Vegreville News Advertiser - February 8, 2023

with her children

Hook and Shirley Rattray. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

WHAT’S INSIDE

January 30

11:18 – Report of a white Chevy Silverado truck with a yellow welder in the back weaving in and out of traffic, nearly causing accidents on Hwy 16 near RR 163 near Mundare. Call forwarded to the Sherwood Park detachment.

11:36 – Report of a stolen truck from a business in Vegreville. Vehicle added to the RCMP database. Under investigation.

12:41 – Report of a suspicious black truck entering a rural property near Vegreville. Patrols in the area will be conducted.

15:10 – Report of a skiddoo parked north of a rural residence in the pasture by some bushes. Members attended and determined that skidoo was not stolen. The machine was towed and placed in compound until the owner claims it.

21:21 – Call from EMS about an intoxicated male who was riding a scooter in the middle of the road and on a walking path. Patrols were made but turned up negative.

January 31

01:39 – Report of suspicious vehicle on RR 163 in Lamont County. Members attended and determined that there were several vehicles involved in construction in the area. They had permits and advised they would be there for the next 50 days.

08:11 – Report of two snowmobiles near some granaries along RR 155 near Mundare. Members attended and located the snowmobiles covered in snow. They met with the company employee who stated they tried to cover the snowmobiles and would be returning in the coming days to continue their work.

12:00 – Report of snowmobilers monitoring and spying on the complainant and looking at his cabin. Members believe the subjects of the complaint may be the surveyors from the previous file.

February 1

07:53 – Report of semi driving recklessly. Members unable to intercept due to poor weather and road conditions. Forwarded to Fort Saskatchewan detachment and contact made with company dispatch to talk to driver about complaint.

13:18 – Complaint of a white Freightliner with the diver on the phone and his foot on the dash driving recklessly. Under investigation.

14:33 – Report of theft in rural Vegreville. A hose on a fuel tank was cut and fuel was siphoned. Additionally, a shed was broken into and three jerry cans of fuel were missing.

23:23 – Report of a suspicious vehicle at a farmyard on RR 123 near Ranfurly. Members patrolled the area but did not locate the vehicle.

February 2

06:32 – Report of a 24’ utility trailer stolen overnight from a Vegreville area construction site. The trailer information added to the RCMP database. Under investigation.

08:16 – Traffic enforcement in the area. Tickets included equipment violation, window tint, driving without a license and others.

11:17 – Report of footprints around a vehicle and the gas cap sitting on the tire of a vehicle parked in Vegreville. Owner determined gasoline was missing. Under investigation.

spinning tires and revving the engine around a Vegreville neighbourhood. Patrols turned up negative, but members are familiar with the subject of the complaint and will follow up.

February 4

18:40 – Report of an abandoned vehicle near HWY 16 and RR 171. Members attended and located the vehicle. The registered owner was contacted who stated that the vehicle had broken down. Vehicle was towed off of the roadway.

February 5

10:03 – Report of a possibly intoxicated female passed out in a vehicle in Vegreville. Members attended and tests determined that the driver was sober and simply sleeping.

11:03 – Traffic enforcement resulting in tickets for speeding, equipment violations, tinted taillights and others.

19:27 – Report of mischief where the complainant’s apartment door was “egged”. Complainant indicated that there was tension between them and others in the building. Under investigation.

19:51 – While on patrol members conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle which failed to stop at an intersection. The driver was issued a ticket for failing to produce a driver’s license carrying a voluntary penalty of $243.

February 6

07:40 – Ticket issued in Vegreville for failing to produce registration.

07:53 – Complainant reported that their vehicle parked in Vegreville had been entered overnight. The door handle was broken and the ignition was tampered with. Under investigation.

February 3

11:40 – Call to assist Vegreville Fire. Members attended a Vegreville location and conducted traffic control. No injuries reported and fire not deemed suspicious.

11:35 – Report of mischief where the owner indicated tires on his truck were flat. Under investigation.

13:13 – Theft of vehicle. Two males came to look at a vehicle the complainant had for sale in Vegreville. They asked the complainant for an item which he went to the house for. When he came back, the two males were gone and so was the truck. The vehicle was added to the RCMP database. Under investigation.

20:13 – Report of a newer white truck

During the week there were 82 calls for service, including: 2 false 911s, 1 animal strike, 3 wellbeing checks, 21 relationship violence, 14 calls under the Mental Health Act or related to mental health, and approximately 11 tickets from traffic enforcement.

The RCMP encourages members of the community to contact them if they have any information on files listed in the Blotter.

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.

RCMP files from January 30 - February 6 Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser

Tofield RCMP Investigate Theft of St. Mary’s Church Bell Near Holden

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

On Jan. 22, Tofield RCMP were alerted to a theft and mischief to St. Mary’s Church near the Village of Holden. Suspects stole the 98-yearold church bell, ripping it from the bell tower.

Surveillance video shows an older model blue Dodge dually with a push bar in front and a white canopy, followed by a white/silver SUV or Van, dragging the church bell and pulling it off.

Church Secretary-Treasurer

Eileen Komarnisky shakes her head in dismay while surveying the badly damaged bell tower and pile of lumber near the sacred building that was maliciously ripped apart by vandals in the early morning hours of Jan. 22 between 2:26 am and 2:53 am according to surveillance video.

“I just don’t understand. What are they going to do with it?” She said it’s a landmark in the area and doesn’t know why anyone would want to destroy the building to get a bell, although there have been similar thefts at a couple of other churches.

Komarnisky said she was returning home from mass at St. Gregory

Catholic Church in Holden when her daughter told her the shocking news that the church bell had been stolen.

“We had a merchant in Holden, Mr. Black, and he donated the bell to this church in 1925. The bell is marked with the name of the church and the year it was installed.”

She hopes whoever has the bell will bring it back. “I would love to have them drop it off. Drop it off and no charges or anything would be laid.”

Komarnisky says the church was built in 1907. Ukrainian Catholic Church of The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, better known as “St. Mary’s South Holden” became a Registered Historic Site in 1994 under the Province of Alberta’s heritage program.

If you have any information regarding this crime, or the individual(s) responsible, please contact Tofield RCMP at 780-6623353. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

Top Left: One of the suspects’ vehicles.

Top Right: Stolen church bell. (Tofield RCMP/Submitted Photos) Church Secretary-Treasurer Eileen Komarnisky showing the extensive damage. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Arthur Beaudette News Advertiser – Opinion

Participation awards. A participation award is normally one given to children participating in a sporting event. The idea is that those who would not normally place in the top of the field would be provided an award for participating. There are logical arguments on both sides of the debates. On one hand, there’s nothing more enjoyable than seeing a hoard of little children running around after a soccer ball or skating after a hockey puck without the slightest thought of keeping score or winning. Fun is paramount and that is important for children. On the other hand, many feel that at some point, everyone must learn that accomplishments come from hard work and that not everyone wins.

