January 17, 2023 Country Booster

THE BULLS ARE back in town

Canadian

Bull

Congress

Friday and Saturday, January 20 and 21

This year marks the 36th Canadian Bull Congress in partnership with the CRE. It brings purebred cattle breeders, exhibitors and the community together to take part in a spectacular showcase of incredible livestock. Whether in the main arena where the animals get primped and prepared or in the show ring where they strut their stuff, the Bull Congress is a great opportunity for anyone to come out and appreciate the hard work of our farm families.

See page 2 of this edition for full details including the two-day schedule of events.

Cattle of all breeds take to the show ring in Barn B during the Canadian Bull Congress at the CRE.

Photos by Lori Larsen

The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta

The Camrose Regional Exhibition welcomes back some of the best cattle stock in these and other parts for the

Canadian

By Lori Larsen

It’s that time of year again where some of the best of the best cattle stock strut their stuff during the 36th Canadian Bull Congress to be held on January 20 and 21 at the Camrose Regional Exhibition (CRE). Schedule

The show opens on Friday, January 20 at 9 a.m. with the first group entering the show ring at 11 a.m. including Junior Heifer Show, Single Purebred Heifer Show, 4-H Heifer Project Show, Showmanship Class and Junior Bull Show. The show closes at 5 p.m.

The show opens at 9 a.m. on Saturday, January 21 with stock entering the show ring at 11 a.m. including: Mature Bull Show, Pen of Three Bull Show, Ranchers’ Choice and Single Bull Show. The show closes at 5 p.m.

The City of Camrose is sponsoring the Exhibitor Breakfast on Friday, January 20 from 7:30 until 9:30 a.m., and Friday night’s networking event will be sponsored by ATB (tickets are required).

Camrose County will be sponsoring the Exhibitor Breakfast on Saturday, January 21 from 7:30 until 9:30 a.m. and a hot lunch will be sponsored by AFSC

(RSVP required).

According to Camrose Regional Exhibition and Agriculture Society Signature Events event manager Tegan Thompson, this year’s CRE 50/50 prize purse for each show has increased from previous years, so attendees will not only enjoy taking in shows of incredible livestock, but can purchase 50/50 draw tickets with the chance of taking home some extra cash.

The Bull Congress has been, and continues to be, one of the most attended agricultural events in the

Province, featuring purebred breeders, cattlemen with industry specific vendors. The event welcomes approximately 12 different cattle breeds and more than 7,500 visitors from across Canada and from around the world.

“The Canadian Bull Congress is designed for community, connection and commerce,” remarked Thompson.

For more information, visit the Canadian Bull Congress website at https://bullcongress.com/

website at https://cre.ab.ca/.

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster Beautiful bulls take centre stage in the show ring during the Bull Congress.

Every step counts

By Lori Larsen

Counting steps has been a growing health trend over the last decade or so and has proven to be a successful way for people to track physical activity without being overly invasive to their daily lives.

While many people may not be ready or prepared to dedicate hours at the gym or running for miles, almost every person without mobility challenges can walk, and daily walking is easy, accessible and inexpensive.

According to the Health Hub, targeting 10,000 steps daily (approximately 8 kilometres) is commonly associated with a basic level of fitness.

A recent study in the Circulation journal of data from over 20,000 people in the US and 42 other countries determined that taking between 6,000 to 9,000 steps daily is linked to a dramatically lower risk of cardiovascular disease in older adults including heart attacks and strokes, by 40 to 50 per cent.

The study further revealed that each additional 1,000 steps, especially for people currently walking less than 3,000 step daily, marks a substantial reduction in cardiovascular risk.

The incursion of fitness tracking devices has made it easy for people to keep track of, not only, the number of steps they take daily, but other health benefitting data including calorie intake, water intake, sleep activity and body vitals.

However, experts say that it is not that difficult to track one’s daily step counts even without a device. For example, a half mile equates to approximately 1,000 steps and brisk walking (considered to be a moderate-intensity activity) adds up to approximately 100 steps per minute.

Burning the fuel that fills us is another benefit to physical activity and according to the Health Hub it takes 20 steps to burn one calorie, therefore walking 10,000 steps burns off about 500 calories.

With a recommended daily calorie intake of approximately 1,800 for an average female and 2,200 for an average male, those

10,000 steps will burn off nearly a third or quarter of your calories.

With walking, something most people do subconsciously, there are ways to make your steps a little more fun or even a little more strenuous.

Consider the following suggestions to add a little fun to your walk.

• Add some music. Music can add a little zip to your step which can quicken your pace and increase your fat burn.

