Vegreville News Advertiser - August 26, 2020

VOL. 73 NO. 35

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Pioneers in the Park Program at Vegreville EDMONTON • LAMONT • MAYERTHORPE • SMOKY LAKE

Pioneers in the Park Organizers from left to right, Kyeler Tymafichuk, Interrupter for Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, Roxy Iszcenko, Interpreters for UCHV, Ashley Halko-Addley, Seasonal Program Manager for Friends of Ukrainian Village Society, Meredith Comba, Interpreters for UCHV. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Children between 6 and 12 years of age were able to experience pioneer life in East Central Alberta before 1930 at the Pioneers in the Park Program at Vegreville Elks/Kinsmen Park on August 20.

This free event featured socially distanced crafts and activities as well as lessons in Ukrainian dancing.

Ashley Halko-Addley, Seasonal Program Service

Manager for Friends of Ukrainian Village Society, said this organization normally has children programming at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.

“However, since we are not doing the children programming at the Ukrainian Village because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, we decided to bring some of our activities to communities. Then all of our activi-

Pioneers in the Park - CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

County of Two Hills Declares Agricultural State of Disaster

Raymond Serna Speaks on Farm Safety

See page 9 for story

See page 12 for story

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August 26, 2020

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WHAT’S INSIDE Agriculture.....................13 Business............................5 Classifieds......................14 County of Two Hills..........9 Employment....................7 Family.............................18 Harvest Safety.....10,11,12 Marketplace...................17 Notices.............................8 Real Estate......................19 Sports.............................20 Tributes..........................16 Upcoming......................15

Vegreville Parent Attends Project Safe Page 17

Families Participate in Pioneers in the Park’s Activitiess Page 18

4-DAY WEATHER Thurs.

19°C

Fri. 22°C

Sat. 16°C

Sun. 14°C

MORE ON PAGE 15

LOTTERY NUMBERS Friday, August 21, 2020

1 2 5 11 20 30 39

MORE ON PAGE 17

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RCMP files from August 17 - 23 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser August 17 09:24 – Traffic stop conducted by traffic services for speeding. The driver was charged for speeding with a voluntary penalty of $183. The driver also failed to provide an insurance card for which they received a warning.

09:54 – Report of tires being punctured on the sidewall while the vehicle was parked at home in the town of Vegreville. Under investigation.

11:45 – Report received that a driver of a blue Suzuki was talking on their cell phone while driving. A license plate was provided but members were unable to locate the vehicle. Follow-up pending.

12:17 – Complainant attended the detachment to report a bag of seeds that was received via the mail from China. The matter has been referred to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

14:29 – Report of a catalytic converter being stolen at some time in the past few months from a truck located in the town of Mundare.

19:56 – Report of a break and enter in progress in the town of Vegreville.

Members attended and determined there was no break and enter in progress and the person reported as doing the break and enter was presently in jail.

23:29 – Report of an intoxicated male banging on a door at a residence.

Members attended and located a 31-year-old male who was arrested for mischief and lodged in cells for his safety until sober.

August 18 00:31 – Complaint received about a possibly impaired driver travelling towards Mundare. The vehicle was identified and it was located parked at a residence in Mundare but were unable to confirm the driver of the vehicle. The owner was informed of the complaint.

15:26 – Traffic stop conducted by Traffic Services on Hwy 16. A 37-yearold Edmonton man was observed travelling 159 Kmph in a 110 Kmph zone in a company vehicle. The driver was issued a ticket with a voluntary penalty of $482. *** Traffic services was in the area for

a few hours and issued approximately 21 tickets throughout the evening.

18:22 – Report of vehicle damage where paint was scratched. CCTV used to identify the individual who was riding a bicycle when they ran into the vehicle.

The individual agreed to pay the owner of the vehicle for the damages.

August 19

11:42 – Report of 2 ornamental flamingos being stolen from a garden area of a home in Vegreville.

14:56 – Report of threats from one male to another in Lamont County.

Members attended and spoke to both males. It was determined that both individuals were safe and no threats were made.

Substance abuse was believed to be a factor and family members intervened.

August 20

09:05 – Report of a residential break and enter in rural Lamont County. The house, garage and machine shop were all entered. Investigation is ongoing.

09:33 – Report of theft of copper cable from a location in north of Vegreville. Under investigation.

10:31 – Report of theft of wire and a shed being broken into from a location in Vegreville. Under investigation.

16:49 – Report of a male trespassing on private property who has previously been served a notice not to be on the property.

Members attended and located the subject of the complaint. A ticket was issued under the “Trespass to Premises” Act with a voluntary penalty of $300.

17:05 – Report of a male on an undersized (for him) BMX bike who approached the complainant and asked if they wanted to smoke a joint with him. Patrols were made but turned up negative.

August 21

14:02 – Report of multiple phone calls that are “CRA” scams. Now the “Royal Police of Canada” are calling and indicating that there is a problem with the complainant’s SIN. No information was provided and the complainant was provided information for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

August 22

20:18 – Traffic stop conducted on Hwy 16A. The driver of the vehicle was

issued tickets for operating a vehicle without proper registration (VP of $324) as well as displaying an improper plate (VP of $324).

21:33 – Report of a vehicle which passed a rescue unit on a double solid area of the highway. Under investigation.

22:14 – Call received about an individual who overheard someone talking on their cell phone who claimed they were going to break the windows and then steal from a Vegreville business.

Members located the individual in the vicinity of the business in question.

They spoke to the subject of the complaint and determined it was a misunderstanding. The subject was cautioned about their choice of words.

23:18 – Call received to request that the complainant’s youth be brought home as it was 18 minutes past their curfew.

Members mediated the situation.

August 23

09:07 – Traffic enforcement by Traffic Services in the area resulting in approximately 15 speeding tickets as well as other ticket worthy offences.

12:22 – Complaint received regarding a light coloured truck which had a decal that the caller felt was offensive and could be terror-related. The decal depicted a man along with bullets and a spear. The vehicle was leaving the area and plate information was insufficient for follow-up.

17:21 – Report of a bicycle stolen overnight from a residence in Vegreville. The bike is described as “all chrome stiletto extended”. The same complainant later reported another stolen bike described as “a 1981 Factory Giant Chopper.”

Reporting for information purposes.

During the week there were 118 calls for service made in total including: 1 false alarm, 2 false 911s, 0 animal strike, 3 wellbeing checks and approximately 44 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.

Smoky Lake RCMP Investigate Motorcycle Fatality Smoky Lake RCMP Submitted Smoky Lake, Alta. – On Aug. 22, 2020, at approximately 2:50 p.m., Smoky Lake RCMP received a report of a single vehicle motorcycle collision on Highway 831 north of the North Saskatchewan River near Victoria Trail in the County of Smoky Lake, Alta.

Smoky Lake RCMP and emergency medical services (EMS) attended to the scene of the collision and the 46-year-old female motorcyclist from Fort McMurray

was taken to hospital by EMS where she was pronounced deceased.

Preliminary investigation indicates the motorcyclist was heading northbound on Highway 831 and lost control near Victoria Trail, striking the guard rail.

Smoky Lake RCMP are investigating this fatality. The name of the deceased will not be released.

The area of the collision remained restricted to traffic for a period of time until the highway was re-opened.

No further updates are anticipated.

August 26, 2020

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Vegreville Food Bank Seeking Volunteers Michelle Pinon News Advertiser The Vegreville Food Bank is currently seeking volunteers.

would not have qualified for EI in the past, adding more than 400,000 people into the program. Those receiving EI will be eligible for a taxable benefit rate of at least $400 per week, or $240 per week for extended parental benefits, and regular benefits will be accessible for a minimum duration of 26 weeks.

The data breaks down counts by age, number of individuals and households served between January and July 2020.

