December 22, 2015 Country Booster

The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta 16 Pages – December 22, 2015

Photo by Sue Nelson

Always better – always better read

May your spirits be lifted and your faith renewed by the beauty of this wondrous season.

We are grateful to be part of our close-knit rural community. The kindness and support of good friends and customers like you make doing business a pleasure for us.

It is with heartfelt gratitude that our advertisers and all of us here at The Camrose Booster wish you and yours a simply inspiring Christmas and a healthy and prosperous new year.

Inside...

News Features…

A variety of merchandise and services: Farm equipment and supplies, vehicles, homes, real estate, greetings, and more!

2 Fundraising underway for Kingman Rink of Dreams . . . . 6 Residents speak out against changes to Range Road. . . 10 County council holds budget increase to two per cent. . . .

Visit our website: www.camrosebooster.com

Win a colour enlargement of your farm!

See page 12

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 2

THE SOIL REJUVENATION SPECIALISTS

Thank You

We want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We would like to extend a huge thank you to all of you whose auctions we conducted in 2015 and our loyal auction crowd!

WATCH FOR THESE UPCOMING 2016 AUCTIONS:

to Mayor Norm Mayer and all who joined us at our Grand Opening Celebrations on Saturday November 7th!

Congratulations to our Grand Prize and Door Prize winners: 3,000 acres of Best Farming System Products • Larry & Deb Prehn, Forestburg 2,000 acres of Best Farming System Products • Bill Leslie, Sedgewick 1,000 acres of Best Farming System Products • Dale Spiller, Camrose Kodiaks 2015/16 Hockey Season Family Pass • Doug Boden, Camrose Camrose Golf Course 18 Holes of golf for two • Richard Little, Daysland • Tom Leslie, Sedgewick • Jim Hillaby, Camrose

• Saturday, April 16 Luella Maves Whamond and Ken Bullock of Forestburg • Friday, April 29 Brian and Gayle Ganske of Wetaskiwin 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

DOUG JOHNSON AUCTION SERVICE LTD. Camrose, 780-672-1105

Camrose County council holds 2016 budget increase to two per cent

Restore Soil Fertility Improve Profitability

By Murray Green

Soil Rejuvenation Seed Germination Foliar Fertilizer Trash Accelerator

3301 48 Avenue Camrose 780.678.2829 bestfarmingsystems.com

BAWLF LEGION DONATION TO SPORTS PARK

The Ohaton Athletic Association thanked the Bawlf Legion for its donation to the Lloyd Sheets Memorial Sports Park revitalization project. The community is fundraising to upgrade and enhance the park to fit the needs of ball players from Camrose County and Camrose Minor Ball. Project helper Danielle Robitaille, left, Bawlf Legion member Asger Nielsen, Ohaton sports park director Gord Graham and project helper Kaylee Robitaille were present for the donation. The association has completed an overhaul of the bleachers and a new welcoming sign, and hopes to have the diamond in good condition for next season’s play.

Camrose County will be maintaining a high level of service in its 2016 budget.

It shows a projected two per cent increase in taxes that should be manageable for ratepayers.

The final budget will be passed in May. “I recommend to council that you approve the 2016 Interim Operating Budget with total operating revenue of $12,034,581 and total operating expenses of $23,938,802,” said County administrator Paul King. “The total estimated 2016 tax levy (operating) will be $11,904,221.”

Camrose County council also approved the 2016 Interim Capital Interim Budget with total revenues (own sources) of $10,244,902, total capital and project expenses of $11,661,584 and an estimated 2016 tax levy (capital and projects) of $1,416,682.

The County budget committee reviewed funding deliberations throughout 2015, and invited various community organizations to make presentations Oct. 13 and 21.

The public was invited to take part in the budget process.

Five libraries will receive funding: Camrose Public Library $100,542; Bashaw Public Library $11,658; Bawlf Public Library $6,246; Edberg Public Library $2,635; and Hay Lakes Public Library $12,000.

Council approved the recommendation from the budget committee for 2016 operating grants to: Camrose Chamber of Commerce $4,000; Camrose Tourism $7,650; Prairie Fun Days bus $2,500; Canadian Northern Historical Society $2,500; Meeting Creek Rail Station $1,000; Prairie Fun Days $4,000; Camrose and District Victim Services $1,000; Camrose Arts Society $100 (for fireworks on Canada Day); Kingman Museum $1,000; scholarships for Grade 12 students at all schools from $300 to $3,300; Pitch-in Alberta $425; Augustana scholarship $1,050; Bashaw Victim Services $300; Legions (Camrose, Bawlf, Bashaw) $300 (wreaths at Remembrance Day Services); Duhamel Campground $1,000; Festival of Trees star sponsorship $500; Battle River Watershed Alliance $3,345; Physician Recruitment and Retention Committee $2,000; sponsorship requests throughout the year $18,394; Bull Congress (Thursday night sponsorship) $2,500; and a school educational program.

Council also agreed to provide $1,200 for promotions materials, and $5,000 to the CRE for Growing Rural Tourism.

The total grant allocation to organizations is $69,065.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 3

Daysland

Sales Representative – Agronomist

Andrukow Group Solutions Inc., Leaders in Industry; an independent business, successfully striving to provide clients with solutions since 1976. AGSI supports farmers in Central Alberta in areas of soil analysis, fertilizer blending and equipment support. AGSI lives up to its promise of “Making agriculture, our clients and our people: better, stronger and proud of their professions”.

Andrukow Group Solutions Inc. is currently seeking a Sales Representative – Agronomist to work in assistance with our Sales Manager in Daysland, Alberta.

From Steve, Tracy and all the staff We would like to thank everyone for your continued support throughout the year. Thanks for being such great neighbours, customers and friends.

We appreciate your business and wish you all a very merry Christmas.

Herald Anger, Dayce Newman, Steven Kelch

Rhonda Kontek, Jeff Banack

Duties and Responsibilities: • Build client/customer loyalty • Develop new customers • Identify specific grower needs • Create targeted marketing programs • Exceed client service expectations Job Knowledge Requirements (knowledge, skills and qualifications): • 6 years of sales experience • College diploma or degree in Agriculture or related discipline will be considered an asset • Agriculture or Agribusiness background, interest and aptitude • Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a clean driver’s abstract • Microsoft Office Suite considered an asset

Ashley Szott

Laurie Mosand, Napoleon Lopez, Laurie Kontek David Brown

AGSI offers a unique and exciting work environment, an excellent total compensation package and the opportunity for advancement.

