March 4, 2014 Country Booster

The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta 16 Pages, March 4, 2014

Inside...

A variety of merchandise and services: Farm equipment and supplies, automotive and RVs, auctions, homes, furnishings and decor, banking and more!

News Features…

County examines adding fourth officer. . .

2

Mothers raise funds for playschool. . . . . . . . . .

3

Rural fire departments work together. . . . . . . . 10 Battle River Bus offers valuable rural service . . . . . . . . 15

Win a Colour Enlargement of your Farm!

Ron Fowler and Graham Guntrip display a pair of sleds which can be admired on March 16. Ron is with his 1980 Polaris TXL – a rare sled he converted for steep hill mountain riding. Graham is shown with a 1980 Yamaha 440 Exciter.

On Sunday, March 16, owners of snowmobiles from decades gone by will be travelling from all parts of Alberta to Camrose to show off, compare and educate the public about their vintage sleds. The House of Thunder, on 48th Avenue, will host the sights, sounds and memories of some truly remarkable machines in the

3rd Annual Camrose Vintage Snowmobile Show.

This is a joint effort between the just4funsledders, based in Camrose, and the Alberta Relic Riders, a Calgary based club.

Last year this well-attended activity attracted no less than sixty-five unique and very rare and valuable snowmobiles. The oldest sled exhibited was an extremely low production 1962 Autobogan.

Sled-owners will be asked to show up between 10 a.m. and noon.

A $25 registration fee (for those showcasing their prized sleds) includes a hearty breakfast at Humpty’s. Admission is free to the public.

For more information contact Ron Fowler at Battle River Recreation Repair 780-672-1505.

See page 8 Visit our website: www.camrosebooster.com

Photo by Sue Nelson

Always better – always better read

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 2

Jackie Rae loves this time of year.

Why? Because curling is so much fun!

By Murray Green

And, the shop is really busy right now.

As the Auto Shoppe’s Celebrity Apprentice, J.R. is very busy learning lots about collision repairs. “I hope you drive safely on those icy roads, but if something happens, count on the pros at The Auto Shoppe to do a great job for you.�

4709-36 Street, Camrose 780-672-7231 Visit our new Website: www.autoshoppe.ca

Collision Repair Centre

Real Estate FARMS • ACREAGES • RANCHES

BUILD YOUR OWN HOUSE – 7.5 acres with power and gas. Close to Hwy 26, approx. 20 miles east of Camrose. Call George. S-22.

1/2 SECTION MIXED FARM – with beautiful 2-level home just north of Highway 16 at Mackay, Alberta. $795,000. S-48

SUBDIVISION DEVELOPMENT near Camrose – excellent investment right on the edge of Camrose! Development lots overlooking Tillicum Beach – subdivision already surveyed!

Call George. S-11.

HISTORICAL DAYSLAND ACREAGE – with house in need of major renovation on 7.5+/– acres. $106,000. S-49

FARMLAND on Battle River – Pasture and crop land southeast of Camrose. Excellent addition to mixed farm or build your new country home with established trees and a creek!

Call George. S-12.

1/4 WITH 300 x 100¹ HOG BARN – shop and Quonset south west of New Norway.

Barn is currently rented, 45Âą acres cult with outstanding views. Call George. S-30.

ACREAGE NEAR KILLAM LAM M – 2009 1800 ! on 13.7¹ sq. ft.¹, 3-bed/2 bed ed/2 ed/2 /2 2 bath bDUmodular mC odu dular ho EaDhome E R acres. Asking $330,000. $330 0 Call George. S-32. $3 $33 EXCEPTIONAL HOBBY FARM – great set of buildings. 92 acre parcel between Vermilion and Lloydminster. Call Gordie. F-15.

4 ACRES BESIDE THE GOLF COURSE – in Daysland with 1400¹ sq. ft. house, attached garage, 32x34 heated insulated shop. Excellent location. Asking $525,000. S-44 4 ACRES BARE LAND IN DAYSLAND – Great place to build your dream home. Close to golf course and school. Asking $175,000. S-45

SOLD

GOOD QUALITY GRAIN LAND – with nice views and well-treed building site located between Vegreville and Two Hills. S-50 4 QUARTERS – of bare land north of Killam in pasture and tame hay but 505 +/- acres are cultivatable. S-51 NEW LISTING – Acreage north of Daysland with well cared for 3-bedroom bungalow and large machine shed on at least 7 acres. $249,900.

S-53 NEW LISTING: INSULATED HEATED SHOP – with living quarters in Heisler. $150,000. S-57.

NEW LISTING: SCENIC QUARTER – between Holden and Vegreville with 100 acres cultivated and large shop. $450,000. S-58 NEW LISTING: PUREBRED HORSE FARM – with new house and excellent buildings on Hwy 26 between Camrose and Viking. S-59.

is published for Controlled Distribution

By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 12,790 copies Providing coverage to the communities of Camrose (RRs and Boxes only), Ohaton, Edberg, Meeting Creek, Donalda, Bawlf, Kelsey, Rosalind, Daysland, Heisler, Strome, Forestburg, Galahad, Castor (farms), Killam, Sedgewick, Lougheed, Coronation/Brownfield, Alliance, Hardisty, Amisk, Hughenden, Czar, Metiskow, Cadogan, Provost (farms), Armena, Hay Lakes, New Sarepta, Rolly View, Round Hill, Kingman, Tofield, Ryley, Holden, Bruce, Viking, Kinsella, Irma, Wainwright (farms and lock boxes), New Norway, Ferintosh, Bashaw, Bittern Lake, Gwynne.

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 noon

Phone 780-672-3142

Fax 780-672-2518

News email: news@camrosebooster.com Display Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com Classified Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com Website: camrosebooster.com

4925-48 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1L7 The most effective, most economical advertising medium in the Camrose area.

The entire contents of THE CAMROSE BOOSTER and THE COUNTRY BOOSTER are protected by copyright and any unauthorized reproduction of it, in whole or in part, without consent in writing, is expressly prohibited.

NEW LISTING: QUARTER OF GRAINLAND – southwest of Donalda, 130+/- acres cultivated. $370,000. S-60

If you are thinking of selling your farm or acreage, please give us a call. All replies treated in strictest confidence.

Gordie Fischer

780¡754¡3864 LTHPS! NVYKPL'SPU]PL^ JH

George Singer

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County examines fourth officer

780¡608¡6555 LTHPS! NLVYNL'SPU]PL^ JH

Camrose County is proposing to add another officer to the Protective Services unit to handle the increasing need for a by-law officer in the villages of Hay Lakes, Bittern Lake, Bawlf, Rosalind, Ferintosh, Edberg and the Town of Bashaw. “The Village of Bawlf approached the county about adding a regional peace officer for provision of by-law enforcement on a total 100 per cent user pay basis,� said county administrator Steve Gerlitz. “Our recommendation is that the county accept the proposal and pass on to the participating municipalities or approval.�

The seven participating municipalities would share the cost of the peace officer, so the extra manpower would not add to the county budget.