(Vegreville Food Bank/Submitted)

Joanna Karczmarek, Coordinator of the Vegreville Food Bank Society, said they need at least seven more volunteers, and ideally 15 in order to have a healthy volunteer base.

“In terms of volunteer numbers, a healthy volunteer base ensures that volunteers are not overworked and has replacements that are available if someone needs to stay home due to illness,” stated Karczmarek.

With the federal government’s announcement on August 20 to transition as many Canadians as possible back to the Employment Insurance (EI) system at the end of the month, a surge in the number of food hamper recipients is expected.

According to the government press release, changes to the Employment Insurance, (EI) program and new income support benefits will better support all Canadians.

They also announced that in preparation for this transition and to ensure support continues for Canadians whose employment has been impacted by the pandemic, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will be extended by an additional four weeks to a maximum of 28 weeks. This means that for the many Canadians expecting to exhaust their CERB benefits at the end of August, they will now be able to access an additional month of support.

As well, “EI will now be available to more Canadians, including those who

The government will continue to work with provinces and territories to ensure Canadians receiving EI benefits have access to skills training and employment supports, to help them get back to work.”

To prepare for the potential increase we are currently seeking and training volunteers,” noted Karczmarek. “Our client numbers were significantly lower this April than last year, a difference of 41 households. They are trending upward, however, and we will likely see what's in your a surge in the fall. In my opinion, the CERB applications being opened in April, a one time increase of $300 per child in the May Canada Child Benefit, Tr a v e l b a c k i n t i m e a t t h e (CCB) installment, and many people Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village trying to stay home as much as possible a n d e x p l o r e L a m o n t C o u n t y. are all reflected in our stats. I believe that when the CERB ends this September we will get a spike in client numbers, and again in May after CERB income has been taxed. Unemployment could become an increasing factor if businesses are not able to recoup after the impact of COVID-19.”

The food bank is currently in need of hygiene products, and we accept used plastic bags and reusable bags.

Donations are always welcomed. For more detailed information contact the Vegreville Food Bank.

Discover

Backyard

Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is open Tuesday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until September 7th ukrainianvillage.ca | lamontcounty.ca

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Time to Lower Your Expectations Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser - Opinion Last week, Ipsos released the findings of a poll commissioned by Global which confirmed what we have been seeing develop over a number of years now. It’s time to lower your expectations.

Once upon a time we were shocked and appalled by the uncovering of the Liberal “Ad Scam”. Descriptions of brown bags full of money provided some insight into the corruption involved in the government and bureaucracy at the highest levels. On the Conservative side, there were the Senators’ fraudulent expense claims and G8 funding being doled out in a minister’s riding far from the actual summit.

Now, many years later, only those card-carrying members of the right or left who follow blindly would say everything is normal. For many of them, perhaps this IS normal.

Unfortunately, the recent Ipsos poll shows us that, for most Canadians, none of this really matters. Fifty-six percent of Canadians surveyed agreed that the WE charity scandal showed that PM Trudeau and his government are corrupt and deserve to be defeated in the next election. At the same time, for 62 percent of respondents, Trudeau & his government have apologized and it’s time to move on.

So while 56 percent see the government is corrupt, 62 percent are OK with an apology. Carry on. Nothing to see here.

Name: Nicole Fortier Occupation: Bartender Likes: dogs, shopping Dislikes: rude people, bugs.

Now THAT is lowering the bar. Keep in mind, that before the last election, voters were already aware of two other ethics violations (Aga Khan vacation & SNC Lavalin) as well as his blackface episodes, and Trudeau was still elected into power.

If you are as perplexed as I am with the polling results, clearly (like me) you are some sort of dinosaur and need to lower your expectations. It seems that orruption and lies are the new norm and we need to be OK with that if we are to fit in.

At the same time, this obviously is not a Canadian thing. I recall a number of years ago, an acquaintance telling me that I was lucky to live in Canada because in his country they had so much corruption. After a brief chuckle, I commented to him that our government was just as corrupt, we simply cared about trying to hide it, (usually unsuccessfully). Years later, there seems to be no desire to hide. You simply get caught and apologize.

If you look at the three-ring circus to the south, you can really see what may become the epitome of lowered expectations. Every day the fact checker’s computers almost melt as they comb through all the claims of President Trump’s speeches and Tweets. They often find, as one might expect, no basis in reality.

One of the biggest threats to US democracy is ironically the commander in chief himself. President Trump has been repeatedly calling into question the validity of mail-in ballots and even the ability of the US Postal Service to deliver these ballots on time. Oddly, Canadians are able to vote by mail, do not question the validity, and quite simply the system works.

A number of states in the US, including Colorado, also have mail-in ballots.

In the last few days, the Senator for Colorado as well as the US Postal Chief have been very public about their confidence in the ability to deliver an effective mail-in ballot. While executing an election during a pandemic will be daunting, the US doesn’t need its leaders making it even harder.

Outside of North America, every day brings a new story about civil unrest and chaos, often linked to displeasure with governments suspected of corruption.

As Canadians, we are often caught looking down our noses at other countries as we brag about how great Canada is and how we have a democracy to be envied. At the same time, it is important to realize that the bar is being lowered on a daily basis. We have an amazing system that delivers a free vote that actually matters. This is far better than some countries.

Unfortunately, after the vote, what we get can sometimes leave us wanting.

Now, keep this in mind when you are duped by a scam artist, sold something “not exactly as illustrated” by an online seller or told a little white lie (or a blatant one) by someone you trust. They are a product of their environment, they’ve learned from the best and it’s time to lower your expectations.

Tell me what you think.

Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

August 26, 2020

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School Divisions’ School Re-entry Plan and COVID-19 Safety Protocols Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent There are 379 school authorities in Alberta. They include 741, 802 Kindergarten to Grade 12 students, and approximately 35,000 full-time teachers.

The four school divisions within the Vegreville News Advertiser circulation area are the Battle River School Division, St. Paul Education School Division, Elk Island Public Schools, and Elk Island Catholic Schools.

Each of these school’s divisions will be affected by the Alberta School Re-entry Plan for Kindergarten to Grade 12 where teachers, students, and staff will be going back to school at the beginning of September. All the information that has been distributed is subjected to change as the school year progresses.

Battle River School Division’s students will be heading back to school on September 3.

Diane Hutchinson, Director for Communications for Battle River School Division, (BRSD) said they are working hard to ensure they are able to implement all of the safety measures and protocols that are being mandated by the Alberta Government. “Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of every student and staff member,” Hutchinson explained.

“We recognize that there is anxiety and we’re doing our best to provide learning and teaching opportunities that can help people be comfortable.

BRSD will have a roster of in-person and at-home learning programs for students at all grade levels. The parent survey, which is currently underway, indicates a percentage of families will choose athome learning this fall.

“We are grateful that the province is providing re-usable masks to schools, for students in Grade 4 to 12, as well as for

staff, along with some other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). We have also purchased additional supplies of hand sanitizer and disinfectant, as well as arranging for additional custodial staff to be in schools during the day. These costs are covered through our Facilities’ budget. They are significant, but necessary to a safe environment,” maintain Hutchinson explained.

St. Paul’s Education School Division’s website states there will be an adjustment for the first two days of school where 50 percent of the students will start school on September 2 and these same students will not attend school on September 3.

The reminding students who attended on September 3, who did not attend on September 2, will attend on September 3.

All students will then attend together on September 4.

Students’ lockers will be available to use but change rooms lockers will remain closed. Each school will create a plan using staggered break times for locker use.

St. Paul’s Education will allow junior and senior high school sports to resume. But there can only be practices; no leagues or tournaments are going to happen. Cohorts of up to 50 people are allowed.

St. Paul’s Education is offering remote learning for students to continue to work from home starting in September.