I must confess that much like many others, I had the impression that participation awards were associated with millennials, (Generation Y). In looking into the practice, I found that one of the earliest mentions occurred in 1922. The Evening Independent, a newspaper in Ohio, United States reported on participation trophies being presented at a basketball event. The article, “Many Trophies For Tossers In State Tourney” covered the tournament in Columbus Ohio where all participants would receive a trophy for playing.

The whole topic makes me wonder about the debate. Do participation awards affect some people into adulthood? Say for instance… some politicians??

Now hold on while I run though this. I want to touch on current

events, but I can’t help but think about the long running events surrounding military procurement. Jets, submarines, planes, helicopters, skidoos, etc. It seems that our government is content with “participating” and not actually achieving anything.

When the war in Ukraine came to the forefront, Canada seemed to be fine with simply playing a part vs stepping up with an effort that could truly make a difference. There’s always talk about “punching above our weight” and “contributing in other ways,” but that rhetoric is getting old with the international community.

The recent and most glaring example has been around the west’s commitment of heavy arms to Ukraine. It took a few days to get the ball rolling, but now there have been announcements of significant commitments to tanks headed to Ukraine.

There are plenty of comparisons that can be made, however, I will pick two countries to start. Canada and Poland. Eleven days ago, Canada pledged four tanks to Ukraine. Early this week, there was “news” showing that ONE tank had been placed on an aircraft to make its way to Ukraine. ONE.

Poland on the other hand has really stepped up. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki stated “Poland sent 250 tanks as the first country half a year ago or even more than that.” Most recently, Poland has committed to 14 of the much sought after Leopard 2 tanks, 30+ Polish made PT-91s, and various Soviet era T-72s.

To put that into perspective, Poland has a slightly larger population than Canada with approximately 38 million people. However, their GDP is $592 Billion USD vs Canada’s $2.2 trillion USD. Even Morocco with a GDP of $142 billion USD has committed 20 modernized Moroccan T-72B tanks.

Canada, despite having significantly more resources than other nations, chooses to do as little as possible to be included with other nations. Despite having arms unused in storage, we commit a minimum. If our own military is in disrepair to a point of not having operational tanks, Canada could resort to buying from Belgium arms trader OIP Land Systems who seems to have more tanks than the Canadian military on hand. We seem content to have our name on a list to show we participated. Maybe that’s enough for a medal in some rooms, but not on the world stage.

Many questions have been asked about Canada’s absence from American-British-Australian security pact “AUKUS”. Even our own military establishment is asking these questions, however, our government is downplaying the situation. Defence Minister Anita Anand’s office continues sidestepping the questions about why our closest allies made a deliberate move to exclude us from security agreements.

It seems obvious that our allies have lost faith in our ability to be a meaningful contributing partner. The next question may be if we can change their opinion and gain a seat at the table with the adults.

We can only hope that our federal government can find one such adult in the room who is not content with a participation medal. This individual would be one who can somehow convince other decision makers that in the real world, there are winners and losers, and simply participating doesn’t win any awards.

Tell me what you think. Email me at abletters@newsadvertiser.com

denying further rent supplement to Two Hills Dental Care which leases space in the town’s administrative building.

Council unanimously agreed to deny the request for another six months of rent supplement for the dental office which has not been able to find a permanent dentist.

“We gave six months last year if I’m right, and the year before we gave. For example, my daughter went to see them in Wainwright and tried to book in for a cleaning. She has to book a year ahead of time and they are not open here. Same office. And I’m going this is ridiculous. Myself, personally, I am against giving anything like this cause we’ve already done two years,” said Councillor Michael Tarkowski.

Councillor Arnold Romaniuk said, “I guess I’m kind of agreeing with that because we’ve already had one resident in here and was very adamant when this

dental clinic was going to open.”

“We cannot keep extending giving concessions because we are answering to the taxpayers,” stated Councillor Sonny Rajoo, who agreed with his colleagues.

“We’ve done enough. We’ve been patient.

It’s not just the money now…For example, telling people we’re getting a dentist.

Three years later we still don’t have one.”

Mayor Leonard Ewanishan said it was understandable to provide support during and after Covid and that the town has stepped up quite a bit, “but now it’s up to them to honour the contract that they signed with us and put out the product we want here.”

Ewanishan made the motion to deny the request, which was carried unanimously by council.

According to the Town of Two Hills the rent supplement it covered between January and June, 2022 was $1,300. Rent due from July to December, 2022 was $3,250.

Dr. Ali Ebrahim said, “Alberta Dental Care has four practices in Alberta with Two Hills being one of them. We provide

underserviced procedures that we’ve been trying to implement that in all of our practices.”

They opened the Two Hills office in 2020, but have only been able to operate periodically since that time. “Our main concern was were looking for a fulltime dentist that would fit the niche, not just picking anyone, someone who is well rounded and would be great for Two Hills, and we haven’t filled that role yet.”

Dr. Ebrahim said he is still fully committed to keeping the business in the community. “That’s been our mission

for all four of our practices, to be a part of the community. We try and support the community when we can and go from there.

We really want to bring a fully serviceable dental office there, it’s just challenging at the moment. But we’re getting close, we’re hoping.

As far as council’s decision not to continue to provide rent supplement, Dr. Ebrahim said, it is a little disheartening. “A little bit of support would be nice on that front, but at the end of the day, it’s their decision and we’re here to try and do whatever we can to try and get the right people in the door and support the town and their oral health needs.”

Above, Below and Inset: Two Hills Dental Care office.

Main Photo: Mayor Leonard Ewanishan, left, and Dr. Ali Ebrahim in winter of 2021.

(Two Hills Dental Care/Submitted Photos)

90 Years Ago – February 8, 1933

Mrs. Helen F. Morton and H.H. Hacker were returned to the public school board by acclamation on Monday. Separate School trustees returned by acclamation included Mrs. A. Couillard, Simeon Sysak and Robert Henley.

Mild winters by making foraging easy, have resulted in remarkable increases of game in the Rocky Mountains adjacent to Jasper National Park, reports the Canadian National Railways. Hunters in the territory have seen as many as 46 moose and 25 caribou in a single day, in addition to deer and mountain sheep. Elk are visible in herds and a 15 year ban on them has been lifted.

The third session of the seventh legislature open on February 9th, and it is expected that the programme of legislation will be light. Two new members will take their seats this session, namely, C.A. Ronning U.F.A. member for Camrose and Norman Hindsley, independent member for Calgary.

