echo THE OYEN
Without a voice, there is no echo.
Mike Gauley cherished his 35-year military career
BY JOAN JANZEN
Mike Gauley, from Cereal, Alberta, took time to share some of his experiences serving in the Canadian military for more than 35 years. In 2017, he transferred to the Reserves and worked with the Cadet program as a way to wean himself off a career he cherished. He was released on Oct. 31, 2023, and said, “I would do it all over again if I could.”
Mike joined the military when he was 18, serving as an army reservist for two years in Lethbridge before joining the Regular Force. “I originally served as an artilleryman in the Airborne Battery as part of the Canadian Airborne Battle Group. After five years, I voluntarily transferred to the parachute infantry. I finished my full-time career with 14 years in Special Operations,” he explained.
He did four tours in Afghanistan, with each tour having a different mission. His first deployment was part of the initial response to the 9/11 attacks, which lasted seven months. During his second six-month tour, he provided security for Canadian officials who had the mission of assisting the Afghans with their governance structures. They ran escorts in the area that served as the centre of the Taliban, to permit meetings with the local governor and other officials.
“At that time, the Taliban were trying to re-consolidate their power with the goal of destabilizing any effort to empower everyday Afghan citizens by the West or their own government,” Mike said. “They hit our teams often with indiscriminate attacks in crowded areas, causing civilian casualties as well as casualties to our own comrades. In one attack, Canadian diplomat Glynn Berry was killed, and several soldiers in my platoon were severely wounded.”
While on tour in Afghanistan, there were rules the soldiers needed to respect. For example, they weren’t al-
lowed to speak to or acknowledge the presence of women. “But having women soldiers with us permitted them to engage with the women in Afghan society,” he explained.
Mike pointed out another distinction between the cultures: how the Afghans do business. “If you have an hour to meet with a tribal elder to secure an agreement, we learned to spend the first 45 minutes speaking about family, achieving a human connection to make us relatable to them,” he explained. “Only then could you engage
(L) Chief Warrant Officer Mike Gauley (retired) covers for Sgt. Mike Rude (retired) as he engages with Afghan police and another armed member via an interpreter, in Panjwayi, southern Afghanistan in 2005. Both men are from Cereal, Alta. SUBMITTED
CAN’T SEE OUT?
FINANCING AVAILABLE
www.anchorglass.ab.ca
OPTION #1
Replace the Foggy Unit
OPTION #2
Replace the Window
email: tim@anchorglass.ab.ca
Phone: 403-854-4414
Toll Free: 1-800-463-3148
Never Forget Always Remember
...Mike Gauley
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
in discussion of business, such as asking them about the presence of the Taliban, how we could help secure their village, the things they needed to improve life for themselves, etc.”
When he was on operations in the early days, his platoon was inserted by U.S. helicopters into the high ground to clear out Al Qaeda from the mountains. “Once a couple more landed, we had a large enough force to start pushing our way further down the mountain range,” he explained. It was a big operation, including approximately 400 soldiers.
They carried their supplies in rucksacks weighing over 70 pounds; however, the rucksacks of soldiers carrying machine guns and large radios were even heavier. Rockets were fired into caves, which lightened the load for some of the soldiers.
“After a full day of clearing and blasting cave sanctuaries and moving across the mountain range, we set up for the night,” he said. They built small sanctuaries out of rock for protection from enemy fire and slept with their boots on, ready to be awakened for sentry duty to protect everyone while they slept.
In the morning, they would heat up rations and brew coffee on little stoves they carried for their one hot meal of the day before getting their orders for the day. “As the weather warmed, we didn’t have snow to melt for water, so we were resupplied by helicopter dropping water and rations for us,” he said.
Flying Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Oyen, Alberta
Died: Apr 21,1944
On April 21, 1944, Flying Officer
George Albert England died following mining operations when his Halifax bomber caught fire in mid-air on its return to RAF Middleton St. George, County Durham, England and crashed nearby. England is commemorated at Brookwood Military Cemetery, Woking, Surrey, England.
Private Army
Acadia Valley, Alberta
Died: Sep 26,1916
Edward Angus Innes was born August 4, 1891 at Campbellford, Ontario.
Single and a farmer by trade, Edward was living at Acadia Valley, Alberta when he enlisted at Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan in April of 1915.
Private Innes died September 26, 1916 and is commemorated on the Vimy Memorial in France. He was 25.
This 24-hour cycle continued until the job was done. At the end of the operation, the soldiers were tired, dirty, unshaven and hungry. Injured people were evacuated by extremely skilled pilots who could put the large helicopters into impossible spots, “sometimes with only a single wheel or the edge of the rear ramp contacting the ground,” he said.
Mike had done a few tours in places like Bosnia and Cyprus before he found himself in Afghanistan, but he said, “It was never pleasant being away from family.” The soldiers could communicate with loved ones via email and Skype.
“We would receive letters from Canadian school children, to which a lot of us would respond. Mail was always a morale boost,” he added. “One time, I was based near the border of Pakistan at a small outpost where we were resupplied by parachute airdrop every few nights. Living there was pretty rough. But they dropped in a Bowflex exercise machine to us one night.”
During the time Canada was stationed in Afghanistan, Mike reported: “We proudly enabled a generation of girls to become educated women, and we rendered banditry and oppression relatively extinct for their citizens. We opened schools and clinics, helped them start their form of democracy, and prevented the Taliban from ruling like they do there now—by decree and violence.”
Photo (submitted)
(L) Chief Warrant Officer Mike Gauley (retired) covers for Sgt. Mike Rude (retired) as he engages with Afghan police and another armed member via an interpreter, in Panjwayi, southern Afghanistan in 2005. Both men are from Cereal, Alta.
Mike Gauley (L) and Mike Rude resting on the steps of the municipal district’s HAQ in Panjwayi, Afghanistan.
THE OYEN & DISTRICT HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
THE OYEN & DISTRICT HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
Wishes to acknowledge that between November 1, 2024 and October 31, 2025 they have been the grateful recipient of donations in memory of the following:
Wishes to acknowledge that between November 1, 2022 and October 31, 2023 they have been the grateful recipient of donations in memory of the following:
Bergen, Ronald Booker, Margaret Byler, Dennis Clampitt, Pat Hansen, Reatha Hoffmann, Alma Hoffmann, August Hoffmann, Donna Jaques, Arthur Johnson, Vernon
Jorgenson, Shirley Kulbergs, Kerry Kulyk, Evhyn Logan, Esler Marlow, Tim Marr, Jim McKinistry, Alberta Meers, Mervin Nichol, Fred Paetz, Rita
Allen, Hugh Andersen, Inga Barnett, Beth Benson, Wayne Caskey, Marlene Davidson, Jim Devereux, Terry Gray, Beth Hauck, Dwight Kohut, Anne Kowal, Noah Kroker, Helen Lo, Vivian Logan, Miles McKelvie, Dean McKelvie, Edna McLaughlin, Luci Mehl, Michele
YOUNGSTOWN OFFICE - JANITORIAL SERVICES
The Special Areas Board is requesting proposals for the provision of janitorial services at the Special Areas Youngstown Office. Duties to commence January 1, 2026 and will be for a 12 month term.
The size of the building is approximately 815 m2 (8,750 ft 2) and will require daily cleaning, five (5) days per week . Details of the work to be performed as well as Terms and Conditions of the Agreement are available at the Youngstown Office and the premises can be viewed prior to tendering.
Park, Shirley Rice, Ed Sanderson, Denny Shubert, Karen Shubert, Ronald Skappak, Freddi Smigelski, Michael Thornton, Jean Wenzel, Mel Yake, Alice
Monkman, Bob Nichols, Ken Peers, Marion Sletton, Muriel Smigelski, Dorothy Walker, Diane Walker, Walter White, Peter
Applicants must be bondable. No subcontracting of this service is permitted without prior approval. Tenders must be based on a monthly rate. The Special Areas Board reserves the right to select a bid other than the low bidder.
Closing Date: December 5, 2025
Please submit proposals to the attention of: Dawn Lyon, Office Manager Special
GEORGE ALBERT ENGLAND
EDWARD ANGUS INNES
Mike Gauley (L) and Mike Rude resting on the steps of the municipal district’s HAQ in Panjwayi, Afghanistan. SUBMITTED
Remembering a Canadian actor who served in WWII
BY JOAN JANZEN
There’s an old joke that claims it was disappointing to discover a universal remote control didn’t control the entire universe. I’m old enough to remember when there was no remote, and the only two options available for television viewing were “on or off.”
