Vegreville News Advertiser - December 14, 2022

Christmas Candlelight Service of Remembrance

Fortier News Correspondent

Akasu Palliative Care Society partnered with Park Memorial Ltd. to present their annual interdenominational Christmas Candlelight Service of Remembrance on Dec. 4 at Vegreville Social Centre with roughly 75 people in attendance.

Akasu Palliative Care Society President Jenny Cooper said the service is meant to give people reflection, comfort and memories while honouring the losses and loved ones. “The last two years, we have celebrated virtually and we are so glad to get back to gathering in person where we can meet and greet others who are perhaps sharing the same feelings of loneliness and pain

at this season.”

There were music performances by Colleen Albert, St. John’s Lutheran Church Choir and Friends, Ashley Ziprick, and Companions on the Journey.

Rev. Darren Driedger Pastor from Vegreville Alliance Church, Jenny Cooper, and Barb Bienvenue recited readings and led the people in prayers.

The guest speaker was Rev. James Lavoy who is the Chaplain of St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Vegreville and St. Mary’s Immaculate Hospital in Mundare. “Over the century, we loaded the Christmas season with expectations, nostalgic expectations that feel flat when a certain Candlelight Service - CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Rosanne

St. John’s Lutheran Choir with Director Colleen Albert. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Police Warn Public of Emergency Scam

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Various police agencies are warning the public about a fraudulent scam circulating throughout the province. This year alone, Albertans have collectively lost more than $3.5 Million in the scams that are most commonly referred to as ‘Emergency’ scams or ‘Grandparent, Grandchild’ scams.

Alberta RCMP, along with their partners from the Edmonton Police Service and Calgary Police Service issued a news release to inform the public about these scams. It stated that, “In 2022 Alberta RCMP have received over 150 reports of this type of fraud with a total loss of around $750,000. Not only is there a concern for the amount of money being lost, but a great concern for these couriers showing up in person to collect the cash.

The two common themes of these scams are a sense of urgency: the payment must be made immediately or there will be worse consequences; and secrecy: no one can know because it is embarrassing or because the judge has placed a publication ban or “gag order” on the case.”

Vegreville RCMP Staff/Sgt Colin Folks said that since the beginning of this year the Vegreville detachment has investigated 49 incidents of Fraud. “These frauds are not all specific to this scam, but are similar in nature. We are seeing more and more fraud scams happening with the majority of victims being elderly or individuals involved in an “online relationship”.

I would like to remind the public that sending money online or money orders to anyone you do not know is extremely risky. The common scam we see is “Canada Border Patrol” calling advising that the call taker has an outstanding warrant, and often we are seeing scammers request gift cards as a method of payment. If anyone is sceptical of a situation they have found themselves in they are urged to contact their banking facility or the RCMP before engaging in any transfer of funds of gift cards.”

Alberta RCMP, and their partners at

CPS and EPS, want to remind Albertans:

• Bail is always paid in person at a courthouse or correctional center;

• Never send money to anyone you don’t know;

• If a person claims to be a police officer or judge, call that police service or court house directly to confirm the situation – police and courts will never demand cash be picked up in person or mailed; and

• Never give out personal information over the phone or online to someone you don’t know—the police or courts will not ask for personal information over the

IYes...

phone.

“We encourage you to talk to family, friends, or loved ones who may be vulnerable to these types of crimes, making sure they know what to watch for,” said Cpl. Sean Milne, Alberta RCMP Serious and Organized Crime Unit. “If they are contacted by a scammer, they shouldn’t feel embarrassed, they shouldn’t keep it secret, and they should reach out for help.”

Should you have fallen victim to this or any other scam, please call your local RCMP or police of jurisdiction and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Minburn County Fire Department Responds to

Pinon News Advertiser

Fire

from our Innisfree station and arrived on scene at 11:30 am.”

When

Crews left the scene at 12:46 pm. “Cause is under investigation at this time,” added Fundytus.

Michelle

Director of Protective Services for the County of Minburn said Fire crews were dispatched at 11:20 am

fire crews arrived on scene, the semi-tractor was completely engulfed in fire. “Crews extinguish the fire before it spread to the trailers,” noted Fundytus. Fortunately, the driver escaped without injury.

Adam’s No Frills

780-603-2600

Agriterra Equipment 780-632-2514

Canadian Tire 780-632-2601

County of Minburn 780-632-2082

Deerland Equipment 780-632-6006

Ernie’s Auto Body 780-632-3011

G&R Sand & Gravel Ltd. 780-632-1569

H.C.L Site Services 780-632-6853

Hi-Way Registries 780-632-7474

Jiffy Lube & Car Wash 780-632-6144

Kal Tire 780-632-6688

Lakeland Power Co-op 780-632-6112

Loves Custom Meats 780-632-2700

Ok Tire 780-632-2388

Park Memorial 780-632-2000

Perry’s Pizza 780-632-6300

Prime Cuts Meat & Deli 780-632-6149

Regent Health 780-632-2141

RJV Gas Field Services 780-632-7774

Rocky Mountain Equipment 780-632-6677

Synergy CPA’s 780-632-6788

The Brick Vegreville 780-632-6100

Tingley’s Harvest Center 780-632-3246

Tower Tack 780-632-1205

Twin Lakes Ready Mix & Aggregates 780-632-7787

Vantage Builders / Vantage Building Supplies 780-632-3422 / 780-632-2119

Vegreville Auto Body 780-632-2445

Vegreville & District Co-op 780-632-2884

Vegreville Dental Centre 780-632-3368

Vegreville Drug Mart 780-632-7660

Vegreville Family Dental 780-632-3912

Vegreville Home Hardware 780-632-3388

Vegreville Liquor Store 780-632-7732

Vegreville Mechanical 780-632-4140

Vegreville News Advertiser 780-632-2861

Vito’s Steak & Pizza and Sports Lounge 780-632-3999

VM Systems 780-632-2859

Webb’s Machinery 780-632-6772

Xtreme Power Products 780-632-7780

DON’T DRINK & DRIVE

Your health is important. Your friends and family are precious. Your reputation is valuable. Your freedom is priceless. Life is irreplacable. When you decide to drive impaired, you risk it all Respect yourself and others by committing to a sober ride home this Holiday Season!

Your health is important. are freedom drive Respect yourself and others

Generational Talent

Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion

Generational. Oxford defines generational as “relating to or characteristic of all the people born and living at about the same time, regarded collectively.” A few things come to mind when thinking about the word. Some people will remember a time when the youngest child was the TV remote, or when you had three or maybe five channels. Others may remember a time before the internet or cell phones. If you are younger still, think back to when Facebook was cool (to our young readers, I do know that word isn’t “fire”) or when there wasn’t TikTok or the moronic challenges that go with it.

For sports fans there is the thought of a generational talent like Wayne Gretzky, Pelé or Michael Jordan; and for others we may think of great thinkers such as Albert Einstein or Stephen Hawking. There are also great leaders that may come to mind. Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr or Abraham Lincoln could be such examples.

However, I’m thinking of something completely different. Goofs, flubs foul-ups, blunders, snafus and the sort. Now there are many shows dedicated to this idea on a smaller scale. We see sports bloopers and engineering screw ups of various magnitude. But what about something on a grand scale? Some blunders turn out to be scientific breakthroughs. Others… well, we just have to

shake our heads and ask, “What were they thinking?”

Case in point. The Canadian Federal Government’s stance on Energy. We don’t need to look back very far. In August of this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Canada. One of his stops was for an exclusive interview with the CBC where he stated “We would really like Canada to export more liquefied natural gas, (LNG) to Europe.” Unfortunately, with fall quickly approaching and the world watching the energy crisis unfold in Europe, Scholz got the cold shoulder from Canada. Canada offered to explore ways to see if there was a business case to export LNG to Europe directly from the east coast.

All one must do is look around. In the last 10 years, the US has become an LNG exporting powerhouse. As of July of 2022, they are ranked third behind Australia and Qatar and while the US and Qatar both have significantly higher estimated reserves, (ranked 3 and 4 in the world), Australia is 27th and Canada 18th. This speaks volumes about our country’s energy policies.

While Canada has one solid project in the works, (Kitimat, BC) and a possible follow-up project, there doesn’t seem to be anyone knocking our doors down. In contrast, the US has seven projects on the go for 2022 with another two announcing funding has been secured. The seven projects alone will add another 46 Million tonnes per year of LNG capacity. What does 46 Mt/y look like on the balance sheet? The math is complicated, but if I have my numbers right, based on a spot price of $7/MMBtu, one ton = $375. That means the NEW projects would net about $16 billion per year. Existing project clock in at about 74 MMT or $27.7 billion. UK gas prices soared in March hitting $67.18/ MMBtu which would change that number to $253B.