Sheldon Hall, Matthew Welda

Apply with resumé to chudson@agsiag.com or drop off in person to 45149 RR 164 Daysland, AB We thank all those who apply; however, only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

HEAVY DUTY PARTS PERSON

((2014) 2014) 014) L Ltd Ltd. td

PHONE 780.672.2273

5013-48 Street, Camrose • Fax 780.672.0556 Email: cmw1@telus.net

Steve Kushnerik, Owner

Must have trucks parts experience.

Diesel engine experience an asset.

Must have computer skills.

If you are interested in joining our progressive team, submit resumés by fax, email james@ontrackinc.net or in person to James Kuntz.

S / SALE ICE S K C TRU / SERV ECTION S T R A P L INJ DIESE

Merry Christmas!

Junction of Highways 13 and 21, West of Camrose

Phone 780-672-6868

Fax 780-672-7616

james@ontrackinc.net ontrack@ontrackinc.net

Drawing by Grace G.

Wishes warm and bright to you and your loved ones at this joyous time of year. We appreciate your support and hope you’ll drop by again!

HOLIDAY HOURS Closed Dec. 24, 25, 31 and Jan. 1 Hours: Mon. to Thur., 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, Fri., 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Sat. by appointment

Customer Driven Quality Focused LIONS DONATION TO BRAPS

The Camrose Swans and Roses Lions Club has donated $500 to the Battle River Animal Protection Society (BRAPS) for the care of rescue animals. Accepting the cheque from club treasurer Gloria Sharuga, right, and club member Trevor Van Leeuwen was BRAPS president Monica Rusnak.

Junction of Highways 13 and 21, West of Camrose ENGINE

Phone 780-672-6868 Fax 780-672-7616 james@ontrackinc.net parts@ontrackinc.net

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 4

DELIVERING MOW FOR YOUR MONEY

READY TO MOVE HOMES

Grand Prize Give-Awa ** y!

Suggested retail v $ 24,900.00 alue

FRoEwE er with

Riding Murchase ! * every p il value $ 3,499.00

Suggeste

d reta

*Purchase before January 31, 2016 and receive a ride-on mower and be entered to win the **Grand Prize tractor with front-end loader and rear tiller.

(780)871-6300 www.nlc.ca

Merry Christmas Council and staff of Camrose County, the Agricultural Service Board, Seed Cleaning Plant and West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill wish you and your family the best for a happy and safe holiday season Camrose County operations will be closed on the following dates during the holiday season: Thursday, December 24, 2015 . Closed at 12:00 noon Friday, December 25, 2015 . . . . . . .Closed Monday, December 28, 2015. . . . . .Closed Thursday, December 31, 2015 . . . .Closed Friday, January 1, 2016 . . . . . . . . . . .Closed

Transfer Site Hours – Regular Hours Will Apply Except: KINGMAN TRANSFER SITE

Saturday, December 26, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . Closed Monday, December 28, 2015. . . . . . . . . . . . Closed

KELSEY TRANSFER SITE

Saturday, December 26, 2015 . . . . . . . . . . . Closed

MEETING CREEK TRANSFER SITE Not affected

Regular office hours for all locations will resume Monday, January 4, 2016 3755-43 Avenue, Camrose, AB T4V 3S8 Phone 780-672-4446 Fax 780-672-1008 Public Works. . . . . . . 780-672-4449 Website www.county.camrose.ab.ca Email county@county.camrose.ab.ca

#1 Kam’s Industrial Park Highway 16 West Lloydminster, AB

Livestock lessons for ladies Agri-News

The 2016 Ladies’ Livestock Lessons winter workshop takes place Saturday, January 23, 2016, at the Weedon Pioneer Community Hall in Cochrane. It’s an opportunity to learn, socialize and connect with farming women. Topics to be covered include total stockmanship, ranch roping, grazing management and cattle/equine vaccinations. Registration includes meals, coffee and snacks.

Register online via Eventbrite. For more information, or for registration details, contact Carrie at Mountain View County Agricultural Services at 403-335- 3311 ext. 204 or via email.

Rural Crime Watch helping reduce, prevent crime

By Lori Larsen

The Battle River Rural Crime Watch Society has been successfully working with the residents of Bashaw, Camrose and outlying rural areas to reduce and prevent crime.

Through the generous financial support of Ember Resources, Enerplus and Canadian Natural the program is able to continue operating successfully.

Part of the funding is used to maintain an active website – http://brrcws.com/ – and Facebook page. Both offer information sharing with regards to the activities of the communities serviced.

The use of social media is an efficient method for reaching out to people within the communities and outlying areas and elicits quick responses to concerns.

For residents who may not have the technology, zone representatives for each division in the county receive weekly crime reports from both the Bashaw and Camrose RCMP detachments.

These reports are printed out and posted in prominent places such as post offices and restaurants so they can be read by residents.

The old method of information dissemination involved the phone fan-out system. Information was entered onto a computer which automatically dialed out to different telephones.

From there the information fanned out via telephone to respective areas and either someone answered or messages were left.

Prior to outside funding members had to go door to door to sell memberships, using up a great deal of manpower which could have been used more effectively trying to fight crime. Another drawback of this method was nonmembers did not get all the information.

Crime prevention and reduction is much more effective if everyone has access to all information.

Progression for BRRCWS is ongoing. The funding provided has gone a long way in assisting with this progression and providing the communities served by BRRCWS a degree of peace of mind knowing more time is spent focused on fighting crime.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 5

JOY, LOVE, PEACE AND HARMONY

See our impressive line!

FROM…

Wishing you every happiness this holiday season.

775

$

4944-50 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-2732 www.thesewingcenter.ca

QUALITY USED

BOOKS A FRACTION OF THE COST OF NEW • Buy • Sell • Trade HOURS: M, T, W, F, S, 10-6; Thurs. 10-8 5017-50 St., Camrose Ph. (780)608-1501

We are very proud to serve this fine community and wish all of our neighbours peace and contentment during this holiday season.

We thank you most sincerely for your trust in us.

