Vegreville News Advertiser - April 22, 2020

VOL. 73 NO. 17

73 YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNIT Y WEDNESDAY, April 22, 2020 The Only Locally Owned News & Adver tising Media in Vegreville .

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Pre-arranged funeral plans Personalized burial and cremation services Provincial, national & international service Professional guidance to help meet your needs

780-632-2000 | 24 HR: 1-877-426-0050 4814 – 50 Street, Vegreville

St. Martin`s Catholic School Supplying Ear Guards to Local Frontline Workers Michelle Pinon News Advertiser St. Martin`s Catholic School in Vegreville began 3D printing production of face mask ear guards for frontline workers at local hospitals on April 8.

They shared their story on the school`s Facebook page on April 11, and have been going full out ever since.

Assistant Principal Melanie Sorochan explained, “A few weeks ago, Charlene Bicknell, our Grade 4 teacher who loves technology, heard of a boy who was printing these headbands as part of his Boy Scouts group.

He made his pattern available to others.”

Sorochan said they moved the school’s 3D Printer to Grade 6 teacher Lisa Salsbury’s home so they could print for longer hours. ``Lisa and her family have been printing ever since.”

She described the response to the school`s Facebook post as overwhelming. ``Our school values our connection to our community, and we just wanted to give back and show our support for frontline workers. Since our Alexis Salsbury, left, and Lisa Salsbury, a staff member at St. Martin`s Catholic School, have been producing Facemask ear guards for frontline workers since April 8.

EDMONTON • LAMONT • MAYERTHORPE • SMOKY LAKE

St. Martin`s School - CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

Physician Services

VCHS Wraps Up Successful Season of Sports

See page 5 for story

See page 8 for story

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APRIL 22, 2020

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WHAT’S INSIDE Agriculture...............12,13

Business........................... 9 Classifieds......................14

Family.............................1 8

Letters To The Editor.... 4,7 Marketplace...................17

Notices.......................... 20

Real Estate......................19 Sports.............................. 8 Tenders...........................20

Tributes..........................16

Upcoming......................15

Holden 4-H Beef Club Page 12

Carrot the Snowmen Page 17

4-DAY WEATHER Thurs.

13°C

Fri. 12°C

Sat. 15°C

Sun. 14°C

MORE ON PAGE 17

LOTTERY NUMBERS Friday, April 17, 2020

2 15 21 29 40 47 50

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Check page 4 for staff, flyers, auctions, real estate and more.

RCMP files from April 13 - 19 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser April 13 02:10 – Member responded to a call about a disabled vehicle on Hwy 16/16A. Upon arrival, the member found that the steering wheel was locked. The member-managed to get the steering wheel to unlock and the motorist continued on his way.

04:53 – Report of snowmobiles riding on the Northside of Vegreville. The caller indicated that they had heard the machines throughout the night.

08:24 – Report of a break and enter to a rural Vegreville business. The breakin occurred overnight with money being taken, a window broken and 3 individuals observed walking and then leaving on snowmobiles. Under investigation.

14:18 – Report of a dispute at a local lodging establishment.

Members attended and it was determined that an agreement of renter conduct was not signed. Member mediated the situation and the tenant signed the agreement and was allowed to stay.

14:21 – Call received regarding an in-progress separation of a couple. One party had asked for an Emergency Protection Order which was denied by the Justice of the Peace on a previous date. Members advised the complainant to continue to seek resolution via the civil courts.

14:23 – Stroller and small toolbox found outside a business in Vegreville.

No one has reported these items missing.

14:38 – Member on patrol observed a black Chrysler southbound on Hwy 15 towards Hwy 16. The vehicle was driving erratically and almost hit construction workers. The pursuit reached speeds of almost 200 kmph and was discontinued. The call was forwarded to Fort Saskatchewan and Sherwood Park for intercept. No updates at the time of publishing.

14:57 – Report of a break and enter to a commercial property in Vegreville the night before. A lock to an out-building was cut but it did not appear that anything was taken. Under investigation.

18:33 – Complainant called to report a suspicious interaction at a rural property north of Vegreville 3 hours before.

The caller requested patrols but then did not answer calls from members.

Key details such as vehicle description were missing from the initial call.

April 14 03:03 – Complainant called to report

a possible break and enter north of Vegreville. Nothing further reported and members were unable to locate the vehicle.

06:30 – Report of a dark green arctic cat driving down Maple street. The 2 riders then turned into a field. The snowmobile was later recovered & determined to be stolen (April 1) and returned to the owner. Various stolen items were also located and returned to owners via other open files.

07:53 – Report of a white GMC Sierra travelling westbound in the eastbound lanes on Hwy 16 near Hwy 36. Due to the time delay, members were unable to locate the subject of the call. No further calls received.

08:04 – Call to assist Fire Department at a house fire. The house was not occupied and the matter is under investigation pending a report from the Fire Investigator.

08:33 – Report of an attempted break and enter at a Vegreville business. A door was tampered with and damaged but entry was not gained. Under investigation.

09:33 – Break and enter to a farmyard south of Vegreville. A shop was entered and tools and a propane tank were taken. Under investigation.

11:13 – Members executed an arrest warrant for an individual in rural Vegreville. The subject arrested and brought to the Vegreville detachment cells. His fines were paid and he was released.

13:00 – Report of a break and enter to a shop in Mundare. Nothing appeared to be taken. CCTV is being reviewed.

Under investigation.

17:01 – After returning from a walk, an individual believes a stool in his apartment had been moved. When he returned the door was still locked. He called the landlord who indicated the locks would be changed in the next 24 hrs.

18:27 – Report of a stolen SUV from a residence in Mundare. The vehicle was stolen during the day.

Two Hills detachment had received a call about a burnt-out SUV minutes before this call which turned out to be this individual’s vehicle. Under investigation.

April 15

06:32 – Report of a possible impaired driver in Vegreville. Photographs of the vehicle were obtained. The vehicle was later located but was outside of the investigative window for impaired driving.

13:25 – Report of a break and enter at

Imperial Hall.

Entry was gained through a window. A fire extinguisher was taken. Under investigation.

13:45 – Report of a break and enter at a rural property near Mundare.

Multiple batteries were stolen. Under investigation.

April 16

01:02 – Members attended a Vegreville lodging establishment after a tenant had been repeatedly calling the front desk since 00:13. Members located the individual, heavily intoxicated sitting behind the wheel of his running vehicle.

The subject was arrested for Impaired Care and Control and was transported to the detachment. The subject refused to provide breath samples and was charged accordingly. The vehicle was seized for 3 days.

11:42 – Report of tools being stolen from the back of a truck in Vegreville overnight. Under investigation.

21:33 – While on patrol, a license plate check revealed that the driver may be suspended. A traffic stop was conducted, and the driver was in fact suspended Provincially. He was arrested and released roadside with documents for court. The vehicle was seized for 30 days.

April 17

11:11 – While on a walk, a Vegreville resident found a toolbox with tools.

The items were retrieved and are being held at the Vegreville Detachment for 60 days.

April 18

13:10 – During a compliance check, it was determined that one of the individuals on the Habitual Offenders List was in breach of his conditions (curfew).

The subject was located and arrested and held for a hearing then released on bail with a future court date.

14:15 – Report of the theft of a Ford Focus from a Vegreville business. The vehicle had been stolen overnight.

CCTV reviewed. Under investigation.

April 19

Nothing of note

During the week there were 74 calls for service made in total including: 1 false alarm, 0 false 911s, 0 animal strikes and approximately 14 tickets from traffic enforcement.

Have questions about the blotter?

Reach out to us at blotter@newsadvertiser.com and we will do our best to provide answers to your queries.

APRIL 22, 2020

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Nobody Moves, Nobody Gets Hurt Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser - Opinion If you have ever wondered why it seems that nothing gets done in Ottawa at times, we now have a clearer picture.

When the COVID-19 pandemic arrived in Canada, Parliament suspended sitting in March for 5 weeks. They did this following the passing of legislation for the new North American Free Trade Agreement and Bills which granted cabinet extraordinary spending powers. All parties agreed to adjourn until at least April 20th.

The House of Commons was recalled to debate the wage subsidies and other financial measures but otherwise had April 20th (yes, 420) on the horizon.