All of the communities would have to support the proposal to fund the officer and the equipment needed.

Protective Services manager Mike Kuzio estimated the cost to be between $20,853 and $23,344 for each of the communities, which would be about $1,738 to $1,945 a month. “When you look at it on a monthly charge, it looks pretty reasonable,� said Steve. “The municipalities were on board with the planning stage. All of the CEO’s know about the proposal, but not all village councillors may know about it yet.�

The employee would work for the town and villages, but would be listed as a county officer under the solicitor general and use the local office instead of setting up another space in a cost and time saving move. “It is easier for all of us to have the employee listed under our department,� added Steve.

Camrose County backed the idea of an extra officer, but the final decision will be in the hands of the province.

Some rural mailboxes damaged in county

By Murray Green

The Camrose RCMP detachment is seeking your help in solving a recent rash of acts of mischief to rural mailboxes and property in Camrose County.

The RCMP members are asking for public assistance to provide information pertaining to the suspect(s) that have targeted residences in the Miquelon Lake, Kingman and Round Hill areas.

Residents are encouraged to report these acts that have been known to result in thousands of dollars of property dam-

age and the loss of sensitive mail documents.

The RCMP members want to remind everyone that any malicious damage done to another person’s property is considered mischief and is punishable under the criminal code. All citizens are encouraged to jointly participate in fostering safe communities by reporting any information on criminal activity.

Any information received can be reported in confidence by contacting an RCMP officer at 780-672-3342 or through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

Look for us at the Trade Show, March 14-16 Shop, donate, volunteer!

Bid on unique DIY project items on display.

5007-46 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-4484 www.habitatcamrose.com

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 3

Rural economic impact growing From Agri-News Are you passionate about rural economic development? Do you want to learn more about the major economic and demographic trends impacting rural Alberta? Tired of not being able to find rural specific results for your region, community, or industry? Do you want hard facts that support your belief that rural Alberta matters?

A major update of the Conference Board of Canada’s landmark study on the economic contribution of rural Alberta was recently completed. Made possible by the investment of the Rural Development Division at Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, this is the most comprehensive overview of the rural economy available, and is a valuable tool for gaining insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping rural Alberta.

“The report continues to make the case for the importance of rural Alberta,” says Colin Gosselin, a senior project coordinator with the Rural Development Division. “Based on Statistics Canada data for 2009, rural Alberta contributed to $77.4 billion worth of economic activity in Alberta and Canada. More good news is that the economy and population of rural Alberta continues to grow overall.”

In terms of future opportunity, the Conference Board’s latest long-term forecast for Alberta predicts that two key sectors for rural Alberta – mining and oil and gas extraction, and agriculture – will post solid growth over the next 23 years. This bodes well for rural Alberta’s economic outlook. On the other hand, rural Alberta’s economy faces a major challenge – an aging population which will lead to weaker overall population growth going forward.

“The report concludes that any plans to ensure prosperity for rural Alberta must include the attraction and retention of people as a top priority,” adds Gosselin. “According to Conference Board research, this will take more than jobs, as those communities that also offer a high quality of life will be the most successful.”

For further information on the study contact Gosselin at 780-968-3518.

Hurry!

Only 3 lots left!

Lots are going fast!

Build Your Dream Home in Camrose’s beautiful Valleyv Valleyview Subdivision This premier residential neighbourhood has only three lots left.

Call us about featured lots, offering: • Outstanding views of Stoney Creek • Easy access to the picturesque ravine and municipal trail system

CALL TODAY! The City of

Camrose

Ray Telford Economic Development Officer, City of Camrose

rtelford@camrose.ca

•

Phone 780.678.3025

•

camrose.ca

The success of the 2014 Canadian Bull Congress was due, in part, to the hard work of the organizing committee. Left to right, front, are Bob Prestage, Rob Rolf, Stan Skotniczny, Darcy Wold, Steve Kushnerik, back left to right, Larry Young, Barry Ness, Dave Vikse, Randy McGowan, Gary Stordahl, Tracy Kushnerik and Will Pattison.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 4

2014 AUCTIONS • Saturday, April 12, 2014 Terrence Sych and the Estate of Clinton Sych, Gwynne

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• Saturday, June 7, 2014 – Ray and Dianne Blaeser, Strome • Thursday, June 12, 2014 – Ken and Verny Cox, Armena • Tuesday, July 8, 2014 – Allan and Irene Baird, Bashaw

We would be very interested in discussing your future auction plans with you. Please feel free to call. View sale listings and pictures at www.dougjohnsonauctionservice.com

Camrose • 780-672-1105

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- Mon., April 21, 34th Annual Spring Machinery Consignment Sale, Rimbey, AB - Sat., April 26, Unreserved Real Estate and Farm Sale for Dennis Olstad, Stony Plain, AB - Sat., May 3, Unreserved Farm Sale for the Estate of Erick Nielsen, Alix, AB - Sat., June 21, Unreserved Farm Sale for Dennis and Debra Martin, Lindale, AB Whether you have one piece or a complete line of machinery, give Allen a call at 403-783-0556 to discuss the best option for you to realize top dollars

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At a Feb. 3 Handivan meeting, June Rittamer, right, chair of the Daysland and District Handivan Society, received a $1,000 donation from Bruce, left, and Joan Robertson to go towards the purchase of a new handivan. Bruce also made another $1,000 donation on behalf of Robertson’s Trucking to go towards the purchase of a new handivan.

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Ladies help Hardisty toddlers

By Murray Green

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• Saturday, April 19, 2014 Todd and George Snider, New Norway

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The Hardisty Toddlers Inn Playschool will be hosting its third annual Ladies’ Night at the Hardisty Community Hall on March 14, starting at 7 p.m.

Money raised at the event will go toward playschool operations (teachers wages, crafts and activities supplies), maintenance (plumbing, etc) and taxes.

Ladies’ Night organizers are looking for items to be used for silent auction and door prizes. “Items such as gift certificates/cards/baskets, cosmetic/toiletry products, plants, candles, and books are just a few ideas,” said playschool treasurer Carmonie Jones. “We would like to have all donations in by March 12 to organize everything for the night. All donations to The Hardisty Toddlers Inn Playschool, whether monetary or not, are much appreciated by our students and parents.”

Hardisty Toddlers Inn Playschool is a parent-run, non-profit organization that relies on monthly dues and fundraising. “We’re dedicated to preserving a safe and fun learning environment for children ages three to five,” explained Jones. “Without the hard work of our parents and the support of our community and surrounding areas we would not be able to have such an enriching learning environment for our children.”

Along with some great entertainment, food, and silent auction/door prizes, the function will be helping support local home-based businesses with a “mini” trade show. For more information email carmoniejones@gmail. com or contact Carmonie Jones at 780-888-2717.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 5

Dietrich receives honour from Canadian Angus

By Murray Green Fifty-two Canadian Angus youth gathered in Calgary for the Guiding Outstanding Angus Leaders (GOAL) Conference hosted by the Canadian Junior Angus Association (CJAA) to promote leadership skills among peers from across the nation Feb. 14 to 16.