But what about the business case? The two latest projects are estimated at $45 billion to complete and provide construction jobs ranging upwards of 10,000 people with over 500 full time jobs to run the sites.

What happens when, like Canada, you stick your head in the sand looking for a business case? Well, quite simply the money goes elsewhere. On November 29, it was announced that Germany signed a 15-year deal to buy LNG from Qatar. Earlier in the year, the UK inked a deal for 25 years with Qatar and last week another deal with the US to double their current supply. A few weeks ago, China signed a 27-year deal with Qatar for LNG.

If only we could find a business case for LNG in Canada.

One estimate pegs the cumulative growth to the US economy from the addition of LNG plants from $716B to $1.267T between 2013 and 2050.

Lack of leadership and foresight from our government may go down in history as a blunder that many generations will be paying for. While doubling our national debt, we push potential investment and trading partners away. Without a doubt we have what could be described as a generational talent leading Canada. Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

There has been plenty of pipeline construction activity in the Lamont area throughout the summer and well into the fall.

Arnett & Burgess Pipelines Ltd. lay down yard is located southwest of the Village of Chipman adjacent to Secondary Highway 834. Personnel could be seen travelling on gravel roads to the various construction sites where the pipeline is being installed.

Several months ago, the Vegreville News Advertiser reached out to the company to obtain photos and information on the project and was initially told there would be follow up with the “appropriate individuals” regarding the inquiry by Brooke Goodwin, Corporate Development Manager, with Arnett & Burgess Pipeliners Ltd.

Goodwin followed up on the request, stating in an email, “I can confirm that Arnett & Burgess Pipeliners is not authorized to provide permission for photos of the pipeline crossing and construction zone to be taken, nor provide details on the project.

Lamont County Communications Coordinator Jay Zaal followed up on a

separate request for information, stating that the project falls under Wolf Midstream and that the pipeline would convey ethylene.

Zaal pointed out that, “A Development Permit is not required for pipeline installations, as they are approved/permitted through the Province of Alberta.” He said what Lamont County’s Public Works Department does is to issue both a Road Use Agreement and Pipeline Crossing Agreement to Wolf Midstream Pipelines for the use of County roads and the installation of the pipelines through the County’s Road Allowances.

He said there are benefits to having the pipeline in the County in terms of tax revenue and development. “Developments such as pipelines are good for Lamont County, as it brings in tax revenue and ultimately helps with service levels and services provided to the public.

Investment in Lamont County brings employment and opportunities locally and helps businesses within the region.”

VNA also reached out to Wolf Midstream for information. Christine Spear, with Wolf Midstream Communications stated, “We appreciate your interest in our project and want to provide you with the information you are looking for. We are currently in the pro-

cess of preparing a more fulsome release with most of the information you are looking for and some additional info. We are working through some legal steps first with our customers before we can release some information publicly.”

After several weeks, Spear was contacted again regarding the status of the request. She replied, “At this time, we are not in a position to comment or provide photos as we are not authorized to share details on this project.”

Even though there are road markers south of Highway 16 adjacent to Secondary Highway 834, which is located within Beaver County, that municipality had no available information on the project. Beaver County Development Officer Jessica Post pointed out that, “Per Sections

619(1) of the Municipal Government Act, “a licence, permit, approval or other authorization granted by the NRCB, ERCB, AER, AEUB or AUC prevails, in accordance with this section, over any statutory plan, land use bylaw, subdivision decision or development decision by a subdivision authority, development authority, subdivision and development appeal board, or the Land and Property Rights Tribunal or any other authorization under this Part.” and 619(2).”

Dan's s Quote e of f The e Week

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"I can only answer that I tried to tell the truth and, if not be objective, at least be fair; history is not served when reporters prize trepidation and propriety over the robust journalistic duty to tell the whole story.”

Randy Shilts

East facing view of construction near Village of Chipman. Inset: Directional sign on Highway 15 near the Village of Chipman. (Michelle Pinon/Photos)

90 Years Ago – December 14, 1932

Although the ice at the Ryley skating rink is not quite in readiness, the youngsters gave it a try-out on Saturday night. Ina matter of a few days, young and old will be taking there dozen on skates.

The Ideal Ladies’ Society, at their last meeting, passed a resolution setting forth their stand on Christmas giving. The text of the resolution reads: Resolved, that owing to the shortage of money and the general unfortunate conditions of the present, we refrain from accepting any Christmas presents, which are purchased at stores, from our friends and relatives. Presents received will be returned with thanks to the donor, unless such presents are home-made.

Sam Bender of the Capital Theatre, announces that no children will be allowed to attend the showings of “Kongo” unless accompanied by parents or guardian. The picture will play here next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and is of an extremely gruesome nature.

Gare St. Lazare, famous railway station in Paris, France, has become a miniature city. Passengers may now buy clothes, books and drinks, receive dental treatment, telephone to all parts of the world, have a shave or a hair wave, or see a movie.

75 Years Ago – December 17, 1947

The Chinese dollar dropped to a new low of 145,000 to one United States dollar. The government foreign exchange equalization committee, striving to keep within shouting distance of the black market, upped its open-market quotation from 64,500 to one to 73,000 to one. The government’s official exchange rate, virtually ignored now, remains at the almost forgotten low of 12,000 to one.

Canada has the highest standard of living in the world today, Labor Minister Humphrey Mitchell told a gathering of civic representatives at a dinner reception here. “this condition” he said, “didn’t fall as the gentle rain from heaven, but has been brought about by the courage and tenacity of the Canadian people.”

The 2,100 men who went from Saskatchewan with 412 combine units to help harvest the United States wheat crop this summer earned more than $3,000,000, President George Wright of the United Farmers of Canada, Saskatchewan section stated.

Australia contains about three million square miles, which is about one-third unsuitable desert. Another 42 per cent is suitable only for light grazing, but only one-third is suitable for crop production. The remaining 24 per cent has rainfall for crop production, but only eight per cent is suitable for cultivation.

50 Years Ago – December 14, 1972

St. Martin’s Girls Volleyball team, winners of the County of Minburn Junior High School tournament and the A. Lukenchuk trophy were: Lorie Sribney, Co-captain; Theresa Stefancik, Annett Stefancik, Captain; Sherry Grabas, Sheila Cartier, Grace Thostenson, Kathy Green, Margaret Slipp, Norine Mazankowski, Sharon Cartier, co-captain; Linda Grabas with coach Harold Mori.

The Honorable W.J. Yurko, Minister of the Environment, announced that 12 Alberta students had been named winners in the first Environment Week poster contest. Among the winners was local Grade 5 Student Mark Lukenchuk, age 10, at the Peter Svarich School.

Don Mazankowski, M.P. for Vegreville, announced that a grant, in the amount of $3,200, has been awarded to the Historical Village and Pioneer Museum at Shandro. This will allow the Museum further development. The recognition of this outstanding project, spearheaded by the determination of Mr. and Mrs. Wasyl Zazula, will enable all Canadians to share in the experiences of Pioneer living as it existed in this region of Canada when Central Europeans arrived during the turn of the century.

25 Years Ago – December 15, 1997

The group behind bringing a rodeo to Vegreville has set firm dates for the event and chosen a name for itself. At a meeting the Vegreville Rodeo Association formerly named itself and will put on an indoor rodeo at the Rec. Centre in May.

Bradley and Ann Waters are the new owners of Rainmaker Car Wash in Vegreville. The Waters say it will be business as usual and car wash collector cards will continue to be honored.

On Sunday, Warawa Smerek, of Smoky Lake, turned 111 and celebrated the occasion at the George McDougall Memorial Health Centre in the long term care unit.

Andrea Van Yken won the Jr. Citizen of the Year Award. The award was co-sponsored by Holiday Foto Source and the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce. Orest Hlus of Holiday Foto presenting the award. Michael Tomyn won the Sr. Citizen of the Year Award. The award was sponsored by Vegreville Ford Mercury and the Vegreville and District Chamber of Commerce. Brian Baron of Vegreville Ford presented the award.

Brian Henderson was chosen as 1997’s Citizen of the Year and the award was presented by the sponsor Wendy Hopper of General Watch and Clock.

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. A maximum of 150 words is preferred. The Vegreville News Advertiser reserves the right to withhold letters from publication.

