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16 Pages – January 27, 2015
A few of the stars of the dinner theatre which gets underway February 6: (left to right) Gerald Pilger, Shirley Fairall, Shonna Burkard, Jacquie Badry and Andrew Little
A very talented cast of local amateur actors is preparing yet again for another rollicking production that loyal audiences eagerly anticipate year after year. The Great Kooshog Lake Hollis McCauley Fishing Derby, by Norm Foster, produced with the permission of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, is the play being presented at this year’s
23rd annual production of the Kelsey Dinner Theatre Investment banker James Bell gets stuck in the sleepy town of Kooshog Lake during the town’s annual fishing derby. It’s a fish-out-of-water story that becomes a quirky and hilarious fish-in-water story, complete with romance, broken hearts and a shark attack! As usual, tickets to the Kelsey Dinner Theatre have been in high demand. For current availability call 780-375-2418.
Inside... A variety of merchandise and services: Farm equipment and supplies, automotive, homes, financial, real estate, clothing, entertainment, employment opportunities, communications and more!
News Features… BRCF presents grant to Hardisty General Hospital Auxiliary Guild. . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Watershed Alliance offers advice . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 BRSD students learn about agriculture. . . . . . . 6 Rolling along Highway 21 with Bashaw Bus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 2
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From the urban park trail system to the Camrose recreation centre, Camrose offers an array of choices in sports and leisure activities.
Arts and Culture: From the local arts groups to the Jeanne & Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre, to the Bailey Theatre, Camrose supports and encourages the expression of your creativity. Careers:
From health care to the oil patch, Camrose acts as a regional centre that continues to flourish as the hub of east central Alberta.
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is published for Controlled Distribution By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 12,610 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, Round Hill, Kingman, Tofield, Ryley, Holden, Bruce, Viking, Kinsella, Irma, Wainwright (farms and lock boxes), New Norway, Ferintosh, Bashaw, Bittern Lake, Gwynne, Stettler (farms).
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HOSPITAL HELP
Battle River Community Foundation past chair Ken Drever presented a cheque to Shirley McFadyen, treasurer of the Hardisty General Hospital Auxiliary Guild. The grant will support maintenance of a salt water fish tank at the Hardisty Health Centre.
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BRCF presents grant to hospital auxiliary The Battle River Community Foundation has presented a grant to the Hardisty General Hospital Auxiliary Guild. The grant comes from the Cliff and Vickie Cullum Fund and the Roy and Lynn Fixsen Fund, both of which are for projects in the Hardisty, Lougheed or Hughenden communities, and from the Bricker Drever Fund and the David Creasy Memorial Fund, both of which are donor advised funds. The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support projects and organizations which benefit communities in East Central Alberta 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 which have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds are kept intact and the income is made available annually to support important facilities and programs. Since it was founded in 1995 the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $2,900,000,
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 3
Watershed Alliance offers its advice By Murray Green
Battle River Watershed Alliance (BRWA) planning coordinator Sarah Skinner provided an update of the local programs on which her organization is working to Camrose County councillors and administration on Jan. 13. BRWA is researching and planning with Water for Life: Alberta’s Strategy for Sustainability locally to provide a safe, secure drinking water supply; healthy aquatic ecosystems; and reliable, quality water supplies for a sustainable economy. The BRWA covers the Battle River and the Sounding Creek water basin. Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils (WPAC) report on the state of the watershed, lead in watershed planning, develop best management practices, foster stewardship activities within the watershed and educate users of the water resource. “We want to focus on having high water quality and quantity in our area. We also focus on education to improve stewardship of our watersheds,” said Sarah. “Phase 1 of the Water Management Plan for the Battle River Basin focuses on water quantity (water allocations and water licencing). Phase 2 is the Watershed Management Planning Process, which is led by BRWA and initiated in 2011. “The goal of this process is to work together to develop recommendations for how we want to see our land and water managed and then work together to make those recommendations a reality.” Since 2011, recommendations have been made in drought management, nonpoint source pollution and source water protection. This year BRWA is developing planning on wetlands and riparian areas. Sarah explained the A Guide to Action for Municipalities further. Non-point Source Pollution Management is broken down into agricultural management: grazing, crop, manure and fertilizer management; natural areas: protecting and restoring riparian areas and wetlands; and stormwater and waste water management. “We want the County to encourage agricultural producers to develop environmental farm plans, use best management practices and explore compensation for costs associated to it,” she said. Two other recommendations involve Ferry Point and Source Water Protection. “We want to work with landowners near Ferry Point to restore the riparian area. It shares how livestock can access water away from the river. We heard about some of the ideas that landowners had that they shared with us,” said Sarah. “Protecting the quan-
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 4
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Markets grow for canola industry Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz has announced an investment of up to $9.5 million to the Canola Council of Canada to support market development activities aimed at increasing the consumption and value of canola in domestic and global markets. The activities being undertaken in this project will help Canada’s canola industry meet its growth target of 26 million tonnes of sustainable canola production by 2025. This will be achieved through market research as well as developing international and domestic strategic partnerships, participating in conferences and trade shows, and developing recipes for canolabased healthy meals. “Our government continues to support what matters most to Canadians—job creation, prosperity and the economy,” said Ritz. “Our farmers grow the world’s finest canola, and we will continue to make smart investments that help our farmers stay competitive now and in the future.” The Canola Council of Canada welcomed the significant investment in canola market access and development. “With 90 per cent of our canola production destined for world markets, these activities are an integral part of boosting canola’s value and ensuring industry growth,” said Patti Miller, president, Canola Council of Canada. Quick Facts
The following positions are available for the 2015 season:
Clubhouse Manager The applicant must be self-managing and have strong organizational skills, customer service experience and be capable of managing the overall performance of the clubhouse and tournaments. Golf experience is not necessary but would be an asset.