Opinion By Joan Janzen
When the television was on, CBC was the only choice available. As a result, I grew up watching The Beachcombers, a series filmed in Gibson, B.C., beginning in 1972. Does anyone remember Relic, the villain in the series?
The character was played by Robert Clothier. But unlike the greedy con man he portrayed, who hated everybody, Robert was a courageous war hero. As we celebrate Remembrance Day, I thought it was appropriate to share Robert’s history in WWII.
Robert remained humble in spite of receiving countless fan letters and having people lined up to meet ‘Relic.’ No one seemed to be aware of his time served in Bomber Command during WWII until after his death.
Robert passed away in 1999, but it was only after a memorial was built in 2005 at the war museum in Nanton, Alberta, that Canadians realized Robert was also famous as a war hero. He was identified in a photo of the 408 Goose Squadron.
His navigator said Robert was the best pilot in the entire Air Force and was the first pilot in his squadron to complete two tours of operation, equaling about 60 dangerous missions. He had a onein-four chance of survival.
The life of Robert Clothier began in 1921 when he was born in Prince Rupert, B.C., later moving to Vancouver. He enlisted on his 19th birthday and joined the Air Force, where he learned to fly all manner of aircraft. The museum in Nanton, Alberta, displays many of the planes he flew.
He was said to be an excellent pilot and was admired by everyone. He was sent to Europe in August 1941, and during his first operation in Europe, three of his team’s eight aircraft were destroyed.
He was known for his bravery. After completing a night of bombing, he would voluntarily sweep the plane down low so the crew could attack the enemy with machine guns. On one mission, he was in danger of being spotted, so he stalled his plane and, in spite of having a full bomb load aboard, he did a complete upside-down flip to evade enemy fire.
He logged well over 1,000 hours as a pilot while stationed in England and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, given for an act of valour and devotion to duty. He was said to be an
He was known for his bravery. After completing a night of bombing, he would voluntarily sweep the plane down low so the crew could attack the enemy with machine guns.
inspiration to all with his courage, coolness, and calmness.
The site of an RCAF training base remains in Vancouver, where he served as an instructor. On Dec. 23, 1944, he was assigned a training flight with three young men. Moments after takeoff, the plane lost power and slammed into a ditch. Robert was the only survivor and had his back broken in five places.
A few weeks after the crash, he was told his older brother had been killed by friendly fire in England. It was a challenging time for Robert, but he defied all odds, and after two years of rehab, he walked once again.
Besides being a famous actor and war hero, he had unparalleled artistic talents. His award-winning sculpture stands at the University of British Columbia.
Colonel David Redman was recently interviewed online. He said, “We have
so many soldiers in the history of our country who died to defend our rights and freedoms. Isn’t it time, as individual citizens, we take their sacrifice more seriously? Canada is the way Canada is because of people who have gone before us.”
He emphasized the need for Canadians to rebuild self-responsibility. “Along with freedom comes responsibility. If you don’t defend your rights and freedoms, totalitarian dictatorship will ultimately take over,” he said. “Canadians need to determine what rights and freedoms they believe they want in our country, and how far they’re prepared to go to defend them.”
He quoted Red Skelton, a comedian from years ago, who said: “My freedom and my rights end when they impact and deny rights and freedoms for another citizen.” So we have to have that balance.
Colonel Redman said, “If you want rights and freedoms, you have to be responsible and do your part to defend them.”
The people we honour on Remembrance Day did their part; now we have to continue to do our part to ensure we continue to enjoy those freedoms. We can take a lesson from Robert Clothier. Although he was well known for his role as Relic, the villain, his life as a courageous war hero remained unknown for many years. While his television fame provided entertainment years ago, his time as a WWII pilot has had a lifelong impact on Canadian history that we continue to remember.
Open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday
Visit our page to see our specials 403-972-3848
Mactavish & Company
403-528-4995
523c North Railway St SE, Medicine Hat, AB tmactavish@mactavishco.ca • www.mactavishco.ca
Terry Lynne Mactavish
ANNUAL MEETING
Monday, December 8, 2025 7:00 PM
Crossroads Centre, Oyen ~ ELECTION of OFFICERS ~
“They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember
Laurence Binyon
them.“
Perfectly natural crap
I was on my way to lay some flowers on the graves of Val Marie’s ancestors last Sunday evening when out of the corner came a flashing light. And then, another. It was as though there was lightning in my head. Then came the flock of gulls. I’ve had floaters before, but these were far busier and more numerous. The gulls kept swarming by, over and over, like a recurring video clip, diving through smoke rings immersed in champagne bubbly. I decided not to go to the cemetery and returned home to phone my brother instead.
By Madonna Hamel
My brother knows about disturbing eye activity. Two and a half years ago, he realized he was having a stroke when his eye slowly went dark. It was four in the morning, and he was just sitting down to a cup of coffee and some “light” reading on the history of consciousness before going to work on a construction site. Suffice it to say, he doesn’t take eyesight for granted, so when he reassured me I wasn’t having a stroke, I decided to postpone my drive to Swift Current emergency until morning.
Last Sunday was also my mother’s birthday and All Souls’ Day. In his homily, spoken outdoors, surrounded by venerable old Verano cypress and cedar trees, Pope Leo reflected on memories of our dearly departed: “Often, something brings them to mind, and we recall experiences we once shared with them. Many places, even the fragrance of our homes, speak to us of those we have loved and who have gone before us, vividly maintaining their memory for us.”
He also assured us that love is the glue that helps us maintain our link with the dead, because love conquers all, and “whenever we dwell in love and show charity to others, especially the weakest and most needy, we can anticipate an unbreakable bond with those who have gone before us.”
I try to align myself with this sentiment, but I admit it’s far easier to do so when I’m not the “weak and needy” one needing attention. As I age, I have to accept that moments of frailty will become more frequent. I was reminded once more of this act when, in emergency, the doctor, who was thorough and very kind, and young enough to be my kid, “assured” me that I did not have a detached retina, but vitreous detachment. “It’s a common condition where the gel that fills the eye, called the vitreous, shrinks and separates from the retina. A natural part of aging.”
Oh, that’s good. So good to know these “common” and “natural” parts of the process of aging happen to everyone.
But there’s nothing “common” when they’re actually happening to each individual. It’s personal, especially when it’s for the first time. It does NOT feel “natural” to have birds dive-bombing into and dancing with ink splotches while you’re trying to read, drive, make supper. It’s an exceptional, one-of-a-kind experience, even though the professionals see it hundreds of times a month.
These inescapable experiences would be less disconcerting if treating older people as Precious Fonts of Wisdom was also a “common” and “natural” part of aging. If taking advantage of their knowledge happened hundreds of times a month, as well.
But I am the first to admit that throughout my 20s— hell, my 50s—I was so self-absorbed and confident in my immortality that I never took advantage of all the opportunities to sit at the feet of my elders and learn a thing or two about life. About winning and, especially, losing. About inhabiting a body with a limited span. About watching people you love leave. About the humbling disappearance of abilities taken for granted, like running for the bus, staying out all night, hitting a high note, dancing at weddings, pall-bearing at funerals, hiking steep mountain passes. Not to mention struggling for meaning as you rise and fall every day.
Pope Francis believed “when the elderly are listened to, society becomes wiser.” But he also observed we live in a disposable culture that is involved in a “conspiracy surrounding the life of the elderly. This may seem an exaggeration,” he said, “but not if we consider that the loneliness and abandonment of the elderly is not by chance or inevitable, but the fruit of decisions—political, economic, social and personal decisions—that fail to acknowledge the infinite dignity of each person.” Indigenous cultures have understood, for centuries, not just the “dignity” of the elderly, but the rich and powerful teachings that come from the lived experience of elders, wisdom we are desperately in need of.
But how do we turn the juggernaut of our obsession with youth, performance, skin-deep cultural standards of beauty around to face farther shores? We can begin by listening, not with an impatient, patronizing, merely tolerating ear, but with a hunger for nourishment that goes far deeper than needing to have it “all under control.”
I realize you don’t really “get it” until you lose it. And by that I’m referring to that aha moment when something—usually a medical diagnosis—breaks your bubble and says: hello! You’re going to die one day! So, it was with great relief and gratitude that, when I went for coffee after my visit to emergency, I found myself sitting with three older and wiser farm women.
And sure enough, each woman had a story about her eyes. From a glass eye you could pop out, to floaters that looked like fishing nets, to cataract surgery that’s as “common as going for a haircut.” It’s all “perfectly natural crap” that comes with aging. The women downplayed fears and howled with laughter at the many crazy and lovely memories life provided them. They were enjoying their day, thankful that coffee hadn’t been crossed off their list of “allowed” treats. They saved my day. (As did the simple joy of the fragrance and flavour of a cup of coffee.) Their well-lived lives enriched mine!
