The Oyen Echo - May 23, 2023

Get to know your Alberta Election candidates

BY JORDAN PARKER

Your Southwest Media Group

The candidates for the Drumheller-Stettler riding are hitting the pavement and pushing for your vote in the May 29th, 2023, provincial election.

The central-east area includes Cereal, Consort, Hanna, Oyen, Youngstown and Dinosaur Provincial Park, and The Oyen Echo interviewed three to get to know them.

The Independence Party’s candidate Shannon Packham is tired of broken promises from the Alberta government. Packham is a teacher and former athletic trainer, but the most important job to her in the world is taking care of her children and grandchildren.

“I’ve been here waiting for the legacy government to do something to save me and my family, and it wasn’t happening. I decided to become a candidate and do it myself,” she said.

Packham has travelled all over the riding, talking to constituents and hearing what priorities are. But she’s focused on mandates that have come in since COVID-19.

“When the COVID ‘narrative’ was ramping up, I wasn’t allowed to teach or into a school really because I chose bodily autonomy over forced injection,” she said.

“It was heartbreaking, and I know so many teachers and EAs who were in the same boat. From there, I started attending rallies against the mandates and government overreach, letting other Albertans know that they were not alone in the fight against the government overreach.”

Through advocacy, she’s discussed the need for separation between Alberta and the federal

government and Ottawa and has moved from working in communications with the party to becoming a candidate.

She calls the mandates around vaccines as well as teaching about gender diversity and 2SLGBTQIA+ issues in school, part of a “woke agenda.”

“It’s getting out of hand. There’s no place for that in schools,” she said.

She is against the carbon tax, and the federal government doing things at the expense of Albertans, and also believes health care is a major priority in the area that’s not being addressed.

“There aren’t enough doctors, nurses, healthcare aides, ambulance workers or paramedics. They were forced out by the vaccine, and many had to not have a job. It wasn’t just in the health sector either,” she said.

She finds the idea that the two major parties in the province just keep changing hands of leadership to be frustrating.

“It’s time for this two-party system to end. People talk about picking between the lesser of two evils when voting, but why?” she said.

“People should be able to look at the candidate, their values, and vote that way, or nothing will change. I’m giving people an option of real Conservative values without the party whip.”

The United Conservative Party’s Nate Horner is the current Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for the riding, and he hopes that continues.

“If you look at things high-level, the main concerns for Alberta are affordability and health care. In this riding, those are top priorities as well. There are issues with electricity costs, distri-

bution and transmission, and renewables,” he said.

“The two coal regeneration facilities were shut down prematurely. And rural health and the economy are big. Alberta has seen growth, but that doesn’t always reach and help the furthest corners of the province.”

There are many things he points to as high points over the past few years, including within education.

“There are many things I’m proud of, including changes I made to the education funding model. We provided support to rural schools facing declining or stagnant populations,” he said.

“We diverted money for student transportation because we recognized what rural schools are faced with as well.”

Horner launched the Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit Program, negotiated a Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, and has focused on irrigation expansion in east-central Alberta.

“We want to make sure money made from infrastructure goes outside the two major cities. We have a large potential irrigation investment, and we’re only a year away from finding out if that’s feasible in some regard,” he said.

“There’s also potential to extend the CN rail line west past Oyen. We are looking at routes now. There are just some big regional projects that could move the needle for the area.”

A big area where he sees a place for improvement and more investment is in the province’s health care system.

“We continue to invest in health care and want to grow how many nurses and doctors there are here. We have work to

do, and we need more in small towns. This is systemic across Canada, and we just keep working,” he said.

Horner also sees issues with the prices of utilities, cost of living and other things and hopes to alleviate that for constituents.

“I want to acknowledge issues, be honest, and find strategies to fix them. We want to make a tangible difference. We had affordable power for years and are facing issues from the federal government on that,” he said.

“This province can’t change direction or leadership. We want to work with the people on a new mandate and keep going.”

NDP candidate Juliet Franklin says the Drumheller-Stettler riding is vast, and she’s seen some amazing people since she moved there three years ago.

“There’s a sense of community. To see people willing to give the shirts off their backs is something I appreciate. Seeing kind, giving and nurturing behaviour is amazing, but I’m frustrated our current political representation doesn’t match our values,” she said.

“People can’t afford their bills, put food on the table, and they have trouble getting a doctor. The cost of school supplies

is large, and people are frustrated that their representation isn’t listening to their concerns. They send letters to their MLA and never hear back, and they deserve better.”

A pharmacist by day, access to quality health care is a huge thing Franklin is pushing for and would focus on if she was elected.

“People need a doctor; they don’t need to sit in the ER for eight-10-12 hours. We need to have proper staffing levels and have quality care from all types of professionals,” she said.

“The Alberta NDP is looking and planning for interdisciplinary care, and I’m really excited about that. Having access to teams of people like that would make a huge difference.”

She says Nate Horner has done a number of good things since being elected but that he’s also missed the mark in key areas.

“He increased funding for transportation for rural schools, which is amazing in a place where

we are spread so far and wide. But the curriculum in place and health care are still major issues,” she said.

“And when people reach out, they hear crickets. It’s not helpful to have the person you elected not respond. Hearing nothing back makes people feel they put trust into someone who isn’t listening.”

That, she said, is somewhere the residents of Drumheller-Stettler can rely on her to be different.

“My patients, co-workers, and anyone who knows me is aware I am a good listener. I’ve leaned into that during this campaign and heard the concerns, feedback, and what people like and dislike,” she said.

“I want people to feel heard, listened to, and to know their issues will be actioned. I can make the people here finally feel heard.”

The election is May 29th, 2023. For more information, visit https://www.elections. ab.ca/elections/albertas-next-election/.

Independence Party’s candidate Shannon Packham speaks with constituents after the All Candidates Forum at the Oyen Legion Hall last week.

| PHOTO BY KATE WINQUIST

Acadia Valley News

It’s much cooler today than it has been the past week. We had a couple of very windy days that blew in heavy smoke from the fires burning up north. I really hope we get some rain sometime soon!

I would like to wish Ralph & Marvel Jorgenson a Happy Anniversary. They celebrate 70 years at The Acadia Valley Community Hall on Saturday, May 20th.

A vendor market will be on Thursday, May 25th, at the Community Hall from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Clay Cup Mobile Bakery will be on-site offering lunch for sale, drinks, and fresh baking.

St. Mary’s Parish is planning to redo the roof at St. Peter & Paul’s Church this spring. In the future, the church will require further improvements, including new windows. If you would like to make a donation to the project, you can donate to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and in the cheque memo, write St. Peter & Paul fund. Cheques can be mailed to Box 629 Oyen, AB, T0J 2J0.

A shower is planned for Kim Mancell (Bride elect of Braeden Peers) on Saturday, June 3rd, at The Acadia Valley Community Hall from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Community Club sponsored a lunch for the W.P.S. students on Wednesday, May 17th. The students were treated to a delicious lunch provided by The Clay Cup Mobile Bakery.

Thank you to everyone who supported The W.P.S. hanging basket fundraiser this year. We sold a total of 145 hang-

ing baskets!

The W.P.S. Students will be doing a toonie drive fundraiser to raise money for the “We Bike for Brody fundraiser” in Oyen at O.P.S. on Saturday, June 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. The students will be canvassing the community to collect toonies to donate to the fundraiser.

The W.P.S. is hosting a book launch on Monday, May 29th, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the school gym. All community members are welcome to attend, and refreshments will be served.

Congratulations to the local grads who are graduating this weekend from S.C.H.S. Congrats to Avery Dillabough, Shannon Brawn, Mackenzie Cowan, Jillian Chudleigh, Jeremiah Palmer and Diedrich Dyck.

Acadia Valley Sunset Club News provided by Gwen Gustafson

Our last potluck and meeting was held on April 24th at the Senior Center, with 21 members in attendance. A

Reported by Yolanda Kuhn yakuhn@hotmail.com

much-appreciated letter from the M.D. of Acadia stated that as of May 1st, 2023, they would cover the cost of our water. We discussed getting WIFI in our building, but the motion was denied. Most members felt it wouldn’t get used enough to warrant the monthly fee.

We have all been saddened by the passing of 2 of our members. Donna Hoffman, and Freddi Skappak. Our sympathies to both families.

Our club has had a busy year. In April 2022, we were very fortunate to receive the New Horizons for Seniors Program Grant for nearly $25,000. It was for repairs and upgrades to our building. In May, we had a very generous donation from the Acadia Valley Rec Club. They donated the cabinets from the bar in the old hall for our kitchen. Our upgrades included new carpet in our card room and repairs on our whole roof – local contractor Brent Morgan installed new

longer screws, Neal Peers of Larry Peers Trucking did much-needed landscaping, and we replaced the fridge, stove, and dishwasher in our newly renovated kitchen. We purchased a new vacuum cleaner, our exit signs and emergency lights were upgraded, and new fire extinguishers were purchased to replace the original ones from 1986. We continue to have a drop-in every Wednesday afternoon. Cards and pool are played at that time. The men have been playing pool several days a week. If you are interested in joining in a pool game, contact Barry at 403 664 4488. (or stop in if you see vehicles there).

If you are interested in renting our facilities, please get in touch with Gwen at 403 664 4489.

The Rec. Club is looking for someone who would like to coach youth ball on Mondays & Wednesdays. We pay $50 per session. Contact Yolanda Kuhn if you’re interested. 1-403-6640582

Mark your calendars for July 1st as The Acadia Valley Rec. Club will be hosting their annual slow-pitch tournament. There will be a huge inflatable obstacle course for the kids, beer gardens, dance, fireworks and more. Watch Facebook and The Oyen Echo for more details. Contact Karilynn to register your team 403-664-1142

Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with this quote from Dr. Seuss. “You’re off to great places! Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So … get on your way”.

“The

Oyen Lodge Report

By Sara Heath

For the week of May 15-19, 2023

Hello everyone! The weather has warmed up; we hope to get some rain up north to help aid in those fires. This week at the lodge, we have been busy preparing our garden beds to put flowers in!

At the lodge this week, we are also preparing for our garage sale next week on May 25th, 2023! Please come on down to shop and enjoy a hot dog lunch. The residents have been keeping up with their exercises and walking, and they love to walk outside when the sun is shining and warm. Last week we celebrated Mother’s Day with a beautiful tea party with some yummy treats and great visits with family and friends. We hope everyone had a wonderful Mother’s Day! Summer is fast approaching, and we couldn’t be more excited for the hot summer days that bring many new and fun activities!!