Clubhouse Superintendent Applicant must be self-managing, have strong organizational skills, and be able to maintain equipment and irrigation systems. A background in turf management would be an asset. The Club is prepared to offer competitive wages in accordance with experience and education. Only short listed candidates will be contacted. Please email your cover letter and resumé to the President of the Daysland Golf Club at markpetiot@gmail.com Closing date is February 1, 2015.
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The Canola Council of Canada is a national, nonprofit association representing the entire Canadian canola industry, including growers, seed developers, processors, and exporters. Its mission is to advance the growth and profitability of the canola industry based on innovation, sustainability, resilience, and the creation of superior value for a healthier world. The Canadian canola industry contributes over $19.3 billion annually to the Canadian economy, including supporting nearly 249,000 jobs. Canada is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters of canola, a plant that is primarily used to make healthy cooking oil and meal for livestock feed. Canola oil contains the least saturated fat and the most plant-based omega-3 fat of all common culinary oils. This investment is being made through Agriculture Canada’s AgriMarketing Program, a five-year, up to $341 million initiative under Growing Forward 2.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 5
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 6
BRSD students learn about agriculture Close to 600 students from across Battle River School Division received a crash course on agriculture at the Canadian Bull Congress School Education Program last Wednesday. Along with learning about the calf birthing process and talking to a veterinarian, they were able to make bids at a simulated cattle auction, brand animals with their own hands, learn about electrical safety, try their hand at milking a (simulated) cow, and learn roping tricks from members of the Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame. The School Education Program has been a popular part of the Canadian Bull Congress for the last several years, but this year saw its attendance more than double. As a result, it will be expanded into a two-day program in 2016 with participation by even more agriculture producers.
Students in the School Education Program bid on a calf.
Parker Larin, from C.W. Sears School in Tofield, reaches into a model cow after listening to Dr. Jamie Whting (back) from Camrose Veterinary Hospital about the birthing process.
Shane Ellis, from ATCO Gas, shows students from Killam School a damaged gas line.
Ron Pedersen talked to students about how he got started in the auction business.
Avey Osterwalder, from Chester Ronning School, tries milking a (simulated) cow.
Krys Abby, from Killam School, tries her roping technique after a presentation by representatives from the Canadian Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 7
Are we meeting your expectations? What do you think of The Country Booster? Is The Country Booster valuable reading to you? Do you look forward to receiving it on a regular basis? Is the advertising in this publication helpful to you and pertinent to your home, family, farming operation or other business? Are we delivering news stories or features that contain information that is interesting and helpful to you?
How can we do a better job for you? This is your opportunity to provide honest feedback. Constructive criticism. Helpful advice. Opinions and recommendations. As you can well imagine, there may be reasons (financial, technical or otherwise) that some changes or suggestions conveyed to us may not be adopted. On the other hand, you may have a gem of an idea which will allow The Country Booster to become a printed product that is more valuable to you and even better received by fellow readers.
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 8
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Real Estate FARMS • ACREAGES • RANCHES
NEW LISTING – 1,140 40 +// sq. ft. 2 QUARTERS – of bare land for grain ddro droom roo oom om mC home hhom m R in in E Bashaw Bas with wiED at aattached or pasture. North of Killam. $625,000. S-51 4-bedroom C U D E I IC R P andd RV pparking. PR ge k garage $209,000. W-76. NEW LISTING - 80 acre farm with ouses. Beautiful Beautiful fu yard y rd and ya bui bu b two houses. buildings. ED LA – 2009 ACREAGE NEAR KILLAM UCnd IeCt wE nRCamrose PdRbetween atPR ated betwee bIC CED a d Stettler. S Located and ! t..R ±,E 3D bed/2 b U2Cbath bbaEhDmodular mo m 1800 sq. ft.±, 3-bed/2 home $380,000. S-70. on 13.7± acres. Asking $330,000. Call GRAINLAND Q QUARTER E – with George. S-32. D n! west of uurf urface faEeDllease reven ev $3,800 surface revenue, UCEreve Rrface 4 ACRES BARE LAND IN Viking. $290,000. 2990 000 S-63. DAYSLAND – Great place to build QUARTER OF RECREATIONAL your dream home. Close to golf course and LAND – in Smoky Lake County with school. Asking $175,000. S-45 year-round off-grid cabin. $525,000. S-64. 1/2 SECTION MIXED FARM – with beautiful 2-level home just north of Hwy 16 at Mackay, Alberta. $795,000. S-48
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If you are thinking of selling your farm or acreage, please give us a call. All replies treated in strictest confidence.
