December 12, 2023 Country Booster by The Camrose Booster

The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta 8 PAGES | DECEMBER 12, 2023

Lifting spirits one at a time

Photo by Lori Larsen

Camrose & District Family Support Services executive director Lyndel Kasa, left, and K&K Recycling Services general manager Tony Thomsen get into the spirit of the Cookie Kits Program with a little cookie decorating of their own.

Inside...

A variety of Christmas greetings, services and more!

Win a colour photo of your farm! See page 8

News Features RCMP reminds drivers about dangers of impaired driving . . . . . 2 BRCF honours Flagstaff women . . . 4 Old seed cleaning plant abates asbestos . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Camrose & District Family Support Services is excited to once again be offering the Christmas Cookie Decorating Kit Program to anyone with a Camrose County, Bawlf, Bittern Lake, Edberg, Hay Lakes or Rosalind address. The program, sponsored in full by K&K Recycling Services, offers free cookie and decorating kits to anyone in these areas with the hopes of bringing a little extra cheer and joy to the Christmas season. For full details, see page 3 of this edition.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 2

From our Hom es t o Yours A special i l time i off year is even more special because of customers like you! Thank you for entrusting the Glover parts team, our mobile service trucks and techs, and our shop personnel to keep your miles trouble-free. Keeping you in uptime is our priority and privilege. Safe travels, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

CAL & STAFF Remember… As winter weather continues, we’re always here for you with our two mobile service trucks.

By Lori Larsen

…all the best during this cherished time of year! It’s been an honour to work with you and for you this past year. We feel blessed to have such a large client base. You are more than “customers”, but friends too! Please enjoy the holidays in the company of family this year. And we sincerely hope 2024 is full of good health, safety and prosperity. ~ Blaine and Staff

GLOVER INTERNATIONAL TRUCKS

3836-42 Avenue, Camrose Toll Free 1-800-232-1947 • Phone 780-672-7396 • Fax 780-672-6720

Experiencing the Servicing Dealer Difference 4716-38 Street, Camrose • Phone 780-672-2452

We’ve had a terrific year is published for Controlled Distribution By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 11,639 copies

…thanks to clients like you! Thank you for counting on the AMRAA team to be there with your parts, service and our dependable product line. – Staff at AMRAA

780-673-9593 WWW.AMRAA.CA HWY 13 & 56 • CAMROSE, AB

Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster Large billboards strategically placed by the RCMP on highways throughout the County remind motorists about the seriousness of impaired driving.

RCMP remind drivers of impaired driving

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 5 p.m.

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.

On Saturday, December 2, in support of National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day, officers were out conducting traffic enforcement initiatives and check stops, removing impaired drivers from roadways. National Impaired Driving Enforcement is a nationwide enforcement initiative aimed at not only removing impaired drivers but building awareness and educating the public on the dangers and consequences of driving impaired. The Alberta RCMP asks motorists to remember the following: • Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs is never okay. Impaired driving is both criminal and dangerous. • Mandatory Alcohol Screening is used by Alberta RCMP to deter and detect impaired drivers. If you are pulled over or at a check stop, you can expect to provide a breath sample. • Individuals with a Graduated Driver’s Licence must abide by the zero-tolerance law (Government of Alberta, 2023). • Impaired driving is always preventable and can always be avoided. Call a taxi or ride share service, use a designated driver, or stay the night. • If you are attending a party and have consumed drugs or alcohol, do not drive. Find a safe ride home, or a safe place to spend the night. • Party hosts aren’t off the hook. If your guest have been drinking or using drugs, make sure they have a safe place to stay, or a sober ride home. • Call 911 immediately if you witness or suspect impaired driving. “This December, and always, remember to enjoy the holidays responsibly. If you are attending a party, make sure you have a sober ride home, or a safe place to spend the night” reminded Sgt. Darrin Turnbull. “Last year, in Alberta RCMP jurisdictions, we responded to 233 fatal collisions, of which approximately 25 per cent involved alcohol or drugs. Alberta RCMP also removed 7,573 impaired drivers from Alberta roadways, that’s the equivalent of more than 20 impaired drivers per day.” For more traffic safety information, follow us on Facebook @RCMPinAlberta and Twitter @RCMPAlberta, along with the hashtag #DecemberToRemember.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 3

