding factor in a vote? It is both touching and amusing to watch a secular reporter scramble for the right word to describe this religious moment. And now that we have an American pope, will he call to attention to the correct use of scripture in a global way? Leo’s response to Vance’s misuse of Christ’s words on Love is a case in point.
A pope is beyond the grasp or threat of political reprisal. Congress is too afraid of the president. And the press - whether proTrump or con - is having a field day with ratings and viewership. The claim that Trump is bad for America but good for ratings makes the press a suspect force of good for the soul. But attention to matters of Spirit and soul is the role of a pope.
The word “religion” means “to re-link”. When speaking in the language of soul we are sweetly, if briefly, relinked to forces above and beyond us, inexplicable and sublime, forces which can help transcend the normalized hurt and violence of this world. We can transform for good.
I realize I’ve been talking a lot about religion lately. It wasn’t my intention. Thankfully, I have an understanding editor. But I can’t be afraid anymore to use the only vocabulary that works in these transformative times. My vocabulary is big enough to embrace doubt, discernment and discussion. It seeks to address the short-sightedness of secular relativism and, ultimately, look to the mysterious heavens.
Oyen RCMP and Toronto Police Service investigate extortion – charges laid
OYEN - In December of 2024, Oyen RCMP received a report that a youth from the Oyen area had fallen victim to an online extortion. Oyen RCMP conducted a thorough investigation which included obtaining judicial authorizations to obtain information associated to the suspects social media accounts, email accounts, and banking information. Through the course of the investigation, a male resident of North York, Ontario, was identified. Oyen RCMP collaborated with Toronto Police Service to have a search warrant executed on the male’s residence, and sub-
sequently have the suspect arrested and charged.
Abdul-Waris Omotolani Shittu (24), has been charged with the following offences:
• Making sexually explicit material available to a child
• Extortion
• Possession of child pornography
• Access child pornography
• Distribute child pornography
Abdul-Waris Omotolani Shittu is set to appear in court in the Toronto area on May 30, 2025.
Truck Works Inc.
Canadian goaltending talent falling behind
BY BRUCE PENTON
The days of Canadian goaltending dominance in the National Hockey League are long gone. The Europeans have taken over the position made glamorous by the likes of Canadian stars Patrick Roy, Martin Brodeur, Ken Dryden, Jacques Plante, Carey Price and Roberto Luongo.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
Check out the most recent NHL goaltending stats and you’ll find a preponderance of European stars, a few Americans and then a couple of Canadians in the latter half of the top 10.
At the top of the list is the Winnipeg Jets’ American goalie Connor Hellebuyck, who will likely win this year’s Vezina Trophy as the league’s best. The Russian, Andrei Vasilevskiy, is generally regarded as No. 2 while Russian Sergei Bobrovsky of the defending Cup champion Florida Panthers, Swede Filip Gustavsson of Minnesota, American Jake Oettinger of Dallas and Russian Ilya Sorokin are scattered among the top 10.
A couple of Canadian netminders show up on this list (Adin Hill of Vegas, Darcy Kuemper of Los Angeles and Logan Thompson of Washington), but none are regarded as game-changers the way Czech star Dominik Hasek was for the Sabres and Red Wings in the 1990s when he compiled an amazing career save percentage of .922. Hellebucyk at .925 was the only goalie surpassing Hasek’s career record this season.
How dominant are non-Canadian netminders? Seven of the last eight Vezina winners — Marc-Andre Fleury broke the streak in 2021 — have been either
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
American or European. It’s almost enough to make Glenn Hall throw up.
(For you youngsters out there, Hall was a Saskatchewan-born goaltending star for the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1960s who reportedly vomited prior to every game when his nerves got the better of him.)
In the regular season just completed, more than half the games, 52 per cent, featured a European goaltender, according to a report in The Athletic. Canadian goalies played in 26 per cent of the games, while 23 per cent of the games were covered by a U.S.-born goalie.
Jon Elkin, who works with Pittsburgh Penguins’ goalies and runs a summer goaltending school in Toronto, told The Athletic the situation isn’t dire. “It’s not the end of the world here,” says Elkin. “It’s not as bleak as I think it’s made out to be.”
“There’s really no focus on goaltending development in minor hockey at all,” said Rob Gherson, a former Washington Capitals’ draft pick, in The Athletic story. “That’s one area we’ve definitely fallen behind. Other places — Sweden, the U.S., Russia — they’ve put money into goaltending, and they’ve put a focus on trying to develop goalies.”
There was grave concern about the goaltending situation among Canadian hockey fans in February when the 4 Nations FaceOff was held. How could we ever stack up against the Americans when they had Hellebuyck in goal and Canada was stuck with Hill, Jordan Binnington or Sam Montembault? Well, we know how that played out. Binnington was absolutely sensational and Canada took the title.
Perhaps, like Elkin said, it’s not as bleak as it’s made out to be.