W.A. Fallow was re-elected mayor of Vermilion by acclamation on Monday. Another mayor receiving acclamation was Geo. B. Bruce of Tofield.

75 Years Ago – February 11, 1948

Elections or the council of the Village of Lavoy were held on Monday. Wm. Purdue was elected by a vote of 43 to 25. The other Lavoy councilors for the current year are Stewart Arthur and Paul Bilyk.

New faces seen at the offices of the Canadian Utilities Limited this week are Chas. Owens, formerly of Drumheller and Alex Desmond of Calgary. The Utilities have plenty of clerical work to do and the newcomers will find their hands full.

A United Kingdom firm has received a $20 million order for agricultural tractors for the U.S.A., the biggest single order yet recorded in Britain’s export drive. The first shipment was made this month and subsequent deliveries are scheduled at a weekly rate valued at $500.000.00 until the order is completed.

Game birds in south-western Manitoba have not been forgotten this cold and wintry weather, as grain is being dropped from an airplane to provide food for them. Through the efforts of members of the Melita Game and Fish association, G. Serafin, game guardian of Virden, has been flown over the Sourisford district by C. Reddaway to drop grain for the pheasants. The grain was packed in paper bags, about 10 pounds to a bag, which broke when striking the ground.

50 Years Ago – February 8, 1973

The friendly stampede hamlet of Bruce hosted 20 rinks from Vegreville, Ryley, Holden, Viking, Tofield, Irma and Edmonton at their annual Ladies Spiel. Vrolson rink from Vegreville won the grand challenge. Strilchuk rind of Ryley took the second event while the Ziegler rink of Vegreville took the third event.

Cpl. D. A. Haubrick, commander of the Vegreville Post R.C.M.P. was promoted to the rank of sergeant.

Members of the staff of Alberta Government Telephones in Vegreville participated in a one-day bonspiel held at the Heather Curling Club rink. Twenty-four rinks took part in the fun-filled event with the three top rinks being those skipped by Al Stafford, 1st: Vic Laboucaine, 2nd: and Alex Siry, 3rd: Draw master for the day was Bob Lowry.

One enterprising businessman floated into Dawson City during the gold rush of 1898 with a cow and achieved his ambitions to be the first man to sell fresh mill in the Klondike. He charged $30 a gallon and was immediately nicknamed “Cow” Miller.

The owner of the Aurora saloon in Dawson City in 1898 sold a mugful of milk over his bar for five dollars a shot, five times the price of a shot of whiskey.

25 Years Ago – February 10, 1998

Vegreville Mayor David Kucherawy cut the ribbon at the grand opening of Brother’s Countrywide, the newest offering of home furnishings, appliances and electronics in Vegreville. Also included were presentations by Dan Beaudette, president of the Chamber of Commerce, and Bill Yizek, manager of the local Treasury Branch. The store also includes a Radio Shack outlet.

Rose Moroziuk was surrounded by almost 100 family members on February 7, to help celebrate her 100th birthday. Mrs. Moroziuk was born in Ukraine in 1898 and immigrated to Canada at four years old, settling in the Mundare area. After marrying her husband Alex, they lived in the Slawa/Derwent area, making a living farming and raising seven children. They retired to Vegreville in 1958; her husband passed away in 1969.

A event winners at the Two Hills Farmers Bonspiel was the Kitz rink, featuring Larry, Garry, Terry and Joe Kitz. They defeated Greg Skoropadyk, Doug Oscar, Diane Swedgan and Ron Andrashewski. Third event went to the Dennis Soprovich rink while the Garry Laschowski rink took fourth. Eugene Dmytriw presented the trophies on behalf of UFA Farm Supply The bonspiel attracted 36 teams.

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.

How to Resolve the Health-Care Deadlock in Canada

Bryan Schwartz University of Manitoba

The provinces say they need more federal money for health. The federal government says it wants to be assured of improved outcomes first.

In my view, adding money, even with various provinces and metrics, will not be sufficient. We will still have huge problems with inadequate staff, waiting lists, procedures that are simply not offered, and lack of innovation, among other problems.

The health-care system cannot be fixed within the rigidities imposed by federal policy that does not allow the provinces enough room to provide the best mix of public and private payment. Almost all other developed countries allow for a reasonable mix. We in Canada have to find our own hybrid. Otherwise, we will continue the paradox: Compared to many other countries, on a per capita basis, we pay more and get less.

Let me propose a way forward for Canada. The idea is to seek an approach that can be widely agreed upon by people with different political views, beliefs, and practical experiences. It would invite decision-making based on evidence, not ideology.

First, the Canada Health Act must permit more room for experimentation and innovation by provincial governments. Federalism is a fundamental value of Canada. Provinces have primary authority over health-care delivery. In different provinces, new ideas can be formulated and tested. They may involve some options where patients pay for care directly or through private insurance. We can see what works and what does not.

Second, the flexibility permitted by Health Canada could be guided by the “mutual reinforcement” principle. More privatepay options will be allowed to the extent that a provincial government has reasonably determined that it will not harm the quality, timeliness, and accessibility of the publicly insured system. The standard is “a private-pay option can be permitted or facilitated by a provincial government if it does not damage, and preferably promotes, the publicly insured system.”

So, the current publicly insured system remains the starting point. The aim is to make it as good as it can be in terms of accessibility, quality, timeliness, efficiency, and outcomes, given all the other constraints on public spending. But the prov- inces would be permitted to explore whether some private-pay options would, in fact (not merely under ideological presumptions), improve the publicly insured system.

For example, in some circumstances, it might make sense to permit a physician to practice in both the mainstream

(publicly funded) and their own private-pay clinic. If the two roles are properly co-ordinated, the physician might end up doing more procedures overall and reduce the demand on the mainstream system. The private-pay clinic might be a space where innovation takes place in response to provider creativity and patient preference and may eventually be incorporated into the mainstream system.

Some freedom to practice outside the mainstream system might encourage the physician to remain in Canada or attract other physicians to locate here. Patients who might otherwise seek care outside of the country might instead take advantage of private practices here, with the taxes from private practices helping to support the mainstream system.

You can propose scenarios, of course, in which the privatepay option damages the mainstream system. For example, in some circumstances, it could result in fewer overall procedures being done in the mainstream system. In other scenarios, you might show that the private-pay option substantially reduces voter or government enthusiasm for maintaining and improving the mainstream system.

The key point is that increased freedom and flexibility for provincial regulators, providers, and especially patients would not be ruled out or ruled in by a reformed federal policy. Instead, there would be a standard: Does an innovation help in some ways and either improve or at least not hurt the mainstream system? There would be requirements for applying that standard. Particular innovations would be introduced and monitored on a transparent and evidence-based method, not based on rigid ideology.