Hearing Is Believing Duggan Mall #43-6601 48th Avenue, Camrose, AB 888.589.8022 | www.hearingsense.ca
2015
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Monday, February 23 Holden Community Hall 4:00 p.m. Registration
– Everyone welcome to attend – Supper is FREE with a current Battle River Research Group Membership. 2nd person from farm unit can attend for cost of meal – $20 Membership: $20/year or $50/3 years
Guest Speaker s 2014 – The Good, The Bad and The Ugly BRRG staff Manjit Deol, Eric Neilson and Vicki Heidt discuss 2014 trial results, changes and other challenges faced by your non-profit Applied Research Association.
Guest – Bruno Wiskel Best Selling Author and Newspaper Columnist After graduating from the U of A, he spent 30 years as a consulting geologist, until he purchased a half-section of land north of Edmonton. He has grown his farming business from $30,000 per year to $300,000 per month by diversifying, inventing and implementing cuttingedge Ag and Marketing Techniques.
PRE-REGISTER BY FEBRUARY 18
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Gordie Fischer
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Snow packs normal after dry December From Agri-News As of Jan. 10, snow packs were at least near normal throughout most of the province, largely due to well above normal precipitation received throughout the month of November. However, December was drier and warmer than normal, with the exception of parts of southern Alberta and along the north western slopes of the Swan Hills. “The new year ushered in a complete turn-around as cold arctic air dominated the weather, bringing with it appreciable snowfall to many areas” said Ralph Wright, manager, agro-meterological applications and modelling section, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Edmonton. “So far in 2015, much of the west half of the province has received well over 15 cm of new snow. West-central regions between Olds and Grand Prairie were hit the hardest, with many areas along the foothills receiving over 30 to 50 cm of new snow. On Jan. 4, several stations north of Edmonton and a few in the southern Peace Region, saw the mercury dip to below -40°C.” The full report is available from Alberta Agriculture’s Agricultural Moisture Situation Updates.
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 9
Cobblers’ Annual Progressive
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Bull Congress had humble start By Dan Jensen
The first Canadian Bull Congress was a one-day event set up to focus on the commercial cattlemen. “The visionaries who started this event wanted to give the breed associations an opportunity to show commercial cattlemen the benefits that their breed could bring to the cattleman’s herd,” said Camrose area cattle producer Bob Prestage. “Each of the 14 breeds presented had the opportunity to display the champion animal of the breed and was given 15 minutes to tell the producers about the characteristics of the particular breed. This was not a competitive show but a comparative show.” The first guest speaker was Dr. Temple Grandin,
from the University of Illinois, who spoke passionately about cattle handling facilities and how to approach animals and move them in any given situation. In 1988, the Canadian Bull Congress moved to the Camrose Regional Exhibition’s new expanded facilities located on the east side of Camrose. The show was expanded to two days and encompassed not only breed booths, but a commercial trade show area and a private breeder area, allowing private breeders the opportunity to display their breeding program and make private sales to potential buyers. The third year saw the inclusion of two programs: the Taste of Beef banquet and the All Breed Steak Challenge, both of which
encouraged urban and rural visitors to enjoy top quality Alberta beef. Breeds participating in the congress were invited to prepare steaks for the judges and public to taste. The steaks were then judged on taste, tenderness and how well the breed marketed their product. In 1992, the Camrose Bull Congress became the Canadian Bull Congress. With a new name, a fresh image and logo, and an aggressive marketing approach, booth sales soared. “The banquet was renamed the Minister’s Dinner and the Honourable Shirley McLellan, associate minister of agriculture, actually helped serve the participants and exhibitors,” said Prestage. Continued on page 13