Leading up to Monday, there was lengthy discussions about all the details about reconvening. How and how many were the main issues which consumed the weekend as if they had lost their calendars and didn’t know the deadline was approaching.

From one side PM Trudeau stated it was “irresponsible” for the House to sit during the COVID-19 pandemic. His argument was valid in that a packed house of up to 338 MPs and all the related staffers would be working in close proximity and risking people’s health.

His proposal was to meet “in some fashion” once per

week and then when the technology was available they would sit virtually.

On the other side, Andrew Scheer of the Conservatives downplayed the argument stating that only 20 MPs were needed for a quorum, thus negating the mass gathering implied by the PM. He also stated that more meetings were needed to hold the government to account and that during emergency sessions 32 MPs were present.

It is hard to say what is worse. Two leaders playing politics about re-opening government in a time of crisis for some screen time or free ink, or the fact that they are both clearly acting like dinosaurs. For “Mr. Selfie” himself to use a phrase like “when the technology was available” is absurd. Maybe he still hadn’t found his Easter eggs at the cottage. Scheer implying that virtual sitting would not be effective makes me think that he is more concerned with missing out on desk pounding and the cat calling some of our illustrious MPs are so fond of more than he is with effective governing.

Virtual meeting technology has been used extensively for well over 10 years. Just because governments have not had the desire or collective brain power to take advantage of what is right in front of them is no excuse for not doing their jobs.

I will lay it out for those unfamiliar with how this works.

The Speaker of the House would control the meeting as they do now. They would require a handful of tech support people to help them manage the technology. MPs would join the meeting with a secure code which would allow them the ability to display their web cameras and use microphones (or telephones). They would use the computer to raise their hands or present questions and comments to the speaker. The speaker would allow MPs to speak as he does now. He would have the ability to cut them off and there would be no cat calling, desk pounding or talking over one another. An orderly Parliament at last could be had.

Spectators could also connect and be presented with an

opinion - CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Name: James McLean Occupation: Assistant Manager Likes: summer, working hard Dislikes: long winters, seafood.

Dear Editor, Once upon a time were 4 ppl named Everybody, Somebody, Nobody, & Anybody. When an important job was to be done, Everybody was sure Somebody would do it. Anybody could do it, but Nobody did. When Nobody did it, Everybody got angry. Everybody thought Somebody would do it, but Nobody would do it. So it ended up Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done in the first place. This applies to a lot of Political parties of EVERY COUNTRY. Sandra Olson --------------------------------Thank you for your letter Sandra. Well put. We are in the health AND economic position we are because of those we have elected over many years and their goals. - AB

APRIL 22, 2020

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Physician Services Michelle Pinon News Advertiser In spite of physicians and the provincial government being at odds over a new funding framework, the Town of Vegreville continues to have a very favourable relationship with local doctors in the community.

“We’re very happy with the doctors we have in town right now, and the way they are operating at the clinic and the hospital. They are well respected in the community and we know that they are here for us,” stated Mayor Tim MacPhee.

“Our local doctors are some of our bigger recruitment tools because some of the people that we’re bringing in here have gone to school with or were colleagues some place else and their telling these doctors that Vegreville is a very good place to live and to run a practice,” noted MacPhee.

As to the likelihood of possible changes to services which physicians provide to patients at the hospital or clinic in Vegreville, MacPhee said he couldn’t speak on behalf of doctors on what their issues are with the province.

“I’ve had conversations with three different doctors in the last little while in our community. They are focused on the job they are doing every day. We interviewed Dr. Strydom last week, and today is their last day of quarantine,

private practice, but as far as local doctors I’ve had no comments one way or another from them.”

If there were doctors who were to leave the community how easy or hard would it be to find replacements?

April 14, at the hospital. He’s the Chief Medical Officer. He hasn’t indicated any type of action that the local doctors in the clinic will be taking as far as a stance with the province. He has not brought anything up with me.

I know what’s going on in Lac La Biche. Those doctors there have said they will be resigning from working at the hospital and concentrating on their

MacPhee replied, “It’s an ongoing process all the time. We have a physician retention committee and the town and the county and the hospital and the clinic and FCSS are all part of it, and a few other players are involved. It’s been a constant for the past 10 years or so, we are always trying to search out more physicians for our community here.

They’re always in contact with doctors

looking to relocate.”

On April 15 a group of 10 doctors in Lac La Biche jointly filed a letter of resignation stating they will no longer cover emergency room and obstetric services at the hospital there in the near future.

According to the letter that was sent to provincial and local healthcare officials and a number of media outlets, it stated, “That due to recent government funding changes to our Schedule of Medical Benefit Claim fees, we have been obliged to restructure our Medical Practice to cope with the loss of income.

As a result we will not continue to support the William J. Cadzow Health Centre for ER and Obstetrical coverage after July 31, 2020. We are hereby officially resigning our hospital privileges effective July 31, 2020.”

A new funding framework that was introduced in March has been heavily criticized by members of the Alberta Medical Association. More than 800 doctors signed their own open letter to the government on Monday asking it to delay the changes.

opinion - CONTINUED from PAGE 4 image of the Speaker as well as the MP who currently had the floor.

For your standard webcast (think streaming live events such as sports, meetings, faith based services or educational lectures), you can get started for under $200 per month plus a little tech support. Smoky Lake has been doing this for years for various events. It’s not financially or technologically a large hurdle.

Despite what some governments would have you think, this is not rocket surgery. This is technology that is readily available.

Fortunately, the CBC was able to report that Monday’s sitting was full of adults acting like states-people and governing. A far cry from the

usual playground antics we usually see. A tip of the hat to the approximately 37 in attendance.

They moved, they resumed government, and no one got hurt. More adults please!

As we go to press, there are 34,981 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Canada and 1,537 deaths.

Live stats can be found on our web page.

Tell me what you think.

Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

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APRIL 22, 2020

from the pages of the vegreville observer

Compiled by Dan Beaudette

90 Years Ago – April 23, 1930

That the crying need of the Vegreville fire department is for a truck capable of carrying two reels of hose and a booster pump is more clearly shown every time an alarm is turned into the hall. On Thursday morning an alarm went in from the residence of Mr. W. Kuss on Mr. Pleasant. While the chemical arrived at the fire in plenty of time, it was necessary to wait till the hose reel arrived before water at a pressure and in any quantity was supplied.

Second hand dealers and junk dealers will be subject to close police supervision in the future according to a bylaw passed by the Town Council of Vegreville. The bylaw restricts the persons from whom articles can be purchased, that is no purchase may be made from anyone under the age of sixteen years; neither can anyone under the influence of liquor sell a second hand article.

A bylaw of the village of Lavoy for the abatement of all nuisances’ states: That all tie posts be removed from the streets and the accumulated manure be disposed of.

75 Years Ago –April 25, 1945

There is a scarcity of almost every kind of food in the world today with the sole exception of wheat. There are markets available for every substantial volume of barley and flax. Both federal and provincial agricultural authority are advising farmers not to let their hog numbers go down and to increase the production of coarse grains.

Sgt. R.F. Watson, RCAF, is visiting his cousin, Mrs. M.C. Watts. Sgt. Watson served overseas forty years and is now discharged.

Hank Bender has a new assistant in his barber shop, temporarily at least. Nick Chomiak, late of Myrnam, is on the job with razor and scissors.

The grain transportation committee announced after a meeting here that a program has been set up which calls for the loading of approximately 1,150 cars of grain per day on the prairies from April 1 to December 1.

Canada depends upon the United States for supplies of farm tractors. It looked for a time as if very few of these machines would be available to the Canadian farmers this year, but Hon. C.D. Howe expressed the cautious hope that the Canadian quota would be increased.

50 Years Ago – April 23, 1970

Representatives of the Vegreville Fire Department, Fire Chief Orville Tebbutt, Deputy Chief Harold Wade and President of the Firemen’s Club Daryl Horyn along with Fire Councillor Bruce Bird were on hand at the meeting of the Vegreville Chamber of Commerce where the brigade was presented their fire prevention award certificate from Councillor Mike Craddock. The fire department won an honorable mention in the Class E National Competitions and Third Place in the Class E Alberta Competitions.