An analogy is relevant. It is widely accepted that economic development and environmental improvement can reinforce each other. There is no guarantee, however, that this is always the case. Instead, provinces and the federal government both do environmental assessments. Evidence is reviewed to ensure that a particular development is not, in fact, likely to harm the environment.

A more flexible federal health-care framework could – at least initially – include additional safeguards. Private-pay options might initially be limited to certain kinds of procedures or operations such as diagnostics, hip replacements, and other such elective surgeries.

It is not an exaggeration to say that the rigidity of the current health-care system is having a significant effect on some citizens’ quality of life and, in some cases, even life itself. We can now proceed in a way that is evidence-based and reconciles different value systems.

The current stifling of debate and policy innovation is causing deadly consequences for Canadians. We can do much, much better for everyone in need.

Bryan Schwartz is a professor of law at the University of Manitoba.

AHS Extends Closure of Tofield Emergency Department

IMPORTANT!

Alberta Health Services

Submitted

The Tofield Health Centre Emergency Department, (ED) will remain temporarily closed overnights until March 2, 2023 due to staffing challenges.

The ED will continue to be closed from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. seven days a week, and will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Patients presenting to the ED during the hours of closure will be referred to emergency departments in surrounding communities or to the local medical clinic for follow-up with a family physician, as appropriate. EMS will divert patients to facilities in Camrose or Viking for emergency care, as needed.

Residents are reminded to call Health

Link at 811, which is available 24/7, for non-emergency, health-related questions.

Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency.

AHS is grateful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff and would like to thank the community for its patience and understanding during this time.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

emailutilities@vegreville.com

Tofield Health Centre. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

County of Minburn Resident Wants Safety Concerns Addressed Before Tragedy Happens

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

A County of Minburn resident is hoping safety concerns at the intersection of Highway 881 and Highway 619 are addressed before a tragedy happens.

Ron Bourgeault, who farms a quarter section near Buffalo Coulee, said there have been numerous accidents at that location and wants Alberta Transportation to remedy the situation. “It’s been treacherous since they built it. I’ve towed vehicles every which way from there over the last 40 years.”

All types of vehicles, including cattle liners and grain trucks that he has pulled out of the ditch and up the hill. Because there is a 90 degree turn, it makes navigating even more chal-

LAND FOR SALE BY TENDER

VENDOR:

1.(2022)

LOCATION: County of Lamont, West of Andrew

POSSESSION: March 31 / 2023

MINIMUM BID: 1. $520000.00

2. $575000.00

CONTACT: Century 21 Alta, 780-632-7700 or Gus Borzel 780-603-7969. 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 at:

Century 21 Alta

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

ATTENTION: Gus Borzel 780-603-7969

Tenders must be received no later than 2:00 pm on March 9, 2023

lenging. Inclement weather has also played a factor in some of the accidents.

“Numerous ones, (accidents) could have been casualties. But we’re just lucky it hasn’t happened. I don’t know if they’re waiting for one or not, but I’ve pulled semi’s out of there and pulled them up the hill, but it’s dangerous.”

The guard rail has been taken out several times, including the evening of Jan. 12. In response to that barricades were put up. Bourgeault said they moved a flashing light to the top the hill, and while that was an improvement, the flashing light hasn’t been working at night time because it’s solar powered.

He said there is a large oilfield site nearby and said the flashing light, along with street lights could be powered. The power pole is less than quarter mile away, so could they could trench underground to have power for street lights.”

Mike Fundytus, Director of Protective Services for the County of Minburn told council during a report on Jan. 16 that there have been six accidents since November at the intersection which is located 12 miles south of Mannville.

Norm De Wet, Director of Operations for the County of Minburn, said Alberta Transportation has agreed to review the request for street lights at that intersection.

CAREER

POSITION DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS:

J. R. Robson School requires a full-time Administrative Assistant. Applicants must have a minimum of a Certificate or Diploma in O ffice Administration from an accredited college.

For more information, please check out full listing at www.btps.ca under the career tab.

CLOSING DATE: Until a suitable candidate is selected.

Buffalo Trail Public Schools is pleased to accept all qualified applications, but only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. The successful applicant will be required to submit a current Criminal Record Check.

Inset: Accident on Jan. 12.

Main Photo: Intersection facing west showing barricades which were recently placed at the intersection. (Joey Zafziger/Submitted Photos)

A Special Valentine’s Day on a Budget

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

They say the best things in life are free and this could especially apply to treating your spouse or partner to a special day for Valentine’s Day. The number one concept to remember is all most people want to be loved and appreciated. Here are some suggestions:

• Wr ite a love note saying all the special memories you had with your significant other and what makes them special to you.

Life is All About Love

An original poem by Rosanne Fortier

Love should be for all mankind

It shouldn’t have to cost a dime

Love can be about a kind word

This could help someone open a door

Love is helping someone reach their full potential

It is not about destructive criticism

Or looking down on your fellowman.

With your significant other, love is not just about wine, candlelight or roses

It is about helping each other through the rough times in life

Love is mainly about putting others first

Except when you will make your health worst

This Valentine’s Day, please be kind

Remember, love doesn’t have to cost a dime

• Think of your song as a couple and your favorite songs you heard together and make a playlist of this to listen to on Valentine’s Day.

• Cook your favorite dishes together.

• Take a free class in person or online.

• Look at old photos or videos together which show some of your finest memories.

• Make a card for your special someone.

• Ar range the time to do your favorite activity together.

• Have a scavenger hunt where you place little packages of treats at different places in your home or at the places in town where you had your best times together. Another suggestion for this is to have notes where you write that you will pick up

Summer Youth Employment

something special for them or do an errand later for them.

• Go for a walk together.

• Treat them to a great meal at one of the fast food restaurants in town.

• Make cupcakes or desserts with your partner.

Employment Opportunity

The successful applicant will have excellent people and organizational skills. Hours are flexible. Sales/Customer Service experience an asset, on going training provided.

If you are interested in working in a fast paced environment with a great group of people, please apply with a resume and references to:

Protect Yourself From Scammers

Government of Alberta

Submitted

Albertans should use caution if they receive a text message claiming to be from government about affordability payments.

Alberta’s government has received reports of text messages attempting to defraud unsuspecting Albertans, including seniors and families who may be eligible for targeted relief payments. In one scam text, people are asked to click on a link to register for automatic bank payments.

The Government of Alberta will never text you or

make unsolicited calls to ask you for your personal information.

