Oyen Seniors start beautification project
BY BETH SYMES
On the cool morning of May 15th, ten seniors gathered at the Oyen and District Seniors hall to do some gardening. Funds from a New Horizons Grant and a donation from Marvie Kenny made in memory of her father, Alvin Carran, had allowed money for a purchase of grasses and Spirea which were to be planted in the outdoor area on the south side of the building.
Lynda and Lorraine had chosen the plants. In addition, the flowering plants of calibrachoa (million bells) were purchased to go into planters there and on the west side of the building.
Beautification work had begun last summer with landscaping work being done on the south side of the building. A gravel base had been laid at that time.
Thus, the work to be done on May 15th was to plant the grasses and the Spirea in the gravel base and the flowering plants in planters to beautify the outdoor space around the hall.
In addition to the plants, a cart, which had been donated by the museum, was brought and subsequently approved by the majority of those present as further adding to the outdoor décor. [ It would be appreciated if anyone knows how this cart would have been used during its earlier life, they could pass that information on to the Seniors Group.]
A further addition of an antique family trunk was made to add to the display. This trunk will serve as holder for further flower planters as yet unfilled. With these two items in place, the next task was to plan the positioning of the some 20 odd grasses and Spirea plants.
Then the physical work began; scraping the gravel off each site, cutting the fabric that lay under the gravel, then digging into the earth so the plant could be transplanted in the hole.
At noon, having completed about a third of the work, the group took a lunch break to enjoy pizza. After lunch the group continued to work until about 3:00 PM to complete the planting of the grasses, Spirea and the transplanting of the calibrachoa into the planters.
Several further plants will be purchased to be placed in the planters in the trunk. The final work will be done by nature itself through the sun and the rain over this summer encouraging the plants to grow. As you walk, cycle or drive about Oyen, come past the seniors centre to see how our work and that of nature is progressing.
OPINION: Canadians are asking questions
BY JOAN JANZEN
Teachers love asking questions, so here are a few clever responses from their students. Teacher: “If you got $20 from five people, what do you get?” Student: “A new bike.”
Teacher: “If I had seven apples in one hand and six oranges in the other, what would I have?” Student: “Big hands.”
Meanwhile, the Finance Minister’s recent announcement had Canadians asking why there will be no spring budget this year. After the government announced it would release a fall economic statement and a budget in 2026, numerous comments were made about failing to deliver on a campaign promise to “deliver a plan.” The Prime Minister quickly backtracked and announced that there would be a budget in the fall after all.
A Canadian Minute newsletter reminded Canadians of stalled negotiations between Canada Post and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers, which led to a postal strike. A report from the government-appointed Industrial Inquiry Commission suggested that parttime employees should be allowed to work weekends and during the week and that door-to-door delivery to homes should be ended to improve finances. The report also warned that Canada Post is effectively bankrupt.
Speaking of bankruptcy, a headline from a May 13th CBC article reads: “London, Ontario cricket plant ordered into receivership amid $41 million debt
The bad news is that millions of our tax dollars went down the drain; the good news is that we don’t have to eat bugs.
bill to creditor.” Ryan from Northern Perspective noted the cricket plant was funded through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) to the tune of $35 million in federal funding.
A Farm Credit Canada application reported the plant was unable to replicate the harvest methodology developed in Austin, Texas.
I read a Healthline article from 2021 that promoted cricket consumption as an environmentally friendly, easily digestible source of protein and “an easy to produce source of nutrients.” Apparently, crickets are not as easy to produce as they thought.
Ryan said there’s good news and bad news. The bad news is that millions of our tax dollars went down the drain; the good news is that we don’t have to eat bugs. Meanwhile, every summer, there are plenty of crickets on the prairies.
A Government of Alberta report noted crickets eat mosquito eggs, larvae and pupae, and are an important predator of grasshoppers, destroying up to fifty
percent of them in some areas. So, if you don’t love mosquitoes and grasshoppers, you may be thankful for crickets.
Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan Minute news report noted the Saskatchewan Government’s newly launched Low Productivity and Reactivation Oil Well Program (LPRP). LPRP offers a royalty structure to companies that reactivate inactive or low-producing wells. The province’s goal is to reach 600,000 barrels per day, generate $21 million in royalty revenue, reduce inactive wells, and extend the life of existing assets.
The Canadian Minute newsletter also reported Canada imposed new 25% tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods, but the Canadian government also quietly introduced exemptions. According to Oxford Economics, exemptions for products in Canadian manufacturing, processing and food and beverage packaging brought the real rate of retaliation down to nearly zero.
Northern Perspective reported that the United States Surtax Remission Order was issued on April 16, 2025, and publicly announced in the Canada Gazette on May 7, 2025. The Liberals claim they did inform Canadians, but it was posted behind a pay wall, which is why the majority of Canadians were not aware of the exemptions prior to the election.
Ryan from Northern Perspective said, “The Prime Minister publicly told everybody that he has all these tariffs in place and he was adding more tariffs,
despite the fact most of those were going to be exempt. On this occasion, he decided not to have a publicly filmed session of him signing this order in council because it completely contradicts every single thing he said about the United States and the tariffs and what we were doing in response. There were no tariffs as of April 16, 2025. Any company that wanted to apply for an exemption could receive it.”
Nevertheless from April 17 right up until the election the Prime Minister was claiming “We’ll fight back with counter tariffs that are causing maximum damage, and my government will keep our tariffs on until the Americans show us respect.” So was ‘elbows up’ just a new political dance? That’s a good question, and Ryan had a few more questions. He asked if the friendly visit between the President and Prime Minister was because none of the American goods were having tariffs charged on them. “The Prime Minister said in his campaign there is going to be $20 billion in extra revenue that he would incorporate into his platform. This was projected from tariff revenue. Maybe that’s why the federal budget is delayed?” Ryan asked.
A continual onslaught of news clips and announcements has caused Canadians to ask questions. They are seeking informative and honest answers.