Students who choose this avenue of learning will still be connected to their home school by school newsletter, virtual access to the Family Liaison Worker, and specialized learning supports. With this way of learning, students will also have access to an assigned teacher who will direct the learning activities, provide assistance, and set the schedule of learning activities.

The Alberta Government will provide

two reusable masks to students and staff, as well as face visors to teaching staff, thermometers, hand sanitizer, and other PPE. Elk Island Catholic Schools (EICS) students will be returning to school on EICS will also provide September 1. online programming for students from Grades 1-12.

Shawn Haggarty, Superintendent for EICS, stated in a video on the EICS website, that they will be providing a safe and caring place for all students and staff.

There will be very strict screening protocols for all staff and students. EICS also purchased high grade cleaning systems that kill the COVID virus. This system will be utilized before, during, and after school hours.

Elk Island Public Schools will resume classes on September 1. EIPS will offer both in-class and out-of-school learning.

The out-of-school learning will be different classroom learning than the alternative learning offered at the end of the 2019-20 school year where for the 202021 school year. All out-of-school learning will be directed by the parent or guardian using the divisionwide learningmanagement system, D2L Brightspace.

Teachers will not be directly involved in student learning but will assess student work and provide assessment feedback.

#OpenInVegreville A partnership between the Town of Vegreville and the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce.

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Visit the Town's YouTube Page or the Chamber's Facebook to see video features of our local businesses!

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August 26, 2020

from the pages of the vegreville observer

Compiled by Dan Beaudette

90 Years Ago – August 27, 1930

Two firs in one evening, neither of them very serious, kept Chief Rodgers and his men busy Wednesday night. The first alarm was turned in shortly after 9 o’clock when a passerby happened to see flames in the Alberta Laundry building. When the brigade arrived and broke in the door, they found that the large rolls used for pressing large pieces of laundry, were in flames. Apparently the machine had been let turned on, as from time sparks would shoot from it. Damage was not extensive. The second alarm came when smoke was noticed in an old barn at the rear of the soap factory, but while the brigade answered the alarm in good time, neighbors had already put the fire out with buckets.

Construction work has commenced on the Vegreville court house which will be an imposing edifice when it is completed. The building will be a little larger than was at first anticipated and will occupy more ground space than the post office.

75 Years Ago – August 29, 1945

Nearly 2,000 people, including a large group of swimmers and officials from Edmonton, attended the official opening of the $40,000 Vegreville swimming pool. Built during the past year as a community venture, the pool forms the nucleus of $100,000 park project planned by Vegreville and district citizens on an eight-acre tract in the southern residential area of the town.

Rationing of small arms ammunition will be discontinued August 31st, and production controls have been cancelled on new farm machinery and office equipment, the Wartime Prices and Trade Board announced recently.

By the end of 1944, there were 35,856 women in Canada’s armed forces.

Wheat cutting in the New Kiew district is almost at a close; some farmers have commenced to cut coarse grains already. The usage of twine is certainly not heavy – in some cases a ball of twine lasts for a whole day’s cutting! Oh; well-we are certain to have bumper crops again next year.

Mr. H. Kott if New Kiew has sold his farm to Peter Grysiuk of Two Hills.

In the recent elections held to decide on a delegate for Alberta Wheat Pool in Sub-District F-8 the results were as follows: J.S. Kubin Vegreville 89: G. Ziegler, Vegreville 84: and D. Shyshiak 40.

A hail storm of unusual proportions passed through St. Paul and east, taking in a strip of 3 miles or more destroying all crops in its path, August 24th.

50 Years Ago – August 27, 1970

Fire of undetermined origin destroyed the United Grain Growers elevator at Ranfurly early Friday morning. The blaze was first noticed about 2:00 am and assistance was summoned from the Vegreville Fire Department. Although the fire fighters were unable to save the burning building, an adjacent elevator, also belonging to United Grain Growers was prevented from going up in flames.

Two members of the community have announced their intentions to seek the office of Chief Magistrate in Vegreville following the resignation of Mayor John Koshuta two weeks ago. Mike Craddock, who has served on town council for the past fifteen year, and Virgil Moshansky, well-known barrister of the community announced this week they will seek the chair.

Vegreville resident, V.J. Forst, has been named The Top Correspondent of The Year in Canadian utilities Limited, Vegreville district. Vic, marketing representative for the company, writes a regular column and provides pictures for the company’s magazine. The transmitter, as well as an occasional feature article about his community.

25 Years Ago – August 29, 1995

Minburn County residents have told a waste management company to build its landfill somewhere else. And company officials say they will heed the residents’ advice. “I’m going to recommend we walk away from this one,” said John Deagle, district manager for BFI Waste Systems. “We tried, but it’s not being well received,” added Norm Nuttall, BFI divisional engineer. “You obviously don’t want a landfill here. I think the decision has been made. The message is loud and clear.”

The town’s proposals will do little to solve traffic concerns near St. Mary’s High School, says a nearby resident. “I’m very displeased,” said David Molstad. “This doesn’t touch the issue raided at all and is not satisfactory.” “The issue is not speeding. It’s the volumes of traffic using the back alley. We want to reduce the volumes. Policing the alley isn’t going to do that.”

People frequently ignore stop signs or speed at two particular intersections in town, according to Vegreville’s bylaw enforcement officer. “We’re having a real problem on 47 Street at 54A avenue (Diaper Avenue),” says Ken Podoborozny. Another concern is 58 Avenue where it angles into Birch Avenue in the town’s west end.

Podoborozny says running the intersection’s stop sign is a common occurance.

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.

China Targets Everyone in the World Fred McMahon Troy Media Contributor In a little-noted move, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) flexed its imperial muscle – criminalizing criticism of it anywhere on the planet – by issuing an arrest warrant for U.S. citizen Samuel Chu, a pro-democracy advocate for Hong Kong.

In fact, by publishing this op-ed, this media outlet and I are breaking CCP laws and subject to trial by a CCP-controlled court and life imprisonment under concentration camp conditions. Be warned, just by reading this you too are breaking CCP law, as you are showing sympathy for criticism of the CCP. Don’t think this is a rhetorical overstatement. The CCP may not come for us in the near future, but it has been busy abducting foreign citizens in other countries, threatening and assaulting protesters, and attacking free speech outside of China.

While Canadians know of many bad acts by the CCP, including taking hostage two Canadians (Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor) on spurious charges after the arrest of Meng Wanzhou in Canada, the extent to which Supreme Leader Xi Jingping has ramped up his assault on freedom internationally is less understood. And there’s no sign things will get better after they get worse – just that they will get worse.

The newest assaults rise from the security law the CCP forced on Hong Kong just over a month ago. It effectively outlaws any criticism of the party anywhere on the planet. Article 38 states: “This Law shall apply to offences … committed against the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region from outside the Region by a person who is not a permanent resident of the Region.”

In other words, the security law doesn’t just impose CCP law on Hong Kong; it imposes it on the world.

The law criminalizes advocating Hong Kong independence, subversion (effectively any criticism of the CCP), terrorism (any opposition to the CCP), and working with foreign groups such as the Fraser Institute, which had deep ties in Hong Kong. I have keynoted several events in Hong Kong promoting freedom. They are now illegal and everyone involved would be arrested and thrown in prison.

The language in the law is so broad that “‘it means just what [the CCP] chooses it to mean,” to quote Humpty Dumpty. In other words, anyone can be arrested anywhere for anything the CCP chooses.

It was imposed on Hong Kong on June 30. The CCP could

hardly wait to use its new toy, making for an eventful month of freedom suppression.

The first day it was in force, Hong Kong police arrested 300 protesters. The government banned a dozen pro-democracy candidates from an election scheduled for Sept. 9, then cancelled the election and arrested four young people, ages 16 to 21, for pro-democracy social media accounts. Officials have been pulling books from schools and libraries and started a purge of teachers and professors.