“Under no circumstance would Alberta’s government send emails or texts requesting information for the affordability program. Users should never click on links or provide personal or banking information to text messages or emails,” stated Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation.

A secure, online application portal for affordability payments was launched by the government on Jan. 18. Families with household incomes below $180,000 are eligible to receive $100 per month for six months for each dependent child under 18. Seniors 65 or older who have household incomes below $180,000 and do not receive the Alberta Seniors Benefit can also apply for monthly payments.

Anyone who cannot apply online can apply in person through any registry agent or Alberta Supports Centre.

Albertans who receive benefits through Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), Income Support or the Alberta Seniors Benefit, or services through the Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) program, are already registered for the program and will automatically receive payments.

• Albertans are encouraged to apply for or check the status of their Affordability Payments by logging on to

the portal.

• If you are ever uncertain or think you’ve been the target of a phishing scam, report concerns to the police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

• Tip sheets and other resources to prevent identity theft and consumer-related scams can be found on alberta.ca on the Consumer and Business tips page.

• For help with affordability payment applications, Albertans can:

- Call the verified account support line at 1-844643-2789.

- Call the Affordability Action Plan Information Line at 1-844-644-9955.

- Visit any registry agent or Alberta Supports Centre in person to receive support in 50 locations and in more than 100 languages at no charge. During the application period, Alberta Supports is providing extended hours from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays.

• As with all online accounts, Albertans should use strong passwords and not share their password with anyone else. Tips on how to create a strong password are available on the application site.

• Additional information, including a how-to video and answers to questions, is available online.

Alberta RCMP Submitted

With the cold winter temperatures, the Alberta RCMP and our partners in law enforcement are reminding everyone to ensure their vehicle is never unattended or unlocked with keys nearby or in the ignition. Approximately 50% of stolen vehicles in Alberta are stolen while idling and these thefts are far more prevalent in the cold winter months. Vehicles can be stolen in seconds by thieves lying in wait. Often times, thieves will look for people who start their vehicles and then leave them unattended as they return in their houses or into a store.

To help keep your property safe, Alberta police services are taking action through Operation Cold Start from January 30 to February 3. This is the second year this initiative has been implemented with partnering police agencies across Alberta.

The goal of Operation Cold Start is to educate Albertans and work with the public to reduce auto theft, ultimately by making it tougher on would be thieves. The initiative will see police officers across the province patrolling for unattended idling vehicles to determine if they are locked and/or have the keys in the ignition. Officers will work to educate owners on the various ways they may keep their property safe, but we can’t do it alone and it is critical that the public help in preventing these crimes of opportunity.

“Alberta has the highest per capita auto theft rate in the country, and approximately 25 percent of those vehicles are stolen while idling with the keys left in the vehicle,” said RCMP Superintendent Mike McCauley of the Community Safety and Wellbeing Branch. “This drives

Citizens’ Opinions On How to Prevent Crime

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

When I asked citizens from Vegreville and Area what they felt should be done to prevent theft and property crimes I received the following responses.

Michelle Ardriashyk said, “It’s usually linked to socio-economic status of individuals. So, better education, employment and income will tend to lower the crime rate.”

Cxene Brooks mentioned, “Look deeply into the systemic reasons crime is taking place in the community and attend town council meetings to voice your concerns. Support local initiatives like Neighbourhood Watch to deter criminals.

Support organizations that help folks with addiction and homelessness. Donate your time volunteering in a soup kitchen to connect on a human level with folks with way less than you. Have a coat drive to help folks get warm gear. Get the seniors to knit warm toques and scarves and mitts to help keep people warm. Everyone has it within themselves something to offer that will elevate others who need help.

If you want a paradise, you have to start in your backyard.”

Mary Finch said, “Write to the federal government to make stricter sentences and laws. Provincial judges have their hands tied to weak sentences and shortage of rooms in penitentiaries. Federal or provincial needs to build more jails instead of new colosseums or bike

paths.”

Nicole Yarochuk said being poor can make theft happen more. “But we can prevent people from being poor by stop giving money to every other country but our own. Stop taxing families into needing government funding and subsidies which are our money anyway. And stop killing our oil. I’ve heard time and time again how ours is the most environmentally sourced yet it’s always the black sheep. Even if tomorrow we all went electrical our infrastructure wouldn’t be able to support horse powering an electric vehicle. The cart was before the horse on that one.”

Mary McCauley said, “Get supports into our community that help address things like addiction, poverty and homelessness. Have community organizations like FCSS, Veg-Al Drugs Society, the Food Bank working together with the RCMP in addressing these issues instead of jailing individuals in need.”

Lana Syms replied, “More security cameras throughout the community, they’re more affordable than ever and easy to acquire and install. Thieves don’t like to be tracked by cameras. Subsidies for such purchases may be an incentive for those with lower incomes. Let it then be known that your community is prepared with such technology.”

Pitou Faford said, “Bulldoze over any house where the residents are caught with drugs. Property values will soar getting rid of this

crime.”

Antoinette Fortier added, “The best way to stop property crimes and theft is to start when children are little. Setting a moral example is very important. Children learn more from the actions of the adults around them than from their words. It is not unusual for children to steal small items from a store or to take another child’s toy. It is important to get the child to go back to the store and return the item and to return the toy or other item to the child. The child’s property should also be respected. They have a right not to let other children play with a toy and the child’s permission should be given before the children’s items are given away.”

up insurance rates for Albertans and these files take a great deal of time to investigate. This project will prevent some of these crimes during the project, and ideally thanks to the educational component of the project will change Albertan’s habits. It is a small investment tackling one of the root causes of this crime.”

We would like to offer Albertans some tips to help keep their vehicles safe:

- If possible, look into command start options as a means to warm your vehicle.

- Steering wheel locking devices are effective options that can help mitigate theft.

- When starting your car, or allowing the engine to warm up prior to driving, ensure that you are in the vehicle.

- Never leave valuable items like purses, wallets, keys or change in an unoccupied vehicle.

- Always place keys to vehicles in a safe place, out of plain sight and in a secure location.

- Lock vehicle doors all the time, even if you are parked in your driveway or garage at home.

- Never leave your vehicle unattended if it is running or the keys are in it.

Bubbly and Caring Rose Hook Celebrates Her 90th Birthday

“Rosalia, (Rose) Engenia was the second born child of John and Katherina Saskiw on February 3, 1933 in Stubno, Alberta. Rose was blessed with a baby brother, Anthony on February 6, 1937. Rose attended Lesnew School till 1944 when her family moved to a farm southwest of Vegreville where she continued and completed her schooling at Old Vegreville School.

She married Micheal Hook from Mundare Alberta. They resided on a farm five miles Southwest of Vegreville.