Christmas Cookie Kits

By Lori Larsen

There are a lot of things that are synonymous with the Christmas season, decorated trees, Christmas carols, twinkling lights and decorating Christmas cookies. The smell of homemade cookies fresh out of the oven get eager little ones excited about the prospect of sweet icing and colourful sprinkles. In an effort to ensure as many people as possible are able to experience that joy Camrose & District Family and Community Support Services (CDFCSS) is once again offering free Christmas Cookie Decorating Kits to families who reside within the County of Camrose and the villages of Bawlf, Bittern Lake, Edberg, Hay Lakes and Rosalind. “It is important that we offer some programs just for the rural residents,” said CDFCSS executive director Lyndel Kasa. “Most of our services are offered inside the City of Camrose, but Camrose County and the five villages of Bawlf, Bittern Lake, Edberg, Hay Lakes, and Rosalind are also our municipal partners and we want to ensure that our services are available to people in the County.” Kasa said the program was not only started to provide a service specifically for County residents but also to promote an activity with families. “Something they could do together that was Christmasy.” Along with the cookies, icing and sprinkles, the package also includes some paper games, a deck of cards, marble toys and material about all of the services offered by CDFCSS and links to pertinent websites. “It is an opportunity for us to make people aware of what services are available to them to support them.” The program is open to all ages and family demographics. Kasa recalled a particularly heart-warming story of one of the recipients of the “cookie care” kits last year. “We drop off the cookie kits to all of the village offices, and if there isn’t a village office, the kits are dropped off at other pick-up locations such as village stores or post offices. There was an elderly gentleman, a widower, who would often frequent one of the village pick-up locations just to visit and hang out with the staff.” When members of CDFCSS brought the cookie kits into this particular location, the gentleman happened to be there and was very interested in what they were doing. “We got talking with him, explaining the program and, as it happened, had an extra cookie kit, so we gave him one. “He actually teared up,” said Kasa. “He told us his

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

Bart and Karen Orr and the entire Burgar Funeral Home staff

wife used to bake Christmas cookies for him all the time and he didn’t have anybody at his home to make cookies for him anymore. He was so happy that he had those cookies.” Kasa said that knowing other stories of gratitude for receiving the cookie kits, such as families with young children that may be struggling through these challenging times, is what makes the program so worthwhile. “To have an activity that you can do with your family members that doesn’t cost anything and tastes delicious is just a little something extra to make the holiday season more joyful.” Kasa said the first year of the program, there were 100 kits distributed, and last year, there were 200 kits. “This year, we are anticipating 200 to 250.” This year’s Christmas Cookie Decorating Kits are sponsored entirely by K&K Prairie Recycling Services. “Other years, we have accessed Rural Mental Health Project grant funding for the Christmas Cookie Decorating Kits Program,” noted Kasa. “The staff, owner, and general manager at K&K have always been aware of the needs of our community, and engaged with the programs that Camrose & District Family Community Support Services is offering. “What is specifically important to Tony Thomsen (K&K general manager) is the supports that Camrose & District FCSS offers to

“Dedicated service since 1906”

our rural communities,” remarked Kasa. “Because not only does he operate a business in the County, but he grew up in a rural setting. When we provided him with the projects that could benefit from support, he was especially interested in the School Supply and Cookie Decorating Kits programs. Those were the initiatives he generously offered to support.” Thomsen shared his personal thoughts on why it is important to support the work of organizations such as CDFCSS and being able to give joy to others, specifically children. “I grew up in the ‘poor house’ with 10 brothers and sisters, and every Christmas morning, we received a stocking with one orange in it, three or four candies and lots of love–all from my mother’s heart.” Growing up in a rural family setting holds a special place in Thomsen’s heart, and being part of giving back to the rural communities has great meaning. “Christmas in the heart is what puts Christmas in the air and that’s why K&K Recycling Services has chosen to sponsor the Christmas Cookies for the County program,” said Thomsen. The Cookie Kits will be delivered to the rural communities the week of December 11 to 15. Registrants must have proof of a Camrose County address which they will present when picking up their kits. The program is limited to one cookie kit per family.

www.burgarfuneralhome.com

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

We’ve had an exciting year! No two days have been the same as we’ve “imagined, machined, fabricated, improvised or rebuilt”. We’re grateful for our incredibly talented staff and our continually growing list of clients who depend on our service. Thanks for your support and patronage! Steve, Tracy and the Team

See the tree at the north end of Main Street that we proudly designed and built this fall.