The second annual sale of purebred beef cattle took place at the Vegreville Auction Mart. Arthur Ziegler of Vegreville had the top of the sale with an April ’68 bull named Shelterbelt AM Joe 212, which was sired by the great Beau Mode 4T. The high selling two-yearold sold for $800. to N.D. Babiuk of Two Hills.

A 7,000 acre pasture will be developed on the Saddle Lake Indian Reserve near St. Paul in northeast Alberta under the federal government’s ARDA program. The pasture is to be developed over a three-year period at a total cost of $83,000, with the federal government paying the entire cost, and Alberta being responsible for carrying out the development program. Upon completion the pasture will provide summer grazing for 350 animals.

25 Years Ago – April 25, 1995

Elk Island Public Schools will eliminate 27 central office and 50 teaching positions, according to preliminary budget estimates. Elk Island Schools released a draft budget last Monday night. The school region will spend $80.1 million for 1995-96, representing a 7.2 per cent or $6.2 million cut from equivalent spending in 1994 – 1995.

Vegreville fire fighters were busy battling a grass fire in a field south of the agricultural grounds Tuesday afternoon. April and May are common months for grass fires in rural areas.

Fifteen people have been given pink slips at the Alberta Environment Centre in Vegreville. “We’re making a concerted effort to assist laid-off employees,” said Paul Layte, the centre’s acting director. “We’re helping them update resumes and trying to find opportunities for them within the department.

Former Minburn County school superintendent Orest Olineck moves out of his former office in the County building. Olineck is retiring Friday after 35 years in the education field in various capacities.

A week or two of warm weather will enable farmers to get into their fields. “Surface moisture is reasonably good and moisture levels in the subsoil are fair,” said Kent MacDonald, a crop specialist with Alberta Agriculture.

Letters Welcomed

One role of the Vegreville News Advertiser is to promote dialogue on various issues of concern to area residents. We accomplish this by welcoming Letters to the Editor and allowing various issues to be debated through our pages. All letters must contain the writer’s name, address and phone number. Anonymous letters will not be printed, however the writer’s name may be withheld from publication in special circumstances deemed appropriate by the Publisher.

The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to edit letters for length, clarity, spelling and grammar, taste or for reasons of potential libel. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

France Teaches Alphabet the ABCS of Competition Fairness Doug Firby Troy Media Publisher Digital technology has, for the most part, been a boon to consumers. Think of how digital technology has enabled Uber to break the taxi oligopolies, Amazon to open up the world of online product choices and Airbnb to deliver affordable alternatives to hotel stays.

None of this, however, justifies the use of digital technology to engage in theft.

And yet theft is in effect what large news aggregators like Google have been doing for years to the product of news media outlets.

These companies ‘aggregate’ the hard work that countless journalists and editors have gathered, vetted and sweated over, and then they re-post that content with – surprise! – their own advertising revenue streams reaping the benefits.

Readers naturally figured out pretty quickly that they could get a broad selection of news instantaneously from media outlets around the world online for free, with neither the obligation to buy a subscription or to view the local ads.

In industry-speak, it means the business model has become broken. Media outlets that invested heavily in the resources to do proper journalism have watched helplessly as their resources steadily, inexorably dried up.

We’ve seen the result in mass closures of newspapers and news websites, and the gutting of the newsrooms that have managed to keep operating.

With the watchdogs in effect smothered to death, governments at all levels no longer face the daily scrutiny they once did. And the best stories – the ones that require a reporter to walk the beat instead of tracking Twitter trending – go untold.

What’s less obvious to some is the almost incalculable loss in quality of the content that gets delivered: stories written by overworked, and often junior, staff, stories rife with typos because they’re not edited, and – let’s lay the cards on the table – stories that are much more vulnerable to factual error and sometimes even deliberate deception.

There’s been much handwringing over what to do about this disaster to our democracy. Media outlets, for sure, have been the authors of their own misfor-

tune by failing to recognize the threats bearing down on them, and then responding too little, too late with some pretty lame attempts to innovate.

Numerous attempts at erecting paywalls have been tried and abandoned, although it’s worth noting that over time they’re gaining ground.

Still, any revenue gained from subscriptions is just a small piece of the revenue puzzle that must fit together if news media is ever to get the money it needs to function at a high level.

In Canada, major media groups have implored the federal government to keep pumping out subsidies to help them stay afloat – an idea that’s as appalling as it is outrageous (not to mention pretty much a non-starter with crisis funding related to COVID-19 sucking up breathtaking amounts of public money). We all know – sorry CBC – that media funded by the government will one day have to pay the piper.

France, God bless it, has now shown the guts to do what all governments should be doing about these news aggregators. France’s antitrust regulator, the Autorite de la concurrence, guided by a recent European Union law, has ordered Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google, to start paying media groups for displaying their content. It argues that the search giant’s practices caused “serious and immediate harm” to the French press sector.

Damn straight they have.

Alphabet has already indicated it doesn’t want to play nice. It previously argued that European news publishers derived significant value from the eight billion visits they receive each month from users who search on Google.

Alphabet has also said it will oppose the new regulation, and – get this – warned that articles, pictures, and videos would be shown in search results only if Google wouldn’t have to pay. If a media outlet refuses Google’s terms, only a headline and a bare link to the content will appear.

Search engines such as Google account for between 26 and 90 percent of traffic redirected on news websites, the competition regulator said, based on data from 32 press publications.

That traffic is “crucial for publishers and press agencies who can’t afford to lose any digital readership given their economic hardships,” the authority said. They had “no other choice than to

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APRIL 22, 2020

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Dear Editor, Become responsible.

We must begin looking at the larger consequences of our small decisions taken in the privacy of our own homes.

Buying from a big distributor like Amazon can sometimes be less expensive, (to attract us), and have more available products, and of course, delivered at our door. However, where are the revenues of this company going? To some interplanetary future trips to the moon!

Nothing for your public services (health, education, etc.), no local work in the distribution for you and your loved ones. As all the money goes in the same place, they will soon take over all other economic sectors, including pro-

duction and transportation. We will be left with only the delocalization of people to work in those monumental selling industries. The progressive consequences of it are going to be: no more village, town or country life. We are becoming more and more like the little ants, poorly paid and sheltered, at four or five of those plants in North America. We must realize that the twenty of the richest people in the world are making much more money on us since the beginning of the actual pandemic. Improving the quality of our decisions is crucial and urgent. All we have to do for our present and future survival is to order from our local businesses now while we still hold the solu-

tion in our hands.

Gaétane Pelletier-Lucsanszky --------------------------------Thanks for your letter. When I say it, people look at me like I’m crazy. When you say it, it sounds brilliant. It’s nice to hear these words from one of our readers. The Vancouver Sun reported that Jeff Bezos (Amazon) added $24 billion to his fortune since the pandemic started. Do we need to support more of that or our local communities? - AB

H&R Block Tax Tips Submitted As a special bonus to help you get through these difficult times, the government will increase the maximum annual Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment amounts for the 2019-20 benefit year by $300 per child. This top-up amount will be included with your May payment. However, even with this extension, if you are receiving the Canada Child Benefit and/or GST/HST Credit, you should not delay filing any longer than is necessary to make sure your entitlement for the 2020-21 benefit

year (which begins in July 2020) is properly determined. In addition, if you are required to make instalment payments, you can put off paying any amounts that come due after March 18 until September 1, 2020.

Also, if you are receiving the GST/HST Credit, you will also get an extra payment in May averaging $400 if you are single or $600 if you are a couple.

The government has put several other measures into place, including: • A six-month interest-free mor-

Financial concerns?

We’re here for you.

These are extraordinary times. We know that during this time of turmoil resulting from COVID-19, financial concerns are top of mind for many.

If you’re directly impacted by COVID-19 and facing financial difficulties as a result, please reach out.

Contact your local branch to discuss financial relief options, including the deferral of mortgage, line of credit, loan and car payments.

Visit us at whatsyourshare.ca/covid-19-update and on Facebook @VisionCreditUnion for updates as they become available.

follow us @VisionCreditUnion

atorium on the repayment of Canada Student Loans for all individuals currently in the process of repayment. The same also applies for Quebec’s provincial student financial assistance program.

• Temporarily waiving the one-week waiting period for collecting EI sickness benefits for claimants who are in imposed quarantine.