• Super 70s Sports: “‘And now let’s go over to 15, where it looks like our co-leader is going to have to shape one around a brick. What’s he got, Verne?’ ‘A putter, Jim. They all have putters.’”
• Comedy writer Torben Rolfsen of Vancouver:
“Duke’s Cooper Flagg received the John Wooden award, which fittingly consists of a manila envelope filled with large, unmarked bills.”
• Sportswriter Ray Ratto of San Francisco, in a pre-Kentucky Derby story: “Kids just don’t go to the track anymore, which is a shame because it remains a great place for young people to learn to smoke cigarettes and leave the butts in someone else’s beer.”
• Torben Rolfsen again: “What’s with that harmonica group playing the national anthem in Los Angeles? The Oilers should have countered with the Schmenge Brothers.”
• One more from Rolfsen: “The NFL held its draft in a Green Bay parking lot. Shedeur Sanders got a ticket for staying too long.”
• A little bit of Canadian sports and politics, from the parody website The Beaverton: “Op-Ed: ‘Say what you will about us, at least we never blew a 27-point lead,’ by Auston Matthews.”
• Janice Hough of leftcoastsportsbabe.com: “Two favourites in Kentucky Derby: Journalism vs Sovereignty. Seems a little too on brand for our country right now.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “In just their fifth win of the season against 25 losses, the Colorado Rockies snapped an eight-game losing streak by beating the Braves 2-1. After the win, players had to ask each other how to celebrate.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Bill Belichick’s girlfriend instructs him to deny that she’s too controlling.”
• Steve Simmons of the Toronto Sun, on the Mount Rushmore of coaches from all sports, naming basketball’s Greg Popovich and hockey’s Scotty Bowman: “Bill Belichick would probably be alongside them, so long as he gets permission from his girlfriend to be included.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
Former MP throws support behind Poilievre
Dear Editor,
I want to weigh into the discussion about our current MP Damien Kurek temporarily stepping aside in order to trigger a by-election so that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre will be able to run for a seat in Parliament. I had the distinct pleasure of serving the Battle River-Crowfoot constituency from 2000 to 2019 as their Member of Parliament. I also have the unique perspective of knowing both Pierre and Damien. Pierre is one of the hardest working MPs that I have
met. He listens to Canadians and has always stood for common sense policies that Canada needs and this region respects. This is the voice our country needs. I have known Damien since he was in high school starting to volunteer on my campaign, and I have known him to be a principled and ethical MP who has become an effective political voice for this region over three terms.
This last election was a tough one to lose. Even though we are disappointed, we increased our seat count by 25, received 2 million more votes than the previous election, and saw the Liberals attempt to steal many of the Conservatives’ main campaign commitments. The fact that Damien and his wife Danielle have decided to put Canada first by resigning his seat
to allow Pierre Poilievre to run in a by-election is a selfless act of sacrifice in service to Canada. Pierre is the right Leader for the Conservative Party and needs a seat in Parliament, so he can hold the Carney-led Liberals to account, and run once again to be our Prime Minister.
I want to share that as a former Battle River-Crowfoot MP, Harper Cabinet Minister, someone who knows both Pierre and Damien, and as someone who has called this region home my entire life, I fully endorse this and encourage the constituents of Battle River-Crowfoot who voted for Damien, to fully support Pierre in the upcoming by-election.
Thank you.
Hon. Kevin Sorenson
Acadia Municipal Library
BY TRICIA FISCHBUCH Library Manager
This week’s new books are Maya and Natasha by Elyse Durham in adult fiction and Bearsuit Turtle Makes a Friend by Bob Shea in the picture book section.
The movie Dog Man will be showing after school on May 13th at 3:30PM. Free popcorn and juice. Bring a friend!
You may notice a library survey arriving in your mailbox. We are asking for residents’ input on how the library is doing and how we can better serve the community. Hard copies are also available at the library. The deadline to submit is May 22nd.
“One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for 1,000 years. To read is to voyage through time.”
Carl Sagan
a welding apprenticeship that is proving to be interesting and challenging. After graduation, I plan on working and enrolling in the Heavy Equipment Technician Program.
Felicity Bueckert
education while playing baseball for the Beavers.
Rylan Caplette
My name is Felicity Meadow Bueckert, but most of my family and close friends call me Fliss. I was raised by my parents, Bryon and Nicole Bueckert, on various ranches across Southern Alberta, which gave me my very diverse educational journey and hobbies. I started school at Hays Elementary, then went to Livingstone High School for grades 3-7, homeschooled for grade 8, went to Upper Halfway Elementary and Junior High for grade 9, did online school for most of grade 10, and finally came to Oyen to finish my high school education. Growing up in so many different areas sparked a wide range of interests. Music has always been a passion of mine, so I taught myself guitar and piano. This hobby led to an interest and a talent in languages, so I took some classes on High German in grade 10, despite ironically struggling in my English classes. I am also a huge nerd and love anything science, especially animal biology. Sports have also been a significant part
of my life from playing basketball or softball, to snowboarding, which I’ve been doing for nearly ten years. However, my true passion has always been horses and cattle, as it’s what I grew up with. Looking ahead, I plan on being a snowboard instructor while attending university, and my ultimate goal is to become a large animal veterinarian combining my passion for ranch life with a desire to make a difference in the lives of animals.