Just a gal from Glidden
Honouring those who gave everything
BY KATE WINQUIST
For 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of curating a special edition dedicated to Canadians who served our country— past and present—especially those who paid the ultimate price. Each page is a reminder of courage, sacrifice, and the freedoms we enjoy because of them.
My personal inspiration comes from my great-uncle, Bruce Maclennan, who gave his life at just 21. His story, like that of so many others, reminds us of the cost of freedom.
Bruce served with the Moose Squadron during the Second World War. One mission in particular still haunts the pages of history. In an effort to strike at U-boat manufacturing yards in Voss, near Hamburg, 28 Lancaster bombers took to the skies. Heavy clouds masked the target, and most bombs missed. Bruce’s group, the last to arrive, reached the target ten minutes behind schedule. The delay meant they had no fighter escort, leaving them exposed. Soon, 30 German Me 262 jet fighters descended from 10,000 feet, swarming the slower Lancasters with devastating speed and firepower. The Moose Squadron had faced the Me 262 before, but the
DONALD JOHN CHARLES CROFTS
Private Army
Sedalia, Alberta
Died: June 8, 1944
Commemorated at
Beny-Sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery in Calvados, France.
encounter cost lives. Two crews were lost that night, including KB869.
The story of KB869 was later recorded in the POW report of P/O Milne, one of only three survivors. He described the intercom being knocked out, the pilot, F/O Bowes, motioning the flight engineer and bomb aimer to escape, and the chaos that followed. An explosion tore through the nose of the Lancaster, leaving only destruction behind. Milne, along with Rowlands and Berry, survived to identify the bodies of their crewmates—likely under the watchful eyes of German officers. The aircraft crashed near Hittfeld, nine kilometres south of Hamburg.
These acts of bravery were not just historical events. They were young Canadians, many barely older than teenagers, facing unimaginable danger. Every year, Canadians honour them. We wear poppies, attend ceremonies, and visit memorials. But remembrance should not be limited to a single day. Peace, like freedom, requires constant effort—a duty we all share.
On this day, and every day, let us remember the sacrifices of Bruce and all those who gave everything. Their courage still speaks to us, and their legacy demands we never forget.
FRED SCOTT MARTIN
Warrant Officer Class I
Royal Canadian Air Force
Oyen, Alberta
Died: Sep 24,1944
Commemorated at Malta Memorial, Malta
GORDON HENRY PYBUS
Lieutenant Army
Empress, Alberta
Died: Decembermber 24, 1943
Commemorated at Moro River Canadian War Cemetery, Italy
JAMES RICHARD WALKER Flying Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Cereal, Alberta Died: November 16, 1940
Commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, England
THOMAS IRVING MAY
Flight Sergeant Air Force
Sibbald, Alberta
Died: January 22, 1942
Commemorated at Maidstone Cemetery; Kent, United Kingdom
SAMUEL HENRY
JAMES PEARCE
Flying Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Empress, Alberta
Died: December 18, 1944
Commemorated at Leopoldsburg War Cemetery, Belgium
Screening is available at no cost, but appointments are required. Please call 1- 800-667-0604 (toll free) screeningforlife.ca Eligible for individuals aged 45 to 74
So close, but no Series’ title, for Blue Jays
BY BRUCE PENTON
If this year’s World Series could be narrowed down to a simple ‘Who killed the Toronto Blue Jays?’, let’s get right to the point and play a sports version of Clue. Open the little envelope and here’s what’s inside:
It was Hoffman.
In the ninth.
With a slider.
Sports
By Bruce Penton
Poor Jeff Hoffman. The Blue Jays much maligned ninth-inning closer was two outs away from turning Canada into a state of sports delirium when he delivered a fateful slider to the weakest hitter in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ lineup, Miguel Rojas, who hadn’t had a base hit since Oct. 2, thanks mainly to sitting on the bench..
Rojas swung and the ball sailed over the left-field wall, tying the game 4-4, sending it into extra innings and the pessimists among Canada’s 41 million people had a bad feeling that the Jays’ spectacular season was not going to end well.
Said Hoffman after the game: “That (pitch) cost everybody in here a World Series ring, so it’s pretty (expletive). Got to execute better in that spot.”
In the 11th inning, Will Smith duplicated Rojas’s heroics, slamming a solo homer off Shane Bieber but with the Jays showing life with a rally in the bottom of the 11th, Toronto catcher Alejandro Kirk, who performed hitting and defensive heroics all year, grounded into a season-ending, dream-ending double play.
That’s baseball. No sense in beating up Hoffman, or Bieber, or anyone on the Blue Jays, for that matter. The team overachieved all summer, starting off 16-19
WE
through 35 games and then dominating the American League from June through the end of September. For a team that most experts pegged for a fifth-place finish in the five-team American League East to come within two outs of a World Series title is almost unimaginable.
Most of Game 7 went the Jays’ way. There was an early 3-0 lead and it was 4-2 Toronto in the eighth before Max Muncy of the Dodgers hit a solo shot that made it 4-3. Jays’ manager John Schneider then called on Hoffman to get four outs and automatic hero worship status across the country before Rojas spoiled that narrative in the ninth.
It was 32 years ago when Joe Carter’s home run beat Philadelphia Phillies and gave Toronto its second straight World Series title. Fans all across Canada were giddy for most of the game with the thought that that three-decade drought was going to end.
It didn’t, but there’s always next year, although one of the team’s best hitters, Bo Bichette, is a free agent and may depart. Management will try in the off-season to fill a few holes in the team’s lineup, one of which is a dependable closer. Hoffman had 33 saves this year in 40 opportunities but his 4.37 earned-run average told a more accurate story of his effectiveness.
Still, it was a great year. And the Jays’ near-perfect run to the World Series helped bring Canada together, so all was not lost.
• Montreal Canadiens’ Brendan Gallagher, with an on-ice chirp to Florida’s Brad Marchand: “Oh, my God, your nose is even bigger in person than it is on TV.”
• Super 70s Sports, on X: “John Hadl enjoyed a banner day in 1975 when he passed for 275 yards and two touchdowns against the Giants and performed a poignant a cappella version of Scarborough Fair in the huddle that brought two offensive linemen to tears.”
• Headline in the New York Times: “Texas Cheat ’Em? U.S. Details How Mob Lured High Rollers Into Poker Trap.”
• Columnist Norman Chad, on X, on cries that gambling should be banned. “That’s like legislating that the sun could not rise. Trust me, the sun will still rise.”
• Cathal Kelly in the Globe and Mail, on the Dodgers’ reliance on superstar Shohei Ohtani: “When Ohtani’s not performing magic, the rest of his team has trouble remembering where they put their rabbits.”
• Vancouver comedy guy Torben Rolfsen, as the Dodgers-Jays Game 3 dragged on toward the 18th inning: “Rams vs. Argonauts to settle it?”
• Comedy writer Brad Dickson of Omaha: “I just had a trick or treater who was wearing his undershorts on top of his head, acting stupid, bumping into stuff, a real doofus who kept mumbling ‘I hate Nebraska, I hate Nebraska.’ I said, ‘Kid, who’re you supposed to be?’ He goes, ‘A Big Ten referee.’”
• Columnist Norman Chad on X: “True story: I was watching Trey Yesavage as an 18-year-old freshman at East Carolina in 2022. He had a 4.50 ERA and a 1.731 WHIP, with 13 wild pitches and 15 walks in 26 innings. I told my bar buddy, ‘He’s working at Best Buy by year’s end.’ So once in a while I’m wrong.”
• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “Halloween guidelines in many elementary schools call for outfits that don’t scare anybody. So my niece dressed her kids as New York Jets.”
• Headline at fark.com: “Giannis Antetokounmpo walks from midcourse to the rim on one dribble, refs are like ‘hey, that’s cool.’”
Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca
SAMUEL HENRY
LEMON Private Army
Acadia Valley, Alberta
Died: Jun 3,1916
Samuel “Tiny”
Henry Lemon was born May 24, 1877 at Mappowder, Dorset, England, where his father served as Rector of Mappowder. A veteran of the Anglo Boer War in South Africa, Lemon came to Canada following the war and settling near Vandyne in the Acadia Valley of southern Alberta.
Lemon died while fighting at Sanctuary Wood during the Battle of Mont Sorrel. Missing in action, Lemon is commemorated on the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial, Belgium. He was 39 years old.