John and Carmen Person Cam and Christine Parker Bart and Karen Orr Derek and Kathryn Robertson Bob Hanrahan Barrie Fenby Keri Vickers Mardell Olson

“Over 100 years of dedicated service”

CAMROSE AND DAYSLAND www.burgarfuneralhome.com

4817-51 Avenue Camrose 780-672-2121 Daysland 780-374-3535

Real Estate FARMS • ACREAGES • RANCHES

80 ACRES ON PAVEMENT F BAWLF AWLF LF – older o d r ttrailer NORTH OF D CEwit R ED IeCE RwIC new 40 40x60 x60x16 6 U h with home,,PR newer 40x60x16 shop two overhead doors and concrete floor. $360,000. S-80

HIGH PRAIRIE PASTURE LAND – six quarters deeded and four quarters government lease. $850,000. S-79 10± ACRES – on the south side of Daysland, suitable for acreage or highway frontage business. $150,000. S-81

A ND D IN 4 ACRES BARE LAND D YSL SPR SLAND LAN AN DE– RGreat GED at U pC aceEto o build 4 ACRES IN DAYSLAND – with DAYSLAND place IC IC R PLLA d hhome. Close to golf course and 1400± sq. ft. bungalow home with newly your dream renovated basement, large attached garage school. Asking $150,000. S-45 and heated insulated shop. $525,000.

60x150 INDUSTRIAL SHOP IN S-44 DAYSLAND – on 8.5± acres currently 4 QUARTERS – with serviced yard used for an earth-moving and gravel- site and some cultivated land on pavement hauling business which is available for sale between Sunset House and High Prairie. $480,000. S-86 by separate negotiations. S-83

SOLD

QUARTER OF RECREATIONAL NEW LISTING – 150± acres of grain paasture land lanndd between la b t we nCRyley and LAND – in Smoky Lake County with and pasture Uh RED R60ED Iith P PR en nR wIC iC hE 440x60 machin shh Holden with 40x60 machine shed, 3 year-round off-grid cabin. $525,000. S-64 dugouts. Great place to build. $270,000.

NEW LISTING – 1/2 section of good S-90 quality farmland north of Daysland. S-87 NEW LISTING – Acreage near Heisler NEW LISTING – Town lots for sale in with 4.99 acres. 1-bedroom year-around cabin and shop with overhead doors.

Daysland. S-92 $75,000. S-91 11 QUARTERS OF GRAINLAND NEW LISTING – Acreage with – south of High Prairie, AB with 1,100 meat processing business, remodelled acres cultivated and more could be cleared. home, shop and 2 quonsets on 7 acres 1,850 sq. ft. modular home. Great farm or between Daysland and Strome. $700,000. investment opportunity. S-76 S-92

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER – Camrose County pasture. SE-22-48-19-W4. This land is located northeast of Camrose just west of Round Hill and is subject to a Ducks Unlimited Conservation Easement Agreement. There is 160.03 acres total with a 4.72 acre non-habitat area which has no restrictions. This land is available for tender. We request you to deliver your sealed unconditional offer with a deposit cheque for 5% of the tender amount no later than noon on Friday, January 8th, 2016 to George Singer at Linview Realty. The offers will be opened in the presence of Linview representatives and the sellers. It is understood by all parties that acceptance/rejection of any offer will be solely at the discretion of the sellers. For more information, property viewing or bid forms please contact George Singer. S-93

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 email: gordie@linview.ca

George Singer

www.linview.ca 1.888.546.3070

780·608·6555 email: george@linview.ca

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 6

Kingman Rink of Dreams project fundraising underway

By Lori Larsen

The Kingman Recreation Association(KRA) has started fundraising for the Kingman Rink of Dreams overhaul of the community outdoor ice rink project.

The KRA’s vision for the Rink of Dreams is a year round recreation facility that provides not only the community of Kingman but surrounding communities a place for children of all ages to just come and play, whether it’s skating in the winter or an equestrian facility in the summer. Facilities such as this build on the spirit of community by bringing people together to a place intended for fun and enjoyment.

“We remember times imitating our favorite hockey player or figure skater as we danced across the ice or dreamed of riding a blazing fast horse in our favorite equestrian event,” said CDSS Rural Community Programs director Clarence Hastings.

“The Rink of Dreams is exactly that! An opportunity for children, families and our communities to again dream about the what if, the possibility, the opportunity to develop those skills.”

The current rink is one of the few outdoor NHL regulation( 200 feet x 85) sized rinks within the Kingman, Camrose, Tofield area. The rink is equipped with eight lights and a small temporary skate shack with power and heat.

However, it does, in its current condition, have some drawbacks. With a proposed budget of $313,000 for the entire rink project these drawbacks could be properly addressed, making the improved arena a facility usable for various functions and to users beyond the community of Kingman.

The base of the rink itself is not level, which makes the initial construction of ice very difficult, resulting in a slant to the surface. This also makes summer use challenging.

With proper surface material and ground preparation the rink could be used as an outdoor riding arena in the summer.

Trent Kenyon, one of the directors on the KRA

The current Kingman rink is not being used to its full capacity.

explained a vision for the equestrian use.

“We could take down names on our website of children wanting to get involved in barrel racing (as an example). If we get, for instance, six children interested, we could then find a coach and once a week for two months in the summer teach barrel racing.”

Having structured equestrian events, such as ranch rodeos, would allow for maximum use of the facility.

The proposed new design for the rink includes steel frame dasherboards, not plywood, and a puck board, a players’ bench and penalty box, installation of exterior bleachers, and a permanent equipment shed. There will be an overhang directly over the boards extending from the shed, keeping shoveling to a minimum.

At present the skate shack is not large enough to store the three point hitch Zamboni and does not have hot water, which is crucial for having a quality ice surface.

The new building will include an inside kitchen with serving area, skate lace up area, wheelchair accessible restrooms, a mechanical room, equipment storage room and a special use area.

KRA owns the land on which the rink is located and the maintenance and upkeep is all done by volunteers “We have a plan in place

for the long term sustainability of this complex,” said Kenyon. “Once it’s built it can be sustained and kept up and turned into a quality rink.”

Build it and they will come

“KRA has already received interest from teams in the Tofield area,” remarked Kenyon. “They said if we build it and we get quality ice they would love to come rent it and have a practice or game out there.

But the main purpose is for people (children) of the Tofield, Camrose, Kingman area to come out and just play for the love of the game whatever it is, hockey, figure skating or equestrian in the summer. Just not being tied to a schedule; just come out and play for the fun of it.

“When it’s not booked we want people to come and stay as long as they want. Like the old days of Wayne Gretzky in his backyard, come and hop the boards and just enjoy.”

How to donate

Donations to the Rink of Dreams can be done in a variety of ways.

To date the KRA has secured $50,000 from the County of Camrose Legacies Grant Program and $21,000 in corporate and private donations.

Rink board advertising is one of the main fundraising initiatives. The installation of the new dasherboards

will allow businesses, corporations, individuals or families to take out professional rink board advertising.

“We’re selling the rink board advertising for a five year term. The cost of an eight by three board will be $4,000 and a four by three will be $2,500,” explained Kenyon.

“That is how we are trying to generate most of the money.”