One Suggestion for a Better, Safer Health Care System

Canada’s health care system was once a great source of national pride and a shining example to countries less fortunate, such as the United States. Now all most Canadians see is a series of deficiencies and problems.

The latest and best (and most expensive) procedures and medicines are often not provided. Even common over-thecounter medications, such as those for children, can become scarce, as recently happened when a virulent respiratory virus was spreading among the young.

A quarter of Canadians do not have a family doctor and often do not have access to any other doctor. All healthrelated institutions are short-staffed at all levels, from physicians on down.

Hospitals lack staff at all levels and beds. Some communities even lack hospitals. Emergency cases can no longer be treated as urgent. Waits in ‘emergency’ rooms can be 12 hours or longer if such a room is even available. Many ERs have closed or reduced hours because of a lack of personnel.

Those needing non-urgent surgery or treatment often wait months and years to have their condition treated and their pain relieved.

This growing disaster is not cheap. Our governments are spending over 12 percent of their total budgets – that is one dollar in eight of our taxes – to pay for it. Throwing more money at the system will not fix things unless other changes are made.

The powers that be are finally acknowledging the large numbers of foreign-trained doctors, nurses, and other health professionals we are under-employing in this country. They may even be beginning to find ways to put them to use.

One very serious shortage in our health-care system is rarely mentioned. That is information. What data we have is often incomplete, incompatible and/or inaccessible. This lack and its impact on the health-care system have been well described by Don Drummond.

One way to introduce timely, accessible information into the health-care system is through individual smart health-care cards, which can store and/or access a patient’s complete medical situation and history. It would be kept up

to date at each encounter with the health-care system. The benefits of such a card system are obvious. Patients would always have their complete medical information with them. This information would significantly reduce the possibility of sometimes fatal errors when it comes to allergies, medications, etc., making the health-care system intrinsically safer, especially in emergency situations.

Having complete patient information at hand would also save time. In an emergency, that could be life-saving. Physicians’ time would also be saved by being able to treat patients sooner and greatly reducing the record-keeping and paperwork that has been too big a part of medical practice. Doctors have mentioned the burden of the paperwork as one reason for choosing to retire.

Complete information medical cards would free more time for doctors and staff in doctors’ offices, hospitals and other institutions. It would also result in significant financial savings while freeing personnel to do what they were trained to do: providing better, faster, safer health care.

Why, then, are such cards not being put into use?

One often-mentioned excuse is that it would violate patients’ privacy. Right now, we carry cards that access every detail of our financial situation. Our phones may have every nuance of our social life. Frequent user cards hold every detail of our travel to our taste in coffee. To gain access to numerous apps etc., we tend to click the ‘I have read and agree to’ button giving away privacy conditions that we have not even looked at.

To say that Canadians would choose privacy over access to better, cheaper, faster, safer health care seems a bit of a stretch.

Many are rightly concerned about asking our governments to install large systems. The Access Canada system was extraordinarily costly and not obviously effective. The Phoenix federal pay system will long be remembered as a lesson in how not to handle changes.

Hopefully, much has been learned in the workable rollouts of vaccines and vaccine passports. Those lessons and the careful selection of qualified and capable suppliers would enable the effective introduction of the smart care cards we need.

Dr. Roslyn Kunin is president of the Vancouver Institute and has been chair of the Vancouver Stock Exchange, WorkSafe BC, and Haida Enterprise Corporation. She has also been on the boards of the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and the National Statistics Council.

Roslyn Kunin Vancouver Institute

FROM THE PAGES OF THE VEGREVILLE OBSERVER COMPILED BY DAN BEAUDETTE

- Richard Kluger

New Myrnam School’s Mr. T Making History and Transforming Lives

They enjoyed three months of produce last year and recently received a new batch lettuce that was delivered by Jessica’s daughter Caitlin, a Grade 9 student at New Myrnam School.

Rudolph said the school has two greenhouses that produce herbs, flowers, planters, and baskets for sale. There are planters of vegetables on school grounds and they are expanding horticulture programs. They are developing a computerized in school system that monitors all indoor/outdoor growing sites, including amount of rain water collected and stored solar energy.

siasm, his spark, his brilliance. He is a carpenter, artist, mechanic, scientist, dream-come-true-maker. But, most importantly, he is a TEACHER, a teacher who won Canada’s most prestigious teaching award, in competition against thousands across the country. He was presented the award by the Prime Minister in Ottawa.

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Mr. T, the American actor most notably known for his role in the 1980’s TV series the A team. The Hollywood celebrity with his distinctive hairstyle, copious amounts of jewelry and tough guy persona.

But there’s another Mr. T, most notably known for his role as outstanding teacher with infectious enthusiasm, boundless energy and passion for generating ground breaking, sustainable eco friendly projects for junior and senior high students at New Myrnam School.

He was one of two teachers in all of Canada to be awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, (STEM). He was among the country’s 17 top-ranked recipients who were presented with a certificate of excellence during the National Award Ceremony that took place at the Château Laurier in Ottawa on Oct. 3.

“It was very humbling to receive this award,” said Mr. Tymofichuk. One of the highlights for him during his time in Ottawa was participating in a two-day educational symposium with fellow recipients. “There was a good cross section of teachers from across Canada.” He also had the opportunity to share a 20-minute presentation with his peers about the people, passion and projects behind the Myrnam Career Training Education Centre, (CTEC).

CTEC is a very unique facility and offers Myrnam and area students the opportunity for creative learning in Eco Sciences and Green Building. It is the result of strong partnership with the

Village of Myrnam, St. Paul Education and County of Two Hills who have worked together to support CTEC since its initial inception to present day.

Donna Rudolph, Mayor of the Village of Myrnam, explained that, “Our little village of Myrnam was in similar circumstances as many, if not most, rural communities. Inflation, no major tax base, aging infrastructure, decreasing student enrolment. Sadly, often when a school closes, the community follows a downward spiral.”

At the time, acting CEO, Gary Dupuis, Mayor Ed Sosnowski, and councillors Raymond Yaremchuk and Donna Rudolf, with the support of the community, took a great leap of financial faith and constructed a state-of-the-art multi purpose “Mega shop,” called CTEC.

Originally the idea was to build small affordable homes and encourage apprenticeship programs in the trades. But times changed considerably, and it was collectively decided not to proceed with constructing houses as it was not viable.

But that did not mean things haven’t been happening since that decision was made. Rudolph said they have implemented hydroponic systems on solar energy, watered by a recycled filtration system that produces enough greens to supply three Eagle Hill Foundation seniors’ lodges, school lunches, the Twisted Fork in St Paul and CJ’s restaurant in Myrnam.

CJ’s is owned by Colleen MacKenzie and her daughter Jessica Clyke. Colleen’s husband Richard also helps out at the restaurant they have owned and operated for the past 16 years. Colleen said they use the lettuce in Caesar and Greek salads which are a big hit with customers.

Currently, students are repurposing an old school bus into a fully functional home on wheels as well as repurposing an exercise bike into a manually operated battery charger. Also, repurposing golf carts to be fully functional using solar energy. “The school has sold some and use others to zip around the school running errands.”

Rudolph said students have developed items using a 3-D printer. A homeschool based blended program of studies has been successfully initiated.

Students have been researching ways to reduce the power bill at CTEC by 20 percent and recently made a presentation to village council. They also looking at programming a robotic arm to remove snow from the solar panels on top of the facility.

Referring to the various partners involved with CTEC, Rudolph said, “We are beyond grateful for the direction in which these parties have taken CTEC, and are particularly proud of our “Man of the Year,” Robert Tymofichuk, who is the inspiration and driver of all these projects.

Mr. T is the epitome of a role model. He is the Pied Piper of students, staff, everyone! You cannot help catching his enthu-

He is the jewel in the crown of our school. Our school spirit and success stories have soared like the legendary Phoenix and Mr. T has given us wings. One of last year’s graduating students, Lucas Dubelt, for example, won a national scholarship, competing against thousands of students.”

Dubelt received the Loran Award in the - Mr. T Making HistoryCONTINUED ON PAGE 11

Advantage of Buying Local for the Holidays

TO ENJOY DELICIOUS FOOD

When it comes to making a great meal, nothing beats local foods. Keep it close to home by choosing breads, cheeses, wines, meats and vegetables produced in your region. Whether you're making an elaborate feast or preparing a simple dish, put fresh, local ingredients on the menu. Your holiday guests will thank you, and so will your tastebuds.

Hannah Saruk and Robert Tymofichuk. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Hands-On Health Care Skills Day Held in Ryley

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

A total of 29 high school students from Tofield School, Viking School and Holden Rural Academy took part in a hands-on health care skills day in Ryley on Nov. 30.