LLOYD MORLEY ANDERSON Private Army
Oyen, Alberta
Died: Feb 22,1945
Lloyd Morley Anderson of Oyen, Alberta served with the North Nova Scotia Highlanders (RCIC) as a Private during the Second World War. On June 6, 1944, they landed in Normandy as part of the 9th Infantry Brigade and continued to fight in North-West Europe until the end of the War. Private Anderson died on February 22, 1945 and is commemorated in the Groesbeek War Cemetery in the Netherlands. He was 26 years old.
Honouring Oyen’s Great War heroes: Stories behind the names
FROM ECHO ARCHIVES
When I was about 12 years old, I remember two men coming to our farm one evening for a social visit with my father. One of those men was Floyd Horne. They were seated around the kitchen table and at one point in the conversation, Dad left the house with the other man for a short period of time. Floyd remained at the kitchen table and I joined him for a chat. To me he was always a friendly approachable man. During the next 20 minutes or so, he related some of his experiences while with the Canadian Army in France during the Great War. I was in awe that this elderly man would share this story with me. He explained in detail how he was badly wounded by an explosion during a battle and being transported to England for surgery and recuperation.
A few years ago, while reminiscing about Mr. Horne and another veteran of the Great War, Chester Tupper or Chet Tupper as he was known in the community of Oyen, I went to the web site www.collectionscanada. go.ca. I was able to obtain copies of their respective Attestation Papers. Each Paper had two pages of personal information regarding their voluntary entry into the Canadian Over-Seas Expeditionary Force. Ancestry.ca also provided good information.
The Cenotaph near the Big Country Hospital in Oyen has thirteen names from the First World War etched on it. Keeping in mind the information I had obtained, I again went to the same sites. This is what I obtained.
CLARENCE ROY COATES
Roy Coates was 25 years old when he joined the army in Medicine Hat on May 24, 1916. A farmer from Chilmark (unincorporated area southwest of Oyen), he listed his father as next of kin, also of Chilmark. Roy was single and born in Port Perry, Ontario in 1891. His physical description was 5 foot 7 ½ inches tall, a dark complexion with brown eyes and hair. He had a vaccination mark on his left arm.
Private Coates of the 31st Battalion was reported missing in action, then for official purposes was presumed to have died in the vicinity of Fresnay, France on May 3, 1917.
PERCY CYRIL DODRIDGE
Percy was born in England in 1895 and joined the army on December 3, 1915 at Oyen. He was 30 years old and his trade was farming. His religious denomination was the Church of England and he was single. He was 5 foot 7 ½ inches tall, with blue eyes and
ALFRED ERNEST HORNETT Private Army
New Brigden, Alberta
Died: March 28, 1917 Commemorated at Ecoivres Military Cemetery, France.
WILLIAM JOSEPH CICON Lance Sergeant Royal Canadian Infantry
Cereal, Alberta
Died: April 11, 1947 World War II 1939-1945
light brown hair.
Acting Corporal Dodridge of the 31st Battalion was killed in action near Fresnay, France on May 3, 1917.
WILLIAM ROBERT ERSKINE
William was a married man and a farmer. His wife’s name was Helen Lena Erskine. It is unknown if the couple had children. He joined the army April 7, 1916 at Oyen. He was born in London, England September 11, 1884. He had 5 vaccination marks on his left arm and was 5 foot 8 inches tall with a medium complexion.
Private Erskine of the 31st Battalion was killed in action at Vimy Ridge on April 9, 1917.
RICHARD CHARLES ARSCOTT FRENCH
Charles was from New Brigden and joined the army at Medicine Hat on May 20, 1916. He was born at Forquay, Devonshire, England on April 22, 1880. Charles was single and a farmer. He listed his father, Y. French as his next of kin. His father lived in Devonshire, England at the time of enlistment.
Private French of the 175 Battalion, died of pneumonia on February 20, 1919 at the No. 4 Canadian General Hospital located at Basingstoke, England. He is buried at Post Bridge Cemetery, grave #29, near Princetown, Devon, England.
WILLIAM JOHN GREEN
William joined the army on April 5, 1916. He was single at the time and listed his mother Margaret Green as his next of kin. William was 21 years old, born March 14, 1895 in Eganville, Ontario. He had grey eyes and black hair and was 5 foot 6 ½ inches tall.
Private Green of the 3rd Battalion, Canadian Machine Gun Corps, was killed in action on August 29, 1918, during an attack at Orange Hill, Monchy, France. He was buried at the Orange Hill British Cemetery, 2 ¾ miles east of Arras, France.
Star War Medal, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp, French and Germany Star, Commonwealth War Dead.
CHARLES HOLLAND
On the Canadian Virtual War Memorial (collectionscanada.ca) I located Charles Holland, who died on November 11, 1917. His remains are buried at Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial, Belgium. He was 29 years old and his service number was 183813. He was with the Alberta Regiment, 10th Battalion. He was the son of Edward Gibbs Holland and late Elizabeth, Hailsham, Sussex, England. I also located Charles Vincent Holland, who died on February 14, 1917. His remains are at Barlin Communal, Pas de
Calais, France. He was 31 years old and his service number was 782318. He was with the Alberta Regiment, 50th Battalion. He was the son of William and Sarah Holland, Fort Augustus, PEI.
GEORGE HORNETT
A farmer from New Brigden, he was 32 years old when he joined the army at Medicine Hat on May 6, 1916. He was single and born in England September 21, 1883. He was 5 foot 11 inches tall and had 3 vaccination scars on his left arm and one on his right arm. He had grey eyes and a medium complexion. His nest of kin was his mother Jane Hornett of New Brigden.
FRANCIS LEHMAN MORLEY
Francis enlisted at Oyen April 10, 1916 at the age of 23 years. He was single and listed his mother Jessie Heckmiller, of Benton, AB as next of kin. His father is listed as Charles Francis Morley, of Iowa. He was born at Shannon City, Iowa August 10, 1892. He was 5 foot 8 ½ inches with a ruddy complexion, brown eyes and light brown hair.
Private Morley of the 50th Battalion died of shrapnel wounds to the abdomen at No. 42 Casualty Clearing Station on September 4, 1918. He is buried at the Aubegny Communal Cemetery Extension, 8 ¼ miles northwest of Arras, France.
NORMAN NEIL
RUTHERFORD
Norman was born in Campbellford, Ontario, October 16, 1888 and was 27 years old when he joined the army at Oyen, December 16, 1915. He was a farmer from Acadia Valley with grey eyes, medium to dark complexion and dark brown hair.
The Calgary Daily Herald reported Mrs. A.W. Volkenburg of Calgary as his sister. Private Rutherford of the 31st Battalion was killed in action between September 24 to 30, 1916, during an attack north of Courcelette, France.
William Robert Erskine
William John Green
Normal Neil Rutherford
GEORGE HERBERT SCOTT. MC
George was a lieutenant with the Canadian Army. He was born at Keaford, Ontario December 15, 1886. His address was Oyen and he listed his wife Myrtle N. Scott as his next of kin. He was a merchant by profession and his religion was Presbyterian. George had previously been a member of a militia unit, the 21st Alberta Hussars.
Lieutenant Scott of the 31st Battalion, was awarded the Military Cross, “For conspicuous gallantry in action. He led a patrol with great skill and determination, taking an enemy post. He retained his position throughout the day under very heavy artillery fire.” , on September 10, 1916.
Lt. Scott died of wounds on September 28, 1916 at Special Hospital, Warloy. He was buried at Warloy-Baillon Communal Cemetery Extension, grave 12, plot 5, Row D, 5 miles west of Albert, France.
HENRY SCOTT
I was unable to locate confirmed information on Henry Scott, however the Canadian Virtual War Memorial lists George Henry Scott, born September 6, 1888. He was with the Alberta Regiment, 10th Battalion. His service number was 21523 and he was buried at the Menin Gate (Ypres) Memorial, Belgium.
HAROLD EDWIN STATIA
Harold was born at Streetsville, Ontario on August 9, 1894 and joined the army on September 26, 1914 at the age of 20 years. His service number was 21758. He was single and listed his mother Mrs. G.A. Statia of Orangeville, Ontario as his next of kin. He was a printer by trade and had previous military training with the 60th Rifles of Canada, a militia unit. He was 5 foot 9 ½ inches tall with a fair complexion,
FRANCIS HIGHMOOR Sergeant Royal Canadian Air Force
Empress, Alberta
Died: August 4, 1942
Commemorated at Dunure Cemetery, United Kingdom
DONALD IAN CRUICKSHANK Flying Officer Royal Canadian Air Force
Cereal, Alberta
Died: March 14, 1944
Commemorated at Singapore Memorial, Singapore
hazel eyes and light brown hair. He had a long brown birth mark on the centre of his back and a vaccination scar on the rear of his left arm.