Have a fabulous week, everyone, and a wonderful long weekend!

Pop89

Duly Noted

I have seven floor-to-ceiling bookshelves in my apartment. I try to keep them organized according to themes and subjects so that I don’t waste my day hunting for that great book on the history of snake bites or that collection of Victorian nursery rhymes.

The shelf on my left is for nonfiction - essays, biographies and true-life stories that read like fiction. Many of them I refer to more than once, others I’ve yet to crack open. The shelf next to that includes my favourite books, the ones that, if they didn’t change my life, made me think twice, three times. Among them is Stephen Kuusisto’s “Planet of the Blind.” I read the book when I was a reviewer for CBC Radio back in 1998. I told my host on air that this would be my favourite book of the year. But it’s only January, he laughed. I know, I replied. That’s how good it is. And it was.

Stephen Kuusisto is blind. As he puts it: “I see like a person who looks through a kaleidoscope; my impressions of the world at once beautiful and largely useless.” Kuusisito wouldn’t admit to his blindness until early into his adult life when he was finally able to visit the Prado in Madrid to see the famous paintings of Velasquez and Goya. But when he finally gets close to paintings, he can’t get close enough. He is “thwarted by guards and ropes.” Oh well, he says, trying to console

himself, I’ll buy a museum guide in the gift shop. I’ll read about the paintings I cannot see. “But the print is microscopic. Instead of a book, I find I’m holding a little cup full of sand.”

For a long time now, I’ve wanted to publicly acknowledge the writers whose words have moved or enlightened me, to make certain that all my influences and inspirations have been duly noted. I feel an urge to alert other readers who may have missed out on what I consider essential, if not required, reading. So, I’ve invited my friends Page and Judith to supper next week. But they have to read for their meat; they have to bring a page of some exquisite writing that moved them or stuck with them as long and as much as “Planet of the Blind” stayed with me. They assure me they’ll have no problem finding something.

Yesterday I sat down to find the page that has stuck with me all these years. Re-reading it, it hit me: my brother knows about this firsthand. Though he’s not blind, he says he still gets “the whirlies” which keep his world in constant recalibrating motion, like a gyroscope, seeking direction. He can get lost in his own woods, he says. Which saddens him, but doesn’t stop him. I ask myself, would I choose, of all the books I own, to read from this book to him. Or would it just sadden him more? I love this book for the writing itself, but the proof of a good memoir is more than that. It has to ring true. When something

rings true, we can relate; we don’t feel quite so alone, no matter how wretched the author’s circumstance.

Which brings me to my “Exploring the Territory” bookcase, the one on the right of my desk, within reaching distance. These are my teachers, helping me approach my own writing about this territory at the turn of the 19th century with courage, truth and honesty. This is the vault of gold that I read and consult to “keep it real,” “get the facts straight,” and “stay current.” To honour the power of true stories.

There’s been a lot of great writing about the prairie, some by people who’ve lived here all their lives. Some by settlers who came, then left. Some by travellers, who would never dream of staying, but who long to commune with “the salt of the earth” for a while. ( It never occurs to them that painting all country folk as decent is as prejudiced as painting all city folk as corrupt.) And some are by indigenous authors. They range from angered to bemused. Most are poets stepping forward with knowledge, spirit and body memory beyond my comprehension. But bring it on, I say. Because I want to know, I need to know, and there is no other way to tell the story of this place than through the people native to it.

Every day I dip into the treasure chest that is this shelf. Among the gems are the classics: “Many Tender Ties,” by Sylvia Van Kirk, about indigenous women as integral to the fur trade society. Pre-mis-

sionary prairie fur traders and indigenous women often formed liaisons that served as marriages, as far as the two parties were concerned. When women from Europe and the Church moved in, their bonds were considered illicit.

Shelved beside “Tender Ties” is the contemporary classic: “The Northwest is Our Mother” by Jean Teillet. It’s a thorough look at the Metis Nation, the country’s new nation who served as interpreters, mediators, guides and scouts for newcomers and yet have been reviled as thieves and vagrants. The mothers of the Metis nation are the women in Van Kirk’s book. They also appear in another important book: “Buffalo Days and Nights,” the diary of the Metis interpreter Peter Erasmus. Erasmus was also a trader, a buffalo hunter and mission worker. These three books challenge assumptions about the ancestry and allegiances energizing this territory.

I’ve just scratched the surface of the thousands upon thousands of pages I’ve read and have yet to read. Because to write historical fiction that rings true, you have to read a lot of nonfiction. In the end, I will have to trust my muse and imagination, then write from the heart. But in the meanwhile, I bow to all the books on my shelves and to the authors who poured their body and souls into them: duly noted.

A grandparent handed her grandson a book and explained, “It’s called reading. It’s how people install new software into their brain.”

Reading hard-copy books has become much more uncommon compared to spending time looking at a screen. I listened to a psychologist explain how screen time affects children and young adults.

In a recent interview, Dr. Phil McGraw of television fame said, “Parents need to understand they’re not raising children; they’re raising adults. When you look at your 5-year-old, everything your child will ever need, they are becoming.”

Allie Beth Stuckey interviewed psycholo-

gist Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, who has written two books about social media and mental wellness. He specializes in digital media and how it impacts mental health. “I keep emphasizing to parents: delay, delay, delay. Delay exposure to devices,” he stressed and went on to explain why.

Dr. Kardaras said the prefrontal cortex of a young person gets compromised developmentally the more they’re on a screen, and it actually begins to shrink in the same way as it would in someone with a chronic substance addiction.

The prefrontal cortex, behind the forehead, is where dense grey matter (DGM) is located. It’s where our critical think-

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How does screen time affect kids?

ing and decision-making originate, allowing us to foresee the consequences of our actions. The prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until age 25.

Dr. Kardaras said screen time not only shrinks DGM but also attacks the Myelin sheath, allowing our brains to communicate and function. He has first-hand knowledge of the longterm impact as he treats individuals 17 years and older who have tech addiction and social media issues.

“We’re seeing people who can only see things in black and white and have a hard time discerning things. They’re emotional, reactive, nuclear bombs who need safe spaces,” he said. “There’s this fragility in young people; it’s socially media-driven fragility.”

He compared the effect of television on children to digital screen time. From ages 2-6, the brain is developing the ability to focus and pay attention. He said research from the 1990s showed for every three hours of television, a

child would have a 30% chance of having Attention Deficit / Hyperactivitiy Disorder (ADHD). That percentage increases exponentially with the use of digital screens.

“As a researcher working with young people, it’s (ADHD) is happening more; we’re not just diagnosing it more,” he observed. “Kids are overstimulated and always need stimulation.”

As a psychologist, he sees firsthand the longterm consequences of toddler to adult screen time. He said the result is blurred kids who can’t function and spew venom instead of engaging in rational discourse.

“We’ve created addicted people who can’t manage without their devices,” he said. Because younger people don’t have a core sense of identity, they are more vulnerable to the brainwashing that takes place on social media, he noted.

The concept of social contagion is not new. It’s defined as behaviour that spreads via social means; smoking is an example of social contagion. How-

ever, the impact of social media influencers with millions of followers is far more extensive than face-to-face social pressures we experienced in the past.

Decades ago, social media promised to be an amazing tool used to connect people. However, that connection proved to be a counterfeit, robbing people of face-to-face interaction, causing people to become isolated while staring at their screens.

“We’re seeing kids who can’t leave the house,” he observed.

Unfortunately, algorithms send content that essentially attacks the vulnerabilities of adolescents, such as body image issues. As a result, Dr. Kardaras said they’re seeing huge spikes in anxiety, depression, personality disorders and gender dysphoria.

“Gender dysphoria is real but is extremely rare,” he said. “Now we’re seeing a 4000 percent spike in late-onset gender dysphoria female to male. There’s no explanation other than social media.”

Dr. Kardaras described part of the process used to treat people who come to him with gender dysphoria diagnoses. “We have two months with no phones, no media. By the end of two months, it has gone away. If you have the real thing, it doesn’t get cured in 2 months.”

Considering everything he’s shared, the doctor’s advice to “delay, delay, delay” seems to make sense. He continued to explain that not only is a child’s prefrontal cortex developing, but also their sense of identity.

“Your kids will get a little more immunized the older they get as their sense of identity develops,” he assured. “We (adults) are still susceptible, but less so than children.”

It serves as a reminder to all of us to set aside our devices and enjoy face-to-face interaction. There’s no threat of addiction involved with community interaction, and it strengthens our sense of identity and mental well-being.

Kerrobert

TOWN WIDE

GARAGE SALE

Sat., May 27 9:00 AM

Free maps available at the Seniors Hall at 9 AM

To register your property for free on the map contact the Town Office at 306-834-2361

NEW THIS YEAR!

Rent a Table at the Seniors Hall for $15 to sell your items!

BBQ - 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM at the Seniors Hall - 541 Atlantic Ave.

CRUSHED ASPHALT FOR SALE

Perfect for driveways, parking lots, yards, bin pads and more!

The Town of Kerrobert has crushed asphalt for sale. The product has been crushed in two sizes: 1 1/2” or 3/4”. Price: $30/yard. Loader and operator on site to load trucks on purchase. Delivery in town available at $175/hr. - delivered by loader. For More Information Contact Chad Tetzlaff 306-834-8025 or Brad Murphy 306-494-7532

FOR SALE BY TENDER

The R.M. of Grandview No. 349 will accept written tenders for the sale of a 2015 3815 Bush Hog mower until 4:30 p.m., June 5, 2023.

Highest or any tender not necessarily accepted.

Sealed tenders marked “Mower Tender” on the outside will be accepted in person or by mail to Box 39, Kelfield, SK S0K 2C0. Call 306-948-9778

OUTDOOR GUN RANGE IS CLOSED

Due to insurance issues the range will remain closed. Please stay out. It is trespassing if you go out there and you could be charged. We are working with a group to get this issue resolved. Are you wanting to help get it going again? Call the Kerrobert Town Office 306-834-2361

Sustainable Fertilizer brings Regenerative Agriculture into the Mainstream

BY NEIL WIENS

Whether we like it or not, agriculture must change to meet today’s challenges. I say this as someone who grew up on the farm near Watrous, Saskatchewan, and who loves farming, partly because I love the independence. I don’t like being told what to do. But I’m also prepared to change when I can see which way the world is going. If you don’t adapt with the times, you don’t survive, and countries around the world are changing their farming practices to improve soil health, meet ever higher consumer standards, and to address the challenge of climate change.