The rink board advertising offers other opportunities as well. Beyond the familiar advertising seen on rink boards, the KRA is encouraging donors to think outside the box or oval in this case. Rink board advertisement could be used by individuals or families who not only want to contribute to a good cause, but would like to share their own message with the community.

“Whatever fits the Rink of Dreams,” commented Kenyon.

The KRA hopes to solicit two celebrities for hockey, figure skating and equestrian as advertisement on rink boards.

“We would like to get two NHL players, two famous figure skaters, two cowboys or cowgirls. They can either purchase rink boards or maybe they will allow us to use their name, common signatures, claim to fame, career highlight and or favorite quotes,” said Kenyon.

“Potentially there would be six rink boards dedicated to this, which serves the purpose

of the Rink of Dreams. This may also help with corporate donors getting on board.”

Monetary donations can be made through www.ATBcares.com/donate by typing in “Kingman Recreation Association.” Donations made through ATBcares will be matched with 15 per cent additional funds from ATB Financial, up to $1,000.

Contact Kenyon at 780679-7903 if you wish to have your donation(s) go towards a rink board advertisement.

Donations can also be made by mail to: Rink of Dreams Project, P.O. Box 95, Kingman, AB, T0B 2M0.

All donations will be publicly advertised on the Dream Team donation board within the facility. Silver donations ($2,500 to $4,999), gold donations ($5,000 to $9,999) and platinum donations ($10,000 or more) will be recognized on a plaque, unless otherwise expressed by the donor.

Other charitable donations of material, equipment use, services and/or labour are gratefully accepted.

Kingman Recreation Association is 10 members strong and has been in continuous operation since 1939.

The volunteers perform a number of functions from mowing grass to putting in ice. The association also puts on a variety of special events throughout the year which help to maintain a healthy, vibrant and thriving community spirit.

This new arena is not just about improving the facility. It offers a dream for children of all ages to have a place to come and skate in the winter or ride horses in the summer. A place to go beyond the confines of scheduling and just have fun.

It will offer the Kingman, Tofeild and Camrose areas the opportunity to use an outdoor NHL size facility with professional rink board advertising similar to that used for the NHL classic outdoor games.

The planned construction start date is April 2016.

KRA encourages residents, businesses, corporations to be a part of the dream by donating.

Hortsnacks at Night focuses on human resources Agri-News

Hortsnacks at Night will be focusing on the human resources side of production in January.

“Kristen Cumming of Cantos Performance Management is passionate about agriculture and small business human resources in Alberta,” says Dustin Morton, commercial horticulture specialist, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.

“She’ll be sharing current trends in performance management including goal setting, providing feedback and generating engagement.”

The HortSnacks at Night Human Resources workshop takes place January 13 in Wetaskiwin.

“This series is all about improving producers’ bottom lines by getting timely business topics out in a quick, easy-to-learn way with lots of room for discussion and questions,” says Morton.

The workshop will run from 7-9 p.m. Register by calling the Ag-Info Centre at 1-800-387-6030 by January 5, 2016. For more information, contact Dustin Morton at 780-742-7571.

The Daysland and District Handivan Society recently purchased a new handivan for Daysland and the surrounding communities. The van was purchased with numerous donations and fundraising over the past five years. Board members from left to right, George Hetzner, David Lorenson, June Rittammer, Ernestine Ferris, Arlene Lohner and Dennis Loesch welcomed the new vehicle. Missing are Myrna Gibson, Jay Adams and handivan driver Lois Jones. For more information on booking the Handivan call 780-374-2527.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 7

Joy Peace Hope Love

Tammy

Health Happiness Harmony Prosperity

G or d

Ryan

Je n n

The only thing le to add is our gra tude!

Wishing you every happiness this Christmas season and beyond. We hope to see you again, soon!

Phone 780-672-9400

Fax 780-672-9556 1/2 km East on Highway 26, Camrose

Thank You! Hank

Darren

As 2015 comes to a close, we would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your tremendous support this season.

We look forward to serving you again next year! “Any size job welcome, big or small.�

Hank 403.783.1270 • Darren 403.704.0843

CHEQUES

at better than bank pricing!

Merry.

Bright.

Magical.

Joyous.

Healthy.

Happy.

Lucky.

Blessed.

Here’s hoping your Christmas is all that and more!

We will be closed Dec. 25 to Jan. 4

Vance

Kevin

R ic h r d a

R ic h r d a

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David

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Wow! Now that’s a body shop!

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4709-36 Street, Camrose 4

780.672.7231 www.autoshoppe.ca

BANK QUALITY, BANK SECURE ‌ Small Business Cheques 7.5� x 3.25� plus stub, black ink, white paper, numbered

500 cheques. . . . . $108.00 1000 cheques . . . $149.00

Personal Cheques All security features, unique background pattern to head off reproduction, copying and cut-and-paste operations.

80 cheques . . . . . . . . . . $25.95 120 cheques . . . . . . . . . $32.50 160 cheques . . . . . . . . . $35.00

BATTLE RIVER SHRINE CLUB DONATION

PHONE 780-672-3142

4925-48 STREET, CAMROSE

Photo courtesy of The Community Press The Battle River Shrine Club donated $750 to Flagstaff Victim Services. Presenting the cheque to Brenda McDermott, of Family Victim Services, were, left to right, Larry Duncan, Rick Forster, Dr. Sam Ogbeide and Roger Johnson.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 8

ON NOW AT CAMROSE REGIONAL EXHI 2015 Fiesta SE Sedan

2015 Focus S

1.6 L, auto, heated seats, MyFord Touch. #OLF553

2.0 L, auto, remote start, SYNC. #OLF636

15,999 15 999 9

MSRP MS RP $$21,014 21 014 $ INDOOR SALE…

Finance

$

MS $20 MSRP $20,614 0 6144 $ INDOOR SALE…

99 B/W x 84 mo.

Finance

$

19,864 19 864 4

99 B/W @ 0% x 84 mo.

2015 Fusion SE

2015 Escape Titanium 4WD

Leather, moonroof, NAV, autopack, Lane Keep, BLIS, heated seats. #OLF179

Moonroof, Navigation, auto park, remote start. #LTF565

27,999

MSRP $34,499 $ INDOOR SALE…

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PRE-OWNED INVENTORY – FULLY INS 2014 Focus SE Hatch, auto, alloys, heated seats, 25,000 km. #LG080A

13,990

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2012 Dodge Journey R/T AWD, V6, moonroof, leather 84,000 km. #TF435A