Corporal Statia of the 4th Battalion, 1st Central Ontario Regiment, was reported missing in action, but later confirmed killed in action, on or since October 8, 1916. He is buried at the Adanac Military Cemetery, grave 30, plot 6, row B, 6 ¼ miles northeast of Albert, France.
Statia is listed on the Orangeville Ontario War Memorial, Dufferin County, Ontario.
EMERY RALPH STEEN
Emery was a farmer from Cereal. He was single and 19 years old when he joined the army at Cereal on May 12, 1916. His service number was 606909. He listed his father Thomas Steen as next of kin of Cereal. He was born October 4, 1896 at Aultsville, Ontario. He stood 5 foot 8 ¾ inches high with dark brown hair and blue eyes. He had one vaccination mark on his left arm.
Lance Corporal Steen of the 31st Battalion, Alberta Regiment, was killed in action on August 9, 1918. He was buried at the Caix British Cemetery, 8 ¼ miles northeast of Monenil, France. The remains were exhumed in 1921 and re-buried at the Caix New British Cemetery, grave 13, plot 2, row A, northeast of Monenil.
These men did not return from the Great War. It was satisfying to put a human face, as brief as it is, to each one of these fallen heroes, rather than just to look at a name on a piece of stone. These men are a part of the history of the Oyen community and this country. Lest We Forget.
WILLIAM GLENN ARMSTRONG Private Army
Buffalo, Alberta
Died: September 27, 1918
Commemorated at Haynecourt British Cemetery, France
The last letter written by Dodridge. He was killed a few days afterwards.
HMCS SASKATCHEWAN: Completed in 1935 as HMS Fortune, she was serving with the 8th Flotilla, Home Fleet when the war broke out, and took part in the Norwegian campaign and the occupation of Iceland in May, 1940. She also shared in the sinking of U 27, U 44, and the Vichy French submarine Ajax. On May 10, 1941, while escorting a Malta convoy, she was badly damaged by bombs and spent six months under repairs at Chatham, U.K. In February, 1943, following two years’ service with the Eastern Fleet, Fortune returned to the U.K. for major refit at London, and there on May 31, 1943, was transferred to the RCN as Saskatchewan. She was assigned to EG C-3, MOEF, until May, 1944, then transferred to EG 12 for invasion duties. She proceeded to Canada in August, 1944, to refit at Shelburne, N.S., returning to the U.K. in January, 1945, first as a unit of EG 14, and then of EG 11. She returned to Canada the month after VE-Day and, after employment as a troop transport, was paid off January 28, 1946, at Sydney and broken up. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
George Herbert Scott
Harold Edwin Statia
DONALD HUGH MCKAY
Flying Officer Air Force
Oyen, Alberta
Died: Sep 1,1943
Commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, England
MAURICE PIERRE MASSEY
Pilot Officer
Royal Canadian Air Force
Chinook, Alberta
Died: January 1, 1943
Commemorated at Singapore Memorial, Singapore
WILLIAM FERGUSON RIED
Pilot Officer Royal Canadian Air Force
Oyen, Alberta
Died: May 22,1944
William Ferguson Reid, born June 26, 1922 at Oyen, Alberta, completed his education at Beaver Flat School in 1937. On May 22, 1944, Pilot Officer (Air Gunner) William Ferguson Reid died while on air operations over Duisburg in the Ruhr valley in Germany. He was 21 years old. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, Air Crew Europe Star, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp, War Medal 1939-45. Commemorated at Runnymede Memorial, England
OYEN LODGE
Residents stay active with games, music, and visits
BY DIANNE SPATH
Hello Everyone, Mother Nature surprised us again, bringing that freezing rain and snow, but I guess it’s that time of year when we are going to get all kinds of surprises. The Oyen
THOMAS ALEXANDER WALKER REID Signalman Army
Oyen, Alberta
Died: Jan 17,1945
Signalman Thomas Alexander Walker Reid died of an accidental gunshot wound and is commemorated at Gradara War Cemetery, Italy. He was 22 years old. Citation(s): 1939-45 Star, Italy Star, Defence Medal, War Medal 1939-45, Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Clasp.
Lodge would like to welcome a new resident, Terry Vold. I hope everyone is getting used to the time change and the darker days.
On Monday morning there were exercises, followed by a one-on-one Scrabble game. It was a great game because we both ended up with the same score in the end, which has never happened before. In the afternoon, there was bingo.
Tuesday morning started with exercises, followed by the regular bus run downtown for shopping. Catholic Church was led by Father Rodell at 10:30. In the afternoon, the residents enjoyed their favorite ice cream, whether it was a banana split, float, or sundae. Happy Birthday to Mona Belvoir, Madeline Nichols, and Donna Hogan on November 4th.
Wednesday started with exercises, followed by a Phase Ten card game. In the afternoon, there were shuffleboard games, and then “Clothes 2 You by Jodi” was at the Lodge from 1:00–4:00. After supper, the residents were entertained by Luke, the musician from Calgary.
He does a wonderful job. His wife, Carrie, couldn’t make it this time, but they will both be entertaining at the resident Lodge Christmas party this year. Happy Birthday to Karen Opheim on November 5th.
Thursday morning was exercises, followed by horse races. #5 horse, Silver, was the top winner that day. In the afternoon, the residents played dominoes.
On Friday, from 10:00–5:00, Maximum Hearing was at the Lodge. Maximum Hearing will be back at the Lodge on November 21st from 10:00–5:00 in the family room. From 10:00–2:00, the “If the Shoe Fits” Company was at the Lodge for the residents to do their shopping for some new footwear. In the evening, there was music by the Jorgensons. Happy Birthday to Marvel Jorgenson on November 7th.
“November, the days grow short, the nights grow long, the autumn turns to winter’s song.”
“November is a month of reflection, change, and acceptance—where nature softens its colors and prepares for rest.”
Have a great week, everyone.
In Flanders Fields
Oyen Christmas Market returns with ‘Passport to Christmas’ Shop Local Contest
The Oyen & District Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its popular Christmas Market this December. Schindel Agencies will welcome the public from 5 to 8 p.m. every Thursday leading up to Christmas. Hot dogs and refreshments are compliments of the Chamber.
Local vendors and home-based businesses can reserve a table for $10 or make a donation to the food bank by contacting the Chamber at 403-664-1404. The table fee and food donations all go to the Oyen & District Food Bank. Space is limited, so early booking is encouraged.
The Chamber is also hosting its “Passport to Christmas” contest to encourage shoppers to support local businesses. Starting Monday, Dec. 1, customers can pick up a Passport at participating businesses and receive a stamp for each purchase. Once completed, Passports can be submitted for a chance to win weekly prizes every Friday in December.
There is no limit to the number of entries, so shoppers are invited to participate as often as they like.
The Chamber encourages everyone to keep their seasonal dollars in the community while enjoying the festive market and shopping locally.
OYEN HONOUR ROLL
WORLD WAR I
Private Irving J. Chapple
Private Robert Thompson Coates
Corporal Percy Cyril Dodridge
Driver Robert Erskine
Private Charles French
Private William John Green
Private Charles Holland
Private Alfred Ernest Hornett
Private Francis Lehman Morley
Private Norman Neil Rutherford
Corporal Harold Edwin Statia
Lieutenant Gerge Herbert Scott
Private Henry Scott
Lance Corporal Emery Ralph Steen
WORLD WAR II
Private Lloyd Morley Anderson
Flying Officer Harold Calven Austen
Sergeant William John Cunningham
Lieutenant David Elwyn Edwards
Sergeant Arthur William Ellis
Sergeant Arthur Leslie Evens
Flying Officer Arthur Francis Garnsey Hughes
Pilot Office Thomas Bentley Lowe
Warrant Officer Class I Fred Scott Martin
Sergeant Thomas Irving May
Private Emerson Emmet McGhee
Flying Officer Donald Hugh McKay
Flight Sergeant Homer Ejner Petersen
Classifieds
BUILDINGS FOR SALE
INTEGRITY POST FRAME BUILDINGS since 2008 BUILT WITH CONCRETE POSTS. Barns, Shops, Riding Arenas, Machine Sheds and more, sales@integritybuilt. com 1-866-974-7678 www. integritybuilt.com.
CHILD CARE
PROMOTE YOUR MESSAGE THROUGHOUT Alberta.
Alberta launches Health Shared Services
ECHO STAFF
Alberta has created Health Shared Services (HSS) to improve efficiency and coordination across the province’s health system.
