The Oyen Echo - November 1, 2023

Photo by Mike Copeman 2000

The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department along with other fire departments took part in the 1051 Wildland Firefighting course. PHOTO BY SABRINA GREGORCHUK

Military jerseys on display in Hanna

BY JOAN JANZEN

During the latter part of October until after Remembrance Day, patrons of Freson Bros. Grocery Store in Hanna can view a large display of hockey jerseys commemorating Veterans Day. The jerseys are just a portion of the 140 military jerseys belonging to Hanna resident Dean Viste.

Don Boos, Store Manager, said he’s honoured to display 48 of the military hockey jerseys. “Here is a visible reminder of the sacrifices that our veterans made, so we never forget,” he said. Each jersey has a poppy sewn on it to commemorate Veterans Day.

Viste has accumulated a total collection of 1250 jerseys. He started collecting back in the mid-1980s, but it wasn’t until 2008 that he began acquiring the military jerseys.

“Teams offered those in 2005, but not every team does it,” Dean explained. “Mostly junior teams from the Canadian Hockey League do it. Some do it one year, then do another one two years later.”

Since 2008, the host team in game one wears a jersey that’s dedicated to the military, mostly from their area, he said. “It’s the largest collection of its kind in Canada; I don’t think anyone would have more. There’s only two of us with the whole collection in Canada. The oldest one in my collection is from 1946.”

The 1946 jersey is a red and green British Empire Services League wool sweater. Later, the name was changed to the Canadian Legion. Soldiers returning from

The green and red jersey is the oldest jersey in Dean Viste’s collection. It is a 1946 British Empire Services League jersey; soldiers returning from WWII played in this league in Ontario.

WWII played in this league in Ontario.

The jerseys come up for auction beginning November 5th, which is why Dean describes November as a “bad budget month” because the jerseys “come with a fee.” There’s still about a half dozen jerseys that Dean would like to add to his collection.

Throughout the year, his collection of 1250 jerseys hang in closets in his home and his personal man cave. Fortunately, Dean’s wife is also an avid hockey fan. “She wouldn’t put up with all those jerseys in the house if she wasn’t,” he reasoned.

the first

collection of jerseys

in

Today the collection consists of 140 jerseys.

The first time a portion of his Military Jerseys saw the light of day was in 2016 at the Red Deer Memorial Cup hosted by the Red Deer Rebels, when thousands of people saw the thirty jerseys which were on display. “They had security there, so I said let’s do it,” he said. The collection is near and dear to Dean’s heart.

This is the second year Freson Bros. Grocery Store is displaying fifty of the military jerseys. “At the end of the day, it went over quite well,” Dean said about last year’s display, which was put up for a period of two weeks. “This year, we’ll put it up for three weeks.” Each year, the store displays a different selection of jerseys, which is available for patrons to review until shortly after Remembrance Day. Dean described it as a “very fitting tribute.” Local Legion members whose parents fought in WWII are quite happy with the jersey collection. He grew up in Hanna and acknowledges that many from that area went to WWI and WWII. “There’s lots in this area that have earned that tribute. It’s hockey giving back, that’s totally what it is,” he concluded.

Author writes about growing up at Hanna

Lorna Stuber will be her book ‘Nut Bags and Num-Nums’ at the Hanna Municipal Library on November 7th. The book is filled with funny and poignant stories about her years of growing up in the community of Hanna. SUBMITTED

BY JOAN JANZEN

Lorna Stuber, who grew up ten miles from Hanna, Alberta, is launching her book “Nut Bags and Num-Nums” at the Hanna Municipal Library on November 7th. Lorna was inspired to write the book when a friend asked when she was going to write about growing up in Hanna?

“In the past, I had jokingly told some of my friends from high school that I should write about those days since I had some funny stories to tell,” Lorna said. “When I took some time to think about it, I thought it could be entertaining.”

The author says she desires her writing to both entertain and inspire her readers. After much consideration, she decided to relay humorous as well as poignant stories from her first eighteen years in Hanna. She wanted to honour her roots, which include the farmers and ranchers in rural Alberta.

She credits the influence of the generous, helpful, hard-working and humorous people in her family and community who helped make her the person she is today. “Those people represent the spirit of rural people in all of Western Canada,” she said.

Anyone who grew up in rural western Canada in the 1970s and later will relate to the stories in ‘Nut Bags and Num-Nums.’ “I hope people will get a few laughs, but I also hope they are inspired to reflect on their own life experiences and the events and people who impacted them,” Lorna said.

However, she also hopes to bring public awareness to the challenges faced by farmers and ranchers as they set out to make a living for themselves and also bring food to the tables of Canadians. “These people can never get enough recognition,” she noted. She emphasized the importance of values kids learn by taking care of animals, helping grow plants, and being sur-

rounded by hard-working people who hold traditional values.

“The sense of community in a rural area is different than the feel of a community in a big city,” stated Lorna, who now resides in Okotoks, Alberta. She said folks in rural communities support one another, an attribute which is worth recognition.

“I was 17 when I left Hanna. I’m now 54 and am welcomed whenever I come back to town,” she said.

Lorna will be coming back to Hanna on November 7th, when she will launch her new book at the Hanna Municipal Library. “I will be speaking and reading a few excerpts from my book,” she said. This will be followed by a question and answer time, after which Lorna will be happy to sign books which will be available to purchase and chat with people from her old stomping grounds.

“I look forward to seeing everyone!” Lorna said.

Dean Viste’s

commemorating Veterans Day were displayed for

time

2016 at the Red Deer Memorial Cup. Patrons at Freson Bros. Grocery Store in Hanna can view fifty of the jerseys which are on display.

Family Violence Prevention Month #WhereToTurn

Alberta has the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces, yet family violence is preventable. November is Family Violence Prevention Month (FVPM) in Alberta. It is a time to increase awareness of the warning signs of family violence and the resources and supports available so we can work together to end family violence and build healthier relationships in our communities.

By engaging in education and open dialogue, we break the barriers of silence and stigma, encouraging individuals to speak out and seek help. Let this week be a reminder that love is not synonymous

with pain, that respect is the foundation of every healthy relationship, and that our kindness can shatter the walls of silence. Together, let us create a world where every family can thrive, where every child grows up feeling safe, and where every individual is

empowered to break free from the chains of violence.

To promote awarenhess, Hanna FCSS implements the Red Rose Campaign. A red rose is delivered to businesses throughout Hanna in memory of women, children and men in Alberta who have died as victims of family violence. Hanna businesses are asked to show their support by displaying this rose in a prominent location for the entire month of November.

Pace Solar Project - public info

PACE Canada will be holding a Public Information session: Sat Nov 18, 12:00 to 2:00 pm

Board and commmittees recruit Joining a board or committee in your town presents an opportunity to shape the future. Your unique ideas and perspective could be the driving force that creates positive change to better our community.

TOH boards that are currently recruiting include: Municipal Planning (deadline Nov 15)

Community Services Board

Library Board

Submit your form today by visiting:

hanna.ca/forms

Fun at the Library:

Nov 7: Early Tuesday Matinee - 3:00 pm

Nov 7: Author Presentation- 7:00 pm Nov 9: Book Club - 2:00 pm

Nov 1-3 Apex Utilities Phase II

Apex Utilities (formerly AltaGas) has informed the Town of Hanna that Neuterra Ventures Inc will be starting Phase II of the 2-phase valve and gas line replacement project, Some alleys in town will be temporarily impacted by the use of heavy equipment and construction workers

Area 1: Nov 1-3

Area 2: Nov 4-12

Area 5: Nov 13-17

Things to Note:

Alley access WILL be restricted and very possibly BLOCKED during this time. Work is broken and scheduled by Area, the same as Phase 1.

There are 6 different Areas that will be impacted.

You will notice various locating companies and vehicles prior.

There will be no loss of service

Stay Informed:

Sign up for the Town e-newsletter. The signup is found at the bottom of every page on our website. If you need assistance, contact the Town Office.

Visit hanna.ca/news to read the most current notice.

Sign up for SMS Notifications at The Town text message notification system MAY be used.

Check your front door for correspondence from Neuterra.