780.672.2273 | 5013-48 Street, Camrose Email: admin@camrosemachine.ca

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 4

Alberta has provincial rights By Jackie Lovely, MLA Camrose Constituency

Over the years, we have witnessed the federal government attempt to erode the rights and authorities of the provinces as an equal order of government under the constitution. Our victories against Bill C-39 and the federal government’s decision to unilaterally label plastic as a ‘toxic substance’ has been great news for our province and for our future. In early October, Albertans celebrated as the Supreme Court ruled that the federal government’s Bill C-69–also known as the “no more pipelines” act–is unconstitutional. This was a major victory for Alberta’s economy and Alberta’s provincial rights. Bill C-69 has already claimed billions in investment and thousands of jobs. This ruling represents an opportunity to stop the economic bleeding and bring these investments and jobs back to our province and country. It also provides Alberta with yet another tool to work with, as we fight to protect Albertans from Ottawa’s proposed electricity regulations and oil and gas emissions cap. Over the years, we have witnessed the federal government attempt to erode the rights and authorities of the provinces as an equal order of government under the constitution. We hope this decision marks a turning point in that approach. This past week, Albertans celebrated another win as the courts confirmed that the federal Liberals’ climate policies are both unreasonable and unconstitutional. A little over a year ago, Alberta intervened with the federal court to argue that the federal government’s decision to unilaterally label plastic as a ‘toxic substance’ is an unconstitutional intrusion into provincial jurisdiction and a threat to our economy. In the recent ruling, Justice Angela Furlanetto wrote that it was “unreasonable and unconstitutional” to list all plastic manufactured products as toxic in the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, adding that the federal government “acted outside of their authority.” Soon after the decision, Premier Danielle Smith and Environment and Protected Areas Minister Rebecca Schulz highlighted how Ottawa’s policies have put “thousands of jobs and billons of investments at risk.” To echo our premier and environment minister, it’s time for the federal government to listen to the courts and to Canadians, act within their scope, and acknowledge their continued pattern of overreach and the wide-ranging consequences this behaviour has had on the provinces. For example, Alberta is proudly home to Canada’s largest petrochemical sector, a sector with more than $18 billion in recently announced projects that were needlessly put in jeopardy. Premier Smith and our entire United Conservative team are listening and responding to the needs of Albertans. Alberta is back, leading the nation in economic prosperity, freedom, and opportunity. And we will work tirelessly to ensure this does not change. Contact my office if you require my assistance. A reminder that I am a commissioner of oaths and a notary public and provide the service free for constituents. If you have any questions or concerns, contact my office. We are always here for you! You can contact Jackie Lovely, Camrose MLA, at Constituency Office, 104, 4870-51 Street, Camrose, AB T4V 1S1. Tel: 780-672-0000, camrose@ assembly.ab.ca or at Legislature Office, 6th Floor, 9820-107 Street, Edmonton, AB T5K 1E7.