Theft of copper wire Sometime between 6 p.m. on Jan. 1 and 8 a.m. on Jan. 2, the Kingman Enbridge pump station was broken into and a large quantity of copper wire was stolen. The culprits are believed to be familiar with the site and the operation of heavy equipment. Left behind at the scene was a newer Honda generator and a Carhartt hoodie with Carhartt written across the upper back in white writing. If you have any information on this crime or any other crime, please call the Camrose RCMP at 780672-3342. If you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). Information can also be submitted online at www. tipsubmit.com. You may also send your tip via text message. Simply send your message to CRIMES (274637). Start your text with TIP205 so it will be sent to the proper authorities. This will be sent anonymously to Crime Stoppers and you will receive a confirmation reply. You do not have to reveal your identity.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 10
TechTourLIVE at CRE teaches race crew efficiencies Seeding, spraying and harvest – what do they have in common with a race car pit crew? The answer is lots. All are key high stress, short window, labour and equipment dependent operations that make or break a profitable year. The race car pit crew parallel has local growers revved up and registering at www.TechTourLIVE. com for the one day event on March 9 at the Camrose Regional Exhibition, hosted by Shaun Haney with realagriculture.com
and program partner Dow AgroSciences. Registered growers will get the opportunity to learn from two North American renowned professional business coaches to prepare their farming operations to run as efficiently as a race car pit crew in 2015. Management thinker and business coach, Donald Cooper, former vicepresident of Cooper Canada and of Cooperalls hockey legend, and Bob Parker, author and operational expert and founder of the
Pit Crew Challenge, will bring forward insights, challenges and advantages from their wealth of business experience to help local growers Get the On Farm Efficiency Advantage – the theme of the one day program. Visit www.techtourlive.com to register or for more information on the program. The day concludes with a TechPanel discussion. Industry experts and technology savvy growers will share their experiences and offer opinions on the
most useful and useable new farming technologies with a focus on efficiency and business innovation. Growers wanting to get the on farm efficiency advantage of a race car pit crew in 2015, should register now at www.techtourlive.com. The early bird registration savings ends Jan. 30. Dow AgroSciences is also providing a race car themed prize, two trips for four to a race in Phoenix this November. For contest details
and to enter growers can visit www.gotechtour.ca. Real Agriculture has grown to become the digital ag media leader in Canada serving farmers across the country with the best in agronomics, current events and farm show coverage through access to video, podcasts and written content. Real Agriculture’s content team spans across the country to make sure that farmers get “on the ground” coverage to keep informed and entertained.
Rolling along Highway 21 with Bashaw Bus By Marianne Schroeder, president, Bashaw Bus Society
Rural transportation is a big issue in rural Alberta. Access to available services has all but disappeared unless you live along the QE II Highway (north/south corridor). How are rural residents supposed to get around? Since 1986, Bashaw and area residents have seen a steady increase in this problem. That’s when local residents— assisted by Bashaw and District Community Services— decided to take action. We established a community-based transportation system in response to the pressing need for local transportation to get seniors and those without vehicles where they need to go. Being able to get to larger centres where services are available is very important. Rising to the need, our first vehicle was a van owned by the Town of Bashaw. Soon it could not meet the needs of our town, and the Bashaw Bus Society was formed to help address the increasing needs. In January 1996, a fundraising program was launched with the goal of raising $25,000 towards the purchase of a handi-van. When our fundraising efforts came up short, we sought help from the Bethany Group and were able to apply through them for a Wild Rose Foundation grant. They then remained as the registered owner, but the bus itself was governed and operated by the Bashaw Bus Society. Other progress was soon to follow. In November 1997, a 14-passenger, wheelchairaccessible bus for community use was purchased for Bashaw Bus Society by the Bethany Group. The purpose was to provide transportation for seniors and disabled people to appointments in and out of town as well as elsewhere for recreational and other events. Wheelchair accessibility is vital to families with disabled loved ones. Moreover, getting a disabled family member into a car is very difficult and also very uncom-
The Bashaw Bus Society offers transportation options for those who want to go to Camrose. The service may stop at communities in between. The bus route operates twice a month.