Pumpkin Parade 6 pm at Hector King-Hunter Park

Narcotics Anonymous

Parent and Tot Skating 10:30 am

Drop In Hockey 12:00 pm

Public Skating 6:30 pm

Richdale Fall Community Dance 7:00 pm

Craigmyle Pancake Breakfast 9:00 am

Ladies Drop-In Hockey 4:00 pm

Public Skating 5:30 pm

Parent and Tot Skating 10:30 am

Drop in Hockey 12:00 pm

Early Tuesday Matinee Library 3:00 pm

Parent and Tot Skating 10:30 am

Drop in Hockey 12:00 pm

Book Club 2:00 pm

OPINION: Exchanging ideas determines truth

BY JOAN JANZEN

The sign said: “When one door closes, another one opens. Other than that, it’s a pretty good car.” Not only was it a witty sign for a used car dealership, but it’s an excellent example of how important it is to read beyond the first line or headline.

Something that Canadians should be aware of is Canada’s Justice Minister has promised to introduce “online harms” legislation “as soon as possible,” according to a report by Lifesite News.

Andrew Lawton from True North noted the government’s definition of hate speech was informed by a Supreme Court decision from some years ago. Lawton read a line from that particular Supreme Court Decision which said, “Truthful statements can be presented in a manner that meet the definition of hate speech and not all truthful statements must be free from restriction.”

“That is a very dangerous line that the government is embedding in its ap-

proach to freedom of expression,” he suggested. The online harms bill has yet to be seen, but we have seen former versions of it.

Lawton interviewed John Carpe, President of the Justice Centre for Constitutional Freedoms and asked him what he thought about the introduction of “online harms” legislation.

“It sounds like a step in the wrong direction. It’s already illegal to willfully promote hatred online or otherwise,”

John said. “What I see here is the government stepping toward a repressive regime.”

The term may sound extreme, but he noted the one thing repressive regimes have in common is they all censor, with the government determining what is true or false, good or evil, right or wrong. “Politicians never violate your rights and freedoms without offering some pretext - fighting some cause.”

In this case, they are fighting for the cause of avoiding “online harms”; however, what else is at stake? John suggested such legislation would take away the

100-year-old veteran remembers the fallen

Dear Editor,

I lost my right arm on October 18, 1944, while serving with the Loyal Edmonton Regiment in Italy. I was staked at a farmhouse that had a children’s treehouse located nearby. In the treehouse was a sniper who kept shooting at our boys. A tank then came which shot out shells, the shrapnel hitting my right arm.

When I returned home from the war, I joined The War Amps and have been a member ever since.

This Association was started by First World War amputee veterans to help each other adapt to their new reality as amputees.

Having just recently turned 100, I am reflecting this Remembrance Day upon all those who served in my regiment and never returned home. Their absence weighs on me and it is essential that we keep their memory alive. I take comfort in knowing that The War Amps and its young members will continue to keep spreading the message long into the future.

The sacrifices of those who served (and continue to serve) deserve to be remembered and honoured. Each Remembrance Day serves as a poignant reminder of the tremendous price paid by these brave individuals. Their selflessness and courage continue to resonate, and it is our duty to ensure that their legacy endures.

Letter to the Editor Policy

right of Canadians to have full access to information and diversity of viewpoints. So why is it important to have access to a diversity of viewpoints?

Lawton responded by suggesting it’s only through the exchange of conflicts that we can interrogate and find out what is the truth.

John agreed, saying, “We don’t even know what’s false until after we have a debate. The criminal code of Canada says expressly that truth is a defense. Sounds like it’s not going to be a defense when human rights bodies get involved.”

The proposed legislation would make the Canadian Human Rights Commission the arbiter of what can and cannot be said.

“The government should not be in the business of determining historical truth or falsehood; it’s not the role of the state. Once you have the government doing that on one issue, it grows like a cancer,” John observed.

Nevertheless, some groups desire legislation to regulate and punish websites and new emerging platforms. As a lawyer, John explained, “If we go down this road, instead of engaging in debate and making your case, you’re going to see more and more groups lining up, trying to get the government to shut up their opponents. And that’s fascism in practice.”

Lawton said that even if you fundamentally agree to limit hateful speech lower than the current threshold, the

logical question is: who do you trust to be the authority to make that determination? Do you trust the government to define what is good or evil, true or false?

The next step in the process would be the imposition of penalties for expressing different opinions. If this concerns you, feel free to contact your MP and Senators to speak out against this proposed censorship.

Throughout the past decade, we’ve seen reports broadcasted by all the major news outlets which turned out to be completely false. Those reports were not censored. Yet when they were proven to be false, the actual truth was not well publicized.

We are engaged in a massive information war, where headlines can be deceptive, designed to get your attention rather than present facts. While it’s advisable to not allow what you hear on the news to trouble you, you also need to be careful that no one deceives you. May the peace of God that transcends all understanding guard your heart and mind as you navigate through all the information we receive daily.

At the end of the day, wouldn’t you prefer to have unlimited access to information, do your own thinking and come to your own conclusions rather than having the government determine what content is “safe” for your consumption? It’s in the exchanging of ideas that truth is determined.

Lloyd Brown, 100 Member of

The War Amps

We welcome the opinions of our readers in the form of letters to the editor, as long as submissions do not include: • Profanity, vulgarity and/or obscenities • Slurs and/or personal attacks • Misinformation We reserve sole discretion to decide whether or not a reader submission will be published. We will not publish anonymous submissions or letters containing personal attacks. We reserve the right to edit or refuse all letters.

KATE WINQUIST Publisher/Photographer ROBERT WINQUIST Circulation JOAN JANZEN Journalist

HARLAND LESYK Sales Manager PATTI MORAN Production GREG PAULHUS Web/Social Media

MISTY HART Freelance Photographer

Second World War amputee veteran Lloyd Brown in 1943 and today.

JOAN JANZEN Journalist

Pop89: I’m counting On Grace

BY MADONNA HAMEL

I miss our church and the odd little congregation that made it up. We’ve been closed for a while now. I can see the steeple from my back window. It used to light up at night, glowing suspended in the dark night sky, giving off a reassuring blue glow, the same blue often associated with Jesus’ mom.

It may not be politically cool for me to long for a glowing cross in the sky these days, given the horrific history of treachery visited upon indigenous people by religious zealots in the formative years of this country. But I have always found comfort in crosses: The mother-of-pearl one hanging in our house, the large crucifix bearing the body of a mortally wounded Christ in the chapel of my childhood years (that crucifix began swinging back and forth once during a minor earthquake in our town), and another lit cross on the banks of Donnaconna. The cross replaces the one Champlain erected to thank St. Anne, patron of ocean voyages, for getting him safely across the Atlantic. His men were dying of scurvy until the local Huron showed them how to boil cedar boughs into tea. You can still get a cup of that tea at the Donnaconna Visitor’s Centre. I lived behind it and would often walk over and down a paper cup full whenever I caught a cold. (Thank you and Merci to my Huron ancestors!)

As I write this, I am looking out over my brother’s garden: twenty raised beds spilling over with squashes of all kinds, carrots, beets, kale, herbs and fallen apples. I am back on Cortes Island, and everything is still vibrant evergreen with interspercings of flaming red and yellow of maples. We are doing what we can to prepare for winter. My brother has made progress after his stroke, but some things will never change. And some will never return. And the daily, momentary struggle and letting go of an old life is an ongoing chore that takes precedence. My brother is my teacher now. I listen; I try not to use insulting, placating clichés empty of meaning. I pray a lot. We both do. On the drive to Nanaimo for more meetings with the neurosurgeon and the occupational therapist, we recite the rosary, just like we did when we were a young family on road trips. We cling to the ornate wee crucifixes on the tip of the lasso of beads.

We talk about the whole cultural shift away from practicing religious traditions that focus not on “getting” but “offering up” to secular habits of constructing tailor-made individual consolations concerned with temporal, material compensations. My brother and I can work up a good rant when we get on this subject. But it’s a worthy awareness - the realization that an obsession with “getting mine,” “getting recognition,” and “getting even” is a painful posture toward life. Resentment and revenge do not strengthen the soul; they strangle it. Mired in self-pity and victimhood, we keep our worlds small and our vision navel-ward; we leave no room for Grace.

Belonging to The Nativity of The Blessed Virgin Mary Church meant having to put away my petty complaints and incessant cravings. All the postures and gestures and rituals reined me in, humbled me and unified me with the others – all eight of us. We had to sit and pray, sing, sit, kneel and stand together in unison and harmony for an hour, ideally not focusing on the slights others have visited upon us but on strengthening the habit of compassion for others. The cross on the wall behind the altar was not there to keep us grieving and dour but to remind us of the others in the world who are hurting, caught in that dire moment of despair, hitting complete bottom. We pray for Grace to visit not us but them, and in so doing, feel It’s sweet relief.