BRCF honours Flagstaff women By Leslie Cholowsky, The Community Press

The Battle River Community Foundation (BRCF) broke with tradition for this year’s Community Builders Dinner in Flagstaff County, by honouring a group instead of a couple. This year’s honouree was the 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County, who as it starts its fifth year of operations just passed the $200,000 mark in grants given to the community. The concept is simple, as explained by steering committee member and cofounder Tanya Piche: Put up $400 each year, $100 in each of four quarterly meetings; attend an hour-long meeting to determine who gets the funding and that’s it. “My $400 is a drop in the bucket, but when added to yours, can make a big difference.” Multiply that by 185 current members and you get the picture. It may be simple, but is certainly proving to be effective. Community Builders Dinners are not merely to honour those individuals, couples, or now, groups who have made an outstanding contribution to their community. These dinners also represent the creation of new funds, which are put aside in perpetuity, so that the group continues to give back to the community forever from interest earned. With over 220 tickets sold and half of each ticket’s cost going to the creation of that new fund, Saturday’s event was well on its way to being a success even before it began. BRCF board treasurer Neil Lunty acted as emcee for the evening, speaking a little about the Foundation before dinner and introducing Rev. Deanna Cox to say grace. After dinner, the real fun began. BRCF chairman Kevin Gurr spoke about the history of the BRCF. Gurr put forward some impressive numbers, advising that the BRCF endowment has grown to $20 million, “All because of a decision made years ago on how to give, building into today’s total.” He said this year the BRCF allotted $250,000 to be given back to the community in grant funding, and

a grand total of $9 million given since its inception. “Our strength is based on modest gifts received by thoughtful individuals like you, who choose to donate to funds that support causes that are important to you.” He pointed out how that aligns with the 100+ Women Who Care philosophy. BRCF funds earn interest, and that’s what creates the funds available for grants. The principle is never touched, and remains available in perpetuity. That was followed by a video produced by Josie Storbakken of JCE Films which introduced the 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County, following the group’s history and also featuring a few of the groups who had received funding, describing the impact of being on the receiving end of one of the 100+ Women’s disbursements. Then auctioneers Dale Jones and Darrin Holben took the stage to auction 10 items, each representing a community in Flagstaff County, mirrored by the 100+ Women’s membership throughout the region. A departure from previous dinners, the auction items weren’t your typical fare, by any means. The first item to be auctioned was a one-of-a-kind hardcover cookbook, featuring handwritten family recipes contributed by members of the 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County, along with the history of the group. Other unusual items included a year of twice-amonth baked goods, a Deluxe Gopher Safari for eight, which raised an eye-popping $7,000, skating parties and even a scavenger hunt. Jones and Holben had a lot of fun auctioning off the unique lots, with Jones in top comedic form, keeping the crowd entertained throughout. He spoke from the heart, however, when he praised BRCF ambassadors emeritus Blain Fowler and Ken Drever, who has passed. “These two outstanding people,” Jones said, adding that “living with generosity and giving is a learned thing.” He used Drever as an example of the kind of leadership and teaching that passed

The 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County group with Steering Committee members, from left: Holly Bovencamp, Tanya Piche and Joanne McMahon in the lead.

through generations. Jones added, “I commend all who’ve contributed to tonight’s auction, and to the 100+ Women. If we don’t keep supporting our communities, we’ll end up shopping elsewhere. Thank you to those who keep putting in the effort to make our great communities what they are.” The final item for auction was a side of beef, donated by Jones and his wife Nanette, which has been donated to the Flagstaff Food Bank, and already cut, wrapped, and delivered. Members of the audience were offered the opportunity to ‘bid’ on one or more units offered at $100 each. Formal tributes to the group were then made by Lynne Jenkinson, representing FIRST (Flagstaff Informed Response Sharing Team) and Chelsea Nielson, representing Killam Public School. Each described the impact that funds received from the 100+ Women had made, not just on their organizations, but reaching far into the community. The final presentation came from the groups steering committee and cofounders, Holly Bovencamp, Joanne McMahon and Tanya Piche. McMahon talked about how the idea came about, via a conversation in Piche’s salon chair, and how the group had formed. She also talked about how the three women, each representing different generations, found that strengthened their ability to work together. Piche talked about how the group works, and the impact that a group of 185 women can have and has had by working together. Bovencamp talked about the business end, how the voting works and her role in the organization, and ended with an African proverb that has become synonymous with 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County. “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Lunty announced at the end of Saturday’s event, held in the Killam Community Hall, that initial figures were in, estimating the fund created by the evening’s event to have raised $40,000. That number was revised at press time by the BRCF to be closer to $50,000. Editor’s note: This item arrived too late to be included in our last issue of The Country Booster. However, we feel that the Battle River Community Foundation’s Community Builders dinner honouring the 100+ Women Who Care in Flagstaff County was a significant event, both for the women who are members of the group and for the communities they serve. We believe everyone involved with the group deserves full recognition for the good that they are doing.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 5