Pop89: We are the soil
BY MADONNA HAMEL
I admit to slipping into a style of talking that gives over to unconsidered emotional responses. Sometimes, I attribute it to my astrological sign: hey, I’m an Aries! Or I explain that my psychological and physiological heritage is to blame.
In fact, when I moved to Quebec City, where I lived for a dozen years, I experienced a strange sense of belonging, accompanied by a sense of relief that I was not a weirdo, just Latin! As my friend Guy explained: “The Quebecois are the Latins of the cold climate! You can’t really understand Quebeckers until you’ve spent a winter here.”
By the same token, I’d say: You can’t really understand Canadians until you’ve spent a full year in Quebec, watching how the seasons are handled and celebrated, basking in the crazed euphoria of that first warm evening when Spring finally arrives. Joining everyone as they rush outside, refusing to go back indoors until next winter.
Then again, when I moved to the prairie, I found another approach, just as Canadian, to life and its challenges and unforeseen circumstances: “Hunker down and get ‘er done.” It’s not like people don’t have opinions or insights; they just don’t feel the need to impress them upon everyone in a state of euphoria!
I arrived and expressed my well-researched opinions at coffee row while the farmers and ranchers silently drank their ultra-weak coffees. I brought my urban-formed itself to the country, claiming to be open and accepting but acting pretty damn smart.
There is a difference between smart and wise. Between theory and practice, and the longer I live on the prairie the longer I realize, this is not a culture of theory but of practice.
Many people have no language for their experiences, they just live them. If I ask about any spiritual encounters they might have out on the wild prairie, te response to my unwelcome prying is a shrug. There is almost a taboo against putting such things into words. As one rancher friend said, with much exasperation, after I tried to express my deep sense of relief and release and alignment with some Great Mystery while on The Butte: “We feel things. We just. Don’t. Talk about it.”
I don’t mean to denigrate my own spiritual experience, but I’m learning what prairie people already know: you can chase away these personal encounters with too much talk. This may be due to the reserved nature of this territory’s immigrant heritage: Norwegian, Swedish and German. But the village was originally French. With a touch of
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Pursuant to the Municipal Government Act, being Chapter M-26 of the Statutes of Alberta, notice is hereby given that the Municipal District of Acadia No. 34 (MD of Acadia) will hold a public hearing prior to the second reading of Amendment to Land Use Bylaw 2025-796. Bylaw 2025-796 proposes to amend the current Land Use Bylaw 2024-790 with an updated Land Use Bylaw.
The Land Use Bylaw (LUB) serves as the “rule book” for the development within the MD of Acadia. The LUB regulates the development of land and buildings on a site-specific basis, based on the policy directions set by the MD of Acadia’s Municipal Development Plan. The LUB regulates how land can be used, including what uses are appropriate and where they can be located. The LUB aims to balance landowner’s rights with the interests of the community.
Some of the key highlights of the proposed amendment to Land Use Bylaw 2024-790 include:
1. Update and correct clerical formatting errors including:
i. Remove “Section 11 Except as Provided for in Section 3 Development Not Requiring a Development Permit” and Subsections 11.1.1 to 11. 1. 3, from Section 10.2 Accessory Buildings, Structures and uses.
ii. Update Table of Contents and sections numbering as required.
2. In Section 14. Agricultural General District, add the following Use as a Discretionary Use alphabetically under Subsection 14.4.1.
i. “Natural Resource Extraction and Processing Facility”
Russian and Belgian diaspora as well. Not to mention the ever-present Cree, Nakota, Lakota and Dakota and Metis ancestry.
I’m not about to claim that everyone here is the salt and light of the earth. All the churches that were once here, including the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, are closed. Empty. I can’t say what people do in place of a faith practice, but I concur with the new Pope’s words: “ A lack of faith is often tragically accompanied by the loss of meaning in life, the neglect of mercy, appalling violations of human dignity.”
In his inauguration and at his first general audience, the Pope chose words about words: “Disarm our words, and we will disarm our world.” In his first public address, he retold the parable of the sower. But first, he defined what a parable is! An etymologist pope, how great is that! After all, defining our terms helps us avoid misunderstandings.
“The term “parable” comes from the Greek verb “paraballein”, he told us, “which means: to throw in front of. The parable throws before me a word that provokes me and prompts me to question myself.”
He then goes on to say that the seed being thrown is the word. “And what is this terrain? This soil?” he asks. “It is our heart. It is us.” How important are words? His answer is clear: “The word provokes every reality.”
In one week the Pope has blown away the notion, enforced and maintained by so many in the press, that to get heard and seen and respected you have to be outrageous, gimmicky, to be a top story “you have to bleed to lead.” But that belief is just a paradigm, and
BUFFALO NEWS
Proposed Bylaw 2025-796 MD of Acadia No. 34 Land Use Bylaw The Oyen Law Office of Niblock & compaNy
Should you wish to address Council in person, a public hearing for Bylaw 2025-796 will be held in the MD of Acadia Office at #9 Main Street, Acadia Valley, AB on Council will hear from any person claiming to be affected by the proposed bylaw.
Additionally, written comments may be delivered to Box 30, Acadia Valley, AB, T0J0A0 or emailed to cao@mdacadia.ab.ca submissions will be received up to Wednesday June 4,2025 at 4:00 p.m.
The proposed Amendment to Land Use Bylaw 2024-790 can be viewed Monday through Thursday at #9 Main Street, Acadia Valley, AB from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
paradigms can be shifted and broken if need be.
But we have to WANT to “break the paradigm of war”, of warring sides. Some people thrive on misunderstandings- their antennae only picks up possible contentious comments, not possible communal moments. Why? Perhaps because contentiousness is less intimate and intimacy is too vulnerable? The words of the new Pope suggest that having faith in something bigger than us allows us to feel safe in our vulnerability.
One thing is for certain: we CAN shift from tense to relaxed, from negative to positive, from hostile to civil if we so choose. In one week the Pope has changed the tone and raised the tenor of encountering the world with calm, a caring and careful use of language, and unmistakable dignity.