The event was sponsored and organized by the Rural Health Professions Action Plan, (RHPAP) and the Community Attraction and Retention Committee, (CARC) for Tofield, Ryley and Beaver County West.

Beaver County Reeve and CARC representative Kevin Smook said, “It’s great to see organizations like CARC and RHAPAP come together to host Skills

day for high school students interested in the healthcare field.

We hope to encourage students to pursue a career in healthcare and ideally some will work and settle in the Beaver County region. There is a shortage of healthcare workers in rural areas and throughout Alberta. The proof is in the recent announcement of reduced hours in the Emergency Department at the Tofield Health Centre for December along with challenges faced in Viking and other facilities in our region. A dependable healthcare system is a key to attracting people to come live and stay here.”

The event featured two local professionals who grew up in the area and returned to their rural roots to start their own practices.

Dr. Kate Overbo was born and raised outside of Kinsella.” I did my undergrad at the U of A and med school in Edmonton and I did one of my years in Bonnyville back doing the rural program.

I did the rural program and I really enjoyed it. I spent some time after Grade 11 and 12 and my second-year university basically a summer job at the hospital in Viking and that kind of gave me a better sense of what was out there and really just enjoyed the medicine side of it. So, did my residency in Red Deer and spent a few years travel-

ling around rural Alberta and decided to come back to Viking and I’ve been there for two years. Things are going well, but we’re always looking for all sorts of health professionals.

Dr. Marc Kallal was born and raised in Tofield and graduated in 2004. He earned a science degree from the U of A before attending optometry school in Anaheim, California. “I did four years of optometry school and started working in Ponoka. Worked there four years and always wanted to come back to the area. So, in 2017 I opened Tofield Eye Care.

In talking to you guys about working in rural Alberta it’s a lot of fun. There’s more diverse patients and diverse experience. Get lot more rewards helping them because a lot of times they don’t always have access to care that they would get living in the city. If you’re considering, rural is a great place to be and work and live.”

CARC Chair Cyndy Heslin said it’s the first time they’ve organized a high school skills day but they did host a skills weekend for post graduate nursing students in 2019. It resulted in one student deciding to reside in Beaver County and three other students deciding to live in other rural communities in Alberta.

Both Heslin and CARC Vice-Chair Brenda Chehade say opportunities like this are very valuable and can open the eyes of students and plant the seed for a possible career in health care. “We couldn’t have done it without the instructors who are all volunteers,” stated Heslin. She said the event wouldn’t have been possible either without RHPAP and local support from local

businesses.

Students Zane Gunderson, Amelia Cameron and Chandra Laskoski said they decided to participate in the skills day because they wanted to try something new. Viking Grade 11 student Cindel Moody said she wanted to attend the skills day because her friends were going and she thought it would be pretty interesting. Even though there were a variety of professions at the Skills day, Moody said, they are all connected because they all help people. Tofield Grade 10 student Jasmyne Hryniw is interested in the health care field and said it was good to know what options are available and gained some valuable insights and information during the event.

Substitute teacher Ken Warawa said that skills days such as this and career fairs give students valuable exposure to various professions as well as the opportunity to learn practical skills.

Students get ready for instruction in suturing from Dr. Kate Overbo. (CARC/Submitted Photo)

Students practice lifting a stretcher board. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Elvis

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Around 90 people attended the Famous Elvis Presley’s Tribute Christmas Show on Dec. 9 at Vegreville Legion Hall. This event was complete with cocktails and a meal. Some of St. Mary’s Catholic High School’s students and a few of their mothers helped to serve the dinner which Diane Fausak said they were amazing. When asked about himself, Matt Dowsett said his stage name is Matt Cage. “I am originally from Toronto and currently reside in Belleville, Ontario.

I started performing back in 2010 when I entered the Collingwood, (Ontario) Elvis Festival. At the time, it was the world’s largest Elvis Festival and after attending as a fan in 2009, I knew I had to give it a try! The ball just started rolling from there.

I have always been drawn to Elvis since I was a kid. In a word, he was pure charisma. I love trying to bring just a little piece of what he was to his fans that still

Vegreville United Church Annual Christmas Tea and Bake Sale

News Correspondent

More than 55 people attended the Vegreville United Church Annual Christmas Tea and Bake Sale on Dec. 3.

Holly Cependa coordinated the event along with several volunteers. “We raised over $1,000 that will go into the church’s general funds.

The annual Christmas Tea & Bake sale has been going for many decades. During the Covid times, we continued to host but as take out or delivery. This year we were back to an in person event and we’re extremely pleased with the turn out. It takes many hands to make an event successful; from the dedicated volunteers, to the donors and to the attendees. A truly blessed time was had by all!”

Christmas Show

remember him to this day.

My advice to anyone trying to do a tribute like this is to learn as much about music as you can. Learn to play an instrument and always indulge in other musical pursuits. It makes one a more well-rounded performer and music is just fun!”

Ernie & Pat Motiuk; Cathy Rakchaev; Debbie Lesoway, In Loving Memory of: Mike J Lesoway, Nick Lesoway, Peter Lesoway, Tony Lesoway, John & Anne Lesoway, Pearl & Nick Cebeniak, Virginia Wolinski, Angela Bogdanski, Bill & Gladys Lozowy, Mike Lisoway; M & E Baxandall Family; Ron & Marge Horon, Scott, Trina, Avery & Ardynn Horon, Tarrah, Keith, Keirnen, Colten & Conner Lakusta, Annie Warawa; Ron & Dianne Humeniuk; John Kubin; Zacharuk Family in Memory of William & Kenney, Gerry & Debbie Rokus; Curtis and Kim Duk; Dave & Millie Giebelhaus; Cassie, Helen, Patsy & Sally, In loving memory Kathy Petruk & In Loving memory Ron Petruk, Bettyann, Breck & Roan Gibson, Roger & Shauna Petruk, Jerry Tymchak & In loving memory Evelyn Tymchak; Peggy Allen; Anne Hewko; Les & Darlene Ferguson; Don Tkachuk; Bill & Lydia Pawluk & Families; Rose & Dwayne Gorda; Elizabeth and Betty Lou Hewko; Randy and Jeanette Footz; Dennis & Patricia Anderson; Deb & Don Zaleschuk & family; Marvin & Margie Tomashavsky; Daryl & Shelley Sapp; Peter & Alice Sokoluk; Lawrence & Elaine Svitich; Marshall & Elsie Juba, Terence Juba; Randy & Cindy Kereliuk & family, Anne Marie & Dale Essensa, Brian & Joan Ferguson; Rose Hook; Brian Hook; Clarence Petroskey; Clarence Powley, In Loving Memory of Angie Powley, Annie Powley; The Wakaruk Family; In Memory of Louis Hirsch & Todd Hirsch; Diana and Marcel; Dianne & Ernie Gizowski; In loving memory of Victor Palahniuk; Gladys & family; Howard Austin Family; Shane, Rachel & Zach Farr;

Judy Woloshyn in loving memory of Peter Woloshyn; Lillian Kozickie & family; Phyllis, Edmond & Maurice Dubuc; Marie and Terry Gorda; Dan & Albina Beaudette; Arthur Beaudette

Matt Cage on stage and interacting with the audience. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rosanne Fortier

Rose Hook and other attendees browse the baked goods available for purchase. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

L-R: Marie Sambor, Gladys Palahniuk, Holly Cependa, Joanne Flaman. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

VCHS Hosts Academic Awards Ceremony

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The best and the brightest students were in the spotlight during Vegreville Composite High School’s, (VCHS) Academic Awards Ceremony on Dec. 2.

VCHS Assistant Principal Holly Warawa welcomed everyone to the ceremony, stating, “Tonight is an opportunity to celebrate the many academic, leadership and citizenship accomplishments from the past year. We are honoured to showcase and celebrate the unique accomplishments of our student body.”

Warawa introduced Elk Island Public Schools Trustee Randy Footz who represents Vegreville and the western portion of the County of Minburn. Footz, taught school in the area for 33 years, imparted a special message to students. He quoted famous poet, dramatist and writer William Butler Yeats, who stated that, “That education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire. Yates believed that the desire to learn and the desire to keep learning was more important than the knowledge itself.

Those of you are receiving recognition

this evening whether it be in the form of scholarship or for your academic performance in a particular subject or for your leadership or athletics; your accomplishments illustrate the fire of which Yates spoke. What you’ve been able to achieve is significant. It represents commitment and perseverance, and for that I commend each of you.