17,990

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2013 Escape SE

MyFord Touch, dual climate, heated seats, 56,000 km. #FE289A

18,990

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2014 Ford Edge SEL 4-dr., AWD, 25,143 km. #AFE375 . . . . . . . . . . . . $25,990 2015 Ford Edge Titanium 4-dr., AWD, 12,000 km. #AFF410 . . . . . . . $40,990 2014 Ford Escape SE 4-dr., 4WD km, 38,543 km. #AFE352 . . . . . . . . $21,990 2015 Ford Escape Titanium 4-dr., 4WD, 18,853 km. #AFF378 . . . . $29,990

2014 Fusion AWD

2014 Fusion Titanium

SE, moonroof, 2.0L, leather, 19,000 km. #ACF351

AWD, 19” wheels, Navigation, SYNC, 84,000 km. #ACE327

24,990

$

23,998

$

2015 Ford Expedition Limited 4-dr., 4WD, 23,807 km. #AFF371 . . $55,990 2014 Ford F150 Reg. Cab STX 4WD, 126”, 48,938 km. #AFE346 . . $22,990 2013 Ford F150 Crew FX4 402A, NAV, 16,075 km. #TE580B . . . . . . $37,990 2014 Ford F150 S/C XLT 145”, 26,436 km. #TF261A . . . . . . . . . . . . . $27,990

Online Showroom Open 24/7 www.lambford.com Richardson donates $1.65 million to 70 communities Submitted

Richardson International Limited donated $1.65 million through the Richardson Foundation to 70 different community projects and initiatives in 2015.

“Supporting and investing in our communities is an important part of our business and who we are,” said Richardson International president and chief executive officer

Curt Vossen. “Richardson has a long legacy of giving back and we are proud to do our part to help build stronger communities across the country.”

Richardson is proud to help support initiatives that have demonstrated support and funding from the local community.

“We want to partner with community organizations to help them build

that ball park, playground or splash pad that will enhance their community and make it even stronger,” says Vossen. “At Richardson, we are proud to be truly invested in the places that our customers and employees call home.”

Interested applicants are asked to submit detailed written proposals outlining the scope, budget and community impact of the project

to their local Richardson or Richardson Pioneer location for consideration. Based on recommendations from these locations, proposals are reviewed by the board of trustees of the Richardson Foundation, which meets three times a year.

As Canada’s largest agribusiness, Richardson is recognized as a global leader in agriculture and food process-

ing. Based in Winnipeg, it is a worldwide handler and merchandiser of all major Canadian-grown grains and oilseeds and a vertically-integrated processor and manufacturer of oats and canola-based products.

One of Canada’s best managed companies, Richardson has over 2,500 employees across Canada and the U.S.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 9

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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 10

Residents speak out against changes to Range Road

By Murray Green

Camrose County residents are opposing development of Range Road 200 between Highways 13 and 26 (correction line).

The County wants to improve the road to give truckers easier access to the Cargill Canola Crushing Plant.

“We feel this upgrade is not necessary,” said spokespersons on behalf of concerned ratepayers, who are currently gathering signatures for a petition to stop the road construction. “Secondary road 834 (Highway 56) serves the same purpose and is only two miles to the east. It has turning lanes between the intersections of 56 and north of Legacy Junction and the Highway 13-RR 200 intersection.

“We are opposed to the project because of the safety factor on the highways. Without proper turning lanes, it

will slow or stop traffic on Hwy 26, which will become a safety issue when vehicles will be trying to go at a normal speed and trucks are turning.”

The cost of the project is currently estimated at between $1.4 and 2 million and will impact local taxpayers.

Right Range Road 200 is gravel from the south up to an acreage. The rest, going north, is only road allowance or a trail, not an actual road.

“With the way the economy is the cost might be a factor, but the safety of trucks crossing Hwy 13 and 26 is the main concern,” said Rob Rolf.

“Maybe before we go ahead, we should look at how the traffic is affected when we have snow and ice on the road,” said Liz Rolf.

Highway plans are made for the future. “I understand the County has to plan

ahead,” said Rob Rolf. “The plant and intersection is so busy that if I’m coming at 5 p.m. trying to cross, I might sit there until 6 p.m.”

When Highway 13 was under construction to provide access to the Cargill plant, the traffic from the east was diverted to Highway 26 and then to Camrose. Many commuters from the Bawlf area still go north to Hwy 26 and then to Camrose.

“I imagine there will be more changes to the intersection coming up as the volume increases,” they said. “It’s new and there are approximately 90 trucks a day going to Cargill.”

“If they want to take the pressure off of Highway 13, by going to Highway 26, then there are bigger issues to consider.”

Ken Hildebrandt said a stronger master is needed, both by the City and the County.

“I would like council to hold off any decisions for a couple of years and study the situation.”

The bottom line for local ratepayers is simple. “In the end, we have to look at safety,” they said. “What is the safest solution to handle the higher volume of traffic between the County and the Cargill plant?”

Currently Range Road 200 north of Hwy 13 is used for a variety of reasons, including recreational activities.

“Construction would result in a total loss of wonderful green space that is currently inhabited by diverse wildlife,” said Liz Rolf. “Naturally occurring spaces such as this cannot be replicated once they are gone.”

Those who signed the petition to take to County Council cited delayed traffic flow due to the large volume

of railroad cars as a concern that could also get worse.

“In the winter time, and nobody knows this yet, it could take longer because the colder it is, the longer it takes for everything to work.”

Rob Rolf suggested having a marker up by Highway 56, saying the highway is closed for railroad car crossing so an alternate route could be found for emergency first responders.

“We know a long range plan is to have a north ring road. Let’s hold off on this project until we know what is planned for the north ring road and future infrastructure,” said Hildebrandt.

The petition against proposed construction of Range Road 200 will be on the Jan. 12, 2016 Camrose County agenda. The council meeting begins at 9:30 a.m.

County resident taps into goodness of honey

By Dan Jensen

Adding a single dollop of honey to a steaming cup of tea has long been regarded as one of the most effective home remedies for stubborn coughs or throat irritations.

“It has been called “liquid gold” since ancient times because of the hundreds of medicinal, therapeutic, cosmetic, and culinary uses,” says the website honey colony. “It is a natural antiinflammatory, which makes it good for reducing itch and irritation, and because it has natural antibacterial properties, you can use it on scrapes and small wounds to help prevent infection and aid healing.”

Recent research has shown that honey treatment may help disorders such as ulcers and bacterial gastroenteritis, and can help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease.

Ancient Olympic athletes would eat honey and dried figs to enhance their performance.

No wonder King Solomon said in the book of Proverbs “My son, eat thou honey, for it is good.”