Maybe the man’s nature or character is calm, even shy, as some say. But more likely, it’s his formation, the habits and vows that helped him train to become a decent, considerate person who thinks before speaking.
I know I need to ask myself before stating my views: How important is it? I have a few battles in life worth fighting so I have to choose wisely, because life is where I put my time and energy and as I get older I have less of both. If we are the soil, I don’t wantthrough watching too many videos and tweets and clips of loose-talking politicians and celebrities - to become a toxic terrain. I don’t want my words or seeds to be cheap and empty. Most of all, I want the seeds of kindness and love to find nourishment and a place to grow in my soil.
Retirement celebration coming up on May 31st
BY LORRAINE MONKMAN
It’s been a long time since I wrote a news column. Life has been hectic this new year. The area has been blessed with some rain the past few days. Maybe not all crops are seeded yet but the moisture will greatly improve the germination.
Get well wishes go out to Gail Andrus who spent some time in Oyen Hospital earlier. She is now at home recuperating and doing well.
Marg Schonhofer had the misfortune to fall in their new garage in Brooks and broke her leg. She is now at home with
home care and therapists coming in to help her get mobile again. She is doing fine and we expect you to be out and around again soon Marg.
The Buffalo Ag Society will host a Retirement Celebration honouring Stan and Robin Krause, Bill and Diane Campbell and Marg and Simon Schonhofer on Saturday, May 31 at the Buffalo Hall at 5:30 pm. Everyone is invited to attend the supper and program and wish all these couples well in their new homes. We hope to see you all there. Please reply immediately to Buffalocommunity5@gmail.com to assist in meal planning.
Flagg touted as can’t-miss NBA star
BY BRUCE PENTON
Even if you’re only a casual fan of U.S. college basketball, you’ve probably heard of Cooper Flagg, who will be the No. 1 selection in the June 25 National Basketball Association draft.
BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist
Just as golf fans had heard of a young Tiger Woods prior to his big splash on the PGA Tour in 1996; just as Canadian hockey fans were well aware of the junior hockey exploits of Wayne Gretzky in the mid-1970s; just as basketball fans knew all about Michael Jordan before he hit the hardwood in the NBA in the 1980s, the name Cooper Flagg is as famous as any North American amateur athlete these days.
Still only 18 years of age, Flagg graduated high school a year early, enrolled at Duke University as a 17-year-old and dominated the U.S. college hoop scene like no other in his rookie season.
He won every major national player of the year award, and led the Blue Devils to a 35-4 record and a berth in March Madness’s Final Four. (They lost 70–67 to Houston.)
“His highlights, his statistics, the ways he impacted the game on both ends of the floor, really in every category, was off the charts as good of a freshman season that a guy has had here,” Duke coach Jon Scheyer told the Associated Press.
Dallas Mavericks, who made major headlines during the season by trading their superstar guard, Luka Doncic, to the Los Angeles Lakers, had the bingo balls bounce in their favour in the NBA draft lottery and give them the No. 1 pick. Naturally, it will be Flagg, team officials said.
Flagg, who grew up in Maine in a basketball-crazy family (both his parents played college hoops), averaged 19.2 points per game with Duke this year, grabbed 7.5 rebounds per game and had 4.2 assists.
While being selected No. 1 is no guarantee of success, most analysts who study the NBA are expecting Flagg to be a star. “His ball-handling, playmaking and ability to function as a finisher are far superior to Risacher’s skill,” wrote Morten Stig Jensen of yahoo.com,
referring to last year’s No. 1 overall choice, forward Zaccharie Risacher of the Atlanta Hawks. He’s slightly inferior to the 2023 No. 1 pick, Frenchman Victor Wenbenyama, of San Antonio Spurs, but power forward Paolo Banchero, another former Duke player who went No. 1 to Orlando in 2022, isn’t as good a prospect as Flagg, wrote Stig Jensen.
The draft is often a crapshoot. In 1984, Jordan didn’t get picked until selection No. 3, waiting while Akeem Olajuwon went to the Houston Rockets at No. 1 and 7-foot-1 Sam Bowie was picked by Portland Trail Blazers at No. 2. Olajuwon went on to have a starry career in the NBA while Bowie, plagued by injuries, averaged only 10.9 points per game in 10 seasons.
History tells us Cooper Flagg being picked No. 1 by Dallas is by no means a slam dunk, but the Mavs are expecting their top pick to be more like Jordan, less like Bowie.
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “I just was watching Terminator 2, where the T-1000 becomes so brittle that with each movement, part of his body breaks. Anyone else just think of Joel Embiid of the 76ers?”
• Comedy writer Alex Kaseberg: “United Football League’s Samson Nacua slaps a fan at a UFL game. That is shocking. There is a United Football League?”
• Comedy guy Torben Rolfsen of Vancouver, after coach Rick Tocchet and the Canucks went their separate ways. “Some people are calling for the return of John Tortorella. Well, at least one guy who runs a gas station in Point Roberts.”
• Ontario columnist Keith Schell, on the Utah NHL team’s new name, Mammoth: “I think they missed a glorious marketing opportunity by not naming their team the ‘Stormin’ Mormons’.”
• Super 70s Sports, on Pete Rose: “He’s already enshrined in the Gambling, Nacho Helmet, and Bad Haircut Halls of Fame.”
• TheBeaverton.com continues to pick on the Leafs: “‘One day I’ll be dead and I won’t have to watch this team,’ thinks Leafs fan to cheer himself up.”
• Gary Van Sickle of golf website The First Call, on whether the PGA could create as much drama as this year’s Masters: “A White Sox fan is now the Pope so, yes, anything is possible.”
• Headline at fark.com: “The NFL schedules TV games accordingly after learning the people love to tune in to watch the Cowboys lose.”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
AUPE negotiations update: Minister Horner
President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Nate Horner issued the following statement on bargaining between the Government of Alberta and the AUPE.