The educational fire is a combination of initiative, determination, creativity,

critical thinking skills, personal values, family values, societal values, a sense of responsibility and ultimately, your purpose in life.

As you move through the next year and beyond I encourage you to nurture those attributes, to feed the fire which, undoubtedly, will lead to continued success no matter the path you choose. Few people walk that path alone. Parents, siblings, classmates, friends

and your teachers have walked that path with you. They have inspired, guided and encouraged. It’s the classic example of that old adage that it takes a village to raise a child. I encourage all of you to set your goals high and strive for excellence as you continue in your studies.”

Principal Cheryl Semeniuk address parents and students by stating, “Tonight we have the privilege of reconnecting and celebrating the success and achievements of our students from the past academic year. These award recipients have not only excelled in academics, but also excelled in demonstrating leadership, flexibility, determination, diversity, self-confidence, responsibility and respect.

We’re very proud of our students and we’re so excited to honour them tonight. To the award recipients, take pride in your accomplishments. What you accomplished with very hard work and you did it. I also wanted to express my gratitude to the parents, teachers, community members who so generously contributed their time, money, energy and talents to help prepare our students for an uncertain future. As we celebrate those students tonight, I’m very confident that they’re future is very bright.”

Santa Brings Festive Cheer to Library

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Around 12 children along with their parents and caregivers attended the Story Time with Santa program at the Vegreville Centennial Library on December 8.

Box 810, 5110 - 50 St., Vegreville, AB T9C 1R9 or email: hr@newsadvertiser.com

to bring Santa to

“The activities we had were Santa read a few stories and we had a reindeer craft where people could make their own ornament as well as colouring pages and a chance to write letter to Santa.”

Michelle Pinon News

Library Programming Assistant Valerie Lowes said they offered this event because they thought it would be a good idea

their Story Time program to get the kids involved and to get a little bit of holiday spirit into the library before Christmas.

Children join Santa for a photo. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Eugene Demkiw Scholarship recipients Jenna Cronk, Reagan Suiter and Kalyna Palsitt. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

loved

celebrate.

Parents of young children are tempted to talk about Christmas magic that makes the world merry

and bright and it is painful when we layer loss onto that Christmas magic. There is irony of course when in grief, it is right and good to gather, to be with loved ones, to be with community. This is the wisdom of our ancient ancestors but when we gather with expectations; that is when the gathering becomes overwhelming or distant.

So, how can we participate in the meaningful gift of gathering at the holidays while also affirming our grief? The journal Psychology Today offers some help. They write to set boundaries. I think another word for this is to be gentle and graceful with yourself and be gentle and graceful with others. You can

spring of last year. It recognizes youth leaders across Canada with a commitment to character, service, and leadership. Dubelt is currently a student at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver studying for an applied science degree.

He believes, “My involvement with the CTEC program and our A+ for energy projects was the single most important thing that separated me from the rest of the applicants… I owe most of those skills to the school, and the teachers who pushed me to be so involved. So, I think specifically for me hoping to become an engineer I have a great advantage because I have first hand experience with design and applying your learning to the real world.”

He went on to say, “Mr. T was one of the most inspiring people for me as far as

my choice of program and career choice. He is hands down one of the most creative individuals I have met in my life… More importantly, Mr. T is the most genuine, humble, and happy people I know, his smile can seriously lighten up a room. It is so contagious.

If I admire him for anything it’s his optimism, and his dedication to his students, he told me recently that he had never missed more than two days of school in row while teaching and it shows through the success of the school! I am extremely grateful for Mr. T and all he has done for the school, as well as for me personally. I am overjoyed he is finally getting the recognition he deserves!”

Rudolf summed it up by stating, “What happened and what is happening in our school really personifies, “Small Town Big Dreams,” and with a dreamer like Mr. T, the only way to go is up.”

Candlelight Service - CONTINUED from front PAGE

Mr. T Making History - CONTINUED from PAGE 7

participate in what feels right to you and you have full freedom to politely decline events that you feel you don’t have the energy for. They write that we should tune into our grief emotions, plan ahead to fill empty roles, honour old traditions and honoured your memories, create new traditions when celebrating old traditions become too challenging, volunteer for your community, and ask for help when you are struggling.”

Mr. Tymofichuk, far right, with students in front of bus they are converting into a solar powered tiny home.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Rev. Darren Driedger (left) Guest Speaker Rev. James Lavoy. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos

Mundare Christmas Extravaganza Spreads Holiday Cheer

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Wagon Rides, Visits with Santa, as well as a Craft and Bake Sale offered a variety of fun-filled activities for families on Dec. 3. A total of 17 families visited Santa at the town administration building and there were 29 vendors with items to sell at the craft and bake sale at the Mundare Recreation Centre.

The event provides the Mundare Communities in Bloom, (CIB) committee the chance to host its major fundraiser of the year. CIB Chair Irene Talaga said they had three and a half tables full of donated baking featuring more than 50 platters for people to choose from.

“We had such great community support,” said Talaga.

She also saw many new residents throughout the day, with many of them contributing baked items.

Friends on the Mundare Library hosted Santa for some family pictures and funds raised during that event will be used to assist the Mundare Public Library in providing supplies for programing.

Christmas market at the Mundare Recreation Centre. (Town of Mundare/ Submitted Photo)

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Vegreville and District Co-op hosted its annual Holiday Food Entertaining Gala on December 6.

This event was meant to give people the opportunity to try different foods and offer ideas for entertaining during the upcoming holidays.

Bakery Manager Sarah Kisilevich said people usually enjoy ice box cookies, ginger snaps, and gingerbread and sugar cookies. “Personally, at home, sugar cookies, peanut butter chocolate chip cookies and toffee cookies are my family’s favorites, but for a lot of people the sugar cookies and shortbread are usually the go to Christmas cookies”

Deli Representative Joni Hoffer, pointed out, “You have to be very creative and know what type of food goes together with what. Then you have to arrange the colours of the food together to make it look appealing. But most food arrangements look good on a charcuterie board.”

LAND TENDER For Sale By Tender

VENDOR: Estate of Frances Jeanne Kuzyk

LANDS: NW 20-52-15 W4 (160 acres)

3 Miles Southwest of Vegreville TWP road 524 Range road 155

Property Tax Land Assessment - $48,310

LOCATION: County of Minburn, Alberta

POSSESSION: March 1, 2023

MINIMUM BID: $700,000.00

CONTACT: Century 21 Alta, 780-632-9454 Gary Kuchik Tender packages can be picked up, faxed, mailed or emailed.

DEADLINE: Tenders to be completed on the form provided in the tender package and must be received closed at:

Century 21 Alta #2, 4946 – 52 Avenue, PO Box 399 VEGREVILLE, AB T9C 1R4

ATTENTION: Gary Kuchik 780-632-9454

No later than 12:00pm on (January 13/2023)

FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER

SE1/4-30-52-13-W4 . Containing 160 acres more or less.

Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked Farmland Tender to Judy Gara, 5617 48A Street Vegreville, AB T9C 1G7 on or before 12 noon Thursday, December 15, 2022. The tender shall be accompanied by a GST number and a certified cheque or bank draft payable to Judy Gara for 5% of the tender price.

No “conditional tenders” will be accepted and the highest or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted.

Tenders will be opened at the office of Vegreville Accounting Services on Friday, December 16, 2022 at 1:00 PM. Tenderers welcome to attend. The deposits of unsuccessful tenderers will be returned.

The successful tenderer will be obligated to complete the purchase on or before January 15, 2023. The 5% deposit shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price. Failure to complete the transaction by the closing date will result in a forfeiture of the deposit.

Mannville and District Chamber of Commerce Hosts Christmas Extravaganza

Judy Gara hereby offers the following parcel of land in Minburn County for sale by tender, subject to all existing reservations and exceptions stated on the Certificate of Title. The parcel is part of the estate of Lawrence Gara & Judy Gara.

The Mannville Recreation Centre was brimming with activity and holiday cheer as the figure skating club hosted a pancake breakfast followed up by lunch hosted by the 2023 grad class. There were a total of 30 local vendors at the market that had a wide variety of items for sale. No Christmas event would be complete without a visit from Santa who posed for photos and went skating with local families. (Erin Hinton/Submitted Photos)

Bakery Manager Sarah Kisilevich. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Stock Clerk Angy Chernecki and Cashier Jenna Lee Gordon. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Vegreville Agricultural Society Hosts AGM

Alan Baxandall

Submitted

On Nov. 24 the Vegreville Agricultural Society hosted its Annual General Meeting of its 119th year. That’s right, 120 years in 2023. I hope the founders are proud of the society’s longevity and growth. Because personally, I am.