During the conference, $17,500 worth of scholarships and awards were given to Angus youth by the Canadian Angus Foundation (CAF).

Three new Foundation Legacy Scholarships totalling $10,000 were presented.

Five finalists were selected from 10 CJAA member applicants based on their applications and academic achievements. The finalists took part in a personal interview conducted by CAA members, as well as a moderated panel discussion on industry and association topics.

The winners of these three prestigious scholarships were $5,000 and first place to Patrick Holland of Montague, Prince Edward Island; $3,000 and second place to Katelyn Dietrich of Forestburg, and $2,000 and third place to Breanna Anderson of Swan River, Manitoba.

Holland is currently pursuing a career in pharmacy at Dalhousie University. As a current director of the CJAA and recent member of the champion World Angus Forum youth team in New Zealand, she has been active in the association on a national level.

Dietrich was thankful for her second-place scholarship award. She is currently enrolled in her third year studying education at the University of Alberta with hopes of finding placement in a small town teaching Grade 1 or 2. Last summer, Dietrich was a CAA summer marketing intern, travelling across Alberta to get youth enthusiastic about the CJAA. Dietrich credits the CJAA and Alberta Junior Angus Association for giving her the fervor for youth involvement.

“I believe that teaching is an occupation that will allow me to continue to be an agriculture enthusiast and share my love for youth programming,” said Dietrich. “I look forward to the future and all of the oppor-

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Anderson, the recipient of the third-place scholarship, is currently in her third year of Animal Science at the University of Saskatchewan where she is an active member of the judging team and Stockman’s Club.

The GOAL Conference promotes leadership skills within the Angus breed.

Junior members from all over the country attend this three-day event held in a different location each year.

During the event, juniors hear from nationally recognized speakers, participate in workshops designed to improve their leadership skills, get involved in teamwork activities, and develop beef and industry knowledge. Participants are also given the opportunity to network and socialize with fellow junior angus members.

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Canadian Angus awarded three scholarships to, from let to right, Patrick Holland of Montague, Prince Edward Island, Katelyn Dietrich of Forestburg and Breanna Anderson of Swan River, Manitoba.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 6

Dr. Fankhanel orders a spoon full of laughter

By Paytten Fankhanel, senior 4-H member

Paytten won the senior division of the Camrose 4-H District Public Speaking competition on Feb. 22 in Bashaw with “A Spoon Full of Laughter”.

I stand before you today not as Paytten Fankhanel, but as Dr. Fankhanel, and I would like to prescribe to all of you today “A Spoonful of Laughter.” I am sure you have all heard the cliché laughter is the best medicine? News Flash – its true - It affects us emotionally, physically, and socially.

Madame chairman, honorable judges, ladies and gentlemen, and fellow 4-H members.

Laughing is one of my favorite forms of entertainment. I always love a good joke. It brightens up your day and helps perk up your mood. While laughing is an enjoyable, and natural, body function, not everyone knows that it is very beneficial in regards to your health.

Laughter is definitely known to improve negative emotions. I know having a good hearty laugh always makes me feel better afterwards. It affects our mood and adds joy and enthusiasm to our everyday rou-

The top two winners in three divisions of the Camrose 4-H District Public Speaking Competition were, left to right, Halle Weinkauf of the Rosalind 4-H Beef Club, Catharina Brosinsky of the Bashaw 4-H Beef Club, Julie Tabler of the Hay Lakes 4-H Multi-club, Ashley Ganske of the Armena 4-H Beef Club, Lauryn Spenst of the Armena 4-H Beef Club and Paytten Fankhanel of the New Norway 4-H Club.

tine. It can relieve stress, anxiety, and fear. This is because laughter can shift your perspective. You begin to see the more optimistic side of things. It then helps us unwind and refresh and that helps you feel less overwhelmed. This gives us more energy to accomplish things.

Laughter also enhances

resiliency by giving us the strength to bounce back from difficult situations. Laughter is the best antidepressant we could ever take. In all circumstances laughing simply makes people happy by dissolving stressful emotions.

Laughter is very important in regards to your physical health as well. Even peo-

ple 2,000 years ago, knew the value of laughter. In the bible: Proverbs 17:22 states, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a persons strength.”

Today, scientists have been studying the physical benefits of laughter. They have proven that laughing boosts your immune system

I realize that most of you might groan when you hear the word “history” but I find the history of this animal pretty cool.

The Alaskan Malamute was named after the Inuit tribe called the Mahlemut tribe. There have been 20,000 year old ivory and bone carvings found that resemble today’s Malamute very closely.

This breed of dog was never destined to be a “race” dog due to its large build. They were the pack “horses” of the north, being able to carry a 50 pound pack, 20 miles a day.

Malamutes were used to track larger prey, such as bears,

and then help in the attack.

They also aided their owners in finding seals, by alerting them to seal blow holes.

These dogs have an immaculate sense of direction and could track prey during a blinding Alaskan snow storm and withstand an Arctic winter, with little food.

Malamutes will always be known in the development of the north and were a big help during the World wars as they transported ammunition, supplies and evacuated the wounded.

The majestic Alaskan Malamute has a luxurious, two layer coat that comes in

various shades of gray, black, red and white. Their markings vary but most Malamute’s have facial markings similar to a raccoon. They weigh between 75 and 90 pounds but can be up to 140 pounds. Wow, talk about gentle giants.

The Malamute is very similar to the husky in appearance.

One big difference is that the Husky’s eyes can be bright blue but the Malamute’s are a gentle chocolaty brown, never blue. The husky is also smaller in build, has a much higher energy level and a more excitable nature.

Some people think

programs in front of people.

When I take off the ice for a jump and hear the crowd cheering I pull in tighter from the jump to make a perfect landing.

I have four skating heroes that I look up to. Their skating accomplishments inspire me. My first skating hero is Kurt Browning. Did you know he was the first skater to land a quad jump? Did you know that he trained on the Bashaw ice? And did you know that one of his coaches has retired at Bashaw?

Scott Moir and Tessa Virtue are Canadian ice dance champions. They made history by winning an Olympic gold medal at Vancouver.

Now they won an Olympic silver medal at Sochi. In my view, they have the best edges in the world.

Ashley Wagner, from the US, is my fourth skating hero. She skates with determination and fire in her eyes.

She flies across the ice and was considered a favourite for a medal at the Sochi Olympics. She skated perfect and got sixth place. In my eyes she is a role model that wins every time. These four inspire me to fly across the ice.

I will be testing my Senior Bronze Skills in March. This is working on edges. I push myself hard and fast to have deep quiet edges and not fall.

In a couple of weeks, I will be testing my last Senior Bronze Dance. In dance, I test with a partner and am judged on timing, rhythm and the dance pattern. I take the hand of a man and we waltz around the ice together. It feels like flying on air

when I waltz on the ice with a partner. Don’t tell anyone, but sometimes I pretend my dance partners are closer to my age and cuter.