The organization centralizes support functions such as IT, finance and human resources, reducing duplication and allowing health agencies to focus on patient care. HSS will work with Acute Care Alberta, Primary Care Alberta, Recovery Alberta, Assisted Living Alberta, provincial health corporations, Alberta Health Services, Covenant Health and Lamont Health.
Operating independently but in collaboration with these agencies, HSS will provide essential services, coordinate system-wide activities and ensure accountability.
Interim CEO Maureen Towle brings more than 20 years of senior government management experience. “Alberta is home to dedicated health care professionals and support staff committed to delivering world-class care,” Towle said. “I look forward to ensuring seamless patient journeys while prioritizing efficiency and effectiveness.”
HSS officially began Nov. 1, will start delivering services Dec. 1, and is expected to be fully operational by April 1, 2026.
By streamlining administrative functions and improving collaboration, Health Shared Services aims to make Alberta’s health system more efficient and better equipped to support high-quality care for all Albertans.
CLASSIFIED AD RATES (20 words or less). $10.00 plus GST. Additional words are 20¢ each. Deadline is Friday noon. 306-463-2211
The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads connect with more than 500,000 readers in the province each week. Choose from three packages beginning at $269, $299 or $599 to share your message in over 70 Weekly Community Newspapers. Contact THIS NEWSPAPER today or email classifieds@awna.com for more information. Call 1-800282-6903 or 780-434-8746 or visit www.awna.com.
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.
SERVICES
PRIVATE MORTGAGE LENDER. All real estate types considered. No credit checks done. Deal direct with lender and get quick approval. 403-543-0927; www. firstandsecondmortgages.ca.
Town of Oyen Organizational Meeting was held October 30 in the council chambers.
From left, Ann O’Connor, Keith Munro, Dustin Dick, Debbie Ross (CAO), Doug Jones (Mayor), Jack Hauck, Troy MacLean and Blake Hertz. Councillors O’Connor, Munro, Dick and MacLean are new to the council.
Town of Oyen Organizational Meeting names committee members and appointments
BY DIANA WALKER
MAYOR JONES—appointed to 11 committees, alternate on 1 — Personnel, Public Works, Acadia Foundation, Big Country Medicine Dental Clinic Board, Economic Development/Tourism, Palliser Economic Partnership, SAMDA Economic Partnership, SE Mayors & Reeves Association, Special Areas & Oyen Economic Development Corp, Henry Kroeger Regional Water Services Commission.
JACK HAUCK—appointed to 9 committees, alternate on 3—Deputy Mayor, Municipal Planning Commission (A), Personnel, Public Works, Big Country Waste Management, Economic Development/Tourism, Henry Kroeger Regional Water Services Commission, Oyen & District Golf & Country Club (A), Palliser Regional Planning (A), Special Areas & Oyen Development Corp.
BLAKE HERTZ—appointed to 6 committees, alternate on 5—Municipal Planning Commission, Personnel, Cemetery (A), Acadia Foundation (A), Airport, FCSS Board (A), Meridian Community Futures, Red Deer River Municipal User Group (A), Red Deer Watershed Alliance (A).
TROY MACLEAN—appointed to 4 committees, alternate on 1—Municipal Planning Commission, Cemetery, Marigold Library Board (A).
DUSTIN DICK—appointed to 7 committees, alternate on 1—Municipal Planning Commission, Public Works, Airport, Big Country Recycling Society, Oyen & District Water Co-op (A), Palliser Regional Municipal Planning.
KEITH MUNRO—appointed to 6 committees, alternate on 2—Big Country Medical Dental Clinic Board (A), Big Country Waste Management (A), Oyen
& District Golf & Country Club, Oyen & District Sports, Rec & Leisure, Red Deer River Municipal User Group, Red Deer Watershed Alliance.
ANN O’CONNOR—appointed to 5 committees, alternate on 2—Big Country Recycling Society (A), FCSS, Marigold Library, Meridian Community Futures (A), Oyen Municipal Library.
Mayor and all councillors appointed to Bylaw Enforcement Committee and Emergency Management Agency.
Members at Large Cemetery Committee (3-year term): Kim Walker, Pam Stark, John VanOtterloo, Debbie Kovitch, Perry Allen, James Walker, Marily Lehman.
Airport Committee (3-year term): Randy Lee, Daryl Peers, Jennifer Musgrove-Maines, Jason Birchmore.
Big Country Recycling Society (3year term): Manfred Schroeder, Diana Walker.
FCSS Board (3-year term): Rhonda Evens, Curtis Smit, Rachel Booker, Aaron Skappak, Heather Norris.
Oyen & District Sports, Red. & Leisure: Jenna Skappak, Erika Tessier, Joe Lazzarai, Bud Herbert, Jessica Bailey, Aaron Rude, Trent Caskey, Wyatt Girletz, Drew Kuhn.
Oyen Municipal Library: Kristie Snell, Tracy Hudson, Terry Pearen, Betty Walker, Heather White, Tanya Jaques. Palliser Economic Partnership and SAMDA Economic Partnership: CAO Other Appointments
Development Officer, FOIP Coordinator, License Inspector, Deputy Director Emergency Management: CAO.
Director Emergency Management: Paul Lijdsman
Deputy DEM: Kurtis McBain
Fire Chief: Shaune Kovitch
VIVA VITALITY
Wartime rationing inspired nutrition tips
BY PAT MACINTOSH
As Remembrance Day approaches, many Canadians are preparing to honour the sacrifices made by those who served in times of war. However, I have also been thinking about the less-known aspect of wartime rationing. During both the First and Second World Wars, the Canadian government brought in food rationing to support the war effort and ensure fair distribution of limited food supplies. Families received a ‘ration book’ with coupons that were traded for items such as sugar, eggs, meat, butter, cheese, and coffee. Food rationing forced people to get creative with cooking and many of those practices continue today.
Here are my top five rationing-inspired tips.
1. Source local. During the war, Victory Gardens were encouraged so families could grow their own vegetables and fruits in backyards and public parks. Growing or buying local still helps ensure freshness and can lower cost.
2. Stretch ingredients with smart substitutes. Use mashed bananas or fruit sauces instead of eggs and powdered or canned milk instead of fresh milk. Fruit sauces or dried fruit such as raisins can also help sweeten desserts using less added sugar.
3. Embrace plant-based proteins. Canned or dried beans, chickpeas and lentils are easy, low-cost meat substitutes. You can use them in-
stead of meat in soups and casseroles or to stretch the meat in sauces and chili. As an added bonus, plant-based proteins are also high in fibre and low in saturated fat.
4. Reduce food waste. Adopt a ‘waste not, want not’ approach by using leftovers for lunch tomorrow. Find new uses for things that are often thrown away such as using vegetable peels or meat bones for soups. Use dried bread to make bread puddings or croutons or crush it to make your own bread crumbs.
5. Cook from scratch. Adapt recipes to cook with fewer ingredients. Make meals simple and hearty rather than fancy. Stews and soups that make use of tougher cuts of meat can be stretched for many meals. Less processed meats such as whole chickens, pork loins and roasts are often lower cost as you have to cut and prepare them yourself. Less processed foods also tend to be lower in salt, sugar and saturated fat which is good for your health.
This Remembrance Day, as we pause to remember those who served, let’s reflect on how we can each do our part to make food systems more affordable and sustainable. You can find more information on buying local, adapting recipes, reducing food waste and cooking at home at unlockfood.ca.
Pat MacIntosh is a Registered Dietitian with Alberta Health Services, Nutrition Services.
Savanna Tye won $40,000 in the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #208 Cash Raffle on Oct. 18, 2025. Other winners included Brad Slorstad, $2,500; five $1,000 winners — Dave Chudyk, Ryan Niwa, Richard Woods, Walt Scarff, and Marilyn Lehman; and five $500 winners — Koen Anderson, Ken Mick, Dean Loran, Denis Lemare, and Taylor Peers. All tickets were sold, and funds raised will go toward building upgrades. SUBMITTED
Charles Thomas Smale Canadian Armed Forces Born October 31, 1906 • Died 1987
Albert Edward Smale Canadian Armed Services May 22, 1902 - December 15, 1940
Howard Leonard Smale Royal Canadian Air Force August 13, 1921 - August 13, 1976
Sgt. Eileen Finley Roberts
Delbert MacLean Born on October 16, 1922 in Alsask, Saskatchewan. Married June 15, 1945. Passed away on March 17, 2010
Art Chaplin Royal Canadian Air Force World War II
Jacob Hauck Canadian Armed Forces • L609117 Born January 9, 1916 (in Burstall, SK) Died 1993 • Called to army in 1942 and return to the farm at Oyen 1946. He didn’t leave Canada but was stationed on the West Coast to watch for ships that didn’t belong in Canadian waters. The family believes he was in Prince Rupert, BC
Bob Lewison
Floyd Bishop 1918
Ollie and Russell Sigman joined up and served overseas in the first World War.