Old seed cleaning plant abates asbestos By Murray Green

The Camrose County old seed cleaning plant in Camrose demolition has been delayed. Administrator Teresa Gratrix reported as part of the Seed Cleaning Plant demolition, an asbestos survey was done resulting in the finding of the product in the Agriculture Service Board (ASB) office wall. “In order to get a permit for demolition, the asbestos needs to be removed,” she told council at the regular meeting on November 28. “I move that Camrose County council authorize administration to proceed with asbestos remediation at the old ASB office at a cost of $46,350 plus GST with funds to come from the Infrastructure Reserve,” said councillor Carl Bergstrom. Once the product has been removed and the demolition has taken place, the County has plans to put the property up for sale.

Seek permits before crossing border By Murray Green

RCMP Livestock Investigations Unit remind livestock owners to purchase permits. If you intend on transporting horses and cattle across the border during the upcoming winter months, it is law for all livestock leaving the province of Alberta be accompanied with a livestock permit. The inspection of livestock is pertinent for ownership identification, theft prevention and traceability. Lifetime Horse Permits cost $30 plus GST and allow horses to be transported out of Alberta for the lifetime of the horse, or until there is a change of ownership. To request livestock inspection, contact your location brand office by clicking the link Offices-Livestock Identification Services at lis-ab.com. The closest offices are in Viking and Ponoka at the livestock auction markets.

County Corner

News and Information from Camrose County Phone 780.672.4446 | www.county.camrose.ab.ca

We invite you to participate in this festive competition and spread the holiday cheer! HOW TO ENTER: 1. Capture a photo of your favourite holiday display in Camrose County. 2. Email the photo to ecdev@county.camrose.ab.ca CONTEST DETAILS: 1. Submit your photos now until December 21, 2023. 2. Three photos with the most Facebook likes will win exciting prizes. 3. Submitted photos can be found on Camrose County’s Facebook page. 4. Winners will be announced on December 22. BUT THAT’S NOT ALL! Take a tour around Camrose County and cast your vote for “The Most Festive Community“ (hamlet, village or subdivision). Send your vote with photos to ecdev@county.camrose.ab.ca. Camrose County will create a Christmas video feature for the community that receives the most votes in this festive competition.

Camrose County Economic Development Team

is on the road and visiting businesses in Camrose County! If you’d like our team to pay a visit to your business, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at ecdev@county.camrose.ab.ca. We look forward to meeting with you to understand both the challenges and opportunities within your business! Did you know that Camrose County sends monthly business e-newsletters to the County business community? Sign up here:

ecdev@county.camrose.ab.ca

Camrose County Administration, Agriculture Services, and West Dried Meat Lake Regional Landfill will be closed the following dates: Monday, December 25, 2023 Tuesday, December 26, 2023 Wednesday, December 27, 2023 (Landfill Open) Thursday, December 28, 2023 (Landfill Open) Friday, December 29, 2023 (Landfill Open) Monday, January 1, 2024 Check the website for Transfer Site hours.

RACING SIBLINGS

Submitted

Former junior dragster racer Ryder Faulkner, 17, has moved up into a full-size 1978 Ford Fairmont with a 545 cubic inch big block that runs 5.92 seconds over an eighth mile and his older sister Brittney is now following in his footsteps. She’s racing a 1986 Ford Thunderbird (inset) with a 408 stroked small block. She’s new to the racing scene, but went 6.7 seconds in the eighth mile. They race weekly in Forestburg and Rimbey under the Holeshot Team.

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 6

Environment Farm Plan Workshop The Environment Farm Plan (EFP) is a voluntary, whole farm, self-assessment tool that helps producers identify their potential environmental risks and develop plans to mitigate identified risks. Developed by Alberta farmers for Alberta farmers.

We’ve enjoyed serving our Rural Clients this year!

Everyone on the Hauser Home Hardware ware team wish you and your loved oness happiness, peace, safety and prosperity rity this joyous holiday season and in the coming year.