In free skate, I practice jumps and spins. I am working on double jumps. Two rotations in the air feels like flying. I also practice flying sit and camel spins. Notice that they are called flying spins.

The jumps and spins and speed of figure skating makes me feel like I am flying. Having a warm feeling when I step on the ice and hearing an audience cheer and clap is a feeling of flying. Figure skating is more than a sport to me. I fly in my heart and on the ice when I figure skate.

by increasing immune cells and decreasing stress hormones like adrenaline. Tests show laughter relieves stress and decreases pain by triggering the release of natural feel-good chemicals called endorphins. Have you ever laughed so hard your stomach muscles hurt afterward?

Chances are you probably burned some calories! Studies show that laughing 15 minutes a day, and not necessarily at the same time, can burn up to 40 calories a day, which can add up to losing four lbs, in one year! Who knew watching the comedy network could make you lose weight! Some of you may experience a feeling of relaxation after a good chuckle.

This is because laughing relaxes muscle tension for up to 45 minutes after laughing. One interesting fact I learned is that laughing actually can help fight heart disease by increasing blood flow! The way I see it laughing is a well-rounded workout that is motivating, fun, and free!

Laughing also affects our social demeanor. In a group, laughter comes naturally and the laughter shared has stronger effects on us, than laughing alone.

Continued on page 7

Ganske shares her story about ninety pounds of fun fur

By Ashley Ganske, intermediate 4-H member

Ashley won the intermediate division of the Camrose 4-H District Public Speaking competition on Feb. 22 in Bashaw with “Ninety pounds of fun fur”.

Good afternoon, honorable judges, master of ceremonies, fellow 4-H members and guests.

When I say 90 pounds of fun fur what do you think of?

I think of my Alaskan Malamute, Mya. She’s a dog that’s super fluffy, incredibly fun, 90 pounds (and the best friend I’ve ever had!) Today I’m going to introduce you to the wonderful Alaskan Malamute!

Brosinsky wins junior division with I Can Fly

By Catharina Brosinsky, junior 4-H member

Catharina won the junior division of the Camrose 4-H District Public Speaking competition on Feb. 22 in Bashaw with “I Can Fly”.

Have you ever thought you could fly?

Good afternoon honorable judges, ladies and gentlemen, and fellow 4-H members.

I can fly, but my flying may be a bit different than yours. I fly on the ice. When my blades touch the ice, I get a warm feeling and give it my best every day that I figure skate. I have a passion to be on the ice. That feeling makes me want to fly.

I skate fast. When I fly across the ice the world stops. It’s me in the spotlight.

I love performing free skate

because the Alaskan Malamute has the word “mute” in their name, that they are in fact mute but they are not!

Malamutes are just quiet dogs that rarely bark, but can growl, howl and our dog Mya gets everyone’s attention when she lets loose with her ”awoooh-woooh-woooh”. Malamutes, enjoy harmonizing soulfully with a siren, a diesel truck or a loud snowmobile.

Maybe now you’re thinking…the Malamute sounds great, but they are large and resemble a wolf…..will it be a good family dog? Well…let me share my favorite fact about the Malamute. As part of their role in the tribes, the Malamutes baby-sat the children while the older members were carrying out duties. These are affectionate, friendly dogs and they are definitely not a “one man” dog! To an Alaskan Malamute there are no strangers because they meet everyone as a long lost friend.

For this reason they are not usually the best option for a guard dog, however, their large appearance can be threatening to strangers.

If you commit to training these headstrong dogs, they will do exactly what you tell them (although we learnt that it may take some time and patience before they comply).

They are very loyal, devoted companions and playful on invitation.

The evidence is overwhelming…an Alaskan Malamute is truly an amazing animal and I hope you consider one next time you need a new family member!

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 7

FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER The owners hereby offer the following two parcels of land for sale by tender, subject to the existing reservations on title: Parcel 1: Meridian 4 Range 18 Township 44 Section 36 Quarter South West Excepting thereout all mines and minerals Area: 64.7 Hectares (160 Acres) more or less Parcel 2: Meridian 4 Range 18 Township 44 Section 25 Quarter North West Excepting thereout all mines and minerals Area: 64.7 Hectares (160 Acres) more or less The lands are located approximately 3 miles southeast of Kelsey. There are no buildings. There is one surface lease.

Tenders must be for the purchase of both parcels.

Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “McArthur Tender” to Farnham West Stolee LLP, Barristers and Solicitors, 5016-52 Street, Camrose, Alberta T4V 1V7, on or before 12:00 noon, April 4, 2014, and shall be accompanied with GST number and a cheque payable to Farnham West Stolee LLP in trust for 10 percent of the tender price.

No conditional tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted.

Tenders will not be opened in public.

The deposits of all unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to them by mail.

The successful tenderer shall be obligated to complete the purchase on or before April 25, 2014. The 10 percent deposit shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price.

For further information, or to view the property, please contact Donald McArthur at 780-373-2276.

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Continued from page 6

In fact, hearing the sound of laughter prepares our brain to join in on the fun, meaning that having a good chuckle actually attracts others to you! When we laugh with friends and family, a positive bond is formed. This strengthens relationships, enhances teamwork, and helps to dissolve any conflict. Laughter can bring people together during tough times. This past winter, my mom and I were stranded at the airport in Houston, Texas due to the plane having “technical difficulties”.

To make matters worse, our flight wasn’t the only one cancelled. Hundreds of people crowded the hallways, angry and panic-stricken.

Mom and I didn’t know what to do; the situation was out of our control. So, we began to poke fun at our misfortune and we started to giggle.

This attracted many people towards us who admired our optimistic approach and eventually, a complete group of strangers, created a bond of trust and friendship, just by laughing. Laughing gave us strength, hope, and courage, and made us feel better

about the situation we were in. We realized we were not alone and that everything would work out. My experience in Houston is proof that laughter can have a positive effect on our state of mind.

Learning all the benefits of laughing definitely makes me want to have more of it in my life. So how do we incorporate more humour into our daily routine? Here are a few tips. Start smiling more and use humour in conversations. Spend time with fun friends and move towards laughter. Try not to take yourself so seriously and laugh every now and then at your mistakes.

It doesn’t matter how you slice it, laughter is good for us, physically, emotionally, and socially. Whether your feeling blue, want to have better relationships with your friends and family, or you just want to feel better physically, laughing is a great remedy, overall. So don’t be afraid to just let your humor show every now and then. We should all just enjoy one another, and have a few good laughs. Doctor’s orders!

Rural development launches new blog From Agri-News

ARDN One is the Alberta Rural Development Network‘s rural blog that aims to give a voice to the people who have a real stake in rural Alberta development and to provide a more

engaging place for discussion. Through this new blog, ARDN hopes to see rural Albertans contributing their personal stories and ideas as well as commenting on ARDN’s work. The blog can be found at www.ardnone.ca.

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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 8

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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 9

AltaLink provides county with a power lines update

By Murray Green

Over the next 25 years Alberta will grow by a million people. Ed Toupin of AltaLink said his company wants to be prepared for the growth.