Pte. Gordon Berg
Museum Musings
BY LOIS BEDWELL
What a great summer 2025 was!
Our three summer students were kept very busy. The museum hosted the Studio 9 & 41 Art Show during July and August. Stay tuned for details on the return of Studio 9 & 41 to the church. There may also be a quilt display.
Lorraine also set up her infamous Scavenger Hunt, which drew more than 100 participants. I’m looking forward to seeing what she comes up with next year.
Another highlight of the season was partnering with the Oyen Lions Club and FCSS for Canada Day celebrations. A great time was had by all, and we hope to do this again next year.
On the project front, we seeded a new lawn in front of Benton Hall, poured a new sidewalk from the office to the hall, and installed a cement ramp for better ac-
cess to the church. We also rearranged displays in the Quonset to make room for the “new-to-us” Model T from Ralph and Rita Wold. The students painted the Cook car and the Blacksmith shop.
We appreciate the financial assistance from the Town of Oyen and their help with cutting the grass. A decision was made to paint the interior of the Hoenig House. The Oyen Kinettes last painted it in the 1970s, so it was due. Stef Marlowe is doing the painting, which will be completed next year.
We will be applying for 2026 CSJ funding and are looking for an adult interested in supervising the students. Hours and wages are negotiable.
Believe it or not, there is a lot to do at the museum— cataloguing, archiving, displays, programming, just to name a few.
Contact Lorraine Guckert or Lois Bedwell if this sounds like something you would be interested in. See you next summer!
Smith announces opening of Abu Dhabi office to boost trade
ECHO STAFF
Alberta has opened a new international office in Abu Dhabi to strengthen trade and investment ties in one of the world’s most dynamic energy regions.
Premier Danielle Smith announced the office during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) 2025. She said it will help Alberta companies access markets across the Middle East and North Africa while attracting investment to support growth at home.
“By opening our office in Abu Dhabi, we’re positioning Alberta at the heart of a region that leads in energy, innovation and investment,” Smith said.
The office, located in the Canadian Embassy, will focus on partnerships in energy, agriculture, manufacturing and emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and data analytics. Abu Dhabi was chosen as a gateway to global trade and a hub for energy, logistics and technology.
Alberta has maintained international offices for more than 50 years, including in Japan, China, South Korea, the U.K., Mexico, the U.S., India and Singapore. The Abu Dhabi office is the 18th worldwide.
Quick facts:
• Alberta’s exports to the Middle East reached $700.8 million in 2024.
• Top exports: manufactured goods ($400.1M) and wheat ($257.9M).
• The UAE and Saudi Arabia are Alberta’s largest Middle East markets.
Mobile mammography service coming to Oyen
OYEN — The Screen Test program will visit Oyen in December, offering free breast cancer screening for eligible individuals aged 45 to 74.
A mobile mammography trailer will be at Big Country Hospital, 312 3rd Street E, on Dec. 3 and 4. Appointments are required. Call 1-800-667-0604 to book or for more information.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Screening mammograms are the most effective way to detect breast cancer early, when treatment may be more successful. Regular screening can save lives.
More information about breast cancer screening and who is eligible can be found by visiting https:// screeningforlife.ca/breast/get-screened/#who_ should_get_screened.
Visit https://screeningforlife.ca/breast/screentest-mobile-clinics/ for more information and a complete listing of communities that the Screen Test mobile visits.Screen Test improves access to cancer screening in Alberta communities where mammography services are limited. Screening is also available at select radiology clinics and some hospitals. Individuals aged 45 to 74 are encouraged to discuss their breast cancer risk with a healthcare provider to determine the best screening option.
Primary Care Alberta supports this initiative as part of its province-wide effort to improve access to primary care. By coordinating services across communities, Primary Care Alberta helps healthcare providers focus on patient care, promoting prevention and supporting lifelong health.
Province proposes legislation to strengthen early reading, math support
Alberta’s government is proposing amendments to the Education Act to help schools identify and support students with complex learning needs in reading and math.
The changes would require school boards and independent early childhood services operators to screen all students from kindergarten to Grade 3, share results with parents, and provide data to the Ministry of Education and Childcare.
“Alberta’s classrooms are more complex than ever, and our teachers need the right tools to support every student,” said Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education and Childcare. “Early screenings will help ensure children with diverse needs get the help they need to thrive.”
Screenings are short assessments of reading and math skills that help schools identify students needing extra support before gaps grow. Data from the screenings will also guide provincewide efforts to respond to classroom complexity.
If passed, the legislation would take effect in the 2026-27 school year and apply to all public, separate, francophone, charter and accredited independent schools, as well as independent ECS operators. Budget 2025 includes $11 million to support math and reading instruction, rising to $15 million by 2027-28.
Since 2021, Alberta has invested $92.5 million to strengthen foundational reading and math skills.
ECHO STAFF
Premier Danielle Smith provides remarks at the Canadian Business Council Abu Dhabi/Canada reception.
The revenge of the vending machines
Even though we’ve all used them at one time or another, vending machines are the “Rodney Dangerfield” of the machine world — they get no respect. We take them for granted when they work and take our frustrations out on them when they don’t. And when a vending machine withholds a snack that was paid for, I’ve seen it take more hits from a customer than a boxer in a championship bout.
Remembering When
By Keith Schell
It was only a matter of time before these machines, tired of the abuse they take, found a way to get back at us. To paraphrase a famous movie line: the vending machines are getting “mad as heck, and they’re not going to take it anymore!”
I have a feeling that all the vending machines in the world communicate with each other. They share information about the people who treat them poorly. And once the word is out, those people face endless problems trying to get their snacks from any vending
West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre
Free and Confidential Counselling Services
Programs:
• Mental Health & Addictions
• Family Support (FSW) & Diversion Support
• Family Violence Intervention (FVI)
• Rapid Access Counselling (RAC) for Children Youth/Caregivers
• Rapid Access for Counselling (RAC) for Adults
• Crisis Intervention & Debriefing
• Suicide Intervention & Suicide Impact Supports
• Sexual Assault Victim Support
• Trafficking Intervention
• Family Intervention Rapid Support Teams (FIRST)
• Client Advocacy
• Intimate Partner Violence Intervention
• Court Mandated Supports
The West Central Crisis & Family Support Centre’s mission is to provide support services to individuals and families experiencing trauma, violence, addiction, or crisis in their lives, as well as outreach programs to communities within our boundaries.
105 Colton Drive, Box 2235, Kindersley, SK. S0L1S0 Office Phone: 306.463.6655
Fax: 306.463.6410 crisis@westcentralcrisis.ca www.westcentralcrisis.ca
machine after that.
But the more the vending machines withhold products out of spite, the more abuse they begin to take — especially in the workplace. It’s kind of a vicious circle.
One Monday morning at work, I went to the cafeteria for breakfast. Our plant was large enough to have a full-service cafeteria that served breakfast and lunch to employees during weekday shifts. It also had a row of snack machines and an old plunger-style cigarette machine to serve both the day and night shift employees at their convenience.
I was one of the first to enter the cafeteria that morning and was greeted by a shocking sight: the tempered-glass face of one of the snack vending machines had been vandalized.
Apparently, someone on the weekend night shift didn’t get their snack and, in a fit of sleep-deprived rage, struck the tempered-glass face. While it held in place, the safety glass fractured into a million tiny pieces. Realizing what he had done, I have no doubt the perpetrator vacated the cafeteria in a big hurry. Discovering the damage on the day shift, the food services company was not amused when they billed the plant to replace the glass.
Another time, during a break on the graveyard shift in the middle of the night, a co-worker wanted a pack of cigarettes from the old-style cigarette machine. He put his money in, pulled the plunger and received … nothing.
Enraged, he began attacking the machine — punching and kicking it before turning it on its side and beating on it some more. But like a stubborn prisoner resisting a physical interrogation, the cigarette machine refused to give up anything.
Even more enraged, the worker enlisted another person to help him pick up the machine and turn it completely upside down. They began to shake it vig-
orously, much to the amusement of the handful of other people in the cafeteria.
Finally, the upside-down cigarette machine relented and spat out a pack of cigarettes. They weren’t the brand the guy wanted, but at that point, he didn’t care — he just wanted his nicotine fix. Once he saw the pack hit the floor, his attack finally ceased. After picking up his cigarettes, he and his buddy turned the cigarette machine right-side up again and ever so gently set it back into place.