• Allowing homeowners with CMHC-insured loans who are facing financial difficulties to defer mortgage payments.

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VCHS Wraps Up Successful Season of Sports

The Junior A girls were a force to be reckoned with, clinching the EIPS championship.

Vegreville Composite High School Submitted It has been a busy winter for Vegreville Composite athletics.

VCHS ran six basketball teams this season, with four junior high teams, and two senior high teams.

The junior high basketball teams have finished up league play and playoffs, and all had fun and successful seasons.

Some highlights from the season were: Jr A Girls were EIPS Tournament

Champions, a second-place finish for the Jr A Girls at their home tournament, bronze medals for the Jr B Boys at the EIPS Tournament, and the Jr A Girls finished the season as EIPS League Champions! VCHS Athletics is very appreciative of all of our hardworking, dedicated junior high basketball coaches, including: Ethan Chau, Zack Pooke, Adrienne Mills, Glenn Brophy, Sheila Stemberger, Nancy Worobec, and Kim Kateranchuk.

Thank you Vision team!

Thank you to each and every member of our Vision team.

They’re the smiling faces you’ve come to know and the friendly voices you hear over the telephone. They’re the folks who make up our branch teams, putting their heart and hard work into ensuring members receive the service they need and deserve - even from a distance.

They’ve had to change and adapt during this time, just as you have. Different isn’t always easy, but our dedicated team members are here for you. Please help protect our family, and yours, by utilizing online and telephone banking services whenever possible, instead of coming into the branch.

Remember, we’re always happy to chat. Please call our branches with any questions or even just to say hello, we’d love to hear from you. We can weather this together.

We see banking differently.

Another season has wrapped up for the senior high basketball teams.

Our senior boys were in the finals of both the Breton tournament in December and the St. Mary’s tournament at the end of January. The boys were ready to head into zones with a 9-7 record, but unfortunately, zones were canceled due to COVID-19. The team looks forward to next year when a majority of the team will return for their senior season. The senior boys are

led by dedicated coach Bryan Worobec.

Our senior high girls, led by Glenn Brophy, were in tough this season. With a team made up of mostly rookies, they focused on improvement and fun- and were successful in achieving both!

The VCHS junior and senior High curling programs continued for a second year. We had 18 new students join the program this year. This is exciting as the program continues to build. We also had some AL Horton students pick up the sport and will continue with this next year as well!

VCHS hosted NEASAA Zone Curling Championship. It was a very successful event with 24 teams attending from the North-East part of the province. VCHS had a boys, mixed and girls team that curled at the zone level. Given that many of the students are only in their second year of curling and are still learning the sport, VCHS did very well.

The girls, in fact, placed 1st in their pool and would finish off with a 4th place finish overall! VCHS is very appreciative of the time and dedication coach, Kendall Warawa, has put into developing and running this program!

All of the VCHS staff expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all of the parents for supporting VCHS Athletics this winter. We appreciate your commitment to driving, your loud cheering, your fundraising efforts, and for encouraging and supporting all of our athletes!

All staff and student-athletes are sad to be missing handball, badminton and track and field right now; but look forward to seeing each other on the fields and courts again soon.

We miss you, Cougars!

APRIL 22, 2020

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Late and Non-Payment Utility Charges to be Waived Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Vegreville residents will be getting some temporary financial relief from the town.

Council voted to waive late and nonpayment penalties on utility bills for April, May and June due to COVID-19.

Corporate Services Director Paul Casey stated, “With many community members and businesses impacted by COVID-19, the Town of Vegreville has determined preliminary measures for those who are experiencing unexpected challenges and uncertainty that may be affecting their ability to pay the Town of Vegreville utility bills.

Effective April 1, 2020, administration is recommending the Town of

Vegreville waive all late payment penalties and charges for late or non-payment of utility for the months of April, May and June 2020. The town will suffer a non-recoverable loss estimated at approximately $1,100 per month during that period.”

Coun. Taneen Rudyk asked Casey about projected impacts to revenue, and if they would have the capacity for projected loss, in this instance it would be potentially $1,100 dollars per month or is that for the time period as well as other impacts for revenue? Casey responded, “It is $1,100 per month. I have done some projections for where we might be depending on how long this lasts, and if this lasts into July, my estimate is that we would have a reduc-

tion in revenue of $450,000.”

Casey explained, “The $450,000 estimated loss of revenue loss not does solely relate to the loss of revenue from the waiver of penalties on utilities, but refers to all sources of lost revenue such as recreation fees and facility rental fees, to name just two, that the Town will forego if the restrictions continue into July.”

“Moving forward here, we know we have to try and help as many people in the community as we possibly can so we’re waiving the penalties for three months.

That is what this bylaw states here, and we’ll have to reassess it as we move along,” added Mayor Tim MacPhee.

There were no further comments, and the motion was carried.

COVID-19 Slows Down the Sales of Certain Items at Stores Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

COVID-19 is affecting the sales of certain products at PharmaChoice in Vegreville. Kevin Welin, Front Store Manager of PharmaChoice said the sales overall from observing how many people come into the store to shop is a lot slower. “Sales are down. People are only coming in when they need something. But the pharmacy part of the store is busy because people are getting their prescription drugs. People are doing

more deliveries of medicine because of this.”

When Welin was asked what advice he would give people because of COVID19, he said if people have flu-like symptoms in any way or if they traveled, stay home and take care of yourself. If you need something from here don’t come in if you don’t have to, we will deliver it to you as long as you are within the town limits,” Welin added.

News Advertiser PAGE 9

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APRIL 22, 2020

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Anne Soldan Volunteers for Almost 72 years Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Anne Soldan has volunteered in Vegreville for nearly 72 years, and would recommend it to anyone.

(Submitted/Photo)

Anne Soldan came to Vegreville from Andrew as a young bride of 17 years old. Since that time, she has volunteered for the Community of Vegreville and elsewhere for 72 years as of this coming June.

“I volunteered for the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, the Canadian Cancer Society where we canvassed for money to help them to raise funds. I also volunteered when my children were at school for Vegreville Skating Club, some of the hockey and for the Kinette Club of Vegreville, Royal Purple Ladies, I am on the board for the Senior Citizen Sunshine Club of Vegreville, I also volunteered for Canadian Red Cross, Vegreville Hospital’s Auxiliary, Canadian National Institution for the Blind (CNIB), and other clubs and places that are too numerous to name,” Anne said.

When asked why she started volunteering, Anne said they were very poor 71 years ago and they volunteered to have a social life. “We didn’t have any money and we were just happy to get together. We used to pay 25 cents for a babysitter to go to a meeting. Then the most we could stay at the meeting was for two hours. I wasn’t the only one, we were all like that. Also, when I first moved to Vegreville I was working in a furniture store and people used to always tell me to come to the Royal Purple’s meeting and then they told me of another function and volunteering just

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ballooned from there.

“I enjoy the camaraderie from volunteering; meeting other people. When I first started volunteering we had no cars or anything. So, we were isolated in a sense. But someone used to pick us up and we would then go to a meeting,” Anne said.

Anne said there aren’t many challenges to volunteering that she can think of. “But we were dedicated and diligent in doing our work properly.”

Anne closed by saying she would recommend for others to volunteer so they can get out and meet people.

Marg Varga helps V More Creativ Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Marg Varga is a Vegreville resident who has been volunteering for nine years. She volunteers for Vegreville Food Bank, Ducks Unlimited, Vegreville Visual Artists, and she participated in some of the Story Time programs at Vegreville Centennial Library.

Marg went on to say she started volunteering because she had the time available after she retired from being a school teacher. “I enjoy volunteering because I retired and it was nice to be able to give back to the community.

Then I was a teacher so working with people and helping people was part of what has been my life. So, it was nice to carry it on. Also, I enjoy seeing the people and being able to put my skills and interests to good use.”

Marg said.

When Marg was asked what the challenges were to volunteering, she replied it is being able to recognize when to delegate and not just take it on yourself to organize it so it is not just you doing it and being able to get a lot of people to do it.

Marg then added that she would recommend for others to volunteer because the community always needs a spare hand; without volunteers a lot of things wouldn’t get done. “It is also rewarding. It gets people involved and gives them a purpose and makes them feel like they belong.” field notes, diaries, ledgers, manuscripts and other texts. Visit transcription.si.edu.