We might not agree with how government approaches these challenges but it’s also unwise to pretend that these trends aren’t real. It’s even harder to ignore what our soil tells us. And it’s pretty much impossible to ignore whether our profit and loss statements are printed in black ink or red. So, do we fight global trends, or do we see them as opportunities? The answer is clear. We do what farmers have always done, we meet change head on and become more successful than ever.

As a biochemist and nutritionist, I’ve been concerned about the amount of salt that synthetic fertilizers leave in the soil. Too much salt kills the microbes that make up healthy topsoil, the beating heart of a productive farm, and we’ve been pouring synthetic fertilizer and salt onto our fields for decades. Over time it crushes yields. My team and I set out to find solutions and we found one. What we didn’t realize at the time is that our solution to improving soil health would also tackle another of the biggest problems now facing farmers, climate change.

If you farm, you know that GHG emissions from agriculture are under scrutiny from Ottawa and almost every national government in the world. Agriculture feeds the planet but in producing food, farm operations emit greenhouse gases, roughly 25% of all worldwide emissions. Half of the emissions from agriculture come from the use of synthetic fertilizer. Meanwhile, farmers themselves are among the hardest hit by climate change. The Government of Canada’s solution is to propose a 30% reduction in emissions from nitrous oxide, most of which comes from the application of synthetic fertilizers. Our solution is better in every way, a regenerative mineral based fertilizer that maintains or improves yield, without the heavy salt load and without the nitrous oxide that is a major by-product of synthetic fertilizer.

Our approach uses recycled organic matter, and elemental mineral sources. The result is a fertilizer that restores the nutrient balance of the soil, meaning higher yields, reduced input costs, and bigger profits. Soil health is restored, while also addressing a problem that can no longer be ignored.

Every year Canadians waste approximately 2.3 million tonnes of food worth more than $20 billion. This food rots in our landfills,

emitting harmful methane into the atmosphere, compounding climate change. Our manufacturing process turns this waste into healthier soil and reduced emissions. By diverting this waste food from landfills, we turn waste into economic opportunity. Because we manufacture in facilities close to end users, we bring jobs to rural communities, and our approach avoids or reduces about 200,000 CO2e tonnes annually, the total annual CO2 emitted by a community of 15,000 people. These numbers will only improve as more and more farmers fully embrace this new technology.

Change can be painful, but we also know that government and public demand for solutions to climate change will only grow louder. It’s better if farmers and entrepreneurs address those challenges before governments impose solutions. We think we’ve made a good start at doing just that.

Neil Wiens is an agriculture scientist and the founder of Replenish Nutrients, an Alberta-based, publicly traded, regenerative fertilizer manufacturing company trading under the symbol ERTH on the Canadian Securities Exchange. For more information, visit our website https://replenishnutrients.com

An oasis of beauty in the prairies

BY JOAN JANZEN

Your Southwest Media Group

The Victoria Day long weekend officially marked the beginning of camping season on the prairies. A picturesque camping retreat nestled in the river hills by the South Saskatchewan River, is Sandy Point campground. Located between Hilda and Oyen along Highway 41, the campground is part of Cypress County. When you see a bright green bridge, you will know you have arrived. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Sandy Point is the camping site for you! It may not have power and access to conveniences, but it offers great fishing and its landscape is an oasis of beauty amidst a lonely stretch of pasture and prairie.

At the river’s edge I talked to a fisherman who had caught an eight-pound Walleye within a half hour. However his girlfriend convinced him to throw it back and let someone else enjoy catching it.

The hills and rock formations across the highway are an invitation to take a hike up to the top and view the scene below. Along the ascent, you’ll see beautiful wildflowers and the occasional fossil fragment. But watch your step; there are cactus and on one occasion I’ve encountered a rattle snake.

There’s a playground for the kids when they get restless, and a rough boat launch for fishermen wanting to get out on the river. And, on a hot day, the river water looks very inviting for some, but not so inviting for others.

On my last visit, a couple was trying to convince their dog to take his first dip in the river. They dragged him into the water, while he placed his big paws on their shoulder, begging to be rescued.

If you’re looking for a quiet and picturesque weekend get-away, Sandy Point will not disappoint you. It’s an oasis of beauty located right in our neighbourhood.

Stop kochia from setting seed

By Shawn Senko

Kochia that survived preseed burnoff needs to be taken out before it drops seed later in the season. The big weeds can produce at least 15,000 seeds per plant – often many more – so letting them set seed and then spreading that seed with the combine can move a herbicide-resistant population across a field very quickly.

Kochia with resistance to both Group 2 and Group 9 herbicides is found all across the Prairies in big numbers. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada weed scientists have also confirmed kochia populations with resistance to Group 4 and Group 14 herbicides.

The best practice is to control small kochia plants in the pre-seed window with a tank mix of effective herbicides. If kochia is still alive after crop emergence, growers have fewer options in canola fields.

The only in-crop herbicide option that works on Group-2 and Group-9 resistant kochia is an early application of Liberty on Liberty Link canola cultivars. Group-10 glufosinate in Liberty will control all resistant kochia populations as long as plants are not too large to kill

at the time of spraying.

Roundup Ready, TruFlex and Clearfield systems based on Group-9 and Group-2 weed control are no longer effective on most kochia across the Prairies.

In all cases, scout after spraying. If kochia plants survived pre-seed burnoff and the first in-crop spray, use these other measures to stop them.

Physically remove kochia plants. Options include mowing areas where kochia is the dominant species and crop yield expectations are low. Hand weeding could be worthwhile in areas where individual resistant (or likely resistant) plants are present.

Use combine seed destroyers. Combine weed seed destroyers, the mechanical hammer mills that pulverize all seeds in the chaff, can effectively destroy at least 90 per cent of kochia seeds – as long as harvest is not delayed to the point where major seed drop has begun.

Apply Edge in the fall. This won’t stop seed set this year, but could be part of the solution in fields with a lot of resistant kochia. Group-3 ethalfluralin (Edge) applied in the fall on

fields planned for canola the following year can help manage kochia resistant to glyphosate and other herbicides.

Canola growers with herbicide-resistant kochia may want to look at other long-term management strategies. They could seed kochia-infested areas to salt-tolerant perennial forage rather than continue to throw inputs at acres with no hope of profitability. They could diversify the crop rotation with early- and late-seeded crops, including winter cereals and forages that provide early season competition. If poor drainage is at the root of salinity problems, localized tile drainage may remediate low productivity areas where kochia tends to thrive. Farms that prefer Roundup Ready or TruFlex canola may want to consider cultivars with stacked systems – TruFlex and Liberty Link –to give them flexibility to manage herbicide-resistant kochia. For more on this topic, please read “How to contain herbicide-resistant kochia” and “Integrated weed management: Best practices” in the Weeds section at canolawatch.org/fundamentals.

The river hills and their rock formations offer a picturesque landscape at Sandy Point campground.

When you see the big green bridge, you will know you have arrived at Sandy Point campground.

Shawn Senko is an agronomy specialist with the Canola Council of Canada. Email senkos@canolacouncil.org.

Kochia Seedlings. | PHOTOS BY CLINT JURKE

Report from Battle River-Crowfoot MP

Damien Kurek

4945 - 50 St. Camrose, AB T4V 1P9

Voting Matters

Federal Liberals and their coalition partners in the NDP, it is the distinct levels of Government that ensure the very idea of why Canada works. And it is because I care about our federation that I am choosing to vote for my local United Conserva-

Alberta is able to stand up for itself is especially important when we have a Government in Ottawa like the Liberals that do not.

A large refund means you’ve been overpaying your taxes throughout the year. I can show you steps to minimize income taxes and keep more of what you earn.

STEVEN PAETZ CFP,B.Mgt. Associate Consultant steven.paetz@investorsgroup.com (403) 664-9494 A tax refund is

STEVEN PAETZ CFP, B.MGT. Associate Consultant steven.paetz@igpwm.ca 403-664-9494 CRAIG PAETZ CFP,B.Comm., Executive Financial Consultant craig.paetz@investorsgroup.com (403) 664-8311

i 1 0 a m - 5 p m CRAIG PAETZ CFP, B.COMM, Executive Financial Consultant craig.paetz@igpwm.ca 403-664-8311 “Having investments” isn’t the same thing as financial planning. We believe a real financial plan adapts and grows alongside your life - and includes investments, tax opportunities, estate and legacy planning, and more. Do you agree? Let’s talk.

1 0 1 - 1 s t A v e W , O y e n M o n - F

Alberta is an incredible province. The contributions from Alberta from all backgrounds have enabled Alberta to become the province we are today… from traditional energy to new tech, agricultural innovation to tourism. When I am asked by folks across the country why Alberta stands out, I share that it is because we are a province that takes risks and when we see an opportunity, we move forward… we know how to get the job done. It is this perspective that built the Alberta Advantage.

Free enterprise and conservative ideals have helped Albertans build the foundation that has allowed us to build one of the most prosperous jurisdictions in the world. We have been blessed with abundant natural resources but that alone does not bring about prosperity, it’s our people that continue to show what’s possible. It’s the outworking of those ideals that needs to ensure that our provincial government is a catalyst for economic growth, shows fiscal responsibility, invests in services Albertans need, and ensures that our province stands up for itself. And ensuring that the Province of

The New Democratic Party in Alberta does not reflect the principles that have enabled and secured Alberta’s successes. The way the provincial NDP are officially connected and subject to the will of the federal NDP is disturbing, a fact that is outlined in the Federal NDP’s constitution, and the antithesis of free enterprise. And the fact that the NDP has partnered with Justin Trudeau and the Liberals, and has launched bizarre attacks on Albertan energy, subscribes to an ideology that attacks farmers and ranchers, and is adamant on a centralized big bureaucracy-focused policy agenda.

Alberta was held back by the NDP, and despite challenges over the last 4 years, Alberta is moving in the right direction once again. And as your federal representative, I can tell you that we need

a strong provincial Government that will stand up for our province’s interests. So, on May 29th, I will be voting for my local United Conservative Party candidate. Then as you have heard me talk so much about, I will continue to ensure that I stand up for my constituents and work to replace the Liberals in Ottawa so that we have a government on both levels that works to ensure that Alberta and Canada can reach their full potential.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780608-4600, text 403-5755625, 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 need of assistance regarding a Federal Government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to MP Kurek’s office.