“Alberta’s government values and appreciates the hard work of its 22,000 employees who are members of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE). Unfortunately, union leadership has not been forthright with its members and sold the idea that a successful strike vote would provide more leverage at the bargaining table. Union leadership broke off negotiations and asked the mediator to withdraw from the process, despite government negotiators indicating there was room to move. The government’s previous offer to the union included general wage increases of about 12 per cent over four years for all employees, along with market-adjustment salary increases for occupations facing recruitment and retention issues. This is the same general wage increase that nearly 60 other Alberta public sector bargaining groups have re-
cently settled for.
AUPE is demanding a 29 per cent wage increase over four years. There is no evidence of a wage settlement that large for any group of workers in Alberta, or in Canada. If government met AUPE’s demands and then extended those increases to all other public sector employees, the cumulative increase would cost taxpayers about $23 billion over four years. That’s about the same amount of money that’s in the Heritage Savings Trust Fund, or two years of funding for kindergarten to Grade 12 education.
If AUPE leadership continues to be unreasonable and unrealistic, the situation could escalate to a strike by government workers or a government-initiated lockout. Neither option is desirable. I encourage AUPE leadership to come back to the table with realistic aspirations.
Contingency planning is ongoing to support core government services in the event of a strike or a lockout.”
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.
Service: Talk & Action
BY DAMIEN KUREK
Battle River-Crowfoot MP
It is a true honour to once again receive a clear mandate from the people of Battle River—Crowfoot, a mandate that demands change, hope, and a restoration of the promise of Canada. Throughout this past election, I have heard clearly the cry for change and the fear that we would continue being held back and trapped in the downward spiral we have seen over this last decade of Liberal leadership. Though our Conservative team under Pierre Poilievre made great strides, we came just short of the finish line in this past election.
I have been proud to fight for an unapologetically hopeful vision that puts Canada first not just as a slogan but as the foundation of what the Government
PUBLIC NOTICE
HENRY KROEGER REGIONAL WATER SERVICES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT ACT NOTICE OF APPLICATION
In accordance with the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, Henry Kroeger Regional Water Services Commission has applied to Alberta Environment and Protected Areas for renewal to an existing approval for the Henry Kroeger Regional Waterworks System. The waterworks system obtains surface water from the Red Deer River located in the SE ¼ 25-028-14-W4M and emergency source consisting of surface water from Helmer Dam located in the SW ¼ 18-031-14-W4M. The regional waterworks system consists of raw water storage, raw water aeration, pre-oxidation, pre chlorination, powdered activated carbon to remove taste and odour, flocculation, clarification, rapid sand filtration treatment, pH adjustment, UV disinfection and chlorine disinfection, clearwell reservoir, a regional water transmission network from the water treatment plant to Special areas #2 and #3, Oyen, M.D Acadia Valley, Starland County, Stettler County, Hanna, Delia, Youngstown.
The renewal will reflect that water continues to be treated in accordance with Alberta Environment and Protected Area’s’ current standards and guidelines.
A directly affected person may provide input into certain regulatory decisions, as allowed by the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (section 73). Specifically, any person who is directly affected by this application may submit a written statement of concern within 30 days of the date of this notice to: current standards and guidelines.
Environment and Protected Areas
Regulatory Assurance Section - Approvals Unit
5th Floor, South Petroleum Plaza - 9915 - 108 ST EDMONTON, AB T5K 2G8
Fax: (780) 422-0154 • E-mail: epa.epeaapplications@gov.ab.ca
The written statement of concern should include the following:
- the application number 020-1521
- describe concerns that are relevant to matters regulated by the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act
- explain how the filer of the concern will be directly affected by the activities proposed in the application
- provide the legal land location of the land owned or used by the filer where the concerns described are believed to be applicable
- state the distance between the land owned or ussed by the filer and the site in the application
- contact information including the full name and mailing address of the filer
Please provide a telephone number and/or email address for ease of contact.
Environment and Protected Areas will revew each written statement of concern, seek more information if needed, and notify each filer by letter of the decision to accept or reject their written submission as a valid statement of concern. The Public Notice of this application will also be posted on the Department’s website at https://avw.alberta.ca/PublicNoticesViewer.aspx.
Statements of concern submitted regarding this application are public records which are accessible by the public and the applicant. Failure to file a statement of concern may affect the right to file a Notice of Appeal with the Environmental Appeals Board.
Copies of the application and additional information can be obtained from:
Henry Kroeger Regional Water Services
Attention: Garth Carl 501 South Municipal Road PO Box 2170
Hanna, AB T0J 1P0
Telephone: 403-854-3523 • Email: admin@hkrwsc.org
Damien Kurek
of Canada should stand for. It is in doing what’s best for Battle River— Crowfoot, Alberta, and Canada that Danielle and I made the decision to temporarily step aside as your Member of Parliament, triggering a by-election that will allow Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre to run in this riding. While this was not an easy decision, it was one made with a lot of prayer and thought. We truly believe this offer of resignation is the best way we can serve you and support the future of our country.
We have heard from many of you regarding our decision to temporarily step aside, both your excitement and your concerns. When we made the offer to Pierre, we specifically asked for his commitment in representing the people of Battle River—Crowfoot. We know how important it is for Pierre to get out to the region, to see our people, and be our voice in Parliament as Leader of the Opposition. Have no doubt, Pierre is one of the hardest-working politicians I have ever met, and as he gave his resounding commitment to represent our people, I truly believe he will serve this region well.
Practically, there are rules and processes around how an MP resigns. This means that my official resignation cannot take place until the middle of June. Until then, I have been sworn in and will continue to remain your MP, taking my seat in Parliament, which will allow me to vote for a new speaker and continue fulfilling a number of essential duties. Shortly after my official resignation, the Prime Minister will be tasked with calling a by-election, which we hope will take place by mid-summer. Throughout this whole process, my team and I are working hard to ensure that casework and constituency services are uninterrupted. If you need assistance with any federal Government programs or services, please reach out.