Bittern Lake area beekeeper/apiarist Lowell Befus enjoys telling anyone who will listen about honey’s many benefits.

“I have noticed that since I started eating our honey that I have fewer problems with hay fever,” he said.

Befus started his beekeeping operation in partnership with his in-laws, Dave and Krist Hagen, in the spring of 2010.

“I wanted to find a way to maximize the land and be part of the bigger agricultural community so I did some research on it,” he said. “I knew I would

Lowell Befus is able to sell his Goodness Bee honey almost as quickly as it is put in jars.

have to bring in the in-laws because the labour is just too much for one person. It’s difficult to lift 150 pounds of honey out of a hive at fall time.”

Befus and the Hagens started small with just five hives, a number they have since expanded to 15.

“We really wanted to get an understanding of bee health and what was called colony collapse disorder,” said Befus. “We didn’t want to invest a lot of money only to see the bees die. Our plans are to expand even

more in the future as the funds become more available.”

The average hive produces anywhere from 125 to 150 pounds of honey, with one pound enough to fill a 300 ml jar.

“It takes a lot of bees to make that amount of honey considering that each bee only produces about an eighth of a teaspoon in its lifetime,” said Befus.

Honey gets its start as flower nectar, which is collected by bees, naturally broken down into simple

sugars, and stored in honeycombs.

“They use their long, tubelike tongues like straws to suck the nectar out of the flowers and they store it in their ‘honey stomachs,” says the Ford’s honey farm website. “Bees actually have two stomachs, their honey stomach, which they use like a nectar backpack and their regular stomach. The honey stomach holds almost 70 mg of nectar and when full, it weighs almost as much as the bee does. Honeybees must visit between 100 and 1,500 flowers in order to fill their honey stomachs.”

Once they return to their hives the bees pass the nectar onto other worker bees. These “house bees” chew the nectar for about half an hour, breaking the complex sugars into simple sugars which are more digestible and less likely to be attacked by bacteria. The bees then spread the nectar throughout the honeycombs where it turns into a thicker syrup.

They make the nectar dry even faster by fanning it with their wings. Once the honey is gooey enough, the bees seal off the cell of the honeycomb with a plug of wax. The honey is stored until it is eaten. In one year, a colony of bees eats between 120 and 200 pounds of honey.

Befus opens the hives early in the spring after insulating them throughout the cold winter months.

“We wrap them with R-14 insulation and the bees clump together for warmth,” he said. “The only feed they need is a little sugar water.”

Befus considers the multiple bee stings he has received just one of the “hazards” of the job.

“The worst was one summer night, probably in our second year of operation, when we went to put Queen excluders on the hives to keep the Queens in the bottom box where they lay their eggs,” he said. “I thought it was calm enough that we would be able to sneak them in quickly and that everything would be okay, but when I pulled up the box they got out and flew into my pants, which had a tear in them, and onto my one knee. I got stung pretty good that night and I was running around pretty good afterwards.”

Befus and the Hagens plan to be part of a swarm team next year which goes out to collect honey bee swarms.

“We will be doing it at no cost just so we can save the bees,” said Befus.

“Some people are afraid of bees, so to have someone local in the community who will come and pick up a swarm instead of just killing them is a great thing.”

Befus has found that most of his honey sales, which are done under the name Goodness Bee Honey, have occurred as a result of word of mouth advertising.

“We do attend farmers’ markets and have a Facebook site but mostly it is just people telling others about the product,” he said.

“The comment that we often get is that the honey we sell doesn’t taste anything like the honey that is sold in the stores. It is raw honey with all the enzymes and other good things that are removed in the manufacturing process still in it.

You can’t compare it at all to store bought honey.”

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 11

County increases water rates for next year

Come to Camrose for Christmas

The best of the season is here

By Murray Green

Camrose County established the 2016 metered water consumption rate at $4.75 per cubic meter at the Dec. 8 regular council meeting.

“This will be a blended rate applicable to all potable water systems throughout the County, including Braim, Ervick, New Norway, Duhamel, Ohaton and Armena. Round Hill and Kingman will not be affected by this rate as they receive services from the Highway 14 Water Commission,” explained County administrator Paul King.

Council had requested that all utility services move towards full cost recovery and that was confirmed during budget deliberations on Oct. 27.

“I move that the budget committee recommend to council that Camrose County continue to work towards full cost recovery for the provision of utility services, so those that benefit from the service pay for the service,” said councillor Trevor Miller at the time. He then moved to accept the new rates.

The increase reflects a $0.79 change in current water rates. Some areas of the County will then be close to cost recovery.

“New Norway, Ervik and Ohaton are getting close to cost recovery with this increase. Armena and Duhamel will take longer because those are newer projects,” said King.

“Next year do we increase across the board or go to the cost recovery amount?” asked councillor Krause.

Administration suggested they will look at that next year as some communities approach the cost recovery mark.

Council established the annual levy for wastewater services for 2016 for the Hamlet of Kingman at $376.42; Hamlet of Round Hill at $196.39 and the Hamlet of Ohaton at $418.24.

Fee for Service By-law 1348 requires that annually, before tax notices are sent out, County council establish the rates for wastewater services provided to the hamlets, which is then billed as a flat fee on the annual tax notice.

The County established the 2016 consumption charge for wastewater disposal at 50 per cent of the cost per cubic metre of metered water consumption for those services in the Hamlets of New Norway and Braim.

The Best Shopping

Enthusiastic Christmas shoppers flock from miles around to shop the unique specialty retailers, small businesses and box stores in Camrose. Our distinctive Main Street experience has it all – from original artwork, glamourous gowns and designer shoes to furnishings and decor to make your home wonderful for the holidays.

The Best in Performing Arts and Culture Arts and culture are vibrant in Camrose. The historic Bailey Theatre, Chuck MacLean Arts Centre and the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Performing Arts Centre, support diverse groups of performers and arts lovers.

Be sure to catch the special shows coming this holiday season.

The Best Outdoor Activities Camrose is considered by many as one of the most beautiful cities on the prairies, boasting an exceptional quality of life for both citizens and visitors. Natural corridors provide a picturesque backdrop for the City’s Urban Park System, over 30 km of interconnected, paved multi-use trails, including world-class Nordic skiing trails.

&

Ray Telford Economic Development Officer, City of Camrose

rtelford@camrose.ca

•

Phone 780.678.3025

•

camrose.ca

Bumble Beets Farm hosts webinar Agri-News

An upcoming Explore Local webinar will look at how a young farmer started and keeps a CSA (community supported agriculture) operation going.