AltaLink brings power to customers in the Camrose County through a series of transmission lines. New lines will be built just east of the county, despite opposition from landowners. He spoke to council on Feb. 11.

“We have been providing electrical transmission for over 40 years. There are two things we are absolutely committed on doing. That’s keeping the lights on here in Alberta and building a strong robust transmission system to enable growth to continue in this great province of ours,” said Ed, AltaLink municipal relations manager.

“If there is one message to take from this presentation, it is that this strong and robust transmission system provides access to safe, reliable and cost effective energy to residents,” he added.

“There are four main components to Alberta’s electric system. They are generation, transmission, distribution and retailers,” Ed explained. Generation is where the power is produced. It could be coal, wind, hydro or gas. We can generate up to 14,500 megawatts. In any given day the peak usage is between 9,000 and 10,000 megawatts, so we do have a little bit of room.”

Transmission takes the power (between 69 kv and 500 kv lines) to substations and AltaLink is the service provider within Camrose County.

“Distribution is bringing the power to a designated area like towns and cities. Fortis is your distribution provider around Camrose County.

Retailers handle how you get your bill through EnMax, Direct Energy and Epcore.”

There are three key players in Alberta’s transmission industry. “AESO, or Alberta Electrical System Operators are the planners and they look at the whole system,” Ed continued. “The Alberta Utilities Commission, or AUC, is a regulatory body or governing body that regulates costs and projects. They can accept or deny projects. The Transmission Facilities Owners (TFO) are the owners and operators.”

AltaLink was formed in 2002 when TransAlta sold off the transmission portion.

AltaLink is the largest developer and manager of transmission infrastructure and it serves about 85 per cent of the province. They have 12,000 kilometres of transmission lines with 300 substations.

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The Heartland project was completed last December.

The western and eastern lines are now going ahead. “The eastern line doesn’t go through the county, but between Daysland and Killam areas,” said Ed. “What is interesting is that these will be DC lines that lead to a converter station.”

There are some transmission activities within the county such as the New Queensland Substation that is an Enbridge pipeline pumping station and the substation breaker additions that will taking place in the near future.

“The Heartland, western and eastern lines will be like a figure eight. The lines will be a competitive bid and will include a 30 to 40 year maintenance contract,” he said.

“I want to dispel some myths. I hear that these lines are built for export. Over the last 16 years we have imported electricity. Last year, we imported 30 times the amount we exported.

The growth is happening in Alberta. We are importing from B.C. and Montana. We are tied into Saskatchewan as well. The demand is in

Alberta and we foresee that to continue,” Ed informed the councillors.

“Another myth is that local generation is better. Well, where it is generated doesn’t really matter to us. Some of the plants may run at 85 per cent. We want everyone tied to the grid, so it runs at 99.99 per cent and that everyone has access to the grid,” said Ed. “We take our job seriously and we want to keep the lights on for everyone.”

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 10

Rural fire departments standardize training, equipment

By Laurel Nadon The Camrose Booster

Firefighter training and equipment is becoming standardized across the region after eight hamlets and villages have begun to coordinate their efforts.

Last year, under direction from the Disaster Services Committee, the regional fire services committee came up with a job description for someone who would coordinate the regions, with goals of increasing firefighter safety, simplifying training and cost savings.

“The whole idea was to bring a harmonization to the level of service to all of the municipalities involved,” said Paul King, assistant county administrator. “The biggest concern was the level of training and the way fire departments were doing things. We wanted to make sure the protection of firefighters was there and that when ratepayers called the fire departments, you would get similar service.”

Last April, David Zayonce was hired as the regional fire services coordinator and began working with fire departments in Hay Lakes, New Norway, Edberg, Ferintosh, Bashaw, Rosalind, Bawlf and Round Hill.

Previously, these regions all had individual guidelines to the operation of their departments.

“The priority was assessing each department, look-

ing at equipment, apparatus, level of training, budgets and historical information on calls,” Zayonce said.

He added that he defined a level of service criteria, began building relationships with the fire departments, and formalized New Norway and Round Hill’s levels of service. He has also taken over some of the administrative work for the fire chiefs and also helps them with budgets and capital purchases.

“Each chief has the ability to adapt part of the guidelines to suit them,” Zayonce said. “So far everyone has been receptive to what we’ve been presenting.”

Zayonce said that this new coordination of equipment and training adds to the mutual aid agreement already in place between the City of Camrose and these hamlets and villages.

He noted that equipment will be tested more often and that he will help the departments keep up to date with requirements. Thanks to the additional testing, breathing apparatus were discovered in one of the departments which weren’t usable. A thermal imaging camera was recently purchased in Round Hill to increase firefighter safety.

The coordination between departments has helped to foresee equipment replacement as well as training needs more readily. The cost for training has also

Red Deer foundation donates to Bashaw support services

By Dan Jensen

The Red Deer and District Community Foundation has awarded $4,000 to the Bashaw and District Support Services for a community social services planning and communication project.

The grant will be used to re-new the current Disaster Social Services (DSS) Plan for Bashaw and area.

Working together with the Town of Bashaw, Bashaw and District Support Services will work hard to ensure qualified DSS team members are trained and assembled, resource kits are complete, the response plan is updated and revised, and outcomes are communicated.

“Bashaw and District Support Services is grateful that Red Deer and District Community Foundation has validated its goal of ensuring the community is prepared to respond to any major emergency or disaster in their area,” said Bashaw and District Support Services program manager Lorraine Anderson.

Bashaw and District Support Services will be pursuing partnerships with Camrose County so that Bashaw is better able to sup-

port their neighbouring communities in the event of a disaster.

Bashaw and District Support Services is a nonprofit charity which operates on the belief that the Bashaw Community has the desire for self-improvement and self-sufficiency.

“Our mission is to sustain a high quality of life for children, families, and seniors in the community by providing supports and services, and direction to social programs,” said Anderson.

“Our 19 programs offer services available to the entire community. We have served the community of Bashaw for more than 35 years.”

The Red Deer and District Community Foundation is committed to growing a legacy for charities. Locally governed, privately funded, and registered with the Canada Revenue Agency, it is focused on creating and building permanent endowments that serve the central Alberta community. Its 360 degree granting philosophy caters to all sectors, from arts and culture to environment, seniors, community development and education.

Laurel Nadon, Camrose Booster David Zayonce is the regional fire services coordinator for Camrose County and has been working to standardize training, equipment and procedures across eight rural fire departments.

been reduced dramatically, as Zayonce is offering video link training to the departments. A pilot program in New Norway and Bashaw for Level 1001 training has begun with 24 students.

Before, this training would have required a one-week course in Vermillion costing $18,000 per firefighter, whereas now it’s offered over a series of regular training nights for the departments.

This has meant no costs for hotel rooms, mileage and meals for the firefighters as well as more time with their families and less time off of their full-time jobs to receive training.

King said that one of the biggest issues they identified right away was that most of

the departments had limited training budgets.

“What this allows us to do was to get way more firefighters trained for the same or less money. If you have a fire, you will notice better training, better equipment.