During my official swearing-in as your MP this past week, I chose to recite The Oath in front of the portrait of Sir John A. Macdonald. In the time around Confederation, Canada’s first Prime Minister was a bold and fearless nation-builder. While not perfect, he truly believed in Canada and its future. In this reflection, it is Danielle’s and my hope that, in a small way, our actions will contribute to the continued building of our nation. Throughout this entire process, we continue to be deeply committed to serving the people of Battle River—Crowfoot and being a voice of representation. Until the next federal general election, where I will once again be your Conservative Candidate, this is how we feel we can best put the talk of service into action.
We need to build on our Conservative momentum with that strong, united vision that will restore the Canadian promise. I would ask you that the trust you have put in me, you also put in Pierre, someone who I truly believe is the right person to be Canada’s Prime Minister.
I appreciate your support, understanding, and trust as we proceed.
Acadia Municipal Library
BY TRICIA FISCHBUCH Library Manager
There are a couple of new books in this week. Enjoy A Map to Paradise by Susan Meissner in adult fiction and The Ageless Brain: How to Sharpen and Protect Your Mind for a Lifetime by Dale E. Bredesen, MD in non fiction.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to fill out and return their library survey! We hope to use the results to better serve the community.
The last after-school movie for this school year is scheduled for Tuesday June 10th at 3:30pm. We will be showing Harold and the Purple Crayon. Bring a friend!
“Read the best books first, or you may not have a chance to read them at all.” — Henry David Thoreau
Damien and Danielle Kurek stand in front of a portrait of Sir John A Macdonald with their children.
Senior’s Week is fast approaching
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello, everyone. I hope everyone had a great long weekend. Congratulations to all the high school graduates on the long weekend. It was nice to get a little moisture. It’s nice to freshen things up, but we need a lot more.
Monday was a stat holiday, Victoria Day, so there were no office staff or activities that day.
Tuesday morning started with exercises and the regular bus run downtown for shopping. Before lunch, we
did some walking outside.
In the afternoon, there was an ice cream parlour where floats, sundaes and banana splits were served. Taylor Neilson was at the Lodge to play piano before supper.
Wednesday morning there was Church with John. Personal Touch Clothing and Avon were at the Lodge from 10:00-2:00 on Wednesday. In the afternoon there were
shuffleboard games.
Thursday morning started with exercises, followed by a one-onone with a resident to do some baking. In the afternoon, some of the Consort Lodge residents came to the Lodge for a tour of the Oyen Lodge, had coffee and snacks and did some socializing with the residents and staff.
Friday morning started with horse
Promoting Alberta on the world stage
Finance Minister Nate Horner will travel to Europe May 25-June 5 to meet with Alberta’s bond investors and the investment community.
Minister Horner will meet with groups of investors, government officials and industry in Germany, Czechia, Poland, the United Kingdom and Ireland. The meetings are an opportunity to market Alberta bonds to new global investors and to strengthen ties with those already familiar with Alberta. Minister Horner will speak to Alberta’s current fiscal plan, as well as market the province’s investment opportunities and economic strengths.
“As we continue to deal with uncertainty in our trade relations, it’s more important than ever to strengthen economic ties with other markets around the world. I’m looking forward to promoting Alberta’s successes and opportunities, and marketing our province as a key destination to do business.”
Nate Horner, President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance
Alberta is the best place to invest as it offers reliable access to global markets, low taxes, abundant
resources and a skilled, growing workforce – all backed by a stable, pro-business government.
Minister Horner will be travelling with one government staff member. Mission expenses will be posted on the travel and expense disclosure page.
Itinerary for Minister Horner
*May 25
• Travel to Munich
May 27
• Meetings with investors
• Travel to Frankfurt
May 28
• Meetings with investors
• Travel to Prague
May 29
• Meetings with investors
May 30
• Travel to Warsaw
• Meetings with investors
• Travel to London
June 2
• Meetings with investors
• Minister to ring closing bell at London Stock Exchange
Town of Oyen Library: Booknotes
BY DAYNA WILSON Library Manager
FICTION:
The Hidden Girl / by:
Lucinda Riley
GRAPHIC NOVELS:
Baby-Sitter’s Little Sister Vol .10 /
PERIODICALS:
The library is currently open as usual, but we have added a curbside service option as well. If you prefer to pick up materials this way, please call ahead or email to let us know which day to put them out.
*If you are unable to come out to the library due to physical condi-
tions we can do deliveries within the town limits. Please just give us a call at the number listed below.
Library Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7 403-664-3644 ext. 2 aoymlibrary@oyenlibrary.ca www.oyenlibrary.ca www.facebook.com/OyenLibrary
June 3
races. #2 horse Mariah was the top winner that day. In the afternoon, there was bingo, and in the evening, there was music by the Jorgenson’s and Dale Huston. Seniors’ week is approaching soon, so there will be lots of activities going on in the community.
On Tuesday June 3rd, there will be a new clothing line coming to Oyen Lodge. “Clothes 2 You” by Jodi from Coronation will be at the Lodge from 1:00-4:00 in the afternoon. Have a great week, everyone. Keep smiling and enjoying the sunshine.
• Meetings with investors
• Travel to Dublin
June 4
• Meetings with investors
June 5
Travel to Calgary (via London)
*Subject to change.
PUBLIC NOTICE
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Please be advised that pursuant to Section 308(4) of the Municipal Government Act, the assessment notice relating to the same property have been combined into one notice.
In accordance with Section 311(1) of the Municipal Government Act RSA 2000, notice is hereby given that the 2025 Assessment and Tax Notices for all assessed properties within the Town of Oyen were mailed on May 8, 2025.
Any assessed person(s) or Taxpayer(s) who may wish to lodge his/her complaint(s) in writing, must do so before July 15, 2025, to the Clerk of the Assessment Review Board, Town of Oyen, Box 360, Oyen, Alberta, T0J 2J0.