“Four years ago, Sarah Preston of Bumble Beets Farm made the decision to start a CSA on her farm near Tofield,” said Karen Goad, farm direct marketing specialist, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.

“She started small by testing her CSA on a handful of friends, and grew each year. In this webinar, Sarah will talk about the ins and outs of getting started with CSA, growing a customer base, balancing

production with marketing, and how to keep it all going year after year.”

The webinar takes place on Jan. 12, 2016, at 9 a.m. It will be 60 minutes long and will include time for questions. There is no cost. To register, go to Webex.

“When registering, change time zone to say Denver as, unfortunately, there isn’t a choice for Alberta,” adds Goad. “It should default to Denver for future registrations.”

For more information contact Cindy Cuthbert at 780-538-5287 (for toll-free calling in AB, dial 3100000, then the number).

is published for Controlled Distribution

By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 12,660 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).

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.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 12

Why your insurance eggs should be in one basket.

With insurance, it makes sense to put all your eggs in one basket.

As an independent insurance agency, it’s our job to see that all your insurance needs are properly met. And we can serve you best when we handle your entire insurance program. Since we work with a variety of insurance companies, we can shop around to find the exact protection you need. You save time and avoid the confusion of dealing with several people for different kinds of insurance. It’s also easier to file a claim or change coverage limits because you have only one person to contact. We can handle all your life, home, auto, farm and business insurance needs. Contact us and see.

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The farm appearing in this photograph is located in the Camrose trading area. If you recognize it as yours, come to the Camrose Booster, 4925-48 Street, Camrose. You will be presented with a free 8” x 10” color enlargement of the photo.

• This week’s prize must be claimed

by January 5, 2016.

• This week’s Mystery Farm is sponsored by the businesses on this page.

CABINETS

“We Sell for Less Than Big City Stores”

Discover the benefits of Co-op membership!

• Is owned by its members.

• Stocks a full range of quality products, including our popular Country Morning meats and Harmonie and Co-op brand items.

• Has knowledgeable, friendly staff available to assist you with product and service information.

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• Supports the community.

The more you use your Co-op membership, the more you benefit.

Sign up for membership today! Be an owner … become a Co-op member!

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INSURANCE

Camrose Insurance Services Ltd. MICHAEL KELEMEN 5704-48 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-9251 Phone 780-672-2273

BUILDING MATERIALS

Hauser Home Hardware Building Centre 6809-49 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-8818

Add a flag to your farmyard We sell top quality, long-lasting flags – from Canadian and provincial flags to flags from countries around the world. Choose from many sizes to suit your specific needs.

4925-48 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-3142

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 13

EMPOWERING YOUR PERFORMANCE

AS A FARMER, YOU HAVE A LOT OF DECISIONS TO MAKE. DEKALB® 74-54 RR

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With every important decision you face on your farm, we’re behind you. And we’re ready to help you turn great seed potential into actual in-field performance.

Contact Andrukow Group Solutions, your local Camrose DEKALB dealer, today for more information on our canola hybrids.

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Marketing made easy workshop Agri-News

The Marketing Made Easy workshop takes place Jan. 20, 2016, at the West River’s Edge, 1875-River Valley Drive, in Fort Saskatchewan.

“This one-day workshop examines selling products at farmers’ markets

and beyond,” says Karen Goad, farm direct marketing specialist, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. “It’s a chance to uncover strategies for creating a lasting first impression, clearly identify your target clients and make them choose you.

“You’ll also discover

Let us pray that the true spirit of mankind – Its joy, its beauty, its hope, may live among us; That the blessings of peace be ours – The peace to build and grow; To live in harmony and sympathy with others, And to plan for the future with confidence.

which marketing, merchandising and display tools apply to your business, and will learn the importance of social media to help increase your profile and profitability.”

Speakers for the event are marketing coach Tad Hargrave, Jenny Berkenbosch, who owns and operates Sundog Organic Farm, and writer/editor Cait Wills.

Marketing Made Easy runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The fee includes GST and lunch/refreshments.

To register, call 1-800-3876030 by January 13, 2016.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 14

Bashaw Seed Cleaners agree to build new plant

By Murray Green

Bashaw Seed Cleaners Association members will be building a new plant next year.

Members voted on the new plant proposal, providing all the funding is in place, at their annual general meeting on Nov. 26.

Plant manager Bill Sinclair explained the options of staying with the old plant or building a new facility.

Member John Pearson made the motion to proceed with the build of the new plant within the proposed budget.

It is expected to cost about $6 million with approximately $3.5 million of that to be borrowed.

Camrose County councillor Jack Lyle reported to council on Dec. 8 that they have a one third interest in the plant.

“I move we contribute $1.5 million to the Bashaw Seed Cleaning Plant,” said Lyle.

Administrator Paul King informed council that they don’t have $1.5 million in reserves and it should be forwarded to the 2016 budget process. The debate on the plant financing will be brought back to the table at the Jan. 12, 2016 meeting. Administration was instructed to come up with numbers of what they have in reserves and if they can access any grant money.

Grain producers outside of the Bashaw area also use the current facility.

“I’m uncomfortable committing to this project when we don’t know if or where the money will be coming from,” said councillor Doug Lyseng.

“How many users come from other counties and have they been approached about funding as well?” questioned councillor Ken Krause.

Lyle reported they have not been approached yet. King suggested they may have to make a joint application with other counties, but said he wouldn’t know for at least three months if it would be granted.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Reg (pictured) and Teri Blackwell found that decorating an old grader with Christmas lights, a big Snoopy, Muppets characters and candy canes would be a good way to bring light and joy to the season. The Blackwells operate a farm near Bawlf.

RCMP set up roadblocks December 7

Camrose RCMP assisted Killam RCMP with setting up roadblocks at various roadways leading out of Sedgewick in attempts to catch a suspect believed to have been involved in an armed robbery at the Sedgewick gas station.

No injuries were sustained and the vehicle was not located.

This matter is still under investigation.

December 8

RCMP attended the scene of an motor vehicle collision involving a Toyota Tercel and Mitsubishi RVR. The driver of the Toyota was traveling north on Hwy 833 and attempted to pass traffic. Due to icy road conditions, the driver lost control, crossed into oncoming traffic, and drove into the ditch. No injuries were sustained.

December 10

RCMP have received multiple complaints about mailboxes being damaged and broken into in the areas between TWP 453 and RR 200. It is advised that residents check their mailboxes multiple times a day during the holiday season to minimize theft possibilities. Notify RCMP should your mailbox be damaged or you notice suspicious activity A report was received regarding a missing youth who had not returned home from school. Officers made numerous inquiries and were able to locate the youth who was in a safe location.