Mike worked for the Town of Vegreville at the Public Works Department and Rose started her first job at the Co-op store as a

cashier, then worked at the Central Wholesale Accounting Department and then went on to work at the Bank of Montreal where she remained for 33 years.

Mike and Rose became grandparents, enjoying all five of their grandsons; David, Darren, Dustin, Donovan Rattray and Tyrell Hook. Mike and Rose also both enjoyed traveling.

Both were truly blessed with 40 wonderful years together. They loved each other so much.

The family went through trying times with the passing away of Mike at 66 years of age on January 5, 1989 and then Rose’s brother, Anthony in June 1990.

Rose retired from the Bank of Montreal in October 1993, (33 years and three months), but this did not stop her from continuing to work. For 20 years, she took on janitorial duties with Marshall and Vicky Triska at the CPC Immigration Office and has also taken on janitorial duties at the Post Office, Lawyer’s Office and Vegreville Insurance Office and today is still continuing and assisting her son, Brain at the Post Office, Vegreville Insurance and the Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church.

With a winning smile and a willing hand, Rose has passionately devoted herself to the community where she has taken on many volunteer positions: Director of the Vegreville Agricultural Society

you sleep in a democracy...”

Derek Fox emceed this event where he read Rose Hook’s biography which was written by Rose’s children Brian Hook and Shirley Rattray.

Rose with many of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Rose spending time with her family and friends. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

greatest reward is seeing and spending time with her great grandchildren; Ryan, Rowan, Willow, Marlow, Peyton, Kipton, Maddox and Braxten Rattray and also with her new additions: Hayden, Baylee and Jack Ferris, Alyssa (Jesse), Shelby and Brenden Shapka and Pepito and Paulita Talamas-Benitez.

Her hallmark is her compassion, her humanitarianism, the love she shares with so many people and her ability to go over and beyond the call of duty.”

Denise Komick said Rose has been her neighbour for 44 years and has been a great inspiration in their neighbourhood.

“Rose is always willing to lend a hand. She always has so many words of wisdom.

As to her secret to longevity? Rose said, “To live one day at a time; no matter what happens, take it in stride and it will always work its way through.” Rose with her very recognizable smile.

for 33 years and Honourary Life Director for the last 17 years.

Member of the Ukrainian Women’s Association of Canada-St. Ol’ha Branch in Vegreville for 54 years. Member of the Vegreville Royal Purple Lodge #125 for the last 38 years. She has also been Secretary for the Spring Creek Cemetery Organization for many years.

Achievements that Rose has been awarded were:

For 2001-Senior Citizen of the Year, sponsored by the Vegreville Chamber of Commerce.

In 2005, the Alberta Centennial Award, honouring Outstanding Albertans. Family is so important to Rose. Her

This mee ng ill Elect Board Members and pdate the membership of significant ac i es and Board decisions since the Febr ar AGM. Agenda is a ailable at the Office

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TheFoodBankwillbeacceptingfooddonations at alllocations.Monetarydonationswillbe acceptedatthePancakeBreakfast.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

EIPS Next Step Outreach Program Delivers Broad Range of Options

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Elk Island Public Schools offers a broad range of programming options for students, and one popular option is the Next Step Outreach program which operates in Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan and Vegreville.

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Principal Barclay Spady said the program, which began in 1997 in Sherwood Park, has been highly successful because it offers “flexible and individualized” programs for students. Vegreville Next Step program has been in existence for many years and is a testament to the success of the program.

Tanyss Rogers said this is the 11th year she’s taught Next Step in Vegreville. This the second school year the program has been located at Vegreville Composite High School. This term she has between 70 and 80 students and is excited about the foods program that will be starting soon thanks to a grant the Community Association for Lasting Success, (CALS) recently received.

Rogers said students will be preparing and cooking food from simple recipes that can be easily incorporated into their daily lives, and see’s the many benefits of having the program.

This will also be the first year Next Step will be hosting an open house the evening of Feb. 13 that will give prospective students, parents and community members an opportunity to see the classroom and learn more about what they have to offer.

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Rogers is also hoping they will be able to hold their family meal again this year, which she feels is a great opportunity to gather people together and share in their successes.

Rogers said the biggest group of students at Next Step are referred from the high school because the courses they want to take or require does not fit into the regular schedule. In the past, Rogers said they’ve had hockey players from the Vipers as well as high school rodeo contestants who require flexible programming to fit into their own schedules attend. As well, they also have a high percentage of students who come from a home schooling background, added Rogers.

Spady said the classroom is like a “one room school house” where they can all take the courses they need together. Daily attendance and the times of day students take courses are not mandatory, and Spady said that is exactly what drives success for students, 68 percent of which are Grade 12 or returning Grade 12 students.

For example, students at Next Step provide input on their program from start to finish, such as designing their own attendance and work completion schedules in collaboration with staff so they have ample guidance and encouragement to reach their own educational goals.

Next Step Teacher Tanyss Rogers, left, and Family School Liaison Worker Carlin Adams. (Michelle Pinon/Photo)

Zhoda Community Centre Receives CFEP Grant

Zhoda Community Centre has two major fundraising events per year: Christmas Turkey Bingo, and the Easter Ham Bingo. With completion of the ceiling renovations, Zhoda looks forward to hosting spring and fall dances and other events. The hall is also available for rent and would be ideal for small weddings, reunions, anniversaries, meetings, etc.

Zhoda Community Centre

Submitted

Zhoda Community Centre is the recipient of a $15,137 matching grant from the Community Facility Enhancement Program. The grant will be used towards replacing the entire ceiling structure in the main hall. This will include removing the existing tiles, installing new support beams across the width of the room, and putting in new tiles, energy efficient lighting and fans.

The Zhoda Community Centre is centrally located between Mundare, Lamont and Vegreville on the Midway Road. Zhoda was established in 1926 and initially served as a school but then was converted to a hall. For many years, it was an active and thriving centre filling the needs in the area. Unfortunately, like so many rural community halls, it too eventually fell into disrepair.

In 2015, a new executive and board was formed to rebuild the membership and

revitalize this hall that is rich in history. The executive and members have dedicated countless hours of their time and effort in developing strategies for fundraising. Over the last couple of years, electrical was upgraded to meet building code, eaves troughs and soffits were replaced, a new deck and steps with railings was built, and a wheelchair ramp for accessibility was added . A new outdoor toilet facility has been installed and the entry area has been renovated.