Braxton Bussing
My name is Braxton Bussing, and when I was four years old, my family moved from Calgary to Coronation to live on our family farm, sharing a yard with my grandparents. My parents, Tim and Candice Bussing, raised me alongside my two younger sisters, Bronwen and Georgia. I attended Coronation School from kindergarten through Grade 11 and also spent part of Grades 10 and 11 playing baseball as part of the Neutral Hills Academy. For Grade 12, I moved to Oyen to play baseball with the Badgers and have been fortunate to billet with the Caskey family this past year. Last summer, I had the incredible opportunity to represent Team Alberta at the Canada Cup in Fort McMurray. I’m passionate about sports—especially baseball, hockey, and golf— and I enjoy spending time with friends. This fall, I’ll be heading to Minot State University in North Dakota, where I’ll be studying health and physical
My name is Rylan Caplette-Tarrant, but most people in Oyen know me as Capper. I’m the youngest son of Denise Caplette and Allan Tarrant, with an older brother, Dustin, and a sister-in-law, Krysta. I became an uncle at age eight to my niece Ava and nephew Clay. My love for baseball started at just 1.5 years old, and I’ve been passionate about it ever since—using whatever I could, even empty water jugs as tees, to practice when no one was around. I began school at St. Agnes in Moose Jaw, SK, where I played volleyball and basketball, then attended Vanier Collegiate for Grades 9 and 10 before moving to Oyen, Alberta, to finish school and play for the Badland Badgers. Over the years, I’ve played various sports, including soccer and football, but baseball has always been my focus since joining the Yankees in 2016. I enjoy video games with friends, board games with family, and have traveled to several places in Mexico, as well as Toronto for a Blue Jays game. After high school, I plan to attend Highland Community College in Illinois to study Criminal Justice and continue my baseball career, with hopes of transferring to a four-year university.
Luke Caskey
I’m Luke Caskey, son of Trent and Christie Caskey, and I was born and
raised in Oyen. Sports have always been a big part of my life. Whether it’s baseball, volleyball, basketball,or hockey, I’m all in. I also love the outdoors and dream of life in the mountains. There’s something about speeding down a ski hill on my snowboard or tearing up the trails on my mountain bike that makes me feel alive! My love for the outdoors goes beyond just adventure—I’m also an avid hunter. I spend hours out looking for deer, gophers, and coyotes, and every now and then, I try my hand at ice fishing. But at the end of the day, my heart belongs on the prairies, at the farm. Whether it’s seeding, bailing, harvesting, fixing machinery, feeding cows, or chasing calves with my dad and grandpa, that’s my true happy place. Over the past three years, I’ve been lucky enough to play competitive baseball with the Badland Badger Academy, taking part in AA & AAA ball each summer. Through baseball, I’ve made lifelong friends and created memories I’ll never forget. Looking ahead, I’m planning to pursue Agriculture Management at Olds College this fall. I’m incredibly grateful for the community of Oyen, my coaches, our Crescent neighbors, and of course, my family, who have all played such a big role in shaping the person I am today.
Dyson deBussac
My name is Dyson deBussac, or “Dys” as my family and friends refer
to me as, and I am the son of Lindsay deBussac. I am a proud graduate of SCHS, where I completed grades 8 through 12 after beginning my education at OPS from Kindergarten to Grade 7. I have always had a passion for the outdoors and sports, and spend a lot of my time playing baseball and hockey, solving puzzles, hunting, fishing, or enjoying a well-earned nap. My favorite school memory is a trip to Waterton with the Scorps baseball team and close friend Aaron Thornton — a memory that reflects my love for both nature and team spirit. As I look to the future, I plan to pursue a career in Power Engineering.
Gary Dornan
My name is Gary, and I’m from Alma, New Brunswick, Canada. I spent a year at Riverside Consolidated School before moving to Moncton, where I attended Birchmount School and Harrison Trimble High School. I started playing baseball at the age of five and instantly fell in love with the game. It’s always been my favorite thing, and for years it was the only sport I played— until high school, when I also got into track and field. Growing up, I spent countless hours playing catch with my brother Ivan and my dad at the local ball fields. When they were done playing, I’d head to the school next door to my house, and play wall ball on my own. Looking ahead, I plan to play college baseCONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Luke Caskey
Dyson deBussac
Gary Dornan
Payton Duffield
Bryce Fitzgerald
Shania Gillis-Johnson CONTINUED
ball while earning my education. After my playing days are all said and done, I hope to pursue a career as a plumber.
Payton Duffield
My name is Payton Jorja Duffield, commonly known as PDuff, and I am the daughter of Steven and Stacey Duffield. I come from a family of 4 children and take the spot of the baby; they clearly saved the best for last!