AIDAN MAXWELL

My name is Aidan Leigh Maxwell, and my parents are Wayde and Angela Maxwell. I began preschool and kindergarten at Central School in Brooks, then moved to Eastbrook Elementary for grades two to six. I spent three years at Brooks Junior High School before going to Brooks Composite High School, and then transferring to South Central for grade 12. I transferred schools to be a Badger and compete for the Badlands Academy as a pitcher and outfielder. I play volleyball and basketball in the off-season. Besides team sports, I enjoy being outdoors, whether it is hiking, snowboarding, or mountain climbing. I also enjoy traveling and being able to see and experience new things. I hope to travel a lot in the future. My favorite school memory was my first day at South Central when I met all my new teammates for the first time. This is because I knew I would be good friends with all of these new guys before long. I am still determining where, but I plan to get my Bachelor of Science in Chemis-

try while playing baseball at the collegiate level. One thing I have learned from my year at South Central is that everything feels sweeter when it is earned, not given.

ASHLEY ROLHEISER

I am the fourth of five kids of Dale and Tricia Rolheiser and might I add the only daughter. I attended elementary school at ARC and switched to OPS for my junior high years. But those seemed to be cut short with the decision to move grade 9’s to the high school. In my freshman year, I rediscovered my passion for Volleyball and continued with that till the end of grade 11. As a spring and summer sport, I played for Oyens Softball team in grade 10 and then the Consort Cubs last spring. Due to COVID, most of my high school years were not what most would call “regular”. The majority of my grade 9 and 10 years were done through online schooling as well as part of my grade 11. So for future classes, my words of advice would be to make memories, I know school seems like a drag, but live it up. Because, in a few

years, you’ll be wishing you had more time with your friends. As for my life beyond high school, I am attending Lethbridge University’s business program in hopes of getting my degree and starting up my own little shop. And hopefully staying in touch with the people who made all of this possible.

BELLA KOVITCH

I am the oldest daughter born to Shaune Kovitch and Amanda Yake-Kovitch. Although I may have been a bit of a surprise, I have blessed my mom and dad with my presence. I believe my parents realize that out of their three children, myself, my brother Liam (or as I call him Hammy), and sister Scarlett, I am most definitely the easiest one to raise; I didn’t and still am don’t push back. My mother says, I always listened the first time I was told something, but my parents and I both know it’s really because I end up crying when I argue, so arguments never worked out for me. I started my education at Oyen Public School, eventually moving to South Central in grade 9. I’ve

stayed busy throughout the years with various sports, my favorites being dance and softball. I plan to start my secondary education at the University of Alberta for a degree in psychology, hoping to end up in sports psychology, where I can combine my love of sports, the brain, and being able to assist others. I have a deep love for cats, and I am most looking forward to one day having a home of my own where I can foster kittens. If sports psychology doesn’t work out, plan B, a Skip Driver while being a crazy cat lady, sounds pretty good to me.

CONNER MACLEAN

My name is Conner Lawrence MacLean. I was born to Troy and Sherry MacLean on July 29, 2005. I have an older sister Kaitlyn, and we have a dog named Sadie. I began schooling at Oyen Public in 2010 and then moved to South Central in 2019. During my school years, I gathered a couple of nicknames like; McDavid and Conman. My favorite saying I’m probably most known for is “Yep!” and my favorite school memory is chopping laps at

lunch. My interests, hobbies, and talents include mechanics, carpentry, hockey, hunting, camping, water sports, and sledding. I played hockey from initiation until Bantam because there was no midget team in town. Due to not having a midget team, my hockey days ended after an extra year of Bantam. I am using my interest in mechanics to work on my two trucks and my sled.

I plan to further my education at Medicine Hat College to become a mechanic. I have been in the RAP program gaining hours toward my mechanic career since Gr. 11, and I plan to continue working at Fountain Tire in Oyen for my apprenticeship. I am planning to join the Oyen Fire Department as well.

CONNOR CHOO-FOO

My name is Connor Choo-Foo and I am the youngest of three in my family. My parents are Liam and Val, and my sisters are Brooklyn and Kennedy. I was in French immersion from grades 1-8 in Swift Current and then moved into English when I went to high school at

the Swift Current Comprehensive. I enjoy watching and playing sports, playing high school volleyball, basketball, and baseball on the Badgers. I also enjoy cooking and learning new things. Some of my best memories this year have come from sports trips and hanging out with my teammates. I plan to go to school and take business while playing baseball or volleyball and find a college that is as accepting as Oyen has been to me!

DIEDRICH DYCK

Hi my name is Diedrich Knelsen Dyck but most people call me DD, and triple D. I grew up in the small town of Empress with my parents Aganetha and Peter. I am the second youngest of 5. I went to Warren Peers School from kindergarten to grade nine and played some sports like Basketball and badminton. In my free time I like to hunt, play video games and help my family on the family farm. Now that I’m about to finish high school I am working on getting my drone pilots license so I can get a job.

Aidan Maxwell Ashley Rolheiser

Bella Kovitch Conner MacLean

Connor Choo-Foo Diedrich Dyck

EMILY MOROZOFF

My name is Emily Marie Morozoff and my parents are Rob and Laura Morozoff. People often call me Em, but I prefer Emm because my initials are E.M.M. I went to elementary in Port Hardy and Salmon Arm BC, junior high at OPS, and then high school at SCHS. I am talented in all academic subjects, but especially in Math and English. I am an avid reader and often find books with different cultural influences the most interesting. However, nothing beats a good fantasy! I play the guitar and listen to almost every genre of music. Badminton is my favorite sport and the one I do best in. I don’t have a favorite school memory because I try to live without. My favorite saying is the Chinese idiom “The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.” The idiom shows the importance of, not only self goals, but the goals of others and the value of worldly awareness. Next fall I am going to the University of Calgary for Computer Science and will be working towards a better future.

GABRIAL LOGAN

I am Gabrial Logan. More commonly known as Gabe. I was raised on a farm west of Oyen. My parents are Jerry and Marcy Logan. In my younger years I

Congratulations

was constantly curious about how to farm from watching cows being sorted helping get the tractors ready for the field. I never really found interest in socializing with my classmates growing up in my first nine grades of school in the Oyen public School. When I moved over to South Central High School I was running tractors and knew the peace in the silence or operating a John Deere. In my spare time I like playing cards, watching TV, “huntin’ gophers”, and curling.

GIAN SALVANERA

My name is Gian and I grew up with my two older brothers and the person who raised me up to the person I am today; my Grandmother, who has been beside me all the time. My Mom had to leave her home country so she could make my life and my brother’s life easier. At the age of 16, one of my brothers and I left the Philippines to be with our mom in Canada. At South Central, I continued my studies and will keep working to achieve my dream to be a Graphic Designer.

HANNAH WAGSTAFF

I’m Hannah Ashley Wagstaff and I grew up on a ranch northwest of Oyen, with my parents, Quinn and Jamie, as well as my younger

sisters Haylee and Olivia. I began my schooling in New Brigden, and throughout middle school I moved to Oyen to complete the rest of my years of school. My family owns around 300 cows and we also operate a grain farm. I have participated in 4H, school and club volleyball, as well as high school rodeo throughout the last few years. I played club volleyball for a couple of years. I started in Delia and then continued in Consort on the Kraken team. I also played school volleyball up until grade 12. I enjoy riding my horses, whether it’s gathering cows or rodeoing, and I am also passionate about showing cattle. I started 4H when I was 9 and recently just moved on to showing my purebred herd. This past year I have started to raise purebred black angus cows with my sister Olivia. With my passion for animals I decided to continue into post secondary with studying animals. My future plans are to attend the University of Saskatchewan, and take a bachelor of science in animal bioscience. My goal is to then further my education into veterinary medicine.

JEREMIAH PALMER

Hi my name is Jeremiah Aiden Palmer some people call me Miah and Jerry, I am the second youngest of four. I live in Acadia

Valley with my Parents Jason and Tammy, and my Sister Jasmine. I went to school at Hazlet School in Saskatchewan from K-Three and then moved to Acadia Valley from grade four to nine and came to Oyen for grade ten to twelve. My plans for when I’m older is to go to culinary school and then work as chef in some sort of restaurant. Whenever I have spare time I like to play video games. I love to cook dinner for my family. I also went into skills Canada two times. I really like to play volleyball and badminton. I played those sports for seven years, grades four to ten.

JILLIAN CHUDLEIGH

I am Jillian Chudleigh, or as many of my friends and family call me Jill; daughter of Kristy Chudleigh and the Late Stewart Chudleigh. I have an older sister, Elizabeth, though many people think we are twins, and we know my dad will always be watching over his three girls. 4 years ago my mom was lucky enough to meet Dj, who has 3 boys that I consider brothers, and who are now a big part of my life. I grew up on a farm around Bindloss, where I get to spend time with my German Shepard, Gunner and my two pugs. I also have lots of fish and one frog, which I pride myself on keeping alive because as many know, my

fish don’t tend to stay alive for more than a couple weeks. Though I do love living on my farm I have always had a long drive to school and extracurricular activities, such as dance or volleyball. I went to school at Warren Peers from k-9 and then South Central for grades 10-12. I have danced at Wilson School of Dance for 14 years. It has always been a big part of my life and something I am passionate about. I have also enjoyed playing volleyball throughout my schooling, because I love the game and spending time with my teammates. In my spare time I enjoy cooking/ baking and spending time with family or friends. In the fall I plan to take a Bachelor of Nursing at Medicine Hat College. I am very excited to start this new journey and see where the rest of my life takes me.

KEIFER ANDERSON

I’m Keifer Anderson. My parents are Jody and Aaron, I have 2 younger brothers Koen and Bennet. I have attended school in Oyen all my life beginning in kindergarten at age 5 in kindergarten at Oyen Public School in 2010. In 2019 at age 14 I began my highschool career in grade 9 and also when I got my nickname chief keif, don’t know who started it but that’s the one that stuck.