This past year, the society has seen a return to a more normal situation. Most restrictions are gone, but as with any situation, there are some procedures that remain, and probably for the good. Washing hands and sanitizing when you’re with 5,000 people you’ve never met isn’t a bad thing.

We had a decent auction to help farmers and others, part with items that they no longer needed and get it into the hands of someone that does.

We again hosted spring chuckwagon races. DASH TO SUMMER was very successful and allowed the association to get some practice and exercise after the winter break. By adding a horse show and vendors we continue to grow the event.

Next up was Fathers Day Event. Attendance was through the roof and everyone had a great time. This event is always well attended, but this year we exceeded expectations. Didn’t know what to expect after the last couple years.

Our fair was a five day show. Attendance was great, but more so, people enjoyed themselves. Young and old and everyone in between. From the parade to the final hour of the midway, fun was had by all. The Gord Bamford concert was a total success and a stepping stone for future endeavours.

We also hosted several horse clinics and the Ag arena was busy much of the year.

The grounds also play host to the Pysanka Festival and the Bunnock tournament. With the Ag Society working in conjunction with these groups, they are pleased with the facilities and that helps with their success.

The grounds staff keep busy all summer so we can provide a great place to have reunions, grad celebrations, combine clinics, weddings and you name it. Of course, when we aren’t hosting the bigger yearly events.

More importantly, personally, it’s so great to belong to a society that does so much for the community. The comradery is amazing. Ever since I can remember, we have aspired to have the whole community be a part of our group. However, with our events starting to outgrow our directorship, we’ve pulled in many service groups, sports associations and community entities to help. Our events flourish and they get fundraising abilities. It’s a WIN WIN. Involving the whole community has really been a bonus. New ideas, new strength, new attitude.

Vegreville Farmers’ Market Special Christmas Market

Vegreville Farmers’ Market offered one of its Special Christmas Markets on Dec. 9 at Vegreville Elks Hall.

Manager of Vegreville Farmers’ Market, Marlene Giebelhaus, said, they host these markets so vendors get a chance to show their crafts whether it is knitting, baking or something practical like snowmen soup. “We also have this market to add to the Christmas spirit and to enable people to shop local and check out the handmade items and various things available that people created.”

Back row L – R: Don Harfield, Suzanne Malo, John Litun, Shane Cartier, Roger Petruk, Derek Fox, Bryan Maynard and Kris Klammer. Middle row: Dan Beaudette, Bernice Bilyk

Front row L-R: Rachel Farr, Connie Steinwand, Tanya Hawkins, Alan Baxandall, Russell Crowe and Daryl Tuck.

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

People browse the items available. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Daycare to Open in Two Hills in 2023

Vermilion in the new year as there is a need for more childcare spots in Vermilion.

Our philosophy is “Learning Through Play.” Our program believes there is a relationship between play and all areas of development; play helps children practice what they already know and learn new things, it creates thought.

Our core values are a child’s well‐being, play and playfulness, communication and literacy, and diversity and social responsibility. Our goals have been developed through Alberta’s Early Learning and Care framework “Flight”; we have adopted this curriculum into our program plan.

In August, I was invited to meet with members of the Town of Two Hills FCSS, the County of Two Hills and the Two Hills School to see if Vermilion Play Development would be interested in opening a childcare centre within the Two Hills School.

ing this need that was identified in our community. SPERD, Two Hills School and Principal, have also been extremely helpful in working to make this idea become a reality.

The Vermilion Play Development Group is very professional and enthusiastic and we welcome them as they bring this most urgent and extremely valuable service to Two Hills and surrounding area. “

Advertiser

Two Hills and area residents will have the option of affordable child care thanks to Vermilion Play Development, (VPD) which will be offering child care services early in the new year.

The day care will be located in Two Hills School and Operations Manager Darla Snow said they are currently undergoing some renovations in preparation of opening in February of 2023. The day care will be able to accommodate up to 32 children from 19 months and older.

Snow pointed out that, “Families will have access to current affordability grants and subsidies to reduce their fees by up to 50 percent and more in some cases. This makes childcare very affordable.”

VPD is a non-profit society and charitable organization which has been in existence since 1978. “I help develop the policy and procedures, oversee Program Directors, handle daily operations, etc. I am accountable to the Executive Board. We have Program Directors that oversee the program and program staff. We have hired a Program Director and some staff, but are still looking for someone with a child care certification level of 2 or 3.”

Snow explained that, “VPD began as a preschool and slowly evolved into 4 Licensed programs in Vermilion: Early Learning (3-5years), KinderCare (Pre-K and Kindergarten age), Kids Korner (Grades 1 - 6) and our location at Lakeland College The Ark (12 months to 4 years). We will be opening a 5th centre in

Our board voted unanimously for it, desiring to meet the need of quality, affordable childcare in a community with limited access to it. We began the process of opening the space in partnership with St. Paul Education and the Two Hills School.”

County of Two Hills Div. 3 Councillor Dianne Saskiw sits as a representative on Two Hills FCSS and commented on the positive news. “We have realized for a long time that daycare is a major factor when trying to attract health care workers, teachers, and new businesses/companies that want to encourage employees to work and thrive in rural Alberta. Two Hills now will be able to provide Daycare, Preschool, Kindergarten and Grades 1-12 within one school. This new licensed Daycare Facility will definitely help our young working families.

Big thank you to Two Hills FCSS for supporting and promot-

Buying local is the eco-friendly way to shop for the holidays. When you opt for items produced and sold nearby, you help reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions created when goods are shipped. The need for excess packaging is also eliminated. This Christmas, help protect the environment by buying locally crafted presents, decorations, food and more.

Michelle Pinon News

Darla Snow with youngster at daycare in Vermilion.

(Vermilion Play Development/ Submitted Photo)

Tributes

His helping hand was always first To render any aid he could.

His voice was always raised in praise, His words were wise and good.

Dear Father, since you’ve gone away, The ones you loved so true Try hard to carry on the way We know you’d want us to.

Lovingly remembered by family, the Basilian Fathers and Holy Trinity Parishoners

RAWLUK, Terry

May 30, 1955 - December 19, 2012

It broke our hearts to lose you, But you didn’t go alone.

For part of us went with you

The day God called you home.

It’s so lonely here without you

For you’re spending Christmas In Heaven this year.

Forever loved and sadly missed by Loving mother Edna and brother Dale

Twelve years number a dozen this we all know

And that’s the amount of time that passed since you had to go

Our love for you has not lessened since that day, In fact it has grown for us in a special way.

We do miss all the help and love that you gave to us, Telling us often-we were late and we had better rush The stories of life and growing up - you did tell The building projects you took on - turned out ever so well.

We miss all those things and it’s the memories we have -

These are things we cherish a great husband and great dad

We know you have welcomed Lorrie and Ed to the heavenly family above, By easing our sadness you showed us your unconditional love.

As the years slip by - we will miss all the things you did do, Just remember that our love is eternal and will always be true.

SOPROVICH

(1924 - 1987 / 1926 - 2021)

We heard your voice in the wind today

And we turned to see your face

The warmth of the wind caressed us

As we stood silently in place

We felt your touch in the sun today

As its warmth filled the sky We closed our eyes for your embrace

And our spirits soared high

As long as the sun shines And the wind blows You will live on inside of us forever

For that is all our hearts know

Love, Donna, Kelly, Jackie, Cameron, Casey, Carlene, Curtis, Allison, Hannah & Kane

In

Diachuk,

July 8, 1944 - December 13, 2021

In Loving Memory of a dear wife & mother

God knew that she was suffering

That the hills were hard to climb,

So he closed her weary eyelids

And whispered, “Peace be thine.” Away in the beautiful hills of God, By the valley of rest so fair, Some day, we know not when, We will meet our loved one there.

Love always, Clarence, Trifon, Robyn Kim, Ken, & family

A year has passed since you left us and now, more than ever, we wish we could feel your warm embrace. We wish we could see your amazing smile. We wish we could spend just one more day with you. We wish, we wish, we wish… But God has something else in store for you. He’s taught us how important it is to be grateful for what we have and to cherish the life we were blessed to have spent with you. You have taught us all so much about family, love, and kindness, virtues that live on in your children and grandchild. We miss you every day and carry your memory with us always. May Jesus keep you in comfort and peace in Heaven until we see you again.

Love Always, Diane Brittany, Stephen and Isla Christine and Layton

Another year has passed of us being here without you. There is not a single day when we haven’t missed your presence and your warmth around us. Every day we are reminded of what we have lost and try to make our peace with it.