I still haven’t found a new church. Like many, I say my church is Nature. I am fortunate to be living on the edge of Grasslands National Park, where every day, a stunning sunrise or sunset, a glimpse of a moose or a bison mother with babies trailing her across a plateau or out of a swamp, fill me with the same (and often, even greater) sense of wonder that prayer and hymns do. But that is another kind of church. The church of wandering off into the desert to fast from other humans and human noises and to pray the soft, sad prayers of the heart is an essential church for anyone searching for a conversation with their God. But The Church is nothing without The People; it is The People. And no matter how misanthropic I prefer to be – lifting myself above the fray with lines like “the more I talk to people, the more I prefer my dog” and “God is great, beer is good, and people are crazy,” the less good I am to anyone, the more I know I must get me to a rural church. Kneel among others. And bake some Matrimonial Squares for coffee after mass.

In the old days, after special masses – weddings, funerals, Christmas - at The Nativity, we retired to the basement and sat around tables, eating squares and cookies and sipping weak coffee while we, the faithful, expressed our doubts. We grumbled that the cities just don’t understand the effort and planning it takes to get to mass some Sundays, especially during calving season or in the midst of a blizzard. “Who cares about us?” we moaned, “a few small congregations in leaky churches miles apart and accessible only by bumpy roads?”

The diocese suggested we amalgamate and meet in different churches each week, even in each others’ homes. (I cringed at the thought of opening up my living room, with my piles of books covering a crumb-covered rug.) “It’ll never happen,” we mumbled. “We won’t survive”. And out rolled the list of miserable scenarios. “Please,” interrupted gentle Fr. Hope, our priest at the time, raising his palm and calming our catastrophizing with his deep, sonorous voice, “please remember to always leave room for Grace.”

Remembering and honouring

BY

As a Canadian, I frequently think about the sacrifices so many made for our country so we can enjoy the freedoms we have today. Freedom of expression, religious freedom, democracy, and the ability to disagree are a few of the many rights we enjoy because Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members stood up to tyranny and evil.

This year, as our Canadian allies face war on not only one continent, but two, I am reminded once again of the gravity of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the CAF.

As we witness the challenges our world faces, the sacrifice and work our men and women in uniform should weigh heavy on us. And we must not forget the sacrifices it took to build our

nation, and how we must work to remain free.

It reminds me of a quote often attributed to Winston Churchill. “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” A history which is woven into every part of our nation.

Earlier this spring, my family and I were travelling across Battle River—Crowfoot when we came upon the site of a church that had long since been demolished, and all that was left was a historical cairn and cemetery. As we stopped for a few minutes to look at this local history, some things stood out. One was a couple of military grave markers, those simple white marble headstones, which mark the final resting place of veter-

Like our beloved last priest, Fr. Joe, who was in his late 70s and in pain due to a never-quite-recovered broken back, still managed to make us think and laugh and hope and dream; Fr. Hope reminded me that whenever I feel a stir of empathy or compassion for someone’s plight, when I may have harboured a resentment against someone, and suddenly am broken open by an unexpected glimpse of the frightened child in them, or by some unattended guarded sorrow, burbling up and revealed by their eyes or their voice, I know: that’s Grace happening. Grace always shows up when I least expect it. I’m counting on it now.earching for a conversation with their God. But The Church is nothing without The People, it is The People. And no matter how misanthropic I prefer to be – lifting myself above the fray with lines like “the more I talk to people, the more I prefer my dog” and “God is great, beer is good and people are crazy”, the less good I am to anyone, the more I know I must get me to a rural church. Kneel among others. And bake some Matrimonial Squares for coffee after mass.

In the old days after special masses – weddings, funerals, Christmas - at The Nativity we retired to the basement and sat around tables, eating squares and cookies and sipping weak coffee, while we, the faithful, expressed our doubts. We grumbled that the cities just don’t understand the effort and planning it takes to get to mass some Sundays, especially during calving season or in the midst of a blizzard. “Who cares about us?” we moaned, “a few small congregations in leaky churches miles apart and accessible only by bumpy roads?”

The diocese suggested we amalgamate and meet in different churches each week, even in each others’ homes? (I cringed at the thought of opening up my living room, with my piles of books covering a crumb-covered rug.) “It’ll never happen”, we mumbled. “We won’t survive”. And out rolled the list of miserable scenarios. “Please,” interrupted gentle Fr.Hope, our priest at the time, raising his palm, and calming our catastrophizing with his deep, sonorous voice, “please remember to always leave room for Grace.”

Like our beloved last priest, Fr. Joe, who in his late 70’s and in pain due to a never-quite-recovered broken back, still managed to make us think and laugh and hope and dream, Fr. Hope reminded me that whenever I feel a stir of empathy or compassion for someone’s plight, when I may have harboured a resentment against someone, and suddenly am broken open by an unexpected glimpse of the frightened child in them, or by some unattended guarded sorrow, burbling up and revealed by their eyes or their voice, I know: that’s Grace happening. Grace always shows up when I least expect it. I’m counting on it now.

ans. Whether in the military cemeteries which lay adjacent to famous battlefields, or a few stones standing in a cemetery only accessible by a dirt road, hidden behind a few trees on the otherwise bald prairie; the history and stories of sacrifice ring throughout our nation, and we cannot forget them.

There are practical things we can do… teach our kids about Remembrance (which I attempted to do in that little cemetery in rural Alberta), promote ways to help veterans and Remembrance causes, and of course, respecting the men and women who wear the uniform today. This includes ensuring they have what they need in

the course of their duties, along with the supports to cope with their seen and unseen injuries, or when they leave the CAF at the end of their career.

But beyond the practical, our nation needs to always be one of honour. We must never forget and always remember. And as we approach Remembrance Day and Veterans Week, let’s show that by honouring those heroes who have served, and those who are serving.

I am proud to represent a riding rich in this history, from the small-town soldiers who went to flight wars over seas, to the members of the military stationed at Camp Wainwright today.

For folks across Battle River—Crowfoot, I have put together a website with all for the Remembrance Day Services, find out more here: www.damienkurek. ca/remembrance. Together, let’s Remember.

DAMIEN KUREK Battle River - Crowfoot MP

Damien Kurek

Matthews’ hot start bodes well for Leafs

Auston Matthews has always been able to put pucks past National Hockey League goaltenders, but his blazing hot start to the 2023-24 season might be an indication that the best is yet to come.

For only the second time in the past 100 years, a player, Matthews, scored hat tricks in the first two games of the season. Not surprisingly, the only other NHLer to do it since 1917-18 was the guy who may wind up as the NHL’s all-time goal-scoring champ, Alex Ovechkin, who turned the trick at the start of the 2017-18 season.

BY BRUCE PENTON Sports Columnist

Matthews, who grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, an unlikely location for development as one of the world’s best hockey players, needed only 11 shots on goal in the Toronto Maple Leafs’ first two games to get to six goals — and it could be a harbinger of things to come. He’s completely healthy, has a new four-year contract worth $53 million, has talented line-mates and obviously hasn’t lost his scoring touch.

Team-mate Morgan Rielly says the best is yet to come. An NHL.com feature written by Mike Zeisberger quoted Rielly saying “He’s going to do a lot of damage on a lot of records.”

Instead of the Leafs being just a run and-gun offensive team, led by Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander and John Tavares, Toronto is now a more rounded team this season after new general manager Brad Treliving got the key to the vault and spent some money on free agents.

The Leafs now boast a lineup featuring more gritty and ‘sandpaper’-type players, with the addition of Ryan Reaves, who might just be the heavyweight champion of the NHL’s hockey-fighting fraternity; Ty-

ler Bertuzzi, whose uncle Todd played a hard-nosed game during his 18-year NHL career; and Max Domi, whose father, Tie, was known for aggressive play and remains one of the Leafs’ all-time favourite players. Treliving also signed defenceman John Klingberg, but his reputation is that of an offensively skilled player whose defensive play is often lacking.

Still, the roster additions have made the Leafs one of the most exciting teams in the league and if they can get solid goaltending from the duo of Ilya Samsonov and Joseph Woll, they won’t be an easy out come playoff time. While more likely to win a game 6-5 than 2-1, the Leafs easily have the firepower to win many of those high-scoring games. With Matthews and Co. leading the way, of course.

Calder Trophy winner (top rookie) in 2016-17; Hart Trophy winner (MVP) in 2021-22; two-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner (most goals), Matthews would love to add one more piece of silverware to his collection — the Stanley Cup. It seems the pieces are fitting together nicely in Canada’s largest city for that to possibly happen for the first time since 1967.