If none of these opportunities speak to you, there are plenty of other ones available. Sites like volunteermatch.org and onlinevolunteering.org (a UN initiative) are great places to start.

APRIL 22, 2020

News Advertiser PAGE 11

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George and Velma Sample Perform Heartwarming Music Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

George and Velma Sample are well-known musicians who live in Vegreville. They have been performing music at various places for around 20 years. They especially enjoy playing old-time music. Velma plays the violin; George sings and chords on the keyboard, and plays the harmonica and button accordion.

In 2019, George and Velma were one of the nominees for Senior Citizen of the Year at the

helps Vegreville be a Creative Town George and Velma Sample have been performing in senior homes for almost 20 years and love every minute of it.

(Submitted/Photo)

een volunville Food rtists, and ograms at

g because rom being e I retired ommunity. and helpSo, it was eople and good use.”

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Retired school teacher Marg Varga loves to volunteer, and give back to the community. (Submitted/Photo)

Vegreville and Area Awards Gala.

George and Velma farmed in the New Buchach District, which is 11 miles north of Innisfree, until they retired and moved to Vegreville in 1998. The couple lives in their own home and have been married for 66 years. They have three children, five

grandsons, and two great-granddaughters.

Velma said they have performed at the Vegreville Care Centre, Mary Immaculate in Mundare, Century Park, Vegreville Manor, Homestead Senior Citizen’s Lodge, Heritage House, and the Eagle Hill Foundation in Willingdon, Two Hills, and Myrnam.

George and Velma’s biography for the awards gala read that they have made many occasions special by playing music at seniors’ lodges or for other community groups which include the Vegreville Iron Runners Auto Club, the Ranfurly Senior Clubs, and the Red Hat Ladies.

“Then until a few months ago, George volunteered to deliver Meals on Wheels in Vegreville for 15 years and he held a position on the Board of Directors for Vegreville and District Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) for many years as well. Even after we retired to Vegreville, every fall, he ran a combine for some old neighbors in the Innisfree area where we lived,” Velma explained.

Another passion that is close to the Sample’s heart is their antique and vintage vehicles which they volunteer to show at many parades and functions.

They have also volunteered in the past by picking up people from their lodges or homes to take them for bus rides or pick them up to take them to an event or to have a meal at a restaurant.

When Velma was asked why they volunteer, she replied playing music perks seniors up. She sees their eyes light up or their toes tapping. She believes music is good medicine. “When we see how they enjoy listening to the music, it blesses us.”

Velma took a refresher violin course that was taught by Heather Soldan. “Later, we formed a group called the Fiddlin’ Grannies which I really enjoyed,” Velma said.

Velma highly recommends volunteering, and said it can benefit everyone. “It is my way of doing something for God. Jesus wanted us to do good works and make others happy. In return, it makes us happy to see others being happy. Also, it is interesting as there is such a variety of volunteer work for people to do. We need volunteers. What would we do without volunteers? Volunteering really helps society.”

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APRIL 22, 2020

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Holden 4-H Beef Club Update Club Reporters Zane Gunderson and Kate Albrecht We wish that we were writing this inviting you to our achievement day and our district show and sale. Even though we can’t meet in person, we remain connected as a club. As individual families, we are all still working with our 4-H projects at home.

About one month ago our parents had an online meeting to discuss how we should market our steers. A price was decided on, and our steers were sold as

carcass animals. Within two days of this decision, all twelve of our steers were sold! We are very grateful to our local communities, businesses, friends, and family who continue to support 4-H in every way they can. We appreciate you all very much!

Our projects are coming along nicely and now that the weather has warmed up, it is much easier to work with our cattle. We continue to train and groom our animals, and we will be making videos for our leaders about our projects.

The Dietrich family of Redrich Farm from Forestburg who were going to judge our achievement day have generously offered to give us feedback from pictures and videos of our projects for any members who would like some tips.

We certainly hope to gather as a club for a BBQ and a wind up gathering for the year, but time will tell when that can happen.

Just a reminder, we appreciate everyone who continues to support 4-H!

Holden 4-H Beef Club Cleaver Member Rhea Gunderson with her 4-H project “First Class.”

APRIL 22, 2020

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Open Letter to Minister Bibeau MP John Barlow, MP Richard Lehoux, And MP Lianne Rood Submitted April 15, 2020 Dear Minister Bibeau, Canada is facing an unprecedented time in our history.

While Canadians stay home and do their part to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and plank the curve, they need to know that the essentials they rely on will be available. This is especially true when it comes to fresh food and produce.

In order to do that, the Canadian agriculture sector must be supported and informed of what actions your government plans to take during this pandemic. Farmers, producers, and processors work hard day and night to ensure that Canadians have the food they need while they stay home. These hardworking Canadians need to know that their jobs will be safe during this pandemic and that they can continue to produce world class products.

Over the past few weeks, a number of issues have arisen in the agriculture sector due to the secondary effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. These issues have the potential to cause large economic harm to the agriculture sector and affect the food supply chain in Canada.

One of these issues, is the capacity for meat processing in Canada. Canada was already facing a meat processing crisis.

This has only gotten worse during the COVID-19 pandemic, as plants have closed or reduced shifts. The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association has requested that your government put in place a set-aside program to deal with the current lack of processing capacity. Conservatives echo this request and call on your government to immediately implement a temporary cattle setaside program to deal with the meat processing capacity crisis that Canada is currently facing.

Your government’s plan to deal with this issue and many others needs to be clear and transparent in order to provide certainty to the agriculture sector. In that regard, Conservatives have the following questions: 1. Your government has been promising a review of the Business Risk Management (BRM) programs since 2015.

Farmers are facing a crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic and need help now. When are Canadians going to see BRM reform to support the industry?

2. The Canadian dairy supply managed sector is being forced to dump raw milk product during the COVID-19 crisis.

What is the government doing to support hardworking Canadian dairy farmers?

3. Conservative Members of Parliament have been getting calls from producers who can’t qualify for the Canada Emergency Business Account, even though you have publicly advocated that producers could use the program. In the short term, what is your government doing to help producers who do not qualify for this program?

4. Four meat processing plants have either closed or reduced shifts during the pandemic, further exacerbating the processing capacity crisis within the meat sector. For weeks stakeholders have been asking your government to make agriculture and food processing a mandatory essential service. What steps are your government taking to ensure processing plants operate normally so that our food

Open Letter to Minister - CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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News Advertiser

APRIL 22, 2020

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MR. CLASSIFIED

Call toll free from anywhere in Alberta

1.800.522.4127 or fax to 780.632.7981

Ask the Guys Dear Classified Guys, Ever since my wife retired from teaching five years ago, she loves to move things around the house. It seems the furniture is never in the right place. At least once a week, a coffee table moves, then a couch or an area rug. Sometimes I come home from work and wonder if I entered the wrong house! It was fine when all she did was move a few things, however the day I couldn't find our bed because she changed rooms was a bit stressful. Now she wants different furniture to play house. I've convinced her to look for used furniture to keep the costs down, but I'm not thrilled about searching for it piece by piece. What do you think the chances are that someone moving would just sell us their whole house of furniture so I could get this over quickly? Maybe then my wife would be entertained for a while, and I could get some rest.

• • • Cash: Even with a house full of new furniture, it'll be hard to get some rest when you can't find your bed!

Carry: Your wife has certainly

Duane “Cash” Holze & Todd “Carry” Holze 04/19/20 04/19/15 ©The Classified Guys®

taken up an interesting hobby in retirement. Most people get into pastimes like fishing or scrapbooking, not rearranging furniture.

Cash: Moving your furnishings every now and then is quite common and can make your home more interesting, but rearranging every week is a bit extreme.

Maybe it's time to sit down and figure out what she's really trying to accomplish. Then, you can actually work together to make the house comfortable for both of you, or at least decide where to keep the dining table!

Carry: If you still find she needs a variety of new furniture, the classifieds can certainly be a

great option for acquiring what you want on a budget. Finding a whole house full of furniture may be a bit difficult, but you can certainly acquire it room by room.

Cash: Looking for someone who is moving is a great idea.

They are most likely to be the ones selling multiple pieces.

However, your next problem will be where to store all the extra furniture without making your garage look like a warehouse.