All of those things lead to better ability to fight fires,” King said. “The biggest difference Dave has made is in the safety of the guys on the scene. And we want all of our firefighters coming home every night.”

He also noted that through a Regional Cooperation Grant from the province of Alberta the cost for hiring this new position, as well as the salary, have been covered. The County has applied for a second year for the same grant.

“We’d like to see this position become the go-toguy for disaster,” King said, noting that Zayonce will be taking over as director of disaster services.

Zayonce has 26 years of experience with fire service, starting as a volunteer firefighter in Wainwright in 1988. He became a full-time firefighter in 1992 and was promoted to chief in 2002. In 2008 he became the regional fire chief of Beaver County, where he helped form the Beaver Emergency Services Commission – the first of its kind in Alberta. He is also the mayor of Viking as well as the regional director for this area for the Alberta Fire Chiefs’ Association.

Ralph Sorenson, left, presents a cheque for $300 from the Charity Garage Sale held at the Killam Agriplex last summer to Kim Wildeman, chair of the Camrose Friends of STARS. Sorenson and his wife, Jean, started the event as a one-day affair at their home almost 18 years ago at their farm, just north of the current arena, and had so much success with it that they decided to do another, then another. The one in July of 2013 raised approximately $14,000, which was split up between a number of worthy organizations, including the Camrose Friends of STARS and five different hospital auxiliaries. A total of $1,000 was given to the relief efforts in the Phillipines, an amount that was matched by the federal government.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 11

BRCF assists with Daysland facility costs

Financial Relief for Farmers Temporary Cash Squeeze Due to: • Slow Moving Grain?

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• Other Expense Planned or Surprise?

Battle River Community Foundation secretary By Reesor presents Daysland Mayor Gail Watt with $320 to assist with arena and Sunshine Drop-in Centre costs.

Submitted

The Battle River Community Foundation made a grant of $320 to the Town of Daysland. Battle River Community Foundation secretary By Reesor presented a cheque to Daysland Mayor Gail Watt.

The grant came from the Donald and Mary Ann Pfeffer Fund. That fund is designated to support both the Daysland Arena and the Sunshine Drop-in Centre.

The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support facilities, such as these, in East Central Alberta which benefit the local communities and have a positive impact on the future.

Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and

organizations that have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds are kept intact and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations.

Since it was founded in 1995 the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $2,250,000 to support important local facilities such as the Daysland Arena and the Sunshine Drop In Centre.

To learn more about the Town of Daysland, the Daysland Arena or the Sunshine Drop In Centre, call Kaylyn Genio at 780-374-3767.

To learn more about the Battle River Community Foundation please contact Dana Andreassen, executive director, at 780-679-0449.

Minister Horner responds to Alberta Auditor General report Doug Griffiths, MLA, Battle River-Wainwright

President of Treasury board and Finance Minister Doug Horner has issued the following statement regarding the Auditor General’s report on the department’s oversight of Alberta’s public sector pension plans: “We accept all of the auditor general’s recommendations, which reflect their analysis that was completed in July 2013. Since that time we have continued work toward improving the public pension system.

“I am pleased that the auditor agrees with us that Alberta’s public sector pension plans face significant

funding challenges that do need to be addressed. These defined benefit pension plans face the same pressures as those in other jurisdictions. People are living longer and collecting pensions for longer, the ratio of workers to retirees is changing and interest rate trends continue to be lower than in the past. These realities continue to drive up pension costs.

“The auditor has also found that the department has indeed completed significant research and analysis on plan design, governance and sustainability risks as part of our pension plan sustainability review. In

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addition, we have continued to consult with stakeholders since the auditor’s work was completed. I have committed to Albertans that every reasonable idea is being considered as we move forward with strengthening these pension plans for the long term.

“Our focus over the next two years will be on implementing pension reform changes, including the transition from government sponsorship to joint spon-

sorship by employers and employees under a particular plan. A new risk management system will form part of this process.

“As we finalize our legislation heading into spring session, our approach will continue to be moderate and fair to all plan members, employers and taxpayers. I have said all along the changes we make will not affect benefits already earned or change the core benefit formula. Changes

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are being made to ancillary benefits so that we can in fact protect the core benefits of these plans. It’s important to note that whatever changes are made, they will not affect benefits received by current retirees, including their cost of living adjustments.”

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the content of this newsletter I can be reached in my constituency office at 780-8426177.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 12

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PED virus concerns Alberta hog farms

By Murray Green

Hog producers in Alberta are nervous. Producers are urging everyone in the hog business to be extra cognizant of bio-security protocols to help keep the PED (porcine epidemic diarrhoea) virus away from this province.

Prairie Swine Health Services veterinarian Dr. Egan Brockhoff is encouraging pig producers to take a reflective look on all of their protocols because the virus has infected four Ontario swine operations.

The disease has been sweeping through the United States over the last eight months and Mexico has since banned imports. Now Canada is acting fast to contain the virus from spreading.

Protocols include cleaning transport vehicles.

“Make sure trucks and trailers coming to your farm have been properly cleaned and disinfected before they back up to your loadouts,” said Dr. Egan Brockhoff.

“When you open that loadout door you want to look into a beautiful, clean trailer.

We know the virus is spread through contaminated feces.”

This changes the focus on everyone entering hog barns.

“We’re asking them to leave their outside clothing and footwear in an area, and then as they transition into the barn, they’re putting on clean footwear and coveralls that are staying in the barn and staying clean,” explained Dr. Brockhoff.

“We have to understand that there’s always the possibility that this virus can come to Alberta.”

Early detection is going to be key to containing the virus to only a few Canadian sites. “If you see any change in loose stools, the diarrhea that pigs may have, or any significant vomiting, you want to get on the phone as soon as possible and start dealing with this virus,” he warned.

The mortality rate among young pigs is nearly 100 per cent and a young herd can be wiped out in a short time. For mature animals, the herd will be able to fight off the virus.

Dr. Brockhoff reassured that the PED virus affects only pigs. “It is not a virus that causes human health concerns. It certainly doesn’t cause any food safety or food quality concerns.”

The Alberta Farm Animal Care, Livestock Care Alert and Alberta Veterinary Medical Association ask that you phone the hot line at 1-800-506-2273 to report livestock care concerns. You can also call AFAC at 403-6628050 for more information.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 13

Hot topics showcased at livestock care conference Developments in farm animal care have never been higher profile or more important to success in today’s livestock and poultry sectors.

Producers, industry and other stakeholders can learn the latest on today’s progress and rapidly evolving developments at the upcoming Livestock Care Conference, March 26 and 27, in Edmonton. The annual conference is hosted by Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC) in partnership with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA).

“There is a new energy and fresh thinking around farm animal care that makes it not only one of the most important topics in agriculture today, but also one of the leading areas of innovation,” says Lorna Baird, AFAC executive director.

“The Livestock Care Conference is designed to provide everyone from individual producers to industry leaders with a unique forum to learn from leading speakers and participate in lively discussion to build a successful future. We encourage everyone with an interest in farm animal care to attend and be a part of the conversation toward new ideas and solutions.”