And now the police have asserted global power and have issued arrest warrants for six prodemocracy advocates outside Hong Kong, including U.S. citizen Chu. Other countries issue warrants for crimes committed by foreigners, but this is the first time a government has officially made criticism of its rulers an international crime. The CCP has pursued enemies outside China for years.

In 2015, it abducted five Hong Kong booksellers – one, a Swedish citizen, Gui Minhai, in Thailand, at least two in mainland China, and another one, a British citizen, disappeared from Hong Kong.

China temporarily released Gui in 2017 and then re-arrested him while he was being accompanied by two Swedish diplomats. When Sweden protested, it was subject to CCP bullying, threats, insults and economic attacks, all too familiar to Canadians. “Sweden probably has the worst relationship with China of any EU country,” said Bjorn Jerden, of the Swedish Institute of International Affairs.

Chinese embassy and consulate officials have orchestrated attacks on anti-CCP dissidents across the globe, including recent incidents in Britain, Australia and Canada.

CCP diplomats are the least diplomatic in the world, attacking host countries with outrageous charges, frequently labelling any criticism of the regime as racist, which is rich, given that regime mouthpieces often stoop to racist attacks. Just ask the U.S. ambassador to South Korea, a JapaneseAmerican who was attacked by Chinese media during his time as a naval commander in the Pacific because of his “blood, background, political inclination and values.” All of this was accelerated last year from the top. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi ordered diplomats to assume “a fighting spirit.”

Not to mention the horrors the CCP is visiting on Uyghur Muslims, the military confrontations it orchestrates globally, and the use of loans as cudgel against governments. This has created an anti-CCP backlash across Asia, Africa, Europe, India and the Americas.

But it doesn’t matter. The CCP takes the world as its oyster. Its actions and rhetoric are becoming more bellicose. Expect worse.

August 26, 2020

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Take me to the Park Anytime Kooper Gusnowski tries out a piece of playground equipment at Vegreville Lions Community Pirate Park.

(Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Kooper Gusnowski was found everywhere as he explored all the interesting equipment at Vegreville Lions Community Pirate Park on July 15.

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August 26, 2020

Lamont County Applies to Province for Disaster Relief

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Lamont County is applying for disaster relief to the Alberta Emergency Management Agency.

The municipality will be filing two separate applications, one is for flooding which occurred between April 14 and May 5, and the other one for flooding which occurred between June 8 and June 15.

Even though affected property owners cannot apply for disaster relief program funding until Lamont County’s applications have been approved, the county is encouraging ratepayers to begin the process as soon as possible in order to speed up the application pro-

cess once it’s opened.

As posted on the county’s website, “After a disaster, Lamont County can apply for a Disaster Recovery Program (DRP). If the application is approved, Lamont County will notify the public immediately; affected residents will have 90 days (after program approval) to apply for financial assistance.”

The 2018 Flood Disaster Recovery Application ($1.2M) was prepared in September/October, reviewed, and forwarded to Province. On February 4, 2020, the County received $34,000 which is 50% of the Emergency Operations Cost Project. The Province stated they are still reviewing the submission.”

On June 10, 2020, during a Special Meeting of Council, a State of Agricultural Disaster was declared for Lamont County. On June 8, 2020, Lamont County Council declared a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) due to overland flooding and drainage issues.

Public works has reported 18 closed roads, and 19 opened roads as of Aug. 20. The number one priority for road repairs is to make sure closed roads are opened and school bus routes are serviceable for bus traffic. Over 2,000 culvert sites, (not including approach/ driveway culverts) have been inspected

lamont county - CONTINUED ON PAGE 13

August 26, 2020

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County of Two Hills Declares Agricultural State of Disaster Michelle Pinon News Advertiser The County of Two Hills has declared an Agricultural State of Disaster.

The declaration came during the Aug. 19 council meeting. According to County of Two Hills Agricultural Fieldman Eldon Kozak, there has been extensive and continuous rain and flooding in certain areas of the county this spring and summer.

Kozak told members of council, “There will be some hardships at harvest time.” He went on to say some producers are facing “serious financial hardship” as a result of the flooding.

Reeve Don Gulayec said it doesn’t cost anything to acknowledge that producers are having hard times. He said it was also a way of showing their support for producers. The rest of council were in agreement and passed a motion to that effect.

Kozak said there has been flooding in May, June, and July. “Some of it’s still going on now,” added Kozak, who had been out inspecting a road underwater,

“We were hoping that some of this water would run off the land and that it wouldn’t be quite as severe as it was.

It seems like every couple of weeks those folks out there get some significant rainfall events, and then we’re back to spring-like conditions where we have overland flooding for short periods of time.

When they get rains of four to six inches in one event when the ground is saturated, it doesn’t take much rainfall to affect seeded crops, hay, and yards.

Shelterbelt trees are dying. For those people affected it is quite serious.”

The county has been supporting producers in several ways, added Kozak, “By keeping the waterways open as best we could. Opening plugged culverts and replacing damaged culverts. We’re trying to do what we can on the municipal right of ways to help these folks out.

We don’t have the staff, the means, or the authority to go on private land and just start randomly trenching.

We’ve had a trapper working since spring and we’ve had two or three

These are some of the fields that have received extensive flooding this spring and summer in the west end of the County of Two Hills. (Brooke Romaniuk/Submitted Photo)

this week. “We still have overland flooding,” Kozak said most of the flooding is west of Secondary Highway 857, and north and south of Secondary Highway 45. “Virtually everybody west of 857 that way is affected in some way, shape, or form.”

Normally it costs between $200-300 per acre to seed a crop, and Kozak said if they lose $400-600 per acre the losses can add up quickly. That also applies to hay, which normally sells for between $60 and $100 per bale.

“When the county declares an ag. disaster that does not trigger any kind of financial relief whatsoever. It’s more or less to raise awareness and make the provincial government aware of the hardships these people are facing. If the province declares an ag. disaster provincially then that’s where you see some financial assistance whether it be crop insurance or whatever is controlled by the Alberta Government. Farmers would perhaps be able to see some financial relief then.

As to why the county didn’t declare an ag. disaster sooner? Kozak said,

backhoes going all day every day doing culvert installs and repairs.

We’ve had a couple of bridge files we’re working on so that water has been a serious headache for both ratepayers and the municipality.”

Producer Gerald Hill, along with about a dozen other farmers have been severely affected by the flooding.

He said the area of the f looding is mostly within a seven-mile radius, west of Secondary Highway 857, between Township Road 550 and 540. Hill, who owned 10 quarter sections in the area, said he had 352 acres that could not be seeded, and lost another 70 acres of seeded canola at the end of July due to f looding.

From mid-May up until last Saturday, he has recorded 24 inches of rain.

“There are a lot of us who farm near Spring Creek.” Compounding the situation is the fact that some of Hill’s neighbours are illegally draining their sloughs, which in turn has flooded out many more acres of his land. “Most of my hay is underwater.” He estimates

two to three feet of standing water which equates to a loss of 200 acres.

Altogether, he estimates his loss of crops to be in the range of $150,000 to $180,000; which does not include his hay. Hill said producers with cattle are in a dire situation because they either have to move them off pasture and feed them hay or have them eat another type of crop. Hill said that if the vegetation along the creek had been maintained a lot of the flooding would not have occurred.

Pat Dehid For the News Advertiser Uranus is about 19 times larger than earth (and 20 times more fun to say).

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News Advertiser

Gearing Up For Harvest With the Latest Technology Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Whether you’re a start-up farm or multi-generational family business, technology plays a critical role in farming operations today.