Carry: Also, have your wife visit garage sales in your area.

She may not only find lots of items, but it could become a hobby that replaces rearranging.

And that should give you a little more time to rest!

Fast Facts Nail Biting

Reader Humor Back Trouble

Whether it's moving furniture, smoking, or exercising, almost anything can become a habit.

And good or bad, some habits are hard to break. But one theory developed by Dr. Maxwell Maltz, author of Psycho-Cybernetics, claims habits can be formed or broken in 21 days. He originally found that it took amputees 21 days to stop feeling the phantom sensations in their amputated limb, but further studies revealed the time-frame applied to forming habits as well. During the three weeks of repeating the activity, new neuroconnections or pathways in the brain were created solidifying new behaviors.

My friend Chuck came into work Monday morning hunched over and in pain. One look told me that he somehow threw out his back over the weekend.

When I cornered him at lunch to find out what happened, he told me that it was his wife's birthday last weekend and as a gift she insisted he help rearrange the furniture in their living room.

"Let me guess," I said. "You threw out your back moving that ridiculously heavy and uncomfortable sofa bed that you guys own."

"Kind of," he groaned holding his back. "Moving it wasn't bad. But since I forgot it was her birthday Saturday, she made me sleep on it!"

Movin' on Up

If you enjoy a good moving sale, then you may be in luck.

According to US Census data, about 16% of the population or over 40 million people move each year. About half of those people move because they want to own a home, pay less for housing or live in a better neighborhood. About 25% move for family reasons, like getting married or divorced, and 16% move for work-related reasons, like a new job or shortening their commuting distance.

(Thanks to Peter. J)

Laughs For Sale

This "brass" lamp seems perfect for a fisherman.

FOR SALE Lamp. ass Floor Beautiful B t Condition.

Excellen Call eves. $85 OBO.

www.ClassifiedGuys.com APARTMENTS Adult Only Buildings at 5310-46 St and 4917 – 61 Ave in Vegreville.

Bachelor, 1 & 2 bdrm suites available for application and viewing. Rent incl.

Water, heat and Energized pkg stall.

Call 780-918-6328 Willowbrook 3 bedroom, 1 bath townhouse for rent April 1st. Nice neighbors, fenced yard, ample parking and is directly south of A.L. Horton School.

Rent is $875.00. For additional information and to view this unit, please contact or Murray at (780) 603-7772 or Linda at (587) 280-1727. NS/NP Arlington Place – 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom suite available. Very clean suites, quiet building, respectful tenants, and laundry on each floor. Rent is $725.00 to $775.00 and includes heat, water. NS/NP. Contact Murray at (780) 603-7772, or Linda at (587) 2801727.

AUTOMOBILES 2000 Windstar. Ex. engine & transmission. Body damage. For parts $750.

780-922-5999 2008 Dodge Calibar. Automatic.

Loaded. 150,000 Kms. Clean. $5200.

780-994-3005 2002 Honda Civic, Standard Drives Excellent Needs TLC $3200 780-9225999 Rare Super Charged 40th Anniversary Grand Prix. Loaded. $4700. Phone 780-994-3005 2010 damaged Dodge Caliber 125,000kms. Drives excellent. For parts. $1500. Phone 780-994-3005 2005 Mercedes Smart Car diesel, automatic, black, 192,000kms, $3900.

780-994-3005.

HEALTH & FITNESS

COMPUTERS VM SYSTEMS Looking for a new computer? VM SYSTEMS has all you’ll ever need in computers! Installation – Sales – Service – Internet. One call will get you in touch. Phone 780-632-2859 9am – 5pm.

EDUCATION AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Get FAA approved hands on Aviation mechanic training. Financial Aid for qualified students - Career placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 888-686-1704 AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING – Get FAA Technician certification.

Approved for military benefits.

Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-453-6204

EQUIPMENT Retiring (equipment for sale) 875 Versatile tractor with 14’ (Degleman) mech angle dozer. Used very little.

Approx. 2500 hours on complete engine overhaul. New tires at same time. 20.8-38 duals radial planetares/ approx. 1000 hours on a new hydraulic pump, 90% of the time shedded.

1998-40’-820 flexicoil air seeder - 9” spacing and 550 lb. trip. Complete with a 1720 T behind air cart with a self-contained hydraulic system and a 20 horsepower motor (3 rollers).

Comes complete with a 2055 Valmar chemical applicator (like new). Cart and Valmar always shedded. Taking offers. Cell: 1-780-603-7754. After 8pm 1-780-632-7934

COMMERCIAL

FEED

For Rent: Main Street Vegreville store front. 3900+ sq. ft.

Landlord, motivated. Phone or text 780-632-0480

Wanted. Oats, Peas, Wheat, Barley, Canola: Dry, Wet, or Heated.

AlbertaFeedGrain.com 1-888-4838789

GENERIC VIAGRA and CIALIS! 100 Pills $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888889-5515

HOMES FOR RENT Advertise your rental property here for as little as $7.95 per week!

New 3 bdrm duplex Vegreville. $685/mo. Call 780-275-0089. New developments.

Newly upgraded, partially furnished, 1 bedroom bungalow.

Available May 1st. $450 Rent + utilities, excluding water. $450 DD. No pets. References required.

Phone: 780-632-1941 Near Aquatic Center in Vegreville.

Approx 450 Sq Ft., 1 bedroom, fully renovated, kitchen appliances, washer/dryer, soaker tub. NS, NP. $600/m + utilities. Same DD. References required. Call or text 780-632-0480

Yearling and Two Year Old Registered Red & Black Angus Bulls. Semen Tested. Brownalta Farms. 780-603-4882 LAKEFORD Registered Polled Hereford and Red Angus Bulls for Sale! Top Quality from a herd with over 50 years production history.

Contact Dan Prichard 780-385-2298 or 780-385-5125 For Sale: Simmental & Speckle Park Bulls, Yearling & 2 year olds. Semen tested. Free delivery. Ph: 780-9130221, 780-914-2521, 780-349-1936

2 bdr house in Vegreville. Close to downtown. $800/mo includes water but other utilities extra. DD same.

Non-smoking. No pets. References required. Call or text 780-940-4951.

LAND FOR SALE For Sale: 1 quarter section pasture.

SE-15-52-12-W4 (North of Ranfurly)

MISC. Reach millions of homes nationwide with one easy, affordable buy in the NANI Network! For more information go to www.afcp.org/nani !! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277 BECOME A PUBLISHED AUTHOR! We edit, print and distribute your work internationally. We do the work… You reap the Rewards! Call for a FREE Author’s Submission Kit: 866-951-7214

The News Advertiser can help you with your personal and commercial print work needs: business cards, invoices, envelopes, posters and much more.

Phone: 780-632-2861 or email jobsubmit@newsadvertiser.com

TO GIVE AWAY

LIVESTOCK Salers bulls for sale. Red, black &

tan. Very Quiet. Semen tested and PH: 780-768-2284

1993 Chev 4x4 Ext Cab. For parts. $650. 780-922-5999

2006 Ford 4x4 Crew Cab. New tires. $4600. 780-994-3005

2004 Dodge Dakota 4x4 loaded, superb condition. Low km. $6,500.

2000 Dodge Dakota V8, 4x4, farm truck. $1600. 780-922-5999

2002 GMC 4x4 HD ¾ ton Service Truck 340k $3500 780-922-5999

1997 Ford 7.3 Diesel, 4 x 4, missing

transmission. Nice deck, $2800. 780922-5999

2004 Chev 4 x 4, new t/case, canopy, $3200. PH: 780-994-3005

2002 F250 Crew cab, 7.3 diesel.

Loaded. 410,000kms. $6500 PH: 780994-3005

WANTED

PRINTING

Call Ron 780-215-8422

delivered. Scattered spruce salers.

TRUCKS

780-632-3527.

3 Bdrm Mobile Home, N/P PH: 780208-9608

V

To Give Away: Fabric face masks, 780-768-2180

Wanted: Garlic for seed of different varieties. 780-645-2811

Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, Co. 80201 ADVERTISE to 10 Million Homes across the USA! Place your ad in over 140 community newspapers, with circulation totaling over 10 million homes. Contact Independent Free Papers of America IFPA at danielleburnett-ifpa@live.com or visit our website cadnetads.com for more information

APRIL 22, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

News Advertiser PAGE 15

Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Addresses COVID-19 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser Q: When I look outside on a daily basis, I’m not sure people get the seriousness of this pandemic. What do you have to say to those who feel that this is overblown or some sort of “Fake News”?