I attended Oyen Public School from kindergarten to grade 7, then made the switch over to South Central High School for grades 8-12. I currently enjoy reading, playing baseball and volleyball, and being on the farm. I plan to attend Medicine Hat College for the Bachelor of Nursing program in the fall of 2025. Throughout the past year, I have been working at Oyen Long Term Care, which has fueled my passion to help those in need. I am extremely excited to move forward in life and to start my career as a Registered Nurse.
Bryce Fitzgerald
My name is Bryce Fitzgerald, and I was born on July 31st, 2007, in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. My parents are Marilyn and Duane Fitzgerald. I was raised in the town of Yarmouth for my entire childhood, where I started my academic journey at
Meadowfields Community School for K-6, and Maple Grove Education Centre for grades 7 and 8, before starting my high school years at Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial High School. To complete my high school education, I moved across the country to attend South Central High School and play baseball for the Badlands Baseball Academy. During this time, I have developed a love for sports, video games, and guitar playing (which I learned from dad). My future plan is to become a teacher and attend Peru State College to play baseball.
Shania Gillis-Johnson
Hello :) My name is Shania Gillis-Johnson, but my closest friends and family call me Nia. I have the most amazing mom ever, Charlene Gillis, who has shaped me in the best ways growing up. Even though my two sisters, Taelor and Sinead, and I very often fight and bicker over little things that drive my mom up the wall, she stays constant with her love for us, and it’s because of her that I have grown to be the person that I am today. Throughout grade school, for as long as I can remember, we’ve moved every few years, dating back to third grade (that I remember), attending a few schools in Oliver, BC, Ponoka, AB, as well as here in Oyen. Because of moving around a lot, I’ve picked up some hobbies that require little to no attachment to a specific place, including reading, baking, and sewing. My
favourite memory while at South Central would probably be when I made my first 3-pointer ever in the last basketball game of the season. A few of my favourite sayings would either be “Que sera, sera” which means “what will be, will be” or “it’s because i’m brown, isn’t it?” which is what I always say when my friends and I are joking around with each other. I’m glad to be finishing off my journey through high school at this school. To end, I would like to give a shoutout to my twin!
Sinead Gillis-Johnson
Hello, my name is Sinead, and I am 17 and finally graduating! Growing up, I was sort of everywhere, which was confusing as a younger kid, but I am happy to be finishing my schooling where I started, which is here in Oyen. Oyen has always been the place my family and I come back to; with grands and greatgrands having lived here at some point in their lives, it feels fitting that I have also lived here a couple times during mine! My mom, Charlene Gillis, has always pushed me to be the best version of myself, even though I know I haven’t made it easy. Being the youngest of eight—many of them half-siblings from my dad’s side—definitely played a part in that. I only grew up with two of my sisters at home, so it was easy to feel distant from the rest, but after all these years, I can’t imagine life in a big, bustling household anyway. Now,
as I graduate alongside my twin sister, Shania, I wouldn’t have it any other way. We’ve always had each other, whether it was choosing seats in a new classroom or just having someone familiar around when no one else knew us. The changes coming next year will be a big adjustment for many of us, but it’s all part of growing up. Wishing the best of luck to all the grads this year!
Johnathan Herron Hello, my name is Johnathan Melvin Herron, but most of you probably already know me. Starting my life in the prairies, I grew up living on a farm 5 minutes away from Esther with Mom and Dad, and my 3 sisters. My early years consisted of playing around with whatever dangerous equipment I could come across, smashing whatever guitar I was gifted as a kid, and spending countless hours behind a screen playing games. My education started at New Brigden School, but after grade 3 I switched school and attended OPS in Oyen. One year later, our family ended up moving to town. Here, as I lived out my teenage years, my true passions began to be built. During these years I would finally take up a musically inspired career, with me joining a band and playing the drums. Although I didn’t stick with this instrument, my musical aspirations did not subside, as I have transitioned to playing guitar. Rock, Metal, Nu-Metal, Heavy
metal, and even video game OSTs have shaped the way I look at music, and inspirations, such as Jimmy Hendrix, Mick Tompson of Slipknot, and Tony Perry of Pierce The Veil, only served to further fuel my ambitions as I further improve my skills. With my future ahead of me, I’m finally ready to leave Oyen to see what lies ahead!
Nolan Hill
My name is Nolan Hill, and I live in the small town of Lower Wedgeport with my parents, Leanne Doucette and Adam Hill, and my cat. I live around most of my mom’s side of the family, and they’re always there whenever I need something. My dad played baseball for a long time in his life, so the second I was old enough to swing a bat he had me in the backyard teaching me. Lower Wedgeport is a small French town, therefore, my mom grew up speaking French. I went to a French elementary school, and a French middle/high school until grade 8. I transferred to my old high school during my 8th grade year, and at that time, I was just there for school. However, when the basketball coach saw how tall I was at 13, he asked me to play. I’ve continued to play basketball every year since then. At the end of grade 11, I had the opportunity to come to Oyen, away from home and my parents, to play baseball for the academy. Of course, I would want to do that, I’ve wanted to
play baseball for an academy for years. My parents liked the idea and saw it as a way for me to be better prepared for college. I could only come here if I paid a little portion of my schooling, so I picked up a job at Kent Building Supplies to make some extra money. I came here knowing it would be tough, as I’ve never really been away from home.