Right now producers are gearing up

August 26, 2020

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for harvest, and some of the products and services that are available to them are numerous and include: global positioning systems, geographic systems, rate, and sectional control systems, farm management software, yield and moisture sensors, mobile apps, along with custom maps and mounts for phones, tablets, and laptops.

The goal is to increase profitability out of every acre of land that is farmed, and to monitor the performance of equipment, determine what adjustments can be made to improve the job performance. Analyzing detailed information can maximize results and influence future decision making.

Proactive and preventative maintenance also has a huge role to play in terms of efficiency and is the most effective way to reduce operating costs to maximize uptime. Some strategies can be implemented to identify hazards, provide the necessary training, and utilize the right tools for the job.

Most companies offer mobile services and direct maintenance support to help save time and money for producers who are hoping the 2020 harvest season to be a productive one.

Make Safety Your Business

The UFA in the Town of Two Hills has shared this timely message as harvest season is expected to get underway in the next couple of weeks. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Alberta Agricult Harvest Safe

Alberta Agriculture Submitted Plan for an injury and incident-free harvest season. Develop a safety plan for the fall and include: o Team communications o Any training/operator refresher courses etc. o Maintenance schedules o Emergency procedures in place and reviewed by entire team o Expectations such as wearing personal protective equipment, checking in regularly and compliance with safety protocol procedures (such as shutting down equipment before unplugging, taking regular breaks, working with a buddy on specific tasks) o COVID-19 considerations for physical distancing, hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

Most harvest injuries and fatalities involve machinery and equipment. o Be extra vigilant when re-familiarizing yourself with equipment such as swathers, mowers, combines and augers.

Never become complacent ment. o Ensure implements are hitched properly and in go order o Review operation manu low maintenance guidelines o Ensure all guards and sh place and secure o Watch for changes in ter holes, ruts or debris that upsets or rollovers Harvest season is busy stressful. Pay close attention drowsiness and illness. Do

August 26, 2020

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griculture Offers t Safety Tips

me complacent with equip-

mplements are attached or perly and in good working

operation manuals and folance guidelines. ll guards and shields are in cure r changes in terrain such as or debris that may cause lovers eason is busy and can be y close attention to fatigue, nd illness. Do not rely on

stimulants to keep workers going or depressants to calm nerves. Never operate equipment while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Ensure safe transport of equipment on public roadways. o Be aware of motorists o Follow all rules of the road o Ensure all lights and reflectors are in place and good working order. A slow-moving vehicle emblem should be in place and visible from the rear. o Return equipment to transport mode. This makes it as narrow as possible o Check your route before transport to ensure equipment fits safely under power lines and over bridges or culverts that need to be crossed. o Download Safe Transportation of Farm Equipment in Alberta for more information Keep children safe this harvest season. Do not allow children around machinery. Tragedies occur when youngsters are in the path of equipment and operators have a restricted view, or when they are playing in a worksite with hazards such as grain augers.

News Advertiser PAGE 11

Producers Urged to Remove Headers Before Transporting Equipment Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Safety is top of mind as the count down to harvest is on.

Darwin Ullery, Director of Agricultural and Utility Services for the County of Minburn, is urging producers to remove headers before moving equipment onto the fields.

Ullery says the size of the headers, usually between 35 and 40 feet long, is double the width of county roads, and that can present challenges to motorists as they have to find an approach or alternate road if they are at an intersection to pull over.

Of course, the danger and risks increase after it turns dark.

He suggests at the very least to have a pilot car to proceed to the next intersection to warn motorists and help control traffic.

Even though the county does not have a bylaw in place prohibiting the transportation of headers on equipment, he

Hay Fires News Advertiser Ensure hay is within the proper moisture content ranges based on type of hay and baling method. Bales should be periodically probed to test for above normal temperatures.

Temperatures up to 140°F degrees are acceptable, however

once temperatures exceed 150°F degrees further steps should be taken to provide better air circulation. Once temperatures exceed 175°F degrees, a fire is imminent or already present near the probe. Call 911 and have the fire department on hand BEFORE moving hay bales.

Temperatures in excess of 200°F indicate a fire is present at or near the probe. NEVER walk on top of hot bales, cavities may have developed inside of the bales from the fire creating a potentially fatal collapse situation.

recommends the removal of them for transportation even if it takes an extra 15-20 minutes to remove them, and even if it is only for a short distance of two to three miles.

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Raymond Serna Speaks on Farm Safety Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Raymond Serna used to farm with his brother, George on a farm near Two Hills. He retired from farming 10 years ago. They farmed 1800 acres of land and they owned 180 cows and six bulls.

As far as safety procedures farmers should follow, Raymond said the most important thing is awareness for farmers.

“People who work on the farm need to be aware of potential accidents and be cautious with whatever type of work they do, they must make sure they are safe. For example, swathing, they must be aware that their swather has belts and chains on it, so you have to make sure when you are operating the machine; not to put your hands in the moving parts. But the modern farm equipment is a little bit more sophisticated and has a lot more built-in hydraulic-driven components and so there is less of a chance of people getting hurt with belts and chains than in the old days.” Raymond explained.

“Farm safety today is a matter of operator fatigue. Now, with this modern Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment, at times it is quite tedious to sit on the machine for a long time.

“Some safety tips for combining would

ed with. If you have to handle the seeds, you should wear a mask when you are seeding. Then if you are spraying chemicals, you should wear four-way coveralls and try not to get into contact with any of the chemicals’

pen on the farm, however, it is common sense and knowledge that will help to prevent a lot of accidents.

Despite all the challenges involved, Raymond said he enjoyed farming.

odour or vapor. That is a definite one for seeding.

“With haying, do not put your hand or limp into moving parts or dangerous places where it could get caught.

Then with the baler, don’t run the baler when you are off the tractor because a baler has a part that if it grabs you, you are finished.”

When I asked Raymond how he feels farmers should deal with their mental health with the COVID-19 pandemic happening and all the other challenges that are related to farming, he said, “Basically, just relax and take things as they come. You can surpass COVID-19 a bit by cooperating but otherwise, we have to accept it, it is presently a way of life. We just have to be careful not to get infected.”

He went on to say that accidents hap-

“There were times that were rough but there were a lot of good times. I like farming because it is very seasonal and it doesn’t get monotonous. You finish one season; you are looking forward to the next season. That is what motivates farmers. I think farming is a great occupation and a great lifestyle. We were always looking forward to expending our farm. However, the economical situation of farming is not very good as everything we buy depreciates. We have no control over the products that we sell. We cannot set a price on what we produce and we cannot set a price on what we buy. So, basically, we are selling at raw material price and we are buying at full retail price. So, there is a big gap in between to try to make money in a financial situation like that.”

Raymond Serna points to the blades of his swather, and pointed out the dangers of equipment, as harvest season approaches in the region.

be to never get off the machine when it is running; shut the machine off and then get off the machine. Also, make sure you are not wearing any loose clothing; always wear tight clothing and make sure none of your clothing is loose or hanging. Another important tip is not to work too many hours because then a person gets tired and a lot of accidents happen when people are tired. Limit yourself to working during the day if possible.

“Whether it is seeding, haymaking, or combining, it is all weather-related. We have to cram work into each season so we can finish doing it and get into the next season. But it is still wise to try to limit the hours you work.

“Some safety tips for seeding are when you are seeding is watch not to inhale the chemicals the seed is treat-

COUNTY OF MINBURN D ISCOVER

THE

Friendly communities, beautiful scenery & miles of peaceful county roads

4909 - 50 Street, Vegreville, AB

T9C 1R6 | 780-632-2082

August 26, 2020

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lamont county - CONTINUED from PAGE 8 by a consultant and different problems have been identified. Many are plugged with debris or require a larger size culvert.