A: I want to say “Stay Home and take this seriously!”. This pandemic is not about you, it’s about all of you. What I mean is that although a healthy young

adult is at little risk catching the flu, there are MANY Albertan’s who are fatally affected. Due to the fast-spreading nature of COVID-19, the hospitals would become overwhelmed if there were not interventive measures. This would then lead to even more deaths.

So even though you might not be at risk, please think of those that are. It is YOUR responsibility as a member of our society to stop the spread.

Open Letter to Minister - CONTINUED from PAGE 11 supply chain remains intact?

Minister, while we understand that the situation Canada faces is unprecedented, it is incumbent on you to answer these questions and clarify your government’s position on these issues. It has been apparent that when it comes to the agriculture sector – your government has been reactive, instead of proactive.

This must change. It’s time for your government to provide certainty to the agriculture sector and all Canadians.

We look forward to your response.

Sincerely, John Barlow, Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Foothills Richard Lehoux, Associate Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Beauce Lianne Rood, Deputy Shadow Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex

16

POSTPONED For info regarding the trade show contact Jennifer 780.275.0473 Arbonne/Dawn 780.753.0703 • As Seen At Trade Shows www.asseenattradeshows.com • Crafts by JJ Jocelyn 780.632.6935 • Epicure Connie 780.603.7669 • Gold Canyon Sandi 780.238.5775 • Juice Plus Alicia 780.603.8095 • Lampligher Gifts Marlene 780.632.2743 • Linda's Linens Linda 780.764.2487 Lovestruck Artisan Soapery Desiree 780.678.5724 • Magnum 4 Peeler Murray 587.523.4626 • Mary Kay Nancy 780.632.1420 • My Little Sewing Projects Jennifer 780.275.0473 • Norwex Susan 780.657.2116 Pampered Chef Jennifer 780.275.0473 • Scentsy Sherilynn- 780.632.9681 • Stenia's Kitchen Stenia 780.691.4094 • Thirty One Gifts Lisa 780.603.7044 • Voxx Life Susan 780.657.2116 • Young Living Oils Jennifer 780.717.8969

For product, catalogue, information:

Q: Why is self-isolation so important?

A: Isolating is the most effective way to slow the spread of COVID-19.

The more Albertans that isolate, the faster we can get past this pandemic.

Of course, I want to do my part, and to protect my family, friends, and neighbours.

Do you have a question for MLA Jackie that you think our readers would be interested in? Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com This article has been edited for length and clarity. To read the full version please visit www.newsadvertiser.com

PAGE 16

News Advertiser

APRIL 22, 2020

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Tributes MEMORIAM

MEMORIAM

In memory of a loving husband OGRODNICK, Clarence April 10, 2010 When life seems a blur, And I can’t quite believe That I’m living without you That ten years ago you were taken from me, I sit back and think Of the memories we shared, The many laughs that you gave me You always showed how much you cared.

As I lay back and reflect, On the good times we had.

The memories flow still, But I’m no longer quite as sad.

Over the last several years I feel I’ve been blessed I am with someone who’s so much like you He’s helped me through this mess.

I feel a warmth on my skin I just know you are near.

Not on the outside But from somewhere within.

The warmth is you Letting me know Everything will be okay.

I am never alone.

I place a letter to you On the stone with your name, Telling you I’m okay, That here you must remain.

As I walk away An eagle flies overhead.

He tips his wings as if to say I’m still here, just resting my head Love always, Sandra

YALOWICA, Liz April 25, 1953 - April 22, 2016 God called your name so softly And no one heard the footsteps Of angels drawing near, It broke our hearts to lose you.

But you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you The day God called you home.

Your Loving Family

ELKOW, Anne In memory of Anne Elkow January 7, 1920 - April 17, 2016 We thought of you with love today But that is nothing new.

We thought of you yesterday And days before that, too.

We think of you in silence We often speak your name All we have are memories And your picture in a frame.

Your memory is our keepsake With which we’ll never part.

God has you in His keeping We have you in our hearts.

Loving and missing you always, Russell, Zinnia Anne-Marie, Lindsay, Laurel, Logan Marcella, Terry, Mariah, Isabelle

MEMORIAM

FODCHUK, Alice April 17, 2019 Time slips by and life goes on But from our hearts you’re never gone.

We think of you and always talk about you too.

We have so many memories But we wish we still had you.

With love, Orest, Barbara, Beverly, Jo-Anne, Lorna

YADLOWSKY, Mike In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather who passed away April 20, 2009.

As life unfolds another year Treasured memories keep you near Silent thoughts of times together Are memories that last forever.

So may the winds of love blow gently And whisper that you hear How much we love and miss you And wish that you were here.

Forever in our hearts and prayers.

Lovingly remembered by wife Marie and family

SENIUK, Nicholas August 13, 1923 - April 17, 2014 In memory of a loving husband, father and Gido who entered eternal rest on April 17, 2014.

Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way; Though absent, you are ever near, Still missed, loved, always dear.

While you rest and sleep, Your loving memory we’ll always keep.

Dear God, take a message To Heaven above.

Tell him how much we miss him, And give him all our love.

Sadly missed and forever loved Marcia and the family

LASCHOWSKI, Lena July 1, 1924 - April 23, 2012 Gone are the days we used to share, But in our hearts you are always there.

The gates of memory will never close, We miss you more than anyone knows.

With tender love and deep regret, We who love you will never forget.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by all your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

YALOWICA, LIZ April 25, 1953 - April 22, 2016 In Fondest Memory of our Beloved Mother and Baba All it takes is one picture, one memory, one song Ever since you left us, everything seems wrong The sadness can hit me and knock me on the floor They say it gets easier but it’s hurting so much more I still can hear your voice and I visualize your face But all I want is to have you right back in your place Can you hear me Mama, in my dreams I call for you I try so hard to get to you but I don’t know what to do Can you see me Mama, are you watching over me?

Is Heaven all they say it is, peaceful and happy?

Your family is hurting, it’s so hard since you’ve been gone I’m tearing up so much now but I once was very strong Losing you has changed me, made me someone new I know you want me content so I’ll try to be that for you Please watch over all of us, from your star up in the sky And every time I think of you, I’ll try hard not to cry Can you hear me Mama, calling out your name I feel you all around me but it will never be the same Can you see me Mama, as you look down from your cloud?

I hope and pray with all my might that I still make you proud.

Rest in peace our angel, one day we will be together.

The next time I see you, it will be forever.

Happy Birthday Mom, Baba and Great Baba xo Remembered, loved and missed endlessly by Teresa, Zehlon and Zephra

OBITUARY

JASINSKI, Ann (Moroziuk) March 9, 1917 – April 17, 2020 Ann Jasinski, beloved wife of Anthoni (Tony), of Vegreville passed away on Friday, April 17, 2020 at the age of 103 years old.

Ann will always be loved and remembered by her daughter Adele (Les) Zaharichuk, sons Eugene (Darlene) Jasinski, Jerry (Marian) Jasinski, Roger (Janice) Jasinski; grandchildren, Sheldon (Juanita Tavares) Zaharichuk, Trevor (Victoria) Zaharichuk, Stacia Jasinski, Andrea (Chase) Weigel, Corey Jasinski, Krystie (Kyle) Webb, Kimberly Jasinski and greatgrandchildren, Lucas and Wesley Zaharichuk plus many other cousins, nephews and nieces.

Ann was born and educated in Alberta and spent the last 53 years residing in Vegreville with her late husband Tony of 60 years.

Ann was actively involved in the community through the Roman Catholic Church and Royal Purple and others.

Ann really loved to cook and share it with anyone she could. She was also very passionate about animals & gardening.

A Private Liturgy Of The Word for family will be held on Friday, April 24, 2020 at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville with Father Luan Vu as the Celebrant.

Interment in Riverside Cemetery.

Donations in mom’s memory may be made to a pet rescue center of your choice.