• Bob Molinaro of pilotonline.com (Hampton, Va.):

“Before rolling your eyes at the proposed inclusion of flag football at the 2028 Summer Olympics, keep in mind that the ’24 Paris Games will introduce breakdancing as a medal sport. Now you can roll your eyes.”

• Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel, on X, after Tom Brady said the NFL is softening up and becoming like flag football: “So now that he’s retired he wants the game to be more physical.”

• Los Angeles Rams’ head coach Sean McVay, whose wife is pregnant, on possibly missing a game for the birth of his son: “I’m not going to miss a game. My son knows better than to come during a game.”

• Mike Bianchi again: “Anthony Richardson played in five NFL games this season, was knocked out of three of them with three different injuries and now is out for the season with a bum shoulder. Sadly, I fear A.R. has the speed and strength of an oncoming locomotive, but the fragility of a butterfly’s wings.”

• Another one from Bianchi: “Question: What has less forward progress – the Tampa Bay Bucs running game or a snail on a treadmill?”

• Canadian parody site The Beaverton on Scotiabank Arena in Toronto maximizing revenue with ridiculous charges: “People in the stands will be charged $15 for each time they say the name ‘Auston Matthews.’”

• The Beaverton, in the same story: “Since there is no correlation between the Leafs winning and people attending, we realized there is no need for any correlation between money and food either.”

• RJ Currie of sportsdeke.com: “A nine-year-old showed cat-like reflexes by catching his baby brother who had fallen off a table. Metro UK called him a hero; the Denver Bronco called him with a contract offer.”

• Fark.com:, on the inscription of a headstone of an avid golfer: “Guess what? I’m 6 under.”

• Fark.com again: “Russell Wilson has $39M guaranteed next season. Any significant injury would guarantee another $37M. Safest to bench him now.”

Care to comment? Email brucepenton2003@yahoo.ca

Drumheller RCMP, in partnership with Drumheller Institution, charge for possession of drugs

Between August and September of 2023, Drumheller RCMP General Investigative Services (GIS), in conjunction with the Drumheller Institution, Correctional Service of Canada, have concluded a number of Controlled Drugs and Substance and Cannabis Act investigations relating to the seizure of drugs at the Drumheller Institution, located on Highway 9 in Drumheller. On Aug. 21, 2023, staff at Correctional Service Canada’s Drumheller Institution located methamphetamine, which was seized by Drumheller RCMP. As a result of the investigation, Drumheller GIS have charged 29-year-old Daniel Graham with Possession

of a Controlled Substance. His court date will be Nov. 24, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller.

On Aug. 29, 2023, staff at Correctional Service Canada’s Drumheller Institution located methamphetamine, which was seized by Drumheller RCMP. As a result of the investigation, Drumheller GIS have charged 38-year-old Tyler Mykat with Possession of a Controlled Substance. His court date will be Nov.

24, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller.

On Aug. 29, 2023, staff at Correctional Service Canada’s Drumheller Institution located methamphetamine, which was seized by Drumheller RCMP. As a result of the investigation, Drumheller GIS have charged 24-yearold Jaskaran Sidhu with Possession of a Controlled Substance. His court date will be Nov. 24, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in

Drumheller.

On Sept. 5, 2023, staff at Correctional Service Canada’s Drumheller Institution located methamphetamine and MDMA, which was seized by Drumheller RCMP. As a result of the investigation, Drumheller GIS have charged 28-year-old Rami Hagos with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Methamphetamine and MDMA. His court date will be Nov. 24, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in Drumheller. RCMP and the Correctional Service of Canada will continue to jointly investigate any and all offences in and near the institution.

Boosting career education opportunities in schools

Alberta’s government is expanding dual credit programming for students to explore career paths and make meaningful transitions into post-secondary education, trade designations or the workplace.

Career-based programming better prepares students for the jobs they want and supports job creators with the skilled workers they need. To support students transitioning to post-secondary education or the workplace, Alberta Education is investing more than $3.6 million in dual credit grants to school authorities across the province for the 2023-24 school year.

Dual credit courses are career-based courses in grades 10, 11 and 12, where students can earn both high school credits and credits that count toward a post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree. Forty-seven school authorities across Alberta will receive a grant for the 2023-24 school year of up to $50,000 to create new dual credit opportunities and/or up to $100,000 to enhance existing dual credit courses.

New or enhanced dual credit opportunities in Alberta schools include carpentry and welding apprenticeships and training in artificial intelligence, medical and health technologies, and agriculture technology.

In total, Alberta Education is distributing 45 dual credit start-up grants and 16 dual credit enhancement grants for the 2023-24 school year to the 47 school authorities. School authorities can use the grants to deliver dual credit programming in the current school year and can carry over any unused funds into the 2024-25 school year.

“Alberta Education is committed to empowering students to pursue various career paths to support success inside and outside the classroom. Through dual credit programs, students can transition seamlessly into their next opportunity, whether it is post-secondary education, trade designations or various workplaces. Enhancing these opportunities is essential to encouraging high school completion and building a skilled, educated and engaged workforce to support Alberta’s growing economy.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Education

QUICK FACTS

• For the 2023-24 school year, Alberta Education is providing $2.1 million in dual credit start-up grants and $1.5 million in dual credit enhancement grants.

• Between 2013 and 2023, approximately 83,000 high school students participated in at least one dual credit course.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides, second from right, toured St. John Paul II Catholic School in Grande Prairie on Oct. 24. The school received a dual credit grant of $100,000 that will support its fabrication (welding) lab.

NOTICE - MEALS ON WHEELS

As of November 1, 2023, the Oyen Lodge will take over the Meals on Wheels program. This program is available for anyone in the community that is unable to prepare their own midday meal. Registration and invoicing will be done with Oyen Lodge, and delivery coordination will remain with the FCSS office.

Please call Oyen Lodge at 403-664-3661 for further information or inquiries.

Halloween for the Hungry

The Badland Baseball Academy & Local Volunteer youth will be going door-to-door collecting donations of non-perishable food items or monetary donations for the Oyen & District Food Bank All Donations are greatly appreciated! Please have a fun, safe & Spooky Halloween

Acadia Valley News

REPORTED BY YOLANDA KUHN

Well, it certainly feels a lot like winter these days. We got a dump of snow on Monday, and we’ve had highs of -5 and lows of up to -19 all week! It’s the same story every year; I don’t think we’re ever mentally prepared for winter to arrive!

Repairs to the roof at St. Peter & Paul’s Church were underway last week. Thank you to everyone who donated to this project.

On October 17th, The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department along with other fire departments, took part in the 1051 Wildland Firefighting course. They had nine dedicated members from their department attend. They would like to thank all the wives who helped with snacks and breakfasts, Elmer and Myrna Gregorchuk for the amazing lunches, and the East Central Training instructors. And, of course, their members for giving up their weekend to take the course.

A reminder that Halo and The A.V. Volunteer Fire department are selling raffle tickets to fundraise for Halo. The draw date is November 18th, 2023, at the Steak & Lobster Fundraiser. Tickets are $5 each and are available for purchase at Skappak’s Farm Supply, The Store, or a local member.

The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department is hosting its 2nd annual Halloween BBQ at the Firehall starting at 5:00 p.m. This year, they’re also collecting donations of gently used coats and boots for The Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter.

The Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department will be hosting its annual Steak & Lobster dinner and fundraiser on November 18th. Tickets are $65 each and can be purchased at the M.D. Office.

Adult drop-in Volleyball has started. It takes place on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Warren Peers School. Contact Marie if you have any questions 403-664-8589.

Warren Peers Students Union is currently running a first aid kit fundraiser. Watch for students out and about in town with their order forms.

Yoga in The Valley with Jamie Ross has started and will run on Thursday nights at the hall from 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Messy Makers Playgroup had their Halloween party today. I was lucky enough to pop in and see all the kiddos in their costumes. The playgroup meets on Thursdays at The Hall at 10:00 a.m. They have a Facebook Group for updates.

REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE

Saturday, November 11, 2023 - 10:30 AM Sharp Potluck Lunch to follow

The Cactus Gym Club’s Fall session is winding down. Sunday, November 5th will be their last class. Feel free to pop in at the Arena from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on November 4th or 5th to check it out.

We will be turning the fans on at the Arena after Gymnastics is finished and will get the ice in as soon as we can. If anyone is interested in helping coach youth drop-in shinny, give me a call at 403-664-0582. Here’s the deal, Golden 20’s Christmas Gala hosted by The Community Club is December 9th! D.J. Steve, with tables of fun is the entertainment this year, and Kelly Skappak will be catering. Tickets are $65 each and can be purchased at Skappak’s Farm Supplies or by contacting Jena Skappak at 403-928-0021.