• Kindly bring a laptop or tablet to facilitate working on the EFP. Register for the workshop nearest to you using the link provided with each location. There’s no entry fee, and lunch will be provided: 1. Camrose Regional Exhibition Grounds (4250 Exhibition Dr, Camrose, AB T4V 4R4) December 20th, 2023. 10 am https://conta.cc/46rXckD 2. Stettler Agricultural Society (4516-52 St, Stettler, AB T0C 2L0) - January 18th, 2024. 10 am https://conta.cc/47laH6X 3. Castor Community Hall (4912-49 Ave, Castor, AB T0C 0X0) - February 15th, 2024. 10 A.M https://conta.cc/3Gh6u85

www.battleriverresearch.com or call at 780-582-7308

Thank You!

Garth Brett

Devan Herder

6809-48 Avenue, Camrosee Phone 780-672-8818 Fax 780-672-8809

Before attending the workshop, ensure the following: • Create an EFP account if you don’t have one already at www.albertaefp.com

Rob Hauser

Sleep hygiene is important for overall good health By Murray Green

Sleep profoundly impacts our physical, mental and emotional well-being, and is just as vital to our health as a balanced diet and exercise. Sleep hygiene is a term that encompasses a set of practices, habits, or routines that can help you achieve restful, high quality sleep each and every night. By adopting good sleep practices and making them part of your daily routine, you can support your body and mind in functioning at their best, according to Alberta Health Services. Getting a good night’s rest can do wonders for pretty much every function in our body. It’s important for physical health, aiding in the body’s repair and rejuvenation and muscle recovery. Sleep can improve our immune systems and help us fight off illnesses including infections and viruses. Adequate sleep helps us maintain a healthy weight and good heart health; enhances our ability to think clearly and make sound decisions; helps us with mood and emotional regulation. We perform better and are more productive. Ensuring good sleep hygiene can help improve the quality of our sleep and in turn, helps us achieve a better quality of life. Here are some practical tips to help you improve your sleep hygiene. • Create a consistent schedule–anchor your wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency, particularly with the time that you wake up, helps regulate your body’s internal clock. • Create a comfortable sleep environment–ensure your bedroom is conducive to sleep. This means a cool, dark and

quiet room with a comfortable mattress and pillows. • Limit screen time–the blue light from screens can disrupt your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Avoid screens at least an hour before bedtime. • Be mindful of your diet–avoid heavy or spicy meals, caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, as they can interfere with your sleep. • Exercise regularly–engaging in physical activity during the day can help you sleep better at night. However, try to finish exercising at least a few hours before bedtime. • Relaxation techniques–consider trying relaxation methods in a quiet area of your home such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretches to calm your mind if you find yourself wakeful when you would like to sleep. • Switch it up. Try to avoid lying awake in bed if you remain wakeful despite trying to sleep. Sometimes, leaving the bedroom to do something relaxing in a low light environment and returning to bed when sleepy can help to improve sleep continuity. • Limit naps–while short power naps can be rejuvenating, long or irregular daytime naps can disrupt your sleep patterns. Sleep hygiene is a cornerstone of our health and well-being. By adopting good sleep practices and making them a part of your daily routine, you can enjoy the numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits of a well-rested life. Prioritizing sleep hygiene is an investment in yourself and your future, and it’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your quality of life. Murray Green, Camrose Booster

It’s been a privilege to keep you on the road or in the field during the past year.

Thank you for relying on me! Hoping you have a wonderful Christmas and a terrific New Year.

John’s Shopmobile Ltd. LEGACY JUNCTION

Junction of Highways 13 and 56, Camrose

Shop 780.672.2198

Cell 780.679.7767

For more than 40 years, Canada Post elves have been busy helping Santa sort through over one million letters per year from around the world. While Canada Post may not be able to guarantee delivery dates, they are assured that Santa will respond to the letters he receives. SANTA’S ADDRESS:

Santa Claus North Pole H0H 0H0 Canada

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 7

SHINY,

Happy Holidays

With Our Thanks for Your Patronage

We wish you and yours a gifted holiday season! Phone 780-672-9400 Fax 780-672-9556

1/2 km East on Highway 26, Camrose

Stop overpaying for your

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. JANUARY 2, REGULAR HOURS RESUME

The nicest thing about Christmas is sharing it with wonderful friends and neighbours like you. Thank you for making our year special in so many ways. We wouldn’t be here without the support of kind folks like you.