Emily Morozoff Gabrial Logan

Hanna Wagstaff

Jeremiah Palmer

Miguel de Jesus Olivia Mundt

Paige Siegel

Presley Bouvier Ryleigh Volk

Gian Salvanera

In grade 10 I joined the Badlands Baseball Academy. I’ve made many memories and many friends from the past couple of years. My favorite saying is when someone is complaining I usually say. “You know what I heard helps, if you cry about it”. I know it’s not a very nice thing to say but it usually changes the person’s mood pretty fast. My future plan is to go get my ticket for welding.

KIARA LAUGHLIN

Hi, I’m Kiara Anne Marie Laughlin, daughter of Shelly Laughlin, sister to Levi, Madison, and Cooper, and I prefer to go by the name Ki. I grew up in Youngstown and attended school there until grade 9. Then my journey led me to Oyen. I love all sports, but my passion is dance, specifically acro. I have danced for many years and hope to continue to dance after highschool. My favorite school sports are track and field, badminton, and volleyball. I’m a very competitive person which pushes me to work harder. My favorite school memory will be remembering all the great people I met since I came to Oyen. My future plans are to go to post secondary or take a year off and travel and dance.

LEE ROBERTSON

My name is Lee Robertson; people sometimes call me Leeroy. I grew up in Queens County, Nova Scotia with my Mom, Dad, and older brother while attending three different schools in Liverpool Nova Scotia. I first attended Dr. JC Wickwire academy before going to South Queens middle School, and then finally Liverpool Regional High School. This was all before I was lucky enough to get the chance to attend Badlands Baseball Academy for my grade 12 year and pursue my dream of playing college baseball. I’ve always loved sports and knew I wanted to play sports at the college level. I would practice and play all kinds of sports after school with my brother for as long as I can remember. My favorite memory from high school is probably just playing golf with my brother and my golf coach at my home course. Obviously this all wouldn’t have been possible without the support of my parents and my grandmother; they have always allowed me to pursue what inspired me and supported me along the way. My older brother has also played a big role in the development of my competitive nature and passion for sports, and without that I wouldn’t be where I am today. I have not yet decided where I will go to school

this fall but I’m sure wherever I go it will lead to something great!

MACKENZIE COWAN

My Name is MacKenzie Raina Cowan, I am the oldest daughter of Marie and Scott Cowan; I have a younger sister, Marissa and a younger brother, Colton. I started kindergarten and finished Grade 6 at Oyen Public School. My family and I moved to Acadia Valley where I completed grades 7-9 at Warren Peers, then I finished grades 10-12 at South Central High School. I enjoy reading, painting, and I am in the sewing club at school. I figure skated in the Oyen Figure Skating Club for 9 years, and did gymnastics with the Cactus Gymnastics club for 5 years. Next year I plan on going to S.A.I.T in Calgary to take television broadcasting. In the future, I plan to see the world and definitely move to a warmer place.

MIGUEL

DE JESUS

My name is Jose Miguel de Jesus, also known as Miggy. My parents are Jenelle and Jose Luis de Jesus. I started school at a small rural French elementary school called Ecole Jean Marie Gay in my hometown of Saulnierville, Nova Scotia. I continued my studies at Ecole Secondaire de Clare high school until I was fortunate to get

the opportunity to attend Badlands Baseball Academy at SCHS in Oyen, Alberta for my grade 12 year to pursue my dream of playing college baseball. My experience here at Badlands has been nothing but amazing. In no time, I met wonderful coaches, teachers, schoolmates and made great friends for which I am thankful.

Growing up, I was always involved in sports. I spent many hours practicing, traveling, and playing my two main sports; hockey, and baseball. I have made great memories whether it was on the ice or on the field. One memory I will always cherish is beating our rivals during the high school hockey playoffs 2021-22 season. Within those memories, I also must mention the people that were there to support my passion for sports; my family. At every practice and game, I could always count on having my biggest fans, my mom and grandfather, cheering me on. In the fall, I am accepted to attend Judson University in Elgin, Illinois in the Education program where I will continue playing baseball as an Eagle.

OLIVIA MUNDT

Hello, my name is Olivia Mundt. I am the youngest of three daughters of Richard and Shannon Mundt. I was raised on a farm

Northeast of Sibbald, Alberta and thus my schooling has been completed in the public schools in Oyen. If I really have to choose my favorite school memories, I would say that all of physics 30, every debate our class has ever had, and my beloved spare class with my friends outshine the rest of my highschool experience. When I am not in school I can typically be found partaking in one of my many extracurriculars. I am a member of the student council, I am a dancer, a volleyball player, swimming instructor, a 4H member, a drama club actor, and also an avid reader. Because of my long standing love of reading I one day hope to write my own book. In the future I also hope to one day visit Germany, as this is where my family comes from, and after my planned gap year I want to go to university and create a career for myself. But for now I am just Libby. My friends will receive many more “woah there!’’s and lots of odd looks. I will be enjoying my time with friends and family. Life is meant to be enjoyed, and this is what I consider my true goal for the present and the future. This is also what I wish for all of you! I am very happy to be celebrating Graduation with my class and all of our loved ones and communities.

Jillian Chudleigh Keifer Anderson

Kiara Laughlin

Lee Robertson MacKenzie Cowan

Shannon Brawn Shayelle Robertson Zhaira Leizen Lei Mabbayad

Cameron Langille Avery Dillabough

PAIGE SIEGEL

I am Paige Amelia Siegel, daughter to Jarvis and Michelle Siegel. I have a brother Rylan, and three amazing dogs, Ruby, Pearl, and Saydee. Let’s just say my camera roll consists mainly of dog photos. I grew up on our family farm until I was in grade 3, and I attended Oyen Public School until we moved to Salmon Arm, BC for 5 years. We then came back to our farm, and I finished grade 8 at OPS. Since grade 9, I have been at South Central High School. I started figure skating at age 3, and I have done many carnivals and competitions since. Nothing beats the feeling of gliding on ice and spinning so fast you can’t see for a solid 5 seconds after. In addition to skating, I enjoy wakeboarding, flying in my dad’s plane, reading, and spending time with friends and family. I love being outside and I am always up for hiking, boating, or quad riding. One day, I hope to get my recreational pilot’s license and spend time traveling. In the fall, I plan on going to Medicine Hat College to become a Speech Pathologist Assistant. From there, I hope to attain a bachelor’s degree in Community Rehabilitation, and eventually a masters in Speech Language Pathology.

PRESLEY BOUVIER

My name is Presley Lauryn Bouvier. My parents are Kathy Bouvier and Joël Bouvier. I have an older sister, Jaida, and a younger sister, Emerson. I went to Oyen Public School from Kindergarten to Grade 8 and then South Central High School from Grade 9 to Grade 12. I enjoy golfing in the summer and curling in the winter. I also figure skated from Kindergarten to Grade 7. Throughout highschool I did sewing/scrapbooking club too. After I graduate, in the fall I will be attending the Animal Health Technology program at Lakeland College in Vermillion. Once I complete this program I hope to pursue my career as a Veterinary Technologist.

RYLEIGH VOLK

Hi, my name is Ryleigh Daniell Volk and I am the youngest of two children to Darcy and Michelle Volk. I’m also known by friends and family as Ry, Ry-dog, Red Truck and chipmunk, some nicknames better than

others. My educational journey started with Assumption RC School from Pre-Kindergarten to grade 6. I then transitioned to grades 7 and 8 at Oyen Public School and later grades 9 through 12 at South Central High School. Once I could walk you could always find me toting along with my Dad, especially to the farm where my mother would say I picked up my sarcastic attitude. When I couldn’t be found in tow with my Dad, you were sure to find me dancing around the room and later around the dance studio at Wilson School of Dance. I also developed a passion for the volleyball court and the competitive spirit that came along with it. I will forever cherish the hotel giggles with friends and the road trips with my biggest cheerleader, Mom. You can always be sure to find me hanging with my friends, creating a lifetime of memories, lending a helping hand to my big brother Kennen, or showering my pup Kayci with love. I am looking forward to continuing my education following graduation at the University of Lethbridge pursuing a career as an Occupational Therapist. Love my small town roots, but ready to see what adventures lie ahead.

SHANNON BRAWN

Hi my name is Shannon Cody Brawn. I’m the oldest of 4 and a daughter to Cody Colbe and Cody Colbe. I’ve lived on a farm most of my life and have accomplished a lot. I’ve danced for 12 years and have done many sports within my life including basketball, volleyball and curling for a few years. I’ve won silver and gold for a volleyball team and several medals and ribbons for dance. I volunteer my time anytime when it is needed. I love volunteering for places that need the extra help in the community. I was on the honor roll for 4 years from grade 6 till 9. I plan on becoming a teacher and going to Medicine Hat College or Red Deer Polytechnic. I want to travel lots in my lifetime to see many different places and learn about different cultures. I do many school activities including being in the drama club, food class and volunteering anytime they need.

SHAYELLE ROBERTSON

My name is Shayelle Kelly-Ann Robertson, and I am the oldest daughter of Ryan and Jill Robertson with my 4 younger siblings. I attended OPS until grade 4 where I then went to ARC and later SCHS for highschool. I live on a farm North East of the bumping, thriving town of Sibbald. When I’m not in school I’m usually dedicating 6 months of the year to playing hockey. I started playing hockey with the Oyen Bees until my second year peewee where I later moved to play with the 3 C’s Coyotes for 6 years. I have been fortunate enough to be able to play for the Calgary Herricanes as well and meet so many new people and coaches who have helped me along the way. Some of my hobbies include reading, going to the lake, golfing, spending too much time in Coronation, and yelling at gremlin children not to run on the pool deck. I hope to continue my education at Lakeland College to become a registered Vet Technician as well as continue my athletic career in the AJFHL for the Sherwood Park Steele.

ZHAIRA LEIZEN LEI MABBAYAD

Mabuhay! My name is Zhaira Leizen Lei Balauag Mabbayad and I am originally from the Philippines. My parents are Jona Joy Rita Balauag/Jojo Carabbacan and Donato Frederic Mabbayad/Reynalyn Manayan. I started kindergarten in FEUMS and ICLSE; then went to EWCS in elementary(G1-G6) and from G7 to half of Grade 8 in UHS. I came to Canada in 2018 and studied at OPS for the rest of my Grade 8 and then SCHS until grade 12. My favorite subject is Mathematics. I love all Arts; drawings, dancing, singing, and anything associated with music. My talents are that I can sing, draw, play some instruments, and dance. My hobbies are playing mobile games, learning kpop dances, choreographing, calligraphy, watching movies and sometimes playing chess. Back in the Philippines, I don’t play any sports because we are only allowed to choose one sport and I chose to be a chess player. After I came to Canada, I fell in love with badminton and volleyball. I’m a fan of kpop and that’s where I improve my dancing skills by memorizing their dances. Now

I’m part of the Wilson Dance Academy and that’s where I enhance my dancing skills. My interests are that I want to learn how to play the piano and learn new languages. For now, I am pursuing a business management degree in MacEwan University, and at the same time figuring out what I want to do for the rest of my life. My goal is to make myself and my parents proud of what I will achieve in the future.