The Acadia Valley E.C.S. is planning on hosting its annual “Christmas in the Valley” on December 16th. Watch Facebook and The Oyen Echo for more details. Thanks for reading this week. I will leave you with a quote from Sara Raasch. “Even the strongest blizzards start with a single snowflake.”

Meet your BADLANDS BADGERS!

PACEY PHILLIPS

Favourite Ball Team:

Favourite Food: Steak and potatoes

Favourite thing about being a Badger: Being able to follow my dream of playing baseball.

Favourite Ball Team: Toronto Blue Jays

Favourite Food: Chicken Alfredo

Favourite thing about being a Badger: The community supporting us.

PHOTO BY GREG RAFA

PHOTO BY SABRINA GREGORCHUK

Pacey Phillips

Josh Rolheiser

Vickie Newmeyer receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Kindersley resident Vickie Newmeyer was recently presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The Saskatchewan Economic Development Awards recognize the province’s best economic development marketing programs and partnerships. These prestigious awards honour organizations and individuals for their efforts in creating positive change in urban, suburban and rural communities.

Vickie is one of those individuals who has made a significant contribution to Kindersley and the surrounding district. Her 30-year legacy in Saskatchewan includes the creation of the Lemonade Stand Game, used for more than twenty years in over 120 communities to help high school students gain interest in entrepreneurship.

Vickie has been successfully managing Community Futures Meridian Region for the last 33 years. This prestigious award is a compliment to her hard work and a testament to her enthusiasm for rural Economic Development.

Community Futures Meridian Region, where Vickie leads as General Manager, has loaned $28.1 million to entrepreneurs, with an estimated 2,000 jobs created and maintained in the region.

Vickie plans to enter retirement in the new year, but it won’t be surprising if she decides to return to her roots as an entrepreneur.

Vickie Newmeyer, General Manager at Community Futures Meridian Region, was a 2023 Awards of Excellence recipient, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. SUBMITTED

Town of Oyen Library: Booknotes

FICTION:

Divine Rivals : A Novel by Rebecca J. Ross

The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods

Never Lie by Frieda McFadden

196 Hawkwood’s Sword by Christian Cameron Hellburner by Mike Maden

The Life She Had by Kelley Armstrong

The Noise by James Patterson

The Recovery Agent by Janet Evanovich

The Blackbriar Genesis by Simon Gervais

Rogue Angel-The Other

Crowd by Alex Archer

Thank You For Sharing by Rachel Runya Katz

NON-FICTION:

Cool Flowers: how to grow and enjoy long-blooming, hardy annual flowers using cool weather techniques by Lisa Mason Ziegler

Kid Paleontologist: explore the remarkable dinosaurs, fossils finds and Discoveries of the prehistoric era Crumbs and Doilies ; create stunning cakes and bakes at home with over 90 recipes from the iconic London Bakery by: Jemma Wilson

JUVENILE GRAPHIC NOVELS: Cat on the run in Cat of Death by Aaron Blabey YOUNG ADULT FICTION: Recruitment by K.A. Riley BoneSmith by: Nicki Pau Preto

JUVENILE FICTION: Tales from a not-so-posh Paris adventure by Rachel Renee Russell Aggie & Mudgy: the journey of two Kaska Dena Children by: Wendy Proverbs The Skull : A Tyrolean Folktale by Jon Klassen

Firefly by Philippa Dowding

PICTURE BOOKS:

Hey You! An Empowering Celebration of growing up Black by: Dapo Adeola A Human for Kingsley / by: Gabriel Evans

CURBSIDE SERVICE OPTION:

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.

Oyen & District Christmas Farmers’ Market is on Saturday, November 25th, 2023 from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Baked Spaghetti Lunch provided by Badlands Badgers Baseball Team

Text or call Delaine at 403-664-0320 for more information.

MacLean’s Funeral Home invites you to our 26th Tree of Remembrance

SATURDAY, NOV. 18, 2023 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #208 - 5th Ave East - Oyen, AB

Doors open @ 5:15 pm & Refreshments 5:30 pm • Supper 6:00 pm Presentation & Entertainment: 7:00 pm • Dessert Bar 8:00 pm

Please join us for an evening of food and refreshments, local entertainment and the presentation of a memorial medallion of your loved one amongst community members, friends and family. This evening is presented annually by our dedicated staff as an opportunity for fellowship and support to those who are on their journey of healing. We also take this time to share recognition and appreciation for our community partners who assist us and our families during their time of need.

We welcome you and your guests to join us on this evening of honourship, celebration and fellowship.

Please RSVP by Nov. 13, 2023 by calling 403-664-3767 or email: kim@ofscmacleans.com

Handibus will be provided from the Oyen Lodge to the Legion.

Please meet at the east main entrance as bus depart at 5:30 pm, 5:45 pm and 6:00 pm. Several trips provided at the conclusion of the evening.

Dayna Wilson, Library Manager Library Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 12-5; Tuesdays 2-7 403-664-3644 ext. 2 aoymlibrary@ marigold.ab.ca www.oyenlibrary.ca www.facebook.com/ OyenLibrary

Kim Walker Licensed Funeral Director

Pam Stark Licensed Funeral Director

I

Trudeau just blinked on his premier climate change initiative, the carbon tax

BY BRIAN ZINCHUK

With Atlantic Canada in revolt over the carbon tax on fuel oil, Trudeau suspends carbon tax for three years (until after the next election)

OTTAWA – Late in the afternoon of Oct. 26, the staunch federal Liberal policy of climate change priorities conquers all just cracked.

With Atlantic Canada, once a solid Liberal base, up in arms over the federal carbon tax on fuel oil used for home heating, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau blinked.

For the next three years (which would put it beyond the next federal election), fuel oil will be relieved of the federal carbon tax. While most of Canada stopped using fuel oil (very similar to diesel) for home heating years ago in favour of natural gas, up to 40 per cent of the population of certain Atlantic Canada provinces still use it. Up until July, fuel oil for home heating had been exempt from the carbon tax. And as those provinces recently adopted the federal carbon tax this past summer as it applies to fuel oil, those constituents were about to see major hikes in their heating bills as winter comes to bear.

During those three years, the federal government will heavily subsidize the adoption of electrically-powered heat pumps as a replacement for current fuel oil heating systems.

The announcement from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also comes at a time when he and his party have been tanking in opinion polls. The “Atlantic caucus” of Liberal MPs flanked Trudeau as he made the announcement.

The pause was announced with the federal carbon tax currently at $65 per tonne of CO2 equivalent (CO2e). In three years, the carbon tax will be $110 per tonne, nearly double its current level. Trudeau did not specifically say what would happen at the end of the three year relief period.

Price on pollution

Trudeau opened by saying, “Let me first talk a bit about the price on pollution. Economists and experts around the world have long known that putting a price on carbon emissions is the best way to drive down those emissions that caused climate change. It’s the cheapest, most efficient and most impactful way and it’s working. We are bending the curve leading the G7 countries because of our price on pollution. And then we design that price on pollution. So that incentivizes people to choose less-polluting ways to live and work and it puts money back in the pockets of eight out of 10 households where the federal system applies.”

However, apparently not enough people in Atlantic Canada to date have been incentivized to get off of fuel oil heating, so Trudeau announced a massive subsidy to a new technology, and a short timeline for it to be put into place.

He said, “We’ve heard clearly from Atlantic Canadians through our amazing Atlantic MPs, that since

“Having investments” isn’t the same thing as financial planning. We believe a real financial plan adapts and grows alongside your life - and includes investments, tax opportunities, estate and legacy planning, and more. Do you agree? Let’s talk.

CFP, B.COMM, Executive Financial Consultant craig.paetz@igpwm.ca 403-664-8311

the federal pollution price came into force this summer, replacing provincial systems, certain features of that pollution price needed to be adjusted to work for everyone.”

Trudeau continued, “Specifically, as Kody (Blois) said, many people in Atlantic Canada and in rural communities across the country rely on home heating oil. To be blunt, the price signal on heating oil is not resulting in enough people being able to switch to electric heat pumps, despite people wanting to move to these cleaner home heating options.”

Heat pumps for all

He continued, “Atlantic Canadians understand as well as anyone else in the country why we need to fight climate change, and what the impacts of extreme weather are on people. But we have to make sure we’re fighting climate change in ways that supports all Canadians that has been at the centre of our choices as a government for the past eight years, fight climate change, while supporting Canadians in how we do it. That is why today we are announcing a three year pause on the federal pollution price on heating oil, so that we can give everyone the time and ability to switch to heat pumps.”