fortable for the handicapped rider. Not surprisingly, there is lots of wear and tear on our rural transport bus, which made it necessary to purchase new busses in 2007 and 2011 to replace those that were getting high in mileage. With a call to the bus office, anyone is welcome to use the bus to get around Bashaw for lab services, doctor appointments, shopping or just getting out for coffee on Tuesday
or Thursday mornings. We also get between 50 and 75 requests a year outside of regular bookings to provide transportation for medical appointments, special outings and hospital transfers. Since the beginning, Bashaw Bus has played an important part in the life of our own community and linking to other places. A Highway 21 route from Bashaw to Camrose has run
twice a month for several years on the first Monday and last Friday. During the last year, ridership has increased slowly, but surely. This is due in part to the Bashaw Bus advantage of already having an established route into Camrose that could be expanded upon. In this regard, a new phase began for us in May, 2013 when we partnered for one year with Camrose
County and Association for Life-wide Living (ALL) of Alberta to expand our service along Highway 21 to include Ferintosh, Edberg, New Norway and Duhamel. Like many other rural communities across Alberta, these villages have a significant number of seniors who no longer have even a grocery store. What are they to do? Moving to another place is not something they should have to do. Depending on friends for transportation is often the only option, and one that does not foster wellbeing. A reliable bus service helps give people much-needed independence. It’s difficult to get a rural transport system underway. It’s like the old saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” With the additional support from ALL and Camrose County during the Highway 21 project, we have been successful in getting more riders on board. But more time is needed to develop the needed system properly. We have learned that getting a regional rural transportation system underway in Ontario took three years. In that sense, we’ve just begun. It seems that one of the main problems is getting the necessary information about the bus out to the communities. However, once ridership is established, those riders tend to ride with us every week. Although Bashaw Bus might not be full all the time, there are other important rewards. Knowing that we have actually got a rural transport system “rolling” is reassuring. And when a client who boards the bus says “Thank You, I don’t know how I could get around without this service,” it makes me very glad to be part of such a worthwhile cause! Hopefully, there will soon be more ongoing support for an interconnected, regional rural transportation system in the Battle River area. Do what you can to support us in achieving this important goal. For more information, call 780-678-7884.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 11
Holiday concerts Farmers’ Bonspiel champions celebrated at Clearview schools Clearview Spotlight
Towards the board’s focus on moving forward in a positive way, see the Spotlight section on the Clearview web page at www.clearview.ab.ca. We continue to highlight exciting stories about students and staff throughout the division on an ongoing basis. Superintendent highlights
Superintendent Peter Barron provided a report on the work being done in the Clearview School Division, inspiring success for our students. He noted the exemplary work of staff in preparations for Christmas concerts in the past December holiday season. During the last week of school in December, he visited as many schools as possible to connect with staff and students. Superintendent Barron shared that there are three planned sessions for staff in Project Based Learning starting the end of January. Project Based Learning is very compatible with the vision of student-centered learning outlined in the Inspiring Education document. As well, he expressed his appreciation to the director of technology services, Steve Meyer, for reaching a milestone in our preparations for the movement to Gmail and Google Apps for Education. Both of these projects are critical to Clearview’s three year education plan.
The Camrose Farmers’ Bonspiel champions of the No BS Custom Spraying A event were, from left to right, lead Reg Enright, second Mike Hilhorst, third Matt Enright and skip Adam Enright. The event was held at the Rose City Curling Club.
Engagement
The board chair and superintendent have been invited to join other school divisions in our area for a meeting with the minister of education. During the meeting, Clearview Public Schools will have an opportunity to share our successes directly, and discuss how Clearview is moving forward with the Inspiring Education agenda. The board chair and superintendent will also share challenges we are facing and providing a perspective regarding Grade 12 diploma exam weightings. Exploratory process
Superintendent Peter Barron shared the work being done on the Stettler Schools Exploratory Process. Consultations with staff, parents and students began in October 2014 and have featured many great conversations to understand the current needs for our students educated in the Town Stettler, and how parents and staff would like to see Clearview address the best for our students. Staff, parents and students had the opportunity at meetings on Jan. 15 and 19 to give more insight on moving the vision for education forward. The main configurations being considered at this stage, which will comprise the vision for quality education in our schools, are: K-5 Elementary School; 6-8 Middle School; 9-12 High School; Outreach School (Status Quo); K-5 Elementary School; 6-12 Secondary School; Outreach School; K-6 Elementary School; 7-12 Secondary School; Outreach School. After the consultation sessions with parents, students and staff, the board of trustees will receive the full report on the consultations and recommendations of the superintendent of schools on Jan. 29.
Capturing the Andrukow Group Solutions B event were, left to right, Jenn Heiberg, second Ben Heiberg, third Sean Heiberg and skip Gord Heiberg.
Celebrating our staff
In Clearview, we celebrate Staff Appreciation week where we encourage parents and the wider community to recognize the personal and professional contributions that our staff make to children and their education. Clearview has dedicated staff members such as teachers, secretaries, teacher assistants, librarians, mechanics, maintenance, bus drivers, custodians and division office staff who support the work of educating students. In mid-February the trustees will participate in staff appreciation and take a token of appreciation to the schools in their ward. Staff Appreciation Week is Feb. 8 to 14.
Winners of the AFSC C event, from left to right, were lead Paul Allers, second Heather Bratrud (missing), third Andrew Evans and skip Neil Bratrud.
Upcoming engagement workshops
The board is hosting two upcoming workshops to help prepare for the vision of Clearview Public Schools and the 2015-16 operating year. On February 2, division leadership, school principals and trustees will meet to discuss the foundational statements for the Clearview Public Schools and the future of all our schools, including our mission, vision, beliefs and guiding principles. Later in the day, budget conversations will be started with these key groups and what is needed to build student successes for the 2015-16 school year. On Feb. 12, conversations will be shared between school councils and trustees, with a focus on best efforts and practices of school councils to help each other build capacity. Trustees discussed the great opportunities that are available for students in Clearview as we move towards the planning for next year. The next meeting of the Clearview School board will be held at 10 a.m. on Jan. 29 at the office in Stettler. Regular board meetings are open to the public.