On September 1st, 2024, I left my parents, my entire family, my girlfriend, and everything familiar to me. This experience has been challenging, but worth it! I have enjoyed my time at the academy, made some new buddies, and am now a proud SCHS graduate!
Rachel Jaques I was born on April 17, 2007 in Calgary to Byron and Tanya Jaques. My full name is Rachel Marie Jaques, but I am known as Rach or Rachy. I have two younger sisters and two cats. I started Pre-K with the Jenner play group and started kindergarten
Sinead Gillis-Johnson
Johnathan Herron Nolan Hill
Rachel Jaques
Carissa Kearsley Beauchesne Kylie Kostiuk
time, and racing to get back to the school before the bell rang. In the future, I hope to attend the New Zealand College of Chiropractic and fulfill my goal of being a chiropractor and improving individuals’ everyday lives.
Baxton Mundt
I am Baxton Daniel Mundt, but most call me B-boss. I am the son of Chandra and Rob Mundt, alongside my sister, Joelle. I started kindergarten and finished grade 12 here in Oyen. I’ve spent my years playing all the sports I could; volleyball, hockey, badminton, soccer, and basketball. The odd time I help on the farm, but I prefer to focus on my athletics and academics. I plan to attend the U of A in Edmonton in the Faculty of Engineering to pursue robotics. I also plan to work on my other interests, such as music.
Caleb Oickle
My name is Caleb Oickle, and I grew up in Liverpool, Nova Scotia. My parents are Danielle and Richard, and I have a younger brother named Carter. I’ve been playing baseball since I was young, and in Grade 11, I was given the opportunity to join the Badlands Baseball Academy in Oyen, Alberta. Outside of baseball, I enjoy fishing, working out, and playing on the high school basketball team. During the summer, I work at Cos-
by’s Garden Centre. My time in Oyen has been an amazing experience, and I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to travel across North America doing what I love. Baseball has taken me from coast to coast in Canada and to both the northern and southern United States. Next year, I plan to attend Central Maine Community College to pursue a diploma in Plumbing and Heating Technology.
Jasmine Palmer
I’m Jasmine Leigh Palmer, but most people call me Jaz, Jazzy, or even Jazzy Wazzy. I’m the daughter of Tammy and Jason Palmer, and I’ve always had a passion for music and sports. Whether I’m playing an instrument or getting active on the field, I love being in the zone and pushing myself. Though I haven’t settled on one favorite school memory, I’ve made plenty of good times with friends along the way. As for the future, I have a few options I’m considering; I’m thinking about becoming a carpenter, welder, or maybe even joining the police force. I’m not sure exactly where I’ll end up, but I’m excited to take on whatever comes next.
Presley Robertson
My name is Presley Robertson, and I grew up on a farm northeast of Oyen, where we farm and raise cattle. I have 2 sisters and 1 brother. I am a health care aide in long term care in Oyen, and I plan to continue there full-time until I head to school to get my LPN. In my free time, I like to hang out with my friends, play hockey, golf with my
Class of CONGRATULATIONS
family, and spend time at our seasonal. I’ll definitely miss seeing my friends every day, but I look forward to what the future holds!
Reese Skappak
My name is Reese Skappak. I come from a family of five, with my parents, Chad and Tami, and my younger brothers, Rylan and Conner. I attended Warren Peers School in Acadia Valley from kindergarten through Grade 9, then finished high school at SCHS from Grades 10 to 12. I spend most of my time outdoors, either riding my quad or sled, and when I’m not out riding, I’m usually in the shop fixing them. I also love pulling my trailer around and camping, whether it’s ice fishing on a frozen lake at -20°C or enjoying a warm spring weekend by the river. I don’t have just one favorite school memory because there are so many, but I’ll always remember riding around with Nator in the Exploder, tearing up the parking lot. After graduation, I plan to attend Vermilion to study electrical, with the goal of one day starting my own business.
Paisley Thornton
My name is Paisley
Emerson Thornton, and I am the second child of Andrea and Garret Thornton. My journey to graduation has been shaped by the experiences that have meant the most to me, including: growing up on my family farm, summers at the lake, making memories with my friends, and countless hours at the dance studio-where my heart truly lies. I attended NBS and ARC for elementary school, and then moved on to SCHS for my junior high and high school years. My time at SCHS helped me grow into a well-rounded individual, balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and personal growth.
Next year, I plan to attend SAIT in Calgary to pursue the Dental Assisting program. I’m excited to start this new chapter and work toward my goal of becoming a Registered Dental Hygienist. I’ve always been drawn to healthcare and the opportunity to help people, and I’m eager to embark on this career path. I’m grateful for the support from my family, teachers, and friends, and I look forward to the future with excitement and determination.