Lamont County CAO Stephen Hill said, “Lamont County has experienced severe flooding during the spring melt of 2020 as this moisture volume was on top of the frozen fall moisture levels of 2019. A disaster recovery application has been made for infrastructure repairs in the amount of $995,000. In addition to this, the extensive rainfall has added to the flooding conditions and additional works that continue to date. A second disaster recovery application has been submitted in the amount of $2,000,000.

Lamont County has supplemented our workforce with the use of contractor services to aid in the drainage and road repairs. In addition to the funds spent on spring flood repairs the County Council

has approved $900,000 in capital funding towards ensuring that we have functional roads for the planned School Bus Routing requirements of Elk Island School District and for fall harvesting.

Lamont County completed an extensive site review with representatives from Alberta Environment & Parks, (AEP) to emphasis the extensive and complex problems of providing appropriate drainage and road rehabilitation, AEP will provide the County assistance with expedited reviews of applications required under the Water Act to aid in the various works.

It was brought to our attention though that some of the roads still flooded may have to be left as are, these roads do cross through natural water bodies and are not easily going to be drained. AEP has provided some ideas for partial lowering of water levels to exposed the

Pioneers in the Park - CONTINUED from front page ties are pre-portioned. So, there are little paper bags that the children can take home with them. These bags have crafts in the bags; there is the Morse code, a yarn doll craft, and an activity with the Ukrainian alphabet.

There were several socially distance sessions of Ukrainian dancing lessons where Roxy Iszcenko, one of our Interpreters for Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is the instructor,” Addley explained.

Addley said the society wants children to be able to connect with the pioneers’ heritage of East Central Alberta. “The

Ukrainian Village represents a very specific location and time. We are hoping the children learn a bit about what it was like to be a Ukrainian kid in East Central Alberta in the past.”

The Pioneers in the Park program was held adjacent to the Pysanka Park Market. The Friends of Ukrainian Village Society worked with the Pysanka Park Market and Explore Vegreville to make this event possible.

The Pioneers in the Park program was also presented at Lamont on August 21.

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road structure or to allow for road reconstruction to raise the road surface if it can be accomplished within the road right of way. There will be roads that simply will not be able to be opened this year as the extent of work required is not feasible to complete.”

Lamont County’s 2018 Flood Disaster Recovery Application ($1.2M) was prepared in September/October, reviewed, and forwarded to Province. On February 4, 2020, the County received $34,000 which is 50% of the Emergency Operations Cost Project. The Province stated they are still reviewing the submission.”

News Advertiser PAGE 13

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Rent start from $645 to $825, DD Same. Rent incl. Water, heat and Energized pkg stall. Call 780-9186328 or 780-632-6878.

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

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

Custom Bin Moving 14’–19’ Hoppers/Bins. New and used bins for sale. Wayne (cell) 780-632-0455

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Spacious 2 bdrm apartment to share. Just $475/mo. No DD. Everything included. Central and close to all amenities. Ultra clean.

Balcony. Non-smoker only. Don 780-631-0384 Cute upstairs loft suite in house for rent in central Vegreville. Approx.

650 sq. ft. $725/mo. Utilities included except internet/cable. Suitable for one mature tenant. NS NP 780699-3143

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 780922-5999 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

AUTO PARTS 4 used tires (P205-55-R16) on black slotted rims & 2 factory mags all for Chrysler P.T. Cruiser. All for $250 780-367-2763

GREAT LOCATION, READY TO GO! Health forces sale of Northeast Oregon 2-acre commercial property on corner lot. 40+ years RV sales & service business. Property includes 3-bay shop, sales office with 4 offices, retail parts store, 28x66 home in fenced-off area on lot. Super opportunity! $750,000.

Ask for Tim, call 1-800-338-6562 (business), or 541-231-3839 (cell).

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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 888-6861704

EQUIPMENT AIRLINES ARE HIRING Ezee-on 38’ heavy Duty disc for sale in excellent shape.24” blades 780632-9353

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

AlbertaFeedGrain.com 1-888-4838789 Hay for Sale Ph:780-603-7911

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

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HELP WANTED Visit us at jobs.newsadvertiser.com

Looking for non-smoking person to work with young adult, autistic, male. Applicant needs high school diploma and appropriate education/ experience. Driver’s license and vehicle access required. Weekdays only. Must have CPR/First Aid and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention training or be willing to take courses (paid). Text 306-914-3935 autisticaidejob@gmail.com

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.

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 Executive style 4 bedroom 4 bathroom 2 story home. Finished basement. 4114-48A Street. $1750/mo. + utilities. Call Gary 780-632-9454

Tired of renting? Cute little house in Willingdon, Alberta. Be mortgage free in six to eight years . For sale or lease to own. $65,000. 2 bdrm, 1 bath. Approx. 750 sq. ft. Older home with some upgrades. 85km to Fort Saskatchewan. 35km to Vegreville. 780-699-3143 In Vegreville Nice 2 Bdrm House on Quiet Street. $1,100/mo. + Utilities.

Must Qualify. 780-278-4499

LAND FOR SALE

MACHINERY For Sale: Two 542 cockshutt combines. One new grain scoop and square bale 10 bale stooker. 780632-1602 For Sale: 2005 Massey Ferguson 9220 swather 25’ - 5200 header with Honeybee knife pick up reels $30,000. 780-632-1696 For Sale - International 715 combine, shedded. Call 780-764-2319.

No text messages.

1938 Model D John Deere on steel; New Holland 688 Baler, like new; 7 x 27” auger. PH; 780-363-2308

Attention cattlemen: 69 acres for sale + 160 acres pasture. Call Brian 780-446-8728

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Topsoil for sale. $10/yard 2 yard minimum. You haul. 780-446-8728

LOTS SANDY LAKE TWO HILLS COUNTY. LAKEFRONT 75’x250’ LARGE DOUBLE GARAGE 24’x24’ METAL ROOF. LARGE STORAGE SHED 14’x12’ WITH DECK, KITCHEN, FRIDGE, MICROWAVE. EXTRA 2 SHEDS. 34’ MOTORHOME SOUTHWIND’89. LARGE COVERED DECK WITH METAL ROOF. PATIO FURNITURE & BBQ. BRICK OUTDOOR BAKING OVEN (PEECH).

FIREWOOD. 2 FIRE PITS. POWER WITH YARD LIGHTS. OUTDOOR BATHROOM. GRAVEL DRIVEWAY. FENCED & GATED. COMES WITH DRIVING LAWNMOWER TRACTOR, TOOLS & KITCHEN SUPPLIES. LOTS OF ROOM TO RIDE QUADS, PLAY VOLLEYBALL & STRESS RELIEF. VERY WELL KEPT. GOOD NEIGHBOURS. PICTURES CAN BE SEEN ON KIJIJI. $75,500 EXCEPT LATE MODEL CAMPERIZED VAN ON TRADE. CALL 780-446-4190

Moving Sale. Down Sizing. Ph: 1-780-632-0269 BOOT STRAPS & BRA STRAPS Book On Amazon & Audible. Need to start over this year? FREE REBOOT GIFTS: www.SheilaMac.com New authors wanted! Page Publishing will help self-publish your book. free author submission kit! Limited offer! 866-951-7214 !! OLD GUITARS WANTED!! GIBSON, FENDER, MARTIN, Etc. 1930’s to 1980’s. TOP DOLLAR PAID. CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-433-8277

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TRUCKS

1993 Chev 4x4 Ext Cab. For parts. $650. 780-922-5999 2006 Ford 4x4 Crew Cab. New tires. $4600. 780-994-3005

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.

780-922-5999 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: 780-994-3005

UPCOMING Canada Day Celebration to be held on September 7, 2020. Time: 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm at the Willingdon Tourist Park. Celebration includes *Canada Day Program *Free Light Lunch *Door Prizes. Sponsored by: Willingdon Senior Citizens Association, County of Two Hills #21. Funded by the Government of Canada. Please maintain Social Distancing. Everyone Welcome!