Remembering you is easy we do it every day. Its just the heartache of losing you that will never go away. You are dearly missed. May you have a blessed Christmas in heaven.

We’ll be looking for your bright star shining down on us on Christmas Eve.

A special time of the year that you so greatly enjoyed celebrating with us.

Always in our thoughts and prayers your wife Elizabeth, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

December 11, 2013.

Don’t think of her as gone away Her journey’s just begun, Life holds so many facets

This earth is only one. So think of her as living In the hearts of those she touched, For nothing loved is ever lost And Mom was loved so much.

Forever In Our Hearts

Love – Audrey & Rod, Patie, Sharon & families

Miss Me but let Me Go

When I come to the end of the road

And the sun has set for me

I want no rites in a gloom filled room Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not for long And not with your head bowed low Remember the love that once we shared Miss me, but let me go.

For this is a journey we all must take

And each must go alone.

It’s all part of the master plan A step on the road to home.

When you are lonely and sick at heart Go to the friends we know, Laugh at all the things we used to do Miss me, but let me go.

I Love you, I miss you Mom

TRISKA, Victoria (nee Palahniuk) March 24, 1936 – December 6, 2022

It is with extreme sadness, that the family announces the repose of Vicky Triska of Vegreville on December 6, 2022 at 86 years of age.

She will be dearly missed by her three children Joanna (Lorne) Calkins of Calgary, Antonia Triska of Sherwood Park, and Ihor (Lea Ann) Triska of Airdrie, and three grandchildren Nadia Calkins, Paul Triska, and Sophia Calkins. She also leaves behind brother-in-law, Peter Grykuliak of Vegreville AB, sister-in-law, Gladys Palahniuk of Vegreville, AB, sister-in-law Elizabeth Cherniwchan of Abbotsford, BC, sister-in-law Sonia Triska of Sherwood Park, AB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was predeceased by her husband Marshall, parents Katherine and John, and siblings Sally, Lena, Mary, Sadie, and Victor, as well as infant siblings Vasyl and Vasylena.

Sincere gratitude is extended to the management and staff of Points West Living - Heritage House in Vegreville for the compassionate care that they provided for her final years of life.

A Prayer Service will be held on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir (5146 - 48 Avenue) in Vegreville, Alberta.

As well, a Funeral Service will be held in the same location on Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. with Reverend Father Slawomir Lomaszkiewicz officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery.

The family kindly requests, that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of St. Vladimir – Vegreville.

To send condolences please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

Autumn Rose Funeral Home Ltd. Vegreville, 780-603-5800

MEMORIAM

Donna

In Memory of George & Daisy Soprovich

In Loving Memory of David Wayne Lotoski

May17, 1959 - December 14, 2021

Dehid, Marshall

January 20, 1936 - December 16, 2015

In Loving memory of a Dear Husband, Father & Grandfather Today, tomorrow, our whole life through We will always love and remember you!

Pat & Your Loving Family

Susan Halabut

loving memory of our dear Mother and Baba, Susan Halabut, who sadly left us on

Lyndon Bane Dorash 1983 - 2017

David Wayne Lotoski May 17, 1959 - December 14, 2021 The lights in town seemed very dim. On the day that we lost him. I don’t know was God’s choice right. Vegreville’s lights will never shine as bright. Alex, Deb, and Family

STUART, David

In Loving Memory of David Stuart 1954 - 2010

Missed by Leanne, Jen & Hector, Jacquie & Corie, James & Dorothy, family and friends

Steve Seniuk April 24, 1937- December 18, 2011

Father Vincent (Wasyl) Prychidko OSBM

March 17, 1918 - December 11, 2012

On the afternoon of December 4, 2022 Gerard “Geri” Tetreau passed away at the age of 62, at home, surrounded by loved ones.

Geri was born to Alphonse and Marguerite Tetreau “Punch and Peggy” in Vegreville, Alberta on September 16, 1960 and was the youngest of 7 siblings. Geri grew up helping his father on the farm learning to be a master of all trades. Into adulthood he began working in the oil patch, working his way up in Tri-City drilling. Geri then met Cheryl Raskauskas and the two were married in the summer of 1984. One year later, 4 days before Geri’s 25th birthday they welcomed their one and only child, Andrew Joseph Tetreau. Geri and Cheryl later separated but remained the best of friends throughout the years. In February 2012 Geri was injured in a workplace accident and was given little time remaining. Against all odds, he prevailed through pure heart and strength and proved nothing could hold him back. He was able to give his family another wonderful 10 years of time with him. During those years Geri enjoyed many things including weekly swimming and luncheons with his siblings, “Tetreau Tuesdays” with Cheryl, and weekend catchups with his son and daughter-in-law, Andrew and Corrie Tetreau. In February 2020 Geri was able to attend his son’s wedding and said it was one of the happiest and proudest moments of his life. Geri also enjoyed family occasions where he was able to sit and reminisce about past times with his large family including many cousins and even more nieces and nephews. He was always known to bring a smile to any conversation.

Geri is predeceased by his parents, Alphonse and Marguerite Tetreau; brother, Joe Tetreau; brother-inlaw, Jack Toner; and his niece, Jill Farrell.

He is survived by his son, Andrew Tetreau (Corrie); and his siblings, Mary Louise Toner, Georgena Kolodychuk (Marvin), Paul Tetreau (Betty), Gloria McDonald (Cam) and Albertine Vinet (Darryl). As well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews, ex-wife and good friend, Cheryl Tetreau and special friends and companions, Rehka and Aziz.

Geri loved to be in warm climates, therefore we will be having a Celebration of Life in spring of 2023, where he will be inurned in Vegreville with his parents and brother. Details to follow closer to that time.

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

Park Memorial - Edmonton 780-426-0050

Family Owned Funeral Home

MARTINIUK, Kenneth Peter

January 9, 1943 – December 7, 2022

Kenneth Peter Martiniuk of Mundare, AB passed away on December 7, 2022 at the age of 79 years.

Ken was born on January 9, 1943 in Mundare, AB. Shortly, after graduating Grade 12 he attended the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology where he studied to become a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic. He developed many skills working different jobs across Alberta, BC and Alaska. Eventually, he went on his own under KPM Mechanical.

Whether it was delivering parts, giving a ride, remembering birthdays or saying “don’t buy that, I have it somewhere”, Ken was a generous and dependable person with his time and resources. He was always willing to help out and never expected anything in return for his assistance. Ken would often be seen working slow and steady on a project with a cigar in his mouth, Coca Cola in hand and followed by his pet cat. He loved working throughout the night, growing tomatoes and helping on the farm.

Throughout his life, Ken enjoyed buying and selling antiques. His interest in collectibles entertained him and he worked with many local antique groups. He is listed as Charter Member #11 with the Wildrose Antique Collectors Society, where he had a part in founding the group. Even selling online, his quiet sense of humour was seen in his username “Mouldy Oldy”.

Ken is survived by his sister Audrey Zeleny (Bill); three nieces: Kelly Zeleny (Ron Malowany) of Mundare, Kim Zeleny (John Mekar) of Edmonton and Amber Hepfner (Ryan) of Medicine Hat, AB; and two great nieces: Jessie Zeleny and Hayley Hepfner. He was predeceased by his parents Peter and Rose Martiniuk.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will occur at a later date. Donations in memory of Ken may be made to the “Mary Immaculate Hospital (Mundare) Foundation” or “STARS Foundation”.

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

TURCHIN, Donald Daniel

January 1, 1945 – December 1, 2022

On Thursday, December 1, 2022, Donald Turchin of Mundare, Alberta passed away at the age of 77 years.

Donald is survived by his common-law wife, Susan; children Kevin (Marie) and Tammy (Rod) Easy; grandchildren Brittany, Courtney, Chelsey, Morgan, Wyatt and Paige; great-grandson Link; sister Cynthia Lazariuk; sister-in-law Marsha Turchin; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Donald was predeceased by his parents Carl and Jean Turchin; brothers John and Hank (Darlene); brother-inlaw Paul Lazariuk.

A private Funeral Mass was celebrated by Father Robert Lee at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church – Mundare. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to “Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church –Mundare.”

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD. Vegreville,780-603-5800

GIEBELHAUS, Elizabeth

Elizabeth Pauline (Li) Giebelhaus, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend passed away peacefully in her home on December 9th, 2022.