Complaint forms are available online at www.oyen.ca or at the Town Office, 201 Main Street, Provincial Building, Oyen, Alberta. All appellants are required to enclose a $50.00 fee per appeal, and if successful the fee will be returned.
If you have any questions, please contact the Town Office at (403) 664-3511.
Dated this 16th day of May, 2025 Debbie Ross, CAO
Please note, that at their April 15, 2025 Regular Council Meeting, the Council of the Town of Oyen passed a resolution to move the Tax Due Date to June 30 from July 31 beginning in 2026. Hanna Vision
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10:00 am - 4:00 pm 5002 Municipal Rd., Coronation 403-578-3221
Dianne Spath
Nate Horner
Wildfire Community Preparedness Day held in Consort
The Special Areas Emergency Services and Consort Fire & Rescue were excited to host a Community Emergency Preparedness Day on May 7, 2025, in Consort, AB. Emergency management partners from across the region joined the event to help raise awareness of what people can do in and around their homes to help prepare for emergencies like wildfires, severe storms, and power outages.
With over 75 people stopping by, this event was a great opportunity for community members to get the latest information on preparing for (and responding to) emergencies.
“Emergency situations can happen very quickly. If we are all a little more prepared, these events can be a little less stressful and scary. In emergencies, time is one of the most valuable things we have. There are some simple steps people can take to be more prepared. Making a plan, and practicing it, can make all the difference if you ever have an emergency affect you or your operation. Other ways you can prepare include packing your 72-hour kit and knowing how you would help your family, pets and livestock,” said Rob Palmer, SAB Fire Chief.
Besides fire services, this event had
CUTTING HAY IN SPECIAL AREAS DITCHES
Ratepayers are advised Special Areas will begin roadside grass control (ditch mowing) for local roads on June 9, 2025.
Alberta Transportation is responsible for roadside grass control on primary and secondary highways.
If you would like to harvest roadside vegetation for hay, contact your local District Office at:
- SA2 - Hanna - (403) 854-5625
- SA3 - Oyen - (403) 664-3618
- SA4 - Consort - (403) 577-3523
many partners from across the region attending, including the Village of Consort, Eastern Alberta Regional Victim Services Society, Compass Sign & Safety, and RCMP, ATCO supported this annual event for the third year, and local staff were on hand to cook up a delicious BBQ supper.
Door prizes were a hit, including 72hour emergency kits and fire prevention & response tools like leaf blowers, fire extinguishers, and water packs. Rogers Insurance also donated an old-fashioned popcorn machine. This event was funded in part through FireSmart’s 2025 Wildfire Community Preparedness Day
grant program. This national campaign encourages citizens to take actions to increase their home, neighbourhood, and community’s resilience to wildfire. Learn more about how to prepare for emergencies by visiting https://www. alberta.ca/resources-for-your-community. To learn more about how you can help prevent wildfires, visit Fire Smart Alberta at https://www.alberta.ca/ wildfire-prevention-and-mitigation. For more information on Fire & Emergency Services in the Special Areas, visit https://specialareas.ab.ca/services/ fire-emergency-services/.
Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Notices for property held in the Special Areas were mailed May 15th, 2025 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 , 2025
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.
Classifieds
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME
BUILDINGS since 2008
(20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Friday noon.
3 bedroom house for sale on triple lot.
BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@ integritybuilt.com 1-866-9747678 www.integritybuilt.com.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
THE LAKESIDE LEADER is hiring a reporter/ photographer for an ongoing, full-time position in Slave Lake. Must have own car and camera. Email resume to: joemc@ lakesideleader.com.
FARM MACHINERY
BLANKET THE PROVINCE with a classified ad. Only $269/wk (based on 25 words or less). Reach 75 weekly newspapers. Call NOW for details. 1-800-282-6903; www.awna.com; email classifieds@awna.com.
FEED AND SEED
BARLEY – *NEW-AB Standswell* Smooth AWN, High Yielding, Grain and Forage Great Lodging Resistance. 1st NITROGEN USE EFFICIENT CEREAL IN CANADA. Attracting
Japanese Interest. OTHER BARLEY: Cerveza, CDC Austenson, CDC Maverick, Sundre. WHEAT – Pintail, Forage or Grain. OATS – AC Juniper, AC Morgan, AC Mustang, Derby, CDC S01 Super Oat. PEAS – Very Early Yellow Peas, Forage Peas. ALSO AVAILABLE: Polish Canola & Spring Triticale. mastinseeds.com; 403-556-2609.
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.
FOR SALE
WHITE SPRUCE TREES: 5’ average $50. Installation ONLY $19. Includes: hole augered, Wurzel Dip enzyme injection, bark mulch application, staking. Minimum order 25. One-time fuel charge: $150 - 225. Crystal Springs. 403-8200961. Quality guaranteed.
HEALTH
HIP/KNEE REPLACEMENT. Other medical conditions causing TROUBLE WALKING or DRESSING? The Disability Tax Credit
allows for $3,000 yearly tax credit and $30,000 lump sum refund. Take advantage of this offer. Apply NOW; quickest refund Nationwide: Expert help. 1-844-4535372.
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS
GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 500,000 Alberta readers weekly. Three options starting at $269, $299 or $599 to get your message out! KEEP people in the loop with over 75 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.com for details. 1-800-282-6903, 780-434-8746 www.awna. com.
SERVICES
CRIMINAL RECORD? Why suffer employment/ licensing loss? Travel/ business opportunities? Be embarrassed? Think: Criminal Pardon. US entry waiver. Record purge. File destruction. Free consultation. 1-800-3472540. www.accesslegalmjf. com.
PRIVATE MORTGAGE
LENDER. All real estate
types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. Toll free 1-866-405-1228; www. firstandsecondmortgages. ca.
WANTED
MAY SENIORS SPECIAL! 10% MORE ON ALL CASH PAYOUTS. SILVER Coins, Canadian Coins, GOLD coins, chains, rings...We buy them ALL! Silver flatware, tea sets, all things silver, Canadian Mint sets. We come to the privacy of your home, no fees! Call Joy or Ted 1-825-966-4373.