Those three years will be spent implementing a massive conversion from fuel oil heating to electrically-powered heat pumps. Heat pumps have become the key technology the federal government has been pushing in the last couple years to replace combusting fossil fuels for space heating. Similar in operation to an air conditioner, they don’t burn fuel, but rather extract heat from the outside environment, which can be problematic when temperatures get extremely cold and there’s precious little heat outside to extract.

In making his pitch, Trudeau said, “Switching to an electric heat pump from oil heating, which is very vulnerable to volatile global market prices, can save people a lot of money. In fact, it can mean as much as 1000s of dollars a year less spent on energy bills. So the second part of our announcement today is that, piloting in the Atlantic, we’re working with provinces to install a free heat pump for people who are making at or below median household.”

That means half the population would get a taxpayer funded “free” heat pump. The press release noted, “A strengthened Oil to Heat Pump Affordability program that will partner with provinces and territories to increase from $10,000 to $15,000 the amount of federal funding eligible homeowners can receive for installing a heat pump, adding up to an additional $5,000 in grant funding to match provincial and territorial contributions via co-delivery arrangements. This would make the average heat pump free for lower income households as we continue to minimize upfront costs and make federal programs even easier to access for all households.”

Surprise money, more money

And Trudeau surprised his own MPs by promising

Atlantic Canadians understand as well as anyone else in the country why we need to fight climate change, and what the impacts of extreme weather are on people.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

a $250 incentive to sign up right now. “Didn’t how about that one, guys?” he said to the applause of his Atlantic caucus.

“And for everyone else, we’ve got an enhanced program that will deliver heat pumps upfront, to be paid off with the savings you’ll be getting over the coming years.

“We are switching to heat pumps, off home heating oil, as a region in Atlantic Canada, and as a country.”

Trudeau said rural Canadians will be getting more money as well. He said, “One more thing today, we are doubling from 10 to 20 per cent the rural top up that people get as part of their quarterly pollution price rebates. Because if you live in a rural community, you don’t have the same options that people who live in cities do. We get that. So this is more money in your pocket to recognize those realities, even as we continue to fight climate change and build a stronger economy.”

Why now?

When asked, “Why wait until now to do this?” Trudeau said, “This is an important moment where were adjusting policies so that they have the right outcome. We are doubling down on our fight against climate change and keeping true to the principles that we are supporting Canadians while we fight climate change. We recognize that for many people, particularly in Atlantic Canada, where the proportion of home heating oil is higher than elsewhere across the country, regardless of the price signal, they were unable to make the switch to heat pumps, for example.

“So we decided to take a slightly different tack of suspending the price on pollution on home heating oil for three years, while we ensure that everyone can get access to a heat pump and get it installed, free, working with the provinces, for people on the below the median income scale, and upfront with an interest-free loan to pay it back with the savings they’re going to make on electricity for higher income people.

“This is a program that continues to push what we need, which is to reduce our emissions, and to support families as we do it. It’s a program that took a lot of hard work and a lot of discussions in terms of getting it right. But the various elements that we’re announcing today, I know are going to be extremely well received by people across Atlantic Canada.”

Undermining

Asked if he was undermining his own policy by granting a carbon tax exemption, Trudeau replied, “It’s actually enhancing our own policy. This is about accelerating the adoption of heat pumps. What we heard very clearly from Atlantic Canadians over the past months was the pricing signal on home heating oil was not, in itself, sufficient to be able to transition, to be able to have people say ‘Okay, it’s worth it for me to invest in a home heat pump.’

“And the conversations we had with people we realize

that that’s what we want, as we’re getting off coal as we’re electrifying our grids across the country, as we’re looking to reduce our emissions. We know the solution. Heat pumps are a massive, clear solution to fighting climate change, and to creating more affordability for families across the country. But Atlantic Canadians in particular, were unable, many of them were unable to make that switch,” he said, reiterating the “free” aspect of the program.

He said, “So the point of our fight against climate change, the point of our price on pollution and all the measures we put forward is to get people to change behaviors in ways that are af-

fordable to them that are going to save them money and leave them better off. And that’s exactly what this announcement does.”

Re-electing Atlantic MPs

The National Post reporter challenged Trudeau about fairness for people in rural Ontario, Alberta and Saskatchewan who have been paying the carbon tax on heating for years, with no exemptions. “What do you say to those people? Is that about a real change or is this about not wanting to lose a bunch of Atlantic Canadian MPs?” the reporter asked. Sixteen of those Liberal MPs were standing behind Trudeau for the cameras.

Trudeau replied, “The highest pro-

portion of people with home heating oil across the country are in Atlantic Canada, and that’s why this hit them particularly hard, as the provincial pricing systems were replaced by the federal pricing system. But people across the country are going to benefit from the suspension of the price on pollution on home heating oil and benefit from the programs we’re putting in place to make sure that they can switch to heat pumps. Right now, low income families across the country can access the $10,000 grant to switch to heat pumps. Those who are in provinces that will work with us to cover the rest of the amount, as three provinces in Atlantic Canada are right now, with the forth coming on shortly, I am certain, we are going to be able to make sure that people across the country make the switch from home heating oil to heat pumps. Because that’s the kind of thing that we’re both save people money, right across the country, and fight climate change in all the ways that matter.”

When asked about people who use natural gas for heating, Trudeau replied that home heating oil was a much less environmentally efficient way to heat homes and it was “one of those low hanging fruits.”

Pierre Poilievre responds

The announcement came well after the typical news cycles, meaning social media was where most commentary was found. Leader of the Opposition Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was just heading into a “Axe the tax” rally in Nova Scotia with what he said were 1,000 people attending when the news broke. He said on X, “After plummeting in the polls, a flailing, desperate Trudeau is now flipping and flopping on the carbon tax as I am holding a gigantic axe the tax rally in a Liberal-held

Atlantic riding. He is admitting he’s not worth the cost.”

And then he added, “Last year, Trudeau voted AGAINST our motion to take his tax off home heating oil. After plummeting in the polls and minutes before my axe the tax rally, he…panicked and promised to delay his home heating oil tax until after the election. I will keep the heat on and take the tax off.”

Premier Scott Moe

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe responded on X, saying, “After years of telling us that most households are getting more money back from the carbon tax than they pay, Trudeau today announced a three year pause of his carbon tax on home heating oil to make life more affordable.

“So isn’t that an admission that the Trudeau carbon tax is making life a lot less affordable?

“And of course, it doesn’t do much for Saskatchewan. The carbon tax is still being fully applied to natural gas and over 90% of Saskatchewan households are heated with natural gas.

“Just axe the tax on everyone and everything.”

Premier Danielle Smith

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said on X, “Although I congratulate Atlantic Canadians for a well deserved break from the carbon tax on home heating oil, I am frankly disturbed that same break will not be extended to Albertans and those from Saskatchewan and elsewhere in Canada who heat their homes with natural gas.

“Question for the Liberal Government: Are we not Canadians too?

“What a terrible message this sends about how dysfunctional and divisive Ottawa has become.”

Strengthening health care: A collaborative effort

Alberta’s government and the Alberta Medical Association (AMA) have recommitted to work together to stabilize and improve primary health care across the province.

The government and the AMA have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on actions to better support physicians practising comprehensive primary health care. Comprehensive primary health care refers to a patient with regular access to primary care providers who ensure all their health care needs are met.

The MOU includes collaborating on the development and transition to a new family physician compensation model, finding ways to alleviate the administrative burden on family physicians, modernizing primary care governance, supporting family doctors to spend more time with patients, and identifying other short-term actions that can stabilize primary health care. Work to fulfil the MOU will begin immediately so it can inform the government’s budget 2024 planning process.

As part of the government’s Oct. 18 announcement detailing immediate actions it is taking to improve primary health care, a task force was introduced to develop a new payment model for family physicians. The work of this task force will run in parallel with the MOU as a complement to foster comprehensive primary care. To ensure ongoing communication with the minister, the

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task force has been directed to provide interim reports to the minister’s office by January and a final report by March.

In addition to the MOU, other commitments announced on Oct. 18 that will support primary care providers include:

• Creating a primary health care division within Alberta Health.

• Allocating $57 million over th-

“Every

Albertan deserves access to high-quality primary health care. Right now, many Albertans can’t

find a family doctor or get an appointment with the one they have.

Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health

ree years to provide family doctors and nurse practitioners with support to help manage their increasing number of patients. Each provider has the potential to receive up to $10,000 annually. This is an initial step towards stabilizing the system and supporting their growing patient load.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing a three-year pause on the carbon tax on home heating fuel oil in Atlantic Canada. Notably, while Trudeau had no jacket and his sleeves rolled up, all 16 MPs standing behind him were more formally attired, with all the men wearing suit jackets. CPAC

Classifieds

Sedalia Bridal Shower honouring

Selena Hayworth Saturday, November 11 2:00 PM Sedalia Hall

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GET YOUR MESSAGE SEEN ACROSS Alberta. The Blanket Classifieds or Value Ads reach over 600,000 Alberta readers weekly. Two options starting at $269 or $799 to get your message out! Business changes, hiring, items for sale, cancellations, tenders, etc. People are increasingly staying home and rely on their local newspapers for information. KEEP people in the loop with our 90 Weekly Community Newspapers. Call THIS NEWSPAPER now or email classifieds@awna.

SPRUCE POINT PARK Association now accepting applications for the position of: PARK MANAGER, 2024 season, May 1st to September 15th (end date flexible). Spruce Point Park Campground and Marina is located on Lesser Slave Lake approximately 285 kms northwest of Edmonton, AB near Hamlet of Kinuso. Manager must live on site in own RV unit. Full-service lot provided. For complete job description package please call 780-775-3805 or email sprucepointpark@gmail. com. Closing date: January 15th, 2024, or until suitable candidate is found.

EMPLOYMENT WANTED

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Truck Driver - Bulk Fuel

Position #: HR23-276

If you “measure your days in acres, not hours,” are motivated to help members get it done, then we have a job for you.

Reporting to the Agency Manager, the Petroleum Bulk Fuel Truck Driver is responsible for making timely, accurate, and safe bulk fuel deliveries to UFA’s members and customers. This role has significant impact on customer’s perceptions of UFA, as well as significant accountabilities for environmental and safety policies. Service excellence is required. UFA offers:

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Musical Theatre Chorus newest venture for Stage Hanna

BY GWEN SNELL Freelance Journalist

Hanna’s local amateur theatre group is trying something different this fall with their Musical Theatre Chorus.

Open to ages 7 to 97 years of age, this cross-generational program provides an opportunity for all ages to enjoy music in a relaxed setting.

Musical leadership for the program is being provided by Heather Skinner (Miss Heather’s Music) and Michelle Viste. The initial focus is on learning

Big

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•

and rehearsing Christmas music - with the intent to move on to a broader selection as the group develops and grows.

Volunteers with Stage Hanna will be assisting with character and acting development. This will be tied closely with the musical component true Musical Theatre Chorus experience for all involved.

CAREER & EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Stage Hanna made the decision to offer the Musical Theatre Chorus when it was determined that they would not be proceeding with a fall musical. Many in the community expressed disappointment and wanted to see something being offered locally for musical theatre enthusiasts.

If you missed the first two weeks, volunteers assure us that they are still accepting participants! Feel free to join in on Wednesdays starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Hanna First United Church.

Drumheller RCMP seek public’s assistance to identify suspects

Drumheller RCMP are seeking the public’s assistance to identify 2 suspects involved in 2 Break and Enters.

At approximately 6:00 am on August 7th, 2023, Drumheller RCMP responded to reports of a break and enter at the Fas Gas convenience store located at 191 Railway Avenue E in Drumheller. Shortly afterwards, RCMP responded to a 2nd break and enter at the Veggie Shack store located at 700 Hwy 9 South in Drumheller. The break and enters occurred sometime during the early morning hours. Damages were done to

both buildings and miscellaneous items stolen. Photos of suspects are attached and the public is encouraged to call Drumheller RCMP if recognized. If you have any information regarding these matters, please contact Drumheller RCMP at 403.823.7590 or contact your local Police Service. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Adults in the chorus: Front - Evelyne Paterson, Liz Gourlay, Margaret Moore. Back Row - Chelsea Shortfall and Kari Bott. Heather Skinner at piano.

PHOTOS BY GWEN SNELL

L-R: Harrison Banco, Mckenzie Karg, Addison Banco

Heather Skinner of Miss Heather’s Music

L-R: Jett Steinbrenner, Autum Banco, Ester Jordan

Promoting regional economic growth

Alberta’s government is investing an additional $9 million over the next three years in new projects that will help promote regional economic growth across the province.

The Northern and Regional Economic Development (NRED) program was created in 2022 to help attract job-creating investment and support economic growth and diversification across Alberta. Eligible projects can receive funding of up to $200,000 to help deliver business supports, increase labour force attraction and retention, enhance tourism and build capacity for economic growth. A new intake is now open for the NRED program and applications will be accepted until Dec. 20.

The $9 million in funding is available through Budget 2023 over the next three years and is part of a four-year $14-million investment. Since the budget passed in March, $5 million has been allocated for projects in communities around the province, including $200,000 to transform the Arts Council Wood Buffalo property in downtown Fort McMurray into a creative hub to drive economic opportunities, $40,000 to the Trails Tourism Initiative to enhance the outdoor adventure tourist experience in Hinton and more than $72,000 for the Cold Lake First Nations Fire Training Centre to deliver programming that supports training and labour skill development.

The NRED program is one of several programs to support northern and regional economic development across the province. Other economic programs and supports include $500,000 annually in bursary funding to help grow the number of students and skilled workers in Alberta’s north and providing $1.25 million to the nine regional economic development alliances, which will help each of them support economic and job growth in their regions.

• The NRED program provides up to 50 per cent of total eligible project costs. Projects led by Indigenous communities will receive up to 75 per cent of total eligible project costs.

• Approved applicants are eligible to receive between $20,000 and $200,000 per project.

• The NRED program supports projects that focus on five key areas: - investment in economic development infrastructure

business supports - labour force attraction and retention

QUICK FACTS

- tourism planning, capacity building and infrastructure

- economic development capacity building

• There are two funding streams under the program.

- Northern Development and Indigenous Stream: Open to eligible projects based in northern Alberta and to Indigenous applicants, including First Nations and Metis Settlements.

- Regional Development Stream: Open to eligible projects based outside of northern Alberta and to non-Indigenous applicants.

• In 2022-23, the NRED program invested a total of $5.1 million in 70 projects that supported regional economic growth and diversification. This includes:

- $1.95 million to 26 projects based in northern Alberta and Indigenous communities.

- $3.15 million to 44 projects based outside of northern Alberta and Indigenous communities.

Applications opening for livestock drought relief QUICK FACTS

Applications open Oct. 30 for the 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance program, providing livestock producers with up to $165 million to maintain breeding herds.

The governments of Alberta and Canada are partnering on the 2023 Canada-Alberta Drought Livestock Assistance program to support livestock producers facing extraordinary costs due to this year’s dry conditions. Funding for this joint AgriRecovery initiative is provided through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).

Livestock producers who altered their usual grazing practices due to drought conditions for more than 21 days this season can apply for financial support to cover losses incurred to manage and maintain female breeding animals such as cattle, bison, horses, elk, sheep, goats, alpacas, yak, musk ox, deer, water buffalo and llamas. A minimum of 15 animals per type of livestock are required to qualify.

Benefits will be based on a feed-need calculation for feed costs incurred from lost grazing days for eligible breeding animals on hand as of Dec. 31, 2023. Eligible producers could access up to $150 per head to help maintain the breeding herd in drought regions.

Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) will administer the initiative and livestock producers can get more information and apply online on AFSC’s website. The application deadline is Jan. 15, 2024 and extraordinary costs can be incurred until March 31, 2024.

This announcement is part of a larger disaster response totalling $365 million in federal-provincial cost-shared funding under the AgriRecovery Framework to help farmers and ranchers in British Columbia, Alberta and Saskatchewan with extraordinary costs due to this year’s extreme weather conditions.

Producers have access to a comprehensive suite of business risk management (BRM) programs that are the first line of defence for producers facing disasters, including AgriStability, AgriInsurance and AgriInvest. With joint funding from the federal government and provinces, these BRM programs provide protection against different types of income and production losses.

The federal government also announced an initial list of designated regions in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba where Livestock Tax Deferral has been authorized for 2023 due to extreme weather conditions.

Drought-relief supports currently available for producers include:

- AgriStability, a business risk management program, was reopened until Sept. 29 for late participation. This gave Alberta farmers and ranchers more time to reassess business risks and enrol to protect their operations.

- Livestock Tax Deferral, a federal provision that allows livestock producers who are forced to sell all or part of their breeding herd due to drought to defer a portion of their income from sales until the following tax year. There are 57 prescribed Alberta regions for the federal Livestock Tax Deferral.