CAMERON LANGILLE

My name is Cameron Langille and I’m from Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. My parents’ names are Shelley and Jeff and my brother’s name is Eli. My main interests are baseball, basketball, and fishing. My favorite school memory is when the badgers went on a trip to Seattle last spring for a tournament. I first came to oyen to grow as a ball player and to have experience new things and have better opportunities. I’ve enjoyed how nice everyone is and how close the community is with one another. After I graduate I will be playing college ball for Cayuga Community College in Auburn, New York

AVERY DILLABOUGH

Hi, I’m Avery Reagan Mae Dillabough; the youngest daughter of Aaron and Deena Dillabough. I have 2 older sisters who say I’m the spoiled one, however, they have always been my biggest role models. My friends and family like to call me sprout, aves and avry. I have grown up on our farm and ranch outside of Acadia Valley with cattle and my 3 great dogs. I attended grades K-9 at Warren Peers School, where I had amazing teachers that prepared me for high school at South Central High where I completed grades 10-12. In my free time you will find me either in a full face of makeup at dance competitions or using my loud voice on the volleyball court. My love for the game and supportive family has given me the opportunity to play both high school and club volleyball. Next year I plan to attend the University of Calgary to take the 5 year combined Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Secondary Education degree with dreams of taking a masters in physiotherapy and becoming a sports physiotherapist.

For What It Is Worth, My Advice to the Graduating Class of 2023

Dear Class of 2023:

Had my priorities been in order when I graduated, my career compass would have been:

Love what you do.

Love the people you do it with.

Love what you leave behind.

We live in a complicated world, especially when it comes to work. There are usually established, but not hard and fast rules, prerequisites to meet, such as obtaining an education, to begin moving towards your career aspirations. However, even when the prerequisite is met, success is not guaranteed.

• Do not expect your degree to be enough.

After graduating from college, I stumbled through my twenties, unsure of myself and my place in the world. At the time, I did not fully grasp who I was or how my Social Science diploma would contribute to my career. Ultimately, I had to figure out the world and the workplace on my own.

Undeniably, the past three years have been tough. The pandemic redesigned student experiences, and social media became more “social” than it was pre-pandemic. You are not the first graduating class to face a world full of turmoil and uncertainty. Imagine graduating in 1942 and months later finding yourself fighting somewhere in Europe or graduating in 2008 amid what is known as The Great Recession.

You have challenges; a tight labour market, widespread layoffs, rapid technological advancement, particularly in artificial intelligence, technology that has the appearance of not being designed to enhance productivity but has an end goal of employee replacement, and hyperinflation making employers rethink how they do business.

Like every graduating class before you, you, and only you, are responsible for your career trajectory, so take full responsibility for it.

• Talk to everybody.

Opportunities are all around you; there is just one caveat: they are attached to people.

The adage, “It’s not what you know, but who you know,” is more relevant today than it ever was. Networking is the key to attaining a successful career. American entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker Jim Rohan summed up the importance of cultivating and maintaining a professional network, “Your network is your net worth.”

Recently I came across a troubling headline, Americans More Than Ever Have No Friends. The article’s author,

Elizabeth Gilbert, states that Americans are experiencing a “friendship recession.”

Today, many people participate in digital communities but have few real-life relationships. Instead of talking to people, texting has become the norm. Many employees advocate working from home so they can work in isolation. As an escape, binge-watching has become a trend.

Human contact is decreasing as more people use technology to communicate or avoid dealing with their surroundings. As a species, we are rapidly becoming unsociable. Do not be part of this decline!

Do not think you are above anybody. Give someone your undivided attention, and you will be amazed at what you learn. As much as possible, talk to people who have been there and done that. The best conversations I have ever had have been with people who had already travelled the path I was on or were where I wanted to be.

Back to the job search and career thing, I can tell you from experience that opportunities pop up from the most random conversations.

When meeting new people, remember that showing interest is a massive gesture. Place your attention on the other person by asking open-ended questions.

TIP: When meeting someone for the first time, ask yourself, “How can I help this person?”

• Do not feel entitled to anything.

Getting rid of any sense of entitlement is imperative; otherwise, you will be holding yourself back trying to fight the fundamental universal truth that the world does not owe you anything, not even to make a living.

PERIOD!

Having a sense of entitlement is a turnoff. Not expecting anything from anyone is how you become an independent adult and earn respect. When you stop feeling entitled, your self-esteem will soar, and you will start upping your game.

• Become a person who adds value. Make “Always add value” your personal mantra.

Employees who contribute measurable (keyword) value are highly regarded and likely to enjoy job security.

• Read these books.

1. How to Win Friends & Influence People, by Dale Carnegie

2. The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs: How to Be Insanely Great in Front of Any Audience, by Carmine Gallo

3. 100 Ways to Improve Your Writing: Proven Professional Techniques for Writing with Style and Power, by Gary Provost

Regarding how rapidly AI is emerging, keep a close eye on it! Nobody, not even the Internet talking heads who are suddenly “AI experts,” knows where AI is heading. One thing is certain: Many jobs will be eliminated as employers identify which jobs they can delegate to AI. Hence, avoid positions that AI is likely to be able to do in the future. Volatile economic conditions cou-

pled with rapid technological advancements have created a job market in flux like never before; hence, my last piece of advice: Never lose sight of your career goals.

Despite all the job market volatility, building a career you love is still possible by focusing on what you are good at while embracing lifelong learning. Nick Kossovan, a self-described connoisseur of human psychology, writes about what’s on his mind from Toronto. You can follow Nick on Twitter and Instagram @NKossovan

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Full-Time Swamper

Kindersley, SK CA

EMPLOYEE OVERVIEW

Good To Go Trucking & Good To Go Rentals offers rental and transportation for completions and drilling equipment to the oil and gas industry throughout Western Central Saskatchewan and Eastern Alberta. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service with safety being the highest priority!!

POSITION SUMMARY

Good To Go Trucking & Good To Go Rentals are looking for a swamper to join our team. You will be under the direct supervision of the Driver. The Swamper is responsible for assisting the Driver with duties related to jobs and basic truck maintenance. The Swamper will also be responsible to work with drivers and field personnel with a variety of tasks, pre- and post-trip inspections and maintaining tanks and various equipment. This is a full-time position based out of Kindersley, SK location.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

(Duties may include, but are not limited to the following): Communicate with the drivers at all times to spot equipment using, radios & hand signals (e.g., eye contact, verbal, hand signals)

• Is required to wear proper PPE

• Identify hazards!

• Assist driver with the pre/post trip inspections Assist with:

- Loading and uloading of equipment

- Chaining up trucks

- Pulling winch lines

- Hooking and unhooking slings

- Help others with load securement

- Inspecting rigger

- Maintenance of equipment

• Is responsible to help keep equipment clean (inside & out)

• Responsible for the safety of other workers

• Follow company policy & procedures at all times

Approximate Weights of Items Moved Frequently by the Swamper

• Planks - 20 to 50 lbs.

• Tire Chains - 80 to 125 lbs.

• Dolly legs - 40 lbs.

• Boomers - 10 lbs.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Health & Dental benefits

• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

• Matching Savings Plan

• Committed to employee advancement Please email your resume to: ddorsett@gtgt.ca or call 306-463-1454

Bed Truck, Texas Bed Truck & Winch Tractor Driver

- FULL TIME - Kindersley, SK CA

EMPLOYEE OVERVIEW

Good To Go Trucking & Good To Go Rentals offers rental and transportation for completions and drilling equipment to the oil and gas industry throughout Western Central Saskatchewan and Eastern Alberta. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service with safety being the highest priority!!

POSITION SUMMARY

Good To Go Trucking & Good To Go Rentals are looking for Winch Tractor and Bed Truck, Texas Bed Drivers, Winch Tractors to join our team. Bed Truck, Winch Tractor and Texas Bed Truck Drivers are responsible for the safe and professional transportation of equipment in compliance with company and customer policies and procedures, as well as government regulation. Driver must be in possession of a valid Class 1 driver’s license and all required training certificates (will train). The driver will utilize the unit as a light bed truck, hauling loads.

This is a full-time position based out of Kindersley, SK location.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

(Duties may include, but are not limited to the following):

• Hooks up and decks off trailer

• Pre/post trip inspections as well as company associated paperwork

• Chains up truck if muddy or icy

Contacts dispatch and field personnel to ensure clear directions

Loading and chaining downloads (rental equipment, drilling equipment etc.

• Ensures safety of all surrouding workers

• Organize loads, work on lease operation

• Identify hazards!

• Knowledge and experience with the oil and gas industry

• Willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions

• Must have valid Class 1A driver’s license

• Pulling the winch line - lifting 3’ x 10’ planing

• Training and guidance of swamper

• Load and unload equipment on various oil well sites and yards

• Ensures safe operation of the unit and equipment as per manufacturer’s specs and company policies

• Maintenance requirements of the unit

• Is responsible to help keep equipment clean (inside & out)

• Demonstrated ability, with extensive experience operating winch tractor, scissor neck trailers

• Communicate with customer’s on-site representative as required

WHAT WE OFFER

• Top of Wage Scale

• Health & Dental benefits

Short-Term & Long-Term Disability • Matching Savings Plan

Committed to employee advancement

We are a very respectable and caring

GPE Fluids Management

EMPLOYEE OVERVIEW

GPE Fluids Management is a locally owned and operated oilfield service company based in Kindersley, SK. At GPE Fluids we take pride in our employees and the service that is provided to our clients. with customer service, quality of work and safety as our focus we are currently looking to fill Class 1A Fluid Hauler positions. There are 8 positions available in Kindersley, SK. We provide excellent customer service with safety being the highest priority!!