Growing through grief: Dare To dream
BY ANGELA CLEMENT
Have you just experienced a significant loss? Are you overwhelmed by the emotions that flood your being? Are you worried it will be this way forever? Do you wonder if you will ever live life in a joyful way ever again?
I know how impossible it feels to lose someone who used to bring the sunshine and joy to your days. I remember thinking the best part of my life might just be over.
Then one day I heard the phrase “Post Traumatic Growth”. I wondered how growing out of an experience like this was even possible for anyone. Would it be possible for me?
The thought intrigued me. I started to get curious about how growth could happen and if it would lead me back to a fulfilling life I would love again. Even though I had no idea how, I hoped that I might find a way back to a fulfilled life and that this loss would not prove that my best days were behind me. I wanted to be able to enjoy life again without always having the cloud of sadness that seemed to follow me everywhere, even in what would have once been joyful moments.
What I didn’t know is just that tiny, little spark of curiosity about post traumatic growth started the ball rolling for me in a new direction and it created a momentum as I began to allow myself, even for brief moments, to dream of a life where I could be happy and free from the clouds of worry and sadness. Maybe I could build a new life or start a new chapter? I didn’t know it then but just that one curious thought was
seen and heard like a prayer to a higher power. As I let myself become open to new possibilities, I found out I didn’t need to, nor could I, think myself through this. I felt the experiences were coming to me as I let myself relax a little and just be. I met energy healers that opened up my mind and changed my perspective and I met a grief coach that inspired me and gave me the courage to face what I found terrifying.
I didn’t know where my path was leading, but I trusted I would be able to get back to a life I loved. I also felt like I had been through the worst already so what did I have to lose?
Now, 3 years later, I look back and I see how the little bread crumbs have led me back to my joy again. I can see that I was working in partnership with a higher power and that I was never left to dream alone. All the desires and dreams for joy and happiness were seen and heard by the divine forces and they were reflected to me in my world by these unforeseen opportunities. I was fueled by my willingness to be inspired and recognizing how I wanted to feel. I allowed myself to imagine a life of joy and set some little intentions.
You can dream about how you want to feel, take little steps and surrender the rest. Your job is to know your why and to just hold space for your dream. Then just seek joyful moments as you wait for the “how” to be revealed. Things seem to work out when you can allow yourself to let go of a particular outcome and keep sight on what you desire. I dare you to dream and have the courage to embrace what comes. We were all gifted the power of imagination. Epiphanies come when we allow ourselves to just do the things that feed our soul. What will you dare to dream?
Nuffield Canada scholarships bring the world of agriculture to Canada
Applications for 2026 Nuffield Canada Agricultural Scholarships are open now through June 30.
The Nuffield Scholarship is a prestigious rural innovation program available to Canadian citizens who are involved in any aspect of agriculture. Its goal is to attract mid-career applicants with a passion for agriculture who are ready to challenge themselves in a program of self-directed international travel and study. The experience results in personal and professional benefits, while adding value to Canadian agriculture as scholars assume positions of greater influence in their field.
Candidates can apply through a written and oneway video application process, from which a short list is interviewed, then final selections made. Successful candidates will be awarded a $20,000 scholarship and a unique opportunity to: access the world’s most extensive peer to peer networks in food and farming; achieve personal development through travel and study; and deliver long-term benefits to Canadian farmers and growers, and to the industry as a whole.
“If you’re looking to make a positive impact on your business, your community and Canadian agriculture, this is the opportunity for you. Through Nuffield, our Scholars learn to navigate big topics, diverse opinions, people, cultures and ideas,” explains Steve Larocque, Nuffield Canada Chair, 2008 Scholar, and owner of Beyond Agronomy – a crop advisory service based out of Three-Hills, Alberta. “I highly recommend a Nuffield Scholarship to any individual in Canadian agriculture who is curious, enjoys travel, exploring, learning and
wants to be part of a thriving international community of agriculturalists.“
Recipients must do a minimum of 10 weeks of travel study within 24 months to examine and research a topic of their choosing relevant to modern agricultural production or practices. They then write a scholar report (approx. 10,000 words) on their research findings, conclusions, and recommendations, and make a presentation at Nuffield Canada’s Annual General Meeting, with the Board, peers, sponsors, and industry leaders in attendance.
Scholarship recipients can come from all areas of primary production including food, fibre, health care, biofuels, forestry, aquaculture, and fisheries. Successful candidates can represent any aspect of the value chain such as primary production, processing, governance, communications, safety, mental health, and others. Nuffield Canada values diversity and encourages applicants from all production philosophies such as commercial, organic, cottage, medicinal, Indigenous, Kosher, Halal, and others.
Nuffield Canada, a registered Canadian charity, is over 140 alumni strong. As part of a larger international community, Nuffield Canada has affiliate organizations in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Kenya, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, United Kingdom, United States of America, and Zimbabwe. Scholar recipients instantly become members of the 2,000 global Nuffield alumni network, which hosts and supports traveling scholars.
Measles outbreak prompts standing measles exposure advisory for South Zone
LETHBRIDGE - Alberta Health Services (AHS) continues to manage a significant number of cases of measles across the South Zone, including in individuals with no known exposure source. This indicates underreporting of measles disease to AHS, and a widespread potential exposure risk across all communities in the zone.
As such, AHS is issuing a standing measles exposure advisory for South Zone, effective immediately and until further notice. This standing advisory will replace the use of separate site-specific exposure advisories, which no longer accurately capture the scope of potential risk at this time in the zone.
All individuals living, working, or attending school in, or travelling to, the South Zone are advised to be aware of the significant current risk for measles disease, and ensure immunizations are up to date.
At this point, anyone in the South Zone who was born in or after 1970 and has fewer than two documented doses of measles-containing vaccine, is at risk for developing measles. They should monitor for symptoms of measles and
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are strongly encouraged to review their immunization records.