December 11

A call was received from the Hay Lakes Bottle Depot as the business had been broken into overnight. The approximate value of cash and recyclables stolen was $600. Due to it snowing overnight, no tracks were able to be photographed.

December 12

YOU’D BETTER WATCH OUT

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster You’d better watch out because you just never know when and where Santa is going to show up. He was spotted chatting with the young passengers of a car just outside AMA on Dec. 12.

A call was received from an alarm company for a business on Main Street in Hay Lakes. RCMP attended to find the business had been broken into but it appeared the thieves left upon hearing the alarm.

Footprints were obtained and this matter is still under investigation. RCMP responded to a second break and enter call at the Hay Lakes baseball diamond. A number of buildings had been broken into, but the only item found to be stolen was a computer from the multipurpose building.

RCMP also responded to one 911 hang up, seven false alarms, six dangerous driving complaints and seven animal related collisions.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 15

Misconceptions about Bill 6 from a small farmer’s perspective

By Shelley Erickson

To be clear, we are not anti-safety. We live and play in our workplaces. It is our family, friends, and neighbours

whose health and well-being is at stake on our property and we take that very seriously.

We have repeatedly heard Premier Notley claim that “stakeholders were consulted”. The Oxford dictionary states consultation as “meeting with an expert or professional in order to seek advice.” By this definition, stakeholders were not consulted. In meetings between government and industry groups, industry gave recommendations to exempt farms from WCB, giving them the option to voluntarily apply. Industry leaders requested further information and meetings to participate in creating regulations specific to agriculture, desiring to ensure avoiding any potentially crippling legislation. The recommendations were ignored on all fronts; in fact, nearly all of these stakeholders have published statements to clearly state lack of agricultural support and lack of consultation. Nor are current consultations led by NDP MLA’s true to the definition. It was asked at one such meeting: “Who is taking notes so you can present our concerns to your party?” The MLA’s embarrassedly looked at each other and shrugged. When we try contacting our MLA’s with questions we get a “thank you for your concerns.”

Calls are rarely returned.

We have also heard that this is about “making sure workers have the right to minimum wage and the right to refuse safe work.” However, federal legislation outlines basic responsibilities which we must comply with to protect our staff and, according to the Government of Alberta Industry Profiles 2015 report, the average farm worker is paid a minimum $15.38 up to $43.32, an average of $29.35, well above the $11.20 minimum wage requirements.

Another misconception amplified by the NDP is that Alberta is currently the only province that exempts farms. However, according to AAMDCs’ Environmental Scan of Farm Safety Legislation and the Association of Workers Compensation Boards of Canada 2015 report: farms are excluded from mandatory WCB coverage in PEI, Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Regarding OHS policies, farms in BC with less than 20 employees are exempt and all other provinces have industry specific legislation with many different exemptions for small farms as well as in their Labour Relations and Employment Standards legislation.

Finally, and possibly the most unfortunate and damaging misconception recently, is the implication that farmers have become violent and even gone so far as threatening MLA’s in favor of Bill 6. At least four MLA’s have made accusations that they have later mitigated, apologized for, or retracted completely but alas the damage has been done.

Now farmers are left with the daunting task of figuring out how this legislation will affect us, how we can make our concerns heard to a government who has proven they are not interested in listening, and how and if the family farm way of life is still a viable one for us.

SHINY,

Happy Holidays Hope your Christmas is merry and bright in every imaginable way!

It’s the little things that make the holidays special, like the moments we share with patients and friends like you. Thanks for filling our year with your visits. Serving you has been our privilege and pleasure.

SMITH CLINIC CHRISTMAS HOURS:

December 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon December 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed December 28 to 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

December 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30 a.m. to Noon January 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed

From the staff and physicians of the…

WALK-IN CLINIC HOLIDAY HOURS:

December 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

December 25 and 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed December 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

December 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

January 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Closed January 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

#1, 6601-48 Avenue, Camrose

LEGION EXPRESSES APPRECIATION

Camrose branch of the Royal Canadian Legion members Ragnar Gislason and Bob Burt presented Camrose County Reeve Don Grergorwich and the rest of council with a plaque of appreciation for assisting the Legion with the cost of building a new cenotaph in Camrose this fall.

Winterize your vehicle for a safe driving experience

By Murray Green

Canada Safety Council is reminding Canadians to make their driving experience safer with vehicle winterization.

One of the most beneficial preventative measures you can take is to install winter tires on your car.

Get four tires that are suitable for your vehicle, paying special attention to the mountain/snowflake symbol on the side to indicate that they conform to winter tire standards. Don’t wait for a huge snowfall to make the change. Winter tires should be installed when the ambient temperature drops below 7 C. This is when the rubber in all-season tires hardens

and starts losing the grip it offers.

According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada Winter Tire Report, only half of Canadian motorists (not counting Quebec where winter tire use is mandatory according to provincial law) use winter tires. Sixty three per cent of people surveyed were of the (incorrect) belief that allseason tires offer adequate braking power and traction for Canadian winters.

In addition to the installation of winter tires, basic maintenance of your vehicle is also of critical importance before the winter months are in full swing.

Make sure lights are all working properly.

Replace any headlights, brake lights or other lights on your vehicle if they’re not in working condition.

Especially in the winter, it’s important to see and be seen.

Ensure you have a fully-charged battery. In cold weather, a depleted battery might not be enough to start your vehicle. Have your battery tested before cold weather hits and be proactive in changing it for a new one before the old battery fails.

Know you’ll be able to stop safely. Winter tires are an important part of gaining traction when stopping, but you should

also check that your brakes are working well. If they are squeaking, creaking, feel odd or seem to pull, get them serviced.

Windshield wipers and washer fluid should be working right. Replace any windshield wipers that are streaky, as any accumulation of snow or ice could make visibility much poorer. Also, fill up on winter windshield washer fluid (-35 C or -40 C) and keep a second jug in your vehicle at all times in case of emergency.

Keep a brush and scraper in your vehicle.

You never know when you might need to brush snow or scrape ice off your car.

Be prepared for these eventualities and they won’t

catch you by surprise. Consider keeping a flashlight, too, as the extra light may prove useful on dark winter nights.

The Canada Safety Council has a limited number of ice scrapers available free of charge for interested motorists. Email csc@ safety-council.org for more information.

Driving in the winter always poses a new set of challenges to even the most experienced of drivers. Ensure that you’re well prepared to face the elements, leave yourself plenty of time and space to stop, if necessary, and avoid driving in poor visibility bad weather conditions entirely.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 22, 2015 – Page 16

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