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Jackie ArmstrongHomeniuk, left, presents certificate to Zhoda Community Centre Vice President Bernice Bilyk and President Bob Farris. (Michelle Pinon/ Photo)

Tributes

MEMORIAM

Jean Lemko

Tymchyshyn, Jack

In Loving Memory of Jack Tymchyshyn

August 4, 1936 – February 12, 2019

Our minds see you every day. But nothing is the same. We can’t touch you or kiss your cheek

Sweet memories we recall.

Sweet Jesus take this message to him up above

Until you come for us one by one

Until we meet again

Vichnaya Pamyat

Love Iris, Tony & Gina, Doug & Barb, & Families

April 11, 1936 - February 8, 2021

In our Hearts

We thought of you today.

But that is nothing new.

We thought about you yesterday.

And days before that too.

We think of you in silence.

We often speak your name.

Now all we have are memories.

And your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake.

With which we’ll never part.

God has you in his keeping.

We have you in our heart.

Deeply missed, and forever loved.

Jerrold & Anita, Sharon & Michael, Jamie.

Grandchildren & Great Grandchildren

CARD OF THANKS

FIRMANIUK

Tymchyshyn, Jack

In Loving Memory of Jack Tymchyshyn

August 4, 1936 – February 12, 2019

Memories

Death

I would like to thank everyone who was there for me and supported me during the end of life journey of my dear friend, Victor Firmaniuk. Thank you for the flowers, food, visits, phone calls, words of comfort and prayers. Special thanks to my friends and neighbours who were at my side during Vic’s final hours. Sincere thanks to the nursing staff for exceptional care. Thank you everyone for your compassion, care and love.

May God bless you and keep you in His care.

Pat Yackimec

OBITUARY OBITUARY

KULY, Lawrence

January 20, 1937 – February 7, 2023

On Tuesday, February 7, 2023, Lawrence Kuly of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 86 years. Lawrence is survived by his loving wife Jean; daughter Kelty (Cam) MacEachern; one brother William (Corinne) Kuly; two sisters Sylvia (Gord) Drysdale, and Zonia Ambrosie; two nieces Donna (Ken) Drysdale, and Lisa (Michael) Down; four nephews David (Jillian) Drysdale, Allan (Sandy) Ambrosie, Grant Ambrosie, and Dean (Joe) Kuly. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Rose Kuly; daughters Debbie (Harold) Brunelle and Lonnie Atchison; and brother-in-law Roger Ambrosie.

A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta with Basilian Fathers officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church or charity of one’s choice.

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

AUTUMN ROSE FUNERAL HOME LTD.

VEGREVILLE, 780-603-5800

HOLYK, Lorne Albert

September 17, 1956 – February 6, 2023

On Monday, February 6, 2023, Lorne Holyk of Vegreville, Alberta passed away at the age of 66 years. Lorne is survived by his loving family, his wife of 30 years, Shirley; daughter Janessa; brothers Gordon (Sharon), Dennis (Sherry), Edwin and Arlis (Sharmon); father-in-law Clifford Berry; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Lorne was predeceased by his parents William and Rose Holyk; motherin-law Louette Berry.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Vegreville, Alberta with Father Jim Nakonechny officiating. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Borschiw Social Guild c/o P.O. Box 1728, Vegreville, AB.,T9C 1S8.

To send condolences, please visit www.autumnrosefuneralhome.com

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

The Life and Times of Ryley Then and Now

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

There certainly have been a lot of changes and drama surrounding the embattled community in recent times with the departure of five CAO’s, several staff members and two council members in the Village of Ryley.

Love,

HOOK, Winnie

November 13, 1920 - February 9, 2009

In loving memory of our dear mother and grandmother, Winnie Hook

Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, Still loved, still missed, and very dear. Always a smile, instead of a frown, Always a hand, when one is down, Always true, thoughtful and kind, Wonderful memories she left behind. Softly the leaves of memory fall.

Gently we gather, treasure them all, Some may forget now that you are gone, We will remember no matter how long. We miss you Mom, You were one of a kind.

Always remembered and dearly missed, Albina, Daniel and Arthur

Dianna, Mark, Nathaniel & Travis and families

OBITUARY

MARY CHOBAN

On Monday January 29, 2023 Mary Choban (nee Kushniruk) of Two Hills, passed away at the age of 96 years.

Mary is survived by her loving daughter Belinda Choban, grandchildren Jade Choban of Tasmania, Australia and Nicholas Choban of Calgary, great grandchildren Layla and Faith Jones of Tasmania, Australia, brothers Nick Kushniruk (Vickie) and John Kushniruk (Mary), sister Rose Oneschuk (John d.), sister in-laws Olga Hnatiuk (Alex d.) and Effie Bossak (Eugene), brother in-law Orest Choban (Elsie) and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Mary was predeceased by her loving husband Nicholas Choban, son Benny Choban, parents D’Metro and Annie (Bombak) Kushniruk, brother Mike Kushniruk, sister in-laws Stephanie Gorgichuk (John d.) and Jennie Arychuk (Eugene d.), brother in-laws Mike Choban, George Choban (Ann d.) and Steve Choban and in-laws

William and Mary (Ruptash) Choban.

A memorial service was held on February 6, 2023 at 11 AM at the Ukrainian Greek Orthodox Church of St. Mary - Szypenitz District, a small country church located near Two Hills.

If friends so desire, memorial donations can be made directly to this Church.

A newspaper article that was posted on The Politics of Ryley Facebook page has a few members wondering if history will repeat itself. That comment was in reference to an article that was published in the Ryley Times on February 8, 1923.

The headline stated: “All Members of Council Resign. Another election will be called by the Minister of Municipal Affairs shortly.”

The lead paragraph in the article stated, “Today, Ryley is without a council. At the regular session of the town fathers on Tuesday evening, the two remaining members , J.L. Hay and E.P. Mehus tendered their resignations. Mrs. C.H. McPherson tendered her resignation earlier in the week. Therefore the affairs of the town are in the hands of the minister of municipal affairs until after another election which will probably take place at an early date.”

A subsequent article in the Ryley Times later that year began by asking the question: What is the year going to mean to Ryley?

The article went on to say, “If the citizens of Ryley are fairly well satisfied with present conditions, with the degree of progress record-

ed year from year, and the prevailing state of affairs in social and business circles, then things will continue much as they are and 1924 will be very largely a repetition of 1923.

But if Ryley’s citizens are not satisfied and are prepared to lay aside petty prejudices and discard sectional issues in favour of a broader view and unitedly devote their energies to a forward all-Ryley movement, then 1924 will mean much for this town than any previous year in its history.”

Several Ryley residents in attendance at the Jan. 20, 2023 special council meeting called Mayor Nik Lee a “total and utter disgrace” and told him to resign. The meeting was called without public notice specifically for the purpose of appointing an interim CAO. That order of business was not completed and Lee said the special meeting would have to be rescheduled before walking out of the meeting with Deputy Mayor Nola Wood Herrick.