• Consider walking with a walking buddy or join a walking group.

• Choose walking over other options such as using the elevator, or taking the bus or driving.

• As you progress with your walking, add some other fitness challenges, such as push-ups at a bench, squats every 200 steps, or adding hand, wrist or ankle weights.

• Consider purchasing a raised computer desk that allows you to stand instead of sitting, and then simply step from side to side while working.

• Walk to co-workers’ desks or offices rather than emailing or telephoning them.

• Place garbage/recycle bins or printers a ways away from your desk so you have to get up and walk to them.

• Walk during your lunch hour and stand up while you eat.

• Park a distance from your office or at the furthest parking stall in the lot to get in more steps.

• Pace while talking on the phone.

• Join or encourage a step challenge in the office.

The benefits of walking include: maintaining a healthy weight; preventing or managing health conditions such as high blood pressure, cancer, type 2 diabetes, stroke and heart disease; improving cardiovascular fitness, strengthening bones and muscles, improving sleep and energy levels and your overall well being, both physically and mentally.

One might say that counting your steps and making your steps count is a “no brainer”.

Carlson Century Farm Award

By Lori Larsen

The Province of Alberta honoured the Carlson family farm from the Meeting Creek area with the distinction of Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award.

The Award was presented to Margaret Carlson by Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely on behalf of the Province and the family was also recognized during a Century Farm celebration hosted by the County of Camrose on November 5.

“This land (farm) was purchased from the CPR in 1912 by grandparents John and Betty Carlson, who had just arrived from Sweden,” explained Margaret, one of two surviving members (spouse) of the original family.

John and Betty had 10 children, Einar, Edna (Bergstrom), Herbert, Howard, Soren, Helene (Bergstrom), Edward, Linnea (Nelson), Arvid and Winfrid Allen (who passed away at the age of 1 in 1927).

“Establishing the farm and raising the children was an amazing accomplishment,” said Margaret.

Most of the children of that family have descendants who still live in the Meeting Creek and surrounding area, continuing the strong traditions and values of John and Betty.

After the passing of John and Betty in 1967 and 1968 respectfully, Arvid, John and Betty’s youngest child, along with wife Margaret, purchased the land.

As is often the case with Century farm families, the family members remained close together in distance which further solidified their bond as a family. Edward (Vivian) farmed across the road, Edna (Everett were located a half mile down the road, Helene (Gilbert) were one mile away and Howard (Eileen) were only six miles away.

The farm was pur-

chased in the mid-’90s by Arvid and Margaret’s children, Daren (Lynette) and Shelly (Carlson) and Marvin Collier.

“Roy and Bruce Carlson families have rented the land for the last number of years,” explained Margaret.

“We have been very fortunate to be in partnership with Roy and Bruce Carlson and families in supporting the farm and yard site,” said Daren during the County celebration. “Their efforts have made the farm a better place over the last 30 years and helped keep the traditions and memories alive.”

In remembering what it was like to grow up on the family farm, Daren related a few stories.

“Coffee was always on and as we grew up, it was a rare night that we did not have some family drop over for a visit. Family birthdays were celebrated for everyone by having the whole extended family come to the lucky house for a smorgasbord of food, including some traditional Swedish delights.”

Daren also recalled a few stories told by his par-

ents of the happenings around the farm during their time as children. “One that we remember was that they took a horse upstairs into the house while John and Betty were away. How they got it up the steep stairs and down again, I do not know.”

Margaret and Vivian (spouses) are the two surviving members of the original family and now live in Camrose.

“The family is very thankful to have received the recognition and commemorative plaque,” said Margaret on behalf of the Carlson family.

Daren concluded a thank you on behalf of the family during the County celebration with a thought that should resonate with us all.

“As we think about the history and lessons that we can learn from the past, it’s clear that the focus was all about family. And while no family is perfect, as we all know, there was an effort to be together versus efforts to divide, which we see so much in today’s world.”

Submitted

Margaret Carlson, left, accepts the Alberta Century Farm and Ranch Award from Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely.

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Camrose County Reeve Cindy Trautman presented the Camrose County Century Farm award to Daren Carlson of the Carlson family.

AIR SHOW

The Iron Creek Flying Club was proud to donate part of the proceeds from the Camrose Air Show yesterday at the STARS hangar at the Edmonton International Airport. Picture from left to right is Perry Swenson (paramedic), Lucille de Beaudrap (flight nurse), Alison Hagan (senior donor relations and Development officer), Kirk Hartmann (pilot), Tom Sliepen (pilot) and Doug Lindseth (ICFC president).