We would like to extend our Thanks to the Century Park Green Cottage staff for their outstanding care and comfort. Your assistance was above and beyond expectations. You all helped keep mom comfortable. You will forever be in our hearts.

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com AUTUMN ROSE FUENRAL HOME LTD. VEGREVILLE, 780-603-5800

APRIL 22, 2020

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Carrot the Snowmen Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Chantelle Banack and her children, Connor and Carter Shevoley, decided to build two snowmen to

spend some quality time with her mother and the children’s grandmother while she was visiting them.

Connor and Carter said they named both of the snowmen, Carrot.

Chantelle Banack with her children, Connor and Carter besides the two snowmen they named both, Carrot. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

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APRIL 22, 2020

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Activities to Keep up Spirits While Being Indoors Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent The activities children or people of all ages can do while being indoors are numerous, all people have to do is be creative.

One of the ways is to participate in a dictionary draw. People randomly look up different words and then they draw a realistic, fantasy, and fun picture of the word they picked out.

People can also write a diary or do some journaling.

Scrapbooking is also a fun and interesting activity to do; or just look at old pictures from a photo album and reflect on the stories each one holds from the past.

Also, families and friends could write a story together where each person writes a paragraph from the other person’s paragraph and they can continue the story together.

Children can make their own book by drawing and colouring their own pictures. If they don’t feel creative, an adult can draw pictures for them. Store brought colouring books or activity books are also a good way to spend time.

Another idea is parents or adults can teach children how to make God’s eyes or how to do finger knitting.

Nowadays, families usually don’t have time to cook together, so being indoors gives everyone a chance to cook from

scratch and invent recipes together or find a cook book in the house and try out the different recipes in there.

It’s also fun to make magazine beads which are done by cutting long triangle paper from magazine and then wrap it around a knitting needle or tooth pick. These beads can be varnish if people want to make it more durable and give it an interesting touch.

Another idea is to draw a self-portrait; it doesn’t have to be perfect.

There are also activities that are low cost and can consist of playing board games families already own or if there are none of these around, families can play tic tac toe with a sheet of paper and a pencil.

Most of all, it is important to have fun as every moment of a person life is precious.

Sign of the Times This COVID-19 message was recently posted on the Tofield Fire Department Society’s community sign in the Town of Tofield. (Submitted/Photo)

APRIL 22, 2020

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COVID-19 Weekly Regional Update Michelle Pinon News Advertiser The provincial government implemented several new measures last week.

One of those measures was to make COVID-19 testing available to anyone with symptoms.

New guidelines and standards to help prevent the spread of the respiratory virus and manage outbreaks. One of the latest changes includes the usage of masks for staff in long-term care, senior lodges, designated supported living facilities and licensed residential addiction treatment facilities.

The Chief Medical Officer of Health can now require health care facility operators to share information necessary to restrict staff from working at more than one facility. Other outbreak control standards apply to operators, staff, service providers, residents, and essential visitors.

On April 15, Premier Jason Kenney announced $53 million in mental health funding would be made available to Albertans. The funding includes $21.4 million for improving access to telephone and online supports, includ-

ing the Mental Health Helpline and the Kids Help Phone.

An additional $25 million is going toward those disproportionately affected by COVID-19, including seniors and Indigenous communities. The remaining funding will expand other familyviolence, addiction and mental health programs, including through the Primary Care Network.

In Alberta, there are 2,908 confirmed cases. On April 20 the province reported 105 new cases. There have been 59 deaths and 1,230 recovered cases. The number of completed tests has reached 105,317.

In Minburn County, there were: 1 case(s), 0 active, 1 recovered, and 0 deaths In Two Hills County, there were: 0 case(s), 0 active, 0 recovered, and 0 deaths In Lamont County there were: 1 case(s) 0 active, 1 recovered, and 0 deaths In Beaver County, there were: two cases, 0 active, 2 recovered, and 0 deaths

VIEWPOINT - CONTINUED from PAGE 6 comply with Google’s display policy without providing financial compensation.”

As a lifelong news person, I’m heartened by France’s get-tough approach with aggregators. Making Google pay for content it profits from will not solve all the news media’s financial problems, but it’s unquestionably a significant and concrete start.

And it’s so much more attractive than asking taxpayers to subsidize private

enterprises. News media need to find their own way out of the revenue darkness. With this new rule, at least they won’t be doing so with one hand tied behind their backs.

If this works, Canada should follow France’s lead and make the aggregators pay here, too.

Veteran political commentator Doug Firby is president of Troy Media Digital Solutions and publisher of Troy Media.

Residents on Their Best Behaviour Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

So far, Vegreville and area residents have been on their best behaviour during COVID-19 and obeying social distancing rules and other guidelines that were implemented by the provincial government Cpl. Leigh Drinkwater of the Vegreville RCMP said no fines have been issued by the members of the Vegreville Detachment, or the Community Peace Officers, to date.

“We have also received no complaints to date that require investigation or enforcement.

On March 25 the province introduced enforcement measures to protect the health and safety of its citizens to stop the spread of COVID-19.

It also made it mandatory for travellers returning from outside of

Canada to self-isolate. The legal requirement also applies to close contacts of confirmed COVID-19 cases, as well as to any individual with symptoms, such as a fever, cough, sore throat or runny nose.

Through amendments to the Procedures Regulation under the Provincial Offences Procedures Act, community peace officers, in addition to police, will be able to issue tickets to enforce COVID-19 public health orders. Fines now administered through tickets for violating an order have increased from up to $100 per day to a prescribed fine of $1,000 per occurrence. Courts will also have increased powers to administer fines of up to $100,000 for a first offence and up to $500,000 for a subsequent offence for more serious violations.

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APRIL 22, 2020

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Talk of the Town on Volunteering Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent National Volunteer Week for 2020 is held from April 19-25. This week is meant to show appreciation and celebrate Canada’s 12.7 million volunteers.

This year’s theme: ‘It’s time to applaud this country’s volunteers’.

The Town of Vegreville has so many volunteers who contribute numerous hours of their skills and talents to ensure Vegreville is one of the best communities to live in.

When citizens of Vegreville were asked why volunteers were important, their answers varied, but all held to the same sentiments that life would not be the same without volunteers.

Terry Kubin said she feels volunteering is great because you are active with other people of the same mind. “You are doing something for someone else which always makes you feel good. You are usually in a large group with intelligent people who have wonderful ideas and who spark other ideas,” Terry explained. “Most of all volunteers are important to society because they are free and they don’t mind being free.

They can pick and choose their activities with like-minded people. Also, there are many jobs that wouldn’t get done if it wasn’t for volunteers. They do make the world a better place. Just like our little great-grandson said, ‘Nana, I want to make the world a better place.’

Another resident of Vegreville, Ardythe Butler said volunteering shows we are a community that helps each other. “They say it takes a village to raise a child and all the wonderful volunteer programs that took place for my children from soccer, skating, Ukrainian dancing, and all the parents who took part to make that happen, they gave my children a wonderful childhood.

Volunteers make the community fun to live in.

As well, volunteers are always needed.

I think Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) are looking for ways to get volunteers organized to help people who need help during this crisis (COVID-19 pandemic). Then I just

think volunteering makes a community work. I think volunteers just make it a good experience for a refugee family who are quite content to live in Vegreville over a big city because volunteers took the time to spend time with them and help them to learn and grow.

So, I think volunteers are super and extremely important,” added

St. Martin`s School - CONTINUED from front page story hit Facebook on Saturday we have sent headbands to St. Joseph’s Hospital, Two Hills Health Centre, local EMS, and have a package going to the Vegreville Care Centre Tuesday morning.`` In terms of production, each ear guard takes an hour to make. As of Noon on April 14, they had produced nearly 70 of them. The ear guards are free, and Sorochan said they have been very much appreciated, especially since many frontline workers are now required to wear their masks during their entire shift.

As far as other requests, Sorochan said, “We have had some of our student’s parents reach out and ask for family and friends who work in the healthcare industry and we have passed on to them as well. Monday evening a nurse from the Border City Clinic in Lloydminster asked for some so we are going to send some there.”

The plan is to keep printing the bands while there is a demand for them. Sorochan added that if anyone with a 3D printer wants to contribute, they can go to https://www.thingiverse. com/thing:4249113 for the pattern.