WANTED PERSONAL Female 70+ 5’4” 240lbs seeking gentleman with similar interests.

Likes animals, outdoors, cards. Box 693 Vegreville, AB T9C 1R7

SERVICES Scott’s Septic Tank Pumping. Phone 780-298-5480. 20 years septic tank cleaning experience. Visual inspection before and after cleaning. 200 feet of hose to stay off your grass.

Scott phone: 780-298-5480

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Andrew Community Speaks with Loud Voice Andrew School Committee Submitted When the Andrew School Committee launched its community survey, they really weren’t sure what to expect.

Needing to receive at least 50 responses was unofficially talked about as a watermark, anything less and it would be a sign that perhaps no further effort was worth taking.

The survey which ran from July 26 to August 10 was available as a Survey Monkey link on their Facebook page and produced a total of 122 responses.

The survey was also available in hard copy with 22 returns as of August 10.

Committee Chair Jodie Calfat expressed both relief and excitement in seeing the results, “We do have a pulse in the community. The numbers along with actual comments are very telling so it really helps inform our work.”

A total of ten questions comprised the survey with the opportunity to respond on a six-point scale from Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree. Respondents

also had the opportunity to provide written comments. A high-level summary of the survey results are provided here, the full results can be found at the Andrew School Committee Facebook page.

On the question of: It matters to me/ my family whether Andrew continues to have a public school, 82 percent Strongly Agreed with an additional 9 percent choosing Agree.

91 percent of respondents either Somewhat Agreed, Agreed, or Strongly Agreed they had a satisfactory level of information to form valid opinions.

The next two questions centered on whether Andrew School CAN and SHOULD be saved. Overwhelmingly, the responses were Strongly Agree and Agree.

When asked about satisfaction for alternatives in the event the school is permanently closed, 45 percent responded with Strongly Disagree with another 30 percent making up Somewhat Disagree and Disagree.

When asked about their willingness to help these efforts in saving the school, 85

Summertime Fun at Mundare Spray Park

percent of respondents either Somewhat Agreed, Agreed, or Strongly Agreed.

The next question asked respondents to choose their top three from a range of obstacles impeding the school’s success. Not surprisingly, Village Decline was the number one concern with 69 percent of respondents followed by Program Offering at 48 percent.

Demographically, respondents were overwhelmingly rural county residents with 55 percent representation followed by 34 percent representing the Village itself.

Due to the timing of mailouts, surveys will continue to be accepted in

hard copy form at the Village Office until August 30. The Survey Monkey link on Facebook will also remain active until August 30. “We feel we have enough information to move forward now”, said Calfat, “however we want to ensure everyone who has something to add has the opportunity and more feedback can only help us”.

The Committee met again on August 10 and was pleased to have fourteen attendees with several new faces on hand. Preliminary actions were discussed, most notably a promotional campaign on the merits of Andrew’s Elementary School program.

Saturday, August 29 from 10am - 4pm at the Kal Tire parking lot in Vegreville.

BOTTLE DRIVE! Drop off your bottles or text 780-632-0211 on that day for curbside pick up.

VEGREVILLE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 774 Vegreville, AB T9C 1R9 www.facebook.com/vegreviIIefootbaIIassociation

Arabella Smilar, 6, of Vegreville was thoroughly enjoying herself at the Mundare Spray Park on July 27. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

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Tributes MEMORIAM

MELENKA, Lynnale July 11, 1995 – August 25, 2004 In loving memory of our Dear Lynnale who passed away sixteen years ago today.

Sad was the parting, no one can tell So sudden on Earth the sorrow fell The blow was hard, the shock severe.

To part with one we loved so dear.

The things we feel so deeply Are the hardest things to say We your family love you We miss you so much A smile so bright That lit up our hearts A hug so tight Nestled close to our hearts!

Loving thoughts shall ever wonder To the spot where Lynnale is laid, Of grief leaves us longing To hold you once again And wish that you were here It broke our hearts to lose you.

Loved always and very sadly missed!

Memory eternal!

Baba Melenka

MEMORIAM

IN HONOR & MEMORY OF IRIS PALICHUK 5 YEARS HAVE PASSED SINCE I SAW YOU LAST AUGUST 01, 1940 – AUGUST 31, 2015 MY MOTHER & FRIEND It has been five years since you went to Heaven My Mother It has been five years since I looked into your beautiful loving eyes It has been five years since I touched your kind and gentle face And heard your comforting & always forgiving voice You have always been my Guardian Angel protecting me from harm There is a deafening silence when I search for you now))) My mind talks to you all the time My Mother My heart searches for you & aches My Mother You are my first thought when I wake My Mother And my last thought when I close my eyes at night.

You are always in my heart; I carry you close to me always You are always in my mind; you never leave me My Mother I know you are now at PEACE with Jesus, your Mom, Baba & Gido & Michelle And all the ones who went before you and loved you dearly But I miss you so much here on this earth My Mother & Friend I look forward to seeing you one day soon in Heaven Where you are dancing & singing with your Angels now In your Beautiful, Colorful Fields of Flowers & Crossing that Beautiful Wooden Bridge you had dreams of & joyfully told me about so often.

You now have that incredible PEACE you dreamt of & desired so desperately here on this earth.

You will be with me Forever & Always, My Loving Mother & Friend Your Loving Daughter Arlene, Kurt, Jared, Joshua, Kash & Stein

MEMORIAM

AUSTIN, Rita In loving memory of Rita Austin September 18, 1943 – August 31, 2016 If we could visit Heaven Even for a day, Maybe for a moment, The pain would go away.

I’d put my arms around you And whisper words so true, That living life without you, Is the hardest thing to do.

No matter how we spend our days, No matter what we do, No morning dawns or evening falls When we don’t think of you.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by Howard, Elan, Carmen & Families

HUGHES, Gordon Oliver December 11, 1935 – August 22, 2020 It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gordon Oliver Hughes announce his passing on August 22, 2020 at the age of 84 years.

Gordon will be sadly missed by his wife, Laura; daughter, Karen (Brent); son, Todd (Erin); and grandchildren, Nathan, Nolan, Nicole and Connor; as well as his nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Predeceased by parents; Oliver and Marjorie; sisters, Betty and Frances; and brothers, Donald and Winston.

Special thanks to all of the hospital staff who had a caring heart.

Graveside Service Thursday, August 27 at 2:00 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery, Vegreville. Social distancing measures will be in effect. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Photos, memories, and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com.

Park Memorial Edmonton 780-426-0050 Family Owned Funeral Home Crematorium, Reception Centre

ANDREYCHUK, Helen September 24, 1931 – August 23, 2020 On Sunday, August 23, 2020, Helen Andreychuk of Andrew, Alberta passed away at the age of 88 years.

Helen is survived her loving family, one daughter and three sons, Iris (Alvin) Hewko, David (Traci), Robert (Tammy) and Larry (Charlene); seven grandchildren, Landen, Justin, Andrian, Kelsey, Matthew, Meaghan and Chad; one brother Eugene (Gail) Matichuk; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Helen was predeceased by her husband Stanley; parents Onufrey and Anastasia Matichuk; one sister Mary (Harry) Drebit; one brother John (Jeanne) Matichuk.

A Public Viewing will be held on Thursday, August 27, 2020 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, Alberta. Due to covid-19 restrictions, a Private Funeral Service will be held at the Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Andrew, Alberta with Reverend Father Benny Ambrosie and Rt. Rev. Protoprebyter Victor Lakusta officiating. Interment to follow in the Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the “Sts. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church” or to the “Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta.”