Talen Thornton Hello, my name is Talen Reid Thornton. My parents are Aaron and Karen-Ann Thornton. I started my education at Oyen Public School from Preschool all the way up until grade 7. In grade 8, I moved over to SCHS, but in grade 9, I moved to Medicine Hat and attended Notre Dame Academy for 6 months because of hockey. I returned to Oyen at the end of grade 9 and have been at SCHS ever since. I’ve played hockey ever since I could walk and was lucky enough to travel all over Alberta playing the game I love. I was introduced to hunting at a very young age and have loved it ever since. November is a very busy time of the year for my family and I, because if we are not at the rink, we’re hunting, and if we’re not hunting, we are at the rink. I’ve played Scorps baseball since grade 8, and it was always something I could look forward to during the school year. I also played on the high school basketball team in grades 10, 11, and 12. After high school, I plan on continuing my education at SAIT, where I will take Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics.
Haylee Wagstaff
Hello, my name is Haylee Wagstaff, or as some people refer to me, Hayhay. I’m the middle daughter of Quinn and Jamie, and I was born and raised on a ranch close to Sedalia. In my spare time I like to spend it with my horses, out with the cattle, or playing volleyball. My future plans for next year are going to Olds College to take Agricultural Management Diploma.
Caleb Oickle
Presley Robertson Reese Skappak Paisley Thornton
Talen Thornton
Haylee Wagstaff CONTINUED
Jasmine Palmer Baxton Mundt
Starting next year, Alberta’s T1 tax form will include a check box so Albertans can request information on the importance of organ and tissue donation.
Hundreds of Albertans are waiting for life-saving organ or tissue transplants. By making it easier to learn more about donation, Alberta’s government is helping raise awareness and potentially increasing the number of registered donors across the province.
Starting with the 2025 tax year, Alberta’s T1 tax form will include a check box that allows Albertans to ask for more information about organ and tissue donation. Those who check the box will receive an email from the provincial government with details about how donation works in Alberta and how to register their wishes.
“This simple step can help save lives. The more Albertans who register, the more patients and families can hold on to hope for a second chance. We hope this change encourages more Albertans to start the conversation and register their wishes.”
Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health
This initiative builds on Bill C-210, introduced by former Alberta MLA and member of Parliament Len Webber. The bill, which received royal assent in June 2021,
allows provinces to add a donation information check box to federal tax forms. Alberta is following the lead of British Columbia and Ontario. Ontario has seen a 32 per cent increase in registrations since adding the check box.
In addition, organ and tissue donation programming will now fall under Acute Care Alberta, ensuring provincewide coordination and enhancing the efficiency of the donation and transplant system.
Alberta’s government is committed to raising awareness about organ and tissue donation. Albertans can learn more about organ and tissue donation, and register their wishes on the Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry at GiveLifeAlberta.ca.
Quick facts
• 899,868 Albertans have registered their consent to become an organ and tissue donor as of April 28.
• One organ donor can save up to eight lives, while one tissue donor can improve the lives of up to 75 people.
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FCSS recognized area volunteers
BY DIANA WALKER
The theme for National Volunteer Week 2025 was Volunteers Make Waves. This theme highlights the power of individual and collective volunteer efforts in creating positive change and building a more connected world. The idea is that every act of volunteering,
like a wave, creates ripples of impact, inspiring others and shaping communities.
Oyen FCSS prepared a free dinner for volunteers at the centre on Main Street, Monday, April 28. Attendees also received swag bags and entered their name into the draw box. Vicki Smale received a Spa Basket; Lawrence Hanson a Tool Set.
Town of Oyen Library Booknotes
BY DAYNA WILSON Library Manager
FICTION: Enigma / by: RuNyx
NON_FICTION:
Pruning
PERIODICALS:
have added a curbside service option as well. If you prefer to pick up materials this way, please call ahead or email to let us know which day to put them out.
*If you are unable to come out to the library due to physical conditions we can do deliveries within the town limits. Please just give us a call at the number listed below.
From left, Maryann Oliver (Executive Director), Chris Wilkinson (Project Co-ordinator), Pam Stark (Volunteer Co-ordinator) and Karlene Hrappsted (Court and Support Navigator). PHOTOS BY NANCY HANSON
Krewski memoir moments
BY BERNIE KREWSKI
What we learn from history is that there is no single component to events and stories that arise in the past. They usually contain many strands, some visible and some less so.
An example is my life as it was unfolding in the year 1965. I was then a graduate student studying history at the University of Alberta. The fact that I was there was not highly predictable.
I am a first-generation Canadian, my illiterate father emigrating from the poverty-stricken area known as Galicia in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. My mother, born in Canada to parents who migrated to Manitoba in 1899 from the same area in Europe, attended school to the sixth grade. They homesteaded near Oyen Alberta for sixteen years in the dryland district known as the Palliser Triangle, barely! What followed was my father’s employment as a railway maintenance man for the Canadian National Railways in Oyen and Alsask Saskatchewan while raising six children. Never owning a motor vehicle symbolizes a much larger story.