- Low Yield Allowance, which allows for additional cereal or pulse crops to be salvaged for livestock feed, was doubled by AFSC for 2023.

- Water Pumping Program, which enables producers to rent pipe and pumping equipment from the Alberta government to fill dugouts from nearby water sources.

- Temporary Livestock Water Assistance program, which enables livestock and poultry producers affected by water shortage and drought conditions to receive streamlined support.

- Sustainable CAP Water Program, which helps producers adopt agricultural water management practices to manage risks to water quality and supplies and adapt to climatic variability.

- AFSC’s Moisture Deficiency Insurance (pasture) and Moisture Deficiency Endorsement (hay), which compensates producers when precipitation falls below the normal expected amount at selected weather stations. Producers can also buy production insurance on hay crops.

• Alberta provides timely information to assist producers with management decisions during dry conditions and periods of business stress, including the Alberta Crop Report, Alberta Climate Information Service and other resources on the farming in dry conditions webpage.

• The Sustainable CAP is a five-year (2023-28), $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation and resiliency in the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector.

- This includes $1 billion in federal programs and $2.5 billion in cost-shared programs funded 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially-territorially.

Stodalka, Ronald B. Baba, Marilyn A. Herrmann, Bryce R. Farrell, Darren E. Folkersen, Ashley D. Herrmann, Mario M. Mudri

- Competitive Wages

- Company Matched RSP/DPSP

- Employee Discounts & More!

Email resume to jeanabaker@lukplumbing.com

ACADIA VALLEY

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15

• Acadia Valley Christmas Market 3:007:00 PM at the Hall. 25 vendors. Supper & goodies - Clay Cup Co.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

• Acadia Valley Volunteer Fire Department annual Steak & Lobster Dinner. Tickets $65 and are available at M.D. of Acadia.

* Yoga in The Valley Thursdays from 7:30 * 8:30 PM in the Hall. Call/text Jamie 403548-5146 for more info.

* Gymnastics - Cactus Gym Club’s Fall Classes until November 4 at the Acadia Valley Event Centre. To register or for more info, contact Michelle Hutton at 403502-3050.

* Adult drop-in Volleyball Wednesdays 7:30 PM at Warren Peers School. Contact Marie 403-664-8589 for more info.

BUFFALO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

• Buffalo Ladies Club Turkey Supper at the Hall 6:00 PM.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

• Buffalo’s “Christmas in the Country” Market at the Hall beginning at 11:00 AM.

BYEMOOR

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10

• Crib Tournament at Endmoor Drop-In. Starts at 10:00 AM sharp. Please be there by 9:45 AM. Pre-register before November 3. First 32 registrants accepted. Cost $20 each (includes lunch). Call Doreen 403579-2460 or 403-740-9546.

CEREAL

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

• Cereal Turkey Supper and Christmas Market 4:00 - 8:00 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28

• Cereal Board of Trade presents Ham & Turkey Bingo. Doors open 6:30 PM, Bingo at 7:30 PM CJ Peacock Centre Gym. Prizes of Hams & Turkeys. 19 games. All ages welcome.

* Mondays - Cereal Board of Trade BINGO. Doors open 6:30 PM. Bingo starts 7:30 PM at the CJ Peacock Centre.

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

CESSFORD

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

• Ella Jane W.I. Christmas Craft Market

ONE STOP WINDSHIELD REPLACEMENT

10:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Interested vendors contact Erika at erikalacelle55@gmail.com

* Tuesdays from 7:00 - 9:00 PM Pickleball in Gym and Craft Night in Library Berry Creek Community School (except school holidays)

CRAIGMYLE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5

• Pancake Breakfast 9:00 AM

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19

• Turkey Supper 4:00-6:30 PM at Craigmyle Historic Church

* Wednesdays - 9:30 AM Coffee at Craigmyle Historic Church

ENDIANG

* Mondays - 1:00 PM Endiang Floor Curling

HANNA

Hanna Senior Circle

- Wednesdays 1:00 PM Cards (Spades) - Thursdays 1:00 PM Cards (Five Hundred)

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

• Pumpkin Parade 6:00 PM at Hector

King-Hunter Park

• Youth Drop-In at Centennial Place 3:305:30 PM. Open gym. Drop-in fee applies.

• Learn to Play Pickleball 6:00 PM at Centennial Place. All ages. Drop-in or access fee applies.

• Pickleball for 16+ at Centennial Place

7:00-9:00 PM. Drop-in or access fee applies.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2

• BINGO at Hanna Senior Circle 7:30 PM

• Pickleball for all ages 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM at Centennial Place. Sponsored by Town of Hanna.

• Youth Drop-In at Centennial Place 3:305:30 PM. Open gym. Drop-in fee applies.

• Basketball (16+) at Centennial Place 7:00-9:00 PM. Drop-in fee applies.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3

• Family Open Gym (parents must stay)

12:30-1:30 PM. Free.

• Youth Drop-In at Centennial Place 3:305:30 PM. Open gym. Drop-in fee applies.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

• BINGO at Hanna Senior Circle 7:30 PM

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 17 & 18

• Hanna Curling Club presents 2023 Seymour Cup Open Cash Bonspiel. 3 games guaranteed. $180/team. Call or text Tanner to sign up 403-854-0324.

• Hanna Farmers Market Christmas Market at JC Charyk School 4:00-8:00 PM (Friday) and 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Saturday). Concession available. Visit Santa. For more info contact Melissa 403-8541253.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

• Sunshine Club Christmas Tea at the Hanna Lodge 1:30 PM. Admission $5.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30

• TURKEY BINGO at Hanna Senior Circle 7:30 PM

NEW BRIGDEN

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

• Winter Wonderland 4:00 - 9:00 PM. Book a table by calling / texting Lucille 403-6640172.

OYEN

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 1

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

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 5

• Assumption School Annual Cookie Walk. All of the proceeds go towards our Chalice Child, Nelly and her family. We have provided for this family for the past Seven years. Nelly is currently in Grade 8.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9

• Jr. Curling Clinic 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Call Jackie 403-664-0157 for more information.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11

• Remembrance Day Service Acadia #208 at the Oyen Legion Hall 10:30 AM Sharp. Potluck lunch to follow.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13

• Town of Oyen Open House 6:00 PM Town Council Chambers. Join us for refreshments and light snacks as we discuss the annexation process for the Oyen East Industrial Area.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16

• Jr. Curling Clinic 4:00 - 6:00 PM. Call Jackie 403-664-0157 for more information.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19

• BCAS Winter Gymkhana Series at the Crossroads Centre. 12 noon start with all tiny mite events. 1:30 PM start with other age groups. Concession open. Spectators welcome.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24

• Fun Night at Oyen Seniors Centre. Games and Socializing. BYOB and snacks. 7:00 PM until midnight. Call Lynda Grudecki for more information.

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24-26

• Skins Spiel. Contact Brett 403-664-8868

to enter a team.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25

• Oyen Christmas Farmers’ Market 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM at the Legion. Lunch provided by the Badgers Baseball Team. Variety of crafts and home-based businesses.

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

* Oyen & District Curling Club Fun League runs Tuesday evenings and starts first week of November. Contact Kari 403-6641001 to enter a team.

* Oyen & District Curling Club Cash League runs Wednesday evenings and starts first week of November. Contact Brett 403-664-8868 to enter a team.

RICHDALE

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

• Richdale Fall Community Dance at the Richdale Community Hall. Doors open 7:00 PM, Music at 8:00 PM. Music by Dally Up & Dance. $15 adult, $10 (7-12 years).

SCAPA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 4

• Potluck Supper at the Scapa Hall 6:00 PM.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25

• Scapa’s Country Christmas Market 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at Scapa Hall/ Lunch available. Donations accepted for the Hanna Food Bank. For more info contact Crista at 403-854-0181.

SEDALIA

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 18

• Security Awareness for Family and Community. VHF and UHF Two-Way Radios. $25 Registration. 10 AM - Noon and 1-3 PM at the Sedalia Town Hall. Speakers: Rene Strinholm & Rene Querido. For sale at seminar: Hand held radios $160, 50W radios $550, 50W radio vehicle antennas $150. Cash only. Help your family as crises arise. Build community!

YOUNGSTOWN

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 23

• Youngstown Christmas Mini-Fair 3:007:00 PM at the Youn gstown Community Hall. Variety of crafts and home-based business products. Christmas hamper raffle. Kids craft area. Photos with Santa. Beef-on-a-Bun Supper by Dryland Multi 4-H Club. For more info or took a table contact Renee at 403-857-8322.