Four rinks emerged as event winners at the Rose City Curling Club’s annual Farmers’ Bonspiel. D event winners, from left to right, were lead Wayne Marko, second Dustin Sand, third Neil Orr and skip Bart Sand.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 12
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 13
Bull Congress had a humble start Continued from page 9
In 1995, the pen of f ive c om mer c ia l heifer show was introduced, allowing commercial producers an opportunity to expose their females to potential buyers. The purebred producers saw the potential of this show and a purebred pen of f ive heifer class was added as well. The Canadian Bull Cong ress committee is very proud of how the show has g rown. “ Today, the Canad ia n Bu l l Cong ress utilizes all the facilities at the Ca mrose R eg iona l Ex h ibition,” sa id P restage. “ T he com m ittee is a lways work ing to add new a nd exc iti ng events to the show. The committee also works very ha rd to stay on the cutting edge of the cattle industry.” T he t rade show component of the Canad ia n Bu l l Cong ress g ives vendors marketing opportunities. The Canadian Bull Cong ress has had g reat support from sponsors, e x h ibit or s , p at r on s and volunteers. “ Yea r a f t er yea r they a re back,” sa id P restage. “ To u ndertake an event like the Ca nad ia n Bu ll Cong ress requires a huge amount of support from ou r sponsors. T hei r pa r t ic ipat ion a l lows us to make changes to the prog ram, which in turn, keeps the event viable.” I n the beg i n n i ng t he Ca n ad ia n Bu l l Cong ress gave loca l breeders a place to display and market their cattle. Now, the Canad ia n Bu l l Cong ress g ives this oppor tunity to many exhibitors f rom across Wester n Canada. “ T he Canadian Bull Cong r e s s i s n o w ma rketed not only l o c a l l y, b u t a l s o t o industr y members wo rld w ide ,” s a id Prestage. One to attend Canadian Bull Cong ress committee chair Dave Vikse said if he was able to attend just one cattle show all year it would be the Ca nad ia n Bu ll Cong ress.
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Wild Rose Co-op Woman victim of fraud January 16
A county resident was victim to a fraud after she allowed someone claiming to be with ‘Windows’ access to her computer. January 18
A white 1992 GMC Sierra was stolen from a back alley in Hay Lakes sometime between 9:30 a.m. and noon.
FORTIS PRESENTATION
Brent Bowie, from Fortis Alberta, spoke to students from Sparling School at the Camrose Bull Congress School Education Program Jan. 21.
January 19
A truck was entered and several documents and fuel cards were stolen. Determined a fuel card has been used at
several locations. This matter is currently being investigated. A large number of tools were reported dumped near an Enerplus wellsite. Police are investigating. January 20
Police received a report of a suspicious person in Bawlf. The individual was scared away driving a black dodge quad cab truck after attempting to steal a flat deck trailer.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 14
Showing appreciation
Camrose County to explore land use alternatives By Murray Green
The Kingman Marketing Group’s Grains for the Hungry project presented a certificate of recognition to UFA Farm and Ranch Supply for its support of the 2014 growing project during a harvest celebration in Kingman Nov. 15. Accepting the certificate from Canadian Foodgrains Bank executive director Jim Cornelius, right, and regional coordinator Terrance Barg, left, was UFA Farm and Ranch Supply representative Dave Trautman.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank executive director Jim Cornelius, right, and regional coordinator Terrance Barg, left, presented a certificate of recognition to Farm Credit Canada for the support it gave to the Kingman Marketing Group’s Grains for the Hungry project in 2014. Accepting the certificate was Farm Credit Canada senior relationship manager Lowell Befus.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank executive director Jim Cornelius, right, presented a certificate of recognition to Cargill East Camrose for the support it gave to the Kingman Marketing Group’s Grains for the Hungry project in 2014. Accepting the certificate was Cargill representative Thomas Mauthe.
Canadian Foodgrains Bank executive director Jim Cornelius, right, and regional coordinator Terrance Barg, left, presented a certificate of recognition to Crossroads Ag Products for the support it gave to the Kingman Marketing Group’s Grains for the Hungry project in 2014. Accepting the certificate was Crossroads Ag Products representative Herb deHoog.