With all the abuse that vending machines endure, the only way they can get back at their abusers is by withholding products. We had a temperamental coffee machine in our cafeteria that, if it didn’t like you, would sometimes dispense the coffee first and then drop the cup afterward. And some nights, it didn’t like a lot of people.
And how often does your bag of chips or candy bar get stuck in a vending machine, refusing to drop down to the retrieval slot? The machine’s attitude might be: “You were mean to me last time, so this time you can’t have your snack. But if the next person is really nice to me, they can have two snacks for the price of one!”
And if your snack finally does fall into the retrieval slot, the machine might wait until you put your hand in to grab it and then slam the door down on your hand. Vengeance is mine, sayeth the vending machine — they take their revenge wherever they can.
So, the next time you don’t get your snack from a vending machine, maybe there’s a reason. Perhaps the last machine you mistreated spread the word, and now they’re all conspiring to withhold your snacks as payback. Not that I’m a conspiracy theorist, but sometimes you have to wonder.
To all the people out there who have trouble getting their snacks from vending machines: maybe try being nice to your vending machines, and maybe they’ll be nice back to you as well.
Peter Lundy, new owner of Zac’s Mobile Home Park, helped the Oyen & District Chamber of Commerce replace Christmas lights in Clock Tower Park. The Chamber will host a “Light Up the Park” event Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, alongside the Christmas Market at Schindel Agencies, with free hot dogs and hot chocolate.
community. PHOTO BY CHARMAIN SNELL
Loving yourself through the tough times
BY ANGELA CLEMENT
There are times when I would rather be miserable. It’s like sometimes misery just feels right. LOL! Yup I just wrote that. Sometimes it seems there is nothing that could take me out of my misery and I don’t want it to. I don’t think this is the way to live but I have noticed this about myself from time to time and I don’t think I’m alone in it. I think more people feel this way than care to admit. So if you can relate, hear me out.
I do consider myself a pretty positive person overall. I have been through challenge and it seems I have always found a way to the other side of it. I rally when things get tough and I can find the bright side of any story. Yet when life gets me down sometimes it’s a deep hole and the thought of crawling myself out just seems too much. In fact someone could be reaching their hand out and I would consider not taking it. It’s a tough place to be.
So what is this? Well I think it’s just wanting to be seen and heard. It’s like here I am. Do you see me? All of me? I’m suffering and I am sacrificing and no one gets it. I don’t have any idea how I could explain it either. We can wish and hope but actually people aren’t going to get it if they aren’t living it. They are going to tell you to stay more positive, get over it, move on. They will make suggestions about what you should do. Eat right, get your sleep, say positive affirmations. Not that these are bad suggestions but sometimes it can seem just too difficult to do when you are in this state. And worse, some will just abandon you completely. It can be a really lonely space. Even when you are with someone who loves you dearly you can feel alone. Moving out of this space isn’t easy but it’s possible
Remembrance Day
Battle River-Crowfoot MP
As we prepare to mark Remembrance Day, we reflect on our debt of gratitude to those who fought for Canada at sea, on land and in the air.
and so worth it. It comes from loving yourself, being patient with yourself and giving yourself grace. It comes from taking steps to be there for you the way no one else can. It’s about taking control of your own life and finding the things you love to do and expressing all those thoughts, feelings and emotions through those outlets. That might mean walking and connecting with nature, painting, drawing, dancing, exercising, cooking. These are often things we loved to do as kids. The pain you feel can be transformed through those outlets. It takes time. Do something little that you love every day. Find something that can make you smile even for a brief moment and know that you are not alone.
Don’t be afraid to share how you feel with those above and beyond who are listening and see all of you for who you are. Only they truly know what you have been through and what you are going through. They hear you and they are guiding you. Be open to that guidance. It may take some time but rest assured it will come and you are heard. Stay open to magical things that are just around the corner. We never know what kind of surprise awaits us. Don’t try to imagine how it will happen. Just feel into what it will be like when it does. This is manifesting and it is so powerful. You got this! You were made for hard things and this too shall pass. Take care of you! Joy is on the other side. Lots of love, Angela.
In our nation’s capital, I am always proud to represent the outstanding men and women of CFB Wainwright, along with serving and former CAF personnel from across this incredible riding. Veterans’ Week gives us a chance to appreciate and honour these brave Canadians, whose dedication to Canada did not end when they took off the uniform. Parents and grandparents, first-responders and business owners - valued leaders in our society, for whom the military was just one of the ways they served.
We think of the thousands of Albertans who returned from the World Wars and built the prosperous, safe and free province that so many of us love and remember. Their legacy can be found today on family farms and storefronts across our communities, and in veterans of our own time who embody that same entrepreneurial spirit.
As Member of Parliament for Battle River-Crowfoot and Leader of His Majesty’s Loyal Opposition, I want to thank our incredible veterans for everything they’ve done for Canada: both abroad and at home. May we be inspired by their example to build a better country for all.
Lest we forget.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column, you are encouraged to write Pierre at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, or e-mail pierre.poilievre@parl.gc.ca. If you are in need of assistance regarding a Federal Government program, or need assistance and don’t know where to turn, feel free to reach out to MP Poilievre’s office.
Angela Clement
PIERRE POILIEVRE
Pierre Poilievre
ALSASK
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16
• Alsask Lioness Christmas Craft and Trade Show 1:00-4:00 PM at the Alsask Community Hall. Admission: $5.00. Door prizes, coffee, tea, dessert and shopping!
CEREAL
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
• Cereal Turkey Supper & Christmas Market. Market 4:00-8:00 PM. Supper 5:30-7:30 PM. Visit from Santa 6:007:30 PM. All at the CJ Peacock Centre.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25
•Save the Date! 2025 Ham & Turkey Bingo.
- Monday Night Bingo (except holidays) at the CJ Peacock Centre. Doors & Concession open at 6:30 PM. Bingo starts at 7:30 PM
- 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
- Empress & District Fine Arts, Culture and Leisure Society Craft Mondays 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 Crib Wednesdays 7:00 PM at Empress Community Hall. $5 entry fee. $1 for each hand scoring 19 goes into the loonie pot. All monies will be paid out at end of evening. Great opportunity to see old friends and make some new ones.
- 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, NOVEMBER 13
• Singers Wanted: Community Choir 7:00 PM in the Missionary Church. Performing at the Tree of Remembrance November 22.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 25
• 50+ Crafting and Socializing 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM at the Oyen Seniors Rec Centre. Stay or drop-in. Bring your own project and lunch if needed. For info or to RSVP contact Cheryl Getz at 403664-8688.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
• Regular Council Meeting 6:30 PM in Council Chambers, Town Office. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Your presence and engagement help shape the future of our community.
• Singers Wanted: Community Choir 7:00 PM in the Missionary Church. Performing at the Tree of Remembrance November 22.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21
• Fun Night for members and their guests at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre 7:00 PM to midnight. Games and Socializing. BYOB and snacks. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403-6642462 for more information.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29
• Oyen United Church will be hosting a Bake Table at the Christmas Farmers Market. Donations of baking would be very much appreciated. Convener: Jessie Battrum 403-664-2515.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
• Oyen and District Seniors Association
in collaboration with a Minor Hockey Team are Hosting their annual Christmas Banquet at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre at 6:00PM. Tickets $25. Tickets must be purchased in ADVANCE from Jessie Battrum 403664-2515 as no cash received at door.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7
• Regular Pot Luck and Meeting for Oyen and District Seniors (50+) at Oyen and District Seniors Recreation Centre. Pot Luck at 6:00 PM. Meeting at 7:00 PM. New Members Welcome. Call Lynda 403-664-0908 or Beth 403-664-2462 for more information.
- Oyen Town Council meet 2nd Thursday of every month 6:30 PM in Council Chambers.
- Community Choir every Wednesday at 7:00 PM in the Evangelical Missionary Church.
- Oyen United Church Coffee Time every Tuesday at 10:00 AM. All are welcome! - Oyen FCSS Community Centre Playgroup every Monday 9:30 - 11 AM at the Centre. Activities include: Storytime, Arts and Crafts, Free Play. Contact us! 403664-2255
YOUNGSTOWN
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20
• Presenting the Annual Friends of the Youngstown Library “Youngstown Christmas Mini-Fair” 3:00-7:00 PM Youngstown Community Hall. Variety of crafts and home-based business products, Christmas hamper raffle, Santa photos available, Beef-on-a-Bun Supper by Dryland Multi 4H Club. For more information or to book a table, contact Renee at 403-857-8322. Come experience fun, stress-free Christmas shopping with a small town atmosphere.