By Warren Ward

Soil nutrient analysis is like a balance slip from the bank. By checking the balance this fall, farms can set fertilizer rates specific to the needs and yield potential of each field.

Sampling in late fall instead of just before seeding gives the advantage of time. With results in the fall, farms have more time for fertilizer planning. Fertilizer prices can also be lower in the fall, but not always. With fall soil test results, the general benefit is that farms can plan their blends and rates, and buy the right amount of fertilizer at a lower price.

The best time for fall sampling is after soils cool to below 10C. Cool soils reduce the microbial activity that can mobilize nutrients.

However, soil test analysis may encourage a farm to use higher nitrogen rates to match yield goals or, in the case of high nutrient reserves, lower their rates. In these cases, profitability can go up with soil tests.

One composite sample per field can provide a general impression of soil nutrient levels. For the composite, take 15 to 20 cores from the most productive areas–not hill tops, not low spots, not saline areas. Divide each core by depths and put them into separate pails. Suggested depths are zero to six and six to 24, or a three-way split of zero to six, six to 12 and 12 to 24. Submit a separate sample for each depth.

With composite samples, farms can create fertilizer blends specific to the

This could mean six or more samples per field (two depths for three zones, for example), but this method can provide meaningful results for fields with higher levels of soil variability, and can point to the potential value of variable-rate fertilizer applications.

The new Canola 4R Advantage program provides financial incentive to soil test fields that have not been sampled as part of a 4R Nutrient Stewardship plan in the past.

Canola 4R Advantage, funded by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agricultural Climate Solutions–On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF), is a voluntary program that supports farmers

Wanda School on the move

Alberta’s government is helping fund the relocation of the Wanda School to the proposed Jeanne Lougheed Historic Park in Forestburg with a $275,000 grant.

Alberta’s early growth went hand-in-hand with the development of its education system. What is now one of the best educational systems in the world had a humble beginning–a oneroom school house. The first one-room school in Alberta was built in 1881. In 1905, when Alberta became a province, there were 562 schools in the province and most of them were rural one-room schools.

we’ve come and this makes the impossible seem possible,” said Ron Orr, minister of culture.

Jeanne Rogers was born in the village of Forestburg in 1928. She would later become Jeanne Lougheed, wife to former Premier Peter Lougheed. Jeanne Lougheed was a major supporter of the arts and a tireless advocate for people with disabilities.

Soil samples collected after this activity slows down will more closely reflect spring nitrate contents. If farms plan to band fertilizer in the fall, sampling when soils drop to 10C (but not too much lower) should allow for fall application–based on soil test results–before the ground freezes.

A custom-collected twodepth sample (0-6″ and 6-24″) plus lab fees will cost around $100. More samples collected should lower the cost per sample. Soil nutrient analysis may not provide a return on investment for every field tested–especially if results confirm that a farm is using the right rate to meet its yield target.

needs for each field. If fieldspecific fertilizer blends are not logistically possible, a compromise is to apply the same blend at different rates to match the yield goal for each field.

Zone sampling increases precision. Instead of one composite sample per field, submit composites for each productivity zone within the field. Zones are generally based on productivity differences that can be fairly predictable based on soil characteristics, drainage or elevation. Three zones could be hilltop, mid-slope and low-lying areas. For each zone, follow sampling methods similar to the composite sample technique.

in initiating or advancing 4R Nutrient Stewardship practices. Canola farmers can apply for funding to help pay for practices that can improve nitrogen management. Eligible practices include soil testing, enhanced efficiency fertilizer, preferred application timing and field zone mapping. Farmers can seek funding for up to two practices per year. Up to 85 per cent of eligible costs can be reimbursed–up to $12,000 per farm each year. For more on the program, including guidelines and application, visit canolacouncil.org/ 4r-advantage

RCMP search for armed robbery suspect

By Murray Green

Viking RCMP responded to a report of a robbery at the Viking Subway on January 10 at 8:30 p.m.

An unknown male suspect entered the Subway, displayed a firearm and demanded cash from the employee. The suspect then fled with an undisclosed amount of money in a white minivan. No licence plate was obtained from the minivan.

The suspect is described as light com-

plexion male with brown eyes, approximately six feet tall.

He was wearing a green toque, black mask, black coat with reflective striping, grey pants and black running shoes.

If you have any knowledge regarding this crime, contact the Viking RCMP at 780-336-3441 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPPS).

Many of the province’s one-room schools have been demolished, moved or left to deteriorate. Preserving the Wanda School will provide future generations with insight into the history of education in Alberta.