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

SMITH CLINIC HOLIDAY HOURS: December 23 Same Day Appointments . . . . 10am-2pm Call 780-608-5874 December 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED December 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED December 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED December 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30am-5:00pm December 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30am-5:00pm December 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:30am-5:00pm December 30 Same Day Appointments . . . . 10am-2pm Call 780-608-5874 December 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED January 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CLOSED

Please call ahead for all appointments by calling the appointment line 780-672-2423 and choosing option 1, 2, or 3.

Serving you has been our privilege and pleasure.

From the staff and physicians of the…

#1, 6601-48 Avenue, Camrose

CHEQUES! Small Business Cheques

7.5” x 3.25” plus stub, black ink, white paper, numbered

250 cheques . . . . . .$109.50 500 cheques . . . . . .$135.00 1000 cheques . . . .$186.50 Duplicate Business Cheques and laser cheques also available.

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

80 cheques . . . . . . . . . . $38.60 160 cheques . . . . . . . . . . $52.00 320 cheques . . . . . . . . . . $95.50 Duplicate Personal Cheques

OUR PRICES BEAT THE BANKS!

Our cheques are bank-quality with bank secure features.

Pay up to

50% LESS

MASKWACIS-WETASKIWIN IN

Handy duplicates for easy record keeping.

80 duplicate cheques . . . . . $45.80 160 duplicate cheques . . . . . $61.50 320 duplicate cheques . . . $112.00

Rick Wilson, MLA A

Phone 780-672-3142 4925-48 St., Camrose

Constituency Office: 5019-50 Street, Wetaskiwin, AB T9A 1K1 K1 Phone 780.360.8003 03 Maskwacis.Wetaskiwin@assembly.ab.ca ca

Provincial funding secured for Tofield Lodge Submitted Pictured are Alberta minister of Seniors, Community and Social Service Jason Nixon and Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely with Eugene Hrabec, chair of Beaver Foundation and Owen Ligard, CAO of Beaver Foundation.

By Lori Larsen

The provincial government has approved $300,000 for capital maintenance and emergency preparedness for the Tofield Lodge. “This money is crucial in securing capital maintenance and emergency preparedness for the Tofield Lodge,” stated Beaver Foundation chair Eugene Hrabec. “We are thrilled at the government’s partnership in these improvements. Thank you to Minister Nixon and MLA Lovely for their advocacy for seniors in our area.”

The COUNTRY BOOSTER, December 12, 2023 – Page 8

Miller Century Farm Award

You could win a photograph of your farm! If this is your farm,

By Lori Larsen

Camrose and surrounding counties are rich in history of longstanding farm families that continue to play an integral part of the agricultural business in Alberta. Recently the Miller (Patrick and Denise) family of Daysland were honoured with the 2023 BMO Farm Family Award. For over 50 years BMO has been recognizing farm families, selected by agricultural service boards from north and central Alberta, that represent values of the family farm within the rural community. “Thank you to Flagstaff County Councillor Howard Shield for nominating the Miller family for this prestigious award,” said Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely. “The award was created to acknowledge, outstanding farm families in their communities. Criteria for the award includes being responsible stewards of the land, working hard to preserve it, while feeding the world.” The award not only honours the farming business practices but also the incredible community involvement of the recipients. “Families such as the Millers were acknowledged and I’m so grateful the Alberta Government and BMO have collaborated to acknowledge these hardworking, contributing farm families.” Submitted photo Below: The Miller family accepts the award presented by Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely.

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” colour enlargement of the photo.

• This week’s prize must be claimed by January 9, 2024. • The Mystery Farm winner for November 7: Scott Broughton of the Rosalind/Donalda area

THIS WEEK’S MYSTERY FARM IS SPONSORED BY:

Don’t let your policy lag The value of your home typically increases over the years. Make sure your coverage doesn’t lag behind the current value of your home and contents.

CENTRAL AGENCIES INC. 4870-51 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-4491 Edm. Direct 780-429-0909