In 1980, quite by chance, I had the honour of meeting the now retired Supreme Court Justice Rosalie Abella when she was a Family Court judge in Toronto. Warm, humorous and personable, she is an outstanding Canadian. Born in a German Displaced Persons camp in 1946, she recently noted in a documentary film about her life that new immigrants rarely have established career plans and goals – they simply want to “do good.” That fits the circumstances of my own career aspirations.
My high school education in Oyen in the 1950s, preceded the flourishing and more prosperous educational opportunities that occurred a few years later – as Doug Owram writes in “Born at the Right Time: A History of the Baby Boom Generation” (1997). It provided the basics and not much more. Thus, the learning curve for me entering a large university, was steep and challenging, devoid of scholarships and financial support, like many others with similar backgrounds as mine. While I happened to win the prize for European History when I graduated with a Bachelors’ degree, I thought it was a stroke of good look and nothing more. Summer employment to finance further studies was clearly essential so attending graduation ceremonies was no option.
My primary research interest in graduate studies was American History, influenced by a professor, an exceptional teacher, from whom I learned the art and value of questioning historical events, seeking new ways of explaining them.
Two events in 1965, however, fractured my studies. I was deeply tormented by American military intervention in Vietnam - later described in David M. Smith’s “Endless Holocaust: Mass Death in the History of the United States Empire” (2023), and Robert J. McMahon’s scholarly paper, “Contested Memory: The Vietnam War and American Society, 1975-2001” As author Nikil Saval notes in an essay published this month, the Vietnam war in the 1960s and 1970s “was a matter of urgent concern in politics and scholarship alike.” It ended fifty years ago on April 30 this year.
During this time of uncertainty, my greatly admired thesis advisor left to teach at the University of Oregon. His successor, an “old school” professor, navy veteran and recent arrival from the U.S., was less than helpful. His stay at the University of Alberta was brief (although his Wikipedia citation says he was teaching at the University of Saskatchewan!).
At that time, due to the lack of space at the university’s major library, I was one of three students given a place to study in a former two story, three-bedroom residence on campus. The other students were an Australian studying African History and a student from Taiwan studying Chinese History. Called the “History House,” the setting was ideal. Twenty-four access and solitude allowed me to study late into the night, hours after the library closed.
This was a phase in my learning when I cultivated the “Powers of Reading” – the title of a recent book by Peter Szendy.
In early July 1965 I had an unexpected visitor. He asked if I could help him revise a paper he was preparing for a course in American History, a subject about which his knowledge was limited.
This well-dressed man said he was working on his Ph.D. in the Faculty of Education and taking summer classes. He was employed full-time as the superinten-
I
am a first-generation Canadian, my illiterate father emigrating from the poverty-stricken area known as Galicia in the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
dent of a school district on the NWT/Alberta border. As well, his wife had recently given birth to a baby a few months before. In other words, he was dealing with “a lot on his plate.”
I was both puzzled and intimidated by his request. By no means was I a promising scholar like the core group of students studying Canadian, British and German history. As well, I carried uncomfortable memories from high school when the local school superintendent (Walter Worth, later Alberta Dept. Minister of Education) inspected our notebooks – mine were in disarray, especially compared to my female classmates – Joyce Kuich, Marna Corkish, Edna Furneaux, and Karen Hedman.
Nonetheless, I edited and suggested some revisions to his paper. To express his gratitude, he gave me two books. One is particularly notable: Machiavelli (1469 – 1527) is commonly regarded as the father of modern political philosophy – and especially how to exercise power.
This man, as readers may surmise, was Robert James Carney whose son Mark was born on March 16, 1965.
When Mark Carney entered the Liberal leadership race, early news reports raised questions about his father, the principal of a federal Indian day-school in the Northwest Territories. While acknowledging their deficiencies, Robert Carney also defended some of their benefits. That currently quickly draws much critical attention. Carney distanced himself from those comments, stating “I love my father, but I don’t share those views.” This story faded from the front pages as events in the leadership race and election campaign unfolded.
Apart from being associated with the residential school controversy, Robert Carney became well known in Alberta for other reasons. He ran for a seat in the NWT Legislature in September 1965 - the year I met him. He was subsequently appointed Chief of School Programs, NWT Dept. of Education. Moving to Edmonton in 1971, he became an Associate Professor, Faculty of Education. Other merits followed: Chair, Edmonton Catholic School Trustees; Advisor to Alberta Northern Development Group; Deputy Minister, Alberta Dept. of Education, Parks, and Wildlife; Deputy Regional Director, Federal Indian Affairs; Board Member, Misericordia Hospital; National Parole Board; University of Alberta Board of Governors.
Another historical strand occurred in September 1972 when Robert Carney, then executive director of the Alberta School Trustees Association, met with Walter Worth, the Deputy Minister of Education, who had just completed a report on the governance of schools.