The Wanda School will take its place with eight other historically significant one-room schools that have been legally protected as municipal historic resources and provincial historic resources.

As part of its commitment to preserving and honouring our province’s culture and heritage, Alberta’s government is providing $275,000 to the Forestburg Community Development and Promotion Society to help preserve and showcase the Wanda School. The funding for the project comes from the Ministry of Culture and Status of Women’s Community Facility Enhancement Program.

“When you see the physical manifestation of history in front of you such as the Wanda School, it provides an education, but even more than that it inspires. You see just how far

The newly created Jeanne Lougheed Historic Park, with the relocated Wanda School as its centrepiece, will attract travellers from within Alberta and abroad. This tourist attraction will diversify and expand the local Forestburg economy, creating jobs and opportunity for residents while strengthening their cultural roots.

“This project recognizes the remarkable legacy of Jeanne Lougheed, a woman from the small town of Forestburg. I am so thrilled to have championed this project and I look forward to enjoying it when completed,” shared Jackie Lovely, MLA for Camrose and parliamentary secretary to the associate minister of Status of Women.

“We sincerely appreciate the support of the Government of Alberta in helping bring this long-planned project to life. This funding, combined with the kind support of the Lougheed Family, will enable a celebration of our past while creating a new travel and tourism corridor for the enjoyment and benefit of all Albertans,” said Dwight Dibben, of the Forestburg Community Development and Promotion Society.

The Wanda School being relocated, served students until it closed in 1951.

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster

Fields of yellow canola meet the horizon of the blue prairies skies just before harvest season in Camrose County.

Submitted

The Wanda School thrived in the rural area near Forestburg until 1951.

By Murray Green

RCMP hosting town hall meetings

By Murray Green

The Wetaskiwin/Camrose RCMP will be hosting town hall meetings in several communities.

“This is a great opportunity for the community members to learn what the RCMP is doing and to have

some of your questions answered. The RCMP will also be gathering feedback to determine what the priorities are for the upcoming year,” said Const. Cory Schultz of the Wetaskiwin/ Camrose RCMP Detachment.

Town hall meetings in the area include Millet on January 17 at 7 p.m. in the Millet Community Hall.

Camrose County meeting is on January 18 starting at 7 p.m. in the Camrose Regional Exhibition (Hirsch Hall).

CHASE THE ACE DRAW

Murray Green, Camrose Booster Chase the Ace’s Draw 32 lucky winner was Roxie MacMillan taking home $472. Roxie drew the Ace of Diamonds so the progressive jackpot carries on, moving forward $15,724. The Featured Charity, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Flagstaff County, also received $472. Pictured left to right are individual winner Roxie MacMillan and Daybreak Rotary Club of Camrose treasurer Morris Henderson. The charity library is in Killam. The Rotary topped up the donation to $1,000.

HOLDEN 4-H

Edberg Library launches move plans

By Murray Green

The Edberg Municipal Library is hoping to move from its present location to the old Edberg Fire Hall in the future.

Camrose County council received a request from the library to apply for Legacy Grant funding at its regular meeting on January 10.

“I move that council approve of funding in the amount of $33,162.75 under the County Legacy Grant Program to the Edberg Municipal Library for the relocation of the library to the former fire hall, subject to confirmation of the balance of funding,” said councillor Carlene Wetthuhn.

The key to the move is receiving further funding from other sources. However, with the promise of County funding, the library has a backing of plans.

“In the fall 2022, the Edberg Library approached Camrose County for funding assistance for the costs associated with relocating the SuperNet. In reviewing the application, administration suggested that they also include renovation costs of the space in the project scope. The revised estimates for the project are as follows: Supernet relocation $38,280, flooring for fire hall $8,271, building renovations $86,100. This includes a furnace, ductwork, bathroom renovation, framing, removal of overhead door, suspended ceiling, windows and associated mechanical, electrical and plumbing costs,” reported County corporate services manager Teresa Gratrix.

Funding sources for this project include donation $10,000, FCC $15,000, library contribution $23,200 and grants $84,451.

The Edberg Municipal Library is dedicated to the educational, recreational and cultural enlightenment of all members of the community and surrounding area, which it serves.

The Edberg Public Library is governed by trustees appointed by the village of Edberg. The current board chair is Kaye Innes and the library manager is Pam Fankhanel.

Submitted

The Holden 4-H Multi-Club volunteered for the Vegreville Christmas Bureau to sort gifts and toys that were donated by the community. The night was a great success. The Holden 4-H Multi-Club is proud to help the local community.