Her laughter, smiles and love will be deeply missed by her children Anita, Debbie, Sharon, Dana (Fern); grandchildren Patrick, Shannon, Richard (Michelle), Sarah (Tyler), Adam, Amy (Dean), Sydney, Kristy; great grandchildren Lincoln, Lukas, Elise, Konrad, Jakob, Nicholas, Griffin, her nieces, nephews and her many ‘adopted’ children, grandchildren, and families.

Li is survived by her siblings Ruthie Adria and Jean Krieger. She was predeceased by her parents Elisabeth and Reverend Johannes Krieger, her brothers Johannes and Jann, her husband Daniel of 60 years and her son Eric.

Born in Wolseley, Saskatchewan on November 25th, 1928, Li spent the early years of her life moving from Canada to Germany and then to Josephburg, Alberta.

A graduate from the U of A Education Program, Li was a lifelong learner, master teacher and musician. On July 10th, 1952, Li married the love of her life Dan, and moved to Vegreville to raise a family.

Li lived each day to the fullest. She will be remembered by all for her warmth, kindness, gentle hugs and love of family and friends; her handwritten notes; her service to her church family as a layperson, organist, choral director, UCW, Sunday school, CGIT, World Day of Prayer; her passion for literature, art, photography and music; her volunteerism and dedicated service to multiple organizations and people; gatherings at Danli Farm and Danli Acres; her pride in being Canadian; her ‘camera’, ‘iPad’ and ‘guestbook(s)’; her steadfast, unwavering faith in God and her belief in the goodness in all mankind. Li’s lasting words are, “Life is beautiful!”

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, December 22nd at 11:00 a.m. in the Vegreville Social Center 4802 47a St, Vegreville, AB with Reverend Anne McGrath officiating.

The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the Palliative Home Care Team that cared for Li with the gentlest hands, genuine love, and utmost respect. We are forever grateful.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Bursary Fund for Li Giebelhaus, Founder of the WENDY BROOK MUSIC FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION Box 2075, Vegreville, AB T9C 1T3

Patients’ Comfort Society Vegreville Care Centre Box 295, Vegreville, AB T9C 1R2

Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute 8440-112 St. NW, Edmonton, AB T6G 2B7

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

Hoffman, Mary March 20, 1924 – December 4, 2022

On Sunday, December 4, 2022, Mary Hoffman formerly of Warburg, Alberta passed away at the Mary Immaculate Care Centre in Mundare at the age of 98 years.

Mary is survived by her loving family, children Reeva (Don) Gordash and Shane Hoffman; grandchildren and great-grandchildren Ronette (Don) Robinson and their children Naomi and Isaiah; Robbie (Adele) Gordash and their children Madison and Myckaila; Kylie Gordash (Martha) and their children Alexander, Nolan, Tristan and Siobhan; Skylar Sauve and his children Cash, Ellie and Bennet. Mary was predeceased by her husband Martin; parents John and Annie Goldthorpe; siblings Harriet, Hirst, Edith, Mervin and Lorraine.

Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. 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

TETREAU, Gerard “Geri”

Gingerbread Men Themed Pancakes and Play Program

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

The Kalyna Family Resource Network, (KFRN) Vegreville and Area Centre offered a Gingerbread Men Themed Pancake and Play program on Dec. 10 KFRN Hub Coordinator Tammy Iftody said this program is extension of the Stay and Play program. “We like to know ahead of time if they are coming but it really is a drop in program. We have parents come in with their kids and we provide some activities for them to do. At this session, we made gingerbread playdoh men, the pancakes we served them were in the shape of gingerbread men, we had songs they could dance to on the screen and stories they could listen to. This program helps kids because our kids from birth to five-years-old who didn’t have a chance to play with other kids or even be beside other kids because of being isolated due to COVID-19. We

Crrazy Laws

find that this is a place where children can go through that and have their melt downs or get upset and all that, but we are here to help the parents find out how to handle that in a group setting.

We talk about strategies.

It is a way of preparing kids for the next step which might be preschool. This is a safe place to learn how to do that. It is about learning how to learn because they have been used to having their parents as everything to them and they didn’t have to go through finding their way and then it is hard to just put them into school, so we are the in between place.

This program also shows parents activities they can do with their kids at home.”

KFRN Hub Coordinator Tammy Iftody (Bottom Left Inset) and many of the participants. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Vegreville Town Council Passes 2023 Budget

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Residents and business owners in the Town of Vegreville will be paying two percent more in taxes in 2023.

Mayor Tim MacPhee said it was a “modest increase” from the last couple of years, but a return to pre-pandemic levels.

The budget, along with the three-year operating and capital plan was passed at the Nov. 28 regular council meeting

Corporate Services Director Meghan Saskiw stated that, “Based on average home prices in Vegreville, this increase will result, on average, an additional $3.28 per month, per household.” That amounts to $39.36 for the year. “For a small business with a similar assessment to the average household in town this will equate to an increase of $6.07 per month, for an aggregate of $72.82 for the entire year.”

Overall, thoughts on the budget? MacPhee replied, “I think we’re pretty satisfied coming out of the last two years of Covid and not knowing exactly how our facilities were going to be operated…So, now, we hopefully can get back to 2020 levels at our facilities, and our user fees will be close to what they were.”

Soaring inflation rates, which drove up the operating costs of the town, coupled with a sizable increase in policing costs would not allow for tax rates to remain unchanged.

“It was a great increase in operating costs. Inflation alone, and the pressure it’s put on all departments. We had to reflect that in this year’s budget. We don’t know when exactly we’ll see some of these pressures lessen and drop down to previous levels,” said MacPhee.

As far as policing costs, MacPhee pointed out that RCMP formed a union and the amount of retroactive pay amounted to $500,000. “With that, the citizens in Town of Vegreville are paying about $160,000 more than they paid for policing costs last year,” noted MacPhee.

The budget also includes a three percent increase in the cost of living allowance for town employees. That amounts to approximately $174,000. Saskiw said the town has been 80 and 100 employees throughout the year at any given time.

MacPhee explained that one of council’s top priorities is the attraction and retention of employees. “We know it, three percent doesn’t represent half of the inflationary prices, but we only have so many dollars to work with. We wish we could do more, but want to thank staff for identifying what those needs were so that we

could maintain the same level of taxes we had two years ago.”

As far as capital projects, completion of SE 17 development, (Prosperity Park) is pegged at $2.9 million and is covered by government grants.

MacPhee said, “One of our biggest projects is the replacement of the forced sanitary sewer lines from the sanitary lift station to the lagoons. “We’ve done some research and it’s a project we can’t wait to do. We can’t for more leaks. If it goes down we’re in deep trouble.”

MacPhee said they had previously talked to the province about grant funds for the project and he met with the new Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors Devin Dreeshen on Dec. 6.

MacPhee said they were looking for clarification on funding and pressing the importance of the project upon Minister Dreeshen. The Town is also applying for federal funding. As far as a definitive response, MacPhee said that won’t come until after the provincial and federal budgets have been approved. Regardless, MacPhee said, “No matter what, we will start this project in the spring.”

With the funding split between province and federal government, MacPhee said they are hoping to receive $1.5 million with the remaining $600,000 to borne by the Town of Vegreville. Without any funding, the price tag could go as high as $2.9 million.

In terms of paving projects, MacPhee said the road in Pysanka Park requires a new base and needs to be paved. “We were over 80,000 visitors last year and the condition of the road is not very good. It’s a big draw and brings a lot of people to our community, and we’d like to have this done so their first impression going into the park is a very good one.”

MacPhee said the project is a priority for the Town and they are hoping to have it completed by the May long weekend. Estimated cost for the project is $414,000.

Adam’s

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Lakeland

Tingley’s Harvest Center

780-632-3246

Tower Tack & Western Wear 780-632-1205

Twin Lakes Ready Mix & Aggregates 780-632-7787

Vantage Builders / Vantage Building Supplies 780-632-3422 / 780-632-2119

Vegreville Auto Body 780-632-2445

Vegreville & District Co-op 780-632-2884

Vegreville Dental Centre 780-632-3368

Vegreville Drug Mart 780-632-7660

Vegreville Home Hardware 780-632-3388

Vegreville Liquor Store 780-632-7732

Vegreville Mechanical 780-632-4140

Vegreville News Advertiser 780-632-2861

Vegreville Plumbing & Heating 780-632-2275

Vito’s Steak & Pizza and Sports Lounge 780-632-3999

VM Systems 780-632-2859

Webb’s Machinery 780-632-6772

The Brick Vegreville 780-632-6100

Vegreville Family Dental 780-632-3912

Xtreme Power Products 780-632-7780