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

OBITUARY

FURMANEK, Colin John April 29, 1969 – August 20, 2020 On Thursday, August 20, 2020, Colin John Furmanek of Mundare, Alberta passed away at the age of 51 years.

Colin is survived by his loving family, one daughter Kalista (Kenny) and one son Kory; sister Colleen; niece Dawn and nephew Joseph. Colin was predeceased by his parents Julian and Victoria Furmanek along with one brother Clifford.

Cremation has taken place.

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

OBITUARY In Loving Memory GRABAS, George April 9, 1925 - August 28, 2015 In loving memory of George Grabas who passed away August 28, 2015 Five years since you have left us It seems like only yesterday It broke our hearts to lose you And our lives have not been the same You left us so many memories To us you were so dear No matter when we needed you We always found you near We miss your voice and smile We miss the love you gave We think of you so often And we miss you everyday Deeply missed by your family

OBITUARY

ESAK, Floyd February 27, 1929 – August 23, 2020 On Sunday, August 23, 2020, Floyd Esak of Willingdon, Alberta passed away at the age of 91 years.

Floyd is survived by his loving family, children and grandchildren, Ervin (Cindy) along with their family Jaclyn and Steven (Colleen) and children Rosalie and Hayden: Lois Boxall (Peter Boxall) along with their sons Curtis and Gareth (Kennedy): Karen (Mark) Wright along with their sons Ryan and Gavin: and Leroy (Adriana) along with their children Adam and Emma; two sisters Doris Megley and Jean Chequis; and sisterin-law Kay Esak; along with numerous relatives and friends. Floyd was predeceased by his wife Evelyn; parents Peter and Annie Esak; sisters Mary, Dora, Lena, Helen and Katie; brothers Nick, Kost and Mike.

A Public Viewing will be held on Friday, August 28, 2020 from 6-8 p.m. at Autumn Rose Funeral Home in Vegreville, Alberta. Due to covid-19 restrictions, a Private Funeral Service will be held at Autumn Rose Funeral Home with The Rev. Fr. Michael Maranchuk officiating followed by the interment in Riverside Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

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

GIZOWSKI, Elizabeth (Betty) On August 23, 2020 Elizabeth (Betty) Gizowski of Innisfree passed away at the age of 77 years. Elizabeth is survived by her children: Terry, Bobby, Garry, and Jennifer; six grandchildren, Brandon, Kirstie, Cameron, Cara, Tamika, and Isabella; two great-grandchildren, Ellie, and Knox; sisters, Olga (Paul) Scherba, Kathleen Nedbaluk and Margaret Kavich. Predeceased by her husband, Peter; parents, Julia and Peter Sorochan; great-granddaughter, Lexus; brothers, Bill, Steve, John, and Nick; and sisters, Jean and Mary.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private service will be held. In memory of Elizabeth, donations may be made to Vegreville Long Term Care Centre-Recreation Department or charity of one’s choice.

Photos, memories and condolences may be shared through www.parkmemorial.com PARK MEMORIAL LTD. VEGREVILLE 780-632-2000 FAMILY OWNED FUNERAL HOME and CREMATORIUM

August 26, 2020

News Advertiser PAGE 17

www.NewsAdvertiser.com

Vegreville Parent Attends Project Safe September Rally Michelle Pinon News Advertiser Vegreville parent Dane Woychuk joined other parents, teachers, and community members to express their concerns about Alberta’s back to school plan at a rally that took place in front of MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk’s Fort Saskatchewan satellite office on Aug. 21.

Woychuk said Project Safe September is part of a province-wide action focused on having the Provincial Government reconsider re-opening schools in September.

He said the Kenney government’s back-toschool re-entry plan could be greatly improved and has several concerns about the plan as his child will be starting Grade 7 at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Vegreville on Sept. 1.

Ideally, he would like the start of school to be pushed back. “If only to give teachers enough time to adequately have their classrooms prepared and all the necessary tools are in place…

And while it may not be an issue in some of the rural schools, I know it’s going to be near impossible for there to be safe social distancing enforced in classes with 30 or more kids.

I know with my child’s own school they are doing a staggered re-entry from September 1st to 4th and then going back to “business as usual” September 8th. I honestly don’t think that will be enough time, even with teachers now going in making sure their classrooms and projected enrolment can safely be obtained.

My main concerns are the class sizes not being capped. In order for there to be safe social distancing for students and teachers, I fully agree with capping class sizes to a maximum of 15 students.

I am also concerned with the lack of support staff being available in schools…As well as having the teachers rely on their own cleaning of rooms is in my opinion not a good idea…

Hiring additional teachers, EAs, custodians,

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Vegreville Parent - CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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August 26, 2020

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Local Families Participate in Pioneers in the Park’s Activities

Robin Derow with her five children. (Rosanne Fortier/photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent Robin Derow and her five children came from Mundare to Vegreville to participate in the Pioneers in the Park program on August 20. While there, they also explored the Pysanka

Park Market.

Perez’s family from Vegreville was also eager to learn Ukrainian dancing and get a taste of life before the 1930s in East Central Alberta through crafts and activities from that era.

August 26, 2020

News Advertiser PAGE 19

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Salute to Front Line Workers Joe Baxandall

Joe Baxandall, Owner of Kal Tire. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

VCHS Grad 2020 Composite Photo Completed

This is a copy of the Class of 2020 photo that was digitally compiled. (Vegreville Composite High School/Submitted)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser VCHS Assistant Principal Holly Warawa was proud to announce the completion of the Grad 2020 Composite

on Aug. 20.

Warawa explained the photo was digitally compiled. “This is a yearly tradition and we were glad that we could still

attempt to produce this milestone.”

She explained, “Each Graduate had their picture taken in a specific spot during their individual graduation cer-

emony in June. Then a staff member compiled all of the pictures to create a class composite that will be displayed on the wall.

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August 26, 2020

Vegreville Parent - CONTINUED from PAGE 17 the spread of germs.”

MLA Armstrong-Homeniuk said she was unable to attend the protest due to prior commitments, but said, she believes deeply in the right of freedom of speech. “Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our staff and students has guided all decision-making around school re-entry since we first cancelled in-person classes in March.”

She went on to say, “We understand that Albertans want what is best for their children as they return to school this fall, and that is why we continue to follow the expert medical advice of our Chief Medical Officer of Health, who approved our school re-entry plan.

The plan also has support from our school superintendents and school boards and was developed in consultation with them. The Education Minister will continue to work with Dr. Hinshaw and our stakeholders, and school boards

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Dane Woychuk, (far back on the lefthand side), attended the Project Safe September Rally on Aug. 21.

(Jennifer Fredeen/photo submitted)

will adjust their guidelines as they see necessary.

To achieve this cap, Alberta would have to hire 13,000 more teachers by September…Additionally, we simply do not have the facilities required to meet a cap of 15 students per class. Just like with the teachers, we would also require roughly 13,000 more classrooms across Alberta by September. Which is not attainable.”

As far as personal protective equipment, she said every K-12 student and staff member will be provided with two reusable cloth masks. “Alberta’s government will also distribute approximately 466,000 litres of hand sanitizer to all school authorities, provide every school with two contactless, grade thermometers, and will issue every staff member one reusable face shield. We

are confident that all of our PPE will arrive prior to the beginning of the school year.”

She recommends teachers work with their administration and local school boards to address any concerns they have with the duties they are being assigned. “That being said, full funding was restored to school authorities on July 1st following the temporary funding adjustments to supports Alberta’s COVID-19 response. If school authorities are not restoring services or hiring the staff they require, they are doing this despite receiving their full funding amounts and also receiving an increase in funding and have more flexibility where those funds are spent for the upcoming school year.

School boards have the ability to delay or stagger school start dates should they decide that is in their local best interest and needs, she added.

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