Newly elected Councillor Lyndie Nickel made a motion at that special meeting to have Councillor Brian Ducherer elected Mayor. That also did not happen because Mayor Lee said the appointment of Mayor has to be done at an organizational meeting that would be held on Feb. 21.

Since that Jan. 20 meeting, Councillor Ducherer, along with Councillor Lyndie Nickel and Councillor Sheldon Reid have all requested Lee to hold a special meeting , which they stated has to be called 14 days from the time of notification.

An online event posted by Betty Ryder and The Politics of Ryley stated that a Recall Petition representative will file a Recall Notice on April 18 at 9 am. “Then signatures must be collected within 60 days.

A team is being assembled to go door to door in Ryley before April 18 to provide information and prepare lists. The Team will come to your door for signature after April 18.”

Messy Art with Tie-Dyeing and Painting

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Messy Art is a program at Kalyna Family Resource Network (KFRN) that gave 12 kids from 6-12 years of age a chance to be creative without worrying about making a mess on February 1.

Hub Coordinator for KFRN Tammy Iftody said, “Messy Art days is a monthly program which provides an opportunity to explore our creative side and

build social connections outside of school.

The Feb. 1 session offered two activities: tie-dyeing and painting on canvas. The kids experimented with colour combinations and bonded with each other as we passed the paints around the table.

This event was also wonderfully bilingual, with directions (and colours) offered in English and Ukrainian.”

Above: Veronkia Perez.

Right: L-R: Zarya Perez, Hub Coordinator for KFRN Tammy Iftody and Nykita Musiowsky. (Rosanne Fortier/Photos)

Fun Family Literacy Day Event

Rosanne Fortier News Correspondent

Around 20 children and 12 families attended the Family Literacy Day event at Vegreville Centennial Library on January 27. This event included activity stations, door prizes and a special showing of the short film Gruffalo.

Community Association for Lasting Success, (CALS) Family Literacy Coordinator Erika Trufyn said, “Family Literacy Day is celebrated to bring awareness of the importance of engaging in literacy or learning activities as a family. It builds the foundation for lifelong learning. By engaging in learning activities daily, it not only builds a child’s skills but also strengthens the adult’s as well. Literacy is not just found within books, it’s all around us every day. You can provide simple literacy activities by playing games, playing cards, baking, cooking, and creating a family journal.

This year CALS partnered with the Vegreville Centennial Library, Kalyna Family Resource Network and VegMin Learning Society to provide Family Literacy Day. Each orga-

L-R: Eli Litwin, Sam Litwin, and Adelynn MacLean take part in the activities. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

For Sale or Rent

nization highlighted a favorite children’s author and brought learning beyond just the book. Families had the opportunity to engage in various activities that helped build and strengthen skills. These activities highlighted the pillars of child development: social, emotional, physical health and wellbeing, cognitive, lan-

guage and communication that are crucial to child development. It also gave parents ideas on how to expand their child’s learning. We are excited to come together as a community once again and re-establish those connections that we have not been able to have in the previous years.”

PUBLIC LAND FOR SALE

(Municipal

Notice is hereby given that, under the provisions of the Municipal Government Act, the County of Two Hills No. 21 will offer for sale, by public auction, at the County Office, Two Hills, Alberta, on Friday, February 24th, 2023 at 11:00 a.m., the following lands:

LOTS FOR SALE

Each parcel will be offered for sale subject to a reserve bid and to the reservations and conditions contained in the existing Certificate of Title.

This land is being offered for sale on an “as is, where is” basis and County of Two Hills No. 21 makes no representation and gives no warranty whatsoever as to the adequacy of services, soil conditions, land use districting, building and development conditions, absence or presence of environmental contamination, or the developability of the subject land for any intended use by the purchaser.

The County of Two Hills No. 21 may, after the public auction, become the owner of any parcel of land that is not sold at the public auction.

Terms: Cash, bank draft or certified cheque payable to the County of Two Hills No. 21. G.S.T. may be applicable on lands sold at the Public Auction.

Redemption may be affected by payment of all arrears of taxes and costs at any time prior to the sale.

Dated at Two Hills, Alberta, February 6, 2023

Sally Dary, C.A.O.

The listed lots are available for purchase. Each lot has a reserved price and are sold in an “as is condition’. Sealed bids for any or all of the lots will be accepted by 4:00:00 PM on Monday February 13, 2023. For details of each lot and the conditions of purchase, contact:

Gary Buchanan, RPP, Development Officer, 780 657 3358 gbuchanan@thcounty.ab.ca, County of Two Hills No. 21, Box 428, TWO HILLS, Alberta, T0B 4K0

sq.ft. of retail space on main floor

- 50 St. Mainstreet Vegreville

Children with their guardians watching a movie. (Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

Tofield Titans U-7 Hockey Teams Host Tournament

Vipers Slither into Second Place in the Standings

Vipers General Manager Bryan Brown said they just came off a 16 game winning streak and lost two games in overtime, one against the Cold Lake Aeros and then the Hinton Timberwolves. On Feb. 4 they got back on track by edging out the Aeros 4-3.

“We are sitting in second place right now, four points out of first. We definitely have a shot at first place yet. We just need to beat Hinton a couple of more times,” noted Brown. Between March 28 and April 1 the team will be vying for the Champions Cup in Hinton, and will be continuing to work hard on and off the ice to earn the coveted title.

Speaking to the team’s success to date, Brown believes it’s the quality of players that he has brought to the club, coupled with the coaching that has made

a tremendous difference in the team’s overall performance and impressive record.

“We definitely have some hurdles still ahead of us, but I think we will gel more yet,” added Brown, who clearly has his eye on the prize.

Correction

In a feature article last week entitled “Haraold Austin’s Life Rocks with Good Curling Times” Multiple errors occurred. The story was about Howard Austin, not Harold Austin as it was written in the article, We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. The News Advertiser

Fans of the youngest members of the Tofield Titans showed their support for both teams during their home tournament on Feb. 4 and 5. Members of Titans Team 2 played against Strathcona, (black and yellow jerseys) and Titans Team 1 played against Sherwood Park, (turquoise jerseys) Saturday afternoon. Heart and Hustle and Most Valuable Player awards were handed out at the end of each game. (Michelle Pinon/Photos)

Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

The Vegreville Vipers Jr. A hockey team have an impressive 25 wins, six losses and two ties on the season with 15 games remaining on the schedule.

Vegreville Vipers in action against the Hinton Timberwolves on Feb. 3. (Jem’s Snapshots/Submitted Photo)