WHAT WE OFFER

Top Wages

• Health & Dental benefits

• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability

• Matching Savings Plan

Committed to employee advancement

We are a very respectable and caring company

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

(Duties may include, but are not limited to the following):

• Reliable team player

• Safety conscious

A healthy workplace culture

Self motivated and able to work with minimal supervision

• Mechanically inclined and able to complete minor repairs on the road

• Class 1A driving experience

• Physically able to lift, push, pull and drag up to 50 lbs.

• Valid Oilfield Tickets (will train)

Please email your resume to: ddorsett@gtgt.ca or call 306-463-1454

Classifieds

Prairie West Historical Society in Eston is holding their AGM on Tuesday, May 30 at 2:00 in the Heritage Gallery at the Museum. Everyone welcome. Refreshments served.

Saturday, May 27th from 11:00 to 1:00 will be the kickoff to Saturday hotdog sales at the Eston Museum. Also “Opening Day” for the Museum’s 2023 season. Complimentary pie and ice cream treats until 2:30 Come for the BBQ or just for pie. Tour the museum and see captivating clothing displays and newly donated furniture original to the Evans House.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

AUCTIONS

MEIER ACREAGE AUCTION. Daniel Osterhout of 7416 TWP Rd 505 Drayton Valley. June 3 & June 4; 10am. 3 woodworking shops, Kubota Tractor with backhoe attachments. New Windows, Wood, Building Products, Hardware. Visit www.meierauction.com.

MEIER UNRESERVED ACREAGE SALE for Ken Lemoal and Bonnie Heck. Sun, May 28, 10am 240034 TWP Rd 472 County of Wetaskiwin. Classic Cars, Trucks, Campers, Large Selection of Antiques, Farm Equipment, visit www. meierauction.com for full listings.

CARDS OF THANKS

Thank you to everyone who helped celebrate my retirement of 47 years of work. The coffee and tea social was held at the Kindersley Legion. It was great to see the familiar faces and have a quick chat with them. The social was hosted by my family. Thank you so very much. Thank you for attending. - The David & Caroline Burke Family

COMING EVENTS

REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY:

Person to COOK & CLEAN for heavy construction camp. Must have valid driver’s licence and safe food handling ticket.

Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS & LABOURERS WANTED

For all heavy equipment: ie. dozers, excavators, scrapers etc. Camp/R & B provided. Competitive wages. Valid drivers license req’d. Send resume and work references to: Bryden Construction and Transport Co. Inc. Box 100, Arborfield, SK S0E 0A0; Fax: 306-769-8844 Email: brydenconstruct@ xplornet.ca www. brydenconstruction andtransport.ca

FEED AND SEED

ALBERTA FEED GRAIN: Buying Oats, Barley, Wheat, Canola, Peas, Screenings, Mixed Grains. Dry, Wet, Heated, or Spring Thresh. Prompt Payment. In House Trucks, In House Excreta Cleaning. Vac Rental. 1-888-483-8789.

FORAGE SEED FOR SALE: Organic & conventional: Sweet Clover, Alfalfa, Red Clover, Smooth Brome, Meadow Brome,

Crested Wheatgrass, Timothy, etc. Star City, SK. Birch Rose Acres Ltd. 306-921-9942.

AGPRO SEEDS LTD. BUYING HEATED, DAMAGED OFFGRADE CANOLA & FEED GRAINS. #1 buyer on the prairies, top price paid! Call/text: 306-873-0481, AgPro Seeds bids: agproseeds.com, Email: sales@agproseeds.com

CERTIFIED SEED

Wheat

AAC Goodwin, Go EArly, PintAil Oats

AC JuniPEr, AC MorGAn

AC MustAnG, dErby, CdC so1 suPEr oAt Barley

Ab stAndswEll, CErvEzA, CdC AustEnson, CdC MAvEriCk, sundrE Peas vEry EArly yEllow, ForAGE PEAs, Polish CAnolA, sPrinG tritiCAlE mastinseeds.com 403-556-2609

enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $125-175. Crystal Springs. 403-820-0961. Quality guaranteed.

HEALTH

WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN HEATED... LIGHT BUGS... TOUGH MIXED GRAIN SPRING THRASHED WHEAT... OATS PEAS... BARLEY CANOLA... FLAX “ON FARM PICKUP” WESTCAN FEED & GRAIN 1-877-250-5252

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Private mortgage lender. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866405-1228 www.firstandsecondmortgages.ca

FOR RENT

BACHELOR SUITE FOR RENT in Kindersley. $580/month. Phone/text 306-430-1050.

FOR SALE

WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip

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.

LAND FOR SALE

I am currently PURCHASING single to large blocks of land.

NO FEES OR COMMISSIONS

Saskatchewan born and raised, I know land, farming and farmland and can help you every step of the way.

Doug Rue, for further information 306-716-2671 saskfarms@shaw.ca www.sellyourfarm land.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Advertisements and statements contained herein are the sole responsibility of the persons or entities that post the advertisement, and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspaper Association and membership do not make any warranty as to the accuracy, completeness, truthfulness, or reliability of such advertisements. For greater information on advertising conditions, please consult the Association’s Blanket Advertising Conditions on our website at www.swna.com.

PROVINCE-WIDE CLASSIFIEDS. 49 local community newspapers, distributing to over 450 communities, including 14 cities. Reach over 550,000 readers weekly. Call 306-649.1405 or visit www.swna.com for details.

Find QUALIFIED, LOCAL EMPLOYEES, using the strength of community newspapers! Visit www. swna.com or call 306649-1405 to find out how!

GET YOUR MESSAGE

SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options

try waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-3472540. www.accesslegalmjf.com.

GET BACK ON TRACK! Bad credit? Bills? Unemployed? Need Money? We Lend! If you own your own home - you qualify. Pioneer Acceptance Corp. Member BBB. 1-877-987-1420. www. pioneerwest.com.

WANTED

BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach almost 90 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903 Ext 225; www.awna.com.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Jerrison Herve Stopanski of Empress, Alberta who died on July 3, 2022.

If you have a claim against this Estate, you must file your claim by July 5, 2023, with JOY DUKESHIRE, Solicitor, at 201, 4616 Valiant Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta T3A 0X9 and provide details of your claim. If you do not file by the date above, the

SERVICES

CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/ licensing loss? Travel/ business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US en-

NEWEST BARGAIN STORE

Posting Date May 22, 2023

1. TELEVISION: What is the name of the high school in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”?

2. MOVIES: Who voiced the character Woody in “Toy Story”?

3. LITERATURE: Who are the tragic lovers in the novel “Wuthering Heights”?

4. AD SLOGANS: Which product invites consumers to “taste the rainbow”?

5. FOOD & DRINK: Which root vegetable is known as Japanese horseradish?

6. ANATOMY: What substance gives skin its color?

7. GEOGRAPHY: Where are the Great Pyramids of Giza located?

8. HISTORY: Who was the first female prime minister of Great Britain?

9. SCIENCE: What is the hollow, woody tissue that carries water and nutrients from a plant’s roots to the entire plant?

10. U.S. STATES: Which is the only state that doesn’t have a mandatory seat belt law for adults? © 2022 King Features Synd., Inc.

Trivia Test Answerst 1. Sunnydale High.; 2. Tom Hanks.; 3. Heathcliff and Catherine.; 4. Skittles.; 5. Wasabi.; 6. Melanin.; 7. Egypt.; 8. Margaret Thatcher.; 9. Xylem.; 10. New Hampshire.

S

Truck Works Inc.

CAREER & EMPLOYMENT

SERVICES

Big Country Community Adult Learning Council 113 - 2nd Ave. W., Oyen, AB • 403-664-2060 www.bigcountrylearning.com

All services are FREE OF CHARGE. Services offered:

• Job / Labour market information

o: 306-463-6444 f: 306-463-6003

HZN.kindersleyshared@hubinternational.com

Every Monday in Leader 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM in the IG Wealth Management building Call 306-773-2891 to set up your appointment for buying or selling real estate, family law needs or any other general law practice question!

• Educational and distance learning opportunities

• Access to all calendars from educational institutions

• Access to telephone, computers and internet

• Community displays with up-to-date resources

• Links to Alberta Human Resources

• Resume preparation and writing

Kindersley residents will recognize these two figure skating champions from 25 years ago. Here is an excerpt from the March 4, 1998 edition of The Clarion describing their accomplishments.

Skating through pain, Sam Tessier limped home from the 1998 Saskatchewan Winter Games with a gold medal for Zone 7 in pre-novice figure skating. And, fellow club member Krista Maedel was carrying in her pocket a silver medal for her performance at her first Winter Games.

“It was great, a lot of fun,” Tessier, 14, said of the Winter Games experience.

Tessier was second going into the long program of the pre-novice men’s figure skating event in the first half of the Saskatchewan Winter Games, trailing Cole Fisher of Saskatoon.

Figure skating champions from 25 years ago

Sitting in second place facing the long program, Tessier said he was surprised he could skate with a knee injury suffered a couple of weeks prior to the Winter Games and aggravated by the training preparation.

“It was totally adrenaline,” Tessier said of getting through the pain in his long program. “Right at the end, on the last spin, I could really feel it.”

Tessier said the Winter Games proved to himself he has improved this skating season. “I’ve improved over the year,” he said. “I’m a little more consistent, stronger both mentally and physically, and a little more confident.”

“I skated good for myself, but not the best, though,” Krista Maedel said of her Winter Games silver medal performance finishing second in both the short and long programs. “I trained hard for the Winter Games and went to Saskatoon most Saturdays and some Sundays.”

On the move 25 years ago ...

According to information from a March, 1998 edition of The Clarion, Brock’s old Catholic Church was moved out of the village March 3, 1998 to its new home in the Madison area. It became part of Garden Gallery owned by artist Laurie Besplug, who had plans to use the building to display art. During the operation, SaskPower crews had to cut power to Brock, and lift some power lines to get the church out on to the highway.

SAM TESSIER - gold medalist at the 1998 Winter Games. KRISTA MAEDEL - silver medalist at the 1998 Winter Games

WORSHIP SERVICES

SCOTT - It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Ronald (Ron) James Scott on January 21, 2023, four days before his 87th birthday, after a brief illness at Medicine Hat Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Ron was born on January 25, 1936 at a farm north of Loverna, Sask. to the late James and Rose Scott. He married the love of his life, Beatrice Wagner of Laporte,

Sask. on July 23, 1965, 57 years ago.