The event will be of interest to producers and industry, researchers, students, government and other farm animal care stakeholders, says Dr. Angela Greter, AFAC program manager.

“An important part of the conference is the opportunity to learn from one another and identify ways to work together.”

The long-standing conference has built a reputation as one of the leading events of its kind, typically drawing both speakers and attendance from across Canada, along with representation from the U.S. and internationally.

“The agenda this year has a strong focus on hot topics ranging from activist activities to consumer perceptions to leading examples of how producers and industry are taking charge,” says Greter.

The first day of the conference, on Wednesday, March 26, is focused on student activities and the AFAC AGM, followed by an evening welcome reception that begins at 8:00 p.m. The reception is also highlighted by a featured presentation on “Cultivating Connections: Social Media and Agriculture,” by Jackie

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The main agenda includes a special emphasis on major developments and issues on the front burner for livestock and poultry producers and their industries.

It begins with an AFAC showcase and welcome.

This is followed by featured sessions that include “Animal Health and Welfare: The Next Evolution,”

by Dr. Tim Blackwell of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food; “Activists are Taking a Multi-faceted Approach: You Should Too,”

by Kay Johnson Smith, president and CEO of the Animal Agriculture Alliance; and “Consumers and Animal Welfare: What They Think, What They Know and Why it Matters,” by Dr. Michael von Massow of the University of Guelph.

The agenda continues with a “Field to Plate” perspective by Frank Novak of Sunterra; “A New Way of Learning for a New Generation of Farmers,” by Jackie Northey and Sarah Wray of FarmOn; and a major “Industry Innovation Showcase” session featuring several case study examples.

Get complete details on the AFAC website at www. afac.ab.ca.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 14

"Father of Camrose" had a colourful life From Battle River Country, a History of Duhamel and Area

Francois Adam was born at Louvain in the Province of Dinant, Belgium, on January 24, 1857. As a young man he attended the University of Louvain for five years, graduating at the age of 25 with a degree in civil engineering, majoring in chemistry and railroading. His first job after leaving university was an engineering project involving the installation of a waterline 62 miles in length, connecting a fresh-water lake to a city on the coast along the Atlantic seaboard.

At this time he lost his mother and father and his only sister. Left without a single member of his family, despondent and dejected and in poor health, the family doctor told him that unless there was a miracle he, too, would die. In an effort to regain his health and to make the best of what future there might be, he spent the next few days following his visit to the doctor thinking about what he might do. The decision reached was to take a long trip, probably to Vancouver, and then back to New York.

On his way west in 1883 he arrived in Winnipeg at the time the C.P.R. was reaching into the Rockies.

He decided he would throw in his lot with the fast growing railway so he joined the company and assisted as a consulting engineer in the building of the roadbed through the mountains. He remained on the job until the last spike was driven at Craigellachie in 1885, but he found the work most difficult and hazardous.

For the next three years he traded for furs at Caracajoux Point on the Peace River, about 200 miles below the present town of Peace River. During each of the summers he took his cache to London, England, where he sold his furs and bought dry goods for each of the nine trading posts he had set up in the north. On each trip he would visit his old home town in Belgium.

On his return to Canada after his first trip, he happened to meet Father Beillevaire in Montreal and learned of the little trading post and mission at the Laboucane settlement.

Always a religious man, Adam was impressed with the little priest. Furthermore, he was anxious to settle down in a small western community where, among the inhabitants, would be a priest. It thus came about that Francois Adam established himself in the Laboucane settlement, setting up a trading post and getting into the business of ranching.

He bought 35 acres of land, very likely the plot of land on River Lot 14 on the river bank on the north side of Battle River. We assume this

was the property on which he settled as this was the only River Lot recorded in 1895 as belonging to Francois Adam and and containing exactly 35 acres. On this property in 1895 he had his home, 40 head of cattle, 24 horses and two hogs. This was the beginning of his ranching career.

On his third trip to London and Belgium in 1887, he met the lady he was to marry, and on his return to Canada sent her the money for the fare to the new land in western Canada. The couple were married by Father Beillevaire in the little mission church at the Laboucane settlement in 1887. Two turnips from the Salvois garden and two prairie chicken shot by the bridegroom appeared on the wedding day menu.

The dinner was enjoyed on the banks of Stoney Creek, somewhere in the vicinity of the present site of the City of Camrose.

pregnant and they were 18 miles from the nearest help.

Immediately, Francois dispatched a courier to Father Beillevaire, who quickly returned with two squaws to act as mid-wives.

On the third day after the arrival of the infant, Father Beillevaire became concerned about the health of the young child. The squaws informed him that the remedy lay in securing a louse. The mother was most reluctant to accept this remedy but when informed that she should not offend the squaws gave her permission to cure the baby in the manner prescribed by the midwives. A louse was finally obtained and dropped into a large spoonful of water.

The squaws then entered the house with the concoction, closed the door and threw the mixture into the fire.

Strangely enough, the remedy worked, as the jaundice which the baby had devel-

The grave marker of Francois Adam in the cemetery of St. Thomas Church. It was Adam's wish that he be buried next to his friend, Father Beillevaire.

Mr. Adam realized that living at his trading posts in northern Alberta was no life for his wife, so he disposed of his trading properties to the Hudson's Bay Company and began his trading and ranching enterprises at, or near, the Laboucane settlement.

While the happy couple made their home for the first year at Father Beillevaire's rectory, he soon moved to the new ranch at Pipestone Creek, near Gwynne. The story is told that while living at this ranch, Mrs. Adam informed Francois at breakfast one morning that she was going to be ill. She was

oped soon disappeared. The young infant born at the ranch at Gwynne was a boy, Ivan. In addition to Ivan, two daughters and five other sons were born, some of them at Duhamel. All of the children at the age of three years suffered from jaundice. Their skins peeled badly but the squaws were always equal to the occasion and, using herbs as medicine, brought them all back to good health.

Prior to setting up his ranch at Gwynne, Francois had established a fairly large ranch at Beaver Lake, near Tofield. However, he disposed of this holding, preferring

to be nearer his old friend, Father Beillevaire, at the new ranch at Crooked Lake, a short mile from where the hamlet of Gwynne now lies.

The ranch at Beaver Lake he transferred to Godfrey Steele, a brother of General Sam Steele of R.N.W.M.P. fame, in southern Alberta.

Francois Adam recalled the early settling of adjacent communities. The William Heightintons, the Hosarts and the Bosmans at Bittern Lake; some Germans and English at Dried Meat Lake; and, the Norwegians and Swedes in the New Norway district late in the 19th century.

In 1894, finding the land was being taken up too rapidly and that his ranching activities would have to be curtailed, he sold all his cattle and restricted his trading and ranching to his holdings at Old Duhamel. He acquired property on River Lot 20 as a homestead and erected a beautiful home on a high bench near the top of the hill on his old property on River Lot No. 14. The home was a beautiful structure, two stories in height with a sweeping veranda overlooking the valley to the south. The veranda was so constructed that it provided shelter from the sun during the warm summer days and protection from the elements during the long, cold winter nights. The Indians often came to this home to marvel at its dignity and glory, sitting on the river bank and viewing the house and the magnificent panorama below them.