University of Alberta, Augustana Campus Community Service Learning student Erin Specht presented an Alternative Land Use Services report to Camrose County council at a regular meeting on Jan. 13. The report was submitted by Erin Specht and Susie Chen and presented by Erin. “Farmers are the original stewards of the land. They have a connection to the land and native spaces on their property provide valuable places to the community at large,” said Erin. “They host wildlife habitat and wetlands on their property provide. However, they need the land for income. “We are hearing about a global shift towards environmental awareness and sustainable practices. As the world moves towards a more sustainable way of living, there is a role for governments to provide leadership and support on environmental issues.” Camrose County has recognized the need to improve its environmental stance as a leader in the community, and has been examining ways it might change current structures to allow for this to happen. “One way these changes can come about is through the restructuring of bylaws and guidelines,” said Erin. “Another way municipalities can promote sustainability is through the implementation of environmental programs. This is where our recommendation to council will focus.” Erin suggested that Camrose County take steps to incorporate the Alternative Land Use Services (ALUS) program into its current list of provided programs and services. The ALUS program is a national initiative that provides financial support to farmers who are taking steps to conserve natural areas on their land. “This program is a great fit for agriculture for rich counties like Camrose because there is a high potential for landowner participation and positive environmental impacts,” said Erin. From an environmental perspective, the ALUS program provides many ecological benefits like maintaining natural processes, protecting animal habitats, and improving aesthetics. From an economic perspective, the program provides long-term incentives to participating landowners, in order to
ensure the positive effects of their actions last into the future. In general, the ALUS program fits with Camrose County’s wish to address land use issues within their region and work towards a more environmentally-conscious structure. There are three counties in Alberta which currently run an ALUS program: Parkland County, the County of Vermilion River and Red Deer County. All three are located within the same natural region as Camrose and share a number of characteristics (lots of agriculture, similar climate and landscape conditions, common land use issues). “These similarities mean that Camrose can easily draw from other counties’ experiences, and can examine their various program structures to see what would be most effective for this region,” said Erin. “There are also similar projects that have been carried out in the county, which may provide information on how the ALUS program might be structured.” If Camrose County was to develop an ALUS initiative and get on board with this collaborative effort, it would have a voice in these discussions and be able to provide input on how the program can be developed. There are a few challenges that Camrose County faces in regards to incorporating the ALUS program into its current programs. “The first challenge is that of staffing,” said Erin. “Currently at Camrose County there is no department or staff position dedicated to sustainability or environment programming.” All environmental work is carried out by the agriculture department and fieldmen. Introducing a new program may strain the capacity of agricultural services. In addition, Camrose County has a fairly small tax base compared to other counties in Alberta, and is therefore limited in its ability to financially support additional programming. “We feel the challenges that Camrose County will face regarding the ALUS program may be addressed through national and local program sponsors and the assistance of potential conservation partners,” said Erin. “Additional funding from external grants is also available. This program will also provide a good supplement for the Source Water Protection
Plan that Camrose County has recently adopted.” ALUS is a program that was borne out of discussions with farmers about how to improve conservation in agricultural zones while still providing a space for productive farming. “It is described as a c om mu n it y- de velop e d , farmer-delivered program that provides support to farmers and ranchers to enhance and maintain nature’s benefits,” explained Erin. “The program’s goal is to build a healthy landscape that is sustainable for both agriculture and the natural world.” ALUS promotes reconstruction of natural areas on agricultural land. These areas include wetlands and riparian zones (riparian zones are the area of land directly adjacent to a water body), as well as native grasslands and forests. By maintaining the integrity of these areas, natural processes such as carbon sequestration, water filtration and nutrient cycling can function unhindered. In addition, wildlife habitat is preserved and biodiversity will be able to increase. “In order to provide incentives for maintaining and/or reconstructing natural areas, ALUS provides financial support to landowners who choose to carry out conservation projects on their land,” said Erin. “This support includes upfront assistance with project implementation, as well as annual payments for the area of land that has been conserved. “Annual payments ensure that landowners aren’t losing income that would have come from agricultural production, since they are set at rates comparable to local land rental rates. Essentially, farmers are being paid to provide essential environmental services that we all depend on.” Councillor Doug Lyseng questioned whether the staff member who would be needed to administer the project would be full-time or part-time. Erin explained that while there are several options available it is likely that a permanent part-time person would be needed. Landowners would have to apply to a committee which would then decide if the project should proceed and what length of term it should be. For more information on the Alternative Land Use Services initiative, visit www.alus.ca.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 15
Harper government investing in infrastructure Kevin Sorenson, M.P., Crowfoot
Building on the Government’s historic infrastructure investments, including under the New Building Canada Plan, Prime Minister Stephen Harper recently announced new investments that will continue to build and renew infrastructure across the country. This announcement is part of the Government’s unprecedented and historical investment in public infrastructure to ensure Canada’s future economic growth for years to come. The ability to invest this substantial amount in targeted infrastructure is a direct result of the Government’s responsible actions to return to fiscal balance.