Ron had many jobs and lived in many places. His first jobs included working for the railroad shovelling snow from the tracks to hauling coal from Hanna to Loverna at the age of 14. Once Ron moved away from home, he hauled grain, did construction and mechanics. He owned his own business, Scott Construction, Scott Industries and International Auctions.

Ron’s expertise at mechanics and selling always shone through. His comments were, “he could sell a refrigerator to an Eskimo”, and “if a job was worth doing it was worth doing well”. His love of mechanics often led him to mentoring young fellows in mechanics.

In 2000 he moved to Alsask, SK where he rekindled friendships from his old days and set up a mechanics shop on the old military base. He worked for the Village doing maintenance and was a mem-

ber of village council. Ron could be seen checking out the town with Beatrice by his side.

Ron can be remembered for his love of life, kindness, generosity to others, touching the hearts of many. He could be heard telling a joke or giggling at a joke. He loved all animals and could be seen playing with the neighbours’ cats and dogs every chance he got.

Ron was proud of his accomplishments and those of his children and grandchildren. Family meant everything to Ron and he loved them dearly.

Ron is survived by his wife Beatrice, children, Trevor, Sheila and Nicole and 7 grandchildren; siblings Jack, Mary (Marlyn) Warrington, Dick, Dave (Dorothy) and sister-in-law Shirley plus numerous nieces and nephews.

We thank all the nurses and doctors at Medicine Hat Hospital and Pattison Funeral Home.

Growing Through Grief: Laughter

BY ANGELA CLEMENT for Your Southwest Media Group

As I write this it almost feels like I am doing something wrong putting laughter in the same title as the word grief. It does raise some questions doesn’t it? Is it okay to laugh and grieve at the same time? I think culturally death and dying is considered a very serious topic and humor can be seen as inappropriate. This is not true of every culture. I personally believe we can grieve and laugh at the same time. I will even go so far to say that laughter is the best medicine, even in grief.

I remember back to the Celebration of Life that we held for Blaine. His first cousin Jim stood up and told stories about Blaine. Jim has always had a gift for telling stories and making people laugh. I am sure it was difficult for him to do what he did because Blaine and Jim were so close. He had us all in stitches laughing and remembering. My niece also got up and told a story and it was so comforting and funny at the same time. I don’t think everyone has the ability to get up and do this well. I am not a big fan of the whole open mic thing at funerals because of that. It takes a bit of tact to be able to carry off a good funny story when people are grieving.

Blaine too knew how to make people laugh. It was just natural for

him. I think that is one of the many reasons I fell head over heels in love with him. Fortunately my kids have inherited his gift of being funny and they do make me laugh when I am with them. My grandson makes me laugh and it is easy to make him laugh so that is fun! Normally I have to work at it if I want to make people laugh. In fact I would say for the most part I take things a bit too seriously. I think I do honor my husband to be able to laugh sometimes. A funny thought or story will elicit a giggle in me and at the same time some fond memories. As humans we are built to be able to do both laughter and grief at the same time.

I absolutely love being around funny people. I think we all do. Not the type that are “trying” to be funny but the type that can naturally elicit that deep belly laugh. I enjoy a good belly laugh. I especially love those times where you just can’t stop laughing and it actually hurts. Those are the best! This got me thinking, what if I added laughter to my wellness plan?

It has been proven that laughter IS healing. I think we know this intuitively too. There have been many studies show that laughter releases endorphins and other positive hormones that contribute to both physical and mental health. It can reduce

pain, improve blood circulation, and oxygenate your blood. These facts are what prompted me to write this post. I feel compelled to add laughter to my wellness plan alongside exercise, sleep and healthy eating. I have been thinking of how I might incorporate laughter into my day. Maybe it will become part of my morning routine. I could get one of those calendars that has a joke a day and/or I could purposely smile as I step into the shower or look out the window. I could find a great comedian to watch on YouTube. I really like Michael McIntyre. I think I need to watch him more. I have in the past enjoyed watching funny sitcoms on Netflix like Grace and Frankie or Big Bang Theory in the evenings. I need some suggestions for more. I have also just recently heard about Laughter Yoga and Laughter Meditation. Maybe I think I need to check into those as well.

I really feel like I need to laugh at myself a bit more too, not take things so seriously. Life can be serious and challenging enough. Balancing it with some laughter seems like a great plan! What do you think? Let me know if you have suggestions for me! I would love to hear from you. awakenyoursouljourney@healingenergy.world

Balancing Technology and Physical Activity

By Sonya Brown

If you were born before 1990, your childhood looked a lot different than children today. You most likely remember being outside, in an unstructured setting, having the freedom to experiment with movement skills. We felt challenged yet successful, building confidence and competence in a variety of skills and movements. Most importantly, we were having fun! We were heading on the progressing path of enhancing our physical literacy and enjoying every minute of our journey.

Today, children and youth are exposed to technology in various locations: at home, school, friend’s houses, etc. It has become a part of everyday life. Screens are popping up everywhere and this is only going to become more common. As advances in technology continue, our lives become more efficient and effective, but have we lost sight of what really matters?

Technology is increasing but can we find a balance to make sure sedentary behavior does not continue to increase? How do we find a balance in a world that is becoming overpopulated with screens?

Some tips on balancing technology and physical activity in our children’s lives, and our own lives:

• Set daily limits or guidelines. (Only certain times of the day are okay to use screens, all other times you must unplug.)

• Encourage them to get out-

doors. Who needs a screen when you can discover so much more in the great outdoors? Some ideas: scavenger hunts, snowmen building, rolling down hills, etc.

• Lead by example. Nothing has a greater impact than a positive role model. How often are you on a screen in front of them? Take note and unplug and get moving with them.

• Create a list of unplugged activities. Keep an activity jar at home and have your children help make the list.

Technology is not going anywhere, and we may not have a choice where screens are, but we do have a choice in finding balance in our lives and learning how to unplug. Learning these skills and passing them on to our children helps us all lead happy healthy lives!

Sonya Brown is a Health Promotion Facilitator with Alberta Health Services, Population, Public and Indigenous Health.

ONE STOP WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT

ACADIA VALLEY

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

THURSDAY, MAY 25

• Acadia Valley Spring Market 11:30 AM - 5:00 PM at the Acadia Valley Hall.

CEREAL

* MONDAYS - Cereal Board of Trade

BINGO. Doors open 6:30 PM. Bingo starts 7:30 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre. (BINGO cancelled on Victoria Day)

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

* WEDNESDAYS - Cereal Quilting Club meet at the CJ Peacock Centre. Call Joan Pennett for more info.

* THURSDAYS - Chase the Ace 7:008:50 PM Tix Sales. 9:00 PM Draw at the Cereal Bar. Lottery Lic. #632392

TUESDAY, MAY 16

• Cereal & District Athletic Association meet 7:00 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.

FRIDAY, MAY 26

• Cereal Golden Centre Fun Nite 7:00 PM. Cards, Pool, Puzzles, etc. For those 50+. BYOB.

MONDAY, JUNE 5

• Cereal Cemetery Clean-up 8:30 AM. Lunch to follow.

JULY 21-23

• Cereal Sports Days, Annual Slo-Pitch Tournament, Cereal Sports Grounds

EMPRESS

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

• Empress & District Historical Society “A,P. Patrick Dominion Land Surveyor At The Forks of the Red Deer. Presenter: Glen R. Belbeck.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 12

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

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

• Empress & District Historical Society “Whistle Stop Supper” with Berk Jodoin.

OYEN

FRIDAY, MAY 26

• Fun Night at Oyen Seniors Centre. Games and Socializing. BYOB and snacks. 7:00 PM until midnight. Call Lynda Grudecki 403-664-0908.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

• Lets Ride For Brody Motorcycle Poker Rally fundraiser. Meet at Oyen Legion Parking Lot. Registration from 10:3011:30 AM. Kick stands up at noon. $25 entry fee includes poker hand and supper.

• We Bike For Brody community bike ride fundraiser for all ages. $20 per person. Hot dog lunch and water provided. Registration 11:00 AM. Lunch at noon. Kick stands up at 1:30 PM. All kids participating will get their name entered in some fun draws. Under 18 must wear a helmet.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7

• Regular Pot Luck Supper and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors 6:00 PM at the Seniors Centre.

SATURDAY, JUNE 17

• East Central Regional 4-H Heifer Show at the Oyen Crossroads Centre. Purebred & Commercial Classes. All 4-H members with female projects.

• Prairieland Bull Burner at the RCMP Centennial Park

JULY 14 & 15

• The Big Country Agricultural Society (BCAS) is hosting the Oyen Indoor Rodeo.

OCTOBER 27-28

• 6th Annual Highway 41 Pheasant Festival

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

Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Notices for property held in the Special Areas were mailed May 15th, 2023 in accordance with Sections 308 & 311 of the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26, R.S.A. 2000.

Any person who wishes to object to the assessment for any property must, by July 21st , 2023

register a complaint on the Assessment Review Board Complaint Form provided at: https://specialareas.ab.ca/services/assessment-taxation/ or the Special Areas District Office in your area.

LET’S RIDE FOR BRODY

Local 10-year-old Brody Smigelski and his family are in the battle of their lives against Duchenne Muscular Dystophy (DMD). DMD is a progressive muscle degeneration with no remission. A rare genetic disorder caused by a mutation in the gene for the protein dystrophin.

JUNE 3, 2023

Oyen Legion Parking Lot

Registration 10:30 - 11:30 AM Kick Stands up at Noon.

$25 entry fee includes poker hand and supper. Ghost Hands for non-riders - $20 a hand or 3 for $50. Silent Auction - Food and Drinks/Bar

To purchase Ghost Hands or any inquiries contact Cheryl @ 403-664-9872. Silent Auction info contact Kari @ 403-664-1001. FUNDS RAISED WILL BE USED TO INCREASE BRODY’S INDEPENDENCE AND OPPORTUNITIES!

WE BIKE FOR BRODY

In addition to the already scheduled “LET’S RIDE FOR BRODY” which is a Motorcycle and Poker Rally, we invite everyone of all ages to come out and help us help the Smigelski Family!

JUNE 3 - OYEN PUBLIC SCHOOL BUS LOOP

Registration 11:00 AM - Lunch @ Noon. Kick Stands up at 1:30 PM

$20/person includes Hot Dog Lunch, Snack and Water. Fun Draws for particpating kids! Under 18 years of age must wear a helmet.