The store on the north hill at the top of the river hill across from Old Duhamel and operated by Jean Baptiste Laboucane closed out and was taken over by Francois Adam. By 1892 Francois had moved his store operation to the Old Duhamel site on the south side of the river and operated it in the first post office west of Wetaskiwin. People from north of the river, from the east and west and south came to this tiny community to buy groceries, dry goods, and staples; to bring milk to the creamery; and to get their mail. Duhamel was really on the move.

When the C.P.R. line from Wetaskiwin extended east to reach the new center of Sparling, which shortly afterward took on the name of Camrose, Francois Adam moved with his family to the new centre, where the action was. As a civil engineer his qualifications and talents were soon put to good use in the new community.

While not overly engaged in the political arena, he did involve himself in a great number of activities. He advised the town leaders on how the new center should be developed and to such a degree that we can thank Francois for the very wide

main street we enjoy, as well as for its design to flow into the C.P.R. station at its northernmost end. He was also in the lumber business and developed a lumber yard second to none between Calgary and Edmonton. He was appointed a Justice of the Peace and his wise decisions were generally accepted by those with whom he had to deal. In general, along with George P. Smith, to whom Mr. Adam gives the credit for building up the struggling town of Camrose, Francois Adam himself is often credited as being the real founding father of this now fine city.

When the Grand Trunk Pacific railway was being run through Camrose from Tofield to Calgary, it brought an end to Old Duhamel as the new townsite was planned to develop about two miles south of Old Duhamel.

Francois Adam, however, became an employee of the company and his talents were employed to establish and plan townsites between Tofield and Calgary. He was also engaged in surveying and purchasing the right of way for the railroad company.

All of the Adam boys were excellent baseball players. As a youth, your writer often marvelled at their dexterity at the plate and in the field. When the writer grew a little older, he often played with, or against, teams with Hector behind the plate and "Frenchy" in the infield.

They were most certainly a fine group of young athletes and a credit to the Adam family.

Known for many years as the "Father of Camrose", Francois Adam passed away Wednesday morning, May 15, 1961, at the grand old age of 104. It was fitting that his death should take place at the Lacombe Home in Midnapore, south of Calgary, for the home was named after Father Lacombe, one of his friends in the early days of the west.

"He is survived by six sons, one daughter, twelve grandchildren and twentyone great grandchildren.

Remains are being brought to Camrose where funeral services will be held Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. from St. Francis Xavier Church, with Rev. Father MacDonald officiating.

Prayers will be said Friday evening at 8:00. Internment will follow in the Duhamel cemetery, following a wish of many years' standing that his remains be laid beside those of his warm friend, Father Beillevaire, who established the mission at Duhamel.... His death marks the end of one link in recent history, a life which saw the transition from oxcart to space flight, and from almost unsettled virgin prairie to developing metropolitan centers."

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 15

Battle River Bus offers a valuable service

By Murray Green

The University of Alberta Augustana Campus and student Nicole Ainsworth conducted a survey to gauge the service the Battle River Bus provides on a weekly basis from Bashaw to Camrose.

Camrose County and the Bashaw Bus Society partnered to bring the bus service and then brought Augustana on board to help with the project over the last three years.

“I wanted to be a part of this project because I come from a rural area and know about the transportation issues. It can prevent people from living in rural communities,” said Nicole, a fourth year student, in a recent presentation to County council.

“We came up with three key thing that might prevent people from riding the bus, and they are cost, current need and access to the bus route.”

In order to find the answers Nicole and a few volunteers phoned residents in the communities of Bashaw, New Norway, Edberg, Ferintosh, Duhamel and surrounding areas.

“We split the survey into two sections. One for people who have used the service and another for those who have yet to use the service,” explained Nicole. “We had a 15 per cent success rate with 122 surveys completed and over 800 phone calls made.

What made the administration of this survey difficult was the fact a lot of people were not home, or chose not to answer the phone.”

About 63 per cent of the people said they have heard of the bus service and, of those, 64 per cent indicated they heard about the service through the newspaper.

“As far as cost, 100 per cent agreed that the $10 fee is reasonable and affordable. With the question of if Thursday is the right day for the service, 97 per cent indicated it was the right day,” added Nicole.

When asked why they haven’t previously used the bus service, 71 per cent said they didn’t need the service. However, 83 per cent of the surveys reported that this service is needed in the communities. Of those who responded, 61 per cent indicated they would use the service in the future.

Seven people who ride the bus in Bashaw were asked about the level of service.

“They indicated that they ride the bus for grocery shopping and to make professional appointments,” said Nicole. “Other uses were socializing and that they had no other means of transportation.”

The users also said the service fee was reasonable and Thursday was the best

day. An alternative day of Wednesday was mentioned in the survey.

“About 81 per cent of those who had used the service before indicated that they have used it more than once,” said Nicole. “Everyone, 100 per cent were satisfied with the care they received and they would recommend it to friends.”

Other findings through the survey were misinformation of where they can be picked up and where they can go in Camrose.

“My perception of this topic is that this service is very much needed and appreciated,” said Nicole. “People are looking forward to using this service in the future.”

Battle River Bus is averaging five people per week.

The goal was for seven people a week, so the society will be looking for ways to increase ridership.

Reeve Don Gregorwich thanked Nicole for the information.

“We all know completing a survey is not an easy thing to do when people don’t want to pick up the phone and take part in a survey, so I admire you for all the work that you have done here,” said the reeve. “I think you had an excellent response.”

County administrator Steve Gerlitz told council that Nicole signed up for 50 hours and that she put in more than 250 hours into this project.

“This was to end for her in mid-December and she is still working on it, so kudos to her and her instructors,” said Gerlitz.

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Nominated

Jane Ross of the Association for Life-wide Living (ALL) informed council that the Battle River Bus Highway 13 Initiative has been nominated for a Minister of Transportation Innovation award.

“This is possible because of the partnership between ALL, the county and the community of Provost,” Jane said. “We have put together a working agreement with the Battle River Railway and it outlines what we are going to be doing with the railway.

We are going to be presenting our strategy to the minister of transportation. On March 18 we will be meeting with the Provost town council and we will have a stakeholder meeting.”

The third of a four year Blessing of the River Ceremony will be held on May 10 near Maskwacis (Hobbema).

“We are inviting council to attend the ceremony and for the reeve to be a part of the ceremony,” added Jane.

SITTING PRETTY

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Grandpa Neil Orr of Kelsey joined his daughter Melissa Langner and nine-month-old Maddyn to see the Stanley Cup at Scotiabank in Camrose prior to the Olympic Games. Maddyn enjoyed her view from inside the cup. Hockey players, students and fans of the game were allowed to have their picture taken with the cup and meet new branch manager Corry Peake.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, March 4, 2014 – Page 16

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