“Our Government’s unprecedented investments in infrastructure, the most significant in our country’s history, have already yielded significant results for hard working Canadians and their families, ensuring the resilience of our economy and creating jobs. The new infrastructure support builds on the foundation necessary to promote future growth and prosperity in our great country, generating increased job opportunities, health and environmental benefits, and reduced commuting times,” said Prime Minister Stephen Harper. A few years ago, when our government fought off the effects of the global recession in Canada, we launched
the largest-ever infrastructure program in Canadian history. As your Member of Parliament, I will always remember the remarkable response I received from all across our riding as local mayors and other officials and staff worked with me and my staff to get “shovel ready” projects off the ground. We seized the opportunity to go ahead and work on local infrastructure projects – some of which were not slated to be started or completed until much later. It was a busy time for sure and again I can say that the efforts in many communities across our riding were impressive. In Economic Action Plan 2013, we continued to build
on our Government’s historic infrastructure investments, with significant funding for public infrastructure over the next decade, including for the New Building Canada Plan for provincial, territorial and municipal infrastructure. This New Building Canada Plan is now the largest and longest federal infrastructure investment in our nation’s history. It continues to focus on supporting projects that enhance economic growth, job creation and productivity. Canada’s prosperity and quality of life depend on a vast network of public infrastructure – from roads and highways, to bridges, transit systems, water and waste-
water infrastructure, ports, airports and recreational and cultural facilities. As Prime Minister Stephen Harper said, “We have the resources necessary to make this crucial investment in Canada’s future economic prosperity because of the bold measures our Government has taken to return to balanced budgets.” If you have any questions or concerns regarding this or previous columns you may write me at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, toll-free 1-800-665-4358, fax 780-608-4603 or e-mail Kevin.Sorenson.c1@ parl. gc.ca or visit https://www. fac eb o ok .c om / S oren son KevinA.
Ag Societies are a vital part of Alberta landscape From Agri-News
Agricultural societies and their association continue to be a vital part of Alberta’s landscape. “The Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies (AAAS) is a not-for-profit organization that is supported by volunteers and has a board of ten directors from across the province,” said Tim Carson, chief executive officer, AAAS, Edmonton. “Our association represents and advocates on behalf of the 293 agricultural societies across Alberta.” Carson said agricultural societies come in all shapes and sizes. “They come from the very large, like Edmonton Northlands and Calgary Stampede, right down to societies in the smallest of communities. Agricultural societies own and operate over 700 facilities across the province including hockey rinks, ski hills, rodeo grounds, curling rinks and much more.” Agricultural societies also can play a key role in helping during emergency situations. “Good examples of this would be how the High River agricultural society acted as a refuge and a base for recovery operations following the southern Alberta flooding, and how agricultural societies helped in the fires in the Athabasca-New Brook-Slave Lake region,” The AAAS Convention and Tradeshow takes place February 6 to 8 at the Ramada Conference Centre in Edmonton The conference will feature seven pre-conference sessions, 18 concurrent sessions, and a trade show. “Something new this year is that Alberta Agriculture Minister Verlyn Olson will be on hand to present century awards to the 22 agricultural societies that are 100 years or older,” added Carson. For more information on the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies, go to http://albertaagsocieties.ca/
WEINER ROAST
Bob Moss, of Cranbrook, warmed up by roasting weiners during a World Snow Day celebration at Miquelon Lake Provincial Park Jan. 18.
Website has tools you need to make decisions From Agri-News
An Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) project assistant said the department’s farm manager website has a number of tools that can be used by producers and processors to help them make the best possible management decisions. “The farm manager website is a great place for anyone that’s looking to market livestock or crops,” said Todd Bergen-Henengouwen, ARD, Edmonton “It’s easy to navigate and
relevant to both farm and industry.” The site covers topics such as: business planning business arrangements and taxation financial management transition planning risk management marketing “The financial management section, for example, discusses financial performance indicators and how they are important to the farms financial stability,” said Bergen-Henengouwen. “It includes examples of net
worth statements, income and expense statements, and cash flow statements. These examples can be used to help producers and processors understand the financial environment of their operation.” Also on the farm manager website are links to a number of different decisions making tools. “AgriProfit and CropChoices are available for free download. These can be a big help to both producers and processors in making management decisions.” The website also houses
the Agricultural Marketing Guide. “This guide can assist with making marketing decisions and in understanding some of the marketing tools that are available in the open market,” said Bergen-Henengouwen. The guide contains information on such topics as: how exchange and interest rates can affect an operation how futures and options markets can be used to effectively hedge the price of a commodity what basis is and how
it is important for storable products like grain the factors that influence basis levels “Overall, the farm manager manager site is a great stop on the web for anyone looking for new and different ideas for managing their farm or industry operation.” The Farm Manager site is located at www.agriculture.alberta.ca/farmmanager. The site will be also on display at the ARD booth at Farm Tech 2015, which runs from January 27-29, 2015, in Edmonton.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, January 27, 2015 – Page 16
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