In March 1991 Carney he was commissioned by twenty-five Catholic religious orders to investigate living conditions in residential schools. His interim report in the Edmonton Journal published on June 2 had this headline “Alarming Conditions Reported.” In a July progress report, he noted 15 of 240 former students interviewed had been raped by members of the clergy.
Robert James Carney died in Nanaimo BC December 9, 2009.
Oyen Lodge News
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello, everyone. The Oyen Lodge would like to welcome John Rolheiser as our summer student this year. John is doing a fantastic job working with maintenance, getting all the outdoor projects done. The courtyard is starting to look amazing. The pond is getting cleaned and ready for the fish next week. Solar lights have been put up in the gazebo. Thanks to Bev Haag for all the work she does with the plants around the pond and the flower beds.
Monday morning started with exercises, followed by a one-on-one scrabble game with a resident. Amazingly, I actually won a game. There was Catholic Church with Father Rodell at 10:30. In the afternoon there was bingo.
Tuesday morning started with exercises, and the regular bus run downtown for the residents to do their shopping. Before lunch there was walking outdoors. In the afternoon there was an ice cream parlor. Happy Birthday to Phyllis Peterson on May 6th.
Wednesday morning started with crossword games, followed by walking indoors because of the windy day. In the afternoon there were shuffleboard games.
Thursday morning started with exercises, and ATB Financial was at the Lodge from 1011:00 a.m. for the residents to do their banking. Before lunch we walked indoors again be-
cause it was too windy to walk outside. Thursday afternoon the Grade 9 class that did the story writing activity in the month of march, was at the Lodge for the windup party to present the book that was published about the students and some of the residents. Each student and resident that was involved in the story writing activity received a copy of the book. It was an interesting and wonderful experience both for the residents and the students. The residents can’t wait to publish another book next year with a new bunch of students. Cake and iced tea were served for the occasion. Thanks to the Grade 9 class and the teachers for a great activity for the residents.
Friday morning started with horse races. #6 horse Topsy, was the top winner that day and paid the most for his winning race. In the afternoon there was the Mother’s Day Party, which miniature angel food cakes with a cream topping and strawberries were served. Friday was “National Moscato Day” so Rose” Moscato was served with their cake. The ladies were presented with Impatien plants for their Mother’s Day gift. Thanks to Rob Shields for entertaining us with his music. Friday evening there was music by Jorgenson’s.
Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms and hope you enjoyed your special day. Have a great week everyone.
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We try our best to keep events up-to-date, but if you see an error or have a cancellation, please let us know!
ALSASK
- Drop in Pickleball every Tuesday 8:00 PM at the Alsask Rec Centre. All ages are welcome.
BINDLOSS
SATURDAY, JUNE 7
• Bindloss Sports Days Mixed SlowPitch Tournament. Food Truck, Dance, DJ: Will Mohl. For more info and to enter, contact Mark at 403-928-5838.
CEREAL
- Cereal Cottages Coffee on Tuesdays 10:30 - 11:30 AM
- Quilting Club weekly Wednesdays 10:00 AM - 4 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
- Cereal Playground most Tuesdays 10:00 AM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
EMPRESS
SUNDAY, MAY 18
• Empress & District Historical Society presenting ASTROPHOTOGRAPHY: Window to the Cosmos at 2:00 PM Empress Train Station. No charge. Smokies $5 each. Everyone welcome.
SATURDAY, MAY 31
• Empress & District Fine Arts, Cultural and Leisure Society Arbor Day Celebration “Plant A Tree With Us!” 12:00 - 2:30 PM. Worm Composting Workshop at 12:30. Tree Planting 2:00. Join us for lunch.
- Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture and Leisure Society Craft Monday 1:00 PM at Empress Community Hall Craft Room. Everyone is welcome and coffee
is always on!
- Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture and Leisure Society presents Snarples Thursdays 7:00 PM. No entry fee. Great opportunity to see old friends, make some new ones and learn a new card game. Empress Community Hall (314 Centre St.)
- Game Night Saturdays at 7:00 PM at the Community Hall. Come join us for a night of fun and excitement. Play games and hang out with friends and family.
OYEN
TUESDAY, MAY 13
• Crafting and Socializing at the Oyen and District Seniors Rec Center (50 plus). Come and Go or stay for the day. 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Bring your own project and a bag lunch. $20 membership for the year or $5 drop in fee. Contact Cheryl Getz 403-664-8688.
FRIDAY, MAY 30
• Fun Night for members and their guests at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre 7:00 PM to Midnight. Games and Socializing. BYOB and Snacks. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403664-2462 for more information.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
• Regular Pot Luck and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors. (50+) Please bring Salads or Dessert for Pot Luck to complete BBQ Hamburgers which will be provided. Pot Luck at 6:00 PM. Meeting at 7:00 PM. Call Lynda 403664-0908 or Beth 403-664-2462 for further information.
- Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Tuesday every month 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. - Community Choir every Wednesday at 7:00 PM in the Evangelical Missionary Church.