Measles vaccine is highly effective at preventing infection and complications. In Alberta, measles vaccine is offered, free of charge, through Alberta’s publicly funded immunization program. The recommended schedule for measles immunization is two doses, the first at 1 year of age and the second at 18 months. At this time, those who live, work or travel to South Zone are also currently eligible for additional immunizations:
• Infants who are 6 months up to and including 11 months of age are recommended to receive an early dose of vaccine. However, they should still receive their routine two doses after they reach 1 year of age.
• If you were born before 1970 and have not been immunized, talk to your healthcare provider about possibly receiving a single dose of measles vaccine.
If you think you have been exposed, and you are not protected against measles you may be able to receive immunization to reduce the risk of infection. A
Visit lukplumbing.com for more details or email your resume to jeanabaker@lukplumbing.com
306-463-6707
807 - 9th St. W. Kindersley, SK
We try our best to keep events up-to-date, but if you see an error or have a cancellation, please let us know!
ALSASK
SATURDAY, JUNE 14
• Alsask Drop-Inn Club hosts its annual Pig Roast Supper featuring homemade fries, coleslaw & dessert; bar service; live music; and horseshoes, pool or cards. Doors open at noon to midnight with food service from 4 - 8 pm. Cost for this fundraiser is $25/person and $10 for children age 6-12. For info call Dave (306)4630169 or visit the Facebook page. Great opportunity to spend time with Dad for Father’s Day weekend. Everyone welcome - join us at the Alsask Drop-Inn Centre, 206 Main Street.
- Drop in Pickleball every Tuesday 8:00 PM at the Alsask Rec Centre. All ages are welcome.
BINDLOSS
SATURDAY, JUNE 7
• Bindloss Sports Days Mixed SlowPitch Tournament. Food Truck, Dance,
dose of vaccine needs to be given within 72 hours of exposure to prevent measles. Babies under 1 year of age, people with severely weakened immune systems, and those who are pregnant may be able to receive immunoglobulin within six days of exposure to prevent disease. Call the measles hotline at 1-844-9443434 for more information if these situations apply to you or your family.
Albertans uncertain of their immunization history, or their child’s immunization history, can check eligibility and/or book an appointment by calling the measles hotline at 1-844-944-3434.
Individuals who are 14 years of age and older can check their My Health Record.
If symptoms of measles do develop, individuals are advised to stay home and call the measles hotline at 1-844944-3434 before visiting any healthcare facility or provider, including a family physician clinic or pharmacy.
Symptoms of measles include:
• Fever of 38.3° C or higher; and
• Cough, runny nose and/or red eyes; and
• A rash that appears 3 to 7 days after fever starts, usually beginning behind the ears and on the face and spreading down to the body and then to the arms and legs. The rash appears red and blotchy on lighter skin colours. On darker skin colours, it can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, or it might be hard to see.
The measles hotline connects you to a professional who can assist with accessing your immunization records or offer general information; provide advice for those experiencing measles symptoms and are feeling unwell; and assist with booking measles immunization appointments or locating a public health clinic offering immunization in your area.
Measles is an extremely contagious disease and the virus spreads easily through the air.
Complications of measles can include ear infections, pneumonia, inflammation of the brain, premature delivery, and rarely death. Persons who are pregnant, less than 5 years of age, or have weakened immune systems are at greatest risk of severe outcomes.
DJ: Will Mohl. For more info and to enter, contact Mark at 403-928-5838.
CEREAL
MONDAY, JUNE 2
• Cottrell Cemetery Annual Clean-up 8:30 AM. Bring lawn mowers, trimmers as well as rakes, shovels, leaf blowers, etc that you have to bring. Lunch will be provided following the clean-up at the Cereal Community Centre. Hope to see you there!
- Cereal Cottages Coffee on Tuesdays 10:30 - 11:30 AM
- Quilting Club weekly Wednesdays 10:00 AM - 4 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
- Cereal Playground most Tuesdays 10:00 AM at the CJ Peacock Centre.
EMPRESS
SATURDAY, MAY 31
• Empress & District Fine Arts, Cultural and Leisure Society Arbor Day Celebration “Plant A Tree With Us!” 12:00 - 2:30 PM. Worm Composting Workshop at 12:30. Tree Planting 2:00. Join us for lunch.
- Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture
and Leisure Society Craft Monday 1:00 PM at Empress Community Hall Craft Room. Everyone is welcome and coffee is always on!
- Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture and Leisure Society presents Snarples Thursdays 7:00 PM. No entry fee. Great opportunity to see old friends, make some new ones and learn a new card game. Empress Community Hall (314 Centre St.)
- Game Night Saturdays at 7:00 PM at the Community Hall. Come join us for a night of fun and excitement. Play games and hang out with friends and family.
OYEN
THURSDAY, MAY 29
• Community Grant Presentation 4:005:00 PM Oyen & District Seniors Association Recreation Centre (216 - 2nd Street West, Oyen). Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta and Lanfine Wind Community Fund.
FRIDAY, MAY 30
• Fun Night for members and their guests at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre 7:00 PM to Midnight. Games and Socializing. BYOB and Snacks.
Submit your Upcoming Event to kate@yourwestcentral.com or
Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403664-2462 for more information.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4
• Regular Pot Luck and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors. (50+) Please bring Salads or Dessert for Pot Luck to complete BBQ Hamburgers which will be provided. Pot Luck at 6:00 PM. Meeting at 7:00 PM. Call Lynda 403664-0908 or Beth 403-664-2462 for further information.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8
• SMBL-WCBL Heritage Baseball Game 3:00 PM Doug Lehman Field. Sylvan Lake Gulls vs Lethbridge Bulls. Celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Oyen Pronghorns 1995 League Championship! Advance tickets available at the Town of Oyen Office. See full page ad in this paper.
- Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Tuesday of every month 6:00 PM in Council Chambers.
- Community Choir every Wednesday at 7:00 PM in the Evangelical Missionary Church.